Midfielder Makasi signs new contract

The 20-year-old has capped a great season with a new one-year contract
West Ham United are delighted to announce that all-action midfielder Moses Makasi has signed a new contract with the club.

The 20-year-old midfielder played a crucial part in the Development Squad's truimphant U21 Premier League Cup success, and his efforts have been rewarded with a new one-year deal.

In total this season, Makasi made 13 starts for the Dev Squad as well as a further six appearances, scoring twice.

Speaking after signing his new deal, a delighted Makasi said: “I’m very happy, it hasn’t all been easy and a lot of hard work has gone into it. Hard work will always get you far in life so hopefully I can push myself and make it to the first team squad.

“I can feel that I’ve improved. At the start of the season I didn’t think I was where I needed to be but now I feel a lot closer to being a first team player, obviously there’s still a long way to go.”

Looking back at what has been a highly productive campaign for the south Londoner, the midfielder summarised his season, saying: “The 21s have been flying this year, the start of this season we struggled to win games.

“I was out on loan at the time, it was a very good experience but also a reality check, because it made me realise I wanted to be at a Premier League club. I came back, worked hard and got a new contract, so I’m happy.

 “I’d like to thank all my coaches, particularly Liam Manning; he’s been there throughout for me, when I was at Chelmsford, helping me with my individual plan, doing my clips, everything.”

Having earned a further year at his beloved Hammers, Makasi knows he faces a crucial 12 months to prove himself worthy of a place in the first team.

Despite this season having just ended, he is already looking forward to trying to catch Slaven Bilic’s eye in pre-season.

He continued: “There’s a big pre-season coming up because that’s the chance to impress the manager.

“You’ve just got to work hard and the opportunities will come. Obviously the first team are doing well so it’s hard but you have to be ready in case the opportunities do come up.

“You never know what’s going to happen, players leave, injuries, there’s always opportunities, you just have to be ready to step up and take the chance.

“This is definitely the place to be with the new stadium just round the corner. The Academy is doing well and the first team are pushing for a top six finish so hopefully we get more talented players coming through.”