Daily WHUFC News - 9th August 2017

Season opener on sale to Members
WHUFC.com

Your first chance to see our four big summer signings in action at London Stadium is just around the corner – so make sure you don't miss out by becoming a Claret Member today!

Tickets for the home opener against Huddersfield Town are now on sale exclusively to Claret Members, and as a reward for our Members' loyal support, we're giving them the opportunity to purchase an extra ticket for this fixture, meaning they can secure up to two tickets each for the Monday night fixture.

Ticket are priced from just £15 for Under-16s and from £30 for adults.

With almost all home fixtures selling out within the Members priority window last season, we recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Book tickets here

For accessibility seating please email accessibility@westhamunited.co.uk or call 0333 030 0174 for further information

If you're not already a Claret Member, join today to get exclusive priority on all Premier League and Cup fixtures at London Stadium plus a host of additional benefits. Click here to find out more.

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7 things you probably didn't know about Sead Haksabanovic
WHUFC.com

West Ham United have completed the signing of exciting Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic on a five-year contract. Here, we find out more about the former Halmstads BK player…

Born in Swedish village of Hyltebruk, Sead Haksabanovic joined his local club Halmstads BK at the age of six
Haksabanovic made his Halmstads BK debut against IFK Norkopping in Sweden's top flight in April 2015, aged just 15 years and eleven months

The young prodigy was invited over for a trial with Manchester United in 2015, training alongside the likes of Marcus Rashford and Timothy Fosu-Mensah
He netted eight goals in 30 appearances as relegated HBK bounced back to win promotion at the first attempt via the play-offs in 2016

Haksabanovic has been fouled 48 times in 18 Allsvenskan appearances for Halmstads BK this season – the third-highest in Sweden's top-flight
The 18-year-old has also unleashed 50 shots, a figure bettered by only three other players, despite his team winning just two of their 18 league games

The teenager played age-group international football for Sweden before switching his allegiance to Montenegro earlier this year. He debuted for the country of his father's birth in a win over Armenia in June

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Hart and Zaba: We can't wait to play at London Stadium
WHUFC.com

West Ham United new boys Joe Hart and Pablo Zabaleta cannot wait to pull on a Hammers shirt at London Stadium for the first time.

The two summer signings are set to make their home debut for the Club in the Premier League fixture with Huddersfield Town on Monday 11 September at 8pm, tickets for which are now on sale to Claret Members here.

Hart and Zabaleta both know the importance of vociferous home support and are relishing what promises to be a huge night under the floodlights on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

"We know how important our home form will be this season if we are to achieve our targets, and we are all massively looking forward to our first Premier League game at London Stadium," said England goalkeeper Hart, who has arrived on a season-long loan from Manchester City.

"We start against Huddersfield Town under the floodlights and it's going to be big game in front of a big TV audience. We all want to kick-off with a win and the support of the fans will give us a big boost on the night.

"I'm absolutely sure it will be a complete sell out and I'm told it will be completely full of Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members, which just shows how big our club is and the potential we have got."

Unlike Hart, who spent last season with Italian club Torino, Zabaleta has already experienced London Stadium for himself, appearing in Manchester City's FA Cup victory at West Ham's new home in January.

As someone who has faced the Hammers 12 times previously overall, the right-back knows the atmosphere the Claret and Blue Army can generate, and is looking forward to experiencing it again next month.

"I visited London Stadium twice last season and I was impressed by the size of the ground and the fantastic noise created by the West Ham fans," said the No5.

"We know we need to be united this season and that we need to make London Stadium a real fortress, and the fans can definitely help us do that.

"I am excited and looking forward to playing at London Stadium in our opening game, for sure. Pulling on the shirt and playing in front of nearly 60,000 fans is definitely one of the big reasons I signed for West Ham United."

Claret Members can purchase two seats each for the home Premier League opener with Huddersfield now – the first chance to see the Club's five summer signings in action on home turf.

Tickets for the visit of the newly-promoted Terriers now on sale exclusively to Claret Members, priced from just £15 for U16s and from £30 for Adults.

With almost all home fixtures selling out within the Members priority window last season, we recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.

For Accessibility seating please email accessibility@westhamunited.co.uk or call 0333 030 0174 for further information.

If you're not already a Claret Member, join here today to get exclusive priority on all Premier League and Cup fixtures at London Stadium plus a host of additional benefits.

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Andre Ayew: Our actions will speak louder than words
WHUFC.com

Andre Ayew knows a thing or two about playing under pressure.

The Ghana star has been capped more than 75 times by his country, appeared at seven major tournaments, featured in the UEFA Champions League and is the son of a three-time African Footballer of the Year.

