Gordon loaned to Nuneaton
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Development Squad striker Jaanai Gordon has joined Vanarama
Conference club Nuneaton Town until 1 May 2015. The 19-year-old recently
returned from a productive loan spell with Vanarama South side Chelmsford
City, where he netted five goals in ten league appearances. Signed from
Peterborough United in December 2013, Gordon made his first-team debut for
the Posh in League One at the age of 16 in September 2012.
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Betway make DT38 pledge
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's principal partners Betway have pledged to give the
winnings of a £250 each-way bet on their sponsored race at Doncaster this
weekend to the DT38 Foundation – should the horse named Lincoln come home
first.
Lincoln is trained by former Southampton striker Mick Channon and Andy
Carroll joined him to make the draw live on At The Races on Thursday as the
Hammers striker teamed up with Betway to help promote the big race.
The Betway Lincoln Handicap will be run on Saturday, with the racehorse of
the same name being drawn in stall number nine. With that matching Carroll's
squad number, Betway have made their generous offer on Lincoln to win.
The race is traditionally the feature event of the first weekend of the turf
flat racing season in Britain and with one horse matching the name of the
race, all eyes will be on the four-year-old, who won on its last two outings
and is currently a 25/1 shot.
With Betway having made the betting pledge on the horse too, Hammers fans
everywhere will be hoping it comes home first to give the newly launched
DT38 Foundation, the charity set up in Dylan Tombides' memory, a cash boost.
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Poyet makes Uruguay U20 bow
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet made his Uruguay U20 debut as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with
France at Clairefontaine on Thursday. The West Ham United midfielder and son
of former Uruguay midfielder Gus appeared in the second half as a
replacement for Mauro Arambarri. The Uruguayan goal was scored by Rodrigo
Amaral. After watching France take on Brazil in Paris on Thursday evening,
the squad will head to Coimbra, where they will take on Uzbekistan U20 on
Sunday 29 March and Portugal U20 on Tuesday 31 March.
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U17s set for Abu Dhabi kick-off
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U17s kick-off their challenge at the Hazza bin Zayed
International Football Tournament in Abu Dhabi on Thursday evening.
The Hammers arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday morning before
training in the desert city of Al-Ain, which is hosting the eight-team
competition.
Led by assistant Academy manager James Rowe and coach Lee Harrison, West Ham
will begin the tournament by taking on Japanese side Kashiwa Reysol at the
Khalifa bin Zayed Stadium on Thursday at 8pm local time (4pm UK time).
West Ham's second match is against Spanish side Espanyol at the same venue
at 8pm on Friday 27 March, with the final group match will see them face the
host club, Al Ain FC, at 7.30pm on Sunday 29 March.
The two group winners will contest the final, while the runners-up in each
group will go through to the third/fourth-place play-off.
Head of Academy Operations Adam Raimes said the squad had got down to work
quickly in a country that the majority of both the players and staff had
never visited previously.
"The squad arrived early on Wednesday morning at 4am into Abu Dhabi
airport," Raimes began. "The squad trained at 8pm in a very pleasant
environment, with the temperature in the early 20s.
"There is a real togetherness around the camp, and the boys have conducted
themselves as you would expect West Ham United Academy players do – in a
professional manner and with respect for both their Club and host country.
"Josh Pask will captain the side with the assistance of vice-captains Tunji
Akinola and Declan Rice. The three of them are leading the way and
motivating the boys.
"The organisers have been fantastic and we are all looking forward to a
successful tournament."
The four other clubs taking part are Internazionale (Italy), Dinamo Zagreb
(Croatia), Al Afriqi (Tunisia) and Al Ahly (Egypt).
Waleed Al Hosani, Member of the Organising Committee, said: "All teams have
various strengths that they bring with them to Al Ain, which we anticipate,
will be beneficial to the tournament as a whole."
Alongside the Hazza bin Zayed International Football Tournament, a festival
of football is being hosted by the UAE's most successful club, Al Ain FC,
including an amateur competition for local clubs and a coaches' clinic
hosted by renowned Dutch coach Raymond Verheijen.
Known locally as Al Zaeem ('The Boss'), Al Ain have won the Arabian Gulf
League trophy eleven times, the H.H. The President's Cup trophy six times,
the UAE FA Cup on three occasions and the Arabian Gulf Cup. Al Ain FC is the
only Emirati club to have won the AFC Champions League, doing so in 2003.
For more information and live updates, follow @HBZstadium on Twitter.
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From the Academy
WHUFc.com
Last weekend was a good example of what working in a Premier League Academy
is like. On Saturday our U16 and U18s played Derby County away. Some of our
regular starters were unavailable through injury, both Jahmal hector-Ingram
and Josh Pask weren't quite fit so we decided to play Idris Kanu, he is only
just 15 years-old. Overall we had a very young team, particularly in defence
where Declan Rice played alongside Tunji Akinola while we had Vashon
Neufville and Jake Eggleton too. Despite losing, I thought we were
excellent. In parts we were very, very good which is very encouraging. No
doubt it will be a good experience for them and they'll learn a lot from it.
The U18s match kicked off at 12 o'clock, straight after that Dave Hunt and I
moved on to Burton to watch Reece Oxford play for England U17s against
Norway. It was a good for win for England, and Reece played very well. On
Monday night he followed that up when England played against Slovenia and he
scored a terrific goal. When you watch him play, you do think 'we've got one
of the best players England have got at that age level, if not the best'.
He's captain, he leads his team and it was a terrific two games for him.
Bearing in that mind that he had just come back from injury, hats off to him
for being able to go straight into the national side and play so well.
As well as Reece, Sam Howes has called up for the England U18 squad for
their two games with Switzerland, which is another great achievement.
Funnily enough, he'll come up against our very own Noha Sylvestre, a very
talented central midfielder, later today. It should be a good game, and I
wish both of them the very best.
On Tuesday we had a group of U17s head off to Dubai for an international
tournament. The Premier League sends one club each year, and this year they
sent us. It's great pedigree for our staff, the players and the Academy as a
whole.
James Rowe, the Assistant Academy Director is taking that group along with
Tom Smith, Lee Harrison and Josh Ewens. It will be a wonderful experience
for everyone, the likes of Josh Pask and Grady Diangana are going as well as
Vashon and some of the other players who we're offering scholarships to.
I think the games will be very tough. Manchester City went there with all
their riches and didn't win a game.
On another note, 15-year-old Anthony Scully was awarded U15 Player of the
Year by
the Republic of Ireland FA a few days ago. It's great for him to be
recognised at national level.
He's actually injured at the moment with a thigh injury so he's out for a
few weeks and he's itching to be back playing. It's a great achievement for
the boy, and funnily enough his dad, Tony Scully, won the same award many
years ago!
All the best,
Terry Westley
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Ginge ready for Wales action
WHUFC.com
West Ham United defender James Collins is ready for a crucial Euro 2016
qualifier for his country this weekend. Wales take on Israel in Haifa on
Saturday looking for the victory that would take them top of Group B and a
step closer to the finals in France. The expansion of UEFA's flagship
tournament for national teams to 24 finalists has given Wales a genuine shot
of qualification for the first time since 1976 and Collins is determined to
take the chance. He said: "I'm looking forward to going away with Wales and
getting another game under my belt. I can't wait, it's a big game, Israel
away is going to be a tough, tough game. If we win we go top of the group.
It looks like we have a fully fit squad so we have a great chance. "The main
aim is to get to France 2016. That started with Speedo's time as manager.
We've started this campaign well, it's a tough group but with the squad
we've got, we know we have every chance." Collins goes into the game on the
back of a victory over Sunderland with the Hammers - one which he believes
was crucial. He added: "We knew that if we kept a clean sheet we had a
chance of winning the game on Saturday. Diafra stuck it in the back of the
net so it was a nice moment. "We knew it was going to be tough with a new
manager coming in, the players will want to impress him and they caught us a
few times in the first half to be fair. With Jermain Defoe playing you know
he's going to be a threat. "Kev and a few other lads said before the game it
doesn't matter how we win, just that we do. It was a bit scrappy but we've
got the ball rolling again. "We want to finish as high as we can and end the
season on a good run of form. The international break gives us a bit of a
break between league games. We want to finish higher than tenth, that was
the aim at the start of the season."
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Academy Ace
WHUFC.com
Joe Powell signs his first professional deal, watched by Academy Manager
Terry Westley and head of Academy recruitment Dave Hunt
One of the highlights of this season was undoubtedly Adrian scoring that
winning penalty against Everton in the FA Cup third-round replay, a game of
high drama that few will forget. However, that night may prove to be just as
memorable for a second reason – the night that Joe Powell signed his first
professional contract at his boyhood club West Ham United.
For those that have not yet had the opportunity to watch the 16-year-old in
action, Powell is a skilful, pacey winger who can deliver a pinpoint cross
at will. Perhaps the best person to describe Powell's style of play is the
man himself: "There wasn't a particular player I wanted to be when I was
growing up but as I grew older I liked the look of David Beckham, I thought
he was really good. "I'd like to think I'm a little bit pacier than Beckham
was. Delivery-wise he's better than me for now, but it's something I'm
targeting!"
Music to the ears for many Hammers fans and the youngster is certainly not
lacking in confidence, but if he comes anywhere near to emulating the
England icon's career, we have a lot to look forward to. While the future
certainly looks to be bright, it is worth taking a look at Powell's
blossoming career to date. "West Ham has always been the club for me. I've
been on trial at a few other clubs but they weren't right. I always knew
being part of the West Ham family suited me. "My whole family is West Ham
mad, I think it's down to the area we come from, we're just born and bred
West Ham fans."
Having joined the Hammers at the age of eight, Powell can remember his very
first match. "It was a long time ago now but I remember it was at the dome
at Chadwell Heath, we won something like 31-7 against Grays. At one point in
the game we had to give our 'keeper to them. I scored a good 12 goals I
reckon, I haven't managed to beat that since!" Another standout moment for
young Powell was meeting Mark Noble.
"On the day I signed at U9 level Mark Noble was there signing a contract as
well. It was a good night. He'd obviously been at the club for a few years,
I'd seen him play so it was special." The name Powell may be familiar to
those who follow the youth team, as his brother Jack also came through the
West Ham Academy and is now at Millwall. "My brother was here at the
Academy, so I was in and around the club since I was about four maybe,"
explained Powell. "He's a big role model for me, we sit down every now and
then and have chats about where he didn't go right. He's always leading me
in the right direction. There's definitely friendly rivalry between us!"
The younger Powell made his debut for the U21s recently and has enjoyed a
run of games for the Development Squad since. "I came on for the last
half-hour against Chelsea. I thought it was mad, the step up in physicality
between U16s and U21s. Technically, I think I've got it in me and I thought
I played well. "Then I made my first start against Southampton away. I knew
my preparation had to be perfect. In the first half I thought I did well
getting on the ball, in the second half it was a little bit more end to end
but it was a good experience."
Reflecting on a busy few months, Powell continued: "Signing my contract was
a very special day for me. It was out on the pitch at Upton Park, the fans
were clapping as soon as walked out, so it was very special. It wasn't a bad
game either was it, beating Everton 9-8 on penalties. "Now, I just to play
football for the club that's in my heart."
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Hall completes Dons move
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th March 2015
By: Staff Writer
Robert Hall has completed an emergency loan move to League One side MK Dons.
As reported earlier on KUMB, Hall - who spent nine years at West Ham before
joining Bolton for a nominal fee in 2013 - has completed a move the the
promotion-chasing side, currently managed by Karl Robinson. The news was
confirmed at 5pm this afternoon by the Dons. "The Dons have signed forward
Rob Hall on an emergency loan deal from Championship side Bolton Wanderers,"
read a brief statement. "The 21-year-old, who joins just minutes before the
close of the loan window, will remain at stadium MK until the end of the
2014/15 season, inclusive of the play-offs. "Hall has spent the 2014/15
campaign balancing his playing time between Neil Lennon's first team and
Bolton's development squad, but will now be looking to help the Dons with
their push for promotion in League 1." Hall's spell at Stadium MK will be
the second for the 21-year-old who previously spent two months on loan with
the Dons back in 2012 whilst still a West Ham player.
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James Collins and Chris Coleman make up after Wales spat
Last Updated: 26/03/15 3:01pm
SSN
Manager Chris Coleman has revealed the background behind his reunion with
James Collins in a Cardiff coffee shop. Coleman and Collins engaged in a war
of words after the West Ham defender reportedly refused to be called up off
the stand-by list for their game with Serbia in 2013. Collins denied that,
with Coleman hinting that his time as an international player was over
before they eventually got together for a public meeting to clear the air.
With James Chester out due to a dislocated shoulder, Collins is set to
partner Ashley Williams in their European Qualifier against Israel, and
Coleman is glad to have him available after their fall-out. Coleman said:
"I'm glad we had that coffee together. We made sure we had it in the middle
of the hotel so it didn't kick off between us and we could stay civil with
the number of people around us. "But it's great that he is with us and I
think that perhaps what happened has helped him value playing for Wales even
more. I'm glad we had that coffee together. We made sure we had it in the
middle of the hotel so it didn't kick off between us and we could stay civil
with the number of people around us. "We had our spat, but I have known him
since he was a kid and always liked him and when he has been with us he has
been right in the middle of everything. His presence and personality are
going to be very important going forward. "He has had to wait for his chance
but this is an opportunity for him. He was brilliant in the last camp, as
were Danny Gabbidon and Sam Ricketts, who did not play but were great round
the dressing room in Brussels. "That is great for the younger guys because
it is good to have advice from senior players. 'Ginge' likes the challenge
and the atmosphere we will find ourselves in and it will be a dog-fight,
which he enjoys."
Coleman also played down security concerns ahead of Wales' first trip to
Israel since the two countries met in a play-off qualifier for the 1958
World Cup in Sweden. Israel have a game in hand on Wales as their fixture
with Belgium was postponed last September because of the political situation
in the Middle East, but that match will now be played next Tuesday. "We have
not got any extra security to my knowledge," Coleman said. "I did the
journey from the airport to the hotel when I was out there last month and we
will treat it like any other game. "We know a lot is going on in certain
quarters but there are no worries, there are no extra precautions that we
would not usually take."
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WHO IS YOUR HOTY?
By Tony Hanna 26 Mar 2015 at 13:31
West Ham till I DIe
With all due respect to Scott Parker and Mark Noble, in recent seasons the
Hammer of the Year award has been an almost foregone conclusion with little
to no competition to the eventual winner. Between them they have won five of
the last six awards and their never say die attitude has gone a long way to
them being unopposed in their respective seasons. With eight games still to
go this season it may be a little early to try and pick this seasons winner
but what the heck, it is an International break isn't it?
What a reflection on this season though? We can look at least six players
this season who have a very decent shout of being this seasons HOTY. Whilst
we have Sam lovers and Sam haters, it is refreshing to have so many worthy
candidates. Perhaps this season has not been so bad after all? Let's have a
look at the players I think most would agree to being the contenders this
season.
Aaron Cresswell has been a revelation at left back this season and is
proving to be one of the buys of the season. It is no wonder Ipswich fans
were so full of praise for him and so sorry to lose him. Ever present this
season, his attacking raids from full back have earned rave reviews and he
has adorned himself to the fans. He has been most consistent although he can
be vulnerable in defence especially in the air. For mine he has not been
used to full effect at set pieces but he has to be one of the favourites to
win the award this season.
Diafra Sakho our leading goal scorer this season got off to a cracking
start. His record equalling six goals in successive games earned him the
Premier League player of the month in October. His trademark crossed arms
Hammer salute goal celebration and the fact he cried when he thought he had
missed his chance to join the club have made him a crowd favourite. For a
forward his work rate is outstanding although his decision making at times
shows he still has a lot to learn in the top flight. What a find though and
to think he was playing in the French second tier last season? Another
outstanding chance to win the HOTY.
Cheikhou Kouyate was a more high profile player arriving at Upton Park this
season. Signed from Anderlecht he has been most adaptable, playing in
different midfield roles and at centre back when required. The player is
total class and his work rate is outstanding. When he plays in his preferred
midfield role he glues the side together. A couple of knocks, the African
Cup and the need to help out at centre back has unfortunately made it a bit
of a stop start season for him, but his class is always there to see.
Adrian has really grown in stature this season and has probably become the
fans favourite for the passion he shows. He has had a fine season and who
could forget his gloves off approach to the winning penalty against Everton?
Still a bit suspect at coming for a cross, his rapport with the fans could
just get him over the line.
Other contenders would include Enner Valencia, Alex Song and Stewart Downing
if all their form had not tailed off in recent months. However, with eight
games still to go it is not too late for any of them to come into contention
again. Song in particular was head and shoulders above any other player
prior to Xmas and a return to form could put him back in with a shout.
Downing's early season form got him an England call up only to be played out
of position. The wait for Andy Carroll to return was well worth it with a
flurry of goals and top performances. Alas, you have to play more games than
Andy does to be in with a chance.
The best roughie for me would be James Collins just for his die hard
attitude on the pitch. Forever putting everything on the line he is not
always Sam's pick at centre half. He would be mine every time. Carl
Jenkinson and James Tomkins have also had excellent seasons. Last but not
least we have the players who have won the award the past two seasons. Mark
Noble and Winston Reid. It has not been a bad season has it when these two
past winners are probably outsiders at best?
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DG: Reid to make international decision
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Winston Reid will decide on his fitness for New Zealand's game against New
Zealand next Tuesday afternoon. Whilst the Hammers want the Kiwi defender to
stay in England and get himself 100 per cent fit for the match against
Leicester City next weekend, they won't stand in his way if he decides he's
fit for international duty. Co chairman David Gold told ClaretandHugh: The
players know their own bodies best and it's their decision. If Winston says
he's fit to go then it's his decision. "I believe there may still be a
little soreness and the whole aim is to have him in the back four for the
match against City. "He will know and as a professional we trust him
entirely to make his own decision."
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Maiga mess ahead of Hammers!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's hopes of offloading Modibo Maiga to Metz permanently look dead.
With the French club bottom of League 1 the chances of a deal being done for
the striker are as unlikely as it gets leaving the board with a big dilemma.
Having scored just six goals in 38 appearances for the Hammers, the forward
has managed four in 17 games with his loan club – hardly eye-catching stuff.
And his near certain return to Upton Park will be a sharp reminder of life
before the new policy of more board control over signings with the Davids
being forced to offer him a pay-off.
The 27 year old is on £40k a week – or £2 million a year – and before
leaving for Metz was offered an Irons pay-off of around £2.5 million which
he turned down.
A Hammers source repeated today that an offer was likely to be made to the
Mali-born forward telling ClaretandHugh: "We'll try to get something done
but he's a strong willed boy and turned down everything we offered last
time."
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Song talks are on the cards
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are still keen to talk with Barcelona and Alex Song about the
possibility of a permanent move to the club. Whilst there has been
disappointment at the player's loss of form since Christmas, the owners
remain keen to retain his services on the right terms. The player is
currently on a wage of £70k a week and that will have to be carefully
balanced against Barca's required fee but that could be lower than expected
as the club are keen to unload.
Some reports this morning claim that the club has cooled on a deal but
ClaretandHugh was told: "That's not the case. He is a top player and a loss
of form is more noticeable in the case of such guys. And he quipped: "It
doesn't hurt the case when we come to discuss figures and deals. I'd imagine
talks will start with Barca a couple of games before the end of the season."
Song has yet to make his own end of season position clear although he has
regularly claimed that a permanent stay is quite possible.
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Injury update: Hopes high for Reid/Valencia
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
All our injured players are making decent progress and so successful was
James Tomkins' surgery on a dislocated left shoulder that there are hopes he
may even be back before the end of the season. However Doneil Henry has what
is described by Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke as a
"complicated hamstring problem" which has also seen him undergo surgery
which is set to see him start back for pre-season training in July.
Vandenbroucke told the official site that Winston Reid was rehabbing well
from a hamstring injury and it is a priority to have him ready to face
Leicester City after the international break.
Meanwhile, Andy Carroll is now moving without the need for crutches or a
brace on his knee and is working in the swimming pool and on the static
bike.
Vandenbroucke explained that Tuesday was the first day in his "rehab
protocol" that we were able to work on the bike and did some exercises in
the pool.
