Fa Youth Cup

U18s learn FA Youth Cup semi-final opponents

West Ham United U18s will host either Preston North End or Southampton at home in the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup. 

The tie sees Kevin Keen’s youngsters feature in the last four of the prestigious competition for the first time in 24 years, when Joe Cole and Michael Carrick inspired a 9-0 aggregate win over Coventry City in the final.

The Irons are set for a first home tie in the competition this season, having won four away matches on their route to the semi-finals at Sheffield United (3-1), Burnley (1-0), Stoke City (4-1) and Ipswich Town (4-2 AET). 

Keen’s side have won 19 and lost just three of the 22 matches they have contested in all competitions so far this season and are also clear at the top of U18 Premier League South, so could secure an historic double if they can maintain their form. 

Preston and Southampton will meet in their quarter-final fixture on Thursday 2 March. The winners will make the trip to Arsenal, Manchester City or Oxford United in the final.

West Ham have won the FA Youth Cup on three occasions, lifting the trophy in 1963, 1981 and 1999.  

The location, date, time and ticket details for the semi-final tie will be confirmed in due course.

 

Academy