First and Last - Adrian
WHUFC.com
As West Ham United continue the final season at the Boleyn Ground, we've
asked our players for some memorable lasts from their careers and lives, as
well as some firsts. Goalkeeper Adrian goes under the spotlight…
FIRSTS
What was the first car you ever owned?
"Before my first car I had a motorbike called a Gilera and I remember using
it because I used it to attend training when I was 17. Later when I got my
driving license I got a Citroen Xsara which belonged to my mum. She bought a
new one and let me have her car."
What was the first CD you bought?
"It was a flamenco group called El Barrio. They were important singers and a
typical flamenco group."
Who would be the first West Ham player you would vote off the X Factor?
"I would definitely say myself because I am a terrible singer. But if I had
to choose one of my team-mates I would have to say Manuel Lanzini because he
is just as bad as me!"
What was the first concert you went to in England?
"I went to see Beyonce in London at the O2 Arena. She was amazing and it was
a great concert."
When was the first time you knew you would make it as a professional player?
"I remember the moment and it was when I started training with the
first-team squad at Real Betis. I had been playing for the Under-21 side for
a few years and I was the third goalkeeper in the squad. But the first time
I went to train with the senior squad I knew that was the moment."
LASTS
Who is the last teammate you would want to be stuck in a lift with?
"I don't have anyone I dislike but before left in January would have been
Mauro Zarate with his bad jokes and sometimes bad stomach!"
When was the last time you saved a penalty?
"Against Watford at home, just last week – from Troy Deeney. That added to
my count, as I've now saved five in the Premier League since I joined the
Hammers!"
What was the last meal you cooked?
"Every time I go into the kitchen my wife tells me to go back and watch TV.
She is an unbelievable chef. If I do cook it is simple things like a pizza."
What was the last book you read?
"It was a book about being father of your first baby [as I have just
welcomed baby Enzo into the world]. There are lots of questions just for the
father. There are a lot of easy questions but when you are having your first
child you don't know too much about it and it was very interesting because I
am learning many things."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Speaks - WBA
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic was asked about refereeing decisions, the top-six race and
Aaron Cresswell's future
According to a national newspaper report, if 'bad refereeing decisions'
hadn't happened this season, your side would be second in the table…
"What can I say? On one hand it's nice to know we should or could have been
second in the table, but OK, here we are. The most important thing is that
we are playing good and we're very motivated for the last four games."
Do bad and good decisions even themselves out over the course of a season?
"According to that table, no they don't! I don't think they do, but it's
part of the game to be fair, and you will see that it's not only England –
it's everywhere. I read that Barcelona should have been awarded a penalty
and the referee said he'd made a mistake – it happens, and it's part of the
game unfortunately."
Is top four still your aim?
"Top four will be very hard for us. Mathematically, it's still there, but we
didn't approach that subject in that matter ten weeks ago or eight weeks
ago. We are still looking at it the same way, in that let's play against
West Brom and win that game and see where that will take us."
So, is the top six now a minimum?
"Yeah, it is a target. It's been a target for quite a while now. It wasn't a
target at the beginning. With four games to go, we have a gap, but we can't
afford not to win game or lose games. The top six is the one we're looking
for now. It will be hard, as we have four tough games – and Liverpool and
Southampton are playing well and picking up points – but we're on a good run
and we're fully motivated. If we continue to play how we have been, we have
a good chance.
If Manchester United win the FA Cup, there could be a safety net of another
Europa League place…
"Of course I would like to see them win it, because it would give us a bit
of a cushion. The good thing is that everything is in our hands, though. I'd
rather we did it ourselves that wait a week after the end of the season and
be a Man United fan!"
People will say West Brom will be on the beach, but they proved against
Spurs that wasn't the case.
"No, that's not the case. Teams are playing for pride, fans and themselves.
Once I played in Germany, and we had to win the last game to get to Europe.
We played a team that had been relegated in February or March and they beat
us 5-1! West Brom with Tony Pulis and the English mentality; we're expecting
them to play at their maximum. They are safe. West Brom it looks like
they've never been in trouble. That shows they have a good team and a great
manager."
Are there any new injuries in your squad?
"No, we have a full squad. We have done for a good period now. OK, one or
two were injured, but it's a big boost for us. The pitch is full of players
when we train, which is really good. I have to praise the players and also
the medical team who have done an excellent job."
Aaron Cresswell has been linked with a few big clubs – what's your view on
his situation?
"He's having a great season. Last year, he was Hammer of the Year. First of
all, he's a great professional and it's a privilege to have those kind of
players. He has improved a lot. On the ball, with his crosses and technique
he was always good and he is almost like a playmaker on the left side, but
defensively, he has improved tremendously and he has become a great player
and a great full-back. Of course, that attracts interest of so many clubs,
but I spoke to him, and first of all he's under contract, and secondly, he
is really happy here and he loves it here. He can't wait for the new season.
He is going to stay with us for a long time, hopefully."
Reece Burke won the Bradford City Player of the Year – is he someone you'll
look at for next season to play a part with the first team?
"I like Reece. He already played some friendlies and in Europe for us. He's
a very clever player. It was and still is part of the plan for a few to go
on loan, minimum one year, maybe two, for them to improve, and them to come
back with a clear situation. To say, you will play a part for West Ham and
be an important player for the squad. After that, we will decide if he's
going to do another year, and that has to be at least the Championship, or
he's going to stay with us. He will stay with us only if he has a good
chance to play."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Player Memories
WHUFC.com
Former Hammers defender Christian Dailly made 191 appearances in Claret and
Blue over seven seasons for the Club, becoming a fans' favourite in the
process. He spoke to West Ham TV about playing every minute of the 2001/02
campaign and that goal against Ipswich in the 2004 play-off semi-final…
To be honest, every time I played a game [at the Boleyn Ground], it was a
privilege and a pleasure, when I think back. The Ipswich game is probably
the loudest night I've ever experienced in football and a few other people
also said that to me.
Other than that match, there were so many other great times as well. When I
look back, the whole thing was just a brilliant experience.
The Ipswich goal was a painful memory, though! I've looked back at it now
and again, and it was obviously worth it. The only thing was, I wish I could
have celebrated it a bit, that was the only thing, but I just couldn't! But
still, they were great memories.
I think all the games in general were always great. Some of the great
players you're playing against, and the great teams, mean there are
fantastic memories. The year we finished seventh in the Premier League,
playing every game, we had a fantastic home record, and hardly conceded a
goal. It was just a brilliant season.
We a very unusual number of big characters at one Club too, but the Club
seemed to attract that type. It was great to be part of that and one of
them.
It's brilliant to see the team doing so well now. I obviously keep a close
eye on the Hammers' results, and it's exciting. I think the crowd obviously
always want everyone to give their all for the Club, but you also want teams
to be exciting.
At times [in football] it has been a bit too boring. I understand it's a
results-based business, but I don't personally like that. There's a demand
on clubs like West Ham to have an exciting blend. You want to win the games
but you want to have the right types.
There are a few teams this year who have the right types in there that allow
other players to play. It's made it exciting to watch and West Ham have been
really exciting to watch this year.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest
update – in association with Spire Roding Hospital...
Hello everybody,
I am pleased to report that we have no injuries for the moment ahead of
Saturday's Barclays Premier League fixture at West Bromwich Albion.
Since my last update a week ago, we have won an important home match against
Watford and, from a medical point of view, we came through the game with no
serious injury concerns other than the usual bumps and bruises.
Everybody took two days off to rest immediately after the Watford game. The
players then returned to training on Saturday and we have preparing for West
Brom.
On Monday evening, I joined many of the first-team players at the Barclays
U21 Premier League Cup final first leg at the Boleyn Ground, where we beat
Hull City 1-0. Let's hope we can complete the job at the KC Stadium next
week.
It was good for Sam Byram and Reece Oxford to get back in the match rhythm
by playing the full 90 minutes, and also encouraging to see Doneil Henry and
Stephen Hendrie in action.
We have four important matches to come over the next two-and-a-half weeks
and hopefully we can keep all players available.
That's all for now and, as we say in my home country of Belgium, no news is
often good news!
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ExWHUEmployee Exclusive Column: Juventus to open New Stadium, Lacazette keen
on Hammers, Sakho back in frame
April 28, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
ExWHUEmployee
So it has been announced we will play Juventus in the opening game of the
season. This is a great tie for us to open the stadium with. As someone who
has Italian blood I have always had a soft spot for Italian football. When I
grew up it was on channel four and I used to watch it religiously. Whilst I
would say AC Milan are my Italian team, it is still very exciting to see
another Italian great. It is no secret that Barcelona, Madrid and Munich
were all contacted but Juventus were the most enthusiastic and I cannot wait
to see this fixture.
There has been a lot of grumblings over the price of this fixture. The price
however includes the opening ceremony and again this is set to be pretty
spectacular. There is a real determination from the club to go out of The
Boleyn in style but yet enter a new era at the Olympic Stadium
spectacularly.
The Manchester United game is so close now and I cannot really believe it. I
am going to miss the stadium so much. I was lucky in my youth that I
regularly got to go to games and then go on the pitch after matches and that
excitement I had as a kid doing this is very hard to replace. The ground
holds such special memories for us all. Sky have recognised this and are
intending to do a whole day of hourly reports from the stadium on the last
day hosted by Jim White (the notorious yellow tie wearing transfer deadline
reporter), Tony Cottee and Tony Gale.
You will soon be able to buy your seat from the ground and I will certainly
be buying mine plus enter the auction for so many items that will go on sale
and will give you a piece of football history. I get sad thinking about our
move but when you see the Olympic Stadium and the conversion that is going
on you will see that it is the right move. The new stadium looks spectacular
and all the facilities that it has will make the transition worthwhile.
The club really want to have top quality players to play in the stadium and
already extensive work has gone in to finding us a new forward. We had
already lodged a number of bids and it is clear that Lazacette and Batshuayi
lead the way for the top targets.
The one problem we have is that with Euro 2016 in the summer both clubs may
hope their players"star" in the tournament and therefore raise their
transfer value.It is thought at this point that Lazacette has expressed a
strong interest in moving here. We have also made very strong moves for an
Argentinian forward (no it is not Tevez!) We have been linked with a number
of big name "injury" prone players. The club is determined to not go down
this route and they showed this stance by the fact that they closely
monitored Lanzini's recovery from injury before committing to buying
him.Therefore the continuous linking of Oxlade-Chamberlain of Arsenal and
even more ludicrously (given how many centre backs we have) Vermaelen of
Barcelona are far fetched. These players do not represent value for money
and we would not risk it on injured players.We have looked at a number of
wingers too. These have been reported in our previous columns and we are
exploring the options of an experienced right back. We have been looking at
Europe and domestically and have identified a couple of targets here too.
It is good that Sakho is back playing with the squad and I actually thought
him and Carroll were superb against Watford. Sakho was made to apologise to
the whole of the squad on the training ground after the Arsenal"injury" and
this was accepted by the team. Sakho has been having some off field
difficulties and the club have taken this into consideration. I do not
expect to see Alex Song playing for the club again however. He will leave in
the summer with a number of clubs keen to sign him, although none of the
stature of his parent club, Barcelona. Victor Moses will go but the club are
determined to keep hold of Obiang. He has become a little frustrated by his
lack of regular first team action and has spoken with Bilic about this. It
is felt however that with Europe potentially on the horizon he would be
perfect for those games. Valencia is another who we would consider an offer
for,as I discussed in my column last week, there is interest from China,
Italy and Spain for the player. A few fringe players will also leave in the
summer; most notably Joey O'Brien, Elliot Lee, Jordan Brown, Mavilla and
Nasha. Reece Burke finds himself in a tricky situation.It is clear at the
moment with the four first team centre backs that we have and Reece Oxford
also emerging that he has a tough battle to get to the first team. After
winning Bradford's player of the season this year he is now attracting
interest from other clubs. We intend to loan him to a championship club and
we would like that club to be Bradford (if they get promoted). Reece is a
diehard West Ham fan and doesn't want to leave but is evaluating his next
move. The club hope he will go on loan for another year or so and then be
fighting for a first team place here.We will continue to search for top
young players to bring here.I was delighted to exclusively bring the news of
the signing of Domingos Quina in the week from Chelsea and there are two
more players that could be heading to the youth team before the end of the
season. These are two very talented individuals. Speaking of talented
youngster Samuelsen is back with us from his spell with Peterborough and
hoping to make the bench in the forthcoming fixtures as well as leading us
to victory in the cup final against Hull.
The site is moving forward rapidly and you are now reading our first ever
fanzine. Please make sure you continue to check this out and contact myself
for advertising both in this and on the website or offering other
contributions should you wish. We will have a special edition available for
the Manchester United game. Thank you to all the writers who have
contributed and I haven't been able to thank personally yet. Remember our
App is available to download and to follow us on snapchat, Facebook and
YouTube. We have a new website round the corner and another "unique" new
feature coming soon. I will be at the WBA game so I look forward to seeing
some of you up there and follow all the action on our Snap Chat.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barca interested in Lacazette?
April 28, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
BKHammer
According to today's edition of L'Equipe, Barcelona are now interested in
acquiring Lacazette from Lyon. It's explained that Barcelona know they need
to buy someone as support to their their world class trio of forwards.
Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar are thought to need more rest than they
currently get, and Luis Enrique is short of options. The manager wanted to
sign Nolito from Celta Vigo during the winter transfer window, but
Barcelona's tricky finances at the time scuppered it. Eric Abidal is said
to be important in any potential deal taking Lacazette to Barcelona, with
close links to everyone involved. The problem for Barcelona (apart from the
rather obvious point of Lyon wanting a big fee and Barcelona not wanting to
pay one) is said to be playing time, with Lacazette not keen on a supporting
role. At the end of their article, L'Equipe say: 'The Hammers have also
returned to the fray in recent days.'
L'Equipe had previously reported last week that West Ham had submitted a bid
for the Lyon Hitman. Coincidentally some Spanish media sources had stated
last week that West Ham where also interested in the Celta Vigo star,
Nolito.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic aiming for top six and Europe
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 28th April 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has admitted that his aim for the remainder of this season is
to finish in the top six of the Premier League - and hopefully qualify for
Europe.
Bilic - whose team need just two points from their remaining four matches to
better West Ham United's record tally of 57 points from a 38-game season -
is hoping to become the first Irons boss to finish in the top six since
Harry Redknapp's 1988/99 squad finished fifth.
"Yes, it is a target - and it's been our target for quite a while now," he
said during a media briefing.
"It wasn't a target at the beginning of the season, but with four games to
go we have a little gap. We can't afford not to win game or lose games but
top six is what we're looking for now.
"It's going to be hard as we have four really tough games and both Liverpool
and Southampton are playing well and picking up points. But, we're unbeaten
in the Premier League for a while, on a good run and we are fully motivated.
"We're good and if we continue to play well in our last games, we have a
good chance."
West Ham will qualify for a Europe League spot should they end the season in
the top six. However a Manchester United win in next month's FA Cup Final
would result in an additional Euopean spot becoming available, due to the
Reds being on the verge of qualifying for Europe via their league position.
Bilic admitted that he would be backing Louis Van Gaal's side in next
month's Wembley showpiece as a result - even though he hopes to have
everything wrapped up by that point.
"I would like to see them win it because it would give us a bit of a
cushion," he added, when questioned on the subject.
"The good thing though is that everything is in our hands - and I would
rather we did it ourselves that have to wait until a week after the season
and wear red scarves and flags and be Man United fans!
"I don't want to talk about it like it's happened already, let's try to do
it first. That's all I can promise. It is in our hands but there's four
games to go and it can very easily slip out of our hands. But, it would be
great."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham host Show Racism the Red Card School Competition Awards
By Dev Trehan
Last Updated: 28/04/16 2:30pm
SSN
West Ham's Boleyn Ground played host to the 16th annual Show Racism the Red
Card (SRtRC) School Competition Awards Ceremony on Thursday. West Ham
full-back Sam Byram, former player Leroy Rosenior and joint-chairman David
Gold attended the ceremony, as well as PFA deputy chief executive Bobby
Barnes and Chelsea Ladies and England forward Gemma Davison. Run with
support from a number of organisations including the FA, PFA and the
National Union of Teachers, the School Competition Awards form part of Show
Racism the Red Card's 20th anniversary celebrations. Awards including
football shirts and prizes donated by football clubs and other organisations
were collected on the day by young people from all over the country, who
were selected as competition winners. Show Racism the Red Card chief
executive, Ged Grebby said: "We are thrilled that West Ham has agreed to
host the School Competition awards. This is a special year for both of the
organisations, it being SRtRC's 20th anniversary and West Ham United's final
year at their historic Boleyn Ground, ahead of their move to the Olympic
Stadium. "The competition sees thousands of young people take part annually
and it is a hard job for the judges to pick the winners from so many great
entries. This year there were some wonderfully original entries and we would
like to thank all of the teachers for promoting the competition in their
schools. "SRtRC would also like to congratulate all the winners of the 2016
School Competition on their achievement. This event is a fantastic example
of the hard work and commitment of thousands of young people and the
enthusiasm the SRtRC campaign inspires."
Funke Awoderu, equality manager at the Football Association said: ''The FA
is once again delighted to be sponsoring the Show Racism the Red Card School
Competition. The campaign provides a terrific platform for young people to
get involved in a creative and meaningful way.'' PFA chief executive Gordon
Taylor added: ''The PFA would like to congratulate all the entrants of the
Show Racism the Red Card Schools Competition. We are always delighted to
support the campaign in their vital work delivering key message around
diversity and inclusion using football and players as the delivery tool.''
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic confident Aaron Cresswell will stay at West Ham
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 28/04/16 1:40pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic says Aaron Cresswell is happy at West Ham and expects the
defender to remain at the club. Cresswell, who joined West Ham from Ipswich
Town in 2014, has recently been linked with a summer move away from the
Hammers, with Liverpool and Manchester City reportedly among the clubs
interested. The 26-year-old has four years left on his contract, with the
option of a further two years, and Bilic is confident he will be able to
call upon him next season at the Olympic Stadium. "Aaron Cresswell is
having a great season. He was Hammer of the Year last year, he's a great
professional and he's always available. He's great," he said. "He had a
great season last season, on the ball and with his crossing and technique.
