Daily WHUFC News - 11th July 2015

Ogbonna completes Hammers move
WHUFC.com

West Ham United are delighted to announce that Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna has completed his transfer to the Club. Ogbonna, 27, arrives on a four-year deal after joining from the Italian Serie A side for an undisclosed fee. The Italy international is the second Serie A player to make the move to the Boleyn Ground this summer, following Pedro Obiang's transfer from Sampdoria and he cannot wait to get going. He told whufc.com: "I am delighted to have joined the Club. I wanted to play in the Premier League and am happy to be in London. My heart told me that the right decision was to play for West Ham United. "I cannot wait to start working under Mr Bilic and with my new team-mates. I feel ready for this new adventure."

A strong and powerful defender, Ogbonna won a host of admirers during his time with Juventus, in which he collected two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia and a Supercoppa Italiana. Born in Cassino in the Lazio region of Italy, Ogbonna began his youth career in his home town before being spotted by Torino at the age of 14.He made his top flight debut at 18, and after gaining further experience with a loan spell at Crotone, he returned to establish himself in the Torino side. The Granata suffered relegation in 2009, but Ogbonna helped them reclaim their spot at the top table before moving across town to Juventus in 2013.

The 6'3 defender continued his progress with the Old Lady, making 25 appearances in his debut season at Juventus and backing that up with the same number of league appearances last term. He picked up league winners medals in both of his seasons with Juve, and was on the bench as they lost out to Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League final in May. A natural at centre back who can also play at left back, Ogbonna has been capped ten times by his country and was a member of the Italy squad which finished as runners-up at UEFA Euro 2012.

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Angelo Ogbonna - ten fast facts
WHUFC.com

Want to know more about our latest arrival Angelo Ogbonna? We've compiled ten fast facts to get you up to speed here.

Angelo Ogbonna has spent his entire professional career to date in Turin, save for a brief loan spell at Crotone when he was a youngster.

He was the first player to have captained Torino and then transfer to their city rivals Juventus.

His home town of Cassino, in the Lazio region of central Italy, is best known as the site of the Battle of Monte Cassino during World War
II, which resulted in tremendous Allied and German losses and the near total destruction of the town itself.

He wore the captain's armband for the first time at Torino as a 22-year-old and helped the Grenata reclaim their place in Serie A with promotion in 2012.

Ogbonna made his Italy debut when still a Serie B player, featuring in a 2011 friendly against Poland.

He was part of the Azzurri's squad for UEFA Euro 2012, and although he did not feature he has a runners-up medal from their run to the final.

Juventus paid €13m to sign him from Torino in the summer of 2013, ending a seven-year spell with his first club.

His two years at Juve were trophy laden, with two Serie A medals, a Coppa Italia and a Supercoppa Italiana in his trophy cabinet.

He is known as a strong and powerful defender, with outstanding physical attributes.

A natural at centre back, the 27-year-old has also featured at left back on occasion, due to his pace, technique and distribution skills.

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Lee - 'There's no better feeling'
WHUFC.com

The Estadi Comunal d'Andorra la Vella is a venue that Elliot Lee will never forget. The 1,300-seater stadium might be among the more humble in Europe, but its picturesque setting in the Pyrenees mountains will be forever etched on Lee's mind after he scored his first senior goal for West Ham United there on Thursday night. The 20-year-old's first half strike helped his team overcome Diafra Sakho's dismissal and complete a 4-0 aggregate success over a stubborn FC Lusitans. "I didn't care where my first goal came!" Lee beamed. "I've worked my socks off and I've been at this Club since I was eight years old, so to score on my full debut is a fantastic feeling and I'm really happy with it. "I ran off Jarvo and I love being in that position on the left hand side of the box. I opened my body up and thankfully I got it right this time - it's gone in the bottom corner and I've gone off celebrating with all the lads. There's no better feeling than that. "I've been waiting for a night like this for a while. I've had ups and downs at this Club and have had to be patient, as I know footballers have to be. "I've never given up and I know I've not made it or anything now, but hopefully I've put myself in the Gaffer's eyeline and can build on this performance."

Lee ploughed a lone furrow for a long 76 minutes following Diafra Sakho's early red card and he was glad that the hard work of all the team was rewarded with victory. He added: "After Diafra was sent off we knew it was going to be a tough task, but we knew we were fully capable of doing it. I was happy to take the pressure off the lads by scoring the goal - that's what I'm here for and I'm really pleased for the boys that we're through to the next round. "I saw their players trying to get into young Reece Oxford and I just told him to keep his head and he listened really well. We kept our cool and have come away with a clean sheet and a 1-0 win."

Lee concluded by paying tribute to the 500 Hammers fans who travelled over land and sea to follow their team in Andorra. He said: "I don't know if the fans realise how much help they were to the lads today. It's a massive credit to them coming out this far. It's a two hour flight, then a three or four hour bus journey so massive credit to all the fans and I'm really happy we could get the win for them."

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Cullen delighted with full senior debut
WHUFC.com

West Ham United midfielder Josh Cullen described his delight at making his full senior debut for his boyhood club. After impressing as a second half substitute in the first leg last week, the 19-year-old avid West Ham fan had a lively game at the heart of midfield, playing 85 minutes in a 1-0 win over FC Lusitans in Andorra. Speaking after the match, Cullen said: "I'm delighted to have made my full debut. I was delighted to play at Upton Park last week and now to make me full debut is great. The main thing tonight was that we got through, we came here to do a job and we did that. "Personally I thought I did fairly well. It was a tough game. I think there's more to come from myself and more to come to from the other younger lads."

Despite holding a three goal cushion, the Hammers had to work hard for their win after Diafra Sakho was given a straight red card for an off the ball incident. However, the Hammers regrouped and Elliot Lee, who was also making his senior debut, curled an effort into the far corner to seal the win. Cullen continued to assess the team performance, saying: "I think we played well under difficult circumstances, obviously the sending off made it a lot harder, the pitch wasn't great either, so it was a tough match. We've come through both games, and now we're through to the next round comfortably."

The Hammers will now face Maltese side Birkirkara who beat Armenian outfit Ulisses in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League. So far, the Europa League has proved to be a great opportunity to blood several highly rated Academy prospects. In the past week, Cullen, alongside Reece Oxford, Lewis Page and Elliot Lee have all started, while Djair Parfitt-Williams and Amos Nasha both featured off the bench. "Up next we've got a nice trip to Malta to look forward to and enjoy. Hopefully we'll improve as we get used to playing with each other and get through to the further rounds. "The Europa League is a great chance for all the younger players to show what they can do. It's good that we've been given a chance and hopefully that continues. It's a good opportunity for us younger players to try and get established in the first team. "It's been a great week for the Academy. It just shows that there is still a production line into the first team. We had three or four young players out there today so it's brilliant for the Academy and the U21s. It's time us and others pushed on."

