Daily WHUFC News - 6th October 2016

Hammers unable to take chances in Trophy
WHUFC.com

West Ham United were beaten 3-0 by Wycombe Wanderers in their second
Checkatrade Trophy tie
Coach Liam Manning says it was a tough test for the young Hammers
The east Londoners created a number of chances in the second half but could
not convert any to cut the deficit

West Ham United Academy Coach Liam Manning admitted it was disappointing not
to find the back of the net against Wycombe Wanderers in the Checkatrade
Trophy on Tuesday night. The young Hammers were beaten 3-0 by their League
Two opponents but created a number of opportunities, particularly in the
second half, to cut the deficit and get back into the game. Unfortunately
for the east Londoners, they could not take any but Manning came away from
the clash pleased with the side's performance. He said: "It was definitely
pleasing to see how many chances we created. We had good quality spells of
possession and we should have come away with a couple of goals. "That's the
disappointing thing, that we are creating things well but conceding at the
other end. We're frustrated with the manner of which the goals we conceded.
It's of course a really good experience for us, though. "It's been good
playing against first teams like that, where when we make mistakes we get
punished. It's what the competition's about. "Our job is to get them in the
West Ham first team and testing themselves tonight, they've got to show they
can perform against first teams at this level. It's a great experience for
them and a chance to challenge themselves against senior players."

Terry Westley's side came up against the likes of Adebayo Akinfenwa, the
larger-than-life forward who opened the scoring in the seventh minute, and
Manning revealed it was a huge test for the young Hammers. Of course it was
difficult for us, coming up against physical players like Akinfenwa. The lad
is massive to be fair and he knows how to use it. "It was a great experience
and a problem for our youngsters to learn how to deal with him. I thought
they did much better second half to do that. We were pleased with the
individuals at the back and going forward too. "Marcus [Browne] was
excellent tonight. He stood out and people will go away and have a positive
perception on him and he's shown he can comfortably play higher than this
level. "The timing of the game was difficult for us because of the
international duties of some of our players. We're not making excuses, as
it's a good chance for others to come in and grasp the opportunity. "But it
was hard. Against Northampton [in the next group game], the target will be
coming in and taking our chances better, so we look forward to that test."

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Spector - West Ham have a great following
WHUFC.com

Jonathan Spector will always be remembered for his famous brace against
Manchester United in the League Cup which helped secure a memorable 4-0
victory under the lights at the Boleyn Ground. Spector enjoyed five
memorable years with the east London Club during which time he made over 100
appearances and scored four goals. Two of those came on a snowy night in
east London and saw the American produce one of the best performances of his
career. The 30-year-old is now playing for Birmingham, but he recently made
his first visit to the London Stadium and can see exciting times for West
Ham over the next few years....

I have never been to the London Stadium before and it is completely
different to the Boleyn Ground. I had a great time at West Ham United and
the fans were great towards me. I have some great memories of my time here
and made some great friends. I was at the last ever game at the Boleyn
Ground and it was sad to have that departure from a wonderful stadium and so
many memories I had during my five-years at the Club. I know it has been a
difficult transition, but at the same time you have to move forward and it
is a wonderful new Stadium that they have moved into. Having sold so many
season-tickets is a testament to what the Club have achieved and shows how
far they have come and what it means to the fans. It shows they made the
right decision as they can bring more fans into the Stadium and West Ham
have a great following. It is the second Club for a lot of fans in the
country and everyone follows the Hammers. It will always be a Club that is
close to my heart and I will always follow them. West Ham have a great squad
and Dimitri Payet has been a great signing. The fact he signed a long-term
contract shows the direction the Club is moving in. It shows the loyalty he
has towards the Club. I was excited to see him play live and some former
team-mates. There was never any doubt from a young age that Mark Noble was
producing some great performances and he has been a great servant to the
Club. It wouldn't surprise me if he goes on to become the manager one day!
He is West Ham through and through and the fans and his team-mates love him
because of what he represents and what he is willing to do for his team. I
also played with James Collins and he is a brilliant defender. Ginge was a
friend of mine and I am so happy for his success at West Ham United. When I
look back at my time I will always remember playing in the 4-0 win over
Manchester United in the League Cup. For me it was one of my most memorable
performances for the Club and we had some great performances from the team
that night. I will probably be best remembered for scoring two goals as I
wasn't renowned for scoring goals during my career, but Carlton Cole also
got a brace. The team played brilliantly that night. I remember seeing the
two goals at the closing ceremony and it brought back a lot of emotions and
some fond memories. Looking to the future, I think West Ham should continue
to build but the supporters need to be realistic with their expectations. A
lot of people have talked about going into Europe and achieving that success
and I think the Club can achieve that. With the players they can attract at
the new Stadium, that can become a realistic ambition. It is not something
that is going to happen overnight.

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Vice-Chairman addresses Sports Business Summit
WHUFC.com

Vice-Chairman Karren Brady has spoken positively about West Ham United's
future at the Leaders Sports Business Summit.

