From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Romanian football journalist Emanuel Rosu gives the lowdown on Liga I
champions Astra Giurgiu...
Astra Giurgiu v West Ham United again! What is your reaction to the Europa
League draw?
"For Astra, it's like reaching a final. The current state of Romanian
football is so bad, that these kind of games make us think of what real
football smells like.
"The main talk over here is about insolvency and bankruptcy – a lot of teams
have disappeared or got relegated because of their immense financial
problems.
"Our results on the European stage are average at most, so an opponent like
West Ham couldn't have come in a better moment. It's going to be Astra's
final of the season. They are no strangers to the financial problems, so
it's going to be Astra's breath of fresh, quality, air."
How are West Ham thought of in Romania? We have played Poli Timisoara,
Steaua Bucharest and Astra in European competition, while Ilie Dumitrescu,
Florin Raducioiu and Razvan Rat have all played for the Hammers, so are
Romanians aware of the Club?
"The Premier League has millions of fans over here. West Ham has a rather
special relationship with Romania for all the reasons you've mentioned. The
fans haven't forgotten the two games against Steaua [when the Romanians
prevailed in the 1999 UEFA Cup second round] and regard them as a reference
when it comes to wonderful European evenings!
"Even though none of the three Romanian internationals produced an impact in
east London, they always spoke highly of the club, its fans and culture.
"You can even spot West Ham shirts every now and then at the games played in
Liga I. The English expats also had a contribution. With so many having West
Ham as their favourite club, West Ham's games get good attendances in the
Romanian bars as well."
Astra won 4-3 on aggregate last season and went on to win the Romanian
title. Did victory over West Ham inspire their domestic success?
"Definitely! That was the moment when they realised they were on for
something big. The enthusiasm which followed that victory was absolutely
huge.
"Astra lived from that energy boost for many months! Literally! The club had
problems, they suffered in many ways, but managed to stick together and
those two games always served as the perfect example for their inner force.
"Although West Ham didn't field its best players last year, it was still a
win over a very important Premier League club. The two games against West
Ham were the season's highlight at Astra without any doubt."
With Manchester City facing Steaua Bucharest, are Romanian football fans
excited about their battles with English teams this month?
"'Excited' is a modest word to use in this context. Let's just say that the
tickets for Steaua Bucharest's home UEFA Champions League qualifier with
Manchester City sold out in less than 24 hours after being made available
online, so Steaua was thrilled to welcome English visitors.
"Astra is facing some rather disturbing times at the moment but West Ham's
name served as a healer for many of its wounds. The two games between Astra
and West Ham are a highlight in the club's European CV, so the name of its
opponent attracted interest even for the neutrals.
"Also, there's the Payet effect. After the amazing goal he scored against
Romania at the Euros, Dimitri surely made people stand up and clap even if
they weren't in the mood to. The goal was just too good!"
Last season's match-winner Constantin Budescu appears to be on the verge of
returning on loan from Chinese football. If he is playing, would that give
Astra a big boost?
"His situation was complicated for a long time, he hasn't played much in
China, so his current level is an enigma for everybody. He says he is fit
and ready to go, but the reality is sometimes more difficult to handle than
it seems at first glance.
"For Astra's level, Budescu is class and they will like for him to show that
as soon as possible. How soon? It's up to him."
Last season, Astra won! Can they win again?
"Judging by their current form, I'd say it's impossible. Judging by the big
problems the club as a whole is going through, I'd see myself forced to
repeat: impossible.
"Astra missed their coach, Marius Sumudica, at the end of last season due to
suspension, and will miss some key players against West Ham.
"More important than anything are the passion and the togetherness that saw
them through a year ago. If they can remember the feeling and make it
possible again, I'd say they can put up a fight. But judging on today's key
details, I'd stick with 'impossible' when asked if they can beat West Ham."
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Five Talking Points - Astra Giurgiu
WHUFC.com
All the major topics for discussion ahead of Thursday's UEFA Europa League
tie in southern Romania...
Revenge…
Ever since the draw was made, West Ham United's return visit to Astra
Giurgiu has been touted as a chance to gain 'revenge' for defeat by the same
opposition, in the same competition, a year ago.
Revenge is a strong word, and the Hammers will surely be concentrated only
on reaching the UEFA Europa League group stage, regardless of the identity
of the opposition.
Astra may have won the Romanian title last season, but there has been a
large turnover of players – including the departure of star man Constantin
Budescu – and coach Marius Sumudica is currently serving a two-month
suspension.
Europa League v Premier League
As Slaven Bilic said in his pre-match press conference, the question is
asked every year – 'Why do you want to stay in the Europa League if it is
going to have an effect on your Premier League form?'
Bilic insists that, injury crises aside, he has a squad big and strong
enough to cope with both competitions, and that he sees European football as
an important step forward in the Club's development and growth.
He is right. What point is there in working hard all season to finish in the
European places, if you are then going to treat continental competition as a
distraction?
On balance, West Ham's Europa League participation is good for the Club,
good for the players and good for the supporters.
Darren's chance to shine
Slaven also mentioned in his pre-Astra briefing that, while Adrian remains
his No1 goalkeeper, Darren Randolph is also an outstanding stopper and will
play in the knockout competitions 'at least'.
So, does this open the door for the softly-spoken Irishman to make a real
play to dislodge his equally amiable Spanish squad-mate from between the
sticks?
Randolph has yet to let West Ham down when he has played, and on Thursday he
will have yet another opportunity to show his manager what he can do.
The loyal Claret and Blue Army
Anyone walking through the historic centre of Bucharest on Thursday could
not have failed to notice the large Claret and Blue-clad group of supporters
enjoying a beer – or a dozen – in the Romanian sunshine.
Around 400 have made the journey to Romania and will cheer their heroes on
from a corner of the Stadion Marius Anastasovici.
The players hugely appreciate that level of loyalty so, should West Ham
progress to the group stage, why not follow the Hammers into Europe next
time around?
The right-back debate
It has become THE hot topic on social media in recent days – Michail Antonio
and the right-back position.
Antonio himself grew up and developed his game as a powerful, direct,
attacking winger or forward, but manager Slaven Bilic clearly spotted the
attributes of a top-level full-back in his No30.
Whatever the future holds, Antonio has speed, strength and the ability to
tackle and head the ball with aplomb – all traits that suit the full-back
position. Bilic has shown time and again that he has tactical acumen and the
ability to judge his players' attributes, so who are we to doubt him in this
instance?
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The case for the defence
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th August 2016
By: Lakepalmer
After a summer of much anticipation and excitement, West Ham's early foray
into the 2016/2017 season has provided everybody with a harsh reality check.
A lacklustre and staccato performance at Chelsea was followed by the news
that our recording signing Andre Ayew would be out for up to four months.
'Typical West Ham' the entire fan base said in unison as David Gold tweeted
the news but to add further insult to this injury, we find out Payet and
Feghouli are also struggling.
With having to cope with the extra Europa league fixtures, the disruption
and pressure of the stadium move, other injuries to Lanzini and Cresswell
and the ongoing Sakho saga these are shaping up as tough times for Bilic. A
season of unrivalled hope and expectation potentially having the wheels fall
off by the end of September will be hard for the fans to take. It was
supposed to be different this time.
With that as the backdrop the last thing Bilic would have wanted was player
unrest. A manager who prides himself on harmony, unity and team spirit would
be taking the training ground spat with Antonio personally.
Its been brewing though, 'Antonio is not a right back' has become a
campaign. Social media rife with memes and tweets with our sponsors even in
on the act. With every mistake Antonio makes momentum gathers and the stick
with which to beat Bilic gets bigger and bigger. Along with the vitriol to
Bilic there has also been the outpouring of grief and sympathy for Antonio,
it's as if Antonio is Cecil the friendly harmless Lion and Bilic is the evil
Walter Palmer.
But really, is that it that clear cut? Has Bilic just become pig-headed like
Sam Allardyce before him and basically cupping his ear at us? Antonio might
be never a decent right back, in fact the intelligence and attitude he has
shown so far in trying to adopt the position heavily suggests he won't be.
But that isn't that where the problem is ? in his intelligence and attitude
rather Bilic just going a bit mental on us.
Looking a little deeper than a bungling hack on Azpilcueta, why would Bilic
want Antonio as a right back ? The system Bilic prefers (4-2-3-1) depends
hugely on the full backs providing width and getting forward. The three
behind the striker, for example are Payet, Lanzini and Ayew. Payet and Ayew
start wide but look to drift inside to create an overload in the final
third.
The best exponents of this are Barca, although they set up slightly
differently with a front three with Suarez, Messi and Neymar drifting
infield, joined by Iniesta and Rakitic. They keep possession so well that
the full backs Alba and Alves bomb on and provide the width.
The full backs getting forward stretch the pitch to allow more space for
Payet or Suarez to cut inside. But if play breaks down those fullbacks have
to be supercharged to get back. So the system demands dynamic attacking wing
play and a huge engine with pace to get up and down the line.
See where this going? Maybe there is some madness in Bilic's thinking. I
can't think of more dynamic get up and down player in the league than
Antonio (unless you think of the Leicester boys' performance in Thailand of
course).
So not only does Antonio like to hit the byline and be very direct in his
attacking play, he also isn't that wide player (ala Payet or Ayew or even
Feghouli) who is good at drifting inside, receiving and retaining possession
in tight areas. So does he suit Bilic's ideal attacker in the 4-2-3-1 ? No.
He is not technically good enough. He has probably been brought up playing a
4-4-2, as old school British winger. So not only does he tick the boxes for
a Slav fullback he also doesn't tick all the boxes for a Slav winger.
Antonio also has a great eye for goal. Big asset. On the other side, for all
Creswell's good play he isn't the best finisher, but imagine if we could
recreate the situations that got Creswell in on goal on the right hand side
with Antonio. Wow, what a threat we would have? How often does Marcelo get
forward into shooting positions for Real Madrid? Surely it has to mean that
our attacking threat is 100 per cent better with Antonio on the overlap
bearing down on goal than a Byram or a Davide Santon or a Joey O'Brien. It
would add another dimension to our play.
So all good so far, Antonio seems ready made for the job apart from the fact
he has no experience, and no positional sense. After trialling things last
season with mixed results, Bilic obviously believed he could coach those
missing elements into Antonio. So you have a coach of serious experience, a
defender himself at the top level who believes in you and says can you make
you the best right back in the league. You have to buy in to that, don't
you?
All the attributes needed to make that position a success that can't be
coached he has, all he has to do is believe and knuckle down. It's not as he
has never had to defend as right winger, it's a pretty important part of the
job. Playing in the forward three doesn't mean he is bereft of defensive
responsibilities and he will never have to make a tackle or be facing his
own goal. The defending that he has been pretty woeful at isn't another
sport, is it?
And if he wants proof it can be done, then take look at this list of names
of current players who played wing or midfield and converted to full back,
Abate ,Alaba, Evra, Piszczek (he was a striker), Gibbs, Seamus Coleman - and
even the great Phillip Lahm.
Personally I think Antonio has made some bad errors at fullback but not
because he is playing full back. They are just bad errors. Being out of form
is hard work for a player but it seems Antonio has blamed his mistakes on
playing full back. He has therefore absolved himself of responsibility.
Instead of instigating a training ground bust-up, he should have apologised
to the team for the mistake at Chelsea (double mistake even).
The fact he can't be trusted to make the right decision whilst defending
just makes him a liability, not a winger.
Decision-making during the game is obviously massive, he choose the wrong
option and seems to be hiding behind the outpouring of grief. Rather than
wishing the situation was better, he should be wishing HE was better. I can
totally understand Slav's frustration, the potential upside of Antonio as
our Dani Alves is huge, he now has to re-jig his planning and has also found
out a lot about the player in terms of how he has dealt with this tricky
period.
Its seems that Antonio either doesn't want to get to grips with the
defending aspect of right back (attitude) or he doesn't have the capability
(intelligence). Either way, it's disappointing and he is going to have to
turn some serious match-winning performances from right midfield to regain
Bilic's trust.
I get the feeling Antonio's days are numbered.
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Daggers confirm stadium share agreement
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's development squad will be playing their home games at
Dagenham & Redbridge's Chigwell Construction Stadium this season. The
agreement was confirmed this morning by the National League side who will be
hosting West Ham's entire home programme at Victoria Road bar three
fixtures, the mandatory figure which has to be played at the hosting club's
main ground (in this case, the Olympic Stadium). "We would like to thank
West Ham United for choosing our venue for this competition," read a
statement on daggers.co.uk this lunchtime. "Part of the agreement includes a
pre-season friendly at home to a West Ham United XI ahead of the 2017/18
campaign."
The matches to be hosted at Victoria Road are as follows. All kick off at
7pm:
August: 22nd - Newcastle United
September: 9th - Wolverhampton Wanderers; 26th - Brighton & Hove Albion
October: 31st - West Bromwich Albion
November: 21st - Blackburn Rovers
December: 12th - Swansea City
January: 9th - Norwich City; 27th - Aston Villa
February: 20th - Fulham
March: 6th - Stoke City
April: 10th - Middlesbrough
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Match Day Officials v West Ham (21/8/16)
The Premier League have now announced the Match Day officials that will take
charge of the game against West Ham United this Sunday. AFC Bournemouth
travel to West Ham United on Sunday August 21 for the game at the London
Stadium and the match carries a 4pm kick off for screening live on Sky
Sports.
Referee: Craig Pawson
Linesmen: H Lennard and I Hussin
Fourth Official: R East
Match Day referee Pawson has officiated two games in 2016/17 with a return
of eight yellow cards and zero red cards. He took in 39 matches last season
and in those games, across all competitions and football divisions, he
handed out a total of 117 yellow cards and three red cards. He was most card
happy in the match between Slovan Liberec and Braga in the Europa League on
September 17 with a total of seven yellows being shown. He showed seven
yellows in three games after that.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet picks up small knock amid Hammers injury crisis
DIMITRI PAYET reportedly picked up a small knock against Chelsea on Monday -
but the West Ham star is not set for a spell on the sidelines.
By JACK STAPLEHURST
PUBLISHED: 05:23, Thu, Aug 18, 2016 | UPDATED: 05:44, Thu, Aug 18, 2016
Express.co.uk
The playmaker was given a 23-minute cameo from the bench at Stamford Bridge
in the Hammers' 2-1 defeat. Having endured a long summer at Euro 2016 with
France, Payet only returned to full training at West Ham on Monday 8 August.
But his quick inclusion in the team that lost to Chelsea saw him pick up a
slight blow, leading to his exemption from the Hammers' European squad.
According to website The West Ham Way, the club decided not to risk
aggravating any potential injury by leaving him out of the trip to Romania
to face Astra on Thursday night (7.15pm). Slaven Bilic's side is already
stretched heading into their Europa League play-off tie. But Payet is
expected to only miss the first leg with the aim to still start him against
Bournemouth on Sunday. West Ham play their first ever Premier League game at
their new stadium this weekend and they are set to include the talisman in
their line-up despite the small knock suffered. However, injuries are a huge
concern in east London at the present time with record £20million signing
Andre Ayew adding to their woes. The forward has been ruled out for four
months with a thigh injury, seeing him join Manuel Lanzini, Aaron Cresswell,
Sofiane Feghouli, Diafra Sakho and Havard Nordtveit as the Hammers' current
absentees heading into Thursday's clash.
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Confirmed: West Ham miss out on target as striker signs for Wolfsburg
MARIO GOMEZ has signed for Wolfsburg, marking his return to the Bundesliga
after a three-year absence.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 06:33, Thu, Aug 18, 2016 | UPDATED: 06:41, Thu, Aug 18, 2016
Express.co.uk
The 31-year-old striker left Bayern Munich for Italy's Fiorentina in July
2013, and spent last season on loan at Besiktas where he scored 26 league
goals as he helped the club win the Turkish title. His performances saw him
linked with a move to Premier League club West Ham as they look to bolster
their options in attack going ahead of their Europa League campaign.
The Hammers this week signed Jonathan Calleri on loan for the rest of the
season but have made no secret of their desire to recruit another
high-profile striker. But Gomez, who ruled out a permanent move to the
Turkish champions due to the volatile political situation in the country,
has instead opted for a return to Germany. "We looked at the possibility of
signing Mario Gomez during the winter, so we are all the happier that it has
now worked out," Wolfsburg sporting director Klaus Allofs told the club's
website. "Mario is a striker of international class, who, aside from his
playing qualities, also brings an immense amount of experience to our team.
As an ambitious player, he fits in here perfectly." Gomez, who began his
career at Stuttgart, has scored 138 goals in 236 top-flight appearances in
Germany.
