OPINION
Sunday’s clash between West Ham United and Leicester City’s Under-23s sides was all about the return to action of Hammers first team star Jack Wilshere.
However, it was another, far less experienced, West Ham talent who stole the England international’s thunder. Conor Coventry, playing alongside Wilshere in midfield, was absolutely tremendous from start to finish in the team’s 1-0 win.
The 19-year-old has been in and around the U23s set-up for some time to now and it was clear to see that he knows what he’s doing at this level. He bossed proceedings in an incredibly assured display.
Wilshere will likely feature far sooner for the first team, but on Sunday’s evidence it was Coventry who looked more deserving of making the step up than the 27-year-old.
He was particularly good in the second half as he grew into the game with the experienced campaigner alongside him in the middle of the park.
It’s obvious that this is a young man with a very bright future in East London and, after stealing Wilshere’s spotlight, the question would appear to be just how soon will he make the jump up to Manuel Pellegrini’s senior side?
The Chilean, amidst a topsy turvy debut season with the club, has shown an admirable willingness to place his faith in youth. Coventry could well be the latest teenager to benefit from the manager’s trusting nature.
Coventry is a good all-round midfielder, capable of both technical excellence and inimitable industry. He is aggressive in the tackle and accurate in his use of the ball, both vital qualities to have at Premier League level.
So while Wilshere was the big story heading into Sunday’s game, Coventry’s performance would likely have resulted in those watching forgetting all about the former Arsenal star.
