Daily WHUFC News - 8th August 2015

Nolan - Youngsters can hold their heads high
WHUFC.com

Kevin Nolan believes West Ham United's young team can hold their heads high despite exiting the UEFA Europa League to Astra Giurgiu on Thursday night. A 2-1 defeat on the night meant the Romanian side progressed to the Play-Off round by a 4-3 aggregate scoreline. West Ham led 2-0 at one stage at home, and were again in front 3-2 on aggregate when they scored early on at Astra, but they were ultimately outgunned, leading to that empty feeling of an early exit. The visitors' skipper said: "We were all disappointed and there are a lot of disappointed young boys in there who ran their hearts out, but they showed the quality they have. "There were positives to be taken, but the result is disappointing."

West Ham were without several first team regulars as they kept an eye on Sunday's Barclays Premier League opener at Arsenal, and although the result did not go their way, Nolan said the team which did take to the field showed they had the quality to do the job. He explained: "The Gaffer has planned this how he wanted to and the priority is the Premier League - we know we need to be in it going into that fantastic stadium next year, but he still wanted this too. "The passion he showed for the competition [was clear] and this was a chance for all the boys to put them in his head for Sunday. "We're all majorly disappointed, but a few of these boys will now be looking forward to hopefully getting a bit of time in the Premier League."

Manuel Lanzini gave West Ham hope with his third minute goal and Nolan admitted he felt that could be the springboard to victory. He added: "We thought we had a chance when we went 1-0 up, but then maybe we started not attacking enough and that sort of brought the pressure on ourselves. "In the second half we showed we wanted it. It was only late on that they had a few chances, but overall these lads can be proud of themselves. "We've just fallen short and that goes down to the first leg as well. We were 2-0 up, if we see the game out we'd have won the leg quite comfortably."

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Poyet - Euro exit hurts
WHUFC.com

West Ham United's exit from the UEFA Europa League at Astra Girugiu on Thursday hurt in more ways than one for Diego Poyet. The Hammers midfielder was frustrated at losing a lead for the second time in the tie, and even more so at missing out on future opportunities to impress in this competition. After drawing the first leg 2-2 at the Boleyn Ground, the Hammers had their work cut out in Romania, but after going 1-0 up early on through Manuel Lanzini, Poyet felt at that point his team could go on to win. "It's a massive disappointment," he admitted. "Obviously we're out and it's difficult. We were 1-0 up and I thought we were comfortable, but then they scored that long range shot and it all changed. "In the second half we just couldn't get that equaliser and it's a shame to go out in this manner after we went 2-0 up in the first leg. "We knew we had to score, but we said [before the game] let's not rush anything. We were lucky enough that we scored early on, but as I said their goal changed everything. "Goals change games and we started off really well and gave it a go but at the end of the day we feel that it's not good enough to be knocked out this early. "We came here to get a result and get through, so apologies to the travelling fans and those who won't be able to travel around Europe for a few more games. Trust me we're as disappointed as them. "What you want as players is to play games, so for the likes of myself it's another disappointment because this competition could have been an opportunity to play and show what I'm capable of. "It's up to the manager now that we're out, and all I can do is play well [when he calls on me] and do my best in training to get that chance."

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U18s set for Fulham opener
WHUFC.com

Academy midfielder Joe Powell believes the experience of playing in front of a boisterous full house at Canvey Island will stand the Hammers' youngsters in good stead as they kick off their Barclays U18 Premier League campaign at Fulham on Saturday. Though the visitors fell to a 2-0 defeat on the night, first-year scholar Powell says he and his colleagues will be better for having played against senior pros, understandably a rarity for West Ham's Academy boys. First up is a trip to the Cottagers' Motspur Park training ground for an 11am kick-off on Saturday for what Powell expects to be a suitably tough start. "Fulham have always had a good academy, it will be a tough game for us but hopefully we can go there and get the three points," Powell said. "Everyone's had the experience now of what it's like to play against grown men and the physicality of the game, so hopefully we can adapt to the game that much easier as we grow up.
"To play against men, physically, is a battle, I think technically I coped with it well, getting on the ball and spraying it about. It was a good game."

Academy Manager Terry Westley agreed, citing Powell as one of the Hammers' brightest performers on Wednesday evening. "I personally thought Powell [was the pick of the bunch], he picked up a lot of the ball and made a lot of passes," Westley confirmed. "Was I critical, yes, because he's had it too deep, and he wasn't threatening enough, but he showed me glimpses for a first-year scholar at 16 that he can play. He can make things happen for us."

Powell himself is pleased with how pre-season has panned out, but knows there is plenty more hard work to be done in the weeks and months ahead, if he is to replicate the likes of Reece Oxford in rising through the ranks. "It's been a great pre-season for myself, personally, and obviously for all the age groups. "I've seen Reece Oxford is doing well, playing with the first team quite regularly and I wish him all the best. Hopefully he keeps going on with positive vibes and progresses. "I spoke to Terry and he said he can see improvements in my game, technically, he said, I've always been good but there's always work to be done. Hopefully I can see myself in that squad soon."

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Andy Carroll: West Ham striker close to comeback
BBC.co.uk

West Ham striker Andy Carroll could return in time to face former clubs Liverpool or Newcastle, according to manager Slaven Bilic. The 26-year-old has been out since February following knee surgery but returned to training with the under-21 squad last week. He could now face either Liverpool on 29 August or Newcastle on 14 September. "Andy Carroll is doing really well. He will be joining the squad in terms of training very soon," said Bilic. "He has been working for a few weeks but last week he was doing individual stuff without any problems so now the injury is gone. "We just have to bring him in slowly, but as soon as possible to gain fitness. "The target the medical department told me is Liverpool or Newcastle, which is the fourth or fifth game of the season."

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West Ham mid-table in 'net spend' chart
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are currently mid-table in a list of their Premier League peers' net spending so far this summer.

The Hammers may have outspent the likes of established Premier League clubs such as Aston Villa and Everton so far this summer, however they are lagging some distance behind the likes of Newcastle United and Crystal Palace.

When considering the clubs who finished 10th or lower in the Premier League last season - plus the three promoted clubs Bournemouth, Norwich and Watford - West Ham appear sixth in a 'total net spend' table.

According to all available statistics, the Hammers have made a net spend of £17.5million so far this summer following the acquisition of Angelo Ogbonna, Dimitri Payet, Pedro Obiang (£23m in total) and the sale of Stewart Downing (£5.5m).

And whilst that (currently) beats the spending of five clubs, a further five - including two of the three promoted sides - have invested considerably more in their playing squads so far this summer.

The following table was compiled by KUMB member OllyWHU6.


Premier League net spends, summer 2015/16

1. Newcastle

In: Mbembe £8.5m; Wijnaldum £14.5m; Mitrovic £13m; Toney £0.3m.
Out: No fees received
Net Spend: £36.3m

2. Watford

In: Capoue £6m; Behrami £3m; Holebas £2m; Vydra £6m; Berghuis £4.5m; Prodl £0; Arlauskis £0; Britos £4m; Jurado £4m; Nyom £4m.
Outs: Bond £0.25m; McGugan £0.5m.
Net Spend: £33m

3. Crystal Palace

In: Cabaye £13m; Bamford - loan; Wickham £9m; McCarthy £3.5m.
Out: No fees received.
Net Spend: £25.5m


Crystal Palace spent £13m on bringing Yohan Cabaye back to the Premier League


4. Leicester

In: Huth £3m; Okazaki £7.5m; Fuchs - free; Benalouane £6m; Kante £6m.
Out: Wood £2m.
Net Spend: £20.5m

5. Bournemouth

In: Mings £8m; Gradel £7.5m; Tomlin £3m; Distin £0; Boruc £0; Federici £0; Atsu - loan; Costa - loan; King - tribunal.
Out: No fees received.
Net Spend: £18.5m + tribunal fee.

