Hammers sign off with Burnley win
WHUFC.com
2016/17 signed off in style; West Ham United's final day 2-1 win at against
Burnley at Turf Moor ensured an eleventh-place finish for Slaven Bilic's
side in the Premier League table. Sofiane Feghouli's first half equaliser
came before Andre Ayew bagged a sixth goal of the season – his fifth away
from home – in the second period to cancel out Sam Vokes' opener and secure
maximum points for the visitors to end the campaign on a high note. It was a
game the Hammers went into on the back of a defeat, but the victory meant
Bilic's men ended the term with just one defeat in their final seven
matches, and impressive end-of-term record. In the sixth minute, Feghouli
began the half as he meant to go on, testing Tom Heaton in the Burnley goal
when the ball broke to him on the edge of the box before his volley was too
central on goal. Four minutes later, it was Burnley's turn to scare their
opponents – Stephen Ward delivered from the left, but his dangerous cross
was just beyond Vokes' reach. A Tarwowski header was glanced over soon
after, but on 23 minutes, the hosts had the lead. Andre Gray raced down the
right, and crossing low, the ball found its way to Vokes – who tapped in
comfortably from eight yards – via Scott Arfield. The lead did not last
long, though. An instant response from Slaven Bilic's men saw them draw
level when Feghouli slotted past Heaton inside the penalty area. And it was
at the end of a lovely move – Fernandes' patient passing in midfield
eventually gave Andre Ayew a chance to flick for the Algerian, something he
duly did, allowing the ex-Valencia man to find the back of the net. Five
minutes later, a golden chance again delivered itself for Feghouli – with
space and time to find the target from 18 yards, the winger smashed over
with the goal at his mercy. Shortly before the break, Gray flicked wide for
the hosts but they made their way back down the tunnel level.
The second half began with little goalmouth action, though the Hammers had
the better of the attacking play, winning a number of corners and causing
problems particularly down the right through Sam Byram. And, pushing for the
winner, it finally came with 72 minutes on the clock. Edimilson Fernandes,
impressive throughout for the away side, lined up a cracking shot from
range, though Heaton was equal to the effort, tipping it onto the crossbar.
The ball would only fall for Ayew, however, to score another important goal
for West Ham in a strong end to the season for Ghanaian. There was still
time for Manuel Lanzini to curl a free-kick narrowly over, and Declan Rice
was handed a first team debut as he came on for the final minutes, but
Burnley could not test Adrian in the visiting goal.
And so West Ham ended the season with a win, a win that sees them finish
eleventh in the Premier League table, just eight goals outside the top half.
Burnley: Heaton, Lowton, Long, Tarkowski, Ward, Brady (Gudmundsson 66),
Hendrick, Westwood (Defour 78), Arfield, Gray (Barnes 78), Vokes.
Subs not used: Pope, Flanagan, Darikwa, Agyei.
Goals: Vokes 23
Bookings: Lowton 27, Gudmundsson 86
West Ham United: Adrian, Byram, Fonte, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell (Rice
90+1), Fernandes, Lanzini, Feghouli, Snodgrass, Ayew.
Subs not used: Randolph, Fletcher, Quina, Makasi, Kemp.
Goals: Feghouli 27
Bookings: Collins 18, Lanzini 43
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Ayew - It's great to finish strongly
WHUFC.com
Andre Ayew was delighted to score the Hammers' final winning goal of the
2016/17 season as the visitors won 2-1 at Burnley
Sofiane Feghouli had grabbed an equaliser after Sam Vokes gave the Clarets
the lead early on
The victory saw Slaven Bilic's side finish the season in eleventh in the
Premier League
West Ham United's 2-1 win over Burnley on the final day at Turf Moor was a
great way to end the season, according to match winner Andre Ayew. The
Ghanaian forward scored in the 72nd minute to sign off the 2016/17 in style,
bagging his sixth of the campaign – a fifth goal away from London Stadium
for the Hammers.
It came after Sofiane Feghouli had drawn the visitors level following Sam
Vokes' opener, and Slaven Bilic's side dominated a second half they could
have scored further goals in. The victory meant the Claret and Blues
finished eleventh in the Premier League table, though had results in the
past swung one way rather than the other, Ayew highlighted it could have
been even better. "We are happy with today's three points and to finish on a
good note," the striker said. "The whole season has been difficult so we're
happy to end like this. "Overall, the season has been difficult, but we're
just a point away from eighth spot at the end of the day. We were quite
disappointed because there were games where we definitely could have had
more points. "You take away from it that you need to win your points and
take your chances and learn from this season now. We'll learn, and prepare
for the next one." Ayew scored when Edimilson Fernandes' long-range effort
was saved well by Tom Heaton, though the keeper's stop cannoned off the
crossbar before falling perfectly for the Hammers' record signing to nod in.
And it was a case of strikers' instinct, said the forward who celebrated in
front of the packed away end. "My goal for sure was right place, right time.
I had a similar opportunity at Stoke and missed it, so I'm happy to score
today and hopefully now it's the end of the season that will set us up for
next season. "We are going to have holidays now and prepare for next season.
"I think this year we have been unlucky with injuries and we didn't start
the season well. We had the Europa League also, and we didn't manage to
qualify, but after the start we had, we got to a point where we managed to
turn things around, so it's been a good end."
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Slav - It's nice to finish with a win
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic praised his players for finishing a challenging 2016/17 Premier
League season on a real high with a deserved 2-1 win at Burnley. West Ham
United completed a rollercoaster campaign on a run of one defeat in seven
matches and with a fifth away victory courtesy of goals from Sofiane
Feghouli and Andre Ayew.
Despite being without a host of senior players absent through injuries and
season-ending surgeries, the Hammers produced a display full of energy and
commitment to become just the sixth team to leave Turf Moor with all three
points. Victory in east Lancashire secured an eleventh-place finish with 45
points, just a point behind Southampton in eighth – a satisfactory return
after West Ham lost five of their opening six Premier League fixtures. "We
wanted to finish positive and I think we deserved to beat them and it's
always nice to win the last game because this result stays," the manager
confirmed. "You can't make it up in a week's time or whatever, so that's why
I'm really pleased for the guys. "We deserved to win. We knew that we would
have problems when they were playing the ball straight forward, like every
other club here, because they are really good in that way with presence and
delivery. They were playing balls into the channels or winning good second
balls and we knew we were going to struggle, but we coped well with that in
the main. "We tried to match them, and we were coming out of the situations
in the midfield with Edimilson Fernandes and Manuel Lanzini with the ball at
their feet. "They bossed the game and were playing very nice football and
creating a lot of clear-cut chances, switching the play in dangerous areas
and crossing well into the box. I'm really pleased with the way we played
and it's good to finish the season with a win. "I have to praise the referee
also before the second goal for playing a double advantage. He didn't give
us a foul two times, he let the ball go and I have to praise him for good
refereeing. So, overall, it's good to finish the season like this."
