Daily WHUFC News - 9th January 2016

Preview - Wolves
WHUFC.com

The background

West Ham United's Emirates FA Cup adventure for 2016 begins on Saturday with
a third round visit of Sky Bet Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Hammers take a break from Barclays Premier League action having risen
back to sixth in the table with back-to-back wins either side of the New
Year.

Southampton and Liverpool were both seen off at the Boleyn Ground and Slaven
Bilic will be hoping to make it a hat-trick of home wins in his first FA Cup
tie as boss.

Wolves sit eleventh in the Championship table, seven points shy of the
play-off positions having taken 34 points from 25 games, but are on a good
run of form.

Kenny Jackett's men have won their last three outings, defeating Reading,
Charlton Athletic and Brighton & Hove Albion without conceding a goal.

They are four-time FA Cup winners, last lifting the famous trophy in 1960.
The history

West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers have met twice before in the FA
Cup.

The first meeting was also the first time the clubs faced off in any
competition, with the then-Southern League Hammers defeating their Football
League opponents 5-1 in 1910.

The second cup tie was more recent – in 2004 – when goals from Brian Deane,
Marlon Harewood and David Connolly gave the Hammers a 3-1 fourth round win
at Molineux.

Overall, West Ham and Wolves have played each other 60 times, with the
Hammers winning 28 times to the Midlanders' 18

The match

Team news

West Ham United

Winston Reid returns to the West Ham United squad for the visit of Wolves,
having recovered from a hamstring injury.

Dimitri Payet could start after making his comeback from his ankle problem
in last week's victory over Liverpool, but Manuel Lanzini is out after
limping off during the same game.

Victor Moses and Diafra Sakho (both hamstring) remain sidelined, although a
return for Moses is not far away.
Wolverhampton Wanderers

For Wolves, winger Jordan Graham is a doubt after suffering an ankle knock
and Michai Zyro may come in in his place.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is in contention to start following injury, but
Sheyi Ojo is unavailable after his parent club Liverpool cut short his loan
at Molineux.
Match info

Saturday's referee is Manchester official Anthony Taylor. His assistants are
Constantine Hatzidakis and Adam Hopkins. The fourth official is Kevin
Johnson.
West Ham enjoyed a fantastic start to their head-to-head meetings with
Wolves, winning eleven and drawing three of the opening 14 fixtures before
losing 5-0 at Molineux in a First Division match on 11 April 1960.
Bobby Moore scored the only double of his career in a 4-2 First Division win
over Wolves at the Boleyn Ground on 18 December 1961.
Liam Brady scored on his final appearance in a West Ham shirt in a 4-0
Second Division victory over Wolves here on 5 May 1990 – the last game of
the Republic of Ireland great's illustrious career.
Wolves' most-recent visit to E13 was on New Year's Day 2011, when West Ham
ran out 2-0 Premier League winners courtesy of a Ronald Zubar own-goal and a
strike from Academy graduate Freddie Sears.

Ticketing, travel, coverage and other news

Tickets for Saturday's game against Wolves have SOLD OUT.
District and Hammersmith & City line trains will be serving Upton Park on
Saturday, but please note that trains will not be running on the far eastern
end of the District line, between Upminster and Barking. Replacement buses
will operate. Click here for the latest news on TfL services and here for
National Rail.
A damp day is expected in east London on Saturday, with temperature at
kick-off of 10C (50F).
If you are not heading to the game on Saturday, make sure you keep up to
date on all the action on our digital channels. The whufc.com match centre
will have live audio commentary, text updates, in-running photos, stats and
more, and you can get involved in the conversation on social using the
hashtag #WHUWOL.

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Collins ready for FA Cup glory
WHUFC.com

James Collins has enjoyed many memorable moments at West Ham United during
his lengthy spell at the Boleyn Ground – but the Ginger Pele still has one
painful memory that he is determined to get out of his system. Collins is
still plagued by the FA Cup Final defeat against Liverpool back in 2006
after the Hammers came within seconds of winning their first piece of major
silverware since 1980. Few could forget the events that unfolded at the
Millennium Stadium when West Ham were leading 3-2 heading into injury time
and Steven Gerrard broke the hearts of the Hammers supporters when he fired
an unstoppable shot past Shaka Hislop into the corner of the net to force
the game into extra-time. Liverpool ended up winning 3-1 on penalties and it
was a moment that Collins, who was on the substitutes bench that day, has
failed to get out of his system. Collins said: "It is still one of the
biggest disappointments of my career not winning the FA Cup that season. We
had a great run and got to the final. "We had some great games leading up to
the final and obviously the game against Middlesbrough in the semi-final at
Villa Park was massive when we won 1-0. "Being in Cardiff for the Final was
massive for my family and a special day but gutted overall to have lost it.
We did so well during the game and to lose on penalties was disastrous. It
is still something I think about every time I play in the Cup. "If you look
back at the game and that moment at the end, you just want Lionel Scaloni to
let the ball run out for a throw-in and it is game over. "But unfortunately
he has hooked it into the middle of the pitch and everyone knows what
happened next. "I remember sitting on the bench next to Matthew Etherington
who came off and saying 'we have won the FA Cup – it is unbelievable'. Fate
took it's course and of course we lost it in the end."

Collins knows he can put things right by steering West Ham to FA Cup glory
this season and feels it would be the perfect ending for the Hammers as they
prepare to leave the Boleyn Ground during the summer. The 32-year-old
believes the Club are genuine contenders to go all the way and believes they
have enough quality in the squad to compete against any team. Collins added:
"Any opportunity to win the FA Cup is massive, but to do it in our final
ever season at the Boleyn Ground would be incredible. It would be a great
journey for both the players and the fans. "I think this is one of our best
chances to win it and this is certainly the strongest squad we have had for
a long time. "If the manager wants to make changes early on we can still
field a very strong time. The players who have not been playing recently are
itching to get some game time and they will do just as good a job as the
ones who have been playing. "It is a good time for us and we are doing
better in the league than we normally do at this stage. We had a good
Christmas with result and there is every chance we can do well in the FA
Cup. "Wolves will be wanting to do well against a Premier League side but we
are in a rich vein of form at the moment and are playing well and can
hopefully get another good result on Saturday."

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From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com

What a way for us to start 2016 and it was a memorable victory over
Liverpool last weekend.

We have beaten the mighty Liverpool home and away this season with a 5-0
aggregate scoreline and I am sure that has never been done before in the
Club's history.

Slaven has said that it would be difficult for any side if they were missing
six of their best players but we still managed to get points on the board
during that tricky period and it is no co-incidence that we get our
important players back on the pitch and the victories start to come again.

It proves what we have been saying and I am sure all the supporters were
delighted with the all-round performance.

It was obviously disappointing to see Manuel Lanzini come off with the same
injury and that was the only dampener on a great performance.

He looked brilliant in the opening stages and had that great shot which hit
the post. Let's hope he can make a quick recovery and comes back strong
again.

It does give other players the chance to shine and the best example of that
has been Michail Antonio who was man of the match against Southampton and
produced another great display against Liverpool.

He has certainly grasped his opportunity and got his rewards with two goals
in two games. He never stops running and works so hard for the team.

James Collins was also outstanding and he was my man of the match against
Liverpool. He has continued his great form this season and you could not ask
for more passion and determination that he gives you during a game. The
whole defence were fantastic in helping us come away with another clean
sheet.

To top things off we then see Dimitri Payet back in action and what more can
I say about him.

He can become an all-time great and a legend at West Ham United. He has all
the attributes of the great players we have had at this special football
club over the years.

He lifted the crowd when he came on and looked like he had never been away.
He is a joy to watch.

We now turn our attentions to the Emirates FA Cup and it would be fantastic
if we could go all the way this season and win the competition.

I could not think of anything more fitting for our final ever season at the
Boleyn Ground.

I am fortunate enough to have seen West Ham win three FA Cup Finals at
Wembley against Preston, Fulham and Arsenal and nothing beats seeing your
team win a major trophy.

I was excited as a youngster to see us beat Preston and then the game
against Fulham was very interesting as Bobby Moore was playing against us
and they also had Alan Mullery.

I see Alan Taylor who comes to the home games and he stole the show with two
goals.

I will never forget the victory over the mighty Arsenal in 1980 who were the
strong favourites to win the game. Sir Trevor Brooking scored a rare header
and it was an unbelievable day.

We have certainly come close in recent times with that heartbreaking defeat
against Liverpool back in 2006. It was as if time stood still when the ball
fell to the one player on the pitch you didn't want it to and their name was
on the trophy.

We have had some memorable victories this season, but the whole world is
watching you when you win the FA Cup and it is a fantastic moment. The
emotion of winning a cup is like no other.

I am entitled to dream and I would also love to see the team finish as high
as possible in the Premier League.

With the likes of Payet, Carroll, Reid and Moses coming back from injury, we
have a squad good enough to achieve that.

Wolves are on a decent run of form having won the last three games, but we
are the favourites to win the game and I know Slaven will put out a strong
side who can win the tie.

The transfer window has now re-opened once again and it is great that we go
into this period without us having to buy a certain player.

If we had a weakness I would want to strengthen the squad, but that is not
the case.

I agree with Slaven that if something exceptional comes along we will look
at it, but we have a good squad of players and we are all excited about the
second half of the season.

Enjoy the game on Saturday.

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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com

Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest
update – with Spire Roding Hospital...

We arrive in 2016 with the team in good form and with everyone around the
Club feeling positive.

It is FA Cup third round weekend, an important and exciting weekend for
football fans and all people involved in football.

It has been a good Christmas and a great New Year, winning against
Southampton and Liverpool but unfortunately we picked up injuries.

Finding the good balance between fitness and freshness is key to get through
this exciting period.

We have a three-match week coming up and some players are more fatigued than
others but at the end of the day all teams have to find a way to cope, play,
recover and train to the best of their abilities.

The positive news starts with Winston Reid, Winston has been in full
training with the squad all week and is available for selection against
Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.

Dimitri Payet came through the Liverpool game without any reaction to his
previous ankle injury and is fit to play against Wolves.

Manuel Lanzini re-injured his quadriceps in the win over Liverpool, which
will rule him out for several weeks.

