FT - Ipswich 0-0 West Ham United
WHUFc.com
West Ham United continued their pre-season schedule with a 0-0 draw at
Ipswich Town on Wednesday
16.07.2014
IPSWICH TOWN v WEST HAM UNITD
PRE-SEASON MATCH
PORTMAN ROAD
WEDNESDAY 16 JULY 2014
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: DARREN DEADMAN
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Full time: Ipswich Town 0-0 West Ham United
FT: Not a second of added time is played as referee Darren Deadman ends
proceedings with the scoresheet still blank. The first half provided chances
for both sides, and the Hammers went as close as possible without scoring
when Cresswell struck the woodwork. In truth, the game lost a bit of its
sparkle after the break, but another useful run-out for the Hammers, against
a higher class of opposition from Saturday.
It's New Zealand next on the agenda for Big Sam's men and we'll be there to
bring you every kick from the Football United tour. See you then!
83: Vaz Te is in the thick of the action again and he has a wonderful chance
to notch from 10 yards as McCallum does well to get around the back and pull
across, but he can't get the right direction on his shot and it passes wide
of the right hand post.
82: Sub Lletget is fouled 30 yards out, but Vaz Te is not put off by the
distance from goal as he sends a searing, dipping effort just over the bar
and brushing the roof ot the net as it flies past a relieved Bialkowski's
fingertips.
78: Mauro Zarate's first run-out in a Hammers shirt has come to an end, as
he makes way for Paul McCallum up front.
77: The crowd had just been announced as 8,976 with 1,920 having made their
way up from east London for this one. Great support once again from the
claret and blue army!
75: Kevin Nolan provokes the ire of the home crowd by chasing down a
backpass to Bialkowski, sliding in and catching the keeper as he slams
clear. He's up quickly and it's all forgotten over a handshake. Might have
been a booking in a competitive game, that.
72: What a smart stop that is from Ipswich keeper Bialkowski. It looks for
all the world that Lletget is about to give the Hammers the lead when his
swings his left foot at a shot from 15 yards, but the home glovesman sticks
up an arm and diverts the ball away with a strong wrist. Still, but can we
build on that over the last 15 minutes or so?
69: As I say that, Cullen gives the ball away in midfield, allowing Murphy
to break on the Hammers backline. The Academy player does a great job of
atoning for his error by sprinting back into his own box to clear the
eventual cross behind with an expertly-timed diving header.
68: Halfway through the second period now and it's fair to say this half
hasn't matched the first for entertainment value. Little in the way of
goalmouth action since the interval, but the Hammers defence, which includes
a couple of youngsters has remained untroubled.
66: That breakthrough almost came straight away though as O'Brien dinks a
cross into the area and Lletget arches his back and stretches his neck
muscles to forces a header towards goal. It slides a foot wide of the mark
though as Bialkowski watches it wide.
65: A good spell of possession from the Hammers ends with O'Brien
overlapping around Vaz Te and sending in a cross which is blocked away for a
corner. Vaz Te's flag kick fizzes through the area, but Ipswich clear and we
still await the breakthrough.
62: The corner comes in from the right hand side and Luke Chambers finds
himself in a pocket of space, but he can't keep his header under the
crossbar and West Ham escape. The Ipswich man should have done better there
really.
61: Play swings to the other end and Chambers is required to head over his
own bar after a testing cross comes over from the right hand side.
60: Neat interplay on the edge of the box gives Seb Lletget a shooting
chance as he clips the ball over the defender's foot before shooting
goalwards. The effort lacks real purchase though and Ipswich stopper
Bialkowski gets right behind it.
55: That's a corner for Ipswich down the right hand side and although the
Hammers head clear, Veseli is there 25 yards out to control and volley
towards goal. The shot has some dip on it, but it comes too late and the
ball flies over the top.
54: Not a great deal to report so far in the second period as this set of 22
players get used to the pace of the game. The Hammers have a few youngsters
on show now. Leo Chambers and Seb Lletget featured in cup games for the
Hammers last term, but this is a relatively new experience for both Lewis
Page and Josh Cullen, who have never played a competitive game for the first
team.
51: It's the hosts who have the first sight of goal of the second period as
Murphy bursts towards the box and fires for goal, but Chambers is there to
make the block.
49: Ipswich have also made wholesale changes and their second half line-up
is Bialkowski, Parr, Chambers, Smith, Wyatt, Anderson. Hyam, Veseli, Tabb,
Murphy, Taylor
46: We're back underway here at Portman Road and it's a totally different
line-up for the Hammers. Now we have Adrian in goal, O'Brien, Chambers, Reid
and Page across the back. Cullen, Nolan and Poyet are across the middle,
with Vaz Te and Lletget wide to suport Zarate up top.
HT: The whistle goes for the break and it remains 0-0 at Portman Road. Both
sides have had chances though, with Cresswell striking the bar and Diame
having a shot deflected just wide for the Hammers. At the other end Marriott
dragged a shot just past the post with Nouble lurking at the far post.
Neither keeper has been beaten yet, so hopefully we can break the deadlock
soon! Join us in 15 minutes for the second period, with a host of changes
expected.
43: Ipswich think they have a chance to break as the ball is cleared out of
their box, but James Tomkins steps in to win possession back for the
visitors. He gives the ball to Noble, whose lofted through ball picks out
Jarvis. He looks to bend the ball into the far corner, but can't get the
whip on his shot and it rolls tamely into keeper Gerken's hands.
40: The tempo has dropped slightly as half-time approaches, but there's been
plenty to entertain so far. The only thing we're lacking right now is a
goal!
36: Neat passing from the Hammers on the edge of the area between Noble,
Kouyate and Jarvis. However it gets a bit crowded as Jarvis tries to work it
back into Cole and Ipswich manage to get the ball clear.
34: Left back to left back as Cresswell crosses teasingly from the left, and
with Carlton Cole bearing down on the delivery, Ipswich defender Mings dives
in to head behind. A top clearance from the home man. West Ham then work the
corner short and Noble curls wide from 20 yards.
32: Ipswich have looked slightly more threatening in the last five minutes
and they win a corner down he right, which Stewart delivers. However, Demel
is there to head both his initial corner, and follow up cross away. Strong
stuff in the air from the Ivorian.
29: West Ham respond with a great chance of their own as Noble gets into a
fantastic position down the right and cuts back low. Diame's shot looks
destined for the net, but a defender gets a telling touch on it to divert
just past the post.
26: The chance of the game so far and it falls to Ipswich. Kouyate comes
back towards his own goal to tackle Skuse, but in doing so he diverts the
ball into Marriott's path. He runs and and beats Collins, allowing him to
advance into the area and shoot for goal. He opts to go across Jaaskelainen,
but drags his effort slightly, missing both the far post and Nouble, who
dived in trying to convert. Still 0-0.
22: The opening chapter to this game has been an entertaining one, despite
the lack goals. Ipswich have got into promising positions on a couple of
occasions, but it is the Hammers who are creating the better opportunities,
with the left hand side providing a particularly fruitful source of
ammunition at present.
21: It's Ipswich's turn to attack and a low ball from the left finds Stewart
in a really good position, but his attempt at a sidefooted shot only cannons
into his teammate Nouble and bounces away.
20: Downing feeds the ball into Cole's feet and goes for the return to shoot
with his right foot from outside the box. His effort is not on target though
and Gerken can watch it wide.
17: More joy down that left hand side as Jarvis spreads the ball out to
Diame on the touchline. He slows his pace down before speeding up to get
past Hewitt, but his cross is a shade too deep and Downing can't get the
ball under his spell. Ipswich can't really cope with the Hammers down this
nearside flank at present.
14: Now even closer from Cresswell! Once more the Hammers threat comes down
the left hand side as Jarvis tricks his way inside and past his man. He then
passes to Cresswell, whose audacious chip beats home keeper Gerken but
crashes off the face of the crossbar. So close to a goal on his old home
pitch.
12: A whisker away from Downing at the other end now as this game has a real
ebb-and-flow about it early on. Diame looked to take his man on at the edge
of the area, and although he was held up, he managed to shift the ball onto
Downing, who created the yard he needed to shoot, but just a touch over the
bar.
10: Demel sells Noble just a touch short with his pass allowing Ipswich's
Bishop to nip in and take possession. Skuse takes up the running and drives
towards the edge of he box but doesn't catch his shot correctly and it
dribbles wide.
7: The chances are flowing for West Ham at the moment, and again it comes
down the left as Cresswell passes into Cole, who lays into Jarvis' path. The
No7 has to stretch to make connection with his shot and the ball flies just
over the top.
6: Kouyate has another go as a left-wing Hammers corner is only half cleared
by the home defence. This time a defender gets in the way to prevent the
Senegal midfielder's shot from troubling
4: Jarvis, who scored at Stevenage on Saturday, is picking up where he left
off and he stands an excellent cross up to the far post, where Kouyate is
charging in to meet. However, he can't get over the ball and the home side
escape.
2: The Hammers make inroads for the first time as Demel sweeps a pass out to
Jarvis on the far side. His first touch takes him inside his man and he
looks to feed Cole inside the area, but he is crowded out as he looks to
bring the ball under control.
1: There's an early opportunity for Ipswich right back Elliott Hewitt to
advance down his flank and cross, but Guy Demel is there at the far post to
bring under control and clear away from danger. First moment of danger dealt
with calmly.
7.49pm We're off and underway, the Hammers clad in their new home kit, which
is available from Club Stores tomorrow remember!
7.47pm Aaron Cresswell gets a warm round of applause as his name is read
out. The new Hammers left back spent three years here before making the move
to the Boleyn Ground this summer.
7.46pm And here they come! The Hammers led by Mark Noble, who is captaining
the first half XI. Bubbles rings out from the large Hammers contingent which
has gathered over on the far side to us.
7.45pm We're still awaiting the players' arrival here on the pitch Portman
Road. Hopefully they'll be out shortly!
7.37pm Kick-off is approaching here at Portman Road. Last time we were here
was for a pre-season fixture on 4 August 2012. The Hammers were beaten 3-1
through goals from Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, Luke Chambers and Jason Scotland,
with Matt Taylor netting the visitors' consolation. The game saw Aaron
Cresswell line up against his future employers, while Mark Noble started
against the club where he spent a period on loan as a youngster.
Will we fare better this evening? We're about to find out.
7.10pm We have team news for the Hammers, with Big Sam set to field
different sides in both 45 minutes.
Our first half XI is: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Tomkins, Cresswell,
Noble, Kouyate, Diame, Jarvis, C.Cole, Downing.
With Adrian, O'Brien, Reid, Chambers, Page, Lletget, Poyet, Nolan, Cullen,
Vaz Te, Zarate, McCallum, Sadlier, Harney and Spiegel on the bench too, the
boss will be giving a run-out to most of his squad.
Meanwhile, Ipswich include former Hammer Frank Nouble in their team, with
their first half XI comprising: Gerken, Hewitt, Berra, Clarke, Mings,
Stewart, Skuse, Bishop, Henshall, Marriott, Nouble
A very good evening to you all from Portman Road, Ipswich!
West Ham United contest their second pre-season fixture with tonight's
fixture at the Championship side.
The Hammers opened their preparations for 2014/15 with a 2-2 draw with
Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium on Saturday, where late goals from Matt
Jarvis and Stewart Downing saw them recover from two goals down to share the
spoils.
Manager Sam Allardyce will take a strong squad to Suffolk, with new boy
Mauro Zarate and fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Carlton Cole hoping to
make their first appearances after missing Saturday's game.
Ipswich also kicked-off their own pre-season fixture list on Saturday, when
they ran out 4-0 winners at League of Ireland First Division side Shelbourne
in
Dublin.
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Return to action inspires Reid
WHUFC.com
Homeward-bound Winston Reid enjoyed his return to action and is relishing a
return to New Zealand
15.07.2014
With West Ham United heading to his homeland on Thursday, Winston Reid has
spent the past few weeks fielding questions galore about New Zealand. While
the All Whites captain welcomes the media attention surrounding the Hammers'
long-distance Football United Tour, the defender was delighted to be
concentrating 100 per cent on football again at the weekend. The No2 was
part of the side which drew 2-2 at Stevenage in their opening pre-season
fixture, safely negotiating 45 minutes as West Ham began their preparations
for the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League campaign. Obviously it was nice to
be back into game mode, I guess," he agreed. "It was a bit hot out there,
but we got through it and I got 45 minutes under my belt, which was the most
important thing. We didn't pick any injuries, either, which was good."
Reid lined up alongside youngster Leo Chambers at the heart of the defence,
while new boys Aaron Cresswell and Diego Poyet filled the left-back and
defensive midfield berths respectively. The Kiwi said the pair, along with
Senegal midfielder and half-time substitute Cheikhou Kouyate, had all
settled in well since their recent arrivals. "It's always nice to get the
guys in early and Aaron, Cheikh and Diego have all come in and done well,"
he confirmed. "I'm sure they will be keen to push on forward from here and
now."
All three are expected to be involved again when West Ham travel to Ipswich
Town on Wednesday evening before joining the squad to fly out to New Zealand
the following evening. Reid was part of the Hammers side thrashed 5-1 at
Portman Road in the Championship in January 2012 and 3-1 at the same venue
in pre-season eight months later. With those games in mind, the centre-back
wants an improved showing this time around. "It's always about performances
and getting minutes under your belt in pre-season and avoiding injuries as
well. Hopefully come Thursday everyone will be all right and we'll jump on
the plane and go to New Zealand."
Reid might have left Auckland 14 years ago, but he still has family and
friends there, after spending time with film crews from New Zealand in
recent weeks, he is relishing the return home. "It's been nice to speak with
journalists from back home instead of West Ham TV, so it's been great!" he
joked. "Obviously I still play for the national team down there so I try to
follow what's going on down there as much as possible. "New Zealand is my
home, so I'll always have an interest in what is going on down there."
One event that will go on down in New Zealand next week is the visit of
teams from Reid's old school, Milford, and club, Takapuna, to a West Ham
training session. The player is looking forward to meeting youngsters who
hope to follow in his footsteps one day. "It's exciting. It's a long time
since I've been there so it'll be nice to go back. I played for the school
and Takapuna between the ages of five and ten, when I moved to Denmark, so
it's going to be nice to go back home and see them. "It's going to be the
middle of winter, but I can't complain! I'll be telling the guys to put a
beanie hat on, and hopefully we'll get some sun on a couple of the days!
"We're going a long way around the world, so it'll be nice for the fans down
there to come along and see how we train and everything. It'll be a good
opportunity for us and for them."
West Ham United tackle Wellington Phoenix at Eden Park in Auckland on
Wednesday 23 July (7.30pm), with prices starting from just 59 NZD (£30.20)
for Adults and 20 NZD (£10.25) for Children.
Three days later, the Hammers take on Sydney FC at Westpac Stadium in
Wellington (2pm) as part of a double-header that also includes Newcastle
United's clash with the Phoenix. Ticket prices start from 95 NZD (£48) for
Adults, 45 NZD (£22.80) for Children and 235 NZD (£119) for a Family (Two
Adults/Two Children).
New Zealand-based supporters unable to attend the fixtures at Eden Park and
Westpac Stadium will also be able to enjoy them live on SKY Arena
pay-per-view television, priced at $24.99 per game and $39.95 for the Tour.
Tickets for West Ham's two Football United Tour matches are available to buy
here.
Flight, ticket and accommodation packages for the Football United Tour are
also on sale now, with prices starting from as little as NZ $216 (£110) per
person. For full details, click here.
Football United Tour
Wellington Phoenix v West Ham United
Wednesday 23 July 2014, 7.30pm (local time)
Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand
Sydney FC v West Ham United
Saturday 26 July 2014, 2pm (local time)
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand
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Mediawatch - 16 July
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
16.07.2014
The Daily Mail report that the Hammers are edging closer to completing their
move for Ecuador striker Enner Valencia, who the paper says is valued at
£12m.
Meanwhile, the same newspaper carries the news of Ravel Morrison's
successful minor groin surgery, which will sideline the midfielder until the
first team return from New Zealand.
Dnipro's Ivan Strinic and Malaga's Vitorino Antunes are also being
considered, according to this Mail report, as left back options to add
competition for that place in the team.
Also in the news is a talkSPORT report that the Hammers and Crystal Palace
have been put on alert after Hull City boss Steve Bruce's admission that
talks with Tottenham defender Michael Dawson have stalled.
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Young striker joins West Ham on trial
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have taken Polish striker Adrian Wojcik Kosela on trial. Polish
website Sport Review reports this afternoon that the 20-year-old has arrived
in London ahead of a week-long trial. It is believed that Kosela, who
qualifies for Poland through his mother despite being born in Spain will
also feature in a friendly for the development squad, whilst training with
the youngsters at Chadwell Heath where he will be assessed. The 6' tall
striker, who flew into London earelier today has already featured for
Sevilla's B and C teams plus Real Betis' reserves.
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Fulham want Carlton Cole
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United striker Carlton Cole is wanted by Championship club Fulham.
The 30-year-old striker signed a new 18-month contract with West Ham back in
January but could be off to West London just six months later to join the
Cottagers, who were relegated from the Premier League at the end of last
season, according to KUMB sources. Fulham are determined to make an instant
return to the top flight and have already shelled out a Championship-record
£11million fee for former Leeds striker and West Ham target Ross McCormack.