6. West Ham Utd

In: Ogbonna £8m; Payet £10.5m; Obiang £4.5m; Randolph - free; Jenkinson - loan; Lanzini - loan.
Outs: Downing £5.5m.
Net Spend: £17.5m

7. Norwich City

In: Dorrans £3m; Mulumbu £0; Wisom - loan; Brady £7m; Kean - loan.
Out: No fees received.
Net Spend: £10m

8. West Brom

In: McLean £1.5m; Lambert £3m; Chester £8m.
Out: Dorrans £2.5m.
Net Spend: £10m

9. Sunderland

In: Lens £8.5m; Kaboul £3m; Matthews £2m; Coates £2m; M-Vila - loan.
Out: Wickham £9m.
Net Spend: £6.5m

10. Everton

In: Deulofeu £4.25m; Cleverly - free; Henen £0.2m.
Out: Long £0.5m.
Net Spend: £4m

11. Aston Villa

In: Sinclair £2.5m; Gestede £6m; Veretout £7m; Richards - free; Amavi £7m; Gueye £9m; Bunn - free; Ayew £10m; Crespo £0.5m.
Out: Benteke £32.5m; Delph £8m; Weimann £2.75m.
Net Spend: £1.25m.

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Two more targets fall by the wayside
KUMb.com
Filed: Friday, 7th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham have lost out on two transfer targets with whom they have been heavily linked in recent weeks.

Kevin Mirallas, who was thought to be keen on a move to London has shunned the chance to join either West Ham or Tottenham - who were also linked with the Belgian international - by signing a new deal with the Toffees.

"I'm very happy to sign," he told the club's website. "I've signed at Everton to win a trophy. I'm at a good team and I can continue my performances here.

"Now I am very happy because I can concentrate on my team and our future, starting with the Premier League tomorrow."

Meanwhile Kara Mbodj, who was close to sealing a move to east London back in January and was again linked with the Hammers this summer, has completed a switch to Anderlecht.

The 25-year-old Genk defensive midfielder was also linked with Premier League rivals Leicester City, although Les Mauves et Blancs' €4.5million offer proved good enough to secure the Senegalese international's signature.

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Nolan: I'd love to stay
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United captain Kevin Nolan has said that he'd love to remain at the club - but accepts that a move might be his best option of playing regular, first team football. Nolan, speaking after last night's Europa League exit at the hands of Romanian side Astra Giurgiu, revealed that he had spoken with Slaven Bilic about his future - without receiving any assurances. And that means the former Bolton and Newcastle midfielder could be set for pastures new ahead of the transfer window deadline later this month. "The gaffer has been great with me this summer," he said, following last night's game. "I will probably sit down with him between now and the end of the window and have a chat. "I'm 33, I love the club and I have got a lot of years left in me. I would like to stay, I am not that type of player - but that is a long way away." Despite expressing his desire to continue to work with Bilic, Nolan was critical of the team selection that lad to West Ham's Europa League exit. "We started very brightly but got stuck in a bit of rut," he said. "Where we lost it over the two legs was at home. We are disappointed as a squad and team because we wanted to go through. "The gaffer has shown in his selection that the main priority is the Premier League and to make sure we go to the Olympic Stadium in the Premier League. "Who knows, it might be a blessing in disguise - but I'm not saying it's what we wanted."

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Should West Ham adopt a more Saintly approach?
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th August 2015
By: Het-Field

The idea that European Competition is something of a hindrance, and should be avoided at all costs. is probably what annoys me the most. It is an attitude that will allow the 'top six' to dominate English football, and the European places for years to come. Southampton have shown the greatest ambition and taken some extraordinary risks, yet have managed to secure themselves as a Premier League team. They've made whopping profits on a number of players (Lallana, Lambert, Clyne, Shaw, Lovern, Chambers), accepted a large pay-out for the loss of former manager Mauricio Pochettino's management team, and replaced him with the highly capable and ambitious Koeman - whilst also bringing in some top players like Pelle, Long, Clasie, Juanmi, and Tadic.
I even notice that unlike West Ham, they now have Dutch international keeper Stelekenburg on loan from Fulham as back-up, while they effectively have first refusal on Steve Caulker. They have also managed to purchase their equivalent of Carl Jenkinson in Ryan Bertrand, while it seems that we are paying Arsenal from the privilege of raising their player (who now has a long term deal with them). The only disappointment from this season's window for Southampton has been their failure to secure Toby Alderweireld. Yes, the likes of Dani Osvaldo have been a mistake, but in the three seasons that Southampton have been in the Premier League, they have seemed almost incapable of falling into a relegation dogfight, have taken out some big teams, and have made St Mary's a tough place to travel.

It's hard not to look at Southampton - whose experience is not entirely different to ours - and feel that we are just not utilising the same mechanisms that they have employed to make themselves as competitive as they can be.

1. Both teams were promoted in 2011-2012.

2. Both teams have sustained a three year Premier League existence (which is usually a barometer).

3. Both teams currently have one of the new wave of manager with good experience, but not old style.

But that is where it ends.

1.Southampton have constantly attempted to upgrade their team, and have often sold some real talents to do so (although I'm not sure by choice), but their scouting has been excellent.

2.The likes of Clyne, Chambers (although awaiting his debut with Arsenal), Shaw, Lambert, Lallana, and Rodriguez have all become England internationals while at Southampton, while it only seems a matter of time before Ward-Prowse gets his chance. Equally, Pelle became an Italy international due to his performances at Southampton, as did Fonte with Portugal.

3.Southampton have willingly invested £10million+ on multiple players, each season since promotion, and said players have generally delivered.

4.Southampton have developed a competitive squad, with a number of good players not guaranteed starting places.

5.Southampton take cup competitions seriously.

West Ham United, on the other hand:

1.Have attempted to rely on some of the same players year in, year out since promotion. In fact up until around this time last season, the team which started the play-off final, could still have taken its place on their field at why.

2.We pine for the likes of Tomkins and Noble (our best possibilities) to get international recognition, but it just seems highly unlikely to happen, particularly in the case of the latter who has been playing first team football here for over a decade.

3.Our commercial value signings have not worked out. Jarvis' value has plummeted, Carroll has been on his sick bed for most of his career here, and the jury will have to decide whether Valencia has been money well spent once he returns from injury.

4.Our squad is relying on players like Randolph, O'Brien, Nolan, Amalfitano, Zarate, and Maiga. They are not competition to the likes of Cresswell, Tomka, Noble, Jenkinson, Kouyate, Reid, Sakho, and Payet, and as such it should be a concern that complacency is an issue.

5. Our attitudes to the cups have been a disgrace since promotion.

Essentially, I think we could learn a lot by looking at the model that Southampton have in place, whether we like them or not. Realistically, they are not nearly as attractive a prospect as we are, but with European Football likely to be on offer, they have already made themselves more attractive than we have.

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Bilic: it was my choice to select weakened team
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham may have thrown in the towel in Romania last night - but manager Slaven Bilic still saw enough in the performance to be pleased. Bilic, reflecting n the 2-1 defeat that saw West Ham knocked out 4-3 on aggregate by the mighty Astra Giurgiu watched the game from the stands, having been sent off during the first leg at the Boleyn Ground last week. And he was delighted with the efforts of some of his younger players, who deputised for the first team stars left at home - a decision that Bilic insisted was his, and his alone. "Some of the young players played really good," he said. "Some of them showed me that we can count on them. After some of the games we got calls from other clubs who would like to take them on loan, so there are a few positive things. "Of course we are out sooner than we wanted to be, sooner than we expected to be. But the beginning of the Premier League will show us if we got the right balance and see if we can cope with it. I think we are ready."

