Match preview - FC Lusitans
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United take their first steps into European competition for nine
years on Thursday when they welcome Andorran side FC Lusitans to the Boleyn
Ground for a UEFA Europa League first qualifying round first leg tie.
The Hammers last featured at continental level in a short-lived UEFA Cup
campaign in 2006/07, when Italian side Palermo triumphed 4-0 on aggregate
against the east Londoners at the first round stage.
On that occasion West Ham qualified for the competition by finishing as FA
Cup runners-up, while this time around their position at the head of the
Barclays Premier League's Fair Play League was enough to gain entry to the
Europa League at this early stage.
Slaven Bilic's men are among 102 sides who debut in this round, with West
Ham the top seeds. Their opponents qualified by virtue of finishing second
in the Andorra Primera Divisao and are searching for their first win in
Europe.
They were defeated 7-3 on aggregate by Faroese side EB/Streymur in their
last European tie – a 2013/14 UEFA Champions League first qualifying round
match – while eight European fixtures have brought them seven defeats and a
draw.
The history
West Ham are emarking on their seventh European campaign this year, having
competed four times in the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup and twice in the UEFA Cup
previously.
Their glory days in Europe have come in the Cup Winners' Cup, with a title
to the Club's name in 1964/65, as well as an appearance in the 1975/76 final
and 1965/66 semi-finals.
More recently, the battled through three rounds of the UEFA Intertoto Cup to
earn a spot in the UEFA Cup, where they defeated Croatian outfit Osijek
before the run was ended by Steaua Bucharest.
Lusitans' European pedigree is more limited. Founded in 1999, they soon
progressed to the top of Andorran football and won the title in both 2011/12
and 2012/13, They have appeared in the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA
Champions League twice before, exiting in the first qualifying round on all
four occasions.
Team news
West Ham United
Academy Manager Terry Westley, who will be in the dugout for this fixture,
has already named his team, with Darren Randolph debuting in goal. Joey
O'Brien, James Tomkins, Reece Burke and Lewis Page will play across the
back, with Matt Jarvis, Diego Poyet, Reece Oxford and Morgan Amalfitano in
front of them. Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate will lead the line up front.
That means first team debuts for Page and Oxford, who at 16 years and 198
days old will become the Club's youngest ever players. There is also a
return for Mauro Zarate following his loan at Queens Park Rangers, while
James Tomkins captains the team.
FC Lusitans
The Andorrans' squad contains their country's most experienced international
in Oscar Sonejee, who possesses 101 caps. Other notable players include
defender Edu Moya, who played in the Spanish top flight for Recreativo de
Huelva between 2006-08, and Sierra Leone international Alfi Conteh-Lacalle,
who came through the Barcelona academy. His manager Xavi Roura was also a
product of Barca.
Match facts
The match officials for Thursday's game are all from Latvia. Vadims
Direktorenko, 34, is the man with the whistle.
Three West Ham United players will make their debuts for the Club on
Thursday – Darren Randolph, Lewis Page and Reece Oxford.
Lusitans have conceded 33 goals in their eight matches in European
competition, hitting the net four times themselves.
Three of those four goals came in their last tie, a 7-3 aggregate defeat to
EB/Streymur in which they held a 2-0 lead at one point.
They won twelve of their 20 league games last season, scoring an impressive
53 goals in the process.
Betting
The Club's Principal Partner Betway have over 100 markets on the game. Check
out their betting preview here.
Tickets, Travel, Weather & TV Coverage
Standard tickets for this game have SOLD OUT. However, a limited number of
hospitality packages remain. Click here for full details.
whufc.com will be streaming the game exclusively live and free! Full details
can be found here.
No closures are planned on the Underground lines serving Upton Park. At
present, a good service is also anticipated on Greater Anglia and c2c
services.
Sunny intervals are expected around time of kick-off, with temperatures of
23C/73F
Please be aware that alcohol will not be sold at the concourse concessions
in accordance with UEFA regulations.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley to play key role in Europa League opener
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Academy Manager & Head of Coaching and Player Development
Terry Westley is set to play a key role in Thursday's UEFA Europa League
first qualifying round first leg against FC Lusitans of Andorra. Westley
took training as a mixture of senior professionals and Development Squad
players prepared for the season opener on a week-long training camp in
Ireland, with new manager Slaven Bilic linking up with the squad last
Friday. The squad of players for Thursday's game returned to Chadwell Heath
on Monday while Bilic has remained in Cork as the remaining senior players
arrive for their own start to pre-season.
Westley will be in the dugout on Thursday but Bilic will fly back to London
to watch on as his team begin their European adventure at the Boleyn Ground.
Westley explained: "First of all I'd like to welcome the new manager and his
staff to the Club. When there was a change in management at the end of last
season and we knew that we had qualified for Europe, we couldn't just sit
back and not do anything. We had to put plans in place. "With the other
senior staff, we've done that looking towards the European fixture so early,
and great credit to those staff. It will be a privilege and an honour to
play a role on Thursday, and when you think the game will be a sell-out it
shows that it has caught the imagination of everyone. "I see my role as
helping Slaven integrate with the group and the team, making that
transition as smooth as possible and he will come back for the game on
Thursday. He's the manager. "He's very interested in seeing some of the
younger players and he's also got some senior players in this team, who will
be part of his squad that he'll want to keep a close eye on. He will be
with the team and in the dressing room and a big part of what we're trying
to do on Thursday. "We're doing all we can to support him and our job is to
get over the first qualifying round. With the manager integrating his staff
and senior players who are in Ireland, that's a win-win. We need to make the
integration as seamless as possible."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins hails Boleyn sell-out
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins cannot wait to lead West Ham United out into a sold-out Boleyn
Ground on Thursday evening. The Academy graduate has been granted the honour
of captaining the side in their UEFA Europa League first qualifying round
first leg clash with FC Lusitans. With not a seat to be had, the centre-back
says the Hammers' return to continental competition at the start of the
historic Farewell Boleyn season will be a memorable occasion. "I'm hugely
excited, as playing in Europe is massive," the No5 confirmed. "We all want
to play on the top stage, playing against teams from different countries,
different cultures, it can only improve you as a player and develop you, so
we are all really excited, for the youngster it's an opportunity. "There are
35,000 people coming to the match. Not many other teams would sell that many
tickets for a Europa League game. "It's a cliché but we are taking each game
as it comes. This is the Europa League and is a competition we want to do
well in. We are looking forward to Thursday, to starting the season well
"This is the last season at Upton Park, so we want to send it off in the
best way possible and the Europa League is the start of it."
Tomkins dismissed any suggestion that returning to action just 39 days after
the end of the 2014/15 season will place added pressure on the West Ham
squad. Instead, the Essex-born player says he and his teammates are
relishing competition football at a time of year when they would normally be
flying to far-flung destinations for pre-season training camps and friendly
matches. The defender will lead a team that includes a smattering of senior
stars, including Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate, alongside a number of the
Club's outstanding young professionals. "It's definitely a bonus to be
getting that competitiveness so early in year," he confirmed. "To have a
team which is a mix between seniors and youngsters is brilliant for the
lads. "For the youngsters to play in such a big game is massive for their
development. Us seniors will try to help them along, as it's brilliant to
play in these kind of matches."
New manager Slaven Bilic will be observing from the stand as Tomkins and the
Europa League first qualifying round squad concentrate on beating the
Andorran Primera Divisio runners-up. The Croatian has asked Academy Manager
Terry Westley to take the team on Thursday, but the defender knows the new
boss will be watching proceedings carefully. "At the minute, the Gaffer is
training with the other group in Cork and the lads are saying how good
training is," Tomkins confirmed. "All good managers have that presence. As
soon as they come into the room you can hear a pin drop at times and that is
the kind of presence he has got. "I have met him myself briefly and he's
really excited to be involved with us this year, he has stated that in the
press. I'm looking forward to working with him. "The manager is someone who
has made a great name for himself here. The fans loved him and he will be
warmly introduced to everyone on Thursday. "We are all looking forward to
working with him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Europa League live on whufc.com!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that Thursday's UEFA Europa League
clash with FC Lusitans will be streamed live on whufc.com!
Supporters all over the world will be able to enjoy exclusive coverage of
the Hammers' first European match in nine years, completely FREE of charge
on the Official Website, brought to you by the Club's principal partners
Betway. The broadcast of the first qualifying round first leg meeting with
the Andorran club will begin at 7.30pm, enabling fans everywhere to enjoy
the build-up at a sold-out Boleyn Ground. With new manager Slaven Bilic also
set to be introduced to the crowd shortly before kick-off, the worldwide
Claret and Blue Army will be able to be part of the start of the historic
Farewell Boleyn season. Commentary will be provided by experienced UEFA
commentator Rob Daly, with expert analysis from former Hammers winger Stuart
Slater.
West Ham United Managing Director Angus Kinnear said he was delighted that
the Club's wider fanbase would be able to join 35,000 fans inside the
stadium in embarking on what will be a memorable 2015/16 campaign. "Everyone
at the Club has been bowled over by the amazing interest and enthusiasm
shown by supporters for what promises to be an emotional, unforgettable
season, starting with our UEFA Europa League visit of FC Lusitans" said
Kinnear. "Ever since the draw was made, we have been inundated with
enquiries about tickets from fans all over the world, and to completely sell
out the Boleyn Ground just shows what a special group our supporters are.
"For those unable to attend in person, we were determined to make sure our
fans were able to enjoy the game and, thanks to the backing of our principal
partner Betway, they will be able to do so on whufc.com, completely free of
charge. "A year from now we will be moving to our new Stadium and the
support for this fixture only reconfirms our confidence that we will be
roared on by 54,000 fans when we get there."
The Club's new digital platform was re-launched in February 2015, providing
users with a modern, fully-responsive website fit for a leading Barclays
Premier League club. By visiting whufc.com regularly, fans can enjoy
breaking news, views and the very latest exclusive behind-the-scenes
content, including free West Ham TV for all.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley reveals Europa League line-up
WHUFC.com
The past, present and future will all be evident as West Ham United return
to European football at a sold-out Boleyn Ground on Thursday evening. The
Hammers kick-off the final season at their historic home by hosting Andorran
side FC Lusitans in the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round – the
Club's first European tie in nine years. Westley – taking the team on the
night at the request of new manager Slaven Bilic, who will watch from the
stands – revealed that 16-year-old Reece Oxford, 18-year-old Lewis Page and
summer signing Darren Randolph will be handed first-team debuts alongside
captain James Tomkins and fellow first-team stars Diafra Sakho, Morgan
Amalfitano, Matt Jarvis, Joey O'Brien and Mauro Zarate. Centre-back Reece
Burke and midfielder Diego Poyet will also be involved as West Ham embark on
an eleven-month Farewell Boleyn season in front of 35,000 fans, and Westley
says his players are relishing the experience. "This match is a vital
ingredient for their progression and that's all they crave – an opportunity
to play in this sort of match," Westley explained. "The team will be Darren
Randolph in goal, Joey O'Brien, James Tomkins as captain, Reece Burke who
has played the last five games in the Premier League, and a young Under-21
left-back Lewis Page, who we like. "In front of them will be Morgan
Amalfitano, Matt Jarvis, Diego Poyet and Reece Oxford at 16 years of age,
and up front Mauro Zarate and Diafra Sakho.
West Ham return to action just 39 days after the 2014/15 season ended at
Newcastle United, but Westley insists the Hammers are fresh, fit and
prepared for the challenge of facing a virtually unknown opponent in the
Andorran Primera Divisio runners-up. "The Club has been very pro-active and
the senior management team and myself as a coach have put the plans in place
for Europe and decided which players came back earlier and which ones
didn't," he explained. "We looked at players who have had injuries and
hadn't taken part in the latter part of last season and those who hadn't
played 15 first-team games and put a group together to report back on 22
June. "We had ten days to prepare for the game, while the work they were
sent home with for the summer was meant to keep them fit, so it was all put
in place to make it an easier transition when a new manager was put in
place. "We had a training camp and pre-season organised and it's worked
well. A group went over to Cork to prepare for this game and has flown back,
while the rest of the senior players have gone away with Slaven to prepare
for the start of the Premier League season."
While Westley will sit in the dugout, Bilic has been involved in the
planning for the Europa League opener since his return to east London three
weeks ago, and the Academy Manager expects the new boss to receive a
terrific welcome when he is introduced to the crowd on Thursday. "We've got
a match in front of 35,000 people who cannot wait to see the team, have not
seen European football for nearly ten years and cannot wait to see Slaven,"
he confirmed. "Slaven will be here, he has been with the team in Cork so he
knows the players and we have spoken about the team, so it's very much his
first game too. "There will be a full house and I think the reception Slaven
will get will be huge, even bigger than the one he or anyone else expects.
There is a really good atmosphere around the Club at the moment and I think
the place will be jumping."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham: Slaven Bilic to watch Lusitans Europa tie from stand
BBC.co.uk
Europa League first qualifying round: West Ham v Lusitans
Venue: Upton Park Date: Thursday, 2 July
Kick-off: 19:45 BST Coverage: Live radio commentary (UK only) on BBC London
94.9 and report on BBC Sport website
New West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic will not be in charge of the team
for Thursday's Europa League qualifier, with academy boss Terry Westley
naming the team to face Andorra's Lusitans. Bilic replaced Sam Allardyce
last month but will only be in the stands for the sell-out game at Upton
Park. The 46-year-old Croat will be introduced to the crowd on the pitch.
Westley has already named his team for the first leg, 40 days after the end
of the 2014-15 Premier League season. Several first-team regulars including
defender James Tomkins, midfielders Morgan Amalfitano and Matt Jarvis and
striker Diafra Sakho will start. West Ham, who finished 12th in the Premier
League under Allardyce last season, reached Europe through the Fair Play
League. They were awarded a place in the first qualifying round before
former Hammers defender Bilic was appointed. Former Luton and Derby manager
Westley said plans were put in place for the first qualifying round tie
before Bilic's arrival. "You find you're in Europe so someone has to put a
plan together," Westley, 55, added. "We've had to be proactive to put a plan
together very quickly as we didn't know whether we would be in Europe until
after the last game. 'We knew what the group would consist of. "It was to
make a smooth transition for when the manager was put in place."
Westley has been working with the squad available for Thursday's game for
the past 10 days. Highly-rated youngsters Reece Burke, Reece Oxford and
Lewis Page joined up with some senior players who missed the end of the
campaign through injury. The return leg against Lusitans, who finished
second in Andorra's top flight last season, takes place on 9 July. Lusitans,
founded in 1999, have competed in qualifying for the Champions League and
Europa League but have yet to win a European game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Lusitanos preview: Hammers begin Europa League qualifying
campaign
Last Updated: 01/07/15 7:16pm
SSN
West Ham begin their 2015/16 campaign on Thursday evening when they host FC
Lusitanos in the first leg of their Europa League qualifier.
The Hammers enter in the first qualifying round by virtue of topping the
Fair Play League, and host the Andorran side in their first European tie in
nine years. New boss Slaven Bilic will not be taking the reins for the first
time, but will watch from the stands as academy manager Terry Westley takes
charge on Thursday. West Ham face a long road to reach the group stage of
the competition – if they see off Lusitanos over two legs they'll face two
more qualifying rounds before a final play-off to enter the competition
proper.
Team news
Westley has already revealed his team for Thursday evening's encounter, and
the Hammers have a mixture of youth and experience in their starting XI. New
signing Darren Randolph makes his debut in goal for the hosts, with
youngsters Lewis Page and Reece Oxford also handed first-team debuts. Diafra
Sakho and Mauro Zarate lead a strong attack, while James Tomkins will
captain the side from the centre of defence.
Opta facts
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between an English and an
Andorran side.
West Ham are making their first foray in to Europe since 2006-07, when they
got knocked out of the UEFA Cup at the first round stage against Palermo.
West Ham have failed to find the net in each of their last four European
matches.
FC Lusitanos' previous record in European qualifiers is W0 D1 L7; scoring
just four goals and conceding 33.
Lusitanos have conceded at least five goals in all four of their previous
European qualifiers away from home.
Just one of the 46 European qualifying matches played by an Andorran side
since 2008/09 has seen them pick up a victory.
Betting
West Ham are just 1/100 to kick off their Europa League campaign with a
victory over rank outsiders FC Lusitanos. 4-0 and 5-0 are consider the most
likely scorelines in favour of the Hammers, who are considered 50/1 chances
to win the competition, the same price as their Andorran visitors are just
to win on the night. Diafra Sakho is the 9/4 favourite in the first
goalscorer market followed by Mauro Zarate at 5/2, while Alfi Conteh is
rated the visitors' biggest threat at 18/1 to net first.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tonks to lead young West Ham side into Europe
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 1st July 2015
By: Staff Writer
James Tomkins will lead West Ham United as captain for the first time when
FC Lusitanos visit Upton Park on Thursday evening. The 25-year-old central
defender has been handed the role ahead of West Ham's first sojourn into
European competition for the first time in eight years. Tomkins will lead an
extremely young team against the Andorran side, in front of a capacity crowd
at the Boleyn Ground. Howver a number of established first first team
players - including Diafra Sakho, Matt Jarvis and Joey O'Brien - will also
be involved.
Although Slaven Bilic will be present at the ground the team will be led by
new Academy director Terry Westley, who recently ousted club legend Tony
Carr from the post. Speaking this morning, Westley admitted that his team
had been put together fairly hastily. "We've had to be proactive to put a
plan together very quickly as we didn't know whether we would be in Europe
until after the last game," he said. "Our preparations in Cork have gone
very well. We've got some very exciting young players coming through. Lewis
Page and Reece Oxford will get their opportunities tomorrow. "Blooding young
players is crucial. Lewis and Reece haven't played for the first team yet.
We've got other players on the bench too."