This summer, having signed four experienced internationals, expectations have risen sharply that West Ham United will enjoy a successful 2017/18 Premier League season – but Ayew has cautioned against getting carried away by the Hammers' potential.

"I think we have the squad, the players and the quality to be able to do something good, but I think a lot of other teams also have great players and great squads, so we need to be calm and work hard," said Ayew, who won four trophies and Player of the Year honours with former club Marseille and has twice inspired Ghana to the Africa Cup of Nations final.

"We know what we want and the gaffer [Slaven Bilic] has given his directions and we are following them. It's only with time and games that you can start to feel what you can do.

"Last season, I wouldn't say it was a bad season but we had a lot of ups and downs and we only finished one point away from eighth position. We need to work hard, stay calm and have the belief that we can do something great."

I think we have the squad, the players and the quality to be able to do something good, but I think a lot of other teams also have great players and great squads, so we need to be calm and work hard

West Ham kick-off the new Premier League campaign with a trip to Manchester United on Sunday, the first of three straight away games to start the new season.

With the Hammers also journeying to Southampton and Newcastle United before welcoming Huddersfield Town to London Stadium on 11 September, forward Ayew is anxious that people do not let their emotions run away with them before the season is even a month old.

On the other hand, the African says a decent return from those three away matches will set the Hammers up nicely ahead of the visit of the newly-promoted Terriers.

"We shouldn't really talk too much," said the No20. "It's difficult for us to start the season already with three away games so we need to see how we start the season and from there we can start to know where we are.

"The best way for us is to start well and if we get a good start I think we're going to do a good season. That's football. When you start well, it puts you in a positive mindset and gives you the confidence to believe you can do something.

"If we have a good start this year, we have experienced players and good young players so we have a good blend. I believe the gaffer knows exactly what he wants, we are right behind him, so we are going to push and see if we can finish as high as we can because the Club and the fans deserve to be smiling at the end of the season."

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Hammers Ladies appoint Amy Cooper as captain
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Ladies have appointed Amy Cooper (pictured right) as captain and Amber Stobbs (pictured left) as vice-captain for the 2017/18 season.

The pair were presented with their armbands by West Ham United Ladies Ambassador Michail Antonio at the Rush Green training ground recently.

Cooper takes on the captaincy for the second successive season, having made a hugely positive impression last year, and is looking forward to an exciting campaign ahead.

The 24-year-old central midfielder said: "I am delighted to be selected as captain for West Ham United for the second season running. I feel that we have a really hard working and motivated team this year, with a number of new signings increasing the competition for positions, which will only help us improve on what we had last season.

"This season we are striving to win some silverware - playing how we have over pre-season, with a few improvements in weaker areas, I am really excited about what we can achieve."

Vice-captain Amber, also 24, joined the Club this summer from Women's Super League side Everton and added: "I am very pleased, and surprised, to be appointed vice-captain.

"During pre-season training, I have been trying to get my experience across, working out how different players react to different communication, and hopefully showing leadership qualities.

"It's a role that I have held in the past at other clubs growing up, and I am honoured to have been considered for it here at West Ham."

First team manager Greg De Carnys said: "I am absolutely delighted to appoint Amy and Amber as captain and vice-captain this season.

"Amy, who was Club captain last season, has a great personality and naturally the other girls do see her as a leader on and off the pitch.

"She also epitomises what we are about here, in how hard she has worked at her game and consequently in the progress she has made as a player over the last ten months.

"Amber has come in and settled brilliantly into the group. She obviously has the respect of the other players because of the way she approaches her game and I think she can be a great influence for some of the younger and less experienced players we have in the team.

"We have a fantastic bunch of girls and they are very well represented by Amy and Amber."

General Manager Karen Ray added: "Amy and Amber are both great leaders on and off the pitch, they conduct themselves in ways which others aspire to. They both demonstrate great professionalism, ambition and a desire to take West Ham United Ladies to the top of the Women's game.

"Their interaction with all age groups throughout the Ladies set up shows how effective they both are as role models to players who are on their pathway.

"We are proud to have two hardworking, ambitious Ladies leading the way as we embark on the 2017/18 season."

The West Ham United Ladies kick off their FA Women's Premier League campaign away at Gillingham on Sunday 20 August.

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'Talented, technical and humble' – Sead Haksabanovic in profile
WHUFC.com

West Ham United made exciting teenager Sead Haksabanovic the Club's fifth summer signing this week.

The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has already made 70 senior appearances for Swedish Allsvenskan club Halmstad BK and earned his first senior international cap for Montenegro in June.

Here, we find out more the Hammers new boy…

'An exceptional talent'

Halmstad BK chairman Tony Karlsson has watched Haksabanovic rise from teenage prodigy to potential Premier League star in the space of three years.

