Have your say at the Supporters' Forum
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are planning a special forum on Tuesday 20 September to get
first-hand feedback on how the Club can give all supporters the best
possible matchday experience at London Stadium. Over recent weeks, the West
Ham Board have reviewed all the feedback and suggestions submitted to the
Club and are seeking to take action on all the points raised, but they are
also keen to hear directly from the Hammers faithful, and discuss the issues
with them. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home
and the inevitable settling in process, and we appreciate the support of
loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages.
Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in
which we can enhance the stadium experience. On a long-term basis, West Ham
are currently establishing a new format for the Supporters Advisory Board
for the 2016/17 season, designed to provide ongoing feedback from a
fully-representative sample of fans, and the Club are grateful for all those
supporters who have so far applied to take part. But in the interim, a
special Supporters' Forum will be held on Tuesday 20 September so that West
Ham Board members and other senior Club representatives have a chance to
hear face-to-face from the fans what is working well at London Stadium, and
where there is room for improvement. Invitations have already gone out to
every fan who formed part of the previous Supporters Advisory Board for the
2015/16 season, and to more than a thousand Founders who have so far
submitted feedback via our dedicated email service at
foundersfeedback@westhamunited.co.uk.
However, West Ham are keen to hear from the broadest possible cross-section
of the Club's support, so if you would like to register your interest in
attending, please email supporterservices@westhamunited.co.uk by 12 noon on
Friday 16 September, and tell us the question or issue that you want to
raise. As we are doing with the new Supporters Advisory Board, the Club will
ensure that this Forum features the widest range of experiences at London
Stadium, so we will select attendees from every different area in each
stand, and whose views and questions represent the full spectrum we have
received. If you apply to attend, you will be told by the end of Friday
afternoon whether your application is successful, but even if it is not, you
can rest assured that the issues you have raised will be discussed. Thank
you all again for your willingness to help the Club provide the best
possible matchday experience at London Stadium. The West Ham Board look
forward to seeing many of you and discussing your views and suggestions on
Tuesday.
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Ladies earn first point of the season
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies 0-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
West Ham Ladies earned their first point of the season after a hard-fought
goalless draw against high flying C&K Basildon Ladies on Wednesday night.
The last meeting between the two sides ended with a flourish of red cards
after both teams finished the game with nine players, but there was to be no
repeat of bad behaviour as each side set out to let their football do the
talking under the lights at Purfleet. C&K Basildon Ladies dominated the
first half but could not find a way through the Hammers' well organised
defence, and in-form keeper Deger Zekai who made some excellent saves. She
first denied Rushen and before then foiling Sinclair, whose shot looked to
have crossed the line before Zekai scooped it away at full stretch.
West Ham rarely ventured into the opposition's half and were limited to long
hopeful balls to Whitney Locke. Sasha Kelly, Kat Clifton and skipper Karen
Ray worked tirelessly in midfield to keep Basildon Ladies at bay. The second
half saw C&K Basildon Ladies begin to run out of ideas and they were
restricted to long range efforts as the well-drilled West Ham defence stood
firm still. Katie Bottom, on her return from India, was a class act in the
centre of defence, aided and abetted by Hannah Wheeler. At the final
whistle, Basildon Ladies were left to rue their missed opportunities which
could have seen them top the league, while the West Ham Ladies celebrated as
one as if they had won. It was a victory of sorts; their first point on the
board. Manager James Marrs was full of praise for his players after the
match but still admitted there is work to do. "We are still couple of months
away from attaining the fitness levels we demand to play the pressing game,"
he said. "But we're heading in the right direction."
West Ham Ladies: Zekai, Bent, Simmons, Ray, Wheeler, Bottom, Mackie,
Clifton, Locke, Kelly, Burr.
Substitutes: Sumpter, Bennett, Wilson, Miller.
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E20 confirm Chris Allison CBE appointment
WHUFC.com
London Stadium landlords E20 today confirmed the appointment of Chris
Allison CBE to work with London Stadium partners to make sure that the
'safety and security of all those using the Stadium remains of the highest
quality'. An E20 Stadium LLP spokesperson said, "We have appointed Chris
Allison CBE, a former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner, to work
with the London Stadium partners, London Stadium 185, West Ham United, LLDC
and Newham Council to help make sure that the safety and security of all
those using the Stadium remains of the highest quality. "Chris is a hugely
experienced officer with unrivalled expertise in major event policing, who
is familiar with the London Stadium from his work as the London 2012
National Olympic Security Coordinator and security advisor to Rugby World
Cup 2015. Everyone involved is focused on working together to deliver a safe
and secure venue for all spectators in the months and years ahead".
A West Ham United spokesperson said, "We appreciate that E20 have recognised
and understand our concerns. We welcome the appointment of Chris Allison CBE
and the insight and experience he will bring."
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Kouyate - We want to push on in the league
WHUFC.com
Kouyate says team have learned from mistakes they made against Watford
The Senegal midfielder has a special message for Papa Souare
Kouyate hopes to achieve success for both club and country this season
Cheikhou Kouyate is adamant his team have learned from the mistakes they
made against Watford last weekend and hopes they can bounce straight back to
winning ways over West Brom.
Kouyate was bitterly disappointed to see his side throw away a two-goal lead
at London Stadium, but hopes it is a one-off and his team can re-produce the
form which saw them enjoy a memorable final year at the Boleyn Ground. West
Ham enjoyed one of their best away performances at the Hawthorns last season
when they came away with an emphatic 3-0 victory. And Kouyate sees no reason
why they cannot enjoy another repeat performance and get their season back
on track when they travel to the Midlands on Saturday. Kouyate said: "We
should have been able to take the three points from the Watford game. "We
were leading by two goals, we started really well and I think that we were
in control. "Then when we conceded the goal to take it to 2-1 and then so
quickly after that they got the equaliser. We went in at half-time with our
heads down slightly. "We tried to pick ourselves up in the second half, but
we were unable to do so and these are errors that we will learn from and
won't be committing again in future matches. "The most important thing for
us to do is to go and get the three points when we play West Brom. "We are
in real need of points now. So it doesn't matter if it is me or one of my
colleagues that scores, what will please us the most is for us to go and get
all three points and then push on in the league."
Kouyate has a special message for his Senegalese team-mate Pape Souare who
was airlifted to hospital following a crash on the M4 motorway. The Crystal
Palace defender is expected to make a full recovery following surgery and
Kouyate hopes he will come back even stronger. Kouyate added: "My message to
Pape is that he needs to stay strong. We are praying for him and hope that
he will come back stronger. "It won't be easy for him and he will need all
of our support during his recovery. As a fellow Senegalese player, captain
of the Senegalese side and a fellow Muslim, I will be behind him all the
way, as will our fellow members of the Senegalese squad."
Kouyate recently returned from another successful trip with Senegal and has
big hopes for both club and country this season. "It was a good
international break for our side and the qualifying process has gone very
well. We won six out of six and so, we are very happy with the 18 points.
"The most difficult thing for us now is the African Cup of Nations next
year, but for the national side, our objective has been achieved."
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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest
update - in association with Spire Roding Hospital...
Hello everyone,
It has been a calm week in the Treatment Room, with no fresh significant
injuries to deal with. Mark Noble was the only new face to visit us, but he
will be fit and available to face West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The
captain required eight stitches in his left hand after a Watford player trod
on it during last weekend's game. He was in some discomfort and pain during
the second half, but manfully continued to complete the game. Mark is a
tough lad and, after having an extra day of rest, he returned to training
wearing a protective brace and will be fine for Saturday's game.
Aaron Cresswell and Andre Ayew are both progressing very well and have both
been running this week as they continue their recoveries from a knee and
thigh injury respectively.
Andy Carroll had a good week, during which he has made good progress and is
also running on the pitch. It is four weeks since Andy was injured in the
UEFA Europa League tie with Astra in Romania. He is working hard, but it
will take time before he is ready to return to action.
Diafra Sakho is also progressing. He has been running up and down the stairs
at London Stadium and skipping as he continues to build up his fitness, and
is now ready to take the next stage by increasing his training.
Finally, Alvaro Arbeloa is working very hard on the training pitch, having
arrived with us in a good physical condition. If all goes to plan, he will
be available to play some part in the EFL Cup against Accrington Stanley
next week.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
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10 per cent off for Claret Members
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have experienced a fresh surge from Hammers fans wanting to
sign up as Claret Members and gain priority access to matches at London
Stadium.
On top of an ever-growing Waiting List for Season Tickets, which now exceeds
55,000 supporters, the number of Claret Members hit a new high this week,
with fans eager to play their part in West Ham's historic first season at
the Club's new home.
Claret Membership entitles Hammers fans to first priority when tickets for
home matches go on sale, and both West Ham's opening Premier League games at
London Stadium were sold out exclusively to Claret Members via a ballot
process.
To welcome all the new Claret Members who signed up this week, and reward
those who have done so previously, the Club are offering an exclusive ten
per cent discount on purchases in the Stadium Store on Wednesday 21
September, when the Hammers kick off their English Football League Cup
campaign under the lights against Accrington Stanley.
To redeem this offer, simply show your Claret Membership card at the
checkout when you visit on Wednesday. Claret Members should also keep an eye
out for an exclusive online retail discount which will be announced soon.
Membership is priced at just £40 for adults and £25 for under-16s, with
supporters already on the Season Ticket Priority List eligible for a £5
discount.
Become a Claret Member now!
As well as one-week priority on tickets for matches at our new Stadium,
Claret Membership also gives you a whole host of other benefits including
access to the ticket exchange and ticket ballots; discounts on booking fees
and official away coach travel; and more exclusive retail offers throughout
the season.
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JACK SULLIVAN WRITES EXCLUSIVELY: "THE CLUB WILL NOT REST UNTIL IT IS
SORTED!"
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 8:21PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This article is written Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Ex has been pestering me about doing an article for a while now. So I
thought this would be a good time to do it! This has been my first week
working at West Ham, and it has also been a very eventful week and weekend
for West Ham too. Sadly, eventful in the wrong way, not only the result but
the problems we had at the stadium, both of which I find unacceptable.
First I will start with the result, which I know Slaven was far from happy
about! He even told me he couldn't sleep. The team's performance was the
best I've seen until the 30 min mark past! We looked exciting, fast and
dominated the game. Watford were up against it but sadly we gave them a way
back in. The one thing in football I hate to see is when a team shoots
themselves in the foot, which we did for their second goal. From then on the
momentum was with Watford, and they got another two goals in second half!
From Christmas last year we have conceded too many goals, I think it almost
averaged out at two goals a game! I personally believe it was because
Antonio was at RB, however this may not be the case, the problem maybe
deeper! Maybe the team is not working hard enough or we need a midfielder to
sit, almost what Nordtveit did at his last club! I was at the training
ground today and Bilic was enforcing defending making them put in challenges
and defending as a unit. Which is maybe just what we need! I have full faith
that we can sort this with players like Ogbonna and Arbeloa still yet to
kick a ball this year for us. For me Ogbonna will make a big difference as I
see him as our best CB at the moment.
I honestly believe we will score goals for fun with the strength and depth
we have in all attacking positions! We were in the top four on goals scored
last year and I can't see why that will change. I still have massive faith
in the team and management staff, and know that the set up at the training
ground is second to none. Rush Green is perfect from the gym to the kit-men
to the pitches. I was with the player liaison officer today and he was out
until 21:00 last night, looking for homes/flats for new players. Everything
is right at the training ground and it's only a matter of time until we see
that on the pitch. It's really important we sort out the goal problems and
keep a few clean sheets, as if the opposition can't score they can't win!
Thankfully not letting in goals is an easier thing to get right then to try
and score them. Eg. Sam at Sunderland last year, he got it right in a few
weeks.
However, the issues at the stadium is something the club are working very
hard to get right. Whilst the vast majority of supporters are always
impeccably behaved any fans fighting their own is awful, and embarrassing!
At the end of the day we are a big family and we need to stick together. I
still am in the mind that our new home is fantastic for me, it's beautiful –
my view is better than expected and the facilities are outstanding! For me
it's like coming to a cup final every two weeks.
However, there has been a few problems and I'm not going to gloss over that.
The club issued a statement that has identified issues with the stewarding
and we have insisted that the operator deals with this, and I know the club
we will not rest until it's sorted. The club has also already moved some
people around the ground into more likeminded areas, and will see more
segregation in place between the home and away fans by the next game.
Moving to such a new and vast stadium was always going to have teething
problems but I promise you the club is dealing with them, rather than
moaning about them! We expect we have made a few mistakes however now is not
the time to sit about however it's much more important to act on them
At the end of the day, I am a supporter in a very privileged position and I
hope this gives you more of an inside view as to what has been going on
behind the scenes. I hope you can give the staff at West Ham time to sort
out the problems, and I know they will. I look foward to seeing you at West
Brom.
COYI
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HAPPINESS IS A STRANGE AND WONDERFUL THING
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 9:57PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
COME ON YOU IRON IMAC
This article is written by Apu Vyas @apuvyas
Happiness is a strange and wonderful thing. Of course it is relative, what
makes you happy now is different from what would have made you happy when
you were 5. But happiness as with most things, there is no black and white
and science is still learning how it relates to the brain. Surprisingly,
emotions such as guilt, shame and pride activate areas in the happiness part
of the brain. If you combine this with the need to take action, to do
anything when in a stressful situation (a remnant of the caveman's fight or
flight instinct), you understand more of the reason why pointing out other's
failures gives us satisfaction.
Want, need and desire, instant gratification. Would anybody disagree that
the modern football fan is a ball of constant knee-jerk reactions and
emotions? We win a game and we're off on a Champions League tour. Lose and
it is worse than hearing that a giant meteor is on track to finish us off
and of course, it is all the board's fault.
This article is about perspective and focusing on something else that
triggers the happiness and satisfaction areas of the brain. Ladies and
gentlemen, I give you my far from definitive list of reasons to BE GRATEFUL.
We exist. No I don't mean that in an existential Descartes way. We exist as
a real football club, badge aside, the same entity that we have supported
all of our lives. Our Icelandic owners brought about a WORLD recession. Our
debt was horrendous relative to our size and means as a football club. I
really don't care how the Davids made their money, they saved us.
Portsmouth, Luton, Wimbledon, the list goes on of clubs that have gone into
administration.
We have great owners. They have put money into the club. They support West
Ham. They engage and interact with us. They understand how the Premier
League is changing and we are on the threshold of being a massive club.
We have Bilic. He got so much right last year. He also got lots wrong,
however each time he took steps to correct the mistakes and imbalance. Do
you doubt that he will do the same this season?
I just don't think you understand. We've got Payet, one of the best players
on form in the world right now.
Squad depth. No seriously, this is a serious squad.
Goals will come. Lots of them. Have you ever heard a manager go into a
struggling club and say that he needs to get the team scoring? No, the
easier option is to plug the defence. We were 4th highest scorers last
season and we have increased our firepower! Let me say that again in case
you blinked whilst you were reading that; We were 4th highest scorers last
season and we have increased our firepower! In Bilic we trust.
Speaking of the squad, there is a lot of improvement to come. Some will
return from injury, others will improve their match fitness and still others
will adapt to the pace of the Premier League. You ain't seen nothin' yet.
We are in the Premier League. Tony Fernandes' QPR aren't. Massive clubs like
Newcastle and Villa aren't.
We have a 60,000 seater stadium. It is the most well connected stadium in
Europe! Views are great inside. The sound is amazing. Season ticket prices
are the cheapest in the Premier League. There is absolutely NOTHING to
suggest that the teething problems will not get ironed out.
We support West Ham. We are the underdogs, we have the passion, the
humour, the best fans, the best songs. We all have our reasons for
supporting the Hammers, but not a single one of us is a glory grabber. It is
our tribe, our family.
It really feels like we are taking the first steps on an unknown journey. It
shouldn't be an ordeal, it is an adventure, but that is 100% down to your
own perspective. To paraphrase Henry Ford:
If you think it's great or you think it is rubbish, you're probably right.
@apuvyas is happy to discuss positivity, West Ham or even cars and vans
which he'll do you a great deal on!
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Former Police chief hired by OS operators
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 15th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Former Met Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison has been appointed to
oversee security at the Olympic Stadium. The news was confirmed this morning
by the stadium operators, who have been heavily criticised for their poor
handling of the arena's security since West Ham moved to Stratford.
Allison's appointment was announced via the stadium operator's Twitter
Channel. "Former Met Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison CBE has been
appointed to work with the safety and security team," read a tweet.
54-year-old Allison began his career in the Met during the mid-1980s as an
officer in Walthamstow. In 1996 he was promoted to Chief Inspector at
Hammersmith, where he was often invovled with the policing of Queens Park
Rangers matches. Four years later he became Divisional Commander at
Paddington, being pormoted to Chief Superintendent a year later. His speedy
rise through the ranks continued and with 12 months he had been made
Commander whilst also being named as Borough Commander for the City of
Westminster. In 2006 Allison was awarded the MBE for his work during the
2007 London bombings and in 2009 he moved up the career ladder once more
with an appointment as Assistant Commissioner with responsibility for
Central Operations, a role that included policing of the 2012 Olympics. In
2014 Allison officially retired from his latest role as Assistant
Commissioner for Olympic Legacy - a post described by colleagues as a
'non-role' - after allegedly falling out of favour with Met Police
Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe. His retirement arrived a year after he
was awarded the CBE in 2013 for "services to the security of the Olympics".
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Valancia was 'very, very happy' to get Everton offer
Date published: Thursday 15th September 2016 10:05
TeaTalk
Everton new boy Enner Valencia has explained why he snubbed Swansea to move
to Goodison Park on Deadline Day. Valencia completed a season-long loan move
from West Ham in a deal that gives Ronald Koeman's side the option of
singing the forward permanently for £14.5million. The 26-year-old appeared
al set to join Swansea before Everton registered their interest in the final
hours of the transfer window. Valencia says he was determined to link up
with Koeman as soon as heard of their Toffees' offer. "I had some options
but when I heard about Everton and saw the quality of the players, nobody
would say not to come here," Valencia said in quotes reported by the
Liverpool Echo. "It is a great opportunity to come here with great
team-mates and an excellent opportunity to have a great year in the Premier
League. "I got the news on the last day of the transfer market. I was very,
very happy with the news.
"I was talking with other teams but the best option was Everton. I am very
happy to be here. "This is a great club with excellent fans and I want to be
on pitch with my new team-mates.
"I have enjoyed training with my new team-mates, it's different to my last
team – it is a little bit harder." Valencia hopes Koeman uses him as a
striker, rather than on the wing.
He said: "The best performances of my career have come as a striker. "Last
year at West Ham I was used to playing as a winger which was difficult for
me because it is not the position I feel well in."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, September 16
Thursday, September 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th September 2016
Nolan - I have every confidence in Slaven
WHUFC.com
Former captain Kevin Nolan made his first appearance to London Stadium last Saturday and despite the home defeat against Watford, he still believes there is enough quality in the squad to challenge for a European place and a major trophy this season. Nolan, who made 157 appearances during his four-year spell, relished the chance to meet up with his former team-mates once again and believes the likes of Andy Carroll and Mark Noble stand a great chance of following Michail Antonio into the England set-up this season....
