West Ham United are pleased to confirm that highly-rated goalkeeper Marek Stech has signed a new contract that will take him up to summer 2013.
The Czech Republic youth international has been at the Boleyn Ground for two years and is tipped to be one of the next talented players to rise from the Academy ranks to the first-team squad. Stech, 18, came to prominence in the 2006 European Under-17 Championship when he helped his country to the final of the prestigious UEFA tournament. He underlined his potential last season with some strong displays for the reserves.
"I am really pleased with the new contract," Stech said. "I am looking forward to the season. I am so happy I have signed for five years. It is great for me and a good opportunity." The shot-stopper is hoping to emulate compatriot Petr Cech, who has established himself as one of the leading keepers in the game but knows he faces a tough challenge to challenge first-choice Robert Green. "The aim is to get in the first team. We have just started back training and I have to work hard and push the other goalkeepers."
Stech, who at 6'4 is still growing, had particular praise for Academy director Tony Carr and goalkeeping coach Ludek Miklosko, with the latter setting the clear example to follow as a former West Ham United favourite from the Czech Republic. "Tony is a great coach and he has given me some opportunities. That has been great and he is a good man. Ludo is unbelievable. He is a nice person and he helps me every day and explains what he wants. I dream of following him, hopefully. That is why I am here."
Although living away from his family, Stech has fully settled at the club. "I feel like I am at home. Everyone at the club is good to me and I love it here. The boys are great so I just love it. I never have any problems. It is great." He added that one thing spurring him on is the chance to play in front of a packed Boleyn Ground. "The fans mean so much for me. Every game I get goosebumps hearing them. They are unbelievable. I just want to play here for them and show what I can do."