Daily WHUFC News - 23rd September 2017

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

West Ham United face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday afternoon's early Premier
League kick-off, with the memories of last season's win under the lights
still with the supporters.

Check below for all the information you could need ahead of this weekend's
match with Spurs - including team news, recent records and how to follow the
game.

Where and when?

West Ham United v Tottenham Hotspur will be played at the London Stadium in
Stratford on Saturday 23 September, with kick-off at 12:30 BST.

How to follow:

Saturday's match with Tottenham has been selected for television by Sky
Sports and can be viewed on Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage
beginning at 11:30 BST.

You can also 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!

Audio coverage will also be provided by BBC Radio 5 Live.

Team news:

Slaven Bilic has confirmed that Manuel Lanzini and Pedro Obiang, who
suffered a slight knock vs West From will miss the game due to injury. Mark
Noble has come through the Bolton Wanderers game okay and could therefore
return to the league side.

James Collins and Edimilson Fernandes are both still out, but Marko
Arnautovic could make his home league debut for the Irons.

Tottenham are without three first team players in Danny Rose, Erik Lamela
and Victor Wanyama.

Match officials:

Referee: Michael Oliver
Assistant Referees: Simon Bennett & Stuart Burt
Fourth Official: Andre Marriner

Meet the opposition:

Despite not splashing as much cash as their fellow rivals, Tottenham have
managed to maintain a title challenge in each of the last two seasons.

Ultimately Mauricio Pochettino's side has fallen short in their quest for
Premier League glory but it can't be denied that there has been significant
improvement in their team over the last few seasons.

Once considered the one of the best in the rest, Spurs are now embedded in
the top group of Premier League teams and always represent a difficult test
for the Hammers.

Player to watch:

Having missed the win over Huddersfield and draw with West Brom due to
injury, captain Mark Noble returned to the starting XI in the midweek
Carabao Cup clash with Bolton Wanderers, and could do so again on Saturday.

Noble will recall scoring a fabulous goal against Spurs in 2007 and has
played a crucial role in some huge wins over the north London side in the
last decade.

In a London derby like this, the experience and maturity of our midfield
captain could prove crucial.

Head-to-head:

West Ham United and Tottenham is always a mouth-watering and competitive
fixture.

The Irons bested Spurs last time out at the London Stadium, with a goal from
Manuel Lanzini all but ending the north London sides' chances of winning the
Premier League title.

A late penalty gave Tottenham the win in the fixture before, but the Hammers
have claimed wins in their last two home games against Mauricio Pochettino's
side. Michail Antonio's finish earned West Ham the win in our final match
against Tottenham at the Boleyn Ground.

Last five meetings:

West Ham United 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, May 5 2017
Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 West Ham United, Premier League, November 19 2016
West Ham United 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, March 2 2016
Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 West Ham United, Premier League, November 22 2015
Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 West Ham United, Premier League, February 22 2015

How to get there:

Supporters are advised that Pudding Mill Lane station will be closed for
maintenance on Saturday 23rd September and will therefore not be available
for use.

There are three other train stations that supporters are recommended to
utilise to reach the London Stadium.

Stratford Station makes use of the Central and Jubilee lines as well as the
DLR, Overground and TfL Rail.

Stratford International also uses the DLR line and National Rail, while
Hackney Wick makes use of the London Overground.

Further information

Ahead of Saturday's London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham
supporters are advised to arrive an hour before kick-off and take note of
the stadium entry information below:

You will only be able to enter the turnstile listed on your Season Ticket
card or match ticket. Claret Members will need to enter the turnstile listed
on their ticket confirmation email.
Searches will continue to take place on the bridges before the stadium
island
Supporters won't be admitted in to the Stadium with any prohibited items,
which are listed here.
To further reduce queuing times at the search checkpoints, it is recommended
that supporters access the stadium island via the bridges in closest
proximity to their respective turnstile entrance, as listed below. See our
stadium map above for an illustration of the bridge numbers.
Fans using entrances A,B and C are recommended to use Bridge 3. For
turnstiles E, F and G, Bridge 5 is suggested. Supporters using H and J
should use Bridge 1 while A, J and K turnstiles are best served by Bridge 2.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Haksabanovic hoping for more Hammers chances
WHUFC.com

Sead Haksabanovic is softly spoken off the pitch, but the talented teenager
is determined to make plenty of noise on it. The 18-year-old attacking
midfielder made an exciting debut for West Ham United in the 3-0 Carabao Cup
third-round win over Bolton Wanderers. The Montenegro international caught
the eye with his pace, technical ability, incisive link-up play and
willingness to take on his man and, now he has had a taste of first-team
football, Haksabanovic wants some more. "I'm glad that I made my debut," he
confirmed. "I was a little bit nervous at first but I think the team took
care of me. "My first experience of English football was good. This is a big
club and I want to do well, but I felt good during and after the game, for
sure. I just need to keep on working hard like I'm doing now and hopefully I
will take a place in the team soon. "The crowd was crazy. I'd never played
before in front of such a large crowd. I felt good because I had them behind
me."

While the 35,000-strong crowd gave Haksabanovic a warm welcome to the West
Ham family, his parents were unable to join the applause due to an
unfortunate piece of scheduling. "My Mum and Dad were here for four days
over the weekend, but they flew home on Tuesday morning because they didn't
know I would be involved in the game!" he said, with a wry smile. "I spoke
to them after the game on the phone, though, and they were very proud."

Haksabanovic may be young, but he already had 70 senior games under his belt
for Swedish club Halmstads BK before joining the Hammers in August. And that
experience shone through as the Hyltebruk-born player produced a performance
full of confidence and purpose on his first appearance in Claret and Blue.
The youngster has settled quickly into life in London, is improving his
English on a daily basis and has been warmly welcomed into the first-team
squad. For all those reasons, Haksabanovic was fully prepared for his West
Ham bow. "I found out on Monday after training that I was playing and I
couldn't sleep that night!" he smiled, before explaining: "I'm only joking,
I slept good because I was looking forward to playing!" "I felt ready. I
have been training with the team a lot and am becoming a man and a member of
the squad now. "I enjoyed the game. I had a chance to express myself and
felt involved in the game, especially in the first half. I had a shot which
was quite close, too. I hope to play again soon."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Antonio's pace is a real threat' - Clive Allen looks at West Ham United v
Tottenham
WHUFC.com

West Ham United play London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday afternoon
in a mouthwatering encounter at the London Stadium. Former Hammer Clive
Allen, who also played for Spurs in the 1980s, has looked at the key battles
going into this contest - and we've got the statistics to back them up!

