New Stadium progress report
WHUFC.com
The concourse of West Ham United's new home has a familiar feel to it, with all three of the Hammers' World Cup winners adorning a giant model shirt.
In this, the summer of the 50th anniversary of England's World Cup triumph, the names of West Ham's three home-grown heroes of 1966 are now displayed in all their glory.
The imposing shirts, each four-metres wide, were installed in succession over the past 24 hours and now sit as both a permanent and striking tribute to the Club's famous three sons, Bobby Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters.
Five-time Hammer of the Year and 1980 FA Cup final hero Sir Trevor Brooking has likewise been honoured, joining the legendary Billy Bonds and newly-crowned Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet.
As has been the Club's commitment to supporters from the outset, West Ham will celebrate its heroes of yesteryear throughout the Stadium, with six such shirts already in situ around the world-class arena. Elsewhere on the concourse, Hammers fans will be greeted by a colossal set of the iconic crossed hammers, complete with the lettering TIW, a nod to the rivet hammers used in the Thames Ironworks.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chadwell Chatter - Darren Randolph
WHUFC.com
Hello everyone,
When I look back at the season I don't think it could have gone any better for me. I played a lot more football than I thought I would play and have got into the Ireland team and helped us qualify for the Euro Finals this summer. I have played league games and had a great cup run. As first seasons go it has been pretty unbelievable. There is a great feeling around the football club and it is probably one of the best changing rooms I have been part of. I know everyone talks about a great team spirit but we genuinely have that and there is no little cliques in the dressing room and everyone gets on. We have a laugh and a joke and that is down to the core players and the boys who have been there the longest – players like Nobes, Ginge, Tonks and they make it easy for everyone else who comes in. At the start of the year it is a bit weird coming into the dressing room when you have seen all the players on Match of the Day and then you are playing alongside them. You get to train with Adrian who has been on fire for the last four seasons but it is very exciting to play alongside these players. Chris Woods has worked with some great keepers and with his experience and the keepers he has worked with, I am only going to improve. The performances help and when you are playing well it builds confidence, not only for myself but the whole team as you have seen throughout the season. This will be a busy summer with the Euros and the Club are going to America for a pre-season tour.
The fans in Seattle are very enthusiastic about their sports and it will be a big thing for them having West Ham United there. They have got a nice stadium and great facilities and I am a bit gutted that I will miss the trip!
Darren
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Declan Rice - It has been a great season WHUFC.com
West Ham United's rising star Declan Rice has enjoyed a memorable campaign for the U18s and the Development Squad and was rewarded for his impressive displays when he won the Dylan Tombides Award. Rice signed his first pro contract back in December and went on to make 17 appearances for the U18 side. He also featured for the Development Squad and played in the second leg of the U21 Premier League Cup Final where he helped the team came away with a famous victory. Rice follows in the footsteps of Josh Cullen and Reece Oxford to have picked up the prestigious award and hopes he can continue to show his best form for the Hammers. Rice said: "I am delighted and very honoured to have won the award. I didn't get to meet Dylan but I have heard he was a lovely lad and he was an excellent footballer. "All the time people are talking about him and it was lovely to see his brother Taylor score in Mark Noble's Testimonial. "I have got my head down this season and all the hard work has paid off. I signed my first pro contract and it has been a great season for me. "I just need to keep working hard and see what happens in the future."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph helps Ireland to warm-up draw
WHUFC.com
West Ham stopper Darren Randolph played 90 minutes for the Republic of Ireland on Friday night as they drew a Euro 2016 warm-up match against the Netherlands 1-1.
Martin O'Neill's side grabbed the opening goal courtesy of a Shane Long strike in the 30th minute before former Newcastle United striker Luuk de Jong equalised in the final ten minutes.
Southampton forward Long put away a left-footed strike in the first period against a Dutch side containing the likes of Premier League duo Georginio Wijnaldum and Memphis Depay, but de Jong headed home with five minutes remaining to earn a share of the spoils.
Holland did not qualify for this summer's tournament in France, yet it was still a respectable result for the Republic of Ireland who play their final friendly game against Belarus on Tuesday before the tournament kicks off in June.
Randolph, who is expected to start the Euros as Ireland's number one goalkeeper, had little to do at the Aviva Stadium as the visitors had just one attempt on target; their equalising goal.
Ireland have been drawn in the toughest-looking European Championship group, and face the highly-rated Belgium and Italy after an opening fixture against Sweden.
The match on 13 June against the Scandinavians is in Paris' Stade de France, before they travel to Bordeaux to face Beligum before the Italians take on O'Neill's team in Lille.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE: Sullivan on transfers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is expecting another busy summer of transfer activity and hopes to sign a number of new players over the next few months.
Mr Sullivan is working tirelessly behind the scenes alongside Slaven Bilic to bring the best possible players to Club and has already made multi-million pound offers for some of the best talent in Europe.
West Ham have already announced the arrival of Norway international Havard Nordtveit, who will join up with his new team-mates at the start of July.
With the Club qualifying for the Europa League next season, the Board are determined to help Bilic possess the strength in depth to cope with the prospect of additional fixtures, should the Hammers progress into the group stage.
West Ham enjoyed a memorable campaign in the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground and much of that was down to the new arrivals who arrived last summer, including Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet, Angelo Ogbonna, Manuel Lanzini and Michail Antonio.
Mr Sullivan is hopeful the Club can find the same calibre of players and says they will continue to work hard to get the best possible deals for West Ham United.
"We have done well with our signings and we hope we can sign a few more this summer who will do equally as well or better," he added.
"We know that we need a top striker which is the hardest thing to sign. We need a 20-goal-a-season striker and that will cost us £25m or £30million. That is where the bulk of the money goes.
"We also need the occasional long shot which is the cheaper player that may come good. We want to sign more players.
"There might be a few fringe players who we will let go and use that to bring in two or three more players.
"We have already signed one player for next season and there will be other signings. I would think that four, five or six players will come in this summer depending on how many go and hopefully we do just as well or even better next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham linked with Cameroon international KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are one of a number of clubs said to have taken a look at Cameroon international Henri Bedimo. The left-sided full back, who featured for Lyon in Ligue 1 last season is available on a free transfer this summer. And the Hammers are just one of several clubs who are reported to have investigated the possibility of signing the 31-year-old this summer. Although West Ham, West Bromwich Albion and Premier League newcomers Middlesbrough are all said to have made tentative enquiries into the player's availability, fellow Ligue 1 side Nantes are currently considered front runners to sign Bedimo who has spent his entire professional career in France. West Ham currently boast just one dedicated left back on their books, that being former Ipswich defender Aaron Cresswell. Joey O'Brien, a right back who has also played on the left will leave the club this summer following the expiry of his contract. And whilst Angelo Ogbonna can also fill the role, Slaven Bilic will be keen to ensure he enters next season with a more adequate alternative.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
PSG favourites to sign Lacazette - but still no bid KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Paris St Germain are widely considered favourites to sign Lyon striker and West Ham target Alexandre Lacazette. The Ligue 1 champions parted company with leading goalscorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the end of the 2015/16 season and are currently seeking a replacement, with the Lyon star said to be top of their list. However it remains the case that no other club has yet come close to matching West Ham United's ?€40million bid for the 24-year-old, who has been on United's radar for several months. The Hammers, who had been keen to complete an early deal before the summer transfer window opens on 1 July baulked at Lyon's ?€50million valuation of Lacazette, whose 23 goals for Lyon last season helped his club finish second in Ligue 1 behind PSG (albeit by 31 points). And although West Ham's bid remains on the table, Lyon - in seeking to maximise their windfall for parting with Lacazette - are unlikely to accept any offer until all other interested parties have ruled themselves out of the reckoning.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers "excellent" midfielder deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H
ClaretandHugh has learned that West Ham did an extraordinary piece of business in convncing midfielder Havard Nordtveit to join the club on wages of around £35k a week. The former Borussia Moenchengladbach man joins the club on July 1 with the Hammers reportedly beating off off competition from several top European outfits to land their man. Nordtveit, 25, signs on a five-year deal and returns to London six years after leaving Arsenal to join Monchengladbach. However, to have picked him up on such "sensible" wages is a coup for the Hammers who did a great job in selling the club to the player. And it's another indication of the club to ensure that they get true value for money with a source saying: "He's a genuine utility player and to have picked him up on the sort of wages we are talking about was excellent business. "He can play as a defensive midfielder which is his strongest position but is also capable of slotting in to the defence at right back or central defence."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons give £12.5k to the Tories
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 27, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H
West Ham have decided to swim in some murky political waters. It emerged this morning that for reasons of their own they have donated£12,500 to the Tory Party which frankly seems bizarre at best and totally out of order at worst. The explanation they have given via a spoksesman is that as a private compay they "make donations to whatever causes they see fit."
Whether or not many fans would agree that this is a worthy cause can be judged by this cut http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/inside-tory-black-white-ball-7335521
Ok, in the great scheme of things £12.5k is nether her of there and let's remember that Karren Brady is a Tory peer, David Gold is a regular donator to the party whilst David Sullivan once described himself as a moderate Conservative Whatever one's politics, and I readily admit I don't share theirs, it's a strange and odd decision. It should be added – for balance – that the club supports many other charities but gifts to political parties? That will attract a lot of criticsm at a time when they are auctioning club memorobilia off to support the Hammers academy. Frankly, it wouldn't matter to me which party was the beneficiary of a £12.5k gift from a football club. I would consider it ill advised, unecesary and wrong because it is divisive.
Not sure that our manager – an avowed Socialist – would be very impressed either!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hells Bell arrives at the Olympic Stadium Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2016 in News, Whispers C and H
A massive stage prop called Hells Bell has arrived at the Olympic Stadium ahead of its transformation into a music concert arena in just eight days time. As the WestHamification of the former Olympic Stadium continues a series of events will be staged there before the Hammers move in on the 1st August. Saturday 4th June sees the first ever music concert to be staged at the venue. Rock fans have paid between £65 and £95 each to watch the 'Rock or Bust' concert, part of AC/DC's European tour. Later in the summer, 14,000 runners take part in the Great Newham London Run on Sunday 17th July. All runners in the will have their very own Olympic moment as they finish in the Stadium over the running track finishing line. The London Anniversary Games will be hosted on the weekend beginning Friday 22nd July. The Stadium will play host to the IAAF Diamond League Athletics meet on 22-23 July, the IPC Grand Prix Final will also be incorporated into Saturday's programme. World record holder Bolt will grace the track at the London Anniversary Games, along with many of the world's best athletes and Paralympic stars.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham will sign "£25million or £30m striker" as part of a summer of spending, says David Sullivan
08:02, 28 MAY 2016 UPDATED 08:02, 28 MAY 2016
BY AARON FLANAGAN
The Hammers have set out a clear plan for the close season as they hope to build on the success of last year's transfer window
The Mirror
West Ham are preparing to splash the cash on a new striker this summer. Co-owner David Sullivan has confirmed the Hammers' intention to buy a £25million-£30million striker in the coming months to lead the team into the Olympic Stadium. Marseille hotshot Michy Batshuayi is one of the names touted, while Lyon are holding firm over Alexandre Lacazette. But some shock names have also been thrown into the hat, with ambitious attempts to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Jamie Vardy in the pipeline. West Ham's dealings in the transfer business, which included the arrivals of Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini and Michail Antonio, saw them in the mi x for a Champions League place this season. And Sullivan wants to build on that success in front of 60,000 fans at the Olympic Stadium. He told West Ham's official website: "We have done well with our signings and we hope we can sign a few more this summer who will do equally as well or better. "We know that we need a top striker which is the hardest thing to sign. We need a 20-goal-a-season striker and that will cost us £25m or £30million. That is where the bulk of the money goes. "We also need the occasional long shot which is the cheaper player that may come good. We want to sign more players. "There might be a few fringe players who we will let go and use that to bring in two or three more players. "We have already signed one player for next season and there will be other signings. I would think that four, five or six players will come in this summer depending on how many go and hopefully we do just as well or even better next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons take edge over Spurs on striker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 28, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham have moved in front of Spurs as the battle for Michy Batshuayi rumbles on towards the opening of the tranfer window. The Belgian international striker – having made it c.ear he is leaning towards a Premier League move – is concerned about penning a long term White Hart Lane deal. He believes he's likely to be used as a back up to Harry Kane and see West Ham nd possibly interested Liverpool as better options.
Marseilles are believed to want a 40 million euros fee and that saw the Irons cool on the player but news that they may have a real chance – given the Kane situation – is re-igniting interest. So concerned is Batshuyi at the prospect of a possible move that some reports claim that to even consider a Spurs move he would want contract clauses allowng him to leave for a set fee if guarantees over playing time are not met. As a result the Irons – with the Olympic Stadium an inducement are in a position to tempt him with the prospect of regular first team football – and are likely to set up new talks once the Euro Finals conclude.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
POLITICAL 'DONATION' ROW ENGULFS HAMMERS
By Iain Dale 27 May 2016 at 09:14
WTID
A furious row has broken out over the fact that the Conservative Party has registered a donation of £12,500 from West Ham United with the Electoral Commission. The club paid the sum for a table of ten at the party's Black & White Ball fundraiser which took place at the Hurlingham Club in South West London earlier in the year. Karren Brady hosted the club's sponsor Betway at the event.
The club's defence is that it is a private company and it can do what it likes. Local Labour MPs Mike Gapes and Jim Fitzpatrick are naturally less than gruntled. However, they fail to mention the Directors' Box season tickets which were made available to more than one Labour Minister during their time in government. I suspect the value of those would far exceed £12,500.
In the wider scheme of things it's a trifling sum, but from a PR point of view it certainly counts as an own goal. To my mind if any high profile company is going to make a political donation (and you could question whether this is a donation in the normal sense of the word, seeing as it was for event tickets) it is probably best to split it between several parties, given that its customers will be voters of all persuasions.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 28
Friday, May 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th May 2016
Late goal downs Valencia's Ecuador
WHUFC.com
Enner Valencia's Ecuador were beaten 1-0 by the USA in a Copa America warm-up match on Wednesday night. The South Americans faced the tournament's hosts in Texas but a last minute strike by Darlington Nagbe of the Portland Timbers saw the States grab the victory. Hammers striker Valencia played 90 minutes in the final game before the competition kicks-off next month for the Yellows, who will go up against Brazil, Haiti and Peru in Group B of the tournament which is the first to be held outside South America. Despite the defeat, Valencia remains confident his side can progress from the group stages. He said: "I had a short time with my family after the season with West Ham finished and then we started preparing for the Copa America. "We are in a group with a massive team in Brazil, but we have a very good chance to get through to the next stage because Ecuador is doing very well in qualification for the 2018 World Cup. "We also have Peru and Haiti in our group and we hope to have a very good Copa America. It will be played in the United States, too, where I scored against England, so I am looking forward to it very much!"
Ecuador kick-off their campaign against five-time World Cup winners Brazil in California on 4 June, before heading to Arizona to take on Peru four days later. Their final group stage game against Haiti is in New Jersey on 12 June. They are currently joint-top of the South American qualification standings, with only Uruguay keeping apace at the summit with 13 points.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Player Interview - Frank McAvennie
WHUFC.com
Hammers legend Frank McAvennie believes his former Club can achieve even bigger things under Slaven Bilic when they move into the new Stadium and sees no reason why they cannot challenge for major silverware. McAvennie was thrilled to be back in east London for the final ever game at the Boleyn Ground as he saw West Ham record a famous victory over Manchester United.
The 56-year-old has nothing but praise for the job Bilic has done following his move back to the Club last summer and feels he has assembled one of the best squads in recent years. With the Club moving into a new 60,000 Stadium, McAvennie is convinced the the Hammers will only grow stronger and can mount a serious challenge for a Champions League place. McAvennie said: "I said as soon as Slaven got the job that he would be fantastic. "The first signing he made was Julian Dicks and they have been brilliant together. He is such a legend down here and used to be my room-mate. "The fans are onside straight away and they both look like they are enjoying it. It is the same as any job - when you are enjoying it you smile and it makes you a better manager and a player. There is a good atmosphere down here now. "The supporters deserve a good team and they deserve a team who are fighting for Europe. "It can only get better from now on when they move into the new Stadium. "Slaven has got his eye on a few players. He has brought some great players in and West Ham deserve to be challenging for a Champions League place."
McAvennie will never forget his memorable spell at the Boleyn Ground and became a fans favourite after being part of the one of the greatest ever strike forces at West Ham United. The former Scottish international enjoyed a formidable partnership with Tony Cottee where he scored 60 goals in just 190 appearances and helped the Hammers secure their highest ever finish in the top flight when they finished third back in 1986. McAvennie is still treated like a hero every time he makes a return to the Club and says he will always have a special relationship with the West Ham United fans. McAvennie added: "I am always amazed how well the fans treat me. I was born and bred in Glasgow but the fans down here are incredible. I feel so welcome here and feel at home. "It gives me pride when I look back at my time here and we enjoyed our football under John Lyall. "I remember when I played with Tony, it was not when we were going to score but what type of goal we were going to score and that rubbed off onto the supporters. "It a shame that John Lyall was not able to see the end of the Boleyn Ground but I am sure he is looking down smiling."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New Stadium progress report
WHUFC.com
The concourse of West Ham United's new home has a familiar feel to it, with all three of the Hammers' World Cup winners adorning a giant model shirt.
In this, the summer of the 50th anniversary of England's World Cup triumph, the names of West Ham's three home-grown heroes of 1966 are now displayed in all their glory.
The imposing shirts, each four-metres wide, were installed in succession over the past 24 hours and now sit as both a permanent and striking reminder of the Club's famous three sons, Bobby Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters.
Five-time Hammer of the Year and 1980 FA Cup final hero Sir Trevor Brooking has likewise been honoured, joining the legendary Billy Bonds and newly-crowned Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet.
As has been the Club's commitment to supporters from the outset, West Ham will celebrate its heroes of yesteryear throughout the Stadium, with six such shirts already in situ around the world-class arena.
