Preview - Watford
WHUFC.com
What's the story?
West Ham United return following the first international break of the season on Saturday when they welcome Watford to London Stadium.
The Hammers are looking to make it two wins from two in the Premier League at their new home, following a single-goal victory over AFC Bournemouth last time out.
Defeats to Astra Giurgiu in the UEFA Europa League and Manchester City followed that Michail Antonio-inspired win against the Cherries, but Slaven Bilic and his team will be confident of getting back on track following the two-week hiatus in league action.
Eleven first teamers went away on international duty after the Etihad Stadium assignment, and Bilic was happy to welcome back all eleven fit and ready to take on the Hornets.
Watford come to east London with a new manager at the helm for the 2016/17 season, following the appointment of Italian Walter Mazzarri in the summer.
Mazzarri, who was previously in charge at the likes of Sampdoria, Napoli and Inter Milan, took over the reins from Quique Sanchez Flores, who led Watford to an FA Cup semi-final and mid-table in the Premier League in their first season back at the top table.
Watford were active in the summer transfer market, with Juventus winger Roberto Pereyra, Newcastle United full-back Daryl Jaanmat, Younes Kaboul from Sunderland, Nigerian youngster Isaac Success and Italy international Stefano Okaka among their arrivals.
Having also kept hold of strike duo Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney, who notched 28 league goals between them last term, the Hertfordshire team will be hoping for another successful campaign – although they have taken just one point from their opening three games.
Team news
Slaven Bilic will welcome back several of his attacking players to the fold for the visit of Watford, with Dimitri Payet set to start a game for the first time this season.
The 29-year-old played twice for France over the international break, creating several chances for his teammates after coming off the bench in their 0-0 draw with Belarus.
Simone Zaza could make his debut after signing from Juventus as the transfer deadline approached, while Alvaro Arbeloa has also arrived since the Hammers were last in action.
Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew, Diafra Sakho and Aaron Cresswell remain injured, but the boss has an otherwise fit squad to choose from.
Any links between the two?
Watford midfielder Valon Behrami was a Hammer between 2008 and 2011, playing 58 league games for the Club during that time.
The 31-year-old Switzerland international went on to play for Fiorentina, Napoli and Hamburg before joining the Hornets in 2015.
Last season the Hammers were defeated 2-0 at Vicarage Road, but gained revenge at the Boleyn Ground when two Mark Noble penalties and Andy Carroll's goal took them to a 3-1 win.
How do I get to the game?
Click here for information on how to get to London Stadium. Click here for information on the London Underground network and here for the latest news on National Rail.
Supporters who use West Ham station should note that from 30 August until late September there will be no step-free access to or from the DLR and Jubilee line.
Customers who require a lift service are advised to use Canning Town station instead, for the DLR or Jubilee line towards Stratford station.
If travelling from the local West Ham area, you can use local bus route 276 from stop P outside the station to Stratford High Street DLR station, then take the DLR to Stratford.
How can I watch the game?
The match will not be broadcast live in the UK, but supporters can follow all the action on whufc.com and on our social media channels.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five Talking Points – Friday
WHUFC.com
Premier League 2 returns
Edimilson Fernandes, Reece Oxford and Domingos Quina will be the star turns as West Ham United return to Premier League 2 action on Friday evening. A bumper crowd is expected at Dagenham & Redbridge's Chigwell Construction Stadium as the Hammers resume their Division Two campaign with the visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Terry Westley is also expected to field the in-form Toni Martinez, who has netted an outstanding five goals in four appearances in Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy. The Spanish striker – signed in the summer from Valencia – will have a strong team behind him, including Switzerland U21 midfielder Fernandes, England U20 star Oxford and Portuguese European U17 Championship winner Quina, exciting attackers Marcus Browne and Grady Diangana and Ireland U19 centre-half Declan Rice.
Admission is FREE for Season Ticket Holders and just £5 for Adults and £3 for Concessions otherwise, so what better way to spend your Friday evening?
Payet returns
While it would be foolish to suggest that the return of Dimitri Payet guarantees West Ham will enjoy a thumping win over Watford on Saturday, his presence will certainly give the Hammers a boost. According to his manager Slaven Bilic, the France playmaker not only creates and takes chances for himself, but he also makes his teammates better – the mark of a truly top-class player. Last season, the 29-year-old chalked up nine goals and 12 assists in just 30 Premier League appearances, while his 120 key passes and 192 crosses were the second and third-highest in the division respectively. It is stating the obvious, but West Ham are a better, more threatening – and, judging by the training ground photos of him laughing with captain Mark Noble – happier team with Dimitri Payet than without.
Saturday, 3pm at last!
For the first time this season, West Ham will play a match kicking-off at the traditional time of 3pm on a Saturday. With another 57,000 sell-out at London Stadium, the stage is set for a proper family day out for Hammers of all ages, with concourses open from 1pm. The weather forecast is not perfect, with the possibility of light rain, but temperatures of 21C (70F) are just about right for football. So, the message to every West Ham – and Watford – fan in attendance is to arrive early and enjoy yourselves!
What-ford?
Like West Ham, Watford have endured a testing start to 2016/17 fixture-wise, facing two of the Premier League's top guns in Chelsea and Arsenal and being knocked out of a cup competition by unfancied opposition – namely Gillingham in the EFL Cup second round. Like West Ham, the Hornets will feel their season starts for real now the first international break has been and gone. New coach Walter Mazzarri has a large and cosmopolitan squad at his disposal full of full internationals, a pair of potent strikers and an Argentine playmaker in Roberto Pereyra who will be key to opening up the Hammers' defence. With such a big group of players to pick from, Watford's team selection and tactics will be difficult to anticipate, but Slaven Bilic and his players can expect a far tougher test than they got from the soon-to-be FA Cup semi-finalists back in April.
Zaza zooms in
As will be the case with every Italian striker who follows in Paolo Di Canio's footsteps to east London, Simone Zaza's signing has caught the imagination of the Claret and Blue Army since completing his loan signing from Juventus. The shaven-headed, bearded forward is something of a man of mystery to many West Ham fans, who know little more of him than his missed penalty at Euro 2016, his clinical finish to win the Betway Cup, and his clinical training ground finishes which have generated plenty of excitement on social media. Zaza looks set to lead the line in Claret and Blue for the first time on Saturday, with anticipation high over what the former Sassuolo man will bring to Slaven Bilic's side.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A new matchday tradition with Betway
WHUFC.com
The matchday ritual. An essential part of most fans' build-up to a game. Whether it's to settle nerves, bring luck ahead of kick-off or just something you always do – it's almost as important as the football itself. From grabbing a pre-game pie to picking up a programme to add to your collection. Wearing your lucky scarf – even on a steaming hot day in August – or placing a quick bet – we all have one. Sometimes, it can leave you open for a bit of stick – 'You've picked them to win?' your mate pipes up when casting an eye over your weekly accumulator on the Betway app.