The demand a result of some kind at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon against Arsenal has now increased as a result of his decision to rest West Ham's star players. However Bilic says nothing has changed on that front. "We would want a result anyway," he added. "When the Premier League starts of course we are looking to get a positive result. Do I need to justify the result here? I told you it was my decision. I have spoken with the people from the club about the Europa League and about next season, which is a huge one. "I made this decision, not only for this game but for the game in Malta. I wanted to go through. I believed that we could go through with this team. I'm very proud of the effort they put in and disappointed with the result."

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The truth about Raul Jiminez
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are on the verge of completing the signing of Athletico reserve striker Raul Jiminez on loan. But what exactly do we know about him? Probably not as much as KUMB member RealisticHammer, who has watched the 24-year-old Mexican international extensively in recent seasons. So we asked RH for his views on Jiminez, who is expected to complete his move imminently. Here what he has to say about West Ham's latest acquisition...

"I saw Jiminez play quite a lot for Mexico and Atletico last season. Most people seem to think he's some kind of Sully special in the same way Sakho was, and that his record at Atletico was abysmal.

In fact, he only played four full games for Atletico last season, scoring once and getting an assist. He was used mainly as a substitute as Simeone liked his work ethic and ability to hold the ball up, he was also admired by Simeone for being a willing runner. The fact that he did not get much football last season, at a huge club like Atletico, affected his chances hugely in the national team set-up. He scored a few goals in the Copa America but Mexico prioritised the Gold Cup (which they won) and generally sent a B team to the Copa America.

Nevertheless, Jimenez played well in the two games he got to start, scoring in both. He is a good all round player and would honestly be an asset to us but a bridge too far, last season at Atletico because displacing Griezmann and Mandzukic was pretty much impossible for a newcomer to that league. I honestly believe if he gets regular games in the Premier League he could be a one-in-three kind of striker who would be beneficial to our campaign this season. For those wanting Hernandez as our main striker this season for £12million, I've seen both playing alongside each other multiple times for Mexico over the last few years and there was honestly not much in it. Jimenez is a tad slower than Hernandez, but he has a greater work ethic and is far better at holding up the ball. Hopefully he can put a poor last season behind him and hit the ground running at the Boleyn. "

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West Ham striker Andy Carroll close to return to action
Last Updated: 07/08/15 5:46pm
SSN

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic expects England striker Andy Carroll to be available for selection before the end of the month. Carroll, West Ham's record signing, has not featured since February and has made just 27 first-team appearances since arriving from Liverpool for £15m in May 2013. The news will come as welcome relief for Bilic, who already has a significant selection headache ahead of Sunday's Premier League fixture at Arsenal. The Croat has just two experienced strikers available for the game, Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate, with both Carroll and fellow-forward Enner Valencia sidelined through injury. "Our aim is to be mid-table, to be as high as possible; we will give everything we can - let's say if we finish top 10 that is major success"

Bilic is hopeful that Carroll, who has been out with a long-term knee problem, could be back before the end of the month in time to face his former club Liverpool on August 29. "Andy Carroll is doing really well," said Bilic. "He will be joining the squad in terms of training with the team very soon. "It is easy to predict (when he will be fit) but it is also hard - I ask the simple questions to our medical department but it is hard for them. "He has been working for a few weeks but last week he was doing individual stuff without any problems so now the injury is gone. We just have to bring him in slowly, but as soon as possible to gain fitness. "It should be, the target the medical department told me, Liverpool or Newcastle which is the fourth or fifth game of the season."

Bilic is still looking to reinforce his squad and expects to secure the loan signing of Raul Jimenez from Atletico Madrid this week, subject to a pending work permit. "We are close but it is not done," he said. "Hopefully it is going to be done today or tomorrow but he will not make the squad for Sunday, no way. But it would be good for us to get the player as soon as possible. That would be it done. Then I would be happy." Bilic also played down any talk of challenging for Europe this season, and stressed that the club's expectations must remain realistic. "I would like us to play good football, to win games," he said. "It's easy to say now before the first game. "Our aim is to be mid-table, to be as high as possible; we will give everything we can - let's say if we finish top 10 that is major success."

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Adrian: "A totally different style under Slaven"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Adrian has revealed that the style of football West Ham will be play under Slaven Bilic is entirely different to Sam Allardyce's 'brand.'

In an exclusive with London 24 the Hammers keeper said: "It is totally different. With Slaven we will try to keep the ball, start from the goalkeeper and the back, which is different.

"It's a different mentality with the new boss and we need to adapt quickly to the way he wants us to play."

Adrian – now firmly established as a terrace hero – is aiming for another top season and has been working out with new goalkeeping coach Chris Woods.

The Spaniard said:"He is a good man and a very good goalkeeping coach and we are training hard. I'm enjoying training with Darren Randolph and Raphael Spiegel as well, so between us we think we have the goalkeeper position well covered!"

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Redknapp: 'Bilic can lead Irons to new golden era'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Harry Redknapp believes Slaven Bilic can lead West Ham United into a new golden period in their history. In an interview with West Ham magazine Blowing Bubbles Monthly, the former Hammers chief says the Croatian is the perfect man to take the club into the Olympic Stadium.

He also reckons the move will give West Ham the chance to compete with the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea at the top of the Premier League. In a wide ranging interview in Blowing Bubbles' first issue of the season, the 68-year-old insisted the Irons were right to leave Upton Park and maintained it could herald a new dawn in the club's future.
"People say West Ham won't fill it but I think they will easily. West Ham can attract the fans, they have a great fanbase and are a well-supported club.

"It's sad to see them leave Upton Park after all this time but sooner or later you have to move on. There is no room to extend the current ground and this is a great opportunity."

Elsewhere in the August issue of the magazine, Sky Sports' Bianca Westwood writes in her column that QPR's Charlie Austin would give Bilic enough firepower to enjoy a fast start to life at West Ham.

"We need someone upfront who is a proven goalscorer and that's what Austin is," she wrote. "He works hard, tracks back and has a proven record of scoring goals at the top level." George Parris is also unveiled as the magazine's new ex-Hammer columnist after Julian Dicks had to step down from the role following his appointment to the first team coaching staff.

Meanwhile Blowing Bubbles also celebrates reaching the impressive milestone of 50 issues as well as asking if Dimitri Payet can send West Ham in a new direction, and whether summer signing Darren Randolph can really challenge Adrian to be our No 1. They also look at five thrilling opening days that will never be forgotten, and how Julian Dicks must inject old school passion into the stars of 2015. They've also got an exclusive interview with West Ham Ladies joint chairman Stephen Hunt who believes the Hammers are only 'two years away from Women's Super League'

The latest issue of Blowing Bubbles Monthly is now available to read for FREE on your computer, tablet or mobile phone.

Link: http://www.blowing-bubbles.co.uk/read-our-latest-issue.html

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Kevin Mirallas signs new three-year deal
Posted by Hammers Newshound on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Former West Ham summer target Kevin Mirallas has committed his future to Everton after he signed a new three-year deal today. The Belgian extends his stay at Goodison Park until June 2018. The 27 year old put pen to paper on his new deal on Friday. The winger has scored 29 goals in 85 starts and 25 substitute appearances for the Toffees.

Speaking to Everton TV he said: "I'm very happy to sign. I've signed at Everton to win a trophy. I'm at a good team and I can continue my performances here. Now I am very happy because I can concentrate on my team and our future, starting with the Premier League tomorrow."

The Hammers were reported to have submitted two bids over the summer for Mirallas with an initial bid of £6m increased later to £7.5m, both of which were rejected.

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BBC's hatchet job knights Mooro!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Dan Roan's well publicised programme – 'The Olympic Stadium' – shown on BBC London last night turned out ,as most expected, to be a Hammers hatchet job with a few threats thrown in for good measure. I'll leave Sean – who appeared in the show – to pick the bones pout of all that later.

