Saturday, August 26

Daily WHUFC News - 26th August 2017

Newcastle United v West Ham United: All you need to know
WHUFC.com

West Ham United will be eager to get points on the board this weekend as they face Newcastle United ahead of the international break. Neither the Magpies or the Hammers are yet to claim a league win this campaign but both will believe points are obtainable in this fixture.

Check out the information below to get all the latest team news, the player to watch and travel information.

Where and when?

Newcastle United v West Ham United will be played at St James' Park on Saturday 26 August at 3:00pm BST. The address for the stadium is: Barrack Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST.

How to follow

You can follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com, with updates also available on Twitter throughout the afternoon. You can also follow the match in different ways on our official Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat channels! Due to being a Saturday 3pm kick-off the match is not available for viewing in the UK. For worldwide broadcast schedules, click here. Audio coverage will also be provided by BBC Radio London Sport.

Team news

Cheikhou Kouyate returned to action against Cheltenham Town on Wednesday and West Ham United are also set to welcome back Manuel Lanzini and Andy Carroll against Newcastle. Winston Reid will not take part however having been stretchered off during the pre-game warm-up at Southampton. Slaven Bilic hopes to have the defender back for the home match with Huddersfield Town after the international break. Marko Arnautovic will miss out due to suspension.

Newcastle are set to be without Florian Lejeune and Paul Dummett, with the defenders absent due to injury. Newcastle will definitely be without Jonjo Shelvey as he serves the final game of a three-match suspension.

Match officials

Referee: Neil Swarbrick
Assistant Referees: Darren Cann and Scott Ledger
Fourth Official: Michael Jones

Meet the opposition

Newcastle have returned to the Premier League after one season in the Championship and have one of Europe's most impressive coaches in Rafa Benitez at the helm.

The Magpies, like the Hammers, are yet to claim a Premier League win this season but fans will be optimistic that they can once again assert themselves a top division club.

Last season's Championship winners have won four top flight titles in their history, as well as six FA Cups.

In such a tricky Premier League however consistent performances and avoiding a relegation battle will be at the forefront of Benitez's mind this season.

Player to watch

A return to action could come on a return to his former side for Andy Carroll and West Ham United supporters will be delighted to see the No9 back in action.

A powerful attacker with a lethal finish with both his left-foot and head, Carroll brings a whole new dimension to the Hammers' front-line and could prove to be the difference maker on Saturday.

The potential for a two-man partnership between Carroll and Chicharito will also have fans excited about West Ham's goal-threat at St James' Park.

Head-to-head

With Newcastle in the Championship last season West Ham United's last clash with the Magpies came in January 2016, where a Steve McClaren side bested the Irons despite a Nikica Jelavic finish.

The two sides have swapped victories with the home team winning in the last four matches between West Ham and Newcastle.

Prior to that Newcastle have proved to be a tricky opponent for the Irons in recent seasons but Slaven Bilic will be optimistic of a positive result this weekend.

Last five meetings

Newcastle 2-1 West Ham United, Premier League, 16 January 2016
West Ham United 2-0 Newcastle, Premier League, 14 September 2015
Newcastle 2-0 West Ham United, Premier League, 24 May 2015
West Ham United 1-0 Newcastle, Premier League, 29 November 2014
West Ham United 1-3 Newcastle, Premier League, 18 January 2014

Did you know?

Plenty of famous names have represented both West Ham United and Newcastle during the Premier League era:
Andy Carroll - Started his career at Newcastle and then moved to West Ham from Liverpool in 2012.
Kevin Nolan - moved to Newcastle in 2009 but left in 2011 to join West Ham, remaining with the side until 2015.
Scott Parker - spent two years at Newcastle 2005-2007 before leaving for West Ham United, staying until 2011.
Stuart Pearce - was with Newcastle from 1997-1999 before moving to West Ham United from 1999-2001.
Demba Ba - joined West Ham United in 2011 before leaving for Newcastle the same year, staying until 2014.
Craig Bellamy - Newcastle player from 2001-2005, and represented West Ham 2007-2009.

Noberto Solano - spent two spells with Newcastle before joining West Ham United for the 2006/07 campaign.
Rob Lee - was with Newcastle for a decade, until 2002, and was with West Ham for the 2003/04 season.
Kieron Dyer - was at Newcastle for most of his career, from 1999-2007, and then spent four years with the Hammers.
Shaka Hislop - with Newcastle 1995-1998 before joining West Ham United.
Lee Bowyer - spent three years with Newcastle and moved to West Ham in 2006.
Paul Kitson - represented Newcastle 1994-1997 and joined West Ham United that year until 2002.
Wayne Quinn - played for Newcastle 2001-2004, but spent the 2003/04 season on loan with West Ham United.
Les Ferdinand - played for Newcastle 1995-1997 and West Ham United in 2003.

How to get there

By car: Follow the M11 and merge onto the A1(M). Follow this road for the majority of your journey before taking the A184 exit towards Gateshead/Newcastle.

Keep right onto A189 and follow the road before turning right onto Strawberry Place.

By train: Newcastle Central Railway Station is half a mile from St James' Park and takes about 10-15 minutes to walk.

By Air: Newcastle Airport is seven miles from the city centre and has its own Metro station, which can take supporters into the heart of the city and to the Stadium.

Ticket information
All West Ham United away tickets have sold out for this fixture.

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Chicharito: We have the belief and confidence to win at St James' Park
WHUFC.com

Chicharito believes West Ham United's second-half performance at Southampton and midweek win at Cheltenham Town will give them the confidence to win at Newcastle United on Saturday. The striker led from the front at St Mary's Stadium, scoring both goals as the ten-man Hammers came from two down to level, only to concede from a last-gasp penalty. Then, on Wednesday, he helped his side defeat their League Two opponents 2-0 to reach the Carabao Cup third round, boosting belief ahead of this weekend's trip to St James' Park. "It's the best way to keep working and keep improving when have good results and positive things," said the Mexico star, who has scored three goals in nine career appearances against the Magpies. "Obviously, the last two weeks weren't in the way we wanted to be, as we had two big losses, but we won in the cup in midweek and that can build up the team, the spirit and the confidence to go to Newcastle and try to make a better performance. "Hopefully we can show an improvement and have the victory, as that's what we want. It will be positive to go into the international break on the back of a win, then come back to play an important game on the Monday night against Huddersfield."

He may have been a Hammer for just a month, but the No17's positive attitude on and off the pitch have already made him a favourite among the Claret and Blue Army, who he celebrated wildly with after equalising at Southampton last weekend. "You can see I was running the other way, then I remembered our fans were in the other corner, so I tried to go close to them to celebrate. "It was a very good goal, not only because I scored but because we had come from two goals down to draw the game. "Unfortunately, they got a penalty in the last minute and we lost, but we showed we had the spirit to come back in the second half, even if the sensation in the end was not the best."

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Slaven Bilic column: Our supporters deserve three points at Newcastle
WHUFC.com

The West Ham United manager shares his thoughts exclusively in his weekly column for whufc.com ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Newcastle United…

We were all pleased to get our first win of the season on Wednesday night. It doesn't matter that it was in the Carabao Cup, or that the opposition were Cheltenham Town from League Two. All that mattered was that we won, because after two defeats we needed a boost. I thought we played well in the second half at Southampton last Saturday, but of course we had given ourselves a lot to do after going down to ten men and then conceding two goals. The spirit we showed to get back to 2-2, with two brilliant goals from Chicharito, was good. But we were hit right at the end by their third goal. It was difficult to take. So, it was very important that we won at Cheltenham, and that's what we did. I was pleased with how we approached the game, with our two goals and with the clean sheet. Like I said, it doesn't matter who the opposition were. We experienced that feeling of winning and that can only be good. We hope to have the same feeling at Newcastle United on Saturday. This will be our fourth away match in a row and I must say thank you to the supporters who have travelled all over the country already, and it is still August! We have been north to Manchester, south to Southampton, west to Cheltenham and now we go north again to Newcastle, and our sections in the stands have always been full. It may sound like a cliché or whatever, but the singing and the support do make a difference. They give the players that little extra motivation to go out there and do well.

Last time we went to Newcastle, two seasons ago, we did not produce a performance that our supporters deserved, especially in the first half. At the time, we were doing really well and were fifth in the Premier League, while Newcastle were down in the relegation zone, but those positions didn't matter when we kicked-off. Newcastle scored two early goals and we really struggled, with Jonjo Shelvey playing brilliant on his debut. We got one back through Jela [Nikica Jelavic] and played much better in the second half, but we couldn't turn it around. Shelvey will be suspended on Saturday, but we still need to start better than we did in that game if we want to get our first Premier League win. Newcastle is a massive club like West Ham and, like us, they and their supporters are desperate for some success after a long time without a trophy. I played at St James' Park for West Ham and for Everton and I lost both times. I don't want that record to continue on Saturday and, if we can show the same commitment and quality we showed in the second half at Southampton and in our win at Cheltenham, I am confident it won't.