When asked to reflect on the season as a whole, Bilic's response was
typically honest but felt his squad had risen to the numerous challenges put
in front of them.
"We thought we were going to do better but, considering everything, and I
didn't want to talk about it during the season because we wanted to stay
positive and all that, we had so many obstacles and so many injuries and so
many surgeries, it was not normal. "Then, although the move to the new
stadium is the best thing the Club has done in the long term, it was always
going to take some time to settle in, like it does for every club. "It was a
tough season with its ups and downs but at the end, we did it and I have to
praise the guys because we never lost belief, we showed character and we
showed quality and finished better, like we wanted to. "We were one point
from the top eight and in this league it's not a season to talk about hating
it because it's not a very, very bad season, but we've done it."
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Slaven Bilic believes several factors hindered West Ham this season
Last Updated: 21/05/17 7:59pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic insisted he thought West Ham's season would have panned out
better, but believes several factors hindered their progress after his
side's 2-1 final day win at Burnley. Victory in Lancashire elevated the
Hammers to an 11th-placed finish and earned them some welcome, additional
prize money. Nonetheless, after an up-and-down-season, there is speculation
that the Hammers boss' position could be under threat in the close season.
Bilic admitted that he is aware that many expected better from his side this
campaign, but believes a new stadium and a long injury list haven't helped
matters. "It is always nice to win on the last day," Bilic told Sky Sports.
"I am pleased for the players. "We thought that we were going to do better
[this season]. I didn't want to talk about that in the season, I wanted to
stay positive. "We had so many obstacles, so many injuries. We had eight
surgeries, which is not normal. "Although the move to the new stadium is the
best thing that has ever happened to the club in the long term, like any
club, it is going to take time to settle. "It has been difficult. If you are
talking about England, it happened with Arsenal, it happened with Man City,
Southampton when they moved to their new stadiums. You need time. "It is
very hard to get that Upton Park feeling, but it is going to get better and
better. "The game against Liverpool last week, there was a bit of
complacency, because we thought we had done the job against Spurs. I am
expecting to better next season, of course. "It has been a tough season with
ups and downs, but we have finished it now, and I want to praise the guys.
We finished 11th, we wanted to finish higher, but we are just one point away
from eighth. In this league, it is not a very, very bad season."
Despite an outlay of over £70m on players this campaign, Bilic was also
adamant that some first-team additions are needed in the summer transfer
window.
"I think next season every club is going to be busy [in transfer market],"
Bilic added. "Even Barcelona want to improve. Today we showed that we have a
good squad of players. Some players maybe will go [in the summer] and we
will replace them. "Today, we were without eight players and still looked
good. If you are talking about the squad I am happy with the squad, but we
need a few players to improve our first XI. We have our targets."
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Burnley 1-2 West Ham: Visitors come from behind to finish season on a high
By Pete Hall
Last Updated: 21/05/17 5:45pm
SSN
Andre Ayew scored the winner as West Ham came from behind to win 2-1 at
Burnley and finish a tumultuous season on a high, claiming some extra prize
money in the process. Sam Vokes put Burnley in front in the 23rd minute as
he slotted home Andre Gray's cross, but the Hammers were level four minutes
later after Sofiane Feghouli finished off a fine move. Ayew headed home from
close range in the 72nd minute to complete the turnaround and put the
Hammers on course for just a third win in 14 league outings, relieving some
of the pressure on manager Slaven Bilic's shoulders. he three points means
the Hammers climbed up table to finish the season in 11th to earn themselves
that additional prize money, while Burnley missed the chance boost the
coffers, dropping to finish in 16th. Burnley brought Gray back into the side
in place of Ashley Barnes, and the Clarets hitman almost had an immediate
impact, but he got his lofted effort all wrong with Adrian stranded, and the
ball drifted harmlessly wide. Down the other end, a man back in the Hammers
side - Feghouli - brought the ball down on his chest before being denied by
a smart stop from Tom Heaton. James Tarkowski wasted a golden chance to
break the deadlock, but could not guide his header on target from close
range. The home crowd didn't have to wait long for a goal, however, as Gray
burst down the right, fed the ball across for the onrushing Scott Arfield,
who missed it completely, but Vokes was on hand to net his 10th of the
season just behind.
Less than four minutes later we were back level again, as Feghouli finished
off a fine move. Angelo Ogbonna fed the ball into Ayew, who flicked the ball
through for Feghouli first time, before the impressive former Valencia man
fired home. Feghouli then should have put the Hammers in front, but blasted
over with the goal at his mercy following a fortunate ricochet. After the
break, the tempo slowed somewhat as neither side could conjure any real
openings of note. It took until 18 minutes from time for the half's first
goalmouth action, and it proved to be the game's deciding moment. Edimilson
Fernandes saw his thunderous effort brilliantly saved by Tom Heaton, but he
could only beat the ball up into the air, it came down, hit the crossbar,
and landed right on Ayew's head, a few yards out, and he just stood there,
let the ball hit him and go into the net. Manuel Lanzini curled a free-kick
just over the top as the Hammers went in search of a third, but the two
goals proved to be enough for a final day flourish.
Player ratings
Burnley: Heaton 6, Long 6, Lawton 6, Tarkowski 6, Ward 6, Brady 5, Westwood
4, Hendrick 5, Arfield 5, Vokes 6, Gray 6.
Subs: Defour 6, Barnes 6, Gudmundsson 6.
West Ham: Adrian 6, Cresswell 6, Collins 6, Ogbonna 6, Byram 7, Fonte 6,
Feghouli 8, Lanzini 6, Snodgrass 5, Fernandes 5, Ayew 8.
Subs: Rice N/A, Fletcher 6
Man of the match: Sofiane Feghouli
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Burnley 1-2 West Ham: Andre Ayew hits winner to give Slaven Billic ends
season on a high
Ayew netted to complete West Ham's comeback on 72 minutes
The Mirror
BYDAVID ANDERSON
16:58, 21 MAY 2017UPDATED18:27, 21 MAY 2017
Slaven Bilic's meeting with David Sullivan today should be less awkward
after this. Bilic would not have relished sitting down with the West Ham
co-owner if they had followed up the debacle at home to Liverpool with
another defeat. But he was bullish after a first away win since February
ended the Hammers' difficult season with just one loss in seven games. Bilic
argued West Ham would benefit from this challenging season, which saw them
blighted by injury, struggle to settle at their new London Stadium home and
Dimitri Payet jump ship mid-season. "I'm not bothered about that," said the
Hammers boss in reference to today's meeting. "I'm happy with the way we
finished the season. "We had eight major surgeries and we've had 10 players
who were out, each one of them for a minimum of two-and-a-half-months. Ten
of them. That's scary, it's too much. "So considering that and considering
the move to the new stadium, which is long term the best thing this club has
ever done, we've done well. "It's not a season to hail as the best one. It's
nowhere near the season of last year, but there is something between great
and bad and we have done it because we never lost belief. "It wasn't
enjoyable, but individually and as a team, I'm sure we will benefit from
this season a lot."
