From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
The Joint-Chairman on the new Stadium, UEFA Europa League, injuries and
transfers...
It is an extremely busy time for everyone at West Ham United and I can
assure you that we are all working as hard as possible to ensure a
successful future for our Football Club. We are now less than a week away
from our historic first-ever home match at our new Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Hundreds of people have been putting in long days and nights to ensure the
Stadium is ready for our opening fixture against NK Domzale in the UEFA
Europa League, working 24-hours-a-day. There has been so much going on at
the Stadium these past few weeks, with the major work being to move the
relocatable seating into place so that our Season Ticket Holders can sit in
their regular Premier League seats for next Thursday's game. This has been a
major engineering project, but one we are confident will be completed to
everyone's satisfaction.
My Vice-Chairman Karren Brady welcomed VIP guests to the Stadium earlier
this week, including the family and friends of the late, great Bobby Moore,
former players and jounalists. They were given a tour of Club London and
also able to view the inside of the Stadium bowl from the Upper Tier of the
East Stand. The feedback I have received has been overwhelmingly positive,
with some being close to tears when they saw the scale of our new home.
Of course, if we are going to continue to grow our already enormous fanbase,
we need to play entertaining, winning football. On Thursday, we lost 2-1 to
Domzale in our UEFA Europa League third qualifying round first leg tie in
Slovenia, which we all admit was not good enough. I was certainly scratching
my head to explain why we couldn't hit our usual high levels of performance,
and I am sure Slaven and his coaching staff were too. We know we have to do
better next week – and we will. Tickets for the second leg are selling well,
with Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members taking us close to a sell out,
so I would urge you all to purchase your seat as soon as possible to ensure
you do not miss out on this unique occasion.
Any remaining tickets will go on General Sale on Saturday morning and are
expected to go quickly Thursday's performance and the injuries suffered by
Aaron Cresswell, Manuel Lanzini and Gokhan Tore have only increased our
eagerness to get deals done. There has been some good news with Manu, who we
hope will only miss three Premier League fixtures. We are very close to
bringing in a very promising striker who has scored goals regularly in his
career in competitive leagues. He will need time to settle, like every new
player, but we are confident he will add a lot to the squad.
We are also talking to another Premier League club about a top-class
international forward, but the discussions over financial terms still have
some way to go.
With Aaron unfortunately out for a few weeks, we have lodged bids in for a
left-back, one of which was an £8m bid which was turned down on Thursday. We
will now decide whether or not we increase that bid.
Watch this space.
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Stadium in full football mode for Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that the relocatable seating on all
four sides of London Stadium is now in place, which means the Hammers'
iconic new home will be operating in full football mode for both the UEFA
Europa League and the Betway Cup.
The Club have been working tirelessly with Stadium owners E20 Stadium LLP to
ensure that Season Ticket Holders have access to their chosen seasonal seat.
And thanks to the success of the accelerated process to move the relocatable
seats, every single seat in the lower tier will now be in use from day one,
with a maximum Stadium capacity of 54,000 for these first two fixtures.
This is the final step for the ramp up to the Stadium opening at its full
60,000 capacity for the eagerly-awaited opening Premier League fixture
against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday 21 August.
As a result of a great deal of hard work on our part and that of our
partners E20 Stadium LLP, Season Ticket Holders in Blocks 145-155 of the new
Bobby Moore Stand are now able to secure their seat for the return leg
against NK Domzale on Thursday 4 August via www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc or
over the telephone on 0871 529 1966*
Their priority window will run until 5pm on Saturday 30 July.
In the meantime, all remaining tickets elsewhere in the ground are to go on
General Sale from 9am Saturday 30 July.
Supporters are reminded that the return leg will not be televised in the UK
and so the only way to witness the Hammers' landmark curtain raiser at
London Stadium is by securing your seat here.
As for the Betway Cup showdown against Italian champions Juventus,
supporters will be pleased to learn that a number of additional tickets in
the lower tier have now been made available.
The prestigious fixture on Sunday 7 August, which will include the Stadium's
official opening ceremony, had been sold out for some months, but supporters
now have one final chance to get their hand on a ticket for the Hammers'
marquee friendly.
Juventus tickets are on General Sale from www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc or over
the telephone on 0871 529 1966*
*Calls are charged at 13p/min plus your phone provider's access charge.
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Three Hammers, Three Lions, One World Cup
WHUFC.com
Saturday 30 July is a date that will forever be part of England – and West
Ham United – folklore.
That day, three Hammers inspired the Three Lions to their greatest-ever
triumph, a triumph that has never been repeated – FIFA World Cup glory.
Inspirational captain Bobby Moore was the man who lifted the Jules Rimet
Trophy at Wembley Stadium that sunny afternoon 50 years ago, while hat-trick
hero Geoff Hurst and goalscorer Martin Peters were the men whose goals
helped England to win it.
More than 96,000 supporters inside the ground, and millions more watching
and listening across the country, enjoyed the finest day in England's
football history thanks to three humble young graduates of the Academy of
Football.
Moore was the boy from Barking who grew up to be his country's greatest
defender and captain; Hurst was the converted midfielder who Ron Greenwood
had turned into a prolific centre forward; Peters was the multi-talented
player who could line up anywhere and was considered ten years ahead of his
time.
Together, the trio took what they had learned on the lush green grass of
Chadwell Heath in Claret and Blue into the bright white of England on the
biggest day of their lives.
Moore's free-kick was headed in by Hurst to level after Helmut Haller's
opener before Peters put England on the cusp of winning the cup in normal
time with his 78th-minute shot.
Wolfgang Weber equalised with a minute to go, but England would not be
denied as Hurst scored twice – the first a disputed effort that bounced down
off the underside of the crossbar, and the second an emphatic last-gasp
finish while fans spilled onto the pitch.
Five decades on, England have yet to repeat the triumph, and here West Ham's
two surviving World Cup winners share their memories of a truly
unforgettable afternoon.
The hat-trick hero
Sir Geoff Hurst scored after 18, 101 and 120 minutes to complete the first –
and only – FIFA World Cup final treble…
"Scoring three goals and losing would have meant absolutely nothing to me.
I think my first was the most important goal and I've always said that. My
celebration was a combination of 'I'm here, I'm ready, I'm myself now and
I've justified my place. That stupid 'knees in the air' thing I did was an
expression of 'I'm really here'.
"The disputed goal, from a technical point of view, was a good goal. To get
the power on it, I had to lean back and I'm almost sitting on my bum to get
the power. The ball bounced behind the goalkeeper Tilkowski, so I had the
worst view in the stadium.
"The Swiss referee then consulted the Russian linesman and they couldn't
speak a common language. God knows what they were talking about!
"We were then hanging on 3-2 with seconds to go and the last cross of the
afternoon was put in by Willi Schulz on the right wing and the ball was
going to bounce in a very dangerous position. Who was there who has great
technique and reading of the game ability? Bobby Moore, of course.
"What does he do? He chests the ball down in the middle of the penalty area
in a World Cup final. His centre-half partner Jackie Charlton of Leeds would
have dealt with this in a slightly different way and he was heard to shout
across to Mooro: 'Robert, will you please kick the ball out of the ground!'.
"What Bobby was also good at was hitting the front player. Overath was going
to catch me because he didn't have the ball and I did, but then there was a
call from the other side of the pitch [from Alan Ball] of 'Hursty, give me
the ball' and that call disturbed the German defence.
"It could have gone beyond the bar and into the stand, into the crowd, and
by the time the ball boy had got the ball back to Tilkowski and he had hit
it upfield, the game would have been over.
"My feeling was one of relief and then 'Did the last goal count?' so I went
back out on the pitch in my suit and looked at the scoreboard and it said
'4-2' and I realised that it had counted."
The man of the moment
Plaistow-born Martin Peters MBE had only made his England debut in May 1966
and now the Hammers midfielder was a national hero…
"It's so difficult to explain how I felt, but I can tell you how the goal
came about. There were 12 minutes to go and Alan Ball had won a corner on
the right.
"The little guy went out to take the corner and he hit it to the far post. I
had a position on the near post where Alf Ramsey got me to stay.
"It actually went right over the far post and out of the box and Geoff Hurst
got onto the ball and maybe he should have passed but he shot. It was a
rubbish shot to be honest with you and it hit the full-back called Hoettges
on the leg and circled across the edge of the box.
"I had pulled out from my position on the near post to the edge of the box
and, as it came, I thought 'Oh God, it's coming to me, keep your knee over
the ball, like Ron Greenwood had told you at West Ham, and make sure it
doesn't go over the bar.
"As I hit it, the goalkeeper went one way and the full-back Schnellinger
went the other and it went down the middle and hit the back of the net.
"I was up and running and everyone was jumping all over me. Even now when I
talk about it, it gives me a thrill to think about scoring in the World Cup
final."
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Dev Squad beaten by strong Dutch outfit
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad faced a strong VVV-Venlo side on Saturday and were
beaten 6-1.
The Hammers equalised early in the second half through Toni Martinez after
they had fallen behind inside ten minutes, but the remaining action in the
second period was dominated by the hosts.
Substitutions were made and as the game lost its flow, Venlo capitalised on
some lapses in concentration to comfortably see out the game.
In a tight first half, it was the hosts who drew blood first, though the
Hammers had come close through Marcus Browne.
A long through ball from the back was collected in the right channel, and a
pinpoint cross allowed Torino Hunte to tap in.
And Nathan Trott was to thank midway through the first period as he flung
down to his right to superbly deny what looked a certain goal from a
six-yard header.
In the second half, Browne was again involved in the Irons' good play as he
drew a foul 20 yards from goal. Toni Martinez – who had just joined the
squad for the clash – took responsibility and fired low into the bottom left
corner to level the scores.
But soon, the Eerste Divisie team took control and put themselves beyond
reach of Terry Westley's young side – which contained a number of 15 and
16-year-olds.
Nathan Trott made good saves in the build up to Venlo's second and third
goals but could not deny the rebounds which were put away.
Vito van Crooij pounced to grab Venlo's second, while Tim Receveur was there
to find the back of the net soon after.
With half an hour remaining, Venlo scored with the model counter attacking
goal. Snatching the ball back from West Ham – who were themselves looking to
get back in the game – the Dutch side attacked fast and van Crooij was there
to finish an excellent move.
Receveur slid in at the back post to fire past Trott for the fifth, before
Hunte got himself on the scoresheet again, nodding over the line after Venlo
had previously struck the crossbar.
The two simple finishes completed the scoring at the Seacon Stadion – De
Koel to hand Venlo the victory against their partner club.
VVV-Venlo Squad: Maarten de Fockert, Moreno Rutten, Jerold Promes, Roel
Janssen, Danny Post, Vito van Crooij, Clint Leemans, Ralf Seuntjens,
Johnatan Opoku, Nils Roseler, Torino Hunte, Delano van Crooij, Leandro
Resida, Tim Receveur, Tristan Dekker, Roy Oomen, Lugman Bezzat, Roy Gielen
Dev Squad: Nathan Trott (Sam Howes 65), Sam Westley (Matt Carter 52), Josh
Pask, Tunji Akinola, Mason Barrett (Kristjian Belic 70), Diego Poyet (Janaai
Gordon 65), Moses Makasi (Noha Sylvestre 52), Dan Kemp (Jahmal Hector-Ingram
46), Marcus Browne (Conor Coventry 80), Grady Diangana (Joe Powell 61), Toni
Martinez (Alfie Lewis 71)
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West Ham make enquiry for Swansea's Andre Ayew - Sky sources
Hammers also closing in on Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 29/07/16 5:27pm
West Ham have enquired into the availability of Swansea forward Andre Ayew,
according to Sky sources. The Hammers are yet to lodge an official bid for
the 26-year-old, who is understood to be valued by Swansea at £20m. Ayew
attracted interest from West Ham last summer, but joined the Swans on a free
transfer and went on to score 12 goals during his debut season in the
Premier League. The Ghana international, who is contracted to Swansea until
2019, is currently one of only two senior forwards at the club following the
departure of Bafetimbi Gomis to Marseille on a season-long loan. Swansea
hope to sign two strikers before the close of the summer transfer window and
it is understood they will not entertain the possibility of selling Ayew
until they have acquired attacking reinforcements.
Slaven Bilic is worried his West Ham squad is not big enough for the rigours
of the upcoming season… Meanwhile, Sky sources also understand West Ham are
closing in on the loan signing of Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri from
Boca Juniors. A deal for the 22-year-old is nearing completion, but an
announcement is not imminent. Calleri spent last season on loan at Brazilian
club Sao Paolo and scored 16 goals in 31 appearances.
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Hull turn down West Ham's £7m transfer bid for Andrew Robertson
By Keith Downie, Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 29/07/16 5:52pm
SSN
West Ham have had a £7m bid turned down by Hull City for Scotland left-back
Andrew Robertson, according to Sky sources.
The Hammers have been forced into the left-back market after Aaron Cresswell
was injured for up to four months with knee ligament damage on Monday.
Creswell missed just one Premier League game over the past two seasons but
was left writhing in agony in the closing stages of Saturday's pre-season
win over German side Karlsruher in Austria.
Robertson, 22, was instrumental in Hull's promotion campaign to the Premier
League last term, making 52 appearances in all competitions and scoring four
goals.
He signed for Hull from Dundee United for £2.8m in 2014 and has gone on to
play 77 times for the Tigers. Glasgow-born Robertson also has 10 caps for
Scotland.
West Ham have been plagued with injury problems already in pre-season, with
Manuel Lanzini suffering a knee injury with Argentina ahead of the Olympic
Games in Rio.
Summer signing Gokhan Tore also needs a scan on his own knee problem after
being hurt in training on Monday.
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West Ham don't need to sell Dimitri Payet claims club legend Tony Cottee
22:30, 30 JUL 2016
BY STEVE STAMMERS
Under the regime of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady, West Ham
have been transformed and, for Cottee, that means the end of the "selling
club" reputation
The Mirror
Tony Cottee was a high-profile member of the famed production line of
home-grown talent at West Ham . But he left no doubt about the direction
his career would have taken, had the club enjoyed in 1988 the status it does
now. "Quite simply, I would never have left," he said. "Simple as that."
Under the regime of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady, West Ham
have been transformed and, for Cottee, that means the end of the "selling
club" reputation. "That is what West Ham have been in the past," said
Cottee, a prolific goalscorer in two spells at West Ham. "But those days are
gone. Long gone." "The days when the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Joe Cole,
Frank Lampard and Glenn Johnson and Jermain Defoe HAD to be sold are long
gone."
Cottee is hugely optimistic about the future now the club have relocated to
the Olympic Stadium, with its 55,000 capacity. "It is fantastic," said
Cottee. "It is real progress and it is a huge step forward for the club.
"With all the money that is in football now, West Ham can pay top wages and
the players can play in a marvellous arena. "Why would the likes of Dimitri
Payet want to leave? "The squad is strong and were close to qualifying for
the Champions League last season. There is no reason to leave an environment
like this. West Ham don't have to sell any more – and that is why I can see
someone like Mark Noble staying here for the rest of his career."
That was once an ambition of Cottee's. He saw great prospects ahead, back in
1986 when the club finished third in the old First Division. "That was a
great side," recalled Cottee. "I thought it was the ideal chance to push on
and win the title in the future, but it never happened." "I had the chance
to join either Everton or Arsenal – both teams who push for the title on an
annual basis. "I had also just got into the England set-up and you heard the
Manchester United, Liverpool and Everton players talking about
championships. "I wanted to taste that and, to be fair, John Lyall, the
manager at the time, understood. "But if John had been able to work with the
finances now and send his team out to that stadium, West Ham would have had
more success – and I would never have left."
Cottee is a season-ticket holder at the newly-renamed London Stadium. "It is
a club now ready to compete with the best, not only in London – but also the
rest of the country."
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est Ham closing on £5million signing of Sweden left-back Ludwig Augustinsson
22:30, 30 JUL 2016
BY FOOTBALL SPY
Aaron Cresswell has been sidelined for around four months and West Ham have
stepped up their efforts to get the deal for Augustinsson done
The Mirror
West Ham are closing in on £5million Sweden left-back Ludwig Augustinsson.
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic was ready to move for the FC Copenhagen defender
before Aaron Cresswell 's injury. The plan was to take him to the London
Stadium as back-up to one of the most consistent left-backs in the top
flight. But Cresswell has been sidelined for around four months after
suffering knee ligament damage and West Ham have stepped up their efforts to
get the deal for Augustinsson done. The 22-year-old started his career at
IFK Gothenburg, featuring 29 times before his switch to FC Copenhagen 18
months ago.
Augustinsson has been a regular for the Danish giants, with his exploits
catching the eye of the Hammers.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 31
Friday, July 29
Daily WHUFC News - 30th July 2016
Jurcevic - We were not satisfied
WHUFC.com
Nikola Jurcevic admitted NK Domzale deserved to earn a UEFA Europa League
third qualifying round first leg advantage over West Ham United in Slovenia.
