Daily WHUFC News - 20th August 2015

The Big Interview
WHUFc.com

Mark Noble says he and his West Ham United teammates are adapting quickly to new manager Slaven Bilic's fresh tactical approach, and gives his positive opinions on fellow midfielders Dimitri Payet and Reece Oxford…

Mark, let's start with last Saturday's 2-1 Barclays Premier League defeat by Leicester City. What did you make of that game?

MN: "That's football really, we left it too late after they scored two in the first half which was always going to make it difficult. At the start we had a couple of chances, if either had gone in it would've been a completely different game. We got caught twice and it was an upward struggle from then on."

You appear to be playing a more possession-based style and with a new 4-2-3-1 formation. How has that been?

MN: "Of course it'll take a while to get used to the new system. First game of the season, away at Arsenal we had nothing to lose, we could go for it and then run on adrenalin. Saturday was a good lesson for the season, and we need to make sure it doesn't happen again. As a seasoned Premier League player you know these things can happen, we had some new boys out their today but even still, we know if we'd been at our best we would have won."

A win at Arsenal and a home defeat by Leicester – same old West Ham…

MN: "We understand we need to be more consistent. We went to Arsenal not really expecting anything but then we came home to face Leicester, people expected us to roll them over, which isn't the case in the Premier League. Don't get me wrong in the second half I thought we played really well; we got a goal back through Dimitri Payet and probably could have got another one or two. "There were a lot of positives to take from the game; apart from the goals we looked pretty solid. We got punished twice and that can happen in this league."

How have you found working under Slaven Bilic six weeks into his reign?

MN: "We're getting to know Slaven more and more. With the pre-season we had, the Europa League and a lot of friendlies, the team wasn't together for a long time, probably longer then the manager would've wanted to. But it's only the second game of the season, apart from the 20 minute spell I thought we played well and there are plenty of positives to take."

Slaven admitted he was not happy at half-time at Arsenal when you were winning, so what did he say after the defeat by Leicester?

MN: "The manager didn't say too much after the game, we'll have a chat about it in the week and then look ahead to the Bournemouth game."

What sort of manager is Slaven Bilic and how does he compare to others you have worked with?

MN: "Slaven gets his points across well, he's not the loudest but that's not his way, he doesn't need to be. He lets you know when he's happy and when he isn't. All good managers have that edge about him, Sam had it and so does Slaven. You know he's in charge; it's as simple as that. What he says goes. He's managed big sides with big reputations, but that comes with pressure and responsibility."

On the player front, Dimitri Payet looks like a real gem...

MN: "I think we've been crying out for a player like Dimitri Payet for a long time. He can score and create goals, he's a top quality player and we need to keep him fit."

Finally, what words of advice have you for Reece Oxford, who was replaced at half-time after enjoying such an outstanding debut at Arsenal the previous weekend?

MN: "It was always going to be tough for Reece, he's only sixteen years of age and I think he was feeling his hamstring a bit. He had a terrific game last weekend and then all the press hype. I think in the last few weeks he's gone from a boy to a man, that's what I said to him in the dressing room, he's got a great temperament and I'm sure he'll cope with it. He'll be a top player for sure."

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The First and Last - Carl Jenkinson
WHUFC.com

As West Ham United get their final season at the Boleyn Ground underway, we've asked our players for some memorable lasts from their careers and lives, as well as some firsts. Now, Carl Jenkinson goes under the spotlight…

FIRSTS

What's the first radio station you turn on when you get in the car?

I don't listen to the radio any more to be honest, as I listen to Spotify. But if I do, it probably would have been Magic.

Tell us about your first international cap…

It was for England against Sweden in November 2012 and it was a great experience. It fulfilled a dream and was a wonderful day for myself and my family. We lost the game – it was when Zlatan scored all four of their goals – but it was a memorable day and the aim is to get back into that squad as soon as possible.

What was the first nickname you were given in football?

It was actually just Carlo, because there were two Carls when I first joined Charlton as a kid – a goalkeeper and myself – and for whatever reason I became Carlo. No-one calls me it anymore, but that's what it was when I was about eight. Now it's Jenks or Jenko.

Who would be the first player you'd call up for a pub quiz?

I'd go with somebody like Kev. He's experienced and knows a lot about everything.

What was the first car that you owned?

A Vauxhall Astra. I was 17 when I got that after I passed second time. It was heart-wrenching not to do it first time!

LASTS

Talk us through the last goal you scored?

The last goal I scored was for England U21s when we beat Portugal 3-1 in a friendly last season. The ball came across to me at the edge of the box and I just put it into the bottom corner. That was it really, nothing too spectacular but a goal nonetheless. I'd like to get two or three this year. I tend to get a few assists but I need to get on the scoresheet more often now.

Whose was the last shirt you collected after a game?

I haven't got a shirt for over a year now. I can't remember as I haven't swapped shirts for so long, but I do have Arjen Robben's shirt from when Arsenal beat Bayern Munich 2-0 in the Allianz Arena. That's probably my most cherished one.

What was the last meal you cooked at home?

We're genuinely talking years here. I think it was probably chicken fajitas. Not years, actually, I'm exaggerating but six months ago.

What was the last concert you went to?

Darius Rucker. I went to two of his gigs in the summer – in Salt Lake City and Albuquerque in New Mexico. That was incredible.

Where was the last place you went to on holiday?

That was the US. It was sort of a road trip where we went to a couple of gigs. It was really good fun.

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Poyet joins MK Dons on loan
WHUFC.com

West Ham United midfielder Diego Poyet has joined Championship side MK Dons on a season long loan. The twenty-year-old has made five first team appearances so far this season, all in the Hammers' Europa League campaign. The Uruguayan U20 international will be eligible to play for Karl Robinson's side in both the FA and League Cup competitions, while West Ham have the option of recalling Poyet in January 2016. Everyone at West Ham United would like to wish Diego all the best during his time at MK Dons.

