Hammers proud to create local jobs - WHUFC Official Site
West Ham United's anchor tenancy at the London Stadium was always intended
to bring jobs to the area around Stratford, and new figures published today
show the contribution that the Club have directly made towards that goal.
The London boroughs of Newham, Tower Hamlets and Barking & Dagenham have the
highest rates of unemployment in the capital, and youth unemployment is a
particular problem in each borough. One of the key reasons the 2012 Games
were staged in East London was to bring investment, regeneration and jobs to
the capital's most deprived area.
Maintaining that legacy was a key component of West Ham's bid to become the
anchor tenant at the former Olympic Stadium, and as a result of the Club's
presence, Stratford will have an extra guaranteed footfall in excess of 1.2
million people each season, supporting the businesses and jobs located in
the area, and attracting even greater investment in the years to come.
However, West Ham has also sought to play a direct part in that effort by
employing the maximum number of local residents in additional posts created
by the Stadium move, working in concert with our partners in the London
Borough of Newham through their Newham Workplace service.
So far a total of 81 additional staff have been recruited to work in the
Club's new Stadium Store and Ticket Office facilities on Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park. Of these, 40 per cent live within 3 miles of the Stadium, and
three-quarters live in the London Borough of Newham or its six surrounding
boroughs. Furthermore over 80% of those recruited within these boroughs are
aged 16-24.
West Ham Vice-Chairman Karren Brady is proud of the progress that has been
made, saying:
"The concept of an Olympic Legacy for London was founded on the promise that
a long-term future for the new Stadium would continue to bring jobs,
business and regeneration to the most deprived area of London for many
decades to come. And it is West Ham United's anchor tenancy at the Stadium
is what makes that successful long-term future both possible and
sustainable.
"Anyone who has visited Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in the past week and
witnessed it thriving with over 110,000 West Ham supporters in the space of
four days trying out all the facilities and amenities, shopping and eating,
and enjoying all that the Park and Stratford as a whole have to offer would
be in no doubt about the very tangible regeneration and economic benefits
West Ham's presence in the Stadium is bringing to East London.
"But more than that, we are also actively playing our part by providing jobs
for local residents, and giving vocational training and opportunities to
thousands of local youngsters through our Foundation. We are proud to play
our part in delivering the legacy Britain was promised."
In addition to the new recruits, West Ham has gone to great lengths to
ensure that the staff responsible for stewarding at the Boleyn Ground were
able to take up new roles with the contractors responsible for stewarding at
the London Stadium.
We are currently recruiting for staff to work across the Club's Stadium
store, warehouse and online store from September in the build up to
Christmas. We hope to hire as many local residents as possible, and details
of the recruitment process can be found here.
http://www.whufc.com/Club/Recruitment/Vacancies
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
October and November fixture changes confirmed - WHUFC Official Site
The Premier League have announced their fixture changes for October and
November.
West Ham United's away game at Crystal Palace will remain on Saturday 15
October, but will now kick-off at 5.30pm.
Meanwhile, the Hammers' trip to Everton has been moved to Sunday 30 October,
with kick-off set for 1.30pm.
In November, the London derby at Tottenham Hotspur will now kick-off at
5.30pm on Saturday 19 November.
Finally, Slaven Bilic's men will now head to Manchester United on Sunday 27
November, with kick-off at 4.30pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Keep us Americans Out of Your Owner's Suite - thewesthamway
by Brian Knox on 11 August 2016 at 10:03pm
By @WestHamAmerican
A wealthy gentleman from my hometown recently (2012) purchased an NFL
franchise. I have known him for a few years and know him to be a shrewd
businessman, a generous philanthropist, and he loves sports…especially
American football. For a few seasons he was a minority owner of the
Pittsburgh Steelers, and had his sights set on outright majority ownership
of an NFL club. Being from Tennessee, he had always wanted to purchase our
own local NFL team but the owners not wanting to sell, he found the
opportunity in Ohio by purchasing the, perennially horrible, Cleveland
Browns for $1 billion.
NFL ownership is an elite fraternity as there are only 32 teams without
promotion or relegation. The NFL is by far the most profitable investment
in American sports. Even a horrible team will bring in millions in revenue
from the broadcast rights and merchandising. Also, NFL teams have protected
markets. They would never allow a city like Manchester to have two
successful clubs in the same town (or London to have 4-7) so your club will
have dominance in the local media coverage and scant competition for stadium
attendance.
Even under his ownership, though, the Browns have continued to struggle;
finding neither great coaching nor great quarterback play during his four
seasons in the owner's box. But another issue I suspect he faces is his
status among the local longtime supporters as an "outsider owner." No
matter his efforts at community outreach and presence in Cleveland he will
never be "one of them"; Especially since he continues to live most of the
year at his family home.
That brings me to Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Gold. This week there has been
plenty of heat on social media directed at our West Ham owners due to not
signing some players we had all hoped for, not liking the seating
configuration in the London Stadium, not liking being told to not stand up
in front of elderly patrons for 90 minutes of play, not liking potential
stadium name sponsors, and numerous other grievances. I hope true fans
would pause and take stock of how fortunate you are to have owners that are
both local and true fans of West Ham United. There will be bumps in the
road, but overall the heights this club is reaching are astounding. For a
benchmark, just remember that 32 months ago we lost to Forest 5-0 in an FA
Cup tie. And our owners have paid adequate reverence to the club's storied
history throughout this run.
When I look around the Premier League, I see a number of clubs that have
sold out to American investors. Not to knock my fellow countrymen, but even
in the large clubs this casts an uneasy feeling upon the clubs' supporters.
The Glazier family from Florida purchased Manchester United and burdened the
club with crushing debt. Their post-Ferguson life has been rocky, but
possibly brighter days are ahead. The Liverpool ownership by John Henry has
had starts and stops as Liverpool scouts have frequently complained that the
board tries to run player scouting like they do their Boston baseball team;
high on computer modeling of player statistics, low on longtime scouts'
expertise. Randy Lerner's time as owner of Aston Villa led to relegation
(and yesterday's loss to a League 2 side). And finally Stanley Kroenke's
ownership of Arsenal has seen… "a more frugal" use of funds in the transfer
market than what a club with their resources should do. A lot of criticism
aimed at Arsene Wenger for unaggressive transfer moves probably should
really find its way to a board that views the Gunners as an investment and
not a passion.
When the ownership of a sports team is crazy about their team and wore their
colours, even before they were successful businessmen, then I feel that you
have something special; a reverence for the fans, for the history, for the
local community. There is a bit more emphasis on a strong youth academy.
There are plenty of unseen charities supported that a distant American owner
wouldn't make a priority.
I think I'm the biggest West Ham fan in all of the United States; however, I
probably don't need to ever own the club. Mainly, because I don't think I
would ever move to London. It's hard to own a community institution when
you are so removed from the community. Maybe if I came into a large amount
of wealth I could purchase a minority stake in WHUFC. What little I've
gotten to know of Jack and Dave, I think we would have a pretty fun time
with it. But my dreaming of billions aside, West Ham's passionate fans
should lighten up on our board. They are doing a great job managing wages,
moving to a new facility, and growing the brand while keeping in touch with
the past. Each time you find a complaint to share with @DavidGold remember
there is some American hedge fund manager that would love to try to "invest"
in Stratford's Premier League club. He would say "We've Got Payet" all the
way until a record transfer to Real Madrid came across his desk. Then it
would be "We HAD Payet."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham injury news: Manuel Lanzini returns to training as Argentine steps
up recovery - The Standard
James Benge
Friday 12 August 2016
Manuel Lanzini has returned to training at West Ham in a bid to be fit
earlier than Slaven Bilic had expected.
The Argentine midfielder injured himself whilst preparing for the Rio
Olympics with his national team last month and Bilic feared Lanzini could be
out for up to five weeks.
It appears, though, that Lanzini's recovery may be ahead of schedule with
West Ham's head of medical and sport science Stijn Vandenbroucke confirming
that the 23-year-old had started running again and returned to training.
"Manuel injured his knee while on Olympic Games duty with Argentina,"
Vandenbroucke said. "He was wearing a knee brace for four weeks. Manuel is
out of the brace and has entered a new phase in his rehab and started
running on Wednesday."
West Ham's early season games – away to Chelsea, a two-legged Europa League
playoff with Astra Giurgiu and a debut league game at the London Stadium
against Bournemouth – may come too soon for Lanzini but Bilic will be
encouraged to see his midfielder back at Rush Green.
Turkish winger Gokhan Tore, a summer arrival on loan from Besiktas, also
resumed training today whilst Vandenbroucke confirmed both Andre Ayew and
Arthur Masuaku had no fitness concerns since signing for West Ham this week.
He said: "They have been training with their previous clubs and joined us
with similar levels of fitness as the rest of the squad which is good, but
new players are always a little bit more at risk."
Club record signing Ayew and Masuaku could both make their debuts at
Stamford Bridge on Monday night. Dimitri Payet will also play a part, though
Bilic warned that he does not expect his star man to be fit for 90 minutes.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic excited as West Ham prepare for Chelsea
By Mike Patterson
Last Updated: 11/08/16 11:26am
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is looking forward to locking horns with
Chelsea and their new head coach Antonio Conte when the Premier League
season gets underway on Monday, live on Sky Sports.
Bilic's side make the trip across London to Stamford Bridge after a busy
pre-season campaign which has seen them progress to the Europa League
play-off round.
The Blues will represent tough first opponents for West Ham as they look to
put last season's disappointment behind them under Italian Conte, but Bilic
is ready for the challenge.
"We are excited about the first game. We have had a good pre-season and have
a good squad," he said.
"We are expecting the new signings to improve us. We expect a tough game
against Chelsea on Monday."
Bilic is a big fan of Conte who took over at Chelsea following Italy's
quarter-final exit at Euro 2016.
"Antonio Conte is a great manager and wants to change the way they approach
the game and the principles. I rate him very highly," he added.
"I am sure he will do a good job there. But we beat the big teams away last
season and it was a good experience for us."
West Ham have a couple of extra days to prepare for their opening fixture
and Bilic said France playmaker Dimitri Payet, who returned late to
pre-season training after the Euro 2016 final, could be involved.
"We still have four days to go," said Bilic at his press conference on
Thursday. "We will see how we are going to start on Monday night. We have
Plan A and Plan B. We have that already.
"We are still waiting to see on a couple of positions who is going to start.
Dimitri Payet is one of the players. He came back very fit.
"He doesn't need a long pre-season, an individual one, but he is definitely
not fit for 90 minutes so we are going to see. But he came back in really
good shape, motivated and everything."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea vs West Ham team news: Injury updates, possible line-ups and more -
Mirror
07:45, 13 Aug 2016
Updated 10:51, 13 Aug 2016
By James Whaling
The Blues and Hammers contest the season's first London derby on Monday
evening in Antonio Conte's first competitive game in charge
Antonio Conte will take charge of his first competitive game as Chelsea
manager as they host West Ham in the season's first London derby on Monday
evening.
The Italian has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the Blues' Premier League
opener, with Kurt Zouma remaining sidelined as he steps up his return to
full fitness from a knee injury.
Big summer signing N'Golo Kante is likely to be thrown in from the start as
he looks to continue the form that saw him become a vital cog in Leicester's
title-winning wheel.
Slaven Bilic could hand out several Hammers debuts, with Andre Ayew, Sofiane
Feghouli, Havard Nordtveit, Gokhan Tore and Arthurd Masuaku all bidding for
a first Irons appearance.
West Ham will be without Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini, however, who
have both been ruled out with knee injuries.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini gets return date - Claret & Hugh
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 13, 2016 in News, Whispers
lanziniManu Lanzini is targeting the match against Watford on September 10
for his return to the squad.
The Argentine playmaker is making good progress from the knee injury he
suffered prior to the Rio Olympics and hopes to be back for the clash at the
London Stadium.
Optimisic Manu is making decent progress and is recognised in the dressing
room as a quick healer whilst he has told friends that they can expect a
Hornets return within the next three weeks.
The news has also been confirmed by the well respected
http://www.physioroom.com/ who also claim that he will be back on that date.
The site has a good track record for projected returns but claim that Aaron
Cresswell will not be seen until November 26 .The Irons take on Manchester
United the following day – a Sunday – at Old Trafford.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is this Slav's line-up for Chelsea? - Claret & Hugh
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 13, 2016 in News, Whispers
Ok with the big game around the corner the guessing game starts – how will
Slav line up the lads for a big night at Stamford Bridge?
We have no major inside information as the manager himself has admittd it
remains open but having looked closely at pre-season we reckon this looks
something like the line up he will use – with Payet in for Feghouli and
Cressie back plus a little formation reshuffle – when everybody is
available.
Those not included here will, we believe, be used mainly for Europa and
Domestic Cup games plus being drafted in when we have injuries or
suspension.
So here's how we believe the team will look for Monday night: Adrian:
Antonio, Reid, Ogbonna Masuaku; Nordveit; Feghouli, Noble, Kouyate; Ayew,
Carroll.
Should that turn out to be the case we believe that James Collins can
consider himself unlucky as Winston Reid has looked uncertain in the
pre-season.
However, we don't expect the manager to start to season by leaving out a
player who has been key for us in recent seasons on the bench.
Natually we hope we have the right side of defence wrong and that Sam Byram
is in there with Antionio pushed forward. Sadly we have our doubts.
Slav has indcated strongly in his pre-season presser that Dimi is likely to
be on the pitch at the end having coming back in good condition.
ClaretandHugh verdict: 2-2
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic hints at why he chose Andre Ayew over Carlos Bacca
Date: 12th August 2016 at 9:59pm
Written by: Matt Bourne
Slaven Bilic has praised West Ham's new signing Andre Ayew for his
determination to join the Hammers this summer.
Ayew became West Ham's record signing this summer and Bilic has publicly
praised Ayew's desire to join the Hammers:
"We lost some players who were on loan to us — Victor Moses, Emmanuel
Emenike, Alex Song – and one player that we didn't want to lose – James
Tomkins – and we wanted to replace them with what we hope are better
players," stated Bilic.
"And I'm sure Andre is one of them. He is a top player, he is a winner. He
played for a long time at Marseille, where you have to be a strong character
because the pressure is there 24/7 week in, week out, and he coped with
that.
"And he wanted to come — you want players who want to come to West Ham. The
players on our list were also on the list of clubs bigger than us and
sometimes you have to convince a player to come here. But he was very
excited and we are glad."
It seems that Bilic could be referring to West Ham's pursuit of Carlos
Bacca. The striker has been linked with a move to the Hammers all season but
it has been difficult to convince the Colombian to join the club. It also
explains why Bilic opted for Ayew over Bacca, highlighting the player's
Premier League experience and willingness to play for West Ham.
The Irons are preparing for their opening fixture of the Premier League
season away to Chelsea on Monday and Ayew is expected to play a part at
Stamford Bridge.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
England chance for West Ham pair? - Vital England
The West Ham boys haven't had England chances many feel several could, if
not should, have had over the years.
Will the arrival of Sam Allardyce, who is the one who signed some of those
for West Ham over the years whereas others he managed and often championed
for England involvement during and after his time with the Hammers, change
this?
Mark Noble is arguably the most surprising player not to be capped by
England in the present era. Big Sam taking over 'could' see that chance
finally come with Andy Carroll also hoping for a recall.
Like I say others at the Olympic Stadium would have one eye on a call up too
but Noble has always made it clear he holds England hope.
Having won 20 caps at U21 level that senior call hasn't ever come for the
29-year-old and he doesn't feel, when quoted by sky sports, Big Sam's
appointment changes these chances as when asked he answered:
'Not one little bit to be honest.'
Noble added he enjoyed playing for him at West Ham and thinks he'll do well
with England too as he's 'the right man' for the job:
'I'm going to enjoy playing here and obviously I played under Sam for four
years and thoroughly enjoyed my football under him. I thought he was a great
manager and I loved him as a person and I think he is the right man for the
job. I think he will do well, 100 per cent, his man-management qualities and
what he expects from his teams, what he gets out of the players, I think he
is the right man.'
Noble finished by saying he spoke to Big Sam after he kept Sunderland in the
Premier League last season but hasn't spoken with him since his England
appointment.
His phone is 'always on' if he wants to get in touch though!
Carroll's another of those West Ham players who must have the 'best chance'
of an England recall as Big Sam always put a lot of faith in him and of
course has previous with him at club level with the Hammers and Newcastle.
Slaven Bilic though, also quoted by sky sports, warned him that he's got to
show his best form for West Ham this season for his England chance to come
again:
'The last England boss was also English, but my players shouldn't dream
about England because of a good season or a change of manager. They must
play well for West Ham.'
A couple of goals against Juventus recently wouldn't have done Carroll's
chances any harm but as Bilic said he's got to produce at club level for
West Ham this season to warrant that place in the England squad.
27-year-old Carroll clearly has his mind set on that:
'Obviously England is right in my head. I want to be back in the England
shirt, but I can't get there just on the manager being my old manager at
West Ham. I think it would be unfair to even think that. I've just got to
work hard at training, listen to the staff here, play the games I play,
score goals and create chances and hopefully he will pick me.
'Nothing is a guarantee. Obviously he knows what I am capable of, in and out
of training and in games, that's nice to know. But for me I have to just
carry on playing for West Ham as best as I can and hopefully push myself
in.'
Both of these players 'probably' have a better chance of England involvement
now that Big Sam is the manager although touting players for national
selection when you're the manager of the at club level is different to
selecting them for the Three Lions when that manager is you isn't it.
If Big Sam genuinely thinks these two (and others at West Ham) are the best
options for his squad he'll select them, but previous isn't likely to be
something that makes England involvement any more likely.
Follow @VitalEngland.
Like Vital England on Facebook.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 13
Friday, August 12
Daily WHUFC News - 12th August
Kouyate welcomes Dimi return - WHUFC Official Site
Cheikhou Kouyate delighted to welcome Dimitri Payet back to pre-season training
Senegal star scored West Ham United's first-ever goal at London Stadium
No8 is targeting another strong season in Claret and Blue - his third as a Hammer
Cheikhou Kouyate has welcomed Dimitri Payet back to the West Ham United squad after a deserved summer break.
The Hammer of the Year returned for pre-season training on Friday – the morning after Kouyate had bagged the historic first goal at the Club's new London Stadium home – after a storybook Euro 2016 with France.
The outstanding playmaker and Senegal midfielder dovetailed superbly during their first season as teammates, and Kouyate cannot wait to have Payet back on the pitch with him again when the Premier League season kicks-off at Chelsea on Monday evening.
"He is the best player at West Ham so all eyes will be focused on him now," said Kouyate. "We will need him to play well for West Ham this season. Yes, Manchester City and Manchester United have nice teams but we are looking forward to playing them."
While the presence of Payet and a host of other top-class players will give West Ham plenty of reasons for optimism for 2016/17, the No8 knows West Ham can take nothing for granted.
