Teenager Lampe signs for West Ham

Manager Gianfranco Zola has been keen to promote the club's youth

Harlow Town defender Jack Lampe has signed a one-year deal with West Ham after impressing during a trial spell at the club's academy last season.

The 17-year-old made four appearances for Harlow last season and was recommended to the Hammers by the Ryman League side's coach Colin Williams.

He appeared for West Ham's youngsters in a 2-0 win over Fulham in April.

"I hope to become a regular in the reserves and earn another contract," Lampe told the West Ham website.

"I can't wait to start working at West Ham now."

Lampe is the sixth player, after academy graduates Matt Fry, Tony Brookes, Oliver Lee, Daniel Kearns and Anthony Edgar, to sign his first professional deal with the Upton Park club this summer.

"Jack impressed during a trial period during the end of last season and we decided to offer him a contract," said academy director Tony Carr.

"He looked composed and as if he had played at that level before and we felt it was worth giving him a season to see what he can do."