'Relish the derby fire'

For most supporters, West Ham United v Tottenham is the biggest match of the
season. It's the first game that many look for when the fixture calendar is
released in the summer. Recent form in these games bodes well for the
Hammers too. The Irons have won three of their last four home matches
against Spurs, which will only increase the anticipation for Saturday's
match. Allen believes that the fans' excitement for the contest rubs off on
the players and that they too will be looking forward to the London derby.
"It's a game that the players look forward to," Allen told whufc.com: "I
always looked forward to London derbies myself. When the fixture dates came
out, you knew they were games that the players and the fans would look for
and look forward to." With home form against Spurs decent in the last few
years, Allen also feels that Slaven Bilic's side will be confident heading
into this match. He added: "I think in the last couple of years West Ham
have been excellent in this fixture, particular in the home ones where they
got good results. I think the players will be confident going into the game,
knowing what they've done in the last couple of years."

'Antonio's pace is a real threat'

"I've been very impressed with Antonio," Allen purred: "He had a fantastic
season last year and he's started this campaign well." The former forward's
assessment is spot on. Antonio has been a consistent performer for West Ham
since his move from Nottingham Forest in 2015, and Spurs have been one of
the No30's favourite opponents. Antonio has netted in two of his last three
matches against the north London side, including the only goal in our final
match against Spurs at the Boleyn Ground in 2016. With West Ham playing a
three-man defence, Antonio's role in the front line has become more fluid,
but Allen reckons the 27-year-old is most comfortable on the right-flank,
where his speed and strength can cause the most issues. Allen said: "His
pace and power is always a threat to defences. He can play anywhere across
the front line. "I think he feels most comfortable coming off the right
side. He is really is difficult to handle."

'Beware of Harry Kane'

In Tottenham's team there is an obvious goal-threat in Harry Kane. The
striker has been one of Europe's most consistent scorers in the last few
seasons and, as West Ham fans will know only too well, his record against
the Irons is pretty good. The England international has five goals in just
six games against the Irons, and Allen says that West Ham's defenders will
need to be at their very best to stop Kane from continuing his excellent
run. "Everyone will be paying great attention to Harry Kane," Allen said:
"He's been so consistent over the last three years in terms of goalscoring.
"The defence will have to keep him completely nailed down, especially
anywhere in and around the box. With his shooting accuracy and power you
also have to close him down very quickly. It's important to make sure he
doesn't get face on to goal too." "He's a very good player and West Ham's
defenders will need to be at the top of their game." Although Kane's record
against the Irons is impressive, Slaven Bilic's side can take solace in the
fact that all of those goals have come at White Hart Lane, meaning that the
forward is yet to score against West Ham away from home.

'Keep the ball from Tottenham's biggest threats'

Of course, Kane isn't Tottenham's only dangerous player. The whole squad is
filled with attacking threats that could cause the West Ham defence problems
on Saturday. Already this season Spurs have boasted the most shots in the
league with 105, and also created the most chances with 74. The team is
packed with goalscoring options. "There's a number that have started the
season well," Allen conceded: "Dele Alli's partnership with Kane is lethal.
Christian Eriksen is also very dangerous when he has the ball." The former
Hammer says the key to winning on Saturday will come from keeping the ball
away from these attack-minded players. "West Ham have to deny these players
service. If you can stop the ball getting to them then you nullify
Tottenham's biggest threats. Don't allow Spurs to get the ball into the
likes of Alli and Erkisen, and keep him out of the game."

'Goals guaranteed?'

Typically, West Ham v Tottenham is always an entertaining fixture. The roar
of the crowd and the spirit of the London derby tends to guarantee a
thrilling match.
The two sides have played 32 matches against each other since 2000, and only
two of those have been goalless draws, highlighting just how competitive
these games are. Allen is expecting more of the same come Saturday but has
warned West Ham that Spurs will be up for the match at the London Stadium
Allen concluded: "I'm expecting a very open game. Both teams will go for the
victory. "Spurs have showed that they are probably more comfortable away
from home, away from the pressure of playing at Wembley. I think it could be
a really exciting London derby, with plenty of goals."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Betway Insider's View of the Opposition: Tottenham Hotspur
WHUFC.com

West Ham have the opportunity to derail Tottenham's title ambitions for the
third successive season. That might seem a little premature in September,
but several disappointing results means Mauricio Pochettino's side are
already five points off the pace. Recent history is not on their side in
this fixture, either. In March 2016, West Ham produced a brilliant
performance at the Boleyn Ground to clinch a 1-0 victory and prevent the
visitors from leapfrogging Leicester City at the top of the table. Just over
12 months later, with Spurs chasing Chelsea, the Hammers achieved an
identical result, this time at the London Stadium. Both of those victories
were built on solid five-man defences, a system that Slaven Bilic has
returned to in recent weeks, achieving consecutive clean sheets against
Huddersfield and West Brom respectively. It is also a system that Spurs
still struggle to break down.

Against Swansea last weekend, Pochettino's side enjoyed 75 per cent
possession – their highest in a Premier League match since Opta began
recording this data in 2003-04. That possession was rarely converted into
clear-cut chances, however, due to the Swans' stifling the central areas
that Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Christen Eriksen love to operate in, which
resulted in just eight of their 26 shots hitting the target. At the other
end of the pitch, Spurs' defence remains one of the strongest in the
division, with the speed of Davinson Sanchez helping their high defensive
line. Sanchez, however, has never faced a striker with the power and aerial
prowess of Andy Carroll, who is nearing full fitness.

