Daily WHUFC News - 17th July 2014

FT - Ipswich 0-0 West Ham United
WHUFc.com
West Ham United continued their pre-season schedule with a 0-0 draw at
Ipswich Town on Wednesday
16.07.2014


IPSWICH TOWN v WEST HAM UNITD
PRE-SEASON MATCH
PORTMAN ROAD
WEDNESDAY 16 JULY 2014
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: DARREN DEADMAN

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Full time: Ipswich Town 0-0 West Ham United

FT: Not a second of added time is played as referee Darren Deadman ends
proceedings with the scoresheet still blank. The first half provided chances
for both sides, and the Hammers went as close as possible without scoring
when Cresswell struck the woodwork. In truth, the game lost a bit of its
sparkle after the break, but another useful run-out for the Hammers, against
a higher class of opposition from Saturday.
It's New Zealand next on the agenda for Big Sam's men and we'll be there to
bring you every kick from the Football United tour. See you then!
83: Vaz Te is in the thick of the action again and he has a wonderful chance
to notch from 10 yards as McCallum does well to get around the back and pull
across, but he can't get the right direction on his shot and it passes wide
of the right hand post.
82: Sub Lletget is fouled 30 yards out, but Vaz Te is not put off by the
distance from goal as he sends a searing, dipping effort just over the bar
and brushing the roof ot the net as it flies past a relieved Bialkowski's
fingertips.
78: Mauro Zarate's first run-out in a Hammers shirt has come to an end, as
he makes way for Paul McCallum up front.
77: The crowd had just been announced as 8,976 with 1,920 having made their
way up from east London for this one. Great support once again from the
claret and blue army!
75: Kevin Nolan provokes the ire of the home crowd by chasing down a
backpass to Bialkowski, sliding in and catching the keeper as he slams
clear. He's up quickly and it's all forgotten over a handshake. Might have
been a booking in a competitive game, that.
72: What a smart stop that is from Ipswich keeper Bialkowski. It looks for
all the world that Lletget is about to give the Hammers the lead when his
swings his left foot at a shot from 15 yards, but the home glovesman sticks
up an arm and diverts the ball away with a strong wrist. Still, but can we
build on that over the last 15 minutes or so?
69: As I say that, Cullen gives the ball away in midfield, allowing Murphy
to break on the Hammers backline. The Academy player does a great job of
atoning for his error by sprinting back into his own box to clear the
eventual cross behind with an expertly-timed diving header.
68: Halfway through the second period now and it's fair to say this half
hasn't matched the first for entertainment value. Little in the way of
goalmouth action since the interval, but the Hammers defence, which includes
a couple of youngsters has remained untroubled.
66: That breakthrough almost came straight away though as O'Brien dinks a
cross into the area and Lletget arches his back and stretches his neck
muscles to forces a header towards goal. It slides a foot wide of the mark
though as Bialkowski watches it wide.
65: A good spell of possession from the Hammers ends with O'Brien
overlapping around Vaz Te and sending in a cross which is blocked away for a
corner. Vaz Te's flag kick fizzes through the area, but Ipswich clear and we
still await the breakthrough.
62: The corner comes in from the right hand side and Luke Chambers finds
himself in a pocket of space, but he can't keep his header under the
crossbar and West Ham escape. The Ipswich man should have done better there
really.
61: Play swings to the other end and Chambers is required to head over his
own bar after a testing cross comes over from the right hand side.
60: Neat interplay on the edge of the box gives Seb Lletget a shooting
chance as he clips the ball over the defender's foot before shooting
goalwards. The effort lacks real purchase though and Ipswich stopper
Bialkowski gets right behind it.
55: That's a corner for Ipswich down the right hand side and although the
Hammers head clear, Veseli is there 25 yards out to control and volley
towards goal. The shot has some dip on it, but it comes too late and the
ball flies over the top.
54: Not a great deal to report so far in the second period as this set of 22
players get used to the pace of the game. The Hammers have a few youngsters
on show now. Leo Chambers and Seb Lletget featured in cup games for the
Hammers last term, but this is a relatively new experience for both Lewis
Page and Josh Cullen, who have never played a competitive game for the first
team.
51: It's the hosts who have the first sight of goal of the second period as
Murphy bursts towards the box and fires for goal, but Chambers is there to
make the block.
49: Ipswich have also made wholesale changes and their second half line-up
is Bialkowski, Parr, Chambers, Smith, Wyatt, Anderson. Hyam, Veseli, Tabb,
Murphy, Taylor
46: We're back underway here at Portman Road and it's a totally different
line-up for the Hammers. Now we have Adrian in goal, O'Brien, Chambers, Reid
and Page across the back. Cullen, Nolan and Poyet are across the middle,
with Vaz Te and Lletget wide to suport Zarate up top.

