First and Last - Angelo Ogbonna
WHUFC.com
As West Ham United continue the final season at the Boleyn Ground, we've
asked the players for some memorable firsts and lasts from their careers and
lives. Today, Angelo Ogbonna goes under the spotlight…
FIRSTS
What is the first rule you would change?
I like the game just the way it is, nice and simple, so I wouldn't change
any of the rules.
Who was your first hero?
I have a lot of heroes, but the biggest one and the first one was Michael
Jordan, the Chicago Bulls basketball player. He was the greatest, that's
why!
Tell us about your first career goal…
Yes, I remember it was against Cesena for Torino in Serie B in Italy in
April 2010, and we drew 1-1. It was a header. It was a simple, easy goal!
Tell us about your first game for Italy…
Yes, I remember it was against Poland in a friendly international in Wroclaw
in November 2011. I came on as a substitute for Domenico Criscito late in
the game, which we won 2-0. I got a yellow card in the last minute, but we
don't talk about this moment!
What was the first CD you bought?
I have got a lot of CDs but I can't remember the first one I bought. It
would definitely have been hip hop or R'n'B though!
LASTS
What was the last concert you want to?
Beyonce in Milan!
Tell us about your last holiday…
It was a long time ago now, last summer! I went to New York!
When was the last time you changed shirts with an opposition player?
It was at Manchester United earlier this season, when I swapped with Matteo
Darmian, as we had previously played together with Torino.
What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
I can't remember the last time I went to the cinema, it was so long ago,
back when I was living in Italy! I did see a good film this week, though,
called Legend, which is an English gangster film made in London.
What was the last sporting event you want to watch?
It was tennis – Roger Federer against Novak Djokovic in the ATP Tour World
Finals at the O2 in December.
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Di Canio to grace the Boleyn again!
WHUFc.com
Paolo Di Canio has become the latest West Ham United legend to announce that
he will return to the Boleyn Ground to star in Hammers captain Mark Noble's
Testimonial.
The Testimonial fixture between the current West Ham team and a West Ham
All-Stars squad will take place on Easter Monday, 28 March at 2pm. Tickets
for the eagerly-awaited match are already selling fast, and the chance to
see the return of the Italian legend will increase demand still further.
The proceeds from all ticket sales will be distributed between Mark Noble's
three chosen charities: Richard House Children's Hospice, Help for Heroes
and the DT38 Foundation.
Di Canio scored 52 goals in 141 appearances for West Ham between 1999 and
2003, one of the best and longest periods of his club career, and he will
forever be associated with the Boleyn Ground for the wonder volley he scored
there against Wimbledon in March 2000.
Di Canio will have to travel over the Easter break from Italy where he is
enjoying a thriving television career, whilst waiting for the right
management opportunity to arise at a UK club. When he heard that Mark
Noble's Testimonial was taking place and received the invitation to play, he
was determined to make it happen.
The decision to stagger the announcement of those taking part has meant
keeping some of the all-star names under wraps so both Paolo and Mark are
thrilled to finally be able to go public with news of Paolo's return to the
hallowed turf of the Boleyn Ground.
Mark Noble signed as a trainee with West Ham just as Paolo Di Canio left the
Club in 2003, but they finally shared the Boleyn Ground pitch together in
2010, with the Italian playing for both sides and winning the Man of the
Match award in the Testimonial match for Academy legend, Tony Carr.
"When I was coming up through the Academy", the Hammers skipper said, "Paolo
was the man we all looked up to - he was a genius with the ball, and such a
character on and off the pitch. If you'd told me then that he'd be coming
back one day to play in my Testimonial match, I'd never have believed it.
"I'm so proud and grateful that Paolo will be there, with all the other
Hammers lads. It is such an honour to share my big day with them on Easter
Monday, and especially so to be doing it at the Boleyn Ground, in our final
season here."
Di Canio joins a host of other former West Ham players who are so far
confirmed to appear in the All-Stars squad for the Testimonial match,
including Rio Ferdinand, Anton Ferdinand, Matthew Etherington, Carlton Cole,
Craig Bellamy, Scott Parker, Stewart Downing, Danny Gabbidon, Bobby Zamora,
Dean Ashton, Yossi Benayoun, Trevor Sinclair, Ian Bishop, Julian Dicks and
Ludek Miklosko.
Season Ticket Holders can buy their tickets now for just £20 with Under-16s
paying just £5. Tickets for Under 21s and OAPs will be £10.
For Members, tickets go on sale on Saturday 6 February and will be £25,
while Under-16s will pay just £10. Prices for Under 21s and OAPs are £15.
Tickets will go on General Sale on Monday 8 February, and VIP packages are
available from just £99+VAT.
Tickets are available to purchase online, in person at the Betway Stand
Ticket Office, or by calling 0871 529 1966 via Option 3 (9am-5pm
Monday-Saturdays) or 0871 529 1966via Option 1 (Call Centre open 24 hours).
Calls cost 13p per minute plus your phone company's access charge.
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Chadwell Chatter - Michail Antonio
WHUFC.com
Hello everyone,
I have been getting goals in the last few home games and it would be nice if
I could start scoring some away from home as well! I have had three headers
and it would be nice for me to start using my feet now. I always feel like I
am going to score and hopefully I can stay among the goals.
It was an unbelievable cross from Mark Noble to pick me out but I still had
some work to do to get the ball past the keeper. We are getting to know each
other and he knows when I am going to make those runs. Some players would
have taken it down on their chest but I had the confidence to head the ball
into the far corner and it managed to go in so I was very happy. As the ball
was coming over I had a quick look to see where the keeper was and he was by
the near post so I decided to wrong foot him and it managed to go in. We
started the game well and when they were reduced to ten-men we took control
of the game.
If we doing well and winning games than anything is possible. We are not
focusing on what could happen, we are just taking it game by game and
wanting to take the three points. The next task is away at Southampton and
we hope to come away with another victory. We don't want to put any extra
pressure on ourselves. We are happy to stay out of the limelight and can
hopefully keep doing well. I had to be patient getting into the team but
hopefully I can keep showing the gaffer what I can do. Over the last
five-years I have been a first-team regular and now I feel part of the team.
