West Ham United legend and soon-to-be sporting director Mark Noble is apparently 'leading' the search for a 'huge' in-house appointment.

The Lowdown: Noble appointed...

Noble, who recently retired from the professional game after 18 full seasons with his boyhood team, will take up the role of Hammers sporting director on January 2.

The 35-year-old is set to work with both manager David Moyes and the West Ham board ensure the quality running of a side he played 55o games for until hanging up his boots at the end of 2021/2022.

Noble's exit from the pitch marks the end of an unforgettable era for both supporters and the player alike, and while he doesn't officially commence his off-field role until the new year, it appears he has already got to work behind-the-scenes.

The Latest: Noble 'leading' quest for 'huge appointment'...

According to reports in the last 48 hours, the Irons fan favourite has undertaken the lead in his first in-house mission.

The West Ham Way claim Noble and the club are eyeing a 'huge appointment' with Noble personally 'leading' the charge to get it done for his first 'key task'.

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West Ham are allegedly 'narrowing' their search for a new academy manager to replace Ricky Martin after looking both internally and externally at options.

The Verdict: Crucial...

Noble getting this appointment right would be a fine start to his life as sporting director, not least because the future of West Ham's brightest prospects is hugely imperative to the club.

The likes of Harrison Ashby and Declan Rice have emerged as some of Rush Green's hottest talents under the tutelage of Martin, and Noble will be hoping to recruit a similar success story.