Dimi's France fall at the final hurdle
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet and France suffered Euro 2016 final heartbreak as Portugal ruined their Stade de France party in extra-time on Sunday.
Having won major tournaments on home turf in 1984 and 1998, France were bidding for a hat-trick of successes but were undone by a long-range strike from Portugal sub Eder in the second period of extra-time.
Payet, undoubtedly one of the star performers of the tournament, played 58 minutes before France boss Didier Deschamps opted to bring Kingsley Coman on in his place.
Neither Coman, nor his teammates, were able to force a breakthrough, although Pierre-Andre Gignac could not have come any closer than in added time at the end of the 90 when he struck the post.
Eder landed the decisive blow, allowing Cristiano Ronaldo, who departed the action in the first half injured, to lift the trophy.
Payet ends the tournament with three goals from his seven games, having left an indelible mark on the competition with his enterprising play for the hosts.
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From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFc.com
I am delighted that we were able to secure the long-term contracts of Michail Antonio and Aaron Cresswell and getting our best young players to pledge their long-term futures to the Club.
They are both proven at the highest level and could be England players in the near future.
I remember the Antonio deal very well and what a signing he has proved to be for us.
He worked so hard when he first arrived and had to be patient for his breakthrough into the team.
But when his chance came against Manchester United he took it and has never looked back.
I thought to myself we have got a player on our hands and he will be with us for many years to come.
I remember saying to him that his time would come and to score the winning goal against Tottenham will endear him to the fans forever!
We all remember his goal celebrations and that shows the character he has. We hope to see many more celebrations whether it be as a winger or an attacking right back.
He is always a threat and is capable of scoring the winning goal. Slaven has said to me that he is one of the best right backs in the country as he gives you that extra scoring option.
There are not many full-backs in the Premier League who can score the goals that Michail is capable of and that makes him an exceptional player.
I am sure a lot of clubs would love to have that option of seeing a full-back score the goals that Michail produced last season and it adds a new dimension to any team.
Aaron has also shown why he is rated one of the best young left backs in the top flight.
He has the qualities to play for England and it is easy to see why people are talking about him breaking into the squad.
He can score a great goal and is a great provider for our forward players. He showed that last season with some outstanding crosses which led to Andy Carroll getting on the scoresheet.
Andy must thrive when he sees Aaron deliver the ball into the box like that.
We are delighted that he has also secured his long-term future with the Club and we hope both players can enjoy a lot of success over that time.
I want to say a big thank-you to James Tomkins who left the Club to join Crystal Palace last week.
James spent nearly 20-years at West Ham United and is a classic story of a player joining the Club at a young age and going through the Academy to become a first-team player at the highest level.
He has been a great servant to West Ham and I am sure he will become a big favourite at Crystal Palace. He wants to be a first-team player and play every week.
Unfortunately he has not had for that a while and wanted a new challenge. I pay tribute to him and want to wish him the best of luck for the future.
I know the fans are keen to know which new players will be arriving at the Club this summer.
There is definitely a new signing who will be announced in the near future and I know there is one more who we will hopefully get over the line.
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Adrian - We have an exciting new season
WHUFc.com
Adrian can barely contain his excitement ahead of West Ham United's first season in the 60,000-capacity London Stadium.
The Spanish goalkeeper missed the final few fixtures of the Farewell Boleyn campaign through injury, but has returned for his fourth pre-season with the Club fit and ready to play his part in 2016/17.
The popular stopper has been working hard with goalkeeper coach Chris Woods and Swiss youngster Raphael Spiegel – Darren Randolph is on holiday after his Euro 2016 heroics with Ireland – and is set to play his second match of the pre-season when West Ham tackle the Carolina RailHawks on Tuesday evening.
"I feel so proud to be one of the more experienced players in the dressing room," he told West Ham TV. "This is now my fourth pre-season with West Ham United and I feel like an experienced player and I've been trying to help the new signings and to start working for the new exciting season.
"Of course we have a lot to look forward to. It was so hard to finish last season with a small injury because I like to play all the games, but it was a magnificent end to our history at Upton Park. Now we have an exciting new season in the London Stadium and everybody is waiting for the first game there."
Adrian has thoroughly enjoyed his time in the United States, including a week-long stay at the Seattle Seahawks' VMAC training complex, and a sightseeing visit that included the iconic Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
"It is a little bit different this pre-season because we have been to two cities," he continued. "I think we did well in Seattle, training in great facilities with the Seahawks with maximum power.
"We had a difficult result with the Sounders, but the most important thing is that the training was good for us and nobody got an injury and we are still getting fit."
The next few days will see the Hammers work in the hot and humid surroundings of North Carolina in conditions akin to Adrian's home city of Seville in southern Spain.
"It is difficult for me to say I am not adapted to this nice, hot climate because my last four seasons have been with West Ham, not in Seville, but it's similar to Spain!" he smiled. "We have to adapt to this climate to train and play our match on Tuesday."
In between training sessions, West Ham will take time out to watch Dimitri Payet play in the Euro 2016 final for France against Portugal on Sunday – and for Adrian, there can only be one winner.
"Of course we hope France get the Euro because everybody knows Dimi and we are happy for him also," he confirmed. "I think everybody who watched the last Premier League season knows Dimitri Payet and now the rest of the people know Dimi from the Euro.
"He is showing what a top player he is. He is a magnificent player and scored great goals and every time he has the ball at his feet, he is a problem for the other team."
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Hammers add Austria pre-season dates
WHUFC.com
Ahead of the upcoming 2016/17 season, the West Ham United first-team will travel to Austria for a pre-season training camp.
Currently enjoying a tour of the United States, the Hammers will play three friendlies against opposition from across Europe to help them prepare for what promises to be one of the most uniquely special seasons in the Club's history.
Up first, the Hammers face Czech First League side FC Slovacko on Tuesday 19 July, kick off 6pm in Rohrbach.
Hailing from the Uherské Hradiště region of the Czech Republic, FC Slovacko finished eighth last term and the Czech outfit will be doing all they can to prepare for a tough opening day fixture away at giants Sparta Prague.
The next day, Wednesday 20 July, the Hammers will then face Russian side Rubin Kazan, kick off 6pm in Krottendorf.
Having tasted success in 2012 by winning the Russian Cup, they finished 10th in the Russian Premier League.
Before attentions turn to the Europa League third qualifying round first leg on Thursday 28 July, the Hammers' final pre-season fixture of the tour is against Slaven Bilic's former side Karlsruher SC.
Prior to joining the Hammers in 1996, Bilic spent three years with the German outfit, captaining the side to the UEFA Cup semi-finals in his first season with the Club.
Based in southwest Germany, KSC, who are aiming for promotion, will be renewing their tensions with local rivals VfB Stuttgart following their relegation from the Bundesliga last term.
Kick off in Kapfenberg on Saturday 23 July is 5pm.
Ticket information will be available on whufc.com shortly.
As ever, extensive coverage of the Hammers' time in Austria will be available across whufc.com and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Austria pre-season fixtures:
19 July v FC Slovacko, 18.00, Rohrbach
20 July v Rubin Kazan, 18.00, Krottendorf
23 July v Karlsruher SC, 17.00, Kapfenberg
*All times Central European Time (CET)
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Besiktas star walks out, Hammers alerted
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 10th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham transfer target Jose Sosa is set to be fined by his club for failing to attend training. According to local reports, the 31-year-old Argentine striker is in dispute with Besiktas after he refused to attend the last two training sessions. And that, it is believed, is due to the experienced goalscorer trying to force a move away from Turkey where the player is said to be concerned by the terrorist threat which has led to a string of bombings in the country in recent months.
West Ham were linked with a €9million move for Sosa at the end of May but have gone cold on the deal since. Although the Hammers appear to have lost interest in the player their only competition for his signature at present appears to be Sosa's former club Estudientes, who he began his pro career with before moving to Bayern Munich in 2007. However with the asking price likely to be beyond the Primera Division's budget, that could leave the path open for West Ham were they to consider making an offer for the experienced striker.
* In other transfer news, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has refuted claims that Arsenal have made a concrete bid for Hammers transfer target Alexandre Lacazette - whilst insisting that he expects the playuer to remain at Lyon. "I saw Arsene during the France match and he has not told me," Aulas told L'Equipe. "It seems that Alex wants to stay with Lyon this season in the new stadium. He wants an adventure in the Champions League so I think he will stay with us. We are very happy."
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Cristiano Ronaldo's mum criticises Dimitri Payet for 'hurting' her son after Portugal captain is injured during Euro 2016 final
STANDARD SPORT 4 hours ago0 comments
Evening Standard
Cristiano Ronaldo's mother has appeared to criticise West Ham and France star Dimitri Payet following a strong challenge that resulted in the Portugal captain's Euro 2016 final being cut short by injury. Ronaldo was substituted after 25 minutes following a heavy challenge from West Ham and France star Dimitri Payet. The Real Madrid star received lengthy treatment on the pitch before departing for more medical attention, though found it impossible to carry on after struggling to get up to full speed on a counter-attack in the 23rd minute He tried to play on for two minutes, but had to leave the pitch in tears.
Tweeting after the incident his mother, Dolores, appeared to criticise the France and West Ham star.
"I cannot see my son in this way. The game is about kicking the ball, not hurting the opponent."
Payet was subsequently booed by the Portugal fans with almost every touch of the ball, before he was substituted by head coach Didier Deschamps in the second half.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, July 11
Sunday, July 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th July 2016
Diego's delight
WHUFC.com
A year ago Diego Poyet was West Ham United's penalty shootout hero in the UEFA Europa League victory over Maltese side Birkirkara. The stage appeared set for the young midfielder to establish himself during his second season with the Hammers but, for one reason or another, things did not quite go to plan. Poyet spent time on loan at MK Dons and first club Charlton Athletic, only for both clubs to endure difficult seasons which culminated in relegation from the Championship. For the 21-year-old, this was a new experience after a meteoric rise from the Addicks' reserve team to a Player of the Year accolade and a summer 2014 move to West Ham. Speaking to whufc.com, Poyet reflected on his stop-start 2015/16 campaign and expressed his desire to forge a long-term future with the Hammers...
Diego, you are back in a West Ham kit, so how does that feel?
"Yes, it feels great to be back. It's a nice place to be and I missed it when I was away. Going out on loan has positives, but I've missed training and being with the boys every day. "It's easier to get on with players with the club that you're signed to, so I've missed some of the boys. I saw them before we met up and it's nice to see them again and spend a lot of time with them."
You all seem to be really enjoying the US Tour?
"The facilities are great and the hotel is great, but obviously the game was a bit disappointing with the result. Obviously it was about getting minutes and that was the most important thing in pre-season. "We got what we wanted in terms of everybody being fit and getting through. I'm enjoying training – even the double sessions which maybe some players won't enjoy as much!"
Without going into details, last season was difficult, so is it now a case of pressing the 'Reset' button?
"Yeah, to be honest at the end of last season I was thinking about coming back and getting ready to be a West Ham player again. Loans have positives and negatives as well and I would do anything to stay here, as I love it."
A year ago this month you featured in the Europa League, so do you see this season's competition as another chance to impress?
"I hope so. Obviously we don't know what the gaffer is thinking, as it was disappointing that we got knocked out last year and didn't really get into the competition, so I'm sure this year we're going to really go for it and make sure we qualify and are in amongst the big boys. "As long as we're in the Europa League, that means there will be more chances to play matches, especially with the squad we have. I'm excited and thinking positively about it."
Just finally, your father Gus has taken over as manager of Spanish La Liga side Betis, who happen to be supported by Adrian, so the pressure is on!
"That's right! Adrian has told me that his whole family are Betis fans and have season tickets, so I'll have to tell my old man to make sure they work hard and have a good pre-season, or else I'll have Adrian on my back every day in training. "Dad is happy. He had a spell in Greece and used it as a stepping stone to get a job in Spain so he's excited. I spoke to him this week and I wish him all the best."
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West Ham meet £25m demands for striker but he prefers Spain move
WEST HAM are reportedly willing to give AC Milan's demands for Carlos Bacca - but must still convince him to move to England.
By JAMES GRAY
PUBLISHED: 14:40, Sat, Jul 9, 2016 | UPDATED: 14:50, Sat, Jul 9, 2016
Express.co.uk
West Ham are in the market for a striker this summer after no member of their squad got into double figures in the Premier League last season. The Hammers have been linked with moves for Alexandre Lacazette and Vincent Janssen but have yet to secure a striker. And according to Italian newspaper La Stampa, they are in a two-horse race for Bacca's signature. Slaven Bilic's side had initially refused to up their valuation from £20million to the £25m Milan wanted for him. But now they are reportedly happy to pay the full fee for the player in order to convince the Italian side to sell. However, they are not the only club interested in Bacca's services. Atletico Madrid's main priority is said to be luring Diego Costa back to the club from Chelsea but incoming boss Antonio Conte wants the Spain international to stay. But should Diego Simeone miss out on Costa, La Stampa claim he will match the £25m bid of West Ham and bring Bacca, who left Sevilla let summer, back to Spain. And the 29-year-old is said to prefer returning to the country where he spent two seasons and won two Europa Leagues. It is still though not clear whether he will indeed choose Atletico over West Ham, but Bacca is said to be certain to leave Milan this summer no matter what.
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AGENT: NO OFFERS MADE FOR ZAZA
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
There have been no offers made for Juventus striker and West Ham target Simone Zaza, according to his agent Christian Maifredi.
Having been turned down by both Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette, the Hammers have moved onto their next tier of striker targets which includes Juventus' Simone Zaza.
Zaza was used as Juventus' fourth-choice striker last season behind the likes of Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata, who has recently rejoined Real Madrid, and Zaza was limited to just five starts in Serie A last season, making 19 appearances in total and scoring just five times.
Juventus will allow Zaza to leave the club once they find a replacement for Alvaro Morata, which seems a long way away but that has not deterred clubs from lining up moves for the Italian international.
Despite talk of €30m offers from Wolfsburg and West Ham, Maifredi states that no club have made a request to sign his client thus far.
"For now the player has not received any request" Maifredi told SportItalia.
Zaza is one of a number of strikers West Ham are keeping tabs on, along with AC Milan's Carlos Bacca and Napoli's Manolo Gabbiadini.
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SASSUOLO RIVAL WEST HAM AND EVERTON FOR KHOUMA BABACAR
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Serie A side Sassuolo have joined West Ham and Everton in the race to sign striker Khouma Babacar from Fiorentina this summer, according to reputable Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
West Ham have identified Babacar as the 'Plan B' should they fail to sign Carlos Bacca from AC Milan who's set to hold talks with the East London club early next week over a £25.7m move.
The 23-year-old netted seven times in 24 appearances for Fiorentina last season and has three years left to run on his current contract at the club having been there since he was 15.
Babacar is wanted by both West Ham, Middlesbrough and Everton and his agent flew to England yesterday to hold talks with representatives of all three clubs over the weekend.
Sassuolo have also held talks with Babacar's agent over a possible move to remain in Italian football as it grows increasingly likely that the striker will leave Fiorentina this summer.
It's believed la Viola will allow Babacar to leave the club this summer should the receive an offer of around €12m (£10m) for his services.
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WEST HAM CHASING LAZIO STAR ANTONIO CANDREVA
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
West Ham are believed to be keeping tabs on Lazio midfielder Antonio Candreva this summer, who has also been linked with moves to Chelsea, Inter Milan and Napoli.
According to Czech source Eurofotbal, the Italian international is wanted by the Hammers as well as Inter Milan and Napoli, while the Metro state that the Blues want Candreva to replace Juan Cuadrado next season.
The 29-year-old was a star performer for Antonio Conte's side at Euro 2016 and has been one of the leading wingers in Serie A in recent years, scoring 10 goals and assisting four times last season.
Pier Marco Tacca/Getty Images SportPier Marco Tacca/Getty Images Sport
It's believed that, while Lazio aren't keen on letting Candreva leave this summer, he could be available for €25m, which would be a club-record fee for the Hammers.
The right-winger is well-versed as a right-wing-back in Conte's 3-5-2 formation, making him a well-rounded option on the right of midfield.
West Ham already have a number of options who can play that position, including Michail Antonio and new arrival Sofiane Feghouli, but a player of Candreva's experience and quality cannot be overlooked should he become available.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
A year ago Diego Poyet was West Ham United's penalty shootout hero in the UEFA Europa League victory over Maltese side Birkirkara. The stage appeared set for the young midfielder to establish himself during his second season with the Hammers but, for one reason or another, things did not quite go to plan. Poyet spent time on loan at MK Dons and first club Charlton Athletic, only for both clubs to endure difficult seasons which culminated in relegation from the Championship. For the 21-year-old, this was a new experience after a meteoric rise from the Addicks' reserve team to a Player of the Year accolade and a summer 2014 move to West Ham. Speaking to whufc.com, Poyet reflected on his stop-start 2015/16 campaign and expressed his desire to forge a long-term future with the Hammers...
Diego, you are back in a West Ham kit, so how does that feel?
"Yes, it feels great to be back. It's a nice place to be and I missed it when I was away. Going out on loan has positives, but I've missed training and being with the boys every day. "It's easier to get on with players with the club that you're signed to, so I've missed some of the boys. I saw them before we met up and it's nice to see them again and spend a lot of time with them."
You all seem to be really enjoying the US Tour?
"The facilities are great and the hotel is great, but obviously the game was a bit disappointing with the result. Obviously it was about getting minutes and that was the most important thing in pre-season. "We got what we wanted in terms of everybody being fit and getting through. I'm enjoying training – even the double sessions which maybe some players won't enjoy as much!"
Without going into details, last season was difficult, so is it now a case of pressing the 'Reset' button?
"Yeah, to be honest at the end of last season I was thinking about coming back and getting ready to be a West Ham player again. Loans have positives and negatives as well and I would do anything to stay here, as I love it."
A year ago this month you featured in the Europa League, so do you see this season's competition as another chance to impress?