If I am fit I have been playing and scoring and hopefully that will
continue.
Enjoy the game on Saturday.
Michail.
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From the Newsroom - Jon West
WHUFC.com
Football writer for the national newspapers Jon West gives us his assessment
of the Hammers this season…
Given it is his first season in English football, I think Slaven Bilic has
done a very, very good job. His first task was to ensure a smooth transition
from Sam Allardyce's West Ham and he did that straight away.
Media wise, Slaven is very, very good. Despite his pitchside manner, he's
quietly spoken and it is sometimes hard to hear him at the back of the press
room!
The image he portrays is one of calm, if things go wrong, he won't panic.
It's hard to see him get overly upset about anything.
With 14 league games to go, Europa League qualification is definitely a
realistic target, hopefully they'll treat it more seriously this time. The
season started too early really, the squad weren't really ready, if they can
get there on their own merit, I think they'll give it a good go, that's the
level they're on at the moment.
The highlight of the Hammers' season, of course, has been the exploits of
Dimitri Payet. The Frenchman has really given them that added dimension and
I think the fans have been longing for a player like him for years.
He's a France international, so perhaps people shouldn't be too surprised
about his quality but saying that I think, relatively, he came in under the
radar. He's certainly hit the ground running in the Premier League and has
proved to be an absolute bargain.
Another player who has really stood out for me is James Collins, he has
really impressed me. He's come back into the side with a bit of a point to
prove but he's been excellent, he's come back and absolutely nailed that
centre-back spot.
Michail Antonio has also caught my eye. He's had to wait his time but he's
come in and done very well, he's clearly a very hungry player and he's made
a similar journey that Jamie Vardy has made.
The Hammers travel to the south coast to face Southampton which should be a
very intriguing game. A point is a good result away from home, against a
team that is on a very similar level to them. They're capable of winning it
but a point would be very good.
I actually think the performance in the second half in the reverse fixture
earlier this season was the best I've seen West Ham this season. Considering
they started off slowly in the first half, with Southampton cruising, they
turned a 2/10 performance into an 8/10. That performance sticks out the
most.
Afterward, I remember Bilic saying "We can talk about what I said at
half-time; but we should focus on why I didn't say that before the game!"
As for the Boleyn Ground, it is strange to think that there is only seven
league games left before the move. It's one of those great iconic English
grounds and it'll be sad to see it drop off the footballing map, but that's
progress and the new stadium is such a great opportunity for West Ham.
*The views in this article don't necessarily reflect that of West Ham United
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James Collins: West Ham form is all for Chris Coleman's benefit
BBC.co.uk
James Collins believes he is playing the best football of his career,
entirely because of his ambition to play for Wales at Euro 2016. The West
Ham United defender has become a key figure at Upton Park this season and
has signed a new contract. Collins is a regular in the Premier League, but
not for his country. "My current good form is fuelled by Wales, 100% that is
in my mind, wanting to impress (Wales manager) Chris Coleman," he said. The
32-year old former Cardiff City and Aston Villa defender earned only 46
international caps, fewer than younger team-mates Chris Gunter (63), Joe
Ledley (58), Ashley Williams (55) and Gareth Bale (53). That is despite
making his debut for the Dragons in 2004 against Norway.
Euro aim
Wales face Slovakia, England and Russia this summer in France, Wales' first
major tournament appearance in 58-years. "This is the strongest Welsh squad
I have been involved with, it is a great squad and there is competition for
places. "There is no guarantee of being in the squad, let alone starting the
games. "So I feel like I need to impress the gaffer, that is my frame of
mind. "You know with him you need to train well and work hard. "I want him
to have me in my thoughts for a starting place or just to get in the squad.
"To go and be involved would be amazing, but the ultimate would be to play
well in a major tournament for Wales."
Euro 2016, Wales' key dates
Opponent: Slovakia Venue: Stade de Bordeaux Date: Saturday 11 June Kick-off:
17.00 GMT
Opponent: England Venue: Stade Bollaert-Delelis Date: Thursday 16 June
Kick-off: 14.00 GMT
Opponent: Russia Venue: Stadium de Toulouse Date: Monday 20 June Kick-off:
20.00 GMT
Senior pro
Collins feels he is ready to embrace the role of elder statesman in Chris
Coleman's youthful squad. "I feel like I have grown-up, Wales is a young
squad and I've been part of football for a lot longer than some of the
others," he explained. "I am a senior player and international breaks can be
a long week, I try to keep the boys entertained. "You bring your stories to
tell the boys and they are all great lads, the gaffer has got things spot on
in the Wales camp. "I enjoy it, all the players enjoy it and I'm playing the
best football of my career, personally.
"In the past we've turned up before the first qualifier and thought 'we
aren't going to qualify'. "That doesn't happen anymore."
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Double striker boost for Bilic ahead of Southampton test
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th February 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has been handed a major boost ahead of this weekend's trip to
St Mary's. The Hammers boss confirmed this morning that he expects his match
day squad to be bolstered by the return of Andy Carroll - who has been
sidelined with injury since before Christmas - and new signing Emmanuel
Emenike, who trained with his new team mates for the first time this morning
after his work permit was rubber-stamped. "Andy is back," Bilic told the
assembled media at this morning's pre-match press conference. "He has been
training with us since Monday. He has been doing individual training for ten
days so he might be in the squad. We're going to see today and we will
assess him tomorrow, but he should be involved. "Emekine is training with us
today for the first time. He's a naturally fit player but again I would like
to see a bit of him on the pitch. He only arrived in England yesterday
because of the work permit stuff, but he's in today and is going to train
with us. We're going to see."
And there was further good news for Bilic with confirmation that central
defender Angelo Ogbonna - who missed the 2-0 win over Aston VIlla on Tuesday
night with a heavy cold - is also likely to return for the trip South.
"Ogbonna had a bit of flu and missed he game against Villa," confirmed
Bilic. "He's a bit better today and we're going to see him in training
tomorrow, which will be good. He could be in the squad for Southampton, but
we don't know about that."