However, Mr Roan managed – in reviewing the World Cup of '66- to dub the club's greatest legend Mooro "Sir Bobby Moore." If he gets something so basic entirely wrong how much else was incorrect. For such and error to find its way through the BBC's network of sub editors is pretty extraordinary but then the Corporation was so busy producing an entirely unbalanced documentary that such small details are easily overlooked I guess!!! Barry Hearn of course made his appearance for the prosecution but claimed that West Ham will eventually be worth hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of millions of pounds. But he admitted – as we have regularly argued: "The buck on this stops with Boris Johnson." Quite right so why were the Hammers in the shape of the two Davids made the fall guys by the BBC?

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Slav refuses to back down!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Slaven Bilic finds himself under pressure to get a big result at Arsenal given the events in in Romania last night. But the Irons boss refused to back off from his decision to play a "shadow" team against FC Astra and said: "We would want a result (against Arsenal) anyway. "When the Premier League starts, we have a game and of course we are looking to get a positive result. "Do I need to justify the result here? I told you it was my decision. I have spoken with the people from the club about the Europa League and about next season, which is a huge one.
"I made this decision, not only for this game but for the game in Malta (in the second qualifying round against Birkirkara). "I wanted to go through. I believed that we could go through with this team. "I'm very proud of the effort they put in and disappointed with the result.Of course we are out sooner than we wanted to be, sooner than we expected to be. "But the beginning of the Premier League will show us if we got the right balance (with the team) and see if we can cope with it – I think we are ready."

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HIJACKED: Jiminez deal in danger!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

West Ham look set to miss out on Raul Jiminez. The Hammers have of course been awaiting the Home Office result of the appeal on his work permit but events appear to have overtaken the Irons.
The Athletico Madrid striker looked to be on his way to Upton Park assuming the work permit was finally granted but the deal has hit other snags. We have been told this morning when asking if the deal was now done that it looks set to fail but not for the work permit reason. A well placed source told us exclusively: " No it hasn't been done – sadly other clubs have got into him while we waited for the appeal ."

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SHEP'S BLOG Big Sam camp waits to wield knife
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 7, 2015 in News, Shep's Blogs, Whispers
C AND H

To coin the old chestnut West Ham can now concentrate on the league. Getting knocked out of Europe in Romania on Thursday by Astra Giurgiu was no surprise in the circumstances and deep down a blessed relief for Slaven Bilic. The new West Ham boss goes into the Premier League season under immediate pressure and scrutiny and the last thing he needed was the complication of Europa League involvement. Far better for West Ham have a real go at the FA or League Cup this season for a shot at silverware and glory than the go through the grind of UEFA's hybrid competition that simply doesn't have the allure that the old knockout Cup winners and UEFA Cups had.

But the absolute priority at the club this season is ,of course ,staying in the Premier League and to that end I think that the fixture list has actually been kind to the Hammers. Yes three of the first seven games up to the end of the September are away to heavyweights Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City. But after Sunday's opener at Arsenal, come two on the spin at home against Leicester and Bournemouth followed by further home matches versus Newcastle then Norwich up to the end of September when the league will start to take shape. Those home games come into the "winnable" category and the Hammers have to take advantage of the "gentle" opening phase on home soil given those first three away games where really any points at all are bonus balls. Failure to get eight or nine points from those four home games would pile immediate pressure on the players and especially the manager not least because there are some fans and plenty of pundits out there who are from the "Should have stuck by Big Sam" camp and will only too glad and quick plunge a knife into Slaven's back.

Already this week Martin Keown is one pundit who has been particularly vocal on that front even suggesting West Ham might have to beg back Allardyce to save them from going down.
Fat chance of that. It also fails to recognise that under the so called safe hands of Big Sam the Hammers won only three of the last 21 games. That's relegation form. For all that, season's are usually shaped how a team starts and to be fair to Allardyce he had the Hammers pumped up from off the last term but then became a bit too smug about everything and that was one of the main reasons for the dismal slump. Any new manager deserves time to bed in, but time is an ever shorter commodity in this hot house era where instant results and judgements are made. So Bilic has to fire the team to get out of the blocks and into a stride. On the face of it playing Arsenal away in the first game doesn't help then again if the Hammers pulled off a draw or even snatched a win then suddenly Bilic has a bit more breathing space. And one hopes the new manager will show a bit more tactical ambition that Allardyce when it came to away games especially against the big clubs. I have a feeling he might. But the key to the whole season is those first four home games. To that end with Enner Valencia out for at least three months there is urgent need to sign a proven goal scorer, and that Andy Carroll might actually get fit.

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Noble: "It'll take a while to learn Slav's ways."
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Mark Noble believes the squad will need a couple of months to understand Slaven Bilic's ways. Noble – in an excellent exclusive interview with London24 – said: ""I might have a little bit of a different role to play, it depends on how the manager plays as he has two or three ?different ways he likes to play. But wherever he asks me to go, I am happy with that." Noble has admitted in the past it's not been an ideal building and adds: It is definitely the strangest pre-season I have had – a million per cent!" said the 28-year-old midfielder. "Normally you have all your pre-season away from home until the week before the season and the fans get really excited, but things have not gone that way. "We have gone through the Europa with the squad not being together for the first two weeks, with the manager not being able to play his best team." But he appears to back the manager placing the emphasis on the Premier League declaring: "So long as the boys ready to go for Sunday, that is the key." Discussing some indifferent results he explained: "I used to get so wound up when I was 20 or 2 and think we are not ready', but you are, you know? "Last summer we went to New Zealand and got battered by an Australian and a New Zealand team, but look at the way we started the season. "To be honest, the results don't really matter as long as you stay fit and keep the morale high." "The new boys are still ?learning. The Premier League is a completely different kettle of fish to anything they've experienced and Arsenal is going to be a tough one to go into first up. "They are important games, but Leicester are going to be buzzing with a new manager and staying up last season, Bournemouth are a decent side, I watched them a lot last season and they are also going to be buzzing playing in the top flight. We have to match their energy and show our quality." Noble is likely to be playing with French new boy Dimitri Payet and he is pleased with that. "If he keeps creating goals then why not give him the ball? We have been crying out for a player like that, a creative player for a long time. "

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Sullivan working 20 hours per day to sign players
Posted by Hammers Newshound on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

David Sullivan junior took to twitter to defend his father after last night's exit from Europa league. Sullivan Junior told his 13,000 followers on twitter "I highly doubt West Ham would exist now if we didn't take over. The future is bright." When challenged whether West Ham would have gone bust without his dad's help young Dave replied "Yes I am saying that. Or they would be playing the league one/two by now and be skint." When asked when we haven't signed a new striker Sullivan Junior said: "My dad is working between 15-20 hours every day to sign players it isn't easy! I can't even get hold of him !"

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Bilic: 'Jimenez deal is close'
Posted by Hammers Newshound on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has confirmed the Hammer closing in on the signature of Atletico Madrid striker Raul Jimenez. Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Bilic said: "Jimenez is close. We hope to get it done today or tomorrow, but he would not be ready for Sunday's game.' Speaking about Sunday's game at the Emirates Bilic added: "I'm excited for Sunday. I was here before and have played against English teams in European competition. I'm looking forward to it. I'm ready and the team is ready. I would like us to play good football and to win games, which is easy to say now before the start"

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Bilic: 'Some players may leave the club'
Posted by Hammers Newshound on August 7, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Slaven Bilic has admitted some players may still leave the club this transfer window but confirmed that he wants one striker and one more player in midfield before the Hammers transfer business is complete. Speaking at his pre-match press conference this afternoon Bilic said "Some players may leave the club and some have left already. We want 1 striker and 1 more player in midfield and that would be it" Players likely not to be in Bilic's plans include Kevin Nolan, Matt Jarvis and Maiga who could still be outbound if reasonable offers come in. The inbound striker is likely to be Raul Jimenez which Bilic says should be done today or tomorrow and the midfielder is likely to be Alex Song which the Hammers haven't given up on as yet. It appears our transfer window is almost done.