"I hope so. Obviously we don't know what the gaffer is thinking, as it was disappointing that we got knocked out last year and didn't really get into the competition, so I'm sure this year we're going to really go for it and make sure we qualify and are in amongst the big boys. "As long as we're in the Europa League, that means there will be more chances to play matches, especially with the squad we have. I'm excited and thinking positively about it."
Just finally, your father Gus has taken over as manager of Spanish La Liga side Betis, who happen to be supported by Adrian, so the pressure is on!
"That's right! Adrian has told me that his whole family are Betis fans and have season tickets, so I'll have to tell my old man to make sure they work hard and have a good pre-season, or else I'll have Adrian on my back every day in training. "Dad is happy. He had a spell in Greece and used it as a stepping stone to get a job in Spain so he's excited. I spoke to him this week and I wish him all the best."
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West Ham meet £25m demands for striker but he prefers Spain move
WEST HAM are reportedly willing to give AC Milan's demands for Carlos Bacca - but must still convince him to move to England.
By JAMES GRAY
PUBLISHED: 14:40, Sat, Jul 9, 2016 | UPDATED: 14:50, Sat, Jul 9, 2016
Express.co.uk
West Ham are in the market for a striker this summer after no member of their squad got into double figures in the Premier League last season. The Hammers have been linked with moves for Alexandre Lacazette and Vincent Janssen but have yet to secure a striker. And according to Italian newspaper La Stampa, they are in a two-horse race for Bacca's signature. Slaven Bilic's side had initially refused to up their valuation from £20million to the £25m Milan wanted for him. But now they are reportedly happy to pay the full fee for the player in order to convince the Italian side to sell. However, they are not the only club interested in Bacca's services. Atletico Madrid's main priority is said to be luring Diego Costa back to the club from Chelsea but incoming boss Antonio Conte wants the Spain international to stay. But should Diego Simeone miss out on Costa, La Stampa claim he will match the £25m bid of West Ham and bring Bacca, who left Sevilla let summer, back to Spain. And the 29-year-old is said to prefer returning to the country where he spent two seasons and won two Europa Leagues. It is still though not clear whether he will indeed choose Atletico over West Ham, but Bacca is said to be certain to leave Milan this summer no matter what.
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AGENT: NO OFFERS MADE FOR ZAZA
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
There have been no offers made for Juventus striker and West Ham target Simone Zaza, according to his agent Christian Maifredi.
Having been turned down by both Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette, the Hammers have moved onto their next tier of striker targets which includes Juventus' Simone Zaza.
Zaza was used as Juventus' fourth-choice striker last season behind the likes of Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata, who has recently rejoined Real Madrid, and Zaza was limited to just five starts in Serie A last season, making 19 appearances in total and scoring just five times.
Juventus will allow Zaza to leave the club once they find a replacement for Alvaro Morata, which seems a long way away but that has not deterred clubs from lining up moves for the Italian international.
Despite talk of €30m offers from Wolfsburg and West Ham, Maifredi states that no club have made a request to sign his client thus far.
"For now the player has not received any request" Maifredi told SportItalia.
Zaza is one of a number of strikers West Ham are keeping tabs on, along with AC Milan's Carlos Bacca and Napoli's Manolo Gabbiadini.
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SASSUOLO RIVAL WEST HAM AND EVERTON FOR KHOUMA BABACAR
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Serie A side Sassuolo have joined West Ham and Everton in the race to sign striker Khouma Babacar from Fiorentina this summer, according to reputable Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
West Ham have identified Babacar as the 'Plan B' should they fail to sign Carlos Bacca from AC Milan who's set to hold talks with the East London club early next week over a £25.7m move.
The 23-year-old netted seven times in 24 appearances for Fiorentina last season and has three years left to run on his current contract at the club having been there since he was 15.
Babacar is wanted by both West Ham, Middlesbrough and Everton and his agent flew to England yesterday to hold talks with representatives of all three clubs over the weekend.
Sassuolo have also held talks with Babacar's agent over a possible move to remain in Italian football as it grows increasingly likely that the striker will leave Fiorentina this summer.
It's believed la Viola will allow Babacar to leave the club this summer should the receive an offer of around €12m (£10m) for his services.
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WEST HAM CHASING LAZIO STAR ANTONIO CANDREVA
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
West Ham are believed to be keeping tabs on Lazio midfielder Antonio Candreva this summer, who has also been linked with moves to Chelsea, Inter Milan and Napoli.
According to Czech source Eurofotbal, the Italian international is wanted by the Hammers as well as Inter Milan and Napoli, while the Metro state that the Blues want Candreva to replace Juan Cuadrado next season.
The 29-year-old was a star performer for Antonio Conte's side at Euro 2016 and has been one of the leading wingers in Serie A in recent years, scoring 10 goals and assisting four times last season.
Pier Marco Tacca/Getty Images SportPier Marco Tacca/Getty Images Sport
It's believed that, while Lazio aren't keen on letting Candreva leave this summer, he could be available for €25m, which would be a club-record fee for the Hammers.
The right-winger is well-versed as a right-wing-back in Conte's 3-5-2 formation, making him a well-rounded option on the right of midfield.
West Ham already have a number of options who can play that position, including Michail Antonio and new arrival Sofiane Feghouli, but a player of Candreva's experience and quality cannot be overlooked should he become available.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 9
Daily WHUFC News - 9th July 2016
Payet reaches Euro 2016 Final
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet was left celebrating another famous victory after he played
his part in helping France reach the UEFA Euro 2016 Final after they beat
Germany 2-0. The West Ham forward enjoyed a memorable night in Marseille and
will now be preparing for his first major final against Portugal in Paris on
10 July. Two goals from the tournament's top goalscorer Antoine Griezmann
helped France record their first victory over Germany in a major tournament
since 1958. The France forward scored the first from the penalty spot right
on the stroke of half-time after Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger was
penalised for handball in an aerial challenge with Patrice Evra. Griezmann
scored the crucial second with 18 minutes left on the clock when he turned
the ball home from close-range after Manuel Neuer could only half-clear Paul
Pogba's cross. Germany refused to lie down and Joshua Kimmich hit the
woodwork late on, before seeing his header superbly saved by Hugo Lloris.
France held on to beat the World Champions and became the first host nation
to reach the Euro Final on two separate occasions. Payet has been one of the
star performers for France during the tournament and will now be hoping his
side can beat Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portuguese team-mates on Sunday
night at the Stade de France to lift the trophy.
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Manu made up by Rio call
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has told West Ham TV of his pride after being named in
Argentina's 18-man squad for Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The diminutive Hammers
star is one of the big names in Julio Olarticoechea's selection, who will
open their campaign against Portugal on 4 August, with further group games
against Algeria and Honduras to follow. The former U20 international and
River Plate No10 has been recognised for a superb debut season in English
football with the Hammers, and the 23-year-old is hoping to continue that
good form when he returns to South America. "I am very happy for this,
representing my national team is always special," said Lanzini. "It's a big
tournament and is being held in South America, which is good for us and
important for Argentina."
Argentina won Olympic Gold in both 2004 and 2008, with Carlos Tevez
top-scoring in the former with eight goals. Javier Mascherano was part of
both victorious squads, while Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero were champions
eight years ago. Lanzini therefore knows how important the U23 competition
is to his fellow countrymen. With the likes of Atletico Madrid's Angel
Correa and River Plate's Giovanni Simeone - the son of Atletico coach Diego
- in the squad, Lanzini is confident of success. "For Argentina, going to
the Olympics to take the Gold is something we always try to achieve," he
confirmed. "It is very important for the country and we will do all we can
to take the Gold again. "Big players have played for Argentina in the
Olympic Games before, and we have some big players in this team too. It's
very important for all of us. "I know all of our players very well and we
will have a strong chance to do well. I have enjoyed our tour in America
very much, and I like this country, so I will be ready for these Olympics."
Lanzini also had warm words for another of West Ham's internationals,
Dimitri Payet, who has reached the UEFA Euro 2016 final with France. The
pair's combination play, movement and creativity played a central role in
the Hammers' strong 2015/16 campaign, and the Argentine is happy to see his
fellow attacking midfielder doing so well on home soil. "I am very happy for
Dimi," said Lanzini. "I know this was a very important tournament for him
and he has done very well. "I know he faces Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal
in the final, but I am backing France and Dimi, of course!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Insider
WHUFC.com
All the reports this week have surrounded a move for Turkey international
Gokhan Tore. Tore played under Slaven Bilic at Besiktas and has been
strongly linked with a move to West Ham throughout the summer.
Besiktas president Fikret Orman added to the speculation on Friday when he
said a deal has been agreed with the Hammers. My sources have confirmed to
me that the Club are in advanced discussions with the player and have agreed
a deal with the Turkish Club. It is my understanding that the move should be
finalised next week. Speculation continues to grow over which new big name
forward will be brought into the squad next season.
I have been told that the Club have several huge bids in for strikers and in
one case it has been accepted by the club, but not by the player yet. The
Club are not prepared to give away which names they are going for until a
deal has been completed.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
2015/16 in review: February & March
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
Join us as we take a look back at the 2015/16 season through the eyes of
KUMB Editor Graeme Howlett, who penned a weekly column for the Echo
newspaper throughout the campaign.
Today we look back at January and February in part seven of our review...
21 February
West Ham were simply too good for Championship side Blackburn Rovers at
Ewood Park on Sunday afternoon as they eased their way through to the
quarter finals of the FA Cup for the first time since 2011.
A brace apiece from Dimitri Payet and new signing Emmanuel Emenike -
combined with a Vic Moses strike that cancelled out Ben Marshall's early
opener (NB. another slow start from the Hammers) - sent West Ham through to
a potential last eight encounter with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
League One Shrewsbury, who face Man U in the last of the eight fifth round
fixtures tonight (Monday) will no doubt have something to say about that -
and who's to say the League One side won't be able to overcome a distinctly
lacklustre Mancunian outfit?
But even if they fail, West Ham should have little to fear about facing
Louis Van Gaal's expensively-assembled, ragtag gang of misfits who have
flattered to deceive for much of the campaign and have been unable to beat
United in either of their last two meetings.
Indeed, should they continue to play as they did on Sunday, the Hammers
should fear nobody. The gulf in class between Bilic's side and Paul
Lambert's Championship strugglers was vast and clearly evident and, bar
Marshall's early effort, which caught Darren Randolph unsighted, this really
was a case of men against boys.
Spurred on by more than 7,000 travelling supporters, who had made the
250-mile trip from London to the North West, West Ham scored five, had two
efforts disallowed for offside and hit the post. Had they scored ten, Rovers
fans would have had little cause for complaint.
At the heart of almost everything good that came from West Ham was Dimitri
Payet, who is clearly revelling in his role as the club's poster boy.
Happy with his new contract and adored by the fans, the 28-year-old
midfielder scored another wonderful first half free kick before wrapping up
the game with a virtuoso effort that involved a fifty-yard run and the
beating of several opponents, whom he left trailing in his wake.
It would have been a perfect day for West Ham had Cheik Kouyate not been
sent off midway through the second half after he was deemed to have denied a
goalscoring opportunity by referee Jon Moss, thus earning a one-match
suspension.
However West Ham believe they have a good chance of overturning the decision
upon appeal because Kouyate's (minimal) contact with Adam Henley was clearly
accidental and the striker had already lost control of the ball, which was
racing away towards 'keeper Darren Randolph, before contact was made.
28 February
The press room at the Boleyn Ground was unusually busy on Saturday afternoon
as the media assembled to witness former manager Sam Allardyce's return to
the East End.
However those journalists who were present expecting to report on 'Big Sam's
savaging by ungrateful West Ham supporters' were to be left disappointed.
Not a single boo or jeer - nor any kind of negative chant, for that matter -
was aimed at Slaven Bilic's predecessor as the Hammers secured three more
vital Premier League points against Allardyce's new club, Sunderland.
Instead, supporters used the occasion to mark their appreciation of Bilic's
regime by chanting HIS name on numerous occasions times during the match - a
gesture that was rarely if ever offered to the abrasive Allardyce.
(Excepting perhaps the 2012 play-off final when fans adapted ad hoc the
chorus of Coldplay's 'Paradise' to 'Alla, Alla, Alladyce'!)
West Ham - who with Bilic's guidance have been transformed into genuine
contenders for a European spot - struggled to get out of second gear against
their relegation-threatened opponents but still managed to grab a win thanks
to Michail Antonio's excellent first half strike, his fifth since joining
West Ham back in September.
And although they were on the backfoot for much of the second period,
Bilic's side did just about enough to keep the Black Cats at bay - although
it should be noted that West Ham also hit the woodwork twice (via Mark Noble
and Andy Carroll efforts) and had a very decent penalty appeal ignored by
referee Mike Dean.
Still, there was something quite ironic about winning this particular
fixture by one goal to nil, with a backs-to-the-wall ending; it could be
said that Bilic simply out-Allardyce'd Sam Allardyce!
The win takes West Ham back above Southampton and Manchester United into
fifth spot in the Premier League. And it's to the latter that the Hammers
will return for a second time this season for the quarter finals of the FA
Cup, the draw for which was made last Sunday following West Ham's 5-1 fifth
round demolition of Blackburn.
Allocated just shy of 10,000 tickets, West Ham sold their entire quota for
next month's tie at Old Trafford within 24 hours. Fans, thousands of whom
were left ticketless and disappointed genuinely believe that Bilic's team
have a genuine chance of reaching the semi finals this year - despite being
granted what would traditionally be perceived as one of the toughest away
draws.
Additionally, West Ham's FA Cup pedigree against the Red Devils is
impressive having beaten them at the fifth round (1986) and semi final
(1964) stages previously. And who can forget Paolo Di Canio scoring a
76th-minute, fourth round winner at Old Trafford in January 2001 as
goalkeeper Fabien Barthez hailed an imaginary taxi?
6 March
Last November a dreadful challenge by Everton's James McCarthy sidelined
West Ham's Dimitri Payet for the remainder of 2015.
So it was poetic justice when the brilliant Frenchman popped up inside the
Toffees' six-yard box during Saturday's return meeting between the two clubs
to score the winning goal, as West Ham recorded their first win on the Blue
side of Stanley Park since December 2005.
And what an incredible win it was for Slaven Bilic's side, who were two
goals behind with less than fifteen minutes of normal time remaining before
staging a remarkable comeback to steal all three points, courtesy of Payet's
last-minute winner.
Having fallen behind to strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon, Adrian
made a brilliant save from a (Lukaku) penalty to prevent West Ham from going
3-0 down - at which point the travelling fans must have been wondering
whether the early start had been worth it!
However their patience and endeavour was ultimately rewarded as West Ham
staged an epic comeback. Michail Antonio, prolific of late scored United's
first on 78 minutes, the returning Diafra Sakho levelled the game three
minutes later - and Payet - who else? - grabbed the winner, just as added-on
time commenced.
The victory - West Ham's third in a week, following the wins against
Sunderland and Tottenham - lifted Bilic's side back above Manchester United
into fourth place in the Premier League, thus keeping alive the Irons' hopes
of ending what is already a memorable campaign in a European position.
But which competition that will be in remains to be seen, with the Hammers
now presenting a very real threat to those clubs hoping to finish in the top
four and qualify for next season's Champions League.
Just three points separate West Ham and second-placed Arsenal, who drew at
Spurs on Saturday and whilst Bilic won't dare speak of it, a spot in
Europe's premier competition is certainly within reach. Unlikely still - but
who thought Leicester City would be title favourites in March!?
However all thoughts of Premier League success will be set aside for the
next week or so as attention returns to the FA Cup, where a tantalising
quarter final tie at Old Trafford awaits.
West Ham have enjoyed mixed FA Cup fortunes against Manchester United in
recent seasons. Few present on the day will forget Paolo Di Canio's winning
goal in a 2001, fourth round meeting; few who witnessed the Gary
Breen-inspired 6-0 defeat two years later will wish to remember it!
More recently, in a 2013 third round tie, the Hammers were seconds away from
securing a 2-1 win at the Boleyn Ground when Robin Van Persie grabbed a
last-minute equaliser, taking the tie back to Old Trafford for a replay -
which the hosts won 1-0.
But this is a very different West Ham team right now - and one that has
every chance of turning the tables and securing a place in this year's FA
Cup semi finals.
20 March
When both sets of players and managers agree that a player has been harshly
sent off, it's difficult to express sympathy with the referee. And when your
team had been the victim of a string of similarly-poor calls, it's perhaps
no surprise that conspiracy theories begin to emerge,
Only two people have been outspoken in their support of referee Mark
Clattenburg's decision to dismiss Cheik Kouyate for a robust but fair
challenge on Dwight Gayle during Saturday's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at
the Boleyn Ground.
One was MotD's commentator, whose view can be dismissed on the basis that he
claimed Kouyate went into the challenge two-footed and with studs showing -
which simply didn't happen. The other was pundit and ex-Arsenal star Ian
Wright, who face the Hammers in their next fixture - sans the influential
Kouyate, as it stands.
At the risk of beginning to sound like a broken record, Slaven Bilic's
frustration is entirely understandable. Robbed of an FA Cup semi final spot
at Old Trafford and two vital Premier League points at Stamford Bridge days
later thanks to dreadful decisions, West Ham's season is being affected -
negatively - by bad calls from officials.
And the myth which suggests these poor decisions even themselves out over
the course of the season is just that - a falsehood that simply has no
evidence to support it, yet plenty to suggest otherwise.
In order to determine how much teams are affected, over at Talksport they
have been compiling a list of incorrect decisions by referees throughout the
season. The aforementioned conspiracists won't be shocked to see the Hammers
bottom of this table, having received four incorrect calls in their favour
this term - and 11 against.
Conversely, the table is topped by Manchester United (eight for, one
against), Leicester (surprisingly perhaps with twelve for and seven against)
and then Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City.
So whilst it may be going too far to suggest the game is bent - even though
it has been claimed in recent days that a great number of Premier League
stars have been administered performance-enhancing drugs - it seems that
somehow, enough pressure is being exerted upon match officials to cause them
to award marginal decisions in favour of the league's elite clubs when push
comes to shove.