The home side secured a 2-1 victory over the Hammers thanks to Matic Crnic's
double, with Mark Noble's penalty snatching a valuable away goal in between
the winger's own spot-kick and individual run and accurate finish. Assistant
manager Jurcevic – in charge for the night while Slaven Bilic served
completed a two-match UEFA touchline ban – conceded that the PrvaLiga's
third-best side had been the better team at Stadion Stozice and said his own
side would need to improve to progress. The second leg will take place next
Thursday evening at the London Stadium, where a 54,000 crowd will hope to
see the English team turn things around in their first fixture at their new
home. "First I want to say well done to Domzale because they won today and
they were really good," said former Croatia international Jurcevic. "Our
performance was not so good, and maybe I can say it was average in the first
half and it was 1-1. We were not satisfied with this result and in the
second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team and won 2-1. "OK,
we were maybe not in our top form because it was our first official game and
we were without some very important players and only had young players on
the bench, but this is not an excuse, I must say. "Domzale was better and I
hope and I am sure we will be better next week. It will be very difficult
but I'm optimistic and I hope it will be a different game in the Olympic
Stadium. It's a special game because it's the first game at the Olympic
Stadium with about 54,000 spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this
game in our stadium because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it
will be very tough because Domzale showed they are a good team. We must
improve next week, with more players back in the squad, and I hope we can
win the first game at the Olympic Stadium."
Jurcevic stated that West Ham will have to delve into the transfer market to
add reinforcements after losing Turkey winger Gokhan Tore to a knee injury.
Summer loan signing Tore joins Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini in the
treatment room, while the assistant boss also admitted Euro 2016 stars
Angelo Ogbonna, James Collins and Dimitri Payet are unlikely to feature in
the return game with Domzale. Despite those setbacks, the former Croatia and
Besiktas No2 insisted that the Hammers are desperate to reach the Europa
League group stages after falling short a year ago. "We have a new situation
as it's the first year in a new Stadium and we have big ambitions for
Europe," he said. "The Premier League is the most important, but we have
absolutely big ambitions, we want to win and we will do all we can in the
Olympic Stadium to go to the Play-off round and go to the group stage. "It's
difficult to say which players will play because Gokhan Tore was injured in
training on Monday and he must have a scan. Maybe we will possibly do
something in the transfer market because we need some players in some
positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are injured and cannot
play for a long time. "Next week, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be
in training so we maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have
the same squad. "Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It
was a very easy training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his
knee. He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"With Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from
America, where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. We
don't know, but we think he will not be fit for the next game against
Domzale."
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Byram – We'll put it right
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
West Ham United suffered 2-1 defeat to Slovenian side NK Domzale on Thursday
Sam Byram played the 90 minutes in UEFA Europa League third qualifying round
first leg
Hammers welcome Domzale for London Stadium opener in return leg on 4 August
Sam Byram says the Hammers will right the wrongs of Thursday's 2-1 defeat to
NK Domzale when they welcome the Slovenian side to London Stadium for the
second leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie next week.
The Hammers suffered a disappointing loss on a frustrating night in
Ljubljana, as a double strike from Matic Crnic ensured the home side would
be taking a slender advantage into the return game. But with another week's
preparation under their belts, Byram is sure West Ham will put up a better
showing in the first game at their new home to turn the tie around. "We've
got the second leg to focus on now," he said. "We're disappointed to lose
here as we thought we would be coming away with a result. "There are things
to work on and we can't dwell on it now. We just have to look to the next
one. They're probably a bit fitter than us [at this stage in their season],
but in all fairness we should be beating teams like that. "We have better
quality and we play in one of the top divisions in the world so we're
disappointed with the result."
On a personal level, Byram was happy to be back in Slaven Bilic's starting
XI for the first time since the home Premier League win over Sunderland on
27 February, and is keen to play his part as the Hammers look to overturn
Domzale's lead. He explained: "It was my first experience of the Europa
League and I really enjoyed that. It is just a shame about the result. "We
flew back on Thursday night and have a day to recover, but then we'll
regroup and work towards the next one. Hopefully we'll do better at home.
"It's going to be our first game at the new Stadium and it is exciting times
for the Club. "We won't let ourselves get too down. There are things to work
on, but we will go into the next one positively and we're looking forward to
the second leg."
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A REFEREE ANALYSIS – METE KALKAVAN
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:38PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
It's great to be back writing for The West Ham Way, after some very
promising signs from the English FA representatives at the European
Championships, I hope to see improved decision making by referees this
season in the Premier League. I've mentioned in The West Ham Way's June
fanzine that there are some big changes to the Laws of the Game which will
definitely be interesting for next season. With the club going in the right
direction, a 7th place finish and an emotional farewell to the Boleyn
Ground. We enter a very exciting period in the club's history and
potentially bring Europa League group stage football to the Olympic Stadium
this season. Our European adventure starts against NK Domžale in Slovenia
and this is the first meeting between the Slovenian and English club. Mete
Kalkavan from Istanbul, Turkey is the referee in the middle for this 3rd
Round Europa League 1st leg tie.
What a very interesting first half! Looking at the challenges by NK Domžale,
I thought I was watching a different sport with some of them being very
questionable and unnecessary with some even going unpunished. Andy Carroll
was the most fouled player in the first half and the first caution of the
game went to the NK Domžale centre-back for pulling Carroll down outside the
box. I must mention that the International Football Association Board (IFAB)
want to crack down on "intolerable behaviour" by the players. Running to
contest decisions, arguing face-to-face with officials, and "visibly
disrespectful" actions will result in yellow cards and if this was a Premier
League game, Carroll will needs to control his reaction after protesting
with the assistant referee. The biggest talking point of the half was the
harsh penalty awarded to NK Domžale Antonio lost the ball deep inside the
NK Domžale half and after a very good counter attack, the NK Domžale striker
dummied and his shot grazed between Håvard Nordtveit's arm and rib cage. The
Turkish referee pointed to the spot but I feel this is a very harsh
decision. Having said that, I think the motion of Nordtveit's arm toward the
ball made up referee's mind and deemed it as intentional handball.
Regardless, in my opinion there was no obvious intent to stop/interfere with
an attack, the one thing the referee did get correct was to only punish
Nordtveit was a caution, and not to send off the Norwegian. The law for
Denying an Obvious Goalscoring Opportunity has changed and does not always
warrant in a red card. Players committing accidental fouls that deny
goal-scoring opportunities in the penalty area will not be automatically
sent off, with a yellow card sufficient punishment. The Turkish referee also
awarded West Ham a penalty in the first half and this decision I do agree
with. Andy Carroll sent the ball back in the box in the direction of Winston
Reid after NK Domžale half cleared the danger. Reid won the ball in the air
before the NK Domžale goalkeeper came steaming out and clattering the Kiwi
international. The referee was correct to award the penalty on this occasion
after a reckless challenge by the young goalkeeper.
The second half seemed more calm than the first half with a couple of NK
Domžale players getting over enthusiastic in some of their attempts to win
the ball back. NK Domžale's Horvat was the only player cautioned in the
second half, the NK Domžale player went into the Turkish referee's note book
after a series of fouls topped off by pulling Pedro Obiang after a promising
counter attack. Apart from that, no big talking points to highlight but
overall it wasn't a great performance by the referee.
Overall, a nervy refereeing performance by Mete Kalkavan, it didnt look like
he was confident and convinced with his own decision making, especially
after awarding that very questionable penalty to NK Domžale in the first
half. It's now all to play for next Thursday in our first competitive game
at the Olympic Stadium. We go with an away goal and Adrian single handily
saved us from even more embarrassment. With a lot of the first time
available and a strong squad, we did miss that cutting edge especially with
Antonio looking a little loss. We definitely need to turn this around and
hope Slav and the team pull together and get a result. Throughout the
season, I will be giving my opinion on decision making by referees and
analysis for The West Ham Way for as many West Ham games I can, you can
follow me on Twitter @SamRoyden and tweet me using the hashtag #TWHWRef
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NK DOMZALE 2-1 WEST HAM UNITED – MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:14PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
West Ham's European Away woes continued this evening as they were beaten 2-1
in Ljubljana by NK Domzale, which means the club have now lost their last
three European ties away from home.
Their fate could've been even worse if it wasn't for a spectacular double
save near the end of the game by Adrian to keep the scoreline at 2-1.
Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead from the spot after the referee awarded a
debatable penalty when the ball struck Havard Nordtveit's arm and then he
grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal when Michail Antonio was caught
well out of position in the second half.
Mark Noble converted the Hammer's spot kick awarded for a foul by the
goalkeeper on Winston Reid.
The Hammers went into the game with a strong line-up including Adrian in
goal.
The back four consisted of Michail Antonio and Sam Byram at fullback,
Winston Reid and Norwegian International Havard Nordtveit at centreback.
Captain Mark Noble anchored the midfield with Cheikh Kouyate and Pedro
Obiang. Sofiane Feghouli started on the right wing with Enner Valencia on
the left and Andy Carroll up front.
Gokhan Tore missed the game after suffering a knock in training last night
and the Hammers were also without their three Euro 2016 players, Payet,
Collins and Ogbonna plus the injured Cresswell and Lanzini.
Slaven Bilic had to watch the game from the stands as he was serving a
suspension for his sending off against FC Astra last year when the Hammers
were eliminated from the Europa League.
Although the Hammers are still in a strong position to qualify, many of the
faithful will be concerned by this performance when a team consisting of all
first team squad players struggled to break down Domzale and looked so weak
at the back on the counter attack. They will also be frustrated with the
Manager's continual insistence to play Michail Antonio at right back.
Only time will tell if the Manager will change his stance on Antonio but
rest assured if the past is anything to go by West Ham never produce two
poor performances in a row so they should be well prepared for the second
leg to open their new Stadium next Thursday.
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West Ham winger Gokhan Tore to have knee injury scanned
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 29/07/16 8:37am
SSN
West Ham winger Gokhan Tore requires a scan on his knee injury, after being
hurt in training on Monday. The Turkish winger, spending the season on loan
from Besiktas, missed Thursday's 2-1 Europa League qualifying defeat to
Slovenian side Domzale in Ljubljana. He will be assessed on Friday but with
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini also out, assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic concedes the club's hand might be forced. "Gokhan Tore was injured
in training on Monday and he must have a scan," Jurcevic told West Ham's
official. "He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"Maybe we will possibly do something in the transfer market because we need
players in some positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are
injured and cannot play for a long time. "Next week (for the second leg
against Domzale), Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be in training so we
maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have the same squad.
"Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It was a very easy
training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his knee. "With
Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from America,
where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. "We don't know,
but we think he will not be fit for the next game against Domzale."
West Ham must win their first game at the Olympic Stadium if they are to
overturn the deficit againts Domzale and progress in the Europa League, and
Jurcevic expects significant improvement from the team. "Domzale were really
good," he added. "Our performance was not so good and maybe I can say it was
average in the first half and it was 1-1. "We were not satisfied with this
result and in the second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team
and won 2-1. "Okay, we were maybe not in our top form because it was our
first game and we were without some very important players and only had
young players on the bench but this is not an excuse. "I am sure we will be
better next week. It will be very difficult but I'm optimistic and I hope it
will be a different game in the Olympic Stadium. "It's a special game
because it's the first game at the Olympic Stadium with about 54,000
spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this game in our stadium
because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it will be very tough
because Domzale showed they are a good team."
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West Ham branded "average" after Europa League defeat to Slovenian side NK
Domzale
23:32, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 23:33, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored either side of a Mark Noble penalty to leave the Hammers
with it all to do in thrit third qualifying round tie
The Mirror
West Ham were branded "average" and "bad" by assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic after suffering a shock Europa League defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale. Domzale, the third best team in Slovenia, secured a famous 2-1
win to take into next week's third qualifying round second leg which will be
the Hammers' first game at the Olympic Stadium. Matic Crnic, the game's best
player, fired Domzale ahead from the spot after Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball. Domzale keeper Axel Maraval flattened Winston Reid
as he came out to punch clear and Mark Noble grabbed the ball to coolly
level the game. The hosts regained the lead shortly after the re-start with
a slick passing move ending with tricky winger Crnic cutting in from the
left and bending his second of the night and the winner into Adrian's far
corner. West Ham No 2 Jurcevic was dissatisfied with the Hammers' display.
"Our performance was not so good the first half," Jurcevic remarked. "It was
average it was 1-1 at half time. We were satisfied with this score but in
the second half we played bad.
"Domzale were the better team. We are not now maybe in our top form because
it is our first official game but this is not an excuse. Domzale was better
and I hope we will we better in one week in the second game. "It is a
special game first game at the stadium about 60,000 spectators and we must
be better. We must win this game in our stadium because we have big
ambitions in Europe. "But it will be tough because Domzale showed they are a
very good team. We hope we can be better." West Ham are sweating on the
fitness of summer loan signing Gokhan Tore after he suffered a knee injury
in training on the eve of the match. The Turkish winger due to have will
have a scan on the injury today.
West Ham United via GettyAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and
Gaber DobrovoljcAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and Gaber
Dobrovoljc
West Ham: Adrian 6; Antonio 4 (Quina 81, 5), Nordtveit 6, Reid 6, Byram 5;
Obiang 7, Kouyate 6; Feghouli 7, Noble 6, Valencia 6; Carroll 5.
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West Ham set to confirm loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri
Jonathan Calleri to join from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
22-year-old striker scored 16 goals for Brazilian club Sao Paulo last season
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic says his squad is still too small to compete
Summer target Carlos Bacca is yet to decide on a move to West Ham
By RORY O'CALLAGHAN FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:41, 29 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 29 July 2016
West Ham are set to confirm the loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan
Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado as Slaven Bilic looks to build a squad
capable of fighting on four fronts this season. The 22-year-old, who made
his name at Boca Juniors, spent the majority of the last campaign on loan at
Brazilian club Sao Paulo - scoring 16 goals in 31 appearances. Calleri, who
was reportedly a January transfer target of Chelsea last season, is regarded
as one of the most talented young strikers in South America.
JONATHAN CALLERI'S CAREER STATS
Born: September 23, 1993 (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Clubs: All Boys, Boca Juniors, Deportivo Maldonado, Sao Paulo
Appearances: 120
Goals: 45
Honours: Primera Division 2015 (Boca Juniors), Copa Argentina 2015 (Boca
Juniors)
The Argentine is set to join up with compatriot Manuel Lanzini, who could
miss the start of the season after injuring his knee on international duty
with Argentina at the Olympic Games in Rio. Calleri's arrival at West Ham
eases some of the pressure on Bilic, who admitted this week that he believes
his squad is too small to compete in the Premier League.
'We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to
join us and they are extremely quality players,' said Bilic. 'Hopefully we
are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation,
which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a
squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League.'
West Ham have been knocked back in their attempts to bolster their squad
this summer, with targets Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette both
turning down a move to the Olympic Stadium. Meanwhile, AC Milan striker
Carlos Bacca is yet to make a decision over a possible transfer to East
London after the two clubs agreed a £26million deal for the Colombian.
West Ham have already signed five new players this summer, including former
Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli, but Bilic is keen to add to his squad
before the start of the new campaign. The Hammers could be competing in four
separate competitions this season, if they can overturn a 2-1 first-leg
deficit against Slovenian club NK Domzale in the Europa League's third
qualifying round.
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Former West Ham player Jack Collison is still living
his footballing dream.
By Sokkaa -29th July 2016
http://sokkaa.com/
Jack dislocated his right kneecap against Wigan Athletic in March 2009,
which led to a string of knee injuries and changed the course of his career,
which was heading into a bright direction.
Collison began his career at the age of sixteen. He scored 14 goals in 121
games for the Hammers between 2007-2014. Post retirement at a meagre age of
27, one that is considered the prime age for a footballer to peak, Jack is
still chasing his dream off the pitch. I caught up with the Ex-Welsh
international footballer to discuss life post football.
1. Describe life after football.
Interesting, would probably be the best word to describe it. At the
beginning I really struggled, it was hard to even watch a game on TV let
alone go and watch one live. But by missing a full season prior to
announcing my retirement after a brief comeback with Peterborough United, I
decided to get motivated and start planning for the future. I threw myself
into various ventures and made sure I was busy. Currently I am absolutely
loving coaching and through this I have fell back in love with the beautiful
game.
2. Very often, people and youngsters these days believe that footballers
have an easy life. How does it feel when you look back at the dreaded
injury, which changed your career plan?
If I'm honest I feel very blessed that I got a small taste of the big time.
I absolutely loved every moment of being a footballer and there is no better
feeling than walking out in front of thousands of people on a Saturday to
play the game you love. I was unfortunate in the way I had so many injuries
throughout my career, and deep down there will always be the sickening
feeling of 'what if' .people don't often get to see the endless hours in the
gym, rehabbing and that side of the game for injured players, but now I can
no longer play I appreciate the moments out on the pitch even more.
3. Is it true that Chelsea was your club as a kid? Who was your
favourite player?
Yea I used to go to Chelsea with my dad when I could. I used to love
watching Zola and it was unbelievable to play under one of my heroes at West
Ham. Even then he was the best player on the pitch, he was that good.
4. We've been hearing a lot about the Jack Collison Soccer School opened
along with your old friend. Tell us more about the school?
During a period when I was injured I decided to start a new project.
Alongside my good friend Russell short we felt there was an opportunity to
bring high class coaching to grass roots level. We have a heavy emphasis on
having fun and creating a positive environment for the kids to learn. We're
also very lucky that with our contacts we have managed to provide our JCss
kids with memorable moments, such as meeting premier league footballers and
Olympic gold medalists. I am very passionate about the soccer school and
it's been great to watch it grow.
5. In this day and age, many sportsmen opt to start some kind of
training camp or school post retirement. How would you describe yours
differently?
I believe we create a special environment with our energetic coaches. They
really inspire the kids and help them step out of their comfort zone and
enjoy playing football. We are also very lucky that we can get some
fantastic guests down and inspire the kids in that way. We try to keep it
fresh, innovative and moving with the times. I also hope our passion shines
throughout our coaching and we aim to send every kid home with a smile.