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Rice: I still haven't made it to where I want to be
WHUFC.com

One of the reasons Declan Rice has looked so calm and assured on his arrival in the West Ham United first team is his maturity. Rice does not turn 19 until January, but his character and attitude, not to mention his towering stature and athletic physique, bely his tender years. As such, it is no surprise that the teenager refuses to let the fuss over his encouraging opening three Hammers appearances go to his head. As he prepares to return to St James' Park, where he captained the U23s to promotion from Premier League 2 Division 2 in May, the young Irishman talked about keeping his feet on the ground, playing in midfield and the challenges of Premier League football…

Declan, it's been quite a couple of months for you, breaking into the first team, starting all three matches so far this season and earning praise for your performances?

"It's nice to see there is a lot of positive talk about me, as I've been working really, really hard on the training pitch and all the lads have really helped me. These last three games have probably been the best three games of my life, really, being around the first team and the fans and everything about it has been unbelievable."

Presumably the elation of playing in the Premier League been tainted somewhat by the fact we lost both matches?

"It's difficult to take when you lose because there are fans going there and you're playing for them and for the three points. We should have got something from Southampton, there were positives to take from both games and Wednesday night [when we won at Cheltenham Town in the Carabao Cup] was a real confidence boost."

You enjoyed great success at Academy level as a centre-half, winning the Premier League 2 play-off at Newcastle United in May, but now you are playing as a deep-lying midfielder, so how has that been?

"I know the role, as I used to play there when I was playing for Chelsea. It stemmed from pre-season, when the manager wanted me to play there, and I'm not one to complain so I've got on with it and grown into that position. Whether he wants me to play at centre-half or in midfield, I'm ready to play.

"I enjoy playing in midfield! You get a bit more freedom around the pitch, you can control the game and you're more the orchestrator, where you get to play the ball around, whereas at centre-back you are stuck in one position. I don't mind, wherever I play."

What is the biggest difference you have found stepping up from U23 football to the Premier League?

"The biggest thing I've found out is you need to be really, really fit. To play in the Premier League is a step above from everything else. You need to be the fittest you've ever been and that includes everything; your diet, training hard to get your fitness, resting and recovering in between matches. That's the biggest thing I've noticed."

Presumably, you need to be switched on and make less mistakes, too?

"I definitely agree with that, as if you switch off for one second or turn your head away from the game, the ball can be in the back of your net, so it's important that you switch on for the whole 90 minutes, then after the game you can relax."

So many young players have made a big impact in the Premier League, but only for a short period, so what can you do to avoid being a flash in the pan?

"It's just my mentality, really, because nothing's changed since I joined the squad in pre-season. My mentality hasn't changed and I'm never going to change as a person or anything like that because, in my eyes, I still haven't made it to where I want to be.

"I've only played three games and there are a lot of players who have played three games and not had a career, so it's only the start. I've just got to keep improving and showing the manager what I can do and making him play me."

Your form has also led to international recognition and you are in line to make your Republic of Ireland U21 debut in Azerbaijan next month, which is exciting!

"It's nice to get the call-up to go away with the U21s and I can't wait to meet up with the lads. I trained with the senior squad and I know Martin O'Neill is keeping an eye on my progress, so hopefully I can play well and get myself into his squad."

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Apply to join the Supporter Advisory Board
WHUFC.com

West Ham United is delighted to announce that new applications have now officially opened for the 2017/18 Supporter Advisory Board (SAB).

The SAB is the primary link between supporters and the West Ham United Board, ensuring that the voice of the fans is heard at the highest level on the subjects that matter most.

A close relationship between the Club and supporters is of crucial importance to the Board, and the SAB format will continue to grow and develop in order to ensure that all sections of our diverse fanbase are represented.

Vice-Chairman Karren Brady says: "The West Ham United Supporter Advisory Board has evolved into a hugely positive and integral element of our football club since its inception.

"The direct and regular contact between the board and the fans has been proven to be a successful formula and we look forward to developing it even further this year.

"I would like to sincerely thank every member of the 2016/17 SAB for their dedication, support and commitment on behalf of their fellow West Ham United supporters last season.

"Their involvement played a crucial role in helping us to make great progress and improvements during our inaugural campaign at London Stadium, and had given us a fantastic platform to build upon and continue doing all we can to make the supporter experience as rewarding as possible for our fans."

Last season saw four meetings held at London Stadium, with the Fan Feedback Forum in September, two SAB meetings in January and May respectively, and the introduction of the Disabled Supporter Advisory Board in April.

The 2016/17 members represented a number of diverse fan groups but also focused heavily on spectator sections within London Stadium, as part of the objective to address early issues at the stadium on matchdays and aim for constant improvement.

The group helped advise and guide on a number of key initiatives, including how to bring stewards closer to the West Ham family, the development of Supporter Liaison Officers and the creation of the DSAB.

At these meetings, we also set our mission; working together to develop and maintain a positive relationship and create the best supporter experience for all West Ham United fans and we would like to thank all of our supporters for their valued contribution throughout the 2016/17 season.

To ensure we build on the success of these meetings we have decided to increase the number of meetings to three SABs and three DSABs for 2017/2018, making it a total of six meetings between the Board and supporters for the upcoming season.

The first DSAB and SAB meetings for the 2017/18 season are scheduled as follows:

Disabled Supporter Advisory Board – Tuesday 5 September 2017 at 6pm, London Stadium.

Supporter Advisory Board – Wednesday 11 October 2017 at 6pm, London Stadium.

Why should I apply for the SAB?

This is a unique opportunity to work directly alongside fellow supporters and the Board to enhance the remove supporter experience for all West Ham fans. The agenda for each meeting is crafted based on the submissions received by supporters, with clear action points agreed collectively on the night and minutes published on whufc.com.

We're a team both on and off the pitch, so if you're a West Ham United fan with a passion for working together and you feel you can represent the views of your fellow supporters, then apply today!

Who do you wish to represent?

It has always been our aspiration that the SAB would evolve to have more members who represent a larger group or section of the overall fanbase. Those members will then be tasked with bringing forward the two or three core issues for the agenda that are specific to the group that they represent with a view to reaching a consensus for the years agenda for the Club to focus on and invest in as necessary, along with the various day to day issues that may crop up. There are a maximum of 25 members on the SAB, so please ensure you express key examples of the role you play in representing the category you have chosen.

We are excited to be inviting new applicants to represent, share and discuss the views of our supporters in the following areas:

Youth (under 25)
Senior (over 65)
Women
Supporters Clubs UK
Supporters Clubs International
Non-geographical Supporters Clubs (e.g. minority or representative groups)
1966 Season Ticket Holders
Season Ticket Holders from each stand
Away match-goers
Families
Club London (Bars)
Club London (Lounges)
Please choose the category you feel you could represent on the SAB 2017/2018 and complete the online or postal application form below:

Online application form

Postal application form

Please note that, as part of the application process, the Equal Opportunities section must also be completed and submitted in full. Failure to return this section of the form will unfortunately result in the application being void.

All applications should be received no later than September 15 at 5pm and all applicants will be notified by email whether their application has been successful or unsuccessful.

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'Allow Chicharito to express his personality' - The vital facts ahead of Newcastle v West Ham United
WHUFC.com

West Ham's final contest before the international break sees Slaven Bilic's side travel to the north east to take on Newcastle. Like the Hammers the recently promoted Magpies are yet to get a point on the board but Rafa Benitez will be hoping that changes against the Irons. How can the Hammers ensure a good result on Saturday at St James' Park? Former West Ham and Newcastle captain, and Notts County manager, Kevin Nolan has revealed the five methods for the Claret and Blue to get the win - and we've got the statistics to back it up!

'Use any St James' Park restlessness to your advantage'

Home advantage is difficult to measure but there's no doubt that playing away presents a different sort of test for travelling teams. In the last four matches between West Ham United and Newcastle the home team has emerged victorious. The last time the two clubs met was in the 2015/16 season - the Hammers bested the Magpies 2-0 at the Boleyn Ground but fell to a 2-1 defeat in the north east. However Nolan believes West Ham supporters need not worry about this particular statistic heading into Saturday's encounter. "I don't think the home team stat is a major concern heading into this game," Nolan said: "I think you have two teams who have had disappointing starts and both are desperate to put that right on Saturday. There's no better time to go to St James' Park at this minute because of what's going on at the club."