He is almost a playmaker from defence. "Aaron improved defensively and is
almost a complete player now. He naturally became of interest to so many
good clubs. "I spoke to him. First, he is under contract and second, and
more importantly, he is really happy here and can't wait for the future."
Cresswell is likely to make his 44th appearance of the season on Saturday
when West Ham face West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns. West Ham are on
course to secure a place in Europe for next season and win over the Baggies
would see them leapfrog Manchester United into fifth spot. But Bilic is
taking nothing for granted and is expecting a tough encounter against Tony
Pulis' side, who are almost certain to be playing Premier League football
next season after passing the 40-point mark. "West Brom are not on the
beach. They are playing for pride, for their fans, for themselves," he
added. "Once, in Germany, we played the last game to go to Europe against a
team who had been relegated and they beat us 5-1!
"Make no mistake, especially with Tony Pulis in charge and the English
mentality, we are expecting they will play at their maximum. "They scored
44-45 per cent of their goals from the set pieces and they have a lot of
clean sheets and energy in transition. "They get four players in the box and
deliver quality. They are a good team and of course they are safe. They've
never been in trouble."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rio Ferdinand to play alongside brother Anton in England vs Germany
'legends' game at Upton Park
21:01, 28 APR 2016 UPDATED 21:01, 28 APR 2016
BY JAMES WHALING
The pair join a host of other big names as the two sides do battle on May 2
to mark the 50th anniversary of the Three Lions' World Cup win
The Mirror
Anton Ferdinand has become the latest name to join the star-studded line up
for the England vs Germany 'legends' game at Upton Park on May 2.
The former West Ham centre-half joins brother Rio in the England squad for
the match which will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Three Lions'
World Cup win. Ferdinand, who still plays professionally in the Championship
with Reading, will line up alongside names such as Teddy Sheringham, David
James, Sol Campbell, Trevor Sinclair and Peter Bearsley. David Haye, Damien
Lewis, Mark Strong and Lee Mack are some of the celebrities that will also
take part in the match at the Boleyn Ground. Ray Winstone will lead the
Three Lions, who come up against a Germany side with no shortage of quality.
Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack will play, as will ex-Bayer
Leverkusen stars Oliver Neuville and Thomas Hitzlsperger. The match marks a
return to the East End for Ferdinand who played over 200 competitive games
for the club between 2003 and 2008.
Kick-off is at 4pm on Bank Holiday Monday.
Tickets are available by calling call 0871 091 1811 or visiting
www.whufcboxoffice.com .
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham would be second were it not for errors by officials, claims former
referee's assistant
JAMES BENGE Wednesday 27 April 20166 comments
Evening Standard
West Ham would be second in the league were it not for refereeing errors,
according to a report by former assistant Glenn Turner. Recent weeks have
seen Slaven Bilic's side come out on the wrong side of a host of
controversial decisions from officials, including a goal from Manuel Lanzini
against Arsenal wrongly ruled offside and a last-minute penalty given
against Andy Carroll in a 2-2 draw with Leicester City. After the 3-3 draw
with Arsenal at the Boleyn Ground earlier this month Bilic suggested his
side would be third if they had had the rub of the green but research from
you-are-the-ref.com claims that the Hammers should be even higher in the
table. Keith Hackett, a former top flight referee and head of Professional
Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL), believes the intimidating confines of
Upton Park are pressuring referees into making the wrong calls: "I think
what might come into play is the fact that it's a pretty vociferous crowd.
"West Ham followers, they make the referee at times feel uncomfortable by
the very nature of their reaction to decisions, right or wrong. "However
the referee needs to focus and maintain concentration and I think some of
the decision makers when you look across the stats, need a kick up the rear!
I question whether there's a level of accountability that operates for
referees that are making major errors, they're still getting major
appointments."
This season has seen what you-are-the-ref.com believes to 84 key decisions
made incorrectly during the 333 Premier League matches prior to last
weekend's fixtures. These include incorrectly allowing or disallowing a
goal, awarding a penalty or failing to do so and failing to make the right
decision in a potential red card incident. Jon Moss, the referee at the
centre of Leicester's controversial clash with West Ham, was adjudged the
worst performing referee in the Premier League and Hackett is concerned
that too many of the league's top officials are struggling when the
spotlight is on them. He said: "I used to talk regularly with our referees
(when chief of PGMOL) and say to them 'we don't want a single error this
weekend' and we used to occasionally get one but our overall average was 1
in 10 games compared to now which is 1 in 4. "Some referees aren't capable
of managing big events. We all know that when Howard Webb, Mark Halsey
leaving prematurely, all these situations, they lost Phil Dowd, Lee Probert
and the quality hasn't been replaced."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive: Galey bares his Boleyn soul
C and H
Tony Gale is preparing himself for one of the most emotional nights of his
life. He will be doubling up as one of the Hammers favourites during a
parade of the legends along with carrying out his Sky duties where he has
become a well respected analyst. And in an exclusive interview with
ClaretandHugh the former central defender said: "It's going to be one of the
most emotional nights ever – there won't be a dry eye in the house.
tgale"Over the last couple of weeks the absolute reality of the situation
has dawned on everybody and it's a hard one isn't it. Yes, I'm for the move
to the Olympic Stadium. It's an absolute must if we are going to compete at
the top with the big boys. "None of us a are silly. We all understand it but
unfortunately emotions and memories get in the way and the ida of leaving
the Boleyn is really pretty unbelievable."
He feels for those who have lived their lives in the area and are born and
bred and regrets the passing of "community" saying: "Some are now
millionaires and others are on the dole but when they return to the ground
they are what they have always been – Boleyn boys and girls. "After a
wonderful season we can leave with a flourish but it's still gong to be the
toghest all in the world for so many. I love that place heart and soul. I
had ten years at the club and lo ve the place. "The final night against
Manchester United is going to be hard, very hard – we will all have tears
flowing. That's for sure."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No injuries so here's the team we want to see
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 28, 2016 in News, Whispers
C abd H
Slaven Bilic is this week in a position for the first time in ages to pick
his first team. Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke has
reported that "we have no injuries for the moment ahead of Saturday's
Barclays Premier League fixture at West Bromwich Albion." And barring any
accidents in training that means the boss will be able to show his hand at
West Brom where we can expect an attacking formation as the Irons continue
to mount their assault on Europe.
Vandenbroucke said: "Since my last update a week ago, we have won an
important home match against Watford and, from a medical point of view, we
came through the game with no serious injury concerns other than the usual
bumps and bruises.Everybody took two days off to rest immediately after the
Watford game. The players then returned to training on Saturday and we have
preparing for West Brom."
So the guessing game on Slav's selection start and here's the team we would
like to see:
Adrian; Tomkins, Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell; Antonio, Noble, Kouyate, Payet,
Carroll, Sakho
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers on Cresswell rumour
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 28, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Speculation that Liverpool are keen to sign Aaron Cresswell this summer have
been killed off by West Ham. Rumours have been circulating for some time
that the Reds see the scouser as a summer target but short of an "absolutely
astronomical bid" there is zero interest inside Upton Park. Cresswell only
recently signed a new deal which sees him locked into a Hammers contract
until 2120 with another two year option both ways at the end of that. Kop
manager Jurgen Klopp has been impressed with the left back in the matches
between the two sides but the Hammers are totally disnitested in a bid. An
insider told ClaretandHugh: "We've read the stories but as both chaormn have
said on several occasions, we are no longer a selling club. "There is no
chance of Aaron moving anywhere. it would have to be an absolutely
astronomical bid for us to even look ."
Meanhile Cresswell himself is very happy at the club telling the London
Evening Standard: "It's going to be fantastic next season – once it's all
kitted out, I can't wait to see it," he told the London Evening Standard.
West Ham fans feel that Cresswell has been unlucky not to stake a claim for
a place in Roy Hodgson's England squad for Euro 2016.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers waiting game on striker targets
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 28, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham will move in seriously on their striker targets once the season
comes to an end. Although the club has identified four serious players they
are unable to process any moves whilst the season is is still underway. We
understand that Christian Benteke = although unlikely – has not been 100 per
cent discarded. And both Alexandre Lacazette and Michy Batshuay are strongly
fancied although a source close to the club added that there are three other
names on the short list which has been whittled down from 12 over recent
weeks. We were told that fans need not expect any serious developments until
the season comes to an end. ClaretandHugh was told by a senior club insider:
"We know the supporters are desperate for news and obviously we have plans
in place but nothing will happen until the end of the season. Agents and
clubs quite understandably don't want to lower the form of players by
putting thoughts of transfers into their heads. "
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Police advice ahead of Hawthorns clash
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 28, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Midlands Police have posted advice to West Ham Supporters on social
media ahead of West Ham's match with West Brom on Saturday afternoon. The
Force's Football Unit have posted advice for those travelling and attending
the match. "West Bromwich Albion v West Ham, 25,000 are expected with West
Ham having sold their full allocation of 2,700, have a good day." "Coaches
and minibuses can park for free in Middlemore Road, plenty of car parks
along Birmingham Road for private vehicles" "If your travelling by train to
the the match it is best to drink in Birmingham town centre and then on the
Heavy rail or Metro to the Hawthorns stadium" "If your going for a drink
near the ground away supporters are welcome at the Royal Oak Holyhead Rd
,which is the nearest pub to the ground." "You can also get a drink at the
Fan Zone or inside the stadium ,have a safe journey and see you there."
"Than You"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pulis gives his Hammers opinion
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 28, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Tony Pulis has told Slaven Bilic he is the success story of the season. The
West Brom boss pits his wits against Super Slav at the Hawthorns on Saturday
knowing he's in for one of the toughest battles of the season. Speaking
exclusively to CandH he said: "What a team West Ham have become under Slaven
– who apart from being a great manager – is a terrific man. He has real
quality – a very good person indeed. "He has produced exactly the right mix
at the club – great players playing terrific football in front of a crowd
who obviously think the world of him. "If I'm honest I really didn't expect
him to be so successful in his first season – his has been a fantastic
achievement."
Pulis claims that the squad assembled is quite extraordinary with Dimi Payet
taking the club to a different level declaring: "It was a fantastic summer
for them and he has been one of the players of the season. "Mind you Michail
Antonio has been brilliant and represents a real handful to us or anyone
else. This is going to be an incredibly difficult game for us – they have
become a great team."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
An evening with Alvin Martin
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 28, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former Hammer, Alvin Martin, will be hosting a live TV screening of West Ham
v Manchester United on Tuesday 10th May at Rileys Sports Bar, Haymarket,
London.
The event is designed for Hammers who have been unable to purchase a final
ticket for the last ever game at the Boleyn Ground.
Alvin will host a Q&A session and pose with fans for photographs and sign
autographs.
Although invited to the last game at the Boleyn Ground by the club, Alvin
told Claret and Hugh, this afternoon that his last ever game at the Boleyn
was earlier this month during the recent 3-3 draw with Arsenal. Asked for
his favourite Boleyn Ground memory he chose the first time he stepped out to
a packed Boleyn ground against Coventry describing as a 'Wonderful feeling'
Alvin added "This is the best squad since 1986, Bilic is the real deal and I
said it WHEN he was appointed!"
Venue:
VIP LOUNGE
Rileys Sports Bar, Haymarket, London
Date: Tuesday 10 May 2016
Drinks Reception: 6pm / Buffet: 6.45pm
Kick off: 7.45pm
Cash Bar
ONLY £60.00 per person !!!
includes signed photograph & buffet
(Limited to 100 tickets only)
Sponsorship / Groups / Individual Tickets
To book contact us at info@eclipsesports.co.uk
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Actually, this is the biggest injustice to West Ham's historic season…
By James Jones - Apr 28, 2016 0
WestHamWorld.co.uk
Earlier this week we published an article that questioned whether the
decision to play our last ever game at the Boleyn Ground on a weeknight
rather than a weekend was the biggest injustice to our season – you can read
that here. But we think we may have found an ever bigger injustice to what
is already a historic season, but could have also been the club's most
successful in its history. We all know how much we've been robbed of
refereeing decisions over the past few months. The penalty that never was at
Old Trafford, the penalty that should've been a free-kick at Chelsea,
Kouyate's red card for a fair tackle against Palace, Lanzini's offside goal
against Arsenal that was onside… the list goes on and on and on and on. It
has cost us points. Points that perhaps wouldn't have meant a great deal had
we been competing in mid-table. Instead, these incompetent decisions from
referees this season may have in-fact cost us a place in the Champions
League next season. We're currently eight points off fourth place with four
games to play, but had referees done their jobs properly we'd actually be
second and eight points clear of fifth – just one win away from
mathematically securing our place in the biggest club competition in the
world. Instead, we're now hoping teams above us drop points while we cling
on to a place in the top six. Have a look at the league table below – this
really is the biggest injustice to West Ham's historic season. And how much
has it cost us in potential income?
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic insists Aaron Cresswell is happy at West Ham and will stay for
'a long time' despite interest from Liverpool
West Ham United news: Click here for all the latest from Upton Park
Aaron Cresswell has become a key player for West Ham this season
The full back's performances have attracted interest from Liverpool
But Slaven Bilic has said Cresswell is happy at West Ham and will stay
Bilic sees the 26-year-old defender having a long career with the Hammers
By ADAM SHERGOLD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:17, 28 April 2016 | UPDATED: 12:30, 28 April 2016
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic defiantly insists Aaron Cresswell will not be
going anywhere this summer despite interest from Liverpool. The Hammers
manager acknowledged the defender's 'great season' had inevitably attracted
interest from higher-profile clubs but insisted Cresswell is 'really happy'
at Upton Park. Speaking ahead of Saturday's visit to West Bromwich Albion,
which could see his side take another step towards a Europa League place,
Bilic said: 'He is having a great season. 'Last year he was Hammer of the
Year and, first of all, he is a great professional and it is great to have
him and those kind of players. He's played every game this season, he's
maybe missed one. He is great. 'He has improved a lot and he has had a great
season on the ball, with his crosses and with his skill and technique. He's
almost a playmaker on the left side of the defence but defensively he has
improved tremendously. 'So he has become a great full-back and a complete
footballer. So he naturally gets the interest of so many big clubs, bigger
clubs - though I don't agree they're bigger clubs. 'I spoke to him. First
he is under contract. Second, more important than the length of the
contract, is that he is really happy here, he loves it here and he can't
wait for the new season. Those clubs can try to talk to him but I spoke to
him a couple of times, he is very happy and he is going to stay with us for
a long time.' Cresswell, 26, was signed from Ipswich Town for £3.75m in 2014
and has developed into an indispensable part of the Hammers squad. He has
missed just one Premier League match this season, playing 43 games across
all competitions. West Ham are currently sixth in the Premier League and on
course for Europa League football. They have home matches against Swansea
and Manchester United after their visit to The Hawthorns and conclude their
season at Stoke. On their top six ambitions, Bilic added: 'It is a target
and it has been a target for quite a while now. We have a bit of a gap but
we can't afford to lose games. 'The top six is where we are looking for now.
It's going to be hard, we have Liverpool and Southampton there [in seventh
and eighth]. 'But we are unbeaten in a long time, we have had a good run and
we are fully motivated. If we continue to play like we play, we have a good
chance.' Bilic also praised youngster Reece Burke, who was named Bradford
City's Player of the Season after impressing during his loan spell with the
League One club. The Croatian manager raised the prospect of 21-year-old
Burke becoming part of the Hammers squad next season or potentially going on
loan to a Championship side. He said: 'I like Reece, he already played in
some friendlies and in Europe for us. He is a very clever player and has a
great stature. He is very smart and I like him a lot. 'It is part of the
plan for him and them - we have a few promising players - to go on loan for
a minimum of two seasons. After one season or two seasons, to come back with
a clear situation - either be an important member of the squad or go
somewhere else. 'If he's going to do another year, it has to be at least
Championship or if he stays with us, we'll see if he has got a good chance
to play and not only to train.'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, April 29
Thursday, April 28
Daily WHUFC News - 28th April 2016
Awards night success for loan star Burke
WHUFC.com
West Ham loan star Reece Burke gained recognition for his fantastic season
at Bradford City by winning seven awards on Tuesday night at the club's
presentation evening. The 19-year-old Academy product collected the main
accolade – club Player of the Year – as well as similar awards from a number
of supporters' clubs. Also picking up the Most Consistent Player prize, it
was a terrific evening overall for the defender who has made 34 appearances
for the Bantams this season. After collecting the awards, the centre-back
said: "To win seven, I don't know what to say. It's a big achievement for
me. I couldn't thank people enough; my family and people who have voted for
me. "The aim when moving to Bradford was to get a few league games under my
belt but I've come a long way since then! I've played quite a few and it's
great to win Player of the Year. "It means a lot for my family to be here
when I collected my awards. We're very close. My Dad comes up for most games
and travels back, so it's hard work for him, but if it wasn't for him I
wouldn't be the man I am today. "I think working with the manager and being
around the players has helped me develop. I've grown up quite quick on the
pitch and it's been a great season for me."
Burke is just one of many promising Hammers who have been successful out on
loan this term; Josh Cullen has impressed alongside him at Bradford while
Elliot Lee and Kyle Knoyle have done well at Colchester United and Dundee
United respectively. City manager Phil Parkinson was full of praise for the
pair of Hammers, who have grown up at the Academy of Football, he has had at
his disposal this season. "We have been delighted with the progress that
both Burke and Cullen have made since arriving at the club," he said.
"Obviously Reece came up first towards the start of the season and he
settled in well with the rest of the players and in the area itself. "The
exact same can be said about Josh when he joined too. They have performed
excellently for us during their time here and they are both examples of the
young players West Ham United are trying to produce. They are a credit to
their Club."