HT: The whistle goes for the break and it remains 0-0 at Portman Road. Both
sides have had chances though, with Cresswell striking the bar and Diame
having a shot deflected just wide for the Hammers. At the other end Marriott
dragged a shot just past the post with Nouble lurking at the far post.
Neither keeper has been beaten yet, so hopefully we can break the deadlock
soon! Join us in 15 minutes for the second period, with a host of changes
expected.
43: Ipswich think they have a chance to break as the ball is cleared out of
their box, but James Tomkins steps in to win possession back for the
visitors. He gives the ball to Noble, whose lofted through ball picks out
Jarvis. He looks to bend the ball into the far corner, but can't get the
whip on his shot and it rolls tamely into keeper Gerken's hands.
40: The tempo has dropped slightly as half-time approaches, but there's been
plenty to entertain so far. The only thing we're lacking right now is a
goal!
36: Neat passing from the Hammers on the edge of the area between Noble,
Kouyate and Jarvis. However it gets a bit crowded as Jarvis tries to work it
back into Cole and Ipswich manage to get the ball clear.
34: Left back to left back as Cresswell crosses teasingly from the left, and
with Carlton Cole bearing down on the delivery, Ipswich defender Mings dives
in to head behind. A top clearance from the home man. West Ham then work the
corner short and Noble curls wide from 20 yards.
32: Ipswich have looked slightly more threatening in the last five minutes
and they win a corner down he right, which Stewart delivers. However, Demel
is there to head both his initial corner, and follow up cross away. Strong
stuff in the air from the Ivorian.
29: West Ham respond with a great chance of their own as Noble gets into a
fantastic position down the right and cuts back low. Diame's shot looks
destined for the net, but a defender gets a telling touch on it to divert
just past the post.
26: The chance of the game so far and it falls to Ipswich. Kouyate comes
back towards his own goal to tackle Skuse, but in doing so he diverts the
ball into Marriott's path. He runs and and beats Collins, allowing him to
advance into the area and shoot for goal. He opts to go across Jaaskelainen,
but drags his effort slightly, missing both the far post and Nouble, who
dived in trying to convert. Still 0-0.
22: The opening chapter to this game has been an entertaining one, despite
the lack goals. Ipswich have got into promising positions on a couple of
occasions, but it is the Hammers who are creating the better opportunities,
with the left hand side providing a particularly fruitful source of
ammunition at present.
21: It's Ipswich's turn to attack and a low ball from the left finds Stewart
in a really good position, but his attempt at a sidefooted shot only cannons
into his teammate Nouble and bounces away.
20: Downing feeds the ball into Cole's feet and goes for the return to shoot
with his right foot from outside the box. His effort is not on target though
and Gerken can watch it wide.
17: More joy down that left hand side as Jarvis spreads the ball out to
Diame on the touchline. He slows his pace down before speeding up to get
past Hewitt, but his cross is a shade too deep and Downing can't get the
ball under his spell. Ipswich can't really cope with the Hammers down this
nearside flank at present.
14: Now even closer from Cresswell! Once more the Hammers threat comes down
the left hand side as Jarvis tricks his way inside and past his man. He then
passes to Cresswell, whose audacious chip beats home keeper Gerken but
crashes off the face of the crossbar. So close to a goal on his old home
pitch.
12: A whisker away from Downing at the other end now as this game has a real
ebb-and-flow about it early on. Diame looked to take his man on at the edge
of the area, and although he was held up, he managed to shift the ball onto
Downing, who created the yard he needed to shoot, but just a touch over the
bar.
10: Demel sells Noble just a touch short with his pass allowing Ipswich's
Bishop to nip in and take possession. Skuse takes up the running and drives
towards the edge of he box but doesn't catch his shot correctly and it
dribbles wide.
7: The chances are flowing for West Ham at the moment, and again it comes
down the left as Cresswell passes into Cole, who lays into Jarvis' path. The
No7 has to stretch to make connection with his shot and the ball flies just
over the top.
6: Kouyate has another go as a left-wing Hammers corner is only half cleared
by the home defence. This time a defender gets in the way to prevent the
Senegal midfielder's shot from troubling
4: Jarvis, who scored at Stevenage on Saturday, is picking up where he left
off and he stands an excellent cross up to the far post, where Kouyate is
charging in to meet. However, he can't get over the ball and the home side
escape.
2: The Hammers make inroads for the first time as Demel sweeps a pass out to
Jarvis on the far side. His first touch takes him inside his man and he
looks to feed Cole inside the area, but he is crowded out as he looks to
bring the ball under control.
1: There's an early opportunity for Ipswich right back Elliott Hewitt to
advance down his flank and cross, but Guy Demel is there at the far post to
bring under control and clear away from danger. First moment of danger dealt
with calmly.

7.49pm We're off and underway, the Hammers clad in their new home kit, which
is available from Club Stores tomorrow remember!

7.47pm Aaron Cresswell gets a warm round of applause as his name is read
out. The new Hammers left back spent three years here before making the move
to the Boleyn Ground this summer.

7.46pm And here they come! The Hammers led by Mark Noble, who is captaining
the first half XI. Bubbles rings out from the large Hammers contingent which
has gathered over on the far side to us.

7.45pm We're still awaiting the players' arrival here on the pitch Portman
Road. Hopefully they'll be out shortly!