Enner Valencia is healing well after he lacerated his big toe on 10 March
and is building up his training with the aim of being available for the
Leicester game.
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Friday, March 27
Thursday, March 26
Daily WHUFC News - 16th March 2015
International Preview
WHUFC.com
Eight West Ham players are involved in international matches in the coming days. Here's a look ahead to those games.
Thursday 26 March
England U17s' final game of three UEFA U17 Championship Elite Round qualifiers culminates in a game against Romania at 7pm. Following his goal against Slovenia, Captain Reece Oxford will want to round off an impressive few games since returning to action following a return to injury.
The U18s' first of two games against Switzerland sees West Ham United goalkeeper Sam Howes come up against teammate Noha Sylvestre. Both youngsters have been in fine form for West Ham United's U18s making 19 and 20 appearances respectively. Kick off is 3pm.
Friday 27 March
On Friday evening, the England U21s are in action against the Czech Republic. The match could see Carl Jenkinson return to international duty since his last outing against Sweden in 4-2 defeat November 2012.
Saturday 28 March
James Collins' Wales travel to play Israel in Group B of the European Championship Qualifying. Having got off to a great start, Wales are unbeaten after four games, with eight games in total. Israel currently top the group with nine points.
On a busy day of football, Cheikhou Kouyate's Senegal are set to play Ghana in a friendly, kick off is scheduled for 7.45pm local time.
The U18s face a quick turnaround between games as they host the Swiss again, little more than 48 hours after the first game. Kick off comes from 5.30pm.
Josh Cullen is in international action as the Irish U19 travel to play their German counterparts at the hardwaldstadion in Sandhausen. Kick off in the Under-19 Championship Elite Round is 12pm local time, 11am GMT.
Monday 30 March 2015
The U21s second game of the international break is a grudge match with arch rivals Germany at Middlesborough's Riverside stadium.
Speaking ahead of the match, which promises to be a high quality yet hard-fought affair, Jenkinson said: "It's always an honour playing for England, at any level. I'm really looking forward to it, it keeps me ticking over during the international break. It's nice to play a couple games and keep my fitness up. I'll be raring to go against Leicester."
In the qualification rounds we played against some easier teams as such but now we're playing against the big boys. It will be a good test for us to see what we're all about."
"The game against Germany is the one that stands out, it should be a great game. It's one I'm certainly looking forward to."
The match is broadcast live on BT Sport 1, with the programme starting at 7.30pm.
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Maguire earns Ireland U21 call
WHUFC.com
Sean Maguire has spoken of his pride at being called up to the Republic of Ireland U21 squad. The young Hammer, who is currently on loan at Sky Bet League Two side Accrington Stanley, is in Noel King's U21 squad for the first time, having previously won three caps at U19 level. Ireland are taking on Andorra in their first 2017 UEFA U21 Championship qualifier on Thursday evening at Waterford United - the club Maguire signed for the Hammers from in 2013. The 20-year-old has scored five goas in 25 league games for Stanley this season and is thrilled to have been given the opportunity to shine on the international stage. "I'm delighted to be called up," he said. "It's an honour to be recognised by your country & I hope I'll get the chance to play. "First team football at Accrington has made a huge difference to me this season & I'm grateful to everyone at the club for the opportunity. "To get an international call up after a great time playing regularly this season is just fantastic."
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Cullen's dual debut aim
WHUFC.com
It is an exciting time to be Josh Cullen. The promising midfielder was named on the West Ham United bench for the first time for the recent Barclays Premier League fixture at Arsenal. This week, the 18-year-old midfielder is set to make his competitive international debut for Republic of Ireland in the European U19 Championship Elite Round. For Cullen, the prospect of facing mini-group hosts Germany, Slovakia and Czech Republic – starting on Thursday 26 March – for a place at this summer's finals in Greece is one he is relishing.
"It's a good standard of football and the group we are in is a very competitive one," the No39 began. "Germany are one of the countries that everybody is looking up to at the moment, while Slovakia are actually considered to be the favourites. "It's going to be a great test but we believe in ourselves as a team. Only one team goes through, which makes it even tougher, so we have got to be on our game.
"It's a great experience to play against good teams like Germany, but we have beaten Holland and Sweden this year so we believe in ourselves and we want to go as far as we can.
For Cullen, who was born and raised in Essex but has Irish ancestry, representing Ireland is special to him and his family. "International football is a different experience than club football. At West Ham, we train and play and generally go home afterwards, but with Ireland we are in a hotel for eleven or 12 days and it's a great experience. "I am proud to be playing for Ireland and making my family proud at the same time. I missed the Euro U17s and the first set of U19 qualifiers through injury, so I am looking forward to make my first competitive appearance."
Back at West Ham, Cullen is training regularly with Sam Allardyce's first-team squad as he pushes for his first senior appearance in Claret and Blue. With the likes of Mark Noble, Alex Song, Cheikhou Kouyate and Kevin Nolan also at the Club, the teenager knows he may have to be patient, but that will not stop him giving his all every single day. I am a West Ham fan, so I want to see the first team doing well and the Club doing well Having got into the matchday 18 at the Emirates, Cullen is keen for more opportunities to impress. "It's something you grow up dreaming of, so to be involved in a Premier League game as a West Ham fan is great. The next step for me is to carry on working hard and to get my debut. "Being involved somewhere like the Emirates made it more memorable because it is a magnificent stadium with a pitch like a carpet and the facilities there are on a different level. "I don't feel out of place when I train with the first-team squad so I just need to keep working hard to improve my game to get to first-team standard. "I have played U18 and U21 football over the last season and a half, so now it's about playing more U21 football and trying to stand out at that level to push myself into the first-team squad or go out on loan and get some first-team experience. "So, by doing the best I can and continuing to work hard, hopefully those chances will come."
Whether he makes his debut before the current season is out or not, Cullen is happy to be part of an improving West Ham squad – one which looks on course to finish in the top half of the Barclays Premier League for the second time in three seasons. "I am a West Ham fan, so I want to see the first team doing well and the Club doing well. We do have a quite a few players in my position, so it's tough to see a way through, but at the same time it is a privilege and a challenge to work with the players I watched before I got anywhere near this standard. "Now I am closer to it than ever before, I need to take any little chance that I get. "The feedback I have had from the coaches gives me confidence and if I can take what I have done in training into games then hopefully I can break through into the West Ham first team. That's the aim."
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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Hello everyone,
We will start this week's round-up with news of two positive surgeries for James Tomkins and Doneil Henry. James Tomkins had successful surgery on his dislocated left shoulder and the first signs following the operation are good. We aim for him to be back before the end of the 2014/15 season.
Doneil had a complicated hamstring problem which he suffered while on loan for Blackburn Rovers. This injury was treated with a successful operation and we are looking at him being back for the start of pre-season training in July.
Winston Reid continues to rehab well from the hamstring injury he suffered in the home game against Chelsea on 4 March and it is our priority to have him ready to face Leicester City after the international break.
Andy Carroll has entered the next phase of his rehabilitation following surgery on the knee he injured at Southampton on 11 February.
We are now in week six of Andy's rehab and he is now moving without the need for crutches or a brace on his knee. He is working in the swimming pool and on the static bike.
Tuesday was the first day in his rehab protocol that we were able to work on the bike and did some exercises in the pool.
With Enner Valencia, we have seen a specialist again and he is healing well after he lacerated his big toe on 10 March. Enner was unable to go away on international duty with Ecuador, but now he is building up his training with the aim of being available for the Leicester game.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
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Lee extends Luton loan
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee has extended his loan spell with League Two club Luton Town until the end of the season. The West Ham United striker has netted three goals in six games for the Hatters, including a brace in Tuesday's 3-2 home defeat by Wycombe Wanderers. He will now remain with Luton until 2 May, and longer should John Still's men reach the League Two Play-Offs. Lee marked his opening goal on Tuesday by paying tribute to his late friend and Hammers strike partner Dylan Tombides, who passed away in April 2014 following a three-year battle with cancer. The 20-year-old lifted his shirt to show a T-shirt with the words 'FOR YOU DYL. GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN' and a photo of the popular Australian forward. "I was delighted to do that for Dyl," said Lee of his tribute, which was seen by thousands of viewers watching the match live on Sky Sports. "Being on the Sky cameras I thought it was a great stage to honour my good mate who sadly passed away nearly a year to the day, so I'm really happy I could have done that for him."
The gesture was all the more poignant the Hatters had joined forces with The Football League's Official Charity Partner, Prostate Cancer UK, to rename their Kenilworth Road home The Prostate Cancer UK Stadium for the Wycombe fixture. Speaking about the personal significance of Luton's unique charity initiative, Lee revealed that his grandfather had undergone surgery for prostate cancer "It's massive," he continued. "On a personal level, my granddad had prostate cancer. He had surgery to get it removed and I did Movember for him. He's fully recovered now. "It hit the family hard but the family stuck together and it's great to see him fighting fit again. My granddad is always in high spirits and the surgery was brilliant and he's brilliant again now." "He [is on holiday in China at the moment but] knew about it and he was really proud I think. It was a great thing for the club to do. I got him two [goals], so I think he'll be happy."
Luton, Lee and Prostate Cancer UK all became trending topics on Twitter during Tuesday's game, while the Hatters' decision to rename their stadium to help raise awareness of a disease that kills one man every hour in the UK drew widespread praise. "It's great for everyone to get involved," Lee added. "We should be aware of the cause and I think it was really good to name the stadium what it was and I think it went down well with everyone. "It's a brilliant cause and it should be highlighted. There is no better stage than on TV and a big game like Luton against Wycombe. I think it was a really good gesture."
West Ham themselves recently helped to launch the DT38 Foundation in memory of the late Academy starlet. Dylan, whose prodigious talents saw him sign for West Ham in 2008, lost his brave three-year battle with testicular cancer in April 2014, at the age of just 20. A hugely popular figure among his team-mates, coaches, backroom staff, supporters and opponents alike, the Australia U22 international was loved and respected throughout the football community for his talent, his smile and his spirit. Dylan's considerable legacy will now to be channelled through DT38, a new Foundation which is setting out to provide testicular cancer support and awareness through education and opportunity. DT38 became the Club's second official charity for the 2014/15 campaign, alongside the West Ham United Moore Family Foundation.
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Lycamobile extend Hammers partnership
KUMB.com
West Ham United have announced that Lycamobile, the largest global provider of low-cost international mobile calls, will continue as the Club's Official Partner for the next three years.
To mark the launch of the new partnership, Joint-Chairman David Gold, and players Mark Noble, Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid hosted Lycamobile global MVNOs Chairman Subaskaran Allirajah on a tour of the Club's new Stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Lycamobile has been an official partner of the Club since the 2012/13 campaign and the renewal sees the deal extend to include the first two seasons in the new Stadium.
Founded in 2006, Lycamobile provides low-cost, high-quality data and voice services to over 12 million customers across 18 countries. Its sheer span, focus on customer service and innovative business strategy has seen it outgrow its competitor set; achieving greater coverage of the European population than any other network operator.
Its partnership with the Hammers has seen it host the Lycamobile Cup at the Boleyn Ground, allowing local youngsters the opportunity of a lifetime to play on the hallowed turf, following in the famous footsteps of their Hammers heroes, as well as launching the co-branded Hammers SIM, which raised funds for the Club's Foundation.
Commenting on the new deal, West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold said: "We are delighted to be extending our partnership with Lycamobile for the next three years. They will be joining us on the exciting journey from the Boleyn Ground to our fantastic new Stadium in Stratford, building on the great success we have already enjoyed in the three years we have worked together."
Subaskaran Allirajah, Chairman of Lycamobile said, "We are so incredibly proud to be part of the West Ham success story, to extend our partnership for a further three seasons, and see this great club take its well-deserved place in this iconic ground, home of the 2012 Olympic Games."
As well as sponsorship of West Ham United Football Club, Lycamobile proudly supports the West Ham Foundation as part of its mission to bring communities together. www.lycamobile.com
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Diafra Sakho: West Ham striker says FA proposals are 'an excuse'
By Shamoon Hafez
BBC Sport
English football's failings should not be blamed on the number of foreign players in the Premier League, says West Ham's Diafra Sakho.
Football Association chairman Greg Dyke has outlined plans to restrict non-EU players coming into the English game. And England defender Phil Jagielka has backed the quality of English players coming through the system. But Senegal striker Sakho told BBC Sport: "Everyone can make their own excuses to defend their own interests."
The former Ligue 1 player added: "France won the World Cup in 1998 and the French league was full of foreigners, same with Spain who won the World Cup and Euros, and Germany too. "I don't see why we should shut the door on new talent coming over." Sakho, 25, joined West Ham from Metz on a four-year deal in the summer and has become an integral part of Sam Allardyce's side, scoring 12 goals in all competitions.
He has followed a rich tradition of African players succeeding in the Premier League, with the likes of Ivorians Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure both winning several trophies with Chelsea and Manchester City. "We have seen many African players do well here so it would make things difficult for them," Sakho said. "The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world, one which all young players dream of playing in."
Defender Winston Reid moved to Upton Park from Danish side Midtjylland in 2010 and won West Ham's player of the year award in 2012-13.
The New Zealander suggests the pressure for clubs to succeed force them to look for players away from these shores. "The Premier League now is a massive business for football clubs," he said at an event for Lycamobile and the West Ham Foundation. "They might not be playing young players but buying better players from abroad. "It would be unfortunate if some of my peers weren't given the chance to do the same as me. There are a lot of good foreign players here." In Europe this season, no Premier League side progressed into the quarter-finals of the Champions League or Europa League.
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Winston Reid committed to pushing West Ham into Premier League's top four
Last Updated: 25/03/15 6:28pm
SSN
Defender Winston Reid has revealed he signed a new long-term deal with West Ham because he is committed to seeing the club reach the top four. Reid has signed a new six-and-half-year contract with the Hammers, which is reportedly valued at £60,000 per week, after being linked with possible moves to Arsenal and Tottenham. The 26-year-old says he is "committed" to his future at West Ham and sees the club pushing their way up the Premier League table "It did strike me to move to another place, but my family and I wanted to stay here," Reid told The Sun. "I figured out what I wanted to do with my career and that's be part of the place here and help the club to improve. "It won't take only one or two years - it might be after I finish that the club gets into the top six or top four."
West Ham currently sit in ninth place in the Premier League table and are hoping to finish the season with their best points return yet.
"It's unfortunate that us as a team in the last couple of months, we haven't been functioning at 100 per cent compared to the beginning of the year," Reid said. "We're looking to finish strong and not let the season fade away." Reid is currently in a race against time to overcome a hamstring injury to be fit for New Zealand's international match against South Korea this weekend. But the Hammers expect the Kiwi back in time to travel with the squad to Leicester on April 4 after the international break. Ecuador forward Enner Valencia, meanwhile, has seen a specialist again and is healing well after he lacerated his big toe on March 10. "Enner was unable to go away on international duty with Ecuador, but now he is building up his training with the aim of being available for the Leicester game," said Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke.
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Lee staying with Luton
Luton have extended the loan stay of West Ham striker Elliot Lee until the end of the season.
Last Updated: 25/03/15 2:30pm
SSN
Luton have extended the loan stay of West Ham striker Elliot Lee until the end of the season. The 20-year-old grabbed two goals in Monday night's televised defeat to Wycombe to make it three goals in four starts since being borrowed from Upton Park. "Elliot's been fantastic for us since joining and we're thrilled we'll have him for the rest of this season," boss John Still told the club's official website.
"He's getting fitter all the time and I think that sharpness has been there for all to see in our past two matches." Lee added: "I've enjoyed my short time with the club, the lads and the fans are fantastic. Our goal is to win promotion and that's what I want to help us achieve between now and the end of the season." Lee, who has a 24-hour recall clause in his deal, previously spent loan spells with Colchester and Southend.
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THE MEN IN BLACK
By Tony Hanna 25 Mar 2015 at 08:00
West Ham till I Die
What do tennis, rugby union, rugby league and cricket have that we don't? A video review of the most important decisions that affect a game of course, well apart from goal line technology which is in its infancy. The refereeing in the Premier League has been so bad this season that some are even alluding to the possibility of refs deliberately making a few hashes so as to heighten the need for video help. I find this assumption ridiculous at best but at least it highlights just how bad the referees have been. And it is getting worse. More than once this season the wrong player has been sent off in cases of misidentity.
Now, let's have a look at the Premier League. Here we have a competition where the TV rights have escalated to over 5 billion pounds for the next three seasons and on average each game has a World viewing audience of over twelve million. We have matches comprising of twenty two of the finest and fastest athletes available and they play for an hour and a half with a fifteen minute break. These fit young men also practise falling over at the slightest of touches and if the ref does not give them what they want he and his team mates are allowed to surround him, point fingers and shout at him. He probably can't hear much of what they are screaming as the 40,000 crowd that sit just a few yards away are hurling abuse at him and have started to chant "you don't know what you are doing"! They are also questioning his parentage. The TV cameras have by now played twenty eight replays from 108 different angles and the whole place is going manic. Who is this ref, this man in black? Who is this balding, rotund 48 year old that has wires spouting from every orifice and carries around a can of foam? Often he was the young kid at school, you know the one, the one that loved to play football in the play ground but was never good enough to make the school team. He was the kid that decided "better become a referee if I can't play".
Now perhaps I am being a bit unfair? These men in black are remarkably fit for their age and know the rules of the game much better than the fans watching and indeed the pundits in the TV box. But come on! When are we going to realise that the speed of the game has passed these poor fellows by? Not to mention the so called professionalism of some of the tactics employed by shrewd coaches trying to con him. They need a hand. Every mistake they make is scrutinised by the video replays, the very replays that could help them make the right decisions!
One of the perceived downsides of allowing a referee or a 4th official the luxury of these replays is that it will slow the game down. My view is I would not care providing we get the right decision and it was only used for the major decisions where a referee requires assistance. My view is also that if we cut out the surrounding of referees by players waving imaginary cards at them, it might help speed the game up sufficiently to make up for any said video review. And don't get me started on players rolling around on the ground, taking the ball into the corner post and all other forms of time wasting. The surrounding of the refs will stop, as will the need for a 4th official trying to contain an irate manager on the sideline if everyone knew "we were going upstairs" for clarification. If ever the video ref does come into play in our game it will still not be perfect. There will be the odd mistakes made as it will still be a human being that officiates them. But it will be a whole lot better than what we are enduring at the moment. Or will we miss our favourite post match pastime too much? You know, the right to moan after the game to everyone and anybody that will listen, that we were robbed again?
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West Ham striker Diafra Sakho says England always "making excuses" over national team failings
18:15, 25 March 2015 By Hamish Mackay
The Senegal forward slammed suggestions that foreign players in the Premier League are damaging the England national team
The Mirror
Diafra Sakho has dismissed suggestions that England perform poorly on the international stage because of foreign players in the Premier League. Football Association chairman Greg Dyke is one of many people to have made such a claim, saying the presence of foreign players restricts the opportunities for young English talent. Dyke has even announced plans to restrict the number of non-EU players in the top flight. West Ham striker Sakho, though, says the FA are just making excuses. "Everyone can make their own excuses to defend their own interests," Sakho told BBC Sport. "France won the World Cup in 1998 and the French league was full of foreigners, same with Spain who won the World Cup and Euros, and Germany too. "I don't see why we should shut the door on new talent coming over." The Senegal striker said footballers throughout the world dream of playing in the Premier League and plans to restrict their presence would punish them unfairly.
He said: "The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world, one which all young players dream of playing in. It would be unfortunate if some of my peers weren't given the chance to do the same as me. There are a lot of good foreign players here."
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Irons scout Turk
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United are this afternoon being linked with Fenerbache goalkeeper Mert Günok. If Turkish newspaper Fanatik is to be believed, the Irons have been tracking the stopper on several occasions this season. A Hammers source told ClaretandHugh: "We are tracking up to 50 players at any one time. It's too early to talk in terms of contracts. However, the report goes on to say the we are ready to offer the player a deal as we hunt for a replacement No 2 to Jussi Jaaskalainen. Günok is free to enter direct talks with other clubs due to his contract set to run out at the end of the season. The Turkish international is currently second choice keeper at the Turkish club behind international Volkan Demirel.
