Daily WHUFC News - 19th November 2015

Cresswell - We are raring to go
WHUFC.com

Having marked his 50th Premier League appearance for the Hammers last time
out against Everton, Aaron Cresswell is hoping to build on his outstanding
half-century against Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday. Since joining West Ham
United in June 2014, the left-back has gone from strength to strength; not
only taking the step up to the Premier League in his stride but also being
crowned Hammer of the Year at the end of his debut season. The 25-year-old's
achievement is even more impressive considering that he has reached 50
league games in the quickest possible time, not to mention the fact he has
played every minute of those games. Reflecting on his milestone, Cresswell
said: "It's a nice figure to reach, I didn't actually realise at the time.
"A friend of mine texted me after the game, touch wood I haven't had any
injuries, and hopefully that continues. "I had a similar sort of thing at
Ipswich, I played there for three seasons and I think I only missed six
games in that time. Thankfully through the majority of my career I've stayed
injury free."

While the Hammers have thoroughly enjoyed the left-back's fitness record as
well as his sparkling form, they have not been so lucky with Cresswell's
teammates Dimitri Payet and Enner Valencia. With both attack minded players
set for a spell on the side-lines, Cresswell conceded their absences would
be keenly felt: "These things happen in football, it wasn't the best of
tackles (on Payet). At the same time, Enner has had no luck and he's out
injured again. When these things happen you just have to keep your head
down, work even harder and come back strong.
"We haven't had a game since Dimi's injury, so we haven't had to change
formation or style yet. I'm sure that's what the manager has been thinking
about a lot. Training wise, we're still buzzing about, we've done quite well
this season so we're confident and we're all looking forward to the
Tottenham game. "Obviously it's not nice to see players get injured, their
teammates and fellow professionals. For us, we have to get on with our jobs
and be s professional as possible."

Having enjoyed a few days rest and recuperation over the international
break, the defender is now raring to go with rivals Tottenham Hotspur in his
sights. Cresswell, a confident character by nature, firmly reiterated his
belief that the Hammers' have every chance of coming away from White Hart
Lane on Sunday afternoon with all three points. "When the fixtures come out
the Tottenham games are one of the ones we look for first. Last season I
think we were better side and were unlucky not to win. It's just one of
things where we were the better side over 90 minutes but couldn't quite see
it out. "Both games last season we were unlucky, even the penalty in the
last minute, Adrian almost saved it, but that went against us too. "We know
it'll be a tough game, every game is but our away form has been terrific so
far, apart from the Watford game. Across 38 games every team is going to
struggle in one or two. I thought we bounced back well against Everton and
were unlucky not to get the three points. "We know that if we play to our
best we have a very good chance, and that breeds a lot of confidence."

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The Big Interview - Michail Antonio
WHUFC.com

Ahead of his first London derby with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 22
November, Michail Antonio is hoping to make his mark.

After impressing in the Hammers' 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in last week's
behind-closed-doors-friendly, the 25-year-old spoke about Alex Song's return
to fitness, filling Dimitri Payet's shoes and enjoying derby days...

You played alongside Alex Song in the friendly with Crystal Palace last
week, how much of a boost is it to have him back?

"It's a huge boost. He's a great player, with a lot of experience, and
someone who can break things down but also makes things happen. It's a great
addition to the squad, especially as we've already started the season so
well. For him to come back into the squad is massive."

You mentioned his experience, he's played for Arsenal and Barcelona, how
important is that experience?

"It's invaluable. You need quality in depth and he certainly has that. We
have a great squad as it is, his return will push them to be even better and
that will push us up higher the league."

We've had some bad news with injuries recently, but that gives players like
yourself an opportunity?

"Definitely, Dimitri getting injured is a great loss as well as Enner. Their
absence gives other players the chance to become to star of the club and
allow them to show what they can do.

"Dimitri has been absolutely superb so far so he will be greatly missed.
It's time for the other boys to step up and show what they can do."

And you for personally, you must be chomping at the bit to show what you can
do?

"Definitely, when I joined, I knew it wasn't going to be easy to break
through and stake my claim in the Premier League. It's one of those things
where I need to wait and bide my time."

