Ollie Scarles
Credit: Imago
Carla Devine
Tue 20 May 2025 15:10, UK
Graham Potter will have to be creative in West Ham’s summer transfer business.
There is no doubt that the Hammers need to add to their squad throughout the summer transfer window, with Potter failing to kick on since his arrival at the London Stadium.
However, with PSR restrictions having their part to play, it may not be the smoothest of windows, with some offloading needed to be done before too much money can be spent.
David Sullivan is expected to work closely with the boss throughout the window, but he will not be afraid to say no to transfers he deems too expensive.
Luckily for the Irons, there is some great talent in the youth set-up that could be utilised, Ollie Scarles being a core example of that this season.
West Ham
Potter has work to do at West Ham. (Credit: Imago)
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Scarles announcement made by West Ham
Scarles had a somewhat slow start to this season, settling for plenty of time on the bench under Julen Lopetegui.
Although the 19-year-old must have been enjoying the first-team set-up, there is always a worry that a lack of game time during a developmental stage can be stagnating to a career.
However, Scarles has seen his responsibility increase since Potter’s arrival in East London and has been a regular part of the starting line-up in the second half of the season.
The left-back has made 14 Premier League appearances, having the chance to play against opponents like Mohamed Salah, giving him plenty of opportunity to develop.
With Potter needing reinforcements elsewhere this summer, it is likely that the youngster will see his role continue to increase, with the chance of becoming a solid first-team player at West Ham.
His achievements this term have been recognised too, with West Ham announcing that the 19-year-old has been awarded the Mark Noble Young Hammer of the Year award.
Lewis Orford buzzing from Scarles development
Potter is not afraid to use the young talent in his squad, as long as those players are ready to perform when called upon.
With resources potentially having to be prioritised this summer too, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the boss turn to the youth academy once more and analyse the talent that is available.
With the work the 50-year-old has done previously, it’s an exciting time to be a youngster in East London and Scarles’ development highlights that.
Lewis Orford, also 19, is one man who has been particularly impressive for the youth side, having captained England’s under-19 squad and claiming a Premier League 2 player of the month prize.
Appearances Goals Assists
19 4 8
Orford’s Premier League 2 form this season.
The midfielder has been given two appearances in the Premier League this season from the bench, having also trained with the squad, meaning he is certainly on Potter’s radar.
Watching Scarles’ development being topped off with an award at West Ham has to serve as a boost for Orford to go and show his best levels during pre-season and prove to his manager why he is the next man ready for the step up.
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