Among the 500 strong West Ham contingent was Cullen's father, Anthony, who made a mammoth 44-hour round trip in support of his son. "I haven't had a chance to speak to my dad yet, he's had to shoot off. He's got a 22 hour coach journey to get home. He made the trip to come out and watch me so I'm very grateful."

While it may only be the early days of the Slaven Bilic era, Cullen praised the effect that the Croat's arrival has already had. "Slaven's arrival has freshened things up. Everyone has tried to impress him, he's got a great presence about him. I've enjoyed working with him so far and hopefully that continues. "This is only the start for me, hopefully I can push on and get a few games in the cups and of course the League."

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Joint-Chairman: Ogbonna is a great signing
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is thrilled to have secured the signing of Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna and feels he will be a crucial part of the first-team squad next season. Ogbonna, 27, was being chased by a number of top European Clubs, but the Hammers won the race to clinch his signature. The Italy international became the fifth new arrival this summer after he signed a four-year deal on Friday and will add even more competition to the defence. Mr Sullivan believes the Club have showed a real statement of intent once again as they look to bring the best players to the Boleyn Ground. Sullivan said: "He is a great signing for the Club and shows the ambition we have getting yet another international player for a sizeable fee. "I think this strengthens us in a department we have had injuries in season after season and been left short."

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London calling for young Hammers
WHUFC.com

West Ham United U18 will play London rivals Fulham in their opening game of the Barclays U18 Premier League 2015/16 season on Saturday 8 August. The young Hammers will be looking to set the record straight at Motspur Park after the Cottagers did the double over the Irons last season. The following week, the Hammers face another London derby when they host Tottenham Hotspur in their first home game of the new campaign at Little Heath on Saturday 15 August. The Hammers last home game of the season is against new boys Swansea City on Saturday 30 January, before a final away game at Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday 6 February. Last term, the Hammers finished sixth in the South Division, just two points off from qualifying from the Tier One Play-Off Group.
The Barclays U18 Premier League South Division comprises of: Arsenal, Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Fulham, Leicester City, Norwich City, Reading, Southampton, Swansea City, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United.

All home games are open to the public, admission and parking are both FREE so come and see the future stars of West Ham United!

We will have widespread coverage throughout the season of the U18s campaign, with previews, match reports, interviews and all things Academy related on www.whufc.com.

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Angelo Ogbonna: West Ham sign Juventus defender
BBC.co.uk

West Ham have signed Italy centre-back Angelo Ogbonna from Juventus for a reported £10m. The 27 year old has signed a four-year contract with the Hammers. "My heart told me that the right decision was to play for West Ham United," he said. Ogbonna, who joined Juve from city rivals Torino in 2013, made 31 appearances for the club last season and was an unused substitute in the Champions League final. He becomes West Ham's fifth signing of the summer. Pedro Obiang, Dmitri Payet, Darren Randolph and Stephen Hendrie are the other players to have joined new manager Slaven Bilic's squad. Ogbonna has won 10 caps for Italy and was a member of the Euro 2012 squad, although he did not play.

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Angel of the South
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 10th July 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United have completed the signing of Juventus centre half Angelo Ogbonna. The imposing 27-year-old defender has joined West Ham for a fee in the region of £8.5million, having been made surplus to requirements at Juve for whom he was an unused substitute in May's Champions League Final defeat to Barcelona. "I am delighted to have joined the club," he told whufc.com. "I wanted to play in the Premier League and am happy to be in London. My heart told me that the right decision was to play for West Ham United. "I cannot wait to start working under Mr Bilic and with my new team-mates. I feel ready for this new adventure."

Already with Ten Italian caps under his belt, Ogbonna rejected the opportunity to join Everton in favour of moving to West Ham with whom he has signed a four-year contract.

Five Things You Didn't Know About Angelo Ogbonna

* He became an Italian citizen shortly after his 18th birthday

* He made his Serie A debut for Torino at the age of 18, one of four appearances in his debut season

* In 2008, he nearly died after driving his car off a bridge into a river in the early hours of the morning

* He made his full international debut in Italy's 2-0 win over Poland in November 2011

* In 2013 he angered Torino fans by becoming their first captain to join rivals Juve

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Old Lady thank Angelo
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 10th July 2015
By: Staff Writer

Juventus have delivered a 'thank you' message to new Hammer Angelo Ogbonna on the day he signed a four-year deal with the Irons. The 27-year-old Italian international joined West Ham in an €11million switch from the Champions League runners-up earlier today - and the Old Lady were swift to issue a message wishing Ogbonna the very best of luck in the Premier League.

"Juventus Football Club can today confirm that Angelo Ogbonna has completed a permanent transfer to English Premier League side West Ham United, who will pay a fee of €11 million to be spread over the next three financial years," read a statement on the club's website.

"Ogbonna tasted immediate success on his debut in the black and white stripes, helping his new team-mates to keep a clean sheet as the Bianconeri romped to a thrilling 4-0 Italian Super Cup final triumph over Lazio in the capital. "Two Scudetto titles and Coppa Italia silverware were to follow for the Italian international, whose class and composure at the heart of defence shone through during his 55 appearances in all competitions for Juventus. "When Ogbonna was deployed the Bianconeri lost just three of 41 Serie A games, winning 30, and last season saw him record the team's best individual pass completion rate with an impressive figure of 89.46 per cent. "He will now embark on a new challenge in the Premier League with Slaven Bilic's West Ham United, who play their final season at Upton Park before moving to London's Olympic Stadium for the start of the 2016/17 campaign. "Everyone associated with Juventus would like to thank Angelo for his efforts over the past two years and wish him all the very best in his new adventure."

Reaction to Ogbonna's departure has been mixed amongst Juve supporters. Whilst many admit they will not be sad to see him leave, others have maintained that his sale will be to the detriment of the club.

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I don't hate mine, I hate yours
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 10th July 2015
By: Matt Bell

I have written and commented on my optimism for the season ahead and how things feel good around West Ham (at the moment).

With the final season at the Boleyn starting in a month and the release of the fixture list, there were some polls as to who we would want as our final home game opposition (the majority of votes was for Spurs).

I have a mate at work who supports Palace and he is getting excited about them signing Cabaye. We just agreed to disagree on our best respective 11s against each other, so we settled it with a bet. £10 a point on whoever finishes higher. Palace or West Ham. (He thinks he is taking £100 off me; I think he'll owe me £80 by the end of season).

As much as I want to let my giddy summer hopes get the better of me, I'm not making that bet with my Spurs-supporting colleagues as I'm loathe to give them anything other than stick.

I ignored the chat from the Arsenal lot as that's just a daft bet to me, but it did lead to some interesting banter/abuse around the work place. The topic was "Who do you hate the most?"

