West Ham Ladies step up search for new Head Coach
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies are actively seeking a new Head Coach ahead of what is expected to be hugely important period for the Club. The Hammers Ladies are bidding for a place in the FA Women's Super League (WSL) when the elite level of the women's game in England restructures ahead of the 2018/19 season and are looking for the coach to continue to take the Club forward. Having progressed to the latter stages of both the FA Women's Premier League Plate and Isthmian League Cup this season, there is also silverware to play for in the short term, so Ladies Managing Director Jack Sullivan is sure an exciting future awaits for the Club.He said: "We are extremely ambitious for the future of West Ham United Ladies and as such we are conducting an extensive and diligent search for our new head coach, who will share our ambitions and vision for the Ladies team. "I believe it is important that we take our time in appointing our new Head Coach. This is an appointment for the long-term and It is vital we bring in the right individual, so we are working closely with our partners in women's football, including the FA, to help us get a world class Head Coach. "Everything at the Club is geared towards taking us to the elite of the women's game, from the training facilities at Rush Green to the help and support of all the departments at West Ham, so this is an important appointment for us to ensure our development on the pitch continues to move forward."
Ladies General Manager Karen Ray added: "The Club has taken huge strides forward both on and off the pitch over the last 18 months and now we are looking to take the next step as we await the decision on the WSL restructure. "We have a highly-professional set up, through all elements of the Club, and with the full support of every department within we pride ourselves on establishing a solid infrastructure for long term success. "It is an exciting time for West Ham United Ladies and that will be reflected in our robust recruiting process."
If you are an elite level coach who is interested in the role, please click here for more information.
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Fonte: I'm eager to go again and help the team be successful
WHUFC.com
Jose Fonte cannot wait to get back out onto the pitch and show what he can do. The Portugal defender is closing in on a return to action after three months out with an ankle injury and is keen to help the Hammers keep their positive run going. West Ham have enjoyed an unbeaten start to 2018, moving up to eleventh in the table, so as Fonte moves back into full training, he says he cannot have timed his return any better. "It's been a while now, three months since I had the injury," he said. "The new manager came in when I got injured, so I haven't had the opportunity to show my abilities and I'm looking forward to coming back and helping the team to succeed. "We have a good momentum and are on a good run and I want to be part of it. I want to win, I want to be successful here and please the fans. I'm eager to go again and work really hard. "I had surgery three months ago and had to wear a boot for four weeks. Then I was on crutches for a further four weeks and had to basically start again building strength in my calf and get the mobility in the ankle. "Now everything is coming into place, I feel great, I feel strong and hope I can have a great second half of the season with the squad and go to the World Cup flying. "I'm thinking for the Wigan game, if the manager and the physios think it's a good idea, I could hopefully get a few minutes. If not, then the next game. I'm here to help and be a part of it."
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Josh Cullen recalls the night he made his Hammers debut
WHUFC.com
Lifelong Hammers fan Josh Cullen remembers the night he made his West Ham United debut in front of a capacity Boleyn Ground crowd...
West Ham United behaved themselves during the 2014/15 Premier League season. Sam Allardyce's players were shown just two red cards and booked 65 times in their 38 top-flight matches, which saw them finish top of the Fair Play League. With English clubs among the three most disciplined in Europe that same season, the Hammers' relatively clean record earned them a place in the 2015/16 UEFA Europa League first qualifying round. There, they were drawn to face Andorran Primera Divisio runners-up FC Lusitans, a club founded as recently as 1999 in the landlocked Pyrenean microstate's capital Andorra La Vella, and whose Estadi Comunal stadium seated just 1,249 spectators.
West Ham would play at home first, though, kicking-off their final season at the Boleyn Ground on the sun-soaked evening of Thursday 2 July. Before the game, newly-appointed manager Slaven Bilic was introduced to the capacity crowd, but it was Terry Westley who would take charge on the night, and the Academy Director was able to name no fewer than eleven graduates in his matchday 18. Among them was 19-year-old substitute Josh Cullen, who had captained the U21s and twice been named on the Premier League bench the previous campaign, but was yet to make his first-team debut. A lifelong West Ham fan, Cullen was born into a Hammers-mad family in the Essex resort of Westcliff-on-Sea and grew up dreaming of pulling on the famous Claret and Blue shirt. "We got into the Europa League through Fair Play, so it was a bit hectic," recalled Cullen, now 21. "At the end of the season before, no-one knew when we were going to be reporting back for pre-season. "I got a message to say I would be back in on the 19 or 20 June and that was really early, but we had to prepare for the first qualifying round. We went to Cork in Ireland and had ten days of pre-season training there to get ready. "It was a big build-up, being a West Ham fan and coming through the Academy, I now had the possibility of playing for my Club in Europe, even if it was only the qualifying rounds. It was a massive thing for me."
Unsurprisingly, given the Hammers had enjoyed a summer break of less than seven weeks between competitive fixtures, and the limited abilities of their opponents, the game was a somewhat slow-paced affair. It took 40 minutes for West Ham to break the deadlock, doing so when Diafra Sakho acrobatically headed in Mauro Zarate's right-wing cross from six yards. And it was 2-0 before half-time when Morgan Amalfitano cut the ball back for the Senegalese striker to convert.
Another Essex boy, James Tomkins, added a third just before the hour-mark, and that was the cue for Westley to call for Cullen to end his warm-up and get ready for action. "Terry told me at half-time that I'd be going on ten or 15 minutes after the break, so then the butterflies started and I was itching to get out there. When I got the shout to put my shirt on, it was something I had dreamt of my whole life. "I got on for half-an-hour at the end and, as a boyhood West Ham fan, making my debut at Upton Park was an unbelievable feeling. We were 3-0 up at the time, but I wanted to come on and make an impression and do myself justice.
"I hit the crossbar as well, which I'll always been a bit annoying about as it didn't dip into the net, but it was great to be out there in front of a packed stadium. That's a memory I'll never forget. "It was a special occasion. We had a game on 2 July and the team we were playing against hardly had any fans, so the stadium was literally full of 35,000 West Ham fans. "Slaven was unveiled before the game and that was the first game of what was a cracking season for West Ham."
Cullen has since gone on to appear in the Premier League, captain the Republic of Ireland U21s, win Players' Player of the Year for loan club Bradford City and face Juventus at London Stadium, but it will take something special to beat the night he wore a West Ham shirt for the first time. "Everyone was there! Quite a few of my family are Season Ticket Holders anyway, then I had some other family members and friends and, of course, my missus. "I didn't have to run home like Mark Noble, thankfully. My family got the train down and then they all jumped in my car after the game for a lift home. "That was strange for my Dad and my brother as we'd been standing on the other side of the gates to the Players' Car Park not too many years before, trying to get autographs through the fence! "Being West Ham fans all our lives, it was a strange feeling and a bit surreal having fans asking me to sign things, as I didn't feel any different than anyone else. "To get on for a decent amount of time, have a little run around and get on the ball at Upton Park was a special moment for sure. "It was a great memory, the whole night, and if I could go back and relive it all again, I would."
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New Head of Fitness Nick Davies relishing Hammers return
WHUFC.com
A new but familiar figure has taken his seat in the West Ham United dugout in recent weeks. Eight-and-a-half years after leaving the Hammers in his previous spell, Nick Davies is back on the east Londoners' training pitch as Head of Fitness. Davies is relishing being back at the Club under manager David Moyes, and has got stuck straight into the role as the Hammers look to climb the Premier League table. "It's a multi-faceted role," he explained. "Ultimately, the preparation of the players for training and matches is a key ingredient in that. "From pre-activation work to warm-ups to individual conditioning to their recovery strategies and the nutritional side of it, it's a never-ending spectrum of work which underpins the physical performance of the players. "That's something which we're striving to continue to improve, which all clubs are doing all the time, and we feel like the sports science impact can really have a big effect in ensuring the players are as prepared as they can possibly be."
Much is made of the intensity of the Premier League and, depending on which pundit you listen to or website you read, how it is the 'best', 'most physical' and 'fastest' league in the world. Regardless of whether those claims are true or not, Davies says the English game has changed hugely since he first began working in the top flight more than a decade ago. "It is true to say the physical outputs which these players are producing now have changed over the last ten years and certainly the sprint and high intensity work they do in games now is higher than it was then. "It has really increased and you only have to look at players' body shapes now to see that. They are explosive, dynamic, sprinter types. There are not too many players who plod around the pitch any longer! "Footballers are athletes and we're always trying to push the boundaries and raise the bar as to what we can get out of these guys so they are as well prepared on matchdays as they can possibly be."
Despite the increase in intensity, players still come in all shapes and sizes, with a James Collins needing a different fitness plan to a Manuel Lanzini, for example. Davies says the challenge for him is to work out how to maximise the physical output of each and every player, regardless of their makeup. "The shapes and position that they play in means tailored programmes are required, which is why everyone gets their individual plan as well as their core quality work which they all must do. "Certainly, the individualised stuff is becoming more and more apparent in the planning of the players' training weeks." Manager Moyes has repeatedly stated his demand for players to run if they want to be part of his team in the future. Davies has found the squad have responded well to this demand and are putting in the hard yards at Rush Green with a view to being involved on matchdays. "The work they have done with the coaching staff puts high demands on players and there is a high expectancy over what they want from them. "Certainly, the reaction I have seen has been overwhelmingly positive and, ultimately, professional people want to work hard, they want to be pushed and they want to develop. "The manager's ethos means there is no hiding place and they have to step up to the mark if they want to be part of his plans. That's a nice, straightforward way to work."
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Obiang: We fought for each other until the end
WHUFC.com
Pedro Obiang said Saturday's draw against AFC Bournemouth was a case of mind over matter as the Hammers saw off the effects of playing extra-time in their midweek FA Cup replay by coming back to equalise against the Cherries. Bournemouth might have thought they had done enough for the win when Ryan Fraser fired them in front 19 minutes from time at London Stadium, but the Hammers had other ideas and wasted no time in finding their leveller. Chicharito knocked home just 64 seconds after Fraser had opened the scoring and Obiang believed the team's mentality played a big part in securing the point. "I think it was a really good point for us as we were very tired after playing the cup game in midweek," the No14 explained. "We suffered, we ran a lot, we fought for each other and in the end we took an important point. We need more, but we have to be happy to take one. "In the first half we played better, and in the second half they had more chances than us, but it was important for us that the first half was really nice. "The strikers believe they can do it and you could see the result [in us equalising straight away]. We are improving as a team. "Even if we are feeling tired we keep strong until the end, and we are all in the same mindset."
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AWAYS DAYS: WIGAN ATHLETIC
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 23 JANUARY 2018 AT 8:34PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Craig Podevin @craigpodevin
1 loss in 9 is impressive and we have another favourable draw in the FA Cup. Although Moyes claims it's not a priority, the team selection for Shrewsbury and some key substitutions (Arnautovic coming on mainly) shows that he does have some interest in it. More than Big Sam v Nottingham Forest anyway! Hopefully we can be singing 'Marko's on fire' rather than Wigan singing 'Will Grigg's on fire'!
General information:
Stadium: DW Stadium
Capacity: 25,023
Address: Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UZ
Away seating: Normally 4,800
The DW Stadium has been Wigan's home since 1999 and has been shared with Wigan Warriors Rugby League club. It's made up of four single tiered stands that are all approximately the same height, but are also quite steep meaning fans sitting in the back rows are still fairly close, however the stands themselves are quite far from the pitch.
Travel:
Train
The 2 central train stations for Wigan are Wigan North Western and Wallgate. These are both about 20 minutes from the ground, so you can either walk (and stop at the later-mentioned pubs!) or get a taxi to the ground.
From Wigan North Western, turn left and follow the road under the railway bridge. If you are going to Wallgate, turn right and you will also walk past Wigan North Western on your left. From here it is fairly straightforward, keep following the road until it forks near a Dominos Pizza shop. Stick to the right carrying on past topps Tiles on your right. You will reach a bridge over a canal, and from there you should be able to see the DW Stadium on your right. You can either turn right from this bridge and follow the local fans, or continue under another railway bridge then turn right into Frith Road which leads to the stadium.
Car
Leave the M6 at Junction 25 to the A49 towards Wigan. After approximately 2 ½ miles you will pass a junction on the left with the 1577 and approach a large roundabout that has a McDonalds. Continue straight over the roundabout but keep in the left lane. At the lights, be in the left hand filter lane by Asda. Continue straight on pass the Red Robin pub on the right, at the next roundabout go straight and the next traffic lights turn right into stadium way.
Parking
The ground has a large car park specifically for the use of away fans. This costs £5 per car or motorbike, £10 for mini-busses or £20 for coaches. As expected, after the game there can sometimes be a long wait to get out of the car park.
The nearby retail park has a 2 hour limit on parking, so avoid it at all costs as it can leave you with a £50 fine.
Food and drink:
On the concourse at the ground, you are able to purchase food such as Holland Pies including chunky steak, meat and potato and cheese pie which all cost £2.60 and Herta hot dogs available for £2.90. Alcohol is also available on the concourse, with Fosters, Strongbow and John Smiths all costing £3.20 a pint. You can only purchase 2 pints per person due to how busy it can get, there are only 2 counters serving beer the largest of which has a queuing system forced by stewards. The counters that serve alcohol do not serve food.
There's a dedicated bar for away fans called Marquee Bar, with the entrance near the away turnstiles. It sells pies, teas and coffee as well as alcohol and features large screens showing sports.
The traditional pub for away fans is the Red Robin, which is a few minutes' walk from the stadium opposite the cinema complex.
The town centre features a Wetherspoons pub called the Moon Under Water and it's also 20 minutes from the ground. It also features the Anvil pub near the bus station, both pubs are featured on the CAMRA good beer guide.
Near the railway station is Berkeley on Wallgate, which has mixed fans and serves five real ales.
Stay safe throughout the day, it's a long journey! Support the lads and let's work our way towards an FA cup! Come On You Irons! -@CraigPodevin
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Find me a new club, orders Hernandez
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 23rd January 2018
By: Staff Writer
Javier Hernandez has instructed his agent to find him a new club - after becoming frustrated at being frozen out at West Ham. The Mexican international has spent just six months at West Ham since moving to London in a £16million switch from Bayer Leverkusen last summer - but is seeking a new challenge having failed to secure a first team spot at the club under either Slaven Bilic or David Moyes. "There are a number of clubs interested in his services," agent Eduardo Hernandez told Fox Sports. "He's a player everyone knows and is incredibly professional. "Our primary focus is a club in which he can play the most games possible. That's the most important. Javier has personally asked for it. "He's commented, stated and demanded that we look for a club that really needs a player with his characteristics because what he wants is to play and play and play."
News of Hernandez's desire to find a new club comes hot on the heels of the revelation that fellow striker Andy Carroll is set to be sidelined for the next three months with his latest injury. The Hammers are also reported to have rejected a £12million bid for forward Andre Ayew from former club Swansea at the weekend - although there is no movement currently regarding Diafra Sakho, the one player Moyes and the club would happily sell.
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West Ham trio Andy Carroll, Manuel Lanzini and Marko Arnautovic set for spells on sidelines
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 23/01/18 11:21am
SSN
West Ham have been hit by a triple injury blow with Andy Carroll, Manuel Lanzini and Marko Arnautovic set for spells on the sidelines, according to Sky sources.
Carroll, who recently attracted interest from Chelsea, will be out for the next three months after undergoing surgery on a broken foot on Monday. Lanzini has been ruled out for a minimum of a month after limping off with a hamstring problem during the second half of West Ham's 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday. While Arnautovic, who has scored six goals in his last 10 matches, has also picked up a hamstring injury and will miss the next three weeks. Javier Hernandez and Toni Martinez are currently West Ham's only fully-fit forwards, with Diafra Sakho, Andre Ayew and Michail Antonio working their way back to fitness. Sky Sports News understands West Ham had been willing to listen to offers for Hernandez, while the Mexico forward's agent suggested on Monday that his client was open to a move away.
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Javier Hernandez open to move away from West Ham, says forward's agent
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 23/01/18 10:36am
SSN
Javier Hernandez is open to a move away from West Ham less than six months after signing for the club, according to the Mexico forward's agent. Hernandez joined the Hammers from German side Bayer Leverkusen for £16m in July, but has since struggled for consistency and scored five times in 21 appearances. Sky Sports News understands West Ham are willing to listen to offers for the 29-year-old, whose latest goal was the equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth last Saturday after replacing the injured Manuel Lanzini. Hernandez has started just once in the Premier League since David Moyes was appointed West Ham manager in November and, according to his agent, is keen to secure more first-team football ahead of this summer's World Cup. "There are a number of clubs interested in his services, he's a player everyone knows and is incredibly professional," Eduardo Hernandez told FOX Sports. "Our primary focus is a club in which [Chicharito] can play the most games possible. That's the most important. "Javier has asked personally for it. He's commented, stated and demanded that we look for a club that really needs a player with his characteristics because what he wants is to play and play and play."
Hernandez may be denied his chance to move with Lanzini's hamstring injury reportedly ruling him out for up to six weeks while Andy Carroll could also be sidelined for three months with a hairline fracture in his foot.