With view to other injury issues, Bilic confirmed that there were no major
problems to emerge from the Villa test - whilst his attacking options are
set to be boosted further imminently with the return of two very important
figures. "We have a couple of other knocks but they should be alright for
Satruday," he added. "We'll have to see in training today. [Diafra] Sakho
and [Manuel] Lanzini are still out but both should be back within a couple
of weeks time, maximum."
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Andy Carroll in line for West Ham return against Southampton
By Alice Piper
Last Updated: 04/02/16 2:54pm
SSN
Andy Carroll is set to return from a hamstring injury for West Ham's trip to
Southampton on Saturday. The England striker, who resumed training after a
month out, has been hit by a number of injuries since joining the Hammers in
2012 and has registered just seven Premier League starts this season. But
manager Slaven Bilic has revealed the 27-year-old is likely to be included
in the squad to face Saints, live on Sky Sports.
"Andy Carroll is back, he's been training with us since Monday," said Bilic.
"We are going to see on Thursday and Friday but he should be involved."
Carroll could be joined at St Mary's by January signing Emmanuel Emenike,
the Nigerian striker who arrived on loan from Fenerbahce. Emenike sat out
Tuesday's 2-0 home win over Aston Villa but has since received the work
permit required to join up with the squad. "We will see about Emmanuel,"
added Bilic. "He is going to train with us for the first time. He's
naturally fit, but I would like to see him." The Hammers are on course to
challenge their best ever Premier League finish of fifth, a feat they
achieved in the 1998-99 season. Bilic's men are only six points off
fourth-placed Arsenal after 24 games and their impressive form has raised
hopes that the club could qualify for next season's Champions League or
Europa League. We are fit, we are good, we are collecting points and I hope
we are going to continue like this. "We are good, we are consistent, I would
like us to be more consistent. Of course there is always room for
improvement but we are very confident," Bilic said.
"We have 14 games to play, which is a lot, but we are fit, we are good, we
are collecting points and I hope we are going to continue like this.
"We shouldn't be looking at the table at the moment, all we can influence is
our performances so that's what we'll concentrate on."
West Ham face a Southampton side who won three games in a row prior to their
hard-fought goalless draw at Arsenal on Tuesday. "Yes, they have been
unpredictable at times, but they are playing good, especially recently. They
are a good side, they like to play football," added Bilic.
"They have great individuals and great pace on the counter-attack, so I am
expecting a very, very tough game and a very good game on Saturday."
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic among January award nominees
By Matthew Treadwell
Last Updated: 04/02/16 11:37am
SSN
Slaven Bilic, Ronald Koeman, Manuel Pellegrini and Mauricio Pochettino have
been nominated for the January Manager of the Month award. West Ham boss
Bilic saw his side pick up seven points last month, including wins at home
to Liverpool and away to Bournemouth. Southampton's Koeman is nominated
after his side earned three wins from four matches during an impressive
January that saw them defeat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford.
Pellegrini helped Manchester City maintain their title push with the club
unbeaten in January, ensuring he is included in the list of nominees. The
Chilean saw his side come from behind to defeat Watford 2-1 at Vicarage Road
on January 2, followed by a 4-0 thrashing of Crystal Palace two weeks later.
Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino completes the quartet, with Spurs
victorious in two of their four games last month, including a 4-1 win over
Sunderland and a 3-1 victory at Crystal Palace. City, Southampton and Spurs
could all be celebrating an awards double, with those teams also having
representatives for the Player of the Month category. Sergio Aguero has
scored five times during January, including a double in the defeat of
Palace, while Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli also gets a nod. Southampton
defender Virgil Van Dijk is also nominated for as string of impressive
performances, as the former Celtic player helped the Saints pick up three
clean sheets from their five matches. Premier League leaders Leicester also
kept three clean sheets in January, a fact recognised by the inclusion of
goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. At the other end of the pitch, Sunderland
striker Jermaine Defoe netted five goals during the month to help boost the
club's survival chances. The England international scored twice in the 3-1
victory over fellow strugglers Aston Villa before hitting a hat-trick in the
4-2 win at Swansea in their next Premier League fixture. Liverpool forward
Roberto Firmino is the final nominee, with the Brazil international scoring
two goals in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal before finding the net twice more in
the 5-4 win at Norwich. The winners will be revealed from 6am on Friday
morning on Sky Sports News HQ.
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Valencia may live to regret crossing Slav
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The next few days may show us precisely how Slaven Blic deals with
confrontation! We've had a taste of it via Morgan Amalfitino who, having
crossed swords with the boss, found himself down the road faster than you
can pronounce his surname. Since then it's been all sweetness and light
until Enner Valencia lost it when subbed towards the end of the Villa match
immediately after he'd played a major part in Chiek Kouyate's second goal.
The timing of his demonstration was somewhat counter productive with Emenike
having arrived and with Carroll and Sakho on their way back.
Sensibly substituted, the Ecuadorian international Valencia was one unhappy
bunny and threw his hands in the air whilst shaking his head at the
management team in the dug out. He swerved the manager's outstretched hand,
stropped his way towards his seat on the bench and ignored the manager as he
tried to call after him to shake his hand properly before throwing his
gloves to the floor in a prolonged sulk.
Some will say it was a display of passion for the team…I'd say it was
entirely stupid. I don't actually think Slaven Bilic is a man with whom you
want to pick a fight – as was shown the minute he walked into the place.
Interestingly, Valencia wasn't mentioned as the manager discussed his
striking options for the weekend at his press conference with him claiming
he was looking at Emenike and Carroll was likely to be involved. Maybe there
was no need to mention EV – perhaps he will start regardless but and then on
the other hand…..! I have the feeling Mr Valencia may regret his childish
show of pique.
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Barca showpiece OS opener looks non starter
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Hopes that Barcelona would agree to playing a pre-season friendly at the
Olympic Stadium took a knock this morning as negotiations with the Catalan
giants founder. Reports arose yesterday evening that the opening fixture at
the Olympic Stadium could be " an amazing pre-season friendly against the
mighty Barcelona."