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It's 'sack Sam season' so does he stay or go?
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Just eight games left and the big question remains! It is not – as it should be – about how many points the team collect but whether Sam Allardyce will remain in charge at the end of them! It's a terrible shame that the division which exists between the fans over the manager has now become part of the West Ham culture – an inevitable discussion point every season. This time of course, it's different. His contract is up in June, there's no compensation to pay and its a case of whether the Davids have had enough of him or whether they are ready to invest another two years in his style of management because believe me he won't take one year rolling deals.
He knows he can do better than that elsewhere. The hysteria which surrounds the Sam issue – and we at ClaretandHugh readily admit we have been caught up in at times – has been dreadful. The division itself is a massive problem as blogged on here recently by Rich Sprent.
This club's fanbase are at each other's throats all day every day and that is one reason why maybe the 60 year old will have to go.
David-Sullivan-001His supporters will stress over and over again that he doesn't deserve to be binned, because he has done everything asked of him. Nobody can argue with that but there remains one big flaw in the argument and that is that the requirements have changed.
The club has decided it really does need to start winning things and Sam isn't noted for that – indeed he has never won anything.
There are other underlying issues at the club which are creating obvious conflicts with a David Sullivan announcement before Christmas making his position towards Sam very clear indeed. He said: 'The longer you are in the game and the longer you've had the manager, you get involved more and more because when you see your money wasted year after year, you think "I could do as good as that. modibomaigaIt gets even stronger with him adding: 'And you really can, you know. I know that sounds daft but if you've had 20 years of buying players, seeing money spent, they're not geniuses.' He stopped short of mentioning Modibo Maiga and Alou Diarra but the point was clearly made!
Last summer they did something about that by becoming far more hands on in the market place and were highly successful with the arrival of such as Cresswell, Valencia and Sakho arriving – all as a result of the board's drive for more attacking football.
Much has been made of the brilliant performances against such as City, United, Liverpool, Spurs and Chelsea. The board may well take the view that was because of their determination to ensure that things changed on the field and their insistence on an attacking coach. Sam Allardyce's ensures that wherever he works there is no director of football involved. He actually has one now in all but name – David Sullivan advised by his new recruitment of director to the board, Tony Henry. Those two are calling the shots more and more and whether such a tension is maintainable for another two years has to be doubtful in the extreme. So will there be a change of manager?
My personal view is that it looks an inevitability. Who that somebody will be remains a vexed question and we will all hold a different view. I just pray to God it's somebody who can reunited a fan base desperately weary of all the ghastly infighting!
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Poyet loan hopes hit
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Diego Poyet is very unlikely to be send out on loan before Thursday's deadline! The 19 year old has made just seven appearances this season – two as a Huddersfield loan player – but the club are reluctant to let him out to get some much needed football. The former Charlton starlet has been told that in the light on recent injuries he will be needed at the club as a cover player. We were told: "Sadly for Diego the club's injury situation dictates that we have to err on the side of caution – it's very unlikely he will be allowed out because of that."
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England call-up fades and dies again
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It comes up every international break and is no closer to resolution that it was last time around – the 'Mark Noble for England debate.' As you may expect, the newspapers describe it as the Hammers midfielder "refusing to give up on his dream" which makes it sound a bit like an X-Factor audition! There was a moment when the 27 year old was apparently considering offering his services to Ireland – presumably in the basis of one of his relatives visiting Dublin or Belfast on one occasion – I jest! That of course hasn't happened and yesterday was again making it clear where his heart really lies. Mark Noble is refusing to give up on his dream of breaking into the England squad ahead of the European Championship Finals despite being overlooked once again by Roy Hodgson. He has already represented England at every level from the Under 16s to the Under 19s and was even made captain of the Under 21s team for the Euro Finals in 2009.
But that elusive first team call-up eludes him, overlooked on this occasion whilst inexperienced Spurs midfielder Ryan Mason is included the forthcoming games against Lithuania and Italy after Adam Lallana was forced to pull out. Noble said: 'I have made it clear what I think about the situation and I would love to play for my country. But obviously at the moment it doesn't look like it is going to happen. 'I will keep playing as well as I can at West Ham and enjoying it every week. You never know what will happen in the future."
It's all pretty simple from where we are sitting – Roy Hodgson doesn't fancy him – end of story!
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Collins: "I'm doing alright"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
James Collins is delighted with his form despite suffering a few niggles from a number of injury problems. The 31 year old central defender has been massive for the Hammers over recent games and drew a special comment from David Sullivan after Saturday's win against Sunderland. As we reported yesterday the Welshman – now away in international duty is our "dark outsider" as Hammer of the Year with the co chairman claiming of his latest performance: "He was outstanding." Collins and partner Cheik Kouyate partnered him at the back and Collins said: "I'm doing alright. I have struggled a little bit with some niggles, but I am over that now. Of Kouyate, he said: "He is so experienced and has played there so many times for his country so he knows what he is doing. "He has a lack of English, but he is still very vocal on the pitch which is always good."
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WHUFC.com
Eight West Ham players are involved in international matches in the coming days. Here's a look ahead to those games.
Thursday 26 March
England U17s' final game of three UEFA U17 Championship Elite Round qualifiers culminates in a game against Romania at 7pm. Following his goal against Slovenia, Captain Reece Oxford will want to round off an impressive few games since returning to action following a return to injury.
The U18s' first of two games against Switzerland sees West Ham United goalkeeper Sam Howes come up against teammate Noha Sylvestre. Both youngsters have been in fine form for West Ham United's U18s making 19 and 20 appearances respectively. Kick off is 3pm.
Friday 27 March
On Friday evening, the England U21s are in action against the Czech Republic. The match could see Carl Jenkinson return to international duty since his last outing against Sweden in 4-2 defeat November 2012.
Saturday 28 March
James Collins' Wales travel to play Israel in Group B of the European Championship Qualifying. Having got off to a great start, Wales are unbeaten after four games, with eight games in total. Israel currently top the group with nine points.
On a busy day of football, Cheikhou Kouyate's Senegal are set to play Ghana in a friendly, kick off is scheduled for 7.45pm local time.
The U18s face a quick turnaround between games as they host the Swiss again, little more than 48 hours after the first game. Kick off comes from 5.30pm.
Josh Cullen is in international action as the Irish U19 travel to play their German counterparts at the hardwaldstadion in Sandhausen. Kick off in the Under-19 Championship Elite Round is 12pm local time, 11am GMT.
Monday 30 March 2015
The U21s second game of the international break is a grudge match with arch rivals Germany at Middlesborough's Riverside stadium.
Speaking ahead of the match, which promises to be a high quality yet hard-fought affair, Jenkinson said: "It's always an honour playing for England, at any level. I'm really looking forward to it, it keeps me ticking over during the international break. It's nice to play a couple games and keep my fitness up. I'll be raring to go against Leicester."
In the qualification rounds we played against some easier teams as such but now we're playing against the big boys. It will be a good test for us to see what we're all about."
"The game against Germany is the one that stands out, it should be a great game. It's one I'm certainly looking forward to."
The match is broadcast live on BT Sport 1, with the programme starting at 7.30pm.
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Maguire earns Ireland U21 call
WHUFC.com
Sean Maguire has spoken of his pride at being called up to the Republic of Ireland U21 squad. The young Hammer, who is currently on loan at Sky Bet League Two side Accrington Stanley, is in Noel King's U21 squad for the first time, having previously won three caps at U19 level. Ireland are taking on Andorra in their first 2017 UEFA U21 Championship qualifier on Thursday evening at Waterford United - the club Maguire signed for the Hammers from in 2013. The 20-year-old has scored five goas in 25 league games for Stanley this season and is thrilled to have been given the opportunity to shine on the international stage. "I'm delighted to be called up," he said. "It's an honour to be recognised by your country & I hope I'll get the chance to play. "First team football at Accrington has made a huge difference to me this season & I'm grateful to everyone at the club for the opportunity. "To get an international call up after a great time playing regularly this season is just fantastic."
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Cullen's dual debut aim
WHUFC.com
It is an exciting time to be Josh Cullen. The promising midfielder was named on the West Ham United bench for the first time for the recent Barclays Premier League fixture at Arsenal. This week, the 18-year-old midfielder is set to make his competitive international debut for Republic of Ireland in the European U19 Championship Elite Round. For Cullen, the prospect of facing mini-group hosts Germany, Slovakia and Czech Republic – starting on Thursday 26 March – for a place at this summer's finals in Greece is one he is relishing.
"It's a good standard of football and the group we are in is a very competitive one," the No39 began. "Germany are one of the countries that everybody is looking up to at the moment, while Slovakia are actually considered to be the favourites. "It's going to be a great test but we believe in ourselves as a team. Only one team goes through, which makes it even tougher, so we have got to be on our game.
"It's a great experience to play against good teams like Germany, but we have beaten Holland and Sweden this year so we believe in ourselves and we want to go as far as we can.
For Cullen, who was born and raised in Essex but has Irish ancestry, representing Ireland is special to him and his family. "International football is a different experience than club football. At West Ham, we train and play and generally go home afterwards, but with Ireland we are in a hotel for eleven or 12 days and it's a great experience. "I am proud to be playing for Ireland and making my family proud at the same time. I missed the Euro U17s and the first set of U19 qualifiers through injury, so I am looking forward to make my first competitive appearance."
Back at West Ham, Cullen is training regularly with Sam Allardyce's first-team squad as he pushes for his first senior appearance in Claret and Blue. With the likes of Mark Noble, Alex Song, Cheikhou Kouyate and Kevin Nolan also at the Club, the teenager knows he may have to be patient, but that will not stop him giving his all every single day. I am a West Ham fan, so I want to see the first team doing well and the Club doing well Having got into the matchday 18 at the Emirates, Cullen is keen for more opportunities to impress. "It's something you grow up dreaming of, so to be involved in a Premier League game as a West Ham fan is great. The next step for me is to carry on working hard and to get my debut. "Being involved somewhere like the Emirates made it more memorable because it is a magnificent stadium with a pitch like a carpet and the facilities there are on a different level. "I don't feel out of place when I train with the first-team squad so I just need to keep working hard to improve my game to get to first-team standard. "I have played U18 and U21 football over the last season and a half, so now it's about playing more U21 football and trying to stand out at that level to push myself into the first-team squad or go out on loan and get some first-team experience. "So, by doing the best I can and continuing to work hard, hopefully those chances will come."
Whether he makes his debut before the current season is out or not, Cullen is happy to be part of an improving West Ham squad – one which looks on course to finish in the top half of the Barclays Premier League for the second time in three seasons. "I am a West Ham fan, so I want to see the first team doing well and the Club doing well. We do have a quite a few players in my position, so it's tough to see a way through, but at the same time it is a privilege and a challenge to work with the players I watched before I got anywhere near this standard. "Now I am closer to it than ever before, I need to take any little chance that I get. "The feedback I have had from the coaches gives me confidence and if I can take what I have done in training into games then hopefully I can break through into the West Ham first team. That's the aim."
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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Hello everyone,
We will start this week's round-up with news of two positive surgeries for James Tomkins and Doneil Henry. James Tomkins had successful surgery on his dislocated left shoulder and the first signs following the operation are good. We aim for him to be back before the end of the 2014/15 season.
Doneil had a complicated hamstring problem which he suffered while on loan for Blackburn Rovers. This injury was treated with a successful operation and we are looking at him being back for the start of pre-season training in July.
Winston Reid continues to rehab well from the hamstring injury he suffered in the home game against Chelsea on 4 March and it is our priority to have him ready to face Leicester City after the international break.
Andy Carroll has entered the next phase of his rehabilitation following surgery on the knee he injured at Southampton on 11 February.
We are now in week six of Andy's rehab and he is now moving without the need for crutches or a brace on his knee. He is working in the swimming pool and on the static bike.
Tuesday was the first day in his rehab protocol that we were able to work on the bike and did some exercises in the pool.
With Enner Valencia, we have seen a specialist again and he is healing well after he lacerated his big toe on 10 March. Enner was unable to go away on international duty with Ecuador, but now he is building up his training with the aim of being available for the Leicester game.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
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Lee extends Luton loan
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee has extended his loan spell with League Two club Luton Town until the end of the season. The West Ham United striker has netted three goals in six games for the Hatters, including a brace in Tuesday's 3-2 home defeat by Wycombe Wanderers. He will now remain with Luton until 2 May, and longer should John Still's men reach the League Two Play-Offs. Lee marked his opening goal on Tuesday by paying tribute to his late friend and Hammers strike partner Dylan Tombides, who passed away in April 2014 following a three-year battle with cancer. The 20-year-old lifted his shirt to show a T-shirt with the words 'FOR YOU DYL. GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN' and a photo of the popular Australian forward. "I was delighted to do that for Dyl," said Lee of his tribute, which was seen by thousands of viewers watching the match live on Sky Sports. "Being on the Sky cameras I thought it was a great stage to honour my good mate who sadly passed away nearly a year to the day, so I'm really happy I could have done that for him."
The gesture was all the more poignant the Hatters had joined forces with The Football League's Official Charity Partner, Prostate Cancer UK, to rename their Kenilworth Road home The Prostate Cancer UK Stadium for the Wycombe fixture. Speaking about the personal significance of Luton's unique charity initiative, Lee revealed that his grandfather had undergone surgery for prostate cancer "It's massive," he continued. "On a personal level, my granddad had prostate cancer. He had surgery to get it removed and I did Movember for him. He's fully recovered now. "It hit the family hard but the family stuck together and it's great to see him fighting fit again. My granddad is always in high spirits and the surgery was brilliant and he's brilliant again now." "He [is on holiday in China at the moment but] knew about it and he was really proud I think. It was a great thing for the club to do. I got him two [goals], so I think he'll be happy."
Luton, Lee and Prostate Cancer UK all became trending topics on Twitter during Tuesday's game, while the Hatters' decision to rename their stadium to help raise awareness of a disease that kills one man every hour in the UK drew widespread praise. "It's great for everyone to get involved," Lee added. "We should be aware of the cause and I think it was really good to name the stadium what it was and I think it went down well with everyone. "It's a brilliant cause and it should be highlighted. There is no better stage than on TV and a big game like Luton against Wycombe. I think it was a really good gesture."
West Ham themselves recently helped to launch the DT38 Foundation in memory of the late Academy starlet. Dylan, whose prodigious talents saw him sign for West Ham in 2008, lost his brave three-year battle with testicular cancer in April 2014, at the age of just 20. A hugely popular figure among his team-mates, coaches, backroom staff, supporters and opponents alike, the Australia U22 international was loved and respected throughout the football community for his talent, his smile and his spirit. Dylan's considerable legacy will now to be channelled through DT38, a new Foundation which is setting out to provide testicular cancer support and awareness through education and opportunity. DT38 became the Club's second official charity for the 2014/15 campaign, alongside the West Ham United Moore Family Foundation.
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Lycamobile extend Hammers partnership
KUMB.com
West Ham United have announced that Lycamobile, the largest global provider of low-cost international mobile calls, will continue as the Club's Official Partner for the next three years.
To mark the launch of the new partnership, Joint-Chairman David Gold, and players Mark Noble, Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid hosted Lycamobile global MVNOs Chairman Subaskaran Allirajah on a tour of the Club's new Stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Lycamobile has been an official partner of the Club since the 2012/13 campaign and the renewal sees the deal extend to include the first two seasons in the new Stadium.
Founded in 2006, Lycamobile provides low-cost, high-quality data and voice services to over 12 million customers across 18 countries. Its sheer span, focus on customer service and innovative business strategy has seen it outgrow its competitor set; achieving greater coverage of the European population than any other network operator.
Its partnership with the Hammers has seen it host the Lycamobile Cup at the Boleyn Ground, allowing local youngsters the opportunity of a lifetime to play on the hallowed turf, following in the famous footsteps of their Hammers heroes, as well as launching the co-branded Hammers SIM, which raised funds for the Club's Foundation.
Commenting on the new deal, West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold said: "We are delighted to be extending our partnership with Lycamobile for the next three years. They will be joining us on the exciting journey from the Boleyn Ground to our fantastic new Stadium in Stratford, building on the great success we have already enjoyed in the three years we have worked together."
Subaskaran Allirajah, Chairman of Lycamobile said, "We are so incredibly proud to be part of the West Ham success story, to extend our partnership for a further three seasons, and see this great club take its well-deserved place in this iconic ground, home of the 2012 Olympic Games."
As well as sponsorship of West Ham United Football Club, Lycamobile proudly supports the West Ham Foundation as part of its mission to bring communities together. www.lycamobile.com
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Diafra Sakho: West Ham striker says FA proposals are 'an excuse'
By Shamoon Hafez
BBC Sport
English football's failings should not be blamed on the number of foreign players in the Premier League, says West Ham's Diafra Sakho.
Football Association chairman Greg Dyke has outlined plans to restrict non-EU players coming into the English game. And England defender Phil Jagielka has backed the quality of English players coming through the system. But Senegal striker Sakho told BBC Sport: "Everyone can make their own excuses to defend their own interests."
The former Ligue 1 player added: "France won the World Cup in 1998 and the French league was full of foreigners, same with Spain who won the World Cup and Euros, and Germany too. "I don't see why we should shut the door on new talent coming over." Sakho, 25, joined West Ham from Metz on a four-year deal in the summer and has become an integral part of Sam Allardyce's side, scoring 12 goals in all competitions.
He has followed a rich tradition of African players succeeding in the Premier League, with the likes of Ivorians Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure both winning several trophies with Chelsea and Manchester City. "We have seen many African players do well here so it would make things difficult for them," Sakho said. "The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world, one which all young players dream of playing in."
Defender Winston Reid moved to Upton Park from Danish side Midtjylland in 2010 and won West Ham's player of the year award in 2012-13.
The New Zealander suggests the pressure for clubs to succeed force them to look for players away from these shores. "The Premier League now is a massive business for football clubs," he said at an event for Lycamobile and the West Ham Foundation. "They might not be playing young players but buying better players from abroad. "It would be unfortunate if some of my peers weren't given the chance to do the same as me. There are a lot of good foreign players here." In Europe this season, no Premier League side progressed into the quarter-finals of the Champions League or Europa League.
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Winston Reid committed to pushing West Ham into Premier League's top four
Last Updated: 25/03/15 6:28pm
SSN
Defender Winston Reid has revealed he signed a new long-term deal with West Ham because he is committed to seeing the club reach the top four. Reid has signed a new six-and-half-year contract with the Hammers, which is reportedly valued at £60,000 per week, after being linked with possible moves to Arsenal and Tottenham. The 26-year-old says he is "committed" to his future at West Ham and sees the club pushing their way up the Premier League table "It did strike me to move to another place, but my family and I wanted to stay here," Reid told The Sun. "I figured out what I wanted to do with my career and that's be part of the place here and help the club to improve. "It won't take only one or two years - it might be after I finish that the club gets into the top six or top four."
West Ham currently sit in ninth place in the Premier League table and are hoping to finish the season with their best points return yet.
"It's unfortunate that us as a team in the last couple of months, we haven't been functioning at 100 per cent compared to the beginning of the year," Reid said. "We're looking to finish strong and not let the season fade away." Reid is currently in a race against time to overcome a hamstring injury to be fit for New Zealand's international match against South Korea this weekend. But the Hammers expect the Kiwi back in time to travel with the squad to Leicester on April 4 after the international break. Ecuador forward Enner Valencia, meanwhile, has seen a specialist again and is healing well after he lacerated his big toe on March 10. "Enner was unable to go away on international duty with Ecuador, but now he is building up his training with the aim of being available for the Leicester game," said Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke.
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Lee staying with Luton
Luton have extended the loan stay of West Ham striker Elliot Lee until the end of the season.
Last Updated: 25/03/15 2:30pm
SSN
Luton have extended the loan stay of West Ham striker Elliot Lee until the end of the season. The 20-year-old grabbed two goals in Monday night's televised defeat to Wycombe to make it three goals in four starts since being borrowed from Upton Park. "Elliot's been fantastic for us since joining and we're thrilled we'll have him for the rest of this season," boss John Still told the club's official website.