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David Sullivan confirms Alex Song deal "in place"
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan has confirmed that the club have agreed a deal to sign Alex Song from Barcelona. Sullivan, speaking exclusively to Chris Scull and James Longman on this week's edition of the KUMB Podcast revealed that the Barcelona star is set to return to the Boeybn Ground - but only if he successfully navigates a medical. "We have a deal in place with Alex Song subject to a medical,"confirmed Sullivan. "If the medical is ok, we'll take him. "He's injured at the moment, which is something you've got to weight up. But we've got until September 1st to make a decision."

Sullivan, who appeared on the KUMB Podcast along with sons Dave and Jack also admitted that bringing the 27-year-old midfielder back to the Boleyn Ground would constitute somthing of a gamble given his medical history and current physical status. "He's a player we all admire and we just hope that the medical shows he's in a sufficient state for us to gamble," added Sullivan. "He couldn't physically pass a medical tomorrow, but if the medics say it's just a technical thing and he's only a couple of weeks away you'd take that gamble and hope they're right. "He' still got two years left on his Barcelona contract and you're signing a player on a three-year contract, so it's a huge commitment. He's a big earner, Alex. "On his pre-Chistmas form he was possibly the best player we've ever signed. But after Christmas he was just another player. Maybe there's reasons for that and maybe we'll see the true Alex Song and maybe he'll make a huge contribution this year. "We're quite short in that department actually, if we get an injury or two there's not much. So we'd like another senior pro in that position."

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Zarate sidelined as injury jinx strikes again
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United striker Mauro Zarate has added himself to the long list of casualties at the Boleyn Ground after sustaining a knock in training. The 28-year-old forward has started both Premier League fixtures for the Hammers so far this season but is set to miss at least two games after injuring himself at Chadwell Heath. Zarate now looks set to miss both the Bournemouth and Liverpool games, although he expects to return in time for the home clash with Newcastle at the Boleyn on Monday, 14 September. Slaven Bilic now has just Diafra Sakho available from his four-strong selection of strikers, with Zarate joining Andy Carroll and Enner Valencia in the treatment room. Modibo Maiga, whose Hammers career has enjoyed a brief renaissance as a result could step in to partner the Senegal international against the Cherries this weekend although youngster Elliott Lee is another possibility to fill the void.

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Poyet close to loan move
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th August 2015
By: Staff Writer

Diego Poyet is close to sealing a season-long loan move to MK Dons, according to reports this morning. The young midfielder starred in West Ham United's pre-season Europa League programme but is surplus to requirements at present, with the Hammers' campaign having ended at the hands of Astra Giurgiu last month. And that has alerted the Championship side, who already feature former Hammers Jordan Spence and Matthew Upson in their ranks.

* In other transfer news, former Hammer Ricardo Vaz Te is set to return to the UK after being made a free agent following six months with Akhisar Belediyespor in Turkey. Hull City, Brighton & Hove Albion and Sheffield Wednesday have all been linked with the 28-year-old forward, who is currently training with League One side Bury.

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West Ham agree deal to sign Alex Song from Barcelona
Last Updated: 19/08/15 5:57pm
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan says the club have agreed a deal to sign Alex Song from Barcelona, subject to a medical. Song played 31 times on loan at Upton Park last season and a deal is in place for him to return there on a permanent basis. The former Arsenal player is currently injured but the Hammers are keen to secure his services, if their medical staff confirm he is fit enough to sign. They could face competition from Everton though, with Roberto Martinez also understood to be interested in signing him, but Sullivan appears convinced Song will be playing for West Ham come the end of the transfer window. "We have a deal in place with Alex Song subject to a medical. If the medical is okay, we'll take him," he told the Knees Up Mother Brown (KUMB) podcast. "He's a player we all admire and we just hope that the medical shows he's in a sufficient state for us to gamble. "He couldn't physically pass a medical tomorrow, but if the medics say it's just a technical thing and he's only a couple of weeks away you'd take that gamble and hope they're right. "He's still got two years left on his Barcelona contract and you're signing a player on a three-year contract, so it's a huge commitment. He's a big earner, Alex. "He's injured at the moment, which is something you've got to weight up. But we've got until September 1 to make a decision."

Song was a key figure for the Hammers in the first part of last season but, like the rest of the team, his form faded as the campaign progressed, a factor acknowledged by Sullivan. "On his pre-Christmas form he was possibly the best player we've ever signed but after Christmas he was just another player," added Sullivan. "Maybe there's reasons for that and maybe we'll see the true Alex Song and maybe he'll make a huge contribution this year. "We'd like another senior pro in that position."

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West Ham 'set to increase interest' in QPR's Rob Green
Last Updated: 19/08/15 8:27am
SSN

West Ham are expected to increase their interest in re-signing Rob Green from QPR, according to Sky sources, after Adrian's red card appeal was turned down on Tuesday. The 28-year-old Adrian was sent off for a high boot to the chest of Jamie Vardy late on in Leicester's 2-1 Premier League victory at Upton Park on Saturday and will serve a three-match ban. West Ham have been on the lookout for another goalkeeper to rival Adrian for the No 1 shirt and Sky sources understand they will push to bring Green back to east London, where he spent six years with West Ham before moving to QPR in 2012. It is believed, however, that Rangers will not part with the England international until they have signed a replacement, and sources in West London understand Huddersfield keeper Alex Smithies has undergone the first part of a medical at Loftus Road. Sky sources have reported that a £1.2m fee has been agreed between the Championship clubs and he is expected to complete his move before the weekend. That could then pave the way for Green, 35, to return to the Hammers, for whom he played 241 times after joining from Norwich in 2006.

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ALEX SONG TO SIGN PERMANENT DEAL
By Iain Dale 19 Aug 2015 at 16:57
WTID

A deal to sign Alex Song is now in place, according to David Sullivan, who says that the only hurdle now is for the player to clear a medical. He's injured at the moment, but assuming the injury is not seen to be one that could reoccur in the long term, that should hopefully be a formality.