And it's true that the club have been in touch with the most attractive club
in world football – along with various others – as they attempt to kick off
life at Stratford in style. However, ClaretandHugh was told this morning
when contacting our top club insider: "We offered them over £1 million but
we can't get them to agree. They have so many offers but it's not about
money for them. "It's a very difficult one to book and bed down anyway
because there is a very good chance of us being in Europe ourselves and we
would have to see what round we would enter."
Our source explained that other clubs such as Real Madrid and AC Milan had
been approached but added: "There are no agreements with anybody " because
ourselves and and possible European involvement makes the situation
particularly awkward."
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Boleyn a fortress as we prepare to leave!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News
C and H
Mark Noble may not have realised it but his words following the match
against Villa were hugely ironic. After his own massive performance the
skipper Nobes commented: "We're making this a tough place to come and
play." In itself that may not men too much to many but the unbeaten record
does indeed to back to August as Upton Park again becomes a fortress. It's
more than a bit sad this has become the case in the club's last season at
theBoleyn which of course for most of us is a tragdy in itself! First
seasons in new stadiums can be tough. Becoming used to an atmosphere which
will be a million miles removed from the family feel of the Boleyn could
cause a few stutters as we start life. Noble however, also reveals: ""This
is the best team I've been involved in and we've still got games to play and
points to pick up. To be fair I'm looking forward to every game." With the
additional players arriving in the summer we look forward to settling into
our new surroundings quickly and effectively but that UP should become a
fortress as we are about to leave it is ironic in the extreme. However, we
trust Slav. He has turned this club around at the Boleyn – I have no doubt
he will sort the new stadium 'issue' with the minimum of trouble
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Slav checks out strikers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News
C and H
Slaven Bilic has made it clear no decision has been made about Emanuelle
Emenike's involvement against Southampton. The Fenerbahce frontman arrived
in east London only yesterday afternoon after earning a work permit which
meant he missed the 2-0 win over Villa. Bilic – speaking at his morning
press conference – declared: "Emenike arrived yesterday after getting his
work permit, we will watch him and make a decision about his involvement.
Fellow forward Andy Carroll is back in training having not featured since
the 3-1 win at Bournemouth and will also be checked out thoroughly before a
decision is made. Bilic said: "We will look at Andy Carroll today in
training, he should be available for the squad this weekend.
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Noble tells club to control expectations
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News
C and H
Mark Noble has made it clear the club has to manage carefully the growing
expectations among the fans as the players continue to ride the crest of a
wave. Already thoughts are turning firmly to Europe as the club maintain
sixth position with matches against top placed sides still to come. Noble
understands the current excitement but says: ""Of course we need to control
it. "That's what's going to happen if you keep winning games. We're sixth in
the table, it's our highest league position ever at this stage. "We were
unbeaten over Christmas. And even if those games did include five draws,
they are still draws. "Now we have come out of the other side, we have
players back and we are winning games again."
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Hammers warn on mega spending summer
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham have warned fans against thoughts they may have a major club
spending spree this summer. With talk of 20 goal striker and £20 million
purchases grabbing the headlines a top insider has warned that much of last
summer's spending was made against loans that need to be paid back. The club
are set to invest £8 million in Manu Lanzini once he has proved his fitness
after injury and Emanuelle Eminike is another possible signing dependent on
him showing over the next three months on loan. The jury remains out on Alex
Song as a free transfer and with the tight back position solved via Sam
Byram, the club seen no reason to spend the £35 million they splashed out
last summer. ClaretandHugh was told by a major source: "We had a very big
summer last time and we have to pay back what we borrowed but we are aware
that we need as good a striker as we an find at sensible money. It's a
priority. "We have shown with purchases like Payet, Lanzini, Antonio and
Byram that we have a top scouting system in place and we will find the man
we want at the right price. "We need to balance our debt situation and
player requirements but yes a striker is a must for us this summer."
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Noble could face Testimonial headache
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 4, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
A growing clamour for Mark Noble to be brought into the England fold could
leave the captain and club with a major headache next month . Noble was put
forward as a candidate for international honours by almost every BT Sport
pundit after his brilliant performance against Aston Villa on Tuesday
evening. Both Glnn Hoddle and Robbie Savage made their feelings very clear
that the Canning Town born player looked every inch an international
midfelder and called on England boss Roy Hodgson to give him his chance in
the game against Holland on March 29.
However, should he get the call he will be with England when he has a
testimonial scheduled for the night of the 28th and it would take a major
re-organisation for him and the club reschedule the 'testy.' A source said:
"X Factor winner Louisa Johnson has been booked to appear and players are
giving up their time to play in the match for Mark. It could become a bit of
a headache."
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Andy Carroll and Emmanuel Emenike in West Ham squad for Southampton trip
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Andy Carroll is set to return to the West Ham squad for Saturday's match
away to Southampton, where he will be joined by January signing Emmanuel
Emenike. The Nigerian international has obtained the work permit that will
allow him to join up with Slaven Bilic's squad, having missed the 2-0 home
victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday. Emenike will do battle with both Enner
Valencia and Carroll for the opportunity to lead the line as the attacking
options swell for Bilic, who still has Nikica Jelavic at the club ahead of a
possible move to China. Injuries have meant that Carroll has missed ten of
West Ham's 23 Premier League matches this season, but the striker has
impressed in crucial games including victories over West Ham and Liverpool.
Having been out since coming off early in the 3-1 victory over Bournemouth
Hammers head of medical and sports science Stijn Vandenrboucke confirmed he
is fit to play a part. However January signing Sam Byram could miss both
the trip to St Mary's and the FA Cup replay against Liverpool after picking
up a training injury that will rule him out for a week. His place may be
taken by Joey O'Brien, returning to the squad for Saturday's FA Cup tie with
Liverpool after five months out with ankle problems.