We're facing Tottenham this weekend, a massive game for both sides?

"I've been part of quite a few derbies, my first ever game for Sheffield
Wednesday was the Steel City derby, I've been in the Southampton v
Portsmouth derby and the Nottingham Forest v Derby County derby.

"They are always great matches to be involved with so I can't wait to be
involved in the Tottenham v West Ham derby."

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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com

Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest
injury update – in association with Spire Roding Hospital...

Hello everyone,

We will start with Dimitri Payet, who has suffered a significant high ankle
sprain, or syndesmosis injury, to his left leg.

After consulting the specialist on Monday, the ankle specialist decided not
to operate on Dimitri, which is good news. The bad news is that he will
still be out for 12 weeks if all goes to plan.

Dimi is an intelligent, experienced football player with a good body
awareness and understands the biomechanics of the injury he has suffered. He
is a top professional and positive about the rehabilitation period ahead.

The first phase is to let the body heal and it is important that his high
ankle sprain is given the ability to scar. The ligaments are damaged and
need to get strong again, and this is done by allowing scar tissue to
develop.

For two weeks, he will be using the boot to keep the joint in a certain
position, allowing the body to heal without straining the injured ligaments.

Enner Valencia has suffered a high ankle sprain to his right leg. He is
going through an immobilisation period of two weeks at present and we will
reassess the situation at the end of this period.

We have some positive news regarding Diafra Sakho, who has returned to full
training following his recovery from a quadriceps injury suffered ahead of
the Watford game. Diafra will be available for Sunday's game at Tottenham
Hotspur.

Pedro Obiang will join training this week after recovering from the thigh
injury he suffered in training before the Watford away match.

Alex Song came through his first game in six months against Reading. It was
a success and he had no reaction from a medical point of view.

He is training fully with the squad for several weeks now and is getting
closer to making his return to the Premier League.

We are coming to the end of the international break. James Collins returned
after playing 45 minutes for Wales in good health, while we all congratulate
Darren Randolph on helping Republic of Ireland to qualify for EURO 2016.
Unfortunately, Darren picked up minor knock and will miss a few days off
training.

Cheikhou Kouyate had a very long haul flight to and from Madagascar, where
Senegal drew 2-2, and he then captained his country and scored in a 3-0 in
in the second leg.

So I'm pleased to report that everyone is looking forward to Sunday's big
game with Tottenham. Let's hope we can get another fine away win.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science

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Valencia - I hope to be back as soon as possible
WHUFC.com

Enner Valencia has vowed to make a return to first-team action as quickly as
possible and hopes to play a major role for West Ham United in 2016.

Valencia was forced to miss the start of the season after he was injured
during the Europa League game agains AFC Astra Giurgiu and only made his
return to action against Watford at the end of October.

But the Ecuador international suffered more heartbreak in the next game when
he came on as a substitute against Everton and damaged his ankle following a
challenge with Seamus Coleman.

After seeing a specialist this week, Valencia was told he would be ruled out
of action until the start of the New Year, but the 26-year-old says he will
be doing everything to come back sooner.

Valencia said: "Thank God the injury isn't quite as bad as initially
thought. I hope to be back as soon as possible.

"I was worried when the injury happened. When I clashed with the Everton
player I feared it might be the same problem (as before) but it wasn't, it
was a minor ligament issue.

"I'm following all the doctor's advice and despite wearing a boot, my aim is
to get back as soon as possible.

"The first injury I suffered here was the first serious injury in my career,
it was very tough but I was very impressed by how good the medical team are
here.

"They do an amazing job and I was able to return three weeks earlier than
expected. Now more than ever I need to put my faith in them, continue to
work hard and hopefully not get many injuries in the future."

Valencia has been overwhelmed by the support that his team-mates, the
medical staff and the fans have showed towards him this season and hopes to
repay their faith by coming back and producing his best form for the Club.

Valencia added: "It definitely helps. The people have been incredibly
understanding - the board, the fans, the staff and of course my teammates.

"Being injured is the worst thing that can happen to a footballer so having
all this support is really fantastic. It's helping me have a quicker
recovery.