7.37pm Kick-off is approaching here at Portman Road. Last time we were here
was for a pre-season fixture on 4 August 2012. The Hammers were beaten 3-1
through goals from Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, Luke Chambers and Jason Scotland,
with Matt Taylor netting the visitors' consolation. The game saw Aaron
Cresswell line up against his future employers, while Mark Noble started
against the club where he spent a period on loan as a youngster.
Will we fare better this evening? We're about to find out.

7.10pm We have team news for the Hammers, with Big Sam set to field
different sides in both 45 minutes.

Our first half XI is: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Tomkins, Cresswell,
Noble, Kouyate, Diame, Jarvis, C.Cole, Downing.
With Adrian, O'Brien, Reid, Chambers, Page, Lletget, Poyet, Nolan, Cullen,
Vaz Te, Zarate, McCallum, Sadlier, Harney and Spiegel on the bench too, the
boss will be giving a run-out to most of his squad.

Meanwhile, Ipswich include former Hammer Frank Nouble in their team, with
their first half XI comprising: Gerken, Hewitt, Berra, Clarke, Mings,
Stewart, Skuse, Bishop, Henshall, Marriott, Nouble

A very good evening to you all from Portman Road, Ipswich!
West Ham United contest their second pre-season fixture with tonight's
fixture at the Championship side.
The Hammers opened their preparations for 2014/15 with a 2-2 draw with
Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium on Saturday, where late goals from Matt
Jarvis and Stewart Downing saw them recover from two goals down to share the
spoils.
Manager Sam Allardyce will take a strong squad to Suffolk, with new boy
Mauro Zarate and fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Carlton Cole hoping to
make their first appearances after missing Saturday's game.
Ipswich also kicked-off their own pre-season fixture list on Saturday, when
they ran out 4-0 winners at League of Ireland First Division side Shelbourne
in
Dublin.

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Return to action inspires Reid
WHUFC.com
Homeward-bound Winston Reid enjoyed his return to action and is relishing a
return to New Zealand
15.07.2014

With West Ham United heading to his homeland on Thursday, Winston Reid has
spent the past few weeks fielding questions galore about New Zealand. While
the All Whites captain welcomes the media attention surrounding the Hammers'
long-distance Football United Tour, the defender was delighted to be
concentrating 100 per cent on football again at the weekend. The No2 was
part of the side which drew 2-2 at Stevenage in their opening pre-season
fixture, safely negotiating 45 minutes as West Ham began their preparations
for the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League campaign. Obviously it was nice to
be back into game mode, I guess," he agreed. "It was a bit hot out there,
but we got through it and I got 45 minutes under my belt, which was the most
important thing. We didn't pick any injuries, either, which was good."

Reid lined up alongside youngster Leo Chambers at the heart of the defence,
while new boys Aaron Cresswell and Diego Poyet filled the left-back and
defensive midfield berths respectively. The Kiwi said the pair, along with
Senegal midfielder and half-time substitute Cheikhou Kouyate, had all
settled in well since their recent arrivals. "It's always nice to get the
guys in early and Aaron, Cheikh and Diego have all come in and done well,"
he confirmed. "I'm sure they will be keen to push on forward from here and
now."

All three are expected to be involved again when West Ham travel to Ipswich
Town on Wednesday evening before joining the squad to fly out to New Zealand
the following evening. Reid was part of the Hammers side thrashed 5-1 at
Portman Road in the Championship in January 2012 and 3-1 at the same venue
in pre-season eight months later. With those games in mind, the centre-back
wants an improved showing this time around. "It's always about performances
and getting minutes under your belt in pre-season and avoiding injuries as
well. Hopefully come Thursday everyone will be all right and we'll jump on
the plane and go to New Zealand."

Reid might have left Auckland 14 years ago, but he still has family and
friends there, after spending time with film crews from New Zealand in
recent weeks, he is relishing the return home. "It's been nice to speak with
journalists from back home instead of West Ham TV, so it's been great!" he
joked. "Obviously I still play for the national team down there so I try to
follow what's going on down there as much as possible. "New Zealand is my
home, so I'll always have an interest in what is going on down there."

One event that will go on down in New Zealand next week is the visit of
teams from Reid's old school, Milford, and club, Takapuna, to a West Ham
training session. The player is looking forward to meeting youngsters who
hope to follow in his footsteps one day. "It's exciting. It's a long time
since I've been there so it'll be nice to go back. I played for the school
and Takapuna between the ages of five and ten, when I moved to Denmark, so
it's going to be nice to go back home and see them. "It's going to be the
middle of winter, but I can't complain! I'll be telling the guys to put a
beanie hat on, and hopefully we'll get some sun on a couple of the days!
"We're going a long way around the world, so it'll be nice for the fans down
there to come along and see how we train and everything. It'll be a good
opportunity for us and for them."