Even Bobby Moore had his own little tradition – always ensuring he was the last one in the changing room to put his shorts on. But from the players on the pitch to the fans in the stands, these little acts all add to the excitement of a match day. And whether that's at the Boleyn or West Ham's new home at London Stadium in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, for Hammers' fans, that will never change.
Which is why, as principal sponsors of the club, Betway want to help create a new tradition. As you may have seen dotted around the stadium concourse, we've installed eight new kiosks where you have the chance to win up to £5k, every home game, with the Betway £5k Predictor.
It's free to play and easy to use. You just visit the touchscreen terminal, predict the final score, who the first goalscorer will be, what minute you think they'll score and hit submit.
And if you're correct, you'll pocket the jackpot.
The game is simple to navigate, with only some basic fields of information to enter, and when you're done you'll get a text message confirming your prediction.
So if you think Dimitri Payet will get the goal, in the 20th minute and the Irons will win 3-0 on Saturday, you select that. Your picks might raise a couple of eyebrows with your mates, but if they come through, then you'll be the one laughing.
Of course, if you really believe in your selection, you'll have the chance to place a little bet on it as well. Dimitri is 6/1 to bag the first goal on Saturday!
And if you're new to Betway, you'll also get the benefit of an instant matched Free Bet up to £30 when you join us. So if you fancy yourself as a bit of an expert, have a canny ability to get the right result and think you know the score, then get involved.
A new chapter is being written in the club's history this season. And with Betway, you can help create a new tradition for a matchday.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Find your name on the Founders Walls
WHUFC.com
As Founders of West Ham United's new home at London Stadium, every single one of the Club's 52,000 Season Ticket Holders are taking their place in history.
As the heartbeat of the Hammers' momentous move to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, all of our Founders have been honoured on the new Founders Walls inside the Stadium.
You will be able to find your name on the Founders Wall in your Stand, as a momento to the part you have played
The Founders Walls are located in the Stadium concourse and to view where they are located, click here to see a map.
The East Stand Founders Walls can be found next to block 142, the Bobby Moore Stand wall next to block 153, West Stand wall next to block 156 and Sir Trevor Brooking Stand wall next to block 126.
To find your name, click on the Stand where you sit, and type Crtl+F (or Cmd+F on a Mac) on your keyboard for a search box to appear.
Enter your first and last name and press enter – your name should be highlighted, showing its location.
East Stand
West Stand
Bobby Moore Stand
Sir Trevor Brooking Stand
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Get with the Programme!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will wish Club legend Billy Bonds a happy 70th birthday with a special 20-page supplement being given away free with Saturday's Official Programme.
The collectible booklet, which will be given to every fan who buys a copy of the 100-page Watford issue for just £3.50, features a look back on the illustrious career of the four-time Hammer of the Year, two-time FA Cup-winning captain and all-time record appearance-maker.
With exclusive photographs charting the more than 25 years Bonds spent at the Club as player, coach and manager, there is plenty for every fan to enjoy.
Inside the Programme itself, Evening Standard correspondent and lifelong Hammer Ken Dyer talks to the man himself, reflecting on his time at the Club and his plans to celebrate his landmark birthday in typically understated fashion.
"You know me," he told Dyer. "Not too much fuss. Probably Just a quiet dinner with the family."
Elsewhere insider, a man who has made exactly 793 appearances less than Bonds is the subject of the main interview – deadline day signing and 2010 FIFA World Cup winner Alvaro Arbeloa.
The full-back reflects on his time with Real Madrid and the Spanish national team and looks forward to making his West Ham debut.
Veteran BBC journalist Jonathan Pearce also looks forward to his first appearance at London Stadium in Final Whistle, while Joint-Chairman David Sullivan, manager Slaven Bilic and captain Mark Noble all pen exclusive columns.
Opinion is provided by MirrorSport sports editor Matty Lawless and Paralympic champion and West Ham-supporting broadcaster Ade Adepitan, in conversation with Ian 'Moose' Abrahams.
There is also the latest news from around West Ham's new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park home, the Club's exciting social media channels and Premier League 2, U18 and Ladies' sides.
With the complete lowdown on Saturday's visitors Watford, the Official Programme is the essential guide to your London Stadium matchday. At just £3.50 for 100 action-packed pages, it's great value too!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ballots open for Southampton and Boro
WHUFC.com
The Claret Members' ballots for our next two Premier League home games against Southampton on Sunday 25 September and Middlesbrough on Saturday 1 October are now open.
With all tickets for the opening games against Bournemouth and Watford having been allocated in the Members' ballot, signing up gives you the best chance to watch the Hammers in action at London Stadium this season
Become a Claret Member here
To enter the ballots for Southampton and Middlesbrough, simply head to eticketing.co.uk/whufc, log in to your Ticketmaster account, select the fixture and add to basket.
The ballots for both matches are open now and will close at 5pm on Friday 16 September. Successful applicants will be notified by email by Monday 19 September.
The Club is keen to ensure that Claret Members can sit alongside friends and family for these unmissable fixtures, and so fans wishing to apply with other members should include all client reference numbers in the one transaction, and, if successful, will be seated together.
By becoming a Member today, supporters not only ensure access to the ballot, but will be guaranteed exclusive ticket priority for every Premier League home game during the first season in our stunning new Stadium.
With 52,000 plus Season Ticket Holders, an even greater number on the waiting list and tens of thousands of Claret Members already registered, Claret Membership is your access to home match tickets in this unique season.
Membership is priced at just £40 for Adults and £25 for Under-16s, with supporters already on the Season Ticket Waiting List eligible for a £5 discount.
Similarly, Claret Members can also join the Season Ticket Waiting List for the reduced price of just £5.