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Slaven Bilic explains Dimitri Payet's West Ham exit on Monday Night Football
Last Updated: 22/01/18 11:52pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic describes what it was like having to deal with player power and having his star player Dimitri Payet wanting to leave West Ham. Slaven Bilic explained to Monday Night Football he had to let Dimitri Payet leave West Ham because of the affect the player's desire to leave was having on the club. Payet enjoyed a brilliant debut season with the Hammers, winning the club's player of the season award, but things turned sour during his second season in east London with the Frenchman refusing to play as he looked to force through a return to Marseille. The Frenchman eventually secured a £25m move to his former club and Bilic, a guest on MNF for Swansea's 1-0 win over Liverpool, revealed he had to take action because of the affect the situation was having on the dressing room.
"With Dimitri he had a great season," the former West Ham boss said. "He enjoyed it and was brilliant on the pitch, off the pitch and in the dressing room. He was vocal in a good way, having fun and mixing with all the players. "In the second season he was doing everything right on the pitch but he just wanted to go. He had some private problems and wanted to go. "Of course, at that moment I tried to persuade him to stay because he was our best player. He was very liked by the other players and giving us that something extra. "The club wanted him to stay, I got that message from the board as well so we were on the same wavelength and we wanted to improve. We didn't want to lose our best players. He added: "I tried to persuade him [to stay] and spoke to him a few times but when it came to the point that it started to damage the dressing room and the players started asking what was going on, then I had to react. "I spoke with the board and unfortunately you have to draw the line."
Bilic's comments on the Payet situation came on the same day that Manchester United completed the signing of Alexis Sanchez in a swap deal with Arsenal that sees Henrikh Mkhitaryan move to the Emirates. Bilic thinks it is now players and agents that hold all the power when it comes to transfers in football. When asked if it is the players that hold all the power, he said: "Absolutely. You still have some clubs in Europe that are bigger than the players. "Those are clubs with a history of being hard clubs, like Juventus. No Juve player is bigger than the club. Manchester United is also a club like that. "The clubs who are getting good players because they have a bit of money but are not big, big clubs, the players soon become bigger than the club. "Today, players and agents are basically dictating to the clubs," he added. "The clubs and the agents have to work together and as a manger you are almost depending on them. "It's a very complex job but at the end of the day you are in football. You are doing what you want to do and when you win it's unbelievable. Of course when you lose you are down but you are well paid for it."
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THE TRANSFER WINDOW, AN INJURY CRISIS AND OUR NOBLE CAPTAIN
By Tony Hanna 23 Jan 2018 at 08:00
WTID
With only fourteen games remaining of the Premier League season just six points separate the ten teams sitting between 10th and rock bottom of the table. It is no wonder there is so much pressure every time any of these teams play each other. Every game seems like a six pointer. A couple of wins or a couple of losses on the bounce can make a huge difference. We are currently unbeaten this year and have reached the heady heights of 11th but things can change so quickly that there must be no room for complacency. Despite our lofty position we are just four points clear of the relegation zone.
Last week I gave my thoughts on the blog that a win against Bournemouth could influence the Board to keep their transfer powder dry in this January window. The extra buffer an additional two points would have provided may have allowed us to play a stronger eleven than what will now, in all probability, be selected for the Wigan cup game. However, with just one point gained on the weekend together with fresh injury concerns, David Moyes focus may have shifted back to adding a player or two to his depleted squad. With three games in eight days looming again, two of which are six pointers, I think the team for the Cup game will now have a strong influence of fringe and U23 players. The latest injury news suggests Lanzini will be out for at least 6 weeks and Arnautovic a minimum of three. Isn't it just our luck that as soon as we start to see a brilliant attacking partnership develop we lose both players to hamstring injuries? To make things worse Andy Carroll is missing again and is likely to need surgery, there is the mystery injury to Antonio and together with an unreliable Sakho our attacking options are becoming quite limited. Even Ayew missed squad selection on the weekend due to injury.
On the bright side I thought our first 25 minutes against Bournemouth saw us play some of our best football for quite some time. The interchange of passing and one touch stuff was very easy on the eye. But as is often the case if you don't convert your ascendancy into goals the opposition normally find a way to get back into the game. The visitors certainly finished the stronger and a point apiece was probably a fair result. David Moyes has suggested that Joe Hart will get his opportunity again this season and I do wonder if the England keeper were to have a good game at Wigan, whether he may be in the running to take over from Adrian in the PL team? There may be an argument that Adrian was at fault for the Bournemouth goal, or at least he should have done better. Personally, I would like to think that Adrian deserves a bit more of a go – I really don't see Hart being at the club next season. Mind you, I was very disappointed to see Adrian flicking the ball up in the air before volleying away when being pressed during Saturdays match. It smacked of old bad habits returning and the sort of antics that I am sure will not go down well with our current manager.
One thing that did go down well, with me anyway, were some comments from Mark Noble a week or so ago in a Daily Mail interview. "I've known these people since I first came to the club. I want the very best for this club. I make sure, out of the players' bonus, every staff member shares in that bonus. We can't do it without them." Mark was referring to the back room staff at the club and even the chef and Shirley in the kitchen. Now he is a very good player but I wish Mark was as good a footballer as he is a bloke because we would have a Messi or Ronaldo on our hands. It is lovely to see some good old fashioned values still exist in a game where greed more often grabs the headlines nowadays.
So, onto the bookies updates. It has been a much more difficult window to try and predict than usual – especially as nothing has happened for us so far! The winter window markets are always less reliable than the summer window markets and this year it seems even more difficult. My own view is that if we are to persist with a January window it should be reduced to a much shorter timeframe. The biggest argument for a winter transfer window is so clubs can buy replacements to cover long term injuries in key positions. If a two week window was in place I am sure the same deals would still get done but with much less of the hassle and uncertainty it brings to many clubs. I know deals can be complex and hard to do, but I am sure they would still get done if the alternative meant the agent misses out altogether!
Relegation The bookies seem to think we are safe and have us at 14/1 (6.67%) for relegation with ten other teams more likely to go down than us. Those odds may well tighten up on the back of our latest injury news. As for player transfers;
Andre Ayew is an even money chance (50%) to join old club Swansea. He has had a mixed spell with West Ham and one of the problems is where does the player fit or more pertinently, what is his best position? With our current injury problems I doubt we would entertain him leaving unless we had another striker lined up as a replacement. The market does suggest that a deal may be on the cards though.
Javier Hernandez – ditto above regarding a suitable replacement, but there has been money for Chico to move to Besiktas. He is still 1-3 (75%) to remain a Hammer.
Jonjo Shelvey is now odds on to stay with Newcastle. The current price of 2/1 (33%) for the move South does suggest a deal could still be done though. If rumours are to be believed the player would welcome the switch but the Geordies would want to sign his replacement first.
Michy Batshuayi is at 9/1 (10%) to join West Ham from Chelsea and this deal looks dead in the water now. I think any real chance of that transfer happening was on the back of Carroll going the other way.
Two players who are rumoured to be possible targets but are not listed with the bookies are Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario and Leander Dendoncker from Anderlecht.
A note to our Australian readers. The Wigan cup tie is being shown live on Foxsports ch1508 ESPN
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West Ham run the rule over Real Betis' Fabian as Leander Dendoncker slides down their list
The Telegraph
Matt Law, football news correspondent
23 JANUARY 2018 • 5:30PM
West Ham United are considering making a bid for Real Betis midfielder Fabián Ruiz after David Moyes watched him play against Barcelona. West Ham's manager was at Barcelona's 5-0 thrashing of Betis last Sunday to run the rule over Ruiz and Andre Gomes. But having been told Gomes is out of his reach, Moyes is now deliberating over whether or not to make an offer for Fabián. Moyes is desperate to add a midfielder to his squad before the transfer window shuts next week, but has reservations over whether or not 21-year-old Fabián would make an immediate impact. Gomes was a Tottenham Hotspur target last summer, but is expected to stay at the Nou Camp until the end of the season after forcing his way back into Barça's team. While Moyes was in Spain, West Ham's assistant manager Stuart Pearce watched Anderlecht's Leander Dendoncker but the trip proved to be wasted as he played in defence.
Dendoncker had been identified by director of player recruitment Tony Henry, but the fact he has been playing at the back has pushed the 22-year-old down West Ham's list of midfield targets. Jonjo Shelvey is another midfielder West Ham have considered and Newcastle United's move to sign Kenedy on loan from Chelsea opened up the prospect of his exit. But Shelvey is in no rush to leave Newcastle and it remains to be seen whether or not West Ham are prepared to push hard enough to get the former England international.
Meanwhile, the agent of Javier Hernández, Eduardo Hernández, has revealed the striker is keen to quit West Ham before the transfer window shuts. "There are a number of clubs interested in his services, he's a player everyone knows and is incredibly professional," said Edurado Hernández. "Our primary focus is a club in which [Chicharito] can play the most games possible. That's the most important. "Javier has asked personally for it. He's commented, stated and demanded that we look for a club that really needs a player with his characteristics because what he wants is to play and play and play."
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West Ham to pay Joao Mario wages
By Football Italia staff
West Ham United are reportedly willing to pay Joao Mario's wages, but they don't want to pay Inter to loan him. The Portuguese midfielder is out of favour under Coach Luciano Spalletti, but the Nerazzurri have been struggling to find a club to take him this month. Now Sky Italia is reporting that the Hammers have made it clear they're willing to pay his gross salary for the rest of the season, which totals around €2.5m [£2.2m]. The English club are also prepared to pay his agent a €600,000 commission, but they're insisting on a free loan. That deal would include a €30m [£26.4m] option to buy, but it's not clear if the Beneamata will accept a deal which doesn't guarantee them any transfer fee.
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Joao Mario "gives green light" to West Ham move after Inter make Barcelona capture - report
The midfielder has had a change of heart, it seems
Football London
BySam Inkersole
West Ham Correspondent
18:10, 23 JAN 2018
Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario looks to have changed his mind and has instructed his agent to give the green light for a loan move to West Ham, according to reports in Italy. According to Calciomercato, the Hammers and Inter are still locked in negotiations over a loan move until the end of the season but the Portugeuse star has given the go ahead to a move, despite initially ruling it out. What might have changed his mind is that his current club, Inter Milan, announced on Monday the signing of Barcelona midfielder Rafinha, a move which would diminish further hopes of playing time for Joao Mario and that has been the straw that has broken the camels back. The Portugal international wants more game time and now believes he will get that at the London Stadium as opposed to staying at the San Siro for the remainder of this season at least. The report claims the two sides, along with Mario's agent Kia Joorabchian, are trying to broker a deal that will see the midfielder head to east London on loan for the rest of the season with an option to buy at the end of it. Calciomercato claim that if the deal was done now, it would cost €28 million to sign the midfielder permanently at the end of it. That could be reduced to €22 million if that happens in 2019, with Inter keen to shift Mario's €6 million-a-year salary off the books. Italian transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio has also said the Hammers have agreed to pay his full €2.5m wages and a €400,000 agent fee but is reluctant to pay the €1.5m loan fee. He also wants an option to buy permanently for €30m after the loan finished. The midfielder has failed to settle in the Italian city since his move from Sporting Lisobon in the summer for a whopping £39.8m.
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WEST HAM SET TO FINALLY LAND MIDFIELD TARGET IN £12M DEAL THIS WEEKFeatured Image
Date: 23rd January 2018 at 7:46pm
Written by: Josh Challies
Forever WestHam
West Ham face a busy week ahead as they seek to bolster their squad for the relegation battle that lies ahead but an exciting boost looks to be right around the corner. The Express reports that the Hammers are set to finally agree a deal with Newcastle United to bring Jonjo Shelvey to the club for £12m, providing a significant boost to both squads. Newcastle are also looking to improve their ranks in the January transfer window but lack the finances to complete deals, whilst West Ham are desperately looking to improve their midfield options for the challenges that lie ahead. West Ham have been eyeing the services of the England international throughout the January window but have struggled to negotiate a deal, though it appears that there is finally a breakthrough in discussions. The Hammers would benefit from the ability that Shelvey possesses and he'd certainly be an upgrade on Moyes' current options.
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LANDING HIGHLY-RATED BELGIAN INTERNATIONAL WOULD BE SUPERB FOR WEST HAMFeatured Image
Date: 23rd January 2018 at 8:27pm
Written by: Josh Challies
Forever WestHam
West Ham continue to search the market for a talented new midfielder in the January transfer window and a number of names have been linked with a move to East London, with a range of values, ages and abilities. The Hammers have found it difficult to find the ideal target, having seen a number of approaches knocked back, but an exciting move may materialise in the form of Belgian international Leander Dendoncker, who's been linked with a move.
Anderlecht will command a high price for the 22-year-old, capped four times by his national side, but West Ham would benefit from his ability in midfield and the fact that he can develop into a top-class player is a massive boost. The Hammers have quite an ageing squad, although signs of adjustment have been shown, and Dendoncker would fit the bill perfectly- providing an immediate boost as well as having the ability to prove to be worth a fortune in the future. Dendoncker has been chased by some big names in recent months, which shows how highly he's valued, and beating top sides to his signature would be another big statement of intent for a West Ham side looking to evolve following their move to the London Stadium.
At 22, Dendoncker is at the age where he can become a superb asset to West Ham but the danger is putting too much pressure on him too soon, although that is unlikely to be an immediate problem due to the experience that the Hammers currently have within their squad. If West Ham are to land a new midfielder in the final eight days of the transfer window, then Dendoncker should be the target that is prioritised.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, January 24
Tuesday, January 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd January 2018
Sir Geoff Hurst pays tribute to fellow World Cup winner Jimmy Armfield
WHUFC.com
West Ham United legend Sir Geoff Hurst has paid tribute to fellow 1966 FIFA
World Cup winner and England teammate Jimmy Armfield, who has passed away at
the age of 82. Armfield was a member of the 22-man squad which lifted the
Jules Rimet Trophy at Wembley 52 years ago, when Hammers trio Sir Geoff,
Bobby Moore and Martin Peters played an influential role in the Three Lions'
historic success. The full-back, who spent his entire professional career
with Blackpool, for whom he came up against West Ham many times in both the
First Division and FA Cup in the 1950s and 1960s. An outstanding defender
and leader, he was capped 43 times and skippered his country on 15 occasions
between 1961-66, preceding Moore as England captain. And Sir Geoff, who led
the line in Armfield's final game for his country, a 3-0 pre-World Cup win
in Finland, and retained huge affection for a man with whom he also shared a
birthplace, the Greater Manchester town of Ashton-under-Lyne. "Jimmy was the
established full-back prior to the World Cup and then George (Cohen) came
in, and Alf wanted to pick George," Sir Geoff told the BBC. "He always dealt
with it with great dignity, that's typical of Jimmy. "It must have been a
huge blow not playing at that time and in the Final. But dealing with it
over the years, there was never any bitterness, he was always part of the
squad and turned up at most of the golf days. "That could easily happen to a
player who was unhappy with that part of his life, but he continued to be
part of that group right up until the last year or two."
After hanging up his boots in 1971, Armfield managed Bolton Wanderers and
Leeds United, leading the latter to the European Cup final in 1975, before
working as a consultant to the Football Association and as a popular
journalist and expert summariser for the BBC and a number of newspapers. He
was made an OBE in 2000 for his services to football and a CBE for his
services to the community in his native Lancashire in 2010. Everyone at West
Ham United would like to pass on their sincere condolences to Jimmy's loved
ones at this sad time.
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Masuaku: A full week will mean we're ready for Wigan
WHUFC.com
Arthur Masuaku says a full week of rest, recovery and preparation will serve
West Ham United well ahead of their Emirates FA Cup fourth-round trip to
Wigan Athletic. The Hammers looked a little leggy in the closing stages of
Saturday's 1-1 Premier League draw with AFC Bournemouth at London Stadium –
hardly surprising when you consider David Moyes' injury-hit squad were
playing for the sixth time in 19 days, including a 120-minute FA Cup
marathon against Shrewsbury Town last Tuesday evening. And Masuaku, who has
played all but 17 of a possible 1,350 minutes since mid-November, says a
free midweek has come just at the right time. "We have been busy," he said.
"I think we were all a bit tired after 60 or 65 minutes against Bournemouth,
so it's important to have some rest now and get ready for the next round of
the FA Cup at Wigan on Saturday."
Despite their tired legs, the Hammers recovered from falling a goal behind
just 19 minutes from time on Saturday, equalising within 64 seconds through
substitute Chicharito. Masuaku felt his team were good value for their
point, particularly after forcing Bournemouth goalkeeper Asmir Begovic into
a number of vital saves when the game was still goalless. "We played pretty
well in the first half and then after we dropped a little bit and they
scored. I don't think they deserved to score, but we reacted straight away
and scored, so it's a good point as we were the best team. "Bournemouth have
a good, strong team, but we also have a good team, so the point is a good
one. "We had a few chances but we didn't score. The thing is, we need to be
more aggressive in front of the goal and we must score. But we got a point,
at least, so this is what we have to think about."
The left wing-back was again to the fore himself against the Cherries,
completing 85.7% of his passes and putting in six crosses as the Hammers
dominated for long periods, particularly in the opening 45 minutes. A
constant outlet, the No26 also provided support at the defensive end of the
pitch, repeatedly bringing lifting the pressure on his team with his ability
to run at pace with the ball at his feet. Masuaku has become one of the
first names on Moyes' teamsheet and is eager to repay his manager's faith,
and that of the West Ham supporters, over the closing months of the season.
"The manager has just given me confidence. Last year I was injured so I
couldn't play and couldn't show my best. Now, since he came, he has given me
the opportunity to play and I just try to give him back the confidence that
he has given me. That's it. "I also want to show my best to the fans on the
pitch. I need to keep well and try to get some assists and goals."
