Fernandes named in provisional Switzerland World Cup squad
WHUFC.com
Edimilson Fernandes moved one step closer to featuring at the 2018 FIFA
World Cup finals after being named in Switzerland's preliminary 26-man
squad. The Swiss became the last of the 32 competing countries to name a
provisional group, with the 26 selected taking part in a training camp and a
warm-up friendly with Spain in Villarreal on Sunday 3 June. Coach Vladimir
Petkovic will name his final 23-man squad the following day, Monday 4 June,
with Fernandes hoping to join his cousin and namesake Gelson and former West
Ham United midfielder Valon Behrami on the plane to Russia, where they will
face Brazil, Serbia and Costa Rica in Group E Aside from uncapped
goalkeepers Gregor Kobel and Yvon Mbogo, Fernandes is the least experienced
player in Petkovic's 26-man squad with three caps, all of which have ended
in victory. The versatile 22-year-old made his senior debut in a World Cup
qualifier against the Faroe Islands in November 2016 and has since featured
in a friendly win at home to Belarus and World Cup qualifying win over
Andorra. Former FC Sion player and Swiss Cup winner Fernandes totalled 16
appearances for the Hammers last season, as his campaign was twice
interrupted by ankle problems. He could be one of four West Ham players at
this summer's tournament alongside Chicharito (Mexico), Cheikhou Kouyate
(Senegal) and Manuel Lanzini (Argentina), while loanee Joao Mario (Portugal)
is also Russia-bound.
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West Ham United Ladies granted WSL status
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies are delighted to announce that the team has been
granted a licence to play in the FA Women's Super League, the restructured
top tier of women's football, for the 2018/19 season. The Irons will be one
of 11 teams to compete in the 2018/19 campaign of the FA Women's Super
League; the first full-time, professional division for female players in
England. David Sullivan is delighted with the Ladies' successful application
to join the WSL and is eager for the new campaign to begin. "Earning Women's
Super League status is an incredible achievement for everyone involved in
our Ladies team, and I would like to say congratulations and well done to
the side for their hard work in reaching the WSL," the Club's Joint-Chairman
told whufc.com. "Now, the hard work really begins for everyone involved. I
have every confidence that Managing Director Jack Sullivan and General
Manager Karen Ray will lead our team to the forefront of women's football in
the top division. "Once again, I would like to express my thanks to everyone
involved in our Ladies side for their determination and I look forward to
seeing what the team can accomplish going forward."
The Hammers have enjoyed huge success in 2018, with the side winning two
trophies – the FA WPL Plate and the Goodmove.co.uk Women's Cup – while also
claiming wins in 12 of their 15 competitive fixtures this calendar year.
Managing Director Jack Sullivan is hopeful of seeing that success continue
to grow when the WSL campaign kicks off in August. He said: "This is a great
day for the Club and a proud one for all involved. The hard work from
everyone at the Club has paid off and we are really excited for what lies
ahead. We are very happy to be at the top of the women's footballing
pyramid, but we all know that the hard work has only just started. We want
to be competitive, which means a very busy summer on and off the pitch. "We
want to see as many fans as possible to watch our Ladies team and women's
football. This is an incredible opportunity for the Club to galvanise the
local community and West Ham United supporters."On a personal level, I feel
I have learned a lot this year and I am already looking forward to what the
new season will bring for West Ham Ladies."
The restructure of women's football will see the current FA WSL1 rebranded
as the Women's Super League – West Ham's division for next season – while a
new national league is to be established at tier 2, which will be known as
the FA Women's Championship. Promotion and relegation will be applicable
throughout all tiers of the women's football pyramid. General Manager Karen
Ray has also offered her thanks to everyone who has supported the Ladies
this season and is relishing the challenge of playing in the WSL. Ray added:
"I couldn't be prouder of this achievement for the Club and what an amazing
way to top off an incredible 2018 so far. This process has really
highlighted the unity and togetherness from everyone who proudly works for
West Ham United. "Despite the big step up, I am confident we will rise to
the challenge and relish the opportunity to join some of the best women's
clubs in the world at the top of the football pyramid in England. We know
the hard work that lies ahead and we are extremely excited to begin the next
chapter of the Ladies' journey. "This is the perfect time for us to thank
everyone who has shown a truly vested interest and dedication to the
progression of both West Ham United Ladies and women's football in England."
Season Tickets for West Ham United Ladies' first campaign in the FA Women's
Super League are on sale now from just £15! Follow the link here for more
information!
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Chicharito: We want to create history at the World Cup
WHUFC.com
Chicharito is dreaming of creating history with Mexico as El Tri step up
their FIFA World Cup finals preparations by facing a Wales team managed by
his former teammate Ryan Giggs. Mexico's all-time leading goalscorer with 49
goals will earn his 101st cap in the United States as Juan Carlos Osorio
looks to cut his final squad to 23 players for the upcoming trip to Russia.
Speaking to the media ahead of Monday night's friendly in Pasadena,
California, the West Ham United striker would dearly love to lead his
country all the way for the first time in their history. Mexico have been
eliminated at the Round of 16 in each of the last six World Cups – the last
two with Chicharito in the side – and never gone past the quarter-finals in
16 attempts, but the 29-year-old is dreaming of lifting the trophy on 15
July. However, the Little Pea knows circumstances will need to conspire in
Mexico's favour if they are to pull off a major shock in Moscow. "There
isn't one thing that will make us create history," he said. "What we want is
try everything so that the universe conspires in our favour and we can
deserve to win. Even though the beauty of football is that you can't
guarantee that."
Before his thoughts turn totally to Russia, and Group F fixtures with
Germany, South Korea and Sweden, Chicharito will first tackle a Wales side
managed by a man he knows very well – Ryan Giggs. While the Hammers forward
is looking forward to catching up with Giggs, he is eager to get one over
his old pal as Mexico play the first of three pre-World Cup friendlies, with
warm-up fixtures with Scotland and Denmark also on the agenda. "It's going
to be very good to see Ryan again. Ryan is in a new role now and to be
manager of his country is great. "But the most important thing is we are
preparing well, we know we are going to the World Cup and Wales aren't. But
that doesn't mean we are not taking them seriously, we will be very
respectful and we want to improve compared to our other previous matches.
"It's going to be a very nice moment in Los Angeles where we have a lot of
Mexicans to support us."
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Legend recovering after heart op
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 28th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
Hammers legend Ken Brown is recovering in hospital after having a pacemaker
fitted. The 84-year-old, who was born in Forest Gate and spent 14 years as a
Hammer between 1953 and 1967 is said to be in good shape after undergoing
the operation according to son Kenny, who tweeted the following message:
Ken, who was the latest recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award at last
month's Player Awards starred in West Ham's promotion-winning season of
1957/58, the 1964 FA Cup victory against Preston and the 1965 Cup Winners
Cup success against 1860 Munich. A regular visitor to the Boleyn Ground and
the Olympic Stadium in recent seasons, Ken went on to manage Norwich,
Shrewsbury and Plymouth before retiring but always remains most closely
associated with West Ham. And it was not just his family wishing him well -
former players such as Mick Dennis and Martin Betts also took to social
media in order to wish Ken a speedy recovery.
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End of the road for Snodgrass, say Villa fans
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 28th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
On-loan winger Robert Snodgrass is unlikely to return to Aston Villa next
season, according to fans of the Championship club - although most would be
open to a second season. The 30-year-old Scottish international spent the
entirety of the 2017/18 campaign on loan at Villa Park and received
generally positive reviews for his season's efforts, despite Villa's
campaign ending in hugely-disappointing circumstances following their
play-off final defeat against Fulham at Wembley on Saturday. However Villa
fans posting on popular Forum Villa Talk believe they are unlikely to see
Snodgrass for a second season in the Championship despite him being surplus
to requirements at West Ham, for whom he featured on just 15 occasions
before being sent out on season-long loan. And that's largely as a result of
Villa's parlous financial situation, which will almost certainly mean they
have to part company with high-earners such as Snodgrass and John Terry, who
was costing the Midlands-based club some £60,000-per-week. "Snoddy has been
great but West Ham are unlikely to let him leave for a low fee," wrote Villa
fans Eastie. "So he's probably not going to be here [next season]." "He has
been fantastic for us but the last four weeks have shown that (a) the
Championship or lower Premier League is very much his level and (b) he is
not worth whatever West Ham will want for him, added Ponky. "I doubt he'll
be available on loan again next season which is probably just as well, as we
desperately need some pace out wide."
Despite having been a success during his season on loan, a lack of speed and
acceleration is one area of Snodgrass' game that has been criticised by
Villa supporters - although at Championship level that isn't necessarily a
huge problem, say some. "He doesn't have pace but it's not a flaw," wrote
skarroki. "But he's a very talented player and should not be in the
Championship. "We were lucky to get him on loan for a season and if he's
not here next season it's because he's got much better options at a higher
level, not because we'd rather risk playing an inconsistent winger from the
Academy. His drive and personality can only have a positive effect on the
dressing room and I will be gutted to see him go."
Fellow Villain markavfc40 was in full agreement. "If he had pace he would be
starting week in, week out for a top half Premier League side," he wrote.
"Technically he is very good and his work rate is excellent. I'd like him to
stay but he won't and him leaving does allow us to improve on a lack of pace
in the team."
Yet not all Villa supporters felt that losing SNodgrass will be to the
detriment of the team as a whole. "He often fails to beat his man, his ball
delivery has been disappointing and his free kicks are an abomination,"
wrote sidcow.
"I know his attitude is great and he gives his all, but ultimately he's
meant to be a winger and therefore should frequently beat his man and get in
a deadly cross. I'm just not seeing what other people are and I won't be
devastated if we cannot get him back."
Villains on Snodders
"He is elite level Championship, low level Premier League standard. As you
say, he more than makes up for it with other qualities, but he lacks pace,
which can be identified, exposed and dealt with accordingly, a flaw."
- A'Villan
"Good player for us but one who won't be with us next year, of all the loan
players I think he has helped the most."
- Jimzk5
"Love his mentality and he has put some great performances in, but the final
showed how painfully predictable he is with that lack of pace and cutting
inside every single time, holding onto the ball for longer than he should.
He also made the wrong decision in what could have ended up as our most
clear cut chance of the game.
- Tom13
"I don't see Pellegrini playing him so he may be out on loan again. It's
well documented that his issue as West Ham was he Bilic wouldn't play him on
his favoured side , which we have but it's meant that when things are not
going right we don't switch the wingers over. I do like him though and he
has done well and comes across as a decent character but I think that's he
last of his time here."
- Nabby
"He monopolieses our set pieces and his delivery isnt that great (must be
better in training), his work rate is excellent and he's a below average
Premier League player but probably one of our better players. Let him go
unless he's cheap."
- tinker
"Snodgrass' set pieces have gone beyond shocking. I'm sick of seeing him hit
free kicks into a wall and over-hitting corners. He is slow as well. Would I
take him back on loan? Possibly, but for me his lack of pace is a massive
problem. We are shit offensively at counter attacking as our midfield are
like snails."
- Demitri_C
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Hammers promoted in controversial circumstances
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 28th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United Ladies will play in the highest division of the Women's
Super League next season - despite ending the 2017/18 mid-table in the third
tier. It was confirmed this morning that the Ladies, who finished 7th out of
12 in the Women's Premier Southern Division last season have been
controversially granted a place in the newly-named professional Women's
Super League. Controversial because Sunderland, who finished a respectable
7th in last season's Premier Division have been dumped into the Premier
Northern Division in order to accommodate the Hammers, who are one of 11
teams that will be forming the reformatted league.
In order to become a professional concern, any club must raise a minimum of
£350,000. West Ham, who have satisfied that criteria will begin their new
campaign on the weekend of 18/19 August. West Ham's co-chairman David
Sullivan, whose son Jack was placed in charge of the Ladies in 2016, said:
"Earning Women's Super League status is an incredible achievement for
everyone involved in our Ladies team. "I have every confidence that Managing
Director Jack Sullivan and General Manager Karen Ray will lead our team to
the forefront of women's football in the top division and I look forward to
seeing what the team can accomplish going forward."
Sullivan Jnr took control of the Ladies team in October 2016 after former
Chairman Stephen Hunt lodged a formal complaint with the FA. Hunt accused
the club of discriminating against the team who had to pay for their own
transport to games, wear out-of-date kit and train on the side of the road
having been locked out of the club's Beckton training ground.
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STICK OR TWIST: THE STRIKERS
By Iain Dale 28 May 2018 at 08:56
WTID
So far I haven't advocated selling many players. Our squad is thin enough as
it is. However, will this be different with our strikers?
Andy Carroll
Andy only made 16 appearances, mostly from the bench, last season, scoring
three goals. In his entire career at West Ham he has made 114 appearances,
scoring 33 goals. Season by season, he has appeared 24, 15, 14, 27, 18 and
16 times. On his day he is unbeatable, but each time he returns from injury
it takes him a few games to get into gear. We've never really played to his
strengths, either. He has one year left on his contract, and will probably
play it out. If we could get £10-£15 million for him I'm afraid I'd
recommend selling, but with a lot of regrets.
Javier Hernandez
Chicarito was bought last summer with much fanfare and started off well,
scoring three goals in his first few games. Since then he suffered several
injuries and then found it difficult to get back into the team once
Arnautovic hit form. He's clearly unhappy and is looking for a move after
the World Cup, where he will be in the shop window. If we keep him, our
forward line would need to be built around him. Is that really likely if
Arnautovic remains at the club?
Marko Arnautovic
Probably the easiest 'stick' of the lot. He had a fabulous season once David
Moyes was appointed. However, it's entirely possibly that once of the top
six could come in for him, and he might find it difficult to reject the
chance of European football at this stage in his career. Let's hope he
really is as committed to West Ham as he makes out.
Jordan Hugill
Since he was signed for £10 million in January he's played for all of 33
minutes, despite being on the bench for virtually every game. We might well
recoup much of the money if we sell in the summer, but if we leave it and he
doesn't get much playing time, that's a hell of a lot of money to lose.
Sell.
Toni Martinez
Back from a loan spell in Spain, where he scored only once in 8 games,
Martinez is hitting the point of no return. He scores for fun in the Under
23s but can't seem to translate that into first team form. Even his loan
periods in the lower leagues haven't been prolific. I think now is probably
the time to sell him to a lower league side for £1 million or thereabouts.
Conclusion
We need to sign at least one quality striker this transfer window, but given
Arnautovic will be an automatic first choice (you'd think), will it be that
easy to attrach anyone top class? We need to have a pool of five, rather
than four strikers to choose from, in my view. It's a position where we've
always lacked strength in depth.
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West Ham set to appoint Mario Husillos as head of recruitment... despite his
involvement in Malaga's relegation from La Liga
West Ham are close to appointing Mario Husillos as new head of recruitment
Husillos' role at Malaga has been under scrutiny after the side were
relegated
Manuel Pellegrini recommended Husillos having worked with him at Malaga
By Sami Mokbel for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 19:45, 28 May 2018 | UPDATED: 19:45, 28 May 2018
West Ham are closing in on appointing Mario Husillos as their new head of
recruitment. MailOnline exclusively revealed the Hammers' move for the
Argentine on May 19 and the club are now in advanced discussions about
bringing Husillos to the London Stadium from Malaga. New manager Manuel
Pellegrini and Husillos forged a close relationship during their time
working together at Malaga. And Pellegrini is understood to have recommended
his old colleague to co-owner David Sullivan. Husillos' role at Malaga has
been under scrutiny following the Spanish club's relegation from La Liga.
If, as expected, the South American transfer fixer is appointed, will play a
key role in the club's recruitment policy alongside Pellegrini. It remains
to be seen, however, the level of input the club's owners have in their
forthcoming transfer dealings. Tony Henry, who previously held the role of
head of recruitment, was sacked by West Ham earlier this year following
racist remarks about potential signings of African descent.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, May 29
Monday, May 28
Daily WHUFC News - 28th May 2018
Noble: I'm relishing Pellegrini's attacking approach
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble is relishing the prospect of playing in an attack-minded,
possession-based West Ham United team under Manuel Pellegrini. The Chilean
has forged a reputation for putting together sides who play on the front
foot, dominate the ball and score plenty of goals. And the captain, who
regularly leads West Ham's own possession stats, cannot wait to start
working with the man who led a record-breaking Manchester City to the
Premier League title in 2014. "As captain, I am looking forward to welcoming
the new manager to the Club when we return for pre-season training," said
the two-time Hammer of the Year, who launched the I'm Forever campaign for
the Club's new 2018/19 Umbro Home and Away kits on Friday. "I'm sure I'll
have a chat with him before then and I'll definitely give him the lowdown on
West Ham United and what the Club means to its supporters, although I am
sure he has already done his own homework and knows plenty about the Club
and its traditions. "He will be looking to the future, too, and I'm sure he
will bring in his own staff and we will be linked to lots of potential new
signings over the next few weeks!"
Pellegrini's City scored a record 151 goals in his first season at the club
and Noble believes his forward-thinking approach will go down well, both in
the dressing room and in the stands. "As players, it's always more enjoyable
when you have the ball than when you are chasing the other team around, so I
was pleased when I heard him say he wants to excite the fans and play
attacking football. "West Ham fans love it when we take it to the
opposition, particularly the big boys, and it sounds like we're going to
give it a right go. "I'm already looking forward to getting back to Rush
Green and starting work under him."
Pellegrini led all four European clubs he has managed – Villarreal, Real
Madrid, Malaga and Manchester City – to the UEFA Champions League knockout
stages, and becomes the first Premier League winner to take charge at West
Ham. The skipper, like so many of his fellow fans, is enthused by his
arrival. "It's an exciting appointment for everyone associated with the
Club, as Manuel Pellegrini has a great record, has managed some top clubs
and is known for playing entertaining football," the No16 observed. "Perhaps
just as importantly, seeing how we are in a results business in the Premier
League, he wins football matches. "To have a manager who has managed Real
Madrid and Manchester City, won the Premier League title and led four
different clubs in the Champions League shows that the Chairmen mean
business. They said they wanted to bring in a top-level manager and that's
what they've done."
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Rice ready for end-of-season Ireland friendlies
WHUFC.com
Declan Rice is hoping to end a memorable season on a high as he prepares for
two high-profile Republic of Ireland friendly internationals The teenager
played more than 30 first-team matches for West Ham United in 2017/18,
retained the Young Hammer of the Year award and was named Man of the Match
on his senior debut for the Boys in Green in Turkey in March. Before he
heads off on a well-earned holiday, Rice has joined up with Martin O'Neill's
squad for a mouth-watering trip to Paris to face France on Monday 28 May and
the visit of the United States to Dublin on Saturday 2 June. "It's a nice
way to finish off what has been an amazing season for me, personally," the
19-year-old centre-half confirmed. "If you'd told me a year ago that I'd
have achieved what I have achieved, I wouldn't have believed you! "I've
worked hard, listened to my coaches and teammates, tried to learn from my
experiences and mistakes, and I'm happy with what I've achieved so far, but
there is still lots more for me to learn and achieve in my career. I'm still
only young. "These two international games will be another step in my
development. I really enjoyed my Ireland debut and it's been good to meet up
with the boys again, as the atmosphere in the squad is really good. "These
games give us a chance to train together, get to know each other, try new
things and get ourselves ready for our next competitive matches."
Ireland missed out on this summer's FIFA World Cup final in Russia, losing
5-1 on aggregate to Denmark in a two-legged Play-Off, and will return to
competitive action in September, when they take on the same opposition, and
Wales, in the new UEFA Nations League.
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STICK OR TWIST: THE FULL BACKS
By Iain Dale 27 May 2018 at 15:01
WTID
Players who play at full back are often underrated. But they can make or
break a team. A good full back who can get forward and bang in the crosses,
but doesn't neglect their defensive duties can be worth a lot of money. At
the moment we're possibly a little unbalanced to the left. It was said that
David Moyes couldn't understand the players' determination to play
everything down the left hand side, to the exclusion of the right. That's
probably because on the left we have two full backs who can bomb down the
left, deploy a little bit of trickery, whereas on the right we have the ever
dependable Pablo Zabaletta, who at 33 is not going to rip up any daisies.
