Daily WHUFC News -

Hammers introduce national rate numbers
WHUFC.com

West Ham United have introduced a new national rate 03 Ticket Office telephone number
Switch will save supporters up to 15p per minute against the old 0871 and 0845 numbers
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady expedited move after recent Fan Feedback Forum

West Ham United are delighted to announce the introduction of new national rate 03 telephone numbers for the Ticket Office. The new national rate 03 numbers will replace the old 0871 and 0845 numbers, saving supporters up to 15p per minute as calls to 03 numbers must count towards any inclusive minutes included in mobile, BT or other fixed line packages.

Fans calling to purchase Standard Tickets and Official Coach Travel should call 0333 030 1966, while Accessibility supporters should call 0333 030 0174.

The Board had been working towards introducing a national rate Ticket Office number this season, but pushed for the process to be completed after Vice-Chairman Karren Brady made a personal pledge to supporters at the recent Fan Feedback Forum. "We are delighted to be able to make this change for the benefit of West Ham United supporters," said the Vice-Chairman. "This switch to national rate telephone numbers, which will be included in the packages used by the vast majority of fans, is something we have been working towards as a Board. "Following discussions at the successful Fan Feedback Forum at London Stadium, the process has been expedited and I am pleased to confirm that it has now been completed. "As a Club, we are committed to making football affordable for all, and this switch to national rate numbers will save supporters money every time they call the Ticket Office in future. We would urge all fans to start using the new 03 numbers immediately!"

West Ham's move to national rate 03 numbers has been praised by David Hickson of the Fair Telecoms Campaign "Calls to 03 numbers are charged on exactly the same basis as calls to local numbers." he said. "Well done the Hammers; let us hope that other clubs and ticketing operators who need to will swiftly follow this example of how to respond to fans."

The previous Ticket Office numbers – 0871 529 1966 for Standard Tickets/0845 174 0174 – will be maintained for those supporters who have this stored on their mobile phones or see them on any pre-existing advertising. However, callers to these number will be advised of the new national rate 03 numbers at the start of their call.

Supporters interested in purchasing Club London hospitality packages should continue to call 020 8114 2442 or email matchdays@westhamunited.co.uk.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley happy players stepped up
WHUFC.com

West Ham United PL2 drew 1-1 with Northampton Town in the Checkatrade Trophy
The Hammers won an extra bonus point thanks to a 3-2 victory on penalties after 90 minutes
Terry Westley was very pleased with his team's display

Terry Westley praised his players for stepping up to the challenge as the PL2 Hammers drew with League One Northampton Town in the Checkatrade Trophy. The Hammers knew they could not qualify from the group stage but travelled to Sixfields aware of the importance of a good performance, and they delivered against experienced opposition. They went a goal behind when Harry Beautyman drilled in from the edge of area, but responded just before half-time when Djair Parfitt-Williams finished after a lovely team move. The Hammers then went on to win the bonus point after the draw in 90 minutes, winning 3-2 on penalties, meaning Westley's men finished third in Southern Group D of the newly-formatted competition. "For us to play Monday against West Brom in the league and then to play Nottingham Forest on our travels in the Premier League Cup and play again today against league opposition. It's where these players need to be," said Westley. "Tonight was the biggest challenge of the three. We asked the players to dominate the game but we didn't want to get in a physical battle with them. "We ended up with seven youth team players on the pitch and we kept trying to play, kept moving the ball around and it was a pleasing performance. Some players stood up for themselves against a good team."

The Hammers always looked the more threatening of the two sides but went behind after 23 minutes after conceding from a set-piece - their achilles heel in this year's competition. After failing to clear a free-kick, the loose ball found Beautyman who gave Raphael Spiegel no chance in the West Ham goal. The Hammers stuck to their slick passing style and equalised five minutes before the interval when Parfitt-Williams dinked the ball over the Cobblers' goalkeeper David Cornell. The away side dominated possession in the second half and defended resolutely to restrict their opponents to very little. They could have easily stolen the three points when Dan Kemp fired over in stoppage time. Kemp made amends in the following penalty shootout, scoring the spot kick to give West Ham the lead, before John-Joe O'Toole missed the decisive penalty, meaning the Hammers went home with the bonus point.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Akinola hopes new format continues
WHUFC.com

West Ham United PL2 drew with Northampton Town in the Checkatrade Trophy on Tuesday
The Hammers won a following penalty shootout 3-2 to go home with a bonus point
Centre-back Tunji Akinola said he hopes the EFL continues with this season's blueprint

Tunji Akinola hopes the experience of this season's Checkatrade Trophy will benefit West Ham United's youngsters as they bid to forge a career in the professional game. The Hammers PL2 outfit performed very well in Tuesday's 1-1 draw away at League One high-flyers Northampton Town, eventually winning a bonus point on penalties.
Akinola returned to Terry Westley's starting eleven for the match and said he was pleased to be back in the fold after a number of substitute appearances in recent weeks. "I've been waiting for my chance and working hard in training. The chance came and I thought I did well. Hopefully I can use it as a platform to keep my position in the U23 team and keep playing well for them," he said. "We played well all throughout the game and actually played better football than them."

