Daily WHUFC News - 16th January 2016

Preview - Newcastle United
WHUFC.com

The background

There's no time for rest for Slaven Bilic and his West Ham United team as
they make the long journey to Newcastle United on Saturday.

Fresh from defeating AFC Bournemouth 3-1 on Tuesday night, the Hammers will
hope to make it a Club record in the Premier League and extend their
unbeaten run to nine games.

Of those eight matches undefeated, the Hammers have won their last three to
move to within a solitary point of the top four.

They showed real heart and character to pull off their result at
Bournemouth, fighting back from a goal down to take the points thanks to a
Dimitri Payet free-kick and Enner Valencia's double.

Newcastle are in the drop zone, with 18 points from 21 matches, but did show
heart of their own on Tuesday to come back from 3-1 behind to claim a point
against Manchester United.

Hope seemed minimal when Wayne Rooney and Jesse Lingard fired United into a
2-0 lead, but back came Newcastle through Georginio Wijnaldum and Aleksandar
Mitrovic.

A second for Rooney gave the visitors the lead again, but Phil Dummett's
last gasp leveller ensured the points would be shared.

The history

West Ham and Newcastle have met 128 times previously, with Newcastle holding
the edge with 51 victories to the Hammers' 40.

The history dates back to an FA Cup tie in February 1908, which the Magpies
won 3-0.

West Ham's first win against the north east side came in the very first
league meting, in October 1923, when William Brown's goal was enough to
separate the sides.

In recent times, West Ham defeated the Geordies 2-0 at the Boleyn Ground
earlier this season thanks to a Dimitri Payet double, while the
corresponding fixture last term ended 2-0 in Newcastle's favour – a result
which sealed their Premier League survival.

The match

Team news

West Ham United

The Hammers welcome Victor Moses back into their squad after a six-week
lay-off due to a hamstring injury. The on-loan winger returned to full
training this week.

Cheikhou Kouyate could also feature after sitting out of Tuesday's game, but
Andy Carroll is out after suffering a hamstring problem at the Vitality
Stadium.

Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini are the only other absentees as Bilic begins
to have more options to call upon again.

Newcastle United

Newcastle's new signings Henri Salvert and Jonjo Shelvey could make their
Magpies debuts in Saturday's game against the Hammers.

However, Papiss Cisse has had surgery on a groin injury and is set to be out
for a further month.

Match info

- Saturday's referee is Neil Swarbrick. He will be assisted by Scott Ledger
and John Brooks. Lee Mason is the fourth official. Swarbrick has refereed
one Hammers match this term, the 2-2 draw at Sunderland in which he sent off
the Black Cats' Jeremain Lens.
- West Ham have won two of the last three encounters, including a 2-0
triumph at Upton Park in September.
- Newcastle have drawn a league-high five matches at home this season.
- West Ham have won their last three league matches and are unbeaten in
their last eight (D5).
- Their win at Bournemouth on Tuesday was their first in six away games (D3,
L2).
- Only Leicester and Arsenal have won more away league games than West Ham's
five this season.
- Dimitri Payet has scored or set up more goals for West Ham in all
competitions this season than any other player (six goals, five assists).

Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info

- Tickets for the game have SOLD OUT to Hammers supporters.
- Supporters travelling by train to the game can find up to the minute info
here, while latest news on the roads is here.
- A very cold day is expected on Tyneside, with temperatures only crawling
up to 2C (36F) at kick-off time. It is, at least, expected to be a dry day.
- If you're not heading to the game, make sure you stay up to date on our
digital channels. The whufc.com Match Centre has live audio commentary and
text updates, in-running stats and photos and more, while you can get
involved in the conversation on social using #NEWWHU

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Former Player Blog - Kevin Nolan
WHUFc.com

Former midfielder and captain Kevin Nolan made 157 appearances for West Ham
United between 2011 and 2015, scoring 31 goals and leading the Hammers to
promotion in May 2012...

Hello again!

It's been a few months since I left the Club, but you can be sure I've been
keeping a close eye on how the boys have been getting on – and I've been
really impressed. The lads have done absolutely fantastic. It was always a
risk to change over so many players in the summer, but Slaven has come in
and knew exactly how he wanted to go about things, and the lads have really
bought into it.

He had a great core of lads already at the Club when he arrived, which has
obviously helped, but you can see that the new and old players have a great
camaraderie. You can see how well they are playing and how hard they are
working for each other. It is great to see the Club striving forward. When
you look at where we were five years ago when I arrived, the Club was in a
bit of a sorry state and everyone was feeling sorry for themselves.

Since then, everyone has really executed well and we are now in a really
exciting year for everyone associated with the Club – West Ham are playing
great stuff, are fifth in the table and looking comfortable against every
team they face. I'll be watching the game at one of my other former clubs,
Newcastle United, on Saturday, and I am anticipating an exciting 90 minutes.
Newcastle came back well against Manchester United on Tuesday, but I think
they play open and West Ham can exploit them with their counter-attacking
style. As my last club, I want West Ham to do well this year, but I also
want Newcastle to stay up, which I am sure they will do with the quality
they have up there.

Off the pitch, everyone I speak to is really excited about the Stadium move
and where it could take the Club in the future. I still live in Essex and
when I'm out and about it is great to meet fans, shake hands and be thanked
and recognised for the role I have played in recent seasons, scoring my
share of goals and as captain. I've always said how much I enjoyed being
part of such a big Club and that will never change.

Nobes has done a great job as captain this season and I'm delighted that he
has asked me to play in his Testimonial match in March.
I'm really looking forward to it, because when you leave a Club you don't
get the chance to say goodbye and show your appreciation to the fans, your
teammates and the staff for the support you have received. I spent four
really good seasons with West Ham and I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the
Club, so it will be a nice touch to be out there with all the lads again –
the current squad, the boys I played alongside during my four years at the
Club, and loads of other Hammers legends. Although I am not training with a
Club now, I have been keeping myself fit and ticking over. I am doing
regular gym sessions with a lad called Jamie Goldsmith, who was part of the
backroom staff for a couple of seasons at West Ham. I am ready to go, when
the chance comes around to play again.

I am looking forward to seeing you all again for Nobes' Testimonial on 28
March.

Come on you Irons!

Nobby

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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com

Daily Mirror Football Writer Darren Lewis believes West Ham United have
secured one of the bargain buys of the season in Dimitri Payet and feels the
French star can help the Hammers secure a Champions League place.


Dimitri Payet just continues to show what a quality player he is. As far as
West Ham are concerned he is the best player they have signed for a number
of years . He has got to be a bargain and will only get better.

I know he has only been at the club a short time but he has got the
potential to be better than Paolo Di Canio.

He can obviously score goals but he does more than that. He lifts the
players around him and changes games. He has still got several good years
ahead of him and is at the peak of his powers.

He is the kind of game changer that a team competing for a place in the top
four needs. He is a player when a game is going no-where, he can change it.
His level of consistency is outstanding.