Aaron Cresswell
We bought Aaron Cresswell for a mere £3.5 million from Ipswich in 2014.
Since then he has played 137 games and scored 5 goals. His first season was
perhaps his best, but even when he has patchy form you know it's not going
to be long before he bounces back. Latterly under Moyes he played on the
left hand side of a defensive three, leaving Arthur Masuaku to bomb forward.
He hasn't got the trickery of Masuaku but has pace and a lethal free kick on
his day. Some of his crossing can be sublime. There have been rumours that
he will be one of the players to leave in the summer. This would be utter
madness, unless someone put in a ridiculous offer of £30 million or so. He's
29 in December, though. He's very versatile and every team needs a player
like that. He may not have developed a lot in the last two years – his
absence from the England World Cup squad is a sign of that – but
nevertheless I'd hate to see him go.
Arthur Masuaku
A £5 million signing from Olympiacos in Greece in 2016 Masuaku took his time
to bed in. Some would say he still hasn't. He vied with Cresswell for the
left ack place in a 4-4-2, and did displace him for a few games. However, he
only really came into his own this season when Moyes started playing a 3-5-2
formation. He started to play as a wing back and took to the position well.
He has great pace and can beat anyone. His crosses were devoured by
Arnautovic and the two developed a great understanding until the moment of
madness which led to him getting a six match ban. It then took time to
rediscover his form, but by the end of the season he was again showing us
what he can do. This season will be a crunch one for him. We must keep him.
Even though he's played forty times and yet to register on the scoresheet.
Pablo Zabaleta
Zabaleta is Mr Consistency. Mistakes are rare, flamboyance ever more rare,
but you couldn't find a more dependable right back. He was tested towards
the end of the season when he was expected to play as a wing back, but he
certainly didn't let anyone down. He'll turn 34 in January and assuming he
stays, this must surely be his last season playing at the top level. If our
transfer budget is somewhat limited, I wouldn't waste too much money on a
replacement unless someone amaing becomes free at a reasonable price. At
least Manuel Pellegrini knows what he's getting.
Sam Byram
Am I alone in thinking Sam Byram is being treated very unfairly? Whenever
he's played, he's never let us down. Indeed, I'd say he has often impressed.
The trouble is he has never been given a run of games. He's played a game
here, a game there, but then would get injured. In two and a half seasons
he's only played 27 games. We payed £5 ,illion for Byram. If we're to let
him to to free up funds, we'd need to look at getting £7-9 million I'd have
thought. But if we sell him we'd need a replacement, as I don't see any
obvious replacement in the Under 23s.
Conclusion
It seems that Byram may be the most likely player to be sold. I think a lot
depends on which formation Pellegrini plays. If it's a wing back system,
then Antonio and Zabaleta may have to compete for a place. I don't see
Cresswell's long term future being in a back three so it may be that he is
sacrificed in order to have the funds to buy a top class central defender.
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A secret agreement & seven months of work - How Manuel Pellegrini became
West Ham's new manager
Things seemingly moved quickly from the outside when the 64-year-old was
appointed but really, it was a long-term project to get him to the capital
Football London
By Sam Inkersole West Ham Correspondent
11:23, 27 MAY 2018
It was an appointment nearly seven months in the making. Manuel Pellegrini
let it slip in his first on-camera interview with West Ham, probably
unintentionally, that he had watched a lot of Hammers matches last season
while manager of Hebei China Fortune in the Chinese Super League. There is a
reason for that.
Slaven Bilic was sacked as West Ham manager on November 6 after Karren Brady
arrived at the Rush Green training ground, two days after the 4-1 defeat to
Liverpool at the London Stadium to deliver the news we all knew was coming.
What we didn't know was that very soon after, the wheels were already in
motion to bring former Manchester City manager Pellegrini to east London.
Back in October 2017, Croatian Bilic was clinging to his job in the capital.
The 3-2 win against Spurs in the Carabao Cup bought Bilic some time but it
was not going to be enough. He was eventually dismissed with the Hammers in
the Premier League relegation zone after a dismal start to the season.
Pellegrini engaged in talks with West Ham in the immediate aftermath of
Bilic's sacking to return to the Premier League and to take the reigns in
east London. Numerous telephone and email conversations were exchanged but
Pellegrini didn't meet with West Ham at that time. Before 2017 was out
though, the two parties had met, talks progressed and Pellegrini and the
club had a handshake plus a gentleman's agreement that it would be him that
would eventually take over in east London.
The new manager had already discussed transfer targets, his backroom staff
joining him in the capital and the transfer budget with the club. That is
expected to be fulfilled this summer. Enter David Moyes. The Scotsman was
employed with the sole task of keeping West Ham in the Premier League,
essentially warming the seat until Pellegrini arrived. Moyes was never going
to spend more than half a year at the London Stadium. There was a reason he
was only given a six-month deal. Moyes was always a stop gap between Bilic
and Pellegrini.
The former Sunderland boss held up his end of the bargain and steered West
Ham to a 13th place finish in the Premier League and while he may not have
known it, he wasn't going to be sticking around after May 2018. He was
handed £2.5m for his six months employment in east London. Not bad work if
you can get it.
That also explains why Moyes was somewhat undermined at the end of his
tenure when pictures emerged of Shakhtar Donetsk manager Paulo Fonseca
arriving at Hammers co-owner David Sullivan's Essex mansion to have "talks"
with the top brass. Those talks were never going to amount to anything, as
proved by Fonseca signing an extended contract in Donetsk - it was a
smokescreen.
The same applies to Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez. It was all a
ruse. Stories emerged that the Spaniard was proving hard to lure away from
Tyneside but he was never likely to take over thanks to the agreement with
Pellegrini. Pellegrini had said to West Ham back in 2017 that there was no
chance of him leaving the Far East and his incredibly lucrative contract
when he was first approached to take over at the London Stadium. Give it six
months however then a severance deal could be done. Six months later, that's
how it has turned out.
Pellegrini announced his departure from Hebei China Fortune on May 19 after
their 2-1 victory over Chonqing Lifang in the CSL and as quick as a flash,
the 64-year-old was on a flight to London. Before his flight had landed in
the UK, Pellegrini's £8m-per-year contract was officially agreed to take
over West Ham. The manager and co-chairman had a pleasant time in central
London that evening following touchdown for the Chilean, before returning to
Sullivan's home. That was nothing but a formality, the club photographer had
already arrived to capture the moment and contracts were signed that
evening. Pellegrini was announced as West Ham's new manager at 8am on
Tuesday morning. The new manager has spoken of his excitement and the
project in store for him in east London in his first words as West Ham's
17th manager. In reality, that project began way back in November 2017. West
Ham have got their man. It was a process that started some time ago and was
the long-term plan for the club after a torrid 18 months at the London
Stadium that led to Bilic's sacking. Now, we wait and see what the future
holds.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Declan Rice issues response to David Gold's comments about West Ham ace
representing England
Rice is set to feature for Ireland against France on Monday evening
Football London
By Rob Guest
09:25, 27 MAY 2018
West Ham youngster Declan Rice has stated that he is just concentrating on
playing well for Ireland after David Gold's comments about him playing for
England in the future. Having made his debut for the Hammers at Burnley on
the final day of the 2016/17 season, the 19-year-old cemented his place in
the West Ham team under David Moyes towards the end of the campaign. The
youngster's form saw Martin O'Neill call him up to the Ireland senior side,
thus making his international debut against Turkey in March in the process.
However, with the Hammers appointing Manuel Pellegrini as Moyes' replacement
during the week, Gold told talkSPORT that he hoped the Chilean could turn
Rice into an England international. With the player made well aware of the
co-owner's comments, he issued a response as he prepares for Monday's
friendly against France. Rice, speaking to the Irish Independent, said:
"Yeah, it was all over Twitter. He's just come out and said it on the radio.
That's what he believes. "I'm here today with the Ireland national squad
focusing on the two games to prove myself to Martin [O'Neill] and Roy that I
can play well for Ireland. "My phone got bombarded with messages saying
'have you seen this?' He's done an interview on transfers and it was way
off-topic to come out and say 'Declan Rice for England' when I'm here with
Ireland. "He knows that I play for Ireland so it's one of them where I just
forget about it. "I've come here to enjoy myself."
Rice will come up against some of the world's best players tomorrow evening
with Ireland taking on France as Didier Deschamps' side prepare for the
World Cup.
Amid talk of a loan move at the start of the season to gain some valuable
experience, the defender has thanked Slaven Bilic for giving him a chance in
the first team as a memorable year draws to a close. "There's some massive
names there," added Rice. "I played against [Olivier] Giroud and [Paul]
Pogba. But then you've [Antoine] Griezmann and [Kylian] Mbappe. "These are
the players you come up against if you want to be the best in the world.
"You've got to test yourself against the best to know you are the best. "At
the beginning of the season I was talking about going on loan to a League
One or Championship club and then I had a good pre-season and, all of a
sudden, Slaven Bilic gave me my chance and I was with the first team. "I was
grateful for the opportunity. "I was playing well which obviously granted me
my first-team place here. "Martin thought I was playing well and couldn't
leave me out because I was playing so well. I was with the 21s as well. "I
can't really believe how quick I've progressed."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble is relishing the prospect of playing in an attack-minded,
possession-based West Ham United team under Manuel Pellegrini. The Chilean
has forged a reputation for putting together sides who play on the front
foot, dominate the ball and score plenty of goals. And the captain, who
regularly leads West Ham's own possession stats, cannot wait to start
working with the man who led a record-breaking Manchester City to the
Premier League title in 2014. "As captain, I am looking forward to welcoming
the new manager to the Club when we return for pre-season training," said
the two-time Hammer of the Year, who launched the I'm Forever campaign for
the Club's new 2018/19 Umbro Home and Away kits on Friday. "I'm sure I'll
have a chat with him before then and I'll definitely give him the lowdown on
West Ham United and what the Club means to its supporters, although I am
sure he has already done his own homework and knows plenty about the Club
and its traditions. "He will be looking to the future, too, and I'm sure he
will bring in his own staff and we will be linked to lots of potential new
signings over the next few weeks!"
Pellegrini's City scored a record 151 goals in his first season at the club
and Noble believes his forward-thinking approach will go down well, both in
the dressing room and in the stands. "As players, it's always more enjoyable
when you have the ball than when you are chasing the other team around, so I
was pleased when I heard him say he wants to excite the fans and play
attacking football. "West Ham fans love it when we take it to the
opposition, particularly the big boys, and it sounds like we're going to
give it a right go. "I'm already looking forward to getting back to Rush
Green and starting work under him."
Pellegrini led all four European clubs he has managed – Villarreal, Real
Madrid, Malaga and Manchester City – to the UEFA Champions League knockout
stages, and becomes the first Premier League winner to take charge at West
Ham. The skipper, like so many of his fellow fans, is enthused by his
arrival. "It's an exciting appointment for everyone associated with the
Club, as Manuel Pellegrini has a great record, has managed some top clubs
and is known for playing entertaining football," the No16 observed. "Perhaps
just as importantly, seeing how we are in a results business in the Premier
League, he wins football matches. "To have a manager who has managed Real
Madrid and Manchester City, won the Premier League title and led four
different clubs in the Champions League shows that the Chairmen mean
business. They said they wanted to bring in a top-level manager and that's
what they've done."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rice ready for end-of-season Ireland friendlies
WHUFC.com
Declan Rice is hoping to end a memorable season on a high as he prepares for
two high-profile Republic of Ireland friendly internationals The teenager
played more than 30 first-team matches for West Ham United in 2017/18,
retained the Young Hammer of the Year award and was named Man of the Match
on his senior debut for the Boys in Green in Turkey in March. Before he
heads off on a well-earned holiday, Rice has joined up with Martin O'Neill's
squad for a mouth-watering trip to Paris to face France on Monday 28 May and
the visit of the United States to Dublin on Saturday 2 June. "It's a nice
way to finish off what has been an amazing season for me, personally," the
19-year-old centre-half confirmed. "If you'd told me a year ago that I'd
have achieved what I have achieved, I wouldn't have believed you! "I've
worked hard, listened to my coaches and teammates, tried to learn from my
experiences and mistakes, and I'm happy with what I've achieved so far, but
there is still lots more for me to learn and achieve in my career. I'm still
only young. "These two international games will be another step in my
development. I really enjoyed my Ireland debut and it's been good to meet up
with the boys again, as the atmosphere in the squad is really good. "These
games give us a chance to train together, get to know each other, try new
things and get ourselves ready for our next competitive matches."
Ireland missed out on this summer's FIFA World Cup final in Russia, losing
5-1 on aggregate to Denmark in a two-legged Play-Off, and will return to
competitive action in September, when they take on the same opposition, and
Wales, in the new UEFA Nations League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STICK OR TWIST: THE FULL BACKS
By Iain Dale 27 May 2018 at 15:01
WTID
Players who play at full back are often underrated. But they can make or
break a team. A good full back who can get forward and bang in the crosses,
but doesn't neglect their defensive duties can be worth a lot of money. At
the moment we're possibly a little unbalanced to the left. It was said that
David Moyes couldn't understand the players' determination to play
everything down the left hand side, to the exclusion of the right. That's
probably because on the left we have two full backs who can bomb down the
left, deploy a little bit of trickery, whereas on the right we have the ever
dependable Pablo Zabaletta, who at 33 is not going to rip up any daisies.
Aaron Cresswell
We bought Aaron Cresswell for a mere £3.5 million from Ipswich in 2014.
Since then he has played 137 games and scored 5 goals. His first season was
perhaps his best, but even when he has patchy form you know it's not going
to be long before he bounces back. Latterly under Moyes he played on the
left hand side of a defensive three, leaving Arthur Masuaku to bomb forward.
He hasn't got the trickery of Masuaku but has pace and a lethal free kick on
his day. Some of his crossing can be sublime. There have been rumours that
he will be one of the players to leave in the summer. This would be utter
madness, unless someone put in a ridiculous offer of £30 million or so. He's
29 in December, though. He's very versatile and every team needs a player
like that. He may not have developed a lot in the last two years – his
absence from the England World Cup squad is a sign of that – but
nevertheless I'd hate to see him go.
Arthur Masuaku
A £5 million signing from Olympiacos in Greece in 2016 Masuaku took his time
to bed in. Some would say he still hasn't. He vied with Cresswell for the
left ack place in a 4-4-2, and did displace him for a few games. However, he
only really came into his own this season when Moyes started playing a 3-5-2
formation. He started to play as a wing back and took to the position well.
He has great pace and can beat anyone. His crosses were devoured by
Arnautovic and the two developed a great understanding until the moment of
madness which led to him getting a six match ban. It then took time to
rediscover his form, but by the end of the season he was again showing us
what he can do. This season will be a crunch one for him. We must keep him.
Even though he's played forty times and yet to register on the scoresheet.
Pablo Zabaleta
Zabaleta is Mr Consistency. Mistakes are rare, flamboyance ever more rare,
but you couldn't find a more dependable right back. He was tested towards
the end of the season when he was expected to play as a wing back, but he
certainly didn't let anyone down. He'll turn 34 in January and assuming he
stays, this must surely be his last season playing at the top level. If our
transfer budget is somewhat limited, I wouldn't waste too much money on a
replacement unless someone amaing becomes free at a reasonable price. At
least Manuel Pellegrini knows what he's getting.
Sam Byram
Am I alone in thinking Sam Byram is being treated very unfairly? Whenever
he's played, he's never let us down. Indeed, I'd say he has often impressed.
The trouble is he has never been given a run of games. He's played a game
here, a game there, but then would get injured. In two and a half seasons
he's only played 27 games. We payed £5 ,illion for Byram. If we're to let
him to to free up funds, we'd need to look at getting £7-9 million I'd have
thought. But if we sell him we'd need a replacement, as I don't see any
obvious replacement in the Under 23s.
Conclusion
It seems that Byram may be the most likely player to be sold. I think a lot
depends on which formation Pellegrini plays. If it's a wing back system,
then Antonio and Zabaleta may have to compete for a place. I don't see
Cresswell's long term future being in a back three so it may be that he is
sacrificed in order to have the funds to buy a top class central defender.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A secret agreement & seven months of work - How Manuel Pellegrini became
West Ham's new manager
Things seemingly moved quickly from the outside when the 64-year-old was
appointed but really, it was a long-term project to get him to the capital
Football London
By Sam Inkersole West Ham Correspondent
11:23, 27 MAY 2018
It was an appointment nearly seven months in the making. Manuel Pellegrini
let it slip in his first on-camera interview with West Ham, probably
unintentionally, that he had watched a lot of Hammers matches last season
while manager of Hebei China Fortune in the Chinese Super League. There is a
reason for that.
Slaven Bilic was sacked as West Ham manager on November 6 after Karren Brady
arrived at the Rush Green training ground, two days after the 4-1 defeat to
Liverpool at the London Stadium to deliver the news we all knew was coming.
What we didn't know was that very soon after, the wheels were already in
motion to bring former Manchester City manager Pellegrini to east London.
Back in October 2017, Croatian Bilic was clinging to his job in the capital.
The 3-2 win against Spurs in the Carabao Cup bought Bilic some time but it
was not going to be enough. He was eventually dismissed with the Hammers in
the Premier League relegation zone after a dismal start to the season.
Pellegrini engaged in talks with West Ham in the immediate aftermath of
Bilic's sacking to return to the Premier League and to take the reigns in
east London. Numerous telephone and email conversations were exchanged but
Pellegrini didn't meet with West Ham at that time. Before 2017 was out
though, the two parties had met, talks progressed and Pellegrini and the
club had a handshake plus a gentleman's agreement that it would be him that
would eventually take over in east London.
The new manager had already discussed transfer targets, his backroom staff
joining him in the capital and the transfer budget with the club. That is
expected to be fulfilled this summer. Enter David Moyes. The Scotsman was
employed with the sole task of keeping West Ham in the Premier League,
essentially warming the seat until Pellegrini arrived. Moyes was never going
to spend more than half a year at the London Stadium. There was a reason he
was only given a six-month deal. Moyes was always a stop gap between Bilic
and Pellegrini.
The former Sunderland boss held up his end of the bargain and steered West
Ham to a 13th place finish in the Premier League and while he may not have
known it, he wasn't going to be sticking around after May 2018. He was
handed £2.5m for his six months employment in east London. Not bad work if
you can get it.
That also explains why Moyes was somewhat undermined at the end of his
tenure when pictures emerged of Shakhtar Donetsk manager Paulo Fonseca
arriving at Hammers co-owner David Sullivan's Essex mansion to have "talks"
with the top brass. Those talks were never going to amount to anything, as
proved by Fonseca signing an extended contract in Donetsk - it was a
smokescreen.
The same applies to Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez. It was all a
ruse. Stories emerged that the Spaniard was proving hard to lure away from
Tyneside but he was never likely to take over thanks to the agreement with
Pellegrini. Pellegrini had said to West Ham back in 2017 that there was no
chance of him leaving the Far East and his incredibly lucrative contract
when he was first approached to take over at the London Stadium. Give it six
months however then a severance deal could be done. Six months later, that's
how it has turned out.
