Tomkins impressing at Upton Park

 

Young central defender James Tomkins is gaining a great reputation around Upton Park after recovering from a serious shoulder injury earlier this season.

James has been making quite an impact in the youth and reserve teams - and has even been training with the first team on occasion.

"I really enjoy training with the firs team," he said. "You get experience from the pros they always help and give you good advice.

"It's been a major disappointment for me being out for four months. But it's feeling ok now. I feel stronger with every game.

"It was a very painful injury. I dislocated my shoulder at Upton Park against Arsenal reserves. But you do have these setbacks in football and you have to bounce back."

"The medical staff were behind me all the way. They didn't rush me back. I've had a few injuries before, it's the worst part of football but you have to be patient and bounce back."

James is looking forward to continuing to build his reputation by working hard and integrating himself at all levels for West Ham United.

"I've been playing for the youth team and the reserves. Browny made me captain of the reserves the other week when there were loads of first teamers playing. I was really proud and it was a great experience.

"And the youths are doing really well. Hopefully next season I won't have the sort of injuries I've had this year. I'm looking forward to playing for the youths and the reserves and seeing what happens from there." 

See the full interview with James on WHUTV by clicking here