Supporters entering the ballot have the option of selecting up to a maximum of two price points. If you are happy to accept any price band, and thereby increasing the likelihood of being successful, kindly select your preferred area of the Stadium and leave the second option blank.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Burton - Slaven is a gentleman
WHUFC.com
Andy Burton is one of the main reporters on Sky Sports News and has been covering West Ham United for a number of years.
Burton has enjoyed a good working relationship with Slaven Bilic from his time as Croatia boss and his time in charge of Besiktas.
And with the Club's big move into the new Stadium, Burton has no doubts that Bilic can help to get the best out of his players once again and they can enjoy another memorable season....
I really like Slaven and talking to him. I will never forget speaking to him back at Euro 2012 and we did a 12 hour round-trip just to interview him ahead of the Croatia v Ireland game.
We were based in Sopot and had to drive down to their base which was near Warsaw and set off at 7am on the long drive down.
It turned out to be an epic road-trip as the sat nav was taking us down down roads which were not even finished!
When we arrived Slaven gave us a great interview and when I told him the efforts we had made to get there, he was made us feel even more at home. I think to this day he still remembers my effort.
I was at the press conference to preview the Watford game and as always he is a real gentleman and always gives you an answer, no matter what the question is.
I really believe the season starts now for West Ham as they now have eight winnable games against teams who they should probably finish above.
Add to that the fact they are getting back all their big name players like Payet and Lanzini and the key is now keeping them fit and getting them back playing together well.
The start of the season has been disrupted because of the injuries but there is a new feel about the team on Saturday and we should see Simone Zaza make his debut.
Slaven had a big smile on his face when he was asked about the prospect of Zaza playing and I think that shows how much he is looking forward to seeing the Italy international in action.
Any club will want to do better than what they achieved last year and it is a realistic aim for the Hammers to have another good finish with the investment they have made and the big move into the new Stadium.
With all the players coming back into the side I expect West Ham to beat Watford on Saturday and I really hope that Michail Antonio continues his good start to the season because he deserved his call-up to the squad.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Foundation's Katie heads to India
WHUFC.com
The West Ham United Foundation is currently without a key member of the team - Katie Bottom is a coach for the Foundation, working within the Women's and Girls programmes which are delivered across East London and Essex, but at the moment she's in Mumbai, India.
Katie was selected by the Premier League for the second consecutive year to travel across the globe to assist in the delivery of the life-changing Premier Skills programme.
The initiative is delivered by the Premier League in association with the British Council across 25 countries within Asia, Africa and the Americas and aims to develop the skills of underprivileged communities whilst drawing on the expertise of the top clubs in the English game.
This year the programme has also partnered with the Indian Super League and its clubs for the first time. The ISL is the biggest footballing competition in India, and matches often draw attendances of in access of 50,000.
Katie's role as a Coach Educator in Mumbai will see her coach, tutor and mentor existing and aspiring coaching staff, whilst also working directly with the grassroots coaches of Indian Super League clubs to help develop their understanding of the game.
This year's programme is currently in its first phase, but aims to incorporate over 3,000 schools and colleges within phases two and three, which will in turn see West Ham Foundation send further members of its respected coaching set up across the world to deliver on behalf of the Premier League.
We'll be catching up with Katie on her return to the UK, but for now, you can keep an eye on how she is spreading the West Ham message via our Twitter page @WHU_Foundation.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Angelo's World
WHUFC.com
In the first of a brand new feature on whufc.com, we start a regular column with Hammers defender Angelo Ogbonna where we go behind-the-scenes with our Italian central defender.
Ogbonna will share his views on life both inside and outside the camp and will give his honest opinions on all the matters that count.
In the first blog, the 28-year-old reflects on his first call-up by new Italy coach Giampiero Ventura and is excited to see his Italian team-mate Simone Zaza arrive at the Hammers....
Hello everyone,
This has been a busy couple of weeks having joined up with the Italy squad for our friendly against France last week and our first World Cup Qualifier against Israel.
I really enjoyed meeting up with the squad again as it was the first time since the Euro Finals and we now have a new manager.
I already knew him having played under him at Torino and he played me in some big games.
I know it was only a friendly but we were very disappointed to lose the first game against France.
It was the first match for the manager and he didn't have a long time to change the tactics.
I got the chance to speak with Dimitri after the game and I was really happy to see him again.
There has been a lot of change so it was even more important for us to win the first World Cup qualification game when we travelled to Israel.
Thankfully we managed to come away with a 3-1 victory and we hope to build on this result and have a good qualification campaign.
I am now back in England and training hard ahead of our next game against Watford on Saturday.
I obviously know the Watford manager Walter Mazzarri as he managed Napoli and Inter Milan.
Italian coaches are very focused on the match and the tactics so we have to be prepared and I am sure our manager will be fully prepared for this game.
We know it is going to be a tough match as Mazzarri has managed to bring in a lot of international players like Pereyra and Okaka and they already have the likes of Britos and Behrami. They have a very good team.
But we are back at home and it is very important that we get back to winning ways following the defeat against Manchester City.
We have to send out a message that we are back and we are over the last two defeats. Everyone was disappointed about the last two results and we all want to change that.
I am looking forward to teaming up with my Italian team-mate Simone Zaza for the first time this weekend.
I know our fans will get behind him and he will relish that type of support. It will hopefully motivate him to show his best form and we all know the qualities he will bring to the side.
Zaza is one of the best strikers and we have an international forward coming into the squad that can help us challenge with the other teams.
We will also have Dimi back in action and he has just come back from injury. He went to play for the national team and we need to give him some time.
We have had a lot of injuries at the start of the season but now we are happy to see Dimi and Lanzini back in action.
It is very important for us to get another victory at our new home. The atmosphere has been fantastic and the crowd have been amazing.
We have got nearly 60,000 fans which is double the number we had last season and it is unbelievable for us to see that when we go on the pitch. Hopefully we can give them another victory on Saturday.
Enjoy the game.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
FT - West Ham United PL2 2-2 Wolves
WHUFC.com
FT: West Ham United PL2 2-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
FT: And the full time whistle goes. That's heartbreaking for West Ham who did everything to come from behind to lead in that second half. They deserved more, but they've conceded two unstoppable strikes this evening. It's frustrating, but there were plenty of positives to take from the game. It's finished 2-2 here at Dagenham and Redbridge. Over and out, and join us for the Hammers' next PL2 fixture against Norwich City at Carrow Road.
90+3: Goal for Wolves. In the third minute of injury time, the visitors smash home a late sickener. Cracking goal once again to be fair, this time from Morgan Gibbs-White.