The first game, post injury, is not the biggest risk for a player. The first
game back players are involved for limited minutes, fresh and are playing on
a wave of 'excitement'.

Unfortunately Manuel got injured in his second game and he will rest for a
week followed by the rehab at Chadwell Heath. We'll have more news next
week.

Victor Moses will return to full training with the squad on Monday. Victor
returned to his parent club Chelsea for a part of his rehab before returning
to West Ham last week.

He has been training with our rehab fitness coach and working towards
getting the required level of fitness under his belt.

Diafra Sakho has also returned to the training ground this week after a
period of limited rehab, to let the body heal.

Diaf's rehab is initially focussed on gaining muscle strength and restoring
the optimal movement patterns enabling us to push on the next few weeks.

We will have a better idea of when Diaf will be ready to play at the end of
next week.

As I said at the beginning, we are positive about where we are at the
moment, and will continue to work hard with the players and the staff to
achieve good things this season.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science

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New Stadium – Final call for existing STHs
WHUFC.com

All Reservation Centre appointment invitations for existing Season Ticket
Holders have now been issued.

Therefore, all existing Season Ticket Holders wishing to secure seats at
West Ham United's new home should have either already had their appointment
or have an appointment pending.

If, for whatever reason, that is not the case, supporters are asked to call
the Reservation Centre urgently on 0808 110 2016.

Given the volume of supporters on the Season Ticket Priority List, this is a
final opportunity to take advantage of your priority status as an existing
Season Ticket Holder.

The Club have long since surpassed record Season Ticket sales and will
shortly begin scheduling appointments for supporters on the Priority List,
based on the order in which they joined.

Meanwhile, for Season Ticket Holders who have already renewed, there will be
a final opportunity to invite friends and family to join them as Founders.

Supporters who, until now, have only invited one fellow Hammers fan, or
indeed none at all, to join them as a new Season Ticket Holder, can take
advantage of an exclusive five day Founders Amnesty Window.

With the final Band 4 appointments fast approaching, the Amnesty Window will
open on Wednesday 27 January and run until Sunday 31 January.

Supporters wishing to take this last chance to bring friends and family
members with them are asked to complete a short online form at >
amnesty.whufc.com, where you can select whether you would prefer to select
additional seats either over the phone or in person at the New Stadium
Reservation Centre in Westfield Stratford City.

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U18s looking to complete Royals' double
WHUFC.com

West Ham United's U18s return to action this Saturday, their first
competitive game in 2016, with a tough away fixture with Reading.

Steve Potts' side are looking to complete the double over the Royals
following a 1-0 win earlier in the season thanks to an Idris Kanu netted a
14th minute.

The Royals are currently second in the Barclays U18 Premier League South
Division with 35 points from 18 games, five points off league leader's
Chelsea.

Meanwhile the Hammers are looking to kick start their campaign to finish in
the top four and therefore qualify for the Elite round of the Play Offs.

After recent defeats to Derby County and Chelsea, the Claret and Blues find
themselves seventh, however a win on Saturday could see them leapfrog
Arsenal before next weekend's home tie with Aston Villa.

The Hammers play Reading U18's at Reading FC Training Ground on Saturday 9
January, kick off is 11am.

Make sure you follow @whufc_official and whufc.com for updates, a match
report and reaction.

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West Ham v Wolves
KO 15:00
8 January 2016

FA CUP THIRD ROUND
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 9 January Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live, BBC local radio, Final Score

TEAM NEWS

West Ham boss Slaven Bilic will field a strong side but midfielder Manuel
Lanzini is out with a thigh problem. Midfielder Dimitri Payet could start
after returning to action last weekend and defender Winston Reid could
feature after overcoming a hamstring problem.
New signing Michal Zyro could make his debut in midfield for Wolves. Keeper
Emi Martinez (thigh) returns. Defender Kortney Hause is out with a hamstring
problem and winger Jordan Graham (ankle) is a 50-50 prospect.

MATCH FACTS

West Ham have faced Wolves twice in the FA Cup, with the Hammers winning on
both occasions in 1910 (5-1) and 2004 (3-1), but this is the first and only
tie to take place at Upton Park.
The Hammers have won only one of their past nine FA Cup games (L5 D3).
Wolves have failed to score in five of their past eight cup matches.
Wolves have lost their last four FA Cup ties in a row against higher-ranked
opposition.

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West Ham v Wolves preview: Hammers without Manuel Lanzini
Last Updated: 08/01/16 9:27pm
SSN

Manuel Lanzini has been ruled out for West Ham's third round FA Cup tie with
Wolves. West Ham will be without Manuel Lanzini when they host Wolves in the
FA Cup third round on Saturday. The Argentinian midfielder suffered a
recurrence of a thigh injury against Liverpool last weekend and faces
another few weeks on the sidelines. Defender Winston Reid could return after
a hamstring problem but winger Victor Moses (hamstring) and striker Diafra
Sakho (thigh) are still missing. Kenny Jackett could hand a Wolves debut to
winger Michal Zyro, who signed from Legia Warsaw on a three-and-a-half-year
deal earlier this month.
Wolves' Jordan Graham is rated as 50/50 for the trip to Upton Park.
Goalkeeper Emi Martinez is back after a thigh injury which has kept him out
since November but defender Kortney Hause remains sidelined with a hamstring
problem. Jordan Graham is rated 50-50 by Jackett after suffering an ankle
injury in the 1-0 win at Brighton and will be assessed, with Wolves due to
make a decision on Friday. One man they will definitely be without is Sheyi
Ojo. The midfielder was due to spend the season at Molineux but has been
recalled by parent club Liverpool after a lack of match action in recent
weeks.

Opta stats

West Ham have faced Wolves twice in the FA Cup, with the Hammers winning on
both occasions in 1910 (5-1) and 2004 (3-1), but this is the first and only
tie to take place at Upton Park.
The Hammers have won only one of their last nine FA Cup games (L5 D3).
Wolves have failed to score in five of their last eight Cup matches.
Wolves have lost their last four FA Cup ties in a row against higher-ranked
opposition.

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Slaven Bilic targets FA Cup success with West Ham
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 08/01/16 11:53pm
SSN

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic would rather win the FA Cup than qualify for
the Champions League. Bilic made the claim ahead of the Hammers' third round
clash with Sky Bet Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Boleyn
Ground. His statement of intent will be music to the ears of West Ham
supporters, who were angry when previous manager Sam Allardyce fielded a
team of youngsters in a 5-0 third round defeat at Nottingham Forest two
years ago. Allardyce was concentrating his resources on a relegation battle
but, with West Ham currently sixth in the Premier League, Bilic can turn his
attentions to bringing a first FA Cup in 36 years to east London. Asked if
he would rather finish in the top four or lift the famous old trophy, Bilic
said: "I would like to win the cup. Of course. "Over the Champions League?
Yes. It is a cup! Win the cup and I can hold it up. Get in the Champions
League and I have to buy a magazine to show the league table and shout 'look
where we are, look where we are'. "The proof is silverware. So I would
prefer to win the FA Cup...and then finish fifth or sixth! "The FA Cup is
special. There was a stage before they changed the format of the Champions
League when the cup was good because through the cup you would qualify for
the Cup Winners' Cup and only the league champions would go through to the
European Cup. "But then they changed it and made it the Champions League.
Suddenly it was more important to finish in the top three or four in the
league than to win the cup. "But in England, the FA Cup for me never lost
its value."

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Can Slaven Bilic's West Ham kick on now Dimitri Payet is back?
By Adam Bate
Last Updated: 07/01/16 2:47pm
SSN

Slaven Bilic has managed West Ham's injuries and Dimitri Payet is back. Can
they get even better?

For much of December, there wasn't a lot for West Ham supporters to shout
about. Their three goalless draws in a row were as many as Sam Allardyce's
side had last season in total. On the face of it, this was not the
excitement promised. However, the truth is that West Ham supporters will be
encouraged by the way that coach Slaven Bilic has navigated a path through
their injury-hit winter.

Bilic expects quiet January
Slaven Bilic expects no new signings at West Ham during January. It's been
quite a list. Key defender Winston Reid was injured midway through that
period; so was Victor Moses. Diafra Sakho picked up a thigh strain in late
November, Enner Valencia has been eased back and Dimitri Payet missed the
entire month of December. Only Manchester United have used more players this
season. Under the circumstances, just picking up points felt like a victory.
Even so, it was in the balance. Draws, and there were five in a row in the
end, produce sequences that can go either way. But home wins over
Southampton and Liverpool either side of New Year have put a different spin
on it. Bilic's side are on the longest unbeaten run in the Premier League.
In half a season, he has shown that he's a coach who can handle a variety of
styles and circumstances.

Unbeaten run

West Ham are the only Premier League team to be unbeaten in their last eight
games. There were the surprise highlights of early season. West Ham took
maximum points from their first three away games against Arsenal, Liverpool
and Manchester City, showcasing the team's counter-punching credentials. And
while a 4-3 home defeat to Bournemouth suggested his side is less
comfortable when the onus is on them, the Hammers have not been beaten in
front of their own fans since. How they'd love to keep that run going in
their final season at the Boleyn Ground.
In some senses, the improvements have been marginal. The statistics show
that West Ham have had similar levels of possession with the number of short
passes increasing slightly and the amount of long balls remaining the same.
Allardyce would no doubt have appreciated the defensive resolve that has
seen the team concede only twice in six games.

Resilient West Ham

Slaven Bilic's men have made 102 blocks in the Premier League this season,
more than any other team. West Ham are the only team to make more than 100
blocks this season and having spent so long leading the big teams, they've
had to embrace the backs-to-the-wall mentality. That's suited James Collins,
who says he's in the form of his life. "Sometimes we defend a little bit too
much," he told the club website. "It is a bit last-gasp, but that is how I
like to play the game." Bilic has been able to fuse this work ethic and
organisation with the addition of some flair in the final third. As a
result, when his West Ham do attack, they are dangerous. Only three teams
have scored more goals from open play this season. They've already got 23
goals this way, having scored only 29 times from open play in the entirety
of last season.
Michail Antonio finished off one such move for the opening goal against
Liverpool last time out. "It's not a surprise that we're producing these
kind of performances," he said. "We've shown it right from the start of the
season when we beat all the top boys. We've had a bit of a dip with the
injuries, but players are coming back, the squad is getting strong again and
now we can keep pushing on."

