Chicharito: I'm 100 per cent fit and ready
WHUFC.com
Chicharito says he is '100 per cent fit and ready' to make his West Ham United debut at Manchester United on Sunday. By a quirk of the fixture computer, West Ham kick-off the 2017/18 Premier League season at Old Trafford, the stadium where the No17 spent four seasons as a Red Devil between 2010-15. And the Mexico striker has been training daily since joining the Hammers a fortnight ago, improving his fitness and developing a chemistry with his new teammates ahead of what he admits will be an emotional return to Salford "I'm very happy and very glad at the prospect of playing my first game for West Ham on Sunday," he began. "It's the best way for me to come back to the Premier League and to a country which gave me my first chapter and first four years in Europe. It's going to be the best way to start this Premier League season if we get a good result over there, obviously, because that's the main goal in my mind and for everyone in this Club, to get a very good and very important result. "I feel I am ready and 100 per cent fit. I've been training pretty well with the lads and the decision stands with my manager, with my boss. The only thing I can say is that I am ready and if I am picked to start, I am ready and I am glad."
Chicharito refused to speculate on whether he is a better centre forward now than the one who left Manchester United for Bayer Leverkusen two summers ago, instead insisting that his only focus is on repaying the faith put in him by his new employers. "That's something I can't describe, but rather something I can only prove inside the pitch, which is where I prefer to speak!" he explained. "In May, we can see how my season went and we can answer that question.The only thing in my mind here is to obey the ideas that the manager has for me and for the team and deliver that confidence that he has in me."My mind is completely at West Ham. Right now, I'm a Hammer, I'm a West Ham player and I want to do even better than I did in Manchester and then we'll see what happens in this season."
Speaking of managers who had confidence in him, Chicharito is hoping to bump into the man who brought him to the Premier League for the first time seven years ago – Sir Alex Ferguson. "I didn't speak to him before I moved to West Ham and I don't know if he will text me before the game on Sunday, but hopefully I can see him if he goes to watch the game!" he smiled.
*You can follow West Ham United's opening Premier League game of the 2017/18 season live on whufc.com from 3pm on Sunday 13 August.
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Antonio & Haksabanovic to feature in PL2 opener
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio and West Ham United's latest signing Sead Haksabanovic are set to feature when the Hammers' PL2 side get their season underway at home to Everton on Friday night. Terry Westley's team take on the Toffees at Dagenham & Redbridge's Chigwell Construction Stadium with kick-off at 7pm and Hammers fans will get their first chance to see exciting Montenegro international Haksabanovic in action. Meanwhile, Antonio has been working hard on his comeback from a hamstring injury and will continue his countdown to a first team return with a run-out against Everton.
West Ham United Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members can watch the match for free, simply take your 2016/17 Season Ticket Card or confirmation of your Season Ticket renewal or Membership with you to gain access through the turnstiles. Tickets for non-Season Ticket Holders and non-members are priced at £5 adults and £3 concessions and turnstiles open at 6pm. Supporters are advised to arrive early to avoid queues at the turnstiles.
Academy director Terry Westley said: "It's our first game, playing against a very good side in Everton who are the Premier League 2 champions from last season. They'll be strong, and we'll be strong too. "The more people that come along to Dagenham, the better chance we have to up our game and perform to our best to get off to the best possible start, so we hope there will be a big crowd "Michail Antonio and our new boy Sead Haksabanovic will be playing, so it's also a great chance for fans to see those players in action for the first time this season."
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Hurst and Henry laud the signing of 'quality' Chicharito
WHUFC.com
Sir Geoff Hurst believes the signing of Chicharito is exactly what West Ham need to take the Club to the next level. Javier Hernandez became West Ham's fourth signing of the summer when he joined from Bayer Leverkusen and is poised to make his debut for the Club against Manchester United on Sunday.
The Mexican forward has impressed in training and Club legend Hurst, who scored 248 goals in his Irons career, reckons Chicharito and West Ham are a match made in heaven. The 1966 World Cup winner and hat-trick hero has also backed West Ham's new No17 to score at least 15 goals this season.
"West Ham have made good signings in my opinion," Hurst said at the 2017 FA & McDonald's Community Awards. "Hernandez is absolutely the right kind of striker for them. "He's got pace and if you have that you can always cause problems - 15 to 20 goals has got to be his goal this season.
"Any less than that and he should be disappointed. He's a quality player who has great movement and can score goals."
Hurst's sentiments have been echoed by Premier League legend Thierry Henry, who is expecting Chicharito to maintain his reputation of scoring important goals while at the London Stadium. The former Arsenal attacker recalls playing against Hernandez while the new West Ham signing was with Chivas and believes he will prove himself to be a great addition to Slaven Bilic's side. Henry told Sky Sports: "I played against him when I was at Barcelona and he was a young player at Chivas. I remember saying to Rafael Marquez: 'Who is that guy?' He said he was going to be a good player and it has turned out to be true. "He's an old-fashioned striker, in a way. He's lethal in the box and he can hold the ball. We've seen it since he was at Manchester United. It's not always easy to just come off the bench and score but he used to come up with some big goals at crucial moments. "It looks like a very, very good buy for West Ham. He knows the league and he has the experience of playing for two of the biggest teams in the world in Manchester United and Real Madrid.
"I wasn't surprised to see him join West Ham because they have a history of luring players like that to the club. They had Paolo Di Canio and more recently Dimitri Payet. so there is a bit of history there. "I think Chicharito will do well."
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Paul Konchesky back at Chadwell Heath
WHUFC.com
Tuesday night presented a strange situation for former Hammer Paul Konchesky, who faced a number of West Ham youngsters he now mentors.
The ex-England left-back – who now turns out for Billericay Town – was part of the Isthmian League side which took on, and beat 3-1, a Hammers XI consisting of Academy players. And since the defender has recently returned to Chadwell Heath in a bid to ignite his coaching career, his opposition was full of familiar faces.
Konchesky has been assisting Academy Director Terry Westley in recent weeks and admitted it was a strange feeling going up against the youngsters he now helps to develop. "It was weird playing against some of those lads, but of course it was a great evening and for me, it's always nice coming up against the team that you support," said the 36-year-old "It doesn't matter what age they are – it's always a great thing to do. They're a good bunch of lads – some I know pretty well now – but ultimately it was great to beat them! "I'm helping Terry and Liam [Manning] out and really enjoying it at the moment. I'm going into Chadwell Heath, mentoring a couple of the players and if I can try and help bring one or two of those through and help them develop, then that's great. "They gave us a good test on the pitch, as well. First half, I think we were on top and the strength and power showed. "They are still young boys though and they're still developing, and that's what I'm trying to help with at the Academy. You never know when you're that age – I'm sure many have a great future ahead of them."
Konchesky, who was an Academy of Football talent himself years ago, made his senior debut at Charlton Athletic in 1997, before returning to east London and West Ham in 2005. Making 70 competitive appearances for the Hammers over two seasons with the Club, the two-time international left-back knows his way around Chadwell Heath and is glad to be back. "It's good for people like me, who have been at the Club and know the Club, to be around there again, so of course it's nice to be back at Chadwell Heath," he continued. "Jack Collison is obviously also working at the Academy and he was a player with West Ham for a long while. He knows the Club inside out and I think that's a big boost for the Academy. "You never know, with me also doing a bit there, there could be a few more going back there! Coaching is something I'm definitely looking at for after playing. I'd like to think I'm really going to get involved in that side of things and I want to help the young boys develop at the Club. "At the moment, I've still got a focus on playing for this year. I always say one more year, but who knows? We will see at the end of the season. I am going to play this season here at Billericay, but I'll think about things again then."
Konchesky missed just one league game in his debut West Ham season in 2005/06, helping Alan Pardew's men to their highest finish – ninth in the top flight – for four years. And with this summer's signings, the Barking-born man believes Slaven Bilic's team can be successful in the Premier League this term. "West Ham have made some great signings this summer. Hopefully they can gel quickly, build themselves as a team and get up and running with some good early results. If that happens, you never know where that can take you."
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Westley focused on Friday's Everton opener
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley's focus immediately switched to Friday's Premier League 2 opener against Everton after the Academy of Football completed their pre-season preparations at Billericay Town on Tuesday. A young Hammers side were beaten 3-1 at the AGP Arena against a Town outfit containing former Hammers Paul Konchesky and Leo Chambers. But with the U23s set to take on last season's Premier League 2 champions later this week at Dagenham and Redbridge, Westley looked straight ahead to the campaign opener after Tuesday's defeat. He said: "It was great to be involved in the game at Billericay with all the work that's been done there, but our team will look a lot different to how it did on Tuesday. "I think when you change a team too much, it can be a too bigger test for some, and I think that showed. The end result was fragmented, and our performance. But sometimes, that's what pre-season is about. "There were no injuries though, and people are ready for selection on Friday. I'll now sit down with Liam [Manning] this week to discuss what we think the team ought to be. "It's our first game, playing against a very good side in Everton who are the Premier League 2 champions from last season. They'll be strong, and we'll be strong too. We're looking forward to it."
Isthmian League Billericay proved too strong for the Hammers ultimately, scoring through Billy Bricknell, new signing and former Arsenal and Liverpool man Jermaine Pennant, and Sam Deering.But playing against strong, senior players can only be positive for the development of the Academy's talents, according to the boss. Westley continued: "It was a good night and a good experience. For the younger players to play in front of 5,000 people, to play against a men's team which contained Paul Konchesky and Leo Chambers and Jermaine Pennant – that's great. "It was always going to be a tough game for our players. There were still a number of players who couldn't play for us tonight, some of the older ones.
"I have to say that Will Greenidge, who came on at right-back, he's only 15, and Josh Okotcha – a centre-back – they both did very well and have come away from the game in credit. "Grady Diangana, who did well and added a bit as a sub when he came on, and Martin Samuelsen first half – they were the ones who we looked at and impressed. Nathan Trott too. "It's a chance to get started on the right foot on Friday, and the more people that come, the better chance we have to up our game and perform to our best to get off to the best possible start."
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Where's there's a Will, there's a way
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th August 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for Portugal international William Carvalho. The 25-year-old Sporting Lisbon star is set to be the target of a £25million bid by the Hammers, according to Simon Jones, writing for the Mail Online. And West Ham are said to be hopeful of pushing a deal through, adds Jones, despite several other Premier League clubs having previously failed to secure a deal for the highly-rated defensive midfielder. The Angola-born Carvalho, who moved to Europe with his family as a child and joined his current club at ther age of just 13 in 2005 is understood to have a release clause of £39.5million in his contract.
* Aston Villa are keen on signing West Ham winger Robert Snodgrass, according to various sources. The 29-year-old, who joined West Ham in January in a £10million switch from relegated Hull City is being linked with a loan move to Villa Park.
* Sofiane Feghouli remains a West Ham player despite having agreed terms with Turkish club Galatasary. Regardless, the Algerian winger is still expected to complete his move to the Super Lig ahead of the start of the new season.
* Former Ajax youth star Ezra Walian has joined West Ham on trial. The 19-year-old forward, who represents Indonesia at international level was released by Ajax at the end of last season and is currrently a free agent.
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Romelu Lukaku's amazing record against West Ham
By Adam Bate
Last Updated: 09/08/17 1:47pm
SSN
Romelu Lukaku will make his Premier League debut for Manchester United on Sunday and he will fancy his chances of marking it with a goal given his record against opponents West Ham…
Much is expected of Romelu Lukaku at Manchester United following his £90m switch from Everton and he will be hoping for a fast start to life at Old Trafford. The good news for the 24-year-old striker is that he could not have picked a better opening fixture than West Ham at home. The Belgian already boasts a formidable record against Sunday's opponents.
Although Lukaku failed to find the net against the Irons in his two matches against them when on loan at West Brom, he enjoyed an astonishing scoring sequence against them during his time at Everon. In fact, Lukaku scored in his first nine appearances for Everton against West Ham, his goals directly earning nine Premier League points for his side.
The run began with a late winner on his Everton debut in 2013, and he was knocked unconscious in the process of scoring in a 3-2 win. "I remember nothing about it," Lukaku admitted at the time. "I did not even know I had scored. That was the first thing I asked the doc. I said, 'Who scored?' He said, 'You.'" But West Ham fans will not forget his knack for crucial late goals.
In the reverse fixture at Goodison Park in 2014, Lukaku grabbed the only goal of the game in the 81st minute. The following year there was a last-gasp equaliser in an FA Cup tie. He also scored in extra-time of the replay and then finished that season by scoring a stoppage-time winner in a 2-1 victory over the Hammers in May.
Not that Lukaku has always had it his own way. Despite extending his scoring sequence against West Ham to eight matches with the opener at Goodison Park in March 2016, a missed penalty when two goals up proved costly. Everton went on to surrender the lead and lose 3-2. Even so, he was back on the scoresheet in a 2-0 home win last October.
Romelu Lukaku scored against West Ham on nine of the 10 occasions he faced them in an Everton shirt. He also has four assists against the Irons.
Lukaku's streak only came to an end in a goalless draw at the London Stadium in April. West Ham were particularly vigilant. "He has got a good record against us, and we probably haven't defended as well against him as we could have done in games gone by," said James Collins beforehand. "Physically, he has got everything, he is big, strong and he can finish."
That shut out owed much to the efforts of Winston Reid and he is likely to be the man asked to mark Lukaku again at Old Trafford. Given the team's earlier struggles against the striker, Reid was pretty blunt about what is required to keep Lukaku at bay when explaining the long-awaited clean sheet afterwards. "Don't let him turn," said the centre-back.
"If he's not going to turn then he is not going to score, is he? It'd be pretty difficult. We wanted to try and keep him away from the goal. I know it's pretty boring but it's pretty simple I guess. We just had to be on him in the box and make sure he couldn't turn."
Nothing too complex then but is it easier said than done? It certainly has been on the last five occasions that West Ham have faced Lukaku on their travels. Bookmakers Sky Bet rate the forward as an 8/13 on chance to score on his Manchester United debut. Lukaku's history against the Hammers would suggest that he is odds-on for a very good reason.
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West Ham's Javier Hernandez may not celebrate at Man Utd
Last Updated: 09/08/17 6:00pm
SSN
West Ham striker Javier Hernandez admits he does not know if he will celebrate a debut goal against former club Manchester United. The 29-year-old joined the Hammers for £16m from Bayer Leverkusen this summer, two years after he left United for the Bundesliga side, and finds himself facing his old team at Old Trafford on Sunday. Hernandez, who scored 59 goals in his time in Manchester, says he will have a tough decision to make if he manages to open his West Ham account in their opening game, live on Sky Sports Premier League. "I don't know if I will celebrate if I score at Old Trafford," he said.
"It's my old club, my old fans, my old stadium but it'll be my first goal for West Ham. "I am not thinking about the celebration, I just want to have the chance to start and get my team the result. "I am very happy and glad, it's the best way to come back and open at Old Trafford. "I am a Hammer, a West Ham player, I want to do even better than I did in Manchester."
Hernandez found his first-team options limited during his final days at United and even spent a season on loan at Real Madrid in an attempt to play more football. He left for Leverkusen in 2015 - with current United boss Jose Mourinho since insisting he would never have allowed the Mexico international to leave had he been in charge - but Hernandez says he does not rue his decision. "I never have regretted leaving Manchester United," he said. "I had some great experiences there and it helped me when I did move on."
Hernandez is one of a number of new arrivals at the London Stadium as Slaven Bilic looks to build a squad capable of improving on the 11th-placed finish last season. Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has joined on a season-long loan while his former team-mate at the Etihad Stadium, Pablo Zabaleta, has also come in. The club broke their transfer record to bring in Stoke's Marko Arnautovic, with midfielder Sead Haksabanovic signing from Halmstads earlier this week. Hernandez is a big fan of Hart and believes the new crop can help West Ham qualify for continental competition. The European spots are the main goal for us this season. No doubt," he added. "Joe Hart is a great lad, a great professional. He always gives 100 per cent on the training ground. "He has been in the national team for so long, playing in the Champions League, he is a great goalkeeper."
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WEST HAM NEED THREE AT THE BACK
By Blind Hammer 9 Aug 2017 at 08:00
WTID
Blind Hammer is puzzled about Bilic's apparent reluctance to address defensive weaknesses.
Readers of my posts here will be familiar with my concentration on the defensive fragilities of West Ham. This is the 3rd post this summer and the 6th since last year which has tried to highlight this as an issue. There is a risk that I sound like a broken record, but the point has to be hammered home. Like all on here I love West Ham. However I am baffled by the priorities and squad analysis which is highlighted by both Bilic and the Board.
First of all broken record time. 6 weeks ago I flatly and completely disagreed with the publicly stated analysis produced by the club hierarchy that West Ham flirted with relegation because they did not have sufficient strikers last season. I fail to see how any detailed analysis of last season can conclude this. West Ham was plunged into the relegation mire because we could not defend. This was the sad and unpalatable fact. Actually West Ham conceded more points from winning positions than any other team. This was the standout weakness.
Certainly there were other problems. Bilic admitted problems with intensity, commentators criticised fitness and athleticism, and there was undeniably a problem with finding a fit striker to play up front.
Despite these issues it was overwhelmingly the defence which nearly dragged us into the relegation mire. Although we eventually finished 11th, this disguised the real position. In a compressed lower table we were, like many other clubs, in the end only a few points away from the relegation trapdoor. We were certainly far closer to the relegation fight than any realistic chance of challenging the top 7.
In actual fact there were two questions with our defensive performances. The first was that we managed to regularly concede goals against competition from teams around and below us. For example we conceded a lead against Middlesbrough at home, a performance remarkable given Middlesbrough's inability to score against most of the rest of the PL. The Watford defeat at home was particularly demoralising for the team, with promising attacking play ending up with us being hammered with 4 goals at the other end.
In addition, on most occasions we simply could not live, defensively, with top 6 teams either at home or way. The problem for our fan base is that in general we started to approach games against Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool with an element of fear and apprehension. Expecting a rout at home by 4 or more goals certainly did not help adjust to the new London Stadium.
However I am personally convinced that these terrible defensive performances have nothing whatsoever to do with playing at the London Stadium. The fact is that ever since January of 2016 we have had a leaky defence. The final year at the Boleyn was exciting but we were seeping goals all over the place. I produced an analysis last year to show how we were conceding on average 2 goals a game in the latter half of that season starting with the famous Everton away win during which, even there, we conceded 2 goals. We should remember that in our last two games at the Boleyn alone, despite the excitement of the Manchester United game, we conceded 6 goals, losing 1-4 to Swansea.
So this is a problem which has beset our team for at least 18 months. We go on quite long unwelcome runs during which we on average concede at least 2 goals a game, at times last season we were averaging a 3 goal deficit every game. There is no way on earth a side can plan for success with this defensive record. If a team has to score 3 goals on average to win, or 2 to gain a point we will be in trouble. This will be the case whatever Stella attackers we bring to the club, welcome though they be, If we had Namer, Ronaldo Messy and so on we would struggle if we continued to concede at this rate.
Thankfully, for our survival last season, Bilic adjusted to this problem. The most productive and successful tactic he deployed was to play 3 centre backs. Although this system was tried and failed in the away games against Chelsea and Manchester City early in the season it was deployed with much more success, with Collins as a component in the latter parts of the season. This was the bedrock which underpinned the famous win against Tottenham. It was also the method underlying the shut out of Everton's Romelu Lukaku to finally stop his scoring run against us. These were important not just for morale, but the eventual critical points they provided us with. Our points total was helped by the away win at Burnley but as Bilic said at the time it might have been very different if the pressure had been on to get a result on that final day.
This makes it all the more baffling is that, as far as I can see, all the club recruitment and pre-season preparation has revolved around returning to the failed 4 at the back formation which has created so many problems. There is only limited evidence that the club has got to grips with this over the summer. Weaknesses in the Goalkeeping and right back position have been addressed. However the critical central part of our defence is completely unrefreshed and actually denuded. We have a suspect central defensive section which is just as much injury prone as our striking section. Collins, Obonna, Reid, and Fonte all have significant injury records. If we are to cover 3 positions at the back it seems irresponsible to me to rely on 4 defenders, none of which have managed to complete a season in recent history.