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Zabaleta hails 'true professional' Chicharito
WHUFC.com
Pablo Zabaleta has hailed the Impact of 'true professional' Chicharito after
the Mexican scored West Ham United's equaliser in the 1-1 draw with
Bournemouth.
Chicharito came off the bench in the 64th minute of Saturday's contest with
the Cherries and would net the Hammers' goal less than ten minutes later,
slotting home after some excellent interplay with Marko Arnautovic. The
finish came 64 seconds after Bournemouth had taken the lead, thanks to a
Ryan Fraser effort at the near post, marking Chicharito's fifth goal of the
season for the Irons. And Zabaleta has praised the 29-year-old's work rate
and focus during training, saying the attacker did exactly what he needed to
do after entering the fray. "Chicharito is a true professional," Zabaleta
said after the match. "Even though he's not played as much as he would like
recently he's kept training well and he's remained focused. He's been a
great professional. "This is what you need from substitutes. He came on and
made a big impact in the game and he scored today. It was a great finish
from Chicharito."
The defender also had kind words for Manuel Lanzini, who put in a strong
performance before exiting the field with what looked to be an injury. On
his fellow Argentinian, he added: Hopefully, it's not too bad. We need to
wait for the scan. Manuel is one of the most important players for our team
and he played 120 minutes on Tuesday. Players like him make so many sprints
during the game."
Zabaleta was delighted with how his side began Saturday's contest but admits
he and his teammates were suffering from fatigue as the game came to a
close.
"I thought we were really good for the first half an hour of the game," he
continued. "We were really intense and we created a few chances. We couldn't
score and the second half was similar for about 20 minutes, but then the
rest we looked a bit tired." "I thought we put so much effort in during the
game and some of the players played 120 minutes in midweek. Apart from this
it was a good game. Both teams had chances. A point is a point and
sometimes, when you can't win, you have to try to get something."
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A MISSED JANUARY OPPORTUNITY?
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 22 JANUARY 2018 AT 9:15PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @StevenMcCarthy9
I really hope I am wrong about this at the end of the season, but I think
failing to secure early signings in January could well be a massive wasted
opportunity to leave the teams around us behind, and push up the table more
than we have done! We performed really well going forward against
Huddersfield, however there were some cracks that were glossed over by the
nature of the final score. The 2 main issues I see in terms of the squad are
in our midfield and sheer lack of depth with an injury prone squad.
No bones about it, yesterday against Bournemouth, we dropped 2 points. We
had all the opportunities to go 2 or 3 goals up, however we couldn't finish
them off successfully. This happens in football, but I think the owners are
playing a dangerous game by waiting for moves when we are playing teams
around us! Upcoming fixtures against Brighton and Watford are 6 pointers,
and we may well have missed an opportunity to go into these games with a
bolstered and settled squad, unknown entities and the ability to rotate our
squad with more than youth players.
The central midfield issue is glaringly obvious and it is one that has
bitten us in the backside numerous times this season. Kouyate's season is
something that I think has been covered enough both in articles and the
excellent West Ham Way Radio Show (free little un forced plug for you guys
there!) but it is blindingly obvious that he has been either killed and
replaced by his doppelgänger, or he simply had a Jason Bourne esque accident
and has lost all his skills instead of his memory!
Yesterday was without a doubt his best game of the season, he charged
forward and he showed far more desire and effort than he has in every single
match of the season combined. But I wonder if buying a Central midielder
earlier in the window could have inspired this dramatic change sooner,
whilst also offering us an option to change our style of play.
We have a great attacking line up, on our day – but when you have the injury
prone players of Carroll, Sakho and Ayew. Combined with the seemingly long
term injury of Antonio (that was inevitably coming).
We are now reliant on 2 strikers for consistent options, one of who'm is an
incredibly well performing player who's natural role is on the wing! And the
other is a striker who appears low in confidence, not entirely rated by our
manager and at a loss in our system. A goal from him yesterday is vital for
us and the team! Had we lost yesterday, combined with our robbery away at
Bournemouth, I think morale would have been seriously low on and off the
pitch.
What I thought before the Bournemouth game, was that we needed to spend on a
striker and central midfielder (I can hear the laughs already). But with
Lanzini's injury and a rumoured Carroll spell on the sidelines we now need
to lengthen the list…..Lanzini has been vital for us over his seasons at the
club, and our recent points and positive performances have largely been down
to him and Arnie's link up play. With Lanzini out, we now have to change our
system or spend on a similar creative player and I wonder if signing sooner
in the window would have been the much smarter option for us!
I'm @StevenMcCarthy9 and let's all get behind the team and hope we can climb
up the table!
COYI's!!!!
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IT'S HAPPENING AGAIN…..
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 22 JANUARY 2018 AT 9:30PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Kevin Slade @KevinSladeSDCC
Here we go again… Twenty two days into the January transfer window and still
no activity as of yet. Although David Moyes has expressed his intent to
strengthen in certain areas, nothing has remotely suggested that we're in
the transfer market to add to the current squad – apart from a few rumours.
I've said in previous articles that the January window in particular is an
all round headache; It's extremely difficult to get a player out of their
current club at this stage of the season unless you're paying over the odds.
In the current market the inflation on transfers has given clubs outside of
the top 6 very little hope to sign a top quality player without spending a
ludicrous amount of money. Let's not forget, signing a player isn't as easy
as calling the chairman of another club and bidding £30m for a player. We
have to take the transfer fee, signing on fees, player wages, bonuses, and
most frustratingly, agent fees all into consideration. Agents play the most
integral part of any transfer in football, and as a result (in my opinion),
it has ruined the game. Example:- The Alexis Sanchez transfer to Manchester
United from Arsenal is supposedly going to amount up to over £600m in total
which includes his wages over the 3 year contract which has been offered to
him. At least £50m of that figure is believed to be in agent fees, which
brings me to my point at hand. £50m in agent fees! We don't even have that
type money for a transfer fee. So what hope does that give us as supporters
when we desperately need additions to the current squad?
It's no mystery that we're crying out for a central midfielder. William
Carvalho, anyone? Or how about Samir Nasri? I roll my eyes at some of the
names that are being touted about this month!
As much as people give him stick, Nobes is and has been our best midfielder
this season & has shown us just how much we've missed him when he hasn't
played. I think it's time to move on Kouyate in the summer as he's been
woeful for the past eighteen months, and Obiang has been out of sorts &
incredibly inconsistent this season. The recall of Cullen and Oxford tells
me that the board aren't looking to invest heavily this window, however, Ex
mentioned today via twitter that there could be movement with Jonjo Shelvey
should Newcastle secure one of their targets, which looks to have moved a
step closer today. Shelvey is a player that I've always liked, and think he
would be a decent addition to the squad. He has that bite that we currently
lack in the centre & the determination to win a ball. He can also pick a
pass going forward which is what we have also lacked in the centre this
season. However I do think we should be aiming a bit higher with a signing
for this position come the summer.
Leander Dendoncker is another player that's been mentioned in the past week
or so. A central midfielder I don't know much about, but has a big
reputation & has four caps for Belgium and champions league experience. At
6'3, my intuitive is he could be a replacement for Kouyate should we decide
to move him on.
Another position we need to be looking at is a new face for the frontline.
Earlier today it was confirmed that Andy Carroll will miss the rest of the
season after a scan revealed he has a broken foot. I've always been a big
fan of Andy, but I'm afraid my patience has finally ran out with him after a
plethora of injuries. There's absolutely no question that there's no player
in world football in the mould of Caz, but he just can't complete a full
season which has always been so frustrating. For the wage that he's earning
with the handful of games he plays a season, Personally I think it's time to
move him on in the summer and concentrate on accommodating Chicharito – give
him the right service, he will give you goals in abundance. But of course,
it costs money to employ a player of that ilk.
It's also time for Sakho to leave as his petulance is wearing for everyone,
so this will leave us with very little options.
It's been very quiet, but here's to hoping that the board delve into their
pockets and show us some ambition. Whether it be now, or in the summer…
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Slaven Bilic: Changing manager may not satisfy fans in long term
Last Updated: 22/01/18 8:25pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic has warned that clubs like West Ham will enjoy short-term gains
by changing their manager, but it will be difficult to keep fans happy in
the long term.
Bilic was axed by West Ham earlier this season and replaced by David Moyes,
who has picked up 17 points from 13 matches so far and seen the team climb
to 11th in the Premier League table Watford became the eighth top-flight
team to change manager this season when they replaced Marco Silva with Javi
Gracia on Sunday - and all of the previous seven have seen their
points-per-game improve under their new boss.
Bilic feels the new managers have succeeded by adopting a "back-to-basics"
approach - but does not feel that is sustainable. "It's one of the biggest
reasons why clubs are changing the managers," he told Monday Night Football.
"It's one of the old cliches, you can't change the mentality, you can't
change 22 players so you change the manager and he takes responsibility.
Unfortunately, it's a part of the job. "I totally agree you are only as good
as your last few games and what is common to all of them [the new managers]
is going back to basics. "When you are struggling, you want a clean sheet
and you don't want to lose games." He added: "It's always easier for a new
face to go back to basics, which is about being on your toes, being
aggressive and all that. "Don't get me wrong. All of them are doing a great
job. I am most interested in West Ham and David Moyes is doing a great job
so far and I wish him all the best. "But all of them have done
back-to-basics type things which is understandable because you need points.
That's one of the reasons why clubs are changing. "But every fan wants his
team to play like Man City or Barcelona. Back to basics long term doesn't
satisfy the fans or the board because people want spectacle."
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West Ham want to sign Leander Dendoncker from Anderlecht
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 22/01/18 12:46pm
SSN
West Ham are very interested in Belgium midfielder Leander Dendoncker, Sky
Sports News understands. Belgian journalist Kristof Terreur of HLN has
reported that Hammers assistant manager Stuart Pearce was in Genk over the
weekend to watch the player in action for Anderlecht in a 1-0 win. The
22-year-old is a Belgium international with four caps following his debut in
2015. He has also made 155 appearances and scored 10 goals for Anderlecht
already in his career. West Ham boss David Moyes has been keen to bolster
his squad in certain areas this month. Sky Sports News understands he feels
he has inherited an unbalanced squad.
The Hammers have been keen to move on a number of attacking players - they
are willing to listen to offers Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho -
and want to sign a centre-back and a defensive midfielder. They have
rejected two bids from Rennes for Senegal striker Sakho, the second worth up
to £10m. Bordeaux's new manager Gus Poyet is also keen.
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West Ham suffer double hammer blow as Manuel Lanzini and Andy Carroll get
confirmation of injury lay-offs
Lanzini limped out of the Premier League draw with Bournemouth at the
weekend, joining Carroll in the treatment room
The Mirror
West Ham have suffered a double hammer blow as Manuel Lanzini and Andy
Carroll's injury lay-offs were confirmed. Lanzini, who limped out of the
weekend draw with Bournemouth, is out of action for one month after
suffering a hamstring problem. Carroll will miss up to three months worth of
action, after a scan revealed that he has suffered a hairline fracture of
his foot - all but ending his hopes to making it to Russia with the England
World Cup squad this summer. David Moyes and his backroom staff were stunned
by Monday's setbacks, and will now rule out a January exit for £17million
summer-buy Javier Hernandez. The Irons had been willing to listen to
acceptable offers for the Mexican striker, but their plans changed
dramatically after Carroll underwent surgery on his broken foot. Carroll had
an ankle operation after initial scans failed to flag up a problem. It was
only after a third, more detailed scan last Thursday that the issue was
finally detected. A decision was taken after consulting with another
specialist on Monday. Although the Hammers considered using a protective
boot to rehabilitate Carroll, they decided to take no risks and opt for
surgery. Giant striker Carroll's injury also denied him a January move to
Chelsea, as the reigning champions were prepared to spend up to £20million
on his signature.
For the Hammers, who are on a run of seven games unbeaten in all
competitions, it is a bitter blow as they continue their resurgence under
David Moyes in the Premier League. West Ham could still allow forward Andre
Ayew to rejoin previous club Swansea for around £20m to fund the signing of
reinforcements up front, but Hernandez is deemed too important to lose.
Moyes is also tracking midfield targets in Real Betis' Fabian and Andre
Gomes of Barcelona. Anderlecht's £20m defender Leander Dendoncker, who can
also play further forward in the engine room, is another on the Scot's list.
Speaking following the Bournemouth game, Moyes admitted that he was
concerned with the club's current injury situation. Winston Reid, Diafra
Sakho, Jose Fonte and Michail Antonio have all also had problems in recent
weeks. "We've had a few injuries and we're just getting through. Behind the
scenes we're just trying to nurse boys along," Moyes told Sky Sports. "We
hope Mano's [Lanzini] isn't serious. Cressy [Aaron Cresswell] is okay, but
it's more the Lanzini one that we're worried about. "I don't think you can
suddenly say, okay we'll go out, see if someone else is out there waiting to
be bought of the level of Lanzini, because I don't think you've got that. "I
think we will work with the players we've got, but we've got too many out
injured at the moment. Ideally, if we got a couple of players to add to the
squad, it would help us, but it's not always that easy to get the players
you want. We're working hard and we'll keep trying to get someone."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United legend Sir Geoff Hurst has paid tribute to fellow 1966 FIFA
World Cup winner and England teammate Jimmy Armfield, who has passed away at
the age of 82. Armfield was a member of the 22-man squad which lifted the
Jules Rimet Trophy at Wembley 52 years ago, when Hammers trio Sir Geoff,
Bobby Moore and Martin Peters played an influential role in the Three Lions'
historic success. The full-back, who spent his entire professional career
with Blackpool, for whom he came up against West Ham many times in both the
First Division and FA Cup in the 1950s and 1960s. An outstanding defender
and leader, he was capped 43 times and skippered his country on 15 occasions
between 1961-66, preceding Moore as England captain. And Sir Geoff, who led
the line in Armfield's final game for his country, a 3-0 pre-World Cup win
in Finland, and retained huge affection for a man with whom he also shared a
birthplace, the Greater Manchester town of Ashton-under-Lyne. "Jimmy was the
established full-back prior to the World Cup and then George (Cohen) came
in, and Alf wanted to pick George," Sir Geoff told the BBC. "He always dealt
with it with great dignity, that's typical of Jimmy. "It must have been a
huge blow not playing at that time and in the Final. But dealing with it
over the years, there was never any bitterness, he was always part of the
squad and turned up at most of the golf days. "That could easily happen to a
player who was unhappy with that part of his life, but he continued to be
part of that group right up until the last year or two."
After hanging up his boots in 1971, Armfield managed Bolton Wanderers and
Leeds United, leading the latter to the European Cup final in 1975, before
working as a consultant to the Football Association and as a popular
journalist and expert summariser for the BBC and a number of newspapers. He
was made an OBE in 2000 for his services to football and a CBE for his
services to the community in his native Lancashire in 2010. Everyone at West
Ham United would like to pass on their sincere condolences to Jimmy's loved
ones at this sad time.
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Masuaku: A full week will mean we're ready for Wigan
WHUFC.com
Arthur Masuaku says a full week of rest, recovery and preparation will serve
West Ham United well ahead of their Emirates FA Cup fourth-round trip to
Wigan Athletic. The Hammers looked a little leggy in the closing stages of
Saturday's 1-1 Premier League draw with AFC Bournemouth at London Stadium –
hardly surprising when you consider David Moyes' injury-hit squad were
playing for the sixth time in 19 days, including a 120-minute FA Cup
marathon against Shrewsbury Town last Tuesday evening. And Masuaku, who has
played all but 17 of a possible 1,350 minutes since mid-November, says a
free midweek has come just at the right time. "We have been busy," he said.
"I think we were all a bit tired after 60 or 65 minutes against Bournemouth,
so it's important to have some rest now and get ready for the next round of
the FA Cup at Wigan on Saturday."
Despite their tired legs, the Hammers recovered from falling a goal behind
just 19 minutes from time on Saturday, equalising within 64 seconds through
substitute Chicharito. Masuaku felt his team were good value for their
point, particularly after forcing Bournemouth goalkeeper Asmir Begovic into
a number of vital saves when the game was still goalless. "We played pretty
well in the first half and then after we dropped a little bit and they
scored. I don't think they deserved to score, but we reacted straight away
and scored, so it's a good point as we were the best team. "Bournemouth have
a good, strong team, but we also have a good team, so the point is a good
one. "We had a few chances but we didn't score. The thing is, we need to be
more aggressive in front of the goal and we must score. But we got a point,
at least, so this is what we have to think about."
The left wing-back was again to the fore himself against the Cherries,
completing 85.7% of his passes and putting in six crosses as the Hammers
dominated for long periods, particularly in the opening 45 minutes. A
constant outlet, the No26 also provided support at the defensive end of the
pitch, repeatedly bringing lifting the pressure on his team with his ability
to run at pace with the ball at his feet. Masuaku has become one of the
first names on Moyes' teamsheet and is eager to repay his manager's faith,
and that of the West Ham supporters, over the closing months of the season.
"The manager has just given me confidence. Last year I was injured so I
couldn't play and couldn't show my best. Now, since he came, he has given me
the opportunity to play and I just try to give him back the confidence that
he has given me. That's it. "I also want to show my best to the fans on the
pitch. I need to keep well and try to get some assists and goals."
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Zabaleta hails 'true professional' Chicharito
WHUFC.com
Pablo Zabaleta has hailed the Impact of 'true professional' Chicharito after
the Mexican scored West Ham United's equaliser in the 1-1 draw with
Bournemouth.
