West Ham United is delighted to announce that Academy defender Jethro Medine has signed his first professional contract with the Club.
Joined by his family, Medine marked the proud occasion at Chadwell Heath Training Ground, the venue he has grown up at, having joined the Club at the U9 age group.
“It’s such a proud moment for me and my family,” he said. “It’s a step in the right direction, but although it’s a great achievement, I haven’t made it yet. I want to push for the U21s before the end of the season, so the work continues.”
Football runs in the Medine family, with Jethro’s oldest brother Mbiyeye having played for Cambridge United, while his other older brother Jeremiah progressed through the ranks at Plymouth Argyle and Charlton Athletic, following a stint at West Ham United. Unsurprisingly, Jethro credits his upbringing and family for shaping his journey.
“I’ve learned almost everything I know from my brothers, from playing football together,” he shared. “My family has played a huge role in getting me to where I am today. Most importantly, mum and dad, driving us all to training. They’ve always been there for me, even at my away games no matter how far. Thanks also to my cousin Nathan, who has played a massive part.”
In his second year as a scholar, Medine has played every minute of the U18s’ campaign so far. An excellent one-on-one defender, the 17-year-old is an energetic right-back who provides just as much going forward as he does in defence.
Medine continued: “I’ve been enjoying the responsibility of playing more minutes in my second year as a scholar. I always try and give everything I can for the team. I’m very grateful for all the minutes I’m getting in the U18s, it’s great for my development.”
West Ham United Academy Manager Kenny Brown praised Medine’s progression as he becomes the latest scholar to sign professional terms with the Hammers.
“It’s very pleasing to see Jethro, who’s come all the way through the ranks with us, sign his first professional contract here,” Brown said. “The big thing for him is his consistency. He’s nailed down the right-back position with our U18s, and his performances have been rewarded with international recognition for England U17s. The feedback we’ve received has always been positive.
“He’s got plenty to develop, but I’m confident that in the second half of the season, he’ll be knocking on the door of the U21s, getting ready for his move to Rush Green next year. You know what you’re going to get with Jethro. Last year, as a first-year scholar, he got a lot of minutes with the U18s and developed quickly. We’re seeing the benefits of that now. He’s added more offensive elements to his game to complement his one-on-one defending. We’re all excited to see where we can take him.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Jethro on signing his first professional contract and wish him every success in Claret and Blue.
