Anton Ferdinand says West Ham youngster Freddie Sears is "special" after he netted his first Premiership goal in their victory over Blackburn Rovers.
"He is special. Even though it was his first game there were no nerves.
"He's a grounded lad, he was born and bred in this area and he has a lot to offer this club. I told him I had a feeling he would score, it was written for him. And he deserves it.
"This is where the hard work starts but he has a future here.
"I'd like to think I'm close to a lot of the young boys coming through. I know what it is like to come through here.
"There is a lot of pressure on them because everybody expects them to be a lot better than they actually might be."
Hammers midfielder Mark Noble added: "This time last year I got my chance. I told Freddie to go out and celebrate but make sure he comes in ready for work on Monday."