Pellegrini announced his departure from Hebei China Fortune on May 19 after
their 2-1 victory over Chonqing Lifang in the CSL and as quick as a flash,
the 64-year-old was on a flight to London. Before his flight had landed in
the UK, Pellegrini's £8m-per-year contract was officially agreed to take
over West Ham. The manager and co-chairman had a pleasant time in central
London that evening following touchdown for the Chilean, before returning to
Sullivan's home. That was nothing but a formality, the club photographer had
already arrived to capture the moment and contracts were signed that
evening. Pellegrini was announced as West Ham's new manager at 8am on
Tuesday morning. The new manager has spoken of his excitement and the
project in store for him in east London in his first words as West Ham's
17th manager. In reality, that project began way back in November 2017. West
Ham have got their man. It was a process that started some time ago and was
the long-term plan for the club after a torrid 18 months at the London
Stadium that led to Bilic's sacking. Now, we wait and see what the future
holds.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Declan Rice issues response to David Gold's comments about West Ham ace
representing England
Rice is set to feature for Ireland against France on Monday evening
Football London
By Rob Guest
09:25, 27 MAY 2018
West Ham youngster Declan Rice has stated that he is just concentrating on
playing well for Ireland after David Gold's comments about him playing for
England in the future. Having made his debut for the Hammers at Burnley on
the final day of the 2016/17 season, the 19-year-old cemented his place in
the West Ham team under David Moyes towards the end of the campaign. The
youngster's form saw Martin O'Neill call him up to the Ireland senior side,
thus making his international debut against Turkey in March in the process.
However, with the Hammers appointing Manuel Pellegrini as Moyes' replacement
during the week, Gold told talkSPORT that he hoped the Chilean could turn
Rice into an England international. With the player made well aware of the
co-owner's comments, he issued a response as he prepares for Monday's
friendly against France. Rice, speaking to the Irish Independent, said:
"Yeah, it was all over Twitter. He's just come out and said it on the radio.
That's what he believes. "I'm here today with the Ireland national squad
focusing on the two games to prove myself to Martin [O'Neill] and Roy that I
can play well for Ireland. "My phone got bombarded with messages saying
'have you seen this?' He's done an interview on transfers and it was way
off-topic to come out and say 'Declan Rice for England' when I'm here with
Ireland. "He knows that I play for Ireland so it's one of them where I just
forget about it. "I've come here to enjoy myself."
Rice will come up against some of the world's best players tomorrow evening
with Ireland taking on France as Didier Deschamps' side prepare for the
World Cup.
Amid talk of a loan move at the start of the season to gain some valuable
experience, the defender has thanked Slaven Bilic for giving him a chance in
the first team as a memorable year draws to a close. "There's some massive
names there," added Rice. "I played against [Olivier] Giroud and [Paul]
Pogba. But then you've [Antoine] Griezmann and [Kylian] Mbappe. "These are
the players you come up against if you want to be the best in the world.
"You've got to test yourself against the best to know you are the best. "At
the beginning of the season I was talking about going on loan to a League
One or Championship club and then I had a good pre-season and, all of a
sudden, Slaven Bilic gave me my chance and I was with the first team. "I was
grateful for the opportunity. "I was playing well which obviously granted me
my first-team place here. "Martin thought I was playing well and couldn't
leave me out because I was playing so well. I was with the 21s as well. "I
can't really believe how quick I've progressed."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, May 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th May 2018
Carlton Cole: It's exciting times at West Ham United
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole was in typically enthusiastic mood at London Stadium on Friday
morning, as he unveiled the new West Ham United 2018/19 Home and Away kits.
Cole predicted exciting times ahead under new boss Manuel Pellegrini. The
former Hammers striker, still a huge favourite among the Claret and Blue
faithful, told Sky Sports News that the experienced Chilean possesses all
the right credentials to take the Club forward. "It's exciting times," he
said. "We've got a world-class manager, one of the best in the Premier
League now in my opinion. We know what his credentials are and what he can
bring to the table, he's obviously got the full support of the Board and the
backing to help him take the Club to the next level. "He brings experience
at different levels. He has coached teams like Malaga, who may be considered
lesser teams in their league but have over-achieved to enjoy great success.
He is also going to bring that style of play that West Ham fans want to see.
"He is going to be attracting a few top players that he wants to fit into
the team now. He may let a few go and let a few in. His money is going to be
spent wisely. "It's hard to [pick specific positions]. I think he needs to
galvanise the team he has already got and then add a few players who can
bring different angles to the team, and help approach the style of play he
wants. "You have to look at his history – he loves to play the ball on the
floor. He will get some ball players in, and players who will make the team
stronger. "We've always had optimism, but last year we didn't produce in the
way we wanted to. This year we now have a different angle, we're going to
get behind the new manager from the start, and I'm so glad that he has been
appointed so early, so that we can start restructuring in the right way for
next season."
Cole has been involved in the Club's #ImForever campaign to support the
launch of the new Home and Away kits, and was suitably impressed by the
garment he was asked to model. "I'm loving the new kit," he said. "It's
really light and stylish, a little more Claret with less Blue this time, but
I think it's giving a nice feel to a different era for the Club."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Javier Hernandez delaying decision on West Ham future until after World Cup
Last Updated: 26/05/18 2:10pm
SSN
West Ham striker Javier Hernandez says he will not commit his future to West
Ham until after the World Cup this summer. Hernandez, 29, has two years left
to run on the contract he signed with the Hammers following his £16m move
from Bayer Leverkusen last summer. But the Mexico striker's future has been
the subject to speculation after he lost his place in West Ham's first team
under previous manager David Moyes towards the end of last season, even
admitting he had asked to leave the club in January. The Hammers appointed
Manuel Pellegrini as new manager this week, but Hernandez was unwilling to
discuss his future with the World Cup under three weeks away. "Of course I
am a West Ham player still, but we'll see," Hernandez said at a press
conference in Los Angeles ahead of Mexico's friendly against Wales on
Tuesday morning. "Right now what can I tell you? I'm glad there's a new
manager? I'm sad there's a new manager? "It's not the moment to speak about
this. My mind is 100 per cent on the World Cup." Asked if Pellegrini - who
led Manchester City to a Premier League and Capital One Cup double in 2014 -
was a good appointment by West Ham, Hernandez replied: "I don't know."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STICK OR TWIST: THE CENTRAL DEFENDERS
By Iain Dale 26 May 2018 at 21:10 WTID
So, we've done the goalkeepers, now let's look at our crop of central
defenders and see who we should keep or who we should sell. The key thing
here is that we need to improve on what we have.
James Collins
Much as I'd have loved to retain James Collins's services on a 'pay as you
play' basis, we have to face the fact that he's 35 in August. His departure
has certainly not been handled very well. He's also the sort of player you
might want to retain in a coaching capacity but that was always going to be
difficult with a new manager coming in.
Declan Rice
This boy is the real deal and our defence should certainly be formed around
him next season. I don't understand the thinking that he might be played in
midfield. He has certainly played well there on the rare occasion I've seen
him play there but his future is surely as a central defender. His timing is
superb and yes, he's made the odd mistake, but so does anyone who is still
learning their trade. He seemed to combine well with Ogbonna towards the end
of the season. I hope Pellegrini is as impressed y him as the rest of us.
Angelo Ogbonna
On his day Ogbonna is as good a defender as we have. An big ox of a man,
he's surprisingly mobile. But it wouldn't surprise me if he felt it was time
to move back to Italy so he can impress the new Italy manager Roberto
Mancini. He'd certainly command a fee of in excess of £20 million. I hope we
keep him, though.
Winston Reid
His constant injuries restricted his appearances last season and given his
age I am not sure that will improve. He's on a long contract and although on
his day he is a superb defender, can he be relied on to play 30 games? In
his 8 seasons with us he's only managed 30 games three times. Last season it
was 17. Given his record last season if we sold him I doubt we'd get more
than £10 million, especially as he's 30 in July.
Reece Oxford
It's surely time to tell Reece Oxford that he's really wanted at West Ham.
It's three years since he made that stupendous debut against Arsenal, but
he's only made 7 more appearances in the Premier League. His two loan spells
at Borussia Moenchengladbach has supposedly impressed the Germans, but he's
only made 7 starts there. Rumour is he wishes to join them permanently and a
fee of £8 million. I think that would be a crying shame.
Reece Burke
Burke and Oxford have had similar experiences. Neither has been given a
proper chance, yet whenever Burke has played – either at right back or in
central defence – he has impressed. Wherever he has gone out on loan he's
done well, although injury has restricted his appearances. Personally, I'd
keep him for another year and not loan him out, and let him take his chance
if it arrives.
Conclusion
With James Collins gone and Winston Reid's injury record we are light in
central defence. I'd like us to buy one top class central defender who would
be first choice alongside Declan Rice, assuming we play a 4-4-2. If we play
4-3-3 there's an argument we need two. But we must not buy central defenders
from relegated sides. It was rumoured we were in for the West Brom duo Jonny
Evans and Craig Dawson. And then there's the chap from Swansea, Alfie
Mawson. No. We ought to be setting our sights at players with a proven
record.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STICK OR TWIST: THE GOALKEEPERS
By Iain Dale 26 May 2018 at 08:58
WTID
Over the weekend I'll post a series of articles looking at the different
positions and examine whether we should keep or sell our players who play in
that position. Let's start of with the goalkeepers…
Joe Hart
Joe was with us on a season long loan. It didn't go well and it resulted in
him losing his place in the England squad. At times he looked capable and
made some great saves, but he was error prone and you could tell the defence
didn't have confidence in him. Hart was dropped under Pellegrini at
Manchester City so it is highly unlikely he would want to keep England's
former number one.
Adrian
A mixed season for Adrian, which ended well for the crowd favourite. He was
very unhappy to lose his place at the beginning of the season, but once he
played against Manchester City in December he retained the position.
Although Hart won it back, Adrian came back into the side after a
particularly hapless performance by Hart and stayed in the team for the last
few matches of the season. His shot stopping ability isn't in doubt, but he
usually has one rush of blood to the head in each game, and I do wonder
whether Pellegrini will take to him. If we could get £12-15 million for him,
I suspect he might be sold. He won't settle to be number two.
Nathan Trott
He's been on the bench a few times, but we haven't yet had the chance to see
Nathan in action. I'm told everyone really rates him, but is he ready to
take over as our permanent number two?
VERDICT
There are rumours in the papers that Pellegrini wants to re-sign the
goalkeeper who replaced Joe Hart at Manchester City, Willy Caballero from
Chelsea. He also played for him at Malaga. He could surely only be a number
two given the fact that since 2014 he's only played 20 Premier League
matches. I'd love us to sign Jack Butland from Stoke, but they are
apparently asking £40 million for him. Tom Heaton at Burnley would be
another option as I can't imagine him wanting to play second fiddle to the
magnificent Nick Pope next season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM CHASING DEAL FOR JOE ALLEN
ALEX MURRAY @Alex_Murray_
ReadWestHam
West Ham are interested in a deal for Joe Allen, with Stoke looking likely
to sell the midfielder after being relegated from the Premier League. The
Welshman, who was pivotal in Wales' Euro 2016 campaign. Was relegated from
the top flight after Paul Lambert was unable to keep the Potters in the top
flight. The Mirror report that Stoke are likely to begin a clearout after
losing their Premier League status, and West Ham could be one of the teams
picking up one of their stars. New Stoke boss Gary Rowett has been tasked
with a clearout by the clubs owners, after many high profile players failed
to perform for the Potters. Allen is one of those set to depart, along with
goalkeepers Jack Butland, who has been linked with a move back to the top
flight. West Ham could be a new home for Allen, who joined Stoke from
Liverpool in 2016.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM HAVE HAD LUCKY ESCAPE WITH MONEYSPINNERFeatured Image
Date: 26th May 2018 at 8:27pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
ForeverWesTHam
West Ham might not feel like they've had a lucky escape over their potential
pursuit of Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney but when they look back the club
will appreciate missing out on him. It was previously reported by the
Evening Standard, ahead of Fulham's play-off final against Aston Villa, that
the Hammers were very keen on signing the 27-year-old attacking midfielder.
The newspaper claimed that the outcome of Saturday's game could play a
factor, which seems extremely likely, and as Cairney's side won the play-off
final it seems a move for him is off the cards. While some may be
disappointed to hear that, considering the plaudits he receives and the fact
he scored the only goal on Saturday, the Hammers are lucky to miss out.
Cairney may have spectacularly shone in some of his 37 appearances for the
Cottagers this season, but a lot of his displays were disappointing due to
knee issues. These knee problems kept him out of several games but also
affected his performances in a lot of the games he was passed fit for. These
sort of injury issues always have a tendency to resurface and if his knees
are starting to cause him problems at the age of 27-years-old, there is a
genuine risk to investing in his services.
Especially when it's a big money move, £20million was thought to be his
price tag if Fulham failed to get up, as stated by the Daily Mirror, and
that's no doubt the lowest price they would take for him now after
Saturday's outcome. Therefore West Ham have been handed a lucky escape by
having an opportunity not to welcome Cairney to the London Stadium as they
were reportedly set to make a blunder by considering splashing the cash on
him.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SNODGRASS PUNCHED HIS TICKET V FULHAMFeatured Image
Date: 26th May 2018 at 6:57pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
ForeverWestHam
While West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini wants to be firm but fair by giving
everyone an opportunity to impress him in pre-season, he must not waste his
time on Robert Snodgrass. The winger, who apparently is on a £40,000-a-week
deal at the London Stadium as per Spotrac, spent his latest campaign on loan
at Aston Villa and featured for them in the play-off final against Fulham on
Saturday. However while not wearing a Hammers kit at the time, Snodgrass'
performance should have told Pellegrini everything he needed to know about
the winger. The 30-year-old is clearly not good enough to feature at the
London Stadium or in the Premier League next season as he woefully let down
his temporary side on Saturday.
Nothing went right for Snodgrass during the game and he lumbered his way
across the pitch unable to make a positive impact on the match in any way.
It was reported by Claret & Hugh , who specialise in Hammers news, that
Pellegrini would watch the play-off final to see Snodgrass in action as he
was due back at the London Stadium when his loan deal expires. Upon viewing
his display, if the manager's first action wasn't to place him on the
transfer list then it would be a bizarre mistake to make. While seeing a
player firsthand may give a manager a better impression, that won't be the
case with Snodgrass. The winger has had his moments in his latest campaign
with the Villans, during his 42 appearances, but hasn't looked head and
shoulders above the other players in the Championship. The Hammers need to
add top quality players capable of performing in the Premier League this
summer in order to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle next season,
and Snodgrass' return to the squad will see them in a battle for their
top-flight status if anything. It's not like the £40,000-a-week winger
didn't have a chance at the London Stadium, even if it was a small one, and
he never showed a reason for him to be at the Hammers previously in the 15
times he pulled on the jersey. Therefore after a woeful final outing for the
Villans, Snodgrass has punched his own ticket out of the Hammers and will
not kick another ball while wearing a Hammers shirt if Pellegrini has any
sense.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eyeing move for Barcelona centre back Marlon Santos after
impressing for Nice on loan last season
Barcelona's Marlon Santos had impressed on loan at Nice last campaign
The 22-year-old West Ham target has also drawn enquiries from Leicester
Santos impressed last season for Nice, featuring 27 times in all
competitions
By Simon Jones for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 16:58, 26 May 2018 | UPDATED: 17:07, 26 May 2018
West Ham have expressed interest in signing Marlon Santos from Barcelona.
The 22-year-old Brazilian had impressed on loan at Nice last season and has
drawn enquiries from Leicester City. The centre back featured 27 times in
all competitions for the French side last campaign, helping them to an
eighth-placed finish in Ligue 1. With a lack of opportunities at Barcelona
however, Santos may seek an exit from the Nou Camp to further his career.
And after impressing during his loan spell in France, the Hammers, along
with Leicester, are now looking to acquire the services of Santos. After
joining as West Ham boss on Tuesday, Manuel Pellegrini is eager to make an
immediate impact and is looking to bolster his defensive options following a
disappointing season for the club. West Ham, who finished 13th in the
Premier League, conceded a massive 68 goals last season, the joint-most with
Stoke in the top flight.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole was in typically enthusiastic mood at London Stadium on Friday
morning, as he unveiled the new West Ham United 2018/19 Home and Away kits.
Cole predicted exciting times ahead under new boss Manuel Pellegrini. The
former Hammers striker, still a huge favourite among the Claret and Blue
faithful, told Sky Sports News that the experienced Chilean possesses all
the right credentials to take the Club forward. "It's exciting times," he
said. "We've got a world-class manager, one of the best in the Premier
League now in my opinion. We know what his credentials are and what he can
bring to the table, he's obviously got the full support of the Board and the
backing to help him take the Club to the next level. "He brings experience
at different levels. He has coached teams like Malaga, who may be considered
lesser teams in their league but have over-achieved to enjoy great success.
He is also going to bring that style of play that West Ham fans want to see.
"He is going to be attracting a few top players that he wants to fit into
the team now. He may let a few go and let a few in. His money is going to be
spent wisely. "It's hard to [pick specific positions]. I think he needs to
galvanise the team he has already got and then add a few players who can
bring different angles to the team, and help approach the style of play he
wants. "You have to look at his history – he loves to play the ball on the
floor. He will get some ball players in, and players who will make the team
stronger. "We've always had optimism, but last year we didn't produce in the
way we wanted to. This year we now have a different angle, we're going to
get behind the new manager from the start, and I'm so glad that he has been
appointed so early, so that we can start restructuring in the right way for
next season."
Cole has been involved in the Club's #ImForever campaign to support the
launch of the new Home and Away kits, and was suitably impressed by the
garment he was asked to model. "I'm loving the new kit," he said. "It's
really light and stylish, a little more Claret with less Blue this time, but
I think it's giving a nice feel to a different era for the Club."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Javier Hernandez delaying decision on West Ham future until after World Cup
Last Updated: 26/05/18 2:10pm
SSN
West Ham striker Javier Hernandez says he will not commit his future to West
Ham until after the World Cup this summer. Hernandez, 29, has two years left
to run on the contract he signed with the Hammers following his £16m move
from Bayer Leverkusen last summer. But the Mexico striker's future has been
the subject to speculation after he lost his place in West Ham's first team
under previous manager David Moyes towards the end of last season, even
admitting he had asked to leave the club in January. The Hammers appointed
Manuel Pellegrini as new manager this week, but Hernandez was unwilling to
discuss his future with the World Cup under three weeks away. "Of course I
am a West Ham player still, but we'll see," Hernandez said at a press
conference in Los Angeles ahead of Mexico's friendly against Wales on
Tuesday morning. "Right now what can I tell you? I'm glad there's a new
manager? I'm sad there's a new manager? "It's not the moment to speak about
this. My mind is 100 per cent on the World Cup." Asked if Pellegrini - who
led Manchester City to a Premier League and Capital One Cup double in 2014 -
was a good appointment by West Ham, Hernandez replied: "I don't know."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STICK OR TWIST: THE CENTRAL DEFENDERS
By Iain Dale 26 May 2018 at 21:10 WTID
So, we've done the goalkeepers, now let's look at our crop of central
defenders and see who we should keep or who we should sell. The key thing
here is that we need to improve on what we have.
James Collins
Much as I'd have loved to retain James Collins's services on a 'pay as you
play' basis, we have to face the fact that he's 35 in August. His departure
has certainly not been handled very well. He's also the sort of player you
might want to retain in a coaching capacity but that was always going to be
difficult with a new manager coming in.
Declan Rice
This boy is the real deal and our defence should certainly be formed around
him next season. I don't understand the thinking that he might be played in
midfield. He has certainly played well there on the rare occasion I've seen
him play there but his future is surely as a central defender. His timing is
superb and yes, he's made the odd mistake, but so does anyone who is still
learning their trade. He seemed to combine well with Ogbonna towards the end
of the season. I hope Pellegrini is as impressed y him as the rest of us.
Angelo Ogbonna
On his day Ogbonna is as good a defender as we have. An big ox of a man,
he's surprisingly mobile. But it wouldn't surprise me if he felt it was time
to move back to Italy so he can impress the new Italy manager Roberto
Mancini. He'd certainly command a fee of in excess of £20 million. I hope we
keep him, though.
Winston Reid
His constant injuries restricted his appearances last season and given his
age I am not sure that will improve. He's on a long contract and although on
his day he is a superb defender, can he be relied on to play 30 games? In
his 8 seasons with us he's only managed 30 games three times. Last season it
was 17. Given his record last season if we sold him I doubt we'd get more
than £10 million, especially as he's 30 in July.