It was Karlsson who gave his blessing to the midfielder's move from the west coast of Sweden to the east end of London, where he expects Haksabanovic to continue to fulfil his undoubted promise.

"Sead has been with since he was six-years-old and has been successful in our academy," said Karlsson, who took charge at HBK in 2015, the same year Haksabanovic made his first-team debut at the age of 15.

"He is an exceptional talent and we as a club are very happy that he gets the chance to come to a Premier League club.

"I think he is a player who not only has talent but also works very hard. His awareness of the game is one that few can match and it has taken him all the way to the Premier League."

A young man in demand

Karlsson revealed that Halmstad and Haksabanovic himself turned down interest from leading clubs in Italy, Spain, Belgium and Turkey to hone his game in Sweden's top flight.

After inspiring HBK to promotion last season, when he started all 30 league games, scored eight goals and registered eight assists, he is again Halmstad's leading scorer this term.

"He has raised his game to another level this season and that he chose to stay gave him the opportunity to go to one of the best leagues in the world," Karlsson observed. "This is so much bigger in all ways.

"West Ham have a coach [in Slaven Bilic] who does not care about age but about the player's attitude and talent. In addition, they play 4-3-3 which should fit Sead well. The Club also seems very well organized and family-oriented, despite its size.

"It's a great move to go from Allsvenskan to the Premier League, but Sead has the right conditions to handle it."

A model of consistency

Despite being just 16 at the start of the 2016 campaign – Sweden's league season runs from April to October – Haksabanovic's outstanding displays earned him Players' Player of the Year honours.

The youngster has started Halmstad's last 52 league matches, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists, and has not missed a first-team game since August 2015.

A model of consistency, he started all 30 Superettan (second tier) matches for Halmstad, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists, meaning he played a direct role in 15 (or 34.8 per cent) of his team's 43 league goals!

Haksabanovic has continued to shine in 2017, despite his club side winning just two of their 18 Allsvenskan matches, playing all but 25 minutes, scoring four goals and leading his team in shots, dribbles and key passes. A hard-working player, he also ranks second in tackles attempted!

When it comes to the Swedish top flight as a whole, the 18-year-old ranks fifth in shots, first in shots from outside the penalty area, ninth in dribbles and 12th in key passes.

Statistically, Haksabanovic is a left winger, having started 14 of Halmstad's 18 league matches in that position, but he is two-footed and is as likely to cut inside and shoot as he is to take his man on using his pace and technical ability.

'He has a special feeling about the way he plays the game'

Jan-Owe Wikstrom is the Halmstad BK correspondent for regional newspaper and website Hallandsposten.

Wikstrom has watched Haksabanovic develop from the boy who broke a club record when he debuted aged 15 years and eleven months in April 2015, into a man whose skills were coveted by clubs all over Europe.

YouTube clips of the teenager show him repeatedly streaking past defenders before showing calm and composure to either set up a teammate or score himself – qualities the reporter confirms he has in abundance.

"Sead is a very technical player, with fantastic speed and close control with the ball at his feet," Wikstrom told whufc.com. "He can really play. He knows what he will do with the ball long before he actually does it and has a special feeling about the way he plays the game. He understands the game.

"Sead made his debut at the age of 15 but he was a player who looked like he had played for five or ten years in the league. He is a very mature young man and is not a man with big words – what we would call humble.

"He may not be so strong physically, but he is working very hard on his physical side and will get stronger as the season continues.

"I don't expect him to start for West Ham straight away, but I can see him being a substitute this season and making an impact."

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Young Hammers side beaten at Billericay
WHUFC.com

A young West Ham United XI were beaten 3-1 by Isthmian League side Billericay Town on Tuesday night in the Club's final pre-season clash of the summer.

The Hammers, managed by Terry Westley and consisting of both U23 and U18 players, could not recover after their Essex hosts scored twice in as many minutes at the end of the first half through Billy Bricknell and Jermaine Pennant, though Dan Kemp did half the deficit in the second half.

Sam Deering scored a third Town to seal the win in the final 15 minutes.

Premier League journeyman Pennant – who signed earlier this week – was one of a number of recognisable names in the home team's lineup, which included former Hammers Paul Konchesky and Leo Chambers.

In the opening half an hour at a packed AGP Arena, there was little to get excited about.

For the Hammers, Martin Samuelsen had the first attempt, marauding forward into space but shooting low and straight at the keeper from 25 yards.

With both sides keeping things tight at the back, action inside the penalty areas was limited, though Louis Theophanous did drag a left-footed attempt wide just inside the box.

Suddenly though, on the half hour mark, the game sprung to life. First, Hammers keeper Nathan Trott was forced into action as he sprung superbly to his left to keep out Deering's goalbound header.

