Daily WHUFC News II - 6th March 2017

Loanee round up
WHUFC.com

Enner Valencia scored a consolation goal for Everton as they were beaten at
Tottenham Hotpsur
Josh Cullen and Sam Howes both put in Man of the Match performances for
their respsective Bradford City and Hampton and Richmond Borough sides
Sam Ford grabbed Bishop's Storford's winner away at St. Albans City

Hammers loanee Enner Valencia was on the scoresheet on Sunday for Everton in
the Premier League, though the goal could not spark a late comeback against
Tottenham Hotpsur. The Ecuador forward was introduced by boss Ronald Koeman
for the last nine minutes at White Hart Lane, and cut the deficit to just
one goal in the dying seconds to make it 3-2. Racing into the box to meet
Ross Barkley's deep set-piece delivery, Valencia met the ball on the volley
to finish well into the bottom corner. But having previously scored in
injury time themselves through Deli Alli, Spurs held on to take all three
points and stay hot on the heels of West Ham United's Monday night opponents
Chelsea. The goal was Valencia's second for the Merseysiders, and it came
after Romelu Lukaku had given the Toffees a way back into the game following
Harry Kane's double.

Another Saturday, another Man of the Match performance for midfielder Josh
Cullen, who has starred on loan at Bradford City this season. The
20-year-old helped the Bantams to an important 1-0 victory when they hosted
Peterborough United – the win keeps Stuart McCall's men inside the third
tier's top six. Martin Samuelsen was an unused substitute for Posh. The
victory was Cullen's 35th appearance of the season on loan at the Valley
Parade outfit, and the Ireland youth international will be hoping to help
Bradford play Championship football next season.

Elsewhere, it was a disappointing afternoon for Toni Martinez, whose Oxford
United were beaten at 2-0 home by Bristol Rovers. Overtaking their hosts,
the Pirates moved into eighth spot in League One with the win thanks to
goals from Ollie Clarke and Stuart Sinclair.

George Dobson was left on the bench as his Walsall side were 2-0 winners
over Oldham Athletic.

In the National League South, Hammers striker Sam Ford was on the scoresheet
for Bishop's Stortford as they picked up a crucial three points at St.
Albans City. Bishop's are hoping to avoid the drop this season and, thanks
to the win, are now six points from safety.

Finally, goalkeeper Sam Howes kept a clean sheet in a Man of the Match
performance for Hampton and Richmond Borough in the same division as they
were held 0-0 at Maidenhead United. The stopper made one particularly
brilliant save which has been doing the rounds on social media, springing
away to his right to deny a goal-bound free-kick.

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Manager on Matchday
WHUFC.com

Manager Slaven Bilic writes for whufc.com ahead of Monday's Premier League
visit of leaders Chelsea to London Stadium...

Hello everyone,

Tonight, we face the Premier League leaders and I, my players, my staff and
I am sure all of you are looking forward to West Ham United versus Chelsea.
We will have a fantastic atmosphere at London Stadium, where we will give
everything to repeat the victory over them we achieved in the EFL Cup back
in October. Of course, tonight is a completely different match and both
teams have improved since that night, with Chelsea going into the game seven
points clear at the top of the Premier League, and us looking to win, go
back above Southampton and Stoke City and close the gap on West Bromwich
Albion down to four points. We are playing good and while some people might
say this is a 'bonus' game, it's a home game and we're expecting something.
We know big time that we have to be on top of our game at both ends of the
pitch, concentrate 100 per cent and show non-stop determination. If we play
like that and get a bit of luck, which is always needed, when you play
against them we can get a result.

I was asked in my press conference if we 'fear' Chelsea but of course we
don't fear them, like we don't fear any opponent. None of our players would
be in this position playing in the Premier League if they felt fear before a
game. There is no fear at all.
There is respect, of course there is, and they deserve that for what they
have done this season, Chelsea deserve more respect than any other team.
They are a top team and sometimes, when you play against a top team, you
have a game plan on paper or on a board and you go 'Yeah, we will double
them here and double them there, and look at all the space that we can use'
and you go out on the pitch fearless. That said, you can prepare as best you
can, but then in the first five minutes they break you down, pass the ball
and you can't get the ball let alone use the space and you realise 'they are
brilliant'. We have respect but no fear at all.

We have Andy Carroll back in the squad tonight, which is a big boost for us,
particularly as we will be without Michail after his red card at Watford. It
means a lot to have him available. We have done well without him available
but with him we may well have done even better. He is one of our key
players. It will be great to have him on a pitch tonight and I am optimistic
that he will be fit to be involved. You know how much I rate him and how
much we rate him. We are not a one-man team though. We have a great squad
and we are playing good, so we go into the game with confidence that we can
do something good.

Enjoy the game.
Slaven

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U18s qualify for PL Phase Two Division One
WHUFC.com

West Ham's U18s ended their Premier League South campaign in fourth place
That ensures qualification for Division One of Premier League Phase Two
Assistant boss Mark Phillips says he and manager Steve Potts are delighted

U18s assistant manager Mark Phillips has expressed delight at his U18s
qualifying, yet again, for Division One of Premier League Phase Two. All
eyes were on Fulham who needed a victory at home to Norwich City on
Saturday, but despite taking a 2-0 lead, the Cottagers ended up drawing the
fixture, which ensured the Hammers' place in the top four. It is the third
time in four seasons that the U18s have finished among the elite academy
teams and they will face some very tough tests in the coming months.
However, Phillips is looking forward to the challenge facing his players.
"We are very delighted to finish in the top four," he declared. "It's going
to give the boys a real challenge in the coming months and it's one I know
they'll be looking forward to. "You want to be playing against the best
sides because it's about development at the end of the day, but it looked
like it wasn't going to happen at one point during Saturday. "I saw Fulham
were 2-0 up and then thought 'we won't make it' but Norwich fought back and
we've sneaked into the top four. We've certainly done it the hard way!"

The Hammers finished in the South Division top four alongside Chelsea,
Arsenal and Reading and they will meet the top four from the North Division
– Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers. Each
side will play each other once over the next couple of months, with fixtures
set to be announced in due course. Phillips looked back on the South
campaign with fondness and said it was a "great achievement" for his young
group of players. "We've played lots of U16s this season and, especially
against Chelsea in our last match, they did very well and were probably in
our top five players on the day," Phillips continued. "I think the eventual
winners of the FA Youth Cup are in the top group – Chelsea or Man City – so
it's going to be great to test ourselves against the best."

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Three Key Battles - Chelsea
WHUFC.com

As West Ham United prepare for their second meeting with Chelsea this season
at London Stadium, whufc.com takes a look at three key battles which could
swing the balance in Monday's night's Premier League fixture.

The Hammers were of course victorious last time out against the Blues –
goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes sealed the EFL Cup tie
win on a memorable night in east London.

And though Chelsea, so impressive under Antonio Conte this season, currently
sit top of the Premier League table, October's superb success has Slaven
Bilic's men believing they can shock the west Londoners once again.

Reid v Cahill

Starting at the back, two club stalwarts in Winston Reid and Gary Cahill
have been pivotal to their respective sides this season.

Reid, who held things together as the Hammers battled through some early
season struggles, looks to be forming a solid partnership with new signing
Jose Fonte, while Cahill has taken on the captaincy role with great success
as John Terry sits out.

It's clear to see, by the New Zealander's statistics, how important he is.
Making 8.9 clearances on average per match, the centre-back has got rid of
the ball on fewer occasions than only Bournemouth's Steve Cook and
Sunderland's Papy Djilobodji.

Chelsea's defence this season has also, at times, been impenetrable and with
Cahill at its heart, the side have conceded fewer goals than any other team
in the top flight.

Obiang v Kante

In midfield, another pair have been hugely influential this season. Pedro
Obiang, utilised only at times in his first campaign at the Club, has come
into his own this term.

Meanwhile, N'Golo Kante has been marvellous to watch for the last season and
a half now, playing a vital role as Leicester City were crowned champions
last year and now proving similarly as important for Conte's team.

