Grady Diangana is relishing the U18's game with Arsenal at Little Heath
After his hat-trick scoring heroics last weekend, explosive winger is looking forward to facing Arsenal’s U18s at Little Heath on Saturday 28 November.
The 17-year-old flair player has been in outstanding form for the young Hammers this season, netting six times in eleven starts.
Reflecting on his man-of-the-match display last weekend, he said: “I was very happy to score a hat-trick last weekend, but obviously it was disappointing to lose to Norwich, that’s the main thing.
“I think my first goal was definitely the best, I’ve scored a few goals so far which I’m happy with. I haven’t set myself a target but I’d like to score as many as possible, and create as many as possible too.”
Diangana’s creative influence has had a notable impact on the U18s this season who after a difficult start, have won an impressive eight matches out of the last 12 games.
Despite Diangana’s best efforts, the Hammers slipped to a 4-3 defeat to Norwich City thanks to a last minute winner. This weekend Steve Potts’ side will be looking to bounce back against a skilful Arsenal side.
Looking ahead to the London derby, Diangana continued: “Arsenal are always a passing side, they like to dominate possession, they’re usually a very good side and hard to beat.
“I think everyone has been good this season, which is why we’ve been doing so well lately. We’re all in good form, working hard for each other and it’s paying off.
“It’s good to see younger players get given opportunities, it’s very important.
“I really enjoy working with Steve and Mark, it’s a lot of fun. Obviously, it’s serious when it has to be and they push you to be the best you can be but I really enjoy working with them.
“A top four finish is the aim, and then hopefully we can do well in the next phase. I’m confident in myself, my teammates and the staff that that is something we can achieve.”
As for Diangana himself, the teenager is hoping to maintain his sparkling form for the rest of the campaign and try and force his way into the U21 side.
“I’ve been quite consistent this season, I’m pleased about that because that’s something I’ve been working on.
“I’ve played a couple of times for the U21s this season, the aim is definitely to play more regularly for them and try and impress at that level.
“I’d describe myself as a skillful, attack-minded and a creative player, I like to make things happen. I really like Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini, away from West Ham I really like Philippe Coutinho at Liverpool too.”
The West Ham United U18s host Arsenal at Little Heath on Saturday 28 November at Little Heath. Kick off is 11am, FREE admission for all fans.
The 17-year-old flair player has been in outstanding form for the young Hammers this season, netting six times in eleven starts.
Reflecting on his man-of-the-match display last weekend, he said: “I was very happy to score a hat-trick last weekend, but obviously it was disappointing to lose to Norwich, that’s the main thing.
“I think my first goal was definitely the best, I’ve scored a few goals so far which I’m happy with. I haven’t set myself a target but I’d like to score as many as possible, and create as many as possible too.”
Diangana’s creative influence has had a notable impact on the U18s this season who after a difficult start, have won an impressive eight matches out of the last 12 games.
Despite Diangana’s best efforts, the Hammers slipped to a 4-3 defeat to Norwich City thanks to a last minute winner. This weekend Steve Potts’ side will be looking to bounce back against a skilful Arsenal side.
Looking ahead to the London derby, Diangana continued: “Arsenal are always a passing side, they like to dominate possession, they’re usually a very good side and hard to beat.
“I think everyone has been good this season, which is why we’ve been doing so well lately. We’re all in good form, working hard for each other and it’s paying off.
“It’s good to see younger players get given opportunities, it’s very important.
“I really enjoy working with Steve and Mark, it’s a lot of fun. Obviously, it’s serious when it has to be and they push you to be the best you can be but I really enjoy working with them.
“A top four finish is the aim, and then hopefully we can do well in the next phase. I’m confident in myself, my teammates and the staff that that is something we can achieve.”
As for Diangana himself, the teenager is hoping to maintain his sparkling form for the rest of the campaign and try and force his way into the U21 side.
“I’ve been quite consistent this season, I’m pleased about that because that’s something I’ve been working on.
“I’ve played a couple of times for the U21s this season, the aim is definitely to play more regularly for them and try and impress at that level.
“I’d describe myself as a skillful, attack-minded and a creative player, I like to make things happen. I really like Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini, away from West Ham I really like Philippe Coutinho at Liverpool too.”
The West Ham United U18s host Arsenal at Little Heath on Saturday 28 November at Little Heath. Kick off is 11am, FREE admission for all fans.