The hosts' new signing Pennant fired well over with the goal at his mercy from the rebound.

The former Arsenal and Liverpool winger played his part in the Billericay goal just second later, however. Nodding Theophanous' centre back across goal, centre-forward Bricknell was on hand to find the back of the net with his head from inside the six-yard-box.

And a quick second was to come for Glenn Tamplin's team. Architect of the first Pennant this time turned scorer, playing a neat one-two with first goalscorer Bricknell on the edge of the box before lashing into the top left-hand corner past Trott's despairing dive.

And before the break, there were two more chances for Town, as defender Joe Ellul – up from the back for a series of set-pieces – was first denied by Trott before heading over from close range.

Early in the second period, Westley changed the Hammers' shape, introducing Grady Diangana from the bench.

And the attacking midfielder soon set about getting his team back into the game. On the hour mark, he did just that; crossing from the left for Kemp to smash home from close range.

The visitors continued to battle hard and another substitute – Korrey Henry – tested the keeper from a tight angle shortly after.

But as West Ham pushed for an equaliser, the home team had other ideas. With just under a quarter of an hour left to play, the result was put beyond doubt.

Left-back Konchesky lifted a clever ball over the top which allowed Deering, continuing his run from midfield, to knock simply past Trott in goal.


Billericay Town: Julian, Chambers, Konchesky, Ellul, Deering, Evans, Davies, Bricknell (Modeste 55), Theophanous (Robinson 55), Pennant (Urquhart 55), Foley (Cunnington 55).

Subs not used: Payne, Swaine, Robinson.

Goals: Bricknell 32, Pennant 34, Deering 76

West Ham United XI: Trott, Pike (Greenidge 54), Pask (Okotcha 67), Akinola, Neufville (Diangana 46), Coventry (Henry 46), Powell, Kemp, Trialist, Samuelsen (Hector-Ingram 61), Trialist.

Sub not used: Forde

Goals: Kemp 60

Bookings: Akinola 87

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Haksabanovic: A Swedish point of view
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 8th August 2017
By: Staff Writer

Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic became West Ham's latest signing yesterday. So we reached out to one of our Swedish Forum members for the lowdown on the 18-year-old, who cost the Hammers in the region of £3million.
"Born in 1999, he was regarded as one of our prime prospects for the future," wrote KUMB member Kasi. "He was born in the same year as two other golden prospects in Alexander Isak - who went to Dortmund for roughly €10m - and Mattias Svanberg, who plays for Malmö. "However it was quite an upset when he chose to play for Montenegro instead of Sweden, despite featuring in Under 17 and Under 19 internationals for Sweden. "He's a very gifted, attacking midfielder with good technique, pace and a good shot. In my view, the main barrier to becoming a success the Premier League or not are his physical attributes. "He's also a leader and carried Halmstad BK to promotion last year. This year, he has been their best player by a mile in Allsvenskan. All their offensive plays goes through him, which he has been able to do a more than decent job with so far in the league."

And whilst Kasi is unsure whether Haksabanovic will make the grade in England and the Premier League he is certain that either way, West Ham are unlikely to lose out financially. "£3million is not a huge sum for us, but for Halmstad it's heaven," he added. "I'm sceptical that he will make it in the Premier League, at least for the next coming season or two. "But IF he becomes be the player he has the potential to be, then West Ham will make far more than £3m when they sell him. "I should stress that Haksabanovic doesn't see West Ham as the last stop, he wants to go to a better and bigger club as soon as he's ready (in his mind), so we better keep that in mind. "But when everyone thought he would leave for free this winter, he signed a new long term contract with Halmstad - which they are certainly very grateful for today."

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WILL THE REAL SLAVEN BILIC PLEASE STAND UP?
By Iain Dale 8 Aug 2017 at 08:00 273 comments
WTID
Guest Post by Rugby Irons

We all bring a different view to games we watch and then we generally all disagree. However the recent poor showings have unified our views. So,what is it we don't like? Well here's my view as if I were our Manager.

Well the problem of injuries still besets us. So I have brought in the best alternative with Gary Lewin. No sooner as he arrives the list goes up. I had hoped that by taking the whole squad away to concentrate on the team, rather than chasing the mighty dollar, I could get the team to shape up as I wanted them to. In reality I ended up with most of the stars absent, those fit ones left and the youths, to make up the numbers. So my master plan went out of the window. Even the fitness wasn't a huge improvement. But then to make any plan to work you have everyone on board. Cue your star injured centre forward on the lash in Spain. Nice.