The Frenchman, whose best attributes include winning the ball back and
getting around the pitch at pace, already looks set to claim back-to-back
Premier League titles.

Obiang, on the other hand, may play at a slightly slow and steadier pace,
but the Spaniard controls matches for Bilic's men and bagged his first goal
in Claret and Blue recently at Southampton.

Lanzini v Fabregas

Finally, the playmakers; Manuel Lanzini and Cesc Fabregas. Though the latter
has not started many of Chelsea's recent matches, the Spaniard did face
Swansea City from the off in the Blues' last clash, scoring in the 3-1 win.
He therefore looks set to keep his place tonight.

For Monday night's hosts, Lanzini will again be crucial, the responsibility
of driving his team forward and creating chances resting on his shoulders.

In 2017, the diminutive Argentine's form has been excellent with him scoring
twice and setting up a double at Middlesbrough.

With Andy Carroll and Diego Costa likely to be lurking in the penalty areas
at London Stadium, Lanzini and Fabregas will be looking to provide their
teammates with plenty of goalscoring opportunities.

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Winston Reid warns Chelsea that West Ham have 'turned the table' at the
London Stadium ahead of Premier League encounter
West Ham beat Premier League leaders Chelsea at London Stadium in EFL Cup
They have suffered home humblings against both Arsenal and Manchester City
Twelfth-placed are the highest-ranked team they have beaten at home in
league
The Hammers will be looking to claim three points on Monday against Chelsea
By Oliver Todd for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 13:37, 6 March 2017 | UPDATED: 13:41, 6 March 2017

Winston Reid has warned Chelsea that West Ham have finally 'turned the
table' to become a real threat to the big teams at the London Stadium. The
Hammers beat the Premier League leaders at their new ground in the EFL Cup
back in October but have suffered home humblings at the hands of Arsenal and
Manchester City. Reid, though, reckons West Ham are now ready to upset the
odds at the former Olympic Stadium. Twelfth-placed are the highest-ranked
team they have beaten at home in the league so far. 'I think the way that
the season started obviously wasn't the best, especially at home but we've
turned the table now,' the centre back told Sportsmail.
'We're still going to have to improve on our home form, we're doing so, and
it will be a good game. Chelsea are going well but we're also going well so
we'll wait and see.' Meanwhile, West Ham captain Mark Noble can also see a
team growing into their new, upgraded 60,000 capacity home. 'That's what
happens when you win games — you build the fear factor,' Noble said. 'When
you win games the crowd get behind and obviously at the beginning of the
season it was tough for us, as it is for every club that moves stadium but
we're going to have to get used to that. 'It will take time to be a proper
home but I'm hoping we can do it sooner rather than later.' Reid is expected
to line-up alongside January signing Jose Fonte at the heart of Slaven
Bilic's defence on Monday night. The new pairing are yet to keep a clean
sheet together but Reid, 28, says their understanding is growing. 'It's been
going well. I think it always takes time, it takes time with any
partnership,' he said. 'It takes time to build relations and it's only going
to get better and better. So, yeah, it's been really good

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Jose Fonte left furious with reports that he handed in transfer request and
refused to train before leaving Southampton for West Ham
Jose Fonte joined West Ham from Southampton in an £8million deal in January
The Portuguese defender is frustrated with the 'lies' that were told over
his move
Reports stated that he handed in a transfer request and refused to train
West Ham face Premier League leaders Chelsea on Monday at London Stadium
By Jonathan Spencer For Mailonline
PUBLISHED: 12:54, 6 March 2017 | UPDATED: 13:06, 6 March 2017

Jose Fonte has been left frustrated with the 'lies' that he says have been
told over his move from Southampton to West Ham in January.
The Portuguese defender joined the Hammers in an £8million deal after
spending seven years with Southampton at St Mary's. During his long spell
with the Saints, Fonte became captain and helped the club move up the
English divisions, from League One up to the Premier League. But following
his transfer, the 33-year-old centre-back has been left furious with reports
that he handed in a transfer request and refused to train with Southampton
in order to force a move away from the club. 'My conscience is very clear,'
Fonte told Sky Sports ahead of West Ham's home match with Chelsea on Monday.
'When I see all over the news that I submitted a transfer request to leave
the club – that is disappointing. That never happened. 'There was an
interview from the club; from a press conference that I demanded to leave,
which then the press took it as a transfer request and I wonder - where is
it? 'I spoke to the club [after winning Euro 2016] and said there could be
possibilities [to move] and I would like the club to consider it. 'In the
summer there were possibilities of leaving – that is normal, everyone fights
for their own interests to get the best possible outcome for yourself.
'To say that I wrote an official transfer request to the club, that is a
lie. And also that I refused to train and I wasn't being a good captain?
That is a complete lie. I have always given my best to that club. That is
the main thing the fans should know.' Fonte and his West Ham team-mates take
on Premier League leaders Chelsea on Monday night at the London Stadium.
Slaven Bilic's side will be looking to upset the Blues as the visitors aim
to maintain their big lead at the top of the table.

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Slaven Bilic says Antonio Conte has transformed Chelsea players into
superheroes but West Ham boss rules out Asmir Begovic move
SLAVEN BILIC
Evening Standard

I am looking forward to tonight's game against the runaway title favourites
Chelsea. This is our third meeting of the season and it stands at 1-1 at the
moment. We won the EFL Cup tie back in October but Chelsea came out on top
in the opening game of this season at Stamford Bridge. I remember they were
better than us and we gave away a cheap penalty. We then equalised and I
still recall they looked shaky — it was as though they were in a bit of
shock. There was a chance to even win the game. Maybe Diego Costa was lucky
to stay on the pitch and we paid the price when, with a couple of minutes to
go, he scored the winning goal. They were then a good side but better now.
So what is their secret? Why are they so dominant? The answer first is —
there is no secret.

The main thing you notice about Chelsea this season is that they are very
fit, they work hard, they are very solid and on top of that, they have that
quality up front which is basically making the difference in every game. If
you compare them with the other title contenders, Chelsea are more solid
than Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool. Most of the games, they are
winning not totally the Italian way and at home they play some very
offensive football. Look at the way they push up their wing-backs, they are
more like wingers. It's a very demanding position and there is no point in
playing that system if the players are not capable of possessing that level
of fitness. Both of them — Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso — have great
stamina and they train hard. What makes Chelsea solid is that they never
defend with three — it's always five. The only one who is resting somewhat
is Costa and, sometimes, Eden Hazard. When Chelsea win possession, though,
Alonso and Moses are right up there and to do that regularly, not now and
again, you have to train hard and be almost superheroes.

In my opinion that makes them solid but then dangerous when they have the
ball. The other key points for me are that they have no other distractions
and they have no injuries. I have to say I am a great admirer of Antonio
Conte. He is one of a number of Italian coaches who have come to England and
had success. If I am asked to describe Conte's teams, I would answer —
energy. His teams work hard but also have quality. It shouldn't be difficult
to make even average players work hard because they should know that is the
minimum but it is more difficult to make big players work hard and make
sacrifices for the team — that is the key. That's what Conte is doing. Some
of the top teams rely on their class. You don't, for example, need that
maximum energy for many games if you are Real Madrid. You can still win
because you have the class.

At Chelsea, though, the whole team are playing with that peak energy. The
best example I can give is Hazard. He is working as hard as anyone in that
team now. That's the difference I can see between Conte and some of the
others and he does it long-term. It's not just an impact for a few months
and everyone is hyped up — he did it for three seasons at Juventus. There,
they played every game as though it was their last and I can see the same
characteristics in Chelsea. Having said all those nice things about Conte
and his Chelsea team, I would be so happy it we could ruin their night.

We have been linked with many players in the last three transfer windows,
including Chelsea goalkeeper Asmir Begovic. In those three windows, though,
I have said a few times that the only position in the team I have absolutely
no interest in discussing is the goalkeeping spot. I was happy — and I am
still happy — with Adrian and Darren Randolph. If you ask me whether they
will both still be here next season, I would say yes. You can never be 100
per cent certain in football, of course, and maybe one of them will knock on
the door and say he is unhappy but even if that happens, I will try to
persuade them to stay at the club.

