Daily WHUFC News - Pellegrini

Manuel Pellegrini confirmed as West Ham United manager
WHUFC.com

West Ham United are delighted to confirm the appointment of Manuel
Pellegrini as the Club's new First Team Manager. The former Villarreal, Real
Madrid, Malaga and Manchester City boss - a Premier League title winner and
Champions League semi-finalist - has signed a three-year contract at London
Stadium after leaving Chinese Super League club Hebei China Fortune.
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan said: "I am delighted to welcome Manuel
Pellegrini to West Ham United. He is one of the world's most respected
football coaches and we look forward to working with him. "It was important
that we appointed someone with knowledge and experience of the Premier
League, who already has an understanding - not only of the teams and players
we face - but of West Ham United and our ambitions.
"Manuel brings a reputation for attacking football and getting the best out
of his players. We believe he will attract new talent to the London Stadium
as well as improving the current squad. "Above all, he is a winner, who
knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level and is driven to
continue that success. Manuel is the first West Ham United manager to have a
Premier League title on his CV, and we believe that his experience, quality
and proven record of taking teams forward quickly will ensure that he is
successful here. "We have listened to fans who asked us to be ambitious. We
hope they agree it is an exciting appointment. "Manuel will shortly announce
the names of the new staff he will bring in and he will then get down to
shaping the squad he wants. We all wish him the very best of luck."

Chilean Pellegrini returns to England just two years after leaving
Manchester City, where he enjoyed the fifth highest win percentage in
Premier League history during his three years in charge, and arguably helped
lay the foundations for the stunning success subsequently enjoyed under Pep
Guardiola, having signed the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and
Nicolas Otamendi in 2015

In a magnificent debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium in 2013/14, Pellegrini
led City to Premier League glory, becoming the first coach from outside of
Europe to win the title, and also lifted the League Cup in the same season.
City finished that campaign having scored 151 goals in all competitions -
still an English record.

Pellegrini won another League Cup in his final season in Manchester, before
making way for Guardiola in the summer of 2016. For the past two years,
Pellegrini has been in charge of Chinese Super League club Hebei China
Fortune, but recently stated his strong motivation to return to the Premier
League if the right opportunity came along.

The 64-year-old's managerial career stretches back 30 years to his early
days coaching in his native Chile and then Argentina, where he managed the
mighty River Plate in 2002/03, before heading to Europe a year later. In his
first season in Spain with Villarreal, he led the club to Champions League
qualification after finishing third in La Liga, and repeated the feat in his
first full year with Malaga in 2012 - reaching the competition for the first
time in their history.

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West Ham: Manuel Pellegrini named new manager at London Stadium
By Simon Stone
BBC Sport

Manuel Pellegrini has been appointed West Ham manager on a three-year deal.
The 64-year-old former Manchester City and Real Madrid manager flew in for
talks after leaving his job with Hebei China Fortune over the weekend. Final
negotiations were concluded on Monday night, allowing Pellegrini to return
to the Premier League. He succeeds David Moyes, who was released at the end
of his contract after guiding the Hammers to a 13th place finish. Chilean
Pellegrini will be joined at London Stadium by assistant Ruben Cousillas.

West Ham had explored the possibility of hiring Newcastle United manager
Rafael Benitez but quickly concluded it would be hugely difficult for the
Spaniard to leave St James' Park. Pellegrini, who was on a huge contract in
China, has agreed to take a pay cut but it is anticipated he will become the
highest paid manager in West Ham's history. Chairman David Sullivan had
previously said he intended to hire someone who had experience at the
highest level. He will hope Pellegrini, who won the 2013-14 Premier League
title and two EFL Cups during his three years at Manchester City, in
addition to qualifying the club for the Champions League semi-finals for the
only time in their history, can bring some stability to West Ham. The club
have experienced huge problems during their first two seasons after leaving
their legendary home at Upton Park.

Manuel Pellegrini's Premier League record
Club Season Win % Points per game
Man City 2013-14 71.1% 2.26
Man City 2014-15 63.2% 2.08
Man City 2015-16 50.0% 1.74

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 22nd May 2018

Lanzini selected for Argentina's World Cup squad
WHUFC.com

West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's final 23-man squad for this summer's World Cup tournament in Russia. The 25-year-old has made three appearances for the Argentinian side since his debut last year, scoring his first goal for his nation in a 2-0 win over Italy in March. The No.10's performance have clearly been enough to Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli, who has included the Hammer in his squad for the World Cup finals, which are due to begin on June 15. Argentina have been drawn in Group D for this summer's competition, and will take on Iceland on Saturday 16 June, Croatia on June 21, and Nigeria in their group closer on June 26. Lanzini played 29 times in all competitions for West Ham this season, scoring five goals and providing nine assists, including two excellent finishes in our final match of the season at home to Everton.

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Haksabanovic selected for Montenegro friendly internationals
WHUFC.com

Sead Haksabanovic has been named in the Montenegro squad for international friendly matches with Bosnia & Herzegovina and Slovenia. The talented attacking midfielder has been named in Ljubisa Tumbakovic's 29-man selection for the two end-of-season fixtures, which will be played in Zenica on Monday 28 May and Podgorica on Saturday 2 June respectively. Montenegro will be seeking to end the 2017/18 campaign on a high after narrowly missing out on a place in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification Play-Offs, finishing third in Group E behind Poland and Denmark. Haksabanovic, who made his senior debut in a 4-1 World Cup qualifying win over Armenia in June 2017, will also hope to cement his place in the squad ahead of the inaugural UEFA Nations League tournament, which kicks-off in September. Montenegro have been placed in League C Group 4 alongside Serbia, Romania and Lithuania, starting their challenge with a trip to Romania on 7 September, followed by a home game with Lithuania three days later. The Swedish-born former Halmstads player, who turned 19 on 4 May, featured 20 times for West Ham United at all levels in his first season in English football, making his first-team debut in the 3-0 EFL Cup win over Bolton Wanderers at London Stadium in September 2017.

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Academy U9s sign schoolboy terms
WHUFC.com

The latest batch of exciting, young footballing talents put pen to paper at the West Ham United Academy recently as the U9s signed their first schoolboy terms with the Club. The youngsters were invited to London Stadium for an induction evening, where they were shown around the Hammers' home prior to the Academy of Football's U23 London derby fixture against Arsenal. The schoolboys, who arrived with their parents in east London, were first shown to the Media Lounge where they enjoyed food and drinks with their parents before embarking on a Stadium Tour. The first stop was the home team dressing room, where the U9s were presented with the famous Claret and Blue jersey, freshly printed with their own surnames. Next, the youngsters were taken pitchside, posing for photos before taking in the surroundings where they will one day hope to make their Hammers debut. Proud parents were later brought out to the pitch and their children were once again in front of the camera as they put pen to paper in a mocked-up contract scenario, having already officially signed days earlier. Finally, as the Club's U23 walked out for their final Premier League 2 fixture, the U9s accompanied the young stars as mascots before, at half time, taking to the field for small-sided matches. The young lads' contracts will see them work under the tutelage of the Academy coaches next season as they look to improve their skills and progress to the next level of their young careers.