The confirmed starting XI for tomorrow night's game is as follows: Darren
Randolph; Joey O'Brien, James Tomkins, Reece Burke, Reece Oxford, Lewis
Page; Morgan Amalfitano, Diego Poyet, Matt Jarvis; Diafra Sakho, Mauro
Zarate.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Tomkins hails 'huge honour'
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 1st July 2015
By: Staff Writer
James Tomkins says that to captain West Ham for the first time against FC
Lusitanos tomorrow night will be "a huge honour". The 26-year-old defender
has been named skipper for the first leg of the Europa League first round
qualifying tie against FC Lusitanos of Andorra. And despite giving up his
annual holiday to do so, Tomkins admits that captaining the club in front of
a packed Boleyn crowd makes it all worthwhile. "I'm very excited to play in
Europe. It's my first time, and to be captain is obviously a huge honour,"
he told the media this morning. "Not many teams can sell out a Europa League
fixture, but we have and that's excellent. It shows the passion our fans
have for Europe. Normally I'd be on holiday, but I'd much rather be playing.
"I can't wait to get going again. As this is the last season at Upton Park
we want to make it as special as possible and the Europa League is a great
way of doing that."
Tomkins - who has been with West Ham since being spotted at the age of seven
- also revealed that he was pleased by the new managerial appointment - even
if Slaven Bilic will merely be an interested onlooker tomorrow night. "He's
obviously a very popular figure here at West Ham," said Tomkins, "and I'm
looking forward to working with him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers to stream tomorrow's game on WHTV
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 1, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
UEFA LEagueThe club has confirmed that tomorrow night's game against FC
Lusitans will be streamed live on whufc.com!
The broadcast of the first qualifying round first leg meeting with the
Andorran club will begin at 7.30pm, enabling fans everywhere to enjoy the
build-up.
Commentary will be provided by experienced UEFA commentator Rob Daly, with
expert analysis from former Hammers winger Stuart Slater.
West Ham United Managing Director Angus Kinnear said he was delighted that
the Club's wider fanbase would be able to join 35,000 fans inside the
stadium in embarking on what will be a memorable 2015/16 campaign.
"Everyone at the Club has been bowled over by the amazing interest and
enthusiasm shown by supporters for what promises to be an emotional,
unforgettable season, starting with our UEFA Europa League visit of FC
Lusitans" said Kinnear.
"Ever since the draw was made, we have been inundated with enquiries about
tickets from fans all over the world, and to completely sell out the Boleyn
Ground just shows what a special group our supporters are.
"For those unable to attend in person, we were determined to make sure our
fans were able to enjoy the game and, thanks to the backing of our principal
partner Betway, they will be able to do so on whufc.com, completely free of
charge.
"A year from now we will be moving to our new Stadium and the support for
this fixture only reconfirms our confidence that we will be roared on by
54,000 fans when we get there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Europa league game could yet be screened live
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 30, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Negotiations are said to ongoing whether Thursday night's Europa League game
against will be televised LIVE on TV. West Ham Media officer Rob Pritchard
was asked on social media on Tuesday night whether Thursday's game will be
broadcast LIVE on TV he replied: "Discussions are ongoing. We will announce
as soon as confirmed on official platforms" BT Sport won the UK TV rights
for both UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League football, following a
tender process in which BT won the exclusive live broadcast rights after
paying £897 million to televise all 351 matches from both tournaments. The
rights run for three seasons from 2015/16. The match sold out today to
35,000 West Ham fans but many more are desperate to watch the Hammers first
game in Europe for nine years.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven in stands for Lusitans!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 1, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Academy manager Terry Westley (right) will take charge of the team for
tomorrow night's Europa Cup clash against Lusitans. Slave Bilic was expected
to take the team against the Andorran league runners-up in the first leg of
the first qualifying round but he is currently in Ireland, where he is
overseeing a training camp with some of the club's first-team players.
But according to national reports he will return for the tie at Upton Park
but it will be Westley who is in charge in the dugout. The lineup will be
made up of a mixture of first-team players and under-21s. Bilic is expected
to watch from the stands. Westley said: "When there was a change in
management at the end of last season and we knew that we had qualified for
Europe [via the Fair Play League], we couldn't just sit back and not do
anything. We had to put plans in place. " It will be a privilege and an
honour to play a role on Thursday and when you think the game will be a
sellout, it shows that it has caught the imagination of everyone. "I see my
role as helping Slaven integrate with the group and the team, making that
transition as smooth as possible and he will come back for the game on
Thursday. He's the manager. "He's very interested in seeing some of the
younger players and he's also got some senior players in this team, who will
be part of his squad that he'll want to keep a close eye on. He will be with
the team and in the dressing room and a big part of what we're trying to do
on Thursday. "We're doing all we can to support him and our job is to get
over the first qualifying round. With the manager integrating his staff
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG: "This is a fantastic moment for everybody"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 1, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
David Gold has hailed tomorrow evening (Thurs) as a massive moment for the
co owners and fans – particularly those who have never enjoyed a European
night under the Boleyn lights.
And although Lusiantos are hardly the strongest opposition in the world he
believes a sell-out crowd is a triumph of hope and optimism for the West Ham
faithful. He said:"It's a fantastic moment particularly for all of those
youngsters and other fans who have never been here before. It's a special
moment for David and myself as we have never been involved in European
football. It will be a special night for us both. "The fans have clearly
made this an even by snapping up every ticket. There really is a new air
around the club and we are looking to get a big result."Although Lusiantos
are hardly a world power we will treat them with respect as they will want
to make an impression on what they will see as very big opposition." Looking
ahead to the Premier League campaign he said:"I believe West Ham are at the
start of something very big – we want the big five looking over their
shoulders and saying: "Watch it West Ham are coming for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Oxford to break Hammers 93 year old record
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 1, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Young Hammer Reece Oxford will enter the West Ham record books as the
youngest ever first team player at 16 years and 198 days when he takes to
the field tomorrow in the Europa League first leg tie. Oxford will beat the
previously record set 93 years ago when Billy Williams debuted against
Blackpool on 6th May 1922. Oxford signed his first professional contract
earlier this season, snubbing interest from many of the Premier League's big
names. The central defender has been likened to Rio Ferdinand and has been
tipped to be a future England international.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic's decision to watch West Ham's Europa League opener from stands
defended by academy boss
Evening STandard
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Published: 01 July 2015 Updated: 14:14, 01 July 2015
New West Ham coach Slaven Bilic will watch the club's opening Europa League
game against Andorran side FC Lusitans from the stands, a decision that has
been defended by academy manager Terry Westley. The Hammers will play
Lusitans in the first-leg of their first qualifying round tie at the Boleyn
Ground on Thursday after being awarded a place in the Europa League for
topping the Premier League Fair Play table last season. Bilic - who was
confirmed as the east London side's new manager in early June - has spent
the past week in Ireland overseeing a training camp with the squad. Players
involved in the game against Lusitans returned to London on Tuesday while
Bilic stayed behind to continue working with senior members of the squad,
although he is expected to fly back to watch the team's Europa League
opener. With Westley filling in on Bilic's behalf, the academy manager has
defended the former Croatia coach's decision to delay taking charge of his
first game at Upton Park despite a sell-out crowd expected on Thursday. "You
find you're in Europe so someone has to put a plan together," he said.
"We've had to be proactive to put a plan together very quickly as we didn't
know whether we would be in Europe until after the last game "We knew what
the group would consist of. It was to make a smooth transition for when the
manager was put in place." Although he will not be in the dugout for the
game against Lusitans, Bilic revealed he wanted the team to do well in the
Europa League. However, the 46-year-old admitted he would not risk the club
having a poor start to the Premier League season as a result of their
European commitments.
The Hammers will play Arsenal in their opening match of the new domestic
campaign at the Emirates Stadium on August 8
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic: We are hungry for Europa League despite early
start
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 01 July 2015 Updated: 11:40, 01 July 2015
Shirley Austin has seen 10 managers come and go at West Ham during 35 years
working in the players' restaurant. So what does she think about manager
No11 — Slaven Bilic "I liked him when he was a player here," says Shirley.
"He was popular, considerate. He even gave me one of his Croatia shirts — I
still have it somewhere." Time will tell if Bilic, a West Ham centre-half
from 1996-97, will be as popular this time. The 46-year-old has little time
to make sure his feet are comfortably under the table. Bilic's first match
in charge is tomorrow, when West Ham host Andorran side FC Lusitans in the
first qualifying round of the Europa League — and he is excited about the
challenges ahead. "We will treat the Europa League with respect," says
Bilic. "It's great for the club, great for the fans, great for the players —
everybody. "We have to start very early, though, and we won't jeopardise our
preparation for the start of the Premier League on August 8. We have to be
careful. We are favourites against Lusitans and it will be a good chance for
some who do not play regularly — and some youngsters. "We are hungry for
European nights, especially at Upton Park, but we must be very careful not
to call upon players who played so many games last season. It would maybe be
good at the start of the season but by the end it would be totally negative.
We are going to find the balance."
Bilic spent the weekend assessing part of his squad during a camp in Ireland
which involved a mixture of development and senior players. Most of the rest
of the squad resumed training this week and Bilic expects all to be at peak
fitness in time for the opening match in the Premier League, at Arsenal.
The FA Cup holders strengthened this week by signing goalkeeper Petr Cech
from Chelsea and more arrivals will follow before the season kicks off.
"It's a very difficult start but, on the other hand, it is good," says
Bilic. "This League is well known for the fact that there are no easy games
here. "Our first three away games are Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester
City. Our first three home games are Leicester, Bournemouth and Newcastle
which are also difficult — but perhaps promising. "I'm happy. We have a
great game with which to start — Arsenal away — and history says it is
better to play them now than November. "It is not extremely difficult, it is
not extremely light. It could be better but this is the Premier League and
sooner or later we have to play all the teams twice." Since retiring as a
player, Bilic is best known for leading Croatia to the quarter-finals of
Euro 2008 and he has also managed three clubs, Besiktas in Turkey being his
last.
Bilic is a manager who embraces the modern game yet you sense it is
tradition and history which really matter to him. "It brought back good
memories, coming back to Chadwell Heath after all that time," says Bilic
(right). "Shirley is still here — unbelievable! It is a lot different to 20
years ago. It is good — very traditional, it's got something and I like
that.
"You have to find the balance between the stuff you need in modern football
like sports science but also it is important not to lose touch with football
— the smell of the pitch, even the canteen. "My over-riding emotion now is
excitement. This is a great League and this is my club, a great club. Don't
get me wrong. I enjoyed my two years in Turkey immensely — I can only
imagine that this will be like it was there. "After Besiktas, though, this
is the place I wanted to be and I'm so glad, so proud — I can't wait."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
TV / Live stream update - West Ham vs FC Lusitans
by WHUFCTV.com on July 1st, 2015
West Ham may only be playing little known Andorran side FC Lusitans on
Thursday night, but the match at Upton Park is already a sell-out The
impressive ticket sales along with thousands of fans asking the club (and
us) if the game is being show live, has caused some late panic at Upton Park
as the club attempt to get the game shown live to fans who can't make it to
Upton Park on Thursday evening. Reports emerged late last night that claim
talks are ongoing between the club and a television broadcaster and
television broadcaster BT Sport, to try and get the game shown live on tele.
But WHUFCTV.com understands that although BT Sport now own the rights to
televise all 351 matches from both the Europa League and Champions League
competitions ?from 2015/16, the rights to the first qualifying round belong
to the home side.
Also, the ever reliable @ExWHUemployee has revealed to us that the club are
attempting to have Thursday's game against ?FC Lusitans broadcast live on
the club's official website. Ex confirmed that there has been discussions at
the club to have the game show on TV, but this is now believed to be
unlikely unless a TV broadcaster realises that the demand for the game is
extremely high.
An announcement either way is expected from the club today (Wednesday) to
let fans who can't make it to The Boleyn Ground on Thursday night know if
they will be able to watch the game.
If all else fails, you can listen to the game live on BBC London 94.9.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus
Thursday, July 2
Daily WHUFC News - II 2nd July 2015
Lusitans land in London
WHUFC.com
FC Lusitans aim to make the most of their opportunity of playing in front of
a sell-out Boleyn Ground crowd on Thursday night. The Andorrans are more
used to playing in front of audiences running into the hundreds rather than
thousands, but Thursday's UEFA Europa League qualifier offers them a bigger
showcase for their abilities.~ The Primera Divisao runners-up are West Ham's
first European opponents in nine years and manager Xavi Roura is determined
to show they are not just in London to make up the numbers. "We are very
excited," Roura said. "It is a very important moment for the club and the
country. We are very excited to be playing in the Europa League against such
a prestigious opponent. "We've been working hard on our preparations for
three weeks now. There were many big clubs in the draw, but we were drawn
against West Ham and that's great. We know what we're up against, we know
where we are as a team and the draw was big news for us. "It's going to be a
fantastic experience for the team – not just in terms of football but it has
so much value aside from the game. It's a scenario that will motivate us a
huge amount. "No two matches are the same, so it's difficult to compare.
They could be some similarities with the way we play compared with the
national team, but we know where are weaknesses lie and the weapons we need
to use in the team to make up for them."
One player who has performed in front of a large London crowd is the
experienced Oscar Sonejee, for whom four of his 101 Andorra caps have come
against England. He was involved as his country lost 6-0 in front of close
to 60,000 at Wembley in June 2009 and says this game represents a big
opportunity for his team. He explained: "Having that experience always
helps, and I've played in two matches here in England and two in Barcelona.
"Those matches were a great experience, and [the atmosphere will not only
help the players enjoy the match, but it should also make us more
competitive" Those thoughts were echoed by skipper Leonel Maciel, who says
he will not need to give his teammates any added motivation. "Just the fact
we're playing here is sufficient motivation in itself," he said, "As captain
I always have an encouraging word with everyone, but on this occasion I
don't think there's any need to add extra motivation."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Skipper Tonks ready for early start
WHUFC.com
On the eve of West Ham United's return to European football, Basildon-born
James Tomkins spoke of his excitement at getting the season under way. The
26-year-old Academy graduate will captain the team as they kick off their
Europa League campaign when they face Andorran outfit FC Lusitans on
Thursday evening. Speaking ahead of the Hammers first game of the new
2015/16 season, just 39 days since they last played, Tomkins welcomed the
early return to action. "Ordinarily I would be on holiday at this time of
year, getting prepared for the new season, but I'd much rather be back
playing. "I want game time because it's important for my fitness. To play a
competitive game so early is great for me. Obviously I didn't play much at
the end of last season through injury, so to be back out there is great."
Due to the quick turnaround, the matchday squad named by Academy Terry
Westley represents a mixture of experienced first team and Development Squad
players. Lewis Page and Reece Oxford are in line to make their senior
debuts while further Dev Squad members could feature from the bench.
Tomkins, a fellow Academy graduate himself, stated his pride at being chosen
as captain: "It's a massive honour to captain the side, let alone captain
the side in Europe. I'm delighted, obviously I'm one of the more experienced
players in this squad. "I'm only 26 but I'm still one of the older lads.
Lads like Reece are just 16 years old so I'm ten years older and I've got
that experience. It's a good role for me to take on in this stage of my
career. I'm looking forward to communicating with the younger lads on the
pitch and helping them through it."
The experienced central defender, who had been in superb form for the
Hammers before injury limited his game time, is relishing the prospect of
playing in front of a sell-out crowd at the Boleyn Ground. Speaking at the
pre-match press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Tomkins seemed genuinely
bowled over by the West Ham fans passion for European football. "The
atmosphere is going to be electric tomorrow. There's been a lot of talk
about how important the Europa League is to this Club. "As this is the last
season at the Boleyn Ground, it's going to be emotional but brilliant. We
want to leave this stadium in the best way we can and the Europa league is a
good way of doing that. "We're entering a new era and it's a great
opportunity for everyone to impress the new manager. We haven't had too much
time to work with him but in the time we have had, he has impressed me.
"We've had a few meetings and he seems really friendly. He's done all he can
in a short time to get us ready for the new season and he'll be about in the
dressing room tomorrow. A popular figure among fans and teammates alike,
Tomkins finished by saying that due to the phenomenal demand for tickets,
some players had even missed out. "As captain I've made sure I've got some
tickets for my family and friends but I think some of the other lads have
struggled. "I don't think anyone was expecting a sell-out but we're all
delighted that it is. We're all delighted and it's particularly good for the
younger ones making their debut, it's fantastic."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven set for Europa team talk
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Academy manager Terry Westley confirmed that new manager
Slaven Bilic will take the Hammers pre-match team talk ahead of the Europa
League tie with FC Lusitans on Thursday evening. Westley has been working
closely with the matchday squad which comprises a mixture of first team
regulars and Development Squad Academy graduates such as Lewis Page and
Reece Oxford. In Wednesday's pre-match press conference, Westley
explained: "The team is all set up. We did all our work in Cork with the
manager. With Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate up front and Morgan Amalfitano
and Matt Jarvis on the wings, we pretty much have four forwards. It gives
some indication to our attacking intent. "We don't need a huge team talk
before the game because the work has been done. The players are ready. We'll
have to get here a bit earlier due to the huge number of people that are
coming. We'll have a pre-match meeting with the manager then the players
will do the job."
Westley continued to highlight the importance of Bilic's previous experience
of European football with Turkish outfit Besiktas. While the former West
Ham United defender may have only just taken the reigns, Westley has been
impressed by the Croatians' managerial abilities. "We've spoken about the
shape of the team and the way we'd like to play. We're both happy with how
preparations have gone in Ireland and since we've been back. "Slaven knows
European football inside out. He is a very, very talented manager. He gets
to know the players he works with at previous clubs very well too."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Page excited by Boleyn debut
WHUFC.com
Lewis Page will fulfil a life-long ambition when he walks out to make his
West Ham United debut against FC Lusitans tonight. Academy Manager Terry
Westley, who will be in the dugout for the UEFA Europa League first
qualifying round first leg tie, confirmed in his pre-match press conference
that the 19-year-old left back will be in his starting XI. Page has been
with the Hammers since the age of ten and aims to make the most of the
opportunity that awaits. "It means everything to know I'll be making my
first team debut," he explains. "It's everything I dreamed of when I was
younger and to get an appearance for West Ham will be unbelievable. "When we
knew we were in Europe starting this early, all the lads were texting each
other over the summer thinking we might get a chance. "We kept ourselves fit
and we want to take the opportunity with both hands. With 35,000 fans there
it will be a great feeling – it'll be different to Rush Green, but hopefully
we will love the atmosphere and just play our football. "It's a big game for
the Club and hopefully we can get the result we want. "
Page formed part of a group of experienced and youthful players who prepared
for Thursday's sell-out game with a training camp in Ireland – training
which he says has set them up for action perfectly. He explained: "It was a
good week of preparation in Ireland. There's been a good intensity to
training, everybody looks pretty sharp and we're all looking forward to the
game. "The first team players in the group have helped us through it.