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West Ham to open talks with Pedro Obiang over new deal
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 06/03/17 2:52pm
SSN

West Ham will open contract talks with Pedro Obiang at the end of the
season, according to Sky sources. The Spanish midfielder joined the Hammers
from Serie A side Sampdoria in June 2015 and has just over two years
remaining on his current four-year contract. Reports in the national press
have linked Liverpool with a £18m summer move for Obiang, with Jurgen Klopp
already expressing his desire to add up to six players to his squad ahead of
next season. Sky sources understand West Ham are keen to reward Obiang for
the fine form he has shown this season, with the 24-year-old having become a
regular starter under manager Slaven Bilic. Obiang, who struggled to hold
down a regular first-team place last season, has featured 27 times this
campaign and scored his first goal for the club in the 3-1 victory over
Southampton in February. He is likely to start for West Ham against Chelsea
at London Stadium on Monday Night Football, live on Sky Sports 1 HD from
7pm. Meanwhile, West Ham are also close to agreeing a deal to give Bilic a
new contract at the end of the campaign. Bilic, who was appointed as Sam
Allardyce's successor in June 2015, has 15 months remaining on his present
deal.

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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic wants to mirror Antonio Conte's ambition and
build long-term success
KEN DYER
Evening Standard

Slaven Bilic wants to mirror Antonio Conte's ambition at Chelsea and help
build long-term success at West Ham. The two managers go head-to-head
tonight at the London Stadium and after Conte told Standard Sport last week
he wants to stay at Stamford Bridge for years, Bilic too, believes he can
build something special at his club. The Croatian has another season to run
on his contract after this one but it is likely West Ham will offer him an
improved deal this summer. "The longer you stay somewhere, the more chance
you have to win things," said the West Ham manager. "Sometimes the best
season for a coach is their first season, as with Claudio Ranieri at
Leicester. He couldn't do any better than last season. "There are examples
like that which prove me wrong, but normally you have a much bigger chance
if you are given time to build your team and improve it. "With us, we knew
that this season would not be easy, but I believe everyone can see we are
now on an upward curve. "We have had some bumps along the way and there will
be more to come, but I think everyone can feel we are moving the right way."
Striker Andy Carroll looks likely to return tonight after missing two games
with a groin injury. Bilic said: "Andy is looking good. He has trained for
the last week and it is good to have him back."

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West Ham star Robert Snodgrass comes to realisation over internet sensation
Salt Bae: 'It's just a guy walking round with a big knife!'
West Ham recently paid a visit to the restuarant of internet sensation 'Salt
Bae'
The chef shot to global fame after being filmed sensually salting steak
Hammers ace Robert Snodgrass came to a realise upon seeing the man himself
'It's just a guy walking around with a big knife!' said the Scottish striker
Snodgrass is set to play against Chelsea despite a warrant being issued for
his arrest in Scotland last Friday for failing to attend court
By Sam Cunningham for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 10:43, 6 March 2017 | UPDATED: 10:48, 6 March 2017

Robert Snodgrass was enjoying having his steak prepared by famously
flamboyant chef Salt Bae during West Ham's Dubai training trip when
something struck him. To those less seasoned with internet sensations, Salt
Bae is a Turkish chef — real name Nusret Gokce — who shot to fame in January
when a video of him sensually preparing a t-bone steak and finishing it off
with a fanciful flick of salt went viral. His following on social media
increased by several millions and prompted Hollywood star Leonardo Di Caprio
to visit.
West Ham were in need of a distraction from the coldest, wettest
warm-weather training in history so they planned a trip to Gokce's Nusr-Et
restaurant chain. The long-haired, sunglasses-wearing chef even rescheduled
his plans to make a special appearance for the players. But while Gokces
ferreted around with his machete and meats, Scot Snodgrass, who signed for
West Ham from Hull City for £7million during peak Salt Bae hysteria,
couldn't help but think that this would not be such a celebrated spectacle
back home. 'If that restaurant was in Glasgow it would be shut down, it's
just a guy walking round with a big knife!' Snodgrass says.

The winger is set to play against Chelsea on Monday evening, despite a
warrant being issued for his arrest back in Scotland last Friday for failing
to attend court. He is charged with driving while a baby was being held by a
passenger. 'It was just a misunderstanding and I didn't realise I had to be
present in court,' he explains. 'It's not a big issue and will be resolved
in due course.'

In many ways, Snodgrass is the Salt Bae of footballers. He caresses the ball
with his left-foot to deliver the finest set pieces akin to Gokce's delicate
way of delivering the finest steak. Gockce's flick of the wrist is similar
to the midfielder's swish of a left boot. Like Gokce, Snodgrass is a luxury,
brought in to replace Dimitri Payet who forced his way out of the club in
January.

'He's obviously got a special knack to putting the salt on, it runs down his
arm and he flicks his wrist and it goes on to your plate,' Snodgrass adds.
'And he has different ways of cutting the meat. We were asking him if he got
a million followers [on Instagram] in one day, he said, "No 1.5m actually."'

The Salt Bae experience was part of team bonding that has helped Snodgrass
settle with his new team-mates on what turned out to be an unseasonably poor
spell of weather in the Middle East. When West Ham touched down at Dubai
International Airport it was raining and the clouds did not part until they
took off five days later. Some of the players had even brought their
disappointed other halves along for the break.

'The weather was worse than Scotland!' Snodgrass says. 'It was raining a
lot, and cold – felt pretty much like I was back home in Glasgow. So the
lads were gutted. They had some swimming shorts for sitting around the pool
after training, but there was none of that. Absolutely none.

'Some of the lads had jackets and hats on, it was unbelievable – something I
had never seen in Dubai before. I still had to use factor 50 mind, because
it was abroad. But for me and Jose Fonte it was good to go on a trip with
the lads.

'We probably trained harder over there than we did here. Because that was
one thing that the manager stressed, that we have to work harder out there,
and I think the only disappointing thing was that we thought it was going to
be hot weather training, but it was totally different.

'We went for a meal and a cabaret one night. Watched some stuff and had a
meal. And that was good because anything like brings the team closer
together. So it was good. And then when you come back, I think you could see
how close we had become, because the second half against Watford, we knew
were not up to scratch first half, and we had a talk at half time, and I
thought we were great second half and probably should have won it.'

How much effect the hard work, team bonding and Salt Bae have had will be
tested when the Premier League leaders visit.

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Fonte furious over Southampton exit 'lies'Jose Fonte is angry over the way
his transfer from Southampton to West Ham has been portrayed. by Opta News
06 Mar 2017, 14:14 IST

West Ham defender Jose Fonte has hit out at "lies" he says have been told
over his Southampton exit in January.The 33-year-old joined West ham in an
£8million deal after spending seven years with the Saints, a spell that saw
him help the club from League One to the Premier League and become
captain.Fonte is angry at reports he handed in a transfer request and
refused to train in order to force through a move, but confirmed he had been
looking to leave since prior to this season.

"My conscience is very clear," the Portugal international said to Sky Sports
ahead of West Ham's home match with Chelsea on Monday."When I see all over
the news that I submitted a transfer request to leave the club – that is
disappointing. That never happened. "There was an interview from the club;
from a press conference that I demanded to leave, which then the press took
it as a transfer request and I wonder - where is it?"I spoke to the club
[after winning Euro 2016] and said there could be possibilities [to move]
and I would like the club to consider it."In the summer there were
possibilities of leaving – that is normal, everyone fights for their own
interests to get the best possible outcome for yourself. "To say that I
wrote an official transfer request to the club, that is a lie. And also that
I refused to train and I wasn't being a good captain? That is a complete
lie. I have always given my best to that club. That is the main thing the
fans should know."