And manager Felix Magath is keen to pair the 27-year-old Scottish
international with Cole, who made 30 appearances for West Ham last season
scoring six times in the process. The impending arrival of Enner Valencia -
combined with that of Mauro Zarate back in May - has seen Cole, already
considered a back-up to Andy Carroll slip further down the pecking order at
the Boleyn Ground.
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Valencia agrees personal terms
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Enner Valencia is on the verge of becoming Sam Allardyce's fifth summer
signing after agreeing to move to West Ham. The 24-year-old Ecuador
international could be announced as a Hammer later today after he agreed
personal terms with United, 24 hours after completing a medical. However
reports that the transfer has already been agreed between West Ham and
Valencia's current club, CF Pachua, proved to be wide of the mark - as
shortly before midnight. the son of co-owner David Sullivan tweeted:
"Valencia deal done with player, but not club yet... Sky sports are wrong.
Will tweet if/when it is done!" Earlier on Tuesday evening Mexican sources
were reporting that the deal had already been completed, although the fee
remains undisclosed, with various reports suggesting an initial figure of
anywhere between £7million-£15million.
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Enner Valencia confirms West Ham move
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 17th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Enner Valencia confirmed tonight that he has signed a five-year contract
with West Ham. The 24-year-old forward is set to be confirmed as West Ham's
latest signing imminently and speaking to Ecuador-based radio station
Deportiva last night, revealed that he was looking forward to playing at the
Boleyn Ground.
"I'm happy to join a very good team with very friendly people," he said.
"The deal was completed yesterday [Tuesday] and it's a five-year contract.
"There were some difficulties with parts of the contract but it was resolved
to the satisfaction of all parties. [Manchester United winger] Antonio
Valencia has also helped me, with him being in England."
West Ham are understood to have applied for a work permit. Due to Valencia's
regular appearances for Ecuador since 2012, it is thought unlikely that any
problems will arise. The fee remains undisclosed.
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West Ham sign Enner Valencia from Pachuca
Last Updated: 16/07/14 12:14pm
SSN
West Ham have signed Ecuador striker Enner Valencia from Mexican club
Pachuca for a fee in the region of £15million, according to Sky sources. The
25-year-old, who scored all three of Ecuador's World Cup goals in Brazil
this summer, has put pen to paper on a reported five-year contract after
agreeing personal terms and passing a medical. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce
beat off competition from several other Premier League clubs to sign
Valencia, whose fee could equal the club record £15m paid for Andy Carroll.
He will become West Ham's fifth signing of the summer, joining Argentine
striker Mauro Zarate, centre-back or midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, Ipswich
Town left-back Aaron Cresswell and Charlton midfielder Diego Poyet at the
club. Valencia also caught the attention ahead of the World Cup when he
scored a header for Ecuador in a 2-2 friendly draw with England in Miami,
and prior to that he had netted 18 goals in 23 outings for his club. West
Ham winger Stewart Downing has already tipped Valencia to be a success
alongside Zarate and Carroll at Upton Park. He said: "For large parts of
last season we played without a striker. We can't rely on Andy all season.
"He was the big signing last season, but Andy struggled with injuries so
hopefully the new signings will take the pressure off him a little bit. And
from what I've seen of Valencia against England, he looks a very good
player. "He can nick a goal and it is competition for places. It's what
we've needed as we didn't have that last season. It will help the manager
that he has options and he can bring other people in who can perform
straight away."
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West Ham, Stoke and Southampton eye Livorno striker Paulinho
By Simone Bargellini | Last Updated: 16/07/14 7:59pm
SSN
Livorno president Aldo Spinelli has confirmed that West Ham, Stoke and
Southampton are among the Premier League clubs eyeing a move for Brazilian
striker Paulinho. The 28-year-old, who found the net 15 times in 35 Serie A
appearances during the last campaign, is also said to have attracted
interest from Verona in the Italian top flight. Livorno are preparing for
life in Serie B after suffering relegation last season and Spinelli admitted
that Paulinho would be available for less than £8million as his future looks
almost certain to be elsewhere. Spinelli told Tuttomercatoweb: "Not only
Verona are looking at the player. West Ham, Stoke City and Southampton are
tracking him in the Premier League, while in Dubai two clubs are interested.
"As far as we are concerned, one club is as good as another. It's up to him
now, so he will decide the destination then we will reach an agreement on
the economic aspects. "Paulinho will return to Italy tomorrow, then he'll
decide on his future. In January, our assessment was 10 million euros, now
the fee has decreased."
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Winston Reid offered new West Ham deal
By Graeme Bailey | Twitter @graemebailey | Last Updated: 16/07/14 5:00pm
SSN
West Ham United have offered Winston Reid a new long-term contract, Sky
Sports understands. The 26-year-old has been outstanding for The Hammers
since joining from Danish club FC Midtjylland in 2010. He signed a new deal
last summer, but that only took him to 2015 and West Ham are now looking to
extend that further, as they are aware a number of their Premier League
rivals are taking a keen interest in Reid's situation. Sources have
confirmed to Sky Sports that Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and
Manchester United are all monitoring Reid, but West Ham are determined to
keep him. With that in mind, they tabled an offer to Reid and his
representatives earlier this month and hope to conclude a deal before the
start of the Premier League season in August.
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VALENCIA DEAL SUBJECT TO WORK PERMIT
By Sean Whetstone 16 Jul 2014 at 16:45
West ham till I Die
Despite most of the media saying Enner Valencia has already signed for as
much as £15m there is a few more hurdles for West Ham to jump before he can
be announced as a West Ham player.
Although the medical has been passed and personal terms have been agreed
with the player the two clubs have yet to complete the legal paperwork. With
the time difference with Mexico being six hours behind this has been a slow
process and may take a couple more days to finalise I hear. Although figures
of £12m to £15m have been quoted in the press I understand the initial fee
is likely to be much lower (around the £7m mark) but with add-ons, goals,
appearances and other targets it could take the final amount close to the
media quoted amount eventually. There is also rumour of a sell on clause
while others suggest the Mexican club will retain 30% ownership which I find
unlikely.
An initial £7m fee would take us very close to our £20m transfer kitty
budget after spending £7.5m on Kouyate, £1m on Zarate & Poyet in agent fees
and compensation and £3.75m on Cresswell. Any further signing would need to
be free transfers, loan or cheap deals so you can discount any mega money
transfer rumours.
Valencia will also need to get a work permit to work in this country which
should a formality considering his World cup appearances but with Sam
Allardyce flying to New Zealand tomorrow night with the rest of the team it
seems unlikely the work permit will be completed within the next two weeks.
Sam would usually be present to the Work permit panel to give it credibility
so hence the possible delay.
Despite the work permit issue I still expect West Ham to announce Valencia
as a new player but will say it is subject to him getting his work permit.
Valencia joined Emelec in 2008 from Caribe Junior's youth system, From 2008
to early 2010 he received no opportunities in the first team, but with the
arrival of the Argentinian coach Jorge Sampaoli, Valencia started to receive
playtime opportunities. Valencia's first professional career goal was on
10th March 2010, scoring the only goal to gain an important away win against
Ecuadorian giants LDU Quito.
Valencia initially began his career as a winger, but was converted to play
as a striker by Emelec coach Gustavo Quinteros. Reinaldo Rueda started
experimenting with Valencia as a striker after the untimely death of
Christian Benítez. After numerous rumors involving the interest of Pachuca
for Valencia, both Parties came to terms and agreed on a transfer in 2014.
On 18th January 2014, Valencia scored his first goal for Pachuca in a 2–1
victory against Tijuana. The following week he scored two goals to in
Pachuca's first away win league match against league champions Club León. He
finished the season as the top goal-scorer with 12 goals, scoring various
braces for Pachuca. Valencia scored his first hatitrick against UNAM in a
2–4 away win to advance in the Liga MX Apertura 2014 Playoffs. On 15 May,
Valencia scored a brace on the first leg of the Liga MX Finals, winning the
away match 3–2. In total Valencia netted 18 times in 23 games for Pachuca
last season and also scored all three of Ecuador's goals at the World Cup
finals in Brazil.
After making three appearances in the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification
campaign, he scored his first international goal in a 2–2 draw against
Honduras on 19 November 2013. He continued his good form in 2014, scoring in
three of Ecuador's four pre-tournament friendlies. On 5 March, he scored,
assisted a goal and won a penalty kick as La Tri came from 3–0 down to
defeat Australia 4–3.5 He then scored the team's only goal in a 3–1 loss
against Mexico, and gave them an early lead in a 2–2 draw with England in
Miami. In June 2014, Valencia was named in Ecuador's squad for the 2014 FIFA
World Cup. On 15 June, he made his FIFA World Cup debut in the team's
opening match against Switzerland at the Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha in
Brasília, opening the scoring with a header in a 2–1 defeat. In Ecuador's
second match, Valencia scored both goals to defeat Honduras 2–1 in Curitiba.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
RAVEL UNDER THE KNIFE
By Sean Whetstone 16 Jul 2014 at 13:50
West Ham Till I Die
Both West Ham United and his agent Nick Rubbery have moved quickly to dispel
rumours of a missing Ravel Morrison,
West Ham released a statement yesterday saying:
"West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has undergone successful
minor groin surgery.
The 21-year-old was diagnosed with the condition during pre-season testing
and had a minor procedure at a central London hospital on Tuesday afternoon.
The operation was completed without complications and, following a period of
rehabilitation, it is expected the England U21 midfielder will return to
training in a few weeks when the first-team squad return from New Zealand."
His agent Nick Rubbery also felt compelled to publish this photo of Ravel in
an hospital bed as if to prove the operation actually happened.
The complaint of groin problem by Ravel is nothing new but in the past it
had been claimed there was no proof and Ravel has refused to go under the
knife for an exploratory operation. Morrison missed the Boxing Day defeat
against Arsenal with a groin injury last year although internet rumours
suggested he had gone AWOL,
In February this year Big Sam was quoted as saying
"At the moment, Rav is still complaining about the problem he had before
Christmas, to say he has these rumbling groin problems,At the end of the day
he is going to have to decide if he goes for the hernia operation or not and
the answer keeps being no – he doesn't need it. I haven't heard any rumours
any other way in terms of what is happening with Rav, but he certainly needs
to get back and train with the squad.He has to realise now everybody is fit
there is severe competition here, especially with the new players as well."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Town 0-0 West Ham
Wednesday, 16th Jul 2014 21:40
TWTD.co.uk
Town and West Ham played out an entertaining 0-0 draw in Portman Road's only
friendly of the summer. Jack Marriott and Cameron Stewart went closest to
breaking the deadlock for the Blues in the first half, while former Blue
Aaron Cresswell hit the bar on his return to his old club.
Dean Gerken started in goal for the Blues with Elliott Hewitt at right-back
and Tyrone Mings on the left. Second-year scholar Matt Clarke, 17, was at
the heart of the defence alongside Christophe Berra.
New signings Stewart and Alex Henshall took the right and left wide roles
respectively with Cole Skuse and first-year pro Teddy Bishop at the centre.
Up front, Frank Nouble, facing his old club, partnered Marriott up front.
Cresswell made a quick return to Portman Road having joined the Hammers from
the Blues earlier in the month, while former Town loanee Mark Noble also
started for the visitors.
The Hammers created the game's first opening in the fifth minute, left
winger Matt Jarvis was found in acres of space and sent in a cross which
Cheikhou Kouyate nodded over at the far post.
West Ham continued to threaten and in the seventh minute Cresswell's long
ball found Carlton Cole, who teed-up Jarvis on the edge of the box but the
midfielder, who played for Mick McCarthy at Wolves, blazed over.
Town's first chance came in the 10th minute, Marriott picking up a loose
ball midway inside the Hammers half but scuffing his 20-yard effort wide.
But the visitors were still having the best of it and in the 12th minute
Stewart Downing hit a left-foot shot from 25 yards just over Gerken's
crossbar.
Two minutes later, returning former Blue Cresswell came close to a goal when
a cross from the edge of the area took a deflection, left Gerken flat-footed
but struck the top of the bar.
The Blues broke immediately, Nouble sending Henshall away down the left. The
summer signing from Manchester City crossed towards Marriott, but the ball
was nodded away ahead of the frontman.
Town should have gone in front in the 20th minute when Mings cut the ball
back from the left to an unmarked Stewart, who hit his shot straight at
Nouble.
Stewart might have done better two minutes later when found by Marriott as
he broke into the area but his first touch was too heavy.
Improving Town were inches from going in front in the 26th minute when
Marriott burst past James Collins and into the area on the right. The
19-year-old hit a low cross-shot just beyond the post and ahead of the
diving Nouble.
Three minutes later, only a last-ditch Hewitt challenge diverted Mo Diame's
shot after Noble had found him with a cross from the left.
West Ham were by now again looking the more threatening side and on 34 Mings
did well to get in ahead of Cole after Cresswell had sent in a teasing ball
from the left, then following the resultant corner Noble curled an effort
narrowly wide.
Two minutes before the break Jarvis was again found in space on the West Ham
left but scraped a weak shot straight at Gerken. Just before the whistle,
Diame hit a 20-yard strike which deflected wide.
The only surprise at half-time was that neither side had managed to break
the deadlock given the number of chances at both ends.
Marriott, a threat throughout, will feel he should have done better with his
chance as will Stewart.
Unsurprisingly, Premier League West Ham had most of the better chances but
without Gerken having been forced into a serious save.
As at Shelbourne on Saturday, Mick McCarthy fielded an entirely different XI
in the second half with new signing Bartosz Bialkowski in goal, Jonny Parr
at right-back, Ben Wyatt on the left and Tommy Smith and Luke Chambers at
the centre of the defence.
In central midfield Freddie Veseli partnered Luke Hyam with Jay Tabb on the
left and Paul Anderson on the right. Paul Taylor and Daryl Murphy were up
front. West Ham also switched their entire XI.
Veseli, who spent last week on trial at FC Luzern, struck the second half's
first serious effort but his edge-of-the-area strike looped over Adrian's
cross-bar.
Town had started the second period on top but just before the hour mark Seb
Lletget struck a shot from the edge of the Blues box, Bialkowski saving
comfortably to his left.
An unmarked Chambers headed Anderson's 62nd minute corner over the bar, the
centre-half clearly feeling he ought to have done better. A minute later,
Parr crossed from the right and Murphy flicked a header to Adrian.
For the Hammers, Lletget flicked a 67th minute header wide from Joey
O'Brien's right-wing cross.
Two minutes later, Murphy picked up a loose ball midway inside the West Ham
half before playing it wide to Taylor. The former Peterborough man chipped a
cross towards Veseli at the far post but Josh Cullen got in ahead of him to
nod behind.
Bialkowski did well to keep the scores level in the 72nd minute, making a
superb reaction save from Lletget after the visitors had worked an opening
inside the box. Moments later, the Polish keeper was caught somewhat late by
Kevin Nolan.
As the game moved into its final 10 minutes Ricardo Vaz Te grazed the top of
the net with a freekick from distance, then moments later, the former Bolton
man somehow mis-hit the ball wide from eight yards under pressure from
Wyatt, having been found by sub Paul McCallum's cut-back from the left.
Despite the lack of goals, it had been an entertaining game with the draw
probably the right result. Both sides had chances in either half with
Marriott and Stewart having the Blues' best before the break.
In the second half, Town had more of the ball and created most of the early
chances but new signing Bialkowski was the busier of the two keepers and
will have impressed his new fans with his display.
Town first half: Gerken, Hewitt, Berra, Clarke, Mings, Stewart, Skuse,
Bishop, Henshall, Marriott, Nouble.
Town Second half: Bialkowski, Parr, Chambers, Smith, Wyatt, Anderson, Hyam,
Veseli, Tabb, Murphy, Taylor. Subs: McQueen, Lawrence, Crowe.
West Ham first half: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Tomkins, Cresswell,
Kouyate, Noble, Diame, Jarvis, Cole, Downing.
West Ham second half: Adrian, O'Brien, Reid, Chambers, Page, Cullen, Poyet,
Vaz Te, Nolan, Lleget, Zarete (McCallum 78). Referee: Darren Deadman. Att:
8,976 (West Ham 1,920).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rav…his agent…and that hospital picture
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison's footballing life amuses, infuriates and entertains in
almost equal parts! But it's the activities of his agent Nick Rubery which
have attracted interest over the past 24 hours! For on Tuesday evening Mr
Rubery decided to post a picture of his client on Twitter which showed the
midfielder in a hospital bed after a minor surgical operation on his groin.
The question is: WHY?
The West Ham official website had already revealed the news and in a normal
world that should surely be enough. But this of course is Ravel Morrison and
the history of famous 'groin injury' – sustained ahead of the Christmas
programme after he'd been dropped – has never been forgotten. There were
conspiracy theories until now that there was no groin injury but instead
that it was all about the player's differences with the manager.
It became so much the received wisdom that Rav's reputation began to fall
even among some of his most ardent believers Sam Allardyce had a very firm
view on the situation declaring at one point: "Listening to our medical
staff, there is no problem that he can carry on – not at all "He says he
feels it occasionally. Instead of gritting your teeth and getting on with
it… he's not the type. "Lots and lots of players throughout the country will
be playing with a similar type of injury that the medical team say 'you can
carry on, it's not a problem'.
