Preview - Arsenal
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United welcome Arsenal to the Boleyn Ground on Saturday for a
lunchtime London derby.
There is plenty riding on the game, with Arsenal needing the three points to
maintain their slim hopes of landing the Barclays Premier League title,
while the Hammers are hoping to keep their UEFA Champions League dreams
alive.
This is the second of a three-game stretch of home matches for the Hammers,
with last Saturday's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace, the visit of the Gunners
and Wednesday's Emirates FA Cup replay against Manchester United completing
a busy spell for Sleven Bilic's men.
Arsenal will be kicking themselves that they have slipped eleven points
behind leaders Leicester City, but they have shown signs of returning to
form in recent weeks, defeating Everton and Watford in their last two
outings.
They currently sit third behind the Foxes and north London rivals Tottenham
Hotspur, but are reliant on slip-ups from them both if they are to close the
gap.
The history
West Ham and Arsenal have met on 132 previous occasions, with the Gunners
leading the head-to-head with 60 victories to West Ham's 34.
The north Londoners may lead the historical stats, but it is West Ham who
hold the most recent bragging rights, having won 2-0 at Emirates Stadium on
the opening day of the season.
On that occasion, Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro Zarate were on target to seal a
memorable success and get the Hammers' season off to the perfect start.
At the Boleyn Ground, West Ham's last victory over Arsenal came back in
November 2006, when Marlon Harewood netted the only goal of the game.
The match
Team news
West Ham United
Cheikhou Kouyate is available to play after his red card against Crystal
Palace was overturned.
James Collins and Sam Byram returned to training on Friday, but this game
comes too soon for them.
Arsenal
For the Gunners, Aaron Ramsey and Mathieu Flamini could feature after
overcoming thigh and hamstring injuries respectively.
Goalkeeper Petr Cech is expected to return to the starting line-up after
returning to the bench against Watford last weekend.
Match info
Saturday's match referee is Craig Pawson. His only previous Hammers
appointment this term was the 2-2 draw with Manchester City in January and
he will be assisted by Lee Betts and Darren Cann. The fourth official is
Jonathan Moss.
It is 10 years since West Ham last enjoyed a home win over Arsenal - Arsene
Wenger and Alan Pardew had a touchline bust-up after Marlon Harewood's
dramatic late winner in November 2006.
West Ham are unbeaten in their last nine matches in all competitions.
After losing their opening two home league games this season, the Hammers
have not lost any since (W7, D6).
West Ham have won half of their 14 league games against teams in the top
half this season, the best record in the top flight.
Dimitri Payet has been directly involved in 23 goals in all competitions
this season, 13 more than any other West Ham player.
Arsenal have won just two of their last seven away matches (D3, L2).
Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info
Tickets for this match have SOLD OUT.
Upton Park station will be served by the District and Hammersmith & City
lines as normal this weekend – click here for the latest info.
Supporters who use the A13 should note that journey times to the Boleyn
Ground are expected to be longer due to works on the Lodge Avenue flyover
near Barking.
A cloudy, but dry day is expected on Saturday, with temperatures peaking at
10C (50F).
If you're not heading to the game on Saturday make sure you keep up to date
on all the action with our in-depth Match Centre. We'll have live audio
commentary and text updates, along with in-running stats and photos. You can
get involved in the conversation on social using the hashtag #WHUARS
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From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
This is a big week coming up with a London derby against Arsenal on Saturday
shortly followed by the FA Cup quarter final replay against Manchester
United on Wednesday.
We have to put our bodies on the line and the manager will play the
strongest team in both games. This is an amazing opportunity to do something
special.
We start with another huge game in the Premier League and with a bit of luck
we could easily have four more points on the board.
After the drama that unfolded against Chelsea with the last minute penalty,
we then had another incident against Crystal Palace last weekend when
Cheikhou Kouyate should never have been sent-off and that cost us dearly.
The big decisions are going against us at the moment and it has been the
same in the Chelsea and Manchester United games. But what goes around comes
around and I am expecting a lot of luck to come our way in the remaining
games!
It was great to see Manuel Lanzini on the scoresheet once again and we know
he is a special player.
We also saw another wonder goal from Dimitri Payet and he keeps growing in
stature. There is no doubts he is the best free-kick taker in the world at
the moment and he has a special relationship with our supporters.
We hope Dimitri can carry that on when we face Arsenal on Saturday and few
could forget our famous win over the north London club on the opening day
which was the catalyst for our whole season.
The result at Emirates Stadium stunned everyone in the game and it was the
first time we had managed to come away with a victory during my tenure at
the club.
It was a convincing 2-0 result and was a great performance from everyone,
including young Reece Oxford who made a real name for himself on his Premier
League debut.
There was no luck attached to the win and we won the game on merit. I think
everyone started began to dream after that result and they were proved right
as we followed that up with away victories over Liverpool and Manchester
City and we are now challenging for a top four finish.
It would be remarkable if we could pull off another famous double over one
of the best teams in the Premier League this afternoon.
A victory would keep our aspirations of a European place alive and Arsenal
still have a slim hope of winning the title so it is a big game for both
clubs.
We still have so much to play for. European football beckons now and we
would love to see the club play in the Champions League.
We will be honouring two of the Club's greatest-ever players at the game
when Sir Trevor Brooking and Billy Bonds make a return to the Boleyn Ground.
They are both unquestionably true legends and will always be loved by
everyone at the football club.
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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Legendary BBC commentator John Motson looks forward to Saturday's Brooking
and Bonds themed visit of Arsenal by recalling the career of the great Billy
Bonds MBE...
I sat next to Billy Bonds at lunch ahead of West Ham United's opening home
Premier League game of this season against Bournemouth and I just couldn't
believe the shape he had kept himself in.
He was always the fittest man on the pitch when he was playing, certainly
the fittest man in the West Ham team and probably the fittest man in the
league. He oozed fitness and he still looked immaculate when I met him and
his family in the Directors' Box.
What a fantastic character he is – Billy was what he was on the pitch, off
the pitch. He was 100 per cent genuine.
Aside from a short spell at Charlton at the start of his career, he really
was Mr. West Ham – it was almost a contest between Bonds and Brooking who
you should give that title to. The Hammers were so lucky to have both in the
same period.
I should add that he was an inspiration to his teammates and everybody who
he came into contact with.
They used to say that, after the game was over, he was first in the shower
and first on his way home – he had no time for all the socialising and all
that, but was instead very much a home-bird and was straight in the car.
I think I would be prepared to say, and there are one or two other
contenders for this, that he was the best uncapped English player of
all-time.
People talk about Howard Kendall and others you would put in a similar
category. He played 799 games for West Ham and it would have been fitting if
the 800th had been for England. He would be fit enough to go out there and
play it!
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Reid - We've been really good against the top teams
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid wants West Ham United to continue their excellent form over the
Premier League's top sides by beating Arsenal on Saturday. The Gunners visit
the Boleyn Ground still searching for points in their quest to clinch the
Premier League title. But the Hammers, who have already beaten Arsenal this
season, want to continue their unbeaten home run to finish the season
strongly. And Reid, who was part of the side that grabbed the 2-0 victory at
the Emirates, would love to complete the double over the Hammers' London
rivals. Reid said: "We've had some really good results like the Arsenal one
this season. We've been really good against the top teams and hopefully we
can get the same sort of result on Saturday. "I think Arsenal are still
title contenders and it will be difficult as they have a team full of
international players. "They are up there every single season so it's always
going to be tough playing against them. "But it's a London derby, there will
be lots of fans, so hopefully we'll get the three points."
Slaven Bilic's team have not been beaten in 15 consecutive home matches,
and, according to Reid, that's down to the team's playing style. "We're
generally pretty positive about how we play at home," he continued. "We like
to start quickly and get on the front foot. "When we have gone behind
though, we've been good at getting back into games. We try to make it
difficult for teams at the Boleyn and we try to get on top of them from the
start. "If we can finish as high as we can, it would be a fitting way to end
[the era at the Boleyn Ground]. We've put early critics to bed and have had
a really strong season. "Now, we just want to make sure we finish it off."
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Farewell Boleyn - From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Hammers fan Conor Window looks back at one of his best memories from the
Boleyn Ground.
My best Boleyn Memory came last year at my first ever FA Cup game against
Everton.
I was 15 at the time and it was my first year as a season ticket holder. My
dad decided to book tickets for the game on our season cards.
I remember watching the match that lead to the replay a week before and
although I saw Everton as our bogey team, I had great faith in the boys that
they could get through.
That night I experienced the thrills of leading the game, and later on in
extra time the lows of being 2-1 down.
However once Carlton Cole scored our equaliser, the whole crowd erupted with
his chant and belief surged through every fan. Now the penalty shootout...
I was worried when it came to this, because we did not have a great amount
of success when it came to penalties in the past, and when Stewart Downing
missed his penalty, my heart sunk into my stomach and I was sure our amazing
night was over.