Asked if he felt unfairly criticised, Fonte said: "No doubt. You need to
know all the facts. "I never wrote a letter to the manager or the club
saying I want to leave because even when that came out in the beginning of
January I didn't have a club to go to, so why would I put in a transfer
request?"The real fans know I have given everything for the club. They know
every time I step on the pitch and put on the shirt, I give blood, sweat and
tears. I have played with broken toes, broken ribs. I have done all I could
to help the team go from League One to the Premier League. "All I want them
to know is that what they see in the press about me putting in a transfer
request and I refused to train, that is all lies. I have never rejected to
train or play. It is hard to see when people are saying I'm a bad egg or an
apple."I appreciate what the club had done for me since day one but we all
have to take care of our families. There were offers that came in that would
take care of my family in ways that Southampton were not willing to. It is a
difficult situation."I arrived in the Premier League late at 29 years old -
you still have to live 50 years after football. You do your best for
yourself and your family. You have got to fight for what you believe. I
respected the club."

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West Ham's warm-weather trip to Dubai was 'worse than Scotland'
ESPN.co.uk

Robert Snodgrass felt right at home on West Ham's recent trip to Dubai --
because the weather was as bad as in his native Glasgow.
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic took advantage of a fixture-free weekend last
month to jet off with his squad to seek out some sunshine.
But winger Snodgrass, a £10.2 million January signing from Hull, revealed
the so-called warm-weather training was a washout due to the constant rain.
"To be honest with you, the weather was worse than Scotland," he said. "It
was raining a lot, and cold. It felt pretty much like I was back home in
Glasgow. "So the lads were gutted. They had some swimming shorts for sitting
around the pool after training, but there was none of that. Absolutely none.
"Some of the lads had jackets and hats on, it was unbelievable -- something
I had never seen in Dubai before. I still had to use factor 50, mind. "But
it was good. We probably trained harder over there than we did here. Because
that was one thing the manager stressed, that we have to work harder out
there. "The only disappointing thing was that we thought it was going to be
hot-weather training, but it was totally different."

The Hammers did manage a spot of team bonding between the downpours,
including a visit to Salt Bae chef and internet sensation Nusret Gokce's
restaurant. "The chef was there, he came and did his thing with the salt,"
added Snodgrass. "I think if that restaurant was in Glasgow it would be shut
down, it's just a guy walking round with a big knife! "But he was such a
nice guy. I think he was going somewhere else but he drove back for us to
cook the stuff and chop it up which was really nice of him."

Snodgrass is now hoping to cut Chelsea down to size when the runaway Premier
League leaders visit the London Stadium on Monday night.
"We have got players here that can cause any team problems," he said. "But
it is the teams in the top six that we have not picked up a lot of points
against this year, so we need to start on Monday against Chelsea."

Last week a warrant was issued for Snodgrass after he failed to attend a
court trial having been charged with driving a car while a baby was being
held by a passenger. But the issue is not expected to affect his or West
Ham's preparations for the match. Snodgrass said: "It was just a
misunderstanding and I didn't realise I had to be present in court. It's not
a big issue and will be resolved in due course."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Winston Reid on coping with Chelsea's Diego Costa: 'You have to
keep your eyes on him at all times'
EXCLUSIVE
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Evening Standard

Winston Reid says he will not let Diego Costa out of his sight when West Ham
host London rivals Chelsea on Monday night, admitting the striker has the
ability to expose any defender's weakness. Costa will arrive at West Ham's
London Stadium tonight having scored 16 goals for Antonio Conte's league
leaders - one of which was the winner in the 2-1 victory over the Hammers at
Stamford Bridge on the opening day of the season. Reid was tasked with
marking Costa in that game, as well as in West Ham's EFL Cup fourth-round
tie with the Blues in October when Conte brought the striker on in the 54th
minute with Chelsea losing 2-0. The West Ham defender admits the Spain
international is a "top player", but says he will try and contain Costa this
evening by staying as close as possible to Chelsea's highest scorer and not
letting him out of his sights. "When you play against top players you have
to do your best and try and be at the best of your game or you get found
out," Reid told Standard Sport. "You have to try and keep your eyes on him
at all times and make sure you're close to him and mark him in the box where
he's dangerous."

Chelsea left it late to beat West Ham in the reverse fixture back in August,
relying on an 89th-minute goal from Costa to hand Conte his first win in the
Premier League. The Blues started the season with a rough 4-3-3 formation
before Conte switched to a 3-4-3 set-up after the 3-0 loss in the league
against Arsenal in late September. The Italian kept that formation for
Chelsea's League Cup clash with West Ham a month later, but saw a
much-changed side lose 2-1 in east London. Chelsea have since stormed to the
top of the Premier League standings while West Ham have steadied their form
and have only lost three of their last 12 top-flight games. Now sitting in
ninth place, Reid believes a rejuvenated West Ham side can use their home
advantage to secure at least a point against Chelsea tonight. "The first
game was different because they played a different system. And the second
game when we played them at home in the Cup, they changed a couple of
positions [in the 3-4-3]," Reid said. "It's a different system, and they are
doing really well. They are hard to score against but we put a couple of
goals past them at home and we put one past them away. "We'll be at home
and hopefully we'll have a good crowd so we will have a go at them and see
if we can win the game. "They aren't leading the league for fun - they've
been scoring goals left, right and centre and conceding very few. It's going
to be tough."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
England manager Gareth Southgate considers handing West Ham striker Andy
Carroll a second chance
Andy Carroll will hope to convince Gareth Southgate of his worth for England
Southgate is expected to be at the London Stadium for West Ham vs Chelsea
28-year-old Hammers striker was in fine form before his latest injury
setback
England boss has focused on visiting Premier League clubs' training grounds
By Kieran Gill for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 22:57, 5 March 2017 | UPDATED: 23:00, 5 March 2017

Gareth Southgate is expected at the London Stadium on Monday night,
potentially giving West Ham striker Andy Carroll a second chance to impress
the England manager. Southgate opted against attending a game on Saturday
and Sunday but has the opportunity to watch West Ham vs Chelsea. It comes
after Southgate travelled to London in February to run the rule over Carroll
– though that turned into a wasted trip. The 28-year-old was left out of the
squad against West Brom due to a groin injury and has not played since
February 4.
Yet he has trained with West Ham's first team this week, and is likely to
feature against Chelsea with Michail Antonio absent due to a ban. Southgate
is aiming to announce his squad for England's upcoming international
fixtures on March 16 – six days before a friendly against Germany. He will
decide during the day on Monday morning whether to attend West Ham vs
Chelsea, with the 46-year-old currently focusing on visiting Premier League
clubs' training grounds. It is in an effort to ensure the relationship
between club and country is amicable.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 6th March 2017

Preview - Chelsea
WHUFC.com

When and where?

West Ham United v Chelsea
Premier League
Monday 6 March 2017, 8pm GMT
London Stadium

What's the story?

West Ham United go for their second home win of the season against Chelsea –
and third in succession – when the Premier League leading Blues visit London
Stadium on Monday night.

Antonio Conte's men have romped into a ten-point lead at the head of the
table with a stunning run of form which has seen them lose just one of their
last 20 league fixtures.

One of their few setbacks in Conte's debut season at the helm came in E20 in
October, when goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes propelled
the Hammers to a 2-1 victory in the EFL Cup fourth round.

That did not throw the Blues out of their Premier League stride, however, as
it came in their middle of their 13-game winning streak which allowed them
to establish their formidable lead at the head of the table.

Chelsea won their last league match 3-1, putting Swansea City to the sword
with Cesc Fabregas, Pedro and Diego Costa all on target.

West Ham were ninth going into this weekend's fixtures, with two draws from
their last two games – 2-2 at home to West Bromwich Albion in mid-February
and 1-1 at Watford last week, when Andre Ayew's 73rd minute goal cancelled
out Troy Deeney's early penalty.

Slaven Bilic's side have lost just one of their last six Premier League
assignments, taking eleven points from that sequence.

Team news

West Ham United will hope to have Andy Carroll back for Monday's game, after
the No9 returned to training this week. He has been in scintillating form
recently, scoring four goals in his last four appearances – but missed those
games against West Brom and Watford.

Carroll could slot straight in for Michail Antonio, who will sit out due to
a one-match ban incurred for his sending off at Vicarage Road.

Angelo Ogbonna, Diafra Sakho and Gokhan Tore are all out injured.

