Daily WHUFC News - 30th July 2016

Jurcevic - We were not satisfied
WHUFC.com

Nikola Jurcevic admitted NK Domzale deserved to earn a UEFA Europa League
third qualifying round first leg advantage over West Ham United in Slovenia.
The home side secured a 2-1 victory over the Hammers thanks to Matic Crnic's
double, with Mark Noble's penalty snatching a valuable away goal in between
the winger's own spot-kick and individual run and accurate finish. Assistant
manager Jurcevic – in charge for the night while Slaven Bilic served
completed a two-match UEFA touchline ban – conceded that the PrvaLiga's
third-best side had been the better team at Stadion Stozice and said his own
side would need to improve to progress. The second leg will take place next
Thursday evening at the London Stadium, where a 54,000 crowd will hope to
see the English team turn things around in their first fixture at their new
home. "First I want to say well done to Domzale because they won today and
they were really good," said former Croatia international Jurcevic. "Our
performance was not so good, and maybe I can say it was average in the first
half and it was 1-1. We were not satisfied with this result and in the
second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team and won 2-1. "OK,
we were maybe not in our top form because it was our first official game and
we were without some very important players and only had young players on
the bench, but this is not an excuse, I must say. "Domzale was better and I
hope and I am sure we will be better next week. It will be very difficult
but I'm optimistic and I hope it will be a different game in the Olympic
Stadium. It's a special game because it's the first game at the Olympic
Stadium with about 54,000 spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this
game in our stadium because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it
will be very tough because Domzale showed they are a good team. We must
improve next week, with more players back in the squad, and I hope we can
win the first game at the Olympic Stadium."

Jurcevic stated that West Ham will have to delve into the transfer market to
add reinforcements after losing Turkey winger Gokhan Tore to a knee injury.
Summer loan signing Tore joins Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini in the
treatment room, while the assistant boss also admitted Euro 2016 stars
Angelo Ogbonna, James Collins and Dimitri Payet are unlikely to feature in
the return game with Domzale. Despite those setbacks, the former Croatia and
Besiktas No2 insisted that the Hammers are desperate to reach the Europa
League group stages after falling short a year ago. "We have a new situation
as it's the first year in a new Stadium and we have big ambitions for
Europe," he said. "The Premier League is the most important, but we have
absolutely big ambitions, we want to win and we will do all we can in the
Olympic Stadium to go to the Play-off round and go to the group stage. "It's
difficult to say which players will play because Gokhan Tore was injured in
training on Monday and he must have a scan. Maybe we will possibly do
something in the transfer market because we need some players in some
positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are injured and cannot
play for a long time. "Next week, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be
in training so we maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have
the same squad. "Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It
was a very easy training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his
knee. He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"With Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from
America, where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. We
don't know, but we think he will not be fit for the next game against
Domzale."

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Byram – We'll put it right
WHUFC.com

Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
West Ham United suffered 2-1 defeat to Slovenian side NK Domzale on Thursday
Sam Byram played the 90 minutes in UEFA Europa League third qualifying round
first leg
Hammers welcome Domzale for London Stadium opener in return leg on 4 August

Sam Byram says the Hammers will right the wrongs of Thursday's 2-1 defeat to
NK Domzale when they welcome the Slovenian side to London Stadium for the
second leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie next week.
The Hammers suffered a disappointing loss on a frustrating night in
Ljubljana, as a double strike from Matic Crnic ensured the home side would
be taking a slender advantage into the return game. But with another week's
preparation under their belts, Byram is sure West Ham will put up a better
showing in the first game at their new home to turn the tie around. "We've
got the second leg to focus on now," he said. "We're disappointed to lose
here as we thought we would be coming away with a result. "There are things
to work on and we can't dwell on it now. We just have to look to the next
one. They're probably a bit fitter than us [at this stage in their season],
but in all fairness we should be beating teams like that. "We have better
quality and we play in one of the top divisions in the world so we're
disappointed with the result."

On a personal level, Byram was happy to be back in Slaven Bilic's starting
XI for the first time since the home Premier League win over Sunderland on
27 February, and is keen to play his part as the Hammers look to overturn
Domzale's lead. He explained: "It was my first experience of the Europa
League and I really enjoyed that. It is just a shame about the result. "We
flew back on Thursday night and have a day to recover, but then we'll
regroup and work towards the next one. Hopefully we'll do better at home.
"It's going to be our first game at the new Stadium and it is exciting times
for the Club. "We won't let ourselves get too down. There are things to work
on, but we will go into the next one positively and we're looking forward to
the second leg."