West Ham United tackle Wellington Phoenix at Eden Park in Auckland on
Wednesday 23 July (7.30pm), with prices starting from just 59 NZD (£30.20)
for Adults and 20 NZD (£10.25) for Children.
Three days later, the Hammers take on Sydney FC at Westpac Stadium in
Wellington (2pm) as part of a double-header that also includes Newcastle
United's clash with the Phoenix. Ticket prices start from 95 NZD (£48) for
Adults, 45 NZD (£22.80) for Children and 235 NZD (£119) for a Family (Two
Adults/Two Children).
New Zealand-based supporters unable to attend the fixtures at Eden Park and
Westpac Stadium will also be able to enjoy them live on SKY Arena
pay-per-view television, priced at $24.99 per game and $39.95 for the Tour.
Tickets for West Ham's two Football United Tour matches are available to buy
here.
Flight, ticket and accommodation packages for the Football United Tour are
also on sale now, with prices starting from as little as NZ $216 (£110) per
person. For full details, click here.
Football United Tour
Wellington Phoenix v West Ham United
Wednesday 23 July 2014, 7.30pm (local time)
Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand
Sydney FC v West Ham United
Saturday 26 July 2014, 2pm (local time)
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand

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Mediawatch - 16 July
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
16.07.2014

The Daily Mail report that the Hammers are edging closer to completing their
move for Ecuador striker Enner Valencia, who the paper says is valued at
£12m.

Meanwhile, the same newspaper carries the news of Ravel Morrison's
successful minor groin surgery, which will sideline the midfielder until the
first team return from New Zealand.

Dnipro's Ivan Strinic and Malaga's Vitorino Antunes are also being
considered, according to this Mail report, as left back options to add
competition for that place in the team.

Also in the news is a talkSPORT report that the Hammers and Crystal Palace
have been put on alert after Hull City boss Steve Bruce's admission that
talks with Tottenham defender Michael Dawson have stalled.

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Young striker joins West Ham on trial
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th July 2014
By: Staff Writer

West Ham have taken Polish striker Adrian Wojcik Kosela on trial. Polish
website Sport Review reports this afternoon that the 20-year-old has arrived
in London ahead of a week-long trial. It is believed that Kosela, who
qualifies for Poland through his mother despite being born in Spain will
also feature in a friendly for the development squad, whilst training with
the youngsters at Chadwell Heath where he will be assessed. The 6' tall
striker, who flew into London earelier today has already featured for
Sevilla's B and C teams plus Real Betis' reserves.

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Fulham want Carlton Cole
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th July 2014
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United striker Carlton Cole is wanted by Championship club Fulham.
The 30-year-old striker signed a new 18-month contract with West Ham back in
January but could be off to West London just six months later to join the
Cottagers, who were relegated from the Premier League at the end of last
season, according to KUMB sources. Fulham are determined to make an instant
return to the top flight and have already shelled out a Championship-record
£11million fee for former Leeds striker and West Ham target Ross McCormack.
And manager Felix Magath is keen to pair the 27-year-old Scottish
international with Cole, who made 30 appearances for West Ham last season
scoring six times in the process. The impending arrival of Enner Valencia -
combined with that of Mauro Zarate back in May - has seen Cole, already
considered a back-up to Andy Carroll slip further down the pecking order at
the Boleyn Ground.

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Valencia agrees personal terms
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th July 2014
By: Staff Writer

Enner Valencia is on the verge of becoming Sam Allardyce's fifth summer
signing after agreeing to move to West Ham. The 24-year-old Ecuador
international could be announced as a Hammer later today after he agreed
personal terms with United, 24 hours after completing a medical. However
reports that the transfer has already been agreed between West Ham and
Valencia's current club, CF Pachua, proved to be wide of the mark - as
shortly before midnight. the son of co-owner David Sullivan tweeted:
"Valencia deal done with player, but not club yet... Sky sports are wrong.
Will tweet if/when it is done!" Earlier on Tuesday evening Mexican sources
were reporting that the deal had already been completed, although the fee
remains undisclosed, with various reports suggesting an initial figure of
anywhere between £7million-£15million.

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Enner Valencia confirms West Ham move
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 17th July 2014
By: Staff Writer

Enner Valencia confirmed tonight that he has signed a five-year contract
with West Ham. The 24-year-old forward is set to be confirmed as West Ham's
latest signing imminently and speaking to Ecuador-based radio station
Deportiva last night, revealed that he was looking forward to playing at the
Boleyn Ground.
"I'm happy to join a very good team with very friendly people," he said.
"The deal was completed yesterday [Tuesday] and it's a five-year contract.
"There were some difficulties with parts of the contract but it was resolved
to the satisfaction of all parties. [Manchester United winger] Antonio
Valencia has also helped me, with him being in England."

West Ham are understood to have applied for a work permit. Due to Valencia's
regular appearances for Ecuador since 2012, it is thought unlikely that any
problems will arise. The fee remains undisclosed.

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West Ham sign Enner Valencia from Pachuca
Last Updated: 16/07/14 12:14pm
SSN

West Ham have signed Ecuador striker Enner Valencia from Mexican club
Pachuca for a fee in the region of £15million, according to Sky sources. The
25-year-old, who scored all three of Ecuador's World Cup goals in Brazil
this summer, has put pen to paper on a reported five-year contract after
agreeing personal terms and passing a medical. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce
beat off competition from several other Premier League clubs to sign
Valencia, whose fee could equal the club record £15m paid for Andy Carroll.
He will become West Ham's fifth signing of the summer, joining Argentine
striker Mauro Zarate, centre-back or midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, Ipswich
Town left-back Aaron Cresswell and Charlton midfielder Diego Poyet at the
club. Valencia also caught the attention ahead of the World Cup when he
scored a header for Ecuador in a 2-2 friendly draw with England in Miami,
and prior to that he had netted 18 goals in 23 outings for his club. West
Ham winger Stewart Downing has already tipped Valencia to be a success
alongside Zarate and Carroll at Upton Park. He said: "For large parts of
last season we played without a striker. We can't rely on Andy all season.
"He was the big signing last season, but Andy struggled with injuries so
hopefully the new signings will take the pressure off him a little bit. And
from what I've seen of Valencia against England, he looks a very good
player. "He can nick a goal and it is competition for places. It's what
we've needed as we didn't have that last season. It will help the manager
that he has options and he can bring other people in who can perform
straight away."