There is certainly the possibility there to improve the team's position
given the run of games ahead. Although Manchester City visit Upton Park
later this month, six of the next seven games are against sides currently in
the bottom eight. That's an opportunity for a side that's only four points
shy of the final Champions League qualification berth. Andy Carroll will not
be sold in the transfer window, says West Ham boss Slaven Bilic. West Ham
fans can be a pessimistic bunch and the instinct for a club that's finished
higher than sixth only once in the past 30 years is to look down the table
rather than up. But the prospect of getting to March in the mix demands
optimism. "The squad is great, the manager is great and the staff are great,
and everyone's enjoying it," said Andy Carroll this week. Long may it
continue.

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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic would rather win the FA Cup than a Champions
League place
22:30, 8 JAN 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
The Hammers kick off their bid to lift the trophy at home to Championship
Wolves with the boss insisting the true mark of success is silverware
The Mirror

Slaven Bilic claims he would rather win the FA Cup than qualify for the
Champions League. West Ham kick off their bid to lift the trophy at home
against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday. Bilic believes the sixth-placed
Hammers would rather savour a triumphant trip to Wembley to crown their
final year at Upton Park than be dwarfed by the big names in European
football's elite competition next season. The Croat said: "I would like to
win the Cup. It is a cup. Win the Cup and I can hold it up. "Get in the
Champions League and I have to buy a magazine to show them the league table
and shout, 'Look where we are! Look where we are!' "The proof is silverware.
So I would prefer to win the FA Cup – and finish fifth or sixth!" Bilic is
under orders from the Hammers hierarchy to do better than predecessor Sam
Allardyce, whose 4-0 humiliation at West Brom last season saw co-owner David
Sullivan confronted by angry fans in the car park afterwards. The former
defender played in the home defeat by then-Second Division Wrexham in 1997,
where supporters invaded the pitch at the final whistle to hurl abuse at
chairman Terry Brown. Bilic ignored police advice to step out on to the
Upton Park forecourt to try to appease the mob. He recalled: "They scored
near the end of the game – it was a cracker from like 25 yards and I
remember the bad atmosphere afterwards. "The fans were there and we had
police on horses. I remember I came out to talk to them because the fans
were demanding new players because we were struggling. "Iain Dowie had got
injured, Tony Cottee went to the Far East and we were without options up
front. "That's when we bought Johnny Hartson and Paul Kitson and they helped
keep us up. But of course that game was a bad memory." There is far more
strength in depth at the club these days and in their final season before
moving to the Olympic Stadium, the fringe players have a chance to impress.
"It's about competition now with a few players coming back from injury,"
said Bilic. "It gives me the belief they can go far and be a really good
side."

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ExWHUEmployee FA Cup Column
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 8, 2016 in News, Whispers FA Cup Column
By @ExWHUEmployee

It has been a while since I last wrote for Claret and Hugh but I am pleased
to write another article for the site before what I believe to be a very
important game for the club. I apologise for the lack of columns recently
but as some of you know I have also been starting my own website up at
www.thewesthamway.co.uk be sure to pop by and check us out too.

The F.A Cup match against Wolves is a game that we must and will take
seriously. In our last season at Upton Park we need to try and extend it as
much as possible and another few home FA Cup ties and hopefully a quarter
final would really send off our magnificent stadium in style.

Some of my favourite moments at the stadium have been in the FA Cup. In my
first ever season as a season ticket holder I witnessed my hero Stuart
Slater destroy Everton in Quarter final. I remember the emotion of being
knocked out by Arsenal on penalties in 1998 again at the quarter final stage
and facing all my mates at school the next day. It is fair to say that I
still feel the romance of the cup.

Yes the FA Cup has lost some of the glamour in the UK than it had when I was
a kid but it is still a special trophy. The cup is watched all around the
world and is arguably just as notorious now as it was in the past in many
countries. There is a larger global audience now with countries such as the
USA and those in Asia becoming more fanatical about our beautiful game so in
some ways it is just as big.

The Wolves game has already sold out and this would be the case for any
future games too and so the occasions would all be special and worth putting
a strong side out which Bilic does intend to do.

If we could progress well in the cup and perhaps even reach the final and
heaven forbid win it really would be the most magical way for us to leave
the stadium, home to so many special FA cup memories. My dad must have told
me his day at the 1980 FA Cup final so many times that I couldn't count now
and to be able to do this in the last season at the Boleyn Ground would be
the utopian send-off that the old girl truly deserves.

I have been "lucky" enough to have already been to two FA Cup Semi Finals in
my life time and to one final (the Liverpool one) and those games will
forever live in my memory. Imagine what it would be like to experience us
winning the FA Cup. I wasn't born the last time we did and as the years
tick by less and less of us have had that privilege and surely this has to
change soon?

I read an interesting omen today that the last time we did the double over
Liverpool was the first time we won the FA Cup. I am a great believer in
stories and fate and I can't help but think this could be history repeated.

It would also be a superb thing to start the new season at the Olympic
stadium with European football available too. I know we didn't take it as a
priority this year but this was because we entered so early if we won the FA
cup we would enter much further into the competition and have a normal
preseason!

It is fitting for me that we play Wolves in the match, the same team who we
played after Bobby Moore's death. That game lives in my memory and I am
glad we get to play them again after they contributed to an emotional day in
1993.

The atmosphere will be buzzing and it is also a great chance for us to get a
few players fitness up as well. I cannot wait for this match and I hope to
here Que Sera Sera around the Boleyn Ground at some point on Saturday as
that timeless classic's days are numbered at the stadium like most things.
The matches are running out but let's have a long FA Cup run to extend those
days that little bit longer!!

COYI EXWHUEmployee

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Former Hammers Hero signs for Sky Blues
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News C and H

Hammers Hero Joe Cole has penned a permanent deal to stay at Coventry City
until the end of the season after being on loan there since October. 34 year
old Cole has made seven appearances for the Sky Blues, scoring once, and
boss Tony Mowbray has praised his impact for the Sky Bet League One
promotion hopefuls. Mowbray told the club's official site: "Since he joined
the club, I've really enjoyed working with Joe and delighted to see him sign
on for the rest of the season". "Our staff have worked hard with him to
build up his fitness and physicality, and we've seen Joe really buy into
what we're trying to do here." "He's great to have around the dressing room
and the rest of the squad feed off his experience, and I'm sure it'll have a
positive impact on our younger players as well." "I only see his
performances for the club getting better and he is a fantastic option to
have from now until the end of the season." Cole only played 16 times for
Villa after a switch from West Ham in 2014 following his second spell with
the Hammers but had only made once appearance for them this season.

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Bilic: "I would rather win the FA Cup"
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 8, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H

West Ham Manager Slaven Bilic says he would rather win the FA Cup then
qualify for the Champions league. "I would rather win the FA Cup than get a
place in the Champions League - all day long. Ideally finishing fifth or
sixth as well would be nice. I want to win silverware. I remember the FA Cup
about 20 years ago and still now the final can't be bigger. It's a
celebration.
"We're doing well in the Premier League and we're not looking for anything
to make up for it. We're not in a position to worry about league position so
we want to progress in the cup. small_320_David_Sullivan"We went out of the
Capital One Cup earlier in the season against Leicester City in extra time
but we gave out best in that game. We see the FA Cup as an opportunity to
progress. The FA Cup has never lost its value and it's special to the fans."
In the past two seasons the Hammers have crashed out of the FA Cup in
embarrassing fashion under the former manager. They were hammered 5-0 by
Nottingham Forest two seasons ago when Allardyce famously put the kids to
the sword and then endured a 4-0 thrashing inflicted on them by West
Bromwich Albion last season. Creepy AllardyceAllardyce was accused of
disrespecting the FA Cup when West Ham's smattering of first-team regulars,
six players under 21 and three debutants were put to the sword in the 5-0
humiliation against Forest. Last season West Ham co-owner David Sullivan was
confronted by angry fans outside The Hawthorns after the Hammers' 4-0 FA Cup
defeat. Shocking video footage shows Sullivan responding to abuse from a
group of supporters after he left the ground before full-time after what he
described as West Ham's 'worst performance of the season'. The fans were
heard abusing and swearing at the club's co-owner and urging him to sack
manager Sam Allardyce at the time.

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Former Hammer joins Arsenal's coaching staff Posted by Sean Whetstone on
January 8, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed former Hammer Freddie Ljungberg
is helping the club's under-15 side as he looks to qualify for his coaching
badges. According to the Press Association, Ljungberg will remain with
Arsenal's under-15s until the end of the 2015-16 season. The Swede announced
his excitement at the prospect of coaching at Arsenal via his official
Twitter account, with Ljungberg. "Hope everyone had a happy new year.
Enjoying my last week in Cape Town before I go home to coach Arsenals u-15!
V excited :-) Arsenal"

Ljungberg joined West Ham in July 2007 on a four year contract after nine
years are Arsenal but West Ham and Ljungberg agreed to terminate his
contract by mutual agreement in 2008 just one year later. At the time, the
31 year old Ljungberg said in a statement on the club's website: "I gave my
all at West Ham and enjoyed my time there but the decision is the best for
the both of us. Now I will take my time to consider my football future." He
made 25 league appearances during his only year at West Ham, scoring twice.

He was rumoured to have been on a wage of £85,000-a-week for his four-year
contract at West Ham. Reports at the time claimed that Ljungberg received a
one-off payment of £6 million for his early departure. In the financial
accounts of that year the finance wrote about Kieron Dyer and Freddie
Ljungberg "Two players who signed in the summer 2007 transfer window, one of
whom has since left the club, have started a combined total of 32 games and
will have cost the group £34m over the term of their contracts."

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Slav's the man - no teacher's pets in sight Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on
January 8, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H By Brian Neil Gay

WITH the halfway point reached this season it is interesting to note that
while in terms of points wise we are in a similar position to last year it
feels so much better this time around.
It was this time last year of course that the great slide was underway as
the trap door opened and our form fell away. We all know what torture it was
attending or watching matches between January and May 2015.

