From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
I want to wish Michail Antonio the best of luck as England prepare to play
their first World Cup qualifier at Wembley against Malta on Saturday. This
is another fantastic opportunity for him and the key for him now is to keep
getting selected in the squad and eventually his chance will come. There is
a new man in charge and I am sure that Michail will be keen to impress him
and show the form which has made him such a star performer in the opening
part of the season. You wonder where we would be without his five goals this
season and he is getting stronger and a major threat to the opposition.
There is no reason why he cannot show the same kind of form for England. The
best stat you can look for in a player is the number of goals you score in a
season. It catches the eye of the national manager and gets you an England
call-up. You cannot question his work-rate and people are aware of his
ability. He now wants to get into the England team.
Michail also has a great personality and you may have seen the stories in
the national press about him driving 135 miles to present his West Ham shirt
at a charity event in Birmingham to help with an auction for neonatal units
across the region. That typifies what Michail is about and it became very
evident when I first met him that he is a caring person. He never forgets
his upbringing and recently went back to his secondary school to meet up
with his former teachers and share his experiences with the current
students. You can read that story on whufc.com over the weekend. I still
remember the early part of his career when he couldn't get into the team at
West Ham and I told him that his time would come. He has now done that and
is now in the England squad. He has had a great upbringing progressing
through the ranks from non-league and fighting every inch of the way. It is
a tough learning curve and all about character building.
Michail is one of many players who are away on international duty and I wish
the best of luck to all of our players who are representing their countries
over the next few days. I want internationals playing for our football club
and I hope they come back injury free.
Talking of injuries, I am delighted that Aaron Cresswell managed to play 50
minutes in a practice game at the Club's training ground on Thursday.
Aaron's return to the first-team will give everyone a lift and is a bit of
good news that we are looking for. He is an important player for the team
and we need to start keeping some clean sheets again.
I have to mention the Dimitri Payet goal against Middlesbrough last weekend.
A goal like that can help change a season and it certainly lifted the
players, the manager, the board and all the fans. Dimi is a remarkable
player and it was a special goal. People talk about the famous Paolo Di
Canio goal against Wimbledon but this will be up there with it. We are
desperate to get out of the bottom three and hopefully things will look a
lot different in the next few weeks if we manage to get a few victories
under our belt. I am not a big fan of the international break but I was
fortunate enough to watch the Ryder Cup last weekend. The standard of golf
that we being played was on another level. I am still celebrating my first
ever hole in one but when I see these guys in action, it makes me realise I
have still got a long way to go! They keep going for these younger guys to
get into the team and I think my chances have probably gone now! It would be
nice if one of them could fluff a shot. It would make me feel a lot better
about my own game! They simply have natural ability and make it look so
effortless. Despite the result, it was a joy to watch.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Johnson - Antonio deserves England call-up
WHUFC.com
Evening Standard football reporter Simon Johnson has been covering England
at major tournaments for the last few years and has welcomed the call-up of
Michail Antonio into the squad.
Johnson says he made a big impression on the national media in the build up
to the first World Cup qualifier against Slovakia and deserves the chance to
show he can compete at the highest level.....
Michail Antonio definitely warrants a place in the England squad and
provides a different kind of threat. He is obviously very good in the air
and can score goals from midfield.
It would be good to see him get his chance in the next two qualifiers
against Malta or Slovenia.
He is likely to be on the substitutes bench but would be a great option for
Gareth Southgate to bring into the action.
I think all the journalists who cover England on a regular basis were hugely
impressed with him when he did a press conference before the first game
against Slovakia.
I can't ever remember a debutant having that impression on everyone in the
room.
Normally it can be a bit daunting for a player who has just received their
first call-up, but he was so confident and had everyone eating out the palm
of his hand with the amusing stories he was telling.
Someone even applauded him when he went to leave the room which shows what
people thought about him.
He was very entertaining and that confidence can only be a good thing as it
shows he is not afraid of anything and felt comfortable being on the England
stage.
It is refreshing to see someone like that and you can see why he is so
popular.
With Gareth Southgate now taking charge this is a chance for everyone to
impress.
Some people feared that with Sam gone, Michail might not get into the squad
but Gareth has kept faith in him and rightly so.
He looked ready to go last time and when England are crying out for a plan B
he gives you that option because he is so good in the air and gives you that
extra threat. He can certainly make a difference.
I know that Aaron Cresswell is also close to making a first-team return and
if he can regain the form that he showed last season he will also have a
chance of breaking into the squad.
Danny Rose appears to be the first choice left back at the moment but Aaron
can certainly challenge for the back-up position and compete with the likes
of Luke Shaw and Ryan Bertrand.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Calleri - The best is yet to come
WHUFC.com
Jonathan Calleri is still adapting to life in England following his
season-long loan move to West Ham United and admits the 'best is yet to
come'.