However the real shame about Kouyate's dismissal and Clattenburg's generally
awful performance is that it completely overshadowed another incredible free
kick by Dimitri Payet, who is probably the world's premier dead ball
specialist at this point in time.
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Besiktas announce Tore deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Turkish club Besiktas have confirmed that Gokhan Tore has hald talks with
West Ham regarding a move to the Premier League. And that, say Turkish
sources, means only one thing - that the talented young winger is finally on
his way to the club. Kaan Bayakit, Editor of Besiktas International
explained why the Super Lig side made the statement. "Beşiktaş' announcement
that they have started the negotiations with West Ham United is common
protocol once a deal is has been struck," he wrote. "For those not familiar
with how Beşiktaş commonly do things, they usually don't report the
'negotiations' until an agreement has already been reached - so we can
therefore assume that Gökhan Töre will be a Hammer this coming season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bacca talks set for next week
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham and Milan are reported to have reached an agreement regarding the
transfer of Carlos Bacca. The two clubs are understood to have agreed a fee
in the region of £25million for the 29-year-old Colombian international, who
is seeking a salary worth in the region of £75,000-per-week, according to
reports from Italy. And the two parties are set to meet early next week to
discuss a potential transfer for the former Brugge and Seville striker. West
Ham turned to Bacca after their plans to sign top targets Alexandre
Lacazette and Michy Batshuayi ended in failure; the former due to a lack of
interest in joining West Ham and the latter following Chelsea's late
intervention. 5'9" Bacca, who has thus far spent just one season in Italy
scored 20 goals for Milan last season in 43 appearances and five goals in 12
starts for his country.
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Hammers comment on Arsenal 'ban' stance
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have backed a new policy introduced by Arsenal which
promises to ban fans who post offensive messages via social media from the
Emirates. Earlier today it was revealed that Arsenal had begun banning fans
who use social media to post offensive or insulting messages from purchasing
match day tickets for home games. And the scheme has received a mixed
reception from West Ham fans responding to a KUMB twitter poll.
KUMB Podcast host Chris Scull was one of the first to respond in favour of
the new policy. "It's a good thing if implemented correctly and sensibly,"
he replied. "But we should still be allowed to call the odd player a
donkey!"
That view was supported by Joseph100200, who agreed that it was time for
"bedroom warriors" to be brought to task. "It's a good thing," he said.
"Stop people saying on their keyboards what they wouldn't say in the
street."
However Kuba Szerszen was one of those to disagree with the new policy, as
he felt it could be open to abuse by those interpreting it. "I think it's
dangerous as this tool may allow clubs to ban supporters for whatever
reason, for criticism etc," he said.
And Stuart Day believes that bans should only be introduced for certain
offences - and where there is no possibility of the wrong individual being
identified.
"If it's for racist comments then I can understand why they are looking at
it," he replied. "However you have to be 100 per cent certain before
punishing."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 7 JULY 2016 AT 10:51PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
At the moment the Sullivan's are on holiday and so direct meetings with
David Sullivan are not able to happen at the moment but of course he will be
constantly on the phone trying to sort deals out.
Tore is close. It should happen tomorrow (I know I said this yesterday).
The deal has taken a lot of negotiating and it is still ongoing on the finer
details because of the complexity of the loan and then buy arrangements plus
wages. Jack Sullivan did say in three days, tomorrow will be the third day
so hopefully he will join tomorrow.
Bacca's agent in London. This is not true. The fee has not yet been agreed
with Milan, although it is getting closer and as I mentioned David Sullivan
isn't here at the moment so there would be no point in the agent travelling.
We do hope to conclude this signing within the next few weeks but there is
still a long way to go.
Young to join? This is not true. Whilst we are looking for a player who
could cover left back on loan, Young's wages are unlikely to make it him.
Young players: The club hope to complete at least one, possibly two, young
player signings by the end of next week. All of those names have been
reported on the site in previous articles.
Janssen to Spurs: It does seem that this is where he wishes to go and if
that is the case he can. He wasn't in the top five priority forwards but
someone that we had considered.
Calleri to join: This is a forward that we have monitored for a while and
someone who I have always thought could join on loan. Originally he wasn't
called up to the Argentina Olympic Squad but he has been drafted in now
which means the club may hold off the offer.
Benteke to hold talks with the club: It appears that we have lost interest
in signing the Belgium forward due to his wages and his agent being
difficult to work with.
Sakho transfer request: I cant confirm that he has handed in a transfer
request and I would like to think that it isn't true. One thing I will say
is that he isn't happy and there is a mystery around his "injuries" if we
can get the figures quoted in the press for him (which I very much doubt due
to his injuries) I would take it.
The club are not panicking at all and they know they will land many quality
players ahead. I trust them on this. Tomorrow I am meeting the legend that
is Trevor Brooking and I hope to have some quality answers to share with
you. We are also in the process of launching our forum. It would be great
to get your feedback on the columns that we write and to build up
discussions around the themes that myself and others will try to respond to.
Have a look on the site-we do not see this as a rival to some of the
excellent forums out there just a chance to build up some discussions around
our articles.
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Payet to represent West Ham in Euro 16 final
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be represented in the final of Euro 16 by French hero Dimitri
Payet, who helped his country to a 2-0 semi final win against Germany in
Marseille last night. Although he didn't scored during the game - that
particular honour falling to Atletico's Antoine Griezmann, who grabbed both
of the hosts' goals - Payet was a constant threat once again and was well
received by the home fans upon his substitution 19 minutes from time. The
victory helped set up a final clash this Sunday (10 July) against Portugal ,
whose run the the final - which took in matches against Iceland, Austria,
Hungary, Croatia and Wales - must rank as one of the least taxing in recent
national tournament history. And that will be one of the factors leading to
the French being strong favourites to lift the trophy in front of their own
supporters this weekend. West Ham's other representatives at Euro 16 have
all returned home; Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland were last 16
casualties against finalists France, whilst Angelo Ogbonna's Italy succumbed
to the Germans in a quarter final penalty shootout. The most unlikely
Hammers hero however was Welsh defender James Collins, who ended a
ridiculously-long season - lasting some 349 days - with a semi final
appearance against Portugal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho hands in his notice
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request, according to reports. The
Senegal international, long rumoured to be set for the exit door this summer
was recently linked with a move to Sunderland and a reunion with former boss
Sam Allardyce. Those particular negotiations ended in an impasse with the
Black Cats unwilling to meet West Ham's terms for the former Metz striker,
since when West Bromwich Albion have expressed interest (to the extent of
offering Saido Berahino in exchange). And now Sakho - who didn't travel to
the US last week for the current two-match tour - has moved to speed up his
potential exit from West Ham by issuing a transfer request, according to a
report by Sky Sports. The 26-year-old was brought to England on Sam
Allardyce's watch in 2014, but made just 24 appearances for West Ham last
season (seven goals). He was considerably more effective during his first
season in England (2014/15) when he managed 12 goals from 26 appearances.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 8 JULY 2016 AT 5:29PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
I have written this column early for two reasons. Firstly, Jack Sullivan
has tweeted something and the club's official Insider has also provided an
article which I can follow on from. Secondly, I am interviewing Trevor
Brooking later with SDCC for a new radio show that we are launching and will
be airing on the site. This one will be prerecorded but most will be live.
I am not a radio person and do not have the voice for it but I am sure it
will be an interesting listen. I will give more details later and we are
delighted to have a new forum on the site. Again, more info will come on
that.
Tore deal delayed: The deal is actually completed from all ends now. The
hold up is because of the Islamic festival of Eid. Turkey is a largely
Muslim country and everything stops for their biggest festival. The Turkish
administration offices and legal departments needed to make this deal final
are shut until Monday and this is the word from within the club. Whilst Tore
is in England it will explain why the deal cannot be finalised until the
departments reopen next week. Eid is not something that can be predicted
and depends on the position of the moon after the month of fasting (although
I am no expert). No one is able to predict when it will happen and
unfortunately it has fallen this week to delay this transfer. Rest assured
he will sign.
Bids in for forwards: As I regularly report in my columns, and despite
people saying I am throwing out as many names as possible, we do have lots
of bids in for forwards. I have regularly listed who they are and these are
all true. The figure is around ten player bids. Today we had a bid for Bacca
accepted by AC Milan. The club are keen to sign him and he is, at the
moment, the number one target. The problem is he has asked for huge wages
again. Many sites have been reported 60k a week, it is double that at £120k
a week plus bonuses. The club feel that these demands are too high and have
offered less and hope to meet him more in the middle. Should we offer him
£120k a week it would smash our wage structure and be way more than both
Andy Carroll (the highest paid player) and Payet (the most deserving).
Whilst the chairman has admitted he offered Tevez £150k a week, this could
be justified and like I said before it wasn't a recent offer despite what
has been reported elsewhere. This offer was months ago, before Payet had
signed his new deal. We therefore want Bacca to lower his demands and go
more clause based rather than having a high weekly salary. This is
especially needed given that he is unproven in England.
Wage Demands all round: Unfortunately all the forwards that we are after
have huge wage demands - another top target, Gomez, is the same.
Calleri: I have had it confirmed that the Argentina forward is a top target
and that the club are very disappointed that he has now been called into the
Olympic squad having not originally been accepted.
Sakho Transfer Request: It has also been confirmed that Sakho has put in a
transfer request. The club are not too concerned about this. We are really
worried about his injury record and think if he wants to move this could be
a good thing for the club. Unfortunately other clubs, namely Sunderland,
are also aware of the injury concerns and on that basis are offering a low
initial fee with much of it based on how many games he plays. WBA are also
interested but again, at the moment will only pay a small initial fee, so we
want to hold out for more. The bottom line is the player is unhappy and is
very likely to leave.
If any news breaks while I am out tonight I may be able to do a second
column. Many of you have spoken about ways that you may wish to help the
site grow further. This has meant a lot to me and so if you wish to do so I
promise it will all go on expanding what we do. Further details will
follow. Thank you.
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Julian Dicks says West Ham they are lucky to have Slaven Bilic
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United coach Julian Dicks says the club are lucky to have enigmatic
manager Slaven Bilic. The Hammers impressed fans and pundits alike by
mounting a serious challenge for the Champions League places last season. As
well as taking a number of notable scalps home and away, including a
historic treble over Liverpool, Bilic reinvigorated the East Londoners with
stars such as Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini helping rediscover the 'West
Ham way' once more. The Irons officially enjoyed their best ever season in
the Premier League era in terms of points and ended with a positive goal
difference for the first time in 30 years.
Bilic also masterminded a fitting and thrilling 3-2 comeback win over
Manchester United in the last ever game at Upton Park. And the club now
qualified for the Europa League despite two defeats in their last three
games seeing them drop from fifth to seventh by the season's end. The former
Croatia boss has since impressed a wider audience with his brilliant
displays as a pundit for ITV during Euro 2016. Listen, he's got something
about him' And Hammers legend Dicks, one of Bilic's former teammates and a
coach in his backroom team, told the club's official website they are lucky
to have him. "He is (as charasmatic and enigmatic in the changing room as he
is the TV studio), listen he's a good manager," Dicks told whufc.com.
"You've got Lee Dixon trumpeting him for the England job. Listen, he's got
something about him, I mean you don't see many people jump on the table in
the commentary in the Euros. "But that's him, he's very passionate, we know
that, I know that, the fans know that and to be honest I think West Ham are
lucky to have him." It is difficult to envisage a situation where Bilic
would want to leave West Ham for another job given the club's exciting move
to the 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium later this month.
Next season sees some of the world's top managerial talent go head-to-head
in the Premier League with the likes of Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen
Klopp and Antonio Conte in the mix. Bilic knows he has a job on his hands to
better last season's seventh place finish but one thing is for sure Hammers
fans wouldn't swap him for anyone at the moment.
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Carlos Bacca demands to match Dimitri Payet as West Ham's best-paid player
with Colombian holding out for £120,000-a-week
Carlos Bacca will meet West Ham representatives on Monday
29-year-old earns £60,000 per week at AC Milan as club's joint-top earner
Colombia striker is holding out for £120,000 with Atletico Madrid interested
West Ham expect to pay around £20million to sign the former Sevilla striker
By KIERAN GILL FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 8 July 2016 | UPDATED: 01:08, 9 July 2016
Carlos Bacca wants to become West Ham's best-paid player alongside Dimitri
Payet if he signs for them this summer. The AC Milan striker, 29, is in
talks with the club but he expects to double his wages to £120,000 per week.
Bacca earns £60,000 at Milan as the Italian club's joint-top earner. West
Ham expect to pay around £20million to sign the Colombia international but
his demands are steep. Champions League runners-up Atletico Madrid are also
in for Bacca and that has worked against Slaven Bilic's side, with the
player understood to have demanded more after learning of their interest. A
meeting between West Ham and Bacca is scheduled for Monday. The Hammers were
offered Robin van Persie but turned down the former Arsenal and Manchester
United striker - even though he is willing to take a pay cut. Fenerbahce are
prepared to sell the 32-year-old and Middlesbrough are also believed to have
been contacted. Van Persie earns £240,000 per week and scored 14 goals in 29
appearances in his first season in Turkey. West Ham could be a striker light
as Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request. The 26-year-old, subject
of an £11m bid from Sunderland last month, found his chances limited last
season.
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Turkish winger Gokhan Tore completes West Ham move, Besiktas president
confirms
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Besiktas have confirmed that Gokhan Tore has completed his loan move to West
Ham. As reported by Standard Sport earlier this week West Ham were confident
that they would complete a deal for the 24-year-old winger in the coming
days after lengthy negotiations with the Hammers boss Slaven Bilic's former
side. However Besiktas completed the signing of reinforcements on the right
flank earlier this month, bringing in Gokhan Gonul from Fenerbahce. And the
Istanbul giants have now confirmed in a statement to Turkey's stock exchange
that they have reached an agreement with West Ham. Speaking in a press
conference Besiktas president Fikret Orman confirmed: "We have loaned Gokhan
Tore to West Ham, they made an offer and it appealed to us. "We have a lot
of competition for a place on the right wing with Andreas Beck, Gokhan
Gonul, Kerim Frei, Ricardo Quaresma, Aras Ozbiliz and Olcay Sahan." Tore
will be West Ham's third summer signing, joining defensive midfielder Havard
Nordtveit and fellow winger Sofiane Feghouli, both of whom arrived on a free
transfer. West Ham's priority remains a striker, with Carlos Bacca the new
favourite to join in a £26million deal. Co-owner David Sullivan revealed
earlier this week that the club had failed in an ambitious deal for Carlos
Tevez, who demanded £250,000-a-week to return to the side he saved from
relegation during the 2006/07 season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham table bid for Besiktas midfielder Atiba Hutchinson
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Friday, July 8, 2016
West Ham have submitted a a £3m bid for Besiktas midfielder Atiba
Hutchinson, the Turkish club's president has confirmed. Hammers manager
Slaven Bilic has recently admitted he is chasing the Canada international as
well as Gokhan Tore, having worked with both players during his tenure at
Besiktas. Tore is reportedly in London to complete a switch to the Olympic
Stadium but West Ham still have work to do if they are to prise Hutchinson
away from Istanbul. "I am going to have talks with Atiba Hutchinson," said
Besiktas chief Fikret Orman. "He has said he wants to move to England. West
Ham made a £3million offer but we want more for him. "As I said we will
decide his future after we hold talks."
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West Ham priced out of move for Napoli striker Manolo Gabbiadini
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Friday, July 8, 2016
Inter Milan and West Ham United are being priced out of a move for Napoli
striker Manolo Gabbiadini. The Italian struck nine goals in 30 games last
season but he is ready to leave in search of regular first-team football.
Stoke City were tracking the 24-year-old, but they have pulled out of the
race to leave Inter and West Ham fighting it out. However, according to
Gazzetta dello Sport, both clubs are currently being priced out of a move
for Gabbiadini. Napoli are holding out for a fee of £21m for their striker,
but West Ham are only willing to hand over £17m. Inter are also reluctant to
spend over £20m and a stalemate is on-going until someone budges on their
demands.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet was left celebrating another famous victory after he played
his part in helping France reach the UEFA Euro 2016 Final after they beat
Germany 2-0. The West Ham forward enjoyed a memorable night in Marseille and
will now be preparing for his first major final against Portugal in Paris on
10 July. Two goals from the tournament's top goalscorer Antoine Griezmann
helped France record their first victory over Germany in a major tournament
since 1958. The France forward scored the first from the penalty spot right
on the stroke of half-time after Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger was
penalised for handball in an aerial challenge with Patrice Evra. Griezmann
scored the crucial second with 18 minutes left on the clock when he turned
the ball home from close-range after Manuel Neuer could only half-clear Paul
Pogba's cross. Germany refused to lie down and Joshua Kimmich hit the
woodwork late on, before seeing his header superbly saved by Hugo Lloris.
France held on to beat the World Champions and became the first host nation
to reach the Euro Final on two separate occasions. Payet has been one of the
star performers for France during the tournament and will now be hoping his
side can beat Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portuguese team-mates on Sunday
night at the Stade de France to lift the trophy.
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Manu made up by Rio call
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has told West Ham TV of his pride after being named in
Argentina's 18-man squad for Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The diminutive Hammers
star is one of the big names in Julio Olarticoechea's selection, who will
open their campaign against Portugal on 4 August, with further group games
against Algeria and Honduras to follow. The former U20 international and
River Plate No10 has been recognised for a superb debut season in English
football with the Hammers, and the 23-year-old is hoping to continue that
good form when he returns to South America. "I am very happy for this,
representing my national team is always special," said Lanzini. "It's a big
tournament and is being held in South America, which is good for us and
important for Argentina."