Now I'm not encouraging hate comments about Phil Jones' gurning monstrosity of a face or how Ashley Young falls over at a change of wind, or even how John Terry has an opposition fans' dream family - but more a case of the clubs or players that really get on your nerves.

It just seems some players really grate and having read the arguments for and against Kevin Nolan (who still is our club captain by the way) I thought I'd get some feedback on who winds you up.

Be nostalgic if you wish, as I remember quite liking David Speedie but hating John Fashanu!

As a Dagenham born, West Ham fan I've grown up encouraged to hate Millwall. I hated them when they smashed us 4-1 a few seasons ago and jumped for joy when Zavon (Hines) knocked them out of the Carling Cup.

However we don't play them very often and I only know a couple of Millwall fans (I try to keep it to a minimum). And as I'm not old enough to remember the strikes that caused the rivalry, I'm really not that bothered by them.

I hate Everton - because they usually beat us and it gives me the right hump. Their latest manager really winds me up when he gives a post match interview (what game was he watching?) They did us again last season with a last minute goal and I pouted the rest of the weekend, even though I know I'm old enough to get over it.

I don't hate Manchester United as I used to watch them in the Champions League. I didn't really detest many of their players and I respected the ones that were top players. I include Gary Neville in that (of course not Phil). I didn't hate Roy Keane, I just thought he was a dickhead who took himself too seriously.

I have a couple of Man U mates that were even born in the North, but again I try to keep them to a minimum. The impression they give is that when Man U were winning every year that they as people were somehow more successful because they supported them - which is a pretty weak claim and one easily shot down when they were born and raised hundreds of miles away.

Some say it was because they had Irish players, some because Bryan Robson was England Captain. I say b*llocks to all of it - of course you don't have to support your local team, but just admit you chose a club because they won or you like their badge.

It's the fakes that make the banter dry and I prefer verbal jousting with the hardcore supporters, as they have real passion and pride and long memories of heroes,victories, defeats and injustice which makes the football chat fun.

I will admit though that I wish my dad had knocked up my mum somewhere else, maybe Barcelona, even Munich just so I could righteously claim them as my home town team. West Ham just effect me sometimes, the way a Joy Division album on a Monday morning to work does where you won't smile until at least Tuesday.

I really don't like Spurs because they carry a sense of entitlement about them (which they also feel about us when we start with the '66 West Ham World Cup-winning team digs).

I ignore the racial side of abuse as that ugliness just leads to a side to the game some of the youngsters find funny - whereas in reality getting a dart in your ear (Man Utd) or being covered by a piss-filled balloon (Scousers) doesn't make me come over all nostalgic.

Watching a hobbit get into fights with a Canadian in the Green Street movies simply doesn't give you the terror of being stuck alone on a Chelsea train hoping they just wouldn't smell the West Ham on you.

I don't care either away about Leicester, West Brom, Villa, Sunderland, Newcastle, Man City and I do really like/respect/admire Swansea. I don't like Stoke but that's based on their fans. Of course I don't like Leeds... who does? On the fans side, I'll add Birmingham City and Cardiff City.

My rivalry is mainly based around the London teams, I've even said before in a small-minded mood that I'd draw or lose games if it meant home and way wins against every London club and away wins at Goodison Park, Anfield and Old Trafford.

I would love to see us smash Spurs, would like to see us turn Arsenal over in the first game (Sanchez is out so I'm now doing voodoo nonsense on Cazorla and Cech) and of course do the unlikely double over Chelsea - but really it's Spurs that I want to beat.

Finally, when I use the term 'hate' it's in a diluted form in the same way I'll say I love biscuits or Swamp People. So if you really need to vent fury at that term, I suggest you read the Mail and make comments on their site.

I like my choice, I support my club and for every Upson there is a Bilic, for every Dyer there is a Tevez... don't always have to have ten years' service to leave a lasting impression. We all remember Marco Boogers, we had high hopes, he cut Gary Neville in half, went AWOL and is now reported to be making moonshine from rain water and lady dolls from old car parts in a caravan park deep in Holland (I made that last part up).

So stand up if you hate Man U, or just if you want to rid yourself of a 30-year hatred of a particular player. Sometimes it helps to let it out! I feel much better already, going to have a biscuit...

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'Mission accomplished' for West Ham after beating Lusitans
Last Updated: 09/07/15 11:07pm
SSN

West Ham progressed into the second round of qualifying for this season's Europa League, with Terry Westley hailing their victory over Lusitans as "mission accomplished". The Hammers were 3-0 up heading to Andorra, but any thoughts of a simple evening were expelled when Diafra Sakho, who scored two of those goals, was sent off with less than 15 minutes gone. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors still sealed a 1-0 win on the night as Elliot Lee grabbed his first senior West Ham goal to complete a 4-0 aggregate victory. Westley, who was again in charge of the team even though new boss Slaven Bilic travelled with the team and took up a place in the dug-out, was again pleased with how the team performed. "Mission accomplished, you would say, over the two legs," he said. "We asked a group of players to return to work on June 22 and the cohesion between the senior and younger players was absolutely first class.
"The second leg was made very different after 10 minutes and we ended up having to play with 10 men. "I've got total respect for the senior players and how they went about it in both games. We kept two clean sheets and the way the two centre-halves dealt with everything they threw at us, they were determined to keep the ball out of the net."

James Tomkins again skippered the side, with Joey O'Brien making his 100th West Ham appearance and the likes of Matt Jarvis and Morgan Amalfitano also included. But it was Lee, on his full debut, who coolly slotted home after 21 minutes to settle the game shortly after Sakho had been dismissed for an off-the-ball incident with Lusitans defender Moises San Nicolas. "It was that type of match, a bit niggly," added Westley. "There were lots of times when it got stopped and people rolling around on the ground and it was interrupted a lot. "We said to the young ones that they really have to learn in Europe that if you are petulant, you can get yourself a yellow card and put yourself under pressure. "I have to say I didn't see the incident as it was so far away from where the ball way. It's not even on our filming of the game by our analysts. It's a lesson learnt and it made it harder for the remaining 10 players."

The Hammers rarely threatened again, although Lee bent a curling effort wide in the dying stages before Tomkins had to hack a Alfi Conteh-Lacalle free-kick off the line. The second qualifying round will see Bilic's side - which will likely include a number of first-team regulars who have now returned from a training camp in Ireland - take on Birkirkara of Malta, with the first leg at Upton Park next Thursday.