Bilic's squad was so stretched he was only able to name six substitutes,
including the 18-year-old Declan Rice, who made his debut in stoppage time.
But the Hammers still possessed enough quality to win and Andre Ayew stood
out. Ayew made the first and scored the winner and West Ham's season might
have been better if he had not been seriously injured on his debut in
August. He produced a deft backheel to put Sofiane Feghouli through to
equalise on 27 minutes - four minutes after Sam Vokes had put Burnley ahead
with his 10th Premier League goal. West Ham's defence went to sleep and when
Scott Arfield missed Andre Gray's cross, the ball fell for the unmarked
Vokes to score. Sean Dyche felt his side should have won the game in the
first half and Gray and James Tarkowski missed chances, although Ashley
Westwood was lucky not to be sent off for a high tackle on James Collins.
The Hammers made them pay as they took control of the game and netted the
winner on 72 minutes. Tom Heaton did well to push Edimilson Fernandes' shot
onto his bar, only for the ball to rebound to Ayew to nod home from the
close range. Still a pub near Turf Moor has offered Dyche free drinks for
keeping Burnley up in the top flight for the first time since 1975. "I might
just have half a shandy," he grinned.
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West Ham to pay just a fraction of business rates on London Stadium
Telegraph.co.uk
21 MAY 2017 • 6:57PM
West Ham United will pay just a fraction of the £2.3m annual business rates
on their London Stadium home, it has been revealed. In a further blow to the
taxpayer, it has emerged that the club will pay additional rates on just the
retail and office space in the stadium they secured for just £2.5m a year in
rent.
The stadium, formerly known as the Olympic Stadium, is owned by E20 Stadium,
a joint venture between the publicly funded London Legacy Development
Corporation and Newham Council. The agreement that gave West Ham the stadium
has already been dubbed the "deal of the century", and has faced intense
scrutiny since it emerged that the costs of policing, stewarding, heating
and pitch maintenance would all be covered by the taxpayer. It was revealed
last week that a £20m deal for Vodafone to sponsor the London Stadium had
collapsed
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, May 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st May 2017
Preview – Burnley
WHUFC.com
All the need-to-know information ahead of Sunday's final day trip to Burnley...
When and Where?
Burnley v West Ham United
Premier League
Sunday 21 May 2017, 3pm BST
Turf Moor
What's the Story?
Dead rubber? Not a bit of it.
Sunday's final day game between Burnley and the Hammers may come around with both teams sure of their Premier League safety, but there is still plenty to play for.
With just three points separating Leicester in eleventh and Watford in 16th, a finish in any of those positions is possible for both teams, with Burnley able to drop as low as 17th should results go against them.
That equates to millions of pounds difference in terms of Premier League prize money, not to mention pride, so both sides will be keen to end the campaign on a high.
West Ham secured their safety with their 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur two weeks ago, but could not build on that last Sunday as Liverpool left London Stadium with a 4-0 win under their belts.
Burnley have made sure their top flight stay will extend into another season with four points from their last three games, coming from a 2-0 victory at Crystal Palace and 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
However, like the Hammers, they also tasted defeat last time out, as Junior Stanislas and Josh King struck to give Bournemouth the points by the odd goal in three.
When West Ham met Burnley at home earlier this season, the Hammers celebrated a vital 1-0 victory with Mark Noble scoring the goal, following up to knock home after Tom Heaton saved his penalty at the end of the first half.
Team news
The Hammers' injury list for this game is an extensive one, with Winston Reid the latest to join the absentees after he underwent surgery this week on a knee injury which he had been playing through for some time.
He joins Cheikhou Kouyate and Mark Noble in going under the surgeon's knife in recent weeks, but all three should return in time for the start of pre-season.
Michail Antonio (hamstring), Pedro Obiang (ankle) and Diafra Sakho (back) remain out, but Angelo Ogbonna returned to the squad last week following his knee injury and is available for selection at Turf Moor.
For Burnley, Sean Dyche has far fewer injury concerns, but the three he does have are significant.
Standout centre-backs Michael Keane (calf) and Ben Mee (shin) are both doubts, which would mean Irishman Kevin Long and James Tarkowski will deputise.
Otherwise, experienced midfielders Dean Marney (knee) and Joey Barton (suspension) are the Clarets' only other absentees.
Player head-to-head
Vokes v Ayew
How do I get to the game?
Train services to Burnley are available via a number of routes, from London Euston changing at Preston, from Euston changing in Manchester, or from Kings Cross and a change at Leeds. Click here to plan your journey.
News on the roads can be found by clicking here.
A cloudy day is forecast for Burnley on Sunday, with temperature at kick-off of 16C (61F).
How can I watch the game?
The match is not being broadcast live in the UK. However, if you are tuning in from abroad you may be able to watch in your territory. Check our widget below for full details.
You can follow all the action as it happens live right here on whufc.com. Our Match Centre has live audio commentary, social media updates and photos. Get involved in the conversation on social using #BURWHU
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Lanzini receives first Argentina call-up
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has received his first Argentina call-up
The midfielder has been in fine form for the Hammers this season, scoring eight goals, including the recent winner over Spurs at London Stadium
The 24-year-old is in the squad for friendly fixtures against Brazil and Singapore
West Ham United midfielder Manuel Lanzini has been called-up to the Argentina national team squad for the first time.
The creative 24-year-old has been rewarded for his two outstanding seasons in English football and will join up with the South Americans for their upcoming fixtures against Brazil and Singapore.
Lanzini, signed from Al Jazira Club prior to the start of last season, initially on loan before he made his move permanent, has represented La Albiceleste at U20 level before, though never the senior team.
The West Ham talent was also due to represent his country at last summer's Olympic games in Rio, but was forced to pull out with a knee injury.
He will now have the chance to turn out alongside the likes of Barcelona star Lionel Messi and Juventus' Paulo Dybala – who are also in the squad – when Argentina face first five-time World Cup winners Brazil in Melbourne on Friday 6 June before travelling to Singapore to take on the hosts four days later.
Both fixtures are international friendlies, but Lanzini will be keen to impress ahead of the nation's 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay, Venezuela and Peru next season.