Chicharito came off the bench in the 64th minute of Saturday's contest with
the Cherries and would net the Hammers' goal less than ten minutes later,
slotting home after some excellent interplay with Marko Arnautovic. The
finish came 64 seconds after Bournemouth had taken the lead, thanks to a
Ryan Fraser effort at the near post, marking Chicharito's fifth goal of the
season for the Irons. And Zabaleta has praised the 29-year-old's work rate
and focus during training, saying the attacker did exactly what he needed to
do after entering the fray. "Chicharito is a true professional," Zabaleta
said after the match. "Even though he's not played as much as he would like
recently he's kept training well and he's remained focused. He's been a
great professional. "This is what you need from substitutes. He came on and
made a big impact in the game and he scored today. It was a great finish
from Chicharito."
The defender also had kind words for Manuel Lanzini, who put in a strong
performance before exiting the field with what looked to be an injury. On
his fellow Argentinian, he added: Hopefully, it's not too bad. We need to
wait for the scan. Manuel is one of the most important players for our team
and he played 120 minutes on Tuesday. Players like him make so many sprints
during the game."
Zabaleta was delighted with how his side began Saturday's contest but admits
he and his teammates were suffering from fatigue as the game came to a
close.
"I thought we were really good for the first half an hour of the game," he
continued. "We were really intense and we created a few chances. We couldn't
score and the second half was similar for about 20 minutes, but then the
rest we looked a bit tired." "I thought we put so much effort in during the
game and some of the players played 120 minutes in midweek. Apart from this
it was a good game. Both teams had chances. A point is a point and
sometimes, when you can't win, you have to try to get something."
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A MISSED JANUARY OPPORTUNITY?
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 22 JANUARY 2018 AT 9:15PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @StevenMcCarthy9
I really hope I am wrong about this at the end of the season, but I think
failing to secure early signings in January could well be a massive wasted
opportunity to leave the teams around us behind, and push up the table more
than we have done! We performed really well going forward against
Huddersfield, however there were some cracks that were glossed over by the
nature of the final score. The 2 main issues I see in terms of the squad are
in our midfield and sheer lack of depth with an injury prone squad.
No bones about it, yesterday against Bournemouth, we dropped 2 points. We
had all the opportunities to go 2 or 3 goals up, however we couldn't finish
them off successfully. This happens in football, but I think the owners are
playing a dangerous game by waiting for moves when we are playing teams
around us! Upcoming fixtures against Brighton and Watford are 6 pointers,
and we may well have missed an opportunity to go into these games with a
bolstered and settled squad, unknown entities and the ability to rotate our
squad with more than youth players.
The central midfield issue is glaringly obvious and it is one that has
bitten us in the backside numerous times this season. Kouyate's season is
something that I think has been covered enough both in articles and the
excellent West Ham Way Radio Show (free little un forced plug for you guys
there!) but it is blindingly obvious that he has been either killed and
replaced by his doppelgänger, or he simply had a Jason Bourne esque accident
and has lost all his skills instead of his memory!
Yesterday was without a doubt his best game of the season, he charged
forward and he showed far more desire and effort than he has in every single
match of the season combined. But I wonder if buying a Central midielder
earlier in the window could have inspired this dramatic change sooner,
whilst also offering us an option to change our style of play.
We have a great attacking line up, on our day – but when you have the injury
prone players of Carroll, Sakho and Ayew. Combined with the seemingly long
term injury of Antonio (that was inevitably coming).
We are now reliant on 2 strikers for consistent options, one of who'm is an
incredibly well performing player who's natural role is on the wing! And the
other is a striker who appears low in confidence, not entirely rated by our
manager and at a loss in our system. A goal from him yesterday is vital for
us and the team! Had we lost yesterday, combined with our robbery away at
Bournemouth, I think morale would have been seriously low on and off the
pitch.
What I thought before the Bournemouth game, was that we needed to spend on a
striker and central midfielder (I can hear the laughs already). But with
Lanzini's injury and a rumoured Carroll spell on the sidelines we now need
to lengthen the list…..Lanzini has been vital for us over his seasons at the
club, and our recent points and positive performances have largely been down
to him and Arnie's link up play. With Lanzini out, we now have to change our
system or spend on a similar creative player and I wonder if signing sooner
in the window would have been the much smarter option for us!
I'm @StevenMcCarthy9 and let's all get behind the team and hope we can climb
up the table!
COYI's!!!!
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IT'S HAPPENING AGAIN…..
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 22 JANUARY 2018 AT 9:30PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Kevin Slade @KevinSladeSDCC
Here we go again… Twenty two days into the January transfer window and still
no activity as of yet. Although David Moyes has expressed his intent to
strengthen in certain areas, nothing has remotely suggested that we're in
the transfer market to add to the current squad – apart from a few rumours.
I've said in previous articles that the January window in particular is an
all round headache; It's extremely difficult to get a player out of their
current club at this stage of the season unless you're paying over the odds.
In the current market the inflation on transfers has given clubs outside of
the top 6 very little hope to sign a top quality player without spending a
ludicrous amount of money. Let's not forget, signing a player isn't as easy
as calling the chairman of another club and bidding £30m for a player. We
have to take the transfer fee, signing on fees, player wages, bonuses, and
most frustratingly, agent fees all into consideration. Agents play the most
integral part of any transfer in football, and as a result (in my opinion),
it has ruined the game. Example:- The Alexis Sanchez transfer to Manchester
United from Arsenal is supposedly going to amount up to over £600m in total
which includes his wages over the 3 year contract which has been offered to
him. At least £50m of that figure is believed to be in agent fees, which
brings me to my point at hand. £50m in agent fees! We don't even have that
type money for a transfer fee. So what hope does that give us as supporters
when we desperately need additions to the current squad?
It's no mystery that we're crying out for a central midfielder. William
Carvalho, anyone? Or how about Samir Nasri? I roll my eyes at some of the
names that are being touted about this month!
As much as people give him stick, Nobes is and has been our best midfielder
this season & has shown us just how much we've missed him when he hasn't
played. I think it's time to move on Kouyate in the summer as he's been
woeful for the past eighteen months, and Obiang has been out of sorts &
incredibly inconsistent this season. The recall of Cullen and Oxford tells
me that the board aren't looking to invest heavily this window, however, Ex
mentioned today via twitter that there could be movement with Jonjo Shelvey
should Newcastle secure one of their targets, which looks to have moved a
step closer today. Shelvey is a player that I've always liked, and think he
would be a decent addition to the squad. He has that bite that we currently
lack in the centre & the determination to win a ball. He can also pick a
pass going forward which is what we have also lacked in the centre this
season. However I do think we should be aiming a bit higher with a signing
for this position come the summer.
Leander Dendoncker is another player that's been mentioned in the past week
or so. A central midfielder I don't know much about, but has a big
reputation & has four caps for Belgium and champions league experience. At
6'3, my intuitive is he could be a replacement for Kouyate should we decide
to move him on.
Another position we need to be looking at is a new face for the frontline.
Earlier today it was confirmed that Andy Carroll will miss the rest of the
season after a scan revealed he has a broken foot. I've always been a big
fan of Andy, but I'm afraid my patience has finally ran out with him after a
plethora of injuries. There's absolutely no question that there's no player
in world football in the mould of Caz, but he just can't complete a full
season which has always been so frustrating. For the wage that he's earning
with the handful of games he plays a season, Personally I think it's time to
move him on in the summer and concentrate on accommodating Chicharito – give
him the right service, he will give you goals in abundance. But of course,
it costs money to employ a player of that ilk.
It's also time for Sakho to leave as his petulance is wearing for everyone,
so this will leave us with very little options.
It's been very quiet, but here's to hoping that the board delve into their
pockets and show us some ambition. Whether it be now, or in the summer…
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Slaven Bilic: Changing manager may not satisfy fans in long term
Last Updated: 22/01/18 8:25pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic has warned that clubs like West Ham will enjoy short-term gains
by changing their manager, but it will be difficult to keep fans happy in
the long term.
Bilic was axed by West Ham earlier this season and replaced by David Moyes,
who has picked up 17 points from 13 matches so far and seen the team climb
to 11th in the Premier League table Watford became the eighth top-flight
team to change manager this season when they replaced Marco Silva with Javi
Gracia on Sunday - and all of the previous seven have seen their
points-per-game improve under their new boss.
Bilic feels the new managers have succeeded by adopting a "back-to-basics"
approach - but does not feel that is sustainable. "It's one of the biggest
reasons why clubs are changing the managers," he told Monday Night Football.
"It's one of the old cliches, you can't change the mentality, you can't
change 22 players so you change the manager and he takes responsibility.
Unfortunately, it's a part of the job. "I totally agree you are only as good
as your last few games and what is common to all of them [the new managers]
is going back to basics. "When you are struggling, you want a clean sheet
and you don't want to lose games." He added: "It's always easier for a new
face to go back to basics, which is about being on your toes, being
aggressive and all that. "Don't get me wrong. All of them are doing a great
job. I am most interested in West Ham and David Moyes is doing a great job
so far and I wish him all the best. "But all of them have done
back-to-basics type things which is understandable because you need points.
That's one of the reasons why clubs are changing. "But every fan wants his
team to play like Man City or Barcelona. Back to basics long term doesn't
satisfy the fans or the board because people want spectacle."
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West Ham want to sign Leander Dendoncker from Anderlecht
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 22/01/18 12:46pm
SSN
West Ham are very interested in Belgium midfielder Leander Dendoncker, Sky
Sports News understands. Belgian journalist Kristof Terreur of HLN has
reported that Hammers assistant manager Stuart Pearce was in Genk over the
weekend to watch the player in action for Anderlecht in a 1-0 win. The
22-year-old is a Belgium international with four caps following his debut in
2015. He has also made 155 appearances and scored 10 goals for Anderlecht
already in his career. West Ham boss David Moyes has been keen to bolster
his squad in certain areas this month. Sky Sports News understands he feels
he has inherited an unbalanced squad.
The Hammers have been keen to move on a number of attacking players - they
are willing to listen to offers Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho -
and want to sign a centre-back and a defensive midfielder. They have
rejected two bids from Rennes for Senegal striker Sakho, the second worth up
to £10m. Bordeaux's new manager Gus Poyet is also keen.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham suffer double hammer blow as Manuel Lanzini and Andy Carroll get
confirmation of injury lay-offs
Lanzini limped out of the Premier League draw with Bournemouth at the
weekend, joining Carroll in the treatment room
The Mirror
West Ham have suffered a double hammer blow as Manuel Lanzini and Andy
Carroll's injury lay-offs were confirmed. Lanzini, who limped out of the
weekend draw with Bournemouth, is out of action for one month after
suffering a hamstring problem. Carroll will miss up to three months worth of
action, after a scan revealed that he has suffered a hairline fracture of
his foot - all but ending his hopes to making it to Russia with the England
World Cup squad this summer. David Moyes and his backroom staff were stunned
by Monday's setbacks, and will now rule out a January exit for £17million
summer-buy Javier Hernandez. The Irons had been willing to listen to
acceptable offers for the Mexican striker, but their plans changed
dramatically after Carroll underwent surgery on his broken foot. Carroll had
an ankle operation after initial scans failed to flag up a problem. It was
only after a third, more detailed scan last Thursday that the issue was
finally detected. A decision was taken after consulting with another
specialist on Monday. Although the Hammers considered using a protective
boot to rehabilitate Carroll, they decided to take no risks and opt for
surgery. Giant striker Carroll's injury also denied him a January move to
Chelsea, as the reigning champions were prepared to spend up to £20million
on his signature.
For the Hammers, who are on a run of seven games unbeaten in all
competitions, it is a bitter blow as they continue their resurgence under
David Moyes in the Premier League. West Ham could still allow forward Andre
Ayew to rejoin previous club Swansea for around £20m to fund the signing of
reinforcements up front, but Hernandez is deemed too important to lose.
Moyes is also tracking midfield targets in Real Betis' Fabian and Andre
Gomes of Barcelona. Anderlecht's £20m defender Leander Dendoncker, who can
also play further forward in the engine room, is another on the Scot's list.
Speaking following the Bournemouth game, Moyes admitted that he was
concerned with the club's current injury situation. Winston Reid, Diafra
Sakho, Jose Fonte and Michail Antonio have all also had problems in recent
weeks. "We've had a few injuries and we're just getting through. Behind the
scenes we're just trying to nurse boys along," Moyes told Sky Sports. "We
hope Mano's [Lanzini] isn't serious. Cressy [Aaron Cresswell] is okay, but
it's more the Lanzini one that we're worried about. "I don't think you can
suddenly say, okay we'll go out, see if someone else is out there waiting to
be bought of the level of Lanzini, because I don't think you've got that. "I
think we will work with the players we've got, but we've got too many out
injured at the moment. Ideally, if we got a couple of players to add to the
squad, it would help us, but it's not always that easy to get the players
you want. We're working hard and we'll keep trying to get someone."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, January 22
Daily WHUFC News - 22nd January 2018
Moyes: Transfer targets, earning respect and Chicharito's future
WHUFC.com
David Moyes discussed his hopes for the closing weeks of the January
transfer window, winning the respect of the West Ham United supporters and
Chicharito's future with the daily newspaper journalists after Saturday's
1-1 Premier League draw with AFC Bournemouth. The manager said he would like
to strengthen his squad, admitting the Hammers are short of bodies in some
areas, but will not make any signings without being 100 per cent sure of
their quality. Moyes also compared the pressure to perform at West Ham to
his first club Celtic, before spending a few minutes answering questions
about his Mexican goalscorer. He is what he had to say…
Will you look to do business over the closing ten days of the transfer
window?
"I don't want it to be a lucky dip or just taking anything for the sake of
it. Look, we're short, but more importantly I would like to get the players
at the Club back fit, as they will be the ones who know the Club better and
know what is required. "If we can pick something up in the next week or two
who we really, really want then we will try and do so. "We are definitely
short and even if you looked at the number of players we have, we're
probably down two in terms of squad numbers, but sometimes that works
because it means you get a chance to introduce your young players onto the
bench and some of them get through. Sometimes that allows young players to
get a chance."
You are unbeaten in seven matches and have lost just one in nine in the
Premier League, so do you feel you have won over any remaining sceptical
West Ham fans?
"I think to earn the West Ham supporters' respect is a big thing, because
they are tough support and a lot of the media are West Ham supporters also.
"It reminds me a bit of Glasgow. It's tough if you play for the Old Firm,
which I did. You live in the city and it's a tough city, as people expect
something from you and they can see through it if you're not going to do it
right. "I've tried to say from the start 'I'll get the boys working as hard
as I can', then I hope the West Ham supporters can see that. Then we could
work on their deficiencies and we're starting to do that.
"At the moment, I think the fans are probably saying 'The effort the players
are putting in, we've seen that', but I want us to get better and our play
to be better all-round, but I can't change that in two months, although I
can ask them to play better. "The power we've got is our threat up front at
the moment. We've probably got the best forward on form, as good as anybody
at the moment, in Marko [Arnautovic]. His form has been so good that the
more we get it up to him quickly the better, so that's what we've been
doing."
Chicharito scored and played well after coming on as a substitute on
Saturday. He has not started many Premier League games recently, but can he
expect more chances after that performance?
"I keep saying this all the time to players, that sometimes they think
they're not in, then they'll be in and it's up to them to take their chances
when they get them.
"Chicharito has played some games for us and he came on on Saturday and made
a difference. Chicharito can do that. You can't question the club's he has
played for, as you don't play for Man United, Real Madrid and Bayer
Leverkusen if you're not a good player."
Is he more of a penalty box player than the Club's other forwards Marko
Arnautovic, Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho or Andre Ayew?
"Chicharito is a really good player and, if we can get him the right service
and the right type of ball in the box and he gets a little bit of confidence
[he will score goals]. "He's looking a bit fitter, too. He was out for six
weeks with a hamstring injury. He was out when I got the job with a
hamstring injury suffered on injury duty with Mexico and he was missing for
nearly six weeks, so he was just missing a bit of where we were with the
players in the early weeks. I've got to say 'Great', because I hope he comes
up. "If we can get him good enough service, he can be a penalty box player,
but what you've seen at the moment is that we've had to become harder to
beat and play more on the counter attack and that might not suit him as much
as balls being whisked across the box. One which Sam Byram stuck in late on
was one where you expected Chicharito to pop up somewhere."
Will Chicharito definitely stay with the Club this month?
"Will he definitely stay? I'd like to think so, yeah. It would need to take
something… If you asked 'Would Paul Pogba definitely stay with Man United?',
if Real Madrid came in with £500 million, then he probably wouldn't, so
money would always be the talker. At the moment, no-one has made an offer,
as far as I know anyway."
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Collins: A point is 'a decent return'
WHUFC.com
James Collins believes West Ham United were well worth a point in their 1-1
draw against Bournemouth on Saturday. The Hammers were dominant in the
opening period of this weekend's Premier League contest, but fell behind in
the 71st minute to a Ryan Fraser strike. However, the Irons were level just
over a minute later as Chicharito linked with Marko Arnautovic to poke home
from close range. Collins is disappointed that the side didn't collect the
win against the Cherries but admits a share of the points is a good result
after going behind late in the second half. "We started the game pretty
well," Collins told whufc.com. "We were disappointed not be up in the first
half, and then they put us under a bit of pressure in the second. Looking at
the game, a point is a decent return. "I think there was a stop in play and
I think we lost our concentration, and they got through us too easily. It
was great character from the lads to come back and score a goal as soon as
we did. A point is a fair result."