Newcastle have lost their first two Premier League games and Nolan believes the home fans might get restless if West Ham United are able to keep the Magpies quiet in the early exchanges - something that could lead to a good result for the Hammers. Nolan added: "The way things are going at Newcastle right now there's no better time to go there and get a result. There's a lot of negativity surrounding the place and I think West Ham should play on that – go there and silence the crowd. "Although the crowd are really behind Benitez and want the team to do well I feel if West Ham can shut up shop for the first 20 minutes and don't give anything away they can then start working their way into the game. St James's Park is the kind of place where once it's rocking away teams find it very difficult. The home fans can massively lift the Newcastle team. "West Ham have to understand that Newcastle are going to come out and get at them but I feel West Ham will have enough to hold out and work their way into the match."

'Ensure another Newcastle shut-out by bringing in Ginge'

It's been said before - goals win you games. Benitez's men have lost their opening two matches without getting on the scoresheet but Nolan reckons the Hammers cannot take that for granted given the seven goals the team have already conceded this campaign in the Premier League. "West Ham conceded three last week and four the week before. That really needs sorting out if they want to be successful this weekend," the Notts County manager insisted. New Zealand international Winston Reid is expected to miss out after suffering a calf injury in the warm-up against Southampton last weekend and while Nolan believes the No2 will be a big miss, he would like to see a former teammate of his come into the side in his place. "I think the team will miss Winston Reid this week," the former midfielder admitted. "Collins should come into the team. Even last year when West Ham were going through a tough time he came in and was absolutely superb. "He was a major influence in getting clean-sheets and building a solid foundation in defence. Ginge has a massive part to play. He'll have a big impact if he gets his opportunity."

'Allow Chicharito to express his personality'

"When we went there we dominated from start to finish," Nolan recalled. "They had a little spell but we dominated them. We were really on it that day and we should've won by more." The match the former West Ham United captain is referring to is the last time West Ham United won at St James' Park, thanks to a goal from Nolan himself in 2012. How can this Irons team earn a similar result this time? Nolan thinks it's a case of taking the defending back to basics and then just giving Javier Hernandez just one chance on goal. "West Ham have such quality in the team that they just have to get back to basics," Nolan suggested. "The team is conceding and leaking goals too easily. When they stop doing that just one or two opportunities will win them games, because of the quality brought in this summer.
On West Ham's new No17 Nolan added: "West Ham have now got a quality player in Chicharito up front, as we saw last week. He scored from two half-chances which he made look really easy. Those were goal-pochers finishes. They weren't easy but they were quality finishes from a striker that really understands football. I feel they've got to use him to their advantage. Anything that drops in that box to him, nine times out of ten, will end up in the back of the net. "Players the likes of Javier Hernandez can be your match-winners. With wins comes expression on the pitch and we will see these players expressing themselves a lot more."

'Don't permit Newcastle the chance to play'

In Tottenham Hotspur and Huddersfield Town, Newcastle have faced two tough matches to open their season. With that has come a disappointing pass accuracy. So far this campaign in the Premier League just 69% of the Toon's passes have been on target. Nolan believes the experience West Ham United now possess across the park - in particular with the likes of Pablo Zabaleta - the Irons can disrupt any Newcastle attempts to play the passing game. The Notts County boss reasoned: "Newcastle have had two difficult games. Against Tottenham they were down to ten men so they were never going to be passing them off the park. And Huddersfield made it a high tempo game in that match. "Newcastle aren't going to pass teams out of matches in the Premier League."

On how the Irons can capitalise he added: "Benitez said he wanted reinforcements but he hasn't got them. With that I think comes an air of negativity in the ranks. He doesn't trust a lot of the players he has to take the club forward. "West Ham can pounce on that, get in their faces and not give them chances to play. It's about West Ham going there, shutting them out and most importantly quieting the crowd."

'Understand the importance of Newcastle's set-pieces'

"Whoever has scored the most set-pieces in the Premier League are normally in the top four and those who don't concede them are usually in the top half of the table," Nolan stated, emphasising their importance. Such a statement rings true. Newcastle scored the most goals from set-pieces in the Championship last season and the Magpies finished the campaign as division champions. Nolan briefly worked under Slaven Bilic at West Ham United and says the manager knows how essential set-pieces are to winning - and losing - any match. But the former captain feels that the Irons can secure a win if they can stifle Newcastle's prowess from corners and free-kicks, which in turn will prove to be catalyst the team need to kick-start the campaign. "Bilic, as a former defender, knows the importance of set-pieces. All of the players on the pitch should know that set-pieces will play a massive part of every game across the season. What you're doing is giving their best player an opportunity to put a ball in the box and you can't do anything about it. "If West Ham can handle Newcastle's set-pieces it gives them a great chance of coming away with a good result and kick-starting their season."

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View of the opposition: Newcastle v West Ham United
WHUFC.com

West Ham can take several positives to the North East this weekend. Slaven Bilic's side fought back from 2-0 down with 10 men to draw level at Southampton, with summer signing Javier Hernandez contributing two goals. The Hammers can take heart from Newcastle's start to the season, too. Saturday's hosts were toothless in defeat at Huddersfield and are yet to score this season. Aleksandar Mitrovic, meanwhile, is their only striker to have managed 10 or more goals in one season in any European top tier.
The Irons have kept a clean sheet on two of their last four trips to St James' Park, and can achieve a shutout in this one. At the other end, Hernandez's role in Saturday's comeback offered huge encouragement, and his sharpness inside the penalty box is pivotal to his side's chances this weekend. Encouragingly, the Mexican scored three goals against Newcastle for Manchester United, including on his last trip to St James' Park in April 2014. Dele Alli and Ben Davies both scored typical Hernandez-style goals for Spurs at St James' a fortnight ago, and with the hosts fielding a makeshift defence, there will be chances again. So despite the fact that the home side has won the last four games between these two, West Ham can be confident of securing victory. Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has himself admitted that much of his starting XI are not yet Premier League-ready, so the Hammers should take advantage to get their season going.

Recommended bets

West Ham to win – 21/10
Newcastle not to score – 14/5
Javier Hernandez to score West Ham's first goal – 7/2

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Snodgrass joins Aston Villa on season-long loan
WHUFC.com

West Ham United can confirm that Robert Snodgrass has joined Championship club Aston Villa on a season-long loan. The Scotland international has linked up with his former Hull City manager Steve Bruce at Villa Park, where he will hope to play regular first-team football and boost the Villans' promotion hopes. Snodgrass, 29, joined the Hammers from Hull in January and made 15 appearances last season. West Ham would like to wish Robert all the best for his loan spell.

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Seven facts you might not know about John Lyall
WHUFC.com

August 25 represents the 43rd anniversary of the appointment of John Lyall as West Ham United manager. Lyall has gone down in history as the club's most successful ever boss, guiding the Hammers to two FA Cups, their highest ever league finish and the final of the European Cup Winners' Cup and the Football League Cup. As we celebrate the date of Lyall's move to become first team manager, here are seven facts you might not have known about the legendary coach.

He played in the FA Youth cup final

A promising football career for Lyall was tragically cut far too short by injury, when a disarranged knee left him unable to play professionally at just 23 years old.
The defender has looked an excellent proposition for West Ham growing up, standing out in the youth team and even playing for the Irons in the FA Youth Cup Final of 1957. Unfortunately, the Hammers were bested by Manchester United across two legs in that tie but Lyall made an impression and was brought into the first team just two years later.

He was brought in by Ron Greenwood

With playing football no longer an option Lyall was given the chance to coach the youth team on a part time basis, having previously taken a job in the wages department at the Boleyn Ground. Lyall impressed with his mannerisms and coaching style during his part-time role and, when a full-time vacancy at the club became available, the former player was offered the opportunity to take it. The man who gave Lyall those coaching chances? None other than Ron Greenwood – the then-West Ham United manager who Lyall would eventually be asked to replace in 1974.

He won the FA Cup in his first season

Lyall's appointment as West Ham United manager paid dividends within his first campaign in charge. The coach led the Irons to the FA Cup in his very first season as boss. Two goals from Alan Taylor saw the Hammers best Fulham 2-0 on that day in 1975 at Wembley to give the club their second FA Cup success. Lyall would also be the man to take West Ham United to their third, and most recent, FA Cup win in 1980 when the Hammers beat Arsenal in the final in 1980.