In comparison and in contrast we have 3 or possibly 4 striking options to cover essentially 1 loan striking position in our normal formation. Admittedly our striking options are injury prone but the same can be said for our defensive options.
It stretches my credibility that we are really intending to rely on only 4 central defenders with inconsistent fitness to cover 3 critical positions in our squad. With our present line up it will, I predict, be inevitable that we will be playing people out of position in central defence to fill the gaps.
This seems a monumental gamble to me. Yet this is a gamble that the club seem oblivious to. 2 of our brightest young guns, Burke and Oxford, have been sent out on loan, with only the promising 18 year old Rice to backup what looks largely like an aging quartet with suspect pace.
Most of you will have the advantage over me in reviewing pre-season performances. I have not been able to access any radio or audio commentaries. We should also be aware that famously pre-season performances may not be a guide to actual Premier League performance. Despite this it appears, from reports, that at no time have we reverted to 3 at the back in our pre-season preparation. I find this baffling given that the only time we looked secure last season was when we deployed this formation.
Despite the unreliability of pre-season friendlies it does not look like that we have achieved any defensive solidity against even lesser opposition. Conceding 3 in a lack lustre display against Manchester City was wearyingly predictable but surely it was not part of the plan for a largely first choice defence to concede 3 goals a few days earlier against the German equivalent of Forest Green Rovers?
Finally and in conclusion I do not insist that West Ham have to play 3 at the back. If we can play 4 at the back and achieve successful defensive solidity I will be personally delighted and race onto this site to eat humble pie. However what I do insist on is that West Ham should at the very least prepare in their squad and team formations for the option of playing 3 at the back, given the critical role this has achieved with past performances. There seems limited evidence that this has achieved sufficient priority in either squad development or the pre-season friendlies. In our first game we will face the agent of multiple previous goals conceded and defeats in the shape of Romelu Lukaku. We overcame his goalscoring prowess with the Payet inspired comeback in 2016. Apart from this The only occasion in 9 attempts that we looked as if we could cope with his threat was when we played 3 at the back against Everton in our home fixture last season. Our pre-season does not seem to have learnt any of these lessons.
Time will tell.
COYI
David Griffith
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West Ham take Ezra Walian on loan as former Ajax youth star looks to impress in English football
Ezra Walian was released by Ajax this summer and is looking to move to England
West Ham have had the former youth star on trial at the club this summer
Forward has also been invited to Bolton and Hull as he looks for a new club
Meanwhile, West Ham could sell midfielder Robert Snodgrass to Aston Villa
By Simon Jones for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 13:31 BST, 9 August 2017 | UPDATED: 13:31 BST, 9 August 2017
West Ham have been giving a trial to former Jong Ajax forward Ezra Walian. The 19-year-old can play as a central striker or on either wing and is a free agent after his contract ran out at the end of June. He scored 11 goals in 22 games for Jong Ajax last season. Born in Amsterdam, Walian represented Holland at U19 level but is now an Indonesia international and has also been invited to Bolton Wanderers and Hull City for training.
Meanwhile, West Ham could see Robert Snodgrass leave this summer, with Aston Villa eyeing a move for the midfielder. He only joined last season, but the Hammers are open to offers for the 29-year-old Scotland international.
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Aston Villa eyeing move for Robert Snodgrass with West Ham open to offers for midfielder
29-year-old midfielder Robert Snodgrass only joined West Ham last season
However, the Hammers are open to offers for the Scotland international
Aston Villa would have to sign him on an initial loan with view to permanent deal
Villa are also among the clubs to hold an interest in striker Jordan Rhodes
By Simon Jones for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 12:52 BST, 9 August 2017 | UPDATED: 12:52 BST, 9 August 2017
Aston Villa are keen on bringing in West Ham midfielder Robert Snodgrass this summer. The 29-year-old only joined West Ham last season but they are open to offers for the Scotland international. Villa, however, would need to sign him on an initial loan with view to a permanent deal owing to financial fair play implications The left-footed midfielder failed to make a major impact at West Ham last campaign, making just 15 appearances, with eight of those coming from the bench. Snodgrass also failed to score for the Hammers following his £10.2million move from Hull back in January.
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Has the new John Terry, Declan Rice, played his way into the Slaven Bilic's side at West Ham?
HITC
Damien Lucas
There have not been many positives to take from West Ham United's pre-season matches. Slaven Bilic's side have looked unfit and out of form during the build up to the new Premier League season. The last two games saw the Hammers draw 3-3 with a German fourth tier team before a 3-0 hiding at the hands of Manchester City which could have been many more. While results don't matter in pre-season, the club's only win has come against Fulham 2-1.
The club's new signings Pablo Zabaleta, Joe Hart, Marko Arnautovic and Javier Hernandez have been slowly bedding in. But it is academy graduate Declan Rice who has been the biggest positive. West Ham's defence is ageing with Jose Fonte and James Collins turning 34 this season and Zabaleta turning 33 while Winston Reid and Angelo Ogbonna both have questionable injury records too. So the emergence of the 18-year-old Rice - who has already been called up by Ireland to train with Martin O'Neill's first team squad - has come at the perfect time.
While the equally promising and arguably more talented Reece Oxford has been shipped out on loan to Germany, Rice, a year below him has been included in Bilic's plans for the first team. And it is easy to see why. Amid all the mediocrity on show from West Ham against Manchester City Rice was the standout player. Reading the game, showing confidence, strength, determination, leadership and a will to win Rice was nothing short of a revelation.
Whisper it quietly because he is not the most popular figure in East London but the young Irishman has the hallmarks of another former West Ham academy product.... one John Terry. Terry left for Chelsea at the age of 14 to play with his friends. But Rice has come in the other direction and is here to stay. Don't be surprised if he is a first team regular by Christmas.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 9
Tuesday, August 8
Daily WHUFC News - 9th August 2017
Season opener on sale to Members
WHUFC.com
Your first chance to see our four big summer signings in action at London Stadium is just around the corner – so make sure you don't miss out by becoming a Claret Member today!
Tickets for the home opener against Huddersfield Town are now on sale exclusively to Claret Members, and as a reward for our Members' loyal support, we're giving them the opportunity to purchase an extra ticket for this fixture, meaning they can secure up to two tickets each for the Monday night fixture.
Ticket are priced from just £15 for Under-16s and from £30 for adults.
With almost all home fixtures selling out within the Members priority window last season, we recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Book tickets here
For accessibility seating please email accessibility@westhamunited.co.uk or call 0333 030 0174 for further information
If you're not already a Claret Member, join today to get exclusive priority on all Premier League and Cup fixtures at London Stadium plus a host of additional benefits. Click here to find out more.
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7 things you probably didn't know about Sead Haksabanovic
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have completed the signing of exciting Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic on a five-year contract. Here, we find out more about the former Halmstads BK player…
Born in Swedish village of Hyltebruk, Sead Haksabanovic joined his local club Halmstads BK at the age of six
Haksabanovic made his Halmstads BK debut against IFK Norkopping in Sweden's top flight in April 2015, aged just 15 years and eleven months
The young prodigy was invited over for a trial with Manchester United in 2015, training alongside the likes of Marcus Rashford and Timothy Fosu-Mensah
He netted eight goals in 30 appearances as relegated HBK bounced back to win promotion at the first attempt via the play-offs in 2016
Haksabanovic has been fouled 48 times in 18 Allsvenskan appearances for Halmstads BK this season – the third-highest in Sweden's top-flight
The 18-year-old has also unleashed 50 shots, a figure bettered by only three other players, despite his team winning just two of their 18 league games
The teenager played age-group international football for Sweden before switching his allegiance to Montenegro earlier this year. He debuted for the country of his father's birth in a win over Armenia in June
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Hart and Zaba: We can't wait to play at London Stadium
WHUFC.com
West Ham United new boys Joe Hart and Pablo Zabaleta cannot wait to pull on a Hammers shirt at London Stadium for the first time.
The two summer signings are set to make their home debut for the Club in the Premier League fixture with Huddersfield Town on Monday 11 September at 8pm, tickets for which are now on sale to Claret Members here.
Hart and Zabaleta both know the importance of vociferous home support and are relishing what promises to be a huge night under the floodlights on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
"We know how important our home form will be this season if we are to achieve our targets, and we are all massively looking forward to our first Premier League game at London Stadium," said England goalkeeper Hart, who has arrived on a season-long loan from Manchester City.
"We start against Huddersfield Town under the floodlights and it's going to be big game in front of a big TV audience. We all want to kick-off with a win and the support of the fans will give us a big boost on the night.
"I'm absolutely sure it will be a complete sell out and I'm told it will be completely full of Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members, which just shows how big our club is and the potential we have got."
Unlike Hart, who spent last season with Italian club Torino, Zabaleta has already experienced London Stadium for himself, appearing in Manchester City's FA Cup victory at West Ham's new home in January.
As someone who has faced the Hammers 12 times previously overall, the right-back knows the atmosphere the Claret and Blue Army can generate, and is looking forward to experiencing it again next month.
"I visited London Stadium twice last season and I was impressed by the size of the ground and the fantastic noise created by the West Ham fans," said the No5.
"We know we need to be united this season and that we need to make London Stadium a real fortress, and the fans can definitely help us do that.
"I am excited and looking forward to playing at London Stadium in our opening game, for sure. Pulling on the shirt and playing in front of nearly 60,000 fans is definitely one of the big reasons I signed for West Ham United."
Claret Members can purchase two seats each for the home Premier League opener with Huddersfield now – the first chance to see the Club's five summer signings in action on home turf.
Tickets for the visit of the newly-promoted Terriers now on sale exclusively to Claret Members, priced from just £15 for U16s and from £30 for Adults.
With almost all home fixtures selling out within the Members priority window last season, we recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.
For Accessibility seating please email accessibility@westhamunited.co.uk or call 0333 030 0174 for further information.
If you're not already a Claret Member, join here today to get exclusive priority on all Premier League and Cup fixtures at London Stadium plus a host of additional benefits.
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Andre Ayew: Our actions will speak louder than words
WHUFC.com
Andre Ayew knows a thing or two about playing under pressure.
The Ghana star has been capped more than 75 times by his country, appeared at seven major tournaments, featured in the UEFA Champions League and is the son of a three-time African Footballer of the Year.
This summer, having signed four experienced internationals, expectations have risen sharply that West Ham United will enjoy a successful 2017/18 Premier League season – but Ayew has cautioned against getting carried away by the Hammers' potential.
"I think we have the squad, the players and the quality to be able to do something good, but I think a lot of other teams also have great players and great squads, so we need to be calm and work hard," said Ayew, who won four trophies and Player of the Year honours with former club Marseille and has twice inspired Ghana to the Africa Cup of Nations final.
"We know what we want and the gaffer [Slaven Bilic] has given his directions and we are following them. It's only with time and games that you can start to feel what you can do.
"Last season, I wouldn't say it was a bad season but we had a lot of ups and downs and we only finished one point away from eighth position. We need to work hard, stay calm and have the belief that we can do something great."
I think we have the squad, the players and the quality to be able to do something good, but I think a lot of other teams also have great players and great squads, so we need to be calm and work hard
West Ham kick-off the new Premier League campaign with a trip to Manchester United on Sunday, the first of three straight away games to start the new season.
With the Hammers also journeying to Southampton and Newcastle United before welcoming Huddersfield Town to London Stadium on 11 September, forward Ayew is anxious that people do not let their emotions run away with them before the season is even a month old.
On the other hand, the African says a decent return from those three away matches will set the Hammers up nicely ahead of the visit of the newly-promoted Terriers.
"We shouldn't really talk too much," said the No20. "It's difficult for us to start the season already with three away games so we need to see how we start the season and from there we can start to know where we are.
"The best way for us is to start well and if we get a good start I think we're going to do a good season. That's football. When you start well, it puts you in a positive mindset and gives you the confidence to believe you can do something.
"If we have a good start this year, we have experienced players and good young players so we have a good blend. I believe the gaffer knows exactly what he wants, we are right behind him, so we are going to push and see if we can finish as high as we can because the Club and the fans deserve to be smiling at the end of the season."
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Hammers Ladies appoint Amy Cooper as captain
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies have appointed Amy Cooper (pictured right) as captain and Amber Stobbs (pictured left) as vice-captain for the 2017/18 season.
The pair were presented with their armbands by West Ham United Ladies Ambassador Michail Antonio at the Rush Green training ground recently.
Cooper takes on the captaincy for the second successive season, having made a hugely positive impression last year, and is looking forward to an exciting campaign ahead.
The 24-year-old central midfielder said: "I am delighted to be selected as captain for West Ham United for the second season running. I feel that we have a really hard working and motivated team this year, with a number of new signings increasing the competition for positions, which will only help us improve on what we had last season.
"This season we are striving to win some silverware - playing how we have over pre-season, with a few improvements in weaker areas, I am really excited about what we can achieve."
Vice-captain Amber, also 24, joined the Club this summer from Women's Super League side Everton and added: "I am very pleased, and surprised, to be appointed vice-captain.
"During pre-season training, I have been trying to get my experience across, working out how different players react to different communication, and hopefully showing leadership qualities.
"It's a role that I have held in the past at other clubs growing up, and I am honoured to have been considered for it here at West Ham."
First team manager Greg De Carnys said: "I am absolutely delighted to appoint Amy and Amber as captain and vice-captain this season.
"Amy, who was Club captain last season, has a great personality and naturally the other girls do see her as a leader on and off the pitch.
"She also epitomises what we are about here, in how hard she has worked at her game and consequently in the progress she has made as a player over the last ten months.
"Amber has come in and settled brilliantly into the group. She obviously has the respect of the other players because of the way she approaches her game and I think she can be a great influence for some of the younger and less experienced players we have in the team.
"We have a fantastic bunch of girls and they are very well represented by Amy and Amber."
General Manager Karen Ray added: "Amy and Amber are both great leaders on and off the pitch, they conduct themselves in ways which others aspire to. They both demonstrate great professionalism, ambition and a desire to take West Ham United Ladies to the top of the Women's game.
"Their interaction with all age groups throughout the Ladies set up shows how effective they both are as role models to players who are on their pathway.
"We are proud to have two hardworking, ambitious Ladies leading the way as we embark on the 2017/18 season."
The West Ham United Ladies kick off their FA Women's Premier League campaign away at Gillingham on Sunday 20 August.
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'Talented, technical and humble' – Sead Haksabanovic in profile
WHUFC.com
West Ham United made exciting teenager Sead Haksabanovic the Club's fifth summer signing this week.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has already made 70 senior appearances for Swedish Allsvenskan club Halmstad BK and earned his first senior international cap for Montenegro in June.
Here, we find out more the Hammers new boy…
'An exceptional talent'
Halmstad BK chairman Tony Karlsson has watched Haksabanovic rise from teenage prodigy to potential Premier League star in the space of three years.
It was Karlsson who gave his blessing to the midfielder's move from the west coast of Sweden to the east end of London, where he expects Haksabanovic to continue to fulfil his undoubted promise.
"Sead has been with since he was six-years-old and has been successful in our academy," said Karlsson, who took charge at HBK in 2015, the same year Haksabanovic made his first-team debut at the age of 15.
"He is an exceptional talent and we as a club are very happy that he gets the chance to come to a Premier League club.
"I think he is a player who not only has talent but also works very hard. His awareness of the game is one that few can match and it has taken him all the way to the Premier League."
A young man in demand
Karlsson revealed that Halmstad and Haksabanovic himself turned down interest from leading clubs in Italy, Spain, Belgium and Turkey to hone his game in Sweden's top flight.
After inspiring HBK to promotion last season, when he started all 30 league games, scored eight goals and registered eight assists, he is again Halmstad's leading scorer this term.
"He has raised his game to another level this season and that he chose to stay gave him the opportunity to go to one of the best leagues in the world," Karlsson observed. "This is so much bigger in all ways.
"West Ham have a coach [in Slaven Bilic] who does not care about age but about the player's attitude and talent. In addition, they play 4-3-3 which should fit Sead well. The Club also seems very well organized and family-oriented, despite its size.
"It's a great move to go from Allsvenskan to the Premier League, but Sead has the right conditions to handle it."
A model of consistency
Despite being just 16 at the start of the 2016 campaign – Sweden's league season runs from April to October – Haksabanovic's outstanding displays earned him Players' Player of the Year honours.
The youngster has started Halmstad's last 52 league matches, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists, and has not missed a first-team game since August 2015.
A model of consistency, he started all 30 Superettan (second tier) matches for Halmstad, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists, meaning he played a direct role in 15 (or 34.8 per cent) of his team's 43 league goals!
Haksabanovic has continued to shine in 2017, despite his club side winning just two of their 18 Allsvenskan matches, playing all but 25 minutes, scoring four goals and leading his team in shots, dribbles and key passes. A hard-working player, he also ranks second in tackles attempted!
When it comes to the Swedish top flight as a whole, the 18-year-old ranks fifth in shots, first in shots from outside the penalty area, ninth in dribbles and 12th in key passes.
Statistically, Haksabanovic is a left winger, having started 14 of Halmstad's 18 league matches in that position, but he is two-footed and is as likely to cut inside and shoot as he is to take his man on using his pace and technical ability.
'He has a special feeling about the way he plays the game'
Jan-Owe Wikstrom is the Halmstad BK correspondent for regional newspaper and website Hallandsposten.
Wikstrom has watched Haksabanovic develop from the boy who broke a club record when he debuted aged 15 years and eleven months in April 2015, into a man whose skills were coveted by clubs all over Europe.
YouTube clips of the teenager show him repeatedly streaking past defenders before showing calm and composure to either set up a teammate or score himself – qualities the reporter confirms he has in abundance.
"Sead is a very technical player, with fantastic speed and close control with the ball at his feet," Wikstrom told whufc.com. "He can really play. He knows what he will do with the ball long before he actually does it and has a special feeling about the way he plays the game. He understands the game.
"Sead made his debut at the age of 15 but he was a player who looked like he had played for five or ten years in the league. He is a very mature young man and is not a man with big words – what we would call humble.
"He may not be so strong physically, but he is working very hard on his physical side and will get stronger as the season continues.
"I don't expect him to start for West Ham straight away, but I can see him being a substitute this season and making an impact."
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Young Hammers side beaten at Billericay
WHUFC.com
A young West Ham United XI were beaten 3-1 by Isthmian League side Billericay Town on Tuesday night in the Club's final pre-season clash of the summer.
The Hammers, managed by Terry Westley and consisting of both U23 and U18 players, could not recover after their Essex hosts scored twice in as many minutes at the end of the first half through Billy Bricknell and Jermaine Pennant, though Dan Kemp did half the deficit in the second half.
Sam Deering scored a third Town to seal the win in the final 15 minutes.
Premier League journeyman Pennant – who signed earlier this week – was one of a number of recognisable names in the home team's lineup, which included former Hammers Paul Konchesky and Leo Chambers.
In the opening half an hour at a packed AGP Arena, there was little to get excited about.
For the Hammers, Martin Samuelsen had the first attempt, marauding forward into space but shooting low and straight at the keeper from 25 yards.
With both sides keeping things tight at the back, action inside the penalty areas was limited, though Louis Theophanous did drag a left-footed attempt wide just inside the box.
Suddenly though, on the half hour mark, the game sprung to life. First, Hammers keeper Nathan Trott was forced into action as he sprung superbly to his left to keep out Deering's goalbound header.
The hosts' new signing Pennant fired well over with the goal at his mercy from the rebound.
The former Arsenal and Liverpool winger played his part in the Billericay goal just second later, however. Nodding Theophanous' centre back across goal, centre-forward Bricknell was on hand to find the back of the net with his head from inside the six-yard-box.