Elsewhere on the concourse, Hammers fans will be greeted by a colossal set of the iconic crossed hammers, complete with the lettering TIW, a nod to the rivet hammers used in the Thames Ironworks.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sylvestre pens new Hammers deal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Swiss midfielder Noha Sylvestre has signed a professional deal with the Club. The 18-year-old was a regular for the Hammers' U18s side last season, making 17 appearances and scoring once, while he also featured on a handful of occasions for the Development Squad. Thrilled to put pen to paper on a one-year deal, Sylvestre said: "It's like a dream for me. It's a dream for everyone who plays football to get a professional contract but the hardest thing now is to keep going and pushing and working hard. "I've enjoyed my time here so far very much because as soon as I joined, I felt really comfortable with my teammates and everyone at the Club and it's a big family for me. That's why my football has been good as well. "My target next season is to play every game for the U21s and get my place in that team, and then you never know. Why not go with the first team a couple of times and train with them if I can? I want to do as well as possible."
Sylvestre, who describes himself as an "aggressive number four" who "likes to make a challenge" is the son of former Swiss international Patrick, who hopes his career can inspire his son to a successful time at West Ham. "I'm delighted for Noha to sign his first contract. West Ham is an incredible Club. With the last year in this stadium, and with the people here, it's a great story and with the next year in the new stadium, it's good. "I hope for Noha [to follow in my footsteps] but there is a lot of hard work to do. To play in England is a dream. Now he has to work hard and maybe one day it is possible [for him to play for Switzerland]."
With the Club moving to their new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park ahead of next season, Sylvestre admitted it is an exciting time to be involved with the Hammers. "It's going to be a massive thing," he continued. "I've always come here to watch the games and seeing the Club develop like this really means something for me. "I've only been here three years, but I'm really looking forward to it all."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic linked with 'the Turkish Ozil'
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are said to be considering making an offer for Besiktas star Oguzhan Ozyakup. A team mate of Slaven Bilic's top transfer target Gokhan Tore, 'Ozzy' - as he is popularly known - is a Dutch-born midfielder who appeared for both the Netherlands and Turkey at youth level before deciding to feature for the latter at full senior level. The 23-year-old started life at AZ Alkmaar's Academy before joining Arsenal's youth set-up in 2008 - where he remained for four years, making just two first team appearances, before joining Besiktas for whom he has already featured on 110 occasions. Although Ozyakup was already at Besiktas before Hammers boss Bilic became general manager in 2013, he became a firm favourite of the Croatian manager's. And only last year, Bilic hailed the midfielder as Turkey's best player - likening him to Arsenal's Mesuit Ozil.
"Oguzhan Ozyakup is, for me, Turkey's most talented footballer," he said during an interview last October. "The intelligence and quality in the pass really needs to be appreciated. "I liken him to a snake, he moves like a snake, he rules out the competition. The more muscle means you are less limber. See Mesut Ozil, physically he and Oguzhan are exactly the same."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noha signs one-year deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Yet another young Hammer has put pen to paper on their first professional contract. 18-year-old Noha Sylvestre, a regular in the Under 18s last season has signed a 12-month contract with the Hammers. And the young midfielder hopes to become a regular with Terry Westley's Development Squad next season, after experiencing a handful of games at the higher level last term. "My target next season is to play every game for the U21s and get my place in that team," he told West Ham's website. "I want to do as well as possible. "I've enjoyed my time here so far very much because as soon as I joined, I felt really comfortable with my team mates and everyone at the club. It's a big family for me - and that's why my football has been good as well." Basel-born Sylveste - who joined West Ham from Concordia Basel as a 16-year-old and couldn't speak a word of English when he first arrived in London - made 17 appearances for the Under 18s last season, scoring just once.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Michy Batshuayi "attracted" to Premier League switch as Tottenham send scout to watch West Ham target
21:44, 26 MAY 2016 UPDATED 21:44, 26 MAY 2016
BY ED MALYON , ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Batshuayi is expected to move this summer and Liverpool and West Ham also interested in the £30million-rated centre-forward
The Mirror
Tottenham and West Ham target Michy Batshuayi admits he is "attracted" to the Premier League. But Marseille's Belgian striker, 22, won't decide on his future until after the Euros. Batshuayi hit 27 goals for club and country this season to attract interest from Spurs, the Hammers and Italian duo Juventus and Roma. He said: "Everybody likes the Premier League. It has a lot of spectacle, a lot of goals and many good players.
"It is natural that every good player is attracted by that league. "(But) I don't think about that (a transfer). I prefer to concentrate 100 per cent on the Euros. Then we will see what happens."
Marseille's caretaker boss Franck Passi has already confirmed Batshuayi will be allowed to leave the Ligue 1 club this summer. Tottenham's head of recruitment Paul Mitchell watched Marseille's Michy Batshuayi in the French Cup final last weekend but faces a struggle to convince the Belgium striker to sign on the dotted line. Batshuayi is expected to move this summer with Liverpool also interested in the £30million-rated centre-forward. The 22-year-old is concerned about penning a long-term deal at White Hart Lane when he is likely to be backup to homegrown star Harry Kane. The young Englishman has established himself as one of the Premier League's best after sustaining the remarkable form of his breakout 2014/15 campaign. Batshuayi prefers a move to Tottenham over other Premier League options, with Mauricio Pochettino's side playing in the Champions League. But sources in France have told Mirror Sport that he may seek contract clauses that would allow him to leave for a set fee if guarantees over playing time are not met.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gokhan Tore: super sharp shooter
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Gokhan Tore is close to sealing a move to West Ham United, despite Besiktas holding out for an improved transfer fee. So we asked one of the KUMB Forum's Turkish members to give us the lowdown on the highly-rated, 24-year-old winger who Slaven Bilic views as integral to future success. "Tore is excellent on the wing," said Turk123. "He's fantastic with the ball at his feet, possesses great pace, great vision and above average shooting. "He had a spell with Chelsea when he was a youth player so adapting to Premier League is unlikely to be a problem. However he's crazy. A pure, crazy guy. "Turkey's national team will be missing Leverkusen's Omer Toprak this summer because he refused to play alongside Tore. That's because a friend of Tore's put a gun to his head a couple of years ago. "He will also miss the first two games of Turkey's Euro 2016 campaign because he was sent off recently."
Expanding upon the 2013 firearms incident, Toprak's club and international colleague Hakan Calhanoglu revealed how they found Tore and a friend in their hotel room following an international fixture. The situation arose after Tore became incensed after learning his ex-girlfriend was now in a relationship with Calhanoglu. "Gokhan's friend walked over to Omer, pulled out a gun from his jacket and told him he would be shot if he didn't lay flat on the floor," he told German TV. "I was hit and then I was lying in a corner. He then came up to me and said: 'Don't move or I will shoot you'. I was curled up in the corner of the room, I couldn't move, I was scared for my life."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Besiktas reject Tore bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's £12million bid for Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore has been rejected by his current club. And the Hammers have been told to come back with an improved offer if they intend to land one of Slaven Bilic's key summer targets. Although KUMB understands Tore has privately expressed a desire to move to England, Besiktas are unwilling to do business unless West Ham raise their offer by £5million. Besiktas spokesman Rebecca Wood said: "Gokhan Tore is an important part of our team. We will participate in the Champions League next season and are in favour of keeping Tore. "For us to consider selling, we would look for a fee of around £17million." Tore moved to Turkey in 2013 when he spent a season on loan at Besiktas, before making the switch from Russian side Rubin Kazan permanent. The Super Lig side paid in the region of €4.5million for his services.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with second Lyon star
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are said to have expressed an interest in signing Lyon winger Rachid Ghezzal, according to reports emanating from France. Although Besiktas forward Gokhan Tore remains Slaven Bilic's first choice, the Hammers are reported to have also taken a look at Ghezzal, a French-born, Algerian international. Speaking recently about Ghezzal's situation, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas admitted that his immediate future remained uncertain with the player having just 12 months left on his current contract - which he has thus far refused to renew.
"We have real affection for him," said Aulas. "He's a boy who for years did not have a chance. He's shown six months of high quality; he's found the urge. "He has one year on his contract. Either he re-signs with Lyon or we will sell. We'll see. We have made a valid proposal and we'll do everything we can to keep him."
The 24-year-old - who had only been a regular fixture in Lyon's first team since the beginning of 2016 - is also reported to be on the radar of Sunderland and former Hammers boss Sam Allardyce.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham and West Ham target Michy Batshuayi says he will move clubs after Euro 2016
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 26/05/16 9:27am
SSN
Marseille striker Michy Batshuayi says he is attracted by a move to the Premier League but he will not change clubs until after Euro 2016. The Belgium international, currently part of his country's preparations for the tournament next month, is of interest to Tottenham and West Ham, as well as other top clubs in Europe. After scoring 24 goals in Ligue 1 last season, he has confirmed he is leaving the French club, who must sell him due to financial difficulties. But the 22-year-old insists he is concentrating on performing for Belgium first. "I don't think about that, I prefer to concentrate 100 per cent on the Euros, then we will see what happens," Batshuayi told Sky Sports News HQ. "Everybody likes the Premier League. It has a lot of spectacle, a lot of goals and many good players. It is natural that every good player is attracted by that league." Belgium play Switzerland in Geneva on Saturday as part of their Euro 2016 preparations, where they will compete in Group E alongside Italy, Republic of Ireland and Sweden.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers "excellent" midfielder deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
ClaretandHugh has learned that West Ham did an extraordinary piece of business in convncing midfielder Havard Nordtveit to join the club on wages of around £35k a week. The former Borussia Moenchengladbach man joins the club on July 1 with the Hammers reportedly beating off off competition from several top European outfits to land their man. Nordtveit, 25, signs on a five-year deal and returns to London six years after leaving Arsenal to join Monchengladbach. However, to have picked him up on such "sensible" wages is a coup for the Hammers who did a great job in selling the club to the player. And it's another indication of the club to ensure that they get true value for money with a source saying: "He's a genuine utility player and to have picked him up on the sort of wages we are talking about was excellent business. "He can play as a defensive midfielder which is his strongest position but is also capable of slotting in to the defence at right back or central defence."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with Inter Milan centre back
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham are said weighing up a move for Inter Milan centre back Jeison Murillo in the summer, according to Italian broadcaster Sport Mediaset.
The report claims the 23-year-old is wanted by Leicester City, Stoke City, Everton in addition to the Hammers and was previously a target for Manchester United. It has been claimed that Murillo, whose present contract with Inter Milan runs until 2020, could fetch around £15m, meaning the Italian club are open to letting him go. He has 16 caps and a goal for Colombia to his name and is expected to represent his nation in the Copa America next month. One major concern is Murillo's disciplinary record after he was sent off four times last season. Corriere dello Sport claim the 23-year-old centre-back has turned down approaches from Stoke City, West Ham and Everton in the hope that he can attract a "bigger club" A source close to player allegedly told the Italian press "Murillo is a hot name on Inter's transfer list and the club has already fielded inquiries from West Ham, Stoke City and Everton. But Murillo will hardly choose to go to a lower level club than Inter. He is prepared to wait for a big proposal."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Season ticket holders put pressure on Umbro
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham season ticket holders are applying pressure to Hammers kit partner Umbro to release a high definition version of the advert they used in the last ever West Ham programme at the Boleyn Ground. The advert is claimed to contain the name of each and every Irons season ticket holder at the Boleyn Ground in the last season, thought to be in excess of twenty-six thousand supporters. Each name has been printed in very, very small typeface incorporated secretly in the advert. A social media campaign on twitter has been asking Umbro UK to release the advert in a version that supporters can read their own names, this is turn has led to an online petition to persuade the kit manufacturer to publish a high definition version. The petition reads "Please will you produce and share a large high resolution copy of your excellent advert in the West Ham United V Manchester United programme. It would be great for season ticket holders to be able to find their names as it was a thoughtful and excellent idea and would be sad to go to waste.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Batsuhayi talks on his future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News
C and H
Michy Batsuhayi has revealed that he may be leaning towards a Premier League move this summer. The striker though is refusing to give any hint of where he may finally end up as West Ham, Spurs and various other PL clubs watch the Belgian striker. The player is now with his national squad ahead of the Euro 2016 Finals in France and inerviewed by Sky Sports made it clear the Premier League interested him. He said: "Yes I like the Premier League. It is exciting with lots of goals and excitement." But he added however: "But I don't think about it now – I am focused 100 per cent on the tournament an I'll think about that afterwards."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
TV cash hike hits Hammers transfer talks
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham's hopes of landing top players this summer are being handicapped by the massive influx of TV money next year. The club has admitted through Jack Sullivan's twitter account that they are struggling to find value for money in the market place. With, for example, around £100 million available to the bottom placed club next season the financial inducements to players to ply their trade in the Premier League are huge for players globally. And ClaretandHugh has been told that already demands on transfer fees and wages are on a "big inflationary upward spiral." A top insider told us: "The new TV money aailable is great in itself but I would estimate that t has already put around 10 – 15 per cent on prices for players but we have a list of around 25 and we will be sorting things as the summer progresses. "The attitude of selling clubs is understandable – it may be a seller's market but we won't be held to ransom."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham could play Europa in Athletics mode
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Claret and Hugh understands that West Ham have an emergency contingency plan to play the first leg of their Europa League third qualifying round in Athletics mode at the former Olympic Stadium if they are forced to do so. The first leg of the Europa League is due to be played on Thursday 28th July but UK Athletics only finish their Olympic Stadium weekend event on Sunday 24th July. It takes seven days to convert the stadium from Athletics mode to football mode by bringing the retractable seats forward. Although many of the seats are on wheels many need to be craned in and built manually each time the stadium switches from Athletics to football use. Should West Ham be unlucky in not drawing the first leg away they will ask UEFA and their opponents to switch the legs around. In the unlikely event UEFA or their opponents refuse that request they will play the 28th July first leg tie in Athletics mode with the running track between the pitch and the crowd. The proper conversion could then take place between Friday 29th July and Thursday 4th August which would allow the Hammers to play the 7th August Juventus friendly in football mode at the Olympic Satdium.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons hand Beskitas a Tore response
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham have reacted with great cynicm to reports they will need to find £17 million to land Beskitas winger Gokhan Tore. The club is today reported as having seen a £12 million offer rejected by the Turkish club who are quoted as wanting £17 million for the player – double what it was claimed we were ready to pay when one of the regular reports surfaced a couple of months back!
A cental striker remains the club's main priority and they have made it clear on several occasions that for Tore to arrive someone is going to have to leave. We were told again today – as we were two months ago: " Our spending plan well mapped out. We need a top striker and a right back. "For us to get involved in a serious move for Tore, somebody would have to leave. Iit was claimed back in March that we would announce him as a signing at around £8.5 million in May – what happened to that? "And regular statements from Besiktas that they want this, that or the other should be taken with a pinch of salt. That's not the way business is done if talks have reached an advanced stage."
Besiktas spokesman Rebecca Wood is reported as saying today: "Gokhan Tore is an important part of our team. We will participate in the Champions League next season and are in favour of keeping Tore. For us to consider selling, we would look for a fee of around £17million."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic signs up for Euro 2016
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham manager, Slaven Bilic has signed up to the ITV commentary team for Euro 2016 Championships in France. ITV's team will be based at a studio in Paris, overlooking the Seine and the Notre Dame. A press release from ITV says their team will criss-cross the country to deliver build-up, live coverage and analysis of games from in and around the stadia in the various tournament locations. Those joining Slaven Bilic in ITV Sport team include Mark Pougatch, Lothar Matthaus, Glenn Hoddle, Ian Wrigh, Lee Dixon, Peter Crouch, Tony Pulis, Emmanuel Petit, Christian Karembeu, Louis Saha, Norman Whiteside, Eniola Aluko and Richard Dunne. Key fixtures on ITV include England's first and final group games against Russia and Slovakia, Northern Ireland v Ukraine, Russia v Wales and the Republic of Ireland's games against Belgium and Italy. ITV's group stage coverage also includes all of holders Spain's matches and a standout tie between World Champions Germany and fierce rivals Poland. ITV will have first pick of the round of 16 and semi finals, whilst joint Euro 2016 broadcaster, the BBC, has first two picks of the quarter-finals. Both ITV and BBC will show the final.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Besiktas name their price for West Ham target Gokhan Tore
Gokhan Tore is rated as £17m by Besiktas
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Besiktas have slapped a £17m price tag on West Ham target Gokhan Tore, according to reports in Turkey. Former Besiktas manager Slaven Bilic is a big admirer of the winger, having signed him from Rubin Kazan for £3m back in 2014, and now wants to bring him to east London. West Ham have held preliminary talks with Besiktas and a deal of around £12m had been mooted. However, according to Fanatik, the Istanbul club have now raised their asking price by a further £5m which has forced West Ham to stall in their pursuit of the 24-year-old. But, having already failed with bids for Alexandre Lacazette, Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie, West Ham are worried about seeing another potential deal fall through and are likely to return to Besiktas with a higher offer.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STABILITY - EVERYONE NEEDS IT, BUT DOES ANYONE WANT IT?
By Benjamin Cronin 26 May 2016 at 08:00
WTID
He's often seen as a managerial enigma. Some see him as a tactical genius, while others say he can only buy success. The self-proclaimed 'Special One', Jose Mourinho, has amassed 21 trophies in his career; the Champions League, Europa League, domestic titles and cups from Portugal, England, Italy and Spain. The soon to be Manchester United manager certainly has decent grounds for argument against anyone who contests he isn't one of the best managers in the world. You'll be pleased to know, this article won't be focussing on what Mourinho brings to Manchester United, nor the impact his employment will have on West Ham. Instead, it's to analyse a quote taken from his interview with Gentleman's Journal;
"I think the managers are the only ones that want stability. Nobody else wants stability. Agents don't want stability – stability doesn't make money. What makes money is instability. Players, they don't want stability. Players want to be in the market. They want to go to better clubs. The media don't want stability. Stability doesn't sell. Clubs – some want stability."
Take from that what you will. You can agree with it or disagree with it but one thing can't be argued, it raises some interesting points. There's no denying the fact that the notion of stability has wavered amongst football clubs in England in recent times. Whether it's financial, managerial, stability amongst players, styles or as we've recently found out, location, absurd amounts of money and desire for instant success mean things change far too often in what is now loosely referred to as 'the beautiful game'. It may seem obvious to those who pay to watch their club play every week that sticking to a plan and having the confidence to see it through could lead to success, yet the multi-million pound owners seem intent on changing things the minute it doesn't go exactly how they planned.
