One West Ham United fan experienced a day to remember last week at the Official Premier League Launch event in Manchester.
Billy O’Daly, ten, was the lucky winner of a Hammers’ social media competition and his prize was to travel to the Launch to meet manager Manuel Pellegrini, Marko Arnautovic and Jack Wilshere.
Former West Ham favourite Carlton Cole was also in attendance and O’Daly had the chance to interview all four stars and shadow them as they undertook various media obligations with broadcasters from around the world.
The schoolboy also had a kickabout with Match of the Day pundit and ex-England striker Alan Shearer, before his trip was completed with an overnight stay and a tour of Manchester City’s stadium.
It was an incredible experience and one that I will never forget
Billy O'Daly
He said: “It was an incredible experience and one that I will never forget. Jack is one of my favourite players and I have watched him play for England.
“To have the chance to meet him and chat with him was amazing, he was such a nice man. Marko was also brilliant and it was great fun chatting with him about how he scores so many goals and entertains the fans.”
Dad Tom revealed his son had previously been shy, so the experience of meeting his heroes had been a positive one on all fronts.
“Billy has often suffered from nerves in public situations, but having this opportunity really brought the best out of him and he seemed very confident,” said Tom.
“He had no hesitation in being involved in the various masterclasses, or in speaking on a personal level with the manager and players, who were all great with him. Hopefully this experience can really help him moving forward, and I know how much he enjoyed it because he hasn’t stopped talking about it since it happened!
“I want to thank the Premier League and everyone at West Ham United for making it happen, and for giving Billy an experience that will live with him forever.”