Daily WHUFC News - 1st January 2016

**** HAPPY NEW YEAR - have a fantastic, prosperous and safe 2016 - all the
best PeterR ***

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Speaks - Liverpool
WHUFC.com

Ahead of the Hammers first game of 2016, Slaven Bilic held his pre-match
press conference at Rush Green. During the briefing, the manager fielded a
range of questions from the all-important team news, facing Jurgen Klopp's
Liverpool and starting the New Year strongly.

Here's what the gaffer had to say…

Slaven, Happy New Year, is Dimitri Payet in contention to start at the
weekend?

"Yes, he has been training with us for a couple of days. It depends how he
trains today but I am expecting him to be in the squad. We'll have to see
how much he can participate but it is a great boost for us of course. I
think he'll be involved for the squad for Liverpool.
"Jelavic is back training with us, Winston Reid and Victor Moses are also
back so it's a good situation for us. They still need to get their fitness
up but it is good news."

Will Moses and Reid be available for the Liverpool game?

"Not for Liverpool, there is a small chance but I don't think so. They are
more likely to feature in the FA Cup game against Wolves."

It's News Years' Eve, what have you told your players about how they
celebrate?

"They can celebrate with their families of course, something quiet. They
know that, they are professional and we are training on Friday."

What have you made of Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool side?

"Well, they are Liverpool, they're a huge team. They've won their last two
games and kept clean sheets so they'll be confident. They've shown some
really good performances, but they are also vulnerable. We are expecting a
very tough game, they are full of energy, a way that they like to play.
It'll be a very tough game for us."

How much do you think the club will change by this time next year?

"Well we have a plan, and there's a lot happening in the coming months. Of
course, we have the new stadium which is very important. On the pitch, we
are progressing well, and we have two transfer windows coming up so, by this
time next year, a lot of things will be different."

Are you expecting to be busy in the January transfer window?

"With the injured players coming back, we are in a good way, I am happy with
the squad. If something exceptional comes up then maybe, but at the moment
we have a good team. Apart from Sakho we are all practically back, if we are
lucky he could be back by early February, overall our squad is good enough.
We did a very good job in the summer, particularly toward the end."

What are ambitions for the rest of the season?

"Same as it was at the start, we have to take each game as it happens, we
have to maintain the same intensity and if we do that we will do well. We
don't have a specific target; we want to win every game. Knowing that this
is the most difficult league in Europe, that'll be tough, but when we are at
are best, we are very good."

Jurgen Klopp is a real personality, what do you make of him so far?

"Having him in the Premier League is a real boost. He's the one who all the
big clubs wanted, he came to England which is good, he is one of the best
coaches in the league. The expectations on him are high of course, but it's
good to have him in the Premier League."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonjo nets 'gong' at just 13
WHUFC.com

Schoolboy fundraiser extraordinaire Jonjo Heuerman, who has raised nearly a
quarter of a million pounds to help beat cancer, has scored a blinder – a
'gong' at just 13. Jonjo from Dartford, Kent, has been awarded the British
Empire Medal in the New Year's Honours list.
Jonjo, is the youngest person to receive the BEM in this year's awards and
one of the youngest ever to be given the honour. Jonjo, started his
football-themed fundraising walks five years ago and has raised £235,000 for
the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK.
He was inspired to start raising money after his beloved nan Lyn died of
bowel cancer in February 2009 aged just 60. As a passionate West Ham and
England fan, he was aware his footballing hero Bobby Moore had died of bowel
cancer and decided to do all his fundraising for in honour of Bobby and his
nan. His mum Donna said finding out he was to receive the honour was
'surreal'. "An award was mentioned ages ago and to know he was even being
considered was special in itself. But then we didn't hear much more until
the beginning of November when a very official-looking letter arrived from
the Cabinet Office. "We had a quick peek, realised what it was and were
pretty choked. When Jon got home from school, he looked at it but didn't
understand at first. And then the penny dropped. The first thing he said was
'Why?' "We're all incredibly proud of him but his nan, who was the
inspiration for all this, would have been so thrilled for him. She was a bit
of a matriarch like Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders – fiercely proud of her
family. She would have be doing cartwheels!"

Jonjo said: "I was really surprised and very proud to hear I was on the New
Year's Honours list. I didn't even know what a British Empire Medal was! I
never realised my fundraising would go this far. "I'm really hoping my medal
will help me raise more funds and awareness for The Bobby Moore Fund for
Cancer Research UK. Thank you to everyone who has helped me get this far."

Jonjo will receive his inscribed British Empire Medal during a ceremony from
the Lord Lieutenant of Kent later this year and will then be invited to
attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace. The BEM, which was reintroduced
in 2012, rewards sustained, local contribution or innovative, high-impact
work.