The Summit saw the industry's most influential people gather at Chelsea's
Stamford Bridge to share intelligence and discuss the innovations that will
help shape the future of sport.

In recognition of the developments the Club has made in recent seasons, the
Vice-Chairman was invited Napoli Chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis in leading a
discussion on the subject of 'Ownership and the Business of Running a Team:
Motives, Plans and Growth'.

During a lively 45-minute discourse, the Vice-Chairman explained how the
Club's 'strong heritage and culture' are central to its success, on and off
the pitch.

"I was honoured to be invited to take part in the Leaders Sports Business
Summit, where I was delighted to take the opportunity to speak about our
unique Football Club," she said.

"West Ham United has a strong heritage and culture that are unique, not just
in English but European and world football – characteristics that my
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold recognised, first as fans and,
since 2010, as owners and custodians of this special Club.

"Those same characteristics are, I told the Summit, the thing that sets West
Ham apart and what has made us so attractive and special to supporters
beyond our core UK fan base. As I said, its not the Stadium that makes the
Club, it's the supporters''

"That we have grown to be one of the biggest 15 clubs in world football is
down to a wide variety of factors, all of which are rooted in our loyal,
committed and ever-growing fan base, which now stretches across the globe."

The Vice-Chairman was invited to explain how West Ham's move to the
57,000-capacity London Stadium this summer was central to the Club's rapid
recent growth and ambitions to become an established leading global brand.

With 52,000 Season Ticket Holders, including 25,000 from families and 10,000
aged 16 or under, and more than 50,000 supporters on a Waiting List to join
them, the Hammers could soon be playing home matches in the largest club
ground in London.

"Our move to London Stadium was part of our ambitious strategy to take our
Club to the very top of the world's most-popular sport," she said. "We are
hugely grateful to our 52,000 Founders and are working tirelessly to make
their matchday experience at our iconic London Stadium home the very best it
can be.

"This is an ongoing process, but the passion and commitment of my Board,
staff and West Ham supporters is such that it is one we are confident of
moving forward quickly and effectively.

"In addition to our strong position in the Premier League, there are factors
such as the size and loyalty of our fan base, the capacity of the ground,
our strong identity and focus on youth both among supporters and squad
development, that have served as key factors in our recent growth.

"When we arrived in 2010, it was plain to my Joint-Chairmen and myself that
West Ham United had every key element required to establish the Club as on a
truly global scale.

"As a Club famous for winning the World Cup in 1966, when Bobby Moore lifted
the Jules Rimet Trophy, and an Academy recognised globally for being the
best at producing and developing home-grown talent, it was clear that the
strong heritage and traditions required to widen our worldwide appeal were
already present.

"Our privileged position as integral members of the Premier League, the
most-watched football league in the world, means we can continue to share
our unique story with football fans, both at home and abroad.

"With a market-leading digital marketing strategy, new overseas social
channels being launched and the Club becoming the first in the UK to sign an
eSports player, we are determined to remain at the forefront of the
innovative ways in which football is changing to adapt to an ever-changing
world.

"We are determined to build on that momentum as we work towards a positive
future for everyone associated with West Ham United."

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Browne – Checkatrade Trophy has huge benefits for us
WHUFC.com

Marcus Browne believes the Checkatrade Trophy has massive benefits for young
players
He was part of the West Ham United PL2 side which lost 3-0 to Wycombe
Wanderers on Tuesday
Browne also thinks playing in front of big crowds at stadiums give them an
extra boost.

Marcus Browne is all for the newly-formatted Checkatrade Trophy and believes
the EFL should persevere with the new layout of the competition.

The English Football League revamped the former Football League Trophy
during the summer, allowing Category One academies to enter teams into the
competition which already featured all League One and Two clubs.

The new proposals stipulate that all EFL clubs have to start every match
with five "First Team" players and U23 sides must have six players under the
age of 21 in their starting eleven.

The new format has come under criticism from some clubs and fan groups but
Browne said he would be more than happy if the EFL chose to continue with
the new blueprint.

"It's a good competition for us to be in as young players. There's a lot to
take from the games, playing against men and seeing where we're at as young
players," said the 18-year-old playmaker.

"I think the fact that they're men, they are physically stronger and bigger
than us so there's lots of different aspects to the game that they have an
advantage on us.

"But in the same token we're good footballers and we've got a lot to learn.
We're still developing until we become men and I think we can all get to
that level."

West Ham United PL2 have lost both their games in the competition so far – a
4-2 defeat to Coventry City in August and a 3-0 loss to Wycombe Wanderers on
Tuesday.

The Hammers are currently bottom of Southern Group D with their final group
fixture being played at Sixfields against Northampton Town in November.

Terry Westley have performed valiantly in both matches so far and Browne
thinks their performance in the Wycombe match showed that if they play more
against experienced opposition, they will get better.

"We got the jist of how they [Wycombe] wanted to play – direct and long and
they looked to get the ball from back to front as quick as they could,"
Browne continued.