Lanzini has had a fine season in Claret and Blue this term, performing as one of the Hammers' standout players, scoring eight Premier League goals and subsequently bettering last season's tally of six.
The midfielder has also won over the Claret and Blue Army with his incredible London derby record – nine of Lanzini's 16 West Ham United goals have come against clubs from the capital.
Further, three have been against rivals Tottenham Hotspur, most recently in the London Stadium meeting between the sides earlier this month, when the diminutive midfielder's goal was the only strike in the 1-0 victory.
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Hammers to target quality over quantity
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic says West Ham United will target quality over quantity in the summer transfer window.
The Hammers signed a dozen senior players a year ago, but the manager says they will look to bring in a smaller number of top-class players to bolster his already strong squad.
However, Bilic conceded that competition for the small and select band of players who are both available and within the Club's budget will be fierce.
"We want to improve," he confirmed. "We don't need squad players and all that as we have enough of them. OK, if someone goes we can refresh the team, but what we need is a couple of real players who can improve our game.
"I ain't gonna talk about names or even talk about positions now, but we are aiming to do it, like I'm pretty sure any other team in any other league is planning to do.
"You have all your wishes and all your plans, no matter how much money you have, on the one hand, but on the other I spoke to most of the other managers after the games in my office and it wasn't a surprise to me most of the players on our list are on the lists of ten other clubs in the Premier League. We are all aim for the same players!"
The aim, therefore, is to spot and secure the game-changers before he becomes a must-have target for 'bigger' clubs, as West Ham did with the likes of Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini and Cheikhou Kouyate in recent years.
"It's not easy," said Bilic. "Dimitri Payet was like hitting the jackpot! When it was done it was done in one week, like under cover or under the radar. We did it before the big teams even started to think about it.
"Those kind of things are the best. Those kind of players, they lift your whole team and your season. Then the clubs who do those kind of deals they usually finish high. But it's very difficult to find them."
Bilic also claimed West Ham will not make the same mistake in the summer transfer window as they did a year ago by putting all their eggs in one basket for certain individuals.
The Hammers manager admitted that the Club spent too long chasing Alexandre Lacazette and, when they failed to capture the Lyon and France striker, their back-up options had already been snapped up by rivals.
At the same time, Bilic also talked of the need to be realistic when targeting potential new signings.
"We are not looking at that level, take out those," he said. "We are not looking for the [Antoine] Griezmanns. We know it's out of our range to get them. We would like them but we are realistic.
"Last year we tried to do something like that. We were in talks with Lacazette, and maybe we spent too much time hoping. We spent a lot of time on that. The Board really tried and then it did not happen and, as a result, we missed out on some of our number two and number three choices.
"Our shopping list this time is not similar to Manchester United or to Chelsea or Liverpool."
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Byram - We want to reward the fans
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram wants to reward the Claret and Blue Army with a season-ending victory at Burnley on Sunday afternoon.
West Ham United travel to Turf Moor knowing a victory could see them finish eleventh in the Premier League at the end of a long and, at times, challenging campaign.
One constant throughout has been the loyal and vociferous supporters who have travelled 2,859 miles to cheer their team on at the Hammers' 19 away top-flight matches. Byram says their presence will be a huge incentive to claim victory in Lancashire.
"Being a professional and being competitive and training and wanting to win every day, I think that's the main thing," he said, when asked how the Hammers would find motivation for Sunday's fixture.
"It's still a game at the end of the day and everyone inside the dressing room wants to win and get the best out of each other.
"To add to that, we've got a lot of fans travelling a long way and we don't want to disappoint them either. It's definitely going to be one where we're looking to finish high and with a win."
West Ham will need to play well at Turf Moor, where Burnley have claimed 33 of their 40 points and know another home win would see them leapfrog Slaven Bilic's side in the final Premier League table.
"We know they are very solid at home and are a good team, but we obviously want to try to keep a clean sheet and take our chances when we can," Byram confirmed.
Whatever happens at Burnley, Byram believes West Ham have done well to navigate their way through a difficult campaign.
With the stadium move, injuries and the departure of star player Dimitri Payet to contend with, the Hammers have had a lot to deal with, but secured safety comfortably enough in the end.
Now, the No22 is targeting a victory at Turf Moor that will send the squad into the close-season with a spring in their step.
"Last year, despite how well we played and how high we finished, I think it was always going to be a challenge with the new stadium which is very different to Upton Park," he observed.
"We've had a lot of frustrating results and a few games where we've conceded quite a few goals. The last five games, bar Liverpool, we've kept four clean sheets and played well, so I think it goes both ways.
"I definitely feel we are more settled and getting used to playing there [at London Stadium] and the fans are starting to warm to it, so hopefully we can finish on a high against Burnley and start fresh next season.
"There have been a lot of highs and lows as well. Next season, we need to enjoy more positive moments. We've done well to secure safety and in the manner we did against Tottenham in a night match in front of a full house was really good."
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Manager on Matchday
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic pens his thoughts ahead of West Ham United's final match of the 2016/17 Premier League season...
Good morning everyone.
I want to start by thanking every West Ham United fan for their support this season. It has not been easy at times, but you have been there every game, cheering, singing, supporting us and it means a lot.
We are very motivated to finish the season with a victory at Burnley. We are professional and we are prepared and we want to win the game.
We know it will not be easy, though, as Burnley are good at home. They have won most of their points at Turf Moor and will be very keen to finish their own season with a victory in front of their fans.
As you know, we have many injuries at this time. We will be without some senior players, which means we have brought some of our promising young ones with us as part of the squad.
Whatever happens this afternoon, I believe this season will benefit us in the long run, a lot.
Last season was great and it was easy and everybody wanted to give each other a high five and all that, but when you are going through the tough times, you see people's real character.
Even last season, we had a patch before Christmas when we had eight injuries at the same time, when we went on a long run when we didn't win a match, but we didn't lose either.
I thought to myself and said to my staff that was great, because when the other players come back, we are going to be good – and so it turned out.
That was a very important part of the season. This year also, you build your character the best during the tough spells and tough times in every walk of life.
Now, we have had those tough times and with the quality of players we have, the addition of some more this summer, some better performances, and avoiding so many injuries next season, we can be good again.
All that, plus the character that we've built and settling in more at the new stadium makes me very hungry and optimistic for the new season.
Before then, we have one more match to play this season and we will try our best to win it.
While some people say it is a 'dead rubber', there is no such thing in the Premier League. Every position is worth £1.9m in prize money, so a win and finishing a few places higher can help us when it comes to the transfer window this summer.
Thank you all again for your support this season. I have always known how special the West Ham United fans are, and you have proved that again and helped us get over the obstacles that were in our way.
Enjoy the game and enjoy your summer!