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Dimitri Payet gaining cult status under Slaven Bilic at West Ham
ESPN
Slaven Bilic was full of praise for his West Ham side after they beat Aston
Villa 2-0. Manchester City may have Kevin de Bruyne and Arsenal are feeling
the benefit of Petr Cech but in east London, officials and fans believe
their club made the deal of the 2015 summer transfer window for what now
looks a bargain £10.7 million from Marseille. After five months in London,
Dimitri Payet has achieved cult-hero status. In the final season at Upton
Park, West Ham have the ideal man to help sign off 112 years of tradition at
the ground. Paolo Di Canio, Trevor Brooking, Bobby Moore, even a young Joe
Cole: players who graced E13 9AZ with a footballing outlook and cavalier
approaches that reflected what is known as the "West Ham Way."
And Payet, a player who embodies imagination, creativity and a touch of
rebellion, is such a player. Even in the season of Jamie Vardy and Riyad
Mahrez's heroics for Leicester, Payet has been a true revelation, a
performer well worth paying the the admission fee to see. "Number 27 ...
we've got Dimitri Payet" as PA announcer Martin Godleman specially singles
out the Frenchman when he reads through West Ham's team list at Upton Park.
"I like attacking football and that they're counting on me to help achieve
that gives me a sense of responsibility," Payet said on completing the deal
with Marseille in June, a transfer which co-chairman David Sullivan took a
leading role in pushing through. "Payet is the signing of the season,"
Sullivan said in December of someone who has scored six times and assisted
four in his 17 matches so far. "He's the best player I've signed in 25
years. He's a £30 million player."
If winning is important, then equally so is entertaining the home crowd at
West Ham. Perhaps moving the club this summer to Stratford's Olympic Stadium
might one day convert the team into the sort that competes for Premier
League titles but instead of that, the Cockneys and Essex boys who make up
the Hammers' support have asked for their football players to decorate a
tough part of the capital city with flair and elegance.
A failure to grasp that expectation often led to a difficult relationship
between former manager Sam Allardyce and the fans. "I don't know who
invented the 'West Ham Way' phrase, but it's a millstone around the club's
neck," Allardyce wrote in the autobiography he published last year . By
contrast, successor Slaven Bilic, who served the club as a popular defender
from 1996 to 1997, appears to have cracked the old code, and has placed a
player whose talent he terms "scary" at the fulcrum of his team. Though
Payet often begins matches on the left flank, he is granted near-total
freedom by his manager. The feints and flicks delight but he is by no means
a decorative player, and has made a huge contribution to a team sixth in the
Premier League, and within striking distance of a Champions League place.
Dimitri Payet has been one of the Premier League's most entertaining players
this season. Bilic's enthusiasm for what he had seen of Payet helped
convince the man born on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion to move
to a club with serious ambitions tied to its imminent stadium move. He has
been a palpable hit from his Premier League debut, a 2-0 win at Arsenal on
Aug. 9, in which his contribution inspired a famous victory over the north
London giants.
As West Ham stormed into a two-goal lead after goals from Cheikhou Kouyate
-- assisted by a Payet free kick -- and Mauro Zarate, Payet's ball-carrying
skills drove Arsenal to distraction. He bought tiring teammates time to rest
with daring drives into Arsenal's defence and he has largely replicated that
level of influence since then. It appears little coincidence that West Ham
won just one of eight matches during Payet's absence following an ankle
injury sustained against Everton on Nov. 7. He returned for a showboating
cameo return in their 2-0 home defeat of Liverpool on Jan.2. That afternoon,
he had fans chirruping in admiration as he careered through Jurgen Klopp's
team.
On Tuesday, as West Ham beat relegation-doomed Aston Villa 2-0 at Upton Park
to stay sixth, Payet began quietly, only to crescendo as his team soared
into an unassailable lead. Bilic grants him responsibility with the majority
of free kicks, while his teammates look to give him possession as soon as
possible, using him as the focal point of their passing triangles.There were
dummies aplenty, drops of the shoulder to send opposing defenders the wrong
direction and elastic control with both feet.
Occasionally, the flights of fancy took him off the wavelength of less
visionary colleagues. However, his presence serves to increase the creative
output of some of them, with captain Mark Noble, West Ham's star man on
Tuesday, particularly inspired to fire the angled pass that set up Michail
Antonio for the opening goal. With Villa down to 10 men for 73 minutes after
Jordan Ayew had been sent off for a crazy loss of discipline, the game
finished with home fans again chuckling as Payet bamboozled defenders with
skill.
Payet was the focal point of Marseille's attacks under Marcelo Bielsa. At
28, Payet is no overnight sensation. He was a veteran of four French
football clubs when signed from Marseille and was the leading Ligue 1
assist-maker in 2014-15. No player in Europe's top five leagues made as many
as the 135 chances he created for his Marseille teammates under the tutelage
of Marcelo Bielsa, the pioneering Argentine coach who Pep Guardiola counts
among one of his inspirations.
And that Arsenal bow was not Payet's first appearance on English soil. In
November 2010, while a Saint-Etienne player, he played 23 minutes at Wembley
in France's 2-1 defeat of England, replacing Florent Malouda on the left
wing. He has not become a regular for Les Bleus, though, and in October he
criticised France coach Didier Deschamps for omitting him from the Euro 2016
hosts' autumn friendlies.
"The thing that I haven't yet come to terms with is the injustice," he told
L'Equipe, evidencing the rebel spirit for which he has a reputation in his
home country. On-pitch fisticuffs with Saint-Etienne teammate Blaise Matuidi
in 2010 gained him particular notoriety. At West Ham, a place where a
well-travelled maverick like Di Canio once found himself a home and became
an idol, such qualities only add to Payet's appeal.