"We adapted to that better, getting on to second balls more as they dropped
and we tried to hit them on the counter attack. We did grow into the game
and we looked better towards the end.

"Not a lot changed (in the dressing room talk). We knew there were going to
be powerful and physical and they wanted to get the ball in the box and we
tried to figure ways of adapting slightly.

"Set pieces were difficult especially when they have someone like Akinfenwa
up front but we just have to learn not to give fouls away and try and keep
the ball on the pitch as long as we can.

"There's massive benefits for young players to take from the tournament,
especially being in a tournament with mini-league and knockout stages. It's
massive for us because it's like playing the real thing."

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Paralympic star and Hammers coach inspiring youngsters
WHUFC.com

Paralympian Emyle Rudder recently returned from the Rio Games having
represented Great Britain in the seven-a-side football
The West Ham Foundation coach is inspiring youngsters in the area to follow
in his footsteps
Great Britain finished fifth – their highest ever placing in the sport at
the Paralympics

Great Britain Paralympic star and West Ham United Foundation coach Emyle
Rudder has been inspiring the next generation of young east Londoners to
play disabled sport since his return from the Rio Games.

The seven-a-side footballer, who suffers from cerebral palsy, coaches for
the Club's Foundation at their Beckton base and the many schools they visit
and recently attended the Premier League and BT's Disability Programme
Launch at London Stadium.

And the 22-year-old hopes his personal achievements can motivate disabled
youngsters in the area to get involved with sport whatever their condition.

He said: "These children are the next generation. They'll be the next
sportsmen and women to represent Great Britain or other countries and it's
amazing to see such a great turnout at events like this.

"There is some great talent here today so it's really good and really
encouraging.

"For me, it's been an interesting few months – it's been the highlight of my
life so far, let alone my summer! It's been very good."

The seven-a-side outfit were drawn in a group with hosts Brazil as well as
fancied side Ukraine – who eventually went on to win the tournament – and
Ireland.

Having gone down 2-1 in their first two matches, GB beat Ireland 5-1 but
just missed out on progression to the next stage.

Emyle was proud of his team's performances, however, and revealed his
emotions when playing in front of 10-15,000-strong crowds.

"We did very well, as it was our highest ever finish in fifth. It was always
going to be difficult against two top seeds, but we made a great account of
ourselves and pushed all our opponents very close.

"From all the teams there, we pushed Brazil and Ukraine the closest out of
anyone. I get goosebumps thinking about the experience. When you're playing,
you don't really notice the crowd.

"It's just a noise and you block it our and get on with what you have to get
on with. After, though, when you've finished the game and you're looking
around at the stadium, you're thinking 'oh my god, we've just played in
front of 15,000 fans!'"

The Foundation coach is affected by his condition on the right side of his
body, meaning it is a little weaker than his left, and muscle soreness and
stiffness are also symptoms.

He looked back on his experience in South America with great pride and
admitted he may never experience anything like it again.

"It was a little daunting! When you think about it, you have to play in
front of that kind of crowd two days after your first match – but no, it's
great.

"It's amazing; crazy. We'll probably never play in front of a crowd that big
again so I'm very grateful to get that experience."

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Marking Akinfenwa was a challenge, says young Hammer
WHUFC.com

West Ham United defender Alex Pike enjoyed the challenge of facing huge
Wycombe Wanderers forward Adebayo Akinfenwa on Tuesday night
The young Hammers were beaten 3-0 by their League Two opponents in the
Checkatrade Trophy
But Pike is confident Terry Westley's side have learned from the experience

Young Hammers defender Alex Pike admitted though he was left battered and
bruised by big Wycombe Wanderers forward Adebayo Akinfenwa in the
Checkatrade Trophy on Tuesday night, he is better off for the experience.

The Chairboys frontman scored the opening goal after seven minutes at Adams
Park and though the hosts went on to score twice more to seal the victory,
West Ham's young defence got to grips with Akinfenwa's physical presence as
the game wore on.

Defeat for Terry Westley's side, who are still yet to face Northampton Town
in their final EFL Trophy fixture, meant they can no longer progress from
their southern group D but Pike believes the youngsters have learned from
the tests they have faced so far.

He said: "It was a great experience for us and it's not something we come up
against in our league every week. It's good to have a different challenge,
like this and like against Coventry in the last match.

"It was hard marking Akinfenwa – he is certainly as strong as he looks! He's
a big lad and it just means you have to be either cleverer or stronger than
him. Since you can't be stronger, it leaves you with just one option.

"I've got a few cuts and bruises, though I've got no idea what from –
probably one of his body parts!

"But this is why we're in this competition. We get different challenges and
that's what gives you the experience ahead of the next stage of our careers,
whether that's a loan or whatever."

Wycombe's two second half strikes all-but decided the final result of the
match, however the Hammers went close on a number of occasions as they
looked to cut the deficit in Buckinghamshire.

Marcus Browne, who starred throughout, slid an effort inches past the post
from a tight angle and substitute Jahmal Hector-Ingram twice went close.

