Sixteen year-old Ollie Scarles was thrilled by his recent senior experience with West Ham in the Europa League.
The decision to include the young, versatile midfielder in the squad for the trip to Anderlecht captured the imaginations of West Ham fans, particularly when Scarles was named on the bench for the 1-0 win against the Belgian side.
While Scarles did not get on for his senior debut, the experience of being a first-team player for the very first time was not lost on him.
He told whufc.com: “The whole time I was there with them, I was just trying to take it all in. At times, I just could not believe I was there. It felt like I was watching some sort of documentary, where you watch what's happening in a football first-team.
“I couldn't believe I was there but everyone was so welcoming. All of the lads were decent with me. I tend to hang around with the younger lads in the squad. Conor Coventry, Ben Johnson and Flynn Downes really looked after me. Aaron Cresswell looked after me too. I was really thankful to him for that.
“All the players were so good with me and the fans were amazing as well. Warming up in front of the West Ham fans that evening was incredible. It was a great atmosphere and they made me feel right at home."