Led West Ham to their highest ever finish

Lyall was West Ham United manager until 1989 – an impressive 15 year run which also saw the Hammers achieve their highest ever finish in the top flight. West Ham were in the running to win the First Division title heading into the final weeks of the 1985/86 season, although Liverpool would eventually secure the championship. Despite this disappointment the Irons were still able to finish in an excellent third place, between Everton and Manchester United, an achievement that hasn't been matched or bettered since.

He gave 34 years of service

Lyall eventually left West Ham United in 1989, having started with the side as an academy prospect in 1955. The former player and iconic manager gave 34 years services to West Ham in that time, beginning life at the Boleyn Ground as a ground staff boy, helping to roll the pitch and cleaning the senior players' boots. Lyall worked his way up to the first team from the academy, and then worked his way into the main dugout.

He was responsible for a number of top talents

It wasn't just silverware that Lyall achieved for West Ham. The manager was also responsible for introducing the Boleyn Ground faithful to some of the team's biggest legends. It was Lyall who brought Tony Cottee through the ranks and into the first team in 1982, and it was also Lyall who gave Alvin Martin his chance in the West Ham senior side in 1976. It's the same story with Alan Devonshire and it was also Lyall who signed the very popular Julian Dicks in 1988. If not for Lyall West Ham United may have never met some of these names.

The Gates at Upton Park

Lyall sadly passed away in 2006 at just 66, and in 2009 the former player and manager's name was given to the famous gates outside the Boleyn Ground. Those gates have followed West Ham United to Stratford as a reminder of the decades of service and joy Lyall gave to the club and the supporters.

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U18s will have their chances at Arsenal, says Phillips
WHUFC.com

West Ham United U18s coach Mark Phillips believes Arsenal will provide plenty of chances when they host the Hammers at their London Colney training base in the Premier League U18 South division on Saturday. Phillips' side have started the season in disappointing fashion, losing first at Brighton before then going down 3-0 to Southampton last weekend. But the Academy coach believes his side have the ability to bounce back on Saturday against an outfit who play in a similar style to the visitors. He said: "Arsenal are really like us, actually. They're good in possession, but they're the sort of side that will give you a chance. "Look at last year – we were 3-1 down at Arsenal and we ended up drawing 3-3, because they will give you a chance. "They play an expansive game. In possession, they're a very good side, we have to keep that in mind on Saturday. "It's been a tough start for us, but despite that, the scorelines we've had so far haven't really reflected how we've played. They haven't flattered us, but we've had the lions' share of possession in both those two games. "Obviously we're working on now keeping the goals out. If we can do that, we know goals will come in terms of scoring because we have the players to do that."

Despite the two defeats, there have been plenty of positives for the U18s, including the performance of 15-year-old defender Will Greenidge who has stepped up from the U16s. Phillips thinks the full-back has raised his game and has deserved his spot in the U18s' squad. "Will obviously played for us last week, and he's an U16 – a 15-year-old lad – who has done well. He did well last week and he's playing for us again this week. The younger lads we can blood in the team, the better.
"Obviously for us as a team, it's about developing your players and of course that means we are thinking about our next game and that only, not necessarily the season as a whole. The more we can get into the U23s, the better. "Of course we want to win games having said that, and we'll want to beat Arsenal on Saturday obviously. "As a West Ham myself, what I really want this weekend is for not only my U18s to beat Arsenal, but for the first team to go and get their first win at Newcastle too!"

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EXWHUEMPLOYEE: TRANSFER UPDATE COLUMN
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 AUGUST 2017 AT 10:36PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk

So the story broke this evening on a West Ham website stating that the much prolonged transfer of William Carvalho to West Ham from Sporting Lisburn was off due to the clubs unable to agree a fee and the fitness of the player. The story was immediately picked up by Sky and ran as exactly the same content as the mentioned West Ham website. Sky, through one of their journalists, basically admitted that this is the case and they had copied article because the site had used the words "senior source" a term that is used in most of the sites' articles. This is basically the final confirmation needed that Sky do use the likes of myself and other websites for "their news". More often than not the next day after our radio show most of the stories from that appear on Sky so that many twitter members now refer to me as "Sky Sources", I find this a very strange move by a multi-billion company. In the five years I have deliberately made up two stories to see if Sky ran with them and to the amazement of myself and my friends Sky did exactly that.

Anyway, enough about that, onto the story. This transfer has been ongoing for the last 3-4 weeks or so. The club thinks that we are close to a deal and then Sporting move the goal posts this has happened on a number of occasions and is no different to what is going on now. The club offered Sporting an ultimatum today to take the offer and so far they have chosen not to do so. West Ham and David Sullivan are becoming particularly frustrated with them. There comes a point where you have to draw the line and say look take it or leave it (and stay firm), this is part of the negotiation period however the deal is not dead yet.

Sporting have a dilemma on their hands. As I have reported for a few weeks now they are very hard negotiators and they are hoping that we back down or another club comes in and offers more. They have been actively seeking other buyers. The problems are more down to the actual down payment, which we wanted a large part spread over a number of years and Sporting didn't. We have told them our limit they have said what they want but at the moment these do not meet. This is a very similar case to that of Arnautovic except the transfer wasn't in the press as much as it is this deal. Something needs to budge here. The player has made it very clear he wishes to move and when this is the case it is very hard for the club who owns him to do much, as we saw with Payet last year and Stoke with Arnautovic.

As I said yesterday, which was also confirmed by Bilic, the club was confident on the deal. It is still proving to be very tricky at this point and I can see this going right down to the wire-they may not be as confident now. We could still not end up with the player but it isn't "dead" as some headlines screamed. The comments about the player not being fit for 3 weeks and that being a factor not to sign him I find incredibly bizarre. He has been called up for the Portugal squad to play next weekend and has played preseason and competitive games for Sporting already this season. Even if he wasn't fit for three weeks, this is the biggest deal in the clubs' history, would 3 weeks to get him fit really put us off a deal and surely we knew this throughout the negotiation period?!

Slav has stated this is the only player that he wants now and it is unlikely that another deal will happen unless a last minute loan deal becomes available. Bilic was confident that William would sign on Thursday and whilst it is taking much longer and proving to be more difficult this could go down right to the very end. It is like when you buy a house, a simple change in circumstances can mean a done deal falls apart, or a house that you don't think you will get suddenly they agree terms. It is not over until the fat lady sings or in another words 11pm on Thursday so until then try to stay calm. At this point it is hard to say either way which way the deal will go.

In other news Robert Snodgrass joined Villa on a season long loan, something which has been on the cards for a while. We will pay around 30% of his wages which were about 60k. He has clauses which will make the deal permanent if he reaches them and the fee has been agreed if he does.

As far as tomorrow's match goes, it is good news that Bilic, who had been considering "protecting" Declan Rice for the match appears to have change his mind and he is in the squad and expected to keep his place. There are other team selection choices that I agree with too in what now is a really important game for us!

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Slaven Bilic: It's all about confidence at this level and West Ham are up for it
SLAVEN BILIC
ES Sport

I heard someone describe our match at Newcastle tomorrow as "the basement battle". Come on - after two games? Both of us certainly need some points after two defeats, though, and they will come, I am sure of that. Where perhaps we will have a small advantage tomorrow is in confidence. We managed a good win at Cheltenham in the League Cup on Wednesday while Newcastle lost at home to Nottingham Forest. In football at this level, results dictate everything - mood, atmosphere, family life. Everything about Wednesday was positive. I have seen many of those matches, and played in plenty, where things don't go as planned. Cheltenham were a team of giants, they were very fit and they never gave up. I thought we were in control for long spells and everyone in the team contributed. You could see, in the training session the following morning, how the mood had changed. There were more smiles, more banter. "Lanzini, Carroll and Kouyate have all trained fully this week. Now I have to make a decision about which has a chance for tomorrow"

One victory can make that much difference. Confidence in football, in sport, in life in general, is such an important thing. Perhaps we will have the edge there but events will dictate whether we keep it. If we don't start well, then that confidence can quickly disappear. It's not difficult to see, after our first two Premier League matches, where our problems lie, with seven goals conceded, four against Manchester United and three more at Southampton. We are working hard in training on eradicating those defensive mistakes. First and foremost, we must not lose possession in dangerous areas of the pitch. If you do that, at this level, you will be punished, especially if you have too many players in front of the ball. There have been other areas of defending in which we have not done well in these first two games and we have looked at those — and worked hard at ensuring we improve. We are ready for tomorrow, though, and we have almost everyone in the squad fit. Only Winston Reid, who should be ready to come back after the international break, and Marko Arnautovic, who is suspended, are not available for this game.