To be honest I have been blown away by the new Stadium. It is absolutely fantastic. I had the privilege to walk around and it is an amazing venue. Hopefully the team can start putting a good run together and carry on the success they had last season. The boys will definitely enjoy performing on this big stage and show the qualities they have got. I saw all the planning that was taking place and to now see it come to fruition and look the way it is, they have got it spot on. Last year the team fell short at the final hurdle at the end of the season. This year the team needs to be looking at winning a trophy and finishing in the top seven. It will be a lot more difficult this season as Liverpool have recruited well, Manchester United and Chelsea have also signed good players. You have then got the likes of Tottenham, Arsenal so it will be a tough season.
But I have got every confidence in Slaven and the players he has brought into the Club. With the squad they have got, they can still have a great season and compete for a trophy.One of the biggest moves of the summer was keeping Dimitri Payet and he was massive to what they achieved last year. But it was also massive to keep Manuel Lanzini at the Club. Unfortunately we lost Andy Carroll who was flying through pre-season and Aaron Cresswell early on through injury. But these are exciting times and when you see the players we have got, I am really excited to see what they can produce this season. I don't want to say anything bad about the Football Association but we did really well for a number of years with a number of English players and only Scott Parker and Matthew Upson got a call-up to the England squad. A lot more of our English players should have been called up because they performed really well.
We have now got Andy Carroll, Mark Noble, Aaron Cresswell and obviously Michail Antonio received his first call-up last week. It is exciting times for those boys because if Nobes has another season like the one he produced last year and they will definitely have a chance of also breaking into the set-up under Sam. I am still actively looking to get back on the pitch. I am waiting for a call which will suit what I need. I am keeping myself fit and just need to get the ball back out and shouting at a few people!
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Club to hold meeting on Founders Feedback
WHUFC.com
As many West Ham fans will be aware, we are currently in the process of setting up a new format for our Supporter Advisory Board, as we enter into the next crucial phase of life at London Stadium. The SAB plays a crucial role in the communication between fans and the Club – which is why the Club have reached out to last season's Advisory Board as part of the effort to continue improving the matchday experience at London Stadium. A representative sample of SAB members who have attended home matches this season - along with a sample of fans who have contacted the Club via our dedicated Founders Feedback channel, will attend a supporters' meeting with the Club on Tuesday 20 September, to discuss their view on the matchday experience at London Stadium so far this season. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home and the inevitable settling in process and appreciate the support of loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages. Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in which we can enhance the stadium experience.
If you wish to enter the selection process and apply for a place on the 2016/17 season SAB, you can find out more here.
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Foundation deliver One Goal
WHUFC.com
As the Foundation's hectic summer programmes come to an end, it is time to look back upon the best summer ever, reflecting on those programmes which have run for the second year following successful implementation during 2015. One of those initiatives is One Goal, the country's biggest free holiday programme, delivered by West Ham United Foundation in partnership with L&Q Housing and eight other London clubs to provide sport and creative arts projects for young people across London. One Goal uses sports and creative arts to motivate young people to be physically active, make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy creative pursuits during the school holidays. Last year, One Goal engaged more than 8,000 young people across London aged 5-21. This year, the programme provided free snacks and drinks to all attendees to help combat holiday hunger and move London towards its aim of becoming a 'Zero Hunger City'. The success of the programme has been celebrated by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (pictured above with Senior Community Officer George Chukwuma and Senior Inclusion Officer Austin Hughes, who said: "London is world-renowned for its sport and culture. "As Mayor I'm committed to helping young people lead healthier, more active lifestyles, so I am really proud to see this successful partnership between some of the capital's biggest football clubs and a valued housing partner continue for another year. "I'm confident it will inspire even more young Londoners to get active and creative during their summer holidays."
This year, the West Ham United Foundation has delivered multi sports including basketball, table tennis and athletics, provided workshops such as alcohol awareness and given participants the opportunity to get hands-on with a reptile display. Sham Motin, Community Sports Manager at West Ham United Foundation, said: "The One Goal programme is an excellent opportunity to provide young people in our community with free holiday provision. "We are grateful to L&Q for making it possible for over 300 young people to attend the course over the holidays, giving them a chance to be healthier through sport and to attend exciting workshops that they otherwise wouldn't experience." Keep up to date with everything on offer from the West Ham United Foundation here, or follow us on Twitter @WHU_Foundation.
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Adrian - We're confident ahead of West Brom
WHUFC.com
Hammers goalkeeper Adrian insists the side can bounce back from their defeat to Watford to get the three points this weekend at West Brom
The stopper also explained the mix up between himself and James Collins during the game against the Hornets
And after receiving his first international call-up, the 29-year-old described the experience of being part of Spain's squad
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian insists that the Hammers can remain confident ahead of Saturday's clash against West Bromwich Albion despite last weekend's disappointing defeat to Watford.
The Hammers raced into a two-goal lead at London Stadium but their Hertfordshire opponents scored four without reply to travel home with three points in the bag.
And though Adrian said the players were left mightily frustrated with the result, he assured supporters that the side can perform better to win at the Hawthorns.
"I think West Brom away is a tough game for us, but if we look at ourselves and if we give 120 per cent like we did many times last season, we have a great chance to win," the 29-year-old said.
"We have some players back on the team and we are stronger than last season. We have won just one game from four but we have a great squad and we've signed some good players.
"In the last match against Watford, we played much, much better in the first half but in the second half we lost our composure. The Premier League is so difficult. You can lose the game in one second."
After Odion Ighalo got the Hornets back into the game following Michail Antonio's double, Troy Deeney equalised on the stroke of half time following a mix up between Adrian and defender James Collins.
After the incident, the stopper explained exactly what happened in the build up to the leveller.
"Sometimes with the crowd there it's hard to listen to communication between the players but with us, we were talking. James was going to leave the ball but running with Deeney in his back, at the last moment, he touched the ball.
"These things happen in football sometimes and we have to improve, also on my part in terms of communication.
"The manager after the match didn't need to say too much because everyone was already angry and frustrated with the result. We can do much better. We have to improve on the mistakes we made and keep working."
Despite the disappointing defeat, the Spaniard has enjoyed a terrific few weeks personally, receiving his first international call-up for Julen Lopetegui's side.
Though he was an unused substitute in both Spain's 2-0 friendly win over Belgium as well as their 8-0 thrashing of Liechtenstein in FIFA World Cup qualifying, Adrian enjoyed the experience of being part of the squad.
"It was a great moment for me to get called up for the Spanish national team," he continued. "It's my fourth season at West Ham so the team has played well with great performances and with the new Spanish manager they have, he's given me the confidence to be one of the three keepers in the squad.
"I just keep working and want to do my best to get more caps.
"I have worked a lot because when you play most of the games, you get more experience. The Premier League is, for me, the most competitive in the world. If you're a number one for your team you get more experience and grow up with the team."
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Hammers pair Facetime brave Jack
WHUFC.com
West Ham United stars Dimitri Payet and Sam Byram put a welcome smile on the face of courageous young Hammer Jack Howard.
Jack, who is battling kidney cancer for the second time in four years, has been given just weeks to live, but his family are hoping to raise £250,000 in a bid to fly him to the United States for pioneering treatment.
On Sunday, the Club donated £5,000 to help the 12-year-old to get the emergency treatment that could save his life – an amount which Joint-Chairman David Sullivan matched with a personal donation this week.
To help keep the young Season Ticket Holder's spirits up at this challenging time, Payet and Byram gave him a surprise Facetime call on Tuesday afternoon.
The Hammers pair answered questions and wished their young fan all the best, with the Hammer of the Year telling: "We wish you a good recovery and we hope to see you soon in London Stadium."
Jack's father Nick said previously that the NHS had done 'absolutely everything they can for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments'.
The family naturally want to explore all options, including pioneering treatment in the United States, but have been advised it could be in the region of £250,000, subject to an initial examination, while a £75,000 deposit is also required.
More than £70,000 has been raised towards the family's target.
Jack's aunt Keely Howard, who set up a crowdfunding page to collate donations from family, friends and others, said, "We want to be ready to go straight away, there is no time to lose, every day, every week counts against us."
To donate to the fund to help Jack, click here. To help raise awareness of the brave young Hammer's cause, please use the hashtag #HelpJack on Twitter.
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PREVIEW: WEST HAM LADIES V C&K BASILDON LADIES
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 14 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 5:27PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is written by Alex Shilling
PREVIEW: West Ham Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies
Ship Lane, Thurrock FC, 14 September 2016, 7.45 kick off.
The Ladies take on Basildon tonight at Thurrock with every chance of getting their first win of the season in their first home WPL game of the campaign.
This local derby will see a couple of familiar faces return to West Ham and it is set to be a closely-fought encounter with both sets of players hungry for the points.
FORM:
The Irons put in a much-improved performance at Coventry on Sunday, losing by the single goal after a humbling by Spurs in the WPL Cup the previous weekend.
James Marrs' youthful side are still getting to grips with the division but put in battling performances at Coventry and Portsmouth and will be desperate to get their first points on the board tonight.
Basildon meanwhile have enjoyed a solid start to the season, easily brushing aside St Nicholas in the cup 10 days ago.
The Blues are sitting third in the WPL, with convincing victories over QPR and Portsmouth sandwiching a 6-0 defeat at a Charlton side many are tipping to win the division this season.
West Ham can move off the foot of the table by avoiding defeat tonight, while their Essex neighbours can go top with the same result if other results go their way.
TEAM NEWS: Former Hammers Stacey Little and Nikita Runnacles are in line for returns to their former club this evening, while Aditi Chauhan could make her first start of the season after sitting out the cup defeat to Spurs.
Defender Katie Bottom could also feature after returning from a two-week coaching course in India.
The Academy graduate will be keen to add to her tally this season, with some at the club suggesting her talents could be better used up front after a goal of the month contender at Lewes on the opening day!
DANGERWOMEN: The Irons will have to keep Sara Sinclair quiet if they are to emerge victorious this evening – the Basildon forward bagged a hat trick in her side's 4-0 win over QPR the other weekend and is always a threat in the final third.
The visitors meanwhile will have to stop Whitney Locke to win the game – powerful, pacy and with an eye for goal, the midfielder has the potential to cause any defence problems.
Tickets for tonight are priced at just £5 for adults and £1 for kids, so forget about the Champions League – get yourself down Ship Lane and come and see some real football!
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Fire Brady? They should give her a statue!
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Earlier today KUMB carried a story in which some Hammers fans called for the resignation of vice-chair Karren Brady following the club's move to E20.
And that prompted a number of angry Brady supporters to hit back, with one suggesting that the club should consider erecting a permanent effigy of the Baroness!
"Blaming Lady Brady for any of the current shortfalls in the new stadium is senseless," wrote KUMB member Grandad Hammer. "This is not our stadium, we simply rent it - the responsibility for the teething problems is with the landlord.
"She was an integral part of the team that negotiated the most incredible deal on behalf of the club. Don't believe me? Read what Alan Sugar has to say on the subject. A taxi for Karren? No, a statue would be far more appropriate."
High praise indeed, and words that were echoed by fellow Forum member ToiletDuck. "Brady is an amazing business woman," he said. "She must stay to oversee the change when anything happens to the two Daves.
"Is it her or the London Stadium management company that have arranged stewards, etc? Is it Karren Brady making everyone stand up or forcing people to fight? Not a chance! She knows how to run a club - look at Birmingham before and after her tenure! And look at us before and now."
Reaction to our earlier piece received both positive and negative replies via KUMB's social media channels, some of which you may read below...
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:) @kaz7289
@IaIanmac54 @kumbdotcom She has no say in how the stadium is run but was a massive part in us winning the bid with her connections.
3:50 PM - 14 Sep 2016
Retweets 2 2 likes
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Kezza ⚒ @KerryKezza1966
Just go ⚒ https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
4:48 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Trevor Dean @Mistermiggs
@kumbdotcom absolutely stupid. She's done more good for club than anybody. People need to drag themselves into 21st century. @karren_brady
3:02 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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STAN WHUFC @davestan64
Just give her a lifetime ban.... https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
3:43 PM - 14 Sep 2016
2 2 Retweets 6 6 likes
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Dilton @diltondiltond1
@JoshuaHearne @kumbdotcom you talking a load of rubbish! When going into a new Stadium there is always gonna be teething problems!
2:41 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Joshua @JoshuaHearne
@kumbdotcom She won't be but should be sacked.The "World Class" she describes everything is further from that! She has failed the "customer"
2:37 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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stuart barton @stuartabarton
@kumbdotcom I think it's time we all stuck together, Seeing WHU on tv each night for the wrong reasons saddens me, COYI one for all
2:45 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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We are West Ham, we are bigger than this - aren't we?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Paul Walker
I'm going to a football match on Saturday, and really, really looking forward to it. It probably won't figure highly on MOTD, but so what, I can't wait.
It's going to be played at one of those stadiums where the pitch is the same shape as the ground. (I know, it won't catch on.) And I'll be able to see the numbers on players' backs and even read their names.
I will stand and sing Bubbles to my heart's content, alongside the finest group of men, women and children you will find supporting any team in the world. Sold out.. 3,000. And there won't be a steward running towards me insisting I sit down.
Those fantastic people are our fans, my travelling companions. And they are probably looking forward to a weekend of football and not aggro in the seats.They might not all have been able to borrow the family brain cell for the afternoon, but it takes all sorts, they are pretty harmless even if they do throw beer about a bit too much (such a waste).
West Brom's away section will be rocking, lets hope that the West Ham we knew and loved last season turn up too!
But there will not be a hefty - very hefty - bloke in a hi-vis jacket wearing an orange baseball cap (you know who you are) throwing his weight about.
And guess what? I will certainly see a few of the local West Midlands plod (fine body of men and women) who will be close at hand, tolerant (well sometimes, this is the WMP, don't forget) and they will at least give a re-assuring feel to the proceedings.
You know, when I go to away grounds there always seems to be a couple of specially trained police walking around the bar downstairs, having a laugh, smiling, joking, chatting. Come on London Stadium CEO Linda Lennon, think about it. Even if they can't talk to each other on their Mickey Mouse phones!
Yes, I can't wait for the away trip to the Hawthorns. Smallish club, similar sort of stadium to the one we have just left, and they would probably consider that they were somewhat similar to us. Mid-table, going nowhere, but just happy to be in the top flight.
So now comes the devil's advocate bit. Take a look around everyone, is this what you want, do you really want to be like this fine upstanding Albion club for ever? Boing, boing, up and down we go!
They will never be a big club, never attract the best players. Never be in the Champions League. But we have been given that chance, I know there are countless problems and some pretty nasty stuff going on--and the stadium is nothing like what we were promised. World class, you must be joking.
But it's the only way we will ever be anything really special in terms of Europe and the outside world. Someone pointed out that Mark Noble has played over 350 games for us, and only about half-a-dozen have been in Europe. Says it all really.
So, through gritted teeth and against all my instincts, we have to show we are better than this, regardless of who thinks they own our club. We may have been "mugged off" as the phrase of the moment goes, but it's done now. There's no going back, let's move on. We are West Ham, aren't we? We should be bigger than all this.
The problem is I sense that so much of the off-field near anarchy at Stratford these days comes from a suffocating sense of resentment. That we have been dragged somewhere, kicking and screaming, that we don't want to be and who don't want us there.
We listened to all the PR from our owners, the hype and the, frankly, manipulation of almost everything. And we gave up, we knew it was not a fight we could win and we have gone with the flow to Stratford.
But the locals are not amused, are they. Stickers in pub window saying 'no football shirts' are not going to give an impression of an open-arm welcome, are they?
I found that out the first home league game when I asked a nice lady copper where the nearest toilet was as we forced our way out of Stratford station. She helpfully pointed one out just inside the Westfield entrance. Three large blokes all in black didn't think so, chased me into said loo and all but threw me out. Welcome to E20.
But I don't go to football to go shopping, I get enough of that at other times. If Westfield don't want us on the premises, so what. But it will be interesting the day that 3,000 Manchester United fans come sightseeing there. Can't wait for that one.
I go to football to support the club I have loved for close on 60 years, to be with mates, to have a wine or three. And a whine, yes, I can see that coming.
There has been such a nasty atmosphere at the London Stadium, you sense the one-cell brigade is bigger than I thought. Fighting each other. Are you sure? Frightening children? Spitting at women?
Take a look at yourselves people, just see what this looks like to the outside world.
Yes, there is plenty wrong with our new home. Let's face it, the view is crap, we are miles further from the pitch than I expected, but thankfully I am not in the posh, expensive seats on half-way where Slav has to run 30 yards to get to the touchline.
One of my good friends wrote something on the KUMB Forum this week saying the away end is in the wrong place because it encourages all away fans through Stratford station, and he is right. With a non-existent police presence and paper-weight, disinterested, rude, badly-trained stewards, I fear for the problems that will occur on the wide open spaces on the concourses inside and outside the stadium.
The security issues have been flagged up by countless fans from the very start, as a nightmare waiting to happen. But we are dealing with the local council, government quangos, and people who know nothing about football security at this level but still think they know best.
I wouldn't want to be dealing with councils and bureaucrats, I don't envy Karren Brady her job. The things you hear make you blink in disbelief. Like sending experienced former Boleyn stewards, probably all West Ham fans, to man car parks and lifts because if they were allowed inside the stadium they would watch the match. You mean like they did at the peaceful, well-run BML at the Boleyn? Sometimes you cannot make it up.
They say it's all about 'standing' fans. But it seems there were only seven complaints from 57,000 fans last weekend. There are far, far more pressing issues than that.
I have to say here, I have never encouraged or condoned standing. But it happens, and by thousands every weekend all over the country, and they are not treated like our fans are being. But that goes both ways, if someone behind you wants you to sit down, then just do it, for heaven's sake.
While we are on 'standing', I refuse to accept that it is right for a local authority to bully their tenants. Yes, I mean you Newham Council. There is no connection between 3,000 more seats being allocated and the grossly over-played so called dangers to safety from 'standing' fans.
We all now know it is not the law, but a civil matter. And that the regulation is a Premier League/Football League one. But that rule is surely unworkable, not fit for purpose because it is handled differently by virtually every licensing authority in the land.
Take a quick look around at TV. Arsenal fans all standing behind the goal at the Southampton match. Chelsea do the same next to the away section. Every set of away fans anywhere in the top two divisions are allowed to stand.
But our council are now flexing their muscles. They are in charge now, after 20 years of West Ham turning a blind eye. We have enforcement officers on the case, one Sheila Roberts (and please no grubby remarks about chains, handcuffs and basements please lads). She is also chair, I believe, of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Board, who hand out the safety certificates.
I suggest Newham take a look at how Manchester City Council handle this sort of thing. Manchester City have spent £60m extending the Etihad recently, and want to spent a similar amount at the other end of the stadium next summer to bring their attendance up to 61,000.
But City have standing, and have had for all the time since they moved from Maine Road. Our fans will have noticed when we were there last month that all the lower tier next to the away fans stand all the time.