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Team News: Bilic without six West Ham stars for Europa League clash, new
signing in squad
WEST HAM will be without new signing Andre Ayew when they travel to Romania
to face Astra Giurgiu in the first leg of their Europa League qualifying
play-off.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 06:45, Thu, Aug 18, 2016 | UPDATED: 06:53, Thu, Aug 18, 2016
Express.co.uk
The club-record £20million signing, who arrived from Swansea earlier this
month, suffered a thigh injury on his debut against Chelsea on Monday. The
Ghana international joins defender Aaron Cresswell (knee), midfielder Manuel
Lanzini and winger Sofiane Feghouli (both hamstring) on the sidelines. New
left-back Arthur Masuaku is cup-tied and influential playmaker Dimitri Payet
did not travel but striker Jonathan Calleri could be involved following his
loan switch from from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado.
West Ham provisional squad: Adrian, Randolph, Byram, Reid, Ogbonna, Collins,
Oxford, Page, Antonio, Noble, Nordtveit, Kouyate, Obiang, Tore, Valencia,
Quina, Fletcher, Carroll, Calleri.
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West Ham's David Gold shares good news
HITC
Shane Callaghan
The West Ham United co-owner posted something on Twitter recently. West Ham
United co-chairman David Gold has revealed on Twitter that Manuel Lanzini is
ahead of schedule in his comeback from a knee injury, and confirmed new
signing Jonathan Calleri is fit enough to travel to Romania. The Irons jet
off to the city of Giurgiu for a tricky first-leg Europa League playoff with
Astra on Thursday. Argentine striker Calleri joined West Ham on a
season-long loan from Deportivo Maldonado this week, after representing his
country in the Rio Olympics in recent weeks. His participation in Brazil
raised questions over whether he would make the trip to Romania, but Gold
confirmed he is in contention for his debut tonight. One man who will not
travel is Calleri's fellow Argentine Lanzini, who was one of West Ham's
stand-out performers during his maiden season in East London last term. The
midfielder is still out with a knee injury but Gold revealed on Twitter that
he is ahead of schedule in his recovery from that problem. West Ham lost 2-1
at Chelsea in their Premier League opener on Monday night. Slaven Bilic's
side will aim to bounce back domestically when they host Bournemouth at the
Olympic Stadium on Sunday evening.
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David Sullivan piles pressure on new West Ham signing with bold prediction
HITC
Damien Lucas
Co-owner David Sullivan has piled the pressure on West Ham United's new
signing Jonathan Calleri with a bold prediction. The Hammers have struggled
in their much-publicised bid to land a marquee striker signing this summer
befitting the new 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium they now call home. Slaven
Bilic was forced to pay over the odds for striker Andre Ayew in a club
record £20.5 million deal last week and in typical West Ham fashion he was
promptly injure half an hour into his debut in the season-opening defeat to
Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. While the club were not putting a timescale on
the "significant" thigh injury last night, Sullivan's teenage son Jack
confirmed on Twitter Ayew will be out for four months. The blow has been
softened by the arrival of young Argentinian forward Jonathan Calleri this
week, though. He will give Bilic a different option in attack but co-owner
Sullivan has heaped pressure on the new loan signing straight away by
revealing his rather lofty expectations for the former Boca Juniors star on
the club's official website. "He's a top player and was the leading
goalscorer this season in the Copa Libertadores, the South American version
of the Champions League," Sullivan told whufc.com. "He is the immediate back
up for Argentina who are the number one rated team in the world. "We expect
him to be one of our top goalscorers this season."
Calleri could be thrown straight in at the deep end too having flown out to
Romania with the rest of the Hammers squad to face champions Astra Giurgiu
in the Europa League on Thursday night. Astra knocked Bilic's side out of
the competition at the third round stage last year. And the stakes are ever
higher this time around with the victors over two-legged fourth qualifying
play-off making the Europa League group stage proper. That is seen as
crucial to West Ham's new existence as anchor tenants of one of the largest
stadiums in Europe and Calleri could well find himself in the thick of the
action with Bilic seriously lacking options at moment.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 18
Daily WHUFC News - 18th August 2016
Thanks to Dave Witts who kept us all informed in my absence :) Cheers Dave,
much appreciated!
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Preview - Astra Giurgiu
WHUFC.com
West Ham face Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu in UEFA Europa League
play-off round
Hammers were defeated 4-3 on aggregate by Astra in the same competition last
season
Slaven Bilic says West Ham will take Thursday's tie very seriously
When and where?
Astra Giurgiu v West Ham United
UEFA Europa League play-off round first leg
Thursday 18 August 2016, 9.15pm CEST (7.15pm BST)
Stadionul Marin Anastasovici
What's the story?
West Ham United continue their quest for a maiden UEFA Europa League crown
by taking on Romanian Liga I champions Astra Giurgiu on Thursday evening.
The Hammers take on Astra in the play-off round with a place in the
lucrative group stage at stake, having been defeated by the same opposition
in the third qualifying round last season.
This time round, Slaven Bilic is planning for things to be very different,
having brought a strong yet injury-depleted squad to Eastern Europe.
The two clubs reached this stage by different paths, with the Hammers having
finished seventh in the Premier League last season before overcoming NK
Domzale of Slovenia 4-2 in the third qualifying round.
Astra, meanwhile, reached the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, only to be
knocked out at the first stage by Danish side FC Copenhagen. That meant they
dropped into the Europa League qualifiers.
Team news
West Ham are without a few first-team players in Romania, both through
injury and also due to considerations being made ahead of Sunday's Premier
League home opener with AFC Bournemouth at London Stadium.
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini (both knee) are on the mend, while Andre
Ayew misses out with the thigh injury he suffered at Chelsea on Monday
evening. Dimitri Payet and Havard Nordtveit have been left in London to rest
ahead of Sunday's game, while left-back Arthur Masuaku is cup-tied after
playing for Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers earlier this
summer.
Astra will be without their coach, Marius Sumudica, who has been suspended
for two months due to off-field issues.
Any links between the two?
Well, as mentioned above, the two clubs faced one another in last season's
UEFA Europa League.
The Hammers raced into a two-goal lead at the Boleyn Ground through goals
from South American pair Enner Valencia and Mauro Zarate, only for a James
Collins red card to spark a late comeback that saw the first leg end 2-2.
In the return leg in Giurgiu, Manuel Lanzini fired West Ham ahead on his
debut after just two minutes, only for Romania international Constantin
Budescu to net either side of half-time to send Astra through 4-3 on
aggregate.
How do I get to the game?
Supporters travelling to Romania will likely be based in Bucharest. From the
city, it is a 90-minute drive or train ride from the capital city's Nord
station to Giurgiu. Approximately 400 West Ham fans are expected to attend
the match.
The game will be played at Astra's Stadionul Marin Anastasovici, which has
an 8,500-capacity and is located in the southern Romanian city of Giurgiu,
near to the border with Bulgaria.
Fans should note that tickets will NOT be on sale on matchday in Giurgiu, so
they are strongly advised not to travel to the game without one.
For full advice issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), click
here.
Where can I watch the game?
Thursday night's match broadcast live in the UK by BT Sport 2 from 7pm BST.
You can also follow the action on our digital channels with live audio
commentary, in-game stats, Social Media updates and more. Head to whufc.com
for the Live Match Centre, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and
Snapchat.
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Slaven Speaks - Astra Giurgiu
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic says West Ham United want to reach the UEFA Europa League group
stage
Hammers face Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu in third qualifying round on
Thursday
West Ham finished seventh in Premier League last season to qualify
Slaven Bilic says West Ham United will be doing everything they can to reach
the UEFA Europa League group stage. Speaking ahead of the Hammers' third
qualifying round first-leg tie with Astra Giurgiu in Romania, the manager
dismissed suggestions that the Club should dismiss the competition and
concentrate only on the Premier League. Instead, he spoke enthusiastically
about instilling a mentality within the Club whereby playing three
competitive games every week becomes the norm.
Slaven, can we start with team news please? How seriously are you taking
this tie?
"We have a training session on Wednesday evening and then we will pick the
team on Thursday, but we will definitely be picking the strongest team we
can, because that's why we came here. "I said openly before the Domzale game
and at the start of the pre-season that we want to get into the Europa
League group stage. This is the play-off round and it's very important to
win for West Ham United.
But will qualification for the group stage – and another six Thursday night
matches – have an effect on your Premier League campaign?
"Look, we want to qualify. We had a good season last year and are one of the
few clubs from the Premier League who are privileged to be competing in
Europe. "We have got a chance. We are two games away from the group stage
and the Club, the fans and the players – individually and as a team – and
the staff want to participate in it. "I saw that it affects your chances in
the Premier League but, despite that, we're going to try it and it's good
for everyone. It's good for the players to play in different countries and
against different teams, they become better players as well."
How do you counteract any negative effect Europe might have on your Premier
League form?
"You can have a very big squad, but on paper we are prepared for that. We
have a big squad, but we have some injuries from pre-season and they'll miss
the game on Thursday, but they'll come back and hopefully we will have
qualified. "This is a football team and you can make a few changes of
course, but we have to adjust to this. Man City played Saturday and then
Tuesday and Monday and Thursday is the same. You have enough time and maybe
their players are more used to midweek football, and we didn't, but we want
it. We want to be part of that group. Everybody wants it and that's why we
came here. "Although it's not normal for West Ham to play Monday, Thursday
and Sunday, we want to. Why do we talk about qualifying for Europe the whole
season if, when you qualify, the first question you ask is 'Why did you want
to qualify?'"
What do you know about Astra Giurgiu? Did you know they have lost a lot of
players and their coach is suspended at present?
"I know they have many of the same players as last year [when Astra won 4-3
on aggregate in the third qualifying round] and I know they have many
internationals from different countries. "They sold a few players, that's
also true, but they have a team who have played together for some time. They
gave FC Copenhagen a good game at home in the UEFA Champions League
qualifiers, drawing 1-1, and for me what is crucial is that they're the
current champions of Romania. "I know the Romanian league, being from
Croatia, and I know how good Romanian teams can be. OK, maybe they sold a
few players, but I'm expecting a tough game."
Does the fact Darren Randolph is sat next to you suggest he will start on
Thursday? And also, how is Adrian's leg after Diego Costa's challenge at
Chelsea on Monday evening?
"I said openly last season when we won 3-0 at Anfield that the only
department that I don't have to talk about are 'keepers because we have
great goalkeepers and also Rafa Spiegel who is a young and exciting No3.
"There will be competition. Adrian is the No1 but Randy will get his chance
because he deserves it. I'm not doing it because I want to please everyone,
but because he showed last season that he can do the job so he's going to
play in Europe and in cup ties in England minimum." "Adrian's leg is OK, but
since the game he didn't train. He had a recovery session on Tuesday, but he
seems OK."
You have brought Jonathan Calleri with you to Romania. What can you tell us
about him?
"He has travelled and is with us for a couple of reasons. First off all, it
was a deal that was done a while ago and we knew about it. "He has been with
Argentina at the Olympics and we were very happy when he decided to come to
us. He's a really good striker and we need that kind of a player. "He came
and trained on Tuesday in the morning, but the other players weren't out on
the pitch. He trained with the guys this evening and he might be out there
tomorrow. "He is in form, played in three games at the Olympics and scored,
so he is definitely in good shape and doesn't need pre-season and all that.
The only question-mark is jet-lag, so we'll see on Thursday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SAG set Bournemouth capacity at 57,000
WHUFC.com
All Season Ticket Holders, Club London Members and Claret Members who have
already been allocated tickets in the ballot will be accommodated within the
57,000 capacity.
At this time the Club is unable to release further tickets in the ballot to
Claret Members, as had originally been planned, despite unprecedented demand
for tickets.
Following a meeting of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Group, Newham
Council has formally agreed to increase the working capacity of the London
Stadium to 57,000 (from 54,000) ahead of the Club's first home Premier
League match against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday 21 August.
All West Ham United Season Ticket Holders, Club London Members and Claret
Members who have already been allocated tickets in the ballot for the game
will be able to take their seats for the historic match, alongside AFC
Bournemouth's official allocation of away supporters.
Both of the opening two fixtures were hailed a resounding success by
supporters and media commentators alike but the LSSAG has identified that
standing in an all-seater stadium is dangerous and contrary to ground
regulations.
The Club appreciates that many supporters across the country do stand at
football matches, but London Stadium is licensed as an all-seater Stadium
and persistent standing has posed a significant problem to many supporters,
particularly young and disabled ticket holders.
LSSAG will continue to monitor the situation very closely and has noted that
the Club has issued messages to supporters to remain seated throughout the
game, and acknowledge that the Club will want to increase the capacity to
60,000 as soon as possible.
Vice Chairman Baroness Brady CBE said: "As a Board we must follow the
guidance as set out by LSSAG to ensure more supporters are able to attend
matches at our stunning new home.
"While an increased capacity of 57,000 is naturally a significant step
forward for all concerned, we absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000
capacity in the very near future.
"We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and will work closely
with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to reach a 60,000
capacity in the coming weeks.
"The LSSAG have identified that standing in an all-seater stadium is
dangerous and that we must continue to communicate this to our supporters."
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold added: "We understand the
traditions of football and that many supporters like to stand, but the
reality is that the license is for all-seating. Therefore, we urge our
supporters to watch the game from their seats."
The Club will continue to work with LS185, London Borough of Newham, the
LSSAG and all relevant authorities and partners to operate at the intended
60,000 capacity as soon as possible.
Will I be able to sit in my regular Season Ticket seat for Bournemouth?
Yes.
What will the capacity be for the Europa League game versus Astra Giurgiu?
The capacity is now set at 57,000.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Calleri completes Hammers move
WHUFC.com
Jonathan Calleri receives international clearance to complete season-long
loan move
Twenty-two-year-old arrives from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
Argentina Olympic striker has netted 39 goals in 90 appearances over last
two seasons
West Ham United are delighted to announce that exciting Argentine striker
Jonathan Calleri has completed his season-long loan move to east London. The
22-year-old has received international clearance and joined his new
teammates in training at Rush Green on Tuesday. Calleri, who has arrived
from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado after prolific spells with Argentine
giants Boca Juniors and Brazilian side Sao Paulo, is in Slaven Bilic's squad
for Thursday's UEFA Europa League play-off round tie with Astra Giurgiu and
cannot wait to get started.
"I am very happy to have signed for West Ham," said the new No28, who
finished as leading scorer in the 2015 Copa Libertadores – South America's
equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – for Sao Paulo. "This represents a
fantastic new challenge for me and I am really looking forward to it. "The
Premier League is the best league in the world and so I am delighted to have
this opportunity to play in such a prestigious league."
Calleri arrives ready to make an immediate impact after playing and scoring
for his country at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. After netting 39 goals in 90
appearances over the last two seasons, the forward is hungry to hit the net
on a regular basis in Claret and Blue. While it may take some overseas stars
time to settle in English football, Calleri is willing to make all the
sacrifices necessary to ensure he is a success on this side of the Atlantic.
"It is a new chapter for me and so I am excited to get started here and to
fit in as quickly as possible, so that I can be as useful as possible to my
new teammates and manager," he insisted. "These are exciting times for me
personally and I am motivated to adapt my game to this new environment. "I
am a player who always tries to work as hard as I can and to do my best for
the team."
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his career with Primera Division side
All Boys, making his senior debut at the age of 19 in August 2013. The young
forward's ability and promise attracted the attention of Argentina's biggest
clubs and it was no surprise when legendary South American coach Carlos
Bianchi took him to Boca Juniors in July 2014. There, Calleri netted his
first goal on his second start at Estudiantes before celebrating his 20th
birthday with the winner against local rivals Racing Club. The busy South
American fixture list saw Calleri amass an impressive 53 appearances, 21
goals and eleven assists in a successful 18-month spell with Boca that saw
him win the Primera Division and Copa Argentina double in late 2015. The
exciting youngster joined Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado in January 2016
and was soon loaned to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo. Calleri spent six months
in southern Brazil, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances, including an
impressive nine in 12 Copa Libertadores ties as Sao Paulo reached the
semi-finals. He will become the sixth Argentine to play for West Ham after
Lionel Scaloni, Javier Mascherano, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Zarate and current
star Manuel Lanzini.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joint-Chairman - Calleri is a top player
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan believes new signing Jonathan
Calleri has the potential to become the Club's top goalscorer this season.
Calleri has joined the east London Club on a season-long loan and has been
granted international clearance. The Argentine forward is available to face
Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League on Thursday night and Mr Sullivan is
expecting big things from the talented forward. Mr Sullivan said: "He's a
top player and was the leading goalscorer this season in the Copa
Libertadores, the South American version of the Champions League. "He is the
immediate back up for Argentina who are the number one rated team in the
world. "He showed his quality at the Olympic Games for Argentina this summer
and will be another great addition to the squad. "We have a great track
record of signing players from Argentina with Carlos Tevez and Manuel
Lanzini becoming big players at West Ham United. It would be great if
Jonathan could follow in their footsteps. "We expect him to be one of our
top goalscorers this season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonathan Calleri - Ten Fast Facts
WHUFC.com
Find out more about West Ham United's exciting new Argentine striker
Jonathan Calleri…
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his senior career with the All Boys
club which also developed former West Ham favourite Carlos Tevez in the
1990s.