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A REFEREE ANALYSIS – METE KALKAVAN
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:38PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk

It's great to be back writing for The West Ham Way, after some very
promising signs from the English FA representatives at the European
Championships, I hope to see improved decision making by referees this
season in the Premier League. I've mentioned in The West Ham Way's June
fanzine that there are some big changes to the Laws of the Game which will
definitely be interesting for next season. With the club going in the right
direction, a 7th place finish and an emotional farewell to the Boleyn
Ground. We enter a very exciting period in the club's history and
potentially bring Europa League group stage football to the Olympic Stadium
this season. Our European adventure starts against NK Domžale in Slovenia
and this is the first meeting between the Slovenian and English club. Mete
Kalkavan from Istanbul, Turkey is the referee in the middle for this 3rd
Round Europa League 1st leg tie.

What a very interesting first half! Looking at the challenges by NK Domžale,
I thought I was watching a different sport with some of them being very
questionable and unnecessary with some even going unpunished. Andy Carroll
was the most fouled player in the first half and the first caution of the
game went to the NK Domžale centre-back for pulling Carroll down outside the
box. I must mention that the International Football Association Board (IFAB)
want to crack down on "intolerable behaviour" by the players. Running to
contest decisions, arguing face-to-face with officials, and "visibly
disrespectful" actions will result in yellow cards and if this was a Premier
League game, Carroll will needs to control his reaction after protesting
with the assistant referee. The biggest talking point of the half was the
harsh penalty awarded to NK Domžale Antonio lost the ball deep inside the
NK Domžale half and after a very good counter attack, the NK Domžale striker
dummied and his shot grazed between Håvard Nordtveit's arm and rib cage. The
Turkish referee pointed to the spot but I feel this is a very harsh
decision. Having said that, I think the motion of Nordtveit's arm toward the
ball made up referee's mind and deemed it as intentional handball.
Regardless, in my opinion there was no obvious intent to stop/interfere with
an attack, the one thing the referee did get correct was to only punish
Nordtveit was a caution, and not to send off the Norwegian. The law for
Denying an Obvious Goalscoring Opportunity has changed and does not always
warrant in a red card. Players committing accidental fouls that deny
goal-scoring opportunities in the penalty area will not be automatically
sent off, with a yellow card sufficient punishment. The Turkish referee also
awarded West Ham a penalty in the first half and this decision I do agree
with. Andy Carroll sent the ball back in the box in the direction of Winston
Reid after NK Domžale half cleared the danger. Reid won the ball in the air
before the NK Domžale goalkeeper came steaming out and clattering the Kiwi
international. The referee was correct to award the penalty on this occasion
after a reckless challenge by the young goalkeeper.

The second half seemed more calm than the first half with a couple of NK
Domžale players getting over enthusiastic in some of their attempts to win
the ball back. NK Domžale's Horvat was the only player cautioned in the
second half, the NK Domžale player went into the Turkish referee's note book
after a series of fouls topped off by pulling Pedro Obiang after a promising
counter attack. Apart from that, no big talking points to highlight but
overall it wasn't a great performance by the referee.

Overall, a nervy refereeing performance by Mete Kalkavan, it didnt look like
he was confident and convinced with his own decision making, especially
after awarding that very questionable penalty to NK Domžale in the first
half. It's now all to play for next Thursday in our first competitive game
at the Olympic Stadium. We go with an away goal and Adrian single handily
saved us from even more embarrassment. With a lot of the first time
available and a strong squad, we did miss that cutting edge especially with
Antonio looking a little loss. We definitely need to turn this around and
hope Slav and the team pull together and get a result. Throughout the
season, I will be giving my opinion on decision making by referees and
analysis for The West Ham Way for as many West Ham games I can, you can
follow me on Twitter @SamRoyden and tweet me using the hashtag #TWHWRef

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NK DOMZALE 2-1 WEST HAM UNITED – MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:14PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk

West Ham's European Away woes continued this evening as they were beaten 2-1
in Ljubljana by NK Domzale, which means the club have now lost their last
three European ties away from home.

Their fate could've been even worse if it wasn't for a spectacular double
save near the end of the game by Adrian to keep the scoreline at 2-1.

Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead from the spot after the referee awarded a
debatable penalty when the ball struck Havard Nordtveit's arm and then he
grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal when Michail Antonio was caught
well out of position in the second half.

Mark Noble converted the Hammer's spot kick awarded for a foul by the
goalkeeper on Winston Reid.

The Hammers went into the game with a strong line-up including Adrian in
goal.

The back four consisted of Michail Antonio and Sam Byram at fullback,
Winston Reid and Norwegian International Havard Nordtveit at centreback.
Captain Mark Noble anchored the midfield with Cheikh Kouyate and Pedro
Obiang. Sofiane Feghouli started on the right wing with Enner Valencia on
the left and Andy Carroll up front.