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West Ham, Stoke and Southampton eye Livorno striker Paulinho
By Simone Bargellini | Last Updated: 16/07/14 7:59pm
SSN

Livorno president Aldo Spinelli has confirmed that West Ham, Stoke and
Southampton are among the Premier League clubs eyeing a move for Brazilian
striker Paulinho. The 28-year-old, who found the net 15 times in 35 Serie A
appearances during the last campaign, is also said to have attracted
interest from Verona in the Italian top flight. Livorno are preparing for
life in Serie B after suffering relegation last season and Spinelli admitted
that Paulinho would be available for less than £8million as his future looks
almost certain to be elsewhere. Spinelli told Tuttomercatoweb: "Not only
Verona are looking at the player. West Ham, Stoke City and Southampton are
tracking him in the Premier League, while in Dubai two clubs are interested.
"As far as we are concerned, one club is as good as another. It's up to him
now, so he will decide the destination then we will reach an agreement on
the economic aspects. "Paulinho will return to Italy tomorrow, then he'll
decide on his future. In January, our assessment was 10 million euros, now
the fee has decreased."

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Winston Reid offered new West Ham deal
By Graeme Bailey | Twitter @graemebailey | Last Updated: 16/07/14 5:00pm
SSN

West Ham United have offered Winston Reid a new long-term contract, Sky
Sports understands. The 26-year-old has been outstanding for The Hammers
since joining from Danish club FC Midtjylland in 2010. He signed a new deal
last summer, but that only took him to 2015 and West Ham are now looking to
extend that further, as they are aware a number of their Premier League
rivals are taking a keen interest in Reid's situation. Sources have
confirmed to Sky Sports that Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and
Manchester United are all monitoring Reid, but West Ham are determined to
keep him. With that in mind, they tabled an offer to Reid and his
representatives earlier this month and hope to conclude a deal before the
start of the Premier League season in August.

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VALENCIA DEAL SUBJECT TO WORK PERMIT
By Sean Whetstone 16 Jul 2014 at 16:45
West ham till I Die

Despite most of the media saying Enner Valencia has already signed for as
much as £15m there is a few more hurdles for West Ham to jump before he can
be announced as a West Ham player.

Although the medical has been passed and personal terms have been agreed
with the player the two clubs have yet to complete the legal paperwork. With
the time difference with Mexico being six hours behind this has been a slow
process and may take a couple more days to finalise I hear. Although figures
of £12m to £15m have been quoted in the press I understand the initial fee
is likely to be much lower (around the £7m mark) but with add-ons, goals,
appearances and other targets it could take the final amount close to the
media quoted amount eventually. There is also rumour of a sell on clause
while others suggest the Mexican club will retain 30% ownership which I find
unlikely.

An initial £7m fee would take us very close to our £20m transfer kitty
budget after spending £7.5m on Kouyate, £1m on Zarate & Poyet in agent fees
and compensation and £3.75m on Cresswell. Any further signing would need to
be free transfers, loan or cheap deals so you can discount any mega money
transfer rumours.

Valencia will also need to get a work permit to work in this country which
should a formality considering his World cup appearances but with Sam
Allardyce flying to New Zealand tomorrow night with the rest of the team it
seems unlikely the work permit will be completed within the next two weeks.
Sam would usually be present to the Work permit panel to give it credibility
so hence the possible delay.

Despite the work permit issue I still expect West Ham to announce Valencia
as a new player but will say it is subject to him getting his work permit.

Valencia joined Emelec in 2008 from Caribe Junior's youth system, From 2008
to early 2010 he received no opportunities in the first team, but with the
arrival of the Argentinian coach Jorge Sampaoli, Valencia started to receive
playtime opportunities. Valencia's first professional career goal was on
10th March 2010, scoring the only goal to gain an important away win against
Ecuadorian giants LDU Quito.

Valencia initially began his career as a winger, but was converted to play
as a striker by Emelec coach Gustavo Quinteros. Reinaldo Rueda started
experimenting with Valencia as a striker after the untimely death of
Christian Benítez. After numerous rumors involving the interest of Pachuca
for Valencia, both Parties came to terms and agreed on a transfer in 2014.