For more details about Jonjo's latest challenge, or to donate visit:
www.justgiving.com/fornannyandbobby or text CAPT66 £? to 70070

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimitri Payet back from ankle injury for West Ham v Liverpool
BBC.co.uk

West Ham playmaker Dimitri Payet is set to return to the squad for
Saturday's home league match with Liverpool. The 28-year-old France
international, was expected to be sidelined for three months with an ankle
injury sustained against Everton on 7 November. But Hammers boss Slaven
Bilic said: "He has been training with us for a couple of days. It is a
great boost for us and he will be involved in the game." Victor Moses and
Winston Reid may also face Liverpool following injuries. Moses, on loan from
Chelsea, and defender Reid have both been out since 5 December because of
hamstring injuries. "There is a small chance that Moses and Reid will be in
the squad but more likely for the FA Cup game against Wolves [on 9
January]," Bilic added. Bilic, who said he did not expect to see much
transfer activity at Upton Park "unless something exceptional comes along",
added that Senegal international striker Diafra Sakho was also nearing a
return, having been sidelined since suffering a thigh injury against West
Brom on 29 November. "If we are lucky Sakho will be back early February and
we are happy with the squad. We did a good job during the summer," the
Croatian said.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Liverpool
KO 12:45
West Ham overwhelmed Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield in August, claiming their
biggest ever away win over the Reds
BBC.co.uk
31 December 2015
Last updated at 15:33

TEAM NEWS

Dimitri Payet has been named in West Ham's squad after two months out with
an ankle injury. Aaron Cresswell faces a fitness test on his hamstring,
while Nikica Jelavic, Winston Reid and Victor Moses are all back in training
but not ready to play.

Liverpool have injury-prone striker Daniel Sturridge available following a
recent hamstring problem. Jordan Henderson suffered a setback on his return
in midweek, while James Milner and Divock Origi are again out.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Steve Wilson: "Slaven Bilic had a great record against Liverpool under
Brendan Rodgers. "In August he guided West Ham to a first win at Anfield
since 1963, whilst his Besiktas side knocked Liverpool out of the Europa
League last season. "Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have put in some stunning
displays (Manchester City and Southampton), but also some desperately poor
ones (Newcastle and Watford): consistency is an issue. "Another issue is
Liverpool's defending of set-pieces, a fault Andy Carroll will hope to
exploit. "Still Liverpool's record signing, Carroll has two goals this
season - both scored as a substitute, both in the 79th minute and both in
2-1 home wins. Liverpool's German manager may not know the expression that
trouble comes in threes…"
Twitter: @stevewilson1967

WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "Liverpool are contenders to win the league,
like the other teams above them. If they have a good run, of course they can
win it. "Jurgen Klopp has been a boost for the Premier League. All the big
clubs wanted to take him. He is good for the league. Expectations are high."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on turning down West Ham last summer: "I'm a
lucky guy so there was a lot of interest from different clubs. If West Ham
will talk about this then they can do it. "In the summer I was not
available. I was sure I needed a few days for myself without thinking too
much about football. That's what I did. "It's a really good club but it was
the wrong time for all the clubs, so nothing to do with West Ham or what I
think about West Ham."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

"West Ham beat Southampton on Monday after five successive draws. I think
they have done really well just to keep their ducks in a row amid injuries
to attackers Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho. "Liverpool look more of a
threat away from home at the moment. They are creating so many chances on
the road but Christian Benteke - who has scored the matchwinner in their
last two games - is a dilemma for Jurgen Klopp."

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
West Ham have won two of their last three meetings with Liverpool, including
the reverse fixture in August, which they won 3-0 at Anfield - their first
league win there since 1963.
The Hammers last did the double over Liverpool in the 1963-64 season.
Liverpool have won on seven of their last 10 visits to Upton Park, with the
Hammers winning the other three.
West Ham have scored inside the opening three minutes in two of the last
three meetings between the clubs.

West Ham
West Ham have drawn five of their last six league matches.
They are unbeaten in six, the joint-longest current such run in the top
flight.
West Ham lost their first two home league games but have not been beaten in
any of the subsequent seven (W3, D4).
Slaven Bilic's side have conceded only nine second half goals, the fewest in
the division.
Andy Carroll scored six goals in 44 Premier League appearances for
Liverpool.
The Hammers took 21 points and scored 23 goals from 12 games before Dmitri
Payet was injured, as opposed to just eight points and five goals in seven
games without him.