And a quick second was to come for Glenn Tamplin's team. Architect of the first Pennant this time turned scorer, playing a neat one-two with first goalscorer Bricknell on the edge of the box before lashing into the top left-hand corner past Trott's despairing dive.
And before the break, there were two more chances for Town, as defender Joe Ellul – up from the back for a series of set-pieces – was first denied by Trott before heading over from close range.
Early in the second period, Westley changed the Hammers' shape, introducing Grady Diangana from the bench.
And the attacking midfielder soon set about getting his team back into the game. On the hour mark, he did just that; crossing from the left for Kemp to smash home from close range.
The visitors continued to battle hard and another substitute – Korrey Henry – tested the keeper from a tight angle shortly after.
But as West Ham pushed for an equaliser, the home team had other ideas. With just under a quarter of an hour left to play, the result was put beyond doubt.
Left-back Konchesky lifted a clever ball over the top which allowed Deering, continuing his run from midfield, to knock simply past Trott in goal.
Billericay Town: Julian, Chambers, Konchesky, Ellul, Deering, Evans, Davies, Bricknell (Modeste 55), Theophanous (Robinson 55), Pennant (Urquhart 55), Foley (Cunnington 55).
Subs not used: Payne, Swaine, Robinson.
Goals: Bricknell 32, Pennant 34, Deering 76
West Ham United XI: Trott, Pike (Greenidge 54), Pask (Okotcha 67), Akinola, Neufville (Diangana 46), Coventry (Henry 46), Powell, Kemp, Trialist, Samuelsen (Hector-Ingram 61), Trialist.
Sub not used: Forde
Goals: Kemp 60
Bookings: Akinola 87
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Haksabanovic: A Swedish point of view
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 8th August 2017
By: Staff Writer
Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic became West Ham's latest signing yesterday. So we reached out to one of our Swedish Forum members for the lowdown on the 18-year-old, who cost the Hammers in the region of £3million.
"Born in 1999, he was regarded as one of our prime prospects for the future," wrote KUMB member Kasi. "He was born in the same year as two other golden prospects in Alexander Isak - who went to Dortmund for roughly €10m - and Mattias Svanberg, who plays for Malmö. "However it was quite an upset when he chose to play for Montenegro instead of Sweden, despite featuring in Under 17 and Under 19 internationals for Sweden. "He's a very gifted, attacking midfielder with good technique, pace and a good shot. In my view, the main barrier to becoming a success the Premier League or not are his physical attributes. "He's also a leader and carried Halmstad BK to promotion last year. This year, he has been their best player by a mile in Allsvenskan. All their offensive plays goes through him, which he has been able to do a more than decent job with so far in the league."
And whilst Kasi is unsure whether Haksabanovic will make the grade in England and the Premier League he is certain that either way, West Ham are unlikely to lose out financially. "£3million is not a huge sum for us, but for Halmstad it's heaven," he added. "I'm sceptical that he will make it in the Premier League, at least for the next coming season or two. "But IF he becomes be the player he has the potential to be, then West Ham will make far more than £3m when they sell him. "I should stress that Haksabanovic doesn't see West Ham as the last stop, he wants to go to a better and bigger club as soon as he's ready (in his mind), so we better keep that in mind. "But when everyone thought he would leave for free this winter, he signed a new long term contract with Halmstad - which they are certainly very grateful for today."
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WILL THE REAL SLAVEN BILIC PLEASE STAND UP?
By Iain Dale 8 Aug 2017 at 08:00 273 comments
WTID
Guest Post by Rugby Irons
We all bring a different view to games we watch and then we generally all disagree. However the recent poor showings have unified our views. So,what is it we don't like? Well here's my view as if I were our Manager.
Well the problem of injuries still besets us. So I have brought in the best alternative with Gary Lewin. No sooner as he arrives the list goes up. I had hoped that by taking the whole squad away to concentrate on the team, rather than chasing the mighty dollar, I could get the team to shape up as I wanted them to. In reality I ended up with most of the stars absent, those fit ones left and the youths, to make up the numbers. So my master plan went out of the window. Even the fitness wasn't a huge improvement. But then to make any plan to work you have everyone on board. Cue your star injured centre forward on the lash in Spain. Nice.
So it's down to the preseason games and with the youths given their chance (presumably to ensure no more injuries) and they certainly took it. Those who doubted these players would be enjoying their humble pie but again they are short of what the owners want and lack experience. Spurs, Everton and Saints, the other teams around us have blooded kids and done well from it but I'm not sure the owners want to risk it.
The results went against the team but at this point this is where I worry. I couldn't see what the plan was. What had the team been working on in the last three weeks? We lacked any cohesion. If the point of having Hernandez is to get a overflowing front line to supply passes into him to score, with the others adding to the goal tally, then we are miles off. We hardly had a shot and Martinez scored off his only shot. You can make all the injury excuses you like but Carroll and Sakho just can't be considered.
Against Altona, we were a shambles. Reid should be ashamed he let the team down and made it a farce. The standard of crossing was abysmal and in terms of a shape it wasn't there again. You look at the defence and they don't look a unit at all.
So you go up against Citeh and every alarm bell is ringing. Now for SB he is on a hiding to nothing before a ball is kicked and he wasted the opportunity to give us hope. This isn't about the second gear dominance of the game or the goals, but the wholly negative performance. Let's be clear if you go 4-5-1 then you are defending. No problem with that if you can counter. We can't.
So the strict line of five across the middle stood and watched Toure and DeBruyne split them as the Citeh had five players behind our midfield, attacking our back line. You just can't leave it if it isn't working but SB stuck with it. Changing players didn't do anything. Why didn't SB just push up the back line ten yards and defend from the 30 not the 18yard box? He put Rice on as a holding player, fair enough, and then press them back a bit. We had lost the game but he could have looked at his attack instead of his leaky defence. Ninety minutes of negative play and just one tame shot on target all game.
That's not good form. Now don't be fooled into arguing it was against Citeh.This should have been about what we were about. For me this has been a disastrous preseason because we haven't progressed and with a week to go we are in a poor place. Players coming back will now be rushed into action and the ever rotating injuries will continue.
So what do I think of the squad with a week to go:
Hart : For all his noise his feet aren't good enough. Playing out from our backline is a recipe for disaster and in his first game he now knows why Adrian was told to pack it in and Hart must be the same.
Adrian: Proved his point with strong performances and looks the part to me.
Byram: Just not big enough and doesn't create or do enough.
Zabaleta: Looks slow and heavy but his experience makes the difference. He has still impressed.
Cresswell: Looks way off the pace now. Can hardly cross a ball enough times and being totally one footed makes him weaker. Also not strong enough.
Arthur: Looks more than just a defender but creates and crosses and has right attitude.
Fonte: Way below the standard required playing for us. He just isn't quick or alert enough.
Ginge: He is what he is but you get a 100% of it.
Reid: If he strops all the time his play suffers.He should be the leader at the back but he's not at it.
Burke: Did enough to be kept and developed . His shipping out shows a weakness in the club policy.
Oxford: Why isn't he being promoted from within. Hope Germany is a positive and not a cover up.
Rice: He's 17 and if anyone needed loaning out it was him. He is behind the others in development terms. He hasn't played at centre half, or much at least, just thrown in as a make weight midfielder, which he has taken too.The beauty of being young and fearless.
Ogbonna: Concentration levels not there since coming back but this will improve.
Noble: Becoming Kevin Nolan, which just isn't fair on him. Needs to be the Noble of old.
Cullen: Has done everything required and still gets shipped out. Ridiculous.
Obiang: Has been quiet but effective. I expect him to step up immediately once we start for real.
Eddy: Hasnt impressed but hasn't had the quality around him. Will improve because he is getting games.
Koyoute. Massive loss. The real engine. Difficult to do preseason without your two best players.
Lanzini: Same as Cheikh. He will be pivotal. Needs to be protected. We have limited creativity without him.
Arnie: Has really impressed. Like Ant but the other side. Needs to up his crossing quality though.
Ant: Really need him back. His presence alone makes a difference.
Snod : He just doesn't have it. His luck has run out and nothing goes his way. It happens.
Ayew: His work rate created things and is always lively.
Carroll: Wasted talent of his own choosing. Leave him on the beach.
Sakho: Who knows, but of late another waster.
Holland: Looked good and positive.
Martinez : To score from what he has had as service is remarkable enough. Looks a good prospect and as our second striker he will do us ok.
Hernandez: His record and quality will keep us up at least if we get him the ball.
So on paper, and fit, we look good . On the injury table we look weak all over. Without a style and pattern to get balls into their box,for the front line, you then have to worry about what defence we put out. I don't normally do the player prediction because it's more about how the players respond to the role they are put in. We need to be stronger at the back and lining up on the 30 yard one not 18.
If we are going one holder, two central and two wide then we must press on and push them back. With one up they must be getting the ball in the final 20 yards not on the half way line. And this is where I take issue with Slaven. Stop being so cagey. Look at your (fit) squad and its an offensive team, even if it's a counter attacking set up we have to take a positive attitude. If you go positive we will be right behind you. Be Slaven not Sam.
And so to conclude, if the plan is to keep the ball on the floor and play counter football then the players are there to do it. But and it's a big but , you have to be positive, especially at home. We could be in trouble by the time our first home game comes, equally we could be top of the League. All things are always possible watching West Ham. So as many of you say, preseason doesn't matter, and of course they are right. So with a week to go I'm more worried by the injury list and attitude than recent results. I bet £10 for us to win the league. Well you have to, absolutely nothing is ever certain. I look forward to your comments and keeping the faith. Long live the Boleyn.
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Diafra Sakho could continue West Ham comeback against Billericay Town
The Hammers striker got an hour under his belt at the weekend
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
11:30, 8 AUG 2017UPDATED12:50, 8 AUG 2017
Diafra Sakho could continue his comeback from injury later tonight (Tuesday) when the West Ham U23s take on Billericay Town in a pre-season friendly.
The Senegal striker got an hour of game time in a 3-2 win over Spurs for the U23s on Saturday and is expected to step up his rehab once again at the AGP Arena in Essex as the youngsters continue their preparations for the PL2 Division One campaign. It's not yet known how long Sakho will get on the pitch but it's unlikely to be 90 minutes.
Winston Reid however - who played alongside Sakho at Spurs on Saturday - won't be playing in Billericay as he is back with the first team and pushing for inclusion for the Premier League opener at Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
The Hammers have tentatively pencilled in Sakho for a return to first team action on September 11, the first home game of the new season when West Ham take on Huddersfield under the lights at the London Stadium on a Monday night.
Sakho saw last season wrecked by back and hamstring injuries as he made just three appearances all season long. He scored in one of them - the 1-1 Premier League draw at Old Trafford - before he picked up his serious hamstring problem and was ruled out for the remainder of the season.
The U23s have won two of their five pre-season friendlies so far this summer as Terry Westley's side prepare for the opening PL2 fixture of the season next Friday (August 11) when the youngsters face last season's title winners, Everton, in Dagenham.
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WEST HAM REJECT PALACE'S ADRIAN BID
LUKE OSMAN @LukeOsmanRS
ReadWestHam
West Ham have turned down a bid from Crystal Palace for their out of favour goalkeeper Adrian. According to a report from the Daily Mail today, the Spaniard was the subject of a £3.5 million offer from the Eagles. Palace are evidently keen to land a new goalkeeper this summer, with Frank de Boer keen to make changes to his personnel, but they will need to up their offer if they are to stand a chance of beating others to the signing of Adrian.
Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for experienced Spanish goalkeeper, and Palace may need to act fast in revising their offer. The arrival of Joe Hart at the London Stadium appears to have spelled the end for Adrian, who is unlikely to settle for being second fiddle. However, if the Spanish shot stopper is to depart this summer, a bid worth more than £3.5m will need to be made.
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Fitness guru takes a swipe at West Ham over brutal training regime for Andy Carroll
The outspoken coach is never scared to vice his opinions on subjects in football
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
19:10, 8 AUG 2017
Football coach and outspoken Twitter personality Raymond Verheijen has had a pop at West Ham over their apparent training regime to get Andy Carroll back to fitness. The Dutchman, who famously called David Moyes a "dinosaur" for over-training Robin van Persie when the Scotsman was in charge at Manchester United, has now taken his acid tongue out on the Hammers.
Under the watchful new West Ham of new head of medical services Gary Lewin, the injury-plagued frontman - who won't be fit for the start of the season - is undergoing a tough regime, pushing him to the absolute maximum with double training, fitness sessions and "punishing gym work" which is hoped will discover where he injury problems are coming from.
Raymond Verheijen @raymondverheije
It's worrying to see how most fitness clowns & scientific cowboys still do not understand the concept of 'fitness'.http://www.football.london/west-ham-united-fc/players/andy-carroll-undergoing-brutal-training-13444553.amp …
1:35 PM - Aug 8, 2017
Andy Carroll undergoing brutal training regime in bid to get fit for West Ham
The striker has missed far too much time injured but is making a comeback - again
football.london
15 15 Replies 28 28 Retweets 58 58 likes
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That prompted Verheijen - who quotes the football.london article on Twitter to his 44,000 followers - said on the social network: "It's worrying to see how most fitness clowns & scientific cowboys still do not understand the concept of 'fitness'." Carroll made just 18 appearances last season for West Ham as his campaign was once again ravaged by injuries. He did have a run of games a the turn of 2017 and scored four goals during that time, leading to interest from Gareth Southgate for an England recall but the striker then got injured again and the chance was gone.
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Ian Bishop Exclusive Interview: Part Two: Bish On The Current Situation At West Ham United, The Stadium Move, What The Future Might Bring And More
Moore than just a club
POSTED BY: LUKE GLANVILLE 08/08/2017
In part two of our exclusive interview with Hammers Legend Ian Bishop, we chat to the former graceful midfielder about what is currently going on in his world, the Claret & Blue world, what the future holds and much more.
During Bishop's time as a Hammer, he had the pleasure of playing under the so-called Del-Boy of football in manager Harry Redknapp. So, with the 52-year-old witnessing teammates flow in and out of the door frequently, what does he think of our summer business this summer compared to last?
"Night and day. Joe Hart, Zabaleta will get to feel the same euphoria as myself and a few others to pull on the shirts of two very special football clubs. Arnautovic is someone I have been touting for a couple of years now, and to land a natural goal getter like Hernandez makes me want the season to come sooner".
In summer 2016, we captured the likes of Simone Zaza and Jonathan Calleri, who would go onto become flops in a Hammers shirt. However, our recruitment has been visibly better in this Transfer Window, in bringing the Arnautovic's and the Chicharito's like Bish proclaimed.
Much is made in modern Football about the temperament and physicality of players intertwined with problems like cheating and diving. However, these problems were not so prevalent back in Bishop's playing days. The game was an entirely different entity back in the 1980's and 1990's, and this is what the legendary midfielder had to say about Football then and now:
"There are obvious differences," explained the former Manchester City man.
"It is so much softer now. Players have no respect for each other in my opinion. The integrity has gone. I love to watch a good fast paced game where the ref isn't conned too much but they are few and far between".
Another feature of the game that we all know and love today, is the amount of money in the fold and the fees that are being paid for such players as Paul Pogba, Romelu Lukaku and who could forget Neymar. However, in the different world of Football that existed 20 and 30-years ago, Bish was signed by Lou Macari at Upton Park for £500.000. Many Hammers fans will now wonder what a player like Ian would cost nowadays, but what does the man himself think of the amount of money in the game today?
"The price of players is only relevant to the money coming in. It is still on a scale. I do believe the player's salaries reflect this also. There is a few who I don't believe earn it, but overall athletes in other sports especially here in the states have been getting paid huge amounts for a decade before the Prem, so I have no issues with what they earn".
Among our highest earners at The London Stadium are the duo of Pedro Obiang and Manuel Lanzini, who, like Bishop did, ply their trade in the centre of the park. But what does the former graceful midfielder think about Slaven Bilic's current options in that position?
"I think it has been difficult for them with no established striker for a while for them to feed. This season will make a world of difference".
Bish was of-course referring to our striker-crises last-season, where woeful Argentine Jonathan Calleri featured throughout the closing games in the absence of Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho. This resulted in a dreadful run of form and a finish to the season to forget.
There have been rumours in the past stating that Bishop may return to the Hammers fold one day as an attacking coach, but the cult hero was quick to dismiss a return to the Premier League when we asked him about his future and what his current projects are.
"I have been working on a training aid for grass roots players. I was coaching youth players for ten years here but have hung up my coaching boots, as it is too difficult here to make the powers that be see sense.
Bish also light-heartedly added, "I play some Poker and ride my Harley" in relation to his current hobbies and past times. The comments will end the speculation and disappoint Hammers who were dreaming of a reunion for the great, but it will be a well-deserved rest in retirement for Bishop.
The final question that we asked the cult hero in our exclusive interview was about an issue that is close to the heart of every Hammer, the move to Stratford. Bish had the pleasure of playing at Upton Park in its heyday and is clearly not a fan of the controversial London Stadium.
"I am old school and believe in the old-style football stadium," testified Bish. "But it was a great place to play and we feared no one there. I miss the place like mad since moving in 98 but will always have amazing memories".
"But it was a great place to play and we feared no one there. I miss the place like mad since moving in 98 but will always have amazing memories".
The elegant midfielder clearly has fond memories of the arena in which he scored so many dazzling goals and shares the pain that is felt by many Hammers fans as it lays in ruin.
Even 19-years after he departed East-London, Ian Bishop remains a true cult hero and an all-time Hammers great. Also, a man who still clearly has an undying love for the club that he spent the majority of his career with, but overall, a footballing icon and a true gentleman.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Your first chance to see our four big summer signings in action at London Stadium is just around the corner – so make sure you don't miss out by becoming a Claret Member today!
Tickets for the home opener against Huddersfield Town are now on sale exclusively to Claret Members, and as a reward for our Members' loyal support, we're giving them the opportunity to purchase an extra ticket for this fixture, meaning they can secure up to two tickets each for the Monday night fixture.
Ticket are priced from just £15 for Under-16s and from £30 for adults.
With almost all home fixtures selling out within the Members priority window last season, we recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Book tickets here
For accessibility seating please email accessibility@westhamunited.co.uk or call 0333 030 0174 for further information
If you're not already a Claret Member, join today to get exclusive priority on all Premier League and Cup fixtures at London Stadium plus a host of additional benefits. Click here to find out more.
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7 things you probably didn't know about Sead Haksabanovic
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have completed the signing of exciting Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic on a five-year contract. Here, we find out more about the former Halmstads BK player…
Born in Swedish village of Hyltebruk, Sead Haksabanovic joined his local club Halmstads BK at the age of six
Haksabanovic made his Halmstads BK debut against IFK Norkopping in Sweden's top flight in April 2015, aged just 15 years and eleven months
The young prodigy was invited over for a trial with Manchester United in 2015, training alongside the likes of Marcus Rashford and Timothy Fosu-Mensah
He netted eight goals in 30 appearances as relegated HBK bounced back to win promotion at the first attempt via the play-offs in 2016
Haksabanovic has been fouled 48 times in 18 Allsvenskan appearances for Halmstads BK this season – the third-highest in Sweden's top-flight
The 18-year-old has also unleashed 50 shots, a figure bettered by only three other players, despite his team winning just two of their 18 league games
The teenager played age-group international football for Sweden before switching his allegiance to Montenegro earlier this year. He debuted for the country of his father's birth in a win over Armenia in June
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Hart and Zaba: We can't wait to play at London Stadium
WHUFC.com
West Ham United new boys Joe Hart and Pablo Zabaleta cannot wait to pull on a Hammers shirt at London Stadium for the first time.
The two summer signings are set to make their home debut for the Club in the Premier League fixture with Huddersfield Town on Monday 11 September at 8pm, tickets for which are now on sale to Claret Members here.