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Ray: Sunday's finale was my best day as Ladies coach
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Ladies ended the season in style with a 7-1 victory over QPR Ladies, according to Karen Ray, with the side displaying their quality in front of 1,333 supporters at the finale celebrations. A hat-trick from Ellie Zoepfl, along with finishes by Rosie Kmita, Jasmine Auguste and Rebecca Dunning, saw the Irons end the campaign with a dominant performance, beating QPR 7-1 in the sunshine at Rush Green. The victory caps a remarkable 2018 for the Ladies, who suffered just one defeat in 15 competitive contests, while also lifting two trophies in the Goodmove.co.uk Women's Cup and the WPL Plate. And Ray is delighted with how the entire day played out, having enjoyed the pre-match festivities as well as her side's dominant performance. "We've had one of the biggest turnarounds in women's football in 2018," Ray told whufc.com. "I couldn't be prouder of all the work that went into making the day such a big celebration. We're looking to move on from our league, something we find out about next week, and it was nice to celebrate what we've accomplished while also looking to the future. "I always push the girls to be ruthless. Our saying is 'be consistently excellent', and I think in the second half we showed that. They gave everything they could and they gave the crowd that came a brilliant game to watch. "It was amazing to see 1,333 fans supporting the Ladies. To give the girls a nice end of season send-off was brilliant."
West Ham Ladies headed into Sunday's on the back of their only loss of 2018, a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Lewes, and Ray recognised the challenge in getting her side back to winning ways She continued: "The hardest part was that we've had a two-week break from games during that time. It was about trying to keep our players motivated during training, so the first thing we did after the game was put on a fun, but competitive, training session. "It's tough to go from winning to suffering a loss, but we had to keep the girls mentally strong and preparing them as best as possible. With the set-up we have, there was no doubt in my mind the girls would be ready for the challenge, and they proved that."
For Ray, Sunday's victory doesn't just spell the end of the season, but also the end of her tenure as West Ham Ladies head coach. Ray took charge of the team, initially on an interim basis, back in December following the departure of Greg de Carnys, but has led the side to an incredible turnaround in both form and performance. Ray will now step back into her role as West Ham Ladies general manager, a task she is relishing ahead of the new season. "The plan is to hand the role over to someone Jack Sullivan and I can trust; someone that we know can go on to build the team even more," Ray continued. "It's been tough, it's been long hours, but this experience has definitely given me my love back for coaching. Seeing the girls enjoy the celebrations on Sunday and also getting the results they fully deserve made it all worthwhile for me. "I'll be reverting back to my general manager role and helping Jack and the team off the pitch as we look to build the Club even higher. It's going to take a lot of hands on deck and will require me to be more focused on one role, rather than the two. "I'll be helping the girls from a player care aspect, which as I've alluded to before is very poignant in what I'm trying to do with West Ham. "It's definitely been a journey. It's been so good and I wouldn't have wanted to do it with any other players or a different staff. For me, this is a happy ending. "I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has been an integral part in supporting the Ladies. All the players, the staff, each club department at West Ham, and of course the fans, have all played an essential role in getting us to where we are today. We couldn't have done it without you."

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Adrian: I want to be West Ham United's No1 next season
WHUFC.com

Adrian is aiming to cement his position as West Ham United's No1 again next season. The Spaniard ended the 2017/18 campaign in fine form, helping the Hammers to collect seven points from their final three matches with a series of impressive displays. And the No13, who has become a hugely popular figure during his five years in east London, is targeting a regular starting place when the new Premier League season kicks-off in August. "I like to play, I like to enjoy playing and I want to be the No1, but I have to deserve it as well," said Adrian, who kept six clean sheets in 19 Premier League appearances last term. "If the team can help you with their defending as well, that's much better. "This past season for me has been a bit disappointing and frustrating at times, but I have one more year on my contract and we will see more when the season has finished. "I hope that I can continue to show I am here to help West Ham, as I enjoy it here at London Stadium and I want to keep enjoying it. "The West Ham fans welcomed me with open arms from day one and I feel their love every time that I play."

Alongside his close relationship with the Claret and Blue Army and his teammates, there is also the ambition to represent his country to think about. In August 2016, Adrian was called into the senior Spain squad for the first time, but has yet to make his debut. Manchester United's David De Gea, Napoli's Pepe Reina and Athletic Bilbao's Kepa Arrizabalaga have been named in Spain's FIFA World Cup squad, but that does not mean he has given up on his chance of representing La Roja in the future. "I'm only 31 and I feel every time that, as a goalkeeper, I want to play as many games as possible because I am at an age when I need to play.
"The opportunity with the national team is also there. It's too late for the World Cup because I didn't play enough games, but I know that when I am playing I am in their minds. "I will just continue to try my best here and hopefully more opportunities will come, both for West Ham and then for Spain."

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Club launches West Ham Help Centre on beta release
WHUFC.com

The Club is delighted to beta release West Ham Help, a brand new service created for all Hammers fans with the aim of proactively assisting with any feedback and enquiries from our supporters.

The Help Centre is a self-service portal, available 24/7, and designed to help with as wider range of enquiries as possible. There is also an additional mechanism on the site to make contact with our Supporter Services team directly.

West Ham Help has been created to enable supporters to find the answer to their question quickly and easily, with eight categories to choose from on the homepage, Ticketing, Membership, Accessibility, Supporter Services, West Ham Store, Matchday, London Stadium and Club London.

A Most Popular Articles section is also featured on the homepage to provide supporters with a fast and effective means of accessing real-time information and current trends in feedback across our supporter base.

The evolution of West Ham Help is driven by the feedback we receive from supporters, so if you can't find the answer to your question, contact the Supporter Services team directly by selecting the 'Submit an enquiry' button in the top right of the page.

If your question is frequently asked by supporters, we'll add it to the Help Centre in order to assist fellow Hammers fans who may have a similar enquiry.

The more feedback we receive, the larger the Help Centre will become!

In addition to being able to contact Supporter Services directly via the site, contact details for the relevant department can be found at the bottom of most articles to ensure fans aren't kept waiting any longer than is necessary.

West Ham Help is now in its final development stages, so we would welcome any feedback via the Help Centre itself or to supporterservices@westhamunited.co.uk

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MY OPINION ON WEST HAM FROM A NON WEST HAM SUPPORTER
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 20 MAY 2018 AT 9:33PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @footballtyper

As I do every day, probably like most, I woke up and immediately reached for my phone to check the latest goings on from the world of Twitter. I've got notifications for Ex (@ExWHUemployee) turned on because, even though I don't support West Ham, I like to keep up to date with what's happening at as many football clubs as possible. One tweet in particular caught my eye for all the wrong reasons and it was the one concerning James Collins, known to most as Ginge.