At this stage we don't know if a transfer fee is involved, all we know is it would be a permanent deal. If it comes off it's a big move for West Ham as they will be paying huge wages, I imagine. A midfield of Noble, Obiang, Song, Kouyate – or three from those four – is mouthwatering, and will be a match for most teams.

Let's hope we have confirmation in the next few days.

PS And in other news Diego Poyet has signed on a season long loan for MK Dons. I have to say, I'm a bit gutteed about that. It's good for him to get first team football, but I was really impressed by him in pre season and thought this could be his breakthrough year. To me he's an ideal standin player if any of the main midfielders are injured. I suspect this means Kevin Nolan will be staying.

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RUMOUR ROUND-UP:
By Reece Bateman 19 Aug 2015 at 13:50
WTID

Firstly, my apologies for not updating before now. I have been stuck in bed with a terrible migraine since Saturday afternoon….not sure what bought it on……..

The search for that elusive striker goes on and we are currently being linked with PSG's Ezequiel Lavezzi. The Brentwood Gazette? say he is being offered to a host of Premiership teams as PSG want him off the books after wrapping up the deal for Angel Di Maria. Although Lavezzi isn't technically the out and out striker we need there is no denying he would be an absolutely quality signing. In fact, he is the type of signing us Hammers fans love to adore. Frustrating and genius in equal measure. If a deal can be worked out it would be something of a coup for West Ham considering PSG paid around £44 million 4 years ago for his signature.

The same source? is suggesting that we may be about to miss out on Alex Song. They suggest that Everton have moved ahead of us in terms of getting Song to sign on the dotted line. I'm not so sure this article is accurate. Unless Everton have relocated to London I would find it odd that Song would sign for them considering his wife's well reported preference for staying in the capital.

London24 are reporting that Rob Green's wage demands have put an end to his return to Upton Park and that we are now chasing Manchester United reserve keeper Anders Lindegaard. Lindegaard did have a run of games for Man. Utd a few years ago but then injury forced him out and David De Gea really stepped up to the mark. A solid back up but for the money it would cost in wages / loan fees I would sooner Randolph was given a chance to show why we signed him.

Talksport? are reporting that Galatasary have told West Ham that target Burak Yilmaz is not for sale. There were reports over the weekend that West Ham were close to completing a deal but their chairman insists a bid has yet to be received and will not be welcomed.

A couple of potential departures from West Ham with The Mirror? suggesting James Collins could be headed to Norwich City after moving down the pecking order at West Ham. With Reid, Tomkins & Ogbonna all ahead of him, plus youngsters like Henry, Burke & Oxford waiting in the wings, Collins game time will be much reduced compared to last season. I would be sad to see 'Ginge' go, he has always put in 100% when playing for us, in both stints at the club. For most of last season he was our best defender so it would be a shame to lose him but he does deserve the chance to play regularly if that is what he wants. Would be nice if he does stick around to help some of those younger players develop. Finally, Citiblog? say that Diego Poyet is close to signing for MK Dons on loan. Poyet has always impressed me when he has played so a year on loan should do his development the world of good, especially at a club like MK Dons who are always happy to play youngsters in the first team. Hopefully the experience of regular Championship football will help him progress like it did for Tomkins & Reid when we were last relegated!

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Olympic Stadium LED wrap plan revealed
Posted by Hammers Newshound on August 19, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

Details of the new LED wrap to surround the Olympic Stadium have been unveiled. As part of getting the Stadium ready for its re-opening when West Ham move in in 2016, owners E20 Stadium LLP are progressing with plans to install an LED Wrap onto the exterior of the Stadium.
In a statement today E20 Stadium LLP reveals: "The wrap would stretch around the north, east and south sides of the Stadium and would be capable of displaying moving, colour content. The LEDs would be housed in a structure attached to back of the existing Stadium bowl. Hours of usage will be limited so as to be sensitive to neighbouring uses and ecology. The west side of the Stadium, facing the Fish Island Conservation Area, will not have any LEDs.

The wrap is intended to fulfil the following objectives:
Enhance the Stadium aesthetics and provide a creative, feature lighting installation;
Provide flexibility to reflect the look and feel of events taking place within the multi-use Stadium;
Provide a positive community asset – promote the wider Park, whilst ensuring content is sensitive to neighbours and neighbouring uses;
Provide the opportunity for Stadium naming rights partner activation.

E20 Stadium LLP expects to seek planning permission shortly. If this is granted, E20 Stadium LLP could begin construction in early 2016. A full content and usage strategy for the wrap would also be prepared to a similar timetable." Speculation is that the proposed LED wrap will be a product called Media Mesh supplied by GKD

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EXCLUSIVE: 'Boys of 86′ at Boleyn for Toon clash
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 19, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

The boys of '86 will make an emotional appearance at the Boleyn on 14 September in the televised Premier League match against Newcastle.
The 1985-86 campaign saw manager John Lyall lead the club to their highest ever league finish, coming a close third behind Liverpool and Everton. That particular Hammers team won 26 of their 42 games and finished with 84 points, two behind the Toffees and four behind the Reds, who claimed a famous double. Lyall's incredible team went on to became known as 'The Boys of 86.' TCotteeClaretandHugh has learned that among the legends the fans can expect to welcome are Frankie McAvennie, Tony Cottee, Phil Parkes, Tony Gale, Alan Devonshire
and Alvin Martin.