Leeds United is one example of a club that love a managerial shake-up. The blame may lie with their crazed owner owner, Massimo Cellino, but they have sacked a staggering six managers (assuming Steve Evans will soon be out the door) in less than two years. The stats make more interesting when looked at over a longer period though. In the last 20 years, Watford have hung 17 managers out to dry, Southampton 18 and Crystal Palace 19. When you compare that to the fact that West Ham have had 15 managers in their entire history, it begs the question; why are these managers given just a year to prove their worth?
A lack of stability is perhaps most obvious when looking at managers, but even players nowadays have an incredibly limited amount of time to impress at a new club. Angel Di Maria cost Manchester United nigh on £60m almost two years ago, yet with just one season of Premier League football under his belt, he was shipped off to PSG for a £15m loss. Liverpool shelled out £16m for Mario Balotelli and after 16 appearances, they already appear to have given up on the Italian. These are just two fairly high profile examples, but it's now seen as the done thing to send a player off on loan after less than a year of plying their trade and give someone else a shot.
Constant changes in football might be most evident amongst those who make the difference on the pitch, but it's also become a rather frequent occurrence amongst those who make the decisions in the boardroom. I'm not just talking about mega money takeovers at the likes of Manchester City, Leicester and Everton. Aston Villa (who have also recently been taken over) board members David Bernstein and Mervyn King had their feet under the desk for less than two months before deciding to pack up and leave.
So, money may be the overriding factor, but does this approach really work out? Have these clubs that change things up on a consistent basis really achieved the success that they so desperately crave? In a word, no. There may well be evidence to suggest otherwise but I just can't see it. The hope is that West Ham and our current board implement a different approach and buck the trend of modern football. A change of ground may not sit well with a lot of fans but it's certainly one that can take the club forward. The challenge will be to guard against the those who benefit most from instability, the agents.
West Ham has the potential to grow as a club and challenge the top four in the Premier League, but only if we hold on to our most valuable assets. In Slaven Bilic, we have a great tactician who knows how to man manage his players. He's someone we need to stay at the club in order to progress to where we want to be. Whilst rival clubs may become a tempting option for Bilic, they could also potentially nab some of our best players. Reece Oxford is one notable option that, according to the media, could be convinced to make a move for more money (although the claim will be to progress his career). A potential transfer of Dimitri Payet to Real Madrid may seem absurd to some of us but there will always be a seed of doubt, courtesy of the wage figures that get banded around. Manuel Lanzini is only half a season of decent performances away from being linked to here, there and everywhere and I can already predict some January transfer talk of Kouyate to Arsenal when they are still in need of a ball-winning central midfielder.
This article isn't here to prove a point, I simply want to open up the floor to opinion. Can West Han consider themselves a 'stable' football club and if we are, will we remain so? If we want success, is stability the best way to go about achieving it?
COYI!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Enner Valencia's Ecuador were beaten 1-0 by the USA in a Copa America warm-up match on Wednesday night. The South Americans faced the tournament's hosts in Texas but a last minute strike by Darlington Nagbe of the Portland Timbers saw the States grab the victory. Hammers striker Valencia played 90 minutes in the final game before the competition kicks-off next month for the Yellows, who will go up against Brazil, Haiti and Peru in Group B of the tournament which is the first to be held outside South America. Despite the defeat, Valencia remains confident his side can progress from the group stages. He said: "I had a short time with my family after the season with West Ham finished and then we started preparing for the Copa America. "We are in a group with a massive team in Brazil, but we have a very good chance to get through to the next stage because Ecuador is doing very well in qualification for the 2018 World Cup. "We also have Peru and Haiti in our group and we hope to have a very good Copa America. It will be played in the United States, too, where I scored against England, so I am looking forward to it very much!"
Ecuador kick-off their campaign against five-time World Cup winners Brazil in California on 4 June, before heading to Arizona to take on Peru four days later. Their final group stage game against Haiti is in New Jersey on 12 June. They are currently joint-top of the South American qualification standings, with only Uruguay keeping apace at the summit with 13 points.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Player Interview - Frank McAvennie
WHUFC.com
Hammers legend Frank McAvennie believes his former Club can achieve even bigger things under Slaven Bilic when they move into the new Stadium and sees no reason why they cannot challenge for major silverware. McAvennie was thrilled to be back in east London for the final ever game at the Boleyn Ground as he saw West Ham record a famous victory over Manchester United.
The 56-year-old has nothing but praise for the job Bilic has done following his move back to the Club last summer and feels he has assembled one of the best squads in recent years. With the Club moving into a new 60,000 Stadium, McAvennie is convinced the the Hammers will only grow stronger and can mount a serious challenge for a Champions League place. McAvennie said: "I said as soon as Slaven got the job that he would be fantastic. "The first signing he made was Julian Dicks and they have been brilliant together. He is such a legend down here and used to be my room-mate. "The fans are onside straight away and they both look like they are enjoying it. It is the same as any job - when you are enjoying it you smile and it makes you a better manager and a player. There is a good atmosphere down here now. "The supporters deserve a good team and they deserve a team who are fighting for Europe. "It can only get better from now on when they move into the new Stadium. "Slaven has got his eye on a few players. He has brought some great players in and West Ham deserve to be challenging for a Champions League place."
McAvennie will never forget his memorable spell at the Boleyn Ground and became a fans favourite after being part of the one of the greatest ever strike forces at West Ham United. The former Scottish international enjoyed a formidable partnership with Tony Cottee where he scored 60 goals in just 190 appearances and helped the Hammers secure their highest ever finish in the top flight when they finished third back in 1986. McAvennie is still treated like a hero every time he makes a return to the Club and says he will always have a special relationship with the West Ham United fans. McAvennie added: "I am always amazed how well the fans treat me. I was born and bred in Glasgow but the fans down here are incredible. I feel so welcome here and feel at home. "It gives me pride when I look back at my time here and we enjoyed our football under John Lyall. "I remember when I played with Tony, it was not when we were going to score but what type of goal we were going to score and that rubbed off onto the supporters. "It a shame that John Lyall was not able to see the end of the Boleyn Ground but I am sure he is looking down smiling."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New Stadium progress report
WHUFC.com
The concourse of West Ham United's new home has a familiar feel to it, with all three of the Hammers' World Cup winners adorning a giant model shirt.
In this, the summer of the 50th anniversary of England's World Cup triumph, the names of West Ham's three home-grown heroes of 1966 are now displayed in all their glory.
The imposing shirts, each four-metres wide, were installed in succession over the past 24 hours and now sit as both a permanent and striking reminder of the Club's famous three sons, Bobby Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters.
Five-time Hammer of the Year and 1980 FA Cup final hero Sir Trevor Brooking has likewise been honoured, joining the legendary Billy Bonds and newly-crowned Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet.
As has been the Club's commitment to supporters from the outset, West Ham will celebrate its heroes of yesteryear throughout the Stadium, with six such shirts already in situ around the world-class arena.
Elsewhere on the concourse, Hammers fans will be greeted by a colossal set of the iconic crossed hammers, complete with the lettering TIW, a nod to the rivet hammers used in the Thames Ironworks.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sylvestre pens new Hammers deal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Swiss midfielder Noha Sylvestre has signed a professional deal with the Club. The 18-year-old was a regular for the Hammers' U18s side last season, making 17 appearances and scoring once, while he also featured on a handful of occasions for the Development Squad. Thrilled to put pen to paper on a one-year deal, Sylvestre said: "It's like a dream for me. It's a dream for everyone who plays football to get a professional contract but the hardest thing now is to keep going and pushing and working hard. "I've enjoyed my time here so far very much because as soon as I joined, I felt really comfortable with my teammates and everyone at the Club and it's a big family for me. That's why my football has been good as well. "My target next season is to play every game for the U21s and get my place in that team, and then you never know. Why not go with the first team a couple of times and train with them if I can? I want to do as well as possible."
Sylvestre, who describes himself as an "aggressive number four" who "likes to make a challenge" is the son of former Swiss international Patrick, who hopes his career can inspire his son to a successful time at West Ham. "I'm delighted for Noha to sign his first contract. West Ham is an incredible Club. With the last year in this stadium, and with the people here, it's a great story and with the next year in the new stadium, it's good. "I hope for Noha [to follow in my footsteps] but there is a lot of hard work to do. To play in England is a dream. Now he has to work hard and maybe one day it is possible [for him to play for Switzerland]."
With the Club moving to their new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park ahead of next season, Sylvestre admitted it is an exciting time to be involved with the Hammers. "It's going to be a massive thing," he continued. "I've always come here to watch the games and seeing the Club develop like this really means something for me. "I've only been here three years, but I'm really looking forward to it all."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic linked with 'the Turkish Ozil'
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are said to be considering making an offer for Besiktas star Oguzhan Ozyakup. A team mate of Slaven Bilic's top transfer target Gokhan Tore, 'Ozzy' - as he is popularly known - is a Dutch-born midfielder who appeared for both the Netherlands and Turkey at youth level before deciding to feature for the latter at full senior level. The 23-year-old started life at AZ Alkmaar's Academy before joining Arsenal's youth set-up in 2008 - where he remained for four years, making just two first team appearances, before joining Besiktas for whom he has already featured on 110 occasions. Although Ozyakup was already at Besiktas before Hammers boss Bilic became general manager in 2013, he became a firm favourite of the Croatian manager's. And only last year, Bilic hailed the midfielder as Turkey's best player - likening him to Arsenal's Mesuit Ozil.
"Oguzhan Ozyakup is, for me, Turkey's most talented footballer," he said during an interview last October. "The intelligence and quality in the pass really needs to be appreciated. "I liken him to a snake, he moves like a snake, he rules out the competition. The more muscle means you are less limber. See Mesut Ozil, physically he and Oguzhan are exactly the same."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noha signs one-year deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Yet another young Hammer has put pen to paper on their first professional contract. 18-year-old Noha Sylvestre, a regular in the Under 18s last season has signed a 12-month contract with the Hammers. And the young midfielder hopes to become a regular with Terry Westley's Development Squad next season, after experiencing a handful of games at the higher level last term. "My target next season is to play every game for the U21s and get my place in that team," he told West Ham's website. "I want to do as well as possible. "I've enjoyed my time here so far very much because as soon as I joined, I felt really comfortable with my team mates and everyone at the club. It's a big family for me - and that's why my football has been good as well." Basel-born Sylveste - who joined West Ham from Concordia Basel as a 16-year-old and couldn't speak a word of English when he first arrived in London - made 17 appearances for the Under 18s last season, scoring just once.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Michy Batshuayi "attracted" to Premier League switch as Tottenham send scout to watch West Ham target
21:44, 26 MAY 2016 UPDATED 21:44, 26 MAY 2016
BY ED MALYON , ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Batshuayi is expected to move this summer and Liverpool and West Ham also interested in the £30million-rated centre-forward
The Mirror
Tottenham and West Ham target Michy Batshuayi admits he is "attracted" to the Premier League. But Marseille's Belgian striker, 22, won't decide on his future until after the Euros. Batshuayi hit 27 goals for club and country this season to attract interest from Spurs, the Hammers and Italian duo Juventus and Roma. He said: "Everybody likes the Premier League. It has a lot of spectacle, a lot of goals and many good players.
"It is natural that every good player is attracted by that league. "(But) I don't think about that (a transfer). I prefer to concentrate 100 per cent on the Euros. Then we will see what happens."
Marseille's caretaker boss Franck Passi has already confirmed Batshuayi will be allowed to leave the Ligue 1 club this summer. Tottenham's head of recruitment Paul Mitchell watched Marseille's Michy Batshuayi in the French Cup final last weekend but faces a struggle to convince the Belgium striker to sign on the dotted line. Batshuayi is expected to move this summer with Liverpool also interested in the £30million-rated centre-forward. The 22-year-old is concerned about penning a long-term deal at White Hart Lane when he is likely to be backup to homegrown star Harry Kane. The young Englishman has established himself as one of the Premier League's best after sustaining the remarkable form of his breakout 2014/15 campaign. Batshuayi prefers a move to Tottenham over other Premier League options, with Mauricio Pochettino's side playing in the Champions League. But sources in France have told Mirror Sport that he may seek contract clauses that would allow him to leave for a set fee if guarantees over playing time are not met.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gokhan Tore: super sharp shooter
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Gokhan Tore is close to sealing a move to West Ham United, despite Besiktas holding out for an improved transfer fee. So we asked one of the KUMB Forum's Turkish members to give us the lowdown on the highly-rated, 24-year-old winger who Slaven Bilic views as integral to future success. "Tore is excellent on the wing," said Turk123. "He's fantastic with the ball at his feet, possesses great pace, great vision and above average shooting. "He had a spell with Chelsea when he was a youth player so adapting to Premier League is unlikely to be a problem. However he's crazy. A pure, crazy guy. "Turkey's national team will be missing Leverkusen's Omer Toprak this summer because he refused to play alongside Tore. That's because a friend of Tore's put a gun to his head a couple of years ago. "He will also miss the first two games of Turkey's Euro 2016 campaign because he was sent off recently."
Expanding upon the 2013 firearms incident, Toprak's club and international colleague Hakan Calhanoglu revealed how they found Tore and a friend in their hotel room following an international fixture. The situation arose after Tore became incensed after learning his ex-girlfriend was now in a relationship with Calhanoglu. "Gokhan's friend walked over to Omer, pulled out a gun from his jacket and told him he would be shot if he didn't lay flat on the floor," he told German TV. "I was hit and then I was lying in a corner. He then came up to me and said: 'Don't move or I will shoot you'. I was curled up in the corner of the room, I couldn't move, I was scared for my life."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Besiktas reject Tore bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's £12million bid for Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore has been rejected by his current club. And the Hammers have been told to come back with an improved offer if they intend to land one of Slaven Bilic's key summer targets. Although KUMB understands Tore has privately expressed a desire to move to England, Besiktas are unwilling to do business unless West Ham raise their offer by £5million. Besiktas spokesman Rebecca Wood said: "Gokhan Tore is an important part of our team. We will participate in the Champions League next season and are in favour of keeping Tore. "For us to consider selling, we would look for a fee of around £17million." Tore moved to Turkey in 2013 when he spent a season on loan at Besiktas, before making the switch from Russian side Rubin Kazan permanent. The Super Lig side paid in the region of €4.5million for his services.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with second Lyon star
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are said to have expressed an interest in signing Lyon winger Rachid Ghezzal, according to reports emanating from France. Although Besiktas forward Gokhan Tore remains Slaven Bilic's first choice, the Hammers are reported to have also taken a look at Ghezzal, a French-born, Algerian international. Speaking recently about Ghezzal's situation, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas admitted that his immediate future remained uncertain with the player having just 12 months left on his current contract - which he has thus far refused to renew.
"We have real affection for him," said Aulas. "He's a boy who for years did not have a chance. He's shown six months of high quality; he's found the urge. "He has one year on his contract. Either he re-signs with Lyon or we will sell. We'll see. We have made a valid proposal and we'll do everything we can to keep him."
The 24-year-old - who had only been a regular fixture in Lyon's first team since the beginning of 2016 - is also reported to be on the radar of Sunderland and former Hammers boss Sam Allardyce.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham and West Ham target Michy Batshuayi says he will move clubs after Euro 2016
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 26/05/16 9:27am
SSN
Marseille striker Michy Batshuayi says he is attracted by a move to the Premier League but he will not change clubs until after Euro 2016. The Belgium international, currently part of his country's preparations for the tournament next month, is of interest to Tottenham and West Ham, as well as other top clubs in Europe. After scoring 24 goals in Ligue 1 last season, he has confirmed he is leaving the French club, who must sell him due to financial difficulties. But the 22-year-old insists he is concentrating on performing for Belgium first. "I don't think about that, I prefer to concentrate 100 per cent on the Euros, then we will see what happens," Batshuayi told Sky Sports News HQ. "Everybody likes the Premier League. It has a lot of spectacle, a lot of goals and many good players. It is natural that every good player is attracted by that league." Belgium play Switzerland in Geneva on Saturday as part of their Euro 2016 preparations, where they will compete in Group E alongside Italy, Republic of Ireland and Sweden.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers "excellent" midfielder deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
ClaretandHugh has learned that West Ham did an extraordinary piece of business in convncing midfielder Havard Nordtveit to join the club on wages of around £35k a week. The former Borussia Moenchengladbach man joins the club on July 1 with the Hammers reportedly beating off off competition from several top European outfits to land their man. Nordtveit, 25, signs on a five-year deal and returns to London six years after leaving Arsenal to join Monchengladbach. However, to have picked him up on such "sensible" wages is a coup for the Hammers who did a great job in selling the club to the player. And it's another indication of the club to ensure that they get true value for money with a source saying: "He's a genuine utility player and to have picked him up on the sort of wages we are talking about was excellent business. "He can play as a defensive midfielder which is his strongest position but is also capable of slotting in to the defence at right back or central defence."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with Inter Milan centre back
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham are said weighing up a move for Inter Milan centre back Jeison Murillo in the summer, according to Italian broadcaster Sport Mediaset.
