Oliver Scarles has sent a message after West Ham confirmed a new deal for Freddie Potts.
The 21-year-old, who is currently on loan with Championship outfit Portsmouth, has signed a new long term contract with his boyhood club.
The midfielder was set to enter the final year of his contract at the London Stadium but the new deal means that the Hammers have tied down their latest youth star for the foreseeable future.
Scarles and West Ham legends react to Potts contract announcement
Potts has starred for Portsmouth this season, and it was imperative that the Irons tie down one of their best prospects before he can leave for free.
The Pompey loanee took to Instagram to share an image of him signing the contract alongside sporting director Mark Noble, saying: “Delighted to have signed a new long term contract with my boyhood club!”
Scarles, who has forged a role in Graham Potter’s first team recently, reacted by commenting on the post, saying: “Top mate.”
Meanwhile, Carlton Cole, Jack Collison, and Paul Konchesky also commented to congratulate the Hammers ace.
Cole said: “Well done Pottsy.”
Konchesky’s message said: “Congratulations m8.”
Meanwhile, Collison said: “Great to see my man – Congrats.”
Scarles shows Potts the route to West Ham stardom
Scarles has become a mainstay of Potter’s side, starting three of the last four Premier League matches at left-wing back.
The left side of defense has been a problem position for the Hammers with Aaron Cresswell and Emerson Palmieri well past their peaks but the Irons now have a long-term solution with the academy graduate’s emergence.
| Stats (Championship) | Potts |
| Matches | 29 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Pass Accuracy | 77.1% |
| Duels won | 181 (63.1%) |
| Ground duels won | 66 (63.5%) |
Central midfield is another issue for Potter but Scarles’ rise may force the former Chelsea man to look at the options already at his disposal in East London, which could give Potts a chance to impress and forge a first-team role.
The Hammers loanee has featured in the majority of Pompey’s Championship matches this season and has shown his abilities both on the ball and off it and could be a genuine option in the Premier League next season.
With a focus on numerous positions in the summer transfer window, if Potter decides to utilise Potts then it could free up funds to address other areas of weakness within the squad and correct the errors made under Julen Lopetegui and Tim Steidten last summer.