My dad couldn't even watch the penalty shootout! Too many bad memories I
guess! But when Joel Robles hit the bar, I believed!
My initial fault when Adrian stepped up was that Tomkins must be awful at
penalties, seeing as the goalkeeper is in front of him in the order.
But as soon as I saw him throw those magical gloves off in his run up, I
could tell that ball was destined for the back of the net.
The whole of the stadium, yet alone the Bobby Moore where I was sitting,
went crazy when that penalty went in! It is to this day the best game I have
ever witnessed.
Another amazing memory would be meeting Mark Noble and the Ferdinand's at
Mark's Testimonial. Rio signed my programme twice.
I also met David James at the Liverpool game, another magical FA cup night
under the glistening lights of Upton Park.
The last game of the season should be a memorable day, I was lucky enough to
go to Old Trafford and whiteness that beautiful goal from Payet with my own
eyes, along with that wonderful curling goal against Palace.
The fact that we can come back from Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge, as
well as City at home, with draws and be disappointed really shows how far
the club has come. I am very, very excited and proud to be a West Ham fan
during the rise of the east.
COYI
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Ballots open for final two games
WHUFC.com
Academy Members can now apply for tickets for the final two Boleyn Ground
fixtures. A ballot process will be used to allocate tickets for the visits
of Swansea City on Saturday 7 May and Manchester United on Tuesday 10 May,
with the ballots open to all Academy and Youth Academy Members. The ballots
will close at 5pm on Thursday 21 April, with applications to be processed by
Saturday 30 April.
All successful applicants will be notified by email.
Download the ballot application forms for:
- Swansea City
- Manchester United.
It's not too late to sign up as a Member to give yourself a chance of being
at these historic fixtures. Sign up for Membership here! Bondholders can now
book their tickets for these games. The deadline for Swansea is Thursday 21
April and Manchester United Saturday 23 April.
Applicants should note:
Only one application per member will be accepted. Applying on multiple forms
may result in your application being declined
Each fixture should be entered using the separate ballot form. Please ensure
you specify in the email subject line which fixture you are submitting a
form for
Please ensure the form you submit by email has been completed. Any blank
form cannot be processed
All supporters will receive an email confirming entry to the ballot, please
note this only confirms entry into the ballot and does not confirm a ticket
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Moose Meets... Sir Trevor Brooking
WHUFC.com
Ian 'Moose' Abrahams talks to a real-life West Ham United legend – five-time
Hammer of the Year Sir Trevor Brooking...
When you're a kid at school, playing football in the playground or the park,
you always pretend to be your favourite player.
I was an eight-year-old growing up in North West London when my uncle Roger,
a fierce critic of the game, found residing at most games in the BM6 Lounge,
brought me here in 1977.
From the word go I was hooked on the whole matchday experience, the team,
and Brooking and Bonds. Sadly I could never tackle like Billy, I just fouled
people, so I wanted to be Trevor, elegant, graceful, with feet that could
produce magic, who with an effortless air about him made playing football
look so easy.
I first met Trevor in 1979 on a dank Saturday afternoon at Charlton, we
lost, he was injured and my uncle, with slightly more hair at the time, but
no less a sense for encouraging me to stand on my own two feet, said if I
wanted Trevor's autograph I had to go over and ask him. When I did, I
realised the special footballer was also a special man. Throughout the 25
years I've been a journalist, I've got to know Trevor well but it remains
very surreal to be on first name terms with one of our two footballing
Knight of the Realm.
This week Trevor popped over to Upton Park for a chat about his career.
Volumes could and should be written about it, so this will provide a mere
snapshot for you. Let's start at the beginning and it was pure chance a
young Trevor joined West Ham.
"I came here as a boy watching in the late '50s, the Ted Fenton era," he
started. "We had our promotion season in 1957/58, so it was an exciting
time. We all came with our stools and they'd let the little ones go down the
front. I went with my brother and my Dad. I was born in Barking and they
were good years and I always dreamed at that stage of one day playing for
the Club, but of course I wasn't to know that was going to happen."
I asked Trevor if that was always his dream.
"I think you always wanted to enjoy playing football and every boy dreams of
the idea of being a professional footballer, but the only time I began
thinking about it was when one or two scouts started to come and watch when
I was 13 or 14," he revealed.
"I went to an old grammar school, Ilford County High, and I remember going
to the careers meeting and the teacher dismissing the idea of professional
football within ten or 15 seconds! 'I don't think that's something you
should be considering' he said, so we quickly moved on to other
discussions."
How wrong his teachers were. Trevor told me the scouts came to watch him,
but not those from West Ham, well not at first.
"Mum and Dad told me I was decent at school and they wanted me to do my
exams, so we came to a family agreement that I would stay on an extra year
and sign for a club at 16 and do a two-year and not a three-year
apprenticeship. The weird thing was that I was going to join a club in '65,
but it wasn't going to be West Ham, it was going to be Chelsea or Spurs."
So, how did West Ham come into the equation?
"Ron Greenwood later told me that the scout who bought players to Club,
Wally St. Pier, invited Ron to an Ilford Boys v Oxford Boys quarter-final in
the English Schools Trophy," Trevor recalled.
"I was playing for Ilford Boys and Oxford had a player that West Ham were
interested in. That particular game we lost 3-2, though we played well. I
thought I did OK, but I didn't know they were there and the next morning
Wally St. Pier came round to our house. I had gone to school by then.
"Mum was pretty bunt and told it how it is. Wally had said to my parents he
didn't want to come round before and disturb me during the English Schools
run, but as we'd been knocked out he thought he'd come round. My Mum told
Wally that eleven or 12 other clubs had come round and it didn't stop them
coming. She didn't believe him.
"Later on Ron told me he watched the game and asked Wally why he hadn't seen
the number four from Ilford (me) and Wally came round and we had the
discussion. Of course, once the team you support surfaced and I liked Ron, I
decided instead of joining Chelsea, who had a good youth structure under
Tommy Docherty, I'd join West Ham on a two-year apprenticeship."
At first, Trevor was intimidated by joining a team he'd watched from the
stands and training alongside the likes of Moore, Hurst and Peters.
"Ron was great someone who didn't like confrontation and the younger players
like myself felt there were two places in the team up for grabs, but if we
lost, the younger ones got rested," he remembers, 50 years on.
"It was frustrating and there was a spell when I went on the transfer list,
believe it or not! One or two Second Division (Championship now) clubs came
in but were told by the Club they weren't going to let me go.
"The lucky thing happened in 1970, when Alan Stephenson played centre half
and they bought Tommy Taylor from Orient and tried to play Tommy in
midfield. It didn't work, so they pushed Tommy back to centre-half, left out
Alan and I got my chance in midfield and had a run in the team where we went
unbeaten and that was it, and I never looked back.
"Those little margins are pretty scary, that I'd have been willing to take a
move in order to get first-team football..."
Saturday is Brooking and Bonds Day, reuniting two old teammates and friends
of half a century.
"Bonzo came along as a right-back, but had great engery and moved into
midfield with myself and Graham Paddon," Trevor recalls. "Bill was
fantastic, he had his socks down by his boots, in the '70s we all had our
long hair and beards.
"Actually, I didn't have a beard but long sideburns! We all thought we
looked great and Bonzo was our buccaneer as well as a great captain.
"I always remember, as a creative player, the opposition used to have a
man-mark me and they'd kick me up in the air a couple of times just to see
if I fancied joining in for the remaining 75 minutes.
"I used to pick myself up and look across to Bill and he would put in one or
two meaty challenges on my man-marker and I suddenly realised then I would a
bit more space!
"Bonzo was great for me in midfield and I did learn a lot of things from
him. The defence of Phil Parkes in goal, Ray Stewart, Bill, Alvin Martin and
Frank Lampard in the early '80s was the best I ever played with."
I could and did speak to Trevor for hours – about that goal at Derby County,
remaining loyal after relegation in 1978, his England career and that goal
in Hungary, playing under Ron Greenwood and his header in the 1980 FA Cup
final.
Actually, since we're playing Arsenal on Saturday, let's touch on that
header!
"Stuart Pearson dragged his shot across the face of the goal, and if I'd
stood still it would've clipped me on the ear, but I knew I just had to
direct it towards goal," he recalled. "I did that and fell backwards and I
knew the power of it would beat Pat Jennnings and the two defenders on the
line – and it did!"
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West Ham United v Arsenal
SAT, 09 APR 2016
PREMIER LEAGUE
12:45
Venue: Boleyn Ground
TEAM NEWS
West Ham have a full-strength squad for the visit of Arsenal. Midfielder
Cheikhou Kouyate is available after his red card against Crystal Palace last
week was rescinded.