The report claims the 23-year-old is wanted by Leicester City, Stoke City, Everton in addition to the Hammers and was previously a target for Manchester United. It has been claimed that Murillo, whose present contract with Inter Milan runs until 2020, could fetch around £15m, meaning the Italian club are open to letting him go. He has 16 caps and a goal for Colombia to his name and is expected to represent his nation in the Copa America next month. One major concern is Murillo's disciplinary record after he was sent off four times last season. Corriere dello Sport claim the 23-year-old centre-back has turned down approaches from Stoke City, West Ham and Everton in the hope that he can attract a "bigger club" A source close to player allegedly told the Italian press "Murillo is a hot name on Inter's transfer list and the club has already fielded inquiries from West Ham, Stoke City and Everton. But Murillo will hardly choose to go to a lower level club than Inter. He is prepared to wait for a big proposal."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Season ticket holders put pressure on Umbro
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham season ticket holders are applying pressure to Hammers kit partner Umbro to release a high definition version of the advert they used in the last ever West Ham programme at the Boleyn Ground. The advert is claimed to contain the name of each and every Irons season ticket holder at the Boleyn Ground in the last season, thought to be in excess of twenty-six thousand supporters. Each name has been printed in very, very small typeface incorporated secretly in the advert. A social media campaign on twitter has been asking Umbro UK to release the advert in a version that supporters can read their own names, this is turn has led to an online petition to persuade the kit manufacturer to publish a high definition version. The petition reads "Please will you produce and share a large high resolution copy of your excellent advert in the West Ham United V Manchester United programme. It would be great for season ticket holders to be able to find their names as it was a thoughtful and excellent idea and would be sad to go to waste.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Batsuhayi talks on his future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News
C and H
Michy Batsuhayi has revealed that he may be leaning towards a Premier League move this summer. The striker though is refusing to give any hint of where he may finally end up as West Ham, Spurs and various other PL clubs watch the Belgian striker. The player is now with his national squad ahead of the Euro 2016 Finals in France and inerviewed by Sky Sports made it clear the Premier League interested him. He said: "Yes I like the Premier League. It is exciting with lots of goals and excitement." But he added however: "But I don't think about it now – I am focused 100 per cent on the tournament an I'll think about that afterwards."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
TV cash hike hits Hammers transfer talks
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham's hopes of landing top players this summer are being handicapped by the massive influx of TV money next year. The club has admitted through Jack Sullivan's twitter account that they are struggling to find value for money in the market place. With, for example, around £100 million available to the bottom placed club next season the financial inducements to players to ply their trade in the Premier League are huge for players globally. And ClaretandHugh has been told that already demands on transfer fees and wages are on a "big inflationary upward spiral." A top insider told us: "The new TV money aailable is great in itself but I would estimate that t has already put around 10 – 15 per cent on prices for players but we have a list of around 25 and we will be sorting things as the summer progresses. "The attitude of selling clubs is understandable – it may be a seller's market but we won't be held to ransom."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham could play Europa in Athletics mode
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Claret and Hugh understands that West Ham have an emergency contingency plan to play the first leg of their Europa League third qualifying round in Athletics mode at the former Olympic Stadium if they are forced to do so. The first leg of the Europa League is due to be played on Thursday 28th July but UK Athletics only finish their Olympic Stadium weekend event on Sunday 24th July. It takes seven days to convert the stadium from Athletics mode to football mode by bringing the retractable seats forward. Although many of the seats are on wheels many need to be craned in and built manually each time the stadium switches from Athletics to football use. Should West Ham be unlucky in not drawing the first leg away they will ask UEFA and their opponents to switch the legs around. In the unlikely event UEFA or their opponents refuse that request they will play the 28th July first leg tie in Athletics mode with the running track between the pitch and the crowd. The proper conversion could then take place between Friday 29th July and Thursday 4th August which would allow the Hammers to play the 7th August Juventus friendly in football mode at the Olympic Satdium.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons hand Beskitas a Tore response
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham have reacted with great cynicm to reports they will need to find £17 million to land Beskitas winger Gokhan Tore. The club is today reported as having seen a £12 million offer rejected by the Turkish club who are quoted as wanting £17 million for the player – double what it was claimed we were ready to pay when one of the regular reports surfaced a couple of months back!
A cental striker remains the club's main priority and they have made it clear on several occasions that for Tore to arrive someone is going to have to leave. We were told again today – as we were two months ago: " Our spending plan well mapped out. We need a top striker and a right back. "For us to get involved in a serious move for Tore, somebody would have to leave. Iit was claimed back in March that we would announce him as a signing at around £8.5 million in May – what happened to that? "And regular statements from Besiktas that they want this, that or the other should be taken with a pinch of salt. That's not the way business is done if talks have reached an advanced stage."
Besiktas spokesman Rebecca Wood is reported as saying today: "Gokhan Tore is an important part of our team. We will participate in the Champions League next season and are in favour of keeping Tore. For us to consider selling, we would look for a fee of around £17million."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic signs up for Euro 2016
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham manager, Slaven Bilic has signed up to the ITV commentary team for Euro 2016 Championships in France. ITV's team will be based at a studio in Paris, overlooking the Seine and the Notre Dame. A press release from ITV says their team will criss-cross the country to deliver build-up, live coverage and analysis of games from in and around the stadia in the various tournament locations. Those joining Slaven Bilic in ITV Sport team include Mark Pougatch, Lothar Matthaus, Glenn Hoddle, Ian Wrigh, Lee Dixon, Peter Crouch, Tony Pulis, Emmanuel Petit, Christian Karembeu, Louis Saha, Norman Whiteside, Eniola Aluko and Richard Dunne. Key fixtures on ITV include England's first and final group games against Russia and Slovakia, Northern Ireland v Ukraine, Russia v Wales and the Republic of Ireland's games against Belgium and Italy. ITV's group stage coverage also includes all of holders Spain's matches and a standout tie between World Champions Germany and fierce rivals Poland. ITV will have first pick of the round of 16 and semi finals, whilst joint Euro 2016 broadcaster, the BBC, has first two picks of the quarter-finals. Both ITV and BBC will show the final.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Besiktas name their price for West Ham target Gokhan Tore
Gokhan Tore is rated as £17m by Besiktas
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Besiktas have slapped a £17m price tag on West Ham target Gokhan Tore, according to reports in Turkey. Former Besiktas manager Slaven Bilic is a big admirer of the winger, having signed him from Rubin Kazan for £3m back in 2014, and now wants to bring him to east London. West Ham have held preliminary talks with Besiktas and a deal of around £12m had been mooted. However, according to Fanatik, the Istanbul club have now raised their asking price by a further £5m which has forced West Ham to stall in their pursuit of the 24-year-old. But, having already failed with bids for Alexandre Lacazette, Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie, West Ham are worried about seeing another potential deal fall through and are likely to return to Besiktas with a higher offer.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STABILITY - EVERYONE NEEDS IT, BUT DOES ANYONE WANT IT?
By Benjamin Cronin 26 May 2016 at 08:00
WTID
He's often seen as a managerial enigma. Some see him as a tactical genius, while others say he can only buy success. The self-proclaimed 'Special One', Jose Mourinho, has amassed 21 trophies in his career; the Champions League, Europa League, domestic titles and cups from Portugal, England, Italy and Spain. The soon to be Manchester United manager certainly has decent grounds for argument against anyone who contests he isn't one of the best managers in the world. You'll be pleased to know, this article won't be focussing on what Mourinho brings to Manchester United, nor the impact his employment will have on West Ham. Instead, it's to analyse a quote taken from his interview with Gentleman's Journal;
"I think the managers are the only ones that want stability. Nobody else wants stability. Agents don't want stability – stability doesn't make money. What makes money is instability. Players, they don't want stability. Players want to be in the market. They want to go to better clubs. The media don't want stability. Stability doesn't sell. Clubs – some want stability."
Take from that what you will. You can agree with it or disagree with it but one thing can't be argued, it raises some interesting points. There's no denying the fact that the notion of stability has wavered amongst football clubs in England in recent times. Whether it's financial, managerial, stability amongst players, styles or as we've recently found out, location, absurd amounts of money and desire for instant success mean things change far too often in what is now loosely referred to as 'the beautiful game'. It may seem obvious to those who pay to watch their club play every week that sticking to a plan and having the confidence to see it through could lead to success, yet the multi-million pound owners seem intent on changing things the minute it doesn't go exactly how they planned.
Leeds United is one example of a club that love a managerial shake-up. The blame may lie with their crazed owner owner, Massimo Cellino, but they have sacked a staggering six managers (assuming Steve Evans will soon be out the door) in less than two years. The stats make more interesting when looked at over a longer period though. In the last 20 years, Watford have hung 17 managers out to dry, Southampton 18 and Crystal Palace 19. When you compare that to the fact that West Ham have had 15 managers in their entire history, it begs the question; why are these managers given just a year to prove their worth?
A lack of stability is perhaps most obvious when looking at managers, but even players nowadays have an incredibly limited amount of time to impress at a new club. Angel Di Maria cost Manchester United nigh on £60m almost two years ago, yet with just one season of Premier League football under his belt, he was shipped off to PSG for a £15m loss. Liverpool shelled out £16m for Mario Balotelli and after 16 appearances, they already appear to have given up on the Italian. These are just two fairly high profile examples, but it's now seen as the done thing to send a player off on loan after less than a year of plying their trade and give someone else a shot.
Constant changes in football might be most evident amongst those who make the difference on the pitch, but it's also become a rather frequent occurrence amongst those who make the decisions in the boardroom. I'm not just talking about mega money takeovers at the likes of Manchester City, Leicester and Everton. Aston Villa (who have also recently been taken over) board members David Bernstein and Mervyn King had their feet under the desk for less than two months before deciding to pack up and leave.
So, money may be the overriding factor, but does this approach really work out? Have these clubs that change things up on a consistent basis really achieved the success that they so desperately crave? In a word, no. There may well be evidence to suggest otherwise but I just can't see it. The hope is that West Ham and our current board implement a different approach and buck the trend of modern football. A change of ground may not sit well with a lot of fans but it's certainly one that can take the club forward. The challenge will be to guard against the those who benefit most from instability, the agents.
West Ham has the potential to grow as a club and challenge the top four in the Premier League, but only if we hold on to our most valuable assets. In Slaven Bilic, we have a great tactician who knows how to man manage his players. He's someone we need to stay at the club in order to progress to where we want to be. Whilst rival clubs may become a tempting option for Bilic, they could also potentially nab some of our best players. Reece Oxford is one notable option that, according to the media, could be convinced to make a move for more money (although the claim will be to progress his career). A potential transfer of Dimitri Payet to Real Madrid may seem absurd to some of us but there will always be a seed of doubt, courtesy of the wage figures that get banded around. Manuel Lanzini is only half a season of decent performances away from being linked to here, there and everywhere and I can already predict some January transfer talk of Kouyate to Arsenal when they are still in need of a ball-winning central midfielder.
This article isn't here to prove a point, I simply want to open up the floor to opinion. Can West Han consider themselves a 'stable' football club and if we are, will we remain so? If we want success, is stability the best way to go about achieving it?
COYI!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, May 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th May 2016
First and Last - Reece Oxford
WHUFC.com
As West Ham United's final season at the Boleyn Ground draws to a close, we've asked our players for some memorable lasts from their careers and lives, as well as some firsts. Reece Oxford goes under the spotlight…
FIRSTS
What was the first CD you bought?
The first CD I bought was probably Drake – 'Sooner than Later'. He has had so many songs that I don't actually remember the time I bought it but it must have been a few years ago.
Tell us about the first goal you scored for West Ham United?
It was for the Under-13s. I was playing as a striker back then and I scored a scrappy goal against Charlton. I got moved about a bit that year and played up front for half the season.
Who would be the first teammate you would call up for a quiz?
If we are talking about intelligence I would have to say Joey O'Brien as he knows his stuff.
Who would be the first person you would vote off the X Factor and why?
Cheikhou Kouyate. He is not a good singer but he might actually get through because he is very funny.
LASTS
What was the last concert you went to?
I went to see Stormzy, who is a rap artist.
Who is the last teammate you would want to be stuck in a lift with?
I would have to say Elliot Lee. He would just moan and moan and would drive me crazy.
Who is the last player you would take fashion advice from?
I would not take any fashion advice from Angelo Ogbonna. I am more tight-fitted and he is more baggy-fitted!
What is the last book you read?
Rio Ferdinand's autobiography. I really enjoyed it because it was about his life in football and all his ups and downs. He used to be a striker and then moved to centre-half so I can relate to him a lot and of course we both come through the Academy at West Ham so I would love to follow in his footsteps.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini named in provisional Olympic squad
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's provisional 30-man squad for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The West Ham United attacking midfielder enjoyed an outstanding debut season in Claret and Blue and could now pull on his country's famous blue and white striped shirt in Brazil in August. Argentina coach Gerardo Martino will name his final squad of 18 players on 14 July, with Lanzini being tipped to be among them. The two-times Olympic champions will be seeking to add to the titles they won in Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008. This time around, Argentina have been drawn in Group D will tackle Portugal in Rio on 4 August, Algeria in the same location on 7 August and Honduras in Brasilia on 10 August. Should La Celeste advance, the final will be held at the legendary Estadio Maracana in Rio on 20 August.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign young forward Quina
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm the signing of outstanding young Portuguese forward Domingos Quina. The exciting former Benfica schoolboy will report to the Hammers in July, having recently been crowned a UEFA European U17 champion, with West Ham beating some of Europe's leading sides to the 16-year-old's signature. Quina, who was born in the West African nation of Guinea-Bissau before moving to Portugal as a child, will arrive on an initial two-year scholarship, subject to international clearance, and has agreed terms to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday in November. Academy Director and Head of Player Coaching and Development Terry Westley said the Club had pulled off a major coup in securing Quina's services.
"Attracting a player of Domingos's quality and potential to the Club is recognition of the stature with which the West Ham United Academy is held," Westley began. "Domingos spent a month training with us before heading to the European Championship finals and he has seen what we are all about, the way we work and the pathway and plans we put in place for our young players. "Domingos is an exciting young player and he has seen that we can help him to develop and make the most of his many talents at West Ham United. He wants to come on our journey the same as the likes of Martin Samuelsen, Reece Oxford and Reece Burke see their futures here. "Slaven Bilic personally met with Domingos during the time he spent training with us and his interest in the player and the discussion they had undoubtedly helped to persuade him that West Ham was the right place to continue his development. "This is a big signing for the Academy and for West Ham United."
Quina has long been considered one of Portuguese football's brightest prospects – an opinion confirmed by his outstanding displays at the recent European U17 Championship finals in Azerbaijan. There, the young forward featured in all six matches, scoring in the group-stage victory over Scotland before starting his country's victory over Spain in the final. Prior to that, Quina put in a virtuoso performance showcasing his attacking skills in a 7-3 victory over England U17s at the FA International Tournament in October 2015. "Domingos has just won the European U17 Championship and is some talent," Academy Manager Westley continued. "Having seen him train with us for four weeks, I cannot wait for him to arrive back and see what he can do. "For me, he has the same qualities as a Manuel Lanzini, in that he likes to come deep and receive the ball and then run with it, while he also possesses the quality to run in behind – he is both a goal-scorer and a goal-creator. "As I said, this is a potentially massive signing for West Ham United."
Quina becomes the second forward to join West Ham ahead of the 2016/17 season, following 18-year-old Toni Martinez, who has arrived from Spanish side Valencia. Meanwhile, a host of players have agreed new long-term contracts with the Club, with Jahmal Hector-Ingram, Anthony Scully, Vashon Neufville, Moses Makasi, Dan Kemp, Tunji Akinola, Joe Powell and Grady Diangana all pledging their futures to the Hammers in recent days.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble - This is a season I will never forget
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble will never forget leading his side in the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground and says it was an honour to captain the team in such a memorable campaign. Noble was handed the armband last summer and showed his leadership qualities straight away as he helped the players record famous away wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in the early part of the season. The 29-year-old produced some of the best football of his career as the Hammers continued to challenge in the top half of the table and secured a European place for the second consecutive season.
Noble, who also celebrated a memorable Testimonial was thrilled to play his part in a record breaking season for Slaven Bilic's side and hopes they will continue to challenge the big teams when they make a historic move into the new Stadium during the summer. Noble said: "There has been a lot to celebrate from last season – not just the way we played and the results we had, but we have set records with the most points, the most goals, away wins and have set a lot of records. "That is down to team spirit and I have a great bunch of players around me. To lead this team in the final season at the Boleyn Ground with the results we have enjoyed has been phenomenal. "It is definitely a season that I will never forget."
Noble feels West Ham and the rest of the Premier League will take a lot of encouragement from Leicester winning the title last season and says it will have a big impact on the rest of Europe. Noble added: "I don't think it gives hope to teams just in England, but the whole of Europe. "There are teams who would never have believed what Leicester have done, but they fully deserved it and have not done it by being lucky. "They have earned it and given everyone hope – not just West Ham, the Premier League but the whole of Europe."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bo66y to return to Barking
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans can pay tribute to the Club's greatest player at a special charity screening of Bo66y – The Movie in his home borough of Barking.
The film, which was produced by lifelong Hammer and broadcaster Matt Lorenzo, has received rave reviews and attracted a host of football's biggest names to a gala premiere at Wembley Stadium.
Now, east London-based supporters have a unique opportunity to attend a screening of Bo66y – a biopic featuring amazing archive footage and tributes from those who knew the late West Ham and England captain best – at The Broadway Theatre in Barking on 2 June at 7pm.
All proceeds from the event will go to The Moore Family Foundation.
Attending the screening will be Bobby's daughter Roberta and producer Lorenzo, whose father Peter was a close friend of the legendary centre-half.
Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Cllr Darren Rodwell, said: "Bobby was a Barking boy as well as an England and West Ham legend. This screening kick starts our celebrations of the 50th anniversary of England's World Cup win.
"That's why we have made our One Borough Community Day on the 30 July a 1966 World Cup special, because Bobby was from Barking, Sir Alf Ramsey was from Dagenham and Martin Peters lived in the borough.
"So just as Hammers fans can claim West Ham won the World Cup – Barking and Dagenham can say we helped raise the Jules Rimet Trophy too!"
Tickets for the special screening of Bo66y – The Movie cost £20.
To book your seat at this very special event now, please call 020 8507 5607.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia's Ecuador take on USA
WHUFC.com
West Ham forward Enner Valencia could feature for Ecuador tomorrow as they take on the USA in a Copa America warm-up match.
The South Americans will face the tournament's hosts in Texas in a friendly at 1am UK time in a hope to build momentum prior to the opening stages in the States.
The Yellows will go up against Brazil, Haiti and Peru in Group B of the competition which is the first to be held outside South America.
And Valencia is confident his side can progress from the group stages with the correct preparation in place.
He said: "I had a short time with my family after the season with West Ham finished and then we started preparing for the Copa America.
"We are in a group with a massive team in Brazil, but we have a very good chance to get through to the next stage because Ecuador is doing very well in qualification for the 2018 World Cup.
"We also have Peru and Haiti in our group and we hope to have a very good Copa America. It will be played in the United States, too, where I scored against England, so I am looking forward to it very much!"
Ecuador kick-off their campaign against five-time World Cup winners Brazil in California on 4 June, before heading to Arizona to take on Peru four days later. Their final group stage game against Haiti is in New Jersey on 12 June.
Valencia was on the scoresheet in his last international outing, bagging the opener in a 2-2 World Cup qualifying draw with Paraguay back in March.