Manuel Lanzini, Andy Carroll and Cheikhou Kouyate have all been training fully this week and now I have to make a decision about which of them has a chance for tomorrow. Cheikhou had around 20 minutes' action at Cheltenham, mainly just to let him feel the tempo and pace of a match again, and he will be in the squad tomorrow barring last-minute problems. Manuel and Andy are both keen but it would be a step too far to put them all back in at the same time. I was asked yesterday about Andy's future at the club, in the light of rumours about him going back to Newcastle. All I can say is that I spoke with him, not recently but several months ago, and he was happy here. We know he can still play a big part in the success of this team but only if he stays fit. He and the staff have been working really hard on strengthening his core and, from what he has shown in training, the hard work is paying off.

With regard to Newcastle, I understand they may not have been able to land some of their transfer targets but that is always a danger. Often your top choices don't materialise and perhaps you aim too high but they have spent decent money — more than us, I believe — and the window is not yet closed. As for us, we remain hopeful of signing William Carvalho from Sporting Lisbon. He is a player who I firmly believe will make all the difference to us and I know David Sullivan continues to work hard on the deal.

International break is always a nightmare

International breaks such as the one coming up after the weekend are an integral part of the football calendar but they are a bit of a nightmare for us club managers. Following tomorrow's match, we have six players involved with their countries in World Cup qualifiers, here in Europe but also in South America and Africa. Those who remain will be training as normal but obviously things will be restricted. The one advantage we have - and it is a considerable one - is that we don't play until the Monday night, when we have our first home match of the season against Huddersfield. That will give those players who have made long flights a couple of precious extra days to recover from fatigue and jet lag.
I am delighted that Joe Hart and Aaron Cresswell have been picked for England. Joe has been the No1 national goalkeeper for some time now, but Aaron is also becoming a regular, which is great for him and testament to his hard work, especially after the serious knee injury he sustained just over a year ago. Michail Antonio did not make it this time but I am 100 per cent sure he will be back in that England squad before long. He has just returned following the operation on a badly torn hamstring and, with this being a World Cup year, I know how hungry he is to be involved. He was terrific in his first match back last weekend and will only get stronger.

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Aston Villa set to sign Robert Snodgrass from West Ham on loan
Last Updated: 25/08/17 10:35am
SSN

Robert Snodgrass is to have a medical at Aston Villa ahead of a planned season-long loan move from West Ham, according to Sky sources. Sunderland and Birmingham were also interested in signing the Scotland international but Villa are now on the verge of securing his services. And we understand the Championship side have an option to buy the 29-year-old at the end of the loan spell. Villa boss Steve Bruce is very familiar with Snodgrass, the pair having worked together when Bruce was in charge of Hull. West Ham only signed Snodgrass from the Tigers for £7.5m last January but he has now been deemed surplus tio requirements by the London side. if Villa sign Snodgrass, the deal could open the door for fellow Championship side Sunderland to sign forward Ross McCormack on loan from Villa.

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West Ham to step up move for William Carvalho with Robert Snodgrass set for Aston Villa move
KEN DYER
ES Sport

West Ham midfielder Robert Snodgrass is expected to complete his move to Championship club Aston Villa, after an unsuccessful eight months at the London Stadium, opening the door for the Hammers to move for William Carvalho. Snodgrass was in Birmingham on Friday and the season-long loan deal is expected to be confirmed subject to a medical. The Glasgow-born 29-year-old moved to West Ham from Hull City in January in a £10.8million deal but has failed to tie down a regular place, making just 15 appearances and failing to find the back of the net. The move may hasten West Ham's bid to sign Portuguese midfielder Carvalho from Sporting Lisbon. Manager Slaven Bilic is keen but there is a £5m gap between Sporting's valuation and West Ham's most recent offer. Earlier in the week, the Croatian admitted that should any more players leave, replacements would have to be brought in due to the size of their squad, meaning if a deal for the Sporting man can't be achieved, they will have to turn to other targets.

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WHY RAFA?
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 AUGUST 2017 AT 12:53PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @FarehamHammer

Rightly or wrongly, there is already much speculation in the media regarding Slaven Bilic's future as manager of West Ham United. In some quarters it has been said that The Board have already drawn up a short list of potential managers to succeed him, should they in the words of Eggert Magnusson feel the need to "cut the manager's throat". Yes it is early days, and Slaven deserves a chance to turn things around. Hopefully he will. He is also lucky that he reports to Gold and Sullivan, who have a track record of standing by their manager in tough times.

However, West Ham cannot afford another season like last, and you can bet your bottom dollar they will not stand for a repeat of some of the shambolic performances we witnessed last season. If Sam Allardyce had delivered such shocking performances there would have been riots. Some of the football was as dire as any under Big Sam. It started early in the campaign with a 3-0 home loss to Southampton. We were so poor that day, Southampton could have put eight past us! We never really recovered from that game. At times Bilic resembled Forest Gump on the touchline. Clueless.

To be fair to Slaven, he had a lot on his plate with Dimitri Payet's antics. He also had to deal with one of the worst transfer windows possible. Not since Harry spent the 18m from the sale of Rio Ferdinand on Rigobert Song, Titi Camara, David Burrows and Mike Marsh, had I seen such a waste of money. Many have blamed The Board for the poor recruitment. Well IF that was the case then why did Slaven give the bloody green light to the signings? He is the bloody manager FFS!

This time round The Board have backed Slaven and brought in HIS signings. If we manage to bring in William Carvalho, and keep hold of Manuel Lanzini, it will be the best transfer window in living memory. Bilic has had a full pre-season with the no Europa League Qualifying games to worry about. Yet judging by the first two games, things have hardly improved since than last season. Which is worrying. Many are asking questions now, such as would Bilic have enjoyed such a great first season in charge if he never had Payet and Lanzini playing at the top of their game? I don't know. What I do know is that things have to improve on the pitch very quickly.

I keep hearing that IF worse comes to worst, and The Board decide to give Slav his P45, Rafa Benitez is top of The Board's wanted list. Apparently legend has it that Rafa was within an hour of joining us before he signed up to his 'dream' job of managing Real Madrid. Unfortunately the 'dream' job only lasted six months before Real Madrid decided it was bye bye Rafa time. My question is why Rafa? It's a myth that he is a great manager. The myth was built upon Liverpool's comeback win in the Champions League Final against AC Milan. That was not down to any tactical switch or inspirational speech from Benitez at half time! That comeback was on the back of Steven Gerrard, who was simply unplayable. As was the case when we played Liverpool in the 2006 FA Cup Final. Rafa the genius? A###! The hallmark of a Rafa Benitez reign at every Club boils down to two things. He is always crying about the lack of transfer funds, and he stifles the progress of the youth. If we happen to make a change, there is one man I would like to see come to The Club;

Brendan Rodgers.

He has had his setbacks but certainly did a better job at Liverpool than Rafa for starters. Indeed he came very close to winning the Premier League, being pipped at the post by Chelsea. Rodgers style of football is pleasing to the eye, with high pressing, inventive, crisp football on the deck. Football we call The West Ham Way. Rodgers is not scared to give the youth a chance either, as is apparent with so many new faces being introduced at Celtic. Yes, some will say the SPL is a pub League. Still, Celtic played Manchester City twice last season in The Champions League, drawing on both occasions. Playing ATTACKING and INVENTIVE FOOTBALL. With the squad we have, and the quality of youth we have coming through now, in my opinion Brendan Rodgers would be the perfect fit to manage West Ham United.

However, let's hope we don't have to make a managerial change now. Slaven Bilic gave us a FANTASTIC first season. Winning at Anfield?? I never ever thought I would see the day we did that! Unfortunately, as Claudio Raineiri found out, you cannot live on past achievement. The same goes for Slaven Bilic. He has got to show that last season was nothing more than a blip, and he has to do it soon. I for one hope he does!

We are more than a football Club.

We're a way of life!

COYI!!

Farehamhammer!!

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ARE YOU A PROPER WEST HAM FAN?
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 AUGUST 2017 AT 1:15PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Lambeth Hammer

Hi everyone, a lot has been said lately about proper fans going home and away every game and I thought i'd write an article on the subject.

I'll briefly start by telling you my situation. I have a season ticket and go to roughly 1/3 of away games. I used to go to most away games as well but now I have a mortgage and a young son. I consider myself very fortunate to be able to attend that many games. But am I no now longer considered as good or as dedicated a supporter as ten years ago? I wouldn't say so at all. I missed about 4 home games last season due to commitments with my son and do I regret them? No not for one second.