Reece Oxford
It's surely time to tell Reece Oxford that he's really wanted at West Ham.
It's three years since he made that stupendous debut against Arsenal, but
he's only made 7 more appearances in the Premier League. His two loan spells
at Borussia Moenchengladbach has supposedly impressed the Germans, but he's
only made 7 starts there. Rumour is he wishes to join them permanently and a
fee of £8 million. I think that would be a crying shame.
Reece Burke
Burke and Oxford have had similar experiences. Neither has been given a
proper chance, yet whenever Burke has played – either at right back or in
central defence – he has impressed. Wherever he has gone out on loan he's
done well, although injury has restricted his appearances. Personally, I'd
keep him for another year and not loan him out, and let him take his chance
if it arrives.
Conclusion
With James Collins gone and Winston Reid's injury record we are light in
central defence. I'd like us to buy one top class central defender who would
be first choice alongside Declan Rice, assuming we play a 4-4-2. If we play
4-3-3 there's an argument we need two. But we must not buy central defenders
from relegated sides. It was rumoured we were in for the West Brom duo Jonny
Evans and Craig Dawson. And then there's the chap from Swansea, Alfie
Mawson. No. We ought to be setting our sights at players with a proven
record.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
STICK OR TWIST: THE GOALKEEPERS
By Iain Dale 26 May 2018 at 08:58
WTID
Over the weekend I'll post a series of articles looking at the different
positions and examine whether we should keep or sell our players who play in
that position. Let's start of with the goalkeepers…
Joe Hart
Joe was with us on a season long loan. It didn't go well and it resulted in
him losing his place in the England squad. At times he looked capable and
made some great saves, but he was error prone and you could tell the defence
didn't have confidence in him. Hart was dropped under Pellegrini at
Manchester City so it is highly unlikely he would want to keep England's
former number one.
Adrian
A mixed season for Adrian, which ended well for the crowd favourite. He was
very unhappy to lose his place at the beginning of the season, but once he
played against Manchester City in December he retained the position.
Although Hart won it back, Adrian came back into the side after a
particularly hapless performance by Hart and stayed in the team for the last
few matches of the season. His shot stopping ability isn't in doubt, but he
usually has one rush of blood to the head in each game, and I do wonder
whether Pellegrini will take to him. If we could get £12-15 million for him,
I suspect he might be sold. He won't settle to be number two.
Nathan Trott
He's been on the bench a few times, but we haven't yet had the chance to see
Nathan in action. I'm told everyone really rates him, but is he ready to
take over as our permanent number two?
VERDICT
There are rumours in the papers that Pellegrini wants to re-sign the
goalkeeper who replaced Joe Hart at Manchester City, Willy Caballero from
Chelsea. He also played for him at Malaga. He could surely only be a number
two given the fact that since 2014 he's only played 20 Premier League
matches. I'd love us to sign Jack Butland from Stoke, but they are
apparently asking £40 million for him. Tom Heaton at Burnley would be
another option as I can't imagine him wanting to play second fiddle to the
magnificent Nick Pope next season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM CHASING DEAL FOR JOE ALLEN
ALEX MURRAY @Alex_Murray_
ReadWestHam
West Ham are interested in a deal for Joe Allen, with Stoke looking likely
to sell the midfielder after being relegated from the Premier League. The
Welshman, who was pivotal in Wales' Euro 2016 campaign. Was relegated from
the top flight after Paul Lambert was unable to keep the Potters in the top
flight. The Mirror report that Stoke are likely to begin a clearout after
losing their Premier League status, and West Ham could be one of the teams
picking up one of their stars. New Stoke boss Gary Rowett has been tasked
with a clearout by the clubs owners, after many high profile players failed
to perform for the Potters. Allen is one of those set to depart, along with
goalkeepers Jack Butland, who has been linked with a move back to the top
flight. West Ham could be a new home for Allen, who joined Stoke from
Liverpool in 2016.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM HAVE HAD LUCKY ESCAPE WITH MONEYSPINNERFeatured Image
Date: 26th May 2018 at 8:27pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
ForeverWesTHam
West Ham might not feel like they've had a lucky escape over their potential
pursuit of Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney but when they look back the club
will appreciate missing out on him. It was previously reported by the
Evening Standard, ahead of Fulham's play-off final against Aston Villa, that
the Hammers were very keen on signing the 27-year-old attacking midfielder.
The newspaper claimed that the outcome of Saturday's game could play a
factor, which seems extremely likely, and as Cairney's side won the play-off
final it seems a move for him is off the cards. While some may be
disappointed to hear that, considering the plaudits he receives and the fact
he scored the only goal on Saturday, the Hammers are lucky to miss out.
Cairney may have spectacularly shone in some of his 37 appearances for the
Cottagers this season, but a lot of his displays were disappointing due to
knee issues. These knee problems kept him out of several games but also
affected his performances in a lot of the games he was passed fit for. These
sort of injury issues always have a tendency to resurface and if his knees
are starting to cause him problems at the age of 27-years-old, there is a
genuine risk to investing in his services.
Especially when it's a big money move, £20million was thought to be his
price tag if Fulham failed to get up, as stated by the Daily Mirror, and
that's no doubt the lowest price they would take for him now after
Saturday's outcome. Therefore West Ham have been handed a lucky escape by
having an opportunity not to welcome Cairney to the London Stadium as they
were reportedly set to make a blunder by considering splashing the cash on
him.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SNODGRASS PUNCHED HIS TICKET V FULHAMFeatured Image
Date: 26th May 2018 at 6:57pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
ForeverWestHam
While West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini wants to be firm but fair by giving
everyone an opportunity to impress him in pre-season, he must not waste his
time on Robert Snodgrass. The winger, who apparently is on a £40,000-a-week
deal at the London Stadium as per Spotrac, spent his latest campaign on loan
at Aston Villa and featured for them in the play-off final against Fulham on
Saturday. However while not wearing a Hammers kit at the time, Snodgrass'
performance should have told Pellegrini everything he needed to know about
the winger. The 30-year-old is clearly not good enough to feature at the
London Stadium or in the Premier League next season as he woefully let down
his temporary side on Saturday.
Nothing went right for Snodgrass during the game and he lumbered his way
across the pitch unable to make a positive impact on the match in any way.
It was reported by Claret & Hugh , who specialise in Hammers news, that
Pellegrini would watch the play-off final to see Snodgrass in action as he
was due back at the London Stadium when his loan deal expires. Upon viewing
his display, if the manager's first action wasn't to place him on the
transfer list then it would be a bizarre mistake to make. While seeing a
player firsthand may give a manager a better impression, that won't be the
case with Snodgrass. The winger has had his moments in his latest campaign
with the Villans, during his 42 appearances, but hasn't looked head and
shoulders above the other players in the Championship. The Hammers need to
add top quality players capable of performing in the Premier League this
summer in order to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle next season,
and Snodgrass' return to the squad will see them in a battle for their
top-flight status if anything. It's not like the £40,000-a-week winger
didn't have a chance at the London Stadium, even if it was a small one, and
he never showed a reason for him to be at the Hammers previously in the 15
times he pulled on the jersey. Therefore after a woeful final outing for the
Villans, Snodgrass has punched his own ticket out of the Hammers and will
not kick another ball while wearing a Hammers shirt if Pellegrini has any
sense.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eyeing move for Barcelona centre back Marlon Santos after
impressing for Nice on loan last season
Barcelona's Marlon Santos had impressed on loan at Nice last campaign
The 22-year-old West Ham target has also drawn enquiries from Leicester
Santos impressed last season for Nice, featuring 27 times in all
competitions
By Simon Jones for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 16:58, 26 May 2018 | UPDATED: 17:07, 26 May 2018
West Ham have expressed interest in signing Marlon Santos from Barcelona.
The 22-year-old Brazilian had impressed on loan at Nice last season and has
drawn enquiries from Leicester City. The centre back featured 27 times in
all competitions for the French side last campaign, helping them to an
eighth-placed finish in Ligue 1. With a lack of opportunities at Barcelona
however, Santos may seek an exit from the Nou Camp to further his career.
And after impressing during his loan spell in France, the Hammers, along
with Leicester, are now looking to acquire the services of Santos. After
joining as West Ham boss on Tuesday, Manuel Pellegrini is eager to make an
immediate impact and is looking to bolster his defensive options following a
disappointing season for the club. West Ham, who finished 13th in the
Premier League, conceded a massive 68 goals last season, the joint-most with
Stoke in the top flight.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th May 2018
Pellegrini: West Ham fans are always special fans
WHUFC.com
Manuel Pellegrini is relishing the prospect of managing West Ham United at
London Stadium next season. The Chilean, who got his hands on the new
2018/18 Umbro Home kit after agreeing a three-year deal to take charge of
the Hammers this week, visited the Club's iconic home for the first time on
Tuesday evening.
And, after enjoying a Rolling Stones concert, Pellegrini expects the arena
to be rocking again to the sound of the Claret and Blue Army when the
2018/19 Premier League season kicks-off in August. "I managed a lot of times
against West Ham and the fans were always special fans," said Pellegrini,
who managed eight times against the Hammers during his three seasons at
Manchester City between 2013 and 2016.
Pellegrini visited the Boleyn Ground four times during his time at City,
drawing once and losing once – the latter as Premier League champions – so
he is fully aware of the power West Ham supporters have to inspire their
team on home turf.
"In the old stadium it was 35 or 36,000 people, but now in the new stadium
we have at least 55 or 57,000 people, so I hope the supporters will be a
very important part of the success we can have next season," the 64-year-old
observed. "I know very well that the West Ham fans are always behind their
team. Maybe they were not so happy last season, but I am sure next season we
are going to, all of us together, celebrate an important thing for this
team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sir Trevor Brooking: Pellegrini can deliver stability and progression
WHUFC.com
Sir Trevor Brooking believes that the arrival of Manuel Pellegrini can
signal a fresh start and a bright future for West Ham United. The legendary
Hammers midfielder, who is part of the I'm Forever campaign for the Club's
new 2018/19 Umbro Home and Away kits, is confident that the Chilean's
experience – both in the Premier League and across European football – will
be of great benefit and is backing the former Manchester City boss to lead
his new team forward in the right direction. Speaking exclusively to
whufc.com, Sir Trevor said: "There has been a very positive reaction to
Manuel coming in. I think it's an opportunity to put a tough few months
behind us and look forward with optimism. "The first two years at London
Stadium have brought a number of difficult challenges, which is the case for
any club making a move to a new stadium, and the third year should really be
the point where we can put that behind us and look forward. "It is now a
clean break and a fresh start with the new manager, and we are looking
forward to seeing the impact he can make. His previous experience of the
Premier League is also a big positive. He's not coming into a league – or
the challenges within it – that he doesn't know. "He has good knowledge, he
did well in Spain, and he will have good awareness and contacts when it
comes to identifying potential new players."
With the summer transfer window always bringing great excitement and
anticipation throughout the Premier League, Sir Trevor admits that much
focus will be placed on Pellegrini's recruitment of new players over the
next couple of months, but urges patience and time when it comes to judging
the new manager's ability to bring success to London Stadium.
"Four or five new signings have been mentioned, and I think that is what
most fans will be hoping for," he says. "It's not always easy to conjure up
that number, though, and we've got to be sensible, patient, and give the
manager the backing and the time to make the additions he needs. "They have
got to be the right signings longer term. Manuel has got a three-year
contract, and we must give him the opportunity to make progression over that
period of time. "He doesn't need the pressure of being expected to
transform things overnight. It is extremely tough to break into the top six.
Hopefully next season we can establish ourselves in that second tier just
outside the top six, get the supporters enjoying the football that they are
watching, and make steps that take us forward. "I hope that Manuel is able
to be judged on what he does over the course of the three years. Stability
and progression are what is needed and we are all confident he can deliver
that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Pellegrini can attract top players to West Ham, says Carlton Cole
By Husmukh Kerai
Last Updated: 25/05/18 2:40pm
SSN
Former West Ham striker Carlton Cole expects new manager Manuel Pellegrini
to attract top players to the club during the summer transfer window. West
Ham confirmed the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager on a
three-year deal on Wednesday. The 64-year-old, who has previously managed
Real Madrid and Manchester City, left his role with Hebei China Fortune over
the weekend to join the Hammers. Sky Sports News understands he will earn
around £7m a year, although he will be taking a significant pay cut having
earned around £16m a year in China. Pellegrini has already revealed his
wishlist of up to five players as he promised an attacking revolution at
West Ham during his first press conference. Cole believes the Chilean can
attract top talent to the London Stadium. "Defnitely he is going to be
attracting a few top players that he wants to fit into the team now. He may
let a few go and let a few in. His money is going to be spent wisely," he
told Sky Sports News. "It's hard to [pick specific positions]. I think he
needs to galvanise the team he has already got and then add a few players
who can bring different angles to the team. Help approach the style of play
he wants. You have to look at his history - he likes to play the ball on the
floor. He's gonna get some ball players in, maybe a defender, midfielder and
striker."
Cole also says it is imperative that any players bought into the club
complement last season's 'Hammer of the Year', Marko Arnautovic. He added:
"He's our key player at the moment. If we can get a few players to play off
him and bring the best out of him even more, he'll turn out to be one of our
best players again next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Steven Gerrard 'targets' James Collins to solidify Rangers backline
West Ham legend left the Hammers earlier in the week and Gerrard is
reportedly keen to bring him to Ibrox.
By Daily Record Sport Online
22:56, 25 MAY 2018UPDATED23:14, 25 MAY 2018
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard is reportedly targeting a move for defender
James Collins. The 34-year-old stopper was released by West Ham and fits the
bills as the Ibrox manager looks to solidify a defence that shipped 50 goals
in the Premiership last season.
A move for Martin Skrtel is dead in the water due to the wage demands and
the fee it would cost to take Gerrard's former Liverpool team-mate to Ibrox.
Wales international Collins was freed by the Hammers earlier this week and
Gerrard would now like to bring him north of the border. The veteran spent
six season with the London side and made 214 appearances for West Ham where
he was adored by supporters. Brighton defender Connor Goldson is still high
on Rangers' summer transfer wishlist and Collins has now emerged as a
target, according to the Scottish Sun . It's been a busy summer already for
Gerrard in the transfer market after sealing deals for Allan McGregor, Scott
Arfield and Jamie Murphy. It's understood he also remains keen on Liverpool
winger Harry Wilson, who impressed during his loan with Hull City last
season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
PELLEGRINI ALREADY TAKING ACTION REGARDING THE ACADEMY IS EXCITINGFeatured
Image
Date: 25th May 2018 at 12:29pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
readWestHam
West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini is reportedly set to make changes to the
way the club handles its Under-23s team and his plan could be a game changer
for years to come. The Hammers have a wonderful academy brimming with
exciting prospects but only a handful of talents in recent years have got
anywhere close to the first-team, with even fewer being able to establish
themselves at the club. It's very important that there is a clear path from
the club's youth system all the way through to its first-team, as not only
does that see the best youngsters arrive at the club, it ensures the Hammers
keep all their hidden gems with them.
Claret & Hugh, a popular Hammers news site with reliable information,
reported on Friday that Pellegrini had plans for the U-23s team to train at
Rush Green in order for them to have much closer contact with the
first-team. The news outlet also revealed that this change would allow the
high-profile manager to keep a closer eye on flourishing talents, so he was
aware of their development.
It is believed that Pellegrini is currently reviewing dossiers on every
Hammers starlet that have been handed to him by academy manager Terry
Westley, and that he has already visited Chadwell Heath, which is where the
youngsters train. While the Hammers boss may have only been in charge for a
matter of days, with loads of promising reports emerging, this is clearly
the most exciting plan to emerge out of the London Stadium yet. If done
right, which it sounds like it is going to be, the Hammers will have a
constant flow of talent filtering through to their first-team, without
spending a penny on transfers. This would be a game changer for the club as
it would guarantee a situation where the first-team manager was never
depleted of options again, for example see how David Moyes struggled in the
tail end of last season when it came to finding midfielders. Therefore while
it may not directly effect the first-team yet, Pellegrini's reported plan
has the future in mind and will have a major game changing effect on the
club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM IN POLE POSITION TO SIGN BARCELONA REJECT
JACK DAVIS @JackkDavis88
ForeverWestHam
West Ham are in pole position to sign Marlon from Barcelona B this summer.
Marlon Santos da Silva Barbosa, known as Marlon, joined Barcelona B on loan
from Fluminese in the summer of 2016. Later that year, he made his debut for
the Barcelona first team, whilst they were managed by the now Chelsea target
Luis Enrique. Having joined Barcelona on a permanent deal last summer, the
22-year-old was not included in the plans for the 2017-18 season so he
joined OGC Nice on a two-year loan deal.
Since joining the French side, the Brazilian's form has attracted the
interest of several clubs from the Prem, including West Ham and Leicester
City. The Hammers have already approached Barcelona and Nice to express
their interest in signing the centre-back this summer. West Ham may have to
compete with Leicester City who may feel they have the upper hand with the
player given Claude Puel's Nice connection.
Despite this it is reported in Spain that West Ham are the favourites to
sign the centre-back as Pellegrini looks to add to his squad ready for the
next season. Barcelona are yet to receive a "formal offer" from the east
London club.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Manuel Pellegrini is relishing the prospect of managing West Ham United at
London Stadium next season. The Chilean, who got his hands on the new
2018/18 Umbro Home kit after agreeing a three-year deal to take charge of
the Hammers this week, visited the Club's iconic home for the first time on
Tuesday evening.
And, after enjoying a Rolling Stones concert, Pellegrini expects the arena
to be rocking again to the sound of the Claret and Blue Army when the
2018/19 Premier League season kicks-off in August. "I managed a lot of times
against West Ham and the fans were always special fans," said Pellegrini,
who managed eight times against the Hammers during his three seasons at
Manchester City between 2013 and 2016.
Pellegrini visited the Boleyn Ground four times during his time at City,
drawing once and losing once – the latter as Premier League champions – so
he is fully aware of the power West Ham supporters have to inspire their
team on home turf.
"In the old stadium it was 35 or 36,000 people, but now in the new stadium
we have at least 55 or 57,000 people, so I hope the supporters will be a
very important part of the success we can have next season," the 64-year-old
observed. "I know very well that the West Ham fans are always behind their
team. Maybe they were not so happy last season, but I am sure next season we
are going to, all of us together, celebrate an important thing for this
team."
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Sir Trevor Brooking: Pellegrini can deliver stability and progression
WHUFC.com
Sir Trevor Brooking believes that the arrival of Manuel Pellegrini can
signal a fresh start and a bright future for West Ham United. The legendary
Hammers midfielder, who is part of the I'm Forever campaign for the Club's
new 2018/19 Umbro Home and Away kits, is confident that the Chilean's
experience – both in the Premier League and across European football – will
be of great benefit and is backing the former Manchester City boss to lead
his new team forward in the right direction. Speaking exclusively to
whufc.com, Sir Trevor said: "There has been a very positive reaction to
Manuel coming in. I think it's an opportunity to put a tough few months
behind us and look forward with optimism. "The first two years at London
Stadium have brought a number of difficult challenges, which is the case for
any club making a move to a new stadium, and the third year should really be
the point where we can put that behind us and look forward. "It is now a
clean break and a fresh start with the new manager, and we are looking
forward to seeing the impact he can make. His previous experience of the
Premier League is also a big positive. He's not coming into a league – or
the challenges within it – that he doesn't know. "He has good knowledge, he
did well in Spain, and he will have good awareness and contacts when it
comes to identifying potential new players."
With the summer transfer window always bringing great excitement and
anticipation throughout the Premier League, Sir Trevor admits that much
focus will be placed on Pellegrini's recruitment of new players over the
next couple of months, but urges patience and time when it comes to judging
the new manager's ability to bring success to London Stadium.