Slaven
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Three Key Battles - Burnley
WHUFC.com
West Ham United head into their last Premier League game of the season knowing a win against Burnley at Turf Moor could see them finish as high as eleventh in the league table.
Defeat and an unfortunate swing of other results could potentially see Slaven Bilic's team end the season in 16th, meaning Sunday's Claret showdown is still of huge importance.
At home is where Sean Dyche's side have picked up the majority of their 40 points so far this campaign, but the Hammers have beaten Burnley in the teams' last four meetings and will be confident travelling to Lancashire.
For the last time this campaign, we've taken a look at three players from each side who could be going head-to-head on Sunday…
Lowton v Byram
With the right-backs in action at Turf Moor likely to be Matthew Lowton and Sam Byram, we've had a look at the statistics of the Leeds United academy pair.
Former Aston Villa man Lowton has played the majority of Burnley's fixtures in the top flight this season, and the 27-year-old has a couple of assists to show for it.
Byram, on the other hand, has missed large chunks of the campaign through injury, but has impressed this year, contributing not only going forward but with his defensive duties, as the above statistics show.
The 23-year-old went close to scoring his first Hammers goal in the early stages of the side's last fixture – against Liverpool – and will be hoping for an opportunity to have another crack on Sunday.
Westwood v Nordtveit
In midfield, Ashley Westwood has featured in Burnley's last three matches, while Havard Nordtveit has also seen more game time in the second half of this season.
And the Norwegian Hammer has impressed in the centre of midfield, playing in his natural position after a stint at right-back earlier this term.
The former Borussia Monchengladbach man's stats are good too, with more tackles, clearances and aerials won per game than Burnley's Westwood.
With Mark Noble and Cheikhou Kouyate out the side with injury alongside Spaniard Pedro Obiang, Nordtveit is seizing his chance in the team and will hope to continue to do so at Turf Moor when he lines up against Dyche's outfit.
Vokes v Ayew
Finally, the two goalscorers likely to line up against each other on Sunday are Sam Vokes – who has nine Premier League goals this season – and Andre Ayew, on five for the campaign.
The Ghanaian has been key since he returned from the African Cup of Nations in February, bagging four goals and making two in the 12 Premier League games since.
Vokes, of course, came into the season off the back of a terrific UEFA Euro 2012 campaign with Wales, and he's carried on that excellent form to fire Burnley to safety this season.
With just two wins in 15 since the beginning of February though, the Clarets are in poor form and West Ham will be hoping to take advantage of that to end their season on a high note in the north west.
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West Ham's Slaven Bilic setting his sights high next season
Last Updated: 20/05/17 1:27pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic believes West Ham could be capable of securing a top-six finish in the Premier League next season. The east London club bring their current campaign to an end on Sunday when they travel to Burnley. They currently stand 12th in the table with a realistic chance of improving their position by one spot, although they could also slip down as far as 16th. West Ham have endured a topsy-turvy season which has seen crowd trouble at the London Stadium, as well as the departure of Dimitri Payet in January. Bilic will meet co-owner David Sullivan on Monday and the Hammers boss has already set his sights on a vast improvement in 2017/18. Make no mistake, I enjoyed last season more than this one. The Croatian said: "The ambitions are: the minimum to finish in the top 10, but with the hope or plan to break into the top eight, top seven or top six. "It's going to be very hard, you saw last year that it is possible but you have to tick all of the boxes. You have to have a good transfer window, keep clear of injuries and settle down in the stadium. "It's not going to be blooming all of the time but we feel it's our home. We had some really good performances and some really bad performances there. "This should all help us being better next season, knowing that all the other teams will do the same. "Make no mistake, I enjoyed last season more than this one but you become stronger, not only as a manager or not only as an individual player but you are building the character of the team. "We need a break and rest to prepare for next season but then again, on the other hand, we can talk about that on Monday because I am very, very motivated for this game."
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David Gold issues bleak outlook for West Ham's youth players
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 21/05/17 10:25am
SSN
West Ham co-chairman David Gold has issued a damning outlook for the club's youth players, confirming their prospects of playing in the first-team look bleak.
The Hammers are looking to improve considerably in the summer transfer market after a poor season under Slaven Bilic, and Gold expects their side to be one full of "seasoned internationals".
Follow
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
I think we all have to except that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a PL team full of seasoned international. dg 11:41 AM - 20 May 2017
211 211 Retweets 236 236 likes
Promising youth players such as Reece Oxford and Josh Cullen have been shipped out on loan this season and Gold was forced to respond to fan complaints after celebrating Cullen's part in the League One play-off final with Bradford. He said on Twitter: "I think we all have to (accept) that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a (Premier League) team full of seasoned international(s). "Playing teenagers doesn't guarantee success. Hull came fifth (in number of youngsters played) and got relegated. Chelsea came last and won the league. "Sam (Allardyce) played the teenagers at Nottingham Forest (in 2014) and we got beat 5-0. "Teenagers gain experience by going out on loan to the first (or) second division and the Championship."
Manager Bilic gave several youngsters a chance in the Hammers' ill-fated Europa League qualifying campaign, such as midfielders Marcus Browne and Quina, as well as Oxford and Burke. Bilic also admitted ahead of the team's final game of the season against Burnley that Declan Rice could feature in place of the injured Winston Reid at centre-back.
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West Ham co-owner David Gold slammed by fans after dismissing chances of youngsters breaking into first-team
Gold suggested there were no teenagers ready to break into Slaven Bilic's side and fans reacted angrily
The Mirror
BYLIAM PRENDERVILLE
17:45, 20 MAY 2017
West Ham co-owner David Gold has been slammed by the club's supporters after controversial comments on social media. Gold hit out after being reminded of the lack of action given to youngsters by Slaven Bilic this season. The Hammers are one of six Premier League clubs to not give any minutes to teenagers - a far cry from the 2,140 minutes afforded by Everton boss Ronald Koeman. The likes of Reece Oxford and Burke. both loaned out this term, were individually mentioned but Gold dismissed the chances of any youngster breaking into the first-team. "I think we all have to except that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a PL team full of seasoned international," he wrote on Twitter.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
I think we all have to except that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a PL team full of seasoned international. dg 11:41 AM - 20 May 2017
212 212 Retweets 238 238 likes
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James Corden ✔ @JKCorden
I can't imagine how I'd feel if I was a young player at West Ham reading that from the chairman. https://twitter.com/davidgold/status/865880190156722180 …
2:28 PM - 20 May 2017
1,775 1,775 Retweets 5,748 5,748 likes
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Dean Ashton ✔ @Dean36ashton10
I'd think il go a club where they are willing to give young players a shot! https://twitter.com/jkcorden/status/865922133997768706 …
5:15 PM - 20 May 2017 · Norwich, England
143 143 Retweets 390 390 likes
His comments were met with an angry reaction with celebrity supporter James Corden leading the criticism. Former Hammers striker Dean Ashton also weighed in and suggested such words could lead to academy prospects seeking a move elsewhere. But Gold showed little remorse, first pointing at the success of Chelsea (no minutes to teenagers) as an example of a tried and tested method.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Playing teenagers doesn't guarantee success. Hull came 5th and got relegated. Chelsea came last and won the league. dg https://twitter.com/hammerhexy/status/865850684985536513 …
11:51 AM - 20 May 2017
14 14 Retweets 58 58 likes
Follow
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Sam played the teenagers at Nottingham Forest and we got beat 5-0. dg https://twitter.com/boogiebutler7/status/865863096895721474 …
11:59 AM - 20 May 2017
34 34 Retweets 56 56 likes
Follow
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Teenagers gain experience by going out on loan to the 1st 2nd division and the championship. https://twitter.com/simonbarnes20/status/865962883351445505 …
5:32 PM - 20 May 2017
15 15 Retweets 70 70 likes
He also reminded fans of the humiliating FA Cup defeat at Nottingham Forest, where a young side was thrashed 5-0. Gold wasn't done there and insisted the club's youngsters would be better served out on loan at a lower-league side. West Ham bring a frustrating campaign to a close away at Burnley on Sunday.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
All the need-to-know information ahead of Sunday's final day trip to Burnley...