With Monday's hosts, Manchester City, Manchester United, Everton and Southampton all bringing in new managers and players galore, Kouyate says Slaven Bilic's squad need to hit top form as quickly as possible if they are to improve on last season's seventh-place finish.
That said, he is not ruling anything out!
He is the best player at West Ham so all eyes will be focused on him now Cheikhou Kouyate on Dimitri Payet
"We must stay humble, keep our feet on the ground," said Kouyate. "All the games will be very difficult, we know that.
"But nothing is impossible in football now. If we keep together, anything is possible. Yes, it is possible for us to get to the Champions League. Why not?
"We all get on very well and we have a captain in Mark Noble who is fantastic and so good for the team. He motivates all the players. If you play as a team and work hard you can achieve a lot."
Finally, Kouyate found time to reflect on his historic goal, which he netted just eight minutes into West Ham's life at their new home.
The African's flicked finish set his team on their way to a 3-0 UEFA Europa League third qualifying round win over NK Domzale, setting up a play-off round rematch with Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu for a place in the group stage.
"I am so proud to have scored the first goal," he smiled. "The game was very important for the Club.
"This is a very big memory for me, a big moment. Historic. I don't think the people who came to watch expected me to score the first goal!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan deal agreed for Calleri - WHUFC Official Site
West Ham United are delighted to confirm a deal has been agreed to sign Argentinean striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan, subject to international clearance.
A loan fee and personal terms have been agreed with Calleri and his club Deportivo Maldonado and the 22-year-old is expected to arrive in London next week.
The exciting frontman will link up with the Hammers after appearing and scoring for his country at the Rio Olympic Games, and on the back of a prolific 18 months at club level.
Manager Slaven Bilic says the capture of Calleri, who finished as leading scorer at the 2016 Copa Libertadores, will add balance to the Hammers' attacking options.
"We have agreed to sign Calleri," he said "Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics this week, so he should be here with us pretty soon, depending on the work permit.
"We did the deal a little while ago, and he is a top striker. You need a squad, of course, but it is all about the balance. I think we have a good balance."
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his career with Primera Division side All Boys, making his senior debut at the age of 19 in August 2013.
The young forward's ability and promise attracted the attention of Argentina's biggest clubs and it was no surprise when legendary South American coach Carlos Bianchi took him to Boca Juniors in July 2014.
There, Calleri netted his first goal on his second start at Estudiantes before celebrating his 20th birthday with the winner against local rivals Racing Club.
The busy South American fixture list saw Calleri amass an impressive 53 appearances, 21 goals and eleven assists in a successful 18-month spell with Boca that saw him win the Primera Division and Copa Argentina double in late 2015.
The exciting youngster joined Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado in January 2016 and was soon loaned to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo.
Calleri spent six months in southern Brazil, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances, including an impressive nine in 12 Copa Libertadores ties – the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – as Sao Paulo reached the semi-finals.
After the deal is complete, he will become the sixth Argentine to play for West Ham after Lionel Scaloni, Javier Mascherano, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Zarate and current star Manuel Lanzini.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Founders feedback update - WHUFC Official Site
Two games into life at London Stadium and West Ham United continue to receive hundreds of emails from supporters each day sharing their feedback of the Hammers' new home. It is a vital way to communicate with the Club's loyal supporters and we promise we read each and every one. They help to shape the action taken to improve your experiences at the Stadium, so please keep emailing us your thoughts, good and bad!
Happily, supporters have informed us that the return journey to Stratford Station following the Betway Cup was a significant improvement on Thursday night. On a similar note, fans remarked that they were pleased to see concessions remaining open after the final whistle, so that they could enjoy refreshments on the concourse while waiting for the crowds to disperse. We will ensure the caterers continue to do this.
On the flip side, supporters have commented on the length of queues and the time it is taking to be served at half time. The Club met with the Stadium's caterers Delaware North on Wednesday and asked them to address this issue as a matter of urgency and to continue to optimise the offers and availability based on the learnings of these first two fixtures. They have given us their assurances that they will do this.
Additionally, lots of you have asked whether some sort of shelving could be installed on the concourse, to make it easier to juggle food and drink. The Club have spoken to the Stadium operators LS185 and will report back on when this will be installed.
With regard to transport, many supporters have written to inform us of some failures in the service on Abellio Greater Anglia services. While this is obviously beyond the Club's jurisdiction, our Vice-Chairman Karren Brady has written to the UK Managing Director of Abellio Greater Anglia to share your feedback. We know they want to provide a good service so we are very hopeful that they will make some significant improvements and we will of course keep you informed as to the response we get.
Inside the Stadium, supporters continue to raise the topic of standing during the game. We are pleased to note that some Season Ticket Holders in the East Stand confirmed that the situation had improved since Thursday's Europa League opener, but it remains an issue elsewhere in the ground, particularly where the views of disabled supporters are being impeded.
We implore supporters to be respectful and considerate of their fellow Hammers and fans should note that Stadium stewards are acting on the Club's authority. The Vice-Chairman has since written to supporters on this very subject.
It has also been brought to the Club's attention that supporters are taking alcoholic drinks into the Stadium bowl. While we appreciate that supporters will have enjoyed doing so during the Olympic Games and at more recent athletics meets, we must remind supporters that the legislation in the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985 dictates that supporters cannot consume alcohol in view of the pitch and it is against the law to do so.
Finally, supporters should rest assured that the current covering between the pitch and stands is merely a temporary measure and will be replaced, in its entirety, with Astroturf ahead of the Premier League curtain-raiser against Bournemouth. Likewise, the installation of bold West Ham branding has begun to be installed at the back of the relocatable seating in the West Stand and is expected to be in situ for Sunday 21 August, while the world-class Stadium wrap will also be complete.
Thank you for all of your emails to foundersfeedback@westhamunited.co.uk and do keep them coming. Together, we will continue to improve the matchday experience at London Stadium.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Speaks - Chelsea - WHUFC Official Site
Slaven Bilic relishing Premier League curtain raiser against Chelsea on Monday
Manager looking forward to duel with new Blues boss Antonio Conte
Gaffer gives update on squad ahead of big kick-off
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic cannot wait for his team's new Premier League season to get underway at Chelsea on Monday night.
The Hammers head across London to face Antonio Conte's team as the Italian takes to the dugout for the first time as Blues boss.
Bilic says West Ham have prepared well for the new campaign and are ready to mix it once again with the league's biggest teams.
Slaven, how excited and how ready are you for the new Premier League season?
SB: "We're excited, of course. It starts for us on Monday, we did a good pre-season and we are ready for the start. We have a good squad – we've kept most of the players and we've added some players too. We are expecting them to improve us – we'd expect that even without them because we have been together for a year now and had a good last season.
"We are expecting a good season, of course."
What are you expecting from Chelsea?
SB: "A tough game, a good game against a big club with a new manager. He is a great manager – he did a terrific job with Juventus and with Italy. He is one of those who wants to put his stamp on the team, not just continue what the previous managers have done, but to change the way they approach the game. Change the principles and nature of the game.
"He's one of them, that's why I rate him so highly. Is he going to do it straight away? It is more difficult of course to change the long-term habits that players have had, especially when they are big players at a big club. But, I'm sure he is going to do a good job there."
You and your team had a lot of good results against top teams in the league early last season. Is that something that will give this squad confidence going into this season?
SB: "In one way yes, in the other way it's very dangerous. If we think we've got good results against most of them last season and we're going to do it now by default, it doesn't happen by default.
"But it's a good memory, it's a good experience, it's a good pattern that we know very recently we have done this, this, this and this. If we do those basic things again in terms of compactness, togetherness, team spirit and humility, then of course it's good to rely on the knowledge that you have done those things against those clubs in those circumstances."
Are you missing any players for Monday's game?
SB: "Usually we have a press conference a day or a couple of days before a game, but this week we are speaking four days before the match. We may say that's not a lot, but with the players that signed for us only a couple of days ago, plus the players who came back from a longer break because of the Euros, two days or four days matters a lot.
"We will see how we are going to start on Monday night. There are not many tactical differences, we have Plan A and Plan B. We have that already, but it is still very open on a couple of positions for who is going to start and which players are likely to finish the game.
"With some players you want to have them on the pitch for the last 15 minutes, so we are going to see."
What about Dimitri Payet?
SB: "He is one of them, yes. He came back in really good shape so he doesn't need a long pre-season individually. He's not fit for 90 minutes, so we will see, but he came back in really good shape, motivated and everything."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Treatment Room - WHUFC Official Site
The latest injury news with Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke - in association with Spire Roding Hospital...
Hello everyone,
We are in the final few days of preparations for the new Premier League season at our new Training Ground at Rush Green, and all of the players and staff are looking forward to an exciting trip to Chelsea on Monday evening.
I would like to start by welcoming Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku to West Ham United. Both are fit and ready to go.
They have been training with their previous clubs and joined us with similar levels of fitness as the rest of the squad which is good, but new players are always a little bit more at risk.
This week we have encouraging news regarding Manuel Lanzini, Aaron Cresswell and Gokhan Tore.
Manuel injured his knee while on Olympic Games duty with Argentina. He was wearing a knee brace for four weeks. Manuel is out of the brace and has entered a new phase in his rehab and started running on Wednesday.
Aaron injured his knee in the pre-season match with Karlsruher in Austria. He did not require an operation and is making very good progress. Aaron has been wearing a brace and using crutches for a few weeks.
He has now started walking with the brace, partially weight bearing. On Sunday we will take the brace off and progress to the next steps in his rehabilitation process.
Gokhan got injured in the final training session in Slovenia before our UEFA Europa League first leg with Domzale.
He had a significant trauma to his knee and rehabbed very well with our medical team and rehab fitness coach Eamon Swift, finishing those sessions on Wednesday. He will resume training with the squad today.
Diafra Sakho is undertaking an individual training programme and is working hard to attain the right level of fitness to join the squad as soon as he can.
Finally, Cheikhou Kouyate, Pedro Obiang and Darren Randolph picked up minor knocks in the Domzale home leg and we didn't want to take any chances, so they were not involved in the Juventus game. They all trained without any problems on Wednesday and are fit for selection against Chelsea.
Enjoy the weekend and the start of the new Premier League season!
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble - It's a competitive league - WHUFC Official Site
Mark Noble says the Hammers can lay down a marker ahead of what promises to be the most competitive of Premier League seasons when they travel to Chelsea on Monday evening.
With plenty of change in terms of personnel, both managerial and playing-wise at the teams chasing league glory – not to mention last year's top two Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur looking to mount challenges again – the level of intrigue has been ramped up to the max as the new season get underway.
The Hammers face one of those sides to change bosses, and with Antonio Conte in the dugout for the first time, Noble is looking forward to the challenge, both on Monday and all season long.
He said: "We've got seven or eight of the best ten or eleven managers in Europe in the Premier League now. We've got some of the best players too – Paul Pogba's just come here for £100m, Ibrahimovic, the players who Man City have signed and I'm pretty sure there'll be a lot more to come from the top clubs.
"Do I think this is going to be the toughest season I've played in? Probably yes. When people talk about the top teams, they talk about Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea. They don't even talk about Spurs, who are a top team.
"They were probably the toughest team we played last year. It's going to be a really tough league.
"We know we can compete with the big boys, we did that last year. We haven't got the same spending power or maybe as big a squad, but we have got a great bunch of lads who enjoy playing together.
"Of course it's important to get off to a good start and Chelsea will be saying the same thing, at home to West Ham. First game of the season, new manager, a lot of millions of pounds worth of new signings, and a lot of new hope at Chelsea.
"To be honest I'm looking forward to it, getting the pre-season games out of the way and getting back down to business with proper football matches."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A message to supporters from the Vice-Chairman - WHUFC Official Site
With the Hammers' Premier League curtain-raiser at London Stadium drawing ever nearer, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady has written to supporters…
West Ham United's opening games at London Stadium have been hugely successful in terms of record crowds, supporters' feedback on the Stadium, the atmosphere and the matchday experience.
However, the Club has also been alerted by a number of supporters to incidents where individual fans or small groups are standing up throughout, spoiling the views for other fans sitting behind them, and refusing to sit down even when asked by their fellow supporters to do so.
It is enormously disappointing that a large number of children, elderly supporters and, in particular, those with disabilities had their enjoyment of these opening games affected by the decision of individuals in the rows in front of them to stand throughout the games.
As a family Club, with in excess of 10,000 Under-16 Season Ticket Holders at our new home, we believe it is unacceptable that the experience of our youngest and oldest fans should be affected in this way.
We would therefore appeal to all fans to show due respect and consideration to those around and behind them, especially for children, the elderly and those with disabilities, and remain seated during future matches at London Stadium.
Supporters are reminded that the regulations which govern all Premier League clubs state:
"Persistent standing in seated areas whilst play is in progress is strictly forbidden, and may result in ejection from the ground."
Therefore, those who stand persistently are at risk of having their Season Tickets permanently revoked. We are obviously reluctant to take any such action against loyal fans, and we hope that we will not be put in that position.
Supporters should note that Stadium stewards have been strongly briefed on the matter and are acting on the Club's authority.
With sell-out crowds attending West Ham fixtures this season, we want them all to enjoy every second of the action in comfort and safety, especially that new generation of Hammers fans able to attend our matches for the first time.
We absolutely appreciate that this is a momentous time for the Club and supporters, naturally, are excited. This is a learning curve for us all but we must start the way we mean to go on.
So we urge all our supporters to play their part, stay seated so that everyone can see and enjoy the game, and join together in creating a new era in our Club's great history.
Baroness Brady CBE
Vice-Chairman
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers launch Premier League season - WHUFC Official Site
Slaven Bilic, Mark Noble and representatives from the West Ham United Foundation were on hand early on Wednesday to mark the official launch of the new 2016/17 Premier League season.
Following the successful opening of the Club's fantastic new home last week, both Bilic and Noble were in good spirits as they prepare for the new campaign.
Starting with a mouth-watering London derby away at rivals Chelsea on Monday, the Hammers will then host AFC Bournemouth the following Sunday, in the very first Premier League fixture at London Stadium.
Looking ahead to the start of the new Premier League campaign, Bilic said: "We know it's a long season, so we want to start good. We've had a good pre-season, now we have five big games between now and the first international break.
"We are confident, we have some very good new players and we are definitely ready for the start of the new season."
Club captain Mark Noble was equally as excited, looking ahead to the season opener at Stamford Bridge, he said: "We've got three games coming up in a week, but at the moment the Chelsea game is the only one I'm thinking about.
"It's a great game for our fans, against our rivals, under the lights. It'll be tough, they've got some great players and a new manager. But saying that, we're confident, we've got a good squad and we've bonded well. It should be a great game, I can't wait really."
The launch event at Market Road, Islington was also a fantastic occasion for West Ham United Foundation youngsters to showcase their skills, with the added incentive of playing in front of the first team manager and club captain.
Having been invited to the launch as one of only four Premier League clubs, the Hammers were in good company alongside Leicester City's Claudio Ranieri and Wes Morgan, Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Jack Wilshere as well as Premier League new-boys Sean Dyche and Tom Heaton.
The tournament, a fitting curtain-raiser for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling seasons to date, was made up of participants from the four club's Foundations.
Each team was represented by a Premier League Kicks and School Sport side, which had the chance to showcase the incredible work that takes place in the community via football clubs and Premier League funding.
Skipper Noble watched on as West Ham's Premier League Kicks team beat both Arsenal and Leicester 3-0, before winning 4-1 against Premier League new boys Burnley.
Noble was not just a spectator though; the Canning Town born captain rallied the young Irons with an inspiring pre-match talk before taking part in a Q&A with the School Sport team.
The day, however, was less about winning football matches and more about celebrating the great work carried out by community schemes. Foundation participants flittered between football and multi-sports, testing themselves in handball and athletics, demonstrating the diverse programmes on offer from the Premier League.
Speaking after a successful morning's work, Foundation Development Officer George Chukwuma, who coincidentally went to the same primary school as Noble, beamed: "It's great to be able to showcase what our Foundation is all about, and to celebrate the good work Foundations do across the country.
"The support and funding the Premier League give us is massive. To be part of the official launch of the new Premier League season is very special. We're delighted to be part of today's launch, and delighted with how well we did because a lot of hard work has gone into it!"
To find out more about how to get involved in our Premier League funded projects, contact WHU Foundation Community Manager Shamajul Motin at smotin@westhamunited.co.uk
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonathan Calleri: Argentina striker joins West Ham on season-long loan - BBC Sport
West Ham have signed Argentina striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan from Uruguay's Deportivo Maldonado.
The 22-year-old represented his country, who were eliminated in the group stage, at Rio 2016 and will arrive in London next week.
Calleri spent the first six months of the year on loan with Brazilian side Sao Paulo and was top scorer in the Copa Libertadores.
"He is a top striker," West Ham manager Slaven Bilic told the club's website.
"Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics this week, so he should be here with us pretty soon, depending on the work permit."
West Ham open their Premier League campaign away at Chelsea on Monday and Bilic says he is unlikely to add to his squad.
The Croatian added that reports he was in the market for "five more players" following West Ham's Europa League win over NK Domzale last week were incorrect.
"No, no, we were expecting some to come back and some who were injured. We signed what we have signed and we are happy with that," said Bilic.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Back in time: Making sense of Macari - thewesthamway
by ExWHUEmployee on 11 August 2016 at 5:24pm
Lou Macari
West Ham Way columnist Sid Lambert (@sid_lambert) goes back to 1989 and a controversial period in West Ham's history.
He was gone. We had a feeling it was coming but now, flicking routinely through page 302 on Ceefax, the news was there to see in that flickering blue BBC font. John Lyall had been sacked as manager of West Ham United. Lyall had been the constant through my early years of supporting the claret and blue. A throwback to yesteryear when West Ham managers, coaches and senior players would huddle around tables in greasy spoons and pontificate on the beautiful game.
In these times of Moneyball and in-play Opta stats, it's hard to believe Ron Greenwood would explain his football philosophy with little more than salt, pepper and a bottle of ketchup at his disposal. Lyall served his apprenticeship under Greenwood and took over the hotseat when the latter departed for national service. He had been at the club for thirty-four years as player, coach and manager.
He'd guided us to within a whisker of the title in 1986. With the likes of Frank McAvennie, Tony Cottee, and Alvin Martin approaching their peak years, the prospect of silverware returning to East London seemed very real. The decline had been as stark as it was unexpected.
The game was changing. Under the tutelage of FA supremo Charles Hughes, English football was becoming a low-risk, percentage game with an emphasis on direct play. It was boring, repetitive stuff, the very anti-thesis of Lyall's expansive philosophy.
Unfortunately, it was was also very effective. West Ham were being out-fought on the Saturday afternoon battlefields of the First Division. The team had developed a soft centre and Lyall, despite the protestations of senior players, had been unable to bring in suitable reinforcements. Far from strengthening the squad of 86, the club had slowly begun to cash in on their prize assets. McAvennie and Cottee departed for pastures new. Cut-price alternatives such as David Kelly and Leroy Rosenior were poor substitutes.
In the space of just three years, the team had gone from front-runners to relegation fodder.