I've read a lot of tweets lately (generally from youngsters) who have criticised other fans lack of attendance to matches and in some cases suggesting they aren't proper fans for not travelling away. Not every supporter still lives at home with their parents, is child free and has the luxury of pretty much doing what they want when they want. Then you have to consider that not every supporter lives in London/Essex. We have a lot of fans based around the country and I would imagine for a supporter living in the north east it is a very expensive day out travelling down to London and back for a match.

One conversation I read recently claimed that ALL supporters have a choice whether or not to attend a match. The way I see it is that someone in their late teens/early twenties with no commitments who chooses to spend all weekend down the pub or spend their money on a new Ralph Lauren tracksuit as opposed to going to football has chose one luxury over the other. A husband with three child may be in a situation where he has to chose (if he is lucky) between going to the football or taking his children to the cinema then pizza hut for dinner. I would argue as much as he has a choice it would simply not be acceptable in my opinion to chose a football match over your children if it was one or the other. I know where my priorities would lie and it wouldn't be heading off to the London stadium watching Calleri masquerade as a striker.

It must be a social media thing but why is it a competition as to how many games someone goes to over a season? Anyone who goes home and away every game I salute you and I would go as far as to say that yes they are hardcore supporters imo but it doesn't mean plenty of others wouldn't do exactly the same given the opportunity.

Anyway that's my rant over, maybe one day the youngsters who see it as such a big deal may even get laid and have children of their own! Once responsibilities arrive at your doorstep west ham isn't as big a priority as it once was let me warn you…..

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Newcastle v West Ham preview: Manuel Lanzini to return from injury
Last Updated: 25/08/17 2:46pm
SSN

Manuel Lanzini could make his first appearance of the season when West Ham travel to Newcastle on Saturday. The 24-year-old missed the Hammers' Premier League defeats to Manchester United and Southampton, as well as the Carabao Cup win at Cheltenham, after suffering a knee injury in pre-season. However, manager Slaven Bilic said: "He was back with the squad on Monday, and he looks really sharp. "Of course he's hungry, because he was missing while he was injured...he is definitely going to be involved in the squad, and we will see how much we use him."

Both West Ham and Newcastle are without any points after their opening two games of the season. The Magpies started with a home loss to Tottenham before a 1-0 defeat to fellow Premier League new boys Huddersfield. That was followed by an early exit in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday after an extra-time defeat to Nottingham Forest. "We have to move forward quickly. Getting three points in the next league game is our objective," said manager Rafael Benitez. "I have confidence the team will improve if we keep working the way we are now,"

Team news

Florian Lejeune, DeAndre Yedlin and goalkeeper Karl Darlow miss out for Newcastle through injury. Striker Dwight Gayle faces a late fitness test after missing the defeat to Forest in midweek.

Andy Carroll is back in West Ham training after his latest lay-off due to a thigh problem and will be assessed. Winston Reid (calf) is the only definite injury absentee while Marko Arnautovic is still suspended.

Opta stats

Newcastle United have lost just one of their last 13 Premier League home games against West Ham United (W7 D5 L1).

Only against Aston Villa (22) and Tottenham (21) have Newcastle United won more Premier League matches than versus West Ham United (17).

Newcastle have lost both of their opening two games to a Premier League season for only the third time. On the other two occasions, they finished the season in the top 11 (3rd in 1993-94 and 11th in 1999-00).

Newcastle lost in extra-time to Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup in midweek
Newcastle lost in extra-time to Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup in midweek
West Ham have conceded seven goals in their opening two Premier League games of the season; the most they have conceded at this stage in a league campaign since 1988-89 (7).

This is the fifth time that West Ham United have lost their opening two games to a Premier League season, but they have only been relegated in one of those campaigns (2010-11).

Newcastle haven't won a Premier League game in the month of August since 2013; losing five and drawing four of their nine matches in the month since then.

Joe Hart has conceded 17 goals in his last five appearances in league competition and saved just 10 shots in this period.

Merson's prediction

The way Javier Hernandez has started the season has been very impressive. Against a Newcastle side that need several signings before Deadline Day, and appears to be in disarray, I fancy West Ham at St. James' Park. Things could unravel for Newcastle if they're not careful. Rafa Benitez is not at the club to be an also-ran, he needs to be back in the market.

PAUL PREDICTS: 0-2 (with Sky Bet)

Betting

Newcastle are Sky Bet's 5/4 favourites with West Ham priced at 11/5 while a draw is a 23/10 chance. The Magpies have, however, had their relegation odds almost halved, from 4/1 to 9/4, following their winless and goalless start. Dwight Gayle and Joselu share favouritism a wide-open first goalscorer market at 5/1 apiece, closely followed by Javier Hernandez and Andy Carroll (both 11/2).

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West Ham's deal for William Carvalho from Sporting Lisbon has collapsed
Last Updated: 25/08/17 8:00pm
SSN

West Ham have pulled out of a deal to sign William Carvalho from Sporting Lisbon, according to Sky sources. (in this case Hugh Southton ) The Hammers decided to walk away after Sporting refused to lower their £40m valuation for the Portugal midfielder, and the London club also have concerns about Carvalho's fitness.
A senior source at the club said: "He just got too expensive and you have to say no sometimes. Also, he's not trained for three weeks. He has done no pre-season training - so he might have needed four-six weeks to be ready to play for us." Carvalho was a member of the Portugal team who won Euro 2016 and has been linked with a move to West Ham all summer. When asked about the situation on Thursday, Hammers boss Slaven Bilic said: "Nothing new. It is a position we have been trying to do that (strengthen) for a couple of seasons now. "We need someone to boost our team, quality and everything." But Bilic said the Hammers would not be panicked into buying a lesser player if the Carvalho deal collapsed, adding: "I think you say OK, no problem, we have good players. "We are not talking about the quantity, we are not talking about boosting our squad. We are talking about boosting our game. "The quality player not the quantity one. It is not easy to get them but we are doing our best."

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WEST HAM NOT GIVING UP ON CARVALHO DEAL
DANIEL EMERY @DanielEmeryRS
ReadWestHam

West Ham's move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho is not dead, according to Telegraph Jason Burt. Burt says that the deal is not yet dead and West Ham still hope to conclude a move to sign him before the end of the month. There is just under a week left in the transfer window, with West Ham having until 11pm next Thursday to finish their business for the summer. There were reports earlier today suggesting that a deal for Carvalho was off the cards. Sporting are said to be holding out for a £40m deal, which reportedly put West Ham off. However, that does not appear to be the case. West Ham are still looking to finalise a deal and bring the European Championships winner to the Premier League.

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Newcastle United vs West Ham United: Team news, kick-off time, probable line-ups, odds and stats from the Premier League clash
Newcastle host West Ham at St James' Park on Saturday afternoon in top flight
Manuel Lanzini will be in West Ham's squad for their trip to Newcastle
By Pa Reporter
PUBLISHED: 12:50, 25 August 2017 | UPDATED: 12:50, 25 August 2017

Ahead of this weekend's Premier League action, Sportsmail will be providing you with all you need to know about every fixture, with team news, provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information you need for Newcastle United's home clash with West Ham.

Newcastle United vs West Ham (St James' Park)

Team news
Newcastle
To follow...

West Ham
Manuel Lanzini will be added to the West Ham squad for the trip to Newcastle after recovering from a knee injury.
Andy Carroll is also back in training after his latest lay-off due to a thigh problem and will be assessed.
Winston Reid (calf) is the only definite injury absentee while Marko Arnautovic is still suspended.

Provisional Squad: Hart, Adrian, Zabaleta, Byram, Masuaku, Cresswell, Ogbonna, Collins, Fonte, Obiang, Noble, Kouyate, Fernandes, Rice, Lanzini, Antonio, Ayew, Sakho, Hernandez, Carroll.

Key match stats (supplied by Opta)

Newcastle United have lost just one of their last 13 Premier League home games against West Ham United (W7 D5 L1).

Only against Aston Villa (22) and Tottenham Hotspur (21) have Newcastle United won more Premier League matches than versus West Ham United (17).

Newcastle United have lost both of their opening two games to a Premier League season for only the third time. On the other two occasions, they finished the season in the top 11 (3rd in 1993-94 and 11th in 1999-00).

The only previous time that Newcastle United have lost their opening three games to a Premier League season was in 1999-00, when they had to wait until their fourth game to pick up their first point.

West Ham have conceded seven goals in their opening two Premier League games of the season; the most they have conceded at this stage in a league campaign since 1988-89 (7).

This is the fifth time that West Ham United have lost their opening two games to a Premier League season, but they have only been relegated in one of those campaigns (2010-11).

The aforementioned 2010-11 Premier League season is the only previous time that the Hammers have lost each of their opening three games to a Premier League campaign.