A lot of other Premier League clubs will be wishing they had a had player
like Payet. Arsenal have Ozil, but when you consider United paid £25m for
Depay and Liverpool paid £30m for Firmino, you look back at Payet and
realise he is an outstanding footballer.

I would say he is not as good as Tevez because he has played for some big
teams and is world class, but Payet is a very special footballer.

Di Canio was over 30 when he joined the club, Payet is 28 and at the peak of
his powers.

I think he is a contender for Player of the Year. But Jamie Vardy is right
up there and so is Mahrez and Ozil.

But when you consider Payet has been out for two months and has come back
where he left off, why not.

If Payet stays fit I can see West Ham getting into the Champions League. He
reminds me of Suarez and Aguero at Man City. What those players have in
common is that they can galvanise the team with their performances.

When the game is going no-where they can take it by the scruff of the neck
and change it.

The facts speak for themselves. You look at West Ham's position and they are
just one point off the top four.

You look at West Ham's results and the big teams they have beaten and you
realise what his contribution has been.

If you look at the West Ham defence, you realise there is a big difference
to last year. They are much more solid this time around and when they are
not playing part well they are not losing games.

They have conceded three goals in their last eight games and even when they
go behind, they have got the character to come back.

You also look at the strength in depth and even the most die-hard fan would
say the club was very reliant on Andy Carroll. But they can now cope without
him.

Slaven Bilic gets the club and understands them having played for them
before. He understands the fans mentality and when you look at the country
he has managed before, he can cope with pressure.

He is also very good at managing expectations so while it is a fact that the
club are in Champions League contention and nobody can doubt that, he is the
right man to make sure that nobody goes overboard.

He was asked about winning the FA Cup over finishing in the top four last
week, but if the draw is kind then why not. They have obviously got a tough
game up at Liverpool, but if they can get through that they have got every
chance.

It will be a tough game up at Newcastle this weekend. Even though the north
east club have only won one of their last seven games conceding nine goals,
they showed with their performance against Manchester United during the week
that they are not going down without a fight.

What helps West Ham is that most of their best results this season have come
on the road and obviously inspired by Payet, they have got another chance of
getting a result at St James Park.

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United.

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U18s ready to bounce back against Villa
WHUFC.com

Having lost their opening game of 2016, a tough away game at title
challengers Reading, the U18s are looking to bounce back when they host
Aston Villa on Saturday 16 January at Little Heath.
Last time out, a young Claret and Blue side were ousted by an in-form Royals
who secured a 3-0 win to strengthen their title push. Reflecting on the
defeat, the U18's assistant manager Mark Philips said: "I was very
disappointed with the first half. We just didn't seem to come out of the
traps in the first half and it was a strange performance. "In the second
half, we came out fighting and I feel like we were on top for the first 10
to 15 minutes so it was nice to see us have a go."

Despite the disappointing result, Philips is confident his charges will have
learnt their lessons when they meet high-flying Villa on Saturday afternoon.
Philips continued: "Looking at the performance, Saturday was not the
standard that we expect here at West Ham. "We seemed to learn some lessons
in the second half which is important. "Villa away was one of our best
performances of the season. You know that you're always going to get a good,
physical game from Villa."

With the young Hammers currently seventh, five points away from the Elite
Play Off spots, Philips knows it'll be tough to close the gap with just four
games remaining. However he remains confident about his side's chances: "We
haven't lost hope of getting into the top four playoff group. If we can put
a run together in our final fixtures against Villa, Southampton, Swansea and
Brighton then we can still get in there. "It's all well and good saying
that, but we actually need to get out on that pitch and get the points on
the board." The U18s play Aston Villa on Satursday 16 January at Little
Heath, kick off is 12.30pm. Make sure you follow @whufc_official and
whufc.com for updates and reaction.

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From the Terraces - David Croft
WHUFC.com

Sky Sports F1 commentator and Hammers fan David Croft offers his take on
Dimitri Payet and our recent form...

I must confess that I didn't write a letter to Santa this year, just didn't
get the time. But it has to be said that the big man came up trumps over the
Christmas period with tickets to Villa away, Southampton and Liverpool at
home and then Wolves in the cup as well. Four games on the trot, something
of a rarity for me these days and impossible once the F1 season gets
underway on 20 March.

So thank you Santa, what a pressie and a proper away day trip in the mix as
well, although for long periods at Villa and the first half against
Southampton it didn't seem like much of a present. But then Slav made the
changes and brought on Lanzini and Carroll, and the rest as they say, is
history.

On that point, kudos to Slav for making the changes straight away rather
than wasting ten minutes or so just to see if things could work out. Nice to
have a manager that is proactive in that regard. It was the same at
Bournemouth. Dimitri Payet wasn't really influencing the game, until the
Gaffer made a positional change that suddenly gave the midfielder some
freedom to influence the game. And man can that guy influence the game.

There's a lot of talk about Dimitri at the moment, and quite frankly there
should be. Was it just me or was the sight of him pointing to the badge and
celebrating with the fans at Bournemouth just as delightful as the free kick
itself? As a fan, I want to see that as much as I want his match winning
performances to continue. I don't want to be negative, but the temptation
will come. Offers from other clubs, big transfers and bigger wage packets to
go with it. And I'm really sorry, but let's all be a bit selfish here, I
want this guy to stay, and stay at my club for a long, long time.

Interestingly I noticed a thread on Knees Up Mother Brown asking 'Di Canio
or Payet, who's the better player?' It's a great debate and one that I've
been pondering myself for a while.

For me, when Dimitri gets the ball, you can expect that at the moment he's
going to produce something sensible, or from time to time, magical. He does
things that leave defenders flailing and West Ham supporters grinning. But
he pretty much, always does the right thing.

Di Canio meanwhile, was the maverick. Capable of moments of utter genius,
along with some moments of utter madness. From my point of view he could
leave me scratching my head every time he played, often at the mesmerising
skills he possessed, wondering just how he did it? But there were times too
that you were left puzzled as to where the real Paulo had gone that
afternoon or why he felt the need to catch the ball in the Everton box, yeah
I still can't work that one out.

Di Canio or Payet? It's a great question, and the answer probably can't be
given until Dimitri has played a few years for the team. What I'd say at the
moment is that Dimitri for me is way more of a team player and that's a
great asset to go along with his incredible skill. He fits in to this team
and importantly, this team fits well around him. In the same way that the
Mercedes Formula 1 team is a terrific fit for Lewis Hamilton. He gets the
freedom allowed by the team, and way more freedom than he ever had at
McLaren, and in return Hamilton has delivered two world titles in the last
two years. He couldn't do that without the support of the whole team and F1
is as much of a team sport as football when you break it down. But the team
need his genius as the icing on the cake and that's why they're such a good
fit.

