Keenan Appiah-Forson is anticipating another tough test for West Ham United U21s when the side take on Manchester United.
The young Hammers return to Premier League 2 action on Friday evening when they travel to Altrincham FC’s J Davidson Stadium to take on the Red Devils.
The Irons head into the match on the back of a defeat to Sparta Prague on Tuesday and Appiah-Forson is relishing the challenge.
At 20-years-old, the midfielder is now one of the older players in the development squad and is also enjoying the responsibility that comes with such a role.
“Manchester United will be another tough game,” Appiah-Forson told whufc.com. “Personally, I’m always looking forward to these tough matches. Hopefully we can play well and do the basics right and get the right result.
“We’ve got some new teammates now and we’re trying to learn about each other. I’m trying to be a bit of a leader and help them wherever they need it. I’m one of the older ones in the group now so I think it’s my duty to help them adapt to this level and get through this tough time.
“Playing at U21s is a completely different game and I’ve been doing it for a little while now, so I know what it’s about and I want to help my younger teammates however I can.”
The loss to Sparta Prague at the Chigwell Construction Stadium in midweek means the U21s have earned just one competitive win in all competitions so far this campaign, something the side is eager to change on Friday.
Appiah-Forson has been through difficult times with the development team before but believes the group has the talent to start earning victories.
He added: “Losing is never nice. Sparta were a strong, physical side, and they play men’s football every week. It’s another learning curve for us that we can take on and try and get stronger. It was an unfortunate defeat.
“It’s been a tough period, but I’ve been there before. I remember a couple of seasons ago when we were struggling, and we had to really dig in. We all stuck together and managed to pull through for each other.
“That year, we were in danger of being relegated, and we were able to avoid it. We’ve got a good group here. We just need to keep pushing forward and stick together. The results will come.”