For Chelsea, Antonio Conte has a fully-fit squad at his disposal, and former
Hammers loanee Victor Moses is set to feature at right wing-back.

Match Stat

Match stat

How do I get to the game?

Click here for our comprehensive Matchday Guide for fans attending Monday's
game at London Stadium, answering your questions on everything from
transport to catering.

For up-to-the minute news on the roads, London Underground, London
Overground and TfL Rail networks, click here. The latest service updates on
National Rail services can be found here.

A cool, cloudy night is expected in east London, with temperature at
kick-off 8C (46F).

How can I watch the game?

Monday's London derby is being broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports. You
can also follow all the action as it happens right here on whufc.com. Our
Live Match Centre carries free audio commentary from our radio partners BBC
London, social media updates and in-running stats, photos and more.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From The Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com

We are all looking forward to a London derby against Chelsea on Monday
evening and the opportunity to push ourselves back into the top half of the
Premier League table.

SEATS AVAILABLE ON TICKET EXCHANGE

Of course it will be a tough test against a side who are overwhelming
favourites to win the title, and were 10 points clear before Tottenham beat
Everton on Sunday afternoon, but we can certainly take confidence from our
performances against the Blues so far this season.

We were unlucky not to get something from the game in the reverse fixture at
Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend of the season, when Diego Costa
grabbed a late winner after being fortunate to stay on the pitch.

And then of course came our memorable win at London Stadium in the EFL Cup
fourth round. We were outstanding that evening and thoroughly deserved to go
through to the next round.

That victory looks even more impressive now when you consider the run that
Chelsea have been on since, but I see no reason why we can't produce another
winning display against Antonio Conte's side.

We are at home under the lights, London Stadium is becoming very special now
and I'm convinced the atmosphere will be absolutely electrifying.

And if you look at the teams we fielded in those previous two encounters, I
believe we are stronger now thanks to the players who have returned from
injury and the two new signings that came in during the January transfer
window.

I also think we are more together. Whenever I have spoken to Mark Noble or
been around the players recently, I've seen that camaraderie and spirit,
which is so important.

I must say, the two new boys, Fonte and Snodgrass, have certainly played
their part in that sense. They are two very experienced professionals with
fantastic character, and have made a very positive impression, both on the
pitch and in the dressing-room.

Fonte was magnificent in our last match at Watford, where our second half
performance deserved to earn us all three points.

The biggest disappointment of course was Michail Antonio's red card, which
rules him out of facing Chelsea. He has been in such great form, and is such
an attacking force when running on the ball.

With Andy Carroll hopefully back from injury, it would have been lovely to
have them both available, and for Slaven to have that selection headache in
the forward positions.

Nonetheless, we are now getting to a situation where we have international
experience and quality on the bench, which is a hugely valuable asset for
the manager. The performances in recent weeks have displayed that strength
in depth.

It all adds up to what should be a fantastic encounter on Monday night. I'm
truly optimistic that we will see a positive performance from the team,
spurred on by the passion and spirit of our fans.

That passion and spirit was certainly evident on Thursday night, when I
attended the premiere of the new Iron Men DVD at the Genesis cinema in Mile
End.

It was an incredible evening. The emotions swung backwards and forward, ups
and downs, the film was amazing. And the stars of it are the fans. Mabel
Arnold, for example, at 100-years-old, was just fantastic.

I thought it might just be an interesting documentary, but it was far more
than that. The film is truly captivating and takes you along all the highs
and lows of that unforgettable final season, which perfectly sums up what
being a West Ham fan is all about.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dicks draws on Chelsea memories
WHUFC.com

Julian Dicks hoping to add to his list of victories over Chelsea on Monday
evening
Terminator scored twice in wins over the Blues during his West Ham United
playing career
Hammers have won their previous two home games against the west London club

Julian Dicks is hoping to add to his bank of fond memories of facing Chelsea
when the Blues visit London Stadium on Monday.

West Ham United's first-team coaching assistant enjoyed a 4-1 First Division
win over Chelsea in just his seventh Hammers appearance back in May 1988,
while he was part of the side which scored a 1-0 League Cup success against
the Pensioners in October 1994.

Dicks completed a hat-trick of victories over the west London club when his
thumping header secured a 2-1 Premier League win over the Blues at Stamford
Bridge in February 1996, before his penalty helped the Hammers to a 3-2
victory at the Boleyn Ground in March 1997.

On returning to the Club in summer 2015, the Terminator saw West Ham defeat
Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League on their final visit to Upton Park, before
guiding the Hammers to an EFL Cup victory over Antonio Conte's side on their
first-ever trip to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Unsurprisingly, the four-time Hammer of the Year enjoys derby dates against
the men from SW6.

"I remember beating them 4-1 at Upton Park but the one which sticks out for
me is when we beat them 2-1 at Stamford Bridge," he recalled. "Danny
Williamson scored and then I scored a header.

"I remember getting some stick from David Mellor in the few weeks before
over the John Spencer incident, so I enjoyed scoring that goal and helping
us get the win.

"To be honest, I enjoy the derby matches more than any other, especially
under the lights. I always enjoyed facing Chelsea and Tottenham during my
playing career and, as a coach, it's no different."

While Dicks enjoyed getting one over Chelsea as a player, he knows adding to
that list of victories on Monday will be difficult, seeing as Conte's side
are seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.

"Chelsea are top of the division by a long stretch, they are a good team
with some very good players," Dicks observed. "Listen, we're going to have
to be on our game and give 100 per cent for us to have a chance of winning
this game.

"Last year, they were blaming Jose Mourinho and it probably was a factor,
but you can see they are all pulling together.

"When we played them in the EFL Cup, they brought on Diego Costa and Eden
Hazard and the game changed because they have got so much pace and bring the
ball forward so quickly."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cresswell ready for Moses reunion
WHUFC.com

Aaron Cresswell ready to face former West Ham United teammate Victor Moses
Left-back first faced Chelsea wing-back in an FA Youth Cup tie when he was
just 16
No3 was turning out for Tranmere Rovers, while Moses was in action for
Crystal Palace

As he prepares for the challenge of slowing down Victor Moses, Aaron
Cresswell revealed that he has known about the Chelsea player's talents for
longer than most.

Cresswell was 16 and Moses just 15 when Tranmere Rovers travelled to
Selhurst Park to take on Crystal Palace in the FA Youth Cup fourth round in
January 2006. Despite his tender years, Moses was the star of the show,
inspiring the Eagles to a 3-1 victory, and leaving an impression on
Tranmere's young defender.

Eleven years on and, after spending last season as teammates, the pair are
set to square-off again at London Stadium on Monday night, with left-back
Cresswell set to come up directly against the Blues' flying right wing-back.

"Vic spent a year with us here and he's a great lad, and he's really kicked
on and shown what he is all about this season," he said. "Some people
questioned if he would ever fulfil his potential, but since Antonio Conte
has come in, he's taken to it and had a right go and has arguably been one
of their best players.

"Vic is a very laid-back and chilled character, but since their new manager
has come in, he's really got his head down and worked hard and it looks like
he's going to win the Premier League.

"His ability was never in question. He has fantastic talent and I remember
playing against him in the Youth Cup when he was at Crystal Palace and he
was 15 and even at that age you could see the ability that he had.

"I'm looking forward to the game because you want to play against the best
teams and the best players and Chelsea have certainly got them."

While Moses is in the form of his life, Cresswell knows Chelsea possess
quality all over the pitch, with every one of the eleven players knowing
their role precisely in Antonio Conte's favoured 3-5-2 formation.

Since moving to three centre-halves in early October, Chelsea have lost just
two of 20 matches in all competitions – at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier
League and, of course, at London Stadium in the EFL Cup.

Despite being one of only four teams to defeat the Blues this season –
Liverpool and Arsenal did so before Conte's tactical switch – Cresswell
knows West Ham need to be at their best to defeat the runaway leaders.

"Of course we know it's going to be a tough game as they are comfortably
leading the Premier League," he confirmed. "They've been fantastic under
their new manager and since they've changed formation we have seen what a
good team they really are.