Argentina won Olympic Gold in both 2004 and 2008, with Carlos Tevez
top-scoring in the former with eight goals. Javier Mascherano was part of
both victorious squads, while Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero were champions
eight years ago. Lanzini therefore knows how important the U23 competition
is to his fellow countrymen. With the likes of Atletico Madrid's Angel
Correa and River Plate's Giovanni Simeone - the son of Atletico coach Diego
- in the squad, Lanzini is confident of success. "For Argentina, going to
the Olympics to take the Gold is something we always try to achieve," he
confirmed. "It is very important for the country and we will do all we can
to take the Gold again. "Big players have played for Argentina in the
Olympic Games before, and we have some big players in this team too. It's
very important for all of us. "I know all of our players very well and we
will have a strong chance to do well. I have enjoyed our tour in America
very much, and I like this country, so I will be ready for these Olympics."
Lanzini also had warm words for another of West Ham's internationals,
Dimitri Payet, who has reached the UEFA Euro 2016 final with France. The
pair's combination play, movement and creativity played a central role in
the Hammers' strong 2015/16 campaign, and the Argentine is happy to see his
fellow attacking midfielder doing so well on home soil. "I am very happy for
Dimi," said Lanzini. "I know this was a very important tournament for him
and he has done very well. "I know he faces Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal
in the final, but I am backing France and Dimi, of course!"
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
All the reports this week have surrounded a move for Turkey international
Gokhan Tore. Tore played under Slaven Bilic at Besiktas and has been
strongly linked with a move to West Ham throughout the summer.
Besiktas president Fikret Orman added to the speculation on Friday when he
said a deal has been agreed with the Hammers. My sources have confirmed to
me that the Club are in advanced discussions with the player and have agreed
a deal with the Turkish Club. It is my understanding that the move should be
finalised next week. Speculation continues to grow over which new big name
forward will be brought into the squad next season.
I have been told that the Club have several huge bids in for strikers and in
one case it has been accepted by the club, but not by the player yet. The
Club are not prepared to give away which names they are going for until a
deal has been completed.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
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2015/16 in review: February & March
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
Join us as we take a look back at the 2015/16 season through the eyes of
KUMB Editor Graeme Howlett, who penned a weekly column for the Echo
newspaper throughout the campaign.
Today we look back at January and February in part seven of our review...
21 February
West Ham were simply too good for Championship side Blackburn Rovers at
Ewood Park on Sunday afternoon as they eased their way through to the
quarter finals of the FA Cup for the first time since 2011.
A brace apiece from Dimitri Payet and new signing Emmanuel Emenike -
combined with a Vic Moses strike that cancelled out Ben Marshall's early
opener (NB. another slow start from the Hammers) - sent West Ham through to
a potential last eight encounter with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
League One Shrewsbury, who face Man U in the last of the eight fifth round
fixtures tonight (Monday) will no doubt have something to say about that -
and who's to say the League One side won't be able to overcome a distinctly
lacklustre Mancunian outfit?
But even if they fail, West Ham should have little to fear about facing
Louis Van Gaal's expensively-assembled, ragtag gang of misfits who have
flattered to deceive for much of the campaign and have been unable to beat
United in either of their last two meetings.
Indeed, should they continue to play as they did on Sunday, the Hammers
should fear nobody. The gulf in class between Bilic's side and Paul
Lambert's Championship strugglers was vast and clearly evident and, bar
Marshall's early effort, which caught Darren Randolph unsighted, this really
was a case of men against boys.
Spurred on by more than 7,000 travelling supporters, who had made the
250-mile trip from London to the North West, West Ham scored five, had two
efforts disallowed for offside and hit the post. Had they scored ten, Rovers
fans would have had little cause for complaint.
At the heart of almost everything good that came from West Ham was Dimitri
Payet, who is clearly revelling in his role as the club's poster boy.
Happy with his new contract and adored by the fans, the 28-year-old
midfielder scored another wonderful first half free kick before wrapping up
the game with a virtuoso effort that involved a fifty-yard run and the
beating of several opponents, whom he left trailing in his wake.
It would have been a perfect day for West Ham had Cheik Kouyate not been
sent off midway through the second half after he was deemed to have denied a
goalscoring opportunity by referee Jon Moss, thus earning a one-match
suspension.
However West Ham believe they have a good chance of overturning the decision
upon appeal because Kouyate's (minimal) contact with Adam Henley was clearly
accidental and the striker had already lost control of the ball, which was
racing away towards 'keeper Darren Randolph, before contact was made.
28 February
The press room at the Boleyn Ground was unusually busy on Saturday afternoon
as the media assembled to witness former manager Sam Allardyce's return to
the East End.
However those journalists who were present expecting to report on 'Big Sam's
savaging by ungrateful West Ham supporters' were to be left disappointed.
Not a single boo or jeer - nor any kind of negative chant, for that matter -
was aimed at Slaven Bilic's predecessor as the Hammers secured three more
vital Premier League points against Allardyce's new club, Sunderland.
Instead, supporters used the occasion to mark their appreciation of Bilic's
regime by chanting HIS name on numerous occasions times during the match - a
gesture that was rarely if ever offered to the abrasive Allardyce.
(Excepting perhaps the 2012 play-off final when fans adapted ad hoc the
chorus of Coldplay's 'Paradise' to 'Alla, Alla, Alladyce'!)
West Ham - who with Bilic's guidance have been transformed into genuine
contenders for a European spot - struggled to get out of second gear against
their relegation-threatened opponents but still managed to grab a win thanks
to Michail Antonio's excellent first half strike, his fifth since joining
West Ham back in September.
And although they were on the backfoot for much of the second period,
Bilic's side did just about enough to keep the Black Cats at bay - although
it should be noted that West Ham also hit the woodwork twice (via Mark Noble
and Andy Carroll efforts) and had a very decent penalty appeal ignored by
referee Mike Dean.
Still, there was something quite ironic about winning this particular
fixture by one goal to nil, with a backs-to-the-wall ending; it could be
said that Bilic simply out-Allardyce'd Sam Allardyce!
The win takes West Ham back above Southampton and Manchester United into
fifth spot in the Premier League. And it's to the latter that the Hammers
will return for a second time this season for the quarter finals of the FA
Cup, the draw for which was made last Sunday following West Ham's 5-1 fifth
round demolition of Blackburn.
Allocated just shy of 10,000 tickets, West Ham sold their entire quota for
next month's tie at Old Trafford within 24 hours. Fans, thousands of whom
were left ticketless and disappointed genuinely believe that Bilic's team
have a genuine chance of reaching the semi finals this year - despite being
granted what would traditionally be perceived as one of the toughest away
draws.
Additionally, West Ham's FA Cup pedigree against the Red Devils is
impressive having beaten them at the fifth round (1986) and semi final
(1964) stages previously. And who can forget Paolo Di Canio scoring a
76th-minute, fourth round winner at Old Trafford in January 2001 as
goalkeeper Fabien Barthez hailed an imaginary taxi?
6 March
Last November a dreadful challenge by Everton's James McCarthy sidelined
West Ham's Dimitri Payet for the remainder of 2015.
So it was poetic justice when the brilliant Frenchman popped up inside the
Toffees' six-yard box during Saturday's return meeting between the two clubs
to score the winning goal, as West Ham recorded their first win on the Blue
side of Stanley Park since December 2005.
And what an incredible win it was for Slaven Bilic's side, who were two
goals behind with less than fifteen minutes of normal time remaining before
staging a remarkable comeback to steal all three points, courtesy of Payet's
last-minute winner.
Having fallen behind to strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon, Adrian
made a brilliant save from a (Lukaku) penalty to prevent West Ham from going
3-0 down - at which point the travelling fans must have been wondering
whether the early start had been worth it!
However their patience and endeavour was ultimately rewarded as West Ham
staged an epic comeback. Michail Antonio, prolific of late scored United's
first on 78 minutes, the returning Diafra Sakho levelled the game three
minutes later - and Payet - who else? - grabbed the winner, just as added-on
time commenced.
The victory - West Ham's third in a week, following the wins against
Sunderland and Tottenham - lifted Bilic's side back above Manchester United
into fourth place in the Premier League, thus keeping alive the Irons' hopes
of ending what is already a memorable campaign in a European position.
But which competition that will be in remains to be seen, with the Hammers
now presenting a very real threat to those clubs hoping to finish in the top
four and qualify for next season's Champions League.
Just three points separate West Ham and second-placed Arsenal, who drew at
Spurs on Saturday and whilst Bilic won't dare speak of it, a spot in
Europe's premier competition is certainly within reach. Unlikely still - but
who thought Leicester City would be title favourites in March!?
However all thoughts of Premier League success will be set aside for the
next week or so as attention returns to the FA Cup, where a tantalising
quarter final tie at Old Trafford awaits.
West Ham have enjoyed mixed FA Cup fortunes against Manchester United in
recent seasons. Few present on the day will forget Paolo Di Canio's winning
goal in a 2001, fourth round meeting; few who witnessed the Gary
Breen-inspired 6-0 defeat two years later will wish to remember it!
More recently, in a 2013 third round tie, the Hammers were seconds away from
securing a 2-1 win at the Boleyn Ground when Robin Van Persie grabbed a
last-minute equaliser, taking the tie back to Old Trafford for a replay -
which the hosts won 1-0.
But this is a very different West Ham team right now - and one that has
every chance of turning the tables and securing a place in this year's FA
Cup semi finals.
20 March
When both sets of players and managers agree that a player has been harshly
sent off, it's difficult to express sympathy with the referee. And when your
team had been the victim of a string of similarly-poor calls, it's perhaps
no surprise that conspiracy theories begin to emerge,
Only two people have been outspoken in their support of referee Mark
Clattenburg's decision to dismiss Cheik Kouyate for a robust but fair
challenge on Dwight Gayle during Saturday's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at
the Boleyn Ground.
One was MotD's commentator, whose view can be dismissed on the basis that he
claimed Kouyate went into the challenge two-footed and with studs showing -
which simply didn't happen. The other was pundit and ex-Arsenal star Ian
Wright, who face the Hammers in their next fixture - sans the influential
Kouyate, as it stands.
At the risk of beginning to sound like a broken record, Slaven Bilic's
frustration is entirely understandable. Robbed of an FA Cup semi final spot
at Old Trafford and two vital Premier League points at Stamford Bridge days
later thanks to dreadful decisions, West Ham's season is being affected -
negatively - by bad calls from officials.
And the myth which suggests these poor decisions even themselves out over
the course of the season is just that - a falsehood that simply has no
evidence to support it, yet plenty to suggest otherwise.
In order to determine how much teams are affected, over at Talksport they
have been compiling a list of incorrect decisions by referees throughout the
season. The aforementioned conspiracists won't be shocked to see the Hammers
bottom of this table, having received four incorrect calls in their favour
this term - and 11 against.
Conversely, the table is topped by Manchester United (eight for, one
against), Leicester (surprisingly perhaps with twelve for and seven against)
and then Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City.
So whilst it may be going too far to suggest the game is bent - even though
it has been claimed in recent days that a great number of Premier League
stars have been administered performance-enhancing drugs - it seems that
somehow, enough pressure is being exerted upon match officials to cause them
to award marginal decisions in favour of the league's elite clubs when push
comes to shove.
However the real shame about Kouyate's dismissal and Clattenburg's generally
awful performance is that it completely overshadowed another incredible free
kick by Dimitri Payet, who is probably the world's premier dead ball
specialist at this point in time.
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.
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Besiktas announce Tore deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Turkish club Besiktas have confirmed that Gokhan Tore has hald talks with
West Ham regarding a move to the Premier League. And that, say Turkish
sources, means only one thing - that the talented young winger is finally on
his way to the club. Kaan Bayakit, Editor of Besiktas International
explained why the Super Lig side made the statement. "Beşiktaş' announcement
that they have started the negotiations with West Ham United is common
protocol once a deal is has been struck," he wrote. "For those not familiar
with how Beşiktaş commonly do things, they usually don't report the
'negotiations' until an agreement has already been reached - so we can
therefore assume that Gökhan Töre will be a Hammer this coming season."
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Bacca talks set for next week
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham and Milan are reported to have reached an agreement regarding the
transfer of Carlos Bacca. The two clubs are understood to have agreed a fee
in the region of £25million for the 29-year-old Colombian international, who
is seeking a salary worth in the region of £75,000-per-week, according to
reports from Italy. And the two parties are set to meet early next week to
discuss a potential transfer for the former Brugge and Seville striker. West
Ham turned to Bacca after their plans to sign top targets Alexandre
Lacazette and Michy Batshuayi ended in failure; the former due to a lack of
interest in joining West Ham and the latter following Chelsea's late
intervention. 5'9" Bacca, who has thus far spent just one season in Italy
scored 20 goals for Milan last season in 43 appearances and five goals in 12
starts for his country.
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Hammers comment on Arsenal 'ban' stance
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have backed a new policy introduced by Arsenal which
promises to ban fans who post offensive messages via social media from the
Emirates. Earlier today it was revealed that Arsenal had begun banning fans
who use social media to post offensive or insulting messages from purchasing
match day tickets for home games. And the scheme has received a mixed
reception from West Ham fans responding to a KUMB twitter poll.
KUMB Podcast host Chris Scull was one of the first to respond in favour of
the new policy. "It's a good thing if implemented correctly and sensibly,"
he replied. "But we should still be allowed to call the odd player a
donkey!"
That view was supported by Joseph100200, who agreed that it was time for
"bedroom warriors" to be brought to task. "It's a good thing," he said.
"Stop people saying on their keyboards what they wouldn't say in the
street."
However Kuba Szerszen was one of those to disagree with the new policy, as
he felt it could be open to abuse by those interpreting it. "I think it's
dangerous as this tool may allow clubs to ban supporters for whatever
reason, for criticism etc," he said.
And Stuart Day believes that bans should only be introduced for certain
offences - and where there is no possibility of the wrong individual being
identified.
"If it's for racist comments then I can understand why they are looking at
it," he replied. "However you have to be 100 per cent certain before
punishing."
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 7 JULY 2016 AT 10:51PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
At the moment the Sullivan's are on holiday and so direct meetings with
David Sullivan are not able to happen at the moment but of course he will be
constantly on the phone trying to sort deals out.
Tore is close. It should happen tomorrow (I know I said this yesterday).
The deal has taken a lot of negotiating and it is still ongoing on the finer
details because of the complexity of the loan and then buy arrangements plus
wages. Jack Sullivan did say in three days, tomorrow will be the third day
so hopefully he will join tomorrow.
Bacca's agent in London. This is not true. The fee has not yet been agreed
with Milan, although it is getting closer and as I mentioned David Sullivan
isn't here at the moment so there would be no point in the agent travelling.
We do hope to conclude this signing within the next few weeks but there is
still a long way to go.
Young to join? This is not true. Whilst we are looking for a player who
could cover left back on loan, Young's wages are unlikely to make it him.
Young players: The club hope to complete at least one, possibly two, young
player signings by the end of next week. All of those names have been
reported on the site in previous articles.
Janssen to Spurs: It does seem that this is where he wishes to go and if
that is the case he can. He wasn't in the top five priority forwards but
someone that we had considered.
Calleri to join: This is a forward that we have monitored for a while and
someone who I have always thought could join on loan. Originally he wasn't
called up to the Argentina Olympic Squad but he has been drafted in now
which means the club may hold off the offer.
Benteke to hold talks with the club: It appears that we have lost interest
in signing the Belgium forward due to his wages and his agent being
difficult to work with.
Sakho transfer request: I cant confirm that he has handed in a transfer
request and I would like to think that it isn't true. One thing I will say
is that he isn't happy and there is a mystery around his "injuries" if we
can get the figures quoted in the press for him (which I very much doubt due
to his injuries) I would take it.
The club are not panicking at all and they know they will land many quality
players ahead. I trust them on this. Tomorrow I am meeting the legend that
is Trevor Brooking and I hope to have some quality answers to share with
you. We are also in the process of launching our forum. It would be great
to get your feedback on the columns that we write and to build up
discussions around the themes that myself and others will try to respond to.
Have a look on the site-we do not see this as a rival to some of the
excellent forums out there just a chance to build up some discussions around
our articles.
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Payet to represent West Ham in Euro 16 final
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be represented in the final of Euro 16 by French hero Dimitri
Payet, who helped his country to a 2-0 semi final win against Germany in
Marseille last night. Although he didn't scored during the game - that
particular honour falling to Atletico's Antoine Griezmann, who grabbed both
of the hosts' goals - Payet was a constant threat once again and was well
received by the home fans upon his substitution 19 minutes from time. The
victory helped set up a final clash this Sunday (10 July) against Portugal ,
whose run the the final - which took in matches against Iceland, Austria,
Hungary, Croatia and Wales - must rank as one of the least taxing in recent
national tournament history. And that will be one of the factors leading to
the French being strong favourites to lift the trophy in front of their own
supporters this weekend. West Ham's other representatives at Euro 16 have
all returned home; Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland were last 16
casualties against finalists France, whilst Angelo Ogbonna's Italy succumbed
to the Germans in a quarter final penalty shootout. The most unlikely
Hammers hero however was Welsh defender James Collins, who ended a
ridiculously-long season - lasting some 349 days - with a semi final
appearance against Portugal.
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Sakho hands in his notice
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 8th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request, according to reports. The
Senegal international, long rumoured to be set for the exit door this summer
was recently linked with a move to Sunderland and a reunion with former boss
Sam Allardyce. Those particular negotiations ended in an impasse with the
Black Cats unwilling to meet West Ham's terms for the former Metz striker,
since when West Bromwich Albion have expressed interest (to the extent of
offering Saido Berahino in exchange). And now Sakho - who didn't travel to
the US last week for the current two-match tour - has moved to speed up his
potential exit from West Ham by issuing a transfer request, according to a
report by Sky Sports. The 26-year-old was brought to England on Sam
Allardyce's watch in 2014, but made just 24 appearances for West Ham last
season (seven goals). He was considerably more effective during his first
season in England (2014/15) when he managed 12 goals from 26 appearances.