His nation is currently joint-top of the South American qualification standings, with only Uruguay keeping apace at the summit with 13 points.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini, potential Olympian
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's provisional 35-man squad for this summer's Olympic Games. And whilst that's good news for the 22-year-old playmaker, it's not so positive for Hammers boss Slaven Bilic who could potentially lose the talented youngster until 20 August, when the final takes place in Rio de Janeiro. Argentina have been included in Group D of the competition alongside Hondurus, Algeria and Portugal. Group matches commence on 4 August - the same date West Ham are due to play the second leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie. The Hammers midfielder is one of two Premier League-based players to receive their first call-up, along with Everton's Ramiro Funes Mori.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Samuelsen gets the nod
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Martin Samuelsen has been called up for the full Norway squad to face Portugal in a friendly. West Ham United's exciting young attacking midfielder has been called up for the first time and could make his full debut against the Portuguese on Sunday afternoon. Although he made just two appearances for Slaven Bilic's first team - both in the qualifying stages of the Europea League last summer - the 19-year-old was a huge success on loan at League One Peterborough, for whom he featured on 20 occasions between November and April. Samuelsen is just one of several potential debutants included in Per-Mathias Høgmo's new-look squad. Hibs defender Niklas Gunnarsson is also poised to make his first start, as the likes of Veton Berisha (Greuther Fürth) and Iver Fossum (Hannover). The Norwegians also face Iceland on June 1 and Belgium on June 5. They failed to qualify for this summer's European Championships after losing a two-legged play-off against Hungary 3-1 on aggregate.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Campaigners urge West Ham to cancel RailHawks clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
One of the two venues West Ham are planning to visit in the US this summer has been boycotted by a number of major international stars already this year. Earlier this month West Ham announced they would be facing NASL outfit Carolina RailHawks at the WakeMed Soccer Park in North Carolina. However that news did not go down too well with the local LGBT community who have urged the club to cancel their trip as a result of the introduction of a controversial piece of legislation known as 'House Bill 2'. The bill, commonly referred to as HB2 states that transgender people in the state of North Carolina must use public toilets "according to the gender denoted on their birth certificate", as opposed to their current gender. And that, stated Winq Publishing Editor and long-term Hammers fan Darren Styles equates to "a vindictive piece of transphobic evil" - before he called upon the club to cancel their trip. "I'd like to think West Ham's arrival in North Carolina is hapless and circumstantial, even if it is careless," Styles wrote in a article for Wing. "It's not like there haven't been daily updates on the story on the BBC website for weeks now. "Having met the Chairmen and owners of the club, I'm as sure as I can be this is by accident rather than design. They care more for their brand than to end up as unwitting patsies for a bitter North Carolina State Governor with too much time on his hands and poison between his ears. "Sadly our attempts to make contact with the club are currently breaking no ice. The club's media department responded to our enquiry and offer of information by saying they'd come back to us "within 28 days" - which suggests an order of priorities in accord with most of football when faced with LGBT issues, but isn't OK. Or close to good enough."
According to the article in Wing, "Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Demi Lovato and the Cirque de Soleil have all cancelled major events in the State" as a result of the legislation, whilst the NBA and NCAA (basketball and athletic associations) have also refused to sanction events in the state. "For sure, this game shouldn't happen," continued Stryles, "at least until sense is restored and the law a thing of the past. In my professional capacity, as the Editor of a gay lifestyle magazine and a supporter of LGBT rights, I call for it to be postponed.
"But as a lifelong West Ham fan, this just got personal, too. I implore the club to think again, and set aside this regrettable fixture in light of events. No good can come of it, and gay fans like me will feel betrayed if you see it through."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Inter reject West Ham approach
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Inter are understood to have told West Ham that striker Mauro Icardi is not for sale. The 23-year-old Argentine international was the subject of an enquiry from the Hammers this week, according to Corriere dello Sport. However the Serie A side are reported to have told West Ham that Icardi - who scored 16 times in 32 starts for I Nerazzurri last season - is not for sale. The 5'11" goalscorer, who moved to Inter from Sampdoria three seasons ago is also understood to have informed Hammers representatives that he is not currently keen on a move to the Premier League. And that has scuppered any hopes West Ham United - who turned to Icardi after baulking at the asking price for Alexandre Lacazette and Michy Batshuayi - had of triggering a £28million release clause in his contract. Icardi, who holds an Italian passport has been named in Argentina's provisional squad for this summer's Olympics in Rio, along with West Ham's Manuel Lanzini.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool join race for £10million-rated West Ham starlet Reece Oxford
16:28, 25 MAY 2016 UPDATED 18:10, 25 MAY 2016
BY SIMON MULLOCK
The Merseysiders failed with an ambitious attempt to snatch the 17-year-old away from the Hammers last summer
The Mirror
Liverpool have joined the race to sign West Ham's teenage talent Reece Oxford. The Merseysiders failed with an ambitious attempt to snatch the 17-year-old away from the Hammers last summer before he had even made his senior debut. But they are back in the hunt after being made aware that Oxford is available for around £10million after rejecting West Ham's offer of a new contract. The Reds face stiff competition from both Manchester clubs. But Jurgen Klopp is hoping that his reputation for putting his trust in young players will persuade Oxford to opt for Anfield.
Oxford's versatility - he can play centre-back or as a defensive midfielder - is a big plus for Klopp as he looks to strengthen his Liverpool squad. The player is looking to get his future sorted before he reports for England Under-19 duty next week. Aidy Boothroyd's young Lions are embarking on a two-game trip to Mexico as they prepare for next month's junior Euros in Germany. Oxford, who became West Ham's youngest-ever player when he made his debut last July when he made his debut against FC Lusitanos in the Europa League, has two years left on his current deal.
He is widely regarded as one of the hottest young prospects in the English game and West Ham's asking price has not put off the three north-west giants.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
It looks over but Irons sweat on change of heart
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Go French Football have confirmed the reason Alexandre Lacazette had turned down a move to the Hammers because of their absence fom the Champons League. ClaretandHugh revealed several days ago this was the reason although Hammers insiders continue to hope even now there could be a late change of heart. However it nw looks a srong odds on bet that the player will be on his way to Paris St Germain whom we are told have been chasing him and holding talks through intermediaries since January. The Hammers meanwhile are playing their cards close to their chest after Slaven Bilic ordered a clampdown on leaks and one source said: " That maybe for precisely that reason or because there is little progress on the striker front. "There was a lot stacked on the Lacazette deal but all that appears to have hapened is that the price has been hiked up on behalf of Lyon. Previous target Michy Batshuayi is now off the radar with the Hammers having colled on the player who would beavailable at around 40 million euros.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus striker back on transfer list
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reports in Italy suggest Juventus striker Simone Zaza is back on West Ham's latest transfer target again this summer. He joined Massimiliano Allegri's side last summer from Sassuolo in an €18 million deal, hitting the back of the net five times in Serie A action. If true, West Ham aren't alone in showing interest to the frontman, who they've been linked with over the past twelve months, however, Premier League rivals Southampton are also mulling over a move for the 24-year-old it is claimed. After making just five starts in league competition for the Old Lady last season, the player's future is in peril and might be allowed to depart the Juventus Stadium if the right offer is made. In the January transfer window, the club's ITK Boleyn Insider wrote at the time: "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."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Black Lion hopes fans will still come to historic pub
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The Black Lion pub in Plaistow hopes fans will still make the East End pub part of their pre or post match ritual when West Ham move to the Olympic Stadium in August. The famous pub was once the regular drinking establishment of Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst. Hurst recently said "My most cherished memory was drinking at the Black Lion pub after the game. We didn't need any encouragement after a game to have a drink. Like any players in those days. "You couldn't see players today going to the Black Lion and having a drink today. Or any players these days going to the pub. The relationship between the players and the fans has changed dramatically, like everything else in football. Harry Redknapp also used to frequent the drinking hole in the old days
Harry said "After a game all of us would make our way to the Black Lion pub in Plaistow, not too far from the ground. The pub is still there but I bet not too many professional footballers use the place any more, as nice as it is.We'd have a couple of beers, music would be playing and we'd be chatting about football to journalists or anyone else who'd listen."
The Boleyn Tavern will be running a £120 per year membership scheme to transport supporters to to Olympic Stadium but the Black Lion landlord, Tom Friel won't be following suite. He told Claret and Hugh Exclusively "I have looked at all options, the feeling I got from my football fan customers is that most would like to still use the Black Lion but rather than try and run a coach service (and get them to stump up £120) the number 241 bus from opposite the Black Lion takes just 5-6 minutes to Stratford station and 10-12 minutes to the Olympic stadium, there are bus lanes 90% of the way! That will be much quicker and less expensive than the 'Boleyn' option . I hope this is of help to you and the West Ham fans that want to experience the good beer, good food and friendly atmosphere of the Black Lion , with thanks , Tom Friel of the Black Lion"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ribman moves to Stratford
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham season ticket holder Mark Gevaux, better known as the Rib Man for his succulent baby-back pork-rib meat stuffed into floury buns and topped with a lava-like splodge of his own hot sauce has moved to Stratford ahead of West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium. Nicknamed the "godfather of street food", Gevaux spent three seasons serving his famous ribs to West Ham fans from a pop Ribs2up table outside the Boleyn Tavern on the corner of Green street and Barking road. He describes his slow cooked pork as the best ribs in London and he also has a stall in Brick Lane. Speaking to Claret and Hugh Mark revealed "I have moved into Truman's brewery on fish island – its right behind the Olympic Stadium and we will be doing memberships – that's on top of me trying to get into the stadium" Ribs3The Ribman has already met with Olympic Stadium American caterers, Delaware North in the hope his famous ribs can be served inside the Stadium nest season but he is not leaving anything to chance by moving half a mile away from the former Olympic Stadium in Stratford. Details of the new Ribman & Truman membership scheme will announced soon he told us.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons scouts on the prowl
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham will be sending scouts to Euro 2016 but are unlikely to be clinchng any deals ahead of the competition in France. Despite plenty of hopeful speculation that we will be completing deals over the next two or three weeks, the Irons are struggling to get land initial targets. And de factor director of football David Sullivan is not a man who will be held to ransom on prices with value for month the key issue in all deals. We were told this morning that the European Finals would be allowed to pass and though no doubt there will be negotiations with agents, deals are very unlikely to be concluded. Our souce said: "We will obviously have scouts in place keeping an eye open at possible targets but we are relaxed about the situation. There's plenty of time."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign Chelsea midfielder
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
a-domingos-arsenal-football_3438684West Ham has confirmed the signing of Chelsea youth attacking midfielder, Domingos Quina.
The official site says the exciting former Benfica schoolboy will report to the Hammers in July, having recently been crowned a UEFA European U17 champion, with West Ham beating some of Europe's leading sides to the 16-year-old's signature.
QuinaThe 16-year-old midfielder signed after being persuaded that he had a better chance of progressing through to the first team in West Ham's set-up. Spurs, Liverpool, Manchester City and United were all said to chasing Quina, who turned down the chance to stay at Chelsea as he believed his progress would be limited.
Born in Guinea Bissau, Quina was brought up in Portugal and left Benfica for Chelsea as a 13-year-old. The skilful attacking midfielder, Quina is regarded as one of Portugal's best prospects, has starred for their Under 17s and is tipped to become a regular full international in the future. The move represents a coup for West Ham and puts the Academy back on the map as the destination for promising talent.
Quina will arrive on an initial two-year scholarship, subject to international clearance, and has agreed terms to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday in November.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: Hammers co-chairman David Gold rubbishes Michail Antonio to Middlesbrough rumours
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
West Ham chairman David Gold has told Middlesbrough to 'dream on' if they want to sign Michail Antonio this summer. Boro finished second in the Championship last season and will return to the Premier League for the first time in seven years this August. The club have now set about formulating a list of transfer targets for the upcoming summer transfer window to bolster their squad for the new season. Antonio is reportedly high on Middlesbrough's shortlist after manager Aitor Karanka sent scouts to watch him in action last month. But Gold has now poured cold water on the rumour by tweeting his surprise at Boro's belief that they can sign the 26-year-old. Gold tweeted: "Evening Standard – Newly promoted Middlesbrough have reportedly identified Michail Antonio as a key target this summer. (Dream on. dg)."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SEEKS POT OF GOLD, BUT NO RAINBOW IN NORTH CAROLINA
By Iain Dale 25 May 2016 at 08:49
WTID
Guest Post by Darren Styles
Springsteen boycotts, Obama sues, but the Premier League's West Ham United follow the money? to North Carolina anyway… Darren Styles, Winq Publishing Editor, a life-long fan, isn't impressed.
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread. So goes the adage. Another suggests all that glitters is not gold. As Premier League West Ham United? may shortly find out – having agreed to play a pre-season friendly football (soccer) match in North Carolina on 12th July.
"It's a fantastic opportunity to grow our brand in a developing market," the club coos. "There's such a strong grass roots game in North Carolina, and it's a place where – off the back of a great season – we can come and enjoy absolutely first-rate facilities and quality opponents in the Carolina RailHawks."
The speaker, in a live radio interview with a North Carolina radio station, is West Ham United's Commercial Director, Felicity Barnard. You can hear her enthusiasm for the opening of a new market, you can imagine the projections for a replica kit sales uplift, you can take for granted the glee of the new residents of the Olympic Stadium ?at their foresight of adding the word 'London' to the club badge ahead of the move to Stratford. North Carolina residents having heard of London. Probably.
As someone who first visited West Ham's just-defunct Boleyn Ground in 1973, and who has been – variously – a season-ticket holder and/or box holder since, I know exactly where Green Street, E13, is. But then I'm not the target audience in North Carolina. Or, for that matter, in North Korea. Where, Felicity failed to mention, even they haven't just imposed draconian and discriminatory anti-LGBT laws. Because, for all the world's wrestling with a problem like North Korea, it's in North Carolina that LGBT life has recently moved significantly backwards.
Oh Carolina.?
It's not gone well. As a result of what North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory has done to remove protections from, and legislate against, LGBT rights, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Demi Lovato and the Cirque de Soleil have all cancelled major events in the State, and the National Basketball Association (the NBA) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) have said they'll not sanction a single sporting contest there until the law is reversed. Apple, PayPal, Deutsche Bank and the Bank of America are boycotting too.
And now the President is coming for North Carolina. It seems passing a law that deliberately invalidates several anti-discrimination measures designed to protect gay and transgender people hasn't played well in the Oval Office. The law suit from the capital vs North Carolina is in.
"What this law does is inflict further indignity on a population that has suffered far more than its fair share," says Attorney General Loretta Lynch. "But we see you, we stand with you, and we will do everything we can to protect you. [This piece of] State legislation puts North Carolina in direct conflict with federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity, and state-sanctioned discrimination never works and never looks good in hindsight."
Oh Carolina. You should have invited Millwall, not West Ham. They are the team that sings "nobody likes us, and we don't care." A much better fit.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
As West Ham United's final season at the Boleyn Ground draws to a close, we've asked our players for some memorable lasts from their careers and lives, as well as some firsts. Reece Oxford goes under the spotlight…
FIRSTS
What was the first CD you bought?
The first CD I bought was probably Drake – 'Sooner than Later'. He has had so many songs that I don't actually remember the time I bought it but it must have been a few years ago.
Tell us about the first goal you scored for West Ham United?
It was for the Under-13s. I was playing as a striker back then and I scored a scrappy goal against Charlton. I got moved about a bit that year and played up front for half the season.
Who would be the first teammate you would call up for a quiz?
If we are talking about intelligence I would have to say Joey O'Brien as he knows his stuff.
Who would be the first person you would vote off the X Factor and why?
Cheikhou Kouyate. He is not a good singer but he might actually get through because he is very funny.
LASTS
What was the last concert you went to?
I went to see Stormzy, who is a rap artist.
Who is the last teammate you would want to be stuck in a lift with?
I would have to say Elliot Lee. He would just moan and moan and would drive me crazy.
Who is the last player you would take fashion advice from?
I would not take any fashion advice from Angelo Ogbonna. I am more tight-fitted and he is more baggy-fitted!
What is the last book you read?
Rio Ferdinand's autobiography. I really enjoyed it because it was about his life in football and all his ups and downs. He used to be a striker and then moved to centre-half so I can relate to him a lot and of course we both come through the Academy at West Ham so I would love to follow in his footsteps.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini named in provisional Olympic squad
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's provisional 30-man squad for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The West Ham United attacking midfielder enjoyed an outstanding debut season in Claret and Blue and could now pull on his country's famous blue and white striped shirt in Brazil in August. Argentina coach Gerardo Martino will name his final squad of 18 players on 14 July, with Lanzini being tipped to be among them. The two-times Olympic champions will be seeking to add to the titles they won in Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008. This time around, Argentina have been drawn in Group D will tackle Portugal in Rio on 4 August, Algeria in the same location on 7 August and Honduras in Brasilia on 10 August. Should La Celeste advance, the final will be held at the legendary Estadio Maracana in Rio on 20 August.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign young forward Quina
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm the signing of outstanding young Portuguese forward Domingos Quina. The exciting former Benfica schoolboy will report to the Hammers in July, having recently been crowned a UEFA European U17 champion, with West Ham beating some of Europe's leading sides to the 16-year-old's signature. Quina, who was born in the West African nation of Guinea-Bissau before moving to Portugal as a child, will arrive on an initial two-year scholarship, subject to international clearance, and has agreed terms to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday in November. Academy Director and Head of Player Coaching and Development Terry Westley said the Club had pulled off a major coup in securing Quina's services.
"Attracting a player of Domingos's quality and potential to the Club is recognition of the stature with which the West Ham United Academy is held," Westley began. "Domingos spent a month training with us before heading to the European Championship finals and he has seen what we are all about, the way we work and the pathway and plans we put in place for our young players. "Domingos is an exciting young player and he has seen that we can help him to develop and make the most of his many talents at West Ham United. He wants to come on our journey the same as the likes of Martin Samuelsen, Reece Oxford and Reece Burke see their futures here. "Slaven Bilic personally met with Domingos during the time he spent training with us and his interest in the player and the discussion they had undoubtedly helped to persuade him that West Ham was the right place to continue his development. "This is a big signing for the Academy and for West Ham United."