"I have received so many supportive messages recently on my social media
profiles, saying things like 'I hope you get back soon' and 'We would like
you back as soon as possible'. The support has been absolutely fantastic so
I would like to thank them for that."

Valencia was gutted to see his team-mate Dimitri Payet also ruled out for
three months with an ankle injury, but hopes the team will be able to cope
without both of them and can continue their impressive start to the
campaign.

"Dimitri has been having a spectacular season so far, he has been one of the
best players in the Premier League. His injury is a very unfortunate thing
to happen. We all wish him the best and hope he gets back as soon as
possible.

"I haven't had the chance to play so much this season but Dimitri has played
every game and he's been the main man. The Club did make some very good
signings this summer so I think there are players who can come in and do
well and keep our form going."

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West Ham United's Dimitri Payet relieved to have avoided surgery
Last Updated: 18/11/15 9:44am
SSN

West Ham United playmaker Dimitri Payet is relieved he will not have to
undergo surgery on the injured ankle that has ruled him out for three
months. The France international, who has scored five goals in 12 Premier
League appearances this season, suffered the injury in the 1-1 draw with
Everton on November 7. He told the West Ham website: "It has been a week
since I sustained the injury. I am doing well. It is a long period but I am
looking forward to making a return to action. "Of course it is a big relief
for me that I will not need an operation. I speak from experience and having
had a couple of operations, it is not an easy thing to cope with. It is good
news on that front but it doesn't change the time that it will take me to
recover."
Payet's injury means Michail Antonio could make just his second league
appearance of the season when West Ham tackle Tottenham in their Sky Live
Super Sunday match this weekend. He is keen to take the chance to prove his
worth. He said: "Definitely, Dimitri getting injured is a great loss as well
as Enner [Valencia], but their absence gives other players the chance to
become a star of the club and allow them to show what they can do. "Dimitri
has been absolutely superb so far so he will be greatly missed. It's time
for the other boys to step up. "When I joined, I knew it wasn't going to be
easy to break through and stake my claim in the Premier League. It's one of
those things where I need to wait and bide my time."

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West Ham left-back Aaron Cresswell refusing to stress out over latest
England squad snub
20:26, 18 NOV 2015 UPDATED 21:54, 18 NOV 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
The 2014 signing from Ipswich has since attracted the attention of Chelsea
and Manchester City but has yet to get the call from Roy Hodgson
The Mirror

Aaron Cresswell insists he is not worrying about being kept out of the
England picture. The West Ham left-back, who has attracted the attentions of
reigning champions Chelsea and current leaders Manchester City in the
transfer market, has impressed at Upton Park but has so far been snubbed by
Roy Hodgson. Cresswell, 25, has played 50 games for the Hammers being signed
from Championship Ipswich last year. And he is set to start for West Ham
against Spurs this weekend. He said: "I never really look at it like I
should be in the squad. "I don't compare myself to the players that are in
the squad. I just concentrate on doing my best for West Ham, and hopefully
one day it [England] will happen. "If you ask any pro footballer what their
ambitions are, that would be right up there and a highlight for any
player."But at the moment I just concentrate on doing my best for West Ham.
"I'm just going to keep my head down and keep working."

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Hammers get hands-off warning from Cherries
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 18, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham have been warned off making any sort of move for Bournemouth winger
Matt Ritchie. The Irons are just one club that has tracked the 26 year old
along with West Brom, Manchester United and Stoke but Cherries boss Eddie
Howe insists he's not for sale. And ClaretandHugh was told this evening:
"We've scouted him – he's a good player."

But Howe insisted on Sky Sports News the club wasn't looking to sell the
player but added all bids would be considered on their merits.y'Matty's
(Ritchie) a good player so it's not a surprise to me he's linked to the top
clubs,' Howe told Sky Sports News. 'We'd have to see that (a bid) on its
individual merit, but certainly we're not looking to sell him. 'Matt Ritchie
on form and playing well is a threat to anybody. Whenever any of our players
gets linked, it's not welcome by us. 'We're not a selling club and we
certainly want to keep the squad together if we can in January and not the
other way.' The 26-year-old Ritchie signed for the south coast club from
Swindon in a £400,000 deal in January 2013, and has gone on to make over 100
appearances under Howe.