The player was shipped out to QPR on loan where he played games and we
started to arrive at the point where many – perhaps most – believed we
would never see the fella in a West Ham shirt again. But he's back and with
the injury dealt with, maybe Rav's agent had a point in making it clear
there has indeed been a problem, But just why was surgery left so long and
why should the club choose to have it dealt with immediately ahead of the
trip to New Zealand?
Easily answered. Rav is a notoriously bad traveller. Those who know him well
admit that he often feels uncomfortable in foreign parts and as a result
this seemed the ideal time to have the injury sorted. The life and times of
Ravel Morrison has been given too much attention and has become a
distraction.
I believe this is s the biggest season of his career. With the injury issue
dealt with and the club embracing him as a bg part of things, let's believe
he's going to show himself to be the re real deal. There have been far too
many questions hanging over what should be a wonderful career …come on Rav
start giving us the right answers.
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Irons give Fulham frosty Cole response
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United have confirmed Fulham are interested in striker Carlton Cole
but have no intention of doing a deal on the terms being offered. News broke
earlier today that manager Felix Magath is keen to pair new signing Ross
McCormack with the Hammers loyalist. The news first appeared on www.kumb.com
but when ClaretandHugh contacted Upton Park sources Fulham were given a
frosty reception to the proposed deal. We were told that there was no chance
of a deal being done on the terms being offered by the Cottagers. Our source
said: " They want Carlton for nothing and he is very much part of our
plans."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Albion track Hammers keeper
5:00am Thursday 17th July 2014 in Albion By Andy Naylor
The Argus: Stephen Henderson
Albion are interested in West Ham's Stephen Henderson as they continue their
hunt for a new No. 1. The former Republic of Ireland under-21 international
is on the Seagulls' radar in their quest to replace the departed Tomasz
Kuszczak. Henderson still has a year left on a lucrative contract at West
Ham United but may be prepared to accept a pay cut in search of regular
first team football. Albion could alternatively look to land the 26-year-old
Dubliner on a long-term loan. Henderson has already had seven loan spells
during his career, including stints with Ipswich and Albion's South Coast
rivals Bournemouth last season.
He was due to be with the Cherries for three months but had to return to
Upton Park after dislocating his shoulder in only his second appearance.
Henderson, nephew of former Albion No. 1 Wayne Henderson, began his career
at Aston Villa. The 6ft 2ins shot-stopper also had permanent spells with
Bristol City and Portsmouth before signing two years ago for West Ham, where
he has been limited to two League Cup outings. Albion's search for a
replacement for Kuszczak has been wide-ranging. They are keen to take
Stoke's Jack Butland on loan and were interested in former Sunderland keeper
Keiren Westwood before he signed for Sheffield Wednesday. The Seagulls' trip
to Bournemouth has been brought forward from Saturday November 1 to Friday
October 31 (7.45pm) for live coverage on Sky Sports.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia: He's ours, but not quite!
Posted on July 17, 2014 by ClaretNBlues
Claret & Hugh
With the signing of Enner Valencia being on everyone's expectation list (if
such thing ever existed) for the past 10-14 days, we at C&B have every
reason to believe that he will indeed sign but don't expect it to be
announced just yet. If the signing is in fact announced be prepared for it
to be followed by a massive 'IF'.
It is our understanding that the player, himself has agreed a 5 year
contract with the West Ham hierarchy and we also have been led to believe
that his previous club Pachuca have accepted the offer submitted.
Despite the fact that the player and his previous club both tweeted that
they believe a deal has been completed, I think it would be very fair to say
that there's still a few t's that need to be crossed and a couple of i's
that need dotting.
Right now, it would seem that the only obstacles standing in our way are a
few minor loose ends regarding the contract and a possible delay with the
issuing of the necessary work permit.
Another matter worth mentioning is that Enner's previous club have rubbished
any notion that we have paid anything near the £12m reported and have in
fact paid nearer £6.5m with an add on of £2m depending on appearances and
performance. They have also indicated that they have retained a 10% stake in
the player to guarantee income from any further sale.
To cut a long story short, we believe that Mr Valencia is indeed a West Ham
United player bar a few loose ends that should and will be tied up in due
course.
Just don't expect a solid confirmation from the club anytime soon!
Matt
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Enner Valencia reveals namesake Antonio convinced him to join Premier League
in £12million move to West Ham
Enner Valencia: 'Antonio Valencia has helped a lot in my decision'
Valencia makes £12million move to West Ham from Mexican side Pachuca
The 24-year-old adds he is 'happy to join a very good team'
By KIERAN GILL
PUBLISHED: 01:05, 17 July 2014 | UPDATED: 01:23, 17 July 2014
Daily Mail
Enner Valencia has revealed his namesake Antonio convinced him to make a
£12million move to West Ham in the Premier League. The Ecuador striker
scored three times at the World Cup and signed a five-year deal at Upton
Park. And he admitted the advice from his international team-mate and
Manchester United winger was crucial in the decision.
ENNER VALENCIA LEAGUE FACT FILE
BORN: November 4 1989 (age 24)
2010-2013: Emelec (124 apps, 27 gls)
2014-2014: Pachuca (23, 18)
2014-NOW: West Ham (0, 0)
2012-NOW: Ecuador (13, 7)
'I'm happy to join a very good team,' Valencia told a Mexican radio station.
'There were a few issues with some parts of the contract but all parties
involved have now reached an agreement. 'Antonio Valencia has helped a lot
in my decision. It is a good team and the people are very friendly.'
Valencia moves to the Premier League club from Mexican side Pachuca.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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Thursday, July 17
Wednesday, July 16
Daily WHUFC News - 16th July 2014
Match Preview - Ipswich Town
WHUFC.com
Team news, ticket and travel details and much more ahead of West Ham
United's trip to Portman Road
15.07.2014
IPSWICH TOWN v WEST HAM UNITED
PRE-SEASON MATCH
PORTMAN ROAD
WEDNESDAY 15 JULY 2014
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: ANDY WOOLMER
In brief
West Ham United contest their second pre-season fixture with a trip to
Portman Road to take on Championship side Ipswich Town.
The Hammers opened their preparations for 2014/15 with a 2-2 draw with
Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium on Saturday, where late goals from Matt
Jarvis and Stewart Downing saw them recover from two goals down to share the
spoils.
Manager Sam Allardyce will take a strong squad to Suffolk, with new boy
Mauro Zarate and fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Carlton Cole hoping to
make their first appearances after missing Saturday's game.
Ipswich also kicked-off their own pre-season fixture list on Saturday, when
they ran out 4-0 winners at League of Ireland First Division side Shelbourne
in Dublin.
You can join the conversation on social media by clicking on the relevant
links above using the hashtag #IPSWHU.
Who are they?
Ipswich Town was founded in 1878 but did not turn professional until 1936,
joining the Football League two years later.
The Tractor Boys were promoted to the top flight in 1961, winning the title
for the only time in their history the following season. Perhaps Ipswich's
finest era was in the late 1970s and early 1980s when, under future England
manager Bobby Robson, they were twice runners-up in Division One, won the FA
Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981.
In more recent times, Ipswich have spent five seasons in the Premier League
in two spells. The Suffolk side has spent the last 12 seasons in the second
tier, reaching the Play-Offs twice in 2004 and 2005, when they were
eliminated on both occasions by West Ham United.
One quirky fact about Ipswich is that they have never lost at home in
European competition - a record spanning 31 matches over 45 years!
Team news
Sam Allardyce is again expected to utilise the majority of his squad at
Portman Road, with new boy Mauro Zarate and fellow forwards Andy Carroll and
Carlton Cole hoping to make their first appearances after missing Saturday's
game at Stevenage with minor ailments. Former Ipswich left-back Aaron
Cresswell is expected to feature against the club he left to join West Ham
last month.
Ipswich have replaced Cresswell with Norway international Jonathan Parr from
Crystal Palace. Manager Mick McCarthy has also drafted in wingers Cameron
Stewart and Alex Henshall from Hull City and Manchester City respectively to
further strengthen the left side of his squad. Striker Darren McQueen has
joined Ipswich from Tottenham Hotspur and was among the scorers at
Shelbourne.
Referee
Saturday's referee will be Andy Woolmer, a Northampton-based postman.
Forty-eight year old Woolmer is a long-serving Football League official who
is also on the Premier League assistant referee list - a role he fulfilled
at the 2003 League Cup final and Community Shield at the Millennium Stadium
later the same year.
Woolmer has never refereed West Ham in a competitive fixture. However, he
did take charge of a friendly match between a Hammers XI and Northampton
Town at Sixfields Stadium in August 2012.
Woolmer will be assisted by Ian Rathbone and Mark Scholes, while his fourth
official will be Dean Whitestone.
One to watch
Ipswich Town
Cameron Stewart is a 23-year-old left-sided midfield player who came through
the youth ranks at Manchester United, but failed to make a first-team
appearance for the Red Devils. After loan spells with Yeovil Town and Hull
City, Stewart joined the latter on a permanent basis in January 2011 for
£300,000.
A former England U20 international, Stewart recovered from a serious knee
injury to play 32 times during the 2011/12 season, including an appearance
as a half-time substitute in the Tigers' 2-1 Championship defeat at West Ham
on the final day of the campaign. With first-team opportunities becoming
increasingly limited at Hull, Stewart was loaned to Burnley, Blackburn
Rovers, Charlton Athletic and Leeds United during the previous two seasons
before moving to Ipswich on a free transfer on 1 July this year.
A lively 5'8 winger with good pace, Stewart will hope to make an impact at
Portman Road.
West Ham United
West Ham United could hand a first appearance in Claret and Blue to forward
Mauro Zarate, who became the Hammers' first summer signing when he agreed to
a move from Argentine club Velez Sarsfield.
A skilful attacker capable of playing in a centre forward or withdrawn role
and scoring spectacular goals, the Haedo-born player also numbers Birmingham
City, Qatari side Al-Sadd and Italian giants Lazio and Internazionale among
his former clubs.
Small in stature, but strong, elusive and technically excellent, Zarate
finished as leading scorer in Argentina's 2014 Primera Division Torneo Final
with 13 goals in 19 appearances.
Tickets
West Ham United have been allocated of 2,000 Standard Tickets.
Tickets can no longer be bought online from West Ham United. However,
tickets will be available to purchase (cash only) from the Cobbold Stand
Away Turnstiles from 6.30pm on matchday.
Standard Ticket prices: £15 Adults, £10 Concessions (60+/U20s/Students), £3
U16s
Disabled Tickets can be purchase directly from Warner Duff, Ipswich Town
Disability Officer on 01473 400 556 (normal office hours only).
Disabled Ticket prices: £10 Wheelchair/Ambulant disabled with complimentary
carer*
Travel
Coach travel
There will be no coach travel for this fixture.
By car
Address: Portman Road, Ipswich, IP1 2DA
Distance from the Boleyn Ground: 76 miles
Directions: Motorists are encouraged to initially take the M11 or A13 out of
London, rather than the slower A12. From the M11 or A13, join the M25 and
link up with the northbound A12 at Junction 28. Follow the A12 for 52 miles
before reaching a large roundabout. Take the second exit onto the A1214
(London Road) into Ipswich. Go straight over a roundabout after 0.4 miles
and continue for two miles before turning right into A137 (West End Road) at
the bottom of the hill. After 0.6 miles, turn left onto Russell Road and
Portman Road stadium will be on your right. There are three Pay and Display
car parks in Portman Road itself, while the city centre location means
on-street parking is virtually non-existent. There are a number of other car
parks located in the town centre which are sign posted, plus there is a
multi-storey car park located next to the railway station
By train
Tickets: An Adult return between London Liverpool Street and Stevenage
starts from £38.90.
Before the match: Ipswich railway station is within five minutes walking
distance of Portman Road. Direct services leave London Liverpool Street at
.00, .02, .30 and .32 minutes past the hour, taking between 58 minutes and
one hour and 25 minutes to complete their journey. To reach the stadium,
cross B1075 (Burrell Road) in front of the station and walk straight ahead
along Princes Street. You should be able to see the floodlights directly in
front of you. Cross the A137 and bear left, turning into Russell Road and
the stadium is on your right-hand side.
After the match: Fast services leave Ipswich for Liverpool Street at 21.43,
22.23, 22.43. Supporters should note that the 22.43 is the final service
back to London.
Where to go for a pre-match drink/meal
The main away pub is the Riverside (Station) Hotel, which is located close
to the railway station and is only a five-minute walk from Portman Road.
Otherwise, the Punch & Judy on Cardinal Park is also close to the stadium
and is open to both sets of supporters. The town centre has a good variety
of eating and drinking options, as you might expect, including real ale pubs
Lord Nelson in Fore Street and Dove Street Inn in St Helen's Street.
Weather
The forecast is for a warm evening with sunny intervals and a maximum
temperature of 20C (68F).
Last meeting
West Ham United last travelled to Ipswich Town for a pre-season fixture on 4
August 2012. The Hammers were beaten 3-1 through goals from Jay
Emmanuel-Thomas, Luke Chambers and Jason Scotland, with Matt Taylor netting
the visitors' consolation. The game saw Aaron Cresswell line up against his
future employers, while Mark Noble started against the club where he spent a
period on loan as a youngster.
Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham United
Pre-season match, 4 August 2012, Portman Road
Ipswich Town: Loach, Edwards (Ainsley 61), Cresswell (Whight 85), Chambers,
Smith (Delaney 61), Hyam (Murray 79), Carson, Luongo (Kourouma 71),
Emmanuel-Thomas (Lawrence 67), Martin, Chopra
Sub not used: Lee-Barrett
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen (Henderson 79), Demel, Reid, Collins, Potts
(O'Brien 46), O'Neil (Moncur 77), Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga (Maynard 61),
Cole (Fanimo 74)
Sub not used: Lletget
Old boys
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble played 13 Championship matches on loan
for Ipswich in the 2006/07 season, with his first senior goal coming on 12
September 2006 in a 2-1 home win against Coventry City.
Hammers new boys Aaron Cresswell enjoyed three outstanding seasons with the
Tractor Boys, making nearly 150 appearances and earning Player of the Year
honours in 2012. Last season, his outstanding all-round displays saw
Cresswell voted into the Championship Team of the Year by his fellow
professionals.
Ipswich forward Frank Nouble joined the Tractor Boys from Wolverhampton
Wanderers in January 2013 and has since chalked up 58 appearances and four
goals for the Suffolk club. Previously, the 22-year-old Chelsea Academy
graduate spent three seasons with West Ham between 2009 and 2012, scoring
one goal in 19 games.
A number of players have played for both clubs down the years, including Lee
Chapman, Kieron Dyer, Justin Fashanu, Craig Forrest, Paul Goddard, Matt
Holland, Kevin Horlock, Robert Johnstone, John Lyall, Andy Nelson, Phil
Parkes, Stuart Slater, Gavin Williams and Richard Wright.
The late, great John Lyall managed Ipswich Town between May 1990 and
December 1994. The man who won the 1980 FA Cup with West Ham enjoyed further
success at Portman Road, guiding the Tractor Boys to the Division Two title
in 1991/92, ensuring the club would be members of the inaugural Premier
League. He later took the role of Director of Football at Portman Road.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel undergoes minor groin surgery
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has undergone successful
minor groin surgery
15.07.2014
West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has undergone successful
minor groin surgery. The 21-year-old was diagnosed with the condition during
pre-season testing and had a minor procedure at a central London hospital on
Tuesday afternoon. The operation was completed without complications and,
following a period of rehabilitation, it is expected the England U21
midfielder will return to training in a few weeks when the first-team squad
return from New Zealand. The No15 has scored five goals in 22 first-team
appearances since joining the Hammers from Manchester United in January
2012, scoring the Club's Goal of the Season in a 3-0 Barclays Premier League
victory at Tottenham Hotspur in November last year. The Wythenshawe-born
player also featured 17 times for Queens Park Rangers on loan last season,
scoring six goals to help the Hoops win promotion from the Championship.
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Determined Downing reaps reward
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing's late leveller sent the travelling fans home happy at
Stevenage on Saturday
14.07.2014
Stewart Downing was pleased on a personal and collective level following
Saturday's 2-2 draw with Stevenage. West Ham United kicked off their
pre-season schedule in an interesting game that saw them come back from two
goals down, with Downing heading a last-minute leveller in front of the
travelling Claret and Blue Army. Matt Jarvis had earlier pulled one back
with a diving header from a Guy Demel centre, before he turned provider for
the tireless Downing to nod in at the far post with just seconds left on the
clock. Earlier, West Ham had conceded two sloppy goals either side of
half-time to leave themselves with a mountain to climb, but they showed
admirable spirit to snatch a share of the spoils late on. Tickets for
Wednesday's game at Ipswich, which kicks off at 7.45pm, are available by
clicking here. Adult tickets are priced at just £15 and concessions £10 "On
a personal level, to get through the 45 minutes and get a goal was good,"
Downing said. "We're obviously disappointed with the goals we conceded but
we've still got time to put that right. I think the most important thing was
that everyone got through it with no niggles. Everyone is fit and well."