They've always been there to talk to and answer any questions we've got –
they're just a good bunch of lads.
"The new manager was watching last week and he'll be at the game tonight so
we're all trying to impress. That's the important thing, if we're all
fighting for places we'll get the best out of each other."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Get with the Programme!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United kick-off the historic Farewell Boleyn season with an 84-page
issue for the UEFA League first qualifying round first leg visit of FC
Lusitans. The 2 July clash with the Andorran Primera Divisio runners-up is
marked with a special retro cover - a feature that will remain a constant
throughout the 2015/16 campaign. The first cover sees new manager Slaven
Bilic pictured in a design that recreates that used for the November 1934
visit of Swedish club AIK Stockholm - one of the first European clubs to
visit the Boleyn Ground. Bilic pens his first manager's column inside, while
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold, captain James Tomkins and
Academy Manager Terry Westley also write exclusively for the programme. Also
inside, fans can read interviews with the Hammers' summer signings Dimitri
Payet, Pedro Obiang, Darren Randolph and Martin Samuelsen. There is the
complete lowdown on Thursday's visitors from Andorra, plus everything you
need to know about West Ham's upcoming move to the new Stadium in Stratford
and how to go about securing your seat in the Club's new 54,000-capacity
home.
A new Farewell Boleyn section features emotional interviews with former
Hammers, fans and staff, classic images and more. As for the contributors,
Ian 'Moose' Abrahams recalls a surreal European night with David Cross,
while Ken Dyer, Matty Lawless and David Croft also pen their thoughts ahead
of what promises to be an unforgettable eleven months. The first issue of
the 2015/16 programme is available for just £3.50 in and around the Boleyn
Ground this evening, or you can order online here. To make sure you don't
miss a single issue of the Farewell Boleyn campaign, order a subscription
for just £90 here.
Alternatively, the Digital Official Programme will be available to download
to your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, and Android devices alongside PC and Mac
from 9am on matchday.
The Digital Programme comes with all the content you would expect from the
print edition, as well as exclusive video footage, meaning fans from all
over the globe can get ahead of the action and read their Programme and
enjoy exclusive video interviews and highlights.
If you live overseas, that means you can download your Digital Programme
before kick-off, with the game being televised live in a large number of
countries across the world. The print edition will be available to buy in
and around the Boleyn Ground on matchday as usual, packed with all the usual
exclusive content.
The Digital Programme offers supporters a number of great additional
features, including:
Easy to use page-turning technology
Simple content navigation and skip-to-page features
Interactive content including exclusive video footage
Our programmes remember the last page you were viewing
Fans can order back-dated issues
Apple users will have all their issues hosted in one place on Newsstand for
easy access
Hammers supporters can subscribe for the whole season from just £24.99 (fans
receive all back issues) or buy individual issues for only £1.99.
The Digital Programme is available on Apple iPad and iPhone, as well as
Android and via the Pocketmags app on kindle fire and Blackberry Playbook.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Graeme Howlett, of KUMB.com, looks ahead to Thursday's game against FC
Lusitans...
That West Ham United have been able to completely sell out the Boleyn Ground
for Thursday evening's Europa League tie against Andorran minnows FC
Lusitans is a clear indication of the fans' desire to make the most of the
limited time remaining at our famous old ground. Well, that and the
opportunity to see our new manager Slaven Bilic for the first time since he
was appointed, of course!
Slav will be at the ground, we understand, although he has delegated
management duties to Academy chief Terry Westley - who has been working with
the squad at their Irish training camp - for the night.
In some ways the club have been extraordinarily lucky that a wild-card entry
into European competition has coincided with the Irons' final season in
Upton Park. Nonetheless, the Board should be congratulated for delivering a
sensible pricing structure which ensures not only that the ground is full,
but that entry is genuinely affordable for all.
Although a number of first team players only returned to training this week,
the Hammers will still be fielding a reasonably strong side; certainly one
that should be of sufficient quality to see off the challenge of a team who
have been routinely thumped in the first qualifying round in each of their
previous four Europa League campaigns.
Should West Ham manage to overcome the challenge of Lusitans as expected
(although as Hammers we know NEVER to take anything for granted!) there will
be little chance for Bilic's boys to rest on their laurels, as the second
round commences just seven days after the first round, second leg in
Andorra.
We already know that either Birkirkara of Malta or Armenia's Ulisses await,
but continued progress in the competition will ensure games come thick and
fast once the Premier League campaign - which kicks off the weekend of 8/9
August - begins.
Should West Ham make safe passage through the second qualifying round, they
will play the second leg of the third qualifying round just 72 hours before
the Premier League season-opener at Arsenal. And the final Europa League
play-off round is scheduled for 20 and 27 August - each three days ahead of
two very important early-season top-flight clashes with Bournemouth (home)
and Liverpool (away).
That means August alone could result in the Hammers playing no less than
SEVEN fixtures in 24 days - so it's no surprise that David Sullivan and his
recruitment team are looking to tie up as many deals as early as possible
this summer, with view to a potentially lengthy and arduous European
campaign to follow.
The early qualifying rounds of the competition have unfortunately arrived
too soon for one or two of the club's most recent arrivals to be eligible.
One who the Hammers could certainly do with is Slaven Bilic's latest
acquisition, Dimitri Payet from Marseille.
At 28, the 15-times capped French winger should be at his peak and whilst
some eyebrows were raised at the (undisclosed) eight-figure transfer fee
(except that bit), West Ham should be acquiring a player who will prove to
be worth every penny.
Payet's recent record is quite exceptional; it's already well-documented
that he created 135 goalscoring opportunities last season, more apparently
than any other player in the top European leagues. That should be music to
the ears of Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia, who were often
bereft of service during the last campaign (when not being asked to provide
it themselves).
Those 135 chances converted into 17 actual assists in Ligue 1 in 2014/15,
which were complemented by seven goals - a decent return for a player
charged with creating, rather than completing goalscoring opportunities.
Payet followed goalkeeper Darren Randolph, midfielder Pedro Obiang and
full-back Stephen Hendrie into the club already this summer. And according
to whufc.com's Boleyn Insider, two further new signings are set to arrive
imminently. It's going to be a busier summer than usual at the Boleyn...
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'This is why we will sell-out the new Stadium'
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet says a sold-out UEFA UEFA Europa League first qualifying round
tie against Andorran side FC Lusitans illustrates the sheer size of West Ham
United. Despite the visitors being virtual unknowns until the draw was made
and bringing just a handful of fans themselves, the Claret and Blue Army
have snapped up nearly 35,000 tickets for the game. Midfielder Poyet, who
has been named in Terry Westley's starting XI for the match, believes the
loyalty and commitment shown by West Ham fans ensures they will sell-out the
Club's new 54,000-seater stadium in Stratford a year from now. "It says a
lot about the type of fans we have at the Club," he told West Ham TV, who
will be screening Thursday's tie exclusive, live and FREE coverage on
whufc.com. "I have watched a lot of Europa League games last season in the
main competition and they weren't even sold out, and we've got our first
qualifier and it's already sold out. Massive thanks to all the fans for
coming to support us. "It shows that the new Stadium is going to be sold out
every week. Some people were saying 'maybe it will, maybe it won't' but 100
per cent it will sell-out. It's 2 July and we are filling up the stadium and
it's already been sold-out for a couple of days. "It's great support for
everyone and makes the game ten times more exciting for all the players and
for everyone involved and it's a great game to be part of."
For Poyet himself, the game represents an opportunity to impress those
35,000 fans inside the Boleyn Ground and thousands more watching on
whufc.com around the world, while new manager Slaven Bilic will be observing
from the stands. After impressing for Uruguay at the recent FIFA U-20 World
Cup finals in New Zealand, the 20-year-old holding midfielder is keen to
kick-on again for the Hammers. "I'm really excited for the game," he
confirmed. "I obviously had a really short break on holiday because of the
Under-20 World Cup, but I feel good. "We're already prepared for the game
and we know as much as we can know about the opposition and we're ready."
So, what does Diego and his teammates know about FC Lusitans, who finished
second in Andorra's Primera Divisio last season. "I think they will be
really organised and try to keep it as tight as possible," he explained,
revealing that the squad has watched footage of their opponents in action.
"They are good from set-pieces, so that's something we will have to watch
out for when we play them. "They are not going to be intimidated by us, but
the only thing that might intimidate them is the big crowd. They have got
some international players, but others might not be so used to playing in
such a big crowd, so we will use that to our advantage. "We have home
advantage in the first leg and obviously want to take a good score when we
go there next week."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United v FC Lusitans
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 1st July 2015
By: Preview Percy
It's time to pay our first visit of the season to the Avram Grant Olympic
Rest Home For The Bewildered to see how much Preview Percy knows about
Andorra. Not much as it happens...
Hang on a moment, I've only just nodded off after our last game and you wake
me up for this?
Ok apparently we have qualified for the Thursday Night League by virtue of
us coming top of the "Good Egg" league, a concept whose worth can be gauged
by the fact that Liverpool, with one of the worst teams in history for
diving, were also hovering around the top towards the end of the season.
This has left us with a place in Europe, meaning that some of the
meaningless early season matches against lesser opposition have been
replaced by slightly more meaningful matches against lesser opposition.
So, after a draw that used three of my kind of brandy glasses and a bit of
messing about with the fixture dates we find ourselves drawn at home against
FC Lusitans of Andorra. Kick-off is 7:45pm and the rearranged fixture date
means we miss the tube strike. Which is nice.
As far as I can recall from my O-Level Geography (note to kids - O Levels
were sort of like GCSEs would be if you actually had to know stuff to get
them) Andorra is a small bit of land parked between a Pyrenee or two that
both France and Spain forgot to divvy up when they got round to drawing up
the border all those years ago. It's an odd little place which is co-ruled
by two princes, one of whom is always whoever is president of France at the
time and the other is whoever happens to be the Bishop of Urgell at the
time.
As you'd expect then there's a strong Franco-Spanish influence to the whole
place. There is, however, a third major influence on the country in the form
of England's oldest ally. There is a sizeable part of the population with a
Portuguese background which is a bit odd considering how far away it is.
However, it is this influence that is relevant to our opponents in this
first qualifying round. The club name is derived from Lusitania which is the
ancient Roman name for the bit of the Iberian peninsula that contains
Portugal. The kit is based on that of the Portuguese national side whilst
the club crest contains elements of that used by the Portuguese FA.
So what do we know of our opponents? Well at this point I'd usually send out
the work experience girl with an inappropriate number of rings through her
lips to go and find stuff out but it being the close season she's nowhere to
be found so I'm doing the legwork myself. The first thing to note is the
Andorran league is a little bit like the Welsh league insofar as the best
team in the country (FC Andorra) actually plays in the Spanish football
system in the same way as Swansea & Cardiff regularly hop across the Severn
Bridge. So Lusitans can be thought of in the same breath as Airbus UK, Bala
Town and of course the clumsily-monikered The New Saints, whose name derives
from the fact that they didn't want to change the initials when they removed
the sponsor's name from the official name of the club.
One of the things that is odd about football over there is that the stadia
are all owned by the Andorran FA, who decide who is going to play where at
the start of the season. Spurs would, I am sure, have complained about the
illegal state aid this clearly represents but for the fact that a) Andorra
isn't part of the EU so they can do what they like; and b)Spurs are too
occupied with counting the millions they have saved by getting Boris and
Haringay to pay for all those tedious infrastructure improvements that
usually accompany planning applications of the size of their new ground.
Lusitans play in the Andorran "Primera Divisio" which currently comprises 8
clubs. They stretch this out to a 20 match season by splitting the league in
two after everyone has played everyone else home and away with the top four
playing for the title and the bottom four playing to stay in the league.
They were actually Champions in 2011/12 and 2012/13 but their European
pedigree can be gauged by the fact that their inaugural so-called Champions
League "run" consisted of a 9-1 defeat to the then Maltese champions
Valetta. The pinnacle of their forays into European competition is probably
the 2-2 first leg home draw against the Faroes outfit EB/Streymur in the
Champions League in 2013. In fact they were 2-0 up in this match and missed
the spot-kick that would have taken them 3-0 up. Sadly for the Andorrans
(or, if you will, "Portuguese" to give them their nickname) they were unable
to hold onto the lead and the Faroese added a 5-1 win to the first leg draw
to send them out. Their 4th place finish in 2013/14 saw them fall outside
the European qualifying places but their second place last term saw them
qualify for this tie.
Their most famous player is probably, no, make that definitely, a chap by
the name of Oscar Sonejee who is in his second spell with the club having
played at a slightly higher level with the aforementioned FC Andorra, as
well as for a number of other clubs within the Primera Divisio. He is the
country's most capped player, having broken the ton a couple of weeks ago in
Andorra's 1-0 defeat by Equatorial Guinea. Some may remember him getting
into a bit of an argument with Wayne Rooney in a Euro qualifier a few years
back. There again most won't. The list of people who have gotten into an
argument with Wayne Rooney is hardly an exclusive one after all. Sonerjee
has cult hero status in Mumbai of all places, something that can be
attributed to his Indian heritage.
They also boast a Sierra Leonean international in the form of Alfi
Conteh-Lacalle. ACL (as probably nobody calls him given that the initials
are reminiscent of a nasty ligament problem) is in fact a product of the
Barcelona youth system having been born in the Catalonian capital. He was
actually capped by the Spaniards at U19 Level before throwing his hat into
the ring with Sierra Leone for whom he now has, er, one cap. Since exiting
Barcelona, "Knee Injury" has hawked himself around the lower leagues of a
number of countries including Spain, Greece and Hungary where Honved were
the best known of his clubs to date.
After that I'll admit I'm struggling. If this were an FA Cup match I'd no
doubt take great delight in being able to let you know which one of the
opposition was the postman that it is compulsory for all part–time squads to
contain but background details on the players is a little thin on the ground
if truth be told. Mr Sonarjee works in insurance when he's not chasing a bag
of leather about a patch of grass but that's about it. Ok this isn't very
helpful but you try finding out stuff about a country whose main claim to
fame is its duty-free status.
Us? It'll be an unusual team on the pitch. A mixture of one or two old lags
plus a few youngsters to do the running about. We have of course said
farewell to Mr Allardyce since the last woke me up to write one of these
things. Many years ago I wrote something in these pages along the lines that
I didn't want him anywhere near the club. Now he's gone I would say that he
did a job in getting us up. I know it was through the playoffs but he was a
little unlucky that season to see Reading come from nowhere, get outplayed
every week and still win. Their current position shows what a blip that was.
However, it was difficult to warm to the chap, especially as nothing ever
seemed to be his fault. The time was right for him to go so thanks & goodbye
it is.
So it's hello to Slaven Bilic as our new boss. He has already made the right
noises about the type of football he wants his teams to play so hopefully
we'll be a bit more pleasing to the eye over the next, well ten months at
least. However, Biic will apparently be watching this one from the stands
leaving Academy boss Terry Westley in charge dugout-wise.
I wouldn't expect to see too many of our new signings on display meaning
that we'll have to wait for tougher opposition before we see Pedro Obiang
and Dimitri Payet enter the fray. On the other hand it wouldn't be a
surprise to see Darren Randolph take a bow 'twixt the sticks. The rest of
the team has been reported as consisting of O'Brien, Burke, Page,
Amalfitano, Jarvis, Poyet (not Payet), Oxford, Zarate and Sakho. Zarate's
presence suggests a clean slate approach, which will please those who
believe that he wasn't given a fair crack of the whip under the previous
regime.
At this point its traditional to locate £2.50 from somewhere within the
environs of the Avram Grant Olympic Rest Home For The Bewildered and place
it on a prediction but frankly the odds offered by Winstone's The Turf
Accountant for a West Ham win were so ludicrous you'd have to be the Greek
Government to bother placing a wager.
We'll win of course and my main hopes are that a) we somehow manage to
escape pre-season without a player coming down with the traditional serious
injury; and b) the team manages to put on a bit of a show for the 35,000
supporters at home plus the 500 or so popping over there for the return leg.
Enjoy the game!
When last we met: You're joking, right? Ok, since you ask we have never
played them. Alright?
Danger Man: Oscar Sonejee – as an Insurance Clerk he'll know all about
danger. I expect.
Referees: 1st Leg: Vadims Diretorenko (Latvia) 2nd Leg TBA. At least Mike
Riley won't have been involved in his appointment.
Daft Fact Of The Week:: As mentioned, the neighbours have had a major
influence on Andorran culture. For example, although Andorra declared war on
Germany at the start of the First World War, the French influence meant that
they didn't actually join in with any of the fighting. Then the Spanish
habit of having a mid-afternoon nap meant that they were nowhere to be seen
when the Treaty Of Versailles got signed, an omission which meant that,
technically, they remained at war with Germany until 1958. The position was
rectified when, as part of the Europe- wide celebrations in honour of Ted
Fenton's side's promotion to the top fight, all wars involving landlocked
European principalities were cancelled.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Oxford to make history
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 2nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Reece Oxford will become the youngest ever Hammer to take part in a
competitive fixture tonight when he faces FC Lusitanos at the Boleyn Ground.