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Lee: 'I've had ups and downs but never given up'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

There won't be a fan anywhere who be anything but delighted for Elliot Lee after his his first senior goal for West Ham United in Andorra. And after last night's game – wearing a million miles wide – grin he told the official site: "I've worked my socks off and I've been at this club since I was eight years old, so to score on my full debut is a fantastic feeling and I'm really happy with it. "I ran off Jarvo and I love being in that position on the left hand side of the box. "I opened my body up and thankfully I got it right this time – it's gone in the bottom corner and I've gone off celebrating with all the lads. There's no better feeling than that. "I've been waiting for a night like this for a while. I've had ups and downs at this Club and have had to be patient, as I know footballers have to be. "I've never given up and I know I've not made it or anything now, but hopefully I've put myself in the gaffer's eyeline and can build on this performance."

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Ogbonna deal threatens Tomkins
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Top defender Angelo Ogbonna joined the Hammers this afternoon and immediately announced: "I know this is the right decision." Shortly after ClaretandHugh reported the player was completing a medical he had started last night alerted our readers the player was set to sign this afternoon. Having done so the 27 year old former Juventus man declared: "I am delighted to have joined the lub. I wanted to play in the Premier League and am happy to be in London. My heart told me that the right decision was to play for West Ham United. "I cannot wait to start working under Mr Bilic and with my new team-mates. I feel ready for this new adventure."

The Hammers had seen off late bids for the player from Everton and Southampton as the Italy star stuck by his guns to sign for us. And a source close to the negotiations said: "We had to get a top quality central defender in. The manager had said at his job interview that was his first requirement if he was to take the team on. "The board have backed him to the hilt despite agreeing a new long term deal earlier in the year with James Tomkins who now looks to have a serious fight on his hands with James Collins for a starting spot."

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Collison: "I'd love to see Downing stay"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Jack Collison admits it will be a "bit strange" turning out for the club where it all started – Peterborough United – against the club he loves with a passion, West Ham United tomorrow at London Road. He said: "I still have so much feeling for the Irons but my whole intention is to help take The Posh into the Championship this season. "I was here as a kid and to be back feels comfortable but to be playing against all my old team mates is bound to be a bit odd." With reports circulating that Stewart Downing will miss tomorrow's game because of a likely switch from Upton Park to the north east Collis declared: "It would be a shame if he left. He was brilliant in the early part of last season. I'd love to see him stay but he must do what's right for him."

Jack – who will be joining ClaretandHugh and our new podcast for the new season is delighted to see Slaven Bilic in charge of the club.
He said: "For me it was always nailed on.He's a quality manager and is building a great squad. I think the Hammers could be in for a top season but tomorrow it's all about getting up to fitness and getting a result under our belts."

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West Ham starlet Elliot Lee out to be the Harry Kane of the new Premier League season
23:00, 10 JULY 2015
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Spurs striker's Europa League goals earned him a first XI call-up and son of Newcastle hero Rob Lee fancies the same after scoring in Andorra on Thursday
The Mirror

Elliot Lee reckons he can emulate Harry Kane and use the Europa League to launch his West Ham career. Striker Kane's goal-scoring heroics in the early stages of the competition last season earned him a regular spot in Tottenham's Premier League side. And, having started the campaign as a relative unknown, he ended it with 32 goals, a first England senior cap and a £45million price-tag on his head. Striker Lee opened his account for the East Londoners with the second-leg winner against FC Lusitans to help them into the second qualifying round, which will see them host Malta's Birkirkara next Thursday. Lee, 20, said: "Look at Harry Kane in the Europa League – that put him where he is today. "He got his chance and he scores goals and I hope to emulate that. Harry took his chances and he is a late developer.
Football changes in the blink of an eye. I will always be both positive and optimistic. "I am confident in my ability. If I get my chance in the Europa League, I think I can score goals." Lee won't have to go far for advice about scoring in the top flight, as he is the son of former Newcastle and England goal scoring midfielder Rob Lee. And Lee junior said: "I really see it [having a famous footballing father] as an advantage. He comes to a lot of my games and tells me what I did right and what I did wrong. "To have someone who can give you this advice, as he has done it, has bought the t-shirt, is great - not many lads can say that."

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Lusitanos vs West Ham match report: Elliot Lee scores only goal of the game as 10-man Hammers move into second qualifying round
independent
Lusitanos 0 West Ham 1 (agg: 0-4)
MARK BRYANS Friday 10 July 2015

West Ham progressed into the second round of qualifying for this season's Europa League, with Terry Westley hailing their victory over FC Lusitans as "mission accomplished". The Hammers were 3-0 up heading to Andorra, but any thoughts of a simple evening were expelled when Diafra Sakho, who scored two of those goals, was sent off with less than 15 minutes gone. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors still sealed a 1-0 win on the night as Elliot Lee grabbed his first senior West Ham goal to complete a 4-0 aggregate victory. Westley, who was again in charge of the team even though new boss Slaven Bilic travelled with the team and took up a place in the dug-out, was again pleased with how the team performed. "Mission accomplished, you would say, over the two legs," he said. "We asked a group of players to return to work on June 22 and the cohesion between the senior and younger players was absolutely first class. "The second leg was made very different after 10 minutes and we ended up having to play with 10 men. "I've got total respect for the senior players and how they went about it in both games. We kept two clean sheets and the way the two centre-halves dealt with everything they threw at us, they were determined to keep the ball out of the net."

James Tomkins again skippered the side, with Joey O'Brien making his 100th West Ham appearance and the likes of Matt Jarvis and Morgan Amalfitano also included. But it was Lee, on his full debut, who coolly slotted home after 21 minutes to settle the game shortly after Sakho had been dismissed for an off-the-ball incident with Lusitans defender Moises San Nicolas. "It was that type of match, a bit niggly," added Westley. "There were lots of times when it got stopped and people rolling around on the ground and it was interrupted a lot. "We said to the young ones that they really have to learn in Europe that if you are petulant, you can get yourself a yellow card and put yourself under pressure. "I have to say I didn't see the incident as it was so far away from where the ball way. It's not even on our filming of the game by our analysts. It's a lesson learnt and it made it harder for the remaining 10 players."

The Hammers rarely tested again, although Lee bent a curling effort wide in the dying stages before Tomkins had to hack a Alfi Conteh-Lacalle free-kick off the line. The second qualifying round will see Bilic's side - which will likely include a number of first-team regulars who have now returned from a training camp in Ireland - take on Birkirkara of Malta, with the first leg at Upton Park next Thursday.