Calleri arrived with a big pedigree from Argentina having been the top
goalscorer in the Copa Libertadores and netting 39 goals in 90 appearances
over the last two season.
The 23-year-old has made four appearances as a substitute in the Premier
League and started the EFL Cup game against Accrington Stanley, but is yet
to get off the mark.
With Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho ruled out through injury,
Calleri knows he has a great chance to impress Slaven Bilic and feels it
will not be long before he starts getting among the goals on a regular
basis.
Calleri said: "The fans have not seen the best of me just yet and I know I
can give a lot more.
"The style of play here is very different and it can take a few months to
settle in. I remember it took a while for Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano
to settle in and then they did really well. I am hoping that I can leave my
mark at the Club.
"The move is going really well at the moment and I really love the city of
London, especially walking around and taking in the sights.
"I am finding it a bit difficult in terms of the language and the style of
play at the moment.
"But I know in a few months time, once I have fully settled in that I will
be able to show everyone what I can do and make the West Ham fans happy."
Calleri needs no reminding that the last Argentine forward to play for the
Club was a certain Carlos Tevez who became a cult hero with the Hammers
fans.
The young forward is well aware of the impact that Tevez had at the east
London club and played a major role in helping the Club escape relegation
back in 2007.
Calleri says he would love to follow in his footsteps and build a strong
relationship with the West Ham fans this season.
Calleri added: "I would love to follow in the footsteps of Carlos Tevez. He
is a unique player and in Argentina people still speak about what he
achieved at West Ham and in England.
"We all remember how he saved the Club from relegation and I hope I can
achieve just a quarter of what he achieved here."
Calleri was forced to miss the 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough through injury,
but he is hoping to be back in contention for the next game against Crystal
Palace and is confident the team can move away from the bottom three in the
next few weeks.
"The draw with Middlesbrough will hopefully be the start of a good run for
us. The international break comes at a good time as it means we can take
stock and reflect as a team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimi on target for Les Bleus yet again
WHUFC.com
Following his superb strike against Middlesbrough, Dimtri Payet continued
his goalscoring form with a strike for France
Les Bleus were taking on Bulgaria in FIFA World Cup qualifying
There was also a goal for Switzerland U21 international and Hammers summer
signing Edimilson Fernandes
Hammers star Dimitri Payet bagged his seventh goal for national side France
on Friday, scoring in their 4-1 victory over Bulgaria. Fresh off the back of
his solo wonder goal against Middlesbrough last weekend, the 29-year-old
impressed in FIFA World Cup qualifying, notching his side's second goal to
give them the lead in Paris. Didier Deschamps' men had previously fallen
behind to Mihail Aleksandrov's early penalty, but Atletico Madrid forward
Kevin Gameiro equalised for the hosts midway through the opening period.
Then, just three minutes later, Payet – who starred during the summer as
hosts France reached the final of UEFA Euro 2016 – found space on the left
hand side and curled into the box. Though nobody in blue was able to turn
home his centre, there was little the Bulgaria stopper could do about the
Hammers man's ball in as it found the far corner of the net. Antoine
Griezmann added a third before half time before club colleague Gameiro
grabbed his second of the match with half an hour remaining to round off the
scoring. The French face one of their tougher Group A tests on Monday as
they travel to the Netherlands to take on the Oranje.
Also in winning action was Canadian defender Doneil Henry, who started and
played the full match for his side in their 4-0 friendly win over
Mauritania. The American outfit thrashed their North African opponents –
ranked 129th in the world – thanks to goals from Steven Vitoria, Marcus
Haber, and two from Tosaint Ricketts.
Payet was not the only Hammer on the scoresheet on Friday, however – summer
signing Edimilson Fernandes scored Switzerland U21s' only goal in their 2-1
defeat to Norway in Drammen. Norway took the lead on the stroke of half time
before Fernandes thought he'd given his side a point in UEFA Euro U21
Championship qualifying, but the hosts hit back with eleven minutes left to
steal the three points.
Elsewhere in U21 Euro qualifying, West Ham midfielder Josh Cullen –
currently on loan at Bradford City – played the full 90 minutes for the
Republic of Ireland's U21 side as they were beaten 3-1 by Serbia's
youngsters.
Everton's Courtney Duffus gave the Boys in Green the lead, but the visitors
hit three without reply to seal a win.
Reece Oxford was on the bench for England's U20s as they beat Germany 3-1 in
Huddersfield, meanwhile the U19s were 3-1 winners in Croatia though
goalkeeper Nathan Trott – on his first call-up – did not feature.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dicks - We need our big players
WHUFC.com
West Ham United coaching assistant Julian Dicks has stressed the importance
of having our key players back in first-team contention as the Club look to
move clear of the bottom three.