In his first full season in senior football, Burke played three times for
the Hammers in their Europa League ties at the start of the season, before
joining the play-off chasing League One side. His loan move, which has seen
the rising star become a fans' favourite at Valley Parade, came on the back
of six impressive displays in Claret and Blue for the first team at the tail
end of last term. Bradford City are currently fifth in League One and look
set for a play-off campaign, having narrowly missed out last term, in a bid
to win promotion to the Championship.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins - I'm dying to play my part
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender James Collins is itching to get back on the pitch after
returning from injury and is looking forward to facing a manager this
weekend who once tried to sign him.
The big centre-half, who made a cameo return appearance from the bench
against Watford last week, is fit and ready for selection having recovered
from a hamstring problem as the Hammers face West Bromwich Albion at the
Hawthorns on Saturday.
And the Welshman revealed that Baggies manager Tony Pulis, then boss of
Stoke City, was a big fan of his years ago, however the 32-year-old instead
left the Hammers for Aston Villa.
Collins said: "I almost signed for [Pulis] a couple of years back when he
was at Stoke. I went to Villa a couple of days later instead, though.
"He is from Newport and grew up not far from me, so I've always had a good
bit of banter with him. I know boys that have played for him, but he's a
great manager and a great man.
"He gets his teams working hard and it's going to be tough on Saturday.
We're confident though that we can get the three points. I am dying to get
back on the pitch and play my part in the rest of the season."
Prior to the 3-1 victory over the Hornets, Collins last appeared for Slaven
Bilic's side in the Hammers' 1-0 win against rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The defender admitted that it has been a slower return to match fitness than
he would have liked, but he now wants to help the side finish as high up the
Premier League table as possible.
"It took me a bit longer to get fit than I wanted and I had a couple of
setbacks, but I'm looking forward to getting some game time now and looking
forward to the Euros too," continued the Wales international.
"It's still been a great season for us. If you ask the rest of the boys,
they'll probably say the same as me, that we've conceded a few too many
goals recently, and I'm not just saying that because I'm not playing!
"We could have had a few wins where we've drawn, but we're still going well
and we're looking forward to the last three games. We're working to finish
as high up as we can.
"There have been times where a couple of decisions have gone against us but
we need to finish off strongly as we don't want to fizzle out – we need to
carry it on."
Collins – capped by Wales on 46 occasions – will join up with the rest of
the Dragons' squad and manager Chris Coleman at the end of the season for
UEFA Euro 2016 in France, and he is looking forward to the nation's huge
clash with Roy Hodgson's England.
"The draw has been made and obviously we have got England, so it's going to
be a massive tournament and a massive game against them. We're meeting up
quite early though, so we'll be fully prepared and will have a good few
weeks to look forward to it.
"We will go there full of confidence that we can perform how we have been
[in the qualifiers] and confident of getting to the next stage."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Football journalist Rory Smith reckons the Juventus are a fitting club to
for the Hammers to open the new Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
against in August…
There's no doubt that the Hammers' opponents in the first game at their new
Stadium – Juventus – are one of the world's biggest clubs, something that
has perhaps been forgotten in recent years with Barcelona and Bayern Munich
taking over.
The Old Lady are massive, though; to think they have won 32 Serie A titles
is extraordinary. They say that one in every two football fans in Italy is a
Juventus fan, meaning they're beyond the Manchester United of Italy. You
either actively support them or actively support against them over there. It
shows what a genuinely massive club they are.
They are one of the three teams in Serie A to own their stadium, they have
now won five titles in a row and they are regulars in the latter stages of
the UEFA Champions League. They obviously got to the final of the
competition last season, and many would have backed them to get to the
quarters or the semis again had they not met Bayern in the last-16 this
year. Even in that tie, they ran the German side close.
They are a team on the up, that's for sure. They often provide the backbone
for the Italy team, and the three of Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and
Leonardo Bonucci are Italian football-made flesh. They're brutal, hard and
tough – and a little bit snide in a nice way – but also elegant and what you
think of when you consider Italian football.
One of the reasons Fiorentina hate Juventus is because they feel they have
always been over-represented in the Italy side. Gianluigi Buffon is one of
those players who you want to appreciate watching now; there's a good chance
he's the best goalkeeper who has ever lived. Not just his ability
contributes to that, but also how long he lasted at the top of world
football for club and country.
I remember him making his debut for Parma when he was 18, and that would
have been almost 21 years ago. He's one of those players that when your
grandkids ask 'who have you seen play?', it would be nice to answer
'Gianluigi Buffon'. West Ham fans now have a chance to do that.
Like West Ham, Juventus are a factory team, and they have massive English
links with their former managers.
They're a side full of symbolic Italian players, however they also have some
younger, exciting players as well. Paul Pogba is arguably one of the most
complete midfielders in Europe; Paulo Dybala is the next Argentinian
sensation…there are lots of players who are worth watching.
It is sure to be an exciting game to open the new Stadium that everyone
connected with West Ham will be looking forward to.
Rory Smith's new book 'Mister: The Men Who Gave The World The Game' is
available now online and from most good bookshops.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not
necessarily the opinions held by West Ham United.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
News
Politics
Football
Sport
Celebs
TV & Film
Weird News
TRENDINGCRISTIANO RONALDODELE ALLICHAMPIONS LEAGUEPREMIER LEAGUE TITLE
RACEHILLSBOROUGH INQUESTS Technology Money Travel Fashion Mums
Home
Sport Football West Ham transfer news
West Ham out of transfer chase for Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as they
focus on signing a top striker
22:30, 27 APR 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
Hammers chiefs have decided to invest major funds in the centre-forward
position with Michy Batshuayi and Christian Benteke among the names on their
radar
The Mirror
West Ham have decided against pursuing a move for Arsenal 's Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain — because they have already made a high-class striker
their main priority.
We revealed last week that the ambitious Hammers - still chasing Champions
League qualification with four games to go - have been offered midfielder
Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the Gunners set to offload a number of players this
summer.
But the Irons are currently battling London neighbours and rivals Spurs for
the signature of Marseille marksman Michy Batshuayi, who has scored 19 goals
this season.
They have also confirmed their interest in out-of-favour Liverpool frontman
Christian Benteke.
A decision has been taken to invest substantial funds into addressing the
centre-forward position ahead of next season, even though the club are among
the Premier League's highest scorers in the current campaign.
Talented England international Oxlade-Chamberlain has also attracted
attention from his former club Southampton and both Manchester giants.
The 22-year-old, who has two years left on his contract, has 24 caps for
England but is unlikely to be picked for the European Championship this
summer as he is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ticket booking fees rise by 30%
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Booking fees for buying tickets over the telephone from West Ham's new
ticket partner Ticket Master have increased by 30% to £1.95 per ticket.
Under the current contract with See Tickets at the Boleyn Ground,
Bondholders/Season Ticket Holders/Academy and Youth Academy Member pay £1.50
per ticket. However, buying tickets online for the Olympic Stadium will
remain the same at £1 per ticket booking fee.
A source close to the ticket office told Claret and Hugh
"Unfortunately, this was a tough decision but we took in the fans view on
the problems encountered with the current box office particularly in the
time spent waiting on the phone due to the small size of the See Tickets
call centre"
The source added "It's tough to find an improved system at the same cost,
Ticket Master offer a better service but for this, supporters will have a
slightly higher charge applied to their transactions. We have battled hard
to keep the online the same and this is where biggest improvement in terms
of demand and also usage will be seen"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sky plan a massive Boleyn farewell
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 27, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
Sky Sports will be serving up a Hammers treat for the last game at the
Boleyn. Plans are well advanced from the broadcaster to ensure that those
unable to get to the game will see the 'old lady' get a brilliant send off.
Sky regulars Tony Gale and Tony Cottee will be giving hourly bulletins from
Upton Park whilst Bill Bonds and Alan Devonshire will be heavily featured.
The climax to the night is still shrouded in secrecy by the club although we
understand a large number of Irons 'legends' will be joining the
celebrations. BondsHowever, the club is desperate that fans remain in their
seats for the evening and any crowd invasion would be a disaster after
months of planning at considerable expense It would also prevent some of the
biggest names in club history from making their entrance for the last time
so let's all stay cool.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Great news for Dad Slav
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic's long term girlfriend, Ivana Djeldum is expecting her second
child with the West Ham manager according to Croatian tabloids. This will be
his fourth child and second with Ivana who gave birth to their first child
two years ago before he joined West Ham, last summer. His young daughter
Sofi and the two year old lives with her mother in his home town of Spilt,
and Slav regularly visits them when he gets time off from the Hammers. He
also has two children, a son and a daughter by his former wife of 14 years,
Andrijana Bilic who also lives in Spilt, Croatia. They are called Leo who is
now nineteen and Alani who is twelve. Congratulations to Slaven and Ivana on
their news from ClaretandHugh.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers seat sales soon underway
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 27, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
West Ham are close to organising how fans will buy their seats to keep as a
permanent reminder of their old Boleyn home. ClaretandHugh has learned this
morning (Wed) that the club will be dismantling the seats after the final
game and those who have sat in the same seat for years will either be
allowed to collect it for a fee or have it delivered. No price has been
revealed but sources are claiming they will be sold at around £70. A
spokesman for the club told us: "All the plans are in place and we will be
revealing costs and all the rest of the details on line very soon. "It's not
an entirely straightforward operation as the back and bottom of the seat has
to be remove from the bits of fittings. "We will be providing the back nd
seat itself and it would probably be preferable if they were collected from
the club although we would expect to also put delivery plans into effect for
those who can't manage that.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham loan star Reece Burke gained recognition for his fantastic season
at Bradford City by winning seven awards on Tuesday night at the club's
presentation evening. The 19-year-old Academy product collected the main
accolade – club Player of the Year – as well as similar awards from a number
of supporters' clubs. Also picking up the Most Consistent Player prize, it
was a terrific evening overall for the defender who has made 34 appearances
for the Bantams this season. After collecting the awards, the centre-back
said: "To win seven, I don't know what to say. It's a big achievement for
me. I couldn't thank people enough; my family and people who have voted for
me. "The aim when moving to Bradford was to get a few league games under my
belt but I've come a long way since then! I've played quite a few and it's
great to win Player of the Year. "It means a lot for my family to be here
when I collected my awards. We're very close. My Dad comes up for most games
and travels back, so it's hard work for him, but if it wasn't for him I
wouldn't be the man I am today. "I think working with the manager and being
around the players has helped me develop. I've grown up quite quick on the
pitch and it's been a great season for me."
Burke is just one of many promising Hammers who have been successful out on
loan this term; Josh Cullen has impressed alongside him at Bradford while
Elliot Lee and Kyle Knoyle have done well at Colchester United and Dundee
United respectively. City manager Phil Parkinson was full of praise for the
pair of Hammers, who have grown up at the Academy of Football, he has had at
his disposal this season. "We have been delighted with the progress that
both Burke and Cullen have made since arriving at the club," he said.
"Obviously Reece came up first towards the start of the season and he
settled in well with the rest of the players and in the area itself. "The
exact same can be said about Josh when he joined too. They have performed
excellently for us during their time here and they are both examples of the
young players West Ham United are trying to produce. They are a credit to
their Club."
In his first full season in senior football, Burke played three times for
the Hammers in their Europa League ties at the start of the season, before
joining the play-off chasing League One side. His loan move, which has seen
the rising star become a fans' favourite at Valley Parade, came on the back
of six impressive displays in Claret and Blue for the first team at the tail
end of last term. Bradford City are currently fifth in League One and look
set for a play-off campaign, having narrowly missed out last term, in a bid
to win promotion to the Championship.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins - I'm dying to play my part
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender James Collins is itching to get back on the pitch after
returning from injury and is looking forward to facing a manager this
weekend who once tried to sign him.
The big centre-half, who made a cameo return appearance from the bench
against Watford last week, is fit and ready for selection having recovered
from a hamstring problem as the Hammers face West Bromwich Albion at the
Hawthorns on Saturday.
And the Welshman revealed that Baggies manager Tony Pulis, then boss of
Stoke City, was a big fan of his years ago, however the 32-year-old instead
left the Hammers for Aston Villa.
Collins said: "I almost signed for [Pulis] a couple of years back when he
was at Stoke. I went to Villa a couple of days later instead, though.
"He is from Newport and grew up not far from me, so I've always had a good
bit of banter with him. I know boys that have played for him, but he's a
great manager and a great man.
"He gets his teams working hard and it's going to be tough on Saturday.
We're confident though that we can get the three points. I am dying to get
back on the pitch and play my part in the rest of the season."
Prior to the 3-1 victory over the Hornets, Collins last appeared for Slaven
Bilic's side in the Hammers' 1-0 win against rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The defender admitted that it has been a slower return to match fitness than
he would have liked, but he now wants to help the side finish as high up the
Premier League table as possible.
"It took me a bit longer to get fit than I wanted and I had a couple of
setbacks, but I'm looking forward to getting some game time now and looking
forward to the Euros too," continued the Wales international.
"It's still been a great season for us. If you ask the rest of the boys,
they'll probably say the same as me, that we've conceded a few too many
goals recently, and I'm not just saying that because I'm not playing!
"We could have had a few wins where we've drawn, but we're still going well
and we're looking forward to the last three games. We're working to finish
as high up as we can.
"There have been times where a couple of decisions have gone against us but
we need to finish off strongly as we don't want to fizzle out – we need to
carry it on."
Collins – capped by Wales on 46 occasions – will join up with the rest of
the Dragons' squad and manager Chris Coleman at the end of the season for
UEFA Euro 2016 in France, and he is looking forward to the nation's huge
clash with Roy Hodgson's England.
"The draw has been made and obviously we have got England, so it's going to
be a massive tournament and a massive game against them. We're meeting up
quite early though, so we'll be fully prepared and will have a good few
weeks to look forward to it.
"We will go there full of confidence that we can perform how we have been
[in the qualifiers] and confident of getting to the next stage."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Football journalist Rory Smith reckons the Juventus are a fitting club to
for the Hammers to open the new Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
against in August…
There's no doubt that the Hammers' opponents in the first game at their new
Stadium – Juventus – are one of the world's biggest clubs, something that
has perhaps been forgotten in recent years with Barcelona and Bayern Munich
taking over.
The Old Lady are massive, though; to think they have won 32 Serie A titles
is extraordinary. They say that one in every two football fans in Italy is a
Juventus fan, meaning they're beyond the Manchester United of Italy. You
either actively support them or actively support against them over there. It
shows what a genuinely massive club they are.
They are one of the three teams in Serie A to own their stadium, they have
now won five titles in a row and they are regulars in the latter stages of
the UEFA Champions League. They obviously got to the final of the
competition last season, and many would have backed them to get to the
quarters or the semis again had they not met Bayern in the last-16 this
year. Even in that tie, they ran the German side close.
They are a team on the up, that's for sure. They often provide the backbone
for the Italy team, and the three of Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and
Leonardo Bonucci are Italian football-made flesh. They're brutal, hard and
tough – and a little bit snide in a nice way – but also elegant and what you
think of when you consider Italian football.
One of the reasons Fiorentina hate Juventus is because they feel they have
always been over-represented in the Italy side. Gianluigi Buffon is one of
those players who you want to appreciate watching now; there's a good chance
he's the best goalkeeper who has ever lived. Not just his ability
contributes to that, but also how long he lasted at the top of world
football for club and country.
I remember him making his debut for Parma when he was 18, and that would
have been almost 21 years ago. He's one of those players that when your
grandkids ask 'who have you seen play?', it would be nice to answer
'Gianluigi Buffon'. West Ham fans now have a chance to do that.
Like West Ham, Juventus are a factory team, and they have massive English
links with their former managers.
They're a side full of symbolic Italian players, however they also have some
younger, exciting players as well. Paul Pogba is arguably one of the most
complete midfielders in Europe; Paulo Dybala is the next Argentinian
sensation…there are lots of players who are worth watching.
It is sure to be an exciting game to open the new Stadium that everyone
connected with West Ham will be looking forward to.
Rory Smith's new book 'Mister: The Men Who Gave The World The Game' is
available now online and from most good bookshops.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not
necessarily the opinions held by West Ham United.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
News
Politics
Football
Sport
Celebs
TV & Film
Weird News
TRENDINGCRISTIANO RONALDODELE ALLICHAMPIONS LEAGUEPREMIER LEAGUE TITLE
RACEHILLSBOROUGH INQUESTS Technology Money Travel Fashion Mums
Home
Sport Football West Ham transfer news
West Ham out of transfer chase for Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as they
focus on signing a top striker
22:30, 27 APR 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
Hammers chiefs have decided to invest major funds in the centre-forward
position with Michy Batshuayi and Christian Benteke among the names on their
radar
The Mirror
West Ham have decided against pursuing a move for Arsenal 's Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain — because they have already made a high-class striker
their main priority.
We revealed last week that the ambitious Hammers - still chasing Champions
League qualification with four games to go - have been offered midfielder
Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the Gunners set to offload a number of players this
summer.
But the Irons are currently battling London neighbours and rivals Spurs for
the signature of Marseille marksman Michy Batshuayi, who has scored 19 goals
this season.
They have also confirmed their interest in out-of-favour Liverpool frontman
Christian Benteke.
A decision has been taken to invest substantial funds into addressing the
centre-forward position ahead of next season, even though the club are among
the Premier League's highest scorers in the current campaign.
Talented England international Oxlade-Chamberlain has also attracted
attention from his former club Southampton and both Manchester giants.
The 22-year-old, who has two years left on his contract, has 24 caps for
England but is unlikely to be picked for the European Championship this
summer as he is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ticket booking fees rise by 30%
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Booking fees for buying tickets over the telephone from West Ham's new
ticket partner Ticket Master have increased by 30% to £1.95 per ticket.
Under the current contract with See Tickets at the Boleyn Ground,
Bondholders/Season Ticket Holders/Academy and Youth Academy Member pay £1.50
per ticket. However, buying tickets online for the Olympic Stadium will
remain the same at £1 per ticket booking fee.