Manchester Council would not even think of withholding a safety certificate because a few thousand stand each week. City bring millions into the local economy and their owners have regenerated rundown east Manchester for them.
At this point I must apologise to a few KUMB contributors, when I insisted recently that City own their ground now. They tried to buy it, but that's still pending. More investigation says they still pay a small rent with all the money going to sports facilities in the city. And Manchester City get a free hand to do what they like with the Etihad.
As I said, if the regulation cannot be enforced the same at every ground--home and away fans equally--then it should be scrapped. Unenforceable regulations and laws are worthless. But Newham seem to want to make a big statement here that you are not seeing anywhere else.
They should be hammering the owners for the poor stewarding, dreadful segregation, potentially dangerous concourses where fans can run from one section to the other. And those owners? Oh, yes, I forgot, they are Newham Council and the London Legacy Development Corp (LLDC). Silly me.
My advice is to give our owners their 3,000 extra seats (the other 6,000 are some way off even DG says) and work together making the stadium safer, to make it work, and to make people feel welcome.
I expect to be made welcome in the Black Country on Saturday; I did work there once, and understand the language. And I will find that excellent, massive pub that does curry for all with both sets of fans sitting together. I can't wait.
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Fans call for Brady's resignation over OS 'fiasco'
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have called upon vice chairman Karren Brady to resign in the wake of numerous problems that have marred the club's move from Upton Park to Stratford. Brady, who received a £1million bonus for winning the Olympic Stadium contract is being held responsible by supporters for the numerous issues that have blighted the club's opening games at the stadium. And now some have called for Brady - whose image was booed by fans last weekend when shown on the giant TV screens at the Olympic Stadium - to take responsibility for the problems by tendering her resignation. "Whoever outsourced contracts on things as important as health and safety and being in charge of the seating arrangements, and provided a migration policy that's caused fights, led to arrests and bans and has left kids crying and feeling scared, should bite the bullet and get the sack," wrote KUMB member Colours Don't Run.
"If Mannygate led to one of our staff being let go for what was a minor administrative error by comparison, I think this whole fiasco is also a sackable offence. I'm led to believe it's Lady Brady and if so, she should go."
Those thoughts were echoed by fellow KUMB member Wembley1966, who also believes Brady should fall on her sword. "She hasn't delivered the stadium in the manner that would have been expected and definitely not in the manner of the 'greatest stadium migration, ever!' he added. "Every day we are headlines in the papers, TV, radio and web for the things that she was tasked to deliver and hasn't. There's no contrition from her at all - just threats to ban anyone who causes problems that should never had the opportunity to arise in the first place."
However StaffordIron believes that firing Brady would be a step too far - although he maintained that at the very least, either she or the club should apologise to supporters for the manner in which the club's migration has been handled. "What I'd personally respect more than anything is for her and the club to come out and say 'actually we haven't handled this perfectly, there are some serious issues both safety-wise and logistically that we urgently need to fix'," he said.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet defends rabona against Watford
By Rory O'Callaghan
Last Updated: 14/09/16 12:40pm
SSN
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet has defended his audacious rabona assist against Watford. The French midfielder expertly set Michail Antonio up with the trick to hand West Ham a two-goal lead at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday. The Hornets, however, produced a remarkable comeback to win the match 4-2 and Watford captain Troy Deeney claimed his side were spurred on the belief that West Ham were trying to "mug" the visitors off. Payet has defended his decision to use rabona, claiming it was "instinctive" rather than an attempt to undermine Watford. "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," Payet told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course [I would use it]. Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
West Ham were soundly beaten by Walter Mazzarri's side at the weekend, thanks to goals from Deeney, Odion Ighalo, Etienne Capoue and Jose Holebas. Slaven Bilic's side had looked to be on course for a comfortable win when Antonio had scored twice early on, and Payet was willing to admit that the Hammers' second half performance was unacceptable. "Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two times," he said. "Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the second half, they managed to get another. "We lost this game and I think we didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it."
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West Ham star Dimitri Payet hits back at Troy Deeney after Watford skipper's 'rabona' showboating claim
16:44, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:45, 14 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
The Hammers midfielder has no regrets about his sensational cross which teed up their second goal but also fired up the Hornets
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet has hit back at Watford skipper Troy Deeney over his 'rabona' party piece and insisted: "I would do it again." Deeney claimed West Ham 's showboating fired up the Hornets and inspired their comeback from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at the London Stadium, saying: "They were trying to mug us off."
But Hammers playmaker Payet has no regrets about his sensational cross – football's equivalent of a snooker trick shot - which teed up Michail Antonio's second goal. The Frenchman said: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought it was the best thing to do at that moment and it worked. And when it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course I would do it again – but unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill you can use every time." Earlier, West Ham striker Manuel Lanzini had been less successful with a goal attempt from a rabona – and Payet accepts the Hammers need to focus on the basics in Saturday's trip to fellow strugglers West Brom. He admitted: "We need points, so we need to get our heads down and work hard. We will go there with the right attitude."
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West Ham target Carlos Bacca reveals why he rejected "very good" Hammers offer to remain at AC Milan
16:01, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:01, 14 SEP 2016
BY JACK RATHBORN
The Hammers reportedly agreed a £25million fee for the Colombian but Bacca opted to remain in Milan due to family reasons
The Mirror
West Ham heavily pursued Carlos Bacca but the AC Milan striker has revealed why he snubbed the Hammers and eventually ended up remaining with the Rossoneri.
The Colombian went cold on a move to the London Stadium, despite admitting West Ham's offer was "very good."
But the 30-year-old claims he rebuffed the offer due to concerns about problems his family may encounter in England without an EU passport.
"The offer of West Ham was very good I thought," Bacca told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser.
"I thought about my family, about how we would fit and problems that a South American soccer player can have in terms of the non-EU passport."
West Ham eventually shifted targets to Juventus' hit man Simone Zaza, who initially joined on loan with clauses that lend to the Azzurri international likely joining permanently next summer.
Meanwhile, Bacca has continued his success in Serie A with a hat-trick on the opening day of the season against Torino.
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Paolo Di Canio suspended after displaying 'dux' tattoo by Sky Italia
BBC.co.uk
Paolo di Canio has been suspended from his role as a Sky Italia pundit after showing on air a tattoo referring to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.
The ex-West Ham striker revealed his tattoo of the word "dux" during their Premier League coverage on Sunday, prompting a protest on social media.
The Latin word is the origin of the Italian "duce" meaning leader - Il Duce was the title adopted by Mussolini.
"We made a mistake, we are sorry to all who were hurt," said a Sky executive.
Jacques Raynaud, Sky Sports executive vice-president, continued: "After speaking at length to Di Canio, and despite his professionalism and his expertise regarding football, we have decided together to suspend the partnership."
Former West Ham striker Di Canio has previously been criticised for his political views and refused to address his reported beliefs when he was appointed Sunderland manager in 2013.
He was fined by Italian club Lazio for making the fascist salute for the third time in a year during the 2005 derby with AS Roma.
Mussolini was the fascist dictator of Italy for 20 years until 1943, and was summarily executed in 1945 when he was captured by Italian communists while attempting to flee the country.
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The curious case of Winston Reid: what has gone wrong with West Ham's star defender?
HITC
Damien Lucas
Amongst all the in-fighting and finger pointing at West Ham United after a terrible start to the season Winston Reid has escaped attention. When Slaven Bilic took over from Sam Allardyce the majority of West Ham fans felt their star defender Reid should replace the departing Kevin Nolan as the club's captain. At the time it was argued Reid was the only player in the Hammers side guaranteed to start every week. Instead that honour went to died-in-the-wool West Ham fan and midfielder Mark Noble and few can argue he hasn't done a good job after leading his side to their best ever Premier League points total in their emotional last season at Upton Park. But the East Londoners have got off to a terrible start this season.
Bilic's side have lost three of their opening four Premier League matches and scraped past Bournemouth in their solitary victory while also being embarrassingly dumped out of the Europa League by Romanian minnows Astra Giurgiu for the second season running. Fans at at each other's throats over standing at their new 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium home while Karren Brady - who spearheaded the club's move to Stratford - was allegedly spat at by her own supporters as things turned sour in a 4-2 home defeat to Watford last time out.
A toxic atmosphere is starting to fester at West Ham and fans are beginning to question some of Bilic's team selections and tactics. The likes of Sam Byram, James Collins, Manuel Lanzini and Adrian were criticised by supporters after the Watford debacle. And Bilic's continued use of Michail Antonio at right back is fast becoming his Achilles heel as a manager.
One player who has seemingly escaped any blame, though, is Reid - the man linked with some of Europe's top clubs before a long standing contract tussle ended in him signing a new six-year deal last year. If truth be told, Reid's form dipped last season and he has been a shadow of the player who formed the bedrock of West Ham's resurgence in recent years. Errors last season and rash tackles proved particularly costly - Chelsea and Manchester United away last season in the Premier League and FA Cup respectively. They were just two in a long line of examples, though, as the injury-prone New Zealander was in and out of the side for spells. Statistically Collins actually forged a much better centre back partnership with Italy international Angelo Ogbonna last season conceding a quarter of the goals the Hammers leaked with Reid in the side. It was glossed over by West Ham's superb season and the odd steady performance like including scoring the last ever goal at the Boleyn Ground in that thrilling 3-2 victory over Manchester United. This season Reid has continued to look out of sorts and is like a jittery bag of nerves every time he takes to the field. His awkward displays have been rubbing off on his teammates and he has shown no command of the back four. Consistently caught out of position for second balls the curious case of Reid is puzzling. Playing through injury? A change of tactics by Bilic? Or just a loss of form? Many supporters cannot understand why Ogbonna has been dropped but if recent performances are anything to go by it won't be long until he takes Reid's place in the starting line-up, even if it means Bilic tinkering with his defence yet again.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet speaks out on future ambitions
DIMITRI PAYET is desperate to inspire West Ham like he did last season.
By JACK STAPLEHURST
PUBLISHED: 05:20, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 08:11, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
The playmaker returned to the Hammers' starting line-up for the first time this season on Saturday. And, despite Payet's providing two assists, West Ham suffered on the whole in a shock 4-2 defeat to Watford. Fighting in the stands at the London Stadium added to the on-field problems too. However, talisman Payet is determined to help put points on the board for West Ham, who sit 17th after four games, and he is aiming to replicate last season's form. "Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season," Payet said. "I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both with my club and the national side. "The World Cup is still two years away so there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is going to come around very quickly." The 29-year-old's desire to stay in France's plans going forward is a strong motivation to continue starring at West Ham. Payet shone at Euro 2016 after a successful first season in east London, and a stunning Rabona to set up Michail Antonio at the weekend again highlighted his talent.
On the skill, he added: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course (I would do it again). Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
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DIMITRI PAYET RESPONDS TO TROY DEENEY COMMENTS ABOUT WEST HAM ARROGANCE
14th September, 2016, 1:37 PM
By Dominic Toner
Dimitri Payet has defended his use of the rabona assist in West Ham's 4-2 defeat to Watford last weekend. Hornets captain Troy Deeney made comments on Payet's eyecatching cross for the second Hammers goal after the match and said that West Ham's arrogance allowed them back into the game. Denney revealed that he appreciates the skill shown by Payet but thought it was wrong to be doing it with the game still in the balance. The Hammers had taken a two-goal lead thanks to a double from Michail Antonio which included a header from Payet's rabona cross, but Watford completed a remarkable turnaround to take the three points. Payet, 29, has said that the cross was an instinctive decision and defended the use of the rabona, which is when a player kicks the ball by wrapping one leg around their standing leg. It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," he told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Payet's undoubted talent saw him named as a PFA Player of the Year nominee last season and much of his game centres around his skill. The Frenchman has now returned to full fitness after recovering from his exploits with the hosts at Euro 2016. West Ham supporters have high expectations for the new season, with the move to the London Stadium completed, and are keen to follow up their seventh-placed finish lsat season. Slaven Bilic has been dealt with several injury blows at the start of the campaign and his side have already lost three games in their opening four Premier League matches. The return of Payet and Manuel Lanzini should provide an extra spark in the West Ham midfield and the pair will be focused on the next league match against West Brom. In other West Ham news, David Gold gave his verdict on Twitter to the club's defeat against Watford.
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Agent explains how West Ham missed out on top striker target in the summer
CARLOS BACCA's agent has opened up on West Ham's failed attempt to sign the AC Milan striker in the summer.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 13:25, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 13:42, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
West Ham made no secret of their desire to land a new striker, with Milan's Bacca high up on their wish list. The Hammers reportedly made a £25.7million offer but failed in their bid to bring the Colombia international to the London Stadium. Slaven Bilic instead brought in Andre Ayew in a club-record £20m deal from Swansea, along with Simone Zaza from Juventus and Deportivo Maldonado's Jonathan Calleri on loan. And Bacca's agent Sergio Barila claims there were a number of offers on the table in the closing stages of the transfer window, but Milan turned them all down. He told he told calciomercato.it: "West Ham? In the last week of the market, many offers arrived, and not only West Ham ones. At the end Milan said no."
Barila also claims that Bacca wanted to remain at Milan and is open to signing a new contract at the Serie A club The representative added: "Many requests arrived but Bacca's will has been always clear for me. He wanted to stay at Milan. His family is happy in Milan and this is an important thing. "Our will is to win with Milan in the coming years so we are open to a renewal, but we will talk about it later. Now our minds and concentration are only to the pitch."
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Sergio Agüero foul on Winston Reid 'brutal', rules independent commission
• Panel say Manchester City player endangered safety of West Ham opponent
• Striker remains banned for next two Premier League matches over incident
Guardian sport
Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.50 BST Last modified on Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.51 BST
An independent commission has ruled that the controverisal elbowing by Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero of West Ham's Winston Reid in a Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium last month was a "brutal" incident that "clearly endangered the safety" of the Hammers player. Aguero earned a three-game ban for the action, which happened in the August 28 meeting between the two clubs. He missed last weekend's Manchester derby and will also not be available for this month's domestic games against Bournemouth and Swansea. The incident was not seen at the time of the incident by referee Andre Marriner, or other match officials, but caught on video.
In written reasons published by the Football Association on Wednesday, the three-man commission, chaired by Stuart Ripley, agreed that Aguero had "thrown out his left arm in an aggressive manner that was excessive in force and brutal, which clearly endangered the safety of Mr Reid." The commission also noted "the clenched fist of Mr Aguero as he threw his left elbow towards Mr Reid, the upward angle of the movement and the force of the movement." In an email to the commission, referee Marriner stated he " … did not see the full extent of the incident and in particular where Sergio Aguero's hand had finished up in the challenge, which clearly catches Winston Reid in the throat region." Manchester City appealed against the ban but the commission were unanimous in their decision that the video evidence was conclusive. "The commission could not see anything 'truly exceptional' about the incident." said Mr Ripley. "The incident was simply a 'one v one' tussle for the ball, such that is seen many times during any football match, whereby one of the players had used excessive force and brutality against the other."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Former captain Kevin Nolan made his first appearance to London Stadium last Saturday and despite the home defeat against Watford, he still believes there is enough quality in the squad to challenge for a European place and a major trophy this season. Nolan, who made 157 appearances during his four-year spell, relished the chance to meet up with his former team-mates once again and believes the likes of Andy Carroll and Mark Noble stand a great chance of following Michail Antonio into the England set-up this season....
To be honest I have been blown away by the new Stadium. It is absolutely fantastic. I had the privilege to walk around and it is an amazing venue. Hopefully the team can start putting a good run together and carry on the success they had last season. The boys will definitely enjoy performing on this big stage and show the qualities they have got. I saw all the planning that was taking place and to now see it come to fruition and look the way it is, they have got it spot on. Last year the team fell short at the final hurdle at the end of the season. This year the team needs to be looking at winning a trophy and finishing in the top seven. It will be a lot more difficult this season as Liverpool have recruited well, Manchester United and Chelsea have also signed good players. You have then got the likes of Tottenham, Arsenal so it will be a tough season.
But I have got every confidence in Slaven and the players he has brought into the Club. With the squad they have got, they can still have a great season and compete for a trophy.One of the biggest moves of the summer was keeping Dimitri Payet and he was massive to what they achieved last year. But it was also massive to keep Manuel Lanzini at the Club. Unfortunately we lost Andy Carroll who was flying through pre-season and Aaron Cresswell early on through injury. But these are exciting times and when you see the players we have got, I am really excited to see what they can produce this season. I don't want to say anything bad about the Football Association but we did really well for a number of years with a number of English players and only Scott Parker and Matthew Upson got a call-up to the England squad. A lot more of our English players should have been called up because they performed really well.
We have now got Andy Carroll, Mark Noble, Aaron Cresswell and obviously Michail Antonio received his first call-up last week. It is exciting times for those boys because if Nobes has another season like the one he produced last year and they will definitely have a chance of also breaking into the set-up under Sam. I am still actively looking to get back on the pitch. I am waiting for a call which will suit what I need. I am keeping myself fit and just need to get the ball back out and shouting at a few people!
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Club to hold meeting on Founders Feedback
WHUFC.com
As many West Ham fans will be aware, we are currently in the process of setting up a new format for our Supporter Advisory Board, as we enter into the next crucial phase of life at London Stadium. The SAB plays a crucial role in the communication between fans and the Club – which is why the Club have reached out to last season's Advisory Board as part of the effort to continue improving the matchday experience at London Stadium. A representative sample of SAB members who have attended home matches this season - along with a sample of fans who have contacted the Club via our dedicated Founders Feedback channel, will attend a supporters' meeting with the Club on Tuesday 20 September, to discuss their view on the matchday experience at London Stadium so far this season. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home and the inevitable settling in process and appreciate the support of loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages. Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in which we can enhance the stadium experience.
If you wish to enter the selection process and apply for a place on the 2016/17 season SAB, you can find out more here.
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Foundation deliver One Goal
WHUFC.com
As the Foundation's hectic summer programmes come to an end, it is time to look back upon the best summer ever, reflecting on those programmes which have run for the second year following successful implementation during 2015. One of those initiatives is One Goal, the country's biggest free holiday programme, delivered by West Ham United Foundation in partnership with L&Q Housing and eight other London clubs to provide sport and creative arts projects for young people across London. One Goal uses sports and creative arts to motivate young people to be physically active, make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy creative pursuits during the school holidays. Last year, One Goal engaged more than 8,000 young people across London aged 5-21. This year, the programme provided free snacks and drinks to all attendees to help combat holiday hunger and move London towards its aim of becoming a 'Zero Hunger City'. The success of the programme has been celebrated by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (pictured above with Senior Community Officer George Chukwuma and Senior Inclusion Officer Austin Hughes, who said: "London is world-renowned for its sport and culture. "As Mayor I'm committed to helping young people lead healthier, more active lifestyles, so I am really proud to see this successful partnership between some of the capital's biggest football clubs and a valued housing partner continue for another year. "I'm confident it will inspire even more young Londoners to get active and creative during their summer holidays."