6. Let's return to West Ham days for a bit. What was your favourite
moment in a Hammers shirt?
I had a few wonderful moments. I throughly enjoyed my first goal and my
debut but the ultimate highlight would have to be getting promoted at
Wembley with West Ham. The season as a whole was an incredible journey and
winning in front of all those fans was a wonderful experience.
7. Many youngsters find it tough to deal with injuries or being side
lined these days. What advice would you give young players linking this to
your injury and the way you handled the massive news?
I would say always have a back up plan. Try and be proactive and plan for
life after football. Other than that I would say enjoy every moment whilst
your playing. You never know when it will be over so cherish every moment.
8. Is it important to be mentally tough in football? Aggression or
patience?
Yes you have to be very mentally tough and the psychology side is having a
larger impact on football. It's a lot more common nowadays for teams to use
psychologists at all levels. I have found that the kids who seem to go on
and do well have a burning desire to succeed. They throw themselves into
every situation, always looking to improve. It's almost as if you can see
the fire within certain people and that's imperative to make it. Once you
get there patience is essential as there will be many frustrating moments
alongside the great times, it's how you deal with the tough times that often
define you as a player and a person.
9. Wales had a dream tournament at the Euros. What should they do to
maintain and carry on this form until the FIFA WC in 2018?
They need to keep building on the positives. It's great news that Chris
Coleman has signed a new contract and hopefully him and his team can
continue to build something special. Now the country has had a taste of the
big time they will be keen to get the team to the World Cup. They certainly
have the players, and foundations to do that.
10. Do you see yourself as a club manager anytime soon?
I have a lot to learn in terms of management but I am really enjoying my
time with the u18s at Peterborough. However I am very motivated, always keen
to learn and strive to be the best I can possibly be. If that is enough to
get me into management then great, I certainly would love the chance.
11. I see that you're studying for a degree in sports writing and
broadcasting, what's new on that front?
Yes it is another passion of mine. I have always been a keen writer but
never published any of my work up until recently. Once again during a period
of being injured I saw the course on the PfA website and decided to try it
out. It has been very testing at times but I am half way through and very
keen to finish it off. I am also currently working on a book so watch this
space.
12. Where do you see the JC Soccer School heading in the next five years?
My partner Russell and I have big plans. We are keen to crack America and
have our second camp in Philadelphia coming up in a few weeks that we are
really excited about. We want to take it global and although we have only
been running for 18 months we have made good progress.
13. There was a JC Soccer School camp in USA recently. How were the
atmosphere and the experience??
It was an incredible experience in Boston. I have already worked with some
American kids previously and it was great to get the chance to again. They
are so competitive, and keen to learn. It's very refreshing and I'm excited
to try and create something special state side and improve the standard of
'soccer' wherever we go.
14. Shefford is a place closest to your heart. Recite some childhood
football memories?
I grew up in Shefford and had a wonderful childhood there. I still have
great relationships with the local schools and teams so it made sense to
take the soccer school to Bedfordshire. We have a great product and the
local kids seem to like what we have to offer. It's also great to see many
local people going out of their way to help us out in whatever way they can,
especially Robert Bloomfield and Samuel Whitbread schools, they have been
incredible.
15. Who will win the Premier League 2017/2018 and why?
Manchester United – simply because of Mourinho. I think he is incredible.
16. If you had to give one piece of advice to aspiring players, what would
it be?
Just to enjoy every moment. Whether it's training or a game. Love what you
do and cherish the good moments, those special wins and wonderful goals.
17. Five years down the line, what do we see Jack Collison doing?
Who knows. Maybe coaching, maybe in America. I'm really enjoying my role at
the moment and keen to improve so we will see where it takes me.
Thank you Jack for sharing your experiences with Sokkaa and we wish you the
very best for all your future endeavours.
Original interview by Tina MATEEN for Sokkaa
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West Ham captain Mark Noble bemoans Domzale penalty but admits Hammers
deserved to lose
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
West Ham midfielder Mark Noble was not convinced by the penalty that gave NK
Domzale an early lead at Stozice Stadium. However Noble admitted the
Slovenian minnows deserved the victory that has left West Ham's Europa
League future in doubt. The Hammers enter the second leg of their Europa
League third-round qualifier with a 2-1 deficit after Matic Crnic pounced in
each half, the opener delivered from the spot after debutant Havard
Nordtveit was adjudged to have handled the ball. Captain Noble equalised
with a penalty, but West Ham were comfortably second best and their skipper
has demanded an improvement in their first outing at the Olympic Stadium
next Thursday. "I don't think it was a penalty in the first half, but you
have to get on with it and we ended up losing the game," Noble told BT
Sport. "Playing at the Olympic Stadium is something to look forward to, but
obviously this result isn't ideal. "It's our first game there and we've got
to be positive - I'm sure the fans will be behind us - and win the game.
"You're going to miss a player like Dimitri Payet of course, but that's no
excuse. We had a good enough team to come here and win but we didn't do
that. "These games are tough, but we didn't play well. They played well and
deserved it."
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Hungry Feghouli will provide West Ham width
Adrian Clarke 29/07/2016
The Premier League
This summer's transfer window still has over a month to run but already
we've seen a host of exciting newcomers sign for Premier League clubs. As
part of our build up to the 2016/17 campaign, tactics expert Adrian Clarke
runs the rule over what some of the new faces will offer in the coming
months. After looking at Middlesbrough's Marten de Roon, Clarke's attentions
turn to a winger hoping to make up for lost time at West Ham United. The
signing of Sofiane Feghouli is sure to give West Ham supporters yet further
cause for optimism in the club's first season at the London Stadium. The
right-sided midfielder, 26, should be approaching his peak years following
his move from Valencia. Fast, powerful and extremely positive on the ball,
Feghouli will relish the opportunity of taking on Premier League full-backs
on English soil. It's expected that the Algerian will compete with Michail
Antonio for a starting berth, but with the ex-Nottingham Forest man often
utilized at right-back, there's a possibility the two could combine to form
an athletic partnership down that side of the pitch. In many respects last
season's Hammers squad was overloaded with creators favouring to open up
defences from central positions, so by adding another touchline-hugging
winger to their ranks it creates far better balance within the group. Phil
Neville, his former coach at Valencia, once described the winger as a
big-game player, and with 10 UEFA Champions League goals to his name, there
is an element of pedigree to his record. Although far from prolific, the
Algeria international has scored between five and seven goals in each of the
last five campaigns. Last season was a virtual write-off however. After
falling out with Valencia's owner, the winger saw his game-time limited and
he grew into a figure of great frustration. With fire in his belly, a fresh
challenge, and the chance to make up for lost time in east London, Feghouli
could be just the right man for Slaven Bilic. Feghouli scored in West Ham's
3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Karlsruher SC. Watch full-match
highlights.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Nikola Jurcevic admitted NK Domzale deserved to earn a UEFA Europa League
third qualifying round first leg advantage over West Ham United in Slovenia.
The home side secured a 2-1 victory over the Hammers thanks to Matic Crnic's
double, with Mark Noble's penalty snatching a valuable away goal in between
the winger's own spot-kick and individual run and accurate finish. Assistant
manager Jurcevic – in charge for the night while Slaven Bilic served
completed a two-match UEFA touchline ban – conceded that the PrvaLiga's
third-best side had been the better team at Stadion Stozice and said his own
side would need to improve to progress. The second leg will take place next
Thursday evening at the London Stadium, where a 54,000 crowd will hope to
see the English team turn things around in their first fixture at their new
home. "First I want to say well done to Domzale because they won today and
they were really good," said former Croatia international Jurcevic. "Our
performance was not so good, and maybe I can say it was average in the first
half and it was 1-1. We were not satisfied with this result and in the
second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team and won 2-1. "OK,
we were maybe not in our top form because it was our first official game and
we were without some very important players and only had young players on
the bench, but this is not an excuse, I must say. "Domzale was better and I
hope and I am sure we will be better next week. It will be very difficult
but I'm optimistic and I hope it will be a different game in the Olympic
Stadium. It's a special game because it's the first game at the Olympic
Stadium with about 54,000 spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this
game in our stadium because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it
will be very tough because Domzale showed they are a good team. We must
improve next week, with more players back in the squad, and I hope we can
win the first game at the Olympic Stadium."
Jurcevic stated that West Ham will have to delve into the transfer market to
add reinforcements after losing Turkey winger Gokhan Tore to a knee injury.
Summer loan signing Tore joins Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini in the
treatment room, while the assistant boss also admitted Euro 2016 stars
Angelo Ogbonna, James Collins and Dimitri Payet are unlikely to feature in
the return game with Domzale. Despite those setbacks, the former Croatia and
Besiktas No2 insisted that the Hammers are desperate to reach the Europa
League group stages after falling short a year ago. "We have a new situation
as it's the first year in a new Stadium and we have big ambitions for
Europe," he said. "The Premier League is the most important, but we have
absolutely big ambitions, we want to win and we will do all we can in the
Olympic Stadium to go to the Play-off round and go to the group stage. "It's
difficult to say which players will play because Gokhan Tore was injured in
training on Monday and he must have a scan. Maybe we will possibly do
something in the transfer market because we need some players in some
positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are injured and cannot
play for a long time. "Next week, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be
in training so we maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have
the same squad. "Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It
was a very easy training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his
knee. He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"With Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from
America, where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. We
don't know, but we think he will not be fit for the next game against
Domzale."
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Byram – We'll put it right
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
West Ham United suffered 2-1 defeat to Slovenian side NK Domzale on Thursday
Sam Byram played the 90 minutes in UEFA Europa League third qualifying round
first leg
Hammers welcome Domzale for London Stadium opener in return leg on 4 August
Sam Byram says the Hammers will right the wrongs of Thursday's 2-1 defeat to
NK Domzale when they welcome the Slovenian side to London Stadium for the
second leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie next week.
The Hammers suffered a disappointing loss on a frustrating night in
Ljubljana, as a double strike from Matic Crnic ensured the home side would
be taking a slender advantage into the return game. But with another week's
preparation under their belts, Byram is sure West Ham will put up a better
showing in the first game at their new home to turn the tie around. "We've
got the second leg to focus on now," he said. "We're disappointed to lose
here as we thought we would be coming away with a result. "There are things
to work on and we can't dwell on it now. We just have to look to the next
one. They're probably a bit fitter than us [at this stage in their season],
but in all fairness we should be beating teams like that. "We have better
quality and we play in one of the top divisions in the world so we're
disappointed with the result."
On a personal level, Byram was happy to be back in Slaven Bilic's starting
XI for the first time since the home Premier League win over Sunderland on
27 February, and is keen to play his part as the Hammers look to overturn
Domzale's lead. He explained: "It was my first experience of the Europa
League and I really enjoyed that. It is just a shame about the result. "We
flew back on Thursday night and have a day to recover, but then we'll
regroup and work towards the next one. Hopefully we'll do better at home.
"It's going to be our first game at the new Stadium and it is exciting times
for the Club. "We won't let ourselves get too down. There are things to work
on, but we will go into the next one positively and we're looking forward to
the second leg."
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A REFEREE ANALYSIS – METE KALKAVAN
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:38PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
It's great to be back writing for The West Ham Way, after some very
promising signs from the English FA representatives at the European
Championships, I hope to see improved decision making by referees this
season in the Premier League. I've mentioned in The West Ham Way's June
fanzine that there are some big changes to the Laws of the Game which will
definitely be interesting for next season. With the club going in the right
direction, a 7th place finish and an emotional farewell to the Boleyn
Ground. We enter a very exciting period in the club's history and
potentially bring Europa League group stage football to the Olympic Stadium
this season. Our European adventure starts against NK Domžale in Slovenia
and this is the first meeting between the Slovenian and English club. Mete
Kalkavan from Istanbul, Turkey is the referee in the middle for this 3rd
Round Europa League 1st leg tie.
What a very interesting first half! Looking at the challenges by NK Domžale,
I thought I was watching a different sport with some of them being very
questionable and unnecessary with some even going unpunished. Andy Carroll
was the most fouled player in the first half and the first caution of the
game went to the NK Domžale centre-back for pulling Carroll down outside the
box. I must mention that the International Football Association Board (IFAB)
want to crack down on "intolerable behaviour" by the players. Running to
contest decisions, arguing face-to-face with officials, and "visibly
disrespectful" actions will result in yellow cards and if this was a Premier
League game, Carroll will needs to control his reaction after protesting
with the assistant referee. The biggest talking point of the half was the
harsh penalty awarded to NK Domžale Antonio lost the ball deep inside the
NK Domžale half and after a very good counter attack, the NK Domžale striker
dummied and his shot grazed between Håvard Nordtveit's arm and rib cage. The
Turkish referee pointed to the spot but I feel this is a very harsh
decision. Having said that, I think the motion of Nordtveit's arm toward the
ball made up referee's mind and deemed it as intentional handball.
Regardless, in my opinion there was no obvious intent to stop/interfere with
an attack, the one thing the referee did get correct was to only punish
Nordtveit was a caution, and not to send off the Norwegian. The law for
Denying an Obvious Goalscoring Opportunity has changed and does not always
warrant in a red card. Players committing accidental fouls that deny
goal-scoring opportunities in the penalty area will not be automatically
sent off, with a yellow card sufficient punishment. The Turkish referee also
awarded West Ham a penalty in the first half and this decision I do agree
with. Andy Carroll sent the ball back in the box in the direction of Winston
Reid after NK Domžale half cleared the danger. Reid won the ball in the air
before the NK Domžale goalkeeper came steaming out and clattering the Kiwi
international. The referee was correct to award the penalty on this occasion
after a reckless challenge by the young goalkeeper.
The second half seemed more calm than the first half with a couple of NK
Domžale players getting over enthusiastic in some of their attempts to win
the ball back. NK Domžale's Horvat was the only player cautioned in the
second half, the NK Domžale player went into the Turkish referee's note book
after a series of fouls topped off by pulling Pedro Obiang after a promising
counter attack. Apart from that, no big talking points to highlight but
overall it wasn't a great performance by the referee.
Overall, a nervy refereeing performance by Mete Kalkavan, it didnt look like
he was confident and convinced with his own decision making, especially
after awarding that very questionable penalty to NK Domžale in the first
half. It's now all to play for next Thursday in our first competitive game
at the Olympic Stadium. We go with an away goal and Adrian single handily
saved us from even more embarrassment. With a lot of the first time
available and a strong squad, we did miss that cutting edge especially with
Antonio looking a little loss. We definitely need to turn this around and
hope Slav and the team pull together and get a result. Throughout the
season, I will be giving my opinion on decision making by referees and
analysis for The West Ham Way for as many West Ham games I can, you can
follow me on Twitter @SamRoyden and tweet me using the hashtag #TWHWRef
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK DOMZALE 2-1 WEST HAM UNITED – MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:14PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
West Ham's European Away woes continued this evening as they were beaten 2-1
in Ljubljana by NK Domzale, which means the club have now lost their last
three European ties away from home.
Their fate could've been even worse if it wasn't for a spectacular double
save near the end of the game by Adrian to keep the scoreline at 2-1.
Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead from the spot after the referee awarded a
debatable penalty when the ball struck Havard Nordtveit's arm and then he
grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal when Michail Antonio was caught
well out of position in the second half.
Mark Noble converted the Hammer's spot kick awarded for a foul by the
goalkeeper on Winston Reid.
The Hammers went into the game with a strong line-up including Adrian in
goal.
The back four consisted of Michail Antonio and Sam Byram at fullback,
Winston Reid and Norwegian International Havard Nordtveit at centreback.
Captain Mark Noble anchored the midfield with Cheikh Kouyate and Pedro
Obiang. Sofiane Feghouli started on the right wing with Enner Valencia on
the left and Andy Carroll up front.
Gokhan Tore missed the game after suffering a knock in training last night
and the Hammers were also without their three Euro 2016 players, Payet,
Collins and Ogbonna plus the injured Cresswell and Lanzini.
Slaven Bilic had to watch the game from the stands as he was serving a
suspension for his sending off against FC Astra last year when the Hammers
were eliminated from the Europa League.
Although the Hammers are still in a strong position to qualify, many of the
faithful will be concerned by this performance when a team consisting of all
first team squad players struggled to break down Domzale and looked so weak
at the back on the counter attack. They will also be frustrated with the
Manager's continual insistence to play Michail Antonio at right back.
Only time will tell if the Manager will change his stance on Antonio but
rest assured if the past is anything to go by West Ham never produce two
poor performances in a row so they should be well prepared for the second
leg to open their new Stadium next Thursday.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham winger Gokhan Tore to have knee injury scanned
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 29/07/16 8:37am
SSN
West Ham winger Gokhan Tore requires a scan on his knee injury, after being
hurt in training on Monday. The Turkish winger, spending the season on loan
from Besiktas, missed Thursday's 2-1 Europa League qualifying defeat to
Slovenian side Domzale in Ljubljana. He will be assessed on Friday but with
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini also out, assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic concedes the club's hand might be forced. "Gokhan Tore was injured
in training on Monday and he must have a scan," Jurcevic told West Ham's
official. "He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"Maybe we will possibly do something in the transfer market because we need
players in some positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are
injured and cannot play for a long time. "Next week (for the second leg
against Domzale), Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be in training so we
maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have the same squad.
"Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It was a very easy
training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his knee. "With
Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from America,
where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. "We don't know,
but we think he will not be fit for the next game against Domzale."