Liverpool
Liverpool have won each of their last two fixtures. They are yet to win
three successive Premier League games under Jurgen Klopp.
They have recorded five 1-0 league victories, a total only West Bromwich
Albion can match.
Liverpool have scored 11 goals and conceded 11 both home and away this
season.
The Reds have won just six of the 13 matches played against sides below them
in the table (D4, L3).
Liverpool are unbeaten in three matches played in London in 2015-16 (W1,
D2).
No goalkeeper kept more Premier League clean sheets in 2015 than Simon
Mignolet, who recorded 16.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet set for Liverpool return, confirms Bilic
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 31st December 2015
By: Staff Writer

Dimitri Payet is set to return to first team action against Liverpool this
weekend - less than two months after being sidelined by their Merseyside
rivals. The 28-year-old attacking midfielder, who was injured by Everton's
James McCarthy at the beginning of November is set to be named in West Ham's
18-man match day squad this weekend when Slaven Bilic's side take on a
resurgent Liverpool, who are currently one place and one point above the
Hammers in the table. And Bilic referred to his impending return to the team
as "a great boost" when addressing the media at this morning's pre-match
press conference. "He has been training with us for a couple of days," said
Bilic. "It depends how he trains today but I am expecting him to be in the
squad. "We'll have to see how much he can participate but it is a great
boost for us of course. I think he'll be involved for the squad for the
Liverpool game."

There was also some good news with view to some other missing first team
players, with Bilic confirming that Vic Moses and Winston Reid could feature
against Wolves in the FA Cup next weekend. However Diafra Sakho is unlikely
to return to first team action before early February, as initially
estimated. "It a good situation now for us," said Bilic.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's interest came at the wrong time, says Klopp
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 31st December 2015
By: Staff Writer

Liverpool manager has confirmed that he was approached by West Ham during
the summer with view to replacing Sam Allardyce as manager.

Klopp, whose side face the Hammers at the Boleyn Ground this weekend
admitted that he was contacted by representatives of West Ham at the end of
last season - but opted not to enter talks as he was determined to take a
sabbatical from football following his decision to part company with former
club, Borussia Dortmund.

"I'm not sure that I should say too much about this but in the summer I was
not available," he told reporters at his pre-match press conference when
asked about the Hammers link. "I was sure that I needed a few days for
myself without thinking too much about football.

"That's what I did, but I'm a lucky guy so there was lots of interest from
different clubs. If West Ham want to talk about this then they can do - it's
a really good club but it was the wrong time for all the clubs that were
interested.

"It was nothing to do with West Ham or what I think about West Ham - it's
like it is, I was not available and so I didn't think too much about it."

Earlier this week West Ham United's co-owner David Sullivan confirmed that
the club had sought talks with the German manager. "We tried Klopp but at
the time he wanted a break," he said. "We aimed very, very high and I'm
pleased with the manager we got."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Merson's Prediction
SSN

West Ham v Liverpool (Saturday, 12.45pm)

I wasn't really impressed with Liverpool against Sunderland, they didn't
look great. They didn't keep the ball for more than about four or five
passes, and the goal was rather fortunate. The manager will be pleased with
the result, but Jurgen Klopp will know that if they carry on playing like
that they will not win many football matches. They gave away the ball so
cheaply. West Ham, if they get all their players back, are a threat. They
got a massive win against Southampton, especially after going 1-0 down
against a club on a bit of a high.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1 (9/2 with Sky Bet)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic happy with West Ham squad as injuries ease
By Stephen Turner
Last Updated: 31/12/15 11:55am
SSN

West Ham's improving injury situation means they are unlikely to spend in
January, according to Slaven Bilic. Dimitri Payet is fit to return to the
squad for this weekend's home game with Liverpool after almost two months
out with an ankle injury. And with Victor Moses and Winston Reid outside
chances for Saturday, Bilic is almost back to the squad that started the
Premier League season with four straight away wins, including three at
Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City. Only Diafra Sakho remains a
long-term absentee, and the forward is due back in early February. "The
situation with injuries looks very bright now," said Bilic, speaking at his
pre-match press conference. "When we have a full squad we have a really good
team and enough players. "I don't think we are going to be very active in
this transfer window unless something exceptional comes along. We are happy.
"If we are lucky Sakho will be back early February and we are happy with the
squad. We did a good job during the summer."

Hammers co-owner David Sullivan last week called Payet "a £30m player - the
best I've signed in 25 years", and Bilic said of the France midfielder's
return: "It is a great boost for us and he will be involved in the game."
West Ham's 3-0 win at Anfield at the end of August came during the tail-end
of Brendan Rodgers' reign, and Bilic expects big things from Rodgers'
successor Jurgen Klopp in the coming years.
"Klopp has been a boost for the Premier League," he said. "All the big clubs
wanted to take him. He is good for the league. Expectations are high.
"Liverpool are contenders to win the league, like the other teams above
them. If they have a good run, of course they can win it."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Boleyn Ground is entering its final year as West Ham's home
By Adam Bate
Last Updated: 28/12/15 2:25pm
SSN

The Boleyn Ground has been the home of West Ham for 112 years, but in 2016
the club will embark on a new adventure at the Olympic Stadium.
The Hammers will move on but memories of one of English football's famous
grounds will remain. With the help of West Ham favourites from past and
present, Sky Sports looks back on what the Boleyn Ground means to people,
what makes it so special and some of the moments that both players and
supporters will always remember...