"Four or five new signings have been mentioned, and I think that is what
most fans will be hoping for," he says. "It's not always easy to conjure up
that number, though, and we've got to be sensible, patient, and give the
manager the backing and the time to make the additions he needs. "They have
got to be the right signings longer term. Manuel has got a three-year
contract, and we must give him the opportunity to make progression over that
period of time. "He doesn't need the pressure of being expected to
transform things overnight. It is extremely tough to break into the top six.
Hopefully next season we can establish ourselves in that second tier just
outside the top six, get the supporters enjoying the football that they are
watching, and make steps that take us forward. "I hope that Manuel is able
to be judged on what he does over the course of the three years. Stability
and progression are what is needed and we are all confident he can deliver
that."
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Manuel Pellegrini can attract top players to West Ham, says Carlton Cole
By Husmukh Kerai
Last Updated: 25/05/18 2:40pm
SSN
Former West Ham striker Carlton Cole expects new manager Manuel Pellegrini
to attract top players to the club during the summer transfer window. West
Ham confirmed the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager on a
three-year deal on Wednesday. The 64-year-old, who has previously managed
Real Madrid and Manchester City, left his role with Hebei China Fortune over
the weekend to join the Hammers. Sky Sports News understands he will earn
around £7m a year, although he will be taking a significant pay cut having
earned around £16m a year in China. Pellegrini has already revealed his
wishlist of up to five players as he promised an attacking revolution at
West Ham during his first press conference. Cole believes the Chilean can
attract top talent to the London Stadium. "Defnitely he is going to be
attracting a few top players that he wants to fit into the team now. He may
let a few go and let a few in. His money is going to be spent wisely," he
told Sky Sports News. "It's hard to [pick specific positions]. I think he
needs to galvanise the team he has already got and then add a few players
who can bring different angles to the team. Help approach the style of play
he wants. You have to look at his history - he likes to play the ball on the
floor. He's gonna get some ball players in, maybe a defender, midfielder and
striker."
Cole also says it is imperative that any players bought into the club
complement last season's 'Hammer of the Year', Marko Arnautovic. He added:
"He's our key player at the moment. If we can get a few players to play off
him and bring the best out of him even more, he'll turn out to be one of our
best players again next season."
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Steven Gerrard 'targets' James Collins to solidify Rangers backline
West Ham legend left the Hammers earlier in the week and Gerrard is
reportedly keen to bring him to Ibrox.
By Daily Record Sport Online
22:56, 25 MAY 2018UPDATED23:14, 25 MAY 2018
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard is reportedly targeting a move for defender
James Collins. The 34-year-old stopper was released by West Ham and fits the
bills as the Ibrox manager looks to solidify a defence that shipped 50 goals
in the Premiership last season.
A move for Martin Skrtel is dead in the water due to the wage demands and
the fee it would cost to take Gerrard's former Liverpool team-mate to Ibrox.
Wales international Collins was freed by the Hammers earlier this week and
Gerrard would now like to bring him north of the border. The veteran spent
six season with the London side and made 214 appearances for West Ham where
he was adored by supporters. Brighton defender Connor Goldson is still high
on Rangers' summer transfer wishlist and Collins has now emerged as a
target, according to the Scottish Sun . It's been a busy summer already for
Gerrard in the transfer market after sealing deals for Allan McGregor, Scott
Arfield and Jamie Murphy. It's understood he also remains keen on Liverpool
winger Harry Wilson, who impressed during his loan with Hull City last
season.
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PELLEGRINI ALREADY TAKING ACTION REGARDING THE ACADEMY IS EXCITINGFeatured
Image
Date: 25th May 2018 at 12:29pm
Written by: Laura OLeary
readWestHam
West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini is reportedly set to make changes to the
way the club handles its Under-23s team and his plan could be a game changer
for years to come. The Hammers have a wonderful academy brimming with
exciting prospects but only a handful of talents in recent years have got
anywhere close to the first-team, with even fewer being able to establish
themselves at the club. It's very important that there is a clear path from
the club's youth system all the way through to its first-team, as not only
does that see the best youngsters arrive at the club, it ensures the Hammers
keep all their hidden gems with them.
Claret & Hugh, a popular Hammers news site with reliable information,
reported on Friday that Pellegrini had plans for the U-23s team to train at
Rush Green in order for them to have much closer contact with the
first-team. The news outlet also revealed that this change would allow the
high-profile manager to keep a closer eye on flourishing talents, so he was
aware of their development.
It is believed that Pellegrini is currently reviewing dossiers on every
Hammers starlet that have been handed to him by academy manager Terry
Westley, and that he has already visited Chadwell Heath, which is where the
youngsters train. While the Hammers boss may have only been in charge for a
matter of days, with loads of promising reports emerging, this is clearly
the most exciting plan to emerge out of the London Stadium yet. If done
right, which it sounds like it is going to be, the Hammers will have a
constant flow of talent filtering through to their first-team, without
spending a penny on transfers. This would be a game changer for the club as
it would guarantee a situation where the first-team manager was never
depleted of options again, for example see how David Moyes struggled in the
tail end of last season when it came to finding midfielders. Therefore while
it may not directly effect the first-team yet, Pellegrini's reported plan
has the future in mind and will have a major game changing effect on the
club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM IN POLE POSITION TO SIGN BARCELONA REJECT
JACK DAVIS @JackkDavis88
ForeverWestHam
West Ham are in pole position to sign Marlon from Barcelona B this summer.
Marlon Santos da Silva Barbosa, known as Marlon, joined Barcelona B on loan
from Fluminese in the summer of 2016. Later that year, he made his debut for
the Barcelona first team, whilst they were managed by the now Chelsea target
Luis Enrique. Having joined Barcelona on a permanent deal last summer, the
22-year-old was not included in the plans for the 2017-18 season so he
joined OGC Nice on a two-year loan deal.
Since joining the French side, the Brazilian's form has attracted the
interest of several clubs from the Prem, including West Ham and Leicester
City. The Hammers have already approached Barcelona and Nice to express
their interest in signing the centre-back this summer. West Ham may have to
compete with Leicester City who may feel they have the upper hand with the
player given Claude Puel's Nice connection.
Despite this it is reported in Spain that West Ham are the favourites to
sign the centre-back as Pellegrini looks to add to his squad ready for the
next season. Barcelona are yet to receive a "formal offer" from the east
London club.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, May 25
Daily WHUFC News - 25th May 2018
James Collins to leave West Ham United
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that James Collins will leave the Club when his
contract expires on 30 June. Collins will depart having made 214 appearances
across two spells spanning ten seasons in Claret and Blue. The centre-half,
who turns 35 in August, initially joined the Hammers from Cardiff City
alongside close friend Danny Gabbidon in July 2005, making his debut in a
League Cup second round victory at Sheffield Wednesday in September of the
same year. He initially spent four years in east London before moving to
Aston Villa. The former Wales international returned to West Ham in the
summer of 2012 and established himself as a regular starter under Sam
Allardyce following the Club's promotion to the Premier League. Collins'
final appearance saw him don the captain's armband for the last few minutes
of the Hammers' 3-1 Premier League win over Allardyce's Everton on 13 May
2018.
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said: "We would like to place
on record our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has given
West Ham United down the years. "His bravery and commitment on the pitch
were never called into question and he has played his part in establishing
the Club in the Premier League since his return in 2012. "We appreciate just
how popular James is among our fellow supporters but, with the appointment
of a new manager, we felt together that the time was right to go our
separate ways. "It goes without saying that we wish James and his family
every success in the future and they will always be welcome at London
Stadium."
Former France defender Patrice Evra will also depart when his contract
expires on 30 June. The 37-year-old arrived on a short-term contract in
February 2018 and made five appearances in Claret and Blue.
The Club will also release youngsters Korrey Henry, Rosaire Longelo and
Rihards Matrevics at the end of their scholarships. West Ham United would
like to thank all five players, and Collins in particular, for their hard
work and commitment and wish them all the best with their future careers.
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The Ginger Pele - James Collins' ten seasons in Claret and Blue
WHUFC.com
James Collins became a true hero to the Claret and Blue Army during his ten
seasons in a West Ham United shirt. The flame-haired defender was just 21
when he swapped his native South Wales and Cardiff City for the bright
lights of east London and the Hammers in July 2005. While the early months
of his West Ham career were affected by injuries, competition for places -
Anton Ferdinand, Tomas Repka, Christian Dailly and his close friend and
former Cardiff teammate Danny Gabbidon were also part of Alan Pardew's
newly-promoted squad - and six losses in his first nine appearances, Collins
waited patiently for his chance to impress, making his debut in a League Cup
second-round victory at Sheffield Wednesday in September 2005.
Collins' second season also took time to get going but, when it did, it
really took off as he returned to the team for the unforgettable nine-match
'Great Escape' from relegation, which culminated in a typically resilient
display from the defender in the 1-0 final-day win at champions Manchester
United. However, his West Ham career would take a backward step as first new
manager Alan Curbishley chose Ferdinand and Matthew Upson as his
first-choice partnership at the start of the 2007/08 season, then Collins
himself suffered a serious knee injury in a reserve-team game at Portsmouth
in January 2008, ruling him out for nine months.
Collins forced his way back into the team in October 2008 and stayed there
but, early the following season, joined Aston Villa in a £5million deal.
However, his West Ham career was far from over. After three seasons with
Villa, for whom he appeared in the 2010 League Cup final defeat by
Manchester United, the then-28-year-old returned to the Hammers for a fee of
around £2.5million in August 2012. He made a career-high 30 starts in
2012/13, scoring two memorable headers in an FA Cup third-round tie with
Manchester United under the Boleyn Ground floodlights, and was part of a
strong defensive unit that also included Winston Reid, James Tomkins and
Joey O'Brien. Collins continued to play his part as he moved into his
thirties, signing a new contract on Christmas Eve 2015, and his status among
West Ham supporters grew as quickly as his striking orange beard.
Nicknamed the Ginger Pele by the Claret and Blue Army, the proud Welshman
helped the Hammers qualify for Europe in back-to-back seasons and featured
25 times as the Club supported by his Essex-born wife Sam and her family bid
farewell to the Boleyn Ground in 2015/16. Collins was named captain for the
Boxing Day trip to AFC Bournemouth on Boxing Day 2017 and celebrated by
scoring his ninth and final goal for the Club. And it was only fitting that
the 34-year-old signed off his West Ham career by wearing the armband, which
was handed to him by his teammate and friend of the past 13 years, Mark
Noble, in the final-day victory over Everton at London Stadium in May 2018.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United announce backroom staff departures
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can today confirm a number of departures from the first team
coaching and medical departments. Goalkeeping Coach Chris Woods, Head of
Medical Services Gary Lewin, Club Doctor Ian Beasley and Head of Fitness
Nick Davies have all left the Club with immediate effect. Following the
arrival of Manuel Pellegrini as manager, a restructuring of the coaching and
backroom staff is currently underway, with several new appointments set to
be confirmed in due course.
The Club would like to thank Chris, Gary, Ian and Nick for their excellent
service and commitment. They leave with the Club's gratitude and respect and
West Ham United wish them all the very best in the future.
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David Gold: We've appointed a winner who is still hungry for success
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold has expressed his delight at
securing the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini as manager and has described
the Chilean as 'a winner still hungry for success'. The former Villarreal,
Real Madrid, Malaga and Manchester City boss arrived at London Stadium this
week on a three-year deal and has made an immediate impression with his
eagerness to gain knowledge of all areas of the Club and his vision for the
future. Speaking exclusively to West Ham TV, Mr Gold said: "I think it's
fantastic. Here is a manager of great reputation, who has been there and
done it. A man who I think has won four league titles in four different
countries, which is remarkable. "Let's hope he can do something special - I
think he will. I've only met him a couple of times, but I've found him very
warm and friendly, but very determined. Everything you see about him is
determination - he wants to know about everything. "He is a football man
but, most of all, I get the impression he is a winner. And he is still
hungry to succeed. I think that's terrific, that's what we want to see."
With the new manager now in place, the focus turns to the summer recruitment
process that will undoubtedly see new faces arrive, but the Joint-Chairman
believes that Pellegrini already has a strong base to build upon. "There is
no question that he is inheriting a decent squad," he said. "We finished
13th, but if we hadn't suffered the awful injuries we had, we could have
finished higher up the league with our full squad. "Yes, of course, we need
to add to it and, to that extent, Manuel is already planning and working on
that. I think he is talking about four or five players - as we were talking
about four or five players, and so straight away we are in agreement about
what should be done."
The Joint-Chairman spent time with the new manager on Wednesday afternoon at
the Club's Academy headquarters at Chadwell Heath, where the pair met
Academy Director Terry Westley to discuss the £3 million redevelopment plans
at the site scheduled for this summer. "Manuel wants to look at the plans,
he is excited about it and he is impressed," said Mr Gold. "He wants to know
about what it is going to deliver. He talks about the importance of young
players and I like to hear that from a manager. "I've been in this business
for 25 years and most managers talk about the here and now - what are you
going to deliver tomorrow? They don't look too much to the future, but
Manuel did - he was keen to talk about the young players, and to see the
facility and the money we are spending here."
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Manuel Pellegrini coming to West Ham is good for English football - Graham
Hunter
WHUFC.com
Journalist, author, broadcaster and Spanish football expert Graham Hunter
shares his personal experiences of West Ham United's new manager Manuel
Pellegrini...
FIRST OF ALL, I AM THRILLED that Manuel Pellegrini is back in British sport.
I like him very much as an individual and I have worked around him quite a
lot, especially at Villarreal, who were the team I covered in the UEFA
Champions League for UEFA.com. Not only did I enjoy his football a lot and
the way they played, but I really liked his integrity and the way he treated
people in general, which was quite old-school. He gives you your due if you
merit it and does not judge you on supposed ideas, but what he finds. I'm
only a journalist, but the way he treated me translates to the way he treats
his players, too. I'm also pleased that he is back because I genuinely
believe is abilities, his attitude and his contacts across European football
have much they bring to the Premier League.
WHILE I'VE GOT LINKS WITH WEST HAM through being friendly with the likes of
Russell Brand, Tony Gale, Matt Lorenzo and Frank McAvennie, and had huge
respect for John Lyall due to his links with the Scottish island of Lewis
and Harris where my mother was brought up, and therefore I have a soft spot
for the Club, but I'm still not a West Ham fan. My viewpoint is that Manuel
coming to West Ham is good for English football, because I believe he's very
talented. I think he inherited a pretty difficult job at Manchester City
which, even if you look at Pep Guardiola's first year, even with huge
investment, it was hard for him to get it right first time. I also firmly
believe that across many sectors of English football, the news of him taking
the City job was met with scepticism and 'Who is this guy?' which I don't
think he merited. Those I know at Manchester City who had to deal with him
adored him. They found him to be a gentleman, true to his word, bright about
football, and therefore I'm pleased for West Ham as this is a
forward-thinking appointment.
WEST HAM HAVE NOT WON A MAJOR TROPHY SINCE 1980 and Pellegrini's own
personal trophy cabinet is not full, either, so people can look and say
there is maybe a match there in a Club and a person who want to change their
records of achievement.
WHAT PELLEGRINI PATENTLY OFFERS IS A SHORTCUT TO PLAYERS and agents across
Europe.
If they see it is a Pellegrini project then, even though they will always
talk about the wages and the budget, they will find themselves persuaded by
who is going to be coaching them, his record and what languages he speaks.
I USED TO REPORT FROM THE UEFA ELITE CLUB COACHES FORUM IN SWITZERLAND,
which is attended by the top managers from across Europe every September.
You'd see all the big names like Mourinho, Ancelotti, Deschamps, Guardiola,
Benitez, the elite coaches in Europe, and the majority had won a European
trophy. Although Pellegrini had only got to the Champions League semi-finals
with Villarreal at that time, he was invited, too. I remember looking into
the dining room and Sir Alex Ferguson was holding a place next to him for
Pellegrini because Fergie wanted to chat to him. That is a mark of the man.
When he was with Villarreal, they faced Manchester United four times in the
Champions League, were unbeaten and did not concede a single goal.
OVERALL, PELLEGRINI IS A MAN OF TALENT AND DIGNITY. He is somebody who will
help West Ham improve their squad, can cope with the challenges of managing
the Club and proposes a style of football which is attractive and exciting.
I have my fingers crossed for him.
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Hammers represented at Premier League Primary Stars tournament
WHUFC.com
West Ham United were represented by two local primary schools on Thursday at
the annual Premier League Primary Stars tournament. The two teams - one
boys' outfit and one girls' side, brought together by the Hammers'
Foundation - enjoyed the day at Leicester City's King Power Stadium, which
saw more than 12,500 youngsters take part in the competition. It was a
successful tournament for the girls' team in particular, with the team from
Lincewood Primary School getting all the way to the semi-finals before
losing out 2-0 to eventual tournament winners Everton. The boys - from
Chirchfields Junior School - were knocked out in the group stages, however,
despite an opening fixture victory against Crystal Palace. The 1-0 win over
the Eagles was followed by 2-0 scorelines against Liverpool and Tottenham
Hotspur with a 1-0 defeat against Watford sandwiched inbetween. The girls,
meanwhile, beat both the Reds and the Hornets (2-0 and 1-0) before also
claiming three points against Palace in a 2-0 victory before a goalless draw
with Spurs.
After the tournament, West Ham Foundation's Ross Williams, the PL Primary
Stars lead, said: "Our two teams came incredibly far to reach the final
stage - with regional qualifiers held throughout the season to represent
West Ham. "We had a fantastic day, and the boys and girls did incredibly
well. It was gutting for the girls to go out in the semi-finals, but both
teams had such a memorable day that it didn't take them long to forget it
and enjoy the experience! "Primary Stars is a brilliant project, and we run
it in over 70 schools across east London and Essex. "It truly is providing
life changing opportunities for our youngsters and these sort of activities
only go to highlight that."
Bella Holloran, one of the girls from Lincewood Primary School who enjoyed
her day as part of the West Ham United girls team, said" "We had an amazing
time. It was so good to be out playing on the pitch at Leicester, and we all
had a great day. "We do Primary Stars at our school and the lessons are fun
and different, but to be given the chance to represent West Ham in this
tournament was something none of us dreamt of!"
Premier League Primary Stars uses the appeal of the Premier League and
professional football clubs to inspire children to learn, be active and
develop important life skills. Available to every primary school in England
and Wales, it inspires girls and boys aged 5-11 in the classroom, the
playground and on the sports field.
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West Ham welcome Ghana legend Stephen Appiah
WHUFC.com
Stephen Appiah is one of Ghana's greatest footballers, having starred at the
2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cup finals. Now, though, Appiah's ambition is to
become a manager, with his ultimate dream being to one day manage his
national side. The 37-year-old is an ambassador for our principal sponsors
Betway was invited to spend a week at the Club to help him kick-start his
coaching career. Appiah, who also played for Italian sides Parma and
Juventus during his career, spent time with the first team and Academy
sides, and spoke to several leading figures at the Club about what it takes
to succeed at the highest level.
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REACTION TO PELLEGRINI AND MOVEMENT IN THE TRANSFER WINDOW
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 24 MAY 2018 AT 5:45PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Corey Evans (twitter - CoreyEvans83)
Firstly, I believe that for the first time in a while, the board deserves
praise for the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini. His impressive track record
includes many trophies and also the ability to work with limited budgets
such as Malaga and also at highly demanding clubs such as Man City. Most
importantly, during his time managing in Europe he has never fallen outside
of the Champions or Europe League which is imperative for a club trying to
move onto the 'next level' like West Ham. For me, it is now imperative that
the board give him the funds to manoeuvre this squad and allow him to put
his own ideas into it. If the board fail to carry out this task, we could be
in this same position in twelve months time.