West Ham must win their first game at the Olympic Stadium if they are to
overturn the deficit againts Domzale and progress in the Europa League, and
Jurcevic expects significant improvement from the team. "Domzale were really
good," he added. "Our performance was not so good and maybe I can say it was
average in the first half and it was 1-1. "We were not satisfied with this
result and in the second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team
and won 2-1. "Okay, we were maybe not in our top form because it was our
first game and we were without some very important players and only had
young players on the bench but this is not an excuse. "I am sure we will be
better next week. It will be very difficult but I'm optimistic and I hope it
will be a different game in the Olympic Stadium. "It's a special game
because it's the first game at the Olympic Stadium with about 54,000
spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this game in our stadium
because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it will be very tough
because Domzale showed they are a good team."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham branded "average" after Europa League defeat to Slovenian side NK
Domzale
23:32, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 23:33, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored either side of a Mark Noble penalty to leave the Hammers
with it all to do in thrit third qualifying round tie
The Mirror
West Ham were branded "average" and "bad" by assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic after suffering a shock Europa League defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale. Domzale, the third best team in Slovenia, secured a famous 2-1
win to take into next week's third qualifying round second leg which will be
the Hammers' first game at the Olympic Stadium. Matic Crnic, the game's best
player, fired Domzale ahead from the spot after Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball. Domzale keeper Axel Maraval flattened Winston Reid
as he came out to punch clear and Mark Noble grabbed the ball to coolly
level the game. The hosts regained the lead shortly after the re-start with
a slick passing move ending with tricky winger Crnic cutting in from the
left and bending his second of the night and the winner into Adrian's far
corner. West Ham No 2 Jurcevic was dissatisfied with the Hammers' display.
"Our performance was not so good the first half," Jurcevic remarked. "It was
average it was 1-1 at half time. We were satisfied with this score but in
the second half we played bad.
"Domzale were the better team. We are not now maybe in our top form because
it is our first official game but this is not an excuse. Domzale was better
and I hope we will we better in one week in the second game. "It is a
special game first game at the stadium about 60,000 spectators and we must
be better. We must win this game in our stadium because we have big
ambitions in Europe. "But it will be tough because Domzale showed they are a
very good team. We hope we can be better." West Ham are sweating on the
fitness of summer loan signing Gokhan Tore after he suffered a knee injury
in training on the eve of the match. The Turkish winger due to have will
have a scan on the injury today.
West Ham United via GettyAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and
Gaber DobrovoljcAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and Gaber
Dobrovoljc
West Ham: Adrian 6; Antonio 4 (Quina 81, 5), Nordtveit 6, Reid 6, Byram 5;
Obiang 7, Kouyate 6; Feghouli 7, Noble 6, Valencia 6; Carroll 5.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to confirm loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri
Jonathan Calleri to join from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
22-year-old striker scored 16 goals for Brazilian club Sao Paulo last season
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic says his squad is still too small to compete
Summer target Carlos Bacca is yet to decide on a move to West Ham
By RORY O'CALLAGHAN FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:41, 29 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 29 July 2016
West Ham are set to confirm the loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan
Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado as Slaven Bilic looks to build a squad
capable of fighting on four fronts this season. The 22-year-old, who made
his name at Boca Juniors, spent the majority of the last campaign on loan at
Brazilian club Sao Paulo - scoring 16 goals in 31 appearances. Calleri, who
was reportedly a January transfer target of Chelsea last season, is regarded
as one of the most talented young strikers in South America.
JONATHAN CALLERI'S CAREER STATS
Born: September 23, 1993 (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Clubs: All Boys, Boca Juniors, Deportivo Maldonado, Sao Paulo
Appearances: 120
Goals: 45
Honours: Primera Division 2015 (Boca Juniors), Copa Argentina 2015 (Boca
Juniors)
The Argentine is set to join up with compatriot Manuel Lanzini, who could
miss the start of the season after injuring his knee on international duty
with Argentina at the Olympic Games in Rio. Calleri's arrival at West Ham
eases some of the pressure on Bilic, who admitted this week that he believes
his squad is too small to compete in the Premier League.
'We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to
join us and they are extremely quality players,' said Bilic. 'Hopefully we
are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation,
which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a
squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League.'
West Ham have been knocked back in their attempts to bolster their squad
this summer, with targets Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette both
turning down a move to the Olympic Stadium. Meanwhile, AC Milan striker
Carlos Bacca is yet to make a decision over a possible transfer to East
London after the two clubs agreed a £26million deal for the Colombian.
West Ham have already signed five new players this summer, including former
Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli, but Bilic is keen to add to his squad
before the start of the new campaign. The Hammers could be competing in four
separate competitions this season, if they can overturn a 2-1 first-leg
deficit against Slovenian club NK Domzale in the Europa League's third
qualifying round.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Former West Ham player Jack Collison is still living
his footballing dream.
By Sokkaa -29th July 2016
http://sokkaa.com/
Jack dislocated his right kneecap against Wigan Athletic in March 2009,
which led to a string of knee injuries and changed the course of his career,
which was heading into a bright direction.
Collison began his career at the age of sixteen. He scored 14 goals in 121
games for the Hammers between 2007-2014. Post retirement at a meagre age of
27, one that is considered the prime age for a footballer to peak, Jack is
still chasing his dream off the pitch. I caught up with the Ex-Welsh
international footballer to discuss life post football.
1. Describe life after football.
Interesting, would probably be the best word to describe it. At the
beginning I really struggled, it was hard to even watch a game on TV let
alone go and watch one live. But by missing a full season prior to
announcing my retirement after a brief comeback with Peterborough United, I
decided to get motivated and start planning for the future. I threw myself
into various ventures and made sure I was busy. Currently I am absolutely
loving coaching and through this I have fell back in love with the beautiful
game.
2. Very often, people and youngsters these days believe that footballers
have an easy life. How does it feel when you look back at the dreaded
injury, which changed your career plan?
If I'm honest I feel very blessed that I got a small taste of the big time.
I absolutely loved every moment of being a footballer and there is no better
feeling than walking out in front of thousands of people on a Saturday to
play the game you love. I was unfortunate in the way I had so many injuries
throughout my career, and deep down there will always be the sickening
feeling of 'what if' .people don't often get to see the endless hours in the
gym, rehabbing and that side of the game for injured players, but now I can
no longer play I appreciate the moments out on the pitch even more.
3. Is it true that Chelsea was your club as a kid? Who was your
favourite player?
Yea I used to go to Chelsea with my dad when I could. I used to love
watching Zola and it was unbelievable to play under one of my heroes at West
Ham. Even then he was the best player on the pitch, he was that good.
4. We've been hearing a lot about the Jack Collison Soccer School opened
along with your old friend. Tell us more about the school?
During a period when I was injured I decided to start a new project.
Alongside my good friend Russell short we felt there was an opportunity to
bring high class coaching to grass roots level. We have a heavy emphasis on
having fun and creating a positive environment for the kids to learn. We're
also very lucky that with our contacts we have managed to provide our JCss
kids with memorable moments, such as meeting premier league footballers and
Olympic gold medalists. I am very passionate about the soccer school and
it's been great to watch it grow.
5. In this day and age, many sportsmen opt to start some kind of
training camp or school post retirement. How would you describe yours
differently?
I believe we create a special environment with our energetic coaches. They
really inspire the kids and help them step out of their comfort zone and
enjoy playing football. We are also very lucky that we can get some
fantastic guests down and inspire the kids in that way. We try to keep it
fresh, innovative and moving with the times. I also hope our passion shines
throughout our coaching and we aim to send every kid home with a smile.
6. Let's return to West Ham days for a bit. What was your favourite
moment in a Hammers shirt?
I had a few wonderful moments. I throughly enjoyed my first goal and my
debut but the ultimate highlight would have to be getting promoted at
Wembley with West Ham. The season as a whole was an incredible journey and
winning in front of all those fans was a wonderful experience.
7. Many youngsters find it tough to deal with injuries or being side
lined these days. What advice would you give young players linking this to
your injury and the way you handled the massive news?
I would say always have a back up plan. Try and be proactive and plan for
life after football. Other than that I would say enjoy every moment whilst
your playing. You never know when it will be over so cherish every moment.
8. Is it important to be mentally tough in football? Aggression or
patience?
Yes you have to be very mentally tough and the psychology side is having a
larger impact on football. It's a lot more common nowadays for teams to use
psychologists at all levels. I have found that the kids who seem to go on
and do well have a burning desire to succeed. They throw themselves into
every situation, always looking to improve. It's almost as if you can see
the fire within certain people and that's imperative to make it. Once you
get there patience is essential as there will be many frustrating moments
alongside the great times, it's how you deal with the tough times that often
define you as a player and a person.
9. Wales had a dream tournament at the Euros. What should they do to
maintain and carry on this form until the FIFA WC in 2018?
They need to keep building on the positives. It's great news that Chris
Coleman has signed a new contract and hopefully him and his team can
continue to build something special. Now the country has had a taste of the
big time they will be keen to get the team to the World Cup. They certainly
have the players, and foundations to do that.
10. Do you see yourself as a club manager anytime soon?
I have a lot to learn in terms of management but I am really enjoying my
time with the u18s at Peterborough. However I am very motivated, always keen
to learn and strive to be the best I can possibly be. If that is enough to
get me into management then great, I certainly would love the chance.
11. I see that you're studying for a degree in sports writing and
broadcasting, what's new on that front?
Yes it is another passion of mine. I have always been a keen writer but
never published any of my work up until recently. Once again during a period
of being injured I saw the course on the PfA website and decided to try it
out. It has been very testing at times but I am half way through and very
keen to finish it off. I am also currently working on a book so watch this
space.
12. Where do you see the JC Soccer School heading in the next five years?
My partner Russell and I have big plans. We are keen to crack America and
have our second camp in Philadelphia coming up in a few weeks that we are
really excited about. We want to take it global and although we have only
been running for 18 months we have made good progress.
13. There was a JC Soccer School camp in USA recently. How were the
atmosphere and the experience??
It was an incredible experience in Boston. I have already worked with some
American kids previously and it was great to get the chance to again. They
are so competitive, and keen to learn. It's very refreshing and I'm excited
to try and create something special state side and improve the standard of
'soccer' wherever we go.
14. Shefford is a place closest to your heart. Recite some childhood
football memories?
I grew up in Shefford and had a wonderful childhood there. I still have
great relationships with the local schools and teams so it made sense to
take the soccer school to Bedfordshire. We have a great product and the
local kids seem to like what we have to offer. It's also great to see many
local people going out of their way to help us out in whatever way they can,
especially Robert Bloomfield and Samuel Whitbread schools, they have been
incredible.
15. Who will win the Premier League 2017/2018 and why?
Manchester United – simply because of Mourinho. I think he is incredible.
16. If you had to give one piece of advice to aspiring players, what would
it be?
Just to enjoy every moment. Whether it's training or a game. Love what you
do and cherish the good moments, those special wins and wonderful goals.
17. Five years down the line, what do we see Jack Collison doing?
Who knows. Maybe coaching, maybe in America. I'm really enjoying my role at
the moment and keen to improve so we will see where it takes me.
Thank you Jack for sharing your experiences with Sokkaa and we wish you the
very best for all your future endeavours.
Original interview by Tina MATEEN for Sokkaa
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham captain Mark Noble bemoans Domzale penalty but admits Hammers
deserved to lose
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
West Ham midfielder Mark Noble was not convinced by the penalty that gave NK
Domzale an early lead at Stozice Stadium. However Noble admitted the
Slovenian minnows deserved the victory that has left West Ham's Europa
League future in doubt. The Hammers enter the second leg of their Europa
League third-round qualifier with a 2-1 deficit after Matic Crnic pounced in
each half, the opener delivered from the spot after debutant Havard
Nordtveit was adjudged to have handled the ball. Captain Noble equalised
with a penalty, but West Ham were comfortably second best and their skipper
has demanded an improvement in their first outing at the Olympic Stadium
next Thursday. "I don't think it was a penalty in the first half, but you
have to get on with it and we ended up losing the game," Noble told BT
Sport. "Playing at the Olympic Stadium is something to look forward to, but
obviously this result isn't ideal. "It's our first game there and we've got
to be positive - I'm sure the fans will be behind us - and win the game.
"You're going to miss a player like Dimitri Payet of course, but that's no
excuse. We had a good enough team to come here and win but we didn't do
that. "These games are tough, but we didn't play well. They played well and
deserved it."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hungry Feghouli will provide West Ham width
Adrian Clarke 29/07/2016
The Premier League
This summer's transfer window still has over a month to run but already
we've seen a host of exciting newcomers sign for Premier League clubs. As
part of our build up to the 2016/17 campaign, tactics expert Adrian Clarke
runs the rule over what some of the new faces will offer in the coming
months. After looking at Middlesbrough's Marten de Roon, Clarke's attentions
turn to a winger hoping to make up for lost time at West Ham United. The
signing of Sofiane Feghouli is sure to give West Ham supporters yet further
cause for optimism in the club's first season at the London Stadium. The
right-sided midfielder, 26, should be approaching his peak years following
his move from Valencia. Fast, powerful and extremely positive on the ball,
Feghouli will relish the opportunity of taking on Premier League full-backs
on English soil. It's expected that the Algerian will compete with Michail
Antonio for a starting berth, but with the ex-Nottingham Forest man often
utilized at right-back, there's a possibility the two could combine to form
an athletic partnership down that side of the pitch. In many respects last
season's Hammers squad was overloaded with creators favouring to open up
defences from central positions, so by adding another touchline-hugging
winger to their ranks it creates far better balance within the group. Phil
Neville, his former coach at Valencia, once described the winger as a
big-game player, and with 10 UEFA Champions League goals to his name, there
is an element of pedigree to his record. Although far from prolific, the
Algeria international has scored between five and seven goals in each of the
last five campaigns. Last season was a virtual write-off however. After
falling out with Valencia's owner, the winger saw his game-time limited and
he grew into a figure of great frustration. With fire in his belly, a fresh
challenge, and the chance to make up for lost time in east London, Feghouli
could be just the right man for Slaven Bilic. Feghouli scored in West Ham's
3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Karlsruher SC. Watch full-match
highlights.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Daily WHUFC News - 29th July 2016
Domzale double downs Hammers
WHUFC.com
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round First Leg, Stadion Stozice,
Ljubljana, Slovenia,
West Ham United have work to do in the second leg of their UEFA Europa
League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale after falling to a 2-1
defeat in Slovenia on Thursday.
A Matic Crnic double gave the hosts a first leg advantage despite Mark
Noble's successful penalty conversion in the first half.
Luka Elsner's Domzale side were impressive and posed a threat on the break
throughout, not least from their Slovenian international Crnic on the left
hand side.
With Slaven Bilic serving the second game of a UEFA touchline ban, the
Hammers were unable to find a route back into the contest once Crnic has
re-established the hosts' lead soon after the interval and will need to up
their game at London Stadium a week today.
The visitors were dealt an early shock when Havard Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball inside the area with eleven minutes on the clock.
The Norway international was booked for his protests and Bilic's men had to
deal with falling behind as Crnic confidently beat Adrian's dive with a
well-placed penalty into the top left corner.
West Ham were not behind for long, however, as the referee pointed to the
spot again - and this time in their favour - seven minutes later.
There was no doubt about this decision as Winston Reid beat goalkeeper Axel
Maraval to flick the ball on and felt the full force of his attempted punch
clear.
Noble is Mr Reliable from the spot and he placed the ball down the middle to
register his 25th successful penalty conversion in Claret and Blue.
If a goal apiece in the opening 18 minutes represented an open start, the
game was not about to close up yet, with both sides putting more emphasis on
their attacking than defending.
Domzale were finding joy down their left flank and the goalscorer Crnic was
left in space 28 minutes in, and only just missed the onrushing men with his
dangerous low cross.
At the other end, Pedro Obiang shot not far wide of the left hand post after
Andy Carroll flicked a left-wing corner on, but the chances continued to
flow and Domzale's Marko Alvir went close with a header over the top.
As the half drew to a close the teams traded chances - Benjamin Morel
curling a free-kick over at one end before Nordtveit headed over at the
other.
Domzale's threat down the left was clear in the first half, and from that
source that they retook the lead just four minutes after the interval.
Crnic was the man on target again, cutting inside before finding the bottom
right hand corner of the net from 15 yards.
Ten minutes later, Adrian intervened crucially with a touch behind to
prevent Jure Balkovec from adding a third and the Hammers needed to regroup.
Midway through the half the visitors shifted their personnel across the
pitch, with Nordveit moving to right back, Kouyate centre half and Antonio
on the left wing.
However, it was Domzale who still looked the more threatening and Zan Majer
lined up a shot from 25 yards and Adrian had to acrobatically touch over.
Seven minutes from time Noble did well to jockey Crnic and deflect his shot
behind, and Adrian had to make a fine double save at the death, meaning the
Hammers did not have to make up more than a single-goal deficit at London
Stadium next week.