Newcastle United haven't won a Premier League game in the month of August since 2013; losing five and drawing four of their nine matches in the month since then.

Rafael Benitez has seen his Newcastle side lose their first two Premier League games of the season under his stewardship – he's never lost three successive games as a Premier League manager before.

Joe Hart has conceded 17 goals in his last five appearances in league competition and saved just 10 shots in this period.

Javier Hernández has now scored 39 Premier League goals following his brace on MD2 against Southampton; all 39 of these goals have come from inside the box.

The Mexican poacher has scored three goals in his last four Premier League starts against Newcastle United.

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Swarbrick to take charge of Hammers clash
Written by Tom Easterby NUFC Logo Newcastle United FC

Neil Swarbrick has been confirmed as the referee for Newcastle United's Premier League clash with West Ham United on Saturday. It is Swarbrick's second appointment of the season, having taken charge of Everton's 1-0 win at home to Stoke City on the opening weekend of the campaign. The 51-year-old oversaw two Magpies fixtures last term – the 1-1 draw and eventual penalty shoot-out defeat at Hull City in the EFL Cup in November in which he sent off Hull's Dieumerci Mbokani, and the 1-1 FA Cup draw at Birmingham City in January. In total, Lancashire referee Swarbrick dished out 126 yellow cards and three reds in 34 matches during 2016/17, and a further two yellows in his one outing of this season so far at Goodison Park a fortnight ago He will be assisted on Saturday by Darren Cann and Scott Legder, while Mike Jones will be the fourth official.

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West Ham and Everton on red alert after Benfica slash Raul Jimenez's asking price
West Ham transfer news sees the Hammers ready to resurrect move for the Mexican forward
Football London
BYROB GUEST
09:39, 25 AUG 2017

The future of Benfica striker Raul Jimenez has taken yet another twist. Linked with a move to West Ham throughout the summer, it looked like a transfer wouldn't happen as the Portuguese club were demanding €50million for their forward. However, that eye-watering price has quickly fallen. Portuguese daily Record have claimed that Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira has now reduced the price to €40million to attract potential suitors. Everton and Monaco are believed to be interested, yet the price tag could still be too steep for a player that spent the majority of last season on the substitutes' bench. Despite Jimenez's value dropping over the past few days, Record believe it will drop even further as Benfica look to offload the Mexican striker. The newspaper report that Inter Milan forward Gabigol has chosen to seal a loan move to Benfica instead of rivals Sporting Lisbon. While it would be a major coup for the Primeira Liga champions, the Eagles need to sell Jimenez before completing a deal for the Brazilian. Given the player's price tag will now slip even more, Slaven Bilic could be tempted into resurrecting a move for the player who he tried to sign in 2015.

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Double boost for West Ham over Slaven Bilic and Manuel Lanzini claims
HITC
Damien Lucas

West Ham United have received a double boost over the future of two of their most important figures. Slaven Bilic, Manager of West Ham United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Southampton and West Ham United at St Mary's Stadium on August 19, 2017 in Southampton, England. The Hammers lost both their opening Premier League games, 4-0 to Manchester United and 3-2 to Southampton before a 2-0 win over Cheltenham in the League Cup. Slaven Bilic - who retains the support of a large majority of the clubs supporters - is already under pressure according to The Mirror with the likes of Laurent Blanc and Thomas Tuchel reportedly being lined up to replace him. Supporters have also had to endure speculation that their star player Manuel Lanzini could be set for a move to Liverpool or even the mighty Barcelona after recently breaking into the Argentina squad, as reported by the likes of The Sun. But there was positive news on both fronts this week as two well-placed West Ham sources denied either will be leaving the East Londoners. Ian Abrahams, a West Ham fan and reporter for talkSPORT, told the radio station that he had spoken to the West Ham board who rubbished the story. "I don't think he's under any real pressure at all," Abrahams told talkSPORT. "I've been making some enquiries about it and my sources at West Ham have told me, quote... unquote, 'the story is total rubbish'. "I can't tell you that (my source) but as far as I know from the owners it's not a true story."

Then when pressed on the future of Lanzini, top Hammers Twitter source ExWHUEmployee joined the manager in reassuring fans. "Nothing to worry about (regarding Lanzini's future), Bilic covered this in his press conference," ExWHUEmployee said on Twitter.

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ExWHUemployee @ExWHUemployee
Nothing to worry about, Bilic covered this in his press conference. The transcript is on the West Ham way https://twitter.com/jamie__mumford/status/898204686527983617
4:29 PM - Aug 17, 2017

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MATCH PREVIEW: NEWCASTLE V WEST HAM
By Dan Coker 25 Aug 2017 at 08:00
WTID

Blast from the past

West Ham United had opened the 1977/78 campaign with three defeats from their first three games and been knocked out of the League Cup by Nottingham Forest in a 5-0 defeat when they travelled to Newcastle United on 3rd September 1977 – Elvis Presley had died just over two weeks previously but was number one with 'Way Down', Roger Moore's James Bond was in UK cinemas in The Spy Who Loved Me and the Hammers bagged maximum points with a 3-2 First Division victory over the Magpies in front of 26,983 at St James' Park.


The Irons went into the fixture almost 40 years ago with a major injury crisis (what's new?!) and were without both Billy Bonds and Trevor Brooking. The visitors found themselves 2-0 down as Newcastle took control through goals from striker Micky Burns and a long-range stunner by Northern Ireland international midfielder Tommy Cassidy. The Hammers pulled one back before half-time, Billy Jennings (pictured) rifling home a 'Pop' Robson cross after expertly controlling on his chest.

West Ham were level within four minutes of the restart when Pat Holland's low cross was turned in by Alan Taylor. The comeback was complete when Frank Lampard's free-kick was headed home by Robson, returning to his former club. All the goals from this match, plus an interview with John Lyall, can be seen in my video below.

Lyall's Hammers would end the 1977/78 Division One season in 20th position and were relegated after finishing a solitary point behind QPR, while Newcastle would also suffer the drop as they finished one place and ten points behind the Irons. Robson would be the Hammers' top scorer with 11 goals from 41 appearances, while Brooking would be voted Hammer of the Year for the fourth time. Nottingham Forest won the league title and Ipswich won the FA Cup.

Newcastle United: Mick Mahoney, Ray Blackhall, John Bird, Kenny Mitchell (Irving Nattrass), Aiden McCaffrey, Alan Kennedy, Graham Oates, Tommy Cassidy, David McLean, Tommy Craig, Micky Burns.

West Ham United: Mervyn Day, Frank Lampard, Kevin Lock, Tommy Taylor, Paul Brush, Alan Curbishley, Pat Holland, Alan Devonshire, Billy Jennings, Alan Taylor, Bryan 'Pop' Robson.



Club Connections

West Ham United and Newcastle United have shared a multitude of personnel over the years. Andy Carroll could face his former employers on Saturday, while Mohamed Diame welcomes his former club to St James' Park. A brief run-through of others who have represented both clubs is best served by dividing them by playing position.

Goalkeepers: Shaka Hislop, Pavel Srnicek, Matt Kingsley and Ike Tate.

Defenders: Tommy Bamlett, Abdoulaye Faye, Wayne Quinn, Dave Gardner, Dickie Pudan, James Jackson and Stuart Pearce.

Midfielders: Kevin Nolan, Scott Parker, Lee Bowyer, Rob Lee, Nolberto Solano, Kieron Dyer and Franz Carr.

Strikers: James Loughlin, Paul Goddard, Les Ferdinand, John Dowsey, Bryan 'Pop' Robson, Justin Fashanu, Demba Ba, Marlon Harewood, David Kelly, Keith Robson, Vic Keeble, Craig Bellamy and Paul Kitson.

Chris Hughton also played for the Hammers and managed the Magpies while Sam Allardyce has managed both clubs. Glenn Roeder also played for Newcastle and managed both clubs.

This week's focus though is on another man who has managed both clubs. Alan Pardew was born in Wimbledon on 18th July 1961 – a former glazier, Pardew signed for Crystal Palace from non-league Yeovil in 1987 at the age of 25 and remained at the club for four years. He signed for Charlton in 1991 and scored the winning goal against West Ham in August 1992. He had a brief loan spell at Tottenham in the summer of 1995, featuring for them in the InterToto Cup, before moving to Barnet.

Pardew moved into management with Reading, first as caretaker manager in March 1998 before landing the job permanently a year later after the departure of Tommy Burns. Having lost the 2001 Second Division Play-Off Final, Pardew took Reading up automatically the following season and followed that up with another play-off position finish in the First Division in 2003.