John Brewin is a staff writer for ESPN FC. Follow him on Twitter
@JohnBrewinESPN.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll back in training and ready to play against Southampton,
confirms Slaven Bilic as England striker returns from injury
By ANDY SIMS, PRESS ASSOCIATION
PUBLISHED: 13:47, 4 February 2016 | UPDATED: 13:47, 4 February 2016
MAILONLINE
Andy Carroll is set to make his latest return from injury when West Ham
travel to Southampton on Saturday. The striker has resumed training after
just under a month on the sidelines with a hamstring problem. Carroll has
been dogged by injuries since joining West Ham in 2012 and has managed just
seven starts in the Premier League this season. But the 27-year-old is
poised to be added to manager Slaven Bilic's squad for the tea-time clash on
the south coast. 'Andy Carroll is back, he's been training with us since
Monday,' said Bilic. 'He had been out on the pitch training for 10 days
before that. We are going to see on Thursday and Friday but he should be
involved.' Carroll could be joined at St Mary's by January signing Emmanuel
Emenike, the Nigerian striker brought in on loan from Fenerbahce last
weekend. However, Emenike will train with his new team-mates for the first
time on Thursday, having only have arrived in England 24 hours before as he
awaited a work permit. 'We will see about him,' added Bilic. 'He is going
to train with us for the first time. He's naturally fit, but I would like to
see him.' Defender Angelo Ogbonna could also return to the squad after
missing the midweek win over Aston Villa with flu. Midfielder Manuel Lanzini
and striker Diafra Sakho are still recovering from thigh injuries but Bilic
expects them back in contention soon. 'They are still out but they will be
back in a couple of weeks, maximum, we hope,' he said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic prepared to give West Ham debut to striker Emmanuel Emenike at
Southampton
SLAVEN BILIC is ready to parade new January signing Emmanuel Emenike against
Southampton hoping to prove immediately that he is king of the bargain
hunters.
By MATTHEW DUNN
PUBLISHED: 11:28, Thu, Feb 4, 2016 | UPDATED: 11:45, Thu, Feb 4, 2016
Express.co.uk
Southampton's £4m man Charlie Austin was on the West Ham manager's radar in
the summer but for an agreed fee of £1m more than the England international,
Bilic has a four-month loan period to run his eye over a Fenerbahce player
as yet untested in England. To that end, Bilic is ready to throw the Nigeria
international straight into the mix in a new-look West Ham forward line on
Saturday. "He is going to train with us today for the first time," he said.
"He is naturally fit but I would like to see him. "He only arrived yesterday
in London because of the work permit issue and other stuff. He will train
with us and I will make a decision. "Furthermore, Andy Carroll is back
training with us since Monday. He was on the pitch for 10 days before that.
We are going to see him a later today and a little bit tomorrow but he
should be involved."
That is not to say Bilic is not wary of the impact Austin can have for the
visitors. "He is a great player," he said. "He is not one of those who has
just done it in the Championship and there is a bit of a question-mark
because Charlie scored many goals in the Premier League in the season that
QPR got relegated. "To get him that sort of money – and then have him score
the winner in his first game at Old Trafford – he should be a great buy. "I
was a little bit surprised he went for that money in England. He is
definitely a player with the quality to play for the West Ham and most teams
in the Premier League, but we had different targets. We have enough strikers
and were hoping for a different type of player."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison 'not in good condition' and rejected Deadline Day loan switch
London 24
11:13 04 February 2016
Brad Pinard
Former West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison has been criticised by Lazio
chiefs over his fitness and decision making. 0 The ex-Manchester United
academy starlet has failed to make much impact since joining the Serie A
club officially in the summer. After a troublesome spell at West Ham, the
clearly talented midfield man was hoping to thrive in Italy, but not yet up
to speed, Lazio may be losing patience. "He's not in good condition," Lazio
manager Stefano Pioli explained. "His adjustment period is over. He knows
what he has to do - and what not to do - to be called-up. The same goes for
him as all the others." Morrison was linked with a move back to England on
loan in January, but that never materialised and it now turns out the
23-year-old rejected the chance to get some game time with Serie B
strugglers Salernitana. "Morrison refused to join Salernitana and I cannot
force them to accept," Lazio President Claudio Lotito. "He is a player of
quality for Serie B, I'd say worthy of the Champions League. I tried to the
last moment of the transfer window, but was unable to convince them. "I had
also promised them some bonuses, but now they will stay at Lazio where they
don't play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NEXT SUMMER IS CRUCIAL TO OUR ACHIEVING OUR LONG TERM AMBITIONS!
By S J Chandos 4 Feb 2016 at 08:00
WTID
I have to say that I was pleased with the club's business in the January
transfer window. We secured an excellent acquisition in Sam Byram. While the
loan deal for Emenike, could turn out to be an inspired. But if it does not
work out then we have not lost anything and can move on to other options in
the summer (that is the beauty of loan with a option to sign deals). This is
the way January transfer windows should be, no panic, and the luxury of
surveying the market for one or two acquisitions to keep the pot boiling. As
we know, successful clubs do their major business in the summer and, if they
do it correctly it relieves them of the desperate need to turn things around
in January.
Naturally, this coming summer is going to be a milestone in the long history
of West Ham Utd FC.The board will be take advantage of the monies arising
from the massive new TV deal to ensure that we inject that extra bit of top
notch class in to our very good first team squad. The debut season at the
Olympic Stadium will require it, as will the club's pursuit of its long-term
ambitions and the more immediate prospect of European football next season.
The club's transfer strategy over the last two or three campaigns has
revolutionized the Hammers squad. We now have far greater quality and
strength in depth. And we need to ensure that we secure both Lanzini and
Song on permanent deals to cement our recent progress as a club. Both are
key men and we must retain them..
Next season, we should be looking to secure three or four absolutely top
class players to take us even further forward. Firstly, we need a striker
that can score 20 goals a season on a consistent basis. That is easier said
than done, because such consistently prolific goal scorers are literally
worth their weight in gold. But we already know that this is the no.1
priority in the summer and that has been confirmed by the club. We will also
need a quality wide player to replace Victor Moses, who will probably return
to Chelsea when his loan expires, who can compete with Antonio and, ideally,
play on either flank. Again, we know that Tore is likely to be our top
target for this role. In my opinion the third major acquisition should be
good/high promising play-maker to compete/cover for Payet and Lanzini in
midfield (unless Samuelson or Cullen are ready to step up to that role?). I
believe that the defensive midfield roles will be more than adequately
covered with Song, Obiang, Noble, Poyet Oxford and Kouyate in the squad. So,
the major transfer emphasis will most probably be on attacking players and
improving our strength/options in the final third..