Calleri appeared as a teenager at the Viareggio Cup competition in Tuscany,
Italy, in February 2013, scoring in a win over Italian club Sampdoria.
A first-team debut arrived in August 2013, when the 19-year-old Calleri
appeared as a substitute in the Copa Argentina tie against Estudiantes de La
Plata.
A Primera Division debut arrived the following month, when Calleri played
for the final 16 minutes at Argentinos on 7 September 2013.
Calleri's maiden senior goal arrived in the Primera Division draw at Arsenal
de Sarandi on 1 November 2013 – two months after his 20th birthday.
The forward joined Boca Juniors in July 2014, where he managed an impressive
21 goals and eleven goals in 53 appearances in all competitions in his debut
season.
The 2014/15 campaign also brought silverware in the shape of Primera
Division and Copa Argentina winner's medals.
Calleri later spent the 2015 Argentine season playing alongside Tevez at
Boca Juniors. The pair combined to score 24 goals between them in all
competitions.
Calleri finished as the top scorer in the 2016 Copa Libertadores with nine
goals – one more than fellow countrymen Marco Ruben of Rosario Central and
Ismael Sosa of Mexican club UNAM Pumas.
The 22-year-old's form saw him included – initially alongside Manuel Lanzini
– in Argentina's Olympic squad for Rio 2016, where he scored the winner in
the group-stage victory over Algeria.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Masuaku - This is a big week for the Club
WHUFC.com
Masuaku was impressive during his Premier League debut for the Hammers
The French defender hopes his side can get straight back on the winning
trail
Masuaku is relishing the chance to play in England
West Ham United defender Arthur Masuaku is confident his side can bounce
straight following the defeat against Chelsea and knows the importance of
winning the next two games. Masuaku had a mixed night of emotions following
his debut for the Club at Stamford Bridge. The French defender was thrilled
to play his first Premier League game, but was upset that his side failed to
take anything from the game after Diego Costa scored a dramatic last minute
winner. Masuaku has stressed the importance of getting back straight back on
the winning trail and feels the players will have a point to prove when they
face Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League on Thursday and Bournemouth at home
on Sunday. Masuaku said: "All the players were disappointed because we
conceded the goal in the last minute. I thought was the game was in our
hands but unfortunately we let in the second goal. We just have to keep
working hard together as a team. "It was a great strike from Ginge to get us
back into the game and I thought Dimitri came on and changed the game
because he has great quality and for me he is a world class player. "We saw
what he can do as he crossed the ball in for the goal. It was unfortunate
that we could not hold but we have to move on now. "I really enjoyed my
Premier League debut as it was always my target to play in England since I
was a youngster. "The Premier League is very fast and for me it was tough
physically as I am not 100 per cent yet. I just want to keep going, work
hard and hopefully show my best form. "This is a big week for the Club and
we have two important games in the Europa League and then the first home
game against Bournemouth. I hope we are going to win the next two games."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Andy Dillon is an established football writer for The Sun and has been
covering Chelsea and West Ham for a number of years. Dillon feels it shows
how far the Hammers have come that they are disappointed to have suffered a
narrow defeat at Stamford Bridge....
To concede with a minute to go must have been very hard to take for Slaven
Bilic and the West Ham players. It was even more heartbreaking considering
who scored the goal following all the controversy over Diego Costa's
challenge on Adrian and whether he should have still been on the pitch.
Everything seemed to go against the Hammers and it was a bad goal to concede
considering Costa was outside the box. But I have to say that West Ham
didn't deserve to win the game and the performance was nothing like last
year when the Hammers came away with a 2-2 draw. The big difference this
time around was that Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini were missing from the
team. Not having either player in the starting line-up was a big blow and
West Ham look a different team when they are not playing. You can also argue
that Andy Carroll didn't get any kind of service and looked totally isolated
in the Hammers attack. There is obviously a big debate over Michail Antonio
playing at right back. I believe his big strength is charging down the right
wing but Slaven obviously feels he can do a good job playing at right back.
You could see he was devastated to give away the penalty and he was then
taken off so it was not a great night for him. On the positive side, it was
Chelsea's first game under new manager Antonio Conte so the whole place had
a lift from the start and the fans were optimistic. It shows how far West
Ham have come that despite a bad performance, they are deeply unhappy to be
beaten in the final minute. We have still got a couple of exciting players
to come back into the team which will make them a lot stronger. This is now
a big week coming up for Slaven and his players and he will be hoping that
they can bounce back straight away and get a victory against Astra Giurgiu
in the Europa League on Thursday. The Europa League can be a distraction and
it can drain a team, but for a club like West Ham, it is important they are
playing in Europe. The key is how Slaven manages it. It is a great
experience for the players and a victory in Romania will set them up nicely
for the first ever game at the new Stadium against Bournemouth on Sunday
which is another big game. For any team moving into a new ground, the key is
to get points on the board quickly and they will want revenge for what
happened last season.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble looking for Romanian response
WHUFC.com
Ahead of the Hammers' Europa League Play Off first leg away at Romanian side
Astra Girgiu, captain Mark Noble said he and teammates cannot wait for the
opportunity to bounce back from Monday's defeat. The Hammers were edged out
2-1 at Stamford Bridge and now have to refocus quickly in time to face
opponents Astra tomorrow evening. Looking ahead to the tie, Noble said: "The
games are coming thick and fast, had we got a point at Chelsea it would have
been fantastic. "Now we have a huge week ahead, first away in Romania and
the very first Premier League game at the new stadium."
Following Thursday's European excursion, the Hammers play again on Sunday –
their third in seven days – at home to AFC Bournemouth in the first ever
Premier League game at London Stadium.
Noble continued: "The game against Bournemouth is going to be great, the
atmosphere is going to be fantastic. Again, it's another hard game but we
have to pick up points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph - It is down to me to perform
WHUFC.com
Darren Randolph admits he is full of confidence following his performances
at the European Championship Finals during the summer and hopes to play a
major role for West Ham in the Europa League this season. Randolph enjoyed
one of the best moments of his career when he was picked to start in goal
for the Republic of Ireland and played his part in helping them qualify from
the group stage. Despite being beaten by the host nation France in the last
16 of the competition, the Hammers keeper insists he will never forget the
experience. After signing a new four-year deal at the end of July, Randolph
has been told he will be first-choice keeper in the Europa League and is now
looking forward to making his first competitive start against Astra Giurgiu
on Thursday night.
Randolph said: "It didn't feel like I had a break which is good in a way
because I am full of confidence and enjoying my football. I am really
enjoying being part of everything that is happening at West Ham. "It was one
of the best experiences of my career during the summer and I have enjoyed
the last year-and-a-half. I just want it to continue for as long as
possible. "Playing at the Euros against those teams and players can only
help you when you perform at that level and give you confidence. "I had a
good cup run last season and I ended up playing a number of games. If that
happens again this season it is down to me to perform whenever I get the
chance to play. "If we can get into the group stages it will be good for me
and the rest of the players who have worked just as hard. It is a great
experience for us to play in different countries and sample different
atmospheres. It will only benefit the team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andre Ayew update
WHUFC.com
Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke has issued an update
on Andre Ayew, who suffered an injury in Monday's Premier League game at
Chelsea. "Andre Ayew injured his right thigh at Chelsea on Monday and
underwent a scan on Wednesday afternoon," Vandenbroucke told whufc.com. "The
medical team will now assess the results with a leading consultant before
drawing any conclusions. "My first thought and priority is with the player
and his physical and mental wellbeing. He has suffered a significant injury
and it is imperative that we do not rush to conclusions and we receive the
correct diagnosis by consulting top specialists. "At this time, it is too
early to put a timeframe on his potential return date but Andre is facing a
significant rehabilitation period. "The best thing we can do as a Club is to
support Andre through this difficult period. We will keep you updated
throughout this process and I am sure he will be come back stronger than
ever."
Everyone at West Ham United wishes Andre a speedy recovery and return to
action.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Fan blogger Joe Difford looks back at Monday's game at Chelsea…
This time last year, West Ham were faced with the task of going to Emirates
Stadium on the opening day of the season, but we stunned the division by
comfortably taking all three points.
This season we were dealt a tough opening game again, having to travel to
Stamford Bridge to face a Chelsea side who were expected to bounce back
after a train wreck of a campaign last year.
As luck would have it, we were already missing Aaron Cresswell, Manuel
Lanzini and Sofiane Feghouli to injury.
The hosts began as expected, keeping possession and settling fast, getting
Eden Hazard on the ball and helping him grow in confidence after a
surprisingly poor season last year. The left winger reverted back to his old
self however, causing early problems for Michail Antonio, again used as a
right back.
Antonio Conte's side were in control throughout, and Oscar saw a penalty
appeal correctly waved away after beating Winston Reid and falling to the
ground from the slightest of brushes from the Kiwi's arm.
The first half ended with fans worrying about new record signing Andre Ayew,
as the former Swansea man pulled up with what looked like a thigh injury and
was forced to come off.
It was a spot kick just after the restart that gave the Blues a
much-deserved opener, as Antonio attempted to run the ball out of defence,
was dispossessed, and bundled over Cesar Azpilicueta. Hazard buried the
resulting penalty, and it looked as if Chelsea would leave with a narrow
victory.
For all their possession however, Conte's men struggled to break down the
Hammers, and James Collins put in yet another quality performance alongside
the confident and composed Reid. New signing Arthur Masuaku had an
impressive debut, looking assured with the ball at his feet, and he will
only improve with time.
The biggest talking point came midway through the second half, as Adrian
attempted to trick Diego Costa with some quick footwork, before the Chelsea
striker dived in off the floor with a slide tackle that was worthy of a red
card. His studs were planted into the middle of the Hammers' keeper's shin,
but the referee failed to even show Costa a yellow card, which incidentally
would have been his second of the game, after he was booked in the first
half for arguing with the match official.
11 vs 11, the game continued, and James Collins managed to claw back an
equaliser in the 77th minute, following some great play from substitute
Dimitri Payet. The Frenchman's corner was whipped in and cleared only as far
as Collins, who smashed home into the corner, sending the travelling fans
into a frenzy.
A draw would have been a great result considering the disappointing
performance and wealth of injuries in our squad, but Costa crushed Hammers'
hearts in the final minute.
Chelsea new boy Michy Batshuayi flicked it on to Costa, who found space and
smashed the ball into the corner, through a box-full of claret and blue
shirts. The result wouldn't have been too hard to take if not for the fact
that the striker was lucky to be on the pitch at this point. He wheeled away
to the fans and leapt over the advertising boards, another bookable offence
in some games.
It might have been a frustrating opening day for Slaven Bilic and Co., but
it is just one of 38 games to come this season, and with a fully fit squad
and some better refereeing decisions, we still have the potential to enjoy a
great season.
For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THU, 18 AUG 2016EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING PLAY-OFFS - 1ST LEG
19:15
Venue: Stadionul Marin Anastasovici
Astra Giurgiu v West Ham United (Thu)
BBC.co.uk
Europa League qualifying play-off first leg
Date: Thursday 18 August
Kick-off: 19:15 BST
How to follow:
Live text commentary on the BBC Sport website; live on BBC Radio London 94.9
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says there is a "big hype" about the club
qualifying for the Europa League. The Hammers come up against Romanian side
Astra Giurgui, the side who beat them at the same stage last season, in the
play-off round on Thursday. "We wanted to get into the Europa League and it
was a reward for last season," said boss Bilic.
Striker Andre Ayew will miss out with a thigh injury so on-loan Jonathan
Calleri could make his debut. Bilic confirmed goalkeeper Darren Randolph
will start in place of Adrian, but midfielder Manuel Lanzini - who scored
against Astra last season - is still a week away from a return to training.
The London side entered the Europa League at the third qualifying round
after finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, and have so far
beaten Slovenia's NK Domzale. Last season, after a 2-2 draw in the first leg
at Upton Park, West Ham suffered a 2-1 defeat in Giurgiu to exit the
competition. Bilic added: "Everyone at the club wants to participate. It is
a great experience for the players to participate in different countries.
"We have a big job to do against the Romanian champions. I know there are
many players from last year and a lot of international players. "For me they
played a good game against Copenhagen at home and I know how good the teams
from Romania can be."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andre Ayew: West Ham's new signing out with 'significant' injury
BBC.co.uk
West Ham's Andre Ayew faces a "significant rehabilitation period" after
injuring a thigh during Monday's 2-1 loss at Chelsea.
The 26-year-old played only 35 minutes of his league debut for the east
London club before he had to be taken off.
The club confirmed a scan on Wednesday showed the new signing from Swansea
had "a significant injury".
They added it was too early to put a timeframe on a potential return date
for the Ghana forward.
Stijn Vandenbroucke, the head of West Ham's medical and sports science team,
said it was "imperative that we do not rush to conclusions and we receive
the correct diagnosis by consulting top specialists".
He added: "My first thought and priority is with the player and his physical
and mental wellbeing.
"The best thing we can do as a club is to support Andre through this
difficult period."
Ayew joined the Hammers from Swansea for £20.5m last week.
He scored 12 league goals for the Swans last season having signed for them
in June 2015.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sponsors apologise for Antonio tweet
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's principal sponsors Betway have issued an apology after a
tweet criticising Slaven Bilic's selection of Michail Antonio at right back
was published on the company's timeline. Following last night's 2-1 defeat
at Stamford Bridge a post on the Betway account slammed Bilic for playing
the right-winger in defence. "Antonio has been an accident waiting to happen
in defence," it read. "West Ham fans will hope that's the end of the
experiment." But having received much criticism from supporters since,
Betway backtracked and issued an apology on their timeline this lunchtime,
as you can see below: Despite the furore caused by the offending tweet, a
number of supporters have expressed support for the message it carried.
"Betway have apologised, although I'm not sure why," wrote one supporter on
the KUMB Forum this morning, "as it's a fact many of us concur with."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Calleri set for Europa debut
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Jonathan Calleri is available for selection when West Ham face Astra Giurgiu
in the Europa League play-offs on Thursday. The 22-year-old striker
officially joined the club yesterday after weeks of waiting for a work
permit to be issued. And the good news is that he is in line for selection
when West Ham face the Romanians at the Stadionul Marin Anastasovici in 48
hours time.
David Sullivan, who was heavily involved in the deal believes that Slaven
Bilic's latest squad addition has what it takes to be a major success in the
Premier League. "He's a top player and was the leading goalscorer this
season in the Copa Libertadores," he told West Ham's website. "He showed his
quality at the Olympic Games for Argentina this summer and will be another
great addition to the squad. "We have a great track record of signing
players from Argentina with Carlos Tevez and Manuel Lanzini becoming big
players at West Ham United. It would be great if Jonathan could follow in
their footsteps."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Capacity raised for Bournemouth clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are set to break their attendance record for the second time in a
fortnight after it was confirmed that the Olympic Stadium's capacity will be
raised to 57,000 for the visit of Bournemouth this weekend. With the club's
previous longstanding record having been surpassed by the recent visits of
Domzale and Juventus, for which 54,000 were in attendance, an extra 3,000
are set to attend this weekend's meeting with the Cherries. "Following a
meeting of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Group, Newham Council has
formally agreed to increase the working capacity of the London Stadium to
57,000," read a statement published on whufc.com. "All West Ham United
season ticket holders, Club London members and Claret Members who have
already been allocated tickets in the ballot for the game will be able to
take their seats alongside Bournemouth's official allocation of away
supporters."
With stadium management no longer in the club's hands, the capacity has been
set by the London Stadium Safety Advisory Group, who will "continue to
monitor the situation very closely."
West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady added: "While an increased capacity of
57,000 is naturally a significant step forward for all concerned, we
absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000 capacity in the very near
future. "We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and will work
closely with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to reach a
60,000 capacity in the coming weeks."
The LSSAG are understood to have refused to allow the full 60,000 allocation
at present due to persistent standing at the Olympic Stadium by some
supporters.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The woes of Michail Antonio
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Tom Kilbey
Now the dust has settled on our opening day defeat and while the performance
raised a number of questions (such as, is Gokhan Tore, Bilic's number one
target this season, actually a fat man in disguise, or, who is responsible
for placing the 'record signing' curse on us?) but undoubtedly the number
one talking point was Michail Antonio, and his apparent fall out with Slaven
Bilic.
Before I go on, let me put this in context. Anyone who knows me will be
completely sick of the extent to which I wax lyrical about the pacey winger.
My 'second team' is Sheffield Wednesday simply because I used to enjoy
watching them play to see Antonio terrorising Championshp defenders, and I
was so excited when he was linked with us that I promised to buy a shirt
with his name on if he scored. Never have I been so glad to part with £60.
So in light of Antonio forced to play out of position, you may be thinking
you know exactly where I am heading with this. But you might be wrong.