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Andy Carroll could return for West Ham against Liverpool this month, reveals Slaven Bilic
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Friday, August 7, 2015

West Ham boss Slaven Bilic has revealed Andy Carroll is three weeks away from returning to action. The striker has been out since February with a knee injury as fitness woes continue to plague his time at Upton Park. However, a video of the 26-year-old back running this week was posted on the West Ham website. And now manager Bilic has confirmed that the England international could return to action by the time the Hammers play Liverpool at the end of the month. "He is doing really well," said Bilic. "The medical team told me it is likely to be the Liverpool (29th August) or Newcastle game (14th September), which is our fourth or fifth game."

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Defender Offered Four-Year Contract By Hammers
Posted by whufc_news@hotmail.com on August 6, 2015 in News, Transfer Rumours

West Ham United have offered a four-year contract to Inter Milan defender Danilo D'Ambrosio, according to Italian source Tutto Mercato. The Hammers have been locked in negotiations with the representatives of the 26 year-old, who can operate as a left or right-back, and they have finally proposed an offer to take him to Upton Park. Despite this, the East London club are yet to find an agreement with the player's club, who are demanding a fee of around £5m for the Italian. West Ham face competition from Bundesliga side FC Schalke, who have already made a bid to sign D'Ambrosio.

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Raul Jimenez will be West Ham's last summer signing, says Slaven Bilic
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Friday, August 7, 2015

West Ham boss Slaven Bilic has confirmed the club are on the verge of signing Raul Jimenez. The Atletico Madrid forward is set to arrive on a season-long loan as the Hammers attempt to strengthen their forward line. The Mexico international started just four La Liga games last season and is keen to gain more first-team opportunities. Jimenez should complete his switch before Sunday's Premier League opener against Arsenal, but will not feature at the Emirates. And he will be the last arrival at Upton Park this summer, according to Bilic. "Jimenez is close. We hope to get it done today or tomorrow but he would not be ready for Sunday's game," said Bilic. "That would be it [for signings] then."

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West Ham given attacking boost as Slaven Bilic confirms Raul Jimenez move is close and Andy Carroll is edging towards a return
By PRESS ASSOCIATION
PUBLISHED: 14:49, 7 August 2015 | UPDATED: 14:49, 7 August 2015
Daily MailOnline

Slaven Bilic says West Ham are close to signing Atletico Madrid striker Raul Jimenez over the next 24 hours – with Andy Carroll likely to return to action at the end of this month. The West Ham manager was speaking just eight hours after returning home after a disappointing elimination from the Europa League. The east Londoners were dumped out of the Europa League third qualifying round on Thursday night following a 2-1 defeat in the second leg by Romanian side Astra. To ensure they possess enough fire-power before the start of the Premier League, West Ham are keen to seal the deal for Mexican international Jimenez on a £1.4million season-long loan as quickly as possible. Bilic, preparing for Sunday's Premier League clash at Arsenal, said: 'We are close (to signing Jimenez). But it's not done yet. Hopefully, it will be done Thursday, or Friday. Anyway, he will not make the squad for Sunday. 'It will be good for us to get a player as soon as possible considering that in some positons we need players.'

Andy Carroll has been sidelined since February following major surgery on a knee injury. The operation meant that the England international missed the remainder of last season. Bilic says that he may return to action in late August or early September – which could mean potentially playing against one of his former clubs, either Liverpool away or Newcastle United at home.
Bilic confirmed: 'Andy is doing well. He will be joining the squad in terms of training with the team very soon. I ask the same simple questions to my physio and medical department. It's hard for them to know. 'He's working well, working for a few weeks now. We want to bring him back slowly but as soon as possible without any risk to his training, so he can gain fitness.
'The target of the medical department is the Liverpool or Newcastle United games, the fourth or fifth games of the season.' Bilic stood by his decision to send over a second-string side to Romania – given that he has to field a strong team to face the Gunners three days later at the Emirates. Many of the 330 fans that travelled to Eastern Europe were unhappy with the under-strengthen side that played as well as the overall performance. But the Croatian said that remaining in the Premier League is the No.1 priority. He said: 'Of course we wanted to go through but then we didn't want to jeopardise the Premier League. For us, the league starts on Sunday with a big game, but we will be ready for when it starts. 'We are ready for the beginning of the Premier League.'

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THE STRIKER GAP PART 1
By Blind Hammer 7 Aug 2015 at 13:30
West Ham Till I Die

Why have West Ham struggle to produce Strikers? In the first of a 2 part blog Blind Hammer examines a little acknowledged structural problem with youth development at West Ham

The current scramble, in the light of Valencia's injury, to invest resources in a striker is but the latest example of what has become an annual event at West Ham. Every year we always seem to need to buy or loan in strikers in an effort to increase the team's potency. Rarely has this need been met from within. I hope I am proved wrong, but sadly Elliot Lee appears to be the latest striker hopeful who will probably follow the likes of Freddie Sears and Gary Alexander to the lower divisions to continue their careers.

In the first match I ever saw at the Boleyn in November 1968, Geoff Hurst and Brian Dear were part of a fizzling team that demolished Leicester City. Hurst and Dear were both products of West Ham's then famous youth development. Geoff Hurst actually went to my school in Chelmsford, whilst Brian Dear was an East Ender who joined the club as a 15 year old. He never reached the heights of Hurst but nevertheless scored 33 goals in 69 league appearances, a ratio of goal success that would be startling nowadays for a youth product and would probably invoke suggestions of international recognition. Dear never got anywhere near the England team and was really a footballing flash in the pan. Nevertheless he played in a victorious European Cup Winners Final team, and holds the record for the quickest ever five goals in an English game, 20 minutes either side of half time, in a 1965 FA Cup home tie against West Bromwich Albion. Dear though severely blotted his copybook with Greenwood in 1970 when he was found to be with Bobby Moore, Jimmy Greaves and Clyde Best in the infamous nightclub session, hours before West Ham crashed out 4-0 to Blackpool in the third round of the FA Cup. He was never really seen again.

The point is however is that it is now 50 years since 1965 and with one glorious exception the Academy has not produced any similar talent which equates to the achievements of Brian Dear, let alone Geoff Hurst. The exception is of course Tony Cottee who was able to delight in the service provided by another local product, Trevor Brooking during the 1980s.

We may be able to claim a little credit for the development of Jermaine Defoe, but it should be remembered that he was actually a product of the Charlton Academy that we were able to poach, much to their chagrin. Defoe spent little development time at West Ham in comparison to his time at Charlton, instead cutting his teeth in his famous year long loan spell at Bournemouth where he smashed goal scoring records.

Clearly the Academy has produced some good players over the last 50 years but rarely have these players been strikers. Defenders yes, Ferdinand and Tomkins immediately come to mind, and midfield players relatively frequently, from Geoff Pike to the more illustrious Joe Cole and Frank Lampard Junior, and more contemporaneously Mark Noble.

But when was the last time a West Ham development striker was even a regular part of the first team squad let alone the team itself?

According to David Sullivan the current overhauling of the Academy setup at West Ham is prompted by a general concern about the once famous Academy's recent failure to bring through players of sufficient quality. Sullivan's concern is well merited. He points out that the Academy invests £4 million a year in producing talent. Presumably then the club have invested something like £30 to £40 million over the last 10 years in essentially producing Noble and Tomkins, neither of which are necessarily guaranteed a starting place in Bilic's assembling new team. There are some promising signs from Reeces Burke and Oxford but again these are defensive/midfield developments. Elliot Lee may still develop but he did not set Luton on fire in the same way that Defoe impacted Bournemouth in his spell there.