Collins, 34, has played over 200 games for West Ham in two separate spells, with the latest being since he rejoined the club from Aston Villa back in the summer of 2012. It's a well-known fact, even to a non-West Ham fan like myself, that Ginge is West Ham through and through. I recall seeing Ex and others discussing when he recently watched an away game in with he fans, and then during the final game of the season there were chants of "sign him up" from the West Ham fans.

So, waking up and seeing the news that Ginge had been informed his contract would not be renewed by the club via email was concerning, especially after around a decade of service to the club. While the club do not owe the player a new contract, while the player has had injury problems, what the club do owe a long serving player and a man who clearly loves West Ham is respect and the decency to discuss the matter with him face to face.

Moving away from the Collins situation slightly, after enduring a poor campaign in the eyes of many, West Ham did manage to finish the season with a couple of good wins against Everton and Leicester which saw them secure 13th place in the Premier League. While this may not have been the season most expected, especially the fans, it was a positive end to the campaign in some ways.

David Moyes had been brought in by West Ham on an initial short-term deal after the club struggled in the opening stages of the campaign under Slaven Bilic. His remit was to keep West Ham in the Premier League, which he did successfully, and it did look like he would therefore stay in the role for next season too, but this has proven not to be the case. While many reasons have been cited for his exit, one of them is said to be down to leaks from inside the club and the "culture of West Ham."

I just want to point out where leaks are concerned, even though Ex releases "information" I really don't think this applies to him. As someone who does hear things from inside football clubs myself, you learn what you can and can't repeat very quickly. While there are people who hear bits hear and there and they immediately head to their social media accounts to post it, often for attention, when you have been in the ITK game a while, you learn to respect what you are told, and those telling you.

This all really got me thinking about West Ham, and as an outsider maybe it's a good place to judge as I have no emotional connection to the club. The club really does reek of unprofessionalism, and the main problem is that it starts at the very top. I remember writing an article for The West Ham Way a while ago and talking about how David Sullivan seemed to do a lot of talking, but not a lot of doing. I recall him mentioning their ability to sign big name strikers such as Alexandre Lacazette, but never delivering on it.

There have also been cases where David Sullivan has made comments to the press which have not only made him look unprofessional, classless and disrespectful, but this then puts the club in a bad light by proxy. An example of this is when he discussed Jose Fonte and claimed his kids advised him not to sign the former Southampton centre half. A club's hierarchy set the tone, and West Ham's do a very good job of setting a negative one.

It's as if the club at times are looking to take steps forward, but they seem to always shoot themselves in the foot and find themselves two paces behind once again. The search is currently on for a new manager, and with Manuel Pellegrini set for talks, this should be seen as a positive time for West Ham as Pellegrini is a very good manager with an impressive record at numerous clubs in a raft of different countries.

However, the Ginge situation in many ways could take the gloss off of his appointment, if he is indeed the man to replace the departed David Moyes. Ex has also hinted at further news that is due to break, which again doesn't sound too good. West Ham ideally need the board to take a complete step back, they need to take stock of the situation and look to not only correct mistakes but prevent them reoccurring in the future too.

While I'm neither board in, or board out, as this isn't my football club, I do feel the pain of a poorly run football club with a penchant for shooting itself in the foot repeatedly. While owners and the board of a club are well within their rights to speak publicly I would urge those at West Ham just to think before they speak, or before they type columns in newspapers. Consider the consequences before it's too late, and when it comes to transfers, less talk and more action, but leave it to the professionals.

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MANUEL PELLEGRINI: THE NEXT LEVEL
AUTHOR: KEVIN SLADE. PUBLISHED: 20 MAY 2018 AT 9:26PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk

For the first time since we left the Boleyn Ground, i'm starting to feel extremely positive with the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini now looking imminent. "Attacking football!", "European experience!", are the attributes of which our fan base are requesting from the board in the hunt for a new manager; and Manuel Pellegrini boasts the two in abundance. 'Attacking football' is what every supporter wants to see if they've paid their money to watch a game of football, right? I believe Manuel Pellegrini holds that key to unlock the shackles of our existing attack at West Ham United. Lanzini, Antonio, Arnautovic, and Javier Hernandez – are you telling me there's no goals in that attack? I've said many times before that we could have Harry Kane or Sergio Aguero playing as striker for us, they still wouldn't score goals because the link up play between the midfield and the striker was non existent. A striker relies on service, and its no coincidence that Simeone Zaza, an Italy international, who we signed from Serie A champions Juventus, has been scoring for fun since joining Valencia when he couldn't hit a barn door for us! Chicharito is another example: pushed out to the wing under Bilic, couldn't get a game under Moyes, but scored goals left, right, & center at every other club he's played for. This is a player with our best goals to games ratio we've seen at the club in years… If we can manage to keep hold of Hernandez this summer, I guarantee he will be the main man under Pellegrini and we will see the best of him.

Lanzini is a brilliant player for us on his day, but just isn't consistent enough. The final game of the season against Everton reminded us all just how good he can be when he's allowed to roam free in the attacking third and express himself. Does Pellegrini have what it takes to get the best out of Lanzini? Time will tell, but Manu is definitely Pellegrini's type of player.

Since 'The next level' is always the topic of discussion, Manuel Pellegrini is without a shadow of a doubt the managerial appointment which will live up to what is vast becoming a serial term on the lips of West Ham supporters. However, it's up to the board whether they will allow him to take us there. This is the perfect opportunity for the board to build bridges & deliver all of those hopes and promises which all ended in failure since the big transition, and that will cost money. Although Manuel has an impressive managerial record with Villarreal and Malaga, both of whom he led to European football on tight budgets, this is the Premier League and we can't afford to scrape by again for another season. Its all well & good appointing a manager with Pellegrini's CV, but without the tools & resources, he won't be able to carry out his job in bringing us to that next level. What i like about Pellegrini is he has an eye for a player in the Spanish market; Isco, Antonio Valencia, and Santi Cazorla are just three players that instantly come to mind of who he spotted, albeit some time ago now. In order for our new man to be a success, he needs to be able to do his job, his way – full control over transfers, and full backing of the board. If either of these aren't met, then it'll be groundhog day yet again in the West Ham United hot seat!

Since the news of Pellegrini has come to light, we've yet again seen a split of opinion on social media between the fan base. We didn't want Moyes, we wanted a manager that plays an attacking game with European pedigree. We've practically got that, but theres still some moaners out in full force which absolutely startles me. Does Pellegrini only possess a silver card on FIFA or something? Because i'm gobsmacked on why anybody wouldn't want a manager that has qualified for the Champions League with two different clubs on a shoe string budget, and has won the Premier League and the League cup in England! Manchester City supporters enjoyed his tenure with them, and have recently expressed that he will be the perfect fit for us if we want to progress in the Premier League.