"If you play 3-5-2, it certainly makes being a wing-back a
physically-demanding position to play, as you have two jobs to do at once.
Chelsea have got the personnel that fit perfectly into that formation and
they've really kicked on since they changed to that formation.

"We've played that system a few times ourselves, so we know what that
formation is all about but, regardless of that, we know it's going to be a
tough game. We beat them 2-1 earlier this season and I'd definitely take
that again, but they're a top team so we'll need to be at our very best."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five Talking Points – Chelsea
WHUFC.com

The major discussion points ahead of West Ham United's London derby with
Chelsea on Monday evening...

History repeating?

Chelsea have lost just FOUR of the 32 matches they have contested in Premier
League, Emirates FA Cup and EFL Cup this season – all of them in London.
Three of those defeats were suffered in the Premier League – at home to
Liverpool and away from home at Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur – while the
fourth came in the EFL Cup fourth round at London Stadium back in October.
West Ham United produced an inspired performance to overcome Antonio Conte's
team 2-1, with goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes. While
Chelsea have improved since that defeat, so have the Hammers, who have lost
just three of their last 12 Premier League matches. So, the question is, can
history repeat itself?

Forward thinking

Andy Carroll returned to the training pitch in midweek and is on course to
make his comeback after missing two Premier League matches with a groin
injury. The big No9 was in superb form before his latest injury setback,
scoring six goals in eleven Premier League appearances over the Christmas
and New Year period.
With Michail Antonio absent through suspension after being red carded at
Watford a week ago, Carroll's return comes at the vital time for Slaven
Bilic. The forward's skillset should occupy Gary Cahill and his central
defensive partners, lifting the pressure that Chelsea will undoubtedly put
on the Hammers on Monday night.

Fabregas v Lanzini

While it is of course far more complex than that, the midfield battle
between playmakers Cesc Fabregas and Manuel Lanzini will be fascinating.
Having just passed 300 Premier League appearances, Fabregas has 102 Premier
League assists to his name – second only to Ryan Giggs – and the Spaniard's
influence on Chelsea's play appears to be growing. Fabregas's passing and
movement are both exceptional and central to the Blues' lightning-quick ball
movement, which has given so many opponents nightmares this season. Lanzini
is a different player, but he too has become a vital player for his team,
creating space with his close control and elusive play, and chances with his
incisive passing. Whoever comes out on top between Fabregas and Lanzini may
decide Monday's game in their team's favour.

Resurgent Moses

Slaven Bilic told his pre-match press conference that Dimitri Payet
described Victor Moses as West Ham United's 'best player' during the
Nigerian's loan spell in east London last season. For whatever reason, Moses
did not discover his top form in Claret and Blue, but he has certainly done
so with his parent club this season.
Athletic, strong and skilful, Moses has established himself as Chelsea's
first-choice right wing-back, earning a new long-term contract in the past
week. The promise that he showed during his formative years at Crystal
Palace and, in patches, in a West Ham shirt a year ago, is finally and
spectacularly being fulfilled.

Early issues

West Ham United will need to concentrate for the entire 90 minutes when they
face a formidable Chelsea team on Monday. That much would have been true had
the Hammers not conceded in the opening 12 minutes in each of their last
three Premier League fixtures. Early goals have put Slaven Bilic's team on
the back foot against Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Watford. While
West Ham have fought back to take five points from those matches, it is a
habit the manager will want his team to shake if they are to continue their
recent run of good form.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic hails Lanzini ability
WHUFC.com

Slaven Bilic hails ability of West Ham United's No10 Manuel Lanzini
Manager says the Argentine is making his teammates better players
Bilic impressed by way 24-year-old has taken on a more influential role in
recent matches

Slaven Bilic says Manuel Lanzini possesses the ability to make every other
West Ham United player perform to a higher level.

Lanzini has been in outstanding form since taking his place as the Hammers'
central playmaker following the departure of Dimitri Payet, making the No10
position behind the striker his own in recent weeks. Manager Bilic says the
24-year-old has shown great maturity to overcome the disappointment of
missing the 2016 Rio Olympic Games through a knee injury to become a vital
member of his side.

The five goals and two assists Lanzini has achieved bely his overall
contribution to the team. His outstanding technique and dribbling, penchant
for wriggling out of tight situations and ability to turn defence into
attack and create space for others are all qualities which Bilic hailed when
asked about the South American's contribution.

Next up for Lanzini and West Ham is the challenge of overcoming runaway
Premier League leaders Chelsea at London Stadium on Monday evening, but the
boss is confident his diminutive creator will not be overawed by facing the
Blues.

"When your best players improve, then you are improving as a team," Bilic
observed. "They are your best players not only because of their individual
skills, but because they are making all the other players around them better
– and that's what Manu means to us.

"He started the season with a big injury and a big disappointment that he
couldn't go to play for Argentina at the Olympic Games, then he needed a bit
of time to get into good shape and all that, and the team helped him.

"Of course he is now also helping the team and he's a top player who is
basically making all the players around him feel more comfortable on the
ball, on the pitch, playing with more confidence, knowing if they're in
trouble they can pass to him and he will always make that space available
for them. That is crucial.

"I'm a big fan of him. He's a very young player with his ups and downs and
he has to stay focussed and totally in his game and in football he can
achieve great things."

*Tickets for Monday's sold-out visit of Antonio Conte's Chelsea to London
Stadium are available now here via the Ticket Exchange.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United v Chelsea
MON, 06 MAR 2017
PREMIER LEAGUE
20:00
Venue: London Stadium
BBC.co.uk

TEAM NEWS

West Ham are optimistic that striker Andy Carroll, who has been out for a
month with a groin injury, will be fit to make his comeback on Monday.

However, winger Michail Antonio serves a one-game ban.

Chelsea winger Eden Hazard is expected to be available despite suffering a
knock in training.

They could name the same side which began the 3-1 win against Swansea, with
Cesc Fabregas again likely to be preferred to Nemanja Matic.

RADIO 5 LIVE COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

John Murray: "In all competitions this season, Chelsea have lost only four
matches. They've all been played in London. And one of them was here, on one
of West Ham's best nights yet at their London Stadium, in the EFL Cup back
in October.

"Antonio Conte did not pick his strongest possible team for that match,
indeed perhaps only four of that side will be starting this one. But he will
surely be forearmed after experiencing first hand what West Ham can be
capable of on their day.

"West Ham's nine Premier League wins this season have all come against clubs
who were in the bottom half of the table coming into this round of matches.

"To beat Chelsea again, particularly without the suspended Michail Antonio -
now one of their most important players - would be the achievement of their
season so far."

Twitter: @bbcjohnmurray

Listen to live coverage of West Ham v Chelsea on BBC Radio 5 live, with
commentary from John Murray and Phil Neville.

WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic on the form of ex-Hammers loanee Victor Moses:
"His potential, his characteristics, his strength, were always amazing. His
pace, quality on the ball and stamina is basically top, top-class.

"Sometimes you have to push him to do it day in, day out, and now he is
doing it. His place was anything but guaranteed at the beginning of the
season but he proved himself.

"I remember once I spoke to [Dimitri] Payet during last season. Payet said
that, even including himself, Victor is the best player that we have at West
Ham."

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte on speculation linking him with a return to
Italian football: "My situation is very clear. I have a contract with
Chelsea. We are trying to do something important with the club, for the
present, for the future.

"Every coach, when you start work with a new club, you hope to stay many,
many years, because it means you are working very well.

"The only problem for me this season is the family is missing me. My family
stay in Italy and I'm working, I'm working for the future to try to bring
them here and to stay together."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

West Ham's poor start to the season seems a distant memory now but Chelsea
just keep finding a way to win games.

That is why I would back the Blues to get a win at the London Stadium and
also why I don't see anyone catching Antonio Conte's side at the top of the
table.