Dicks is working hard with the rest of the coaching staff and manager Slaven
Bilic to help turn the Club's fortunes around following a frustrating start
to the campaign.
Dimitri Payet's wonder goal against Middlesbrough in the last game helped
salvage a point and the team are now hoping to get back on the winning trail
when they face Crystal Palace on 15 October.
The Club have received a major lift in the build-up to the game with Aaron
Cresswell making his first appearance since suffering knee ligament damage
during the pre-season trip to Austria.
Dicks believes his return will boost everyone in the squad and says it is
crucial that the big name players are back in first-team contention.
Dicks said: "Aaron is a fantastic player and we have missed him. Arthur did
very well when he came into the team and then got injured.
"Aaron has been missed as well and it was great to see him get 50 minutes
under his belt in a training ground match.
"Hopefully he will have no reaction and be in contention for the game
against Crystal Palace.
"It helps having your big players back in the team. We have missed Andy
Carroll and Andre Ayew and you need them when things are not going well.
They can turn a poor game into a good game with a bit of brilliance."
Dicks has no doubts there is enough quality in the squad to see them move
clear of the danger zone and believes the players can play a big role in
helping to make London Stadium one of the best atmospheres in the country.
Dicks added: "All we have ever asked from the players is for them to go out
and give 100 per cent in every game. It has not changed since I was playing.
"We all know what West Ham are about – we have ups and downs. We had a great
season last year and it was going to be hard to do the same.
"We know we have not worked hard enough but the boys gave everything in the
first half against Middlesbrough. It faded in the second half but we have to
settle for a 1-1 draw and we have to take that.
"You don't want to keep losing games because it does affect your confidence.
Obviously the fans get frustrated as well so it is important we got a point.
"This has been a big transition and the new Stadium is impressive. Teams
want to play there because it is such a fantastic stadium and we have to
stop them doing that.
"I am sure we will see a much better atmosphere when we start winning games
and it was the same at Upton Park.
"The new Stadium is a massive ground and it is down to the players to help
change that. They need to give the crowd something to cheer about – whether
it be a goal or a good tackle, they will get behind you.
"We have some good individual players but you cannot always rely on the
likes of Dimi and Manu to get you the goals. We need to work collectively as
a team together. That is the players, management and the fans. We all need
to stick together."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio makes special return to secondary school
WHUFC.com
Hammers favourite Michail Antonio took a trip down memory lane when he paid
a visit to his secondary school in south London.
The Wandsworth-born winger made a successful return to Southfields Academy –
where he was given a hero's welcome by current students – and greeted fondly
by his former teachers and members of staff.
The Hammers' topscorer this season said: "It's great to be back at my old
school. It's always nice to have the opportunity to come back here, a lot
changes every time I come – in the music rooms they're using Macs instead of
PCs, which maybe shows my age! It's always nice to come back, I've really
enjoyed it.
"I've come back before to talk to the kids to try and inspire them by
spreading a positive vibe and saying that you can achieve anything you
want."
It was during his time at Southfields that the then 16-year-old Tooting &
Mitcham player, described by Deputy Head teacher David Holt as a "naughty
but not bad" pupil began to take his football seriously.
Holt continued: "It's absolutely superb that Michail comes back, you can't
put a price on it, and he's a superb role model. Particularly for an
inner-city, multi-ethnic school like ours; to have such a positive character
is absolutely fantastic.
"He always has a really positive effect on all the staff and the students.
As a sportsman growing up, you name it he'd put his hand to it, he had very
good hand eye coordination, basketball, table tennis, badminton and as you
can see, he's a supreme athlete.
"I never had to speak to him about his behaviour or attitude on the pitch;
that only ever happened in the classroom, and when I did, he was always very
contrite."
Now the best part of a decade later, Antonio, part of Gareth Southgate's
new-look England side, is preparing for what could well be his international
debut as the Three Lions face Malta later today.
Holt, much like everyone closely connected to the 26-year-old, is excitedly
awaiting his international bow: "I'm desperate for him to become a full
international, I texted him when he got his first call up and he was
absolutely chuffed."
While his meteoric journey from non-League to Premier League stardom is now
a well-known one, the man himself clearly has fond memories of the place
where it all began.
"When I was a kid I thought you had to go through a Club's academy to become
a professional. But I don't come here just to talk about how to become a
footballer, it's more about having that drive that you need to have to
succeed in any industry and any walk of life.
"It's very important that players take the time to give back to the
community. If I was 16 and a professional footballer visited, I would've
gone crazy, I'd be so excited. I'd definitely want a photo and things like
that, so to be in that position is good.