A source close to the ticket office told Claret and Hugh
"Unfortunately, this was a tough decision but we took in the fans view on
the problems encountered with the current box office particularly in the
time spent waiting on the phone due to the small size of the See Tickets
call centre"
The source added "It's tough to find an improved system at the same cost,
Ticket Master offer a better service but for this, supporters will have a
slightly higher charge applied to their transactions. We have battled hard
to keep the online the same and this is where biggest improvement in terms
of demand and also usage will be seen"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sky plan a massive Boleyn farewell
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 27, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
Sky Sports will be serving up a Hammers treat for the last game at the
Boleyn. Plans are well advanced from the broadcaster to ensure that those
unable to get to the game will see the 'old lady' get a brilliant send off.
Sky regulars Tony Gale and Tony Cottee will be giving hourly bulletins from
Upton Park whilst Bill Bonds and Alan Devonshire will be heavily featured.
The climax to the night is still shrouded in secrecy by the club although we
understand a large number of Irons 'legends' will be joining the
celebrations. BondsHowever, the club is desperate that fans remain in their
seats for the evening and any crowd invasion would be a disaster after
months of planning at considerable expense It would also prevent some of the
biggest names in club history from making their entrance for the last time
so let's all stay cool.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Great news for Dad Slav
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic's long term girlfriend, Ivana Djeldum is expecting her second
child with the West Ham manager according to Croatian tabloids. This will be
his fourth child and second with Ivana who gave birth to their first child
two years ago before he joined West Ham, last summer. His young daughter
Sofi and the two year old lives with her mother in his home town of Spilt,
and Slav regularly visits them when he gets time off from the Hammers. He
also has two children, a son and a daughter by his former wife of 14 years,
Andrijana Bilic who also lives in Spilt, Croatia. They are called Leo who is
now nineteen and Alani who is twelve. Congratulations to Slaven and Ivana on
their news from ClaretandHugh.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers seat sales soon underway
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 27, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
West Ham are close to organising how fans will buy their seats to keep as a
permanent reminder of their old Boleyn home. ClaretandHugh has learned this
morning (Wed) that the club will be dismantling the seats after the final
game and those who have sat in the same seat for years will either be
allowed to collect it for a fee or have it delivered. No price has been
revealed but sources are claiming they will be sold at around £70. A
spokesman for the club told us: "All the plans are in place and we will be
revealing costs and all the rest of the details on line very soon. "It's not
an entirely straightforward operation as the back and bottom of the seat has
to be remove from the bits of fittings. "We will be providing the back nd
seat itself and it would probably be preferable if they were collected from
the club although we would expect to also put delivery plans into effect for
those who can't manage that.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, April 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th April 2016
Parfitt-Williams - If felt amazing
WHUFC.com
Development Squad striker Djair Parfitt-Williams admitted it felt amazing to
score the winner in West Ham's 1-0 Barclays U21 Premier League Cup final
first leg victory. The 19-year-old tapped home the game's only goal in the
last minute of regular time to send the 10,000 inside the Boleyn Ground, for
its final final, into raptures. Parfitt-Williams, returning from injury, is
the Hammers' top goalscorer in the competition and was delighted to add to
his tally with such an important strike. He said: "It felt amazing. It was
the 90th minute and it was 0-0 for the whole game before that so to score in
the last minute, especially at Upton Park with a lot of fans here, felt
amazing. "We created some good chances. I think we could have played a
little bit quicker at times in the first half but in the second half we
started to break them down a little bit more and looked quite dangerous.
"It's a good achievement [to score] but to get this far is about my
teammates and my coaches and everything."
Parfitt-Williams bagged in the previous Cup wins against Exeter, Fulham and
Blackburn and added his fourth with a real poachers' effort in the final
first leg. "I guess I'm in the right place at the right time!" he continued.
"That's what the one was tonight. I was in a good position. "I knew if I
stayed in the middle of the box, Josh [Cullen] would clip it in far post and
I knew Reece [Oxford] or Doneil [Henry] would get it back across. I stayed
in a good position. "We're confident to go anywhere and beat anybody, as we
have such a good team. 1-0 definitely gives us a good mood in training and
we should be confident going into the second leg."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loyal fan Graham granted ticket wish
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will welcome loyal supporter Graham White to celebrate his
birthday at the Club's last-ever fixture at the Boleyn Ground.
Graham, from Canvey Island in Essex, was forced to give up his Season Ticket
after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease – a rare life-shortening
condition that causes progressive damage to parts of the nervous system –
two years ago.
The grandfather applied to attend the Barclays Premier League visit of
Manchester United on Tuesday 10 May through a Members' Ballot, but was
unfortunately unsuccessful.
With his condition potentially preventing Graham from attending matches in
future seasons, his family began a campaign last week to enable him to bid
the Boleyn Ground a personal farewell.
Sue Nash, chairman of South Essex Motor Neurone Disease, posted an appeal on
Facebook on Friday which was shared more than 11,000 times, while others
tweeted Joint-Chairman David Gold, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady and David
Sullivan's sons Jack and Dave.
On Monday, all four contacted the Ticket Office and arrangements were
quickly made through the Hammers accessibility liaison officier Julie
Pidgeon and Graham's wife Pat to enable the birthday boy and one of his
grandsons to attend the match.
"It's absolutely brilliant," said Nash. "We are so grateful to West Ham. It
went crazy. In the first 15 minutes we had 50 shares. We had no idea that it
would go like this.
"People were saying they would carry him if they had to."
In a joint statement, Mr Sullivan, Mr Gold and Baroness Brady said it was
fitting that a loyal fan would be celebrating what would potentially be his
last live match at somewhere he truly loved being alongside his fellow
Hammers.
"Everyone at the club has been moved by Graham's loyal support for West Ham
United, and the love shown by his family and friends in contacting us," they
said.
"Since being made aware of Graham's wish to attend the final game at the
Boleyn Ground, we all personally made contact with the Ticket Office to
ensure he could attend the game.
"The board are now looking forward to welcoming Graham and his grandson to
the Boleyn Ground for the club's historic final match against Manchester
United."
Nash, of Leigh-on-Sea, said people had offered to give up their tickets, but
the seat needed to have disabled access because Graham is completely reliant
on his wheelchair.
She continued: "For people to do that is just so heart-warming. Graham is a
quiet and shy man. He's absolutely blown away.
"At the weekend he could not believe that at that stage 10,000 people had
taken the time to do that for him. I have had a thousand personal messages
as well.
"It's given him such a lift that people actually care."
Nash said the campaign had started after their 17-year-old grandsons, James
and Nicholas, offered to take their granddad to the game if they could get a
ticket.
"It's just absolutely phenomenal. It's overwhelming actually. We have had
messages where we have laughed and other ones that have just been so
overwhelming.
"We can't thank the public enough for getting in touch and taking such an
interest."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Martin Samuelsen
WHUFC.com
Exciting young prospect Martin Samuelsen played 90 minutes for the
Development Squad on Monday in their 1-0 U21 Premier League Cup final
victory over Hull City after returning from his loan spell at Peterborough
United.
The Norwegian youth international was a handful for the Tigers throughout,
testing the keeper a number of times and forcing two strong penalty appeals
for the hosts.
The 19-year-old spoke about the young Hammers' display in the first tie,
hopes for the second leg and his experiences in League One…
Martin, it looked like that goal was never going to come!
MS: "No, we had a few chances to score, but we kept going and we were really
happy when we got the goal in the last minute or so. We thought they were
going to sit low and let us play, but when they came out, they did quite the
opposite. They pressed us high and gave us a few problems, but I think we
dealt with them well and we deserved to win."
There was plenty of dribbling from you – were you pleased with the way you
played?
MS: "Yeah, I like dribbling as you can see! But I also like to score goals,
and I didn't [score one], so I'm a bit disappointed. I had a few chances to
score. We should have had two penalties but overall, I'm pleased. If we play
like this in the second leg [against Hull City at the KC Stadium], we should
win."
It was a strange one with the penalty appeals – did you speak to the referee
after the game?
MS: "I spoke to him and he said it looked like the other guy got to the ball
first, but he kicked me in my calf so I've got a dead leg now and no
penalty! We just need to get back to training now and practice more and hope
that next time, the chances go in."
It was good to see Djair Parfitt-Williams score the goal as well, wasn't it?
MS: "Yeah, Djair is just back from injury. He's three or four weeks ahead of
schedule so it was great for him to be out there today. He's an amazing
football player. He's got great skills, can score goals and he'll definitely
be one for the future."
What have you learnt from your time on loan at Peterborough United?
MS: "With Peterborough in League One, I've learnt the tough side of the
game; the physical side, that every game means something. People are
fighting for their lives. It was a good experience for me and I think I'm a
stronger person and better player from it."
Was it great to be back at the Boleyn Ground?
MS: "Yeah, it's nice. I remember playing here in the Europa League at the
beginning of the season so it's good to be back here to get a game before it
is taken down. West Ham is where I want to be. It's a fantastic Club. This
season has been amazing for me, coming from Manchester City, barely playing
games, to where I am now. I can't believe it."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers trio enjoy Boleyn store signing
WHUFC.com
West Ham United supporters turned out in force at the Club's last ever
Official Stadium Store signing at the Boleyn Ground on Monday evening to
meet Manuel Lanzini, Pedro Obiang and Enner Valencia
With the opportunity to meet their heroes ahead of the U21's cup final match
against Hull, which the Dev Squad subsequently won 1-0, the stadium store
was heaving with excited Hammers, young and old.
Fans had the opportunity to get official merchandise signed and to pose for
photos with the first team trio.
Speaking after the event, Obiang explained: "It is always amazing to meet
some of our fans. The support for us in the final season at the Boleyn
Ground has been incredible and in my first season at the club, it has been
great to witness.
"It's nice to be able to spend some time with them and so we appreciate them
coming out to see us.
"You could see that with the number of people that came out and supported
that younger players in their cup final. It was nice to see the younger ones
in action and maybe next season some of those playing will be pushing for
places in the first team squad."
Local fan, Bobby, 11 from Hornchurch was delighted to get the opportunity to
meet the trio.
Bobby enthused: "It was brilliant to meet the players, they were so nice and
happy to sign things and to take photos. It's strange to be next to them
because normally, you only see them on the television or on the pitch and
you don't get a chance to be that close to them.
"I will look after the shirt they signed for me and look forward to showing
it off to all my friends."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ogbonna excited to face former club
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender Angelo Ogbonna revealed his excitement to welcome former
club Juventus to London for the Club's first game in the new Stadium on
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The defender played for the Italian giants for two seasons before joining
Slaven Bilic's side last summer and was at the new Stadium when the friendly
fixture was announced.
Last season's Champions League finalists clinched the Serie A title for the
fifth consecutive campaign on Monday – their 32nd in total – and will be the
Hammers' first visitors to their new home on Sunday 7 August at 1pm.
Ogbonna, who won two Serie A titles and a Coppa Italia while playing for the
Old Lady, cannot wait for the occasion.
He said: "I'm really excited. It's my old team Juventus and everything [here
at the Stadium] looks amazing. The pitch is amazing, I think our support
will be amazing and I'm so excited.
"It will be a massive crowd and it's very important for us to have this new
place waiting for us and I can't wait.
"For us, it's a big game and I hope it will be the first win for us in our
new ground as well!"
The 27-year-old played 55 times for Turin-based Juventus from 2013 to 2015
after he had spent the early years of his career playing in the city for
neighbours Torino having come through their youth ranks.
Capped by Italy at international level, Ogbonna has experience playing
alongside a number of the Juventus squad members, including Gianluigi
Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini, Claudio Marchisio and Leonardo Bonucci.
On welcoming some of his former teammates to to east London, Ogbonna said:
"I'll be looking forward to seeing some old friends, why not!
"Step by step, hopefully we can play a lot of big clubs at the new Stadium
like Juventus very regularly. I wish for this season to end well as it has
been really great.
"We of course have to always look ahead to the next game but the Juventus
one will be massive so we are looking forward to it."
Tickets for the mouth-watering visit of Massimiliano Allegri's star-studded
UEFA Champions League regulars went on sale to 2015/16 Season Ticket Holders
at 12noon yesterday here.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers ahead in Lacazette race?
April 26, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
BKHammer
Lyon star Alexandre Lacazette is back among the goals, after a slow start to
the season. The 24-year-old scored in Lyon's 3-2 win over Toulouse, and has
now scored 18 goals this season in Ligue 1. On Monday, French newspaper
L'Equipe said Tottenham, West Ham, and Atletico Madrid have positioned
themselves to sign the French international in the summer. That comes just a
few days after L'Equipe stated, on Friday, that both the English clubs had
already submitted bids for the player. L'Equipe reckon Lacazette will only
consider switching clubs in the summer if he is promised regular playing
time at his next destination, otherwise he doesn't mind staying for another
season in France.
West Ham could offer Lacazette regular playing time, but it's very unlikely
he'd be the first choice at Tottenham considering Harry Kane's performances,
except if they decide to play him wide, which he is capable of. Then again,
why would you buy a player best known for his main position as a striker,
not regarded as a forward who can slip between both equally well, and play
him on the wing? Lacazette also wouldn't be first choice at Atleti
considering his countryman Antoine Griezmann would be ahead of him there.
Both Tottenham and Atleti have the lure of Champions League football next
season, but West Ham's new ambitious era, good wages, and an almost
guaranteed starting spot may edge them ahead.
Lacazette has proven himself to be a regular goal scorer, and has managed
over 20 goals in each of the last three seasons and has become one of the
hottest striking targets in Europe over the last few transfer windows. The
French media reported that Newcastle United where close to clinching a deal
to sign him earlier this season for £22m.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic & Carroll escape punishment but Vardy cops it
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News
C and H
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and striker Andy Carroll will not be charged by
the Football Association over their comments about referee Jon Moss the FA
have confirmed. Bilic has been "reminded of his responsibilities" and
Carroll "warned as to his future conduct" after the duo criticised Moss
following the 2-2 draw with Leicester City on 17 April. Carroll said Moss
tried to "even things up" with the award of a late penalty. Bilic suggested
the referee had been "influenced" by the home crowd. Meanwhile, Jamie Vardy
will miss Leicester City's game at Manchester United after being hit with an
additional one-match ban by the Football Association. Vardy has also been
fined £10,000 after his attempts to avoid an extra suspension were thrown
out by an independent regulatory commission on Monday. Leicester City were
also charged with failing to control their players in their game with West
Ham.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Batshuayi sets his sights high
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News
C and H
Long time West Ham target Michy Batshuayi is understood to want Champions
League football should be be allowed to leave Marseille this summer. The
Irons, Spurs, , Juventus and Roma – are tracking the striker who has scored
19 goals in 43 appearances this term. And according to Press Association
Sport if Marseille agree to sell the playerhe will look for clubs involved
in the Champions League. West Ham can offer the prospect of home games at
the Olympic Stadium next season but we are struggling to qualify for
Europe's premier competition being eight points adrift of the top four.
Batshuayi moved to Marseille from Standard Liege in August 2014 and the
22-year-old feels a strong sense of gratitude so will not force a transfer
this summer but Marseille are 16th in Ligue 1, just five points above the
relegation places. According to reports in France, Marseille want the fee to
exceed the £24million they sold Didier Drogba to Chelsea for in 2004.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Martin Samuelson stands out
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
C and H
Last night, I joined ten thousand fellow Hammers to brave the freezing
weather to cheer on the West Ham Academy boys in the Premier League U21 Cup
first leg at the Boleyn Ground under the famous lights. Premier League class
it was not, but Martin Samuelson stole the show and looked heads and
shoulders above everyone else on the pitch. His tricks and turns were
amazing and I can really see him having a great West Ham career in the
senior team soon. Honourable mentions go to Reece Oxford, Josh Cullen and
Sam Byram, all of which played against Hull City U21's last night. It is was
probably no surprise that the players with experience of playing in front of
big crowds shone out but in general, it was a lacklustre performance from
the development team. To be fair to Hull, they stopped the West Ham
youngsters playing their game plan and the Hammers became more and more
frustrated until Terry Westley made all three substitutions on 65 minutes.
The change paid off and on the 89th minute broke the dead-lock with a goal
from Djair Parfitt–Williams.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic watching winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News
C and H
It's no surprise to find Slaven Bilic being linked with another Turkish
player this morning – Gaziantepspor winger Orkan Cinar. The Irons boss is
continually reported to be maintaining a close watch on the Turkish market
but has yet to sign a single player from the country. However, Fanatik is
reporting that the Hammers boss has been alerted to 20 year-old Cinar's
progress and has had the youngster scouted. German-born, the midfielder
arrived at the Turkish club last year from SpVgg Greuther Fürth and has
scored three goals in 29 games. He is a former Wolfsburg junior. Turkish
sources are adamant Bilic wants to add Cinar to his squad for next season
but then they have been 'adamant' over other Turkish players apparently en
route to the Irons.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Question mark over this Hammer's future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham may be ready to consider bids for Pedro Obiang should a "sensible
offer" be made for the midfielder. The £4 million signing from Sampdoria has
struggled to hold down a regular place in the team this season amid regular
rumours that he could be on his way in the summer. Napoli and Palermo
continue to show an interest in the player who was brought into the club
before Slaven Bilic was made manager. Sources close to the player have told
ClaretandHugh that although the player is happy in London he is desperate to
get regular first team football but with the Hammers strengthening this
summer, things could even get harder for him. Obiang has buckled down to the
task of winning a place in the team very professionally after his agent Jose
Miguel Gonzalez commented publicly that he would consider a move if the
right offer came. And an offer which gives the Irons their money back on the
24 year old could well succeed when the transfer window opens.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Burke is desperate to play for Hammers
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reece Burke was desperate to play for the West Ham development team on
Monday night in the Premier League U21 Cup final first leg at the Boleyn
Ground. The Hammers eventually took the lead in the 90 minute thanks to
Djair Parfitt–Williams.