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West Ham heavily backed ahead of Spurs to snap up impressive Everton winger
London 24
12:38 10 July 2015 Brad Pinard

West Ham have been backed into favourites to sign Everton winger Kevin Mirallas. SkyBet now make the Hammers 2/1 favourites for Mirallas to join them before the transfer deadline after a flurry of bets. Tottenham were heading the market and Mauricio Pochettino has been a long term admirer of the Belgian winger. With just one year remaining on his contract at Everton, Mirallas has been tipped to leave and Aaron Lennon was expected to be his replacement at Goodison Park. That Spurs link continues with Lennon's availability, and Pochettino still wants another winger. West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is set to still be busy adding to his squad and the sale of Stewart Downing could prompt him into action regarding Mirallas. Latest Kevin Mirallas next club odds on SkyBet: West Ham 2/1 Spurs 3/1 Monaco 8/1 Atletico Madrid 20/1 To stay at Everton 1/1

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West Ham season tickets sell out for the final campaign at Upton Park
Evening STandard
RICHARD PARRY
Published: 10 July 2015 Updated: 13:30, 10 July 2015

West Ham announced today that they have sold out their season tickets for the final campaign at Upton Park. The Hammers have played at the Boleyn Ground since 1904 and fans have been eager to be part of the farewell season before the club move to the Olympic Stadium next summer. Vice-chairman Karren Brady said: "This is a hugely exciting time, with an ambitious manager, big name signings, European football and the final season at the Boleyn Ground." Meanwhile, West Ham progressed to the Europa League second qualifying round last night after beating Andorran minnows FC Lusitans 1-0 away to seal a 4-0 aggregate victory. Diafra Sakho was sent off after just 15 minutes but Elliot Lee's first senior goal for the club eased any worries. Terry Westley, who was again in charge of the team despite new manager Slaven Bilic's presence in Andorra, said: "Mission accomplished. The second leg was made very different after we ended up having 10 men." James Tomkins again skippered the side, with Joey O'Brien making his 100th West Ham appearance. But it was Lee, on his full debut, who slotted home after 21 minutes to settle the game shortly after Sakho had been dismissed for an off-the-ball incident. West Ham will face Birkirkara, of Malta, in the next round, with the first leg at Upton Park next Thursday.

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Posh ready for Hammers challenge
Alan Swann
alan.swann@jpress.co.uk
10:15Friday 10 July 2015

Peterborough United manager Dave Robertson is looking forward to seeing his players take on the challenge of Premier League opposition at the ABAX Stadium tomorrow (July 11).
Posh host West Ham in their first home friendly of the summer (3pm kick off) and 'The Hammers' have promised to send a strong squad. Posh opened their friendly season with a 3-2 win at non-league Dulwich Hamlet on Wednesday (July 8) and the team's performance pleased Robertson who also thought there were some outstanding individual displays. "It was a great workout at Dulwich," Robertson enthused. "The pitch was excellent and the opposition were decent. I managed to get some game time into some of the younger members of the squad and of course the result was good. "Obviously it's a step up tomorrow as West Ham will bring a side with experience and quality, but I'm looking forward to seeing how my players cope with the challenge.
"There were some excellent displays at Dulwich. Harry Anderson was sensational, he's just a machine and he could play three 90 minutes in a row right now. Joe Gormley gave us a glimpse of what he will bring to the team, and Marcus Maddison and Jon Taylor looked sharp on the wings. "The West Ham game is a great game for the players and the fans. I am sure we will get a decent crowd because it's an opportunity to see our new players for the first time."

Posh hope to get some minutes into their new signing Jack Collison, a former West Ham player. Those who played for 30 minutes at Dulwich are likely to get an hour against West Ham.
Goalkeeper Ben Alnwick, striker Kyle Vassell, midfielders Joe Newell, Michael Bostwick and Jermaine Anderson were among those not to appear at Dulwich who should play tomorrow,
Two triallists did play at Dulwich and they are expected to be involved against West Ham. The players concerned are believed to be Kieran Sadlier, a former West Ham youngster, who played for St Mirren in the Scottish Premier League last season, and Andrew Fox, a local lad who has been playing in the United States Sadlier is an attacking midfielder who scored four goals in two internal practice matches ahead of the Dulwich match. Both will be taken on the club's brief tour of Ireland next week. The winger from Real Madrid who spent time on trail at Posh has returned home.
Tickets are priced at £10 for adults (there is a £5 price increase on the day), over 60s and 18-21-year-olds and £5 for under 18s.

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Progressive West Ham have traded up this summer as they show their intent to reach the next level
10:51, 10 July 2015
OPINION BY DARRENLEWIS
While many have been quick to criticise the Hammers, they have quietly gone about upgrading the club on and off the pitch
The Mirror

It's fair to say that West Ham are trading up this summer. You may not like the way that they went about replacing Big Sam Allardyce but they were the not the first club - and will be far from the last - to decide they needed an upgrade. Southampton were vilified when they dumped Nigel Adkins, the man who led them up into the Premier League from the Championship. In came Mauricio Pochettino to take hold of a outfit seen at the time as relegation fodder and take them to another level. Chelsea took a bit of stick when they dispensed with the services of Claudio Ranieri. Jose Mourinho quickly silenced their critics. Tony Pulis did superbly for Stoke but Mark Hughes is building on the foundations laid by the Welshman. And Garry Monk is breaking records at Swansea after taking over from Michael Laudrup.

So why should West Ham not aspire to bigger things by looking up?

Why should they not progress from cast-offs and has-beens to running with the bigger boys?

There is a misconception that the Irons are simply hankering after 'The West Ham Way'. That the fans are hoping against hope for a return to an era long since past.

Actually, they just want to move to the next level. And at this rate it looks pretty much as though they are doing so.

The signing of £14million Dimitri Payet from Marseille is a real statement of intent. Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna is set to become the commanding figure at the back that they have been looking for.

Richard HeathcoteNew start: Big Sam was given the heave-ho this summer
They have kept left-back Aaron Cresswell, one of the very best in the Premier League, from the clutches of Chelsea and Manchester City . And after landing 23-year-old Pedro Obiang from Sampdoria they now have midfield teeming with steel and craft.

Yohan Cabaye would have improved it further had he not chosen Crystal Palace instead. But Argentine playmaker Manuel Lanzini, on his way from Al Jazira Club in the UAE, could well provide that x-factor.

The Hammers are continuing to look at strikers and are keen to continue using the Europa League to ensure their youngsters are knocking as hard as they can on the door to the first team.

Jordan Mansfield/GettyReece Oxford at West HamFresh face: Reece Oxford was given his West Ham debut last week
This is a period in the club's history that could prove pivotal.

They don't have a Russian investor or an Arab Sheikh which is even more of a reason why Davids Gold and Sullivan and vice-chairman Karren Brady deserve credit.

Whatever you think about the way that they have acquired the Olympic Stadium, they have made some shrewd moves that are enabling them to think big.

The enhanced new TV deal helps, while it is fair to say that Slaven Bilic is perhaps more able to attract players than Allardyce was.

So now they are doing what fans of every club outside the top six wants - they are having a right go.

Eyes were rolled in France when they initially moved for Payet ("As if he would go there…"). Even after the winger signed his move was described in his homeland as "embarrassing for French football".

It is far from that for West Ham. It is a measure of their growing ambition that they are able to land a player of that calibre.