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Sullivan confirms CandH Song revelations
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 19, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

David Sullivan has confirmed what ClaretandHugh has been reporting for several weeks – that Alex Song will rejoin the club on a permanent deal. Whilst various media outlets have been claiming the likes of Tom Huddlestone have been set to join the club we explained here on Sunday the Hull midfielder was not seen as suitable for that reason We said: "The club is known to be keen to sign Alex Song regardless of his present injury problems before the end of August it's hard to see how this one might happen."
Barton was wanted on a short term deal as cover for that situation and it's hard to see why Huddlestone would want a short term arrangement. Now the co chairman – speaking on this week's KUMB Podcast revealed that the Barcelona star is set to return to the Boleyn Ground – but only if he successfully navigates a medical. He says: "We have a deal in place with Alex Song subject to a medical. If the medical is ok, we'll take him. As early as July 30 CandH had revealed via its own sources: "He (Song) has had an operation on his ankle and should be fit by October so we don't want to be waiting until January."
The club would like to sign him on an initial year to look at his fitness with the offer of a longer term deal if he proves himself back to full form. Slaven Bilic added: "He's a little bit injured. He did really well last year and I would like him to stay with us."

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Yilmaz in. Austin in. Proof journos make things up!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 18, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

There are non stories and then there are NON STORIES! And the absurd fiction surrounding Galatasaray striker Burak Yilmaz simply boggled my mind. ClaretandHugh was told days ago that the Hammers held no more than a five per cent interest in the player. Yet we had quotes from Yilmaz's agent saying talks would startwith the Hammers this week after earlier reports claimed we'd offered £8 million. The price was then reported as being closer to £15 million before yesterday, when the figure crashed to just £6.4 million! Bamboozled? You should be! And tonight comes yet a new twist to this thoroughly boring tale. Galatasary's general secretary, Fatih Isbecer, claims the star striker is very unlikely to be sold even if an offer was to be made.
He said: "We have not received an official bid for him and do not want to sell him." This is seen by those in the profession as the escape route when a tale which had no legs in the first place stalls. Obviously Isbecer, like many of the journalists following this particular pantomime, hasn't been listening to West Ham manager, Slaven Bilic, who made it clear days ago he wasn't interested. Now why would I bother to be writing about this? Simply because this is how fans get led up and down the garden path and end up wanting to blame someone – be it the owners or manager. The same situation has developed over Charlie Austin, who has never at any time been on our radar. The only people who hold responsibility for this nonsense are the guys and gals writing it: so treat the 'news' for what it's worth…which ain't a lot!

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EXCLUSIVE: concerns over Olympic Stadium seating
Posted by Sean Whetstone on August 19, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

New concerns have emerged this morning about seating plans for the Olympic Stadium. New images of the ongoing reconfiguration of the lower seating bowl in the former Olympic Stadium ahead of the Barbarian and Samoa rugby international on 29 August have raised more eyebrows and bring into question claims by the stadium owners – E20 LLP – that they are really committed to installing retractable seating. Much of the stadium's lower seating is currently in 'sports pitch mode' and seemingly utilises temporary seats that are sited on scaffolding. Football stadia typically use automated retractable seating – which are considerably more comfortable for football fans and can be moved at a flick of a button. It would appear changing between seating modes will be a complicated, work intensive and costly exercise for the Stadium operators Vinci and E20 LLP. Whether this is a temporary arrangement for the 2015 Rugby World Cup, or the final solution for football mode, remains unclear at this stage. One things that is certain is the rebuilt Stadium is likely to stay in 'sports pitch mode' for up 10 months of the year only changing back to athletics mode for summer athletics in June and July. So getting the best seating available will be a priority for a significant number of Hammers fans.

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Report: Irons drop striker interest
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 19, 2015 in News
C AND H

West Ham have reportedly pulled out of a deal to bring in Emmanuel Adebayor to the club. According to The Telegraph although a deal was "close" it has now transpired that the club "did not want to proceed with as they would have to picked up his £110,000-a-week wages in full.. The added issue which has led to the decision that Andy Carroll may be back from injury sooner than initially expected whilst the Tottenham's man's personal requirements would have put him ahead of Carroll. The Hammers have had the player on a list of a dozen targets but have cooled dramatically given a wage-sharing loan deal is not available and Spurs want rid of the player permanently. The player has been stripped of a squad number at White Hart Lane and it now seems the same thing has happened to his chance of an Upton Park move although deals can of course always be revived.

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Fingers crossed, Adebayor deal is dead in the water
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 19, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

West Ham are understood to have rejected a deal which would have seen the much travelled Emmanuel Adebayor arrive at the club. I say thank goodness for that: good old common sense has prevailed! Reports in today's Daily Telegraph claim Spurs chairman, Daniel Levy, was ready to let us take him on a free transfer – but top brass at the Boleyn saw his £110,000 a week wages as 'inhibitive'! Not 'arf! Back in January, Levy was not prepared to let him join on a wage-sharing loan deal. Now, apparently, Adebayor can come because he's giving him a free transfer. Thanks Levy, but nothing's changed anyway in terms of our finances. We still don't have deep pockets! Adebayor may, or may not, be ready to take a wage cut given that he is now 31 – not the 28 he was when joining the North Londoners. He has had his share of issues down the years and his goal-scoring record is probably best described as 'average'. It's a tough call getting a decent striker, and it's well known we still have our hopes stacked on Javier Hernandez. But with Andy Carroll on his way back, I'm pleased the Hammers have pulled away from a deal that would have gone down like a lead balloon with the Hammers faithful. Of course, it could raise its head again. But let's pray not. If Spurs are so desperate to get him gone they have stripped him of a squad number, then why on earth do we want to give him house room anyway? And if he was that keen to get involved again, why did he turn down Aston Villa where Tim Sherwood loves him? No. Each and every way you look at it, dropping our interest in Adebayor has to be a good thing. After all, there are plenty of fish out there – and most of them don't come anywhere near the price of the Togo hitman.