So just why is there this feeling that we are in a much better place this
year? Has Slaven Billic really made that much difference? He's had injuries
to contend with just as Sam Allardyce faced last year so what is different?

For some clues to the answers let's look at the festive period from the last
two years, a time which in reality has not been that productive for the
Irons for many a year. Under Sam Allardyce we went into the 2014 Xmas period
the form team in the top 4 and looking good. Then the injuries kicked in and
without Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia's up front double act, the form that
had taken us towards the top was about to crumble and disintegrate. We
simply could not cope.

Under Billic we entered the 2015 Xmas period already battered and
beleaguered with numerous injuries to our first 11 yet we have managed to
have go several games unbeaten with a largely makeshift 1st 11. They
weathered the storm and with first Lanzini and then Payet returning, the
team were back to winning ways suggesting that the slide of last year will
not be repeated.
The fact that we went through those matches without key players unbeaten
would seem to me to be down to the way Billic has managed the second, third
and fourth choice players in the squad.
Yes you can point out that SB has been furnished with a deeper squad than SA
before him but ironically it's players from the previous charges squad that
Billic is making into better players.

A classic case in point is James Collins in what he describes as being, and
it is difficult to argue with him, in the form of his life. Told he was
fourth choice CB at the start of the season JC has knuckled down and grafted
and taken his chance with both hands. I wonder if anyone told they were
fourth choice under SA would have put that sort of effort in?

James Tomkins is another who looked to be at best third choice for his 1st
team place but rather than consider a move he's battled hard impressing
Billic enough to go from being a makeshift RB to one who is now considered
above to original first choice for that position Carl Jenkinson.

Two examples of guys in the background putting the effort in and impressing
the gaffer. Two guys who are Irons assets too.

Michail Antonio is another after the joy of signing for a PL side he's had
to wait patiently working hard in training. Can't be easy when you have been
one of the top goalscorers in the Championship, used to being the main man,
look at Patrick Bamford's experience at Palace. Michail is another working
not only for himself but for the gaffer, prepared to wait for his chance
rather than look for a loan and regular first team runs elsewhere. Unlike
Bamford, Michail waited, worked and his chance came when another of our
expensive loans Victor Moses was injured. He might be raw and a bit wild at
times but the effort is there for all to see, the potential too and now he's
scoring who knows how far he will go? Let's be honest Moses for all his at
times excellence is hit or miss and he's been that way for a a few years now
and is in danger of becoming a short term journeyman.

Let's move onto Andy Carroll. His last few displays for me have been pretty
much better than anything I saw from him under Allardyce, more rounded more
complete but still with the end result he is known for. Could this be down
to the fact that he is no longer taken for granted as the main man who the
team is built around but one who has to fight for his place? On the evidence
of his form now and the way his rehab from injury has been handled, this
time it seems to me that yes he very much does want to perform for the
gaffer. No toys thrown, no prima donna off field displays , just a
willingness to accept and battle for his place. This suggests to me The
gaffer has orted him.

Even Enner Valencia's, recent contributions, without Diafra Sakho alongside
him, have been far more effective than any from last season when he was
without DS as a partner. I think the boss must be getting more from EV too.
It is also good to see improvement in the newer signings like Angleo Ogbonna
and Pedro Obiang their recent efforts much better than the early form.
With some of these stand-ins showing their best form it could be difficult
for the like of Winston Reid and Moses to get back in straight away and that
can only be good to maintain a high standard all round. For me these are all
the signs that Billic as a man manger is right up there, he's not one to
have teacher's pets, no one is guaranteed their place and everyone has to
work for it. Yet it is the sign of largely settled squad, if any of them had
any doubt about dissent, step out of line and you can expect to become the
next Morgan Amalfitano.

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Collison to return to West Ham
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 8, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H

Former Hammer Jack Collison will return to the Boleyn Ground one last time
to play in Mark Noble's testimonial on 28th March. Jack tweeted "Honoured to
have been asked to play in the Mark Noble testimonial.. Can't wait to go
back to the Boleyn" Earlier this week Barry Fry has revealed that Jack
Collison's playing career is coming to a sad end but that his managerial
career is ready to take off at Peterborough United. West Ham released him
with a heavy heart at the end of last season and although Ipswich Town
handed him a short-term contract in September, he injured his left knee in a
practice match and was unable to make a single appearance for Mick
McCarthy's side. Fry has revealed on MooreThanJustAPodcast that it only
remains for Jack to make the final decision to retire. He explains the
player has seen consultants and reveals all the medical advice he's
received.

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Joe Cole agrees to Boleyn Ground return
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 8, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H

Joe Cole has been the latest former Hammer to agree to a Boleyn Ground
return for Mark Noble's testimonial. Noble posted a photo of a young Joe
Cole in a West Ham shirt saying "Confirmed!!! What a man"

Cole yesterday agreed to a permanent free transfer to stay at Coventry City
until the end of the season after being on loan there since October from
Villa. The 34 year old Cole has made seven appearances for the Sky Blues
this season, scoring once. Cole only played just 16 times for Villa after a
switch from West Ham in 2014 following his second spell with the Hammers.

Joe Cole joins Jack Collison, Dean Ashton, Gary O'Neil, Jimmy Walker, Ravel
Morrison, Carlton Cole, Rio Ferdinand and Trevor Sinclair who have all
announced they will be taking part in Nobes' special Easter day. Paolo Di
Canio is also thought to have been approached by Noble and has accepted
while Carlos Tevez and Gianfranco Zola have been approached but have yet to
confirm their availability.

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"I nearly signed James Collins" "Ex left back and the full monty"
January 7, 2016
The WestHamWay.co.uk
Kenny Brown

I was looking forward to having a lazy Saturday morning and watching the
Liverpool game on TV. A late call on Friday evening changed that and I was
instead getting ready to get picked up and taken to the game !My mate had a
spare ticket and thankfully picked up the phone to me. Even better, it was
in the Chicken Run !

I got picked up and the three of us headed to a local cafe. We stopped at
one and there was only 1 person in there, Keith Rowland smashing his way
through a full monty ha ha. Keith used to live with me when he moved up
from Bournemouth. We've remained good friends. Half hour later and were on
our way to Upton Park through the usual traffic up the Barking Road !

We all didn't know what to expect from the game and all would have taken a
draw beforehand. When Liverpool come to Upton Park, its never a
disappointing game and Saturday's was no exception. I really enjoy watching
West Ham this season, they work hard, look solid defensively and are
exciting going forward. It was my first chance to watch Antonio live and he
was very impressive. Physically strong, quick and powerful, at times
Liverpool could not handle him.

His goal summed up his afternoon, making a sliding tackle on the edge of our
box and then arriving at the opposite end to head home from 6 yards out 9
seconds later. For me though, the stand out player by a mile was James
Collins, Benteke didn't get a kick or header all afternoon. Taking nothing
away from us, but i was disappointed with Liverpool and think thats the
worst Liverpool side Ive seen. It was also good to see Payet making a 20
minute cameo appearance after his injury. All in all what a great way to
see in 2016 and we can now put the League to one side and concentrate on a
good Cup run.

Little story was I tried to buy Ginge when he was a kid at Cardiff City and
I was Manager at Barry Town. I went and watched a reserve game and he was
playing as a centre forward. Big, aggressive and a real handful. Lennie
Lawrence was the Manager at the time but thought too much of him to let him
go. Proved to be a wise decision !

Saturday brings Wolves to Upton Park in the 3rd round of the FA Cup but I
will be up at Everton watching our Dag & Red 1st team. FA Cup games are
always special and my best memory was scoring at Wycombe in a 2-0 win in the
4th round. All the press and TV were predicting a Cup shock but we were
comfortable winners with TC and myself scoring the goals.I came on as a 2nd
half substitute and scored our 2nd goal with a header from a Michael Hughes
cross.

Good memories.

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Don Hutchison reacts on Twitter to Pardew's Warnock comments, discusses West
Ham fallout HITC Tim Poole

The former West Ham midfielder was impressed with the Crystal Palace boss's
'refreshing' honesty. Don Hutchison is a big fan of Crystal Palace boss Alan
Pardew's response when questioned about Neil Warnock on Thursday afternoon.
Indeed, Hutchison worked with Pardew at West Ham United and admits there was
some fallout, with the two hardly being 'best of mates.' However, he took to
Twitter on Thursday to praise the former West Ham boss, who completely
dismissed talk of his Crystal Palace predecessor Warnock at a press
conference. The 54-year-old was initially asked about Warnock's suggestion
that Charlie Austin would be a good fit for Palace, as reported by the
Guardian among others.

Come off brilliantly

Unless you're Warnock himself, it's hard not to be impressed by Pardew's
retort. The Palace boss often divides opinion and isn't afraid to give his
own. On this occasion, though, it's come off brilliantly. Rarely has a
Premier League manager responded with such succinct venom, looking all the
better for it instead of the usual press-conference waffle produced by
coaches.
Pardew may well be remembered in a hit-and-miss fashion by West Ham fans -
and Hutchison himself - but Crystal Palace fans have every reason to love
him right now.

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West Ham troll Mark Lawrenson after BBC pundit predicts another Hammers
defeat VAISHALI BHARDWAJ 11 minutes ago0 comments Eveing Standard

West Ham have once again trolled BBC pundit Mark Lawrenson after the former
Liverpool defender predicted yet another defeat for the Hammers this
weekend. Writing in his column for BBC Sport, Lawrenson said West Ham could
lose to Championship side Wolves in their FA Cup third round clash at Upton
Park on Saturday, despite the Hammers having secured a morale-boosting
victory over Liverpool last weekend. After talking about the other FA Cup
ties, Lawrenson wrote: "I also have a feeling that West Ham might slip up
against Wolves, who were struggling until recently but have won three in a
row since Christmas."
Lawrenson has already predicted 13 losses - and just two wins - in the
Premier League for Slaven Bilic's side before his FA Cup one which, if had
happened, would have left the Hammers sitting second from bottom in the
table and not in sixth place, where they currently are. Unsurprisingly,
then, such predictions from the ex-Liverpool man has resulted in West Ham's
Twitter account flagging up Lawrenson's inaccurate foretelling abilities on
the social network site.