Something had to change. Like many, I assumed that loyal servant Billy Bonds would be the man to rebuild the ailing club. The board disagreed. The club didn't need rebuilding. It needed a short, sharp shock to reboot the system entirely. That shock came in the shape of Lou Macari.
The Scot was unmistakeably one of the new breed. A strict disciplinarian, he'd turned Swindon into a robotic outfit that had achieved two promotions. There was no questioning the efficacy of his approach. However, some twenty years before Sam Allardyce found himself in a similar predicament, West Ham fans wondered whether that ethos was the right fit for a club that believed in attractive football.
The answer became clear the moment Macari set foot on the training ground. Like many managers following a legacy, Macari made the mistake of changing too much too soon. There would be no patient build-up. It was all about percentages. Get the ball forward early and fight for the scraps.
For artisans like Liam Brady, Mark Ward and Alan Devonshire, it was their worst nightmare. And before long, other members of the team expressed their doubts about the new manager.
That lack of confidence manifested on the pitch. It soon became clear that this was a team lacking an identity.
There were brief high spots, such as a 5-0 home win over Sunderland. But there were too many lacklustre showings. Defeats to the likes of Bradford and Oldham saw us plummet to eleventh position at Christmas.
Goals had been a problem all season. Eamonn Dolan and Stuart Slater were inexperienced, Rosenior was blighted by injury and the ever-unpopular Kelly never recovered from the crisis of confidence that beset his first season.
Macari's response was ruthless. If the current squad wouldn't fit his system, he'd find players who would. Out went Ward and in came Ian Bishop and Trevor Morley from Manchester City. Martin Allen and Colin Foster brought extra steel to the side and the giant figure of Ludek Miklosko, whose name gave Capital Gold commentators sleepless nights, arrived from Czechoslovakia.
The flurry of signings wasn't a guarantee of instant results. They needed time to bed into their new surroundings.
Time was a luxury not afforded to Macari.
A disastrous 1-0 defeat to Torquay in the FA Cup cranked up the pressure. And he was being investigated by the authorities for a betting scandal furing his time at Swindon..
He failed to appear in the away dugout for a visit to his old club and his reign ended in ignominy. Emlyn Hughes used his national newspaper column to accuse Macari of running scared, though "Crazy Horse" himself back tracked rather quickly when the ICF took exception to any criticism of their beloved club. It was left to Billy Bonds to see the season through and steady the sinking ship.
Time has not brought fondness to reflections on the Macari era. According to many, he was one of the worst managers in our long history. On a purely results basis, it is hard to disagree. He left a divided dressing room and a team struggling desperately for direction.
However, in that dressing room were names that would play an important part in restoring – and retaining – our top-flight status. Allen, Bishop and Morley were mainstays of the mid-Nineties, whilst Ludo became one of the finest glovemen to grace Upton Park.
You would think that those signings alone would offer Macari some sort of reprieve. But prowess in the transfer market doesn't a good West Ham manager make. You have to understand the heart and soul of a club that will always prize romance over results-driven football.
Just ask Big Sam.
Follow Sid on Twitter @sid_lambert for more reflections on football past and present.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Introduce safe standing, urges new report - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 11th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
A new report has called upon the Government to investigate the possibility of re-introducing safe standing at football in England.
The Adam Smith Institute, an independent think tank/quango has written to Sports Minister Tracey Crouch urging her to repeal the ban on standing at professional clubs.
The organisation claim that there is no reason to continue with all-seater stadiums, whilst insisting that the vast majority of football supporters would like to see safe standing areas introduced.
Ben Southwood, the Instutute's Head of Research told the FSF that a blanket ban on standing was now completely outdated. "The ban is an anachronism," he said. "Clubs across Europe have rail seating sections with no incident, creating superior atmosphere and allowing for a cheaper tier of tickets.
"Unlike the adversarial attitude police, club organisations and fans had during the dark days of the 1980s, we now know how to manage large crowds well. The ban doesn't fit. Tracey Crouch doesn't need to pass a law, she has the power to simply undo the prohibition on safe standing—and she should."
Scottish Premier League side Celtic re-introduced a safe standing area at Celtic Park this summer. Around 2,900 places were made available to those who wish to stand throughout a match.
And even some of those affected in the past by tragedy believe safe standing is the way to go; David Lafferty was at the 1971 Glasgow derby in which 66 Rangers fans died following a crush, but firmly believes seating should be reintroduced.
"I'm a season ticket holder in the safe standing area of Celtic Park and this is the same area where we stood even before the new safety barriers were installed," he said.
"I can assure everyone that we have so much room and each and every seat has its own safety barrier. I have been to many stadiums around Europe including Anfield and I can assure the families of the 96 that I have never felt safer in any stadium as in our new section."
Rather closer to home, the move to bring back standing on the terraces has been consistently backed by West Ham's co-owner David Gold, who took to Twitter yesterday to reiterate his stance in the wake of critcism concerning West Ham's move to Stratford.
I support SAFE standing but the law has to be changed for that to happen. I do not support antisocial standing. dg
— David Gold (@davidgold) August 10, 2016
Gold was commenting in the wake of heavy criticism regarding the migration policy that has led to numerous problems between West Ham supporters at the Olympic Stadium, some of whom wish to stand and others who prefer to sit.
You may read the Adam Smith Institute's full report into the viability of safe standing on their website.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic confirms Calleri arrival - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 11th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has confirmed that West Ham have completed the signing of Argentine Olympic squad member Jonathan Calleri.
Bilic, speaking to the media this morning ahead of the Premier League clash with Chelsea on Monday confirmed that the 22-year-old will arrive at West Ham shortly, following his team's surprise exit from the Olympics overnight at the hands of Honduras, who they needed to beat but could only draw 1-1 with.
"We signed Calleri," he confirmed during this morning's presser. "Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics on Wednesday.
"They didn't pass the group stage so he should be here with us – not today, not tomorrow, but pretty soon, depending on work permit or whatever. We did the deal not a long time ago but not yesterday.
"He is a top striker as well. You need a squad, but it is also about the balance."
Calleri, who spent the latter half of last season at Sao Paolo in set to join West Ham on a season-long loan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Who is Jonathan Calleri? Profile of West Ham's new loan signing - SkySports
By Tom Robinson
Last Updated: 11/08/16 6:50pm
West Ham have added another striker to their ranks with the season-long loan signing of Jonathan Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado.
Having starred alongside Hammers' idol Carlos Tevez for Boca and finished as top scorer of this year's Copa Libertadores, Calleri has forged a reputation as one of the most exciting young strikers in South America.
So what can West Ham fans expect from new signing Calleri…
Profile
Age: 22
Position: Striker
Nationality: Argentine
International Caps: 0 (5 caps, 1 goal for U23s)
Background
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri followed in the footsteps of his uncle, former Argentina international Nestor Fabbri, by making his formative steps at Club Atletico All Boys - a small but historic club nestled in the Floresta neighbourhood of the capital, where Tevez also began his career.
Like Tevez, Calleri's next destination was Boca Juniors. His record of six goals in 30 appearances for relegated All Boys meant that he arrived at the Bombonera in July 2014 without much of a fanfare, and initially struggled for game-time under legendary coach Carlos Bianchi.
Nevertheless, he forced his way into the first team with six goals in 15 matches, finishing the Torneo Transicion as Boca's top scorer.
The arrival of Rodolfo Arruabarrena in the dugout brought about a focus on youth and Calleri became a regular, scoring 15 goals in all competitions as Boca won a league and cup double.
The arrival of Carlos Tevez midway through the season proved to be the catalyst for Boca's success and Calleri immediately struck up a prolific partnership with the former West Ham player.
Calleri's economic rights were bought by Uruguayan side Deportivo Maldonado at the beginning of 2016 and the striker was close to joining Inter Milan before eventually signing for Sao Paulo on a six-month loan.
The 22-year-old quickly adapted to life in Brazil and was the top scorer in the Copa Libertadores with nine goals in 12 games as Sao Paulo reached the semi-finals.
This summer, Calleri lead the line for Argentina in the Olympic Games in Rio, scoring once against Honduras before they crashed out at the group stage.
Style
Combining technique, power and tireless work-rate, Calleri looks to be a good fit for the hi-octane world of the Premier League.
Despite not being the tallest at 5ft 10in, Calleri possesses good heading ability and has the strength to hold the ball up and link play.
His willingness to run into the channels and drift wide makes him a slightly different proposition to a traditional out-and-out striker, but he possesses the requisite movement, burst of acceleration and nous inside the box to lead the line if necessary.
Although lacking the skillset and low centre of gravity compared to fellow countrymen Sergio Aguero or Paulo Dybala, Calleri does still have the ability to conjure up a moment of magic, as demonstrated by his audacious rabona lob against Quilmes last year.
Comparisons to Gonzalo Higuain may be somewhat premature but the young Argentinian striker has proven his worth at some of the biggest clubs in South America and will relish the challenge of establishing himself in the Premier League.
How will he fit in at West Ham?
Calleri is unlikely to be first choice at London Stadium and talk of Carlos Bacca or another marquee signing being brought in could see him further down the pecking order. Still only 22, Calleri will most likely be seen as a long-term project for the future.
Nevertheless, Slaven Bilic will need to rotate his West Ham side if they are to deal with the rigours of Europa League football and, as a result, Calleri could see plenty of game time.
He has already consulted former team-mate Tevez and the presence of Manuel Lanzini should help him to settle in East London, as he attempts to emulate his fellow Argentinians.
He may still be raw but if the rough edges are polished and provided he can adapt to the tempo of English football, Calleri could well be a very shrewd signing for West Ham as they look to build on last season's seventh place finish.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham signing Andre Ayew says Dimitri Payet played big part in transfer - SkySports
By James Dale
Last Updated: 11/08/16 7:19pm
Andre Ayew says his close friendship with Dimitri Payet played a big part in his decision to join West Ham.
The 26-year-old joined the Hammers from Swansea in a £20.5m deal on Tuesday, becoming the club's record signing after eclipsing the £15m they paid to sign Andy Carroll from Liverpool in 2013.
Payet, who scored nine goals in 30 Premier League appearances last season, played with Ayew for Marseille in Ligue 1 and the new West Ham signing was not surprised by Payet's impressive campaign.
"We have a very good relationship, he's a friend," said Ayew. "I'm happy to be in the same squad as him. He's a great player, he has great quality.
"I'm not surprised with what he did last season because I even know he is going to do more this season, he has the quality to do more.
"With him, and all the other guys who have come in, with Feghouli, I had to take my time, have a discussion with the manager, he made me understand what he wanted."
Ayew scored 12 top flight goals for the Swans last season but the ambition shown by West Ham persuaded him to switch to the London club.
"I knew that this club is a very popular club, has a lot of ambitions, wants to get to another level and I want to be part of that project," he added.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Eden Hazard and Dimitri Payet: Former Lille duo face off as equals - SkySports
By Adam Bate
Last Updated: 11/08/16 4:39pm
Eden Hazard and Dimitri Payet spent a season together at Lille in 2011/12. Hazard was the star back then, but when the pair face each other for Chelsea and West Ham respectively on Monday Night Football, it will be as Premier League equals, writes Adam Bate.
Dimitri Payet's difficult beginnings in football are well known. Kicked out of Le Havre as a teenager, he was sent back to his home in Reunion, 5700 miles away in the Indian Ocean. It wasn't to be the end of Payet's career - or his disciplinary problems.
Given another opportunity with Nantes, he stormed out of a 2007 training session after a row with senior goalkeeper Fabien Barthez. At Saint-Etienne in 2010, Payet struck his own captain, Blaise Matuidi, during a home defeat to Toulouse.
He went missing soon after in the hope of forcing through a transfer to Paris St Germain. "He made a blunder," said Saint-Etienne president Roland Romeyer at the time. "What kid hasn't made a mistake?" But Payet made more than most.
Flash forward six years and the West Ham man is a hero for club and country, named in the PFA Premier League team of the year and the Euro 2016 team of the tournament. At 29, he's now playing the best football of his career.
A late bloomer then, but one whose talent was never hidden. Payet's France debut had come at the age of 23, providing assists in each of his first two appearances. Damien Comolli, sporting director during Payet's stay at Saint-Etienne, hinted that any issues were in the mind.
"On a natural class level, Dimitri is stronger than a player like Luka Modric, who I saw very closely at Tottenham," Comolli told France Football in 2010. "It is a very high level. We never stopped repeating to him: 'It is only up to you.'"
It was this Payet, not the hero of France whose goal lit up the opening night of the Euros, who pitched up at Lille in 2011. The club were newly-crowned as the champions of France, winners for the first time in 50 years thank to the precocious gifts of Eden Hazard.
Lille supporters might have envisioned a perfect partnership between the two players, but it took time for the new signing to settle. Despite being four years older than Hazard, it was Payet who was the one still learning to make the most of his ability.
He scored twice in his first 28 appearances and by the winter of 2011 found himself among the substitutes. Indeed, Payet didn't even start consecutive games alongside Hazard between November and mid-March. On-loan Joe Cole was preferred instead.
Cole has since revealed some surprise at how quickly Payet made his impact at West Ham, having assumed it might take his former team-mate "six, seven, eight months to settle down" in England, but this was understandable based on the evidence of their time at Lille.
Expressing himself alongside Hazard was a problem for a Payet. "I'm asking him to do different things to Saint-Etienne," said Lille coach Rudi Garcia. "It's logical that it takes time. The competition should push him to excel. Dimitri must display confidence, he must let go."
Within months, he was starting to do just that. A goal in a 3-0 win at Evian sparked a run of three consecutive games in which Payet found the net. Finally, Garcia got to see the player he'd bought and finally there was a glimpse of what Payet and Hazard could do together.
"It is interesting when he is in close proximity to Eden because they get along well on and off the field," said Garcia. "The potential was there, we knew that. But beyond that there was a real confidence problem with him. The difference is that he is now full of confidence."
Look hard enough and there were signs of the Payet who'd emerge. While it was Hazard who topped Lille's charts for goals and assists - recording a league record number of the latter - it was actually Payet who created more chances per minute than the team's star.
Lille in 2011/12
Eden Hazard Dimitri Payet
Goals 20 6
Assists 16 6
Shots per 90 3.0 3.2
Dribbles per 90 2.5 1.2
Chances created per 90 2.6 2.7
Following Hazard's departure that summer, he went on to enjoy the joint-best goalscoring season of his career to date. It earned Payet a move to Marseille and, eventually, an unlikely link-up with Marcelo Bielsa that would help take his career to another level.
It was after one particular Bielsa team-talk that Payet turned to goalkeeper Steve Mandanda and said: "Now I can die for him." Despite the coach's nickname being El Loco, it was Bielsa's calm that impressed Payet. He responded by matching Hazard's Ligue 1 assists record from 2011/12.
The Argentine trusted Payet, turning him into the team's playmaker. It helped prepare him for the move to England that Cole had recommended three years earlier, seizing it in style to become West Ham's most thrilling performer and win a France recall in the process.
He took his chance at Euro 2016 too, forcing his way into Didier Deschamps' starting line-up and scoring that winner against Romania. "You have to say thanks to West Ham," said team-mate Patrice Evra afterwards, "because you can see now that he takes responsibility."
In truth, Payet has had many influences. The credit should be shared. From the wasted chances as a teenager through to the faith of the coaches who've been so emphatically rewarded, it has been quite the journey to the top. Team-mates played their part too.
Chelsea vs West Ham
"I have been helped by the top players at all the clubs I have played for," he said recently. "When you are playing with such good players it does make things easier but I also feel that you can learn new things at all ages... My maturity has helped me see things differently."
Payet learnt from Hazard and has become a different player today to the one he'd been at Lille. In fact, having outshone his old friend in the Premier League last season, perhaps he's even now looking like the senior man that he is. But the real indication of Payet's progress is that this Monday they will face each other as equals.
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Cheikhou Kouyate delighted to welcome Dimitri Payet back to pre-season training
Senegal star scored West Ham United's first-ever goal at London Stadium
No8 is targeting another strong season in Claret and Blue - his third as a Hammer
Cheikhou Kouyate has welcomed Dimitri Payet back to the West Ham United squad after a deserved summer break.
The Hammer of the Year returned for pre-season training on Friday – the morning after Kouyate had bagged the historic first goal at the Club's new London Stadium home – after a storybook Euro 2016 with France.
The outstanding playmaker and Senegal midfielder dovetailed superbly during their first season as teammates, and Kouyate cannot wait to have Payet back on the pitch with him again when the Premier League season kicks-off at Chelsea on Monday evening.
"He is the best player at West Ham so all eyes will be focused on him now," said Kouyate. "We will need him to play well for West Ham this season. Yes, Manchester City and Manchester United have nice teams but we are looking forward to playing them."
While the presence of Payet and a host of other top-class players will give West Ham plenty of reasons for optimism for 2016/17, the No8 knows West Ham can take nothing for granted.
With Monday's hosts, Manchester City, Manchester United, Everton and Southampton all bringing in new managers and players galore, Kouyate says Slaven Bilic's squad need to hit top form as quickly as possible if they are to improve on last season's seventh-place finish.
That said, he is not ruling anything out!
He is the best player at West Ham so all eyes will be focused on him now Cheikhou Kouyate on Dimitri Payet
"We must stay humble, keep our feet on the ground," said Kouyate. "All the games will be very difficult, we know that.
"But nothing is impossible in football now. If we keep together, anything is possible. Yes, it is possible for us to get to the Champions League. Why not?
"We all get on very well and we have a captain in Mark Noble who is fantastic and so good for the team. He motivates all the players. If you play as a team and work hard you can achieve a lot."
Finally, Kouyate found time to reflect on his historic goal, which he netted just eight minutes into West Ham's life at their new home.
The African's flicked finish set his team on their way to a 3-0 UEFA Europa League third qualifying round win over NK Domzale, setting up a play-off round rematch with Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu for a place in the group stage.
"I am so proud to have scored the first goal," he smiled. "The game was very important for the Club.
"This is a very big memory for me, a big moment. Historic. I don't think the people who came to watch expected me to score the first goal!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan deal agreed for Calleri - WHUFC Official Site
West Ham United are delighted to confirm a deal has been agreed to sign Argentinean striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan, subject to international clearance.
A loan fee and personal terms have been agreed with Calleri and his club Deportivo Maldonado and the 22-year-old is expected to arrive in London next week.
The exciting frontman will link up with the Hammers after appearing and scoring for his country at the Rio Olympic Games, and on the back of a prolific 18 months at club level.
Manager Slaven Bilic says the capture of Calleri, who finished as leading scorer at the 2016 Copa Libertadores, will add balance to the Hammers' attacking options.
"We have agreed to sign Calleri," he said "Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics this week, so he should be here with us pretty soon, depending on the work permit.
"We did the deal a little while ago, and he is a top striker. You need a squad, of course, but it is all about the balance. I think we have a good balance."
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his career with Primera Division side All Boys, making his senior debut at the age of 19 in August 2013.