Arsenal midfielders Aaron Ramsey (thigh) and Mathieu Flamini (hamstring)
could feature after recovering from thigh and hamstring injuries
respectively. Keeper Petr Cech is expected to start after returning to the
bench against Watford following a calf problem.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Jonathan Pearce: "This should be a belter. "It's a decade since West Ham
last beat Arsenal at home. But this is the season they've ended hoodoo runs
at Liverpool and against Tottenham and for the first time in a generation
look like capable of finishing in the top four. If they win this they can do
it. "Kouyate's rescinded red card is crucial. Big players are also now fit
again. "But Arsenal are finishing with a flourish as usual. Alexis Sanchez
is flying again. Alex Iwobi is attracting the sort of headlines the Hammers'
Reece Oxford grabbed after their opening day win at Arsenal. "And then
there's Dimitri Payet. Anything could happen."
Twitter: @jpearcefootball
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "It's a big game, a London derby first of
all. "The season is approaching an end and it's very important for them and
for us. We are both fighting, either for a place in Europe or, from their
point of view, they are trying to be champions... There's a lot at stake."
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger: "As long as mathematically it's possible,
there's a strong possibility [of catching Leicester]. "We know we need
nearly the perfect run - I could have cut the 'nearly' out. "We do not only
look in front of us, we look behind us as well, because we are chased by a
group of teams who can make it very difficult for us."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Arsenal are a strange team, and I can see them winning nearly all their
remaining games this season. The pressure is off the Gunners now, with their
title hopes all but over, which is why I think they will go to Upton Park,
relax, play some open football - and win.
Prediction: 1-2
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Arsenal have won nine of the last 10 Premier League meetings with West Ham.
The Hammers' 2-0 win at the Emirates in the opening game of the season is
their only victory in their last 15 league meetings with Arsenal (D2, L12).
It is 10 years since West Ham last enjoyed a home win over Arsenal - Arsene
Wenger and Alan Pardew had a touchline bust-up after Marlon Harewood's
dramatic late winner in November 2006.
West Ham
West Ham are unbeaten in their last nine matches in all competitions.
After losing their opening two home league games this season, the Hammers
have not lost any since (W7, D6).
West Ham have won half of their 14 league games against teams in the top
half this season, the best record in the top flight.
Dimitri Payet has been directly involved in 23 goals in all competitions
this season, 13 more than any other West Ham player.
This is West Ham's third consecutive London derby - both the previous two
(against Chelsea and Crystal Palace) have ended in 2-2 draws. The Hammers
have the best record in Premier League London derbies this season, picking
up 14 points from seven games.
Arsenal
Arsenal have won just two of their last seven away matches (D3, L2).
The Gunners have scored 29 away goals in this season's Premier League - only
leaders Leicester can match that.
Arsenal are looking to keep three consecutive clean sheets for just the
second time in this season's top flight.
Olivier Giroud has scored five times in six Premier League games against
West Ham; but just one of these goals has come at Upton Park.
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-1 Probability of draw: 27%
Probability of home win: 32% Probability of away win: 41%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by Professor Ian
McHale at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of
football matches.
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Slaven Bilic: This West Ham team wowed me in 30 minutes of pre-season
SLAVEN BILIC
Evening STandard
It is exactly eight months since we began our Premier League season against
tomorrow's opponents Arsenal. In many ways it had been a difficult
pre-season having just arrived at the club and facing many matches, both in
the Europa League qualifying competition and friendlies that had already
been arranged. I always try to be positive, though, and I had already seen
some really good things as we prepared for that match at the Emirates. I
remember, for example, we went to Norwich for a pre-season match. If I am
honest we didn't want to play that game because of our Europa League
schedule but it was a special anniversary game for them and we had to keep
our promise. In the first half, as I remember, we fielded a second team but
in the last half an hour we changed things to a much stronger side and, wow,
I was really impressed with the way we played. I hoped, after seeing the way
we played that day, we would click straight away but, of course, when you
know your opening game is at Arsenal, you know they are capable of anything.
Cheikhou Kouyate gave us a 1-0 half-time lead and although I was pleased
with that, I didn't go into the dressing-room and say: "We're flying. Let's
do the same in the second half."
Arsenal didn't have too many chances but they were winning the second balls
and the 50-50 challenges far too easily. The second half was much better and
I knew we possessed the quality and the potential. It is the same as we go
into tomorrow's match. Okay we have grown as a squad but similar rules
apply. We will have many talented players out on the pitch and if one or two
of them can do something special and jump out of the pattern, then we have a
chance against anyone.
There is a saying, I'm not sure if it is English or not, but it goes: Never
be too big to do the small things. That is basically it, in football, in
business, in life. If you keep to that, you have a chance. Yes, your
opportunities of success in football are better if you have talented players
who can score from free-kicks or beat the opposition one against one. Our
aim here is to put as many of them on the pitch as we can but to also make
them, long term, do the basic things as well.
Of course, that initial victory at Arsenal helped our confidence but don't
forget that, our next two matches, both at home against Leicester and
Bournemouth, ended in defeat and that damaged our self-belief a little.
Fortunately we came straight back with wins at Liverpool, home to Newcastle
and at Manchester City. That was good because, at the start of the season,
the players are still looking at you. When you tell them to do something, of
course, they are going to do it but they are asking themselves: "Is this
right for me?" When they get the proof on the pitch with good performances
and results, then everyone is happy.
I am really looking forward to this match and meeting Arsene Wenger again.
Arsenal were a big club before he came but he has made them much bigger.
Over the years, though, some of the fans have begun to take success for
granted. Of course they are not happy when they haven't won the Premier
League title for so long but Arsenal have true stability at their club and
Arsene has done a brilliant job for them.
Tomorrow's match is the beginning of a busy spell for us — four games in 11
days or five in two weeks if we manage to beat Manchester United in our FA
Cup replay. We have to manage the squad carefully but we are in good shape.
There are only two players still out — James Collins and Sam Byram — and
both were due to train with us today. I have read this week that our three
loan players, Alex Song, Victor Moses and Emmanuel Emenike, are not going to
be retained at the end of this season. This is not true. It is just
speculation. I will be counting on these players for these final few games
if they are picked and all still have a chance to stay with us next season.
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WWW.THEWESTHAMWAY.CO.UK
Raducioiu talks Redknapp, Bilic and the Premier League
April 7, 2016
BKHammer
In an interview with news.bwin, Florin Raducioiu discussed the Hammers,
Harry Redknapp, Slaven Bilic, who he played with at the Boleyn Ground, and
playing in the Premier League. Here's the link to the original article.
Who remembers Florin Raducioiu?
The Romanian arrived in East London from Espanyol in 1996 as one of several
'bargains' Harry Redknapp became known for during his spell as manager of
the club. Raducioiu was signed for just £2.4m – and after just three goals
in 12 first team appearances – was sent back to Spain just six months later
for a mere £1.7m. So it's a surprise to learn that he still has fond
memories of the famous claret and blue, though less of a surprise that he
didn't get on too well with Redknapp. "It has been a long time since I
played in the Premier League."At West Ham I had problems with my manager,
Harry Redknapp, when I arrived, then I quickly returned to Spain with
Espanyol, so my experience of English football was very short-lived. "But
since then many things have changed in the league, which I still consider to
be the most beautiful in Europe. The football is more technical, played at
greater speed – it's incredible to behold."
"Looking back on it now, I have a lot of regrets because West Ham invested a
lot of money in me and I couldn't live up to that price tag, largely down to
my relationship with the manager. We couldn't communicate and I found it
very tough to impose myself physically on the league, as the football I had
been used to was completely different. "As a player, you are frustrated when
you don't play, so when Redknapp put me on the bench I didn't accept it.
Unfortunately things just didn't work out and I decided to go back to
Barcelona. I know some West Ham fans regard me as one of the worst players
in their history, so of course it was a disappointing period in my career.
"I'm pleased to see how far West Ham have come this year with Slaven Bilic,
an ex-teammate of mine. I think very highly of him as a man and have good
memories of him as a player. Bilic is a stern boss and the work he has done
with his current squad is fantastic."
And on England's chances in Euro 2016…
"England are a very young, interesting team."They have discovered some
players this season who have been incredible, like Jamie Vardy and Dele
Alli. I think England should reach the quarter finals at the least, but I
hope they're able to go further."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Arsenal preview: Petr Cech could return for crucial clash
By Pete Hall
Last Updated: 08/04/16 1:29pm
SSN
Petr Cech could make his return to the starting line-up for Arsenal's
crucial London derby clash with West Ham at the Boleyn Ground. With
Leicester so far ahead at the top of the table, the Gunners are likely to
have to earn maximum points from their remaining fixtures to have any chance
of securing a first league title in 12 years. Victory over Watford last
weekend came at a canter, but the Gunners looked much more like their normal
selves. West Ham will be a different proposition altogether in Saturday's
early kick-off, however. The Hammers have exceeded all expectations this
campaign, and hold European aspirations of their own. All eyes will be on
Dimitri Payet ahead of the encounter, especially as Arsene Wenger revealed
this week he considered signing the France international.