NK Domzale: Maraval; Brachi, Horic, Dobrovoljc, Balkovec; Alvir, Horvat,
Majer (Vetrih 85); Morel (Repas 77), Mance, Crnic (Juninho 90)
Subs: Klop, Milic, Vuk, Sirok, Blazic
Goals: Crnic pen 11, Crnic 49
Booked: Horvat
West Ham United: Adrian; Antonio (Quina 80), Nordtveit, Reid, Byram; Noble,
Kouyate, Obiang; Feghouli, Carroll, Valencia
Subs: Randolph, Burke, Oxford, Page, Cullen, Fletcher
Goal: Noble pen 18
Booked: Nordtveit
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
THU, 28 JUL 2016
EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING THIRD ROUND - 1ST LEG
BBC.co.uk
West Ham endured a tricky start to their season as they lost 2-1 to NK
Domzale in a Europa League qualifier in Slovenia. The Hammers are well
placed to progress in next week's second leg - the first competitive game at
the Olympic Stadium - thanks to Mark Noble's penalty. But for large periods,
Slaven Bilic's side were on the back foot. Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead
from the spot and then grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal. Next week
promises to be a sell-out encounter, with more than 50,000 inside the
Hammers' new home. Noble's penalty has given West Ham an away goal that
means a 1-0 win in the home leg will take them through. But in front of
barely 3,000 in Ljubjana - the game was moved from the home of Domzale - the
Premier League side faded badly after a bright first-half showing and looked
well short of match sharpness.
Crnic and Noble exchanged early penalties - with Domzale's awarded for a
Havard Nordtveit handball and West Ham's for a foul on Winston Reid. The
home side then went ahead at the start of the second half when Crnic cut in
from the left and curled home. West Ham goalkeeper Adrian had to be at his
best to prevent Amedej Vetrih from adding a third with a spectacular late
save. The Hammers were without last season's standout player Dimitri Payet,
and while new signing Sofiane Feghouli enjoyed an impressive start, he
barely had a touch in the second half. And at the back Bilic looks to have
problems. Michail Antonio was at fault for Crnic's second goal and looked
fragile all night, while former Leeds full-back Sam Byram looked makeshift
on the left. First-choice Aaron Cresswell is set to be out for four months
with a knee injury and Bilic may need to enter the transfer market before
the start of the season.
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THE EUROPA LEAGUE - A BLESSING OR A CURSE?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 4:57PM
TheWestHamWay.couk
Europa League 12
This article is written by Armchair Hammer
We got off to a blistering start last season. Confidence was high almost
from the first kick off. We had an (almost) fully fit squad to choose from.
A new manager to bring us a more entertaining brand of football. Some
exciting signings. And the prospect of an emotional farewell to our
spiritual home. With the benefit of hindsight, it was a season destined for
great things. That win at Arsenal set the tone for our entire season.
Fast forward twelve months and our journey begins again.
But it's a little different this year.
We have a new stadium which is a bit of a venture into the unknown. There's
some injuries to contend with to important players. The promise of big
signings hasn't materialised. Our most important players are a few weeks
behind on fitness because of their involvement with Euro 2016. And there's
the prospect of more games.
Loads more games.
You might be thinking - that's no different to last season. And you'd be
right.
But I can't help but feel the Europa League adventure last season was far
down our list of priorities.
This season, I'd expect it to be taken a little more seriously. The club
should be aiming for at least the group stages to demonstrate year on year
progression. It's reasonable to expect that as a fan and it's perfectly
achievable. Exciting, yes. But also my biggest cause for concern.
Cast your mind back to our Europa League cameo last season. We qualified
through the fair play route - which turned out to be a little ironic
considering our dismissal record in the competition. Youth were given a run
out and players like Oxford and Samuelsen were given some valuable game
time. As the rounds progressed, we saw more first teamers drafted in.
The players were gaining fitness. Rather than getting match sharpness
through a series of friendlies, we were having to compete - and win - to
progress. It meant that by the time we lined up to face Arsenal, the team
was already near full throttle. I suspect that was a decisive factor in the
win. We caught them cold.
Now this season, we are entering the Europa League a little later.
Pre-season training has reverted back to type - friendlies. With key players
(Payet and Collins) enjoying a staggered break after their summer exertions,
I doubt they'll be fully fit for the start of the season. Cresswell is out
for a few months and will be joined in the treatment room by Lanzini.
Our search for a striker is dragging on longer than the board would like it
to, I'm sure. Bringing in players from other leagues can be a tricky
process. You often see new signings struggle in the Premiership in their
first season. There's often a new language, new culture, a faster more
physical brand of football to contend with. The later players are signed in
the transfer window, the less time they have to adapt to their new
surroundings before the season starts - and for their teammates to adapt to
them.
Now those are my reasons - and here is my point.
I'm doubting our ability to start the Premier League season in the manner we
did last year - and getting that early momentum that carried us through a
brilliant season.
I hope I'm wrong.
But if I'm not, we'll need all of our best performers at their peak as we
head towards the Christmas run-in. Whether that is to enable us to stay in
touch with the top teams - or keep away from the relegation battle.
The thing is, if we don't start collecting wins early in the season, and we
qualify for the Europa League group stages, the games will come thick and
fast as we head towards the end of the year. We all know what the outcome
tends to be for teams on Sunday's that play in Europe on a Thursday.
For those of you that haven't noticed the pattern - they lose - or draw at
best. Rarely does an inexperienced team playing in Europe win a game the
following weekend.
I can hear you all groaning - telling me I'm being way too negative.
But bear with me. I'm not saying this will happen - I hope it doesn't. It
would make for an incredibly uncomfortable second half of the season.
What I want to see is Bilic using the Europa League to help develop a number
of our promising youngsters. Give them a chance to gain the experience
they'll need to push on and feature in the Premier League. They might make
mistakes - and they might lose, but it'll help them learn.
They might surprise us too - and qualify for the next round.
With our big guns securing us valuable points in the Premiership, we would
have the luxury of being able to bring them in to European games at the
latter stages, safe in the knowledge we have points on the board
domestically.
In case you are wondering, my son doesn't share my concerns. He thinks we'll
win the league - and possibly a cup. That's the beauty of youth - you're not
scarred by history.
What do you think? Am I worrying needlessly?
Are we at that stage as a club where we should be challenging on all fronts
or would you accept a lower priority for the cup competitions in order to
secure a better league finish?
I'll look forward to reading your thoughts.
COYI
Armchair Hammer
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Matic Crnic scores twice to stun Hammers in Europa
League first leg
By Tom Bennett
Last Updated: 28/07/16 9:44pm
SSN
West Ham were beaten 2-1 by NK Domzale as Matic Crnic scored twice to give
the Slovenian underdogs a narrow advantage after the first leg of the Europa
League third qualifying round tie.
Domzale took the lead against the run of play after 11 minutes on Thursday
night when a shot cannoned off the arm of debutant Havard Nordtveit and the
referee pointed to the spot.
It was a contentious decision, with the centre-back arguing that he was
unable to get out of the way, but the decision had been made and Crnic
calmly dispatched the penalty beyond Adrian.
West Ham crashed out of the Europa League at this same stage last season,
but there were no signs of nerves after going behind and it took the Hammers
just seven minutes to draw level. A spot of head tennis inside the area
resulted in Domzale goalkeeper clearing out Winston Reid with a punch to the
head, prompting the second penalty of the game - and a far less contentious
one.
The ever-reliable Mark Noble sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it
1-1, but West Ham struggled to create any further clear-cut chances in a
rusty first-half performance.
Manager Slaven Bilic, banned from the touchline as he served the second of a
two-game suspension, would have been hoping for better from his team after
the break.
But it was Domzale who stepped up a level and the hosts secured the win when
the excellent Crnic curled a finish into the far corner from the edge of the
box after getting in behind the out-of-position Antonio in the 49th minute.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Mark Noble scores away goal but Hammers slump to
defeat in Slovenia
21:34, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 21:43, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded an impressive
victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash
The Mirror
West Ham have it all to do in next week's second leg after slumping to
defeat in Slovenia. Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded
an impressive victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash. The
visitors fell behind after 11 minutes after a handball in the area, with
Crnic stepping up to fire the penalty into the top corner. However, the
Hammers levelled shortly after with a spot-kick of their own when Winston
Reid was clattered in the box.
Mark Noble stepped up to make no mistake from 12 yards. However, Domzale
restored their lead early in the second half when Crnic raced clear to fire
past Adrian. The Hammers must win at the Olympic Stadium next week to stand
any chance of progressing.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round First Leg, Stadion Stozice,
Ljubljana, Slovenia,
West Ham United have work to do in the second leg of their UEFA Europa
League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale after falling to a 2-1
defeat in Slovenia on Thursday.
A Matic Crnic double gave the hosts a first leg advantage despite Mark
Noble's successful penalty conversion in the first half.
Luka Elsner's Domzale side were impressive and posed a threat on the break
throughout, not least from their Slovenian international Crnic on the left
hand side.
With Slaven Bilic serving the second game of a UEFA touchline ban, the
Hammers were unable to find a route back into the contest once Crnic has
re-established the hosts' lead soon after the interval and will need to up
their game at London Stadium a week today.
The visitors were dealt an early shock when Havard Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball inside the area with eleven minutes on the clock.
The Norway international was booked for his protests and Bilic's men had to
deal with falling behind as Crnic confidently beat Adrian's dive with a
well-placed penalty into the top left corner.
West Ham were not behind for long, however, as the referee pointed to the
spot again - and this time in their favour - seven minutes later.
There was no doubt about this decision as Winston Reid beat goalkeeper Axel
Maraval to flick the ball on and felt the full force of his attempted punch
clear.
Noble is Mr Reliable from the spot and he placed the ball down the middle to
register his 25th successful penalty conversion in Claret and Blue.
If a goal apiece in the opening 18 minutes represented an open start, the
game was not about to close up yet, with both sides putting more emphasis on
their attacking than defending.
Domzale were finding joy down their left flank and the goalscorer Crnic was
left in space 28 minutes in, and only just missed the onrushing men with his
dangerous low cross.
At the other end, Pedro Obiang shot not far wide of the left hand post after
Andy Carroll flicked a left-wing corner on, but the chances continued to
flow and Domzale's Marko Alvir went close with a header over the top.
As the half drew to a close the teams traded chances - Benjamin Morel
curling a free-kick over at one end before Nordtveit headed over at the
other.
Domzale's threat down the left was clear in the first half, and from that
source that they retook the lead just four minutes after the interval.
Crnic was the man on target again, cutting inside before finding the bottom
right hand corner of the net from 15 yards.
Ten minutes later, Adrian intervened crucially with a touch behind to
prevent Jure Balkovec from adding a third and the Hammers needed to regroup.
Midway through the half the visitors shifted their personnel across the
pitch, with Nordveit moving to right back, Kouyate centre half and Antonio
on the left wing.
However, it was Domzale who still looked the more threatening and Zan Majer
lined up a shot from 25 yards and Adrian had to acrobatically touch over.
Seven minutes from time Noble did well to jockey Crnic and deflect his shot
behind, and Adrian had to make a fine double save at the death, meaning the
Hammers did not have to make up more than a single-goal deficit at London
Stadium next week.
NK Domzale: Maraval; Brachi, Horic, Dobrovoljc, Balkovec; Alvir, Horvat,
Majer (Vetrih 85); Morel (Repas 77), Mance, Crnic (Juninho 90)
Subs: Klop, Milic, Vuk, Sirok, Blazic
Goals: Crnic pen 11, Crnic 49
Booked: Horvat
West Ham United: Adrian; Antonio (Quina 80), Nordtveit, Reid, Byram; Noble,
Kouyate, Obiang; Feghouli, Carroll, Valencia
Subs: Randolph, Burke, Oxford, Page, Cullen, Fletcher
Goal: Noble pen 18
Booked: Nordtveit
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
THU, 28 JUL 2016
EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING THIRD ROUND - 1ST LEG
BBC.co.uk
West Ham endured a tricky start to their season as they lost 2-1 to NK
Domzale in a Europa League qualifier in Slovenia. The Hammers are well
placed to progress in next week's second leg - the first competitive game at
the Olympic Stadium - thanks to Mark Noble's penalty. But for large periods,
Slaven Bilic's side were on the back foot. Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead
from the spot and then grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal. Next week
promises to be a sell-out encounter, with more than 50,000 inside the
Hammers' new home. Noble's penalty has given West Ham an away goal that
means a 1-0 win in the home leg will take them through. But in front of
barely 3,000 in Ljubjana - the game was moved from the home of Domzale - the
Premier League side faded badly after a bright first-half showing and looked
well short of match sharpness.
Crnic and Noble exchanged early penalties - with Domzale's awarded for a
Havard Nordtveit handball and West Ham's for a foul on Winston Reid. The
home side then went ahead at the start of the second half when Crnic cut in
from the left and curled home. West Ham goalkeeper Adrian had to be at his
best to prevent Amedej Vetrih from adding a third with a spectacular late
save. The Hammers were without last season's standout player Dimitri Payet,
and while new signing Sofiane Feghouli enjoyed an impressive start, he
barely had a touch in the second half. And at the back Bilic looks to have
problems. Michail Antonio was at fault for Crnic's second goal and looked
fragile all night, while former Leeds full-back Sam Byram looked makeshift
on the left. First-choice Aaron Cresswell is set to be out for four months
with a knee injury and Bilic may need to enter the transfer market before
the start of the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE EUROPA LEAGUE - A BLESSING OR A CURSE?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 4:57PM
TheWestHamWay.couk
Europa League 12
This article is written by Armchair Hammer
We got off to a blistering start last season. Confidence was high almost
from the first kick off. We had an (almost) fully fit squad to choose from.
A new manager to bring us a more entertaining brand of football. Some
exciting signings. And the prospect of an emotional farewell to our
spiritual home. With the benefit of hindsight, it was a season destined for
great things. That win at Arsenal set the tone for our entire season.
Fast forward twelve months and our journey begins again.
But it's a little different this year.
We have a new stadium which is a bit of a venture into the unknown. There's
some injuries to contend with to important players. The promise of big
signings hasn't materialised. Our most important players are a few weeks
behind on fitness because of their involvement with Euro 2016. And there's
the prospect of more games.
Loads more games.
You might be thinking - that's no different to last season. And you'd be
right.
But I can't help but feel the Europa League adventure last season was far
down our list of priorities.
This season, I'd expect it to be taken a little more seriously. The club
should be aiming for at least the group stages to demonstrate year on year
progression. It's reasonable to expect that as a fan and it's perfectly
achievable. Exciting, yes. But also my biggest cause for concern.
Cast your mind back to our Europa League cameo last season. We qualified
through the fair play route - which turned out to be a little ironic
considering our dismissal record in the competition. Youth were given a run
out and players like Oxford and Samuelsen were given some valuable game
time. As the rounds progressed, we saw more first teamers drafted in.
The players were gaining fitness. Rather than getting match sharpness
through a series of friendlies, we were having to compete - and win - to
progress. It meant that by the time we lined up to face Arsenal, the team
was already near full throttle. I suspect that was a decisive factor in the
win. We caught them cold.
Now this season, we are entering the Europa League a little later.
Pre-season training has reverted back to type - friendlies. With key players
(Payet and Collins) enjoying a staggered break after their summer exertions,
I doubt they'll be fully fit for the start of the season. Cresswell is out
for a few months and will be joined in the treatment room by Lanzini.
Our search for a striker is dragging on longer than the board would like it
to, I'm sure. Bringing in players from other leagues can be a tricky
process. You often see new signings struggle in the Premiership in their
first season. There's often a new language, new culture, a faster more
physical brand of football to contend with. The later players are signed in
the transfer window, the less time they have to adapt to their new
surroundings before the season starts - and for their teammates to adapt to
them.
Now those are my reasons - and here is my point.
I'm doubting our ability to start the Premier League season in the manner we
did last year - and getting that early momentum that carried us through a
brilliant season.
I hope I'm wrong.
But if I'm not, we'll need all of our best performers at their peak as we
head towards the Christmas run-in. Whether that is to enable us to stay in
touch with the top teams - or keep away from the relegation battle.
The thing is, if we don't start collecting wins early in the season, and we
qualify for the Europa League group stages, the games will come thick and
fast as we head towards the end of the year. We all know what the outcome
tends to be for teams on Sunday's that play in Europe on a Thursday.
For those of you that haven't noticed the pattern - they lose - or draw at
best. Rarely does an inexperienced team playing in Europe win a game the
following weekend.
I can hear you all groaning - telling me I'm being way too negative.
But bear with me. I'm not saying this will happen - I hope it doesn't. It
would make for an incredibly uncomfortable second half of the season.
What I want to see is Bilic using the Europa League to help develop a number
of our promising youngsters. Give them a chance to gain the experience
they'll need to push on and feature in the Premier League. They might make
mistakes - and they might lose, but it'll help them learn.
They might surprise us too - and qualify for the next round.
With our big guns securing us valuable points in the Premiership, we would
have the luxury of being able to bring them in to European games at the
latter stages, safe in the knowledge we have points on the board
domestically.
In case you are wondering, my son doesn't share my concerns. He thinks we'll
win the league - and possibly a cup. That's the beauty of youth - you're not
scarred by history.
What do you think? Am I worrying needlessly?
Are we at that stage as a club where we should be challenging on all fronts
or would you accept a lower priority for the cup competitions in order to
secure a better league finish?
I'll look forward to reading your thoughts.
COYI
Armchair Hammer
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Matic Crnic scores twice to stun Hammers in Europa
League first leg
By Tom Bennett
Last Updated: 28/07/16 9:44pm
SSN
West Ham were beaten 2-1 by NK Domzale as Matic Crnic scored twice to give
the Slovenian underdogs a narrow advantage after the first leg of the Europa
League third qualifying round tie.
Domzale took the lead against the run of play after 11 minutes on Thursday
night when a shot cannoned off the arm of debutant Havard Nordtveit and the
referee pointed to the spot.
