In true West Ham tradition the academy sides did well last year with a number of players standing out during the campaign. The season looked like it was going to be a tough one for Alex Pike however as he picked up a nasty injury in pre-season that ruled him out until just after Christmas. Alex showed great character and determination to get back in to the side upon his return to fitness. He went into the campaign as a recognised midfielder but deputised at right back and impressed and made the position his own. The under 18s then proceeded to reach the play offs having finished second in the southern academy section behind Spurs. The side unfortunately replicated the first team and lost in the semi-finals to Manchester City but it still goes down as an excellent season. Alex was one of the stand out players for the side and the club have high hopes for the player. I was fortunate to have the chance to interview Alex, thanks to the Pike family for giving me the time to find out a bit about the latest academy prospect.
The first thing I wanted to know before I proceeded with the interview was whether he was related to the West Ham midfielder from the 70s and 80s with the same surname. It turns out that Alex is not related to Geoff so the similarities stop with the surname.
What position do you play and have you always played there?
I started off as an attacking player and then became more defensive and played in central midfield as I progressed through the age groups. Half way through last season I filled in at right back and showed potential and since then have continued to play there and develop in that position.
What type of player are you?
Personally I would describe myself as a hard-working defender. I perform my defensive duties well but I am still capable of going forward and helping the team out in attack with good pace and taking advantage of space on the right side.
How did you get spotted by West Ham?
I was spotted by Dave Hunt in the Echo Premier League playing for Buckhurst Hill FC.
Have any of your family been involved in professional football?
None of my family have ever been involved in professional football however I have quite an athletic and sporty family.
Which players do you look up to at West Ham?
I look up to all the players for the simple fact that they have made it into the West Ham first team which is what I am aspiring to do. It is hard to single out any individuals within that team however if I had to choose one I would probably say Mark Noble. This is because he has had a very successful career at the club and has remained loyal. I would want to follow in similar footsteps.
Who has influenced you the most during your career?
Throughout my career I have had various influences that have helped me to get to the stage that I am at. My biggest influence would have to be my parents as they have helped me with everything and continue to do so. I know that they are there throughout all the ups and downs that are inevitable in a football career.
What are your future ambitions for this coming season and beyond?
My aims for this season are to have another good season with the Under 18’s. I am hopeful of success both in the league and the FA Youth Cup. I would also like to aspire to play in the Under 21’s and get some experience in that team after having had a little taste of it in pre-season matches.
How do you feel about the more to the Olympic Stadium?
I think the move to the Olympic Stadium is important for West Ham’s future prosperity and the board have done an excellent job in securing the site for the longer term. Hopefully I will be one of the players lucky enough to play there.
How do you think the first team will do this season?
I think the first team will have a good season this year. They have the potential to do well and have made some good signings this summer which will help strengthen what was already a very good squad. Hopefully they can reach the top half of the table this year after not being too far off last season.
Do you have any interests outside of football?
My main interest outside of football would be tennis. I enjoy playing it in my summer break as it is nice to take part in other sports.
I am sure we will see another big season from Alex and hopefully he will go on to have a very successful career with us.
This interview was organised by James Hampson of Skillequal Ltd and I would like to thank him for that. Skillequal Ltd “http://www.skillequal.co.uk/index-football.php” are a Sports Management company who currently work with a number of professional footballers including many ex and current academy players and are based in the West Ham territory of Harold Wood.