"I think we had some great chances at the end and if we were a little
tighter at set pieces and did the basics right, we would have stayed in with
a chance to win," continued 19-year-old Pike.

"They were a good side to play against. Sometimes in the Academy you can
start to get complacent but these tests show you the real-world level and
it's good to test yourself against professionals.

"These games are very different to the Academy sides we face. The teams are
a lot more physical. They were very direct, Wycombe, but that's part of
being a player – you have to adapt to the different challenges that occur,
and you do have to deal with it."

Pike played alongside Tunji Akinola at centre-back against Wanderers, a
position he has now had experience of playing a number of times this
campaign despite naturally being a full-back.

"It's good to show my versatility," he revealed. "You see a different
perspective of the game and the pitch and now when I play right-back, I'll
have a better understanding of what the centre-back deals with.

"It's good to get these experiences, because we work on our technical side
of the game and being good with the ball every day in training. Terry is
massive on it.

"When we come into these games, we want to try and play the game we want to
play it, rather than getting in a fight or a battle. We want to keep playing
the way we want to and hopefully, we should start to get some results."

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Rigobert Song: Cameroon legend taken to France for more treatment
BBC.co.uk

Former Cameroon international Rigobert Song has been flown from Cameroon to
France for further treatment after coming out of a two-day coma. The
40-year-old was admitted to Yaounde Central Hospital on Sunday after falling
unconscious. On Tuesday he waved to fans outside the Yaounde Emergency
Centre as he was taken away to the airport. Yaounde Emergency Centre
director Dr. Louis Joss Bitang A Mafok said Song had suffered a "cerebral
hemorrhage". Song's relative, Alexandre, has expressed gratitude to
Cameroonians for their good wishes. "At this moment my family is living
difficult times. We are touched by the love and support of Cameroonians and
elsewhere," he said. Cameroon Health Minister Andre Mama Fouda also offered
his support. "Song has departed to Pitie Salpetriere hospital in Paris,
where he will continue treatment. I am grateful to the Head of State for
instructing the government to take the necessary measures to ensure that
Song recovers. "We hail the professionalism of medical doctors in Cameroon
and we continue to pray for a safe trip for Rigobert Song and that he should
recover very fast."
On Tuesday, Dr. Mafok confirmed Song had "come out of his coma and the
oxygen has been disconnected", adding "his high blood pressure has returned
to normal and the cerebral haemorrhage has been controlled". Song played 137
times for his country and had spells with English clubs Liverpool and West
Ham.
He has been working as a coach for Cameroon's football federation following
his departure as Chad coach. Former Cameroon team-mate Samuel Eto'o tweeted
in French: "I wish you courage and a speedy recovery big brother."
Ex-Liverpool players Jamie Carragher, Stan Collymore and Robbie Fowler have
also sent messages of support, while the Anfield club tweeted: "Our thoughts
are with Rigobert Song and his family at this time."

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10 great things about the Olympic Stadium
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th October 2016
By: Staff Writer

Given the many issues which have arisen since the club moved lock, stock and
barrel to Stratford in the summer, if often appears as if there's nothing
positive to say about the Olympic Stadium.

So we decided to make a list of 10 great things about West Ham United's new
home in order to redress the balance a little...


1. The stadium looks fantastic upon approach

Since the club installed the giant 'West Ham United' sign at the entrance to
the stadium, shortly before the start of the season, it has at least begn to
feel like the club's new home. That impression is fuelled by the addition of
a large club shop and plenty of claret and blue-themed signage both in and
around the Olympic Stadium, all of which is clearly visible upon approaching
the island from any direction.

2. You can sit anywhere you like

Long gone are the days of being confined to just one seat. Thanks to the
plethora of non-existent 'plus 2s' and other empty sections, there are
literally thousands of empty seats dotted around the stadium. Due to its
oval structure, and lack of barriers restricting movement, fans have been
taking advantage of moving around the stadium to find a better view.

3. Ticket prices are mostly right

For many years this website has taken issue with the cost of watching West
Ham United on a regular basis. However the introduction of £99 season
tickets for minors and £299 adult tickets (albeit up in the gods) is
absolutely a step in the right direction and has allowed many dads to bring
their kids with them for a reasonably small outlay.

4. Food, glorious food

No longer are we fans essentially restricted to just burgers and rib rolls,
thanks to the plethora of food outlets situated both in and around the
ground (and in Westfield too). From Pie and mash to all kinds of cuisine
from around the globe, there really is something for everyone. Including
popcorn, if that floats your boat.

5. Spacious seats

Back at the Boleyn woe betide you if the fella sat next door weighed more
than 15 stone or stood higher than 6 feet tall, for that would invariably
result in you enjoying an ';arse wrestle' for full occupancy of your seat -
or having someone's knees constantly banging the back of your chair. Not any
more, for the seats at the OS are well-designed and comfortably spaced.

6. Big screens that work and may be seen

It was a running joke at the Boleyn that the big screens and clocks were
often faulty, especially in the club's final season there when it was deemed
pointless financing improvements when the move to Stratford was on the
horizon. The screens at the OS, on the other hand, are easy to see and
situated above the goals, not in the corners of the ground which could be
difficult for some to see.

