Fresh from signing a new three-year contract with his boyhood Club, Freddie Potts had even more reason to celebrate on Saturday as he played 90 minutes in West Ham United's 6-2 win over Perth Glory.
The Irons made the perfect start to their Unmissable Football Tour to Western Australia, hitting six goals in a free-flowing display against the A-League side.
Jarrod Bowen netted twice, Gianluca Scamacca scored a penalty, headers from Emerson and Divin Mubama found the net, while Dan Chesters forced an own goal from home defender Darryl Lachman within 65 seconds of kick-off.
It all added up to a comfortable and hugely entertaining evening as David Moyes’ men made it two wins from two at the start of pre-season. Potts was delighted to play his part and is hoping to contribute even more as the countdown to the new campaign continues.
“It was a tough game as Perth Glory were a good side who liked to play similar to how we like to play so it was a good test,” said the 19-year-old, who manager Moyes revealed could go out on loan to gain more senior experience this season.
“It’s 90 minutes for a few of us, which was important as it’s the first 90 that we’ve had in pre-season.
“I’m enjoying my football. I’m a young player trying to break into the first team and I’m enjoying [the challenge].”
Nearly 25,000 fans made their way to Optus Stadium to see the Hammers take on Glory, with many more expected to cheer on the east Londoners when they face Tottenham Hotspur at the same venue on Tuesday.
Midfielder Potts was blown away by the support and cannot wait for the London derby with a difference in midweek, for which tickets are available by clicking here.
“It’s unbelievable to play in front of this many West Ham fans in Australia,” he added. “We’ve heard that they’ve come from all over Australia and it’s incredible. It was really, really good to play in front of the Australian fans.
“Tottenham is a rivalry and no matter that it’s a friendly, we want to win. As a West Ham fan myself we always want the game against Tottenham, Arsenal, all the London teams.
“It will be a tough game, but one we are looking forward to playing in front of even more fans inside this stadium.”
