​West Ham United have confirmed the signing of Niamh Peacock after she left Arsenal this summer having been part of England’s Under-20 setup. The 18-year-old has spent the bulk of her footballing life at Arsenal, joining the club at under-9 level following two years with Chelsea. Her early footballing years began at four, and she first played with her local boys’ team, Isleworthians, where she was frequently the only girl in the squad. Peacock has said she spent “half of my life” at Arsenal, a club where she captained teams at academy level as well as for England. Initially a central midfielder, she later transitioned into central defence as she grew, and today she predominantly operates on the left side. She describes herself as a leader and a forward-thinking player, building her game around organising the back line and delivering progressive passes.
Leah Williamson has been a significant role model for Peacock, given their shared position and academy pathways, as well as Williamson’s leadership. “I’m delighted to join West Ham United,” Peacock said, and she will wear the number 26 shirt. “This is a big club with big ambitions and a passionate fanbase. I felt that coming here was the best fit for me at this moment in my career. Signing my first professional contract is a proud moment for me and my family. I can’t wait to develop my game and become a better player and person.”
When asked about her career to date, Peacock recalled: “I was at Arsenal for 10 years, but before that I started playing football at four, playing with my dad and brother in the cages. I then joined a grassroots team, moved to Chelsea at seven, and then transferred to Arsenal at nine. I believe the lessons and opportunities I’ve had have helped me reach this point, and I hope to keep building on them.” Last season, she spent time with Watford and Portsmouth, making seven appearances in the WSL 2 for the latter club.
Reflecting on what she learned from her first spell of senior football, Peacock said: “It was a fantastic chance at both clubs to gain first-team experience. Particularly at Portsmouth, where Jay Sadler gave me the opportunity to make my WSL 2 debut at 17, an experience I’ll always be grateful for because it taught me so much, and I hope to carry those lessons here.”
Peacock has also represented England at youth level. She spoke about what it means to wear the national shirt and whether the move to West Ham could help her continue progressing through the age groups: “Definitely! It’s such an honour to play for England. From the age of 15 up to now, every time you put on the shirt it’s an honour, and I hope to continue that here.” When asked about her leadership abilities, Peacock emphasized: “Growing up in Arsenal’s Academy, I captained many of the age groups, and that taught me a lot about leadership and responsibility.”