Same with West Ham and Dimitri Payet, a player that every single Premier
League team would want in their side, and I include our next visitors to the
Boleyn Ground Manchester City in that sentence. It's a big claim I know, but
I'm not wrong and it staggers me that nobody else picked up on his talents
before we did. It's not like he didn't perform in France. It staggers me,
but I'm not complaining for a minute, I'm just enjoying the fact that we did
sign him. Loving the moment as my sons and I stand up and sing "We've got
Payet, Dimitri Payet, I just don't think you'd understand" I even caught my
eight-year-old singing it in the house the other day.

Payet or Paulo? I loved Paulo, but I think Dimitri has the potential to be
even better although maybe the true test of his potential legendary status
at West Ham is the day we ask 'Who's better? Dimitri Payet or Trevor
Brooking?' Now there's a discussion………

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United

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Newcastle v West Ham
KO 15:00
15 January 2016
Last updated at 11:39
BBC.co.uk

Barclays Premier League
Venue: St James' Park Date: Saturday, 16 January

TEAM NEWS

New signings Jonjo Shelvey and Henri Saivet could both make their Newcastle
debuts against West Ham. Papiss Cisse has had surgery on a groin injury and
is facing a further month on the sidelines, having missed the last five
matches. West Ham are without Manuel Lanzini, Diafra Sakho and Andy Carroll,
who suffered a hamstring injury in midweek and will be out for four to six
weeks. However, Victor Moses, Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro Zarate are all fit
to return.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Conor McNamara: "'They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger - and it
did nearly kill me.' That's how Steve McClaren recounts his duel with Slaven
Bilic at Wembley in 2007.
"Croatia denied England a place at Euro 2008 and covered themselves in
glory. McClaren, infamously, covered himself with a brolly.
"Newcastle secured their survival in May by beating West Ham. Now, after
five games without a win, they are once again in danger of being washed away
by the relegation tide.
"Regardless of the strength of downpour - whether it rains or floods - you
certainly won't see McClaren reach for an umbrella during this game."
Twitter: @ConorMcNamaraIE

WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "Are we favourites now to finish in the top
four? We are not. But nobody can take the hope and the belief out of you.
"My philosophy in life is that there is nothing wrong with being confident,
optimistic or positive. For me, on the contrary, you have to be like that if
you want to get any chance to make it, whatever you do in your life. "If you
go to take a driving test and you say 'I can't do it', of course you're
going to fail. If you're approaching a girl in a nightclub and you think
she's going to tell you off and all that, no chance."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

After the stick I've been getting from West Ham fans over my predictions, I
should probably go for them to win 8-0. In the past few seasons I have
annoyed Southampton and Swansea fans by tipping them to lose, but I have
never had supporters chanting my name over a prediction before, like the
Hammers fans were doing at the end of their win at Bournemouth on Tuesday.
Probably the only way I can upset anybody this time is by saying it is going
to be a draw, so that is what I'm going for. Prediction: 1-1

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
Newcastle have only lost one of the last 12 home league meetings (W6, D5).
West Ham have won two of the last three encounters, including a 2-0 triumph
at Upton Park in September.
Newcastle United
Newcastle have drawn a league-high five matches at home this season.
The Magpies scored more than twice in a Premier League game this season for
only the second time against Manchester United on Tuesday night.
Georginio Wijnaldum's eight Newcastle goals have all been scored at home.
West Ham United
West Ham have won their last three league matches and are unbeaten in their
last eight (D5).
Their win at Bournemouth on Tuesday was their first in six away games (D3,
L2).
Only Leicester and Arsenal have won more away league games than West Ham's
five this season.
Dimitri Payet has scored or set up more goals for West Ham in all
competitions this season than any other player (six goals, five assists).

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Hendrie joins Southend on temporary deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 15th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's reserve defender Stephen Hendrie has joined League One
Southend United on a month's loan. The former Hamilton full back cost West
Ham £1million when moving south at the end of last season but has failed to
break into Slaven Bilic's first team set-up. And it was confirmed this
afternoon that Hendrie has become the latest Hammer to make the short
journey down the A13 in order to join the Shrimpers. "I'm absolutely
delighted," said Southend boss Phil Brown. "He comes here making his English
debut, having not played first team football since he left Hamilton
Academical. "I spoke to his former manager, Alex Neil, last night about
him, to ask about the type character we're bringing in. He says he's a solid
character, reliable, got bags of energy and probably his biggest asset will
be his legs, as he can run all day. "He brings a lovely left foot to the
party, as Ben Coker does, so he's got a great opportunity to get his career
going in England at Southend United."
Speaking about his temporary switch, Hendrie - who featured for West Ham in
their pre-season friendly win at Southend last July - added: "I'm just happy
to be here, get some games under my belt and fire us up the league."

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Slaven Bilic: One look at Dimitri Payet and I wanted to sign him - and now
the West Ham fans love him too
SLAVEN BILIC 34 minutes ago0 comments
Evening Standard

Anyone who watched the TV highlights of our 3-1 win at Bournemouth on
Tuesday night, whether they are West Ham fans or not, will surely have
appreciated the special talent of Dimitri Payet.
When I came to West Ham it was my number one priority for the club to sign
him from Marseille – but my knowledge of him goes back a few more years.
First and foremost, my staff and I are football fans. We watch matches on TV
from all over the world because we love the game. Marseille are one of the
biggest clubs in Europe and as a manager I wanted to see how they played.
Even before that, when he was at Lille, I watched them in the French league
and I noticed this player who was swaying, dancing around the ball, taking
responsibility, making a difference.
I also took note that, although he was an individual talent, he was also
looking for a pass. When I was at Besiktas I wanted to sign him but it was
impossible. When I came here though it happened – and it happened quickly. I
had no doubt he would be able to play in the Premier League. The French
League is as physical as the football here. Of course you are never one
hundred per cent sure how they will adapt to a new culture, different
environment but as far as the football went, I knew he would be OK. When he
is in our team, his team-mates are better. You have some players who, no
matter how good they are, depend on the team to create something, then
demand the ball and try to do the job. Dimitri is different. You just have
to give him the ball – and move. Then he will make all of you better. Can
you imagine how important Dimitri is for a player like Aaron Cresswell for
example? Aaron is an offensive full-back but he needs someone further
forward to keep the ball for a few seconds so he can go on an overlap. If he
has confidence that his team-mate will hold onto the ball, then he can go.
If he is not sure, he may not risk it. It's not just about the free-kicks or
goals people will watch on TV. It's more about the bread and butter things
Dimitri does which are so important for a team.
Dimitri was doing similar things at Marseille but here he feels he has more
responsibility, he's the one. I think he likes it, he enjoys it — and we
enjoy him. In the dressing-room he is good, he doesn't talk a lot but it is
special when your team recognises you as a special player. The West Ham fans
love him also. He says he has never had a song about him before and the
reception he had when he came back from injury meant a lot to him.
Sometimes, when one player is given all the credit, it can create problems
with others but he is not looking for that – he's good with everyone. In
training also, he's not one of those who thinks 'I am the star, I'm not
going to run.' No, when we play five-a-side, he wants to win. When he makes
a mistake in training, something which doesn't match his high standards, he
goes crazy, he is angry with himself. Luka Modric is also like this. At
Bournemouth at half-time, you could see he wasn't happy with himself. He
wanted to do more – and he did. We are all glad he is back fit and in the
team.