Saturday's game is a massive test for him.

KEY NUMBERS

0 – Joe Hart hasn't conceded in either of his last two appearances.

2 – West Ham's last two home games v Spurs have been 1-0 wins.

3 – Spurs haven't won at West Ham in more than three years.

RECOMMENDED BETS

West Ham to keep a clean sheet – 9/2

West Ham to win 1-0 – 12/1

Andy Carroll to score – 23/10

VISIT blog.betway.com to read the Betway Insider's 'View of the Opposition'
for every West Ham home and away match.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Martinez: We're ready to bounce back at Sunderland
WHUFC.com

Toni Martinez says his West Ham United U23 side are desperate to get back to
winning ways when they travel to Sunderland in Premier League 2 on Sunday.
The Hammers were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool at Dagenham and Redbridge's
Chigwell Construction Stadium in their last match, while Leicester City were
3-1 winners over Terry Westley's men the week before. Martinez scored the
visitors' goal at the King Power Stadium almost a fortnight ago but could
not get on the scoresheet when the Reds travelled down, having a penalty
saved in the first half. West Ham have a long trip to the north east ahead
of them before Sunday's clash and the Spaniard claimed everyone is ready to
bounce back against the Black Cats. "Of course we want to get a better
result after two defeats," the 20-year-old said. "We need to get back on
that winning pathway again. "I think in the game on Monday, Liverpool were
better than us in several situations. They were on top of us almost the
whole game and it made things difficult. "To win the game would have been
difficult because of the way they played. But it's very important for us to
keep working hard and never lose the faith, and that's what we'll do when we
play Sunderland."

The Hammers are without a win in their last three matches, their form
tailing off after a blistering start to life in Division 1 after a promotion
campaign last year.
But despite the recent struggles, Martinez already has four goals in seven
matches despite a penalty miss on Monday "I'm not frustrated about not score
a goal, but I am with the fact that we couldn't show a better level on this
game," he accessed. "To miss a penalty never is good, but we must think
always collectively rather than individually. "The good thing is that I am
having chances to score, and that reflects on the work of everyone in the
team. "That means they are working hard to create chances and also that I
work hard to get chances and to score."

The Hammers travel to Eppleton Colliery Welfare on Sunday to face
Sunderland, who have are also looking to get back on the winning trail after
four Premier League two matches in a row without three points.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Date set for Spurs Carabao Cup tie
WHUFC.com

West Ham United will travel to Tottenham Hotspur for their Carabao Cup
fourth round tie on Wednesday 25 October, with kick-off at 8pm. The Hammers
were drawn against their north London rivals for the last-16 tie after they
defeated Bolton Wanderers and Tottenham saw off Barnsley in midweek. The
fourth round tie will see West Ham head to Wembley for the first time since
their Championship Play-Off final victory against Blackpool in 2012. West
Ham and Tottenham have met five times previously in the League Cup. West Ham
prevailed in 1966 and 2013, while Spurs came out on top in 1975, 1987 and
2003.

Ticket details will be confirmed in due course and published on whufc.com

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chicharito: I don't just live for goals
WHUFC.com

Chicharito is relishing the experience of his first London derby when
Tottenham Hotspur head to London Stadium on Saturday and says taking maximum
points would mean far more to him than finding the net. The Mexican has two
goals from his first five Premier League games for the Hammers and has been
operating as a wide-forward in recent weeks, away from his usual central
station. Chicharito says his position does not matter to him, as doing his
bit for the team is what gives him most pleasure – and he knows what victory
against Spurs would mean to the Hammers fans. "My life doesn't revolve
around goals," the No17 said. "I like to play football, I like to be on that
pitch, if I play left winger, left midfielder, even left back, centre
forward, wherever. "I like to grow and I like to challenge myself, I like to
always push myself to keep on growing, to adapt to any circumstances. I just
love to play football. "Of course, who wouldn't like to score a goal? Even
the 'keepers would like it; the goal is the culmination of everything. "But
I love playing football, improving in many technical, tactical, mental
aspects, whatever. So if I get to score a goal I would be very happy, but
not so much if it's not useful. "It's all about the group, the player on
your left depends on you and you depend on the one on your right, it's a
chain, this is a team sport and you have to be at your best to be able to
support your team."

The Mexican striker has, of course, been involved in derbies from
Guadalajara to Manchester, and Madrid to North Rhine-Westphalia during his
career, but will play in his first cross-capital clash at the weekend. The
Hammers are protecting a three-match unbeaten run and Chicharito is
determined to extend that – and repeat last season's memorable victory
against their local rivals at London Stadium. "I think derbies are big for
everyone and obviously they have a different flavour, especially for the
fans," the No17 explained. "I was brought up as a football player that a
derby is a special match, a very nice one, but I always try to play as if
all matches were like that. We shouldn't play differently in only one or
two matches a year, you have to play like that in all 38 matches in the
league "Obviously derbies have a different feeling, I think it's a bit more
about the environment, but I personally always want to play as if every
match were my last, as if it were my last chance and give my all, to give
back the trust that my coach, my teammates and all the fans had in me."

Chicharito may be searching for his first career goal against Tottenham, but
his record against the north Londoners is impressive nevertheless having
only tasted defeat twice in eight starts. The 29-year-old said: "If I score
on Saturday it will the first one against Spurs, but as far as I recall my
results have been more positive than negative against Tottenham. "I've only
had two defeats, the others have been victories and draws, with United, and
also in the Champions League [with Bayer Leverkusen] we drew at home and
beat them at Wembley last season."