What does it mean to people?

"When you get to West Ham, the one thing I felt is that as you open every
door, the history of the place oozes out," says Dean Ashton, the club's top
scorer in the 2007/08 season. "It's just incredible when you see the fans
and what it means to them. It meant the same to me to be at West Ham. "You
feel the expectations from the history of the likes of Bobby Moore, Sir
Geoff Hurst and Sir Trevor Brooking. You feel a sense of responsibility to
live up to that. I enjoyed that. I wanted to be a part of that club." Tony
Cottee, who made more than 300 appearances for West Ham over two spells,
feels that connection too. "It becomes part of your identity," says Cottee.
"When it comes time for me to move out of this world I will have 'Bubbles'
played. There are a lot of fans who'll associate with what I'm saying
because it becomes part of your life."

What made the atmosphere unique?

There have been many phases of the ground's development but those who recall
the famous 'chicken run' in the East Stand have fond memories of the
phenomenal atmosphere there. "It was the ultimate place," says Brooking, who
made 647 appearances for West Ham between 1967 and 1984. "It was the stage.
It was like in Rome where the gladiators came out. It was the perfect
showcase for a bigger football match."
While the nuances of the crowd have changed over the years, the tightness of
the ground has always had the effect of making players feel as though the
crowd was on top of them. "The fans are always in the game there, you can
sense that," says Ashton. Current boss Slaven Bilic also played for West Ham
for two seasons from 1996. "I remember us literally celebrating the goals
with the fans because they were two metres away," says Bilic. "That makes it
special. When you score a goal, a pass is made or they see some sort of
pressure in the middle of the park, they are delighted."

What were the most magical moments?

For Brooking, the 1976 European Cup Winners' Cup semi-final against
Eintracht Frankfurt was a night to remember as West Ham turned around a
first-leg deficit to reach the final. "Right up until the last minute it was
in doubt, because we always knew that the second goal would cost us," says
Brooking. "The place, the bubbles, the importance of the evening, was one
that I'll remember forever."

Cottee has plenty of fond memories but few could compete with his first -
scoring on his debut against Tottenham on New Year's Day 1983. "I couldn't
ever replicate that feeling of a 17-year-old, as a fan, scoring for your
club against Tottenham," says Cottee. "It was just an incredible feeling."
In the 1985/86 season, Cottee was part of a side that enjoyed the club's
best-ever league finish. "It was a typical West Ham season," he says. "A
rollercoaster. You start the season thinking they're probably going to get
relegated. As it turned out, we nearly won the league."

In his second spell, Cottee's West Ham played the role of party poopers,
denying Manchester United the title on the final day of the 1994/95 season.
"The main thing I remember is Ludek Miklosko and he was fantastic," he says.
"He just made save after save after save. You kept thinking they were going
to score in a minute."

Much like Cottee, for Bilic it's the games against Tottenham that often
stand out. He believes a 4-3 win over Spurs in 1997 was particularly
significant. "That was a great game to watch," he says, "and it was the
turning point of the season because it made us stay up."

Even the disappointments against Tottenham could throw up unforgettable
scenes. West Ham captain Mark Noble scored his first goal for the club in a
2007 defeat. "We lost 4-3 and it was quite famous that I was crying on the
pitch, but the emotion of it was just too much," says Noble.

The skipper feels that it's those players capable of moments of "magic" who
really strike a chord. So it proved with Paolo Di Canio and his final home
game for the club in 2003. He scored a late winner against Chelsea, and
Brooking, then the caretaker manager, recalls the emotions. "There were
tears, the shirt was thrown into the crowd," says Brooking. "The place was
heaving. Those are the moments with West Ham, when it happens and it happens
well for them, there's no better place to celebrate and be."

Looking forward as well as back…

As the club enters its final year in residence at the Boleyn Ground, it's
understandable that the countdown will be tinged with sadness. However, the
opportunities that come with a larger stadium will be welcomed too. It's the
chance to make new memories. But only after a fond farewell…

"It's really important that we give it the right send off that it deserves
after 112 years," says Cottee. "We can all cry our eyes out and then we can
move and look forward to West Ham trying to get into that top mix of English
clubs, which is where they want to be."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slav gives Payet the nod
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

ClaretandHugh was first off the mark with the news that Dimi Payet would
reappear against Liverpool on Saturday and Slaven Bilic has now confirmed
the details. We reported that the French maestro would appear for around 45
minutes – news that was greeted with probably the biggest wave of delight
among fans this season. And whilst the top medics at the club also declared
Dimi fit it's always important to get the boss' thoughts as Slaven is known
to be careful with returning players. However, this morning he is reported
as saying: ""Dimitri started to train with the team on Sunday. He looks
good, his ankle is very stable and the target is the game against Liverpool.
I am delighted he is going to be with us for that game."