This year, the West Ham United Foundation has delivered multi sports including basketball, table tennis and athletics, provided workshops such as alcohol awareness and given participants the opportunity to get hands-on with a reptile display. Sham Motin, Community Sports Manager at West Ham United Foundation, said: "The One Goal programme is an excellent opportunity to provide young people in our community with free holiday provision. "We are grateful to L&Q for making it possible for over 300 young people to attend the course over the holidays, giving them a chance to be healthier through sport and to attend exciting workshops that they otherwise wouldn't experience." Keep up to date with everything on offer from the West Ham United Foundation here, or follow us on Twitter @WHU_Foundation.
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Adrian - We're confident ahead of West Brom
WHUFC.com
Hammers goalkeeper Adrian insists the side can bounce back from their defeat to Watford to get the three points this weekend at West Brom
The stopper also explained the mix up between himself and James Collins during the game against the Hornets
And after receiving his first international call-up, the 29-year-old described the experience of being part of Spain's squad
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian insists that the Hammers can remain confident ahead of Saturday's clash against West Bromwich Albion despite last weekend's disappointing defeat to Watford.
The Hammers raced into a two-goal lead at London Stadium but their Hertfordshire opponents scored four without reply to travel home with three points in the bag.
And though Adrian said the players were left mightily frustrated with the result, he assured supporters that the side can perform better to win at the Hawthorns.
"I think West Brom away is a tough game for us, but if we look at ourselves and if we give 120 per cent like we did many times last season, we have a great chance to win," the 29-year-old said.
"We have some players back on the team and we are stronger than last season. We have won just one game from four but we have a great squad and we've signed some good players.
"In the last match against Watford, we played much, much better in the first half but in the second half we lost our composure. The Premier League is so difficult. You can lose the game in one second."
After Odion Ighalo got the Hornets back into the game following Michail Antonio's double, Troy Deeney equalised on the stroke of half time following a mix up between Adrian and defender James Collins.
After the incident, the stopper explained exactly what happened in the build up to the leveller.
"Sometimes with the crowd there it's hard to listen to communication between the players but with us, we were talking. James was going to leave the ball but running with Deeney in his back, at the last moment, he touched the ball.
"These things happen in football sometimes and we have to improve, also on my part in terms of communication.
"The manager after the match didn't need to say too much because everyone was already angry and frustrated with the result. We can do much better. We have to improve on the mistakes we made and keep working."
Despite the disappointing defeat, the Spaniard has enjoyed a terrific few weeks personally, receiving his first international call-up for Julen Lopetegui's side.
Though he was an unused substitute in both Spain's 2-0 friendly win over Belgium as well as their 8-0 thrashing of Liechtenstein in FIFA World Cup qualifying, Adrian enjoyed the experience of being part of the squad.
"It was a great moment for me to get called up for the Spanish national team," he continued. "It's my fourth season at West Ham so the team has played well with great performances and with the new Spanish manager they have, he's given me the confidence to be one of the three keepers in the squad.
"I just keep working and want to do my best to get more caps.
"I have worked a lot because when you play most of the games, you get more experience. The Premier League is, for me, the most competitive in the world. If you're a number one for your team you get more experience and grow up with the team."
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Hammers pair Facetime brave Jack
WHUFC.com
West Ham United stars Dimitri Payet and Sam Byram put a welcome smile on the face of courageous young Hammer Jack Howard.
Jack, who is battling kidney cancer for the second time in four years, has been given just weeks to live, but his family are hoping to raise £250,000 in a bid to fly him to the United States for pioneering treatment.
On Sunday, the Club donated £5,000 to help the 12-year-old to get the emergency treatment that could save his life – an amount which Joint-Chairman David Sullivan matched with a personal donation this week.
To help keep the young Season Ticket Holder's spirits up at this challenging time, Payet and Byram gave him a surprise Facetime call on Tuesday afternoon.
The Hammers pair answered questions and wished their young fan all the best, with the Hammer of the Year telling: "We wish you a good recovery and we hope to see you soon in London Stadium."
Jack's father Nick said previously that the NHS had done 'absolutely everything they can for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments'.
The family naturally want to explore all options, including pioneering treatment in the United States, but have been advised it could be in the region of £250,000, subject to an initial examination, while a £75,000 deposit is also required.
More than £70,000 has been raised towards the family's target.
Jack's aunt Keely Howard, who set up a crowdfunding page to collate donations from family, friends and others, said, "We want to be ready to go straight away, there is no time to lose, every day, every week counts against us."
To donate to the fund to help Jack, click here. To help raise awareness of the brave young Hammer's cause, please use the hashtag #HelpJack on Twitter.
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PREVIEW: WEST HAM LADIES V C&K BASILDON LADIES
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 14 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 5:27PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is written by Alex Shilling
PREVIEW: West Ham Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies
Ship Lane, Thurrock FC, 14 September 2016, 7.45 kick off.
The Ladies take on Basildon tonight at Thurrock with every chance of getting their first win of the season in their first home WPL game of the campaign.
This local derby will see a couple of familiar faces return to West Ham and it is set to be a closely-fought encounter with both sets of players hungry for the points.
FORM:
The Irons put in a much-improved performance at Coventry on Sunday, losing by the single goal after a humbling by Spurs in the WPL Cup the previous weekend.
James Marrs' youthful side are still getting to grips with the division but put in battling performances at Coventry and Portsmouth and will be desperate to get their first points on the board tonight.
Basildon meanwhile have enjoyed a solid start to the season, easily brushing aside St Nicholas in the cup 10 days ago.
The Blues are sitting third in the WPL, with convincing victories over QPR and Portsmouth sandwiching a 6-0 defeat at a Charlton side many are tipping to win the division this season.
West Ham can move off the foot of the table by avoiding defeat tonight, while their Essex neighbours can go top with the same result if other results go their way.
TEAM NEWS: Former Hammers Stacey Little and Nikita Runnacles are in line for returns to their former club this evening, while Aditi Chauhan could make her first start of the season after sitting out the cup defeat to Spurs.
Defender Katie Bottom could also feature after returning from a two-week coaching course in India.
The Academy graduate will be keen to add to her tally this season, with some at the club suggesting her talents could be better used up front after a goal of the month contender at Lewes on the opening day!
DANGERWOMEN: The Irons will have to keep Sara Sinclair quiet if they are to emerge victorious this evening – the Basildon forward bagged a hat trick in her side's 4-0 win over QPR the other weekend and is always a threat in the final third.
The visitors meanwhile will have to stop Whitney Locke to win the game – powerful, pacy and with an eye for goal, the midfielder has the potential to cause any defence problems.
Tickets for tonight are priced at just £5 for adults and £1 for kids, so forget about the Champions League – get yourself down Ship Lane and come and see some real football!
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Fire Brady? They should give her a statue!
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Earlier today KUMB carried a story in which some Hammers fans called for the resignation of vice-chair Karren Brady following the club's move to E20.
And that prompted a number of angry Brady supporters to hit back, with one suggesting that the club should consider erecting a permanent effigy of the Baroness!
"Blaming Lady Brady for any of the current shortfalls in the new stadium is senseless," wrote KUMB member Grandad Hammer. "This is not our stadium, we simply rent it - the responsibility for the teething problems is with the landlord.
"She was an integral part of the team that negotiated the most incredible deal on behalf of the club. Don't believe me? Read what Alan Sugar has to say on the subject. A taxi for Karren? No, a statue would be far more appropriate."
High praise indeed, and words that were echoed by fellow Forum member ToiletDuck. "Brady is an amazing business woman," he said. "She must stay to oversee the change when anything happens to the two Daves.
"Is it her or the London Stadium management company that have arranged stewards, etc? Is it Karren Brady making everyone stand up or forcing people to fight? Not a chance! She knows how to run a club - look at Birmingham before and after her tenure! And look at us before and now."
Reaction to our earlier piece received both positive and negative replies via KUMB's social media channels, some of which you may read below...
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:) @kaz7289
@IaIanmac54 @kumbdotcom She has no say in how the stadium is run but was a massive part in us winning the bid with her connections.
3:50 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Kezza ⚒ @KerryKezza1966
Just go ⚒ https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
4:48 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Trevor Dean @Mistermiggs
@kumbdotcom absolutely stupid. She's done more good for club than anybody. People need to drag themselves into 21st century. @karren_brady
3:02 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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STAN WHUFC @davestan64
Just give her a lifetime ban.... https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
3:43 PM - 14 Sep 2016
2 2 Retweets 6 6 likes
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Dilton @diltondiltond1
@JoshuaHearne @kumbdotcom you talking a load of rubbish! When going into a new Stadium there is always gonna be teething problems!
2:41 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Joshua @JoshuaHearne
@kumbdotcom She won't be but should be sacked.The "World Class" she describes everything is further from that! She has failed the "customer"
2:37 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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stuart barton @stuartabarton
@kumbdotcom I think it's time we all stuck together, Seeing WHU on tv each night for the wrong reasons saddens me, COYI one for all
2:45 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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We are West Ham, we are bigger than this - aren't we?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Paul Walker
I'm going to a football match on Saturday, and really, really looking forward to it. It probably won't figure highly on MOTD, but so what, I can't wait.
It's going to be played at one of those stadiums where the pitch is the same shape as the ground. (I know, it won't catch on.) And I'll be able to see the numbers on players' backs and even read their names.
I will stand and sing Bubbles to my heart's content, alongside the finest group of men, women and children you will find supporting any team in the world. Sold out.. 3,000. And there won't be a steward running towards me insisting I sit down.
Those fantastic people are our fans, my travelling companions. And they are probably looking forward to a weekend of football and not aggro in the seats.They might not all have been able to borrow the family brain cell for the afternoon, but it takes all sorts, they are pretty harmless even if they do throw beer about a bit too much (such a waste).
West Brom's away section will be rocking, lets hope that the West Ham we knew and loved last season turn up too!
But there will not be a hefty - very hefty - bloke in a hi-vis jacket wearing an orange baseball cap (you know who you are) throwing his weight about.
And guess what? I will certainly see a few of the local West Midlands plod (fine body of men and women) who will be close at hand, tolerant (well sometimes, this is the WMP, don't forget) and they will at least give a re-assuring feel to the proceedings.
You know, when I go to away grounds there always seems to be a couple of specially trained police walking around the bar downstairs, having a laugh, smiling, joking, chatting. Come on London Stadium CEO Linda Lennon, think about it. Even if they can't talk to each other on their Mickey Mouse phones!
Yes, I can't wait for the away trip to the Hawthorns. Smallish club, similar sort of stadium to the one we have just left, and they would probably consider that they were somewhat similar to us. Mid-table, going nowhere, but just happy to be in the top flight.
So now comes the devil's advocate bit. Take a look around everyone, is this what you want, do you really want to be like this fine upstanding Albion club for ever? Boing, boing, up and down we go!
They will never be a big club, never attract the best players. Never be in the Champions League. But we have been given that chance, I know there are countless problems and some pretty nasty stuff going on--and the stadium is nothing like what we were promised. World class, you must be joking.
But it's the only way we will ever be anything really special in terms of Europe and the outside world. Someone pointed out that Mark Noble has played over 350 games for us, and only about half-a-dozen have been in Europe. Says it all really.
So, through gritted teeth and against all my instincts, we have to show we are better than this, regardless of who thinks they own our club. We may have been "mugged off" as the phrase of the moment goes, but it's done now. There's no going back, let's move on. We are West Ham, aren't we? We should be bigger than all this.
The problem is I sense that so much of the off-field near anarchy at Stratford these days comes from a suffocating sense of resentment. That we have been dragged somewhere, kicking and screaming, that we don't want to be and who don't want us there.
We listened to all the PR from our owners, the hype and the, frankly, manipulation of almost everything. And we gave up, we knew it was not a fight we could win and we have gone with the flow to Stratford.
But the locals are not amused, are they. Stickers in pub window saying 'no football shirts' are not going to give an impression of an open-arm welcome, are they?
I found that out the first home league game when I asked a nice lady copper where the nearest toilet was as we forced our way out of Stratford station. She helpfully pointed one out just inside the Westfield entrance. Three large blokes all in black didn't think so, chased me into said loo and all but threw me out. Welcome to E20.
But I don't go to football to go shopping, I get enough of that at other times. If Westfield don't want us on the premises, so what. But it will be interesting the day that 3,000 Manchester United fans come sightseeing there. Can't wait for that one.
I go to football to support the club I have loved for close on 60 years, to be with mates, to have a wine or three. And a whine, yes, I can see that coming.
There has been such a nasty atmosphere at the London Stadium, you sense the one-cell brigade is bigger than I thought. Fighting each other. Are you sure? Frightening children? Spitting at women?
Take a look at yourselves people, just see what this looks like to the outside world.
Yes, there is plenty wrong with our new home. Let's face it, the view is crap, we are miles further from the pitch than I expected, but thankfully I am not in the posh, expensive seats on half-way where Slav has to run 30 yards to get to the touchline.
One of my good friends wrote something on the KUMB Forum this week saying the away end is in the wrong place because it encourages all away fans through Stratford station, and he is right. With a non-existent police presence and paper-weight, disinterested, rude, badly-trained stewards, I fear for the problems that will occur on the wide open spaces on the concourses inside and outside the stadium.
The security issues have been flagged up by countless fans from the very start, as a nightmare waiting to happen. But we are dealing with the local council, government quangos, and people who know nothing about football security at this level but still think they know best.
I wouldn't want to be dealing with councils and bureaucrats, I don't envy Karren Brady her job. The things you hear make you blink in disbelief. Like sending experienced former Boleyn stewards, probably all West Ham fans, to man car parks and lifts because if they were allowed inside the stadium they would watch the match. You mean like they did at the peaceful, well-run BML at the Boleyn? Sometimes you cannot make it up.
They say it's all about 'standing' fans. But it seems there were only seven complaints from 57,000 fans last weekend. There are far, far more pressing issues than that.
I have to say here, I have never encouraged or condoned standing. But it happens, and by thousands every weekend all over the country, and they are not treated like our fans are being. But that goes both ways, if someone behind you wants you to sit down, then just do it, for heaven's sake.
While we are on 'standing', I refuse to accept that it is right for a local authority to bully their tenants. Yes, I mean you Newham Council. There is no connection between 3,000 more seats being allocated and the grossly over-played so called dangers to safety from 'standing' fans.
We all now know it is not the law, but a civil matter. And that the regulation is a Premier League/Football League one. But that rule is surely unworkable, not fit for purpose because it is handled differently by virtually every licensing authority in the land.
Take a quick look around at TV. Arsenal fans all standing behind the goal at the Southampton match. Chelsea do the same next to the away section. Every set of away fans anywhere in the top two divisions are allowed to stand.
But our council are now flexing their muscles. They are in charge now, after 20 years of West Ham turning a blind eye. We have enforcement officers on the case, one Sheila Roberts (and please no grubby remarks about chains, handcuffs and basements please lads). She is also chair, I believe, of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Board, who hand out the safety certificates.
I suggest Newham take a look at how Manchester City Council handle this sort of thing. Manchester City have spent £60m extending the Etihad recently, and want to spent a similar amount at the other end of the stadium next summer to bring their attendance up to 61,000.
But City have standing, and have had for all the time since they moved from Maine Road. Our fans will have noticed when we were there last month that all the lower tier next to the away fans stand all the time.
Manchester Council would not even think of withholding a safety certificate because a few thousand stand each week. City bring millions into the local economy and their owners have regenerated rundown east Manchester for them.
At this point I must apologise to a few KUMB contributors, when I insisted recently that City own their ground now. They tried to buy it, but that's still pending. More investigation says they still pay a small rent with all the money going to sports facilities in the city. And Manchester City get a free hand to do what they like with the Etihad.
As I said, if the regulation cannot be enforced the same at every ground--home and away fans equally--then it should be scrapped. Unenforceable regulations and laws are worthless. But Newham seem to want to make a big statement here that you are not seeing anywhere else.
They should be hammering the owners for the poor stewarding, dreadful segregation, potentially dangerous concourses where fans can run from one section to the other. And those owners? Oh, yes, I forgot, they are Newham Council and the London Legacy Development Corp (LLDC). Silly me.
My advice is to give our owners their 3,000 extra seats (the other 6,000 are some way off even DG says) and work together making the stadium safer, to make it work, and to make people feel welcome.
I expect to be made welcome in the Black Country on Saturday; I did work there once, and understand the language. And I will find that excellent, massive pub that does curry for all with both sets of fans sitting together. I can't wait.
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Fans call for Brady's resignation over OS 'fiasco'
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have called upon vice chairman Karren Brady to resign in the wake of numerous problems that have marred the club's move from Upton Park to Stratford. Brady, who received a £1million bonus for winning the Olympic Stadium contract is being held responsible by supporters for the numerous issues that have blighted the club's opening games at the stadium. And now some have called for Brady - whose image was booed by fans last weekend when shown on the giant TV screens at the Olympic Stadium - to take responsibility for the problems by tendering her resignation. "Whoever outsourced contracts on things as important as health and safety and being in charge of the seating arrangements, and provided a migration policy that's caused fights, led to arrests and bans and has left kids crying and feeling scared, should bite the bullet and get the sack," wrote KUMB member Colours Don't Run.
"If Mannygate led to one of our staff being let go for what was a minor administrative error by comparison, I think this whole fiasco is also a sackable offence. I'm led to believe it's Lady Brady and if so, she should go."
Those thoughts were echoed by fellow KUMB member Wembley1966, who also believes Brady should fall on her sword. "She hasn't delivered the stadium in the manner that would have been expected and definitely not in the manner of the 'greatest stadium migration, ever!' he added. "Every day we are headlines in the papers, TV, radio and web for the things that she was tasked to deliver and hasn't. There's no contrition from her at all - just threats to ban anyone who causes problems that should never had the opportunity to arise in the first place."
However StaffordIron believes that firing Brady would be a step too far - although he maintained that at the very least, either she or the club should apologise to supporters for the manner in which the club's migration has been handled. "What I'd personally respect more than anything is for her and the club to come out and say 'actually we haven't handled this perfectly, there are some serious issues both safety-wise and logistically that we urgently need to fix'," he said.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet defends rabona against Watford
By Rory O'Callaghan
Last Updated: 14/09/16 12:40pm
SSN
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet has defended his audacious rabona assist against Watford. The French midfielder expertly set Michail Antonio up with the trick to hand West Ham a two-goal lead at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday. The Hornets, however, produced a remarkable comeback to win the match 4-2 and Watford captain Troy Deeney claimed his side were spurred on the belief that West Ham were trying to "mug" the visitors off. Payet has defended his decision to use rabona, claiming it was "instinctive" rather than an attempt to undermine Watford. "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," Payet told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course [I would use it]. Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
West Ham were soundly beaten by Walter Mazzarri's side at the weekend, thanks to goals from Deeney, Odion Ighalo, Etienne Capoue and Jose Holebas. Slaven Bilic's side had looked to be on course for a comfortable win when Antonio had scored twice early on, and Payet was willing to admit that the Hammers' second half performance was unacceptable. "Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two times," he said. "Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the second half, they managed to get another. "We lost this game and I think we didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it."