Javier Hernandez, alongside fellow Mexican international Miguel Layun has
launched the #YoXMexico fund to aid the people who were affected by the
recent earthquakes in Mexico. West Ham have joined the effort by organising
an auction of the shirts our players will wear in Saturday's derby. If you
want to participate, you can do so here officialwesthamauction.com or donate
directly to #YoXMexico at www.youcaring.com/YoXMex.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MARK WARD: I DON'T SIT ON THE FENCE.
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 22 SEPTEMBER 2017 AT 4:34PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Mark Ward @Mark7Ward

It's great to be back at the West Ham Way Pre match event this Saturday were
I will be on the other side answering the questions. I am looking forward to
it as all who know me from previous events know I won't sit on the fence and
have an opinion that not all will agree with but that's what the game is all
about. All who attend will all have one thing in common however and that is
to hope to see the Hammers pick up 3 points v the enemy Spurs.

We have some great legends lined up for the rest of the season and even
though it's a very early start at 8.30am it will be a great start before the
kick off at 12.30 pm.

Things are looking up after a win and an away draw, as well as a 3-0 win
mid-week so after the poor start if we spank Spurs everything will be
forgotten after the three defeats early doors. So come on you true Hammers
fans East Ham Working Man's Club Sat be there and ask Wardy any question and
I will give you a straight answer. There are still tickets available and you
can buy them on the door.

COYI

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham's Christian Eriksen will punish West Ham if players lose focus for
a second, warns Slaven Bilic
SLAVEN BILIC
ES Sport

We will have to be at our best — and our most concentrated — if we are going
to do well against Spurs on Saturday. They have many excellent players but
the one who is maybe the unsung hero is Christian Eriksen. I don't want to
say he is under-rated because everyone in Europe is aware of the talent
that he possesses. Apart from being a vital link in their team, he is also
making clever little moves into pockets of space or into the box. He is
clinical in those situations. If you ball watch for a second or two, he is
gone. He has wonderful movement with or without the ball. We have to
concentrate on our tasks for the whole 90 minutes tomorrow, especially in
the middle of the park, and if they find that space, we need to squeeze
them. Even if we do that, they will have chances but if they do, then you
expect the block or a goalkeeper's save. We know we realistically cannot
control the whole pitch but we want to send them into areas where we don't
mind them playing. The more you do that, the better chance we have. We also
have to be good when we are on the ball. You have to push them back, break
their rhythm. The key for us is to steal the ball early from them and then
keep it — make them nervous.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham: Shirt auction to aid Mexican earthquake relief
BBC.co.uk

West Ham will auction shirts worn in this weekend's London derby to raise
money in aid of the Mexican earthquake. Mexican striker Javier Hernandez,
29, is leading the #YoXMexico initiative alongside international team-mate
Miguel Layun. The Hammers will double the proceeds, which will help deliver
food and supplies to victims of the disaster. "Seeing the suffering of our
compatriots has been very painful," said Hernandez. The 7.1-magnitude
earthquake struck southern Mexico on Tuesday, leaving thousands of families
homeless and killing 273 people. "We know that many see us as a source of
inspiration, but in this case, what has inspired us is to see millions of
Mexicans take to the streets and to lend a hand without asking for anything
in return," Hernandez said. "We hope, with this initiative, to help those
who need it and motivate more people to do it with us. "Miguel and I are
very grateful to have the backing of everyone at West Ham United and all of
its supporters at this difficult time for our country. "It is a fantastic
gesture and we hope it can help us raise funds that will make a difference
in Mexico."

West Ham host Tottenham at London Stadium on Saturday (12:30 BST) and a
number of shirts are already available, with Hernandez's No 17 currently
reaching a bid of £2,501.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Tottenham preview: Ben Davies expected to return for Spurs
Last Updated: 22/09/17 10:47am
SSN

West Ham host Tottenham in a crackerjack of a London derby, live on Sky
Sports Premier League on Saturday lunchtime. There is little love lost
between the rivals - a dislike which was only further enhanced by West Ham's
1-0 victory over Spurs last season which ended their Premier League title
challenge. In fact, the Hammers have defeated Tottenham 14 times in the
Premier League; their highest tally of wins against a single opponent in the
competition. They come into this clash as underdogs though against a strong
travelling Spurs side, who know a win would equal a club record of five
successive Premier League away wins. This included a richly impressive 3-0
win over Everton in their previous away game, which took their tally to 18
goals in their last four away league games on the road.

Team news

West Ham midfielders Manuel Lanzini and Pedro Obiang will miss the visit of
Tottenham. Lanzini resumed training on Thursday after a knee injury but will
not be risked and Obiang picked up a knock against West Brom last weekend.
Defender James Collins is the only other absentee with an ankle problem.

Tottenham defender Ben Davies has shaken off an ankle injury in time for
Saturday's game. Davies is expected to return along with Harry Kane,
Christian Eriksen, Hugo Lloris and Toby Alderweireld, who were all rested
for the Carabao Cup win over Barnsley on Tuesday. Danny Rose and Victor
Wanyama, however, are both out with knee injuries while Erik Lamela is still
recovering from a hip problem.

Match stats

Tottenham have lost three of their last four Premier League trips to West
Ham (W1 D0 L3) and have failed to score in each of these three defeats. The
Hammers won their last home game in the Premier League (2-0 vs Huddersfield)
- only on one previous occasion have they sealed successive home wins at the
London Stadium; December 2016. Tottenham have lost their last two London
derbies in the Premier League (0-1 v West Ham in May & 1-2 v Chelsea in
August) - they haven't lost three in a row in the league since August 2005.

Spurs are looking to win their opening three away games in a league season
for the first time since 1991-92.

Since the start of 2015-16, Spurs have won the most matches (47) and points
(164) in the Premier League.

Overall, Kane has scored 19 goals in 28 Premier League London derbies for
Tottenham Hotspur.

Of players to have scored at least 10 Premier League London derby goals,
only Thierry Henry (114 mins) has a better average minutes per goal ratio in
these fixtures than Harry Kane (120 mins).

Lanzini has scored nine of his 14 Premier League goals against London clubs
- including three in his last four appearances against Spurs in the
competition.

Despite playing his final Premier League game for West Ham on January 2nd
2017, no Hammers' player has assisted (6) or created as many goalscoring
chances (74) as Dimitri Payet since the start of 2016-17 in the competition.