So it's down to the preseason games and with the youths given their chance (presumably to ensure no more injuries) and they certainly took it. Those who doubted these players would be enjoying their humble pie but again they are short of what the owners want and lack experience. Spurs, Everton and Saints, the other teams around us have blooded kids and done well from it but I'm not sure the owners want to risk it.

The results went against the team but at this point this is where I worry. I couldn't see what the plan was. What had the team been working on in the last three weeks? We lacked any cohesion. If the point of having Hernandez is to get a overflowing front line to supply passes into him to score, with the others adding to the goal tally, then we are miles off. We hardly had a shot and Martinez scored off his only shot. You can make all the injury excuses you like but Carroll and Sakho just can't be considered.

Against Altona, we were a shambles. Reid should be ashamed he let the team down and made it a farce. The standard of crossing was abysmal and in terms of a shape it wasn't there again. You look at the defence and they don't look a unit at all.

So you go up against Citeh and every alarm bell is ringing. Now for SB he is on a hiding to nothing before a ball is kicked and he wasted the opportunity to give us hope. This isn't about the second gear dominance of the game or the goals, but the wholly negative performance. Let's be clear if you go 4-5-1 then you are defending. No problem with that if you can counter. We can't.
So the strict line of five across the middle stood and watched Toure and DeBruyne split them as the Citeh had five players behind our midfield, attacking our back line. You just can't leave it if it isn't working but SB stuck with it. Changing players didn't do anything. Why didn't SB just push up the back line ten yards and defend from the 30 not the 18yard box? He put Rice on as a holding player, fair enough, and then press them back a bit. We had lost the game but he could have looked at his attack instead of his leaky defence. Ninety minutes of negative play and just one tame shot on target all game.

That's not good form. Now don't be fooled into arguing it was against Citeh.This should have been about what we were about. For me this has been a disastrous preseason because we haven't progressed and with a week to go we are in a poor place. Players coming back will now be rushed into action and the ever rotating injuries will continue.
So what do I think of the squad with a week to go:

Hart : For all his noise his feet aren't good enough. Playing out from our backline is a recipe for disaster and in his first game he now knows why Adrian was told to pack it in and Hart must be the same.
Adrian: Proved his point with strong performances and looks the part to me.
Byram: Just not big enough and doesn't create or do enough.
Zabaleta: Looks slow and heavy but his experience makes the difference. He has still impressed.
Cresswell: Looks way off the pace now. Can hardly cross a ball enough times and being totally one footed makes him weaker. Also not strong enough.
Arthur: Looks more than just a defender but creates and crosses and has right attitude.
Fonte: Way below the standard required playing for us. He just isn't quick or alert enough.
Ginge: He is what he is but you get a 100% of it.
Reid: If he strops all the time his play suffers.He should be the leader at the back but he's not at it.
Burke: Did enough to be kept and developed . His shipping out shows a weakness in the club policy.
Oxford: Why isn't he being promoted from within. Hope Germany is a positive and not a cover up.
Rice: He's 17 and if anyone needed loaning out it was him. He is behind the others in development terms. He hasn't played at centre half, or much at least, just thrown in as a make weight midfielder, which he has taken too.The beauty of being young and fearless.
Ogbonna: Concentration levels not there since coming back but this will improve.
Noble: Becoming Kevin Nolan, which just isn't fair on him. Needs to be the Noble of old.
Cullen: Has done everything required and still gets shipped out. Ridiculous.
Obiang: Has been quiet but effective. I expect him to step up immediately once we start for real.
Eddy: Hasnt impressed but hasn't had the quality around him. Will improve because he is getting games.
Koyoute. Massive loss. The real engine. Difficult to do preseason without your two best players.
Lanzini: Same as Cheikh. He will be pivotal. Needs to be protected. We have limited creativity without him.
Arnie: Has really impressed. Like Ant but the other side. Needs to up his crossing quality though.
Ant: Really need him back. His presence alone makes a difference.
Snod : He just doesn't have it. His luck has run out and nothing goes his way. It happens.
Ayew: His work rate created things and is always lively.
Carroll: Wasted talent of his own choosing. Leave him on the beach.
Sakho: Who knows, but of late another waster.
Holland: Looked good and positive.
Martinez : To score from what he has had as service is remarkable enough. Looks a good prospect and as our second striker he will do us ok.
Hernandez: His record and quality will keep us up at least if we get him the ball.

So on paper, and fit, we look good . On the injury table we look weak all over. Without a style and pattern to get balls into their box,for the front line, you then have to worry about what defence we put out. I don't normally do the player prediction because it's more about how the players respond to the role they are put in. We need to be stronger at the back and lining up on the 30 yard one not 18.

