Finlay Herrick Reflects on West Ham Debut in Fulham Cup Defeat
Finlay Herrick has made his first home start for West Ham United, but the 20-year-old goalkeeper was left to reflect on a 3-2 Carabao Cup third-round defeat to Fulham at London Stadium.
Herrick stepped into the side on Tuesday night, marking his mother’s birthday with a senior home debut after 14 years in West Ham’s academy. The goalkeeper joined the club at the age of six and produced a determined performance despite the narrow loss.
The young Hammers stopper accepted blame for Oscar Bobb’s decisive goal, while also crediting his team-mates for their effort in the cup tie.
Herrick targets West Ham record
Herrick says former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has been a major influence throughout his academy years. The pair spent time together on youth tours, and the current prospect now wants to challenge the Czech international’s place among the club’s leading clean-sheet holders.
“He is among the players with the highest number of clean sheets in West Ham history, and I want to surpass that,” Herrick said. “Supporters still sing his name every match. As a West Ham player, that is the kind of connection you want with the fans.”
- Herrick joined West Ham’s academy aged six.
- His Fulham appearance was his first senior start at London Stadium.
- He is working with goalkeeping staff Rui Barbosa and Bill Lepine, alongside manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
What happens next: Millwall derby at The Den
West Ham now turn immediately towards Saturday’s trip to Millwall, their first meeting with their London rivals since 2012. West Ham won that previous encounter 2-1.
Herrick has grown up hearing about the rivalry and watching films including Green Street and The Football Factory. He said he is eager to experience the occasion from inside the squad after learning from his Fulham outing.
Millwall arrive after losing four of their past six matches in all competitions, while West Ham are four points clear at the top of the EFL Championship.
“Tuesday was disappointing, but there is a huge game at Millwall on Saturday and I cannot wait,” Herrick said. “I have heard the stories for years, and now I get the chance to be part of it.”