90+1: Four minutes added on here.
88: Last two minutes of normal time and the Hammers are doing well to keep Wolves in their own half here. Hang in there you Irons!
85: Chance for Jaanai Gordon! Martinez chips a lovely ball into his path and, striking it hard a low, forces the keeper to make a save at his near post. Great attempt!
84: Dom Quina receives a standing ovation as he is replaced by Noha Sylvestre. Quina has been marvellous this evening.
80: The hosts look really confident out here. A bit of showboating from Marcus and Dom never goes a miss!
79: Bit of a clash between a Wolves defender and Jaanai Gordon, but after a bit of handbags, the referee sorts things out.
75: Bit of a break as a Wolves man receives treatment. West Ham look well on top as they have done all evening, and will be hoping that no late slip ups cost them now.
72: It's almost a given these days that Martinez will put the ball in the back of the net. The Spanish forward just seems to be in the right place at the right time. He'll be delighted to grab his sixth of the campaign already!
68: GOALLLL! The Hammers take the lead and it's Martinez again on the scoresheet! He now has six goals in five games - he's on fire! Wonderful work from Fernandes down the right to beat his man and put in the cross and it was a simple finish for Martinez after the keeper couldn't get to the centre. Come on you Irons!
67: As always, Marcus Browne has looked incredibly dangerous tonight but Dom Quina has been mightily impressive too. He's a slight attacking midfielder but he uses his body well and has caused Wolves all sorts of problems tonight.
64: And after turning into his own net, Wilson is replaced by Niall Ennis.
62: And there's another chance, as Martinez picks it up from 25 yards and hits a speculative one just wide. In the meantime, we've had confirmation that the own goal went in off Wolves' Donovan Wilson.
60: So nearly a second! Half the ground thought that was in, as Marcus Browne collected a Fernandes pass inside the box and struck narrowly wide. West Ham are on top!
57: GOALLLLL! The Hammers draw level as Domingos Quina's free-kick deflects in off a gold shirt. We're not sure who it came off, but Terry Westley's men won't care - it's 1-1!
56: Free-kick for the Hammers on the left in a dangerous position as Wolves' Conor Ronan goes into the book for a foul.
54: Chance for Wolves who fashion an opening on the edge of the box. Dicko fires just wide and although it looked as if Trott turned that round the post, the ref signals a goal kick.
53: Some superb work from Vashon Neufville gives Browne a chance on the volley from ten yards. His effort is closed down, but it feels as if the Hammers are getting closer here...
51: Reece Oxford goes into the book here for a challenge on Nouha Dicko. The forward was racing away with pace and Oxford stopped him in his tracks but goes into the book for his troubles.
48: The Algerian enjoyed a good 45 minute run-out as he returns from fitness. The winger looked sharp throughout that first half. It lloks like Gordon will play down the right as Feghouli did in the first period.
46: Two subs for the Hammers as the game restarts, with Sofiane Feghouli and Sam Westley making way for Jaanai Gordon and Alex Pike.
HT: That's it for the first half. More on that late chance - Fernandes found some space in midfield and clipped a delightful ball towards Martinez's path, and, taking it in his stride well, the Spaniard smashed at the keeper. Unlucky, as are the whole side going in behind. Wolves had had one chance and taken it in wonderful fashion. What can Westley's men do in the second period to get back into this? Join us for the next 45.
45+1: Great chance for the hosts to equalise just before the break! Fernandes releases Martinez and his attempt is well saved.
42: The visitors come forward again and Sylvain Deslandes strikes wide from a tight angle. The Hammers looks a little shell-shocked, as they don't deserve to be behind here.
40: Goal for the visitors, and what a goal it was. Christian Herc, steaming in from 20 yards, crashes in a 20 yard volley which flies past Nathan Trott in goal into the top corner. No chance for the young stopper. Wolves have the lead against the run of play.
38: Chance for the Hammers, as Feghouli swings a cross in from the right, but it's just too high for Marcus Browne. At the other end as Wolves break, Rice makes another superb challenge.
37: With Rice and Reece Oxford at the back, Wolves have failed to look dangerous so far in this first half too. The pair certainly have things under control back there.
36: Great chance for Westley's men to break, and Feghouli slips Martinez in down the right in plenty of space, but the assistant referee decides the ball crossed the touchline.
33: Of course, Feghouli has looked one of the most dangerous Hammers out there this evening but so far, neither side has fashioned a golden chance in front of goal. We have around 12 minutes remaining in this first half.
27: In a rare foray forward, Wolves swing a free-kick into the box but head wide. Still goalless here as we move into the game's second quarter.
25: Fernandes is really starting to get on the ball at the base of that midfield and start things for West Ham. He sprays a lovely pass out wide for Vashon Neufville but the full-back just struggles to take it in his side.
22: Sam Westley loses possession in midfield and Wolves break down the left, but Declan Rice clears things up inside his own six-yard-box with some excellent defending.
20: Another break as Makasi also gets some treatment. The tempo of the game has slowed a little in the last seven or eight minutes, but it's still the Hammers controlling things.
16: Quina takes a whack to the head and receives a bit of treatment, but it OK. Little chance for the sides to catch their breathe.
14: Feghouli gets in behind once again, and stands up a lovely cross to the back post but nobody is there to get on the end of it. Browne's resulting corner is too deep.
12: The Hammers break in numbers with Feghouli, Quina and Martinez outnumbering Wolves' two at the back. Feghouli's pass doesn't find Quina however and the visitors can clear.
10: West Ham really are controlling the game early doors here. It's been reminiscent of the performance here recently against Newcastle United so far.
7: Good early probing from West Ham and Makasi has the chance to shoot as the cross comes in, but opts to give it back to Browne. The hosts are on the front foot.
5: Feghouli is on the free-kick, but his effort hits the wall and canons off for a corner. It's swung in by Marcus Browne but Moses Makasi's shot is well over.
4: Marcus Browne takes one out the air and gets chopped down 25 yards from goal. Chance this...
2: And there's an early chance for Toni Martinez! The Spaniard has five goals in his last four games and gets his head to a cross though it's easy for the keeper to claim.
1: We're underway here! The Hammers get us started and win an early throw-in down the left hand side.
6:55pm: We're just five minutes from kick-off now and we've got an exciting clash in store with summer signings Sofiane Feghouli and Edimilson Fernandes both in action. Stay up-to-date with all the action live right here!