"He's getting fitter all the time and I think that sharpness has been there for all to see in our past two matches." Lee added: "I've enjoyed my short time with the club, the lads and the fans are fantastic. Our goal is to win promotion and that's what I want to help us achieve between now and the end of the season." Lee, who has a 24-hour recall clause in his deal, previously spent loan spells with Colchester and Southend.
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THE MEN IN BLACK
By Tony Hanna 25 Mar 2015 at 08:00
West Ham till I Die
What do tennis, rugby union, rugby league and cricket have that we don't? A video review of the most important decisions that affect a game of course, well apart from goal line technology which is in its infancy. The refereeing in the Premier League has been so bad this season that some are even alluding to the possibility of refs deliberately making a few hashes so as to heighten the need for video help. I find this assumption ridiculous at best but at least it highlights just how bad the referees have been. And it is getting worse. More than once this season the wrong player has been sent off in cases of misidentity.
Now, let's have a look at the Premier League. Here we have a competition where the TV rights have escalated to over 5 billion pounds for the next three seasons and on average each game has a World viewing audience of over twelve million. We have matches comprising of twenty two of the finest and fastest athletes available and they play for an hour and a half with a fifteen minute break. These fit young men also practise falling over at the slightest of touches and if the ref does not give them what they want he and his team mates are allowed to surround him, point fingers and shout at him. He probably can't hear much of what they are screaming as the 40,000 crowd that sit just a few yards away are hurling abuse at him and have started to chant "you don't know what you are doing"! They are also questioning his parentage. The TV cameras have by now played twenty eight replays from 108 different angles and the whole place is going manic. Who is this ref, this man in black? Who is this balding, rotund 48 year old that has wires spouting from every orifice and carries around a can of foam? Often he was the young kid at school, you know the one, the one that loved to play football in the play ground but was never good enough to make the school team. He was the kid that decided "better become a referee if I can't play".
Now perhaps I am being a bit unfair? These men in black are remarkably fit for their age and know the rules of the game much better than the fans watching and indeed the pundits in the TV box. But come on! When are we going to realise that the speed of the game has passed these poor fellows by? Not to mention the so called professionalism of some of the tactics employed by shrewd coaches trying to con him. They need a hand. Every mistake they make is scrutinised by the video replays, the very replays that could help them make the right decisions!
One of the perceived downsides of allowing a referee or a 4th official the luxury of these replays is that it will slow the game down. My view is I would not care providing we get the right decision and it was only used for the major decisions where a referee requires assistance. My view is also that if we cut out the surrounding of referees by players waving imaginary cards at them, it might help speed the game up sufficiently to make up for any said video review. And don't get me started on players rolling around on the ground, taking the ball into the corner post and all other forms of time wasting. The surrounding of the refs will stop, as will the need for a 4th official trying to contain an irate manager on the sideline if everyone knew "we were going upstairs" for clarification. If ever the video ref does come into play in our game it will still not be perfect. There will be the odd mistakes made as it will still be a human being that officiates them. But it will be a whole lot better than what we are enduring at the moment. Or will we miss our favourite post match pastime too much? You know, the right to moan after the game to everyone and anybody that will listen, that we were robbed again?
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West Ham striker Diafra Sakho says England always "making excuses" over national team failings
18:15, 25 March 2015 By Hamish Mackay
The Senegal forward slammed suggestions that foreign players in the Premier League are damaging the England national team
The Mirror
Diafra Sakho has dismissed suggestions that England perform poorly on the international stage because of foreign players in the Premier League. Football Association chairman Greg Dyke is one of many people to have made such a claim, saying the presence of foreign players restricts the opportunities for young English talent. Dyke has even announced plans to restrict the number of non-EU players in the top flight. West Ham striker Sakho, though, says the FA are just making excuses. "Everyone can make their own excuses to defend their own interests," Sakho told BBC Sport. "France won the World Cup in 1998 and the French league was full of foreigners, same with Spain who won the World Cup and Euros, and Germany too. "I don't see why we should shut the door on new talent coming over." The Senegal striker said footballers throughout the world dream of playing in the Premier League and plans to restrict their presence would punish them unfairly.
He said: "The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world, one which all young players dream of playing in. It would be unfortunate if some of my peers weren't given the chance to do the same as me. There are a lot of good foreign players here."
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Irons scout Turk
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United are this afternoon being linked with Fenerbache goalkeeper Mert Günok. If Turkish newspaper Fanatik is to be believed, the Irons have been tracking the stopper on several occasions this season. A Hammers source told ClaretandHugh: "We are tracking up to 50 players at any one time. It's too early to talk in terms of contracts. However, the report goes on to say the we are ready to offer the player a deal as we hunt for a replacement No 2 to Jussi Jaaskalainen. Günok is free to enter direct talks with other clubs due to his contract set to run out at the end of the season. The Turkish international is currently second choice keeper at the Turkish club behind international Volkan Demirel.
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It's 'sack Sam season' so does he stay or go?
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Just eight games left and the big question remains! It is not – as it should be – about how many points the team collect but whether Sam Allardyce will remain in charge at the end of them! It's a terrible shame that the division which exists between the fans over the manager has now become part of the West Ham culture – an inevitable discussion point every season. This time of course, it's different. His contract is up in June, there's no compensation to pay and its a case of whether the Davids have had enough of him or whether they are ready to invest another two years in his style of management because believe me he won't take one year rolling deals.
He knows he can do better than that elsewhere. The hysteria which surrounds the Sam issue – and we at ClaretandHugh readily admit we have been caught up in at times – has been dreadful. The division itself is a massive problem as blogged on here recently by Rich Sprent.
This club's fanbase are at each other's throats all day every day and that is one reason why maybe the 60 year old will have to go.
David-Sullivan-001His supporters will stress over and over again that he doesn't deserve to be binned, because he has done everything asked of him. Nobody can argue with that but there remains one big flaw in the argument and that is that the requirements have changed.
The club has decided it really does need to start winning things and Sam isn't noted for that – indeed he has never won anything.
There are other underlying issues at the club which are creating obvious conflicts with a David Sullivan announcement before Christmas making his position towards Sam very clear indeed. He said: 'The longer you are in the game and the longer you've had the manager, you get involved more and more because when you see your money wasted year after year, you think "I could do as good as that. modibomaigaIt gets even stronger with him adding: 'And you really can, you know. I know that sounds daft but if you've had 20 years of buying players, seeing money spent, they're not geniuses.' He stopped short of mentioning Modibo Maiga and Alou Diarra but the point was clearly made!
Last summer they did something about that by becoming far more hands on in the market place and were highly successful with the arrival of such as Cresswell, Valencia and Sakho arriving – all as a result of the board's drive for more attacking football.
Much has been made of the brilliant performances against such as City, United, Liverpool, Spurs and Chelsea. The board may well take the view that was because of their determination to ensure that things changed on the field and their insistence on an attacking coach. Sam Allardyce's ensures that wherever he works there is no director of football involved. He actually has one now in all but name – David Sullivan advised by his new recruitment of director to the board, Tony Henry. Those two are calling the shots more and more and whether such a tension is maintainable for another two years has to be doubtful in the extreme. So will there be a change of manager?
My personal view is that it looks an inevitability. Who that somebody will be remains a vexed question and we will all hold a different view. I just pray to God it's somebody who can reunited a fan base desperately weary of all the ghastly infighting!
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Poyet loan hopes hit
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Diego Poyet is very unlikely to be send out on loan before Thursday's deadline! The 19 year old has made just seven appearances this season – two as a Huddersfield loan player – but the club are reluctant to let him out to get some much needed football. The former Charlton starlet has been told that in the light on recent injuries he will be needed at the club as a cover player. We were told: "Sadly for Diego the club's injury situation dictates that we have to err on the side of caution – it's very unlikely he will be allowed out because of that."
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England call-up fades and dies again
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It comes up every international break and is no closer to resolution that it was last time around – the 'Mark Noble for England debate.' As you may expect, the newspapers describe it as the Hammers midfielder "refusing to give up on his dream" which makes it sound a bit like an X-Factor audition! There was a moment when the 27 year old was apparently considering offering his services to Ireland – presumably in the basis of one of his relatives visiting Dublin or Belfast on one occasion – I jest! That of course hasn't happened and yesterday was again making it clear where his heart really lies. Mark Noble is refusing to give up on his dream of breaking into the England squad ahead of the European Championship Finals despite being overlooked once again by Roy Hodgson. He has already represented England at every level from the Under 16s to the Under 19s and was even made captain of the Under 21s team for the Euro Finals in 2009.
But that elusive first team call-up eludes him, overlooked on this occasion whilst inexperienced Spurs midfielder Ryan Mason is included the forthcoming games against Lithuania and Italy after Adam Lallana was forced to pull out. Noble said: 'I have made it clear what I think about the situation and I would love to play for my country. But obviously at the moment it doesn't look like it is going to happen. 'I will keep playing as well as I can at West Ham and enjoying it every week. You never know what will happen in the future."
It's all pretty simple from where we are sitting – Roy Hodgson doesn't fancy him – end of story!
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Collins: "I'm doing alright"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
James Collins is delighted with his form despite suffering a few niggles from a number of injury problems. The 31 year old central defender has been massive for the Hammers over recent games and drew a special comment from David Sullivan after Saturday's win against Sunderland. As we reported yesterday the Welshman – now away in international duty is our "dark outsider" as Hammer of the Year with the co chairman claiming of his latest performance: "He was outstanding." Collins and partner Cheik Kouyate partnered him at the back and Collins said: "I'm doing alright. I have struggled a little bit with some niggles, but I am over that now. Of Kouyate, he said: "He is so experienced and has played there so many times for his country so he knows what he is doing. "He has a lack of English, but he is still very vocal on the pitch which is always good."
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Wednesday, March 25
Daily WHUFC News - 25th March 2015
Lee pays Tombides tribute
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee paid a moving personal tribute to late friend and West Ham United
team-mate Dylan Tombides after scoring for loan club Luton Town on Tuesday.
The striker lifted his shirt to show a photo of the striker and the message
'FOR YOU DYL. GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN' after scoring the Hatters' first
equaliser in their 3-2 League Two defeat by Wycombe Wanderers. Lee later
scored a second equaliser at Kenilworth Road, after which he kissed a tattoo
he had inked in memory of his pal, who passed away in April 2014 after a
three-year battle with cancer. The on-loan West Ham player's performance
itself was one Tombides would no doubt have been proud of, as Lee scored
with an opportunist strike before doubling his tally by starting a move that
he finished with a clinical volley. Unfortunately, Lee's goals were not
enough to avert a fifth straight league defeat for John Still's side, who
sit sixth in the League Two table.
In February, West Ham proudly played their part in the launch of the DT38
Foundation in memory of the Academy starlet. Dylan, whose prodigious talents
saw him sign for West Ham in 2008, lost his brave three-year battle with
testicular cancer in April 2014, at the age of just 20. A hugely popular
figure among his team-mates, coaches, backroom staff, supporters and
opponents alike, the Australia U22 international was loved and respected
throughout the football community for his talent, his smile and his spirit.
Dylan's considerable legacy is now to be channelled through DT38, a new
Foundation which is setting out to provide testicular cancer support and
awareness through education and opportunity. DT38 becomes the Club's second
official charity for the 2014/15 campaign, alongside the West Ham United
Moore Family Foundation.
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Former Player Blog - Ray Stewart
WHUFC.com
Ray Stewart made 432 appearances for the Hammers between 1979 and 1991,
scoring an impressive 84 goals, the majority of which came from the penalty
spot. In our weekly column with a former West Ham player, Ray Stewart talks
about the good job Sam Allardyce is doing, how to take a penalty and the
positive direction the club is going in…
Although I haven't been able to see every game, from what I have seen, West
Ham have played very well this year. Apart from one or two bad results
they've played very well and lot of a credit rests with Sam Allardyce. It
isn't easy to change the mentality or formation of the team but that's what
he's done, in my opinion pretty quickly. The good work started with the
summer signings made over last summer, I think they've strengthened the
squad massively. Their impact has set the tone for the rest of the players
and hopefully this summer will see similarly successful transfers. With
eight league games to go, it's nice to see West Ham in a healthy position in
the league. It's nice not to be involved in a relegation scrap – that might
sound negative but you can never take Premier League safety for granted,
especially with how competitive it is. Again, Sam deserves a lot of credit,
since getting promoted, they've looked more and competitive each season and
hopefully that continues.
I think a top ten finish is definitely a realistic target. Hopefully they
can finish eighth, top of this mini group we're in with Swansea and Stoke
City. I think that would be a fantastic achievement and a good building
block for the final season at the Boleyn Ground. I've seen a few people
complain that there are no West Ham players involved in the England squad.
But I have to say, I'm not too surprised, Roy Hodgson is free to pick who he
thinks is best. To be a West Ham player, you need to give your best for the
club and for the shirt and in that respect playing for West Ham is almost
more important than playing for England. Maybe that's easy to say as a Scot!
Obviously, for the players it would no doubt be a great honour and a good
experience and a new level of football. Unfortunately for them, England are
pretty strong in the areas that West Ham have English players so it's very
difficult. I'm sure Sam will secretly be delighted because it gives them a
bit of a rest and they won't come back injured.
One of those who has been talked about for England is Mark Noble, a player I
admire a lot. I've heard he doesn't practise taking penalties in training
but each player is different, he's obviously more comfortable doing it that
way. It seems to work for him, that's all that matters at the end of the
day. I practised penalties every day after training. I was always confident
in my ability but the more you practise, the better you're going to get at
anything. I would place cones in a certain area that I wanted to hit. I
didn't have a specific method or routine. I remember I particularly wanted
to score against Gary Bailey at Manchester United because he was one of the
best around at the time but also he studied penalty takers the most. That
wasn't very common at the time, it's much more common these days for players
to analyse the opposition, so it may help Mark acting on instinct as that's
harder to predict.
.
A further positive for the club is Winston Reid and James Tomkins both
signing new contracts, it shows the clubs ambition as well as the players'
commitment. To be successful you need everyone, from the Board down, pulling
in one direction, keeping hold of your best players is certainly one way of
doing that. I also like Aaron Cresswell a lot. He looks very comfortable on
the ball and he loves getting forward which everyone likes to see.
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Oxford scores for England in 3-1 win
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Reece Oxford scored the opening goal in England U17's 3-1
win over Slovenia on Monday 23 March. The talented centre-back, who also
captained the Three Lions, headed Nathan Holland's corner powerfully past
Slovenian goalkeeper Rok Vodisek in the 20th minute. In an entertaining
encounter, both sides had opportunities to score and it was Everton's
Holland who turned from provider to scorer as he drilled a shot past Vodisek
after a neat one-two with Chris Willock. England wrapped up the victory
before the half-time whistle as Slovenian defender Matija Rom inadvertently
sliced Holland's cut-back into his own goal. With England in control, the
visitors continued to plug away and their efforts were rewarded when captain
Jan Mlakar's looping header beat Paul Woolston with 15 minutes remaining.
The win is the U17s fifth in as many games and with qualification for the
European Championships held in Bulgaria assured, their final game is against
Romania on Thursday 26 March.
England U17: Paul Woolston; James Yates, Reece Oxford (C), Easah Suliman,
Jay DaSilva: Tom Davies, Daniel Wright; Nathan Holland (Lukas Nmecha 64),
Chris Willock (Will Patching 48), Layton Ndukwu (Marcus Edwards 54); Kazaiah
Sterling
Scorers: Oxford 20, Holland 36, Rom (O.G) 38
Slovenia U17: Rok Vodisek; Matija Rom (Rok Buzinel 40), Luka Gucek, Oscar
Cvjeticanin, Sven Karic Sostaric; Vitja Malencic, Sandi Ogrinec (Dejan
Petrovic 40), Kristjan Sredojevic (Gaber Petric 67); Jacob Novak, Timi Max
Elsnik; Jan Mlakar (C)
Scorer: Mlakar 65
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan pleased with team graft
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan says three points was the reward for hard West Ham United graft
on Saturday. The Hammers ended an eight-game wait for victory by striking
late against struggling Sunderland to seal victory with Diafra Sakho's tenth
Barclays Premier League goal of the season. It may not have been the most
flowing performance of the season, but Nolan was not bothered about that
with the result the critical matter for the West Ham skipper. He said: "It
wasn't the prettiest game in the world but that doesn't matter when you get
a win. That's the most important thing when you've gone on a run of twelve
games with only one victory. "We've been playing well at home and probably
deserved a lot more points than we picked up. This game is very harsh and
we've come away with a few dodgy results over the last couple of weeks, but
on Saturday, hard work got us a deserved victory."
Victory might have been more comfortable had the Hammers been awarded a
second half penalty when Santiago Vergini tugged Nolan back inside the box.
However, a controversial offside decision prevented referee Lee Mason from
having to make the big call. Nolan continued: "I'm an emotional guy and I
was trying to tell Lee that the ball had come off their player, and I knew
that I had a defender behind me when Ginge played the ball into the box. "So
that was disappointing as I'm still searching for that 100th league goal and
I wanted to finish that. To be ruled offside and not get the penalty was
more frustrating. "In the end there'll be a lot of debate over whether Nene
fouled Seb Larsson in the build up to our goal, and they say it evens out so
maybe that's what happened."
With the season now approaching the finishing straight, Nolan is convinced
the Hammers can find form again and climb back up the table.
He added: "We've got eight games left which we think we can pick up a lot
more points from. Hopefully it's going to be a good run in for us. "Let's
not forget we played all the top teams in the Premier League in that
twelve-game run, so it's been difficult. We've got teams in and around us so
it's a time where we're looking to gain points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
So Schar, so good
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th March 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's search for a fourth central defender has thrown up the name of FC
Basel's highly-rated Fabian Schar.
A tabloid report this morning is linking the Hammers with a £5million move
for the 6ft 1in Swiss international, who is said to have been interesting
the likes of Arsenal and Spurs recently.
The story, published in today's Sun claims that a fee between the two
parties has already been agreed with view to a move taking place at the end
of the season. Schar has just over a year left on his current contract with
the current Swiss Super League leaders.
The 23-year-old has been a mainstay in the Basel side since becoming a first
team regular during the 2012/13 season, when he made 34 appearances in the
Swiss League and Europa League.
Last season he made a further 25 appearances - including his debut for
Switzerland, in a memorable 4-4 World Cup qualifier with Iceland. Four days
later he marked his second international cap with both goals in a 2-0 win in
Norway, going on to score seven times by the end of the campaign.
Having already caught the eye of a number of top European clubs, Schar has
been a regular again in 2014/15 for both Basel and Switzerland, for whom he
scored his most recent goal against Lithuania in a 4-0 European Championship
qualifier back in November.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye Eddie Howe as manager with Sam Allardyce contract saga dragging
on
22:30, 20 March 2015 By Darren Lewis
Hammers have been considering Real Sociedad's David Moyes but now
37-year-old in charge of Championship high flyers Bournemouth is on the
radar too
The Mirror
Eddie Howe has emerged as a serious contender for the West Ham job.
Bournemouth boss Howe, currently challenging for automatic promotion to the
Premier League, is highly regarded at Upton Park, where the Irons are
considering their options. Current West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is out of
contract at the end of the season and has yet to even open talks over a new
deal. Sunderland, however, have him as their no.1 choice to take over in the
summer from interim boss Dick Advocaat, appointed this week following the
sacking of Gus Poyet.
West Ham have been keen on David Moyes for some time, but the former
Manchester United boss - taken on by Real Sociedad last autumn - has
indicated he is ready to stay on at the Spanish side next season if he gets
backing in the transfer market this summer. If that remains the case, the
Hammers could turn to Howe, who has done an outstanding job at Dean Court.
Should he secure promotion from the Championship, the 37-year-old will have
taken Bournemouth from the bottom four of the Football League in 2008 to the
promised land of the Premier League.
Forward-thinking Howe has shown himself able to assert his authority and
impressed his staff and players with his training methods. His contract at
the club runs until the summer of 2018 and Howe has always had the full
backing of owner Maxim Demin. It remains to be seen, however, whether he
would be willing to move on, having steered the club into the money-spinning
riches of the top flight. Allardyce meanwhile has insisted he wants to stay
on at Upton Park. He said: "I understand why the speculation is there. Of
course I do. Everyone knows my contract expires at the end of June and, as
yet, nothing further has been decided. "I would stress that, providing
everyone is happy, I would like to stay at West Ham. "They are a great club,
moving in the right direction and a lot is now in place for sustained
improvement. "I suppose, if a new contract has been signed and sealed, my
name wouldn't have been mentioned in connection with any other club or job.