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 8 JULY 2016 AT 5:29PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
I have written this column early for two reasons. Firstly, Jack Sullivan
has tweeted something and the club's official Insider has also provided an
article which I can follow on from. Secondly, I am interviewing Trevor
Brooking later with SDCC for a new radio show that we are launching and will
be airing on the site. This one will be prerecorded but most will be live.
I am not a radio person and do not have the voice for it but I am sure it
will be an interesting listen. I will give more details later and we are
delighted to have a new forum on the site. Again, more info will come on
that.
Tore deal delayed: The deal is actually completed from all ends now. The
hold up is because of the Islamic festival of Eid. Turkey is a largely
Muslim country and everything stops for their biggest festival. The Turkish
administration offices and legal departments needed to make this deal final
are shut until Monday and this is the word from within the club. Whilst Tore
is in England it will explain why the deal cannot be finalised until the
departments reopen next week. Eid is not something that can be predicted
and depends on the position of the moon after the month of fasting (although
I am no expert). No one is able to predict when it will happen and
unfortunately it has fallen this week to delay this transfer. Rest assured
he will sign.
Bids in for forwards: As I regularly report in my columns, and despite
people saying I am throwing out as many names as possible, we do have lots
of bids in for forwards. I have regularly listed who they are and these are
all true. The figure is around ten player bids. Today we had a bid for Bacca
accepted by AC Milan. The club are keen to sign him and he is, at the
moment, the number one target. The problem is he has asked for huge wages
again. Many sites have been reported 60k a week, it is double that at £120k
a week plus bonuses. The club feel that these demands are too high and have
offered less and hope to meet him more in the middle. Should we offer him
£120k a week it would smash our wage structure and be way more than both
Andy Carroll (the highest paid player) and Payet (the most deserving).
Whilst the chairman has admitted he offered Tevez £150k a week, this could
be justified and like I said before it wasn't a recent offer despite what
has been reported elsewhere. This offer was months ago, before Payet had
signed his new deal. We therefore want Bacca to lower his demands and go
more clause based rather than having a high weekly salary. This is
especially needed given that he is unproven in England.
Wage Demands all round: Unfortunately all the forwards that we are after
have huge wage demands - another top target, Gomez, is the same.
Calleri: I have had it confirmed that the Argentina forward is a top target
and that the club are very disappointed that he has now been called into the
Olympic squad having not originally been accepted.
Sakho Transfer Request: It has also been confirmed that Sakho has put in a
transfer request. The club are not too concerned about this. We are really
worried about his injury record and think if he wants to move this could be
a good thing for the club. Unfortunately other clubs, namely Sunderland,
are also aware of the injury concerns and on that basis are offering a low
initial fee with much of it based on how many games he plays. WBA are also
interested but again, at the moment will only pay a small initial fee, so we
want to hold out for more. The bottom line is the player is unhappy and is
very likely to leave.
If any news breaks while I am out tonight I may be able to do a second
column. Many of you have spoken about ways that you may wish to help the
site grow further. This has meant a lot to me and so if you wish to do so I
promise it will all go on expanding what we do. Further details will
follow. Thank you.
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Julian Dicks says West Ham they are lucky to have Slaven Bilic
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United coach Julian Dicks says the club are lucky to have enigmatic
manager Slaven Bilic. The Hammers impressed fans and pundits alike by
mounting a serious challenge for the Champions League places last season. As
well as taking a number of notable scalps home and away, including a
historic treble over Liverpool, Bilic reinvigorated the East Londoners with
stars such as Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini helping rediscover the 'West
Ham way' once more. The Irons officially enjoyed their best ever season in
the Premier League era in terms of points and ended with a positive goal
difference for the first time in 30 years.
Bilic also masterminded a fitting and thrilling 3-2 comeback win over
Manchester United in the last ever game at Upton Park. And the club now
qualified for the Europa League despite two defeats in their last three
games seeing them drop from fifth to seventh by the season's end. The former
Croatia boss has since impressed a wider audience with his brilliant
displays as a pundit for ITV during Euro 2016. Listen, he's got something
about him' And Hammers legend Dicks, one of Bilic's former teammates and a
coach in his backroom team, told the club's official website they are lucky
to have him. "He is (as charasmatic and enigmatic in the changing room as he
is the TV studio), listen he's a good manager," Dicks told whufc.com.
"You've got Lee Dixon trumpeting him for the England job. Listen, he's got
something about him, I mean you don't see many people jump on the table in
the commentary in the Euros. "But that's him, he's very passionate, we know
that, I know that, the fans know that and to be honest I think West Ham are
lucky to have him." It is difficult to envisage a situation where Bilic
would want to leave West Ham for another job given the club's exciting move
to the 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium later this month.
Next season sees some of the world's top managerial talent go head-to-head
in the Premier League with the likes of Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen
Klopp and Antonio Conte in the mix. Bilic knows he has a job on his hands to
better last season's seventh place finish but one thing is for sure Hammers
fans wouldn't swap him for anyone at the moment.
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Carlos Bacca demands to match Dimitri Payet as West Ham's best-paid player
with Colombian holding out for £120,000-a-week
Carlos Bacca will meet West Ham representatives on Monday
29-year-old earns £60,000 per week at AC Milan as club's joint-top earner
Colombia striker is holding out for £120,000 with Atletico Madrid interested
West Ham expect to pay around £20million to sign the former Sevilla striker
By KIERAN GILL FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 8 July 2016 | UPDATED: 01:08, 9 July 2016
Carlos Bacca wants to become West Ham's best-paid player alongside Dimitri
Payet if he signs for them this summer. The AC Milan striker, 29, is in
talks with the club but he expects to double his wages to £120,000 per week.
Bacca earns £60,000 at Milan as the Italian club's joint-top earner. West
Ham expect to pay around £20million to sign the Colombia international but
his demands are steep. Champions League runners-up Atletico Madrid are also
in for Bacca and that has worked against Slaven Bilic's side, with the
player understood to have demanded more after learning of their interest. A
meeting between West Ham and Bacca is scheduled for Monday. The Hammers were
offered Robin van Persie but turned down the former Arsenal and Manchester
United striker - even though he is willing to take a pay cut. Fenerbahce are
prepared to sell the 32-year-old and Middlesbrough are also believed to have
been contacted. Van Persie earns £240,000 per week and scored 14 goals in 29
appearances in his first season in Turkey. West Ham could be a striker light
as Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request. The 26-year-old, subject
of an £11m bid from Sunderland last month, found his chances limited last
season.
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Turkish winger Gokhan Tore completes West Ham move, Besiktas president
confirms
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Besiktas have confirmed that Gokhan Tore has completed his loan move to West
Ham. As reported by Standard Sport earlier this week West Ham were confident
that they would complete a deal for the 24-year-old winger in the coming
days after lengthy negotiations with the Hammers boss Slaven Bilic's former
side. However Besiktas completed the signing of reinforcements on the right
flank earlier this month, bringing in Gokhan Gonul from Fenerbahce. And the
Istanbul giants have now confirmed in a statement to Turkey's stock exchange
that they have reached an agreement with West Ham. Speaking in a press
conference Besiktas president Fikret Orman confirmed: "We have loaned Gokhan
Tore to West Ham, they made an offer and it appealed to us. "We have a lot
of competition for a place on the right wing with Andreas Beck, Gokhan
Gonul, Kerim Frei, Ricardo Quaresma, Aras Ozbiliz and Olcay Sahan." Tore
will be West Ham's third summer signing, joining defensive midfielder Havard
Nordtveit and fellow winger Sofiane Feghouli, both of whom arrived on a free
transfer. West Ham's priority remains a striker, with Carlos Bacca the new
favourite to join in a £26million deal. Co-owner David Sullivan revealed
earlier this week that the club had failed in an ambitious deal for Carlos
Tevez, who demanded £250,000-a-week to return to the side he saved from
relegation during the 2006/07 season.
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West Ham table bid for Besiktas midfielder Atiba Hutchinson
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Friday, July 8, 2016
West Ham have submitted a a £3m bid for Besiktas midfielder Atiba
Hutchinson, the Turkish club's president has confirmed. Hammers manager
Slaven Bilic has recently admitted he is chasing the Canada international as
well as Gokhan Tore, having worked with both players during his tenure at
Besiktas. Tore is reportedly in London to complete a switch to the Olympic
Stadium but West Ham still have work to do if they are to prise Hutchinson
away from Istanbul. "I am going to have talks with Atiba Hutchinson," said
Besiktas chief Fikret Orman. "He has said he wants to move to England. West
Ham made a £3million offer but we want more for him. "As I said we will
decide his future after we hold talks."
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West Ham priced out of move for Napoli striker Manolo Gabbiadini
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Friday, July 8, 2016
Inter Milan and West Ham United are being priced out of a move for Napoli
striker Manolo Gabbiadini. The Italian struck nine goals in 30 games last
season but he is ready to leave in search of regular first-team football.
Stoke City were tracking the 24-year-old, but they have pulled out of the
race to leave Inter and West Ham fighting it out. However, according to
Gazzetta dello Sport, both clubs are currently being priced out of a move
for Gabbiadini. Napoli are holding out for a fee of £21m for their striker,
but West Ham are only willing to hand over £17m. Inter are also reluctant to
spend over £20m and a stalemate is on-going until someone budges on their
demands.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, July 8
Daily WHUFC News - 8th July 2016
Date set for new Stadium Premier League opener WHUFC.come
West Ham United's first ever Premier League game at the Club's magnificent new Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park against AFC Bournemouth will take place on Sunday 21 August at 4pm. The Cherries will visit east London a day later than originally scheduled after the fixture changes for August and September were announced. If you are not a Season Ticket Holder, becoming a Claret Member is the best way of giving yourself the chance to be there for the opening league game. Membership is priced at just £40 adults and £25 under-16s and gives you priority on tickets for matches at our new Stadium, saves you money on booking fees, gives access to exclusive retail offers, a gift pack and much more. Click here to become a Member now. Meanwhile, the Club's opening Premier League game – a mouthwatering London derby at Chelsea, will now be played on Monday 15 August with an 8pm kick-off.
Other matches to change dates in the opening two months of the season are the trip to Manchester City, which is now set for Sunday 28 August at 4pm and the home match against Southampton, scheduled for Sunday 25 September at 4pm.
Please note that the away match at Manchester United, due to be played on Saturday 26 November, will move dates when the broadcast selections for November are made, due to the Red Devils' involvement in the Group Stages of the UEFA Europa League.
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Bilic - Nobody was injured
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic explained that fitness was more important than performance following West Ham United's 3-0 US Tour defeat at Seattle Sounders. The Hammers created plenty of chances at CenturyLink Field, only for decisive finishing from American international forwards Herculez Gomez and Jordan Morris to make the difference in front of a 38,585-strong crowd.
With his players only returning to pre-season training on 30 June, Bilic openly admitted prior to the game that he was worried about their fitness, but thankfully all 21 who featured in the Pacific Northwest came through unscathed. "OK a game is a game and in every game the result is important, but basically we only started training a few days ago and we are in the process of hard training, so for me the most important thing was to get through without anyone being injured and make it a good training," the manager told the media at his post-match press conference. "It was maybe a bit too early to run long distances on a big pitch, so we tried to avoid those long distances by keeping a good shape and keeping the ball, but in the second half the game was stretched all over the pitch, which is excellent in the end if nobody gets injured. "Nobody got injured, so in that regard I am quite pleased, but of course the result tempered that. In the end, it was a good training exercise and we will gain fitness from this game."
West Ham may have been beaten, but there were reasons to be happy, not least the performances of debutants Sofiane Feghouli and Antonio Martinez, who both came within a whisker of opening their accounts. Bilic also paid tribute to the Sounders, who showed ability and determination to overcome an English Premier League side for the first time in their history.
Sigi Schmid's side may not be having their best season in the MLS, but the best-supported team in the United States still possess players of international class in the shape of Austria striker Andreas Ivanschitz, goalscorer and US attackers and goalscorers Herculez Gomez and Jordan Morris. "They are good team in a good championship, and by the end they were in better form and better shape," the manager observed. "They have got good players from Europe, from the Bundesliga, and of course they have Clint Dempsey, even if he didn't play. "They had players who were really up for it, like the striker who came on. He's a good player and their leading scorer from the left wing. They were a solid, compact team and this is the MLS and we expected it, to be fair."
Next up for the Hammers is the second and final fixture of the US Tour at NASL side Carolina RailHawks on Tuesday 12 July.
West Ham kick-off the Premier League season at Chelsea on Saturday 13 August.
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Payet set for semi-final showdown
WHUFC.com
They will be sharing the pitch in Marseille, and they even share a song, but one thing is for certain; there will be no love lost between Hammers star Dimitri Payet and Arsenal's Mesut Ozil on Thursday. The pair will come to blows in the second UEFA Euro 2016 semi-final when hosts France take on world champions Germany and both playmakers will be desperate to come out on top. The West Ham midfielder has starred in France since the first match of the tournament, scoring spectacularly on three occasions, while Ozil has been important cog in the powerful German machine. It would be the third time this season, should France conquer their German counterparts, that Payet has got the better of Ozil – the 29-year-old picked up the coveted London Footballer of the Year award in March ahead of the Gunners man. That came after Payet had helped the Hammers – in his first ever Premier League game – to victory over Arsene Wenger's side, containing Ozil, at the Emirates in August. Payet's stunner against Romania in the opening match at this summer's Euros cemented his position in Didier Deschamps' starting XI, and he hasn't let his boss down; crackers against Albania and in the 5-2 quarter-final thrashing of Iceland have ensured that. But it's fair to say France have not been properly tested yet. They breezed through knockout-round ties against the Republic of Ireland and Iceland and won two of their three group fixtures. There is no doubt, though, Germany will provide the test that the French have not yet faced; Joachim Low's team beat a strong Italian side in the quarter-final, albeit on penalties, and have conceded just one goal in the entire tournament so far. Ozil himself scored in the Italy tie, but France legend Bixente Lizarazu backed Hammer Payet to come out on top. He said: "Six months ago, Payet wasn't in the squad. It's incredible what he's done. He has played world-class games."
The winners of the eagerly-awaited clash will face Portugal, who beat James Collins' Wales 2-0 in the Lyon semi-final on Wednesday night
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New venue for Shrimpers' friendly
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad's friendly with Southend United will now take place at Great Wakering Rover FC's Burroughs Park ground. The pre-season fixture, set for 3pm on Saturday 23 July, was originally set for the Shrimper's Roots Hall stadium. The match is one of six pre-season friendlies that Terry Westley's U21 Premier League Cup champions will play before the start of the competitive calendar. Opening their pre-season preparations with an away fixture with Chelmsford City on Friday 15 July, the young Hammers will also face Peterborough United, FC Eindhoven, VVV Venlo and Chelsea U21. Make sure you check whufc.com and follow our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages for exclusive features, information and match coverage of all the Development Squad's fixtures.
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Nobes – It was a good workout
WHUFC.com
Despite defeat for the Hammers against Seattle Sounders in their opening pre-season fixture, Club captain Mark Noble confirmed that the clash was a good workout. Slaven Bilic's side were beaten 3-0 by the MLS outfit, as two goals from Jordan Morris came after Herculez Gomez had given Sounders a first half lead. The Hammers, who were facing Seattle after just two days back in training, lined up with wholly different selections in both periods, as Bilic made ten changes at the break. But Noble, who was West Ham's first half skipper, claimed the match was a useful tie for the players as they look to build their fitness ahead of the 2016/17 season. He said: "It's good for us to come here at this time of the year because the MLS are already mid-season. They're really fit and game-ready and we've only had two days training after six weeks' holiday. To be fair, we knew it would be tough, as we've had only two days training but it was a great workout for us and we can't thank Seattle enough for putting on a game for us. "I've never played a game on astroturf like that before either, but it seemed really soft and the game wasn't too strenuous. We only played 45 minutes at a slow tempo, so it will have done no harm."
Many promising youngsters were included for the tour to the US, and names such as Moses Makasi, Reece Burke, Lewis Page and Marcus Browne were involved at CenturyLink Field while Sofiane Feghouli, Havard Nordtveit, Toni Martinez and Domingos Quina all pulled on a West Ham shirt for the first time. And Noble, who came through the Club's Academy himself, explained how important this experience could be for the Hammers' hot young prospects. "It's really exciting for a lot of younger boys who haven't been to anything like this before," he continued. "It's of massive value. "I've been there and done it before but for the young lads, it's great. When you go to Old Trafford and the Emirates, there are 80,000 or 60,000 fans there and these are the sorts of atmospheres they want to be playing in, so these experiences are great. "Seattle is an amazing place, so we're all very lucky for this trip. I've always wanted to come on a pre-season somewhere like this."
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Lanzini named in Argentina Olympic squad WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's squad for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Lanzini, who has previously been capped at U20 level by his country, will link up with the U23 selection as Argentina go for Gold in Brazil. Argentina have a proud record at the Olympic Games, having won Gold twice and Silver twice from their seven participations. They have been triumphant on their last two appearances – in Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008. Lanzini made his move to the Hammers permanent this summer following a superb season on loan from UAE side Al-Jazira Club and will now hope to shine for his country on the Olympic stage. He joins four other European based players in Julio Olarticoechea's squad, alongside Real Sociedad goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, Joaquin Correa of Sampdoria and Atletico Madrid duo Angel Correa and Luciano Vietto. Argentina's campaign gets underway against Portugal on 4 August, with further group games against Algeria and Honduras to follow. Lanzini will become the second Olympian in the Hammers' squad, after Cheikhou Kouyate represented Senegal in the 2012 London Games.
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Lacazette price rises again
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's key summer transfer target Alexandre Lacazette is likely to cost any potential suitors up to €60million, say reports from France. With Lacazette's current club Lyon needing to sell in order to balance the books at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais it was thought that West Ham were in pole position to sign the 5'9" forward. However with Les Gones having sold Sameul Umtiti to Barcelona for a fee in the region of €30million last week, that shortfall has all but disappeared - meaning Lyon can hold out for even more than the €50million price West Ham had been quoted, say GFFN. With a number of parties still interested in signing the 25-year-old, West Ham are unlikely to make an improved bid - as things stand. And that could allow current favourites, Ligue 1 champions Paris St Germain, to complete a deal for a player who has always been reluctant to express a desire for a summer move to England, despite West Ham's overtures.