Merson's prediction

West Ham have turned a corner after good performances against Huddersfield
and West Brom but I can't look past Tottenham here. They have been very good
away from home - what they did at Everton was brilliant - and I can see them
scoring three again. The Hammers were good against Huddersfield and solid at
The Hawthorns but Tottenham are a cut above both. Spurs need to sort out
their Wembley problem because it will ruin their Premier League chances if
they aren't careful.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 (Sky Bet odds 11/1)

Betting

Tottenham are Sky Bet's 8/13 favourites for the victory with West Ham up
against odds of 17/4, while the draw is priced at 3/1. Mauricio Pochettino's
men were nudged out from 14/1 to 16/1 for the title following their Swansea
stalemate, while the Hammers are currently 4/1 to face the drop.

Kane is 5/2 to extend his excellent London derby record by opening the
scoring, while Javier Hernandez is considered the hosts' main threat at 13/2
in the first goalscorer betting.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Don't make me one pizza, make me 10!' - Slaven Bilic demands more from West
Ham star Marko Arnautovic
SLAVEN BILIC
ES Sport

I made my debut for West Ham at Tottenham in February 1996 so I knew from
that very first game in English football just what this derby means. We won
that game 1-0, the same scoreline as last season at the London Stadium. The
fans still talk about that Friday night last May and there is no need to
remind the players about the importance of the occasion. There is also no
need to emphasize the all-round ability of this Spurs team, other than to
say I believe they play the most attractive football in the Premier League.
We go into tomorrow's match with confidence growing all the time. I will
admit it was at a 'low' after losing the first three Premier League matches
and conceding too many goals. That had to change — and it has. We've changed
the system a little, the players have responded magnificently and — if you
count the 3-0 Carabao Cup win over Bolton on Tuesday, we've kept three clean
sheets, won two and drawn one. We made 10 changes for that match but still
put out a very strong side. We have a minimum of two players for every
position now and that's something for which every Premier League club
strives.
Injuries can, of course, change all that and I can still remember a time
last season when we didn't have one striker, let alone four, because we had
so many players out. On Tuesday I wanted the players to put pressure on me
regarding selection — and they did. Marko Arnautovic was named the man of
the match and I am expecting big things of him going forward. Marko is
Austrian but he has a Serbian father and he has the mentality of that
country. I am a Croatian and the mentality — and the language — is similar.
That, I believe, will be a big help to both of us. It has helped already
because I know his personality and myself and my staff have talked with him.
We have told him we really want him to push the boundaries. Don't get me
wrong, we are not talking about a prospect here. He is an established
Premier League player who has been here for four seasons — and we have him
here now. His potential is enormous but I want him to show that consistency,
not to get satisfied with doing something on the pitch and then relaxing. I
want him to show that same ability again and again. He has pace, it is
impossible to get the ball from him, he has great skill and vision. All the
ingredients are there so Marko, don't make me one pizza, make me 10. I also
want to mention Declan Rice, who impressed me so much at the back. He has
got enough of everything and he's still only 18! He has enough pace, enough
skill, enough strength, he's good in the air but what really impresses me is
his focus. He doesn't lose that for a single moment, not even in training.
To have that is a real virtue and I don't see that too many times in such a
young player. With some players, you tell them all the time to be focused
and they say, "Yes, yes" but somehow they still lose it. He doesn't. He
knows exactly what he has to do.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hernandez: I'll play left back if needed
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 22nd September 2017
By: Staff Writer

Javier Hernandez has had his say in the ongoing row regarding his playing
position. The Mexican international has been shunted out to the left side of
a front three in West Ham's most recent outings as Slaven Bilic seeks to
accomodate Andy Carroll into his team. And despite having appeared
frustrated in his new role at times, Hernandez told the club's website that
he would be happy to play anywhere. I don't live to score goals, I just like
playing football and being on the pitch," he said. "Whether I play left
wing, left midfield, left back, centre forward... wherever. "I like to grow,
I like to challenge myself; I like to push myself to keep on growing. To
adapt to any situation. I just love playing football. "This is a team sport
and you have to give 100 per cent. To be at your best and in the best
condition to help and support your team mates."
The 29-year-old also revealed that he was looking forward to playing in his
first London derby - which, incidentally is the 129th competitive meeting
between the two clubs. "Derbies are big for everyone and obviously they have
a different flavour, especially for the fans," he added. "I've played in
Chivas v America, Barca v Madrid, Mexico v USA and Leverkusen v Cologne.
Derbies have a different feeling - but personally, I play every match as if
it was my last, like a Derby!"

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wembley Cup date confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 22nd September 2017
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United will face Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley on Wednesday, 25
October. The Carabao Cup fourth round tie - West Ham's first trip to Wembley
since beating Blackpool in the 2012 play-off Final - will also be broadcast
live on TV by Sky Sports. The two London rivals were drawn first out of the
hat in Wednesday evening's draw. Ticket details and confirmation of West
Ham's allocation will be confirmed soon.

The two clubs have met in the League Cup eight times previously, with each
team having won three times...

2013/14: Tottenham 1-2 West Ham Utd (Jarvis, Maiga)
2003/04: Tottenham 1-0 West Ham Utd
1986/87: Tottenham 5-0 West Ham Utd
1986/87: West Ham Utd 1-1 Tottenham (Cottee)
1980/81: West Ham Utd 1-0 Tottenham (Cross)
1975/76: West Ham Utd 0-2 Tottenham
1975/76: Tottenham 0-0 West Ham Utd
1966/67: West Ham Utd 1-0 Tottenham (Hurst)


::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Michail Antonio confident his goalscoring touch will return
Last Updated: 22/09/17 6:30pm
SSN

