England’s under 21 campaign is looking a lot more successful than that of their senior team-mates: Lee Carsley’s four points in two games takes England to the brink of a quarter final.
But forget the result for a second, [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-issue-firm-no-chance-warning-over-50m-kudus-bids/) watchers would have found the time interesting owning to the appearance of a couple of West Ham linked youngsters.
**James McAtee** shone out as being a class above. The Manchester City attacking midfielder should have scored but looked everything you’d hope for a young up – and – coming international priced at £20 million. All in all, a very assured performance from the captain of the side: Wherever he does end up in the Premier League you just know he will be a rising star over the coming seasons.
Sitting behind him in the deeper number 6 position was Hammers’ reputed target **Hayden Hackney**. Difficult to tell much on one showing but looking sound defensively if a little tired into the second half, Middlesboro’s 22 year old Hackney did play one or two of the killer through passes he’s known for. (_Forward passing, Hammers.. remember that?)_
Fewer glimpses of attacking flair but very solid- it will be interesting to see how he influences the games to come. Jury still out but one to watch.
McAtee however is the one to cast covetous eyes over, along with, apparently, twenty odd-teams across Europe who have enquired about his availability.
If only.