7. Real ale

Or so I'm told, as I don't drink the stuff. Those who do have been most
complimentary. And although it's probably a controversial point, it's nice
to see fans watching the game and supping a beer at the same time from the
concourses - as they are allowed to in other sports such as cricket and
rugby.

8. Westfield

Whilst, on the whole, they may not want West Ham supporters there (I refer
you to 'The Westfield Wall' which is erected prior to every home game) it's
great to be able to pop into the shopping centre either before or after the
game to stock up on those little things that you may have forgotten, or grab
a bite to eat in warm, comfortable surroundings. That's going to be a
godsend come December and January.

9. Pubs, clubs and more pubs

Stay in and around E20 and you'll find a whole host of hostelries only too
willing to welcome West Ham supporters. Venture further afield and you'll
discover even more pubs and bars also happy to extend a warm welcome to
football fans - many more than were left in or around Green Street by the
time West Ham waved goodbye. Just steer clear of the Crate Brewery in
Hackney Wick...

10. Being there still annoys the hell out of everyone else

Opposition supporters may be enjoying West Ham United's many teething
problems currently, but the club (especially the Board of Directors who
enjoy a healthy financial interest) will have the last laugh. £2,5million
per year for a 66,000 capacity stadium still represents an absolute steal.

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.

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Karren Brady denies saying West Ham had 'no culture' on her arrival at the
club
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 05/10/16 4:48pm
SSN

West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady has moved to clarify comments she made
on Wednesday after apparently suggesting the club had "no culture" when she
arrived. Brady was appointed into her role in 2010 after David Gold and
David Sullivan acquired a controlling stake of West Ham from CB Holding and
has since helped to engineer the club's move from the Boleyn Ground to
London Stadium. Speaking at the Leaders in Sport conference, Brady said she
saw the move to the former Olympic Stadium in Stratford as a "chance to get
the culture right" at the club "Getting the culture right, being a place
where something is expected of you," Brady said. "That wasn't there when my
chairmen took over. "The Olympic Stadium had been built less than a mile
away from us. We saw that as a real opportunity to change the brand of the
club."
Brady has since taken to Twitter to clarify her comments, stating (sic): "At
Leaders was asked about corporate culture at WHU explained our world
renowned heritage is what sets us apart shame not reported that way."
Meanwhile, Brady has announced the club are producing a film documenting
their move to the London Stadium. Slaven Bilic's side have won just one
Premier League game since the Hammers took up residence there at the start
of the season. "The film will be called Iron Men and is about West Ham
supporters and the move from the Boleyn to the Olympic Stadium and what the
move means to them," she said. "Rebranding ourselves was really important
with the new stadium. We are in the London Stadium and we added the word
London to our crest because we thought it had real global appeal. "Nobody
else does it and that's exactly where we are. We are in the heart of London,
in the foothills of the financial centre. We have the best stadium. There
are some great stadiums in this country but there is only one Olympic
stadium and it's ours and branded ours and it has really had a dynamic
impact on the things that we can do. "We are now in the Olympic Stadium,
have very limited outside debt and in terms of brand values are ranked 15th,
we were 115th when I joined. We are now 20th in the Deloitte money league.
"Our trajectory is admired across the world, we have the largest amount of
season tickets of any London club and a capacity that will grow to 65,000."

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Michail Antonio drives 135 miles to hand deliver signed shirt for charity
after West Ham game
12:08, 5 OCT 2016 UPDATED 12:08, 5 OCT 2016
BY MATT LAWLESS
Antonio ran out of time to post the shirt so instead got in his car and
travelled up the M1 to hand it over in person after the Hammers' draw with
Middlesbrough
The Mirror

Class act Michail Antonio drove 135 miles to Birmingham after West Ham's
draw with Middlesbrough last weekend so he could hand deliver a signed shirt
for charity. The winger, 26, won his second call-up to the England squad
this week after his brilliant start to the season, despite West Ham's woes.
After running out of time to post to the shirt in time for a black-tie gala
and auction in aid of neonatal units, Antonio fulfilled a promise to Richard
and Charlotte Sharratt, founders of the Libby Mae Little Angels charity, by
arriving with the shirt in hand. Antonio, who turned up in his match day
West Ham tracksuit, was thanked by attendees at the event for giving up his
time. One wrote on Twitter: "Thanks @Michailantonio for your generosity
dropping your signed shirt tonight @MacBurlington on way from game".
Kind-hearted Antonio, who rose from non-League football to the Premier
League, replied: "No problem". The charity, launched in the memory of Libby
Mae Sharratt who tragically passed away at the age of two weeks following a
heart defect, has raised more than £135,000. And Antonio, who is an
ambassador for the Guy Mascolo Football Charity in Battersea, was glad to do
his part in helping their cause. "I knew they wanted it for the auction
that night, so I thought I'd drop it off after the game before carrying on
to see my family". Antonio is currently at St George's Park in Burton
looking to impress interim England boss Gareth Southgate in a bid to win his
first-ever international cap against Malta at Wembley.