First, I must say that there has been a whole lot of rubbish being spoken on
Twitter over the last few days. Someone even blamed Bilic playing Antonio at
right back for Ayew's injury. Apparently, if we had a 'proper' right back,
then Ayew wouldn't have needed to track back and hence wouldn't have got
injured. I suspect that even Byram himself, who would have been up against
Hazard all evening, would not have fancied himself one on one with the the
Belgian. This is just not a useful argument to make.
So instead, I will look at the situation from each of the individual's
points of view. In my mind, it is clear that both Slaven and Michail are
discontent with the current situation, and I don't agree that Slaven has
some sort of childish vendetta, or even a Allardyce size bout of
stubbornness. Instead I think there are sensible reasons for the sitation
that we are watching play out.
Michail's point of view
Michail Antonio is one of the most exciting players in England. He's hugely
ambitious too - after turning down the opportunity to play for Jamaica, it's
clear he has set his sights on the England team.
He brings something entirely different from what the national side currently
has, and based on his performances last season, was surely in line for a
call up to fill a position that no one in the country has nailed down for
years. Back at West Ham, Antonio has had a difficult start to the season,
being played out of position and making mistakes. One could argue that Bilic
didn't even fancy him from the outset, and there were signs of frustration
even early last season when he was consistently being overlooked for an
opportunity to perform.
When Michail did get his opportunity, it wasn't long before he was forced
into playing at full back and did so admirably. His work rate was enormous,
and he continued to be a threat going forward despite taking on more
defensive responsibilities. His attitude and work rate were second to none,
and he was maturely doing what was required for the team. This season, Bilic
had the opportunity to deal with the lack of full backs, and instead has
watched Bilic sign several wingers that have clearly jumped the queue.
Michail can even point to the lack of goals we apparently have in our team
to make a case for playing further up the pitch. He scored a number of
hugely important goals last season, amassing 8 goals - bettered only by
Carroll and Payet. Equally, when he does not play, our quality from wide
areas is rarely there. Take into account that Payet and Cresswell, surely
our other two best crossers of the ball, are currently injured, Michail's
frustration is completely understandable. In light of all of this, it would
be hard to begrudge him if he handed in a transfer request in January if
nothing changes.
Slaven's point of view
What I plan to say here essentially assumes three things. A quick twitter
search appears to suggest that some disagree with these points, but for
argument's sake let's agree that:
1) Slaven is not an idiot.
2) Slaven will not have taken pleasure in the fact that Michail looked
devastated after being substituted on Monday night.
3) Slaven will surely know that all else being equal, Michail can do more
damage further up the pitch, than in defence.
What people fail to remember is that Michail played at defence a few times
last season with success. He did the basics right, and was solid
defensively. While we would all prefer he was playing higher up the park,
once Jenkinson returned to Arsenal, it was generally accepted that he was
performing fairly well. This was during a period in the season when we were
being heavily tipped for a Top 4 finish - we were winning matches. In
essence, there was no massive issue with Antonio in the right back position.
What we've seen this season is something slightly different. In the away leg
against Domzale, it's difficult to argue that Antonio was doing anything
other than protesting against playing in defence by, well, not playing
there. The holes in our defence that evening were ridiculous, and he and
would not have put a performance like that in last season - just take a look
at some of his performances at right back last season. I promise you'll find
that for the most part, he was a dependable and solid right back.
Now take a look at his performance at Stamford Bridge. After hanging on to
the clean sheet in the first half, Slaven would undoubtedly have told his
players to settle down, make it difficult for Chelsea for play, and most
importantly to avoid making any mistakes. Imagine his frustration, then,
when barely before his words had stopped echoing around the changing room,
Michail Antonio did the absolute opposite.
You do not have to be a natural defender to know what Antonio did was
brainless. He could easily have found himself in that position playing as a
winger, I'm sorry, but playing in a somewhat unfamiliar position does not
suddenly make moments of stupidity excusable. He has to accept a huge amount
of blame for his performances against Domzale and Chelsea, and this explains
why Bilic was so angry when he was substituted.
So what's next?
Antonio has to get his head down. I absolutely believe that he has a future
at the club. Slaven has flirted with the idea of playing three at the back
in the past, and Antonio is a fantastic asset to have when this is the
chosen tactic. Not to mention our injury record, along with the fact that
Tore looks entirely unfit and nowhere near good enough, means that Antonio
could soon find himself our main winger once again.
I think he needs to return to his attitude he had last season where he did
what was required for the team. If he does this, he will win back the
respect of his manager, and put him in a good position for selection. A lack
of application and motivation when called upon is not the answer, and he is
surely professional enough to know that. In turn and in time, I have faith
that Bilic will surely will reward Michail with the opportunities further up
the pitch he dearly craves.
Let me know what you think - contact me at @tom29whu.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet excused Euro duty
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Dimitri Payet will not be joining the rest of the West Ham's first team
squad in Bucharest having been excused Europa League duty. The French
international, who was a losing finalist in the summer's Euro 16 tournament
has played just 25 minutes for the Hammers since returning to England having
taken a late pre-season break. And KUMB has learned that he has not
travelled to Romania for the Europa League play-off round first leg tie with
Astra Giurgiu, who knocked West Ham out of the tournament last season.
Also absent from the touring party is new signing Arthur Masuaku, who made
his debut at Stamford Bridge on Monday night. Additionally Havard Nodtveit,
Sofiane Feghouli and the injured Andre Ayew have all failed to travel. That
means the likes of Marcus Browne, Ashley Fletcher and new signing Jonathan
Calleri (pictured above) - all of whom flew to Bucharest this morning with
the first team squad - have been granted the opportunity to impress instead.
West Ham face Astra in the first leg of the play-off this Thursday evening,
with the return leg scheduled for the Olympic Stadium seven days later
(Thursday, 25 August).
Team to face Astra Giurgiu (from): Darren Randolph, Adrian, Raphael Speigel;
Reece Burke, Sam Byram, James Collins, Angelo Ogbonna, Reece Oxford, Winston
Reid; Michail Antonio, Cheikhou Kouyate, Mark Noble, Pedro Obiang, Gokhan
Tore; Marcus Browne, Jonathan Calleri, Andy Carroll, Ashley Fletcher, Enner
Valencia.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic wants extended Europa campaign
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 17/08/16 7:02pm
SSN
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic is taking the Europa League seriously this
season despite admitting it could affect their Premier League form. The
Hammers face a two-legged tie against Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu, with
the away leg on Thursday evening, as they bid to reach the group stages for
the first time. In the past some clubs have taken the competition lightly -
including West Ham last season when they qualified through the Fair Play
League and were knocked out by Astra in the qualifying round. Bilic fielded
a team of youngsters for that clash but has brought a full squad, including
the likes of Dimitri Payet, Mark Noble and Andy Carroll, for the rematch.
"We will put out a strong team," he said. "We want to get to the group
stages. These are two very important games for West Ham United. "We want to
qualify. It's a reward for a good season last year and only a few clubs from
the Premier League are privileged to play in Europe. We are two games from
the group stages and we want to participate. "All the talk all season is
'will you qualify for Europe', and then you do and the next question is 'why
did you qualify?' Well, we have to adjust. "We know it affects your chances
in the next Premier League game but we want to try it. It's good for
everyone, it's good for the players to play games against teams from
different countries, they become better players."
Astra beat the Hammers 2-1 in Giurgiu last season but are in some disarray
this time around having lost a number of key players and their coach Marius
Sumudica, who is suspended for betting on matches. The Romanians were
initially in the Champions League but were knocked out in the qualifiers by
FC Copenhagen. Bilic added: "They have many internationals, although they
sold a few players. They have a team who have played together for some time.
"Look, they played a good game against Copenhagen at home, drew 1-1, and
what is crucial is that they are current champions of Romania. I'm Croatian,
so I know how good teams from Romania can be. I'm expecting a tough game."
West Ham will be without £20m striker Andre Ayew, who is awaiting the result
of a scan on the thigh injury he suffered at Chelsea on Saturday, with Bilic
fearing he will be out for 'weeks, rather than days'. Aaron Cresswell,
Manuel Lanzini and Sofiane Feghouli are also injured and new left-back
Arthur Masuaku is cup-tied.
But Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri has travelled with the squad and
could be involved following his loan switch from from Uruguayan club
Deportivo Maldonado.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United's record signing Andre Ayew facing 'four months out'
By Chris MacRae
Last Updated: 17/08/16 8:37pm
SSN
West Ham United's record signing Andre Ayew requires surgery on his thigh
injury and could be out of action for up to four months. Ayew was forced to
come off in the first half of his competitive debut, the Sky Live 2-1 defeat
at Chelsea on Monday Night Football. West Ham boss Slaven Bilic travelled to
Romania for the club's latest Europa League qualifier on Wednesday without
their record signing saying he expected the Ghana international would be out
"for a few weeks".
But Jack Sullivan, son of West ham joint-chairman David, said on social
media: "We are devastated that Ayew will be out for about 4 month (sic). He
needs a surgery."
In a statement on their website, the club's head of medical and sports
science Stijn Vandenbroucke admitted the player faced "a significant
rehabilitation period" out of the game. He said: "Andre Ayew injured his
right thigh at Chelsea on Monday and underwent a scan on Wednesday
afternoon. "The medical team will now assess the results with a leading
consultant before drawing any conclusions. "My first thought and priority is
with the player and his physical and mental wellbeing. He has suffered a
significant injury and it is imperative that we do not rush to conclusions
and we receive the correct diagnosis by consulting top specialists. "At this
time, it is too early to put a time-frame on his potential return date but
Andre is facing a significant rehabilitation period. "The best thing we can
do as a Club is to support Andre through this difficult period. We will keep
you updated throughout this process and I am sure he will be come back
stronger than ever."
West Ham, who finished seventh last season, host their first league game -
and the Sky Sports cameras - at the London stadium when they entertain
Bournemouth on Sunday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham rocked by Andre Ayew injury blow as striker ruled out for four
months
19:14, 17 AUG 2016 UPDATED 20:42, 17 AUG 2016
BY TOM HOPKINSON
The former Swansea frontman limped off with a thigh problem just half an
hour into his debut following his £20.5m switch to east London
The Mirror
West Ham have been rocked by the news that record signing Andre Ayew needs
surgery on the thigh injury he sustained against Chelsea on Monday and could
be out until the new year. The £20.5million summer signing from Swansea
lasted just 35 minutes into his Hammers debut before pulling up sharply
after a short sprint. Manager Slaven Bilic said yesterday that he feared the
forward would be out for up to three weeks. But an hour later the results of
a scan confirmed the injury was far worse than had first been expected. The
Hammers' head of medical Stijn Vandenbroucke said: "Andre underwent a scan
and the medical team will now assess the results with a leading consultant
before drawing any conclusions. "He has suffered a significant injury and it
is imperative that we do not rush to conclusions and we receive the correct
diagnosis by consulting top specialists. "At this time, it is too early to
put a timeframe on his potential return date but Andre is facing a
significant rehabilitation period." Ayew had stayed behind in England to
undergo the scan while the rest of the team jetted out to Romania for the
first leg of their Europa League qualifier against Astra Giurgiu on Thursday
night.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham must learn to cope with demands of Europe if they want to join
England's elite, warns Slaven Bilic
18:38, 17 AUG 2016 UPDATED 18:39, 17 AUG 2016
BY TOM HOPKINSON
The Hammers will qualify for the Europa League group stage if they beat
Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu over two legs, starting in Giurgiu on
Thursday
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has told his West Ham stars they must learn to cope with the
demands of Europe like the rest of the Premier League's big boys. The
Hammers will qualify for the Europa League group stage if they beat Romanian
champions Astra Giurgiu over two legs, starting in Giurgiu on Thursday. And
Bilic, who fears he will be without record signing Andre Ayew for up to
three weeks after he sustained a thigh injury against Chelsea, wants his
players to soak up the experience and get used to the gruelling
Thursday-Sunday schedule which goes with it. Bilic said: "I have said a
number of times it affects your chances in the next game in the Premier
League but despite that we want to try. "It's good for everyone, it's good
for the players, if they play in different countries against different teams
they become better players as well. "It is not very common for West Ham to
play on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, but why talk about qualifying for
Europe all season, with a big hype about it, and then whoever qualifies, the
next question is, 'Why did you qualify?' "So we have to adjust. Like
Manchester City played Saturday and Tuesday, we played Monday and Thursday,
it's the same. "And okay, from Tuesday they have enough time till Saturday
when they play, while from Thursday we don't have a lot of time till Sunday.
"And I know that Manchester City players, for the whole of their careers
they get used to playing in midweek in the Champions League for Valencia,
Manchester City, Lazio, whoever. "We didn't, but we want to give it a go."
West Ham lost to Astra, whose coach Marius Sumudica is banned from all
football activity for two months because of a betting offence, in the Europa
League qualifying phase last season. Bilic added: "We came here knowing we
have a very, very tough team to face. "They are champions of Romania, a team
we respect a lot, and we have a big job to do."
Dimitri Payet has stayed in London to work on his fitness while Adrian, who
has not trained since Diego Costa caught him with a late challenge on
Monday, has travelled but will be replaced by Darren Randolph. Argentinian
Jonathan Calleri, who completed his season-long loan to West Ham from
Deportivo Maldonado earlier this week, is likely to feature. Bilic said:
"He's a very good striker and we need that kind of player. "He is in form,
he played in the Olympics, so he is definitely in a good shape. "He doesn't
need a pre-season. The only question is a bit of jet-lag, it was a long
flight, but that was four days ago."
LIKELY LINE-UPS
ASTRA: Lung, Sapunaru, Geraldo, Fabricio, Junior Morais, Lovin, Takayuki,
Teixeira, Ionita, Boudjemaa, Niculae.
WEST HAM: Randolph, Burke, Reid, Collins, Byram, Obiang, Kouyate, Antonio,
Noble, Valencia, Carroll.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham capacity at London stadium increased to 57,000
By Chris MacRae
Last Updated: 16/08/16 9:17pm
SSN
West Ham have had their safety certificate approved for increased capacity
of up to 57,000 people for their first Premier League game at their new
home. The club had sought approval for a 60,000 capacity at the London
stadium for the Sky Live game against Bournemouth and are still hoping to
achieve that in the coming weeks but Newham Council has agreed an initial
increase of 3,000 for this Sunday's match. A Safety Advisory Group
identified a problem with persistent standing in an all-seater stadium
during the Europa League qualifier against NK Domzale. Vice Chairman
Baroness Brady CBE said: "As a Board we must follow the guidance as set out
by the London stadium Safety Advisory Group to ensure more supporters are
able to attend matches at our stunning new home. "While an increased
capacity of 57,000 is naturally a significant step forward for all
concerned, we absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000 capacity in the
very near future. "We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and
will work closely with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to
reach a 60,000 capacity in the coming weeks. "The LSSAG have identified that
standing in an all-seater stadium is dangerous and that we must continue to
communicate this to our supporters."
The increased capacity means only Old Trafford (75,635) and the Emirates
(60,432) can host larger crowds in the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's sponsor apologise to Michail Antonio over tweet
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 16/08/16 2:24pm
SSN
West Ham's official shirt sponsors, Betway, have apologised for criticising
Michail Antonio on social media on Monday night. Antonio gave away a penalty
as the Hammers opened their 2016/17 Premier League campaign with a 2-1
defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday Night Football. Eden Hazard
converted from 12-yards and, though James Collins restored parity with less
than 15 minutes to go, Diego Costa netted the home side's winner in the 89th
minute. Antonio, whose usual position is as a right winger, has been
utilised as a right-back by manager Slaven Bilic since the end of last
season, despite a certain section of the club's support calling for him to
be restored to an attacking position. Following his error last night, Betway
tweeted from their official Twitter account: "Antonio has been an accident
waiting to happen in defence… West Ham fans will hope that's the end of the
experiment."
Sky sources understand West Ham and Betway held a conference call on Tuesday
to discuss the tweet. Betway have told Sky Sports News HQ they have a team
of passionate writers who provide impartial opinion across all sports, but
acknowledge this particular tweet was inappropriate in light of the
company's relationship with West Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian says he is lucky Diego Costa tackle in Chelsea win over West Ham did
not cause serious injury
By James Dale
Last Updated: 16/08/16 6:35pm
SSN
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian has said he is lucky not to have been seriously
injured after he was fouled by Diego Costa in the defeat to Chelsea on
Monday Night Football. Costa had already been booked when he fouled Adrian
in the second half and although referee Anthony Taylor awarded a free-kick,
he did not produce a second yellow card. The Chelsea forward then went on to
score an 89th-minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory for his side in Antonio
Conte's first Premier League match. Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville felt
Diego Costa should have been sent off against West Ham. Adrian has now
responded to the incident by posting an image depicting Costa's high tackle
with the hashtag '#fairplay', and expressing his relief at not sustaining
more serious damage.
The West Ham goalkeeper said on Twitter: "Disappointed about last night!!
