Bilic urges Hammers to keep their cool
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic has urged his players to keep their cool during Thursday's UEFA Europa League second qualifying round second leg tie with Birkirkara FC. With temperatures hovering around 35C (95F) in Malta and a large and vociferous home crowd expected at the Ta' Qali National Stadium, the Stripes will do everything they can to overcome their 1-0 first-leg deficit. However, speaking in his pre-match press conference, Bilic has said his Hammers will prepare for the heat, humidity and atmosphere, while also warning his players not to become involved in any situations similar to that which saw Diafra Sakho sent-off in the first qualifying round win over Andorrans FC Lusitans.
Slaven, can we start with your team news please?
SB: "It's a good situation. Still we are not complete, because some players have stayed in London and then join the pre-season later than rest of the guys. They played for their national team or the Under-21s or at the Copa America. "It's much different than the Andorra game, when we were having two squads, as now we have one team. Five or six players stayed in London and had a good training session on Wednesday, and they will train on Thursday with the Under-21s with Terry Westley. We have a good team here with us and we are looking forward to tomorrow's game."
How do you see the tie after the first leg, seeing as you don't have a decisive advantage?
SB: "Well the score was not ideal, to be fair, and we were hoping to have one more goal. Before that game I didn't dream it would be like the Andorra kind of a game. I played a few times against Maltese teams and against the national team, and Croatia drew 1-1 once here when I was Under-21s. We are still the favourite and are better than them, but the gap is closing. "We are better than them of course, and to get a better result than 1-0 we should have scored earlier which I think we deserved, but at the end, we have a positive result. I am sure that it should be enough especially if we score a goal here, which we will try to do, and our team is capable of."
After what happened with Diafra Sakho in Andorra, when he was sent-off for retaliating to provocation, will you be telling your team to keep their heads?
SB: "I don't it will be very hostile atmosphere here. The people are nice are very here, we are expecting that. Our players play in the Premier League and a lot of them are internationals.
"I will tell them, but it's pointless to warm them about the pressures and the referees when they face that week out, week in all their careers. Of course, we don't want that."
Finally, you trained at the Ta' Qali National Stadium on Wednesday evening and it was still very hot and humid. Will the heat be a factor?
SB: "The heat is a problem, you cannot get used to this heat, no matter how much you read in the papers, until the moment you land. I spoke to my family and kids in Croatia and there it's the same. They tell me 'Dad, it's going to be 37-38 degrees, but when we came it is like a sauna. "That will be a problem for us, but we are experienced enough and we are good enough that with the greatest respect to the Maltese team, at least 70% we are going to be the ones who dictate the tempo of the game, and we should be capable of keeping the ball and not go crazy in terms of running. "However, the heat is their advantage, because they live in those weather conditions and we don't."
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Lanzini: it's been emotional
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 23rd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
New signing Manuel Lanzini believes he has taken "a very important step" by signing for West Ham United on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old Argentine finally completed his move to east London yesterday following weeks of speculation. And former River Plate Lanzini - who joins via UAE side Al Jazira - insists that he can't wait to get started. "This is very emotional because it is one of the best teams I have ever signed for. It is a very important step for my career and for my future," he told whufc.tv. "This is a new challenge and that can only help in the future. "I am looking forward to what is a new era for me. I'm very happy and I look forward to meeting my new teammates. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world, I'm looking forward to getting started and I hope to give my maximum for the fans."
Meanwhiel Lanzini's arrival was welcomed by Slaven Bilic, who revealed that he had been tracking the forward for nearly two years. "I wanted to take him to Besiktas but it was very difficult," revealed Bilic. "We were close, but now the chance to get him came. "He's going to help us a lot. He's going to add even more creativity in the crucial parts of the pitch. I am confident and I'm hopeful that he can adapt. "Now you have deep playmakers like Pirlo or Modric, and then playmakers between the lines - Silva and Payet, for example. He's more that guy, he can play on the left, he can play all positions behind the striker."
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Gold refuses to rule out Sakho sale
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 23rd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has claimed that West Ham are not planning to part company with Diafra Sakho - without completely ruling out the sale of the in-form striker. Last week the 25-year-old, who scored 12 goals in his first season in the Premier League was linked with a £15million move to Manchester United. And when questioned about the possibility of the Senegal international leaving the Boleyn Ground this summer, just 12 months after signing from Metz in a cut-price £4million deal, Gold insisted on hedging his bets by refusing to rule anything out. Hammers fan Peter Morris asked the club's co-owner on Twitter: What's the likelihood of us selling Sakho?" - to which the 78-year-old simply replied: "There are no plans to sell Sakho."
The striker has not travelled to Malta with the rest of his team mates as he is currently serving a three-match European suspension, having been sent off in the 1-0 win in Andorra against Lusitanos in the previous round. West Ham face Birkirkara in the second leg of their Europa League, second qualifying round tie in Malta tonight.
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Could 'the Croatian Messi' be next?
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 23rd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic is keeping a close eye on the situation regarding young Barcelona star Alen Halilovic. 19-year-old Halilovic made the move of a lifetime last season when he switched allegiance from Dinamo Zagreb to Barcelona for a fee in the region of €2million. And although he signed a five-year contract with the Spanish giants, the seven times-capped Croatian international is already being linked with a move away from the Nou Camp - with Real Betis and West Ham strongly linked with a move for the player. Halilovic failed to make more than a single first team appearance for Barcelona last season, but was a regular fixture in the club's 'B' team (for whom he played on 30 occasions). Despite his lack of involvement at first team level he was still involved in two European Championship qualifiers for his nation. Having started his career with Zagreb, the attacking midfielder made history when he became the club's youngest player at the age of 16 years and 112 days. Later in the season he became the youngest Zagreb player to feature in the Champions League, and by playing became the second-youngest player ever to feature in the competition. Both West Ham and Betis are understood to be keen to take Halilovic on a season-long loan.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic confident of Europa League progress against Birkirkara
Last Updated: 23/07/15 11:44am
SSN
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic believes his side are still clear favourites heading into their Europa League second qualifying round second-leg clash with Birkirkara. James Tomkins' 90th-minute strike in the first leg at Upton Park is the only difference between the two sides, as the Premier League outfit struggled to break down their Maltese opposition.
While wary of their precarious situation and the danger posed by Birkirkara compared to Andorran side Lusitans – who they played in the first round - Bilic is still confident his side will progress on Thursday night. "Well the score was not ideal, to be fair, and we were hoping to have one more goal," he told reporters in a press conference. "Before that game I didn't dream it would be like the Andorra kind of a game. "I played a few times against Maltese teams and against the national team, and Croatia drew 1-1 once here when I was (playing for the) Under-21s.
"We are still the favourite and are better than them, but the gap is closing. "We are better than them of course, and to get a better result than 1-0 we should have scored earlier which I think we deserved, but at the end, we have a positive result. "I am sure that it should be enough especially if we score a goal here, which we will try to do, and our team is capable of."
Midfielder Mark Noble believes the heat will be a challenge for the visitors – and while they have been training in the Ta'Qali National Stadium to get used to the climate, Bilic agrees it will be tough going for his players. "The heat is a problem, you cannot get used to this heat, no matter how much you read in the papers, until the moment you land," he said.
A look ahead to Thursday's Europa League second qualifying second-leg clash in Malta. "I spoke to my family and kids in Croatia and there it's the same. They tell me 'Dad, it's going to be 37-38 degrees', but when we came it is like a sauna. "That will be a problem for us, but we are experienced enough and we are good enough that, with the greatest respect to the Maltese team, at least 70 per cent we are going to be the ones who dictate the tempo of the game, and we should be capable of keeping the ball and not go crazy in terms of running. "However, the heat is their advantage, because they live in those weather conditions and we don't."
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Beware! There's still one player we really need
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham have secured some exciting looking signings this summer. This week Argentine starlet Manuel Lanzini became the seventh following Dimitri Payet, Angel Ogbonna ,Pedro Obiang,Carl Jenkinson Stephen Hendrie and Darren Randolph. On the face of it the squad has been significantly strengthened and with Slaven Bilic also prepared to consider some of the impressive young talent coming through there is an exciting feeling about the 'New Hammers' in the wake of dire last days of the Sam Allardyce regime. But beware. This is exactly the stage of the season when the majority of fans around the country are most optimistic ….just before the season has actually started.
And one of the reasons for some caution is that with the exception of Jenkinson, who continues his loan spell from Arsenal, none of the above have Premier League experience and four have yet to sample the different environment of British football. As Manchester United discovered last season even players with the highest international reputation and natural talent – Radamal Falcao and Angel di Maria – can find it hard to adapt let alone hit the ground running in the Premier League. Which is why, I feel, West Ham should go for an eight signing, a player who has the pedigree to solve profligacy in the final third and make the Hammers a force and lure a player from just down the road. I am talking here about Charlie Austin.
Newcastle and Aston Villa are the latest clubs to move in for the 26 year old centre forward who relegated QPR will sell for £15 million which in current currency is a bargain for a striker.
It's half what Liverpool have paid for Christian Benteke. A quarter of what has been suggested Manchester City, yes seriously, may pay for Kevin de Bruyne. Austin scored 18 goals for Rangers last season an impressive return in a struggling team and did enough to force his way into England contention. Having worked his way back up the ranks from non league after rejection at Reading he would seem to have just the sort of character and hunger the Hammers need upfront not to mention a wide range of finishing ability. And of course he comes with full service history. Look at his CV and see how every time he had faced a new challenge he grasps the nettle and hits the back of the net. Newcastle and Villa are the sort of the teams West Ham need to better than if they are to be a top ten team knocking on the door of the "Big Six". So why let them land Austin, who would, I understand, prefer to live in the London area.
If the fee is a problem given the expense so far on the new players then surely a deal could be done with some of the West Ham players who would now seem surplus to requirements being offered to Rangers in exchange or sold off elsewhere . Given Andy Carroll's latest injury set back it's hard to see him returning and being a significant feature in the future of West Ham under Bilic. Austin on the other hand has the powers to give the Hammers the extra dimension upfront they need.
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Hammers linked with Barcelona starlet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are tracking Barcelona starlet Alen Halilovic according to the Spanish media this morning. Barcelona secured the signature of the Croatian youngster last summer however, the 19-year-old has made just one appearance in the senior team and spent most of last season playing for Barcelona B, who were relegated to the Segunda B Division. The Barcelona youngster is believed to be considering his options for next season as he is unlikely to play much first team football for the senior team. The Catalan daily Sport claim West Ham are interested in signing him on loan this summer. It has been claimed that Halilovic is open to a move to the Boleyn Ground next season because of the presence of Slaven Bilic, who has recommended the youngster to the West Ham board. The paper claims that the Hammers are set to act on their interest in the 19-year-old playmaker and are claimed to be ready to make a concrete offer in the next few weeks. The Spanish press claim Barcelona are unlikely to sell him this summer, they are open to the idea of loaning him out and could consider an offer from West Ham.
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Hammers linked with Crystal Palace winger
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Sky Sports News are reporting that West Ham are one of three Premier League clubs to have made enquiries to Crystal Palace regarding the availability of Yannick Bolasie. Spurs and Aston Villa are claimed to be the other two clubs. Sky Sports News claim Palace have braced themselves to receive official bids for the winger from at least two of the interested parties over the coming days. Alan Pardew is said to have slapped a £40m price tag on Bolasie to scare clubs off The 26-year-old scored four goals for the Eagles last season, is contracted to Selhurst Park until the summer of 2017. The big question is whether West Ham need another winger. We at Claret and Hugh won't be taking this rumour too seriously.
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Winston Reid: Playing in Europe was one of the things I wanted to do and I felt I could achieve it with West Ham
West Ham hold 1-0 lead from the second qualifying round first-leg
Winston Reid hopes his side can go as far as possible in the competition
Reid had European football in mind with he agreed Hammers extension
By LUKE AUGUSTUS FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 13:34, 23 July 2015 | UPDATED: 13:35, 23 July 2015
Winston Reid feels his decision to remain at West Ham has been justified as the club look to progress further in European football. The 26-year-old put pen to paper on a six-and-a-half-year contract in March as speculation over his future grew - with Tottenham and Arsenal linked with the defender last season. Playing European football was one thing that the New Zealand international wanted to taste once more – having done so as a youngster for Danish side FC Midtjylland in 2007 and 2008. Reid made his European debut for the Hammers on July 16 in a 1-0 win over Maltese outfit Birkirkara in the first leg of their Europa League second round qualifying encounter – courtesy of James Tomkins' 90th minute goal. And speaking ahead of the return leg in Malta, the defender is focused on helping West Ham progress as far as possible in the competition – starting with Thursday's clash at the Ta' Qali National Stadium. 'Yes, playing in Europe was one of the things I wanted to do and I felt I could achieve it with this club,' he said on Wednesday at the Premier League side's pre-match press conference. 'These first few rounds are tough games against teams we are not really used to, but we want to progress and reach the group stage, obviously. 'I think we have shown by our dedication and training that we aim to do that and I am sure, come Thursday night, we will go out there and put in a professional performance.' West Ham go into the second leg as strong favourites but know it's not just their Birkirkara opponents that they will have to contend with at kick-off. Temperatures in the Maltese town are set to hit 30C (86F) with Upton Park boss Slaven Bilic comparing the humid conditions to a 'sauna'.
Reid echoed his manager's sentiments describing the heat and humidity as 'walking into a brick wall,' but having played in the Middle East, South Africa and China before he is confident that he and his team-mates will be able to adjust come game time. 'I think we are going to have to manage the game in the heat and use our experience and it's just one of those things you have to deal with,' the defender added. 'It's a factor and we have to make sure we manage how it affects us and we'll do our best to do so. 'Getting off the plane it was like walking into a brick wall. It's just one of those things. We knew it was going to be a hot place to come to and we will feel how it is in our training session, so we will see how it is for the game.
'I have played competitive matches in heat before and it is a factor, but we are professional you don't have to worry about it too much. We'll prepare for it, hydrate as well as we can and, come game time, we will be ready for the game.'
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Slaven Bilic admits new West Ham signing Manuel Lanzini isn't very strong but backs him to succeed
HITC
Damien Lucas
Slaven Bilic concedes he has taken a gamble on new West Ham United signing Manuel Lanzini adapting to the Premier League but is backing him to do just that. Speaking after making the young Argentine playmaker his seventh signing of a busy summer, Bilic told West Ham's official website he might have 'hit the jackpot' by securing his capture. The 22-year-old was another in a long line of skilful Argentinians who were likened to Lionel Messi when he broke through at River Plate as a 17-year-old. The tricky ace, nicknamed 'the Jewel', has a very similar style to Manchester United's Angel Di Maria but somewhat bizarrely spent last season playing in the footballing backwater that is the UAE Arabian Gulf League for Al Jazira.
Slightly built
Lanzini, who is very slightly built, may struggle with the rigors of the English game according to his new boss, but Bilic - who has been chasing the player for the last two years while manager of Besiktas - has backed him to be a success. "He's going to add even more creativity in the crucial parts of the pitch," Bilic told whufc.com. "I am confident and I'm hopeful that he can adapt. We're going to see. He's not very strong but he rides challenges, he doesn't go down. "So I hope he could be bingo for us. I am really hopeful and I think I have a feeling that he's going to help us a lot."
Honour of number 10 shirt at River Plate impressed new boss
Bilic was impressed by the fact Lanzini took on the pressure of the famous number 10 shirt at a massive club like River Plate at a young age. The former Croatia boss said Lanzini can play in any positions in the final third including off the main striker and hopes he can add more creativity like fellow signing Dimitri Payet. But Bilic was reluctant to put his new signing under too much pressure when asked how he compares to other playmakers he has managed, such as Luka Modric, saying he must be given time to find his feet.
Busy Hammers
Lanzini is the latest signing in what has been a busy summer in east London. So far the Hammers have brought in goalkeeper Darren Randolph on a free transfer, midfielders Pedro Obiang and Payet for a combined total of around £15 million, defender Angelo Ogbonna for around £8 million and Carl Jenkinson in on loan again from Arsenal for a fee believed to be £2 million. The Irons had already signed left back Stephen Hendrie from Scottish side Hamilton back in January and he officially became a West Ham player on July 1st.
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Italian magazine labels Juventus' sale of Ogbonna to West Ham a 'masterpiece'
HITC
Stephen Pickering
Juventus have been praised for selling Angelo Ogbonna to West Ham United for such a high price. Italian magazine Guerin Sportivo praised Juventus for selling Angelo Ogbonna to West Ham United for such a high price, dubbing the deal 'a masterpiece'. The sports magazine, which has been established in Italy for over one hundred years, also commented on how most of Europe's top sides have got weaker of the course of the summer and praised Juventus for doing so well financially in all of their deals, including the imminent departure of Arturo Vidal to Bayern Munich Ogbonna was well received in England, so the comments from the Italian magazine are completely out of the blue. However, it is unlikely to change Hammers fans' mind on what looks to be a positive signing for the club.
Will Ogbonna be a good signing for West Ham?
Last season, Ogbonna made 30 appearances for Juventus in all competitions, but was left on the bench in all three of their cup finals – Champions League, Supercoppa Italiana and Coppa Italia. It's safe to say he wasn't the most important member of Massimiliano Allegri's side and that is shown in the bargain £7.69 million it took for the East London club to get the green light for his signature. Nevertheless, before joining Juventus, he was arguably the key man in a very good Torino side and finished the 2012-2013 season as their captain. For the price West Ham have paid, it is definitely a gamble worth taking in their position as he has been a member of a side that has dominated Italian football for a long period of time.