Elsewhere in the squad (i.e. the defence) it is about whether there is scope
to move on out one or two players and trade up on quality. Our goal keeping
stable looks in good shape, we have two excellent custodians, in Adrian and
Randolph, and two promising young understudies in Spiegel and Howes. The
exit of Joey O'Brien, in the summer, means that we might need another
right-back to cover/compete with Byram (possibly our fourth signing).
Hopefully, left-back is sorted with Cresswell, Hendrie and Page in the
squad. While at centre-half, we have the core quality provided by Reid and
Tomkins. But are there question marks over whether Collins will be traded up
and if Ogbonna is settled in English football? Of course, we have the luxury
of having three quality youngsters in Burke, Oxford and Henry and one would
hope that they will really make their presence felt next season. Ideally,
they will, with Burke maybe replacing Collins (if his experience is not an
asset to be retained for another campaign?) and Oxford getting the chance to
play in his favoured centre-back role. But what if Ogbonna wants to return
to Italian football (in accordance with recent rumours) would Bilic bring in
a ready-made, top-class, replacement or retain Collins and/or put his faith
in the youngsters?
We are approaching the crucial 'endgame' of what could/should be a very
successful season. Hopefully we can progress in the FA Cup and make a
concerted effort to finish in, or as near as possible to, that magic fourth
position. Champions League qualification is still very much a possibility
and Bilic's understated approach of taking one match at a time is
undoubtedly correct. But to finish as high as possible we need to start
matches strongly and play well for 90 minutes. If we have shown a weakness
this season it is that we sometimes start games too slowly. We have got
anyway with that a few times this season, but on one or two occasions (i.e.
Newcastle Utd away) we have 'come unstuck.' We certainly started badly
against Villa but any danger was averted by Villa's early red card and some
great play by Noble/Antonio and Valencia/Kouyate. It is an issue of which
Slaven Bilic must surely look to resolve going forward.
Anyway, I can imagine some fans will ask why I am focusing on next summer
when the January transfer window has only just shut and there is so much to
play for in the remainder of this exciting campaign. Well, the answer is
that supporters may not want to think about it now (which is understandable
in a way), but the best club's always look ahead and ensure that their
planning, in terms of acquiring their prime targets, is well ahead of the
pack. That is crucial for West Ham because our success in the transfer
market over the last couple of seasons will have been noted by rival PL
clubs and you can be sure that they will be watching us very closely in
future. Whereas previously there has not been intense competition for the
likes of Kouyate, Lanzini and Payet, that is unlikely to be the case next
summer. There is the danger that rival clubs will be monitoring our transfer
moves and actively looking to guzump us. Also crucially, while we will have
increased transfer funds, thanks to the new TV deal, so will the other PL
clubs. That is why we need (as far as modern media/social media and agent
machinations allow) to keep our cards close to our chest and try to
progress/tie up prospective deals at the earliest possible opportunity.
This season has shown how increased resources in the English game has
enabled more clubs to acquire better class players and close the gap with
the established PL elite. West Ham have been one of the principle
beneficiaries of this positive development and, of course, we all want that
to continue to be the case. I have no doubt that the combination of Bilic
and Tony Henry's identification of player targets, David Sullivan's
industry/shrewdness in transfer negotiations, the recent marked progress of
the club and the Olympic Stadium factor will all conspire to maintain the
club's momentum in this crucial respect.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Enner Valencia strop will test Slaven Bilic's famous man management skills
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United striker Enner Valencia threw an almighty strop which will
test his manager ahead of crucial games against Southampton and Liverpool.
The jet-heeled striker had endured a difficult night in the 2-0 win over
Aston Villa last time out as the visitors sat back following the early
sending off of star man Jordan Ayew at Upton Park. With very little space to
operate in the Ecuadorian struggled to get a sight of goal. When he did have
a chance he actually stopped what looked a certain goal from James Tomkins
by blazing his goalbound effort over the bar from close range. Valencia has
been in good form recently scoring a brace against both Bournemouth and
Manchester City and picking up a number of assists. And he added another
assist to his tally when he broke away at lightning speed from a late Villa
corner to set up midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate for the decisive second goal on
83 minutes.
Childish but passionate
But when he was sensibly substituted moments later Valencia showed his
displeasure, gesturing, throwing his hands up in the air and shaking his
head towards the bench. He blanked Bilic's outstretched hand as he stormed
towards his seat on the bench and ignored the manager as he tried to call
after him to shake his hand properly before throwing his gloves to the floor
in a prolonged sulk. The strop was childish and took the gloss off a very
good win for those who witnessed it. And it was also disrespectful to the
player waiting to replace him. However it at least shows Valencia's passion
to play for the Hammers and that he wanted to stay on the pitch and try to
get his goal. But the £12 million star should have taken it in the spirit it
was intended which was to save him for the important games coming up.
Selection headache looming?
One thing it will do is test Bilic's famous man management skills ahead of
crucial games at Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday and at home
to Liverpool in the FA Cup replay next Tuesday. With new signing Emmanuel
Emenike available after signing on loan from Fenerbache and Andy Carroll fit
again to take his place on the bench at St Mary's Valencia's place could be
under pressure. Fast forward to Tuesday and the Hammers could even welcome
back the likes of Manuel Lanzini and Diafra Sakho to give Bilic a real
selection headache going forward.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emenike: I'm not arrogant
Posted By: Samson Otion: February 04, 2016In: SportsNo Comments Print Email
nationonlineng.net
West Ham new signing, Emmanuel Emenike has responded to the report claiming
he was a trouble maker in some of the clubs he has played as he was sacked
by Al Ain of United Arabs Emirates.
"The truth is that I don't give attention to critics, I prefer to hang out
with my friends than opening my phone and be reading what somebody is
writing about me. Such person can't add values to my life so why giving him
attention? "For those who think I am arrogant, it will be difficult to tell
them I am not because it is their mindset and sincerely, it can't add
anything to me. I only need God not critics and he's been wonderful to me up
to this extent. For my family, they know I am not arrogant, for my friends
they know I am not and I will not let that get into my head and become one."