Hart and Zabaleta both know the importance of vociferous home support and are relishing what promises to be a huge night under the floodlights on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
"We know how important our home form will be this season if we are to achieve our targets, and we are all massively looking forward to our first Premier League game at London Stadium," said England goalkeeper Hart, who has arrived on a season-long loan from Manchester City.
"We start against Huddersfield Town under the floodlights and it's going to be big game in front of a big TV audience. We all want to kick-off with a win and the support of the fans will give us a big boost on the night.
"I'm absolutely sure it will be a complete sell out and I'm told it will be completely full of Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members, which just shows how big our club is and the potential we have got."
Unlike Hart, who spent last season with Italian club Torino, Zabaleta has already experienced London Stadium for himself, appearing in Manchester City's FA Cup victory at West Ham's new home in January.
As someone who has faced the Hammers 12 times previously overall, the right-back knows the atmosphere the Claret and Blue Army can generate, and is looking forward to experiencing it again next month.
"I visited London Stadium twice last season and I was impressed by the size of the ground and the fantastic noise created by the West Ham fans," said the No5.
"We know we need to be united this season and that we need to make London Stadium a real fortress, and the fans can definitely help us do that.
"I am excited and looking forward to playing at London Stadium in our opening game, for sure. Pulling on the shirt and playing in front of nearly 60,000 fans is definitely one of the big reasons I signed for West Ham United."
Claret Members can purchase two seats each for the home Premier League opener with Huddersfield now – the first chance to see the Club's five summer signings in action on home turf.
Tickets for the visit of the newly-promoted Terriers now on sale exclusively to Claret Members, priced from just £15 for U16s and from £30 for Adults.
With almost all home fixtures selling out within the Members priority window last season, we recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.
For Accessibility seating please email accessibility@westhamunited.co.uk or call 0333 030 0174 for further information.
If you're not already a Claret Member, join here today to get exclusive priority on all Premier League and Cup fixtures at London Stadium plus a host of additional benefits.
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Andre Ayew: Our actions will speak louder than words
WHUFC.com
Andre Ayew knows a thing or two about playing under pressure.
The Ghana star has been capped more than 75 times by his country, appeared at seven major tournaments, featured in the UEFA Champions League and is the son of a three-time African Footballer of the Year.
This summer, having signed four experienced internationals, expectations have risen sharply that West Ham United will enjoy a successful 2017/18 Premier League season – but Ayew has cautioned against getting carried away by the Hammers' potential.
"I think we have the squad, the players and the quality to be able to do something good, but I think a lot of other teams also have great players and great squads, so we need to be calm and work hard," said Ayew, who won four trophies and Player of the Year honours with former club Marseille and has twice inspired Ghana to the Africa Cup of Nations final.
"We know what we want and the gaffer [Slaven Bilic] has given his directions and we are following them. It's only with time and games that you can start to feel what you can do.
"Last season, I wouldn't say it was a bad season but we had a lot of ups and downs and we only finished one point away from eighth position. We need to work hard, stay calm and have the belief that we can do something great."
I think we have the squad, the players and the quality to be able to do something good, but I think a lot of other teams also have great players and great squads, so we need to be calm and work hard
West Ham kick-off the new Premier League campaign with a trip to Manchester United on Sunday, the first of three straight away games to start the new season.
With the Hammers also journeying to Southampton and Newcastle United before welcoming Huddersfield Town to London Stadium on 11 September, forward Ayew is anxious that people do not let their emotions run away with them before the season is even a month old.
On the other hand, the African says a decent return from those three away matches will set the Hammers up nicely ahead of the visit of the newly-promoted Terriers.
"We shouldn't really talk too much," said the No20. "It's difficult for us to start the season already with three away games so we need to see how we start the season and from there we can start to know where we are.
"The best way for us is to start well and if we get a good start I think we're going to do a good season. That's football. When you start well, it puts you in a positive mindset and gives you the confidence to believe you can do something.
"If we have a good start this year, we have experienced players and good young players so we have a good blend. I believe the gaffer knows exactly what he wants, we are right behind him, so we are going to push and see if we can finish as high as we can because the Club and the fans deserve to be smiling at the end of the season."
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Hammers Ladies appoint Amy Cooper as captain
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies have appointed Amy Cooper (pictured right) as captain and Amber Stobbs (pictured left) as vice-captain for the 2017/18 season.
The pair were presented with their armbands by West Ham United Ladies Ambassador Michail Antonio at the Rush Green training ground recently.
Cooper takes on the captaincy for the second successive season, having made a hugely positive impression last year, and is looking forward to an exciting campaign ahead.
The 24-year-old central midfielder said: "I am delighted to be selected as captain for West Ham United for the second season running. I feel that we have a really hard working and motivated team this year, with a number of new signings increasing the competition for positions, which will only help us improve on what we had last season.
"This season we are striving to win some silverware - playing how we have over pre-season, with a few improvements in weaker areas, I am really excited about what we can achieve."
Vice-captain Amber, also 24, joined the Club this summer from Women's Super League side Everton and added: "I am very pleased, and surprised, to be appointed vice-captain.
"During pre-season training, I have been trying to get my experience across, working out how different players react to different communication, and hopefully showing leadership qualities.
"It's a role that I have held in the past at other clubs growing up, and I am honoured to have been considered for it here at West Ham."
First team manager Greg De Carnys said: "I am absolutely delighted to appoint Amy and Amber as captain and vice-captain this season.
"Amy, who was Club captain last season, has a great personality and naturally the other girls do see her as a leader on and off the pitch.
"She also epitomises what we are about here, in how hard she has worked at her game and consequently in the progress she has made as a player over the last ten months.
"Amber has come in and settled brilliantly into the group. She obviously has the respect of the other players because of the way she approaches her game and I think she can be a great influence for some of the younger and less experienced players we have in the team.
"We have a fantastic bunch of girls and they are very well represented by Amy and Amber."
General Manager Karen Ray added: "Amy and Amber are both great leaders on and off the pitch, they conduct themselves in ways which others aspire to. They both demonstrate great professionalism, ambition and a desire to take West Ham United Ladies to the top of the Women's game.
"Their interaction with all age groups throughout the Ladies set up shows how effective they both are as role models to players who are on their pathway.
"We are proud to have two hardworking, ambitious Ladies leading the way as we embark on the 2017/18 season."
The West Ham United Ladies kick off their FA Women's Premier League campaign away at Gillingham on Sunday 20 August.
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'Talented, technical and humble' – Sead Haksabanovic in profile
WHUFC.com
West Ham United made exciting teenager Sead Haksabanovic the Club's fifth summer signing this week.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has already made 70 senior appearances for Swedish Allsvenskan club Halmstad BK and earned his first senior international cap for Montenegro in June.
Here, we find out more the Hammers new boy…
'An exceptional talent'
Halmstad BK chairman Tony Karlsson has watched Haksabanovic rise from teenage prodigy to potential Premier League star in the space of three years.
It was Karlsson who gave his blessing to the midfielder's move from the west coast of Sweden to the east end of London, where he expects Haksabanovic to continue to fulfil his undoubted promise.
"Sead has been with since he was six-years-old and has been successful in our academy," said Karlsson, who took charge at HBK in 2015, the same year Haksabanovic made his first-team debut at the age of 15.
"He is an exceptional talent and we as a club are very happy that he gets the chance to come to a Premier League club.
"I think he is a player who not only has talent but also works very hard. His awareness of the game is one that few can match and it has taken him all the way to the Premier League."
A young man in demand
Karlsson revealed that Halmstad and Haksabanovic himself turned down interest from leading clubs in Italy, Spain, Belgium and Turkey to hone his game in Sweden's top flight.
After inspiring HBK to promotion last season, when he started all 30 league games, scored eight goals and registered eight assists, he is again Halmstad's leading scorer this term.
"He has raised his game to another level this season and that he chose to stay gave him the opportunity to go to one of the best leagues in the world," Karlsson observed. "This is so much bigger in all ways.
"West Ham have a coach [in Slaven Bilic] who does not care about age but about the player's attitude and talent. In addition, they play 4-3-3 which should fit Sead well. The Club also seems very well organized and family-oriented, despite its size.
"It's a great move to go from Allsvenskan to the Premier League, but Sead has the right conditions to handle it."
A model of consistency
Despite being just 16 at the start of the 2016 campaign – Sweden's league season runs from April to October – Haksabanovic's outstanding displays earned him Players' Player of the Year honours.
The youngster has started Halmstad's last 52 league matches, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists, and has not missed a first-team game since August 2015.
A model of consistency, he started all 30 Superettan (second tier) matches for Halmstad, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists, meaning he played a direct role in 15 (or 34.8 per cent) of his team's 43 league goals!
Haksabanovic has continued to shine in 2017, despite his club side winning just two of their 18 Allsvenskan matches, playing all but 25 minutes, scoring four goals and leading his team in shots, dribbles and key passes. A hard-working player, he also ranks second in tackles attempted!
When it comes to the Swedish top flight as a whole, the 18-year-old ranks fifth in shots, first in shots from outside the penalty area, ninth in dribbles and 12th in key passes.
Statistically, Haksabanovic is a left winger, having started 14 of Halmstad's 18 league matches in that position, but he is two-footed and is as likely to cut inside and shoot as he is to take his man on using his pace and technical ability.
'He has a special feeling about the way he plays the game'
Jan-Owe Wikstrom is the Halmstad BK correspondent for regional newspaper and website Hallandsposten.
Wikstrom has watched Haksabanovic develop from the boy who broke a club record when he debuted aged 15 years and eleven months in April 2015, into a man whose skills were coveted by clubs all over Europe.
YouTube clips of the teenager show him repeatedly streaking past defenders before showing calm and composure to either set up a teammate or score himself – qualities the reporter confirms he has in abundance.
"Sead is a very technical player, with fantastic speed and close control with the ball at his feet," Wikstrom told whufc.com. "He can really play. He knows what he will do with the ball long before he actually does it and has a special feeling about the way he plays the game. He understands the game.
"Sead made his debut at the age of 15 but he was a player who looked like he had played for five or ten years in the league. He is a very mature young man and is not a man with big words – what we would call humble.
"He may not be so strong physically, but he is working very hard on his physical side and will get stronger as the season continues.
"I don't expect him to start for West Ham straight away, but I can see him being a substitute this season and making an impact."
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Young Hammers side beaten at Billericay
WHUFC.com
A young West Ham United XI were beaten 3-1 by Isthmian League side Billericay Town on Tuesday night in the Club's final pre-season clash of the summer.
The Hammers, managed by Terry Westley and consisting of both U23 and U18 players, could not recover after their Essex hosts scored twice in as many minutes at the end of the first half through Billy Bricknell and Jermaine Pennant, though Dan Kemp did half the deficit in the second half.
Sam Deering scored a third Town to seal the win in the final 15 minutes.
Premier League journeyman Pennant – who signed earlier this week – was one of a number of recognisable names in the home team's lineup, which included former Hammers Paul Konchesky and Leo Chambers.
In the opening half an hour at a packed AGP Arena, there was little to get excited about.
For the Hammers, Martin Samuelsen had the first attempt, marauding forward into space but shooting low and straight at the keeper from 25 yards.
With both sides keeping things tight at the back, action inside the penalty areas was limited, though Louis Theophanous did drag a left-footed attempt wide just inside the box.
Suddenly though, on the half hour mark, the game sprung to life. First, Hammers keeper Nathan Trott was forced into action as he sprung superbly to his left to keep out Deering's goalbound header.
The hosts' new signing Pennant fired well over with the goal at his mercy from the rebound.
The former Arsenal and Liverpool winger played his part in the Billericay goal just second later, however. Nodding Theophanous' centre back across goal, centre-forward Bricknell was on hand to find the back of the net with his head from inside the six-yard-box.
And a quick second was to come for Glenn Tamplin's team. Architect of the first Pennant this time turned scorer, playing a neat one-two with first goalscorer Bricknell on the edge of the box before lashing into the top left-hand corner past Trott's despairing dive.
And before the break, there were two more chances for Town, as defender Joe Ellul – up from the back for a series of set-pieces – was first denied by Trott before heading over from close range.
Early in the second period, Westley changed the Hammers' shape, introducing Grady Diangana from the bench.
And the attacking midfielder soon set about getting his team back into the game. On the hour mark, he did just that; crossing from the left for Kemp to smash home from close range.
The visitors continued to battle hard and another substitute – Korrey Henry – tested the keeper from a tight angle shortly after.
But as West Ham pushed for an equaliser, the home team had other ideas. With just under a quarter of an hour left to play, the result was put beyond doubt.
Left-back Konchesky lifted a clever ball over the top which allowed Deering, continuing his run from midfield, to knock simply past Trott in goal.
Billericay Town: Julian, Chambers, Konchesky, Ellul, Deering, Evans, Davies, Bricknell (Modeste 55), Theophanous (Robinson 55), Pennant (Urquhart 55), Foley (Cunnington 55).
Subs not used: Payne, Swaine, Robinson.
Goals: Bricknell 32, Pennant 34, Deering 76
West Ham United XI: Trott, Pike (Greenidge 54), Pask (Okotcha 67), Akinola, Neufville (Diangana 46), Coventry (Henry 46), Powell, Kemp, Trialist, Samuelsen (Hector-Ingram 61), Trialist.
Sub not used: Forde
Goals: Kemp 60
Bookings: Akinola 87
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Haksabanovic: A Swedish point of view
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 8th August 2017
By: Staff Writer
Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic became West Ham's latest signing yesterday. So we reached out to one of our Swedish Forum members for the lowdown on the 18-year-old, who cost the Hammers in the region of £3million.
"Born in 1999, he was regarded as one of our prime prospects for the future," wrote KUMB member Kasi. "He was born in the same year as two other golden prospects in Alexander Isak - who went to Dortmund for roughly €10m - and Mattias Svanberg, who plays for Malmö. "However it was quite an upset when he chose to play for Montenegro instead of Sweden, despite featuring in Under 17 and Under 19 internationals for Sweden. "He's a very gifted, attacking midfielder with good technique, pace and a good shot. In my view, the main barrier to becoming a success the Premier League or not are his physical attributes. "He's also a leader and carried Halmstad BK to promotion last year. This year, he has been their best player by a mile in Allsvenskan. All their offensive plays goes through him, which he has been able to do a more than decent job with so far in the league."
And whilst Kasi is unsure whether Haksabanovic will make the grade in England and the Premier League he is certain that either way, West Ham are unlikely to lose out financially. "£3million is not a huge sum for us, but for Halmstad it's heaven," he added. "I'm sceptical that he will make it in the Premier League, at least for the next coming season or two. "But IF he becomes be the player he has the potential to be, then West Ham will make far more than £3m when they sell him. "I should stress that Haksabanovic doesn't see West Ham as the last stop, he wants to go to a better and bigger club as soon as he's ready (in his mind), so we better keep that in mind. "But when everyone thought he would leave for free this winter, he signed a new long term contract with Halmstad - which they are certainly very grateful for today."
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WILL THE REAL SLAVEN BILIC PLEASE STAND UP?
By Iain Dale 8 Aug 2017 at 08:00 273 comments
WTID
Guest Post by Rugby Irons
We all bring a different view to games we watch and then we generally all disagree. However the recent poor showings have unified our views. So,what is it we don't like? Well here's my view as if I were our Manager.
Well the problem of injuries still besets us. So I have brought in the best alternative with Gary Lewin. No sooner as he arrives the list goes up. I had hoped that by taking the whole squad away to concentrate on the team, rather than chasing the mighty dollar, I could get the team to shape up as I wanted them to. In reality I ended up with most of the stars absent, those fit ones left and the youths, to make up the numbers. So my master plan went out of the window. Even the fitness wasn't a huge improvement. But then to make any plan to work you have everyone on board. Cue your star injured centre forward on the lash in Spain. Nice.
So it's down to the preseason games and with the youths given their chance (presumably to ensure no more injuries) and they certainly took it. Those who doubted these players would be enjoying their humble pie but again they are short of what the owners want and lack experience. Spurs, Everton and Saints, the other teams around us have blooded kids and done well from it but I'm not sure the owners want to risk it.
The results went against the team but at this point this is where I worry. I couldn't see what the plan was. What had the team been working on in the last three weeks? We lacked any cohesion. If the point of having Hernandez is to get a overflowing front line to supply passes into him to score, with the others adding to the goal tally, then we are miles off. We hardly had a shot and Martinez scored off his only shot. You can make all the injury excuses you like but Carroll and Sakho just can't be considered.
Against Altona, we were a shambles. Reid should be ashamed he let the team down and made it a farce. The standard of crossing was abysmal and in terms of a shape it wasn't there again. You look at the defence and they don't look a unit at all.
So you go up against Citeh and every alarm bell is ringing. Now for SB he is on a hiding to nothing before a ball is kicked and he wasted the opportunity to give us hope. This isn't about the second gear dominance of the game or the goals, but the wholly negative performance. Let's be clear if you go 4-5-1 then you are defending. No problem with that if you can counter. We can't.
So the strict line of five across the middle stood and watched Toure and DeBruyne split them as the Citeh had five players behind our midfield, attacking our back line. You just can't leave it if it isn't working but SB stuck with it. Changing players didn't do anything. Why didn't SB just push up the back line ten yards and defend from the 30 not the 18yard box? He put Rice on as a holding player, fair enough, and then press them back a bit. We had lost the game but he could have looked at his attack instead of his leaky defence. Ninety minutes of negative play and just one tame shot on target all game.
That's not good form. Now don't be fooled into arguing it was against Citeh.This should have been about what we were about. For me this has been a disastrous preseason because we haven't progressed and with a week to go we are in a poor place. Players coming back will now be rushed into action and the ever rotating injuries will continue.
So what do I think of the squad with a week to go:
Hart : For all his noise his feet aren't good enough. Playing out from our backline is a recipe for disaster and in his first game he now knows why Adrian was told to pack it in and Hart must be the same.
Adrian: Proved his point with strong performances and looks the part to me.
Byram: Just not big enough and doesn't create or do enough.
Zabaleta: Looks slow and heavy but his experience makes the difference. He has still impressed.
Cresswell: Looks way off the pace now. Can hardly cross a ball enough times and being totally one footed makes him weaker. Also not strong enough.
Arthur: Looks more than just a defender but creates and crosses and has right attitude.
Fonte: Way below the standard required playing for us. He just isn't quick or alert enough.
Ginge: He is what he is but you get a 100% of it.
Reid: If he strops all the time his play suffers.He should be the leader at the back but he's not at it.
Burke: Did enough to be kept and developed . His shipping out shows a weakness in the club policy.
Oxford: Why isn't he being promoted from within. Hope Germany is a positive and not a cover up.
Rice: He's 17 and if anyone needed loaning out it was him. He is behind the others in development terms. He hasn't played at centre half, or much at least, just thrown in as a make weight midfielder, which he has taken too.The beauty of being young and fearless.
Ogbonna: Concentration levels not there since coming back but this will improve.
Noble: Becoming Kevin Nolan, which just isn't fair on him. Needs to be the Noble of old.
Cullen: Has done everything required and still gets shipped out. Ridiculous.
Obiang: Has been quiet but effective. I expect him to step up immediately once we start for real.
Eddy: Hasnt impressed but hasn't had the quality around him. Will improve because he is getting games.
Koyoute. Massive loss. The real engine. Difficult to do preseason without your two best players.
Lanzini: Same as Cheikh. He will be pivotal. Needs to be protected. We have limited creativity without him.
Arnie: Has really impressed. Like Ant but the other side. Needs to up his crossing quality though.
Ant: Really need him back. His presence alone makes a difference.
Snod : He just doesn't have it. His luck has run out and nothing goes his way. It happens.
Ayew: His work rate created things and is always lively.
Carroll: Wasted talent of his own choosing. Leave him on the beach.
Sakho: Who knows, but of late another waster.
Holland: Looked good and positive.
Martinez : To score from what he has had as service is remarkable enough. Looks a good prospect and as our second striker he will do us ok.