"Whenever I speak to kids I always stress how important it is to keep up
your education, because whatever stage in life you're at, a good education
is always important."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cresswell - I cannot wait to play at London Stadium
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell says he is dreaming of walking out in front of nearly 60,000
fans on a regular basis and cannot wait to play his first game at London
Stadium.
Cresswell is hoping to make his long-awaited comeback against Crystal Palace
next weekend after being forced to miss the start of the season with a knee
ligament injury.
The former Hammer of the Year has stepped up his fitness over the last few
weeks and successfully came through his first game when he played 50 minutes
in a training ground match last Thursday.
Cresswell is now hoping to help his team-mates get back on the winning trail
as they look to move away from the bottom three and is counting the days
until he can make his first appearance at the Hammers magnificent new home.
Cresswell said: "I played in the final ever game at the Boleyn Ground and
was then looking forward to playing the first game at the new Stadium, so to
miss it was a big blow.
"I am really looking forward to walking out the tunnel in front of 60,000
fans and it is something you dream of. I am looking forward to playing my
first game there.
"The new Stadium is fantastic and when you look around the place it is
everything that you could ask for.
"I can just imagine when we have the really big games and I know the
atmosphere is going to be unbelievable and it will be special."
Cresswell has nothing but praise for the way the West Ham medical staff have
helped made a speedy recovery after initial reports suggested he could face
four to six months on the sidelines following the injury he sustained on the
Club's pre-season tour to Austria.
The talented full-back also has a special word for his partner Jessica who
helped him come through a difficult spell when he first suffered the injury
and does not have to look after his every need anymore!
Cresswell added: "I am 26 and this is the first big injury I have suffered
during my career. Hopefully I will be able to get over this little setback
and stay injury free for a long time.
"I was stuck in a knee brace for four to six weeks and it was hard to get
the knee bending. I could only bend it so much and it was difficult for me
just to get out of bed and walk down the stairs.
"There was some dark days during that time but I can now see some light at
the end of the tunnel.
"The missus was great to me during that time and it felt like I had a little
bell by the side of the couch that I kept pressing every time I wanted
something!
"It was little things from wanting a cup of tie or getting the food on, but
she was fantastic during that period and helped me through it as well when I
couldn't walk or get down the stairs.
"Everyone told me to keep positive and that helped me get through it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium operaters foil THIRTEEN break in attempts
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th October 2016
By: Staff Writer
Olympic Stadium operaters LS185 claim they have prevented no less than 13
break-ins since a group of young Londoners were filmed running amok inside
the arena. Earlier this week we revealed how a group of London-based
YouTubers broke into the Olympic Stadium and filmed themselves running
across the pitch and sitting on the stadium's brand new, £270million roof.
And LS185 have claimed that since the group - who call themselves Night
Scape - made the press with their exploits, no less than 13 copycat attempts
have been foiled by stadium security - none of whom were present earlier in
the week.
According to the Mail Online, "security firm London 185 reviewed their
procedures in the immediate aftermath and have since thwarted 13 separate
efforts day and night." There are no plans to arrest those involved with the
Night Scape video, despite them trespassing in the Olympic Stadium grounds.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A new West Ham Supporters Trust
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th October 2016
By: PC Hammer
Discussion has been in overdrive in all forms of media about our wonderful
club's current malaise and while we all hope it will begin to pass (starting
with a win against Crystal Palace next week) a number of people feel very
strongly about a number of issues.
Of primary concern has been the lack of any central voice from the fans to
the board, media or social media. Our websites are superb and from reading
fans forums it is clear there are many excellent / diverse ideas out there -
but actually where do they all lead?
Of course, some may be read by people in the media or at West Ham but it is
clear the majority of correspondence to the club is not replied to, making
people angry, upset and feeling they are not being listened to.
Any response usually boils down to a tweet from the Dave's or a club
statement – very impersonal. The SAB (and the new 'Supporter Feedback
Forum', to which KUMB was not invited) has been shown to be a puppet in the
hands of the club.
In response to this it has been decided to call a meeting at the Hammers
Social / Supporters Club (HSC) in Castle Street off Green Street for a 3pm
start on Saturday, 8th October to propose the formation of a supporters
Trust.
It is noted that such efforts have been made previously and failed but there
seems to be a groundswell of opinion that this time it will succeed, as many
from previous attempts have put forward their names, ideas and groundwork
covered.
Many fans are unhappy (to say the least) with the move and all its nuances
while again there is great support from many for the supporters club itself
to move to Stratford. We have lost so much that we feel we just have to do
something and keep some things going.
West Ham seem to have washed their hands of the HSC, while Newham Council do
not seem too bothered at this fine institution.
All being well the Supporters Trust will be a real place based at the HSC,
with West Ham fans at its core giving fans a chance to voice any concerns
they have which can then be put forward to the club.