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West Ham star Dimitri Payet hits back at Troy Deeney after Watford skipper's 'rabona' showboating claim
16:44, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:45, 14 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
The Hammers midfielder has no regrets about his sensational cross which teed up their second goal but also fired up the Hornets
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet has hit back at Watford skipper Troy Deeney over his 'rabona' party piece and insisted: "I would do it again." Deeney claimed West Ham 's showboating fired up the Hornets and inspired their comeback from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at the London Stadium, saying: "They were trying to mug us off."
But Hammers playmaker Payet has no regrets about his sensational cross – football's equivalent of a snooker trick shot - which teed up Michail Antonio's second goal. The Frenchman said: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought it was the best thing to do at that moment and it worked. And when it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course I would do it again – but unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill you can use every time." Earlier, West Ham striker Manuel Lanzini had been less successful with a goal attempt from a rabona – and Payet accepts the Hammers need to focus on the basics in Saturday's trip to fellow strugglers West Brom. He admitted: "We need points, so we need to get our heads down and work hard. We will go there with the right attitude."
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West Ham target Carlos Bacca reveals why he rejected "very good" Hammers offer to remain at AC Milan
16:01, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:01, 14 SEP 2016
BY JACK RATHBORN
The Hammers reportedly agreed a £25million fee for the Colombian but Bacca opted to remain in Milan due to family reasons
The Mirror
West Ham heavily pursued Carlos Bacca but the AC Milan striker has revealed why he snubbed the Hammers and eventually ended up remaining with the Rossoneri.
The Colombian went cold on a move to the London Stadium, despite admitting West Ham's offer was "very good."
But the 30-year-old claims he rebuffed the offer due to concerns about problems his family may encounter in England without an EU passport.
"The offer of West Ham was very good I thought," Bacca told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser.
"I thought about my family, about how we would fit and problems that a South American soccer player can have in terms of the non-EU passport."
West Ham eventually shifted targets to Juventus' hit man Simone Zaza, who initially joined on loan with clauses that lend to the Azzurri international likely joining permanently next summer.
Meanwhile, Bacca has continued his success in Serie A with a hat-trick on the opening day of the season against Torino.
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Paolo Di Canio suspended after displaying 'dux' tattoo by Sky Italia
BBC.co.uk
Paolo di Canio has been suspended from his role as a Sky Italia pundit after showing on air a tattoo referring to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.
The ex-West Ham striker revealed his tattoo of the word "dux" during their Premier League coverage on Sunday, prompting a protest on social media.
The Latin word is the origin of the Italian "duce" meaning leader - Il Duce was the title adopted by Mussolini.
"We made a mistake, we are sorry to all who were hurt," said a Sky executive.
Jacques Raynaud, Sky Sports executive vice-president, continued: "After speaking at length to Di Canio, and despite his professionalism and his expertise regarding football, we have decided together to suspend the partnership."
Former West Ham striker Di Canio has previously been criticised for his political views and refused to address his reported beliefs when he was appointed Sunderland manager in 2013.
He was fined by Italian club Lazio for making the fascist salute for the third time in a year during the 2005 derby with AS Roma.
Mussolini was the fascist dictator of Italy for 20 years until 1943, and was summarily executed in 1945 when he was captured by Italian communists while attempting to flee the country.
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The curious case of Winston Reid: what has gone wrong with West Ham's star defender?
HITC
Damien Lucas
Amongst all the in-fighting and finger pointing at West Ham United after a terrible start to the season Winston Reid has escaped attention. When Slaven Bilic took over from Sam Allardyce the majority of West Ham fans felt their star defender Reid should replace the departing Kevin Nolan as the club's captain. At the time it was argued Reid was the only player in the Hammers side guaranteed to start every week. Instead that honour went to died-in-the-wool West Ham fan and midfielder Mark Noble and few can argue he hasn't done a good job after leading his side to their best ever Premier League points total in their emotional last season at Upton Park. But the East Londoners have got off to a terrible start this season.
Bilic's side have lost three of their opening four Premier League matches and scraped past Bournemouth in their solitary victory while also being embarrassingly dumped out of the Europa League by Romanian minnows Astra Giurgiu for the second season running. Fans at at each other's throats over standing at their new 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium home while Karren Brady - who spearheaded the club's move to Stratford - was allegedly spat at by her own supporters as things turned sour in a 4-2 home defeat to Watford last time out.
A toxic atmosphere is starting to fester at West Ham and fans are beginning to question some of Bilic's team selections and tactics. The likes of Sam Byram, James Collins, Manuel Lanzini and Adrian were criticised by supporters after the Watford debacle. And Bilic's continued use of Michail Antonio at right back is fast becoming his Achilles heel as a manager.
One player who has seemingly escaped any blame, though, is Reid - the man linked with some of Europe's top clubs before a long standing contract tussle ended in him signing a new six-year deal last year. If truth be told, Reid's form dipped last season and he has been a shadow of the player who formed the bedrock of West Ham's resurgence in recent years. Errors last season and rash tackles proved particularly costly - Chelsea and Manchester United away last season in the Premier League and FA Cup respectively. They were just two in a long line of examples, though, as the injury-prone New Zealander was in and out of the side for spells. Statistically Collins actually forged a much better centre back partnership with Italy international Angelo Ogbonna last season conceding a quarter of the goals the Hammers leaked with Reid in the side. It was glossed over by West Ham's superb season and the odd steady performance like including scoring the last ever goal at the Boleyn Ground in that thrilling 3-2 victory over Manchester United. This season Reid has continued to look out of sorts and is like a jittery bag of nerves every time he takes to the field. His awkward displays have been rubbing off on his teammates and he has shown no command of the back four. Consistently caught out of position for second balls the curious case of Reid is puzzling. Playing through injury? A change of tactics by Bilic? Or just a loss of form? Many supporters cannot understand why Ogbonna has been dropped but if recent performances are anything to go by it won't be long until he takes Reid's place in the starting line-up, even if it means Bilic tinkering with his defence yet again.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet speaks out on future ambitions
DIMITRI PAYET is desperate to inspire West Ham like he did last season.
By JACK STAPLEHURST
PUBLISHED: 05:20, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 08:11, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
The playmaker returned to the Hammers' starting line-up for the first time this season on Saturday. And, despite Payet's providing two assists, West Ham suffered on the whole in a shock 4-2 defeat to Watford. Fighting in the stands at the London Stadium added to the on-field problems too. However, talisman Payet is determined to help put points on the board for West Ham, who sit 17th after four games, and he is aiming to replicate last season's form. "Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season," Payet said. "I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both with my club and the national side. "The World Cup is still two years away so there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is going to come around very quickly." The 29-year-old's desire to stay in France's plans going forward is a strong motivation to continue starring at West Ham. Payet shone at Euro 2016 after a successful first season in east London, and a stunning Rabona to set up Michail Antonio at the weekend again highlighted his talent.
On the skill, he added: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course (I would do it again). Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
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DIMITRI PAYET RESPONDS TO TROY DEENEY COMMENTS ABOUT WEST HAM ARROGANCE
14th September, 2016, 1:37 PM
By Dominic Toner
Dimitri Payet has defended his use of the rabona assist in West Ham's 4-2 defeat to Watford last weekend. Hornets captain Troy Deeney made comments on Payet's eyecatching cross for the second Hammers goal after the match and said that West Ham's arrogance allowed them back into the game. Denney revealed that he appreciates the skill shown by Payet but thought it was wrong to be doing it with the game still in the balance. The Hammers had taken a two-goal lead thanks to a double from Michail Antonio which included a header from Payet's rabona cross, but Watford completed a remarkable turnaround to take the three points. Payet, 29, has said that the cross was an instinctive decision and defended the use of the rabona, which is when a player kicks the ball by wrapping one leg around their standing leg. It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," he told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Payet's undoubted talent saw him named as a PFA Player of the Year nominee last season and much of his game centres around his skill. The Frenchman has now returned to full fitness after recovering from his exploits with the hosts at Euro 2016. West Ham supporters have high expectations for the new season, with the move to the London Stadium completed, and are keen to follow up their seventh-placed finish lsat season. Slaven Bilic has been dealt with several injury blows at the start of the campaign and his side have already lost three games in their opening four Premier League matches. The return of Payet and Manuel Lanzini should provide an extra spark in the West Ham midfield and the pair will be focused on the next league match against West Brom. In other West Ham news, David Gold gave his verdict on Twitter to the club's defeat against Watford.
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Agent explains how West Ham missed out on top striker target in the summer
CARLOS BACCA's agent has opened up on West Ham's failed attempt to sign the AC Milan striker in the summer.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 13:25, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 13:42, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
West Ham made no secret of their desire to land a new striker, with Milan's Bacca high up on their wish list. The Hammers reportedly made a £25.7million offer but failed in their bid to bring the Colombia international to the London Stadium. Slaven Bilic instead brought in Andre Ayew in a club-record £20m deal from Swansea, along with Simone Zaza from Juventus and Deportivo Maldonado's Jonathan Calleri on loan. And Bacca's agent Sergio Barila claims there were a number of offers on the table in the closing stages of the transfer window, but Milan turned them all down. He told he told calciomercato.it: "West Ham? In the last week of the market, many offers arrived, and not only West Ham ones. At the end Milan said no."
Barila also claims that Bacca wanted to remain at Milan and is open to signing a new contract at the Serie A club The representative added: "Many requests arrived but Bacca's will has been always clear for me. He wanted to stay at Milan. His family is happy in Milan and this is an important thing. "Our will is to win with Milan in the coming years so we are open to a renewal, but we will talk about it later. Now our minds and concentration are only to the pitch."
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Sergio Agüero foul on Winston Reid 'brutal', rules independent commission
• Panel say Manchester City player endangered safety of West Ham opponent
• Striker remains banned for next two Premier League matches over incident
Guardian sport
Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.50 BST Last modified on Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.51 BST
An independent commission has ruled that the controverisal elbowing by Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero of West Ham's Winston Reid in a Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium last month was a "brutal" incident that "clearly endangered the safety" of the Hammers player. Aguero earned a three-game ban for the action, which happened in the August 28 meeting between the two clubs. He missed last weekend's Manchester derby and will also not be available for this month's domestic games against Bournemouth and Swansea. The incident was not seen at the time of the incident by referee Andre Marriner, or other match officials, but caught on video.
In written reasons published by the Football Association on Wednesday, the three-man commission, chaired by Stuart Ripley, agreed that Aguero had "thrown out his left arm in an aggressive manner that was excessive in force and brutal, which clearly endangered the safety of Mr Reid." The commission also noted "the clenched fist of Mr Aguero as he threw his left elbow towards Mr Reid, the upward angle of the movement and the force of the movement." In an email to the commission, referee Marriner stated he " … did not see the full extent of the incident and in particular where Sergio Aguero's hand had finished up in the challenge, which clearly catches Winston Reid in the throat region." Manchester City appealed against the ban but the commission were unanimous in their decision that the video evidence was conclusive. "The commission could not see anything 'truly exceptional' about the incident." said Mr Ripley. "The incident was simply a 'one v one' tussle for the ball, such that is seen many times during any football match, whereby one of the players had used excessive force and brutality against the other."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 14
Daily WHUFC News - 14th September 2016
The Big Interview – Dimitri Payet
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's French talisman Dimitri Payet talks Rabonas, Russia 2018
and returning to La Reunion...
It was a disappointing result on Saturday, losing 4-2 at home to Watford in
the Premier League, where do you think we went wrong?
"Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The
first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two
times. Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the
second half, they managed to get another. We lost this game and I think we
didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it.
For the second goal, it was an incredible bit of skill from you to cross in
for Michail Antonio, how much have you practiced that?
"It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. I
thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it
worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Will we be seeing the Rabona again in the next couple of games?
"If it worked every time, then of course. Unfortunately, it is not a piece
of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
What do you think Saturday's Premier League game at West Bromwich Albion
holds for us?
"We need points and so we need to get our heads down and work hard this
week. We will go there with the right attitude to go and get the win. We
know that every match in this league is difficult, especially away from
home. The key is to work hard and to go there with confidence and do what we
need to do on the day."
You were back with the France national side last week in Belarus, so how are
you feeling and what is the atmosphere like after the Euros?
"It went well for us. We had a great time at the Euros, we just lacked that
little edge to get the win. We have done well until now and we want to press
on with qualification for the World Cup in 2018."
This year has been a great year for you personally, do you feel that you can
continue that form in this new season?
"Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season.
I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both
with my club and the national side. The World Cup is still two years away so
there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is
going to come around very quickly."
You managed to get some time off over the summer at home in La Reunion, but
you had a busy schedule while you were over there, including a ceremony
naming a stadium in your honour at your old club in Saint-Philippe. How was
it to go home and to be welcomed by your fellow islanders?
"It means a lot to me to be received in that way. I feel such a connection
to my island and so to see the way they came out in force and named the
stadium after me, was something incredibly special for me. I try to
publicise and show off La Reunion around the world and so, if that works and
I can offer a positive image of the island, I will continue to do so."
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#ImagineBoleyn shortlisted for top award
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's stunning 360 degree Farewell Boleyn video has been
shortlisted for a 2016 Football Business Award.
The Hammers' entry, entitled #ImagineBoleyn, was produced by Ricoh, West Ham
United's official Information Technology Partner, in collaboration with
virtual reality specialists Immersive VR.
Narrated by star of film and television Ray Winstone, a lifelong Hammers
fan, the three-minute long feature incorporates high quality visuals, while
capturing West Ham's historic home of 112 years in a way never before seen.
The Club was determined to say farewell to the Club's stadium in a fitting
way, giving supporters the chance to continue to connect with the Boleyn
Ground for years to come.
Alongside fans' stories, photographs and memories, West Ham and Ricoh
created a fitting tribute for not only the Claret and Blue Army, but for the
wider football world.
The footage captured took fans to key parts of the Boleyn Ground, including
behind-the-scenes areas that would normally be kept from public view,
including the dressing room and players' tunnel, moments before kick-off.
Supporters were able to follow Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet out of the
tunnel one final time, all in all-encompassing 360 degree viewing.
To enable the maximum possible number of fans to enjoy the unique film, the
Club produced a trailer promoting it across the Club's website and social
media channels, before launching the full broadcast on the Hammers' and
Ricoh's official Facebook and YouTube channels.
The 360 degree video is one of six shortlisted in the Football Business
Awards 2016 Best/Most Innovative use of Technology by a Club category,
alongside submissions from Cardiff City, Chelsea, Manchester United,
Middlesbrough and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
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West Ham's plea for police help at London Stadium turned down
BBC.co.uk
Senior officers have turned down a request from West Ham to police their
stadium on matchdays - because the £700m ground does not have a
"satisfactory" radio system. The club requested a police presence in the
ground after crowd trouble. The Hammers only moved to the London Stadium at
the start of the season.
"Until there is comprehensive radio coverage officers will not be routinely
deployed within it," said the Metropolitan Police's Peter Terry. Mr Terry,
who is deputy assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and in
charge of specialist crime and operations, added: "The stadium operators are
responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. "This
issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has been in negotiation with stadium
operators regarding the provision of Airwave radio inside the stadium.
"During this time, the MPS had spoken to the stadium operators several times
to highlight the consequences of not installing such a system. "The MPS is
not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would
normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground."
A stadium spokesman said a decision to install Airwave was "reached in March
2016" and that the procurement and installation of the system "is the
responsibility of the police". He added: "We have fully co-operated and will
facilitate any access they require to carry this out. "The safety of the
stadium is paramount and all safety plans are agreed in advance by the
police and if there were any significant concerns the stadium would not be
licensed." In response, the Metropolitan Police said it commissioned Airwave
to complete the required work in May, and added that it is working with the
company to "ensure this work is completed as quickly as possible".
All of Great Britain's emergency services and more than 300 public safety
organisations use the Airwave radio system to communicate. West Ham
confirmed that 10 fans were ejected from the stadium during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford on Saturday, and there were more disturbances during the first
home Premier League game against Bournemouth last month. West Ham are
tenants at the London Stadium, which is owned by E20 and was built to host
the 2012 London Olympics.
E20 says it is addressing the recent trouble. Documents released last year
showed the taxpayer - not the club - would foot the bill for much of the
matchday operating costs, including security. "A blame game is now
developing over the violent scenes at West Ham's new home. The club says the
stadium's owners and matchday operator need to bolster policing, stewarding
and segregation. "However, it has also been suggested that West Ham could
have done more to plan segregated family and singing sections, rather than
prioritising the sale of season tickets, with the mix of traditional
supporters and thousands of new fans thought to have led to tension."
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE COLUMN: MY STADIUM THOUGHTS….
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 12 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 10:43PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
So this is going to be different to my usual type of column as I just want
to concentrate on the match rather than much else.
I have started to get into quite a routine at West Ham, meet up with a few
mates and then go for some beers and arrive to the ground about twenty
minutes before the match. I then catch up with all the friends who sit with
me and it feels like an exciting day out. I prefer this to Upton Park where
you couldn't meet anywhere as all the pubs were rammed and I always had to
drive to the matches as the trains were so poor.
The match started well. The first thirty minutes were amazing and the
atmosphere was spot on. The team looked on fire and I could see nothing but
a big win coming, oh how wrong I was. Terrible defending by Byram and a
combination of Collins and Adrian meant they were back in the game before
half time which was ridiculous. This is where the fun of the day started to
decline.
I went to the toilets, as always the prematch beers never give my bladder an
easy ride! As you go to the toilets in the East Stand there is no proper
queuing system because people filter in from all angles. A couple of old
boys took offence to the younger lads pushing in and asked them to go to the
back of the line. I used to see this a bit at Upton Park and usually the
accused would go to the back reluctantly. In this case both of the people
asked swore and called the old men a word beginning with C and it wasn't
carrot. I went outside to the food kiosks and bought a chicken burger and a
coke as I hadn't had any lunch, setting me back £10. In some ways this is
nice to be able to step outside and use the outside facilities but in some
ways it is worrying because any one could get in without ticket as there are
no checks going back in.
I got back to the seat and the team just looked like another team in the
second half. No effort, terrible defending again and little attacking
threat. It was in the second half where the atmosphere started to turn to a
horrible vibe. Where I am sat I could see fights breaking out to the left of
me, to the right of me and where the away fans met the stewards. The
stewards do not do anything, they stand there and watch. It is their job to
make sure the supporters behave. The problem is they are all young kids used
to dealing with athletics and concerts they are not trained. They need to be
put amongst experienced and loyal stewards from Upton Park. They also have
no police presence backing them up. Why are the police not in the stadium??
I just do not understand this. Apparently they have to be called in if
something serious happens. Thankfully the club have now insisted that E20
have a police presence and this should help with the situation. The police
will deter people from fighting and deal with it quickly if they do.
Considering every home game now I have been asked if I have been searched
and said yes and got through every time, it will not be long before
something serious does happen. What worries me even more is that we have
only played Bournemouth and Watford, teams I considered us to be friendly
with. I dread to think what happens when we play Spurs or Chelsea. The
club have again made it very clear to E20 that this is not acceptable and
that the stewards need further training.
One thing that has to be said though is that the fans part in this cannot be
excused. Yes it was a poor result, yes some fans are clearly wound up about
the standing and sitting but you don't need to turn to violence. You cannot
excuse someone who comes to a game and fights with his fellow fans
regardless of any other factor. Yes I believe this is happening more because
of the terrible stewarding but nonetheless these people need bans
immediately. I will not be taking my kids to the new stadium (something I
had planned to do) until this is sorted out.