At 16 years and 198 days, the 6'3" central defender will break a record held
by Leytonstone-born Billy Williams who made his debut for West Ham at the
end of the 1921/22 season, but was a whole 23 days older than Oxford when he
did so. Oxford was close to making his first team debut almost a year ago
when Sam Allardyce named him as an unused substitute for the Capital One Cup
tie against Sheffield United. However despite being involved in the match
day squad on several occasions since, he has had to wait until tonight to
make his bow. Academy boss Terry Westley, a big fan of the youngster
insisted that Oxford is ready to make his bow. "We will find out whether he
can handle the pressure of the big situation, whether he is as good as we
think he is," he said. "We won't know that with him on the bench or in the
stand. "He has an opportunity and the talking has to stop. If he is going
to be one of the best we have produced, he has to be some player, with
(James) Tomkins here and then (Frank) Lampard, (Joe) Cole, (Rio) Ferdinand
and the rest. "Where he is at his age, he has done exactly what he needs to
do."
West Ham United's Europa League qualifying clash clash with FC Lusitanos
kicks off at 7.45pm tonight. Live coverage, for those who cannot attend is
being provided by whufc.com.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan warns of Euro danger
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 2nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Kevin Nolan believes a successful run in the Europa League could make for a
difficult season - although he has urged tonight's team to fully embrace the
opportunity. Now 32 and entering the final year of his contract at the club,
Nolan is unlikely to play a major role in this season's European campaign
but has plenty of experience of doing so, having featured for Bolton in the
(now defunct) UEFA Cup during the mid-noughties. And having experienced the
additional demands required by a good run in Europe - which could
potentially account for an extra 23 games for West Ham to play this season,
should they reach the Final - Nolan is more aware than most of the
difficulties than can arise as a result. "It's going to make everything
tough but it's something that we should all embrace, " he said. "We got in
through the back door but it's something we should all embrace, something we
can learn from. "I played in the Europa for a couple of seasons with Bolton
and really enjoyed my time. There's a few lads who are going to making their
debuts in European football. It's something for them to strive for and in
years to come, for West Ham to be aiming for." And even though he won't be
involved tonight, having remained at the club's Irish training camp with
several fellow first team squad members, Nolan believes Terry Westley's
pre-announced team should have enough in the tank to see off the challenge
of FC Lusitanos. "I wish them all the best," he said. "I'm sure the boys can
get the job done for us."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let the final season commence
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 2nd July 2015
By: Graeme Howlett
That West Ham United have been able to completely sell out the Boleyn Ground
for tonight's Europa League tie against Andorran minnows FC Lusitanos is a
clear indication of the fans' desire to make the most of the limited time
remaining at our famous old ground.
Well, that and the opportunity to see our new manager Slaven Bilic for the
first time since he was appointed, of course!
Slav will be at the ground, we understand, although he has delegated
management duties to Academy chief Terry Westley - who has been working with
the squad at their Irish training camp - for the night.
In some ways the club have been extraordinarily lucky that a wild-card entry
into European competition has coincided with the Irons' final season in
Upton Park. Nonetheless, the Board should be congratulated for delivering a
sensible pricing structure which ensures not only that the ground is full,
but that entry is genuinely affordable for all.
Although a number of first team players only returned to training this week,
the Hammers will still be fielding a reasonably strong side; certainly one
that should be of sufficient quality to see off the challenge of a team who
have been routinely thumped in the first qualifying round in each of their
previous four Europa League campaigns.
Should West Ham manage to overcome the challenge of Lusitanos as expected
(although as Hammers we know NEVER to take anything for granted!) there will
be little chance for Bilic's boys to rest on their laurels, as the second
round commences just seven days after the first round, second leg in
Andorra.
We already know that either Birkirkara of Malta or Armenia's Ulisses FC
await, but continued progress in the competition will ensure games come
thick and fast once the Premier League campaign - which kicks off the
weekend of 8/9 August - begins.
Should West Ham make safe passage through the second qualifying round, they
will play the second leg of the third qualifying round just 72 hours before
the Premier League season-opener at Arsenal. And the final Europa League
play-off round is scheduled for 20 and 27 August - each three days ahead of
two very important early-season top-flight clashes with Bournemouth (home)
and Liverpool (away).
That means August alone could result in the Hammers playing no less than
SEVEN fixtures in 24 days - so it's no surprise that David Sullivan and his
recruitment team are looking to tie up as many deals as early as possible
this summer, with view to a potentially lengthy and arduous European
campaign to follow.
The early qualifying rounds of the competition have unfortunately arrived
too soon for one or two of the club's most recent arrivals to be eligible.
One who the Hammers could certainly do with is Slaven Bilic's latest
acquisition, Dimitri Payet from Marseille.
At 28, the 15-times capped French winger should be at his peak and whilst
some eyebrows were raised at the (undisclosed) eight-figure transfer fee
(except that bit), West Ham should be acquiring a player who will prove to
be worth every penny.
Payet's recent record is quite exceptional; it's already well-documented
that he created 135 goalscoring opportunities last season, more apparently
than any other player in the top European leagues. That should be music to
the ears of Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia, who were often
bereft of service during the last campaign (when not being asked to provide
it themselves).
Those 135 chances converted into 17 actual assists in Ligue 1 in 2014/15,
which were complemented by seven goals - a decent return for a player
charged with creating, rather than completing goalscoring opportunities.
Payet followed goalkeeper Darren Randolph, midfielder Pedro Obiang and
full-back Stephen Hendrie into the club already this summer. And according
to whufc.com's Boleyn Insider, two further new signings are set to arrive
imminently.
It's going to be a busier summer than usual at the Boleyn...
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham trying to sign Arsenal's Carl Jenkinson and Juventus' Angelo
Ogbonna
Last Updated: 02/07/15 12:39pm
SSN
West Ham co-chairman David Gold has confirmed the club are "working hard" to
sign Arsenal right-back Carl Jenkinson. And Sky Italia sources understand
the Hammers are also attempting to sign Angelo Ogbonna from Juventus.
Jenkinson, who has found his first-team chances at Arsenal blocked by Calum
Chambers and Hector Bellerin, spent last season on loan at West Ham and made
29 Premier League starts for them. Ogbonna, meanwhile, has been third choice
behind Stefan Lichsteiner and Giorgio Chiellini at the Old Lady. Hammers
chairman Gold has previously stated the club are keen to bring in players to
play the "West Ham way" and on Thursday he said: "We are very working hard
to try and get Carl back here "We recognise this is an important season for
us, being in Europe, and we will go the extra mile to ensure we have got the
strongest possible squad we can muster." Sky sources understand another
player West Ham are interested in is the wantaway Paris Saint-Germain
playmaker Yohan Cabaye. The 29-year-old former Newcastle midfielder has
struggled to hold down a first-team place at the French champions but it is
understood former Toon boss Alan Pardew is interested in taking Cabaye to
Crystal Palace.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold tweets good news
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 1, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
David Gold is confident Andy Carroll will soon be ready to rejoin the
action. Despite the club's record signing being unable to join the action
tomorrow night after being injured at Southampton back in the winter, the co
chairman believes the big fella will soon be back. Carroll has spent most of
the summer back at the Chadwell Heath training ground working on his knee
and core fitness. And Gold tweeted: "Andy is training nearly every day he
has great determination and will soon be ready to play. Dg,"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Young Reece told" Now gain the respect"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reece Oxford – at 16 years and 198 days old – becomes the youngest ever
hammer to make his debut in a club first team shirt against Lusiantos
tonight and has been told: "We are now going to find out whether he's as
good as we think he is." Boss for the night Terry Westley said: "We'll find
out whether Reece can handle the pressure of playing in a big situation,
whether he's as good as we think he is. "We won't find that out sitting on
the bench or in the stand. He has that opportunity. He's now got to gain the
respect. The talking can stop and he can show people what he's about. "If
he's going to be one of the best ever [academy products], he's got some way
to go. James Tomkins isn't bad, Lampard, Cole and the rest weren't bad.
"[Reece] has got a bit to do but where he is at this age – England U17s
captain – he's done what he needed to do. He's got to take that into senior
football. Questions will be answered."
Westley claimed the decision for him to take charge of the team for the
early Europa League game was made during last season – before Bilic's
arrival and regardless of the identity of Sam Allardyce's successor. He
added: "You find you're in Europe, so someone has to put a plan together.
The club have been very proactive: 'Who's involved? What players come back
early?'
'We knew what the group would consist of. It was to make a smooth transition
for when the manager was put in place. 'We've got 35,000 who can't wait to
see the team, young and old. Slaven knows the players. He's been in Cork.
It's very much his first game."
Irons team: Randolph; O'Brien, Tomkins, Burke, Page, Amalfitano, Jarvis,
Poyet, Oxford, Zarate, Sakho.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ClaretandHugh's big match coverage
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
ClaretandHugh will be at Upton Park tonight for the Europa Cup match against
Lusiantos! Rob Shepherd will be our man in the press box and will bring his
report soon after the final whistle has blown on hopefully a big victory. We
will keep those unable to watch on the live West Ham TV stream updated with
flash highlight reports throughout the 90 minutes. ClaretandHugh
congratulates the club for making the stream available when it really should
have been shown on one or other of the various sports channels. Well done to
everybody involved at WHUFC and if you aren't a member of West Ham TV make
sure you join up for the game at www.whufc.com.
It's free by the way.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Remy not for sale say Chelsea
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reports claim that Jose Mourinho has blocked a £15million Loic Remy's exit
from Chelsea. Crystal Palace, Swansea and West Ham have have been linked in
the media with the £80,000-a-week French striker but now it appears Chelsea
has had second thoughts. Remy first team chances have been limited since
joining from QPR, the arrival of Falcao on loan from Monaco is also thought
to push him further down the pecking order of strikers. Chelsea initially
said they would not listen to offers less than £15m for the 28 year old but
have staged a U-turn. Remy scored seven league goals last season despite
making just six starts. As we revealed 7 days ago, a West Ham insider
revealed to Claret and Hugh we were never seriously looking at Remy.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song continues to train with West Ham
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Alex Song continues to train with West Ham despite his loan agreement coming
to an end. Yesterday he posted a video of himself on Instragram training in
a West Ham gym with Hammers new training shorts on. The video re-enforces
the view that the 27 year old midfielder has agreed personal terms with the
Hammers and it is now just Barcelona who stand in his way of a permanent
move to West Ham on free transfer. Song is expected to undergo a final
medical within the next 48 hours and sign permanently if Barcelona agree to
terminate his contract without compensation from West Ham
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Villa agree fee with Hammers target
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Aston Villa are believed to be close to finalising a £9million move for
Lille's Idrissa Gueye who has often been linked with West Ham as a possible
summer target. Reports claim Villa have agreed a fee with the French Ligue 1
side for the 25-year-old Senegalese midfielder. He is believed to be flying
to the UK tomorrow for talks and a medical in the midlands. Gueye has been
linked with West Ham, Crystal Palace,Southampton and Marseille in the summer
but appears Villa have come in late to conclude a deal. Reports in France
last week suggested Marseille were closing in on the signing of the Senegal
international, but more money was on offer from Villa and that has turned
the player's head it has been claimed.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender: Slaven has real presence
London 24
14:30 02 July 2015 Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Hammers defender James Tomkins says that new manager Slaven Bilic will be a
great success . Jose 'The Special One' Mourinho certainly has it, Sir Alex
Ferguson had it and of course the likes of Brian Clough and Bill Shankly had
it too. Some would say former West Ham boss Sam Allardyce had it too, though
that is a matter of debate, but defender James Tomkins insists that the new
man at the helm has it as well. Presence. That is the key to success for
many of the top managers, the thing that sets them apart from the other
bosses and Tomkins believes Slaven Bilic has it in abundance, despite only
having met him for a short period of time. "I met him briefly and he is
really excited to be with us. Everyone is looking forward to working with
him and he made a great name for himself as a player here," said the
26-year-old. Slaven Bilic the new West Ham manager "At the minute he is
training with the other lads and they are all saying how good training is.
He certainly has that presence like all good managers have. When he comes
into the room, you can hear a pin drop at times." Tomkins joins a long line
of illustrious players who have captained West Ham when he wears the armband
in the Europa League clash with FC Lusitans at Upton Park tonight. And for
someone who has been at the club since the age of seven it means so much to
lead the side out. "It's a massive honour and a good role for me to try and
mature as a player and help the younger lads," said Tomkins, who established
himself as one of the first choice centre-backs last season until injury
struck near the end of the season. "I am only 26, but I am 10 years older
than Reece Oxford who is playing tonight. The atmosphere is going to be
electric and hopefully I can help the younger lads come through it." Tomkins
is an important part of the squad that are looking to progress in the Europa
League qualifying rounds, but does he envy the first-team players that are
currently showing Bilic what they can do over in Ireland? "Everyone is
looking to start well and impress the new manager," he said. "I would be
sunning myself somewhere in a normal year, but for me it is different
because I was injured towards the end of last season and I wanted to play
more games. "To have competitive games this early is great and the manager
will be watching me there." Tomkins knows the significance of this season,
West Ham's final one at the Boleyn Ground before their move to the Olympic
Stadium, and the centre-back can't wait for it to get into full swing. "It
is going to be emotional as much as it will be brilliant this season," said
Tomkins. "We need to leave the season in the best possible place and that
means in Europe as well as in the Premier League." Bilic is likely to be the
key to success this season. He is known for playing high tempo football,
looking to win the ball back early as well as play with flair, something
West Ham fans have not been used to too often under Allardyce. But winning
games and success is still vital and Tomkins and other players know that
they now need to deliver.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: Watford, Tottenham enter race to sign FC Sion striker Moussa Konate
HITC
Billy Hawkins
Watford and Tottenham want Konate, who has also been linked with West Ham
and Newcastle United. As reported by Blick, Tottenham and Watford are keen
on signing Moussa Konate this summer, and the latter team have already
opened discussions with current club FC Sion concerning his transfer.
Christian Constantin, chairman of the Swiss club, confirmed in the article
that Gino Pozzo has already visited him to talk about a potential move for
Konate this summer. He said: "The Watford president has already visited me."
Konate, 22, is a full Senegalese international with an impressive goal
record for Sion. He signed for the club last summer from FK Krasnodar, and
went on to score a prolific 22 goals in 33 games for the club, across
domestic league and cup action, as well as the Europa League. He has also
played for Genoa and Maccabi Tel Aviv in his short career, and has netted
four times for Senegal in just nine games. The 22-year-old's impressive
campaign saw him garner interest from England earlier in the summer, with
both Newcastle and West Ham linked to him. The Daily Mirror reported that
the Hammers are considering a bid to partner him up with international
teammate Diafra Sakho, whilst the Mail has indicated a long-term interest in
the forward from Newcastle.
The latest interest from the Premier League suggests that both Spurs and
Watford want to bring him to England this summer, and the Hornets appear to
be in discussions with him already.
He may be unproven in England, but a prolific goal record and young age have
made him a key transfer target. Watford are leading the race for the
forward, and it remains to be seen whether any of the other three interested
parties formalise their interest into a concrete approach in the coming
weeks.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold is upbeat and Talking Sport
Posted on July 2, 2015 by Headmaster
claret&blues.com
We are indebted to our own Gavin Thurston (GoatyGav) for taking the time out
to précis the interview David Gold gave this morning to the Alan Brazil
Show. Now that we are post all of the 'I think West Ham are treating Sam
very unfairly' routine, it is good that Brazil was able to host Mr Gold and
even better that the co-Chairman sounded so confident that the club is
headed in the right direction. For the first time in years, you know what, I
agree with him!
Goaty's abbreviated transcript captures the main points as follows:
* Avoiding injuries this season (referenced our drop off last term).
* Youngsters coming through to help with squad.
* Doesn't know reason for Slav not being in charge tonight.
* A win tonight takes pressure off in the away leg next week.
* Potential bananna skin (referenced past losses to 4th tier teams in cup
competitions)
* Would be stunned if we didn't win
* What an evening it will be for the Andorrans playing in front of 35K+.
Their last gate was 68 fans
* Asked about Charlie Austin or AN other. Said they are going the extra mile
to make it happen
* Asked about new stadium – is Slaven a Risk? Why Change? Mr Allardyce was
the 2nd longest serving manager. Time for Change. He did what they asked of
him when we were down and stabilised us in the Prem.
* Likely Mr Allardyce will have a few months off rather than go for a job
now.
* Asked if Super Slav was NO1 choice. Replied that he was in the respect
that he ticked so many boxes. Ex player. Fan's favourite. Has Passion.
Understands the club. Has determination. Wants to play entertaining
football. Stats only say some of the story and when the owners met him they
were very impressed and he interviewed well.
* Many fans remember Brooking and Devonshire picking the ball up deep and
setting attacks going – Slav will provide football more in line with the
'West Ham Way'
* The OS will draw fans. Easy to get to. Better experience. Upton Park, by
comparison, a nightmare. Much better public transport links including 5
train stations.
* Ambition? DG said that they want to move on. Get the top 5 to look over
their shoulders. Owners have passion for this and that he feels it's 'Our
Time'. Spoke about the 'Correlation' of the size of a club's fan-base to
it's success as a club.
* Alan Brazil touched on Corporate Hospitality but they went to a break
before DS could answer.
* Kids a the OS – affordable. £99 for Season Ticket in OS. Investing in the
future of the club with young fans. Mickey Quinn commended DS for this –
making football affordable compared to ridiculous prices in Prem for
families.
* Sold out 'Club London' & spoke of potential embarrassment of not filling
the OS. At the moment they are hitting all their targets for sales for the
OS.
* Selling the club on in the future. Doesn't 'want' to do it but if a Super
Wealthy person comes in they may have to step aside and let it happen.
Ideally they would want to stay involved and ensure that the traditions are
retained.
* Asked about new season fixtures. Difficult start at Arsenal. Potential
difficult games against highly motivated, adrenaline filled, newly promoted
clubs.
* Payet was the owner's choice however Slaven "endorsed" the signing. He is
very much an exciting "West Ham Way" player.
* Alan Brazil referenced wise spending and how well West Ham did last Summer
in the transfer market. DS said that all 9 signings "met expectation" and
two "exceeded expectation." Spoke of Diafra Sakho as an example.