When and Where?
Burnley v West Ham United
Premier League
Sunday 21 May 2017, 3pm BST
Turf Moor
What's the Story?
Dead rubber? Not a bit of it.
Sunday's final day game between Burnley and the Hammers may come around with both teams sure of their Premier League safety, but there is still plenty to play for.
With just three points separating Leicester in eleventh and Watford in 16th, a finish in any of those positions is possible for both teams, with Burnley able to drop as low as 17th should results go against them.
That equates to millions of pounds difference in terms of Premier League prize money, not to mention pride, so both sides will be keen to end the campaign on a high.
West Ham secured their safety with their 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur two weeks ago, but could not build on that last Sunday as Liverpool left London Stadium with a 4-0 win under their belts.
Burnley have made sure their top flight stay will extend into another season with four points from their last three games, coming from a 2-0 victory at Crystal Palace and 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
However, like the Hammers, they also tasted defeat last time out, as Junior Stanislas and Josh King struck to give Bournemouth the points by the odd goal in three.
When West Ham met Burnley at home earlier this season, the Hammers celebrated a vital 1-0 victory with Mark Noble scoring the goal, following up to knock home after Tom Heaton saved his penalty at the end of the first half.
Team news
The Hammers' injury list for this game is an extensive one, with Winston Reid the latest to join the absentees after he underwent surgery this week on a knee injury which he had been playing through for some time.
He joins Cheikhou Kouyate and Mark Noble in going under the surgeon's knife in recent weeks, but all three should return in time for the start of pre-season.
Michail Antonio (hamstring), Pedro Obiang (ankle) and Diafra Sakho (back) remain out, but Angelo Ogbonna returned to the squad last week following his knee injury and is available for selection at Turf Moor.
For Burnley, Sean Dyche has far fewer injury concerns, but the three he does have are significant.
Standout centre-backs Michael Keane (calf) and Ben Mee (shin) are both doubts, which would mean Irishman Kevin Long and James Tarkowski will deputise.
Otherwise, experienced midfielders Dean Marney (knee) and Joey Barton (suspension) are the Clarets' only other absentees.
Player head-to-head
Vokes v Ayew
How do I get to the game?
Train services to Burnley are available via a number of routes, from London Euston changing at Preston, from Euston changing in Manchester, or from Kings Cross and a change at Leeds. Click here to plan your journey.
News on the roads can be found by clicking here.
A cloudy day is forecast for Burnley on Sunday, with temperature at kick-off of 16C (61F).
How can I watch the game?
The match is not being broadcast live in the UK. However, if you are tuning in from abroad you may be able to watch in your territory. Check our widget below for full details.
You can follow all the action as it happens live right here on whufc.com. Our Match Centre has live audio commentary, social media updates and photos. Get involved in the conversation on social using #BURWHU
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Lanzini receives first Argentina call-up
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has received his first Argentina call-up
The midfielder has been in fine form for the Hammers this season, scoring eight goals, including the recent winner over Spurs at London Stadium
The 24-year-old is in the squad for friendly fixtures against Brazil and Singapore
West Ham United midfielder Manuel Lanzini has been called-up to the Argentina national team squad for the first time.
The creative 24-year-old has been rewarded for his two outstanding seasons in English football and will join up with the South Americans for their upcoming fixtures against Brazil and Singapore.
Lanzini, signed from Al Jazira Club prior to the start of last season, initially on loan before he made his move permanent, has represented La Albiceleste at U20 level before, though never the senior team.
The West Ham talent was also due to represent his country at last summer's Olympic games in Rio, but was forced to pull out with a knee injury.
He will now have the chance to turn out alongside the likes of Barcelona star Lionel Messi and Juventus' Paulo Dybala – who are also in the squad – when Argentina face first five-time World Cup winners Brazil in Melbourne on Friday 6 June before travelling to Singapore to take on the hosts four days later.
Both fixtures are international friendlies, but Lanzini will be keen to impress ahead of the nation's 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay, Venezuela and Peru next season.
Lanzini has had a fine season in Claret and Blue this term, performing as one of the Hammers' standout players, scoring eight Premier League goals and subsequently bettering last season's tally of six.
The midfielder has also won over the Claret and Blue Army with his incredible London derby record – nine of Lanzini's 16 West Ham United goals have come against clubs from the capital.
Further, three have been against rivals Tottenham Hotspur, most recently in the London Stadium meeting between the sides earlier this month, when the diminutive midfielder's goal was the only strike in the 1-0 victory.
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Hammers to target quality over quantity
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic says West Ham United will target quality over quantity in the summer transfer window.
The Hammers signed a dozen senior players a year ago, but the manager says they will look to bring in a smaller number of top-class players to bolster his already strong squad.
However, Bilic conceded that competition for the small and select band of players who are both available and within the Club's budget will be fierce.
"We want to improve," he confirmed. "We don't need squad players and all that as we have enough of them. OK, if someone goes we can refresh the team, but what we need is a couple of real players who can improve our game.
"I ain't gonna talk about names or even talk about positions now, but we are aiming to do it, like I'm pretty sure any other team in any other league is planning to do.
"You have all your wishes and all your plans, no matter how much money you have, on the one hand, but on the other I spoke to most of the other managers after the games in my office and it wasn't a surprise to me most of the players on our list are on the lists of ten other clubs in the Premier League. We are all aim for the same players!"