Of course it would only take the production of one successful striker every 5 years to completely revolutionise the efficacy and cost effectiveness of the Academy. However its current success rate is one striker every 50 years. To my mind this is unacceptable. In part 2 of my blog I will examine the disastrous consequences of this Gap in our Academy places on our Club transfer policy, and start to suggest some strategic improvements which may possibly finally start to resolve this historic deficiency.

David Griffith

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Diamanti set for Watford
By Football Italia staff

Alessandro Diamanti, who spent the second half of last season at Fiorentina, is reportedly close to joining Watford. The Italian international moved to the Viola in January, on loan from Guangzhou Evergrande, making 11 appearances and scoring twice. According to Sky Sports News, the 32-year-old has passed a medical with the Hornets, and is ready to join up with the English Premier League side. Diamanti is believed to have agreed personal terms for the move, and is set to become the 12th signing for the newly-promoted side. The player has previous Premier League experience, having spent a memorable season with West Ham United.

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West Ham 'cleared to sign Alen Halilovic after insider confirms he will leave Barcelona'
Louis Sealey for Metro.co.uk
Friday 7 Aug 2015 1:54 pm

West Ham 'cleared to sign future superstar after insider confirms he will leave Euro giants' West Ham have been cleared to complete a deal to bring Alen Halilovic to Upton Park after a Barcelona insider confirmed he would leave the Spanish giants. The Hammers have been heavily linked with the 19-year-old, who has impressed a host of clubs with solid performances for Barcelona B and Croatia. And the east London club have seemingly been given the green light to complete a move for Halilovic with Barcelona's technical secretary, Robert Fernandez, revealing that he will be loaned out. 'Halilovic will be loaned,' Fernandez was quoted as saying by Spanish outlet Sport. 'We are looking for the best option for him, one that's right for him to grow with.'

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Slaven Bilic comments on Enner Valencia's injury, discusses making more signings
HITC
Billy Hawkins

West Ham star Valencia will be out of action for a couple of months. Valencia injured his ankle in pre-season, keeping him out for the start of the Premier League season, and Bilic has told the Standard that his loss is a huge blow - even though the club will look at signing more players. He said: "I am absolutely gutted for Enner Valencia. He is a smashing lad, he is a big player for us and it's a giant blow that he has injured his ankle and knee. It could have been worse, though, and hopefully he will be back in 10 to 12 weeks. In the meantime, we will keep looking for top players — not a lot of them but the right ones for us." It is true that Valencia will be a big loss, having shown his abilities for the Hammers last term. Although struggling to find the back of the net consistently, the Ecuadorian striker proved to be a valuable attacking player, and his running and work rate in the final third was the perfect accompaniment for the more precise Diafra Sakho. He would have been looking to get off to a good start this campaign, especially with better attacking players around him, but Valencia will now be behind his teammates in the search for fitness - and is not likely to play for 12 weeks. However, Bilic has eased some fears by admitting that new players are still being targeted - if they are the correct fit for the club. There have been calls to bring in another striker, due to Andy Carroll's injury issues, and the latest set-back to Valencia means that the Hammers may push ahead with their plans. Bilic appears keen with the strike force he already has, with Modibo Maiga taking a role in the Europa League, potentially hinting at a Premier League position for him, and a new striker may not be a priority. However, even if Bilic pushes forward with the strike force he has - with Sakho the only top level player available - signings in other positions may be possible if the Croatian boss finds players who suit his system.

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West Ham duo send message to fans on Twitter after Europa League disappointment
HITC
Subhankar Mondal

West Ham United will not feature in the group stage of the Europa League this season. West Ham United striker Elliot Lee has taken to social networking site Twitter to express his disappointment at his side's failure to progress to the group stage of the Europa League this season. The Premier League outfit lost the third qualifying round 4-3 on aggregate to Romanian side Astra Giurgiu. Having drawn the first leg of the tie 2-2 at the Boleyn Ground last week, the Hammers lost the second leg 2-1 away from home on Thursday. Lee, who started Thursday's second leg and played for 80 minutes, has taken to Twitter to express his disappointment. West Ham goalkeeper Adrian was also dejected to watch his team fail to secure a place in the playoff round of the Europa League. Failure to play in the Europa League proper will be a huge disappointment to West Ham, but it is time that they turn their focus to the Premier League.
The first league game of the season for the Hammers is against Arsenal away from home at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

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West Ham co-owner's son responds to fans on Twitter, plenty of frustration
Tim Poole

West Ham's Europa League exit has seen tensions rise on social media. The son of West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan, Dave, has responded to a few frustrated fans on Twitter following the east London club's Europa League exit. West Ham's 2-1 loss to Astra Giurgiu on Thursday night, which eliminated them from European competition after a very brief qualifying stint indeed, has split opinion at Upton Park and caused tensions to rise on social media. Indeed, many feel the Hammers will be better off without the second-tier tournament but plenty are frustrated with a repeat of the disappointing feeling that plagued last season. As such, Sullivan Jr, brother of Jack, took to Twitter with the strong claim that West Ham wouldn't exist now were it not for his father and fellow co-owner David Gold.
Importantly, he also suggested even he can't get hold of the owners as they are working '15-20 hours every day' to recruit new players for West Ham. West Ham travel to the Emirates Stadium next to face Arsenal on Sunday afternoon for their Premier League opener. Now that the Hammers are out of Europe, disappointment in the league won't be met too well by supporters.

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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic gives Raul Jimenez transfer update
HITC
Subhankar Mondal

Raul Jimenez looks set to join West Ham United from Atletico Madrid. West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has been quoted as saying by the club's official Twitter page that they are close to the signing of Raul Jimenez. The Mexico international striker is on the books of Atletico Madrid at the moment, but it seems that the 24-year-old is set to join the Hammers imminently.
Jimenez does not seem to feature in the plans of Atletico coach Diego Simeone for the 2015-16 campaign, having struggled to play well last season. During the 2014-15 campaign, the Mexican scored one goal and created eight chances in 21 La Liga appearances for Atletico. Jimenez had a pass accuracy of 70% and a shot accuracy of 63%, and won 20 headers, three dribbles and 11 tackles. The jury is out on whether the 24-year-old former Club America striker will be a success at West Ham, but perhaps the London outfit did not have a choice other than to sign him.
It will be interesting to see how Jimenez adapts to the Premier League, having not had a proper pre-season with West Ham.

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Matthew Etherington poses key Allardyce question on Twitter after West Ham exit
HITC
Tim Poole

The former West Ham winger feels the current boss might be getting off lightly...

Ex-West Ham United winger Matthew Etherington believes Sam Allardyce would have been heavily criticised for fielding the team Slaven Bilic did in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Indeed, Bilic made it clear he was picking a weakened side against Astra Giurgiu in Europe and the Hammers were subsequently knocked out of the tournament, losing 2-1 on the night. Many feel the loss will help West Ham concentrate on their forthcoming Premier League campaign, however. And yet Etherington believes Allardyce would have been hammered (pardon the pun) for similar tactics. Meanwhile, former West Ham midfielder Trevor Sinclair, now a pundit with the BBC, also took to Twitter to air his opinion and his response to the club's Europa League exit was a calm one. Indeed, Sinclair feels the east London side's squad isn't yet big enough to compete both in Europe and the Premier League. As such, he delivered the following response to a fan who asked the question of what exactly the point of achieving a high finish is if elimination is the subsequent result.