Indeed, with a clean bill of health reported and the debut performances of
Aaron Creswell, Diego Poyet and Cheikhou Kouyate all adding encouragement,
the afternoon was a useful first outing. Up next for Big Sam's side is a
trip to Ipswich Town on Wednesday before they fly to New Zealand for a
high-profile tour the following day. "Stevenage were a couple of weeks ahead
of us so it was a hard game. The new lads played quite well but I'm sure
they will have found it tough as well," Downing added. "If we can get a good
result on Wednesday, New Zealand will be a really good trip for the Club and
the fans. We've got some good games out there so it should be great. "It's
great for the players as well as we've never been out there and I'm sure the
jet lag will be fine!"
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Cullen keen on more of the same
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen wants to kick on after making his first senior appearance for
the Hammers on Saturday
15.07.2014
West Ham United Academy starlet Josh Cullen enjoyed an excellent 2013/14
campaign and is already reaping the rewards with a maiden first-team
appearance at Stevenage on Saturday. Last year's recipient of the Dylan
Tombides Award for the Academy's player of the season, Cullen joined the
fray with 83 minutes gone at the Lamex Stadium and was party to the late
surge that saw the Hammers net twice in the dying minutes.
Far from being a bystander, the 18-year-old had a hand in the Hammers'
opener, wrestling back possession and sliding in Guy Demel, whose cross
picked out the stooping Matt Jarvis. All in all, a promising start for the
youngster, who was understandably thrilled with his first taste of senior
football at West Ham.
"That's what I've been looking to do ever since I was a little kid, to be in
West Ham's first team," he told West Ham TV. "So it's great to get out there
with good players, good professionals. It was lovely to be out there. "I've
travelled a few times and haven't made it onto the pitch, so it was nice to
get on the pitch. It was lovely to be alongside players like that, who have
that experience. Hopefully there are many more [appearances] to come, so
that I can keep learning and keep progressing."
As for Saturday's showing, Cullen was buoyed by his contribution, confident
that he had done himself justice and satisfied to have salvaged a draw.
He continued: "I thought I did alright, I didn't feel out of my comfort
zone, so hopefully that's a good sign and now I've just got to keep pushing
on in training and see if that opportunity can come along again. "It's
always nice not to lose games, especially when you're 2-0 down and we manage
to get a draw out of the game and a bit of confidence. But it's more about
staying clear of injuries and getting minutes under our belts. It's nice to
get the draw but fitness is key."
Looking ahead, Cullen remains unsure of just how his pre-season is likely to
pan out, but is intent on making an impression, whether with Nick Haycock's
Development Squad or in and around the first-team squad. "I've done
one-and-a-half solid weeks with the U21s, so I feel good and ready to keep
pushing on in pre-season," he confirmed. "Hopefully by the time the season
comes around I'll be in top shape. "Obviously I'd love to be involved with
the first team but if I am involved with the 21s, I've just got to try and
keep performing and hopefully I can push my way into being involved with the
first team. No matter how much time you get on the pitch you've got to
impress, to try and look comfortable out there. Catch the manager's eye and
if you can do that, hopefully more chances will come along. I've got to
focus on my game, keep improving and see where it takes me."
Cullen could yet feature at Havant & Waterlooville on Tuesday evening, as
Haycock's men embark on their second pre-season outing, following Saturday's
2-2 stalemate against Hornchurch at Little Heath. One young Hammer,
however, who will not be involved is George Moncur, following his loan move
to SkyBet League One outfit Colchester United. The 20-year-old midfielder is
currently set to remain with the U's until Thursday 7 August.
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HAMMERS FAN OFFERS HELP TO REDESIGN BADGE
By Sean Whetstone 15 Jul 2014 at 13:28
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Benjamin Anthonisz
I've been a West Ham supporter for 27 years now, my dad took me to Upton
Park for the first time when I was just 10 years old. Claret and blue runs
through the family and covers four generations now that my son, Finley, has
entered the fray. The conditions of my marriage were also based on the
wife's agreement to swap her loyalties from Chelsea to West Ham, which she
did thankfully. We're a real passionate bunch, and I completely understand
how important the hammers brand is to the club and fan base, which is why I
feel well placed to tackle a potential realignment to our iconic badge. I
love the original crest and ideally would prefer it to remain the same, but
with a heavy heart I appreciate the reasoning behind its alteration as I do
the relocation to the Olympic Stadium.
I have been a designer/illustrator for over 14 years and have worked on both
agency and client side for some of the largest brands in the country
including Playboy UK, LOVEFiLM, Samsung, Grolsch, NFL UK, Ask Frank and
Moonpig to name but a few. I'm a focussed and determined guy and love what I
do – a perfectionist some might say.
When I saw what the club were proposing as a possible replacement for the
crest I was saddened as I don't feel it's a true reflection of what West Ham
is about, nor our history and exciting future. I thought to myself, 'I could
do a better job'. So, after reacquainting myself with the clubs heritage and
future plans I started getting some ideas down. I posted an early concept on
Twitter last week and got some invaluable feedback from fans which enabled
me to develop it further. These latest visuals are the same badge with and
without the Olympic Stadium and seem to have gone down well with the fans
and 2 young Sullivan's.
They still are very much a work in progress, but thus far the feedback and
support from the fans has really been overwhelming. I intend to take some of
these comments and move these designs to the next level.
It's hard to please everyone and I have my critics, but I have the best
intentions and hope to create something that tells our story and excites the
club/fans.
I've not had any communication from West Ham during this period but hope my
next iteration will turn some heads inside Upton Park.
If you'd like to keep an eye on my developments, please follow me on
Twiiter: @76KlD
#COYI Ben
UPDATE: Based on feedback from his initial post Ben has added these designs
which replace the ball with a castle.
Note from Sean: Over the weekend Joint Chairman David Gold commented he
actually liked Ben's design which included the Olympic Stadium. Some Hammers
fans commented that the ball was too Spurs like which in response Gold said
"Maybe we could take a look at it without the ball dg". It is understood
that over 35% of supporters would like a representation of the Olympic
Stadium on the new crest based on responses from the recent consultation on
a possible change of crest.
The official YouGov poll finished on Friday 6pm and the Hammers are
nervously awaiting the results after many of social media said they didn't
like the club's proposed design. The WHTID poll showed 38% in favor 49%
against with 12% unsure while a KUMB Poll showed 21% in favor 65% against
and 12% unsure. The official results should be released soon.
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LEICESTER WANT DEMEL
By Iain Dale 15 Jul 2014 at 08:44
West Ham Till I Die
The Daily Mail is reporting that we are thinking of letting Guy Demel go to
Leicester City on a free. Now, I have nothing against letting Demel go, but
why on earth would we let him go on a free? Isn't he still under contract?
I'd have thought some sort of fee would be in order even if he has reached
the ripe old age of 33.
Or is there something I don't know?
In other transfer news, Enner Valencia has passed a medical but there are
still things to tie up with his club in Mexico and personal terms to
address. Let's hope this is done quickly, but it may drag things out a
little. The "Mirror" report that we are in competition with Porto for 21
year old Stuttgart centre back Antonio Rudiger. He will cost £8 million. I
do think we need another centre back, but I wonder whether he is seen as a
replacement for Winston Reid, if he won't sign a new deal.
Meanwhile "Claret & Hugh" reckons WBA are in for Stewart Downing, but only
on a season long loan.
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Crystal Palace and West Ham on red alert as Bruce admits Hull talks have
stalled with Tottenham star
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Crystal Palace and West Ham have been placed on red alert after Hull manager
Steve Bruce revealed they have reached a stalemate with Tottenham over a
move to sign Michael Dawson. The Tottenham captain was strongly expected to
make a move back to Yorkshire and complete a move to Hull after weeks of
uncertainty surrounding his future. Dawson looks to be heading through the
exit door at White Hart Lane following the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as
Tottenham's new head coach. "As far as Michael is concerned, it's stalemate
and at the moment we are as far away as we can be from doing a deal," Bruce
said. The experienced defender is determined to secure a regular first-team
place next season but he appears to be at odds with the north London club
over his pay-off as he is due a testimonial in January following his
ten-year stay. If the two parties can strike a deal, both Tony Pulis and Sam
Allardyce could be ready to make their move for the 30-year-old.
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Collison linked with Forest switch
Soccernews.com
Nottingham Forest are considering a move for former West Ham United
midfielder Jack Collison, according to Talksport. The midfielder was
released by Hammers boss Sam Allardyce at the end of last season, after
making over a hundred appearances for the club since breaking into the first
team in 2008.
Forest were linked with the 25 year old back in January, though he opted for
a temporary move to Wigan Athletic, where he made ten appearances before
returning to Upton Park. He also had a loan spell with Bournemouth earlier
in the 2013/14 campaign, while internationally he has been capped twelve
times for Wales. The East Midlands side have already brought in four players
this summer, as they look to improve on last season's eleventh place finish.
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West Ham approach Rangers about Remy
Loic Remy of QPR
15/07/2014
By David McIntyre
West Ham have made an enquiry about Loic Remy. The Hammers asked about the
France striker but are not expected to follow up their interest after being
told the terms of his QPR contract mean clubs outside the top four would
have to pay a significantly larger transfer fee. Arsenal have also expressed
an interest but appear to have been put off by Remy's wage demands – he is
hoping to secure a pay rise to around the £90,000-a-week mark should he move
on this summer. Remy, 27, joined QPR from Marseille for £8m in January last
year on the understanding it could help him secure a move to a leading
English club.
His departure after Rangers' relegation from the top flight was therefore
inevitable and he spent last season on loan at Newcastle, where he scored 14
goals in 26 league appearances. Newcastle are keen to sign him on a
permanent basis but Remy would rather play in London. QPR chairman Tony
Fernandes wants him to stay at Loftus Road.
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Hammers: "No Newcastle bid for Carroll"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew's hunt for a new striker appears to have sparked
the usual summer speculation that Andy Carroll is back on his wanted list.
Rumours started on social media networks last night that the £16 million
signing could make a Tyneside return this summer for a knockdown £10.5
million.
However, at the Boleyn this morning ClaretandHugh was told: "There has been
no bid or inquiry for the players. We have heard nothing from Newcastle and
I'm sure we might have done!" Reports in northern newspapers repeat the
claims that Carroll's name has been thrown into the mix by a person they
describe as an "intermediary as Newcastle boss Alan Pardew steps up his
search for a striker." But they confirm Claret and Hugh's information that
no formal approach has been made for the player and point out his wage
demands would be an issue at a club where he would easily be the top earner.
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Valencia will take Irons close to transfer kitty limit
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham will have spent the majority of their transfer kitty once they
compete the deal for Enner Valencia unless the raise funds from sales of the
current squad. The Hammers are hoping to conclude the deal Valencia by
tomorrow (Wed) and will have then concluded the majority of their business
via current available funds. The club Hammers are known to put a £25 million
ceiling on their transfer market dealing from season to season and a
Valencia deal will take this season spend to around the limit. Cheikhou
Kouyaté at £8 million, Aaron Cresswell (£3.75m) Diego Poyet ( less than a
million ) and Valencia will take up to win around £3 million of the club's
usual limit. And ClaretandHugh was told: "If we buy Valencia or somebody
similar, the money is gone. There could be some low price signings but
unless we lose any players what will be it."
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The agent of Antonio Rudiger says West Ham United are interested in the
defender's services
4:00pm Tuesday 15th July 2014 in News
East London and West Essex Guardian Series
The agent of Stuttgart centre-back Antonio Rudiger has confirmed West Ham's
interest in the young defender. Rudiger, 21, has been on Sam Allardyce's
radar since earlier in the summer, with the Hammers set to launch an offer
for the defender. And Uli Ferber, Rudiger's agent, confirmed the Irons'
interest: "We know about the interest of these two clubs [Porto and West
Ham]. But we leave things to VfB [Stuttgart], to who Toni is under
contract." A full German international, Rudiger made his international debut
against Poland in May of this year and has previously represented Die
Mannschaft at Under-18, Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 level. Berlin-born
Rudiger made 35 league and cup appearances for Stuttgart last term.
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Irons react to Rudiger speculation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have no plans to move for highly rated Stuttgart defender Antonio
Rudiger. Widespread reports the 21 year old is on the Irons wish list and
that both he and Enner Valencia could be on the 'plane for the pre-season
are wide of the mark. The Hammers are still hoping to complete Valencia's
switch before the end of the week and hopefully as early as tomorrow with an
insider telling ClaretandHugh a few minutes ago: "We are close but it will
be done when it's done – or otherwise! "The lawyers dealing with the
contract are in South America and that causes problems given the time lapse
etc." Sam Allardyce is a big admirer of Rudiger but a source inside the
Boleyn said tonight: "He's a top player but we haven't got that sort of cash
available. "For the media to report that that we hold a serious interest is
wrong. If we do the Valencia deal – or somebody like him – as I said before
the money is gone and it will be about loanees and cheap signings."
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WHUFC.com
Team news, ticket and travel details and much more ahead of West Ham
United's trip to Portman Road
15.07.2014
IPSWICH TOWN v WEST HAM UNITED
PRE-SEASON MATCH
PORTMAN ROAD
WEDNESDAY 15 JULY 2014
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: ANDY WOOLMER
In brief
West Ham United contest their second pre-season fixture with a trip to
Portman Road to take on Championship side Ipswich Town.
The Hammers opened their preparations for 2014/15 with a 2-2 draw with
Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium on Saturday, where late goals from Matt
Jarvis and Stewart Downing saw them recover from two goals down to share the
spoils.
Manager Sam Allardyce will take a strong squad to Suffolk, with new boy
Mauro Zarate and fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Carlton Cole hoping to
make their first appearances after missing Saturday's game.
Ipswich also kicked-off their own pre-season fixture list on Saturday, when
they ran out 4-0 winners at League of Ireland First Division side Shelbourne
in Dublin.
You can join the conversation on social media by clicking on the relevant
links above using the hashtag #IPSWHU.
Who are they?
Ipswich Town was founded in 1878 but did not turn professional until 1936,
joining the Football League two years later.
The Tractor Boys were promoted to the top flight in 1961, winning the title
for the only time in their history the following season. Perhaps Ipswich's
finest era was in the late 1970s and early 1980s when, under future England
manager Bobby Robson, they were twice runners-up in Division One, won the FA
Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981.
In more recent times, Ipswich have spent five seasons in the Premier League
in two spells. The Suffolk side has spent the last 12 seasons in the second
tier, reaching the Play-Offs twice in 2004 and 2005, when they were
eliminated on both occasions by West Ham United.
One quirky fact about Ipswich is that they have never lost at home in
European competition - a record spanning 31 matches over 45 years!
Team news
Sam Allardyce is again expected to utilise the majority of his squad at
Portman Road, with new boy Mauro Zarate and fellow forwards Andy Carroll and
Carlton Cole hoping to make their first appearances after missing Saturday's
game at Stevenage with minor ailments. Former Ipswich left-back Aaron
Cresswell is expected to feature against the club he left to join West Ham
last month.
Ipswich have replaced Cresswell with Norway international Jonathan Parr from
Crystal Palace. Manager Mick McCarthy has also drafted in wingers Cameron
Stewart and Alex Henshall from Hull City and Manchester City respectively to
further strengthen the left side of his squad. Striker Darren McQueen has
joined Ipswich from Tottenham Hotspur and was among the scorers at
Shelbourne.
Referee
Saturday's referee will be Andy Woolmer, a Northampton-based postman.
Forty-eight year old Woolmer is a long-serving Football League official who
is also on the Premier League assistant referee list - a role he fulfilled
at the 2003 League Cup final and Community Shield at the Millennium Stadium
later the same year.
Woolmer has never refereed West Ham in a competitive fixture. However, he
did take charge of a friendly match between a Hammers XI and Northampton
Town at Sixfields Stadium in August 2012.
Woolmer will be assisted by Ian Rathbone and Mark Scholes, while his fourth
official will be Dean Whitestone.
One to watch
Ipswich Town
Cameron Stewart is a 23-year-old left-sided midfield player who came through
the youth ranks at Manchester United, but failed to make a first-team
appearance for the Red Devils. After loan spells with Yeovil Town and Hull
City, Stewart joined the latter on a permanent basis in January 2011 for
£300,000.
A former England U20 international, Stewart recovered from a serious knee
injury to play 32 times during the 2011/12 season, including an appearance
as a half-time substitute in the Tigers' 2-1 Championship defeat at West Ham
on the final day of the campaign. With first-team opportunities becoming
increasingly limited at Hull, Stewart was loaned to Burnley, Blackburn
Rovers, Charlton Athletic and Leeds United during the previous two seasons
before moving to Ipswich on a free transfer on 1 July this year.
A lively 5'8 winger with good pace, Stewart will hope to make an impact at
Portman Road.
West Ham United
West Ham United could hand a first appearance in Claret and Blue to forward
Mauro Zarate, who became the Hammers' first summer signing when he agreed to
a move from Argentine club Velez Sarsfield.
A skilful attacker capable of playing in a centre forward or withdrawn role
and scoring spectacular goals, the Haedo-born player also numbers Birmingham
City, Qatari side Al-Sadd and Italian giants Lazio and Internazionale among
his former clubs.
Small in stature, but strong, elusive and technically excellent, Zarate
finished as leading scorer in Argentina's 2014 Primera Division Torneo Final
with 13 goals in 19 appearances.
Tickets
West Ham United have been allocated of 2,000 Standard Tickets.
Tickets can no longer be bought online from West Ham United. However,
tickets will be available to purchase (cash only) from the Cobbold Stand
Away Turnstiles from 6.30pm on matchday.