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Report: West Ham risk losing Amalfitano and Sakho, unnamed clubs register interest
HITC
Olly Dawes
Unnamed clubs are reportedly monitoring West Ham duo Morgan Amaltifano and Diafra Sakho. According to the Daily Mail, West Ham are left sweating as unnamed clubs line up moves for both Morgan Amalfitano and Diafra Sakho. The Hammers have been busy bringing players into Upton Park this summer, but now they could be set to receive interest in two of their stars. The Daily Mail report that, whilst West Ham continue to look for new arrivals, they have also seen clubs register interest in signing Amalfitano and Sakho. Midfielder Amalfitano joined from Marseille last summer, and whilst the 30-year-old was in and out of the side under Sam Allardyce last season, he did make a number of impressive cameo appearances. Meanwhile, striker Sakho - another signing from last summer - made an instant impact in the Premier League, scoring ten league goals in just 23 games for the Hammers. The Senegal international is bound to be attracting interest, and the Daily Mail also reported earlier this summer that Manchester United and Newcastle United are pursuing the 25-year-old ahead of the new Premier League season.
Can West Ham really afford to lose Sakho?
New manager Slaven Bilic is already struggling in attack, with Andy Carroll still injured, leaving him with just Enner Valencia, Modibo Maiga and star striker Sakho. With West Ham needing another striker anyway, they surely can't afford to be losing a forward to a Premier League rival, with Sakho expected to continue his form from last season. It's been a whirlwind 12 months for Sakho, who has gone from Metz to Premier League stardom - and that needs to continue at West Ham rather than anywhere else.
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Manuel Lanzini is our David Silva! Slaven Bilic boasts new West Ham United signing is just like Manchester City playmaker
Manuel Lanzini is West Ham United's seventh summer signing
Lanzini is on loan from United Arab Emirates side Al Jazira
Slaven Bilic admits to tracking the midfielder for over two years
West Ham take on Birkirkara in second round Europa League qualifier
By LUKE AUGUSTUS FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 23:19, 22 July 2015 | UPDATED: 23:19, 22 July 2015
Slaven Bilic has likened West Ham's latest signing Manuel Lanzini to Manchester City star David Silva and is confident that the Argentine will have no problems adapting to the rigours of English football. Lanzini has joined the east London outfit on a season-long loan from UAE side Al-Jazira – with the option of the transfer becoming a permanent one in future. The 22-year-old is nicknamed 'The Jewel' and Bilic believes the former River Plate playmaker has all the attributes needed to glisten in West Ham's midfield – in a similar manner to Spain international Silva at City. 'He's a good player, he's young and it's good that we have got him on loan with an option (to sign),' Bilic said at West Ham's pre-match press conference on Wednesday ahead of their Europa League second round qualifier return leg in Malta against Birkirkara. 'At the age of 20, he was given the No 10 jersey at River Plate who, with Boca Juniors, are a massive club of course. 'I watched him two years ago and I wanted to take him to Besktias, but it was difficult. Now, the chance has come to get him, he's going to help us a lot as he will add even more creativity in the crucial parts of the pitch. 'There are deep playmakers like [Andrea] Pirlo or [Luka] Modric or you have playmakers between the lines up front like Silva. He's more like him but he can play in all positions behind the strikers.' Lanzini becomes West Ham's seventh summer signing following the captures of Dimitri Payet, Angelo Ogbonna, Pedro Obiang, Carl Jenkinson, Stephen Hendrie and Darren Randolph. Having sealed his move, the midfielder spoke of hope his excitement at starting a new chapter in his young career. 'This is very emotional because it is one of the best teams I have ever signed for,' he told West Ham TV. 'It is a very important step for my career and for my future. 'I am looking forward to what is a new era for me. I'm very happy and I look forward to meeting my new team-mates. 'This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in the future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world, so I am looking forward to getting started. 'I am someone who always gives 100 per cent. I'm an attacking player, I can change the game's tempo and I hope to give my maximum for the fans to appreciate me.' The Argentine's arrival to the Premier League follows a well-trodden path by South Americans trying to take England's top flight by storm. Where stars from the continent such as Luis Suarez and Alexis Sanchez have succeeded there have also been those who have failed to adjust to the demands of Premier League football in the past – such as Juan Sebastian Veron and Diego Forlan. And Bilic is confident Lanzini's time at Upton Park will prove a successful one, citing that being South American doesn't necessarily mean you'll struggle in England. 'I am confident, and I am hopeful, I don't know but we will see,' the Croat added on Wednesday. 'I don't agree with that statement, you will always find Croatians who won't adapt, or New Zealanders. To be fair, Argentinians are pretty much European, a lot of them adapt. As I said, I hope he will. 'He's not very strong, but he rides the challenges and doesn't go down – so I hope he could be big for us. 'We've got him on loan, which is still a transfer but not as risky. I have a feeling that he will help us a lot.'
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West Ham 'line up Fabio Borini and Esteban Cambiasso transfers'
Louis Sealey for Metro.co.ukThursday 23 Jul 2015 2:35 am
West Ham 'set to sign two proven Prem superstars in shock transfer deals'
metor.co.uk
West Ham are targeting moves for Liverpool forward Fabio Borini and free agent Esteban Cambiasso, according to reports. The Hammers have enjoyed a productive transfer window and have already recruited midfield trio Manuel Lanzini, Dimitri Payet and Pedro Obiang and defenders Carl Jenkinson, Stephen Hendrie and Angelo Ogbonna. But new boss Slaven Bilic is keen to continue adding to his squad ahead of West Ham's final season at the Boleyn Ground, and his attentions have allegedly turned to Borini and Cambiasso. Reports say the east London club have expressed an interest in Borini, 24, who has struggled to cement his place in Liverpool's first team and has been linked with an exit this summer. Meanwhile, the Evening Standard report the Hammers are also targeting Argentine Cambiasso. Despite playing a major role in keeping the Foxes up last season, the 34-year-old has rejected a new deal at Leicester, potentially opening the door to a move to Upton Park.
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West Ham backed to beat Aston Villa and Sunderland to experienced free agent
London 24
06:45 23 July 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham have been backed into favourites to sign out of contract midfielder Esteban Cambiasso after he rejected a stay at Leicester. Aston Villa were inserted as the likely club the Argentinean would move to but after a number of bets, West Ham are now the team linked. Despite already signing a number of players, including three central midfielders this summer, Slaven Bilic is still on the lookout for new talent. Cambiasso said his farewells to Leicester yesterday and in a statement on his Facebook page, the player said: "I would like to announce that I have decided not to renew my contract with Leicester City. "I have taken this decision only 24 hours after receiving the proposal from Leicester because I want to give the club as much time as possible to find an alternative." Cambiasso's decision will come as a blow to Ranieri, who said on Monday - at his first press conference since replacing the axed Nigel Pearson - that keeping the former Argentina international was a priority. "I've had a conversation with him. I have spoken to him, I know him from Inter Milan, I coached him there. I said to him 'I need you, everybody loves you in Leicester, please come back'," the Italian had said. "He told me he wants to wait and look at all the opportunities offered to him and then he will choose. But we need 'Yes or no' because at the start of the season he is a team leader and if he doesn't come I need another team leader. We don't start the season without a player like him." Cambiasso proved a key figure last season as Leicester won seven and drew one of their final 10 games to retain their Barclays Premier League status. The player's statement continued: "I would like to thank all the fans who last season made me feel proud to be part of a club with an unforgettable spirit and energy. "And a very special thanks to all my team-mates, staff and every people of the club, with whom I have lived one of the most important years of my career, crowned with the remaining EPL status. "Many thanks to everyone, keeping you all forever in my heart. Leicester City Football Club." Cambiasso's next club odds: West Ham 7/4 Aston Villa 11/2 Sunderland 8/1 Spurs 8/1 Leicester 25/1
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Report: Esteban Cambiasso has offers from West Ham, two MLS clubs
HITC
Freddie Shires
The 34-year-old Argentine is on the hunt for a new team after rejecting the chance to return to Leicester City. West Ham United and two MLS clubs have made concrete proposals to free agent midfielder Esteban Cambiasso, according to Argentine news outlet MundoD. The 34-year-old confirmed earlier this week that he would not be returning to Leicester City after one season at the club, writing on his Facebook page: "I have decided not to renew my contract with Leicester City. "I have taken this decision only 24 hours after receiving the proposal from Leicester because I want to give the club as much time as possible to find an alternative."
Now in the process of weighing up his next move, recent reports have stated that new West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is targeting the ex-Argentina international as a potential replacement for Alex Song, whose permanent signing from Barcelona has hit a snag over an ankle problem that could keep him out for up to four months [h/t Daily Mail]. The club are still hoping to tie up a deal for the Cameroonian but, according to the likes of the Telegraph, also see Cambiasso as either a realistic alternative or someone who could come in and cover while his fellow midfielder is sidelined. MundoD's latest report has since claimed that the former Real Madrid and Inter Milan star has received an offer from the Hammers but adds that a possible stateside switch is also on the table. The 52-times capped veteran is said to have received proposals from two unnamed MLS clubs in recent weeks, while he is also believed to be open to a return to Argentina. It is anyone's guess who the two teams in question could be but, after a stellar 2014-15 campaign with Leicester, there is little doubt that Cambiasso would prove a huge hit in North America.
Joining the Foxes on a free transfer last August after his contract at Inter Milan expired, the former Champions League winner went on to win the club's Player of the Year award for his role in their successful survival bid, as he made 33 total appearances and scored five goals. Both the since-departed Nigel Pearson and successor Claudio Ranieri had been hoping to persuade him to remain at the King Power Stadium for at least another season but the fan favourite will instead be heading for pastures new. After his Premier League performances throughout last term, it is no surprise that West Ham would be keen to bring him back to the English top-flight but it sounds like Bilic's side will have to deal with some competition from across the Atlantic first.
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West Ham chief confirms striker hunt is on as Pato, Charlie Austin and Destro linked
London 24
07:00 23 July 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham chairman David Gold has confirmed he wants to sign another striker this summer. The Hammers snapped up Manuel Lanzini on loan for the season yesterday to join the likes of Dimitri Payet, Angelo Ogbonna, Carl Jenkinson, Darren Randoplh and Pedro Obiang as new signings. A striker is looking like the last option for the Hammers with Daifra Sakho taking the brunt of the work with Enner Valencia used out wide and Andy Carroll constantly injured. Gold wants a forward and the likes of Pato, Charlie Austin and Mattia Destro have all been linked but the money may not be there to fork out mega bucks.
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Thursday, July 23
Daily WHUFC News - Birkirkara FC v West Ham United
Catch the Birkirkara match
WHUFC.com
This Thursday Slaven Bilic takes West Ham United to Malta for their crucial
UEFA Europa League second qualifying round second leg tie.
Birkirkara proved stubborn opposition until James Tomkins got the late
winner last week which means the Maltese cup winners will have to come out
and attack at home.
The Hammers have arranged a special promotion with the UK sports channel
Premier Sports which means you can watch this game live and get your first
two months subscription to the channel for only £9.99 with no connection
fee. Use promo code: WESTHAMFC by calling 0871 663 9000 or visit
www.premiersports.tv to set-up the channel*.
Premier have asked, due to high interest, that fans wishing to view the game
don't leave it until the last minute to set-up the channel and go through
the website if possible.
*This offer is available to Sky platform customers only. The channel is also
available via Virgin and on the Premier Player online.
Calls will cost 13 pence per minute plus your telephone company's access
charge.
Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.premiersports.tv for more information.
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Birkirkara FC v West Ham United - Travel Advice
WHUFC.com
Advice for fans making the trip to Malta for our UEFA Europa League second
qualifying round second leg tie
Introduction
West Ham United would like to thank the Club's loyal supporters for
following the team to Malta for the UEFA Europa League second qualifying
round second leg tie with Birkirkara FC.
The Club is rightly proud of its fans and would ask that you uphold the
Hammers' reputation by respecting local customs, amenities and cultures.
Fixture information
Birkirkara FC v West Ham United
UEFA Europa League second qualifying round second leg, Ta' Qali National
Stadium, Ta' Qali, Mdina, Malta, Thursday 23 July 2015, 8.45pm CET (7.45pm
BST).
Stadium information
The Ta' Qali National Stadium, is situated in Ta' Qali, near the historic
city of Mdina, near to the geographical centre of the island of Malta.
The stadium was built on the site of a military airfield that played a huge
role in defending the island during the length siege during the Second World
Ward. Ta' Qali is owned by the Government of Malta and operated by the
Maltese Football Association.
Ta' Qali has an all-seated capacity of 17,797 fans, a grass pitch and has
hosted hundreds of senior international matches since opening in 1981, and
is also the home stadium of Maltese clubs Pieta Hotspurs, Luqa St Andrew's,
Zurrieq, Balzan, Sliema Wanderrs, Msida Saint-Joseph, Gzira United and
Mqabba.
The stadium is accessible by road and West Ham United supporters arriving by
taxi should head for the Millennium Stand, which holds 4,700 supporters and
enter through one of the eight turnstiles.
On entering the stadium, fans will be ticket checked and be searched by
security staff for any prohibited items. Seating is unreserved.
Flags and banners are welcome, but not those on sticks, but may be checked
prior to entry. Please bear in mind that flags of an overtly political,
sectarian or religious nature will not be permitted and may be confiscated.
West Ham United stewards will be travelling to Malta and will be present at
the stadium to assist supporters.
Toilet and catering facilities will be available inside the stadium.
However, UEFA regulations stipulate that alcohol will NOT be on sale inside
the stadium.
Any fans without tickets will NOT be granted access and will be removed from
the stadium area.
Fans who misbehave will be arrested and prosecuted the following day.
Getting to Malta
The Club is not arranging any official travel to Malta.
By plane…
Sitting as it does, in the Mediterranean Sea, flying is by far the quickest
and easiest route to Malta. However, the sheer number of tickets available
to West Ham United supporters means that prices have gone up rapidly since
the two clubs reached the second qualifying round.
A host of airlines offer direct and indirect flight routes between London
and Malta's Luqa International Airport, but you are likely to pay at least
£300 return per person, at time of writing. Even then, you are likely to
have to make a lengthy detour via an airport on the European mainland.
Malta
Malta is a popular holiday destination and has numerous bars, restaurants
and nightclubs which are used to catering for British tourists. Among the
areas with facilities which West Ham United fans might enjoy are nightclub
capital Paceville and St Julian's, where there are bars and clubs in
abundance.
For those who would like to follow more traditional cultural pursuits, Malta
and its neighbouring island of Gozo are blessed with dozens of interesting
and historic attractions.
The capital city, Valetta, is situated in the south east of the island and
contains buildings from the 16th century onwards. It is officially
recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with St. John's Co-Cathedral
being considered the No1 tourist attraction on Malta.
If you have the time, a cruise around the Grand Harbour is not to be missed,
as it gives you a unique view and perspective of the island's
fortifications, which were built to protect Malta's historic Three Cities of
Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua from invasion.
Away from the water, the 4,000-year-old walled city of Mdina is
traffic-free, home to Malta's historic noble families and known as the
Silent City.
General information
The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English.
The currency of Malta is the Euro.
Malta is on Central European Time (CET), one hour ahead of British Summer
Time (BST).
Crime
Crime against tourists is rare although robberies, handbag snatching,
pick-pocketing and theft from parked cars can occur. Safeguard passports,
money and other valuables. Be vigilant when exchanging money and using ATMs,
and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use the hotel's own safe if
possible. There is a low threat from terrorism.
Road Travel
You can drive in Malta using your UK driving licence. Take care while
driving as some roads are in poor condition. Keep to the speed limit. The
FCO advises that local standards of driving are poor.
Taxis
The white taxi service can pick up passengers from anywhere, except
bus-stops.
Taxi services from the Malta International Airport to all localities in
Malta are based on a fixed tariff. For more information click here.
You are advised that it is always better to enquire and agree on a fare
before you enter a taxi.
Public Transport
Malta is served by a world-famous network of around 80 bus routes, many of
which converge on the bustling central hub of the Victoria Bus Station
outside Valetta's city gates.
To reach the stadium from Victoria Bus Station, the 31 service goes direct
but is slow, with the eight-mile journey taking 40 minutes. From Ta' Qali
village, it is a half-hour walk to the stadium.
Alternatively, the X3 Express and 203 services take you to the stadium
itself.
To get to Ta' Qali National Stadium from St Paul's Bay, take the X3 Express
or 202 service.
To reach the stadium from Sliema, take the 203 or 202 services, both of
which run direct and take around 50 minutes to complete the journey.
For more information about public transport in Malta, click here.
Emergency contacts
You may telephone the Emergency Services on the following number:
112 – General Emergencies
Passports
Passports or copies of your passport should be carried with you at all times
for identification purposes if required by the authorities.
British High Commission Contact Details
British High Commission Malta, Whitehall Mansions, Ta' Xbiex Seafront, Ta'
Xbiex, Malta, XBX 1026, Malta
Email – bhcvalletta@fco.gov.uk
Telephone – (+356) 2323 0000
Fax – (+356) 2323 2234
For further FCO advice regarding a visit to Malta, please click here.
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Cresswell ready for free-kick challenge
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell is one of the many people around West Ham United excited by
the arrival of Dimitri Payet - although he is willing to show he is not
ready to give up free-kick just duty yet! Cresswell scored a beauty of a
free-kick against Stoke City last season and had made a habit of regularly
testing the goalkeeper from dead balls. Payet showed his prowess from those
situations by netting at Southend in his first friendly appearance since
arriving from Marseille and Cresswell reckons they can both be a threat from
their respective sides. He said: "I think there'll be a bit of competition
for the free kicks now! Hopefully he can take the right sided ones and I can
have the left sided ones. "Since Dimitri arrived in Ireland he has looked
some player. I wasn't there on Saturday, but the boys have been talking
about how good he was and how good a signing he looks to be for us. "It's
one we're excited about out, and the fans are too."