Thank God my leg is okay after that, could have been much…" Costa, 27,
scored just 12 Premier League goals last season after scoring 20 in his
first season and with Chelsea signing forward Michy Batshuayi for £33m in
the summer, it was thought Costa's first-team place may be at risk.
However, the Spanish forward started Conte's first league game in charge and
his goal could help him keep his place in the side for their trip to Watford
on Saturday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonathan Calleri ready to fight after joining West Ham
Last Updated: 16/08/16 10:11pm
SSN
West Ham have completed the signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri on
a season-long loan. Slaven Bilic revealed last week a deal was almost done
to bring in the 22-year-old from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado. And
Calleri has completed the paperwork in time to join the squad for West Ham's
Europa League qualifier against Romania's Astra Giurgiu on Thursday.
"I am very happy to have signed for West Ham," he told the club website.
"This represents a fantastic new challenge for me and I am really looking
forward to it. "The Premier League is the best league in the world and so I
am delighted to have this opportunity to play in such a prestigious league."
Calleri's previous clubs include Boca Juniors and Sao Paulo, and he was part
of the Argentina squad beaten in the first round at the Rio Olympics this
month. "These are exciting times for me personally and I am motivated to
adapt my game to this new environment," he said. "I am a player who always
tries to work as hard as I can and to do my best for the team.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diego Costa great escape leaves West Ham skipper calling for video replays
so refs get big decisions right
22:30, 16 AUG 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Chelsea star was already on a booking when he got away with a studs-up
challenge on keeper Adrian — before then crushing Mark Noble and co by
scoring the winner
The Mirror
Diego Costa's red card row is further evidence that referees need more video
technology help, according to West Ham skipper Mark Noble. Chelsea star
Costa had a big escape when he avoided a second yellow card against the
Hammers on Monday. Already on a booking for dissent, striker Costa lunged in
on keeper Adrian and caught his fellow Spaniard halfway up his right shin
with a studs-first challenge. Referee Anthony Taylor decided not to caution
the 27-year-old again, after initially looking like he was about to.
Ben Foster drops the ball behind him but the goal line technology shows the
ball wasn't fully over the line...as has already happened with the system
which takes the guesswork out of goals And, to rub salt into West Ham's
wounds, Costa popped up in the 89th minute to score the winner and deny
Slaven Bilic's side a point. TV replays of the incident didn't reflect well
on either Costa or Taylor and midfielder Noble said: "It probably takes
about five seconds for someone upstairs to look at a video. And that works
both ways then. "I never blame the refs, because I know how tough it is, how
fast the play goes, how difficult it is to keep up with the play, but
someone has got to give us some help.
"We have put goal-line technology in - we have done that and does anyone
argue over whether the ball was over the line any more? No. Did we used to?
Yes. "Simple, isn't it?
"I've always been against this sort of stuff but sometimes it cost us last
year. Big decisions. They do even themselves out but it hurts, doesn't it?
"I knew it was a bad tackle. He didn't get anywhere near the ball — if I
made that tackle in the middle of the pitch am I getting a yellow card? "I
said to Anthony in the game, and I think he is a really good ref, 'What's
the difference between that sort of tackle, which could really injure
someone, and a yellow card for a slight pull-back on a shirt?' You tell me
the difference? "They won't get everything right [because] they are human.
But those decisions really hurt teams now with what is at stake and the
amount of stuff that goes on."
West Ham have to dust themselves down quickly as they travel to Romanians
Astra Giurgiu in the opening leg of a Europa League qualifying play-off on
Thursday, before hosting Bournemouth on Sunday in their first Premier League
game at the Olympic Stadium. They are likely to be without £20.5m record
signing Andre Ayew. Ghanaian forward Ayew, 26, is facing a month out after
being forced off with a thigh injury in the first half at Chelsea.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham captain Mark Noble wants video replays to be introduced after
controversial defeat at Chelsea
Diego Costa's dramatic winner secured win for Chelsea over West Ham
Costa had already been booked before he fouled goalkeeper Adrian
Mark Noble suggested the Blues striker deserved a second yellow card
The Hammers skipper has called on video replays to be introduced
By MATT MALTBY FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:52, 17 August 2016 | UPDATED: 12:52, 17 August 2016
West Ham captain Mark Noble has called on video replays to be introduced in
the Premier League following his side's incident-packed defeat at Chelsea on
Monday. The Hammers left Stamford Bridge without a point after Diego Costa,
who was fortunate to be on the pitch, netted a dramatic last-gasp winner.
Costa was booked in the first-half and escaped without another booking in
the second period when he caught West Ham keeper Adrian with a reckless
challenge. The lunge, which incensed the Spanish shot-stopper, has led Noble
to suggest referees need help - and he believes video replays are the best
option. Speaking to The Sun, he said: 'I knew it was a bad tackle. He didn't
get anywhere near the ball. If I made that tackle in the middle of the pitch
am I getting a yellow? 'We have put goal-line technology in, we've done that
and does anyone argue over whether the ball was over any more? No. Did we
used to? Yes. 'Simple isn't it? It probably takes about five seconds for
someone upstairs to look at a video. 'I've always been against technology
stuff but it cost us last year too. Big decisions. Maybe they do even
themselves out but it hurts at the time doesn't it?' Sportsmail columnist
Jamie Carragher was in no doubt that Costa was 'lucky' to avoid a red card
in the Premier League opener. Former Liverpool and England defender
Carragher, speaking in his role as a Sky Sports pundit, insisted match
official Anthony Taylor got the decision wrong.
'This is a straight red card, that challenge there, it's typical Costa, it
happens too often.'That there, it comes down the shin, over the ankle, it
won't be the first time, it won't be the last time, he shouldn't be on the
pitch.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM REGISTER SQUAD FOR EUROPA LEAGUE PLAY-OFF
MICHAEL OLIVER @ReadWestHam
West Ham have registered their squad for their Europa League play-off round
fixtures against Astra Giurgiu. The Hammers successfully navigated the third
qualifying round earlier this month with a 4-2 aggregate victory over
Slovenian side NK Domzale. Romanian outfit Astra Giurgiu meanwhile drop down
into the Europa League play-offs after losing their Champions League third
qualifying round tie with Danish side FC Copenhagen 4-1 on aggregate,
setting up a tie with the Hammers.
Slaven Bilic and Co. will be out for revenge against Astra Giurgiu on
Thursday night, the same team that knocked the Hammers out of the Europa
League qualifiers last season 4-3 on aggregate. West Ham will field a much
strong side one year on from their 2-1 away defeat in Romania last season.
Here's the team that started last season against the same opposition:
Randolph; Knoyle, Jenkinson, Henry, Page; Poyet, Nolan, Cullen; Maiga, Lee,
Lanzini.
As for the squad registered to play Astra Giurgiu, latest signing Jonathan
Calleri has now completed his move to West Ham and received international
clearance to play, he goes straight into the squad for Thursday's game.
Club-record signing Andre Ayew is also included, but the Ghanaian is not
expected to feature after suffering a thigh injury in Monday's Premier
League curtain-raiser against Chelsea. Dimitri Payet, now having returned
from his post-Euro 2016 break, is also back in the fold to play on Thursday
night.
Defenders Lewis Page and Josh Pask, and midfielder Josh Cullen have both
been removed from the squad having completed loan moves to Gillingham and
Bradford respectively, while Aaron Cresswell and Diafra Sakho have both also
been excluded as neither are fit to play. Arthur Masuaku is ineligible to
play having featured for Olympiakos in their Champions League third
qualifying round defeat to Hapoel Beer Sheva earlier this month.
Here is West Ham's registered squad in full:
Goalkeepers:
1) Darren Randolph
13) Adrian
34) Raphael Spiegel
46) Sam Howes*
Defenders:
2) Winston Reid
8) Cheikhou Kouyate
19) James Collins
21) Angelo Ogbonna
22) Sam Byram
32) Reece Burke*
35) Reece Oxford*
51) Mason Barrett*
56) Korrey Henry*
63) Vashon Neufville*
64) Ben Wells*
66) Alex Pike*
70) Tunji Akinola*
Midfielders:
4) Havard Nordtveit
7) Sofiane Feghouli
11) Enner Valencia
14) Pedro Obiang
16) Mark Noble
17) Gökhan Töre
27) Dimitri Payet
41) Declan Rice*
52) Marcus Browne*
53) Matt Carter*
54) Conor Coventry*
55) Grady Diangana*
58) Noha Sylvestre*
60) Moses Makasi*
61) Malyk Hamilton*
69) Anthony Scully*
71) Alfie Lewis*
Forwards:
9) Andy Carroll
20) Andre Ayew
24) Ashley Fletcher
28) Jonathan Calleri
30) Michail Antonio
36) Domingos Quina
40) Djair Parfitt-Williams*
42) Martin Samuelsen
57) Jahmal Hector-Ingram*
62) Benjamin Johnson*
67) Joe Powell*
72) Rosaire Mbule*
* Player B List (Players under the age of 21 that have completed at least
two years at the club – do not need to be registered in the A List)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham starlet Reece Oxford keen to revive talks over new contract as
Manchester United wait in the wings
Reece Oxford has two years remaining on his West Ham contract
The Hammers have been in no rush to hold new contract talks
The 17-year-old defender has been valued at around £15million
Jose Mourinho has been monitoring his situation in recent weeks
By SAM CUNNINGHAM FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:27, 17 August 2016 | UPDATED: 10:35, 17 August 2016
Reece Oxford is keen to return to the negotiating table and thrash out new
terms with only two years remaining on his West Ham contract. Oxford and the
club are still some distance apart in all aspects of the protracted deal and
no further discussions have been forthcoming recently. The 17-year-old has
been valued at around £15million and his representatives feel he deserves a
contract that reflects that, but Sportsmail understands that no deal is
currently on the horizon. Oxford started in West Ham's 3-0 victory against
NK Domzale in their first ever match at the Olympic Stadium and is expected
to feature regularly for manager Slaven Bilic this season. The Croatian
handed Oxford his debut last season and he made 12 appearances in all
competitions. Such was his progress that Jose Mourinho has been monitoring
his situation since taking over at Manchester United and sent scouts to
watch him at Under 19 European Championships playing for England. The
Portuguese has identified him as a potential key player for the future. West
Ham are adamant they do not want to sell the player and Bilic is in need of
a large squad this season as he competes for domestic success and in the
Europa League.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
much appreciated!
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Preview - Astra Giurgiu
WHUFC.com
West Ham face Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu in UEFA Europa League
play-off round
Hammers were defeated 4-3 on aggregate by Astra in the same competition last
season
Slaven Bilic says West Ham will take Thursday's tie very seriously
When and where?
Astra Giurgiu v West Ham United
UEFA Europa League play-off round first leg
Thursday 18 August 2016, 9.15pm CEST (7.15pm BST)
Stadionul Marin Anastasovici
What's the story?
West Ham United continue their quest for a maiden UEFA Europa League crown
by taking on Romanian Liga I champions Astra Giurgiu on Thursday evening.
The Hammers take on Astra in the play-off round with a place in the
lucrative group stage at stake, having been defeated by the same opposition
in the third qualifying round last season.
This time round, Slaven Bilic is planning for things to be very different,
having brought a strong yet injury-depleted squad to Eastern Europe.
The two clubs reached this stage by different paths, with the Hammers having
finished seventh in the Premier League last season before overcoming NK
Domzale of Slovenia 4-2 in the third qualifying round.
Astra, meanwhile, reached the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, only to be
knocked out at the first stage by Danish side FC Copenhagen. That meant they
dropped into the Europa League qualifiers.
Team news
West Ham are without a few first-team players in Romania, both through
injury and also due to considerations being made ahead of Sunday's Premier
League home opener with AFC Bournemouth at London Stadium.
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini (both knee) are on the mend, while Andre
Ayew misses out with the thigh injury he suffered at Chelsea on Monday
evening. Dimitri Payet and Havard Nordtveit have been left in London to rest
ahead of Sunday's game, while left-back Arthur Masuaku is cup-tied after
playing for Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers earlier this
summer.
Astra will be without their coach, Marius Sumudica, who has been suspended
for two months due to off-field issues.
Any links between the two?
Well, as mentioned above, the two clubs faced one another in last season's
UEFA Europa League.
The Hammers raced into a two-goal lead at the Boleyn Ground through goals
from South American pair Enner Valencia and Mauro Zarate, only for a James
Collins red card to spark a late comeback that saw the first leg end 2-2.
In the return leg in Giurgiu, Manuel Lanzini fired West Ham ahead on his
debut after just two minutes, only for Romania international Constantin
Budescu to net either side of half-time to send Astra through 4-3 on
aggregate.
How do I get to the game?
Supporters travelling to Romania will likely be based in Bucharest. From the
city, it is a 90-minute drive or train ride from the capital city's Nord
station to Giurgiu. Approximately 400 West Ham fans are expected to attend
the match.
The game will be played at Astra's Stadionul Marin Anastasovici, which has
an 8,500-capacity and is located in the southern Romanian city of Giurgiu,
near to the border with Bulgaria.
Fans should note that tickets will NOT be on sale on matchday in Giurgiu, so
they are strongly advised not to travel to the game without one.
For full advice issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), click
here.
Where can I watch the game?
Thursday night's match broadcast live in the UK by BT Sport 2 from 7pm BST.
You can also follow the action on our digital channels with live audio
commentary, in-game stats, Social Media updates and more. Head to whufc.com
for the Live Match Centre, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and
Snapchat.
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Slaven Speaks - Astra Giurgiu
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic says West Ham United want to reach the UEFA Europa League group
stage
Hammers face Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu in third qualifying round on
Thursday
West Ham finished seventh in Premier League last season to qualify
Slaven Bilic says West Ham United will be doing everything they can to reach
the UEFA Europa League group stage. Speaking ahead of the Hammers' third
qualifying round first-leg tie with Astra Giurgiu in Romania, the manager
dismissed suggestions that the Club should dismiss the competition and
concentrate only on the Premier League. Instead, he spoke enthusiastically
about instilling a mentality within the Club whereby playing three
competitive games every week becomes the norm.
Slaven, can we start with team news please? How seriously are you taking
this tie?
"We have a training session on Wednesday evening and then we will pick the
team on Thursday, but we will definitely be picking the strongest team we
can, because that's why we came here. "I said openly before the Domzale game
and at the start of the pre-season that we want to get into the Europa
League group stage. This is the play-off round and it's very important to
win for West Ham United.
But will qualification for the group stage – and another six Thursday night
matches – have an effect on your Premier League campaign?
"Look, we want to qualify. We had a good season last year and are one of the
few clubs from the Premier League who are privileged to be competing in
Europe. "We have got a chance. We are two games away from the group stage
and the Club, the fans and the players – individually and as a team – and
the staff want to participate in it. "I saw that it affects your chances in
the Premier League but, despite that, we're going to try it and it's good
for everyone. It's good for the players to play in different countries and
against different teams, they become better players as well."
How do you counteract any negative effect Europe might have on your Premier
League form?
"You can have a very big squad, but on paper we are prepared for that. We
have a big squad, but we have some injuries from pre-season and they'll miss
the game on Thursday, but they'll come back and hopefully we will have
qualified. "This is a football team and you can make a few changes of
course, but we have to adjust to this. Man City played Saturday and then
Tuesday and Monday and Thursday is the same. You have enough time and maybe
their players are more used to midweek football, and we didn't, but we want
it. We want to be part of that group. Everybody wants it and that's why we
came here. "Although it's not normal for West Ham to play Monday, Thursday
and Sunday, we want to. Why do we talk about qualifying for Europe the whole
season if, when you qualify, the first question you ask is 'Why did you want
to qualify?'"
What do you know about Astra Giurgiu? Did you know they have lost a lot of
players and their coach is suspended at present?
"I know they have many of the same players as last year [when Astra won 4-3
on aggregate in the third qualifying round] and I know they have many
internationals from different countries. "They sold a few players, that's
also true, but they have a team who have played together for some time. They
gave FC Copenhagen a good game at home in the UEFA Champions League
qualifiers, drawing 1-1, and for me what is crucial is that they're the
current champions of Romania. "I know the Romanian league, being from
Croatia, and I know how good Romanian teams can be. OK, maybe they sold a
few players, but I'm expecting a tough game."
Does the fact Darren Randolph is sat next to you suggest he will start on
Thursday? And also, how is Adrian's leg after Diego Costa's challenge at
Chelsea on Monday evening?
"I said openly last season when we won 3-0 at Anfield that the only
department that I don't have to talk about are 'keepers because we have
great goalkeepers and also Rafa Spiegel who is a young and exciting No3.
"There will be competition. Adrian is the No1 but Randy will get his chance
because he deserves it. I'm not doing it because I want to please everyone,
but because he showed last season that he can do the job so he's going to
play in Europe and in cup ties in England minimum." "Adrian's leg is OK, but
since the game he didn't train. He had a recovery session on Tuesday, but he
seems OK."