Quina has long been considered one of Portuguese football's brightest prospects – an opinion confirmed by his outstanding displays at the recent European U17 Championship finals in Azerbaijan. There, the young forward featured in all six matches, scoring in the group-stage victory over Scotland before starting his country's victory over Spain in the final. Prior to that, Quina put in a virtuoso performance showcasing his attacking skills in a 7-3 victory over England U17s at the FA International Tournament in October 2015. "Domingos has just won the European U17 Championship and is some talent," Academy Manager Westley continued. "Having seen him train with us for four weeks, I cannot wait for him to arrive back and see what he can do. "For me, he has the same qualities as a Manuel Lanzini, in that he likes to come deep and receive the ball and then run with it, while he also possesses the quality to run in behind – he is both a goal-scorer and a goal-creator. "As I said, this is a potentially massive signing for West Ham United."
Quina becomes the second forward to join West Ham ahead of the 2016/17 season, following 18-year-old Toni Martinez, who has arrived from Spanish side Valencia. Meanwhile, a host of players have agreed new long-term contracts with the Club, with Jahmal Hector-Ingram, Anthony Scully, Vashon Neufville, Moses Makasi, Dan Kemp, Tunji Akinola, Joe Powell and Grady Diangana all pledging their futures to the Hammers in recent days.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble - This is a season I will never forget
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble will never forget leading his side in the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground and says it was an honour to captain the team in such a memorable campaign. Noble was handed the armband last summer and showed his leadership qualities straight away as he helped the players record famous away wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in the early part of the season. The 29-year-old produced some of the best football of his career as the Hammers continued to challenge in the top half of the table and secured a European place for the second consecutive season.
Noble, who also celebrated a memorable Testimonial was thrilled to play his part in a record breaking season for Slaven Bilic's side and hopes they will continue to challenge the big teams when they make a historic move into the new Stadium during the summer. Noble said: "There has been a lot to celebrate from last season – not just the way we played and the results we had, but we have set records with the most points, the most goals, away wins and have set a lot of records. "That is down to team spirit and I have a great bunch of players around me. To lead this team in the final season at the Boleyn Ground with the results we have enjoyed has been phenomenal. "It is definitely a season that I will never forget."
Noble feels West Ham and the rest of the Premier League will take a lot of encouragement from Leicester winning the title last season and says it will have a big impact on the rest of Europe. Noble added: "I don't think it gives hope to teams just in England, but the whole of Europe. "There are teams who would never have believed what Leicester have done, but they fully deserved it and have not done it by being lucky. "They have earned it and given everyone hope – not just West Ham, the Premier League but the whole of Europe."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bo66y to return to Barking
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans can pay tribute to the Club's greatest player at a special charity screening of Bo66y – The Movie in his home borough of Barking.
The film, which was produced by lifelong Hammer and broadcaster Matt Lorenzo, has received rave reviews and attracted a host of football's biggest names to a gala premiere at Wembley Stadium.
Now, east London-based supporters have a unique opportunity to attend a screening of Bo66y – a biopic featuring amazing archive footage and tributes from those who knew the late West Ham and England captain best – at The Broadway Theatre in Barking on 2 June at 7pm.
All proceeds from the event will go to The Moore Family Foundation.
Attending the screening will be Bobby's daughter Roberta and producer Lorenzo, whose father Peter was a close friend of the legendary centre-half.
Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Cllr Darren Rodwell, said: "Bobby was a Barking boy as well as an England and West Ham legend. This screening kick starts our celebrations of the 50th anniversary of England's World Cup win.
"That's why we have made our One Borough Community Day on the 30 July a 1966 World Cup special, because Bobby was from Barking, Sir Alf Ramsey was from Dagenham and Martin Peters lived in the borough.
"So just as Hammers fans can claim West Ham won the World Cup – Barking and Dagenham can say we helped raise the Jules Rimet Trophy too!"
Tickets for the special screening of Bo66y – The Movie cost £20.
To book your seat at this very special event now, please call 020 8507 5607.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia's Ecuador take on USA
WHUFC.com
West Ham forward Enner Valencia could feature for Ecuador tomorrow as they take on the USA in a Copa America warm-up match.
The South Americans will face the tournament's hosts in Texas in a friendly at 1am UK time in a hope to build momentum prior to the opening stages in the States.
The Yellows will go up against Brazil, Haiti and Peru in Group B of the competition which is the first to be held outside South America.
And Valencia is confident his side can progress from the group stages with the correct preparation in place.
He said: "I had a short time with my family after the season with West Ham finished and then we started preparing for the Copa America.
"We are in a group with a massive team in Brazil, but we have a very good chance to get through to the next stage because Ecuador is doing very well in qualification for the 2018 World Cup.
"We also have Peru and Haiti in our group and we hope to have a very good Copa America. It will be played in the United States, too, where I scored against England, so I am looking forward to it very much!"
Ecuador kick-off their campaign against five-time World Cup winners Brazil in California on 4 June, before heading to Arizona to take on Peru four days later. Their final group stage game against Haiti is in New Jersey on 12 June.
Valencia was on the scoresheet in his last international outing, bagging the opener in a 2-2 World Cup qualifying draw with Paraguay back in March.
His nation is currently joint-top of the South American qualification standings, with only Uruguay keeping apace at the summit with 13 points.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini, potential Olympian
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's provisional 35-man squad for this summer's Olympic Games. And whilst that's good news for the 22-year-old playmaker, it's not so positive for Hammers boss Slaven Bilic who could potentially lose the talented youngster until 20 August, when the final takes place in Rio de Janeiro. Argentina have been included in Group D of the competition alongside Hondurus, Algeria and Portugal. Group matches commence on 4 August - the same date West Ham are due to play the second leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie. The Hammers midfielder is one of two Premier League-based players to receive their first call-up, along with Everton's Ramiro Funes Mori.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Samuelsen gets the nod
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Martin Samuelsen has been called up for the full Norway squad to face Portugal in a friendly. West Ham United's exciting young attacking midfielder has been called up for the first time and could make his full debut against the Portuguese on Sunday afternoon. Although he made just two appearances for Slaven Bilic's first team - both in the qualifying stages of the Europea League last summer - the 19-year-old was a huge success on loan at League One Peterborough, for whom he featured on 20 occasions between November and April. Samuelsen is just one of several potential debutants included in Per-Mathias Høgmo's new-look squad. Hibs defender Niklas Gunnarsson is also poised to make his first start, as the likes of Veton Berisha (Greuther Fürth) and Iver Fossum (Hannover). The Norwegians also face Iceland on June 1 and Belgium on June 5. They failed to qualify for this summer's European Championships after losing a two-legged play-off against Hungary 3-1 on aggregate.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Campaigners urge West Ham to cancel RailHawks clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
One of the two venues West Ham are planning to visit in the US this summer has been boycotted by a number of major international stars already this year. Earlier this month West Ham announced they would be facing NASL outfit Carolina RailHawks at the WakeMed Soccer Park in North Carolina. However that news did not go down too well with the local LGBT community who have urged the club to cancel their trip as a result of the introduction of a controversial piece of legislation known as 'House Bill 2'. The bill, commonly referred to as HB2 states that transgender people in the state of North Carolina must use public toilets "according to the gender denoted on their birth certificate", as opposed to their current gender. And that, stated Winq Publishing Editor and long-term Hammers fan Darren Styles equates to "a vindictive piece of transphobic evil" - before he called upon the club to cancel their trip. "I'd like to think West Ham's arrival in North Carolina is hapless and circumstantial, even if it is careless," Styles wrote in a article for Wing. "It's not like there haven't been daily updates on the story on the BBC website for weeks now. "Having met the Chairmen and owners of the club, I'm as sure as I can be this is by accident rather than design. They care more for their brand than to end up as unwitting patsies for a bitter North Carolina State Governor with too much time on his hands and poison between his ears. "Sadly our attempts to make contact with the club are currently breaking no ice. The club's media department responded to our enquiry and offer of information by saying they'd come back to us "within 28 days" - which suggests an order of priorities in accord with most of football when faced with LGBT issues, but isn't OK. Or close to good enough."
According to the article in Wing, "Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Demi Lovato and the Cirque de Soleil have all cancelled major events in the State" as a result of the legislation, whilst the NBA and NCAA (basketball and athletic associations) have also refused to sanction events in the state. "For sure, this game shouldn't happen," continued Stryles, "at least until sense is restored and the law a thing of the past. In my professional capacity, as the Editor of a gay lifestyle magazine and a supporter of LGBT rights, I call for it to be postponed.
"But as a lifelong West Ham fan, this just got personal, too. I implore the club to think again, and set aside this regrettable fixture in light of events. No good can come of it, and gay fans like me will feel betrayed if you see it through."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Inter reject West Ham approach
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Inter are understood to have told West Ham that striker Mauro Icardi is not for sale. The 23-year-old Argentine international was the subject of an enquiry from the Hammers this week, according to Corriere dello Sport. However the Serie A side are reported to have told West Ham that Icardi - who scored 16 times in 32 starts for I Nerazzurri last season - is not for sale. The 5'11" goalscorer, who moved to Inter from Sampdoria three seasons ago is also understood to have informed Hammers representatives that he is not currently keen on a move to the Premier League. And that has scuppered any hopes West Ham United - who turned to Icardi after baulking at the asking price for Alexandre Lacazette and Michy Batshuayi - had of triggering a £28million release clause in his contract. Icardi, who holds an Italian passport has been named in Argentina's provisional squad for this summer's Olympics in Rio, along with West Ham's Manuel Lanzini.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool join race for £10million-rated West Ham starlet Reece Oxford
16:28, 25 MAY 2016 UPDATED 18:10, 25 MAY 2016
BY SIMON MULLOCK
The Merseysiders failed with an ambitious attempt to snatch the 17-year-old away from the Hammers last summer
The Mirror
Liverpool have joined the race to sign West Ham's teenage talent Reece Oxford. The Merseysiders failed with an ambitious attempt to snatch the 17-year-old away from the Hammers last summer before he had even made his senior debut. But they are back in the hunt after being made aware that Oxford is available for around £10million after rejecting West Ham's offer of a new contract. The Reds face stiff competition from both Manchester clubs. But Jurgen Klopp is hoping that his reputation for putting his trust in young players will persuade Oxford to opt for Anfield.
Oxford's versatility - he can play centre-back or as a defensive midfielder - is a big plus for Klopp as he looks to strengthen his Liverpool squad. The player is looking to get his future sorted before he reports for England Under-19 duty next week. Aidy Boothroyd's young Lions are embarking on a two-game trip to Mexico as they prepare for next month's junior Euros in Germany. Oxford, who became West Ham's youngest-ever player when he made his debut last July when he made his debut against FC Lusitanos in the Europa League, has two years left on his current deal.
He is widely regarded as one of the hottest young prospects in the English game and West Ham's asking price has not put off the three north-west giants.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
It looks over but Irons sweat on change of heart
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Go French Football have confirmed the reason Alexandre Lacazette had turned down a move to the Hammers because of their absence fom the Champons League. ClaretandHugh revealed several days ago this was the reason although Hammers insiders continue to hope even now there could be a late change of heart. However it nw looks a srong odds on bet that the player will be on his way to Paris St Germain whom we are told have been chasing him and holding talks through intermediaries since January. The Hammers meanwhile are playing their cards close to their chest after Slaven Bilic ordered a clampdown on leaks and one source said: " That maybe for precisely that reason or because there is little progress on the striker front. "There was a lot stacked on the Lacazette deal but all that appears to have hapened is that the price has been hiked up on behalf of Lyon. Previous target Michy Batshuayi is now off the radar with the Hammers having colled on the player who would beavailable at around 40 million euros.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus striker back on transfer list
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reports in Italy suggest Juventus striker Simone Zaza is back on West Ham's latest transfer target again this summer. He joined Massimiliano Allegri's side last summer from Sassuolo in an €18 million deal, hitting the back of the net five times in Serie A action. If true, West Ham aren't alone in showing interest to the frontman, who they've been linked with over the past twelve months, however, Premier League rivals Southampton are also mulling over a move for the 24-year-old it is claimed. After making just five starts in league competition for the Old Lady last season, the player's future is in peril and might be allowed to depart the Juventus Stadium if the right offer is made. In the January transfer window, the club's ITK Boleyn Insider wrote at the time: "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."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Black Lion hopes fans will still come to historic pub
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The Black Lion pub in Plaistow hopes fans will still make the East End pub part of their pre or post match ritual when West Ham move to the Olympic Stadium in August. The famous pub was once the regular drinking establishment of Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst. Hurst recently said "My most cherished memory was drinking at the Black Lion pub after the game. We didn't need any encouragement after a game to have a drink. Like any players in those days. "You couldn't see players today going to the Black Lion and having a drink today. Or any players these days going to the pub. The relationship between the players and the fans has changed dramatically, like everything else in football. Harry Redknapp also used to frequent the drinking hole in the old days
Harry said "After a game all of us would make our way to the Black Lion pub in Plaistow, not too far from the ground. The pub is still there but I bet not too many professional footballers use the place any more, as nice as it is.We'd have a couple of beers, music would be playing and we'd be chatting about football to journalists or anyone else who'd listen."
The Boleyn Tavern will be running a £120 per year membership scheme to transport supporters to to Olympic Stadium but the Black Lion landlord, Tom Friel won't be following suite. He told Claret and Hugh Exclusively "I have looked at all options, the feeling I got from my football fan customers is that most would like to still use the Black Lion but rather than try and run a coach service (and get them to stump up £120) the number 241 bus from opposite the Black Lion takes just 5-6 minutes to Stratford station and 10-12 minutes to the Olympic stadium, there are bus lanes 90% of the way! That will be much quicker and less expensive than the 'Boleyn' option . I hope this is of help to you and the West Ham fans that want to experience the good beer, good food and friendly atmosphere of the Black Lion , with thanks , Tom Friel of the Black Lion"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ribman moves to Stratford
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham season ticket holder Mark Gevaux, better known as the Rib Man for his succulent baby-back pork-rib meat stuffed into floury buns and topped with a lava-like splodge of his own hot sauce has moved to Stratford ahead of West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium. Nicknamed the "godfather of street food", Gevaux spent three seasons serving his famous ribs to West Ham fans from a pop Ribs2up table outside the Boleyn Tavern on the corner of Green street and Barking road. He describes his slow cooked pork as the best ribs in London and he also has a stall in Brick Lane. Speaking to Claret and Hugh Mark revealed "I have moved into Truman's brewery on fish island – its right behind the Olympic Stadium and we will be doing memberships – that's on top of me trying to get into the stadium" Ribs3The Ribman has already met with Olympic Stadium American caterers, Delaware North in the hope his famous ribs can be served inside the Stadium nest season but he is not leaving anything to chance by moving half a mile away from the former Olympic Stadium in Stratford. Details of the new Ribman & Truman membership scheme will announced soon he told us.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons scouts on the prowl
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham will be sending scouts to Euro 2016 but are unlikely to be clinchng any deals ahead of the competition in France. Despite plenty of hopeful speculation that we will be completing deals over the next two or three weeks, the Irons are struggling to get land initial targets. And de factor director of football David Sullivan is not a man who will be held to ransom on prices with value for month the key issue in all deals. We were told this morning that the European Finals would be allowed to pass and though no doubt there will be negotiations with agents, deals are very unlikely to be concluded. Our souce said: "We will obviously have scouts in place keeping an eye open at possible targets but we are relaxed about the situation. There's plenty of time."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign Chelsea midfielder
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
a-domingos-arsenal-football_3438684West Ham has confirmed the signing of Chelsea youth attacking midfielder, Domingos Quina.
The official site says the exciting former Benfica schoolboy will report to the Hammers in July, having recently been crowned a UEFA European U17 champion, with West Ham beating some of Europe's leading sides to the 16-year-old's signature.
QuinaThe 16-year-old midfielder signed after being persuaded that he had a better chance of progressing through to the first team in West Ham's set-up. Spurs, Liverpool, Manchester City and United were all said to chasing Quina, who turned down the chance to stay at Chelsea as he believed his progress would be limited.
Born in Guinea Bissau, Quina was brought up in Portugal and left Benfica for Chelsea as a 13-year-old. The skilful attacking midfielder, Quina is regarded as one of Portugal's best prospects, has starred for their Under 17s and is tipped to become a regular full international in the future. The move represents a coup for West Ham and puts the Academy back on the map as the destination for promising talent.
Quina will arrive on an initial two-year scholarship, subject to international clearance, and has agreed terms to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday in November.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: Hammers co-chairman David Gold rubbishes Michail Antonio to Middlesbrough rumours
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
West Ham chairman David Gold has told Middlesbrough to 'dream on' if they want to sign Michail Antonio this summer. Boro finished second in the Championship last season and will return to the Premier League for the first time in seven years this August. The club have now set about formulating a list of transfer targets for the upcoming summer transfer window to bolster their squad for the new season. Antonio is reportedly high on Middlesbrough's shortlist after manager Aitor Karanka sent scouts to watch him in action last month. But Gold has now poured cold water on the rumour by tweeting his surprise at Boro's belief that they can sign the 26-year-old. Gold tweeted: "Evening Standard – Newly promoted Middlesbrough have reportedly identified Michail Antonio as a key target this summer. (Dream on. dg)."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SEEKS POT OF GOLD, BUT NO RAINBOW IN NORTH CAROLINA
By Iain Dale 25 May 2016 at 08:49
WTID
Guest Post by Darren Styles
Springsteen boycotts, Obama sues, but the Premier League's West Ham United follow the money? to North Carolina anyway… Darren Styles, Winq Publishing Editor, a life-long fan, isn't impressed.
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread. So goes the adage. Another suggests all that glitters is not gold. As Premier League West Ham United? may shortly find out – having agreed to play a pre-season friendly football (soccer) match in North Carolina on 12th July.
"It's a fantastic opportunity to grow our brand in a developing market," the club coos. "There's such a strong grass roots game in North Carolina, and it's a place where – off the back of a great season – we can come and enjoy absolutely first-rate facilities and quality opponents in the Carolina RailHawks."
The speaker, in a live radio interview with a North Carolina radio station, is West Ham United's Commercial Director, Felicity Barnard. You can hear her enthusiasm for the opening of a new market, you can imagine the projections for a replica kit sales uplift, you can take for granted the glee of the new residents of the Olympic Stadium ?at their foresight of adding the word 'London' to the club badge ahead of the move to Stratford. North Carolina residents having heard of London. Probably.
As someone who first visited West Ham's just-defunct Boleyn Ground in 1973, and who has been – variously – a season-ticket holder and/or box holder since, I know exactly where Green Street, E13, is. But then I'm not the target audience in North Carolina. Or, for that matter, in North Korea. Where, Felicity failed to mention, even they haven't just imposed draconian and discriminatory anti-LGBT laws. Because, for all the world's wrestling with a problem like North Korea, it's in North Carolina that LGBT life has recently moved significantly backwards.