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EXCLUSIVE: no end to Irons' goalkeeping dilemma
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on August 19, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H

West Ham are no closer to solving the goalkeeping dilemma created by the sending-off of Adrian. The Hammers are continuing to study their options, but at the moment a move for Rob Green looks highly unlikely – even though Adrian is now out for the next three matches (following yesterday's unsuccessful appeal to the Football Association) and the club's 'in-house' options are very limited. ClaretandHugh understands Rangers' hopes of signing Huddersfield 'keeper, Alex Smithies, may have hit a snag at the medical stage. There's clearly a sense of unease and nervousness inside West Ham, as Darren Randolph faces a three game spell between the posts as the search for a new stopper with a proven pedigree continues. A club insider told ClaretandHugh: "We are looking. Green was never that high on the list given QPR's situation and other factors. "Darren made an uncertain start in the early games, but he was excellent at Birmingham City and their fans were very unhappy when he left, and they considered him to be one of their best players. "The result of the Adrian appeal was bad news. We can't afford to be without our top goalkeeper for three games. But we will have to get on with it – we can't cry over spilt milk."

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West Ham should sign Austin and Song and continue to develop Reece Burke this season
HITC
Vincent Ralph

Discussing three things West Ham United should do for the good of the club this summer. West Ham United have impressed with their summer spending to date, but that does not mean manager Slaven Bilic can put his feet up and relax with two weeks of the transfer window remaining. The Hammers still have work to do and here we take a look at three decisions Bilic should make in the weeks ahead for the good of the club: West Ham United need a new striker this summer and Queens Park Rangers front-man Charlie Austin is the best option by a country-mile. The forward knows how to score in the Premier League and while he will not come cheap he is worth the outlay given that he is 26 and could arguably be hitting the peak of his career.

Take a risk on Song

An injury to Alex Song near the end of his loan spell at Upton Park last season put paid to a permanent deal (as reported by the Brentwood Gazzette), but for now the Cameroon international remains at Barcelona and the Hammers would be wise to bring him back before it is too late. West Ham need strength in depth and Song proved last season that he is perfect for them, even if his form did tail off in the second half of the campaign.

Continue to show faith in Burke

Reece Oxford is currently the man (or should that be boy) of the moment at West Ham having shone on the opening weekend against Arsenal, but Bilic would be wise not to undo the good work started last season with 18-year-old Reece Burke. The centre-back proved he can cut it in the top flight and although Angelo Ogbonna has since arrived there should be plenty of chances for Burke to impress. He has not made it back onto the bench in the league despite featuring in recent Europa League games, but with sensible development he could blossom further this season and ultimately go on to become a star.

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Mauro Zarate delivers injury update on Twitter, provides emotional reaction
HITC
Tim Poole

The West Ham forward is 'very sad' that he'll miss his side's next two games. An emotional and frustrated Mauro Zarate took to Twitter on Wednesday afternoon to declare that he is 'very sad' to be injured and that he will not be available to play in West Ham United's next two matches. The Argentine will now focus on a 'fast recovery' but his reaction - as well as overuse of smiley faces - suggest this setback comes at a bad time for the 28-year-old as he looked to break into Slaven Bilic's side for good. Zarate started his Premier League season brilliantly, scoring at the Emirates Stadium as West Ham beat Arsenal 2-0. But the forward is now out injured - at a time when the Hammers are rather short up front anyway. West Ham face Bournemouth in their next Premier League clash and a win would be timely for Bilic's side. A 2-1 loss at home to Leicester City last weekend counteracted the elation of the Arsenal victory, creating only frustration and disappointment. The east London side's pursuit of a new striker, meanwhile, doesn't appear to be progressing in any way just yet.

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Ricardo Vaz Te is training with Bury, reveals manager David Flitcroft
Bury Times
Craig Nelson, sports writer / 33 minutes ago / Bury FC

BURY boss David Flitcroft left the door open for a possible move for Ricardo Vaz Te after admitting the former Bolton Wanderers, Barnsley and West Ham striker was training with the club.
The 28-year-old forward scored 12 goals in 24 appearances at Oakwell under the guidance of Flitcroft in the 2011/12 Championship season. The most prolific period of his career followed a stop-start seven-year apprenticeship at Bolton under Sam Allardyce, which was followed by a brief spell at Hibernian. Vaz Te's six-month stint at Barnsley convinced Allardyce to give him a shot in the Premier League with the Hammers and he spent three years at Upton Park, scoring 19 times in 61 matches. But the Portuguese front man is without a club after moving to Turkish side Akhisar B on a short-term contract in January. And Flitcroft said he was only too happy to assist when Vaz Te called asking for help with his fitness. "Ricardo Vaz Te had a very successful spell with us at Barnsley, very successful, obviously he got his move to West Ham through it," he said on Tuesday night, after the striker was spotted in the directors' box at Gigg Lane. "Guy Procter, our strength and conditioning coach got a call off him – he wanted some help and support and wanted to have a tough time in terms of getting fit. "There is no easy way to get fit. He'd been trying to get fit on his own and needed some help and support in doing that. "He has trained at Carrington today with Guy Procter and been sick. "He's had a really tough day, probably wished he hadn't come up now. "We will give him as much help as we can and see where that is at, but this is really about helping someone who did fantastic for me."

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West Ham suffer blow as striker ruled out of Bournemouth and Liverpool clashes
London 24
12:11 19 August 2015 Brad Pinard

West Ham United's Mauro Zarate West Ham striker Mauro Zarate has tweeted that he will miss the next two games through injury. Zarate impressed in pre-season and took that into the start of the season with a goal in a win at Arsenal. However, the Argentine is now set to miss the next two games and this could be a real worry for the Hammers. Diafra Sakho and Modibo Maiga are the only first team strikers available for Slaven Bilic with Andy Carroll, Enner Valencia and now Zarate injured. Elliot Lee could be promoted to the first team squad but Bilic will be desperate to sign a striker as quickly as possible.

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REVEALED: THE FOUR 'OVERSEAS' STRIKERS WEST HAM HAVE LAUNCHED BIDS FOR
By James Spiking

The Boleyn Insider has released in his column on the West Ham United official website that the Hammers have their eye on four strikers from abroad with four bids having been made over the past two days. They go on to add that some names have been in the press and others haven't.