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A quite extraordinary season
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
James Collins' long and arduous season finally came to an end in Lyon last night - 349 days after it began in Malta. West Ham United's experienced central defender, who celebrates his 33rd birthday next month, would almost certainly have laughed in your face had you told him he'd end the campaign playing in the semi finals of Euro 16. But that's exactly how it transpired with Collins, sporting his now famous, fiery red beard playing a starring role in Wales' 2-0 defeat against Portugal in last night's last four encounter with Christiano Ronaldo & Co. The season started in inconspicuous fashion for Collins way back on 23 July 2015, with West Ham needing penalties to see off the challenge of Maltese outfit Birkirkara in the second qualifying round of the Europa League.
However his - and West Ham's - Europa League journey was to end in disappointing fashion; the defender received his marching order's in a 2-2 first leg draw at the Boleyn Ground before the Hammers succumbed 2-1 in the reverse leg in Romania. Having finally received assurances that the club wished to retain his services, following much speculation regarding his future, Collins starred in West Ham's 2-1 win at Manchester City in September. However that was to be his only Premier League appearance until the Hammers drew 2-2 at Sunderland at the start of October, when he began to play a greater role in the first team. Although he was dismissed in a 2-0 defeat at Watford in October, Ginge was a regular in Slaven Bilic's side up until the beginning of March when he sustained a hamstring injury during the 1-0 win over Tottenham. Collins would play only one more time for the Hammers before the end of the league campaign - a 3-1 win over Watford in April - but he was back in action for Wales in a pre-Euro 16 friendly against Sweden on 5 June.
And having had to wait patiently for an opportunity - much as he had at his club earlier in the season - the Newport-born star came off the bench to feature in Wales' stunning 3-1 win over Belgium in the quarter finals before making his first start of the tournament in last night's defeat to Portugal.
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Janssen snubs hijack bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
AZ Alkmaar striker Vincent Janssen rejected a late swoop by West Ham to steal him from under the noses of local rivals Tottenham. According to Darren Lewis, writing for the Mirror, the 21-year-old is set to complete a £17million switch to White Hart Lane "within days". However it is also claimed that West Ham made an eleventh-hour bid to gazump Janssen's move to north London - an offer rejected by the player who is reported to have already accepted Tottenham's offer.
Janssen is just the latest in a long line of summer transfer targets that West Ham have failed to land. Michy Batshuayi, one of the club's top targets signed for Chelsea last week whilst right-back Thomas Meunier rejected a move to the Olympic Stadium in favour of joining Ligue 1 champions Paris St Germain. Meanwhile David Sullivan and his team are no closdser to landing the mythical '20-goals-a-season' striker than back in May, when the club's co-owner revealed he had make a £25million bid for Leicester and England forward Jamie Vardy (who has since singed a new contract with the Foxes).
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Valencia close to Lazio switch
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Enner Valencia is on the verge of completing a move to Serie A side Lazio, according to reports from Italy. The Italian side, now under the watchful eye of West Ham's post-Allardyce mangerial candidate Marcelo Bielsa are understood to be close to agreeing a deal to take the Ecuador international on loan for the season. David Amoyal, writing for gianlucadimarzio.com claims that Lazio hope to conclude a deal for Valencia by this weekend, with the striker set to move to the Stadio Olimpico on loan with an option to buy at the end of the 2016/17 campaign. West Ham signed Valencia from Mexican Liga MX side Pachuca two years ago this month in a deal worth in the region of £12million.
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No fairytale ending as Tevez shuns huge contract offer KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Half-a-season wonder Carlos Tevez has spurned the opportunity to return to West Ham, it has been revealed. The former Argentine international, who spent one season at West Ham (2006/07) has turned down a £7.5million offer to return to the club having told the club he wanted closer to £250,000-per-week. And that prompted an angry David Sullivan to lash out at the player who scored seven goals for the club in his previous spell. "All this business about 'I love West Ham'? Well, it's 'I love West Ham but only if they give me 250 grand a week'," he told a tabloid newspaper. "I offered him 150 grand a week to come back plus bonuses. I thought that was an incredible offer for someone who loves West Ham. It was also a huge gamble for us because he's 33 now and hasn't done it in South America. "I was hoping he would reproduce what he did at Juventus a year ago. He was a fantastic player," added Sullivan. "But where do you draw the line with what you are prepared to pay? "We tried to get him but he wanted £250,000 a week. In his last year at Juventus he was great. But 250 grand a week? Come on. He'll probably stay where he is now, because he doesn't pay a lot of tax down there."
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West Ham striker Diafra Sakho hands in transfer request By Peter Gilbert Last Updated: 07/07/16 9:21pm
Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request at West Ham, according to Sky sources. The striker was the subject of a failed £11m bid from Sunderland last month. Black Cats manager Sam Allardyce brought the Senegal international to Upton Park from Metz in 2014 when he was in charge of the Hammers. The 26-year-old joined on a four-year contract and has scored 15 goals in 43 Premier League matches for the club. West Brom are reportedly interested in Sakho, who complained of illness and stayed in the UK when the rest of the West Ham squad flew to the US for their pre-season tour at the weekend. The forward, who reportedly fell out with the club in April after being named on the bench, has grown further unsettled due to West Ham admitting they want to sign a big-name striker.
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Gokhan Tore to join West Ham on season-long loan – Sky sources By Sky Sports News HQ Last Updated: 07/07/16 7:10am SSN
West Ham have agreed a deal to sign winger Gokhan Tore from Besiktas, according to Sky sources. Tore will join West Ham on a season-long loan and Sky sources understand the Hammers have the option to make the move permanent for a fee in the region of £10m. He will become manager Slaven Bilic's fifth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Sofiane Feghouli, Toni Martinez, Havard Nordtveit and Domingos Quina. Bilic has been tracking Tore since the end of last season and failed with a bid to sign the 24-year-old on loan in June. But after West Ham successfully negotiated fresh terms with the Turkish champions, Bilic will be able to call upon Tore for the 2016/17 season. Tore, capped 26 times by Turkey, joined Besiktas from Rubin Kazan in 2013 and played under Bilic for two seasons at the club. He made 24 league appearances and scored four times last season as Besiktas claimed their first Super Lig title in seven years.
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Manuel Lanzini to miss West Ham's start after Olympics call-up By Stephen Turner Last Updated: 07/07/16 9:18am SSN
Manuel Lanzini will miss the start of the Premier League season after he was named in Argentina's Olympic Games squad. The West Ham midfielder has been confirmed in an 18-man squad for the tournament, which runs from August 4-20 in Rio de Janeiro. And that schedule rules him out of an opening trip to Chelsea and West Ham's first game at their new Olympic Stadium home the following weekend. Lanzini enjoyed a successful first season in the Premier League after joining the Hammers on an initial loan deal from United Arab Emirates club Al Jazira. The 23-year-old scored six goals in 23 league starts and joined the club permanently in March on a four-year contract. Argentina won gold at the Olympics in 2004 and 2008, but Mexico will go to Rio as defending champions following their success in London four years ago.
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Slaven Bilic hopes Dimitri Payet will stay at West Ham By Nick Lustig Last Updated: 07/07/16 10:12am SSN
Slaven Bilic say he would love to keep Dimitri Payet at West Ham, but concedes the "giant clubs" may come in for him following his exploits at Euro 2016. Payet has been one of the stars of the tournament, producing a number of dazzling displays to help France reach the semi-finals, where they will face Germany at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille on Thursday.
Chelsea, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have since been linked in the national press with moves for the 29-year-old, with figures quoted as high as £60m. Payet joined West Ham from Marseille last summer for an initial £10.75m and enjoyed a sensational debut campaign in England, scoring 12 goals and providing 12 assists. He signed a new five-and-a-half year deal in January and Bilic remains hopeful he will be able to call upon his star man at the Olympic Stadium next season. "As a club manager, when you have a player involved there is added interest and there is no doubt Dimitri Payet has been one of the stars of the tournament," Bilic said in his column for the Daily Mail. "I understand that with his success, all the speculation about his future will follow. I have even seen one report suggesting I don't want him to do well in case it leads to him leaving West Ham. "That is not right. I want him to play great. I want him to score a hat-trick and another hat-trick in the final. "I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham. We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player."
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West Ham striker Diafra Sakho hands in transfer request as Senegalese searches for regular first team football next season West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has expressed his intent to leave the club Senegalese handed in a transfer request after limited game time last term Hammers boss Slaven Bilic has targeted AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce made £11million bid for Sakho last month By SIMON JONES FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 20:45, 7 July 2016 | UPDATED: 20:45, 7 July 2016
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request. The 26-year old was the subject of an £11million bid from Sunderland last month but manager Sam Allardyce is considering switching attention to Lorient forward Benjamin Moukandjo. Slaven Bilic has made signing a striker his No 1 priority this summer, with the Hammers manager stepping up his interest in AC Milan front man Carlos Bacca. Bacca has a £25.4m release clause, but Milan are ready to consider offers for lower that amount. The East London club are working on a deal to bring the Colombia forward to the Olympic Stadium ahead of the new season. But Sakho's future appears to lie away elsewhere, with Sunderland among the clubs to have now been put on red alert by the former Metz striker's availability. Allardyce is looking to strengthen the Sunderland squad after narrowly avoiding the drop last campaign is familiar with Sakho from his time as West Ham boss. Sakho finished top goalscorer in his first season at Upton Park, netting 12 goals in 26 games, but he found his first-team opportunities limited last term, scoring just five times in 21 league outings. West Ham are currently out in the US to continue their pre-season preparations, but Sakho is not part of the 22-man squad and could join James Tomkins in heading for the exit after the defender joined Crystal Palace this week.
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West Ham transfer news: David Sullivan attacks Carlos Tevez's 'love' for the club after £250,000 wage demand Jack de Menezes The Independent
West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has questioned Carlos Tevez's "love" of the Premier League club after a possible return fell through when the striker demanded £250,000-a-week to move back to the Premier League. 32-year-old Tevez currently turns out for Boca Juniors in Argentina after leaving Juventus last season, but he remains a sought-after payer that Sullivan believed could be lured back to West Ham, nine years after leaving East London. Sullivan and West Ham co-chairman David Gold are determined to bring in a high profile striker to crown the move to the Olympic Stadium and pus the side on next season, although bids for Jamie Vardy, Alexandre Lacazette, Michy Batshuayi and Christian Benteke have so far proven unsuccessful.
Tevez's name can now be added to that list, with the Argentina international likely to stay with Boca Juniors after demanding a quarter of a million pounds to join the club, leading to Sullivan launching an attack on his claim to "love" the Premier League club. Sullivan said: "All this business, 'I love West Ham', well it's 'I love West Ham if they give me £250,000 a week.'" He also revealed that West Ham's offer to Tevez would have made him the highest paid player at the club, with the £150,000-a-week salary significantly more than the club's current highest paid player in Dimitri Payet. "So how much love is that for West Ham? I actually offered him £150,000-a-week to come back plus bonuses," Sullivan added. "I thought that was an incredible offer for someone who loves West Ham. And it was a huge gamble for us because he's 33 now and hasn't done it in South America.
"We tried to get Tevez but he wanted £250,000-a-week – and is he past his best? He hasn't set the world alight in South America."
In fact, Tevez does not turn 33 until 5 February next year, and his record in Argentina since his return last year stands at nine goals in 17 matches – the same as West Ham's top goalscorers last season in Payet and Andy Carroll who achieved the feat in 30 and 27 appearances respectively. Tevez also departed Juventus having scored an impressive 29 goals in 49 matches for Juventus, although he was left out of Argentina's squad for the Copa America campaign last month. He remains a firm fan favourite among the Hammers faithful after his goal against Manchester United on the final day of the 2006/07 season kept the club in the Premier League.
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Dimitri Payet texts Slaven Bilic to say he is happy at West Ham despite Real Madrid transfer rumours Simon Osborn for Metro.co.uk Thursday 7 Jul 2016 11:12 am
Slaven Bilic says Dimitri Payet has text him to say he is happy at West Ham despite rumoured interest from Real Madrid. The Hammers' midfielder has been one of the stars of Euro 2016 but his form has led to speculation linking him with a move away from the Olympic Stadium. However, Bilic says he is confident the club will be able to hold onto their prized asset. 'I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham,' he said. 'We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player. 'As a club manager, when you have a player involved there is added interest and there is no doubt Dimitri Payet has been one of the stars of the tournament.
'I understand that with his success, all the speculation about his future will follow.' Bilic also scoffed at reports that it is in West Ham's best interests for Payet to flop against Germany tonight, as a poor performance on the biggest stage may make it less likely he would attract offers in the coming weeks. 'I have seen one report suggesting I don't want him to do well in case it leads to him leaving West Ham,' explained Bilic. 'That is not right. I want him to play great. I want him to score a hat-trick and another hat-trick in the final. 'The great thing for him is that he has maintained his high level of performance, which is really difficult when you play at the top level.'
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POYET: NOBLE BRILLIANT WITH THE YOUNGSTERS ANDY KOSTKA readwestham.com
West Ham's American Tour is an excellent opportunity for academy stars to prove their worth for the first team. With the likes of Dimitri Payet and Angelo Ogbonna not with the Hammers as they compete in the Euros, more minutes are available for West Ham's academy. That being said, the jump from the developmental squad to the first team can be difficult to grasp at first. During Tuesday evening's 3-0 defeat to the Seattle Sounders, ten academy players featured, including Toni Martinez, Marcus Browne, and Martin Samuelsen.
However, according to Diego Poyet, the transition is eased by the experienced players at West Ham, particularly captain Mark Noble. "There's obviously a lot of players away. They've been in the Copa America or the Euros. There's experienced first team players like you said that are here. They make it very easy for the young players to feel comfortable, and feel at home. They integrate them into the group really well, in training every day," Poyet told ReadWestHam after the Sounders match. "Mark, especially Noble, the captain, he's brilliant with the youngsters. He came through the ranks here at this club so I think he is brilliant for the young players coming through."
Noble's rise to the captain's armband at West Ham started in 2000, when he joined West Ham's youth academy. His career progression is one West Ham's young stars will surely dream of copying. Noble remains the youngest player to feature in a West Ham's reserve match, aged 15. At 17, he made his first team debut. The following season, 2005, Noble won the Young Hammer of the Year award, and has been a key part of the West Ham squad since 2007.
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Vincent Janssen rejects late attempt from West Ham to hijack his £17million move to Tottenham 13:00, 7 JUL 2016 UPDATED 13:27, 7 JUL 2016 BY DARREN LEWIS The Dutch striker, 21, will sign for the north Londoners and is set to have his transfer from AZ Alkmaar confirmed within days The Mirror
Vincent Janssen has rejected a late bid from West Ham to hijack his £17million move to Spurs. The Dutch striker, 21, will sign for the north Londoners and is set to have his transfer from AZ Alkmaar confirmed within days. West Ham offered a higher transfer fee and bigger wages in an attempt to steal Janssen from under the noses of their London rivals.
But Janssen, who had also rejected an approach from French champions PSG, was insistent that Tottenham were the only club that he wanted to join. The Holland marksman netted 27 times in 34 appearances for Alkmaar last season. He has also scored in three of his last four games for this country. Mirror Sport revealed last month that Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino had moved to make him the first of his striking reinforcements after two seasons relying on England frontman Harry Kane. Janssen travelled to London to hold talks and agreed terms but, after leading Spurs to believe a £12million deal would be straightforward, Alkmaar hiked up the price, instead demanding £17million. Spurs are now deciding whether to meet Newcastle's £25million asking price for attacking midfielder Gigi Wijnaldum.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic: I know big clubs want Dimitri Payet, but he's staying By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT Thursday, July 7, 2016
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic has conceded big clubs are interested in Dimitri Payet, but is certain the Hammers' talismanic midfielder WILL remain at the club. Payet has impressed on international duty for France at Euro 2016, picking up from where he left off for West Ham last season. A stand-out star whose free-kicks and creative play made him one of the Premier League's most exciting players and has led to interest from Europe's elite clubs. But Bilic is convinced Payet will be lining up in the famous Claret and Blue as the east Londoners begin a new era at the Olympic Stadium. Bilic told the Daily Mail: "I understand that with his success, all the speculation about his future will follow. "I have even seen one report suggesting I don't want him to do well in case it leads to him leaving West Ham. That is not right. I want him to play great. I want him to score a hat-trick and another hat-trick in the final. "I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham. We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player."
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West Ham open talks with AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca ahead of potential £20m move as Gokhan Tore loan deal nears completion West Ham open talks with AC Milan's Colombian striker Carlos Bacca Hammers willing to pay £20m for the striker who has £24.5m release clause Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore is close to a loan move to Slaven Bilic's side Tore's loan deal will include an option for a permanent move next summer Carlos Tevez turned down a potential return to former club West Ham By KIERAN GILL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:49, 7 July 2016 | UPDATED: 09:58, 7 July 2016
West Ham have opened talks to sign Carlos Bacca from AC Milan and will meet with the player's representatives this week. The Hammers know they need to sign a striker this summer and the Colombia international is a top target. They are willing to pay around £20million, with Slaven Bilic wanting to get his transfer business done as soon as possible. Bacca's release clause stands at £25.4m but Milan are ready to sell, and talks over a transfer are to be held at a meeting in London on Friday.
The 29-year-old is not the only star that West Ham could sign in the next week. The club are also set to snap up Turkey international Gokhan Tore on a loan deal with the option to buy at the end of the season.