Tottenham Hotspur will have to watch Michail Antonio closely on Saturday
after the West Ham attacker claimed he is about to embark on a goal rush.
This time last season, Antonio already had five goals to his name. However,
despite impressing since returning from a four-month injury lay-off, he has
not found the back of the opposition net so far this season. The reigning
Hammer of the Year, who suffered a hamstring injury against Swansea in April
which ruled him out for the rest of last season, has scored just once in his
last 17 appearances in all competitions. Ahead of Saturday's clash at home
to Spurs, which is live on Sky Sports Premier League from 11.30am, Antonio
is confident his goalscoring touch will return. "It's been a bit of a rusty
start - I was out for four months, but don't worry, the goals are coming!
I'll catch up," he told Sky Sports. "I love attacking. I love scoring goals
- it's why I play football, but [goal droughts] are part of parcel of the
game. I will be ready and I will start scoring soon."
The 27-year-old has earned himself a cult following among supporters of West
Ham largely due to his powerful performances on the right wing, but also due
to his flamboyant goal celebrations. Antonio has impersonated Homer Simpson,
performed the famous Carlton Banks dance from The Fresh Prince of Bel Air
and dabbled with 'the worm' to rejoice in finding the net over the past
couple of seasons. Although out of practice, he has revealed he has got
something special up his sleeve if he finds the net this weekend. "I've got
something in mind, but I can't share it before a game," he said. "It needs
to be a surprise. A celebration has to include a bit of banter and it must
look good. The worm is an amazing celebration. "I've not had as many
opportunities as I normally do, but I'm working my way back. "I normally
have a knack of being at the right place at the right time, but being out
for four months I've lost that natural ability. I'm getting fitter and I
will get that back. You don't lose that natural ability."

It has been a tough start for West Ham in the Premier League, with Slaven
Bilic's team taking just four points from their first five games. However,
they are unbeaten in their last two matches after victory over Huddersfield
and a stalemate with West Brom. Antonio, who won the man-of-the-match award
with Sky Sports in both matches, thinks the new-look West Ham front-line
which includes Andy Carroll, Javier Hernandez, himself and Marko Arnautovic
are starting to click and is excited regarding their future prospects. "It's
a serious attacking line-up," he said. "When everyone is fit, the gaffer is
going to have a headache because we all feel we deserve to play. It's a good
place to be as you know if you're not playing well, there's someone behind
you who will come in and do a job. It pushes you to make sure you do play
well."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham legend Julian Dicks on HATING Tottenham — and smoking, drinking and
rocking with Slaven Bilic
Hammers hero and now coach would love it if his pal and old room-mate
delivers another win over Spurs this weekend
The Mirror
BYJOHN CROSS
22:30, 22 SEP 2017

There are few characters left in football like Julian Dicks. The West Ham
legend is a key member of the coaching staff but is still not afraid to tell
it as he sees it, as he reminisced about his playing days, his relationship
with Slaven Bilic — and the rivalry with London neighbours, and Saturday's
lunchtime visitors, Spurs. "I hate Tottenham — I'm West Ham, and I don't
like Tottenham," said Dicks, with a menacing grin. "People might have a go
at me, but it's true. You have got ­Birmingham and Villa. You've got
Liverpool and Everton. But West Ham hate Tottenham. It's true to say they
really do. "I'm not sure it's the other way round. But for the supporters
and for me, as a player, I hated Tottenham. Just to beat them is a good
­feeling. "At the end of last season, it killed their title hopes and, if
there's one club we want to stop winning the title, it's Tottenham.
"Hopefully, this will be like the game last season. The crowd will get up
for that one, they will make it rocking. If you do that, you have a chance
of winning the game."
When manager Bilic took over in summer 2015, one of the first phone calls he
made was to Dicks to bring him into his coaching staff. They were great
friends as players at West Ham, and the link ­between club legend and the
supporters was ­important for Bilic. But the days back then were very
different. Despite being on the staff, Dicks is not worried about being
diplomatic as he recalls what he and Bilic got up to as room-mates the night
before an away game. Dicks said: "We got on really well — we both smoked,
both liked heavy music, both liked a drink and we ­became room-mates. "We
got on well, on and off the pitch — I've got stories I can't really tell!
"But, back then, players used to smoke in the hotel. We'd have a bottle of
wine, half-a-bottle of Jack ­Daniel's, we'd listen to Iron Maiden. We had
great times ­together. "When he got the West Ham job, I got a phone call, I
met him in ­London and, a ­couple of days later, we were ­flying out to
Cork. "We've had a ­fantastic ­relationship and I didn't need to think
twice."

Nothing will ever beat his playing days, but Dicks is building his ­coaching
­reputation and earning respect as a vital member of Bilic's team. "I think
some people forget I could also play football, I wasn't just going out
kicking people. I had no problems with my ability – but I used to love
kicking people! Of course, it's gone out of the game now. "I watch games now
and think, 'That's a good tackle'. Then the ref gives a foul and they get
booked. For me, the game has gone too far that way now. "There's no leeway
any more. "There used to be a referee from Bristol, Roger Milford, I said
to him once, 'You're having a f**king ­nightmare'. He turned to me and said,
'You seen your f**king game today?' You used to have a laugh and now you
can't talk to them. "I never wanted to get into coaching or managing. All I
ever wanted to do was to play football. I retired at 29, because of my knee,
and I felt quite bitter. But I worked my way up before coming back to West
Ham."

Dicks admits the move to the ­London Stadium has taken a lot of getting used
to, but the 1-0 win over ­Tottenham in May was a start. "It was one of the
best nights and best atmospheres I've ever ­witnessed and that includes at
Upton Park," he added. "It will take some time to get used to the stadium
and it's been tough at times. "These days, the pressure builds from the fans
and press, and it becomes impossible. "We've ­always battled, and you get
more results doing that than playing pretty football, so if you can mix the
two..."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham news: Slaven Bilic sends warning to Andy Carroll over fitness
SLAVEN BILIC has warned Andy Carroll that this is the season when he has to
stay fit and deliver.
By TONY BANKS
PUBLISHED: 22:30, Fri, Sep 22, 2017
Express.co.uk