So there you have it. The boss appears to be ready to launch the main man
into action and with Manu Lanzini also available I' have a 'score' which
says the Hammers at 3/1 the win are great value with Betfair. The draw is
12/5 and a Liverpool win 19/20.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimitri Payet hands West Ham major boost by returning from injury for
Liverpool clash
13:23, 31 DEC 2015 UPDATED 13:30, 31 DEC 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
The Frenchman has been out of action since November and wasn't expected to
feature until February due to his ankle problem
The Mirror

Slaven Bilic has revealed Dimitri Payet has given the West Ham squad a huge
boost with his return from injury in time for Saturday's game against
Liverpool. The £10.7million Frenchman, a summer signing from Marseille, was
not expected back until February at the earliest after injuring his ankle
against Everton at the start of November. He is set to play a part in
Saturday's showdown, however, as the eighth-placed Hammers look to push back
up the table. Speaking at the club's Rush Green HQ this morning, Bilic said:
"Yes he is back. "He has been training with us for a couple of days.
Depending on how he goes today, I expect him to be in the squad and
available for the game.
We will see how much he will participate in the game. He is back, it's great
boost for us, and he will be involved in squad for Liverpool."

Payet inspired West Ham to wins at Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and
at home to Chelsea before his injury. Since then they have managed to win
just one of their seven games and slipped out of the top six. Morale is
high, however, following the returns from injury of Andy Carroll and Manuel
Lanzini for last week's win over Southampton, Bilic added: "We had good news
that Lanzini and Carroll were back for Southampton. Nikica Jelavic is
training today with us. "Also Victor Moses and Winston Reid are back. It's a
good situation for us. Still they are lacking fitness and all that. But at
least they are training with us. It means a lot to the club. "Three to four
weeks ago we had problems regarding to injuries, but it looks very bright
now as the players are coming back. "We have enough players to do what we
want to do throughout the season."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jurgen Klopp defends West Ham snub claiming approach came at the "wrong
time"
13:22, 31 DEC 2015 UPDATED 13:27, 31 DEC 2015
BY DAVID ANDERSON
The Liverpool boss was considered as a replacement for Sam Allardyce at the
Boleyn Ground before Slaven Bilic was appointed manager
The Mirror

Jurgen Klopp has defended his decision to snub West Ham in the summer,
claiming they approached him at the wrong time. The Hammers have revealed
they offered Klopp their manager's job before appointing Slaven Bilic and
Klopp says he was not interested in joining any club back then. The German
had just quit Borussia Dortmund and was adamant he wanted a break from
football before he was tempted back into the game by Liverpool in October.
"I'm not so sure I should say too much about this," said the Reds boss. "In
the summer, I was sure I needed a few days for myself without thinking too
much about football. That's what I did. "I am a lucky guy and had a lot of
interest from many clubs. If West Ham want to talk about this they can do
that."It's a good club, but it was the wrong time for all the clubs who were
interested. That has nothing to do with West Ham, the Hammers! Everything is
OK with them."

Klopp also claimed it was too early to say if skipper Jordan Henderson would
miss Saturday's trip to Upton Park after he came off last night at
Sunderland with a recurrence of his heel problem. "No update now," he said.
"We have to wait a little bit. It was something with the heel. It could be
good for him, we hope. Something like that final pain and it goes in another
direction. "Everybody knows Hndo is a real tough guy. Yesterday he tried and
we saw it is not perfect. Now we have to wait a few hours more or maybe a
day or two and we will know more."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye Juventus' Simone Zaza as Norwich and Watford ponder January
move
11:00, 31 DEC 2015 UPDATED 11:01, 31 DEC 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
West Ham need striking reinforcements with Andy Carroll and Enner Valencia
scoring only three goals between them this season and both injury prone
The Mirror

West Ham want to sign Italy and Juventus striker Simone Zaza. The Hammers
tried to bring in Zaza on loan in the summer when they did the deal for
Angelo Ogbonna. Now the East End club have gone back in for the 24-year-old
seeking a loan deal for the rest of the season with an agreement for a
permanent signing for £13.2m, according to Gazzetta dello Sport . West Ham
need striking reinforcements with Andy Carroll and Enner Valencia scoring
only three goals between them this season and both injury prone. Watford and
Norwich are also understood to be interested in Zaza who has scored five
goals in only 370 minutes on the pitch this season. Signed from Sassoulo for
£13.2m in the summer, the 24-year-old is fourth choice striker behind Alvaro
Morata, Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic and will have to find regular
football to play at Euro 2016. Juventus will want £18m for Zaza and then
need to line up a replacement with former Southampton forward Dani Osvaldo,
now at Porto, among their options.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins deal: The finances
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