Following the sacking of Glenn Roeder in August 2003, West Ham courted Pardew's services but were given short shrift by Reading chairman John Madejski who, when Pardew resigned his position, enforced a period of gardening leave on his former employee. With Trevor Brooking steering the ship capably in a caretaker role, the 42-year-old Pardew eventually became West Ham's tenth permanent manager in October 2003. He drew his first game at home 1-1 against Nottingham Forest, with Jermain Defoe's header equalising Andy Reid's long-range effort. He had to wait until his eighth game in all competitions for his first win, which arrived on 29th November 2003 against Wigan who were thrashed 4-0. An impressive comeback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 against Sunderland a month later kept the Hammers' promotion push alive.

Pardew lost Defoe to Tottenham in January 2004 but ensured Bobby Zamora came to the Boleyn as part of the deal. Zamora joined fellow Pardew signings Hayden Mullins, Brian Deane and Harewood in east London, while three new faces would arrive from Wimbledon in the shape of Nigel Reo-Coker, Adam Nowland and Jobi McAnuff. Andy Melville arrived from Premier League Fuham, with Ian Pearce moving to Craven Cottage. England goalkeeper David James departed for Manchester City.

Pardew's men dumped Premier League Wolves out of the FA Cup at Molineux in the fourth round courtesy of goals from Deane, Harewood and David Connolly but would be defeated in a fifth round replay by Fulham. The Irons finished fourth in the First Division, 12 points behind the automatic promotion places, but would defeat Ipswich in the Play-Off Semi-Final second leg at a raucous, rocking, revitalised Upton Park – Matthew Etherington and Christian Dailly scoring the goals on a night few who were there will ever forget. Pardew's interest in the psychology of the crowd played a part in building the atmosphere before kick-off. After such a wonderful display against Ipswich, the Play-Off Final was a damp squib, Crystal Palace defeating the Hammers 1-0 in Cardiff.

The Hammers started 2004/05 in the newly-named Championship with England international Teddy Sheringham added to their ranks but Michael Carrick was to move to Tottenham. Jimmy Walker, Malky Mackay, Chris Powell, Luke Chadwick, Shaun Newton, Carl Fletcher, Gavin Williams and Sergei Rebrov also joined the club that season. Pardew also put his faith in youth, handing a debut to a young Mark Noble and finishing the campaign with Academy products Anton Ferdinand and Elliott Ward as his first-choice centre-back pairing.

The Hammers endured a difficult campaign, although along the way they won at eventual title winners Sunderland through Harewood and Sheringham strikes and also tore up Ipswich's unbeaten home record on New Year's Day, Harewood again scoring alongside Etherington. Premier League Norwich were also knocked out of the FA Cup in the third round before Sheffield United defeated the Irons on penalties in the next round. West Ham sneaked into the Play-Offs with a final-day win at Watford, ending the season in sixth place just ahead of Pardew's former club Reading. A Zamora-inspired 2-0 win at Ipswich in the second leg of the Play-Off Semi-Final ensured a 4-2 aggregate triumph and the Hammers weren't to be denied a second time, securing promotion in Cardiff with a 1-0 win over Preston with Zamora notching the winner.

A ninth-placed Premier League season followed, Pardew's boys starting with a 3-1 comeback win at home against Blackburn before Aston Villa were downed by a Harewood hat-trick. New signings Roy Carroll, the returning Shaka Hislop, Danny Gabbidon, Paul Konchesky and Yossi Benayoun were settling in nicely, Benayoun rounding off the aforementioned win over Villa with the fourth goal in a 4-0 win. Pardew again showed his eye for a goalscorer by breaking the club's transfer record to sign Dean Ashton in January 2006 and the Hammers enjoyed a run to the FA Cup Final for the first time in 26 years, beating Norwich, Blackburn, Bolton, Manchester City and Middlesbrough along the way before Liverpool agonisingly defeated the Hammers on penalties in Cardiff. League wins at Highbury and against Tottenham to deny Spurs a place in the Champions League (helped in some small part by a dodgy lasagne) made 2005/06 a season to remember. Pardew was mere minutes away from lifting the FA Cup which had also eluded him as a Crystal Palace player in 1990.

The summer of 2006 saw quantity but a lack of quality arrive at the club with Tyrone Mears, Jonathan Spector and John Paintsil all signed to contest the right-back spot. Rob Green was an inspired signing in goal, George McCartney and Carlton Cole would serve the club well and Lee Bowyer added experience in midfield. The astonishing signings of Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez, alongside a takeover of the club by Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson and Eggert Magnusson, destabilised the club however. The Hammers went seven games without a goal and 11 without a win in all competitions, being knocked out of the UEFA Cup by Palermo and the League Cup by lowly Chesterfield. The crowd showed their support for the manager by chanting 'Alan Pardew's Claret and Blue Army' before a 2-1 win over Blackburn, while a late 1-0 win over Arsenal in November 2006 saw Pards and Arsene Wenger have a much-publicised spat on the touchline.

Pardew was sacked during the week after a 4-0 defeat at Sam Allardyce's Bolton on 9th December 2006. He was replaced by former Hammer Alan Curbishley. Pardew was appointed manager of former club Charlton on Christmas Eve but, despite a 4-0 win over Curbishley's West Ham in February 2007, could not keep the Addicks in the top flight. He went on to manage Southampton before making a Premier League return at Newcastle in December 2010 at the age of 49, replacing former Hammer Chris Hughton. His new side beat Liverpool 3-1 at St James' Park in his first game and, a month later, defeated the Hammers 5-0 on Tyneside. He led them to a 12th placed finish, while Avram Grant's West Ham would be relegated. Pardew made impressive progress with the Magpies, securing a fifth-placed finish in 2011/12 and winning the Premier League Manager of the Season Award and the League Managers' Association Manager of the Year Award.

Newcastle slumped to 16th the following season but improved to finish tenth in 2013/14. The Magpies made a difficult start to 2014/15 but, despite fan protests, Pardew led the club to six consecutive victories before deciding to move to former club Crystal Palace. Newcastle would be relegated the following season, while the Eagles were safe in 15th and made the FA Cup Final, which Pardew would again lose. Now 56, and having left Selhurst Park last season, Pardew has most recently been working in punditry.

Referee

Saturday's referee will be Neil Swarbrick. The Lancashire-based official took charge of two of West Ham United's highlights from 2013/14, the 0-0 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and the 2-1 League Cup quarter-final victory against Tottenham at White Hart Lane. He also officiated in two league matches involving the Hammers in 2012/13, those being the 4-1 home win over Southampton and the 3-0 defeat at Sunderland. He was the man in the middle for the controversy-laden 2-1 home defeat to Arsenal in December 2014, disallowing Alex Song's volley from distance for offside, awarding the Gunners a penalty for a Winston Reid foul on Santi Cazorla and failing to award the Hammers an injury-time penalty for a clear tug on Morgan Amalfitano. Swarbrick was also the referee for the FA Cup penalty-shoot-out triumph over Everton in January 2015, sending off Aiden McGeady in the process.

Swarbrick's only appointments involving the Hammers in 2015/16 were for our two trips to the North East; our 2-2 draw at Sunderland in October 2015, when he sent off Jeremain Lens, and our last visit to St James' Park, the 2-1 defeat at Newcastle in January 2016. Two of his three Hammers matches last season saw our best two goals of the season – Dimitri Payet's stunning solo effort in the 1-1 home draw with Middlesbrough in October and Andy Carroll's scintillating scissor kick in the 3-0 home win over Crystal Palace in January. His most recent West Ham appointment was our 4-0 home defeat to Liverpool in May.

Possible line-ups

Newcastle United are set to be without Florian Lejeune and Paul Dummett for the visit of the Hammers while Jonjo Shelvey is suspended. DeAndre Yedlin, Rolando Aarons and Dwight Gayle are expected to be fit. Newcastle have kept three clean sheets in the Hammers' last five trips to St James' Park.

West Ham United will again be without the suspended Marko Arnautovic and the injured Winston Reid but Manuel Lanzini and Andy Carroll could return, although the bench is a likely starting point for both. James Collins' Man of the Match performance at Cheltenham could see him in line for a Premier League return, while Diafra Sakho's goal and assist at Whaddon Road sees him also pushing for a start. The Hammers have not won away at Newcastle since November 2012.

Possible Newcastle United XI: Elliot; Manquillo, Lascelles, Clark, Mbemba; Merino, Diame; Atsu, Murphy, Ritchie; Joselu.

Possible West Ham United XI: Hart; Zabaleta, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell; Rice, Noble; Antonio, Sakho, Ayew; Chicharito.

Enjoy the game – Come On You Irons!

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