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Football London
Football London
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James Benge

West Ham U23 player ratings vs Arsenal: Ben Johnson and Nathan Holland sparkle in defeat

Joseph Anang: A hugely impressive performance from the 18-year-old, who gains an extra mark solely by virtue of the sprawling save with which he denied Tyreece John-Jules. To make it even more impressive he was up on his feet like a flash to deny the lurking Xavier Amaechi. 8

Ben Johnson: It is easy to see why Manuel Pellegrini had no doubts throwing Johnson in at the deep end against Manchester City earlier in the season, the young right-back already looks ready for the Hammers first-team.

Not only is he capable of covering ground quickly down the right but he is more than capable of beating opponents. This was thrilling stuff from Johnson. 9

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Jeremy Ngakia: Was given one of the hardest tasks on the pitch in managing the in-form Xavier Amaechi but he certainly did not shrink from the task, sticking close to his man and leaving the offensive work for another time. 6

Conor Coventry: A solid, composed presence in the Hammers midfield, he was a more than able shield when Arsenal pushed forward. 6

Mason Barrett: Was perhaps too easily overpowered for John-Jules' goal but that would have been the only occasion in what was a largely impressive display at the back. 6

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Aji Alese: A commanding display from the young centre-back, whose crucial diving intervention denied Tyreece John-Jules an early one-on-one wih Anang. He was equally impressive with the ball at his feet, unafraid to carry it into midfield and commit opponents. 7

Dan Kemp: There were flashes of real threat from the West Ham No.7 but they were too few and far between as a player with clear talent struggled to make a major impact on the game. 5

BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND - MARCH 29: Dan Kemp of West Ham United is challenged by Joe Willock of Arsenal during the Premier League 2 match between Arsenal and West Ham United at Meadow Park on March 29, 2019 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by James Chance/Getty Images) (ames Chance/Getty Images)

Alfie Lewis: Showed a fine range of passing to probe Arsenal's weak areas down the flanks, but at times seemed guilty of not tracking the runs of Joe Willock and James Olayinka from deep. 6

Sean Adarkwa: The No.9 worked his socks off in pressing the Arsenal backline and nearly got his reward when an Arthur Okonkwo clearance cannoned back off him. It was no wonder he was the first to make way, he must have run himself into the ground. 6

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Jahmal Hector-Ingram: His running from a slightly withdrawn role gave Arsenal plenty of difficulties but when the ball did come to him you sensed he wanted a touch too many, on one occasion wasting a chance to turn and shoot by taking his time, allowing Danny Ballard to dive in. 6

Nathan Holland: A continual thorn in Arsenal's side, he was always looking for the ball and to commit Jordi Osei-Tutu. If one were being critical there was a sense that he could do more with his final pass but still, Holland showed clear promise. 8

Ben Johnson is the latest West Ham starlet to break through - so who could be next? 

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