Team news
West Ham have the luxury of a fully-fit squad. Defenders James Collins and
Sam Byram were due to train on Friday following spells out injured, and
although they are unlikely to be thrown straight back in their return means
boss Slaven Bilic has an empty treatment room for a change. Midfielder
Cheikhou Kouyate is available after his red card against Crystal Palace last
weekend was overturned.
Midfielders Aaron Ramsey (thigh) and Mathieu Flamini (hamstring) could come
into contention after recovering from injuries. Goalkeeper Cech is expected
to start after returning to the substitutes' bench against Watford following
a calf problem, with David Ospina making way. Jack Wilshere (leg) and Tomas
Rosicky (thigh) were slated to play in Friday night's Under-21s game, while
Santi Cazorla (Achilles) and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (knee) continue their
rehabilitation.
Opta stats
West Ham are looking to win both home and away matches against Arsenal in
the same league season for the first time since 2006/07.
Arsenal's defeat to the Hammers (0-2) on opening weekend of the 2015-16
season ended a run of nine consecutive Premier League wins against them.
Cheikhou Kouyate has scored in two of his three Premier League games for
West Ham against the Gunners.
Arsene Wenger has won nine and lost just two of his 16 Premier League visits
to the Boleyn Ground (W9 D5 L2). The only away grounds he's won more often
at in the league are Goodison Park and Villa Park (both 10 wins).
Olivier Giroud has found the net five times in six Premier League games
against West Ham; but just one of these has been netted at the Boleyn
Ground.
Alex Iwobi has scored in both of his first two league starts for Arsenal,
something only Ian Wright and Davor Suker (scored in first three) also
managed in the Premier League.
Dimitri Payet has netted four direct free-kick goals for West Ham this
season in all competitions, a haul only Chelsea's Willian can better (six).
The Hammers are unbeaten in their last 13 home games (W7 D6), the longest
such current run in the top-flight.
Slaven Bilic's side have the best record in Premier League London derbies
this season, picking up 14 points from seven games (Arsenal have only
managed five points from six games so far).
Merson's predictions
Both teams need to win. It's a good game really because a draw is no good to
either of them. If Arsenal think they are going to win the league then they
need to win this and a victory is as important to West Ham if they are to
get in the top four. This is a hard one to call because West Ham are doing
really well, but no one is better than Arsenal when playing without
pressure.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2 (Sky Bet odds 15/2)
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimitri Payet's career stats prove Arsene Wenger could not be more wrong
13:16, 8 APR 2016 UPDATED 13:16, 8 APR 2016
BY RICHARD INNES
The Arsenal boss implied he didn't sign the West Ham star because his career
has been "up and down". Payet's numbers say otherwise
The Mirror
Arsenal fans would probably quite fancy having Dimitri Payet on their books
right now. Payet hasn't just been West Ham's star of the season. He's been
one of the stars of the Premier League, full stop. Assists, goals, belting
free-kicks, power, strength… he's the sort of player most Gooners would love
to see at The Emirates. Which is why many of them were a little annoyed when
they heard Arsene Wenger's latest comments about his fellow Frenchman. "I
have known him for a long, long time," Wenger said when asked about Payet in
his press conference ahead of West Ham vs Arsenal. "When he played at St
Etienne, he was there for a few years and we watched him many times. He has
all the attributes to be a top, top player and he is that. "He is 29 years
old already, but this season he has matured a lot as he has come back into
the national team when he looked to be out. That shows he has been much more
consistent. He has always had top talent, even when in periods he has been a
bit up and down."
Translation?
Wenger didn't believe Payet was consistent enough to come to Arsenal.
"Fair enough," some of you might say. "After all, Payet only really come
good this season."
Except that's simply not true. As his figures for goals and assists prove,
Payet has been consistently producing the goods for at least the last SIX
seasons:
Dimitri Payet: goals and assists combined
2015/16 (West Ham) 17*
2014/15 (Marseille) 24
2013/14 (Marseille) 14
2012/13 (Lille) 25
2011/12 (Lille) 12
2010/11 (St Etienne) 16
*and counting
Double figures EVERY SINGLE SEASON.
So, Wenger was keeping tabs on West Ham's new hero through this entire
period… and still chose to ignore him.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender James Tomkins insists Hammers fear nobody after stunning
campaign
17:49, 8 APR 2016 UPDATED 17:49, 8 APR 2016
BY MATT LAWLESS
Slaven Bilic's side are right up there fighting for a top four finish in the
Premier League and welcome Arsenal to Upton Park this weekend
The Mirror
Unbeaten in nine games, it has got to the point where West Ham "do not fear
anyone". They play Arsenal on Saturday before Manchester United in the FA
Cup next Wednesday, followed by a trip to Leicester the following weekend.
But confidence is so high in Slaven Bilic's camp right now that defender
James Tomkins revealed the Hammers believe they can turn over anyone.
Certainly, it helps when you have a world class player like Dimitri Payet.
"Of all the players I've played with at West Ham, Payet ranks right up there
with the best of them," said Tomkins, speaking exclusively to Mirror Sport.
James Tomkins spoke exclusively to our man, Matty Lawless, at West Ham's
training ground : "I've played with some good players in my time here. But
when it comes to people at the top of their game, Dimi has to be up there
with the best of them. He's such a great player." So great, in fact, Tomkins
would place Payet above the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as
the best free-kick taker on the planet. "Nobody is on his level at the
minute of scoring them week-in, week-out," he added. It's frightening
really. Free-kicks are like penalties to him! He's just unbelievable. "I
think he's got to be the best free-kick taker in the world. I mean, I'm just
trying to think who is actually better. Ronaldo? Messi? He's up there in
that world class category. "Without a shadow of a doubt, France should take
him to Euro 2016. Even if they just bring him on for the free-kicks!"
Payet's trademark prowess of sending set-pieces flying into the top-corner
was seen yet again last weekend as Crystal Palace were unable to stop him.
Indeed, Arsene Wenger will be determined to deny his compatriot at all costs
when he takes his Arsenal side to the Boleyn Ground, still clinging on to
the faint hope of winning the title. The Gunners are third, 11 points behind
shock leaders Leicester, and their 4-0 win over Watford last week maintained
their championship chances. But Tomkins, who is pushing for a recall to West
Ham's defence after his return from a calf injury, believes Arsenal have
blown it, suggesting a lack of leadership could be to blame. "Arsenal go and
do really well at the start of the year and think they will go and win the
title," said the 27-year-old. "Then suddenly they have a little slip up and
other teams have pounced. Look at Leicester. They are flying. Even Spurs
have pounced on them this year. "Apart from Jack Wilshere being out, this
has probably been the longest time where they haven't had a lot of injuries.
"You need someone like a John Terry character to get people together. You
need your leaders about the place."
The Hammers are threatening to pounce on Arsenal too. A win on Saturday
lunchtime would put them four points behind their London rivals with six
games left to play. And it was against Arsenal when their incredible season
started, with a 2-0 opening day win at the Emirates last August.
"It seems like a long time ago now," said Tomkins. "But that win against
Arsenal completely changed everything. "Now, I wouldn't say we fear anyone.
Especially with the way we have been playing or can play, we have turned
over loads of the best teams in the league this year. That has been what's
been refreshing about this season. We don't go into any games fearing the
worst. The whole attitude has changed. We go into games believing we can
turn teams over. "But we know Arsenal are unpredictable. They are going to
be tough to beat. They are still fighting for a high finish and there's
still even the possibility of them winning the league. "That looks quite
unlikely but still, you never know what you're going to get with them
because they do have great players. "Mesut Ozil is on fire at the moment.
You've got Alexis Sanchez who is always a danger when he's at the top of his
game. And the young lad Alex Iwobi is looking very good too. "We know we
need to be ready for them all."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham "won the lottery" with Olympic Stadium deal says Arsenal's Arsene
Wenger before final Upton Park visit
22:30, 8 APR 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Boss who battled financial restrictions caused by the Gunners funding their
new home congratulates neighbours who'll pay just £15m plus £2.5m in annual
rent
The Mirror
Arsene Wenger says West Ham have won the lottery by being handed the Olympic
Stadium. Arsenal manager Wenger believes the Hammers' deal of the century,
as it has been dubbed, for their new home will save them years of financial
difficulty. West Ham pipped Tottenham to win the race for the keys to the
Olympic Stadium, and it will cost them just a £15million one-off payment
plus £2.5m per year in rent. Wenger knows just how lucky the Hammers, sixth
in the table and chasing a surprise Champions League place, are to secure
their new stadium at a cut-price cost. He has talked regularly about how the
club "suffered financially" and had to tighten the purse strings before they
moved from Highbury to the £400m Emirates Stadium. And ahead of his
third-placed side's final trip to Upton Park on Saturday lunchtime, Wenger
said: "I say [to West Ham], 'Well done! You have won in the lottery, and you
do not need to sweat like I did for long years, and fight for every pound.'