Cresswell played his second 90 minutes of pre-season in last week's 1-0
victory over Birkirkara in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League second
qualifying round tie and he is ready for the challenge presented by the
Maltese side this Thursday. He added: "We're confident going over there, but
we know it's not going to be easy at the same time, especially travelling
over there in different surroundings. "You'd imagine they'd have a different
approach for the second leg, obviously being 1-0 down. "They are the home
team, but we'll go there, play the same game and try to get through to the
next round."
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The Companion Guide to Birkirkara
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 20th July 2015
By: Maltese Hammer
So it's on to the second leg in Malta! For those who have little idea of
Malta and its football-crazy population I thought I'd give you all some
background.
Malta is small, really small! 26x18 miles with a sister island called Gozo
which is a fifth of the size. Population is 400,000 so we're a bit
overpopulated with people and cars!
We've been ruled by nearly everyone under the sun...Romans, Phoenicians,
Byzantine, the Normans, the Knights of Malta, the French (alas), albeit for
two years and then finally the British from circa 1800 until 1964 when we
gained independence, and I'm sure I've left a country or two out!
We are the only country to be awarded the George Cross, and the country
suffered more bombs than London did during the Blitz. We joined the EU in
1994 and our currency is the Euro which means the rate of exchange is
seriously in your favour. We have our own language which unsurprisingly is
called Maltese, but nearly everyone speaks English to a lesser or greater
degree.
Since we entered the EU, loads of non-Maltese have begun working here
especially in catering, and also the gaming industry, which is huge. For
those who want to visit the island, Valletta and Mdina are a must. And if
you turn up early for the game, there's an aviation museum right next to the
ground which has historic war planes and all, for those interested.
But on to more important matters! Maltese love their football, with a local
passion and an equally if not greater love for teams in England and Italy in
the main, with some fans supporting the obvious German or Spanish sides
(Bayern, Real and Barcelona).
English clubs are the usual suspects...Man United, Arsenal, Liverpool,
Chelsea (yawn, yawn), but you'll find fans of all clubs here. West Ham even
have their own fan club and there's one mate I know who has a season ticket
and flies to London for each and every home game! That's a feat in itself
and even greater when you realise that all, yes, that's all Premier League
games are shown live on TV over here!
Birkirkara are a relatively new club. The older clubs in Malta are
Hibernians, Floriana, Sliema and Valetta. B'kara are well supported locally
and are always among the frontrunners. I'm embarrassed to say that I've been
to the Boleyn more often that I have to see my local side (Valetta) and
you'll find that I am not alone in that respect. That said, the level of
football has improved significantly in the last few years and I can see the
gap between local clubs and the smaller foreign ones closing a bit more.
The atmosphere in the National stadium should be good, even though the
ground has a track around it, which as far as I know serves no purpose
whatsoever! There is safety netting so anyone in lower seats has their view
impaired. That said, although tickets are numbered, no one will stick to
their seat and I am certain that other than the VIP section, you can sit
wherever you like within the section you're in.
West Ham fans are being placed in the Millennium Stand which, believe it or
not, was opened in 2000! It's the newest stand, with good views and by the
time we play the sun will have gone down so no problem seeing the game well!
Maltese fans will be welcoming and lots will come along to see the Irons
even though they support neither B'kara or West Ham! For those who want a
drink or six, there's nothing near the ground. Bugibba, St Pauls Bay, St
Julians are all seaside places with loads of bars and pubs and a 15 to 30
minute drive to the match. Local transport is good but in summer can be
busy, so allow plenty of time if you intend using it.
As for the game? I think West Ham will win 1-0, possibly 2-0, especially
with a week more to prepare and hopefully some more regulars featuring!
I hope you all enjoy your brief stay in Malta... but please bring sunblock
as it's obscenely hot right now! Then again, it is July.
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Hammers to hit Mediterranean heatwave
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st July 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United fans travelling to Malta for the Europa League clash with
Birkirkara this Thursday are being advised to pack plenty of sun protection
cream! Temperatures in Malta's capital Valletta hit 36° centigrade - that's
an overwhelming 97° fahrenheit - this afternoon, just two days before West
Ham are due to play in the second leg of their Europa League second
qualifying round tie. And according to local weather reports the temperature
will drop slightly over the next 48 hours, but is predicted to remain as
high as 33° centigrade (or 91° fahrenheit) on the day of the game - dropping
to the high 70s in time for kick off (8.45pm local time).
West Ham - who are attempting to expand upon a narrow 1-0 lead from the
first leg at the Boleyn Ground last week - fly out to Malta tomorrow
morning, following tonight's pre-season friendly at Colchester.
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Expectations high for Birkirkara vs West Ham
Times Of Malta
Valley of the tigers,' proclaims a banner in front of the Birkirkara FC
clubhouse, as elderly people talk football and gather for tea.
Valley Road in Malta's largest town is testimony of the anticipation
building up ahead of tomorrow's return match against English team West Ham
United. Only last week, Birkirkara lost 1-0 in the dying moments of the
match after putting up a spirited performance at the Boleyn Ground to leave
their fans hopeful for the return at Ta' Qali tomorrow. There is a sense of
cautious optimism among some of Birkirkara's more famous supporters.
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Birkirkara - West Ham Preview: Cresswell expecting Hammers to progress
Goal.com
By Peter Thompson
22 Jul 2015 07:58:39
Slaven Bilic's side hold a 1-0 lead from the second qualifying round
first-leg clash against the Maltese Cup winners, with Inverness CT or Astra
waiting in the next round
Aaron Cresswell expects West Ham to avoid a Europa League shock and seal
their place in the third qualifying round when they take on Birkirkara in
the second leg on Thursday.
The Premier League club needed a late James Tomkins goal to secure a 1-0
victory in the first leg at Upton Park last week.
It proved to be a frustrating evening for the London club in front of an
expectant crowd of 33,048 who were no doubt expecting a more resounding win
in Slaven Bilic's first competitive game in charge.
Maltese Cup winners Birkirkara produced a resolute display to keep West Ham
at bay until Tomkins spared the home side's blushes by coming up with the
winner after 90 minutes.
Inverness Caledonian Thistle or Astra will be the opponents in the next
round for whoever comes out on top at the Ta' Qali National Stadium on
Thursday and left-back Cresswell is optimistic West Ham will march on.
He told the club's official website: "We're confident going over there, but
we know it's not going to be easy at the same time, especially travelling
over there in different surroundings.
"You'd imagine they'd have a different approach for the second leg,
obviously being 1-0 down. They are the home team, but we'll go there, play
the same game and try to get through to the next round."
It would be a major surprise if Birkirkara continue their European
adventure, but teenage forward Kurt Zammit took heart from their first-leg
display.
He said: "As we knew before the match, this was going to be a very hard
battle. We studied our opponents well and obeyed all the instructions of our
coach and doing so, we didn't let them penetrate easily.
"We did what few expected, we were so close for a historic result. Getting a
standing ovation from the 33,000 home supporters at full-time shows how much
we deserved a good result.
He added: "All the team was a bit disappointed after a brilliant display in
away match, and having the game under control, and then conceding in the
last minute.
"It was harsh, but everything can be won or lost, in the next match. If
tactically we play as we played away, we will do well for sure."
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Noble and squad will feel the heat
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Mark Noble has admitted it's good to be taking a lead to Malta tomorrow
evening (Thurs) after getting a win over Kirkirkara despite the squad being
"unfit." The midfielder told the offiial site: ""Last Thursday was only our
second game we've played in pre-season, so we're still unfit really and it
was good to get the win. I know it was a late goal from Tonks, but they made
it difficult for us. "They were enthusiastic, they ran about a lot, but we
got the win which was the most important thing and now we've got to go out
there and try to finish the job."
The Irons face not only a sprightly opposition but will be performing in
temperatures of over 30C on the 14 mile wide holiday island
He continued: "It will be a challenge with the heat. I don't think the game
will be as quick was it was the other night because of the heat, but we're
looking forward to it. "We've had to take the games seriously from day one
because of the Europa League. We've got six games in qualifying before the
season starts, and that's going to be tough but we're looking forward to
it."
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Payet and Sakho banned for Malta
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho remain banned for the second leg of the
Europa League qualifier in Malta this Thursday evening and have not traveled
with the team. Diafra Sakho is serving the second match of a three match ban
after his sending off in the first round. He was given a red card 14
minutes into the match for an off the ball incident against FC Lusitans in
the second leg away in Andorra.
Dimitri Payet is serving his second match of a two match ban he received at
Marseille after being sent off against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions
League in December 2013 after diving in the box for his second yellow. UEFA
regulations mean suspensions carry over with the player to his next UEFA
competitive match. Both are expected to be included in the squad which face
Charlton in a pre-match friendly on Saturday.
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Adrian hails warm Maltese welcome
WHUFC.com
Adrian was bowled over by the warm welcome as West Ham United arrived in a
sweltering Malta on Wednesday afternoon. The Hammers touched down at the
island's International Airport at just after midday, with temperatures in
the Mediterranean touching 35C (95F). Hundreds of supporters were on hand to
greet the players and staff came through Arrivals, and the goalkeeper,
manager Slaven Bilic and his squad were delighted to pose for photographs
and sign autographs. The No13, who was typically in high demand, told West
Ham TV he cannot wait to play against Birkirkara FC in Thursday's UEFA
Europa League second qualifying round second leg tie at the country's Ta'
Qali National Stadium. "It's exciting for us because for most of us it is
the first time we have played in Malta, so it is a new country for us and we
are excited about playing against Birkirkara here," he exclaimed. "We want
to get a good result and pass to the next round."
Hailing from Seville in the far south of Spain, Adrian is one of the few
among the West Ham squad to be used to such high temperatures, and he had
words of advice for his teammates on how to deal with the hot weather. The
Hammers will train at Ta' Qali this evening to acclimatise to the abnormal
conditions, but the goalkeeper said there are other steps that the players
can take to keep cool. "For me it's not a problem because I am adapted to
this hot climate but I would tell them to just drink a lot of water and to
take a cold shower before the game!" he advised. With just a one-goal lead
to protect going into Thursday's clash with the Maltese FA Trophy winners,
West Ham will need to keep their cool when they take to the pitch. "I have
confidence in my teammates but we need to be careful because Birkirkara are
playing at home this time and we need to keep a clean sheet and score an
early goal – that would be very important for us," Adrian confirmed. "They
have quality players and they have been playing in Europe for a long time,
so we need to be careful of them and to keep our mentality and strength in
our team. I am confident we will win and go through."
Finally, Adrian had words of thanks for the Claret and Blue Army who turned
out in their droves to welcome the Hammers to Malta – and will be out in
force again at Ta' Qali on matchday. "It's an amazing and important thing
for us," he smiled. "The Hammers are around the world and to see them here
in Malta is fantastic. We are looking forward to having Hammers from Malta,
England and other countries there to support us in the game."
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Reid ready for hot Malta test
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid says West Ham United will approach Thursday's UEFA Europa
League tie with Birkirkara FC like any other match. The Hammers will face
searing heat, a partisan 15,000-strong Maltese crowd and opponents
determined to overturn their 1-0 first-leg deficit on home turf at the Ta'
Qali National Stadium. Having captained both West Ham and New Zealand and
played in the Middle East, South Africa and China, Reid insists he and his
teammates will be fully prepared for the Stripes. "I think we are going to
have to manage the game in the heat and use our experience and it's just one
of those things you have to deal with," said the defender. "It's a factor
and we have to make sure we manage how it affects us and we'll do our best
to do so. "Getting off the plane it was like walking into a brick wall. It's
just one of those things. We knew it was going to be a hot place to come to
and we will feel how it is in our training session, so we will see how it is
for the game. "I have played competitive matches in heat before and it is a
factor, but we are professional you don't have to worry about it too much.
We'll prepare for it, hydrate as well as we can and, come game time, we will
be ready for the game."
Reid made his European debut for the Hammers in the first leg, having
previously played in continental competition as a youngster for Danish side
FC Midtjylland in 2007 and 2008. Having signed a new long-term contract
earlier this year, the 26-year-old is now focused on achieving great things
in a Claret and Blue shirt, starting with a run in the Europa League this
season. "Yes, playing in Europe was one of the things I wanted to do and I
felt I could achieve it with this club," he confirmed. "These first few
rounds are tough games against teams we are not really used to, but we want
to progress and reach the group stage, obviously. "I think we have shown by
our dedication and training that we aim to do that and I am sure, come
Thursday night, we will go out there and put in a professional performance."
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Miccoli - We've got our weapons too
WHUFC.com
Experienced Birkirkara frontman Fabrizio Miccoli insists he saw plenty in
the first leg at the Boleyn Ground to suggest the Maltese outfit have a
serious job on their hands to overturn the Hammers' one-goal lead. The
36-year-old Italian counts Juventus, Fiorentina and Palermo among his former
employers and is determined to use the nous acquired in some two decades in
the game's upper echelons to give his new employers a helping hand. While
Miccoli is naturally excited by the prospect of a high-profile tie at
Malta's Ta' Qali national stadium on Thursday, he concedes the second
qualifying round draw could have been a whole lot kinder. "It goes without
saying that we are fully aware of what we're up against, it was clear from
the first leg," he said. "But we also have our own weapons and we will try
to use them. As long as we give everything we can on the pitch, nobody can
ask any more of us. "I believe that Maltese football is on the up, not only
with Birkirkara, but also with other Maltese teams in Europe lately, there
seems to be an upward trend. We were both fortunate and unfortunate to come
up against West Ham. Fortunate in that it's a prestigious encounter, there
are also going to be 15, 16,000 people at the stadium. On the other hand, we
could have come up against a team on an equal footing to us and maybe had a
better chance of qualifying. In tomorrow's game we will try our best and see
what happens."
The former Italian international only joined Birkirkara in June, but already
feels part of the furniture and hopes to return the favour with West Ham in
town. He continued: "From day one I was considered one of them. They helped
me settle in and I feel really settled now. My aim is to try and help them
with my experience and do whatever it takes to help them grow in whatever
way I can."
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Tedesco - 'We are going to give it our best shot'
WHUFC.com
Birkirkara FC head coach Giovanni Tedesco says his players will 'give it
their best shot' to knock West Ham United out of the UEFA Europa League. The
Hammers arrive in Malta 1-0 up from their first leg of their second
qualifying round tie, having dominated proceedings at the Boleyn Ground, but
the circumstances and surroundings will be very different at the Ta' Qali
National Stadium. The Maltese FA Trophy winners be on home turf and cheered
on by more than 10,000 supporters, but they will also have the weather on
their side, with daytime temperatures on the Mediterranean island
approaching 35C (95F). While he knows his team face a very tough task to
oust Slaven Bilic's side from the competition, Tedesco says they are in
confident mood following their resilient first-leg showing in east London,
and a fine first qualifying round win over Armenian club Ulisses. "This is
an easy match to prepare for because we are playing against a very good team
and the motivation is high," said Tedesco, who was part of the Palermo squad
which knocked West Ham out of the UEFA Cup nine seasons ago. "We are going
to give it our best shot and the rest will take care of itself. "We know we
have to score a goal but it is not something we can just say and will happen
on the pitch. This is something completely different. "There has been a
growth in our team and I want these games to become something of the norm,
and not something that is looked as an extraordinary experience. "We know
that the team comes before everything else and we feel that, with our
performance at Upton Park, following on from our performance away in Armenia
we are on the right track to becoming a team that looks at these games as
something of the norm."
We know we have to score a goal but it is not something we can just say and
will happen on the pitch. This is something completely different More than
15,000 tickets have reportedly been sold for the tie, which was switched
from Birkirkara's own ground to the 17,800-capacity Ta' Qali National
Stadium. Tedesco says the support of Maltese fans, regardless of their usual
club commitments, will inspire his players to an even higher level of
performance. "Definitely the 15,000 people who come and support us will be a
great help, but that is not enough, because we know we are playing against a
very good team so other things come into play. "Definitely the supporters
can give us a big lift and hopefully we can use their support to help us
overcome our opponent on Thursday."
Aside from the huge level of support from the stands, Tedesco is also
banking on his star player Fabrizio Miccoli being fit for the second leg.
The head coach revealed that the former Italy international forward, now 36,
has been carrying an injury and may miss the game. "We do have a full squad,
but we do have a number of question marks over three or four players,
including [captain] Paul [Fenech, who was substituted in the first leg] and
also Fabrizio, who trained individually during the week. "We still have 24
hours until the match and will have our last training session after the
press conference and we will observe the situation in the hours ahead of the
match."
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Bilic: it's like a sauna out here!
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 22nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic likened the oppressive heat in Malta to a sauna this afternoon,
when speaking during his pre-match press conference this evening. Bilic, who
arrived with his squad for the second leg of their Europa League clash with
Birkirkara was surprised by the extreme heat, which even the locals have
been complaining about in recent days. However he believes his squad will be
capable of dealing with the adverse conditions as they attempt to secure
passage to the third qualifying round, and a meeting with either Inverness
CT or Romanian outfit Astra Giurgiu. "The heat is a problem," he admitted.
"When we came it was like a sauna, but we are experienced and should be good
enough to dictate the game. "The score [in the first leg] was not ideal; we
were hoping to score one more goal. We should have scored earlier, which we
deserved, but in the end we had a positive result - and it should be enough
if we score."
And even though they are behind in the tie, Bilic feels that his opponents
are unlikely to press from the start - preferring instead to remain compact
and defensively solid, as per last Thursday's tie at the Boleyn. "In the
first leg, they went on the pitch as a unit and that impressed me most, as
did the two centre-halves and the 'keeper," he said. "I hope they will
change their approach, but I don't think they will. They might press, but
it's down to us how we let them play."