The Hammers wrote on their Twitter account on Thursday night: "LAWRO: We are
sure you are all as surprised as we were that Lawro has predicted #WestHam
will lose on Saturday!" The tweet resulted in fans also having their say on
Lawrenson's predictions, with some of the best responses listed below.

Neil Ewins @neilorange63
@whufc_official Has he EVER predicted a West Ham win...?
8:01 PM - 7 Jan 2016

Rob James Cook @RobJCook1
@whufc_official as a wolves fan i'm shocked!
7:43 PM - 7 Jan 2016

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Slaven Bilic: West Ham fans won't ask 'who is this player?' We'll respect FA
Cup SLAVEN BILIC 3 hours ago0 comments Evening Standard

We have a break from the Premier League and I can definitely say I am
thrilled about the prospect of meeting Wolves in the third round of the FA
Cup tomorrow. The FA Cup, even when I was growing up in Croatia, was a big,
big thing. Of course, it is much more difficult to win the League, but the
Cup gives almost any club hope that they can work a miracle. When I was in
the early stages of my days as a player, the Cups in all the European
countries were big because if you won you went on to participate in the
Cup-winners' Cup the following season. Back then, every club tried to win
the Cup, but as things have moved on, the emphasis has changed, along with
the European club competitions and it has become more, let's say,
interesting to finish third or fourth in the League than to win the Cup in
some countries.

As a result, the big clubs in Italy started doing their best to exit from
the Cup and select second teams for those games. However, in England, the FA
Cup still has that magical feel, despite all the changes and other
priorities. Also, in Germany, the Cup remains a big thing. To be fair, the
Italian clubs are going back to the way things used to be and are again
treating their Cup seriously - the way it should be. In none of these other
countries does the Cup have quite the appeal or the reputation of the FA
Cup. It stands alone in that respect.
It was - and still is - a big, big thing.

Bilic on the Olympic Stadium...

I was back at the Olympic Stadium this week to give a tour to a young
competition winner called Ross Miller and his family. I've been three times
now and each time I'm excited because it's simply a great stadium. I think
Ross was a little overwhelmed by it all! Kids don't try to hide their
emotions and his jaw hit the floor when he saw it. It's still amazing for
us, let alone for him. We're in the middle of the season and we're totally
focused on it, but still we are looking forward to moving to our fantastic
new home. From a playing point of view, I did not enjoy great success in the
Cup. I had just arrived in London and was awaiting my work permit when West
Ham played their third-round tie at Upton Park in January, 1996. Honestly, I
can't remember the opposition, but I remember that we won. It was the first
time I had watched West Ham live. The following season, we were drawn away
to Wrexham. I didn't play in the first game, which ended in a draw - my son
Leo was born while it was taking place - but I was in the team for the
replay, which we lost 1-0. I remember it was by far the lowest point of that
season. That was my memory of the Cup at West Ham - not the best, to be
fair. David Sullivan has promised the fans we will be fielding a strong team
for tomorrow's match against Wolves and I completely agree with that. Yes,
we have an important Premier League match at Bournemouth three days later,
but I have options. I want to give some players a chance to start, because
perhaps they have been out with injuries, while it will be an opportunity to
rest a few others because of the busy schedule we have had. You only have to
look at Liverpool's injuries this week to see what happens when fatigue sets
in. Even if we make changes, though, it's not going to be new players who
haven't played much but rather players who have been involved regularly up
to now. I can promise the fans they won't be looking at the team and asking,
"Who is this in our team?"

Of course, though, we must be aware the Bournemouth game comes quickly
afterwards and just lately we have played many games. We would like not to
take a risk with one or two of the players, but we are aiming to progress in
the Cup as far as possible, so we have to find the balance. One player who
definitely won't be out there is Manuel Lanzini. He has suffered a
recurrence of the same thigh injury and, once again, we don't know if he
will be out for four weeks - or six. We will miss him, because he's been an
influential player for us but, hopefully, when he does return we'll still be
on the Cup trail.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfers: Slaven Bilic tells us Andy Carroll is not for sale, but
Hammers could loan young stars SLAVEN BILIC 59 minutes ago0 comments
Evening Standard

The opening of the transfer window has inevitably meant an avalanche of
speculation and rumours. Basically, from our point of view, we are counting
on the players we have in the squad.
No one has approached us directly about anyone yet and, as far as I am
concerned, I want everyone to stay. We don't have the biggest squad - yes,
it is sufficient when everyone is fit - and are not looking to offload
players. There will be a few of our younger players who haven't had the
opportunity to play a lot but are definitely in my head as prospects for the
future who could go out on loan. That's because only that way will they
show me and my staff that they are ready to jump into the team when their
chance comes around next season. For the rest - and that includes Andy
Carroll - we are not looking to part with them. Every time Andy plays well
or scores a goal there is more talk about either him playing for England
again or attracting the interest of one or two other clubs. He is our
player, though, and we are expecting a lot from him for the rest of this
season.

WE'VE RUSHED BACK INTO OUR HQ
We've returned to our training headquarters at Chadwell Heath after moving a
couple of miles down the road to Rush Green for several weeks to give the
pitches time to repair. To be fair, Rush Green is not yet ready for the
first team to train there regularly, but the boys didn't moan at all and the
pitches there were okay. They've started working at Rush Green, meanwhile,
and there are plans for a brand new centre there, so we look forward to
returning when it is all finished. In the meantime, I have no doubts that
the facilities at Chadwell Heath are perfectly adequate for the rest of the
season.

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West Ham transfer news: Slaven Bilic targets Juventus striker Simone Zaza
KEN DYER 19 minutes ago0 comments Evening Standard

West Ham are interested in bringing in Juventus and Italy striker Simone
Zaza on loan this month. The Upton Park club tried to sign the 24-year-old
last summer but are considering returning with a loan bid during the
transfer window. Tottenham have also been linked with the player. However,
the move is likely to depend on whether there are any departures this month
as West Ham say they have reached their wage cap for the season. One player
who has been rumoured to be a possible departure is Argentine striker Mauro
Zarate, who has been linked with Spanish club Malaga. Zaza, who has scored
one goal in seven international appearances, has had limited game time for
Juventus this season but the Serie A champions insist they want to keep him
for the remainder of the season. West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has already
said he is anticipating a quiet January.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Angelo Ogbonna: West Ham are as tough as Juventus SAM LONG 13 hours ago0
comments Evening Standard

Angelo Ogbonna believes West Ham have matched the mentality and resilience
of Juventus during the east Londoners' recent injury crisis. Slaven Bilic's
side have enjoyed an impressive start to the season and currently occupy
sixth place in the table - just four points adrift of the top four. The
Hammers' form - which included a disappointing run of five successive draws
- has been achieved without the services of several key players and the
defender has been impressed with the manner in which Slaven Bilic's side
have coped with setbacks this term. "We have had a bad period because Manuel
Lanzini, Dimitri Payet, Enner Valencia, Victor Moses and Diafra Sakho have
been injured," he told the Sun. "But we changed our system really quickly.
Also our tactics. It's not been easy but in that period we have only lost
once in eight. "Do I recognise this mentality and resilience from Juventus?
Yes I do. "We have a lot of character to change, to suffer, to maintain our
temperament," Ogbonna insisted. The central defender won two Serie A titles
with Juventus before his summer move to Upton Park but has no regrets about
his decision to swap Turin for east London. West Ham are expected to compete
for a place in Europe during the second half of the season and Ogbonna has
not ruled out a top-four finish ahead of the club's move to the Olympic
Stadium. "When I came from Juventus I felt there was an opportunity for me
and the club. I knew the coach and the quality of the players. "Can we
finish in the top four? Why not? "We have to take care of ourselves and
focus on what we want to do. We will see at the end of the season."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 8th January 2016

Moose's Memories - Scott Parker Part 2
WHUFC.com

In Part 2 of his interview with Ian 'Moose' Abrahams, Scott Parker recalls
his most memorable moments in Claret and Blue...

Last weekend we faced Liverpool, and for me what epitomised Scott Parker as
a player and a man was the performance he put in against The Merseysiders
here five years ago, which saw him secure the Premier League Player of the
Month Award. Scott scored in a 3-1 Premier League win. On the face of it,
nothing too much stands out about that result but for Scott, he played
through personal and physical pain that February afternoon. "It was a
special goal and win for personal reasons, as it was the last game my Dad
was able to come to and see me play before he died," he said. "But the day
before, I had bust my shoulder in training, and had injections that day and
on the morning of the match so I could play. "I don't normally believe in
fate, but to score a goal to win the game and really play well, and for that
to be the last game he saw made it perfect."

Unless he plays in Mark Noble's Testimonial – by the way well done to West
Ham for giving our Club captain that honour – Scott won't get to play here
again before the move to the Olympic Stadium, so what does he make of the
move?

"Every club, with the way football is going, has to move on. The new Stadium
will be amazing and take West Ham to a different level. Of course you're
leaving behind something special, and in terms of Upton Park, especially
under the lights when it was rocking there was no better place to play, and
when the fans are behind you, it was very hard to play against West Ham.
"I have seen it from both sides, but football moves on and the Olympic
Stadium will be fantastic."

Fantastic – a word I couldn't have chosen better myself to describe a man I
came to know very well during his time here; a man I still know very well
and am proud to be friendly with (oh and how proud he'll be when he reads
this I didn't once refer to him as 'Scotty'!).

Anyway last word to Scott.

What is the one memory that sticks out from his four years as a West Ham
player.

"The game at home to Wigan under Gianfranco Zola, I scored with five minutes
to go to win the game (Ilan and Radoslav Kovac had scored the other Hammers
goals, but with 85 minutes on the clock it was 2-2, when Scott fired home a
sensational strike from 25 yards). That is the moment I still think about
now. "We were struggling and that win gave us a safety net. Many times I
walked off the pitch at Upton Park and I felt proud of my performance, but
that is the one game and moment I will always remember."