* Jenks – working hard to keep him. Cresswell great season but potential
even better. Made comparisons of current full backs to Julian Dicks, Ray
Stewart and Frank Lampard Snr.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 'working hard' to get Carl Jenkinson back from Arsenal, confirms
David Gold
Evening Standard
DAMIAN SPELLMAN
Published: 02 July 2015 Updated: 12:28, 02 July 2015
West Ham co-chairman David Gold has confirmed the club is working to secure
Carl Jenkinson's return to Upton Park. The Arsenal full-back spent last
season on loan with the Hammers and manager Slaven Bilic is hopeful of
retaining his services for the new campaign. Jenkinson, 23, who made 36
appearances last season, has been linked with a series of potential suitors
this season with Southampton and Sunderland among those clubs touted as
possible competitors to West Ham for his signature. The Londoners have
already been busy in the summer transfer market, landing Marseille winger
Dimitri Payet, Sampdoria midfielder Pedro Obiang and Birmingham keeper
Darren Randolph as they attempt to manage the dual demands of domestic and
European campaigns.
Gold said: "We recognise this is an important season for us and being in
Europe we will go the extra mile to ensure we have got the strongest
possible squad we can muster."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham close in on transfer deals for Barcelona's Alex Song and Arsenal's
Carl Jenkinson
Simon Osborn for Metro.co.uk
Thursday 2 Jul 2015 10:24 am
West Ham hope to announce two new signings in the next 48-hours. The Hammers
are set to tie up a permanent move for midfielder Alex Song, who is expected
to join from Barcelona on a free transfer, and a one-year loan-deal Arsenal
defender Carl Jenkinson. Both players spent last season on-loan at Upton
Park and, according to the Daily Telegraph, will both return to play a role
in Slaven Bilic's new-look side. Keeping Song represents a major coup for
the Hammers as Chelsea were also thought to be in the race to sign the
27-year-old former Arsenal midfielder.
England under-21 international Jenkinson turned down a move to Sunderland
last month as he wanted to stay in East London.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham take Wimbledon's Daniel Agyei on trial amid Chelsea interest
By Jack Watson
Posted on July 2, 2015
squawka.com
West Ham United have offered AFC Wimbledon striker Daniel Agyei a trial amid
interest from Chelsea, according to the Daily Mail. The Hammers are having a
big summer after waving goodbye to Sam Allardyce and replacing him with
Slaven Bilic, who almost won the Turkish Super Lig with Besiktas last season
as well as knocking Liverpool out of the Europa League. He's a well-known
manager in England having played over here for West Ham during his playing
days, plus he was Croatian manager when Steven McClaren's England failed to
qualify for the European Championships in 2008. They're now seeking ways to
make improvements to their squad too and have offered Agyei the chance to
shine, who is clearly impressing scouts if Premier League champions Chelsea
have also taken a look at him. Agyei scored 29 goals for AFC Wimbledon's
Under-21s' side last season so clearly knows where the goal is and how stick
the ball in it.
West Ham made two great attacking signings of Diafra Sakho and Enner
Valencia last season and they both made exceptional starts before fading
away.
Sakho ended the season with 10 goals while Valencia finished with six fewer
on four, so adding another goal-poacher to the mix can only be a good thing
for the Hammers and for Bilic who will aim for a top ten finish next season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: West Ham set £8m asking price for Stewart Downing amid reported
Newcastle interest
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham will reportedly sell Stewart Downing this summer - if they receive
£8m. According to the Daily Mirror, West Ham are willing to entertain offers
of around £8m for midfielder Stewart Downing this summer. Downing, 30,
enjoyed a productive season for West Ham with six goals in 37 games, but now
faces the Upton Park exit after new manager Slaven Bilic brought in
Marseille playmaker Dimitri Payet. Frenchman Payet will be the undoubted
first choice playmaker next season, meaning Downing could be forced out of
the side - and he is attracting Premier League interest. The Daily Star
recently reported that both Newcastle and Sunderland are interested in
signing the England international, with a battle potentially ensuing between
the two North East rivals. Now, the Daily Mirror report that West Ham would
be willing to sell Downing this summer - if they receive an offer of £8m,
having already rejected an offer of £6m from Sunderland.
Money well spent?
Downing played well for West Ham last season, flourishing as the central
playmaker in a 4-3-1-2 system under ex-Hammers boss Sam Allardyce. If either
Sunderland or Newcastle have plans to play Downing in that role, then he
could well be a good signing - but there are plenty of concerns. Downing
turns 31 later this month, and forking out £8m for a player of that age with
little resale value should be of great concern, especially for Newcastle,
who need to be signing young, hungry players, rather than paying so much for
a player who could be in decline soon.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Obiang and Hendrie train for West Ham, along with 16-year-old Reece Oxford
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham have been preparing for tonight's Europa League fixture. West Ham
United have been busy training in yesterday's searing July heat ahead of
their Europa League qualifying match against Lusitanos. Led by Slaven Bilic
and first team coach Julian Dicks, the players were put through their paces
as they prepare for their early season kick-off. Featuring in the training
session were new signings central midfielder Pedro Obiang, who joined from
Sampdoria, and full-back Stephen Hendrie, who joined from Scottish side
Hamilton. Neither are in line to start for the club on Thursday evening,
with academy manager Terry Westley announced the starting line-up at a press
conference, published by the Hammers' official Twitter account, with the
team listed below.
West Ham starting XI to play Lusitanos: Randolph, O'Brien, Tomkins, Burke,
Page, Oxford, Amalfitano, Poyet, Jarvis, Sakho, Zarate.
Mauro Zarate has a second chance to impress after falling out of favour
under Sam Allardyce last season, and Diego Poyet also goes straight into the
side after returning from the under-20 World Cup where he starred for
Uruguay. The most notable name set to appear on the teamsheet in England
under-17 star Reece Oxford, just 16, who is in line to make his first start
for the Hammers. Oxford is pictured below in training with young teammates
Emmanuel Onariase and Jordan Brown.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Crystal Palace and West Ham in battle to sign Yohan Cabaye
Both clubs are willing to meet PSG's £10 million asking price
telegraph.co.uk
Jason Burt 10:22PM BST 01 Jul 2015
Crystal Palace and West Ham United are going head-to-head to try and bring
the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye back to the Premier League.
Both clubs have indicated they are willing to meet PSG's £10 million asking
price for the French international who has been told he can leave although
Palace manager Alan Pardew's strong relationship with the 29-year-old – who
he coached at Newcastle United – may prove decisive. Although Cabaye left
Newcastle under difficult circumstances he maintained a good friendship with
Pardew who wants to make him one of three significant signings at Palace
this summer as the club aims to consolidate its top-flight status. Palace
have been in talks with PSG for some time but they are not going to have a
free run at Cabaye with West Ham hoping that their potential – with the move
to the Olympic Stadium next season and the arrival of Slaven Bilic as their
new manager – could prove decisive.
Cabaye was signed for £19million by PSG from Newcastle in January 2014 but
has fallen out of the first-team reckoning with the French champions having
informed him he can find a new club.
Cabaye needs to re-establish himself as a regular first-team player having
been warned that his he will not regain a place in the France squad – ahead
of Euro 2016 – unless he does so.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham step up pursuit to bring Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson back on
loan... and give trial to Wimbledon striker Daniel Agyei
By SIMON JONES FOR MAILONLINE and MATT MALTBY FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 20:48, 1 July 2015 | UPDATED: 22:05, 1 July 2015
West Ham have stepped up their pursuit to bring Arsenal defender Carl
Jenkinson back on loan following his successful spell last season. The right
back impressed at Upton Park and helped the Hammers secure a 12th placed
finish in the Premier League. And with a lack of full back options,
Sportsmail understands the east London club are keen on signing Jenkinson
for a second-consecutive season. West Ham have stepped up their pursuit to
bring Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson back on loan in the summer The England
international made 36 appearances in all competitions last season but is
behind Hector Bellerin and Mathieu Debuchy in the pecking order at Arsenal.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is happy to allow Jenkinson to get more matches
under his belt on a temporary basis. West Ham United's Carl Jenkinson
applauds the fans after the final whistle during the Barclays Premier League
match at Upton Park, London. Meanwhile, the Hammers are expected to give a
trial to AFC Wimbledon striker Daniel Agyei, who has also courted the
interest of Chelsea, on Thursday. Teenager Agyei scored 29 goals for AFC
Wimbledon U18s last season and will be given the opportunity to prove his
worth at West Ham.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reece Oxford will become youngest ever player to represent West Ham by
featuring against FC Lusitans at tender age of 16
By ANTHONY HAY FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 21:17, 1 July 2015 | UPDATED: 07:01, 2 July 2015
Reece Oxford will write his name in West Ham's history books by making his
competitive debut against against FC Lusitans at the tender age of 16.
Oxford has been included in West Ham's experimental starting line-up to take
on the Andorran side in Thursday's UEFA Europa League first round qualifying
tie. England Under 17 starlet Oxford will break Billy Williams' record.
Williams had held the title of West Ham's youngest ever player for 93 years.
WEST HAM XI VS FC LUSITANS
Randolph; O'Brien, Tomkins (c), Burke, Page; Amalfitano, Poyet, Oxford,
Jarvis; Sakho, Zarate
Williams made his competitive debut at the age of 16 years and 221 days,
while Oxford will make his competitive bow at 16 years and 198 days. Oxford
came close to making his first senior appearance for the Hammers during the
2014-15 campaign. He was an unused substitute for West Ham's Barclays
Premier League matches against Liverpool, Manchester United, Southampton,
Queens Park Rangers and Burnley as well as in the east London side's Capital
One Cup defeat by Sheffield United in August. West Ham academy manager Terry
Westley will take charge of Thursday's match at Upton Park as Slaven Bilic
has decided to watch the European tie from the stands.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'We'll see if he's as good as we think' West Ham wonderkid set for debut
London 24
06:50 02 July 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham are set to hand a competitive debut to 16-year-old Reece Oxford in
tonight's Europa League first qualifying game v Andorran side Lusitanos. A
full house at Upton Park will watch a Hammers XI, featuring a number of
first team players, take to the field with more than five weeks to go until
the start of the Premier League season. One man who will also start is
England under-17 captain Oxford, who will line up in midfield alongside
Diego Poyet. The youngster signed a new contract with the club last year
after being linked with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, and academy boss
Terry Westley who will take charge against Lusitanos is hoping he can cope
with the occasion. "We will find out about him," Westley said. "We will find
out whether he can handle the pressure of the big situation, whether he is
as good as we think he is. "We won't know that with him on the bench or in
the stand. "He has an opportunity and the talking has to stop. "If he is
going to be one of the best we have produced he has to be some player with
Tomkins here and then Lampard, Cole, Ferdinand and the rest weren't bad.
"Where he is at his age, he has done exactly what he needs to do. "Some
questions will be answered tomorrow." Some areas of West Ham fans were
disappointed not to see more academy players given a chance under Sam
Allardyce. However Westley thinks former boss Big Sam has left the younger
players in a good position going into this campaign. "You've got to be good
enough," he added. "I spent three years at the Premier League and my job was
to bring through more youngsters. "They have to be good enough but you do
need opportunities and that is why this competition is such a good chance
for us. "People now have to step forward and prove they are good enough. "I
think Sam was good in that respect, right at the end with Reece Burke
playing and Reece Oxford was around the squad. "That is why I was brought to
the club, to have three or four home-grown players playing in the Olympic
Stadium next season, that is what this club is about. "We have to try and
develop the players to be good enough for that."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'His knowledge of European players is fantastic' West Ham transfer targets
tipped to be a success
London 24
07:10 02 July 2015 Brad Pinard
Slaven Bilic has an extraordinary knowledge of top European players,
according to Hammers coach Terry Westley. The east enders take on Lusitanos
in their opening Europa League clash of the season tonight and Westley will
take charge. Bilic is on his way back from Cork, where the Hammers first
team is based at present, and will fly back out to work with his proper
squad after the game. The Hammers have already nabbed Pedro Obiang and
Dimitri Payet from Europe and more are set to follow with two new signings
expected before the start of next week. Bilic has a superb knowledge of
players, having worked in different countries and at international level,
and he can bring that to Upton Park. "His knowledge of European players is
fantastic," Westley said. The way he talks about players, he is a very
intelligent manager and I am sure he will bring that to the job. "He has
been very respectful. "He knows we know the players and what we are doing.
He has been respectful in terms of training and setting the team up. "We
have spoken about the team and what shape he wants to play, I've no doubt
tomorrow he will make changes if he wants to."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM JOIN RACE FOR STRIKER
West Ham have joined the heavily contested race to sign striker Chris Martin
this summer.
Several other Premier League clubs are interested in the Derby man.
Rob Mullis 7 hours ago
ironscircle.com
According to reports, West Ham are prepared to bring Derby County striker,
Chris Martin, to East London, but will face competition from several Premier
League clubs.
Slaven Bilic's new employers will be looking to go head-to-head with
Martin's former boss at Derby, Steve McClaren, who has recently taken over
at Newcastle United. Crystal Palace, Swansea City and West Bromwich Albion
are also looking to bring the Scotland international up to top-flight
football. The striker himself may prefer to join Alan Pardew at Palace,
where he scored 7 goals in 26 games between 2011 and 2012.
West Ham though, are looking to bolster the squad ahead of a first European
campaign in 9 years, where striking options will be tested to the full and
goals are a must. Chris Martin has scored a total of 45 goals in two years
at Rams; more than any Hammers striker in that time.
Derby County may face a serious challenge to hold onto the 26 year-old who
might offer better value for money than QPR's Charlie Austin, who has been
rumoured to be in Claret and Blue sights.
None the less, if Martin does join, West Ham may be forced to offload one of
the barrage of strikers available for this season, boosted by the returns of
Mauro Zarate and Modibo Maiga.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Alex Song set for West Ham return after exercising in NEW club training
shorts despite still being on Barcelona's books
By SEAN GALLAGHER FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 01:16, 2 July 2015 | UPDATED: 01:40, 2 July 2015
Alex Song has fuelled speculation that he is closing in on a return to West
Ham after uploading a video on Instagram of him training in the club's new
training shorts in the gym on Wednesday. The 27-year-old, who impressed for
the Hammers during a loan spell last season, is believed to have been at the
club's training base when doing the exercise drills. The shorts, pictured
below, are available to buy via the club's official superstore for £27.99.
As Sportsmail revealed on Monday, the Cameroon international has agreed
personal terms with the east London side and is now awaiting a medical ahead
of a permanent move. A fee is yet to be agreed with Barcelona for the
former Arsenal midfielder though, with the Hammers keen to land Song on a
free transfer ideally. Despite this the transfer is expected to go through
and could be completed within the next 72 hours. New West Ham boss Slaven
Bilic is also hopeful of landing former loanee Carl Jenkinson from the
Emirates, as well as Monaco defender Aymen Abdennour and Lille midfielder
Idrissa Gueye.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus
WHUFC.com
FC Lusitans aim to make the most of their opportunity of playing in front of
a sell-out Boleyn Ground crowd on Thursday night. The Andorrans are more
used to playing in front of audiences running into the hundreds rather than
thousands, but Thursday's UEFA Europa League qualifier offers them a bigger
showcase for their abilities.~ The Primera Divisao runners-up are West Ham's
first European opponents in nine years and manager Xavi Roura is determined
to show they are not just in London to make up the numbers. "We are very
excited," Roura said. "It is a very important moment for the club and the
country. We are very excited to be playing in the Europa League against such
a prestigious opponent. "We've been working hard on our preparations for
three weeks now. There were many big clubs in the draw, but we were drawn
against West Ham and that's great. We know what we're up against, we know
where we are as a team and the draw was big news for us. "It's going to be a
fantastic experience for the team – not just in terms of football but it has
so much value aside from the game. It's a scenario that will motivate us a
huge amount. "No two matches are the same, so it's difficult to compare.
They could be some similarities with the way we play compared with the
national team, but we know where are weaknesses lie and the weapons we need
to use in the team to make up for them."
One player who has performed in front of a large London crowd is the
experienced Oscar Sonejee, for whom four of his 101 Andorra caps have come
against England. He was involved as his country lost 6-0 in front of close
to 60,000 at Wembley in June 2009 and says this game represents a big
opportunity for his team. He explained: "Having that experience always
helps, and I've played in two matches here in England and two in Barcelona.
"Those matches were a great experience, and [the atmosphere will not only
help the players enjoy the match, but it should also make us more
competitive" Those thoughts were echoed by skipper Leonel Maciel, who says
he will not need to give his teammates any added motivation. "Just the fact
we're playing here is sufficient motivation in itself," he said, "As captain
I always have an encouraging word with everyone, but on this occasion I
don't think there's any need to add extra motivation."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Skipper Tonks ready for early start
WHUFC.com
On the eve of West Ham United's return to European football, Basildon-born
James Tomkins spoke of his excitement at getting the season under way. The
26-year-old Academy graduate will captain the team as they kick off their
Europa League campaign when they face Andorran outfit FC Lusitans on
Thursday evening. Speaking ahead of the Hammers first game of the new
2015/16 season, just 39 days since they last played, Tomkins welcomed the
early return to action. "Ordinarily I would be on holiday at this time of
year, getting prepared for the new season, but I'd much rather be back
playing. "I want game time because it's important for my fitness. To play a
competitive game so early is great for me. Obviously I didn't play much at
the end of last season through injury, so to be back out there is great."
Due to the quick turnaround, the matchday squad named by Academy Terry
Westley represents a mixture of experienced first team and Development Squad
players. Lewis Page and Reece Oxford are in line to make their senior
debuts while further Dev Squad members could feature from the bench.
Tomkins, a fellow Academy graduate himself, stated his pride at being chosen
as captain: "It's a massive honour to captain the side, let alone captain
the side in Europe. I'm delighted, obviously I'm one of the more experienced
players in this squad. "I'm only 26 but I'm still one of the older lads.