CARLOS BACCA'S CAREER HISTORY
2006-11: Atletico Junior - 108 games, 50 goals
2012-13: Club Brugge - 50 games, 29 goals
2013-15: Sevilla - 103 games, 46 goals
2015-: AC Milan - 43 games, 20 goals
A medical was already pencilled in for the 24-year-old and the move for the Besiktas winger could be confirmed within the next seven days if all goes well. West Ham's search for firepower has also seen them talk to former striker Carlos Tevez, with co-owner David Sullivan revealing he offered the forward £150,000 a week to return to the club he helped save from relegation in 2007. The move would have seen Tevez become the club's highest earner, beating Dimitri Payet's £100,000 a week, but Sullivan said the Argentine wanted £250,000 to return to England from Boca Juniors.
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A Classy Exit From A Classy Player
By Stuart Plant on July 7, 2016 in Opinion, Transfer News
Over the last few weeks we had been faced with the prospect of James Tomkins leaving the club, this week saw this rumour move from transfer talk into the real world. Tomkins has left his club for pastures new across London with Crystal Palace, for a fee believed to be £10million, with add-ons included on top of that.
The majority of fans (myself included!) reacted negatively, he's been at the club since he was 7 years old, he's one of our best Academy graduates of the most recent few to break through and embodies what many see the club as. However, when you look at the situation as a whole, the move away unfortunately makes perfect sense.
At the age of 27 and approaching his 'prime' for footballer, vying for a starting berth against a right winger to play first team football at RB, is not what he would be wishing for, but it's the prospect he was faced with last season. With a plethora of top quality CB's at the club in; Winston Reid, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins it's easy to see why Bilic would want to utilise Tomkins at RB. If this wasn't a competitive enough position for him to find himself in, the emergence of both Reece Oxford and Reece Burke for the CB role has probably been the tipping point for Tomkins.
I still remember the hype surrounding Tomkins as he was making his way to breaking through, and, I just as equally remember him getting given the absolute run around by Yakubu on his first (I believe?) start. Consistently too close, turned far too often, and in general had nothing to combat the experience Yakubu. It seemed like a real facepalm moment, but, if anything in hindsight it was the perfect storm of start to Premier League life for him. You come back to now and Tomkins is a completely different player; good in the tackle, on the ball, in the air and not prone to many individual errors as some of our other CBs. Plus, he doesn't have that ridiculous hair he did when he broke through, so that's another positive!
Far too often when a player is unhappy with their playing time, we find out via stories of unrest, unhappiness and displeasure being leaked to the papers, etc. Not from Tomkins. He has acted like an absolute professional in this, and, it is quite clear in my mind at least that this is because he didnt want to leave. I'm not saying he was forced to, I'm saying that he left purely for professional reasons – he is a footballer, he wants to play football at CB as regularly as possible and Crystal Palace can give him that. Should he have settled for playing 3rd fiddle? Possibly not getting a look in at CB ahead of two youngsters? Instead focused on nailing down the RB slot ahead of a winger? No way.
Instead he has asked privately to leave, the wish has been listened to and accepted when Palace came calling. He gave his touching leaving words, as did the players none more so than his friend of two decades Mark Noble. Then, came the rather glum looking photos from his reveal as a Palace player, and that very awkward Palace site interview. The club and James Tomkins as a whole should be commended for how well this has been done, I just wish there was a way hadn't had to leave. But, it was his decision, and besides which, it's blindingly clear he's always going to love the club.
Despite it being heartbreaking to see someone who we thought would be another Academy graduate turned one-club-man leave, everything adds up. Yes, I'm talking financially now! When is the last time we made a significant profit on a player? When is the last time we sold an Academy graduate for a substantial fee? When is the last time we could sell a reserve player for anything near £10million? Yes, the fee is inflated because of his age and nationality, but, it's also because he is a damn good defender. The fact we are more than able to allow him to leave says more about the way our squad is shaping up.
If Tomkins goes on to be reunited with Pardew and progress his career then it's a success. If we use the transfer fee to get players in who are going to be in the first XI then it's a success. Finally, if we have sold him for an inflated fee then get him back in a Collins-esque scenario, then it will definitely be, a success!
All the best Tonks.
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Leeds United sign former England and West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Championship side Leeds United have completed the signing of former England international goalkeeper Robert Green. The 36-year-old, who was released by QPR at the end of last season, has signed a one-year deal with Garry Monk's Championship side. Leeds become Green's fourth club, after making over 200 appearances for both Norwich and West Ham before joining QPR in 2012. Green told his new side's website: "This is one of those opportunities where the first phone call asking if you want to come and play for Leeds is a very quick one. It was a 'yes' straightaway. "I'm thrilled to be here. I've spoken to the manager and I know what he's got in store and what he's planning." Green follows Monk's summer signings in Kyle Bartley, Sporting Lisbon forward Hadi Sacko and Swedish striker Marcus Antonsson to Elland Road.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
West Ham United's first ever Premier League game at the Club's magnificent new Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park against AFC Bournemouth will take place on Sunday 21 August at 4pm. The Cherries will visit east London a day later than originally scheduled after the fixture changes for August and September were announced. If you are not a Season Ticket Holder, becoming a Claret Member is the best way of giving yourself the chance to be there for the opening league game. Membership is priced at just £40 adults and £25 under-16s and gives you priority on tickets for matches at our new Stadium, saves you money on booking fees, gives access to exclusive retail offers, a gift pack and much more. Click here to become a Member now. Meanwhile, the Club's opening Premier League game – a mouthwatering London derby at Chelsea, will now be played on Monday 15 August with an 8pm kick-off.
Other matches to change dates in the opening two months of the season are the trip to Manchester City, which is now set for Sunday 28 August at 4pm and the home match against Southampton, scheduled for Sunday 25 September at 4pm.
Please note that the away match at Manchester United, due to be played on Saturday 26 November, will move dates when the broadcast selections for November are made, due to the Red Devils' involvement in the Group Stages of the UEFA Europa League.
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Bilic - Nobody was injured
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic explained that fitness was more important than performance following West Ham United's 3-0 US Tour defeat at Seattle Sounders. The Hammers created plenty of chances at CenturyLink Field, only for decisive finishing from American international forwards Herculez Gomez and Jordan Morris to make the difference in front of a 38,585-strong crowd.
With his players only returning to pre-season training on 30 June, Bilic openly admitted prior to the game that he was worried about their fitness, but thankfully all 21 who featured in the Pacific Northwest came through unscathed. "OK a game is a game and in every game the result is important, but basically we only started training a few days ago and we are in the process of hard training, so for me the most important thing was to get through without anyone being injured and make it a good training," the manager told the media at his post-match press conference. "It was maybe a bit too early to run long distances on a big pitch, so we tried to avoid those long distances by keeping a good shape and keeping the ball, but in the second half the game was stretched all over the pitch, which is excellent in the end if nobody gets injured. "Nobody got injured, so in that regard I am quite pleased, but of course the result tempered that. In the end, it was a good training exercise and we will gain fitness from this game."
West Ham may have been beaten, but there were reasons to be happy, not least the performances of debutants Sofiane Feghouli and Antonio Martinez, who both came within a whisker of opening their accounts. Bilic also paid tribute to the Sounders, who showed ability and determination to overcome an English Premier League side for the first time in their history.
Sigi Schmid's side may not be having their best season in the MLS, but the best-supported team in the United States still possess players of international class in the shape of Austria striker Andreas Ivanschitz, goalscorer and US attackers and goalscorers Herculez Gomez and Jordan Morris. "They are good team in a good championship, and by the end they were in better form and better shape," the manager observed. "They have got good players from Europe, from the Bundesliga, and of course they have Clint Dempsey, even if he didn't play. "They had players who were really up for it, like the striker who came on. He's a good player and their leading scorer from the left wing. They were a solid, compact team and this is the MLS and we expected it, to be fair."
Next up for the Hammers is the second and final fixture of the US Tour at NASL side Carolina RailHawks on Tuesday 12 July.
West Ham kick-off the Premier League season at Chelsea on Saturday 13 August.
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Payet set for semi-final showdown
WHUFC.com
They will be sharing the pitch in Marseille, and they even share a song, but one thing is for certain; there will be no love lost between Hammers star Dimitri Payet and Arsenal's Mesut Ozil on Thursday. The pair will come to blows in the second UEFA Euro 2016 semi-final when hosts France take on world champions Germany and both playmakers will be desperate to come out on top. The West Ham midfielder has starred in France since the first match of the tournament, scoring spectacularly on three occasions, while Ozil has been important cog in the powerful German machine. It would be the third time this season, should France conquer their German counterparts, that Payet has got the better of Ozil – the 29-year-old picked up the coveted London Footballer of the Year award in March ahead of the Gunners man. That came after Payet had helped the Hammers – in his first ever Premier League game – to victory over Arsene Wenger's side, containing Ozil, at the Emirates in August. Payet's stunner against Romania in the opening match at this summer's Euros cemented his position in Didier Deschamps' starting XI, and he hasn't let his boss down; crackers against Albania and in the 5-2 quarter-final thrashing of Iceland have ensured that. But it's fair to say France have not been properly tested yet. They breezed through knockout-round ties against the Republic of Ireland and Iceland and won two of their three group fixtures. There is no doubt, though, Germany will provide the test that the French have not yet faced; Joachim Low's team beat a strong Italian side in the quarter-final, albeit on penalties, and have conceded just one goal in the entire tournament so far. Ozil himself scored in the Italy tie, but France legend Bixente Lizarazu backed Hammer Payet to come out on top. He said: "Six months ago, Payet wasn't in the squad. It's incredible what he's done. He has played world-class games."
The winners of the eagerly-awaited clash will face Portugal, who beat James Collins' Wales 2-0 in the Lyon semi-final on Wednesday night
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New venue for Shrimpers' friendly
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad's friendly with Southend United will now take place at Great Wakering Rover FC's Burroughs Park ground. The pre-season fixture, set for 3pm on Saturday 23 July, was originally set for the Shrimper's Roots Hall stadium. The match is one of six pre-season friendlies that Terry Westley's U21 Premier League Cup champions will play before the start of the competitive calendar. Opening their pre-season preparations with an away fixture with Chelmsford City on Friday 15 July, the young Hammers will also face Peterborough United, FC Eindhoven, VVV Venlo and Chelsea U21. Make sure you check whufc.com and follow our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages for exclusive features, information and match coverage of all the Development Squad's fixtures.
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Nobes – It was a good workout
WHUFC.com
Despite defeat for the Hammers against Seattle Sounders in their opening pre-season fixture, Club captain Mark Noble confirmed that the clash was a good workout. Slaven Bilic's side were beaten 3-0 by the MLS outfit, as two goals from Jordan Morris came after Herculez Gomez had given Sounders a first half lead. The Hammers, who were facing Seattle after just two days back in training, lined up with wholly different selections in both periods, as Bilic made ten changes at the break. But Noble, who was West Ham's first half skipper, claimed the match was a useful tie for the players as they look to build their fitness ahead of the 2016/17 season. He said: "It's good for us to come here at this time of the year because the MLS are already mid-season. They're really fit and game-ready and we've only had two days training after six weeks' holiday. To be fair, we knew it would be tough, as we've had only two days training but it was a great workout for us and we can't thank Seattle enough for putting on a game for us. "I've never played a game on astroturf like that before either, but it seemed really soft and the game wasn't too strenuous. We only played 45 minutes at a slow tempo, so it will have done no harm."
Many promising youngsters were included for the tour to the US, and names such as Moses Makasi, Reece Burke, Lewis Page and Marcus Browne were involved at CenturyLink Field while Sofiane Feghouli, Havard Nordtveit, Toni Martinez and Domingos Quina all pulled on a West Ham shirt for the first time. And Noble, who came through the Club's Academy himself, explained how important this experience could be for the Hammers' hot young prospects. "It's really exciting for a lot of younger boys who haven't been to anything like this before," he continued. "It's of massive value. "I've been there and done it before but for the young lads, it's great. When you go to Old Trafford and the Emirates, there are 80,000 or 60,000 fans there and these are the sorts of atmospheres they want to be playing in, so these experiences are great. "Seattle is an amazing place, so we're all very lucky for this trip. I've always wanted to come on a pre-season somewhere like this."
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Lanzini named in Argentina Olympic squad WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's squad for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Lanzini, who has previously been capped at U20 level by his country, will link up with the U23 selection as Argentina go for Gold in Brazil. Argentina have a proud record at the Olympic Games, having won Gold twice and Silver twice from their seven participations. They have been triumphant on their last two appearances – in Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008. Lanzini made his move to the Hammers permanent this summer following a superb season on loan from UAE side Al-Jazira Club and will now hope to shine for his country on the Olympic stage. He joins four other European based players in Julio Olarticoechea's squad, alongside Real Sociedad goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, Joaquin Correa of Sampdoria and Atletico Madrid duo Angel Correa and Luciano Vietto. Argentina's campaign gets underway against Portugal on 4 August, with further group games against Algeria and Honduras to follow. Lanzini will become the second Olympian in the Hammers' squad, after Cheikhou Kouyate represented Senegal in the 2012 London Games.
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Lacazette price rises again
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's key summer transfer target Alexandre Lacazette is likely to cost any potential suitors up to €60million, say reports from France. With Lacazette's current club Lyon needing to sell in order to balance the books at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais it was thought that West Ham were in pole position to sign the 5'9" forward. However with Les Gones having sold Sameul Umtiti to Barcelona for a fee in the region of €30million last week, that shortfall has all but disappeared - meaning Lyon can hold out for even more than the €50million price West Ham had been quoted, say GFFN. With a number of parties still interested in signing the 25-year-old, West Ham are unlikely to make an improved bid - as things stand. And that could allow current favourites, Ligue 1 champions Paris St Germain, to complete a deal for a player who has always been reluctant to express a desire for a summer move to England, despite West Ham's overtures.
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A quite extraordinary season
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
James Collins' long and arduous season finally came to an end in Lyon last night - 349 days after it began in Malta. West Ham United's experienced central defender, who celebrates his 33rd birthday next month, would almost certainly have laughed in your face had you told him he'd end the campaign playing in the semi finals of Euro 16. But that's exactly how it transpired with Collins, sporting his now famous, fiery red beard playing a starring role in Wales' 2-0 defeat against Portugal in last night's last four encounter with Christiano Ronaldo & Co. The season started in inconspicuous fashion for Collins way back on 23 July 2015, with West Ham needing penalties to see off the challenge of Maltese outfit Birkirkara in the second qualifying round of the Europa League.
However his - and West Ham's - Europa League journey was to end in disappointing fashion; the defender received his marching order's in a 2-2 first leg draw at the Boleyn Ground before the Hammers succumbed 2-1 in the reverse leg in Romania. Having finally received assurances that the club wished to retain his services, following much speculation regarding his future, Collins starred in West Ham's 2-1 win at Manchester City in September. However that was to be his only Premier League appearance until the Hammers drew 2-2 at Sunderland at the start of October, when he began to play a greater role in the first team. Although he was dismissed in a 2-0 defeat at Watford in October, Ginge was a regular in Slaven Bilic's side up until the beginning of March when he sustained a hamstring injury during the 1-0 win over Tottenham. Collins would play only one more time for the Hammers before the end of the league campaign - a 3-1 win over Watford in April - but he was back in action for Wales in a pre-Euro 16 friendly against Sweden on 5 June.
And having had to wait patiently for an opportunity - much as he had at his club earlier in the season - the Newport-born star came off the bench to feature in Wales' stunning 3-1 win over Belgium in the quarter finals before making his first start of the tournament in last night's defeat to Portugal.
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Janssen snubs hijack bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
AZ Alkmaar striker Vincent Janssen rejected a late swoop by West Ham to steal him from under the noses of local rivals Tottenham. According to Darren Lewis, writing for the Mirror, the 21-year-old is set to complete a £17million switch to White Hart Lane "within days". However it is also claimed that West Ham made an eleventh-hour bid to gazump Janssen's move to north London - an offer rejected by the player who is reported to have already accepted Tottenham's offer.
Janssen is just the latest in a long line of summer transfer targets that West Ham have failed to land. Michy Batshuayi, one of the club's top targets signed for Chelsea last week whilst right-back Thomas Meunier rejected a move to the Olympic Stadium in favour of joining Ligue 1 champions Paris St Germain. Meanwhile David Sullivan and his team are no closdser to landing the mythical '20-goals-a-season' striker than back in May, when the club's co-owner revealed he had make a £25million bid for Leicester and England forward Jamie Vardy (who has since singed a new contract with the Foxes).
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Valencia close to Lazio switch
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Enner Valencia is on the verge of completing a move to Serie A side Lazio, according to reports from Italy. The Italian side, now under the watchful eye of West Ham's post-Allardyce mangerial candidate Marcelo Bielsa are understood to be close to agreeing a deal to take the Ecuador international on loan for the season. David Amoyal, writing for gianlucadimarzio.com claims that Lazio hope to conclude a deal for Valencia by this weekend, with the striker set to move to the Stadio Olimpico on loan with an option to buy at the end of the 2016/17 campaign. West Ham signed Valencia from Mexican Liga MX side Pachuca two years ago this month in a deal worth in the region of £12million.
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No fairytale ending as Tevez shuns huge contract offer KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 7th July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Half-a-season wonder Carlos Tevez has spurned the opportunity to return to West Ham, it has been revealed. The former Argentine international, who spent one season at West Ham (2006/07) has turned down a £7.5million offer to return to the club having told the club he wanted closer to £250,000-per-week. And that prompted an angry David Sullivan to lash out at the player who scored seven goals for the club in his previous spell. "All this business about 'I love West Ham'? Well, it's 'I love West Ham but only if they give me 250 grand a week'," he told a tabloid newspaper. "I offered him 150 grand a week to come back plus bonuses. I thought that was an incredible offer for someone who loves West Ham. It was also a huge gamble for us because he's 33 now and hasn't done it in South America. "I was hoping he would reproduce what he did at Juventus a year ago. He was a fantastic player," added Sullivan. "But where do you draw the line with what you are prepared to pay? "We tried to get him but he wanted £250,000 a week. In his last year at Juventus he was great. But 250 grand a week? Come on. He'll probably stay where he is now, because he doesn't pay a lot of tax down there."