Yaya Toure is a name that has immediately been thrown into the mix for a reunion with Pellegrini. i'd welcome Yaya Toure at West Ham with open arms, purely because he's a winner with a winning mentality which is something we've lacked since having Payet at the club. his age and wages is a concern, but having him around for just 6 months would help alot of our current players up their game – Kouyate being one of them. There's a real good feel factor at the moment, so long may it continue!

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Boleyn sold - but set to stay
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Staff Writer

The Boleyn Tavern has been sold to new owners - but is expected to remain as a public house. The popular street corner pub, situated at the junction of Green Street and Barking Road played host to many thousands of Hammers fans over the years when it was the closest pub to the Boleyn Ground. Since West Ham United moved to Stratford, the pub has struggled to remain as a going concern having lost a substantial source of income overnight. And although recent rumours incorrectly suggested it was set to close, KUMB can reveal that the pub has been acquired by Remarkable Pubs - a chain that specialises in restoring what the company refers to as "traditional boozers". Remarkable, who already run long-established, traditional venues such as The Virgin Queen in E2, the Prince George in Hackney and Harringay's Salisbury Hotel - itself not dissimilar in appearance to The Boleyn - maintain that their establishments are "are full to the rafters" and feature "great wine, even better beer and the hum of witty conversation".
So good news on the face of it for those locals and visiting Hammers fans who wish to see this well-established institution remain very much at the heart of the local community - especially since so many of its former competitors, such as the Earl of Wakefield and the Green Man have disappeared in recent years.

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West Ham to break the bank for Pellegrini
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are preparing to pay Manuel Pellegrini a higher salary than Antonio Conte or Jurgen Klopp. Conte, who won the Premier League last season and Klopp, who had led Liverpool to the final of the Champions League are believed to earn slightly less than the £10million annual salary West Ham are preparing to offer the 64-year-old Chilean to become the club's next full time manager. And according to writer Ken Dyer, the sum is more than four times the salary paid to temporary boss David Moyes, who left the club last week despite steering the Hammers to 13th spot in the Premier League. Only two Premier League managers are believed to earn more than Pellegrini will be paid as the next manager of West Ham - they being Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho, who led their teams to first and second spot in the league last season respectively. The former manager of Chinese Super League side Hebei Fortune is expected to hold talks with West Ham's co-owner David Sullivan this afternoon (Monday). Should all proceed as planned, Pellegrini should be named as West Ham's new manager within 24 hours.

West Ham are also hoping to reunite Pellegrini with Ruben Cousillas, who has worked as Pellegrini's assistant since they first teamed up at San Lorenzo more than 20 years ago. Meanwhile Eduardo Macia, 44 - who is currently at Leicester and previously worked with Rafa Benitez at Liverpool - is understood to have been recommended by Pellegrini for the newly-created Director of Football role.

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Fans' favourite keen to stay
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Staff Writer

Popular goalkeeper Adrian has revealed that he wants to extend his stay at West Ham. The Spanish goalkeeper has frequently been linked with a return to former club Real Betis since initially being dropped by David Moyes for on-loan 'keeper Joe Hart. However having fended off the challenge of former England international Hart and regained his place in the starting XI, a candid Adrian insists that he wants to remain at West Ham and cement that first team slot. I like to play, I like to enjoy playing and I want to be the number one, but I have to deserve it as well," he told whufc.com. "This past season for me has been a bit disappointing and frustrating at times, but I have one more year on my contract and we will see more when the season has finished. I hope that I can continue to show I am here to help West Ham. "I enjoy it here and I want to keep enjoying it. The West Ham fans welcomed me with open arms from day one and I feel their love every time that I play. I'm only 31 and feel that I want to play as many games as possible because I am at an age when I need to play."

And although he felt disappointed at having been overlooked for the Spanish World Cup squad - something that he feels was not helped by sitting on the bench for West Ham at times - Adrian believes he still has time to make a mark at international level. "It's too late for the World Cup because I didn't play enough games, but I know that when I am playing I am in their minds," he surmised. "I will just continue to try my best here and hopefully more opportunities will come for West Ham and Spain."

Adrian joined West Ham on a free transfer in the summer of 2013, initially signing a two year deal with the option of a further two years. In 2015 when he was awarded an identical 'two plus two' contract, with the additional two-year clause triggered by West Ham last summer.

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Close but no cigar
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Staff Writer

West Ham's youngsters were just one step away from taking silverware at the weekend's Hong Kong Soccer Sevens tournament. The Hammers - who entered the competition as reigning champions following their 2017 success - ended up as beaten Shield finalists after a weekend of mixed results, in which they qualified from the group phase as runners-up in Group A before losing to Glasgow Rangers (winners of Group C) in the main competition's semi final.

That left West Ham chasing a trophy in the Shield competition by way of consolation and having beaten Brighton comfortably, it were looking promising. However Aston Villa, who always perform strongly in the HK7s narrowly edged out the Hammers to take the trophy.

The main competition was won by Newcastle Utd, who beat West Ham's semi final conquerors Rangers 1-0 in the Final.

Hong Kong Soccer Sevens 2018

Group A Results
West Ham Utd 2-0 Yau Yee League Select
West Ham Utd 0-3 Kashima Antlers
West Ham Utd 1-0 Wellington Phoenix

Group A Table
1. Kashima Antlers 3-9
2. West Ham Utd 3-6
3. Wellington Phoenix 3-3
4. Yau Yee League Select 3-0

Quarter Final
Rangers 2-0 West Ham Utd

Shield Semi Final
West Ham Utd 3-0 Brighton

Shield Final
Aston Villa 2-1 West Ham Utd

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SOSC to take legal action
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Staff Writer

The Save Our Supporters' Club campaign have announced plans to take legal action against the current Supporters' Club's Executive Committee to prevent its dissolution. A Special General Meeting, held at the Bolyn Pub on Sunday lunchtime ended in farce after 43 members were refused entry to the meeting and subsequently prevented from voting. And as a result, the SOSC have announced that they will be seeking legal advice in order to prevent the existing Committee from closing the club and sharing the proceeds of the sale between them. The vote for dissolution of the West Ham United Supporters Club under clause 32 of the Club's constitution went ahead earlier today," read a statement realsed by SOSC on Sunday evening. "The Club's Executive Committee did not allow 43 of the Club's fully paid up, verified members to attend the vote. The Executive Committee who have made a series of unfounded claims against the validity of their membership, sanctioned a vote of 18 for and 6 against to dissolve the club. "The committee of the SOSC then arranged an impromptu meeting of the members unscrupulously denied admittance to the dissolution vote and have agreed to take legal action against the Executive Committee to safeguard the Supporters Club Institution and the assets of the club."
It was also confirmed that whilst the legal wrangling continues, the Supporters Club will continue to be hosted at Stour Space, a stone's throw from the club's new Stratford ground. "Memberships, which will allow access to the successful Supporters Club Matchday Bar at Stour Space for the forthcoming season, will now be opened and fees received will be used to take the legal fight onwards," continued the SOSC's staement. "Your SOSC committee will continue to fight against this injustice and we look forward to receiving your continued support."