"I could say that, for me, the first six years were very difficult
financially. Going into April, thinking if you are not in the Champions
League you are in trouble. That has been absolutely super-difficult. "So
it's very well done, they have made a good deal, they have negotiated very
well, it was a fight with Tottenham.
"For me, it is similar to the Man City situation — Man City got a new
stadium for £20million, basically. Yes they don't have to go through the
pain. They have taken this opportunity and taken it very well." Asked if it
was fair, Wenger smiled: "I leave you with that statement. Is it fair? Is it
not fair? It is legal."
West Ham hope to extend the stadium's capacity from 54,000 to 60,000. Wenger
said: "Of course, I think the stadium will change [West Ham's chances of
being top-of-the-table rivals for Arsenal]. "Tottenham will go the same way,
they will create as well a 60,000-seater stadium. "And [Spurs] will be
followed by Chelsea as well. "That gives more resources to everybody and
will make the Premier League more competitive." Wenger also believes West
Ham will be more attractive to mega-rich foreign investors. "It is
possible," he said.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet found right club and manager at right time
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 8, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The Mirror's John Cross joins us today as a special guest blogger and casts
his eye over tomorrow's huge Boleyn clash against the Arsenal. 'Crossie ' is
an old pal and has been close to the north London club since he was working
on the area's local newspaper. He has since become one of the most respected
tabloid writers in the country and it's a real pleasure to see him on
ClaretandHugh as our guest for one of the biggest games of the season. He
knows Arsenal well and is the author of the recent autobiography on the
Gunners boss.
By John Cross
It is perfectly right that West Ham should no consider themselves one of the
big boys – they have come so far this season and of course Dimi Payet can
never be far from the conversation when we talk about the Hammers. Some my
have believed that when Arsene Wenger said earlier in the week that "Arsenal
didn't need him" when they showed an initial interest last summer he was
gilding the lily a bit and getting into a few mind games. But I don't think
he was because until this season under the brilliant Slaven Bilic, Payet had
never shown the level of ability or indeed focus he has done at Upton Park.
And that probably, along with his age of course, created a few doubts. But
he has been made the main man at the Boleyn and the boss has put him at the
centre of everything which has given hm everything he needs to kick on and
become the star many believed he could always be. I've been frtunate to have
a couple of sit down interviews with Slaven and the man really is something
else. He has presence, ability, and real talent. Any player would play out
of their skin for the man – great person. Had Payet gone to a United, City,
Arsenal or Chelsea it may not have happened for him because he could easily
have Ibeen in and out of the team. instead he has found the right club at
the right time under precisely the right manager. And to be honest – given
the mediocre form Arsenal have been showing – I can see him and this
excellent West Ham team hurting Arsenal tomorrow – it could be a draw but I
think a West Ham win is more likely on current form. They play so well
against the top teams and with the top four still a possibility they will be
going for it in a big way. It's a must not lose for Arsenal and that in
itself will create a lot of pressure. West Ham really has become a club on
it's way and how refreshing it was to hear David Sullivan say they had
invested in Payet for NOW not for the future. Clubs may come in for him this
summer but I don't see him leaving. He has become the top man, you are
moving onto the fabulous Olympic Stadium and can become a regular top six
clubs. Things are looking great for the Hammers and they could look even
better after the game at lunchtime.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal team news for Boleyn
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 8, 2016 in News
C and H
Arsenal Keeper Petr Cech is set to return for the clash against the Irons
tomorrow. The former Chelsea stopper injured his calf in a defeat to Swansea
in March and he has not played since, but he was an unused substitute
against Watford last weekend and is now fully fit. He is set to take over
from David Ospina's but beyond that the isitors are likely to be unchanged
for a crucial match to both clubs. Alex Iwobi has been starting for Arsene
Wenger's side and the 19-year-old should again be on the left wing. Danny
Welbeck started ahead of Olivier Giroud last weekend and the Englishman is
expected to keep his place. Defensively Gabriel will keep Per Mertesacker
out of the side. Aaron Ramsey and Mathieu Flamini are fit and they could
return to the first-team squad, but the midfield pairing of Francis Coquelin
and Mohamed Elneny are expected to start.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slav poses a big Payet question
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 8, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic appears to have suggested that the West Ham board's Dmitri
Payet coup will see other clubs totally re-thinking their signing policies.
There's a widespread view in the game that players of his age – 29 – should
not command big fees because they have no sell-on value at the end of the
contract. Directors and managers fear the player's best years are behind him
and would get little or nothing back at the end of a contract. Payet may of
course be an exception the exception but his stunning form will
unquestionable put a few thinking caps on in Premier League boardrooms. And
Slav doesn't think so saying: "Twenty-eight, when we signed him, is a good
age. It's the best age for a footballer. Now the players are playing their
best football when they are 32 because they have matured – not as a player,
but as a man. "They have their families, they are more wise and they can
concentrate totally on football and dedicate that for football. They know
they have just three, four or five years left."
Payet is at the same level and maybe well beyond the likes of David Beckham,
Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale as a dead ball expert after five of his 12
goal tally this term came from free kicks. Bilic said: "You can't say that
anyone was better than Beckham taking free-kicks. But then again, you can
say the same thing about Dimitri this season. In the space of 10 minutes we
can name five or six great ones. "You have plenty who were doing that but
this season the way Dimitri was putting them in the goal.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slav has no answers!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 8, 2016 in News
C and H
Slaven Bilic admits he has no answer to the refereeing controversies that
have disfigured our season. Although he declares himself " a friend of new
technology" he says: "It has to be low profile. The game needs to flow. It
is hard for the officials now." Speaking to the Evening Standard he said:
"Take the Champions League match involving Wolfsburg and Real Madrid on
Wednesday. Early in the match, Gareth Bale went down and the penalty appeal
was turned down. Shortly afterwards, Wolfsburg were awarded a penalty for a
foul on Andre Schurrle. The first time I watched both incidents, I said: "No
penalty for Real Madrid, yes for Wolfsburg." When I watched it again, I
thought, definitely a penalty for Bale but not for Schurrle! Everything
should be done to ease the situation for referees but how you do it, I
don't know."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's top-four challenge in the Premier League defies statistical logic
ESPN
Arsene Wenger feels West Ham's Dimitri Payet has grown into a top player
this season. West Ham remain, stubbornly, on the edges of the Champions
League race. Most years a team like West Ham, ambling along in fifth or
sixth, within a shout of a top-four place when April rolled around, would be
the underdog story of the year. This isn't most years. With Leicester City's
storybook championship run rightfully hogging all the headlines, West Ham
have been able to trudge along in relative obscurity, free from the usual
breathless, will the little guy be able to keep this up, stories that
usually accompany similar seasons. However, with April upon us, and the
Hammers sitting in sixth only three points out of fourth place and hosting
Arsenal in a pivotal match this weekend, the question remains. Are West Ham
serious contenders in the Champions League race?
At first glance the answer is very simply, no. West Ham have all the
hallmarks of a team built on things that are unlikely to continue, and each
further layer of analysis looks worse than the one before. There's no
problem with their plus-12 goal differential, which is tied with Manchester
United for fifth in the Premier League. But that goal differential is built
on an attack which is seventh best in the league at scoring at 1.58 per
game, and a defence that is ninth best at conceding goals at 1.19.
Neither West Ham's attack nor defence are particularly robust, but the
combination of the two just does enough work to get by. There's nothing
inherently wrong with that, but it does differ notably from most contenders.
Even flawed teams like Manchester City and Manchester United, the two teams
that West Ham are chasing, tend to have their flaws concentrated on one side
of the ball. For all City's defensive fragility this year, no team has
scored more goals per game than their 1.81. And for all United's bluntness
in attack, only Tottenham concedes less frequently than the 0.87 goals per
game that Louis van Gaal's men allow.
Moving from goals to expected goals makes the picture look even bleaker for
West Ham. They're ninth in expected goals per game with 1.39 and an
astonishing 16th in the league when it comes to expected goals conceded per
game with 1.60. Only Sunderland, Norwich and Newcastle have conceded a worse
set of shots this season than West Ham have. This is a textbook example of a
team which has achieved success not because of the balance of their play,
but because they've spent game after game turning unlikely shots into goals,
while their opponents fail to do the same despite having on balance, easier
opportunities.
West Ham's continued push for top four places in the Premier League defies
statistical logic.
In attack there's a very obvious explanation for this of course, and his
name is Dimitri Payet. The Frenchman's free kick routine is quickly becoming
legendary, and he's been a monster in the final third all season, curling,
striking, poking, and otherwise effortlessly landing the ball in the back of
the net. It's no surprise then, that Payet's nine goals are a full four over
his expected tally, that's the second biggest over performance in the
league, behind only Riyad Mahrez.