"While the owners and I have always been comfortable with waiting until the
end of the season, the downside has always been that it fuels speculation -
'Are they going to give him one? Are they going to get rid of him? Does
somebody else want him because he is out of contract so there is no
compensation?' "Finding a new manager revolves around the whole package —
how good is the manager, what are the financial implications and what is the
compensation?"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce wants West Ham to finish the season strongly and secure 'hero
status'
22:30, 20 March 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
The Hammers have slipped to 10th following a bright start but Big Sam wants
a grandstand finish - starting with the visit of struggling Sunderland
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce believes West Ham's run-in will shape how their season is
remembered – and possibly his future. The Hammers boss says he would be a
hero after a strong finish, but joked the call would be "get rid of him" if
their campaign ends limply. His side have slipped to 10th after winning just
one of their last 12 league games and that dip, following a bright start to
the season, has increased the focus on Big Sam's future with his contract up
this summer. Allardyce admits West Ham's run-in, which begins on Saturday
against Sunderland, is "massive" for him as well as the team. He said: "Win
all nine, I'm doing great. Lose all nine, get rid of him. That's a bit
tongue in cheek by the way, but it's true. "Everybody would go away and say
what a bad season it's been. If we turn it around, what a great season.
"Everybody at the end of the season will remember the last eight or nine
games and that's when you get hero status. "Like Gus Poyet last year at
Sunderland. Alan Curbishley here, when he came here and saved them. It's
hero status."
Allardyce insists there is no need for him to remind West Ham's owners to
judge him over the whole season when they hold crunch talks in summer. He
said: "I don't have to defend myself to the owners. We all know where we
are. I'm disappointed. The players are disappointed. "David Sullivan and
David Gold are very disappointed in the run we have had up to now. But at
the end of the day we're still 10th. We've still got 39 points. "We've still
got nine games to go. Of course we will try our very best to finish in
eighth or better position if we possibly can. "They're playing well, but
we're not clinching victories at the times we are in a position to win a
game. "We've let it slip. We have to try to put that right against
Sunderland."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers "real interest" in Swiss star
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are some way off doing a deal for Basel dedender Fabian Schar
despite reports that they have provisionally agreed a fee and talks are
"well down the road". The 23 year old very much fits the Hammers profile as
they search for the best youngsters around and but with both Arsenal and
Tottenham keen we have a battle on our hands for the central defender. A
club insider told ClaretandHugh the club's interest in the Swiss
international is real declaring: "There have been preliminary talks but
there is a way to go. We'll have to wait and see where it goes." Schar is
one of Basel's prized assets, but his contract expires in 2016 and that
means he will be available at a
knockdown fee.. He has nine caps for Switzerland and featured at the World
Cup in Brazil
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blackburn told "no chance of buying Henry"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Blackburn Rovers boss Gary Bowyer received a "hands off Doneil Henry"
warning from West Ham today amid speculation the Championship may try to buy
the central defender. Henry was seriously impressive for Rovers over three
games on loan before suffering a hamstring injury and Bowyer has made it
clear he will be keeping in touch with West Ham on the injury. He told the
Lancashire Evening Telegraph: "The most important thing is Doneil has a
successful operation and then continues his rehab. "But we'll certainly stay
in touch with him and then assess things in the summer. The poor lad has got
a bit of work to do before then. "There are plans for him to come up to see
the boys because he made such a great impression during his short spell with
us and he built a real relationship with the players and the staff."
However a top Irons insider made it clear there was next to know chance of
Bowyer clinching a permanent deal for Henry although a loan was a
possibility. He said: "They couldn't afford him anyway. Doneil cost £1.5m
plus a lot more after Premier League starts. He was bought for the future
and has already shown fantastic potential at Ewood Park so where's the
future in selling him. Why would we do that?
It is just possible , if we feel he needs a season or half season in the
Championship as part of his development, that we might loan him to them
again next season. But no decisions will be made until after pre season as
he might be ready for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pressure grows for Oxford call-up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Reece Oxford is seen as ready to make a serious first team impact next
season. Many senior figures inside the club want the 16 year old to be given
his chance during what remains of the season but that is very much in the
hands of manager Sam Allardyce. Some sources are telling ClaretandHugh there
is a growing tension between Oxford's supporters who want him fast-tracked
into the first team and the managerial team who are unsure whether he's
ready.
However, senior figures at Chadwell Heath are convinced the youngster – who
was wanted by Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea before
signing a new Hammers deal – are convinced he will become a major part of
the team next season. As news broke this morning that the Hammers were
planning a move for Swiss youngster Fabian Schar ClaretandHugh was told:
"Many of us believe Reece Oxford is ready even though he'll only be 17 next
January. "We are watching with interest to see if he gets a first team
call-up. There are lots of decisions to be made and lots on hold but the
situation surrounding Reece is being watched with particular interest."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Unsung hero enters Hammer of Year race
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I have no doubt that Diafra Sakho and Aaron Cresswell will be leading the
race for Hammer of the Year with Chiek Kouyate also in the frame. Sak's
first season has been immense and Cressy has shown extraordinary form since
stepping up from the Championship.
The Senegal midfielder has taken no time to settle at all and has produced
some magical moments – any one of the three would be a worthy winner.
But let me throw another name in there – a bloke who is probably the unsung
hero of unsung heroes who, all season, has poured his heart into things,
often without a regularly consistent partner.
Step up James Collins! Sure there have been moments when he has looked a
little suspect – the same can be said of us all – but in terms of heart and
no nonsense defending when required he has been superb.
There was a moment on Saturday evening against sunderland when – with the
boots flying – he went in to head clear of the flying feet, risking a
crunching boot in the head or even the loss of an eye.
Ok James has his limitations and doesn't bring it out from the back like
some but in terms of heart and defensive solidarity you won't find many more
committed to their club than their Welsh international.
The other contenders have been great but Collins has truly been awesome at
times
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers still on Moyes' trail
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are refusing to give up on attracting David Moyes to the club as
Sam Allardyce's successor! The former Everton and Manchester United boss
yesterday revealed that he was very happy in Spain with Real Sociedad and
appeared to rule out a switch back to the Premier League. Asked if he would
be returning he said: 'I think someday I will. 'I've left when I didn't
expect to be leaving but what I've taken on is a great job. I love working
in Spain.' However, Hammers insiders are convinced he is simply saying what
he has to say and can't be expected to reveal any intentions he may have
elsewhere. The Hammers have made the 51 year old Scot their No 1 choice as
he fits the "Premier League experience and English speaking" criteria
perfectly. Irons co chairman David Sullivan is a fierce negotiator when he
sets his mind to an objective and won't be easily dissuaded by a Moyes radio
interview. ClaretandHugh was told: "They wanted him when he became available
from Manchester United and nothing has changed. "They will almost certainly
have had long chats with his s former head scout at Goodison and Hammers
recruitment director to the board Tony Henry about how and what he will
respond to. "And if David Sullivan has the bit between his teeth on this one
he could be a very hard man to resist."
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WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee paid a moving personal tribute to late friend and West Ham United
team-mate Dylan Tombides after scoring for loan club Luton Town on Tuesday.
The striker lifted his shirt to show a photo of the striker and the message
'FOR YOU DYL. GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN' after scoring the Hatters' first
equaliser in their 3-2 League Two defeat by Wycombe Wanderers. Lee later
scored a second equaliser at Kenilworth Road, after which he kissed a tattoo
he had inked in memory of his pal, who passed away in April 2014 after a
three-year battle with cancer. The on-loan West Ham player's performance
itself was one Tombides would no doubt have been proud of, as Lee scored
with an opportunist strike before doubling his tally by starting a move that
he finished with a clinical volley. Unfortunately, Lee's goals were not
enough to avert a fifth straight league defeat for John Still's side, who
sit sixth in the League Two table.
In February, West Ham proudly played their part in the launch of the DT38
Foundation in memory of the Academy starlet. Dylan, whose prodigious talents
saw him sign for West Ham in 2008, lost his brave three-year battle with
testicular cancer in April 2014, at the age of just 20. A hugely popular
figure among his team-mates, coaches, backroom staff, supporters and
opponents alike, the Australia U22 international was loved and respected
throughout the football community for his talent, his smile and his spirit.
Dylan's considerable legacy is now to be channelled through DT38, a new
Foundation which is setting out to provide testicular cancer support and
awareness through education and opportunity. DT38 becomes the Club's second
official charity for the 2014/15 campaign, alongside the West Ham United
Moore Family Foundation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Player Blog - Ray Stewart
WHUFC.com
Ray Stewart made 432 appearances for the Hammers between 1979 and 1991,
scoring an impressive 84 goals, the majority of which came from the penalty
spot. In our weekly column with a former West Ham player, Ray Stewart talks
about the good job Sam Allardyce is doing, how to take a penalty and the
positive direction the club is going in…
Although I haven't been able to see every game, from what I have seen, West
Ham have played very well this year. Apart from one or two bad results
they've played very well and lot of a credit rests with Sam Allardyce. It
isn't easy to change the mentality or formation of the team but that's what
he's done, in my opinion pretty quickly. The good work started with the
summer signings made over last summer, I think they've strengthened the
squad massively. Their impact has set the tone for the rest of the players
and hopefully this summer will see similarly successful transfers. With
eight league games to go, it's nice to see West Ham in a healthy position in
the league. It's nice not to be involved in a relegation scrap – that might
sound negative but you can never take Premier League safety for granted,
especially with how competitive it is. Again, Sam deserves a lot of credit,
since getting promoted, they've looked more and competitive each season and
hopefully that continues.
I think a top ten finish is definitely a realistic target. Hopefully they
can finish eighth, top of this mini group we're in with Swansea and Stoke
City. I think that would be a fantastic achievement and a good building
block for the final season at the Boleyn Ground. I've seen a few people
complain that there are no West Ham players involved in the England squad.
But I have to say, I'm not too surprised, Roy Hodgson is free to pick who he
thinks is best. To be a West Ham player, you need to give your best for the
club and for the shirt and in that respect playing for West Ham is almost
more important than playing for England. Maybe that's easy to say as a Scot!
Obviously, for the players it would no doubt be a great honour and a good
experience and a new level of football. Unfortunately for them, England are
pretty strong in the areas that West Ham have English players so it's very
difficult. I'm sure Sam will secretly be delighted because it gives them a
bit of a rest and they won't come back injured.
One of those who has been talked about for England is Mark Noble, a player I
admire a lot. I've heard he doesn't practise taking penalties in training
but each player is different, he's obviously more comfortable doing it that
way. It seems to work for him, that's all that matters at the end of the
day. I practised penalties every day after training. I was always confident
in my ability but the more you practise, the better you're going to get at
anything. I would place cones in a certain area that I wanted to hit. I
didn't have a specific method or routine. I remember I particularly wanted
to score against Gary Bailey at Manchester United because he was one of the
best around at the time but also he studied penalty takers the most. That
wasn't very common at the time, it's much more common these days for players
to analyse the opposition, so it may help Mark acting on instinct as that's
harder to predict.
.
A further positive for the club is Winston Reid and James Tomkins both
signing new contracts, it shows the clubs ambition as well as the players'
commitment. To be successful you need everyone, from the Board down, pulling
in one direction, keeping hold of your best players is certainly one way of
doing that. I also like Aaron Cresswell a lot. He looks very comfortable on
the ball and he loves getting forward which everyone likes to see.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Oxford scores for England in 3-1 win
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Reece Oxford scored the opening goal in England U17's 3-1
win over Slovenia on Monday 23 March. The talented centre-back, who also
captained the Three Lions, headed Nathan Holland's corner powerfully past
Slovenian goalkeeper Rok Vodisek in the 20th minute. In an entertaining
encounter, both sides had opportunities to score and it was Everton's
Holland who turned from provider to scorer as he drilled a shot past Vodisek
after a neat one-two with Chris Willock. England wrapped up the victory
before the half-time whistle as Slovenian defender Matija Rom inadvertently
sliced Holland's cut-back into his own goal. With England in control, the
visitors continued to plug away and their efforts were rewarded when captain
Jan Mlakar's looping header beat Paul Woolston with 15 minutes remaining.
The win is the U17s fifth in as many games and with qualification for the
European Championships held in Bulgaria assured, their final game is against
Romania on Thursday 26 March.
England U17: Paul Woolston; James Yates, Reece Oxford (C), Easah Suliman,
Jay DaSilva: Tom Davies, Daniel Wright; Nathan Holland (Lukas Nmecha 64),
Chris Willock (Will Patching 48), Layton Ndukwu (Marcus Edwards 54); Kazaiah
Sterling
Scorers: Oxford 20, Holland 36, Rom (O.G) 38
Slovenia U17: Rok Vodisek; Matija Rom (Rok Buzinel 40), Luka Gucek, Oscar
Cvjeticanin, Sven Karic Sostaric; Vitja Malencic, Sandi Ogrinec (Dejan
Petrovic 40), Kristjan Sredojevic (Gaber Petric 67); Jacob Novak, Timi Max
Elsnik; Jan Mlakar (C)
Scorer: Mlakar 65
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan pleased with team graft
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan says three points was the reward for hard West Ham United graft
on Saturday. The Hammers ended an eight-game wait for victory by striking
late against struggling Sunderland to seal victory with Diafra Sakho's tenth
Barclays Premier League goal of the season. It may not have been the most
flowing performance of the season, but Nolan was not bothered about that
with the result the critical matter for the West Ham skipper. He said: "It
wasn't the prettiest game in the world but that doesn't matter when you get
a win. That's the most important thing when you've gone on a run of twelve
games with only one victory. "We've been playing well at home and probably
deserved a lot more points than we picked up. This game is very harsh and
we've come away with a few dodgy results over the last couple of weeks, but
on Saturday, hard work got us a deserved victory."
Victory might have been more comfortable had the Hammers been awarded a
second half penalty when Santiago Vergini tugged Nolan back inside the box.
However, a controversial offside decision prevented referee Lee Mason from
having to make the big call. Nolan continued: "I'm an emotional guy and I
was trying to tell Lee that the ball had come off their player, and I knew
that I had a defender behind me when Ginge played the ball into the box. "So
that was disappointing as I'm still searching for that 100th league goal and
I wanted to finish that. To be ruled offside and not get the penalty was
more frustrating. "In the end there'll be a lot of debate over whether Nene
fouled Seb Larsson in the build up to our goal, and they say it evens out so
maybe that's what happened."
With the season now approaching the finishing straight, Nolan is convinced
the Hammers can find form again and climb back up the table.
He added: "We've got eight games left which we think we can pick up a lot
more points from. Hopefully it's going to be a good run in for us. "Let's
not forget we played all the top teams in the Premier League in that
twelve-game run, so it's been difficult. We've got teams in and around us so
it's a time where we're looking to gain points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
So Schar, so good
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th March 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's search for a fourth central defender has thrown up the name of FC
Basel's highly-rated Fabian Schar.
A tabloid report this morning is linking the Hammers with a £5million move
for the 6ft 1in Swiss international, who is said to have been interesting
the likes of Arsenal and Spurs recently.
The story, published in today's Sun claims that a fee between the two
parties has already been agreed with view to a move taking place at the end
of the season. Schar has just over a year left on his current contract with
the current Swiss Super League leaders.
The 23-year-old has been a mainstay in the Basel side since becoming a first
team regular during the 2012/13 season, when he made 34 appearances in the
Swiss League and Europa League.
Last season he made a further 25 appearances - including his debut for
Switzerland, in a memorable 4-4 World Cup qualifier with Iceland. Four days
later he marked his second international cap with both goals in a 2-0 win in
Norway, going on to score seven times by the end of the campaign.
Having already caught the eye of a number of top European clubs, Schar has
been a regular again in 2014/15 for both Basel and Switzerland, for whom he
scored his most recent goal against Lithuania in a 4-0 European Championship
qualifier back in November.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye Eddie Howe as manager with Sam Allardyce contract saga dragging
on
22:30, 20 March 2015 By Darren Lewis
Hammers have been considering Real Sociedad's David Moyes but now
37-year-old in charge of Championship high flyers Bournemouth is on the
radar too
The Mirror
Eddie Howe has emerged as a serious contender for the West Ham job.
Bournemouth boss Howe, currently challenging for automatic promotion to the
Premier League, is highly regarded at Upton Park, where the Irons are
considering their options. Current West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is out of
contract at the end of the season and has yet to even open talks over a new
deal. Sunderland, however, have him as their no.1 choice to take over in the
summer from interim boss Dick Advocaat, appointed this week following the
sacking of Gus Poyet.
West Ham have been keen on David Moyes for some time, but the former
Manchester United boss - taken on by Real Sociedad last autumn - has
indicated he is ready to stay on at the Spanish side next season if he gets
backing in the transfer market this summer. If that remains the case, the
Hammers could turn to Howe, who has done an outstanding job at Dean Court.
Should he secure promotion from the Championship, the 37-year-old will have
taken Bournemouth from the bottom four of the Football League in 2008 to the
promised land of the Premier League.
Forward-thinking Howe has shown himself able to assert his authority and
impressed his staff and players with his training methods. His contract at
the club runs until the summer of 2018 and Howe has always had the full
backing of owner Maxim Demin. It remains to be seen, however, whether he
would be willing to move on, having steered the club into the money-spinning
riches of the top flight. Allardyce meanwhile has insisted he wants to stay
on at Upton Park. He said: "I understand why the speculation is there. Of
course I do. Everyone knows my contract expires at the end of June and, as
yet, nothing further has been decided. "I would stress that, providing
everyone is happy, I would like to stay at West Ham. "They are a great club,
moving in the right direction and a lot is now in place for sustained
improvement. "I suppose, if a new contract has been signed and sealed, my
name wouldn't have been mentioned in connection with any other club or job.
"While the owners and I have always been comfortable with waiting until the
end of the season, the downside has always been that it fuels speculation -
'Are they going to give him one? Are they going to get rid of him? Does
somebody else want him because he is out of contract so there is no
compensation?' "Finding a new manager revolves around the whole package —
how good is the manager, what are the financial implications and what is the
compensation?"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce wants West Ham to finish the season strongly and secure 'hero
status'
22:30, 20 March 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
The Hammers have slipped to 10th following a bright start but Big Sam wants
a grandstand finish - starting with the visit of struggling Sunderland
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce believes West Ham's run-in will shape how their season is
remembered – and possibly his future. The Hammers boss says he would be a
hero after a strong finish, but joked the call would be "get rid of him" if
their campaign ends limply. His side have slipped to 10th after winning just
one of their last 12 league games and that dip, following a bright start to
the season, has increased the focus on Big Sam's future with his contract up
this summer. Allardyce admits West Ham's run-in, which begins on Saturday
against Sunderland, is "massive" for him as well as the team. He said: "Win
all nine, I'm doing great. Lose all nine, get rid of him. That's a bit
tongue in cheek by the way, but it's true. "Everybody would go away and say
what a bad season it's been. If we turn it around, what a great season.
"Everybody at the end of the season will remember the last eight or nine
games and that's when you get hero status. "Like Gus Poyet last year at
Sunderland. Alan Curbishley here, when he came here and saved them. It's
hero status."
Allardyce insists there is no need for him to remind West Ham's owners to
judge him over the whole season when they hold crunch talks in summer. He
said: "I don't have to defend myself to the owners. We all know where we
are. I'm disappointed. The players are disappointed. "David Sullivan and
David Gold are very disappointed in the run we have had up to now. But at
the end of the day we're still 10th. We've still got 39 points. "We've still
got nine games to go. Of course we will try our very best to finish in
eighth or better position if we possibly can. "They're playing well, but
we're not clinching victories at the times we are in a position to win a
game. "We've let it slip. We have to try to put that right against
Sunderland."