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Our best ever January signings?
KUMB.com
Postby Up the Junction on Thu Jan 14, 2016 8:16 pm

The current January transfer window was introduced in 2002/03. Being a
little more constructive, here's your full list of January signings since
the new system was adopted; I suggest we start at the penultimate name from
2006's list and work out who comes second...

2015
Doneil Henry
(Nene followed mid-February)

2014
Antonio Nocerino (loan)
Marco Borriello (loan)
Roger Johnson (loan)

2013
Wellington Paulista (loan)
Joe Cole
Marouane Chamakh (loan)

2012
Ravel Morrison
Ricardo Vaz Te
Nicky Maynard
George John (loan)

2011
Robbie Keane (loan)
Demba Ba
Gary O'Neil
Wayne Bridge (loan)

2010
Benni McCarthy
Mido (loan)
Ilan (loan)

2009
Savio Nsereko

2007
Matthew Upson
Kepa Blanco
Lucas Neill
Nigel Quashie
Calum Davenport
Luis Boa Morte

2006
Lionel Scaloni (loan)
Dean Ashton
Yaniv Katan

2004
Seb Carole
Adam Nowland
Nigel Reo-Coker
John Harley
Andy Melville
Rami Shabaan

2003
David Noble
Rufus Brevett
Les Ferdinand

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Newcastle v West Ham preview: Jonjo Shelvey set for debut
By Simeon Gholam
Last Updated: 15/01/16 4:13pm
SSN

Jonjo Shelvey and Henri Saivet could make their debuts for Newcastle when
West Ham visit St James' Park on Saturday. The two sides will head into the
clash with very different ambitions, as West Ham attempt to force their way
into the top four and Newcastle try and climb out of the relegation zone.

Slaven Bilic will be hoping that Dimitri Payet, who scored both goals as
they beat Newcastle 2-0 in September, will continue the fine form he showed
in their win at Bournemouth in midweek following his return from injury.

Team news

Shelvey and Saivet are in the Newcastle squad, and they could be joined by
Rolando Aarons (foot) and striker Emmanuel Riviere (knee) after both played
for the club's U21s on Thursday evening. Steven Taylor (hamstring) is back
in training, but Siem de Jong will be sidelined for up to two weeks after
being rushed to hospital with an eye injury suffered in training. Papiss
Cisse could miss eight weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a groin
injury.

Andy Carroll will miss West Ham's trip to his former club. The striker
suffered a hamstring injury at Bournemouth on Tuesday night and will be out
for four to six weeks, joining Manuel Lanzini and Diafra Sakho (both thigh)
on the sidelines. But Victor Moses is fit after six weeks out with a
hamstring problem while Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro Zarate have shaken off
the knocks which kept them out in midweek.

Opta stats

West Ham have won just one of their last 12 Premier League trips to St
James' Park (W1 D5 L6).

The Hammers have failed to score in three of their last four trips to play
Newcastle in the top flight, but the Mapgies have failed to score in five of
their last seven league games against West Ham.

Newcastle are winless in five league fixtures (D2 L3), their longest run
since failing to win any of their opening eight fixtures this season.

West Ham are the only Premier League side yet to concede in the final five
minutes of a game this season, while no side have scored more than them in
this period (5 - level with Man City and Crystal Palace).

All eight of Georginio Wijnaldum's goals for Newcastle have been scored at
St James' Park.

Merson's prediction

At the moment Newcastle are just not getting the rub of the green. To score
three goals and not win at home is disappointing but they are still right in
the fight to stay up. I know Sunderland have gone above them but with
Swansea getting beat, Newcastle have an excellent chance of staying up.

However, I really like what Bilic is doing at West Ham. Newcastle have to
stop Payet. If they can find a way to stop him then they will get a result,
but if they don't then he will rip them to absolute shreds.

Newcastle are playing well but the problem for them is that I can't see them
stopping Payet. He's up there with Mesut Ozil in my opinion and he's 100 per
cent the signing of the summer. For West Ham to get him was brilliant. There
has got to be a lot of big clubs turning around to their scouting system and
asking 'how's he not playing for us'. I'm going for West Ham to keep their
run going with a 2-1 away win and Enner Valencia scoring the first goal.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2

Betting

Newcastle are 11/8 with Sky Bet with West Ham 19/10 and the draw trading at
12/5. There have been three goals or more in one of the teams' last seven
meetings so under 2.5 goals should appeal at 8/11. Wijnaldum to open the
scoring for the Toon is 15/2, while Payet, who netted in the midweek win at
Bournemouth, to score anytime for the visitors is 5/2.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic optimistic on West Ham's Champions League chances
By Michael Kelleher
Last Updated: 15/01/16 10:37am
SSN

Slaven Bilic believes positive thinking holds the key to West Ham qualifying
for the Champions League for the first time. The Hammers are one point
behind fourth-placed Tottenham after defeating Bournemouth 3-1 on Tuesday,
to secure their third consecutive league win. Bilic has been keen to play
down talk of a top-four finish this season but admits, with the right
attitude, anything is possible for a team who could set a club record of
nine Premier League games unbeaten at Newcastle on Saturday. "If you ask me
if we are thinking about it realistically and starting to be a little bit
big-headed about the Champions League, no, we are not," he said. "We know
that we are West Ham and we are enjoying the season and we are respecting
every opponent without being afraid of them, and that's it. "Are we
favourites now to finish in the top four? We are not. But nobody can take
the hope and the belief out of you.
"My philosophy in life is that there is nothing wrong with being confident,
optimistic or positive. For me, on the contrary, you have to be like that if
you want to get any chance to make it, whatever you do in your life. "If you
go to take a driving test and you say 'I can't do it', of course you're
going to fail. If you got on a date and you're approaching a girl in a
nightclub and you think she's going to tell you off and all that, no chance.
"But if you are positive, you have a chance. For the Champions League, or
whatever - top 10, or staying up. Sunderland believe they can stay up. You
have to do it, without that there is no chance."

The game against Newcastle comes after the Magpies showed impressive spirit
to twice come from behind to draw 3-3 with Manchester United on Tuesday.
That performance has not gone unnoticed by Bilic and he believes they will
provide a stern test this weekend. "They are definitely improving," added
Bilic. "They had a slow start; a new team, a new manager, new everything.
"They are a massive club which in recent seasons had slow starts or
difficult seasons. But they have improved; they have a good squad, great
individuals, and great strikers. "They made a good comeback against
Manchester United and they are on a high, so I expect a difficult game at a
great stadium."