KUMB member Eltham Hammer was one of the 43 members denied access to Sunday's meeting. "The WHUSC Committee, which ran and owns the old club in Castle Street (plus has other assets) is looking to wind it up, sell all the assets and then distribute it between specific members," he told KUMB. "They've laid down what seem to be very arbitrary rules about who actually is a qualifying member that contradict previous rules and regulations. The current WHUSC committee seem to have forgotten that they are custodians of an institution for the supporters. "They are trying to cheat the members out of the use of the assets that have been accumulated over a number of years and they want to make anybody who wants to continue the club to do so without the existing assets - which will become money in their pocket, if the dissolution happens. "The committee of WHUSC are also arguing that anyone who signed up at Stour Space didn't sign up to be a full member of WHUSC. So its not just a case of trying to save the building in Castle St, it's about saving the entity and helping it get a new permanent home in Stratford."

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Pellegrini agrees three-year contract
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Staff Writer

Manuel Pellegrini is set to be named as the new head coach of West Ham United after agreeing a three-year contract with the club. The 64-year-old met the club's co-owner David Sullivan this afternoon and agreed to become the club's 16th full-time manager, following the recently-departed David Moyes. The Chilean is set to earn an incredible £30million during the course of his contract, having agreed a salary in the region of £10million per year. He has also been promised full control of recruitment. West Ham are expected to confirm Pellegrini's appointment within the next 48 hours, once lawyers representing each party have completed the necessary paperwork.

West Ham United: previous managers

16. David Moyes (2017-18)
15. Slaven Bilic (2015-17)
14. Sam Allardyce (2011-15)
13. Avram Grant (2010-11)
12. Franco Zola (2008-10)
11. Alan Curbishley (2006-08)
10. Alan Pardew (2003-06)
9. Glenn Roeder (2001-03)
8. Harry Redknapp (1994-01)
7. Billy Bonds (1990-94)
6. Lou Macari (1989-90)
5. John Lyall (1974-89)
4. Ron Greenwood (1961-74)
3. Ted Fenton (1950-61)
2. Charlie Paynter (1932-50)
1. Syd King (1902-32)

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WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM PELLEGRINI?
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 21 MAY 2018 AT 9:11PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @kaz7289

So after our most recent car crash of a season, now is the time for a fresh start, new ideas and a new sense of optimism. The first hurdle is obviously the manager and will obviously be a huge indication of what direction we will be going in and whether the fans get on board or not. So it seems one is now all but officially done reasonably early on in ex Real Madrid and Man City manager, Manuel Pellegrini. Pellegrini is a massive step in the right direction doing fantastic jobs at both Manchester City and Real Madrid winning multiple trophies in the process but also the less talked about incredible work he done at Malaga and Villarael turning lower mid table clubs in to Champions league clubs winning more trophies and going on long European runs in the process.

What can we expect from Pellegrini if he is appointed? I think we can expect an experienced manager who demands respect, quality total football and hard work from the players. He usually plays 4-2-3-1 or a 4-4-2 (of sorts) but isn't afraid to adapt. He likes attacking players that are fast, defend from the front and can pass and can hold on to the ball, Usually has his full backs stretching the opposition and creating space which his midfielders and/or fast tricky wingers can move or pass into. He usually plays with tall physical strikers (ie Rondon, Negredo and Jovetic most noticeably in the past) whom are strong, good in the air (where set pieces are pivotal to his style), can play on the ground, good reading of the game and can finish but again this can adapt as he has also used smaller strikers like Rossi and Aguero who still don't lack in the physical part but have that extra pace which can kill teams. I'd like to see Hernandez get another go as he is the best finisher we have had and cried out for in years but needs to work harder off the ball. Pellegrini's approach to attacking football could help get the most out of the likes of Lanzini and Arnautovic, whilst maybe actually trying to kill off games instead of sitting deep and watching the inevitable happen. Now although he does appear to focus on attack more than defence he does rely heavily on his defenders especially in opposition counter attacks where they need to be quick, strong and read the game well. He normally plays with centre backs that can pass and play from the back with quick well rounded full backs. Rice, Og and Masuaku fit the bill perfectly, under the right management should thrive imo.

What sort of players could we expect to be brought in? (So this is purely guess work based on Pellegrini's past and a few names I'd like to see come in) I do feel like Arnautovic, Lanzini, Ogbonna, Rice, Masuaku and potentially Obiang (if they can stay fit) could have key rolls next season leaving us to focus on a younger more energetic right back, someone to partner Arnie up front, a physical central midfielder who can pass, a fast tricky winger, Hart replacement and maybe even a set piece specialist.

In right back someone that's been linked in Fredericks could defo be an option and something we haven't had in a while with his pace and work rates.

In midfield I have a feeling we could be seeing Yaya or as I like to call it, "a Sully wet dream". With him playing in a crucial part for Pellegrini before, ex team mates with Zaba and perhaps the sort of midfielder we've been crying out for it would be a big coup on "a free" if the wages come down (a lot). Someone else I'd like who'd perhaps be a younger option is Shelvey who supports the club, big and physical but also knows how to split a team with his passing and can add goals from midfield.

Up front another name that will probably be doing the rounds (if Pellegrini is appointed) is Rondon, he played a huge part under Pellegrini at Malaga, scoring a goal nearly every 2 games. He's fast, physical and can finish playing for recently relegated WBA, we could get him in for a cut price fee. Balotelli another one on a free now who's most recently torn France apart earning him a call up back to Italy and friends with Arnautovic. They could be the most "basterdry" duo we've ever had upfront! I'd personally like to see a Vardy type of player alongside Arnautovic whose fast, strong can finish, excellent reading of the game and just the complete player in the name of Josef Martinez (research him).

On the wing I think Adama Traore would be an exceptional signing with Boro in the Championship and him at just 22 yo there is still time to develop and has dramatically improved this season under Pulis. He has most dribbles and take ons in Europe and is incredibly fast but is improving in other areas now too, I think with players like Lanzini and Arnautovic around him he will thrive and cause defenders chaos.

I feel like we need a "creator", Our set pieces and distribution in general have been poor even resulted in giving other teams goals on the counter and shows just how crucial it is to the game. We miss Payet big time and although it will be hard to replace him we need someone who can make things happen, create chances, take set pieces and whip in a ball from the left again. Any suggestions let me know!