The first name that is potentially on that list is Burak Yilmaz from Galatasaray. The latest on this deal is that the two clubs have reportedly agreed on a fee for the Turkish striker, with the club already bringing in a replacement – Oumar Niasse from Russia. Further reports suggest that the 30-year-old is keen on a move to East London.

Another name that is probably on that list is Alvaro Negredo, the former Manchester City striker, nicknamed the Beast. The Spanish international already has Premier League experience, winning the title with City under Roberto Mancini. Last year, Negredo was loaned out to La Liga side Valencia but is now being linked with a move to the Hammers who face competition from Arsenal and Manchester City – according to London24.

The third name that is being linked with a move to play for the Hammers is Eduardo Vargas, who like Negredo, also has Premier League experience. Chilean international Vargas has played in the English top flight before with Queens Park Rangers but is now in the Serie A having returned to Napoli. TalkSPORT have reported that a deal for Vargas would potentially be a loan deal, giving the 25-year-old another chance to prove himself in England.

Finally, Moussa Sow is also being linked with a potential move to Upton Park. Reports are suggesting that the Hammers are likely to offer £12m for the Fenerbahce striker who has scored 51 goals in 102 appearances. The 29-year-old is also wanted by Sunderland. Following the arrival of Robin van Persie to the Turkish club, and the fact Sow only has a year left on his current deal, an exit to the Premier League is likely.

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West Ham losing interest in Hull playmaker Tom Huddlestone as Slaven Bilic looks at other midfield options
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:50, 19 August 2015 | UPDATED: 11:11, 19 August 2015

West Ham have cooled their interest in Hull City playmaker Tom Huddlestone. The Hammers had spoken to the Tigers about proposed swoop for the former Tottenham midfielder. But Slaven Bilic has decided to explore other midfield options ahead of the transfer deadline. West Ham could yet revive their interest, but for now, the move for Huddlestone is on ice. The 28-year-old has started all three games for Steve Bruce's side this season. It comes after Bruce admitted he was 'powerless' over the future of Huddlestone following Hull's 1-1 draw with Wolves on Sunday. 'I am sure West Ham, like anybody, knows he has a buyout in his contract and if they get to that figure I am powerless,' Bruce said. 'The agents will be touting him around everywhere, which I know they are. But there's nothing I can do.' Huddlestone has four caps for England and joined Hull for £5million in August 2013. Next up for Bruce's Hull is a Championship match against Fulham on Wednesday night.

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West Ham pull out of signing Emmanuel Adebayor from Tottenham
Spurs are desperate to get the striker off their wage bill, but they still can't find a buyer
By Jason Burt, Chief Football Correspondent
Telegraph.co.uk
9:04AM BST 19 Aug 2015

West Ham United have pulled out of a surprise deal to sign Emmanuel Adebayor from Tottenham Hotspur. Telegraph Sport understands that a move was close to being agreed before West Ham's opening Premier League match of the season away to Arsenal earlier this month with Adebayor keen to stay in London. However after the 2-0 victory at the Emirates West Ham called Spurs to say they did not want to proceed with the deal in which they would have taken Adebayor for free but picked up his £110,000-a-week wages in full. West Ham sources have confirmed that a fresh inquiry was made for Adebayor who the club tried to sign in the January transfer window before Spurs chairman Daniel Levy pulled the plug on the move at the last-minute on deadline day. However the sources added that a deal was not as close as Spurs have suggested although negotiations had continued. It remains possible that a move could yet be revived for Adebayor who has a year left on his contract at Spurs who are desperate for him to leave given his astronomic wages. Adebayor has been stripped of a squad number this season – Harry Kane has taken his number 10 shirt – and has been told he will not play for the club again. Spurs have conducted an extensive clear-out of their squad with Aaron Lennon also told he can leave and also having his squad number – number seven – removed. But Adebayor is the priority. The 31-year-old has turned down a number of offers including Aston Villa who are managed by Tim Sherwood, the former Spurs boss, who even showed the Togolese striker around Villa's training ground and booked a medical. Selling Adebayor remains a major concern for Spurs before the transfer window closes with the player having also refused to negotiate a pay off – as he has demanded that the remainder of his contract is paid up in full. Spurs do not want to do this. West Ham are extremely keen to add a striker and had hoped to sign Javier Hernandez from Manchester United. The Mexican was understood to want to join Slaven Bilic's squad in the search of regular first-team football but it now appears that he is regarded as back-up to Wayne Rooney – unless United sign another striker – and may not be allowed to leave. West Ham are believed to have decided against Adebayor also because there is renewed hope that record signing Andy Carroll can make a significant impact when he finally returns to full fitness even though that may not happen until October

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Jordan Spence showing promise he showed at West Ham United, says MK Dons boss Karl Robinson
Karl Robinson full of praise for OneMK sponsored man of the match Jordan Spence
onemk.co.uk
James Averill 19 Aug 2015 at 07:44By James Averill,Staff Reporter

MK Dons manager Karl Robinson believes Jordan Spence has what it takes to fulfill the potential he showed at West Ham United. Spence signed permanently for Dons last season and was a crucial part of the squad that helped win promotion to the Championship. He looks like he will be just as critical this season and his second OneMK-sponsored man of the match performance in a row proves how important he is to the side, particularly given the attacking threat he can offer. "When you play against a diamond you need one of your defenders to have that offensive nous to go and make an overload in the middle and the final third and he did that in abundance tonight," said Robinson. "He's really come of age and he's the real deal when he plays like that. He has a couple of inconsistent performances every now and again but you have to let him off the hook for that. "He was a big hope at West Ham for large parts of his career and that's why because he has the power, the pace, the game understanding and the drive to be better."