The young forward's ability and promise attracted the attention of Argentina's biggest clubs and it was no surprise when legendary South American coach Carlos Bianchi took him to Boca Juniors in July 2014.
There, Calleri netted his first goal on his second start at Estudiantes before celebrating his 20th birthday with the winner against local rivals Racing Club.
The busy South American fixture list saw Calleri amass an impressive 53 appearances, 21 goals and eleven assists in a successful 18-month spell with Boca that saw him win the Primera Division and Copa Argentina double in late 2015.
The exciting youngster joined Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado in January 2016 and was soon loaned to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo.
Calleri spent six months in southern Brazil, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances, including an impressive nine in 12 Copa Libertadores ties – the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – as Sao Paulo reached the semi-finals.
After the deal is complete, he will become the sixth Argentine to play for West Ham after Lionel Scaloni, Javier Mascherano, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Zarate and current star Manuel Lanzini.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Founders feedback update - WHUFC Official Site
Two games into life at London Stadium and West Ham United continue to receive hundreds of emails from supporters each day sharing their feedback of the Hammers' new home. It is a vital way to communicate with the Club's loyal supporters and we promise we read each and every one. They help to shape the action taken to improve your experiences at the Stadium, so please keep emailing us your thoughts, good and bad!
Happily, supporters have informed us that the return journey to Stratford Station following the Betway Cup was a significant improvement on Thursday night. On a similar note, fans remarked that they were pleased to see concessions remaining open after the final whistle, so that they could enjoy refreshments on the concourse while waiting for the crowds to disperse. We will ensure the caterers continue to do this.
On the flip side, supporters have commented on the length of queues and the time it is taking to be served at half time. The Club met with the Stadium's caterers Delaware North on Wednesday and asked them to address this issue as a matter of urgency and to continue to optimise the offers and availability based on the learnings of these first two fixtures. They have given us their assurances that they will do this.
Additionally, lots of you have asked whether some sort of shelving could be installed on the concourse, to make it easier to juggle food and drink. The Club have spoken to the Stadium operators LS185 and will report back on when this will be installed.
With regard to transport, many supporters have written to inform us of some failures in the service on Abellio Greater Anglia services. While this is obviously beyond the Club's jurisdiction, our Vice-Chairman Karren Brady has written to the UK Managing Director of Abellio Greater Anglia to share your feedback. We know they want to provide a good service so we are very hopeful that they will make some significant improvements and we will of course keep you informed as to the response we get.
Inside the Stadium, supporters continue to raise the topic of standing during the game. We are pleased to note that some Season Ticket Holders in the East Stand confirmed that the situation had improved since Thursday's Europa League opener, but it remains an issue elsewhere in the ground, particularly where the views of disabled supporters are being impeded.
We implore supporters to be respectful and considerate of their fellow Hammers and fans should note that Stadium stewards are acting on the Club's authority. The Vice-Chairman has since written to supporters on this very subject.
It has also been brought to the Club's attention that supporters are taking alcoholic drinks into the Stadium bowl. While we appreciate that supporters will have enjoyed doing so during the Olympic Games and at more recent athletics meets, we must remind supporters that the legislation in the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985 dictates that supporters cannot consume alcohol in view of the pitch and it is against the law to do so.
Finally, supporters should rest assured that the current covering between the pitch and stands is merely a temporary measure and will be replaced, in its entirety, with Astroturf ahead of the Premier League curtain-raiser against Bournemouth. Likewise, the installation of bold West Ham branding has begun to be installed at the back of the relocatable seating in the West Stand and is expected to be in situ for Sunday 21 August, while the world-class Stadium wrap will also be complete.
Thank you for all of your emails to foundersfeedback@westhamunited.co.uk and do keep them coming. Together, we will continue to improve the matchday experience at London Stadium.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Speaks - Chelsea - WHUFC Official Site
Slaven Bilic relishing Premier League curtain raiser against Chelsea on Monday
Manager looking forward to duel with new Blues boss Antonio Conte
Gaffer gives update on squad ahead of big kick-off
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic cannot wait for his team's new Premier League season to get underway at Chelsea on Monday night.
The Hammers head across London to face Antonio Conte's team as the Italian takes to the dugout for the first time as Blues boss.
Bilic says West Ham have prepared well for the new campaign and are ready to mix it once again with the league's biggest teams.
Slaven, how excited and how ready are you for the new Premier League season?
SB: "We're excited, of course. It starts for us on Monday, we did a good pre-season and we are ready for the start. We have a good squad – we've kept most of the players and we've added some players too. We are expecting them to improve us – we'd expect that even without them because we have been together for a year now and had a good last season.
"We are expecting a good season, of course."
What are you expecting from Chelsea?
SB: "A tough game, a good game against a big club with a new manager. He is a great manager – he did a terrific job with Juventus and with Italy. He is one of those who wants to put his stamp on the team, not just continue what the previous managers have done, but to change the way they approach the game. Change the principles and nature of the game.
"He's one of them, that's why I rate him so highly. Is he going to do it straight away? It is more difficult of course to change the long-term habits that players have had, especially when they are big players at a big club. But, I'm sure he is going to do a good job there."
You and your team had a lot of good results against top teams in the league early last season. Is that something that will give this squad confidence going into this season?
SB: "In one way yes, in the other way it's very dangerous. If we think we've got good results against most of them last season and we're going to do it now by default, it doesn't happen by default.
"But it's a good memory, it's a good experience, it's a good pattern that we know very recently we have done this, this, this and this. If we do those basic things again in terms of compactness, togetherness, team spirit and humility, then of course it's good to rely on the knowledge that you have done those things against those clubs in those circumstances."
Are you missing any players for Monday's game?
SB: "Usually we have a press conference a day or a couple of days before a game, but this week we are speaking four days before the match. We may say that's not a lot, but with the players that signed for us only a couple of days ago, plus the players who came back from a longer break because of the Euros, two days or four days matters a lot.
"We will see how we are going to start on Monday night. There are not many tactical differences, we have Plan A and Plan B. We have that already, but it is still very open on a couple of positions for who is going to start and which players are likely to finish the game.
"With some players you want to have them on the pitch for the last 15 minutes, so we are going to see."
What about Dimitri Payet?
SB: "He is one of them, yes. He came back in really good shape so he doesn't need a long pre-season individually. He's not fit for 90 minutes, so we will see, but he came back in really good shape, motivated and everything."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Treatment Room - WHUFC Official Site
The latest injury news with Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke - in association with Spire Roding Hospital...
Hello everyone,
We are in the final few days of preparations for the new Premier League season at our new Training Ground at Rush Green, and all of the players and staff are looking forward to an exciting trip to Chelsea on Monday evening.
I would like to start by welcoming Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku to West Ham United. Both are fit and ready to go.
They have been training with their previous clubs and joined us with similar levels of fitness as the rest of the squad which is good, but new players are always a little bit more at risk.
This week we have encouraging news regarding Manuel Lanzini, Aaron Cresswell and Gokhan Tore.
Manuel injured his knee while on Olympic Games duty with Argentina. He was wearing a knee brace for four weeks. Manuel is out of the brace and has entered a new phase in his rehab and started running on Wednesday.
Aaron injured his knee in the pre-season match with Karlsruher in Austria. He did not require an operation and is making very good progress. Aaron has been wearing a brace and using crutches for a few weeks.
He has now started walking with the brace, partially weight bearing. On Sunday we will take the brace off and progress to the next steps in his rehabilitation process.
Gokhan got injured in the final training session in Slovenia before our UEFA Europa League first leg with Domzale.
He had a significant trauma to his knee and rehabbed very well with our medical team and rehab fitness coach Eamon Swift, finishing those sessions on Wednesday. He will resume training with the squad today.
Diafra Sakho is undertaking an individual training programme and is working hard to attain the right level of fitness to join the squad as soon as he can.
Finally, Cheikhou Kouyate, Pedro Obiang and Darren Randolph picked up minor knocks in the Domzale home leg and we didn't want to take any chances, so they were not involved in the Juventus game. They all trained without any problems on Wednesday and are fit for selection against Chelsea.
Enjoy the weekend and the start of the new Premier League season!
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble - It's a competitive league - WHUFC Official Site
Mark Noble says the Hammers can lay down a marker ahead of what promises to be the most competitive of Premier League seasons when they travel to Chelsea on Monday evening.
With plenty of change in terms of personnel, both managerial and playing-wise at the teams chasing league glory – not to mention last year's top two Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur looking to mount challenges again – the level of intrigue has been ramped up to the max as the new season get underway.
The Hammers face one of those sides to change bosses, and with Antonio Conte in the dugout for the first time, Noble is looking forward to the challenge, both on Monday and all season long.
He said: "We've got seven or eight of the best ten or eleven managers in Europe in the Premier League now. We've got some of the best players too – Paul Pogba's just come here for £100m, Ibrahimovic, the players who Man City have signed and I'm pretty sure there'll be a lot more to come from the top clubs.
"Do I think this is going to be the toughest season I've played in? Probably yes. When people talk about the top teams, they talk about Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea. They don't even talk about Spurs, who are a top team.
"They were probably the toughest team we played last year. It's going to be a really tough league.
"We know we can compete with the big boys, we did that last year. We haven't got the same spending power or maybe as big a squad, but we have got a great bunch of lads who enjoy playing together.
"Of course it's important to get off to a good start and Chelsea will be saying the same thing, at home to West Ham. First game of the season, new manager, a lot of millions of pounds worth of new signings, and a lot of new hope at Chelsea.
"To be honest I'm looking forward to it, getting the pre-season games out of the way and getting back down to business with proper football matches."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A message to supporters from the Vice-Chairman - WHUFC Official Site
With the Hammers' Premier League curtain-raiser at London Stadium drawing ever nearer, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady has written to supporters…
West Ham United's opening games at London Stadium have been hugely successful in terms of record crowds, supporters' feedback on the Stadium, the atmosphere and the matchday experience.
However, the Club has also been alerted by a number of supporters to incidents where individual fans or small groups are standing up throughout, spoiling the views for other fans sitting behind them, and refusing to sit down even when asked by their fellow supporters to do so.
It is enormously disappointing that a large number of children, elderly supporters and, in particular, those with disabilities had their enjoyment of these opening games affected by the decision of individuals in the rows in front of them to stand throughout the games.
As a family Club, with in excess of 10,000 Under-16 Season Ticket Holders at our new home, we believe it is unacceptable that the experience of our youngest and oldest fans should be affected in this way.
We would therefore appeal to all fans to show due respect and consideration to those around and behind them, especially for children, the elderly and those with disabilities, and remain seated during future matches at London Stadium.
Supporters are reminded that the regulations which govern all Premier League clubs state:
"Persistent standing in seated areas whilst play is in progress is strictly forbidden, and may result in ejection from the ground."
Therefore, those who stand persistently are at risk of having their Season Tickets permanently revoked. We are obviously reluctant to take any such action against loyal fans, and we hope that we will not be put in that position.
Supporters should note that Stadium stewards have been strongly briefed on the matter and are acting on the Club's authority.
With sell-out crowds attending West Ham fixtures this season, we want them all to enjoy every second of the action in comfort and safety, especially that new generation of Hammers fans able to attend our matches for the first time.
We absolutely appreciate that this is a momentous time for the Club and supporters, naturally, are excited. This is a learning curve for us all but we must start the way we mean to go on.
So we urge all our supporters to play their part, stay seated so that everyone can see and enjoy the game, and join together in creating a new era in our Club's great history.
Baroness Brady CBE
Vice-Chairman
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers launch Premier League season - WHUFC Official Site
Slaven Bilic, Mark Noble and representatives from the West Ham United Foundation were on hand early on Wednesday to mark the official launch of the new 2016/17 Premier League season.
Following the successful opening of the Club's fantastic new home last week, both Bilic and Noble were in good spirits as they prepare for the new campaign.
Starting with a mouth-watering London derby away at rivals Chelsea on Monday, the Hammers will then host AFC Bournemouth the following Sunday, in the very first Premier League fixture at London Stadium.
Looking ahead to the start of the new Premier League campaign, Bilic said: "We know it's a long season, so we want to start good. We've had a good pre-season, now we have five big games between now and the first international break.
"We are confident, we have some very good new players and we are definitely ready for the start of the new season."
Club captain Mark Noble was equally as excited, looking ahead to the season opener at Stamford Bridge, he said: "We've got three games coming up in a week, but at the moment the Chelsea game is the only one I'm thinking about.
"It's a great game for our fans, against our rivals, under the lights. It'll be tough, they've got some great players and a new manager. But saying that, we're confident, we've got a good squad and we've bonded well. It should be a great game, I can't wait really."
The launch event at Market Road, Islington was also a fantastic occasion for West Ham United Foundation youngsters to showcase their skills, with the added incentive of playing in front of the first team manager and club captain.
Having been invited to the launch as one of only four Premier League clubs, the Hammers were in good company alongside Leicester City's Claudio Ranieri and Wes Morgan, Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Jack Wilshere as well as Premier League new-boys Sean Dyche and Tom Heaton.
The tournament, a fitting curtain-raiser for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling seasons to date, was made up of participants from the four club's Foundations.
Each team was represented by a Premier League Kicks and School Sport side, which had the chance to showcase the incredible work that takes place in the community via football clubs and Premier League funding.
Skipper Noble watched on as West Ham's Premier League Kicks team beat both Arsenal and Leicester 3-0, before winning 4-1 against Premier League new boys Burnley.
Noble was not just a spectator though; the Canning Town born captain rallied the young Irons with an inspiring pre-match talk before taking part in a Q&A with the School Sport team.
The day, however, was less about winning football matches and more about celebrating the great work carried out by community schemes. Foundation participants flittered between football and multi-sports, testing themselves in handball and athletics, demonstrating the diverse programmes on offer from the Premier League.
Speaking after a successful morning's work, Foundation Development Officer George Chukwuma, who coincidentally went to the same primary school as Noble, beamed: "It's great to be able to showcase what our Foundation is all about, and to celebrate the good work Foundations do across the country.
"The support and funding the Premier League give us is massive. To be part of the official launch of the new Premier League season is very special. We're delighted to be part of today's launch, and delighted with how well we did because a lot of hard work has gone into it!"
To find out more about how to get involved in our Premier League funded projects, contact WHU Foundation Community Manager Shamajul Motin at smotin@westhamunited.co.uk
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonathan Calleri: Argentina striker joins West Ham on season-long loan - BBC Sport
West Ham have signed Argentina striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan from Uruguay's Deportivo Maldonado.
The 22-year-old represented his country, who were eliminated in the group stage, at Rio 2016 and will arrive in London next week.
Calleri spent the first six months of the year on loan with Brazilian side Sao Paulo and was top scorer in the Copa Libertadores.
"He is a top striker," West Ham manager Slaven Bilic told the club's website.
"Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics this week, so he should be here with us pretty soon, depending on the work permit."
West Ham open their Premier League campaign away at Chelsea on Monday and Bilic says he is unlikely to add to his squad.
The Croatian added that reports he was in the market for "five more players" following West Ham's Europa League win over NK Domzale last week were incorrect.
"No, no, we were expecting some to come back and some who were injured. We signed what we have signed and we are happy with that," said Bilic.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Back in time: Making sense of Macari - thewesthamway
by ExWHUEmployee on 11 August 2016 at 5:24pm
Lou Macari
West Ham Way columnist Sid Lambert (@sid_lambert) goes back to 1989 and a controversial period in West Ham's history.
He was gone. We had a feeling it was coming but now, flicking routinely through page 302 on Ceefax, the news was there to see in that flickering blue BBC font. John Lyall had been sacked as manager of West Ham United. Lyall had been the constant through my early years of supporting the claret and blue. A throwback to yesteryear when West Ham managers, coaches and senior players would huddle around tables in greasy spoons and pontificate on the beautiful game.
In these times of Moneyball and in-play Opta stats, it's hard to believe Ron Greenwood would explain his football philosophy with little more than salt, pepper and a bottle of ketchup at his disposal. Lyall served his apprenticeship under Greenwood and took over the hotseat when the latter departed for national service. He had been at the club for thirty-four years as player, coach and manager.
He'd guided us to within a whisker of the title in 1986. With the likes of Frank McAvennie, Tony Cottee, and Alvin Martin approaching their peak years, the prospect of silverware returning to East London seemed very real. The decline had been as stark as it was unexpected.
The game was changing. Under the tutelage of FA supremo Charles Hughes, English football was becoming a low-risk, percentage game with an emphasis on direct play. It was boring, repetitive stuff, the very anti-thesis of Lyall's expansive philosophy.
Unfortunately, it was was also very effective. West Ham were being out-fought on the Saturday afternoon battlefields of the First Division. The team had developed a soft centre and Lyall, despite the protestations of senior players, had been unable to bring in suitable reinforcements. Far from strengthening the squad of 86, the club had slowly begun to cash in on their prize assets. McAvennie and Cottee departed for pastures new. Cut-price alternatives such as David Kelly and Leroy Rosenior were poor substitutes.
In the space of just three years, the team had gone from front-runners to relegation fodder.
Something had to change. Like many, I assumed that loyal servant Billy Bonds would be the man to rebuild the ailing club. The board disagreed. The club didn't need rebuilding. It needed a short, sharp shock to reboot the system entirely. That shock came in the shape of Lou Macari.
The Scot was unmistakeably one of the new breed. A strict disciplinarian, he'd turned Swindon into a robotic outfit that had achieved two promotions. There was no questioning the efficacy of his approach. However, some twenty years before Sam Allardyce found himself in a similar predicament, West Ham fans wondered whether that ethos was the right fit for a club that believed in attractive football.
The answer became clear the moment Macari set foot on the training ground. Like many managers following a legacy, Macari made the mistake of changing too much too soon. There would be no patient build-up. It was all about percentages. Get the ball forward early and fight for the scraps.
For artisans like Liam Brady, Mark Ward and Alan Devonshire, it was their worst nightmare. And before long, other members of the team expressed their doubts about the new manager.
That lack of confidence manifested on the pitch. It soon became clear that this was a team lacking an identity.
There were brief high spots, such as a 5-0 home win over Sunderland. But there were too many lacklustre showings. Defeats to the likes of Bradford and Oldham saw us plummet to eleventh position at Christmas.
Goals had been a problem all season. Eamonn Dolan and Stuart Slater were inexperienced, Rosenior was blighted by injury and the ever-unpopular Kelly never recovered from the crisis of confidence that beset his first season.
Macari's response was ruthless. If the current squad wouldn't fit his system, he'd find players who would. Out went Ward and in came Ian Bishop and Trevor Morley from Manchester City. Martin Allen and Colin Foster brought extra steel to the side and the giant figure of Ludek Miklosko, whose name gave Capital Gold commentators sleepless nights, arrived from Czechoslovakia.
The flurry of signings wasn't a guarantee of instant results. They needed time to bed into their new surroundings.
Time was a luxury not afforded to Macari.
A disastrous 1-0 defeat to Torquay in the FA Cup cranked up the pressure. And he was being investigated by the authorities for a betting scandal furing his time at Swindon..