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Lawro: 'I have to take off my hat to West Ham'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 15, 2016 in News
C and H

The BBC's Mark Lawrenson has been getting plenty of stick from the club, the
chairman and West Ham fans but he says it is all good fun and he is pleased
they continue to prove him wrong. That said the stubborn fool refuses to
predict a win this weekend so goes for a draw instead! "After the stick I've
been getting from West Ham fans over my predictions, I should probably go
for them to win 8-0." "In the past few seasons I have annoyed Southampton
and Swansea fans by tipping them to lose, but I have never had supporters
chanting my name over a prediction before, like the Hammers fans were doing
at the end of their win at Bournemouth on Tuesday." "It is all good fun, and
I am really pleased they have continued to prove me wrong." "I thought their
results would fall away after their good start, much like they did under Sam
Allardyce last season, but they have picked up after a wobble where they did
not win for eight games from the end of October." "I thought they would slip
down the table but instead they have won their past four games in the league
and FA Cup, and I have to take my hat off to them."

"Newcastle were a bit unlucky not to get a draw at Watford in the FA Cup and
stuck at it to pick up a point against Manchester United on Tuesday, so it
seems Magpies boss Steve McClaren has found a way to get a response from his
players after their poor form over Christmas." "Taking all of that into
consideration, probably the only way I can upset anybody this time is by
saying it is going to be a draw, so that is what I'm going for."

Lawro's prediction: 1-1

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Hammers linked with Real Madrid starlet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

17-year-old Martin Odegaard has been linked with a loan move to West Ham on
social media in recent days. The young Real Madrid starlet has recently been
linked with Liverpool with reports that Real Madrid rejected a permanent
move for the promising attacking midfielder who has been tipped for the top.
Madrid's president Florentino Perez has previously said he is adamant that
the player stays at Madrid until he is ready for first-team football.
Odegaard made his debut for Madrid in last season's 7-3 win at home to
Getafe on the final day of the La Liga campaign, but he has not featured for
the first team this season The Norweigan joined Real Madrid a year ago but
his one run out for the club's first-team involved coming on a substitute
for Ronaldo no less. Real Madrid have been slapped with a two-window
transfer ban this week, similar to the judgement passed down to rivals
Barcelona although they are appealing. Whether the ban could mean that a
loan will be less likely or there is any truth in this internet rumour we
don't know but the kid looks like a future star from the same Norwegian
stable as Martin Samuelson. We can all dream!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons admit late move for defender possible
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham are seriously watching developments between Everton and long term
target Sam Byram who is heading for talks on personal terms with the
Toffees. Reports that the mersey-siders have seen a bid accepted by Leeds
are correct but the deal rests on Byram's advisers getting the best possible
deal for the young right back. And this morning – despite remaining
reluctant to declare their hand – the Irons are clearly seriously
considering a late move for the 22 year old. Everton may be keen to score a
point or two over the Hammers by landing the player after Angelo Ogbonna
snubbed their late move for him before joining us last summer. But the game
is far from up despite the fact the Irons would have preferred to get Byram
on a free in the summer. Our senior source gave a very guarded answer when
we asked whether a late bid was on the cards saying only: "Possibly – can
say no more!" That suggests that moves have either started or afoot.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Malaga to receive funds for Zarate bid
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Malaga owner Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani has confirmed that Nordin Amrabat will
leave the club this month, with Watford his likely destination. This would
free up £6.7m in funds to allow a bid for Mauro Zarate. The Watford Observer
claims the Hornets are ready to meet the winger's €8.8m release clause, and
the owner concedes he is powerless to deny the player dream move to the
Premier League. He is quoted as saying: " I want to clarify some things
about Nordin Amrabat, I'm not and [I] will not think of selling the player,
but everyone must understand this."[He] told me 'this is my dream! "I can't
say to him 'you can't go'. We are human beings. I hope everyone knows that
very well." ClaretandHugh have been told whilst there have been no firm bids
for the Argentinian, the club is ready to listen to bids for him. Malaga
have long been linked with Zarate who thus far in his 11 year career has
moved either permanently or on loan eight times. A senior insider told
ClaretandHugh: "There has been no official approach from anywhere" that was
quickly followed by the source adding: "It wouldn't be a great surprise to
be honest were we to get one later on in the window. Should bids come in
then we will certainly be ready to listen."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Supermac says best years in our history lie ahead
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
By the great Frankie Mac

I've waited a lot of years to see what we are seeing at West Ham at the
moment…these are the best of times and what's even better is that I
genuinely believe they are here to stay!
I said at the start of the season we can finish in the top four and I
believe that is what's going to happen. It's fantastic to see the football
we are playing. I'm pleased that Sam Allardyce has gone and that an honest
man who understands this club and the fans is at the helm. Like everyone
else I'm loving Slaven Bilic. The excuse-making, respecting the point and
all that rubbish is gone, instead we have players who can play and a real
future around the corner. Nobody can kid a West Ham fan – they are far too
sharp and the vast majority knew what was happening last year was all wrong.
They are now getting what they have waited for and there's no group of fan
in the country ho deserve it more. At their very best the Irons are playing
tremendous stuff and that's down to the boss who has produced such an
incredible turnaround in five months. The best thing he did was to get out
of that European qualifying tournament as quickly as he did. He didn't know
the squad or the players but has shown all his quality in bringing them to
this point. Now here we are having sold nearly 40,000 season tickets for
next season – I'll tell you now: We are gonna be bigger than Spurs …..f..k
em! Dimi Payet of course has been utterly extraordinary – what a player but
there's quality right through the squad and I really believe we are looking
forward to the best years in our history. Like I say there's no fans in the
country ho deserve it more or who have waited as long! I have one lingering
worry but I'll be covering that in a separate piece later in the day
although it certainly doesn't take the shine off what I believe will be a
fantastic season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy admits his Payet fear
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive

ClaretandHugh's top analyst Leroy Rosenior has admitted he feared Dimtri
Payet may not be the same player again after the shocking 'tackle' by
Everton's James McCarthy. He said: "It was a shocker but his performance
against Bournemouth was incredible and I am incredibly relieved that he has
come back better than ever – it's not always the case after an injury like
that. "He showed such confidence and despite that awful challenge remains
happy to dance around players – it's magnificent to watch. He looks even
better than before the Everton match. "Slaven Bilic said that he makes every
other player play better and that is totally spot on. Enner Valencia showed
a an atttitude we haven't seen before and I think that was down to Dimi.
"Valencia wanted to show what he could do …and how! His goals were superb
and it won't be long before Sakho is back which will make another enormous
difference. Payet is the first name on the team sheet of course – an
extraordinary player – but the competition for places elsewhere is brilliant
and the sky is the limit for this club."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jack Sullivan's column: We may get a loan in!
January 14, 2016
WestHamWay.co.uk
Jack Sullivan