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Maltese cross as West Ham insult local club
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 22nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's arrival in Malta earlier today was a controversial one -
after a slur against FC Birkirkara's rivals Floriana was posted on the
club's official social media channels. Upon arriving in Malta earlier this
afternoon ahead of tomorrow night's Europa League clash, West Ham United
posted images of supporters greeting local fans vis their social media
channels. However the club unwittingly including a location tag that
included a vile comment directed at Birkirkara's local rivals - something
that led to a furious response from Floriana vice president Matt Paris.
"It's shameful that an English Premier League club engaged in this sort of
attitude," he said in response to the foul tweet. "West Ham United, shame on
you."
Whoops-a-daisy: the foul message (which basically translates to 'f*ck
Floriana') found its way on to Twitter and Facebook before being spotted
According to the Times of Malta, Floriana mayor Davinia Sammut Hili - a keen
supporter of her local team - also criticised West Ham, but acknowledged
that the club had moved to rectify the mistake as soon as it had been noted.
It is unclear how the offensive location tag came to be included in the
club's posts. Last season Birkirkara finished third in the Maltese Premiere
League, two places ahead of Floriana - who finished seven points behind in
fifth place.
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Birkirkara v West Ham preview: Hammers take slender lead to Malta
Last Updated: 22/07/15 5:37pm
SSN
West Ham take a slender lead to Malta on Thursday night for the second leg
of their Europa League second qualifying round tie against Birkirkara. James
Tomkins rescued the Hammers with a 90th-minute strike to give Slaven Bilic's
men a 1-0 win in the first leg at Upton Park last week. The Premier League
side were expected to brush the Maltese Cup winners aside, but West Ham will
now have to be on their guard to ensure they make it through to the third
and final qualifying round. West Ham could meet Scottish Premiership side
Inverness at the next stage after they were drawn together, but John Hughes'
men will have to overturn a 1-0 deficit to Astra Giurgiu to make it through.
After the Hammers' win last week, Bilic admitted he was relieved Tomkins
gave them a first-leg lead but did say he was pleased with his side's
display. "It is more relief because we scored at the end, but I think we
played well, especially the first half," he said. "We didn't play really
quick, but quick enough against this type of opposition. They are a decent
side, they are not, with all respect, Real Madrid, but they are not like the
team from Andorra or San Marino. They can make your job more difficult."
The Croatian later admitted it would be both an adventure and a challenge if
they progressed in the competition. "The Europa League is great for the
club, you could see with the spectators, they are enjoying it, against
people from Andorra and Malta - they all love to come for a European night,"
he said. "It is great for a team - it gains not only confidence, but they
are different types of games, so it is good for us and for me. "But on the
other hand, it drains you. "I did it a few times last season, when it was
great for Besiktas, but it was also very difficult to play on Thursday in
Liverpool, then on the Sunday you have an away game in Turkey."
Team news
Dimitri Payet impressed on his West Ham debut as he scored twice against
Southend at the weekend, but he is unavailable on Thursday due to
suspension.
Diafra Sakho is also banned from playing in their second-leg clash, but
Bilic is still expected to name a strong line-up in Malta.
Mauro Zarate and Modibo Maiga led the line for the Hammers in the first leg,
while Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan started in midfield, and all four could
feature again, with Adrian expected to be in goal once more.
Opta facts
West Ham have won three European games in a row - after failing to win any
of the previous four.
Birkirkara failed to register a single shot on target in the first leg.
English sides have won six of the seven meetings against Maltese clubs -
drawing the other - scoring 26 goals and conceding just one.
Betting
West Ham are 12/1 to be left to rue their disappointing first-leg showing
and be knocked out of the Europa League, with Birkirkara up against
substantially shorter odds for the return encounter. Sky Bet offered 50/1 on
the Maltese outfit winning at Upton Park but go 7/1 for the minnows to
triumph on home turf, while the Hammers are 1/3 for the win. Slaven Bilic's
men are considered 50/1 chances to win Europe's second-tier tournament, with
fellow Premier League outfits Tottenham, Liverpool (both 16/1) and
Southampton (25/1) all considered more realistic contenders.
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Kouyate joins Europa League squad in Malta
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Five days ago first team coach Julian Dicks cited fitness as the reason for
Cheik Kouyate being unavailable for the first leg of the Europa league match
against Birkirkara at the Boleyn ground.
Kouyate played sixty minutes in a pre-season friendly at Roots Hall last
Saturday as West Ham beat Southend United in 3-2.
Just six days later Kouyate must now be deemed fit enough to be included in
the squad that flew to Malta at lunchtime as he was pictured in his fetching
long flight socks stepping off the chartered jet in the bright sunshine.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
This Thursday Slaven Bilic takes West Ham United to Malta for their crucial
UEFA Europa League second qualifying round second leg tie.
Birkirkara proved stubborn opposition until James Tomkins got the late
winner last week which means the Maltese cup winners will have to come out
and attack at home.
The Hammers have arranged a special promotion with the UK sports channel
Premier Sports which means you can watch this game live and get your first
two months subscription to the channel for only £9.99 with no connection
fee. Use promo code: WESTHAMFC by calling 0871 663 9000 or visit
www.premiersports.tv to set-up the channel*.
Premier have asked, due to high interest, that fans wishing to view the game
don't leave it until the last minute to set-up the channel and go through
the website if possible.
*This offer is available to Sky platform customers only. The channel is also
available via Virgin and on the Premier Player online.
Calls will cost 13 pence per minute plus your telephone company's access
charge.
Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.premiersports.tv for more information.
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Birkirkara FC v West Ham United - Travel Advice
WHUFC.com
Advice for fans making the trip to Malta for our UEFA Europa League second
qualifying round second leg tie
Introduction
West Ham United would like to thank the Club's loyal supporters for
following the team to Malta for the UEFA Europa League second qualifying
round second leg tie with Birkirkara FC.
The Club is rightly proud of its fans and would ask that you uphold the
Hammers' reputation by respecting local customs, amenities and cultures.
Fixture information
Birkirkara FC v West Ham United
UEFA Europa League second qualifying round second leg, Ta' Qali National
Stadium, Ta' Qali, Mdina, Malta, Thursday 23 July 2015, 8.45pm CET (7.45pm
BST).
Stadium information
The Ta' Qali National Stadium, is situated in Ta' Qali, near the historic
city of Mdina, near to the geographical centre of the island of Malta.
The stadium was built on the site of a military airfield that played a huge
role in defending the island during the length siege during the Second World
Ward. Ta' Qali is owned by the Government of Malta and operated by the
Maltese Football Association.
Ta' Qali has an all-seated capacity of 17,797 fans, a grass pitch and has
hosted hundreds of senior international matches since opening in 1981, and
is also the home stadium of Maltese clubs Pieta Hotspurs, Luqa St Andrew's,
Zurrieq, Balzan, Sliema Wanderrs, Msida Saint-Joseph, Gzira United and
Mqabba.
The stadium is accessible by road and West Ham United supporters arriving by
taxi should head for the Millennium Stand, which holds 4,700 supporters and
enter through one of the eight turnstiles.
On entering the stadium, fans will be ticket checked and be searched by
security staff for any prohibited items. Seating is unreserved.
Flags and banners are welcome, but not those on sticks, but may be checked
prior to entry. Please bear in mind that flags of an overtly political,
sectarian or religious nature will not be permitted and may be confiscated.
West Ham United stewards will be travelling to Malta and will be present at
the stadium to assist supporters.
Toilet and catering facilities will be available inside the stadium.
However, UEFA regulations stipulate that alcohol will NOT be on sale inside
the stadium.
Any fans without tickets will NOT be granted access and will be removed from
the stadium area.
Fans who misbehave will be arrested and prosecuted the following day.
Getting to Malta
The Club is not arranging any official travel to Malta.
By plane…
Sitting as it does, in the Mediterranean Sea, flying is by far the quickest
and easiest route to Malta. However, the sheer number of tickets available
to West Ham United supporters means that prices have gone up rapidly since
the two clubs reached the second qualifying round.
A host of airlines offer direct and indirect flight routes between London
and Malta's Luqa International Airport, but you are likely to pay at least
£300 return per person, at time of writing. Even then, you are likely to
have to make a lengthy detour via an airport on the European mainland.
Malta
Malta is a popular holiday destination and has numerous bars, restaurants
and nightclubs which are used to catering for British tourists. Among the
areas with facilities which West Ham United fans might enjoy are nightclub
capital Paceville and St Julian's, where there are bars and clubs in
abundance.
For those who would like to follow more traditional cultural pursuits, Malta
and its neighbouring island of Gozo are blessed with dozens of interesting
and historic attractions.
The capital city, Valetta, is situated in the south east of the island and
contains buildings from the 16th century onwards. It is officially
recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with St. John's Co-Cathedral
being considered the No1 tourist attraction on Malta.
If you have the time, a cruise around the Grand Harbour is not to be missed,
as it gives you a unique view and perspective of the island's
fortifications, which were built to protect Malta's historic Three Cities of
Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua from invasion.
Away from the water, the 4,000-year-old walled city of Mdina is
traffic-free, home to Malta's historic noble families and known as the
Silent City.
General information
The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English.
The currency of Malta is the Euro.
Malta is on Central European Time (CET), one hour ahead of British Summer
Time (BST).
Crime
Crime against tourists is rare although robberies, handbag snatching,
pick-pocketing and theft from parked cars can occur. Safeguard passports,
money and other valuables. Be vigilant when exchanging money and using ATMs,
and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use the hotel's own safe if
possible. There is a low threat from terrorism.
Road Travel
You can drive in Malta using your UK driving licence. Take care while
driving as some roads are in poor condition. Keep to the speed limit. The
FCO advises that local standards of driving are poor.
Taxis
The white taxi service can pick up passengers from anywhere, except
bus-stops.
Taxi services from the Malta International Airport to all localities in
Malta are based on a fixed tariff. For more information click here.
You are advised that it is always better to enquire and agree on a fare
before you enter a taxi.
Public Transport
Malta is served by a world-famous network of around 80 bus routes, many of
which converge on the bustling central hub of the Victoria Bus Station
outside Valetta's city gates.
To reach the stadium from Victoria Bus Station, the 31 service goes direct
but is slow, with the eight-mile journey taking 40 minutes. From Ta' Qali
village, it is a half-hour walk to the stadium.
Alternatively, the X3 Express and 203 services take you to the stadium
itself.
To get to Ta' Qali National Stadium from St Paul's Bay, take the X3 Express
or 202 service.
To reach the stadium from Sliema, take the 203 or 202 services, both of
which run direct and take around 50 minutes to complete the journey.
For more information about public transport in Malta, click here.
Emergency contacts
You may telephone the Emergency Services on the following number:
112 – General Emergencies
Passports
Passports or copies of your passport should be carried with you at all times
for identification purposes if required by the authorities.
British High Commission Contact Details
British High Commission Malta, Whitehall Mansions, Ta' Xbiex Seafront, Ta'
Xbiex, Malta, XBX 1026, Malta
Email – bhcvalletta@fco.gov.uk
Telephone – (+356) 2323 0000
Fax – (+356) 2323 2234
For further FCO advice regarding a visit to Malta, please click here.
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Cresswell ready for free-kick challenge
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell is one of the many people around West Ham United excited by
the arrival of Dimitri Payet - although he is willing to show he is not
ready to give up free-kick just duty yet! Cresswell scored a beauty of a
free-kick against Stoke City last season and had made a habit of regularly
testing the goalkeeper from dead balls. Payet showed his prowess from those
situations by netting at Southend in his first friendly appearance since
arriving from Marseille and Cresswell reckons they can both be a threat from
their respective sides. He said: "I think there'll be a bit of competition
for the free kicks now! Hopefully he can take the right sided ones and I can
have the left sided ones. "Since Dimitri arrived in Ireland he has looked
some player. I wasn't there on Saturday, but the boys have been talking
about how good he was and how good a signing he looks to be for us. "It's
one we're excited about out, and the fans are too."
Cresswell played his second 90 minutes of pre-season in last week's 1-0
victory over Birkirkara in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League second
qualifying round tie and he is ready for the challenge presented by the
Maltese side this Thursday. He added: "We're confident going over there, but
we know it's not going to be easy at the same time, especially travelling
over there in different surroundings. "You'd imagine they'd have a different
approach for the second leg, obviously being 1-0 down. "They are the home
team, but we'll go there, play the same game and try to get through to the
next round."
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The Companion Guide to Birkirkara
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 20th July 2015
By: Maltese Hammer
So it's on to the second leg in Malta! For those who have little idea of
Malta and its football-crazy population I thought I'd give you all some
background.
Malta is small, really small! 26x18 miles with a sister island called Gozo
which is a fifth of the size. Population is 400,000 so we're a bit
overpopulated with people and cars!
We've been ruled by nearly everyone under the sun...Romans, Phoenicians,
Byzantine, the Normans, the Knights of Malta, the French (alas), albeit for
two years and then finally the British from circa 1800 until 1964 when we
gained independence, and I'm sure I've left a country or two out!
We are the only country to be awarded the George Cross, and the country
suffered more bombs than London did during the Blitz. We joined the EU in
1994 and our currency is the Euro which means the rate of exchange is
seriously in your favour. We have our own language which unsurprisingly is
called Maltese, but nearly everyone speaks English to a lesser or greater
degree.
Since we entered the EU, loads of non-Maltese have begun working here
especially in catering, and also the gaming industry, which is huge. For
those who want to visit the island, Valletta and Mdina are a must. And if
you turn up early for the game, there's an aviation museum right next to the
ground which has historic war planes and all, for those interested.
But on to more important matters! Maltese love their football, with a local
passion and an equally if not greater love for teams in England and Italy in
the main, with some fans supporting the obvious German or Spanish sides
(Bayern, Real and Barcelona).
English clubs are the usual suspects...Man United, Arsenal, Liverpool,
Chelsea (yawn, yawn), but you'll find fans of all clubs here. West Ham even
have their own fan club and there's one mate I know who has a season ticket
and flies to London for each and every home game! That's a feat in itself
and even greater when you realise that all, yes, that's all Premier League
games are shown live on TV over here!
Birkirkara are a relatively new club. The older clubs in Malta are
Hibernians, Floriana, Sliema and Valetta. B'kara are well supported locally
and are always among the frontrunners. I'm embarrassed to say that I've been
to the Boleyn more often that I have to see my local side (Valetta) and
you'll find that I am not alone in that respect. That said, the level of
football has improved significantly in the last few years and I can see the
gap between local clubs and the smaller foreign ones closing a bit more.
The atmosphere in the National stadium should be good, even though the
ground has a track around it, which as far as I know serves no purpose
whatsoever! There is safety netting so anyone in lower seats has their view
impaired. That said, although tickets are numbered, no one will stick to
their seat and I am certain that other than the VIP section, you can sit
wherever you like within the section you're in.
West Ham fans are being placed in the Millennium Stand which, believe it or
not, was opened in 2000! It's the newest stand, with good views and by the
time we play the sun will have gone down so no problem seeing the game well!
Maltese fans will be welcoming and lots will come along to see the Irons
even though they support neither B'kara or West Ham! For those who want a
drink or six, there's nothing near the ground. Bugibba, St Pauls Bay, St
Julians are all seaside places with loads of bars and pubs and a 15 to 30
minute drive to the match. Local transport is good but in summer can be
busy, so allow plenty of time if you intend using it.
As for the game? I think West Ham will win 1-0, possibly 2-0, especially
with a week more to prepare and hopefully some more regulars featuring!
I hope you all enjoy your brief stay in Malta... but please bring sunblock
as it's obscenely hot right now! Then again, it is July.
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Hammers to hit Mediterranean heatwave
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st July 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United fans travelling to Malta for the Europa League clash with
Birkirkara this Thursday are being advised to pack plenty of sun protection
cream! Temperatures in Malta's capital Valletta hit 36° centigrade - that's
an overwhelming 97° fahrenheit - this afternoon, just two days before West
Ham are due to play in the second leg of their Europa League second
qualifying round tie. And according to local weather reports the temperature
will drop slightly over the next 48 hours, but is predicted to remain as
high as 33° centigrade (or 91° fahrenheit) on the day of the game - dropping
to the high 70s in time for kick off (8.45pm local time).
West Ham - who are attempting to expand upon a narrow 1-0 lead from the
first leg at the Boleyn Ground last week - fly out to Malta tomorrow
morning, following tonight's pre-season friendly at Colchester.
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Expectations high for Birkirkara vs West Ham
Times Of Malta
Valley of the tigers,' proclaims a banner in front of the Birkirkara FC
clubhouse, as elderly people talk football and gather for tea.
Valley Road in Malta's largest town is testimony of the anticipation
building up ahead of tomorrow's return match against English team West Ham
United. Only last week, Birkirkara lost 1-0 in the dying moments of the
match after putting up a spirited performance at the Boleyn Ground to leave
their fans hopeful for the return at Ta' Qali tomorrow. There is a sense of
cautious optimism among some of Birkirkara's more famous supporters.
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Birkirkara - West Ham Preview: Cresswell expecting Hammers to progress
Goal.com
By Peter Thompson
22 Jul 2015 07:58:39
Slaven Bilic's side hold a 1-0 lead from the second qualifying round
first-leg clash against the Maltese Cup winners, with Inverness CT or Astra
waiting in the next round
Aaron Cresswell expects West Ham to avoid a Europa League shock and seal
their place in the third qualifying round when they take on Birkirkara in
the second leg on Thursday.
The Premier League club needed a late James Tomkins goal to secure a 1-0
victory in the first leg at Upton Park last week.
It proved to be a frustrating evening for the London club in front of an
expectant crowd of 33,048 who were no doubt expecting a more resounding win
in Slaven Bilic's first competitive game in charge.