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Hammers "real interest" in Swiss star
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are some way off doing a deal for Basel dedender Fabian Schar
despite reports that they have provisionally agreed a fee and talks are
"well down the road". The 23 year old very much fits the Hammers profile as
they search for the best youngsters around and but with both Arsenal and
Tottenham keen we have a battle on our hands for the central defender. A
club insider told ClaretandHugh the club's interest in the Swiss
international is real declaring: "There have been preliminary talks but
there is a way to go. We'll have to wait and see where it goes." Schar is
one of Basel's prized assets, but his contract expires in 2016 and that
means he will be available at a
knockdown fee.. He has nine caps for Switzerland and featured at the World
Cup in Brazil
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Blackburn told "no chance of buying Henry"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Blackburn Rovers boss Gary Bowyer received a "hands off Doneil Henry"
warning from West Ham today amid speculation the Championship may try to buy
the central defender. Henry was seriously impressive for Rovers over three
games on loan before suffering a hamstring injury and Bowyer has made it
clear he will be keeping in touch with West Ham on the injury. He told the
Lancashire Evening Telegraph: "The most important thing is Doneil has a
successful operation and then continues his rehab. "But we'll certainly stay
in touch with him and then assess things in the summer. The poor lad has got
a bit of work to do before then. "There are plans for him to come up to see
the boys because he made such a great impression during his short spell with
us and he built a real relationship with the players and the staff."
However a top Irons insider made it clear there was next to know chance of
Bowyer clinching a permanent deal for Henry although a loan was a
possibility. He said: "They couldn't afford him anyway. Doneil cost £1.5m
plus a lot more after Premier League starts. He was bought for the future
and has already shown fantastic potential at Ewood Park so where's the
future in selling him. Why would we do that?
It is just possible , if we feel he needs a season or half season in the
Championship as part of his development, that we might loan him to them
again next season. But no decisions will be made until after pre season as
he might be ready for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pressure grows for Oxford call-up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Reece Oxford is seen as ready to make a serious first team impact next
season. Many senior figures inside the club want the 16 year old to be given
his chance during what remains of the season but that is very much in the
hands of manager Sam Allardyce. Some sources are telling ClaretandHugh there
is a growing tension between Oxford's supporters who want him fast-tracked
into the first team and the managerial team who are unsure whether he's
ready.
However, senior figures at Chadwell Heath are convinced the youngster – who
was wanted by Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea before
signing a new Hammers deal – are convinced he will become a major part of
the team next season. As news broke this morning that the Hammers were
planning a move for Swiss youngster Fabian Schar ClaretandHugh was told:
"Many of us believe Reece Oxford is ready even though he'll only be 17 next
January. "We are watching with interest to see if he gets a first team
call-up. There are lots of decisions to be made and lots on hold but the
situation surrounding Reece is being watched with particular interest."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Unsung hero enters Hammer of Year race
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I have no doubt that Diafra Sakho and Aaron Cresswell will be leading the
race for Hammer of the Year with Chiek Kouyate also in the frame. Sak's
first season has been immense and Cressy has shown extraordinary form since
stepping up from the Championship.
The Senegal midfielder has taken no time to settle at all and has produced
some magical moments – any one of the three would be a worthy winner.
But let me throw another name in there – a bloke who is probably the unsung
hero of unsung heroes who, all season, has poured his heart into things,
often without a regularly consistent partner.
Step up James Collins! Sure there have been moments when he has looked a
little suspect – the same can be said of us all – but in terms of heart and
no nonsense defending when required he has been superb.
There was a moment on Saturday evening against sunderland when – with the
boots flying – he went in to head clear of the flying feet, risking a
crunching boot in the head or even the loss of an eye.
Ok James has his limitations and doesn't bring it out from the back like
some but in terms of heart and defensive solidarity you won't find many more
committed to their club than their Welsh international.
The other contenders have been great but Collins has truly been awesome at
times
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Hammers still on Moyes' trail
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 24, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are refusing to give up on attracting David Moyes to the club as
Sam Allardyce's successor! The former Everton and Manchester United boss
yesterday revealed that he was very happy in Spain with Real Sociedad and
appeared to rule out a switch back to the Premier League. Asked if he would
be returning he said: 'I think someday I will. 'I've left when I didn't
expect to be leaving but what I've taken on is a great job. I love working
in Spain.' However, Hammers insiders are convinced he is simply saying what
he has to say and can't be expected to reveal any intentions he may have
elsewhere. The Hammers have made the 51 year old Scot their No 1 choice as
he fits the "Premier League experience and English speaking" criteria
perfectly. Irons co chairman David Sullivan is a fierce negotiator when he
sets his mind to an objective and won't be easily dissuaded by a Moyes radio
interview. ClaretandHugh was told: "They wanted him when he became available
from Manchester United and nothing has changed. "They will almost certainly
have had long chats with his s former head scout at Goodison and Hammers
recruitment director to the board Tony Henry about how and what he will
respond to. "And if David Sullivan has the bit between his teeth on this one
he could be a very hard man to resist."
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Tuesday, March 24
Daily WHUFC News - 24th March 2015
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce believes the international break has come at a good time for
his side following their 1-0 win over Sunderland. Diafra Sakho's late goal
secured a valuable victory for the Hammers in what was a tight affair at the
Boleyn Ground. Due to the international break, Allardyce's men have twelve
days to prepare for their visit to struggling Leicester City, by which time
the West Ham manager hopes to have a near to fully fit squad. "The break
comes at a good time because it gives us the opportunity to get Winston Reid
and Enner Valencia back fit. Carlton Cole obviously came back for 45 minutes
and I thought he did well. We want to push on for the last part of the
season and hopefully we win more games than we lose. "Saturday was a big win
especially considering some of the players we had missing. Hopefully we will
pick up a fair few points between now and the end of the season."
Having had a tough run of fixtures since the turn of the year, the Hammers
have struggled for points despite a run of good performances against some of
the best teams in the Premier League. Looking ahead to West Ham's final
eight games of the season, Allardyce is targeting a strong end to what has
been an impressive campaign. "We've only lost two games to teams below us in
the league and that in itself shows the season that we've had but also with
the games coming up it is a big opportunity to get more points on the board.
"Recently, the performances have been there but the results haven't been.
We're still in a great position, we're on 42 points which is what we got
last season and we're heading for our best points total since we've been
back in the Premier League."
While all his attentions are focused on the next game away at the Foxes on
Saturday 4 April, Allardyce is planning further improvements to the squad
during the summer. "This squad needs to grow and get better but before
that we need to finish the season off as well as we can. "At the end of the
season, we'll look at the squad and see what we've been capable of and why
we haven't been able to maintain it. Then we'll take the appropriate steps
to close that gap. "We want to build the club by bringing in more players
that can directly challenge the first team, that is the best way to improve
the squad."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
A win is a win and it's nice to score the winner in the last minute for the
first time this season after losing a number points in the latter stages of
games recently. I think overall we were the better team but it wasn't a
memorable performance, which is understandable considering the injuries
we've had. Our reserve central defender Doneil Henry got injured at
Blackburn, meaning one of our most important midfielders, Cheik Kouyate, had
to fill in as a central defender.
So the defence is weakened and so is the midfield. We're also missing one of
our best forwards in Enner Valencia, so for me if we had Valencia and
Winston Reid playing it would make all the difference. It would then release
Kouyate to midfield and allows Valencia to partner Sakho up front. Sakho
runs relentlessly but on his own doesn't have the impact he has when
Valencia is running with him. With just those two players we'd have a
totally different team.
Sakho is probably one of the best headers in the division but all of his
headers are going just wide at the moment. He had a fabulous header on
Saturday that went literally six inches wide. On another day that hits the
back of the net and it's labelled an unbelievable header.
But when his chance came in the dying minutes he took it and that's what a
good striker does to get his team the three points. He steadied himself and
made it looks easy, which it certainly wasn't.
At the other end I also thought we defended very well. Collins was
outstanding and Kouyate did well considering he was out of position. We need
to get back in the habit of keeping clean sheets again and hopefully
Saturday can be the start of a lean period for opposing strikers.
Come on you Irons!
David Sullivan
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Sean Maguire scored for Accrington Stanley in the 2-2 draw at home with York
City. The attack-minded midfielder pounced on a loose ball in the box to
level the proceedings after Luke Summerfield had opened the scoring five
minutes earlier. Jake Hyde looked to have sealed the win for York however
Josh Windass equalised in the 90th minute.
Tim Brown played the full game in Canvey Island's 1-0 away defeat to Harrow
Borough.
Modibo Maiga came on in the 46th minute in FC Metz' 0-0 draw away at Caen.
The Malian striker replaced Gaetan Bussmann at half-time.
Paul McCallum played 25 minutes of Portsmouth's 1-0 defeat at AFC Wimbledon.
Ben Chorley's sixth minute own goal proved to be the difference between the
two sides, McCallum came on in the 65th minute, replacing James Dunne.
Raphael Spiegel was an unused substitute in Carlisle United's 1-1 draw with
Morecambe. Brad Potts opened the scoring in the 53rd minute with a 25-yard
drive. Morecamble rescued a point from the penalty spot as Padraig Amond
sent Dan Hanford the wrong way.
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Downing's European dream
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing says 'Europe is still an option' after West Ham United
ground out a 1-0 Barclays Premier League win over Sunderland.
A first win in eight league matches lifted the Hammers back above Stoke City
into ninth place on 42 points with eight games still to play.
With six of those eight against teams currently in the bottom half, Downing
is seeking a strong finish that could see West Ham sneak into the UEFA
Europa League places. Meanwhile, Sam Allardyce's side are still top of the
Premier League Fair Play Table, the Club may have a secondary route into
continental competition too. "All teams have dips in the season and ours was
over the period we've just had," said the midfielder. "The most important
thing was winning and I feel it can put us onto another streak like we had
before. "Obviously you can't play well every week and I don't think it was
about that on Saturday, it was just about getting the points. "We're ninth
with a lot to play for. We have still got Stoke to play and we've got
Leicester away next, so there are a lot of winnable games for us to pick up
points from and Europe is still an option. "I think Europe is still there.
If you look at the games we have got to play, I think there are a lot of
points to pick up. You keep going right to the end, because a lot of the
teams have nothing to play for and they switch off and that's not our aim.
"Our aim this year is to get in Europe. I don't think tenth place is good
enough. We need to aim higher than that and I think we've got the players to
do it."
Focusing on Saturday's victory, which was secured through Diafra Sakho's
neatly-taken 88th-minute strike, Downing felt West Ham were value for the
three points. At times, Sunderland made things frustratingly difficult for
the home side in their first match under new head coach Dick Advocaat, but
thanks in part to Downing's all-round performance in a variety of positions,
the hosts finally made the breakthrough. "I think it was just one of those
games," said the No11. "They've been struggling and we've been on a bad run,
so it was just about getting the win. The goal came at a good time and it
was a great finish. I'm not sure if it was a foul [by Nene], but it was a
great finish. "It was difficult for us because they put men behind the ball
and tried to hit us on the counter, so it was hard for us to get through
them at times. Obviously they've got bid lads at the back, so we tried to
change the system and get in behind them a bit more. "We got a bit of luck
but I think we were due a little bit. We were better in the second half,
definitely, and looked more likely to score and Sakho got the all-important
goal at the end, which was massive for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
International round-up
WHUFC.com
While West Ham United may not have another first-team fixture until we
travel to Leicester City on Saturday 4 April, a number of Hammers players
will fill their international break.
James Collins is in the Wales squad for their vital Euro 2016 qualifier with
Israel in Haifa on Saturday 28 March. For more on this game, turn to page 22
for an in-depth interview with Collins.
Cheikhou Kouyate is in the Senegal squad for their friendly with Avram
Grant's Ghana in the French city of Le Havre on the same evening.
Fitness allowing, Winston Reid will travel to Seoul to represent New Zealand
against South Korea on Tuesday 31 March.
At age-group level, Diego Poyet could make his Uruguay U20 debut against
France in Clairefontaine on Thursday 26 March, followed by friendly matches
against Uzbekistan and Portugal in Coimbra, Portugal on Sunday 29 March and
Tuesday 31 March respectively.
Carl Jenkinson has been named in Gareth Southgate's England U21 squad for
their friendlies against the Czech Republic and Germany. The Young Lions are
preparing for this summer's UEFA European U21 Championship in the Czech
Republic so meetings with two of their fellow finalists is sure to prove a
useful exercise.
England U21 are first in action on Friday 27 March when they travel to the
Czech Republic, then welcome Germany to Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium
the following Monday for a 7.45pm kick-off.
Reece Oxford captained England U17s to a 3-1 win in their opening European
Championship Elite Round qualifier with Norway at Burton on Saturday. The
Young Lions will hope to complete the job of qualifying for the finals in
Bulgaria in May when they host Slovenia (Chesterfield, Tuesday 24 March) and
Romania (Burton, Thursday 26 March).
Sam Howes is in the England U18 squad for two friendly matches with
Switzerland in Telford and Walsall. The first fixture will be played behind
closed doors, but the second will be played at the Banks's Stadium at 5.30pm
on Saturday 28 March, with tickets available by calling 01922 651414.
Josh Cullen has joined up with the Republic of Ireland U19 squad for their
European Championship Elite Round qualifiers with Czech Republic (Mannheim,
Thursday 26 March), mini-group hosts Germany (Sandhausen, Saturday 28 March)
and Slovakia (Mannheim, Tuesday 31 March)
Elsewhere, Kevin Nolan is playing in an All-Star Charity Match at Anfield on
29 March after being picked by fellow Liverpudlian Steven Gerrard.
Guy Demel will play in a Testimonial match for former Hamburger SV teammate
David Jarolim in Germany on 28 March.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Team Behind The Team
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Medical and Sports Science department has long been at the
forefront of innovation when it comes to helping players recover after
matches. One method used by the Club in recent seasons has been whole body
cryotherapy – a temperature controlled chamber used for treatment of muscle
injuries and for faster recovery during congested periods of the football
season. Whole body cryotherapy works by exposing the players briefly to an
extremely cold environment in temperature controlled chambers, inside which
the temperature is maintained at levels up to -1,400C.
The Hammers have had a busy fixture list in recent months with 17 matches
being played since Christmas, and some fixtures being within 48 hours of
each other. During these games players can cover large distances of up 13km
in each game – most of which is covered via walking and jogging however,
players can perform up to 1,400 'forceful activities' in a 90 minute match
such as; accelerations, decelerations, turning, jumping, tackling and
kicking.
This large physical exertion throughout busy periods of the fixture list
poses greater injury risks and can lead to reductions in performance through
fatigue, so naturally is a concern for the Medical and Sports Science
department. With that in mind, and with a lack of available information
about whole body cryotherapy, West Ham are undertaking a ground-breaking
study into its benefits in helping players recover and replenish after
matches.
West Ham's study is being led by sports scientist Jack Birch – the latest in
a line of Swansea University graduates to join the Hammers, following
fitness coach Eamon Swift and sports scientists Tommy Taylor and Matt Evans.
Birch explained that the Club is leading the way in conducting research into
the use of innovative recovery methods in football. "As we cannot control a
player's movement during a football match, our study uses a protocol that
allows us to replicate the demands of a football match," he began. "So, for
our protocol, we have used a repeated sprint test with controlled rest
periods in between each sprint. After each sprint, there is a zone where
players must decelerate quickly and come to a halt." "Previous research has
shown that the majority of reduced performance and fatigue in football
happens during repeated sprints and high intensity efforts so that is the
key reason for this setup". In the long term, we are looking to evaluate the
use of whole body cryotherapy as a recovery protocol, as there is minimal
literature available in this area at the moment, especially relating to its
use within professional football players."
The logical question to ask Birch is 'How will you know whether whole body
cryotherapy works?' The answer is that he is putting volunteers from the
Club's Development Squad through a game related protocol, followed by either
the extreme cold exposure of whole body cryotherapy or the more traditional
method of passive recovery. "We will measure a variety of physiological,
psychological and performance based variables at different timepoints
throughout a set recovery period in the players," Birch explained. "This
will allow us to determine the possible benefits whole body cryotherapy can
have on our players after a game."
"Currently following a match, football players use a range of methods to
recover but we are trying to determine the optimal recovery strategies for
our players post match, and so this research allows us to understand whether
we can enhance our current protocols using the latest methods."
Birch is being aided in his study by his colleagues from West Ham's Medical
and Sports Science department and Swansea University, where he is currently
studying for a Masters by Research (MRes) under the guidance of Prof. Liam
Kilduff. Naturally, Birch hopes his findings will be taken on by football
clubs all over the country and beyond – helping him to secure a position at
West Ham United for years to come. "My background is similar to my fellow
sports scientist here at West Ham, Tom Taylor. We both completed our sports
science degrees at Swansea University and have both conducted a Masters by
Research alongside our internship with West Ham."
Like his colleague and fellow Swansea graduate, Birch hails from the South
West, where he grew up catching waves off the North Devon coast near his
home village of Braunton. "I am from Devon and although I grew up playing
football, the main sport in my life was actually surfing because I lived
right near the coast," he explained. "I competed as a surfer and a
footballer when I was younger, and couldn't imagine my life without sport
which made me realise I wanted to pursue a career within it, because I
couldn't see myself doing anything else. "I chose to go to Swansea
University because I knew it had an excellent Sports Science reputation and
it was near the coast so I could keep surfing, which was the perfect
combination for me!
"Overall my time in Swansea worked out perfectly and propelled me into an
amazing position as a sports scientist at West Ham, which I am hugely
enjoying. Long may it continue! COYI."
The Swansea link
West Ham United has built up a strong link with Swansea University in recent
years. The South Wales institution has a reputation for running one of the
best Sports and Exercise Science faculties in the UK – and the Hammers have
taken full advantage. The Club's fitness coach Eamon Swift, sports scientist
Tom Taylor and sports science intern Jack Birch all studied or study under
the expert guidance of associate professor Dr Liam Kilduff. A fourth, sports
scientist Matt Evans, spent three seasons with West Ham before returning to
his native Wales to work with the Welsh Rugby Union.
Prof. Kilduff is proud of the close association between the University and
the Hammers. "Over the last number of years we have built up a very strong
collaborative partnership with West Ham," he confirmed. "The medical and
sports science staff at the Club are very proactive in trying to ensure the
players are in the best possible shape come matchday and exploring the
potential benefits of cryotherapy is a great example of this. "With a number
of our graduates now working at West Ham and with our reputation for
completing research that is highly relevant and impacting in elite sport, it
is a partnership that will continue to grow and benefit both organisations."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jack Collison: Ex-West Ham player vows to make comeback
By Chris Osborne
BBC Sport
Former West Ham midfielder Jack Collison has vowed to return to football and
has not given up on his international career with Wales.
The 26-year-old is without a club after struggling with a knee injury, and
has not played a game since May. I've decided to take a bit of time out to
make sure I've recovered from injuries," he told BBC Sport. I'm going to
wait until pre-season and try and get back into it at the start of next
year." Collison, who played 121 times for the Hammers over eight years,
signed a short-term deal with Ipswich Town in September, but did not make an
appearance for the Suffolk club. His career has been hampered by a
persistent knee problem, which restricts the amount of training he can do
between games. But the Cambridge United youth product has not ruled out the
possibility of adding to his 16 Wales caps. "If I can get back performing to
a good level, I don't see any reason why I can't try and force my way back
in," he said. "It might take a year. it might take two years. I love playing
for Wales. Who wouldn't want to play international football?" Collison said
he had received offers from clubs to play until the end of the season, but
will consider his options in the summer. Teams such as MK Dons or
Peterborough United could be possibilities, with the Bedfordshire-raised
midfielder keen to stay in the area. Meanwhile, Collison is spending time
coaching youngsters in Bedford and Peterborough, and says it is a viable
alternative to playing. "It's giving me a lot of joy. I'm looking to give
something back to the communities, particularly at grassroots level," he
added. "I get more enjoyment out of working with the kids than I have with
almost anything over the last few months."
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Hammers linked with Austrian midfielder
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd March 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for Austrian international midfielder
Julian Baumgartlinger. The 27-year-old, Salzburg-born, ball-winning
midfielder has been scouted by West Ham for a number of weeks and is one on
the radar for this summer's transfer window. Out of contract in the summer,
Baumgartlinger - who currently plays for Mainz in the Bundesliga - has been
capped 30 times and is interesting a number of parties across Europe. He is
being viewed as a potential replacement for Alex Song, who appears no closer
to signing a permanent deal with West Ham than when talks broke down last
month, as exclusively revealed here on KUMB earier this month.