Moving on to the section in which most Irons fans take most notice at (the
transfer window), I believe we will see many ins and outs with some
extremely exciting signings. Starting in goal, with Joe Hart's loan
finishing means it is essential we get a keeper to push Adrian throughout
the season. Many reports have linked us with Jack Butland and although he is
a fantastic keeper I believe the money would be spent better elsewhere. I
recommend signing Kasper Schmeichel in the region of 15m if we could prize
him away from Leicester. Many would think this is unrealistic but I
personally think that Leicester are being remembered for their title winning
season and not as a mid table team which they are. The chance to potentially
play in Europe again with Pellegrini may tease Schmeichel and with the likes
of Mahrez and Vardy tipped to leave it could be a season of transition for
the 'Foxes'.
I expect to see many departures within the defence for West Ham this season.
With Collins and Evra coming to the end of their contracts I expect to see
Byram, Burke and Oxford all leave permanently. I hope that 'Ginger Pele'
will return as a coach and I am shocked, embarrassed and disgusted by how
badly he's been treated by the club, as are all fellow Hammers fans. All
three youngsters (Byram, Burke and Oxford) have showed promise at times but
I feel it is the right time for them to move on and free up some cash (maybe
15-20m for the three combined) for better replacements who can add more
quality to our squad.
I would go all out for Swansea defender Alfie Mawson. I think he has great
leadership qualities and could go on to be England's captain for years to
come. Similarly to Collins, he has the ability to defend (which is a dying
art these days) and put his body on the line. However, he can also play out
from the back which I feel will be a necessary with Pellegrini in charge. I
also think Cedric of Southampton would be a great addition as Pellegrini
demands full backs that have pace and can get up and down the pitch.
Zabaleta was great in my eyes last season but is now another year older and
Cedric would provide much competition for the right back spot.
Moving onto the midfield, I wouldn't be surprised to see the exits of
Snodgrass (10m), Fernandes (10m) and also youngsters Cullen (1-2m) and
Haksabanovic (2m) leave the club. We also have to consider that Joao Mario's
loan deal has now come to an end.
Taking this into consideration, I feel we need a two central midfielders and
one wide player. The two central players I think we should move for are
Stoke's Joe Allen and free agent Ki-Seung Yeung (previously of Swansea
City). Allen who would cost roughly 20m has the ability to read the game,
run his socks off and distribute the ball when needed. I believe he is one
of the most underrated midfielders in the Prem and didn't get a fair chance
at Liverpool. Whilst, Ki would be a great addition on a free to add more
competition along with the likes of Noble, Kouyate and Obiang. However, I
would not be surprised to see one of Kouyate/Obiang leave this summer.
The wide midfielder in my opinion should be either Shaqiri of Stoke or
Traore of Middlesborough. Both have the ability to play on the counter
attack and both possess lightening pace (something which our squad needs).
They would both cost around 15m and I think Traore is more realistic due to
Shaqiri having many clubs monitoring him however he would be a massive coup
for the club and he would be reunited with our 'Hammer of the Year'
Arnautovic.
With regards to attackers, I believe we will see very little movement unless
Pellegrini decides to move on Carroll. His quality is unquestionable when
fit but with twelve months left on his contract the club may want to cash
in. If so, I would fully expect Rondon of West Brom to be brought in as he
was a key player under Pellegrini at Malaga. Hernandez looks set to stay and
I think this is great news as he is one of the best strikers we've ever had
because of his natural goal scoring instincts. The only player I expect to
definitely leave upfront is Jordan Hugill and if we could recoup around 6-7m
of what we spent I would take it.
Overall, my signings I believe would cost around 80m and I think this is
attainable with Pellegrini given 50m to spend and an extra 30m through
player sales. I also feel that if we could sign Mawson, Allen or both we
could be looking at our Hammer of the Year for the 2018/19 season.
Ones to Watch:
Interestingly, Mario Balotelli, Max Meyer and Oğuzhan Özyakup contracts are
all expiring in the summer and have all previously been linked with us
before. I think Balotelli seems to have calmed down in recent years and his
goal scoring form has improved despite only playing in the French league.
With regards to Meyer, I think this would be a statement of intent from the
board and Meyer has expressed an interest in playing in the Premier League.
Meyer has unbelievable potential and could go on to become one of the best
players within Europe.
Finally, I think it is a time to be excited ahead of next season. I really
believe we can push on and attain 7th place with hopefully a good cup run.
If the fans can galvanise around Pellegrini and make the London Stadium a
tough place to visit then the good times and the 'West Ham Way' may well
return. Would love to hear your thoughts on this article, COME ON YOU
IRONS!!!
Written by Corey Evans (twitter - CoreyEvans83)
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The end for Collins
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 24th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
There will be no new contract for long-serving defender James Collins, whose
current deal expires next month. Collins was recently informed by email that
West Ham would not be offering him a new contract, before the club
backtracked and declared that the final decision would be left to incoming
manager Manuel Pellegrini. However the 34-year-old former Welsh
international clearly hadn't done enough to persuade the new boss that he
was deserving of a new deal as it was confirmed this morning that he was one
of two senior players not being retained. Co-owner David Sullivan, who
received heavy criticism last week for the manner in which Collins'
departure was handled thanked the Welshman for his service. "We would like
to place on record our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has
given West Ham United down the years," he told whufc.com. "His bravery and
commitment on the pitch were never called into question and he has played
his part in establishing the Club in the Premier League since his return in
2012. "We appreciate just how popular James is among our fellow supporters
but, with the appointment of a new manager, we felt together that the time
was right to go our separate ways. It goes without saying that we wish James
and his family every success in the future and they will always be welcome
at London Stadium."
The other senior player not being offered new terms is veteran French
defender Partice Evra, who arrived on a free transfer in February and
featured on just five occasions in the Premier League. In addition to the
two seniors, Academy prospects Korrey Henry, Rosaire Longelo and Rihards
Matrevics are also being released by the club at the end of June.
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Decks cleared ahead of new arrivals
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 24th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have bid farewell to several of David Moyes' former backroom
staff. With new manager Manuel Pellegrini set to introduce his own team over
the course of the next few days, a number of medical and coaching staff have
left the club with immediate effect.
They are as follows:
Gary Lewin (Head of Medical)
The former England physio was appointed in May 2017. Lewin replaced the
outgoing Stijn Vandenbroucke having moved from Arsenal, where he had been
working with the Ladies squad.
Chris Woods (Goalkeeping Coach)
Former England international Woods leaves West Ham after three years at the
club, having been introduced by former Everton team mate Slaven Bilic in
June 2015.
Nick Davies (Head of Sport Science)
Nick first arrived at the club on Alan Curbihley's watch a decade ago,
having followed the manager from Charlton.
Ian Beasley (Club Doctor)
Formerly employed by both England and Arsenal, Beasley moved to West Ham in
July 2017 to team up with Slaven Bilic and his revamped backroom team.
The departures follow the news from earlier this month that Moyes and his
entire coaching team of Stuart Pearce, Alan Irvine and Billy McKinley had
left following the expiry of their short-term contracts.
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West Ham thank James Collins for his 'bravery and commitment' as defender
departs after 10 years' service
KEN DYER
ES Sport
West Ham have confirmed the departure of long-serving central defender James
Collins. The former Wales international, who has been at the club for a
total of 10 years in two spells and made 214 appearances, was hoping for a
new one-year contract but posted a picture on Wednesday of himself leaving
the pitch in the final game of last season, with the caption: "It's official
I will be leaving West Ham on June 30th.Heartbroken."
A big favourite with fans, Collins, 35 in August, had limited game time this
season because of injuries and with new manager Manuel Pellegrini wanting to
freshen up his squad, the writing was always going to be on the wall for the
defender. There was some ill-feeling about Collins's departure when it was
suggested he had been informed in an e-mail but the club dispute this,
claiming conversations had taken place with officials but that regulations
mean players not retained have to be informed before the third weekend in
May.
Owners David Sullivan and David Gold said: "We would like to place on record
our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has given West Ham down
the years. "His bravery and commitment were never called into question and
he has played his part in establishing the club in the Premier League since
his return in 2012. "We appreciate just how popular James is among
supporters but with the appointment of a new manager, we felt together the
time was right to go our separate ways."
Former France defender Patrice Evra will also depart when his contract
expires on June 30.
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Manuel Pellegrini to continue David Moyes' discipline demands at West Ham
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport
David Moyes ran a tight ship in his short time as West Ham manager, and
Manuel Pellegrini is likely to follow a similar path. The former Hammers
manager demanded a level of discipline which was non-existent under his
predecessor Slaven Bilic, clashing on occasion with the likes of Michail
Antonio and Andy Carroll over time-keeping and attitude issues. It was
something the Scotsman ranked among his highest priorities, and credited as
a key factor in their Premier League survival after players told him
standards had waned under Bilic. Now former Manchester City manager
Pellegrini has taken the reins. With European football once again the
long-term target at London Stadium, he will demand three core principles
from his squad - both on and off the pitch - when they meet for pre-season.
"Usually, the first few days I'm with the players I tell them how I work
with a group, not just on the pitch but off the pitch, too," Pellegrini
wrote recently for The Coaches' Voice. "For me, there are three things that
are totally non-negotiable with players. "First of all, respect. Respect for
everything: the club, fans, journalists, coaching staff, directors. Respect
among the players themselves, that's very important. "Second is commitment,"
he continued. "I think there are a lot of ways to coach, but you have to get
the commitment of the group to your way of coaching. "And third:
performance. For me, it is not up for negotiation at all. I try to be as
objective as possible. I understand players who aren't playing can't be
happy, but my demands of them have to be exactly the same."
Pellegrini, who spent his first full day as West Ham manager meeting staff
and settling in at the Rush Green training ground, has targeted "four or
five new" signings ahead of his first season and is expected to bring in
Ruben Cousillas as assistant manager to reinforce his mantra.
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Pellegrini eyes seven West Ham signings, including Yaya Toure
HITC
Jordan Harris
A report has outlined how many signings Manuel Pellegrini would like in his
first summer as West Ham United boss. According to a report from The
Telegraph, Manuel Pellegrini is hoping to try and make seven signings during
his first summer as West Ham boss, and would like to bring Yaya Toure to the
London Stadium.
Pellegrini's appointment was confirmed earlier this week, and there was
plenty of excitement that his arrival may be the catalyst for a gradual
ascent up the Premier League table after spending much of David Moyes'
tenure battling to beat the drop. And it appears that Pellegrini has major
plans for the first few months of his tenure, with The Telegraph reporting
that he is eyeing as many as seven additions to the first-team squad during
his first window. And a move for Toure is on his radar. Toure - who has
earned £220,000-a-week at the Etihad Stadium this past season, according to
Spotrac - will soon see his Manchester City contract expire and he will be
able to discuss a free transfer to one of City's Premier League rivals if he
wishes to stay in England. The 35-year-old has worked with Pellegrini
before, and certainly made a devastating impact for City while he was
playing under the Chilean. He scored 36 goals in all competitions during
Pellegrini's first two seasons with the club, including 20 in the top flight
during the 2013/14 campaign which saw the Cityzens win their second Premier
League title. He may prove to be an expensive signing in terms of wages, but
he has to be considered to be one of the finest midfielders from the Premier
League era and will be hoping to prove at his next club that he still has a
lot to offer in the twilight years of his career. And with Pellegrini's
ideal summer appearing to involve landing Toure with another six signings
following him through the door, it appears that it may well prove to be a
very exciting window for the Irons.
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RANGERS SHOULD FORGET LANDING BURKEFeatured Image
Date: 24th May 2018 at 4:34pm
Written by: Wayne Howard
Forever WestHam
Rangers should forget about signing West Ham defender Reece Burke. He is a
promising youngster who has already played 15 times for the Hammers but is
not the answer for the Glasgow giants as they step up plans to reinforce a
defence that was far too porous in the recently completed campaign. Rangers
boss Steven Gerrard and recruitment chief Mark Allen need to set their
sights on battle-hardened warriors who are used to the pressure of
delivering at a big team. There has been speculation of interest in Martin
Skrtel, the ex-Liverpool defender now at Fenerbahce, and he is the kind of
defensive leader they need. In truth, the 54-times champions need three new
centre-backs, as Bruno Alves and Fabio Cardoso are not up to it, David Bates
has quit for Hamburg and Russell Martin has returned to Norwich City.
Rangers already have a rising defensive star in academy graduate Ross
McCrorie, who has all the tools to be an Ibrox defensive star for years,
provided they can keep him away from clubs south of the border.
The Mirror have reported that Gerrard wants to make Burke, who Transfermarkt
report stands at 6ft 2in, his next signing following his impressive campaign
on loan at Championship outfit Bolton Wanderers. Intriguingly, the The Times
claim new Hammers manager Manuel Pellegrini will listen to offers for the
club's academy product. But Rangers should steer clear. Spending big money
on a rookie for their defence would be a terrible mistake.
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WEST HAM IN FOR MAREGAFeatured Image
Date: 24th May 2018 at 3:24pm
Written by: Guy Giles
ForeverWestHam
West Ham United are in the hunt to sign prolific Porto striker Moussa Marega
this summer, according to Correio de Manha. The leading Portuguese
newspaper, as translated by Sport Witness, report that the Hammers are among
three English clubs who are in hot pursuit of the 27-year-old. Correio de
Manha claim that Porto have set an asking price of £26million, which
represents a £9million slash on the striker's release clause of £35million.
The Mali international hitman bagged an impressive 23 goals in all
competitions this season, with eight assists on top of that.
Marega had a massively prolific season for Porto as they waltzed to the
Primeira Liga title, and the 27-year-old looks ready for a step up. His
powerful, pacy play up front seemingly suits the Premier League down to a
tee, and West Ham would do brilliantly to win the race for his signature.
One thing that Marega would need to improve quickly is his hold up play and
discipline, but Manuel Pellegrini should be able to drill those in to him
soon enough. A massive bonus for the Hammers here is the £9million reduction
in price, with £26million far more affordable than the previous £35million
price tag.
Forever West Ham rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like Marega will move on this summer, but his destination is
anyone's guess. Wolves and Aston Villa are the other English sides in the
hunt, and you would think that the Hammers have the financial might to
outmuscle either of those clubs. All that's left now is to wait and see if
the Irons' interest is genuine, which should come to light in the next few
weeks.
Forever West Ham rating: 3/10
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Could Manuel Pellegrini convince Reece Oxford to stay at West Ham United?
HITC
John Verrall
West Ham United defender Reece Oxford has been tipped for an exit this
summer. Manuel Pellegrini may be able to help convince Reece Oxford to stay
at West Ham United, if his comments in his first interview are anything to
go by. West Ham published an interview with their new manager on their
official website, and during it the Chilean boss suggested that he wanted to
give more of the club's academy players a chance. Pellegrini stressed how
important bringing through young players was to him, and that could be music
to Oxford's ears. Pellegrini said: "For me, the young players are very
important. Me and my staff will be there with the young players at the
academy. We are going to try and have the same style of football and always.
"I hope in the three years, we can bring a lot of young players to the
first-team."
If Pellegrini is true to his word, then Oxford could be one of West Ham's
academy graduates who is ready to break into his first-team straight away.
Football.London reported how Oxford was thinking about moving away from West
Ham in search of more regular action. The youngster spent last season out on
loan at Borussia Monchengladbach, and West Ham were reportedly ready to cash
in on him for £18 million. However, Pellegrini's commitment to playing
youngsters could be just what Oxford was wanting to hear. And it may suggest
that the young defender could yet make an impact at the London Stadium next
season.
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MANUEL PELLEGRINI LOOKS TO MAKE EDOUARD MENDY HIS FIRST SIGNING
BEN EMMOTT
readWestHam
Manuel Pellegrini has got his eyes set on signing a goalkeeper as his first
task as West Ham boss. The newly appointed manager is looking to sign Reims
goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The goalkeeper was one of the players of the
season in Ligue 2 as he managed to only concede 22 goals in 34 matches,
racking up an impressive 18 clean sheets. According to the Mirror, the
25-year-old would cost the Hammers around £2 million, which would be cheap
for a keeper who has the potential to get even better. Despite interest from
numerous Championship clubs, Mendy and his team believe he is good enough to
make a name for himself in the Premier League. Joe Hart has returned to
Manchester City after his loan at the London Stadium and Adrian hasn't been
in the best form when he's played for the club, leaving Pellegrini with a
goalkeeping situation on his hands.
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INSIDER RUBBISHES THOMAS REPORTS
Date: 24th May 2018 at 9:37am
Written by: Guy Giles
ForeverWestHam
Reports suggesting Derby youngster Luke Thomas is set to become Manuel
Pellegrini's first signing at West Ham are "not true whatsoever", according
to a club insider. According to Gloucestershire Live the Hammers submitted a
£1.2million bid for the Rams Young Player of the Year, with former club
Cheltenham Town in line to receive a 15% sell-on fee for the 19-year-old.
However, as reported by West Ham site Claret and Hugh, a club source has
said that these claims are well wide of the mark as Pellegrini seeks his
first Irons incoming. The source is quoted as saying this report was "not
true whatsoever" amid this huge development.
OPINION
It had seemed like a deal for Thomas was close between the two clubs, with
reports seemingly adamant that the Hammers had tabled a bid for the
19-year-old. However, this club insider seems to think that is not the case,
and Claret and Hugh are usually spot on with their information. This is not
to say that the Hammers are not interested in Thomas, but they do not seem
to be close to a deal for the youngster. So, the search goes on for
Pellegrini's first signing, and fans will be hoping for a much bigger name
to be Pellegrini's first incoming. The Chilean has spoken about the need to
bring in four or five new players in the coming weeks, with several areas of
the squad needing reinforcements. Defence in particular needs bolstering,
with the Hammers conceding a joint league-high 68 goals in 2017/18, with
midfield also an issue.
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PELLEGRINI AND THE BOARD - A LEAP OF TRUST?
By Blind Hammer 24 May 2018 at 08:00
WTID
Blind Hammer looks at Pellegrini's strategic relationship with the Board
The excitement surrounding Pellegrini's appointment is approaching Messianic
proportions. Sir Trevor Brooking is probably correct to introduce a note of
caution and warn that patience may be required.
Yet some excitement is certainly understandable. Pellegrini is the most high
profile and successful Manager we have ever appointed.
This excitement extends to the Board. From what we hear Pellegrini will have
unprecedented control over Transfer Policy. In his first interview
Pellegrini has already talked of the need to bring in 4-5 players. If this
handover to Pellegrini is genuine it represents a remarkable volte face.
This is in high contrast to their relationship with Allardyce, Bilic and
Moyes. Instead of reserving some control they are leaping into a new level
of trust and confidence.
Whatever the complaints from supporters the numbers of Premier League
Managers who genuinely control transfer policy are vanishingly small.
Wenger's departure from Arsenal makes identifying such Managers even harder.
It is clear, for example, that differences in transfer policy between Conte
and the Chelsea Board is one of the biggest ongoing tensions at Stamford
Bridge. Pochettino has poured pressure on Tottenham by suggesting his
continued management may depend on how well Levy delivers his desired
transfer targets. Pellegrini himself complained of Board interference with
squad recruitment whilst at Real Madrid.
Whilst Madrid recruitment was distorted by their desire to hoover up Global
attacking talent, neglecting more mundane areas, most Boards interfere on
economic grounds.
Supporters rail against their Boards because of perceived penny pinching.
The reality is slightly more complicated. There is also an underlying
structural tension. Football managers come and go with alarming frequency.
West Brom had 3 managers last season. West Ham had 2, as did Crystal Palace,
Southampton, Watford, Stoke, Swansea, and Leicester. West Ham now has their
third Manager in just over 6 months, as will Stoke, Swansea and Everton.
