Young forward Idris Kanu bagged a late penalty in the U21 win against Stoke
Development Squad striker Idris Kanu could not hide his joy after bagging a stoppage time winner in the 1-0 victory over Stoke City.
After a goalless 93 minutes, West Ham United were awarded a late penalty and substitute Kanu stepped up to send experienced goalkeeper Shay Given the wrong way.
But the 16-year-old, who was making just his second appearance for the U21s, said he always confident of putting away the spot-kick.
“It was a wonderful feeling,” said Kanu after his first goal at Development Squad level. “I said before the game I was going to get a goal, and I did.
“The keeper Shay Given was talking a bit, so it felt good to score against him. I was quite confident because I’m confident in my ability. I knew I was going to score.”
With an impact now made in Terry Westley’s squad, Kanu hopes he can continue to be selected as the side near their upcoming Barclays U21 Premier League Cup final.
“I want to play as many games left this season as possible. Hopefully I have done enough for Terry to pick me for the Cup final.
“I haven’t played at the [Boleyn] Ground so hopefully I can play there before the send off.”
After a goalless 93 minutes, West Ham United were awarded a late penalty and substitute Kanu stepped up to send experienced goalkeeper Shay Given the wrong way.
But the 16-year-old, who was making just his second appearance for the U21s, said he always confident of putting away the spot-kick.
“It was a wonderful feeling,” said Kanu after his first goal at Development Squad level. “I said before the game I was going to get a goal, and I did.
“The keeper Shay Given was talking a bit, so it felt good to score against him. I was quite confident because I’m confident in my ability. I knew I was going to score.”
With an impact now made in Terry Westley’s squad, Kanu hopes he can continue to be selected as the side near their upcoming Barclays U21 Premier League Cup final.
“I want to play as many games left this season as possible. Hopefully I have done enough for Terry to pick me for the Cup final.
“I haven’t played at the [Boleyn] Ground so hopefully I can play there before the send off.”