Gokhan Tore missed the game after suffering a knock in training last night
and the Hammers were also without their three Euro 2016 players, Payet,
Collins and Ogbonna plus the injured Cresswell and Lanzini.

Slaven Bilic had to watch the game from the stands as he was serving a
suspension for his sending off against FC Astra last year when the Hammers
were eliminated from the Europa League.

Although the Hammers are still in a strong position to qualify, many of the
faithful will be concerned by this performance when a team consisting of all
first team squad players struggled to break down Domzale and looked so weak
at the back on the counter attack. They will also be frustrated with the
Manager's continual insistence to play Michail Antonio at right back.

Only time will tell if the Manager will change his stance on Antonio but
rest assured if the past is anything to go by West Ham never produce two
poor performances in a row so they should be well prepared for the second
leg to open their new Stadium next Thursday.

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West Ham winger Gokhan Tore to have knee injury scanned
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 29/07/16 8:37am
SSN

West Ham winger Gokhan Tore requires a scan on his knee injury, after being
hurt in training on Monday. The Turkish winger, spending the season on loan
from Besiktas, missed Thursday's 2-1 Europa League qualifying defeat to
Slovenian side Domzale in Ljubljana. He will be assessed on Friday but with
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini also out, assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic concedes the club's hand might be forced. "Gokhan Tore was injured
in training on Monday and he must have a scan," Jurcevic told West Ham's
official. "He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"Maybe we will possibly do something in the transfer market because we need
players in some positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are
injured and cannot play for a long time. "Next week (for the second leg
against Domzale), Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be in training so we
maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have the same squad.
"Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It was a very easy
training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his knee. "With
Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from America,
where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. "We don't know,
but we think he will not be fit for the next game against Domzale."

West Ham must win their first game at the Olympic Stadium if they are to
overturn the deficit againts Domzale and progress in the Europa League, and
Jurcevic expects significant improvement from the team. "Domzale were really
good," he added. "Our performance was not so good and maybe I can say it was
average in the first half and it was 1-1. "We were not satisfied with this
result and in the second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team
and won 2-1. "Okay, we were maybe not in our top form because it was our
first game and we were without some very important players and only had
young players on the bench but this is not an excuse. "I am sure we will be
better next week. It will be very difficult but I'm optimistic and I hope it
will be a different game in the Olympic Stadium. "It's a special game
because it's the first game at the Olympic Stadium with about 54,000
spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this game in our stadium
because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it will be very tough
because Domzale showed they are a good team."

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West Ham branded "average" after Europa League defeat to Slovenian side NK
Domzale
23:32, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 23:33, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored either side of a Mark Noble penalty to leave the Hammers
with it all to do in thrit third qualifying round tie
The Mirror

West Ham were branded "average" and "bad" by assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic after suffering a shock Europa League defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale. Domzale, the third best team in Slovenia, secured a famous 2-1
win to take into next week's third qualifying round second leg which will be
the Hammers' first game at the Olympic Stadium. Matic Crnic, the game's best
player, fired Domzale ahead from the spot after Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball. Domzale keeper Axel Maraval flattened Winston Reid
as he came out to punch clear and Mark Noble grabbed the ball to coolly
level the game. The hosts regained the lead shortly after the re-start with
a slick passing move ending with tricky winger Crnic cutting in from the
left and bending his second of the night and the winner into Adrian's far
corner. West Ham No 2 Jurcevic was dissatisfied with the Hammers' display.
"Our performance was not so good the first half," Jurcevic remarked. "It was
average it was 1-1 at half time. We were satisfied with this score but in
the second half we played bad.
"Domzale were the better team. We are not now maybe in our top form because
it is our first official game but this is not an excuse. Domzale was better
and I hope we will we better in one week in the second game. "It is a
special game first game at the stadium about 60,000 spectators and we must
be better. We must win this game in our stadium because we have big
ambitions in Europe. "But it will be tough because Domzale showed they are a
very good team. We hope we can be better." West Ham are sweating on the
fitness of summer loan signing Gokhan Tore after he suffered a knee injury
in training on the eve of the match. The Turkish winger due to have will
have a scan on the injury today.

West Ham United via GettyAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and
Gaber DobrovoljcAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and Gaber
Dobrovoljc
West Ham: Adrian 6; Antonio 4 (Quina 81, 5), Nordtveit 6, Reid 6, Byram 5;
Obiang 7, Kouyate 6; Feghouli 7, Noble 6, Valencia 6; Carroll 5.