Thanks for reading, sorry if it was a bit rushed but I have been busy so thought I'd get all my thoughts about the potential appointment in one article instead of clogging up your timeline with my tweets. Let me know your thoughts! @kaz7289

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Manuel Pellegrini set to be best-paid West Ham boss as deal nears
By Kaveh Solhekol
Last Updated: 21/05/18 4:44pm
SSN

Manuel Pellegrini looks set to become the highest-paid manager in West Ham's history if, as expected, he joins the club in the next 48 hours. Pellegrini will be taking a significant pay cut, however, having been earning around £16m a year in China. Sky Sports News understands lawyers are still working on the final drafts of West Ham's offer to the 64-year-old, who left his job with Hebei China Fortune over the weekend and flew into London. The former Manchester City title-winning manager is due to meet co-owners David Sullivan, David Gold and vice-chairman Karren Brady later on Monday. Sky Sports News reported last week the Hammers were closing in on Pellegrini despite retaining an interest in long-term target and Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez. Pellegrini has been a leading candidate to replace David Moyes, after the Chilean took Manchester City to the title in 2013-14. He began his managerial career in South America and winning national leagues in four different countries. He has been in charge of Villarreal, Real Madrid and Malaga in Spain.

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Reece Oxford confirms West Ham return after loan spell in Germany
The Hammers teenager will be heading back to London after he has been on holiday
Football London
By Sam Inkersole West Ham Correspondent
20:15, 21 MAY 2018

West Ham teenager Reece Oxford has confirmed he will be heading back to West Ham this summer after his loan spell in Germany with Borussia Monchengladbach came to an end. Oxford spent two spells on the continent this season, having been recalled to the capital in January when David Moyes was able to bring him back and made a couple of appearances in the FA Cup in claret and blue. However, he was hampered by an injury and we barely saw anything of what the 19-year-old can offer before it was agreed he could head bach to Gladbach for the remainder of the campaign. It wasn't the best of spells for the defender, who was seemingly wanted permanently by the Germans and another Bundesliga side in RB Leipzig, who both made offers for the player in January but were turned down and he was recalled to England. Writing on Instagram, Oxford said: "My time at Borussia Monchengclacbach has come to an end and I would like to thank all the staff players & fans for supporting me & making me feel so welcome. "I've enjoyed my time and have some good memories that will stick with me. "I wish everyone at the club all the best for the future."
Oxford made only eight appearances for Gladbach during his time in east London but made quite an impression as sporting director Max Eberl reiterated consistently that he'd like to sign the youngster permanently. However, it appears that a deal will not be forthcoming as the player has confirmed he will be heading back to London once he has finished his end of season holiday. Oxford has three years remaining on his four-and-a-half year contract he signed when he turned 18 in east London.

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Pellegrini recommended Rondon to West Brom; West Ham move makes perfect sense
HITC
Olly Dawes

West Ham United are reportedly set to appoint Manuel Pellegrini as their new boss. Less than a week since parting ways with David Moyes, West Ham United are poised to confirm their new manager in Manuel Pellegrini. The Guardian report that Pellegrini is the man called upon to replace Moyes, with the Chilean allegedly set to pen a three-year deal worth £10million-a-year in a blockbuster deal. Pellegrini will inherit a poorly-balanced and underperforming West Ham squad, and he will no doubt get to work quickly on lining up new signings to boost his chances next season. With Andy Carroll's future never certain and Jordan Hugill already a forgotten man just months after arriving from Preston North End, another physical striker may be targeted to lead the West Ham attack alongside Marko Arnautovic. With that in mind, a move to reunite Pellegrini with West Bromwich Albion striker Salomon Rondon would make sense, after the pair worked together in Spain with Malaga. Rondon, now 28, hit 22 goals in 60 goals under Pellegrini before leaving Malaga for Rubin Kazan in 2012, and the Venezuelan found his way to the Premier League with West Brom in 2015. As reported by the Daily Mail, Pellegrini – then in charge of City – recommended Rondon to Premier League rivals West Brom, heaping praise on the striker to convince the Baggies to sign him. Rondon has blown hot and cold, but did hit 10 goals in all competitions last season, and with relegation to the Championship confirmed, Rondon may jump at the chance to return to the Premier League. The Telegraph reported last month that West Ham wanted Rondon thanks to his £16.5million release clause, and with Pellegrini now calling the shots at the London Stadium, that move would not be a surprise at all.

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Sullivan's biggest gamble yet
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st May 2018
By: Paul Walker

As gambles go, bringing in Manuel Pellegrini is pretty high up there as far as West Ham owner David Sullivan is concerned.

Under intense pressure to make a significant appointment as manager, and as quick as possible with the transfer window already up and running, Sullivan has gone for broke by bringing in the 64-year-old former Real Madrid and Manchester City chief.

Pellegrini has now agreed a three-year deal, with the finer points being sorted out by the lawyers.
　
For Sullivan, an owner not known for throwing cash around, bringing in Pellegrini with wages between £7m and £10m a year - depending on which source you read - could even smack of panic here.

Any other candidates would have taken time to install. Paulo Fonseca used us to get an improved deal at Shakhtar Donetsk, Rafa Benitez can't make his mind up and will get a better deal at Newcastle, the likes of David Wagner at Huddersfield is getting a better deal there... and so it goes on.

Sullivan hasn't got that amount of time. The longer it continues without a replacement for David Moyes, the longer the shambles and chaos of last term will spread into the close season, with the transfer window closing on August 9.

You sense, too, that Sullivan's actions these past days suggest he has taken control of the club, intent on getting something big done. He has ignored, we are told, the advice of David Gold and Karren Brady to give Moyes a further contract.

Now we know that Moyes was dragging things out, looking to milk the situation for a better deal, having held fire on a suggested contract seemingly offered a few weeks back. Sullivan was ruthlessly having none of that.

So he has gone for broke. The appointment of Pellegrini certainly ticks the boxes of fan power, who wanted someone to play attacking football more in keeping with our supposed traditions (last seen, if I recall correctly, in the days of the Harry Redknapp/Billy Bonds reign).

But, and there's always a but with West Ham, is Pellegrini's pedigree now too far behind him to be relevant? Yes, he has had a fine managerial career and is by far the most qualified and decorated (in terms of football achievements) manager we have ever employed.

But the nagging question is, did the Chilean move to China for the vast amounts of silly money - or because he could not find a post in Europe in keeping with what he had become accustomed?

It is believed he was on £400,000 a week to manage Hebei China Fortune, that's over £20million a year, and now he is back in English football likely to be paid more than everyone in the Premier League apart from Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola.

So Sullivan has found that this is the cost to placate fans pretty fed-up with two dreadful seasons at the London Stadium, and threatening more unrest next term if things don't start being done to their liking.

It's pretty obvious now that Sullivan is riding solo here; Gold looks to have been sidestepped, and not in the loop when he suggested Moyes should be re-hired less than 24 hours before Sullivan put the boot into the former Everton man, who was more than upset with the way he was treated.