It was a contentious decision, with the centre-back arguing that he was
unable to get out of the way, but the decision had been made and Crnic
calmly dispatched the penalty beyond Adrian.
West Ham crashed out of the Europa League at this same stage last season,
but there were no signs of nerves after going behind and it took the Hammers
just seven minutes to draw level. A spot of head tennis inside the area
resulted in Domzale goalkeeper clearing out Winston Reid with a punch to the
head, prompting the second penalty of the game - and a far less contentious
one.
The ever-reliable Mark Noble sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it
1-1, but West Ham struggled to create any further clear-cut chances in a
rusty first-half performance.
Manager Slaven Bilic, banned from the touchline as he served the second of a
two-game suspension, would have been hoping for better from his team after
the break.
But it was Domzale who stepped up a level and the hosts secured the win when
the excellent Crnic curled a finish into the far corner from the edge of the
box after getting in behind the out-of-position Antonio in the 49th minute.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Mark Noble scores away goal but Hammers slump to
defeat in Slovenia
21:34, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 21:43, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded an impressive
victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash
The Mirror
West Ham have it all to do in next week's second leg after slumping to
defeat in Slovenia. Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded
an impressive victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash. The
visitors fell behind after 11 minutes after a handball in the area, with
Crnic stepping up to fire the penalty into the top corner. However, the
Hammers levelled shortly after with a spot-kick of their own when Winston
Reid was clattered in the box.
Mark Noble stepped up to make no mistake from 12 yards. However, Domzale
restored their lead early in the second half when Crnic raced clear to fire
past Adrian. The Hammers must win at the Olympic Stadium next week to stand
any chance of progressing.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 28
Daily WHUFC News II - 28th July 2016
Opposition View - NK Domzale
WHUFC.com
Thursday's UEFA Europa League qualifier against NK Domzale in Ljubljana promises not only to be a huge occasion for the Slovenian club, but also for the nation's football as a whole. Domzale finished third in their domestic league last season and possess experience of facing teams from the likes of Germany and Croatia in European competition, but according to journalist Joze Okorn from the national daily newspaper Dnevnik, this match sits on another level.
The Slovenian side have seen off Andorran side Lusitans and Shakhtyor Soligorsk of Belarus to earn the right to face the Hammers and they will be giving their all to try and cause a shock Okorn explained: "This is the biggest match for the Domzale club. They have been in UEFA Champions League qualification before and twice played Dinamo Zagreb. "The champions Olimpija Ljubljana went out in the second round of Champions League qualifiers this year, so this is one of the biggest matches in Slovenian club football this season.
"English football is so popular in Slovenia – it's the top level of football for us, so it is a really big game. "The match is even more interesting because of Slaven Bilic, and him being from Croatia. "He is a good coach, and a good player for the national team beforehand. It is a very interesting match for the Slovenian people and the Croatian people – some of them will be coming over because it is not very far from Zagreb or Rijeka."
Domzale's domestic season has already begun, with a win over Radomlje and a draw with Krsko leaving them third in the embryonic league table. However, Okorn says the Hammers should expect to face a very different side to that which lined-up for that 1-1 draw in Krsko. He added: "Domzale have been playing their second team in first two league games, in which they have won one and drawn one so far. Only two players played the last game in Krsko, who started the last match in the Europa League. "Just Balkovec on the left hand side and Alvir in the middle started both – the other nine players were from the second team. "The players to look out for on Domzale are the French midfielder Benjamin Morel, who has come back to the club after going to Bulgaria last season, and the left winger Matic Crnic, who plays for the Slovenian national team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble ready for competitive start
WHUFC.com
Skipper confirms squad's intention to go all the way in the UEFA Europa League
Midfielder pleased with the progress of the squad
Noble expects more competition at the top of the Premier League
West Ham United captain Mark Noble expects a tough challenge in Thursday night's game against NK Domzale, but insists that the side will not be holding back to ensure a place in the next round of the UEFA Europa League. With four games standing between the Hammers and the group stages of the tournament, Noble expects last season's experience in Europe to stand the squad in good stead. The midfielder said: "Our experience last year shows it is going to be tough, no matter who you play. We play on Thursday and then NK Domzale come to our fantastic new Stadium next week. It's going to be our first time there and their first time there. "They will get that boost when you play in a stadium like ours and will run that extra ten yards. We need to match that, we didn't manage that last year and we almost didn't expect it with the squad split in two as it was. "But we got knocked out of Europe on the Thursday and then beat Arsenal on the Sunday and it is all forgotten. We know how quickly things are forgotten in football."
The Hammers captain is positive about the squad and explained: "We have had our squad together for four weeks now and so, we will give it a proper go this time. We have got a lot of belief at the Club at the moment. Everyone's excited by the new Stadium and we have a new training ground as well, so that will be new to us. "Last year, I had the best season of my career, both personally and collectively as a squad. We had flair combined with a hardworking team. We gave the Boleyn a good send off and now, it is time for us to create history at the new place. That is down to us. "We've got three very astute signings in Havard, Sofiane and Gokhan. The team spirit was great last season and that is always our main aim, to keep that spirit high. We are excited and from what we can see, everybody else is too. "It is going to be tough this year, there are seven of the best managers in the world working in the Premier League now. "There are only four spots for Champions League football. Manchester United and Chelsea will be going for the title this year. Can you see them having similar seasons to last year? Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and the talent he has got will be challenging too. We will try our best, that's all we can do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley praises second half showing in Holland
WHUFC.com
Dev Squad boss Terry Westley was pleased to see his side come from behind against PEC Zwolle
The team were playing in their first Netherlands pre-season tour fixture
After falling 2-0 and 3-1 behind, the youngsters hit back to draw 3-3 on Wednesday
Development Squad manager Terry Westley praised his side's second half performance as they came from behind to pick up a draw against PEC Zwolle in the Netherlands. After the hosts raced into a two-goal lead in the 3-3 draw, the Hammers pulled one back through Sam Ford shortly before half time to reduce to deficit. And, though Zwolle added a third seconds before the break, the east Londoners put on a second 45 masterclass as they passed the Dutch side off the park, scoring twice in the process through Joe Powell and Jahmal Hector-Ingram to level. And after watching his men come out fighting to gain a draw, Westley had little but good things to say about the young Hammers. He said: "It was a good performance against a team I consider to be good opposition. They were very technical and tactically aware of what they needed to do, and they caused our boys some problems early on. "We started off on the back foot and conceded early, but slowly got to grips with it, and second half, we did very well. I was really pleased. "Second half, we managed to get a little bit closer to them and got up against them and nicked the ball in a lot of forward positions. The third goal was a good team goal; it went back and through and then a good cross and finish by Jahmal [Hector-Ingram]."
Hector-Ingram – who has now scored in consecutive Dev Squad fixtures – impressed Westley, as did a number of other members of the team. "Jahmal kept searching and kept trying to get in behind and caused some problems," the boss continued. "The two centre-halves, Jake Eggleton and Tunji [Akinola] kept us together, and Sam Howes made some saves which he needed to. "Young Conor Coventry got us playing when he came on. But if I picked one individual, Kristjian Belic – 15-years-of-age playing in a mens' game – really stood out.
"We're working very hard in training. It's not easy to take it into a game. We had a lot of replacements today but we were able not to play a few, too. We have some coming back with for us in the last big game before the start of the season so we look forward to that on Saturday."
The Dev Squad face West Ham's partner club VVV Venlo in the Netherlands on Saturday, with a 2pm kick-off UK time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces - Italian Irons
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's double header of games in Austria and Slovenia this week has presented a unique opportunity for one locally based fan. Italian Iron Paolo Barbuio would normally only be able to travel to a handful of games a season, but living near Venice – 279 miles from Kapfenberg, where the Hammers took on Karlsruher SC on Saturday, and 151 miles from Ljubljana – has given him the opportunity to watch his team twice in a matter of days. The Hammers are looking to progress to the group stages of the UEFA Europa League and Barbuio, whose interest in the Hammers was stoked by the presence of a certain legendary countryman in the early 2000s, is delighted to be there at the start of the journey.
He said: "We were very happy to be in Austria last weekend and it was great to have West Ham so close to us. "We come from Italy, near Venice, so we were happy that the team is here, near to our town, and we hope that the season ahead will be very good. "With the Europa League game in Ljubljana too, we will be there and we hope to see another win!
"I have followed West Ham since 2000, when Paolo Di Canio arrived in London, and I began to travel to London to see the matches in 2009. "My first match was against Hull City at Upton Park. We won 3-0, and I remember Valon Behrami scoring. "The last match I went to was West Ham-Sunderland in February, when Michail Antonio scored. Upton Park was a beautiful Stadium and I look forward to getting across to London again soon."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Elsner - We will put all our passion on the pitch
WHUFC.com
NK Domzale boss looking forward to Hammers challenge
Former Domzale player Elsner focused on delivering strong performance
Elsner impressed with Slaven Bilic's impact at West Ham
Richard Laverty talks to NK Domzale manager Luka Elsner ahead of Thursday's momentous clash with the Hammers…
Tucked away in a town consisting of just 12,000 people, 33-year-old Luka Elsner is preparing his NK Domzale side for the tie of a lifetime, West Ham United at home before a trip to London Stadium next week for the return leg of their Europa League third qualifying round match.
Domzale's stadium is so small that Thursday's match has been relocated to the 16,000 Stadion Stozice in nearby Ljubljana - their own stadium holds less than 3,000. Despite their size, Elsner's hard work and determination has made him a success at the club he also played for.
"We have a clear vision, we have had that same picture for almost two decades," says Elsner.
"We are developing young players through our academy, trying to produce the best talents and work with them and give them a place to be competitive. Eventually, these players go abroad when we have done what we can for them, it is very difficult for us to get a budget together every season but we do what we can."
Despite the enormity of the task ahead of them, Domzale aren't giving any extra attention to their esteemed opponents, on Monday afternoon Elsner had just finished an analysis session on their previous round opponents – Shakhtyor Soligorsk – when we speak about the upcoming match.
"This is an elite level match for us but we have to find some way of giving our players hope through the analysis, we will look at where we can see good things for us and how we can survive against a team like West Ham. We have to stand up on the field, protect ourselves and try to make them play a different way to what they're used to."
In a week's time, Elsner will bring his coaches, players and a large chunk of Domzale to London and will go down in history as the first side to play a competitive match at the former Olympic Stadium.
Whilst the manager is excited at the prospect of such an occasion, he admits "we can't go there thinking we are tourists" if his side want to pick up a positive result.
"It's a double challenge," he says. "You want to be competitive but you have to be professional in how you prepare for them, of course we are all very excited. We have the first game here in Ljubljana, we can go there and take pictures but we have a game to focus on and it will only remain in our memories in a positive way if we go there and put in a good performance."
So how does a team based in a small town of 12,000 people continuously push the boundaries of what is possible and take it to the biggest names in Slovenian football? Elsner chuckles at the mention of Lincoln Red Imps' victory over Celtic but he's adamant his team will do their best to be competitive.
"We'll need to play at our maximum, every player on the team will need to do that and we'll probably need some luck as well!"
"They are missing some huge players and maybe physically won't be at their best but they still have some fantastic players. It seems impossible [for us] but we will put all our passion out on the pitch because sometimes passion can do the job and you can surprise people in many ways."
Like Slaven Bilic, Elsner was born in ex-Yugoslavia and also played for the team he currently managed, although his tenure as a player at Domzale was much longer than that of Bilic's at West Ham United.
"This is my first meeting with him in football, it was very refreshing to see what he did last year, we were impressed if not inspired by what he did.
"Maybe people in the Premier League didn't know much about him as a coach but you can only respect him for how much he surprised everybody.
"He [Bilic] has a connection with his club as I do with Domzale, we both have a connection to the identity of our clubs. I think it gives you an advantage but at the end of the day you learn in the job all the time but you do get an extra energy from managing a team you have played for."
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West Ham's Mark Noble not banking on England call from Sam Allardyce
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 28/07/16 12:53pm
SSN
Mark Noble insists he is focused only on playing football rather than trying to get into the England squad under new manager Sam Allardyce. The West Ham captain expressed his extreme disappointment at not being given a chance to prove himself at international level by Roy Hodgson in the lead up to Euro 2016. Allardyce was among those stating Noble's case for England recognition during his four years in charge at Upton Park but the midfielder says he is not banking on a call-up now his former boss is in charge. "I'm just concentrating on football - I have since I've started playing," said Noble, who was capped 20 times at U21 level between 2007 and 2009. "Obviously last year I was disappointed, I'm not going to lie to you. I enjoyed a fantastic season with West Ham... not only just me - the likes of Cress [Aaron Cresswell] was one of the best left-backs in the league for sure. "There was a lot of shout about Michail Antonio and big Andy Carroll as a difference up there, which I thought we needed at points in the Euros but I'm just going to concentrate on football."
Whether Noble forces his way into the England squad or not, the 29-year-old is certain the national team is in good hands. "Obviously I worked under Sam for a long time," he added. "I know the way he works, he's a very good man. "Do I think England made the right choice? Yes, because he knows how to sort stuff out in a way. He's a great man-manager, he knows how to get the best out of his players. "I think with England, they've gone with someone that knows English players, knows the English league and has a good relationship with the FA. They've called upon him to sort it out."
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham still need 'one or two' new signings
By Mark Crellin
Last Updated: 28/07/16 2:16pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is worried his squad is not currently big enough for the rigours of the upcoming Premier League season. The Hammers have been linked with several strikers this summer, most recently Carlos Bacca of AC Milan, and Bilic is hopeful of welcoming 'one or two new faces' before the end of the transfer window. "To get those kind of strikers, we as a club, we couldn't fight with the big guns," he said. "So we had to be very early, before them, and/or give more money to the players. And then it is also hard.
"But I said we are not going to buy just for the sake of buying, and that includes strikers as well. "Also, I told the chairman a couple of days ago that I can understand for some players we are not their number one target, but I told him that I also don't want to buy the players who don't want to come to us."
Manuel Lanzini could miss the start of the season with a knee injury, having been ruled out of the Rio Olympics, where he was due to represent Argentina. And Bilic suggested the attacking midfielder's possible absence makes the need to get involved in the transfer market more pressing. "Now we have a different strategy," he said. "We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to join us and they are extremely quality players. "Hopefully we are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation, which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League."
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Slaven Bilic shares what he's told David Gold about transfer at West Ham United
HITC
John Verrall
@JohnVerrall
West Ham United have been frustrated in their search for a striker this summer. Slaven Bilic has informed the Daily Mirror that he has told West Ham United chairman David Gold that he doesn't want to buy players who do not want to be at the Olympic Stadium. West Ham have submitted bids for a number of high profile signings this summer, with Alexandre Lacazette and Carlos Bacca two of their most exciting targets. However, Lacazette and Bacca both expressed a reluctance to move to the Hammers, and Bilic has suggested that his side have other players in mind now. Bilic explained: "I said that we won't buy just for the sake of buying and that includes the strikers as well. "Also I told the chairman a couple of days ago I can understand for some players that we are not number one target. I told him also that I also don't want to buy the players who don't want to come to us so I said that is it. "Now we have a little bit of a different strategy and we are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to join us and they are extremely quality players."
Gold has hinted that West Ham may still invest big money in a striker, but doing so has proven problematic so far. West Ham are known to be aiming to strengthen their forward ranks, with Jonathan Calleri the latest player to be linked. Despite their struggles to add a striker, West Ham have still had a fairly productive summer transfer window to date.
The Hammers have brought in a handful of new signings, with the likes of Havard Nordtveit, Sofiane Feghouli and Gokhan Tore all joining. Tottenham's Andros Townsend (L) in action with Besiktas' Gokhan Tore West Ham play their first competitive match of the season later this evening, against NK Domzale in the Europa League.
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Arsenal plot £16.8m move for West Ham target: Gonzalo Higuain deal sparks interest
ARSENAL are reportedly planning to rival two London sides in a bid to sign Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic, who is free to leave the club.
By JOE SHORT
PUBLISHED: 12:00, Thu, Jul 28, 2016 | UPDATED: 12:30, Thu, Jul 28, 2016
Express.co.uk
Juventus signed Napoli frontman Gonzalo Higuain for £75million this week and they are now open to offers for Mandzukic. And the Turin club's willingness to listen to bids has reportedly triggered Arsenal's interest. That is according to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, who claim Watford have also considered an offer for the Croatia international.
West Ham are said to be keen on landing Mandzukic, 30, this summer in a £16.8million (€20m) deal. The Hammers have £30m ringfenced in manager Slaven Bilic's transfer kitty to spend on a striker. It is reported that Mandzukic is happy in Italy and has not been tempted by interest from either West Ham or Watford - but that a deal with Arsenal could turn his head. Arsenal have already failed with moves for Leicester's Jamie Vardy and Alexandre Lacazette of Lyon this summer as manager Arsene Wenger seeks to bring in a new striker.
Mandzukic scored 10 goals in 27 league appearances for Juve last season as the club won a fifth straight Serie A title. He only joined Juve last summer from Atletico Madrid in a £13.6m deal and failed to score in three appearances for Croatia at Euro 2016.
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Domzale vs West Ham: What time does the Europa League qualifier start, what channel is it on, where can I watch it?