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West Ham set to confirm loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri
Jonathan Calleri to join from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
22-year-old striker scored 16 goals for Brazilian club Sao Paulo last season
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic says his squad is still too small to compete
Summer target Carlos Bacca is yet to decide on a move to West Ham
By RORY O'CALLAGHAN FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:41, 29 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 29 July 2016

West Ham are set to confirm the loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan
Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado as Slaven Bilic looks to build a squad
capable of fighting on four fronts this season. The 22-year-old, who made
his name at Boca Juniors, spent the majority of the last campaign on loan at
Brazilian club Sao Paulo - scoring 16 goals in 31 appearances. Calleri, who
was reportedly a January transfer target of Chelsea last season, is regarded
as one of the most talented young strikers in South America.

JONATHAN CALLERI'S CAREER STATS
Born: September 23, 1993 (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Clubs: All Boys, Boca Juniors, Deportivo Maldonado, Sao Paulo
Appearances: 120
Goals: 45
Honours: Primera Division 2015 (Boca Juniors), Copa Argentina 2015 (Boca
Juniors)

The Argentine is set to join up with compatriot Manuel Lanzini, who could
miss the start of the season after injuring his knee on international duty
with Argentina at the Olympic Games in Rio. Calleri's arrival at West Ham
eases some of the pressure on Bilic, who admitted this week that he believes
his squad is too small to compete in the Premier League.
'We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to
join us and they are extremely quality players,' said Bilic. 'Hopefully we
are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation,
which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a
squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League.'
West Ham have been knocked back in their attempts to bolster their squad
this summer, with targets Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette both
turning down a move to the Olympic Stadium. Meanwhile, AC Milan striker
Carlos Bacca is yet to make a decision over a possible transfer to East
London after the two clubs agreed a £26million deal for the Colombian.
West Ham have already signed five new players this summer, including former
Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli, but Bilic is keen to add to his squad
before the start of the new campaign. The Hammers could be competing in four
separate competitions this season, if they can overturn a 2-1 first-leg
deficit against Slovenian club NK Domzale in the Europa League's third
qualifying round.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Former West Ham player Jack Collison is still living
his footballing dream.
By Sokkaa -29th July 2016
http://sokkaa.com/

Jack dislocated his right kneecap against Wigan Athletic in March 2009,
which led to a string of knee injuries and changed the course of his career,
which was heading into a bright direction.

Collison began his career at the age of sixteen. He scored 14 goals in 121
games for the Hammers between 2007-2014. Post retirement at a meagre age of
27, one that is considered the prime age for a footballer to peak, Jack is
still chasing his dream off the pitch. I caught up with the Ex-Welsh
international footballer to discuss life post football.

1. Describe life after football.

Interesting, would probably be the best word to describe it. At the
beginning I really struggled, it was hard to even watch a game on TV let
alone go and watch one live. But by missing a full season prior to
announcing my retirement after a brief comeback with Peterborough United, I
decided to get motivated and start planning for the future. I threw myself
into various ventures and made sure I was busy. Currently I am absolutely
loving coaching and through this I have fell back in love with the beautiful
game.

2. Very often, people and youngsters these days believe that footballers
have an easy life. How does it feel when you look back at the dreaded
injury, which changed your career plan?

If I'm honest I feel very blessed that I got a small taste of the big time.
I absolutely loved every moment of being a footballer and there is no better
feeling than walking out in front of thousands of people on a Saturday to
play the game you love. I was unfortunate in the way I had so many injuries
throughout my career, and deep down there will always be the sickening
feeling of 'what if' .people don't often get to see the endless hours in the
gym, rehabbing and that side of the game for injured players, but now I can
no longer play I appreciate the moments out on the pitch even more.
3. Is it true that Chelsea was your club as a kid? Who was your
favourite player?

Yea I used to go to Chelsea with my dad when I could. I used to love
watching Zola and it was unbelievable to play under one of my heroes at West
Ham. Even then he was the best player on the pitch, he was that good.

4. We've been hearing a lot about the Jack Collison Soccer School opened
along with your old friend. Tell us more about the school?

During a period when I was injured I decided to start a new project.
Alongside my good friend Russell short we felt there was an opportunity to
bring high class coaching to grass roots level. We have a heavy emphasis on
having fun and creating a positive environment for the kids to learn. We're
also very lucky that with our contacts we have managed to provide our JCss
kids with memorable moments, such as meeting premier league footballers and
Olympic gold medalists. I am very passionate about the soccer school and
it's been great to watch it grow.

5. In this day and age, many sportsmen opt to start some kind of
training camp or school post retirement. How would you describe yours
differently?