On 18th January 2014, Valencia scored his first goal for Pachuca in a 2–1
victory against Tijuana. The following week he scored two goals to in
Pachuca's first away win league match against league champions Club León. He
finished the season as the top goal-scorer with 12 goals, scoring various
braces for Pachuca. Valencia scored his first hatitrick against UNAM in a
2–4 away win to advance in the Liga MX Apertura 2014 Playoffs. On 15 May,
Valencia scored a brace on the first leg of the Liga MX Finals, winning the
away match 3–2. In total Valencia netted 18 times in 23 games for Pachuca
last season and also scored all three of Ecuador's goals at the World Cup
finals in Brazil.

After making three appearances in the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification
campaign, he scored his first international goal in a 2–2 draw against
Honduras on 19 November 2013. He continued his good form in 2014, scoring in
three of Ecuador's four pre-tournament friendlies. On 5 March, he scored,
assisted a goal and won a penalty kick as La Tri came from 3–0 down to
defeat Australia 4–3.5 He then scored the team's only goal in a 3–1 loss
against Mexico, and gave them an early lead in a 2–2 draw with England in
Miami. In June 2014, Valencia was named in Ecuador's squad for the 2014 FIFA
World Cup. On 15 June, he made his FIFA World Cup debut in the team's
opening match against Switzerland at the Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha in
Brasília, opening the scoring with a header in a 2–1 defeat. In Ecuador's
second match, Valencia scored both goals to defeat Honduras 2–1 in Curitiba.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
RAVEL UNDER THE KNIFE
By Sean Whetstone 16 Jul 2014 at 13:50
West Ham Till I Die

Both West Ham United and his agent Nick Rubbery have moved quickly to dispel
rumours of a missing Ravel Morrison,

West Ham released a statement yesterday saying:

"West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has undergone successful
minor groin surgery.
The 21-year-old was diagnosed with the condition during pre-season testing
and had a minor procedure at a central London hospital on Tuesday afternoon.
The operation was completed without complications and, following a period of
rehabilitation, it is expected the England U21 midfielder will return to
training in a few weeks when the first-team squad return from New Zealand."

His agent Nick Rubbery also felt compelled to publish this photo of Ravel in
an hospital bed as if to prove the operation actually happened.

The complaint of groin problem by Ravel is nothing new but in the past it
had been claimed there was no proof and Ravel has refused to go under the
knife for an exploratory operation. Morrison missed the Boxing Day defeat
against Arsenal with a groin injury last year although internet rumours
suggested he had gone AWOL,

In February this year Big Sam was quoted as saying

"At the moment, Rav is still complaining about the problem he had before
Christmas, to say he has these rumbling groin problems,At the end of the day
he is going to have to decide if he goes for the hernia operation or not and
the answer keeps being no – he doesn't need it. I haven't heard any rumours
any other way in terms of what is happening with Rav, but he certainly needs
to get back and train with the squad.He has to realise now everybody is fit
there is severe competition here, especially with the new players as well."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Town 0-0 West Ham
Wednesday, 16th Jul 2014 21:40
TWTD.co.uk

Town and West Ham played out an entertaining 0-0 draw in Portman Road's only
friendly of the summer. Jack Marriott and Cameron Stewart went closest to
breaking the deadlock for the Blues in the first half, while former Blue
Aaron Cresswell hit the bar on his return to his old club.

Dean Gerken started in goal for the Blues with Elliott Hewitt at right-back
and Tyrone Mings on the left. Second-year scholar Matt Clarke, 17, was at
the heart of the defence alongside Christophe Berra.

New signings Stewart and Alex Henshall took the right and left wide roles
respectively with Cole Skuse and first-year pro Teddy Bishop at the centre.
Up front, Frank Nouble, facing his old club, partnered Marriott up front.

Cresswell made a quick return to Portman Road having joined the Hammers from
the Blues earlier in the month, while former Town loanee Mark Noble also
started for the visitors.

The Hammers created the game's first opening in the fifth minute, left
winger Matt Jarvis was found in acres of space and sent in a cross which
Cheikhou Kouyate nodded over at the far post.

West Ham continued to threaten and in the seventh minute Cresswell's long
ball found Carlton Cole, who teed-up Jarvis on the edge of the box but the
midfielder, who played for Mick McCarthy at Wolves, blazed over.

Town's first chance came in the 10th minute, Marriott picking up a loose
ball midway inside the Hammers half but scuffing his 20-yard effort wide.

But the visitors were still having the best of it and in the 12th minute
Stewart Downing hit a left-foot shot from 25 yards just over Gerken's
crossbar.

Two minutes later, returning former Blue Cresswell came close to a goal when
a cross from the edge of the area took a deflection, left Gerken flat-footed
but struck the top of the bar.

The Blues broke immediately, Nouble sending Henshall away down the left. The
summer signing from Manchester City crossed towards Marriott, but the ball
was nodded away ahead of the frontman.

Town should have gone in front in the 20th minute when Mings cut the ball
back from the left to an unmarked Stewart, who hit his shot straight at
Nouble.

Stewart might have done better two minutes later when found by Marriott as
he broke into the area but his first touch was too heavy.

Improving Town were inches from going in front in the 26th minute when
Marriott burst past James Collins and into the area on the right. The
19-year-old hit a low cross-shot just beyond the post and ahead of the
diving Nouble.

Three minutes later, only a last-ditch Hewitt challenge diverted Mo Diame's
shot after Noble had found him with a cross from the left.