Everything you need to know ahead of the third qualifying-round clash in Slovenia
Samuel Stevens
The Independent
West Ham United start their Europa League journey this evening in Slovenia when they take on Domžale in the third qualifying round at the Stozice Stadium. Slaven Bilic, the Hammers manager, says supporters of the East End club "can expect good things" ahead of the new season as they prepare to formally move into the Olympic Stadium next Thursday in the return fixture. Despite challenging to finish in the Champions League places in the Croat's first season in charge last time around, West Ham ultimately had to settle for seventh place behind Southampton and Manchester United. "We are happy with our preparations," Bilic told the official club website. "We have done everything that wanted to do, but still we have to make a balance in our preparations to compromise some things because the competitive games don't start on August 15, they start on Thursday. "It's not ideal but I'm really pleased with the way we've trained. We are still expecting a few players to come back, those who have been playing in the European Championships. If we continue to work hard like this, with dedication and humility, we can expect good things."
When is it?
Kick-off at the Stozice Stadium, in the Slovenia city of Domžale, is at 7.45pm BST.
Where can I watch it?
The match will be covered on BT Sport 2 with the broadcast starting at 7.30pm and also being available across the company's digital platforms and mobile apps.
Who is likely to play?
West Ham are without a number of the players who represented their county at the European Championship meaning there'll be no Dimitri Payet for tonight's clash in Slovenia.
Diafra Sakho, Manuel Lanzini and Aaron Cresswell are all ruled out with injury or otherwise while new signing Sofianne Feghouli is set to continue his encouraging pre-season.
West Ham's pre-season diary
vs Seattle Sounders, 6 July - lost 3-0.
vs Carolina Rail Hawks, 13 July - drew 2-2.
vs FC Slovacko, 19 July - drew 2-2.
vs Rubin Kazan, 23 July - won 3-0.
vs Karlsruher SC, 23 July - lost 3-0.
vs Domzale (a), 28 July.
vs Domzale (h), 4 August.
vs Juventus (h), 7 August.
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham won't spend big money on a new striker just for the sake of it
11:06, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 11:06, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
The Hammers have failed in bids for a number of big-name strikers this summer after earmarking £30million to spend on a new frontman
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham won't splash the cash on a big-name striker just for the sake of it. And Bilic admitted they have now changed the type of player they are looking for after being left frustrated in their attempts to land a marquee name. The Hammers had set aside £30m to spend on a top 20-goal a season frontman to bolster their squad. But so far they have been unable to land one despite making approaches for Michy Batshuayi , who joined Chelsea, Liverpool's Christian Benteke, Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette and AC Milan's Carlos Bacca. One stumbling block for the Hammers has been the fact most of their targets are holding out for Champions League football. Bilic said: "We have tried. To get that kind of striker, we as a club couldn't fight with the big guns so we had to bid very early, like before them, or give more money to the players and then it is also hard. "But I said that we won't buy just for the sake of buying and that includes the strikers as well. "Also I told the chairman a couple of days ago I can understand for some players that we are not number one target. I told him also that I also don't want to buy the players who don't want to come to us so I said that is it."
Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri, 22, who is currently on loan at Sao Paulo, has emerged as one attainable target and the Hammers are in negotiations to bring him to the Olympic Stadium. Bilic added: "Now we have a little bit of a different strategy and we are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to join us and they are extremely quality players and hopefully we are going to do one or two of them depending on Manuel Lanzini's injury situation which we are going to know only in a few days time.
"Because still we don't have a squad big enough to compete, not even in the Premier League not to mention this competition the Europa League, hopefully with more games."
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West Ham's Reece Oxford wants first-team assurances with Slaven Bilic set to unveil new signings in Europa League
KEN DYER
Evening Standard
West Ham will parade their new signings on Thursday evening, but home-grown teenager Reece Oxford will also be the centre of much attention. The defender joined West Ham's pre-season training camp in Austria after playing for England in the European Under-19 Championships and is expected to feature in the Europa League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale in Slovenia. Oxford, who became the second youngest player to be involved in a Premier League match when he started the opening game of last season at Arsenal, will be looking to impress the West Ham manager. The 17-year-old's future remains uncertain following interest from several clubs in recent weeks, including Manchester United.
West Ham valued him at £18million but ideally want to keep him. Oxford, meanwhile, is looking for assurances on greater first-team involvement, particularly with the vacuum caused by central defender James Tomkins' £10m move to Crystal Palace. Norwegian Havard Nordtveit, a free transfer this summer from Borussia Monchengladbach, is expected to fill one of the central defensive positions against NK Domzale as James Collins and Angelo Ogbonna remain unavailable following their involvement in the Euros. Algeria winger Sofiane Feghouli is expected to start in this first leg while Gokhan Tore, on loan from Besiktas, will also be involved. But Dimitri Payet misses the game as he is in the early stages of pre-season training following the Euros.
Aaron Cresswell is also out with a lengthy knee injury while Manuel Lanzini is returning to the club for treatment after being ruled out of the Argentina squad for the Olympics.
With Domzale's stadium ruled inadequate, tonight's match has been moved to the Stozice Stadium in Ljubljana, which has a capacity of just over 16,000 fans. West Ham boss Slaven Bilic admitted that the Europa League "damages your chances in the Premier League" but added: "We want to try, we want to take that risk and hopefully we are going to manage it."
Bilic has been pleased with his summer additions, saying: "We didn't buy just for the sake of it. We wanted to buy quality."
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West Ham captain Mark Noble 'shocked' after Tony Carr is offered redundancy package by the Hammers
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
West Ham captain Mark Noble has expressed his shock at the departure of the Hammers' former academy director Tony Carr. Carr, 65, was instrumental in the production of a long line of England internationals at the east London club, including the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Glen Johnson, Jermain Defoe, Joe Cole and Michael Carrick. But, after 43 years of service, Carr has left his role as a club ambassador after being told the position was no longer full time. Carr has labelled the minimum statutory redundancy payment of £14,000 offered to him as "paltry" while West Ham fans spelled out their anger online. The club have now confirmed Carr has left his position with immediate effect after his two-year contract came to an end and Noble, who worked with Carr throughout his career, has praised the impact he had. "I first saw it in the papers," he told the Daily Mail. "It was a shock to me. "I don't know what's gone on in the background, I've been in Austria for two weeks solid [on a training camp], but what I can say is I know Tony very well.
"He's a fantastic man, a great servant to the club. As we all know, the players he's brought through in the last 20, 25 years have been phenomenal. The players Tony Carr brought through at West Ham "I'm looking forward to getting back to Tony and seeing how he is. I don't know what's gone on between him and the club. "My own personal experiences with Tony have been fantastic. He helped me become the player I am today," insisted Noble.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic warns one top Premier League manager will be 'slaughtered' for missing out on top four
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
At least one of the Premier League's high-profile managers will be "slaughtered" for failing to secure a top-four finish next season, according to West Ham boss Slaven Bilic.
Competition for Champions League places is set to be fiercer than ever next season with Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham all tussling for position.
The Hammers, who start their Europa League campaign against Slovenian side NK Domzale tonight, will also be hoping to do enough to force their way into Europe's elite after finishing seventh last term. But Bilic is wary that with so many sides aiming for the top four someone will have to fall short - and can expect plenty of criticism as a result.
"The managers like Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Antonio Conte, Arsene Wenger, there are five of them and one has to finish fifth," he told the Daily Mail. "If they are the top five - one of them is going to get slaughtered and they are all big names. "Spurs will probably be unhappy to finish sixth. Everton, and all that," he added.
However, although plenty of clubs will be focused on competing at the top of the table, Bilic believes the majority of the division's target will be to accumulate 40 points and avoid relegation, including champions Leicester City. "Therefore when we talk about Champions League, Europa League, mid-table, it is all very dangerous. Make no mistake. "I am a confident, over-optimistic person but apart from the top seven clubs on paper everybody is looking forward to 40 points. And that includes Leicester," said the Croatian.
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West Ham's Olympic home could be rebranded the Tesco Stadium with supermarket giant to bid for naming rights
Indian company, the Mahindra Group were expected to complete a £6million deal for the naming rights of the Olympic Stadium
It's been delayed several times as sponsorship market is in a state of flux
Tesco is keen to talk with the London Legacy Development Corporation
West Ham would receive £1m from any naming rights deal
By MARTHA KELNER FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:34, 27 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:34, 28 July 2016
West Ham's new home could be known as the Tesco Stadium after it emerged the supermarket giant is poised to join the race to secure the renaming rights for the Olympic Stadium.
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) had been expected to complete a £6million deal with Indian company, the Mahindra Group, a technology giant and car maker. Sportsmail understands that there is uncertainty surrounding the pending deal with the period of exclusivity with Mahindra due to expire in August. The deal with Mahindra was set to be announced before new tenants West Ham moved out of Upton Park in May but has been delayed several times because the sponsorship market is in a state of flux. If they do not go ahead it is thought Tesco is keen to open talks with the LLDC about joining the race. Under the terms of West Ham's tenancy of the stadium, the club are entitled to 50 per cent of the annual revenue from naming rights above the initial £4m so would receive £1m from any deal. The stadium in Stratford, east London, cost £701m to build, paid for from the public purse. West Ham will play their first game there a week on Thursday when they face Slovenian side Domzale in the second leg of their Europa League qualifier before the official unveiling in a prestige friendly against Juventus on Sunday week. The first Premier League game will be against Bournemouth on August 21. At the Anniversary Games athletics event, held at the stadium last weekend, stakeholders were asked to refer to it simply as the London Stadium. Tesco has been involved in sport sponsorship in the past, becoming an official sponsor of England's doomed World Cup campaign in South Africa in 2010. In 2008, the supermarket chain also signed a three-year deal to sponsor the East Stand at Swansea's Liberty Stadium. But purchasing the naming rights to the former Olympic Stadium, which has been reduced in capacity from 78,000 to 60,000 since London 2012, would be their biggest move yet.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Thursday's UEFA Europa League qualifier against NK Domzale in Ljubljana promises not only to be a huge occasion for the Slovenian club, but also for the nation's football as a whole. Domzale finished third in their domestic league last season and possess experience of facing teams from the likes of Germany and Croatia in European competition, but according to journalist Joze Okorn from the national daily newspaper Dnevnik, this match sits on another level.
The Slovenian side have seen off Andorran side Lusitans and Shakhtyor Soligorsk of Belarus to earn the right to face the Hammers and they will be giving their all to try and cause a shock Okorn explained: "This is the biggest match for the Domzale club. They have been in UEFA Champions League qualification before and twice played Dinamo Zagreb. "The champions Olimpija Ljubljana went out in the second round of Champions League qualifiers this year, so this is one of the biggest matches in Slovenian club football this season.
"English football is so popular in Slovenia – it's the top level of football for us, so it is a really big game. "The match is even more interesting because of Slaven Bilic, and him being from Croatia. "He is a good coach, and a good player for the national team beforehand. It is a very interesting match for the Slovenian people and the Croatian people – some of them will be coming over because it is not very far from Zagreb or Rijeka."
Domzale's domestic season has already begun, with a win over Radomlje and a draw with Krsko leaving them third in the embryonic league table. However, Okorn says the Hammers should expect to face a very different side to that which lined-up for that 1-1 draw in Krsko. He added: "Domzale have been playing their second team in first two league games, in which they have won one and drawn one so far. Only two players played the last game in Krsko, who started the last match in the Europa League. "Just Balkovec on the left hand side and Alvir in the middle started both – the other nine players were from the second team. "The players to look out for on Domzale are the French midfielder Benjamin Morel, who has come back to the club after going to Bulgaria last season, and the left winger Matic Crnic, who plays for the Slovenian national team."
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Noble ready for competitive start
WHUFC.com
Skipper confirms squad's intention to go all the way in the UEFA Europa League
Midfielder pleased with the progress of the squad
Noble expects more competition at the top of the Premier League
West Ham United captain Mark Noble expects a tough challenge in Thursday night's game against NK Domzale, but insists that the side will not be holding back to ensure a place in the next round of the UEFA Europa League. With four games standing between the Hammers and the group stages of the tournament, Noble expects last season's experience in Europe to stand the squad in good stead. The midfielder said: "Our experience last year shows it is going to be tough, no matter who you play. We play on Thursday and then NK Domzale come to our fantastic new Stadium next week. It's going to be our first time there and their first time there. "They will get that boost when you play in a stadium like ours and will run that extra ten yards. We need to match that, we didn't manage that last year and we almost didn't expect it with the squad split in two as it was. "But we got knocked out of Europe on the Thursday and then beat Arsenal on the Sunday and it is all forgotten. We know how quickly things are forgotten in football."
The Hammers captain is positive about the squad and explained: "We have had our squad together for four weeks now and so, we will give it a proper go this time. We have got a lot of belief at the Club at the moment. Everyone's excited by the new Stadium and we have a new training ground as well, so that will be new to us. "Last year, I had the best season of my career, both personally and collectively as a squad. We had flair combined with a hardworking team. We gave the Boleyn a good send off and now, it is time for us to create history at the new place. That is down to us. "We've got three very astute signings in Havard, Sofiane and Gokhan. The team spirit was great last season and that is always our main aim, to keep that spirit high. We are excited and from what we can see, everybody else is too. "It is going to be tough this year, there are seven of the best managers in the world working in the Premier League now. "There are only four spots for Champions League football. Manchester United and Chelsea will be going for the title this year. Can you see them having similar seasons to last year? Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and the talent he has got will be challenging too. We will try our best, that's all we can do."
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Westley praises second half showing in Holland
WHUFC.com
Dev Squad boss Terry Westley was pleased to see his side come from behind against PEC Zwolle
The team were playing in their first Netherlands pre-season tour fixture
After falling 2-0 and 3-1 behind, the youngsters hit back to draw 3-3 on Wednesday
Development Squad manager Terry Westley praised his side's second half performance as they came from behind to pick up a draw against PEC Zwolle in the Netherlands. After the hosts raced into a two-goal lead in the 3-3 draw, the Hammers pulled one back through Sam Ford shortly before half time to reduce to deficit. And, though Zwolle added a third seconds before the break, the east Londoners put on a second 45 masterclass as they passed the Dutch side off the park, scoring twice in the process through Joe Powell and Jahmal Hector-Ingram to level. And after watching his men come out fighting to gain a draw, Westley had little but good things to say about the young Hammers. He said: "It was a good performance against a team I consider to be good opposition. They were very technical and tactically aware of what they needed to do, and they caused our boys some problems early on. "We started off on the back foot and conceded early, but slowly got to grips with it, and second half, we did very well. I was really pleased. "Second half, we managed to get a little bit closer to them and got up against them and nicked the ball in a lot of forward positions. The third goal was a good team goal; it went back and through and then a good cross and finish by Jahmal [Hector-Ingram]."
Hector-Ingram – who has now scored in consecutive Dev Squad fixtures – impressed Westley, as did a number of other members of the team. "Jahmal kept searching and kept trying to get in behind and caused some problems," the boss continued. "The two centre-halves, Jake Eggleton and Tunji [Akinola] kept us together, and Sam Howes made some saves which he needed to. "Young Conor Coventry got us playing when he came on. But if I picked one individual, Kristjian Belic – 15-years-of-age playing in a mens' game – really stood out.
"We're working very hard in training. It's not easy to take it into a game. We had a lot of replacements today but we were able not to play a few, too. We have some coming back with for us in the last big game before the start of the season so we look forward to that on Saturday."
The Dev Squad face West Ham's partner club VVV Venlo in the Netherlands on Saturday, with a 2pm kick-off UK time.
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From the Terraces - Italian Irons
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's double header of games in Austria and Slovenia this week has presented a unique opportunity for one locally based fan. Italian Iron Paolo Barbuio would normally only be able to travel to a handful of games a season, but living near Venice – 279 miles from Kapfenberg, where the Hammers took on Karlsruher SC on Saturday, and 151 miles from Ljubljana – has given him the opportunity to watch his team twice in a matter of days. The Hammers are looking to progress to the group stages of the UEFA Europa League and Barbuio, whose interest in the Hammers was stoked by the presence of a certain legendary countryman in the early 2000s, is delighted to be there at the start of the journey.
He said: "We were very happy to be in Austria last weekend and it was great to have West Ham so close to us. "We come from Italy, near Venice, so we were happy that the team is here, near to our town, and we hope that the season ahead will be very good. "With the Europa League game in Ljubljana too, we will be there and we hope to see another win!
"I have followed West Ham since 2000, when Paolo Di Canio arrived in London, and I began to travel to London to see the matches in 2009. "My first match was against Hull City at Upton Park. We won 3-0, and I remember Valon Behrami scoring. "The last match I went to was West Ham-Sunderland in February, when Michail Antonio scored. Upton Park was a beautiful Stadium and I look forward to getting across to London again soon."
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Elsner - We will put all our passion on the pitch
WHUFC.com
NK Domzale boss looking forward to Hammers challenge
Former Domzale player Elsner focused on delivering strong performance
Elsner impressed with Slaven Bilic's impact at West Ham
Richard Laverty talks to NK Domzale manager Luka Elsner ahead of Thursday's momentous clash with the Hammers…
Tucked away in a town consisting of just 12,000 people, 33-year-old Luka Elsner is preparing his NK Domzale side for the tie of a lifetime, West Ham United at home before a trip to London Stadium next week for the return leg of their Europa League third qualifying round match.
Domzale's stadium is so small that Thursday's match has been relocated to the 16,000 Stadion Stozice in nearby Ljubljana - their own stadium holds less than 3,000. Despite their size, Elsner's hard work and determination has made him a success at the club he also played for.
"We have a clear vision, we have had that same picture for almost two decades," says Elsner.