Maltese Cup winners Birkirkara produced a resolute display to keep West Ham
at bay until Tomkins spared the home side's blushes by coming up with the
winner after 90 minutes.
Inverness Caledonian Thistle or Astra will be the opponents in the next
round for whoever comes out on top at the Ta' Qali National Stadium on
Thursday and left-back Cresswell is optimistic West Ham will march on.
He told the club's official website: "We're confident going over there, but
we know it's not going to be easy at the same time, especially travelling
over there in different surroundings.
"You'd imagine they'd have a different approach for the second leg,
obviously being 1-0 down. They are the home team, but we'll go there, play
the same game and try to get through to the next round."
It would be a major surprise if Birkirkara continue their European
adventure, but teenage forward Kurt Zammit took heart from their first-leg
display.
He said: "As we knew before the match, this was going to be a very hard
battle. We studied our opponents well and obeyed all the instructions of our
coach and doing so, we didn't let them penetrate easily.
"We did what few expected, we were so close for a historic result. Getting a
standing ovation from the 33,000 home supporters at full-time shows how much
we deserved a good result.
He added: "All the team was a bit disappointed after a brilliant display in
away match, and having the game under control, and then conceding in the
last minute.
"It was harsh, but everything can be won or lost, in the next match. If
tactically we play as we played away, we will do well for sure."
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Noble and squad will feel the heat
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Mark Noble has admitted it's good to be taking a lead to Malta tomorrow
evening (Thurs) after getting a win over Kirkirkara despite the squad being
"unfit." The midfielder told the offiial site: ""Last Thursday was only our
second game we've played in pre-season, so we're still unfit really and it
was good to get the win. I know it was a late goal from Tonks, but they made
it difficult for us. "They were enthusiastic, they ran about a lot, but we
got the win which was the most important thing and now we've got to go out
there and try to finish the job."
The Irons face not only a sprightly opposition but will be performing in
temperatures of over 30C on the 14 mile wide holiday island
He continued: "It will be a challenge with the heat. I don't think the game
will be as quick was it was the other night because of the heat, but we're
looking forward to it. "We've had to take the games seriously from day one
because of the Europa League. We've got six games in qualifying before the
season starts, and that's going to be tough but we're looking forward to
it."
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Payet and Sakho banned for Malta
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho remain banned for the second leg of the
Europa League qualifier in Malta this Thursday evening and have not traveled
with the team. Diafra Sakho is serving the second match of a three match ban
after his sending off in the first round. He was given a red card 14
minutes into the match for an off the ball incident against FC Lusitans in
the second leg away in Andorra.
Dimitri Payet is serving his second match of a two match ban he received at
Marseille after being sent off against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions
League in December 2013 after diving in the box for his second yellow. UEFA
regulations mean suspensions carry over with the player to his next UEFA
competitive match. Both are expected to be included in the squad which face
Charlton in a pre-match friendly on Saturday.
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Adrian hails warm Maltese welcome
WHUFC.com
Adrian was bowled over by the warm welcome as West Ham United arrived in a
sweltering Malta on Wednesday afternoon. The Hammers touched down at the
island's International Airport at just after midday, with temperatures in
the Mediterranean touching 35C (95F). Hundreds of supporters were on hand to
greet the players and staff came through Arrivals, and the goalkeeper,
manager Slaven Bilic and his squad were delighted to pose for photographs
and sign autographs. The No13, who was typically in high demand, told West
Ham TV he cannot wait to play against Birkirkara FC in Thursday's UEFA
Europa League second qualifying round second leg tie at the country's Ta'
Qali National Stadium. "It's exciting for us because for most of us it is
the first time we have played in Malta, so it is a new country for us and we
are excited about playing against Birkirkara here," he exclaimed. "We want
to get a good result and pass to the next round."
Hailing from Seville in the far south of Spain, Adrian is one of the few
among the West Ham squad to be used to such high temperatures, and he had
words of advice for his teammates on how to deal with the hot weather. The
Hammers will train at Ta' Qali this evening to acclimatise to the abnormal
conditions, but the goalkeeper said there are other steps that the players
can take to keep cool. "For me it's not a problem because I am adapted to
this hot climate but I would tell them to just drink a lot of water and to
take a cold shower before the game!" he advised. With just a one-goal lead
to protect going into Thursday's clash with the Maltese FA Trophy winners,
West Ham will need to keep their cool when they take to the pitch. "I have
confidence in my teammates but we need to be careful because Birkirkara are
playing at home this time and we need to keep a clean sheet and score an
early goal – that would be very important for us," Adrian confirmed. "They
have quality players and they have been playing in Europe for a long time,
so we need to be careful of them and to keep our mentality and strength in
our team. I am confident we will win and go through."
Finally, Adrian had words of thanks for the Claret and Blue Army who turned
out in their droves to welcome the Hammers to Malta – and will be out in
force again at Ta' Qali on matchday. "It's an amazing and important thing
for us," he smiled. "The Hammers are around the world and to see them here
in Malta is fantastic. We are looking forward to having Hammers from Malta,
England and other countries there to support us in the game."
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Reid ready for hot Malta test
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid says West Ham United will approach Thursday's UEFA Europa
League tie with Birkirkara FC like any other match. The Hammers will face
searing heat, a partisan 15,000-strong Maltese crowd and opponents
determined to overturn their 1-0 first-leg deficit on home turf at the Ta'
Qali National Stadium. Having captained both West Ham and New Zealand and
played in the Middle East, South Africa and China, Reid insists he and his
teammates will be fully prepared for the Stripes. "I think we are going to
have to manage the game in the heat and use our experience and it's just one
of those things you have to deal with," said the defender. "It's a factor
and we have to make sure we manage how it affects us and we'll do our best
to do so. "Getting off the plane it was like walking into a brick wall. It's
just one of those things. We knew it was going to be a hot place to come to
and we will feel how it is in our training session, so we will see how it is
for the game. "I have played competitive matches in heat before and it is a
factor, but we are professional you don't have to worry about it too much.
We'll prepare for it, hydrate as well as we can and, come game time, we will
be ready for the game."
Reid made his European debut for the Hammers in the first leg, having
previously played in continental competition as a youngster for Danish side
FC Midtjylland in 2007 and 2008. Having signed a new long-term contract
earlier this year, the 26-year-old is now focused on achieving great things
in a Claret and Blue shirt, starting with a run in the Europa League this
season. "Yes, playing in Europe was one of the things I wanted to do and I
felt I could achieve it with this club," he confirmed. "These first few
rounds are tough games against teams we are not really used to, but we want
to progress and reach the group stage, obviously. "I think we have shown by
our dedication and training that we aim to do that and I am sure, come
Thursday night, we will go out there and put in a professional performance."
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Miccoli - We've got our weapons too
WHUFC.com
Experienced Birkirkara frontman Fabrizio Miccoli insists he saw plenty in
the first leg at the Boleyn Ground to suggest the Maltese outfit have a
serious job on their hands to overturn the Hammers' one-goal lead. The
36-year-old Italian counts Juventus, Fiorentina and Palermo among his former
employers and is determined to use the nous acquired in some two decades in
the game's upper echelons to give his new employers a helping hand. While
Miccoli is naturally excited by the prospect of a high-profile tie at
Malta's Ta' Qali national stadium on Thursday, he concedes the second
qualifying round draw could have been a whole lot kinder. "It goes without
saying that we are fully aware of what we're up against, it was clear from
the first leg," he said. "But we also have our own weapons and we will try
to use them. As long as we give everything we can on the pitch, nobody can
ask any more of us. "I believe that Maltese football is on the up, not only
with Birkirkara, but also with other Maltese teams in Europe lately, there
seems to be an upward trend. We were both fortunate and unfortunate to come
up against West Ham. Fortunate in that it's a prestigious encounter, there
are also going to be 15, 16,000 people at the stadium. On the other hand, we
could have come up against a team on an equal footing to us and maybe had a
better chance of qualifying. In tomorrow's game we will try our best and see
what happens."
The former Italian international only joined Birkirkara in June, but already
feels part of the furniture and hopes to return the favour with West Ham in
town. He continued: "From day one I was considered one of them. They helped
me settle in and I feel really settled now. My aim is to try and help them
with my experience and do whatever it takes to help them grow in whatever
way I can."
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Tedesco - 'We are going to give it our best shot'
WHUFC.com
Birkirkara FC head coach Giovanni Tedesco says his players will 'give it
their best shot' to knock West Ham United out of the UEFA Europa League. The
Hammers arrive in Malta 1-0 up from their first leg of their second
qualifying round tie, having dominated proceedings at the Boleyn Ground, but
the circumstances and surroundings will be very different at the Ta' Qali
National Stadium. The Maltese FA Trophy winners be on home turf and cheered
on by more than 10,000 supporters, but they will also have the weather on
their side, with daytime temperatures on the Mediterranean island
approaching 35C (95F). While he knows his team face a very tough task to
oust Slaven Bilic's side from the competition, Tedesco says they are in
confident mood following their resilient first-leg showing in east London,
and a fine first qualifying round win over Armenian club Ulisses. "This is
an easy match to prepare for because we are playing against a very good team
and the motivation is high," said Tedesco, who was part of the Palermo squad
which knocked West Ham out of the UEFA Cup nine seasons ago. "We are going
to give it our best shot and the rest will take care of itself. "We know we
have to score a goal but it is not something we can just say and will happen
on the pitch. This is something completely different. "There has been a
growth in our team and I want these games to become something of the norm,
and not something that is looked as an extraordinary experience. "We know
that the team comes before everything else and we feel that, with our
performance at Upton Park, following on from our performance away in Armenia
we are on the right track to becoming a team that looks at these games as
something of the norm."
We know we have to score a goal but it is not something we can just say and
will happen on the pitch. This is something completely different More than
15,000 tickets have reportedly been sold for the tie, which was switched
from Birkirkara's own ground to the 17,800-capacity Ta' Qali National
Stadium. Tedesco says the support of Maltese fans, regardless of their usual
club commitments, will inspire his players to an even higher level of
performance. "Definitely the 15,000 people who come and support us will be a
great help, but that is not enough, because we know we are playing against a
very good team so other things come into play. "Definitely the supporters
can give us a big lift and hopefully we can use their support to help us
overcome our opponent on Thursday."
Aside from the huge level of support from the stands, Tedesco is also
banking on his star player Fabrizio Miccoli being fit for the second leg.
The head coach revealed that the former Italy international forward, now 36,
has been carrying an injury and may miss the game. "We do have a full squad,
but we do have a number of question marks over three or four players,
including [captain] Paul [Fenech, who was substituted in the first leg] and
also Fabrizio, who trained individually during the week. "We still have 24
hours until the match and will have our last training session after the
press conference and we will observe the situation in the hours ahead of the
match."
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Bilic: it's like a sauna out here!
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 22nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic likened the oppressive heat in Malta to a sauna this afternoon,
when speaking during his pre-match press conference this evening. Bilic, who
arrived with his squad for the second leg of their Europa League clash with
Birkirkara was surprised by the extreme heat, which even the locals have
been complaining about in recent days. However he believes his squad will be
capable of dealing with the adverse conditions as they attempt to secure
passage to the third qualifying round, and a meeting with either Inverness
CT or Romanian outfit Astra Giurgiu. "The heat is a problem," he admitted.
"When we came it was like a sauna, but we are experienced and should be good
enough to dictate the game. "The score [in the first leg] was not ideal; we
were hoping to score one more goal. We should have scored earlier, which we
deserved, but in the end we had a positive result - and it should be enough
if we score."
And even though they are behind in the tie, Bilic feels that his opponents
are unlikely to press from the start - preferring instead to remain compact
and defensively solid, as per last Thursday's tie at the Boleyn. "In the
first leg, they went on the pitch as a unit and that impressed me most, as
did the two centre-halves and the 'keeper," he said. "I hope they will
change their approach, but I don't think they will. They might press, but
it's down to us how we let them play."
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Maltese cross as West Ham insult local club
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 22nd July 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's arrival in Malta earlier today was a controversial one -
after a slur against FC Birkirkara's rivals Floriana was posted on the
club's official social media channels. Upon arriving in Malta earlier this
afternoon ahead of tomorrow night's Europa League clash, West Ham United
posted images of supporters greeting local fans vis their social media
channels. However the club unwittingly including a location tag that
included a vile comment directed at Birkirkara's local rivals - something
that led to a furious response from Floriana vice president Matt Paris.
"It's shameful that an English Premier League club engaged in this sort of
attitude," he said in response to the foul tweet. "West Ham United, shame on
you."
Whoops-a-daisy: the foul message (which basically translates to 'f*ck
Floriana') found its way on to Twitter and Facebook before being spotted
According to the Times of Malta, Floriana mayor Davinia Sammut Hili - a keen
supporter of her local team - also criticised West Ham, but acknowledged
that the club had moved to rectify the mistake as soon as it had been noted.
It is unclear how the offensive location tag came to be included in the
club's posts. Last season Birkirkara finished third in the Maltese Premiere
League, two places ahead of Floriana - who finished seven points behind in
fifth place.
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Birkirkara v West Ham preview: Hammers take slender lead to Malta
Last Updated: 22/07/15 5:37pm
SSN
West Ham take a slender lead to Malta on Thursday night for the second leg
of their Europa League second qualifying round tie against Birkirkara. James
Tomkins rescued the Hammers with a 90th-minute strike to give Slaven Bilic's
men a 1-0 win in the first leg at Upton Park last week. The Premier League
side were expected to brush the Maltese Cup winners aside, but West Ham will
now have to be on their guard to ensure they make it through to the third
and final qualifying round. West Ham could meet Scottish Premiership side
Inverness at the next stage after they were drawn together, but John Hughes'
men will have to overturn a 1-0 deficit to Astra Giurgiu to make it through.
After the Hammers' win last week, Bilic admitted he was relieved Tomkins
gave them a first-leg lead but did say he was pleased with his side's
display. "It is more relief because we scored at the end, but I think we
played well, especially the first half," he said. "We didn't play really
quick, but quick enough against this type of opposition. They are a decent
side, they are not, with all respect, Real Madrid, but they are not like the
team from Andorra or San Marino. They can make your job more difficult."
The Croatian later admitted it would be both an adventure and a challenge if
they progressed in the competition. "The Europa League is great for the
club, you could see with the spectators, they are enjoying it, against
people from Andorra and Malta - they all love to come for a European night,"
he said. "It is great for a team - it gains not only confidence, but they
are different types of games, so it is good for us and for me. "But on the
other hand, it drains you. "I did it a few times last season, when it was
great for Besiktas, but it was also very difficult to play on Thursday in
Liverpool, then on the Sunday you have an away game in Turkey."
Team news
Dimitri Payet impressed on his West Ham debut as he scored twice against
Southend at the weekend, but he is unavailable on Thursday due to
suspension.
Diafra Sakho is also banned from playing in their second-leg clash, but
Bilic is still expected to name a strong line-up in Malta.
Mauro Zarate and Modibo Maiga led the line for the Hammers in the first leg,
while Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan started in midfield, and all four could
feature again, with Adrian expected to be in goal once more.
Opta facts
West Ham have won three European games in a row - after failing to win any
of the previous four.
Birkirkara failed to register a single shot on target in the first leg.
English sides have won six of the seven meetings against Maltese clubs -
drawing the other - scoring 26 goals and conceding just one.
Betting
West Ham are 12/1 to be left to rue their disappointing first-leg showing
and be knocked out of the Europa League, with Birkirkara up against
substantially shorter odds for the return encounter. Sky Bet offered 50/1 on
the Maltese outfit winning at Upton Park but go 7/1 for the minnows to
triumph on home turf, while the Hammers are 1/3 for the win. Slaven Bilic's
men are considered 50/1 chances to win Europe's second-tier tournament, with
fellow Premier League outfits Tottenham, Liverpool (both 16/1) and
Southampton (25/1) all considered more realistic contenders.
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Kouyate joins Europa League squad in Malta
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Five days ago first team coach Julian Dicks cited fitness as the reason for
Cheik Kouyate being unavailable for the first leg of the Europa league match
against Birkirkara at the Boleyn ground.
Kouyate played sixty minutes in a pre-season friendly at Roots Hall last
Saturday as West Ham beat Southend United in 3-2.
Just six days later Kouyate must now be deemed fit enough to be included in
the squad that flew to Malta at lunchtime as he was pictured in his fetching
long flight socks stepping off the chartered jet in the bright sunshine.
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Daily WHUFC News - 23rd July 2015
Westley - We needed the challenge
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Academy Manager and Head of Coaching & Player Development
Terry Westley says Tuesday night's friendly at Colchester United provided
his youngsters with a useful learning experience. A youthful West Ham side
were defeated 1-0 by their Sky Bet League One hosts, who took the honours
thanks to a fine free kick from Academy graduate George Moncur. Westley was
happy with the application of his team and says they will benefit greatly
from those kind of experiences. "I felt the team coped well with the test,"
he said. "It was a great friendly for us. and one which our Under-21 players
need. "They need these types of challenges. We need to be playing against
league sides because that's where we need them to play. "We need them to
play at this level, go out on loan, get some league games under their belt
and then come back and be ready for our Premier League team. "One or two
have come out and shown they can handle that, one or two have realised you
have to move the ball a bit quicker and not get into physical contests with
them because they are stronger that you at your age, but all round it was a
really good night's work for us."
