WEST HAM goalkeeper Alphonse Areola has been hailed as a “absolute hero” after displaying an incredible gesture.
Areola joined his mascot in wearing noise-cancelling headphones ahead of Sunday’s clash with Newcastle.
The unnamed young fan stepped out onto the London Stadium turf alongside the French keeper.
And in a lovely gesture, the West Ham star opted to join the club mascot in wearing headphones to block out the stadium noise.
Areola was praised for the move online as the heart-warming moment lit up social media.
One person wrote: “Absolute hero @AreolaOfficiel”
A second said: “Well done, Alphonse, a fantastic touch.”
Another added: “Love this so much. The kid will feel so accepted.”
Another wrote: “This is proper! Class.”
After the match – which ended in a 2-2 draw – Areola himself posted the picture on his Instagram story with a touching quote.
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He wrote: “The game is for everyone.”
After being hailed for his conduct prior to the game, Areola then stepped up and delivered a stunning save to keep out Dan Burn’s header.
West Ham went 1-0 up through Tomas Soucek, before a second-half double from Alexander Isak put Newcastle in front.
But new Irons midfielder Mohammed Kudus scored an 89th-minute equaliser to deny victory for the visitors.
West Ham and Newcastle stayed seventh and eighth respectively in the Premier League table, as both sides returned to action after wins in Europe.