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DG delighted with "outstanding" Sakho
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold expressed his delight and relief at the 1-0 victory over
Sunderland following Saturday evening's game. It was one of the toughest
scraps of the season and not pretty but with the cliche "win ugly" seemingly
fashionable we can all now look forward to the blinding finish which the
manager and players seem to believe may be on. The co chairman took to
Twitter to express his relief and delight at a victory which lifts the club
into ninth place with Leicester City up next after the international break.
He tweeted: "Our luck changed today and we won with a last minute goal for
the first time this season from the outstanding Diafra Sakho. dg"
Meanwhile DG has set up a new FB page which he is encouraging people to take
a look at. it can be found at https://www.facebook.com/DavidGold123 where he
writes: "I now have a public facebook page for everyone to see. Please share
the link. dg"
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Moyes rules out move home
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Moyes has made it clear he won't be arriving at West Ham or any other
Premier League in the immediate near future. The Scot – in an outspoken
interview – has made it clear that he believes the English League is in
decline. And speaking on BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme he said
he has no intention or desire to make an immediate return to England. Asked
the question he declared: 'I think someday I will. 'I've left when I didn't
expect to be leaving but what I've taken on is a great job. I love working
in Spain.'
Of the League itself he said: 'It's not been too long ago where we were
looked at as probably having the best teams, and it does change.
'Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal are all exceptional teams in their own
right and they'll be disappointed they went out, (of the Champions league)
and maybe on another day they'd have gone through. 'It's just becoming a wee
bit of a habit that we're not getting our teams quite as close to the final
as we had in the past. 'I think this year you'd have to say it's probably
the poorest Premier League I've seen in a long, long time. 'Maybe we do go
over the top and recently we have maybe talked up the Premier League more
than what it's actually been. There's other leagues which are certainly now
comparable.'
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Looking back: Sullivan's early thoughts
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Way back in November 2014 – after a tearaway start to the Irons season – the
club's co-chairman David Sullivan consented to an exclusive question and
answer session with ClaretandHugh. He spoke of the early progress, his
hopes, and expectations and touched on the trickiest and long longest
running saga of them all – the manager and the pro and anti brigades he
attracts. Much water – some clear and some murky – has flowed under the
Boleyn Bridge since then but sometimes it's a good idea to look back and rem
ind ourselves of what's already on the record but perhaps forgotten. So with
the international break ahead of us, a much needed victory behind us and
Leicester City in front of us, lets recall what DS wanted back then along
with his views on the thorniest issue of all.
CandH Have you been surprised at the progress we have made this season?
DS: Yes and No, in reality its too early to say the progress we have made,
the season is 38 games not 11. HOWEVER, we are scoring a lot more goals and
playing much better football.
CandH: You put situations in place – a closer cooperation with manager on
transfer budget, attacking coach etc – that appears to have worked – would
you agree?
DS: Sadly, its too earely to say, but the signs are promising
CandH: It's a very open Premier League so far – is there any reason for us
not to be thinking of European football next year
DS: I said at the start of the season that our target should be European
competition. Six teams, other than Chelsea, are not sucking the points out
of the table as they usually do.
CandH: I know it's early days but would Diafra Sakho rate No 1 on your all
time list of best buys right now.
DS:Right now yes, but judge him over the season
CandH: There's been a lot of talk about Andy Carroll's future – can you
tell us the true situation.
DS: He's a very important member of the squad. He was sensational when he
came on Saturday.
CandH: Can you confirm that there are no escape clauses in the deals of our
new signings – notably Diafra and Enner.
DS: No escape clauses
CandH: Can you update us on Winston Reid – the general view seems to be
pessimistic.
DS: We are still in discussion with his agent
CandH: What's the position on FFP.
DS: We have a wage cap this season for all players, including 124% employers
NI of *£56m. Next year it goes to £60m. You can only exceed that figure if
you increase NON TV income or make a profit selling players. We are right on
the limit.
(*This includes all win and positional bonuses)
CandH: There seems to be a constant war between the pro and anti Sam
brigades. Do you have a message for them?
DS: People are entitled to their opinions. We live in a democracy. I'd say
'judge him over the season.'
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Noble runs for miles
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Mark Noble was the team's busiest player of those on parade in Saturday's
game against Sunderland. According to stats produced by top Twitter source –
@EPLStatman -the midlfielder covered more distance than any other player
from either team. Nobes completed an extraordinary 7.3 miles and coupled
with his pass completion rate had strong claims for the man of the match
award. In the first half every one on his 23 passes found their target
although the same source reveals that Diafra Sakho managed to only complete
three of 12 in the first 45 minutes.
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New West Ham Way is on the cards
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
By Rich Sprent
Claret & Hugh
The criteria the board are imposing in their search for a new manager tells
a story. It's one that is restrictive if pragmatic. And yet if you look at
the candidates spoken about it shows a plan in operation. Out go exciting
coaches like Christophe Galtier and Frank De Boer. Neither have experience
of the Premier League. The shopping list has thus far apparently included
Rafa Benitez, David Moyes and Slaven Bilic.
All three are excellent coaches and produce similar teams. defensive minded,
strong and progressive. Many won't agree but Sam Allardyce shares their
footballing principles. Replacing him however, removes the baggage of having
split the fanbase so divisively. The three on the list would evolve West Ham
rather than revolutionise us.
Many have quoted a West Ham way. This ain't that. With the coaches
mentioned, they all have the ability to begin a legacy. They will have the
benefit of money being invested into the playing squad with the goal of year
on year progression. Southampton are lauded for the way they've begun their
legacy program.
Their next coach will have been lined up should Koeman move on. Investment
in youth, players bought to fit into the system, the coaching and
recruitment principles are all well stated. They appear to be the model of a
progressive football club.
The shopping list criteria from the Dave's precludes any emerging talent. No
rookie bosses who may have a different view of how to play. I know that this
website's owner much admires Roberto Martinez. Roberto is an idealist and I
see many comparisons to his coaching style as that of Ron Greenwood.
He is almost inflexible in his footballing principles. His players even
reportedly begged him to let them play longer passes more often. Defence
first is not an option for Roberto as it wasn't for Ron. Any coach of his
ilk will not be considered by the current board. That 40 point mark won't
ever be a risk for the board. This season's target was 56pts and is still
achievable.
So it appears that there is a new West Ham way being instilled with the
recruitment perhaps being overseen by Tony Henry.
The Academy is being overhauled which is tough on the U21 players who may
have had an outside chance of making it with the club. Sam carries the can
for this but it's something deeper. There are little risks being taken. The
known targeted managers all have similar skillsets. It's to be evolution and
certainly no revolution.
As much as I would like to see us go for Eddie Howe or Christophe Galtier
neither fit this new set of ideals in place for the soon to be E20 legacy.
The football should improve with the investment in the squad. The dream to
be self sufficient through the academy is always there. Having better
players will help take that pressure off once they can break into the team.
The plan appears to be very business like. Very pragmatic. It's to be much
admired and I'm not moaning. If it's applied then we become better year on
year and should compete for Europe from next season. Thinking back to
Greenwood however and the legacy does maybe lack a little soul.
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Irons reluctant to risk Reid
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Winston Reid looks unlikely to join the New Zealand squad for their clash
against South Korea during the international break. Although the central
defender is on the mend from a hamstring injury, Hammers medics believe
there's too much of a risk in him being launched into action before he's
properly healed. New Zealand coach Anthony Hudson is a pal of Sam
Allardyce's and is being kept in touch with the situation ahead of the
friendly in Seoul. But the Hammers boss is likely to err on the side of the
caution given his current injury problems to ensure that Reid is 100 per
cent fit for the clash against Leicester. A Hammers source revealed to
ClaretandHugh that the club want him to stay at home insisting he needs more
time to recover from the injury to ensure his presence in the team for
Leicester on April 4. He said: "It's an unnecessary risk. If he plays too
soon it could put him out for longer." But the Kiwis boss said: "Winston is
our captain and leader and we will continue to monitor his situation
closely."
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Allardyce drops hint about summer transfer strategy at West Ham
HITC
John Verrall
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is already thinking about making
additions to his squad. West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has told
TalkSPORT that he intends to bring in first-team players during the summer
transfer window. The Hammers boss is determined to raise the quality of his
squad and only wants additions that can make an immediate impression on the
side's starting XI. "We want to build the club by bringing in more players
that can directly challenge the first team, that is the best way to improve
the squad," he said. It suggests that Allardyce's current approach is more
of a short-term one, rather than one which looks towards the future, and it
mirrors the policy that the club had in the previous summer transfer window.
The Hammers signed a number of players designed to go straight into their
senior squad, and they have felt the benefit of that this season. Although
West Ham's form has dipped slightly more recently, they have still put
together one of their more impressive campaigns in recent memory and have
plenty to build upon. For Allardyce to already be commenting on transfer
targets suggests that he believes his future lies at the Boleyn Ground. The
experienced boss has been tipped to be heading towards the exit at West Ham
by the Daily Mail, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, but
it seems that he is expecting to be handed a new deal.
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Will there ever be a West Ham homecoming for this legend?
By Harry Burford - Mar 23, 2015
http://westhamworld.co.uk/
Even midway through this season's domestic campaign – over seven years on
from when the stocky Argentine striker first departed the east end in more
than cloudy circumstances – West Ham United have seemingly been unable to
detach themselves from the numerous transfer reports linking Carlos Tevez
with a sensational move back to Upton Park.
And for good reason too. El Apache, as the 31-year-old Juventus forward has
been lovingly nicknamed back home in South America, simply goes down as one
of greatest Hammers favourites of the modern era. His well-documented trials
and tribulations in the claret & blue have been recorded forever in West Ham
folklore for future generations of Irons fans to sit back and ponder upon.
Even if his initial partner in crime down in the east end – the now
30-year-old Barcelona dynamo Javier Mascherano – didn't quite gel in the
same way Tevez did with the Upton Park faithful, such a dramatic period in
West Ham's recent endeavours will likely not be forgotten by the rest of the
Premier League any time soon.
In light of these latest, and albeit predictable, transfer stories linking
the club back to the highly coveted Argentinean, just how likely would
another out of the blue move for Carlos Tevez really be for David Gold and
David Sullivan in the run up to West Ham's final year at the Boleyn Ground?
Whilst such a sensational turn of events would likely come as a great
pleasure to the majority of the Upton Park faithful, in reality this move
looks to be in the same place that it always has been – unlikely at best.
Carlitos is undeniably a top player. He has a turn of pace better than most
of his counterparts in the modern game, a certain unique tenacity that has
seen several defenders fall short of besting the talented forward – and
although the striker took a while to get off the mark with the Hammers all
the way back in 2006/07 – Tevez ultimately commands a clear goal-scoring
threat when given the adequate freedom up top.
As the former Manchester United and City man still has a reputation as one
of the top players in his field at the moment however, it ultimately seems
too unlikely that our former no. 32 will ever be pulling on the Hammers
shirt in a competitive fixture again.
He isn't short of game time at the moment, still has a good few years left
in the tank to do the business at the very top, and certainly wouldn't be
lacking in high profile suitors should the player eventually decide to leave
Serie A.
Combined with the fact that West Ham definitely wouldn't be in a position to
afford his potentially hefty wages, Carlos Tevez didn't have the best of
times off the pitch whilst playing in England last time around – so any
illustrious return to the Premier League just doesn't seem like it's ever
going to happen.
That said, the Hammers may as well give it a go and try to bring the former
fan-favourite back to Upton Park. Yes, the club have no real reason to
believe such a deal would ever go through – but as no one within the
footballing community ever expected either Tevez or Mascherano to sign under
Alan Pardew in the first place – you can simply never say never when it
comes to West Ham.
Some will say he's not worth it because of the subsequent compensation that
had to be issued to Sheffield United as a result of his arrival. Many may
elude to the suggestion that he's not a real Hammers legend because he was
only at the club for one season.
There may even be those who resent Carlos Tevez for using West Ham as a
stepping stone and ultimately moving onto bigger and better things – but if
the opportunity arises for the club to somehow get their hands back on
Carlos Tevez in the run up to the Olympic Stadium move – such an audacious
transfer should be welcomed with open arms.
As we have all likely seen the end of Carlos Tevez as a West Ham player
however, perhaps now would be a good time to cast an eye over our current
batch of potential stars, and take a look at which players have what it
takes to become the next Hammers heroes throughout the foreseeable future.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce believes the international break has come at a good time for
his side following their 1-0 win over Sunderland. Diafra Sakho's late goal
secured a valuable victory for the Hammers in what was a tight affair at the
Boleyn Ground. Due to the international break, Allardyce's men have twelve
days to prepare for their visit to struggling Leicester City, by which time
the West Ham manager hopes to have a near to fully fit squad. "The break
comes at a good time because it gives us the opportunity to get Winston Reid
and Enner Valencia back fit. Carlton Cole obviously came back for 45 minutes
and I thought he did well. We want to push on for the last part of the
season and hopefully we win more games than we lose. "Saturday was a big win
especially considering some of the players we had missing. Hopefully we will
pick up a fair few points between now and the end of the season."
Having had a tough run of fixtures since the turn of the year, the Hammers
have struggled for points despite a run of good performances against some of
the best teams in the Premier League. Looking ahead to West Ham's final
eight games of the season, Allardyce is targeting a strong end to what has
been an impressive campaign. "We've only lost two games to teams below us in
the league and that in itself shows the season that we've had but also with
the games coming up it is a big opportunity to get more points on the board.
"Recently, the performances have been there but the results haven't been.
We're still in a great position, we're on 42 points which is what we got
last season and we're heading for our best points total since we've been
back in the Premier League."
While all his attentions are focused on the next game away at the Foxes on
Saturday 4 April, Allardyce is planning further improvements to the squad
during the summer. "This squad needs to grow and get better but before
that we need to finish the season off as well as we can. "At the end of the
season, we'll look at the squad and see what we've been capable of and why
we haven't been able to maintain it. Then we'll take the appropriate steps
to close that gap. "We want to build the club by bringing in more players
that can directly challenge the first team, that is the best way to improve
the squad."
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From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
A win is a win and it's nice to score the winner in the last minute for the
first time this season after losing a number points in the latter stages of
games recently. I think overall we were the better team but it wasn't a
memorable performance, which is understandable considering the injuries
we've had. Our reserve central defender Doneil Henry got injured at
Blackburn, meaning one of our most important midfielders, Cheik Kouyate, had
to fill in as a central defender.
So the defence is weakened and so is the midfield. We're also missing one of
our best forwards in Enner Valencia, so for me if we had Valencia and
Winston Reid playing it would make all the difference. It would then release
Kouyate to midfield and allows Valencia to partner Sakho up front. Sakho
runs relentlessly but on his own doesn't have the impact he has when
Valencia is running with him. With just those two players we'd have a
totally different team.
Sakho is probably one of the best headers in the division but all of his
headers are going just wide at the moment. He had a fabulous header on
Saturday that went literally six inches wide. On another day that hits the
back of the net and it's labelled an unbelievable header.
But when his chance came in the dying minutes he took it and that's what a
good striker does to get his team the three points. He steadied himself and
made it looks easy, which it certainly wasn't.
At the other end I also thought we defended very well. Collins was
outstanding and Kouyate did well considering he was out of position. We need
to get back in the habit of keeping clean sheets again and hopefully
Saturday can be the start of a lean period for opposing strikers.
Come on you Irons!
David Sullivan
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Sean Maguire scored for Accrington Stanley in the 2-2 draw at home with York
City. The attack-minded midfielder pounced on a loose ball in the box to
level the proceedings after Luke Summerfield had opened the scoring five
minutes earlier. Jake Hyde looked to have sealed the win for York however
Josh Windass equalised in the 90th minute.
Tim Brown played the full game in Canvey Island's 1-0 away defeat to Harrow
Borough.
Modibo Maiga came on in the 46th minute in FC Metz' 0-0 draw away at Caen.
The Malian striker replaced Gaetan Bussmann at half-time.
Paul McCallum played 25 minutes of Portsmouth's 1-0 defeat at AFC Wimbledon.
Ben Chorley's sixth minute own goal proved to be the difference between the
two sides, McCallum came on in the 65th minute, replacing James Dunne.
Raphael Spiegel was an unused substitute in Carlisle United's 1-1 draw with
Morecambe. Brad Potts opened the scoring in the 53rd minute with a 25-yard
drive. Morecamble rescued a point from the penalty spot as Padraig Amond
sent Dan Hanford the wrong way.
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Downing's European dream
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing says 'Europe is still an option' after West Ham United
ground out a 1-0 Barclays Premier League win over Sunderland.
A first win in eight league matches lifted the Hammers back above Stoke City
into ninth place on 42 points with eight games still to play.
With six of those eight against teams currently in the bottom half, Downing
is seeking a strong finish that could see West Ham sneak into the UEFA
Europa League places. Meanwhile, Sam Allardyce's side are still top of the
Premier League Fair Play Table, the Club may have a secondary route into
continental competition too. "All teams have dips in the season and ours was
over the period we've just had," said the midfielder. "The most important
thing was winning and I feel it can put us onto another streak like we had
before. "Obviously you can't play well every week and I don't think it was
about that on Saturday, it was just about getting the points. "We're ninth
with a lot to play for. We have still got Stoke to play and we've got
Leicester away next, so there are a lot of winnable games for us to pick up
points from and Europe is still an option. "I think Europe is still there.
If you look at the games we have got to play, I think there are a lot of
points to pick up. You keep going right to the end, because a lot of the
teams have nothing to play for and they switch off and that's not our aim.
"Our aim this year is to get in Europe. I don't think tenth place is good
enough. We need to aim higher than that and I think we've got the players to
do it."
Focusing on Saturday's victory, which was secured through Diafra Sakho's
neatly-taken 88th-minute strike, Downing felt West Ham were value for the
three points. At times, Sunderland made things frustratingly difficult for
the home side in their first match under new head coach Dick Advocaat, but
thanks in part to Downing's all-round performance in a variety of positions,
the hosts finally made the breakthrough. "I think it was just one of those
games," said the No11. "They've been struggling and we've been on a bad run,
so it was just about getting the win. The goal came at a good time and it
was a great finish. I'm not sure if it was a foul [by Nene], but it was a
great finish. "It was difficult for us because they put men behind the ball
and tried to hit us on the counter, so it was hard for us to get through
them at times. Obviously they've got bid lads at the back, so we tried to
change the system and get in behind them a bit more. "We got a bit of luck
but I think we were due a little bit. We were better in the second half,
definitely, and looked more likely to score and Sakho got the all-important
goal at the end, which was massive for us."
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International round-up
WHUFC.com
While West Ham United may not have another first-team fixture until we
travel to Leicester City on Saturday 4 April, a number of Hammers players
will fill their international break.
James Collins is in the Wales squad for their vital Euro 2016 qualifier with
Israel in Haifa on Saturday 28 March. For more on this game, turn to page 22
for an in-depth interview with Collins.
Cheikhou Kouyate is in the Senegal squad for their friendly with Avram
Grant's Ghana in the French city of Le Havre on the same evening.
Fitness allowing, Winston Reid will travel to Seoul to represent New Zealand
against South Korea on Tuesday 31 March.
At age-group level, Diego Poyet could make his Uruguay U20 debut against
France in Clairefontaine on Thursday 26 March, followed by friendly matches
against Uzbekistan and Portugal in Coimbra, Portugal on Sunday 29 March and
Tuesday 31 March respectively.
Carl Jenkinson has been named in Gareth Southgate's England U21 squad for
their friendlies against the Czech Republic and Germany. The Young Lions are
preparing for this summer's UEFA European U21 Championship in the Czech
Republic so meetings with two of their fellow finalists is sure to prove a
useful exercise.
England U21 are first in action on Friday 27 March when they travel to the
Czech Republic, then welcome Germany to Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium
the following Monday for a 7.45pm kick-off.
Reece Oxford captained England U17s to a 3-1 win in their opening European
Championship Elite Round qualifier with Norway at Burton on Saturday. The
Young Lions will hope to complete the job of qualifying for the finals in
Bulgaria in May when they host Slovenia (Chesterfield, Tuesday 24 March) and
Romania (Burton, Thursday 26 March).