If we are going one holder, two central and two wide then we must press on and push them back. With one up they must be getting the ball in the final 20 yards not on the half way line. And this is where I take issue with Slaven. Stop being so cagey. Look at your (fit) squad and its an offensive team, even if it's a counter attacking set up we have to take a positive attitude. If you go positive we will be right behind you. Be Slaven not Sam.

And so to conclude, if the plan is to keep the ball on the floor and play counter football then the players are there to do it. But and it's a big but , you have to be positive, especially at home. We could be in trouble by the time our first home game comes, equally we could be top of the League. All things are always possible watching West Ham. So as many of you say, preseason doesn't matter, and of course they are right. So with a week to go I'm more worried by the injury list and attitude than recent results. I bet £10 for us to win the league. Well you have to, absolutely nothing is ever certain. I look forward to your comments and keeping the faith. Long live the Boleyn.

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Diafra Sakho could continue West Ham comeback against Billericay Town
The Hammers striker got an hour under his belt at the weekend
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
11:30, 8 AUG 2017UPDATED12:50, 8 AUG 2017

Diafra Sakho could continue his comeback from injury later tonight (Tuesday) when the West Ham U23s take on Billericay Town in a pre-season friendly.
The Senegal striker got an hour of game time in a 3-2 win over Spurs for the U23s on Saturday and is expected to step up his rehab once again at the AGP Arena in Essex as the youngsters continue their preparations for the PL2 Division One campaign. It's not yet known how long Sakho will get on the pitch but it's unlikely to be 90 minutes.
Winston Reid however - who played alongside Sakho at Spurs on Saturday - won't be playing in Billericay as he is back with the first team and pushing for inclusion for the Premier League opener at Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
The Hammers have tentatively pencilled in Sakho for a return to first team action on September 11, the first home game of the new season when West Ham take on Huddersfield under the lights at the London Stadium on a Monday night.

Sakho saw last season wrecked by back and hamstring injuries as he made just three appearances all season long. He scored in one of them - the 1-1 Premier League draw at Old Trafford - before he picked up his serious hamstring problem and was ruled out for the remainder of the season.
The U23s have won two of their five pre-season friendlies so far this summer as Terry Westley's side prepare for the opening PL2 fixture of the season next Friday (August 11) when the youngsters face last season's title winners, Everton, in Dagenham.

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WEST HAM REJECT PALACE'S ADRIAN BID
LUKE OSMAN @LukeOsmanRS
ReadWestHam

West Ham have turned down a bid from Crystal Palace for their out of favour goalkeeper Adrian. According to a report from the Daily Mail today, the Spaniard was the subject of a £3.5 million offer from the Eagles. Palace are evidently keen to land a new goalkeeper this summer, with Frank de Boer keen to make changes to his personnel, but they will need to up their offer if they are to stand a chance of beating others to the signing of Adrian.
Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for experienced Spanish goalkeeper, and Palace may need to act fast in revising their offer. The arrival of Joe Hart at the London Stadium appears to have spelled the end for Adrian, who is unlikely to settle for being second fiddle. However, if the Spanish shot stopper is to depart this summer, a bid worth more than £3.5m will need to be made.

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Fitness guru takes a swipe at West Ham over brutal training regime for Andy Carroll
The outspoken coach is never scared to vice his opinions on subjects in football
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
19:10, 8 AUG 2017

Football coach and outspoken Twitter personality Raymond Verheijen has had a pop at West Ham over their apparent training regime to get Andy Carroll back to fitness. The Dutchman, who famously called David Moyes a "dinosaur" for over-training Robin van Persie when the Scotsman was in charge at Manchester United, has now taken his acid tongue out on the Hammers.

Under the watchful new West Ham of new head of medical services Gary Lewin, the injury-plagued frontman - who won't be fit for the start of the season - is undergoing a tough regime, pushing him to the absolute maximum with double training, fitness sessions and "punishing gym work" which is hoped will discover where he injury problems are coming from.

Raymond Verheijen @raymondverheije
It's worrying to see how most fitness clowns & scientific cowboys still do not understand the concept of 'fitness'.http://www.football.london/west-ham-united-fc/players/andy-carroll-undergoing-brutal-training-13444553.amp …
1:35 PM - Aug 8, 2017
Andy Carroll undergoing brutal training regime in bid to get fit for West Ham
The striker has missed far too much time injured but is making a comeback - again
football.london
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That prompted Verheijen - who quotes the football.london article on Twitter to his 44,000 followers - said on the social network: "It's worrying to see how most fitness clowns & scientific cowboys still do not understand the concept of 'fitness'." Carroll made just 18 appearances last season for West Ham as his campaign was once again ravaged by injuries. He did have a run of games a the turn of 2017 and scored four goals during that time, leading to interest from Gareth Southgate for an England recall but the striker then got injured again and the chance was gone.