During a post match press conference West Ham Academy Director, Terry
Westley revealed: "Burke was desperate to play tonight, he came down, he
travelled and trained with us (on) Sunday. They (Bradford) have two games
and they could be play off semi finals and playing at Wembley. To be fair to
Bradford, it was not the time to stick him in the team. He lives 200 yards
away from this stadium, he is a West Ham boy through and through and he
wanted one chance. He warmed up with the team but the risk of playing him
was too great. Bradford are getting 18,000 at home matches, they know what
it is like to try and win every week"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Samulsen's future looks set
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Hot Hammers prospect Martin Samuelsen is all set for a Championship loan
deal next season.
The club will take the advice of Peterborough United director of football
Barry Fry and loan the player out until the January transfer window.
Samuelsen has made great progress in league One like compatriot Reece Burke
at Bradford City and David Sullivan, David Gold, Slaven Bilic and
Development team chief Terry Westley have been pleased with the teenager's
development.
Fry had told ClaretandHugh that he believed this was the best way forward
several weeks ago and an insider told us this afternoon: "That is very much
the plan.
"Martin needs to man up and be thrown into really competitive football.
Barry was spot on with his assessment and that's the road the club is set to
go down next season.
"He could go out at the start of the season and come back toughened up and
ready for Premier League action even by January."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bobby Moore to be honoured
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Bobby Moore will be honoured with a blue English Heritage plaque 50 years on
from lifting the World Cup at Wembley.
The plaque will be installed in Waverley Gardens, Barking, will mark the
house where Moore grew up and where he still lived when he made his England
debut in 1962.
Prof Ronald Hutton, chair of the English Heritage Blue Plaques Panel, said:
"Since 1866, these modest but distinctive blue roundels have reminded us of
the people and places that made history. It's a roll-call that underlines
the wide range of talent who over the centuries have made London their
home."
Bobby was born Robert Frederick Chelsea Moore at Barking Hospital (then
known as Upney Hospital) on 12 April 1941, while an air raid was raging
outside. Bobby, an only child, lived with his parents Robert and Doris in
Waverley Gardens, Barking.
He attended Westbury Infants and Junior Schools, and was often seen
practising his soccer skills in Greatfields Park. He was captain of the
Barking Primary Schools football team that won the Crisp Shield, a
London-wide schools tournament.
In 1956 Bobby joined West Ham United's youth squad, and was to remain with
the club until 1974. He played 108 matches for England, 90 as captain. After
leading the victorious England team in 1966, Bobby was voted BBC Sports
Personality of the Year and the following year was appointed OBE.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammer loses job after relegation
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former West Ham player, coach and caretaker manager, Kevin Keen has left his
position as Colchester United manager following their relegation from League
One.
The 49-year-old took charge last December, but did not achieve his first
league win until March.The team won only five out of 24 games under Keen and
relegation was confirmed by a defeat at the weekend
"After a meeting with the owner, Robbie Cowling over the future direction of
the club, Kevin Keen has decided to leave," a club statement said. "Kevin
has worked tirelessly to try and turn around the fortunes of the club this
season."
Keen began his career with Wycombe Wanderers before joining West Ham in
1983. He spent seven seasons with the "Hammers" making 219 appearances and
scoring 21 goals. He was twice promoted and twice relegated with the Irons.
He left for Wolves in 1993 after a poor contract offer by the then manager
Billy Bonds.
Keen2Keen rejoined West Ham in July 2002 as under-17 academy coach. He was
later appointed reserve team coach and became first-team coach in October
2006. Following the sacking of manager Alan Pardew in December 2006, he was
very briefly placed in temporary charge of first-team affairs until Alan
Curbishley was appointed two days later when he reverted to his previous
role as reserve team coach. He was formally announced as caretaker manager
on 3rd September 2008 after the resignation of manager Alan Curbishley. Keen
took charge of West Ham for one game only; a 3–2 away defeat to West Brom on
13th September 2008 before handing over the manager's role to Gianfranco
Zola. Keen was appointed again as caretaker-manager of West Ham, for their
last game of the 2010/2011 season, following the sacking of their previous
manager, Avram Grant on 15 May 2011.
After three spells as caretaker manager at West Ham, Keen left the club in
July 2011 to take up the role of first team coach at Liverpool.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers defender was "desperate" to play
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reece Burke was desperate to play for the West Ham development team on
Monday night in the Premier League U21 Cup final first leg at the Boleyn
Ground.
The Hammers eventually took the lead in the 90 minute thanks to Djair
Parfitt–Williams.
During a post match press conference West Ham Academy Director, Terry
Westley revealed: "Burke was desperate to play tonight, he came down, he
travelled and trained with us (on) Sunday. They (Bradford) have two games
and they could be play off semi finals and playing at Wembley.
"To be fair to Bradford, it was not the time to stick him in the team. He
lives 200 yards away from this stadium, he is a West Ham boy through and
through and he wanted one chance.
"He warmed up with the team but the risk of playing him was too great.
Bradford are getting 18,000 at home matches, they know what it is like to
try and win every week"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Development Squad striker Djair Parfitt-Williams admitted it felt amazing to
score the winner in West Ham's 1-0 Barclays U21 Premier League Cup final
first leg victory. The 19-year-old tapped home the game's only goal in the
last minute of regular time to send the 10,000 inside the Boleyn Ground, for
its final final, into raptures. Parfitt-Williams, returning from injury, is
the Hammers' top goalscorer in the competition and was delighted to add to
his tally with such an important strike. He said: "It felt amazing. It was
the 90th minute and it was 0-0 for the whole game before that so to score in
the last minute, especially at Upton Park with a lot of fans here, felt
amazing. "We created some good chances. I think we could have played a
little bit quicker at times in the first half but in the second half we
started to break them down a little bit more and looked quite dangerous.
"It's a good achievement [to score] but to get this far is about my
teammates and my coaches and everything."
Parfitt-Williams bagged in the previous Cup wins against Exeter, Fulham and
Blackburn and added his fourth with a real poachers' effort in the final
first leg. "I guess I'm in the right place at the right time!" he continued.
"That's what the one was tonight. I was in a good position. "I knew if I
stayed in the middle of the box, Josh [Cullen] would clip it in far post and
I knew Reece [Oxford] or Doneil [Henry] would get it back across. I stayed
in a good position. "We're confident to go anywhere and beat anybody, as we
have such a good team. 1-0 definitely gives us a good mood in training and
we should be confident going into the second leg."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loyal fan Graham granted ticket wish
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will welcome loyal supporter Graham White to celebrate his
birthday at the Club's last-ever fixture at the Boleyn Ground.
Graham, from Canvey Island in Essex, was forced to give up his Season Ticket
after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease – a rare life-shortening
condition that causes progressive damage to parts of the nervous system –
two years ago.
The grandfather applied to attend the Barclays Premier League visit of
Manchester United on Tuesday 10 May through a Members' Ballot, but was
unfortunately unsuccessful.
With his condition potentially preventing Graham from attending matches in
future seasons, his family began a campaign last week to enable him to bid
the Boleyn Ground a personal farewell.
Sue Nash, chairman of South Essex Motor Neurone Disease, posted an appeal on
Facebook on Friday which was shared more than 11,000 times, while others
tweeted Joint-Chairman David Gold, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady and David
Sullivan's sons Jack and Dave.
On Monday, all four contacted the Ticket Office and arrangements were
quickly made through the Hammers accessibility liaison officier Julie
Pidgeon and Graham's wife Pat to enable the birthday boy and one of his
grandsons to attend the match.
"It's absolutely brilliant," said Nash. "We are so grateful to West Ham. It
went crazy. In the first 15 minutes we had 50 shares. We had no idea that it
would go like this.
"People were saying they would carry him if they had to."
In a joint statement, Mr Sullivan, Mr Gold and Baroness Brady said it was
fitting that a loyal fan would be celebrating what would potentially be his
last live match at somewhere he truly loved being alongside his fellow
Hammers.
"Everyone at the club has been moved by Graham's loyal support for West Ham
United, and the love shown by his family and friends in contacting us," they
said.
"Since being made aware of Graham's wish to attend the final game at the
Boleyn Ground, we all personally made contact with the Ticket Office to
ensure he could attend the game.
"The board are now looking forward to welcoming Graham and his grandson to
the Boleyn Ground for the club's historic final match against Manchester
United."
Nash, of Leigh-on-Sea, said people had offered to give up their tickets, but
the seat needed to have disabled access because Graham is completely reliant
on his wheelchair.
She continued: "For people to do that is just so heart-warming. Graham is a
quiet and shy man. He's absolutely blown away.
"At the weekend he could not believe that at that stage 10,000 people had
taken the time to do that for him. I have had a thousand personal messages
as well.
"It's given him such a lift that people actually care."
Nash said the campaign had started after their 17-year-old grandsons, James
and Nicholas, offered to take their granddad to the game if they could get a
ticket.
"It's just absolutely phenomenal. It's overwhelming actually. We have had
messages where we have laughed and other ones that have just been so
overwhelming.
"We can't thank the public enough for getting in touch and taking such an
interest."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Martin Samuelsen
WHUFC.com
Exciting young prospect Martin Samuelsen played 90 minutes for the
Development Squad on Monday in their 1-0 U21 Premier League Cup final
victory over Hull City after returning from his loan spell at Peterborough
United.
The Norwegian youth international was a handful for the Tigers throughout,
testing the keeper a number of times and forcing two strong penalty appeals
for the hosts.
The 19-year-old spoke about the young Hammers' display in the first tie,
hopes for the second leg and his experiences in League One…
Martin, it looked like that goal was never going to come!
MS: "No, we had a few chances to score, but we kept going and we were really
happy when we got the goal in the last minute or so. We thought they were
going to sit low and let us play, but when they came out, they did quite the
opposite. They pressed us high and gave us a few problems, but I think we
dealt with them well and we deserved to win."
There was plenty of dribbling from you – were you pleased with the way you
played?
MS: "Yeah, I like dribbling as you can see! But I also like to score goals,
and I didn't [score one], so I'm a bit disappointed. I had a few chances to
score. We should have had two penalties but overall, I'm pleased. If we play
like this in the second leg [against Hull City at the KC Stadium], we should
win."
It was a strange one with the penalty appeals – did you speak to the referee
after the game?
MS: "I spoke to him and he said it looked like the other guy got to the ball
first, but he kicked me in my calf so I've got a dead leg now and no
penalty! We just need to get back to training now and practice more and hope
that next time, the chances go in."
It was good to see Djair Parfitt-Williams score the goal as well, wasn't it?
MS: "Yeah, Djair is just back from injury. He's three or four weeks ahead of
schedule so it was great for him to be out there today. He's an amazing
football player. He's got great skills, can score goals and he'll definitely
be one for the future."
What have you learnt from your time on loan at Peterborough United?
MS: "With Peterborough in League One, I've learnt the tough side of the
game; the physical side, that every game means something. People are
fighting for their lives. It was a good experience for me and I think I'm a
stronger person and better player from it."
Was it great to be back at the Boleyn Ground?
MS: "Yeah, it's nice. I remember playing here in the Europa League at the
beginning of the season so it's good to be back here to get a game before it
is taken down. West Ham is where I want to be. It's a fantastic Club. This
season has been amazing for me, coming from Manchester City, barely playing
games, to where I am now. I can't believe it."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers trio enjoy Boleyn store signing
WHUFC.com
West Ham United supporters turned out in force at the Club's last ever
Official Stadium Store signing at the Boleyn Ground on Monday evening to
meet Manuel Lanzini, Pedro Obiang and Enner Valencia
With the opportunity to meet their heroes ahead of the U21's cup final match
against Hull, which the Dev Squad subsequently won 1-0, the stadium store
was heaving with excited Hammers, young and old.
Fans had the opportunity to get official merchandise signed and to pose for
photos with the first team trio.
Speaking after the event, Obiang explained: "It is always amazing to meet
some of our fans. The support for us in the final season at the Boleyn
Ground has been incredible and in my first season at the club, it has been
great to witness.
"It's nice to be able to spend some time with them and so we appreciate them
coming out to see us.
"You could see that with the number of people that came out and supported
that younger players in their cup final. It was nice to see the younger ones
in action and maybe next season some of those playing will be pushing for
places in the first team squad."
Local fan, Bobby, 11 from Hornchurch was delighted to get the opportunity to
meet the trio.
Bobby enthused: "It was brilliant to meet the players, they were so nice and
happy to sign things and to take photos. It's strange to be next to them
because normally, you only see them on the television or on the pitch and
you don't get a chance to be that close to them.
"I will look after the shirt they signed for me and look forward to showing
it off to all my friends."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ogbonna excited to face former club
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender Angelo Ogbonna revealed his excitement to welcome former
club Juventus to London for the Club's first game in the new Stadium on
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The defender played for the Italian giants for two seasons before joining
Slaven Bilic's side last summer and was at the new Stadium when the friendly
fixture was announced.
Last season's Champions League finalists clinched the Serie A title for the
fifth consecutive campaign on Monday – their 32nd in total – and will be the
Hammers' first visitors to their new home on Sunday 7 August at 1pm.
Ogbonna, who won two Serie A titles and a Coppa Italia while playing for the
Old Lady, cannot wait for the occasion.
He said: "I'm really excited. It's my old team Juventus and everything [here
at the Stadium] looks amazing. The pitch is amazing, I think our support
will be amazing and I'm so excited.
"It will be a massive crowd and it's very important for us to have this new
place waiting for us and I can't wait.
"For us, it's a big game and I hope it will be the first win for us in our
new ground as well!"
The 27-year-old played 55 times for Turin-based Juventus from 2013 to 2015
after he had spent the early years of his career playing in the city for
neighbours Torino having come through their youth ranks.
Capped by Italy at international level, Ogbonna has experience playing
alongside a number of the Juventus squad members, including Gianluigi
Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini, Claudio Marchisio and Leonardo Bonucci.
On welcoming some of his former teammates to to east London, Ogbonna said:
"I'll be looking forward to seeing some old friends, why not!
"Step by step, hopefully we can play a lot of big clubs at the new Stadium
like Juventus very regularly. I wish for this season to end well as it has
been really great.
"We of course have to always look ahead to the next game but the Juventus
one will be massive so we are looking forward to it."
Tickets for the mouth-watering visit of Massimiliano Allegri's star-studded
UEFA Champions League regulars went on sale to 2015/16 Season Ticket Holders
at 12noon yesterday here.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers ahead in Lacazette race?
April 26, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
BKHammer
Lyon star Alexandre Lacazette is back among the goals, after a slow start to
the season. The 24-year-old scored in Lyon's 3-2 win over Toulouse, and has
now scored 18 goals this season in Ligue 1. On Monday, French newspaper
L'Equipe said Tottenham, West Ham, and Atletico Madrid have positioned
themselves to sign the French international in the summer. That comes just a
few days after L'Equipe stated, on Friday, that both the English clubs had
already submitted bids for the player. L'Equipe reckon Lacazette will only
consider switching clubs in the summer if he is promised regular playing
time at his next destination, otherwise he doesn't mind staying for another
season in France.
West Ham could offer Lacazette regular playing time, but it's very unlikely
he'd be the first choice at Tottenham considering Harry Kane's performances,
except if they decide to play him wide, which he is capable of. Then again,
why would you buy a player best known for his main position as a striker,
not regarded as a forward who can slip between both equally well, and play
him on the wing? Lacazette also wouldn't be first choice at Atleti
considering his countryman Antoine Griezmann would be ahead of him there.
Both Tottenham and Atleti have the lure of Champions League football next
season, but West Ham's new ambitious era, good wages, and an almost
guaranteed starting spot may edge them ahead.
Lacazette has proven himself to be a regular goal scorer, and has managed
over 20 goals in each of the last three seasons and has become one of the
hottest striking targets in Europe over the last few transfer windows. The
French media reported that Newcastle United where close to clinching a deal
to sign him earlier this season for £22m.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic & Carroll escape punishment but Vardy cops it
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News
C and H
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and striker Andy Carroll will not be charged by
the Football Association over their comments about referee Jon Moss the FA
have confirmed. Bilic has been "reminded of his responsibilities" and
Carroll "warned as to his future conduct" after the duo criticised Moss
following the 2-2 draw with Leicester City on 17 April. Carroll said Moss
tried to "even things up" with the award of a late penalty. Bilic suggested
the referee had been "influenced" by the home crowd. Meanwhile, Jamie Vardy
will miss Leicester City's game at Manchester United after being hit with an
additional one-match ban by the Football Association. Vardy has also been
fined £10,000 after his attempts to avoid an extra suspension were thrown
out by an independent regulatory commission on Monday. Leicester City were
also charged with failing to control their players in their game with West
Ham.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Batshuayi sets his sights high
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News
C and H
Long time West Ham target Michy Batshuayi is understood to want Champions
League football should be be allowed to leave Marseille this summer. The
Irons, Spurs, , Juventus and Roma – are tracking the striker who has scored
19 goals in 43 appearances this term. And according to Press Association
Sport if Marseille agree to sell the playerhe will look for clubs involved
in the Champions League. West Ham can offer the prospect of home games at
the Olympic Stadium next season but we are struggling to qualify for
Europe's premier competition being eight points adrift of the top four.
Batshuayi moved to Marseille from Standard Liege in August 2014 and the
22-year-old feels a strong sense of gratitude so will not force a transfer
this summer but Marseille are 16th in Ligue 1, just five points above the
relegation places. According to reports in France, Marseille want the fee to
exceed the £24million they sold Didier Drogba to Chelsea for in 2004.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Martin Samuelson stands out
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
C and H
Last night, I joined ten thousand fellow Hammers to brave the freezing
weather to cheer on the West Ham Academy boys in the Premier League U21 Cup
first leg at the Boleyn Ground under the famous lights. Premier League class
it was not, but Martin Samuelson stole the show and looked heads and
shoulders above everyone else on the pitch. His tricks and turns were
amazing and I can really see him having a great West Ham career in the
senior team soon. Honourable mentions go to Reece Oxford, Josh Cullen and
Sam Byram, all of which played against Hull City U21's last night. It is was
probably no surprise that the players with experience of playing in front of
big crowds shone out but in general, it was a lacklustre performance from
the development team. To be fair to Hull, they stopped the West Ham
youngsters playing their game plan and the Hammers became more and more
frustrated until Terry Westley made all three substitutions on 65 minutes.
