Tomkins delight at big week

Youngster still 'buzzing'

Last updated: 27th March 2008

James Tomkins West Ham 2006

Tomkins: Big week

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West Ham defender James Tomkins is still 'buzzing' after the most memorable week of his fledgling career.

The 18-year-old started his first West Ham match at Everton on Saturday and bagged a brace in the England Under-19 victory over Russia on Tuesday.

"It's hard to put this week into words. I still can't believe it now, I'm still buzzing. To score two goals as well, it's been a very good week for me," he said.

Tomkins was the second West Ham youngster to make his debut in consecutive weekends after Freddie Sears came off the bench to score the winner against Blackburn.

"Freddie made his debut a week before me and he could have won the game against Everton as he popped up and hit the post," he added.

"He's been banging them in for the youth team and the reserves, and he's deserved his chance. Now I've got my chance I just want to show everyone what I can do."

Collison hope

Meanwhile, midfielder starlet Jack Collison is hoping to soon follow in the footsteps of both Tomkins and Sears.

"This is an exciting time for me. The manager (at West Ham) has shown he is not scared to put youngsters in," he said.

"Freddie Sears has done really well, scoring the winner on his debut and almost getting the winner at Everton. James Tomkins, too, did okay at Everton on his first game. He improved as it went on. Now I aim to keep working hard and, hopefully, it will be my chance next.

"West Ham have seven first-team games left, and I just hope that I can impress the boss in training and I get given a go as well.

"It's his decision, when he thinks the time is right, and then it is up to me to take the opportunity to show what I can do. People notice you more when you play international football, that has helped me."