We would hope to eventually be respected by West Ham as other football
Supporters' Trusts around the country are. We will keep a check on what goes
on with the club and being there to represent the interest of our fans going
forward.
Many will say too little, too late but it seems now, more than ever, us fans
need something. Be clear, this Trust is not an anti-OS crusade but one in
the name of the fans of West Ham to keep the spirit of the Boleyn going as
we venture into our first season at the new stadium.
Your support and input will be crucial and gratefully received as the Trust
gets off the ground.
For those unable to make the 8th October a second meeting has already been
arranged for Saturday, 22nd October again at the HSC with a 12 noon start so
business can be completed for us to go see the Hammers smash Sunderland.
Thanks and Come on you bloody Irons!
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randy on a roll
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th October 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's reserve goalkeeper Darren Randolph played a starring role as the
Republic of Ireland got their World Cup 2018 qualifying campaign back on
track last night.
The Irish - who drew their opening game of the group phase in Serbia last
month - ran out 1-0 winners against a resolute Georgia at the Aviva Stadium
last night, thanks to Seamus Coleman's first ever international goal.
However there was an element of luck involved as the visitors struck
Randolph's woodwork - twice - within a matter of seconds, when Mchedlidze's
close-range shot cannoned off the bar before Guram Kashia's follow-up header
rebounded off the post moments later.
The Hammers 'keeper was however called in action shortly before the interval
when he was forced to divert a stinging shot from Mchedlidze, again - the
first shot on target during the match.
Fortunately for Randolph the second half proved to be a much quieter affair
and he was rarely called into action. Everton's Coleman scored the game's
only goal 11 minutes after the restart, ensuring the Irish remain unbeaten.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Shooting the messenger is missing the point
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 7th October 2016
By: Paul Walker
I'm tempted to suggest that the one thing we should not be doing at present
is shooting the messenger…particularly if Simone Zaza is pulling the
trigger, because he'd miss!
Yes, it's Brady-bashing time, an easy target for disgruntled West Ham fans
and there are times I can fully understand that feeling. Our beloved Karren
is so often the one front of house acting like the wicked witch of Highbury.
Now I am loath to even start to defend her, such is the poisonous attitude
to the Baroness of Knightsbridge. And I always feel that millionaires and
billionaires are fair game anyway.
But as the 'culturegate' saga rumbles on, it seems to me she has been
horribly, maybe intentionally, misquoted so that West Ham can be given it's
daily kicking.
You might not like what she stands for in the modern game. I hate her
politics and frankly the way we have all been bullied into a new era, forced
marched to Stratford and a shiny new world of steel and glass..and popcorn.
But surely we all knew what was coming. We all grudgingly knew the way the
owners wanted to take the club, with this ground move, into a brave new
world of corporate entertainment. It was not exactly a shock.
You can take a view whether you want to be part of it. But you cannot say
you were not warned. In some ways, its our Brexit. Many folk, about 52 per
cent, voted for change and a new idea of how the country should be run. They
even believed some lies on a bus about the NHS.
Now we have got there, we all want to know exactly what it will look like in
the future. And the same goes for West Ham, we may have been taken in by a
few porkies even if we saw the reasoning for the move and went with it. Now
we are not too happy with what it looks like and want a few more answers.
But what exactly did we expect from a lady who was employed to re-brand,
beef -up, and re-launch our club at a totally new level of commercial
activity? It doesn't matter whether you or I flinch at being called
customers or that the whole money making machine that football now is leaves
us depressed.
The lady was just doing her job. She was brought in by G&S to revamp our
administration from top to bottom. She was brought in to clinch the Olympic
Stadium deal. She was brought in to make sure the corporate hospitality side
of our business was dragged into the 21st century.
She was told to make sure the boxes were full, the restaurants, clubs and
suites were bursting at the seems, that plenty of posh bums were placed on
posh, padded seats. She wasn't asked to make morale judgements about costs
or the history of West Ham and how it is maintained and nurtured.
She was told to get on with it and put our club on a modern financial
footing, no longer the 'circus' as Mark Noble so rightly described the
recent past.
And it has been a success in her, and the board's terms. We have 52,000
season ticket holders, another 50,000 on the waiting list and plenty of new,
nouveau riche fans with their children who are not bothered about how far
their seats are from the pitch or whether the great unwashed in the BML want
to stand up or not.
To get to where we want to be, we had to attract new fans. Different fans,
people who didn't want or were not able to get into the Boleyn. Because,
sadly in modern terms, that's the only way this club will ever expand and
make money.