Brady, too, wanted Moyes, although we are also being told she had earlier suggested Sean Dyche, who just happens to be represented by the agency that her husband Paul Peschisolido works for!

That is now water under the bridge. Sullivan is giving the fans that bit of glamour, excitement and quality that a manager of Pellegrini's esteem can bring. More to the point, we are being told that Pellegrini will have no interference from the board on transfers, and Sullivan will step into the background.

We will all, I reckon, be more than happy with that but believe that when we see it.

Rumour had it that Sullivan was recommending players to Moyes in January that nobody had scouted or even heard of, so Pellegrini should not drop his guard for a second.

He will have almost certainly his former Manchester City and Hebei assistant, Ruben Cousillas, alongside him, with the likelihood of Eduardo Macia as his new head of recruitment. Interesting guy this, he has been at Leicester City of late but worked extensively with Benitez at Liverpool from 2006.

He has also done a similar job at Real Betis, Fiorentina and Olympiacos, and is also believed to be the man Sullivan eluded to during the season as being keen on moving to West Ham.

There are several backroom appointments on the fitness and medical staff to be sorted, one being a replacement for head of fitness Nick Davies, who left this month. He was previously with Norwich and a recommendation from Alan Irvine, who was also boss at Norwich.

The big question, though, is whether Pellegrini can replicate his achievements firstly in Spain and then with Manchester City, where he won the Premier League in 2013-14. Some of that is a long while ago, is he still as hungry or is this just another massive pay day?

But you can't argue with his Spanish career. With Villareal from 2004-09, he finished third, seventh, fifth, second and fifth in La Liga, taking them to the Champions League semi-finals. Then there was a spell at Real Madrid when he missed the title by three points to Barcelona despite 96 points and 100 goals. After being axed there he complained about the club not buying the players he wanted, just the Gallacticos.

Malaga followed, from 2010-13, finishing 11th, fourth and sixth, with more European success at a club who have just been relegated, and never really recovered from being punished for breaking financial fair play rules.

Then came Manchester City, a title and two league cups. He calmed the troubled waters following the exit of the impossibly difficult Roberto Mancini. It started well but the final year of his three seasons there was progressively ruined by the knowledge that he was going to be replaced by Guardiola.

Everyone knew it, and the players lacked motivation and at some point even fitness, Sami Nasri being a particular culprit. But City were good enough to beat us 9-0 on aggregate in a league cup semi-final, a depressing embarrassment many of us who witnessed both legs have failed to erase from our memory.

He was labelled "The Charming Man", taken from a song by Manchester band The Smiths, which was not truly accurate. In his final months he was considered charmless, frustrated and full of pent-up rage. Maybe knowing he was going played a part.

Then he was off to China, the land where managers, coaches and players go to be forgotten. Looking at his squad there, the vast majority were Chinese with a couple of Spanish imports. He clearly wanted to come home to Europe.

Now he has to turn West Ham around, taking the heat off Sullivan in the process. Clearly he will have his own players coming in to play his favoured 4-3-3, with Yaya Toure seemingly high on his list. And he may well have enough charm and stature to keep Manu Lanzini, Adrian and Javier Hernandez happy, while maybe finding a role for James Collins and acquiring Joao Mario. Who knows?

But we will all be optimistic, believing that there is a rainbows end even in Stratford. How much will he have to spend, likewise, who knows?

There is the little matter of FFP which everyone tends to forget these days. We are in the final season of a three-year cycle where clubs can add £7million to their previous season's budget plus any income generated from the commercial side. I fail to see that being over £100million, so players will be sold.

Welcome to east London, Manuel, we are all praying for you to succeed.

Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be attributed to, KUMB.com.

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West Ham handing Manuel Pellegrini control of transfers is smart move
HITC
Jordan Harris

West Ham United are reportedly ready to hand Manuel Pellegrini the chance to have full control over the club's transfer policy. According to a report from the Guardian, West Ham are on the verge of appointing Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager and David Sullivan is ready to step back from transfers and hand the Chilean full control over the club's recruitment. It is a major show of faith in the former Manchester City boss, and based on the Hammers' transfer record in recent years, it appears to be one of the smartest moves that the club could make. It is difficult to know who was responsible for each transfer that has taken place at the London Stadium and Upton Park previously, but the record is certainly extremely mixed. For every Marko Arnautovic, there is a Patrice Evra and Jordan Hugill - and the Austrian seemingly needed a change of manager to avoid being placed into the transfer flop category. It has arguably been an underwhelming record for a number of years and their most recent summer window helped almost put them in serious danger of being relegated to the Championship this past season.
Pellegrini has not got everything right during his managerial career, but he has experience of elevating sides and winning honours having signed several exciting players along the way. That not only suggests that he will have a good grasp of which players to target in the market, but it should also help convince marquee names that West Ham is a club that is progressing and can compete in the latter stages of cup competitions while maintaining a solid league position.
After a campaign where many of the fans clearly grew tired of what was happening at their club, handing control of transfers to a marquee manager like Pellegrini is undoubtedly a positive step. Now the owners must make sure that they back the 64-year-old when he produces a list of targets for the Irons this summer.

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West Ham agree Manuel Pellegrini deal worth up to £7m a year
Jason Burt, chief football correspondent
21 MAY 2018 • 6:51PM
Telegraph

Manuel Pellegrini has agreed a deal to take over as manager of West Ham United worth up to £7 million-a-year including bonuses. An announcement will be made this week.

The 64-year-old Chilean will be the highest-paid manager in West Ham's history, earning more than twice the amount paid to his predecessors, with a £5m-a-year basic salary. Bonuses will be paid on top of that, including one for qualification for European competition.

Pellegrini flew to London on Sunday and was given a tour of West Ham's London Stadium and the club's training facilities before agreeing terms with co-owner David Sullivan, whom he knows.

The length of the deal has not been confirmed but it is understood to be for up to three years with West Ham pleased that Pellegrini signalled his desire to join them by quitting Chinese club, Hebei China Fortune.

West Ham do not have to pay any compensation for Pellegrini and had been been concerned at the £6m Newcastle United would have been due if they agreed to release Rafael Benítez. The Spaniard was not necessarily West Ham's first-choice – they had made it clear they wanted to speak to Pellegrini and others.

Last week it was suggested by senior sources at West Ham that a shortlist of four high-calibre, trophy-winning managers had been drawn up. Whether the club actually got to speak to all four of the managers is a moot point but that list was Pellegrini, Benítez, Paulo Fonseca, who did meet with Sullivan but who subsequently agreed a new contract at Shakhtar Donetsk, and Unai Emery who has been sacked by Paris Saint-Germain and would like to move to the Premier League rather than return to Spain.

Another option beyond that list was Claudio Ranieri who has left French club Nantes, but he was regarded only as an outside possibility.

