West Ham United fans have given their reaction after Reading FC completed the signing of young midfielder George Earthy from the Hammers.
The 21-year-old midfielder has joined the Royals for an undisclosed fee and has signed a three-year deal.
Earthy has shown plenty of promise during two loan spells with Championship side Bristol City.
Many West Ham fans had expected Earthy to be in contention of featuring for their first-team this campaign following their relegation to the Championship. However, the club have opted to cash in as they look to win promotion back to the Premier League.
Some Hammers fans have reacted with anger and disappointment at the club’s decision to sell an academy player rather than giving him a shot in the first-team.
One West Ham fan said: “Hate this. Potts and now Earthy. This was the moment to give them a chance. Both proven to be effective in this league at the club they love. Poor.”
Another added: “Disappointed, another up and coming player let go. The academy players would play their hearts out to be in this team and we release them, Earthy wouldn’t start in my team but he is great depth to come off the bench.”
Meanwhile, a Bristol City fan commented: “Very surprised at this, was great at his first loan spell with us (Bristol City) never got a chance in the second spell, thought he would feature for the Hammers this season though.”
Another West Ham fan said: “Why wouldn’t you keep him and see if he’s up to it in the Championship? Would be plenty of chances to ease him in.”
One more added: “Shame he wasn’t given the chance to prove himself this season, hope there’s a sell on clause as hopefully he smashes it in L1 and gets a chance to showcase his talent in a higher division.”
Upon completing his move to the Royals, Earthy said: “I know how big the club is with a massive fanbase. It was a no brainer when Reading came after me.
“I am an attacking, creative player who will give my all for the badge and for the club. Hopefully I can score as many goals as possible and assist as many as possible to get the club back ot where it belongs, into the Championship and push on from there.”