The performances on the pitch do not help the situation. Had we won that
game we probably wouldn't be talking about all the fights now that we are. I
think I would make three or four big changes for the WBA game. I think
Ogbonna must play. At the moment I would say instead of Reid but Collins
hasn't exactly been on form this season either so I am not overly fussed
which one goes but Ogbonna must start. I think we need to get Arbeola fit
ASAP as Byram was very exposed at right back and I think we need someone
experienced there to come in. I would also think about dropping Adrian for
Randolph. I think Adrian has been weak on a number of goals this season
already whereas Darren hasn't let us down although of course this is a bit
of a kneejerk reaction.
The stadium problems surprise me because the club had brought in Angus
Kinnear from Arsenal and a few other directors to oversee our move to the
London stadium, like they had with Arsenal. They set up supporter advisory
boards dedicated to this and then quickly disbanded them. It baffles me that
no family section has been arranged or agreed before and that fans were not
suggested seats depending on whether they wanted to sing or not. These are
things that I believe we could have controlled. Things that I cannot
understand not being organised beforehand when families were choosing their
tickets. The club have now agreed to relocate these families which is a
positive step but one that shouldn't have had to happen because it should
have been sorted before the season.
The stewards are controlled by the Olympic committee and unfortunately we do
not have much say over them. The club had a big meeting today and have
lobbied the E20 for many changes in security and all for the better. Things
should improve.
As for the stadium, I understand people missing Upton Park, I do! I have
struggled to look at pictures of it recently because I miss going to the
games there. I was very pro the move however and whilst the stadium issues
have dampened my enthusiasm I think it is important to accept that there
were always going to be teething problems. I also think that like anything
it takes a while to get used to something new. If you have lived in a house
for 26 years (like I have had a season ticket) moving somewhere new always
takes a long time to feel like home especially when the landlord is not
doing their job properly. The bottom line is we cannot turn back and once
the results start to pick up on the pitch it will feel better. It felt good
for the first 30 minutes against Watford.
I think we have to wait until the end of the season before we can fully
judge the stadium. I understand the board's decision to move to the stadium
and do not hold any negativity towards them because I know this move was
done with the club's best interest at heart or so they believed. I think
mistakes have been made but thankfully we look like addressing them now.
When the team's performances pick up and we are at the end of the season,
then is the time to reflect back accurately on the success of the move.
I will bring more news in my next column but I wanted to have my say on the
issue. If you wish to vote for myself https://t.co/hZ7oo7IzFU , the site or
the podcast (see the West Ham Way Twitter Account) in the upcoming FBAs any
vote will be greatly received.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium infrastructure obsolete, say Met Police
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 13th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
A spokesman for Met Police claims that Olympic Stadium operators LS185 were
warned in 2014 that there was insufficient radio coverage inside the ground.
And the result of that particular oversight is that Police - who have
finally been given the green light to operate inside the venue - will be
unable to communicate once in the stadium until late November/early December
when the radio system will be updated. "The stadium operators are
responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. This
includes disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of
criminality," Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry
told The Standard. "The Metropolitan Police Service will fulfil its legal
responsibilities in relation to dealing with matters of criminality. The MPS
is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would
normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground.
Police are to be allowed inside the stadium for the first time after WHUFC
demanded a presence - but they have no adequate means of communication.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the provision
of Airwave radio inside the stadium. "During this time, the MPS had spoken
to the stadium operators several times to highlight the consequences of not
installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive Airwave radio
coverage throughout the ground officers will not be routinely deployed
within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators have
only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system."
West Ham United demanded a Police presence during a meeting with the stadium
operators LS185 yersterday, following a series of unsavoury incidents
witnessed inside the stadium.
An incident involving both home and away fans in the Trevor Brooking Stand
on Saturday was allowed to carry on for several minutes before Police
stationed outside the stadium were finally able to gain access. LS185 have
come under attack several times in recent weeks from supporters who have
been angered by sub-standard stewarding, poor security measures and the lack
of wifi access inside the ground.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark Noble urges West Ham to stay positive after disappointing start
Last Updated: 13/09/16 3:40pm
SSN
West Ham captain Mark Noble has urged their supporters to stay positive
after a difficult start to the campaign. The Hammers have lost three of
their four Premier League games so far this season, and suffered a 4-2
defeat to Watford at London Stadium on Saturday. West Ham were 2-0 up in
that game after just 33 minutes but capitulated to fall to 17th in the
Premier League table. The game was also played before a backdrop of trouble
in the stands, where 10 supporters were ejected and nearly 100 complaints
were made over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. But Noble
feels now is the time for unity and said: "That is the best we have played
for a long while, in the first half. A couple of mistakes have cost us and
we couldn't recover. "If we can go in 2-0 up at half-time it is a different
game, but the mistakes have cost us in the end. "There is a long way to go
and we have to stay positive."
Noble is also confident things will improve when key players such as Dimitri
Payet and Manuel Lanzini are back at full fitness after injury. "We have
still got new players coming in learning the league and we have a lot of
players in their second season," he said. "We have got players coming back
from injury like Manu and Dimi. "We have got to take the positives and we
played fantastic in the first half, but we conceded silly goals."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No police presence inside London Stadium for West Ham's next match
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 13/09/16 3:27pm
SSN
West Ham have failed in their bid to have police inside the ground at their
next home game following the trouble that marred Saturday's 4-2 defeat to
Watford - because there is no satisfactory radio system installed at the
London Stadium. A statement from the club on Monday night confirmed 10
supporters were ejected from the stadium during the game, with nearly 100
complaints made over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. No
arrests were made, but the club were adamant that stadium owners E20
guarantee a police presence when the Hammers take on Accrington Stanley in
the EFL Cup on September 21. However, deputy assistant commissioner Peter
Terry said the lack of a reliable radio system across the ground - an issue
highlighted in 2014 - means the Metropolitan Police Service cannot provide
extra policing. Stadium operators LS185 expect that radio system to be in
place in time for West Ham's next category C match, which is likely to be
the derby against Arsenal in December, but Sky Sports News HQ understands
there is frustration from the club that they are not allowed to run the
security operation themselves. "The stadium operators are responsible for
the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. This includes
disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality," said
Terry. "The Metropolitan Police Service will fulfill its legal
responsibilities in relation to dealing with matters of criminality. "The
MPS is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it
would normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the provision
of Airwave radio inside the stadium. During this time, the MPS had spoken to
the stadium operators several times to highlight the consequences of not
installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive Airwave radio
coverage throughout the ground, officers will not be routinely deployed
within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators have
only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system."
E20 and LS185 have also issued a joint-statement defending their actions and
insisting that infighting among the West Ham fans is the main problem for
the stewards. The statement read: "The safety of the stadium is paramount
and all safety plans are agreed in advance by the police and if there were
any significant concerns the stadium would not be licensed. "Saturday's
match was a Category A, low risk game and the police were based at the Park
Headquarters throughout to monitor events at the stadium. They were deployed
in the stadium when required, however the main pressure on the stewarding
during the game was from infighting among the West Ham United fans. "A
decision to install Airwave was reached in March 2016. The procurement and
installation is the responsibility of the police we have fully co-operated
and will facilitate any access they require to carry this out."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham vow to ban fans who verbally-abused Karren Brady during Watford
trouble
23:08, 12 SEP 2016 UPDATED 23:08, 12 SEP 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The club will review CCTV images in a bid to identify the culprits after 13
supporters were banned following events at Saturday's game
The Mirror
West Ham have to vowed to ban fans who verbally abused vice-chairman Karren
Brady after calling for more police and better stewarding at the London
Stadium.
The stadium operators announced announced on Monday that the 13 supporters
who caused trouble at Saturday's match with Watford will be banned from all
future events at the former Olympic Stadium. And the club will review CCTV
images in a bid to identify the culprits. But West Ham are not responsible
for security at the ground and want to "guarantee" a police presence inside
the London Stadium during matches. The club also called for the operators
to increase stewarding "in terms of numbers, but also in terms of the level
training and experience they have dealing with Premier League football
matches".
Scuffles broke out between rival supporters and West Ham fans and stewards
on Saturday over demands to sit down during the game. West Ham are also
looking to create a family area. A meeting between the club and the
operators of the London Stadium will be held on Tuesday. A spokesman for the
operators (LS 185) said: "As part of our review process, we will be taking
steps to strengthen the segregation measures between home and away
supporters. "In-fighting amongst home supporters has also given us cause for
concern and we will continue to work closely with West Ham United to
identify and take action against the small number of supporters found to be
responsible for these incidents."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham demand police presence and segregation at London Stadium after
reading riot act to landlords
20:19, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 20:19, 13 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
Crowd trouble marred the Hammers' 4-2 home defeat by Watford at the
taxpayer-funded London Stadium on Saturday
The Mirror
West Ham have demanded a police presence and more robust segregation after
reading the riot act to their own landlords. The Hammers' move into the
taxpayer-funded London Stadium was rocked by crowd trouble at Saturday's 4-2
home defeat by Watford. And some fans are at loggerheads with the club – and
each other – over the right to stand throughout the game. Although West Ham
have announced reinforcements of flimsy segregation between opposing fans
and insisted on policing inside the stadium on the Queen Elizabeth II
Olympic Park, the FA are still investigating the disturbances. Ten people
were ejected and the club received 47 complaints from fans – seven about
fans standing and another 40 relating to "anti-social behaviour" - after
Slaven Bilic's side collapsed from a 2-0 lead.
And the Hammers, who have threatened lifetime bans for fans who resort to
violence, are so concerned about the undercurrent of hostility they are now
appealing for supporters to grass on each other to stamp out the
disturbances. The disorder is embarrassing for co-owners David Gold, David
Sullivan and vice-chairman Karren Brady, who pulled off the deal of the
century to move West Ham from Upton Park to their rebranded 'London' stadium
on the cheap. Apart from £2.5 million-a-year in rent, the Hammers were
required to pay just £15m of the £272m needed to adapt the iconic 2012
Olympic venue for football. They are not even obliged to cover the costs of
police, stewards supplied by independent company LS185, pitch maintenance or
even household bills in their adopted home.
But it beggars belief that a Premier League club with 57,000 crowds at home
games – and a recent history of crowd control problems after Manchester
United's team coach was pelted with missiles four months ago – should have
had no police inside the ground. Watford fans complained of bottles and
coins being thrown, and home fans charging at the away supporters'
enclosure, in a feral atmosphere with echoes of football's hooligan excess
from the 1980s. And after urgent talks with stadium owners E20, West Ham
trumpeted "essential improvements" which should have been there in the first
place.
A club statement said: "Whilst West Ham United do not hold the safety
certificate or control security at the stadium, the club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters. "The club have insisted that E20 guarantee a
police presence in the stadium.
"In addition, the club have also specified a number of essential, important
improvements to matchday operations, including the need for LS185 to bolster
the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers, but also in terms
of the level of training and experience of Premier League matches. "This
includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home and
visiting fans. We have been assured this will be in place ahead of the next
match. "The club has already taken action to improve elements within their
control, including relocation of young children and families from areas
where the fans are more vociferous and the issuing of season-long bans for
anti-social behaviour. "We would appeal to supporters to report any
incidents to the club, as all complaints are fully investigated in
conjunction with CCYV footage with a view to issuing further bans where
appropriate. "The more intelligence the club has, the more pro-active and
focused all efforts to clamp down on anti-social behaviour will be."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham may face wait for police presence inside London Stadium over lack
of "satisfactory radio system"
12:58, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 13:11, 13 SEP 2016
BY JAMES WHALING
Some Hammers were involved in skirmishes during the match against the
Hornets leading to the Irons requesting a police presence inside the ground
The Mirror
West Ham will be forced to wait for a police presence inside the London
Stadium after violent scenes in the stands of their Premier League clash
against Watford on Saturday. Some Hammers fans were involved in skirmishes
during the match against the Hornets which led to the Irons releasing a
statement confirming they would request officers in the ground. However, the
Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that the behaviour of supporters
is not yet at a 'criminal' level, and that the lack of 'satisfactory radio
systems' means a presence will not yet be forthcoming. Metropolitan Police
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry, Specialist Crime and Operations,
told the Evening Standard: "The stadium operators are responsible for the
safety and comfort of their customers and staff. "This includes disorderly
behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality. The Metropolitan
Police Service will fulfil its legal responsibilities in relation to dealing
with matters of criminality. "The MPS is not able to provide Special
Policing Services at this time as it would normally, as there is no
satisfactory radio system across the ground.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and
the MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the
provision of Airwave radio inside the stadium. "During this time, the MPS
had spoken to the stadium operators several times to highlight the
consequences of not installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive
Airwave radio coverage throughout the ground officers will not be routinely
deployed within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators
have only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system." West
Ham released a statement last night confirming a full investigation had been
undertaken following the crowd trouble which saw children look on in horror
at what they were witnessing. As well as asking for police presence, the
Hammers confirmed 10 individuals had been ejected from the stadium, but that
no arrests were made. Seven complaints were made in relation to standing,
with a further 40 reports of antisocial behaviour within the ground. Mirror
Football have contacted West Ham for comment.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham investigate £6.2m signing of Arthur Masuaku amid fears club
overpaid for left-back
11:54, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 11:58, 13 SEP 2016
BY MARTIN DOMIN
Club signed French defender from Greek champions Olympiacos
The Mirror
West Ham will attempt to determine whether they overpaid for £6.2million
summer signing Arthur Masuaku. The French left-back joined from Greek
champions Olympiacos and has featured in each of the Hammers' opening four
Premier League matches. But the club believe he cost them £1m too much and
want to find out if someone not named on the official documentation was paid
commission. The club confirmed to the Daily Mail that they have launched an
investigation.
Masuaku, 22, spent two seasons in Greece after moving from Valenciennes in
his homeland. And after making his debut in the 2-1 defeat by Chelsea last
month, he said: "The Premier League is very fast and for me it was tough
physically as I am not 100 per cent yet. I just want to keep going, work
hard and hopefully show my best form." West Ham's first-choice left-back
Aaron Cresswell is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham investigate signing of Arthur Masuaku from Olympiakos
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 13/09/16 11:27am
SSN
West Ham are investigating the deal that saw French left-back Arthur Masuaku
join them from Greek champions Olympiakos over the summer. The Hammers paid
£6.2m to land the 22-year-old but it is understood club officials are
concerned they overpaid for the player by almost £1m. West Ham are concerned
someone was paid who was not declared on the official transfer document,
with a representative dispatched to Athens last week to establish if that
was the case. Masuaku came through the youth system at Valenciennes in his
home country before joining Olympiakos in August 2014. He played 65 times
for the Greek side before completing the deal to join West Ham that has now
caused concern. Masuaku has played in all four Premier League games for
Slaven Bilic's side this season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fans want action over London Stadium segregation problems
• Club to hold crisis talks with operators after trouble at last match
• West Ham demand police presence at new ground
Owen Gibson
@owen_g
Monday 12 September 2016 20.25 BST Last modified on Tuesday 13 September
2016 08.13 BST
West Ham fans are calling for urgent action to resolve stewarding and
segregation issues that have marred their move to the London Stadium, as
tensions rose between the club and the stadium's owners over violent scenes
on Saturday.
West Ham will this week hold talks with the operators of their new £701m
home, with each understood to blame the other for the situation that led to
home fans clashing with one another and with away fans during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford.
The club have demanded a police presence at the ground, which would have to
be paid for by the operators under the terms of the lease. West Ham's
executive vice-chairman, Karren Brady, was booed when her image flashed up
on the big screen on Saturday and she was verbally abused by some fans.
"The way it's going, someone is going to end up seriously hurt," said Graeme
Howlett, editor of the Knees Up Mother Brown website. "It's dangerous. We've
got so many accounts of fans trading blows, people having to dive on their
kids to protect them.
"The two big problems are probably that the migration from Upton Park was
not handled as well as it could have been and the second is that there is no
family enclosure."
A West Ham spokesman said the London Stadium did have a family section, with
two blocks reserved in the Bobby Moore stand, and thus complied with Premier
League guidelines. "The club is doing everything possible within its
jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all
supporters," the club said. "The club is working hard to move like-minded
supporters into areas to enhance their match-day experience."
By offering cheap ticket deals for minors and allowing existing season
ticket holders to purchase two extra seats at the new ground, West Ham have
25,000 family ticket holders in the stadium that has a capacity of 57,000.
Cheap season ticket deals and the allure of the new stadium have also
tempted new fans to buy season tickets. Much of the tension has been sparked
because fans who were used to standing for much of the match at Upton Park
have been told to sit at the London Stadium.
West Ham are believed to be concerned that the standard of stewarding has
not been up to scratch and will be seeking answers from LS185, the company
used by the stadium operators, Vinci, to handle the task.
"You've got the two different factions being separated by a handful of
stewards," said Howlett. "The majority of the stewards are not trained or
not able to act. It's ludicrous. There are no police inside the stadium. On
Saturday it took 15 minutes for a response team to come in.
"I have plenty of sympathy with those who want to be allowed to stand. We've
got this ridiculous issue where the home fans are told to sit, yet the away
fans are allowed to stand."
The LLDC is expected to argue privately that Vinci, which also operates the
Stade de France, has longstanding experience of overseeing sporting events
and that hundreds of thousands of fans have attended other events at the
stadium with no problem.
West Ham will seek to start relocating fans so they can sit with more
like-minded supporters but the process will be far from straightforward. It
is unclear what went wrong during the consultation process that was supposed
to ensure that fans sat in a part of the stadium with a similar atmosphere
to that they were leaving behind at Upton Park.
Brady is also expected to push LS185 – which must pay for all stewarding and
security within the stadium under the terms of the controversial tenancy
deal signed with West Ham – to improve stewarding and segregation.
The KUMB site has collated anonymous submissions from former Upton Park
stewards who claim their expertise and experience was ignored by the new
stadium operators. Among their complaints is that stewards are allocated
randomly to different parts of the ground and thus unable to build up a
rapport over successive matches.
Fans have complained that many of the 700-strong army of stewards have
little experience of managing football crowds, having been trained to look
after other events, and of inadequate security measures.
West Ham and LS185 have been asked to draw up a report for Newham Council's
Safety Advisory Group, while the Football Association has also confirmed
that it is investigating scenes that saw 10 fans ejected on Saturday and
three handed to the police.
Ten other West Ham fans had already been banned for life following incidents
at earlier games in the Europa League and the Premier League opener against
Bournemouth.
Both LS185 and West Ham are combing through CCTV footage and clips posted on
social media to identify perpetrators.
"As part of our review process, we will be taking steps to strengthen the
segregation measures between home and away supporters," said an LS185
spokesman.
"In-fighting amongst home supporters has also given us cause for concern and
we will continue to work closely with West Ham United to identify and take
action against the small number of supporters found to be responsible for
these incidents.
