Reece Oxford focus

The England Under-17 captain usually operates in defence but was deployed in the heart of midfield as he broke Billy Williams' 93-year record.

Here, Press Association Sport analyse how Oxford, at 16 years and 198 days, fared on his senior bow in front of the watching Slaven Bilic - who replaced Sam Allardyce as West Ham boss in June.

PERFORMANCE

Confident and assured when in possession, Oxford looks comfortable in the middle of the park despite emerging as a defensive hopeful.

He passed up a golden opportunity to open the scoring when he headed tamely at goal but showed he has an eye for the spectacular as he thundered in a 30-yard strike in the second half which whistled just inches wide of the post.

MATURITY

Was not drawn into an argument when surrounded by Lusitans players following a foul on Jose Aguilar, which saw him cautioned by referee Vadims Direkorenko, and kept his head for the remainder of the game.

Not afraid to ask for the ball and rarely wasted possession when given the chance to be involved, Oxford showed his versatility by moving back into his more natural position of centre-back during the second half as West Ham made alterations to give other youngsters a run out.

WAS HE A SUCCESS?

No doubt Oxford will face sterner tests than this throughout his career but he looked at home in a midfield also boasting the likes of England international Matt Jarvis and the experienced Morgan Amalfitano.

His ability to play in more than one position could also be useful to Bilic this season if the club do go on a lengthy Europa League run and endure a tough fixture list.

It is likely Oxford will be given another examination in the unfamiliar surroundings of Andorra La Vella next Thursday night for the return leg and everyone involved with the club will be glad the precocious England youth star has penned a deal at West Ham, having previously caught the eye of Arsenal and Manchester United.