West Ham legend Sir Trevor Brooking says the club's youngster Freddie Sears has the talent that English youngsters should aim to replicate.

Sears, 18, came off the bench to score the winner in Saturday's 2-1 win against Blackburn Rovers.

"Hopefully, Freddie's emergence will encourage youngsters to practice and work with the ball," Brooking told BBC London 94.9.

"Skill and technique is the be all and end all."

He added: "Hopefully, the opportunity is there for youngsters if they work hard enough.

"You do not have to be big and strong to succeed and get your chance at first-team level."