In addition to Payet, Manuel Lanzini is also fourth in overperformance in
the Premier League this season, his six goals doubling up the three expected
goals predicted for the midfielder. There's not a lot to be done about that
really. Ideally, West Ham, would like to be creating better shots and easier
chances for their attackers to score, but it's hard to complain when Payet
is seemingly scoring worldies every other week. The concern is what happens
when the wonder goals dry up.
Then there's the fact that West Ham have had an extremely odd distribution
this season when it comes to goals. Slaven Bilic's team are particularly
unusual in that while they are generally the better team when the game is
tied, taking 55 percent of the shots on target in a game, they are decidedly
worse both when they are winning, where they only take 45 percent and losing
where they take 46 percent. It's an odd dynamic, besides West Ham,
Bournemouth is the only other team in the Premier League that breaks down
that way.
It's possible that the dynamic stems from the fact that neither West Ham's
attack, nor defence is dominant, so when opponents are able to key in on one
side of the ball or the other they have success. But, whatever the reason,
the Hammers are at their best when the game is tied. They've also played
comparatively little football under those circumstances. The Hammers have
spent just under 41 minutes per game this season tied with their opponents,
that's the third lowest number of any Premier League team, with only
Bournemouth and Manchester City spending less on level terms.
One reason for West Ham's continued ability to score is Dimitri Payet's
uncanny ability to score from free kicks. On the other hand, West Ham have
spent a lot of time winning by exactly one goal, 638 minutes to be exact.
That's second only to Leicester City. When they go up a goal, West Ham
become a fairly one dimensional defensive team, they stop trying to attack,
and hope to absorb pressure and preserve their lead, only they aren't
particularly skilled enough defensively to pull it off, which leads to
Adrian getting pelted with shots on goal. The goalkeeper had a great season,
and the fact that West Ham do, consistently, preserve those one goal leads
is a testament to him.
Here's the irony. If Adrian had been somewhat less heroic, and had in fact
conceded at a closer to league average rate when West Ham were winning, then
West Ham would have conceded more leads and spent more time playing at a
tied game state where they perform better, and less time cautiously
protecting a one-goal advantage. In other words, the same luck that has
contributed to West Ham's position in the table, is also, at least in part,
likely causing their underlying numbers to appear worse than they are.
Usually this kind of stuff evens out over the course of a season, or at
least evens out enough that there aren't appreciable differences in the
underlying numbers. Sometimes though, an odd confluence of circumstances, a
mix of playing styles, skill, and luck can mix to have a distortive effect.
That doesn't mean that West Ham's alarming underlying numbers should be
discounted, but it does mean that there are at least some mitigating factors
to help explain them.
West Ham aren't some underrated giant. It doesn't erase the easy to see ways
in which they've ridden great and unique performances to near the top of the
table. Performances that likely won't last forever. But, at the same time,
West Ham probably aren't quite as lucky as their underlying numbers might
have you believe.
The reality is, if their goal scoring and goalkeeping had been slightly less
magical there's a good chance their numbers would look better as a result.
West Ham probably won't challenge for the top four over the last month of
the season, and a loss at home to Arsenal on Saturday would likely end their
already slim hopes. But, they'll likely be in the Europa League next season.
And, as a team, they deserve credit for that. It's been more than just a
lucky fluke.
Mike L. Goodman is a Washington, D.C.-based soccer writer and analyst
covering primarily European soccer. Follow him on Twitter @TheM_L_G.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How West Ham United are laying the foundations for long-term success
West Ham are pushing for Champions League qualification and in an FA Cup
quarter-final. Under the exciting Slaven Bilic, they can avoid being the
Premier League's latest flash in the pan
Jacob Steinberg
Friday 8 April 2016 13.49 BST
The Guardian
Four years after promotion from the Championship, West Ham United, who take
on Arsenal in the early kick-off on Saturday, are challenging for Champions
League qualification under an exciting manager and on Wednesday face
Manchester United for a place in the FA Cup semi-finals. As West Ham prepare
to move to the Olympic Stadium, people are asking whether this season is a
flash in the pan or if they are capable of establishing themselves as title
contenders. What are the key factors determining current success and future
prospects?
1 The manager
It always was a marriage of convenience between West Ham and Sam Allardyce
and no one was getting anything out of it in the end. Supporters pined for a
manager with a more expansive approach, someone who got their desire for
attractive football and Slaven Bilic ticked that box. As a former player, he
understood the West Ham way. At the same time, the club knew that replacing
the pragmatic Allardyce with someone who had not managed in the Premier
League was a risk, despite Bilic's experiences with Croatia, Besiktas and
Lokomotiv Moscow, and a shambolic 4-3 defeat at home to Bournemouth in
August generated a sense of foreboding around Upton Park. Those fears
quickly proved unfounded, though, as Bilic demonstrated he is a quick
learner, reacting to the Bournemouth game by masterminding a 3-0 victory at
Anfield, West Ham's first win there since 1963. The holder of a law degree,
he is a highly intelligent man and those close to him speak of a manager
whose charisma, charm and passion allow him to command the respect and
admiration of his squad. The players have embraced his methods. They are
free to express themselves on the pitch and those who have been around for a
long time cannot remember training being this intense. A day off early in
the week is followed by sharp sessions as match day approaches and Bilic is
a prominent figure on the training ground, allowing his assistants, Nikola
Jurcevic and the popular Edin Terzic, to run the sessions while occasionally
stepping in to offer a quiet word of advice here and there.
West Ham are not flawless. They have struggled to assert themselves in
several games, often starting slowly against lesser sides, and have ridden
their luck at times. It makes their overall level hard to assess. Which is
the real West Ham? The one that took 30 minutes to string two passes
together against Norwich in September? Or the one that outplayed Tottenham
Hotspur last month? Either way, they know how to stay in games. Take the 2-1
victory over Southampton on 28 December, when they were fortunate to be only
1-0 down at half-time, before Bilic's substitutions changed the game. He can
make tactical tweaks on the go and he is not afraid to ditch Plan A, which
is why West Ham have recovered 12 points from losing positions this season.
Bilic is capable of surprising his rivals, with the win over Spurs notable
for his use of a 5-3-2 formation after months of veering between 4-3-3 and
4-2-3-1, and his calm demeanour behind the scenes has helped the team
maintain their composure when they are behind. Survival was the main
objective at the start of the season but it was not long before West Ham
were setting their targets higher.
2 The board
As one board member puts it, 20 minutes in Bilic's company is all it takes
for people to warm to him and David Sullivan and David Gold, the club's
co-owners, knew that they had their man at the end of the interview with the
Croat. There is chemistry, trust, a sense that the owners and the manager
are pulling in the same direction. Sullivan and Gold have not got everything
right since buying the club just over six years ago. Hiring Avram Grant in
2011 was a huge mistake. West Ham went down and needed Allardyce to piece
them back together. Yet Sullivan and Gold are experienced and the good has
outweighed the bad. Reeling under Icelandic ownership in 2010, West Ham were
on the brink of financial oblivion. The squad was a mess and Mark Noble has
admitted that the club were run like a circus. Now they are challenging for
the Champions League qualification and will move into the Olympic Stadium
this summer. The challenge is to keep growing. West Ham have had successful
seasons in the past but the problem has been backing it up consistently.
Previous regimes have stood still, leaving supporters cold with faceless PR.
Sullivan and Gold are not everyone's cup of tea but they have engaged with
fans via traditional and social media and while West Ham cannot compete with
the financial muscle of the traditional big clubs they are starting to
challenge.
Without spending eye-watering sums, West Ham have been astute in the
transfer market in the past two years. Sullivan is heavily involved in
identifying and securing targets, while Tony Henry, who worked with David
Moyes at Everton, has performed excellently since being put in charge of the
recruitment department. Diafra Sakho, signed for £3.75m, was playing in the
French second division. Cheikhou Kouyaté joined from the Belgian champions,
Anderlecht, for £5.63m. Angelo Ogbonna arrived for £8.25m from Juventus, the
£4.5m midfielder Pedro Obiang has impressed since joining from Sampdoria and
even Dimitri Payet, signed for £11.25m from Marseille, was overlooked by
other clubs. It has reached the point where even the groundsmen cannot tear
their eyes away when Payet practises his free-kicks in training and sighs of
disappointment can be heard around Chadwell Heath when the ball flies off
target. West Ham believe that the 29-year-old is worth every penny of his
£125,000-a-week, five-year deal. That was a sign of West Ham's intent and
perhaps they will look to make one marquee signing this summer; they have
targeted two expensive forwards, for instance, Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette
and Marseille's Michy Batshuayi.