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Report: Bilic ready to wield the axe on Collins, Norwich interested
HITC
Tim Poole

West Ham could reportedly sell the centre-back, with the Canaries keen on adding a defender to their ranks. Slaven Bilic could wield the axe on West Ham United defender James Collins, with the 31-year-old having slipped down the pecking order following the arrival of Angelo Ogbonna, according to the Daily Mirror. And Norwich City want to take the centre-back off the east London side's hands. Indeed, the Mirror report that West Ham are willing to listen to offers for Collins as he has just one year left on his contract. Norwich boss Alex Neil is said to want at least two new signings, with one of them being a defensive reinforcement.

2014/15 (Per Game) Tackles Interceptions Headers Clearances Minutes Played
James Tomkins 1.41 1.55 4.59 9.45 1,852
Winston Reid 1.13 1.6 2.83 9.27 2,503
James Collins 0.89 2.04 3.85 10.67 1,879
Aaron Cresswell 0.82 0.87 1.42 3.89 3,420
Carl Jenkinson 0.81 1.09 0.69 3.56 2,667

As Opta stats show, Collins was bettered by both James Tomkins and Winston Reid in terms of the number of tackles he won in the Premier League last season. The West Ham centre-back did average more interceptions per game than both, however. And the 31-year-old also won more headers per game than Reid, while making more clearances per appearance than any West Ham defender.
Ogbonna's arrival has clearly impacted the Welshman, though, and he has found himself out of favour under Bilic so far this term. The Hammers' loss could well end up Norwich's gain.

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WEST HAM TOLD THEY'LL NEED TO PAY £9M TO SIGN VERSATILE STRIKER
By Dean Ammi
readwestham.com

West Ham United transfer target Moussa Sow is available for just £9.1million, reports TalkSport. The forward's release clause has been revealed following Fenerbahce's decision to reject a £5.6million bid from Russian outfit Dynamo Moscow. Both the Hammers and fellow Premier League side Sunderland have been linked with the goal-scorer this summer, with Slaven Bilic looking to boost the forward options at Upton Park following the long-term injuries to Andy Carroll and Enner Valencia. Predominantly an attacking midfielder, the 29=year-old has a good eye for goal. He found the back of the net on 14 occasions, as well as recording five assists, in the top tier of Turkish football last season. The Black Cats have also been tracking the attacker.
The Senegalese international would link up well with fellow countrymen Cheikhou Kouyate and Diafra Sakho, which could give the Boleyn Ground club the upper hand when negotiating with the player. Sow has 11 goals in 29 appearances for the Senegal national side.

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A BIT OF PATIENCE IS NECESSARY!
By S J Chandos 19 Aug 2015 at 08:00
WTID

Ok, so the team failed the 'litmus test' last Saturday against Leicester City. In my last column I discussed the possibility of following up on the Arsenal result by taking maximum points from Leicester City and Bournemouth. It did not happen, but there is no need to be too down hearted or fearful. Leicester City played extremely well in the first half and deserved their 0-2 half-time lead. They played fast, counter-attacking football and looked a yard quicker than our players in the first 45 minutes. Plus in Claudio Ranieri they have a highly experienced manager, who set them up very well and sent them out with an effective game plan.

Nevertheless, we had a couple of decent chances in the opening half and, with a bit of luck, could have converted at least once. In the second half it was a totally different story, with Pedro Obiang's new midfield partnership with Mark Noble giving us a much firmer grip on midfield. We literally laid siege to their goal, but could not grab the equalizer. Individually, Ogbonna, Obiang, Noble and Payet all impressed. Sakho and Zarate worked hard up front and Lanzini looked lively, in making a promising PL debut. Unfortunately, the two full-backs, Jenkinson and Cresswell, did not exactly look 'on top of their game. As for Reece Oxford, the lad is still only sixteen years of age, of course his performances are likely to fluctuate at times. That is the nature of young players, but hopefully he will have taken something positive from the match and be able to apply that learning to his ongoing development as a player. Oxford is an absolutely top notch prospect, but he still needs careful handling and managed exposure to the demands of first team football.

The fact is we fans need to have a bit of patience this season. We have a new manager and coaching staff, plus we are have a number of new signings/youth prospects that need to be integrated in to the squad. The management are applying their ideas and implementing a new style of play. The established players are adjusting to a new regime and the overseas signings are acclimatising to the extra demands of PL football. Take Payet for instance, he had a very good league debut, but against Leicester City he also got a taste of the type of close attention that opposing teams will undoubtedly pay him this season. Payet is obviously a class forward and he will deliver. It is just a matter of fully adjusting to the English game and his new team mates. This same learning and integration process also applies to the other new additions both individually and collectively, as part of a unit.

What is certain is that there were more than enough positives in our second half display to promise good things to come. Most encouragingly, they are playing the ball out from the back and we are adopting a West Ham style passing game. Whereas Leicester City were successful in reducing our passing options in the first 45 minutes, in the second half they found it far harder to contain our more effective passing and movement. We will get better and the results will follow, I am totally confident of that. So what if we have to suffer the odd inconsistent performance, in this early phase of the season. It will be more than worth it when the team well and truly 'clicks,' as it surely will soon. When that does happen I can see a few unsuspecting opponents getting a right mauling.

I suppose the big question now is who else will be signing for the club before the summer transfer window slams shut? The greatest imperative is to secure a new striker. Carroll should be fit to return some time in September, which is encouraging. However, losing Valencia for between 3-6 months is a real blow. There are a number of rumours circulating about who the club are targeting. Personally, I would prefer to acquire a striker with existing PL experience. In that category, my preference would be for either Javier Hernandez from Man Utd or Charlie Austin from QPR. They will be expensive though, Hernandez in the region of £12m and Austin £15m. However, I believe both players are less of a gamble (than some cheaper overseas alternatives) and more likely to score goals.The problem is that QPR are playing 'hard ball' on that inflated £15m fee, while Man Utd need striker additions, of their own, before they will agree to sell Hernandez. So, at least for the time being, there appears to be stale mate on both those fronts.