What a man and what a player. Scott makes my all-time XI from players I've
seen play here in the last 40 years.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chadwell Chatter - Darren Randolph
WHUFC.com

Hello everyone,


We have a big Emirates FA Cup game against Wolves on Saturday and I will be
ready for action if the manager wants me to start the game.
I have had to be patient, but I have been training hard and waiting for my
chance to play. I felt like I showed Slaven and everyone else that I am good
enough to play at the highest level when I was given a chance earlier in the
season. I then went away with the Republic of Ireland squad and helped them
qualify for the Euro Finals this summer. I have the belief and that is the
only thing that counts. I believe in my own ability and what I can do and I
just want to show it. If I am given the chance to play it is more game time
for me and it will be good to be back in the match stage surroundings where
you are actually playing. The FA Cup is a big competition for everyone. For
me growing up it was always one of the biggest cup competitions and you
remember the weekends when cup upsets took place and the lower league sides
beat top flight opposition. I still have good memories of when Millwall
played Manchester United in the Final back in 2004 because I went to college
with a few of the Millwall players. It would be great if we could get to the
Final this season and it would be the perfect way for us to leave the Boleyn
Ground if we could win a trophy.

We have had so many games over the Christmas period that we have not had a
chance to think about it, but I am sure the further we go in the
competition, the players will start to think about that scenario. Anything
is possible and you see it every season when a team has a good run in a cup
competition. People were still talking about the club winning the League Cup
when I moved to Birmingham and it was a reminder for them of the successful
times they had. You want to win trophies as a player and hopefully we can do
really well in the FA Cup this season.

Enjoy the game on Saturday.
Darren

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boleyn Insider
WHUFc.com

The Boleyn Insider is back and brings you exclusive insight into the
behind-the-scenes goings on at the Boleyn Ground.

The January transfer window has now re-opened and speculation has already
started surrounding possible departures and arrivals over the next few
weeks.

The Hammers were extremely busy during the summer bringing in 12 new players
and Slaven Bilic has stated that he is happy with the squad and will only
consider making a signing if an exceptional player becomes available or the
Club consider a loan move.

There has been speculation in the media surrounding the futures of several
players, but my understanding is that no first-team players are for sale
unless the opportunity arises to buy an even better player.

I have been told that Diafra Sakho will be back in a month and the Club are
happy with the strength-in-depth they now have in the squad.

My sources tell me that the Club have spent all their wages for the year, so
unless somebody goes there is no movement to do anything else. The Club has
a wage cap that is set by the Premier League.

There have been reports suggesting the club are considering a move for
Juventus striker Simone Zaza.

My understanding is that Zaza is a player the club greatly admire and they
tried to sign him last summer. He scored again on Wednesday night and the
Club might try something again this month.

These are certainly exciting times with the move to the new Stadium during
the summer and I have been told that the Club are already putting plans in
place to make a big move for a proven and established striker at the end of
the season who can score 20 goals and help take them to the next level.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Player Blog - Dean Ashton
WHUFc.com

Former West Ham United and England centre forward Dean Ashton is looking
forward to FA Cup third round weekend and cannot wait to play his part in
Mark Noble's Testimonial!

We have come into the New Year on a seven-game unbeaten run and on the back
of two really good wins. Considering we have had injuries in that spell, it
shows how far we have come and how much better the squad can cope this year.

It did get frustrating drawing a few games but back-to-back wins over
Southampton and Liverpool have been great to see, as was seeing the players
who perhaps had not been first choice like Michail Antonio and Andy Carroll
come in and play so well.

I'm sure Slaven Bilic was quite surprised to get all of those special away
wins at the start of the season, but now he'll be really encouraged by the
fact his squad has coped so well without the likes of Dimitri Payet, Manuel
Lanzini and Diafra Sakho.

It certainly seems that the squad is set up to continue their form over the
course of the whole season. We are now just past the halfway stage and I
think it is not unjust to think we can finish in the European places.

I think Champions League still is a big ask, just because other clubs can
and will go out and spend in January, but certainly a top five or six finish
is within our grasp; and if we do a bit better, what a special achievement
that would be.

Before we go back to the Premier League next week, however, we've got a big
FA Cup tie at the Boleyn on Saturday against Wolves.

As has been the case in recent seasons, the magic really seems to have come
back to this competition and West Ham are one of those clubs which is big
enough to take advantage of others fielding slightly weakened sides and go
on and win it.

It's a special weekend for everyone involved and of course I have got great
FA Cup memories. Growing up, I always loved watching it and wanting to be
part of it and to go on and win it.

Obviously to get so close to winning it with West Ham in 2006 was great in
one sense, but heart-breaking in another.

This weekend, a home draw is what you want, and with it being against a
lower-division side there is a good chance to win it.

There are players who will want to play in this game, like Payet and Carl
Jenkinson, and get minutes on the pitch and that's exactly what you want.

Another player who could start is Andy Carroll, who has scored and played
well in recent matches. Going through injury problems myself, I felt sorry
for Andy when people were writing him off and saying he was injury-prone and
seemed to never come back.

When he got fit, he had to be patient and wait for his chance, which was
difficult, but now he is in the side and match-fit, I don't think there is
anybody better at heading the ball in world football.

Talking of getting match-fit, Mark Noble made my day last week when he
invited me to play in his Testimonial in April. I'm definitely going to have
to do some training, though!

I am so excited about it, honestly, to be involved in such an event in the
last season at Upton Park. I am sure it will be sold out and will be a
fitting event for Mark Noble, who is such a great servant to the Club and is
such an under-rated player. He is so much better than people think and he
should have played for England by now.

His consistency level has been brilliant and now he has taken on the
captaincy. You want a West Ham captain to embody everything about the Club,
and he does that. You only have to see the video clips of him crying after
the Spurs game when he first got into the team to see what West Ham means to
him – he thoroughly deserves his Testimonial and I cannot wait to be part of
it.

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View on the Visitors - Wolves
WHUFc.com

The Express and Star's Wolverhampton Wanderers' correspondent Tim Spiers
gives us the lowdown on Saturday's visitors

Three wins in a row, Wolves must be full of confidence going into Saturday's
game?

"Yeah, it's kind of come out of nowhere really; they had a couple of
thrashings against Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday just before
Christmas which left them in a bit of trouble. They were far closer to the
bottom then the top six, the pressure was certainly on Kenny Jackett. They
were leaking goals and had no-one really to come into the side and change
it.

"To counteract that, he's completely changed the tactics to 4-5-1, gone
ultra-defensive, stuck the midfield just in-front of the back four which has
ground out three wins and three clean sheets.

"It's certainly given Jackett some breathing room and the season has been
transformed over those six days really. They're certainly looking up to the
Play Offs rather than over their shoulders."

Which players have stood out so far this season, who we should look out for?

"Jordan Graham has been the one standout to really catch the eye, he's only
played eight or nine games but he's been pretty much Man-of-the-Match in
every one and has contributed seven assists in that time. He's a left-winger
who was on loan at Oxford United but they brought him back and now he's
absolutely flying.

"He picked up an ankle knock against Brighton on New Years' Day so it's
touch and go whether he'll be available for today's game. He's certainly a
danger man.

"Otherwise, you've got Benik Afobe, he may not have hit the heights of last
season but he' still scoring pretty regularly, he's scored nine goals now
this season. He's a real special talent and can make something happen out of
nothing."

How important is the FA Cup for Wolves this season, how does it compare in
significance to the League campaign?

"It's a game they certainly want to win and it would keep the momentum going
massively. He's picked the same team in all three games over the Christmas
period so I'd expect some changes.

"As far as priorities go, the league is definitely the most important.
They've got a lot of work to do if they want to get into the Play Offs. It's
certainly a game that Kenny Jackett is looking forward to, obviously as a
former Millwall manager there's a huge rivalry there."

Whatever happens, this'll be Wolves' last visit to the Boleyn Ground, are
there any standout moments for you throughout the years?

"Back in 2010, Wolves came here and won 3-1. It was an important win because
they were in the relegation zone at the time. Generally they haven't done
too well away at West Ham.
"Back in 1990, Liam Brady played his last ever game against Wolves, West Ham
won 4-0 and he scored late on, he was an excellent player."

What is your prediction for Saturday's score?

"I'm expecting a good game. Wolves sold out their allocation of 3,000 a week
ago so there should be a strong following and a good atmosphere. It also
depends on how seriously West Ham take the game. Wolves are certainly
capable of getting a 1-1 draw."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Speaks - Wolves
WHUFc.com

West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic was in optimistic mood when he faced the
media on Thursday ahead of the weekend's Emirates FA Cup tie with
Wolverhampton Wanderers.

With the Hammers having now not lost in seven starts and with several
players on the cusp of returns from injury, Bilic is hopeful of
kick-starting cup run against the Sky Bet Championship side…

Can we just start with an injury update? First of all with Lanzini…

SB: "It's the same injury as he had before. Hopefully a few weeks, I just
spoke to him and it's one of those injuries that you don't really think it a
big one. That's how he reported it the first time before we played
Manchester United. At training on Friday he did a normal training and took a
few free-kicks. He felt it a little bit, but thought he was going to be ok
for the game but was out for four weeks.

"Now it's the same, against Southampton he came on in the second half, made
a huge impact and felt nothing afterwards. He played against Liverpool, and
orchestrated it, but then felt it again – not like big, but the second time
and of course we have to be cautious no matter how much we want him back.

"I'm optimistic and he's working hard on his recovery and hopefully he will
be back in two or three weeks."

What about some of the others – are they close to coming back?

SB: "Payet is back. It's a different type of injury because it was the
ankle. That's ok and it's a lot easier to predict the risk with that injury
– basically there is no risk unless someone kicks him in the ankle again.
With the muscle it is a little bit different.

"Winston Reid has trained with us for a few days now and we'll see how it
goes for the cup game. Moses is back, not totally with us, but he is doing
his stuff on the pitch and is close to being back in full training with us,
apparently after the cup game. There's only Sakho after that, but also for
him is looks like he is way ahead of the schedule, so maybe the beginning of
February, but that's all on paper."

There have been headlines on Andy Carroll, with the window open. Could you
give us the Club's stance on it?

