MALACHI Napa’s journey through youth football has been immortalised in a comic strip.

The unique accolade comes thanks to the 17-year-old, who has been offered a professional contract at Oxford United, being named as West Ham United’s Premier League Kicks Hero.

Napa grew up in Woolwich and attended his first Kicks session with the Hammers’ foundation aged 12.

To celebrate ten years of the social inclusion scheme, each club nominated one player, with Napa selected by the east London side.

And the comic strip, illustrated by Marvel artist John McCrea, was presented to the young winger by Hammers winger Michail Antonio.

Napa said: “It makes me proud of how far I’ve come.

“Looking back at it all now, I feel very lucky to have met great coaches like George (Chukwuma) and for the opportunity to play football (at a tournament) in Belgium.”

Meeting Michail Antonio has been another amazing part of this journey.

"I really look up to him as we play in the same position, so it was great to hear advice from a Premier League footballer like him.

"He told me to keep doing what I’m doing and I’ll end up where I want to be, which was very encouraging.”

Antonio said: “Malachi is a good example of how someone can achieve great things when they focus on what they want and work hard for it.

“He is going in the right direction and he definitely deserves to be recognised by West Ham United as the club’s Premier League Kicks Hero.

“Malachi has achieved a lot and he has a good heart.

“He doesn’t only wish to succeed for himself, but for his family as well and it’s important to stay focused on that goal.”I wish him all the best with his playing career and see a bright future for him.”