You have brought Jonathan Calleri with you to Romania. What can you tell us
about him?
"He has travelled and is with us for a couple of reasons. First off all, it
was a deal that was done a while ago and we knew about it. "He has been with
Argentina at the Olympics and we were very happy when he decided to come to
us. He's a really good striker and we need that kind of a player. "He came
and trained on Tuesday in the morning, but the other players weren't out on
the pitch. He trained with the guys this evening and he might be out there
tomorrow. "He is in form, played in three games at the Olympics and scored,
so he is definitely in good shape and doesn't need pre-season and all that.
The only question-mark is jet-lag, so we'll see on Thursday."
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SAG set Bournemouth capacity at 57,000
WHUFC.com
All Season Ticket Holders, Club London Members and Claret Members who have
already been allocated tickets in the ballot will be accommodated within the
57,000 capacity.
At this time the Club is unable to release further tickets in the ballot to
Claret Members, as had originally been planned, despite unprecedented demand
for tickets.
Following a meeting of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Group, Newham
Council has formally agreed to increase the working capacity of the London
Stadium to 57,000 (from 54,000) ahead of the Club's first home Premier
League match against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday 21 August.
All West Ham United Season Ticket Holders, Club London Members and Claret
Members who have already been allocated tickets in the ballot for the game
will be able to take their seats for the historic match, alongside AFC
Bournemouth's official allocation of away supporters.
Both of the opening two fixtures were hailed a resounding success by
supporters and media commentators alike but the LSSAG has identified that
standing in an all-seater stadium is dangerous and contrary to ground
regulations.
The Club appreciates that many supporters across the country do stand at
football matches, but London Stadium is licensed as an all-seater Stadium
and persistent standing has posed a significant problem to many supporters,
particularly young and disabled ticket holders.
LSSAG will continue to monitor the situation very closely and has noted that
the Club has issued messages to supporters to remain seated throughout the
game, and acknowledge that the Club will want to increase the capacity to
60,000 as soon as possible.
Vice Chairman Baroness Brady CBE said: "As a Board we must follow the
guidance as set out by LSSAG to ensure more supporters are able to attend
matches at our stunning new home.
"While an increased capacity of 57,000 is naturally a significant step
forward for all concerned, we absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000
capacity in the very near future.
"We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and will work closely
with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to reach a 60,000
capacity in the coming weeks.
"The LSSAG have identified that standing in an all-seater stadium is
dangerous and that we must continue to communicate this to our supporters."
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold added: "We understand the
traditions of football and that many supporters like to stand, but the
reality is that the license is for all-seating. Therefore, we urge our
supporters to watch the game from their seats."
The Club will continue to work with LS185, London Borough of Newham, the
LSSAG and all relevant authorities and partners to operate at the intended
60,000 capacity as soon as possible.
Will I be able to sit in my regular Season Ticket seat for Bournemouth?
Yes.
What will the capacity be for the Europa League game versus Astra Giurgiu?
The capacity is now set at 57,000.
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Calleri completes Hammers move
WHUFC.com
Jonathan Calleri receives international clearance to complete season-long
loan move
Twenty-two-year-old arrives from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
Argentina Olympic striker has netted 39 goals in 90 appearances over last
two seasons
West Ham United are delighted to announce that exciting Argentine striker
Jonathan Calleri has completed his season-long loan move to east London. The
22-year-old has received international clearance and joined his new
teammates in training at Rush Green on Tuesday. Calleri, who has arrived
from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado after prolific spells with Argentine
giants Boca Juniors and Brazilian side Sao Paulo, is in Slaven Bilic's squad
for Thursday's UEFA Europa League play-off round tie with Astra Giurgiu and
cannot wait to get started.
"I am very happy to have signed for West Ham," said the new No28, who
finished as leading scorer in the 2015 Copa Libertadores – South America's
equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – for Sao Paulo. "This represents a
fantastic new challenge for me and I am really looking forward to it. "The
Premier League is the best league in the world and so I am delighted to have
this opportunity to play in such a prestigious league."
Calleri arrives ready to make an immediate impact after playing and scoring
for his country at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. After netting 39 goals in 90
appearances over the last two seasons, the forward is hungry to hit the net
on a regular basis in Claret and Blue. While it may take some overseas stars
time to settle in English football, Calleri is willing to make all the
sacrifices necessary to ensure he is a success on this side of the Atlantic.
"It is a new chapter for me and so I am excited to get started here and to
fit in as quickly as possible, so that I can be as useful as possible to my
new teammates and manager," he insisted. "These are exciting times for me
personally and I am motivated to adapt my game to this new environment. "I
am a player who always tries to work as hard as I can and to do my best for
the team."
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his career with Primera Division side
All Boys, making his senior debut at the age of 19 in August 2013. The young
forward's ability and promise attracted the attention of Argentina's biggest
clubs and it was no surprise when legendary South American coach Carlos
Bianchi took him to Boca Juniors in July 2014. There, Calleri netted his
first goal on his second start at Estudiantes before celebrating his 20th
birthday with the winner against local rivals Racing Club. The busy South
American fixture list saw Calleri amass an impressive 53 appearances, 21
goals and eleven assists in a successful 18-month spell with Boca that saw
him win the Primera Division and Copa Argentina double in late 2015. The
exciting youngster joined Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado in January 2016
and was soon loaned to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo. Calleri spent six months
in southern Brazil, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances, including an
impressive nine in 12 Copa Libertadores ties as Sao Paulo reached the
semi-finals. He will become the sixth Argentine to play for West Ham after
Lionel Scaloni, Javier Mascherano, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Zarate and current
star Manuel Lanzini.
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Joint-Chairman - Calleri is a top player
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan believes new signing Jonathan
Calleri has the potential to become the Club's top goalscorer this season.
Calleri has joined the east London Club on a season-long loan and has been
granted international clearance. The Argentine forward is available to face
Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League on Thursday night and Mr Sullivan is
expecting big things from the talented forward. Mr Sullivan said: "He's a
top player and was the leading goalscorer this season in the Copa
Libertadores, the South American version of the Champions League. "He is the
immediate back up for Argentina who are the number one rated team in the
world. "He showed his quality at the Olympic Games for Argentina this summer
and will be another great addition to the squad. "We have a great track
record of signing players from Argentina with Carlos Tevez and Manuel
Lanzini becoming big players at West Ham United. It would be great if
Jonathan could follow in their footsteps. "We expect him to be one of our
top goalscorers this season."
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Jonathan Calleri - Ten Fast Facts
WHUFC.com
Find out more about West Ham United's exciting new Argentine striker
Jonathan Calleri…
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his senior career with the All Boys
club which also developed former West Ham favourite Carlos Tevez in the
1990s.
Calleri appeared as a teenager at the Viareggio Cup competition in Tuscany,
Italy, in February 2013, scoring in a win over Italian club Sampdoria.
A first-team debut arrived in August 2013, when the 19-year-old Calleri
appeared as a substitute in the Copa Argentina tie against Estudiantes de La
Plata.
A Primera Division debut arrived the following month, when Calleri played
for the final 16 minutes at Argentinos on 7 September 2013.
Calleri's maiden senior goal arrived in the Primera Division draw at Arsenal
de Sarandi on 1 November 2013 – two months after his 20th birthday.
The forward joined Boca Juniors in July 2014, where he managed an impressive
21 goals and eleven goals in 53 appearances in all competitions in his debut
season.
The 2014/15 campaign also brought silverware in the shape of Primera
Division and Copa Argentina winner's medals.
Calleri later spent the 2015 Argentine season playing alongside Tevez at
Boca Juniors. The pair combined to score 24 goals between them in all
competitions.
Calleri finished as the top scorer in the 2016 Copa Libertadores with nine
goals – one more than fellow countrymen Marco Ruben of Rosario Central and
Ismael Sosa of Mexican club UNAM Pumas.
The 22-year-old's form saw him included – initially alongside Manuel Lanzini
– in Argentina's Olympic squad for Rio 2016, where he scored the winner in
the group-stage victory over Algeria.
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Masuaku - This is a big week for the Club
WHUFC.com
Masuaku was impressive during his Premier League debut for the Hammers
The French defender hopes his side can get straight back on the winning
trail
Masuaku is relishing the chance to play in England
West Ham United defender Arthur Masuaku is confident his side can bounce
straight following the defeat against Chelsea and knows the importance of
winning the next two games. Masuaku had a mixed night of emotions following
his debut for the Club at Stamford Bridge. The French defender was thrilled
to play his first Premier League game, but was upset that his side failed to
take anything from the game after Diego Costa scored a dramatic last minute
winner. Masuaku has stressed the importance of getting back straight back on
the winning trail and feels the players will have a point to prove when they
face Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League on Thursday and Bournemouth at home
on Sunday. Masuaku said: "All the players were disappointed because we
conceded the goal in the last minute. I thought was the game was in our
hands but unfortunately we let in the second goal. We just have to keep
working hard together as a team. "It was a great strike from Ginge to get us
back into the game and I thought Dimitri came on and changed the game
because he has great quality and for me he is a world class player. "We saw
what he can do as he crossed the ball in for the goal. It was unfortunate
that we could not hold but we have to move on now. "I really enjoyed my
Premier League debut as it was always my target to play in England since I
was a youngster. "The Premier League is very fast and for me it was tough
physically as I am not 100 per cent yet. I just want to keep going, work
hard and hopefully show my best form. "This is a big week for the Club and
we have two important games in the Europa League and then the first home
game against Bournemouth. I hope we are going to win the next two games."
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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Andy Dillon is an established football writer for The Sun and has been
covering Chelsea and West Ham for a number of years. Dillon feels it shows
how far the Hammers have come that they are disappointed to have suffered a
narrow defeat at Stamford Bridge....
To concede with a minute to go must have been very hard to take for Slaven
Bilic and the West Ham players. It was even more heartbreaking considering
who scored the goal following all the controversy over Diego Costa's
challenge on Adrian and whether he should have still been on the pitch.
Everything seemed to go against the Hammers and it was a bad goal to concede
considering Costa was outside the box. But I have to say that West Ham
didn't deserve to win the game and the performance was nothing like last
year when the Hammers came away with a 2-2 draw. The big difference this
time around was that Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini were missing from the
team. Not having either player in the starting line-up was a big blow and
West Ham look a different team when they are not playing. You can also argue
that Andy Carroll didn't get any kind of service and looked totally isolated
in the Hammers attack. There is obviously a big debate over Michail Antonio
playing at right back. I believe his big strength is charging down the right
wing but Slaven obviously feels he can do a good job playing at right back.
You could see he was devastated to give away the penalty and he was then
taken off so it was not a great night for him. On the positive side, it was
Chelsea's first game under new manager Antonio Conte so the whole place had
a lift from the start and the fans were optimistic. It shows how far West
Ham have come that despite a bad performance, they are deeply unhappy to be
beaten in the final minute. We have still got a couple of exciting players
to come back into the team which will make them a lot stronger. This is now
a big week coming up for Slaven and his players and he will be hoping that
they can bounce back straight away and get a victory against Astra Giurgiu
in the Europa League on Thursday. The Europa League can be a distraction and
it can drain a team, but for a club like West Ham, it is important they are
playing in Europe. The key is how Slaven manages it. It is a great
experience for the players and a victory in Romania will set them up nicely
for the first ever game at the new Stadium against Bournemouth on Sunday
which is another big game. For any team moving into a new ground, the key is
to get points on the board quickly and they will want revenge for what
happened last season.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
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Noble looking for Romanian response
WHUFC.com
Ahead of the Hammers' Europa League Play Off first leg away at Romanian side
Astra Girgiu, captain Mark Noble said he and teammates cannot wait for the
opportunity to bounce back from Monday's defeat. The Hammers were edged out
2-1 at Stamford Bridge and now have to refocus quickly in time to face
opponents Astra tomorrow evening. Looking ahead to the tie, Noble said: "The
games are coming thick and fast, had we got a point at Chelsea it would have
been fantastic. "Now we have a huge week ahead, first away in Romania and
the very first Premier League game at the new stadium."
Following Thursday's European excursion, the Hammers play again on Sunday –
their third in seven days – at home to AFC Bournemouth in the first ever
Premier League game at London Stadium.
Noble continued: "The game against Bournemouth is going to be great, the
atmosphere is going to be fantastic. Again, it's another hard game but we
have to pick up points."
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Randolph - It is down to me to perform
WHUFC.com
Darren Randolph admits he is full of confidence following his performances
at the European Championship Finals during the summer and hopes to play a
major role for West Ham in the Europa League this season. Randolph enjoyed
one of the best moments of his career when he was picked to start in goal
for the Republic of Ireland and played his part in helping them qualify from
the group stage. Despite being beaten by the host nation France in the last
16 of the competition, the Hammers keeper insists he will never forget the
experience. After signing a new four-year deal at the end of July, Randolph
has been told he will be first-choice keeper in the Europa League and is now
looking forward to making his first competitive start against Astra Giurgiu
on Thursday night.
Randolph said: "It didn't feel like I had a break which is good in a way
because I am full of confidence and enjoying my football. I am really
enjoying being part of everything that is happening at West Ham. "It was one
of the best experiences of my career during the summer and I have enjoyed
the last year-and-a-half. I just want it to continue for as long as
possible. "Playing at the Euros against those teams and players can only
help you when you perform at that level and give you confidence. "I had a
good cup run last season and I ended up playing a number of games. If that
happens again this season it is down to me to perform whenever I get the
chance to play. "If we can get into the group stages it will be good for me
and the rest of the players who have worked just as hard. It is a great
experience for us to play in different countries and sample different
atmospheres. It will only benefit the team."
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Andre Ayew update
WHUFC.com
Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke has issued an update
on Andre Ayew, who suffered an injury in Monday's Premier League game at
Chelsea. "Andre Ayew injured his right thigh at Chelsea on Monday and
underwent a scan on Wednesday afternoon," Vandenbroucke told whufc.com. "The
medical team will now assess the results with a leading consultant before
drawing any conclusions. "My first thought and priority is with the player
and his physical and mental wellbeing. He has suffered a significant injury
and it is imperative that we do not rush to conclusions and we receive the
correct diagnosis by consulting top specialists. "At this time, it is too
early to put a timeframe on his potential return date but Andre is facing a
significant rehabilitation period. "The best thing we can do as a Club is to
support Andre through this difficult period. We will keep you updated
throughout this process and I am sure he will be come back stronger than
ever."
Everyone at West Ham United wishes Andre a speedy recovery and return to
action.
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From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Fan blogger Joe Difford looks back at Monday's game at Chelsea…
This time last year, West Ham were faced with the task of going to Emirates
Stadium on the opening day of the season, but we stunned the division by
comfortably taking all three points.
This season we were dealt a tough opening game again, having to travel to
Stamford Bridge to face a Chelsea side who were expected to bounce back
after a train wreck of a campaign last year.
As luck would have it, we were already missing Aaron Cresswell, Manuel
Lanzini and Sofiane Feghouli to injury.
The hosts began as expected, keeping possession and settling fast, getting
Eden Hazard on the ball and helping him grow in confidence after a
surprisingly poor season last year. The left winger reverted back to his old
self however, causing early problems for Michail Antonio, again used as a
right back.
Antonio Conte's side were in control throughout, and Oscar saw a penalty
appeal correctly waved away after beating Winston Reid and falling to the
ground from the slightest of brushes from the Kiwi's arm.
The first half ended with fans worrying about new record signing Andre Ayew,
as the former Swansea man pulled up with what looked like a thigh injury and
was forced to come off.
It was a spot kick just after the restart that gave the Blues a
much-deserved opener, as Antonio attempted to run the ball out of defence,
was dispossessed, and bundled over Cesar Azpilicueta. Hazard buried the
resulting penalty, and it looked as if Chelsea would leave with a narrow
victory.
For all their possession however, Conte's men struggled to break down the
Hammers, and James Collins put in yet another quality performance alongside
the confident and composed Reid. New signing Arthur Masuaku had an
impressive debut, looking assured with the ball at his feet, and he will
only improve with time.
The biggest talking point came midway through the second half, as Adrian
attempted to trick Diego Costa with some quick footwork, before the Chelsea
striker dived in off the floor with a slide tackle that was worthy of a red
card. His studs were planted into the middle of the Hammers' keeper's shin,
but the referee failed to even show Costa a yellow card, which incidentally
would have been his second of the game, after he was booked in the first
half for arguing with the match official.
11 vs 11, the game continued, and James Collins managed to claw back an
equaliser in the 77th minute, following some great play from substitute
Dimitri Payet. The Frenchman's corner was whipped in and cleared only as far
as Collins, who smashed home into the corner, sending the travelling fans
into a frenzy.
A draw would have been a great result considering the disappointing
performance and wealth of injuries in our squad, but Costa crushed Hammers'
hearts in the final minute.