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West Ham vice chairman Karren Brady insists London stadium move has been
"well received"
16:10, 5 OCT 2016 UPDATED 16:27, 5 OCT 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
The Hammers have won just one Premier League match in their new home with
matches dogged by crowd trouble
The Mirror

Karren Brady claims West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium has been "well
received." The Hammers have won just one Premier League match in their new
home since they relocated from Upton Park. Home games have also been dogged
by West Ham fans fighting each other and rival fans, not sitting down, not
having seats and also stewarding issues. A section of supporters chanted
"Stratford's a s***hole, I want to go home" during their 1-1 draw against
Middlesbrough on Saturday. But, speaking at the Leaders 2016 conference at
Stamford Bridge, vice chairman Brady painted a more positive picture about
the controversial move and argued: "As a board my two chairman made a
decision that because there is so much money in football now coming through
the broadcasting revenues that we should use that money to make football
affordable. "So here we have this great stadium in London, much better
prospects, facilities, travel links, everything, than our old stadium but we
charge a lower price. "So we offer them more dynamic product at an inferior
price which is quite dynamic and it has been so well received.
"Rebranding ourselves was really important with the new stadium. We are in
the London Stadium and we added the word London to our crest because we
thought it had real global appeal. "Nobody else does it and that's exact;y
where we are. We are in the heart of London, in the foothills of the
financial centre. "We have the best stadium. There are some great stadiums
in this country but there is only one Olympic stadium and it's ours and
branded ours and it has really had a dynamic impact on the things that we
can do."

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West Ham winger Michail Antonio shows off charitable side
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 05/10/16 7:51am
SSN

West Ham winger Michail Antonio showed off his softer side on Saturday night
after driving up to Birmingham to personally deliver a signed shirt to a
charity. Antonio had agreed to send a signed shirt to the founders of Libby
Mae's Little Angels - a charity which supports 19 neonatal units across the
midlands - in order for it to be auctioned at their black tie ball.
But having run out of time to post the shirt before Saturday's event,
Antonio drove up to Birmingham after playing in West Ham's 1-1 home draw
with Middlesbrough to ensure they received it on time. "I knew they wanted
it for the auction that night, so I thought I'd drop it off after the game
before carrying on to see my family," the 26-year-old said. Antonio has
enjoyed a sensational last 12 months at West Ham after signing from Sky Bet
Championship side Nottingham Forest, scoring 14 goals in 41 matches for the
Hammers. His superb form has seen him called up to the last two England
squads, but he is yet to make his international debut. Antonio, who was an
unused substitute in England's 1-0 victory over Slovakia in September, is
preparing with the rest of the Three Lions squad for the 2018 World Cup
qualifiers Malta and Slovenia.

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West Ham fans are not happy about Karren Brady's comments on club's culture
HITC
Tom Nightingale

Brady appeared to suggest that the Hammers lacked culture before she
arrived, although her comments have been taken somewhat out of context. The
relationship between West Ham's owners and their supporters has become
strained in recent times with the move to the London Stadium, but Karren
Brady seems to have fuelled the fire with some comments made on Wednesday,
as quoted by the London Evening Standard. The relocation from the club's
traditional Upton Park home has been a huge sore point for many of the
Irons' fanbase, with vice-chairman Brady and co-chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold accused of selling the club's soul. The trio have insisted that
the move was aimed at helping West Ham kick on the reach the next level
after an impressive season last term, but their poor form to start the
current season in their new home has certainly not helped their cause. As
the driving force behind the move, Brady has come in for the most criticism,
and she has now infuriated the club's supporters with comments made at the
Leaders in Sport conference on Wednesday. When discussing the club's
business model she told the audience, as quoted by the London Evening
Standard: "Getting the culture right, being a place where something is
expected of you. That wasn't there when my chairmen took over. "The Olympic
Stadium had been built less than a mile away from us; we saw that as a real
opportunity to change the brand of the club."
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the comments have been slightly twisted on social
media, with Brady's comments widely reported without context and the
headline becoming something akin to "Brady says West Ham had no culture
before she arrived". It is that version which has unsurprisingly received a
huge backlash on social media, with fans now baying for blood.

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West Ham's London Stadium move a chance to "rebrand" club, says Karren Brady
13:39, 5 OCT 2016 UPDATED 13:56, 5 OCT 2016
BY LIAM CORLESS
The Hammers upped and left their Upton Park home at the end of the last
season to begin a new chapter at what was formerly known as the Olympic
Stadium
The Mirror

West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady believes the move to the London Stadium
represents a chance to rebrand the club. The Hammers upped and left their
Upton Park home at the end of the last season to begin a new chapter at what
was formerly known as the Olympic Stadium. "We saw that as a real
opportunity to change the brand values of the club," Brady said at a Leaders
conference on Wednesday. "Rebranding ourselves was really important with our
new stadium. We're in the London Stadium." Brady also noted West Ham had "no
culture" when the club's current owners, David Sullivan and David Gold, took
charge in 2010. It's hard to imagine how West Ham's move to the London
Stadium could've gone any worse than it has done over the past couple of
months. On the field West Ham have won just one of their last five games at
the ground, while fan trouble has proved to be a major issue away from the
pitch. West Ham released a statement after Saturday's match with
Middlesbrough to condemn the violence which took place outside the stadium
following the 1-1 draw.