6:45pm: The lads have returned to the dressing room for one final chat with manager Terry Westley. In terms of league form, both sides have won two of their three games so far this campaign but the Hammers are ahead of tonight's visitors in the league table on goal difference.
6:30pm: If you haven't been keeping track of the Hammers' fixtures so far this term, why not?! But, last time out, they were beaten 4-2 in the newly-formatted Checkatrade Trophy, albeit by a strong League One Coventry City outfit. They went down 2-0 at Swansea City in the game before that, but were victorious in their two PL2 openers, including a superb 3-1 victory here against Newcastle United.
6:15pm: So, exciting news for the Hammers in that Algerian international Sofiane Feghouli starts for the youngsters, alongisde Fernandes and defender - and tonight's captain - Reece Oxford. Wolves forward Nouha Dicko is a known threat, so it's set to be a cracker this evening. Entry is free for Hammers season ticket holders too, and it's not too late to get down to Dagenham and Redbridge!
PL2: Trott, Westley (Pike 46), Rice, Oxford, Neufville, Makasi, Fernandes, Feghouli (Gordon 46), Browne, Quina (Sylvestre 84), Martinez.
Subs not used: Matrevics, Diangana.
Goals: Wilson (OG) 57, Martinez 68
Bookings: Oxford 51
Wolverhampton Wanderers: Burgoyne, Simpson, Deslandes, Herc, Hayden, Johnson (Leak 71), Gibbs-White, Ronan, Dicko (McKenna 76), Enobakhare, Wilson (Ennis 64).
Subs not used: Odoffin, Finnie.
Goals: Herc 40, Gibbs-White 90+3
Bookings: Ronan 56
Attendance: 566
6pm: Good evening! The young Hammers are back at Dagenham & Redbridge's Chigwell Construction Stadium tonight for their PL2 clash against Wolves. In their home meeting with the Midlands side last season, West Ham were 4-0 winners, so will be hoping for a repeat performance this time around. Edimilson Fernandes plays his first match in Claret and Blue tonight too, and there are one or two other exciting first team names also involved... All will be revealed shortly with the team news!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Changes afoot, say stadium operators
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 9th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
The company charged with overseeing operations at the Olympic Stadium have promised a series of changes ahead of tomorrow's Premier League clash with Watford. Speaking exclusively to KUMB.com, London Stadium 185 - a subsidiary of Vinci - promised a revision of their stewarding policy that has been heavily criticised by West Ham fans in recent weeks. And although he refrained from giving specific details, Michael Temple - the Head of Commercial at the OS - confirmed that feedback from supporters and stewards had been taken on board. "There are lots of positive changes in place for tomorrow's game," he told KUMB.com.
Temple's feedback comes in the wake of yet more concerning reports from stewards at the OS, with one telling KUMB.com that they fear a tragedy could occur if the stadium operators fail to take immediate action. "If it has not happened already, I predict a serious security factor and a real tragedy will happen," said the steward, who is one of many who moved with the club from Upton Park to Stratford. "With the blatant absence of Police at the ground and the lack of balls from these stewards, West Ham United will hit the papers for the wrong reasons. Maybe even a death or very serious injury.
"The new wave of stewards just don't know what they are doing. God forbid when Tottenham or Arsenal etc come to the ground."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SAT, 10 SEPT 2016PREMIER LEAGUE
15:00
Venue: London Stadium
West Ham United v Watford
BBC.co.uk
TEAM NEWS
West Ham playmaker Dimitri Payet is expected to start for the the first time this season after recovering from a thigh problem. New signing Simone Zaza is likely to play, while Manuel Lanzini, Sofiane Feghouli and Havard Nordtveit are fit. Watford playmaker Roberto Pereyra could make his first start, having scored as a substitute on his debut. Recent recruits Adrian Mariappa and Kenedy may feature, while Craig Cathcart (groin) is a doubt.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Jonathan Pearce: "Both clubs have concerns. It'll take time for West Ham to settle at their new stadium. Moving Slaven Bilic's dugout closer to the touchline would help - he is so isolated from his players. "He also needs to find a settled side, having used five formations in all competitions so far. "Watford have turned over 50 transfers in 13 months - too many. They look muddled. Two league wins in 15 is also deeply concerning. "Of the new boys, West Ham's Zaza didn't impress at Juventus, unlike Watford's Okaka at Anderlecht. He once scored a winner for Fulham against West Ham. Could he inspire another victory?"
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic on Watford: "Just glance at their roster and you see 18 players who are very familiar across the world. They have quality, pace, energy and stamina. "Against Chelsea and Arsenal they were unlucky. They've had very tough schedule but they've done really well."
Watford head coach Walter Mazzarri: "I like to work with a group that I chose myself, and I'm very happy with this one because now we have the complete squad.
"Perhaps we are still delayed one or two weeks of preparation, but now I know we are very competitive and hopefully starting from tomorrow we will start to do a great competition."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Watford only have one point so far, although it should be factored in that they have played Chelsea and Arsenal in two of their three games. I don't see them getting anything at the London Stadium either, though, and it looks like being a tough season for the Hornets.
Prediction: 2-0
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have won 11 of the last 13 home league meetings with Watford, with their only defeat in that period coming in the Premier League in February 2007.
Watford's 1-0 win that day is their only clean sheet in 17 league visits to West Ham.
West Ham United
The Hammers have lost four of their last six Premier League games, as many as in the previous 32 fixtures combined (W14, D14, L4).
They have scored in 16 successive league matches, the longest current such run in the division.
Michail Antonio has scored a league-high eight headed goals since the start of last season.
Watford
The Hornets have only earned four wins and 17 points from 23 matches since Boxing Day.
Walter Mazzarri's side have dropped five points from leading positions so far this season, more than any other Premier League club.
They have only kept one clean sheet in 14 league games.
Watford had twice as many shots on target at home to Arsenal (6) last time out as they had in their previous two Premier League games this season combined.