After losing their opening two Checktatrade Trophy matches this season, the Hammers were already out of the competition, but they started the match on the front foot.
Despite going behind after Harry Beautyman's low drive, they equalised just before half-time when Djair Parfitt-Williams finished brilliantly for his first of the season. In the second half, the Hammers again looked the more comfortable of the two sides and probably should have took all three points. Marcus Browne, Moses Makasi, Dan Kemp and Hector-Ingram all went close in the second 45, before a penalty shootout ensued to see which side would take home the bonus point. Dan Kemp scored the Hammers fourth spot-kick meaning that the Cobblers' John-Joe O'Toole had to score his penalty to keep the home side in the contest. He blazed his strike over the bar, meaning the Hammers finished third in Southern Group D, and Akinola said afterwards he hopes the EFL continues with the same format of the Trophy competition next season. "It's been brilliant. Usually in our games programme we play against boys the same age as us and in U21, U23 football a lot of teams like to play out from the back," he added. "But when you play against men, they have to win. It gives us a different challenge. It's good to deal with aerial balls and try and be physical and match them. "I think in terms of that, it's a great experience and I hope they carry it on next year because it exposes young players to something we don't normally get every week."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces
WHUFC.com

Fan blogger Joe Difford returns with his latest look at the Hammers...

After a frustrating result away to Everton last week, Slaven Bilic and his men were looking to make it four consecutive home games unbeaten, although a win would have been preferred to the point we were forced to settle for. With Andre Ayew back in the starting line-up, fans were optimistic as the attack-minded line up, although perhaps we had one more centre half than we ended up needing. Ayew was closed down so quickly by the Stoke back line and he had barely any room to manoeuvre, especially when crosses came in. In our half however, we had set up expecting a strong attacking performance from the visitors, but they failed to test Adrian at all in the first half. Our goal came right when we needed it, and Michail Antonio will be gutted it hasn't gone down as his and added to his impressive tally of five goals this season. Dimitri Payet whipped in a cross and the winger glanced his header towards goal, but it was later declared to have brushed the shoulder of the Stoke man Glenn Whelan and it went down as an own goal. Stoke's equaliser was more than frustrating for the packed London Stadium, and a goal we could have avoided on another day. As a long ball was played forward, Adrian come out of his goal to make the challenge, but Jon Walters managed to get the cross in anyway, and Bojan volleyed home from close range. After scoring and looking to get a second, it was devastating to see us concede such an uncharacteristic goal.

Despite the result, we must be proud of a run of four home games unbeaten, as we look to make our new home a fortress, just like the Boleyn Ground was last season.
After the international break, we have a tough run of fixtures, but we will hopefully have Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho back in contention, giving us an almost fully fit squad for the first time this season. We may not have taken all three points and our league position may not be ideal, but another game unbeaten will help with confidence and players returning will allow Bilic to make changes for our difficult games against Spurs, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool. Unfortunately, three of the four teams below us won this weekend, but we are still just three points from ninth place, so the season is far from over. For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com

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

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Edi eyes Switzerland debut
WHUFC.com

Edimilson Fernandes says his 'dream' has been fulfilled after receiving his first senior Switzerland call-up.

West Ham United's versatile 20-year-old has started his first season in east London in impressive style, featuring in a variety of positions and scoring his maiden goal in the EFL Cup win over Chelsea last month.

After making his international U21 debut against England in March this year, Fernandes scored in UEFA European Championship qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Norway before being named in Vladimir Petkovic's squad for Sunday's FIFA World Cup qualifier with the Faroe Islands.

"It's my first call-up, so I have to go there and keep up the form I've been showing for my Club," the No31 told whufc.com.

"We have a World Cup qualifier with the Faroe Islands in Lucerne, which we hope to win and continue our good start to the group. We have won all three matches so far, and we want to make it four.

"Personally, I have to perform well in training and, if I am given the opportunity to play, in the match and I hope that will be the case."

The former FC Sion player joins an experienced and successful squad which reached the Round of 16 at Euro 2016 and has qualified for the last three World Cup finals.

Among his new national team squad-mates are his cousin Gelson, who has amassed more than 60 caps since making his own debut in 2007, and former West Ham midfielder Valon Behrami, who has 72 international appearances to his name.

"It is a dream for me to be called by my country, of course," he confirmed. "I am going to be training alongside my cousin Gelson, which will be a good experience, and I hope everything goes well for us.

"I hope to continue in the same way and keep doing my best for West Ham and for Switzerland."