He failed to appear in the away dugout for a visit to his old club and his reign ended in ignominy. Emlyn Hughes used his national newspaper column to accuse Macari of running scared, though "Crazy Horse" himself back tracked rather quickly when the ICF took exception to any criticism of their beloved club. It was left to Billy Bonds to see the season through and steady the sinking ship.
Time has not brought fondness to reflections on the Macari era. According to many, he was one of the worst managers in our long history. On a purely results basis, it is hard to disagree. He left a divided dressing room and a team struggling desperately for direction.
However, in that dressing room were names that would play an important part in restoring – and retaining – our top-flight status. Allen, Bishop and Morley were mainstays of the mid-Nineties, whilst Ludo became one of the finest glovemen to grace Upton Park.
You would think that those signings alone would offer Macari some sort of reprieve. But prowess in the transfer market doesn't a good West Ham manager make. You have to understand the heart and soul of a club that will always prize romance over results-driven football.
Just ask Big Sam.
Follow Sid on Twitter @sid_lambert for more reflections on football past and present.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Introduce safe standing, urges new report - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 11th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
A new report has called upon the Government to investigate the possibility of re-introducing safe standing at football in England.
The Adam Smith Institute, an independent think tank/quango has written to Sports Minister Tracey Crouch urging her to repeal the ban on standing at professional clubs.
The organisation claim that there is no reason to continue with all-seater stadiums, whilst insisting that the vast majority of football supporters would like to see safe standing areas introduced.
Ben Southwood, the Instutute's Head of Research told the FSF that a blanket ban on standing was now completely outdated. "The ban is an anachronism," he said. "Clubs across Europe have rail seating sections with no incident, creating superior atmosphere and allowing for a cheaper tier of tickets.
"Unlike the adversarial attitude police, club organisations and fans had during the dark days of the 1980s, we now know how to manage large crowds well. The ban doesn't fit. Tracey Crouch doesn't need to pass a law, she has the power to simply undo the prohibition on safe standing—and she should."
Scottish Premier League side Celtic re-introduced a safe standing area at Celtic Park this summer. Around 2,900 places were made available to those who wish to stand throughout a match.
And even some of those affected in the past by tragedy believe safe standing is the way to go; David Lafferty was at the 1971 Glasgow derby in which 66 Rangers fans died following a crush, but firmly believes seating should be reintroduced.
"I'm a season ticket holder in the safe standing area of Celtic Park and this is the same area where we stood even before the new safety barriers were installed," he said.
"I can assure everyone that we have so much room and each and every seat has its own safety barrier. I have been to many stadiums around Europe including Anfield and I can assure the families of the 96 that I have never felt safer in any stadium as in our new section."
Rather closer to home, the move to bring back standing on the terraces has been consistently backed by West Ham's co-owner David Gold, who took to Twitter yesterday to reiterate his stance in the wake of critcism concerning West Ham's move to Stratford.
I support SAFE standing but the law has to be changed for that to happen. I do not support antisocial standing. dg
— David Gold (@davidgold) August 10, 2016
Gold was commenting in the wake of heavy criticism regarding the migration policy that has led to numerous problems between West Ham supporters at the Olympic Stadium, some of whom wish to stand and others who prefer to sit.
You may read the Adam Smith Institute's full report into the viability of safe standing on their website.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic confirms Calleri arrival - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 11th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has confirmed that West Ham have completed the signing of Argentine Olympic squad member Jonathan Calleri.
Bilic, speaking to the media this morning ahead of the Premier League clash with Chelsea on Monday confirmed that the 22-year-old will arrive at West Ham shortly, following his team's surprise exit from the Olympics overnight at the hands of Honduras, who they needed to beat but could only draw 1-1 with.
"We signed Calleri," he confirmed during this morning's presser. "Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics on Wednesday.
"They didn't pass the group stage so he should be here with us – not today, not tomorrow, but pretty soon, depending on work permit or whatever. We did the deal not a long time ago but not yesterday.
"He is a top striker as well. You need a squad, but it is also about the balance."
Calleri, who spent the latter half of last season at Sao Paolo in set to join West Ham on a season-long loan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Who is Jonathan Calleri? Profile of West Ham's new loan signing - SkySports
By Tom Robinson
Last Updated: 11/08/16 6:50pm
West Ham have added another striker to their ranks with the season-long loan signing of Jonathan Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado.
Having starred alongside Hammers' idol Carlos Tevez for Boca and finished as top scorer of this year's Copa Libertadores, Calleri has forged a reputation as one of the most exciting young strikers in South America.
So what can West Ham fans expect from new signing Calleri…
Profile
Age: 22
Position: Striker
Nationality: Argentine
International Caps: 0 (5 caps, 1 goal for U23s)
Background
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri followed in the footsteps of his uncle, former Argentina international Nestor Fabbri, by making his formative steps at Club Atletico All Boys - a small but historic club nestled in the Floresta neighbourhood of the capital, where Tevez also began his career.
Like Tevez, Calleri's next destination was Boca Juniors. His record of six goals in 30 appearances for relegated All Boys meant that he arrived at the Bombonera in July 2014 without much of a fanfare, and initially struggled for game-time under legendary coach Carlos Bianchi.
Nevertheless, he forced his way into the first team with six goals in 15 matches, finishing the Torneo Transicion as Boca's top scorer.
The arrival of Rodolfo Arruabarrena in the dugout brought about a focus on youth and Calleri became a regular, scoring 15 goals in all competitions as Boca won a league and cup double.
The arrival of Carlos Tevez midway through the season proved to be the catalyst for Boca's success and Calleri immediately struck up a prolific partnership with the former West Ham player.
Calleri's economic rights were bought by Uruguayan side Deportivo Maldonado at the beginning of 2016 and the striker was close to joining Inter Milan before eventually signing for Sao Paulo on a six-month loan.
The 22-year-old quickly adapted to life in Brazil and was the top scorer in the Copa Libertadores with nine goals in 12 games as Sao Paulo reached the semi-finals.
This summer, Calleri lead the line for Argentina in the Olympic Games in Rio, scoring once against Honduras before they crashed out at the group stage.
Style
Combining technique, power and tireless work-rate, Calleri looks to be a good fit for the hi-octane world of the Premier League.
Despite not being the tallest at 5ft 10in, Calleri possesses good heading ability and has the strength to hold the ball up and link play.
His willingness to run into the channels and drift wide makes him a slightly different proposition to a traditional out-and-out striker, but he possesses the requisite movement, burst of acceleration and nous inside the box to lead the line if necessary.
Although lacking the skillset and low centre of gravity compared to fellow countrymen Sergio Aguero or Paulo Dybala, Calleri does still have the ability to conjure up a moment of magic, as demonstrated by his audacious rabona lob against Quilmes last year.
Comparisons to Gonzalo Higuain may be somewhat premature but the young Argentinian striker has proven his worth at some of the biggest clubs in South America and will relish the challenge of establishing himself in the Premier League.
How will he fit in at West Ham?
Calleri is unlikely to be first choice at London Stadium and talk of Carlos Bacca or another marquee signing being brought in could see him further down the pecking order. Still only 22, Calleri will most likely be seen as a long-term project for the future.
Nevertheless, Slaven Bilic will need to rotate his West Ham side if they are to deal with the rigours of Europa League football and, as a result, Calleri could see plenty of game time.
He has already consulted former team-mate Tevez and the presence of Manuel Lanzini should help him to settle in East London, as he attempts to emulate his fellow Argentinians.
He may still be raw but if the rough edges are polished and provided he can adapt to the tempo of English football, Calleri could well be a very shrewd signing for West Ham as they look to build on last season's seventh place finish.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham signing Andre Ayew says Dimitri Payet played big part in transfer - SkySports
By James Dale
Last Updated: 11/08/16 7:19pm
Andre Ayew says his close friendship with Dimitri Payet played a big part in his decision to join West Ham.
The 26-year-old joined the Hammers from Swansea in a £20.5m deal on Tuesday, becoming the club's record signing after eclipsing the £15m they paid to sign Andy Carroll from Liverpool in 2013.
Payet, who scored nine goals in 30 Premier League appearances last season, played with Ayew for Marseille in Ligue 1 and the new West Ham signing was not surprised by Payet's impressive campaign.
"We have a very good relationship, he's a friend," said Ayew. "I'm happy to be in the same squad as him. He's a great player, he has great quality.
"I'm not surprised with what he did last season because I even know he is going to do more this season, he has the quality to do more.
"With him, and all the other guys who have come in, with Feghouli, I had to take my time, have a discussion with the manager, he made me understand what he wanted."
Ayew scored 12 top flight goals for the Swans last season but the ambition shown by West Ham persuaded him to switch to the London club.
"I knew that this club is a very popular club, has a lot of ambitions, wants to get to another level and I want to be part of that project," he added.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Eden Hazard and Dimitri Payet: Former Lille duo face off as equals - SkySports
By Adam Bate
Last Updated: 11/08/16 4:39pm
Eden Hazard and Dimitri Payet spent a season together at Lille in 2011/12. Hazard was the star back then, but when the pair face each other for Chelsea and West Ham respectively on Monday Night Football, it will be as Premier League equals, writes Adam Bate.
Dimitri Payet's difficult beginnings in football are well known. Kicked out of Le Havre as a teenager, he was sent back to his home in Reunion, 5700 miles away in the Indian Ocean. It wasn't to be the end of Payet's career - or his disciplinary problems.
Given another opportunity with Nantes, he stormed out of a 2007 training session after a row with senior goalkeeper Fabien Barthez. At Saint-Etienne in 2010, Payet struck his own captain, Blaise Matuidi, during a home defeat to Toulouse.
He went missing soon after in the hope of forcing through a transfer to Paris St Germain. "He made a blunder," said Saint-Etienne president Roland Romeyer at the time. "What kid hasn't made a mistake?" But Payet made more than most.
Flash forward six years and the West Ham man is a hero for club and country, named in the PFA Premier League team of the year and the Euro 2016 team of the tournament. At 29, he's now playing the best football of his career.
A late bloomer then, but one whose talent was never hidden. Payet's France debut had come at the age of 23, providing assists in each of his first two appearances. Damien Comolli, sporting director during Payet's stay at Saint-Etienne, hinted that any issues were in the mind.
"On a natural class level, Dimitri is stronger than a player like Luka Modric, who I saw very closely at Tottenham," Comolli told France Football in 2010. "It is a very high level. We never stopped repeating to him: 'It is only up to you.'"
It was this Payet, not the hero of France whose goal lit up the opening night of the Euros, who pitched up at Lille in 2011. The club were newly-crowned as the champions of France, winners for the first time in 50 years thank to the precocious gifts of Eden Hazard.
Lille supporters might have envisioned a perfect partnership between the two players, but it took time for the new signing to settle. Despite being four years older than Hazard, it was Payet who was the one still learning to make the most of his ability.
He scored twice in his first 28 appearances and by the winter of 2011 found himself among the substitutes. Indeed, Payet didn't even start consecutive games alongside Hazard between November and mid-March. On-loan Joe Cole was preferred instead.
Cole has since revealed some surprise at how quickly Payet made his impact at West Ham, having assumed it might take his former team-mate "six, seven, eight months to settle down" in England, but this was understandable based on the evidence of their time at Lille.
Expressing himself alongside Hazard was a problem for a Payet. "I'm asking him to do different things to Saint-Etienne," said Lille coach Rudi Garcia. "It's logical that it takes time. The competition should push him to excel. Dimitri must display confidence, he must let go."
Within months, he was starting to do just that. A goal in a 3-0 win at Evian sparked a run of three consecutive games in which Payet found the net. Finally, Garcia got to see the player he'd bought and finally there was a glimpse of what Payet and Hazard could do together.
"It is interesting when he is in close proximity to Eden because they get along well on and off the field," said Garcia. "The potential was there, we knew that. But beyond that there was a real confidence problem with him. The difference is that he is now full of confidence."
Look hard enough and there were signs of the Payet who'd emerge. While it was Hazard who topped Lille's charts for goals and assists - recording a league record number of the latter - it was actually Payet who created more chances per minute than the team's star.
Lille in 2011/12
Eden Hazard Dimitri Payet
Goals 20 6
Assists 16 6
Shots per 90 3.0 3.2
Dribbles per 90 2.5 1.2
Chances created per 90 2.6 2.7
Following Hazard's departure that summer, he went on to enjoy the joint-best goalscoring season of his career to date. It earned Payet a move to Marseille and, eventually, an unlikely link-up with Marcelo Bielsa that would help take his career to another level.
It was after one particular Bielsa team-talk that Payet turned to goalkeeper Steve Mandanda and said: "Now I can die for him." Despite the coach's nickname being El Loco, it was Bielsa's calm that impressed Payet. He responded by matching Hazard's Ligue 1 assists record from 2011/12.
The Argentine trusted Payet, turning him into the team's playmaker. It helped prepare him for the move to England that Cole had recommended three years earlier, seizing it in style to become West Ham's most thrilling performer and win a France recall in the process.
He took his chance at Euro 2016 too, forcing his way into Didier Deschamps' starting line-up and scoring that winner against Romania. "You have to say thanks to West Ham," said team-mate Patrice Evra afterwards, "because you can see now that he takes responsibility."
In truth, Payet has had many influences. The credit should be shared. From the wasted chances as a teenager through to the faith of the coaches who've been so emphatically rewarded, it has been quite the journey to the top. Team-mates played their part too.
Chelsea vs West Ham
"I have been helped by the top players at all the clubs I have played for," he said recently. "When you are playing with such good players it does make things easier but I also feel that you can learn new things at all ages... My maturity has helped me see things differently."
Payet learnt from Hazard and has become a different player today to the one he'd been at Lille. In fact, having outshone his old friend in the Premier League last season, perhaps he's even now looking like the senior man that he is. But the real indication of Payet's progress is that this Monday they will face each other as equals.
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 11
Daily WHUFC News - 11th August
Noble - It's a competitive league - WHUFC Official Site
Mark Noble says the Hammers can lay down a marker ahead of what promises to be the most competitive of Premier League seasons when they travel to Chelsea on Monday evening.
With plenty of change in terms of personnel, both managerial and playing-wise at the teams chasing league glory – not to mention last year's top two Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur looking to mount challenges again – the level of intrigue has been ramped up to the max as the new season get underway.
The Hammers face one of those sides to change bosses, and with Antonio Conte in the dugout for the first time, Noble is looking forward to the challenge, both on Monday and all season long.
He said: "We've got seven or eight of the best ten or eleven managers in Europe in the Premier League now. We've got some of the best players too – Paul Pogba's just come here for £100m, Ibrahimovic, the players who Man City have signed and I'm pretty sure there'll be a lot more to come from the top clubs.
"Do I think this is going to be the toughest season I've played in? Probably yes. When people talk about the top teams, they talk about Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea. They don't even talk about Spurs, who are a top team.
"They were probably the toughest team we played last year. It's going to be a really tough league.
"We know we can compete with the big boys, we did that last year. We haven't got the same spending power or maybe as big a squad, but we have got a great bunch of lads who enjoy playing together.
"Of course it's important to get off to a good start and Chelsea will be saying the same thing, at home to West Ham. First game of the season, new manager, a lot of millions of pounds worth of new signings, and a lot of new hope at Chelsea.
"To be honest I'm looking forward to it, getting the pre-season games out of the way and getting back down to business with proper football matches."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joe Cole in America Update
by Brian Knox on 9 August 2016 at 10:25pm
Joe Cole: This Week
By @WestHamAmerican
For those of you wondering "Where is Joe Cole?" he has taken is scoring skills to the sunny coast of Florida in the United States. The 34-year old former England midfielder currently plays for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, a club in the second tier of American soccer. The Rowdies were formed in 2008 and currently play in the same league as recent West Ham opponents Carolina Railhawks.
Cole signed with Tampa Bay in May of 2016 and immediately brought his pace and attacking style to the US gulf coast.
Most recently Tampa Bay hosted fellow Florida club, the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers, on Saturday evening. After a scoreless first half, the second half broke open when Cole's cross found Keith Savage in the box to take a 1-0 lead in the 50th minute of play.
Moments later, Cole added to the score sheet when he took a cross from his own forward, Georgi Hristov, on a counterattack and scored a goal of his own. It would be Joe Cole's 4th goal of his short time with the Rowdies. He also has 4 assists in only ten appearances. Tampa Bay took the win 2-1 despite a late goal from striker Jose Angulo.
Having an experienced professional on the pitch, surrounded by a team of young American footballers must be an asset for this ambitious club. Cole brings an 82.2% passing accuracy through the first ten matches of his career. Tampa Bay currently sits 6th in the table of 12. Their next fixture is against the New York Cosmos on Saturday.
From time to time, The West Ham Way will update you on Cole's time on the Florida Gulf Coast.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham want to finalise deal to sign Carlos Bacca for £20m as AC Milan striker looks to double his wages
By Simon Jones for MailOnline
Published: 00:52 GMT, 9 August 2016 | Updated: 12:32 GMT, 9 August 2016
West Ham are looking to get a £20m deal for Carlos Bacca done too following the arrival of Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku.
Bacca currently earns £60,000 at AC Milan and is in talks with the club over doubling his wages to £120,000 per week if he is to sign for them.
If he was to complete a move to the Olympic Stadium and have his demands met, it would put him alongside Dimitri Payet as West Ham's best paid player.
Carlos Bacca is demanding £120,000 per week if he is to join West Ham this summer
Andre Ayew left Swansea after one season to join West Ham for £20.5m - a club record
Former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Robin van Persie was offered to West Ham, but they turned down the chance to have the Fenerbahce forward.
A club record fee of £20.5m saw Ghana forward Ayew leave Swansea and become the Hammers' ninth summer signing, eclipsing the £15m paid to Liverpool to buy Andy Carroll in 2013.
French left-back Masuaku joins on a four-year contract after completing his move from Olympiakos, where he played more than a 100 times for the Greek club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham new boy Andre Ayew vows to make Dimitri Payet even better
16:58, 9 Aug 2016
Updated 17:08, 9 Aug 2016
By Adrian Kajumba
The striker joined the Hammers for £20.5m from Swansea and can't wait to link up again with his former Marseille teammate Payet
Andre Ayew reckons he can help Dimitri Payet get even better following his club record move to West Ham.
The striker joined the Hammers for £20.5m from Swansea and can't wait to link up again with his former Marseille teammate Payet.
Playmaker Payet made a £10.7m move to West Ham from the French club last season and enjoyed a stunning debut campaign in England.
Ayew said: "I know what he did last season and he can do even more, so now I'm back with him we're going to work together with the whole team and do everything possible to make things right.
Jan Kruger/Getty Player of the Year nominee Dimitri Payet
Player of the Year Dimitri Payet can get even better reckons Ayew
West Ham United via Getty West Ham United Unveil New Signing Andre Ayew
Ayew at the Olympic Stadium
"He's a friend of mine as we played two or three years together at Marseille.