"We remain determined to ensure that all supporters can enjoy the best
possible matchday experience in a safe and secure environment and fully
support West Ham's efforts to migrate supporters attending in family groups
to dedicated sections."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United's 'Robust' Response To 'Watfordgate'
Submitted by nevillenixon on Tue, 13/09/2016 - 10:11
WestHamFans.org
The groundswell of opinion among fans and the massively negative press that
followed the 2-4 defeat to Watford at the London Stadium has, as expected,
invoked an immediate response from the club with the blame for events being
firmly placed on the stadium management and particularly on the security
company they use. The 'robust' response on the club's official website is as
follows:
"West Ham United undertook a full investigation into the crowd issues
immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today held a productive
meeting with stadium owners E20. Whilst West Ham United do not hold the
Safety Certificate (this is held by LS185) or control the security at the
stadium, the Club is doing everything possible within its jurisdiction to
help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all supporters. It is
important that we recognise the vast majority who have attended the first
five fixtures played at London Stadium have been outstanding with their
behaviour and support. They, like all at West Ham United, do not want their
reputation or the Club's to be tarnished by the minority. Today, the Club
have insisted that E20 guarantee a police presence in the Stadium. In
addition, the Club have also specified a number of essential important
improvements to match day operations moving forward, including the need for
LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers,
but also in terms of the level training and experience they have dealing
with Premier League football matches. E20 confirmed today that immediate
action is being taken on the issues raised. The Club will work tirelessly
with them to ensure London Stadium continues to be the inclusive and
family-friendly environment that all parties have worked so hard to achieve.
This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the Club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match. The Club has already taken action to
improve all match day elements within their control, including the
relocation of young children and families from areas where the fans are more
vociferous and the issuing of season long bans for supporters engaging in
antisocial behaviour.
The Club is working hard to move likeminded supporters into areas to enhance
their match day experience. This process commenced ahead of the Watford game
and has already proved successful in key areas. The Club will continue
prioritising this approach around the stadium.
In relation to Saturday's match against Watford: • 10 individuals were
ejected from the Stadium.• No arrests were made. • The Club received seven
complaints in relation to standing, although 40 reports were received in
relation to the antisocial behaviour in the stands.
The Club would appeal to supporters to report any incidents directly to the
Club, as all reported complaints and incidents are fully investigated, in
conjunction with a full review of CCTV footage from the day, with a view to
issuing further bans where appropriate. Supporters are requested to provide
as much information as possible, as the more intelligence the Club have the
more proactive and focused all efforts to clamp down on antisocial behaviour
will be. The Club will act on every piece of evidence all of which will be
collated and treated in the strictest of confidence. The Club now appeals to
all supporters to come together and support West Ham in the famous way we
have historically been so proud of."
At least the issues are being addressed, certain teething troubles were
expected following the move from the Boleyn Ground to the London Stadium,
but they have turned out being more root canal than a simple filling!
It does appear that the immediate issue that needs addressing is top of the
agenda, and that being crowd segregation. It is a blessing in disguise that
things 'kicked off' during the Watford match, and as much as their
'cheerleaders' would like to think, they were one of the 'softer' teams that
West Ham will face, even though the match was technically a London derby.
Had the visitors been from Tottenham or Chelsea the outcome could have been
horrific, and that is no over statement!
Negatives & Positives:
The obvious negative is that the publicity for the club has been atrocious,
images of fighting fans have been beamed all round the world, hardly the
sort of global branding envisaged by the West Ham hierarchy. Fans feel
'disconnected', not because of sight lines or atmosphere, more the fact that
the stewards treat them generally politely but incredibly inefficiently,
acting with no latitude, empathy is an essential element of crowd control!
The positives are that a major incident has thus far been avoided, and
henceforth the impending 'shoring up' between the away fans and the Sir
Trevor Brooking stand home fans will engender a feeling of increased
security and well being, especially among those who are accompanying
children. Because there has been such a brouhaha about the first few
matches, rival supporters have begun to think the london stadium is 'there
for the taking', the new controls being put in place should help snuff out
that particular cinder and hopefully people can enjoy watching a football
match instead of seeing an endless stream of hapless 'yellow jackets'
panicking as they try to diffuse situations they have little or no training
for.
The increased police presence is also a must, and one that will be welcomed
by all, even those who don't always see eye to eye with the authorities! It
is to be hoped that they can suggest the leaving time for the away
supporters in order to avoid clashes outside the stadium as well.
So: Build a wall to segregate the away fans, a sufficient metal barrier that
is high enough not to be vaulted and strong enough not to be knocked over.
Have a Police presence inside the Stadium, and insist on much better
training for the security staff. These actions will go a long way to making
a visit to the London Stadium a positive experience that can be recommended.
Of course we haven't touched on the issue of safe standing and family zones
yet, why on earth given the amount of season tickets held by under 16's, was
no provision made for a family zone? It beggars belief that the hard working
board of West Ham didn't perceive this issue before it had a chance to
develop. The safe standing problem will unfortunately run and run due to the
FA's vice like grip on any meaningful change to the rules, however common
sense can prevail if like minded souls are given the option to swap areas
that they are currently seated in and be positioned where they are not
obscuring the views of those who cannot or do not wish to stand, or those of
children. Of course by doing so the club would be surreptitiously condoning
standing, but technically they would just be 'assembling' like minded
supporters who like to 'sing and chant' more than others.
It is vital that West Ham United is seen as a club moving forward, and their
supporters not as a bunch of ingrates who cannot handle being 'gifted' one
of the best stadiums in the world, but as supporters who are embracing a
brave new world whist maintaining the core values that made West Ham many
opposition supporters' favourite second team. Come on you irons? - Ed
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's French talisman Dimitri Payet talks Rabonas, Russia 2018
and returning to La Reunion...
It was a disappointing result on Saturday, losing 4-2 at home to Watford in
the Premier League, where do you think we went wrong?
"Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The
first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two
times. Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the
second half, they managed to get another. We lost this game and I think we
didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it.
For the second goal, it was an incredible bit of skill from you to cross in
for Michail Antonio, how much have you practiced that?
"It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. I
thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it
worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Will we be seeing the Rabona again in the next couple of games?
"If it worked every time, then of course. Unfortunately, it is not a piece
of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
What do you think Saturday's Premier League game at West Bromwich Albion
holds for us?
"We need points and so we need to get our heads down and work hard this
week. We will go there with the right attitude to go and get the win. We
know that every match in this league is difficult, especially away from
home. The key is to work hard and to go there with confidence and do what we
need to do on the day."
You were back with the France national side last week in Belarus, so how are
you feeling and what is the atmosphere like after the Euros?
"It went well for us. We had a great time at the Euros, we just lacked that
little edge to get the win. We have done well until now and we want to press
on with qualification for the World Cup in 2018."
This year has been a great year for you personally, do you feel that you can
continue that form in this new season?
"Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season.
I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both
with my club and the national side. The World Cup is still two years away so
there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is
going to come around very quickly."
You managed to get some time off over the summer at home in La Reunion, but
you had a busy schedule while you were over there, including a ceremony
naming a stadium in your honour at your old club in Saint-Philippe. How was
it to go home and to be welcomed by your fellow islanders?
"It means a lot to me to be received in that way. I feel such a connection
to my island and so to see the way they came out in force and named the
stadium after me, was something incredibly special for me. I try to
publicise and show off La Reunion around the world and so, if that works and
I can offer a positive image of the island, I will continue to do so."
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#ImagineBoleyn shortlisted for top award
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's stunning 360 degree Farewell Boleyn video has been
shortlisted for a 2016 Football Business Award.
The Hammers' entry, entitled #ImagineBoleyn, was produced by Ricoh, West Ham
United's official Information Technology Partner, in collaboration with
virtual reality specialists Immersive VR.
Narrated by star of film and television Ray Winstone, a lifelong Hammers
fan, the three-minute long feature incorporates high quality visuals, while
capturing West Ham's historic home of 112 years in a way never before seen.
The Club was determined to say farewell to the Club's stadium in a fitting
way, giving supporters the chance to continue to connect with the Boleyn
Ground for years to come.
Alongside fans' stories, photographs and memories, West Ham and Ricoh
created a fitting tribute for not only the Claret and Blue Army, but for the
wider football world.
The footage captured took fans to key parts of the Boleyn Ground, including
behind-the-scenes areas that would normally be kept from public view,
including the dressing room and players' tunnel, moments before kick-off.
Supporters were able to follow Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet out of the
tunnel one final time, all in all-encompassing 360 degree viewing.
To enable the maximum possible number of fans to enjoy the unique film, the
Club produced a trailer promoting it across the Club's website and social
media channels, before launching the full broadcast on the Hammers' and
Ricoh's official Facebook and YouTube channels.
The 360 degree video is one of six shortlisted in the Football Business
Awards 2016 Best/Most Innovative use of Technology by a Club category,
alongside submissions from Cardiff City, Chelsea, Manchester United,
Middlesbrough and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
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West Ham's plea for police help at London Stadium turned down
BBC.co.uk
Senior officers have turned down a request from West Ham to police their
stadium on matchdays - because the £700m ground does not have a
"satisfactory" radio system. The club requested a police presence in the
ground after crowd trouble. The Hammers only moved to the London Stadium at
the start of the season.
"Until there is comprehensive radio coverage officers will not be routinely
deployed within it," said the Metropolitan Police's Peter Terry. Mr Terry,
who is deputy assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and in
charge of specialist crime and operations, added: "The stadium operators are
responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. "This
issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has been in negotiation with stadium
operators regarding the provision of Airwave radio inside the stadium.
"During this time, the MPS had spoken to the stadium operators several times
to highlight the consequences of not installing such a system. "The MPS is
not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would
normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground."
A stadium spokesman said a decision to install Airwave was "reached in March
2016" and that the procurement and installation of the system "is the
responsibility of the police". He added: "We have fully co-operated and will
facilitate any access they require to carry this out. "The safety of the
stadium is paramount and all safety plans are agreed in advance by the
police and if there were any significant concerns the stadium would not be
licensed." In response, the Metropolitan Police said it commissioned Airwave
to complete the required work in May, and added that it is working with the
company to "ensure this work is completed as quickly as possible".
All of Great Britain's emergency services and more than 300 public safety
organisations use the Airwave radio system to communicate. West Ham
confirmed that 10 fans were ejected from the stadium during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford on Saturday, and there were more disturbances during the first
home Premier League game against Bournemouth last month. West Ham are
tenants at the London Stadium, which is owned by E20 and was built to host
the 2012 London Olympics.
E20 says it is addressing the recent trouble. Documents released last year
showed the taxpayer - not the club - would foot the bill for much of the
matchday operating costs, including security. "A blame game is now
developing over the violent scenes at West Ham's new home. The club says the
stadium's owners and matchday operator need to bolster policing, stewarding
and segregation. "However, it has also been suggested that West Ham could
have done more to plan segregated family and singing sections, rather than
prioritising the sale of season tickets, with the mix of traditional
supporters and thousands of new fans thought to have led to tension."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE COLUMN: MY STADIUM THOUGHTS….
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 12 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 10:43PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
So this is going to be different to my usual type of column as I just want
to concentrate on the match rather than much else.
I have started to get into quite a routine at West Ham, meet up with a few
mates and then go for some beers and arrive to the ground about twenty
minutes before the match. I then catch up with all the friends who sit with
me and it feels like an exciting day out. I prefer this to Upton Park where
you couldn't meet anywhere as all the pubs were rammed and I always had to
drive to the matches as the trains were so poor.
The match started well. The first thirty minutes were amazing and the
atmosphere was spot on. The team looked on fire and I could see nothing but
a big win coming, oh how wrong I was. Terrible defending by Byram and a
combination of Collins and Adrian meant they were back in the game before
half time which was ridiculous. This is where the fun of the day started to
decline.
I went to the toilets, as always the prematch beers never give my bladder an
easy ride! As you go to the toilets in the East Stand there is no proper
queuing system because people filter in from all angles. A couple of old
boys took offence to the younger lads pushing in and asked them to go to the
back of the line. I used to see this a bit at Upton Park and usually the
accused would go to the back reluctantly. In this case both of the people
asked swore and called the old men a word beginning with C and it wasn't
carrot. I went outside to the food kiosks and bought a chicken burger and a
coke as I hadn't had any lunch, setting me back £10. In some ways this is
nice to be able to step outside and use the outside facilities but in some
ways it is worrying because any one could get in without ticket as there are
no checks going back in.
I got back to the seat and the team just looked like another team in the
second half. No effort, terrible defending again and little attacking
threat. It was in the second half where the atmosphere started to turn to a
horrible vibe. Where I am sat I could see fights breaking out to the left of
me, to the right of me and where the away fans met the stewards. The
stewards do not do anything, they stand there and watch. It is their job to
make sure the supporters behave. The problem is they are all young kids used
to dealing with athletics and concerts they are not trained. They need to be
put amongst experienced and loyal stewards from Upton Park. They also have
no police presence backing them up. Why are the police not in the stadium??
I just do not understand this. Apparently they have to be called in if
something serious happens. Thankfully the club have now insisted that E20
have a police presence and this should help with the situation. The police
will deter people from fighting and deal with it quickly if they do.
Considering every home game now I have been asked if I have been searched
and said yes and got through every time, it will not be long before
something serious does happen. What worries me even more is that we have
only played Bournemouth and Watford, teams I considered us to be friendly
with. I dread to think what happens when we play Spurs or Chelsea. The
club have again made it very clear to E20 that this is not acceptable and
that the stewards need further training.
One thing that has to be said though is that the fans part in this cannot be
excused. Yes it was a poor result, yes some fans are clearly wound up about
the standing and sitting but you don't need to turn to violence. You cannot
excuse someone who comes to a game and fights with his fellow fans
regardless of any other factor. Yes I believe this is happening more because
of the terrible stewarding but nonetheless these people need bans
immediately. I will not be taking my kids to the new stadium (something I
had planned to do) until this is sorted out.
The performances on the pitch do not help the situation. Had we won that
game we probably wouldn't be talking about all the fights now that we are. I
think I would make three or four big changes for the WBA game. I think
Ogbonna must play. At the moment I would say instead of Reid but Collins
hasn't exactly been on form this season either so I am not overly fussed
which one goes but Ogbonna must start. I think we need to get Arbeola fit
ASAP as Byram was very exposed at right back and I think we need someone
experienced there to come in. I would also think about dropping Adrian for
Randolph. I think Adrian has been weak on a number of goals this season
already whereas Darren hasn't let us down although of course this is a bit
of a kneejerk reaction.
The stadium problems surprise me because the club had brought in Angus
Kinnear from Arsenal and a few other directors to oversee our move to the
London stadium, like they had with Arsenal. They set up supporter advisory
boards dedicated to this and then quickly disbanded them. It baffles me that
no family section has been arranged or agreed before and that fans were not
suggested seats depending on whether they wanted to sing or not. These are
things that I believe we could have controlled. Things that I cannot
understand not being organised beforehand when families were choosing their
tickets. The club have now agreed to relocate these families which is a
positive step but one that shouldn't have had to happen because it should
have been sorted before the season.
The stewards are controlled by the Olympic committee and unfortunately we do
not have much say over them. The club had a big meeting today and have
lobbied the E20 for many changes in security and all for the better. Things
should improve.
As for the stadium, I understand people missing Upton Park, I do! I have
struggled to look at pictures of it recently because I miss going to the
games there. I was very pro the move however and whilst the stadium issues
have dampened my enthusiasm I think it is important to accept that there
were always going to be teething problems. I also think that like anything
it takes a while to get used to something new. If you have lived in a house
for 26 years (like I have had a season ticket) moving somewhere new always
takes a long time to feel like home especially when the landlord is not
doing their job properly. The bottom line is we cannot turn back and once
the results start to pick up on the pitch it will feel better. It felt good
for the first 30 minutes against Watford.
I think we have to wait until the end of the season before we can fully
judge the stadium. I understand the board's decision to move to the stadium
and do not hold any negativity towards them because I know this move was
done with the club's best interest at heart or so they believed. I think
mistakes have been made but thankfully we look like addressing them now.
When the team's performances pick up and we are at the end of the season,
then is the time to reflect back accurately on the success of the move.
I will bring more news in my next column but I wanted to have my say on the
issue. If you wish to vote for myself https://t.co/hZ7oo7IzFU , the site or
the podcast (see the West Ham Way Twitter Account) in the upcoming FBAs any
vote will be greatly received.
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Stadium infrastructure obsolete, say Met Police
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 13th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
A spokesman for Met Police claims that Olympic Stadium operators LS185 were
warned in 2014 that there was insufficient radio coverage inside the ground.
And the result of that particular oversight is that Police - who have
finally been given the green light to operate inside the venue - will be
unable to communicate once in the stadium until late November/early December
when the radio system will be updated. "The stadium operators are
responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. This
includes disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of
criminality," Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry
told The Standard. "The Metropolitan Police Service will fulfil its legal
responsibilities in relation to dealing with matters of criminality. The MPS
is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would
normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground.
Police are to be allowed inside the stadium for the first time after WHUFC
demanded a presence - but they have no adequate means of communication.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the provision
of Airwave radio inside the stadium. "During this time, the MPS had spoken
to the stadium operators several times to highlight the consequences of not
installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive Airwave radio
coverage throughout the ground officers will not be routinely deployed
within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators have
only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system."
West Ham United demanded a Police presence during a meeting with the stadium
operators LS185 yersterday, following a series of unsavoury incidents
witnessed inside the stadium.
An incident involving both home and away fans in the Trevor Brooking Stand
on Saturday was allowed to carry on for several minutes before Police
stationed outside the stadium were finally able to gain access. LS185 have
come under attack several times in recent weeks from supporters who have
been angered by sub-standard stewarding, poor security measures and the lack
of wifi access inside the ground.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark Noble urges West Ham to stay positive after disappointing start
Last Updated: 13/09/16 3:40pm
SSN
West Ham captain Mark Noble has urged their supporters to stay positive
after a difficult start to the campaign. The Hammers have lost three of
their four Premier League games so far this season, and suffered a 4-2
defeat to Watford at London Stadium on Saturday. West Ham were 2-0 up in
that game after just 33 minutes but capitulated to fall to 17th in the
Premier League table. The game was also played before a backdrop of trouble
in the stands, where 10 supporters were ejected and nearly 100 complaints
were made over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. But Noble
feels now is the time for unity and said: "That is the best we have played
for a long while, in the first half. A couple of mistakes have cost us and
we couldn't recover. "If we can go in 2-0 up at half-time it is a different
game, but the mistakes have cost us in the end. "There is a long way to go
and we have to stay positive."