Switzerland sit top of Group B after winning each of their opening three qualifiers. Petkovic's side kicked-off with a 2-0 home victory over European champions Portugal before winning 3-2 in Hungary and 2-1 in Andorra.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man Utd tickets on sale from 9am
WHUFC.com

Tickets for our EFL Cup quarter-final at Manchester United go on sale from 9am on Thursday.

With an allocation of 7,900 tickets, a huge number of Hammers will descend on Manchester for the cup tie, with Slaven Bilic's men aiming to book a two-legged semi-final.

Tickets will go on sale first to Season Ticket Holders with eight or more Priority Points, with slots throughout the next two days depending on your number of points.

This is a game not to be missed, with prices starting at £37 adults, £27.75 for 18-20 year-olds, £18.50 for 16-17 year-olds and over-65s and £10 under-16s.

Supporters will be able to purchase up to four tickets for this fixture, so the atmosphere promises to be electric.
Buy at our online ticket office
Priority Point timeslots

ST Holders with 8+ points ​9am Thursday
ST Holders with 7+ points 11am Thursday
ST Holders with 6+ points 1pm Thursday
ST Holders with 5+ points 3pm Thursday
ST Holders with 4+ points 9am Friday
ST Holders with 3+ points 11am Friday
ST Holders with 2+ points 1pm Friday
ST Holders with 1+ points 3pm Friday
ST Holders 4pm Friday

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com

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

Hello everyone,

I would like to start this week by congratulating Aaron Cresswell on being called-up to the England squad for the first time.

Not only is Aaron an outstanding player who deserves his call, but he also showed during his recent rehab what a fantastic professional he is.

He worked extremely hard to return from the knee injury he suffered in pre-season.

To be included in the England squad is a testament to his approach to his profession.

I would also like to congratulate Andre Ayew on being appointed captain of Ghana for their World Cup qualifier in Egypt this week. Andre also worked extremely hard on his rehab and made his first Premier League start for three months against Stoke City on Saturday.

Also, we congratulate Edimilson Fernandes on being named in the senior Switzerland squad for the first time.

We keep in regular contact with Aaron, Andre, Edimilson and all our international players during the final break of the year.

Two players who were unfortunately unable to link up with their respective countries were James Collins and Winston Reid.

Ginge suffered a calf injury in the Stoke game and had to withdraw from the Wales squad. He will rehab with us this week and we hope he will be available for the trip to Tottenham Hotspur on 19 November.

Winston was injured towards the end of the Everton game. He is working on his rehab at Rush Green, having had to withdraw from the New Zealand squad.

On a more positive note, Diafra Sakho has been training with the first-team squad for the past two weeks, as you can see from the West Ham TV video above, and we hope he will be available for selection against Tottenham or the week after.

Andy Carroll is progressing well with his rehab, Gokhan Tore is closer to returning to train with the squad, while Sam Byram is working very well following his hamstring injury and has started running on the pitch this week with our head physiotherapist Dom Rogan.

Reece Oxford suffered a high ankle sprain in training before the Everton game and is currently using crutches as he is in the non-weight bearing phase of his rehab.

We wish all our international players the best and will continue to work with the players who have remained at Rush Green to prepare them for the busiest and most challenging part of the season ahead.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet wins Goal of the Month
WHUFC.com

Dimitri Payet has won the vote for October's West Ham United Goal of the Month.

Payet's remarkable slaloming effort against Middlesbrough took your vote as our best strike in an October month which saw a collection of fine Hammers' goals.

However, there was no doubting that Payet's solo strike stood alone, as he took a landslide 75 percent of the poll, ahead of Manuel Lanzini's lovely finish at Crystal Palace and Cheikhou Kouyate's long-range header against Chelsea, which tied for second on six percent.

Payet was edged out for an awards double, though, by fellow midfielder Pedro Obiang, who won the whufc.com vote to be named October's Player of the Month.

The former Spain U21 international regained his place in the starting XI for the first game of October against Middlesbrough and never looked back, playing an important role in screening the back four as the team's form picked up.

Obiang collected 42 percent of the vote, with Payet behind in second with 28 percent.

Adrian and Kouyate were joint-third on 14 percent.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cress shares Second Chance story
WHUFC.com

Aaron Cresswell visited West Ham United Foundation's Academy Second Chance Programme
Left-back shared his own career history, which saw him released by Liverpool at 15
Programme gives teenagers a chance to combine education and football

Aaron Cresswell has shared the story of his circuitous route to becoming a professional footballer with teenagers hoping to follow in his illustrious footsteps.

The Hammers' newest England call-up spent a morning with youngsters on West Ham United Foundation's Academy Second Chance Programme at Chadwell Heath.

The scheme, run in partnership with SCL Education Through Sport, sees 16-18 year olds partake in a two-year, full-time education and development programme, with the aim of setting them up for later life.