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Hammers set OS season tickets target
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 18, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham have confirmed for the first time that they hope to increase season
ticket holders from the current 26,000 at the Boleyn Ground to between
35,000 and 40,000 season ticket holders at the Olympic Stadium.

If West Ham achieve their upper 40,000 season ticket holder target at the
Olympic Stadium it means few tickets will be available for general sale at
the newly transformed stadium. With at least 3,000 seats reserved for away
supporters for Premier League games and another 3,600 seats reserved for
corporate members, around 7,400 would be left for general sale but many of
these may be given away free of charge of part of the club's agreement with
Newham council to provide up to 100,000 tickets to local residents.

Former Arsenal director now West Ham's commercial director, Felicity Barnard
revealed that the season ticket target in an interview at a recent brand
conference which can be seen below.

"We are moving to 35,000, hoping to get to 40,000 (season tickets),
obviously with season tickets gone that allows us to have a much more fluid
match by match experience and they are going very well so we are on track to
make those numbers, absolutely. In hospitality we are doubling from 2,000 to
4,000 and we sold out in all but one lounge, so we are very pleased" Barnard
told the interviewer.

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Olympic Stadium transformed to car race track
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 18, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

The Olympic Stadium which has seen Athletics and the Rugby World Cup this
year has been transformed once again into a race track ahead of the Race of
Champions event this weekend.

The Race Of Champions is an annual end-of-season contest which has been held
for over 25 years. It brings together the world's greatest drivers from
motor sport's major disciplines – including Formula 1, World Rally, Le Mans,
MotoGP, Nascar, IndyCar and the X-Games and let's them battle head-to-head
in identical machinery.

In recent years ROC has visited the Stade de France in Paris (2004-2006),
London's Wembley Stadium (2007-2008), the 'Bird's Nest' Olympic Stadium in
Beijing (2009), Düsseldorf's Esprit Arena (2010-2011), the Rajamangala
Stadium in Bangkok (2012) and Bushy Park Barbados (2014). Now the event is
returning to its European roots once more at the Olympic Stadium.

Drivers already announced for the 2015 Race Of Champions:

Sebastian VETTEL, four-time Formula 1 World Champion
Tom KRISTENSEN, nine-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner
Petter SOLBERG, World Rallycross Champion 2014, World Rally Champion 2003
David COULTHARD, reigning ROC Champion of Champions
Mick DOOHAN, five-time 500cc MotoGP World Champion
Daniel RICCIARDO, three-time Formula 1 grand prix winner
Jorge LORENZO, double MotoGP World Champion
Nico HÜLKENBERG, F1 star and 2015 Le Mans 24 Hours winner
Jenson BUTTON, 2009 Formula 1 World Champion
More information at http://www.raceofchampions.com/

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Payet in Paris at time of attacks
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 17, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

Injured Dimtri Payet has revealed he was in Paris at the time of the
terrorist attacks. The 28-year-old French man has said he is pleased that
the England game against France was allowed to take place at Wembley tonight
and hopes that sport can help bring everyone together. Payet told WHUFC.com:
"It is a very difficult time. I was in Paris over the weekend and I was very
close to everything that happened." "The support that sport can provide in
this case and with many important sporting figures showing their support has
helped for the game to take place.
"I have seen photos of Wembley in red, white and blue which is very special.
Aside from the match itself, it is going to be a very emotional evening." On
Sunday the player posted a message in French on twitter and instagram
saying "All my thoughts to the victims of these heinous crimes. Rest in
peace, and all my support to their families. Pray that men find the reason
and love each other whatsoever."

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Premier League in match day security talks
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 18, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

Premier League bosses have issued a statement in which they discuss the
present siutation regarding security measures which may surround the weekend
fixtures and and any requirements going forward. ClaretandHugh approached
the PL this morning and was given the following statement which we trust
will come as an assurance to fans. It reads: "We are actively engaged with
our security advisers and the appropriate authorities, including the Home
Office and senior representatives from the Police, to assess current
security guidance to Premier League clubs. There is a club meeting later
this week where a full security briefing will be given. Following that,
further guidance will be issued to the clubs as well as a public statement
so fans are fully aware of what to expect when arriving at stadiums."
ClaretandHugh will keep all our followers updated as the PL releases more
details.