James Collins has landed a deal which will earn the central defender around
£3 million over the two years of his new deal. The value that manager Slaven
Bilic has put on the 32 year old was happily agreed by the board when they
decided to rush through a new deal for the Hammers loyalist. Collins – who
has now been at the club for nearly seven years over two spells has lifted
himself from fourth choice central defender to be battling with Angelo
Ogbonna for the other shirt alongside Winston Reid when fit. His deal works
out at around £29,000 a week and is likely to keep him at the club until the
end or close to the end of his playing career. Reid is likely to return to
the side for the 3rd round FA Cup Tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers – a
game which should also see the return of Victor Moses.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
JOB Done: He's off
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

Joey O'Brien is unlikely to leave West Ham this January transfer window
because of continuing injury problems but he will be gone in June next year
when his contract expires ClaretandHugh understand. There was speculation he
could have been released early this winter with his old club Bolton rumoured
as a possible destination for him but his injury situation makes any move in
the last six months of contract extremely unlikely we have been told. Claret
and Hugh's most senior source told us this morning "Sadly Joey is injured,
who takes an injured player? He's on a quite high wage" In 2011 O'Brien was
released by Bolton and was snapped up by West Ham on a free transfer after
getting a trial with the Hammers. He penned an initial two year contract
under Allardyce. In January 2013 O'Brien signed a new contract with West Ham
which will end in the June 2016. He believed to be on around £20,000 per
week contract. The 29 year old right back has been 105 appearances in all
competitions for the Hammers scoring three goals. West Ham are already
scouting for a new right back in the summer as Carl Jenkinson is likely to
leave too at the end of his loan.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic: "Sakho will be back in early February"
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

Slaven Bilic has given his final press conference of the year this morning
ahead of Saturday's lunchtime kick off against Liverpool.
He told assembled journalists: "Payet is back and has been training with us
for a couple of days. Depending on how he goes today he will be in the
squad. It is a great boost for us and he will be involved in the game.
Jelavic is training today and Victor Moses and Winston Reid are back."
There is a small chance that Moses and Reid will be in the squad but more
likely for the FA Cup game against Wolves. The players will celebrate New
Years Eve with their families. They will be professional and back in for
training on Friday." "Liverpool have won the last couple of games with some
good results. We are expecting a tough game. Klopp has a team full of
energy."They have kept two clean sheets and they are very confident, but we
are also very confident and are playing at home." "We have a plan. It
doesn't happen overnight. The Club have shown we are aiming to go forward.
We are progressing and are in a good way." The situation with injuries looks
very bright now. When we have a full squad we have a really good team and
enough players." "I don't think we are going to be very active in this
transfer window unless something exceptional comes along. We are happy." "If
we are lucky Sakho will be back early February and we are happy with the
squad. We did a good job during the summer. We want to keep playing good
football. We have shown we can play against any team in the Premier League.
We can finish very well. Our target is to pick up as many points as
possible. This is a very difficult league – the hardest one in Europe. But
we are good." "Liverpool are contenders to win the league, like the other
teams above them. If they have a good run, of course they can win it."
"Klopp has been a boost for the Premier League. All the big clubs wanted to
take him. He is good for the league. Expectations are high."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers ready to loan defender
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

Dundee FC have been linked with a January move for Hammers youngster Stephen
Hendrie. And ClaretandHugh's regular senior source told us exclusively:"
Hendrie needs games and might be loaned out, he is on a VERY low wage." The
20-year-old Scottish youth international left back is currently on West
Ham's books but has not been getting first-team football this season with
Aaron Cresswell the first choice left back. Last week both Carl Jenkinson
and James Tomkins filled in the left back role with Cresswell injured. A
move back north, either on loan or in a permanent deal, would meet his
desire to get back into proper competitive action again claims the Dundee
Evening Telegraph.
The left-back who can also play in midfield — played well over 100 games for
Hamliton before switching to the Hammers at the end of last January's
transfer Window.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Ginge' gets massive boost
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