Hernandez: His record and quality will keep us up at least if we get him the ball.
So on paper, and fit, we look good . On the injury table we look weak all over. Without a style and pattern to get balls into their box,for the front line, you then have to worry about what defence we put out. I don't normally do the player prediction because it's more about how the players respond to the role they are put in. We need to be stronger at the back and lining up on the 30 yard one not 18.
If we are going one holder, two central and two wide then we must press on and push them back. With one up they must be getting the ball in the final 20 yards not on the half way line. And this is where I take issue with Slaven. Stop being so cagey. Look at your (fit) squad and its an offensive team, even if it's a counter attacking set up we have to take a positive attitude. If you go positive we will be right behind you. Be Slaven not Sam.
And so to conclude, if the plan is to keep the ball on the floor and play counter football then the players are there to do it. But and it's a big but , you have to be positive, especially at home. We could be in trouble by the time our first home game comes, equally we could be top of the League. All things are always possible watching West Ham. So as many of you say, preseason doesn't matter, and of course they are right. So with a week to go I'm more worried by the injury list and attitude than recent results. I bet £10 for us to win the league. Well you have to, absolutely nothing is ever certain. I look forward to your comments and keeping the faith. Long live the Boleyn.
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Diafra Sakho could continue West Ham comeback against Billericay Town
The Hammers striker got an hour under his belt at the weekend
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
11:30, 8 AUG 2017UPDATED12:50, 8 AUG 2017
Diafra Sakho could continue his comeback from injury later tonight (Tuesday) when the West Ham U23s take on Billericay Town in a pre-season friendly.
The Senegal striker got an hour of game time in a 3-2 win over Spurs for the U23s on Saturday and is expected to step up his rehab once again at the AGP Arena in Essex as the youngsters continue their preparations for the PL2 Division One campaign. It's not yet known how long Sakho will get on the pitch but it's unlikely to be 90 minutes.
Winston Reid however - who played alongside Sakho at Spurs on Saturday - won't be playing in Billericay as he is back with the first team and pushing for inclusion for the Premier League opener at Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
The Hammers have tentatively pencilled in Sakho for a return to first team action on September 11, the first home game of the new season when West Ham take on Huddersfield under the lights at the London Stadium on a Monday night.
Sakho saw last season wrecked by back and hamstring injuries as he made just three appearances all season long. He scored in one of them - the 1-1 Premier League draw at Old Trafford - before he picked up his serious hamstring problem and was ruled out for the remainder of the season.
The U23s have won two of their five pre-season friendlies so far this summer as Terry Westley's side prepare for the opening PL2 fixture of the season next Friday (August 11) when the youngsters face last season's title winners, Everton, in Dagenham.
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WEST HAM REJECT PALACE'S ADRIAN BID
LUKE OSMAN @LukeOsmanRS
ReadWestHam
West Ham have turned down a bid from Crystal Palace for their out of favour goalkeeper Adrian. According to a report from the Daily Mail today, the Spaniard was the subject of a £3.5 million offer from the Eagles. Palace are evidently keen to land a new goalkeeper this summer, with Frank de Boer keen to make changes to his personnel, but they will need to up their offer if they are to stand a chance of beating others to the signing of Adrian.
Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for experienced Spanish goalkeeper, and Palace may need to act fast in revising their offer. The arrival of Joe Hart at the London Stadium appears to have spelled the end for Adrian, who is unlikely to settle for being second fiddle. However, if the Spanish shot stopper is to depart this summer, a bid worth more than £3.5m will need to be made.
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Fitness guru takes a swipe at West Ham over brutal training regime for Andy Carroll
The outspoken coach is never scared to vice his opinions on subjects in football
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
19:10, 8 AUG 2017
Football coach and outspoken Twitter personality Raymond Verheijen has had a pop at West Ham over their apparent training regime to get Andy Carroll back to fitness. The Dutchman, who famously called David Moyes a "dinosaur" for over-training Robin van Persie when the Scotsman was in charge at Manchester United, has now taken his acid tongue out on the Hammers.
Under the watchful new West Ham of new head of medical services Gary Lewin, the injury-plagued frontman - who won't be fit for the start of the season - is undergoing a tough regime, pushing him to the absolute maximum with double training, fitness sessions and "punishing gym work" which is hoped will discover where he injury problems are coming from.
Raymond Verheijen @raymondverheije
It's worrying to see how most fitness clowns & scientific cowboys still do not understand the concept of 'fitness'.http://www.football.london/west-ham-united-fc/players/andy-carroll-undergoing-brutal-training-13444553.amp …
1:35 PM - Aug 8, 2017
Andy Carroll undergoing brutal training regime in bid to get fit for West Ham
The striker has missed far too much time injured but is making a comeback - again
football.london
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That prompted Verheijen - who quotes the football.london article on Twitter to his 44,000 followers - said on the social network: "It's worrying to see how most fitness clowns & scientific cowboys still do not understand the concept of 'fitness'." Carroll made just 18 appearances last season for West Ham as his campaign was once again ravaged by injuries. He did have a run of games a the turn of 2017 and scored four goals during that time, leading to interest from Gareth Southgate for an England recall but the striker then got injured again and the chance was gone.
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Ian Bishop Exclusive Interview: Part Two: Bish On The Current Situation At West Ham United, The Stadium Move, What The Future Might Bring And More
Moore than just a club
POSTED BY: LUKE GLANVILLE 08/08/2017
In part two of our exclusive interview with Hammers Legend Ian Bishop, we chat to the former graceful midfielder about what is currently going on in his world, the Claret & Blue world, what the future holds and much more.
During Bishop's time as a Hammer, he had the pleasure of playing under the so-called Del-Boy of football in manager Harry Redknapp. So, with the 52-year-old witnessing teammates flow in and out of the door frequently, what does he think of our summer business this summer compared to last?
"Night and day. Joe Hart, Zabaleta will get to feel the same euphoria as myself and a few others to pull on the shirts of two very special football clubs. Arnautovic is someone I have been touting for a couple of years now, and to land a natural goal getter like Hernandez makes me want the season to come sooner".
In summer 2016, we captured the likes of Simone Zaza and Jonathan Calleri, who would go onto become flops in a Hammers shirt. However, our recruitment has been visibly better in this Transfer Window, in bringing the Arnautovic's and the Chicharito's like Bish proclaimed.
Much is made in modern Football about the temperament and physicality of players intertwined with problems like cheating and diving. However, these problems were not so prevalent back in Bishop's playing days. The game was an entirely different entity back in the 1980's and 1990's, and this is what the legendary midfielder had to say about Football then and now:
"There are obvious differences," explained the former Manchester City man.
"It is so much softer now. Players have no respect for each other in my opinion. The integrity has gone. I love to watch a good fast paced game where the ref isn't conned too much but they are few and far between".
Another feature of the game that we all know and love today, is the amount of money in the fold and the fees that are being paid for such players as Paul Pogba, Romelu Lukaku and who could forget Neymar. However, in the different world of Football that existed 20 and 30-years ago, Bish was signed by Lou Macari at Upton Park for £500.000. Many Hammers fans will now wonder what a player like Ian would cost nowadays, but what does the man himself think of the amount of money in the game today?
"The price of players is only relevant to the money coming in. It is still on a scale. I do believe the player's salaries reflect this also. There is a few who I don't believe earn it, but overall athletes in other sports especially here in the states have been getting paid huge amounts for a decade before the Prem, so I have no issues with what they earn".
Among our highest earners at The London Stadium are the duo of Pedro Obiang and Manuel Lanzini, who, like Bishop did, ply their trade in the centre of the park. But what does the former graceful midfielder think about Slaven Bilic's current options in that position?
"I think it has been difficult for them with no established striker for a while for them to feed. This season will make a world of difference".
Bish was of-course referring to our striker-crises last-season, where woeful Argentine Jonathan Calleri featured throughout the closing games in the absence of Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho. This resulted in a dreadful run of form and a finish to the season to forget.
There have been rumours in the past stating that Bishop may return to the Hammers fold one day as an attacking coach, but the cult hero was quick to dismiss a return to the Premier League when we asked him about his future and what his current projects are.
"I have been working on a training aid for grass roots players. I was coaching youth players for ten years here but have hung up my coaching boots, as it is too difficult here to make the powers that be see sense.
Bish also light-heartedly added, "I play some Poker and ride my Harley" in relation to his current hobbies and past times. The comments will end the speculation and disappoint Hammers who were dreaming of a reunion for the great, but it will be a well-deserved rest in retirement for Bishop.
The final question that we asked the cult hero in our exclusive interview was about an issue that is close to the heart of every Hammer, the move to Stratford. Bish had the pleasure of playing at Upton Park in its heyday and is clearly not a fan of the controversial London Stadium.
"I am old school and believe in the old-style football stadium," testified Bish. "But it was a great place to play and we feared no one there. I miss the place like mad since moving in 98 but will always have amazing memories".
"But it was a great place to play and we feared no one there. I miss the place like mad since moving in 98 but will always have amazing memories".
The elegant midfielder clearly has fond memories of the arena in which he scored so many dazzling goals and shares the pain that is felt by many Hammers fans as it lays in ruin.
Even 19-years after he departed East-London, Ian Bishop remains a true cult hero and an all-time Hammers great. Also, a man who still clearly has an undying love for the club that he spent the majority of his career with, but overall, a footballing icon and a true gentleman.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Daily WHUFC News - 8th August 2017
West Ham sign Montenegro international Sead Haksabanovic
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic.
The exciting 18-year-old joins the Hammers on a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee from Swedish club Halmstads BK, where he became the second-youngest player in Allsvenskan league history in April 2015.
Blessed with searing pace, outstanding technical ability and vision and an eye for goal, Haksabanovic has already made 70 first-team appearances and made his senior international debut in May.
Now, the Sweden-born player will bring his wide range of talents to the Hammers, London Stadium and the Premier League.
"I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," said Haksabanovic, who becomes the third former Halmstads player to join the Hammers after Sweden stars Niclas Alexandersson and Fredrik Ljungberg.
"West Ham is a big club and it is a nice feeling to have signed. The move happened quite fast - we heard that they wanted me, so I was interested to hear the plan for me and when I did I was very pleased.
"I am an attacking player, I like to dribble and shoot, but I work hard for the team. I am really looking forward to getting started, I have watched quite a few West Ham games in the Premier League and I can see that they have some great players and great fans.
"Now I just want to get used to being with the team and then hopefully play some games at some point next season."
Haksabanovic was born in the small village of Hyltebruk 35 miles north east of Halmstad, joining the club at the age of six in 2006.
Nine years later, he became HBK's youngest-ever player when he debuted at IFK Norrkoping in the Allsvenskan on 9 April 2015, aged just 15 years, eleven months and six days.
Halmstad were relegated in 2015, but Haksabanovic's eight goals and seven assists in 30 appearances saw them promoted from the Superettan at the first attempt.
Back in the top flight, the teenager has continued to impress this season, starting all 18 Allsvenskan fixtures and scoring four goals, despite playing for a team which has won just two league matches.
Internationally, Haksabanovic featured for Sweden at U17 and U19 level before switching his allegiance to Montengero – the country of his father's birth – earlier this year.
A senior debut arrived on 10 June in Podgorica, when he played the final six minutes of his nation's 4-1 FIFA World Cup qualifying win over Armenia – a victory which kept them second in Group E.
Everyone at West Ham United would like to welcome Sead to London Stadium the best of luck as he embarks on a new career in Claret and Blue.
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Carabao Cup second round draw details
WHUFC.com
In the event that West Ham United are drawn at home in Round Two of the Carabao Cup then they will be given special dispensation by the EFL Board to play the fixture at the opposition's venue, due to a previously agreed arrangement that London Stadium was to stage the 2017 IAAF World Championships in August.
If the draw dictates this is required, then the EFL Board will determine a level of compensation to be paid by West Ham to the opposing club. No further 2017/18 Carabao Cup ties will be affected in the event that the Hammers progress in the competition and are drawn at home.
An EFL spokesman said: "The Board of the EFL has carefully considered a request from West Ham United and, given the circumstances they faced when relocating to their new stadium, felt it was wholly appropriate to agree to a fixture reversal."
The Carabao Cup Round Two draw will take place live on Sky Sports News on Thursday 10 August 2017, following the Bury versus Sunderland televised Round One tie.
The 13 Premier League clubs not competing in UEFA competitions will enter the competition at Round Two, along with Hull City and Middlesbrough from the Sky Bet Championship.
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Byram: We'll definitely be looking to finish in the top half
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram has set a top-ten target for West Ham United.
The right-back arrived in east London in January 2016 helped the Hammers to seventh in the Premier League just a few months later. Byram's first full season in Claret and Blue was less successful position-wise, as Slaven Bilic's side ended the 2016/17 campaign in eleventh – albeit 17 points worse off than they had been a year previously.
As he prepares to begin his third season as a West Ham player, the No22 pointed to the summer signings of Pablo Zabaleta, Joe Hart, Marko Arnautovic and Chicharito as four real reasons for optimism.
"I think the signings we've made show the ambition of the Club," said Byram. "We've got a great squad and we'll definitely be looking to finish in the top half of the table and see how well we can do."
One of those four transfer window captures, Zabaleta, will battle Byram for the starting position on the right side of Slaven Bilic's defence.
However, with different qualities – Zabaleta has vast experience and tactical nous, while Byram has pace and a relentless willingness to get forward – the 23-year-old knows both will likely be called on by the Croatian during the upcoming campaign.
"Every player is going to have competition in a top team and West ham are a top club, so we've got competition all over the pitch," he observed. "For me, I've just got to keep working hard and try to impress the manager and get in the team."
Byram featured in all six of West Ham's pre-season matches, having returned to Rush Green early following his summer holiday, and he is hoping that hard work pays off in the shape of game-time in the opening Premier League fixture of 2017/18 at Manchester United.
The Hammers head to Old Trafford on Sunday on the back of a 3-0 pre-season defeat by Manchester City in Iceland, taking the number of goals conceded in those six matches to ten, and Byram has joined the chorus of voices calling for a defensive improvement.
"We were obviously disappointed with the result and we knew we were in for a tough test against a top team, but it's the sort of challenge we needed before the Premier League starts next weekend," he confirmed.
"We've let in a few goals that we are not too pleased about. Manchester United have similar quality and are up there and will be challenging this year, but we've also made some good signings so we want to group together and put in a good performance."
West Ham's opening Premier League fixture at Manchester will be screened live by Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League from 3.30pm on Sunday 13 August.
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Loan watch: Cullen and Burke debut for Bolton
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen and Reece Burke both made their Bolton Wanderers debuts at the end of the week which saw them move on loan to the Macron Stadium.
The Trotters took on Leeds United in their Championship opener on Sunday, but were beaten 3-2 in an entertaining clash in the north west.
Hammers midfielder Cullen, who impressed in League One on loan at Bradford City last campaign, started the match for Phil Parkinson's men, but the visitors took the lead early on when Kalvin Phillips found the back of the net after seven minutes.
The division's 2016/17 top goalscorer Chris Wood then doubled Leeds' lead to complete a disastrous first half an hour of the season for Bolton.
Gary Madine pulled one back with six minutes remaining in the opening period, but Phillips was on hand to double his career Championship goal-tally in less than a half of football when he tapped home before the break.
An Adam Le Fondre penalty gave the hosts hope in the second half, but Wanderers – who handed Burke a debut from the bench in the 53rd minute – could not equalise.
Parkinson's outfit have an opportunity to bounce back immediately on Wednesday when they take on Crewe Alexandra in the Carabao Cup first round.
Meanwhile, Borussia Monchengladbach took on Leicester City in their final pre-season clash of the campaign on Friday, though Reece Oxford missed out with an ankle problem.
The Foxes ran out 2-1 winners, with Jamie Vardy bagging a brace to turn the game around after Thorgan Hazard had given the German side the lead early in the second half.
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Westley's youngsters ready for Billericay clash
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley sees Tuesday night's clash against Billericay Town as a final chance for his U23 players to cement a spot in the starting XI before the league season kicks-off on Friday.
The Premier League 2 outfit travel to the AGP Arena to face the Isthmian League club in their last pre-season fixture of the campaign before Everton visit Dagenham and Redbridge later this week.
The youngsters have faced a number of tough friendly tests already, having taken on the likes of Football League sides Colchester United and Barnet, and with the number of experienced heads in the Blues' side, Tuesday is likely to be no different.
Former Hammer Paul Konchesky is a key player for the hosts, while ex-Tottenham Hotspur man Jamie O'Hara is club captain. Former Premier League journeyman Jermaine Pennant also signed for the club this summer.
Hammers boss Westley acknowledged the game will be a tricky one, but challenged his players to prove themselves before the league campaign begins three days later.
He said: "It will be a hard game against Billericay, but we are looking at it as a real chance for some players to prove themselves for a final time this pre-season when we play on Tuesday.
"It's a chance to try and get a spot in the starting XI for when we kick-off our league campaign against Everton on Friday at Dagenham.
"It will be a game where those players who have been away with the first team this pre-season, they'll get to play with the group for a first time this summer, which is something we haven't had.
"We played Spurs at the weekend too, which was a good measure of where we are, so we're looking forward to this last friendly."
The Hammers have had a positive pre-season in full, beating National League Dagenham and Redbridge 2-1 after narrow defeats to Colchester and Barnet.
They then travelled to Slovakia to take on two local sides, and after a defeat followed by a win in mainland Europe, Westley was pleased with the trip.
"It was a really great trip in Slovakia for us," the Academy Director continued. "We had the players working in the morning and in the afternoon, and then they were doing analysis work in the evening.
"It was great to have everyone together for that. It was a full-on, seven day programme and we had two very good games in great stadiums with great pitches, which was very important to us.
"We were really pleased with the second game in particular, with the manner in which we played."
Supporters can purchase tickets at the turnstiles at the AGP Arena on Tuesday, and kick-off is at 7:45pm.
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Sead Haksabanovic: West Ham sign teenager from Halmstads BK
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United have signed teenage attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic from Swedish club Halmstads BK for an undisclosed fee. The 18-year-old, who cost a reported £2.7m, has agreed a five-year contract. The Montenegro player made his debut in Sweden's top flight in April 2015 when aged just 15 - the second-youngest ever in that league - and has already made more than 70 first-team appearances. "I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," he said.
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Carabao Cup: West Ham to play away tie after World Athletics Championships
BBC.co.uk
West Ham have been given special dispensation to play their Carabao Cup second-round tie away from home as London Stadium will still not be ready to host football matches. The Hammers already had permission to travel away for their opening three games of the Premier League season. London Stadium is currently hosting the World Athletics Championships. West Ham will have to pay compensation to their opponents if they are drawn at home and the tie is switched. Home and away clubs in the EFL Cup split gate receipts equally.
The World Athletics Championships event finishes on 13 August, with seating and branding needing to be changed before the Hammers move back into the 57,000-capacity stadium. The EFL Cup second-round draw takes place live on Thursday, 10 August, with the 13 Premier League clubs who have not qualified for European competitions entering the draw.
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THE CAUTIOUS WATCHER ON THE TRANSFER WINDOW
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 AUGUST 2017 AT 10:34PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @StevenMcCarthy9
This window is one that I am struggling to really come to terms with, why? Because I have no idea whether to be optimistic or apprehensive for the season ahead. In my opinion we are still 3 or 4 signings away from competing for a top 8 or even 10 position. I think Javier Hernandez is a fantastic player and the type of professional on and off the pitch that we should be aiming to bring into the club. However he is not a proven 20+ goal a season striker.
He scored 20 goals across all Competitions in the great 2010/11 season for Manchester United (not such a great one for us!) – but he had the world class talents of Berbatov, Tevez and a truly brilliant Nani on the wing that season to aid him to his 13 League Goal. To put that into perspective, Antonio our top scorer last season, scored 9 goals last season despite missing 9 games. And my worry is that he is simply not enough along side our current injury prone triplet in competition for a striker role.
