West Ham prospect Ajibola Alese has joined League One side Accrington Stanley on a six-month loan deal, as revealed by the Hammers’ official site.
The youngster has only played Under 23 football before and is looking forward to his first senior action at the Crown Ground. He joins a Stanley side in trouble at the foot of the table, having taken just four points from their opening five matches.
They picked up their first win of the season against MK Dons this weekend, veteran defender Mark Hughes adding to Colby Bishop’s strike to give them a 2-1 win.
Alese os keen to get started under John Coleman and help them to a few more wins.
“I’m very excited – I’ve heard a lot about Accrington Stanley and done a bit of research about the club, so I can’t wait to get started,” he said.
“So far in my career, I’ve only played Under-23s football. I know League One’s going to be tough, but if I can go in there and do well, I think it’ll be a good step in my career and it’ll help me a lot.”
Fleetwood are the visitors this week in the EFL Trophy, with a trip to Bristol Rovers offering Alese the chance of a full league debut at the weekend.
Our View
West Ham usually produce exciting young players, heavy on technique and ability. With a loan spell at Stanley, he’ll keep learning the right way but with the added bonus of togetherness and spirit.
That’s how john Coleman’s side keep their head above water in this tough division; they’re organised, effective and yet play football the right way.
If Alese gets a chance, he could thrive under the wily manager.