The change paid off and on the 89th minute broke the dead-lock with a goal
from Djair Parfitt–Williams.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic watching winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News
C and H
It's no surprise to find Slaven Bilic being linked with another Turkish
player this morning – Gaziantepspor winger Orkan Cinar. The Irons boss is
continually reported to be maintaining a close watch on the Turkish market
but has yet to sign a single player from the country. However, Fanatik is
reporting that the Hammers boss has been alerted to 20 year-old Cinar's
progress and has had the youngster scouted. German-born, the midfielder
arrived at the Turkish club last year from SpVgg Greuther Fürth and has
scored three goals in 29 games. He is a former Wolfsburg junior. Turkish
sources are adamant Bilic wants to add Cinar to his squad for next season
but then they have been 'adamant' over other Turkish players apparently en
route to the Irons.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Question mark over this Hammer's future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham may be ready to consider bids for Pedro Obiang should a "sensible
offer" be made for the midfielder. The £4 million signing from Sampdoria has
struggled to hold down a regular place in the team this season amid regular
rumours that he could be on his way in the summer. Napoli and Palermo
continue to show an interest in the player who was brought into the club
before Slaven Bilic was made manager. Sources close to the player have told
ClaretandHugh that although the player is happy in London he is desperate to
get regular first team football but with the Hammers strengthening this
summer, things could even get harder for him. Obiang has buckled down to the
task of winning a place in the team very professionally after his agent Jose
Miguel Gonzalez commented publicly that he would consider a move if the
right offer came. And an offer which gives the Irons their money back on the
24 year old could well succeed when the transfer window opens.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Burke is desperate to play for Hammers
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reece Burke was desperate to play for the West Ham development team on
Monday night in the Premier League U21 Cup final first leg at the Boleyn
Ground. The Hammers eventually took the lead in the 90 minute thanks to
Djair Parfitt–Williams.
During a post match press conference West Ham Academy Director, Terry
Westley revealed: "Burke was desperate to play tonight, he came down, he
travelled and trained with us (on) Sunday. They (Bradford) have two games
and they could be play off semi finals and playing at Wembley. To be fair to
Bradford, it was not the time to stick him in the team. He lives 200 yards
away from this stadium, he is a West Ham boy through and through and he
wanted one chance. He warmed up with the team but the risk of playing him
was too great. Bradford are getting 18,000 at home matches, they know what
it is like to try and win every week"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Samulsen's future looks set
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Hot Hammers prospect Martin Samuelsen is all set for a Championship loan
deal next season.
The club will take the advice of Peterborough United director of football
Barry Fry and loan the player out until the January transfer window.
Samuelsen has made great progress in league One like compatriot Reece Burke
at Bradford City and David Sullivan, David Gold, Slaven Bilic and
Development team chief Terry Westley have been pleased with the teenager's
development.
Fry had told ClaretandHugh that he believed this was the best way forward
several weeks ago and an insider told us this afternoon: "That is very much
the plan.
"Martin needs to man up and be thrown into really competitive football.
Barry was spot on with his assessment and that's the road the club is set to
go down next season.
"He could go out at the start of the season and come back toughened up and
ready for Premier League action even by January."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bobby Moore to be honoured
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Bobby Moore will be honoured with a blue English Heritage plaque 50 years on
from lifting the World Cup at Wembley.
The plaque will be installed in Waverley Gardens, Barking, will mark the
house where Moore grew up and where he still lived when he made his England
debut in 1962.
Prof Ronald Hutton, chair of the English Heritage Blue Plaques Panel, said:
"Since 1866, these modest but distinctive blue roundels have reminded us of
the people and places that made history. It's a roll-call that underlines
the wide range of talent who over the centuries have made London their
home."
Bobby was born Robert Frederick Chelsea Moore at Barking Hospital (then
known as Upney Hospital) on 12 April 1941, while an air raid was raging
outside. Bobby, an only child, lived with his parents Robert and Doris in
Waverley Gardens, Barking.
He attended Westbury Infants and Junior Schools, and was often seen
practising his soccer skills in Greatfields Park. He was captain of the
Barking Primary Schools football team that won the Crisp Shield, a
London-wide schools tournament.
In 1956 Bobby joined West Ham United's youth squad, and was to remain with
the club until 1974. He played 108 matches for England, 90 as captain. After
leading the victorious England team in 1966, Bobby was voted BBC Sports
Personality of the Year and the following year was appointed OBE.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammer loses job after relegation
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former West Ham player, coach and caretaker manager, Kevin Keen has left his
position as Colchester United manager following their relegation from League
One.
The 49-year-old took charge last December, but did not achieve his first
league win until March.The team won only five out of 24 games under Keen and
relegation was confirmed by a defeat at the weekend
"After a meeting with the owner, Robbie Cowling over the future direction of
the club, Kevin Keen has decided to leave," a club statement said. "Kevin
has worked tirelessly to try and turn around the fortunes of the club this
season."
Keen began his career with Wycombe Wanderers before joining West Ham in
1983. He spent seven seasons with the "Hammers" making 219 appearances and
scoring 21 goals. He was twice promoted and twice relegated with the Irons.
He left for Wolves in 1993 after a poor contract offer by the then manager
Billy Bonds.
Keen2Keen rejoined West Ham in July 2002 as under-17 academy coach. He was
later appointed reserve team coach and became first-team coach in October
2006. Following the sacking of manager Alan Pardew in December 2006, he was
very briefly placed in temporary charge of first-team affairs until Alan
Curbishley was appointed two days later when he reverted to his previous
role as reserve team coach. He was formally announced as caretaker manager
on 3rd September 2008 after the resignation of manager Alan Curbishley. Keen
took charge of West Ham for one game only; a 3–2 away defeat to West Brom on
13th September 2008 before handing over the manager's role to Gianfranco
Zola. Keen was appointed again as caretaker-manager of West Ham, for their
last game of the 2010/2011 season, following the sacking of their previous
manager, Avram Grant on 15 May 2011.
After three spells as caretaker manager at West Ham, Keen left the club in
July 2011 to take up the role of first team coach at Liverpool.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers defender was "desperate" to play
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 26, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reece Burke was desperate to play for the West Ham development team on
Monday night in the Premier League U21 Cup final first leg at the Boleyn
Ground.
The Hammers eventually took the lead in the 90 minute thanks to Djair
Parfitt–Williams.
During a post match press conference West Ham Academy Director, Terry
Westley revealed: "Burke was desperate to play tonight, he came down, he
travelled and trained with us (on) Sunday. They (Bradford) have two games
and they could be play off semi finals and playing at Wembley.
"To be fair to Bradford, it was not the time to stick him in the team. He
lives 200 yards away from this stadium, he is a West Ham boy through and
through and he wanted one chance.
"He warmed up with the team but the risk of playing him was too great.
Bradford are getting 18,000 at home matches, they know what it is like to
try and win every week"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th April 2016
Manager on Monday
Slaven Bilic has paid tribute to the hard work carried out by his backroom
staff to provide him with a fit and strong squad for the run-in. The West
Ham United manager had a full selection to pick from for Wednesday's 3-1
Barclays Premier League win over Watford. With four games to go and a
top-six finish to fight for, Bilic has publicly thanked his staff for their
commitment to the cause – particularly during a tough Christmas period, when
a number of concurrent injuries and suspensions left the Hammers' resources
stretched. At certain times, West Ham were without playmakers Dimitri Payet
and Manuel Lanzini, strikers Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho and defenders
James Collins and James Tomkins and loanee Carl Jenkinson. However, the
Hammers battled through those absences to remain unbeaten from 29 November
until 16 January. In all, West Ham have lost just nine of 47 matches in all
competitions under the Croatian.
With the coaching staff, fitness coach Miljenko Rak, head of medical and
sports science Stijn Vandenbroucke and their backroom colleagues working
hard to keep players fit and well, Bilic is now reaping the benefit of their
planning and methods. "Credit goes to the Medical team, the Sports Science
team and the Fitness team and to the whole staff, of course," said the
manager, whose side sit sixth in the table ahead of Saturday's trip to West
Bromwich Albion. "There was only one period in late October, November and
December – a long one – but there was only one game against Liverpool when
we were really restricted and very thin. "The guys from the Medical, Sports
Science and all that didn't stop and we didn't lose our heads and now and
over the last five or six games we are really in great shape and can cater
for all eventualities. "It's great for us, so I would like to say a big
'Thanks' to them because they have done a great job."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus to open new Stadium
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted and honoured to announce that Juventus will
provide the opposition for the historic opening fixture at the Club's new
home. The Hammers will welcome the Italian giants to the Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park on Sunday 7 August 2016 at 1pm, as the two sides
compete for the Betway Cup. Put simply, the Old Lady are one of the world's
biggest and most-successful clubs, with two UEFA Champions League trophies,
three UEFA Cups and more Serie A titles to their name than any other club.
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said the visit of the Italian
club to east London would be a fitting start to life at the Club's wonderful
60,000-capacity arena. "We are delighted to be marking such a monumental day
in West Ham United's history by welcoming one of the world's biggest clubs
to our fantastic new home," they said, in a joint-statement. "It was always
our intention to open the new 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park with a fixture fitting of the occasion, and the visit of the
reigning Italian champions Juventus is most certainly that.
"We are hugely excited and honoured by this wonderful opening fixture
against a historic club which shares many of the values we cherish here at
West Ham. "There has been an enormous amount of work done over the past few
years to ready the stadium for our first game and we cannot wait to show our
fans and the wider football world how incredible it will look. "This will be
a game you'll want to tell your grandkids you were at. Sunday 7 August just
can't come soon enough!"
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic added: "It will be a privilege to face
one of the biggest clubs in the world in our opening game at the new
Stadium. Like us, they are a club steeped in tradition, so it is fitting
that together we will create history with this match. "We hope this will be
the first of many games against Europe's top sides at our new home as we
begin the journey of turning West Ham United into a team capable of
competing with the best teams from across the continent. I know my staff and
players are very excited about what next season has in store."
West Ham and Juventus have never met previously, either in European
competition or in friendly action. However, there are some notable links
between the two historic clubs, with the impressive trio of Paolo Di Canio,
Liam Brady and current star Angelo Ogbonna having worn the colours of both.
Ogbonna himself is looking forward to welcoming many of his former teammates
to east London for the Betway Cup battle. "When I was told we were opening
the new Stadium with a match against Juventus, I could only smile, because
it is the perfect match for the occasion" said the Hammers centre-half. "I
spent two years with Juventus and they are without doubt one of the biggest
clubs in the world – I was honoured to wear the black and white shirt.
"Now, I am honoured to wear the Claret and Blue of West Ham United and I am
looking forward to taking to the pitch in front of 60,000 fans to face my
old team."
In 1973, Bobby Moore made his 108th and final England appearance against an
Italy side that included Juventus quartet Dino Zoff, Luciano Spinosi, Franco
Causio and Fabio Capello. Fast forward to the present day and Juventus are
unquestionably the biggest and best club in Italian football – and one of
the biggest and best in Europe. Formed in 1897, Juve have won the Serie A
title in each of the last four seasons and are on course to lift the trophy
for a fifth consecutive year in May. Managed by Massimiliano Allegri, La
Vecchia Signora possess a star-studded squad that includes self-confessed
West Ham fan and legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and fellow Italy
internationals Giorgio Chiellini, Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Barzagli and
Leonardo Bonucci. Alongside them, Allegri has a battery of top players,
including Dimitri Payet's France teammate Paul Pogba, Switzerland wing-back
Stephan Lichtsteiner, Germany midfielder Sami Khedira and a man Slaven Bilic
knows well, Croatia centre forward Mario Mandzukic.
Tickets for the Betway Cup will be available from just £20 for Adults and
£10 for Children and will go on sale to 2016/17 Season Ticket Holders at
12noon on Monday 25 April 2016 at eticketing.co.uk/whufc or via 0871 529
1966 (option 4). Season Ticket Holders will have until 9am Monday 9 May to
book their seat. After that tickets will be available to 2015/16 Academy
Members and supporters on the Priority List.
Please note any Season Ticket Holder wishing to purchase online must
activate their account at eticketing.co.uk/whufc before purchasing their
ticket.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley - It's still all to play for
WHUFC.com
Speaking after the Development Squad's 1-0 victory in the first leg of the
Barclays U21 Premier League final, Terry Westley said he was delighted to
have overcome a stubborn Hull City. The visiting Tigers proved formidable
opponents, solid in defence while a threat on the counter as it took the
Hammers until the 90th minute to break their opponents down as substitute
Djair Parfitt-Williams pounced on Doneil Henry's header. In what was the
last U21 match ever at the Boleyn Ground, in front of an impressive audience
of more than 10,000 Hammers, Westley reflected: "It was a tough game, like
any cup final would be. We didn't expect them to roll over for us, and I
thought Hull were very good. "I think there was a little bit of nerves,
due to the youthfulness of our players we have to except that, five of our
players tonight can still play for the youth team. "We weren't quite as good
as we have been for the majority of the season, and for that reason, taking
a 1-0 lead into the second leg, I'll take that."
Goalscorer Parfitt-Williams, who has now netted four times in the claret and
blues' cup campaign made an instant impact since returning from injury.
Westley continued: "I'm delighted for Djair because he has worked so hard to
become available for this game. He knocked on the door about a week ago and
said I think I can play. But he hasn't played for two and half months so we
had to start him on the bench, so credit to him and all the staff who have
helped him get back to quickly. "The goal will be great for his confidence
and we are delighted to have him back."
In little more than a week, the Hammers make the journey north for the
return leg and Westley and his players are under no illusions of how
difficult the task in hand will be. He explained: "It's a tough game now; we
know what we're in for. That goal has obviously given the tie a completely
different dynamic because they will have to come at us at some point. "So
that might open it up for us, but it'll be tough, it's all to play for."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll and Slaven Bilic: West Ham duo avoid Football Association
action
BBC.co.uk
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and striker Andy Carroll will not be charged by
the Football Association over their comments about referee Jon Moss.
Bilic has been "reminded of his responsibilities" and Carroll "warned as to
his future conduct" after the duo criticised Moss following the 2-2 draw
with Leicester City on 17 April. Carroll said Moss tried to "even things up"
with the award of a late penalty. Bilic suggested the referee had been
"influenced" by the home crowd. Moss sent off Leicester striker Jamie Vardy
for diving when his side led 1-0, before awarding West Ham a controversial
penalty, which Carroll converted to equalise. The visitors then took the
lead, before Moss gave Leicester an injury-time penalty for Carroll's nudge
on Jeffrey Schlupp, which substitute Leonardo Ulloa converted to rescue a
point. "People say he shouldn't be influenced [by the crowd], but this is
real life," Bilic told Match of the Day after the game.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No FA sanction for Carroll or Bilic
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 25th April 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's Slaven Bilic and Andy Carroll have escaped a potential
fine or ban by the Football Asociation after it was decided neither had a
case to answer.
The FA wrote to both individuals following the recent 2-2 draw with
Leicester City at the King Power Stadium asking them to explain comments
both made about official Jonathan Moss.
However it was confirmed this evening (Monday) that neither would face any
sanctions as a result - although, according to the BBC, Bilic was "reminded
of his responsibilities" and Carroll "warned as to his future conduct" by
the game's ruling body.
Carroll, who was adjudged to have failed Leicester substitute Leonardo Ulloa
in the closing stages of the game called Moss' decision to award a spot kick
against him "a poor decision".
"I think he's trying to even it up and I think a lot of people have said
that," retorted Carroll. "It's not acceptable, week-in, week-out we've had
bad decisions.
"Four decisions went against us. When we had our penalty, Wes Morgan said:
'he doesn't know what he's doing, he's been bad all game.' It's happening
every week and it's unacceptable."
Bilic, speaking immediately after the game told the press: "If you watch a
replay of our penalty you see the pulling and all that. If you watch their
penalty you will see a dive."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Monday Musings: A week of reflection
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th April 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
With the FA Cup semi finals in full swing, Slaven Bilic and his West Ham
United squad were afforded a rare weekend off.
Although the manager and his players would no doubt have preferred to be in
action on Saturday afternoon against Everton at Wembley, the recent quarter
final replay defeat at the hands of Manchester United put paid to the
Hammers' chances of going any further in the competition.
Of course, by rights West Ham should have been in the semi final without the
need for a replay, but referee Martin Atkinson somehow failed to spot
Bastian Schweinsteiger's blatant shove on goalkeeper Darren Randolph
milliseconds before Anthony Martial's late, late equaliser at Old Trafford
in the first meeting.
And that's been the story for West Ham in recent weeks, where a sting of
mystifying decisions have essentially killed off any lingering hopes the
Hammers may have harboured of qualifying for the Champions League for the
first time in their history.
Whilst those may be bitter blows for Bilic, the popular Croat should take
solace from a string of outstanding achievements so far season, his first as
a manager in the Premier League.
Last weekend's 3-1 win against Watford extended West Ham's unbeaten run at
home to 15 Premier League games, a top flight record for United. And with
just four games of the season left to play the Hammers have 56 points with a
positive (+14) goal difference.
That in itself may appear to be relatively unremarkable, but West Ham's
record points tally in a 38-game campaign is 57, achieved on Harry
Redknapp's watch nearly 20 years ago, meaning the current squad merely need
one more point to match it.
And as incredible as it may seem, you have to go back to 1985/86 and the
much-vaunted 'Boys of '86' to find West Ham last finishing a season in the
top flight with a positive goal difference, which barring a total collapse
will be emulated in a few weeks' time.
Bilic has already started making plans for the 2016/17 campaign, which will
commence in August at the Olympic Stadium (which will be known as something
quite different by then due to naming rights).