For Westley, this game was another step along the road of what he describes
as an ideal pre-season, given the Under-21s' involvement in the early stages
of the UEFA Europa League. "It's been the perfect pre-season for us," he
continued. "The cohesion with the first team, working with the senior
players and being involved in the Europa League first qualifying round was
good for our young players to get that recognition. "It was a chance for
them to show the manager what they can do and I'm sure if we had won really
well against Birkirkara some of our players would have gone there and the
first team would have taken this fixtaure, but either way it has been a good
week for us and a good game to play in. "It was 1-0 against a League One
side and as the game grew and as we grew into it, we had more opportunity.
We started to get hold of the ball and I think possession-wise it would have
been close in the second half.
"In the first half we were caught in the headlights a little bit. We were
too slow, didn't move it quick enough, lost physical contests and they got
on top of us. In the end giving away the free kick resulted in the goal.
"They've got a lot of league games under their belts where our players
haven't, and again Reece Oxford stands out. At 16, being able to cope with
what he played against and then come out on top shows he's a special talent.
"Josh Pask beside him, although he got leggy, stayed with the game. Amos
Nasha in midfield, Josh Cullen in midfield, Page and Westley at the back,
they stayed in the match. We didn't capitulate, and in the end might have
got something out of it. "The support was excellent. The support in the
Europa League was excellent with 35,000 and then you come here with another
2,000 of your own supporters appreciating the effort the young players put
in, it's terrific for everyone."
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Hammers snatch 'The Jewel'
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have unearthed a gem after completing the loan signing of
Argentine playmaker Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini. The 22-year-old has joined
the Hammers on a season-long deal, with an option to make it permanent, from
UAE Arabian Gulf League club Al-Jazira after passing his medical at Spire
Roding Hospital, West Ham United's official private hospital. Lanzini, who
came through the same River Plate youth system that produced the likes of
Alfredo Di Stefano, Ariel Ortega and former Hammer Javier Mascherano, is an
exciting attacking midfielder who can both create and score goals. Having
sealed his summer switch to the Boleyn Ground, Lanzini spoke of a massive
step in his still young career. "This is very emotional because it is one
of the best teams I have ever signed for," he told West Ham TV. "It is a
very important step for my career and for my future. "I am looking forward
to what is a new era for me. I'm very happy and I look forward to meeting my
new teammates. "This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in
the future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world,
so I am looking forward to getting started. "I am someone who always gives
100 per cent. I'm an attacking player, I can change the game's tempo and I
hope to give my maximum for the fans to appreciate me."
Born in the Ituzaingó Partido of the Greater Buenos Aires metropolitan area
to Italian ancestry, Lanzini joined River Plate at the age of nine in 2002.
At 17, he made his professional debut in a 1-0 home win over Tigre on 8
August 2010, and went on to make 22 league appearances for River in is debut
season. Summer 2011 saw Lanzini loaned to Brazilian giants Fluminense, where
he impressed by scoring twice in 22 appearances as a teenager, helping the
club to win the Serie A title. With that experience under his belt, the
player returned to River, where he was handed the coveted No10 shirt,
helping the club to reach the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals and scoring a
career-high eight goals in 26 league appearances in 2012/13. A packed
2013/14 saw Lanzini play 41 times in all competitions for River, helping the
Buenos Aires club to reach the last-eight of the Copa Sudamericana and
attracting the attention of clubs all over the world. It was Al-Jazira who
moved for the exciting talent, securing Lanzini's path to Abu Dhabi, where
he became the youngest foreign player to appear in the UAE Arabian Gulf
League at the age of 21. Again wearing the No10 shirt, Lanzini teamed up
with Montenego and ex-Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic and Burkina Faso and
former Hamburg midfielder Jonathan Pitroipa to score eight goals in 24
league appearances to help Al-Jazira to finish as league runners-up last
season. At international level, the creative South American has been capped
four times by Argentina at U20 level and will hope to make the step up to
the senior squad if he can impress in Claret and Blue. Lanzini becomes West
Ham's seventh summer signing following the arrivals of Dimitri Payet, Angelo
Ogbonna, Pedro Obiang, Carl Jenkinson, Stephen Hendrie and Darren Randolph.
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Manuel Lanzini - Ten Fast Facts
WHUFC.com
Ten fast facts you might not know about West Ham United's new attacking
midfielder Manuel Lanzini.
Lanzini was born in Ituzaingo, a district of Buenos Aires, the city in which
he made his way in the game with Argentine giants River Plate.
He came through the same River youth system as the likes of former Hammer
Javier Mascherano, Ariel Ortega and Alfredo Di Stefano.
Manuel was only 17 years-old when he made his professional debut for the
club, playing 45 minutes in a 1-0 win over Tigre in August 2010.
He was loaned to Brazilian side Fluminense for the 2011/12 campaign, and
scored his debut professional goal in a 2-1 victory over Sao Paolo in
September of that year.
Having helped Flu take the Carioca championship in 2012 and returned to
River to take the famous No10 shirt with that useful experience under his
belt.
He impressed on his first season back in Argentina, scoring an impressive
eight goals in 26 league appearances and helping the Club reach the
quarter-finals of the Copa Libertadores – the
South American equivalent of the Champions League.
He added to his medal haul when River won the Argentine Primera Division
Torneo Final in 2014, with clubs around the world by now alerted to his
talents.
Lanzini is the youngest player to feature in the UAE Arabian Gulf League,
having played at the age of 21 for Al Jazira.
He is the seventh player to link up with the Hammers this summer, following
on from Stephen Hendrie, Darren Randolph, Pedro Obiang, Dimitri Payet,
Angelo Ogbonna and Carl Jenkinson.
Manuel is nicknamed the Jewel, and Hammers fans will certainly be hoping he
will shine during his time with the Hammers.
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Page highlights positives for young Hammers
WHUFC.com
Reflecting on a narrow 1-0 defeat to League One side Colchester United,
Lewis Page reasoned that his side had a lot to be proud of. A youthful West
Ham XI took to the Weston Homes stadium and were undone early on by a superb
George Moncur free-kick. The former Hammer made the Irons pay as he
dispatched his effort from 25-yards into the top-right corner. While the
hosts were value for their win, the young Hammers put in a solid display and
had several chances of their own. Reece Oxford went close from two corners
while Jordan Brown forced a good save from a stinging shot from the edge of
the box. As Page said: "I thought we started off a bit slow, as soon as we
got into the game we held our own. They are a League One side so it was
difficult, they were more developed than us. But when we played, I think we
held our own. "It was a great free-kick from Moncs, but that was the only
real difference. We always knew he had the ability to do that; we shouldn't
have given a foul away in that area. Other than that, we held them up pretty
well. "I know Moncs fairly well. He is a few years older than me but we
trained together quite often when he was at the Academy. He's a top lad and
it's good to see him do well."
This pre-season has proved to be a whirlwind month for the left-back, whose
confidence both on and off the pitch has notably risen. The 19-year-old
made his first team senior debut in the Hammers 3-0 win over FC Lusitans in
the Europa League first round qualifier at Upton Park as well as the return
leg in Andorra. "I've been really happy with my pre-season, playing in
front of a full house at Upton Park was incredible and something I think
about everyday. I then played away in Andorra and a few first team
friendlies so it's been good, hopefully I can push on from here and see what
happens really. "I definitely feel like I'm improving a lot recently. You
learn a lot from being around the more senior players, it helps you to grow
up a bit. Being around the first team you see what it's really like and see
whether you cope. "As a defender I look up to Tonks and Joey the most, they
were the senior defenders in the first round of the Europa League so I had
the opportunity to learn a lot from them."
The Hammers busy pre-season schedule continues with a second leg in Malta on
Thursday evening before travelling to south London to play Charlton
Athletic. Page continued to praise his fellow teammates, who like him, came
through the ranks at the West Ham United Academy. "The younger lads did
well. We played well collectively because we could have been out of the game
but we stayed strong. As I said they're a League One side so you expect them
to be strong. "We got great support as always from the fans, and that
always helps. I think a lot of them knew it was going to be a young squad
out there too. For them to still come along was great. "The new manager
seems really good. He's passionate, likes to play at a quick tempo and play
football the right way, I'm really enjoying it."
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Bilic - We've found a gem in Lanzini
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic believes new loan signing Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini can play a
big part in the final third for West Ham United this season.
The Hammers boss insists the young Argentine has the creativity to make his
mark on the Barclays Premier League, not least with the versatility to play
anywhere behind the striker. And having tried and failed to sign the
playmaker as Besiktas manager two years ago, Bilic has now got his man.
"He's a good player and we are happy that he joined us," he told West Ham
TV. "At just 20 years of age they gave him the No10 shirt at River Plate,
which is a massive club, of course. "I watched him two years ago and I
wanted to take him to Besiktas. But then it was very difficult. We were
close but now the chance came that we could get him and of course he's going
to help us a lot. He's going to add even more creativity in the crucial
parts of the pitch. "I am confident and I'm hopeful that he can adapt. We're
going to see. He's not very strong but he rides challenges, he doesn't go
down. So I hope he could be bingo for us. I am really hopeful and I think I
have a feeling that he's going to help us a lot."
Asked whether playmaker was an apt term for West Ham's seventh summer
signing, Bilic felt he was more in the mould of Hammers new boy Dimitri
Payet, than their deeper lying equivalents. "Now in football you have deep
playmakers like [Andrea] Pirlo, or [Luka] Modric, and then playmakers
between the lines, [David] Silva and Payet, for example. He's more that guy,
he can play on the left, he can play all positions behind the striker."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Inverness CT: John Hughes eyes Hammers in Europa League
BBC.co.uk
John Hughes has urged his Inverness CT players to produce a "heroic" Europa
League display and set up a clash against West Ham. Inverness travel to
Romania trailing Astra Giurgiu 1-0 from the first leg of their qualifier.
"I'm intrigued to see how we do," said Hughes ahead of flying out for
Thursday's encounter. "We all know what the reward is: [a tie against] West
Ham and that would be absolutely fantastic." West Ham lead Malta's
Birkirkara 1-0 from their first leg at Upton Park. "I'd love to see the
Inverness supporters strutting their stuff down in London," added Hughes.
"But it's dangerous to look too far in front of us. Hughes would love his
Inverness side to face West Ham in the Europa League "It adds a little bit
of spice to it; hopefully we can take care of business." The Inverness CT
boss believes they can overcome the Romanians and atone for a frustrating
first leg defeat. "We acquitted ourselves very well in the first game and
should've taken something from it," he said. "I think they're vulnerable and
just got beat 5-1 a couple of days ago. "But we have to be very cautious and
can't go gung-ho and before we know it we've conceded and are chasing the
game after that. "We're going to be right in it and will have to carry a
bit of luck; I expect it go right to the wire and down to the last 10
minutes. "No matter how we go about the tie, someone's going to have to be a
hero and come up with the goods. I'm confident we can do that."
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First Interview: Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham have finally confirmed the loan signing of Argentine playmaker who
they call Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini.The 22-year-old has joined the Hammers
on a season-long deal, with an option to make it permanent, from UAE Arabian
Gulf League club Al-Jazira after passing his medical at Spire Roding
Hospital private hospital yesterday.
Lanzini told the club's official TV channel."This is very emotional because
it is one of the best teams I have ever signed for, It is a very important
step for my career and for my future.signs I am looking forward to what is a
new era for me. I'm very happy and I look forward to meeting my new
teammates. This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in the
future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world, so
I am looking forward to getting started. I am someone who always gives 100
per cent. I'm an attacking player, I can change the game's tempo and I hope
to give my maximum for the fans to appreciate me."Lanzini becomes West Ham's
eighth signing of the summer after Darren Randolph, Pedro Obiang, Stephen
Hendrie, Dimitri Payet, Martin Samuelsen, Angelo Ogbonna and Carl Jenkinson
also joined the Hammers.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold: Retractable seating to be used in Rugby
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Retractable seating has largely been installed at both sides of the rebuild
Olympic Stadium and will be put to good use in the Rugby World Cup which
starts in September. David Gold confirmed on twitter by saying "The
retractable seating will come out over the running track and should be in
place for the Rugby World Cup games. dg"
His comments follow LLDC CEO David Goldstone who revealed last week that the
retractable seating will first be used next month during the Barbarians
rugby match against Samoa on Saturday 29th August. It is thought only the
side retractable seating will be used in rugby mode as the rugby pitch is
longer than a football pitch.
The Guardian published a photo of the retractable seating within the Olympic
Stadium which can be seen here with enormous wheels to move the structure.
David Gold also re-entered the debate about the colour of the seating at the
Olympic Stadium which remains black and white for the summer events
including the Rugby World club. Last week's stadium newsletter from the
club said "Black and white seating that viewers will see in the stands
during the rugby matches will be transformed after November with a new West
Ham-inspired design incorporating our Club colours."
Gold added on twitter "West Ham Fans will be pleased with the finished seats
at our new stadium. dg" carefully answering one question of 'Will ALL the
seats be black and white?' for which he replied "No. dg"
My understanding is the LLDC will introduce some Claret and Blue seats in
November to replace some of the Black seats to create West Ham inspired
patterns within the Olympic Stadium but I believe it will cost prohibitive
to replace all the black seats in the rebuilt Olympic Stadium particularly
in the upper tier.
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Bookies unconvinced by LVG/Hernandez stance
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham remain strong favourites to sign Javier Hernandez as their new
front man before the transfer window closes despite Manchester United's 'not
for sale' notice on the player.
It's not the price of 100/30 which is as significant as the number of clubs
being quoted as being in the race for the Mexican's services. Spurs are
priced at 7/2 and the list includes the likes of Villa, Everton, Sevilla,
Inter Milan, Liverpool, Southampton, Atletico Madrid , Real Madrid and
-going from the sublime to the ridiculous, even Orlando City! Apart from
ourselves and the north Londoners the remainder are priced at anything frm
10/1 to 33/1. That's a bunch of clubs and demonstrates pretty clearly that
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaul's stated position that the striker is
not for sale is not being taken the least bit seriously by the bookies or
most other people. A Hammers source said: "We are monitoring the position.
We don't believe this is over yet – it's a long time until the window
closes!"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ogbonna factor hits Miralles talks
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are pressing ahead with a new £7.5 million bid for Everton's Kevin
Miralles although The Toffees are unlikely to budge from their £10 million
valuation. The Irons are particularly keen on the 27 year old because he can
play wide and through the middle which could help them solve their central
striker problem whilst waiting on developments over Javier Hernandez.
Miralles scored 34 goal in 52 games through the middle for Olympiakos
between 2010-12 and has since managed 21 from 88 playing wide at Everton.
The Toffees though refuse to make it easy for the Hammers as they are still
smarting from us grabbing Angelo Ogbonna despite them making a better offer.
A source told ClaretandHugh: "The Irons want Kevin and have upped their
offer. They will keep trying but Everton still have that Ogbonna
disappointment in their minds and these won't be easy negotiations
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Slav gets his man second time around
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Slaven Bilic has got his man the second time around in Manuel Lanzini. The
Hammers boss was keen to take him to Besiktas two years ago but said: "Then
it it was very difficult. We were close but now the chance came that we
could get him and of course he's going to help us a lot. He's going to add
even more creativity in the crucial parts of the pitch. The boss told West
Ham TV: "He's a good player and we are happy that he joined us. At just 20
years of age they gave him the No10 shirt at River Plate, which is a massive
club, of course.
"I am confident and I'm hopeful that he can adapt. We're going to see. He's
not very strong but he rides challenges, he doesn't go down. "So I hope he
could be bingo for us. I am really hopeful and I think I have a feeling that
he's going to help us a lot."
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Hammers looking hard at another midfielder
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Esteban Cambiasso could be the next player into West Ham. The Telegraph –
usually quite reliable on things Hammers – reports tonight that the player
has turned down a Leicester City contract and as a free agent appeals to the
Irons. The Telegraph claims we considered signing the former Real Madrid and
Inter Milan star last summer and that he could arrive rather than Alex Song
whose could keep him out of action for four months.. Slaven Bilic may now
well be seeing Cambiasso as a realistic alternative because although he
turns 35 next month, former Argentina international was superb for Leicester
last season and played a major part in their incredible survival in the
Premier League.
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David Gold embroiled in Carroll twitter row
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham chairman David Gold has been forced to defend crocked Hammers
striker Andy Carroll on twitter this evening. Engaging with Hammers fans the
chairman told his followers "Ideally we need another striker, of course we
do have Sakho, Valencia, Carroll and Zarate. dg"
Immediately one West Ham fan called Tony asked Gold "How can you say Carroll
is reliable?"
Gold replied "I never said he was reliable but he is a valuable member of
our strike force and when fit is one of the best"
Another Irons fan Lee waded in the row asking "How is Carroll valuable? He
is never fit"
Gold came back saying "He's not 'never' fit, he has scored some important
goals for us. He could come back from injury and surprise us all."
One last Hammers fan called Shae said "Mate, he's gonna come back then get
injured after 3 games"
Gold got the last word in stating "It's an opinion not a fact. dg"
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Hammers storm in Maltese teacup
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
You really do have to feel sorry for the Hammers after a storm in a Maltese
teacup escalated into national headlines across the island this evening.
The Times of Malta are reporting that West Ham got off on the wrong foot
with local Maltese football fans after the Irons unknowingly offending
Maltese football team Floriana FC on Facebook.
The club uploaded a photo album of their players' arrival at Malta
International Airport. However,it had a a location tag seemingly created by
a group of football fan pranksters eager to have a dig at Birkirkara rivals
Floriana FC and using an untranslated F word.
The expletive in Maltese against Floriana was quickly removed when the
club realised its mistake, but not before it was shared across social
media. ' Screen shots of it are still doing the rounds.
The Maltese Times say most Maltese online commentators saw the funny side of
the status, while pointing out what it really meant, but Floriana vice
president Matt Paris was fuming. "It's shameful," he wrote, "that an English
Premier League club engaged in this sort of attitude. West Ham United shame
on you."