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CandH man's night with the French!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 18, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

ClaretandHugh's historian Nigel Kahn was at the England v France match – an
event that that will long live in the memory of those who crowded into the
stadium following the Paris terror attack. Nige is a "tough old cookie " –
having been brought up on stories of the bombings suffered by the 2nd World
War bombings suffered in the area. And he declared: "It never occurred to me
not to go – you simply go about your business but it was an odd night. "I
was there for the football but I saw many English people who I think were
there for an event and the show of solidarity between the French and our
folk was great. "There were many English kids wearing French shirts and
carrying French flags and I found myself in the 'wrong end' alongside the
visiting fans who at times were chanting for England. They were in great
spirits "There was a real show of force from armed police but it's a tribute
to the security at football staiums that these people have never got in. "Ok
there have been acts of war but what brings it home to you so strongly is
that the people who died were doing what we do – eating, drinking and having
a good time. "It was good to be a part of it and good to see England win."

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Zarate agent may be busy!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 17, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H

Mauro Zarate's agent is apparently attempting to organise a transfer back to
Italy for his client say the Italian media. The 28-year-old has made three
starts and scored two Premier League goals for the Hammers so far this
season but he is reportedly keen on moving in order to find increased
playing time. According to GazzettaTV, Zarate's agent has been in
preliminary contact with Hellas, Verona, Genoa and and Torino as he seeks a
club interested in signing his client before the January transfer window.
Zarate previously played in Serie A while on loan at Lazio from Birmingham
City but he struggled after the deal was made permanent for around £14
million in 2009. The Argentine also made 22 appearances, scoring twice,
while on loan with Inter Milan from Lazio. Whether this all just talk in an
attempt to unsettle the player remains to be seen. Zarate has previously
been touted around other clubs while still a West Ham player. On that
occasion the player denied the agent acted on his behalf and denied he was
his adviser.

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It's all about the Irons for unfazed Cresssie
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 18, 2015 in News
C and H

Aaron Cresswell is refusing to worry about the fact that England
international duty has so far passed him by. With France beaten last night,
the brilliant left back – now having played a remarkable 50 games since his
arrival from Ipswich – has only West Ham on his mind. He said: "I never
really look at it like I should be in the squad. don't compare myself to
the players that are in the squad. I just concentrate on doing my best for
West Ham and hopefully one day it will happen. If you ask any pro footballer
what their ambitions are, that would be right up there and a highlight for
any player. "But at the moment I just concentrate on doing my best for West
Ham. I'm just going to keep my head down and keep working."

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Lloris 'emotionally drained' ahead of Irons
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 18, 2015 in News
C and H

Spurs goalkeeper and captain Hugo Lloris has admitted he needs to he needs
to refocus and recover ahead of the Irons visit on Sunday. And the France
goalkeeper declared himself 'emotionally drained'as he prepares to take off
the Hammers. With over 60 per cent of the Spurs squad having been on
international duty the Hammers certainly have the edge in terms of fitness,
preparation and emotional stability. Lloris said: "We have to thank the
English for the reception they gave us, for their support (at Wembley). What
they did for us was very strong, very moving. It was big of them. "The last
three days, with the preparations we've had, had clearly taken something out
of us. But the result wasn't the most important thing about this evening. It
was secondary. "Now we have to go back to our clubs, every one of us,
refocus and recover. There will be better days than this ahead, for all of
us."

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TURKISH STRIKER TO ARRIVE IN JANUARY?
By S J Chandos 18 Nov 2015 at 08:00
WTID

The speculation regarding incoming and outgoing January transfer deals has
already began. One report that particularly caught my eye was that linking
West Ham with a move for prolific Galatasaray striker, Burak Yilmaz. Yilmaz
has a very good strike rate in Turkish football, having scored 77 times in
133 appearances for Galatasaray and notched 58 goals in 93 matches for,
former club, Trabzonspor. We know that Slaven Bilic is an admirer of the
player and there were strong rumours that last summer West Ham made an
unsuccessful £3.5m bid for the striker's services. At 30 year's of age,
Yilmaz is probably ready for a last big move to the Premier League and it
has been reported that he is in the final year of his contract with
Galatasaray. So under these circumstances it is possible that the Turkish
club will seek to cash in with a cut-price deal this winter.