And it's to youth that he's currently turned, with the capture of
highly-rated striker Toni Martinez (19) from Valencia and, so it seems,
Portuguese midfielder Domingos Quina - still only 16 - from Chelsea's
Academy.
KUMB.com exclusively revealed last month that Bilic has already moved to
sign 25-year-old Norwegian defensive midfielder Havard Nordtveit from German
Bundesliga side BMG; he'll replace Alex Song who is returning to Barca.
So whilst this season may not be ending quite as we'd hoped, there's still
plenty of reasons to be cheerful for Bilic, his squad and us fans as the
curtain begins to close on a campaign that began way back in July against
Andorran minnows Lusitanos in the Europa League qualifying rounds.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
£50 for a friendly? What happened to affordable football?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th April 2016
By: Staff Writer
A number of West Ham supporters have reacted angrily to news that some will
be asked to pay up to £50 to watch the team tackle Juventus in a pre-season
friendly this August.
It was confirmed this morning that West Ham will face the Italian champions
at the Olympic Stadium on 7 August in their first major fixture at the new
stadium.
However news that Band 1 season ticket holders will be asked to pay £40 to
attend - and 1966 Club season ticket holders a whacking £50 each - has not
gone down well with fans who have purchased season tickets in the more
expensive areas of the ground.
Speaking on the KUMB Forum, Dwightster was one of many who failed to
understand why the club will be charging Band One season ticket holders more
than twice as much as Band Four members. "It should be £20 across the
board," he said, "as they did for the FA Cup and Europa League Qualification
matches."
Brentford Hammer, a Band One season ticket holder said he would be
boycotting the game as a result of the pricing structure. "£50 is too steep
for a friendly," he said. "As others are saying, it should be £20 across the
board. I'm not paying £50; I will wait to see if we have a Euro qualifier
with hopefully more sensible pricing."
And Hockley Hammer suggested that the club's marketing policy should be
reviewed, given the cheaper prices for recent FA Cup tickets.
"I have to pay £35 to watch a pre-season friendly in the new stadium a few
weeks after I paid £30 to watch an FA Cup quarter final," he said. "So much
for the affordable football quotes coming from the board.
"I've spent a fortune on this club and put up with all the hype of the new
stadium, which I was quite happy about. I know its a pre-season friendly,
but I expected a bit more from the board."
Giantsteps was another season ticket holder disappointed by the news. "I've
just logged on to that eticketing site; 30 sheets for my seat. Why did they
not just make this a universal price for all seating bands? It's only a
friendly, after all.
"A sign of things to come, no doubt."
However not everyone was disappointed - KUMB member Barry Green, for one, is
a happy Hammer. "I'm looking forward to it," he said. "I got on and off the
site in minutes and sorted my ticket. I've never seen any European teams
apart from our few at the start of this season, and they can't really be
compared."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers interested in Iorfa?
April 25, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
BKHammer
According to the Sun, Crystal Palace are looking to sign the 20-year-old
from Wolves for £3m this summer. But sources have told Africafootball.com:
"Several other Premier League clubs including Southampton and West Ham are
equally interested in Iorfa. "The player has great potential and of recent
he has shown great versatility by also playing as a central defender, away
from his familiar rightback role." The England U21 has made more than 60
appearances in the Championship and League One. Iorfa signed a new
long-term deal last November to keep him at Wolves, but evidently some clubs
believe that he could be prised away from the Midlands for the right offer.
Iorfa is one of several players that West Ham are looking to add ahead of
their move to the Olympic Stadium next season. Slaven Bilic's side are also
being linked with Celta Vigo attacker Nolito and Borussia Monchengladbach's
defensive midfielder Havard Nordtveit although our own ExWHUEmployee has
already confirmed that the deal for Nordtveit has already been completed and
will be announced by the club at the end of the season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United to play Juventus at Olympic Stadium
By Paul Gilmour at the Olympic Stadium
Last Updated: 25/04/16 9:44am
SSN
West Ham's first opponents at the Olympic Stadium will be Italian champions
Juventus. The multiple Serie A winners will officially mark the club's move
with a friendly on August 7.
Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ pitch side at their new home, West Ham
midfielder Mark Noble said: "It's amazing. Juventus is a club full of
history and I think it suits the stadium that our first game here will be
against them. "I am pretty sure the fans will be excited now. I know we are
for sure. To get in here and play the first game on what will be an amazing
pitch in front of a full house will be really exciting. On Sunday,
Juventus edged closer to retaining the title as goals from Mario Mandzukic
and Alvaro Moratta gave them a 2-1 victory at Fiorentina. They will secure
the league if Napoli drop points away to Roma on Monday evening. Hammers'
former Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna, who won two league titles in Turin,
said: "I am really excited for the game. This is a positive time for the
club, we are doing really well and this is an amazing stadium"
West Ham have two competitive games remaining at the Boleyn Ground, their
home of 112 years. The first is against Swansea May 7, before hosting
Manchester United three days later. The east London club lie sixth, eight
points away from the Champions League positions with four matches remaining,
including a game in hand on Manchester City and Arsenal. Behind them,
Liverpool and Southampton are closing in with Jurgen Klopp's side a point
behind and Southampton two points back. But Noble insists they are looking
no further than their next game as they bid to mark their move to Stratford
with European football next season. "We have West Brom away coming up and
with Tony Pulis in charge we know they will be hard to beat," he said. "But
we have put ourselves in a position to go and enjoy games and we just need
to keep putting points on the table and see where that takes us. "We've had
a fantastic season, but we have four games to go and if we can pick up
points in those I am pretty sure we'll finish in the European spots."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Striker deal could be a real 'snip'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham's latest signing Toni Martinez could turn out to be a real snip for
the club.
The teenager signed from Valencia earlier in the month netting more than 100
times over the past four seasons.
The 18 year old was also part of the Spain U19 squad which won the 2015 UEFA
European Championship title but for all that the Hammers have struck a deal
which could see them come out well on top on performance and financial
terms.
ClaretandHugh was told this afternoon that the deal is structured to the
youngster's progress and that should he eventually break into the first team
the club will pay no more than 1 million euros.
We were told: "He's a good player and it's very worthwhile taking a punt on
these promising youngsters on these sort of deals as it is there's little to
lose and they can turn out to be very worthwhile.
On joining Martnez said: "For me, it's a great opportunity to be here and I
hope to make the most of being at such a big club," said Martinez, who will
celebrate his 19th birthday in June.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Meet West Ham's new billionaire owner
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham co-owner and joint chairman, David Sullivan is now a billionaire
according to the 2016 Sunday Times rich list. Mr Sullivan crossed the £1bn
mark after his wealth grew by more than £150m in the last year. The Times
has calculated Sullivan's 51 per cent stake is now worth a cool £400million
valuing the club at over £800m. Away from football Sullivan runs three
companies – Conegate Ltd, Roldvale Trading Ltd & Gc Co No. 102 Ltd according
to the latest Sunday Times Rich List – with net assets of £414m plus a
property portfolio worth in the region of £300m. His property company called
Conegate, owns property in London including Russell & Bromley's flagship
shopbuildings in Oxford Street near to Bond Street tube station. The 67 year
old other investments include race horses, premium phones lines and
publishing, including the Sunday Sport which he reacquired for £50,000 in
2011. In the 2015 Sunday Times Rich list the he was credited with an £815m
fortune. In 2013 fellow co-owner, David Gold's wealth was estimated at
around £350m but the latest news would mean Gold's 35.1% stake in West Ham
has increased to around £280m on top of his business empire which includes
Ann Summers which has revenues of over £100m per year.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Give it a rest Sam
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 25, 2016 in News
C and H
Former boss can't help himself by suggesting Sunderland is a bigger club
than West Ham in his latest dig at the Hammers. Big Sam told the Telegraph
"Retirement isn't on the horizon, I don't think so, there is a lot to be
talked about at the end of the season, but I've got a lot more to give. I've
got no regrets about taking this job." "I contemplated retirement. I rotated
as a pundit at the start of the season, I didn't think a job I wanted would
come up as soon as it did. It caught me by surprise. I couldn't say no to
Sunderland. I was here as a player, I worked as a coach under Peter Reid and
coming back here as a manager was not something I could turn down." "I do
have an emotional bond. It's a huge club. It's a bigger club than West Ham,
or at least it is prior to West Ham's move into the Olympic Stadium." "I
could have had longer off, but I knew what this club is; I knew about the
facilities, the stadium, it's a big, big club. This is a relatively deprived
region in terms of wages, but it's vibrant and there is a passionate love of
football up here. That was very important for me.I think the thing that
makes it unique up here is the percentage of people who live in Sunderland
who come to support their team every week," he explained. "It far outweighs
other towns and cities across the country."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers map out defender's future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
West Ham have no plans to recall Reece Burke from loan duty next season and
are hoping that the likely Bradford City Player of the Year will remain at
Bradford City as a Championship performer. Reece is the overwhelming
favourite to become the League One team's player of the year but with
Winston Reid, Angelo Ogbonna, James Tomkins and James Collins in front of
him, and Reece Oxford still on the squad fringes, Burke will need to wait
his turn. That is likely to come at the start of the 2017/18 season when
James Collins comes to the end of a new contract. The Hammers hope Burke can
get a season at Championship level and want City to cement their place in
the play off places over the next two games and go on to snatch a place at
the higher level. A well placed insider told ClaretandHugh: "Like everybody
else we have heard and seen the reports and Reece has had an astonishingly
good season up there. "We are delighted with the progress he has made and
ideally would like him to stay there as a Championship player because he's
clearly loved to bits by the fans and playing at a club where he is such a
favourite can only help his confidence."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Paul Pogba and his Juventus team-mates set to be West Ham's first opponents
at Olympic Stadium after opening ceremony
West Ham will face Juventus at the Olympic Stadium on August 7
Teams will compete for the Betway Cup after an opening ceremony
Match takes place one week before Premier League season opener
The Hammers will move to the 60,000 seat stadium from Upton Park
Stars such as Paul Pogba and Gianluigi Buffon could be on display
By RORY BRIGSTOCK-BARRON FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:05, 25 April 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 25 April 2016
West Ham's chances of bringing Champions League football to the Olympic
Stadium next season may be all but extinguished but their new stomping
ground is still set to be christened by one of Europe's elite. The Hammers
have announced that they will take on Juventus for the Betway Cup on August
7, following an opening ceremony at the 60,000-seater stadium. West Ham move
from Upton Park to their new home in Stratford next season and will host the
likely Serie A champions a week before the Premier League campaign.
Joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold told the club website: 'We are
delighted to be marking such a monumental day in West Ham United's history
by welcoming one of the world's biggest clubs to our fantastic new home. 'It
was always our intention to open the new 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park with a fixture fitting of the occasion, and the visit
of the reigning Italian champions Juventus is most certainly that. 'We are
hugely excited and honoured by this wonderful opening fixture against a
historic club which shares many of the values we cherish here at West Ham.
'There has been an enormous amount of work done over the past few years to
ready the stadium for our first game and we cannot wait to show our fans and
the wider football world how incredible it will look. 'This will be a game
you'll want to tell your grandkids you were at. Sunday, August 7 just can't
come soon enough!' Barring summer transfers, Hammers fans should see the
likes of Paul Pogba, Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini grace the pitch
at their new home - which was the centre-piece of the 2012 Olympic Games in
London. The game takes place the day after the traditional curtain raiser of
the Premier League season, the Community Shield.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to welcome Juventus in their first game at Olympic Stadium
• Serie A leaders will come to Stratford week before Premier League begins
• 'This will be a game to tell your grandkids you were at' club chairmen say
The Guardian
Monday 25 April 2016 09.47 BST Last modified on Monday 25 April 2016 10.43
BST
West Ham's first game in the Olympic Stadium will be a friendly against
Serie A leaders Juventus. The Hammers move from Upton Park to their new home
in Stratford next season and will host Juve a week before the campaign
starts, on Sunday, 7 August. The joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David
Gold told the club website: "We are delighted to be marking such a
monumental day in West Ham United's history by welcoming one of the world's
biggest clubs to our fantastic new home. "It was always our intention to
open the new 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park with a
fixture fitting of the occasion, and the visit of the reigning Italian
champions Juventus is most certainly that. "We are hugely excited and
honoured by this wonderful opening fixture against a historic club which
shares many of the values we cherish here at West Ham. "There has been an
enormous amount of work done over the past few years to ready the stadium
for our first game and we cannot wait to show our fans and the wider
football world how incredible it will look. "This will be a game you'll want
to tell your grandkids you were at. Sunday, August 7 just can't come soon
enough!"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Slaven Bilic has paid tribute to the hard work carried out by his backroom
staff to provide him with a fit and strong squad for the run-in. The West
Ham United manager had a full selection to pick from for Wednesday's 3-1
Barclays Premier League win over Watford. With four games to go and a
top-six finish to fight for, Bilic has publicly thanked his staff for their
commitment to the cause – particularly during a tough Christmas period, when
a number of concurrent injuries and suspensions left the Hammers' resources
stretched. At certain times, West Ham were without playmakers Dimitri Payet
and Manuel Lanzini, strikers Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho and defenders
James Collins and James Tomkins and loanee Carl Jenkinson. However, the
Hammers battled through those absences to remain unbeaten from 29 November
until 16 January. In all, West Ham have lost just nine of 47 matches in all
competitions under the Croatian.
With the coaching staff, fitness coach Miljenko Rak, head of medical and
sports science Stijn Vandenbroucke and their backroom colleagues working
hard to keep players fit and well, Bilic is now reaping the benefit of their
planning and methods. "Credit goes to the Medical team, the Sports Science
team and the Fitness team and to the whole staff, of course," said the
manager, whose side sit sixth in the table ahead of Saturday's trip to West
Bromwich Albion. "There was only one period in late October, November and
December – a long one – but there was only one game against Liverpool when
we were really restricted and very thin. "The guys from the Medical, Sports
Science and all that didn't stop and we didn't lose our heads and now and
over the last five or six games we are really in great shape and can cater
for all eventualities. "It's great for us, so I would like to say a big
'Thanks' to them because they have done a great job."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus to open new Stadium
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted and honoured to announce that Juventus will
provide the opposition for the historic opening fixture at the Club's new
home. The Hammers will welcome the Italian giants to the Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park on Sunday 7 August 2016 at 1pm, as the two sides
compete for the Betway Cup. Put simply, the Old Lady are one of the world's
biggest and most-successful clubs, with two UEFA Champions League trophies,
three UEFA Cups and more Serie A titles to their name than any other club.
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said the visit of the Italian
club to east London would be a fitting start to life at the Club's wonderful
60,000-capacity arena. "We are delighted to be marking such a monumental day
in West Ham United's history by welcoming one of the world's biggest clubs
to our fantastic new home," they said, in a joint-statement. "It was always
our intention to open the new 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park with a fixture fitting of the occasion, and the visit of the
reigning Italian champions Juventus is most certainly that.
"We are hugely excited and honoured by this wonderful opening fixture
against a historic club which shares many of the values we cherish here at
West Ham. "There has been an enormous amount of work done over the past few
years to ready the stadium for our first game and we cannot wait to show our
fans and the wider football world how incredible it will look. "This will be
a game you'll want to tell your grandkids you were at. Sunday 7 August just
can't come soon enough!"
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic added: "It will be a privilege to face
one of the biggest clubs in the world in our opening game at the new
Stadium. Like us, they are a club steeped in tradition, so it is fitting
that together we will create history with this match. "We hope this will be
the first of many games against Europe's top sides at our new home as we
begin the journey of turning West Ham United into a team capable of
competing with the best teams from across the continent. I know my staff and
players are very excited about what next season has in store."
West Ham and Juventus have never met previously, either in European
competition or in friendly action. However, there are some notable links
between the two historic clubs, with the impressive trio of Paolo Di Canio,
Liam Brady and current star Angelo Ogbonna having worn the colours of both.
Ogbonna himself is looking forward to welcoming many of his former teammates
to east London for the Betway Cup battle. "When I was told we were opening
the new Stadium with a match against Juventus, I could only smile, because
it is the perfect match for the occasion" said the Hammers centre-half. "I
spent two years with Juventus and they are without doubt one of the biggest
clubs in the world – I was honoured to wear the black and white shirt.
"Now, I am honoured to wear the Claret and Blue of West Ham United and I am
looking forward to taking to the pitch in front of 60,000 fans to face my
old team."
In 1973, Bobby Moore made his 108th and final England appearance against an
Italy side that included Juventus quartet Dino Zoff, Luciano Spinosi, Franco
Causio and Fabio Capello. Fast forward to the present day and Juventus are
unquestionably the biggest and best club in Italian football – and one of
the biggest and best in Europe. Formed in 1897, Juve have won the Serie A
title in each of the last four seasons and are on course to lift the trophy
for a fifth consecutive year in May. Managed by Massimiliano Allegri, La
Vecchia Signora possess a star-studded squad that includes self-confessed
West Ham fan and legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and fellow Italy
internationals Giorgio Chiellini, Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Barzagli and
Leonardo Bonucci. Alongside them, Allegri has a battery of top players,
including Dimitri Payet's France teammate Paul Pogba, Switzerland wing-back
Stephan Lichtsteiner, Germany midfielder Sami Khedira and a man Slaven Bilic
knows well, Croatia centre forward Mario Mandzukic.
Tickets for the Betway Cup will be available from just £20 for Adults and
£10 for Children and will go on sale to 2016/17 Season Ticket Holders at
12noon on Monday 25 April 2016 at eticketing.co.uk/whufc or via 0871 529
1966 (option 4). Season Ticket Holders will have until 9am Monday 9 May to
book their seat. After that tickets will be available to 2015/16 Academy
Members and supporters on the Priority List.