Oh Carolina.?
It's not gone well. As a result of what North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory has done to remove protections from, and legislate against, LGBT rights, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Demi Lovato and the Cirque de Soleil have all cancelled major events in the State, and the National Basketball Association (the NBA) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) have said they'll not sanction a single sporting contest there until the law is reversed. Apple, PayPal, Deutsche Bank and the Bank of America are boycotting too.
And now the President is coming for North Carolina. It seems passing a law that deliberately invalidates several anti-discrimination measures designed to protect gay and transgender people hasn't played well in the Oval Office. The law suit from the capital vs North Carolina is in.
"What this law does is inflict further indignity on a population that has suffered far more than its fair share," says Attorney General Loretta Lynch. "But we see you, we stand with you, and we will do everything we can to protect you. [This piece of] State legislation puts North Carolina in direct conflict with federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity, and state-sanctioned discrimination never works and never looks good in hindsight."
Oh Carolina. You should have invited Millwall, not West Ham. They are the team that sings "nobody likes us, and we don't care." A much better fit.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, May 25
Daily WHUFC News -
Development Squad pre-season confirmed
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm the Development Squad's 2016/17 pre-season schedule. The Hammers' young professionals have six matches penned-in as they prepare for the new campaign.
All six will be played away from home, with the pre-season starting with a trip to National League South club Chelmsford City at Melbourne Stadium on the evening of Friday 15 July.
Four days later, Academy Manager and Head of Coaching and Player Development Terry Westley will take a side to London Road to face Peterborough United on Tuesday 19 July at 7.30pm. Saturday 23 July will see the reigning U21 Premier League Cup holders make the short trip to the seaside to tackle Southend United at Roots Hall in a 3pm kick-off. The Development Squad will then travel to the Netherlands for a week-long training camp hosted by partner club VVV-Venlo, which will also feature two pre-season fixtures. First up is a clash with Jong PSV on Wednesday 27 July at 7pm, before the young Hammers take on their hosts in the Herman Teeuwen Memorial Cup on Saturday 30 July at 3pm. Both Dutch fixtures will be held at Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel. Westley and his players will then return to England to complete their preparations with a trip to Cobham to take on Chelsea on Friday 5 August at 1pm. Ticket details for these fixtures will be published on whufc.com and across our social media channels as and when they are confirmed.
Development Squad – 2016/17 Pre-season Fixtures
v Chelmsford City, Melbourne Stadium, Friday 15 July, 7.45pm
v Peterborough United, London Road, Tuesday 19 July, 7.30pm
v Southend United, Roots Hall, Saturday 23 July, 3pm
v Jong PSV, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Wednesday 27 July, 7pm CEST
v VVV-Venlo, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Saturday 30 July, 3pm CEST
v Chelsea, Cobham training ground, Friday 5 August, 1pm
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio - I want to be even stronger next season
WHUFC.com
It has been an unforgettable season for Michail Antonio who made a dream move into the Premier League last summer and has turned out to be one of the star performers for West Ham United.
Antonio was forced to be patient for his chance in the first-team following his switch from Nottingham Forest but he never looked back following his breakthrough into the team against Manchester United at Old Trafford back in December. The 26-year-old went on to score nine goals and produced some memorable celebrations along the way as he played his part in helping the Hammers secure their highest ever points tally in the Premier League. Antonio was rewarded for his impressive displays when he picked up the Best Individual Performance against Tottenham when he capped a fine display with the winning goal. The talented winger says it has been a memorable campaign and hopes he will grow even stronger when the Club prepare to play at the new Stadium next season. Antonio said: "I was really honoured to pick up that award, especially as it was my first year in the Premier League. "If I am honest I was not expecting it as I thought Dimitri would have picked up this award. "But I am over the moon to have won it and hopefully I can keep moving on."
The victory over Tottenham back in March turned out to be of one of the best games at the Boleyn Ground last season and Antonio says he can still recall the instructions from first-team coach Edin Terzic that helped him score the crucial match winner. "I remember the game very well and Edin coming to me at the start of the game and telling me to make a run to the front post. "I remember pushing Chadli off me and spinning and then heading the ball into the back of the net. "I think the fans enjoyed the celebrations after the goal. The atmosphere was amazing that night and the fans kept pushing us. We managed to get the early goal and maintain it against a strong Tottenham team."
Antonio is now hoping to make an even bigger impact next season and hopes the Club can maintain their impressive form and challenge once again in the top half of the table. "There have been so many emotions for me since I joined the Club. At the start of the season I had to settle for a place on the bench, but once I got in I managed to stay in the team and have played every game. "I just want to keep my head down now and keep going for next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium wrap gets the green light!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to reveal that planning permission has been granted for a spectacular wrap solution for the Club's new Stadium.
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) Planning Decisions Committee met on Tuesday evening to rubber stamp the proposal to install the largest digital screen in Europe at the Hammers' new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The high-definition (HD) screen, which will measure 83m wide by 12m high, will be flanked by 68 12m high fabric panels similar to those used at Wembley Stadium, the Emirates Stadium and Celtic Park.
Following a lengthy and intricate process involving leading digital experts, the approved designs will set a new benchmark in world stadia, adding another marquee feature to an already iconic venue.
For West Ham matches, Hammers fans will be able to enjoy clips of their heroes past and present as they make their approach to the world-famous venue they will call home from August. So expect goals from Dimitri Payet or classic clips from Bobby Moore's heyday to enthral the Claret and Blue Army on their way in to the Stadium.
The panels will contain five West Ham United crests measuring 6.8m high and 7.5m wide, as well as other signage and branding for West Ham and the Stadium Sponsor, and will be uplit during specified hours of darkness.
To complete a stunning design that will revolutionise the exterior of the Stadium, two internally illuminated marquee signs spelling out the words 'West Ham United' in Claret and Blue will also be installed. These too will be illuminated during specified hours of darkness.
This is key to the Club's absolute commitment to ensuring the Stadium looks and feels like the unmistakable home of West Ham United.
Like the fabric panels, this screen will be similar in brightness and size to those currently in use at Wembley Stadium. And crucial to that end, the screens will be designed to respond to different brightness settings, meaning definition remains at an optimum level for day or night games in any weather condition.
The exciting new plans – which replace the previously submitted application – also include prominent, Olympic legacy-inspired Claret and Blue shards and the Club's crest and colours.
The new installation will provide immense benefit to all partners of the Stadium, enabling events throughout the year to have a highly-visible, cutting edge digital platform for content, information and promotional material, all in glorious HD.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Phil Jupitus
WHUFC.com
Television star Phill Jupitus has seen a number of magical moments at the Boleyn Ground standing on the famous North Bank and will never forget a special moment with his daughter that involved Carlos Tevez.
As the Club prepare for a historic move to the new Stadium during the summer, Jupitus looks back at his time attending the Boleyn Ground and describes what makes it one of the most unique stadiums in Europe....
Phill, this has been an emotional time for everyone connected with the Club. What are your feelings on the big move away from the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "It is strange because you think about the size of the place and the physical closeness to games.
"Obviously the sport has changed immeasurably over the last 20 years and it is certainly the passing of an era. The move had to happen."
What are your standout memories from attending the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "I used to work for a fanzine called 'Fortunes Always Hiding' and my nickname with the lads was part-time Porky as I used to wake up on a Saturday morning and decide if I want to go to the game and that is an age that has passed. "I lived in Bow and used to wake up on a Saturday and think do I want to go to the Pictures or go to the football. You could just turn up a the footie with a fiver and get in! "I miss that and standing on the old shelf on the left hand side of the North Bank. I used to stand up there by the Tea Bar and it was a great view of the goal.
"I know the away fans have been situated there so I hope they enjoy it as well! I used to really enjoy the North Bank and miss that a lot."
You have seen a number of entertaining players over the years. If you had to pick out one favourite who would it be and why?
PJ: "There was a time when I brought my daughter and Carlos Tevez was playing. I remember turning to her and saying this man is going to score a goal now! What he will do is kick the ball and it will curve in the air and into the corner of the net. "He scored the goal and she looked at me like I was a wizard! It was a one-off but the way we took to Tevez and he took to us said a lot about the Club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's £85million windfall
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United earned in excess of £85million from prize money payments during the 2015/16 season. West Ham's income of £85.765,168 was the eighth-highest figure amongst Premier League clubs. Although the Hammers received less than both Liverpool and Chelsea, despite finishing above both in the table, they earned around £1million more than sixth-placed Southampton.
West Ham's windfall consisted of £17.4million from merit money (the reward for finishing seventh in the table), £12.5million from facility fees (dependant on the number of live matches broadcast), £22million from domestic TV deals, £29.5million from overseas TV deals and finally, £4.5million from a pooled central commercial (ie sponsor) fund.
The highest earners were Arsenal, who earned £101million - that's £4million more than Manchester City (£97million) and Manchester United and £8million more than Premier League champions Leicester City, who earned the fifth-highest revenue.
In stark contrast, Aston Villa - who finished bottom of the league and were relegated to the Championship - received just shy of £67million, which Norwich (£67million) and Bournemouth (£71million) made up the bottom three.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers go Posh this summer
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Details of a second pre-season friendly have been announced for this July. A West Ham XI will travel to the ABAX stadium on Tuesday, 19 July to face League One outfit Peterborough United for the second successive year. The Posh are currently manager by former Hammer Grant McCann, who was named as the permanent successor to Graham Westley earlier this month. Slaven Bilic's current squad will be hoping to better last July's result when the two sides drew 3-3, with West Ham's goals coming from Mark Noble, Diafra Sakho and Martin Samuelsen. The match was also notable for a standing ovation given to former Hammer Jack Collison as he warmed up on the sidelines for Peterborough. Collison has since retired from the game due to his injuries. Earlier today it was confirmed that West Ham would also be visiting fellow League One side Southend United this July. The current confirmed pre-season schedule is as follows.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
19 July: Peterborough Utd (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New pre-season fixture confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
A West Ham United XI will face Southend United at Roots Hall on Saturday, 23 July. The Hammers will make the almost annual trip down the A13 to face the Shrimpers in a pre-season friendly this summer, according to the League One club. Last season DImitri Payet made his West Ham debut against the Shrimpers, netting twice and providing an assist as the Hammers ran out 3-2 winners.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reports: West Ham launch fresh Tore bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are reported to have made a fresh offer for Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore. A number of sources are this morning running with news of talks between the two parties to determine a fee for the 24-year-old, who Hammers boss Slaven Bilic rates highly from his time in Turkey. West Ham were reported to have had a €10million offer for Tore rejected last January. And just last month, Besiktas vice-president Ahmet Nur Cebi admitted that his club would be prepared to allow the German-born forward to leave the club - but not for less than €30million. "We do not intend to sell anyone at the moment," said Cebi, speaking at the time. "But if they offer €30million (circa £24million) for a player we paid €5million for, we would have to think about it."
Bilic has previously gone on record with his admiration for Tore's talent. Speaking to Socrates magazine last October, he revaled that he had tried to make the player one of his first captures when arriving at the Boleyn Ground. "Gokhan is a legend," said Bilic. "He is a top guy and a great player. Of course I would love to have him in the team [at West Ham]. I tried to sign him at the start of the season, but it was not the right time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in talks to sign Gokhan Tore, according to Sky sources
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 24/05/16 12:00pm
SSN
West Ham are in advanced talks to sign winger Gokhan Tore from Besiktas, according to Sky sources. Negotiations are ongoing for the 24-year-old, with the Turkish club believed to value their player at £12m. The Hammers are looking to bolster their squad ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium and a Europa League campaign and have already agreed a deal to bring Norway midfielder Havard Nordtveit to the club when the transfer window opens. But manager Slaven Bilic wants further reinforcements to build on his promising first season at the club, although a £31m bid for Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette and a £25m bid for Bournemouth pair Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie have failed in recent weeks. Tore, who spent two years at Chelsea as a youth player after being found by Frank Arnesen while playing for Bayer Leverkusen, signed a five-year deal at Besiktas in 2014 after a £3m move from Rubin Kazan. He has won 26 caps for Turkey and has been named in the 31-man provisional squad for Euro 2016.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers target hopes look dead in water
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Regular speculation that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a West Ham target looks dead in the water this morning with Jose Mourinho reportedly ready to take over the reins at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Paris St-Germain and United are set to hand him a one-year, £250,000-a-week contract. The Swedish superstar was seen as an ideal candidate to join the Olympic Stadium-bound Hammers but the free signing now looks a strong favourite to join the Mourinho OT regime. The pair know each other well and sources strongly tip a year's contract for the 34 year old under his former boss who also has to look at the situation involving Reece Oxford. It has been strongly reported that United were plotting a £10 million move under sacked Louis van Gaal although Hammers insiders claim he is going nowhere. However Mourinho will be looking at any proposed business on the United agenda and take a view so nothing can be ruled out at this stage.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
French striker targets valued at €90m
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Lyon president has told French newspaper Le Progres that ideally they want to keep hold of Alexandre-Lacazette but he has not categorically ruled out a sale of the 24 year old this summer. It has now been claimed that the Ligue 1 outfit have slapped on an asking price of 50million euros [£38.7m] and are not prepared to lower their valuation.
It remains to be seen if the Hammers would ever match Lyon's demands but they may have to move quickly as a number of clubs have been linked with Lacazette in recent weeks, including PSG, Spurs and Atletico Madrid.
LacazMeanwhile, Olympique de Marseille is said to value their prized striker, Michy Batshuayi at €40million (£31m) mostly due to a sell-on clause in his contract.
According to Mercato 365, Spurs sent scouts were in attendance at the Stade de France on Saturday evening as Marseille lost 4-2 to Paris Saint-Germain in the Coupe de France final. The 22-year-old has scored 24 goals and supplied 10 assists in 51 matches in all competitions this season, including 17 goals and nine assists from 36 Ligue 1 encounters.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vardy release bait clause
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Jamie Vardy is available to Champions League clubs although his personal demands are likely to remain out of West Ham's reach. The 29 year old is understood to have a £25 million release trigger in his contract and the Irons are ready to pay the fee. Any talking cannot take place until after the transfer window opens but it is well known that the club has had him on the radar but with one more bumper deal in prospect the Hammers are set to be priced out of that market. We understand that a minimum £100k a week plus first team appearance bonuses would be involved and that could rise to as high as £125k plus. Vardy has regularly pledged loyalty to the Foxes but the fact he can be prised away for a cut price fee will alert Premier League rivals. Vardy's release clause is reported as having been inserted into the contract he signed in February, and was also apparently extensively scouted by Manchester City during his 24-goal Premier League campaign.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boleyn Pub SOS
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The famous Boleyn pub, on the corner of Green Street and Barking Road is preparing for life after after the Boleyn Ground is demolished by offering a membership scheme for West Ham supporters. They are asking their football regulars to pay £120 annual membership to stop the place being closed down. The membership fee will fund private coaches to the former Olympic stadium on home match days but members will also receive a discount at the bar. The posters in the windows read like an SOS saying : "As you all know West Ham United are moving to the Olympic Stadium, Stratford for the 2016/2017 season. We want to keep the spirit of the The Boleyn Pub going, so we are offering an annual membership that will provide transport from the Boleyn to Stratford for every home game. You will also receive bar discounts on every home and away games. To find out more or to sign up for your membership call us or speak to one of our bar staff. Call us on 0208472 2182?
The Black Lion in Plaistow, another West Ham pub, is also looking at transporting fans to Stratford.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Michail Antonio is not for Sale
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
We know the silly season is now in full swing with the ludicrous suggestion linking Michail Antonio with newly promoted Middlesbrough today. The transfer gossip section of the London evening standard writes: "Even newly promoted teams will have a significant amount of bargaining power and Middlesbrough, who are set to compete in the top tier next term, have reportedly identified West Ham's Michail Antonio as a key target. The versatile midfielder, who can also play at right-back, proved to be a slow burner for Slaven Bilic's side but enjoyed a stellar second half of the season.The Hammers are not thought to be keen to sell while Boro are willing to offer up to £8 million for the 26-year-old." The suggestion that West Ham would entertain bids for Antonio is just plain daft in the first place, never mind the cheap £8m price tag and why Michail would consider leaving West Ham to join Middlesbrough. They really haven't thought this one through very well. I think we can safety put this one to bed and not worry about it too much.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers play cards close to chest on winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham were this morning reported to be in advanced talks with Beiktas flying winger Gokhan Tore. But although they have admitted to us in the past he is a potential target the club were refusing to put anything on the record when ClaretandHugh contacted them a few minutes ago That, however, is sometimes the best indicator that a deal may indeed be on the cards. Slaven Bilic has called for a clampdown on transfer leaks within the club but both the morning newspapers and Sky are claiming the deal is close. Our senior source said simply: "No comment – we are running with for 25 players." The player however is a huge Bilic favourite and the manager wanted to sign him at the stat of his Hammers reign last summer. We were indeed told a couple of weeks ago that Tore was a target alhough a striker wasthe bigger priority and that the club would only move in on the Turk sooner if they failed with bids in that area.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus match restricted to 54,000
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Demand for Juventus friendly match on Sunday 7th August continues to grow with the club are confident that they will sell out all 54,000 tickets by the end of this week. A source close to the ticket office told Claret and Hugh at lunch time "We expect a sell out most likely by the end of the week. It has been incredible sales figures" The pre season friendly against Werder Bremen on 2nd August last year managed just 9,919 supporters despite being the final season at the Boleyn Ground. When Claret and Hugh checked the ticket premium rate hotline at 12 noon there were 11 people in the queue with an average wait time of 24 minutes. The Juventus sell out will limited to 54,000 seats rather than the increased 60,000 capacity of the converted stadium. Our source told us "At present the stadium is part of the initial test stage which is set to 54,000 for safety certificate reasons, therefore it allows a preview in advance of the first 60,000 game a week later "
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with French left back
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reports in the Daily Mail suggest West Ham have made enquiries for Lille left back Djibril Sidibe. Watford, Arsenal , Everton and Lyon are also reported to have made enquiries for the 23-year-old, who can also play as a right back. Sidibe is valued at 15 million euros (£11.5m) by his club, who finished the 2015-16 season in fifth place in Ligue 1. Everton reportedly had a £10million bid for Lille left-back rejected this week while Lyon and Watford have both scouted the defender. Arsenal are said to be willing to make a move if the out-of-favour Kieran Gibbs leaves the club. Sidibé can play as a full back on the right or left, but can also be utilized in the midfield in a defensive position. He began his career at his hometown club Troyes in 2000 at the age of eight. Sidibé made his professional debut on 17 September 2010 in a French league match against Grenoble. After helping earn Troyes promotion to Ligue 1, the then 19-year-old signed for Lille in July 2012, as cover for Mathieu Debuchy. Sidibé made his debut for Lille on 25 August 2012 against Nice.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm the Development Squad's 2016/17 pre-season schedule. The Hammers' young professionals have six matches penned-in as they prepare for the new campaign.
