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It is fair to say that West Ham have not been the most stable of clubs for strikers in recent seasons but there is optimism that things could be set to change.

The Hammers drafted in young Portuguese striker Xande Silva late on in the summer transfer window and the 21-year-old has proven to be an instant hit in east London.

Silva made his debut for the U23 side this week and netted a six-minute hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur, overturning a 1-0 deficit to seal a 3-1 victory for the Hammers.

His performances have caught the eye of academy boss Terry Westley, who has tipped the young forward to excel in West Ham colours.

Speaking to Claret & Hugh, he said:

“At under 23 level, he’s going to prove a serious handful against any team we meet.”

“He is so quick over zero to five yards and has the ability to nick the ball off defenders and get in behind them. He also has a seriously powerful right foot and hits the ball so cleanly.

“Last night he scored very different types of goal and was entirely composed about it all – a good player!

“He is a very powerful striker and he will be given the season to settle in  – it’s down to him what sort of impact he can make at the higher level but he has made a seriously good start. Fair to say we really like the look of him!”