Despite their FA Cup win Chelsea appear keen to make a change. Any logical
analysis of this turnover indicates that allowing unfettered control over
squad development invites problems. Manager A invest vast sums assembling
his squad, only to see it fail. Manager B comes along and has a different
view. He feels it is unbalanced. Both Manager A and Manager B and
potentially even manager C have little interest in investing for the longer
term, given their likely restricted tenure. They instead prioritise players
who can perform immediately. This pressure tends to outweigh concerns about
age and development. So players are recruited by Manager B and possibly
Manager C on top of the players recruited by Manager A. Yet shifting on the
failed earlier player investments may be far harder. The result are bloated
squads with expensively acquired but unsuccessful players. These mistaken
investments, often on high wages can prove difficult, if not impossible to
move on. This problem explains why teams like Sunderland and Aston Villa,
despite spending more than average, still managed to spiral into relegation.
It could be argued that a Board which does not supervise transfer priorities
fail in their duty. The existence of this tension is one of the biggest
motivators for the Director of Football role. Yet if we are to credit the
reports, this caution is precisely what the Board is prepared to jettison
for a make or potentially break new relationship with Pellegrini.
Starting out this new relationship will not be difficult. It is easy now to
express trust and confidence with a Manager of his outstanding record.
However this trust will come under immediate strain if Pellegrini is, for
whatever reason, slow in delivering the sustained improvement we all crave.
Whether the Board will honour their "hands off" approach then is much more
uncertain.
Of course Pellegrini has vast experience of dealing with Boards. Probably
the most difficult was Malaga. Malaga has been quoted as a possible template
for Pellegrini's new West Ham project. Yet this project ended in tears.
Billionaire Oil Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani purchased Malaga in June 2010. He
proceeded to invest millions bringing in top players. To oversee this
investment he recruited Pellegrini in 2011 and allowed £80 million for his
new Manager to recruit stars like Santiago Cazorla and Joris Mathijsen.
Pellegrini duly delivered Champions League qualification for Malaga yet
within a year the club was in what was described as financial meltdown. The
expensively acquired players who had delivered success for Malaga were in
turn then sold on. The reason for this was to "balance the books" and
allegedly comply with FIFA Fair Play regulations. It was reported that the
remaining players and Pellegrini himself were not paid for several months.
Given the depth of Malaga's financial collapse some may question
Pellegrini's financial acumen. Most commentators have though instead
focussed on the reportedly capricious behaviour of Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani
who is alleged to have, in the end, only a paper thin commitment to Malaga.
He is reported to have withdrawn funds because of unhappiness with local
Political factors in the Costa Del sol. In the end the Malaga story probably
warns us of the risks inherent in chasing an illusory pot of gold from an
Oil Rich investor who does not have a history of emotional commitment to a
club.
Pellegrini was probably reassured by the history of Gold and Sullivan's long
term support of West Ham. Whilst having far more limited resources they are
far less likely to pull the more limited resources they can offer.
We will wait to see whether this new trust can be sustained against the
competitive rigours of the most difficult league in the world. It is a
gamble, but for Sullivan, in particular, this is a gamble which he must feel
he has little to risk losing. West Ham could never deliver the millions
other clubs could offer. They could however offer unprecedented trust and
control. This must have attractive Pellegrini. Sullivan must feel the hand
of history judging his stewardship of West Ham. His stewardship has been
blighted by controversy. In probably the boldest decision of his control he
has made a make or break decision which could determine his legacy. It
provides at least a chance for a historic positive heritage. For this to
emerge may require patience from all, not least from all of us as fans.
COYI
David Griffith
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that James Collins will leave the Club when his
contract expires on 30 June. Collins will depart having made 214 appearances
across two spells spanning ten seasons in Claret and Blue. The centre-half,
who turns 35 in August, initially joined the Hammers from Cardiff City
alongside close friend Danny Gabbidon in July 2005, making his debut in a
League Cup second round victory at Sheffield Wednesday in September of the
same year. He initially spent four years in east London before moving to
Aston Villa. The former Wales international returned to West Ham in the
summer of 2012 and established himself as a regular starter under Sam
Allardyce following the Club's promotion to the Premier League. Collins'
final appearance saw him don the captain's armband for the last few minutes
of the Hammers' 3-1 Premier League win over Allardyce's Everton on 13 May
2018.
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said: "We would like to place
on record our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has given
West Ham United down the years. "His bravery and commitment on the pitch
were never called into question and he has played his part in establishing
the Club in the Premier League since his return in 2012. "We appreciate just
how popular James is among our fellow supporters but, with the appointment
of a new manager, we felt together that the time was right to go our
separate ways. "It goes without saying that we wish James and his family
every success in the future and they will always be welcome at London
Stadium."
Former France defender Patrice Evra will also depart when his contract
expires on 30 June. The 37-year-old arrived on a short-term contract in
February 2018 and made five appearances in Claret and Blue.
The Club will also release youngsters Korrey Henry, Rosaire Longelo and
Rihards Matrevics at the end of their scholarships. West Ham United would
like to thank all five players, and Collins in particular, for their hard
work and commitment and wish them all the best with their future careers.
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The Ginger Pele - James Collins' ten seasons in Claret and Blue
WHUFC.com
James Collins became a true hero to the Claret and Blue Army during his ten
seasons in a West Ham United shirt. The flame-haired defender was just 21
when he swapped his native South Wales and Cardiff City for the bright
lights of east London and the Hammers in July 2005. While the early months
of his West Ham career were affected by injuries, competition for places -
Anton Ferdinand, Tomas Repka, Christian Dailly and his close friend and
former Cardiff teammate Danny Gabbidon were also part of Alan Pardew's
newly-promoted squad - and six losses in his first nine appearances, Collins
waited patiently for his chance to impress, making his debut in a League Cup
second-round victory at Sheffield Wednesday in September 2005.
Collins' second season also took time to get going but, when it did, it
really took off as he returned to the team for the unforgettable nine-match
'Great Escape' from relegation, which culminated in a typically resilient
display from the defender in the 1-0 final-day win at champions Manchester
United. However, his West Ham career would take a backward step as first new
manager Alan Curbishley chose Ferdinand and Matthew Upson as his
first-choice partnership at the start of the 2007/08 season, then Collins
himself suffered a serious knee injury in a reserve-team game at Portsmouth
in January 2008, ruling him out for nine months.
Collins forced his way back into the team in October 2008 and stayed there
but, early the following season, joined Aston Villa in a £5million deal.
However, his West Ham career was far from over. After three seasons with
Villa, for whom he appeared in the 2010 League Cup final defeat by
Manchester United, the then-28-year-old returned to the Hammers for a fee of
around £2.5million in August 2012. He made a career-high 30 starts in
2012/13, scoring two memorable headers in an FA Cup third-round tie with
Manchester United under the Boleyn Ground floodlights, and was part of a
strong defensive unit that also included Winston Reid, James Tomkins and
Joey O'Brien. Collins continued to play his part as he moved into his
thirties, signing a new contract on Christmas Eve 2015, and his status among
West Ham supporters grew as quickly as his striking orange beard.
Nicknamed the Ginger Pele by the Claret and Blue Army, the proud Welshman
helped the Hammers qualify for Europe in back-to-back seasons and featured
25 times as the Club supported by his Essex-born wife Sam and her family bid
farewell to the Boleyn Ground in 2015/16. Collins was named captain for the
Boxing Day trip to AFC Bournemouth on Boxing Day 2017 and celebrated by
scoring his ninth and final goal for the Club. And it was only fitting that
the 34-year-old signed off his West Ham career by wearing the armband, which
was handed to him by his teammate and friend of the past 13 years, Mark
Noble, in the final-day victory over Everton at London Stadium in May 2018.
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West Ham United announce backroom staff departures
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can today confirm a number of departures from the first team
coaching and medical departments. Goalkeeping Coach Chris Woods, Head of
Medical Services Gary Lewin, Club Doctor Ian Beasley and Head of Fitness
Nick Davies have all left the Club with immediate effect. Following the
arrival of Manuel Pellegrini as manager, a restructuring of the coaching and
backroom staff is currently underway, with several new appointments set to
be confirmed in due course.
The Club would like to thank Chris, Gary, Ian and Nick for their excellent
service and commitment. They leave with the Club's gratitude and respect and
West Ham United wish them all the very best in the future.
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David Gold: We've appointed a winner who is still hungry for success
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold has expressed his delight at
securing the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini as manager and has described
the Chilean as 'a winner still hungry for success'. The former Villarreal,
Real Madrid, Malaga and Manchester City boss arrived at London Stadium this
week on a three-year deal and has made an immediate impression with his
eagerness to gain knowledge of all areas of the Club and his vision for the
future. Speaking exclusively to West Ham TV, Mr Gold said: "I think it's
fantastic. Here is a manager of great reputation, who has been there and
done it. A man who I think has won four league titles in four different
countries, which is remarkable. "Let's hope he can do something special - I
think he will. I've only met him a couple of times, but I've found him very
warm and friendly, but very determined. Everything you see about him is
determination - he wants to know about everything. "He is a football man
but, most of all, I get the impression he is a winner. And he is still
hungry to succeed. I think that's terrific, that's what we want to see."
With the new manager now in place, the focus turns to the summer recruitment
process that will undoubtedly see new faces arrive, but the Joint-Chairman
believes that Pellegrini already has a strong base to build upon. "There is
no question that he is inheriting a decent squad," he said. "We finished
13th, but if we hadn't suffered the awful injuries we had, we could have
finished higher up the league with our full squad. "Yes, of course, we need
to add to it and, to that extent, Manuel is already planning and working on
that. I think he is talking about four or five players - as we were talking
about four or five players, and so straight away we are in agreement about
what should be done."
The Joint-Chairman spent time with the new manager on Wednesday afternoon at
the Club's Academy headquarters at Chadwell Heath, where the pair met
Academy Director Terry Westley to discuss the £3 million redevelopment plans
at the site scheduled for this summer. "Manuel wants to look at the plans,
he is excited about it and he is impressed," said Mr Gold. "He wants to know
about what it is going to deliver. He talks about the importance of young
players and I like to hear that from a manager. "I've been in this business
for 25 years and most managers talk about the here and now - what are you
going to deliver tomorrow? They don't look too much to the future, but
Manuel did - he was keen to talk about the young players, and to see the
facility and the money we are spending here."
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Manuel Pellegrini coming to West Ham is good for English football - Graham
Hunter
WHUFC.com
Journalist, author, broadcaster and Spanish football expert Graham Hunter
shares his personal experiences of West Ham United's new manager Manuel
Pellegrini...
FIRST OF ALL, I AM THRILLED that Manuel Pellegrini is back in British sport.
I like him very much as an individual and I have worked around him quite a
lot, especially at Villarreal, who were the team I covered in the UEFA
Champions League for UEFA.com. Not only did I enjoy his football a lot and
the way they played, but I really liked his integrity and the way he treated
people in general, which was quite old-school. He gives you your due if you
merit it and does not judge you on supposed ideas, but what he finds. I'm
only a journalist, but the way he treated me translates to the way he treats
his players, too. I'm also pleased that he is back because I genuinely
believe is abilities, his attitude and his contacts across European football
have much they bring to the Premier League.
WHILE I'VE GOT LINKS WITH WEST HAM through being friendly with the likes of
Russell Brand, Tony Gale, Matt Lorenzo and Frank McAvennie, and had huge
respect for John Lyall due to his links with the Scottish island of Lewis
and Harris where my mother was brought up, and therefore I have a soft spot
for the Club, but I'm still not a West Ham fan. My viewpoint is that Manuel
coming to West Ham is good for English football, because I believe he's very
talented. I think he inherited a pretty difficult job at Manchester City
which, even if you look at Pep Guardiola's first year, even with huge
investment, it was hard for him to get it right first time. I also firmly
believe that across many sectors of English football, the news of him taking
the City job was met with scepticism and 'Who is this guy?' which I don't
think he merited. Those I know at Manchester City who had to deal with him
adored him. They found him to be a gentleman, true to his word, bright about
football, and therefore I'm pleased for West Ham as this is a
forward-thinking appointment.
WEST HAM HAVE NOT WON A MAJOR TROPHY SINCE 1980 and Pellegrini's own
personal trophy cabinet is not full, either, so people can look and say
there is maybe a match there in a Club and a person who want to change their
records of achievement.
WHAT PELLEGRINI PATENTLY OFFERS IS A SHORTCUT TO PLAYERS and agents across
Europe.
If they see it is a Pellegrini project then, even though they will always
talk about the wages and the budget, they will find themselves persuaded by
who is going to be coaching them, his record and what languages he speaks.
I USED TO REPORT FROM THE UEFA ELITE CLUB COACHES FORUM IN SWITZERLAND,
which is attended by the top managers from across Europe every September.
You'd see all the big names like Mourinho, Ancelotti, Deschamps, Guardiola,
Benitez, the elite coaches in Europe, and the majority had won a European
trophy. Although Pellegrini had only got to the Champions League semi-finals
with Villarreal at that time, he was invited, too. I remember looking into
the dining room and Sir Alex Ferguson was holding a place next to him for
Pellegrini because Fergie wanted to chat to him. That is a mark of the man.
When he was with Villarreal, they faced Manchester United four times in the
Champions League, were unbeaten and did not concede a single goal.
OVERALL, PELLEGRINI IS A MAN OF TALENT AND DIGNITY. He is somebody who will
help West Ham improve their squad, can cope with the challenges of managing
the Club and proposes a style of football which is attractive and exciting.
I have my fingers crossed for him.
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Hammers represented at Premier League Primary Stars tournament
WHUFC.com
West Ham United were represented by two local primary schools on Thursday at
the annual Premier League Primary Stars tournament. The two teams - one
boys' outfit and one girls' side, brought together by the Hammers'
Foundation - enjoyed the day at Leicester City's King Power Stadium, which
saw more than 12,500 youngsters take part in the competition. It was a
successful tournament for the girls' team in particular, with the team from
Lincewood Primary School getting all the way to the semi-finals before
losing out 2-0 to eventual tournament winners Everton. The boys - from
Chirchfields Junior School - were knocked out in the group stages, however,
despite an opening fixture victory against Crystal Palace. The 1-0 win over
the Eagles was followed by 2-0 scorelines against Liverpool and Tottenham
Hotspur with a 1-0 defeat against Watford sandwiched inbetween. The girls,
meanwhile, beat both the Reds and the Hornets (2-0 and 1-0) before also
claiming three points against Palace in a 2-0 victory before a goalless draw
with Spurs.
After the tournament, West Ham Foundation's Ross Williams, the PL Primary
Stars lead, said: "Our two teams came incredibly far to reach the final
stage - with regional qualifiers held throughout the season to represent
West Ham. "We had a fantastic day, and the boys and girls did incredibly
well. It was gutting for the girls to go out in the semi-finals, but both
teams had such a memorable day that it didn't take them long to forget it
and enjoy the experience! "Primary Stars is a brilliant project, and we run
it in over 70 schools across east London and Essex. "It truly is providing
life changing opportunities for our youngsters and these sort of activities
only go to highlight that."
Bella Holloran, one of the girls from Lincewood Primary School who enjoyed
her day as part of the West Ham United girls team, said" "We had an amazing
time. It was so good to be out playing on the pitch at Leicester, and we all
had a great day. "We do Primary Stars at our school and the lessons are fun
and different, but to be given the chance to represent West Ham in this
tournament was something none of us dreamt of!"
Premier League Primary Stars uses the appeal of the Premier League and
professional football clubs to inspire children to learn, be active and
develop important life skills. Available to every primary school in England
and Wales, it inspires girls and boys aged 5-11 in the classroom, the
playground and on the sports field.
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West Ham welcome Ghana legend Stephen Appiah
WHUFC.com
Stephen Appiah is one of Ghana's greatest footballers, having starred at the
2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cup finals. Now, though, Appiah's ambition is to
become a manager, with his ultimate dream being to one day manage his
national side. The 37-year-old is an ambassador for our principal sponsors
Betway was invited to spend a week at the Club to help him kick-start his
coaching career. Appiah, who also played for Italian sides Parma and
Juventus during his career, spent time with the first team and Academy
sides, and spoke to several leading figures at the Club about what it takes
to succeed at the highest level.
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REACTION TO PELLEGRINI AND MOVEMENT IN THE TRANSFER WINDOW
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 24 MAY 2018 AT 5:45PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Corey Evans (twitter - CoreyEvans83)
Firstly, I believe that for the first time in a while, the board deserves
praise for the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini. His impressive track record
includes many trophies and also the ability to work with limited budgets
such as Malaga and also at highly demanding clubs such as Man City. Most
importantly, during his time managing in Europe he has never fallen outside
of the Champions or Europe League which is imperative for a club trying to
move onto the 'next level' like West Ham. For me, it is now imperative that
the board give him the funds to manoeuvre this squad and allow him to put
his own ideas into it. If the board fail to carry out this task, we could be
in this same position in twelve months time.
Moving on to the section in which most Irons fans take most notice at (the
transfer window), I believe we will see many ins and outs with some
extremely exciting signings. Starting in goal, with Joe Hart's loan
finishing means it is essential we get a keeper to push Adrian throughout
the season. Many reports have linked us with Jack Butland and although he is
a fantastic keeper I believe the money would be spent better elsewhere. I
recommend signing Kasper Schmeichel in the region of 15m if we could prize
him away from Leicester. Many would think this is unrealistic but I
personally think that Leicester are being remembered for their title winning
season and not as a mid table team which they are. The chance to potentially
play in Europe again with Pellegrini may tease Schmeichel and with the likes
of Mahrez and Vardy tipped to leave it could be a season of transition for
the 'Foxes'.
I expect to see many departures within the defence for West Ham this season.
With Collins and Evra coming to the end of their contracts I expect to see
Byram, Burke and Oxford all leave permanently. I hope that 'Ginger Pele'
will return as a coach and I am shocked, embarrassed and disgusted by how
badly he's been treated by the club, as are all fellow Hammers fans. All
three youngsters (Byram, Burke and Oxford) have showed promise at times but
I feel it is the right time for them to move on and free up some cash (maybe
15-20m for the three combined) for better replacements who can add more
quality to our squad.
I would go all out for Swansea defender Alfie Mawson. I think he has great
leadership qualities and could go on to be England's captain for years to
come. Similarly to Collins, he has the ability to defend (which is a dying
art these days) and put his body on the line. However, he can also play out
from the back which I feel will be a necessary with Pellegrini in charge. I
also think Cedric of Southampton would be a great addition as Pellegrini
demands full backs that have pace and can get up and down the pitch.
Zabaleta was great in my eyes last season but is now another year older and
Cedric would provide much competition for the right back spot.
Moving onto the midfield, I wouldn't be surprised to see the exits of
Snodgrass (10m), Fernandes (10m) and also youngsters Cullen (1-2m) and
Haksabanovic (2m) leave the club. We also have to consider that Joao Mario's
loan deal has now come to an end.
Taking this into consideration, I feel we need a two central midfielders and
one wide player. The two central players I think we should move for are
Stoke's Joe Allen and free agent Ki-Seung Yeung (previously of Swansea
City). Allen who would cost roughly 20m has the ability to read the game,
run his socks off and distribute the ball when needed. I believe he is one
of the most underrated midfielders in the Prem and didn't get a fair chance
at Liverpool. Whilst, Ki would be a great addition on a free to add more
competition along with the likes of Noble, Kouyate and Obiang. However, I
would not be surprised to see one of Kouyate/Obiang leave this summer.
The wide midfielder in my opinion should be either Shaqiri of Stoke or
Traore of Middlesborough. Both have the ability to play on the counter
attack and both possess lightening pace (something which our squad needs).
They would both cost around 15m and I think Traore is more realistic due to
Shaqiri having many clubs monitoring him however he would be a massive coup
for the club and he would be reunited with our 'Hammer of the Year'
Arnautovic.
With regards to attackers, I believe we will see very little movement unless
Pellegrini decides to move on Carroll. His quality is unquestionable when
fit but with twelve months left on his contract the club may want to cash
in. If so, I would fully expect Rondon of West Brom to be brought in as he
was a key player under Pellegrini at Malaga. Hernandez looks set to stay and
I think this is great news as he is one of the best strikers we've ever had
because of his natural goal scoring instincts. The only player I expect to
definitely leave upfront is Jordan Hugill and if we could recoup around 6-7m
of what we spent I would take it.