Wolves was a game that I'm sure most people will forget, as the 1-0 shows.
We played averagely and struggled to breakdown a very defensive Wolves team.
The goal from Jelavic was fantastic and I was pleased to see him score.
Even with my high hopes, the Bournemouth game didn't start great for us,
with AC going off and also going 1-0 down within the first 20 minutes.
Personally I thought we really started to play some good football for the
last 15 minutes of the first half, putting Bournemouth under some sort of
pressure! The second half was completely different, we really started to
take the game to the Cherries. I felt the game started to turn in our
favour as we started to run at their defence. The free kick that got us the
goal was an example of this, as Antonio ran very directly towards goal;
which is something I love about his game. Of course you need real quality
to finish from a free kick and we know Payet has got bags of it. He drew us
level and during the game I think you could see how much we had missed the
man. I believe the stat is we score 1.3 more goals with him in the side. I
was also over the moon for Enner when he scored from Payet's assist and
again scoring one of the most unbelievable free kicks. I'm hoping this is
just the start for Enner and that he has finally adapted to the Prem. I
hope he can get a few more for us on Saturday!!
As I've said before this window will be a slow one. I think this shows how
much the club has come on, as there is no need for panic buys with such
great depth in the squad! We may just loan in, but as I've said we are
looking towards the future and working towards some deals in the summer with
our move to the OS! Everyone should be feeling like a happy hammer at the
moment, as we are 1 point off 4th and getting more and more injuries back
each day, with Reid and Moses almost ready to play! I'm hoping we can carry
on, so it is a real fitting farewell the the Bolyen.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Everton and West Ham are battling for his signature, so is Leeds United
full-back Sam Byram ready to make the step up to the Premier League?
By AMITAI WINEHOUSE FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 14:21, 15 January 2016 | UPDATED: 14:21, 15 January 2016
Daily Mail

There was a sense that Sam Byram would be leaving Leeds United from the
minute talks over a new contract broke down in 2015. At that point, Italian
owner Massimo Cellino offered Byram a reduced wage over a longer period of
time, a deal the player was never likely to accept. His rapidly expiring
contract has become an ongoing issue for Leeds to deal with. Everton have
now had a reported £3.7 million bid accepted for the 22-year-old. West Ham
are aiming to scupper that move and capture Byram themselves. With no
Premier League experience to his name, will the attacking full-back cut it
in the top flight?
Byram's style has always been defined by his willingness to get forward and
affect the game in the attacking third. For example, Byram has contributed
the second highest number of key passes - 23 to Northern Ireland
international Stuart Dallas's 26 - in Leeds' squad. This is despite spending
a significant chunk of the season on the sidelines or being used as a
substitute due to his contractual situation. Dallas has eked 2,072 minutes
out of 26 appearances, while Byram has only played for 1,467 minutes in his
22 games, which makes his chance creation even more impressive. He is quick
without being rapid, good at dribbling and able to pick out a pass. There
are under-appreciated parts of Byram's game, too - he is better in the air
than most players who end up playing out wide. One issue with his game is
that he has been shuffled around far too much positionally over the last few
seasons. He broke through as a right-back but spent the majority of 2015
playing on the right wing. On the few occasions he has been moved back to
full-back, he has looked slightly less assured in reading the play than he
did when he debuted. However, there are doubts over how much quality
coaching Byram has received in the midst of Leeds' continual managerial
churn, an issue he is unlikely to face at a stable club such as Everton or
West Ham. He scored his first professional goal on 28 August in the 3–0
League Cup second-round victory over Oxford United.
It is an easy and lazy comparison to make, but it would not be beyond the
realms of possibility to suggest Byram will follow a similar positional path
to Gareth Bale. It is increasingly clear that Byram can be a huge influence
in front of goal. He has scored three goals in Leeds' last six games - one
was an instinctive poacher's effort, another was with his head and the last
was perfectly placed in the corner from the edge of the area. One major
issue for Everton this season has been defensive consistency, and the recent
news that Seamus Coleman is likely to be out until February means there
would be an opportunity for Byram to make the right-back berth his own. West
Ham are also lacking quality in that position. James Tomkins has filled in
well on the right side of defence, but there is little doubt that the
26-year-old is naturally a central defender. He is less inclined to push
forward than expected from a modern full-back.
Further forward, Everton seem slightly better staffed and it is questionable
that he would overhaul the likes of Gerard Deulofeu. Roberto Martinez has,
however, previously shown a commitment to longer term projects, and there is
no reason why a six-month adaptation period would not be afforded to Byram.
In my opinion, Byram clearly has the talent to step up to the Premier
League. That opinion is shared by Leeds head coach Steve Evans, who said on
Friday: 'He's a gifted young man, and in the event that he goes and plays in
the Premier League then he will become a regular in the Premier League.'
Whether a manager would trust a 22-year-old ahead of a player with
top-flight experience is another question entirely. Martinez even hinted at
that on Friday: 'He is a young man with a lot of experience of the
Championship but his next step needs to be a good step for Sam and his
family.' He is, however, Leeds' highest appearance maker in the current
squad. Byram has played 130 times in the league for the club between the
ages of 18 and 22. It is hard to imagine a Premier League side being able to
acquire another player at such a young age and for such a low price, who has
such a vast amount of league experience.

What is Byram's personality like?
Ask anyone at Leeds United and they will tell you that Byram is a delight to
work with, from academy staff to managers and head coaches. Evans's reign
has essentially been defined by Byram's contract dispute, but he revealed:
'I'll give Sam a big hug and a big kiss. He's been fantastic for me.' Byram
is a personal favourite of club legend Eddie Gray, one of the most talented
wingers to play in the British game who remains closely tied to Leeds. Stood
on the touchline at Queens Park Rangers in November, with Byram having not
appeared due to his contractual situation, Gray put it simply: 'Why is the
kid not playing?'

How do the fans view Byram?
Like most players who come through a club's youth development system, Byram
is fondly regarded by the fans. There have been hints of ill feeling the
longer his contract dispute has rolled on, especially on social media after
the news broke that a deal had been agreed with Everton. However, it has
never been from more than a few fans. It was symbolic that at the game
against Wolves, when Byram returned to score two, the fans never stopped
singing the player's name. As he was interviewed on television after the
game, the chorus of 'One Sam Byram' was deafening, and he ran over to the
fans to hand over his shirt afterwards. There has mainly been anger that
Byram is being allowed to leave for a reported fee of £3.7m and that the
club got itself into this position in the first place. While stories like
this are always difficult to unpick, there has always been an insistence
that the player's agent sat down with Cellino with a real interest in
staying at Leeds. The two fell out terribly over the initial contract offer
and the situation has never recovered, hence the cut-price move. Former
manager Brian McDermott summed it up in 2013 when asked about a potential £3
million bid: 'For which boot?'

