Six of West Ham United Academy's young talents kicked off their international duties across Tuesday and Wednesday's action, including Gabriel Caliste who made his senior debut for Mauritius.
On Tuesday, Caliste made his senior debut for Mauritius as they held India to a 0-0 draw in the opening match of the Inter-Continental Cup 2024. An energetic figure in the midfield, the 17-year-old covered plenty of ground to cut out India’s supply line down the centre. Throughout his 62-minute stint on the field, he moved the ball well making key passes enabling his side to launch counter attacks.
In home nations action, the Hammers were the most represented team in England U17s’ starting eleven in their clash against Mexico on Wednesday afternoon, the first of three internationals at their camp in Germany. First-year scholars Lanre Awesu, Chinaza Nwosu and Andre Dike all featured in Neil Ryan’s Young Lions squad from the outset. Between the sticks, Awesu kept a clean sheet, while Nwosu and Dike contributed to a commanding 5-0 victory. Dike picked up where he left off, a goal in his last appearance for England at U16 level, the young winger was on the scoresheet again, earning his side a penalty and duly converting their second of three spot kicks.
In U19s action, Finlay Herrick started in goal as England drew 2-2 with Italy at the Stadium Nedelišće in Croatia. Teammate Josh Ajala, in excellent form for West Ham United in the Premier League 2, was introduced to the action with half-an-hour to go. Despite falling two goals behind, Will Antwi’s Young Lions rallied to secure a draw. Lewis Orford, who recently extended his contract with West Ham United, was originally selected for the U19s but was forced to withdraw due to injury.
Meanwhile, Airidas Golambeckis did not feature in England U18s' opening game at the Lafarge Foot Avenir Tournament, where they were held to a 2-2 draw in Limoges.