Yet they have not been afraid to sign players from the Championship. Aaron
Cresswell cost £3.5m from Ipswich Town, Sam Byram cost £3.7m from Leeds
United and Michail Antonio cost £7m from Nottingham Forest. Antonio, 26, has
scored seven goals despite only breaking into the team in December. Loan
deals have also given West Ham time to think. While they signed Manuel
Lanzini on a permanent basis last month, waiting before spending £9m on a
22-year-old Argentinian who had been playing in the Middle East, Emmanuel
Emenike, Victor Moses and Alex Song will probably be sent back to their
parent clubs.
4 Squad depth
Bilic has selection headaches now that he has a fully fit squad and,
although West Ham's FA Cup quarter-final replay against United is a few days
away, he will play his strongest side when Arsenal visit Upton Park on
Saturday afternoon. But for the injury crisis that decimated West Ham's
attack in the winter months, they might have challenged for the title. Yet
Bilic looks back on that period positively. The squad players stepped up and
West Ham had to graft during a nine-game unbeaten run.
Bilic did not hide his frustration about the spate of muscle injuries that
threatened to derail his side, prompting the former West Ham winger Matthew
Etherington to criticise the quality of the pitches at Chadwell Heath. There
is respect for the experienced fitness coach, Miljenko Rak, and West Ham
hope that moving to their new site in Rush Green will solve the problem.
5 The stadium
Arsenal are generating more match-day revenue than any club in the world,
making over £100m from the Emirates Stadium last year. Manchester United
made £87.96m from Old Trafford, Chelsea made £71.84m from Stamford Bridge.
Liverpool made £57.85m from Anfield and Tottenham made £41.83m from White
Hart Lane. West Ham made £19.9m from Upton Park, which holds 35,000.
Although the majority of income for Premier League clubs comes from the
broadcast money, moving to a bigger, commercially attractive stadium will
strengthen West Ham's position. Far from struggling to fill the Olympic
Stadium, West Ham are expanding the capacity from 54,000 to 60,000 and could
eventually increase it to 66,000. The attraction is clear. Upton Park can be
difficult to reach and even harder to get away from after full time. Getting
to Stratford is simple. The team are playing well. There are whispers of a
visit from Barcelona in pre-season. Champions League football is a
possibility.
What West Ham can hope to make from the stadium remains unclear, with
critics of the move pushing the London Legacy Development Committee to
release the full terms of a deal that has led to disputes over the use of
public funds and the cost to taxpayers, but it has boosted their commercial
potential. Last year they agreed a record shirt sponsorship deal with the
online bookmakers Betway, who agreed to pay £20m over three and a half
years. "When the deal was signed with West Ham United we were in the right
place at the right time, but there was certainly a long term view towards
the Olympic Stadium and the growth of the club because of that move," a
spokesman for Betway told the Guardian.
The challenge for West Ham is to keep their identity after the move. Upton
Park remains one of the most atmospheric grounds in the country and, while
the club are pulling out all the stops to make the Olympic Stadium feel like
home, the adjustment will not be straightforward. Ambition must not come at
the cost of the club's soul.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham vs Arsenal guide: What time is kick-off, what TV channel is it on
and team news... here's all you need to know
West Ham and Arsenal go head-to-head on Saturday afternoon
Anything but a win for the Gunners would all but end their title hopes
West Ham will be looking to keep pressure on the top four with a victory
By RORY BRIGSTOCK-BARRON FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:31, 8 April 2016 | UPDATED: 11:32, 8 April 2016
Arsenal face a tough test in their bid to catch Leicester at the top of the
Premier League table when they visit top four chasing West Ham for a London
derby at Upton Park.
Where is it?
The match will be taking place at Upton Park in East London.
Where can I watch it?
BT Sport 1 will be showing the first Premier League encounter of the weekend
from 12pm, 45 minutes before kick-off.
West Ham are unbeaten in their last six Premier League games including wins
over Everton and Tottenham and a 2-2 draw at Chelsea. The Hammers have
scored seven in their last three but conceded six, and will have been
disappointed to have drawn with struggling Crystal Palace after leading 2-1
in Saturday's clash at Upton Park before Cheikhou Kouyate's sending off.
Arsene Wenger's side look to have turned things around in the last couple of
games with big wins over Everton and Watford helping to keep their slim
title hopes alive. These two wins followed a draw in the north London derby
with Tottenham and defeats by Manchester United and Swansea. West Ham are
looking to win both home and away matches against Arsenal in the same league
season for the first time since 2006/07. Arsenal's defeat to the Hammers
(0-2) on opening weekend of the 2015-16 season ended a run of nine
consecutive Premier League wins against them. Cheikhou Kouyate has scored in
two of his three Premier League games for West Ham against the Gunners.
Arsene Wenger has won nine and lost just two of his 16 Premier League visits
to the Boleyn Ground (W9 D5 L2). The only away grounds he's won more often
at in the league are Goodison Park and Villa Park (both 10 wins). Olivier
Giroud has found the net five times in six Premier League games against West
Ham; but just one of these has been netted at the Boleyn Ground.
Alex Iwobi has scored in both of his first two league starts for Arsenal,
something only Ian Wright and Davor Suker (scored in first three) also
managed in the Premier League. Dimitri Payet has netted four direct
free-kick goals for West Ham this season in all competitions, a haul only
Chelsea's Willian can better (six). The Hammers are unbeaten in their last
13 home games (W7 D6), the longest such current run in the top-flight. The
Gunners have made a league-high 22 errors leading to opposition shots this
season. Slaven Bilic's side have the best record in Premier League London
derbies this season, picking up 14 points from seven games (Arsenal have
only managed five points from six games so far).
What are the odds?
Odds (subject to change): West Ham 11/4, Draw 11/4, Arsenal EVS.
Who is the star man on each team?
Dimitri Payet has proved time and time again that he is West Ham's key man
this season and his performance could be one of the deciding factors at
Upton Park.
The Frenchman has scored in three of his last four games for the Hammers and
has spearheaded their surge up the table since his return from injury at the
start of the year.
Alexis Sanchez could be the key man for Arsenal as the Chilean finally seems
to have shrugged off his slump.
Sanchez has netted in two of his last three Premier League games and looks
the man most likely to propel the Gunners back into the title race.
Team News
West Ham
West Ham have the luxury of a fully-fit squad for the visit of Arsenal.
Defenders James Collins and Sam Byram were due to train on Friday following
spells out injured, and although they are unlikely to be thrown straight
back in their return means boss Slaven Bilic has an empty treatment room for
a change. Midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate is available after his red card
against Crystal Palace last weekend was overturned.
Provisional squad: Adrian, Randolph, Tomkins, Ogbonna, Reid, Cresswell,
O'Brien, Oxford, Noble, Kouyate, Song, Obiang, Moses, Lanzini, Payet,
Antonio, Valencia, Carroll, Emenike, Sakho.
Arsenal
Midfielders Aaron Ramsey (thigh) and Mathieu Flamini (hamstring) could come
into contention after recovering from injuries before Arsenal play West Ham
on Saturday. Goalkeeper Petr Cech is expected to start after returning to
the substitutes' bench against Watford following a calf problem, with David
Ospina making way. Jack Wilshere (leg) and Tomas Rosicky (thigh) were slated
to play in Friday night's Under-21s game, while Santi Cazorla (Achilles) and
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (knee) continue their rehabilitation.
Provisional squad: Ospina, Cech, Macey, Monreal, Gibbs, Gabriel, Chambers,
Mertesacker, Koscielny, Bellerin, Elneny, Ramsey, Flamini, Ozil,
Reine-Adelaide, Iwobi, Sanchez, Campbell, Walcott, Welbeck, Giroud.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: Chance to sign Pato turned down
Matt Law, football news correspondent
8 APRIL 2016 • 10:32AM
Telegraph.co.uk
West Ham United have rejected the chance to sign Alexandre Pato at the end
of the season as the striker desperately searches for a new home. Despite
scoring his first Chelsea goal on his long-awaited debut against Aston Villa
last week, Pato already fears that he will not be staying at Stamford Bridge
past his loan that finishes at the end of the season. Representatives of
Pato attempted to use his goal, albeit a penalty, to attract interest in the
Brazilian but got nowhere with a call into West Ham. The Hammers are not
interested in signing 26-year-old Pato, as they seek a 20-goal-a-season
forward for next season. Their targets include Michy Batshuayi, Alexandre
Lacazette, Christian Benteke and Wilfried Bony.
Tottenham Hotspur have also been sounded out over Pato's availability in the
summer, but head coach Mauricio Pochettino has no interest in the former AC
Milan man. Spurs are rivalling West Ham for Batshuayi and had already turned
down Pato on two previous occasions. The White Hart Lane club have also sent
scouts to watch FC Utrecht's France Under-21 international Sebastien Haller.