All those completing the course attain a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport, combining their studies with daily training sessions and matches in the Conference Youth Alliance and FA Youth Cup.

The ultimate aim of those taking part is to be picked up by professional or semi-professional football clubs, pursue a role in coaching or the sport and leisure industry, or head off to university to gain further qualifications.

Cresswell told the students how his own career appeared to be over when he was released by Liverpool at the age of 15, returning to play local football with his friends before being scouted and given a second chance to make it by EFL club Tranmere Rovers.

"It's very important that these lads stay involved in football in some way as some of them have been released by clubs, so it's a good programme that the Foundation runs with 50 per cent education and 50 per cent football, so I'm sure they're delighted with that," said the No3.

"I enjoying being involved in the Foundation and their work. There are 30 or 40 lads out there and, you never know, one of them might get a second chance with West Ham and get to go into the youth team and show what they can do."

After overseeing a training session, Cresswell explained how he had bounced back from being released to spent time answering questions from the aspiring young footballers.

"I had a similar sort of background to you lads," he revealed. "I was at Liverpool when I was 14 to 15 and got released and thought the road was over and didn't know what to do.

"My Dad said to me 'Look, go and enjoy your football' and my message to you would be the same, just don't stop! Good luck and keep on working."

For more information about the West Ham United Foundation Academy Second Chance Programme, click here.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The cost of goals in David Sullivan's world
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th November 2016
By: Paul Walker

Are we all ready? Surely we can't wait… just around the corner is another trip to the twice-a-year, David Sullivan transfer theme park.

Round and round we go. Let's listen and watch the little fat man turning cartwheels. Let's wait in line for the roundabout going nowhere and the carousel ride that makes you feel sick. There's even a dodgy bird in a tent telling fortunes and flogging dreams. Along with bags of popcorn. And then the climax of a helter-skelter ride at the last minute to make sure we get Mido over the finish line.

Yes, can't wait, can we? It's already started with a list of half-decent players we are chasing, the French legend we may sell and the list of abject failures we are trying to knock-out to anyone who will slash our wage bill.

And guess what Mr. Sullivan? Did you realise that every goal your ducking and diving has acquired has cost the club a cool half-a-million quid!?

A lot of money, yes. And I am sure you will cry foul as a few facts are twirled to get to that astonishing figure. I've been a little unkind too by tying together signings when we were skint, trying to avoid administration, and then when we had a bob or two and pitched for the moon.

One minute you are telling us we will sign a £30/40/50million striker, then your son chips in by reminding us we are £100milion in debt (to you, not the banks) and for people to realise how tough it is out there.

So there is no giving you the benefit of the doubt these days, I think you have lost that option as we survey the current antipathy towards a board who are becoming the most disliked, by many, our great club can remember - even rivalling the amazingly-inept PR of the great Bond Scheme era.

How do I get to this figure? Well, every transfer window since Sullivan and his mates arrived has seen us being promised the great goal-scoring hero, the one striker who will make all the difference. We have heard it all over and over again, and then we end up with the likes of Mido, Mladen Petric, Nene or Zaza.

Intrigued by wondering where all the money goes, I set about surveying the strikers and support strikers that Sullivan's wheeling and dealing has brought to the club. From Benni McCarthy to Andre Ayew, Wellington Paulista to Madibo Maiga. With Brian Montenegro and Jonathan Calleri along the way.

So since Sullivan's gang of three took over in January 2010, they have signed around 32 strikers of vastly-differing ability. There have been 11 loans and eight frees in that collection.

Now I haven't included on my list the kids that have arrived very much for the future, like Frank Nouble and Sean Maguire, but I have included Ashley Fletcher, who was clearly bought for the present and who has done okay leading the line when asked this season.

In all I reckon that those 32 have cost the club nearly £80million, and that does not include the loan fees (Zaza and Calleri have cost us about £7million in such pay-outs, it is believed).

Now that list of 32 have played 667 games between them and scored 146 goals. Yes there may be the odd player I have missed, and some of the fees may be a little out, but not much - so stay with me on this, because I am trying to make a general point about Sullivan's transfer dealings.

The loan players have managed 12 goals in 94 games between them while the frees have come up with 11 games and 24 goals. The purchased players have seen the bulk of the goals being netted by Andy Carroll (23), Ricardo Vaz Te (19), Freddie Piquonne (11), Michail Antonio (15) and Diafra Sakho (19).

A further 15 never troubled the scorers, and so far that includes Simone Zaza, Jonathan Calleri, Andre Ayew, Toni Martinez and Ashley Fletcher, of those most recent through the door.

So, those 146 goals, if you divide that figure into £80million, is about, roughly, half a million a pop. My maths was never the best, but I doubt that makes very good reading for our defacto director of football!

Of course, he has Tony Henry by his side these days. Exactly who is responsible for the previous transfer window activity that has proved to be a near disaster is open to debate. I noticed that towards the end of the summer, when the big names were dropping like flies, it was sort of leaked that all the players we were going for were Slaven Bilic's choices.