Lads like Reece are just 16 years old so I'm ten years older and I've got
that experience. It's a good role for me to take on in this stage of my
career. I'm looking forward to communicating with the younger lads on the
pitch and helping them through it."
The experienced central defender, who had been in superb form for the
Hammers before injury limited his game time, is relishing the prospect of
playing in front of a sell-out crowd at the Boleyn Ground. Speaking at the
pre-match press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Tomkins seemed genuinely
bowled over by the West Ham fans passion for European football. "The
atmosphere is going to be electric tomorrow. There's been a lot of talk
about how important the Europa League is to this Club. "As this is the last
season at the Boleyn Ground, it's going to be emotional but brilliant. We
want to leave this stadium in the best way we can and the Europa league is a
good way of doing that. "We're entering a new era and it's a great
opportunity for everyone to impress the new manager. We haven't had too much
time to work with him but in the time we have had, he has impressed me.
"We've had a few meetings and he seems really friendly. He's done all he can
in a short time to get us ready for the new season and he'll be about in the
dressing room tomorrow. A popular figure among fans and teammates alike,
Tomkins finished by saying that due to the phenomenal demand for tickets,
some players had even missed out. "As captain I've made sure I've got some
tickets for my family and friends but I think some of the other lads have
struggled. "I don't think anyone was expecting a sell-out but we're all
delighted that it is. We're all delighted and it's particularly good for the
younger ones making their debut, it's fantastic."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven set for Europa team talk
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Academy manager Terry Westley confirmed that new manager
Slaven Bilic will take the Hammers pre-match team talk ahead of the Europa
League tie with FC Lusitans on Thursday evening. Westley has been working
closely with the matchday squad which comprises a mixture of first team
regulars and Development Squad Academy graduates such as Lewis Page and
Reece Oxford. In Wednesday's pre-match press conference, Westley
explained: "The team is all set up. We did all our work in Cork with the
manager. With Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate up front and Morgan Amalfitano
and Matt Jarvis on the wings, we pretty much have four forwards. It gives
some indication to our attacking intent. "We don't need a huge team talk
before the game because the work has been done. The players are ready. We'll
have to get here a bit earlier due to the huge number of people that are
coming. We'll have a pre-match meeting with the manager then the players
will do the job."
Westley continued to highlight the importance of Bilic's previous experience
of European football with Turkish outfit Besiktas. While the former West
Ham United defender may have only just taken the reigns, Westley has been
impressed by the Croatians' managerial abilities. "We've spoken about the
shape of the team and the way we'd like to play. We're both happy with how
preparations have gone in Ireland and since we've been back. "Slaven knows
European football inside out. He is a very, very talented manager. He gets
to know the players he works with at previous clubs very well too."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Page excited by Boleyn debut
WHUFC.com
Lewis Page will fulfil a life-long ambition when he walks out to make his
West Ham United debut against FC Lusitans tonight. Academy Manager Terry
Westley, who will be in the dugout for the UEFA Europa League first
qualifying round first leg tie, confirmed in his pre-match press conference
that the 19-year-old left back will be in his starting XI. Page has been
with the Hammers since the age of ten and aims to make the most of the
opportunity that awaits. "It means everything to know I'll be making my
first team debut," he explains. "It's everything I dreamed of when I was
younger and to get an appearance for West Ham will be unbelievable. "When we
knew we were in Europe starting this early, all the lads were texting each
other over the summer thinking we might get a chance. "We kept ourselves fit
and we want to take the opportunity with both hands. With 35,000 fans there
it will be a great feeling – it'll be different to Rush Green, but hopefully
we will love the atmosphere and just play our football. "It's a big game for
the Club and hopefully we can get the result we want. "
Page formed part of a group of experienced and youthful players who prepared
for Thursday's sell-out game with a training camp in Ireland – training
which he says has set them up for action perfectly. He explained: "It was a
good week of preparation in Ireland. There's been a good intensity to
training, everybody looks pretty sharp and we're all looking forward to the
game. "The first team players in the group have helped us through it.
They've always been there to talk to and answer any questions we've got –
they're just a good bunch of lads.
"The new manager was watching last week and he'll be at the game tonight so
we're all trying to impress. That's the important thing, if we're all
fighting for places we'll get the best out of each other."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Get with the Programme!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United kick-off the historic Farewell Boleyn season with an 84-page
issue for the UEFA League first qualifying round first leg visit of FC
Lusitans. The 2 July clash with the Andorran Primera Divisio runners-up is
marked with a special retro cover - a feature that will remain a constant
throughout the 2015/16 campaign. The first cover sees new manager Slaven
Bilic pictured in a design that recreates that used for the November 1934
visit of Swedish club AIK Stockholm - one of the first European clubs to
visit the Boleyn Ground. Bilic pens his first manager's column inside, while
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold, captain James Tomkins and
Academy Manager Terry Westley also write exclusively for the programme. Also
inside, fans can read interviews with the Hammers' summer signings Dimitri
Payet, Pedro Obiang, Darren Randolph and Martin Samuelsen. There is the
complete lowdown on Thursday's visitors from Andorra, plus everything you
need to know about West Ham's upcoming move to the new Stadium in Stratford
and how to go about securing your seat in the Club's new 54,000-capacity
home.
A new Farewell Boleyn section features emotional interviews with former
Hammers, fans and staff, classic images and more. As for the contributors,
Ian 'Moose' Abrahams recalls a surreal European night with David Cross,
while Ken Dyer, Matty Lawless and David Croft also pen their thoughts ahead
of what promises to be an unforgettable eleven months. The first issue of
the 2015/16 programme is available for just £3.50 in and around the Boleyn
Ground this evening, or you can order online here. To make sure you don't
miss a single issue of the Farewell Boleyn campaign, order a subscription
for just £90 here.
Alternatively, the Digital Official Programme will be available to download
to your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, and Android devices alongside PC and Mac
from 9am on matchday.
The Digital Programme comes with all the content you would expect from the
print edition, as well as exclusive video footage, meaning fans from all
over the globe can get ahead of the action and read their Programme and
enjoy exclusive video interviews and highlights.
If you live overseas, that means you can download your Digital Programme
before kick-off, with the game being televised live in a large number of
countries across the world. The print edition will be available to buy in
and around the Boleyn Ground on matchday as usual, packed with all the usual
exclusive content.
The Digital Programme offers supporters a number of great additional
features, including:
Easy to use page-turning technology
Simple content navigation and skip-to-page features
Interactive content including exclusive video footage
Our programmes remember the last page you were viewing
Fans can order back-dated issues
Apple users will have all their issues hosted in one place on Newsstand for
easy access
Hammers supporters can subscribe for the whole season from just £24.99 (fans
receive all back issues) or buy individual issues for only £1.99.
The Digital Programme is available on Apple iPad and iPhone, as well as
Android and via the Pocketmags app on kindle fire and Blackberry Playbook.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Graeme Howlett, of KUMB.com, looks ahead to Thursday's game against FC
Lusitans...
That West Ham United have been able to completely sell out the Boleyn Ground
for Thursday evening's Europa League tie against Andorran minnows FC
Lusitans is a clear indication of the fans' desire to make the most of the
limited time remaining at our famous old ground. Well, that and the
opportunity to see our new manager Slaven Bilic for the first time since he
was appointed, of course!
Slav will be at the ground, we understand, although he has delegated
management duties to Academy chief Terry Westley - who has been working with
the squad at their Irish training camp - for the night.
In some ways the club have been extraordinarily lucky that a wild-card entry
into European competition has coincided with the Irons' final season in
Upton Park. Nonetheless, the Board should be congratulated for delivering a
sensible pricing structure which ensures not only that the ground is full,
but that entry is genuinely affordable for all.
Although a number of first team players only returned to training this week,
the Hammers will still be fielding a reasonably strong side; certainly one
that should be of sufficient quality to see off the challenge of a team who
have been routinely thumped in the first qualifying round in each of their
previous four Europa League campaigns.
Should West Ham manage to overcome the challenge of Lusitans as expected
(although as Hammers we know NEVER to take anything for granted!) there will
be little chance for Bilic's boys to rest on their laurels, as the second
round commences just seven days after the first round, second leg in
Andorra.
We already know that either Birkirkara of Malta or Armenia's Ulisses await,
but continued progress in the competition will ensure games come thick and
fast once the Premier League campaign - which kicks off the weekend of 8/9
August - begins.
Should West Ham make safe passage through the second qualifying round, they
will play the second leg of the third qualifying round just 72 hours before
the Premier League season-opener at Arsenal. And the final Europa League
play-off round is scheduled for 20 and 27 August - each three days ahead of
two very important early-season top-flight clashes with Bournemouth (home)
and Liverpool (away).
That means August alone could result in the Hammers playing no less than
SEVEN fixtures in 24 days - so it's no surprise that David Sullivan and his
recruitment team are looking to tie up as many deals as early as possible
this summer, with view to a potentially lengthy and arduous European
campaign to follow.
The early qualifying rounds of the competition have unfortunately arrived
too soon for one or two of the club's most recent arrivals to be eligible.
One who the Hammers could certainly do with is Slaven Bilic's latest
acquisition, Dimitri Payet from Marseille.
At 28, the 15-times capped French winger should be at his peak and whilst
some eyebrows were raised at the (undisclosed) eight-figure transfer fee
(except that bit), West Ham should be acquiring a player who will prove to
be worth every penny.
Payet's recent record is quite exceptional; it's already well-documented
that he created 135 goalscoring opportunities last season, more apparently
than any other player in the top European leagues. That should be music to
the ears of Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia, who were often
bereft of service during the last campaign (when not being asked to provide
it themselves).
Those 135 chances converted into 17 actual assists in Ligue 1 in 2014/15,
which were complemented by seven goals - a decent return for a player
charged with creating, rather than completing goalscoring opportunities.
Payet followed goalkeeper Darren Randolph, midfielder Pedro Obiang and
full-back Stephen Hendrie into the club already this summer. And according
to whufc.com's Boleyn Insider, two further new signings are set to arrive
imminently. It's going to be a busier summer than usual at the Boleyn...
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'This is why we will sell-out the new Stadium'
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet says a sold-out UEFA UEFA Europa League first qualifying round
tie against Andorran side FC Lusitans illustrates the sheer size of West Ham
United. Despite the visitors being virtual unknowns until the draw was made
and bringing just a handful of fans themselves, the Claret and Blue Army
have snapped up nearly 35,000 tickets for the game. Midfielder Poyet, who
has been named in Terry Westley's starting XI for the match, believes the
loyalty and commitment shown by West Ham fans ensures they will sell-out the
Club's new 54,000-seater stadium in Stratford a year from now. "It says a
lot about the type of fans we have at the Club," he told West Ham TV, who
will be screening Thursday's tie exclusive, live and FREE coverage on
whufc.com. "I have watched a lot of Europa League games last season in the
main competition and they weren't even sold out, and we've got our first
qualifier and it's already sold out. Massive thanks to all the fans for
coming to support us. "It shows that the new Stadium is going to be sold out
every week. Some people were saying 'maybe it will, maybe it won't' but 100
per cent it will sell-out. It's 2 July and we are filling up the stadium and
it's already been sold-out for a couple of days. "It's great support for
everyone and makes the game ten times more exciting for all the players and
for everyone involved and it's a great game to be part of."
For Poyet himself, the game represents an opportunity to impress those
35,000 fans inside the Boleyn Ground and thousands more watching on
whufc.com around the world, while new manager Slaven Bilic will be observing
from the stands. After impressing for Uruguay at the recent FIFA U-20 World
Cup finals in New Zealand, the 20-year-old holding midfielder is keen to
kick-on again for the Hammers. "I'm really excited for the game," he
confirmed. "I obviously had a really short break on holiday because of the
Under-20 World Cup, but I feel good. "We're already prepared for the game
and we know as much as we can know about the opposition and we're ready."
So, what does Diego and his teammates know about FC Lusitans, who finished
second in Andorra's Primera Divisio last season. "I think they will be
really organised and try to keep it as tight as possible," he explained,
revealing that the squad has watched footage of their opponents in action.
"They are good from set-pieces, so that's something we will have to watch
out for when we play them. "They are not going to be intimidated by us, but
the only thing that might intimidate them is the big crowd. They have got
some international players, but others might not be so used to playing in
such a big crowd, so we will use that to our advantage. "We have home
advantage in the first leg and obviously want to take a good score when we
go there next week."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United v FC Lusitans
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 1st July 2015
By: Preview Percy
It's time to pay our first visit of the season to the Avram Grant Olympic
Rest Home For The Bewildered to see how much Preview Percy knows about
Andorra. Not much as it happens...
Hang on a moment, I've only just nodded off after our last game and you wake
me up for this?
Ok apparently we have qualified for the Thursday Night League by virtue of
us coming top of the "Good Egg" league, a concept whose worth can be gauged
by the fact that Liverpool, with one of the worst teams in history for
diving, were also hovering around the top towards the end of the season.
This has left us with a place in Europe, meaning that some of the
meaningless early season matches against lesser opposition have been
replaced by slightly more meaningful matches against lesser opposition.
So, after a draw that used three of my kind of brandy glasses and a bit of
messing about with the fixture dates we find ourselves drawn at home against
FC Lusitans of Andorra. Kick-off is 7:45pm and the rearranged fixture date
means we miss the tube strike. Which is nice.
As far as I can recall from my O-Level Geography (note to kids - O Levels
were sort of like GCSEs would be if you actually had to know stuff to get
them) Andorra is a small bit of land parked between a Pyrenee or two that
both France and Spain forgot to divvy up when they got round to drawing up
the border all those years ago. It's an odd little place which is co-ruled
by two princes, one of whom is always whoever is president of France at the
time and the other is whoever happens to be the Bishop of Urgell at the
time.
As you'd expect then there's a strong Franco-Spanish influence to the whole
place. There is, however, a third major influence on the country in the form
of England's oldest ally. There is a sizeable part of the population with a
Portuguese background which is a bit odd considering how far away it is.
However, it is this influence that is relevant to our opponents in this
first qualifying round. The club name is derived from Lusitania which is the
ancient Roman name for the bit of the Iberian peninsula that contains
Portugal. The kit is based on that of the Portuguese national side whilst
the club crest contains elements of that used by the Portuguese FA.
So what do we know of our opponents? Well at this point I'd usually send out
the work experience girl with an inappropriate number of rings through her
lips to go and find stuff out but it being the close season she's nowhere to
be found so I'm doing the legwork myself. The first thing to note is the
Andorran league is a little bit like the Welsh league insofar as the best
team in the country (FC Andorra) actually plays in the Spanish football
system in the same way as Swansea & Cardiff regularly hop across the Severn
Bridge. So Lusitans can be thought of in the same breath as Airbus UK, Bala
Town and of course the clumsily-monikered The New Saints, whose name derives
from the fact that they didn't want to change the initials when they removed
the sponsor's name from the official name of the club.
One of the things that is odd about football over there is that the stadia
are all owned by the Andorran FA, who decide who is going to play where at
the start of the season. Spurs would, I am sure, have complained about the
illegal state aid this clearly represents but for the fact that a) Andorra
isn't part of the EU so they can do what they like; and b)Spurs are too
occupied with counting the millions they have saved by getting Boris and
Haringay to pay for all those tedious infrastructure improvements that
usually accompany planning applications of the size of their new ground.
Lusitans play in the Andorran "Primera Divisio" which currently comprises 8
clubs. They stretch this out to a 20 match season by splitting the league in
two after everyone has played everyone else home and away with the top four
playing for the title and the bottom four playing to stay in the league.
They were actually Champions in 2011/12 and 2012/13 but their European
pedigree can be gauged by the fact that their inaugural so-called Champions
League "run" consisted of a 9-1 defeat to the then Maltese champions
Valetta. The pinnacle of their forays into European competition is probably
the 2-2 first leg home draw against the Faroes outfit EB/Streymur in the
Champions League in 2013. In fact they were 2-0 up in this match and missed
the spot-kick that would have taken them 3-0 up. Sadly for the Andorrans
(or, if you will, "Portuguese" to give them their nickname) they were unable
to hold onto the lead and the Faroese added a 5-1 win to the first leg draw
to send them out. Their 4th place finish in 2013/14 saw them fall outside
the European qualifying places but their second place last term saw them
qualify for this tie.
Their most famous player is probably, no, make that definitely, a chap by
the name of Oscar Sonejee who is in his second spell with the club having
played at a slightly higher level with the aforementioned FC Andorra, as
well as for a number of other clubs within the Primera Divisio. He is the
country's most capped player, having broken the ton a couple of weeks ago in
Andorra's 1-0 defeat by Equatorial Guinea. Some may remember him getting
into a bit of an argument with Wayne Rooney in a Euro qualifier a few years
back. There again most won't. The list of people who have gotten into an
argument with Wayne Rooney is hardly an exclusive one after all. Sonerjee
has cult hero status in Mumbai of all places, something that can be
attributed to his Indian heritage.
They also boast a Sierra Leonean international in the form of Alfi
Conteh-Lacalle. ACL (as probably nobody calls him given that the initials
are reminiscent of a nasty ligament problem) is in fact a product of the
Barcelona youth system having been born in the Catalonian capital. He was
actually capped by the Spaniards at U19 Level before throwing his hat into
the ring with Sierra Leone for whom he now has, er, one cap. Since exiting
Barcelona, "Knee Injury" has hawked himself around the lower leagues of a
number of countries including Spain, Greece and Hungary where Honved were
the best known of his clubs to date.
After that I'll admit I'm struggling. If this were an FA Cup match I'd no
doubt take great delight in being able to let you know which one of the
opposition was the postman that it is compulsory for all part–time squads to
contain but background details on the players is a little thin on the ground
if truth be told. Mr Sonarjee works in insurance when he's not chasing a bag
of leather about a patch of grass but that's about it. Ok this isn't very
helpful but you try finding out stuff about a country whose main claim to
fame is its duty-free status.