I believe we create a special environment with our energetic coaches. They
really inspire the kids and help them step out of their comfort zone and
enjoy playing football. We are also very lucky that we can get some
fantastic guests down and inspire the kids in that way. We try to keep it
fresh, innovative and moving with the times. I also hope our passion shines
throughout our coaching and we aim to send every kid home with a smile.
6. Let's return to West Ham days for a bit. What was your favourite
moment in a Hammers shirt?

I had a few wonderful moments. I throughly enjoyed my first goal and my
debut but the ultimate highlight would have to be getting promoted at
Wembley with West Ham. The season as a whole was an incredible journey and
winning in front of all those fans was a wonderful experience.

7. Many youngsters find it tough to deal with injuries or being side
lined these days. What advice would you give young players linking this to
your injury and the way you handled the massive news?

I would say always have a back up plan. Try and be proactive and plan for
life after football. Other than that I would say enjoy every moment whilst
your playing. You never know when it will be over so cherish every moment.

8. Is it important to be mentally tough in football? Aggression or
patience?

Yes you have to be very mentally tough and the psychology side is having a
larger impact on football. It's a lot more common nowadays for teams to use
psychologists at all levels. I have found that the kids who seem to go on
and do well have a burning desire to succeed. They throw themselves into
every situation, always looking to improve. It's almost as if you can see
the fire within certain people and that's imperative to make it. Once you
get there patience is essential as there will be many frustrating moments
alongside the great times, it's how you deal with the tough times that often
define you as a player and a person.

9. Wales had a dream tournament at the Euros. What should they do to
maintain and carry on this form until the FIFA WC in 2018?

They need to keep building on the positives. It's great news that Chris
Coleman has signed a new contract and hopefully him and his team can
continue to build something special. Now the country has had a taste of the
big time they will be keen to get the team to the World Cup. They certainly
have the players, and foundations to do that.

10. Do you see yourself as a club manager anytime soon?

I have a lot to learn in terms of management but I am really enjoying my
time with the u18s at Peterborough. However I am very motivated, always keen
to learn and strive to be the best I can possibly be. If that is enough to
get me into management then great, I certainly would love the chance.

11. I see that you're studying for a degree in sports writing and
broadcasting, what's new on that front?

Yes it is another passion of mine. I have always been a keen writer but
never published any of my work up until recently. Once again during a period
of being injured I saw the course on the PfA website and decided to try it
out. It has been very testing at times but I am half way through and very
keen to finish it off. I am also currently working on a book so watch this
space.

12. Where do you see the JC Soccer School heading in the next five years?

My partner Russell and I have big plans. We are keen to crack America and
have our second camp in Philadelphia coming up in a few weeks that we are
really excited about. We want to take it global and although we have only
been running for 18 months we have made good progress.

13. There was a JC Soccer School camp in USA recently. How were the
atmosphere and the experience??

It was an incredible experience in Boston. I have already worked with some
American kids previously and it was great to get the chance to again. They
are so competitive, and keen to learn. It's very refreshing and I'm excited
to try and create something special state side and improve the standard of
'soccer' wherever we go.

14. Shefford is a place closest to your heart. Recite some childhood
football memories?

I grew up in Shefford and had a wonderful childhood there. I still have
great relationships with the local schools and teams so it made sense to
take the soccer school to Bedfordshire. We have a great product and the
local kids seem to like what we have to offer. It's also great to see many
local people going out of their way to help us out in whatever way they can,
especially Robert Bloomfield and Samuel Whitbread schools, they have been
incredible.

15. Who will win the Premier League 2017/2018 and why?

Manchester United – simply because of Mourinho. I think he is incredible.

16. If you had to give one piece of advice to aspiring players, what would
it be?

Just to enjoy every moment. Whether it's training or a game. Love what you
do and cherish the good moments, those special wins and wonderful goals.

17. Five years down the line, what do we see Jack Collison doing?

Who knows. Maybe coaching, maybe in America. I'm really enjoying my role at
the moment and keen to improve so we will see where it takes me.

Thank you Jack for sharing your experiences with Sokkaa and we wish you the
very best for all your future endeavours.

Original interview by Tina MATEEN for Sokkaa

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West Ham captain Mark Noble bemoans Domzale penalty but admits Hammers
deserved to lose
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard

West Ham midfielder Mark Noble was not convinced by the penalty that gave NK
Domzale an early lead at Stozice Stadium. However Noble admitted the
Slovenian minnows deserved the victory that has left West Ham's Europa
League future in doubt. The Hammers enter the second leg of their Europa
League third-round qualifier with a 2-1 deficit after Matic Crnic pounced in
each half, the opener delivered from the spot after debutant Havard
Nordtveit was adjudged to have handled the ball. Captain Noble equalised
with a penalty, but West Ham were comfortably second best and their skipper
has demanded an improvement in their first outing at the Olympic Stadium
next Thursday. "I don't think it was a penalty in the first half, but you
have to get on with it and we ended up losing the game," Noble told BT
Sport. "Playing at the Olympic Stadium is something to look forward to, but
obviously this result isn't ideal. "It's our first game there and we've got
to be positive - I'm sure the fans will be behind us - and win the game.
"You're going to miss a player like Dimitri Payet of course, but that's no
excuse. We had a good enough team to come here and win but we didn't do
that. "These games are tough, but we didn't play well. They played well and
deserved it."