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Report: West Ham United to miss out on Barcelona wonderkid Alen Halilovic to Celta Vigo
HITC
Mathew Nash

The young Croatian is set to remain in Spain next season. This week it looked like West Ham United would be making a move for Croatian international wonderkid Alen Halilovic. The player is known to countryman and current West Ham manager Slaven Bilic, who wanted to bring him in from Barcelona 'B' – who will be playing in Spain's third tier next season. But with a move to West Ham seemingly on the cards, suddenly the rug has been pulled up from underneath The Hammers. It is now reported that Barcelona will not be selling or loaning him to West Ham at all.
Instead, he will be sent on loan to La Liga rivals Celta Vigo. Mundo Deportivo are reporting that Barca would much rather see Halilovic head out on loan to a a team in Spain – so they can properly track their progress. Barca have good links with Celta Vigo. Current boss Luis Enrique is the former Celta manager and the likes of Rafinha have enjoyed loan spells at the club in the past. West Ham will be gutted if they lose out on Halilovic, as it seemed a deal that should have been easy to get tied up. Now they are out of Europe for the season they have lost yet another bargaining chip in their hunt for the player, which makes matters worse. It looks like Halilovic is slipping from their grasp.

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West Ham will reap rewards of Machiavellian Europa League plot
bwin.com

After three rounds of trying to varying degrees, West Ham finally sealed an exit from the Europa League on Thursday, going out 4-3 on aggregate to Astra Giurgiu. Somehow they'd survived three red cards, a penalty shootout and a two-goal lead let slip prior to the second leg in Romania, where a suicide note squad selection finally put them out of their misery. For many Irons who had been cherishing the prospect of seeing the Boleyn Ground's final campaign burnished with European evenings under the Thursday-night lights, their seemingly wilful capitulation will stick in the craw. All the more so given the upcoming Premier League match against Arsenal, the most likely excuse for fielding such an understrength line-up in Girgiu, pits Slaven Bilic's men against a side who have done the double over them four times in succession. Yet, while such a ploy can be regarded as unsporting and disrespectful to a loyal fanbase robbed of the chance to travel the outposts of the continent for too long, it's also shrewd. Unless a club can sustain the size of squad reserved for Champions League aspirants then the Europa League is a domestic-divisional millstone. Just ask Newcastle, Swansea or Everton – all of whom have suffered when trying to juggle European football with their default commitments in recent campaigns. The Irons are now free to concentrate on top-flight mid-table consolidation ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium next season without fear of being drawn into squad-stretched relegation skirmish. Championship football in such a hulking arena would not be a good look. Odds compilers at bwin.com have priced up a Premier League seasonal match bet between Bilic's side and Southampton, who, unlike West Ham, qualified for the Europa League play-off round. It has the looks of a fascinating betting heat, with the Saints 4/11 favourites and the Eastenders must be value at 2/1 to finish above the south-coast club. Ronald Koeman's squad has been raided for key players over the summer – true they bounced back from a similar setback last season, but the added burden of regular European football may thwart them in their attempts to do similar this time. West Ham, by contrast, will be unanchored, free to float up the standings like those Boleyn Ground bubbles in the stadium's farewell campaign.

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Real Madrid Barcelona Atletico Madrid Valencia Sevilla Villarreal Malaga Celta Vigo Espanyol Real Sociedad Eibar Athletic Bilbao Getafe Rayo Vallecano Deportivo La Coruña Almeria Elche insidespanishfootball.com
by Tom Conn | Posted on Friday, August 7th, 2015

West Ham United have reportedly secured the season-long loan for Atletico Madrid striker Raul Jimenez for a fee of £1.4 million, after the London side secured a work permit for the 24-year-old. According to various media outlets in both Spain and England, West Ham have been working diligently on securing the Mexican international, who has been deemed as surplus to the requirement at the Vicente Calderon, even giving away his number. After securing the work permit, West Ham will now sit down with Atletico officials on Friday to finalise the deal, which comes with a purchase option following the expiration of the loan on 30th June. Jimenez will become West Ham's ninth signing so far this season, freeing up a non-EU spot on Atletico Madrid's roster, while also giving the Mexican a chance to have consistent first team minutes. Jimenez is expected to arrive in London and undergo his standard medical as the team prepares for their English Premier League opener against Arsenal on the weekend. Jimenez was unable to break into Diego Simeone's starting XI last season, despite the injury to Mario Mandzukic, and made 21 La Liga appearances, scoring just one goal last season.

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Kevin Nolan admits he could leave West Ham after shock Europa League exit
London 24
06:55 07 August 2015 Brad Pinard

West Ham captain Kevin Nolan is keen to sit down and discuss his future with boss Slaven Bilic. The 33-year-old led the Hammers to defeat on Thursday night in Romania against Astra which saw them knocked out of the Europa League. It may be Nolan's last ever European appearance but it could also be his final game for West Ham as Bilic has plenty of options in midfield. "The gaffa has been great with me this summer," Nolan told BT Sport "I will probably sit down with him between now and the end of the window and have a chat. "I love the club, I am 33, I have got a lot of years left in me. "I would like to stay, I am not that type of player, but that is a long way away." Nolan is unlikely to feature as the Hammers head to Arsenal on Sunday.

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Slaven Bilic hails West Ham youngsters despite being dumped out of Europa League
By PA REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 06:55, 7 August 2015 | UPDATED: 06:56, 7 August 2015

Slaven Bilic praised his sought-after youngsters despite seeing his West Ham side eliminated from the Europa League at the hands of Astra Giurgiu. With Sunday's Premier League opener against Arsenal always Bilic's priority, the Hammers boss took an inexperienced squad out to Romania, looking to move into the Europa League qualification play-off round. But, after a 2-2 draw in the opening leg at Upton Park last week, his young players could not get the job done - despite debutant Manuel Lanzini giving them an early lead. A four-minute brace from Astra captain Constantin Budescu turned the match and the tie in favour of the Liga I side and they held on to progress - but Bilic was pleased with the young players who have shown their worth in their ultimately unsuccessful attempt to reach the group stages. 'Some of the young players played really good,' he said. 'Some of them showed me that we can count on them. After some of the games we got calls from other clubs who would like to take them on loan so there are a few positive things. 'Of course we are out sooner than we wanted to be, sooner than we expected to be. But the beginning of the Premier League will show us if we got the right balance (with the team) and see if we can cope with it - I think we are ready.' Bilic will now be under pressure to prove his decision to leave his key players in London was justified by recording a positive result at the Emirates Stadium - but he did not back down from his original call. 'We would want a result (against Arsenal) anyway,' he added. 'When the Premier League starts, we have a game and of course we are looking to get a positive result. 'Do I need to justify the result here? I told you it was my decision. I have spoken with the people from the club about the Europa League and about next season, which is a huge one. 'I made this decision, not only for this game but for the game in Malta (in the second qualifying round against Birkirkara). 'I wanted to go through. I believed that we could go through with this team. I'm very proud of the effort they put in and disappointed with the result.' Astra coach Marius Sumudica admitted he was aware of West Ham's plans to rotate their squad for the second leg - but accused the Premier League club of underestimating his side at Upton Park. 'I followed all of the discussions (about team selection) in London,' he said. 'I want to stress that we obtained this qualification in London. West Ham thought they could comfortably win this qualifying round and have an easy second match. I understand why they kept their players in London to face Arsenal - but we obtained this result in London.'

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Both West Ham and Everton willing to pay £7m to complete deal, fight on
Posted by SPORT WITNESS on August 7, 2015 at 6:54 in Sport Witness Football

Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo on Friday have a piece on the future of Barcelona youngster Alen Halilovic. The Croatian only signed for Barcelona because they assured him he'd spend a year with Barcelona B before moving up to the first team squad.

Talks have taken place this week between Barcelona and the player's agent and it's hard to see how Halilovic could have any meaningful role with Barcelona's first team next season, and a lack of games could harm the youngster's development.