Prediction: 0-2

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

West Ham have won their last two league and cup home games against Chelsea,
both by 2-1 scorelines.
The Hammers' victory in this fixture last season is their only win in the
last eight Premier League meetings (D2, L5).
West Ham United

The Hammers could draw three successive Premier League games for the first
time since a run of four draws between March and April 2016.
Andy Carroll, who has scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea,
is one short of 50 Premier League goals.
Manuel Lanzini has scored seven times in 11 Premier League London derbies -
compared to just four goals in 38 games against sides from outside the
capital.
Chelsea

Chelsea have kept two clean sheets in their last eight league games - having
recorded 10 shut-outs in the previous 12 top flight matches.
Antonio Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier
League, at Arsenal and Tottenham, but won at Crystal Palace.
Diego Costa has scored in 54% of his Premier League appearances, a higher
proportion than any other player to feature in at least 20 matches.
Costa needs two goals to reach 50 Premier League goals, and could become the
fifth quickest player to reach that mark after Andrew Cole (65 games), Alan
Shearer (66), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68) and Fernando Torres (72).
Pedro has been directly involved in 10 goals in his last nine games in all
competitions, scoring seven and setting up three.

SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-1 Probability of draw: 23%
Probability of home win: 24% Probability of away win: 53%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football
matches.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Robert Snodgrass says court warrant is a 'misunderstanding'
Last Updated: 05/03/17 11:25pm
SSN

West Ham's Robert Snodgrass has played down reports of a warrant being
issued in respect of his failure to attend court, saying it is simply 'a
misunderstanding'.
Last week a warrant was issued for the Scotland international after he
failed to attend a court trial having been charged with driving a car while
a baby was being held by a passenger. Snodgrass is alleged to have driven on
Duke Street, Glasgow, on 17 April 2016 with too many people in the vehicle
to fit a baby seat in. But the issue is not expected to affect his or West
Ham's preparations for the Sky Live match wth Chelsea on Monday night.
Snodgrass said: "It was just a misunderstanding and I didn't realise I had
to be present in court. It's not a big issue and will be resolved in due
course."
The former Hull winger admitted he felt right at home on West Ham's recent
trip to Dubai - because the weather was as bad as in his native Scotland. He
said. "It was raining a lot, and cold. It felt pretty much like I was back
home in Glasgow. "So the lads were gutted. They had some swimming shorts for
sitting around the pool after training, but there was none of that.
Absolutely none. "Some of the lads had jackets and hats on, it was
unbelievable - something I had never seen in Dubai before. I still had to
use factor 50, mind. "But it was good. We probably trained harder over there
than we did here. Because that was one thing the manager stressed, that we
have to work harder out there. "The only disappointing thing was that we
thought it was going to be hot-weather training, but it was totally
different."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jose Fonte opens up to Graeme Souness about his transfer from Southampton to
West Ham
Last Updated: 05/03/17 8:52pm
SSN

Ahead of a Monday Night Football clash with Chelsea, Jose Fonte has opened
up to Graeme Souness about his transfer from Southampton to West Ham. Fonte
sealed an £8m move to the Hammers in January but believes he was unfairly
criticised for his departure. Here, the former Southampton captain speaks
candidly to ex-Saints manager Souness on why he decided to leave St Mary's
and what went on behind the scenes in a complicated transfer affair…

Graeme Souness: Jose, why West Ham?

Jose Fonte: In the summer, there were a few offers, including West Ham. But
in January they came back in and it was a no brainer for me because of the
size of the club and the move to the Olympic Stadium. The passionate fans
they have and also the ambition of the manager and the chairman. It was an
easy descion to choose West Ham. London is also closer to my wife's side of
the family - so provided her more help to raise the kids. Everything made
sense and I'm extremely happy.

GS: It looks exciting times at West Ham. They look to have a chance to
become a big club.

JF: They didn't have the easiest of starts but it's coming along really
nicely now. Obviously with the Dimitri Payet situation - but the transfer
window is over now and we got Robert Snodgrass, who is a great player. I
look around the dressing room and I see a lot of talent and a great manager.
I see a lot of team spirit and a lot of possibilities - not only for this
year but also for next season. We're in great shape for the future - it's an
exciting time.

GS: Let's talk about the London Stadium. It's the same size pitch, same
players, same ball - but what do the players say about the early form at the
stadium?

JF: When things don't go well, you try to find any kind of excuse. What we
have to get in our head is that it's the same for both teams. You don't want
to play in League One and League Two pitches - you want to play on a massive
pitch in the Olympic Stadium with beautiful grass. That's where you're going
to express yourself in good conditions. For me, it's a question of 'get on
with it' and accept it. Come up with a gameplan, with a solution and that's
what we've been trying to do. It's a big change from the old ground but we
are growing as a club. We know where we want to go and want we want to
become a big club - we can't have excuses about the stadium. It's a great
stadium. When we are playing well, it's fantastic.

GS: You had a great European Championships and came back to Southampton -
what happened next?

JF: I spoke to the club and said there could be possibilities [to move] and
I would like the club to consider it.

GS: Seven years with the club shows you were a good servant. Did the club
not get that? If someone is coming to you offering a better deal, then
Southampton had to understand that you was in demand. I think you can't have
enough experienced players in the dressing room - you won't have a
successful team if you don't have people like yourself, good seasoned pros
that put the lesser likes in the dressing room in their place before it
becomes a problem.

JF: I appreciate what the club had done for me since day one but we all have
to take care of our families. There were offers that came in that would take
care of my family in ways that Southampton weren't willing to. It's a
difficult situation. I arrived in the Premier League late at 29 years old -
you still have to live 50 years after football. You do your best for
yourself and your family. You've got to fight for what you believe. I
respected the club, but they weren't willing to find an agreement and reach
a compromise.

GS: Is it harsh if the crowd give you a bad reception?

JF: I understand. But they don't know all the facts. What they can't forget
is the seven seasons and all the success we had together. That's the main
thing we should remember and relish. It's a disappointing ending with the
things said about me and the situation - which was not true. It was
disappointing to see that.

GS: The club want to portray you as a bad guy - that's the reality. You're
the one that wanted to leave - you're the one that wanted to make all the
demands. That's how it appears to someone who doesn't understand the game.
Supporters out there will say Jose left us in the lurch as we lost Virgil
[van Dijk] to injury and we were short in the cup final. But your conscience
is completely clear of it?

JF: It's completely clear. When I see all over the news that I submitted a
transfer request to leave the club - that's disappointing. That never
happened. There was an interview from the club; from a press conference that
I demanded to leave, which then the press took it as a transfer request and
I wonder where is it?

As I said before, in the summer there were possibilities of leaving - that's
normal, everyone fights for their own interests to get the best possible
outcome for yourself. To say that I wrote an official transfer request to
the club, that's a lie. And also that I refused to train and I wasn't being
a good captain? That's a complete lie. I've always given my best to that
club. That's the main thing the fans should know. My conscious is very
clear.

GS: Do you think you've been unfairly criticised in the manner of how you
left Southampton?

JF: No doubt. You need to know all the facts. It's tough to see in the press
you've put in a transfer request, which I didn't. I never wrote a letter to
the manager or the club saying I want to leave because even when that came
out in the beginning of January I didn't have a club to go to, so why would
I put in a transfer request?

It was tough to see that and to hear people saying bad stuff about you when
it's a lie. But this is football - you learn how to deal with things like
this. At least I have the opportunity to put it right.

GS: What do you want to say to the Southampton supporters that think you
forced your way out of there? I've managed the club and lived there for 12
years - it's a fabulous area to live in - it must have been a wrench. What
is your message?

JF: The real fans know I've given everything for the club. They know
everytime I step on the pitch and put on the shirt, I give blood, sweat and
tears. I've played with broken toes, broken ribs. I've done all I could to
help the team go from League One to the Premier League.

All I want them to know is that what they see in the press about me putting
in a transfer request and I refused to train, that's all lies. I've never
rejected to train or play. I want to play every game and every minute. I was
a good professional as the manager said in the press. It's hard to see when
people are saying I'm a bad egg or an apple.

GS: Where was that coming from?

JF: I saw some things in the press that people had heard I was not being a
good captain. That's very disappointing.

GS: Football is a small world and I hear a lot, especially being in the
media and I've heard you were a good captain.

