Despite only turning 18 just before the start of the season, Dagenham native Tyron Akpata has already become a key figure for West Ham United’s development squad, playing every minute in all but one of their Premier League 2 matches.
The central midfielder has registered three assists in seven appearances, five of which ended in victories, to help Mark Robson’s side keep up with the pacesetters. They currently sit just three points behind leaders Manchester City, having won five and lost two of their seven league matches played.
For Akpata, it has been a learning experience, but one he has relished fully.
“I hadn’t played any competitive games for the U21s during my scholarship, so I thought the step up this year would be really tough,” the teenager reflected. “But I feel like I’ve taken it in my stride. The coaches and my teammates have made the transition easier for me.
“The workload is a lot more intense, the games are tougher, and the quality is higher. A lot of the players we face have already made their first-team debuts. At U18s level, you can get away with things you can’t at U21s level. The U21s programme is also a lot closer to the first team. We get to see what they’re doing and sometimes train with them, especially during international breaks.”
Partnering up with Lewis Orford in the heart of midfield, Akpata and his teammate have assisted over half of the Hammers’ goals in the league this season. A partnership which was forged in the 2022/23 season when, as first-year scholars, they helped West Ham secure the Premier League South and FA Youth Cup double.
“Playing with Lew is great because he’s so good on the ball,” the No4 confirmed. “You always know he’ll find a pass. We’ve developed a good understanding. If he pushes forward, I hold, and vice versa. We know each other’s movements, where we like to receive the ball. Off the pitch, the banter is good, and I think that translates onto the field. We’re allowed to play with freedom, which is great.”
Though still adjusting to life with the U21s, Akpata’s experience as a captain during his scholarship years has helped him adapt quickly and grow as both a leader and a player.
“Last season was brilliant for me,” he enthused. “Being given the responsibility of captaining the U18s helped shape me. In training and matches, you feel that pressure to get the best out of everyone. It made me show more of my character. That experience has definitely carried over to the U21s. I’m more vocal, I’m confident, and I have a good relationship with my coaches and teammates.”
Born in August 2006, Akpata is part of a unique group of Academy players who have defied the ‘Relative Age Effect’, a phenomenon where a year-group’s younger players’ opportunities are limited compared to their older, more developed peers. But rather than see this as a disadvantage, Akpata views it as a key part of his growth.
“Being one of the younger ones has actually helped my development. You have to be sharper, quicker on the ball, and rely more on technique. ‘Technique is king’ as Kev [Keen] used to say. I’m still working on my physicality with the coaches. We play a lot of senior opposition, and those games show you what it takes to compete at that level. I’m embracing the challenge, and I’m excited to keep improving.”
Off the pitch, Akpata’s work ethic extends to his studies. A standout student, he was the highest academic achiever in West Ham’s 2022–24 scholars cohort.
“Balancing studies with Academy football was tough,” he admitted. “Finishing training late and then having homework was a challenge. But signing my first professional contract this summer made it all worth it. Football is an incredible career, but you never know what could happen. Even if you have a great career, you still have the rest of your life ahead of you, so education is important. It teaches discipline, and I enjoyed the reward of doing well in both school and football.”
This blend of intelligence, leadership, and technical skill has made Akpata one of the development side’s key figures, and at just 18, the best is yet to come.
Any Questions
What was your favourite subject at school?
Business studies. It was my favourite because it included all aspects of life. Maths, there was a common-sense element involved, finances, accounting. It helped that I had a good teacher as well.
What is the best thing about living in London?
Being able to see my friends and family because they’re local to me.
What is the best goal you've ever seen live in person?
Dan Rigge’s goal against Derby [in an U18s Premier League Cup win in October 2023]. At Rush Green, he clips it and it just floats in over the goalkeeper. The technique was so clean. Watch it!
Name one aspect of your game you have been working on?
I’d say longer passing with both feet. Teams play higher lines at this level so that’s something I’ve been working on.
What is the one thing you can beat your teammates at?
Probably FIFA. There’s a lot of competition within the team, but I think I’m the best.
What was your best performance for West Ham?
Chelsea last season for the U18s. I felt free, felt good, and although we lost, my all-round game was top.
If you had to take two teammates on holiday with you, who would you take?
I’m taking Sean Moore, because he’s just a joker. And I’m bringing Sean Tarima too, a bit quieter but another really funny guy.
What is your favourite thing to do with your free time?
I like going shopping. I’m big on my fashion. I like to look nice, good shoes. My go-to shop is Godmade, a Christian brand.
If you could pick any central midfielder to partner, who would it be?
Either Rodri or Angel Gomes. Rodri, because of the way he dictates the game; I’ve learned a lot from the way he plays. Then, Angel Gomes, because we’re similar players, smaller central midfielders that like to get on the ball and make stuff happen.