"I know him and he knows me and I'm happy to be back playing with a great player like him, because I know what he is capable of doing.
"You have Dimitri, Sofiane Feghouli, Michail Antonio, Andy Carroll – the club is getting to another level and these are the players you need to get here.
"Hopefully we can keep the unity to make things work."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ayew - I can't wait to play here! - WHUFC Official Site
Andre Ayew told West Ham TV there were plenty of reasons behind his decision to become a Hammer.
The Ghana star became the Club's record signing when he completed a £20.5m move from Swansea City on Monday evening.
And in his first interview at London Stadium, the new No20 told of his respect for the Club, its big ambitions, manager Slaven Bilic, his former Marseille and now West Ham teammate Dimitri Payet and the strong squad being build to challenge on all fronts.
Andre Ayew, welcome to West Ham United! What's your initial reaction to becoming a Hammer?
"First of all, thanks a lot because I'm very proud and happy to be in this magnificent Club. It was long, but now it's done and I'm happy to be here and happy to play in this popular club with a lot of fans and I hope I can make everyone happy here.
"When I got to England, I could have come to West Ham last season too, but what is meant to happen happens every time because I am here now!
"I think it's the ambition of the Club, the great manager that the Club has and the thought of becoming a better Club every year. I can see West Ham has been growing for the past few years – the Stadium, the training ground, we can feel the Club is getting to another dimension and I want to be part of this project."
You have signed for a Club-record fee, so how does that feel?
"What is important is the field. I need to do my job, train hard and be ready to prove that I deserve to play for West Ham – that's what's important.
"The fee is talks between the clubs, not me. My issue is to make sure I give back the coach and the fans the confidence they have given to me and make the West Ham fans proud."
Here we are at our stunning new London Stadium. Did this magnificent arena play a part in your decision to join us?
"Honestly, I can't wait to play here and I hope it's soon! It's a great Stadium with great fans who we heard at the last two games in the Europa League and versus Juventus – it sounded fantastic.
"Hopefully we can keep playing well and getting results so there will be more and more people and joy in the stands."
Do you sense West Ham is a Club moving to the next level on and off the pitch?
"It's not by talking, but by proving it on the pitch and that's what is important and why we're going to work and concentrate very hard.
"With the season we had last season, everyone knows West Ham is a Club which is going to compete and we need to be ready for that.
"It's going to be a difficult season but we need to be ready physically and mentally to get the right performances and results to let the Stadium and everyone all go with it."
"He was a very big part of me joining the Club. He is a manager who has wanted me for the past few years and today I'm lucky to play under him.
"Hopefully I'll be able to satisfy him, because his words when I spoke to him were very important to me and made me think we have a lot of work to do to get where we want to get to. I'm very happy he has confidence in me and I want to give it back to him."
And of course your arrival also means a reunion with your old Marseille teammate Dimitri Payet!
"He's a friend of mine as we played two or three years together at Marseille. I know him and he knows me and I'm happy to be back playing with a great player like him, because I know what he is capable of doing.
"I know what he did last season and he can do even more, so now I'm back with him we're going to work together with the whole team and do everything possible to make things right.
"You have Dimitri, Sofiane, Antonio, Andy Carroll – the Club is getting to another level and these are the players you need to get here. Hopefully we can keep the unity to make things work.
"We can do all the signings and say what we want, but what's important is to prove it on the field and do everything we can do get the results on the pitch."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to offer star attacker £4.3m per year - Forever West Ham
Date: 11th August 2016 at 6:30am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
West Ham United have entered the race to sign Napoli contract rebel Lorenzo Insigne and are willing to boost his wages in an attempt to lure him to the London Stadium, Il Mattino report.
The Italy international is a product of the youth system at the San Paolo club and a fans favourite after showcasing real skill and ability over a number of years in the first team.
However, Insigne is said to be stalling on signing a new contract in Naples, with his agent being vocal that the wages on offer from Maurizio Sarri's men were not enough for him to put pen to paper.
Napoli are desperate to keep a hold of the diminutive attacking midfielder but may well be tempted to sell him should the star refuse to extend his terms with the Serie A side.
The report suggests that West Ham would offer Insigne basic wages of around €5 million (£4.3 million) per year – which the Italian club would not match.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Mark Noble says the Hammers can lay down a marker ahead of what promises to be the most competitive of Premier League seasons when they travel to Chelsea on Monday evening.
With plenty of change in terms of personnel, both managerial and playing-wise at the teams chasing league glory – not to mention last year's top two Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur looking to mount challenges again – the level of intrigue has been ramped up to the max as the new season get underway.
The Hammers face one of those sides to change bosses, and with Antonio Conte in the dugout for the first time, Noble is looking forward to the challenge, both on Monday and all season long.
He said: "We've got seven or eight of the best ten or eleven managers in Europe in the Premier League now. We've got some of the best players too – Paul Pogba's just come here for £100m, Ibrahimovic, the players who Man City have signed and I'm pretty sure there'll be a lot more to come from the top clubs.
"Do I think this is going to be the toughest season I've played in? Probably yes. When people talk about the top teams, they talk about Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea. They don't even talk about Spurs, who are a top team.
"They were probably the toughest team we played last year. It's going to be a really tough league.
"We know we can compete with the big boys, we did that last year. We haven't got the same spending power or maybe as big a squad, but we have got a great bunch of lads who enjoy playing together.
"Of course it's important to get off to a good start and Chelsea will be saying the same thing, at home to West Ham. First game of the season, new manager, a lot of millions of pounds worth of new signings, and a lot of new hope at Chelsea.
"To be honest I'm looking forward to it, getting the pre-season games out of the way and getting back down to business with proper football matches."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joe Cole in America Update
by Brian Knox on 9 August 2016 at 10:25pm
Joe Cole: This Week
By @WestHamAmerican
For those of you wondering "Where is Joe Cole?" he has taken is scoring skills to the sunny coast of Florida in the United States. The 34-year old former England midfielder currently plays for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, a club in the second tier of American soccer. The Rowdies were formed in 2008 and currently play in the same league as recent West Ham opponents Carolina Railhawks.
Cole signed with Tampa Bay in May of 2016 and immediately brought his pace and attacking style to the US gulf coast.
Most recently Tampa Bay hosted fellow Florida club, the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers, on Saturday evening. After a scoreless first half, the second half broke open when Cole's cross found Keith Savage in the box to take a 1-0 lead in the 50th minute of play.
Moments later, Cole added to the score sheet when he took a cross from his own forward, Georgi Hristov, on a counterattack and scored a goal of his own. It would be Joe Cole's 4th goal of his short time with the Rowdies. He also has 4 assists in only ten appearances. Tampa Bay took the win 2-1 despite a late goal from striker Jose Angulo.
Having an experienced professional on the pitch, surrounded by a team of young American footballers must be an asset for this ambitious club. Cole brings an 82.2% passing accuracy through the first ten matches of his career. Tampa Bay currently sits 6th in the table of 12. Their next fixture is against the New York Cosmos on Saturday.
From time to time, The West Ham Way will update you on Cole's time on the Florida Gulf Coast.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham want to finalise deal to sign Carlos Bacca for £20m as AC Milan striker looks to double his wages
By Simon Jones for MailOnline
Published: 00:52 GMT, 9 August 2016 | Updated: 12:32 GMT, 9 August 2016
West Ham are looking to get a £20m deal for Carlos Bacca done too following the arrival of Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku.
Bacca currently earns £60,000 at AC Milan and is in talks with the club over doubling his wages to £120,000 per week if he is to sign for them.
If he was to complete a move to the Olympic Stadium and have his demands met, it would put him alongside Dimitri Payet as West Ham's best paid player.
Carlos Bacca is demanding £120,000 per week if he is to join West Ham this summer
Andre Ayew left Swansea after one season to join West Ham for £20.5m - a club record
Former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Robin van Persie was offered to West Ham, but they turned down the chance to have the Fenerbahce forward.
A club record fee of £20.5m saw Ghana forward Ayew leave Swansea and become the Hammers' ninth summer signing, eclipsing the £15m paid to Liverpool to buy Andy Carroll in 2013.
French left-back Masuaku joins on a four-year contract after completing his move from Olympiakos, where he played more than a 100 times for the Greek club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham new boy Andre Ayew vows to make Dimitri Payet even better
16:58, 9 Aug 2016
Updated 17:08, 9 Aug 2016
By Adrian Kajumba
The striker joined the Hammers for £20.5m from Swansea and can't wait to link up again with his former Marseille teammate Payet
Andre Ayew reckons he can help Dimitri Payet get even better following his club record move to West Ham.
The striker joined the Hammers for £20.5m from Swansea and can't wait to link up again with his former Marseille teammate Payet.
Playmaker Payet made a £10.7m move to West Ham from the French club last season and enjoyed a stunning debut campaign in England.
Ayew said: "I know what he did last season and he can do even more, so now I'm back with him we're going to work together with the whole team and do everything possible to make things right.
Jan Kruger/Getty Player of the Year nominee Dimitri Payet
Player of the Year Dimitri Payet can get even better reckons Ayew
West Ham United via Getty West Ham United Unveil New Signing Andre Ayew
Ayew at the Olympic Stadium
"He's a friend of mine as we played two or three years together at Marseille.
"I know him and he knows me and I'm happy to be back playing with a great player like him, because I know what he is capable of doing.
"You have Dimitri, Sofiane Feghouli, Michail Antonio, Andy Carroll – the club is getting to another level and these are the players you need to get here.
"Hopefully we can keep the unity to make things work."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ayew - I can't wait to play here! - WHUFC Official Site
Andre Ayew told West Ham TV there were plenty of reasons behind his decision to become a Hammer.
The Ghana star became the Club's record signing when he completed a £20.5m move from Swansea City on Monday evening.
And in his first interview at London Stadium, the new No20 told of his respect for the Club, its big ambitions, manager Slaven Bilic, his former Marseille and now West Ham teammate Dimitri Payet and the strong squad being build to challenge on all fronts.
Andre Ayew, welcome to West Ham United! What's your initial reaction to becoming a Hammer?
"First of all, thanks a lot because I'm very proud and happy to be in this magnificent Club. It was long, but now it's done and I'm happy to be here and happy to play in this popular club with a lot of fans and I hope I can make everyone happy here.
"When I got to England, I could have come to West Ham last season too, but what is meant to happen happens every time because I am here now!
"I think it's the ambition of the Club, the great manager that the Club has and the thought of becoming a better Club every year. I can see West Ham has been growing for the past few years – the Stadium, the training ground, we can feel the Club is getting to another dimension and I want to be part of this project."
You have signed for a Club-record fee, so how does that feel?
"What is important is the field. I need to do my job, train hard and be ready to prove that I deserve to play for West Ham – that's what's important.
"The fee is talks between the clubs, not me. My issue is to make sure I give back the coach and the fans the confidence they have given to me and make the West Ham fans proud."
Here we are at our stunning new London Stadium. Did this magnificent arena play a part in your decision to join us?
"Honestly, I can't wait to play here and I hope it's soon! It's a great Stadium with great fans who we heard at the last two games in the Europa League and versus Juventus – it sounded fantastic.
"Hopefully we can keep playing well and getting results so there will be more and more people and joy in the stands."
Do you sense West Ham is a Club moving to the next level on and off the pitch?
"It's not by talking, but by proving it on the pitch and that's what is important and why we're going to work and concentrate very hard.
"With the season we had last season, everyone knows West Ham is a Club which is going to compete and we need to be ready for that.
"It's going to be a difficult season but we need to be ready physically and mentally to get the right performances and results to let the Stadium and everyone all go with it."
"He was a very big part of me joining the Club. He is a manager who has wanted me for the past few years and today I'm lucky to play under him.
"Hopefully I'll be able to satisfy him, because his words when I spoke to him were very important to me and made me think we have a lot of work to do to get where we want to get to. I'm very happy he has confidence in me and I want to give it back to him."
And of course your arrival also means a reunion with your old Marseille teammate Dimitri Payet!
"He's a friend of mine as we played two or three years together at Marseille. I know him and he knows me and I'm happy to be back playing with a great player like him, because I know what he is capable of doing.
"I know what he did last season and he can do even more, so now I'm back with him we're going to work together with the whole team and do everything possible to make things right.
"You have Dimitri, Sofiane, Antonio, Andy Carroll – the Club is getting to another level and these are the players you need to get here. Hopefully we can keep the unity to make things work.
"We can do all the signings and say what we want, but what's important is to prove it on the field and do everything we can do get the results on the pitch."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to offer star attacker £4.3m per year - Forever West Ham
Date: 11th August 2016 at 6:30am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
West Ham United have entered the race to sign Napoli contract rebel Lorenzo Insigne and are willing to boost his wages in an attempt to lure him to the London Stadium, Il Mattino report.
The Italy international is a product of the youth system at the San Paolo club and a fans favourite after showcasing real skill and ability over a number of years in the first team.
However, Insigne is said to be stalling on signing a new contract in Naples, with his agent being vocal that the wages on offer from Maurizio Sarri's men were not enough for him to put pen to paper.
Napoli are desperate to keep a hold of the diminutive attacking midfielder but may well be tempted to sell him should the star refuse to extend his terms with the Serie A side.
The report suggests that West Ham would offer Insigne basic wages of around €5 million (£4.3 million) per year – which the Italian club would not match.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th August
Sorry for the delay.....
Hammers launch Premier League season -WHUFC Official Site
* Slaven Bilic, Mark Noble and Foundation representatives helped launch the new 16/17 Premier League season
* West Ham United were one of only four teams to be invited to the launch
* The Hammers start their league campaign away at Chelsea on Monday 15 August before hosting AFC Bournemouth the following Sunday
Slaven Bilic, Mark Noble and representatives from the West Ham United Foundation were on hand early on Wednesday to mark the official launch of the new 2016/17 Premier League season.
Following the successful opening of the Club's fantastic new home last week, both Bilic and Noble were in good spirits as they prepare for the new campaign.
Starting with a mouth-watering London derby away at rivals Chelsea on Monday, the Hammers will then host AFC Bournemouth the following Sunday, in the very first Premier League fixture at London Stadium.
Looking ahead to the start of the new Premier League campaign, Bilic said: "We know it's a long season, so we want to start good. We've had a good pre-season, now we have five big games between now and the first international break.
"We are confident, we have some very good new players and we are definitely ready for the start of the new season."
Club captain Mark Noble was equally as excited, looking ahead to the season opener at Stamford Bridge, he said: "We've got three games coming up in a week, but at the moment the Chelsea game is the only one I'm thinking about.
"It's a great game for our fans, against our rivals, under the lights. It'll be tough, they've got some great players and a new manager. But saying that, we're confident, we've got a good squad and we've bonded well. It should be a great game, I can't wait really."
The launch event at Market Road, Islington was also a fantastic occasion for West Ham United Foundation youngsters to showcase their skills, with the added incentive of playing in front of the first team manager and club captain.
Having been invited to the launch as one of only four Premier League clubs, the Hammers were in good company alongside Leicester City's Claudio Ranieri and Wes Morgan, Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Jack Wilshere as well as Premier League new-boys Sean Dyche and Tom Heaton.
The tournament, a fitting curtain-raiser for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling seasons to date, was made up of participants from the four club's Foundations.
Each team was represented by a Premier League Kicks and School Sport side, which had the chance to showcase the incredible work that takes place in the community via football clubs and Premier League funding.
Skipper Noble watched on as West Ham's Premier League Kicks team beat both Arsenal and Leicester 3-0, before winning 4-1 against Premier League new boys Burnley.
Noble was not just a spectator though; the Canning Town born captain rallied the young Irons with an inspiring pre-match talk before taking part in a Q&A with the School Sport team.
The day, however, was less about winning football matches and more about celebrating the great work carried out by community schemes. Foundation participants flittered between football and multi-sports, testing themselves in handball and athletics, demonstrating the diverse programmes on offer from the Premier League.
Speaking after a successful morning's work, Foundation Development Officer George Chukwuma, who coincidentally went to the same primary school as Noble, beamed: "It's great to be able to showcase what our Foundation is all about, and to celebrate the good work Foundations do across the country.
"The support and funding the Premier League give us is massive. To be part of the official launch of the new Premier League season is very special. We're delighted to be part of today's launch, and delighted with how well we did because a lot of hard work has gone into it!"
To find out more about how to get involved in our Premier League funded projects, contact WHU Foundation Community Manager Shamajul Motin at smotin@westhamunited.co.uk
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/10-August/Hammers-help-launch-new-Premier-League-season-(1)#2yyT65EBDzrw0ZhM.99
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United: Left-back Lewis Page joins Coventry City on five-month loan - BBC
Coventry City have signed defender Lewis Page on loan from Premier League side West Ham United.
The 20-year-old left-back, who had two months on loan at Cambridge United last season, has signed to remain with the Sky Blues until 12 January, 2017.
Page is eligible to make his debut in Tuesday's EFL Cup first-round tie at home to Portsmouth.
The West Ham Academy player made his first-team debut for the Hammers in July 2015 in the Europa League.
"We have bought him in to create competition in the left-back area," Sky Blues boss Tony Mowbray told BBC Coventry & Warwickshire, "with Chris Stokes likely to be out with injury for longer than expected."
Stokes missed the final two months of last season after being stretchered off with a knee injury in City's 1-0 win at Blackpool.
City began their fifth consecutive season in League One on Saturday with a 1-0 defeat at Swindon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hey dude, where's my seat? - KUMB
Filed: Tuesday, 9th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
A perplexed season ticket holder was looking forward to taking in his first game at the Olympic Stadium - when he discovered the seat he had been sold doesn't exist.
KUMB member anglianhammer revealed how he turned up for last Thursday's Europa League clash with NK Domzale, only to find that there was no trace whatsoever of the seat which he thought he'd purchased!
"I chose my seat at the Reservation Centre back in March," he said. "However I discovered on Thursday that I'd been sold a seat that doesn't exist as row 62 ends at seat 334 - and I'd been sold seat 335!
"A very helpful steward was as perplexed as I was, searching adjacent rows and blocks but to no avail. In the end I sat in glorious isolation on a row of four seats within the area of the Press Block.
"Needless to say I emailed the club's Ticket Office and sent some 'Founders' Feedback' on Friday morning and am awaiting their response. It'll be interesting to see what seat my access card shows!"
Despite having paid for a seat that doesn't actually exist, anglianhammer admitted that he has an enjoyable night otherwise.
"I had an excellent view and, despite the confusion, a very enjoyable evening<" he added. "I'm anticipating a great season at the Olympic Stadium - especially when I get the seat that I've paid for!"
* Want to share your experiences of the OS so far? Visit the KUMB Forum's OS Questions & Answers thread.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New Hammers enjoy first session - WHUFC Official Site
The Hammers' latest signings Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku took part in their first training session with the Club on Tuesday at Rush Green.
The pair, who had joined from Swansea City and Olympiacos respectively the previous day, met up with their new teammates, including French star Dimitri Payet who was himself returning to the Hammers' base after an extended holiday.