Chelsea new boy Michy Batshuayi flicked it on to Costa, who found space and
smashed the ball into the corner, through a box-full of claret and blue
shirts. The result wouldn't have been too hard to take if not for the fact
that the striker was lucky to be on the pitch at this point. He wheeled away
to the fans and leapt over the advertising boards, another bookable offence
in some games.
It might have been a frustrating opening day for Slaven Bilic and Co., but
it is just one of 38 games to come this season, and with a fully fit squad
and some better refereeing decisions, we still have the potential to enjoy a
great season.
For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THU, 18 AUG 2016EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING PLAY-OFFS - 1ST LEG
19:15
Venue: Stadionul Marin Anastasovici
Astra Giurgiu v West Ham United (Thu)
BBC.co.uk
Europa League qualifying play-off first leg
Date: Thursday 18 August
Kick-off: 19:15 BST
How to follow:
Live text commentary on the BBC Sport website; live on BBC Radio London 94.9
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says there is a "big hype" about the club
qualifying for the Europa League. The Hammers come up against Romanian side
Astra Giurgui, the side who beat them at the same stage last season, in the
play-off round on Thursday. "We wanted to get into the Europa League and it
was a reward for last season," said boss Bilic.
Striker Andre Ayew will miss out with a thigh injury so on-loan Jonathan
Calleri could make his debut. Bilic confirmed goalkeeper Darren Randolph
will start in place of Adrian, but midfielder Manuel Lanzini - who scored
against Astra last season - is still a week away from a return to training.
The London side entered the Europa League at the third qualifying round
after finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, and have so far
beaten Slovenia's NK Domzale. Last season, after a 2-2 draw in the first leg
at Upton Park, West Ham suffered a 2-1 defeat in Giurgiu to exit the
competition. Bilic added: "Everyone at the club wants to participate. It is
a great experience for the players to participate in different countries.
"We have a big job to do against the Romanian champions. I know there are
many players from last year and a lot of international players. "For me they
played a good game against Copenhagen at home and I know how good the teams
from Romania can be."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andre Ayew: West Ham's new signing out with 'significant' injury
BBC.co.uk
West Ham's Andre Ayew faces a "significant rehabilitation period" after
injuring a thigh during Monday's 2-1 loss at Chelsea.
The 26-year-old played only 35 minutes of his league debut for the east
London club before he had to be taken off.
The club confirmed a scan on Wednesday showed the new signing from Swansea
had "a significant injury".
They added it was too early to put a timeframe on a potential return date
for the Ghana forward.
Stijn Vandenbroucke, the head of West Ham's medical and sports science team,
said it was "imperative that we do not rush to conclusions and we receive
the correct diagnosis by consulting top specialists".
He added: "My first thought and priority is with the player and his physical
and mental wellbeing.
"The best thing we can do as a club is to support Andre through this
difficult period."
Ayew joined the Hammers from Swansea for £20.5m last week.
He scored 12 league goals for the Swans last season having signed for them
in June 2015.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sponsors apologise for Antonio tweet
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's principal sponsors Betway have issued an apology after a
tweet criticising Slaven Bilic's selection of Michail Antonio at right back
was published on the company's timeline. Following last night's 2-1 defeat
at Stamford Bridge a post on the Betway account slammed Bilic for playing
the right-winger in defence. "Antonio has been an accident waiting to happen
in defence," it read. "West Ham fans will hope that's the end of the
experiment." But having received much criticism from supporters since,
Betway backtracked and issued an apology on their timeline this lunchtime,
as you can see below: Despite the furore caused by the offending tweet, a
number of supporters have expressed support for the message it carried.
"Betway have apologised, although I'm not sure why," wrote one supporter on
the KUMB Forum this morning, "as it's a fact many of us concur with."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Calleri set for Europa debut
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Jonathan Calleri is available for selection when West Ham face Astra Giurgiu
in the Europa League play-offs on Thursday. The 22-year-old striker
officially joined the club yesterday after weeks of waiting for a work
permit to be issued. And the good news is that he is in line for selection
when West Ham face the Romanians at the Stadionul Marin Anastasovici in 48
hours time.
David Sullivan, who was heavily involved in the deal believes that Slaven
Bilic's latest squad addition has what it takes to be a major success in the
Premier League. "He's a top player and was the leading goalscorer this
season in the Copa Libertadores," he told West Ham's website. "He showed his
quality at the Olympic Games for Argentina this summer and will be another
great addition to the squad. "We have a great track record of signing
players from Argentina with Carlos Tevez and Manuel Lanzini becoming big
players at West Ham United. It would be great if Jonathan could follow in
their footsteps."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Capacity raised for Bournemouth clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are set to break their attendance record for the second time in a
fortnight after it was confirmed that the Olympic Stadium's capacity will be
raised to 57,000 for the visit of Bournemouth this weekend. With the club's
previous longstanding record having been surpassed by the recent visits of
Domzale and Juventus, for which 54,000 were in attendance, an extra 3,000
are set to attend this weekend's meeting with the Cherries. "Following a
meeting of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Group, Newham Council has
formally agreed to increase the working capacity of the London Stadium to
57,000," read a statement published on whufc.com. "All West Ham United
season ticket holders, Club London members and Claret Members who have
already been allocated tickets in the ballot for the game will be able to
take their seats alongside Bournemouth's official allocation of away
supporters."
With stadium management no longer in the club's hands, the capacity has been
set by the London Stadium Safety Advisory Group, who will "continue to
monitor the situation very closely."
West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady added: "While an increased capacity of
57,000 is naturally a significant step forward for all concerned, we
absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000 capacity in the very near
future. "We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and will work
closely with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to reach a
60,000 capacity in the coming weeks."
The LSSAG are understood to have refused to allow the full 60,000 allocation
at present due to persistent standing at the Olympic Stadium by some
supporters.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The woes of Michail Antonio
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Tom Kilbey
Now the dust has settled on our opening day defeat and while the performance
raised a number of questions (such as, is Gokhan Tore, Bilic's number one
target this season, actually a fat man in disguise, or, who is responsible
for placing the 'record signing' curse on us?) but undoubtedly the number
one talking point was Michail Antonio, and his apparent fall out with Slaven
Bilic.
Before I go on, let me put this in context. Anyone who knows me will be
completely sick of the extent to which I wax lyrical about the pacey winger.
My 'second team' is Sheffield Wednesday simply because I used to enjoy
watching them play to see Antonio terrorising Championshp defenders, and I
was so excited when he was linked with us that I promised to buy a shirt
with his name on if he scored. Never have I been so glad to part with £60.
So in light of Antonio forced to play out of position, you may be thinking
you know exactly where I am heading with this. But you might be wrong.
First, I must say that there has been a whole lot of rubbish being spoken on
Twitter over the last few days. Someone even blamed Bilic playing Antonio at
right back for Ayew's injury. Apparently, if we had a 'proper' right back,
then Ayew wouldn't have needed to track back and hence wouldn't have got
injured. I suspect that even Byram himself, who would have been up against
Hazard all evening, would not have fancied himself one on one with the the
Belgian. This is just not a useful argument to make.
So instead, I will look at the situation from each of the individual's
points of view. In my mind, it is clear that both Slaven and Michail are
discontent with the current situation, and I don't agree that Slaven has
some sort of childish vendetta, or even a Allardyce size bout of
stubbornness. Instead I think there are sensible reasons for the sitation
that we are watching play out.
Michail's point of view
Michail Antonio is one of the most exciting players in England. He's hugely
ambitious too - after turning down the opportunity to play for Jamaica, it's
clear he has set his sights on the England team.
He brings something entirely different from what the national side currently
has, and based on his performances last season, was surely in line for a
call up to fill a position that no one in the country has nailed down for
years. Back at West Ham, Antonio has had a difficult start to the season,
being played out of position and making mistakes. One could argue that Bilic
didn't even fancy him from the outset, and there were signs of frustration
even early last season when he was consistently being overlooked for an
opportunity to perform.
When Michail did get his opportunity, it wasn't long before he was forced
into playing at full back and did so admirably. His work rate was enormous,
and he continued to be a threat going forward despite taking on more
defensive responsibilities. His attitude and work rate were second to none,
and he was maturely doing what was required for the team. This season, Bilic
had the opportunity to deal with the lack of full backs, and instead has
watched Bilic sign several wingers that have clearly jumped the queue.
Michail can even point to the lack of goals we apparently have in our team
to make a case for playing further up the pitch. He scored a number of
hugely important goals last season, amassing 8 goals - bettered only by
Carroll and Payet. Equally, when he does not play, our quality from wide
areas is rarely there. Take into account that Payet and Cresswell, surely
our other two best crossers of the ball, are currently injured, Michail's
frustration is completely understandable. In light of all of this, it would
be hard to begrudge him if he handed in a transfer request in January if
nothing changes.
Slaven's point of view
What I plan to say here essentially assumes three things. A quick twitter
search appears to suggest that some disagree with these points, but for
argument's sake let's agree that:
1) Slaven is not an idiot.
2) Slaven will not have taken pleasure in the fact that Michail looked
devastated after being substituted on Monday night.
3) Slaven will surely know that all else being equal, Michail can do more
damage further up the pitch, than in defence.
What people fail to remember is that Michail played at defence a few times
last season with success. He did the basics right, and was solid
defensively. While we would all prefer he was playing higher up the park,
once Jenkinson returned to Arsenal, it was generally accepted that he was
performing fairly well. This was during a period in the season when we were
being heavily tipped for a Top 4 finish - we were winning matches. In
essence, there was no massive issue with Antonio in the right back position.
What we've seen this season is something slightly different. In the away leg
against Domzale, it's difficult to argue that Antonio was doing anything
other than protesting against playing in defence by, well, not playing
there. The holes in our defence that evening were ridiculous, and he and
would not have put a performance like that in last season - just take a look
at some of his performances at right back last season. I promise you'll find
that for the most part, he was a dependable and solid right back.
Now take a look at his performance at Stamford Bridge. After hanging on to
the clean sheet in the first half, Slaven would undoubtedly have told his
players to settle down, make it difficult for Chelsea for play, and most
importantly to avoid making any mistakes. Imagine his frustration, then,
when barely before his words had stopped echoing around the changing room,
Michail Antonio did the absolute opposite.
You do not have to be a natural defender to know what Antonio did was
brainless. He could easily have found himself in that position playing as a
winger, I'm sorry, but playing in a somewhat unfamiliar position does not
suddenly make moments of stupidity excusable. He has to accept a huge amount
of blame for his performances against Domzale and Chelsea, and this explains
why Bilic was so angry when he was substituted.
So what's next?
Antonio has to get his head down. I absolutely believe that he has a future
at the club. Slaven has flirted with the idea of playing three at the back
in the past, and Antonio is a fantastic asset to have when this is the
chosen tactic. Not to mention our injury record, along with the fact that
Tore looks entirely unfit and nowhere near good enough, means that Antonio
could soon find himself our main winger once again.
I think he needs to return to his attitude he had last season where he did
what was required for the team. If he does this, he will win back the
respect of his manager, and put him in a good position for selection. A lack
of application and motivation when called upon is not the answer, and he is
surely professional enough to know that. In turn and in time, I have faith
that Bilic will surely will reward Michail with the opportunities further up
the pitch he dearly craves.
Let me know what you think - contact me at @tom29whu.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet excused Euro duty
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Dimitri Payet will not be joining the rest of the West Ham's first team
squad in Bucharest having been excused Europa League duty. The French
international, who was a losing finalist in the summer's Euro 16 tournament
has played just 25 minutes for the Hammers since returning to England having
taken a late pre-season break. And KUMB has learned that he has not
travelled to Romania for the Europa League play-off round first leg tie with
Astra Giurgiu, who knocked West Ham out of the tournament last season.
Also absent from the touring party is new signing Arthur Masuaku, who made
his debut at Stamford Bridge on Monday night. Additionally Havard Nodtveit,
Sofiane Feghouli and the injured Andre Ayew have all failed to travel. That
means the likes of Marcus Browne, Ashley Fletcher and new signing Jonathan
Calleri (pictured above) - all of whom flew to Bucharest this morning with
the first team squad - have been granted the opportunity to impress instead.
West Ham face Astra in the first leg of the play-off this Thursday evening,
with the return leg scheduled for the Olympic Stadium seven days later
(Thursday, 25 August).
Team to face Astra Giurgiu (from): Darren Randolph, Adrian, Raphael Speigel;
Reece Burke, Sam Byram, James Collins, Angelo Ogbonna, Reece Oxford, Winston
Reid; Michail Antonio, Cheikhou Kouyate, Mark Noble, Pedro Obiang, Gokhan
Tore; Marcus Browne, Jonathan Calleri, Andy Carroll, Ashley Fletcher, Enner
Valencia.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic wants extended Europa campaign
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 17/08/16 7:02pm
SSN
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic is taking the Europa League seriously this
season despite admitting it could affect their Premier League form. The
Hammers face a two-legged tie against Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu, with
the away leg on Thursday evening, as they bid to reach the group stages for
the first time. In the past some clubs have taken the competition lightly -
including West Ham last season when they qualified through the Fair Play
League and were knocked out by Astra in the qualifying round. Bilic fielded
a team of youngsters for that clash but has brought a full squad, including
the likes of Dimitri Payet, Mark Noble and Andy Carroll, for the rematch.
"We will put out a strong team," he said. "We want to get to the group
stages. These are two very important games for West Ham United. "We want to
qualify. It's a reward for a good season last year and only a few clubs from
the Premier League are privileged to play in Europe. We are two games from
the group stages and we want to participate. "All the talk all season is
'will you qualify for Europe', and then you do and the next question is 'why
did you qualify?' Well, we have to adjust. "We know it affects your chances
in the next Premier League game but we want to try it. It's good for
everyone, it's good for the players to play games against teams from
different countries, they become better players."
Astra beat the Hammers 2-1 in Giurgiu last season but are in some disarray
this time around having lost a number of key players and their coach Marius
Sumudica, who is suspended for betting on matches. The Romanians were
initially in the Champions League but were knocked out in the qualifiers by
FC Copenhagen. Bilic added: "They have many internationals, although they
sold a few players. They have a team who have played together for some time.
"Look, they played a good game against Copenhagen at home, drew 1-1, and
what is crucial is that they are current champions of Romania. I'm Croatian,
so I know how good teams from Romania can be. I'm expecting a tough game."
West Ham will be without £20m striker Andre Ayew, who is awaiting the result
of a scan on the thigh injury he suffered at Chelsea on Saturday, with Bilic
fearing he will be out for 'weeks, rather than days'. Aaron Cresswell,
Manuel Lanzini and Sofiane Feghouli are also injured and new left-back
Arthur Masuaku is cup-tied.
But Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri has travelled with the squad and
could be involved following his loan switch from from Uruguayan club
Deportivo Maldonado.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United's record signing Andre Ayew facing 'four months out'
By Chris MacRae
Last Updated: 17/08/16 8:37pm
SSN
West Ham United's record signing Andre Ayew requires surgery on his thigh
injury and could be out of action for up to four months. Ayew was forced to
come off in the first half of his competitive debut, the Sky Live 2-1 defeat
at Chelsea on Monday Night Football. West Ham boss Slaven Bilic travelled to
Romania for the club's latest Europa League qualifier on Wednesday without
their record signing saying he expected the Ghana international would be out
"for a few weeks".
But Jack Sullivan, son of West ham joint-chairman David, said on social
media: "We are devastated that Ayew will be out for about 4 month (sic). He
needs a surgery."
In a statement on their website, the club's head of medical and sports
science Stijn Vandenbroucke admitted the player faced "a significant
rehabilitation period" out of the game. He said: "Andre Ayew injured his
right thigh at Chelsea on Monday and underwent a scan on Wednesday
afternoon. "The medical team will now assess the results with a leading
consultant before drawing any conclusions. "My first thought and priority is
with the player and his physical and mental wellbeing. He has suffered a
significant injury and it is imperative that we do not rush to conclusions
and we receive the correct diagnosis by consulting top specialists. "At this
time, it is too early to put a time-frame on his potential return date but
Andre is facing a significant rehabilitation period. "The best thing we can
do as a Club is to support Andre through this difficult period. We will keep
you updated throughout this process and I am sure he will be come back
stronger than ever."