The Welshman also expressed his happiness for Chicharito, who scored his
fifth Premier League goal of the campaign in the draw at London Stadium. He
continued: "I'm delighted for Chicharito. He probably hasn't played as much
as he would like to, but he's come on and scored an important goal for us."
Collins also indicated that fatigue played a role in the result, after some
of the players featured in the full 120 minutes of the FA Cup third round
replay against Shrewsbury Town. The defender is confident that he and his
teammates can recover in time for next weekend's match with Wigan Athletic.
"The game on Tuesday and then today, we probably didn't do as much training
this week as we usually do. There were a few tired legs out there. We
recover and we go again for the weekend."
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First Official Coaching Association session a success
WHUFC.com
Monday marked the first of West Ham United's Official Coaching Association
sessions as local coaches from across grassroots football gathered at
Chadwell Heath for the masterclass.
The evening, led by Academy Manager Terry Westley, was attended by more than
60 coaches – who gained a professional insight into youth football – from
the local community.
Westley led the introduction at the Hammers' famous and historic Chadwell
Heath base, before former Irons defenders Matthew Upson and Paul Konchesky –
both of whom are mentors for Academy players at the Club – held a question
and answer session.
Those present were then invited to watch the U12-U14s training inside the
sports dome to see the workings of a practical session. Steve Potts and Jack
Collison – another pair of ex-Hammers and current youth coaches – headed the
exercises as the Coaching Association members looked on with interest from
the sidelines.
Mark Phillips, joint-manager of the U18s alongside Potts, then rounded off
the evening with a debrief and invited attendees to return for the
Association's next date in February.
Westley labelled the opening Coaching Association night a huge success and
looked ahead with excitement to future events in east London.
He said: "It was a great turnout from all the grassroots coaches on Monday,
and it just shows what a fantastic opportunity there is to join in with the
coaching of a professional Club.
"It was a huge success and it shows that there is something in it for all
of us. The idea for us was to bring the fraternity of coaches from
grassroots football together with the professional game, and that's exactly
what we did.
"It kicked-off with a great question and answer with Matthew and Paul and
then we headed into the dome for the session with the U18 staff – Mark and
Steve – along with the goalkeeping coaches Billy Lepine and Jerome John.
Liam Manning also headed that up and took the players through their paces.
"I think you could see, from all the questions members were asking and the
engagement they were showing in the session, that it was useful evening for
them all and we're already looking forward to the next one."
Coaches at the evening ranged from across east London and Essex to even
further afield, and questions asked and directed at Westley, Upson,
Konchesky and more were wide-ranging.
You could see from the questions the members were asking and the engagement
they were showing that it was a useful evening
Terry Westley
From what to in a situation when training is for more than 40 children, to
dealing with varying standards of young players, the West Ham staff had
their brains racked throughout the night.
"There was a real engagement from the attendees in terms of 'What would you
do in this scenario?' and 'What do you do when some players are great and
others aren't so great?'," continued Westley.
"They were all the general questions you might expect coaches at this level
to ask, and the problems you expect them to be facing.
"We're trying to put on some sessions that enable them to go back to their
clubs and think about what they may have seen from us and what we have
hopefully helped them with and improve the quality of coaching at their own
sessions.
"We're all here to learn and try and improve in so many different areas and
if we can improve the quality of coaching in the local area, that is massive
for us. Obviously if they have a player in their team who is outstanding,
then that's of interest and it brings the community of grassroots closer to
the professional game, that can all only be a positive.
"If they have an outstanding team at U10s, for example, they can come here
with another team on a week night, get some great coaching which we can help
with and at the same time we can look at those quality players.
"I think the whole Association has got benefits for everybody, right across
the game, and this is the start of the first four sessions this season."
This campaign, there are three more Official Coaching Association sessions
that coaches can book onto; on Tuesday 13 February, Monday 5 March and
Monday 9 April.
More are likely to follow into 2018/19, but first, Westley outlined what
those interested can expect from the remaining masterclasses.
"We're going to bring Jack Collison and Steve Potts into the next session,
to get their own stories about the culture of West Ham and the journeys both
players went on in their time here," he explained.
"They were both here as young players but a lot has changed – how the
facilities have changed, how the coaching has developed.
"We'd also like to bring in people from the FA, from Dan Ashworth's team,
from the national game. Then, to invite foreign coaches in would be a great
insight for us all, and that's another thing we are looking to do.
"Finally, we'd like to bring in our own senior staff. David Moyes and his
staff; Alan Irvine, Stuart Pearce, Billy McKinlay and Chris Woods; will
hopefully get involved.
"Again, that will be of great value. We want to really open it up to all the
grassroots coaches across the community.
"On Monday, the coaches received a Coaching Association booklet which will
hopefully explain everything that we have done so far and in addition, the
question and answer with Matt and Paul will have also helped them.
"They are two players who have played over 1,000 games between them at the
very highest level and that insight is valuable.
"We're looking forward to the next session now, and I'd encourage any
coaches who considered coming to the first but didn't to get their name down
to do so quickly, because we will soon be reaching our number limit!"
To book your place on the next Official Coaching Association evening, visit
https://www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc, head to 'find tickets' and look for the
Coaching Association.
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Andre Ayew: West Ham United reject Swansea City bid for forward
BBC.co.uk
Swansea City have had a bid rejected by West Ham United for their former
forward Andre Ayew. Ayew left the Liberty Stadium in August 2016 for the
Hammers, who paid close to £20m for a player who scored 15 goals in his
debut Premier League season. Swansea may need to break their £15.5m transfer
record, paid to Atletico Madrid for Borja Baston in August 2016, to re-sign
the 28-year-old. The Ghana international's brother Jordan plays for Swansea.
West Ham are short of options up front after Andy Carroll injured an ankle.
Manager David Moyes may also be reluctant to sell a player to a direct rival
in the lower reaches of the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham turn down second offer for Diafra Sakho from Rennes
By Husmukh Kerai
Last Updated: 21/01/18 5:50pm
SSN
West Ham have rejected a second offer from Rennes for striker Diafra Sakho,
according to Sky sources. West Ham turned down a follow-up offer worth up to
£10m, including add-ons, for the Senegal international striker after
knocking back Rennes' initial bid of £6m last week. Sky Sports News
understands Bordeaux's new manager Gus Poyet is also interested in signing
the 28-year-old. Sakho wants to leave the Hammers because he feels
undervalued compared to the club's other strikers. The forward currently
earns £30,000 a week at the London Stadium, while the other strikers in
squad earn between £80,000 and £110,000 a week.
Sky Sports News reported Crystal Palace had agreed a fee, thought to be
between £10m and £12m, for the striker earlier this month, although one
source close to the deal has suggested Roy Hodgson's side have pulled out of
the move. Sakho has played 17 games for the Hammers this season, although he
is yet to start a match in the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Moyes demands more from West Ham as he targets a top-10 spot
Last Updated: 21/01/18 11:16am
SSN
David Moyes says West Ham are making steady progress but he is demanding
more from his players who extended their unbeaten run to seven games. The
Hammers' undefeated sequence began with a 3-3 Boxing Day draw at
Bournemouth, who were the opponents in a 1-1 draw at the London Stadium on
Saturday.
Moyes described the first half as the best football of his reign, which
began in November. However, the Hammers boss is demanding more from the
Londoners whose undefeated record in 2018 continued. "I'm looking for
better. A lot of the games we've been winning, but I'm looking for more,"
the former Everton and Manchester United boss said. "I thought there were
bits of the more [against Bournemouth]. This is just beginning to get a
little bit more design to it. "We've got blistering power and pace up front,
which we can use, ability on the ball. "We've got to try to mix it and do
the right thing. Once or twice we didn't quite get it right. We missed a
cutting edge."
Moyes says he is looking to bring in a couple of new signings in the
transfer window to keep the club's momentum going as he targets a top-10
finish for the club.
He told the club's website: "We're nudging along, making progress, the most
important thing come the end of the season is not to be in the bottom three,
but in the same breath I've got my eyes looking up to see if we can make the
top ten as well. "We could do with a body or two coming in, so we'll try to
do that. We're working on it and we'll try to get the right players and
people who we think can help us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reject Swansea bid for Andre Ayew
Last Updated: 21/01/18 6:22pm
SSN
West Ham have rejected a bid from Swansea for striker Andre Ayew, according
to Sky sources. The offer was worth up to £14m with add-ons, but the Hammers
value Ayew at £20m - the price they paid Swansea when they signed him in
August 2016. Sky Sports News reported Swansea's interest in bringing the
28-year-old back to the club earlier this week. A deal between the clubs is
unlikely, with sources close to Ayew insisting he is not keen on a return to
the Liberty Stadium. The Ghana international joined Swansea from Marseille
in 2015 and enjoyed a superb debut campaign in England, scoring 12 goals in
35 appearances. Ayew has struggled to establish himself as a first-team
regular at West Ham since he joined in August 2016 in a then club-record
deal for the club. He has scored 12 goals in 50 appearances for Hammers,
but this season he has managed three top-flight goals in 18 appearances.
David Moyes' side have also rejected a second offer from Rennes for striker
Diafra Sakho.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Javier Hernandez steps in to fill gap left by Andy Carroll and Manuel
Lanzini at West Ham
Ben Findon, at london stadium
21 JANUARY 2018 • 10:30PM
Telegraph.co.uk
With the impeccable timing for which he was once so renowned, Javier
Hernandez moved centre-stage just as West Ham absorbed the implications of
the losses of fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Manuel Lanzini. West Ham
shelled out £16 million to acquire the 'Little Pea' from Bayer Leverkusen
last summer but too often he has been a bit-part player, usually found on
the subsitutes' bench when not struggling to make an impression on the wide
open spaces of the London Stadium.
But maybe, just maybe, not any more. Stepping off the bench to provide West
Ham's almost instant reposte to Ryan Fraser's well-taken strike for
Bournemouth, Hernandez provided a glimpse of the poaching skills that made
the Mexican such a prized asset among Europe's elite. There had even been
speculation over a move to Besiktas but that was being firmly quelled as
West Ham manager David Moyes, who clearly sees a key role for the
29-year-old over the months ahead.
"Chicarito has come on today and made a difference. He can do that," said
Moyes. "You can't question the clubs he's played for, Man United, Real
Madrid and Leverkusen. You don't get to play for them if you are not a good
player, and Chicharito is a really good player. "We need him. If we can get
him the right service, he gets that little bit more of confidence that sort
of goal he got today might be typical."
A reinvigorated Hernandez is even more crucial to West Ham following the
news on Sunday that Carroll will be out for three months after scans
confirmed a hairline fracture of his foot, while Lanzini could be out for up
to a month after sustaining a hamstring injury against Bournemouth. A point
apiece was about right on Saturday and means West Ham and Bournemouth both
continue to pull away from the Premier League's lower reaches. "To build
unbeaten runs in this division is so difficult so if you can do it, you can
transform your position," said Bournemouth's Eddie Howe, who marked his
100th Premier League match as a manager with the type of display he has
built his reputation on. "We've had that good flow about us in recent weeks
where we have attacked with freedom and haven't had too much caution in our
play. But we still have a lot of work to do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in talks with Clement Grenier over pre-contract deal
HITC
Jordan Harris
West Ham United are hoping to agree a deal for Clement Grenier who is out of
contract this summer. According to a report from The Sun, West Ham are
currently in talks with Lyon midfielder Clement Grenier about a potential
three-year deal as David Moyes looks to bolster his squad. The Irons have
been quiet during the January transfer window and are still awaiting their
first addition of the month. However, their surge up the table since Moyes'
appointment has arguably lessened the need for significant strengthening.
One player who may perhaps arrive at the London Stadium before the deadline
however, is Grenier, with The Sun reporting that the Irons are in talks with
the Frenchman about a move when his contract with the Ligue 1 side comes to
an end this summer. The Sun adds that Grenier is keen to leave Lyon, so it
would appear that there are not too many stumbling blocks between the Irons
and a potential deal for the 27-year-old.
But perhaps Moyes will decide against waiting until the summer. The Sun
suggests that the former France international could cost £1 million to sign
this month, so perhaps Moyes may be tempted to push the Irons hierarchy to
meet the demands. On a free transfer in the summer, or even for £1 million,
Grenier would arguably be a decent signing for West Ham if they can make a
deal happen. He has not featured that much over the last couple of years,
but would add some creativity if he can find his best form once again.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
David Moyes discussed his hopes for the closing weeks of the January
transfer window, winning the respect of the West Ham United supporters and
Chicharito's future with the daily newspaper journalists after Saturday's
1-1 Premier League draw with AFC Bournemouth. The manager said he would like
to strengthen his squad, admitting the Hammers are short of bodies in some
areas, but will not make any signings without being 100 per cent sure of
their quality. Moyes also compared the pressure to perform at West Ham to
his first club Celtic, before spending a few minutes answering questions
about his Mexican goalscorer. He is what he had to say…
Will you look to do business over the closing ten days of the transfer
window?
"I don't want it to be a lucky dip or just taking anything for the sake of
it. Look, we're short, but more importantly I would like to get the players
at the Club back fit, as they will be the ones who know the Club better and
know what is required. "If we can pick something up in the next week or two
who we really, really want then we will try and do so. "We are definitely
short and even if you looked at the number of players we have, we're
probably down two in terms of squad numbers, but sometimes that works
because it means you get a chance to introduce your young players onto the
bench and some of them get through. Sometimes that allows young players to
get a chance."
You are unbeaten in seven matches and have lost just one in nine in the
Premier League, so do you feel you have won over any remaining sceptical
West Ham fans?
"I think to earn the West Ham supporters' respect is a big thing, because
they are tough support and a lot of the media are West Ham supporters also.
"It reminds me a bit of Glasgow. It's tough if you play for the Old Firm,
which I did. You live in the city and it's a tough city, as people expect
something from you and they can see through it if you're not going to do it
right. "I've tried to say from the start 'I'll get the boys working as hard
as I can', then I hope the West Ham supporters can see that. Then we could
work on their deficiencies and we're starting to do that.
"At the moment, I think the fans are probably saying 'The effort the players
are putting in, we've seen that', but I want us to get better and our play
to be better all-round, but I can't change that in two months, although I
can ask them to play better. "The power we've got is our threat up front at
the moment. We've probably got the best forward on form, as good as anybody
at the moment, in Marko [Arnautovic]. His form has been so good that the
more we get it up to him quickly the better, so that's what we've been
doing."
Chicharito scored and played well after coming on as a substitute on
Saturday. He has not started many Premier League games recently, but can he
expect more chances after that performance?
"I keep saying this all the time to players, that sometimes they think
they're not in, then they'll be in and it's up to them to take their chances
when they get them.
"Chicharito has played some games for us and he came on on Saturday and made
a difference. Chicharito can do that. You can't question the club's he has
played for, as you don't play for Man United, Real Madrid and Bayer
Leverkusen if you're not a good player."
Is he more of a penalty box player than the Club's other forwards Marko
Arnautovic, Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho or Andre Ayew?
"Chicharito is a really good player and, if we can get him the right service
and the right type of ball in the box and he gets a little bit of confidence
[he will score goals]. "He's looking a bit fitter, too. He was out for six
weeks with a hamstring injury. He was out when I got the job with a
hamstring injury suffered on injury duty with Mexico and he was missing for
nearly six weeks, so he was just missing a bit of where we were with the
players in the early weeks. I've got to say 'Great', because I hope he comes
up. "If we can get him good enough service, he can be a penalty box player,
but what you've seen at the moment is that we've had to become harder to
beat and play more on the counter attack and that might not suit him as much
as balls being whisked across the box. One which Sam Byram stuck in late on
was one where you expected Chicharito to pop up somewhere."
Will Chicharito definitely stay with the Club this month?
"Will he definitely stay? I'd like to think so, yeah. It would need to take
something… If you asked 'Would Paul Pogba definitely stay with Man United?',
if Real Madrid came in with £500 million, then he probably wouldn't, so
money would always be the talker. At the moment, no-one has made an offer,
as far as I know anyway."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins: A point is 'a decent return'
WHUFC.com
James Collins believes West Ham United were well worth a point in their 1-1
draw against Bournemouth on Saturday. The Hammers were dominant in the
opening period of this weekend's Premier League contest, but fell behind in
the 71st minute to a Ryan Fraser strike. However, the Irons were level just
over a minute later as Chicharito linked with Marko Arnautovic to poke home
from close range. Collins is disappointed that the side didn't collect the
win against the Cherries but admits a share of the points is a good result
after going behind late in the second half. "We started the game pretty
well," Collins told whufc.com. "We were disappointed not be up in the first
half, and then they put us under a bit of pressure in the second. Looking at
the game, a point is a decent return. "I think there was a stop in play and
I think we lost our concentration, and they got through us too easily. It
was great character from the lads to come back and score a goal as soon as
we did. A point is a fair result."
The Welshman also expressed his happiness for Chicharito, who scored his
fifth Premier League goal of the campaign in the draw at London Stadium. He
continued: "I'm delighted for Chicharito. He probably hasn't played as much
as he would like to, but he's come on and scored an important goal for us."
Collins also indicated that fatigue played a role in the result, after some
of the players featured in the full 120 minutes of the FA Cup third round
replay against Shrewsbury Town. The defender is confident that he and his
teammates can recover in time for next weekend's match with Wigan Athletic.