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Ian Bishop Exclusive Interview: Part Two: Bish On The Current Situation At West Ham United, The Stadium Move, What The Future Might Bring And More
Moore than just a club
POSTED BY: LUKE GLANVILLE 08/08/2017

In part two of our exclusive interview with Hammers Legend Ian Bishop, we chat to the former graceful midfielder about what is currently going on in his world, the Claret & Blue world, what the future holds and much more.

During Bishop's time as a Hammer, he had the pleasure of playing under the so-called Del-Boy of football in manager Harry Redknapp. So, with the 52-year-old witnessing teammates flow in and out of the door frequently, what does he think of our summer business this summer compared to last?

"Night and day. Joe Hart, Zabaleta will get to feel the same euphoria as myself and a few others to pull on the shirts of two very special football clubs. Arnautovic is someone I have been touting for a couple of years now, and to land a natural goal getter like Hernandez makes me want the season to come sooner".

In summer 2016, we captured the likes of Simone Zaza and Jonathan Calleri, who would go onto become flops in a Hammers shirt. However, our recruitment has been visibly better in this Transfer Window, in bringing the Arnautovic's and the Chicharito's like Bish proclaimed.

Much is made in modern Football about the temperament and physicality of players intertwined with problems like cheating and diving. However, these problems were not so prevalent back in Bishop's playing days. The game was an entirely different entity back in the 1980's and 1990's, and this is what the legendary midfielder had to say about Football then and now:

"There are obvious differences," explained the former Manchester City man.

"It is so much softer now. Players have no respect for each other in my opinion. The integrity has gone. I love to watch a good fast paced game where the ref isn't conned too much but they are few and far between".

Another feature of the game that we all know and love today, is the amount of money in the fold and the fees that are being paid for such players as Paul Pogba, Romelu Lukaku and who could forget Neymar. However, in the different world of Football that existed 20 and 30-years ago, Bish was signed by Lou Macari at Upton Park for £500.000. Many Hammers fans will now wonder what a player like Ian would cost nowadays, but what does the man himself think of the amount of money in the game today?

"The price of players is only relevant to the money coming in. It is still on a scale. I do believe the player's salaries reflect this also. There is a few who I don't believe earn it, but overall athletes in other sports especially here in the states have been getting paid huge amounts for a decade before the Prem, so I have no issues with what they earn".

Among our highest earners at The London Stadium are the duo of Pedro Obiang and Manuel Lanzini, who, like Bishop did, ply their trade in the centre of the park. But what does the former graceful midfielder think about Slaven Bilic's current options in that position?

"I think it has been difficult for them with no established striker for a while for them to feed. This season will make a world of difference".

Bish was of-course referring to our striker-crises last-season, where woeful Argentine Jonathan Calleri featured throughout the closing games in the absence of Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho. This resulted in a dreadful run of form and a finish to the season to forget.

There have been rumours in the past stating that Bishop may return to the Hammers fold one day as an attacking coach, but the cult hero was quick to dismiss a return to the Premier League when we asked him about his future and what his current projects are.

"I have been working on a training aid for grass roots players. I was coaching youth players for ten years here but have hung up my coaching boots, as it is too difficult here to make the powers that be see sense.

Bish also light-heartedly added, "I play some Poker and ride my Harley" in relation to his current hobbies and past times. The comments will end the speculation and disappoint Hammers who were dreaming of a reunion for the great, but it will be a well-deserved rest in retirement for Bishop.

The final question that we asked the cult hero in our exclusive interview was about an issue that is close to the heart of every Hammer, the move to Stratford. Bish had the pleasure of playing at Upton Park in its heyday and is clearly not a fan of the controversial London Stadium.

"I am old school and believe in the old-style football stadium," testified Bish. "But it was a great place to play and we feared no one there. I miss the place like mad since moving in 98 but will always have amazing memories".

"But it was a great place to play and we feared no one there. I miss the place like mad since moving in 98 but will always have amazing memories".

The elegant midfielder clearly has fond memories of the arena in which he scored so many dazzling goals and shares the pain that is felt by many Hammers fans as it lays in ruin.

Even 19-years after he departed East-London, Ian Bishop remains a true cult hero and an all-time Hammers great. Also, a man who still clearly has an undying love for the club that he spent the majority of his career with, but overall, a footballing icon and a true gentleman.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 8th August 2017

West Ham sign Montenegro international Sead Haksabanovic
WHUFC.com

West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Montenegro attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic.

The exciting 18-year-old joins the Hammers on a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee from Swedish club Halmstads BK, where he became the second-youngest player in Allsvenskan league history in April 2015.

Blessed with searing pace, outstanding technical ability and vision and an eye for goal, Haksabanovic has already made 70 first-team appearances and made his senior international debut in May.