Standard Ticket prices: £15 Adults, £10 Concessions (60+/U20s/Students), £3
U16s
Disabled Tickets can be purchase directly from Warner Duff, Ipswich Town
Disability Officer on 01473 400 556 (normal office hours only).
Disabled Ticket prices: £10 Wheelchair/Ambulant disabled with complimentary
carer*
Travel
Coach travel
There will be no coach travel for this fixture.
By car
Address: Portman Road, Ipswich, IP1 2DA
Distance from the Boleyn Ground: 76 miles
Directions: Motorists are encouraged to initially take the M11 or A13 out of
London, rather than the slower A12. From the M11 or A13, join the M25 and
link up with the northbound A12 at Junction 28. Follow the A12 for 52 miles
before reaching a large roundabout. Take the second exit onto the A1214
(London Road) into Ipswich. Go straight over a roundabout after 0.4 miles
and continue for two miles before turning right into A137 (West End Road) at
the bottom of the hill. After 0.6 miles, turn left onto Russell Road and
Portman Road stadium will be on your right. There are three Pay and Display
car parks in Portman Road itself, while the city centre location means
on-street parking is virtually non-existent. There are a number of other car
parks located in the town centre which are sign posted, plus there is a
multi-storey car park located next to the railway station
By train
Tickets: An Adult return between London Liverpool Street and Stevenage
starts from £38.90.
Before the match: Ipswich railway station is within five minutes walking
distance of Portman Road. Direct services leave London Liverpool Street at
.00, .02, .30 and .32 minutes past the hour, taking between 58 minutes and
one hour and 25 minutes to complete their journey. To reach the stadium,
cross B1075 (Burrell Road) in front of the station and walk straight ahead
along Princes Street. You should be able to see the floodlights directly in
front of you. Cross the A137 and bear left, turning into Russell Road and
the stadium is on your right-hand side.
After the match: Fast services leave Ipswich for Liverpool Street at 21.43,
22.23, 22.43. Supporters should note that the 22.43 is the final service
back to London.
Where to go for a pre-match drink/meal
The main away pub is the Riverside (Station) Hotel, which is located close
to the railway station and is only a five-minute walk from Portman Road.
Otherwise, the Punch & Judy on Cardinal Park is also close to the stadium
and is open to both sets of supporters. The town centre has a good variety
of eating and drinking options, as you might expect, including real ale pubs
Lord Nelson in Fore Street and Dove Street Inn in St Helen's Street.
Weather
The forecast is for a warm evening with sunny intervals and a maximum
temperature of 20C (68F).
Last meeting
West Ham United last travelled to Ipswich Town for a pre-season fixture on 4
August 2012. The Hammers were beaten 3-1 through goals from Jay
Emmanuel-Thomas, Luke Chambers and Jason Scotland, with Matt Taylor netting
the visitors' consolation. The game saw Aaron Cresswell line up against his
future employers, while Mark Noble started against the club where he spent a
period on loan as a youngster.
Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham United
Pre-season match, 4 August 2012, Portman Road
Ipswich Town: Loach, Edwards (Ainsley 61), Cresswell (Whight 85), Chambers,
Smith (Delaney 61), Hyam (Murray 79), Carson, Luongo (Kourouma 71),
Emmanuel-Thomas (Lawrence 67), Martin, Chopra
Sub not used: Lee-Barrett
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen (Henderson 79), Demel, Reid, Collins, Potts
(O'Brien 46), O'Neil (Moncur 77), Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga (Maynard 61),
Cole (Fanimo 74)
Sub not used: Lletget
Old boys
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble played 13 Championship matches on loan
for Ipswich in the 2006/07 season, with his first senior goal coming on 12
September 2006 in a 2-1 home win against Coventry City.
Hammers new boys Aaron Cresswell enjoyed three outstanding seasons with the
Tractor Boys, making nearly 150 appearances and earning Player of the Year
honours in 2012. Last season, his outstanding all-round displays saw
Cresswell voted into the Championship Team of the Year by his fellow
professionals.
Ipswich forward Frank Nouble joined the Tractor Boys from Wolverhampton
Wanderers in January 2013 and has since chalked up 58 appearances and four
goals for the Suffolk club. Previously, the 22-year-old Chelsea Academy
graduate spent three seasons with West Ham between 2009 and 2012, scoring
one goal in 19 games.
A number of players have played for both clubs down the years, including Lee
Chapman, Kieron Dyer, Justin Fashanu, Craig Forrest, Paul Goddard, Matt
Holland, Kevin Horlock, Robert Johnstone, John Lyall, Andy Nelson, Phil
Parkes, Stuart Slater, Gavin Williams and Richard Wright.
The late, great John Lyall managed Ipswich Town between May 1990 and
December 1994. The man who won the 1980 FA Cup with West Ham enjoyed further
success at Portman Road, guiding the Tractor Boys to the Division Two title
in 1991/92, ensuring the club would be members of the inaugural Premier
League. He later took the role of Director of Football at Portman Road.
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Ravel undergoes minor groin surgery
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has undergone successful
minor groin surgery
15.07.2014
West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has undergone successful
minor groin surgery. The 21-year-old was diagnosed with the condition during
pre-season testing and had a minor procedure at a central London hospital on
Tuesday afternoon. The operation was completed without complications and,
following a period of rehabilitation, it is expected the England U21
midfielder will return to training in a few weeks when the first-team squad
return from New Zealand. The No15 has scored five goals in 22 first-team
appearances since joining the Hammers from Manchester United in January
2012, scoring the Club's Goal of the Season in a 3-0 Barclays Premier League
victory at Tottenham Hotspur in November last year. The Wythenshawe-born
player also featured 17 times for Queens Park Rangers on loan last season,
scoring six goals to help the Hoops win promotion from the Championship.
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Determined Downing reaps reward
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing's late leveller sent the travelling fans home happy at
Stevenage on Saturday
14.07.2014
Stewart Downing was pleased on a personal and collective level following
Saturday's 2-2 draw with Stevenage. West Ham United kicked off their
pre-season schedule in an interesting game that saw them come back from two
goals down, with Downing heading a last-minute leveller in front of the
travelling Claret and Blue Army. Matt Jarvis had earlier pulled one back
with a diving header from a Guy Demel centre, before he turned provider for
the tireless Downing to nod in at the far post with just seconds left on the
clock. Earlier, West Ham had conceded two sloppy goals either side of
half-time to leave themselves with a mountain to climb, but they showed
admirable spirit to snatch a share of the spoils late on. Tickets for
Wednesday's game at Ipswich, which kicks off at 7.45pm, are available by
clicking here. Adult tickets are priced at just £15 and concessions £10 "On
a personal level, to get through the 45 minutes and get a goal was good,"
Downing said. "We're obviously disappointed with the goals we conceded but
we've still got time to put that right. I think the most important thing was
that everyone got through it with no niggles. Everyone is fit and well."
Indeed, with a clean bill of health reported and the debut performances of
Aaron Creswell, Diego Poyet and Cheikhou Kouyate all adding encouragement,
the afternoon was a useful first outing. Up next for Big Sam's side is a
trip to Ipswich Town on Wednesday before they fly to New Zealand for a
high-profile tour the following day. "Stevenage were a couple of weeks ahead
of us so it was a hard game. The new lads played quite well but I'm sure
they will have found it tough as well," Downing added. "If we can get a good
result on Wednesday, New Zealand will be a really good trip for the Club and
the fans. We've got some good games out there so it should be great. "It's
great for the players as well as we've never been out there and I'm sure the
jet lag will be fine!"
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Cullen keen on more of the same
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen wants to kick on after making his first senior appearance for
the Hammers on Saturday
15.07.2014
West Ham United Academy starlet Josh Cullen enjoyed an excellent 2013/14
campaign and is already reaping the rewards with a maiden first-team
appearance at Stevenage on Saturday. Last year's recipient of the Dylan
Tombides Award for the Academy's player of the season, Cullen joined the
fray with 83 minutes gone at the Lamex Stadium and was party to the late
surge that saw the Hammers net twice in the dying minutes.
Far from being a bystander, the 18-year-old had a hand in the Hammers'
opener, wrestling back possession and sliding in Guy Demel, whose cross
picked out the stooping Matt Jarvis. All in all, a promising start for the
youngster, who was understandably thrilled with his first taste of senior
football at West Ham.
"That's what I've been looking to do ever since I was a little kid, to be in
West Ham's first team," he told West Ham TV. "So it's great to get out there
with good players, good professionals. It was lovely to be out there. "I've
travelled a few times and haven't made it onto the pitch, so it was nice to
get on the pitch. It was lovely to be alongside players like that, who have
that experience. Hopefully there are many more [appearances] to come, so
that I can keep learning and keep progressing."
As for Saturday's showing, Cullen was buoyed by his contribution, confident
that he had done himself justice and satisfied to have salvaged a draw.
He continued: "I thought I did alright, I didn't feel out of my comfort
zone, so hopefully that's a good sign and now I've just got to keep pushing
on in training and see if that opportunity can come along again. "It's
always nice not to lose games, especially when you're 2-0 down and we manage
to get a draw out of the game and a bit of confidence. But it's more about
staying clear of injuries and getting minutes under our belts. It's nice to
get the draw but fitness is key."
Looking ahead, Cullen remains unsure of just how his pre-season is likely to
pan out, but is intent on making an impression, whether with Nick Haycock's
Development Squad or in and around the first-team squad. "I've done
one-and-a-half solid weeks with the U21s, so I feel good and ready to keep
pushing on in pre-season," he confirmed. "Hopefully by the time the season
comes around I'll be in top shape. "Obviously I'd love to be involved with
the first team but if I am involved with the 21s, I've just got to try and
keep performing and hopefully I can push my way into being involved with the
first team. No matter how much time you get on the pitch you've got to
impress, to try and look comfortable out there. Catch the manager's eye and
if you can do that, hopefully more chances will come along. I've got to
focus on my game, keep improving and see where it takes me."
Cullen could yet feature at Havant & Waterlooville on Tuesday evening, as
Haycock's men embark on their second pre-season outing, following Saturday's
2-2 stalemate against Hornchurch at Little Heath. One young Hammer,
however, who will not be involved is George Moncur, following his loan move
to SkyBet League One outfit Colchester United. The 20-year-old midfielder is
currently set to remain with the U's until Thursday 7 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
HAMMERS FAN OFFERS HELP TO REDESIGN BADGE
By Sean Whetstone 15 Jul 2014 at 13:28
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Benjamin Anthonisz
I've been a West Ham supporter for 27 years now, my dad took me to Upton
Park for the first time when I was just 10 years old. Claret and blue runs
through the family and covers four generations now that my son, Finley, has
entered the fray. The conditions of my marriage were also based on the
wife's agreement to swap her loyalties from Chelsea to West Ham, which she
did thankfully. We're a real passionate bunch, and I completely understand
how important the hammers brand is to the club and fan base, which is why I
feel well placed to tackle a potential realignment to our iconic badge. I
love the original crest and ideally would prefer it to remain the same, but
with a heavy heart I appreciate the reasoning behind its alteration as I do
the relocation to the Olympic Stadium.
I have been a designer/illustrator for over 14 years and have worked on both
agency and client side for some of the largest brands in the country
including Playboy UK, LOVEFiLM, Samsung, Grolsch, NFL UK, Ask Frank and
Moonpig to name but a few. I'm a focussed and determined guy and love what I
do – a perfectionist some might say.
When I saw what the club were proposing as a possible replacement for the
crest I was saddened as I don't feel it's a true reflection of what West Ham
is about, nor our history and exciting future. I thought to myself, 'I could
do a better job'. So, after reacquainting myself with the clubs heritage and
future plans I started getting some ideas down. I posted an early concept on
Twitter last week and got some invaluable feedback from fans which enabled
me to develop it further. These latest visuals are the same badge with and
without the Olympic Stadium and seem to have gone down well with the fans
and 2 young Sullivan's.
They still are very much a work in progress, but thus far the feedback and
support from the fans has really been overwhelming. I intend to take some of
these comments and move these designs to the next level.
It's hard to please everyone and I have my critics, but I have the best
intentions and hope to create something that tells our story and excites the
club/fans.
I've not had any communication from West Ham during this period but hope my
next iteration will turn some heads inside Upton Park.
If you'd like to keep an eye on my developments, please follow me on
Twiiter: @76KlD
#COYI Ben
UPDATE: Based on feedback from his initial post Ben has added these designs
which replace the ball with a castle.
Note from Sean: Over the weekend Joint Chairman David Gold commented he
actually liked Ben's design which included the Olympic Stadium. Some Hammers
fans commented that the ball was too Spurs like which in response Gold said
"Maybe we could take a look at it without the ball dg". It is understood
that over 35% of supporters would like a representation of the Olympic
Stadium on the new crest based on responses from the recent consultation on
a possible change of crest.
The official YouGov poll finished on Friday 6pm and the Hammers are
nervously awaiting the results after many of social media said they didn't
like the club's proposed design. The WHTID poll showed 38% in favor 49%
against with 12% unsure while a KUMB Poll showed 21% in favor 65% against
and 12% unsure. The official results should be released soon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LEICESTER WANT DEMEL
By Iain Dale 15 Jul 2014 at 08:44
West Ham Till I Die
The Daily Mail is reporting that we are thinking of letting Guy Demel go to
Leicester City on a free. Now, I have nothing against letting Demel go, but
why on earth would we let him go on a free? Isn't he still under contract?
I'd have thought some sort of fee would be in order even if he has reached
the ripe old age of 33.
Or is there something I don't know?
In other transfer news, Enner Valencia has passed a medical but there are
still things to tie up with his club in Mexico and personal terms to
address. Let's hope this is done quickly, but it may drag things out a
little. The "Mirror" report that we are in competition with Porto for 21
year old Stuttgart centre back Antonio Rudiger. He will cost £8 million. I
do think we need another centre back, but I wonder whether he is seen as a
replacement for Winston Reid, if he won't sign a new deal.
Meanwhile "Claret & Hugh" reckons WBA are in for Stewart Downing, but only
on a season long loan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Crystal Palace and West Ham on red alert as Bruce admits Hull talks have
stalled with Tottenham star
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Crystal Palace and West Ham have been placed on red alert after Hull manager
Steve Bruce revealed they have reached a stalemate with Tottenham over a
move to sign Michael Dawson. The Tottenham captain was strongly expected to
make a move back to Yorkshire and complete a move to Hull after weeks of
uncertainty surrounding his future. Dawson looks to be heading through the
exit door at White Hart Lane following the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as
Tottenham's new head coach. "As far as Michael is concerned, it's stalemate
and at the moment we are as far away as we can be from doing a deal," Bruce
said. The experienced defender is determined to secure a regular first-team
place next season but he appears to be at odds with the north London club
over his pay-off as he is due a testimonial in January following his
ten-year stay. If the two parties can strike a deal, both Tony Pulis and Sam
Allardyce could be ready to make their move for the 30-year-old.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collison linked with Forest switch
Soccernews.com
Nottingham Forest are considering a move for former West Ham United
midfielder Jack Collison, according to Talksport. The midfielder was
released by Hammers boss Sam Allardyce at the end of last season, after
making over a hundred appearances for the club since breaking into the first
team in 2008.
Forest were linked with the 25 year old back in January, though he opted for
a temporary move to Wigan Athletic, where he made ten appearances before
returning to Upton Park. He also had a loan spell with Bournemouth earlier
in the 2013/14 campaign, while internationally he has been capped twelve
times for Wales. The East Midlands side have already brought in four players
this summer, as they look to improve on last season's eleventh place finish.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham approach Rangers about Remy
Loic Remy of QPR
15/07/2014
By David McIntyre
West Ham have made an enquiry about Loic Remy. The Hammers asked about the
France striker but are not expected to follow up their interest after being
told the terms of his QPR contract mean clubs outside the top four would
have to pay a significantly larger transfer fee. Arsenal have also expressed
an interest but appear to have been put off by Remy's wage demands – he is
hoping to secure a pay rise to around the £90,000-a-week mark should he move
on this summer. Remy, 27, joined QPR from Marseille for £8m in January last
year on the understanding it could help him secure a move to a leading
English club.
His departure after Rangers' relegation from the top flight was therefore
inevitable and he spent last season on loan at Newcastle, where he scored 14
goals in 26 league appearances. Newcastle are keen to sign him on a
permanent basis but Remy would rather play in London. QPR chairman Tony
Fernandes wants him to stay at Loftus Road.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers: "No Newcastle bid for Carroll"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew's hunt for a new striker appears to have sparked
the usual summer speculation that Andy Carroll is back on his wanted list.
Rumours started on social media networks last night that the £16 million
signing could make a Tyneside return this summer for a knockdown £10.5
million.