James Collins has been handed the ultimate compliment by former Irons
defensive hero Tony Gale. 'Galey '- 300 appearances in an Irons shirt
between 1984-1994 -reckons 'Ginge' is, and should remain, the first choice
partner for Winston Reid when everybody is fit. Despite the arrival in
summer of £8 million signing Angelo Ogbonna from Juventus, Tony believes
Collins is the natural partner for Reidy. He said: "With James Tomkins
likely to remain at right back it's Ginge for me. He's been brilliant and I
was thrilled for him when he got his new deal. "Ogbonna is a decent defender
but for me James is the man to partner Reidy at the back when everybody is
fit. He's been a brilliant servant for the club and has lots still to
offer." Galey likes the set up at the back with James Tomkins at right back
saying: "I like to see it solid down that side and JT has done really well
in there. "Carl Jenkinson has lost his confidence and I feel for him. Now
it's all about responding in the right way and I'm sure he will come
through."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
When Noble could take corners
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2015 in News, Whispers
C abd G

On Tuesday West Ham Official twitter channel posted this video of a perfect
Mark Noble corner being met by Anton Ferdinand in 2007 to score against
Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground. One West Ham fan Dan James replied
"Remember when Mark Noble was able to cross a ball?" Another West Ham fan
Tommy said "A rare Noble corner beating the 1st man" Nick Friend added "A
Mark Noble corner beating the 1st man…Wow that is a collectors item now!
#COYI"

To be fair Mauro Zarate hasn't done any better in his corner taking
abilities recently. Last Saturday Lanzini took over the role in the second
after Zarate went off and he floated in two good corners one of which which
he was asked to re-take. With Payet featuring in some part of Saturday's
game against Liverpool our corner taking ability is about to return to a
whole different level.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
IN THE COURT OF THE CLARET AND BLUE KING
By Daniel Margrain 31 Dec 2015 at 07:00
WTID

For two years, England's world cup winning captain, West Ham United legend
and international football superstar, Bobby Moore, had a major accusation of
theft hanging over him. The weight must of been played heavily on Bobby's
shoulders and that of his family during an era when colour hit many of our
television screens for the first time.

As the world ushered in a new decade premised upon optimism and hope for a
bright future that colour television seemed to epitomize, professional
football had become elevated to the kind of media and entertainment
spectacle that we have all become accustomed to today. In many ways, the
changing face of football during this era became the defining feature of a
society in a state of flux that had finally shaken off its post-war shackles
of conformity and austerity.

For the first time, foreign travel was to become the mainstay of the many
not just for the 'exclusive' few. No aspiring jet setter could be seen
without the trappings that came with it. For many of the working class
beneficiaries of the post war boom who were fortunate enough to be in the
financial position of being able to enjoy a yearly foreign holiday, this was
a golden period.

It was the first time that I can remember excess being celebrated in such a
gregarious, if at times, ostentatious manner. The media jumped on the
bandwagon with their promotion of the 'exotic' lifestyles of the rich and
famous most notably on the travel documentary programme, 'Wicker's World'.

The sister travel guide show, 'Holiday', fronted by Cliff Michelmore was the
zeitgeist of the period in as much as it brought home to the masses that
foreign travel was now no longer the exclusive privilege of the rich, but
was something that ordinary people could engage in too.

No celebrity could be seen photographed without the accompanying and
obligatory 'bling' which captured the imagination of the public who also
aspired to the demands set by the new mass consumption environment.

For the first time in history, the profile of the top level professional
footballer was akin to the movie star – and the ordinary working class
garish man about town aspired for a piece of the action as well. Each
component part of the jigsaw shoehorned into one another fitting into place
as smoothly as the velvet glove on the hand of Audrey Hepburn.

Bobby Moore was very much the poster boy of his generation for this new
socially mobile working class in much the same way that David Beckham was
for his. It was perhaps fitting, then, that if anybody with such a high
profile as that of any footballing superstar in the world at that time was
to be fitted up for a crime, then it was the handsome and photogenic captain
of the world champions.

It was symptomatic of the times that Bobby Moore would be set up, not with
stealing a painting or cash, but with bling. Its somewhat ironic that the
last person most people would associate with bling is Bobby Moore who was so
self-deprecating a public figure; so humble and unconscious of his ability
and of his star status that he regularly met up with fans at the height of
his fame.

But here he was in a Bogota Jewelry shop located close to the foyer of the
plush Bogota Hotel in May 1970, the purpose of which was clearly to satisfy
the media hordes' need for a photo opportunity prior to the world's biggest
sporting event. Bobby was merely performing what he perceived was his role
as an ambassador for a sport which he loved and was the poster boy for. Set
against this was the bling which provided the backdrop for a scandal that
was whipped up by an obliging media circus.

The notion that one of the most famous and high profile footballer's in the
world at that time could be detained by the authorities for four days for
allegedly stealing a bracelet in the context of somebody who was about to
lead his county in the defence of the world cup is incomprehensible,
especially when viewed through the lens of a more enlightened social media
age.