JF: It's something I give importance to. You have to be an example. I was in
a difficult situation but considering things since the summer I think I
behaved in a good way. It wasn't the ending everyone wanted but it happened,
so we have to move on.

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West Ham v Chelsea preview: Blues travel east for spicy London derby
Last Updated: 05/03/17 6:09pm
SSN

Premier League title favourites Chelsea travel east to take on West Ham
United in what should be a spicy London derby on Monday Night Football.

Only four teams in Premier League history have had more points at this stage
of a season than Chelsea's 63 points. The only team with 63 or more points
after 26 games not to go on to win the title was Arsenal in 2007/08.

Chelsea have won 17 of 19 Premier League games against teams outside top-six
this season but have lost their last two away games against West Ham.

One of those defeats came earlier in the season when the Hammers knocked
Chelsea out of the EFL Cup.

Team news

Andy Carroll is set to replace Michail Antonio in the West Ham squad.

Striker Carroll is fit after missing the last two games with a groin injury
but winger Antonio is suspended following his red card at Watford last
weekend.

Diafra Sakho (back) and Angelo Ogbonna (knee) are the only injury absentees.


Eden Hazard is expected to be fit for Chelsea despite a knock.

Hazard was on the receiving end of a kick in training, but head coach
Antonio Conte expects the Belgium playmaker to be available at the London
Stadium.

Chelsea, leaders by 10 points entering into this weekend's fixtures, have no
other injury concerns.

Ways to watch

Coverage of Monday Night Football starts at 7pm live on Sky Sports 1 with
presenter David Jones joined by Jamie Carragher and special guest Frank
Lampard and you can also watch all the action in UHD via Sky Q.

Match stats

This is the first league meeting between the sides at the London Stadium -
the Hammers won just two of their last 10 Premier League games against
Chelsea at Upton Park (D1 L7).

Chelsea have lost only two of their last 21 Premier League games against
West Ham United (W15 D4).

However, the Hammers eliminated Chelsea from the EFL Cup at the fourth round
stage this season; winning 2-1 at the London Stadium.

Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier League,
suffering defeat by Arsenal in September and Tottenham in January, while
beating Crystal Palace in the other game.

Carroll has scored five goals in his last three home London derbies in the
Premier League.

Carroll is one goal away from his 50th strike in the Premier League and has
scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea.

Cesc Fabregas recorded his 102nd Premier League assist in what was his 300th
Premier League game last weekend. He needs one more to move outright second
ahead of Frank Lampard (also 102).

Fabregas has already matched his total of assists from last season (seven)
and assisted twice in last Premier League game against West Ham in March
2016.

Manuel Lanzini has scored in seven of his 11 Premier League London derby
appearances (seven goals). He's scored four goals in 38 Premier League
appearances against non-London sides.

The suspended Antonio has been involved in more Premier League goals than
any other West Ham player this season (11).

Diego Costa has scored 48 goals in 78 Premier League appearances. Should he
score two or more goals in this game, he'll be the fifth quickest to 50
goals in the competition after Andrew Cole (65 apps), Alan Shearer (66
apps), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68 apps) and Fernando Torres (72 apps).

Merson's prediction

Chelsea look like a well-oiled machine at the moment which is showing now
signs of any faults. They did lose to West Ham at the London Stadium in the
EFL Cup earlier in the season, but I do not expect a repeat performance. I
expect Chelsea to win this game. West Ham have struggled in front of their
own fans and are a better side away from home.

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

Betting

Chelsea are just 8/13 with Sky Bet to take another crucial step towards the
Premier League title by beating West Ham, who are 17/4 to upset their rivals
with a win and 3/1 to hold out for a draw.

Conte's men headed into the weekend as 1/8 shots to lift the trophy while
their hosts are 8/11 to secure a top-half finish. Costa heads the first
goalscorer betting at 100/30 with Andy Carroll considered the hosts' main
threat at 15/2, while the strike duo are 9/2 both to find the net.

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Chelsea and West Ham fans told to behave themselves by Antonio Conte after
trouble at EFL Cup meeting
The Blues return to the London Stadium on Monday and their manager is
praying for no repeat of the ugly scenes that marred October visit
The Mirror
BYADRIAN KAJUMBA
22:30, 5 MAR 2017

Antonio Conte has urged both sets of supporters to be on their best
behaviour at the London Stadium on Monday night, insisting "the country
deserves this."
Chelsea 's EFL Cup visit to West Ham in October was marred by ugly scenes
and fan clashes towards the end of the home side's 2-1 win. Ahead of the
champions-elect's visit to the Hammers in the Premier League, Blues boss
Conte said: "Last time wasn't good. "I hope in this game our fans, the West
Ham fans, enjoy totally the game and find the right atmosphere. "In England,
it's very strange for me to talk about this: Usually in every game you find
the right atmosphere. The last one against West Ham there was an exception.
"But I hope to find a good atmosphere in the stadium. I think the players,
the club, the country deserves this." Conte also admitted it's hard not
being in the Champions League this season and being forced to watch on from
the outside. That was one big reason behind his recent trip to Manchester to
take in City's epic 5-3 win against Monaco in the first leg of a last-16
tie. The former Juventus coach said: "Yes, it hurts to watch games on the
television with Chelsea not involved. "I watched the Manchester City game
against Monaco live, because I wanted to breathe it in, the right
atmosphere, and feel this type of game. "In the future, I hope to sit and
watch games live," said the Italian, who also laughed when asked if he was
also there to run the rule over some of Monaco's highly-rated players.
Chelsea are certain to return to UEFA's elite club competition next season,
and Conte said: "Yes, yes, I miss being in the Champions League. For me and
my players, yes. The Champions League must be an appointment for us every
year. It must be our house. "For this reason, we are putting our strength
into playing in the Champions League next season. It's a great competition
for every single player, club and manager, and we want to stay there and try
to fight to win it. "We started our season trying to fight until the end to
win the title, and to try to fight until the end to be in the right position
to go into next season's Champions League. This was our target. "It wasn't
easy to start the season and know six strong teams fight for the title and
Champions League.
"Don't forget, in this six teams, two won't play in the Champions League
next season. They have to go into the Europa League, which is a bit
different to the Champions League. "But now this league is very, very
difficult. To win the title and also find a place to play the Champions
League is not easy."

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West Ham skipper Mark Noble is the positive side of player power, says boss
Slaven Bilic
The Hammers' captain does much more than wear the armband for his boyhood
club and makes life easier for the manager
The Mirror
BYSTEVE STAMMERS
22:30, 4 MAR 2017

Slaven Bilic is only too willing to confirm there is player power at West
Ham . But rather than the contentious kind which was alleged to have played
such a significant part in the departure of Claudio Ranieri from champions
Leicester less than a year after delivering their shock title triumph, the
West Ham manager welcomes the influence imposed on his squad by Mark Noble .
Noble is captain of the club, but he is more than a token leader who wears
an armband, leads the team out of the tunnel and shakes hand with the
opposition at the toss-up. He is Bilic's man in the dressing room — the one
Bilic trusts to revive morale when results have reflected sporadic success
in the teething problems evident since the relocation to the London Stadium.
"He has been very, very important for me," said Bilic, who is looking for a
repeat of October's home EFL Cup win over Chelsea when the sides meet at the
London Stadium again in the Premier League on Monday night. "You need the
core if your team to be English or British but the captain is the most
important. I can only spend a certain amount of time with the players but
not always in the dressing room where Mark is. "It is crucial to have a
captain like him. I am lucky with Mark." Noble – apart from loan spells at
Hull and Ipswich during his fledgling years – has been a permanent fixture
at West Ham. To Bilic, that has produced a family-like tie that means Noble
feels setbacks more than anyone at the club. "I hope every players hurts
personally when things go wrong," said Bilic. "In Mark's case, it is
big-time personal." Noble, 29, will probably never realise his dream of
representing his country at full international level. But Bilic said: "He
should have been in the Euro 2016 squad. "But now we have a new England
manager. If Mark continues to play well, he should have a great chance of
being picked."

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