West Ham believe the salary they are paying Pellegrini represents the going rate for a manager of his experience – all the other candidates were expecting the same level of remuneration following the departure of David Moyes after his short-term, incentivised contract expired.

Moyes had hoped to stay on but wanted an overhaul of the way West Ham operated, not least when it comes to the recruitment of players. However it became obvious that the club wanted to speak to other managers and with Moyes out of contract the decision was taken that he should move on. The appointment of Moyes also felt like a short-term fix to suit both parties and the Scot will hope after his work at West Ham that he will get another Premier League job.

West Ham still have to replace Tony Henry, who was sacked as head of recruitment, and there have been suggestions that they are interested in Malaga's Mario Husillas or Leicester City's Eduardo Macia. Both are known to Pellegrini. It remains to be seen how much control any replacement is given and it is unlikely they will hire a director of football at this time.

Pellegrini has spent two years in China after leaving Manchester City where, in three seasons, he won the Premier League title in 2014 and took the club to the Champions League semi-finals. He also won the League Cup twice.

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FERDINAND DELIVERS VERDICT ON PELLEGRINIFeatured Image
Date: 21st May 2018 at 5:53pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
ForeverWestHam

Rio Ferdinand delivered a positive verdict on Manuel Pellegrini's reportedly imminent arrival and revealed what West Ham needed in the process.

The BT Sports pundit and former Hammers defender praised the former Manchester City boss' CV but suggested that it was different kettle of fish being in charge of the Hammers.

"Listen he's got pedigree, someone who is actually been at big clubs, managed big players, big personality, so he has got the main ingredients to take care of people in that sense," said Ferdinand in an interview with talkSPORT's Ian Abrahams, uploaded to SoundCloud.

"But whether he can do it at West Ham, it's a different kettle of fish, different proposition there.

"It's a club that needs some guidance, needs someone leading from the front to give that message across, translated from the players to the fans what's going.

"There needs to be a strategy to be worked out at the club."

Claret and Hugh, the reliable Hammers news site, reported on Monday that the Hammers could appoint Manuel Pellegrini as their next manager within the next 48 hours.

OPINION

Ferdinand certainly knows the Hammers well, having risen through the club's youth system all the way to featuring in the first-team. The current BT Sports pundit knows the expectations surrounding the club and what a manager must do in order to make supporters happy, aside from the obvious. It's nice to hear Ferdinand issue such a positive verdict on Pellegrini, even if he suggests doing well as manager at the Hammers is different compared to other clubs. Hopefully the experienced manager is the one arriving at the London Stadium shortly to sit in the dugout as all signs suggest he will be a success at the club. However only time will tell as it's hard to know whether any manager will be successful in the Premier League at this point, even if they've achieved success in the past. While Pellegrini may have won England's top-flight with Manchester City, every season the league evolves to be a different challenge and the manager will have to adapt to some changes that have occurred during his time away.

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HERNANDEZ COULD STAY FOLLOWING PELLEGRINI ARRIVALFeatured Image
Date: 21st May 2018 at 5:42pm
Written by: Wayne Howard
ForeverWestHam

Javier Hernandez is in line to remain at West Ham following the imminent appointment of Manuel Pellegrini, according to the Evening Standard.

The newspaper claim the Mexico international looked "certain" to quit London Stadium this summer after slipping down the pecking order under ex-boss David Moyes.

The Standard report that Pellegrini, who's set to be confirmed as the new manager, could be instrumental in a shock U-turn for Hernandez due to his desire for a more attacking style of play.

OPINION

It would certainly represent a major shock were Hernandez to return for a second season with the Hammers. The first did not go well for the goal poacher, even though his return of eight goals from 33 matches – all of them in the Premier League – was far from disastrous. Moyes preferred a more powerful spearhead who could play with his back to goal, something that has never suited Hernandez, whose game is based on artful dodging in and around the penalty box. Given Hernandez's one-dimensional style and astronomical wage packet (Spotrac report that his £140,000-a-week salary comfortably makes him the club's top earner), West Ham would be better off cashing in on him at a time when he could still yield a decent fee. He has scored goals throughout his career and has a sensational international record of 49 from 100 appearances, but he turns 30 in June and his best days are behind him. Pellegrini would be better off sourcing a more rounded front man.

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WHUISA RESPONSE TO BRADY'S NEWSPAPER COLUMN
By Dan Coker 21 May 2018 at 09:00
WTID

WHUISA Chair Mark Walker pens a reply to Karren Brady's newspaper column

After our home defeat to Burnley in March, when a few supporters invaded the pitch and others protested angrily under the Directors' Box, our Chairman David Sullivan called for unity. His reasoning was that the team couldn't survive if the fans were at war with the Club. Supporters could see the sense in that and an uneasy truce followed. We more than upheld our end of the bargain, put our lack of faith in the current board to one side and rallied behind the team as we limped over the line with the joint worst defensive record in the division.

And then that truce was broken, not by fans, but by Karren Brady. Her latest column took a side swipe at fans by blaming the largely self-induced problems at the London Stadium on "malcontents and keyboard warriors". We are struggling to understand how fans expressing legitimate criticism can be held to blame for the stadium being unsuitable for football, or for the substandard stewarding, the lack of adequate policing, the mediocre catering or the way the whole move was mis-sold to supporters.

For some time now, Brady has appeared focused on her own brand ahead of West Ham, even inviting her Twitter followers to watch her new TV programme which was showing at the same time we were kicking off a vital televised home game against Stoke. Her part-time role at West Ham still commands just shy of a million pounds a year, yet her business interests away from West Ham continue to expand.

Her column managed to directly impact the team in January when Leicester refused to do business with us, and instead loaned Islam Slimani to relegation rivals Newcastle. This came as a result of ill-judged suggestions she made around the firing of Claudio Ranieri. Those comments caused the club reputational damage and unnecessarily hampered January's recruitment efforts.

We are fed up of being treated dismissively when the club's situation is crying out for dedicated leadership. Characterising that reasonable criticism as abuse misses the mark by a mile. WHUISA completely condemns personal abuse of any kind. We are proud that our club employs women in leading positions and has a Ladies team that has been all-conquering this year. But that does not mean that Karren Brady's statements should escape criticism when it's due.

It was not West Ham fans who spoke of the Champions League and then assembled a team that spent just one day of this season in the top half of the table. The stadium is a huge problem and will only be solved by working closely with WHUISA and other fan groups to address the concerns of supporters. We, after all, represent the only people that actually pay to be there. Giving up this unnecessary and damaging column might help Karren to focus less on Brand Brady and more on West Ham United.

Mark Walker

Chair – West Ham United Independent Supporters Association

WHUISA has launched a petition calling on Karren Brady to give up her Saturday newspaper column. You can sign the petition by clicking here.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BradySunColumn

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