Payet, along with Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins, has just returned to east London after a UEFA Euro 2016 campaign and teamed up with former Marseille colleague Ayew.
The duo will be looking forward to meeting the rest of the squad when they return on Wednesday.
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/New-Hammers-enjoy-first-session
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
We All Follow The West Ham! - WHUFC Official Site
Season Ticket Holder and Team GB hockey star Susannah Townsend has begun her quest for Olympic Gold in Rio...
As a West Ham supporter, although I loved watching the team as a youngster, I grew up myself playing a lot of individual sports.
I played a lot of tennis while I was growing up. When I went to secondary school I started playing team sports and a lot of hockey, and the idea of playing team sports with my mates was the biggest drive and what inspired me to play hockey.
For me, like many athletes, I've enjoyed many ups and many downs. I've played Under-16s to 21s for England but during each of those years, there were points when I didn't get selected. For example, in the Junior Olympics, I didn't get selected, and the same with the London Olympics.
My aim originally was to play in London 2012, but looking back it wasn't really the right time for me. I always place a lot of pride in my attacking side as a hockey player, but I didn't put the ground work in to become good defensively as well, so that ultimately probably cost me going to London. All of my time was spent thinking how I can be this attacking player, when I should have thought about defending too!
Tactics
In the last four or five years, I have realised I can be one of the best attackers in the world, but I also have had to nail my defending and have understood that I can't just go out there and play.
I need to know the tactics and know all aspects of my game. That's how my career has gone; there have been lots of ups and downs, although since London, there haven't really been any downs, which is nice. It's been a steady incline into actually being selected for Team GB.
As a role model, I can definitely take being a bit of a Mark Noble!
In interviews, when people ask me who my role model is, most female athletes – especially who are going to perform at the Olympics – say someone like Kelly Holmes, but I always say Paolo Di Canio. I always have to explain it; that he's a bit of a naughty boy!
Some people didn't have a lot of faith in him before he joined and thought he was a bit of a risk, and then Harry Redknapp took the risk and Paolo proved everybody wrong to become a West Ham hero. It's the ultimate story so I always looked up to Paolo.
Of course, though, Mark Noble is someone else I consider a role model, although he probably makes a few more tackles than me!
For hockey players, the pinnacle of our sport is actually playing at the Olympics.
In London, we won the Bronze medal. We're a National Lottery funded sport, but we are also a podium-funded sport, which means we are expected to go and win medals.
We want to always be better at this Olympics in Rio, and our aim is to actually go and win the Gold medal.
Of course every team will say that, but for us, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride more than than other sides.
We messed up the World Cup, which is a major, major event, but since, we've done a lot of almost soul-searching during that stage in which we didn't do very well. That's given us the motivation and inspiration to perform well at this Olympics
It's obviously now set us up quite nicely to actually go into these next weeks and I do certainly believe we can actually win a Gold medal.
Obviously it would be nice to have every West Ham fan cheering me on this summer, as lots of other Hammers have previously won medals at the Olympics; Mark Hunter has two medals, Chris Akabusi has a couple himself, Christine Ohuruogo is also a local girl, and Sally Gunnell as well.
For me, the Olympics is obviously very different to any other event because it's on such a big scale. It's given us every single inspiration possible to make sure we're ready when we get there.
A lot of other teams in the tournament are almost rushing to make sure they're prepared, but for us it is more a case of fine-tuning and changing a few details to prepare which is quite nice.
On one of my rest days, the new Stadium Store at the Club's new home had just opened, and my Dad – Mark – came over to buy me lunch.
We had a walk over to the Store and it brought back memories of my childhood, going to West Ham. We always forgot about all those arguments in my teenage years when we were sitting together in the Bobby Moore Stand. It was obviously a sad day leaving Upton Park, but we have moved into the new Stadium where some amazing things have happened.
For me personally, despite not going to the Olympics, it's an incredible place and it will be incredible to watch football there. For fans, they will definitely enjoy that walk towards the Stadium, looking up at the West Ham United sign and the ground. It's pretty spectacular. When you think of all the history that has happened during the Olympics, all the medals which have been won, it's incredible to play football here.
For me, you have to love what you do, and ultimately I get to turn up to training every day and be with my mates. Obviously sometimes it's hard, sometimes it's tough, but we get through it. I think that kind of thing showed with West Ham last season; everyone was having a good time. It's such a cliché to say people play well when they're having fun, but that was true last season and the team believed in their tactics.
I think you can tell by the way that Slaven Bilic's team plays. Everyone is enjoying themselves out there at the moment. I think with the squad that we have, going into the new Stadium can definitely propel West Ham a lot further. I think if we continue to play our attacking football, it's so exciting to watch.
I can't believe Dimitri Payet, when he signed last season, was so undiscovered. You can tell that he loves football, he loves playing and he loves being there, and it's enough for the fans to love him instantly. He plays with his heart and he's a bit like Carlos Tevez – the fans have just adopted him.
He plays with passion, though every West Ham player does, because it's that type of club. Other clubs don't have that I don't think, and it's so special that West Ham has that kind of feel about it.
I was looking around at the Boleyn Ground at the last game and you have fathers, daughters, older people by themselves, families; you see the whole family feel about it. I think that's why it's so important that we have players that genuinely love playing for the Club and love being out there on the pitch in front of those fans. It's that extra bit of passion that everyone loves, and players like Payet have that.
For example for me, when I was younger, I left my hockey club for a season for another club in England, and when there was a game that we lost or didn't play well in, of course I was gutted and disappointed but it wasn't that same feeling. I re-joined my old club at Christmas because sometimes you just get that feeling when you love a club. That's definitely the feeling with every single West Ham United player in my opinion. I hope that I can carry that same feeling into the Olympics with me for Great Britain.
I am gutted to be missing the start of the season due to being in Brazil, but my Dad and I have two Season Tickets so we will enjoy a lot of the games here this season. He persuaded me when I was younger to support West Ham and it's still our thing and something we do together. It keeps our relationship quite strong.
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/We-All-Follow-The-West-Ham!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joint-Chairman - Ayew is a great player - WHUFC Official Site
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is thrilled to have secured the Club record signing of Andre Ayew from Swansea and feels he will be a great addition to the squad.
Ayew completed his £20.5million move from Swansea City on Monday and cannot wait to play his first game at the new Stadium.
The Ghana international joined the Club on a three-year contract, with an additional two-year option, and can operate anywhere along the frontline.
Mr Sullivan believes his versatility will be crucial for Slaven Bilic as the team prepare for a number of games in both domestic and European competition.
Mr Sullivan said: "Andre is a great player. He was Swansea's leading goalscorer last season.
"He can play all four positions across the frontline and last season when he played as a striker he scored six goals in eight games.
"We have been negotiating with Swansea for over three weeks and are delighted to have secured his signature."
On a busy day of transfer activity for the Hammers, Mr Sullivan was also pleased to see the arrival of talented full-back Arthur Masuaku from Olympiacos for £6.2million.
Mr Sullivan added: "We are delighted to announce the signing of Masuaku and our scouts say he's a top player with Champions League experience."
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/Joint-Chairman-Ayew-is-a-great-player
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ayew - I can't wait to play here!- WHUFC Official Site
Andre Ayew told West Ham TV there were plenty of reasons behind his decision to become a Hammer.
The Ghana star became the Club's record signing when he completed a £20.5m move from Swansea City on Monday evening.
And in his first interview at London Stadium, the new No20 told of his respect for the Club, its big ambitions, manager Slaven Bilic, his former Marseille and now West Ham teammate Dimitri Payet and the strong squad being build to challenge on all fronts.
Andre Ayew, welcome to West Ham United! What's your initial reaction to becoming a Hammer?
"First of all, thanks a lot because I'm very proud and happy to be in this magnificent Club. It was long, but now it's done and I'm happy to be here and happy to play in this popular club with a lot of fans and I hope I can make everyone happy here.
"When I got to England, I could have come to West Ham last season too, but what is meant to happen happens every time because I am here now!
"I think it's the ambition of the Club, the great manager that the Club has and the thought of becoming a better Club every year. I can see West Ham has been growing for the past few years – the Stadium, the training ground, we can feel the Club is getting to another dimension and I want to be part of this project."
You have signed for a Club-record fee, so how does that feel?
"What is important is the field. I need to do my job, train hard and be ready to prove that I deserve to play for West Ham – that's what's important.
"The fee is talks between the clubs, not me. My issue is to make sure I give back the coach and the fans the confidence they have given to me and make the West Ham fans proud."
Here we are at our stunning new London Stadium. Did this magnificent arena play a part in your decision to join us?
"Honestly, I can't wait to play here and I hope it's soon! It's a great Stadium with great fans who we heard at the last two games in the Europa League and versus Juventus – it sounded fantastic.
"Hopefully we can keep playing well and getting results so there will be more and more people and joy in the stands."
Do you sense West Ham is a Club moving to the next level on and off the pitch?
"It's not by talking, but by proving it on the pitch and that's what is important and why we're going to work and concentrate very hard.
"With the season we had last season, everyone knows West Ham is a Club which is going to compete and we need to be ready for that.
"It's going to be a difficult season but we need to be ready physically and mentally to get the right performances and results to let the Stadium and everyone all go with it."
How big a role did manager Slaven Bilic play in bringing you to east London?
"He was a very big part of me joining the Club. He is a manager who has wanted me for the past few years and today I'm lucky to play under him.
"Hopefully I'll be able to satisfy him, because his words when I spoke to him were very important to me and made me think we have a lot of work to do to get where we want to get to. I'm very happy he has confidence in me and I want to give it back to him."
And of course your arrival also means a reunion with your old Marseille teammate Dimitri Payet!
"He's a friend of mine as we played two or three years together at Marseille. I know him and he knows me and I'm happy to be back playing with a great player like him, because I know what he is capable of doing.
"I know what he did last season and he can do even more, so now I'm back with him we're going to work together with the whole team and do everything possible to make things right.
"You have Dimitri, Sofiane, Antonio, Andy Carroll – the Club is getting to another level and these are the players you need to get here. Hopefully we can keep the unity to make things work.
"We can do all the signings and say what we want, but what's important is to prove it on the field and do everything we can do get the results on the pitch."
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/Ayew-I-can
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says West Ham captain Mark Noble has real chance to stake England claim
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 10/08/16 11:21am
Slaven Bilic believes Mark Noble has a chance to break into the England set-up this season as West Ham prepare for life in their new stadium.
The 29-year-old was overlooked by Roy Hodgson for England's ill-fated Euro 2016 campaign but with Sam Allardyce now in charge of the national set-up, Bilic says the West Ham captain can take the final step onto the international stage.
Noble won 20 caps at U21 level and captained the side at the 2009 European Championship finals but has yet to be recognised by the senior side.
Bilic said: "He's got everything, he's at the best age and he's captain of the club. He had a terrific season with many people - not only me - thinking he deserved to be in the squad; I didn't see many midfield players have a season like he did last year.
"He has a manger now in Sam Allardyce who knows how good and useful he can be, not only on the pitch but in the dressing room as well.
"But I have told all the players - like Aaron Cresswell and Andy Carroll - that they have all have a chance but they will not get in the England team because they had a good season last year; there is no yesterday in football. They have to play consistently well for West Ham or they are not going to play for England."
Bilic says his squad have developed a winning mentality - and believes that having retained Dimitri Payet, they can improve on last season's seventh-place finish in their new stadium.
He said: "It is a very dangerous one, it is the first season with a new stadium. We have to adjust. The atmosphere, we can't compare it with Upton Park but it is good.
"I was a little concerned about it because I know I played and I coached in this type of stadium, you have many of them in Europe like that and sometimes the atmosphere is not ideal but we have played two games there and you can feel the crowd.
"They are not as close as at Upton Park but you can feel them and the stadium will be packed. We are going to try to keep the spectators there with our performances. We are expecting big things.
"It won't come overnight. The new stadium, the new training ground and new goals - we have to continue to work hard to earn it.
"In keeping Dimitri Payet we have shown the club is serious and trying to get to another level, as much or even more than with the new stadium.
"West Ham was always labelled as a club that has to sell its best players, be it Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand or whoever. But we have kept Dimi, and we have shown to everyone that the club is thinking seriously."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Club president confirms bid for Rachid Ghezzal from West Ham United
Fri 5 Aug
Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed West Ham United's bid for Rachid Ghezzal.
Speaking to L'Equipe (via ESPN), Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas has explained that West Ham United have placed a bid to sign Richard Ghezzal.
Ghezzal was one of the most exciting attackers in Europe last season and his eight goals as well as eight assists went a long way in helping Lyon qualify for the Champions League.
Given Ghezzal's fine form, it has been no surprise to see a host of top clubs courting the services of the 24-year-old this summer and recently Premier League side West Ham have allegedly placed a bid of around £6.8 million for the winger (London Evening Standard).
Ghezzal has entered the final year of his contract at Lyon and despite West Ham's relatively low offer, it seemed like the London side would be able to sign the Algerian international.
Now Lyon president Aulas has confirmed that West Ham have indeed placed a bid for Ghezzal but has insisted that the player does not want to leave the Parc Olympique Lyonnais and that the club are looking to tie him down to a new contract.
"He wants me to talk with his advisors and so I'm going to call them this week to try to break the deadlock," Aulas told L'Equipe.
"I like Rachid a lot. It would be really good if we might be able to reach an agreement. We have received offers for him, including the one from West Ham.
"I know that Rachid doesn't want to leave Lyon so we have to find an agreement so as not to remain in a situation that's not good for either of the two parties involved."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic tips Andre Ayew to become an instant hit at the club
Published on: 10 August 2016
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic expects new boy Andre Ayew to be an instant hit at the club.
Ayew, 26, completed a club record transfer switch to the Hammers on Monday from West Ham United.
The big-money move has placed massive responsibilities on his shoulders ahead of the start of the new season this weekend.
And West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has tipped the Ghanaian super star to hit the ground running.
"Yes [I expect Ayew to make an instant impact], I mean a lot of players make it straight away, and some need a little bit of time to adjust," Bilic said at the official Premier League launch event in north London on Wednesday.
"His first big advantage is that he played in a big, big club like Olympique Marseille, he's an international and is captain of Ghana and is at his best stage.
"He's already spent one year in the Premier League so it's nothing new for him.
"Sometimes wingers, strikers or offensive midfielders need a bit of time, while centre-backs are centre backs and are just doing their job and don't depend on the team that much.
"The players are good in that they really make new players feel at home after a few days, so I'm sure we can expect some good football from the newcomers straightaway."
The second son of Ghana netted 12 times for the Swans in 34 appearances last term.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make €50m bid for Alexandre Lacazette-readwestham.com
According to reports in France, West Ham have failed in their latest attempt to sign Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette.
Lyon recently rejected a bid of around £29million from Arsenal and they've been true to their word about wanting to keep him once again by turning down West Ham's latest offer.
Jason Burt of the Daily Telegraph, thinks that Lyon would sell Lacazette for around £60million, but the player is only interested in moving to a side which is playing in the Champions League.
Whilst it will be great for West Ham fans to see that their club are actively trying to sign one of Europe's hottest strikers, they might feel that they'd rather see them targeting players who are likely to make a move to the Olympic Stadium, rather than making hopeful bids for players who have made it clear that they want to be playing in Europe's biggest club competition.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Trying To Sign Real Madrid Starlet
10th August 2016 by Jamie Smith
Real Madrid starlet Martin Odegaard could be coming to the Premier League, with West Ham United trying to tie up a loan deal for the wonderkid.
According to a report by Spanish newspaper AS, Odegaard's future could be wrapped up in the coming days as Madrid want a move to be completed ahead of their transfer ban beginning.
The 17-year-old, who is also a target for Bayer Leverkusen and Hamburg, have appealed against the ban with a ruling expected to be confirmed by the end of the week.
If the ban is upheld Real Madrid will be unable to register outgoing or incoming players, meaning Odegaard would be stuck at the club for 12 months even though he does not feature in Zinedine Zidane's plans.
Zidane left the talented teenager out of his squad for the Super Cup win against fellow La Liga side Sevilla this week, with West Ham keen to take Odegaard on a season-long loan deal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Hammers launch Premier League season -WHUFC Official Site
* Slaven Bilic, Mark Noble and Foundation representatives helped launch the new 16/17 Premier League season
* West Ham United were one of only four teams to be invited to the launch
* The Hammers start their league campaign away at Chelsea on Monday 15 August before hosting AFC Bournemouth the following Sunday
Slaven Bilic, Mark Noble and representatives from the West Ham United Foundation were on hand early on Wednesday to mark the official launch of the new 2016/17 Premier League season.
Following the successful opening of the Club's fantastic new home last week, both Bilic and Noble were in good spirits as they prepare for the new campaign.
Starting with a mouth-watering London derby away at rivals Chelsea on Monday, the Hammers will then host AFC Bournemouth the following Sunday, in the very first Premier League fixture at London Stadium.
Looking ahead to the start of the new Premier League campaign, Bilic said: "We know it's a long season, so we want to start good. We've had a good pre-season, now we have five big games between now and the first international break.
"We are confident, we have some very good new players and we are definitely ready for the start of the new season."
Club captain Mark Noble was equally as excited, looking ahead to the season opener at Stamford Bridge, he said: "We've got three games coming up in a week, but at the moment the Chelsea game is the only one I'm thinking about.
"It's a great game for our fans, against our rivals, under the lights. It'll be tough, they've got some great players and a new manager. But saying that, we're confident, we've got a good squad and we've bonded well. It should be a great game, I can't wait really."
The launch event at Market Road, Islington was also a fantastic occasion for West Ham United Foundation youngsters to showcase their skills, with the added incentive of playing in front of the first team manager and club captain.
Having been invited to the launch as one of only four Premier League clubs, the Hammers were in good company alongside Leicester City's Claudio Ranieri and Wes Morgan, Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Jack Wilshere as well as Premier League new-boys Sean Dyche and Tom Heaton.
The tournament, a fitting curtain-raiser for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling seasons to date, was made up of participants from the four club's Foundations.
Each team was represented by a Premier League Kicks and School Sport side, which had the chance to showcase the incredible work that takes place in the community via football clubs and Premier League funding.
Skipper Noble watched on as West Ham's Premier League Kicks team beat both Arsenal and Leicester 3-0, before winning 4-1 against Premier League new boys Burnley.
Noble was not just a spectator though; the Canning Town born captain rallied the young Irons with an inspiring pre-match talk before taking part in a Q&A with the School Sport team.
The day, however, was less about winning football matches and more about celebrating the great work carried out by community schemes. Foundation participants flittered between football and multi-sports, testing themselves in handball and athletics, demonstrating the diverse programmes on offer from the Premier League.
Speaking after a successful morning's work, Foundation Development Officer George Chukwuma, who coincidentally went to the same primary school as Noble, beamed: "It's great to be able to showcase what our Foundation is all about, and to celebrate the good work Foundations do across the country.
"The support and funding the Premier League give us is massive. To be part of the official launch of the new Premier League season is very special. We're delighted to be part of today's launch, and delighted with how well we did because a lot of hard work has gone into it!"