To add more embarrassment the team are actually staying in the town of
Floriana at the luxury Grand Hotel Excelsior.
One Floriana fan saw the funny side posting "I think you owe our brothers
Floriana a player on loan or something We would accept a sponsor. Good Luck'
Like we say – a storm in a Maltese teacup and as for Mr Paris – as we say
dahn "ere: 'Get a life geezer.'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: West Ham would prefer another loan deal for Alex Song
HITC
Billy Hawkins
West Ham would prefer to sign Alex Song on loan again, rather than on a
permanent deal. According to the Evening Standard, West Ham are still
pursuing a deal to sign Alex Song from Barcelona this summer, but they want
him on another loan deal. The Cameroonian international spent last season on
loan at the Boleyn Ground, impressing in a midfield who showed a technical
excellence not associated with Sam Allardyce. His form faltered towards the
end of the campaign though, and it was clear that the Hammers suffered, as
results turned negative and a slide down the table occurred. This resulted
in Allardyce's dismissal, but there have never been any doubts about a
potential Song return to East London, with new head coach Slaven Bilic
wanting to bring him back to the Boleyn Ground for much of the summer.
However, a deal has yet to be struck with Barcelona, and the ongoing sage
looks like it is not closer to being finalised.
An injury suffered by Song has put the move in jeopardy, with an ongoing
ankle issue potentially keeping the midfielder out of action for up to four
months. This injury has caused the Hammers to reevaluate their stance on
signing Song, and now would prefer to take him on another loan deal, rather
than a permanent contract. They want to sign him until the end of the
2015/16 season, so they can guarantee Song's long-term fitness is not
affected, and the 27-year-old returned to Barcelona last week to try and
push through a move. There are no indications as to whether the Catalan
giants are willing to accept the new proposal from West Ham, but they are
keen to get Song off their books this summer.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carl Jenkinson finally returns to West Ham training and could feature
against former club Charlton
London 24
09:47 22 July 2015 Brad Pinard
Carl Jenkinson has joined his West Ham team-mates in pre-season training
after his move on loan from Arsenal was confirmed last week. After a busy
summer with the England under-21 squad, Jenkinson was given an extended
holiday by Arsenal and was allowed to miss their trip to Singapore. West Ham
were always desperate to get the former Charlton man back to Upton Park and
despite having to fork out more in wages after Jenkinson signed a new
contract with Arsenal, they got their man. Coach Julian Dicks confirmed on
Twitter than Jenkinson was back in training and he could be set for his
first run out against former club Charlton on Saturday.
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West Ham fans react to Manchester City forward Devante Cole arriving on
trial
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham have taken forward Devante Cole on trial from Manchester City. West
Ham United's pre-season preparations continued on Tuesday evening with a 1-0
defeat away to Colchester United.
Terry Westley took charge of a youthful Hammers side at the Weston Homes
Community Stadium, which contained the likes of Raphael Spiegel, Reece
Oxford and Jordan Brown, but he couldn't guide West Ham to a victory as
former Hammers youth star George Moncur grabbed the winning goal. The most
interesting name on the teamsheet was that of forward Devante Cole, who is
seemingly on trial from Manchester City. The 20-year-old striker, son of
former Manchester United legend Andy Cole, has come up through the ranks at
City but has yet to make his first team debut for the club. After successful
loan spells at Barnsley and MK Dons last season, Cole looks set to leave
City in search of regular first team football on a permanent basis - and
West Ham appear to be ready to take a gamble on the forward having featured
against Colchester. West Ham fans were taken aback by the news that Cole was
starting against Colchester, and reacted on Twitter throughout the night as
they became aware of a potential new signing. Cole is raw but has great
pace, and some fans were keen to see West Ham take a punt on his potential -
whilst others were more bemused by his arrival. Here are some of the
reactions from West Ham fans on Twitter after Cole was revealed as a
trialist against Colchester...
West Ham Exclusive @WHUExclusive
Devante Cole is pure pace I would love him
10:07 PM - 21 Jul 2015
Joe Johnson?? @joe200953
Devante Cole is quality! We need to sign him up
Dan Springate @DCSpringate
Devante Cole is playing for our Development Squad?? Very decent, young
player. Imagine if he turned out like his dad!!
Joe @HulbertJoe
Devante Cole starting for West Ham- not a big fan of him myself but Bilic
must see something. Follow @TheIronsCircle for updates on him.
7:41 PM - 21 Jul 2015
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Mavila talks about Bilic's extra efforts with West Ham youngsters
HITC
Lewis Doe
West Ham United youngster Nathan Mavila has revealed the extra efforts
Slaven Bilic has been making with the club's younger players. West Ham
United youngster Nathan Mavila told the club's official website about the
extra measures Slaven Bilic has been making as manager of the club. Mavila
has been a feature of the first team squad through pre-season and he's been
impressed by the personal touch Bilic has brought to his role as boss, which
the youngster has stressed has been key in making everyone feel comfortable.
I think the new manager has been excellent so far. He's knows everyone's
names already, the youngsters, everyone. I think that is very important," he
told whufc.com. "He always takes the time to talk to everyone individually
about how to improve their game. A few of his staff came to watch the game
yesterday, so it's very good."
A clever touch by Bilic
Bilic deserves credit for a very clever touch which makes his life a little
bit easier heading into a very important year for the club. Some managers
will take the next generation of youngsters in a squad for granted, but
Bilic is trying to show the club's youngsters they are valued. It's a clever
tactic because of the importance for players in terms of feeling
comfortable. Anyone in any job will be more productive in a situation where
they are free from pressure of any kind. It's also a clever tactic by Bilic
because he's developing a relationship and a loyalty between himself and the
players. If the players see their manager going that extra mile to get to
know players and take care of them, they will put in the extra mile in that
next game or a situation where the legs are starting to go due to fatigue.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham sign dazzling Argentine midfield star Manuel Lanzini dubbed 'The
Jewel'
HITC
Damien Lucas
Things just got even more exciting for West Ham United fans after a loan
deal for Argentine wonderkid Manuel Lanzini was confirmed by his parent
club. The 22-year-old was another in a long line of skilful Argentinians who
were likened to Lionel Messi when he broke through at River Plate as a
17-year-old. The Hammers have been linked with a move for the tricky ace,
who has a very similar style to Manchester United's Angel Di Maria, for over
a month. Somewhat bizarrely Lanzini, who holds an Italian passport, played
in the footballing backwater that is the UAE Arabian Gulf League for Al
Jazira last season. And he will have to be ready for a huge jump in quality
after the move was officially confirmed by his parent club on social
networking website Twitter on Tuesday night. A spokesman said: "Al Jazira
agrees to transfer the player (to the) English Premier League and (to) play
for West Ham for a loan year."
West Ham are yet to confirm the signing their end but it is a deal aimed at
unearthing a potential star with the club said to have the option to make it
a permanent move should he impress in east London. Lanzini is an Argentina
Under 20 international who has a famously exciting obligatory YouTube clip
of his silky skills, although his finishing leaves a lot to be desired.
Come in number seven
The Hammers have been one of the busiest Premier League clubs in the summer
transfer market spending nearly £25 million so far. Co-owners David Sullivan
and David Gold have been true to their word by investing significant funds
to strengthen new boss Slaven Bilic's squad. So far the East Londoners have
brought in goalkeeper Darren Randolph on a free transfer, midfielders Pedro
Obiang and Dimitri Payet for a combined total of around £15 million,
defender Angelo Ogbonna for around £8 million and Carl Jenkinson in on loan
again from Arsenal for a fee believed to be £2 million. The Irons had
already signed left back Stephen Hendrie from Scottish side Hamilton back in
January and he officially became a West Ham player on July 1st. But there
has been the promise of more to come with Sullivan's son Jack confirming on
Twitter ahead of Jenkinson's capture that the club will be trying to sign
'another three or four players'. Lanzini is the seventh signing with the
club now likely to turn their attentions to securing a striker.
South American gamble is low risk
The Hammers have always dipped their toe in the South American market under
Sullivan and Gold. From relative successes in Mexican Guillermo Franco and
Brazilian Ilan to players who failed to win a place in the side like
Brazilians Wellington Paulista and more recently Nene last season. But the
Upton Park faithful will be hoping Lanzini is more Tevez than Wellington and
will be safe in the knowledge that if he can't cut it in the English top
flight he will return to Al Jazira at the end of the season. If it goes
well they can seal the deal and everyone is a winner.
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United Academy Manager and Head of Coaching & Player Development
Terry Westley says Tuesday night's friendly at Colchester United provided
his youngsters with a useful learning experience. A youthful West Ham side
were defeated 1-0 by their Sky Bet League One hosts, who took the honours
thanks to a fine free kick from Academy graduate George Moncur. Westley was
happy with the application of his team and says they will benefit greatly
from those kind of experiences. "I felt the team coped well with the test,"
he said. "It was a great friendly for us. and one which our Under-21 players
need. "They need these types of challenges. We need to be playing against
league sides because that's where we need them to play. "We need them to
play at this level, go out on loan, get some league games under their belt
and then come back and be ready for our Premier League team. "One or two
have come out and shown they can handle that, one or two have realised you
have to move the ball a bit quicker and not get into physical contests with
them because they are stronger that you at your age, but all round it was a
really good night's work for us."
For Westley, this game was another step along the road of what he describes
as an ideal pre-season, given the Under-21s' involvement in the early stages
of the UEFA Europa League. "It's been the perfect pre-season for us," he
continued. "The cohesion with the first team, working with the senior
players and being involved in the Europa League first qualifying round was
good for our young players to get that recognition. "It was a chance for
them to show the manager what they can do and I'm sure if we had won really
well against Birkirkara some of our players would have gone there and the
first team would have taken this fixtaure, but either way it has been a good
week for us and a good game to play in. "It was 1-0 against a League One
side and as the game grew and as we grew into it, we had more opportunity.
We started to get hold of the ball and I think possession-wise it would have
been close in the second half.
"In the first half we were caught in the headlights a little bit. We were
too slow, didn't move it quick enough, lost physical contests and they got
on top of us. In the end giving away the free kick resulted in the goal.
"They've got a lot of league games under their belts where our players
haven't, and again Reece Oxford stands out. At 16, being able to cope with
what he played against and then come out on top shows he's a special talent.
"Josh Pask beside him, although he got leggy, stayed with the game. Amos
Nasha in midfield, Josh Cullen in midfield, Page and Westley at the back,
they stayed in the match. We didn't capitulate, and in the end might have
got something out of it. "The support was excellent. The support in the
Europa League was excellent with 35,000 and then you come here with another
2,000 of your own supporters appreciating the effort the young players put
in, it's terrific for everyone."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers snatch 'The Jewel'
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have unearthed a gem after completing the loan signing of
Argentine playmaker Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini. The 22-year-old has joined
the Hammers on a season-long deal, with an option to make it permanent, from
UAE Arabian Gulf League club Al-Jazira after passing his medical at Spire
Roding Hospital, West Ham United's official private hospital. Lanzini, who
came through the same River Plate youth system that produced the likes of
Alfredo Di Stefano, Ariel Ortega and former Hammer Javier Mascherano, is an
exciting attacking midfielder who can both create and score goals. Having
sealed his summer switch to the Boleyn Ground, Lanzini spoke of a massive
step in his still young career. "This is very emotional because it is one
of the best teams I have ever signed for," he told West Ham TV. "It is a
very important step for my career and for my future. "I am looking forward
to what is a new era for me. I'm very happy and I look forward to meeting my
new teammates. "This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in
the future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world,
so I am looking forward to getting started. "I am someone who always gives
100 per cent. I'm an attacking player, I can change the game's tempo and I
hope to give my maximum for the fans to appreciate me."
Born in the Ituzaingó Partido of the Greater Buenos Aires metropolitan area
to Italian ancestry, Lanzini joined River Plate at the age of nine in 2002.
At 17, he made his professional debut in a 1-0 home win over Tigre on 8
August 2010, and went on to make 22 league appearances for River in is debut
season. Summer 2011 saw Lanzini loaned to Brazilian giants Fluminense, where
he impressed by scoring twice in 22 appearances as a teenager, helping the
club to win the Serie A title. With that experience under his belt, the
player returned to River, where he was handed the coveted No10 shirt,
helping the club to reach the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals and scoring a
career-high eight goals in 26 league appearances in 2012/13. A packed
2013/14 saw Lanzini play 41 times in all competitions for River, helping the
Buenos Aires club to reach the last-eight of the Copa Sudamericana and
attracting the attention of clubs all over the world. It was Al-Jazira who
moved for the exciting talent, securing Lanzini's path to Abu Dhabi, where
he became the youngest foreign player to appear in the UAE Arabian Gulf
League at the age of 21. Again wearing the No10 shirt, Lanzini teamed up
with Montenego and ex-Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic and Burkina Faso and
former Hamburg midfielder Jonathan Pitroipa to score eight goals in 24
league appearances to help Al-Jazira to finish as league runners-up last
season. At international level, the creative South American has been capped
four times by Argentina at U20 level and will hope to make the step up to
the senior squad if he can impress in Claret and Blue. Lanzini becomes West
Ham's seventh summer signing following the arrivals of Dimitri Payet, Angelo
Ogbonna, Pedro Obiang, Carl Jenkinson, Stephen Hendrie and Darren Randolph.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini - Ten Fast Facts
WHUFC.com
Ten fast facts you might not know about West Ham United's new attacking
midfielder Manuel Lanzini.
Lanzini was born in Ituzaingo, a district of Buenos Aires, the city in which
he made his way in the game with Argentine giants River Plate.
He came through the same River youth system as the likes of former Hammer
Javier Mascherano, Ariel Ortega and Alfredo Di Stefano.
Manuel was only 17 years-old when he made his professional debut for the
club, playing 45 minutes in a 1-0 win over Tigre in August 2010.
He was loaned to Brazilian side Fluminense for the 2011/12 campaign, and
scored his debut professional goal in a 2-1 victory over Sao Paolo in
September of that year.
Having helped Flu take the Carioca championship in 2012 and returned to
River to take the famous No10 shirt with that useful experience under his
belt.
He impressed on his first season back in Argentina, scoring an impressive
eight goals in 26 league appearances and helping the Club reach the
quarter-finals of the Copa Libertadores – the
South American equivalent of the Champions League.
He added to his medal haul when River won the Argentine Primera Division
Torneo Final in 2014, with clubs around the world by now alerted to his
talents.
Lanzini is the youngest player to feature in the UAE Arabian Gulf League,
having played at the age of 21 for Al Jazira.
He is the seventh player to link up with the Hammers this summer, following
on from Stephen Hendrie, Darren Randolph, Pedro Obiang, Dimitri Payet,
Angelo Ogbonna and Carl Jenkinson.
Manuel is nicknamed the Jewel, and Hammers fans will certainly be hoping he
will shine during his time with the Hammers.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Page highlights positives for young Hammers
WHUFC.com
Reflecting on a narrow 1-0 defeat to League One side Colchester United,
Lewis Page reasoned that his side had a lot to be proud of. A youthful West
Ham XI took to the Weston Homes stadium and were undone early on by a superb
George Moncur free-kick. The former Hammer made the Irons pay as he
dispatched his effort from 25-yards into the top-right corner. While the
hosts were value for their win, the young Hammers put in a solid display and
had several chances of their own. Reece Oxford went close from two corners
while Jordan Brown forced a good save from a stinging shot from the edge of
the box. As Page said: "I thought we started off a bit slow, as soon as we
got into the game we held our own. They are a League One side so it was
difficult, they were more developed than us. But when we played, I think we
held our own. "It was a great free-kick from Moncs, but that was the only
real difference. We always knew he had the ability to do that; we shouldn't
have given a foul away in that area. Other than that, we held them up pretty
well. "I know Moncs fairly well. He is a few years older than me but we
trained together quite often when he was at the Academy. He's a top lad and
it's good to see him do well."
This pre-season has proved to be a whirlwind month for the left-back, whose
confidence both on and off the pitch has notably risen. The 19-year-old
made his first team senior debut in the Hammers 3-0 win over FC Lusitans in
the Europa League first round qualifier at Upton Park as well as the return
leg in Andorra. "I've been really happy with my pre-season, playing in
front of a full house at Upton Park was incredible and something I think
about everyday. I then played away in Andorra and a few first team
friendlies so it's been good, hopefully I can push on from here and see what
happens really. "I definitely feel like I'm improving a lot recently. You
learn a lot from being around the more senior players, it helps you to grow
up a bit. Being around the first team you see what it's really like and see
whether you cope. "As a defender I look up to Tonks and Joey the most, they
were the senior defenders in the first round of the Europa League so I had
the opportunity to learn a lot from them."
The Hammers busy pre-season schedule continues with a second leg in Malta on
Thursday evening before travelling to south London to play Charlton
Athletic. Page continued to praise his fellow teammates, who like him, came
through the ranks at the West Ham United Academy. "The younger lads did
well. We played well collectively because we could have been out of the game
but we stayed strong. As I said they're a League One side so you expect them
to be strong. "We got great support as always from the fans, and that
always helps. I think a lot of them knew it was going to be a young squad
out there too. For them to still come along was great. "The new manager
seems really good. He's passionate, likes to play at a quick tempo and play
football the right way, I'm really enjoying it."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic - We've found a gem in Lanzini
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic believes new loan signing Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini can play a
big part in the final third for West Ham United this season.
The Hammers boss insists the young Argentine has the creativity to make his
mark on the Barclays Premier League, not least with the versatility to play
anywhere behind the striker. And having tried and failed to sign the
playmaker as Besiktas manager two years ago, Bilic has now got his man.