SB: "Not me, or the Chairmen have said [that the Club is willing to listen
to offers]. We want Andy to stay, we want Andy to perform like he performed
in most of the games he has played for us. Nobody has said from the Club
that we want to sell him.

"He is a very popular and good player, and every time he scores a goal
rumours start. You can't stop them if you are playing well. We need him, and
we need him like he has been in the last few games he has started."

Looking at Saturday's game, Wolves are in mid-table in the Championship but
have won their last three. Have you had much chance to watch them?

SB: "I've watched a few games and they are on a good run. They are a very
compact team and very confident because they have not conceded in three
games. They are hard to beat and good on the counter attack. It's a cup
tie, and always a platform for big surprises, but of course we are
approaching the FA Cup very seriously.

"We are expecting a tough game, but we are playing at home, but I am
expecting us to play good and progress."

You've got a good record recently too – seven unbeaten and only three
conceded in that time. How important has the back four been in that?

SB: "Very important, of course. Our defence and resilience, and positive
stubbornness that we've shown is not only the back four, but the whole team
who have defended as a unit.

"The back four gets the praise for that, starting with the goalkeeper, but
it was the whole team who defended and made it a little bit easier for the
back four players. We showed a pattern of how we had to play, and we almost
predicted what would happen when those players with flair came back,
starting with Lanzini and then the same for Dimitri against Liverpool. But
we kept that defensive part of the game too – that's why we are very
positive in the Club.

"On the other hand that is history, we can't rely on that. Now we have a big
game on Saturday and a big game on Tuesday. The show goes on. We have to
show it every week."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll: Slaven Bilic rules out selling West Ham striker
BBC.o.uk

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has ruled out selling striker Andy Carroll
during the January transfer window. Carroll has been out with injury for
much of this season and has been linked with moves to Sunderland or former
club Newcastle. But he recently returned with two goals in two games and
Bilic said: "We don't want to sell him. "He's very good in the dressing room
and I know he's happy here. The club aren't willing to listen to offers."
Carroll, 27, has scored in wins over Southampton and Liverpool to propel the
Hammers to sixth in the table. "Whenever he scores a couple of goals the
rumours start," Bilic said. "The only way he can stop the rumours is to play
badly, which we don't want." A former Newcastle player, Carroll joined West
Ham from Liverpool for a club record £15m in June 2013.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini to return in 'two or three weeks'
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

Manuel Lanzini should be back in action by the end of January - at the
latest, according to Hammers boss Slaven Bilic. The West Ham boss,speaking
to the press ahead of this weekend's FA Cup third round clash with Wolves
dismissed erroneous reports suggesting that the Argentine midfielder could
be out for up to six weeks. "It's the same injury as he had before," said
Bilic. "I just spoke to him and it's one of those injuries that you don't
really think it a big one. That's how he reported it the first time before
we played Manchester United. "Now it's the same. Against Southampton he
came on in the second half, made a huge impact and felt nothing afterwards.
He played against Liverpool, and orchestrated the game, but then felt it
again. Not big, but as it's the second time we have to be cautious no matter
how much we want him back. "I'm optimistic, he's working hard on his
recovery and hopefully he will be back in two or three weeks."

Since moving to east London on a season-long loan at the start of the season
the 22-year-old has been in sparkling form for West Ham, scoring four goals
and providing one assist in his first 14 appearances. KUMB reported
exclusively last October that West Ham have already agreed a deal with
Lanzini's parent club, Al Jazira, to take him on a permanent basis when his
season-long loan ends.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Top six is our aim, says Gold
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

West Ham co-owner David Gold believes Slaven Bilic's side has the potential
to finish in the top six this season. In a big interview featured in Blowing
Bubbles Monthly, Gold also set out his vision for West Ham for the next five
years with the main target being regular European football and also stated
the club will be debt free once the first ball is kicked at their new home
in August. "I'm sitting here right now and just for a moment I'm a fan and
I'm optimistic," he said. "Their expectations levels have risen because of
how things have gone but also because we've got some quality players. "They
didn't know what Lanzini was going to be like and how he would fit in. They
also didn't know how Payet was going to settle in and become the player that
he has been for us. "The fans will be feeling like we can finish in a
European place and I believe this side is good enough."

West Ham legend Alan Taylor has also called on Slaven Bilic and his team to
put a FA Cup run at the top of their priority list ahead of the visit of
Wolves this weekend. Speaking to Blowing Bubbles, Taylor said he believes
it's time for the club to give the fans a day out at Wembley after four
years with Sam Allardyce showing very little respect for the famous trophy.
The 62-year-old, who scored two goals in the 1975 FA Cup final against
Fulham, also feels the competition would get some of its swagger back if the
winner qualified for the Champions League.
"As a schoolboy, the FA Cup was big. The coverage would start at 8am on cup
final day and go right through the day," he explained. "But today
unfortunately, I think money talks and everybody knows that the European
scene is far bigger and greater than the FA Cup. "I'd like to see the
situation where instead of having the top four play in the Champions League,
the fourth place goes to the winners of the FA Cup [that will] I hope help
the FA Cup cup go back to how it was originally."

Elsewhere in this month's issue, George Parris writes in his column that
Slaven Bilic proved his worth as the going got tough with injuries mounting
up. "We all know Slaven wants us to be playing attacking football but last
month showed he will not sacrifice results in a bid to entertain, and we
ended 2015 in eighth place - surely we would have all taken that at the
start of the season?," George wrote. Meanwhile, writing in her column, the
KUMB Podcast's Bianca Westwood believes Michail Antonio has shown there is
lots of talent in the lower leagues. "As fantastic as the academies are I
just don't think the players coming through have that hunger that the likes
of Jamie Vardy, Charlie Austin and Callum Wilson have after plying their
trade in the lower leagues," she wrote. Blowing Bubbles' writers also
outline nine New Year resolutions that will give West Ham fans a very happy
New Year, ask where has it all gone wrong for Carl Jenkinson this year and
if it's not time football closed the transfer window for good?

The latest issue of Blowing Bubbles Monthly is now available to read for
FREE on your computer, tablet or mobile phone.
Link: http://www.blowing-bubbles.co.uk/read-our-latest-issue.html

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Hammers await an apology
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

The old saying "act in haste repent at leisure" seems particularly
appropriate in the case of the Independent newspaper which decided to
lambast West Ham and everything to do with it back in May. And West Ham
United is still awaiting an-apology given the events which have occurred
since this unfortunate piece of journalism hit the streets. Unbelievably for
such an intelligent newspaper the headline writers had one of those Sun
moments which aren't good for careers in Fleet Street these days. Under an
incredibly ill-considered headline declaring "Welcome to West Ham United:
the home of deluded fans and the most clueless owners" it launched a
staggeringly invasive attack on the club and guess why? They had decided to
part company with the former manager. Interestingly, the piece came from a
writer who offered the credentials of being a lifelong Hammer – Kiran Moody
which he presumably felt allowed him to throw everything he had in what
turned out to be a relatively limited vocabulary. It's a piece that the club
has never forgotten and last night a top insider told ClaretandHugh: "There
has never been an apology from the writer or the newspaper. However, it's
not too late and we await their "we're sorries!"
Here's some of the stuff he decided to write: On the search for a manager in
which he manages to smash Slav's credibility to bits: Rumours they want
Carlo Ancelotti; they made an approach to Jurgen Klopp; they are planning on
getting Rafa Benitez: if any of these men do come to E13, it would only be
because their club of choice did not take them. Oh but don't worry, there's
always Slaven Billic. He's never managed in the Premier League before –
whereas Sam has for over a decade – but hey, we're business people, we know
how to hire managers. Remember Avram Grant?

On the West Ham Way

Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Graeme Souness have spoken about this, with the
latter saying on Allardyce's departure: "From my time of football, I'm fed
up of hearing (about) the West Ham way. What is the West Ham way? They are a
yoyo club."

On the fans

West Ham fans have the toxic combination of being obsessed with some
historic claim to European top-flight football alongside the impatience of
the modern-day game. We were promoted back in 2012 and by 2014 we were
already calling for European football and FA Cup triumphs. How could Sam
provide FA Cup glory – missing for over three decades – just two years after
ensuring promotion, and as he tried to find stability in a league they
struggle to remain within?
On Allardyce's problems : Here is the crux of why Big Sam could never do
shine at Upton Park: because when West Ham were winning, the praise went to
those above him, and when they were losing, the fans took a sadomasochistic
happiness in it: losing is bad, but it's really good when you hate Big Sam.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Coventry confirm interest in Hammer loan
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Coventry City have confirmed are contemplating a move for West Ham defender
Reece Burke. The 19-year-old completed a loan spell at Bradford City last
weekend but suffered a gashed wrist in final game for the Bantums after
colliding with an advertising board. Sky Blues boss Tony Mowbray has told
the Coventry Telegraph: "I don't like talking about other people's players.
He's a West Ham player who has been at Bradford. We're just looking at all
options and I have looked at maybe four centre-halves this morning."

Claret and Hugh were tipped off three days ago that Burke could make a move
to the Sky Blues. Burke has made ten appearances for West Ham first team and
sixteen appearance for Bradford City on loan. He joined the West Ham junior
team age nine and made his official senior debut on 5th January 2014 for
West Ham against Notts Forest in the FA Cup. Burke's first goal for the
club came in a pre-season friendly at against Sampdoria . He scored the
winning goal in the 90th minute. Burke played the full 120 minutes against
Sheffield Utd in the league Cup second round. He made his Premier League
debut on 25th April 2015 in a 0–0 away draw against QPR.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic will respect FA Cup with winning team
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says he is fully aware of FA cup upsets will
not underestimate Wolves on Saturday in the third round of the FA cup. The
manager was speaking at a pre match conference this morning says he will be
put out a winning team that will respect the FA cup. Slav said: "The FA Cup
is a platform for upsets, you see it all the time so we will have to be
aware. We are not underestimating the challenge." "Wolves are in good
form. Saturday is a big game, we have to show what we are capable of every
week. The show goes on. We will very much play a team that we think is
capable of winning. Every manager respects the FA Cup." David Sullivan
previously told Claret and Hugh: "One of my first games at the club was
Wolves at home and we were appalling. I'd like revenge for that. It was a
Tuesday night, we were terrible."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with troubled midfielder
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Aston Villa troubled midfielder Jack Grealish has been linked with West Ham.
The latest rumours suggest that the Hammers have joined Spurs and Liverpool
in attempting to sign the 20 year old midfielder.