Before closing the deal for Ogbonna the Hammers weighed in for Monaco defender Aymen Abdennour and Dynamo Kiev centre-back Aleksander Dragovic.

The players coming in are not has-beens at the end of their careers. Obiang is 23, Payet is 28 and has just come off the back of a season in which he was the most creative player in the top five European leagues.

Ogbonna is 27, Carl Jenkinson - set to return on loan - is 23. Even with all his miles on the clock Alex Song, poised to come back on a permanent basis pending an assessment on his injury, is still only 27.

There was a time when the Irons would panic if Andy Carroll picked up, as he tends to, any kind of injury. These days they are building a team mixed with youth and experience while at the same time providing a pathway for their rising stars.

Rather than pining for the 'West Ham Way' there has always been a strategy at Upton Park. For that they surely deserve praise, not criticism.

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Everything you need to know about West Ham's next Europa League opponents Birkirkara of Malta
HITC
Damien Lucas

A trip to the Mediterranean to face Maltese side Birkirkara awaits West Ham United in the second qualifying round of the Europa League. The Hammers, who cruised to a comfortable 4-0 aggregate victory over Andorran minnows FC Lusitanos in round one, will take on Birkirkara after their own win against Ulisses. The Maltese side beat their Armenian hosts 3-1, ensuring a preferable trip to Malta for Hammers fans. West Ham were the first Premier League side to be back in competitive action after qualifying for Europe through the FIFA Fair Play rankings.

Shortest break, fastest starters?

While the early return to action meant the shortest summer break for any Premier League side in history, it does mean West Ham will be sharp and fit when the new season gets under way on August 9th. The early qualifying rounds of the competition were always going to throw up some unknown opponents and interesting trips across the continent.

The lowdown on Birkirkara

But what do we know about Birkirkara? First things first, more supporters will be able to travel over for the game as the club's Infetti Ground holds 2,500 fans - double that of FC Lusitanos. Some might be thinking twice about making the trip, though, because 'Infetti' means 'infected' in Italian and is so named because the fields on which the stadium is built served as a graveyard for victims that had died from the plague in the past. A pint will cost around €3 for domestic and imported beer. Anyone that does make the trip will need to bring their suntan lotion. Temperatures over there at the moment are averaging at a scorching 32°C. It is the most populated town on the island, with 22,247 inhabitants. On the pitch, Birkirkara have won the Maltese Premier League four times. They finished third last season and play in yellow and red, a similar kit to that of newly-promoted Premier League side Watford Like against Lusitanos, West Ham will be red hot favourites to qualify for the third qualifying round over two legs, the dates of which are yet to be confirmed.

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Three game ban a major blow for West Ham striker after 'niggly' Europa League win
07:34 10 July 2015
London 24

West Ham progressed into the second round of qualifying for this season's Europa League, with Terry Westley hailing their victory over FC Lusitans as "mission accomplished" despite Diafra Sakho's red card. The Hammers were 3-0 up heading to Andorra, but any thoughts of a simple evening were expelled when Sakho, who scored two of those goals, was sent off with less than 15 minutes gone and the striker could now miss the next three European games With the squad already announced for the next round, the Hammers could be light on strikers with Mauro Zarate not fit enough to travel to Andorra either. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors still sealed a 1-0 win on the night as Elliot Lee grabbed his first senior West Ham goal to complete a 4-0 aggregate victory. Westley, who was again in charge of the team even though new boss Slaven Bilic travelled with the team and took up a place in the dug-out, was again pleased with how the team performed. "Mission accomplished, you would say, over the two legs," he said. "We asked a group of players to return to work on June 22 and the cohesion between the senior and younger players was absolutely first class. "The second leg was made very different after 10 minutes and we ended up having to play with 10 men. "I've got total respect for the senior players and how they went about it in both games. We kept two clean sheets and the way the two centre-halves dealt with everything they threw at us, they were determined to keep the ball out of the net." James Tomkins again skippered the side, with Joey O'Brien making his 100th West Ham appearance and the likes of Matt Jarvis and Morgan Amalfitano also included. But it was Lee, on his full debut, who coolly slotted home after 21 minutes to settle the game shortly after Sakho had been dismissed for an off-the-ball incident with Lusitans defender Moises San Nicolas. "It was that type of match, a bit niggly," added Westley. "There were lots of times when it got stopped and people rolling around on the ground and it was interrupted a lot. "We said to the young ones that they really have to learn in Europe that if you are petulant, you can get yourself a yellow card and put yourself under pressure. "I have to say I didn't see the incident as it was so far away from where the ball way. It's not even on our filming of the game by our analysts. It's a lesson learnt and it made it harder for the remaining 10 players." The Hammers rarely tested again, although Lee bent a curling effort wide in the dying stages before Tomkins had to hack a Alfi Conteh-Lacalle free-kick off the line. The second qualifying round will see Bilic's side - which will likely include a number of first-team regulars who have now returned from a training camp in Ireland - take on Birkirkara of Malta, with the first leg at Upton Park next Thursday.

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West Ham new-boys set for debuts as Hammers take strong squad to Peterborough
London 24
08:00 10 July 2015 Brad Pinard

West Ham duo Dimitri Payet and Pedro Obiang could be set for their Hammers debuts against Peterborough tomorrow. The Irons travel to the Posh for their first official pre-season friendly, although a West Ham XI have already booked their place in the Europa League second qualifying round after a two-legged win over Lusitanos. First team regulars James Tomkins, Diafra Sakho, Morgan Amalfitano and Matt Jarvis are all with the Europa squad, but the rest of the big hitters are likely to feature against Peterborough. Slaven Bilic is racing against the clock to get back from Andorra, where West Ham won last night, to take charge at London Road against a side coached by former Hammers Grant McCann. Jack Collison has also joined United so will face his former club in what should be a good test for the new Hammers.

David Gold ?@davidgold
We are taking a strong squad to Peterborugh. dg
5:04 PM - 9 Jul 2015

Jack collison ?@Jcollison31
Glad to see @whufc_official are bringing the big hitters Saturday.. It's gonna be a great game and a good test.. Can't wait .?????? #poshVwhu

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Downing's return to Boro edges closer
NOrthern Echo

MIDDLESBROUGH hope to conclude the signing of Stewart Downing before they fly to Marbella on Monday. West Ham United have offered a little more encouragement to Boro in their bid to take the 30-year-old former Liverpool playmaker back to Teesside. The Hammers indicated a willingness to let Downing head for the Riverside earlier this week but they were keen to recruit a replacement first. West Ham are targeting numerous players in the hope of strengthening Slaven Bilic's squad and Downing's Upton Park exit has moved a step closer. Sources close to West Ham suggest that they are almost ready to do business after further negotiations with Middlesbrough. The next 48 hours could be crucial. Downing, who has two years on his contract remaining at West Ham, looks set for a five year deal at Middlesbrough and he will cost in the region of £5m. Aitor Karanka, the Middlesbrough head coach, takes his squad to Spain on Monday for three friendlies. He is keen to add experience before the start of the new season in August and tried to sign goalkeeper Shay Given, only to lose out to Stoke City because of geographical reasons.

