Exciting prospect leaves experienced defender scrambling for West Ham future

West Ham United defender Oliver Scarles has impressed since manager Graham Potter gave him his first domestic start in the FA Cup defeat against Aston Villa in January.

He has followed that up with standout displays in the Premier League.

Scarles made his full Premier League debut in the 1-0 win against Arsenal and was named Man of the Match.

He appears to have cemented his spot in the team after starting subsequent games against Leicester City and Newcastle United.

The talented teenager has played ten times in the Premier League this season, although he has started just three times.

He has helped West Ham keep two clean sheets and won a highly impressive 60 percent of his ground duels. He’s also averaging 1.4 tackles and 2.8 ball recoveries per 90 minutes.

Scarles’ composed and energetic performances haven’t gone under the radar.

Potter has cautiously praised the Hammers prodigy and made it clear that the youngster has a bright future ahead.

“He’s been really good since we’ve come in,” Potter said. It’s a big thank you to the academy because that type of player is (rare). And he’s a really good character.

“I’m saying a lot now, but I need to calm it down because he’s still young and has a lot to do. But there’s a lot to look forward to.”

Scarles’ rapid development could leave Potter and the recruitment team with a major decision to make on Emerson Palmieri’s future.

The Italian left-back has now been forced to settle for a spot on the bench for three consecutive Premier League games.

Emerson’s contract with West Ham runs until 2026, and the club could cash in this summer rather than risk losing him for free.