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West Ham to make 'Iron Men' film about move from Boleyn Ground to London
Stadium, confirms Karren Brady
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard

West Ham are set to release a movie to celebrate the move from the Boleyn
Ground to London Stadium, vice-chairman Karren Brady has confirmed. The
film, which will be titled Iron Men, is set to follow seven supporters. No
release date has been confirmed for the movie, which Brady announced at the
Leaders Sports Business Summit. Brady also added that the film will be about
the "transition of the values and history" of West Ham between the departure
from their home of 112 years and their arrival at their new ground, the 2012
Olympic Stadium. Many Hammers supporters are yet to embrace the ground, with
fans chanting "Stratford's a s***hole" and "We should have stayed at the
Boleyn."
Returning to the Boleyn is not an option for West Ham, with demolition work
having begun late last month after the venue was used for filming another
movie, Final Score starring Pierce Brosnan.

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West Ham Ladies and West Ham United begin formal negotiations for "in-house"
move
By Essex Chronicle | Posted: October 05, 2016
By Sam Inkersole sam.inkersole@KRNmedia.co.uk

Formal negotiations between West Ham Ladies and West Ham United have begun
to bring the Ladies "in-house" following allegations of sex discrimination
by the former against the latter.
Chairman of the Ladies, Stephen Hunt, lodged a formal complaint with the
Football Association after claiming his players were forced to play in last
season's kit, train by the side of the road and fund their own travel to
away games. The Ladies were also restricted access to the club's training
ground – then at Chadwell Heath but since moved to Rush Green – and also
wouldn't help out with any of the ladies injuries at they themselves
couldn't afford a physiotherapist. In the aftermath of the revelations which
came out on Monday, the senior section of the club has now said it will
bring the Ladies "in-house" as they were previously a separate entity to
West Ham United Football Club and the Hammers admitting that the transfer of
day-to-day running of the Ladies section to a third part "has simply not
worked."
West Ham added that Hunt had "refused to align with West Ham's principles
throughout his tenure as chairman and has, on a number of occasions,
threatened the club. "The club have been working for some time on plans to
takeWest Ham Ladies FC 'in-house' and, in light of Mr Hunt's most recent
deeply concerning comments, we will now be seeking to do so at the earliest
opportunity. "We will, of course, seek to maintain the current West Ham
United Ladies FC squad personnel where possible, and provide them with the
best possible support and management moving forward."
A former play for the Ladies who recently left the club and wanted to remain
anonymous, told Essex Live: "The main club want us without Stephen as
chairman, but he won't sell us.
"It's a joke and a shambles, really. I sat down a while ago and thought if
this side wasn't called West Ham Ladies would I stay here and the answer was
no." On Wednesday morning, Hunt confirmed that West Ham Ladies and West Ham
United Football Club had started negotiations on bringing the Ladies into
the main set up at the club.

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Carlton Cole given a new lease of life in Sacramento, and the former Chelsea
and West Ham striker has plenty of American dreams
CHRIS YOUNG
Evening STandard

For the final two months of last season, Carlton Cole drove away from
Celtic's Lennoxtown training ground facing a grim reality. After already
accepting he was to be no more than a bit-part player under then Celtic
manager Ronny Deila, Cole was also coming to terms with a serious knee
injury that threatened to end his career prematurely. Fast-forward six
months and Cole's present post-training regime is rather more relaxing in
the baking California sunshine. "After training, it's lovely to have a dip
in the pool. You don't get that option at home… it's too cold to go in the
River Thames!" jokes the former West Ham and Chelsea striker.

Cole headed across the pond in August to join Sacramento Republic, who play
in the third tier of football in the United States. While he regularly
speaks with namesake and good friend Ashley down the west coast at LA
Galaxy, Sacramento are a far more humble outfit. It could easily prompt
suggestions that with his 33rd birthday on the horizon, Cole merely made the
move to one of his favourite holiday destinations as an easy way of winding
down his career. The Croydon-born centre-forward is aware of those
suspicions but Sacramento — under the stewardship of ex-Cheltenham boss Paul
Buckle — won the USL Western Conference, attract crowds of around 10,000 and
have ambitions to be accepted as an MLS franchise within two years. That
project appeals to Cole and has transformed his outlook during the autumn of
his career. "It's always been a long-term ambition for me, so it's a great
opportunity for me to get my foot in the door," he said. "I wanted to come
over earlier in the summer but people were concerned that I hadn't played
enough games and wanted to know what my intentions were. "Was it just going
to be a pay day? They didn't know what happened at Celtic. No one wanted to
take a chance on me but I've got a good relationship with the coaches and
staff here. They know I'm here to work hard and prove my fitness. I wasn't
very optimistic when I had the knee problem in March but because the medical
team has given me so much attention, I can see a big future. It's still a
growing sport here and I want to prolong my career as long as possible."

