New from the club is that West Ham United’s Dan Potts has signed a two-and-a-half year professional contract.

Signing his first pro deal marks the next step in the career of a player who, less than two years ago, was given the all-clear following a successful battle with leukaemia.

The teenager, who is comfortable at either left-back or centre-back, is in Sam Allardyce’s 20-man matchday squad for Saturday’s npower Championship visit of Barnsley, was naturally delighted to put pen to paper.

“I’m overjoyed with it, to be honest,” Potts told West Ham TV. “When I first heard, I just wanted to get it done and sorted. It’s a big weight off my shoulders and now I can push on with that sorted and try to break into the first team. That’s now my main objective.

“I think the length of the contract at my age is important. You can get year-long contracts and the end of your deal soon comes around and you’re thinking ‘Will I get the next one’. Now I can concentrate on the football side of things.

“It’s been a great experience being around the first team boys. They are a great bunch of lads and the gaffer gives me tips too. It’s good that they’re talking to me because I know that they want to make me a better player. It’s good to hear from experienced people.

“Kevin Nolan is a great player to have around the place because he’s great with the young lads. It’s pleasing.”

Good news as I have seen him play and he looks a great prospect.