Now sometimes she can be irritatingly arrogant, dismissive, impersonal and
even disinterested in a side of the game that makes no money, and does not
appeal to the middle classes who now want their football gentrified and not
presented to them with the smell of burnt onions, strange green liquor and
urine lapping round your shoes in the loos.
She was sent out by the Davids to clean up our act. Make it more appealing
and attract a lot more money. Whether you like it or not, and you are
entitled to an opinion, that is the only way we will compete and survive in
the real world.
I know folk who have been going to non-league games, to cling onto the
atmosphere and the old ways. Me too, my local side are in the top three of
the National League and I can stand where I want, have a beer and a laugh.
If you want to be like Millwall, Orient, Charlton or the rest of the lower
division clubs who have been cut adrift by the corporate culture, OK, go for
it. And belief me I can understand the desire to run a mile from the glossy
new image. But don't blame Lady K.
I must admit to being concerned about her a couple of years ago when she did
one of those fawning TV programmes with Piers Morgan into her life story.
Two Gunners together. She talked about her fight to champion women in
football, she talked about the Olympic Stadium and her project.
But she did not mention West Ham by name at any time. I felt then that she
could be embarking on her project anywhere, with any club, that it was us
did not really matter too much more than great objectives in the future.
She is, though, always wide open to ridicule. She gives a speech at a event
at Stamford Bridge aimed at promoting and explaining the growing corporate
image of football. So when she talks about us not having a culture in that
field, she is blatantly talking about corporate and commercial planning and
not the proud East End legacy of our club.
So she gets stitched up by a Guardian writer who tweets her speech as she is
making it. When the word culture comes up he implies that she may be talking
about corporate stuff. He knew full well what she was talking about. But
lets not throw water on a fire before it has caught light. From then on it's
all guns blazing and Brady finds herself being pilloried for the assumption
that she is slagging off our history.
What she has done is put into sharp contrast the two sides in this debate
about football's future. Those that want to have their entertainment in a
close-knit, fervent, brutally-honest stadium. It's what we have been brought
up on and what we love.
But the other side, sadly, says that you must make big money, have big
stadiums and full houses to get anywhere and you must rinse the customer for
as much as is possible and more to make any form of success a reality. That
is the new way, the only way really, and it hurts to see it. John Dillon (a
big West Ham fan) in the Evening Standard this week, expressed these views
of the culture clash much better than I have.
If we had won a few more games, produced more of the verve and excitement of
last season, I doubt we would be having these intense conversations. But we
have been frogmarched into the future very, very quickly and there's a lot
of travel sickness about.
And, to be fair, we have been deceived a lot about our new home. I had my
doubts when we were not able to go into the stadium to view our seats when
we were invited to talk to the now infamous reservation centre lot. And we
were not even allowed to take a snapshot of the computer image either. There
was something to hide, and we now know it was the exact distances we all are
from the action.
The relentless desire to sell tickets at all costs to make the thing work, a
tunnel vision intent to grind any opposition into the dust, has created this
sea of resentment. And the incompetence of our new owners has just made
things worse.
This week I have read 11 pages of minutes from the fans' meeting with the
club over the whole sorry saga. And Lady K chaired that meeting. It was
very, very detailed, all the complaints I have heard got a hearing.
Funnily enough, the worries I raised earlier this week about the Chelsea
game, policing levels and the sale of beer bottles inside the stadium and in
full view of the pitch, have been addressed. From now on all booze will be
decanted into plastic mugs, just like at the Boleyn. Why does it take the
nonsense of bottle throwing at the Middlesbrough game to get the owners and
caterers to act like responsible grown-ups?
The extent of that meeting and the response of Lady K suggested the club are
taking the problems seriously, many minds seem to have been concentrated.
They want those extra 3,000 seats. We will see, it's about time.
The bottom line now is that there is no turning back, no Boleyn to reclaim
mainly because we don't own it any more. There is nothing we can do about
where we are now. Apart from fight for a fair deal for fans.
There is a strong clamour for a genuine supporters action group to engage
with the club and the ground owners, not to just have people losing their
season tickets on the say-so of a steward. That's a kangaroo court and
unthinkable in a modern society, everyone has the right of appeal. I hope
the club get their heads around this one because many, many folk are unhappy
with the way our real fans are being treated.
But we must look forward. |There is no point in petitions, singing about
going home is just that, a sad song with no real objective. Lady K did not
insult our culture, now we have to decide whether we are West Ham or not.
Make your minds up for one reason. We are the culture of our club, wherever
we play.
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE TRANSFER EXCLUSIVE: IDRIS KANU'S MOVE EXPLAINED
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 8 OCTOBER 2016 AT 9:55PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
I was as surprised as anyone when I heard that talented youngster Idris Kanu
had joined Aldershot Town. The 16 year old was very highly rated at the club
and the development team were very disappointed when he refused to sign a
new deal. It was thought that young Idris was looking for a move to a big
academy and he had a trial with Nicky Butt at Manchester United. He made his
debut for the Manchester United Academy scoring two in a 5-1 win over
Middlesbrough. He looked set to join them but the deal never materialised
much to the surprise of the Manchester giants.