Cole had considered moving to the MLS when he was released by West Ham in
May 2015 and any plans were then shelved when Celtic made an approach last
November. It was a "no-brainer" for him to join the Scottish champions but
persistent injury issues and Deila's faith in deploying a solitary central
striker (40-goal Leigh Griffiths) limited Cole to just five appearances —
four as a substitute. Both parties were happy to activate the break clause
midway through his two-year contract. There were offers of trials from
various English clubs during the close-season but Sacramento's medical
facilities, along with the presence of Buckle and director of football — and
former Chelsea colleague — Graham Smith proved sufficiently tempting.
He said: "At Celtic in March I got a bad knee injury. I haven't played a lot
from then until now. "Clubs in England wanted me to train with them, before
deciding whether to offer me anything. "But I really wanted to move to the
States. It didn't work out at Celtic but I had a great time there."

Who are Sacramento Republic FC?
Sacramento surprisingly lost in the first-round of the USL Play-offs on
Saturday — beaten in a penalty shoot-out by Orange County Blues — but Cole's
eye is on the long-term future in California as emphasised by him taking the
first steps on a coaching career. "I want to get involved in the youth
[set-up] because there's a massive need for that out here, with some
professional coaching," said the former England striker. "It's a growing
sport and if you can get into it now, it will be good for the future. I love
working with kids." Cole, of course, graduated through Chelsea's academy; a
breeding ground which has not been particularly successful in converting
prospects into first-teamers since his emergence more than a decade ago.
Plenty from Cobham have thrived out on loan or after moving to pastures new,
yet there has not been a clear pathway to making an impact for Chelsea
themselves. Under Antonio Conte, Cole believes there will be more emphasis
on home-grown talent — perhaps evidenced by perennial loanee Nathaniel
Chalobah finally making his Chelsea bow in last month's League Cup win at
Leicester. Cole added: "They've bought young English players, like Glen
Johnson, but they've not come from the youth ranks. I had high hopes for
Josh McEachran but that didn't materialise. When I was growing up there, I
got my chance under Claudio Ranieri. I've always had a great time under
Italian coaches, and Conte definitely is of that ilk."

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There will be 'no better' atmosphere when West Ham's London Stadium is full,
says Stuart Pearce
SAM LONG 14
Evening Standard

West Ham's fans can produce the best atmosphere in English football when the
London Stadium is at full capacity, according to Stuart Pearce. The Hammers
moved into their new home at the start of the season but have endured a
disappointing run of results in recent weeks, particularly at their
Stratford base. Slaven Bilic's side are currently languishing in the
relegation zone, having won just four points from a possible 12 on home
turf, with the club's hopes of hosting European football next season now in
jeopardy. Concerns have been raised in regards to the atmosphere at the
London Stadium, which has rarely seemed to be as intimidating the Boleyn
Ground, but Pearce is adamant other clubs will be unable to match it when
the supporters are in full voice. "There will be no better atmosphere with
60-odd thousand fans here," Pearace told the club's official website. "There
are some big old clubs in London, and now West Ham have a stadium to rival
them. "The training ground has also improved, so the club has a lot going
for it at the moment. "There's no reason why the club can't achieve great
things in the next few years," he added. Although West Ham's start to the
season has fallen short of expectations, with Saturday's 1-1 draw against
newly-promoted Middlesbrough the latest in a string of poor results, Pearce
believes perspective will be key during such a difficult patch of form.
"When you look at the bigger picture, the last few games have just been a
small moment of the club's history, as they hope to be here for the next 100
years at least. "This will become a fantastic home for West Ham, they will
have some great occasions here. This is just this settling-in period,"
Pearce insisted. West Ham's next game at the London Stadium is set hold huge
significance as Bilic's side face Sunderland, who are currently bottom of
the table, on October 22.

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West Ham's Simone Zaza needs time to adjust to Slaven Bilic's playing style,
insists striker's father
SAM LONG
Evening Standard

West Ham striker Simone Zaza needs to be given time to "settle" in east
London, according to his father. Zaza joined the Hammers from Juventus in
the summer but has failed to hit the ground running for his new employers.
The 25-year-old has made four Premier League appearances in the early stages
of the season but is yet to find the net for Slaven Bilic's side, who are
languishing in 17th place. And Zaza's father, who is also the Italy
international's agent, is adamant more time is needed before West Ham can
see the best of the striker's talent.
"I would say not good, it seems," when asked about his son's start to life
in the Premier League by Tuttojuve. "They [West Ham] have another way of
playing, it's not easy to settle in.
"The only thing I can say is that Simone has yet to acclimatise tactically.
"The movements are different, so he must figure out how to move as soon as
possible."

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