But it's perhaps a sign of the times, that it WAS taken seriously so much so
that Bobby Moore, widely recognized as the most consummate professional in
the game – both on and off the pitch – was accused, and subsequently
arrested, for being a jewel thief.

Interest in the incident was stoked by the massive interest the media had in
Moore's wife Tina, who was shortly due to go out and watch England play in
Mexico. Reminiscent of the subsequent 'wag' fiasco, wherever Tina went the
media pack would follow.

What transcribed was an international media story on such a scale that it
was to provoke diplomatic intervention at the behest of Prime Minister,
Harold Wilson, who was so concerned by Moore's arrest that he requested
repeated lobbying of the Colombian government by the British embassy in
Bogota. It's no exaggeration to say that a major diplomatic incident could
easily have ensued.

Moore was kept under house arrest and although he was allowed to train to
maintain his fitness levels, he was constantly followed by armed police
guards. Within the high echelons of the football world, the accusations
against Moore were treated with more than a heavy dose of incredulity most
predictably perhaps by his manager Alf Ramsay.

But it was to be the Brazilian coaches proclamation of Moore's innocence
that arguably lent most weight particularly after he described a similar
incident that involved his team Botafogo. It's hard to believe that it got
to the stage that Moore was actually tried before a judge in Bogota, where a
re-enactment of the incident occurred but that's precisely what happened.

Needless to say, the case was thrown out due to the contradictory testimony
of the plaintiff. According to Jeff Dawson in his book 'Back Home: England
and the 1970 World Cup' (2002), cries of "Viva Bobby" could be heard from
the streets of Bogota.

Even harder to comprehend is the fact that the case wasn't formerly closed
until two years after the incident, following a hearing at Bow Street
Magistrates Court. Despite being cleared, the incident continued to dog
Moore, and it has been suggested it was a major reason why he was never
awarded a knighthood.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM DEFENDERS HALF TERM REPORT
By Iain Dale 31 Dec 2015 at 13:00
WTID

Adrian 8
Stormer of a season so far. Still makes me nervous at times but his shot
stopping is superb. Needs to do the simple things better sometimes. he must
surely be knocking on the door of the Spanish national team. He's become a
real crowd favourite and seems a thoroughly nice guy too.

Darren Randolph 7
Despite not playing much in the Premier League he has looked really good
whenever he's been called upon. In the three games he played when Adrian was
sent off he looked absolutely solid, and apart from one dodgy game in the
Europa League he did well when he played in that. Add that to his
performances for Ireland and he is a very able deputy indeed.


Aaron Cresswell 6
Compared to last season it's a bit after the Lord Mayor's show. Has had a
couple of dreadful games, including a shocker against Bournemouth. Has
improved of late and provided a couple of assists, but it's his defending
where the problems are.

Carl Jenkinson 4
A shadow the player he was last season and has deservedly lost his place to
James Tomkins. However, he is a much better attacker than James Tomkins will
ever be, but the stats don't lie. When Tomkins plays right back we don't
concede.

Winston Reid 7
If it weren't for his injuries Reid would be having a stormer of a season.
When he plays he often looks the best West Ham player on the pitch. Time
after time he saves the day. He always looks calm and collected and is
rarely fazed.

James Collins 8
He may not have played in the majority of games but since he has come back
into the team he's led by example. Time after time he heads the ball away.
In fact he's played so well that he's been rewarded with a two year contract
extension. Totally deserved.


James Tomkins 7
Tomkins is having a generally great and very consistent season. He's made
the odd mistake, but whether he's played at centreback alongside Reid or at
right back he's impressed with his tackling and distribution. Whenever he's
played at right back we haven't conceded a goal. Having said that, he's
certainly not an attacking right back and still seems to panic when he
crosses the half way line. I still think our best centre back pairing is
Reid & Tomkins, but it would be a cruel manager who took Collins out of the
first team at the moment.

Angelo Ogbonna 6
We haven't seen the best of Ogbonna yet, but he's improving all the time. He
had a difficult start and I think found the pace of the Premier League
difficult to cope with initially. And then he got injured and found it
difficult to get back into the team. But he's done well since he's returned
to the first eleven and I look forward to seeing more of him.


Reece Oxford 6
Hasn't really featured after his magnificent full debut against Arsenal and
a couple of matches afterwards. However, he's made a couple of substitute
appearances in the last week or two and if all goes well will soon become a
first team regular. It's incredible to think he has only just turned
seventeen. I'd love to think that in a couple of years' time we will see
Reece Burke and Reece Oxford as our first choice centre halves.

Reece Burke 8
Reece Burke has been loaned out to Bradford City where, by all accounts, he
has been extremely impressive. Many reckon he is their player of the season
so far. If his loan isn't extended I'd imagine he would make a few
appearances for the first team at Upton Park before the season ends.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::



http://vyperz.blogspot.com