West Ham U23 coach Terry Westley handed Joshua Okotcha, 16, a debut yesterday.

Despite Okotcha's efforts the Irons fell to a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland.

“Playing in the U23s in the league for the first time was a really good experience," Okotcha told whufc.com. “I really enjoyed it, although obviously I would have preferred to have come away with a win.

“I thought we started a little sloppy, but we came back into the game really well. Our performance in the second half deserved an equaliser. Browne hit the post, and we were really unlucky.

“I'm enjoying getting experience with the U23s. Hopefully I can continue to play for this side, and get more time on the pitch in the rest of the games."