Noble is also confident things will improve when key players such as Dimitri
Payet and Manuel Lanzini are back at full fitness after injury. "We have
still got new players coming in learning the league and we have a lot of
players in their second season," he said. "We have got players coming back
from injury like Manu and Dimi. "We have got to take the positives and we
played fantastic in the first half, but we conceded silly goals."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No police presence inside London Stadium for West Ham's next match
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 13/09/16 3:27pm
SSN
West Ham have failed in their bid to have police inside the ground at their
next home game following the trouble that marred Saturday's 4-2 defeat to
Watford - because there is no satisfactory radio system installed at the
London Stadium. A statement from the club on Monday night confirmed 10
supporters were ejected from the stadium during the game, with nearly 100
complaints made over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. No
arrests were made, but the club were adamant that stadium owners E20
guarantee a police presence when the Hammers take on Accrington Stanley in
the EFL Cup on September 21. However, deputy assistant commissioner Peter
Terry said the lack of a reliable radio system across the ground - an issue
highlighted in 2014 - means the Metropolitan Police Service cannot provide
extra policing. Stadium operators LS185 expect that radio system to be in
place in time for West Ham's next category C match, which is likely to be
the derby against Arsenal in December, but Sky Sports News HQ understands
there is frustration from the club that they are not allowed to run the
security operation themselves. "The stadium operators are responsible for
the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. This includes
disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality," said
Terry. "The Metropolitan Police Service will fulfill its legal
responsibilities in relation to dealing with matters of criminality. "The
MPS is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it
would normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the provision
of Airwave radio inside the stadium. During this time, the MPS had spoken to
the stadium operators several times to highlight the consequences of not
installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive Airwave radio
coverage throughout the ground, officers will not be routinely deployed
within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators have
only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system."
E20 and LS185 have also issued a joint-statement defending their actions and
insisting that infighting among the West Ham fans is the main problem for
the stewards. The statement read: "The safety of the stadium is paramount
and all safety plans are agreed in advance by the police and if there were
any significant concerns the stadium would not be licensed. "Saturday's
match was a Category A, low risk game and the police were based at the Park
Headquarters throughout to monitor events at the stadium. They were deployed
in the stadium when required, however the main pressure on the stewarding
during the game was from infighting among the West Ham United fans. "A
decision to install Airwave was reached in March 2016. The procurement and
installation is the responsibility of the police we have fully co-operated
and will facilitate any access they require to carry this out."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham vow to ban fans who verbally-abused Karren Brady during Watford
trouble
23:08, 12 SEP 2016 UPDATED 23:08, 12 SEP 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The club will review CCTV images in a bid to identify the culprits after 13
supporters were banned following events at Saturday's game
The Mirror
West Ham have to vowed to ban fans who verbally abused vice-chairman Karren
Brady after calling for more police and better stewarding at the London
Stadium.
The stadium operators announced announced on Monday that the 13 supporters
who caused trouble at Saturday's match with Watford will be banned from all
future events at the former Olympic Stadium. And the club will review CCTV
images in a bid to identify the culprits. But West Ham are not responsible
for security at the ground and want to "guarantee" a police presence inside
the London Stadium during matches. The club also called for the operators
to increase stewarding "in terms of numbers, but also in terms of the level
training and experience they have dealing with Premier League football
matches".
Scuffles broke out between rival supporters and West Ham fans and stewards
on Saturday over demands to sit down during the game. West Ham are also
looking to create a family area. A meeting between the club and the
operators of the London Stadium will be held on Tuesday. A spokesman for the
operators (LS 185) said: "As part of our review process, we will be taking
steps to strengthen the segregation measures between home and away
supporters. "In-fighting amongst home supporters has also given us cause for
concern and we will continue to work closely with West Ham United to
identify and take action against the small number of supporters found to be
responsible for these incidents."
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West Ham demand police presence and segregation at London Stadium after
reading riot act to landlords
20:19, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 20:19, 13 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
Crowd trouble marred the Hammers' 4-2 home defeat by Watford at the
taxpayer-funded London Stadium on Saturday
The Mirror
West Ham have demanded a police presence and more robust segregation after
reading the riot act to their own landlords. The Hammers' move into the
taxpayer-funded London Stadium was rocked by crowd trouble at Saturday's 4-2
home defeat by Watford. And some fans are at loggerheads with the club – and
each other – over the right to stand throughout the game. Although West Ham
have announced reinforcements of flimsy segregation between opposing fans
and insisted on policing inside the stadium on the Queen Elizabeth II
Olympic Park, the FA are still investigating the disturbances. Ten people
were ejected and the club received 47 complaints from fans – seven about
fans standing and another 40 relating to "anti-social behaviour" - after
Slaven Bilic's side collapsed from a 2-0 lead.
And the Hammers, who have threatened lifetime bans for fans who resort to
violence, are so concerned about the undercurrent of hostility they are now
appealing for supporters to grass on each other to stamp out the
disturbances. The disorder is embarrassing for co-owners David Gold, David
Sullivan and vice-chairman Karren Brady, who pulled off the deal of the
century to move West Ham from Upton Park to their rebranded 'London' stadium
on the cheap. Apart from £2.5 million-a-year in rent, the Hammers were
required to pay just £15m of the £272m needed to adapt the iconic 2012
Olympic venue for football. They are not even obliged to cover the costs of
police, stewards supplied by independent company LS185, pitch maintenance or
even household bills in their adopted home.
But it beggars belief that a Premier League club with 57,000 crowds at home
games – and a recent history of crowd control problems after Manchester
United's team coach was pelted with missiles four months ago – should have
had no police inside the ground. Watford fans complained of bottles and
coins being thrown, and home fans charging at the away supporters'
enclosure, in a feral atmosphere with echoes of football's hooligan excess
from the 1980s. And after urgent talks with stadium owners E20, West Ham
trumpeted "essential improvements" which should have been there in the first
place.
A club statement said: "Whilst West Ham United do not hold the safety
certificate or control security at the stadium, the club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters. "The club have insisted that E20 guarantee a
police presence in the stadium.
"In addition, the club have also specified a number of essential, important
improvements to matchday operations, including the need for LS185 to bolster
the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers, but also in terms
of the level of training and experience of Premier League matches. "This
includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home and
visiting fans. We have been assured this will be in place ahead of the next
match. "The club has already taken action to improve elements within their
control, including relocation of young children and families from areas
where the fans are more vociferous and the issuing of season-long bans for
anti-social behaviour. "We would appeal to supporters to report any
incidents to the club, as all complaints are fully investigated in
conjunction with CCYV footage with a view to issuing further bans where
appropriate. "The more intelligence the club has, the more pro-active and
focused all efforts to clamp down on anti-social behaviour will be."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham may face wait for police presence inside London Stadium over lack
of "satisfactory radio system"
12:58, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 13:11, 13 SEP 2016
BY JAMES WHALING
Some Hammers were involved in skirmishes during the match against the
Hornets leading to the Irons requesting a police presence inside the ground
The Mirror
West Ham will be forced to wait for a police presence inside the London
Stadium after violent scenes in the stands of their Premier League clash
against Watford on Saturday. Some Hammers fans were involved in skirmishes
during the match against the Hornets which led to the Irons releasing a
statement confirming they would request officers in the ground. However, the
Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that the behaviour of supporters
is not yet at a 'criminal' level, and that the lack of 'satisfactory radio
systems' means a presence will not yet be forthcoming. Metropolitan Police
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry, Specialist Crime and Operations,
told the Evening Standard: "The stadium operators are responsible for the
safety and comfort of their customers and staff. "This includes disorderly
behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality. The Metropolitan
Police Service will fulfil its legal responsibilities in relation to dealing
with matters of criminality. "The MPS is not able to provide Special
Policing Services at this time as it would normally, as there is no
satisfactory radio system across the ground.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and
the MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the
provision of Airwave radio inside the stadium. "During this time, the MPS
had spoken to the stadium operators several times to highlight the
consequences of not installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive
Airwave radio coverage throughout the ground officers will not be routinely
deployed within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators
have only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system." West
Ham released a statement last night confirming a full investigation had been
undertaken following the crowd trouble which saw children look on in horror
at what they were witnessing. As well as asking for police presence, the
Hammers confirmed 10 individuals had been ejected from the stadium, but that
no arrests were made. Seven complaints were made in relation to standing,
with a further 40 reports of antisocial behaviour within the ground. Mirror
Football have contacted West Ham for comment.
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West Ham investigate £6.2m signing of Arthur Masuaku amid fears club
overpaid for left-back
11:54, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 11:58, 13 SEP 2016
BY MARTIN DOMIN
Club signed French defender from Greek champions Olympiacos
The Mirror
West Ham will attempt to determine whether they overpaid for £6.2million
summer signing Arthur Masuaku. The French left-back joined from Greek
champions Olympiacos and has featured in each of the Hammers' opening four
Premier League matches. But the club believe he cost them £1m too much and
want to find out if someone not named on the official documentation was paid
commission. The club confirmed to the Daily Mail that they have launched an
investigation.
Masuaku, 22, spent two seasons in Greece after moving from Valenciennes in
his homeland. And after making his debut in the 2-1 defeat by Chelsea last
month, he said: "The Premier League is very fast and for me it was tough
physically as I am not 100 per cent yet. I just want to keep going, work
hard and hopefully show my best form." West Ham's first-choice left-back
Aaron Cresswell is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham investigate signing of Arthur Masuaku from Olympiakos
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 13/09/16 11:27am
SSN
West Ham are investigating the deal that saw French left-back Arthur Masuaku
join them from Greek champions Olympiakos over the summer. The Hammers paid
£6.2m to land the 22-year-old but it is understood club officials are
concerned they overpaid for the player by almost £1m. West Ham are concerned
someone was paid who was not declared on the official transfer document,
with a representative dispatched to Athens last week to establish if that
was the case. Masuaku came through the youth system at Valenciennes in his
home country before joining Olympiakos in August 2014. He played 65 times
for the Greek side before completing the deal to join West Ham that has now
caused concern. Masuaku has played in all four Premier League games for
Slaven Bilic's side this season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fans want action over London Stadium segregation problems
• Club to hold crisis talks with operators after trouble at last match
• West Ham demand police presence at new ground
Owen Gibson
@owen_g
Monday 12 September 2016 20.25 BST Last modified on Tuesday 13 September
2016 08.13 BST
West Ham fans are calling for urgent action to resolve stewarding and
segregation issues that have marred their move to the London Stadium, as
tensions rose between the club and the stadium's owners over violent scenes
on Saturday.
West Ham will this week hold talks with the operators of their new £701m
home, with each understood to blame the other for the situation that led to
home fans clashing with one another and with away fans during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford.
The club have demanded a police presence at the ground, which would have to
be paid for by the operators under the terms of the lease. West Ham's
executive vice-chairman, Karren Brady, was booed when her image flashed up
on the big screen on Saturday and she was verbally abused by some fans.
"The way it's going, someone is going to end up seriously hurt," said Graeme
Howlett, editor of the Knees Up Mother Brown website. "It's dangerous. We've
got so many accounts of fans trading blows, people having to dive on their
kids to protect them.
"The two big problems are probably that the migration from Upton Park was
not handled as well as it could have been and the second is that there is no
family enclosure."
A West Ham spokesman said the London Stadium did have a family section, with
two blocks reserved in the Bobby Moore stand, and thus complied with Premier
League guidelines. "The club is doing everything possible within its
jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all
supporters," the club said. "The club is working hard to move like-minded
supporters into areas to enhance their match-day experience."
By offering cheap ticket deals for minors and allowing existing season
ticket holders to purchase two extra seats at the new ground, West Ham have
25,000 family ticket holders in the stadium that has a capacity of 57,000.
Cheap season ticket deals and the allure of the new stadium have also
tempted new fans to buy season tickets. Much of the tension has been sparked
because fans who were used to standing for much of the match at Upton Park
have been told to sit at the London Stadium.
West Ham are believed to be concerned that the standard of stewarding has
not been up to scratch and will be seeking answers from LS185, the company
used by the stadium operators, Vinci, to handle the task.
"You've got the two different factions being separated by a handful of
stewards," said Howlett. "The majority of the stewards are not trained or
not able to act. It's ludicrous. There are no police inside the stadium. On
Saturday it took 15 minutes for a response team to come in.
"I have plenty of sympathy with those who want to be allowed to stand. We've
got this ridiculous issue where the home fans are told to sit, yet the away
fans are allowed to stand."
The LLDC is expected to argue privately that Vinci, which also operates the
Stade de France, has longstanding experience of overseeing sporting events
and that hundreds of thousands of fans have attended other events at the
stadium with no problem.
West Ham will seek to start relocating fans so they can sit with more
like-minded supporters but the process will be far from straightforward. It
is unclear what went wrong during the consultation process that was supposed
to ensure that fans sat in a part of the stadium with a similar atmosphere
to that they were leaving behind at Upton Park.
Brady is also expected to push LS185 – which must pay for all stewarding and
security within the stadium under the terms of the controversial tenancy
deal signed with West Ham – to improve stewarding and segregation.
The KUMB site has collated anonymous submissions from former Upton Park
stewards who claim their expertise and experience was ignored by the new
stadium operators. Among their complaints is that stewards are allocated
randomly to different parts of the ground and thus unable to build up a
rapport over successive matches.
Fans have complained that many of the 700-strong army of stewards have
little experience of managing football crowds, having been trained to look
after other events, and of inadequate security measures.
West Ham and LS185 have been asked to draw up a report for Newham Council's
Safety Advisory Group, while the Football Association has also confirmed
that it is investigating scenes that saw 10 fans ejected on Saturday and
three handed to the police.
Ten other West Ham fans had already been banned for life following incidents
at earlier games in the Europa League and the Premier League opener against
Bournemouth.
Both LS185 and West Ham are combing through CCTV footage and clips posted on
social media to identify perpetrators.
"As part of our review process, we will be taking steps to strengthen the
segregation measures between home and away supporters," said an LS185
spokesman.
"In-fighting amongst home supporters has also given us cause for concern and
we will continue to work closely with West Ham United to identify and take
action against the small number of supporters found to be responsible for
these incidents.
"We remain determined to ensure that all supporters can enjoy the best
possible matchday experience in a safe and secure environment and fully
support West Ham's efforts to migrate supporters attending in family groups
to dedicated sections."
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West Ham United's 'Robust' Response To 'Watfordgate'
Submitted by nevillenixon on Tue, 13/09/2016 - 10:11
WestHamFans.org
The groundswell of opinion among fans and the massively negative press that
followed the 2-4 defeat to Watford at the London Stadium has, as expected,
invoked an immediate response from the club with the blame for events being
firmly placed on the stadium management and particularly on the security
company they use. The 'robust' response on the club's official website is as
follows:
"West Ham United undertook a full investigation into the crowd issues
immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today held a productive
meeting with stadium owners E20. Whilst West Ham United do not hold the
Safety Certificate (this is held by LS185) or control the security at the
stadium, the Club is doing everything possible within its jurisdiction to
help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all supporters. It is
important that we recognise the vast majority who have attended the first
five fixtures played at London Stadium have been outstanding with their
behaviour and support. They, like all at West Ham United, do not want their
reputation or the Club's to be tarnished by the minority. Today, the Club
have insisted that E20 guarantee a police presence in the Stadium. In
addition, the Club have also specified a number of essential important
improvements to match day operations moving forward, including the need for
LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers,
but also in terms of the level training and experience they have dealing
with Premier League football matches. E20 confirmed today that immediate
action is being taken on the issues raised. The Club will work tirelessly
with them to ensure London Stadium continues to be the inclusive and
family-friendly environment that all parties have worked so hard to achieve.
This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the Club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match. The Club has already taken action to
improve all match day elements within their control, including the
relocation of young children and families from areas where the fans are more
vociferous and the issuing of season long bans for supporters engaging in
antisocial behaviour.
The Club is working hard to move likeminded supporters into areas to enhance
their match day experience. This process commenced ahead of the Watford game
and has already proved successful in key areas. The Club will continue
prioritising this approach around the stadium.
In relation to Saturday's match against Watford: • 10 individuals were
ejected from the Stadium.• No arrests were made. • The Club received seven
complaints in relation to standing, although 40 reports were received in
relation to the antisocial behaviour in the stands.
The Club would appeal to supporters to report any incidents directly to the
Club, as all reported complaints and incidents are fully investigated, in
conjunction with a full review of CCTV footage from the day, with a view to
issuing further bans where appropriate. Supporters are requested to provide
as much information as possible, as the more intelligence the Club have the
more proactive and focused all efforts to clamp down on antisocial behaviour
will be. The Club will act on every piece of evidence all of which will be
collated and treated in the strictest of confidence. The Club now appeals to
all supporters to come together and support West Ham in the famous way we
have historically been so proud of."
At least the issues are being addressed, certain teething troubles were
expected following the move from the Boleyn Ground to the London Stadium,
but they have turned out being more root canal than a simple filling!
It does appear that the immediate issue that needs addressing is top of the
agenda, and that being crowd segregation. It is a blessing in disguise that
things 'kicked off' during the Watford match, and as much as their
'cheerleaders' would like to think, they were one of the 'softer' teams that
West Ham will face, even though the match was technically a London derby.
Had the visitors been from Tottenham or Chelsea the outcome could have been
horrific, and that is no over statement!
Negatives & Positives:
The obvious negative is that the publicity for the club has been atrocious,
images of fighting fans have been beamed all round the world, hardly the
sort of global branding envisaged by the West Ham hierarchy. Fans feel
'disconnected', not because of sight lines or atmosphere, more the fact that
the stewards treat them generally politely but incredibly inefficiently,
acting with no latitude, empathy is an essential element of crowd control!
The positives are that a major incident has thus far been avoided, and
henceforth the impending 'shoring up' between the away fans and the Sir
Trevor Brooking stand home fans will engender a feeling of increased
security and well being, especially among those who are accompanying
children. Because there has been such a brouhaha about the first few
matches, rival supporters have begun to think the london stadium is 'there
for the taking', the new controls being put in place should help snuff out
that particular cinder and hopefully people can enjoy watching a football
match instead of seeing an endless stream of hapless 'yellow jackets'
panicking as they try to diffuse situations they have little or no training
for.
The increased police presence is also a must, and one that will be welcomed
by all, even those who don't always see eye to eye with the authorities! It
is to be hoped that they can suggest the leaving time for the away
supporters in order to avoid clashes outside the stadium as well.
So: Build a wall to segregate the away fans, a sufficient metal barrier that
is high enough not to be vaulted and strong enough not to be knocked over.
Have a Police presence inside the Stadium, and insist on much better
training for the security staff. These actions will go a long way to making
a visit to the London Stadium a positive experience that can be recommended.
Of course we haven't touched on the issue of safe standing and family zones
yet, why on earth given the amount of season tickets held by under 16's, was
no provision made for a family zone? It beggars belief that the hard working
board of West Ham didn't perceive this issue before it had a chance to
develop. The safe standing problem will unfortunately run and run due to the
FA's vice like grip on any meaningful change to the rules, however common
sense can prevail if like minded souls are given the option to swap areas
that they are currently seated in and be positioned where they are not
obscuring the views of those who cannot or do not wish to stand, or those of
children. Of course by doing so the club would be surreptitiously condoning
standing, but technically they would just be 'assembling' like minded
supporters who like to 'sing and chant' more than others.
It is vital that West Ham United is seen as a club moving forward, and their
supporters not as a bunch of ingrates who cannot handle being 'gifted' one
of the best stadiums in the world, but as supporters who are embracing a
brave new world whist maintaining the core values that made West Ham many
opposition supporters' favourite second team. Come on you irons? - Ed
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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