However, he is not the only striker that we are being linked with. There
have also been numerous reports suggesting that West Ham are interested in
signing Roma's Ivory Coast international striker, Seydou Doumbia. Doumbia is
currently on loan at CSKA Moscow, who are also reported to be interested in
striking a permanent deal. He has certainly been in good form during his
spell on loan, having scored 8 goals in 15 appearances (in all competitions)
to date. Doumbia only joined Roma last January, but his form in Serie A was
disappointing, only scoring 2 goals in 13 matches. Hence the advent of the
loan deal, but it is strongly rumoured that Roma wish to cut their losses in
January. It has not been reported whether the current loan deal gives CSKA
Moscow first option to sign the player permanently.

Interestingly, we have also been linked once again with Islam Slimani of
Sporting. Readers will recall that West Ham were originally linked to
Slimani in 2014, prior to the World Cup Finals, when it was reported that we
had agreed a deal to sign the striker for £6m. However, we delayed closing
the deal (for whatever reason). And after he starred for Algeria, in that
summer's WC, his valuation subsequently soared. Even these latest reports
quote a fee of approximately £15-18m. As such, I very much doubt that the
club would be in a position to pay that sort of fee (plus wages) in January,
unless there was a significant outgoing deal acting as a catalyst. What does
make sense is recruiting Slimani as cover/competition for Sakho. Indeed,
Slimani's style of centre-forward play is much more akin to that of Sakho,
having the ability to lead the line, work the channels, hold up the ball,
bring others in to play and finish (including strength in the air). The 27
year old has scored a total of 31 goals in 75 appearances for Sporting and
18 goals in 40 matches for Algeria. Could David Sullivan surprise us all by
cashing in on Andy Carroll and using the fee/wages freed to bring in
Slimani?

Another potential deal that could have mileage, is that linking us with a
loan move for 29 year old Japanese international play-maker, Keisuke Honda.
Honda is currently out of favour at AC Milan, having failed to impress in
Serie A, scoring just 9 goals in 56 games. He has also only started on four
occasions in this current campaign and a loan move would definitely benefit
the player as well as his club. Readers may well recall Honda establishing a
major reputation whilst playing for CSKA Moscow, including some impressive
creative displays in the Champions League. If the player can recapture that
sort of form then he would be a valuable addition. Is it not likely that
Bilic would seek to bring in another play-maker to cover for Lanzini and the
rehabilitation and return of Payet? We shall see?

Elsewhere, there have also been rumours aplenty on possible outgoing deals.
Aside from the Collins and O'Brien to Sunderland and 'Liverpool want to
steal Lanzini' conjecture, both Zarate and Ogbonna have been linked with
moves back to Serie A. In Zarate's case, agents have allegedly reported that
the player is unhappy with his playing time at West Ham and they are
consequently exploring options for a January move. Amongst those options are
said to be Torino, Gerona and Hellas Verona. Similarly, a public statement
by former West Ham Director of Football, Gianluca Nani, has sparked
speculation that Ogbonna could return to Italy. In the latter case, it is
thought that Florentina are interested in signing the Italian international
centre-back.

The probability is that business will be minimal in January, with the
acquisition of an extra play-maker on loan the most likely option. However,
there is always the possibility that an outstanding player could suddenly
become available (such as one of Bilic's former charges at Beskitas) and the
club will resultantly transact some major transfer business. We will
probably be actively looking to secure outgoing deals for Collins, O'Brien
and Jarvis to free up some wage money and (if possible) secure a transfer
fee. I do not think the Ogbonna move is likely, but someone like Zarate
could possibly go to facilitate another striker deal. I suppose the big
unknown factor is Andy Carroll and how the club would respond to an
acceptable offer by the likes of Newcastle United or Sunderland? One thing
is certain, potential suitors can forget about getting Carroll on the cheap.
I would imagine it would take at least a bid in the region of £10-12m to
tempt the club. Alternatively, perhaps nothing will happen until the summer
window, if at all?