However, at the Boleyn this morning ClaretandHugh was told: "There has been
no bid or inquiry for the players. We have heard nothing from Newcastle and
I'm sure we might have done!" Reports in northern newspapers repeat the
claims that Carroll's name has been thrown into the mix by a person they
describe as an "intermediary as Newcastle boss Alan Pardew steps up his
search for a striker." But they confirm Claret and Hugh's information that
no formal approach has been made for the player and point out his wage
demands would be an issue at a club where he would easily be the top earner.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia will take Irons close to transfer kitty limit
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham will have spent the majority of their transfer kitty once they
compete the deal for Enner Valencia unless the raise funds from sales of the
current squad. The Hammers are hoping to conclude the deal Valencia by
tomorrow (Wed) and will have then concluded the majority of their business
via current available funds. The club Hammers are known to put a £25 million
ceiling on their transfer market dealing from season to season and a
Valencia deal will take this season spend to around the limit. Cheikhou
Kouyaté at £8 million, Aaron Cresswell (£3.75m) Diego Poyet ( less than a
million ) and Valencia will take up to win around £3 million of the club's
usual limit. And ClaretandHugh was told: "If we buy Valencia or somebody
similar, the money is gone. There could be some low price signings but
unless we lose any players what will be it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The agent of Antonio Rudiger says West Ham United are interested in the
defender's services
4:00pm Tuesday 15th July 2014 in News
East London and West Essex Guardian Series
The agent of Stuttgart centre-back Antonio Rudiger has confirmed West Ham's
interest in the young defender. Rudiger, 21, has been on Sam Allardyce's
radar since earlier in the summer, with the Hammers set to launch an offer
for the defender. And Uli Ferber, Rudiger's agent, confirmed the Irons'
interest: "We know about the interest of these two clubs [Porto and West
Ham]. But we leave things to VfB [Stuttgart], to who Toni is under
contract." A full German international, Rudiger made his international debut
against Poland in May of this year and has previously represented Die
Mannschaft at Under-18, Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 level. Berlin-born
Rudiger made 35 league and cup appearances for Stuttgart last term.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons react to Rudiger speculation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have no plans to move for highly rated Stuttgart defender Antonio
Rudiger. Widespread reports the 21 year old is on the Irons wish list and
that both he and Enner Valencia could be on the 'plane for the pre-season
are wide of the mark. The Hammers are still hoping to complete Valencia's
switch before the end of the week and hopefully as early as tomorrow with an
insider telling ClaretandHugh a few minutes ago: "We are close but it will
be done when it's done – or otherwise! "The lawyers dealing with the
contract are in South America and that causes problems given the time lapse
etc." Sam Allardyce is a big admirer of Rudiger but a source inside the
Boleyn said tonight: "He's a top player but we haven't got that sort of cash
available. "For the media to report that that we hold a serious interest is
wrong. If we do the Valencia deal – or somebody like him – as I said before
the money is gone and it will be about loanees and cheap signings."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Tuesday, July 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th July 2014
Health checks for Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's players went through a range of health screening tests on
Monday
14.07.2014
West Ham United's players underwent a series of health screening tests on
Monday to make sure they are in the best possible condition ahead of the
2014/15 Barclays Premier League season. A range of healthcare professionals,
including staff from the Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) heart screening
charity, an optician and a dentist visited the Club's Chadwell Heath
training ground on Monday to run the rule over the entire first team squad.
Hammers head of medical Stijn Vandenbroucke told West Ham TV how useful the
screening process would prove over the course of the season. "Monday was the
screening day for the players," he said. "They came in groups of four from
8am to 7pm and we screen the heart, which is compulsory for the Premier
League and the FA, we screen the teeth which are important and connected
with the prevention of injury. We also screen their eyes because it's
obviously important for players to see the ball! "It's important not to have
any surprises during the season, because if you have a painful tooth that
may cost you one or two games. "So we try to be proactive on it and deal
with it before the season. Everyone is looking very good - body weight, fat
percentage and condition-wise. I have no complaints with that thanks to my
sports science department, who gave a very good off-season programme to the
players, and to the players themselves for following them very well. I'm
happy."
Professor Sanjay Sharma, a Professor of Inherited Cardiovascular Conditions
and Sports Cardiology at St George's Hospital in London, and representing
the team from CRY, explained the importance of identifying players with
potential heart problems across all sports. He said: "We're here with the
Cardiac Risk in the Young screening team to test all the players for
conditions of the heart that could result in sudden cardiac death. "We're
making the players fill in a health questionnaire which asks them about
symptoms of heart disease and their family history. The latter is quite
important because most of the conditions which cause sudden death in
sportsmen are genetic. "Clearly if there's a football player whose father
died at 40 or so, that makes us slightly more concerned about how detailed
we are with our assessment. "We also do an electrocardiogram (ECG) which
gives us some idea of electrical faults of the heart and a cardiac
ultrasound, which gives us some ideas of abnormalities, if any, of cardiac
structure. This is the most important test because it picks up very serious
conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which are the commonest
causes of sudden cardiac death in sportsmen. "Being here at West Ham, one
thing we can never forget is the brilliance of Marc-Vivien Foe, who played
here and went on to die three or four years later during a Confederations
Cup game, which was televised [in 2003]. "That really did create shockwaves
in the entire sporting community and we have come a long way in the ten
years since. We saw what happened with Fabrice Muamba, we saw the awareness,
the speed with which the doctors and paramedics were on the pitch, and those
amazing heroic efforts on the pitch, which led to a young man who is alive
and kicking now. "The Premier League should be acknowledged for what they're
doing in this field - it's very laudable and in general every single club
ensures their players are tested once a year. "I'm delighted to report that
everyone at West Ham is in good health and also in very good shape with the
season coming up."
For Diego Poyet, recently signed from Charlton Athletic, such an extensive
examination was something new. "Monday was a new experience for me, it's the
first time I've done it, but apparently everything has gone fine so I'm
pleased with that," he confirmed. "The awareness when it comes to heart
screening is growing all the time, especially when you think of cases like
Fabrice Muamba's. "It's important for players to know that they're well
whilst they're playing, but also for when they stop."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Four Hammers games moved
WHUFC.com
Four of West Ham United's early-season fixtures have been moved to new
kick-off times
14.07.2014
Four West Ham United fixtures have been moved during the opening months of
the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League season. The Hammers' home fixtures with
Liverpool and champions Manchester City have both been allocated new
kick-off times, while the visit of newly-promoted Queens Park Rangers and
away game at Hull City have been moved to new dates.
The quartet of matches will now take place at the following times and dates:
*Hull City v West Ham United, Monday 15 September 2014, 8pm
*West Ham United v Liverpool, Saturday 20 September 2014, 5.30pm
*West Ham United v Queens Park Rangers, Sunday 5 October 2014, 4.15pm
*West Ham United v Manchester City, Saturday 25 October 2014, 12.45pm
Don't forget, the only way to guarantee your seat for every home game is to
purchase a Season Ticket. To do so, please click here. In the meantime, West
Ham will contest six further pre-season matches ahead of the big kick-off at
home to Tottenham Hotspur at 3pm on Saturday 16 August. Wednesday evening
will see the Hammers make the short trip up the A12 to Ipswich Town, where
tickets are still available for a 7.45pm kick-off at Portman Road. The
following day, Sam Allardyce and his squad will board a plane to the other
side of the world for the Football United Tour of New Zealand. That trip
will see West Ham take on A-League Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on 23 July
and Sydney FC in Wellington on 26 July. Tickets for both games are selling
fast but are still available to buy here. It is then off to Germany for the
Schalke 04 Cup in Gelsenkirchen over the weekend of 2/3 August, when the
Hammers will square off against the host club and Spanish side Malaga.
Tickets for the Schalke 04 Cup are available to buy here. West Ham will
complete their pre-season schedule by welcoming Italian Serie A club
Sampdoria to the Boleyn Ground for a 3pm kick-off on Saturday 9 August. To
secure your seat now, click here. **Supporters should note that all fixtures
are subject to change.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam ready for Ipswich test
WHUFC.com
West Ham United travel to Ipswich Town on Wednesday for their next
pre-season fixture
14.07.2014
Sam Allardyce is looking forward to seeing new signing Aaron Cresswell take
on his former Club Ipswich Town in the Hammers' latest pre-season fixture on
Wednesday. The left-back has arrived in east London from the Tractor Boys,
having impressed hugely during three seasons at Portman Road. Voted into the
2013/14 PFA Championship Team of the Year by his fellow professionals, the
24-year-old has long been considered one of the best players outside the
Barclays Premier League. Now, he will be given a chance to prove that he can
excel at the highest level too, and manager Allardyce is predicting that he
has the physical, technical and mental attributes to make a positive impact
in a Hammers shirt. Tickets for Wednesday's game at Ipswich, which kicks off
at 7.45pm, are available by clicking here. Adult tickets are priced at just
£15 and concessions £10 "Aaron is a very interesting case because, as far as
we looked at other targets, when I looked at his career history, spoke to
[Ipswich manager] Mick McCarthy and looked at what he has done in the last
couple of years, he was right on the doorstep," Big Sam told West Ham TV.
"He started at 17 at Tranmere Rovers and played 70 games and Paul Jewell
took him to Ipswich when he became manager there. He has played nearly every
game over the last three seasons, so he never misses any games through
injury. "He is 24-years-old and there has been a very good, steady
development over those years. He has over 200 games in the bag and, after
moving from League One to the Championship. He was in the PFA Team of the
Year last season, so all of the players he played against saw him as the
best left-back in the Championship. "Of course, the price was right, which
was the biggest factor in our transfer dealings this season - if the player
is right and the price is right, we do the deal. The biggest stumbling block
is the size of the fees that are being asked for today. "This one was a
very, very good signing indeed, not just for right now but also for the
future."
Cresswell is very much a modern-day left-back - he is quick, technically
gifted, eager to get forward and possesses the ability to provide accurate
and telling deliveries into dangerous areas. Having missed just six
Championship matches over the previous three seasons, the Liverpool-born
full-back has also developed a reputation for his consistent level of
performance. Now, Big Sam says Cresswell's biggest challenge is taking that
consistency into one of the most competitive and best divisions in the
world. "Today, physical capabilities are a big part of your recruitment
process - he is a 24-year-old with great physical attributes as well as
great technique," confirmed his new manager. "I think learning about playing
in the Premier League is what we hope he can take up quickly. "The physical
attribute is there because the physical impact of playing in the
Championship is greater than that of playing in the Premier League -
something I learnt for the first time when I took West Ham up after joining
the Club in 2011. "Of course, in the Premier League, there is the mental
pressure and the extra bit of quality, living against some of the best
players in the world. That's what he needs to learn and cope with and all
the rest will fall into place.
"Hopefully it will be a smooth and easy transition for Aaron and we look
forward to him making a big contribution this year."
Cresswell will return to Portman Road with his new West Ham team-mates for a
pre-season fixture with Ipswich on Wednesday 16 July.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United close in on Ecuador striker Enner Valencia
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United hope to sign Ecuador striker Enner Valencia from Mexican
club Pachuca this week. Valencia, 24, scored three goals at the Fifa World
Cup - two against Honduras and one against Switzerland - before Ecuador's
group-stage elimination. He was understood to be undergoing a medical at
West Ham on Monday. Valencia made his debut for Ecuadorian club side Emelec
in 2010 and went to make more than 100 appearances before joining Pachuca in
January this year. The forward scored 18 goals in 23 league games last
season. Valencia would become West Ham's fifth summer signing following the
captures of midfielder Diego Poyet from Charlton, striker Mauro Zarate from
Velez Sarsfield, Anderlecht's Senegal international midfielder Cheikhou
Kouyate and Ipswich full-back Aaron Cresswell.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
2014/15 TV dates announced
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 14th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are to be featured live on TV on four occasions during the
early part of the 2014/15 Premier League season.
The games - and the amended dates including broadcasters - are as follows:
Mon 15 Sept: Hull City v West Ham Utd (8pm, SS)
Sat 20 Sept: West Ham Utd v Liverpool (5:30pm, SS)
Sun 5 Oct: West Ham Utd v QPR (4:15pm, SS)
Sat 25 Oct: West Ham Utd v Man City (12.45pm, BT)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Albion deny Downing approach
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 14th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Bromwich Albion have denied reports that they are attempting to sign
West Ham's Stewart Downing on loan. Over the weekend reports emerged that
the Baggies were preparing to make an offer for the former England
international, who joined West Ham from Liverpool a year ago. However the
Birmingham Mail's Chris Lepkowski revealed this morning that officials at
West Brom had denied any interest in signing the 30-year-old winger.
"Spoken to #wba regarding Downing rumours," wrote Lepkowski on his twitter
feed this lunchtime. "Baggies genuinely bemused by claims they've approached
WHU. They insist there has been no approach. "Sources close to WHU are
stating the opposite. Might be some crossed wires somewhere or just someone
trying to drum up interest."
And Downing himself appeared to have little intention of leaving the Boleyn
Ground when speaking about the imminent arrival of World Cup star Enner
Valencia, who is set to become the club's fifth summer signing. "We need
competition for places so if we do get that new signing then he will be a
good addition to the squad," he said. "It's a big boost for the club and
it's good for the fans too. They will get excited that they see there are
new players coming in. "For large amounts of last season we played without
a striker so we do need options. We can't rely on Andy [Carroll] all season.
Andy was the big signing but he struggled with injuries last season, so
hopefully the new signings will take the pressure off him a little bit."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia deal set for rapid conclusion
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 14th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Enner Valencia will undergo a medical this afternoon ahead of a proposed
move to West Ham. The 24-year-old Ecuador international current plies his
trade in Mexico with CF Pachua but is set to become a Hammer should he
successfully complete the medical, which wakes place today. A centre forward
by trade, Valencia can also operate in an advanced position on either flank.
He scored three goals in the World Cup Finals despite his country failing to
qualify for the knockout stage of the tournament. Last month it was revealed
on KUMB how Valencia topped Sam Allardyce's summer transfer target list. The
fee, depending on which source you believe, will vary from £9million to
£15million. Chairman David Sullivan revealed at the weekend how he hoped the
club would complete its fifth summer signing 'within 72 hours'. "The players
we have signed so far were all high up on our list of priorities and I know
they will all add something different to our squad - exciting attacking
play, goalscoring and experience as well as potential," he said. "The
recruitment drive will carry on, though, as there are at least three more
positions we would like to strengthen. We are in advanced talks to secure
another one of our top targets and all being well we should get that deal
over the line in the next 72 hours."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham new boy Aaron Cresswell to make Ipswich farewells on Wednesday
Last Updated: 14/07/14 2:07pm
SSN
Former Ipswich full-back Aaron Cresswell is looking forward to a "proper
goodbye" at Portman Road when he returns with new club West Ham in a
friendly on Wednesday evening. The 24-year-old left Town this summer to sign
a five-year deal with the Hammers. He told the Tractor Boys' official
website: "It's great to have the chance to come back to Ipswich and properly
say my goodbyes to the players, the staff and the supporters. "Ipswich put
faith in me and I want to put on record my sincere thanks to the owner, Mick
McCarthy and Paul Jewell - who signed me - and the fans at Ipswich for their
fantastic support over the past three years." Cresswell came through the
system at Tranmere before moving to Ipswich in 2011, where he would go on to
make over 140 appearances. He added: "It was difficult to leave the club as
I'd built up a great relationship with everyone there but like any player I
want to play in the Premier League and joining a fantastic club like West
Ham is a great opportunity for me. "I genuinely wish Ipswich every success
for the season ahead and I'll be keeping an eye on their results."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Enner Valencia undergoing medical at West Ham
Last Updated: 14/07/14 4:12pm
SSN
Ecuador striker Enner Valencia is undergoing a medical at West Ham. Valencia
will cost West Ham close to the club-record £15m they paid Liverpool for
striker Andy Carroll. The 25-year-old scored all three of Ecuador's World
Cup goals in Brazil this summer, attracting the attention of a number of
Premier League suitors in the process. But Hammers boss Sam Allardyce looks
set to have won the race to sign him, and provided he passes his medical and
agrees personal terms, the striker will leave his Mexican club Pachuca for
east London on a reported five-year deal. He will become West Ham's fifth
signing of the summer, joining Argentine striker Mauro Zarate, centre-back
or midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, Ipswich Town left-back Aaron Cresswell and
Charlton midfielder Diego Poyet at the club. Pachuca chairman Jesus Martinez
said last week that he wants any deal to include clauses that would see
Pachuca benefit if Valencia was to move on. "There are various offers for
Enner Valencia, the strongest and closest to what the player and us are
demanding is from a club from England," he told Ecuagol. "I won't talk about
prices, but if he is sold, it will be the highest transfer fee ever in
Mexican football football, otherwise he won't be sold. We are seeking the
possibility that is convenient for him and the club and that he is sold for
the price that we like. We want to keep a percentage of the player in case
he is sold in the future to another big team in Europe. "It hurts me, I
don't want to sell him and neither does the manager or the fans but we can't
go against the career the kid aspires to."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DO WE REALLY NEED ANOTHER FOUR SIGNINGS?
By Sean Whetstone 14 Jul 2014 at 17:38
West Ham Till I Die
Big Sam speaking ahead of the Stevenage game on West Ham TV was asked about
what further signings we could expect this summer:
"It depends on the budget, there is still room for a central defender
particularly a left footed done because we do run with three not four
ideally another left back to go along with Aaron and a front line player and
the possibility of a midfield player as well"
We all know the front line player Sam is talking about is Enner Valencia who
should be signing on Wednesday if everything goes to plan. If he joins he
will join Andy Carroll, Carlton Cole, Mauro Zarate, Ricardo Vaz Te but we
should also remember we have Jaanai Gordon, Paul McCallum, Elliot Lee and
Sean Macguire all with a first team squad number coming through and waiting
in the wings.