I do find that hard to believe, knowing Sullivan's track record. Here is the guy who told folk that he knew more about transfers than any manager. Yeah, right. I cannot believe, for example, that Bilic had even heard of Fletcher and,say, Sam Byram. So let's stop trying to spread the blame to the manager (although he has to answer for the shocking failure of Gokhan Tore and Simone Zaza, surely).

And what about Henry? He's the Sullivan sidekick it is alleged Sam Allardyce would not even let into the training ground, and who was on gardening leave at Sunderland after being given the elbow by Everton when Roberto Martinez arrived.

Henry's exact involvement interests me. I am old enough to have seen him play for Manchester City under the late, great Malcolm Allison. Henry became e bit infamous there when Allison allowed Granada TV access to produce a documentary back in the day when that just didn't happen.

Amusingly, Allison was heard screaming: "Tony Henry, Tony Henry, Tony Henry" from the touchline when his midfielder was not doing something properly. Henry must have got fed-up with folk in Manchester shouting that at him out in the street!

He then ended up working for Paul Stretford, the controversial agent of Wayne Rooney, who had more than a little bother in court over the case, you may remember. Henry, while working for Stretford, was assigned to show Jorge Mendes the ropes of the English transfer system, and an agreement was reached over various cuts of deals that took place.

That was OK until Mendes started, allegedly, doing stuff behind peoples' backs and that all ended very messily in a Portuguese court. Mendes is now one of the world's top agents looking after Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho, to name just a few. If Sullivan expected Henry to have an "in" with Mendes, I sense he has been disappointed.

And frankly, we all are with the level of transfer business done for strikers over the years by Sullivan, even though he has clearly tried very hard. My view has been voiced before; I believe owners and directors should not be involved in transfers and player selection, clubs should employ directors of football--just like Liverpool have done for Jurgen Klopp recently--and let football people make the decisions.

Of course Sullivan won't do that. It#s far too expensive when he can do the job himself. But he is still telling us he is chasing that elusive striker, now needed more than ever with the ongoing problems with Carroll, Sakho and Zaza. We will watch with interest as the transfer month arrives…anyone for the ride of death at Sullivan's theme park?

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.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Affordable football, affordable phone bills
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th November 2016
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United have finally ditched their premium rate telephone lines for the club's ticket office. Back in August, KUMB.com revealed how a string of supporters had been charged extortionate fees when contacting West Ham United's ticket office by telephone. Some fans were forced to hold on for up to two hours before their calls were answered - leaving them with bills up to £40 as a result of the 13p-per-minute tariff. But today the club announced that the deeply-unpopular 0871 and 0845 lines were being replaced by 0333 numbers which, it is claimed, "will save supporters up to 68p per minute".

"West Ham United are delighted to announce the introduction of new national rate 03 telephone numbers for the Ticket Office," said the club. "The new national rate 03 numbers will replace the old 0871 and 0845 numbers, saving supporters up to 68p per minute as calls to 03 numbers must count towards any inclusive minutes included in mobile, BT or other fixed line packages. "Fans calling to purchase Standard Tickets and Official Coach Travel should call 0333 030 1966, while Accessibility supporters should call 0333 030 0174."

News of the upgraded phone rates come less than a week after the club announced they had hired Aston Villa's former Head of Ticketing, Nicola Keye. Supporters should be aware that the old 0871 and 0845 numbers will remain active and are therefore advised to update their records accordingly to avoid incurring additional costs.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ex Hammer earns England call-up
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th November 2016
By: Staff Writer

Former Academy prospect Blair Turgott has been selected to play for England C against Estonia's Under 23s next week. The 22-year-old winger is a late call-up to the C team, which consists entirely of players from non-league club, for the International Challenge Trophy friendly in Tallinn on Tuesday 15 November. Turgott, who currently represents Bromley FC, joined West Ham as an eight-year-old in 2002 and spent the next 13 years at the club honing his talents before being allowed to leave on a free transfer in 2015. Having left West Ham he joined Coventry City on a short-term deal in March of that year, where he played just four matches.
In the summer of 2015 he agreed a one-year deal with Leyton Orient, for whom he went on to make 36 appearances. However the Bromley-born player failed to secure a second year at the club and was once again released on a free transfer. In August of this year it was confirmed that Turgott had signed a contract with his home town club, Bromley FC. Although The Ravens are currently 17th in the National League, Turgott's efforts - along with those of team mate Jack Holland - were considered of sufficient quality to secure the duo places in Paul Fairclough's C squad.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Aaron Cresswell: West Ham return and England call-up is a dream
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 09/11/16 7:50pm
SSN

Aaron Cresswell says the last three weeks, in which he has returned from injury, played four times for West Ham and earned his first England call-up, is the stuff of dreams.

The 26-year-old left-back has been picked for Gareth Southgate's squad to face Scotland and Spain this week in place of the injured Danny Drinkwater.

Cresswell missed the start of the season with a knee injury but made his return on October 15 and is relishing the idea of making his international debut against rivals Scotland.

"On the back of missing just one game for West ham in two years, coming back from injury in three months, playing a few games and then getting called up to the national side is the stuff dreams are made of," he said.

"When you start out playing football, everyone wants to represent their country. For me to do that would be a proud moment for me and my family.

"It's been fantastic. I'm delighted to be at St George's Park, with fantastic facilities. I've been here before with West Ham training a few times and I've enjoyed it, so hopefully that continues.

"I am looking forward to it. It's going to be a fantastic atmosphere I'm sure - one we are all looking forward to - and hopefully we can get the job done."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
England left-back Aaron Cresswell admits 'devastation' at being released by Liverpool as a teenager
07:47, 9 NOV 2016 UPDATED 07:47, 9 NOV 2016
BY LIAM PRENDERVILLE
The West Ham man bounced back at Tranmere after being released aged 15, and is now in line to make his Three Lions debut
The Mirror

Aaron Cresswell has revealed his heartbreak at being released by Liverpool as he closes in on his first England cap. The West Ham left-back was called up to the Three Lions squad by Gareth Southgate for the upcoming clashes with Scotland and Spain. For many it is long overdue, with Cresswell impressing in the Premier League since joining West Ham in 2014. Cresswell has opened up about his tough road to the top and admits he came close to packing things up altogether after being let go by boyhood club Liverpool at the age of 15. "I was devastated. As a kid, you are in a bubble of playing for Liverpool. It was all I had done for two years and I had enjoyed it so much. It wasn't about a job, or thinking, 'I won't make it'. It was about playing for the club I supported," he told the Telegraph. "My dad said, 'It is not the end of the world. Go back with your mates. Just play with a smile on your face and enjoy it'. That's what I did. I went back with the lads."

Cresswell was soon spotted by Tranmere and made his senior debut for the club at the age of 18. He spent three years at Prenton Park before joining Ipswich and eventually West Ham. Cresswell insists his spell at Tranmere was vital in his development and believes many players benefit from dropping down the leagues, whether temporarily or permanently. While the left-back is unlikely to play against Scotland, he could make his debut in the friendly with Spain and is determined to make the most of the opportunity. "I hope I can achieve my dream of pulling on an England shirt, which is what I've wanted to do ever since I started playing football as a little kid in Liverpool."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'I'm not going to give up'- Ireland No.1 Randolph determined to be top dog at West Ham
Tom Rooney
The Irish Independent
9 November 2016

The day might arrive when Darren Randolph grows tired of playing understudy to Adrián at West Ham United and decide to seek challenges elsewhere, but for the foreseeable future the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper is determined to make his mark at the Olympic Stadium. It's a little over 13 months since Randolph was unexpectedly thrust into the cauldron of international football, on a night when Ireland would record arguably their most famous and significant win of the last decade. Germany, the world champions, had come to the Aviva Stadium looking to put Ireland firmly back in their place after they had secured a famous draw thanks to John O'Shea's late equaliser in the corresponding Euro 2016 qualifier. Shay Given was forced off with a twisted knee in the latter stages of the first half, and the boy from Balinteer was sprung from the bench If Randolph was battling the jitters in those heightened circumstances, it was not evident and, as the second period matured, Ireland grew in stature.
With 20 minutes to go, Randolph hoofed a kick deep into German territory, which Shane Long latched onto before driving an unstoppable effort beyond Manuel Neuer.
The win revived Ireland's waning campaign and, through the playoffs and subsequent European Championships, Randolph has been a constant presence in Martin O'Neill's side. However, at club level, he's been almost exclusively restricted to cup games, with Slaven Bilic still preferring Adrián for the bread and butter of the Premier League Randolph has featured in the Europa League (3) and EFL Cup (2), but the 29-year-old is yet to be selected in the league. It's difficult, he admits, but he's not yet deterred. There'll be a time when it does come - I don't think anyone wants to just sit and not play. "But for the time being, I'm going to stick at it. I've only been there a season - this is the start of my second season - I'm not just going to give up and leave and walk away from the challenge, I'm going to keep going and see what happens. "Obviously, I'm not getting as much game-time as I would like, but I knew that was going to be the case anyway, so it's the usual, just get your head down and get working and see what happens."

Randolph has far more immediate concerns to address, with Ireland travelling to Vienna for Saturday's pivotal World Cup qualification clash against Austria.
Ireland are currently joint top of Group D with Serbia, who travel to Wales on Saturday, so even a point would leave the Boys in Green in a favourable position come the new year. He's thoroughly enjoyed what has been a stellar year on the international stage and is hopeful it will continue in that vein at the Ernst Happel Stadium.
"It's been brilliant. A lot of highs - I have got the experience of the Euros, so I have come a very long way in just over a year. "We took a lot of confidence from the tournament and the performances and got off to a good start in this group, so another positive result on Saturday, hopefully taking points from one of the teams that is going to be there or thereabouts, would help us."

Unlike Ireland, the last round of fixtures were not particularly fruitful for Austria, who managed a draw with Wales before losing to Serbia, and are now in fourth place, thee points off the pace. Randolph reckons Ireland are likely to face a considerable backlash as the Austrians look to get their campaign back on course before it derails completely. "If you're an away team, you want to go and frustrate the home team as much as possible. Again, it's kind of must-win for them and for us, we'd like to get minimum a point to keep us up there in the group, so there's going to be pressure on both teams. "They'll obviously want to improve on their last result, so it's going to be a tough game, a tough place to go," he said.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph wants West Ham opportunity
independet.ie

Darren Randolph has vowed to stay and fight for his place in the West Ham team but he admits there may come a time when he will have to consider his future at the London Stadium. As West Ham's second choice goalkeeper behind Adrian, Randolph has been restricted to just five appearances for the club this season with all of them coming in either the Europa League of the EFL Cup. His lack of action for his club is in stark contrast to his success at international level after being thrust into the team during the Republic of Ireland's dramatic win over Germany last October. The 29-year-old is frustrated at his lack of game time for West Ham but he is not yet ready to move on in search of regular football. "There'll be a time when it does come - I don't think anyone wants to just sit and not play," he explained to reporters. "But for the time being, I'm going to stick at it. I've only been there a season - this is the start of my second season - I'm not just going to give up and leave and walk away from the challenge, I'm going to keep going and see what happens. "Obviously, I'm not getting as much game-time as I would like, but I knew that was going to be the case anyway, so it's the usual, just get your head down and get working and see what happens."

Randolph got his chance when Shay Given was forced off with a twisted knee in the latter stages of Ireland's defeat of Germany last year and he was the man in goal throughout their Euro 2016 campaign in the summer. He is likely to remain between the sticks when Ireland travel to Vienna so for Saturday's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Austria and he is enjoying his international exploits. "It's been brilliant. A lot of highs - I have got the experience of the Euros, so I have come a very long way in just over a year," he said. "We took a lot of confidence from the tournament and the performances and got off to a good start in this group, so another positive result on Saturday, hopefully taking points from one of the teams that is going to be there or thereabouts, would help us."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham players feared for their safety after Andy Carroll was held up at gunpoint, says Darren Randolph
DAMIEN SPELLMAN
Evening Standard

Darren Randolph has admitted Andy Carroll's terrifying gunpoint experience left his team-mates fearing for their own safety. The West Ham keeper, who is currently on international duty with the Republic of Ireland, and the rest of the squad remained at the training ground after it emerged that the Hammers striker had apparently been held up on his way home. Asked if Carroll's experience had proved frightening, Randolph said: "Yes, considering he left first and a lot of us had to go the same way to get back home. Everyone stuck around for a little bit longer just in case. "I was obviously not nice for him and not nice to hear about anybody. Obviously when it strikes a bit closer to home, it is a little bit scary. "I think players get targeted, but I don't think it's something that you wake up and think about every day. When it does happen, it does play on your mind for a few days. "You just hope you're not the unlucky one it happens to."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM BOOSTED IN MANOLO GABBIADINI CHASE
MICHAEL OLIVER
ReadWestHam

West Ham and Everton have been handed a boost in their efforts to sign Napoli striker Manolo Gabbiadini in January after talks over a new long-term contract broke down. According to Mediaset Premium (h/t talkSPORT), Gabbiadini was expected to sign a new contract which would run until the summer of 2021 and have his wages doubled, but that will now not be happening for the time being. Coach Maurizio Sarri is said to be unimpressed by the performances of the Italian international of late and is unwilling to commit to giving him a long-term extension until his performances improve. The 24-year-old striker has only found the net once in nine outings in Serie A this season and is finding himself subbed off frequently due to not having an impact on games. Both West Ham and Everton were keen on signing the striker in the summer, and will likely reignite their interest in January following the latest developments. Gabbiadini would've commanded a fee in excess of £20m back in the summer and Napoli were unwilling to sell him following the departure of Gonzalo Higuain to Juventus. His current contract expires in 2019 and if they have no interest in handing him new terms they could be forced to cash-in.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LEEDS UNITED DEALT BLOW IN STRIKER HUNTFeatured Image
Date: 9th November 2016 at 1:33pm
Written by: Jay Williams

According to The Sun, West Ham United will not allow Leeds target Ashley Fletcher to leave the club on loan in January unless they can sign another striker themselves.
This comes as a blow for a number of Championship clubs who were plotting a January loan swoop for the young striker. Leeds United were heavily linked with Ashley Fletcher in the summer but the 21-year-old opted to join West Ham on a free after refusing a new contract at Manchester United. He has since made nine first team appearances for the Hammers but most have been substitute cameos. West Ham striker Simone Zaza has a clause in his contract which makes his loan deal permanent if he plays a certain amount of games and Slaven Bilic is not keen to let this happen due to the Italian's bad performances in Claret and Blue so far. As a result, Fletcher will not be allowed to leave on loan in January unless Bilic can find a replacement for Zaza. The Hammers are currently without striker duo Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho due to long-term injuries.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
RB Leipzig chief Ralf Rangnick says West Ham starlet Reece Oxford no longer a target for Bundesliga club
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Wednesday, November 9, 2016

RB Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick has ruled out a move for West Ham defender Reece Oxford. The teenager shot to prominence last season when he shone on his debut against Arsenal at the age of just 16. Big-spending RB Leipzig have also been linked with Oxford as they look to continue their recruitment drive which revolves around signing players under the age of 24. However, Rangnick, who is entrusted with finding new signings, has cooled talk of a move for the Hammers starlet.
"We will not move for him neither this winter nor next summer," Rangnick told Bild. "He once played a role, but the emphasis is on those who can play immediately."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham and Brighton chase young star Mohammed
HITC
John August

HITC Sport understands Brighton join West Ham in race for Hammarby youngster. West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion are battling it out for highly-rated teenager Bilal Mohammed, HITC Sport understands from sources close to the club. Mohammed has been earning rave reviews for Hammarby's youth sides and he is regarded as one of the best young prospects to emerge from Scandinavia in recent years. The 15-year-old enjoyed a trial spell at West Ham last month after being invited over to train with the Premier League club and Mohammed is understood to have impressed during his stint in East London. West Ham have expressed an interest in signing the attacking midfielder, but they now face competition for the teenager from clubs across Europe. Championship hopefuls Brighton have been alerted to Mohammed's talents and they have not made an enquiry to Hammarby to allow them to have the youngster on trial on the South Coast so they cast a closer eye over him. Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven and Italian side Sassuolo have also expressed interest in having Mohammed on trial as they weigh up moves for the winger with Hammarby bracing themselves for offers for their prize asset.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Aaron Cresswell opens up about 'devastating' Liverpool academy exit which shaped his rise to West Ham and England
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Evening Standard

Aaron Cresswell has opened up on his rise to West Ham's first team and, now, England after revealing how he dealt with his "devastating" exit from Liverpool as a teenager. The 26-year-old has become an important member of West Ham ever since arriving from Championship side Ipswich Town in 2014, cementing his position as Slaven Bilic's first-choice left back and being rewarded for his consistent performances for the club with his first call-up to the England squad this week. But Cresswell has revealed that his football journey to his current enviable position wasn't so easy, despite the fact that he started his career at his boyhood club Liverpool. The defender was released by the club's academy side aged 15 before going back to playing for his Sunday league team, which eventually got him spotted by a scout at Tranmere Rovers. "My dad told me in the car," Cresswell told The Telegraph about the moment when he first heard he had been released by Liverpool's academy. "I couldn't get my head around it at first. They pull the parents to one side and tell them, 'It's not to be but it's not the end. I was devastated. "As a kid, you are in a bubble of playing for Liverpool. It was all I had done for two years and I had enjoyed it so much. "It wasn't about a job, or thinking, 'I won't make it'. It was about playing for the club I supported. Everyone around me was a Liverpool fan. It was just purely for the love of football. "My dad said, 'It is not the end of the world. Go back with your mates. Just play with a smile on your face and enjoy it'. That's what I did. I went back with the lads."

After signing for Tranmere, Cresswell spent three years playing in League One before his talent was spotted by Ipswich, where he eventually cemented his place in the side and gained experience of the Championship in the process. "You ask any of the lower-league clubs and it's all about discipline," Cresswell said of his time at Tranmere and Ipswich. "I think that is why, when you see the young kids getting released from the big clubs, they don't realise how hard it is to go into the lower leagues. It doesn't get easier. "The kids that go there have never seen anything like it. You don't get your kit cleaned. You have to do things for yourself. "It shows a bit of respect to the senior players and gives you a grounding. When you come to train with them, you feel like it's a privilege. I wouldn't have had it any other way."

Cresswell, West Ham's Hammer of the Year in 2015, could now get the chance to earn his first England cap when Gareth Southagate's side play Scotland at Wembley on Friday. And the left-back, who trained with his compatriots for the first time on Tuesday morning, said: "I can't wait to be part of it. "I just want to enjoy the experience and do my best in training and, if I can do that, then I hope I can achieve my dream of pulling on an England shirt, which is what I've wanted to do ever since I started playing football as a little kid in Liverpool."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com