"The game on Tuesday and then today, we probably didn't do as much training
this week as we usually do. There were a few tired legs out there. We
recover and we go again for the weekend."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First Official Coaching Association session a success
WHUFC.com
Monday marked the first of West Ham United's Official Coaching Association
sessions as local coaches from across grassroots football gathered at
Chadwell Heath for the masterclass.
The evening, led by Academy Manager Terry Westley, was attended by more than
60 coaches – who gained a professional insight into youth football – from
the local community.
Westley led the introduction at the Hammers' famous and historic Chadwell
Heath base, before former Irons defenders Matthew Upson and Paul Konchesky –
both of whom are mentors for Academy players at the Club – held a question
and answer session.
Those present were then invited to watch the U12-U14s training inside the
sports dome to see the workings of a practical session. Steve Potts and Jack
Collison – another pair of ex-Hammers and current youth coaches – headed the
exercises as the Coaching Association members looked on with interest from
the sidelines.
Mark Phillips, joint-manager of the U18s alongside Potts, then rounded off
the evening with a debrief and invited attendees to return for the
Association's next date in February.
Westley labelled the opening Coaching Association night a huge success and
looked ahead with excitement to future events in east London.
He said: "It was a great turnout from all the grassroots coaches on Monday,
and it just shows what a fantastic opportunity there is to join in with the
coaching of a professional Club.
"It was a huge success and it shows that there is something in it for all
of us. The idea for us was to bring the fraternity of coaches from
grassroots football together with the professional game, and that's exactly
what we did.
"It kicked-off with a great question and answer with Matthew and Paul and
then we headed into the dome for the session with the U18 staff – Mark and
Steve – along with the goalkeeping coaches Billy Lepine and Jerome John.
Liam Manning also headed that up and took the players through their paces.
"I think you could see, from all the questions members were asking and the
engagement they were showing in the session, that it was useful evening for
them all and we're already looking forward to the next one."
Coaches at the evening ranged from across east London and Essex to even
further afield, and questions asked and directed at Westley, Upson,
Konchesky and more were wide-ranging.
You could see from the questions the members were asking and the engagement
they were showing that it was a useful evening
Terry Westley
From what to in a situation when training is for more than 40 children, to
dealing with varying standards of young players, the West Ham staff had
their brains racked throughout the night.
"There was a real engagement from the attendees in terms of 'What would you
do in this scenario?' and 'What do you do when some players are great and
others aren't so great?'," continued Westley.
"They were all the general questions you might expect coaches at this level
to ask, and the problems you expect them to be facing.
"We're trying to put on some sessions that enable them to go back to their
clubs and think about what they may have seen from us and what we have
hopefully helped them with and improve the quality of coaching at their own
sessions.
"We're all here to learn and try and improve in so many different areas and
if we can improve the quality of coaching in the local area, that is massive
for us. Obviously if they have a player in their team who is outstanding,
then that's of interest and it brings the community of grassroots closer to
the professional game, that can all only be a positive.
"If they have an outstanding team at U10s, for example, they can come here
with another team on a week night, get some great coaching which we can help
with and at the same time we can look at those quality players.
"I think the whole Association has got benefits for everybody, right across
the game, and this is the start of the first four sessions this season."
This campaign, there are three more Official Coaching Association sessions
that coaches can book onto; on Tuesday 13 February, Monday 5 March and
Monday 9 April.
More are likely to follow into 2018/19, but first, Westley outlined what
those interested can expect from the remaining masterclasses.
"We're going to bring Jack Collison and Steve Potts into the next session,
to get their own stories about the culture of West Ham and the journeys both
players went on in their time here," he explained.
"They were both here as young players but a lot has changed – how the
facilities have changed, how the coaching has developed.
"We'd also like to bring in people from the FA, from Dan Ashworth's team,
from the national game. Then, to invite foreign coaches in would be a great
insight for us all, and that's another thing we are looking to do.
"Finally, we'd like to bring in our own senior staff. David Moyes and his
staff; Alan Irvine, Stuart Pearce, Billy McKinlay and Chris Woods; will
hopefully get involved.
"Again, that will be of great value. We want to really open it up to all the
grassroots coaches across the community.
"On Monday, the coaches received a Coaching Association booklet which will
hopefully explain everything that we have done so far and in addition, the
question and answer with Matt and Paul will have also helped them.
"They are two players who have played over 1,000 games between them at the
very highest level and that insight is valuable.
"We're looking forward to the next session now, and I'd encourage any
coaches who considered coming to the first but didn't to get their name down
to do so quickly, because we will soon be reaching our number limit!"
To book your place on the next Official Coaching Association evening, visit
https://www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc, head to 'find tickets' and look for the
Coaching Association.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andre Ayew: West Ham United reject Swansea City bid for forward
BBC.co.uk
Swansea City have had a bid rejected by West Ham United for their former
forward Andre Ayew. Ayew left the Liberty Stadium in August 2016 for the
Hammers, who paid close to £20m for a player who scored 15 goals in his
debut Premier League season. Swansea may need to break their £15.5m transfer
record, paid to Atletico Madrid for Borja Baston in August 2016, to re-sign
the 28-year-old. The Ghana international's brother Jordan plays for Swansea.
West Ham are short of options up front after Andy Carroll injured an ankle.
Manager David Moyes may also be reluctant to sell a player to a direct rival
in the lower reaches of the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham turn down second offer for Diafra Sakho from Rennes
By Husmukh Kerai
Last Updated: 21/01/18 5:50pm
SSN
West Ham have rejected a second offer from Rennes for striker Diafra Sakho,
according to Sky sources. West Ham turned down a follow-up offer worth up to
£10m, including add-ons, for the Senegal international striker after
knocking back Rennes' initial bid of £6m last week. Sky Sports News
understands Bordeaux's new manager Gus Poyet is also interested in signing
the 28-year-old. Sakho wants to leave the Hammers because he feels
undervalued compared to the club's other strikers. The forward currently
earns £30,000 a week at the London Stadium, while the other strikers in
squad earn between £80,000 and £110,000 a week.
Sky Sports News reported Crystal Palace had agreed a fee, thought to be
between £10m and £12m, for the striker earlier this month, although one
source close to the deal has suggested Roy Hodgson's side have pulled out of
the move. Sakho has played 17 games for the Hammers this season, although he
is yet to start a match in the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Moyes demands more from West Ham as he targets a top-10 spot
Last Updated: 21/01/18 11:16am
SSN
David Moyes says West Ham are making steady progress but he is demanding
more from his players who extended their unbeaten run to seven games. The
Hammers' undefeated sequence began with a 3-3 Boxing Day draw at
Bournemouth, who were the opponents in a 1-1 draw at the London Stadium on
Saturday.
Moyes described the first half as the best football of his reign, which
began in November. However, the Hammers boss is demanding more from the
Londoners whose undefeated record in 2018 continued. "I'm looking for
better. A lot of the games we've been winning, but I'm looking for more,"
the former Everton and Manchester United boss said. "I thought there were
bits of the more [against Bournemouth]. This is just beginning to get a
little bit more design to it. "We've got blistering power and pace up front,
which we can use, ability on the ball. "We've got to try to mix it and do
the right thing. Once or twice we didn't quite get it right. We missed a
cutting edge."
Moyes says he is looking to bring in a couple of new signings in the
transfer window to keep the club's momentum going as he targets a top-10
finish for the club.
He told the club's website: "We're nudging along, making progress, the most
important thing come the end of the season is not to be in the bottom three,
but in the same breath I've got my eyes looking up to see if we can make the
top ten as well. "We could do with a body or two coming in, so we'll try to
do that. We're working on it and we'll try to get the right players and
people who we think can help us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reject Swansea bid for Andre Ayew
Last Updated: 21/01/18 6:22pm
SSN
West Ham have rejected a bid from Swansea for striker Andre Ayew, according
to Sky sources. The offer was worth up to £14m with add-ons, but the Hammers
value Ayew at £20m - the price they paid Swansea when they signed him in
August 2016. Sky Sports News reported Swansea's interest in bringing the
28-year-old back to the club earlier this week. A deal between the clubs is
unlikely, with sources close to Ayew insisting he is not keen on a return to
the Liberty Stadium. The Ghana international joined Swansea from Marseille
in 2015 and enjoyed a superb debut campaign in England, scoring 12 goals in
35 appearances. Ayew has struggled to establish himself as a first-team
regular at West Ham since he joined in August 2016 in a then club-record
deal for the club. He has scored 12 goals in 50 appearances for Hammers,
but this season he has managed three top-flight goals in 18 appearances.
David Moyes' side have also rejected a second offer from Rennes for striker
Diafra Sakho.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Javier Hernandez steps in to fill gap left by Andy Carroll and Manuel
Lanzini at West Ham
Ben Findon, at london stadium
21 JANUARY 2018 • 10:30PM
Telegraph.co.uk
With the impeccable timing for which he was once so renowned, Javier
Hernandez moved centre-stage just as West Ham absorbed the implications of
the losses of fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Manuel Lanzini. West Ham
shelled out £16 million to acquire the 'Little Pea' from Bayer Leverkusen
last summer but too often he has been a bit-part player, usually found on
the subsitutes' bench when not struggling to make an impression on the wide
open spaces of the London Stadium.
But maybe, just maybe, not any more. Stepping off the bench to provide West
Ham's almost instant reposte to Ryan Fraser's well-taken strike for
Bournemouth, Hernandez provided a glimpse of the poaching skills that made
the Mexican such a prized asset among Europe's elite. There had even been
speculation over a move to Besiktas but that was being firmly quelled as
West Ham manager David Moyes, who clearly sees a key role for the
29-year-old over the months ahead.
"Chicarito has come on today and made a difference. He can do that," said
Moyes. "You can't question the clubs he's played for, Man United, Real
Madrid and Leverkusen. You don't get to play for them if you are not a good
player, and Chicharito is a really good player. "We need him. If we can get
him the right service, he gets that little bit more of confidence that sort
of goal he got today might be typical."
A reinvigorated Hernandez is even more crucial to West Ham following the
news on Sunday that Carroll will be out for three months after scans
confirmed a hairline fracture of his foot, while Lanzini could be out for up
to a month after sustaining a hamstring injury against Bournemouth. A point
apiece was about right on Saturday and means West Ham and Bournemouth both
continue to pull away from the Premier League's lower reaches. "To build
unbeaten runs in this division is so difficult so if you can do it, you can
transform your position," said Bournemouth's Eddie Howe, who marked his
100th Premier League match as a manager with the type of display he has
built his reputation on. "We've had that good flow about us in recent weeks
where we have attacked with freedom and haven't had too much caution in our
play. But we still have a lot of work to do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in talks with Clement Grenier over pre-contract deal
HITC
Jordan Harris
West Ham United are hoping to agree a deal for Clement Grenier who is out of
contract this summer. According to a report from The Sun, West Ham are
currently in talks with Lyon midfielder Clement Grenier about a potential
three-year deal as David Moyes looks to bolster his squad. The Irons have
been quiet during the January transfer window and are still awaiting their
first addition of the month. However, their surge up the table since Moyes'
appointment has arguably lessened the need for significant strengthening.
One player who may perhaps arrive at the London Stadium before the deadline
however, is Grenier, with The Sun reporting that the Irons are in talks with
the Frenchman about a move when his contract with the Ligue 1 side comes to
an end this summer. The Sun adds that Grenier is keen to leave Lyon, so it
would appear that there are not too many stumbling blocks between the Irons
and a potential deal for the 27-year-old.
But perhaps Moyes will decide against waiting until the summer. The Sun
suggests that the former France international could cost £1 million to sign
this month, so perhaps Moyes may be tempted to push the Irons hierarchy to
meet the demands. On a free transfer in the summer, or even for £1 million,
Grenier would arguably be a decent signing for West Ham if they can make a
deal happen. He has not featured that much over the last couple of years,
but would add some creativity if he can find his best form once again.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, January 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st January 2018
Chicharito strikes to maintain Hammers' unbeaten run
WHUFC.com
A finish from Chicharito – just 64 seconds after AFC Bournemouth had scored
– secured West Ham United a share of the points in a 1-1 draw with the
Cherries.
The effort from the Mexican striker came less than ten minutes after his
introduction to the game, with the forward combining well with Marko
Arnautovic to score his fifth goal of the season. Just a minute earlier the
away side had taken the lead, despite West Ham enjoying the best chances of
the game, as Ryan Fraser bulleted Bournemouth ahead. But Chicharito's
equalising effort secured a point for the Hammers and extended West Ham's
unbeaten run to seven games.
West Ham began the game brightly, with David Moyes's side showing a flair to
their passing. A long-ranged effort from Aaron Cresswell was almost flicked
towards goal by Manuel Lanzini, but the No10 couldn't quite connect with the
shot. Mark Noble also came close to opening the scoring when, just ten
minutes into the game, the captain attempted a spectacular volley from the
edge of the box, which went just over the cross-bar. Pablo Zabaleta then
played a terrific ball into the penalty area. Arnautovic got a touch and, if
not for a late hand from Asmir Begovic, the effort would have found the net.
Bournemouth's opportunities on goal were limited in the first period but a
short corner routine almost caught West Ham out. The ball was played to
Lewis Cook, but his curling effort went just wide of the far post.
The second half was an open contest and Lanzini continued to impress with
the Argentinian latching onto a clever ball from Cresswell, before firing
over the bar after some great skill a couple of minutes later. Arnautovic
and Cheikhou Kouyate linked amazingly to fashion an opening on the hour but
West Ham's No7 couldn't get the ball from under his feet. On 71 minutes,
despite their lack of chances, the away side took the lead. Ryan Fraser was
found by former Hammer Junior Stanislas, and the winger fired in a powerful
shot at the near post. It took the Irons just 64 seconds to equalise though!
Chicharito – on as a substitute for Lanzini – headed the ball into
Arnautovic, who set the Mexican up to tap home from close range just eight
minutes after entering the fray.
West Ham United: Adrian; Zabaleta, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell (Byram 90'),
Masuaku; Obiang, Kouyate (Rice 90'), Noble; Lanzini (Chicharito 64'),
Arnautovic
Subs not used: Hart, Burke, Cullen, Martinez
Goals: Chicharito 73'
AFC Bournemouth: Begovic; Francis (c), S Cook, Ake, Daniels; Fraser (King
85;), Gosling, Smith, L Cook, Ibe (Stanislas 62'); Wilson
Subs not used: Boruc, Surman, Mousset, Simpson, Frazer Taylor
Goals: Fraser 72'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble: It's another point closer to where we need to be
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble thought the Hammers showed good heart to earn their point against
AFC Bournemouth on Saturday – especially given their efforts to make
progress in the FA Cup during the week. Seven of David Moyes' starters
played some part over the 120 minutes of Tuesday's cup win against
Shrewsbury, but still found the energy to pull a result out of the bag after
Ryan Fraser's 71st minute goal threatened to derail their unbeaten start to
2018. The hosts rallied immediately, with Chicharito equalising just 64
seconds later, and skipper Noble felt the draw was a fair result. "I'd say
it was a pretty even game to be honest," the No16 explained. "We started off
really well and had a couple of good chances but just couldn't quite find
the back of the net. "They got back into the game and after going 1-0 down
to score ourselves straight away was fantastic. "You could tell that the 120
minutes on Tuesday affected our last 20 minutes, but we got a result –
another point – and that's the main thing."
Chicharito came off the bench to score the all-important goal and Noble had
praise for the Mexican after he notched his fifth of the campaign. He
continued: "We brought Chicha on, he hasn't played much football recently,
and that's what he does – get in those positions. "I hope there's lots more
to come, he's a great finisher as we know. The way Manu and Marko have been
playing, obviously the manager has had to stick with them, but he's come on
and scored a very important goal for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes: We're making progress
WHUFC.com
David Moyes says the Hammers are continuing to make progress after
Chicharito struck to maintain their seven-match unbeaten run in Saturday's
1-1 draw with AFC Bournemouth. West Ham had to rally from a goal behind when
Ryan Fraser put the Cherries in front, but their response was immediate and
Moyes was happy with what he saw from his team. The manager described the
opening 45 minutes of the contest as the best his team had played on the
ball since he took the reins in November, with only the finishing touch
missing. So, with another point chalked up on the board, Moyes was content
with the performance as the east Londoners ensured their undefeated record
in 2018 continued. He said: "I think with 15 minutes to go I might have said
'I'll take the point', but prior to that we had some good play. I think in
the first half especially we played some really good football and we missed
some big chances today. We just missed that clinical cutting edge to show
how good that football had been. "I'm thrilled with how we reacted to their
goal. Normally when you lose the first goal in the Premier League it's very
difficult to get back, and I don't think there's too much between the teams
in this part of the table. "It keeps the momentum going. We're nudging
along, making progress, the most important thing come the end of the season
is not to be in the bottom three, but in the same breath I've got my eyes
looking up to see if we can make the top ten as well. "The first thing is
making sure the back door is shut and a point today wasn't the worst
result."
One of Moyes' substitutes, Chicharito, landed the crucial equalising goal
and the manager said his team need to provide the Mexican with more
opportunities to show what he can do in the box. "It's the kind of reaction
that he's about," he explained. "We know that's what he does – he's the sort
of centre forward who has made a living out of being a fox in the box and
scoring at every opportunity they get. "Chicharito needs those sort of
opportunities and we need to get more of the ball in the box. There was that
one, and we put a great one in just after it across the face of the box, but
we needed him today. All the boys here will play a part and Chicharito
helped us today."
