The recipient of the Dylan Tombides Award for the 2022/23 season is Gideon Kodua, the English-born Ghanaian captain of West Ham United's U18 team.
Under Kodua's leadership, Kevin Keen's youth team achieved remarkable success this season, securing 27 victories in 32 games.
As a result, West Ham finished in first place in the U18 Premier League South and won the FA Youth Cup for the fourth time in the club's history. Kodua's contributions throughout the season have been outstanding.
The 18-year-old striker showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting a total of 16 goals across various competitions. Among his notable strikes was a remarkable lobbed goal from 35 yards in the decisive 5-1 triumph over Arsenal.
The Dylan Tombides Award is given annually to recognize the top player in West Ham United's Academy of Football. The award is named in honor of Dylan Tombides, a former West Ham and Australia U23 striker who tragically passed away in April 2014 at the age of 20.
Kodua's impressive performances also earned him opportunities at higher levels. He made his U21 debut in the Premier League International Cup match against PSV at home in October.
Since then, he has made seven appearances across various competitions. Additionally, Kodua made his Premier League 2 debut in a 2-2 draw against Blackburn Rovers.
