WESTCLIFF-BORN West Ham United midfielder Josh Cullen has joined Charlton Athletic on a season-long loan.

Cullen, 22, could make his Addicks debut just a stone's throw away from where he was brought up as Charlton face Southend United at Roots Hall this weekend.

The former St Thomas More High School pupil has linked up with former Hammer and current Charlton manager Lee Bowyer at the Valley.

Cullen excelled while on loan with League One rivals Bradford City in 2016/17, when the Bantams reached the play-off final and the central midfielder won the Players' Player of the Year award.

The current Republic of Ireland under-21s Player of the Year has made nine appearances for the Hammers, most recently in a 1-1 Premier League draw at Chelsea in April.

Cullen also spent the first half of last season on loan at Championship club Bolton Wanderers, making 12 appearances.