"I learnt to ignore critics from a reputable Africa legend in Samuel Eto'o.
The most decorated African player, scoring goals and winning trophies yet,
he was booed, insulted and disrespected both home and away but he's far
better than those criticizing him. As for me, I am better than my critics.
Meanwhile, it was gathered that Emenike hanged on a whopping $7.5m annual
deal in China to sign for West Ham and the club may resume their interest in
the summer. "He wanted to play for West Ham because there was a huge deal
for him in China, a deal that can make him the highest paid in Africa but I
think the club comeback for him if he plays better and scores goals for West
Ham.," said the source
In confirming the report, Emenike refused to speak on the aborted deal but
is looking forward to his debut.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NIGERIA/ EGYPT AFCON 2017 QUALIFIER: Moses returns to Eagles 0
BY OUR REPORTER ON FEBRUARY 4, 2016 SPORTS
BY GEORGE ALUO
sunnewsonline.com
EVERYTHING now points to West Ham striker Victor Moses staging a return to
the Super Eagles and playing for the very first time under Sunday Oliseh
when Nigeria face Egypt in next month's AFCON 2017 qualifier. Hint to this
effect was dropped yesterday by Oliseh who said the Edo-state born forward
is in his plans ahead of the crucial game. The 25-year-old had scored seven
times in 24 appearances for the Super Eagles since making his international
debut in 2012. According to Goal.com, Oliseh said the former England youth
international could be handed a call-up when he rolls out his squad for the
match later this month. "Yes, Victor Moses is still in our plan. All the
players who are eligible to play for us are still in our plans aside those
who have retired from the national team," Oliseh stated. The Eagles gaffer
was however, quick in adding: "The truth is that I will put a 'but' to it at
the moment. This team started with the game against Tanzania and is
evolving. We have played 14 games since I took charge of the team and we
lost our first official game against Guinea at the African Nations
Championship. We have like seven or eight players from the CHAN team that
are good enough to play for the main Super Eagles. It's good when you have a
large pool of players to pick from, so everyone will have to fight for a
place in the team."
Nigeria is second behind the Pharaohs in Group G's qualifying zone with
four points from two games, and the Eagles must defeat the north Africans
in March to qualify automatically for the championship billed for Gabon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic provides Andy Carroll fitness update with eye on Southampton
clash
London 24
06:35 04 February 2016
Pete Evans
Boss Slaven Bilic can add new signing Emmanuel Emenike to his squad when
they head to Southampton on Saturday, as well as welcoming back fellow
striker Andy Carroll from injury. 1 Issues following Emenike's arrival from
Turkey meant he could not be involved in their 2-0 win over Aston Villa on
Tuesday night while that Premier League clash came too soon for former
Newcastle striker Carroll. Carroll limped out of the 3-1 away win at
Bournemouth earlier this month but has returned to training and Bilic
revealed he should be in the matchday squad against the Saints. "Andy
started to train with us on Monday, and he should be in the squad for
Southampton if everything goes well," he said. West Ham remain in the hunt
for a European place and are just a point behind Manchester United in fifth
going into the weekend.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady celebrates two major West Ham stadium milestones on Twitter
HITC
Damien Lucas
Work to transform the Olympic Stadium into West Ham United's new home truly
got under way this week. The Hammers will leave their beloved Boleyn Ground
home of 112 years for the 54,000 seater stadium in Stratford this summer.
Until now the club's fans have only had artists' impressions of how the
stadium will look once it has been transformed to go on. But with the move
just over three months away, the first true signs of West Ham-ification has
started.
'It's happening!'
Hammers chief executive executive Karren Brady has taken to Twitter to
announce that West Ham's claret and blue seating is on its way after a
section of the old ones were removed to form the club's name and emblem
across the main stand. "Exciting! It's happening the new West Ham seats
(are) going into our stadium, as well as a new pitch," Brady posted on
Twitter.
According to the club's official website, containers holding the first batch
of seats off production are being shipped to Stratford, with the blue seats
set to follow in the coming weeks.
Just the first step
The seats are just the first step towards making the Olympic Stadium West
Ham's new home. The Champions statue currently situated outside Upton Park
will be relocated to the new ground while the John Lyall Gates will be moved
inside the club shop at the Olympic Park. A huge digital wrap will go around
the entire stadium on the outside turning it into one giant TV screen while
inside at either end there will be two of the biggest TVs in the world,
measuring in at over 27 metres each. Branding around the ground will also be
in claret and blue as are the changing rooms and the club's new pitch will
be a Desso GrassMaster which is a mix of artificial and natural grass and
have been used in various guises at Upton Park since 2002.
London Mayor Boris Johnson says the move to the Olympic Stadium makes West
Ham the 'biggest project of their kind in Europe' and has backed them to
change the face of London when they move.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauro Zarate celebrates scoring stunning winner, says West Ham a mistake
HITC
Dan Coombs
Mauro Zarate is putting his spell at West Ham behind him. Mauro Zarate is
putting his West Ham spell quickly behind him, proving an instant success
with Fiorentina. The Argentina sealed a permanent move away from Upton Park
late in the transfer window, and is looking a shrewd signing for the Serie A
side. He scored a superb winner last night in their win over Carpi,
collecting the ball on the edge of the box, jinking past an opponent, before
curling it across the goalkeeper and into the bottom corner. It was a goal
worthy of winning any game, and may have West Ham supporters wondering if
they made a mistake letting him leave, and especially so cheaply. Zarate
however is not looking back, and believes he should never have joined the
Hammers in the first place, admitting he moved there because of the money he
was offered. He was quoted by Football Italia, speaking to Sky Italia: "I
decided to help a team that was challenging for important targets. "West Ham
was a mistake and I didn't think it through. The Premier League is fun and
obviously the wages are very different, so that swayed my decision at the
time. "We won and must continue like this. The team has important players
and we have to prove our worth." Zarate clearly has talent but lacked
consistency at West Ham, and his post game comments last night suggest
perhaps his heart was never really in it.
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