I was curious to know why he had joined Aldershot as were many people, no
disrespect to them, but I expected a higher standard. As it turns out ex
West Ham Assistant academy director James Rowe is the assistant manager at
"The Shots". The 31 year old left West Ham after he was disciplined
following complaints of "poor practise" in his dealings with young players
after a parent complained to the club.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/west-ham/11685218/West-Ham-d
iscipline-new-academy-coach-for-poor-practice.html
Idris' agent is in fact Colwyn Rowe who is James' father. The move has
caused some surprise to various academies who had been scouting Idris for a
potential move and of course West Ham themselves who were very disappointed
to lose the player. It appears that this family link has been the key
ingredient in the move.
Idris came on as an 86 minute substitute today as Aldershot beat Solihull
Moors 2-0 in their Vanarama National League encounter and impressed with the
touches that he had.
(We would appreciate our information being quoted if it is used)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SATURDAY AFTERNOON NEWS ROUND UP: IS RAVEL MORRISON SET TO RETURN TO THE
PREMIER LEAGUE?
BY BEN COOPER ON 8 OCTOBER 2016 AT 1:26PM
TheWestHamWayco.uk
Here is a round up of the stories concerning the hammers this Saturday
afternoon.
Karren Brady has hit back at her critics, insisting the grumbles over West
Ham's move to the London Stadium will fade and die once Slaven Bilic's side
start winning. Karren has also backed the manager to recover from a poor
start to the season. "We have great faith in our manager and we sense no
problems among the players. They all desperately want to do well and they
will." (via The Sun and HITC)
Chelsea await decision on cup allocation due to London stadium safety
concerns. West Ham could be fined for not giving Chelsea the full allocation
of 10% (via The Express)
Jonathan Calleri is still adapting to life in England following his
season-long loan move to West Ham United and admits the 'best is yet to
come'. (via whufc.com)
Branding expert Peter Knapp has backed West Ham to become a 'super brand'
comparable to Manchester city (via The Evening Standard)
Rigobert Song: There have been unconfirmed reports that Rigobert Song
tragically died in hospital last night. Thankfully, this news does appear to
be incorrect and nothing more than a hoax. (via Various sources)
Julian Dicks: "We need our big players." Dicks has no doubts there is enough
quality in the squad to see them move clear of the danger zone and believes
the players can play a big role in helping to make London Stadium one of the
best atmospheres in the country. (via whufc.com)
Dimitri Payet bagged his seventh goal for national side France on Friday,
scoring in their 4-1 victory over Bulgaria. (via whufc.com)
Aaron Cresswell says he'll be stronger for recovering from his knee injury.
(via Tribal Football)
A fourth arrest has been made following crowd trouble at West Ham vs.
Middlesbrough. A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of violence
disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. (via Gazzete Live)
Michail Antonio could earn a second new deal after showing exceptional form.
(via The Mirror).
Trevor Sinclair has said that Dimitri Payet proved this summer that he cares
about West Ham more than money by staying at the club, and believes that he
will only get better as he is something of a late bloomer. (via whufc.com
and HITC)
Ravel Morrison is set for sensational return to the Premier league as Lazio
sanction the loan listing of the 23 year old. (via 90 min)
Did we miss anything? please drop us a comment or start a discussion on our
forums.
Also, we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who backed the site
and voted for us in the football blogging awards (The FBA's). Your efforts
helped us make the shortlist for the best new blog! The final round of
voting is now live, please click here to vote again.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham star Michail Antonio could earn SECOND new deal after sensational
early season form
22:30, 7 OCT 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
The England international has been challenged to maintain his performances
by manager Slaven Bilic after scoring five goals in seven Premier League
games
The Mirror
PA WireMiMichail Antonio could earn himself his second new deal in a year at
West Ham. The former Forest midfielder, 26, has had an impressive start to
the season - despite his club's struggles - with five goals in seven Premier
League appearances. Antonio's form has also seen him break into the England
squad, keeping his place under Gareth Southgate after being called up during
the short reign of Sam Allardyce. Antonio signed a new, four-year contract
with West Ham in July this year, in recognition of a fine first season at
the club. The Hammers could improve that deal even further if he is able to
maintain his consistency this season. Slaven Bilic revealed last month that
he held talks with Antonio following his debut call-up to ensure he keeps
his feet on the ground. Bilic said: "We've had a few talks. Make no mistake,
he was confident before, he's a very confident lad. "All he has to do now is
not to change - not to change the way he plays, the way he trains,
everything, and we have to help him with that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham unable to give Chelsea enough tickets for upcoming EFL Cup tie
13:24, 8 OCT 2016 UPDATED 13:25, 8 OCT 2016
BY LIAM CORLESS
Chelsea are entitled to claim 10 per cent of the stadium's 57,000 capacity
but West Ham have told their rivals they won't be able to comply with that
request
The Mirror
West Ham's difficult bedding in period at the London Stadium shows no sign
of letting up, with the club unable to offer enough tickets to Chelsea for
the EFL Cup tie on October 26. Chelsea are entitled to claim 10 per cent of
the entire stadium's capacity, which is 57,000, but West Ham have told their
London rivals they won't be able to comply with that request. So far this
season, visiting teams have only been given around 3,000 tickets at the
stadium, but EFL Cup rules mean Chelsea are allowed to request almost double
that amount. However, there are a number of issues at the stadium that West
Ham are yet to iron out and Chelsea's request has been denied. Those issues
include a limited amount of toilets in the away end, position of the
turnstiles and the position of supporter segregation lines.