The aim, therefore, is to spot and secure the game-changers before he becomes a must-have target for 'bigger' clubs, as West Ham did with the likes of Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini and Cheikhou Kouyate in recent years.
"It's not easy," said Bilic. "Dimitri Payet was like hitting the jackpot! When it was done it was done in one week, like under cover or under the radar. We did it before the big teams even started to think about it.
"Those kind of things are the best. Those kind of players, they lift your whole team and your season. Then the clubs who do those kind of deals they usually finish high. But it's very difficult to find them."
Bilic also claimed West Ham will not make the same mistake in the summer transfer window as they did a year ago by putting all their eggs in one basket for certain individuals.
The Hammers manager admitted that the Club spent too long chasing Alexandre Lacazette and, when they failed to capture the Lyon and France striker, their back-up options had already been snapped up by rivals.
At the same time, Bilic also talked of the need to be realistic when targeting potential new signings.
"We are not looking at that level, take out those," he said. "We are not looking for the [Antoine] Griezmanns. We know it's out of our range to get them. We would like them but we are realistic.
"Last year we tried to do something like that. We were in talks with Lacazette, and maybe we spent too much time hoping. We spent a lot of time on that. The Board really tried and then it did not happen and, as a result, we missed out on some of our number two and number three choices.
"Our shopping list this time is not similar to Manchester United or to Chelsea or Liverpool."
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Byram - We want to reward the fans
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram wants to reward the Claret and Blue Army with a season-ending victory at Burnley on Sunday afternoon.
West Ham United travel to Turf Moor knowing a victory could see them finish eleventh in the Premier League at the end of a long and, at times, challenging campaign.
One constant throughout has been the loyal and vociferous supporters who have travelled 2,859 miles to cheer their team on at the Hammers' 19 away top-flight matches. Byram says their presence will be a huge incentive to claim victory in Lancashire.
"Being a professional and being competitive and training and wanting to win every day, I think that's the main thing," he said, when asked how the Hammers would find motivation for Sunday's fixture.
"It's still a game at the end of the day and everyone inside the dressing room wants to win and get the best out of each other.
"To add to that, we've got a lot of fans travelling a long way and we don't want to disappoint them either. It's definitely going to be one where we're looking to finish high and with a win."
West Ham will need to play well at Turf Moor, where Burnley have claimed 33 of their 40 points and know another home win would see them leapfrog Slaven Bilic's side in the final Premier League table.
"We know they are very solid at home and are a good team, but we obviously want to try to keep a clean sheet and take our chances when we can," Byram confirmed.
Whatever happens at Burnley, Byram believes West Ham have done well to navigate their way through a difficult campaign.
With the stadium move, injuries and the departure of star player Dimitri Payet to contend with, the Hammers have had a lot to deal with, but secured safety comfortably enough in the end.
Now, the No22 is targeting a victory at Turf Moor that will send the squad into the close-season with a spring in their step.
"Last year, despite how well we played and how high we finished, I think it was always going to be a challenge with the new stadium which is very different to Upton Park," he observed.
"We've had a lot of frustrating results and a few games where we've conceded quite a few goals. The last five games, bar Liverpool, we've kept four clean sheets and played well, so I think it goes both ways.
"I definitely feel we are more settled and getting used to playing there [at London Stadium] and the fans are starting to warm to it, so hopefully we can finish on a high against Burnley and start fresh next season.
"There have been a lot of highs and lows as well. Next season, we need to enjoy more positive moments. We've done well to secure safety and in the manner we did against Tottenham in a night match in front of a full house was really good."
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Manager on Matchday
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic pens his thoughts ahead of West Ham United's final match of the 2016/17 Premier League season...
Good morning everyone.
I want to start by thanking every West Ham United fan for their support this season. It has not been easy at times, but you have been there every game, cheering, singing, supporting us and it means a lot.
We are very motivated to finish the season with a victory at Burnley. We are professional and we are prepared and we want to win the game.
We know it will not be easy, though, as Burnley are good at home. They have won most of their points at Turf Moor and will be very keen to finish their own season with a victory in front of their fans.
As you know, we have many injuries at this time. We will be without some senior players, which means we have brought some of our promising young ones with us as part of the squad.
Whatever happens this afternoon, I believe this season will benefit us in the long run, a lot.
Last season was great and it was easy and everybody wanted to give each other a high five and all that, but when you are going through the tough times, you see people's real character.
Even last season, we had a patch before Christmas when we had eight injuries at the same time, when we went on a long run when we didn't win a match, but we didn't lose either.
I thought to myself and said to my staff that was great, because when the other players come back, we are going to be good – and so it turned out.
That was a very important part of the season. This year also, you build your character the best during the tough spells and tough times in every walk of life.
Now, we have had those tough times and with the quality of players we have, the addition of some more this summer, some better performances, and avoiding so many injuries next season, we can be good again.
All that, plus the character that we've built and settling in more at the new stadium makes me very hungry and optimistic for the new season.
Before then, we have one more match to play this season and we will try our best to win it.
While some people say it is a 'dead rubber', there is no such thing in the Premier League. Every position is worth £1.9m in prize money, so a win and finishing a few places higher can help us when it comes to the transfer window this summer.
Thank you all again for your support this season. I have always known how special the West Ham United fans are, and you have proved that again and helped us get over the obstacles that were in our way.
Enjoy the game and enjoy your summer!
Slaven
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Three Key Battles - Burnley
WHUFC.com
West Ham United head into their last Premier League game of the season knowing a win against Burnley at Turf Moor could see them finish as high as eleventh in the league table.
Defeat and an unfortunate swing of other results could potentially see Slaven Bilic's team end the season in 16th, meaning Sunday's Claret showdown is still of huge importance.
At home is where Sean Dyche's side have picked up the majority of their 40 points so far this campaign, but the Hammers have beaten Burnley in the teams' last four meetings and will be confident travelling to Lancashire.
For the last time this campaign, we've taken a look at three players from each side who could be going head-to-head on Sunday…
Lowton v Byram
With the right-backs in action at Turf Moor likely to be Matthew Lowton and Sam Byram, we've had a look at the statistics of the Leeds United academy pair.
Former Aston Villa man Lowton has played the majority of Burnley's fixtures in the top flight this season, and the 27-year-old has a couple of assists to show for it.
Byram, on the other hand, has missed large chunks of the campaign through injury, but has impressed this year, contributing not only going forward but with his defensive duties, as the above statistics show.
The 23-year-old went close to scoring his first Hammers goal in the early stages of the side's last fixture – against Liverpool – and will be hoping for an opportunity to have another crack on Sunday.
Westwood v Nordtveit
In midfield, Ashley Westwood has featured in Burnley's last three matches, while Havard Nordtveit has also seen more game time in the second half of this season.