It is clear Pato is desperate to stay in England and, in particular, London
but he may well find himself short of offers and forced to consider a move
to China instead. Pato had hoped to play enough at Chelsea to either earn a
permanent contract with the Blues or convince another Premier League club to
offer him a deal. Having signed on loan from Corinthians at the end of
January, it took Pato more than two months to play his first game for
Chelsea. He may well get another chance against Swansea City on Saturday
with Diego Costa still suspended and Loic Remy struggling with injury. But
there appears to be no long-term future for Pato at Chelsea under new head
coach Antonio Conte, who has made Edinson Cavani, Gonzalo Higuain and Romelu
Lukaku his top striker targets. Conte also wants new defenders, but Roma are
fighting to try to keep Kostas Manolas, who is also a target of Arsenal, by
offering the Greece international a new contract.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Everyone now expects Dimitri Payet to score, purrs West Ham boss Slaven
Bilic as Frenchman targets more free-kick success
Arsene Wenger decided against signing Dimitri Payet due to other options
But Frenchman has scored five times direct from free-kicks since January
Slaven Bilic believes Arsenal's loss has been West Ham's gain this term
Bilic has a fully-fit squad to face Gunners in crucial Premier League clash
By ADAM SHERGOLD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:50, 8 April 2016 | UPDATED: 09:50, 8 April 2016
Slaven Bilic believes Arsenal's loss has been West Ham's massive gain when
it comes to French superstar Dimitri Payet. Ahead of the their meeting at
Upton Park on Saturday, Arsene Wenger admitted he had been watching Payet
for a 'long, long time' before West Ham signed him from Marseille for £10.7m
last summer. The Arsenal manager insisted he opted against signing him
because of sheer number of creative players already in his squad, but
Payet's then age of 28 and consequent lack of sell-on value may also have
been a factor. But 12 goals and 11 assists in his debut season for the
Hammers have proven correct Bilic's hunch that Payet is in his prime as they
push for the Champions League places. Bilic said: '28 is a good age, it's
the best age for a footballer. He was playing at Marseille, one of the
biggest clubs in Europe. 'He was one of their most creative players, he
scored goals, he was a key man to give the balls to whoever was playing in
front of him or around him. 'That's why we wanted him, we tried to get him
and thank God we got him. You have many clubs who paid more money than we
paid for Dimitri for players the same age as him.'
Payet has been instrumental in a West Ham team that sits just three points
behind Manchester City in fourth and seven behind Arsenal entering the final
stretch. His spectacular free-kicks have understandably attracted attention,
as Bilic says: 'The problem he has now is that in training everybody - even
the groundsman - is expecting every time he shoots to put in in the top
corner. 'And if it isn't in the top corner, then all of us are quite
disappointed. 'The last one [against Crystal Palace last weekend] was
unbelievable. Then for France, Old Trafford and then Blackburn and
Bournemouth. It all happened in a couple of months. The tempo he is putting
them in is amazing.' In their final season at Upton Park before moving to
the Olympic Stadium, West Ham have embarked on a run of 13 unbeaten home
games in the Premier League and 15 in all competitions - a fact that even
took Bilic aback. 'I didn't know we are unbeaten for 13 games,' he said.
'It shows we are approaching every game as a single game. Whether league or
Cup, it is game-by-game. 'We know we have a good record at home and that is
the reason why we are high in the table. We feel very confident. At Upton
Park it is really hard for the opponent to beat us.' West Ham are just three
points off the Champions League places ahead of Arsenal's visit and it marks
the start of a crucial week that also sees an FA Cup sixth-round replay with
Manchester United and a visit to Premier League leaders Leicester City. They
beat the Gunners 2-0 at the Emirates on the opening day and are now hoping
to complete their first double over their London rivals in nine seasons.
Bilic said: 'It was a major surprise as we hadn't beaten them for a long
time, especially away. 'We have shown throughout the season it wasn't a
shocking result as we have done it against a number of teams who are
favourites against us, home and away. 'We have had our ups and downs since
the first game - more ups than downs - and now we are talking about
confidence; we are a confident team, there is a still a long way to go.
'There is a big fight and it is very narrow, looking above us, and below us
the teams are queuing.'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Merson picks a winner between West Ham and Arsenal
Date: 8th April 2016 at 6:30 am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
foreverwestham.co.uk
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has stated that he feels Arsenal will have too
much for West Ham this weekend and pick up a vital victory at the Boleyn
Ground. The Hammers face their London rivals at home and need a victory to
keep pressure on the Manchester clubs in the race for a top-four finish. The
Gunners are still in the title race but need points and quick if they are to
reel in runaway leaders Leicester City. It is fair to say that the loser of
the game will have received a significant blow in their respective ambitions
and as such everything is on the line this weekend. Despite West Ham being
in strong form, especially at home, Merson has backed his former club
Arsenal to get a critical away win against Slaven Bilic's talented side.
"Both teams need to win. It's a good game really because a draw is no good
to either of them," he told Sky Sports. "If Arsenal think they are going to
win the league then they need to win this and a victory is as important to
West Ham if they are to get in the top four. "This is a hard one to call
because West Ham are doing really well, but no one is better than Arsenal
when playing without pressure." Merson went on to state that Arsenal will
win 2-1, which will act as motivation to the home side this weekend to prove
him wrong.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wenger's comments about West Ham sure to annoy Arsenal fans
Date: 8th April 2016 at 6:00 am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
foreverwestham.co.uk
Arsene Wenger has stated that he has considered signing Dimitri Payet for
Arsenal on a number of occasions in the past, but opted against landing the
Frenchman before he moved to West Ham.
The former Marseille playmaker has been in inspired form this season,
leading the Hammers to a top-four push and arguably representing the best
summer signing of the entire Premier League.
As such, the 29-year-old is being linked with a move to a host of top
European clubs and is set to star for France at Euro 2016. Wenger has
admitted that he could have made a move for Payet when he was still playing
in Ligue 1, but opted against the decision. "He was a top talent, always,
but had periods of being up and down," Sky Sports quote him as saying. "I've
looked at him many times. I've known him for a long time. He played at
Saint-Etienne and we watched him many times. "I think he has all the
attributes to be a top player, which he is, but he's 29-years-old already.
He's matured a lot and come back into the national team, which shows he was
more consistent." Arsenal fans will surely be frustrated with Wenger's
comments, as having a player of Payet's quality in the Gunners ranks this
season would surely have boosted the North London club's chances of winning
the title for the first time since 2004.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Gold talks about selling Payet to Arsenal
Date: 8th April 2016 at 5:30 am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
foreeverwestham.co.uk
West Ham chairman David Gold has taken a firm stance on selling the club's
players and has reiterated on social media that he will not sell Dimitri
Payet to Arsenal. The Hammers are on the brink of an exciting new era, with
a progressive season seer to be followed by a move to the Olympic Stadium
this summer. Ahead of 2016-17, Slaven Bilic's men are expected to be busy in
the transfer market and look to propel themselves into the top four
reckoning on a perennial basis. Holding onto key playmaker Dimitri Payet
will be one of the London club's priorities this summer, with a host of
leading European clubs said to be circling around the France international.
However, Gold has answered a Hammers fans who quizzed him about the
potential for selling the 29-year-old to Arsenal and remains defiant that
the former Marseille man will stay with the club. West Ham are still in the
running for a top four berth this season and face Arsenal this weekend at
home.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in discussions over signing Chelsea star
Date: 8th April 2016 at 5:00 am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
foreeverwestham.co.uk
Chelsea striker Alexandre Pato wants to stay in the Premier League next
season and his representatives have opened talks with West Ham and Tottenham
over a possible transfer, The Sun claim.
The Brazil international is on loan at Stamford Bridge currently, but with
the outgoing champions expected to overhaul their playing squad this summer,
the former AC Milan man is unlikely to be handed a permanent switch to West
London. However, Pato is reportedly enjoying life in England and is eager to
find a Premier League club to continue his journey in the United Kingdom.
His agent Kia Joorabchian was the man to bring Carlos Tevez and Javier
Mascherano to Upton Park and is supposedly in talks with the Hammers once
more. Pato in his pomp was regarded as one of the most feared attackers in
the world game, but his stock has dropped slightly over recent times due to
injuries and dips in form.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Bilic compares Payet's free-kicks to Beckham as he outlines fear
factor
DIMITRI PAYET is on course to become one of the Premier League's best
free-kick takers, according to Slaven Bilic.
By DARREN WITCOOP
PUBLISHED: 00:02, Fri, Apr 8, 2016 | UPDATED: 00:10, Fri, Apr 8, 2016
Express.co.uk
Dimitri Payet is West Ham's top scorer in the Premier League this term with
nine goals. The West Ham playmaker's five free-kicks in 2016 has earned him
a reputation as a dead-ball specialist. And Bilic expects tomorrow's
opponents Arsenal to tread carefully. "You can't say that anyone was better
than David Beckham than taking free-kicks," he said. "But then again you can
say the same thing about Dimitri this season. In the space of 10 minutes we
can name five or six great ones. Teams will be worried about conceding
free-kicks."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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