"We are developing young players through our academy, trying to produce the best talents and work with them and give them a place to be competitive. Eventually, these players go abroad when we have done what we can for them, it is very difficult for us to get a budget together every season but we do what we can."
Despite the enormity of the task ahead of them, Domzale aren't giving any extra attention to their esteemed opponents, on Monday afternoon Elsner had just finished an analysis session on their previous round opponents – Shakhtyor Soligorsk – when we speak about the upcoming match.
"This is an elite level match for us but we have to find some way of giving our players hope through the analysis, we will look at where we can see good things for us and how we can survive against a team like West Ham. We have to stand up on the field, protect ourselves and try to make them play a different way to what they're used to."
In a week's time, Elsner will bring his coaches, players and a large chunk of Domzale to London and will go down in history as the first side to play a competitive match at the former Olympic Stadium.
Whilst the manager is excited at the prospect of such an occasion, he admits "we can't go there thinking we are tourists" if his side want to pick up a positive result.
"It's a double challenge," he says. "You want to be competitive but you have to be professional in how you prepare for them, of course we are all very excited. We have the first game here in Ljubljana, we can go there and take pictures but we have a game to focus on and it will only remain in our memories in a positive way if we go there and put in a good performance."
So how does a team based in a small town of 12,000 people continuously push the boundaries of what is possible and take it to the biggest names in Slovenian football? Elsner chuckles at the mention of Lincoln Red Imps' victory over Celtic but he's adamant his team will do their best to be competitive.
"We'll need to play at our maximum, every player on the team will need to do that and we'll probably need some luck as well!"
"They are missing some huge players and maybe physically won't be at their best but they still have some fantastic players. It seems impossible [for us] but we will put all our passion out on the pitch because sometimes passion can do the job and you can surprise people in many ways."
Like Slaven Bilic, Elsner was born in ex-Yugoslavia and also played for the team he currently managed, although his tenure as a player at Domzale was much longer than that of Bilic's at West Ham United.
"This is my first meeting with him in football, it was very refreshing to see what he did last year, we were impressed if not inspired by what he did.
"Maybe people in the Premier League didn't know much about him as a coach but you can only respect him for how much he surprised everybody.
"He [Bilic] has a connection with his club as I do with Domzale, we both have a connection to the identity of our clubs. I think it gives you an advantage but at the end of the day you learn in the job all the time but you do get an extra energy from managing a team you have played for."
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West Ham's Mark Noble not banking on England call from Sam Allardyce
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 28/07/16 12:53pm
SSN
Mark Noble insists he is focused only on playing football rather than trying to get into the England squad under new manager Sam Allardyce. The West Ham captain expressed his extreme disappointment at not being given a chance to prove himself at international level by Roy Hodgson in the lead up to Euro 2016. Allardyce was among those stating Noble's case for England recognition during his four years in charge at Upton Park but the midfielder says he is not banking on a call-up now his former boss is in charge. "I'm just concentrating on football - I have since I've started playing," said Noble, who was capped 20 times at U21 level between 2007 and 2009. "Obviously last year I was disappointed, I'm not going to lie to you. I enjoyed a fantastic season with West Ham... not only just me - the likes of Cress [Aaron Cresswell] was one of the best left-backs in the league for sure. "There was a lot of shout about Michail Antonio and big Andy Carroll as a difference up there, which I thought we needed at points in the Euros but I'm just going to concentrate on football."
Whether Noble forces his way into the England squad or not, the 29-year-old is certain the national team is in good hands. "Obviously I worked under Sam for a long time," he added. "I know the way he works, he's a very good man. "Do I think England made the right choice? Yes, because he knows how to sort stuff out in a way. He's a great man-manager, he knows how to get the best out of his players. "I think with England, they've gone with someone that knows English players, knows the English league and has a good relationship with the FA. They've called upon him to sort it out."
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham still need 'one or two' new signings
By Mark Crellin
Last Updated: 28/07/16 2:16pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is worried his squad is not currently big enough for the rigours of the upcoming Premier League season. The Hammers have been linked with several strikers this summer, most recently Carlos Bacca of AC Milan, and Bilic is hopeful of welcoming 'one or two new faces' before the end of the transfer window. "To get those kind of strikers, we as a club, we couldn't fight with the big guns," he said. "So we had to be very early, before them, and/or give more money to the players. And then it is also hard.
"But I said we are not going to buy just for the sake of buying, and that includes strikers as well. "Also, I told the chairman a couple of days ago that I can understand for some players we are not their number one target, but I told him that I also don't want to buy the players who don't want to come to us."
Manuel Lanzini could miss the start of the season with a knee injury, having been ruled out of the Rio Olympics, where he was due to represent Argentina. And Bilic suggested the attacking midfielder's possible absence makes the need to get involved in the transfer market more pressing. "Now we have a different strategy," he said. "We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to join us and they are extremely quality players. "Hopefully we are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation, which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League."
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Slaven Bilic shares what he's told David Gold about transfer at West Ham United
HITC
John Verrall
@JohnVerrall
West Ham United have been frustrated in their search for a striker this summer. Slaven Bilic has informed the Daily Mirror that he has told West Ham United chairman David Gold that he doesn't want to buy players who do not want to be at the Olympic Stadium. West Ham have submitted bids for a number of high profile signings this summer, with Alexandre Lacazette and Carlos Bacca two of their most exciting targets. However, Lacazette and Bacca both expressed a reluctance to move to the Hammers, and Bilic has suggested that his side have other players in mind now. Bilic explained: "I said that we won't buy just for the sake of buying and that includes the strikers as well. "Also I told the chairman a couple of days ago I can understand for some players that we are not number one target. I told him also that I also don't want to buy the players who don't want to come to us so I said that is it. "Now we have a little bit of a different strategy and we are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to join us and they are extremely quality players."
Gold has hinted that West Ham may still invest big money in a striker, but doing so has proven problematic so far. West Ham are known to be aiming to strengthen their forward ranks, with Jonathan Calleri the latest player to be linked. Despite their struggles to add a striker, West Ham have still had a fairly productive summer transfer window to date.
The Hammers have brought in a handful of new signings, with the likes of Havard Nordtveit, Sofiane Feghouli and Gokhan Tore all joining. Tottenham's Andros Townsend (L) in action with Besiktas' Gokhan Tore West Ham play their first competitive match of the season later this evening, against NK Domzale in the Europa League.
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Arsenal plot £16.8m move for West Ham target: Gonzalo Higuain deal sparks interest
ARSENAL are reportedly planning to rival two London sides in a bid to sign Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic, who is free to leave the club.
By JOE SHORT
PUBLISHED: 12:00, Thu, Jul 28, 2016 | UPDATED: 12:30, Thu, Jul 28, 2016
Express.co.uk
Juventus signed Napoli frontman Gonzalo Higuain for £75million this week and they are now open to offers for Mandzukic. And the Turin club's willingness to listen to bids has reportedly triggered Arsenal's interest. That is according to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, who claim Watford have also considered an offer for the Croatia international.
West Ham are said to be keen on landing Mandzukic, 30, this summer in a £16.8million (€20m) deal. The Hammers have £30m ringfenced in manager Slaven Bilic's transfer kitty to spend on a striker. It is reported that Mandzukic is happy in Italy and has not been tempted by interest from either West Ham or Watford - but that a deal with Arsenal could turn his head. Arsenal have already failed with moves for Leicester's Jamie Vardy and Alexandre Lacazette of Lyon this summer as manager Arsene Wenger seeks to bring in a new striker.
Mandzukic scored 10 goals in 27 league appearances for Juve last season as the club won a fifth straight Serie A title. He only joined Juve last summer from Atletico Madrid in a £13.6m deal and failed to score in three appearances for Croatia at Euro 2016.
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Domzale vs West Ham: What time does the Europa League qualifier start, what channel is it on, where can I watch it?
Everything you need to know ahead of the third qualifying-round clash in Slovenia
Samuel Stevens
The Independent
West Ham United start their Europa League journey this evening in Slovenia when they take on Domžale in the third qualifying round at the Stozice Stadium. Slaven Bilic, the Hammers manager, says supporters of the East End club "can expect good things" ahead of the new season as they prepare to formally move into the Olympic Stadium next Thursday in the return fixture. Despite challenging to finish in the Champions League places in the Croat's first season in charge last time around, West Ham ultimately had to settle for seventh place behind Southampton and Manchester United. "We are happy with our preparations," Bilic told the official club website. "We have done everything that wanted to do, but still we have to make a balance in our preparations to compromise some things because the competitive games don't start on August 15, they start on Thursday. "It's not ideal but I'm really pleased with the way we've trained. We are still expecting a few players to come back, those who have been playing in the European Championships. If we continue to work hard like this, with dedication and humility, we can expect good things."
When is it?
Kick-off at the Stozice Stadium, in the Slovenia city of Domžale, is at 7.45pm BST.
Where can I watch it?
The match will be covered on BT Sport 2 with the broadcast starting at 7.30pm and also being available across the company's digital platforms and mobile apps.
Who is likely to play?
West Ham are without a number of the players who represented their county at the European Championship meaning there'll be no Dimitri Payet for tonight's clash in Slovenia.
Diafra Sakho, Manuel Lanzini and Aaron Cresswell are all ruled out with injury or otherwise while new signing Sofianne Feghouli is set to continue his encouraging pre-season.
West Ham's pre-season diary
vs Seattle Sounders, 6 July - lost 3-0.
vs Carolina Rail Hawks, 13 July - drew 2-2.
vs FC Slovacko, 19 July - drew 2-2.
vs Rubin Kazan, 23 July - won 3-0.
vs Karlsruher SC, 23 July - lost 3-0.
vs Domzale (a), 28 July.
vs Domzale (h), 4 August.
vs Juventus (h), 7 August.
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham won't spend big money on a new striker just for the sake of it
11:06, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 11:06, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
The Hammers have failed in bids for a number of big-name strikers this summer after earmarking £30million to spend on a new frontman
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham won't splash the cash on a big-name striker just for the sake of it. And Bilic admitted they have now changed the type of player they are looking for after being left frustrated in their attempts to land a marquee name. The Hammers had set aside £30m to spend on a top 20-goal a season frontman to bolster their squad. But so far they have been unable to land one despite making approaches for Michy Batshuayi , who joined Chelsea, Liverpool's Christian Benteke, Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette and AC Milan's Carlos Bacca. One stumbling block for the Hammers has been the fact most of their targets are holding out for Champions League football. Bilic said: "We have tried. To get that kind of striker, we as a club couldn't fight with the big guns so we had to bid very early, like before them, or give more money to the players and then it is also hard. "But I said that we won't buy just for the sake of buying and that includes the strikers as well. "Also I told the chairman a couple of days ago I can understand for some players that we are not number one target. I told him also that I also don't want to buy the players who don't want to come to us so I said that is it."
Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri, 22, who is currently on loan at Sao Paulo, has emerged as one attainable target and the Hammers are in negotiations to bring him to the Olympic Stadium. Bilic added: "Now we have a little bit of a different strategy and we are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to join us and they are extremely quality players and hopefully we are going to do one or two of them depending on Manuel Lanzini's injury situation which we are going to know only in a few days time.
"Because still we don't have a squad big enough to compete, not even in the Premier League not to mention this competition the Europa League, hopefully with more games."
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West Ham's Reece Oxford wants first-team assurances with Slaven Bilic set to unveil new signings in Europa League
KEN DYER
Evening Standard
West Ham will parade their new signings on Thursday evening, but home-grown teenager Reece Oxford will also be the centre of much attention. The defender joined West Ham's pre-season training camp in Austria after playing for England in the European Under-19 Championships and is expected to feature in the Europa League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale in Slovenia. Oxford, who became the second youngest player to be involved in a Premier League match when he started the opening game of last season at Arsenal, will be looking to impress the West Ham manager. The 17-year-old's future remains uncertain following interest from several clubs in recent weeks, including Manchester United.
West Ham valued him at £18million but ideally want to keep him. Oxford, meanwhile, is looking for assurances on greater first-team involvement, particularly with the vacuum caused by central defender James Tomkins' £10m move to Crystal Palace. Norwegian Havard Nordtveit, a free transfer this summer from Borussia Monchengladbach, is expected to fill one of the central defensive positions against NK Domzale as James Collins and Angelo Ogbonna remain unavailable following their involvement in the Euros. Algeria winger Sofiane Feghouli is expected to start in this first leg while Gokhan Tore, on loan from Besiktas, will also be involved. But Dimitri Payet misses the game as he is in the early stages of pre-season training following the Euros.
Aaron Cresswell is also out with a lengthy knee injury while Manuel Lanzini is returning to the club for treatment after being ruled out of the Argentina squad for the Olympics.
With Domzale's stadium ruled inadequate, tonight's match has been moved to the Stozice Stadium in Ljubljana, which has a capacity of just over 16,000 fans. West Ham boss Slaven Bilic admitted that the Europa League "damages your chances in the Premier League" but added: "We want to try, we want to take that risk and hopefully we are going to manage it."
Bilic has been pleased with his summer additions, saying: "We didn't buy just for the sake of it. We wanted to buy quality."
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West Ham captain Mark Noble 'shocked' after Tony Carr is offered redundancy package by the Hammers
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
West Ham captain Mark Noble has expressed his shock at the departure of the Hammers' former academy director Tony Carr. Carr, 65, was instrumental in the production of a long line of England internationals at the east London club, including the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Glen Johnson, Jermain Defoe, Joe Cole and Michael Carrick. But, after 43 years of service, Carr has left his role as a club ambassador after being told the position was no longer full time. Carr has labelled the minimum statutory redundancy payment of £14,000 offered to him as "paltry" while West Ham fans spelled out their anger online. The club have now confirmed Carr has left his position with immediate effect after his two-year contract came to an end and Noble, who worked with Carr throughout his career, has praised the impact he had. "I first saw it in the papers," he told the Daily Mail. "It was a shock to me. "I don't know what's gone on in the background, I've been in Austria for two weeks solid [on a training camp], but what I can say is I know Tony very well.
"He's a fantastic man, a great servant to the club. As we all know, the players he's brought through in the last 20, 25 years have been phenomenal. The players Tony Carr brought through at West Ham "I'm looking forward to getting back to Tony and seeing how he is. I don't know what's gone on between him and the club. "My own personal experiences with Tony have been fantastic. He helped me become the player I am today," insisted Noble.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic warns one top Premier League manager will be 'slaughtered' for missing out on top four
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
At least one of the Premier League's high-profile managers will be "slaughtered" for failing to secure a top-four finish next season, according to West Ham boss Slaven Bilic.
Competition for Champions League places is set to be fiercer than ever next season with Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham all tussling for position.
The Hammers, who start their Europa League campaign against Slovenian side NK Domzale tonight, will also be hoping to do enough to force their way into Europe's elite after finishing seventh last term. But Bilic is wary that with so many sides aiming for the top four someone will have to fall short - and can expect plenty of criticism as a result.
"The managers like Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Antonio Conte, Arsene Wenger, there are five of them and one has to finish fifth," he told the Daily Mail. "If they are the top five - one of them is going to get slaughtered and they are all big names. "Spurs will probably be unhappy to finish sixth. Everton, and all that," he added.
However, although plenty of clubs will be focused on competing at the top of the table, Bilic believes the majority of the division's target will be to accumulate 40 points and avoid relegation, including champions Leicester City. "Therefore when we talk about Champions League, Europa League, mid-table, it is all very dangerous. Make no mistake. "I am a confident, over-optimistic person but apart from the top seven clubs on paper everybody is looking forward to 40 points. And that includes Leicester," said the Croatian.
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West Ham's Olympic home could be rebranded the Tesco Stadium with supermarket giant to bid for naming rights
Indian company, the Mahindra Group were expected to complete a £6million deal for the naming rights of the Olympic Stadium
It's been delayed several times as sponsorship market is in a state of flux
Tesco is keen to talk with the London Legacy Development Corporation
West Ham would receive £1m from any naming rights deal
By MARTHA KELNER FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:34, 27 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:34, 28 July 2016
West Ham's new home could be known as the Tesco Stadium after it emerged the supermarket giant is poised to join the race to secure the renaming rights for the Olympic Stadium.
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) had been expected to complete a £6million deal with Indian company, the Mahindra Group, a technology giant and car maker. Sportsmail understands that there is uncertainty surrounding the pending deal with the period of exclusivity with Mahindra due to expire in August. The deal with Mahindra was set to be announced before new tenants West Ham moved out of Upton Park in May but has been delayed several times because the sponsorship market is in a state of flux. If they do not go ahead it is thought Tesco is keen to open talks with the LLDC about joining the race. Under the terms of West Ham's tenancy of the stadium, the club are entitled to 50 per cent of the annual revenue from naming rights above the initial £4m so would receive £1m from any deal. The stadium in Stratford, east London, cost £701m to build, paid for from the public purse. West Ham will play their first game there a week on Thursday when they face Slovenian side Domzale in the second leg of their Europa League qualifier before the official unveiling in a prestige friendly against Juventus on Sunday week. The first Premier League game will be against Bournemouth on August 21. At the Anniversary Games athletics event, held at the stadium last weekend, stakeholders were asked to refer to it simply as the London Stadium. Tesco has been involved in sport sponsorship in the past, becoming an official sponsor of England's doomed World Cup campaign in South Africa in 2010. In 2008, the supermarket chain also signed a three-year deal to sponsor the East Stand at Swansea's Liberty Stadium. But purchasing the naming rights to the former Olympic Stadium, which has been reduced in capacity from 78,000 to 60,000 since London 2012, would be their biggest move yet.
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