WEST HAM: Spence looks to kick on with Hammers (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

WEST HAM: Spence looks to kick on with Hammers

11:31am Thursday 11th March 2010 in

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WEST HAM academy graduate Jordan Spence has been gradually moving closer to a first-team spot after a string of impressive performances.

Still just 19, the defender has enjoyed successful loan spells at Leyton Orient and Scunthorpe United over the past two seasons. However, he hopes to make the step up and feature for the Hammers in the weeks and months to come.

Spence was included in the match squad to face Bolton Wanderers at the weekend and has been trying to demonstrate what he has to offer in an attacking sense, rather than focusing on his natural defensive qualities.

“The defensive side of the position comes more naturally from playing regularly at centre-back,” he told the club’s website. “But I have been playing right-back more consistently lately. I feel I have a lot to offer going forward.

“I have been staying out at the end of training with Kev (Keen) and a few of the boys working on crossing and delivery into the box. I see how Julien (Faubert) often gets into those areas and really puts quality telling balls in.”

Spence was able to replicate that side of the Frenchman’s game in setting up the winner in West Ham’s reserve team victory over Chelsea, while he took on a more unfamiliar holding midfield role in a friendly against San Jose Earthquakes.

He has also been able to draw from the experience of assistant manager Steve Clarke and reserve coach Alex Dyer, who excelled at full-back during their respective careers.

“It is a great opportunity,” added Spence. “Steve offers help as that was the position he made his own during his career. There is a lot of help around for me and they are helping me to learn the position and get better.”