PREMIER - West Ham debutant Chesters: "I'm so happy, and lost for words"

Speaking to West Ham TV about his first-team debut, in latest Europa League match, which Hammers won over Genk by a 3-0 outcome, 19-year old English attacking midfielder Dan Chesters stated:

“I’m speechless – I’m lost for words. I was training [with the U23s], and I got a text to come over to the hotel in Stratford. I thought I was just going to be in the squad, but I got on and… it’s amazing! To be fair, the crowd was hyping me up and giving me lots of encouragement. I was excited to get on the pitch. 

When we went to 3-0 up, I was like ‘I think I might have a chance of coming on’ – and then the manager gave me the shout, and I’m just thankful for the opportunity. He said ‘just try and create an impact – and have fun.’ I had to show what I’m good at, but I only had four minutes, so I just tried to run around and do my job for the team.

I think Nobes (West Ham captain Mark Noble) kept trying to go down the right-hand side to try and get me on the ball as much as he could! I’d like to thank him as well. 

I’d like to thank all my family for helping me get here. My Mum and Dad have always taken me to training, and I’d like to thank my girlfriend, because she looks after me a lot.  I’m just over the moon – I’m lost for words.

I just can’t wait to play on Saturday and hopefully score a goal or make an impact, and hopefully I’ll get the call-up and be on the [first-team] bench again soon”.