At the moment we have 4 attacking players on upwards of 80,000 a week, Carroll, Ayew, Arnautovic and Hernandez.
With Lanzini hopefully added to the list soon signing a new contract. However only one of this is regarded as both a regularly fit player and goalscorer, yet he is still to even make his competitive debut. The signing of Arnautovic is another great one, a player who's entering his prime and show's the promise to be a real fan favourite with his size, power, skill and pace. The idea of Arnie on the wing and Antonio on the right wing is one that I think West Ham fans have every right to be optimistic about. Ayew is then surely the first player to fill in either wing side or centre forward with Sofiane.F and Snodgrass seemingly on the way out the door.
I am a fan of Ayew, despite his injuries he is a quick and skilful player who also has a habit of finding the back of the net. With the injury prone triplet of Carroll, Sakho and Ayew (who's injury history I discussed at length in my Gary Lewin article), David Sullivan spoke to the press and stated that Sakho should be 100% for the start of the season, this to my mind is either a sick joke on West Ham fans. You could argue it is a simple ploy to place the player in the shop window, however my cynical West Ham fan nature is not so sure! The notion of an injury free Sakho is one that we know has the potential to find the back of the net, however it is one that worries me! Due to the nature of his back injury itself, the likelihood of him staying injury free for more than a few months are high and extremely unlikely. Aside from goals, a fully fit Sakho also brings his well known toxic attitude, and even further risk of inflating his ego with which he can potentially cause trouble. I personally think we need to get shot of him, whether it is simply to free up his 35,000 weekly wages or simply reduce the risk of dressing room unrest.
The 16 million we nearly received for him last year is only the stuff of dreams for us at the moment, and I would bite your hand off for even half of that! Should Carroll and Sakho become injured (more a matter of when) then we have Ayew and the unproven but clearly talented Martinez to choose from to partner or replace Hernandez.
I would love to bring youth through with Martinez regularly coming on late in the games to run defences ragged, however I think we need to look at someone bigger for that role – Andy Carroll. Martinez should in my opinion be out cup striker, starting all our cup games and getting game time that way. Carroll should be seen as nothing more than a bit part player in my mind, I think that in terms of reducing injury risk and keeping him fit for as long as possible, we should only use him as such. Particularly over the first few months of his injury return, we should just chuck him on during the last 20 minutes of games and let him throw himself about and bully defences.
We simply cannot rely on him to be anything close to a regular starter this season, because it feels like as soon as we do, he picks up another long term injury. The negativity around him at the moment, wether it be in his off field antics, regular injuries or the constant disappointment of reading he won't make the squads week after week, is something detrimental to both players and fans. Personally if we could sell him for anything over 10 million I would help him move out his house and help with the fixtures and fittings at his new gaff. This would make a big physical striker top of our priority list, I would aim for Llorente who scored 15 League goals last season. And then aim for an ambitious loan with an option to buy in the form of Batshuayi.
But another concerning factor for me is that we also need more signings across the park. Specifically the middle of the pitch is a worry for us, as @Farehamhammer brilliantly put just the other day when discussing this issue! I love Noble and I think that taking into account the elements of professionalism and Passion he brings are priceless, however he has only shown glimpses of the quality we truly need to see. Take for example our last season at the Boleyn, he showed glimpses of Scott Parker's central midfield quality. He would break up play, burst forward and his passing was more often than not accurate. In contrast to last season and arguably multiple prior, he failed to do so on a regular basis. Noble however is almost unsellable with the overall elements, including passion and love of the club, however I do think he should be considered a squad player. Hopefully being introduced into our staff and coaching setup over the course of the coming seasons.
What I personally think we need to find a true engine and powerhouse in Central Midfielder. Look at how important Kante was to both Leicester and Chelsea's title winning seasons, having that player who is not worried about getting stuck in and running countless miles on the pitch, whether it is to chase back or break forward is a priceless thing for a side. Obiang's composure, range of passing and great technique are something that was priceless to the team last season. Kouyate compliments him incredibly well too with his height, strength, power and aerial presence.
But most importantly in my opinion is the ability to win back and retain possession, West Ham simply give the ball away too often. It has been our downfall for years. With Oxford out on loan, I would love to see Fernandez get his shot in the middle of the park more regularly. He has impressed me with his pace and presence on the pitch, particularly during our win against Chelsea in the Cup, however I cannot see him as much of a ball winning midfielder.
Who would I sign to try and add that quality to our squad? That is a really tough question, I like Wilshere, but he is neither physically imposing or consistently fit, which is surely a massive requirement for someone entering our side.
Lewis Baker is top talent off the Chelsea production and youth player shopping lists, at 22 I think he is another with a big point to prove. If we could sign him on either a loan or permanent deal, I feel he could really drive our midfield forward. On loan at Vitesse last year he really impressed with his overall play, willingness to run and technique. I think despite his impressive time on loan, he is a player who would not cost a huge amount to bring across London.
If I were to be even more ambitious, why not pull out all the stops to bring in Renato Sanches from Bayern Munich.
The promising centre mid has been told he can leave the Allianz Arena on loan or permanently after struggling to cement a first team place…I see this as a total shot in the dark to be honest.
But if you don't ask you don't get! And it would be a good statement for our club to have taken in one of Europes hottest young properties, even if it is only on a loan deal. Sanchez is an incredibly powerful and speedy player who I think could be a starter for any of the clubs outside the top 4. If you wanted someone not as physically imposing, but more of a defensive minded player then Malaga's Pablo Fornals would be a fantastic addition who is valued at around 11 Million Euros. He isn't a house hold name, nor is he as flamboyant as Sanches, but his energy and technique are his real strengths!
Before I end this article, I want to take a moment to say that I am one of the fans who is neither board in or out.
However even the biggest board supporter would concede that the transfer policy is truly shocking, whether it be out constant leaks to the press, the sniping at suggested targets or even just declaring interest in every player under the sun before just fizzling it out slowly. They have taken on our debt and spent incredibly well when faced with the challenge of returning us into the top flight and then cementing us back there. Our wage structure has ballooned and we have seen the club sign our first ever 20million pound players.
However I fear that they are still reluctant to spend big on individual players, merely stating interest and not pulling out all the stops to sign a real talent.You only have to look at the amount of money spent overall this summer, 19million pounds, something that could soon greatly decrease should the sale of Feghouli go through. The supposed 50, 60 or even 80million budget that was suggested is what we need to compete for a top posistion. I am aware I might sound like an Ungateful c**t here, to which numerous fans have called me on Twitter! But The Boleyn Ground, Payet and Season ticket sales money is well in excess of that. But with the constant statements of intent and promise of players, they simply cannot believe the owners believe we have enough to challenge for a top 10 or 8 place in the crazy spending League.
I would love to hear what you think and your transfer views @StevenMcCarthy9 and hopefully this article is proved to be terribly wrong by the end of next season! COYI's!!!
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West Ham sign Sead Haksabanovic on five-year deal from Halmstads
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 07/08/17 9:31pm
SSN
West Ham have completed the signing of Sead Haksabanovic on a five-year contract from Swedish club Halmstads. The 18-year-old, who has already made 70 first-team appearances in Swedish football, passed a medical with the Hammers on Monday and signs for an undisclosed fee. Haksabanovic was handed his debut for Halmstads in 2015 at the age of 15 and the attacking midfielder has scored four goals in 18 appearances in the Swedish Allsvenskan this season.
He represented Sweden at youth level but chose to switch allegiances to Montenegro and made his debut for the national team in June this year, coming on as a substitute in the 4-1 World Cup qualifying win against Albania. "I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," Haksabanovic told the club's official website. "West Ham is a big club and it is a nice feeling to have signed. The move happened quite fast - we heard that they wanted me, so I was interested to hear the plan for me and when I did I was very pleased "I am an attacking player, I like to dribble and shoot, but I work hard for the team. I am really looking forward to getting started, I have watched quite a few West Ham games in the Premier League and I can see that they have some great players and great fans. "Now I just want to get used to being with the team and then hopefully play some games at some point next season."
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West Ham fans blast 'double standards' over treatment in and around London Stadium
HITC
Damien Lucas
High profile West Ham United fans have blasted what has been described as 'double standards' at their new home. The Hammers' move to Stratford from their beloved Upton Park has been beset by problems from the start. From in-fighting among the club's fans to segregation issues, violent scenes between home and away supporters and a general dissatisfaction with the atmosphere and feel of a ground many refer to as 'soulless', it has left a bitter taste in what was supposed to be a memorable and historic campaign. Having signed a 99-year lease many supporters are disillusioned at the prospect of a long-term future at the ground in it's current state.
Popular fans website Knees Up Mother Brown compiled a brilliant 10-point message to David Sullivan, David Gold and Karren Brady detailing what needs to change if supporters are to embrace the stadium long-term. General view inside the stadium during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium on May 14, 2017 in Stratford, England. One bone of contention for supporters has been the way they are treated by nearby Westfield Shopping Centre and the way athletics and music fans have been treated during events there.
At the weekend, KUMB editor Graeme Howlett put it to Westfield and London Stadium operators that they treated Hammers fans with double standards over access to and standing in the ground "Athletics fans, Depeche Mode fans and away supporters all stand. Yet West Ham fans, who pay the most, are ordered to sit at the London Stadium," Howlett put to the stadium operators on Twitter.
Follow
Graeme Howlett @kumbdotcom
Athletics fans, Depeche Mode fans and away supporters all stand. Yet WHUFC fans, who pay the most, are ordered to sit at the @LondonStadium. https://twitter.com/lkhammer/status/893921260593393665 …
8:55 PM - Aug 5, 2017
5 5 Replies 25 25 Retweets 39 39 likes
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That came after Tom Peck, a political correspondent at the Independent, blasted the shopping centre company as he tweeted a picture showing that barriers usually in place on West Ham matchdays were down for the Athletics, as they also were for music events earlier this year "The route past Westfield Stratford shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke," Peck said.
Tom Peck ✔ @tompeck
The route past @WestfieldStrat shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke.
6:29 PM - Aug 4, 2017
36 36 Replies 191 191 Retweets 238 238 likes
Howlett then followed up Peck's tweet up by asking for some clarity from Westfield. "Your policy, Westfield Stratford - I'm sure I'm not the only West Ham supporter who'd appreciate an explanation. Pretty please?" Howlett said.
Graeme Howlett @kumbdotcom
Your policy, @westfieldstrat - I'm sure I'm not the only WHUFC supporter who'd appreciate an explanation. Pretty please? https://twitter.com/tompeck/status/893524287432404993 …
6:45 PM - Aug 5, 2017
23 23 Replies 45 45 Retweets 77 77 likes
The club's relationship with Westfield Shopping Centre next door is crucial and at the moment West Ham fans are being treated like second class citizens there despite pouring millions of pounds into its food and drink outlets and shops already. At the first two games at the stadium last season - against Domzale in the Europa League and Juventus in the official opening game - the various exits in Westfield were open which allowed a number of options for fans to filter down on their way to the stadium.
Not only did that ensure fans did not feel like second class citizens, it also avoided the ridiculous bottleneck which now takes place inside the shopping centre as fans and shoppers have one single exit to use.
A message for the West Ham United fans is seen on the LED screen inside the stadium after the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium on May 14, 2017...
The decision to close off the exits before the game means a long walk, thousands of fans getting in the way of shoppers and people turning up to the game in a bad mood from the get go.
After all the Hammers fans are spending their money in and around Westfield just like anyone else and as long as they behave themselves should be treated with more respect.
There is a distinct lack of common sense being used in all aspects so far and it must be sorted for next season.
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Andy Carroll undergoing brutal training regime in bid to get fit for West Ham
The striker has missed far too much time injured but is making a comeback - again
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
07:00, 8 AUG 2017
Andy Carroll is reportedly undergoing gruelling double sessions of fitness work to get him back into shape ahead of the new Premier League season, according to reports.
Under the watchful new West Ham of new head of medical services Gary Lewin, the injury-plagued frontman - who won't be fit for the start of the season - is undergoing a tough regime, pushing him to the absolute maximum with double training, fitness sessions and "punishing gym work" which is hoped will discover where he injury problems are coming from.
Carroll struggled with knee, groin and adductor problems and that was just last season as he missed a lot of game time which often led to an exasperated manager in Slaven Bilic.
The striker found some form at the end of last year and the turn of the year and that led to calls of a potential England call-up but he got injured before Gareth Southgate was due to watch him at home to West Brom and that was that.
Carroll isn't the only striker undergoing a return to fitness as Diafra Sakho is on his way back as well, having featured for the U23s in a behind-closed-doors game against Spurs, which West Ham won 3-2.
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Who is Sead Haksabanovic? Everything you need to know about West Ham's new wonderkid
The Hammers have confirmed the signing the Swedish-born wonderkid
Football London
BYADAM JONES
21:43, 7 AUG 2017
West Ham have confirmed a deal to bring Montengro international Sead Haksabanovic to the London Stadium this evening. The 18-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Hammers for an officially undisclosed fee - but the price is reportedly around the £3m mark.
ESPN broke the rumours earlier today that West Ham were close to bringing the attacking midfielder to East London - with is performances this season attracting attention from a number of clubs. But, if you're not a regular watcher of Swedish football, you might not have ever heard of Sead Haksabanovic.
In that case, we're done all the research so you don't have to:
Background
Sead Haksabanovic has been a one-club man throughout his career - even at youth level. Born in Sweden, but now taking Montenegrin nationality thanks to his father, the attacking midfielder has represented Halmstads BK throughout his football career so far. Capable of playing both through the middle and on the left, he was handed his debut in the Swedish second division in 2015, but had to wait until 2016 for his first goal with the club. However, the 2016 season was a brilliant one for the midfielder - bagging eight goals in 30 league appearances to help Halmstads BK earn promotion to the first division.
Last season
Sweden are currently in the midst of the season - with most clubs already having played either 17 or 18 of their 30 games so far. Haksabanovic has been an ever-present so far for Halmstads BK - bagging four goals in the process and averaging an impressive 2.8 shots per game. Not bad for an 18-year-old.
Is he an international?
Despite only being 18 years old, Haksabanovic is indeed a full international. After representing Sweden at both U17 and U19 level, the midfielder has now chosen to represent Montenegro at national level. His one international appearance to date came in June 2017 - coming on as an 84th minute substitute during a 4-1 World Cup qualifying win over Albania.
How likely is a move?
Well, according to the reports from EPSPN, the deal has already been agreed to see Sead Haksabanovic join West Ham for £2.7 million. And, on the face of it, you'd have to assume that a move to a Premier League club would be highly tempting for someone in that stage of their career.
Is anyone else interested?
Well, it doesn't look like. These reports are in their early stages - but it seems that West Ham as as clear a run at Haksabanovic as they're ever going to get. Do the deal quickly lads if it's serious!
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic.
The exciting 18-year-old joins the Hammers on a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee from Swedish club Halmstads BK, where he became the second-youngest player in Allsvenskan league history in April 2015.
Blessed with searing pace, outstanding technical ability and vision and an eye for goal, Haksabanovic has already made 70 first-team appearances and made his senior international debut in May.
Now, the Sweden-born player will bring his wide range of talents to the Hammers, London Stadium and the Premier League.
"I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," said Haksabanovic, who becomes the third former Halmstads player to join the Hammers after Sweden stars Niclas Alexandersson and Fredrik Ljungberg.
"West Ham is a big club and it is a nice feeling to have signed. The move happened quite fast - we heard that they wanted me, so I was interested to hear the plan for me and when I did I was very pleased.
"I am an attacking player, I like to dribble and shoot, but I work hard for the team. I am really looking forward to getting started, I have watched quite a few West Ham games in the Premier League and I can see that they have some great players and great fans.
"Now I just want to get used to being with the team and then hopefully play some games at some point next season."
Haksabanovic was born in the small village of Hyltebruk 35 miles north east of Halmstad, joining the club at the age of six in 2006.
Nine years later, he became HBK's youngest-ever player when he debuted at IFK Norrkoping in the Allsvenskan on 9 April 2015, aged just 15 years, eleven months and six days.
Halmstad were relegated in 2015, but Haksabanovic's eight goals and seven assists in 30 appearances saw them promoted from the Superettan at the first attempt.
Back in the top flight, the teenager has continued to impress this season, starting all 18 Allsvenskan fixtures and scoring four goals, despite playing for a team which has won just two league matches.
Internationally, Haksabanovic featured for Sweden at U17 and U19 level before switching his allegiance to Montengero – the country of his father's birth – earlier this year.
A senior debut arrived on 10 June in Podgorica, when he played the final six minutes of his nation's 4-1 FIFA World Cup qualifying win over Armenia – a victory which kept them second in Group E.
Everyone at West Ham United would like to welcome Sead to London Stadium the best of luck as he embarks on a new career in Claret and Blue.
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Carabao Cup second round draw details
WHUFC.com
In the event that West Ham United are drawn at home in Round Two of the Carabao Cup then they will be given special dispensation by the EFL Board to play the fixture at the opposition's venue, due to a previously agreed arrangement that London Stadium was to stage the 2017 IAAF World Championships in August.
If the draw dictates this is required, then the EFL Board will determine a level of compensation to be paid by West Ham to the opposing club. No further 2017/18 Carabao Cup ties will be affected in the event that the Hammers progress in the competition and are drawn at home.
An EFL spokesman said: "The Board of the EFL has carefully considered a request from West Ham United and, given the circumstances they faced when relocating to their new stadium, felt it was wholly appropriate to agree to a fixture reversal."
The Carabao Cup Round Two draw will take place live on Sky Sports News on Thursday 10 August 2017, following the Bury versus Sunderland televised Round One tie.
The 13 Premier League clubs not competing in UEFA competitions will enter the competition at Round Two, along with Hull City and Middlesbrough from the Sky Bet Championship.
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Byram: We'll definitely be looking to finish in the top half
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram has set a top-ten target for West Ham United.
The right-back arrived in east London in January 2016 helped the Hammers to seventh in the Premier League just a few months later. Byram's first full season in Claret and Blue was less successful position-wise, as Slaven Bilic's side ended the 2016/17 campaign in eleventh – albeit 17 points worse off than they had been a year previously.
As he prepares to begin his third season as a West Ham player, the No22 pointed to the summer signings of Pablo Zabaleta, Joe Hart, Marko Arnautovic and Chicharito as four real reasons for optimism.
"I think the signings we've made show the ambition of the Club," said Byram. "We've got a great squad and we'll definitely be looking to finish in the top half of the table and see how well we can do."
One of those four transfer window captures, Zabaleta, will battle Byram for the starting position on the right side of Slaven Bilic's defence.
However, with different qualities – Zabaleta has vast experience and tactical nous, while Byram has pace and a relentless willingness to get forward – the 23-year-old knows both will likely be called on by the Croatian during the upcoming campaign.
"Every player is going to have competition in a top team and West ham are a top club, so we've got competition all over the pitch," he observed. "For me, I've just got to keep working hard and try to impress the manager and get in the team."
Byram featured in all six of West Ham's pre-season matches, having returned to Rush Green early following his summer holiday, and he is hoping that hard work pays off in the shape of game-time in the opening Premier League fixture of 2017/18 at Manchester United.
The Hammers head to Old Trafford on Sunday on the back of a 3-0 pre-season defeat by Manchester City in Iceland, taking the number of goals conceded in those six matches to ten, and Byram has joined the chorus of voices calling for a defensive improvement.
"We were obviously disappointed with the result and we knew we were in for a tough test against a top team, but it's the sort of challenge we needed before the Premier League starts next weekend," he confirmed.
"We've let in a few goals that we are not too pleased about. Manchester United have similar quality and are up there and will be challenging this year, but we've also made some good signings so we want to group together and put in a good performance."
West Ham's opening Premier League fixture at Manchester will be screened live by Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League from 3.30pm on Sunday 13 August.