Cue rumours. West Ham United rumours relating to Halilovic have all over the place this last week, and that's all over the place in terms of what has been in the actual claims rather than the distribution. On Friday Mundo Deportivo say that both West Ham and Everton would be prepared to pay €10m for the player, which works out to be around £7m. Neither have actually made that offer yet.

However, both English clubs may be better served not fighting with each other for Halilovic and walking away, because Mundo Deportivo say a loan within La Liga is more likely. Barcelona have a decent relationship with Celta Vigo and Mundo Deportivo see that as the most likely destination as things stand.

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West Ham fans react on Twitter to Manuel Lanzini's performance
HITC
Dan Coombs

West Ham got their first look at new midfielder Manuel Lanzini last night, as the side took on Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League. The Argentine playmaker was part of an inexperienced side who lost in Romania, with the exit from the competition a potential blessing in disguise for the club's Premier League campaign. Lanzini at least showed what he could do in the circumstances, scoring the side's only goal in a 2-1 loss on the night. He is on loan from Emirates club Al Jazira, and will hope he has done enough to earn more chances for the first team, but it was not all positive for him. Lanzini was culpable for Astra's first goal, giving the ball away to the opposition, but it is hard to be too harsh on him, and nor were watching supporters. The reaction to his performance was positive, with Lanzini seen as one of the reasons to be cheerful on a night the club suffered defeat. He showed energy in possession and was trying to make things happen, but found it tough with Modibo Maiga offering little up front in terms of movement.

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Astra Giurgiu 2 West Ham United 1; agg 4-3, Europa League match report: Slaven Bilic gamble backfires
Astra Giurgiu v West Ham United, Europa League qualifier - East London club's European adventure fails at first hurdle in Romania
telegraph.co.uk
By Mark Bryans, Marin Anastasovici Stadium11:35PM BST 06 Aug 2015

Slaven Bilic watched from the stands as his Europa League gamble ended with West Ham crashing out in Romania. The Hammers manager left a host of first-team players at home ahead of this tie – despite the fact that it was hanging in the balance following a 2-2 draw at Upton Park a week ago. Bilic was sent to the stands late on in that game and was not in the dugout as his Romanian roll of the dice did not see his side come up trumps – with Astra captain Constantin Budescu scoring twice in four first-half minutes to cancel out the Argentine Manuel Lanzini's early opener and seal a memorable 2-1 win for the hosts. Lanzini, who had already delivered a tempting free-kick and a corner which led to Kevin Nolan's effort being hacked off the line, collected the ball and his low shot squeezed in off the post with just 2½ minutes gone. Astra almost levelled when the busy Budescu's whipped free-kick caught out Darren Randolph in the West Ham goal and came back off the crossbar. It was a different outcome when he next had a sight of goal as the 26-year-old collected the ball before driving forward unchallenged and arrowing a low 25-yard effort out of Randolph's reach. West Ham's young defence had started well but the leveller seemed to knock their confidence and Budescu capitalised on indecisiveness at a cross as he finished coolly to put the home team ahead at the break. As many as six of the visitors' starting line-up have never appeared in the Barclays Premier League for West Ham while defensive duo Doneil Henry and Kyle Knoyle and new signing Lanzini were making their club debuts. Bilic had no obvious options on the bench as his experimental side toiled in the humid conditions, with captain Nolan coming close on the hour mark as he looked to inspire those around him. It was Astra who started to threaten again as the second half wore on and Fernando Boldrin almost followed up his goal from the opening leg with another here, only for Randolph to tip his effort behind. Lanzini stung the palms of Silvu Lung with West Ham's first effort of note since the break, but there were only 12 minutes remaining and his side looked bereft of ideas. Randolph was the busier of the two goalkeepers and was again at his best to push away two late Denis Alibec shots but his team-mates could not find the equaliser they needed to force extra time and dreams of a lengthy European campaign to mark the final season at Upton Park came to an abrupt and feeble conclusion.

Match details
Astra Giurgiu: Lung; Pedro Queiros, Gaman, Geraldo Alves (Oros 19), Junior Morais, Seto, Boldrin, Enache, Teixeira (Alibec 67), William Amorim, Budescu (Lovin 83).
Subs: Gavrilas (g), Florea, Dandea, Stan.
Booked: Junior Morais, Alibec, Lovin.
West Ham: Randolph; Knoyle, Jenkinson, Henry, Page (Pike 90), Lanzini, Cullen, Poyet, Nolan, Lee (Brown 80), Maiga.
Subs: Spiegel (g), Chambers, Mavila, Nasha, Pask.
Booked: Cullen, Henry.
Referee: P Valeri (Italy).

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Astra Giurgiu vs West Ham United match report: Slaven Bilic's men miss out on Europa League as Romania gamble goes awry
Astra Giurgiu 2 West Ham United 1 (Astra Giurgiu win 4-3 on aggregate)
MARK BRYANS STADIONUL MARIN ANASTASOVICI Thursday 06 August 2015
The Independent

Slaven Bilic watched from the stands as his Europa League gamble ended with West Ham going bust and crashing out in Romania. The Hammers manager left several first-team players at home for this tie despite the 2-2 draw in the first leg at Upton Park a week ago. Bilic was sent to the stands late on in that game and was not in the dugout as his Romanian roll of the dice was unrewarded. The Astra captain, Constantin Budescu, scored twice in four first-half minutes to cancel out Manuel Lanzini's early opener and seal a memorable 2-1 win for the hosts. Six of the visitors' starting line-up have never appeared in the Premier League for West Ham, with defensive duo Doneil Henry and Kyle Knoyle joining Lanzini as debutants. Bilic said: "I wanted to go through. I believed that we could go through with this team. I'm very proud of the effort they put in and disappointed with the result."

Lanzini collected the ball and his low shot squeezed in off the post with just two and half minutes gone. But Astra had proved last week that they can be a potent attacking force and almost levelled when the busy Budescu's whipped free-kick caught out Darren Randolph in the West Ham goal and came back off the crossbar. It was a different outcome when he next had a sight of goal as the 26-year-old collected the ball before driving forward unchallenged and arrowing a low, 25-yard effort out of Randolph's reach. West Ham's young defence had started well but that goal seemed to knock their confidence and Budescu was on hand to capitalise on some indecision at a cross as he finished coolly to put the home team in charge at the interval.
Bilic had no obvious options on the bench as his experimental side toiled in the humidity. Nolan came close on the hour mark as he looked to inspire those around him. It was Astra who threatened again as the second half wore on and Fernando Boldrin almost followed up his goal from the opening leg with another, only for Randolph to tip his effort behind. Lanzini stung the palms of Silvu Lung with West Ham's first effort of note after the break, but there were only 12 minutes remaining and his side looked bereft of ideas. Randolph was at his best to push away two late Denis Alibec shots but his team-mates could not find the equaliserthey needed and dreams of a European campaign to mark the final season at Upton Park came to an abrupt and feeble conclusion.

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West Ham join the race to sign Leicester City target Inler
Posted by Eren Sarigul August 7, 2015
turkish-football.com

West Ham, Schalke 04, Besiktas, Fiorentina, Hamburg and Werder Bremen are all in the race to sign Napoli central midfielder Gokhan Inler according to Sky Sports journalist Gianluca di Marzio. The report goes onto state that Leicester City are currently front runners in the race with Inler's agent currently in England holding talks with the Premier League side.
The Foxes are understood to have tabled an offer of €6 million for the 31-year-old. Leicester's newly appointed manager Claudio Ranieri revealed earlier this week that he was close to securing a replacement for Esteban Cambiasso. Cambiasso opted against extending his contract with the Foxes and departed the club at the end of last season. Inler scored one goal in 33 appearances for Napoli in all competitions last season. The Switzerland international has also previously played for Udinese, Zurich and FC Basel. Leicester pulled off the 'great-escape' last season to beat the drop. The foxes ended the season in 14th place with 41 points.

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