West Ham were by now again looking the more threatening side and on 34 Mings
did well to get in ahead of Cole after Cresswell had sent in a teasing ball
from the left, then following the resultant corner Noble curled an effort
narrowly wide.

Two minutes before the break Jarvis was again found in space on the West Ham
left but scraped a weak shot straight at Gerken. Just before the whistle,
Diame hit a 20-yard strike which deflected wide.

The only surprise at half-time was that neither side had managed to break
the deadlock given the number of chances at both ends.

Marriott, a threat throughout, will feel he should have done better with his
chance as will Stewart.

Unsurprisingly, Premier League West Ham had most of the better chances but
without Gerken having been forced into a serious save.

As at Shelbourne on Saturday, Mick McCarthy fielded an entirely different XI
in the second half with new signing Bartosz Bialkowski in goal, Jonny Parr
at right-back, Ben Wyatt on the left and Tommy Smith and Luke Chambers at
the centre of the defence.

In central midfield Freddie Veseli partnered Luke Hyam with Jay Tabb on the
left and Paul Anderson on the right. Paul Taylor and Daryl Murphy were up
front. West Ham also switched their entire XI.

Veseli, who spent last week on trial at FC Luzern, struck the second half's
first serious effort but his edge-of-the-area strike looped over Adrian's
cross-bar.

Town had started the second period on top but just before the hour mark Seb
Lletget struck a shot from the edge of the Blues box, Bialkowski saving
comfortably to his left.

An unmarked Chambers headed Anderson's 62nd minute corner over the bar, the
centre-half clearly feeling he ought to have done better. A minute later,
Parr crossed from the right and Murphy flicked a header to Adrian.

For the Hammers, Lletget flicked a 67th minute header wide from Joey
O'Brien's right-wing cross.

Two minutes later, Murphy picked up a loose ball midway inside the West Ham
half before playing it wide to Taylor. The former Peterborough man chipped a
cross towards Veseli at the far post but Josh Cullen got in ahead of him to
nod behind.

Bialkowski did well to keep the scores level in the 72nd minute, making a
superb reaction save from Lletget after the visitors had worked an opening
inside the box. Moments later, the Polish keeper was caught somewhat late by
Kevin Nolan.

As the game moved into its final 10 minutes Ricardo Vaz Te grazed the top of
the net with a freekick from distance, then moments later, the former Bolton
man somehow mis-hit the ball wide from eight yards under pressure from
Wyatt, having been found by sub Paul McCallum's cut-back from the left.

Despite the lack of goals, it had been an entertaining game with the draw
probably the right result. Both sides had chances in either half with
Marriott and Stewart having the Blues' best before the break.

In the second half, Town had more of the ball and created most of the early
chances but new signing Bialkowski was the busier of the two keepers and
will have impressed his new fans with his display.

Town first half: Gerken, Hewitt, Berra, Clarke, Mings, Stewart, Skuse,
Bishop, Henshall, Marriott, Nouble.

Town Second half: Bialkowski, Parr, Chambers, Smith, Wyatt, Anderson, Hyam,
Veseli, Tabb, Murphy, Taylor. Subs: McQueen, Lawrence, Crowe.

West Ham first half: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Tomkins, Cresswell,
Kouyate, Noble, Diame, Jarvis, Cole, Downing.

West Ham second half: Adrian, O'Brien, Reid, Chambers, Page, Cullen, Poyet,
Vaz Te, Nolan, Lleget, Zarete (McCallum 78). Referee: Darren Deadman. Att:
8,976 (West Ham 1,920).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rav…his agent…and that hospital picture
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Ravel Morrison's footballing life amuses, infuriates and entertains in
almost equal parts! But it's the activities of his agent Nick Rubery which
have attracted interest over the past 24 hours! For on Tuesday evening Mr
Rubery decided to post a picture of his client on Twitter which showed the
midfielder in a hospital bed after a minor surgical operation on his groin.
The question is: WHY?

The West Ham official website had already revealed the news and in a normal
world that should surely be enough. But this of course is Ravel Morrison and
the history of famous 'groin injury' – sustained ahead of the Christmas
programme after he'd been dropped – has never been forgotten. There were
conspiracy theories until now that there was no groin injury but instead
that it was all about the player's differences with the manager.

It became so much the received wisdom that Rav's reputation began to fall
even among some of his most ardent believers Sam Allardyce had a very firm
view on the situation declaring at one point: "Listening to our medical
staff, there is no problem that he can carry on – not at all "He says he
feels it occasionally. Instead of gritting your teeth and getting on with
it… he's not the type. "Lots and lots of players throughout the country will
be playing with a similar type of injury that the medical team say 'you can
carry on, it's not a problem'.

The player was shipped out to QPR on loan where he played games and we
started to arrive at the point where many – perhaps most – believed we
would never see the fella in a West Ham shirt again. But he's back and with
the injury dealt with, maybe Rav's agent had a point in making it clear
there has indeed been a problem, But just why was surgery left so long and
why should the club choose to have it dealt with immediately ahead of the
trip to New Zealand?