Overall, my signings I believe would cost around 80m and I think this is
attainable with Pellegrini given 50m to spend and an extra 30m through
player sales. I also feel that if we could sign Mawson, Allen or both we
could be looking at our Hammer of the Year for the 2018/19 season.
Ones to Watch:
Interestingly, Mario Balotelli, Max Meyer and Oğuzhan Özyakup contracts are
all expiring in the summer and have all previously been linked with us
before. I think Balotelli seems to have calmed down in recent years and his
goal scoring form has improved despite only playing in the French league.
With regards to Meyer, I think this would be a statement of intent from the
board and Meyer has expressed an interest in playing in the Premier League.
Meyer has unbelievable potential and could go on to become one of the best
players within Europe.
Finally, I think it is a time to be excited ahead of next season. I really
believe we can push on and attain 7th place with hopefully a good cup run.
If the fans can galvanise around Pellegrini and make the London Stadium a
tough place to visit then the good times and the 'West Ham Way' may well
return. Would love to hear your thoughts on this article, COME ON YOU
IRONS!!!
Written by Corey Evans (twitter - CoreyEvans83)
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The end for Collins
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 24th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
There will be no new contract for long-serving defender James Collins, whose
current deal expires next month. Collins was recently informed by email that
West Ham would not be offering him a new contract, before the club
backtracked and declared that the final decision would be left to incoming
manager Manuel Pellegrini. However the 34-year-old former Welsh
international clearly hadn't done enough to persuade the new boss that he
was deserving of a new deal as it was confirmed this morning that he was one
of two senior players not being retained. Co-owner David Sullivan, who
received heavy criticism last week for the manner in which Collins'
departure was handled thanked the Welshman for his service. "We would like
to place on record our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has
given West Ham United down the years," he told whufc.com. "His bravery and
commitment on the pitch were never called into question and he has played
his part in establishing the Club in the Premier League since his return in
2012. "We appreciate just how popular James is among our fellow supporters
but, with the appointment of a new manager, we felt together that the time
was right to go our separate ways. It goes without saying that we wish James
and his family every success in the future and they will always be welcome
at London Stadium."
The other senior player not being offered new terms is veteran French
defender Partice Evra, who arrived on a free transfer in February and
featured on just five occasions in the Premier League. In addition to the
two seniors, Academy prospects Korrey Henry, Rosaire Longelo and Rihards
Matrevics are also being released by the club at the end of June.
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Decks cleared ahead of new arrivals
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 24th May 2018
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have bid farewell to several of David Moyes' former backroom
staff. With new manager Manuel Pellegrini set to introduce his own team over
the course of the next few days, a number of medical and coaching staff have
left the club with immediate effect.
They are as follows:
Gary Lewin (Head of Medical)
The former England physio was appointed in May 2017. Lewin replaced the
outgoing Stijn Vandenbroucke having moved from Arsenal, where he had been
working with the Ladies squad.
Chris Woods (Goalkeeping Coach)
Former England international Woods leaves West Ham after three years at the
club, having been introduced by former Everton team mate Slaven Bilic in
June 2015.
Nick Davies (Head of Sport Science)
Nick first arrived at the club on Alan Curbihley's watch a decade ago,
having followed the manager from Charlton.
Ian Beasley (Club Doctor)
Formerly employed by both England and Arsenal, Beasley moved to West Ham in
July 2017 to team up with Slaven Bilic and his revamped backroom team.
The departures follow the news from earlier this month that Moyes and his
entire coaching team of Stuart Pearce, Alan Irvine and Billy McKinley had
left following the expiry of their short-term contracts.
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West Ham thank James Collins for his 'bravery and commitment' as defender
departs after 10 years' service
KEN DYER
ES Sport
West Ham have confirmed the departure of long-serving central defender James
Collins. The former Wales international, who has been at the club for a
total of 10 years in two spells and made 214 appearances, was hoping for a
new one-year contract but posted a picture on Wednesday of himself leaving
the pitch in the final game of last season, with the caption: "It's official
I will be leaving West Ham on June 30th.Heartbroken."
A big favourite with fans, Collins, 35 in August, had limited game time this
season because of injuries and with new manager Manuel Pellegrini wanting to
freshen up his squad, the writing was always going to be on the wall for the
defender. There was some ill-feeling about Collins's departure when it was
suggested he had been informed in an e-mail but the club dispute this,
claiming conversations had taken place with officials but that regulations
mean players not retained have to be informed before the third weekend in
May.
Owners David Sullivan and David Gold said: "We would like to place on record
our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has given West Ham down
the years. "His bravery and commitment were never called into question and
he has played his part in establishing the club in the Premier League since
his return in 2012. "We appreciate just how popular James is among
supporters but with the appointment of a new manager, we felt together the
time was right to go our separate ways."
Former France defender Patrice Evra will also depart when his contract
expires on June 30.
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Manuel Pellegrini to continue David Moyes' discipline demands at West Ham
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport
David Moyes ran a tight ship in his short time as West Ham manager, and
Manuel Pellegrini is likely to follow a similar path. The former Hammers
manager demanded a level of discipline which was non-existent under his
predecessor Slaven Bilic, clashing on occasion with the likes of Michail
Antonio and Andy Carroll over time-keeping and attitude issues. It was
something the Scotsman ranked among his highest priorities, and credited as
a key factor in their Premier League survival after players told him
standards had waned under Bilic. Now former Manchester City manager
Pellegrini has taken the reins. With European football once again the
long-term target at London Stadium, he will demand three core principles
from his squad - both on and off the pitch - when they meet for pre-season.
"Usually, the first few days I'm with the players I tell them how I work
with a group, not just on the pitch but off the pitch, too," Pellegrini
wrote recently for The Coaches' Voice. "For me, there are three things that
are totally non-negotiable with players. "First of all, respect. Respect for
everything: the club, fans, journalists, coaching staff, directors. Respect
among the players themselves, that's very important. "Second is commitment,"
he continued. "I think there are a lot of ways to coach, but you have to get
the commitment of the group to your way of coaching. "And third:
performance. For me, it is not up for negotiation at all. I try to be as
objective as possible. I understand players who aren't playing can't be
happy, but my demands of them have to be exactly the same."
Pellegrini, who spent his first full day as West Ham manager meeting staff
and settling in at the Rush Green training ground, has targeted "four or
five new" signings ahead of his first season and is expected to bring in
Ruben Cousillas as assistant manager to reinforce his mantra.
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Pellegrini eyes seven West Ham signings, including Yaya Toure
HITC
Jordan Harris
A report has outlined how many signings Manuel Pellegrini would like in his
first summer as West Ham United boss. According to a report from The
Telegraph, Manuel Pellegrini is hoping to try and make seven signings during
his first summer as West Ham boss, and would like to bring Yaya Toure to the
London Stadium.
Pellegrini's appointment was confirmed earlier this week, and there was
plenty of excitement that his arrival may be the catalyst for a gradual
ascent up the Premier League table after spending much of David Moyes'
tenure battling to beat the drop. And it appears that Pellegrini has major
plans for the first few months of his tenure, with The Telegraph reporting
that he is eyeing as many as seven additions to the first-team squad during
his first window. And a move for Toure is on his radar. Toure - who has
earned £220,000-a-week at the Etihad Stadium this past season, according to
Spotrac - will soon see his Manchester City contract expire and he will be
able to discuss a free transfer to one of City's Premier League rivals if he
wishes to stay in England. The 35-year-old has worked with Pellegrini
before, and certainly made a devastating impact for City while he was
playing under the Chilean. He scored 36 goals in all competitions during
Pellegrini's first two seasons with the club, including 20 in the top flight
during the 2013/14 campaign which saw the Cityzens win their second Premier
League title. He may prove to be an expensive signing in terms of wages, but
he has to be considered to be one of the finest midfielders from the Premier
League era and will be hoping to prove at his next club that he still has a
lot to offer in the twilight years of his career. And with Pellegrini's
ideal summer appearing to involve landing Toure with another six signings
following him through the door, it appears that it may well prove to be a
very exciting window for the Irons.
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RANGERS SHOULD FORGET LANDING BURKEFeatured Image
Date: 24th May 2018 at 4:34pm
Written by: Wayne Howard
Forever WestHam
Rangers should forget about signing West Ham defender Reece Burke. He is a
promising youngster who has already played 15 times for the Hammers but is
not the answer for the Glasgow giants as they step up plans to reinforce a
defence that was far too porous in the recently completed campaign. Rangers
boss Steven Gerrard and recruitment chief Mark Allen need to set their
sights on battle-hardened warriors who are used to the pressure of
delivering at a big team. There has been speculation of interest in Martin
Skrtel, the ex-Liverpool defender now at Fenerbahce, and he is the kind of
defensive leader they need. In truth, the 54-times champions need three new
centre-backs, as Bruno Alves and Fabio Cardoso are not up to it, David Bates
has quit for Hamburg and Russell Martin has returned to Norwich City.
Rangers already have a rising defensive star in academy graduate Ross
McCrorie, who has all the tools to be an Ibrox defensive star for years,
provided they can keep him away from clubs south of the border.
The Mirror have reported that Gerrard wants to make Burke, who Transfermarkt
report stands at 6ft 2in, his next signing following his impressive campaign
on loan at Championship outfit Bolton Wanderers. Intriguingly, the The Times
claim new Hammers manager Manuel Pellegrini will listen to offers for the
club's academy product. But Rangers should steer clear. Spending big money
on a rookie for their defence would be a terrible mistake.
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WEST HAM IN FOR MAREGAFeatured Image
Date: 24th May 2018 at 3:24pm
Written by: Guy Giles
ForeverWestHam
West Ham United are in the hunt to sign prolific Porto striker Moussa Marega
this summer, according to Correio de Manha. The leading Portuguese
newspaper, as translated by Sport Witness, report that the Hammers are among
three English clubs who are in hot pursuit of the 27-year-old. Correio de
Manha claim that Porto have set an asking price of £26million, which
represents a £9million slash on the striker's release clause of £35million.
The Mali international hitman bagged an impressive 23 goals in all
competitions this season, with eight assists on top of that.
Marega had a massively prolific season for Porto as they waltzed to the
Primeira Liga title, and the 27-year-old looks ready for a step up. His
powerful, pacy play up front seemingly suits the Premier League down to a
tee, and West Ham would do brilliantly to win the race for his signature.
One thing that Marega would need to improve quickly is his hold up play and
discipline, but Manuel Pellegrini should be able to drill those in to him
soon enough. A massive bonus for the Hammers here is the £9million reduction
in price, with £26million far more affordable than the previous £35million
price tag.
Forever West Ham rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like Marega will move on this summer, but his destination is
anyone's guess. Wolves and Aston Villa are the other English sides in the
hunt, and you would think that the Hammers have the financial might to
outmuscle either of those clubs. All that's left now is to wait and see if
the Irons' interest is genuine, which should come to light in the next few
weeks.
Forever West Ham rating: 3/10
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Could Manuel Pellegrini convince Reece Oxford to stay at West Ham United?
HITC
John Verrall
West Ham United defender Reece Oxford has been tipped for an exit this
summer. Manuel Pellegrini may be able to help convince Reece Oxford to stay
at West Ham United, if his comments in his first interview are anything to
go by. West Ham published an interview with their new manager on their
official website, and during it the Chilean boss suggested that he wanted to
give more of the club's academy players a chance. Pellegrini stressed how
important bringing through young players was to him, and that could be music
to Oxford's ears. Pellegrini said: "For me, the young players are very
important. Me and my staff will be there with the young players at the
academy. We are going to try and have the same style of football and always.
"I hope in the three years, we can bring a lot of young players to the
first-team."
If Pellegrini is true to his word, then Oxford could be one of West Ham's
academy graduates who is ready to break into his first-team straight away.
Football.London reported how Oxford was thinking about moving away from West
Ham in search of more regular action. The youngster spent last season out on
loan at Borussia Monchengladbach, and West Ham were reportedly ready to cash
in on him for £18 million. However, Pellegrini's commitment to playing
youngsters could be just what Oxford was wanting to hear. And it may suggest
that the young defender could yet make an impact at the London Stadium next
season.
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MANUEL PELLEGRINI LOOKS TO MAKE EDOUARD MENDY HIS FIRST SIGNING
BEN EMMOTT
readWestHam
Manuel Pellegrini has got his eyes set on signing a goalkeeper as his first
task as West Ham boss. The newly appointed manager is looking to sign Reims
goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The goalkeeper was one of the players of the
season in Ligue 2 as he managed to only concede 22 goals in 34 matches,
racking up an impressive 18 clean sheets. According to the Mirror, the
25-year-old would cost the Hammers around £2 million, which would be cheap
for a keeper who has the potential to get even better. Despite interest from
numerous Championship clubs, Mendy and his team believe he is good enough to
make a name for himself in the Premier League. Joe Hart has returned to
Manchester City after his loan at the London Stadium and Adrian hasn't been
in the best form when he's played for the club, leaving Pellegrini with a
goalkeeping situation on his hands.
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INSIDER RUBBISHES THOMAS REPORTS
Date: 24th May 2018 at 9:37am
Written by: Guy Giles
ForeverWestHam
Reports suggesting Derby youngster Luke Thomas is set to become Manuel
Pellegrini's first signing at West Ham are "not true whatsoever", according
to a club insider. According to Gloucestershire Live the Hammers submitted a
£1.2million bid for the Rams Young Player of the Year, with former club
Cheltenham Town in line to receive a 15% sell-on fee for the 19-year-old.
However, as reported by West Ham site Claret and Hugh, a club source has
said that these claims are well wide of the mark as Pellegrini seeks his
first Irons incoming. The source is quoted as saying this report was "not
true whatsoever" amid this huge development.
OPINION
It had seemed like a deal for Thomas was close between the two clubs, with
reports seemingly adamant that the Hammers had tabled a bid for the
19-year-old. However, this club insider seems to think that is not the case,
and Claret and Hugh are usually spot on with their information. This is not
to say that the Hammers are not interested in Thomas, but they do not seem
to be close to a deal for the youngster. So, the search goes on for
Pellegrini's first signing, and fans will be hoping for a much bigger name
to be Pellegrini's first incoming. The Chilean has spoken about the need to
bring in four or five new players in the coming weeks, with several areas of
the squad needing reinforcements. Defence in particular needs bolstering,
with the Hammers conceding a joint league-high 68 goals in 2017/18, with
midfield also an issue.
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PELLEGRINI AND THE BOARD - A LEAP OF TRUST?
By Blind Hammer 24 May 2018 at 08:00
WTID
Blind Hammer looks at Pellegrini's strategic relationship with the Board
The excitement surrounding Pellegrini's appointment is approaching Messianic
proportions. Sir Trevor Brooking is probably correct to introduce a note of
caution and warn that patience may be required.
Yet some excitement is certainly understandable. Pellegrini is the most high
profile and successful Manager we have ever appointed.
This excitement extends to the Board. From what we hear Pellegrini will have
unprecedented control over Transfer Policy. In his first interview
Pellegrini has already talked of the need to bring in 4-5 players. If this
handover to Pellegrini is genuine it represents a remarkable volte face.
This is in high contrast to their relationship with Allardyce, Bilic and
Moyes. Instead of reserving some control they are leaping into a new level
of trust and confidence.
Whatever the complaints from supporters the numbers of Premier League
Managers who genuinely control transfer policy are vanishingly small.
Wenger's departure from Arsenal makes identifying such Managers even harder.
It is clear, for example, that differences in transfer policy between Conte
and the Chelsea Board is one of the biggest ongoing tensions at Stamford
Bridge. Pochettino has poured pressure on Tottenham by suggesting his
continued management may depend on how well Levy delivers his desired
transfer targets. Pellegrini himself complained of Board interference with
squad recruitment whilst at Real Madrid.
Whilst Madrid recruitment was distorted by their desire to hoover up Global
attacking talent, neglecting more mundane areas, most Boards interfere on
economic grounds.
Supporters rail against their Boards because of perceived penny pinching.
The reality is slightly more complicated. There is also an underlying
structural tension. Football managers come and go with alarming frequency.
West Brom had 3 managers last season. West Ham had 2, as did Crystal Palace,
Southampton, Watford, Stoke, Swansea, and Leicester. West Ham now has their
third Manager in just over 6 months, as will Stoke, Swansea and Everton.
Despite their FA Cup win Chelsea appear keen to make a change. Any logical
analysis of this turnover indicates that allowing unfettered control over
squad development invites problems. Manager A invest vast sums assembling
his squad, only to see it fail. Manager B comes along and has a different
view. He feels it is unbalanced. Both Manager A and Manager B and
potentially even manager C have little interest in investing for the longer
term, given their likely restricted tenure. They instead prioritise players
who can perform immediately. This pressure tends to outweigh concerns about
age and development. So players are recruited by Manager B and possibly
Manager C on top of the players recruited by Manager A. Yet shifting on the
failed earlier player investments may be far harder. The result are bloated
squads with expensively acquired but unsuccessful players. These mistaken
investments, often on high wages can prove difficult, if not impossible to
move on. This problem explains why teams like Sunderland and Aston Villa,
despite spending more than average, still managed to spiral into relegation.
It could be argued that a Board which does not supervise transfer priorities
fail in their duty. The existence of this tension is one of the biggest
motivators for the Director of Football role. Yet if we are to credit the
reports, this caution is precisely what the Board is prepared to jettison
for a make or potentially break new relationship with Pellegrini.
Starting out this new relationship will not be difficult. It is easy now to
express trust and confidence with a Manager of his outstanding record.
However this trust will come under immediate strain if Pellegrini is, for
whatever reason, slow in delivering the sustained improvement we all crave.
Whether the Board will honour their "hands off" approach then is much more
uncertain.
Of course Pellegrini has vast experience of dealing with Boards. Probably
the most difficult was Malaga. Malaga has been quoted as a possible template
for Pellegrini's new West Ham project. Yet this project ended in tears.
Billionaire Oil Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani purchased Malaga in June 2010. He
proceeded to invest millions bringing in top players. To oversee this
investment he recruited Pellegrini in 2011 and allowed £80 million for his
new Manager to recruit stars like Santiago Cazorla and Joris Mathijsen.
Pellegrini duly delivered Champions League qualification for Malaga yet
within a year the club was in what was described as financial meltdown. The
expensively acquired players who had delivered success for Malaga were in
turn then sold on. The reason for this was to "balance the books" and
allegedly comply with FIFA Fair Play regulations. It was reported that the
remaining players and Pellegrini himself were not paid for several months.
Given the depth of Malaga's financial collapse some may question
Pellegrini's financial acumen. Most commentators have though instead
focussed on the reportedly capricious behaviour of Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani
who is alleged to have, in the end, only a paper thin commitment to Malaga.
He is reported to have withdrawn funds because of unhappiness with local
Political factors in the Costa Del sol. In the end the Malaga story probably
warns us of the risks inherent in chasing an illusory pot of gold from an
Oil Rich investor who does not have a history of emotional commitment to a
club.
Pellegrini was probably reassured by the history of Gold and Sullivan's long
term support of West Ham. Whilst having far more limited resources they are
far less likely to pull the more limited resources they can offer.
We will wait to see whether this new trust can be sustained against the
competitive rigours of the most difficult league in the world. It is a
gamble, but for Sullivan, in particular, this is a gamble which he must feel
he has little to risk losing. West Ham could never deliver the millions
other clubs could offer. They could however offer unprecedented trust and
control. This must have attractive Pellegrini. Sullivan must feel the hand
of history judging his stewardship of West Ham. His stewardship has been
blighted by controversy. In probably the boldest decision of his control he
has made a make or break decision which could determine his legacy. It
provides at least a chance for a historic positive heritage. For this to
emerge may require patience from all, not least from all of us as fans.
COYI
David Griffith
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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