As the likes of Jamie Vardy have shown, it’s not always the end of the road after being released by a football club.
Crystal Palace’s Reece Hannam can vouch for that. After being released by West Ham in 2020, things looked bleak for the left-back.
As he told Crystal Palace’s official website, lockdown struck just as he was starting to get involved with the south Londoners.
Nevertheless, Hannam took it upon himself to stay in shape as football came to a halt, and he’s now reaping the rewards.
Crystal Palace offered the defender a one-year contract, and he has truly grasped the opportunity with both hands
Reece Hannam – Crystal Palace U23 Player of the Year
After a stunning season, the London-born wonderkid has now been named Crystal Palace’s U23 Player of the Year.
The award comes after he impressively registered six assists in 16 Premier League 2 outings, as the Eagles won the Premier League 2 Play-Off final.
Hannam also caught Roy Hodgson’s eye.
The 73-year-old named the 20-year-old on his bench for Crystal Palace’s Premier League clashes with Fulham, Manchester United, Tottenham, West Brom and Everton.
Hannam didn’t manage to get onto the pitch, but it speaks volumes that Hodgson trusted him to be among the substitutes.
Fair play to the youngster. He has responded superbly after West Ham released him, and Crystal Palace are now reaping the benefits.
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