Sam Howes is in the England U18 squad for two friendly matches with
Switzerland in Telford and Walsall. The first fixture will be played behind
closed doors, but the second will be played at the Banks's Stadium at 5.30pm
on Saturday 28 March, with tickets available by calling 01922 651414.
Josh Cullen has joined up with the Republic of Ireland U19 squad for their
European Championship Elite Round qualifiers with Czech Republic (Mannheim,
Thursday 26 March), mini-group hosts Germany (Sandhausen, Saturday 28 March)
and Slovakia (Mannheim, Tuesday 31 March)
Elsewhere, Kevin Nolan is playing in an All-Star Charity Match at Anfield on
29 March after being picked by fellow Liverpudlian Steven Gerrard.
Guy Demel will play in a Testimonial match for former Hamburger SV teammate
David Jarolim in Germany on 28 March.
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Team Behind The Team
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Medical and Sports Science department has long been at the
forefront of innovation when it comes to helping players recover after
matches. One method used by the Club in recent seasons has been whole body
cryotherapy – a temperature controlled chamber used for treatment of muscle
injuries and for faster recovery during congested periods of the football
season. Whole body cryotherapy works by exposing the players briefly to an
extremely cold environment in temperature controlled chambers, inside which
the temperature is maintained at levels up to -1,400C.
The Hammers have had a busy fixture list in recent months with 17 matches
being played since Christmas, and some fixtures being within 48 hours of
each other. During these games players can cover large distances of up 13km
in each game – most of which is covered via walking and jogging however,
players can perform up to 1,400 'forceful activities' in a 90 minute match
such as; accelerations, decelerations, turning, jumping, tackling and
kicking.
This large physical exertion throughout busy periods of the fixture list
poses greater injury risks and can lead to reductions in performance through
fatigue, so naturally is a concern for the Medical and Sports Science
department. With that in mind, and with a lack of available information
about whole body cryotherapy, West Ham are undertaking a ground-breaking
study into its benefits in helping players recover and replenish after
matches.
West Ham's study is being led by sports scientist Jack Birch – the latest in
a line of Swansea University graduates to join the Hammers, following
fitness coach Eamon Swift and sports scientists Tommy Taylor and Matt Evans.
Birch explained that the Club is leading the way in conducting research into
the use of innovative recovery methods in football. "As we cannot control a
player's movement during a football match, our study uses a protocol that
allows us to replicate the demands of a football match," he began. "So, for
our protocol, we have used a repeated sprint test with controlled rest
periods in between each sprint. After each sprint, there is a zone where
players must decelerate quickly and come to a halt." "Previous research has
shown that the majority of reduced performance and fatigue in football
happens during repeated sprints and high intensity efforts so that is the
key reason for this setup". In the long term, we are looking to evaluate the
use of whole body cryotherapy as a recovery protocol, as there is minimal
literature available in this area at the moment, especially relating to its
use within professional football players."
The logical question to ask Birch is 'How will you know whether whole body
cryotherapy works?' The answer is that he is putting volunteers from the
Club's Development Squad through a game related protocol, followed by either
the extreme cold exposure of whole body cryotherapy or the more traditional
method of passive recovery. "We will measure a variety of physiological,
psychological and performance based variables at different timepoints
throughout a set recovery period in the players," Birch explained. "This
will allow us to determine the possible benefits whole body cryotherapy can
have on our players after a game."
"Currently following a match, football players use a range of methods to
recover but we are trying to determine the optimal recovery strategies for
our players post match, and so this research allows us to understand whether
we can enhance our current protocols using the latest methods."
Birch is being aided in his study by his colleagues from West Ham's Medical
and Sports Science department and Swansea University, where he is currently
studying for a Masters by Research (MRes) under the guidance of Prof. Liam
Kilduff. Naturally, Birch hopes his findings will be taken on by football
clubs all over the country and beyond – helping him to secure a position at
West Ham United for years to come. "My background is similar to my fellow
sports scientist here at West Ham, Tom Taylor. We both completed our sports
science degrees at Swansea University and have both conducted a Masters by
Research alongside our internship with West Ham."
Like his colleague and fellow Swansea graduate, Birch hails from the South
West, where he grew up catching waves off the North Devon coast near his
home village of Braunton. "I am from Devon and although I grew up playing
football, the main sport in my life was actually surfing because I lived
right near the coast," he explained. "I competed as a surfer and a
footballer when I was younger, and couldn't imagine my life without sport
which made me realise I wanted to pursue a career within it, because I
couldn't see myself doing anything else. "I chose to go to Swansea
University because I knew it had an excellent Sports Science reputation and
it was near the coast so I could keep surfing, which was the perfect
combination for me!
"Overall my time in Swansea worked out perfectly and propelled me into an
amazing position as a sports scientist at West Ham, which I am hugely
enjoying. Long may it continue! COYI."
The Swansea link
West Ham United has built up a strong link with Swansea University in recent
years. The South Wales institution has a reputation for running one of the
best Sports and Exercise Science faculties in the UK – and the Hammers have
taken full advantage. The Club's fitness coach Eamon Swift, sports scientist
Tom Taylor and sports science intern Jack Birch all studied or study under
the expert guidance of associate professor Dr Liam Kilduff. A fourth, sports
scientist Matt Evans, spent three seasons with West Ham before returning to
his native Wales to work with the Welsh Rugby Union.
Prof. Kilduff is proud of the close association between the University and
the Hammers. "Over the last number of years we have built up a very strong
collaborative partnership with West Ham," he confirmed. "The medical and
sports science staff at the Club are very proactive in trying to ensure the
players are in the best possible shape come matchday and exploring the
potential benefits of cryotherapy is a great example of this. "With a number
of our graduates now working at West Ham and with our reputation for
completing research that is highly relevant and impacting in elite sport, it
is a partnership that will continue to grow and benefit both organisations."
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Jack Collison: Ex-West Ham player vows to make comeback
By Chris Osborne
BBC Sport
Former West Ham midfielder Jack Collison has vowed to return to football and
has not given up on his international career with Wales.
The 26-year-old is without a club after struggling with a knee injury, and
has not played a game since May. I've decided to take a bit of time out to
make sure I've recovered from injuries," he told BBC Sport. I'm going to
wait until pre-season and try and get back into it at the start of next
year." Collison, who played 121 times for the Hammers over eight years,
signed a short-term deal with Ipswich Town in September, but did not make an
appearance for the Suffolk club. His career has been hampered by a
persistent knee problem, which restricts the amount of training he can do
between games. But the Cambridge United youth product has not ruled out the
possibility of adding to his 16 Wales caps. "If I can get back performing to
a good level, I don't see any reason why I can't try and force my way back
in," he said. "It might take a year. it might take two years. I love playing
for Wales. Who wouldn't want to play international football?" Collison said
he had received offers from clubs to play until the end of the season, but
will consider his options in the summer. Teams such as MK Dons or
Peterborough United could be possibilities, with the Bedfordshire-raised
midfielder keen to stay in the area. Meanwhile, Collison is spending time
coaching youngsters in Bedford and Peterborough, and says it is a viable
alternative to playing. "It's giving me a lot of joy. I'm looking to give
something back to the communities, particularly at grassroots level," he
added. "I get more enjoyment out of working with the kids than I have with
almost anything over the last few months."
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Hammers linked with Austrian midfielder
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd March 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for Austrian international midfielder
Julian Baumgartlinger. The 27-year-old, Salzburg-born, ball-winning
midfielder has been scouted by West Ham for a number of weeks and is one on
the radar for this summer's transfer window. Out of contract in the summer,
Baumgartlinger - who currently plays for Mainz in the Bundesliga - has been
capped 30 times and is interesting a number of parties across Europe. He is
being viewed as a potential replacement for Alex Song, who appears no closer
to signing a permanent deal with West Ham than when talks broke down last
month, as exclusively revealed here on KUMB earier this month.
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DG delighted with "outstanding" Sakho
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold expressed his delight and relief at the 1-0 victory over
Sunderland following Saturday evening's game. It was one of the toughest
scraps of the season and not pretty but with the cliche "win ugly" seemingly
fashionable we can all now look forward to the blinding finish which the
manager and players seem to believe may be on. The co chairman took to
Twitter to express his relief and delight at a victory which lifts the club
into ninth place with Leicester City up next after the international break.
He tweeted: "Our luck changed today and we won with a last minute goal for
the first time this season from the outstanding Diafra Sakho. dg"
Meanwhile DG has set up a new FB page which he is encouraging people to take
a look at. it can be found at https://www.facebook.com/DavidGold123 where he
writes: "I now have a public facebook page for everyone to see. Please share
the link. dg"
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Moyes rules out move home
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Moyes has made it clear he won't be arriving at West Ham or any other
Premier League in the immediate near future. The Scot – in an outspoken
interview – has made it clear that he believes the English League is in
decline. And speaking on BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme he said
he has no intention or desire to make an immediate return to England. Asked
the question he declared: 'I think someday I will. 'I've left when I didn't
expect to be leaving but what I've taken on is a great job. I love working
in Spain.'
Of the League itself he said: 'It's not been too long ago where we were
looked at as probably having the best teams, and it does change.
'Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal are all exceptional teams in their own
right and they'll be disappointed they went out, (of the Champions league)
and maybe on another day they'd have gone through. 'It's just becoming a wee
bit of a habit that we're not getting our teams quite as close to the final
as we had in the past. 'I think this year you'd have to say it's probably
the poorest Premier League I've seen in a long, long time. 'Maybe we do go
over the top and recently we have maybe talked up the Premier League more
than what it's actually been. There's other leagues which are certainly now
comparable.'
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Looking back: Sullivan's early thoughts
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Way back in November 2014 – after a tearaway start to the Irons season – the
club's co-chairman David Sullivan consented to an exclusive question and
answer session with ClaretandHugh. He spoke of the early progress, his
hopes, and expectations and touched on the trickiest and long longest
running saga of them all – the manager and the pro and anti brigades he
attracts. Much water – some clear and some murky – has flowed under the
Boleyn Bridge since then but sometimes it's a good idea to look back and rem
ind ourselves of what's already on the record but perhaps forgotten. So with
the international break ahead of us, a much needed victory behind us and
Leicester City in front of us, lets recall what DS wanted back then along
with his views on the thorniest issue of all.
CandH Have you been surprised at the progress we have made this season?
DS: Yes and No, in reality its too early to say the progress we have made,
the season is 38 games not 11. HOWEVER, we are scoring a lot more goals and
playing much better football.
CandH: You put situations in place – a closer cooperation with manager on
transfer budget, attacking coach etc – that appears to have worked – would
you agree?
DS: Sadly, its too earely to say, but the signs are promising
CandH: It's a very open Premier League so far – is there any reason for us
not to be thinking of European football next year
DS: I said at the start of the season that our target should be European
competition. Six teams, other than Chelsea, are not sucking the points out
of the table as they usually do.
CandH: I know it's early days but would Diafra Sakho rate No 1 on your all
time list of best buys right now.
DS:Right now yes, but judge him over the season
CandH: There's been a lot of talk about Andy Carroll's future – can you
tell us the true situation.
DS: He's a very important member of the squad. He was sensational when he
came on Saturday.
CandH: Can you confirm that there are no escape clauses in the deals of our
new signings – notably Diafra and Enner.
DS: No escape clauses
CandH: Can you update us on Winston Reid – the general view seems to be
pessimistic.
DS: We are still in discussion with his agent
CandH: What's the position on FFP.
DS: We have a wage cap this season for all players, including 124% employers
NI of *£56m. Next year it goes to £60m. You can only exceed that figure if
you increase NON TV income or make a profit selling players. We are right on
the limit.
(*This includes all win and positional bonuses)
CandH: There seems to be a constant war between the pro and anti Sam
brigades. Do you have a message for them?
DS: People are entitled to their opinions. We live in a democracy. I'd say
'judge him over the season.'
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Noble runs for miles
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Mark Noble was the team's busiest player of those on parade in Saturday's
game against Sunderland. According to stats produced by top Twitter source –
@EPLStatman -the midlfielder covered more distance than any other player
from either team. Nobes completed an extraordinary 7.3 miles and coupled
with his pass completion rate had strong claims for the man of the match
award. In the first half every one on his 23 passes found their target
although the same source reveals that Diafra Sakho managed to only complete
three of 12 in the first 45 minutes.
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New West Ham Way is on the cards
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
By Rich Sprent
Claret & Hugh
The criteria the board are imposing in their search for a new manager tells
a story. It's one that is restrictive if pragmatic. And yet if you look at
the candidates spoken about it shows a plan in operation. Out go exciting
coaches like Christophe Galtier and Frank De Boer. Neither have experience
of the Premier League. The shopping list has thus far apparently included
Rafa Benitez, David Moyes and Slaven Bilic.
All three are excellent coaches and produce similar teams. defensive minded,
strong and progressive. Many won't agree but Sam Allardyce shares their
footballing principles. Replacing him however, removes the baggage of having
split the fanbase so divisively. The three on the list would evolve West Ham
rather than revolutionise us.
Many have quoted a West Ham way. This ain't that. With the coaches
mentioned, they all have the ability to begin a legacy. They will have the
benefit of money being invested into the playing squad with the goal of year
on year progression. Southampton are lauded for the way they've begun their
legacy program.
Their next coach will have been lined up should Koeman move on. Investment
in youth, players bought to fit into the system, the coaching and
recruitment principles are all well stated. They appear to be the model of a
progressive football club.
The shopping list criteria from the Dave's precludes any emerging talent. No
rookie bosses who may have a different view of how to play. I know that this
website's owner much admires Roberto Martinez. Roberto is an idealist and I
see many comparisons to his coaching style as that of Ron Greenwood.
He is almost inflexible in his footballing principles. His players even
reportedly begged him to let them play longer passes more often. Defence
first is not an option for Roberto as it wasn't for Ron. Any coach of his
ilk will not be considered by the current board. That 40 point mark won't
ever be a risk for the board. This season's target was 56pts and is still
achievable.
So it appears that there is a new West Ham way being instilled with the
recruitment perhaps being overseen by Tony Henry.
The Academy is being overhauled which is tough on the U21 players who may
have had an outside chance of making it with the club. Sam carries the can
for this but it's something deeper. There are little risks being taken. The
known targeted managers all have similar skillsets. It's to be evolution and
certainly no revolution.
As much as I would like to see us go for Eddie Howe or Christophe Galtier
neither fit this new set of ideals in place for the soon to be E20 legacy.
The football should improve with the investment in the squad. The dream to
be self sufficient through the academy is always there. Having better
players will help take that pressure off once they can break into the team.
The plan appears to be very business like. Very pragmatic. It's to be much
admired and I'm not moaning. If it's applied then we become better year on
year and should compete for Europe from next season. Thinking back to
Greenwood however and the legacy does maybe lack a little soul.
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Irons reluctant to risk Reid
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on March 23, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Winston Reid looks unlikely to join the New Zealand squad for their clash
against South Korea during the international break. Although the central
defender is on the mend from a hamstring injury, Hammers medics believe
there's too much of a risk in him being launched into action before he's
properly healed. New Zealand coach Anthony Hudson is a pal of Sam
Allardyce's and is being kept in touch with the situation ahead of the
friendly in Seoul. But the Hammers boss is likely to err on the side of the
caution given his current injury problems to ensure that Reid is 100 per
cent fit for the clash against Leicester. A Hammers source revealed to
ClaretandHugh that the club want him to stay at home insisting he needs more
time to recover from the injury to ensure his presence in the team for
Leicester on April 4. He said: "It's an unnecessary risk. If he plays too
soon it could put him out for longer." But the Kiwis boss said: "Winston is
our captain and leader and we will continue to monitor his situation
closely."
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Allardyce drops hint about summer transfer strategy at West Ham
HITC
John Verrall
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is already thinking about making
additions to his squad. West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has told
TalkSPORT that he intends to bring in first-team players during the summer
transfer window. The Hammers boss is determined to raise the quality of his
squad and only wants additions that can make an immediate impression on the
side's starting XI. "We want to build the club by bringing in more players
that can directly challenge the first team, that is the best way to improve
the squad," he said. It suggests that Allardyce's current approach is more
of a short-term one, rather than one which looks towards the future, and it
mirrors the policy that the club had in the previous summer transfer window.
The Hammers signed a number of players designed to go straight into their
senior squad, and they have felt the benefit of that this season. Although
West Ham's form has dipped slightly more recently, they have still put
together one of their more impressive campaigns in recent memory and have
plenty to build upon. For Allardyce to already be commenting on transfer
targets suggests that he believes his future lies at the Boleyn Ground. The
experienced boss has been tipped to be heading towards the exit at West Ham
by the Daily Mail, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, but
it seems that he is expecting to be handed a new deal.
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Will there ever be a West Ham homecoming for this legend?
By Harry Burford - Mar 23, 2015
http://westhamworld.co.uk/
Even midway through this season's domestic campaign – over seven years on
from when the stocky Argentine striker first departed the east end in more
than cloudy circumstances – West Ham United have seemingly been unable to
detach themselves from the numerous transfer reports linking Carlos Tevez
with a sensational move back to Upton Park.
And for good reason too. El Apache, as the 31-year-old Juventus forward has
been lovingly nicknamed back home in South America, simply goes down as one
of greatest Hammers favourites of the modern era. His well-documented trials
and tribulations in the claret & blue have been recorded forever in West Ham
folklore for future generations of Irons fans to sit back and ponder upon.
Even if his initial partner in crime down in the east end – the now
30-year-old Barcelona dynamo Javier Mascherano – didn't quite gel in the
same way Tevez did with the Upton Park faithful, such a dramatic period in
West Ham's recent endeavours will likely not be forgotten by the rest of the
Premier League any time soon.
In light of these latest, and albeit predictable, transfer stories linking
the club back to the highly coveted Argentinean, just how likely would
another out of the blue move for Carlos Tevez really be for David Gold and
David Sullivan in the run up to West Ham's final year at the Boleyn Ground?
Whilst such a sensational turn of events would likely come as a great
pleasure to the majority of the Upton Park faithful, in reality this move
looks to be in the same place that it always has been – unlikely at best.
Carlitos is undeniably a top player. He has a turn of pace better than most
of his counterparts in the modern game, a certain unique tenacity that has
seen several defenders fall short of besting the talented forward – and
although the striker took a while to get off the mark with the Hammers all
the way back in 2006/07 – Tevez ultimately commands a clear goal-scoring
threat when given the adequate freedom up top.
As the former Manchester United and City man still has a reputation as one
of the top players in his field at the moment however, it ultimately seems
too unlikely that our former no. 32 will ever be pulling on the Hammers
shirt in a competitive fixture again.
He isn't short of game time at the moment, still has a good few years left
in the tank to do the business at the very top, and certainly wouldn't be
lacking in high profile suitors should the player eventually decide to leave
Serie A.
Combined with the fact that West Ham definitely wouldn't be in a position to
afford his potentially hefty wages, Carlos Tevez didn't have the best of
times off the pitch whilst playing in England last time around – so any
illustrious return to the Premier League just doesn't seem like it's ever
going to happen.
That said, the Hammers may as well give it a go and try to bring the former
fan-favourite back to Upton Park. Yes, the club have no real reason to
believe such a deal would ever go through – but as no one within the
footballing community ever expected either Tevez or Mascherano to sign under
Alan Pardew in the first place – you can simply never say never when it
comes to West Ham.
Some will say he's not worth it because of the subsequent compensation that
had to be issued to Sheffield United as a result of his arrival. Many may
elude to the suggestion that he's not a real Hammers legend because he was
only at the club for one season.
There may even be those who resent Carlos Tevez for using West Ham as a
stepping stone and ultimately moving onto bigger and better things – but if
the opportunity arises for the club to somehow get their hands back on
Carlos Tevez in the run up to the Olympic Stadium move – such an audacious
transfer should be welcomed with open arms.
As we have all likely seen the end of Carlos Tevez as a West Ham player
however, perhaps now would be a good time to cast an eye over our current
batch of potential stars, and take a look at which players have what it
takes to become the next Hammers heroes throughout the foreseeable future.
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