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-0 Probability of draw: 24%
Probability of home win: 57% Probability of away win: 19%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football matches.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Happy birthday, DG
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 9th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United co-owner David Gold is celebrating his 80th birthday today. And Gold, who co-purchased the club in conjunction with long-term business partner David Sullivan in 2012 celebrated his big day with a firsdt ever hole-in-one at his local golf course! "I have been playing golf for nearly 25 years but like any golfer will tell you, there is no greater feeling than hitting a hole-in-one," the octogenarian told whufc.com. "It was the perfect present ahead of my 80th birthday on Friday and I would like to thank all the fans for their continued support. "I feel good at the moment and it is an amazing feeling to be Joint-Chairman of my boyhood club. "When you turn 80 you can look back and remember a lot of things and I have certainly experienced the highs and lows. "But I am now at the Club that I supported as a young boy and grew up just over the road to the Boleyn Ground. "I will celebrate my birthday having dinner with my family and preparing for the big game on Saturday. The ideal present would be if we could come away with all three points!"
Everyone at KUMB.com would like to wish DG a very happy birthday.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Can you help little Jack?
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 9th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
A 12-year-old West Ham fan battling cancer is hoping to be able to undergo a potentially life-saving trip to the US.
Jack Howard was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 and has been receiving treatment from the NHS ever since. But despite undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, the schoolboy was recently told that there is nothing else that can be done for him in the UK.
As a result, Jack's only hope of living a full and healthy life is by undergoing pioneering treatment in the United States - which is why friends of the family have set up a donation page at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/jack-howard.
Jack's father Nick - whoi had been told he'll need to raise in the region of £250,000 to fund the treatment - told Kent Online: "The NHS has done absolutely everything they can for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments.
"Now they are out of options.
"I've never asked for anything in my life and we don't know how much it will cost. But if we have to, we will sell our house to get treatment."
And Jack's mother, Zoe, added: "I am heartbroken to see my beautiful boy go through such suffering and pain. All Jack wants is to have a normal life like any other child.
"We want to be ready to go [to the US] straight away. There is no time to lose as every day, of every week counts against us."
If you'd like to help give Jack a chance of beating the disease, you may donate by visiting his Crowdfunder page.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fitter, happier
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 9th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven BIlic will have all but four of his first team squad available for this weekend's clash with Watford.
The Hornets become the second team to visit the Olympic Stadium foir a Premier League fixture this weekend when they make the short trip from Hertfordshire to Stratford.
And Walter Mazzarri's boys are likely to have their work cut out with Slaven Bilic able to include the likes of Sofiane Feghouli, Alvaro Arbeloa and Dimitri Payet for the first time this season.
Still sidelined however are strikers Diafra Sakho, Andy Carroll and Andre Ayew, whilst left back Aaron Cresswell is continuing his rehabilitation from the injury sustained during pre-season.
"Aaron is doing well with his rehabilitation," Stijn Vandenbroucke told whufc.com. "He has started running and works two times a day with physiotherapist Dom Rogan. He will return to team training in October.
"Andre is also working hard, he is extremely motivated to play football as soon as possible. We have made great progress and he will get back stronger but the reality is that it will take time.
"With Andy and Diafra, both are making progress but it is too early to put a time frame on their return to first-team action. I will have a better view on their return dates next week."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM V WATFORD MATCH PREVIEW
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 9 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 6:39PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @deportivohammer
Now that the international football is finished we can move onto the more important Premier League and the visit of Watford to the London Stadium. I'm not a fan of international football but I did hope Antonio would get his first cap at the weekend. Nevermind, hopefully in the next game.
Watford performed way above expectations last year, first by not being involved in a relegation dog fight but also by finishing in a respected mid table position. But since then they managed to lose their manager Quique Sanchez and replace him with Walter Mazzarri. Like us Watford have had a difficult start to the season playing Chelsea and Arsenal losing both and getting an opening day draw away to Southampton.
Last year the goals from Ighalo and Deeney helped keep them away from the bottom of the table my worry for them is if these two players are not playing well they could struggle to score goals. They will no longer be a surprise package to other teams.
Having gained one win so far this season, I fully hope we add to that tomorrow afternoon. Losing to Chelsea was hard to take due to the lateness of their winning goal. At Manchester City we can have no complaints, with us only turning up to play in the 2nd half. While our win against Bournemouth was scrappy to say the least, I felt we deserved the 3 points on the day.
For those looking at putting a bet on West Ham to register another 3 points, or any other game this weekend, you can view all English Premier League betting here: http://sports.williamhill.com/bet/en-gb/betting/t/295/English-Premier-League.html
West Ham United welcome back a host of attacking options that have been missing so far this season. With the welcome addition of Simone Zaza now being available, Lanzini, Feghouli (although having played for the Under 23s today he is unlikely to be used), and of course Dimitri Payet all deemed fit and ready to go.
Team news for the Hammers is that Cresswell, Carroll, Ayew and Sakho are all still out. Deadline day signing Arbeloa still not up to speed, Harvard Nordtveit should be available to Slaven.
Watford have doubts about Cathcart and Dje Djedje. But Kenedy on loan from Chelsea could make his debut for the club.
Predicted Line Ups :
West Ham United : Adrian, Byram, Masaku, Reid, Collins, Noble, Kouyate, Antonio, Lanzini, Payet, Zaza.
Watford : Gomes, Prodl, Kaboul, Kabasele, Janmaat, Holebas, Behrami, Pereyra, Capoue, Deeney, Ighalo
I'm going to be as always, positive in this game and predict we run out 3-1 winners with Zaza getting off the mark straight away with at least one of the goals. Payet will be at his best and a lot of the negativity surrounding the club will be lifted.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Walter Mazzarri wary of Dimitri Payet and Simone Zaza's quality for West Ham
By Allan Valente
Last Updated: 09/09/16 3:55pm
SSN
Walter Mazzarri says he understands the threat of Dimitri Payet and new signing Simone Zaza ahead of Watford's trip to face West Ham on Saturday. The Italian, who took over as head coach at Vicarage Road in the summer, is only too aware of the qualities of his compatriot Zaza, who earned a move to Juventus after an impressive spell at Sassuolo, with Payet also expected to start this weekend. Zaza joined the Hammers on loan in August, with a view to a permanent move, after he appeared for Italy at Euro 2016 and Mazzarri says he and Payet are just two of a number of dangerous players they can expect to encounter at London Stadium. "Zaza, we know him very well. He's a very, very good player," Mazzarri said in his pre-match news conference on Friday. "We would have preferred if he would have arrived later at West Ham. But we know Zaza, we know West Ham. "They have extremely good players. Another one is Payet. But we are very positive on what we're doing. We are very happy with our job. Yes, they haven't got only Zaza. They have very good players, West Ham."