To find out more about how to get involved in our Premier League funded projects, contact WHU Foundation Community Manager Shamajul Motin at smotin@westhamunited.co.uk
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/10-August/Hammers-help-launch-new-Premier-League-season-(1)#2yyT65EBDzrw0ZhM.99
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United: Left-back Lewis Page joins Coventry City on five-month loan - BBC
Coventry City have signed defender Lewis Page on loan from Premier League side West Ham United.
The 20-year-old left-back, who had two months on loan at Cambridge United last season, has signed to remain with the Sky Blues until 12 January, 2017.
Page is eligible to make his debut in Tuesday's EFL Cup first-round tie at home to Portsmouth.
The West Ham Academy player made his first-team debut for the Hammers in July 2015 in the Europa League.
"We have bought him in to create competition in the left-back area," Sky Blues boss Tony Mowbray told BBC Coventry & Warwickshire, "with Chris Stokes likely to be out with injury for longer than expected."
Stokes missed the final two months of last season after being stretchered off with a knee injury in City's 1-0 win at Blackpool.
City began their fifth consecutive season in League One on Saturday with a 1-0 defeat at Swindon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hey dude, where's my seat? - KUMB
Filed: Tuesday, 9th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
A perplexed season ticket holder was looking forward to taking in his first game at the Olympic Stadium - when he discovered the seat he had been sold doesn't exist.
KUMB member anglianhammer revealed how he turned up for last Thursday's Europa League clash with NK Domzale, only to find that there was no trace whatsoever of the seat which he thought he'd purchased!
"I chose my seat at the Reservation Centre back in March," he said. "However I discovered on Thursday that I'd been sold a seat that doesn't exist as row 62 ends at seat 334 - and I'd been sold seat 335!
"A very helpful steward was as perplexed as I was, searching adjacent rows and blocks but to no avail. In the end I sat in glorious isolation on a row of four seats within the area of the Press Block.
"Needless to say I emailed the club's Ticket Office and sent some 'Founders' Feedback' on Friday morning and am awaiting their response. It'll be interesting to see what seat my access card shows!"
Despite having paid for a seat that doesn't actually exist, anglianhammer admitted that he has an enjoyable night otherwise.
"I had an excellent view and, despite the confusion, a very enjoyable evening<" he added. "I'm anticipating a great season at the Olympic Stadium - especially when I get the seat that I've paid for!"
* Want to share your experiences of the OS so far? Visit the KUMB Forum's OS Questions & Answers thread.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New Hammers enjoy first session - WHUFC Official Site
The Hammers' latest signings Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku took part in their first training session with the Club on Tuesday at Rush Green.
The pair, who had joined from Swansea City and Olympiacos respectively the previous day, met up with their new teammates, including French star Dimitri Payet who was himself returning to the Hammers' base after an extended holiday.
Payet, along with Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins, has just returned to east London after a UEFA Euro 2016 campaign and teamed up with former Marseille colleague Ayew.
The duo will be looking forward to meeting the rest of the squad when they return on Wednesday.
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/New-Hammers-enjoy-first-session
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
We All Follow The West Ham! - WHUFC Official Site
Season Ticket Holder and Team GB hockey star Susannah Townsend has begun her quest for Olympic Gold in Rio...
As a West Ham supporter, although I loved watching the team as a youngster, I grew up myself playing a lot of individual sports.
I played a lot of tennis while I was growing up. When I went to secondary school I started playing team sports and a lot of hockey, and the idea of playing team sports with my mates was the biggest drive and what inspired me to play hockey.
For me, like many athletes, I've enjoyed many ups and many downs. I've played Under-16s to 21s for England but during each of those years, there were points when I didn't get selected. For example, in the Junior Olympics, I didn't get selected, and the same with the London Olympics.
My aim originally was to play in London 2012, but looking back it wasn't really the right time for me. I always place a lot of pride in my attacking side as a hockey player, but I didn't put the ground work in to become good defensively as well, so that ultimately probably cost me going to London. All of my time was spent thinking how I can be this attacking player, when I should have thought about defending too!
Tactics
In the last four or five years, I have realised I can be one of the best attackers in the world, but I also have had to nail my defending and have understood that I can't just go out there and play.
I need to know the tactics and know all aspects of my game. That's how my career has gone; there have been lots of ups and downs, although since London, there haven't really been any downs, which is nice. It's been a steady incline into actually being selected for Team GB.
As a role model, I can definitely take being a bit of a Mark Noble!
In interviews, when people ask me who my role model is, most female athletes – especially who are going to perform at the Olympics – say someone like Kelly Holmes, but I always say Paolo Di Canio. I always have to explain it; that he's a bit of a naughty boy!
Some people didn't have a lot of faith in him before he joined and thought he was a bit of a risk, and then Harry Redknapp took the risk and Paolo proved everybody wrong to become a West Ham hero. It's the ultimate story so I always looked up to Paolo.
Of course, though, Mark Noble is someone else I consider a role model, although he probably makes a few more tackles than me!
For hockey players, the pinnacle of our sport is actually playing at the Olympics.
In London, we won the Bronze medal. We're a National Lottery funded sport, but we are also a podium-funded sport, which means we are expected to go and win medals.
We want to always be better at this Olympics in Rio, and our aim is to actually go and win the Gold medal.
Of course every team will say that, but for us, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride more than than other sides.
We messed up the World Cup, which is a major, major event, but since, we've done a lot of almost soul-searching during that stage in which we didn't do very well. That's given us the motivation and inspiration to perform well at this Olympics
It's obviously now set us up quite nicely to actually go into these next weeks and I do certainly believe we can actually win a Gold medal.
Obviously it would be nice to have every West Ham fan cheering me on this summer, as lots of other Hammers have previously won medals at the Olympics; Mark Hunter has two medals, Chris Akabusi has a couple himself, Christine Ohuruogo is also a local girl, and Sally Gunnell as well.
For me, the Olympics is obviously very different to any other event because it's on such a big scale. It's given us every single inspiration possible to make sure we're ready when we get there.
A lot of other teams in the tournament are almost rushing to make sure they're prepared, but for us it is more a case of fine-tuning and changing a few details to prepare which is quite nice.
On one of my rest days, the new Stadium Store at the Club's new home had just opened, and my Dad – Mark – came over to buy me lunch.
We had a walk over to the Store and it brought back memories of my childhood, going to West Ham. We always forgot about all those arguments in my teenage years when we were sitting together in the Bobby Moore Stand. It was obviously a sad day leaving Upton Park, but we have moved into the new Stadium where some amazing things have happened.
For me personally, despite not going to the Olympics, it's an incredible place and it will be incredible to watch football there. For fans, they will definitely enjoy that walk towards the Stadium, looking up at the West Ham United sign and the ground. It's pretty spectacular. When you think of all the history that has happened during the Olympics, all the medals which have been won, it's incredible to play football here.
For me, you have to love what you do, and ultimately I get to turn up to training every day and be with my mates. Obviously sometimes it's hard, sometimes it's tough, but we get through it. I think that kind of thing showed with West Ham last season; everyone was having a good time. It's such a cliché to say people play well when they're having fun, but that was true last season and the team believed in their tactics.
I think you can tell by the way that Slaven Bilic's team plays. Everyone is enjoying themselves out there at the moment. I think with the squad that we have, going into the new Stadium can definitely propel West Ham a lot further. I think if we continue to play our attacking football, it's so exciting to watch.
I can't believe Dimitri Payet, when he signed last season, was so undiscovered. You can tell that he loves football, he loves playing and he loves being there, and it's enough for the fans to love him instantly. He plays with his heart and he's a bit like Carlos Tevez – the fans have just adopted him.
He plays with passion, though every West Ham player does, because it's that type of club. Other clubs don't have that I don't think, and it's so special that West Ham has that kind of feel about it.
I was looking around at the Boleyn Ground at the last game and you have fathers, daughters, older people by themselves, families; you see the whole family feel about it. I think that's why it's so important that we have players that genuinely love playing for the Club and love being out there on the pitch in front of those fans. It's that extra bit of passion that everyone loves, and players like Payet have that.
For example for me, when I was younger, I left my hockey club for a season for another club in England, and when there was a game that we lost or didn't play well in, of course I was gutted and disappointed but it wasn't that same feeling. I re-joined my old club at Christmas because sometimes you just get that feeling when you love a club. That's definitely the feeling with every single West Ham United player in my opinion. I hope that I can carry that same feeling into the Olympics with me for Great Britain.
I am gutted to be missing the start of the season due to being in Brazil, but my Dad and I have two Season Tickets so we will enjoy a lot of the games here this season. He persuaded me when I was younger to support West Ham and it's still our thing and something we do together. It keeps our relationship quite strong.
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/We-All-Follow-The-West-Ham!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joint-Chairman - Ayew is a great player - WHUFC Official Site
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is thrilled to have secured the Club record signing of Andre Ayew from Swansea and feels he will be a great addition to the squad.
Ayew completed his £20.5million move from Swansea City on Monday and cannot wait to play his first game at the new Stadium.
The Ghana international joined the Club on a three-year contract, with an additional two-year option, and can operate anywhere along the frontline.
Mr Sullivan believes his versatility will be crucial for Slaven Bilic as the team prepare for a number of games in both domestic and European competition.
Mr Sullivan said: "Andre is a great player. He was Swansea's leading goalscorer last season.
"He can play all four positions across the frontline and last season when he played as a striker he scored six goals in eight games.
"We have been negotiating with Swansea for over three weeks and are delighted to have secured his signature."
On a busy day of transfer activity for the Hammers, Mr Sullivan was also pleased to see the arrival of talented full-back Arthur Masuaku from Olympiacos for £6.2million.
Mr Sullivan added: "We are delighted to announce the signing of Masuaku and our scouts say he's a top player with Champions League experience."
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/Joint-Chairman-Ayew-is-a-great-player
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ayew - I can't wait to play here!- WHUFC Official Site
Andre Ayew told West Ham TV there were plenty of reasons behind his decision to become a Hammer.
The Ghana star became the Club's record signing when he completed a £20.5m move from Swansea City on Monday evening.
And in his first interview at London Stadium, the new No20 told of his respect for the Club, its big ambitions, manager Slaven Bilic, his former Marseille and now West Ham teammate Dimitri Payet and the strong squad being build to challenge on all fronts.
Andre Ayew, welcome to West Ham United! What's your initial reaction to becoming a Hammer?
"First of all, thanks a lot because I'm very proud and happy to be in this magnificent Club. It was long, but now it's done and I'm happy to be here and happy to play in this popular club with a lot of fans and I hope I can make everyone happy here.
"When I got to England, I could have come to West Ham last season too, but what is meant to happen happens every time because I am here now!
"I think it's the ambition of the Club, the great manager that the Club has and the thought of becoming a better Club every year. I can see West Ham has been growing for the past few years – the Stadium, the training ground, we can feel the Club is getting to another dimension and I want to be part of this project."
You have signed for a Club-record fee, so how does that feel?
"What is important is the field. I need to do my job, train hard and be ready to prove that I deserve to play for West Ham – that's what's important.
"The fee is talks between the clubs, not me. My issue is to make sure I give back the coach and the fans the confidence they have given to me and make the West Ham fans proud."
Here we are at our stunning new London Stadium. Did this magnificent arena play a part in your decision to join us?
"Honestly, I can't wait to play here and I hope it's soon! It's a great Stadium with great fans who we heard at the last two games in the Europa League and versus Juventus – it sounded fantastic.
"Hopefully we can keep playing well and getting results so there will be more and more people and joy in the stands."
Do you sense West Ham is a Club moving to the next level on and off the pitch?
"It's not by talking, but by proving it on the pitch and that's what is important and why we're going to work and concentrate very hard.
"With the season we had last season, everyone knows West Ham is a Club which is going to compete and we need to be ready for that.
"It's going to be a difficult season but we need to be ready physically and mentally to get the right performances and results to let the Stadium and everyone all go with it."
How big a role did manager Slaven Bilic play in bringing you to east London?
"He was a very big part of me joining the Club. He is a manager who has wanted me for the past few years and today I'm lucky to play under him.
"Hopefully I'll be able to satisfy him, because his words when I spoke to him were very important to me and made me think we have a lot of work to do to get where we want to get to. I'm very happy he has confidence in me and I want to give it back to him."
And of course your arrival also means a reunion with your old Marseille teammate Dimitri Payet!
"He's a friend of mine as we played two or three years together at Marseille. I know him and he knows me and I'm happy to be back playing with a great player like him, because I know what he is capable of doing.
"I know what he did last season and he can do even more, so now I'm back with him we're going to work together with the whole team and do everything possible to make things right.
"You have Dimitri, Sofiane, Antonio, Andy Carroll – the Club is getting to another level and these are the players you need to get here. Hopefully we can keep the unity to make things work.
"We can do all the signings and say what we want, but what's important is to prove it on the field and do everything we can do get the results on the pitch."
Read more at http://www.whufc.com/News/Articles/2016/August/9-August/Ayew-I-can
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says West Ham captain Mark Noble has real chance to stake England claim
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 10/08/16 11:21am
Slaven Bilic believes Mark Noble has a chance to break into the England set-up this season as West Ham prepare for life in their new stadium.
The 29-year-old was overlooked by Roy Hodgson for England's ill-fated Euro 2016 campaign but with Sam Allardyce now in charge of the national set-up, Bilic says the West Ham captain can take the final step onto the international stage.
Noble won 20 caps at U21 level and captained the side at the 2009 European Championship finals but has yet to be recognised by the senior side.
Bilic said: "He's got everything, he's at the best age and he's captain of the club. He had a terrific season with many people - not only me - thinking he deserved to be in the squad; I didn't see many midfield players have a season like he did last year.
"He has a manger now in Sam Allardyce who knows how good and useful he can be, not only on the pitch but in the dressing room as well.
"But I have told all the players - like Aaron Cresswell and Andy Carroll - that they have all have a chance but they will not get in the England team because they had a good season last year; there is no yesterday in football. They have to play consistently well for West Ham or they are not going to play for England."
Bilic says his squad have developed a winning mentality - and believes that having retained Dimitri Payet, they can improve on last season's seventh-place finish in their new stadium.
He said: "It is a very dangerous one, it is the first season with a new stadium. We have to adjust. The atmosphere, we can't compare it with Upton Park but it is good.
"I was a little concerned about it because I know I played and I coached in this type of stadium, you have many of them in Europe like that and sometimes the atmosphere is not ideal but we have played two games there and you can feel the crowd.
"They are not as close as at Upton Park but you can feel them and the stadium will be packed. We are going to try to keep the spectators there with our performances. We are expecting big things.
"It won't come overnight. The new stadium, the new training ground and new goals - we have to continue to work hard to earn it.
"In keeping Dimitri Payet we have shown the club is serious and trying to get to another level, as much or even more than with the new stadium.
"West Ham was always labelled as a club that has to sell its best players, be it Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand or whoever. But we have kept Dimi, and we have shown to everyone that the club is thinking seriously."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Club president confirms bid for Rachid Ghezzal from West Ham United
Fri 5 Aug
Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed West Ham United's bid for Rachid Ghezzal.
Speaking to L'Equipe (via ESPN), Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas has explained that West Ham United have placed a bid to sign Richard Ghezzal.
Ghezzal was one of the most exciting attackers in Europe last season and his eight goals as well as eight assists went a long way in helping Lyon qualify for the Champions League.
Given Ghezzal's fine form, it has been no surprise to see a host of top clubs courting the services of the 24-year-old this summer and recently Premier League side West Ham have allegedly placed a bid of around £6.8 million for the winger (London Evening Standard).
Ghezzal has entered the final year of his contract at Lyon and despite West Ham's relatively low offer, it seemed like the London side would be able to sign the Algerian international.
Now Lyon president Aulas has confirmed that West Ham have indeed placed a bid for Ghezzal but has insisted that the player does not want to leave the Parc Olympique Lyonnais and that the club are looking to tie him down to a new contract.
"He wants me to talk with his advisors and so I'm going to call them this week to try to break the deadlock," Aulas told L'Equipe.
"I like Rachid a lot. It would be really good if we might be able to reach an agreement. We have received offers for him, including the one from West Ham.
"I know that Rachid doesn't want to leave Lyon so we have to find an agreement so as not to remain in a situation that's not good for either of the two parties involved."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic tips Andre Ayew to become an instant hit at the club
Published on: 10 August 2016
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic expects new boy Andre Ayew to be an instant hit at the club.
Ayew, 26, completed a club record transfer switch to the Hammers on Monday from West Ham United.
The big-money move has placed massive responsibilities on his shoulders ahead of the start of the new season this weekend.
And West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has tipped the Ghanaian super star to hit the ground running.
"Yes [I expect Ayew to make an instant impact], I mean a lot of players make it straight away, and some need a little bit of time to adjust," Bilic said at the official Premier League launch event in north London on Wednesday.
"His first big advantage is that he played in a big, big club like Olympique Marseille, he's an international and is captain of Ghana and is at his best stage.
"He's already spent one year in the Premier League so it's nothing new for him.
"Sometimes wingers, strikers or offensive midfielders need a bit of time, while centre-backs are centre backs and are just doing their job and don't depend on the team that much.
"The players are good in that they really make new players feel at home after a few days, so I'm sure we can expect some good football from the newcomers straightaway."
The second son of Ghana netted 12 times for the Swans in 34 appearances last term.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make €50m bid for Alexandre Lacazette-readwestham.com
According to reports in France, West Ham have failed in their latest attempt to sign Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette.
Lyon recently rejected a bid of around £29million from Arsenal and they've been true to their word about wanting to keep him once again by turning down West Ham's latest offer.
Jason Burt of the Daily Telegraph, thinks that Lyon would sell Lacazette for around £60million, but the player is only interested in moving to a side which is playing in the Champions League.
Whilst it will be great for West Ham fans to see that their club are actively trying to sign one of Europe's hottest strikers, they might feel that they'd rather see them targeting players who are likely to make a move to the Olympic Stadium, rather than making hopeful bids for players who have made it clear that they want to be playing in Europe's biggest club competition.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Trying To Sign Real Madrid Starlet
10th August 2016 by Jamie Smith
Real Madrid starlet Martin Odegaard could be coming to the Premier League, with West Ham United trying to tie up a loan deal for the wonderkid.
According to a report by Spanish newspaper AS, Odegaard's future could be wrapped up in the coming days as Madrid want a move to be completed ahead of their transfer ban beginning.
The 17-year-old, who is also a target for Bayer Leverkusen and Hamburg, have appealed against the ban with a ruling expected to be confirmed by the end of the week.
If the ban is upheld Real Madrid will be unable to register outgoing or incoming players, meaning Odegaard would be stuck at the club for 12 months even though he does not feature in Zinedine Zidane's plans.
Zidane left the talented teenager out of his squad for the Super Cup win against fellow La Liga side Sevilla this week, with West Ham keen to take Odegaard on a season-long loan deal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