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Two players plus cash for West Ham target? Former star returning?
Date: 15th January 2016 at 2:48 pm
Written by: James Pearson | Comments (0)
foreverwestham.com

Slaven Bilic has spoken a few times about the transfer window and how his
West Ham side won't be seeing many players coming in, even suggesting there
is a 99% chance that we won't be seeing any new signings. However, we have
been reportedly interested in one young player throughout this window and it
seems we may be forced into making a move now.

Leeds United full back Sam Byram has been linked to a few clubs this window.
But last night it was reported that Everton have a had a bid accepted by
Leeds. This may force Bilic's hand into dipping into the market to secure
the services of a promising talent.

The Guardian this morning wrote that Newcastle and West Ham are interested,
and we are prepared to offer two young players and cash in exchange for
Byram, who is supposedly a West Ham, hoping that the players will be more
enticing than Everton's £3.7 million that has been agreed.

Who these players are is yet to be revealed, but judging by the fact that
Leeds have accepted £3.7m million, its likely they won't be first team
players. Byram is a player that could be extremely useful for West Ham, with
Carl Jenkinson signing a new Arsenal deal last summer. Jenkinson has been in
and out of Bilic's first team plans, suggesting that the manager may be
looking at alternatives for the long term. Tomkins is doing a solid job in
that position at the moment, but Byram is a player that we won't want to
miss out on in the long run.

Ravel Morrison
Could Ravel Morrison be returning to The Boleyn? There are reports in the
last few days that we may be interested in bring Ravel Morrison back on a
short term loan deal. Morrison has undeniable talent, but is hit and miss. I
would be shocked if Bilic did decide to bring him back because of the
trouble that surrounds him, especially with the amount of attacking talent
that are playing well this season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham paying £10.7m for Dimitri Payet is the signing of the season... the
Frenchman has inspired a remarkable transformation
West Ham may boast the signing of Dimitri Payet is this season's best
The Frenchman joined the club from Marseille in a £10.7million deal
Payet has helped transform the Hammers into European chasers
By ADAM SHERGOLD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 01:47, 15 January 2016 | UPDATED: 03:07, 15 January 2016

The Olympic Stadium in Stratford looks pretty desolate against the backdrop
of slate grey skies and intermittent sleet when you pass it on a winter's
morning. But come August it will once again be a vibrant place, bedecked in
West Ham's colours of claret and blue, that glorious spirit of 2012 revived.
Supporters will flock from miles around to watch Slaven Bilic's equally
vibrant team, challenging in the upper reaches of the Barclays Premier
League table and - who knows - even in the Champions League. And as they
clack through the turnstiles they should look up and see - 30ft tall, gazing
out proudly over the east London skyline - their club's new poster boy
Dimitri Payet. For seldom has a signing caused such a dramatic uplift in a
team's fortunes. Seldom has any player become so integral so quickly. And
seldom has a £10.7million investment looked like such a bargain. There can
be no doubt that Payet, brought in by Bilic from Marseille at the end of
June, is the Premier League's signing of the season. You might make a case
for Petr Cech at Arsenal, but the true dynamos of their title challenge lie
further forward on the field. Dele Alli at Tottenham? Well, the deal was
actually secured back in the January so that doesn't really count. It's
Payet that has inspired the remarkable transformation in West Ham's
fortunes. A transformation that sees them, against all expectations, just a
point off the Champions League places ahead of their Saturday visit to
Newcastle United. Let's consider the stats. With Payet in the team, the
Hammers have won eight of 14 matches, scoring a total of 28 goals. Their win
percentage stands at a muscular 57.1 per cent.
Now compare that to the seven matches when Payet wasn't in the side when he
suffered ankle ligament damage against Everton in early November. Just one
win from those seven, a mere five goals scored. A paltry win percentage of
14.3. There is nothing coincidental about West Ham recording three wins on
the bounce - against Liverpool, Wolves in the FA Cup and Bournemouth - since
Payet returned to full fitness. The 28-year-old France international brings
so much more than the six goals and five assists contributed in claret and
blue so far. He supplies that spark, a certain galvanising effect that
produced another 10 per cent from his team-mates. Bilic summarised it nicely
after Payet curled home a lovely free-kick on his return to the starting
line-up in the 3-1 win at Bournemouth on Tuesday night. 'It was a team win
but Payet made the difference,' Bilic said. 'West Ham fans love that kind of
player with a bit of magic and he has got more than a bit. 'But it is not
only about his quality. He is deciding games, he is keeping the ball and he
is doing the things which are very hard in football. 'He is taking the whole
team 20 yards up the pitch without kicking the ball and that is important.
He is also making all the players around him better.' Bilic has taken Payet
under his wing like a son. The Croat was absolutely despondent when he
suffered his injury - describing it as a 'massive blow' - and West Ham
crashed 4-1 at Tottenham in their next game. Five successive draws followed
as they struggled to replace that missing impetus delivered by Payet. There
has inevitably been an upturn in mood and form since their talisman returned
to fitness. The Upton Park faithful adore him too, as witnessed by the
wonderful ovation he received on his return against Liverpool a fortnight
ago. He's almost ranked in their affections as highly as Paolo di Canio and
Carlos Tevez. And that's just off the back of seven months. Continue this
trajectory in the coming years and he'll go down in legend. These are
historic times for West Ham. Their move to the Olympic Stadium is imminent,
representing a move to the next level. And with their inspired signing of
Payet, they have a team ready to meet that challenge.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham NOT getting big-headed about being in the Champions League frame
insists Slaven Bilic
22:57, 14 JAN 2016 UPDATED 23:30, 14 JAN 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
The Hammers are a point behind fourth-placed Spurs and could make it nine
games unbeaten this weekend — but the boss is refusing to get carried away
The Mirror

Slaven Bilic insists West Ham are not becoming big-headed about moving into
Champions League contention. The Irons are a point behind fourth-placed
Tottenham and could set a club record of nine Premier League games unbeaten
at Newcastle on Saturday. However, with last season's collapse after a
similarly impressive start still very much on the minds of those at Upton
Park, Bilic is refusing to get carried away. Asked if qualifying for
Europe's top club competition was a possibility, the Hammers boss replied:
"I've no problem saying that but we're not thinking that way. "The league is
so tight, I would say definitely we have a chance of getting there. "I know
it's very tight but all I can say is we're not afraid of that and we're
going to do everything to win every game until the end of the season. "If
you ask me whether we are thinking about it realistically and starting to be
a little bit big-headed about the Champions League, no, we are not. "We know
that we are West Ham and enjoying the season and we are respecting every
opponent we play without being afraid of them – and that's it."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham plot late move to gazump Everton in race for Leeds ace Sam Byram
WEST HAM have not given up hope of signing Sam Byram from Leeds despite
Everton already having a bid accepted.
By EXPRESS SPORT
PUBLISHED: 00:03, Fri, Jan 15, 2016

Roberto Martinez is hoping to discuss terms with the talented 22-year-old,
who can operate in any position on the right, and make him his latest young
signing after having a bid accepted this afternoon. The fee would start at
round £3m and rise. But West Ham are also seeking to lure Byram to the
Premier League and will look to offer him a starting role. Leeds have been
offered cash plus two unnamed players for Byram by the Hammers. Byram told
Leeds he would not sign a new deal and, given that he is out of contract
this summer, Leeds chairman Massimo Cellino has chosen to bank the bid
rather than risking a tribunal setting a lower fee. Aston Villa have also
bid, but Martinez's track record of developing young talent could swing it.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison To Get Another Chance at the Boleyn
verywestham.blogspot.co.uk

No he's not - at least not as a permanent part of the playing staff! Since
his announced inclusion for the Mark Noble testimonial, the rumours have
grown regarding a possible return to West Ham for Ravel Morrison. Currently
stranded at Lazio, where he has once again failed to settle in, Raveldo
needs an out and many observers (e.g. Footballfancast) believe that could be
Slaven Bilic's West Ham!