Us? It'll be an unusual team on the pitch. A mixture of one or two old lags
plus a few youngsters to do the running about. We have of course said
farewell to Mr Allardyce since the last woke me up to write one of these
things. Many years ago I wrote something in these pages along the lines that
I didn't want him anywhere near the club. Now he's gone I would say that he
did a job in getting us up. I know it was through the playoffs but he was a
little unlucky that season to see Reading come from nowhere, get outplayed
every week and still win. Their current position shows what a blip that was.
However, it was difficult to warm to the chap, especially as nothing ever
seemed to be his fault. The time was right for him to go so thanks & goodbye
it is.
So it's hello to Slaven Bilic as our new boss. He has already made the right
noises about the type of football he wants his teams to play so hopefully
we'll be a bit more pleasing to the eye over the next, well ten months at
least. However, Biic will apparently be watching this one from the stands
leaving Academy boss Terry Westley in charge dugout-wise.
I wouldn't expect to see too many of our new signings on display meaning
that we'll have to wait for tougher opposition before we see Pedro Obiang
and Dimitri Payet enter the fray. On the other hand it wouldn't be a
surprise to see Darren Randolph take a bow 'twixt the sticks. The rest of
the team has been reported as consisting of O'Brien, Burke, Page,
Amalfitano, Jarvis, Poyet (not Payet), Oxford, Zarate and Sakho. Zarate's
presence suggests a clean slate approach, which will please those who
believe that he wasn't given a fair crack of the whip under the previous
regime.
At this point its traditional to locate £2.50 from somewhere within the
environs of the Avram Grant Olympic Rest Home For The Bewildered and place
it on a prediction but frankly the odds offered by Winstone's The Turf
Accountant for a West Ham win were so ludicrous you'd have to be the Greek
Government to bother placing a wager.
We'll win of course and my main hopes are that a) we somehow manage to
escape pre-season without a player coming down with the traditional serious
injury; and b) the team manages to put on a bit of a show for the 35,000
supporters at home plus the 500 or so popping over there for the return leg.
Enjoy the game!
When last we met: You're joking, right? Ok, since you ask we have never
played them. Alright?
Danger Man: Oscar Sonejee – as an Insurance Clerk he'll know all about
danger. I expect.
Referees: 1st Leg: Vadims Diretorenko (Latvia) 2nd Leg TBA. At least Mike
Riley won't have been involved in his appointment.
Daft Fact Of The Week:: As mentioned, the neighbours have had a major
influence on Andorran culture. For example, although Andorra declared war on
Germany at the start of the First World War, the French influence meant that
they didn't actually join in with any of the fighting. Then the Spanish
habit of having a mid-afternoon nap meant that they were nowhere to be seen
when the Treaty Of Versailles got signed, an omission which meant that,
technically, they remained at war with Germany until 1958. The position was
rectified when, as part of the Europe- wide celebrations in honour of Ted
Fenton's side's promotion to the top fight, all wars involving landlocked
European principalities were cancelled.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Oxford to make history
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 2nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Reece Oxford will become the youngest ever Hammer to take part in a
competitive fixture tonight when he faces FC Lusitanos at the Boleyn Ground.
At 16 years and 198 days, the 6'3" central defender will break a record held
by Leytonstone-born Billy Williams who made his debut for West Ham at the
end of the 1921/22 season, but was a whole 23 days older than Oxford when he
did so. Oxford was close to making his first team debut almost a year ago
when Sam Allardyce named him as an unused substitute for the Capital One Cup
tie against Sheffield United. However despite being involved in the match
day squad on several occasions since, he has had to wait until tonight to
make his bow. Academy boss Terry Westley, a big fan of the youngster
insisted that Oxford is ready to make his bow. "We will find out whether he
can handle the pressure of the big situation, whether he is as good as we
think he is," he said. "We won't know that with him on the bench or in the
stand. "He has an opportunity and the talking has to stop. If he is going
to be one of the best we have produced, he has to be some player, with
(James) Tomkins here and then (Frank) Lampard, (Joe) Cole, (Rio) Ferdinand
and the rest. "Where he is at his age, he has done exactly what he needs to
do."
West Ham United's Europa League qualifying clash clash with FC Lusitanos
kicks off at 7.45pm tonight. Live coverage, for those who cannot attend is
being provided by whufc.com.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan warns of Euro danger
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 2nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Kevin Nolan believes a successful run in the Europa League could make for a
difficult season - although he has urged tonight's team to fully embrace the
opportunity. Now 32 and entering the final year of his contract at the club,
Nolan is unlikely to play a major role in this season's European campaign
but has plenty of experience of doing so, having featured for Bolton in the
(now defunct) UEFA Cup during the mid-noughties. And having experienced the
additional demands required by a good run in Europe - which could
potentially account for an extra 23 games for West Ham to play this season,
should they reach the Final - Nolan is more aware than most of the
difficulties than can arise as a result. "It's going to make everything
tough but it's something that we should all embrace, " he said. "We got in
through the back door but it's something we should all embrace, something we
can learn from. "I played in the Europa for a couple of seasons with Bolton
and really enjoyed my time. There's a few lads who are going to making their
debuts in European football. It's something for them to strive for and in
years to come, for West Ham to be aiming for." And even though he won't be
involved tonight, having remained at the club's Irish training camp with
several fellow first team squad members, Nolan believes Terry Westley's
pre-announced team should have enough in the tank to see off the challenge
of FC Lusitanos. "I wish them all the best," he said. "I'm sure the boys can
get the job done for us."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let the final season commence
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 2nd July 2015
By: Graeme Howlett
That West Ham United have been able to completely sell out the Boleyn Ground
for tonight's Europa League tie against Andorran minnows FC Lusitanos is a
clear indication of the fans' desire to make the most of the limited time
remaining at our famous old ground.
Well, that and the opportunity to see our new manager Slaven Bilic for the
first time since he was appointed, of course!
Slav will be at the ground, we understand, although he has delegated
management duties to Academy chief Terry Westley - who has been working with
the squad at their Irish training camp - for the night.
In some ways the club have been extraordinarily lucky that a wild-card entry
into European competition has coincided with the Irons' final season in
Upton Park. Nonetheless, the Board should be congratulated for delivering a
sensible pricing structure which ensures not only that the ground is full,
but that entry is genuinely affordable for all.
Although a number of first team players only returned to training this week,
the Hammers will still be fielding a reasonably strong side; certainly one
that should be of sufficient quality to see off the challenge of a team who
have been routinely thumped in the first qualifying round in each of their
previous four Europa League campaigns.
Should West Ham manage to overcome the challenge of Lusitanos as expected
(although as Hammers we know NEVER to take anything for granted!) there will
be little chance for Bilic's boys to rest on their laurels, as the second
round commences just seven days after the first round, second leg in
Andorra.
We already know that either Birkirkara of Malta or Armenia's Ulisses FC
await, but continued progress in the competition will ensure games come
thick and fast once the Premier League campaign - which kicks off the
weekend of 8/9 August - begins.
Should West Ham make safe passage through the second qualifying round, they
will play the second leg of the third qualifying round just 72 hours before
the Premier League season-opener at Arsenal. And the final Europa League
play-off round is scheduled for 20 and 27 August - each three days ahead of
two very important early-season top-flight clashes with Bournemouth (home)
and Liverpool (away).
That means August alone could result in the Hammers playing no less than
SEVEN fixtures in 24 days - so it's no surprise that David Sullivan and his
recruitment team are looking to tie up as many deals as early as possible
this summer, with view to a potentially lengthy and arduous European
campaign to follow.
The early qualifying rounds of the competition have unfortunately arrived
too soon for one or two of the club's most recent arrivals to be eligible.
One who the Hammers could certainly do with is Slaven Bilic's latest
acquisition, Dimitri Payet from Marseille.
At 28, the 15-times capped French winger should be at his peak and whilst
some eyebrows were raised at the (undisclosed) eight-figure transfer fee
(except that bit), West Ham should be acquiring a player who will prove to
be worth every penny.
Payet's recent record is quite exceptional; it's already well-documented
that he created 135 goalscoring opportunities last season, more apparently
than any other player in the top European leagues. That should be music to
the ears of Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia, who were often
bereft of service during the last campaign (when not being asked to provide
it themselves).
Those 135 chances converted into 17 actual assists in Ligue 1 in 2014/15,
which were complemented by seven goals - a decent return for a player
charged with creating, rather than completing goalscoring opportunities.
Payet followed goalkeeper Darren Randolph, midfielder Pedro Obiang and
full-back Stephen Hendrie into the club already this summer. And according
to whufc.com's Boleyn Insider, two further new signings are set to arrive
imminently.
It's going to be a busier summer than usual at the Boleyn...
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham trying to sign Arsenal's Carl Jenkinson and Juventus' Angelo
Ogbonna
Last Updated: 02/07/15 12:39pm
SSN
West Ham co-chairman David Gold has confirmed the club are "working hard" to
sign Arsenal right-back Carl Jenkinson. And Sky Italia sources understand
the Hammers are also attempting to sign Angelo Ogbonna from Juventus.
Jenkinson, who has found his first-team chances at Arsenal blocked by Calum
Chambers and Hector Bellerin, spent last season on loan at West Ham and made
29 Premier League starts for them. Ogbonna, meanwhile, has been third choice
behind Stefan Lichsteiner and Giorgio Chiellini at the Old Lady. Hammers
chairman Gold has previously stated the club are keen to bring in players to
play the "West Ham way" and on Thursday he said: "We are very working hard
to try and get Carl back here "We recognise this is an important season for
us, being in Europe, and we will go the extra mile to ensure we have got the
strongest possible squad we can muster." Sky sources understand another
player West Ham are interested in is the wantaway Paris Saint-Germain
playmaker Yohan Cabaye. The 29-year-old former Newcastle midfielder has
struggled to hold down a first-team place at the French champions but it is
understood former Toon boss Alan Pardew is interested in taking Cabaye to
Crystal Palace.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold tweets good news
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 1, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
David Gold is confident Andy Carroll will soon be ready to rejoin the
action. Despite the club's record signing being unable to join the action
tomorrow night after being injured at Southampton back in the winter, the co
chairman believes the big fella will soon be back. Carroll has spent most of
the summer back at the Chadwell Heath training ground working on his knee
and core fitness. And Gold tweeted: "Andy is training nearly every day he
has great determination and will soon be ready to play. Dg,"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Young Reece told" Now gain the respect"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reece Oxford – at 16 years and 198 days old – becomes the youngest ever
hammer to make his debut in a club first team shirt against Lusiantos
tonight and has been told: "We are now going to find out whether he's as
good as we think he is." Boss for the night Terry Westley said: "We'll find
out whether Reece can handle the pressure of playing in a big situation,
whether he's as good as we think he is. "We won't find that out sitting on
the bench or in the stand. He has that opportunity. He's now got to gain the
respect. The talking can stop and he can show people what he's about. "If
he's going to be one of the best ever [academy products], he's got some way
to go. James Tomkins isn't bad, Lampard, Cole and the rest weren't bad.
"[Reece] has got a bit to do but where he is at this age – England U17s
captain – he's done what he needed to do. He's got to take that into senior
football. Questions will be answered."
Westley claimed the decision for him to take charge of the team for the
early Europa League game was made during last season – before Bilic's
arrival and regardless of the identity of Sam Allardyce's successor. He
added: "You find you're in Europe, so someone has to put a plan together.
The club have been very proactive: 'Who's involved? What players come back
early?'
'We knew what the group would consist of. It was to make a smooth transition
for when the manager was put in place. 'We've got 35,000 who can't wait to
see the team, young and old. Slaven knows the players. He's been in Cork.
It's very much his first game."
Irons team: Randolph; O'Brien, Tomkins, Burke, Page, Amalfitano, Jarvis,
Poyet, Oxford, Zarate, Sakho.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ClaretandHugh's big match coverage
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
ClaretandHugh will be at Upton Park tonight for the Europa Cup match against
Lusiantos! Rob Shepherd will be our man in the press box and will bring his
report soon after the final whistle has blown on hopefully a big victory. We
will keep those unable to watch on the live West Ham TV stream updated with
flash highlight reports throughout the 90 minutes. ClaretandHugh
congratulates the club for making the stream available when it really should
have been shown on one or other of the various sports channels. Well done to
everybody involved at WHUFC and if you aren't a member of West Ham TV make
sure you join up for the game at www.whufc.com.
It's free by the way.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Remy not for sale say Chelsea
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reports claim that Jose Mourinho has blocked a £15million Loic Remy's exit
from Chelsea. Crystal Palace, Swansea and West Ham have have been linked in
the media with the £80,000-a-week French striker but now it appears Chelsea
has had second thoughts. Remy first team chances have been limited since
joining from QPR, the arrival of Falcao on loan from Monaco is also thought
to push him further down the pecking order of strikers. Chelsea initially
said they would not listen to offers less than £15m for the 28 year old but
have staged a U-turn. Remy scored seven league goals last season despite
making just six starts. As we revealed 7 days ago, a West Ham insider
revealed to Claret and Hugh we were never seriously looking at Remy.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song continues to train with West Ham
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Alex Song continues to train with West Ham despite his loan agreement coming
to an end. Yesterday he posted a video of himself on Instragram training in
a West Ham gym with Hammers new training shorts on. The video re-enforces
the view that the 27 year old midfielder has agreed personal terms with the
Hammers and it is now just Barcelona who stand in his way of a permanent
move to West Ham on free transfer. Song is expected to undergo a final
medical within the next 48 hours and sign permanently if Barcelona agree to
terminate his contract without compensation from West Ham
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Villa agree fee with Hammers target
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 2, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Aston Villa are believed to be close to finalising a £9million move for
Lille's Idrissa Gueye who has often been linked with West Ham as a possible
summer target. Reports claim Villa have agreed a fee with the French Ligue 1
side for the 25-year-old Senegalese midfielder. He is believed to be flying
to the UK tomorrow for talks and a medical in the midlands. Gueye has been
linked with West Ham, Crystal Palace,Southampton and Marseille in the summer
but appears Villa have come in late to conclude a deal. Reports in France
last week suggested Marseille were closing in on the signing of the Senegal
international, but more money was on offer from Villa and that has turned
the player's head it has been claimed.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender: Slaven has real presence
London 24
14:30 02 July 2015 Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Hammers defender James Tomkins says that new manager Slaven Bilic will be a
great success . Jose 'The Special One' Mourinho certainly has it, Sir Alex
Ferguson had it and of course the likes of Brian Clough and Bill Shankly had
it too. Some would say former West Ham boss Sam Allardyce had it too, though
that is a matter of debate, but defender James Tomkins insists that the new
man at the helm has it as well. Presence. That is the key to success for
many of the top managers, the thing that sets them apart from the other
bosses and Tomkins believes Slaven Bilic has it in abundance, despite only
having met him for a short period of time. "I met him briefly and he is
really excited to be with us. Everyone is looking forward to working with
him and he made a great name for himself as a player here," said the
26-year-old. Slaven Bilic the new West Ham manager "At the minute he is
training with the other lads and they are all saying how good training is.
He certainly has that presence like all good managers have. When he comes
into the room, you can hear a pin drop at times." Tomkins joins a long line
of illustrious players who have captained West Ham when he wears the armband
in the Europa League clash with FC Lusitans at Upton Park tonight. And for
someone who has been at the club since the age of seven it means so much to
lead the side out. "It's a massive honour and a good role for me to try and
mature as a player and help the younger lads," said Tomkins, who established
himself as one of the first choice centre-backs last season until injury
struck near the end of the season. "I am only 26, but I am 10 years older
than Reece Oxford who is playing tonight. The atmosphere is going to be
electric and hopefully I can help the younger lads come through it." Tomkins
is an important part of the squad that are looking to progress in the Europa
League qualifying rounds, but does he envy the first-team players that are
currently showing Bilic what they can do over in Ireland? "Everyone is
looking to start well and impress the new manager," he said. "I would be
sunning myself somewhere in a normal year, but for me it is different
because I was injured towards the end of last season and I wanted to play
more games. "To have competitive games this early is great and the manager
will be watching me there." Tomkins knows the significance of this season,
West Ham's final one at the Boleyn Ground before their move to the Olympic
Stadium, and the centre-back can't wait for it to get into full swing. "It
is going to be emotional as much as it will be brilliant this season," said
Tomkins. "We need to leave the season in the best possible place and that
means in Europe as well as in the Premier League." Bilic is likely to be the
key to success this season. He is known for playing high tempo football,
looking to win the ball back early as well as play with flair, something
West Ham fans have not been used to too often under Allardyce. But winning
games and success is still vital and Tomkins and other players know that
they now need to deliver.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: Watford, Tottenham enter race to sign FC Sion striker Moussa Konate
HITC
Billy Hawkins
Watford and Tottenham want Konate, who has also been linked with West Ham
and Newcastle United. As reported by Blick, Tottenham and Watford are keen
on signing Moussa Konate this summer, and the latter team have already
opened discussions with current club FC Sion concerning his transfer.
Christian Constantin, chairman of the Swiss club, confirmed in the article
that Gino Pozzo has already visited him to talk about a potential move for
Konate this summer. He said: "The Watford president has already visited me."
Konate, 22, is a full Senegalese international with an impressive goal
record for Sion. He signed for the club last summer from FK Krasnodar, and
went on to score a prolific 22 goals in 33 games for the club, across
domestic league and cup action, as well as the Europa League. He has also
played for Genoa and Maccabi Tel Aviv in his short career, and has netted
four times for Senegal in just nine games. The 22-year-old's impressive
campaign saw him garner interest from England earlier in the summer, with
both Newcastle and West Ham linked to him. The Daily Mirror reported that
the Hammers are considering a bid to partner him up with international
teammate Diafra Sakho, whilst the Mail has indicated a long-term interest in
the forward from Newcastle.
The latest interest from the Premier League suggests that both Spurs and
Watford want to bring him to England this summer, and the Hornets appear to
be in discussions with him already.