The central defender comment is a strange one, in addition to Winston Reid,
James Collins and James Tomkins we know that Kouyate can play centre back as
cover as it was his primary position up to very recently. If we needed a
fifth centre back why not blood the 6ft 3 youngster Reece Oxford on the
bench who is the interest of Chelsea and Arsenal. He has already trained
with the first team at the age of 15.
Sam also mentioned the Left Back position. It is assumed Aaron Cresswell
will be the primary choice for the left back position but we know Joey
O'Brien who play left back as well as right back and Stuart Downing can also
left back as cover as he did for Liverpool on more than one occasion. We
also shouldn't forget Dan Potts who signed a one year contract extension
this summer. He has made five first team appearances so far for the Hammers.
Another one coming through the ranks is supposed to be teenager Oscar Borg
who has attracted from elsewhere. Cresswell himself only missed four games
all of last season at Ipswich so if he makes the step up to Premier League
he won't want to give up his spot up any time soon.
As for another midfielder we have them coming out of ears in addition to
Matt Jarvis, Kevin Nolan, Ravel Morrison, Mark Noble and Stewart Downing we
have added Cheikhou Kouyate and Diego Poyet. We also have the following
youngsters with first squad numbers Blair Turgott, George Moncurr, Danny
Whitehead, Sebastian Lletget and Matthias Fanimo. Why would we need another
cheap midfielder?
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WEST HAM SET TO BREACH WAGE CAP TO KEEP REID
By Sean Whetstone 14 Jul 2014 at 13:30
West Ham Till I Die
West Ham are understood to have upped their previous offer of £50k per week
to £60k per week in an attempt to persuade Winston Reid to sign a new long
term contract. His advisers are believed to have asked as much as £75k per
week previously for a new contract. Reid and his advisors have been given
two weeks to decide but if he decides not to put pen to paper he may be
forced to play the next year on his existing contract terms barring a
transfer request in which case the Hammers would have little option but to
sell him.
The centre back joined West Ham in August 2010 on a three year contract for
a fee believed to be around £3m. This deal was later extended by two years
which takes him up to August 2015.His transfer fee was the subject of a
dispute between West Ham United and his former club FC Midtjylland as West
Ham withheld the fee to bring to UEFA's attention fees owing to them from
the sale of Alessandro Diamanti to Brescia.
He has made 93 appearances for West Ham scoring five goals against
opposition including against Milwall and Spurs. If the deal is agreed it
would make Reid the second highest earner in the club after Andy Carroll who
is though to earn £80k per week.
A 5 year deal would cost West Ham over £15m If he was sold this summer he
could raise around £6m but no official bids or inquiries have been received
to date.
The deal coincides with Reid going back to his New Zealand homeland for two
pre-season friendlies starting with Wellington Phoenix FC on 23rd July then
Sydney FC on the 26th July.Interestingly there doesn't appear to be an offer
on the table at the moment for Ravel Morrison if sources are to be believed.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ALOU DIARRA INTERVIEW ON HIS TIME AT WEST HAM - BY GET FRENCH FOOTBALL NEWS
(GFFN)
By S J Chandos 14 Jul 2014 at 08:30
West Ham Till I Die
Get French Football News (GFFN) have published a interview with former
Hammer, Alou Diarra. It is interesting in that it covers his views on why
his time in East London was unsuccessful, the reasons for the early,
mutually agreed, termination of his West Ham contract and what the future
holds for him. The following is a summary of some of the main points arising
from the interview.
GFFN posed the question, what were his memories of West Ham, were they
primarily good or bad?
Diarra's reported reply was that:
'Mixed, in all honesty, in terms of football (sportingly) it was not
positive. I learnt some things over there, I had a good relationship with
the fans, I saw the great passion surrounding this club. But personally, in
terms of football, I did not have a good record there. I arrived at a club
that didn't want me there. I was very badly advised. my philosophy and style
of play was basically incompatible with the philosophy of the manager in
place. I had to match a desired profile, which was to support to the squad,
but that was all, nothing more. I learnt nothing in terms of football
(sportingly) when I was at West Ham. I do not want to blame anyone, the
coach had his own style which he had implemented for several years. It turns
out that in the end, it was a very bad career choice for me.'
GFFN followed that up by asking, you were under contract until 2015, why did
you terminate your contract by mutual consent a year early?
Diarra was reported as replying:
'I'm a competitor and the game time that I was receiving at West Ham was not
enough. I was not satisfied in the first year. The second year I tried to
make an effort but nothing changed. I think it is for the benefit of both
parties, to terminate the deal amicably and leave on good terms; because
aside from the fact that in terms of football the deal did not work, I have
a good relationship with the club. I couldn't not stay in such a situation
any longer. I am a competitor first and foremost, I have aims to fulfil. I
did not sign for West Ham to get a good salary and sit on the bench. I want
to enjoy the remaining years of my career. I am still in very good
psychological and physical shape. It was difficult to coexist with a manager
who did not play with the same philosophy as me. We did not have the same
footballing vision. I remained profession throughout in terms of my
commitment and nobody can say otherwise. Sadly, I did not progress enough in
this team; the manager had his plans and I was not part of them.'
Asked what he thought awaited him next season, Diarra replied:
'At a footballing level, I see myself on the pitch, I see myself competing.
I would like to join a club that plays continental football if possible. If
it is not a club that plays in Europe, I will compete for that club with the
same ambition, a project and a manager who knows my qualities. That is what
I am waiting for. I am hungry to compete, because that is what I have been
missing in the last two years. I cannot wait to play every weekend and make
sure I stay at the best physical level possible. I am ready to face a new
challenge.'
GFFN concluded by asking what his aims were for next season and Diarra
responded by stating:
'First and foremost, to put myself into a club with ambition, with a real
project, where I have a role to play. The European cups have always
attracted me. Joining a club that plays in Europe is certainly part of my
aims yes. I have missed that enormously when I was at West Ham and I would
like to get that feeling again that allows me to play at a European level.
It gives teams prestige. To go to a club that is either qualifying for or
already in a European cup for me would be the best possible choice I could
make.'
There are some interesting, as well as fairly predictable responses from
Alou Diarra. What is marked by its absence is any reference to the fact that
both of Diarra's seasons with the club were characterised by prolonged
injury absence. Surely that was also an important factor determining the
outcome of his time at West Ham?
Still, what is done is done, good luck to the player in his future career.
The truth is that it is time for both the player and club (and it does cut
both ways!) to put a poor move behind them and look ahead! Lets certainly
hope that the club have learnt from it and there will be no more such
expensive transfer mistakes in future.
SJ. Chandos.
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Valencia medical starts as contract crosses globe
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 14, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Enner Valencia's switch to West Ham came a step closer today as the player
went through the first stages of his medical procedure at the club. However,
it will take up to 36-48 hours for the deal to be sealed – assuming there
are no snags or breakdowns! ClaretandHugh can reveal that the contract has
been sent the player's South American lawyers but time differences will
delay completion – or otherwise. In the meantime Valencia has had scans and
had blood tests at Chadwell Heath with a full medical booked for later aty
Holly House. Despite on line reports the deal has been done, ClaretandHugh
can reveal that there is still "some way to go."
An Upton Park insider released to us exclusively the procedure involved and
the stage we are currently at in negotiations. He said: "We are 36-48 hours
away at best given the time differences.However, we havestarted the medical
procedures today which invovle scans, blood tests and such like." "The
contract has now been sent to lawyers in South America who are five hours
behind and obviously there are discussion to take place and the normal time
taken to respond in such situations."
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West Ham plot transfer of Antonio Rudiger as this summer's sixth new arrival
Jul 14, 2014 22:30 By Darren Lewis
Hammers have made £8m move but face competition from Porto over the
21-year-old Stuttgart defender PLUS: Latest on Enner Valencia chase
The Mirror
West Ham are keen to make £8million Antonio Rudiger their sixth signing of
the summer. We revealed back in May that the Hammers had moved for the
21-year-old Stuttgart centre-back, regarded as one of the best young players
in the Bundesliga. Rudiger's has three years left on his contract but -
despite interest from Porto, whose centre-half Eliaquim Managala is a target
for Manchester City - the player is understood to be keen to play in the
Premier League. Confirming the Londoners' move, Rudiger's agent, Uli Ferber,
said: "We know about the interest of these two clubs [Porto and West Ham].
But we leave things to VfB [Stuttgart], to who Toni is under contract."
Elsewhere, the Irons are still at least 48 hours away from sealing their
fifth signing of the summer - £12million World Cup striker Enner Valencia.
The 25-year-old Ecuador international is set to sign a five-year deal, but
first has to complete a medical. West Ham will then attempt to secure a work
permit for him. Valencia scored all three of his country's World Cup goals
in Brazil, after netting 18 times in 23 games for Mexican side Pachuca last
season. West Ham have already signed striker Mauro Zarate from Lazio,
left-back Aaron Cresswell of Ipswich and midfielders Cheikhou Kouyate
(Anderlecht) and Diego Poyet, son of Sunderland manager Gus, from Charlton
this summer.
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Guy Demel wanted by Leicester City as West Ham ponder defender's future
Newly-promoted Foxes keen on move for Ivory Coast international
Hammers considering letting Demel leave on a free transfer
West Ham closing on the signing of Ecuador star Enner Valencia
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 22:29, 14 July 2014 | UPDATED: 22:29, 14 July 2014
Daily Mail
Leicester City are keen to sign West Ham defender Guy Demel. The former
Ivory Coast international featured 33 times for the Hammers last season, but
may be allowed to leave on a free. Nigel Pearson is busy bolstering his
Foxes squad following promotion from the Championship an is lining up a move
for the 33-year-old, who has also played for Borussia Dortmund and Hamburg.
Meanwhile, West Ham are continuing talks with Pachuca about an £11million
fee for striker Enner Valencia. The 24-year-old scored twice in three games
at the World Cup for Ecuador and is close to a move to Upton Park.
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United's players went through a range of health screening tests on
Monday
14.07.2014
West Ham United's players underwent a series of health screening tests on
Monday to make sure they are in the best possible condition ahead of the
2014/15 Barclays Premier League season. A range of healthcare professionals,
including staff from the Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) heart screening
charity, an optician and a dentist visited the Club's Chadwell Heath
training ground on Monday to run the rule over the entire first team squad.
Hammers head of medical Stijn Vandenbroucke told West Ham TV how useful the
screening process would prove over the course of the season. "Monday was the
screening day for the players," he said. "They came in groups of four from
8am to 7pm and we screen the heart, which is compulsory for the Premier
League and the FA, we screen the teeth which are important and connected
with the prevention of injury. We also screen their eyes because it's
obviously important for players to see the ball! "It's important not to have
any surprises during the season, because if you have a painful tooth that
may cost you one or two games. "So we try to be proactive on it and deal
with it before the season. Everyone is looking very good - body weight, fat
percentage and condition-wise. I have no complaints with that thanks to my
sports science department, who gave a very good off-season programme to the
players, and to the players themselves for following them very well. I'm
happy."
Professor Sanjay Sharma, a Professor of Inherited Cardiovascular Conditions
and Sports Cardiology at St George's Hospital in London, and representing
the team from CRY, explained the importance of identifying players with
potential heart problems across all sports. He said: "We're here with the
Cardiac Risk in the Young screening team to test all the players for
conditions of the heart that could result in sudden cardiac death. "We're
making the players fill in a health questionnaire which asks them about
symptoms of heart disease and their family history. The latter is quite
important because most of the conditions which cause sudden death in
sportsmen are genetic. "Clearly if there's a football player whose father
died at 40 or so, that makes us slightly more concerned about how detailed
we are with our assessment. "We also do an electrocardiogram (ECG) which
gives us some idea of electrical faults of the heart and a cardiac
ultrasound, which gives us some ideas of abnormalities, if any, of cardiac
structure. This is the most important test because it picks up very serious
conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which are the commonest
causes of sudden cardiac death in sportsmen. "Being here at West Ham, one
thing we can never forget is the brilliance of Marc-Vivien Foe, who played
here and went on to die three or four years later during a Confederations
Cup game, which was televised [in 2003]. "That really did create shockwaves
in the entire sporting community and we have come a long way in the ten
years since. We saw what happened with Fabrice Muamba, we saw the awareness,
the speed with which the doctors and paramedics were on the pitch, and those
amazing heroic efforts on the pitch, which led to a young man who is alive
and kicking now. "The Premier League should be acknowledged for what they're
doing in this field - it's very laudable and in general every single club
ensures their players are tested once a year. "I'm delighted to report that
everyone at West Ham is in good health and also in very good shape with the
season coming up."
For Diego Poyet, recently signed from Charlton Athletic, such an extensive
examination was something new. "Monday was a new experience for me, it's the
first time I've done it, but apparently everything has gone fine so I'm
pleased with that," he confirmed. "The awareness when it comes to heart
screening is growing all the time, especially when you think of cases like
Fabrice Muamba's. "It's important for players to know that they're well
whilst they're playing, but also for when they stop."
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Four Hammers games moved
WHUFC.com
Four of West Ham United's early-season fixtures have been moved to new
kick-off times
14.07.2014
Four West Ham United fixtures have been moved during the opening months of
the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League season. The Hammers' home fixtures with
Liverpool and champions Manchester City have both been allocated new
kick-off times, while the visit of newly-promoted Queens Park Rangers and
away game at Hull City have been moved to new dates.
The quartet of matches will now take place at the following times and dates:
*Hull City v West Ham United, Monday 15 September 2014, 8pm
*West Ham United v Liverpool, Saturday 20 September 2014, 5.30pm
*West Ham United v Queens Park Rangers, Sunday 5 October 2014, 4.15pm
*West Ham United v Manchester City, Saturday 25 October 2014, 12.45pm
Don't forget, the only way to guarantee your seat for every home game is to
purchase a Season Ticket. To do so, please click here. In the meantime, West
Ham will contest six further pre-season matches ahead of the big kick-off at
home to Tottenham Hotspur at 3pm on Saturday 16 August. Wednesday evening
will see the Hammers make the short trip up the A12 to Ipswich Town, where
tickets are still available for a 7.45pm kick-off at Portman Road. The
following day, Sam Allardyce and his squad will board a plane to the other
side of the world for the Football United Tour of New Zealand. That trip
will see West Ham take on A-League Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on 23 July
and Sydney FC in Wellington on 26 July. Tickets for both games are selling
fast but are still available to buy here. It is then off to Germany for the
Schalke 04 Cup in Gelsenkirchen over the weekend of 2/3 August, when the
Hammers will square off against the host club and Spanish side Malaga.
Tickets for the Schalke 04 Cup are available to buy here. West Ham will
complete their pre-season schedule by welcoming Italian Serie A club
Sampdoria to the Boleyn Ground for a 3pm kick-off on Saturday 9 August. To
secure your seat now, click here. **Supporters should note that all fixtures
are subject to change.
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Big Sam ready for Ipswich test
WHUFC.com
West Ham United travel to Ipswich Town on Wednesday for their next
pre-season fixture
14.07.2014
Sam Allardyce is looking forward to seeing new signing Aaron Cresswell take
on his former Club Ipswich Town in the Hammers' latest pre-season fixture on
Wednesday. The left-back has arrived in east London from the Tractor Boys,
having impressed hugely during three seasons at Portman Road. Voted into the
2013/14 PFA Championship Team of the Year by his fellow professionals, the
24-year-old has long been considered one of the best players outside the
Barclays Premier League. Now, he will be given a chance to prove that he can
excel at the highest level too, and manager Allardyce is predicting that he
has the physical, technical and mental attributes to make a positive impact
in a Hammers shirt. Tickets for Wednesday's game at Ipswich, which kicks off
at 7.45pm, are available by clicking here. Adult tickets are priced at just
£15 and concessions £10 "Aaron is a very interesting case because, as far as
we looked at other targets, when I looked at his career history, spoke to
[Ipswich manager] Mick McCarthy and looked at what he has done in the last
couple of years, he was right on the doorstep," Big Sam told West Ham TV.
"He started at 17 at Tranmere Rovers and played 70 games and Paul Jewell
took him to Ipswich when he became manager there. He has played nearly every
game over the last three seasons, so he never misses any games through
injury. "He is 24-years-old and there has been a very good, steady
development over those years. He has over 200 games in the bag and, after
moving from League One to the Championship. He was in the PFA Team of the
Year last season, so all of the players he played against saw him as the
best left-back in the Championship. "Of course, the price was right, which
was the biggest factor in our transfer dealings this season - if the player
is right and the price is right, we do the deal. The biggest stumbling block
is the size of the fees that are being asked for today. "This one was a
very, very good signing indeed, not just for right now but also for the
future."
Cresswell is very much a modern-day left-back - he is quick, technically
gifted, eager to get forward and possesses the ability to provide accurate
and telling deliveries into dangerous areas. Having missed just six
Championship matches over the previous three seasons, the Liverpool-born
full-back has also developed a reputation for his consistent level of
performance. Now, Big Sam says Cresswell's biggest challenge is taking that
consistency into one of the most competitive and best divisions in the
world. "Today, physical capabilities are a big part of your recruitment
process - he is a 24-year-old with great physical attributes as well as
great technique," confirmed his new manager. "I think learning about playing
in the Premier League is what we hope he can take up quickly. "The physical
attribute is there because the physical impact of playing in the
Championship is greater than that of playing in the Premier League -
something I learnt for the first time when I took West Ham up after joining
the Club in 2011. "Of course, in the Premier League, there is the mental
pressure and the extra bit of quality, living against some of the best
players in the world. That's what he needs to learn and cope with and all
the rest will fall into place.