West Ham's injury plagued striker has two years left on his contract but if
he is to earn another this is the season his manager believes he has to
shrug off the injury worries and have a consistent campaign on the pitch.
Perhaps for the first time since he joined the club, Carroll, now 28, has
serious competition up front at the London Stadium – with Javier Hernandez,
a fit again Diafro Sakho, Marko Arnautovic and even Michail Antonio all
vying for places in West Ham's attack.
Carroll has started the last two league games for the Hammers and is fit
again after the toe and thigh problems which forced him to miss the start of
the season – just the latest in a series of knocks that have blighted him.
He started only 15 league games last season and in his five years at the
club, he has started only 76.
Bilic believes the Hammers, who have recovered from their dismal start with
a three game unbeaten run going into today's crunch London derby with bitter
rivals Tottenham at the Olympic Stadium, need a fit and firing Carroll if
they are to prosper.
The West Ham manager said: "Andy has got two years left, and this is to be
fair his season to be fit, to stay fit. "If we are talking about his
contract, the question mark about him is his fitness, how much he is
available during the season. "Andy has competition now. I think he likes
that. Last year Sakho was injured. Now we have Chicharito because we didn't
want to stay just with Andy. And it is good to have competition. "I don't
think it's a coincidence that he is fit now. I don't think he was getting
injured because he was sloppy and lazy and he thought 'I have no
competition, I will play anyway'. "I didn't feel that or smell that in one
single moment during those two years. "It wasn't his problem, it was that he
was getting injured. But he is not one of those that slows down because he
feels he is the king. "Some players like competition, even the goalkeepers
who like a No 2 pushing them so both of them progress together. But a lot of
players have to be secure to produce good games. "We are doing things a
little bit different with Andy now – we are not pushing him as soon as he is
back. Two seasons ago or even last season it was always the case, after a
couple of sessions rolling up the sleeves and 100 mph straight away. "This
year, he didn't do a pre-season. It was four weeks before he played, which
definitely helps and we didn't play him in the League Cup. "He doesn't just
come in at ten o' clock now, change and go out. He is there very early. All
those small things really help him."

West Ham last year effectively killed off Tottenham title's hopes with a 1-0
win at the Olympic Stadium in May and the previous season beat them 1-0 at
Upton Park. But Bilic said: "We have played good against them. It is a
special kind of a game for us. We don't hide it, it's a big derby, big game.
"I remember playing against them at Upton Park when we won 1-0 when Michail
Antonio scored from a corner. "It was a top atmosphere at a top ground. Last
season at the Olympic Stadium we were saying there was no way we were going
to get that kind of intimidation. But to be fair it was. I'm sure the
atmosphere is going to be good and it is going to lift us."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
FIVE POINTS ON WEST HAM - WITH JASON BURT OF THE TELEGRAPH
Posted on 22 September 2017 - 14:45
Tottenhamhotspur.com

A regular at Spurs matches in his role as Chief Football Correspondent for
The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph, Jason Burt was also in the
press box for West Ham's recent win against Huddersfield at the London
Stadium. Here, Jason gives his insight into the Hammers for our 'Five
Points' feature...

Jason Burt
Chief Football Correspondent
Daily/Sunday Telegraph

Point 1 - Performance v Huddersfield

Jason: "It wasn't the prettiest performance and the return of Andy Carroll
made them more direct and physical, but in the circumstances that wasn't a
bad thing because they just needed to win the game. It was their first home
game of the season and what you will find with this particular team is they
always respond to adversity. However, they struggle to be as creative as
they need to be without Manuel Lanzini (knee injury) and without him, going
more direct was probably the right thing to do against a Huddersfield team
who were quite disappointing on the night. The big conundrum facing Slaven
Bilic is how to get both Carroll and Javier Hernandez in the same team.
Against Huddersfield, he played Hernandez out wide and it didn't really
work. Hernandez was substituted at 0-0 but it was the right thing to do
because Bilic then brought on wide players and it made a difference.
Ideally, he'd play a 4-3-3 and go with Marko Arnautovic, Michail Antonio and
Hernandez through the middle, but it's difficult to leave out Carroll when
he's fully fit as he's so effective."

Point 2 - Andy Carroll

Jason: "I think he's a good footballer but he's so good in the air, so
strong that there is always the tendency, especially under pressure, to play
it long up to him. He's incredible in the air and that 4-3-3 isn't a bad
system for him, especially with wide players like Antonio. If everyone is
fit, he might not even get into their first 11 and he'd be more effective
coming off the bench – but you play him because we all know that if you hit
the ball in the air, he'll get on the end of it."

Point 3 - Potential tactics

Jason: "I wouldn't be surprised if Bilic went with the same team that
started against Huddersfield. He will be thinking about what Spurs might do
and if he thinks Spurs will stick with 3-4-3, he might match the teams up.
Bilic has used that 3-4-3 when they've been under pressure and needing a
result. The key is Aaron Cresswell, because he gives that width at left
wing-back. Cresswell and Pablo Zabaleta did well as wing-backs against
Huddersfield and you've Winston Reid, James Collins and Jose Fonte as three
strong central defenders. He might think about 3-4-3 again, especially in
the absence of Lanzini."

Point 4 - A neutral's view of West Ham-Spurs

Jason: "I think it's a brilliant game and I wish I was covering it! I was
there last season. It's developed into a real rivalry in recent seasons.
West Ham's win against Spurs last season was their biggest at the London
Stadium. It's the game they looked at and said 'that's what we need to
replicate'. It meant a lot to them to win that game."