West Ham, who finished seventh last season, host their first league game -
and the Sky Sports cameras - at the London stadium when they entertain
Bournemouth on Sunday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham rocked by Andre Ayew injury blow as striker ruled out for four
months
19:14, 17 AUG 2016 UPDATED 20:42, 17 AUG 2016
BY TOM HOPKINSON
The former Swansea frontman limped off with a thigh problem just half an
hour into his debut following his £20.5m switch to east London
The Mirror
West Ham have been rocked by the news that record signing Andre Ayew needs
surgery on the thigh injury he sustained against Chelsea on Monday and could
be out until the new year. The £20.5million summer signing from Swansea
lasted just 35 minutes into his Hammers debut before pulling up sharply
after a short sprint. Manager Slaven Bilic said yesterday that he feared the
forward would be out for up to three weeks. But an hour later the results of
a scan confirmed the injury was far worse than had first been expected. The
Hammers' head of medical Stijn Vandenbroucke said: "Andre underwent a scan
and the medical team will now assess the results with a leading consultant
before drawing any conclusions. "He has suffered a significant injury and it
is imperative that we do not rush to conclusions and we receive the correct
diagnosis by consulting top specialists. "At this time, it is too early to
put a timeframe on his potential return date but Andre is facing a
significant rehabilitation period." Ayew had stayed behind in England to
undergo the scan while the rest of the team jetted out to Romania for the
first leg of their Europa League qualifier against Astra Giurgiu on Thursday
night.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham must learn to cope with demands of Europe if they want to join
England's elite, warns Slaven Bilic
18:38, 17 AUG 2016 UPDATED 18:39, 17 AUG 2016
BY TOM HOPKINSON
The Hammers will qualify for the Europa League group stage if they beat
Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu over two legs, starting in Giurgiu on
Thursday
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has told his West Ham stars they must learn to cope with the
demands of Europe like the rest of the Premier League's big boys. The
Hammers will qualify for the Europa League group stage if they beat Romanian
champions Astra Giurgiu over two legs, starting in Giurgiu on Thursday. And
Bilic, who fears he will be without record signing Andre Ayew for up to
three weeks after he sustained a thigh injury against Chelsea, wants his
players to soak up the experience and get used to the gruelling
Thursday-Sunday schedule which goes with it. Bilic said: "I have said a
number of times it affects your chances in the next game in the Premier
League but despite that we want to try. "It's good for everyone, it's good
for the players, if they play in different countries against different teams
they become better players as well. "It is not very common for West Ham to
play on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, but why talk about qualifying for
Europe all season, with a big hype about it, and then whoever qualifies, the
next question is, 'Why did you qualify?' "So we have to adjust. Like
Manchester City played Saturday and Tuesday, we played Monday and Thursday,
it's the same. "And okay, from Tuesday they have enough time till Saturday
when they play, while from Thursday we don't have a lot of time till Sunday.
"And I know that Manchester City players, for the whole of their careers
they get used to playing in midweek in the Champions League for Valencia,
Manchester City, Lazio, whoever. "We didn't, but we want to give it a go."
West Ham lost to Astra, whose coach Marius Sumudica is banned from all
football activity for two months because of a betting offence, in the Europa
League qualifying phase last season. Bilic added: "We came here knowing we
have a very, very tough team to face. "They are champions of Romania, a team
we respect a lot, and we have a big job to do."
Dimitri Payet has stayed in London to work on his fitness while Adrian, who
has not trained since Diego Costa caught him with a late challenge on
Monday, has travelled but will be replaced by Darren Randolph. Argentinian
Jonathan Calleri, who completed his season-long loan to West Ham from
Deportivo Maldonado earlier this week, is likely to feature. Bilic said:
"He's a very good striker and we need that kind of player. "He is in form,
he played in the Olympics, so he is definitely in a good shape. "He doesn't
need a pre-season. The only question is a bit of jet-lag, it was a long
flight, but that was four days ago."
LIKELY LINE-UPS
ASTRA: Lung, Sapunaru, Geraldo, Fabricio, Junior Morais, Lovin, Takayuki,
Teixeira, Ionita, Boudjemaa, Niculae.
WEST HAM: Randolph, Burke, Reid, Collins, Byram, Obiang, Kouyate, Antonio,
Noble, Valencia, Carroll.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham capacity at London stadium increased to 57,000
By Chris MacRae
Last Updated: 16/08/16 9:17pm
SSN
West Ham have had their safety certificate approved for increased capacity
of up to 57,000 people for their first Premier League game at their new
home. The club had sought approval for a 60,000 capacity at the London
stadium for the Sky Live game against Bournemouth and are still hoping to
achieve that in the coming weeks but Newham Council has agreed an initial
increase of 3,000 for this Sunday's match. A Safety Advisory Group
identified a problem with persistent standing in an all-seater stadium
during the Europa League qualifier against NK Domzale. Vice Chairman
Baroness Brady CBE said: "As a Board we must follow the guidance as set out
by the London stadium Safety Advisory Group to ensure more supporters are
able to attend matches at our stunning new home. "While an increased
capacity of 57,000 is naturally a significant step forward for all
concerned, we absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000 capacity in the
very near future. "We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and
will work closely with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to
reach a 60,000 capacity in the coming weeks. "The LSSAG have identified that
standing in an all-seater stadium is dangerous and that we must continue to
communicate this to our supporters."
The increased capacity means only Old Trafford (75,635) and the Emirates
(60,432) can host larger crowds in the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's sponsor apologise to Michail Antonio over tweet
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 16/08/16 2:24pm
SSN
West Ham's official shirt sponsors, Betway, have apologised for criticising
Michail Antonio on social media on Monday night. Antonio gave away a penalty
as the Hammers opened their 2016/17 Premier League campaign with a 2-1
defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday Night Football. Eden Hazard
converted from 12-yards and, though James Collins restored parity with less
than 15 minutes to go, Diego Costa netted the home side's winner in the 89th
minute. Antonio, whose usual position is as a right winger, has been
utilised as a right-back by manager Slaven Bilic since the end of last
season, despite a certain section of the club's support calling for him to
be restored to an attacking position. Following his error last night, Betway
tweeted from their official Twitter account: "Antonio has been an accident
waiting to happen in defence… West Ham fans will hope that's the end of the
experiment."
Sky sources understand West Ham and Betway held a conference call on Tuesday
to discuss the tweet. Betway have told Sky Sports News HQ they have a team
of passionate writers who provide impartial opinion across all sports, but
acknowledge this particular tweet was inappropriate in light of the
company's relationship with West Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian says he is lucky Diego Costa tackle in Chelsea win over West Ham did
not cause serious injury
By James Dale
Last Updated: 16/08/16 6:35pm
SSN
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian has said he is lucky not to have been seriously
injured after he was fouled by Diego Costa in the defeat to Chelsea on
Monday Night Football. Costa had already been booked when he fouled Adrian
in the second half and although referee Anthony Taylor awarded a free-kick,
he did not produce a second yellow card. The Chelsea forward then went on to
score an 89th-minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory for his side in Antonio
Conte's first Premier League match. Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville felt
Diego Costa should have been sent off against West Ham. Adrian has now
responded to the incident by posting an image depicting Costa's high tackle
with the hashtag '#fairplay', and expressing his relief at not sustaining
more serious damage.
The West Ham goalkeeper said on Twitter: "Disappointed about last night!!
Thank God my leg is okay after that, could have been much…" Costa, 27,
scored just 12 Premier League goals last season after scoring 20 in his
first season and with Chelsea signing forward Michy Batshuayi for £33m in
the summer, it was thought Costa's first-team place may be at risk.
However, the Spanish forward started Conte's first league game in charge and
his goal could help him keep his place in the side for their trip to Watford
on Saturday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonathan Calleri ready to fight after joining West Ham
Last Updated: 16/08/16 10:11pm
SSN
West Ham have completed the signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri on
a season-long loan. Slaven Bilic revealed last week a deal was almost done
to bring in the 22-year-old from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado. And
Calleri has completed the paperwork in time to join the squad for West Ham's
Europa League qualifier against Romania's Astra Giurgiu on Thursday.
"I am very happy to have signed for West Ham," he told the club website.
"This represents a fantastic new challenge for me and I am really looking
forward to it. "The Premier League is the best league in the world and so I
am delighted to have this opportunity to play in such a prestigious league."
Calleri's previous clubs include Boca Juniors and Sao Paulo, and he was part
of the Argentina squad beaten in the first round at the Rio Olympics this
month. "These are exciting times for me personally and I am motivated to
adapt my game to this new environment," he said. "I am a player who always
tries to work as hard as I can and to do my best for the team.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diego Costa great escape leaves West Ham skipper calling for video replays
so refs get big decisions right
22:30, 16 AUG 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Chelsea star was already on a booking when he got away with a studs-up
challenge on keeper Adrian — before then crushing Mark Noble and co by
scoring the winner
The Mirror
Diego Costa's red card row is further evidence that referees need more video
technology help, according to West Ham skipper Mark Noble. Chelsea star
Costa had a big escape when he avoided a second yellow card against the
Hammers on Monday. Already on a booking for dissent, striker Costa lunged in
on keeper Adrian and caught his fellow Spaniard halfway up his right shin
with a studs-first challenge. Referee Anthony Taylor decided not to caution
the 27-year-old again, after initially looking like he was about to.
Ben Foster drops the ball behind him but the goal line technology shows the
ball wasn't fully over the line...as has already happened with the system
which takes the guesswork out of goals And, to rub salt into West Ham's
wounds, Costa popped up in the 89th minute to score the winner and deny
Slaven Bilic's side a point. TV replays of the incident didn't reflect well
on either Costa or Taylor and midfielder Noble said: "It probably takes
about five seconds for someone upstairs to look at a video. And that works
both ways then. "I never blame the refs, because I know how tough it is, how
fast the play goes, how difficult it is to keep up with the play, but
someone has got to give us some help.
"We have put goal-line technology in - we have done that and does anyone
argue over whether the ball was over the line any more? No. Did we used to?
Yes. "Simple, isn't it?
"I've always been against this sort of stuff but sometimes it cost us last
year. Big decisions. They do even themselves out but it hurts, doesn't it?
"I knew it was a bad tackle. He didn't get anywhere near the ball — if I
made that tackle in the middle of the pitch am I getting a yellow card? "I
said to Anthony in the game, and I think he is a really good ref, 'What's
the difference between that sort of tackle, which could really injure
someone, and a yellow card for a slight pull-back on a shirt?' You tell me
the difference? "They won't get everything right [because] they are human.
But those decisions really hurt teams now with what is at stake and the
amount of stuff that goes on."
West Ham have to dust themselves down quickly as they travel to Romanians
Astra Giurgiu in the opening leg of a Europa League qualifying play-off on
Thursday, before hosting Bournemouth on Sunday in their first Premier League
game at the Olympic Stadium. They are likely to be without £20.5m record
signing Andre Ayew. Ghanaian forward Ayew, 26, is facing a month out after
being forced off with a thigh injury in the first half at Chelsea.
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West Ham captain Mark Noble wants video replays to be introduced after
controversial defeat at Chelsea
Diego Costa's dramatic winner secured win for Chelsea over West Ham
Costa had already been booked before he fouled goalkeeper Adrian
Mark Noble suggested the Blues striker deserved a second yellow card
The Hammers skipper has called on video replays to be introduced
By MATT MALTBY FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:52, 17 August 2016 | UPDATED: 12:52, 17 August 2016
West Ham captain Mark Noble has called on video replays to be introduced in
the Premier League following his side's incident-packed defeat at Chelsea on
Monday. The Hammers left Stamford Bridge without a point after Diego Costa,
who was fortunate to be on the pitch, netted a dramatic last-gasp winner.
Costa was booked in the first-half and escaped without another booking in
the second period when he caught West Ham keeper Adrian with a reckless
challenge. The lunge, which incensed the Spanish shot-stopper, has led Noble
to suggest referees need help - and he believes video replays are the best
option. Speaking to The Sun, he said: 'I knew it was a bad tackle. He didn't
get anywhere near the ball. If I made that tackle in the middle of the pitch
am I getting a yellow? 'We have put goal-line technology in, we've done that
and does anyone argue over whether the ball was over any more? No. Did we
used to? Yes. 'Simple isn't it? It probably takes about five seconds for
someone upstairs to look at a video. 'I've always been against technology
stuff but it cost us last year too. Big decisions. Maybe they do even
themselves out but it hurts at the time doesn't it?' Sportsmail columnist
Jamie Carragher was in no doubt that Costa was 'lucky' to avoid a red card
in the Premier League opener. Former Liverpool and England defender
Carragher, speaking in his role as a Sky Sports pundit, insisted match
official Anthony Taylor got the decision wrong.
'This is a straight red card, that challenge there, it's typical Costa, it
happens too often.'That there, it comes down the shin, over the ankle, it
won't be the first time, it won't be the last time, he shouldn't be on the
pitch.'
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WEST HAM REGISTER SQUAD FOR EUROPA LEAGUE PLAY-OFF
MICHAEL OLIVER @ReadWestHam
West Ham have registered their squad for their Europa League play-off round
fixtures against Astra Giurgiu. The Hammers successfully navigated the third
qualifying round earlier this month with a 4-2 aggregate victory over
Slovenian side NK Domzale. Romanian outfit Astra Giurgiu meanwhile drop down
into the Europa League play-offs after losing their Champions League third
qualifying round tie with Danish side FC Copenhagen 4-1 on aggregate,
setting up a tie with the Hammers.
Slaven Bilic and Co. will be out for revenge against Astra Giurgiu on
Thursday night, the same team that knocked the Hammers out of the Europa
League qualifiers last season 4-3 on aggregate. West Ham will field a much
strong side one year on from their 2-1 away defeat in Romania last season.
Here's the team that started last season against the same opposition:
Randolph; Knoyle, Jenkinson, Henry, Page; Poyet, Nolan, Cullen; Maiga, Lee,
Lanzini.
As for the squad registered to play Astra Giurgiu, latest signing Jonathan
Calleri has now completed his move to West Ham and received international
clearance to play, he goes straight into the squad for Thursday's game.
Club-record signing Andre Ayew is also included, but the Ghanaian is not
expected to feature after suffering a thigh injury in Monday's Premier
League curtain-raiser against Chelsea. Dimitri Payet, now having returned
from his post-Euro 2016 break, is also back in the fold to play on Thursday
night.
Defenders Lewis Page and Josh Pask, and midfielder Josh Cullen have both
been removed from the squad having completed loan moves to Gillingham and
Bradford respectively, while Aaron Cresswell and Diafra Sakho have both also
been excluded as neither are fit to play. Arthur Masuaku is ineligible to
play having featured for Olympiakos in their Champions League third
qualifying round defeat to Hapoel Beer Sheva earlier this month.
Here is West Ham's registered squad in full:
Goalkeepers:
1) Darren Randolph
13) Adrian
34) Raphael Spiegel
46) Sam Howes*
Defenders:
2) Winston Reid
8) Cheikhou Kouyate
19) James Collins
21) Angelo Ogbonna
22) Sam Byram
32) Reece Burke*
35) Reece Oxford*
51) Mason Barrett*
56) Korrey Henry*
63) Vashon Neufville*
64) Ben Wells*
66) Alex Pike*
70) Tunji Akinola*
Midfielders:
4) Havard Nordtveit
7) Sofiane Feghouli
11) Enner Valencia
14) Pedro Obiang
16) Mark Noble
17) Gökhan Töre
27) Dimitri Payet
41) Declan Rice*
52) Marcus Browne*
53) Matt Carter*
54) Conor Coventry*
55) Grady Diangana*
58) Noha Sylvestre*
60) Moses Makasi*
61) Malyk Hamilton*
69) Anthony Scully*
71) Alfie Lewis*
Forwards:
9) Andy Carroll
20) Andre Ayew
24) Ashley Fletcher
28) Jonathan Calleri
30) Michail Antonio
36) Domingos Quina
40) Djair Parfitt-Williams*
42) Martin Samuelsen
57) Jahmal Hector-Ingram*
62) Benjamin Johnson*
67) Joe Powell*
72) Rosaire Mbule*
* Player B List (Players under the age of 21 that have completed at least
two years at the club – do not need to be registered in the A List)
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West Ham starlet Reece Oxford keen to revive talks over new contract as
Manchester United wait in the wings
Reece Oxford has two years remaining on his West Ham contract
The Hammers have been in no rush to hold new contract talks
The 17-year-old defender has been valued at around £15million
Jose Mourinho has been monitoring his situation in recent weeks
By SAM CUNNINGHAM FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:27, 17 August 2016 | UPDATED: 10:35, 17 August 2016
Reece Oxford is keen to return to the negotiating table and thrash out new
terms with only two years remaining on his West Ham contract. Oxford and the
club are still some distance apart in all aspects of the protracted deal and
no further discussions have been forthcoming recently. The 17-year-old has
been valued at around £15million and his representatives feel he deserves a
contract that reflects that, but Sportsmail understands that no deal is
currently on the horizon. Oxford started in West Ham's 3-0 victory against
NK Domzale in their first ever match at the Olympic Stadium and is expected
to feature regularly for manager Slaven Bilic this season. The Croatian
handed Oxford his debut last season and he made 12 appearances in all
competitions. Such was his progress that Jose Mourinho has been monitoring
his situation since taking over at Manchester United and sent scouts to
watch him at Under 19 European Championships playing for England. The
Portuguese has identified him as a potential key player for the future. West
Ham are adamant they do not want to sell the player and Bilic is in need of
a large squad this season as he competes for domestic success and in the
Europa League.
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