An interesting look back into the archives here with footage of Harry Redknapp and a very young Frank Lampard at what appears to be a forum between West Ham fans and representatives of the club, probably sometime around the 96/97 season judging by comments in the footage.

Redknapp offers lavish praise for Lampard when the young midfielder’s ability is questioned by a member of the crowd. Redknapp promised the fans Lampard would make it to the “very top” of football, ahead of other players the club had released- including ex-Ireland international Matt Holland.

Redknapp was manager of the club at the time while Lampard was one of the strongest prospects from the West Ham youth academy. At the time the academy was enjoying a golden age of production as it provided the first team with players such as Rio Ferdinand, Joe Cole, Michael Carrick and Jermaine Defoe within a relatively short time span.

(h/t Football Ramble)