Mazzarri says there are still a few tests to run on some players to assess their fitness after they arrived back from international duty during the week, including new £7m signing Daryl Janmaat. "It's not easy because we need to verify the condition of the players that came back on Wednesday," he said. "One of them is Janmaat another is [Valon] Behrami, but all of them mainly. Yesterday [we ran some tests], but also today I'm going to do the last test to verify the condition of the players."
Mazzarri was also quizzed on the fitness of new signing Roberto Pereyra, who made his debut against Arsenal before the international break, and the Watford head coach says the player is aware of what is required from him at his new club. "I wanted all the new players that arrived from the international break to be here with us, as Pereyra did," Mazzarri said. "Because I'm sure that now Pereyra understands what I want from him, and how to perform on the pitch."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Watford preview: Dimitri Payet and Simone Zaza set to start
Last Updated: 09/09/16 12:26pm
SSN
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is set to start fit-again Dimitri Payet and new signing Simone Zaza against Watford on Saturday. France star Payet has made just one substitute appearance for the Hammers this season due to a thigh niggle but is now fully fit. Italy striker Zaza is expected to feature in the starting line-up alongside Payet, having joined West Ham on a season-long loan from Juventus. Watford have just one point from three league games this season and could hand a debut to Brazilian forward Kenedy as they search for a first win.
Team news
Manuel Lanzini, Sofiane Feghouli and Havard Nordtveit have all recovered from injuries and could feature for West Ham. Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew, Aaron Cresswell and Diafra Sakho are still out and new arrival Alvaro Arbeloa is not match fit. Watford will check on defender Craig Cathcart, who has been troubled by a groin strain ahead of Saturday's clash. Defender Brice Dje Djedje (foot problem) is also doubtful, while Argentina midfielder Roberto Pereyra could make his first start, having scored when coming off the bench in the home defeat by Arsenal. Adrian Mariappa could feature, having rejoined the Hornets after being released by Crystal Palace earlier this summer.
Match stats
West Ham have won 11 of their last 13 home league meetings with Watford (D1 L1), though that one defeat came in the Premier League in February 2007 (0-1).
That 1-0 win for Watford is the Hornets' only clean sheet in 17 league visits away to West Ham. The home side won both games by a two-goal margin last season in this fixture (West Ham 3-1, Watford 2-0), while the visiting side had a player sent off each time. Mark Noble scored twice in West Ham's 3-1 win over the Hornets in April, both times from the penalty spot. Odion Ighalo scored both of Watford's goals in their 2-0 win over West Ham last October but he has scored twice in 21 Premier League games in 2016. Bilic has lost four of his last six Premier League games in charge of West Ham United, as many as he had lost in the previous 26 combined. Watford have used 21 different players in three matches so far this season, with 17 different nationalities represented. Michail Antonio has scored a league-high eight headed goals since the start of last season. Indeed, no English midfielder has scored more Premier League goals than Antonio since August 2015 (10 - level with Dele Alli). Walter Mazzarri's side have dropped five points from leading positions so far this season, more than any other Premier League club has.
Merson's prediction
There should be goals in this game. Both teams will fancy three points, but home advantage should make the difference for the Hammers. They need to get the win in my opinion too because they haven't started the season brilliantly and a defeat here would point at a bottom-half finish.
PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1 (Most popular Super 6 prediction: 2-0)
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham vs Watford: Possible team line-ups, injury updates and more
12:02, 9 SEP 2016 UPDATED 14:49, 9 SEP 2016
BY MIRROR FOOTBALL
Dimitri Payet could return for the Hammers while Craig Cathcart and Bruce Dje Djedje are doubts for the Hornets
The Mirror
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is set to include fit-again Dimitri Payet and new signing Simone Zaza into the starting line-up against Watford. France star Payet has made just one substitute appearance for the Hammers this season due to a thigh niggle but is now fully fit, and he should be joined in the team by Italy striker Zaza. Zaza joined on a season-long loan from Juventus for a €5million loan fee with a €20million obligation to buy should he make a certain number of Premier League appearances. Manuel Lanzini, Sofiane Feghouli and Havard Nordtveit are also back from injuries but Andy Carroll, Andre Ayew, Aaron Cresswell and Diafra Sakho are still out and deadline-day arrival Alvaro Arbeloa is not match fit.
Watford will check on defender Craig Cathcart, who has been troubled by a groin strain. Defender Brice Dje Djedje is also doubtful with a foot problem, while Argentina midfielder Roberto Pereyra could make his first start, having scored when coming off the bench in the home defeat by Arsenal before the international break. Premier League team news: Injury updates, possible line-ups and more ahead of latest fixtures Adrian Mariappa has rejoined the Hornets after being released by Crystal Palace earlier this summer, and 20-year-old Brazilian midfielder Kenedy could be included after signing on a season loan from Chelsea.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham and Sheffield United fans to settle an old score 10 years on from Tevez affair
HITC
Damien Lucas
It is a decade since the Carlos Tevez affair which spawned one of English football's more recent rivalries between West Ham United and Sheffield United.
The memory of Hammers favourite Tevez and the court cases that saw West Ham ordered to pay out £35million in compensation to Sheffield United and an additional £5.5m in Premier League fines remains as inflammatory as ever 10 years on. Tevez's arrival with Javier Mascherano at West Ham on transfer deadline day in August 2006 sowed the seeds of what has become a mutual loathing. Third-party agreements concerning the players came to light and the independent Premier League commission's decision to impose what remains a world record fine rather than a points deduction "invited anarchy" according to then Blades chairman Kevin McCabe. Anyone reading this most likely already story knows the history.
On the final day of the season 2006-2007 season West Ham completed the great escape when they went to Old Trafford to face Manchester United and got the win they needed with Tevez scoring the only goal of the game. Meanwhile over at Bramall Lane Neil Warnock's side needed only a draw to relegate their opponents Wigan Athletic but lost 2-1 and were themselves relegated as a result. United lost an initial appeal against their relegation but a year later an independent FA tribunal found in their favour. The chair of the tribunal, Lord Griffiths, judged: "We have no doubt that West Ham would have secured at least three fewer points over the 2006-07 season if Carlos Tevez had not been playing for the club."