Easily answered. Rav is a notoriously bad traveller. Those who know him well
admit that he often feels uncomfortable in foreign parts and as a result
this seemed the ideal time to have the injury sorted. The life and times of
Ravel Morrison has been given too much attention and has become a
distraction.
I believe this is s the biggest season of his career. With the injury issue
dealt with and the club embracing him as a bg part of things, let's believe
he's going to show himself to be the re real deal. There have been far too
many questions hanging over what should be a wonderful career …come on Rav
start giving us the right answers.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons give Fulham frosty Cole response
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

West Ham United have confirmed Fulham are interested in striker Carlton Cole
but have no intention of doing a deal on the terms being offered. News broke
earlier today that manager Felix Magath is keen to pair new signing Ross
McCormack with the Hammers loyalist. The news first appeared on www.kumb.com
but when ClaretandHugh contacted Upton Park sources Fulham were given a
frosty reception to the proposed deal. We were told that there was no chance
of a deal being done on the terms being offered by the Cottagers. Our source
said: " They want Carlton for nothing and he is very much part of our
plans."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Albion track Hammers keeper
5:00am Thursday 17th July 2014 in Albion By Andy Naylor
The Argus: Stephen Henderson

Albion are interested in West Ham's Stephen Henderson as they continue their
hunt for a new No. 1. The former Republic of Ireland under-21 international
is on the Seagulls' radar in their quest to replace the departed Tomasz
Kuszczak. Henderson still has a year left on a lucrative contract at West
Ham United but may be prepared to accept a pay cut in search of regular
first team football. Albion could alternatively look to land the 26-year-old
Dubliner on a long-term loan. Henderson has already had seven loan spells
during his career, including stints with Ipswich and Albion's South Coast
rivals Bournemouth last season.
He was due to be with the Cherries for three months but had to return to
Upton Park after dislocating his shoulder in only his second appearance.
Henderson, nephew of former Albion No. 1 Wayne Henderson, began his career
at Aston Villa. The 6ft 2ins shot-stopper also had permanent spells with
Bristol City and Portsmouth before signing two years ago for West Ham, where
he has been limited to two League Cup outings. Albion's search for a
replacement for Kuszczak has been wide-ranging. They are keen to take
Stoke's Jack Butland on loan and were interested in former Sunderland keeper
Keiren Westwood before he signed for Sheffield Wednesday. The Seagulls' trip
to Bournemouth has been brought forward from Saturday November 1 to Friday
October 31 (7.45pm) for live coverage on Sky Sports.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia: He's ours, but not quite!
Posted on July 17, 2014 by ClaretNBlues
Claret & Hugh

With the signing of Enner Valencia being on everyone's expectation list (if
such thing ever existed) for the past 10-14 days, we at C&B have every
reason to believe that he will indeed sign but don't expect it to be
announced just yet. If the signing is in fact announced be prepared for it
to be followed by a massive 'IF'.

It is our understanding that the player, himself has agreed a 5 year
contract with the West Ham hierarchy and we also have been led to believe
that his previous club Pachuca have accepted the offer submitted.

Despite the fact that the player and his previous club both tweeted that
they believe a deal has been completed, I think it would be very fair to say
that there's still a few t's that need to be crossed and a couple of i's
that need dotting.

Right now, it would seem that the only obstacles standing in our way are a
few minor loose ends regarding the contract and a possible delay with the
issuing of the necessary work permit.

Another matter worth mentioning is that Enner's previous club have rubbished
any notion that we have paid anything near the £12m reported and have in
fact paid nearer £6.5m with an add on of £2m depending on appearances and
performance. They have also indicated that they have retained a 10% stake in
the player to guarantee income from any further sale.

To cut a long story short, we believe that Mr Valencia is indeed a West Ham
United player bar a few loose ends that should and will be tied up in due
course.

Just don't expect a solid confirmation from the club anytime soon!

Matt

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Enner Valencia reveals namesake Antonio convinced him to join Premier League
in £12million move to West Ham
Enner Valencia: 'Antonio Valencia has helped a lot in my decision'
Valencia makes £12million move to West Ham from Mexican side Pachuca
The 24-year-old adds he is 'happy to join a very good team'
By KIERAN GILL
PUBLISHED: 01:05, 17 July 2014 | UPDATED: 01:23, 17 July 2014
Daily Mail

Enner Valencia has revealed his namesake Antonio convinced him to make a
£12million move to West Ham in the Premier League. The Ecuador striker
scored three times at the World Cup and signed a five-year deal at Upton
Park. And he admitted the advice from his international team-mate and
Manchester United winger was crucial in the decision.

ENNER VALENCIA LEAGUE FACT FILE
BORN: November 4 1989 (age 24)
2010-2013: Emelec (124 apps, 27 gls)
2014-2014: Pachuca (23, 18)
2014-NOW: West Ham (0, 0)
2012-NOW: Ecuador (13, 7)

'I'm happy to join a very good team,' Valencia told a Mexican radio station.
'There were a few issues with some parts of the contract but all parties
involved have now reached an agreement. 'Antonio Valencia has helped a lot
in my decision. It is a good team and the people are very friendly.'
Valencia moves to the Premier League club from Mexican side Pachuca.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com



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