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Hungry Feghouli will provide West Ham width
Adrian Clarke 29/07/2016
The Premier League

This summer's transfer window still has over a month to run but already
we've seen a host of exciting newcomers sign for Premier League clubs. As
part of our build up to the 2016/17 campaign, tactics expert Adrian Clarke
runs the rule over what some of the new faces will offer in the coming
months. After looking at Middlesbrough's Marten de Roon, Clarke's attentions
turn to a winger hoping to make up for lost time at West Ham United. The
signing of Sofiane Feghouli is sure to give West Ham supporters yet further
cause for optimism in the club's first season at the London Stadium. The
right-sided midfielder, 26, should be approaching his peak years following
his move from Valencia. Fast, powerful and extremely positive on the ball,
Feghouli will relish the opportunity of taking on Premier League full-backs
on English soil. It's expected that the Algerian will compete with Michail
Antonio for a starting berth, but with the ex-Nottingham Forest man often
utilized at right-back, there's a possibility the two could combine to form
an athletic partnership down that side of the pitch. In many respects last
season's Hammers squad was overloaded with creators favouring to open up
defences from central positions, so by adding another touchline-hugging
winger to their ranks it creates far better balance within the group. Phil
Neville, his former coach at Valencia, once described the winger as a
big-game player, and with 10 UEFA Champions League goals to his name, there
is an element of pedigree to his record. Although far from prolific, the
Algeria international has scored between five and seven goals in each of the
last five campaigns. Last season was a virtual write-off however. After
falling out with Valencia's owner, the winger saw his game-time limited and
he grew into a figure of great frustration. With fire in his belly, a fresh
challenge, and the chance to make up for lost time in east London, Feghouli
could be just the right man for Slaven Bilic. Feghouli scored in West Ham's
3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Karlsruher SC. Watch full-match
highlights.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 29th July 2016

Domzale double downs Hammers
WHUFC.com

NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round First Leg, Stadion Stozice,
Ljubljana, Slovenia,

West Ham United have work to do in the second leg of their UEFA Europa
League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale after falling to a 2-1
defeat in Slovenia on Thursday.

A Matic Crnic double gave the hosts a first leg advantage despite Mark
Noble's successful penalty conversion in the first half.

Luka Elsner's Domzale side were impressive and posed a threat on the break
throughout, not least from their Slovenian international Crnic on the left
hand side.

With Slaven Bilic serving the second game of a UEFA touchline ban, the
Hammers were unable to find a route back into the contest once Crnic has
re-established the hosts' lead soon after the interval and will need to up
their game at London Stadium a week today.

The visitors were dealt an early shock when Havard Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball inside the area with eleven minutes on the clock.

The Norway international was booked for his protests and Bilic's men had to
deal with falling behind as Crnic confidently beat Adrian's dive with a
well-placed penalty into the top left corner.

West Ham were not behind for long, however, as the referee pointed to the
spot again - and this time in their favour - seven minutes later.

There was no doubt about this decision as Winston Reid beat goalkeeper Axel
Maraval to flick the ball on and felt the full force of his attempted punch
clear.

Noble is Mr Reliable from the spot and he placed the ball down the middle to
register his 25th successful penalty conversion in Claret and Blue.

If a goal apiece in the opening 18 minutes represented an open start, the
game was not about to close up yet, with both sides putting more emphasis on
their attacking than defending.

Domzale were finding joy down their left flank and the goalscorer Crnic was
left in space 28 minutes in, and only just missed the onrushing men with his
dangerous low cross.

At the other end, Pedro Obiang shot not far wide of the left hand post after
Andy Carroll flicked a left-wing corner on, but the chances continued to
flow and Domzale's Marko Alvir went close with a header over the top.

As the half drew to a close the teams traded chances - Benjamin Morel
curling a free-kick over at one end before Nordtveit headed over at the
other.

Domzale's threat down the left was clear in the first half, and from that
source that they retook the lead just four minutes after the interval.

Crnic was the man on target again, cutting inside before finding the bottom
right hand corner of the net from 15 yards.