Resentment has festered between the clubs and their fans ever since with West Ham struggling financially and the annual instalments to Sheffield United not helping. A takeover by businessmen David Sullivan and Gold has since helped ease the club's problems on and off the pitch. The Blades, though, have never really recovered and currently languish in League One with a trip to AFC Wimbledon on the horizon this weekend. The Hammers meanwhile are genuine challengers for the Champions League places nowadays and have just taken up residency in their shiny new 60,000 seater West Ham-ified Olympic Stadium - which is being called London Stadium.
On Saturday night two of the clubs' most famous fans will get the chance to settle an old score when Gennady Golovkin and Kell Brook go head to head at the O2 arena. It is one of the biggest boxing bouts in many years and has captured the imagination of a global audience. But with legendary pound-for-pound world champ Golovkin having declared himself a West Ham fan last season when taking in a trip to Upton Park before it closed and Brook a died-in-the-wool Blades supporter it is also something of a grudge match. While the more patriotic fans among West Ham's support would usually be inclined to get behind Englishman Brook, few will turn their back on one of their own and will undoubtedly be rooting for Kazakhstani Golovkin.
Indeed Slaven Bilic, West Ham's enigmatic manager, even took time out of his press conference ahead of Saturday's clash with Watford to wish Golovkin luck.
"I remember the game against Manchester City and he came and we chatted for a few minutes," Bilic told the press as reported by the likes of Sky Sports. "He declared himself as a big Hammer so of course we wish him luck." Temporary bragging rights for fans are on offer to the victor but the ill-feeling promises to last a lifetime.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE PSG tried to sign Dimitri Payet in the summer but West Ham held firm to keep their star man
Hammers slapped huge price tag on French midfielder and built a strong squad despite transfer frustrations
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE, THEWESTHAMWAY.CO.UK 9th September 2016, 10:24 am
THE transfer window finally slammed shut last week and I can now breathe a sigh of relief. Not only was it hard work at thewesthamway.co.uk to bring exclusive transfer news, but there was also the big fear that someone would try to sign Dimitri Payet from West Ham. All summer our star man was linked with a move away from the club with the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain all prepared to try to take our magician away from us.
PSG were in fact the only club who made an official enquiry and David Sullivan demanded £100m to take the French international to the French capital. As you would expect PSG immediately withdrew their interest saying the fee was way too large for a player who will be 30 this year. This stance though meant that no other club came in for him and we kept the player much to everyone's delight. This was our biggest moment of the window.
On the whole, this has been a successful window for the club. We have strengthened in all areas and now have very good squad depth. I would say this is our greatest ever squad and yet some West Ham fans are still unhappy. At the start of the window we were promised a "Marquee, £20m+ top class forward" according to our chairman – and some fans feel this wasn't met and was a false promise. But I know this was not the case and Mr Sullivan worked flat out on a number of deals that couldn't materialise due to factors beyond our his control. We missed out on Alexandre Lacazette, Michy Batshuayi and Carlos Bacca, but we have to move on and concentrate on all the players that we have signed. We brought in an Italian International forward who has also played for one of best teams in the world in the shape of Simone Zaza from Juventus. This is a huge signing for the club because he has all the credentials to be a top forward and thankfully Mark Noble will not allow him to take the penalties. He has been on form in training and looks like he is pushing for a start, and I believe he will against Watford. We must not forget we also spent £20m on Andre Ayew who was signed to play up top when he is not injured. If you take into account that we have Zaza, Ayew, Andy Carroll, Jonathan Calleri, Ashley Fletcher, Toni Martinez and Diafro Sakho who could play in our usual lone forward position, those are impressive options. Add to that the arrival of Sofiane Feghouli, Alvaro Arbeloa and more, there is a real depth to the group of players at the club now. I believe the window has been a success and when we have a fully fit squad there is going to be a real selection headache for Slaven Bilic – but a problem that we have waited a long time to have.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic keeping Michail Antonio on the right path after surprise England call-up
Michail Antonio was named in the Sam Allardyce's first England squad
The West Ham winger didn't play but Irons boss Slaven Bilic is concerned about the impact it could have on the player's lifestyle and training
Bilic is concerned Antonio could overdo it and warned against that path
By ANDY SIMS, PRESS ASSOCIATION
PUBLISHED: 09:51, 9 September 2016 | UPDATED: 09:51, 9 September 2016
Slaven Bilic has held talks with Michail Antonio to ensure the England new boy sticks to what he does best. West Ham winger Antonio was the surprise inclusion in Sam Allardyce's first England squad for last week's opening World Cup qualifier in Slovakia. Although he did not get on the pitch, Hammers boss Bilic is concerned that an international call-up can have a detrimental effect on a player's lifestyle and training regime. So Bilic has taken the 26-year-old former Nottingham Forest and Reading man to one side and told him not to change the things that got him England recognition in the first place. 'We've had a few talks. On Wednesday I spoke with him a bit,' revealed Bilic. 'Make no mistake, he was confident before, he's a very confident lad. 'All he has to do now is not to change - not to change the way he plays, the way he trains, everything, and we have to help him with that. 'I think it will give him more motivation and more confidence. But the key for him, and I told him yesterday, is not to forget which way of training and playing gave him the opportunity to be called into the England squad. 'You have examples of players, they get it as a new motivation to do better. They think "if I do more sit-ups, if I concentrate more, if I eat better, I can become a regular". 'For some reason there are players who have overdone it. They change the way they are behaving, they change the way they are playing and they change the way they are training.
'They are basically forgetting that because of that particular way of living they got their chance. I'm not talking about Michail now, of course, but that's why the talk is necessary. You talk to those players. 'Sometimes the player doesn't change but their environment changes or their friends change. It is very dangerous for some of the players but that's why I spoke to him and that's why we going to keep having talks all the time. 'We spoke yesterday and now, knowing him, he's going to put the pedal down and try to become (an England) regular. He's going to do everything.' Antonio will line up for the Hammers against Watford on Saturday with Bilic looking for a second win of the season.
Walter Mazzarri's side have just a point to their name so far, from an opening-day draw at Southampton, but Bilic is still expecting a tough encounter. They are a good team, last year they did really good,' he added. 'Just glance at their roster and you see 18 players who are very familiar across the world. They have quality, pace, energy and stamina. 'I watched their three games during the international break. Against Chelsea and Arsenal they were unlucky. They've had very tough schedule but they've done really well.' Fit-again Dimitri Payet is set to start for the Hammers, alongside new signing Simone Zaza.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, September 10
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