He may be unproven in England, but a prolific goal record and young age have
made him a key transfer target. Watford are leading the race for the
forward, and it remains to be seen whether any of the other three interested
parties formalise their interest into a concrete approach in the coming
weeks.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold is upbeat and Talking Sport
Posted on July 2, 2015 by Headmaster
claret&blues.com
We are indebted to our own Gavin Thurston (GoatyGav) for taking the time out
to précis the interview David Gold gave this morning to the Alan Brazil
Show. Now that we are post all of the 'I think West Ham are treating Sam
very unfairly' routine, it is good that Brazil was able to host Mr Gold and
even better that the co-Chairman sounded so confident that the club is
headed in the right direction. For the first time in years, you know what, I
agree with him!
Goaty's abbreviated transcript captures the main points as follows:
* Avoiding injuries this season (referenced our drop off last term).
* Youngsters coming through to help with squad.
* Doesn't know reason for Slav not being in charge tonight.
* A win tonight takes pressure off in the away leg next week.
* Potential bananna skin (referenced past losses to 4th tier teams in cup
competitions)
* Would be stunned if we didn't win
* What an evening it will be for the Andorrans playing in front of 35K+.
Their last gate was 68 fans
* Asked about Charlie Austin or AN other. Said they are going the extra mile
to make it happen
* Asked about new stadium – is Slaven a Risk? Why Change? Mr Allardyce was
the 2nd longest serving manager. Time for Change. He did what they asked of
him when we were down and stabilised us in the Prem.
* Likely Mr Allardyce will have a few months off rather than go for a job
now.
* Asked if Super Slav was NO1 choice. Replied that he was in the respect
that he ticked so many boxes. Ex player. Fan's favourite. Has Passion.
Understands the club. Has determination. Wants to play entertaining
football. Stats only say some of the story and when the owners met him they
were very impressed and he interviewed well.
* Many fans remember Brooking and Devonshire picking the ball up deep and
setting attacks going – Slav will provide football more in line with the
'West Ham Way'
* The OS will draw fans. Easy to get to. Better experience. Upton Park, by
comparison, a nightmare. Much better public transport links including 5
train stations.
* Ambition? DG said that they want to move on. Get the top 5 to look over
their shoulders. Owners have passion for this and that he feels it's 'Our
Time'. Spoke about the 'Correlation' of the size of a club's fan-base to
it's success as a club.
* Alan Brazil touched on Corporate Hospitality but they went to a break
before DS could answer.
* Kids a the OS – affordable. £99 for Season Ticket in OS. Investing in the
future of the club with young fans. Mickey Quinn commended DS for this –
making football affordable compared to ridiculous prices in Prem for
families.
* Sold out 'Club London' & spoke of potential embarrassment of not filling
the OS. At the moment they are hitting all their targets for sales for the
OS.
* Selling the club on in the future. Doesn't 'want' to do it but if a Super
Wealthy person comes in they may have to step aside and let it happen.
Ideally they would want to stay involved and ensure that the traditions are
retained.
* Asked about new season fixtures. Difficult start at Arsenal. Potential
difficult games against highly motivated, adrenaline filled, newly promoted
clubs.
* Payet was the owner's choice however Slaven "endorsed" the signing. He is
very much an exciting "West Ham Way" player.
* Alan Brazil referenced wise spending and how well West Ham did last Summer
in the transfer market. DS said that all 9 signings "met expectation" and
two "exceeded expectation." Spoke of Diafra Sakho as an example.
* Jenks – working hard to keep him. Cresswell great season but potential
even better. Made comparisons of current full backs to Julian Dicks, Ray
Stewart and Frank Lampard Snr.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 'working hard' to get Carl Jenkinson back from Arsenal, confirms
David Gold
Evening Standard
DAMIAN SPELLMAN
Published: 02 July 2015 Updated: 12:28, 02 July 2015
West Ham co-chairman David Gold has confirmed the club is working to secure
Carl Jenkinson's return to Upton Park. The Arsenal full-back spent last
season on loan with the Hammers and manager Slaven Bilic is hopeful of
retaining his services for the new campaign. Jenkinson, 23, who made 36
appearances last season, has been linked with a series of potential suitors
this season with Southampton and Sunderland among those clubs touted as
possible competitors to West Ham for his signature. The Londoners have
already been busy in the summer transfer market, landing Marseille winger
Dimitri Payet, Sampdoria midfielder Pedro Obiang and Birmingham keeper
Darren Randolph as they attempt to manage the dual demands of domestic and
European campaigns.
Gold said: "We recognise this is an important season for us and being in
Europe we will go the extra mile to ensure we have got the strongest
possible squad we can muster."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham close in on transfer deals for Barcelona's Alex Song and Arsenal's
Carl Jenkinson
Simon Osborn for Metro.co.uk
Thursday 2 Jul 2015 10:24 am
West Ham hope to announce two new signings in the next 48-hours. The Hammers
are set to tie up a permanent move for midfielder Alex Song, who is expected
to join from Barcelona on a free transfer, and a one-year loan-deal Arsenal
defender Carl Jenkinson. Both players spent last season on-loan at Upton
Park and, according to the Daily Telegraph, will both return to play a role
in Slaven Bilic's new-look side. Keeping Song represents a major coup for
the Hammers as Chelsea were also thought to be in the race to sign the
27-year-old former Arsenal midfielder.
England under-21 international Jenkinson turned down a move to Sunderland
last month as he wanted to stay in East London.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham take Wimbledon's Daniel Agyei on trial amid Chelsea interest
By Jack Watson
Posted on July 2, 2015
squawka.com
West Ham United have offered AFC Wimbledon striker Daniel Agyei a trial amid
interest from Chelsea, according to the Daily Mail. The Hammers are having a
big summer after waving goodbye to Sam Allardyce and replacing him with
Slaven Bilic, who almost won the Turkish Super Lig with Besiktas last season
as well as knocking Liverpool out of the Europa League. He's a well-known
manager in England having played over here for West Ham during his playing
days, plus he was Croatian manager when Steven McClaren's England failed to
qualify for the European Championships in 2008. They're now seeking ways to
make improvements to their squad too and have offered Agyei the chance to
shine, who is clearly impressing scouts if Premier League champions Chelsea
have also taken a look at him. Agyei scored 29 goals for AFC Wimbledon's
Under-21s' side last season so clearly knows where the goal is and how stick
the ball in it.
West Ham made two great attacking signings of Diafra Sakho and Enner
Valencia last season and they both made exceptional starts before fading
away.
Sakho ended the season with 10 goals while Valencia finished with six fewer
on four, so adding another goal-poacher to the mix can only be a good thing
for the Hammers and for Bilic who will aim for a top ten finish next season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: West Ham set £8m asking price for Stewart Downing amid reported
Newcastle interest
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham will reportedly sell Stewart Downing this summer - if they receive
£8m. According to the Daily Mirror, West Ham are willing to entertain offers
of around £8m for midfielder Stewart Downing this summer. Downing, 30,
enjoyed a productive season for West Ham with six goals in 37 games, but now
faces the Upton Park exit after new manager Slaven Bilic brought in
Marseille playmaker Dimitri Payet. Frenchman Payet will be the undoubted
first choice playmaker next season, meaning Downing could be forced out of
the side - and he is attracting Premier League interest. The Daily Star
recently reported that both Newcastle and Sunderland are interested in
signing the England international, with a battle potentially ensuing between
the two North East rivals. Now, the Daily Mirror report that West Ham would
be willing to sell Downing this summer - if they receive an offer of £8m,
having already rejected an offer of £6m from Sunderland.
Money well spent?
Downing played well for West Ham last season, flourishing as the central
playmaker in a 4-3-1-2 system under ex-Hammers boss Sam Allardyce. If either
Sunderland or Newcastle have plans to play Downing in that role, then he
could well be a good signing - but there are plenty of concerns. Downing
turns 31 later this month, and forking out £8m for a player of that age with
little resale value should be of great concern, especially for Newcastle,
who need to be signing young, hungry players, rather than paying so much for
a player who could be in decline soon.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Obiang and Hendrie train for West Ham, along with 16-year-old Reece Oxford
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham have been preparing for tonight's Europa League fixture. West Ham
United have been busy training in yesterday's searing July heat ahead of
their Europa League qualifying match against Lusitanos. Led by Slaven Bilic
and first team coach Julian Dicks, the players were put through their paces
as they prepare for their early season kick-off. Featuring in the training
session were new signings central midfielder Pedro Obiang, who joined from
Sampdoria, and full-back Stephen Hendrie, who joined from Scottish side
Hamilton. Neither are in line to start for the club on Thursday evening,
with academy manager Terry Westley announced the starting line-up at a press
conference, published by the Hammers' official Twitter account, with the
team listed below.
West Ham starting XI to play Lusitanos: Randolph, O'Brien, Tomkins, Burke,
Page, Oxford, Amalfitano, Poyet, Jarvis, Sakho, Zarate.
Mauro Zarate has a second chance to impress after falling out of favour
under Sam Allardyce last season, and Diego Poyet also goes straight into the
side after returning from the under-20 World Cup where he starred for
Uruguay. The most notable name set to appear on the teamsheet in England
under-17 star Reece Oxford, just 16, who is in line to make his first start
for the Hammers. Oxford is pictured below in training with young teammates
Emmanuel Onariase and Jordan Brown.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Crystal Palace and West Ham in battle to sign Yohan Cabaye
Both clubs are willing to meet PSG's £10 million asking price
telegraph.co.uk
Jason Burt 10:22PM BST 01 Jul 2015
Crystal Palace and West Ham United are going head-to-head to try and bring
the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye back to the Premier League.
Both clubs have indicated they are willing to meet PSG's £10 million asking
price for the French international who has been told he can leave although
Palace manager Alan Pardew's strong relationship with the 29-year-old – who
he coached at Newcastle United – may prove decisive. Although Cabaye left
Newcastle under difficult circumstances he maintained a good friendship with
Pardew who wants to make him one of three significant signings at Palace
this summer as the club aims to consolidate its top-flight status. Palace
have been in talks with PSG for some time but they are not going to have a
free run at Cabaye with West Ham hoping that their potential – with the move
to the Olympic Stadium next season and the arrival of Slaven Bilic as their
new manager – could prove decisive.
Cabaye was signed for £19million by PSG from Newcastle in January 2014 but
has fallen out of the first-team reckoning with the French champions having
informed him he can find a new club.
Cabaye needs to re-establish himself as a regular first-team player having
been warned that his he will not regain a place in the France squad – ahead
of Euro 2016 – unless he does so.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham step up pursuit to bring Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson back on
loan... and give trial to Wimbledon striker Daniel Agyei
By SIMON JONES FOR MAILONLINE and MATT MALTBY FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 20:48, 1 July 2015 | UPDATED: 22:05, 1 July 2015
West Ham have stepped up their pursuit to bring Arsenal defender Carl
Jenkinson back on loan following his successful spell last season. The right
back impressed at Upton Park and helped the Hammers secure a 12th placed
finish in the Premier League. And with a lack of full back options,
Sportsmail understands the east London club are keen on signing Jenkinson
for a second-consecutive season. West Ham have stepped up their pursuit to
bring Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson back on loan in the summer The England
international made 36 appearances in all competitions last season but is
behind Hector Bellerin and Mathieu Debuchy in the pecking order at Arsenal.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is happy to allow Jenkinson to get more matches
under his belt on a temporary basis. West Ham United's Carl Jenkinson
applauds the fans after the final whistle during the Barclays Premier League
match at Upton Park, London. Meanwhile, the Hammers are expected to give a
trial to AFC Wimbledon striker Daniel Agyei, who has also courted the
interest of Chelsea, on Thursday. Teenager Agyei scored 29 goals for AFC
Wimbledon U18s last season and will be given the opportunity to prove his
worth at West Ham.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reece Oxford will become youngest ever player to represent West Ham by
featuring against FC Lusitans at tender age of 16
By ANTHONY HAY FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 21:17, 1 July 2015 | UPDATED: 07:01, 2 July 2015
Reece Oxford will write his name in West Ham's history books by making his
competitive debut against against FC Lusitans at the tender age of 16.
Oxford has been included in West Ham's experimental starting line-up to take
on the Andorran side in Thursday's UEFA Europa League first round qualifying
tie. England Under 17 starlet Oxford will break Billy Williams' record.
Williams had held the title of West Ham's youngest ever player for 93 years.
WEST HAM XI VS FC LUSITANS
Randolph; O'Brien, Tomkins (c), Burke, Page; Amalfitano, Poyet, Oxford,
Jarvis; Sakho, Zarate
Williams made his competitive debut at the age of 16 years and 221 days,
while Oxford will make his competitive bow at 16 years and 198 days. Oxford
came close to making his first senior appearance for the Hammers during the
2014-15 campaign. He was an unused substitute for West Ham's Barclays
Premier League matches against Liverpool, Manchester United, Southampton,
Queens Park Rangers and Burnley as well as in the east London side's Capital
One Cup defeat by Sheffield United in August. West Ham academy manager Terry
Westley will take charge of Thursday's match at Upton Park as Slaven Bilic
has decided to watch the European tie from the stands.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'We'll see if he's as good as we think' West Ham wonderkid set for debut
London 24
06:50 02 July 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham are set to hand a competitive debut to 16-year-old Reece Oxford in
tonight's Europa League first qualifying game v Andorran side Lusitanos. A
full house at Upton Park will watch a Hammers XI, featuring a number of
first team players, take to the field with more than five weeks to go until
the start of the Premier League season. One man who will also start is
England under-17 captain Oxford, who will line up in midfield alongside
Diego Poyet. The youngster signed a new contract with the club last year
after being linked with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, and academy boss
Terry Westley who will take charge against Lusitanos is hoping he can cope
with the occasion. "We will find out about him," Westley said. "We will find
out whether he can handle the pressure of the big situation, whether he is
as good as we think he is. "We won't know that with him on the bench or in
the stand. "He has an opportunity and the talking has to stop. "If he is
going to be one of the best we have produced he has to be some player with
Tomkins here and then Lampard, Cole, Ferdinand and the rest weren't bad.
"Where he is at his age, he has done exactly what he needs to do. "Some
questions will be answered tomorrow." Some areas of West Ham fans were
disappointed not to see more academy players given a chance under Sam
Allardyce. However Westley thinks former boss Big Sam has left the younger
players in a good position going into this campaign. "You've got to be good
enough," he added. "I spent three years at the Premier League and my job was
to bring through more youngsters. "They have to be good enough but you do
need opportunities and that is why this competition is such a good chance
for us. "People now have to step forward and prove they are good enough. "I
think Sam was good in that respect, right at the end with Reece Burke
playing and Reece Oxford was around the squad. "That is why I was brought to
the club, to have three or four home-grown players playing in the Olympic
Stadium next season, that is what this club is about. "We have to try and
develop the players to be good enough for that."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'His knowledge of European players is fantastic' West Ham transfer targets
tipped to be a success
London 24
07:10 02 July 2015 Brad Pinard
Slaven Bilic has an extraordinary knowledge of top European players,
according to Hammers coach Terry Westley. The east enders take on Lusitanos
in their opening Europa League clash of the season tonight and Westley will
take charge. Bilic is on his way back from Cork, where the Hammers first
team is based at present, and will fly back out to work with his proper
squad after the game. The Hammers have already nabbed Pedro Obiang and
Dimitri Payet from Europe and more are set to follow with two new signings
expected before the start of next week. Bilic has a superb knowledge of
players, having worked in different countries and at international level,
and he can bring that to Upton Park. "His knowledge of European players is
fantastic," Westley said. The way he talks about players, he is a very
intelligent manager and I am sure he will bring that to the job. "He has
been very respectful. "He knows we know the players and what we are doing.
He has been respectful in terms of training and setting the team up. "We
have spoken about the team and what shape he wants to play, I've no doubt
tomorrow he will make changes if he wants to."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM JOIN RACE FOR STRIKER
West Ham have joined the heavily contested race to sign striker Chris Martin
this summer.
Several other Premier League clubs are interested in the Derby man.
Rob Mullis 7 hours ago
ironscircle.com
According to reports, West Ham are prepared to bring Derby County striker,
Chris Martin, to East London, but will face competition from several Premier
League clubs.
Slaven Bilic's new employers will be looking to go head-to-head with
Martin's former boss at Derby, Steve McClaren, who has recently taken over
at Newcastle United. Crystal Palace, Swansea City and West Bromwich Albion
are also looking to bring the Scotland international up to top-flight
football. The striker himself may prefer to join Alan Pardew at Palace,
where he scored 7 goals in 26 games between 2011 and 2012.
West Ham though, are looking to bolster the squad ahead of a first European
campaign in 9 years, where striking options will be tested to the full and
goals are a must. Chris Martin has scored a total of 45 goals in two years
at Rams; more than any Hammers striker in that time.
Derby County may face a serious challenge to hold onto the 26 year-old who
might offer better value for money than QPR's Charlie Austin, who has been
rumoured to be in Claret and Blue sights.
None the less, if Martin does join, West Ham may be forced to offload one of
the barrage of strikers available for this season, boosted by the returns of
Mauro Zarate and Modibo Maiga.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Alex Song set for West Ham return after exercising in NEW club training
shorts despite still being on Barcelona's books
By SEAN GALLAGHER FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 01:16, 2 July 2015 | UPDATED: 01:40, 2 July 2015
Alex Song has fuelled speculation that he is closing in on a return to West
Ham after uploading a video on Instagram of him training in the club's new
training shorts in the gym on Wednesday. The 27-year-old, who impressed for
the Hammers during a loan spell last season, is believed to have been at the
club's training base when doing the exercise drills. The shorts, pictured
below, are available to buy via the club's official superstore for £27.99.
As Sportsmail revealed on Monday, the Cameroon international has agreed
personal terms with the east London side and is now awaiting a medical ahead
of a permanent move. A fee is yet to be agreed with Barcelona for the
former Arsenal midfielder though, with the Hammers keen to land Song on a
free transfer ideally. Despite this the transfer is expected to go through
and could be completed within the next 72 hours. New West Ham boss Slaven
Bilic is also hopeful of landing former loanee Carl Jenkinson from the
Emirates, as well as Monaco defender Aymen Abdennour and Lille midfielder
Idrissa Gueye.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