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West Ham striker Diafra Sakho hands in transfer request By Peter Gilbert Last Updated: 07/07/16 9:21pm
Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request at West Ham, according to Sky sources. The striker was the subject of a failed £11m bid from Sunderland last month. Black Cats manager Sam Allardyce brought the Senegal international to Upton Park from Metz in 2014 when he was in charge of the Hammers. The 26-year-old joined on a four-year contract and has scored 15 goals in 43 Premier League matches for the club. West Brom are reportedly interested in Sakho, who complained of illness and stayed in the UK when the rest of the West Ham squad flew to the US for their pre-season tour at the weekend. The forward, who reportedly fell out with the club in April after being named on the bench, has grown further unsettled due to West Ham admitting they want to sign a big-name striker.
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Gokhan Tore to join West Ham on season-long loan – Sky sources By Sky Sports News HQ Last Updated: 07/07/16 7:10am SSN
West Ham have agreed a deal to sign winger Gokhan Tore from Besiktas, according to Sky sources. Tore will join West Ham on a season-long loan and Sky sources understand the Hammers have the option to make the move permanent for a fee in the region of £10m. He will become manager Slaven Bilic's fifth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Sofiane Feghouli, Toni Martinez, Havard Nordtveit and Domingos Quina. Bilic has been tracking Tore since the end of last season and failed with a bid to sign the 24-year-old on loan in June. But after West Ham successfully negotiated fresh terms with the Turkish champions, Bilic will be able to call upon Tore for the 2016/17 season. Tore, capped 26 times by Turkey, joined Besiktas from Rubin Kazan in 2013 and played under Bilic for two seasons at the club. He made 24 league appearances and scored four times last season as Besiktas claimed their first Super Lig title in seven years.
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Manuel Lanzini to miss West Ham's start after Olympics call-up By Stephen Turner Last Updated: 07/07/16 9:18am SSN
Manuel Lanzini will miss the start of the Premier League season after he was named in Argentina's Olympic Games squad. The West Ham midfielder has been confirmed in an 18-man squad for the tournament, which runs from August 4-20 in Rio de Janeiro. And that schedule rules him out of an opening trip to Chelsea and West Ham's first game at their new Olympic Stadium home the following weekend. Lanzini enjoyed a successful first season in the Premier League after joining the Hammers on an initial loan deal from United Arab Emirates club Al Jazira. The 23-year-old scored six goals in 23 league starts and joined the club permanently in March on a four-year contract. Argentina won gold at the Olympics in 2004 and 2008, but Mexico will go to Rio as defending champions following their success in London four years ago.
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Slaven Bilic hopes Dimitri Payet will stay at West Ham By Nick Lustig Last Updated: 07/07/16 10:12am SSN
Slaven Bilic say he would love to keep Dimitri Payet at West Ham, but concedes the "giant clubs" may come in for him following his exploits at Euro 2016. Payet has been one of the stars of the tournament, producing a number of dazzling displays to help France reach the semi-finals, where they will face Germany at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille on Thursday.
Chelsea, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have since been linked in the national press with moves for the 29-year-old, with figures quoted as high as £60m. Payet joined West Ham from Marseille last summer for an initial £10.75m and enjoyed a sensational debut campaign in England, scoring 12 goals and providing 12 assists. He signed a new five-and-a-half year deal in January and Bilic remains hopeful he will be able to call upon his star man at the Olympic Stadium next season. "As a club manager, when you have a player involved there is added interest and there is no doubt Dimitri Payet has been one of the stars of the tournament," Bilic said in his column for the Daily Mail. "I understand that with his success, all the speculation about his future will follow. I have even seen one report suggesting I don't want him to do well in case it leads to him leaving West Ham. "That is not right. I want him to play great. I want him to score a hat-trick and another hat-trick in the final. "I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham. We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player."
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West Ham striker Diafra Sakho hands in transfer request as Senegalese searches for regular first team football next season West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has expressed his intent to leave the club Senegalese handed in a transfer request after limited game time last term Hammers boss Slaven Bilic has targeted AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce made £11million bid for Sakho last month By SIMON JONES FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 20:45, 7 July 2016 | UPDATED: 20:45, 7 July 2016
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has handed in a transfer request. The 26-year old was the subject of an £11million bid from Sunderland last month but manager Sam Allardyce is considering switching attention to Lorient forward Benjamin Moukandjo. Slaven Bilic has made signing a striker his No 1 priority this summer, with the Hammers manager stepping up his interest in AC Milan front man Carlos Bacca. Bacca has a £25.4m release clause, but Milan are ready to consider offers for lower that amount. The East London club are working on a deal to bring the Colombia forward to the Olympic Stadium ahead of the new season. But Sakho's future appears to lie away elsewhere, with Sunderland among the clubs to have now been put on red alert by the former Metz striker's availability. Allardyce is looking to strengthen the Sunderland squad after narrowly avoiding the drop last campaign is familiar with Sakho from his time as West Ham boss. Sakho finished top goalscorer in his first season at Upton Park, netting 12 goals in 26 games, but he found his first-team opportunities limited last term, scoring just five times in 21 league outings. West Ham are currently out in the US to continue their pre-season preparations, but Sakho is not part of the 22-man squad and could join James Tomkins in heading for the exit after the defender joined Crystal Palace this week.
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West Ham transfer news: David Sullivan attacks Carlos Tevez's 'love' for the club after £250,000 wage demand Jack de Menezes The Independent
West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has questioned Carlos Tevez's "love" of the Premier League club after a possible return fell through when the striker demanded £250,000-a-week to move back to the Premier League. 32-year-old Tevez currently turns out for Boca Juniors in Argentina after leaving Juventus last season, but he remains a sought-after payer that Sullivan believed could be lured back to West Ham, nine years after leaving East London. Sullivan and West Ham co-chairman David Gold are determined to bring in a high profile striker to crown the move to the Olympic Stadium and pus the side on next season, although bids for Jamie Vardy, Alexandre Lacazette, Michy Batshuayi and Christian Benteke have so far proven unsuccessful.
Tevez's name can now be added to that list, with the Argentina international likely to stay with Boca Juniors after demanding a quarter of a million pounds to join the club, leading to Sullivan launching an attack on his claim to "love" the Premier League club. Sullivan said: "All this business, 'I love West Ham', well it's 'I love West Ham if they give me £250,000 a week.'" He also revealed that West Ham's offer to Tevez would have made him the highest paid player at the club, with the £150,000-a-week salary significantly more than the club's current highest paid player in Dimitri Payet. "So how much love is that for West Ham? I actually offered him £150,000-a-week to come back plus bonuses," Sullivan added. "I thought that was an incredible offer for someone who loves West Ham. And it was a huge gamble for us because he's 33 now and hasn't done it in South America.
"We tried to get Tevez but he wanted £250,000-a-week – and is he past his best? He hasn't set the world alight in South America."
In fact, Tevez does not turn 33 until 5 February next year, and his record in Argentina since his return last year stands at nine goals in 17 matches – the same as West Ham's top goalscorers last season in Payet and Andy Carroll who achieved the feat in 30 and 27 appearances respectively. Tevez also departed Juventus having scored an impressive 29 goals in 49 matches for Juventus, although he was left out of Argentina's squad for the Copa America campaign last month. He remains a firm fan favourite among the Hammers faithful after his goal against Manchester United on the final day of the 2006/07 season kept the club in the Premier League.
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Dimitri Payet texts Slaven Bilic to say he is happy at West Ham despite Real Madrid transfer rumours Simon Osborn for Metro.co.uk Thursday 7 Jul 2016 11:12 am
Slaven Bilic says Dimitri Payet has text him to say he is happy at West Ham despite rumoured interest from Real Madrid. The Hammers' midfielder has been one of the stars of Euro 2016 but his form has led to speculation linking him with a move away from the Olympic Stadium. However, Bilic says he is confident the club will be able to hold onto their prized asset. 'I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham,' he said. 'We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player. 'As a club manager, when you have a player involved there is added interest and there is no doubt Dimitri Payet has been one of the stars of the tournament.
'I understand that with his success, all the speculation about his future will follow.' Bilic also scoffed at reports that it is in West Ham's best interests for Payet to flop against Germany tonight, as a poor performance on the biggest stage may make it less likely he would attract offers in the coming weeks. 'I have seen one report suggesting I don't want him to do well in case it leads to him leaving West Ham,' explained Bilic. 'That is not right. I want him to play great. I want him to score a hat-trick and another hat-trick in the final. 'The great thing for him is that he has maintained his high level of performance, which is really difficult when you play at the top level.'
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POYET: NOBLE BRILLIANT WITH THE YOUNGSTERS ANDY KOSTKA readwestham.com
West Ham's American Tour is an excellent opportunity for academy stars to prove their worth for the first team. With the likes of Dimitri Payet and Angelo Ogbonna not with the Hammers as they compete in the Euros, more minutes are available for West Ham's academy. That being said, the jump from the developmental squad to the first team can be difficult to grasp at first. During Tuesday evening's 3-0 defeat to the Seattle Sounders, ten academy players featured, including Toni Martinez, Marcus Browne, and Martin Samuelsen.
However, according to Diego Poyet, the transition is eased by the experienced players at West Ham, particularly captain Mark Noble. "There's obviously a lot of players away. They've been in the Copa America or the Euros. There's experienced first team players like you said that are here. They make it very easy for the young players to feel comfortable, and feel at home. They integrate them into the group really well, in training every day," Poyet told ReadWestHam after the Sounders match. "Mark, especially Noble, the captain, he's brilliant with the youngsters. He came through the ranks here at this club so I think he is brilliant for the young players coming through."
Noble's rise to the captain's armband at West Ham started in 2000, when he joined West Ham's youth academy. His career progression is one West Ham's young stars will surely dream of copying. Noble remains the youngest player to feature in a West Ham's reserve match, aged 15. At 17, he made his first team debut. The following season, 2005, Noble won the Young Hammer of the Year award, and has been a key part of the West Ham squad since 2007.
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Vincent Janssen rejects late attempt from West Ham to hijack his £17million move to Tottenham 13:00, 7 JUL 2016 UPDATED 13:27, 7 JUL 2016 BY DARREN LEWIS The Dutch striker, 21, will sign for the north Londoners and is set to have his transfer from AZ Alkmaar confirmed within days The Mirror
Vincent Janssen has rejected a late bid from West Ham to hijack his £17million move to Spurs. The Dutch striker, 21, will sign for the north Londoners and is set to have his transfer from AZ Alkmaar confirmed within days. West Ham offered a higher transfer fee and bigger wages in an attempt to steal Janssen from under the noses of their London rivals.
But Janssen, who had also rejected an approach from French champions PSG, was insistent that Tottenham were the only club that he wanted to join. The Holland marksman netted 27 times in 34 appearances for Alkmaar last season. He has also scored in three of his last four games for this country. Mirror Sport revealed last month that Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino had moved to make him the first of his striking reinforcements after two seasons relying on England frontman Harry Kane. Janssen travelled to London to hold talks and agreed terms but, after leading Spurs to believe a £12million deal would be straightforward, Alkmaar hiked up the price, instead demanding £17million. Spurs are now deciding whether to meet Newcastle's £25million asking price for attacking midfielder Gigi Wijnaldum.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic: I know big clubs want Dimitri Payet, but he's staying By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT Thursday, July 7, 2016
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic has conceded big clubs are interested in Dimitri Payet, but is certain the Hammers' talismanic midfielder WILL remain at the club. Payet has impressed on international duty for France at Euro 2016, picking up from where he left off for West Ham last season. A stand-out star whose free-kicks and creative play made him one of the Premier League's most exciting players and has led to interest from Europe's elite clubs. But Bilic is convinced Payet will be lining up in the famous Claret and Blue as the east Londoners begin a new era at the Olympic Stadium. Bilic told the Daily Mail: "I understand that with his success, all the speculation about his future will follow. "I have even seen one report suggesting I don't want him to do well in case it leads to him leaving West Ham. That is not right. I want him to play great. I want him to score a hat-trick and another hat-trick in the final. "I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham. We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player."
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West Ham open talks with AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca ahead of potential £20m move as Gokhan Tore loan deal nears completion West Ham open talks with AC Milan's Colombian striker Carlos Bacca Hammers willing to pay £20m for the striker who has £24.5m release clause Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore is close to a loan move to Slaven Bilic's side Tore's loan deal will include an option for a permanent move next summer Carlos Tevez turned down a potential return to former club West Ham By KIERAN GILL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:49, 7 July 2016 | UPDATED: 09:58, 7 July 2016
West Ham have opened talks to sign Carlos Bacca from AC Milan and will meet with the player's representatives this week. The Hammers know they need to sign a striker this summer and the Colombia international is a top target. They are willing to pay around £20million, with Slaven Bilic wanting to get his transfer business done as soon as possible. Bacca's release clause stands at £25.4m but Milan are ready to sell, and talks over a transfer are to be held at a meeting in London on Friday.
The 29-year-old is not the only star that West Ham could sign in the next week. The club are also set to snap up Turkey international Gokhan Tore on a loan deal with the option to buy at the end of the season.
CARLOS BACCA'S CAREER HISTORY
2006-11: Atletico Junior - 108 games, 50 goals
2012-13: Club Brugge - 50 games, 29 goals
2013-15: Sevilla - 103 games, 46 goals
2015-: AC Milan - 43 games, 20 goals
A medical was already pencilled in for the 24-year-old and the move for the Besiktas winger could be confirmed within the next seven days if all goes well. West Ham's search for firepower has also seen them talk to former striker Carlos Tevez, with co-owner David Sullivan revealing he offered the forward £150,000 a week to return to the club he helped save from relegation in 2007. The move would have seen Tevez become the club's highest earner, beating Dimitri Payet's £100,000 a week, but Sullivan said the Argentine wanted £250,000 to return to England from Boca Juniors.
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A Classy Exit From A Classy Player
By Stuart Plant on July 7, 2016 in Opinion, Transfer News
Over the last few weeks we had been faced with the prospect of James Tomkins leaving the club, this week saw this rumour move from transfer talk into the real world. Tomkins has left his club for pastures new across London with Crystal Palace, for a fee believed to be £10million, with add-ons included on top of that.
The majority of fans (myself included!) reacted negatively, he's been at the club since he was 7 years old, he's one of our best Academy graduates of the most recent few to break through and embodies what many see the club as. However, when you look at the situation as a whole, the move away unfortunately makes perfect sense.
At the age of 27 and approaching his 'prime' for footballer, vying for a starting berth against a right winger to play first team football at RB, is not what he would be wishing for, but it's the prospect he was faced with last season. With a plethora of top quality CB's at the club in; Winston Reid, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins it's easy to see why Bilic would want to utilise Tomkins at RB. If this wasn't a competitive enough position for him to find himself in, the emergence of both Reece Oxford and Reece Burke for the CB role has probably been the tipping point for Tomkins.
I still remember the hype surrounding Tomkins as he was making his way to breaking through, and, I just as equally remember him getting given the absolute run around by Yakubu on his first (I believe?) start. Consistently too close, turned far too often, and in general had nothing to combat the experience Yakubu. It seemed like a real facepalm moment, but, if anything in hindsight it was the perfect storm of start to Premier League life for him. You come back to now and Tomkins is a completely different player; good in the tackle, on the ball, in the air and not prone to many individual errors as some of our other CBs. Plus, he doesn't have that ridiculous hair he did when he broke through, so that's another positive!
Far too often when a player is unhappy with their playing time, we find out via stories of unrest, unhappiness and displeasure being leaked to the papers, etc. Not from Tomkins. He has acted like an absolute professional in this, and, it is quite clear in my mind at least that this is because he didnt want to leave. I'm not saying he was forced to, I'm saying that he left purely for professional reasons – he is a footballer, he wants to play football at CB as regularly as possible and Crystal Palace can give him that. Should he have settled for playing 3rd fiddle? Possibly not getting a look in at CB ahead of two youngsters? Instead focused on nailing down the RB slot ahead of a winger? No way.
Instead he has asked privately to leave, the wish has been listened to and accepted when Palace came calling. He gave his touching leaving words, as did the players none more so than his friend of two decades Mark Noble. Then, came the rather glum looking photos from his reveal as a Palace player, and that very awkward Palace site interview. The club and James Tomkins as a whole should be commended for how well this has been done, I just wish there was a way hadn't had to leave. But, it was his decision, and besides which, it's blindingly clear he's always going to love the club.
Despite it being heartbreaking to see someone who we thought would be another Academy graduate turned one-club-man leave, everything adds up. Yes, I'm talking financially now! When is the last time we made a significant profit on a player? When is the last time we sold an Academy graduate for a substantial fee? When is the last time we could sell a reserve player for anything near £10million? Yes, the fee is inflated because of his age and nationality, but, it's also because he is a damn good defender. The fact we are more than able to allow him to leave says more about the way our squad is shaping up.
If Tomkins goes on to be reunited with Pardew and progress his career then it's a success. If we use the transfer fee to get players in who are going to be in the first XI then it's a success. Finally, if we have sold him for an inflated fee then get him back in a Collins-esque scenario, then it will definitely be, a success!
All the best Tonks.
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Leeds United sign former England and West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Championship side Leeds United have completed the signing of former England international goalkeeper Robert Green. The 36-year-old, who was released by QPR at the end of last season, has signed a one-year deal with Garry Monk's Championship side. Leeds become Green's fourth club, after making over 200 appearances for both Norwich and West Ham before joining QPR in 2012. Green told his new side's website: "This is one of those opportunities where the first phone call asking if you want to come and play for Leeds is a very quick one. It was a 'yes' straightaway. "I'm thrilled to be here. I've spoken to the manager and I know what he's got in store and what he's planning." Green follows Monk's summer signings in Kyle Bartley, Sporting Lisbon forward Hadi Sacko and Swedish striker Marcus Antonsson to Elland Road.
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