Ten minutes later, Adrian intervened crucially with a touch behind to
prevent Jure Balkovec from adding a third and the Hammers needed to regroup.

Midway through the half the visitors shifted their personnel across the
pitch, with Nordveit moving to right back, Kouyate centre half and Antonio
on the left wing.

However, it was Domzale who still looked the more threatening and Zan Majer
lined up a shot from 25 yards and Adrian had to acrobatically touch over.

Seven minutes from time Noble did well to jockey Crnic and deflect his shot
behind, and Adrian had to make a fine double save at the death, meaning the
Hammers did not have to make up more than a single-goal deficit at London
Stadium next week.

NK Domzale: Maraval; Brachi, Horic, Dobrovoljc, Balkovec; Alvir, Horvat,
Majer (Vetrih 85); Morel (Repas 77), Mance, Crnic (Juninho 90)
Subs: Klop, Milic, Vuk, Sirok, Blazic

Goals: Crnic pen 11, Crnic 49

Booked: Horvat

West Ham United: Adrian; Antonio (Quina 80), Nordtveit, Reid, Byram; Noble,
Kouyate, Obiang; Feghouli, Carroll, Valencia
Subs: Randolph, Burke, Oxford, Page, Cullen, Fletcher

Goal: Noble pen 18

Booked: Nordtveit

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NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
THU, 28 JUL 2016
EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING THIRD ROUND - 1ST LEG
BBC.co.uk

West Ham endured a tricky start to their season as they lost 2-1 to NK
Domzale in a Europa League qualifier in Slovenia. The Hammers are well
placed to progress in next week's second leg - the first competitive game at
the Olympic Stadium - thanks to Mark Noble's penalty. But for large periods,
Slaven Bilic's side were on the back foot. Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead
from the spot and then grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal. Next week
promises to be a sell-out encounter, with more than 50,000 inside the
Hammers' new home. Noble's penalty has given West Ham an away goal that
means a 1-0 win in the home leg will take them through. But in front of
barely 3,000 in Ljubjana - the game was moved from the home of Domzale - the
Premier League side faded badly after a bright first-half showing and looked
well short of match sharpness.
Crnic and Noble exchanged early penalties - with Domzale's awarded for a
Havard Nordtveit handball and West Ham's for a foul on Winston Reid. The
home side then went ahead at the start of the second half when Crnic cut in
from the left and curled home. West Ham goalkeeper Adrian had to be at his
best to prevent Amedej Vetrih from adding a third with a spectacular late
save. The Hammers were without last season's standout player Dimitri Payet,
and while new signing Sofiane Feghouli enjoyed an impressive start, he
barely had a touch in the second half. And at the back Bilic looks to have
problems. Michail Antonio was at fault for Crnic's second goal and looked
fragile all night, while former Leeds full-back Sam Byram looked makeshift
on the left. First-choice Aaron Cresswell is set to be out for four months
with a knee injury and Bilic may need to enter the transfer market before
the start of the season.

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THE EUROPA LEAGUE - A BLESSING OR A CURSE?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 4:57PM
TheWestHamWay.couk

Europa League 12
This article is written by Armchair Hammer

We got off to a blistering start last season. Confidence was high almost
from the first kick off. We had an (almost) fully fit squad to choose from.
A new manager to bring us a more entertaining brand of football. Some
exciting signings. And the prospect of an emotional farewell to our
spiritual home. With the benefit of hindsight, it was a season destined for
great things. That win at Arsenal set the tone for our entire season.

Fast forward twelve months and our journey begins again.

But it's a little different this year.



We have a new stadium which is a bit of a venture into the unknown. There's
some injuries to contend with to important players. The promise of big
signings hasn't materialised. Our most important players are a few weeks
behind on fitness because of their involvement with Euro 2016. And there's
the prospect of more games.

Loads more games.

You might be thinking - that's no different to last season. And you'd be
right.

But I can't help but feel the Europa League adventure last season was far
down our list of priorities.

This season, I'd expect it to be taken a little more seriously. The club
should be aiming for at least the group stages to demonstrate year on year
progression. It's reasonable to expect that as a fan and it's perfectly
achievable. Exciting, yes. But also my biggest cause for concern.

Cast your mind back to our Europa League cameo last season. We qualified
through the fair play route - which turned out to be a little ironic
considering our dismissal record in the competition. Youth were given a run
out and players like Oxford and Samuelsen were given some valuable game
time. As the rounds progressed, we saw more first teamers drafted in.



The players were gaining fitness. Rather than getting match sharpness
through a series of friendlies, we were having to compete - and win - to
progress. It meant that by the time we lined up to face Arsenal, the team
was already near full throttle. I suspect that was a decisive factor in the
win. We caught them cold.