Please note any Season Ticket Holder wishing to purchase online must
activate their account at eticketing.co.uk/whufc before purchasing their
ticket.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley - It's still all to play for
WHUFC.com
Speaking after the Development Squad's 1-0 victory in the first leg of the
Barclays U21 Premier League final, Terry Westley said he was delighted to
have overcome a stubborn Hull City. The visiting Tigers proved formidable
opponents, solid in defence while a threat on the counter as it took the
Hammers until the 90th minute to break their opponents down as substitute
Djair Parfitt-Williams pounced on Doneil Henry's header. In what was the
last U21 match ever at the Boleyn Ground, in front of an impressive audience
of more than 10,000 Hammers, Westley reflected: "It was a tough game, like
any cup final would be. We didn't expect them to roll over for us, and I
thought Hull were very good. "I think there was a little bit of nerves,
due to the youthfulness of our players we have to except that, five of our
players tonight can still play for the youth team. "We weren't quite as good
as we have been for the majority of the season, and for that reason, taking
a 1-0 lead into the second leg, I'll take that."
Goalscorer Parfitt-Williams, who has now netted four times in the claret and
blues' cup campaign made an instant impact since returning from injury.
Westley continued: "I'm delighted for Djair because he has worked so hard to
become available for this game. He knocked on the door about a week ago and
said I think I can play. But he hasn't played for two and half months so we
had to start him on the bench, so credit to him and all the staff who have
helped him get back to quickly. "The goal will be great for his confidence
and we are delighted to have him back."
In little more than a week, the Hammers make the journey north for the
return leg and Westley and his players are under no illusions of how
difficult the task in hand will be. He explained: "It's a tough game now; we
know what we're in for. That goal has obviously given the tie a completely
different dynamic because they will have to come at us at some point. "So
that might open it up for us, but it'll be tough, it's all to play for."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll and Slaven Bilic: West Ham duo avoid Football Association
action
BBC.co.uk
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and striker Andy Carroll will not be charged by
the Football Association over their comments about referee Jon Moss.
Bilic has been "reminded of his responsibilities" and Carroll "warned as to
his future conduct" after the duo criticised Moss following the 2-2 draw
with Leicester City on 17 April. Carroll said Moss tried to "even things up"
with the award of a late penalty. Bilic suggested the referee had been
"influenced" by the home crowd. Moss sent off Leicester striker Jamie Vardy
for diving when his side led 1-0, before awarding West Ham a controversial
penalty, which Carroll converted to equalise. The visitors then took the
lead, before Moss gave Leicester an injury-time penalty for Carroll's nudge
on Jeffrey Schlupp, which substitute Leonardo Ulloa converted to rescue a
point. "People say he shouldn't be influenced [by the crowd], but this is
real life," Bilic told Match of the Day after the game.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No FA sanction for Carroll or Bilic
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 25th April 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's Slaven Bilic and Andy Carroll have escaped a potential
fine or ban by the Football Asociation after it was decided neither had a
case to answer.
The FA wrote to both individuals following the recent 2-2 draw with
Leicester City at the King Power Stadium asking them to explain comments
both made about official Jonathan Moss.
However it was confirmed this evening (Monday) that neither would face any
sanctions as a result - although, according to the BBC, Bilic was "reminded
of his responsibilities" and Carroll "warned as to his future conduct" by
the game's ruling body.
Carroll, who was adjudged to have failed Leicester substitute Leonardo Ulloa
in the closing stages of the game called Moss' decision to award a spot kick
against him "a poor decision".
"I think he's trying to even it up and I think a lot of people have said
that," retorted Carroll. "It's not acceptable, week-in, week-out we've had
bad decisions.
"Four decisions went against us. When we had our penalty, Wes Morgan said:
'he doesn't know what he's doing, he's been bad all game.' It's happening
every week and it's unacceptable."
Bilic, speaking immediately after the game told the press: "If you watch a
replay of our penalty you see the pulling and all that. If you watch their
penalty you will see a dive."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Monday Musings: A week of reflection
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th April 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
With the FA Cup semi finals in full swing, Slaven Bilic and his West Ham
United squad were afforded a rare weekend off.
Although the manager and his players would no doubt have preferred to be in
action on Saturday afternoon against Everton at Wembley, the recent quarter
final replay defeat at the hands of Manchester United put paid to the
Hammers' chances of going any further in the competition.
Of course, by rights West Ham should have been in the semi final without the
need for a replay, but referee Martin Atkinson somehow failed to spot
Bastian Schweinsteiger's blatant shove on goalkeeper Darren Randolph
milliseconds before Anthony Martial's late, late equaliser at Old Trafford
in the first meeting.
And that's been the story for West Ham in recent weeks, where a sting of
mystifying decisions have essentially killed off any lingering hopes the
Hammers may have harboured of qualifying for the Champions League for the
first time in their history.
Whilst those may be bitter blows for Bilic, the popular Croat should take
solace from a string of outstanding achievements so far season, his first as
a manager in the Premier League.
Last weekend's 3-1 win against Watford extended West Ham's unbeaten run at
home to 15 Premier League games, a top flight record for United. And with
just four games of the season left to play the Hammers have 56 points with a
positive (+14) goal difference.
That in itself may appear to be relatively unremarkable, but West Ham's
record points tally in a 38-game campaign is 57, achieved on Harry
Redknapp's watch nearly 20 years ago, meaning the current squad merely need
one more point to match it.
And as incredible as it may seem, you have to go back to 1985/86 and the
much-vaunted 'Boys of '86' to find West Ham last finishing a season in the
top flight with a positive goal difference, which barring a total collapse
will be emulated in a few weeks' time.
Bilic has already started making plans for the 2016/17 campaign, which will
commence in August at the Olympic Stadium (which will be known as something
quite different by then due to naming rights).
And it's to youth that he's currently turned, with the capture of
highly-rated striker Toni Martinez (19) from Valencia and, so it seems,
Portuguese midfielder Domingos Quina - still only 16 - from Chelsea's
Academy.
KUMB.com exclusively revealed last month that Bilic has already moved to
sign 25-year-old Norwegian defensive midfielder Havard Nordtveit from German
Bundesliga side BMG; he'll replace Alex Song who is returning to Barca.
So whilst this season may not be ending quite as we'd hoped, there's still
plenty of reasons to be cheerful for Bilic, his squad and us fans as the
curtain begins to close on a campaign that began way back in July against
Andorran minnows Lusitanos in the Europa League qualifying rounds.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
£50 for a friendly? What happened to affordable football?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th April 2016
By: Staff Writer
A number of West Ham supporters have reacted angrily to news that some will
be asked to pay up to £50 to watch the team tackle Juventus in a pre-season
friendly this August.
It was confirmed this morning that West Ham will face the Italian champions
at the Olympic Stadium on 7 August in their first major fixture at the new
stadium.
However news that Band 1 season ticket holders will be asked to pay £40 to
attend - and 1966 Club season ticket holders a whacking £50 each - has not
gone down well with fans who have purchased season tickets in the more
expensive areas of the ground.
Speaking on the KUMB Forum, Dwightster was one of many who failed to
understand why the club will be charging Band One season ticket holders more
than twice as much as Band Four members. "It should be £20 across the
board," he said, "as they did for the FA Cup and Europa League Qualification
matches."
Brentford Hammer, a Band One season ticket holder said he would be
boycotting the game as a result of the pricing structure. "£50 is too steep
for a friendly," he said. "As others are saying, it should be £20 across the
board. I'm not paying £50; I will wait to see if we have a Euro qualifier
with hopefully more sensible pricing."
And Hockley Hammer suggested that the club's marketing policy should be
reviewed, given the cheaper prices for recent FA Cup tickets.
"I have to pay £35 to watch a pre-season friendly in the new stadium a few
weeks after I paid £30 to watch an FA Cup quarter final," he said. "So much
for the affordable football quotes coming from the board.
"I've spent a fortune on this club and put up with all the hype of the new
stadium, which I was quite happy about. I know its a pre-season friendly,
but I expected a bit more from the board."
Giantsteps was another season ticket holder disappointed by the news. "I've
just logged on to that eticketing site; 30 sheets for my seat. Why did they
not just make this a universal price for all seating bands? It's only a
friendly, after all.
"A sign of things to come, no doubt."
However not everyone was disappointed - KUMB member Barry Green, for one, is
a happy Hammer. "I'm looking forward to it," he said. "I got on and off the
site in minutes and sorted my ticket. I've never seen any European teams
apart from our few at the start of this season, and they can't really be
compared."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers interested in Iorfa?
April 25, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
BKHammer
According to the Sun, Crystal Palace are looking to sign the 20-year-old
from Wolves for £3m this summer. But sources have told Africafootball.com:
"Several other Premier League clubs including Southampton and West Ham are
equally interested in Iorfa. "The player has great potential and of recent
he has shown great versatility by also playing as a central defender, away
from his familiar rightback role." The England U21 has made more than 60
appearances in the Championship and League One. Iorfa signed a new
long-term deal last November to keep him at Wolves, but evidently some clubs
believe that he could be prised away from the Midlands for the right offer.
Iorfa is one of several players that West Ham are looking to add ahead of
their move to the Olympic Stadium next season. Slaven Bilic's side are also
being linked with Celta Vigo attacker Nolito and Borussia Monchengladbach's
defensive midfielder Havard Nordtveit although our own ExWHUEmployee has
already confirmed that the deal for Nordtveit has already been completed and
will be announced by the club at the end of the season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United to play Juventus at Olympic Stadium
By Paul Gilmour at the Olympic Stadium
Last Updated: 25/04/16 9:44am
SSN
West Ham's first opponents at the Olympic Stadium will be Italian champions
Juventus. The multiple Serie A winners will officially mark the club's move
with a friendly on August 7.
Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ pitch side at their new home, West Ham
midfielder Mark Noble said: "It's amazing. Juventus is a club full of
history and I think it suits the stadium that our first game here will be
against them. "I am pretty sure the fans will be excited now. I know we are
for sure. To get in here and play the first game on what will be an amazing
pitch in front of a full house will be really exciting. On Sunday,
Juventus edged closer to retaining the title as goals from Mario Mandzukic
and Alvaro Moratta gave them a 2-1 victory at Fiorentina. They will secure
the league if Napoli drop points away to Roma on Monday evening. Hammers'
former Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna, who won two league titles in Turin,
said: "I am really excited for the game. This is a positive time for the
club, we are doing really well and this is an amazing stadium"
West Ham have two competitive games remaining at the Boleyn Ground, their
home of 112 years. The first is against Swansea May 7, before hosting
Manchester United three days later. The east London club lie sixth, eight
points away from the Champions League positions with four matches remaining,
including a game in hand on Manchester City and Arsenal. Behind them,
Liverpool and Southampton are closing in with Jurgen Klopp's side a point
behind and Southampton two points back. But Noble insists they are looking
no further than their next game as they bid to mark their move to Stratford
with European football next season. "We have West Brom away coming up and
with Tony Pulis in charge we know they will be hard to beat," he said. "But
we have put ourselves in a position to go and enjoy games and we just need
to keep putting points on the table and see where that takes us. "We've had
a fantastic season, but we have four games to go and if we can pick up
points in those I am pretty sure we'll finish in the European spots."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Striker deal could be a real 'snip'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham's latest signing Toni Martinez could turn out to be a real snip for
the club.
The teenager signed from Valencia earlier in the month netting more than 100
times over the past four seasons.
The 18 year old was also part of the Spain U19 squad which won the 2015 UEFA
European Championship title but for all that the Hammers have struck a deal
which could see them come out well on top on performance and financial
terms.
ClaretandHugh was told this afternoon that the deal is structured to the
youngster's progress and that should he eventually break into the first team
the club will pay no more than 1 million euros.
We were told: "He's a good player and it's very worthwhile taking a punt on
these promising youngsters on these sort of deals as it is there's little to
lose and they can turn out to be very worthwhile.
On joining Martnez said: "For me, it's a great opportunity to be here and I
hope to make the most of being at such a big club," said Martinez, who will
celebrate his 19th birthday in June.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Meet West Ham's new billionaire owner
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham co-owner and joint chairman, David Sullivan is now a billionaire
according to the 2016 Sunday Times rich list. Mr Sullivan crossed the £1bn
mark after his wealth grew by more than £150m in the last year. The Times
has calculated Sullivan's 51 per cent stake is now worth a cool £400million
valuing the club at over £800m. Away from football Sullivan runs three
companies – Conegate Ltd, Roldvale Trading Ltd & Gc Co No. 102 Ltd according
to the latest Sunday Times Rich List – with net assets of £414m plus a
property portfolio worth in the region of £300m. His property company called
Conegate, owns property in London including Russell & Bromley's flagship
shopbuildings in Oxford Street near to Bond Street tube station. The 67 year
old other investments include race horses, premium phones lines and
publishing, including the Sunday Sport which he reacquired for £50,000 in
2011. In the 2015 Sunday Times Rich list the he was credited with an £815m
fortune. In 2013 fellow co-owner, David Gold's wealth was estimated at
around £350m but the latest news would mean Gold's 35.1% stake in West Ham
has increased to around £280m on top of his business empire which includes
Ann Summers which has revenues of over £100m per year.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Give it a rest Sam
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 25, 2016 in News
C and H
Former boss can't help himself by suggesting Sunderland is a bigger club
than West Ham in his latest dig at the Hammers. Big Sam told the Telegraph
"Retirement isn't on the horizon, I don't think so, there is a lot to be
talked about at the end of the season, but I've got a lot more to give. I've
got no regrets about taking this job." "I contemplated retirement. I rotated
as a pundit at the start of the season, I didn't think a job I wanted would
come up as soon as it did. It caught me by surprise. I couldn't say no to
Sunderland. I was here as a player, I worked as a coach under Peter Reid and
coming back here as a manager was not something I could turn down." "I do
have an emotional bond. It's a huge club. It's a bigger club than West Ham,
or at least it is prior to West Ham's move into the Olympic Stadium." "I
could have had longer off, but I knew what this club is; I knew about the
facilities, the stadium, it's a big, big club. This is a relatively deprived
region in terms of wages, but it's vibrant and there is a passionate love of
football up here. That was very important for me.I think the thing that
makes it unique up here is the percentage of people who live in Sunderland
who come to support their team every week," he explained. "It far outweighs
other towns and cities across the country."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers map out defender's future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
West Ham have no plans to recall Reece Burke from loan duty next season and
are hoping that the likely Bradford City Player of the Year will remain at
Bradford City as a Championship performer. Reece is the overwhelming
favourite to become the League One team's player of the year but with
Winston Reid, Angelo Ogbonna, James Tomkins and James Collins in front of
him, and Reece Oxford still on the squad fringes, Burke will need to wait
his turn. That is likely to come at the start of the 2017/18 season when
James Collins comes to the end of a new contract. The Hammers hope Burke can
get a season at Championship level and want City to cement their place in
the play off places over the next two games and go on to snatch a place at
the higher level. A well placed insider told ClaretandHugh: "Like everybody
else we have heard and seen the reports and Reece has had an astonishingly
good season up there. "We are delighted with the progress he has made and
ideally would like him to stay there as a Championship player because he's
clearly loved to bits by the fans and playing at a club where he is such a
favourite can only help his confidence."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Paul Pogba and his Juventus team-mates set to be West Ham's first opponents
at Olympic Stadium after opening ceremony
West Ham will face Juventus at the Olympic Stadium on August 7
Teams will compete for the Betway Cup after an opening ceremony
Match takes place one week before Premier League season opener
The Hammers will move to the 60,000 seat stadium from Upton Park
Stars such as Paul Pogba and Gianluigi Buffon could be on display
By RORY BRIGSTOCK-BARRON FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:05, 25 April 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 25 April 2016
West Ham's chances of bringing Champions League football to the Olympic
Stadium next season may be all but extinguished but their new stomping
ground is still set to be christened by one of Europe's elite. The Hammers
have announced that they will take on Juventus for the Betway Cup on August
7, following an opening ceremony at the 60,000-seater stadium. West Ham move
from Upton Park to their new home in Stratford next season and will host the
likely Serie A champions a week before the Premier League campaign.
Joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold told the club website: 'We are
delighted to be marking such a monumental day in West Ham United's history
by welcoming one of the world's biggest clubs to our fantastic new home. 'It
was always our intention to open the new 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park with a fixture fitting of the occasion, and the visit
of the reigning Italian champions Juventus is most certainly that. 'We are
hugely excited and honoured by this wonderful opening fixture against a
historic club which shares many of the values we cherish here at West Ham.
'There has been an enormous amount of work done over the past few years to
ready the stadium for our first game and we cannot wait to show our fans and
the wider football world how incredible it will look. 'This will be a game
you'll want to tell your grandkids you were at. Sunday, August 7 just can't
come soon enough!' Barring summer transfers, Hammers fans should see the
likes of Paul Pogba, Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini grace the pitch
at their new home - which was the centre-piece of the 2012 Olympic Games in
London. The game takes place the day after the traditional curtain raiser of
the Premier League season, the Community Shield.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to welcome Juventus in their first game at Olympic Stadium
• Serie A leaders will come to Stratford week before Premier League begins
• 'This will be a game to tell your grandkids you were at' club chairmen say
The Guardian
Monday 25 April 2016 09.47 BST Last modified on Monday 25 April 2016 10.43
BST
West Ham's first game in the Olympic Stadium will be a friendly against
Serie A leaders Juventus. The Hammers move from Upton Park to their new home
in Stratford next season and will host Juve a week before the campaign
starts, on Sunday, 7 August. The joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David
Gold told the club website: "We are delighted to be marking such a
monumental day in West Ham United's history by welcoming one of the world's
biggest clubs to our fantastic new home. "It was always our intention to
open the new 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park with a
fixture fitting of the occasion, and the visit of the reigning Italian
champions Juventus is most certainly that. "We are hugely excited and
honoured by this wonderful opening fixture against a historic club which
shares many of the values we cherish here at West Ham. "There has been an
enormous amount of work done over the past few years to ready the stadium
for our first game and we cannot wait to show our fans and the wider
football world how incredible it will look. "This will be a game you'll want
to tell your grandkids you were at. Sunday, August 7 just can't come soon
enough!"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