West Ham have asked the EFL if they can reduce Chelsea's allocation by 500
tickets. Chelsea said in a statement: "Under EFL Cup rules, away clubs can
claim up to 10 per cent of the stadium's capacity which in the case of the
London Stadium is approximately 5,700 tickets. "We have requested the full
amount. However, due to the current set-up at the stadium this figure is
likely to be revised. "Discussions are ongoing between West Ham, the English
Football League and the stadium authorities, and we are still waiting for
confirmation of our allocation which is expected later next week."
If West Ham are not granted special dispensation to reduce Chelsea's
allocation, they are likely to face an EFL investigation and may have to pay
compensation to their London rivals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"We can never go back": Karren Brady hits back at West Ham critics over
London Stadium saga
09:10, 8 OCT 2016 UPDATED 09:10, 8 OCT 2016
BY MATT LAWLESS
Vice-chairman Brady has come under fire following the club's summer move
from the Boleyn Ground
The Mirror
Karren Brady has hit back at her critics, insisting the grumbles over West
Ham's move to the London Stadium will fade and die once Slaven Bilic's side
start winning. Vice-chairman Brady has come under fire following the club's
summer move from the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers have been beset by huge
teething problems as they attempt to settle into their new home, battling
with a series of issues on and off the field. The team's form has been poor
too. West Ham have made their worst start to a Premier League season since
2003 - when they were relegated. Despite just one win in their opening seven
games, Brady believes Bilic's side will turn the corner as the team are
"desperate" to do well. And she urged supporters to get behind their new
home - because they are never going back to Upton Park. "I believe
absolutely in our move to the London Stadium," wrote Brady in her column for
The Sun . "And nothing, certainly not the Twitter nonsense I have received
before and after the talk I gave about the move, will change our direction.
"It's become a bit of a bandwagon which will disappear to the fading sounds
of grumbling wheels once we start winning home games." The Hammers travel to
London rivals Crystal Palace next weekend, looking for their first win on
the road since last April.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri says he wants to be the next
Carlos Tevez
16:01, 8 OCT 2016 UPDATED 16:44, 8 OCT 2016
BY RORY BRIGSTOCK-BARRON
The on-loan hitman believes it may take him a while to settle in but
eventually he can emulate his compatriot's success in east London
The Mirror
West Ham striker Jonathan Calleri has vowed to emulate the club's last great
Argentine striker, Carlos Tevez . The 23-year-old has failed to get off the
mark since joining on loan from Deportivo Maldonado, despite an impressive
record in his home country. But like compatriots Tevez and Javier
Mascherano, Calleri believes it's only a matter of time before he starts to
impress. Calleri said: "I would love to follow in the footsteps of Carlos
Tevez. He is a unique player and in Argentina people still speak about what
he achieved at West Ham and in England. "We all remember how he saved the
club from relegation and I hope I can achieve just a quarter of what he
achieved here." Calleri told the club website: "The fans have not seen the
best of me just yet and I know I can give a lot more. "The style of play
here is very different and it can take a few months to settle in. I remember
it took a while for Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano to settle in and then
they did really well. I am hoping that I can leave my mark at the club. "The
move is going really well at the moment and I really love the city of
London, especially walking around and taking in the sights. "I am finding it
a bit difficult in terms of the language and the style of play at the
moment. "But I know in a few months time, once I have fully settled in that
I will be able to show everyone what I can do and make the West Ham fans
happy." Hammers fans will be hoping Calleri can come up with the goods
sooner than that, with Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho all missing
with injury. Slaven Bilic's side are in the relegation zone after seven
Premier League games with just four points to their name so far.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment