Daily WHUFC News - 28th January 2016

The Big Interview - Enner Valencia
WHUFC.com

Enner Valencia is arguably in the best form he has shown in a West Ham
United shirt. Fully recovered from the high ankle sprain which ruled him out
earlier this season, and with fellow forwards Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho
nursing their own injuries, the No11 has risen to the challenge of becoming
the Hammers' first-choice centre forward. Two wonderful goals in the
thrilling Barclays Premier League victory at AFC Bournemouth – one a volley
and the other a wickedly dipping free-kick – were followed by two more in
Saturday's rollercoaster 2-2 draw at home to Manchester City. With West Ham
sitting sixth in the table with 15 games to play and looking forward to
Saturday's Emirates FA Cup fourth-round trip to Liverpool, whufc.com
continued Enner Valencia Week by chatting to our outstanding Ecuador
international.

Enner, with four goals in your last three matches, do you feel like you are
in top form?

"Yes, I am very pleased to be among the goals again and have been able to
help the team. I am feeling fully fit and I have a lot of confidence, so it
is a bit of everything as to why I am feeling so good. All these things
help! I feel very happy at the moment. I have had to cope with two very
difficult injuries but now I'm fully fit and doing all I can to help the
team."

It is a cliché, but are we now seeing the 'real' Enner Valencia, the 'real'
Superman, as you are known in your homeland?

"Maybe they are! Obviously in terms of my goals and helping the team stay as
high we can in the league, I feel I am doing well, but I can be giving more
to the team in the future."

You have been playing as a No9, as our centre forward. Are you enjoying that
position?

"Yes, that's the position I really enjoy playing in and of course I am much
nearer to the goal, so that makes it much easier to score goals."

We have seen the full repertoire of goals from you in recent matches – a
volley, a free-kick and a couple of first-time finishes…

"The free-kick was a goal I have been wanting to score since last season,
then there was the volley and obviously the goal against Manchester City
where I managed to hold off the defender Nicolas Otamendi. I am happy with
them and I hope there are lots more to come."

Can you explain the technique you used for the free-kick at Bournemouth,
because the ball was travelling so quickly and dipped so sharply…

"Yes, it is a technique I have seen Cristiano Ronaldo use many times, and
also Juninho Pernambucano who played for Lyon for many seasons. I have been
trying and trying and it finally came off against Bournemouth. You have to
hit the ball the centre of the ball with the point of your toes. It's about
the angle you hit the ball and getting it up and down very quickly. Thank
God it worked against Bournemouth. You must hit the middle of the football
and that way it goes up and down very quickly."

For the second goal against Manchester City, we also saw your strength?

"Yes, it all happened very quickly. Michail Antonio threw the ball over the
top of their defence and I managed to get my body in front and hold off the
defender Otamendi and put the ball away."

You have won trophies with Emelec and scored lots of goals for Pachuca, but
Is this the best club side you have played in?

"Maybe. We have been in great form and are beating some top teams and are
near the top of the Premier League, so we're doing very well. It is
fantastic playing in the team as players like Dimitri Payet, because of
course he is a wonderful teammate to have. You know he can play you in with
one pass and it's my job to make the most of that."

Can we finish the season in the top six?

"Of course the best scenario would be to finish in the top four and qualify
for the Champions League, so of course we're putting in all the hard work we
can and we hope we can finish in the Champions League position."

Finally, we have an FA Cup fourth round tie at Liverpool on Saturday. We
have beaten them twice in the Premier League, so can we make it a memorable
hat-trick?

"Yes, we have beaten them in the last two games we have played them, but
every game with Liverpool is different and we know this one will be very
difficult, so we have to concentrate if we want to get the win."

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Holocaust Memorial Day 2016
WHUFC.com

'Don't Stand By' is the theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2016

Joint-Chairman David Gold will today attend Newham Council's Holocaust
Memorial Day commemoration in association with the Holocaust Educational
Trust. Mr Gold has been invited to light one of six candles, alongside
survivor Harry Bibring, Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales, Young Mayor of
Newham Alex Jarrett, West Ham MP Lyn Brown, and Deputy Lieutenant John
Barber, The Queen's representative in Newham, to mark the six million Jews
who died in the Holocaust. Ninety-year-old survivor Harry has been telling
his story for many years. His first-hand testimony is a powerful reminder of
the horrors so many experienced during the Holocaust. He is a living witness
to Nazi persecution, keen to ensure the memory of those who died is
honoured, and learn the lessons of where prejudice and racism can lead.
Retired engineer Harry is now one of a handful of survivors who visit
schools to tell their stories as living witnesses, but the number is getting
smaller. He said: "People ask me why I do it and I say I don't like daytime
television. The real reason of course is that there is still prejudice to
challenge. "Modern society has appeared to have learned nothing from the
Holocaust. People are still discriminated against because they live a
different life or a different skin colour. Just look at Rwanda and Cambodia
and now in Syria where different sections of the same religion are killing
themselves. It has got to stop. "I tell people to never fall into a group
who differentiate against somebody because they are different to you. There
is only race on this earth, the human race, and we have to get on with each
other. "This year's Holocaust Memorial Day message is Don't Stand By. I have
been saying that for years. Standing by is bad. That's why I want to meet
young people and to tell them my story."

The HMD commemoration is to take place on Wednesday 27 January,
9.30am-12.30pm, Old Town Hall, Broadway, Stratford, E15. Harry will share
his story and there will be an opportunity to ask questions, while the
service also includes performances and readings from Newham schoolchildren.
For more information, click here.

As Harry himself points out, 'Don't Stand By' is the theme for Holocaust
Memorial Day 2016. Supporters were able to watch a video on the subject on
the big screens at Saturday's game with Manchester City, courtesy of the
Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. In the short film, survivor of the Holocaust
Susan Pollack shares a unique story of surviving genocide.

The Holocaust and subsequent genocides took place because the local
populations allowed insidious persecution to take root. Whilst some actively
supported or facilitated state policies of persecution, the vast majority
stood by silently – at best, afraid to speak out; at worst, indifferent.
Bystanders enabled the Holocaust, Nazi Persecution and subsequent genocides.

Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel has written powerfully about the impact of
bystanders: "I swore never to be silent whenever and wherever human beings
endure suffering and humiliation. We must always take sides. Neutrality
helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor,
never the tormented.

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Boleyn Insider
WHUFC.com

The Boleyn Insider brings you exclusive insight into the behind-the-scenes
goings on at the Boleyn Ground. We are fast approaching the end of the
January transfer window, but it is my understanding that the Club are still
working hard behind the scenes to add another player to the squad. With
Mauro Zarate joining Fiorentina last week, there is the option for the Club
to sign another forward and there have been strong reports in the media
linking Fenerbahce striker Emmanuel Emenike with a move to the Boleyn
Ground. My sources have indicated to me that the Nigerian international
could be arriving in England in the next 24 hours and the Hammers are
hopeful that a deal can be finalised. The Club have also been linked with a
move for Galatasaray forward Burak Yilmaz, but I have been told there is no
interest in the experienced Turkish striker. It is my understanding that the
Club are not prepared to take a risk on a player of his age who has never
played outside of Turkey. Looking ahead to the summer, the Hammers have made
it clear that they want to sign a big name striker who has a proven track
record.
Reports are suggesting that Marseille forward Michy Batshuayi is one of the
main targets, but it has been made clear to me that the French club will not
be selling him during this current window and the Hammers will review his
situation at the end of the season. Slaven Bilic made it clear at the start
of the January window that he was happy with his squad and would only
consider something if an exceptional player became available. The signing of
Sam Byram from Leeds United came about earlier than expected due to
Everton's late interest and he has already proved to be a great signing for
the Club. With the Hammers set for a big move to the new Stadium during the
summer I have been told that work has already started on identifying new
players in the summer and that significant funds will be made available
again. The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily
those of West Ham United

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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com

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

Hello everyone,

We will start this week with an update regarding Carl Jenkinson, who
unfortunately suffered a significant knee injury in Saturday's 2-2 Barclays
Premier League draw with Manchester City.
For the moment, Carl's medical procedures are handled by Arsenal. We wish
Carl all the best at this difficult time.

James Tomkins picked up a groin injury at Newcastle United. James returns to
full training tomorrow and should be available for this Saturday's FA Cup
fourth round tie at Liverpool.

Michail Antonio was one of a few players who picked up knocks in the
Manchester City game, but all of them will be recovered in time to play at
Liverpool. Michail injured his wrist and will wear some protection in the
next few games.

Andy Carroll is close to full fitness. He will be training with the squad
from the beginning of next week.

Manuel Lanzini and Diafra Sakho have started working on the pitch
individually and are coming into the final stages of their rehabilitation.
We are still on target to recover them by the middle of February.

We have five days remaining of the Transfer Window and we will have to see
what happens with regard to any new players coming in, which will
necessitate a medical taking place at Spire Roding Hospital.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science

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Reid's happy to be back
WHUFC.com

Winston Reid was pleased to play his part as West Ham United secured a point
against title-challengers Manchester City on Saturday. Reid was marking his
return to the starting line-up in the Barclays Premier League following a
month-long injury absence and he chose a high-intensity clash in which to
make his comeback. The Kiwi felt the performance was indicative of how far
the Hammers have come and is confident for a strong end to the campaign. "It
was a bit of a ding dong game and they are a tough team to play against," he
said. "We had other chances too and it showed what a class keeper Joe Hart
is that he saved Dimi's (Payet's) free kick. It was right in the top corner.
"At the end we had a chance with Cheikhou Kouyate, but it wasn't to be. It
was a good performance and we needed to bounce back from the disappointment
against Newcastle. "It was a great game for the fans and it shows how far we
have come as a team to be disappointed in not winning against a team like
Man City. "I haven't been frustrated [at waiting for my chance]. I spoke to
the manager and he told me how the situation was. The defence has been doing
really well since I have been out and I said to him that it is not a
problem, when I am needed he can call upon me to play. "Everyone wants to
play of course, but I know the situation. I trained hard and it gave me a
couple of extra weeks to get my fitness back up."

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Euro 2016: James Collins feared career was over in 2008
BBC.co.uk

Wales defender James Collins will go to the 2016 European Championships this
summer having feared eight years ago his playing career was over. The
32-year-old suffered a knee ligament injury in January 2008 playing for West
Ham United's reserves. Collins says he was "virtually in tears" as he feared
the worst during a scan on the injury. "That's all that was in my head. I'm
thinking this is never going to be the same again," he told Sport Wales. The
Newport-born player added: "I remember at my age looking at the fact that a
cruciate knee injury - you used to see players not come back from it."
Collins made his Wales debut as a 20-year-old in a youthful team fielded by
then-manager Mark Hughes for a 0-0 draw with Norway in May, 2004. The former
Cardiff City player says injuries have restricted his international
appearances, but is relishing what lies ahead in France in the summer. "I
think I made my debut when I was 20 maybe. I am 32 now and only to be on 46
caps is not enough, really," Collins said. "I've pulled out of a lot of
games through injury and I was out for two years from international football
with my knee." Collins says "persistent calf problems" have also limited his
Wales career. "Every time there was a Wales trip coming around I seemed to
be out," he added. "I wasn't playing at my club and obviously I was missing
the Wales games. "So to be involved now still, at 32, and having touched
this successful (Welsh) period and enjoying it more than I ever have, is
great. "A while ago, looking at my Welsh career I thought it would probably
never happen and to be involved and hopefully going into it (Euro 2016)
playing well in a tremendous Welsh team is very exciting."

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Ladies advance in the cup
January 27, 2016
WestHamWay.co.uk
Marc Nurse

We had been looking forward to this game for a few weeks and after a couple
of unavoidable postponements, we were game on! Both teams started slowly
and we conceded an early penalty after a bit of rash challenge from one of
the defenders. Crystal Palace went 1-0 up after 13 minutes and the pressure
was on for us to level the score. I was very confident that we could get
back in to the game and we responded well. One of our most influential
players this season, Shirvae Edwards, intercepted the ball and managed to
slot through to Romina Pinna for the first goal . Once again, Shiv was
phenomenal intercepting the ball and playing forward to Whitney Locke, who
scored a fantastic goal - her first of the season. We went in to the break
2-1 up and the second half was all about hitting them on the break when we
could. We created a few chances but couldn't find the back of the net. We
had a clear penalty, but this was unfortunately not ruled in our favour. I
am really proud of every single one of the players, the defending was
fantastic, especially from corners and set pieces. Katie Bottom showed
great leadership, pushing her side forward to the next round of the FA Cup.
We now will play either Blackburn or Nuneaton at home. I hope to see you
all there! COYI's!

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West Ham agree loan deal for Fenerbahce's Emmanuel Emenike
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 27/01/16 5:12pm
SSN

West Ham have agreed a deal with Fenerbahce to sign Emmanuel Emenike but a
loan move for Galatasaray's Burak Yilmaz appears to be off. Sky sources
understand Turkish club Fenerbahce have accepted West Ham's loan offer for
former Nigeria international striker Emenike, 28. Dubai-based Al Ain, where
he had been on loan, no longer have Emenike registered as one of their three
foreign players. It is understood Emenike will travel to London for a
medical on Thursday and the club will also prepare a work permit
application. And Fenerbahce are in talks with Roma over the signing of
Seydou Doumbia as a replacement for Emenike. The deal for 30-year-old Yilmaz
is less straightforward, with Galatasaray reluctant to sell their Turkey
international striker and likely to demand a fee in the region of £8m. West
Ham have so far only offered a loan deal which is thought to be of no
interest to the selling club or the player, and it is also understood the
Londoners do not want to bring in both players.
Crystal Palace had been interested in Emenike but have abandoned their
pursuit after agreeing a contract with Emmanuel Adebayor on Tuesday.
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic knows the player from his time in charge of
Besiktas.

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Bobby Moore statue must be replaced
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Newham council have agreed for the 16ft bronze statue of Bobby Moore, Geoff
Hurst and Martin Peters plus Everton's Ray Wilson which celebrates England's
World Cup win in 1966 to be moved to the Olympic Stadium on condition it is
replaced with a sculpture that celebrates West Ham's connection to the area.

ClaretandHugh understands that the club will need to fully fund the
relocation to it's a new home outside the Olympic Stadium ahead of West
Ham's summer move.

bm1Newham councillors backed plans to make the sculpture the showpiece of a
new Champions Place.

Cllr Ken Clark, cabinet member for building communities, public affairs,
regeneration and planning, said: "This is an iconic sculpture showing West
Ham's key role in one of this country's greatest sporting successes.

"There is a strong case for it being relocated, but we must not ignore the
area it will be moving from.Before the sculpture is moved, we must be
assured that appropriate junction improvements and West Ham United's history
at the Boleyn Ground will be commemorated."

The sculpture, designed by Philip Jackson, was unveiled by Prince Andrew in
April 2003.

Councillors have also agreed to develop plans to improve the Barking Road
junction where it currently stands, and will look at the possibility of
incorporating a new sculpture into the design. The council will seek funding
from Transport for London and other sources for the work, which it aims to
complete by 2019.

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Hammers warn against last day pitch invasion
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham have pleaded with supporters not to spoil the end of season party
by invading the Boleyn Ground pitch after the Swansea City match.

Members of the West Ham Supporters Advisory board were told by club
representatives last night that a pitch invasion after the last game of the
season would completely ruin post match entertainment that has been planned.

The club also refused to rule out life bans including the Olympic Stadium
for anyone caught running onto the pitch after the last ball has been
kicked.

The club did reveal last night that every living player who played for West
Ham will be invited back to a game this season. They said there are over 400
of them in total. Every living Hammer of the year have been invited to the
final game of the season.

Tony Cottee recently revealed "The club have already written to me and for
the Swansea game there's only 37 West Ham players that won Hammer of the
Year, of which 33 are still alive and I am one of the 33 and they have
invited the 33 Hammers of the Years back to celebrate the last game ever at
Upton Park"

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Great news on injury front
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

James Tomkins is expected to be fit for the FA Cuo clash this weekend while
Andy Carroll is reported to be very close to full fitness. Speakig to the
official site Stijn Vandenbroucke, Head of Medical and Sports Science,
reported: "James Tomkins picked up a little groin injury at Newcastle
United, but he has now returned to full training and should be available for
this Saturday's FA Cup fourth round tie at Liverpool. Michail Antonio was
one of a few players who picked up knocks in the Manchester City game, but
all of them will be recovered in time to play at Liverpool. Michail injured
his wrist and will wear some protection in the next few games. Andy Carroll
is very close to full fitness. He will be training with the squad from the
beginning of next week. Manuel Lanzini and Diafra Sakho have started working
on the pitch individually and are coming into the final stages of their
rehabilitation. We are still on target to recover them by the middle of
February. We have five days remaining of the Transfer Window and we will
have to see what happens with regard to any new players coming in, which
will necessitate a medical taking place at Spire Roding Hospital."

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OFFICIAL: Yes he is the Irons target
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham have admitted for the first time that Marseilles striker Michy
Batshuayi is – as widely touted – the No 1 summer target. And they have
added that the club will be relying heavily on the Dimitri Payet factor to
swing the race in their favour when the scramble gets underway for his
signature. ClaretandHugh carried a story yesterday in which the striker
admitted he loved Payet in a tweet declaring "PAYET PAYET PAYET" followed by
three hearts! And this morning a top Irons source told us: "Yes, he's the
one we want but we have not -as has been suggested – signed any pre contract
arrangements. The truth is that half of Europe are after him. Obviously
the Payet factor could help – we hope so."
Rumours started circulating on the social networks that the Irons were
negotiating a pre-contract but that was blown out of the water by the
ever-reliable http://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/ where it was revealed that he
signed a contract extension with Marseilles this month and is under contract
until 2020. However, interestingly the website – seen as a 'bible ' on these
matters by many claims that his market value is only £6.3 million – NOT £20
million. However, one leading agent commented: "It's a guide but the truth
is a player is worth what a club decides it wants to pay." The 22-year-old
striker has scored 15 goals in 27 Ligue 1 and Europa League games for
Marseille this season. Scouts from West Ham, Manchester United and Liverpool
attended Marseille's 1-1 draw with Lyon on Sunday night.

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Fans get last game 'assurance' from club
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 27, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham have asked the Premier League and TV sports broadcasters NOT to
move our last game against Swansea City to a Monday evening. The matter
looks to have finally settled after The West Ham Supporters Advisory Board
was told last night the club has spoken to the Premier League on the matter.
ClaretandHugh has been told by one member present that club representatives
gave the assurance from the platform. A rumour has gathered pace pace in
recent weeks that our final game will be moved to a Monday night to be
screened live by Sky. It's also been speculated that it would also be played
at a time to fit in with Iron Maiden's touring schedule who were suggested
may become surprise guests after the game. However, Maiden and bassist
Steve Harris – a big West Ham fan – are touring ten thousand miles away in
Australia at that time so there is little possibility of them gigging at the
Boleyn. UptonparkThere remains a strong possibility that Sky or BT Sports
could chose the game to be screened LIVE considering the historical
significance of the event. That could mean a lunchtime or evening kick off
on the Saturday, Sunday or a Monday night game. The broadcasters are told to
give six weeks notice of fixture changes to enable supporters to change
plans although this didn't happen with an Arsenal v Leicester City fixture
in February which caused complaints A Premier League statement said: "We
always seek to give fans a minimum of six weeks' notice of any fixture
changes. It is only on extremely rare occasions we don't meet that
aspiration during the normal course of the season.We are currently in
discussions with Arsenal and Leicester City to see what can be done to help
fans affected by this scheduling change."

Last year, Glenn Thompson from IT firm ATOS claimed West Ham made a request
to be at home at the penultimate weekend rather than the last weekend of
their final season at the Boleyn Ground.
Glenn, responsible for calculating Premier League fixtures for the IT firm
told Andy Goldstein on TalkSport radio: "I believe, West Ham requested to
be home on the penultimate weekend."
However, David Gold disputed Mr Thompson at the time saying "I find it very
odd that anyone on this planet would believe that West Ham would ASK to be
away for last game. dg" he issue could still face another twist as described
here yesterday by the progress of ourselves and Manchester United in the FA
Cup.

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West Ham Cottee: That was the best debut I have seen in a very long time
London 24
12:30 27 January 2016

Our West Ham columnist extols the virtues of Sam Byram and Dimitri Payet 1
Sam Byram of West Ham. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) What a cracker of
a game it was at Upton Park on Saturday and though I had been suffering with
a bit of 'man flu' from earlier in the week, I was delighted that I made my
way over from Sky to see the match. Firstly I thought we did everything
right in the game. Apart from maybe 15 minutes after we scored the first
goal, when City began to take charge, I thought we were better than them in
just about every department. I thought Dimitri Payet was absolutely
brilliant. He ran the game from midfield and was only denied a deserved goal
by a brilliant save from Joe Hart. For me, you have to go back to a Carlos
Tevez or a Paolo Di Canio, or going even further back, an Alan Devonshire or
Alan Dickens to see a performance like that from a Hammer. West Ham United's
Dimitri Payet attempts a overhead kick during the Barclays Premier League
match at Upton Park, London. I have always rated Enner Valencia as probably
our best finisher at the club and it is great to see him hit the net, but I
want to give some special praise to young Sam Byram. I have seen him a lot
for Leeds United in the Championship, so I was keen to see how he did in the
Premier League and I thought that was the best debut I have seen in a very
long time. When you are a defender on the bench you condition yourself to
not coming on early and just enjoy the game, but from the moment he stepped
on to the field, he was superb. Within moments he had a ball coming at him
from miles in the air and under pressure, but he controlled it and sent a
stunning ball back across the pitch. From then on, he was strong and he kept
things simple and for me he has to be an automatic pick for the Aston Villa
game. West Ham United's Dimitri Payet reacts during the Barclays Premier
League match at Upton Park, London. Before that, we go to Liverpool in the
FA Cup and I am looking for us to field a strong enough team for at least a
draw. You have to strike a balance with a Premier League game on Tuesday,
something that is a complete nonsense and needs to be sorted. I think Jurgen
Klopp will play a lot of his youngsters, so I would like to see at least six
regular first-teamers for us at Anfield, resting just a few and if so, I
think we can get a result. Villa have certainly picked up lately, despite
not winning many games. You can't take three points for granted in any game,
they won't just roll over and let us beat them, but again I think if we stay
focused and work hard I believe we can win this game and move further up the
table. I am on a good run with my predictions at the moment, so I will go
for a 1-1 draw at Liverpool on Saturday, giving us a nice replay, while
against Villa I think we can get over the line 3-1. The top four is not just
a dream – COYI!

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West Ham transfer report: 'Real deal' Michy Batshuayi could strike up
'deadly partnership' with Dimitri Payet
By WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Whether it be in January or in the summer, Marseille sensation Michy
Batshuayi is set to be a hot property on the transfer market. It's likely to
be a matter of when, not if, the French side sell and it appears West Ham
have joined the battle for his signature. WhoScored.com have the stats to
support him moving to the Premier League. Check out lots of brilliant West
Ham statistics here, and read on for WhoScored's take on the Belgian
forward… It's becoming increasingly harder for teams across Europe to
protect their young talents from the watchful eyes of the elite on the
continent. The increase in coverage means clubs have greater access to
younger players, which in turn is making it more difficult for smaller teams
to hang onto their prized assets. One such talent set to draw more and more
attention in the coming weeks and months is Batshuayi. The young Belgium
international has quickly established himself as Marseille's first choice
striker in the wake of Andre Ayew and Andre-Pierre Gignac's respective
departures for Swansea and Tigres. Having featured sporadically last season,
Batshuayi has started 21 of 22 games in Ligue 1 season, with his
performances contributing to a WhoScored.com rating of 7.09.
His goalscoring exploits can't be called into question, with his 12 league
goals bettered only by Zlatan Ibrahimvic (17) in Ligue 1 this season,
accentuating his statistically calculated WhoScored.com strength of
'finishing'. Yet, the 22-year-old isn't just a goalscoring striker, as his
seven assists indicate. Only Angel Di Maria (9) has registered more than the
youngster this term, highlighting his commendable ability to bring others
into play. While teams were fully aware of his potential last season,
Batshuayi's performances have perhaps exceeded expectations considering
Marseille's major overhaul last summer. Marcelo Bielsa's exit following the
opening day defeat to Caen left the club at a crossroads, though replacement
Michel deserves credit for ensuring they remain in with a chance of securing
Champions League.
In that regard, Batshuayi is crucial for the French side. Of the 33 players
to score 10 or more goals in Ligue 1 since the beginning of last season,
only four are scoring a goal more frequently than Batshuayi (every 131.8
minutes). While a number of big hitters have been credited with an interest
in the Belgian, it's West Ham who seemingly lead the way in their quest to
secure the striker's services. Batshuayi may have signed a new contract with
Marseille earlier this month, but in the January transfer window, rumours
remain abound of 'this club' signing 'that player'. The Hammers are no
different, with their current crop of strikers struggling for form and
regular fitness. Factor in the impressive performances of summer arrival
Dimitri Payet, who continues to excel in his debut campaign in east London,
and a move to West Ham could certainly benefit player and club.
The duo played together at Marseille last season and while Batshuayi rarely
featured due to Gignac's impressive form, the pair would certainly have the
potential to strike up a deadly partnership in the final third. Only three
players have played more key passes in the Premier League this season than
Payet (57), despite the Frenchman missing almost two months of the campaign
with an ankle problem. With Euro 2016 looming, Marseille must be hoping that
Batshuayi's price tag will rise, particularly with the frontman expected to
be part of the Belgium squad that travels to France this summer. It would,
therefore, be in the Hammers' best interests to get a deal completed sooner
rather than later, especially if Batshuayi enjoys a prolific European
Championship that would see interest in his signature increase
significantly.
Some players are hyped despite playing only a handful of games, but
Batshuayi looks the real deal. His already evident striking qualities and
scope to improve means he is a striker that any team in Europe could
utilise. If West Ham manage to beat their rivals to the punch, then it would
be seen as another real coup by the east London outfit.

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West Ham star reveals why he's struggling to settle in England
ANGELO OGBONNA has revealed that he has found it difficult to settle in
England.
By JAMES GRAY
PUBLISHED: 14:49, Wed, Jan 27, 2016 | UPDATED: 15:00, Wed, Jan 27, 2016
Express

Ogbonna signed from Juventus last summer but has struggled to settle. The
27-year-old made a £8.4million switch from Juventus over the summer, netting
an own goal on his debut in the Europa League against Astra Giurgiu. And
although the Italy international has been a regular in the centre of Slaven
Bilic's defence with 16 appearances in all competitions, Ogbonna claims he
has struggled to settle in the country. "Difficulties? The language,"
Ogbonna told Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport. "Although I have
Nigerian roots, I've always been in Italy.
"The other thing that makes me think is the less sociable nature of the
British. "It's not easy to establish human relationships."
Ogbonna was dropped to the bench last week as Bilic opted for James Collins
and Winston Reid at the heart of his backline. But Ogbonna is confident of a
return to the team, admitting that he feels under considerably less pressure
in England than he did in Italy. "Everything is more relaxed," Ogbonna
added. "There isn't the pressure of Serie A. "We [Italians] work more
though, training sessions every day and double sessions once a week, whereas
here we often rest on Wednesday. "There's more respect on the pitch."

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West Ham defender Joey O'Brien admits he could leave club on loan this month
HITC
Mathew Nash

he Republic of Ireland international is worried about his place in the Euro
2016 finals. West Ham defender Joey O'Brien has confirmed his desire to move
away from the club this month as he returns to first-team training after a
spell out with an ankle injury. The arrival of Sam Byram has seen the
Republic of Ireland international's chances of regular football take another
knock and he confirmed to London 24 that he is open to the idea of leaving
the club. He stated: "I need to go and play games. "The Euros are in the
summer. I need to be playing games to try and get into the next squad for
the friendlies. Then we can see what happens from there but I need to be
playing. Ireland hasn't been to many major championships, so this is a big
deal. "I will have to see what the manager thinks. If he sits me down and
says he wants me to go out on loan then I will look at that. "It is down to
the manager, if he wants me to hang around here then that's what I will do.
But if he wants me to go out on loan, then I will look at that."

O'Brien is one of those players who is not yet assured of a place in Martin
O'Neill's squad for the European Championships in France this summer and
will know he will need to be playing regular football if he is to have any
chance of making the cut. O'Brien, who can play at both left and right-back,
featured just 11 times for West Ham last season and has played just five
times this term with West Ham - and not featured since the Europe League tie
with Astra Giurgiu in July. But it is also likely he might be asked to stick
around by West Ham manager Slaven Bilic - after Arsenal loanee Carl
Jenkinson suffered a potentially season-ending injury at the weekend.

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Why West Ham Could Regret This Deal
The 4th Official's View, West Ham United 26 Jan 2016

This is scheduled to be West Ham United's last season at the Boleyn Ground
as the Hammers will move to their new home Olympic Stadium from the start of
the next season. The ambitious owners are targeting a place in the
continental football next season as they bid a goodbye to the historic
ground.The appointment of Slaven Bilic on the West Ham hot seat and bringing
quality players like Dimitri Payet is serving them well so far and the
Hammers are certainly in the race for a European spot.

The Hammers are sitting sixth on the table right now after 23 game weeks and
has shown signs of a certain improvement this season. If they are able to
bring more consistency to their game and some quality additions, they can
become a giant in English football, exactly what the owners aspire
themselves to become.

The Hammers have not been much active during the winter transfer window as
their only signing so far has been the signature of Sam Byram from Leeds
United but a they have seen a pretty big exit in the winter as Mauro Zarate
finalised his move to Serie A giants Fiorentina. The Hammers have not done
really well attacking wise consistently this season with all of their
strikers Enner Valencia, Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho having injury
concerns. Zarate had a good impact when the frontmen at Bilic's disposal
missed with injuries.

West Ham therefore now have a job on their hands to sign a good forward to
replace Zarate and add depth to their brilliant but injury-prone attack.
West Ham chairman David Sullivan said that they are desperately trying their
best to add a new attacking recruit with a week until the window closes.
After making it clear and official that they are in hunt of an attacker who
can add sharpness to their forward line, the fans have every reason to be
optimistic.

But January transfer window is not the time when you have the best options
available. Most clubs are not open to the idea of letting their stars go
despite being offered the right fee as there is very little time and
opportunity to replace the player with a suitable footballer. West Ham
should not have let Zarate go in the winter. The Argentine did decently in
the first half for them when all of the other three strikers were suffering
from injuries. He has played the most number of minutes among the West Ham
strikers in the Premier League, mostly as a left winger, though.

Zarate's versatility to play as the secondary striker or a wide forward is
another huge thing the Hammers will miss. He was suited perfectly for
Bilic's counter attacking football. His pace, direct running, skills, vision
and selfless play would have helped them to keep up their form for the rest
of the season. And the three strikers the Hammers are left with are not the
best in terms of fitness and Zarate could have been useful if the West Ham
attack suffers another injury scare. Moreover, Carroll and Sakho are injured
now and the only striker remaining fit is Enner Valencia.

If the Hammers cannot sign a good replacement of Zarate in the remainder of
the transfer window, they will regret letting Zarate go. They also did not
receive a healthy transfer fee for the Argentine. West Ham are very much
likely to finish in the top six this season and if they could keep up the
good work, they could have signed a good striker in the summer for Zarate
when plenty of options and time are there but letting Zarate go in the
winter can prove to be a bad decision they made.

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Slaven Bilic staying tight lipped over reunion with top Turkish duo ahead of
deadline day
HITC
Damien Lucas

West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic has spoken on transfer speculation linking
him with a move for two top talents in Turkey. The Hammers have been one of
the standout teams in the Premier League this season and sit sixth with 15
games remaining. Bilic's revolution has got off to a flying start and his
side, glittering with stars like Dimitri Payet, are well poised for an
assault on the European places. But with injuries constantly unsettling his
side, the former Croatia boss has been linked with a host of players before
the January transfer window closes on Monday.

Turkish delight?

And he is remaining tight lipped on two of them after being heavily linked
with moves for midfield duo Gokhan Tore and Tolgay Arslan at his old club
Besiktas. Arslan was one of the big success stories of Bilic's tenure at the
Turkish giants after the midfielder went on to star following his bargain
transfer from Hamburg for less than £500,000. Arslan scored a memorable goal
for Bilic's side as they knocked Liverpool out of the Europa League last
season. And according to Turkish sports website Fanatik Bilic was rumoured
to have promised Arslan the prospect of Premier League football should he
take charge of an English side.

Tore boy

West Ham have also been linked with Arslan's teammate Tore since Bilic's
arrival. The former Chelsea youth prospect was close to a move to East
London in the summer and Bilic told the same website: "The West Ham fans
would have loved him but it did not happen we could not agree a deal." With
the transfer window in full swing, Bilic has spoken out on fresh links to
the duo but is keeping his cards close to his chest. "I have heard the
rumours linking us with Gökhan Töre and Tolgay Arslan but I do not want to
comment on that right now," Bilic told Fanatik.

So there you have it, West Ham could well be in the running to do some
business as they push for a shock tilt at the Champions League places. It
would be a welcome boost for supporters who have been left wondering just
how good their season could have been had they not suffered a glut of
injuries to key players like Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini, Diafra Sakho,
Andy Carroll and Winston Reid.

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Burak Yilmaz hands in transfer request amid West Ham United interest
HITC
Dan Coombs

Burak Yilmaz is strongly linked with West Ham. Burak Yilmaz has handed in a
transfer request in order to force a move to West Ham, The Times report. The
Galatasaray striker has been heavily linked with a switch to the Premier
League side since the weekend. Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reported yesterday
that Hammers vice-chairman Karren Brady is to fly to Turkey to negotiate.
Yilmaz, 30, has a contract until 2019 and Galatasaray are under no pressure
to sell, but his transfer request could change their stance. He has nine
goals in 15 Super Lig games this season, and is also aiming to play a part
at Euro 2016, with 19 goals in 42 appearances for his country. HITC reported
this week that the Hammers face competition from Tottenham, Liverpool and
Stoke City for his signature, but are showing the strongest interest. West
Ham are also negotiating to sign Fenerbahce forward Emmanuel Emenike, with
SkySports reporting rival interest from Crystal Palace.

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