We are in a particularly precarious position at the moment. We must hope that Sakho and Zarate stay injury free or we could find ourselves relying on Maiga and/or Lee up front. Even allowing for Carroll's impending return, that is not a comfortable position in which to find ourselves. In all honesty, we probably need to sign two strikers, one permanent and another on loan, to ensure that we have the required strength in depth. Especially considering Carroll's poor injury record and the fact that Sakho allegedly has a long term back condition that needs to be managed. I sincerely hope that the club do the deal(s) that are necessary. We should not gamble with the strikers that we currently have nor miss the boat and end up looking for additions in the bargain box of assorted free-agent strikers. That very scenario has come to pass in the recent past. But hopefully we have moved on as a club since those days and we will not be reduced to such desperate (and usually fruitless) measures!

It is good to see Leo Chambers back from long-term injury and playing for the U-21s once again. The youngster has been out injured for 18 months and has missed an awful lot of football. Yet, he is highly thought of at the club and (if he stays injury free) can still realise his potential. Chambers can play either at right-back or centre-back, but I would argue that it is at right-back where there is a particular opportunity. We currently have Jenkinson and O'Brien covering that position. The former player is on-loan and the latter is arguably not a top quality right-back. In the absence of a new signing (such as Sam Byram at Leeds Utd) there is a great incentive for Chambers to impress Slaven Bilic and get some more first team playing time this season; with the objective of establishing himself in the position the following season. Chambers has a lot to do before that happens, but he definitely has the talent. He also has to prove he can command the fitness, dedication and application to go with it?

Finally, I see that Sam Allardyce has allegedly accused the club of 'ingratitude' in not offering him a contract extension. I do not intend to get in to 'matters Allardyce' yet again! However, what I will say is that wages of £3m per year (£12m over four years), plus bonuses, is more than enough 'gratitude' for most people. Let it go Sam and just move on once and for all. We certainly have!

SJ. Chandos.

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WEST HAM STRIKER TARGET SET TO SNUB THE CLUB FOR CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FOOTBALL
By Dean Ammi
readwestham.com

West Ham United striker target Emmanuel Adebayor could be set to snub the club in favour of a move to Lazio, according to Italian media outlet Tutto Mercato Web. The 31-year-old has been linked with a move to Upton Park for the majority of the month, but it would appear that the forward has various options to consider including Premier League side Aston Villa. Adebayor has a good relationship with his former manager Tim Sherwood, so Villa Park could be a real possibility. Lazio would perhaps be a more viable proposition for the Togolese international, as they can offer Adebayor Champions League football this season. However, it would be difficult to foresee the Serie A side being able to afford his rather large wages. In addition to 29 goals in 63 international appearances for Togo's national team, Adebayor has a plethora of footballing experience, having played for Real Madrid, Arsenal and Monaco throughout his career. In 2007/08, he also made the PFA Team of the Year, showing the ability he possesses.

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Kévin Malcuit in talks to join West Ham United
getfootballnewsfrance.com

Premier League side West Ham United have opened talks to sign French defender and right-back Kévin Malcuit from Ligue 2 side Niort, according to our colleagues at RMC. The 24 year old's current deal runs out in 2016 and Niort have decided not to block the player's departure. St Étienne and OGC Nice are also interested. It is understood that the Hammers have been in touch with the player's entourage but also formally with Niort about a possible move.

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West Ham transfers: James Collins linked with Norwich after losing starting spot under Slaven Bilic
0 COMMENTS22:30, 18 AUGUST 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
The centre-back has slipped down the pecking order with the arrival of Angelo Ogbonna and it's understood Hammers are ready to listen to offers
The Mirror

James Collins could become the latest player to leave West Ham this summer, with Norwich interested. Collins has just a year left on his contract and it is understood the Hammers are ready to listen to offers. The 31-year-old Wales international centre-back, who has had two spells with the Irons, has yet to feature in the Premier League this season. He was sent off in his last appearance - the 2-2 Europa League draw with Astra Giurgiu on July 30. The Irons went out of the competition in the return leg. Collins has slipped down the pecking order under first-year manager Slaven Bilic - a former West Ham centre-half himself - following the £8m summer arrival from Juventus of Italy international defender Angelo Ogbonna. Norwich boss Alex Neil wants at least two new signings before the transfer deadline on September 1, with central defence an area that he is keen to address. * WEST HAM have lost their appeal over goalkeeper Adrian's dismissal against Leicester on Saturday.

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West Ham annoyed by Leicester City defeat says Angelo Ogbonna
HITC
Sean Lunt

The defender says they must now focus on the upcoming game against Bournemouth and making the fans happy again. Speaking to the club's official website, West Ham defender Angelo Ogbonna says the squad are annoyed by the 2-1 loss to Leicester City on Saturday. The Hammers were comfortably beaten by Claudio Ranieri's side in their first home game of the new season, with a poor first half display unable to be rectified by a spirited attempted comeback in the second. The result was hugely disappointing for Slaven Bilic and his side after expectations had been raised following an impressive 2-0 victory over Arsenal in their opening fixture. And Ogbonna says they are annoyed the result, but says overall it wasn't a bad performance from them.
"We were very annoyed on Saturday because we know we have the quality," he told whufc.com. "We were very solid against Arsenal. The whole team did very well. We did not do badly [against Leicester], everybody defended and attacked but it's just the result that was disappointing and we are annoyed at that." The defeat to Leicester has the chance to have a big effect of the Hammers squad, with it likely to have been a big come down for them following their impressive victory over Arsene Wenger's side. The task now for Slaven Bilic is to get his players to get over the disappointment quickly, with Premier League new boys Bournemouth up next in the Premier League. And Ogbonna insists that they must cool down and focus on getting the win next time around to make the fans happy once again.

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