However, such speculation is silenced by any logical review of the facts.
Slaven Bilic has spoken candidly about the need for "harmony" in his squad
(ask Morgan whazhisname!). Moreover, with the current riches in terms of
attacking midfielders, Bilic simply doesn't need Morrison, who even at his
best wouldn't get within an asses roar of this much improved Hammers side
due to the presence of Payet, Lanzini et al.

Bilic is far more likely to gamble upon more game time for the eager,
focused and disciplined Josh Cullen, who has been skirting the margins of a
first team start for weeks now. It's simply tantalisingly exciting for
Hammers fans to reflect upon the effect training alongside Payet and Lanzini
is having for Cullen and Reece Oxford.

West Ham are unlikely to gamble in this window, unless a decent striker
becomes available (err NOT Chaz Austin, quoted at £12M with only 5 months
left on his contract and only having played once since November). Meanwhile
the Morrison speculation continues to attract the attentions of the poorly
informed. Quite simply, despite multiple opportunities, Ravel blew it!

In an effort to finally communicate the true odds of a Ravel return we
contacted everybody's favourite bookmaker - Paddy Poormaker - to seek odds
on a Morrison return. After a delay caused by much guffawing they offered us
the following odds;



We think legendary Doors frontman Jim Douglas Morrison is a decent bet,
especially given new evidence to support the fact that he faked his own
death to escape the twenty-plus paternity suits he was facing at the time of
his disappearance. He has apparently been spotted playing for a second tier
team in Senegal and if he's one tenth as useful as Cheikidh Kouyate we would
love him!

Much less attractive, is the possibility of Van 'the grumpy man' Morrison
joining the Hammers. However, his recurrent difficulties in getting on with
anybody would make him a poor investment. Meanwhile, the Baggies James
Morrison is a decent Premiership performer but simply to 'average' for the
current West Ham side!

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West Ham offer two players plus cash to trump Everton's Byram bid
HITC
Dan Coombs

West Ham are attempting to sign Leeds United's Sam Byram from under
Everton's noses. West Ham have made a late bid to try and sign Sam Byram
from Leeds United, report The Express.
The report states the Hammers have offered two unnamed players plus cash, in
an attempt to try and trump Everton's £3.7 million bid. Earlier this month
we speculated upon three players Leeds should potentially demand in exchange
for the 22-year-old. Jack Sullivan, son of West Ham co-owner David Sullivan,
posted this cryptic tweet soon after Everton's accepted bid for Byram was
reported. Byram was voted PFA player of the month in the Championship for
December, winning 82 per cent of the vote, after scoring three goals for
Leeds, playing in an advanced role. He has been at the club since turning
professional, but has been unable to agree a new contract. Now it seems he
has a big decision to make between Everton and West Ham, if Leeds accept the
offer from the East London side.

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Dimitri Payet jokes about West Ham fans' song, says it's the next big single
HITC
Tim Poole

The West Ham playmaker is in an understandably good mood. Dimitri Payet's
'love affair' with the West Ham United fans has continued, with the
28-year-old joking that the supporters' song about him is 'the next big
single,' according to the club's official website. The Frenchman says he is
keen to repay the fans' support with hard work, goals and assists. And he
feels the West Ham faithful's Payet song is going to be a hit. He said on
'Chadwell Chatter': "The love affair with the fans continues and all the
better for it! You show me your love and I try to repay it on the pitch,
with hard work, goals and assists, so that it continues. Apparently my
song's going to be the next big single!" Next up for West Ham is a trip to
Newcastle United - and Payet will have good memories of the reverse fixture
earlier this season. Indeed, on that occasion, the Frenchman linked up
effectively with Victor Moses as the east London side won 2-0 and could have
scored even more. On the break, West Ham were quick as lightning and ended
up dominating against a limp Steve McClaren side. This time around,
Newcastle may go into proceedings with more confidence after a 3-3 draw with
Manchester United - as well as the knowledge they'll be at home. But the
Hammers have more to be confident about right now, sitting fifth in the
Premier League and knowing there's no reason they can't hunt a top-four spot
down.

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Captain Mark Noble has his say on lack of recognition for West Ham
HITC
Damien Lucas

All the talk has been about Tottenham Hotspur but Mark Noble has given his
verdict on a lack of recognition for his high-flying West Ham United side.
The Hammers are fifth in the Premier League table and one point off the
Champions League places after winning 3-1 away at Bournemouth in midweek. It
was a fourth win in a row for Slaven Bilic's side in all competitions and
extended the club's unbeaten run to eight games. That is despite a glut of
injuries to seven key first team players and amid a lot of media hype about
the likes of Spurs, Leicester City and Stoke City who are all enjoying
impressive seasons of their own. Spurs have even been talked about as
potential title contenders but West Ham's form has barely registered in some
quarters. While Bilic is probably quite happy for his side to be out of the
limelight as they quietly go about mounting a surprise bid for a Champions
League spot, some supporters - and co-owner David Gold in particular - are
not. Hammers fans have been bemoaning a lack of coverage and recognition for
their high-flying team on the likes of BBC's Match of the Day and from
pundits in general. In fact Gold has been so incensed he has recently taken
to Twitter to lambast the BBC and one of their pundits Mark Lawrenson.
Lawrenson has predicted 15 defeats and just two wins for the Hammers this
season - which would have left them second bottom of the Premier League
rather than fifth.

'Over the moon'

But despite the lack of recognition, Noble has told the club's official
website he is more than happy to go under the radar. "We are going to keep
working hard, keep putting points on the board," the homegrown Hammer told
whufc.com. "We are over the moon that no-one is talking about us and talking
about the other teams. "Hopefully, we are going to keep creeping up table."
If West Ham can produce another away win on the road to Newcastle United on
Saturday it could push them above rivals Tottenham into fourth place. And if
that happens Noble's team will find themselves very much in the spotlight as
we approach the business end of this most open of Premier League seasons.

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