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Five things we learned from West Ham's second leg Europa League win over FC Lusitanos
HITC
Damien Lucas

A 1-0 win at Andorran minnows Lusitanos sealed West Ham United's safe passage through to the Europa League second qualifying round 4-0 on aggregate. The Hammers qualified for Europe through the backdoor thanks to the FIFA Fair Play rankings which was great for the club and fans. It throws up some interesting and bizarre trips across the continent and depending on how far they progress could add as many as 23 matches to West Ham's season. Slaven Bilic was again in the stands to watch this one, leaving team duties to Academy manager Terry Westley, who will step aside for the second round of qualifying. West Ham won the tie at a canter despite seeing Diafra Sakho sent off after just 14 minutes. His striker partner Elliot Lee got the only goal of the game to seal a 4-0 win overall.

But did we learn much from the game?

1) Sam Allardyce was wrong to ignore starlet Elliot Lee

West Ham fans have been calling for the son of former England and West Ham star Rob to be given his chance in the first team for well over a year. Excited by his supreme scoring record at youth and U21 level, many supporters used his lack of game time - particularly when the Hammers suffered a string of injuries to their strikers in the last two seasons - as a rod with which to beat former manager Sam Allardyce. They felt Big Sam had no interest in promoting academy players, something the club prides itself on. Lee was given a couple of late substitute cameos under the now departed manager but was farmed out on loan. He showed against Lusitanos that Allardyce was wrong to ignore him by marking his full debut with a well-taken goal and being named man of the match. Cue comparisons to Hammers legend Tony Cottee.

2) The Europa League is not all glamour

If any proof was needed that playing in Europe is not always what it is cracked up to be, a trip to Andorran minnows Lusitanos provided it. A stadium holding less than 1,000 fans and sporting an artificial pitch was the venue for the game. The club could not live stream the match over the internet, because the signal was not good enough and all the hosts seemed to want to do was start a fight with their visitors from east London. It is a far cry from the kind of European nights we are used to seeing in television. But the Hammers must first go through the pain to be rewarded with plum ties later on in the competition.

3) Terry Westley is West Ham's best ever manager

If Hammers Academy manager Terry Westley is remembered for nothing else in his career let it be this. He is officially West Ham's best ever manager boasting a 100% win rate. Ok he may have only taken charge of two games but the pressure was on considering he had new boss Slaven Bilic watching on from the stands and the club's ambitious co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold desperate to make the competition proper. With four goals scored and none conceded over the two games it is a record that is unlikely to be broken anytime soon. Players, both senior and youth, remarked how much they enjoyed their time under Westley preparing for the matches. And the experience will bode him well in terms of knowing the levels the club's emerging talent need to reach to realistically compete for a first team spot.

4) Diafra Sakho needs to keep his cool under provocation

When Diafra Sakho was sent off after 14 minutes, in all honesty, it mattered very little given that his side were already 3-0 to the good against weak opposition. But the popular striker cannot afford to leave his team in the lurch by reacting to provocation, particularly as they progress to face tougher teams. He is the club's main goalscoring threat and will now be missing for the next round. Opposing players will see him as a weak link mentally if he reacts to being wound up so easily and he will be a target. We must remember he is still only 24 so he must learn from this and ensure it doesn't happen again when he returns.

5) Perhaps youngster Josh Cullen needs to go out on loan?

With the match all but over before kick-off, much of the excitement in the build-up surrounded the news that West Ham were handing a full debut to exciting Academy prospect Josh Cullen in centre midfield. The swashbuckling youngster is in the mould of the likes of Joe Cole and has shown some glimpses of real talent in his cameos before this game. Brave as a lion he is usually very direct and runs at opposition defences. May fans expected to see him involved in the thick of the attacking action but he was on the periphery for the majority of the match.
That was more down to the ever decreasing pace and interest in the dead rubber tie from both sides. But perhaps a loan move to get regular competitive first team action might be best for his progression He showed some frustration by getting booked late on before being withdrawn. Did do anything wrong but would definitely benefit from a move to a Championship or League One side looking to add some creativity to their team.

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Europa League: Red mist descends for Sakho as West?Ham make Euro advance
cityam
10 July 2015 1:19am

Sakho will miss West Ham's next three games
FC LUSITANS 0 WEST HAM UNITED 1
(West Ham win 4-0 on aggregate)

ACADEMY boss Terry Westley highlighted the professionalism of the club's senior players as 10-man West Ham sauntered through to the second qualifying round of the Europa League last night.
The Hammers were forced to play more than 75 minutes of manager Slaven Bilic's first game in the dugout a man light after striker Diafra Sakho's early dismissal, although their progress was sealed courtesy of forward Elliot Lee's first senior goal. West Ham will now face Maltese side Birkirkara in the second qualifying round, with the first leg on Thursday, the first of three more rounds the Upton Park side have to navigate in order to earn a group-stage slot. "Mission accomplished, you would say, over the two legs," said Westley. "We asked a group of players to return to work on 22 June and the cohesion between the senior and younger players was absolutely first class. I've got total respect for the senior players and how they went about it in both games."

Bilic will not be able to call upon Senegal hitman Sakho for West Ham's next three European ties after his red card for an off-the-ball altercation with FC?Lusitans' defender Luigi San Nicholas on 14 minutes. Any fears that their man disadvantage would result in a difficult evening for West Ham, who once again selected a side with a mix of youth and experience, were extinguished when 20-year-old Lee, the son of former England midfielder Rob, fired into the bottom corner.

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Slaven Bilic to take full control at West Ham after Europa League win over Lusitans
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 23:22, 9 July 2015 | UPDATED: 23:43, 9 July 2015

Slaven Bilic will now take full control of West Ham after watching his young side cruise past Lusitans. After being branded disrespectful by opposing manager Xavi Roura for not sitting on the bench during last week's first-leg, Bilic took his place in the dug-out for the first time since his appointment as the club's manager for the second leg here in Andorra. The Croat, though, yet again, left control of the side to academy chief Terry Westley, with the match-day squad mostly made up of promising youngsters. However, Westley now expects Bilic to take full control, saying: 'From this moment on I envisage Slaven and his main staff will take charge in the Europa League. 'All the senior players are due back into training from Monday, so I expect more senior players to be integrated into the games from now. 'We all meet on Monday, the senior squad return with the Europa League squad who have been together since June 22.
'So we look forward to the whole staff, with Slaven's guys, working together.' 'The integration between the young players and the older ones who have been with his has been first class,' he added. 'They've had some great experiences over two legs. They have learned about moving the ball quickly, dominating the game and playing forward when possible.'