One downside was an apparent hamstring injury sustained by Manuel Lanzini in
the second half, with Moyes left hoping the problem is not a serious one. He
added: "Manu has a bit of a hamstring, Cresswell's was just complete cramp
and he should be ok. Manu is the problem and we hope it isn't serious. We're
short on the bench at the moment, we've got a lot of injuries, but the boys
are doing a great job and some of them had to play 120 minutes in midweek,
so great credit to them. "We could do with a body or two coming in, so we'll
try to do that. We're working on it and we'll try to get the right players
and people who we think can help us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1-1 BOURNEMOUTH – MATCH REPORT
AUTHOR: BRIAN KNOX. PUBLISHED: 20 JANUARY 2018 AT 8:04PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Match Report by @WestHamAmerican
West Ham staved off a near disastrous outing at the London Stadium today
when Javier Hernandez quickly answered Ryan Fraser's 71st minute goal to
hold a draw and keep the Hammer's record of seven matches without loss in
all competitions.
The match was an interesting study in roster management. Both sides had
mid-week FA Cup ties against lower competition. While West Ham had made
seven changes prior to that match, they required extra time and a long shift
by Manual Lanzini and other regular first teamers to earn a late 1-0 victory
over Shrewsbury Town. For the Cherries, they played a predominantly
youthful side against Wigan and fell 3-0, but preserved their primary
contributors.
In the early going the match was entirely owned by the hosts. Pablo Zabaleta
crossed to Marko Arnautovic whose shot was collected by a strong effort from
Asmir Begović. The Bosnian played well to keep West Ham out of the goal.
Pedro Obiang had another dangerous effort but his shot was just off of
target.
After the initial half hour of play, the Hammers seemed to lose their focus
and intensity. The Bournemouth goal was primarily a result of Junior
Stanislas's set up. He found Fraser on the left side of the area and his
shot sailed out of Adrian's reach inside the near post.
It took only a minute for West Ham to answer as Hernandez, who had come on
for an injured Lanzini, picked up a rebounded shot from Arnautovic and found
the equaliser off of the kick off.
With time to go, West Ham desperately wanted all three points but was unable
to generate much attacking creativity absent Lanzini. Bournemouth almost
took the match for themselves when soon after the previous goal Stanislas
took aim and Adrian was able to direct the shot over the crossbar.
Neither team was able to muster another goal, and the match ended 1-1. The
most notable results of the day for the Hammers were the injuries to Lanzini
and Aaron Cresswell. A very good team is in the training room, recovering,
and while West Ham have the benefit of bottom-half competition for the next
four matches, they will suffer without returning contributions from Michel
Antonio and Jose Fonte.
The Hammers remain 11th in the league but only five points from safety.
Regardless of the outcome of the approaching FA Cup tie with Wigan, West Ham
will need to find some victories over the next four weeks to ensure safety.
The most important member of the club as of now is the team physio.
Please continue to follow TheWestHamWay.co.uk as the January transfer window
comes to a close. @ExWHUemployee has the latest information before everyone
else does. Follow us all month long.
West Ham: Adrian, Zabaleta, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Masuaku, Obiang,
Noble, Kouyate, Lanzini, Arnautovic.
Subs: Hart, Byram (92) , Hernandez (64), Rice (90'), Cullen, Martinez,
Burke
Bournemouth: Begovic, Ake, S. Cook, Francis, Daniels, Smith, L. Cook,
Gosling, Fraser, Ibe, Wilson.
Subs: Boruc, Surman, King (85'), Stanislas (62'), Mousset, Simpson, Taylor
Referee: Martin Atkinson
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham turn down offer for Diafra Sakho from Rennes
Last Updated: 20/01/18 9:49am
SSN
West Ham have rejected an offer from Rennes for striker Diafra Sakho,
according to Sky sources. Sakho passed an unauthorised medical with the
Ligue 1 club on the penultimate day of the last transfer window, although a
proposed £9m move to France failed to materialise for the 28-year-old. Sky
Sports News understands Sakho wants to leave the Hammers because he feels
undervalued compared to the club's other strikers. The forward currently
earns £30,000 a week at the London Stadium, while the other strikers in
squad earn between £80,000 and £110,000 a week. Sky Sports News understands
Crystal Palace agreed a fee, thought to be between £10m and £12m, for the
striker earlier this month, although one source close to the deal has
suggested Roy Hodgon's side have pulled out of the move.
Swansea, West Brom, Brighton, Bordeaux, Nice and Marseille are also
reportedly interested in the striker, who joined West Ham from Metz in 2014.
Sakho has played 17 games for the Hammers this season, although he is yet to
start a match in the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1-1 Bournemouth: Javier Hernandez salvages point for Hammers
By Michael Hincks
Last Updated: 20/01/18 6:20pm
SSN
Javier Hernandez scored two minutes after Ryan Fraser's opener as West Ham
came from behind to draw 1-1 with Bournemouth at the London Stadium.
Bournemouth went ahead with their first attempt on target when Fraser
powered a shot beyond Hammers 'keeper Adrian at his near post after 71
minutes. However, their joy was short-lived with substitute Hernandez - whom
the Hammers are reportedly willing to sell this January transfer window -
tucking home a loose ball, nine minutes after coming on for the injured
Manuel Lanzini. The draw means both sides extend their unbeaten Premier
League runs to five games, with West Ham sitting one place and one point
above Bournemouth in 11th. Expectation was high after the two sides had
shared the spoils in a six-goal thriller on Boxing Day, and it was West Ham
who started the strongest, with Aaron Cresswell seeing an effort from
distance flash wide.
Player ratings
West Ham: Adrian (6), Masuaku (7), Ogbonna (6), Collins (6), Zabaleta (7),
Cresswell (7), Obiang (7), Kouyate (6), Noble (8), Lanzini (7), Arnautovic
(7)
Subs: Hernandez (7), Rice (n/a), Byram (n/a)
Bournemouth: Begovic (7), Francis (6), Cook (7), Ake (7), Smith (6), Gosling
(6), Cook (7), Daniels (6), Ibe (5), Wilson (6), Fraser (7)
Subs: Stanislas (7), King (n/a)
Man of the match: Mark Noble
Mark Noble then volleyed narrowly over for the hosts, before Marko
Arnautovic forced a fine reaction save from Cherries 'keeper Asmir Begovic
when he met Pablo Zabaleta's cross six yards out. Bournemouth weathered the
storm and went close to breaking the deadlock themselves when Lewis Cook
curled an effort just wide following a well-worked corner routine. Momentum
swung back West Ham's way after the break, but again Begovic kept them at
bay when tipping away Zabaleta's cross before Lanzini could get a touch on
it. Arnautovic then found himself through on goal, but the forward hesitated
to strike with his left foot and allowed Steve Cook to come back and
intercept. The visitors went ahead when Junior Stanislas played a
perfectly-weighted pass for Fraser, who caught Adrian out with a near-post
effort - but their lead lasted all of two minutes.
From the kick-off, Arnautovic latched onto Hernandez's flick-on, but after
seeing his attempt blocked, the Mexican stole in to secure West Ham a point.
Opta stats
West Ham are unbeaten in five Premier League games (W2 D3), their longest
run without a league defeat since May (also 5).
Bournemouth are also unbeaten in five Premier League games (W2 D3) for the
first time since May (also 5).
Eddie Howe oversaw his 100th Premier League game, making him the third
youngest English manager to hit this milestone in the competition (40y 52d),
after Glenn Hoddle (38y 36d) and Gareth Southgate (38y 150d).
Ryan Fraser has been directly involved in four goals in his last three
Premier League games (3 goals, 1 assist), as many as in his previous 26.
Man of the match - Mark Noble
The West Ham skipper threw himself about in the middle of the park, and on
one occasion even flew in to make a diving header interception. Four
tackles, one clearance and three interceptions tells you only half the story
of Noble's contribution for West Ham, for he was equally as impressive when
setting the hosts up on the attack. All this after Noble revealed to Jamie
Redknapp in Friday's Daily Mail he makes sure the players' bonuses are
shared with every staff member - the man is West Ham through and through.
The managers
David Moyes: "In the end, I wasn't unhappy with a point, but I have to say
we missed some big chances which we could have got ourselves out of sight.
"I thought we played some of our best football this season, especially in
the first half, but Bournemouth got strong in the second part of both
halves, so in the end perhaps the draw was the right result."
Eddie Howe: "We didn't start the game particularly well, we came under
pressure early but did well to defend that and not concede. "We grew into
the game and scored a great goal from our perspective, and looked a real
threat on the counter attack in the second half. The frustrating thing is
the timing of their second goal.
"There was no time to enjoy it or build on it, which is frustrating. I don't
think the lads switched off or that it was a concentration issue, it was
just the fact we didn't win two big headers outside our box."
What's next?
West Ham head to Bournemouth's FA Cup conquerors, Wigan, in the fourth round
next Saturday, while Bournemouth are not in action until January 31, when
they travel to Chelsea for a midweek Premier League encounter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini injury a concern for West Ham boss David Moyes
By Michael Hincks
Last Updated: 20/01/18 7:02pm
SSN
David Moyes thought West Ham missed big chances but played some of their
best football of the season in their 1-1 draw against Bournemouth, adding
his concern over Manuel Lanzini's injury West Ham boss David Moyes has
concerns about Manuel Lanzini's injury after the attacking midfielder limped
off during the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth. Lanzini appeared to pull his
hamstring in the second half at the London Stadium, and was replaced by
Javier Hernandez, who scored the leveller for West Ham two minutes after
Ryan Fraser's 71st-minute opener.
Aaron Cresswell also hobbled off for the Hammers, but Moyes was far more
worried by the injury to Lanzini, who he labelled as irreplaceable when
asked if that would cause him to dip into the transfer market this month.
"We've had a few injuries and we're just getting through. Behind the scenes
we're just trying to nurse boys along," Moyes told Sky Sports after the
match. "We hope Mano's [Lanzini] isn't serious. Cressy is okay, but it's
more the Lanzini one that we're worried about.
"I don't think you can suddenly say, okay we'll go out, see if someone else
is out there waiting to be bought of the level of Lanzini, because I don't
think you've got that. "I think we will work with the players we've got, but
we've got too many out injured at the moment. "Ideally, if we got a couple
of players to add to the squad, it would help us, but it's not always that
easy to get the players you want. We're working hard and we'll keep trying
to get someone."
The draw stretches West Ham's unbeaten run to five Premier League games, but
Moyes was disappointed to see his side miss out on all three points at the
London Stadium. Asmir Begovic denied Marko Arnautovic from point-blank range
in the first half, while the Bournemouth 'keeper also parried away Pablo
Zabaleta's cross when Lanzini was about to pounce. Moyes said it was some of
West Ham's best football all season, though there will be a lingering
disappointment as a victory could have fired them into the top half of the
table. "In the end, I wasn't unhappy with a point, but I have to say we
missed some big chances which we could have got ourselves out of sight,"
Moyes added. "I thought we played some of our best football this season,
especially in the first half, but Bournemouth got strong in the second part
of both halves, so in the end perhaps the draw was the right result. "We
won't to look there, but we're mindful that it won't take too much to slip
down. It's another point to making sure we're in the right half of the
league."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham target Adama Soumaoro would be perfect for Everton
HITC
@saikatm87
West Ham are interested in Adama Soumaoro, but the highly rated Ligue 1 ace
would be perfect for Everton. Lille defender Adama Soumaoro has been one of
the stand out performers for the club this season, and he has been
attracting interest from Premier League clubs in the January transfer
window. According to The Mail in December, Premier League dup Everton and
West Ham are planning to sign the player in January. Lille are going through
a parlous financial condition and are prepared to sell, with Soumaoro being
valued at £20 million. Everton have signed two attacking forwards – Cenk
Tosun and Theo Walcott – in the January transfer window, but Allardyce could
be looking to bolster the defence as well. There could be an opportunity for
him in the long run at the heart of Everton's backline with Phil Jagielka
and Ashley Williams both past their best and Michael Keane failing to make a
strong impact following his move from Burnley. Soumaoro is a powerful and
aggressive defender who would drastically improve Everton's shaky defence.
He is versatile, and can operate as a right-back as well. Allardyce is fond
of quick and powerful defenders, and that is why Soumaoro is an ideal fit
for the Toffees.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss David Moyes to scout Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario ahead
of potential loan switch
The Hammers boss has made a midfield signing his No.1 priority before the
transfer window slams shut at the end of the month
The Mirror
ByMatt Lawless
12:08, 20 JAN 2018UPDATED14:21, 20 JAN 2018
David Moyes will run the rule over West Ham target Joao Mario at the San
Siro on Sunday night. The Hammers boss has made a midfield signing his No.1
priority before the transfer window slams shut at the end of the month. And
the Scot will make a personal scouting mission to Italy to see the Portugal
international in action for Inter Milan against Roma. A host of clubs are
interested in the 25-year-old, who has failed to live up to expectations
after joining the Serie A giants for £38million from Sporting Lisbon 18
months ago. Mirror Football understands that West Ham have reached an
agreement to sign the midfielder from Inter on loan until the end of the
season with a view to a permanent transfer. But boss Moyes wants to see him
first hand before making a final decision. Speaking during his press
conference ahead of the Hammers' Premier League clash with Bournemouth,
Moyes said of Mario: "He's a good player, an interesting player."
Moyes, 54, may also make a late swoop for a striker with West Ham ready to
take a hit on selling Javier Hernandez. The former Manchester United forward
arrived last summer from Bauer Leverkusen for £17m but has struggled to make
an impact. It is understood Turkish giants Besiktas are keen.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham captain Mark Noble's extraordinary act of kindness to club staff
The Hammers skipper, who has been at the club since he was 12, makes sure
his colleagues - including non-playing staff - are looked after
The Mirror
ByJon Livesey
11:34, 20 JAN 2018
It's fair to say West Ham midfielder Mark Noble takes his captain's
responsibilities seriously. The 30-year-old has been at the club since he
was 12, amassing more than 350 appearances. Known for his combative style,
he gives his all whenever he crosses the white line. However, he's revealed
he also goes the extra mile to make sure every one of his colleagues is
looked after. Noble, whose side face Bournemouth at home today, has lifted
the lid on his monthly act of kindness, explaining how he makes sure
players' bonuses are shared with staff. Speaking to Jamie Redknapp in an
interview for the Daily Mail, he said: "I want West Ham to do well. For the
fans, for the chef, for Shirley in the kitchen, who was here before your dad
(Harry Redknapp) was manager, for Jimmy Frith who comes in to help the
coaches every day, keeps things ticking over and has been doing so since
John Lyall brought him in. "I've known these people since I first came to
the club. I want the very best for this club. I make sure out of the
players' bonuses, every staff member shares in that bonus. We can't do it
without them."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
A finish from Chicharito – just 64 seconds after AFC Bournemouth had scored
– secured West Ham United a share of the points in a 1-1 draw with the
Cherries.
The effort from the Mexican striker came less than ten minutes after his
introduction to the game, with the forward combining well with Marko
Arnautovic to score his fifth goal of the season. Just a minute earlier the
away side had taken the lead, despite West Ham enjoying the best chances of
the game, as Ryan Fraser bulleted Bournemouth ahead. But Chicharito's
equalising effort secured a point for the Hammers and extended West Ham's
unbeaten run to seven games.
West Ham began the game brightly, with David Moyes's side showing a flair to
their passing. A long-ranged effort from Aaron Cresswell was almost flicked
towards goal by Manuel Lanzini, but the No10 couldn't quite connect with the
shot. Mark Noble also came close to opening the scoring when, just ten
minutes into the game, the captain attempted a spectacular volley from the
edge of the box, which went just over the cross-bar. Pablo Zabaleta then
played a terrific ball into the penalty area. Arnautovic got a touch and, if
not for a late hand from Asmir Begovic, the effort would have found the net.
Bournemouth's opportunities on goal were limited in the first period but a
short corner routine almost caught West Ham out. The ball was played to
Lewis Cook, but his curling effort went just wide of the far post.
The second half was an open contest and Lanzini continued to impress with
the Argentinian latching onto a clever ball from Cresswell, before firing
over the bar after some great skill a couple of minutes later. Arnautovic
and Cheikhou Kouyate linked amazingly to fashion an opening on the hour but
West Ham's No7 couldn't get the ball from under his feet. On 71 minutes,
despite their lack of chances, the away side took the lead. Ryan Fraser was
found by former Hammer Junior Stanislas, and the winger fired in a powerful
shot at the near post. It took the Irons just 64 seconds to equalise though!
Chicharito – on as a substitute for Lanzini – headed the ball into
Arnautovic, who set the Mexican up to tap home from close range just eight
minutes after entering the fray.
West Ham United: Adrian; Zabaleta, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell (Byram 90'),
Masuaku; Obiang, Kouyate (Rice 90'), Noble; Lanzini (Chicharito 64'),
Arnautovic
Subs not used: Hart, Burke, Cullen, Martinez
Goals: Chicharito 73'
AFC Bournemouth: Begovic; Francis (c), S Cook, Ake, Daniels; Fraser (King
85;), Gosling, Smith, L Cook, Ibe (Stanislas 62'); Wilson
Subs not used: Boruc, Surman, Mousset, Simpson, Frazer Taylor
Goals: Fraser 72'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble: It's another point closer to where we need to be
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble thought the Hammers showed good heart to earn their point against
AFC Bournemouth on Saturday – especially given their efforts to make
progress in the FA Cup during the week. Seven of David Moyes' starters
played some part over the 120 minutes of Tuesday's cup win against
Shrewsbury, but still found the energy to pull a result out of the bag after
Ryan Fraser's 71st minute goal threatened to derail their unbeaten start to
2018. The hosts rallied immediately, with Chicharito equalising just 64
seconds later, and skipper Noble felt the draw was a fair result. "I'd say
it was a pretty even game to be honest," the No16 explained. "We started off
really well and had a couple of good chances but just couldn't quite find
the back of the net. "They got back into the game and after going 1-0 down
to score ourselves straight away was fantastic. "You could tell that the 120
minutes on Tuesday affected our last 20 minutes, but we got a result –
another point – and that's the main thing."