The report suggests that Villa are looking to cash in on their young player
after a string of high-profile 'off the field' issues over the past year.

Grealish was filmed enjoying a boozy night out in the hours after Aston
Villa's 4-0 defeat by Everton earlier this season and partying in a hotel
the next day. The attacking midfielder is said to have gone to Manchester
nightclub Panacea after playing 74 minutes of the match at Goodison Park on
Saturday.

He then travelled home to Birmingham and hosted a gathering involving two
blonde women at the Malmaison in the city centre. Footage shows Grealish,
singing into the camera in an enthusiastic manner at Panacea before
champagne bottles and sparklers arrive at the table. Last season Grealish
was in trouble with his club again after being pictured with a six-litre
£1,000 bottle of vodka while holidaying in Marbella, a month before that he
was ticked off by the club after being snapped lying in a Tenerife street
apparently drunk.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers may be forced into Byram bid
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham may be forced into early transfer action on Leeds right back after
Leeds owners say they want to sell now.

The 22 year right-back is out of contract in the summer and is refusing to
sign an extension at Elland Road. It is claimed he is attracting interest
from several Premier League clubs including Liverpool, Norwich, Everton and
West Ham.

Leeds owner Cellino admits he's rather lose Byram now and get some money
rather than wait till the summer and be relying on a compensation tribunal.

"We just want to sell Byram because he wants to leave," Cellino told the
Daily Mirror.

"It is better to lose him now. It is less painful for the club."

It is thought West Ham would need to pay around £5m to land the right side
player but prices are always inflated in the January transfer window and
with competition from Liverpool, Norwich and Everton the Hammers could be
forced into a bidding war which Sullivan would not want to do.

West Ham are understood to have a list of nine young right backs for
consideration to replace Jenkinson in the Summer so it remains to be seen
whether they let this one go or make a cheeky bid to seal the deal early.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammer mocks McDonald over jibe
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Elliot Lee has shown his funny side after responding to comments by
Blackpool boss Neil McDonald who said he would rather 'be with his mum and
dad' than playing for Blackpool on loan.

McDonald was upset about the youngster's decision to return to his parent
club rather than stay at Bloomfield Road.

Lee tweeted 'Laughable' soon after McDonald's jibe were published, seemingly
aimed at the Blackpool boss.

McDonaldHe obviously saw the funny side and followed it up with another
tweet which read: "Great day at training! Looking forward to going home and
seeing my Mummy and Daddy,"

The League One oufit signed Lee on loan until 3rd January. The 20-year-old
son of former England player Rob Lee has made seven appearances for the
Hammers in all competitions, scoring once. He also found the net three times
during an 11-game loan spell at League Two club Luton Town last season. Lee
only managed to play for Blackpool four times but failed to score in any of
his appearances.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barton: 'Cresswell deserves England call-up'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Joey Barton has told BBC 5 Live listeners on Monday that he has been
impressed with West Ham defender Aaron Cresswell and he deserves an England
call up in the near future.

"I like Cresswell at West Ham, I think he has done really well. I think he
has come on leaps and bounds, and probably deserves an England call-up at
some stage."

Barton nearly joined West Ham in the summer but instead opted to join
Burnley after the Hammers cooled their interest after a fan and alleged
player revolt. The 32 year old had already completed his medical on Tuesday
and was due to train with the club this week after his contract expired at
Queens Park Rangers.

Joey BartonAt the time Barton published a video to West Ham fans saying:

"I'd just like to thank the West Ham fans who sent me a lot of kind messages
on social media and especially on Twitter, 'I felt West Ham as a football
club would have been a good fit for me. It's a ground that I've always
enjoyed playing at with a very knowledgeable crowd, really passionate behind
the football team.

'I wish the football club all the best going forward. I think it's an
exciting time for the West Ham fans with the move to the Olympic Stadium and
the exciting squad you're building.

'I wish you all the best in the future and no hard feelings.'

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer rumours: Hammers line up £10m move for AC Milan star
By Joe Griffiths

West Ham United are chasing out of favour AC Milan star Stephan El Shaarawy.
The 22-year-old Italian was sent out on loan to French club Monaco earlier
this year but has struggled to cement a place in the first team. It is no
secret that West Ham boss Slavan Bilic is looking to invest in the wide
areas of his side and El Shaarawy fits the mould perfectly. The deal is most
likely to start off as a loan deal with a view to a permanent transfer which
could cost around the £10million pound mark.
Another host of clubs are also interested in the tricky winger though
including Bournemouth, Genoa and Fiorentina.

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NINE PL GAMES TO GO
By Tony Hanna 7 Jan 2016 at 07:00
WTID

As we move into 2016 the realisation of the move to Stratford starts to tug
at the heart strings more and more. Only nine more Premier League games to
go and we have to say goodbye to Upton Park. We all have different memories
and feelings towards the move but whatever our opinions, the move is set in
stone. Whilst nearly all who read this site and this article will be West
Ham supporters, the differences between us all is undefinable. We come from
different backgrounds, live in different countries, male and female, old and
young and the variables are endless. Of course the common factor is we love
the Hammers, some of us have for a long time, others not so long, some go to
the games and others watch on TV. Everyone has an opinion on the move to the
Olympic Stadium and I respect them all because the agendas are so diverse.


For me, I now live in Australia. Have done since I was 25. But for over a
decade West Ham was my life prior to emigrating. I rarely missed a game at
home and often went away too. My days were mainly Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst,
Brooking, Bonds, the North Bank and the Chicken Run. To the day I die those
will be my lasting memories of the football club I love. Whilst the walk
down Green Street awakens all my senses even to this day, in my opinion the
all seater stadium we now have is going to be bettered by the all seater
stadium at Stratford. This is because whilst the Boleyn is still great to
visit, my bond to it has changed. It might still be in the same place but it
is vastly different to the halcyon days of my youth. I still want to stand
at my stanchion in the old North Bank and I can't. I now have to sit on a
plastic seat. The endless singing and the crowd surges have gone, and you
can't sway to Bubbles any more and you can't do the Knees up Mother Brown.

For those of similar age to me who have continued to go throughout all the
transitions of the ground, it will be a very emotional time when they take
that final walk away from the Swansea game in May. It will leave tears in
their eyes I am sure. I took my final walk away at the Burnley game last
season so I know what I am talking about. It is not easy. Then you have
blokes like Nigel Kahn. If you have not read his article on C&H recently I
suggest you do, . Being a local, the landmarks around the ground are
nostalgic for him too and his views on the Olympic Stadium move would be far
more passionate than mine.


Then we have young Elliot Betts aged just 12. He wrote an excellent article
on here the other day, a really great effort for one so young. For nearly
his whole life his West Ham experience will be enveloped in the shiny new
stadium. Many of you reading this may have started to go to Upton Park in
more recent times after it became all seater. The stadium for you has hardly
seen any change. It is all you know. Whilst your opinions may be divided one
thing is for sure, you only have nine more Premier League games left, and
perhaps a few Cup games, before your whole match day experience will be
changed forever.

So, nine more teams are still to visit the Boleyn for the very last time in
the top flight and we are left with some cracking matches. The chance to do
the double over Arsenal and Manchester City, and games against two of our
greatest foes. Manchester United and Spurs. But perhaps the biggest of all
will be against a club the majority of us feel no emotion for at all?
Swansea City. Perhaps that game will be the most remembered of all?

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West Ham's Slaven Bilic rules out selling Andy Carroll this month
• Sunderland and Newcastle have been linked with moves for striker
• 'Nobody at the club wants to sell him, he's a very good player'
The Guardian
Thursday 7 January 2016 10.49 GMT Last modified on Thursday 7 January 2016
10.50 GMT

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic insists Andy Carroll will not be sold this
month. Sunderland, and Carroll's former club Newcastle, have been linked
with moves for the 27-year-old striker, amid reports the Hammers were
considering cashing in on a player with a bad injury record. But Bilic has
no intention of getting rid of Carroll, who has looked back to his best
recently and scored two goals in his last two matches. "The club are not
willing to listen to offers," Bilic said. "We want Andy to stay and perform
like he does in most games. "Nobody at the club wants to sell him, he's a
very good player. But whenever he scores a couple of goals the rumours
start. "The only way he can stop the rumours is to play badly, which we
don't want him to do.
"We don't want to sell him. He's very good in the dressing room and I know
he's happy here." Bilic also reported positive fitness news regarding
midfielder Manuel Lanzini. It was feared the Argentinian would be sidelined
for up to six weeks with the thigh injury he suffered against Liverpool last
Saturday, but Bilic said: "He's working hard on his recovery and hopefully
he will be back in two or three weeks." Victor Moses will not be fit for
Saturday's FA Cup tie at home to Wolves, but is due back in full training
next week, while striker Diafra Sakho could be back at the beginning of
February following a thigh injury.

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West Ham on red alert after Cellino makes big Leeds announcement
MASSIMO CELLINO has confirmed Leeds are looking to sell Sam Byram this
month.
Daily Star
By Jonathan Green / Published 7th January 2016

The right-back is out of contract in the summer and is refusing to sign an
extension at Elland Road. The 22-year-old is attracting interest from
several Premier League clubs with Liverpool, West Ham, Norwich and Everton
all believed to be chasing him. "We just want to sell Byram because he
wants to leave"
Liverpool have scouted Byram on several occasions while West Ham are
considering a £5m bid to sign him this month. Everton boss Roberto Martinez
reportedly wants Byram to offer competition for Seamus Coleman while Norwich
hope they can do a swap deal involving striker Kyle Lafferty. And Leeds
owner Cellino admits he's rather lose Byram now and get some money rather
than wait till the summer and be relying on a compensation tribunal. "We
just want to sell Byram because he wants to leave," Cellino told the Daily
Mirror. "It is better to lose him now. It is less painful for the club."

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