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Alan Shearer reacts on Twitter to Elliot Lee's heroics
HITC
Subhankar Mondal

West Ham United youngster Elliot Lee seems to have impressed former Southampton, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer. Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has taken to social networking site Twitter to congratulate Elliot Lee on his first goal for West Ham United. The 20-year-old striker was on target against Lusitanos away from home in Andorra on Thursday. The youngster's goal in the 21st minute proved to be the difference between the two sides, as West Ham won the second leg of the Europa League first qualifying round 1-0.
The Hammers have now progressed to the second qualifying round of the prestigious European competition 4-0 on aggregate, having won the first leg of the tie 3-0 at the Boleyn Ground last week. Former Southampton, Blackburn and Newcastle striker Shearer was impressed with Lee's first senior goal for West Ham and has backed him to score more. Lee made just one appearance for West Ham in the Premier League last season. It came against Newcastle away from home at St. James' Park on the final day of the campaign. Lee came on for the final 14 minutes and gave a decent account of himself during the Magpies' 2-0 defeat. The youngster had a pass accuracy of 50%, and won one header, one dribble and one tackle.

Alan Shearer ?@alanshearer
Huge congratulations to @ElliotLee9 on his first goal for the #WHUFC first team. #manymoretocome ???? ????
8:09 PM - 9 Jul 2015

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Daily WHUFC News - Peterborough v West Ham United

Preview - Peterborough United
WHUFC.com

The ABAX Stadium
The background

West Ham United face their first pre-season friendly of the summer on
Saturday when they head to Sky Bet League One side Peterborough United.

While the Hammers have already played two UEFA Europa League games this
summer, seeing off FC Lusitans of Andorra by a 4-0 aggregate scoreline, a
group of senior players have been training in Ireland and have yet to put
that work into practice on the pitch.

A trip to Peterborough offers them the opportunity to get that game time
into their legs ahead of the start of the new Barclays Premier League
season, now just four weeks away.

Peterborough are playing their second warm-up game, having defeated
non-league Dulwich Hamlet on Thursday.

They finished ninth last season and will be hopeful of mounting a challenge
for promotion to the Championship in 2015/16.

The history

West Ham and Peterborough have met on four previous occasions, with the
Hammers coming out on top in all four meetings.

The last set of fixtures came in the 2011/12 campaign when both sides were
in the Championship. Sam Allardyce's men won 1-0 at the Boleyn Ground in
September, before Ricardo Vaz Te and Gary O'Neil struck at London Road to
give the east Londoners a 2-0 success.

Prior to that, the only other West Ham-Peterborough games came in 1992/93,
when the Hammers won 3-1 away and 2-1 at home.

Peterborough were founded in 1934 and have had three spells in the second
tier – one in the early 1990s and the latter two in the last decade. Twice
League Two winners, their trophy cabinet also contains the Football League
Trophy

The match

Team news

West Ham United

Saturday's game will give Hammers fans a first opportunity to see several
first team stars in action this summer.

Manager Slaven Bilic has confirmed that his team will be made up of players
who featured in the second training camp in Cork, and therefore missed both
legs of the UEFA Europa League tie against FC Lusitans.

That means the likes of Hammer of the Year Aaron Cresswell, Adrian, Mark
Noble and new signing Pedro Obiang could feature.

Peterborough United

Peterborough will give first run-outs of the summer to experienced defender
Gabriel Zakuani and Michael Bostwick.

Academy graduate Jack Collison could also be involved after signing for the
Posh this summer. Collison needs no introduction to Hammers fans, having
played 121 games for the Club before moving on last summer.

Another connection between the clubs is Posh assistant boss Grant McCann,
who came through the ranks at the Boleyn Ground and made four league
appearances for the Club.

Match facts

This is the first of six friendlies that the Hammers will contest this
summer, with matches against Southend, Colchester, Charlton, Norwich and
Werder Bremen to follow.
Jack Collison and Grant McCann provide the links between the two sides,
while the Posh's manager, Dave Robertson, grew up as a Hammers supporter.
Peterborough have spent the last two seasons in League One, following
relegation from the Championship. In 2013/14 they were defeated in the
Play-Off semi-finals by Leyton Orient and last term they finished ninth.
Their ABAX Stadium, traditionally known as London Road, holds 15,314
supporters.
Tickets, travel, weather and coverage

Directions to the ABAX Stadium can be found here.
Supporters travelling by train can reach Peterborough from London King's
Cross in around 45 minutes. No engineering work is planned on the line for
Saturday
Tickets for the game will be available at the ABAX Stadium, priced at £15
Adults and £5 Under-18s.
It looks like a decent day weather wise, with sunny spells and temperatures
reaching 23C (73F).
Head to whufc.com for live text commentary, photos and more, while you can
get involved on our social media channels.

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Bilic ready for Posh test
WHUFC.com

Slaven Bilic is looking forward to taking charge of his new team for the
first time when they travel to Peterborough United for a pre-season friendly
on Saturday. Bilic was in the dugout as the Hammers saw off Lusitans on
Thursday, but left Academy Manager Terry Westley in control of the team. At
the ABAX Stadium, however, Bilic will take the players who have spent the
last week-and-a-half training in Cork and give them their first run out of
the summer. That means the likes of Hammer of the Year Aaron Cresswell, Mark
Noble and new signing Pedro Obiang could feature, and Bilic said: "We have a
game on Saturday against Peterborough. 99 per cent of that will be from the
guys in Cork. Maybe some of the players from Andorra will join us because we
have training on Friday afternoon and then we'll make a squad for Saturday.
Of course I'm looking forward to every game. "It has been an unusual
situation having two groups of players in different places over the last
couple of weeks. "I flew back from Ireland on Tuesday, then came to Andorra
with the team on Wednesday morning. Terry was in charge for that game but I
was with with him, then afterwards we are going to become a proper team. In
a normal situation."

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Obiang and Payet set for appearances
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

West Ham fans are set to get their first look at new boys Pedro Obiang and
Dimitri Payet at Peterborough tomorrow. Slaven Bilic is taken a full
strength squad to London Road for the pre-season match and even though the
new boys may make just fleeting appearances both are scheduled for a run
out. Revealing the news to CaretandHugh David Gold said: "This is a
traditional fixture for us and as I understand it the plan is to give all
the top players a run out. "It may only be for ten minutes apiece maybe but
I believe that is the plan."

We like to fulfil this match every season because Barry Fry – their director
of football – is a really good friend. He's one of the nicest men in
football and it's good to be able to help them get some much needed cash
through the turnstiles."

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