And the Norwegian Hammer has impressed in the centre of midfield, playing in his natural position after a stint at right-back earlier this term.
The former Borussia Monchengladbach man's stats are good too, with more tackles, clearances and aerials won per game than Burnley's Westwood.
With Mark Noble and Cheikhou Kouyate out the side with injury alongside Spaniard Pedro Obiang, Nordtveit is seizing his chance in the team and will hope to continue to do so at Turf Moor when he lines up against Dyche's outfit.
Vokes v Ayew
Finally, the two goalscorers likely to line up against each other on Sunday are Sam Vokes – who has nine Premier League goals this season – and Andre Ayew, on five for the campaign.
The Ghanaian has been key since he returned from the African Cup of Nations in February, bagging four goals and making two in the 12 Premier League games since.
Vokes, of course, came into the season off the back of a terrific UEFA Euro 2012 campaign with Wales, and he's carried on that excellent form to fire Burnley to safety this season.
With just two wins in 15 since the beginning of February though, the Clarets are in poor form and West Ham will be hoping to take advantage of that to end their season on a high note in the north west.
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West Ham's Slaven Bilic setting his sights high next season
Last Updated: 20/05/17 1:27pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic believes West Ham could be capable of securing a top-six finish in the Premier League next season. The east London club bring their current campaign to an end on Sunday when they travel to Burnley. They currently stand 12th in the table with a realistic chance of improving their position by one spot, although they could also slip down as far as 16th. West Ham have endured a topsy-turvy season which has seen crowd trouble at the London Stadium, as well as the departure of Dimitri Payet in January. Bilic will meet co-owner David Sullivan on Monday and the Hammers boss has already set his sights on a vast improvement in 2017/18. Make no mistake, I enjoyed last season more than this one. The Croatian said: "The ambitions are: the minimum to finish in the top 10, but with the hope or plan to break into the top eight, top seven or top six. "It's going to be very hard, you saw last year that it is possible but you have to tick all of the boxes. You have to have a good transfer window, keep clear of injuries and settle down in the stadium. "It's not going to be blooming all of the time but we feel it's our home. We had some really good performances and some really bad performances there. "This should all help us being better next season, knowing that all the other teams will do the same. "Make no mistake, I enjoyed last season more than this one but you become stronger, not only as a manager or not only as an individual player but you are building the character of the team. "We need a break and rest to prepare for next season but then again, on the other hand, we can talk about that on Monday because I am very, very motivated for this game."
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David Gold issues bleak outlook for West Ham's youth players
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 21/05/17 10:25am
SSN
West Ham co-chairman David Gold has issued a damning outlook for the club's youth players, confirming their prospects of playing in the first-team look bleak.
The Hammers are looking to improve considerably in the summer transfer market after a poor season under Slaven Bilic, and Gold expects their side to be one full of "seasoned internationals".
Follow
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
I think we all have to except that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a PL team full of seasoned international. dg 11:41 AM - 20 May 2017
211 211 Retweets 236 236 likes
Promising youth players such as Reece Oxford and Josh Cullen have been shipped out on loan this season and Gold was forced to respond to fan complaints after celebrating Cullen's part in the League One play-off final with Bradford. He said on Twitter: "I think we all have to (accept) that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a (Premier League) team full of seasoned international(s). "Playing teenagers doesn't guarantee success. Hull came fifth (in number of youngsters played) and got relegated. Chelsea came last and won the league. "Sam (Allardyce) played the teenagers at Nottingham Forest (in 2014) and we got beat 5-0. "Teenagers gain experience by going out on loan to the first (or) second division and the Championship."
Manager Bilic gave several youngsters a chance in the Hammers' ill-fated Europa League qualifying campaign, such as midfielders Marcus Browne and Quina, as well as Oxford and Burke. Bilic also admitted ahead of the team's final game of the season against Burnley that Declan Rice could feature in place of the injured Winston Reid at centre-back.
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West Ham co-owner David Gold slammed by fans after dismissing chances of youngsters breaking into first-team
Gold suggested there were no teenagers ready to break into Slaven Bilic's side and fans reacted angrily
The Mirror
BYLIAM PRENDERVILLE
17:45, 20 MAY 2017
West Ham co-owner David Gold has been slammed by the club's supporters after controversial comments on social media. Gold hit out after being reminded of the lack of action given to youngsters by Slaven Bilic this season. The Hammers are one of six Premier League clubs to not give any minutes to teenagers - a far cry from the 2,140 minutes afforded by Everton boss Ronald Koeman. The likes of Reece Oxford and Burke. both loaned out this term, were individually mentioned but Gold dismissed the chances of any youngster breaking into the first-team. "I think we all have to except that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a PL team full of seasoned international," he wrote on Twitter.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
I think we all have to except that it is extremely unlikely that a teenager will break into a PL team full of seasoned international. dg 11:41 AM - 20 May 2017
212 212 Retweets 238 238 likes
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James Corden ✔ @JKCorden
I can't imagine how I'd feel if I was a young player at West Ham reading that from the chairman. https://twitter.com/davidgold/status/865880190156722180 …
2:28 PM - 20 May 2017
1,775 1,775 Retweets 5,748 5,748 likes
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Dean Ashton ✔ @Dean36ashton10
I'd think il go a club where they are willing to give young players a shot! https://twitter.com/jkcorden/status/865922133997768706 …
5:15 PM - 20 May 2017 · Norwich, England
143 143 Retweets 390 390 likes
His comments were met with an angry reaction with celebrity supporter James Corden leading the criticism. Former Hammers striker Dean Ashton also weighed in and suggested such words could lead to academy prospects seeking a move elsewhere. But Gold showed little remorse, first pointing at the success of Chelsea (no minutes to teenagers) as an example of a tried and tested method.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Playing teenagers doesn't guarantee success. Hull came 5th and got relegated. Chelsea came last and won the league. dg https://twitter.com/hammerhexy/status/865850684985536513 …
11:51 AM - 20 May 2017
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David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Sam played the teenagers at Nottingham Forest and we got beat 5-0. dg https://twitter.com/boogiebutler7/status/865863096895721474 …
11:59 AM - 20 May 2017
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David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Teenagers gain experience by going out on loan to the 1st 2nd division and the championship. https://twitter.com/simonbarnes20/status/865962883351445505 …
5:32 PM - 20 May 2017
15 15 Retweets 70 70 likes
He also reminded fans of the humiliating FA Cup defeat at Nottingham Forest, where a young side was thrashed 5-0. Gold wasn't done there and insisted the club's youngsters would be better served out on loan at a lower-league side. West Ham bring a frustrating campaign to a close away at Burnley on Sunday.
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