Now this season, we are entering the Europa League a little later.
Pre-season training has reverted back to type - friendlies. With key players
(Payet and Collins) enjoying a staggered break after their summer exertions,
I doubt they'll be fully fit for the start of the season. Cresswell is out
for a few months and will be joined in the treatment room by Lanzini.

Our search for a striker is dragging on longer than the board would like it
to, I'm sure. Bringing in players from other leagues can be a tricky
process. You often see new signings struggle in the Premiership in their
first season. There's often a new language, new culture, a faster more
physical brand of football to contend with. The later players are signed in
the transfer window, the less time they have to adapt to their new
surroundings before the season starts - and for their teammates to adapt to
them.

Now those are my reasons - and here is my point.

I'm doubting our ability to start the Premier League season in the manner we
did last year - and getting that early momentum that carried us through a
brilliant season.

I hope I'm wrong.

But if I'm not, we'll need all of our best performers at their peak as we
head towards the Christmas run-in. Whether that is to enable us to stay in
touch with the top teams - or keep away from the relegation battle.

The thing is, if we don't start collecting wins early in the season, and we
qualify for the Europa League group stages, the games will come thick and
fast as we head towards the end of the year. We all know what the outcome
tends to be for teams on Sunday's that play in Europe on a Thursday.

For those of you that haven't noticed the pattern - they lose - or draw at
best. Rarely does an inexperienced team playing in Europe win a game the
following weekend.

I can hear you all groaning - telling me I'm being way too negative.

But bear with me. I'm not saying this will happen - I hope it doesn't. It
would make for an incredibly uncomfortable second half of the season.

What I want to see is Bilic using the Europa League to help develop a number
of our promising youngsters. Give them a chance to gain the experience
they'll need to push on and feature in the Premier League. They might make
mistakes - and they might lose, but it'll help them learn.

They might surprise us too - and qualify for the next round.

With our big guns securing us valuable points in the Premiership, we would
have the luxury of being able to bring them in to European games at the
latter stages, safe in the knowledge we have points on the board
domestically.

In case you are wondering, my son doesn't share my concerns. He thinks we'll
win the league - and possibly a cup. That's the beauty of youth - you're not
scarred by history.

What do you think? Am I worrying needlessly?

Are we at that stage as a club where we should be challenging on all fronts
or would you accept a lower priority for the cup competitions in order to
secure a better league finish?

I'll look forward to reading your thoughts.

COYI
Armchair Hammer

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NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Matic Crnic scores twice to stun Hammers in Europa
League first leg
By Tom Bennett
Last Updated: 28/07/16 9:44pm
SSN

West Ham were beaten 2-1 by NK Domzale as Matic Crnic scored twice to give
the Slovenian underdogs a narrow advantage after the first leg of the Europa
League third qualifying round tie.

Domzale took the lead against the run of play after 11 minutes on Thursday
night when a shot cannoned off the arm of debutant Havard Nordtveit and the
referee pointed to the spot.

It was a contentious decision, with the centre-back arguing that he was
unable to get out of the way, but the decision had been made and Crnic
calmly dispatched the penalty beyond Adrian.

West Ham crashed out of the Europa League at this same stage last season,
but there were no signs of nerves after going behind and it took the Hammers
just seven minutes to draw level. A spot of head tennis inside the area
resulted in Domzale goalkeeper clearing out Winston Reid with a punch to the
head, prompting the second penalty of the game - and a far less contentious
one.

The ever-reliable Mark Noble sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it
1-1, but West Ham struggled to create any further clear-cut chances in a
rusty first-half performance.


Manager Slaven Bilic, banned from the touchline as he served the second of a
two-game suspension, would have been hoping for better from his team after
the break.

But it was Domzale who stepped up a level and the hosts secured the win when
the excellent Crnic curled a finish into the far corner from the edge of the
box after getting in behind the out-of-position Antonio in the 49th minute.

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NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Mark Noble scores away goal but Hammers slump to
defeat in Slovenia
21:34, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 21:43, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded an impressive
victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash
The Mirror

West Ham have it all to do in next week's second leg after slumping to
defeat in Slovenia. Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded
an impressive victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash. The
visitors fell behind after 11 minutes after a handball in the area, with
Crnic stepping up to fire the penalty into the top corner. However, the
Hammers levelled shortly after with a spot-kick of their own when Winston
Reid was clattered in the box.
Mark Noble stepped up to make no mistake from 12 yards. However, Domzale
restored their lead early in the second half when Crnic raced clear to fire
past Adrian. The Hammers must win at the Olympic Stadium next week to stand
any chance of progressing.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com