Finally, it is Spurs up next this Sunday and hopefully we are more than
ready for them. We need Lanzini to effect a smooth, and effective,
transition to the central play-maker role and the other midfielders to step
up to compensate for the considerable loss of Payet. In particular, it may
prove to be a case of what we lose in guile, skill and vision being
compensated for by strength, power and pace! In particular, we definitely
need Kouyate to have a big game and for Song/Obiang and Antonio to play a
role in the match. It is time to prove that we are very far from a 'one man'
team! I am sticking with my call (made last week) of a 1-2 away victory for
the Hammers. COYI!

SJ. Chandos.

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West Ham's Dimitri Payet: It is a big relief I don't need an operation on
ankle injury
SAM LONG
Evening Standard

Dimitri Payet has revealed that he does not require an operation on the
ankle injury that has ruled him out of action for at least three months. The
28-year-old, who joined the Hammers from Marseille on a free transfer in the
summer, suffered the injury during West Ham's recent 1-1 draw with Everton
after a challenge with James McCarthy. Payet's extended absence will come as
a blow to Slaven Billic's side given that the Frenchman's early form has
helped the club climb to sixth place in the Premier League table. It was
initially feared that Payet would have to undergo surgery to help repair the
damage to his ankle but he is glad to have avoided such a scenario. "Of
course it is a big relief for me that I will not need an operation," he told
the club's official website. "I speak from experience and having had a
couple of operations, it is not an easy thing to cope with. "It is good news
on that front but it doesn't change the time that it will take me to
recover. "It has been a week since I sustained the injury. I am doing well."
Payet also praised the support that he has received in the early stages of
his spell on the sidelines and is already focusing his efforts on a return
to action in the New Year. "The support has been fantastic from my
teammates, everyone at the club and from the supporters. "It is during these
these times that you can feel really loved. "That is very important and I
want to get back to playing as quickly as I can and perform to the way I
have been doing so far this season." Payet is West Ham's top scorer this
season with five goals in 12 top-flight appearances.

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Superb Payet is a great loss to West Ham but we all need to step up, says
Antonio
SAM LONG
Evening STandard

Michail Antonio has urged West Ham's players to 'step up' during Dimitri
Payet's absence through injury. The Frenchman has been an integral member of
Slaven Billic's side this season but has been ruled out for three months
with the ankle injury he sustained prior to the international break. The
28-year-old is West Ham's top scorer with five Premier League goals this
term and his absence is expected to leave a creative void in the Hammers'
midfield. Antonio is disappointed that Payet will not feature until the New
Year but is hopeful that his spell on the sidelines will give others an
opportunity to prove their worth. "Dimitri has been absolutely superb so far
so he will be greatly missed. "It's time for the other boys to step up," he
told the club's official website. "Dimitri getting injured is a great loss,
as well as Enner [Valencia], but their absence gives other players the
chance to become a star of the club and allow them to show what they can
do."
Antonio, who signed for the east Londoners from Nottingham Forest in the
summer, has played just 31 minutes of top-flight football this term. The
25-year-old is not concerned about his lack of game time and is willing to
wait to earn his chance to impress. "When I joined, I knew it wasn't going
to be easy to break through and stake my claim in the Premier League. "It's
one of those things where I need to wait and bide my time."

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Galatasaray to listen to offers for Hammers target
By GuyBell | Posted: November 18, 2015
Brentwood Gazette

West Ham United's hopes of landing Galatasaray striker Burak Yilmaz have
been boosted after the club revealed they are willing to listen to offers
for the player. The Hammers had a bid rejected for the Turkish international
in the summer and are already lining up a second offer in the January
transfer window. But their chances of landing one of their top transfer
targets have increased with the news the Turkish outfit are unable to rule
out selling the forward. Hammers boss Slaven Bilic has been linked with
making moves for a number of his former players at Besiktas and Burak Yilmaz
could be the first to walk through the doors at the Boleyn Ground in
January. An initial offer of £3.5 million was rejected in the summer and
Bilic is thought to be readying an improved bid.

