Anton Ferdinand and Jack Collison understand how crucial pre-season tours can be for academy players looking to secure a spot on the first team.
In the summer of 2003, Ferdinand seized his opportunity to shine during a West Ham training camp held in Sweden, earning him a professional debut on the season’s opening day.
For Collison, it was a late inclusion in a pre-season tour of North America in 2008 that allowed him to team up with Scott Parker, setting his path toward the first team.
Now serving as ambassadors for the Hammers, Ferdinand and Collison have been involved with Julen Lopetegui’s squad, which features nine academy graduates, during their training camp in Florida.
Collison currently resides in the United States, where he has spent the past five years coaching, including two years leading West Ham’s U16 team.
Anton Ferdinand and Jack Collison know how pre-season tours can provide a first-team path
It was 2003 when Ferdinand was given his chance to impress on a training camp in Sweden
The 35-year-old coach has worked with several of the young players currently in the States, with one in particular—19-year-old George Earthy—holding a special place in his memories after scoring his first senior goal in the final home match of last season.
‘Watching him was like seeing a mini Mark Noble,’ Collison tells Mail Sport.
‘His personality was always that of a cheeky kid, full of energy, who loved training and was incredibly competitive on match days.
‘It’s tough to predict futures at that age, but there’s always hope they will reach their potential.
‘We had a great group, and it was enjoyable to watch, but seeing their development over the last couple of years has been remarkable.
‘Pre-season is significant for these youngsters, especially with a new manager coming in; it presents a valuable chance to make a strong impression.’
Similarly, Ferdinand is well-acquainted with the young talents emerging and is particularly enthusiastic about center-back Kaelan Casey.
Collison received a late call up to a pre-season tour of North America in 2008
‘As a fellow defender, I have high expectations for him,’ Ferdinand states. ‘He’s an exceptional talent who thrives in one-on-one situations, possesses deceptive speed, and has a remarkable work ethic. He’s eager to learn.
‘His drive to learn and passion for the club remind me of myself. I believe this can carry him far. He just needs the chances, and I have no doubt that if given the opportunity, these boys will seize it.’
Earthy and Casey both came on as substitutes in the second half of West Ham’s 3-1 loss to Wolves, with Freddie Potts and Gideon Kodua also getting some playing time.
‘This is where I found my opportunity, on a pre-season tour in Sweden,’ Ferdinand recalls. ‘As a young player, you’re eager to prove yourself, demonstrating to the manager that you’re capable and ready.
‘This moment is a fresh start for everyone—not just the younger players, but all players. What’s more, this manager actively prefers young talent. You can witness that with the seven or eight players brought along. They’re participating in training sessions, not just filling spots; they’re being treated like first team members, which I find very refreshing.’
Centre back Kaelan Casey (left) has impressed, and so too young midfielder George Earthy
Ferdinand and Collison spoke to Mail Sport while conducting a special coaching session for local club Jacksonville Armada FC.
They also imparted their experiences and insights to U19 and U17 players aspiring to follow in their footsteps into the professional realm.
‘There’s immense pride in watching young players succeed,’ Collison reflects. ‘Even if you’ve had just a brief interaction, seeing them progress and make their mark in the professional game is rewarding.’
‘Sharing your experiences with young individuals striving to emulate your achievements at the club is invaluable,’ Ferdinand adds.
‘That’s why I dedicate myself to mentorship and engage closely with the academy.’
West Ham is set to face Crystal Palace in their last match of this pre-season tour on Saturday, and the nine academy aspirants will be eager for the opportunity to demonstrate their capability for elevation to the first team.
