WEST Ham stars Mark Noble and Anton Ferdinand have backed Freddie Sears to be a big hit for the club in years to come after the youngster's match-winning debut.

The 18-year-old came on as a 75th minute substitute against Blackburn on Saturday and took just six minutes to open his account with the winner in a 2-1 victory.

His impact particularly impressed Noble, who was quick to offer his congratulations.

"I'm just so pleased for Freddie," Noble said.

"He's been grafting away and training with us and he deserves it so hopefully he can kick on from here.

"He's been scoring goals in the youth team and reserves and I know how he's feeling at the minute."

Although still only 20 himself, Noble has already made over 50 appearances for the Irons and earned ten England U21 caps since making the breakthrough from the club's Academy.

And he was quick to offer some sound advice for Sears.

"I've been there myself and I hope Freddie really enjoys it, keeps his feet on the floor and keeps working hard and scores many more for us," said Noble.

"It's a great feeling and the most important thing is not that he's scored but that he is hungry for more.

"He needs to keep on training and playing the way he is and he will be a great asset to the club.

"I think this time last year I got my chance and grabbed it and I am hoping he can do that."

Meanwhile, Ferdinand admits that he is not surprised at the instant impact Sears has made.

"I've been bigging him up from when he first came on the scene and started training with him," said the 23-year-old, who graduated from the Academy in August 2003 and has since made almost 150 appearances.

"He's something special. He showed that. Even though it was his first game, he wasn't nervous."

Ferdinand added: "There's no-one that deserves it more than him because he's a grounded lad.

"He's born and bred around here and I'm sure he has got a future at this club."