All six will be played away from home, with the pre-season starting with a trip to National League South club Chelmsford City at Melbourne Stadium on the evening of Friday 15 July.
Four days later, Academy Manager and Head of Coaching and Player Development Terry Westley will take a side to London Road to face Peterborough United on Tuesday 19 July at 7.30pm. Saturday 23 July will see the reigning U21 Premier League Cup holders make the short trip to the seaside to tackle Southend United at Roots Hall in a 3pm kick-off. The Development Squad will then travel to the Netherlands for a week-long training camp hosted by partner club VVV-Venlo, which will also feature two pre-season fixtures. First up is a clash with Jong PSV on Wednesday 27 July at 7pm, before the young Hammers take on their hosts in the Herman Teeuwen Memorial Cup on Saturday 30 July at 3pm. Both Dutch fixtures will be held at Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel. Westley and his players will then return to England to complete their preparations with a trip to Cobham to take on Chelsea on Friday 5 August at 1pm. Ticket details for these fixtures will be published on whufc.com and across our social media channels as and when they are confirmed.
Development Squad – 2016/17 Pre-season Fixtures
v Chelmsford City, Melbourne Stadium, Friday 15 July, 7.45pm
v Peterborough United, London Road, Tuesday 19 July, 7.30pm
v Southend United, Roots Hall, Saturday 23 July, 3pm
v Jong PSV, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Wednesday 27 July, 7pm CEST
v VVV-Venlo, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Saturday 30 July, 3pm CEST
v Chelsea, Cobham training ground, Friday 5 August, 1pm
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio - I want to be even stronger next season
WHUFC.com
It has been an unforgettable season for Michail Antonio who made a dream move into the Premier League last summer and has turned out to be one of the star performers for West Ham United.
Antonio was forced to be patient for his chance in the first-team following his switch from Nottingham Forest but he never looked back following his breakthrough into the team against Manchester United at Old Trafford back in December. The 26-year-old went on to score nine goals and produced some memorable celebrations along the way as he played his part in helping the Hammers secure their highest ever points tally in the Premier League. Antonio was rewarded for his impressive displays when he picked up the Best Individual Performance against Tottenham when he capped a fine display with the winning goal. The talented winger says it has been a memorable campaign and hopes he will grow even stronger when the Club prepare to play at the new Stadium next season. Antonio said: "I was really honoured to pick up that award, especially as it was my first year in the Premier League. "If I am honest I was not expecting it as I thought Dimitri would have picked up this award. "But I am over the moon to have won it and hopefully I can keep moving on."
The victory over Tottenham back in March turned out to be of one of the best games at the Boleyn Ground last season and Antonio says he can still recall the instructions from first-team coach Edin Terzic that helped him score the crucial match winner. "I remember the game very well and Edin coming to me at the start of the game and telling me to make a run to the front post. "I remember pushing Chadli off me and spinning and then heading the ball into the back of the net. "I think the fans enjoyed the celebrations after the goal. The atmosphere was amazing that night and the fans kept pushing us. We managed to get the early goal and maintain it against a strong Tottenham team."
Antonio is now hoping to make an even bigger impact next season and hopes the Club can maintain their impressive form and challenge once again in the top half of the table. "There have been so many emotions for me since I joined the Club. At the start of the season I had to settle for a place on the bench, but once I got in I managed to stay in the team and have played every game. "I just want to keep my head down now and keep going for next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium wrap gets the green light!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to reveal that planning permission has been granted for a spectacular wrap solution for the Club's new Stadium.
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) Planning Decisions Committee met on Tuesday evening to rubber stamp the proposal to install the largest digital screen in Europe at the Hammers' new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The high-definition (HD) screen, which will measure 83m wide by 12m high, will be flanked by 68 12m high fabric panels similar to those used at Wembley Stadium, the Emirates Stadium and Celtic Park.
Following a lengthy and intricate process involving leading digital experts, the approved designs will set a new benchmark in world stadia, adding another marquee feature to an already iconic venue.
For West Ham matches, Hammers fans will be able to enjoy clips of their heroes past and present as they make their approach to the world-famous venue they will call home from August. So expect goals from Dimitri Payet or classic clips from Bobby Moore's heyday to enthral the Claret and Blue Army on their way in to the Stadium.
The panels will contain five West Ham United crests measuring 6.8m high and 7.5m wide, as well as other signage and branding for West Ham and the Stadium Sponsor, and will be uplit during specified hours of darkness.
To complete a stunning design that will revolutionise the exterior of the Stadium, two internally illuminated marquee signs spelling out the words 'West Ham United' in Claret and Blue will also be installed. These too will be illuminated during specified hours of darkness.
This is key to the Club's absolute commitment to ensuring the Stadium looks and feels like the unmistakable home of West Ham United.
Like the fabric panels, this screen will be similar in brightness and size to those currently in use at Wembley Stadium. And crucial to that end, the screens will be designed to respond to different brightness settings, meaning definition remains at an optimum level for day or night games in any weather condition.
The exciting new plans – which replace the previously submitted application – also include prominent, Olympic legacy-inspired Claret and Blue shards and the Club's crest and colours.
The new installation will provide immense benefit to all partners of the Stadium, enabling events throughout the year to have a highly-visible, cutting edge digital platform for content, information and promotional material, all in glorious HD.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Phil Jupitus
WHUFC.com
Television star Phill Jupitus has seen a number of magical moments at the Boleyn Ground standing on the famous North Bank and will never forget a special moment with his daughter that involved Carlos Tevez.
As the Club prepare for a historic move to the new Stadium during the summer, Jupitus looks back at his time attending the Boleyn Ground and describes what makes it one of the most unique stadiums in Europe....
Phill, this has been an emotional time for everyone connected with the Club. What are your feelings on the big move away from the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "It is strange because you think about the size of the place and the physical closeness to games.
"Obviously the sport has changed immeasurably over the last 20 years and it is certainly the passing of an era. The move had to happen."
What are your standout memories from attending the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "I used to work for a fanzine called 'Fortunes Always Hiding' and my nickname with the lads was part-time Porky as I used to wake up on a Saturday morning and decide if I want to go to the game and that is an age that has passed. "I lived in Bow and used to wake up on a Saturday and think do I want to go to the Pictures or go to the football. You could just turn up a the footie with a fiver and get in! "I miss that and standing on the old shelf on the left hand side of the North Bank. I used to stand up there by the Tea Bar and it was a great view of the goal.
"I know the away fans have been situated there so I hope they enjoy it as well! I used to really enjoy the North Bank and miss that a lot."
You have seen a number of entertaining players over the years. If you had to pick out one favourite who would it be and why?
PJ: "There was a time when I brought my daughter and Carlos Tevez was playing. I remember turning to her and saying this man is going to score a goal now! What he will do is kick the ball and it will curve in the air and into the corner of the net. "He scored the goal and she looked at me like I was a wizard! It was a one-off but the way we took to Tevez and he took to us said a lot about the Club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's £85million windfall
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United earned in excess of £85million from prize money payments during the 2015/16 season. West Ham's income of £85.765,168 was the eighth-highest figure amongst Premier League clubs. Although the Hammers received less than both Liverpool and Chelsea, despite finishing above both in the table, they earned around £1million more than sixth-placed Southampton.
West Ham's windfall consisted of £17.4million from merit money (the reward for finishing seventh in the table), £12.5million from facility fees (dependant on the number of live matches broadcast), £22million from domestic TV deals, £29.5million from overseas TV deals and finally, £4.5million from a pooled central commercial (ie sponsor) fund.
The highest earners were Arsenal, who earned £101million - that's £4million more than Manchester City (£97million) and Manchester United and £8million more than Premier League champions Leicester City, who earned the fifth-highest revenue.
In stark contrast, Aston Villa - who finished bottom of the league and were relegated to the Championship - received just shy of £67million, which Norwich (£67million) and Bournemouth (£71million) made up the bottom three.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers go Posh this summer
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Details of a second pre-season friendly have been announced for this July. A West Ham XI will travel to the ABAX stadium on Tuesday, 19 July to face League One outfit Peterborough United for the second successive year. The Posh are currently manager by former Hammer Grant McCann, who was named as the permanent successor to Graham Westley earlier this month. Slaven Bilic's current squad will be hoping to better last July's result when the two sides drew 3-3, with West Ham's goals coming from Mark Noble, Diafra Sakho and Martin Samuelsen. The match was also notable for a standing ovation given to former Hammer Jack Collison as he warmed up on the sidelines for Peterborough. Collison has since retired from the game due to his injuries. Earlier today it was confirmed that West Ham would also be visiting fellow League One side Southend United this July. The current confirmed pre-season schedule is as follows.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
19 July: Peterborough Utd (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New pre-season fixture confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
A West Ham United XI will face Southend United at Roots Hall on Saturday, 23 July. The Hammers will make the almost annual trip down the A13 to face the Shrimpers in a pre-season friendly this summer, according to the League One club. Last season DImitri Payet made his West Ham debut against the Shrimpers, netting twice and providing an assist as the Hammers ran out 3-2 winners.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reports: West Ham launch fresh Tore bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are reported to have made a fresh offer for Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore. A number of sources are this morning running with news of talks between the two parties to determine a fee for the 24-year-old, who Hammers boss Slaven Bilic rates highly from his time in Turkey. West Ham were reported to have had a €10million offer for Tore rejected last January. And just last month, Besiktas vice-president Ahmet Nur Cebi admitted that his club would be prepared to allow the German-born forward to leave the club - but not for less than €30million. "We do not intend to sell anyone at the moment," said Cebi, speaking at the time. "But if they offer €30million (circa £24million) for a player we paid €5million for, we would have to think about it."
Bilic has previously gone on record with his admiration for Tore's talent. Speaking to Socrates magazine last October, he revaled that he had tried to make the player one of his first captures when arriving at the Boleyn Ground. "Gokhan is a legend," said Bilic. "He is a top guy and a great player. Of course I would love to have him in the team [at West Ham]. I tried to sign him at the start of the season, but it was not the right time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in talks to sign Gokhan Tore, according to Sky sources
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 24/05/16 12:00pm
SSN
West Ham are in advanced talks to sign winger Gokhan Tore from Besiktas, according to Sky sources. Negotiations are ongoing for the 24-year-old, with the Turkish club believed to value their player at £12m. The Hammers are looking to bolster their squad ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium and a Europa League campaign and have already agreed a deal to bring Norway midfielder Havard Nordtveit to the club when the transfer window opens. But manager Slaven Bilic wants further reinforcements to build on his promising first season at the club, although a £31m bid for Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette and a £25m bid for Bournemouth pair Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie have failed in recent weeks. Tore, who spent two years at Chelsea as a youth player after being found by Frank Arnesen while playing for Bayer Leverkusen, signed a five-year deal at Besiktas in 2014 after a £3m move from Rubin Kazan. He has won 26 caps for Turkey and has been named in the 31-man provisional squad for Euro 2016.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers target hopes look dead in water
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Regular speculation that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a West Ham target looks dead in the water this morning with Jose Mourinho reportedly ready to take over the reins at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Paris St-Germain and United are set to hand him a one-year, £250,000-a-week contract. The Swedish superstar was seen as an ideal candidate to join the Olympic Stadium-bound Hammers but the free signing now looks a strong favourite to join the Mourinho OT regime. The pair know each other well and sources strongly tip a year's contract for the 34 year old under his former boss who also has to look at the situation involving Reece Oxford. It has been strongly reported that United were plotting a £10 million move under sacked Louis van Gaal although Hammers insiders claim he is going nowhere. However Mourinho will be looking at any proposed business on the United agenda and take a view so nothing can be ruled out at this stage.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
French striker targets valued at €90m
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Lyon president has told French newspaper Le Progres that ideally they want to keep hold of Alexandre-Lacazette but he has not categorically ruled out a sale of the 24 year old this summer. It has now been claimed that the Ligue 1 outfit have slapped on an asking price of 50million euros [£38.7m] and are not prepared to lower their valuation.
It remains to be seen if the Hammers would ever match Lyon's demands but they may have to move quickly as a number of clubs have been linked with Lacazette in recent weeks, including PSG, Spurs and Atletico Madrid.
LacazMeanwhile, Olympique de Marseille is said to value their prized striker, Michy Batshuayi at €40million (£31m) mostly due to a sell-on clause in his contract.
According to Mercato 365, Spurs sent scouts were in attendance at the Stade de France on Saturday evening as Marseille lost 4-2 to Paris Saint-Germain in the Coupe de France final. The 22-year-old has scored 24 goals and supplied 10 assists in 51 matches in all competitions this season, including 17 goals and nine assists from 36 Ligue 1 encounters.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vardy release bait clause
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Jamie Vardy is available to Champions League clubs although his personal demands are likely to remain out of West Ham's reach. The 29 year old is understood to have a £25 million release trigger in his contract and the Irons are ready to pay the fee. Any talking cannot take place until after the transfer window opens but it is well known that the club has had him on the radar but with one more bumper deal in prospect the Hammers are set to be priced out of that market. We understand that a minimum £100k a week plus first team appearance bonuses would be involved and that could rise to as high as £125k plus. Vardy has regularly pledged loyalty to the Foxes but the fact he can be prised away for a cut price fee will alert Premier League rivals. Vardy's release clause is reported as having been inserted into the contract he signed in February, and was also apparently extensively scouted by Manchester City during his 24-goal Premier League campaign.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boleyn Pub SOS
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The famous Boleyn pub, on the corner of Green Street and Barking Road is preparing for life after after the Boleyn Ground is demolished by offering a membership scheme for West Ham supporters. They are asking their football regulars to pay £120 annual membership to stop the place being closed down. The membership fee will fund private coaches to the former Olympic stadium on home match days but members will also receive a discount at the bar. The posters in the windows read like an SOS saying : "As you all know West Ham United are moving to the Olympic Stadium, Stratford for the 2016/2017 season. We want to keep the spirit of the The Boleyn Pub going, so we are offering an annual membership that will provide transport from the Boleyn to Stratford for every home game. You will also receive bar discounts on every home and away games. To find out more or to sign up for your membership call us or speak to one of our bar staff. Call us on 0208472 2182?
The Black Lion in Plaistow, another West Ham pub, is also looking at transporting fans to Stratford.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Michail Antonio is not for Sale
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
We know the silly season is now in full swing with the ludicrous suggestion linking Michail Antonio with newly promoted Middlesbrough today. The transfer gossip section of the London evening standard writes: "Even newly promoted teams will have a significant amount of bargaining power and Middlesbrough, who are set to compete in the top tier next term, have reportedly identified West Ham's Michail Antonio as a key target. The versatile midfielder, who can also play at right-back, proved to be a slow burner for Slaven Bilic's side but enjoyed a stellar second half of the season.The Hammers are not thought to be keen to sell while Boro are willing to offer up to £8 million for the 26-year-old." The suggestion that West Ham would entertain bids for Antonio is just plain daft in the first place, never mind the cheap £8m price tag and why Michail would consider leaving West Ham to join Middlesbrough. They really haven't thought this one through very well. I think we can safety put this one to bed and not worry about it too much.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers play cards close to chest on winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham were this morning reported to be in advanced talks with Beiktas flying winger Gokhan Tore. But although they have admitted to us in the past he is a potential target the club were refusing to put anything on the record when ClaretandHugh contacted them a few minutes ago That, however, is sometimes the best indicator that a deal may indeed be on the cards. Slaven Bilic has called for a clampdown on transfer leaks within the club but both the morning newspapers and Sky are claiming the deal is close. Our senior source said simply: "No comment – we are running with for 25 players." The player however is a huge Bilic favourite and the manager wanted to sign him at the stat of his Hammers reign last summer. We were indeed told a couple of weeks ago that Tore was a target alhough a striker wasthe bigger priority and that the club would only move in on the Turk sooner if they failed with bids in that area.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus match restricted to 54,000
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Demand for Juventus friendly match on Sunday 7th August continues to grow with the club are confident that they will sell out all 54,000 tickets by the end of this week. A source close to the ticket office told Claret and Hugh at lunch time "We expect a sell out most likely by the end of the week. It has been incredible sales figures" The pre season friendly against Werder Bremen on 2nd August last year managed just 9,919 supporters despite being the final season at the Boleyn Ground. When Claret and Hugh checked the ticket premium rate hotline at 12 noon there were 11 people in the queue with an average wait time of 24 minutes. The Juventus sell out will limited to 54,000 seats rather than the increased 60,000 capacity of the converted stadium. Our source told us "At present the stadium is part of the initial test stage which is set to 54,000 for safety certificate reasons, therefore it allows a preview in advance of the first 60,000 game a week later "
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with French left back
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reports in the Daily Mail suggest West Ham have made enquiries for Lille left back Djibril Sidibe. Watford, Arsenal , Everton and Lyon are also reported to have made enquiries for the 23-year-old, who can also play as a right back. Sidibe is valued at 15 million euros (£11.5m) by his club, who finished the 2015-16 season in fifth place in Ligue 1. Everton reportedly had a £10million bid for Lille left-back rejected this week while Lyon and Watford have both scouted the defender. Arsenal are said to be willing to make a move if the out-of-favour Kieran Gibbs leaves the club. Sidibé can play as a full back on the right or left, but can also be utilized in the midfield in a defensive position. He began his career at his hometown club Troyes in 2000 at the age of eight. Sidibé made his professional debut on 17 September 2010 in a French league match against Grenoble. After helping earn Troyes promotion to Ligue 1, the then 19-year-old signed for Lille in July 2012, as cover for Mathieu Debuchy. Sidibé made his debut for Lille on 25 August 2012 against Nice.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