Chicharito came off the bench to score the all-important goal and Noble had
praise for the Mexican after he notched his fifth of the campaign. He
continued: "We brought Chicha on, he hasn't played much football recently,
and that's what he does – get in those positions. "I hope there's lots more
to come, he's a great finisher as we know. The way Manu and Marko have been
playing, obviously the manager has had to stick with them, but he's come on
and scored a very important goal for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes: We're making progress
WHUFC.com
David Moyes says the Hammers are continuing to make progress after
Chicharito struck to maintain their seven-match unbeaten run in Saturday's
1-1 draw with AFC Bournemouth. West Ham had to rally from a goal behind when
Ryan Fraser put the Cherries in front, but their response was immediate and
Moyes was happy with what he saw from his team. The manager described the
opening 45 minutes of the contest as the best his team had played on the
ball since he took the reins in November, with only the finishing touch
missing. So, with another point chalked up on the board, Moyes was content
with the performance as the east Londoners ensured their undefeated record
in 2018 continued. He said: "I think with 15 minutes to go I might have said
'I'll take the point', but prior to that we had some good play. I think in
the first half especially we played some really good football and we missed
some big chances today. We just missed that clinical cutting edge to show
how good that football had been. "I'm thrilled with how we reacted to their
goal. Normally when you lose the first goal in the Premier League it's very
difficult to get back, and I don't think there's too much between the teams
in this part of the table. "It keeps the momentum going. We're nudging
along, making progress, the most important thing come the end of the season
is not to be in the bottom three, but in the same breath I've got my eyes
looking up to see if we can make the top ten as well. "The first thing is
making sure the back door is shut and a point today wasn't the worst
result."
One of Moyes' substitutes, Chicharito, landed the crucial equalising goal
and the manager said his team need to provide the Mexican with more
opportunities to show what he can do in the box. "It's the kind of reaction
that he's about," he explained. "We know that's what he does – he's the sort
of centre forward who has made a living out of being a fox in the box and
scoring at every opportunity they get. "Chicharito needs those sort of
opportunities and we need to get more of the ball in the box. There was that
one, and we put a great one in just after it across the face of the box, but
we needed him today. All the boys here will play a part and Chicharito
helped us today."
One downside was an apparent hamstring injury sustained by Manuel Lanzini in
the second half, with Moyes left hoping the problem is not a serious one. He
added: "Manu has a bit of a hamstring, Cresswell's was just complete cramp
and he should be ok. Manu is the problem and we hope it isn't serious. We're
short on the bench at the moment, we've got a lot of injuries, but the boys
are doing a great job and some of them had to play 120 minutes in midweek,
so great credit to them. "We could do with a body or two coming in, so we'll
try to do that. We're working on it and we'll try to get the right players
and people who we think can help us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1-1 BOURNEMOUTH – MATCH REPORT
AUTHOR: BRIAN KNOX. PUBLISHED: 20 JANUARY 2018 AT 8:04PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Match Report by @WestHamAmerican
West Ham staved off a near disastrous outing at the London Stadium today
when Javier Hernandez quickly answered Ryan Fraser's 71st minute goal to
hold a draw and keep the Hammer's record of seven matches without loss in
all competitions.
The match was an interesting study in roster management. Both sides had
mid-week FA Cup ties against lower competition. While West Ham had made
seven changes prior to that match, they required extra time and a long shift
by Manual Lanzini and other regular first teamers to earn a late 1-0 victory
over Shrewsbury Town. For the Cherries, they played a predominantly
youthful side against Wigan and fell 3-0, but preserved their primary
contributors.
In the early going the match was entirely owned by the hosts. Pablo Zabaleta
crossed to Marko Arnautovic whose shot was collected by a strong effort from
Asmir Begović. The Bosnian played well to keep West Ham out of the goal.
Pedro Obiang had another dangerous effort but his shot was just off of
target.
After the initial half hour of play, the Hammers seemed to lose their focus
and intensity. The Bournemouth goal was primarily a result of Junior
Stanislas's set up. He found Fraser on the left side of the area and his
shot sailed out of Adrian's reach inside the near post.
It took only a minute for West Ham to answer as Hernandez, who had come on
for an injured Lanzini, picked up a rebounded shot from Arnautovic and found
the equaliser off of the kick off.
With time to go, West Ham desperately wanted all three points but was unable
to generate much attacking creativity absent Lanzini. Bournemouth almost
took the match for themselves when soon after the previous goal Stanislas
took aim and Adrian was able to direct the shot over the crossbar.
Neither team was able to muster another goal, and the match ended 1-1. The
most notable results of the day for the Hammers were the injuries to Lanzini
and Aaron Cresswell. A very good team is in the training room, recovering,
and while West Ham have the benefit of bottom-half competition for the next
four matches, they will suffer without returning contributions from Michel
Antonio and Jose Fonte.
The Hammers remain 11th in the league but only five points from safety.
Regardless of the outcome of the approaching FA Cup tie with Wigan, West Ham
will need to find some victories over the next four weeks to ensure safety.
The most important member of the club as of now is the team physio.
Please continue to follow TheWestHamWay.co.uk as the January transfer window
comes to a close. @ExWHUemployee has the latest information before everyone
else does. Follow us all month long.
West Ham: Adrian, Zabaleta, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Masuaku, Obiang,
Noble, Kouyate, Lanzini, Arnautovic.
Subs: Hart, Byram (92) , Hernandez (64), Rice (90'), Cullen, Martinez,
Burke
Bournemouth: Begovic, Ake, S. Cook, Francis, Daniels, Smith, L. Cook,
Gosling, Fraser, Ibe, Wilson.
Subs: Boruc, Surman, King (85'), Stanislas (62'), Mousset, Simpson, Taylor
Referee: Martin Atkinson
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West Ham turn down offer for Diafra Sakho from Rennes
Last Updated: 20/01/18 9:49am
SSN
West Ham have rejected an offer from Rennes for striker Diafra Sakho,
according to Sky sources. Sakho passed an unauthorised medical with the
Ligue 1 club on the penultimate day of the last transfer window, although a
proposed £9m move to France failed to materialise for the 28-year-old. Sky
Sports News understands Sakho wants to leave the Hammers because he feels
undervalued compared to the club's other strikers. The forward currently
earns £30,000 a week at the London Stadium, while the other strikers in
squad earn between £80,000 and £110,000 a week. Sky Sports News understands
Crystal Palace agreed a fee, thought to be between £10m and £12m, for the
striker earlier this month, although one source close to the deal has
suggested Roy Hodgon's side have pulled out of the move.
Swansea, West Brom, Brighton, Bordeaux, Nice and Marseille are also
reportedly interested in the striker, who joined West Ham from Metz in 2014.
Sakho has played 17 games for the Hammers this season, although he is yet to
start a match in the Premier League.
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West Ham 1-1 Bournemouth: Javier Hernandez salvages point for Hammers
By Michael Hincks
Last Updated: 20/01/18 6:20pm
SSN
Javier Hernandez scored two minutes after Ryan Fraser's opener as West Ham
came from behind to draw 1-1 with Bournemouth at the London Stadium.
Bournemouth went ahead with their first attempt on target when Fraser
powered a shot beyond Hammers 'keeper Adrian at his near post after 71
minutes. However, their joy was short-lived with substitute Hernandez - whom
the Hammers are reportedly willing to sell this January transfer window -
tucking home a loose ball, nine minutes after coming on for the injured
Manuel Lanzini. The draw means both sides extend their unbeaten Premier
League runs to five games, with West Ham sitting one place and one point
above Bournemouth in 11th. Expectation was high after the two sides had
shared the spoils in a six-goal thriller on Boxing Day, and it was West Ham
who started the strongest, with Aaron Cresswell seeing an effort from
distance flash wide.
Player ratings
West Ham: Adrian (6), Masuaku (7), Ogbonna (6), Collins (6), Zabaleta (7),
Cresswell (7), Obiang (7), Kouyate (6), Noble (8), Lanzini (7), Arnautovic
(7)
Subs: Hernandez (7), Rice (n/a), Byram (n/a)
Bournemouth: Begovic (7), Francis (6), Cook (7), Ake (7), Smith (6), Gosling
(6), Cook (7), Daniels (6), Ibe (5), Wilson (6), Fraser (7)
Subs: Stanislas (7), King (n/a)
Man of the match: Mark Noble
Mark Noble then volleyed narrowly over for the hosts, before Marko
Arnautovic forced a fine reaction save from Cherries 'keeper Asmir Begovic
when he met Pablo Zabaleta's cross six yards out. Bournemouth weathered the
storm and went close to breaking the deadlock themselves when Lewis Cook
curled an effort just wide following a well-worked corner routine. Momentum
swung back West Ham's way after the break, but again Begovic kept them at
bay when tipping away Zabaleta's cross before Lanzini could get a touch on
it. Arnautovic then found himself through on goal, but the forward hesitated
to strike with his left foot and allowed Steve Cook to come back and
intercept. The visitors went ahead when Junior Stanislas played a
perfectly-weighted pass for Fraser, who caught Adrian out with a near-post
effort - but their lead lasted all of two minutes.
From the kick-off, Arnautovic latched onto Hernandez's flick-on, but after
seeing his attempt blocked, the Mexican stole in to secure West Ham a point.
Opta stats
West Ham are unbeaten in five Premier League games (W2 D3), their longest
run without a league defeat since May (also 5).
Bournemouth are also unbeaten in five Premier League games (W2 D3) for the
first time since May (also 5).
Eddie Howe oversaw his 100th Premier League game, making him the third
youngest English manager to hit this milestone in the competition (40y 52d),
after Glenn Hoddle (38y 36d) and Gareth Southgate (38y 150d).
Ryan Fraser has been directly involved in four goals in his last three
Premier League games (3 goals, 1 assist), as many as in his previous 26.
Man of the match - Mark Noble
The West Ham skipper threw himself about in the middle of the park, and on
one occasion even flew in to make a diving header interception. Four
tackles, one clearance and three interceptions tells you only half the story
of Noble's contribution for West Ham, for he was equally as impressive when
setting the hosts up on the attack. All this after Noble revealed to Jamie
Redknapp in Friday's Daily Mail he makes sure the players' bonuses are
shared with every staff member - the man is West Ham through and through.
The managers
David Moyes: "In the end, I wasn't unhappy with a point, but I have to say
we missed some big chances which we could have got ourselves out of sight.
"I thought we played some of our best football this season, especially in
the first half, but Bournemouth got strong in the second part of both
halves, so in the end perhaps the draw was the right result."
Eddie Howe: "We didn't start the game particularly well, we came under
pressure early but did well to defend that and not concede. "We grew into
the game and scored a great goal from our perspective, and looked a real
threat on the counter attack in the second half. The frustrating thing is
the timing of their second goal.
"There was no time to enjoy it or build on it, which is frustrating. I don't
think the lads switched off or that it was a concentration issue, it was
just the fact we didn't win two big headers outside our box."
What's next?
West Ham head to Bournemouth's FA Cup conquerors, Wigan, in the fourth round
next Saturday, while Bournemouth are not in action until January 31, when
they travel to Chelsea for a midweek Premier League encounter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini injury a concern for West Ham boss David Moyes
By Michael Hincks
Last Updated: 20/01/18 7:02pm
SSN
David Moyes thought West Ham missed big chances but played some of their
best football of the season in their 1-1 draw against Bournemouth, adding
his concern over Manuel Lanzini's injury West Ham boss David Moyes has
concerns about Manuel Lanzini's injury after the attacking midfielder limped
off during the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth. Lanzini appeared to pull his
hamstring in the second half at the London Stadium, and was replaced by
Javier Hernandez, who scored the leveller for West Ham two minutes after
Ryan Fraser's 71st-minute opener.
Aaron Cresswell also hobbled off for the Hammers, but Moyes was far more
worried by the injury to Lanzini, who he labelled as irreplaceable when
asked if that would cause him to dip into the transfer market this month.
"We've had a few injuries and we're just getting through. Behind the scenes
we're just trying to nurse boys along," Moyes told Sky Sports after the
match. "We hope Mano's [Lanzini] isn't serious. Cressy is okay, but it's
more the Lanzini one that we're worried about.
"I don't think you can suddenly say, okay we'll go out, see if someone else
is out there waiting to be bought of the level of Lanzini, because I don't
think you've got that. "I think we will work with the players we've got, but
we've got too many out injured at the moment. "Ideally, if we got a couple
of players to add to the squad, it would help us, but it's not always that
easy to get the players you want. We're working hard and we'll keep trying
to get someone."
The draw stretches West Ham's unbeaten run to five Premier League games, but
Moyes was disappointed to see his side miss out on all three points at the
London Stadium. Asmir Begovic denied Marko Arnautovic from point-blank range
in the first half, while the Bournemouth 'keeper also parried away Pablo
Zabaleta's cross when Lanzini was about to pounce. Moyes said it was some of
West Ham's best football all season, though there will be a lingering
disappointment as a victory could have fired them into the top half of the
table. "In the end, I wasn't unhappy with a point, but I have to say we
missed some big chances which we could have got ourselves out of sight,"
Moyes added. "I thought we played some of our best football this season,
especially in the first half, but Bournemouth got strong in the second part
of both halves, so in the end perhaps the draw was the right result. "We
won't to look there, but we're mindful that it won't take too much to slip
down. It's another point to making sure we're in the right half of the
league."
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West Ham target Adama Soumaoro would be perfect for Everton
HITC
@saikatm87
West Ham are interested in Adama Soumaoro, but the highly rated Ligue 1 ace
would be perfect for Everton. Lille defender Adama Soumaoro has been one of
the stand out performers for the club this season, and he has been
attracting interest from Premier League clubs in the January transfer
window. According to The Mail in December, Premier League dup Everton and
West Ham are planning to sign the player in January. Lille are going through
a parlous financial condition and are prepared to sell, with Soumaoro being
valued at £20 million. Everton have signed two attacking forwards – Cenk
Tosun and Theo Walcott – in the January transfer window, but Allardyce could
be looking to bolster the defence as well. There could be an opportunity for
him in the long run at the heart of Everton's backline with Phil Jagielka
and Ashley Williams both past their best and Michael Keane failing to make a
strong impact following his move from Burnley. Soumaoro is a powerful and
aggressive defender who would drastically improve Everton's shaky defence.
He is versatile, and can operate as a right-back as well. Allardyce is fond
of quick and powerful defenders, and that is why Soumaoro is an ideal fit
for the Toffees.
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West Ham boss David Moyes to scout Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario ahead
of potential loan switch
The Hammers boss has made a midfield signing his No.1 priority before the
transfer window slams shut at the end of the month
The Mirror
ByMatt Lawless
12:08, 20 JAN 2018UPDATED14:21, 20 JAN 2018
David Moyes will run the rule over West Ham target Joao Mario at the San
Siro on Sunday night. The Hammers boss has made a midfield signing his No.1
priority before the transfer window slams shut at the end of the month. And
the Scot will make a personal scouting mission to Italy to see the Portugal
international in action for Inter Milan against Roma. A host of clubs are
interested in the 25-year-old, who has failed to live up to expectations
after joining the Serie A giants for £38million from Sporting Lisbon 18
months ago. Mirror Football understands that West Ham have reached an
agreement to sign the midfielder from Inter on loan until the end of the
season with a view to a permanent transfer. But boss Moyes wants to see him
first hand before making a final decision. Speaking during his press
conference ahead of the Hammers' Premier League clash with Bournemouth,
Moyes said of Mario: "He's a good player, an interesting player."
Moyes, 54, may also make a late swoop for a striker with West Ham ready to
take a hit on selling Javier Hernandez. The former Manchester United forward
arrived last summer from Bauer Leverkusen for £17m but has struggled to make
an impact. It is understood Turkish giants Besiktas are keen.
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West Ham captain Mark Noble's extraordinary act of kindness to club staff
The Hammers skipper, who has been at the club since he was 12, makes sure
his colleagues - including non-playing staff - are looked after
The Mirror
ByJon Livesey
11:34, 20 JAN 2018
It's fair to say West Ham midfielder Mark Noble takes his captain's
responsibilities seriously. The 30-year-old has been at the club since he
was 12, amassing more than 350 appearances. Known for his combative style,
he gives his all whenever he crosses the white line. However, he's revealed
he also goes the extra mile to make sure every one of his colleagues is
looked after. Noble, whose side face Bournemouth at home today, has lifted
the lid on his monthly act of kindness, explaining how he makes sure
players' bonuses are shared with staff. Speaking to Jamie Redknapp in an
interview for the Daily Mail, he said: "I want West Ham to do well. For the
fans, for the chef, for Shirley in the kitchen, who was here before your dad
(Harry Redknapp) was manager, for Jimmy Frith who comes in to help the
coaches every day, keeps things ticking over and has been doing so since
John Lyall brought him in. "I've known these people since I first came to
the club. I want the very best for this club. I make sure out of the
players' bonuses, every staff member shares in that bonus. We can't do it
without them."
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