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Loan watch: Cullen and Burke debut for Bolton
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen and Reece Burke both made their Bolton Wanderers debuts at the end of the week which saw them move on loan to the Macron Stadium.
The Trotters took on Leeds United in their Championship opener on Sunday, but were beaten 3-2 in an entertaining clash in the north west.
Hammers midfielder Cullen, who impressed in League One on loan at Bradford City last campaign, started the match for Phil Parkinson's men, but the visitors took the lead early on when Kalvin Phillips found the back of the net after seven minutes.
The division's 2016/17 top goalscorer Chris Wood then doubled Leeds' lead to complete a disastrous first half an hour of the season for Bolton.
Gary Madine pulled one back with six minutes remaining in the opening period, but Phillips was on hand to double his career Championship goal-tally in less than a half of football when he tapped home before the break.
An Adam Le Fondre penalty gave the hosts hope in the second half, but Wanderers – who handed Burke a debut from the bench in the 53rd minute – could not equalise.
Parkinson's outfit have an opportunity to bounce back immediately on Wednesday when they take on Crewe Alexandra in the Carabao Cup first round.
Meanwhile, Borussia Monchengladbach took on Leicester City in their final pre-season clash of the campaign on Friday, though Reece Oxford missed out with an ankle problem.
The Foxes ran out 2-1 winners, with Jamie Vardy bagging a brace to turn the game around after Thorgan Hazard had given the German side the lead early in the second half.
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Westley's youngsters ready for Billericay clash
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley sees Tuesday night's clash against Billericay Town as a final chance for his U23 players to cement a spot in the starting XI before the league season kicks-off on Friday.
The Premier League 2 outfit travel to the AGP Arena to face the Isthmian League club in their last pre-season fixture of the campaign before Everton visit Dagenham and Redbridge later this week.
The youngsters have faced a number of tough friendly tests already, having taken on the likes of Football League sides Colchester United and Barnet, and with the number of experienced heads in the Blues' side, Tuesday is likely to be no different.
Former Hammer Paul Konchesky is a key player for the hosts, while ex-Tottenham Hotspur man Jamie O'Hara is club captain. Former Premier League journeyman Jermaine Pennant also signed for the club this summer.
Hammers boss Westley acknowledged the game will be a tricky one, but challenged his players to prove themselves before the league campaign begins three days later.
He said: "It will be a hard game against Billericay, but we are looking at it as a real chance for some players to prove themselves for a final time this pre-season when we play on Tuesday.
"It's a chance to try and get a spot in the starting XI for when we kick-off our league campaign against Everton on Friday at Dagenham.
"It will be a game where those players who have been away with the first team this pre-season, they'll get to play with the group for a first time this summer, which is something we haven't had.
"We played Spurs at the weekend too, which was a good measure of where we are, so we're looking forward to this last friendly."
The Hammers have had a positive pre-season in full, beating National League Dagenham and Redbridge 2-1 after narrow defeats to Colchester and Barnet.
They then travelled to Slovakia to take on two local sides, and after a defeat followed by a win in mainland Europe, Westley was pleased with the trip.
"It was a really great trip in Slovakia for us," the Academy Director continued. "We had the players working in the morning and in the afternoon, and then they were doing analysis work in the evening.
"It was great to have everyone together for that. It was a full-on, seven day programme and we had two very good games in great stadiums with great pitches, which was very important to us.
"We were really pleased with the second game in particular, with the manner in which we played."
Supporters can purchase tickets at the turnstiles at the AGP Arena on Tuesday, and kick-off is at 7:45pm.
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Sead Haksabanovic: West Ham sign teenager from Halmstads BK
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United have signed teenage attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic from Swedish club Halmstads BK for an undisclosed fee. The 18-year-old, who cost a reported £2.7m, has agreed a five-year contract. The Montenegro player made his debut in Sweden's top flight in April 2015 when aged just 15 - the second-youngest ever in that league - and has already made more than 70 first-team appearances. "I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," he said.
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Carabao Cup: West Ham to play away tie after World Athletics Championships
BBC.co.uk
West Ham have been given special dispensation to play their Carabao Cup second-round tie away from home as London Stadium will still not be ready to host football matches. The Hammers already had permission to travel away for their opening three games of the Premier League season. London Stadium is currently hosting the World Athletics Championships. West Ham will have to pay compensation to their opponents if they are drawn at home and the tie is switched. Home and away clubs in the EFL Cup split gate receipts equally.
The World Athletics Championships event finishes on 13 August, with seating and branding needing to be changed before the Hammers move back into the 57,000-capacity stadium. The EFL Cup second-round draw takes place live on Thursday, 10 August, with the 13 Premier League clubs who have not qualified for European competitions entering the draw.
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THE CAUTIOUS WATCHER ON THE TRANSFER WINDOW
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 AUGUST 2017 AT 10:34PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @StevenMcCarthy9
This window is one that I am struggling to really come to terms with, why? Because I have no idea whether to be optimistic or apprehensive for the season ahead. In my opinion we are still 3 or 4 signings away from competing for a top 8 or even 10 position. I think Javier Hernandez is a fantastic player and the type of professional on and off the pitch that we should be aiming to bring into the club. However he is not a proven 20+ goal a season striker.
He scored 20 goals across all Competitions in the great 2010/11 season for Manchester United (not such a great one for us!) – but he had the world class talents of Berbatov, Tevez and a truly brilliant Nani on the wing that season to aid him to his 13 League Goal. To put that into perspective, Antonio our top scorer last season, scored 9 goals last season despite missing 9 games. And my worry is that he is simply not enough along side our current injury prone triplet in competition for a striker role.
At the moment we have 4 attacking players on upwards of 80,000 a week, Carroll, Ayew, Arnautovic and Hernandez.
With Lanzini hopefully added to the list soon signing a new contract. However only one of this is regarded as both a regularly fit player and goalscorer, yet he is still to even make his competitive debut. The signing of Arnautovic is another great one, a player who's entering his prime and show's the promise to be a real fan favourite with his size, power, skill and pace. The idea of Arnie on the wing and Antonio on the right wing is one that I think West Ham fans have every right to be optimistic about. Ayew is then surely the first player to fill in either wing side or centre forward with Sofiane.F and Snodgrass seemingly on the way out the door.
I am a fan of Ayew, despite his injuries he is a quick and skilful player who also has a habit of finding the back of the net. With the injury prone triplet of Carroll, Sakho and Ayew (who's injury history I discussed at length in my Gary Lewin article), David Sullivan spoke to the press and stated that Sakho should be 100% for the start of the season, this to my mind is either a sick joke on West Ham fans. You could argue it is a simple ploy to place the player in the shop window, however my cynical West Ham fan nature is not so sure! The notion of an injury free Sakho is one that we know has the potential to find the back of the net, however it is one that worries me! Due to the nature of his back injury itself, the likelihood of him staying injury free for more than a few months are high and extremely unlikely. Aside from goals, a fully fit Sakho also brings his well known toxic attitude, and even further risk of inflating his ego with which he can potentially cause trouble. I personally think we need to get shot of him, whether it is simply to free up his 35,000 weekly wages or simply reduce the risk of dressing room unrest.
The 16 million we nearly received for him last year is only the stuff of dreams for us at the moment, and I would bite your hand off for even half of that! Should Carroll and Sakho become injured (more a matter of when) then we have Ayew and the unproven but clearly talented Martinez to choose from to partner or replace Hernandez.
I would love to bring youth through with Martinez regularly coming on late in the games to run defences ragged, however I think we need to look at someone bigger for that role – Andy Carroll. Martinez should in my opinion be out cup striker, starting all our cup games and getting game time that way. Carroll should be seen as nothing more than a bit part player in my mind, I think that in terms of reducing injury risk and keeping him fit for as long as possible, we should only use him as such. Particularly over the first few months of his injury return, we should just chuck him on during the last 20 minutes of games and let him throw himself about and bully defences.
We simply cannot rely on him to be anything close to a regular starter this season, because it feels like as soon as we do, he picks up another long term injury. The negativity around him at the moment, wether it be in his off field antics, regular injuries or the constant disappointment of reading he won't make the squads week after week, is something detrimental to both players and fans. Personally if we could sell him for anything over 10 million I would help him move out his house and help with the fixtures and fittings at his new gaff. This would make a big physical striker top of our priority list, I would aim for Llorente who scored 15 League goals last season. And then aim for an ambitious loan with an option to buy in the form of Batshuayi.
But another concerning factor for me is that we also need more signings across the park. Specifically the middle of the pitch is a worry for us, as @Farehamhammer brilliantly put just the other day when discussing this issue! I love Noble and I think that taking into account the elements of professionalism and Passion he brings are priceless, however he has only shown glimpses of the quality we truly need to see. Take for example our last season at the Boleyn, he showed glimpses of Scott Parker's central midfield quality. He would break up play, burst forward and his passing was more often than not accurate. In contrast to last season and arguably multiple prior, he failed to do so on a regular basis. Noble however is almost unsellable with the overall elements, including passion and love of the club, however I do think he should be considered a squad player. Hopefully being introduced into our staff and coaching setup over the course of the coming seasons.
What I personally think we need to find a true engine and powerhouse in Central Midfielder. Look at how important Kante was to both Leicester and Chelsea's title winning seasons, having that player who is not worried about getting stuck in and running countless miles on the pitch, whether it is to chase back or break forward is a priceless thing for a side. Obiang's composure, range of passing and great technique are something that was priceless to the team last season. Kouyate compliments him incredibly well too with his height, strength, power and aerial presence.
But most importantly in my opinion is the ability to win back and retain possession, West Ham simply give the ball away too often. It has been our downfall for years. With Oxford out on loan, I would love to see Fernandez get his shot in the middle of the park more regularly. He has impressed me with his pace and presence on the pitch, particularly during our win against Chelsea in the Cup, however I cannot see him as much of a ball winning midfielder.
Who would I sign to try and add that quality to our squad? That is a really tough question, I like Wilshere, but he is neither physically imposing or consistently fit, which is surely a massive requirement for someone entering our side.
Lewis Baker is top talent off the Chelsea production and youth player shopping lists, at 22 I think he is another with a big point to prove. If we could sign him on either a loan or permanent deal, I feel he could really drive our midfield forward. On loan at Vitesse last year he really impressed with his overall play, willingness to run and technique. I think despite his impressive time on loan, he is a player who would not cost a huge amount to bring across London.
If I were to be even more ambitious, why not pull out all the stops to bring in Renato Sanches from Bayern Munich.
The promising centre mid has been told he can leave the Allianz Arena on loan or permanently after struggling to cement a first team place…I see this as a total shot in the dark to be honest.
But if you don't ask you don't get! And it would be a good statement for our club to have taken in one of Europes hottest young properties, even if it is only on a loan deal. Sanchez is an incredibly powerful and speedy player who I think could be a starter for any of the clubs outside the top 4. If you wanted someone not as physically imposing, but more of a defensive minded player then Malaga's Pablo Fornals would be a fantastic addition who is valued at around 11 Million Euros. He isn't a house hold name, nor is he as flamboyant as Sanches, but his energy and technique are his real strengths!
Before I end this article, I want to take a moment to say that I am one of the fans who is neither board in or out.
However even the biggest board supporter would concede that the transfer policy is truly shocking, whether it be out constant leaks to the press, the sniping at suggested targets or even just declaring interest in every player under the sun before just fizzling it out slowly. They have taken on our debt and spent incredibly well when faced with the challenge of returning us into the top flight and then cementing us back there. Our wage structure has ballooned and we have seen the club sign our first ever 20million pound players.
However I fear that they are still reluctant to spend big on individual players, merely stating interest and not pulling out all the stops to sign a real talent.You only have to look at the amount of money spent overall this summer, 19million pounds, something that could soon greatly decrease should the sale of Feghouli go through. The supposed 50, 60 or even 80million budget that was suggested is what we need to compete for a top posistion. I am aware I might sound like an Ungateful c**t here, to which numerous fans have called me on Twitter! But The Boleyn Ground, Payet and Season ticket sales money is well in excess of that. But with the constant statements of intent and promise of players, they simply cannot believe the owners believe we have enough to challenge for a top 10 or 8 place in the crazy spending League.
I would love to hear what you think and your transfer views @StevenMcCarthy9 and hopefully this article is proved to be terribly wrong by the end of next season! COYI's!!!
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West Ham sign Sead Haksabanovic on five-year deal from Halmstads
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 07/08/17 9:31pm
SSN
West Ham have completed the signing of Sead Haksabanovic on a five-year contract from Swedish club Halmstads. The 18-year-old, who has already made 70 first-team appearances in Swedish football, passed a medical with the Hammers on Monday and signs for an undisclosed fee. Haksabanovic was handed his debut for Halmstads in 2015 at the age of 15 and the attacking midfielder has scored four goals in 18 appearances in the Swedish Allsvenskan this season.
He represented Sweden at youth level but chose to switch allegiances to Montenegro and made his debut for the national team in June this year, coming on as a substitute in the 4-1 World Cup qualifying win against Albania. "I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," Haksabanovic told the club's official website. "West Ham is a big club and it is a nice feeling to have signed. The move happened quite fast - we heard that they wanted me, so I was interested to hear the plan for me and when I did I was very pleased "I am an attacking player, I like to dribble and shoot, but I work hard for the team. I am really looking forward to getting started, I have watched quite a few West Ham games in the Premier League and I can see that they have some great players and great fans. "Now I just want to get used to being with the team and then hopefully play some games at some point next season."
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West Ham fans blast 'double standards' over treatment in and around London Stadium
HITC
Damien Lucas
High profile West Ham United fans have blasted what has been described as 'double standards' at their new home. The Hammers' move to Stratford from their beloved Upton Park has been beset by problems from the start. From in-fighting among the club's fans to segregation issues, violent scenes between home and away supporters and a general dissatisfaction with the atmosphere and feel of a ground many refer to as 'soulless', it has left a bitter taste in what was supposed to be a memorable and historic campaign. Having signed a 99-year lease many supporters are disillusioned at the prospect of a long-term future at the ground in it's current state.
Popular fans website Knees Up Mother Brown compiled a brilliant 10-point message to David Sullivan, David Gold and Karren Brady detailing what needs to change if supporters are to embrace the stadium long-term. General view inside the stadium during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium on May 14, 2017 in Stratford, England. One bone of contention for supporters has been the way they are treated by nearby Westfield Shopping Centre and the way athletics and music fans have been treated during events there.
At the weekend, KUMB editor Graeme Howlett put it to Westfield and London Stadium operators that they treated Hammers fans with double standards over access to and standing in the ground "Athletics fans, Depeche Mode fans and away supporters all stand. Yet West Ham fans, who pay the most, are ordered to sit at the London Stadium," Howlett put to the stadium operators on Twitter.
Follow
Graeme Howlett @kumbdotcom
Athletics fans, Depeche Mode fans and away supporters all stand. Yet WHUFC fans, who pay the most, are ordered to sit at the @LondonStadium. https://twitter.com/lkhammer/status/893921260593393665 …
8:55 PM - Aug 5, 2017
5 5 Replies 25 25 Retweets 39 39 likes
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That came after Tom Peck, a political correspondent at the Independent, blasted the shopping centre company as he tweeted a picture showing that barriers usually in place on West Ham matchdays were down for the Athletics, as they also were for music events earlier this year "The route past Westfield Stratford shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke," Peck said.
Tom Peck ✔ @tompeck
The route past @WestfieldStrat shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke.
6:29 PM - Aug 4, 2017
36 36 Replies 191 191 Retweets 238 238 likes
Howlett then followed up Peck's tweet up by asking for some clarity from Westfield. "Your policy, Westfield Stratford - I'm sure I'm not the only West Ham supporter who'd appreciate an explanation. Pretty please?" Howlett said.
Graeme Howlett @kumbdotcom
Your policy, @westfieldstrat - I'm sure I'm not the only WHUFC supporter who'd appreciate an explanation. Pretty please? https://twitter.com/tompeck/status/893524287432404993 …
6:45 PM - Aug 5, 2017
23 23 Replies 45 45 Retweets 77 77 likes
The club's relationship with Westfield Shopping Centre next door is crucial and at the moment West Ham fans are being treated like second class citizens there despite pouring millions of pounds into its food and drink outlets and shops already. At the first two games at the stadium last season - against Domzale in the Europa League and Juventus in the official opening game - the various exits in Westfield were open which allowed a number of options for fans to filter down on their way to the stadium.
Not only did that ensure fans did not feel like second class citizens, it also avoided the ridiculous bottleneck which now takes place inside the shopping centre as fans and shoppers have one single exit to use.
A message for the West Ham United fans is seen on the LED screen inside the stadium after the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium on May 14, 2017...
The decision to close off the exits before the game means a long walk, thousands of fans getting in the way of shoppers and people turning up to the game in a bad mood from the get go.
After all the Hammers fans are spending their money in and around Westfield just like anyone else and as long as they behave themselves should be treated with more respect.
There is a distinct lack of common sense being used in all aspects so far and it must be sorted for next season.
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Andy Carroll undergoing brutal training regime in bid to get fit for West Ham
The striker has missed far too much time injured but is making a comeback - again
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
07:00, 8 AUG 2017
Andy Carroll is reportedly undergoing gruelling double sessions of fitness work to get him back into shape ahead of the new Premier League season, according to reports.
Under the watchful new West Ham of new head of medical services Gary Lewin, the injury-plagued frontman - who won't be fit for the start of the season - is undergoing a tough regime, pushing him to the absolute maximum with double training, fitness sessions and "punishing gym work" which is hoped will discover where he injury problems are coming from.
Carroll struggled with knee, groin and adductor problems and that was just last season as he missed a lot of game time which often led to an exasperated manager in Slaven Bilic.
The striker found some form at the end of last year and the turn of the year and that led to calls of a potential England call-up but he got injured before Gareth Southgate was due to watch him at home to West Brom and that was that.
Carroll isn't the only striker undergoing a return to fitness as Diafra Sakho is on his way back as well, having featured for the U23s in a behind-closed-doors game against Spurs, which West Ham won 3-2.
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Who is Sead Haksabanovic? Everything you need to know about West Ham's new wonderkid
The Hammers have confirmed the signing the Swedish-born wonderkid
Football London
BYADAM JONES
21:43, 7 AUG 2017
West Ham have confirmed a deal to bring Montengro international Sead Haksabanovic to the London Stadium this evening. The 18-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Hammers for an officially undisclosed fee - but the price is reportedly around the £3m mark.
ESPN broke the rumours earlier today that West Ham were close to bringing the attacking midfielder to East London - with is performances this season attracting attention from a number of clubs. But, if you're not a regular watcher of Swedish football, you might not have ever heard of Sead Haksabanovic.
In that case, we're done all the research so you don't have to:
Background
Sead Haksabanovic has been a one-club man throughout his career - even at youth level. Born in Sweden, but now taking Montenegrin nationality thanks to his father, the attacking midfielder has represented Halmstads BK throughout his football career so far. Capable of playing both through the middle and on the left, he was handed his debut in the Swedish second division in 2015, but had to wait until 2016 for his first goal with the club. However, the 2016 season was a brilliant one for the midfielder - bagging eight goals in 30 league appearances to help Halmstads BK earn promotion to the first division.
Last season
Sweden are currently in the midst of the season - with most clubs already having played either 17 or 18 of their 30 games so far. Haksabanovic has been an ever-present so far for Halmstads BK - bagging four goals in the process and averaging an impressive 2.8 shots per game. Not bad for an 18-year-old.
Is he an international?
Despite only being 18 years old, Haksabanovic is indeed a full international. After representing Sweden at both U17 and U19 level, the midfielder has now chosen to represent Montenegro at national level. His one international appearance to date came in June 2017 - coming on as an 84th minute substitute during a 4-1 World Cup qualifying win over Albania.
How likely is a move?
Well, according to the reports from EPSPN, the deal has already been agreed to see Sead Haksabanovic join West Ham for £2.7 million. And, on the face of it, you'd have to assume that a move to a Premier League club would be highly tempting for someone in that stage of their career.
