West Ham United is happy to announce the signing of goalkeeper Reece Byrne for the Club’s U21s development squad.
Following a successful trial at Rush Green Training Ground in August and September, Byrne has signed a contract until the end of the 2025/26 season, with an option to extend for a further year.
The 20-year-old Irishman began his career at Bohemians in his homeland before spending the past two seasons at Premier League side Newcastle United. Now, after recovering from a knee injury that affected his time at the Magpies, he will continue his career and development in east London.
“It’s an absolutely wonderful feeling,” said Byrne, who has been capped by his country at U19 level. “It's hard to put into words. I've had a tough time with injuries over the last few years, so to be given a chance at such a massive Club is something I’ll forever be grateful for. I can't wait to get started and kick on, hopefully, please God.
“To be back at a Club like West Ham, I’m lost for words. I’m quite emotional, because it means that extra bit more. I want it more than I did before. It’s almost like a second coming for me, because six months ago I didn’t know where I was going to be.
“It was a tough personal period, but to be given the trust and guidance from the Club here, to feel wanted, is really special and makes me feel good about myself.
“It’s been a really smooth process. The staff and the lads helped me settle in and feel comfortable from day one, even when I was on trial. I’ve got nothing but high praise for the staff, and especially Bill [Lepine], who’s taken me under his wing and given me a platform to impress.”
A tall goalkeeper with great reach and excellent distribution skills, Byrne will bolster the goalkeeping stable in the development squad, with Mason Terry, 21, and Finley Herrick, 19, currently on loan at National League clubs Braintree Town and Boreham Wood respectively.
Head of Academy Goalkeeping Billy Lepine, who has been working closely with him during his trial period, described Byrne as a talented ball-playing goalkeeper with a strong mentality who can have a positive influence on the younger members of the development squad.
“We're really impressed with his character,” said Lepine. “He’s got plenty of experience from the Irish national team and his spells at Bohemians and Newcastle.
“He’s had to show resilience after his injuries, but he’s recovered well and we’re pleased to have him in the group. Having a player who’s dealt with adversity and can share that perspective with the younger lads is very positive.
“As a goalkeeper, he’s clean and decisive with his feet. He can break lines with passes into midfield, he’s got a good range, and as a big lad he’s got excellent reach and the ability to make top saves.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Reece on signing his contract with the Club and wish him every success in Claret and Blue.
