Rusea's midfielder setting up for West Ham deal

WESTERN BUREAU:

Rusea's High School midfielder Deshane Beckford could make a big move to the English Premier League if West Ham United signs him to its youth academy.

The 17-year-old is on a trial stint at the London-based club, accompanied by his coach, Aaron Lawrence.

Lawrence told The Gleaner from London yesterday that there is a real chance his young player could ink a deal with the Hammers.

very excited

"He is very excited about the prospects. Things are looking good for him and we are just waiting to see what comes from this," Lawrence said.

The attacking midfielder was a key member of Jamaica's Under-17 team at the recent World Cup qualifiers, and played for Montego Bay United's (MBU) Under-21 team in the forward role.

Details were not discussed, but Lawrence said the Hammers asked that he first play a season in Europe, which would qualify him for a work permit. His likely destination, according to Lawrence, is Greece, where he is expected to play for a club there before returning to London.

"That is just rudimentary. He requires a work permit and going this route is certain to get him that. He is a good prospect and the West Ham folks like him. The future for Deshane is very bright," said Lawrence, who should know a little about international football, having played for the Reggae Boyz at the highest level.

Beckford travelled to London on Wednesday, April 15, after being scouted in the last daCosta Cup season.

Lawrence, who has first-hand knowledge of his level of development, believes Beckford will succeed.

"I believe he will succeed; he has it in him to do well. The talent in Jamaica is well known, but he now has the opportunity to do something which is not done often. And yes, this will also inspire his teammates at Rusea's to step up also, because great opportunities are out there for good, young, technical players like Deshane.

"Nothing is signed yet, but it's likely," added Lawrence.

ideal candidate

The former national goalkeeper said young Beckford's attitude on and off the playing field makes him an ideal candidate for a contract at West Ham's youth academy, where his development could really take off.

West Ham is known for developing top-class players such as former Chelsea legend Frank Lampard, Jermaine Defoe and former Manchester United and England captain Rio Ferdinand.

The Hammers can also lay claim to England star Geoff Hurst, Bobby Moore, Paul Ince and Harry Redknapp.

"If, in fact, he inks a deal to join the club, there is no doubt his development will be guided by the fact that West Ham has a long, rich history of producing great players," said Lawrence.