Is anyone else interested?
Well, it doesn't look like. These reports are in their early stages - but it seems that West Ham as as clear a run at Haksabanovic as they're ever going to get. Do the deal quickly lads if it's serious!
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, August 7
Daily WHUFC News - 7th August 2017
Noble: We've got a good week of training ahead
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble believes Friday's final pre-season match against Manchester City on Friday served as the perfect tune-up for Sunday's Premier League opener. The Hammers may have been defeated 3-0 by City, but Noble insists the work out in Iceland will stand them in good stead for the trip to Old Trafford at the weekend.
West Ham have prepared for the new campaign with training camps in Austria and Germany – alongside Friday's game in Reykjavík – and the skipper says that has helped the new additions to the squad bed in. He explained: "We've been away for four weeks really – we then flew into Iceland the day before the game [against Man City] and it was a really good workout. "You know they're going to be fighting for the Premier League title, and we play Man Utd next week, so the more fitness you get the better. "We've brought in quality this summer. Chicha still needs to get match fit – he got a good 45 minutes on Friday and now we've got a good week of training at home before the first match. "Joe [Hart] and Arnautovic have been with us for most of pre-season, so it has been good. "It's great to sign the England goalkeeper. You can't turn an opportunity like that down for his experience and what he's done in the game. He's a great character as well and is good to have around the place. "We are aiming to finish as high as possible, but so are ten other clubs. That's just the way the Premier League is."
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BACK TO THE 90S: WHEN WEST HAM WENT BACK TO THE FUTRE
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 AUGUST 2017 AT 9:58PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Sid Lambert (@Sid_Lambert) goes back to 1996 when Harry Redknapp signed one of the best footballers of his generation and it all got a bit… shirty
Saturday August 1996, 2.15pm
Harry Redknapp and Peter Storrie stood open-mouthed in the away changing room at Highbury.
The fixture list hadn't been particularly kind to West Ham. A season-opener away at Arsenal was a tough start to the new campaign. But even the most pessimistic souls couldn't have foreseen the chaos unfolding before their eyes.
Above ground, thousands of Hammers had amassed in the away end, anxiously awaiting sight of one of the most famous footballers of his generation.
Meanwhile, deep in the bowels of Highbury, a colossal shitstorm was brewing.
Such was the consternation that Harry Redknapp had sent foul-mouthed word to the Director's Lounge, where Storrie was enjoying his sumptuous pre-match refreshment, that he was required in the dressing room immediately.
Before a ball had even been kicked, West Ham were dealing with their first crisis of the 1996-97 season.
Paulo Futre, the Portuguese genius, was refusing to play..
Wednesday 27 May, 1987 (European Cup Final)
After years of under-achievement in Europe, the once-mighty Bayern Munich were rising again. Brehme, Matthaus and Rummenigge looked set to crown the brave new dawn of West German football.
All that stood between them and glory was a much-unfancied Porto side, led by the prodigious left foot of Paulo Futre. The 21-year-old maestro had inspired Porto to successive Primera Liga titles, earning comparisons with the magnificent Diego Maradona.
For 45 minutes, everything went to plan for Bayern as they secured a 1-0 lead at the interval. The second half saw one of the most virtuoso displays in the competition's history. Porto's prodigy produced a masterclass, dropping deep and drifting past players at will. Bayern crumbled in the face of his brilliance. Porto scored twice and were crowned champions of Europe.
Paulo Futre had the world at his feet.
A money-spinning move to Atletico Madrid followed. The Portuguese become an instant hit in Spain before a succession of crippling knee injuries took their toll.
Each time the Atleti fans would pray for their hero's speedy return. And each time Futre would come back a paler shadow of his former self. After five seasons, it became painfully clear that his time had been and gone.
Stints in Italy followed. A spell with Reggiana – where flashes of majesty convinced Milan to come calling – was as good as it got. He made a solitary league appearance at the San Siro before he was released into the football wilderness.
Having barely played football in two years, he was now officially a football journeyman. That night against Bayern was a lifetime ago. He was a has-been. A crock. All set for football's scrapheap.
Then along came Harry.
Tuesday 2 July, 1996
Harry Redknapp had established much-needed stability in the East End of London. The Hammers had finished 10th the previous season, their best top-flight finish since the heady days of '86.
He'd developed a reputation as a shrewd operator in the transfer market. He'd brought back fan favourites Tony Cottee and Julian Dicks on cut-price deals and dabbled successfully in foreign currency, signing Slaven Bilic for peanuts from Karlsruhe.
The next deal would be his most outrageous yet. He and Peter Storrie started talking to Paulo Futre – a player who could potentially take them to the next level.
How the Portuguese passed the medical at Chadwell Heath remains one of the game's great mysteries. In medical parlance, he was knackered. Even West Ham's basic x-ray equipment, presumably sponsored by Fisher Price, would surely reveal his kneecaps were held together by chewing gum and a piece of string?
Apparently not. Harry, always comfortable spending other people's money, decided to risk it. He was a top, top player after all.
Paulo Futre, a man recognised as one of the best number 10's in football history, was now officially a West Ham man.
Saturday August 1996, 2.45pm
The shirt was hurled I back into a startled Eddie Gillam's face. The erstwhile kitman reeled in shock.
His crime? He'd handed Paulo Futre a shirt with number 16 on it.
Short of defecating on his ancestors' graves, Futre could not comprehend a greater insult. One of the world's most famous number 10's was being denied his rightful shirt… because of John Moncur?
Whilst Gillam faced an existential crisis, Redknapp tried his best to diffuse the situation. The shirts had been printed. Thousands of Hammers fans' were proudly sporting "Futre 16" in the away end. Couldn't they sort it out later, old son?
Fuck you. I no play.
A frazzled Peter Storrie arrived, still chewing the last morsels of his chicken cordon bleu, to mediate. Yet Futre would not be calmed. He changed into his civvies and headed for the taxi rank.
The teams had been submitted to the referee and by law, no changes could be made. Futre, now halfway to Canary Wharf, was due on the pitch in a matter of minutes. West Ham would have to start the new season with ten men, unless Redknapp could muster up some magic.
The Hammers boss marched into the referee's office and did the decent thing : blamed it on his assistant, Frank Lampard Snr. Dear Old Frank, never the best of spellers, had forgotten his glasses. He'd meant to write down Stevie Jones, the workhorse forward signed from Billericay, and scribbled the name of Portugal's greatest footballer instead.
It was an honest mistake. Could have happened to anyone.
The referee accepted the unlikely excuse. West Ham started the game with eleven players, who duly rolled over and lost 2-0.
Damage limitation began the following week when Futre appeared, his legal team in tow, to convince Moncur to transfer ownership of the shirt. Moncur was hardly a student of the law. In fact, his main pre-occupation at the training ground was running round the pitch, genitalia whistling in the wind, wearing nothing but his football boots.
However, the madcap midfielder knew a good deal when he saw it. Futre offered a six-figure sum and two weeks in his private villa in the Algarve. The shirt crisis had reached an expensive conclusion.
Don in
Futre made his debut in a half-time cameo against perennial strugglers Coventry City. In an ominous sign for the rest of the season, the Hammers were outplayed by the Sky Blues in a truly dreadful first half. It took the introduction of the Portuguese to inject some quality into the game. Despite his limited mobility, he was comfortably the best player on the pitch. He dragged his new team back into the game and helped secure a precious point.
His second appearance in Claret and Blue was his most memorable. Southampton were the visitors to Upton Park and Redknapp, buoyed by the impressive cameo against Coventry, gave his star man a starting place. He was rewarded with a stellar showing that put the rest of the Premier League on notice: Paulo Futre was far from done.
The Hammers' number 10 was peerless. Rolling back the years , he ran the Saints ragged, creating a succession of chances that West Ham's forward line – lead by Dowie – contrived to spurn, before Julian Dicks scored a late winner.
The Upton Park faithful dared to dream.
Saturday 14 September, 1996
The dream lasted another 34 minutes. A typically robust tackle from Wimbledon's midfield folded Futre like an accordion. He lay prone on the turf clutching his knee. Eventually he hobbled off, wearing the grimace of a man who knew he was done.
There was a feeble attempt to come back. But the game was up.
His last start at any meaningful level of football had seen him upstaged by Efan Ekoku, who powered the Dons to a 2-0 win.
The end
Alongside Futre, Romanians Ilie Dumitrescu and Florin Raducioiu had proved unmitigated disasters. After the embarrassment of Marco Boogers the season before, Harry Redknapp decided to postpone his foreign shopping trips.
Faced with near-certain relegation, he rolled the dice on two domestic signings. Paul Kitson and John Hartson arrived from Newcastle and Arsenal respectively. Their goals saved West Ham from the drop.
The sun finally set on Paulo Futre's career during another injury-hit spell with Yokohama Flugels. His spell at Upton Park had been brief but wholly memorable.
He'd given West Ham fans a reason to dream the impossible, only to see it fade and die.
Football can be a cruel mistress.
Bio: Sid Lambert is a historical football writer, who recently released his new book Cashing In: the story Ray Cash, a 19-year-old footballer making his way through the murky world of the Premier League back in 1992, when football changed forever. You can buy it here.
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No Westfield barriers for Athletics fans
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 6th August 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have asked Westfield Stratford to explain why barriers erected to prevent access from the shopping centre to the Olympic Stadium have been removed for the Athletics World Championships. Hammers fans making their way from Stratford Station to the stadium last season were used to having to traipse around the perimeter of the shopping mall, as temporary barriers were installed prior to every match preventing supporters from taking the most natural and obvious routes through the shopping centre. However a number of supporters have expressed their annoyance this weekend after it was revealed that the barriers have not been installed for the Championships, which are taking place between 4-13 August.
Follow
Tom Peck ✔ @tompeck
The route past @WestfieldStrat shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke.
6:29 PM - Aug 4, 2017
35 35 Replies 185 185 Retweets 235 235 likes
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Naturally, this has been viewed as discriminatory by a good number of West Ham supporters, some of whom have asked Westfield to provide an explanation for the decision to install barriers for football fans only.
* As a result of the Championships taking place in Stratford, West Ham have asked the Football League for their second round tie to be played away from home. The draw is scheduled to take place later this week.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble believes Friday's final pre-season match against Manchester City on Friday served as the perfect tune-up for Sunday's Premier League opener. The Hammers may have been defeated 3-0 by City, but Noble insists the work out in Iceland will stand them in good stead for the trip to Old Trafford at the weekend.
West Ham have prepared for the new campaign with training camps in Austria and Germany – alongside Friday's game in Reykjavík – and the skipper says that has helped the new additions to the squad bed in. He explained: "We've been away for four weeks really – we then flew into Iceland the day before the game [against Man City] and it was a really good workout. "You know they're going to be fighting for the Premier League title, and we play Man Utd next week, so the more fitness you get the better. "We've brought in quality this summer. Chicha still needs to get match fit – he got a good 45 minutes on Friday and now we've got a good week of training at home before the first match. "Joe [Hart] and Arnautovic have been with us for most of pre-season, so it has been good. "It's great to sign the England goalkeeper. You can't turn an opportunity like that down for his experience and what he's done in the game. He's a great character as well and is good to have around the place. "We are aiming to finish as high as possible, but so are ten other clubs. That's just the way the Premier League is."
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BACK TO THE 90S: WHEN WEST HAM WENT BACK TO THE FUTRE
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 AUGUST 2017 AT 9:58PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Sid Lambert (@Sid_Lambert) goes back to 1996 when Harry Redknapp signed one of the best footballers of his generation and it all got a bit… shirty
Saturday August 1996, 2.15pm
Harry Redknapp and Peter Storrie stood open-mouthed in the away changing room at Highbury.
The fixture list hadn't been particularly kind to West Ham. A season-opener away at Arsenal was a tough start to the new campaign. But even the most pessimistic souls couldn't have foreseen the chaos unfolding before their eyes.
Above ground, thousands of Hammers had amassed in the away end, anxiously awaiting sight of one of the most famous footballers of his generation.
Meanwhile, deep in the bowels of Highbury, a colossal shitstorm was brewing.
Such was the consternation that Harry Redknapp had sent foul-mouthed word to the Director's Lounge, where Storrie was enjoying his sumptuous pre-match refreshment, that he was required in the dressing room immediately.
Before a ball had even been kicked, West Ham were dealing with their first crisis of the 1996-97 season.
Paulo Futre, the Portuguese genius, was refusing to play..
Wednesday 27 May, 1987 (European Cup Final)
After years of under-achievement in Europe, the once-mighty Bayern Munich were rising again. Brehme, Matthaus and Rummenigge looked set to crown the brave new dawn of West German football.
All that stood between them and glory was a much-unfancied Porto side, led by the prodigious left foot of Paulo Futre. The 21-year-old maestro had inspired Porto to successive Primera Liga titles, earning comparisons with the magnificent Diego Maradona.
For 45 minutes, everything went to plan for Bayern as they secured a 1-0 lead at the interval. The second half saw one of the most virtuoso displays in the competition's history. Porto's prodigy produced a masterclass, dropping deep and drifting past players at will. Bayern crumbled in the face of his brilliance. Porto scored twice and were crowned champions of Europe.
Paulo Futre had the world at his feet.
A money-spinning move to Atletico Madrid followed. The Portuguese become an instant hit in Spain before a succession of crippling knee injuries took their toll.
Each time the Atleti fans would pray for their hero's speedy return. And each time Futre would come back a paler shadow of his former self. After five seasons, it became painfully clear that his time had been and gone.
Stints in Italy followed. A spell with Reggiana – where flashes of majesty convinced Milan to come calling – was as good as it got. He made a solitary league appearance at the San Siro before he was released into the football wilderness.
Having barely played football in two years, he was now officially a football journeyman. That night against Bayern was a lifetime ago. He was a has-been. A crock. All set for football's scrapheap.
Then along came Harry.
Tuesday 2 July, 1996
Harry Redknapp had established much-needed stability in the East End of London. The Hammers had finished 10th the previous season, their best top-flight finish since the heady days of '86.
He'd developed a reputation as a shrewd operator in the transfer market. He'd brought back fan favourites Tony Cottee and Julian Dicks on cut-price deals and dabbled successfully in foreign currency, signing Slaven Bilic for peanuts from Karlsruhe.
The next deal would be his most outrageous yet. He and Peter Storrie started talking to Paulo Futre – a player who could potentially take them to the next level.
How the Portuguese passed the medical at Chadwell Heath remains one of the game's great mysteries. In medical parlance, he was knackered. Even West Ham's basic x-ray equipment, presumably sponsored by Fisher Price, would surely reveal his kneecaps were held together by chewing gum and a piece of string?
Apparently not. Harry, always comfortable spending other people's money, decided to risk it. He was a top, top player after all.
Paulo Futre, a man recognised as one of the best number 10's in football history, was now officially a West Ham man.
Saturday August 1996, 2.45pm
The shirt was hurled I back into a startled Eddie Gillam's face. The erstwhile kitman reeled in shock.
His crime? He'd handed Paulo Futre a shirt with number 16 on it.
Short of defecating on his ancestors' graves, Futre could not comprehend a greater insult. One of the world's most famous number 10's was being denied his rightful shirt… because of John Moncur?
Whilst Gillam faced an existential crisis, Redknapp tried his best to diffuse the situation. The shirts had been printed. Thousands of Hammers fans' were proudly sporting "Futre 16" in the away end. Couldn't they sort it out later, old son?
Fuck you. I no play.
A frazzled Peter Storrie arrived, still chewing the last morsels of his chicken cordon bleu, to mediate. Yet Futre would not be calmed. He changed into his civvies and headed for the taxi rank.
The teams had been submitted to the referee and by law, no changes could be made. Futre, now halfway to Canary Wharf, was due on the pitch in a matter of minutes. West Ham would have to start the new season with ten men, unless Redknapp could muster up some magic.
The Hammers boss marched into the referee's office and did the decent thing : blamed it on his assistant, Frank Lampard Snr. Dear Old Frank, never the best of spellers, had forgotten his glasses. He'd meant to write down Stevie Jones, the workhorse forward signed from Billericay, and scribbled the name of Portugal's greatest footballer instead.
It was an honest mistake. Could have happened to anyone.
The referee accepted the unlikely excuse. West Ham started the game with eleven players, who duly rolled over and lost 2-0.
Damage limitation began the following week when Futre appeared, his legal team in tow, to convince Moncur to transfer ownership of the shirt. Moncur was hardly a student of the law. In fact, his main pre-occupation at the training ground was running round the pitch, genitalia whistling in the wind, wearing nothing but his football boots.
However, the madcap midfielder knew a good deal when he saw it. Futre offered a six-figure sum and two weeks in his private villa in the Algarve. The shirt crisis had reached an expensive conclusion.
Don in
Futre made his debut in a half-time cameo against perennial strugglers Coventry City. In an ominous sign for the rest of the season, the Hammers were outplayed by the Sky Blues in a truly dreadful first half. It took the introduction of the Portuguese to inject some quality into the game. Despite his limited mobility, he was comfortably the best player on the pitch. He dragged his new team back into the game and helped secure a precious point.
His second appearance in Claret and Blue was his most memorable. Southampton were the visitors to Upton Park and Redknapp, buoyed by the impressive cameo against Coventry, gave his star man a starting place. He was rewarded with a stellar showing that put the rest of the Premier League on notice: Paulo Futre was far from done.
The Hammers' number 10 was peerless. Rolling back the years , he ran the Saints ragged, creating a succession of chances that West Ham's forward line – lead by Dowie – contrived to spurn, before Julian Dicks scored a late winner.
The Upton Park faithful dared to dream.
Saturday 14 September, 1996
The dream lasted another 34 minutes. A typically robust tackle from Wimbledon's midfield folded Futre like an accordion. He lay prone on the turf clutching his knee. Eventually he hobbled off, wearing the grimace of a man who knew he was done.
There was a feeble attempt to come back. But the game was up.
His last start at any meaningful level of football had seen him upstaged by Efan Ekoku, who powered the Dons to a 2-0 win.
The end
Alongside Futre, Romanians Ilie Dumitrescu and Florin Raducioiu had proved unmitigated disasters. After the embarrassment of Marco Boogers the season before, Harry Redknapp decided to postpone his foreign shopping trips.
Faced with near-certain relegation, he rolled the dice on two domestic signings. Paul Kitson and John Hartson arrived from Newcastle and Arsenal respectively. Their goals saved West Ham from the drop.
The sun finally set on Paulo Futre's career during another injury-hit spell with Yokohama Flugels. His spell at Upton Park had been brief but wholly memorable.
He'd given West Ham fans a reason to dream the impossible, only to see it fade and die.
Football can be a cruel mistress.
Bio: Sid Lambert is a historical football writer, who recently released his new book Cashing In: the story Ray Cash, a 19-year-old footballer making his way through the murky world of the Premier League back in 1992, when football changed forever. You can buy it here.
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No Westfield barriers for Athletics fans
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 6th August 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have asked Westfield Stratford to explain why barriers erected to prevent access from the shopping centre to the Olympic Stadium have been removed for the Athletics World Championships. Hammers fans making their way from Stratford Station to the stadium last season were used to having to traipse around the perimeter of the shopping mall, as temporary barriers were installed prior to every match preventing supporters from taking the most natural and obvious routes through the shopping centre. However a number of supporters have expressed their annoyance this weekend after it was revealed that the barriers have not been installed for the Championships, which are taking place between 4-13 August.
Follow
Tom Peck ✔ @tompeck
The route past @WestfieldStrat shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke.
6:29 PM - Aug 4, 2017
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Naturally, this has been viewed as discriminatory by a good number of West Ham supporters, some of whom have asked Westfield to provide an explanation for the decision to install barriers for football fans only.
* As a result of the Championships taking place in Stratford, West Ham have asked the Football League for their second round tie to be played away from home. The draw is scheduled to take place later this week.
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