Point 5 - Spurs

Jason: "I'm sure the draws have been a bit frustrating and the team has been
a bit unfortunate, the Swansea game almost encapsulated that, Swansea
defended brilliantly but Tottenham should have won. Having said that, I
think you are still playing some great football. Christian Eriksen has been
fantastic, almost under the radar and Harry Kane has been, well, Harry Kane!
He's my favourite striker. I think he's exceptional and if I was to suggest
to any young footballer which player you would look at and say 'that's who
to emulate' I would say Harry Kane. He behaves brilliantly, never reacts on
the pitch, continually looks to improve himself and has an unshakable
determination to be the best, and he has a brilliant attitude. He's a
fantastic example to every young footballer."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham's Carabao Cup clash with West Ham to be televised
The Carabao Cup tie between Spurs and West Ham will be shown live on Sky
Sports
Football London
BYROB GUEST
14:37, 22 SEP 2017

Following Wednesday night's Carabao Cup draw, the date for Spurs' home tie
against West Ham has been revealed. After facing each other at the London
Stadium on Saturday afternoon, the sides will once again meet at Wembley on
Wednesday 25 October. Given the London derby was the tie of the round, it
comes as no surprise to see the match selected for live television coverage
on Sky Sports. The match at Spurs' temporary home will kick off at 8pm.
Spurs progressed through to the fourth round of the competition after Dele
Alli's goal was enough to see off Championship side Barnsley. The Hammers,
who defeated Cheltenham Town 2-0 in the second round, registered a
comfortable 3-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers in east London on Tuesday
night to progress through to the final 16.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauricio Pochettino splashes out £10k on dinner for Tottenham stars before
West Ham clash
MAURICIO POCHETTINO is banking on his hungry Tottenham players sinking their
teeth into West Ham - after dining out with his squad on a night out.
Daily Star
By Ian Baker / Published 22nd September 2017

The Spurs boss treated 50 members of his squad and staff to posh West End
restaurant The Beast earlier this week. Wednesday night's get-together was
an attempt to take their minds off the London derby. But it has left
Pochettino at least £10,000 lighter in his pocket. Spurs stars gorged on
£100-a-head grub including Norwegian crab and Spanish steak. And Pochettino
also paid for £160-a-bottle Argentine wine at the exclusive eatery -
ensuring his players were relaxed ahead of the visit to a ground where their
title hopes were dashed last season. "We had a dinner in a restaurant in
London with all the staff and players that I invited, of course. I paid the
bill at the end!" Pochettino said: "We had a dinner in a restaurant in
London with all the staff and players that I invited, of course. I paid the
bill at the end! "That is true, the one time that I was invited! That is
important. "It is tactics to take all the staff, players and chairman to a
restaurant.
"It is so important, just as it is important to work on the pitch.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'We always want to do it for the fans' - Michail Antonio promises another
big West Ham performance
Antonio believes the Hammers can inflict more misery on Spurs
Football London
BYROB GUEST
09:44, 22 SEP 2017

Michail Antonio is confident that West Ham can extend their impressive home
record against Spurs tomorrow afternoon. After collecting four points from
their last two games in the Premier League, the Hammers will be aiming to
inflict more pain on Mauricio Pochettino's side in east London. Following
two successive 1-0 home wins over the Lilywhites, Slaven Bilic's team will
be looking to make it a hat-trick of home victories over their London rivals
for the first time since November 1998. With the team turning the corner at
present, Antonio, who scored the winner against Spurs in March 2016,
believes his side will make it another tough occasion for the visitors. "We
always turn up against Spurs. It's a massive occasion and we always want to
do it for the fans," Antonio told talkSPORT. Following the team stretching
their unbeaten run to three games on Tuesday night against Bolton Wanderers,
the attacker is confident the Hammers can extend their recent good run of
form. "It shows in the last three games, and hopefully we can keep building
on it and moving forwards," added the 27-year-old. "With the bad start we
had, the last three games have been positive. So hopefully we can build on
that, score more goals, and I can get on the scoresheet myself."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham return to where their Premier League title hopes ended last
season... can West Ham continue to haunt Mauricio Pochettino's side?
West Ham have enjoyed plenty of success over Tottenham in the Premier League

Hammers have won three of the last four home games against London rivals
Mauricio Pochettino watched his side's title hopes go up in smoke at West
Ham
East Londoners have recorded 14 wins over Spurs since start of Premier
League
By Ben Grounds For Mailonline
PUBLISHED: 09:56, 22 September 2017 | UPDATED: 09:59, 22 September 2017

Tottenham return to the venue where their Premier League title aspirations
began to unravel last season, with West Ham looking to continue their good
record against their London rivals. The Hammers have recorded 14 wins over
Spurs since the inception of the Premier League in 1992 - their highest
tally of wins against a single opponent. Only four of those victories came
at White Hart Lane, meaning it is when the east Londoners host the fixture
that most of the damage has been done. The handsome win at home to Bolton in
the Carabao Cup was the perfect way for Slaven Bilic's men to gear up for
Saturday's lunchtime cracker against one of the club's fiercest rivals.
Spurs are seemingly going through the same teething problems at Wembley as
West Ham experienced last year, meaning points are perhaps easier to come by
on the road. But Mauricio Pochettino took his side to the London Stadium
towards the end of last season and a Manuel Lanzini strike consigned them to
defeat to all but end their title hopes.
West Ham United recall positive memories from previous encounters against
Tottenham and will look to claim a third straight home win over them having
also come out on top in the final league clash at Upton Park. Michail
Antonio's early goal was enough to secure victory at the Boleyn Ground in
March 2016 and Bilic, whose side have one win from five games, is hoping for
another partisan atmosphere this weekend. 'Everyone involved talks for
months (about those games) and we still remember the game in May and the one
at Upton Park, so those are the patterns we want to repeat on Saturday,'
Bilic told the club's website. 'We ended their hopes of winning the league
but it gives us no psychological advantage. But the advantage comes when you
remember good memories and good patterns to repeat what we have actually
already done against that team,' he added. Pochettino, whose Tottenham side
are fifth in the standings on eight points from five games, said the West
Ham clash is massive for both the team and the fans. 'A derby, just like
when we play Arsenal or Chelsea, is not only a game. It's more than a
football game. It's emotional, you play for your pride and we understand
what it means for our fans -- we share the same feelings,' he told
Tottenham's website.

Pochettino also said midfielder Mousa Dembele, who played in the midweek
Carabao Cup win over Barnsley, would see limited action as he continued to
recover from foot surgery. West Ham are looking for their second win of the
season. They began the campaign with three straight losses, before beating
Huddersfield 2-0 and drawing with West Bromwich Albion last week.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com