"He's a good player and we are happy that he joined us," he told West Ham
TV. "At just 20 years of age they gave him the No10 shirt at River Plate,
which is a massive club, of course. "I watched him two years ago and I
wanted to take him to Besiktas. But then it was very difficult. We were
close but now the chance came that we could get him and of course he's going
to help us a lot. He's going to add even more creativity in the crucial
parts of the pitch. "I am confident and I'm hopeful that he can adapt. We're
going to see. He's not very strong but he rides challenges, he doesn't go
down. So I hope he could be bingo for us. I am really hopeful and I think I
have a feeling that he's going to help us a lot."
Asked whether playmaker was an apt term for West Ham's seventh summer
signing, Bilic felt he was more in the mould of Hammers new boy Dimitri
Payet, than their deeper lying equivalents. "Now in football you have deep
playmakers like [Andrea] Pirlo, or [Luka] Modric, and then playmakers
between the lines, [David] Silva and Payet, for example. He's more that guy,
he can play on the left, he can play all positions behind the striker."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Inverness CT: John Hughes eyes Hammers in Europa League
BBC.co.uk
John Hughes has urged his Inverness CT players to produce a "heroic" Europa
League display and set up a clash against West Ham. Inverness travel to
Romania trailing Astra Giurgiu 1-0 from the first leg of their qualifier.
"I'm intrigued to see how we do," said Hughes ahead of flying out for
Thursday's encounter. "We all know what the reward is: [a tie against] West
Ham and that would be absolutely fantastic." West Ham lead Malta's
Birkirkara 1-0 from their first leg at Upton Park. "I'd love to see the
Inverness supporters strutting their stuff down in London," added Hughes.
"But it's dangerous to look too far in front of us. Hughes would love his
Inverness side to face West Ham in the Europa League "It adds a little bit
of spice to it; hopefully we can take care of business." The Inverness CT
boss believes they can overcome the Romanians and atone for a frustrating
first leg defeat. "We acquitted ourselves very well in the first game and
should've taken something from it," he said. "I think they're vulnerable and
just got beat 5-1 a couple of days ago. "But we have to be very cautious and
can't go gung-ho and before we know it we've conceded and are chasing the
game after that. "We're going to be right in it and will have to carry a
bit of luck; I expect it go right to the wire and down to the last 10
minutes. "No matter how we go about the tie, someone's going to have to be a
hero and come up with the goods. I'm confident we can do that."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First Interview: Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham have finally confirmed the loan signing of Argentine playmaker who
they call Manuel 'The Jewel' Lanzini.The 22-year-old has joined the Hammers
on a season-long deal, with an option to make it permanent, from UAE Arabian
Gulf League club Al-Jazira after passing his medical at Spire Roding
Hospital private hospital yesterday.
Lanzini told the club's official TV channel."This is very emotional because
it is one of the best teams I have ever signed for, It is a very important
step for my career and for my future.signs I am looking forward to what is a
new era for me. I'm very happy and I look forward to meeting my new
teammates. This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in the
future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world, so
I am looking forward to getting started. I am someone who always gives 100
per cent. I'm an attacking player, I can change the game's tempo and I hope
to give my maximum for the fans to appreciate me."Lanzini becomes West Ham's
eighth signing of the summer after Darren Randolph, Pedro Obiang, Stephen
Hendrie, Dimitri Payet, Martin Samuelsen, Angelo Ogbonna and Carl Jenkinson
also joined the Hammers.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold: Retractable seating to be used in Rugby
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Retractable seating has largely been installed at both sides of the rebuild
Olympic Stadium and will be put to good use in the Rugby World Cup which
starts in September. David Gold confirmed on twitter by saying "The
retractable seating will come out over the running track and should be in
place for the Rugby World Cup games. dg"
His comments follow LLDC CEO David Goldstone who revealed last week that the
retractable seating will first be used next month during the Barbarians
rugby match against Samoa on Saturday 29th August. It is thought only the
side retractable seating will be used in rugby mode as the rugby pitch is
longer than a football pitch.
The Guardian published a photo of the retractable seating within the Olympic
Stadium which can be seen here with enormous wheels to move the structure.
David Gold also re-entered the debate about the colour of the seating at the
Olympic Stadium which remains black and white for the summer events
including the Rugby World club. Last week's stadium newsletter from the
club said "Black and white seating that viewers will see in the stands
during the rugby matches will be transformed after November with a new West
Ham-inspired design incorporating our Club colours."
Gold added on twitter "West Ham Fans will be pleased with the finished seats
at our new stadium. dg" carefully answering one question of 'Will ALL the
seats be black and white?' for which he replied "No. dg"
My understanding is the LLDC will introduce some Claret and Blue seats in
November to replace some of the Black seats to create West Ham inspired
patterns within the Olympic Stadium but I believe it will cost prohibitive
to replace all the black seats in the rebuilt Olympic Stadium particularly
in the upper tier.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bookies unconvinced by LVG/Hernandez stance
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham remain strong favourites to sign Javier Hernandez as their new
front man before the transfer window closes despite Manchester United's 'not
for sale' notice on the player.
It's not the price of 100/30 which is as significant as the number of clubs
being quoted as being in the race for the Mexican's services. Spurs are
priced at 7/2 and the list includes the likes of Villa, Everton, Sevilla,
Inter Milan, Liverpool, Southampton, Atletico Madrid , Real Madrid and
-going from the sublime to the ridiculous, even Orlando City! Apart from
ourselves and the north Londoners the remainder are priced at anything frm
10/1 to 33/1. That's a bunch of clubs and demonstrates pretty clearly that
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaul's stated position that the striker is
not for sale is not being taken the least bit seriously by the bookies or
most other people. A Hammers source said: "We are monitoring the position.
We don't believe this is over yet – it's a long time until the window
closes!"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ogbonna factor hits Miralles talks
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are pressing ahead with a new £7.5 million bid for Everton's Kevin
Miralles although The Toffees are unlikely to budge from their £10 million
valuation. The Irons are particularly keen on the 27 year old because he can
play wide and through the middle which could help them solve their central
striker problem whilst waiting on developments over Javier Hernandez.
Miralles scored 34 goal in 52 games through the middle for Olympiakos
between 2010-12 and has since managed 21 from 88 playing wide at Everton.
The Toffees though refuse to make it easy for the Hammers as they are still
smarting from us grabbing Angelo Ogbonna despite them making a better offer.
A source told ClaretandHugh: "The Irons want Kevin and have upped their
offer. They will keep trying but Everton still have that Ogbonna
disappointment in their minds and these won't be easy negotiations
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slav gets his man second time around
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Slaven Bilic has got his man the second time around in Manuel Lanzini. The
Hammers boss was keen to take him to Besiktas two years ago but said: "Then
it it was very difficult. We were close but now the chance came that we
could get him and of course he's going to help us a lot. He's going to add
even more creativity in the crucial parts of the pitch. The boss told West
Ham TV: "He's a good player and we are happy that he joined us. At just 20
years of age they gave him the No10 shirt at River Plate, which is a massive
club, of course.
"I am confident and I'm hopeful that he can adapt. We're going to see. He's
not very strong but he rides challenges, he doesn't go down. "So I hope he
could be bingo for us. I am really hopeful and I think I have a feeling that
he's going to help us a lot."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers looking hard at another midfielder
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Esteban Cambiasso could be the next player into West Ham. The Telegraph –
usually quite reliable on things Hammers – reports tonight that the player
has turned down a Leicester City contract and as a free agent appeals to the
Irons. The Telegraph claims we considered signing the former Real Madrid and
Inter Milan star last summer and that he could arrive rather than Alex Song
whose could keep him out of action for four months.. Slaven Bilic may now
well be seeing Cambiasso as a realistic alternative because although he
turns 35 next month, former Argentina international was superb for Leicester
last season and played a major part in their incredible survival in the
Premier League.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Gold embroiled in Carroll twitter row
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham chairman David Gold has been forced to defend crocked Hammers
striker Andy Carroll on twitter this evening. Engaging with Hammers fans the
chairman told his followers "Ideally we need another striker, of course we
do have Sakho, Valencia, Carroll and Zarate. dg"
Immediately one West Ham fan called Tony asked Gold "How can you say Carroll
is reliable?"
Gold replied "I never said he was reliable but he is a valuable member of
our strike force and when fit is one of the best"
Another Irons fan Lee waded in the row asking "How is Carroll valuable? He
is never fit"
Gold came back saying "He's not 'never' fit, he has scored some important
goals for us. He could come back from injury and surprise us all."
One last Hammers fan called Shae said "Mate, he's gonna come back then get
injured after 3 games"
Gold got the last word in stating "It's an opinion not a fact. dg"
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers storm in Maltese teacup
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
You really do have to feel sorry for the Hammers after a storm in a Maltese
teacup escalated into national headlines across the island this evening.
The Times of Malta are reporting that West Ham got off on the wrong foot
with local Maltese football fans after the Irons unknowingly offending
Maltese football team Floriana FC on Facebook.
The club uploaded a photo album of their players' arrival at Malta
International Airport. However,it had a a location tag seemingly created by
a group of football fan pranksters eager to have a dig at Birkirkara rivals
Floriana FC and using an untranslated F word.
The expletive in Maltese against Floriana was quickly removed when the
club realised its mistake, but not before it was shared across social
media. ' Screen shots of it are still doing the rounds.
The Maltese Times say most Maltese online commentators saw the funny side of
the status, while pointing out what it really meant, but Floriana vice
president Matt Paris was fuming. "It's shameful," he wrote, "that an English
Premier League club engaged in this sort of attitude. West Ham United shame
on you."
To add more embarrassment the team are actually staying in the town of
Floriana at the luxury Grand Hotel Excelsior.
One Floriana fan saw the funny side posting "I think you owe our brothers
Floriana a player on loan or something We would accept a sponsor. Good Luck'
Like we say – a storm in a Maltese teacup and as for Mr Paris – as we say
dahn "ere: 'Get a life geezer.'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: West Ham would prefer another loan deal for Alex Song
HITC
Billy Hawkins
West Ham would prefer to sign Alex Song on loan again, rather than on a
permanent deal. According to the Evening Standard, West Ham are still
pursuing a deal to sign Alex Song from Barcelona this summer, but they want
him on another loan deal. The Cameroonian international spent last season on
loan at the Boleyn Ground, impressing in a midfield who showed a technical
excellence not associated with Sam Allardyce. His form faltered towards the
end of the campaign though, and it was clear that the Hammers suffered, as
results turned negative and a slide down the table occurred. This resulted
in Allardyce's dismissal, but there have never been any doubts about a
potential Song return to East London, with new head coach Slaven Bilic
wanting to bring him back to the Boleyn Ground for much of the summer.
However, a deal has yet to be struck with Barcelona, and the ongoing sage
looks like it is not closer to being finalised.
An injury suffered by Song has put the move in jeopardy, with an ongoing
ankle issue potentially keeping the midfielder out of action for up to four
months. This injury has caused the Hammers to reevaluate their stance on
signing Song, and now would prefer to take him on another loan deal, rather
than a permanent contract. They want to sign him until the end of the
2015/16 season, so they can guarantee Song's long-term fitness is not
affected, and the 27-year-old returned to Barcelona last week to try and
push through a move. There are no indications as to whether the Catalan
giants are willing to accept the new proposal from West Ham, but they are
keen to get Song off their books this summer.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carl Jenkinson finally returns to West Ham training and could feature
against former club Charlton
London 24
09:47 22 July 2015 Brad Pinard
Carl Jenkinson has joined his West Ham team-mates in pre-season training
after his move on loan from Arsenal was confirmed last week. After a busy
summer with the England under-21 squad, Jenkinson was given an extended
holiday by Arsenal and was allowed to miss their trip to Singapore. West Ham
were always desperate to get the former Charlton man back to Upton Park and
despite having to fork out more in wages after Jenkinson signed a new
contract with Arsenal, they got their man. Coach Julian Dicks confirmed on
Twitter than Jenkinson was back in training and he could be set for his
first run out against former club Charlton on Saturday.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fans react to Manchester City forward Devante Cole arriving on
trial
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham have taken forward Devante Cole on trial from Manchester City. West
Ham United's pre-season preparations continued on Tuesday evening with a 1-0
defeat away to Colchester United.
Terry Westley took charge of a youthful Hammers side at the Weston Homes
Community Stadium, which contained the likes of Raphael Spiegel, Reece
Oxford and Jordan Brown, but he couldn't guide West Ham to a victory as
former Hammers youth star George Moncur grabbed the winning goal. The most
interesting name on the teamsheet was that of forward Devante Cole, who is
seemingly on trial from Manchester City. The 20-year-old striker, son of
former Manchester United legend Andy Cole, has come up through the ranks at
City but has yet to make his first team debut for the club. After successful
loan spells at Barnsley and MK Dons last season, Cole looks set to leave
City in search of regular first team football on a permanent basis - and
West Ham appear to be ready to take a gamble on the forward having featured
against Colchester. West Ham fans were taken aback by the news that Cole was
starting against Colchester, and reacted on Twitter throughout the night as
they became aware of a potential new signing. Cole is raw but has great
pace, and some fans were keen to see West Ham take a punt on his potential -
whilst others were more bemused by his arrival. Here are some of the
reactions from West Ham fans on Twitter after Cole was revealed as a
trialist against Colchester...
West Ham Exclusive @WHUExclusive
Devante Cole is pure pace I would love him
10:07 PM - 21 Jul 2015
Joe Johnson?? @joe200953
Devante Cole is quality! We need to sign him up
Dan Springate @DCSpringate
Devante Cole is playing for our Development Squad?? Very decent, young
player. Imagine if he turned out like his dad!!
Joe @HulbertJoe
Devante Cole starting for West Ham- not a big fan of him myself but Bilic
must see something. Follow @TheIronsCircle for updates on him.
7:41 PM - 21 Jul 2015
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mavila talks about Bilic's extra efforts with West Ham youngsters
HITC
Lewis Doe
West Ham United youngster Nathan Mavila has revealed the extra efforts
Slaven Bilic has been making with the club's younger players. West Ham
United youngster Nathan Mavila told the club's official website about the
extra measures Slaven Bilic has been making as manager of the club. Mavila
has been a feature of the first team squad through pre-season and he's been
impressed by the personal touch Bilic has brought to his role as boss, which
the youngster has stressed has been key in making everyone feel comfortable.
I think the new manager has been excellent so far. He's knows everyone's
names already, the youngsters, everyone. I think that is very important," he
told whufc.com. "He always takes the time to talk to everyone individually
about how to improve their game. A few of his staff came to watch the game
yesterday, so it's very good."
A clever touch by Bilic
Bilic deserves credit for a very clever touch which makes his life a little
bit easier heading into a very important year for the club. Some managers
will take the next generation of youngsters in a squad for granted, but
Bilic is trying to show the club's youngsters they are valued. It's a clever
tactic because of the importance for players in terms of feeling
comfortable. Anyone in any job will be more productive in a situation where
they are free from pressure of any kind. It's also a clever tactic by Bilic
because he's developing a relationship and a loyalty between himself and the
players. If the players see their manager going that extra mile to get to
know players and take care of them, they will put in the extra mile in that
next game or a situation where the legs are starting to go due to fatigue.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham sign dazzling Argentine midfield star Manuel Lanzini dubbed 'The
Jewel'
HITC
Damien Lucas
Things just got even more exciting for West Ham United fans after a loan
deal for Argentine wonderkid Manuel Lanzini was confirmed by his parent
club. The 22-year-old was another in a long line of skilful Argentinians who
were likened to Lionel Messi when he broke through at River Plate as a
17-year-old. The Hammers have been linked with a move for the tricky ace,
who has a very similar style to Manchester United's Angel Di Maria, for over
a month. Somewhat bizarrely Lanzini, who holds an Italian passport, played
in the footballing backwater that is the UAE Arabian Gulf League for Al
Jazira last season. And he will have to be ready for a huge jump in quality
after the move was officially confirmed by his parent club on social
networking website Twitter on Tuesday night. A spokesman said: "Al Jazira
agrees to transfer the player (to the) English Premier League and (to) play
for West Ham for a loan year."
West Ham are yet to confirm the signing their end but it is a deal aimed at
unearthing a potential star with the club said to have the option to make it
a permanent move should he impress in east London. Lanzini is an Argentina
Under 20 international who has a famously exciting obligatory YouTube clip
of his silky skills, although his finishing leaves a lot to be desired.
Come in number seven
The Hammers have been one of the busiest Premier League clubs in the summer
transfer market spending nearly £25 million so far. Co-owners David Sullivan
and David Gold have been true to their word by investing significant funds
to strengthen new boss Slaven Bilic's squad. So far the East Londoners have
brought in goalkeeper Darren Randolph on a free transfer, midfielders Pedro
Obiang and Dimitri Payet for a combined total of around £15 million,
defender Angelo Ogbonna for around £8 million and Carl Jenkinson in on loan
again from Arsenal for a fee believed to be £2 million. The Irons had
already signed left back Stephen Hendrie from Scottish side Hamilton back in
January and he officially became a West Ham player on July 1st. But there
has been the promise of more to come with Sullivan's son Jack confirming on
Twitter ahead of Jenkinson's capture that the club will be trying to sign
'another three or four players'. Lanzini is the seventh signing with the
club now likely to turn their attentions to securing a striker.
South American gamble is low risk
The Hammers have always dipped their toe in the South American market under
Sullivan and Gold. From relative successes in Mexican Guillermo Franco and
Brazilian Ilan to players who failed to win a place in the side like
Brazilians Wellington Paulista and more recently Nene last season. But the
Upton Park faithful will be hoping Lanzini is more Tevez than Wellington and
will be safe in the knowledge that if he can't cut it in the English top
flight he will return to Al Jazira at the end of the season. If it goes
well they can seal the deal and everyone is a winner.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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