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Hammers and Everton on alert as Milan midfielder ponders future
By GuyBell | Posted: November 18, 2015
Brentwood gazette

West Ham United and Everton have both been placed on alert after top
transfer target Keisuke Honda admitted he is unhappy with his current role
as a bench player. The Japanese international has been frustrated by his
lack of playing time for AC Milan this season and he could be set to make a
move to the Premier League at the turn of the new year.
The Hammers were dealt a blow when playmaker Dimitri Payet suffered a long
term injury, ruling him out for three months which could have an adverse
effect on the East London side's campaign. Now Slaven Bilic is believed to
be on the look out for additions in January and Honda, 29, is thought to fit
the bill. The Upton Park side have made an impressive start to the campaign
having already beaten Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal, and will be
hopeful of achieving qualification for European football.

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Payet 'doing well' in comeback as Antonio eyes action
Date published: Wednesday 18th November 2015 10:20
TeamTalk

Dimitri Payet is already looking forward to a return to action for West Ham,
but Michail Antonio hopes to make the most of his absence in the meantime.
West Ham revealed on Monday that Payet does not require surgery but will
still be out until the New Year with the ankle injury sustained in the 1-1
draw against Everton on November 7. It is news which came as a big relief to
the 28-year-old. He told West Ham's official website: "It has been a week
since I sustained the injury. I am doing well. It is a long period but I am
looking forward to making a return to action. "Of course it is a big relief
for me that I will not need an operation. I speak from experience and having
had a couple of operations, it is not an easy thing to cope with. It is good
news on that front but it doesn't change the time that it will take me to
recover." With Payet facing an extended period on the sidelines, Antonio is
hoping for a chance to prove his worth. The summer signing from Nottingham
Forest has made only one appearance for the Hammers so far but could be
involved against Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Sunday. He said: "Dimitri
getting injured is a great loss as well as Enner [Valencia], but their
absence gives other players the chance to become a star of the club and
allow them to show what they can do.
"Dimitri has been absolutely superb so far so he will be greatly missed.
It's time for the other boys to step up. "When I joined, I knew it wasn't
going to be easy to break through and stake my claim in the Premier League.
It's one of those things where I need to wait and bide my time."

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WEST HAM SET TO SIGN NEW GOALKEEPER
By Ste Hoare
readwestham.com

West Ham are set to sign 17-year-old goalkeeper Pablo Vasquez, who has
recently been on trial at the club. The Spaniard was released by Sevilla
after nagging injury concerns and began playing for his local side in
Nervion. A report from Spanish publication Estadio Deportivo (via Inside
Futbol), says that the Hammers' staff were so impressed by Vasquez during
his trial, they've offered him a contract. However, it looks likely that
Vasquez won't be moving to London immediately and instead he will join up
with his new team-mates for the beginning of the 2015/16 season. Obviously,
Vasquez will come in and join up with the West Ham youth development
programme and won't be competing with Adrian or Darren Randolph for first
team recognition immediately. However, the aim will be to prepare him to
eventually be in a position where he can put pressure on those two and
eventually force his way into Slaven Bilic's plans

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'It wasn't going to be easy' Benched Hammers winger ready for Spurs chance
Londonn 24
10:48 18 November 2015
Pete Evans

Michail Antonio has opened up on his patient wait for a West Ham chance that
may arrive after Dimitri Payet's injury. 4 The former Nottingham Forest
winger has had to watch West Ham's impressive start from the sidelines
haivng made just one appearance since his summer switch to the Premier
League. His late introduction in their memorable 2-1 win at Manchester City
is his only Hammers run out to date but with Payet's injury there is a
vacancy in Slaven Bilic's side that Antonio will hope to fill. And ahead of
Sunday's London derby with Tottenham Antonio revealed he always expected a
wait for his chance. "When I joined, I knew it wasn't going to be easy to
break through and stake my claim in the Premier League," he told the club's
official website. "It's one of those things where I need to wait and bide my
time. "I've been part of quite a few derbies. They are always great matches
to be involved with so I can't wait to be involved in the Tottenham v West
Ham derby."

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