"Hopefully it will be a smooth and easy transition for Aaron and we look
forward to him making a big contribution this year."
Cresswell will return to Portman Road with his new West Ham team-mates for a
pre-season fixture with Ipswich on Wednesday 16 July.
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West Ham United close in on Ecuador striker Enner Valencia
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United hope to sign Ecuador striker Enner Valencia from Mexican
club Pachuca this week. Valencia, 24, scored three goals at the Fifa World
Cup - two against Honduras and one against Switzerland - before Ecuador's
group-stage elimination. He was understood to be undergoing a medical at
West Ham on Monday. Valencia made his debut for Ecuadorian club side Emelec
in 2010 and went to make more than 100 appearances before joining Pachuca in
January this year. The forward scored 18 goals in 23 league games last
season. Valencia would become West Ham's fifth summer signing following the
captures of midfielder Diego Poyet from Charlton, striker Mauro Zarate from
Velez Sarsfield, Anderlecht's Senegal international midfielder Cheikhou
Kouyate and Ipswich full-back Aaron Cresswell.
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2014/15 TV dates announced
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 14th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are to be featured live on TV on four occasions during the
early part of the 2014/15 Premier League season.
The games - and the amended dates including broadcasters - are as follows:
Mon 15 Sept: Hull City v West Ham Utd (8pm, SS)
Sat 20 Sept: West Ham Utd v Liverpool (5:30pm, SS)
Sun 5 Oct: West Ham Utd v QPR (4:15pm, SS)
Sat 25 Oct: West Ham Utd v Man City (12.45pm, BT)
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Albion deny Downing approach
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 14th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Bromwich Albion have denied reports that they are attempting to sign
West Ham's Stewart Downing on loan. Over the weekend reports emerged that
the Baggies were preparing to make an offer for the former England
international, who joined West Ham from Liverpool a year ago. However the
Birmingham Mail's Chris Lepkowski revealed this morning that officials at
West Brom had denied any interest in signing the 30-year-old winger.
"Spoken to #wba regarding Downing rumours," wrote Lepkowski on his twitter
feed this lunchtime. "Baggies genuinely bemused by claims they've approached
WHU. They insist there has been no approach. "Sources close to WHU are
stating the opposite. Might be some crossed wires somewhere or just someone
trying to drum up interest."
And Downing himself appeared to have little intention of leaving the Boleyn
Ground when speaking about the imminent arrival of World Cup star Enner
Valencia, who is set to become the club's fifth summer signing. "We need
competition for places so if we do get that new signing then he will be a
good addition to the squad," he said. "It's a big boost for the club and
it's good for the fans too. They will get excited that they see there are
new players coming in. "For large amounts of last season we played without
a striker so we do need options. We can't rely on Andy [Carroll] all season.
Andy was the big signing but he struggled with injuries last season, so
hopefully the new signings will take the pressure off him a little bit."
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Valencia deal set for rapid conclusion
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 14th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Enner Valencia will undergo a medical this afternoon ahead of a proposed
move to West Ham. The 24-year-old Ecuador international current plies his
trade in Mexico with CF Pachua but is set to become a Hammer should he
successfully complete the medical, which wakes place today. A centre forward
by trade, Valencia can also operate in an advanced position on either flank.
He scored three goals in the World Cup Finals despite his country failing to
qualify for the knockout stage of the tournament. Last month it was revealed
on KUMB how Valencia topped Sam Allardyce's summer transfer target list. The
fee, depending on which source you believe, will vary from £9million to
£15million. Chairman David Sullivan revealed at the weekend how he hoped the
club would complete its fifth summer signing 'within 72 hours'. "The players
we have signed so far were all high up on our list of priorities and I know
they will all add something different to our squad - exciting attacking
play, goalscoring and experience as well as potential," he said. "The
recruitment drive will carry on, though, as there are at least three more
positions we would like to strengthen. We are in advanced talks to secure
another one of our top targets and all being well we should get that deal
over the line in the next 72 hours."
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West Ham new boy Aaron Cresswell to make Ipswich farewells on Wednesday
Last Updated: 14/07/14 2:07pm
SSN
Former Ipswich full-back Aaron Cresswell is looking forward to a "proper
goodbye" at Portman Road when he returns with new club West Ham in a
friendly on Wednesday evening. The 24-year-old left Town this summer to sign
a five-year deal with the Hammers. He told the Tractor Boys' official
website: "It's great to have the chance to come back to Ipswich and properly
say my goodbyes to the players, the staff and the supporters. "Ipswich put
faith in me and I want to put on record my sincere thanks to the owner, Mick
McCarthy and Paul Jewell - who signed me - and the fans at Ipswich for their
fantastic support over the past three years." Cresswell came through the
system at Tranmere before moving to Ipswich in 2011, where he would go on to
make over 140 appearances. He added: "It was difficult to leave the club as
I'd built up a great relationship with everyone there but like any player I
want to play in the Premier League and joining a fantastic club like West
Ham is a great opportunity for me. "I genuinely wish Ipswich every success
for the season ahead and I'll be keeping an eye on their results."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Enner Valencia undergoing medical at West Ham
Last Updated: 14/07/14 4:12pm
SSN
Ecuador striker Enner Valencia is undergoing a medical at West Ham. Valencia
will cost West Ham close to the club-record £15m they paid Liverpool for
striker Andy Carroll. The 25-year-old scored all three of Ecuador's World
Cup goals in Brazil this summer, attracting the attention of a number of
Premier League suitors in the process. But Hammers boss Sam Allardyce looks
set to have won the race to sign him, and provided he passes his medical and
agrees personal terms, the striker will leave his Mexican club Pachuca for
east London on a reported five-year deal. He will become West Ham's fifth
signing of the summer, joining Argentine striker Mauro Zarate, centre-back
or midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, Ipswich Town left-back Aaron Cresswell and
Charlton midfielder Diego Poyet at the club. Pachuca chairman Jesus Martinez
said last week that he wants any deal to include clauses that would see
Pachuca benefit if Valencia was to move on. "There are various offers for
Enner Valencia, the strongest and closest to what the player and us are
demanding is from a club from England," he told Ecuagol. "I won't talk about
prices, but if he is sold, it will be the highest transfer fee ever in
Mexican football football, otherwise he won't be sold. We are seeking the
possibility that is convenient for him and the club and that he is sold for
the price that we like. We want to keep a percentage of the player in case
he is sold in the future to another big team in Europe. "It hurts me, I
don't want to sell him and neither does the manager or the fans but we can't
go against the career the kid aspires to."
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DO WE REALLY NEED ANOTHER FOUR SIGNINGS?
By Sean Whetstone 14 Jul 2014 at 17:38
West Ham Till I Die
Big Sam speaking ahead of the Stevenage game on West Ham TV was asked about
what further signings we could expect this summer:
"It depends on the budget, there is still room for a central defender
particularly a left footed done because we do run with three not four
ideally another left back to go along with Aaron and a front line player and
the possibility of a midfield player as well"
We all know the front line player Sam is talking about is Enner Valencia who
should be signing on Wednesday if everything goes to plan. If he joins he
will join Andy Carroll, Carlton Cole, Mauro Zarate, Ricardo Vaz Te but we
should also remember we have Jaanai Gordon, Paul McCallum, Elliot Lee and
Sean Macguire all with a first team squad number coming through and waiting
in the wings.
The central defender comment is a strange one, in addition to Winston Reid,
James Collins and James Tomkins we know that Kouyate can play centre back as
cover as it was his primary position up to very recently. If we needed a
fifth centre back why not blood the 6ft 3 youngster Reece Oxford on the
bench who is the interest of Chelsea and Arsenal. He has already trained
with the first team at the age of 15.
Sam also mentioned the Left Back position. It is assumed Aaron Cresswell
will be the primary choice for the left back position but we know Joey
O'Brien who play left back as well as right back and Stuart Downing can also
left back as cover as he did for Liverpool on more than one occasion. We
also shouldn't forget Dan Potts who signed a one year contract extension
this summer. He has made five first team appearances so far for the Hammers.
Another one coming through the ranks is supposed to be teenager Oscar Borg
who has attracted from elsewhere. Cresswell himself only missed four games
all of last season at Ipswich so if he makes the step up to Premier League
he won't want to give up his spot up any time soon.
As for another midfielder we have them coming out of ears in addition to
Matt Jarvis, Kevin Nolan, Ravel Morrison, Mark Noble and Stewart Downing we
have added Cheikhou Kouyate and Diego Poyet. We also have the following
youngsters with first squad numbers Blair Turgott, George Moncurr, Danny
Whitehead, Sebastian Lletget and Matthias Fanimo. Why would we need another
cheap midfielder?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SET TO BREACH WAGE CAP TO KEEP REID
By Sean Whetstone 14 Jul 2014 at 13:30
West Ham Till I Die
West Ham are understood to have upped their previous offer of £50k per week
to £60k per week in an attempt to persuade Winston Reid to sign a new long
term contract. His advisers are believed to have asked as much as £75k per
week previously for a new contract. Reid and his advisors have been given
two weeks to decide but if he decides not to put pen to paper he may be
forced to play the next year on his existing contract terms barring a
transfer request in which case the Hammers would have little option but to
sell him.
The centre back joined West Ham in August 2010 on a three year contract for
a fee believed to be around £3m. This deal was later extended by two years
which takes him up to August 2015.His transfer fee was the subject of a
dispute between West Ham United and his former club FC Midtjylland as West
Ham withheld the fee to bring to UEFA's attention fees owing to them from
the sale of Alessandro Diamanti to Brescia.
He has made 93 appearances for West Ham scoring five goals against
opposition including against Milwall and Spurs. If the deal is agreed it
would make Reid the second highest earner in the club after Andy Carroll who
is though to earn £80k per week.
A 5 year deal would cost West Ham over £15m If he was sold this summer he
could raise around £6m but no official bids or inquiries have been received
to date.
The deal coincides with Reid going back to his New Zealand homeland for two
pre-season friendlies starting with Wellington Phoenix FC on 23rd July then
Sydney FC on the 26th July.Interestingly there doesn't appear to be an offer
on the table at the moment for Ravel Morrison if sources are to be believed.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ALOU DIARRA INTERVIEW ON HIS TIME AT WEST HAM - BY GET FRENCH FOOTBALL NEWS
(GFFN)
By S J Chandos 14 Jul 2014 at 08:30
West Ham Till I Die
Get French Football News (GFFN) have published a interview with former
Hammer, Alou Diarra. It is interesting in that it covers his views on why
his time in East London was unsuccessful, the reasons for the early,
mutually agreed, termination of his West Ham contract and what the future
holds for him. The following is a summary of some of the main points arising
from the interview.
GFFN posed the question, what were his memories of West Ham, were they
primarily good or bad?
Diarra's reported reply was that:
'Mixed, in all honesty, in terms of football (sportingly) it was not
positive. I learnt some things over there, I had a good relationship with
the fans, I saw the great passion surrounding this club. But personally, in
terms of football, I did not have a good record there. I arrived at a club
that didn't want me there. I was very badly advised. my philosophy and style
of play was basically incompatible with the philosophy of the manager in
place. I had to match a desired profile, which was to support to the squad,
but that was all, nothing more. I learnt nothing in terms of football
(sportingly) when I was at West Ham. I do not want to blame anyone, the
coach had his own style which he had implemented for several years. It turns
out that in the end, it was a very bad career choice for me.'
GFFN followed that up by asking, you were under contract until 2015, why did
you terminate your contract by mutual consent a year early?
Diarra was reported as replying:
'I'm a competitor and the game time that I was receiving at West Ham was not
enough. I was not satisfied in the first year. The second year I tried to
make an effort but nothing changed. I think it is for the benefit of both
parties, to terminate the deal amicably and leave on good terms; because
aside from the fact that in terms of football the deal did not work, I have
a good relationship with the club. I couldn't not stay in such a situation
any longer. I am a competitor first and foremost, I have aims to fulfil. I
did not sign for West Ham to get a good salary and sit on the bench. I want
to enjoy the remaining years of my career. I am still in very good
psychological and physical shape. It was difficult to coexist with a manager
who did not play with the same philosophy as me. We did not have the same
footballing vision. I remained profession throughout in terms of my
commitment and nobody can say otherwise. Sadly, I did not progress enough in
this team; the manager had his plans and I was not part of them.'
Asked what he thought awaited him next season, Diarra replied:
'At a footballing level, I see myself on the pitch, I see myself competing.
I would like to join a club that plays continental football if possible. If
it is not a club that plays in Europe, I will compete for that club with the
same ambition, a project and a manager who knows my qualities. That is what
I am waiting for. I am hungry to compete, because that is what I have been
missing in the last two years. I cannot wait to play every weekend and make
sure I stay at the best physical level possible. I am ready to face a new
challenge.'
GFFN concluded by asking what his aims were for next season and Diarra
responded by stating:
'First and foremost, to put myself into a club with ambition, with a real
project, where I have a role to play. The European cups have always
attracted me. Joining a club that plays in Europe is certainly part of my
aims yes. I have missed that enormously when I was at West Ham and I would
like to get that feeling again that allows me to play at a European level.
It gives teams prestige. To go to a club that is either qualifying for or
already in a European cup for me would be the best possible choice I could
make.'
There are some interesting, as well as fairly predictable responses from
Alou Diarra. What is marked by its absence is any reference to the fact that
both of Diarra's seasons with the club were characterised by prolonged
injury absence. Surely that was also an important factor determining the
outcome of his time at West Ham?
Still, what is done is done, good luck to the player in his future career.
The truth is that it is time for both the player and club (and it does cut
both ways!) to put a poor move behind them and look ahead! Lets certainly
hope that the club have learnt from it and there will be no more such
expensive transfer mistakes in future.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia medical starts as contract crosses globe
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 14, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Enner Valencia's switch to West Ham came a step closer today as the player
went through the first stages of his medical procedure at the club. However,
it will take up to 36-48 hours for the deal to be sealed – assuming there
are no snags or breakdowns! ClaretandHugh can reveal that the contract has
been sent the player's South American lawyers but time differences will
delay completion – or otherwise. In the meantime Valencia has had scans and
had blood tests at Chadwell Heath with a full medical booked for later aty
Holly House. Despite on line reports the deal has been done, ClaretandHugh
can reveal that there is still "some way to go."
An Upton Park insider released to us exclusively the procedure involved and
the stage we are currently at in negotiations. He said: "We are 36-48 hours
away at best given the time differences.However, we havestarted the medical
procedures today which invovle scans, blood tests and such like." "The
contract has now been sent to lawyers in South America who are five hours
behind and obviously there are discussion to take place and the normal time
taken to respond in such situations."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham plot transfer of Antonio Rudiger as this summer's sixth new arrival
Jul 14, 2014 22:30 By Darren Lewis
Hammers have made £8m move but face competition from Porto over the
21-year-old Stuttgart defender PLUS: Latest on Enner Valencia chase
The Mirror
West Ham are keen to make £8million Antonio Rudiger their sixth signing of
the summer. We revealed back in May that the Hammers had moved for the
21-year-old Stuttgart centre-back, regarded as one of the best young players
in the Bundesliga. Rudiger's has three years left on his contract but -
despite interest from Porto, whose centre-half Eliaquim Managala is a target
for Manchester City - the player is understood to be keen to play in the
Premier League. Confirming the Londoners' move, Rudiger's agent, Uli Ferber,
said: "We know about the interest of these two clubs [Porto and West Ham].
But we leave things to VfB [Stuttgart], to who Toni is under contract."
Elsewhere, the Irons are still at least 48 hours away from sealing their
fifth signing of the summer - £12million World Cup striker Enner Valencia.
The 25-year-old Ecuador international is set to sign a five-year deal, but
first has to complete a medical. West Ham will then attempt to secure a work
permit for him. Valencia scored all three of his country's World Cup goals
in Brazil, after netting 18 times in 23 games for Mexican side Pachuca last
season. West Ham have already signed striker Mauro Zarate from Lazio,
left-back Aaron Cresswell of Ipswich and midfielders Cheikhou Kouyate
(Anderlecht) and Diego Poyet, son of Sunderland manager Gus, from Charlton
this summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Guy Demel wanted by Leicester City as West Ham ponder defender's future
Newly-promoted Foxes keen on move for Ivory Coast international
Hammers considering letting Demel leave on a free transfer
West Ham closing on the signing of Ecuador star Enner Valencia
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 22:29, 14 July 2014 | UPDATED: 22:29, 14 July 2014
Daily Mail
Leicester City are keen to sign West Ham defender Guy Demel. The former
Ivory Coast international featured 33 times for the Hammers last season, but
may be allowed to leave on a free. Nigel Pearson is busy bolstering his
Foxes squad following promotion from the Championship an is lining up a move
for the 33-year-old, who has also played for Borussia Dortmund and Hamburg.
Meanwhile, West Ham are continuing talks with Pachuca about an £11million
fee for striker Enner Valencia. The 24-year-old scored twice in three games
at the World Cup for Ecuador and is close to a move to Upton Park.
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