Now, the Sweden-born player will bring his wide range of talents to the Hammers, London Stadium and the Premier League.

"I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," said Haksabanovic, who becomes the third former Halmstads player to join the Hammers after Sweden stars Niclas Alexandersson and Fredrik Ljungberg.

"West Ham is a big club and it is a nice feeling to have signed. The move happened quite fast - we heard that they wanted me, so I was interested to hear the plan for me and when I did I was very pleased.

"I am an attacking player, I like to dribble and shoot, but I work hard for the team. I am really looking forward to getting started, I have watched quite a few West Ham games in the Premier League and I can see that they have some great players and great fans.

"Now I just want to get used to being with the team and then hopefully play some games at some point next season."

Haksabanovic was born in the small village of Hyltebruk 35 miles north east of Halmstad, joining the club at the age of six in 2006.

Nine years later, he became HBK's youngest-ever player when he debuted at IFK Norrkoping in the Allsvenskan on 9 April 2015, aged just 15 years, eleven months and six days.

Halmstad were relegated in 2015, but Haksabanovic's eight goals and seven assists in 30 appearances saw them promoted from the Superettan at the first attempt.

Back in the top flight, the teenager has continued to impress this season, starting all 18 Allsvenskan fixtures and scoring four goals, despite playing for a team which has won just two league matches.

Internationally, Haksabanovic featured for Sweden at U17 and U19 level before switching his allegiance to Montengero – the country of his father's birth – earlier this year.

A senior debut arrived on 10 June in Podgorica, when he played the final six minutes of his nation's 4-1 FIFA World Cup qualifying win over Armenia – a victory which kept them second in Group E.

Everyone at West Ham United would like to welcome Sead to London Stadium the best of luck as he embarks on a new career in Claret and Blue.

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Carabao Cup second round draw details
WHUFC.com

In the event that West Ham United are drawn at home in Round Two of the Carabao Cup then they will be given special dispensation by the EFL Board to play the fixture at the opposition's venue, due to a previously agreed arrangement that London Stadium was to stage the 2017 IAAF World Championships in August.

If the draw dictates this is required, then the EFL Board will determine a level of compensation to be paid by West Ham to the opposing club. No further 2017/18 Carabao Cup ties will be affected in the event that the Hammers progress in the competition and are drawn at home.

An EFL spokesman said: "The Board of the EFL has carefully considered a request from West Ham United and, given the circumstances they faced when relocating to their new stadium, felt it was wholly appropriate to agree to a fixture reversal."

The Carabao Cup Round Two draw will take place live on Sky Sports News on Thursday 10 August 2017, following the Bury versus Sunderland televised Round One tie.

The 13 Premier League clubs not competing in UEFA competitions will enter the competition at Round Two, along with Hull City and Middlesbrough from the Sky Bet Championship.

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Byram: We'll definitely be looking to finish in the top half
WHUFC.com

Sam Byram has set a top-ten target for West Ham United.

The right-back arrived in east London in January 2016 helped the Hammers to seventh in the Premier League just a few months later. Byram's first full season in Claret and Blue was less successful position-wise, as Slaven Bilic's side ended the 2016/17 campaign in eleventh – albeit 17 points worse off than they had been a year previously.

As he prepares to begin his third season as a West Ham player, the No22 pointed to the summer signings of Pablo Zabaleta, Joe Hart, Marko Arnautovic and Chicharito as four real reasons for optimism.

"I think the signings we've made show the ambition of the Club," said Byram. "We've got a great squad and we'll definitely be looking to finish in the top half of the table and see how well we can do."

One of those four transfer window captures, Zabaleta, will battle Byram for the starting position on the right side of Slaven Bilic's defence.

However, with different qualities – Zabaleta has vast experience and tactical nous, while Byram has pace and a relentless willingness to get forward – the 23-year-old knows both will likely be called on by the Croatian during the upcoming campaign.

"Every player is going to have competition in a top team and West ham are a top club, so we've got competition all over the pitch," he observed. "For me, I've just got to keep working hard and try to impress the manager and get in the team."

Byram featured in all six of West Ham's pre-season matches, having returned to Rush Green early following his summer holiday, and he is hoping that hard work pays off in the shape of game-time in the opening Premier League fixture of 2017/18 at Manchester United.

The Hammers head to Old Trafford on Sunday on the back of a 3-0 pre-season defeat by Manchester City in Iceland, taking the number of goals conceded in those six matches to ten, and Byram has joined the chorus of voices calling for a defensive improvement.

"We were obviously disappointed with the result and we knew we were in for a tough test against a top team, but it's the sort of challenge we needed before the Premier League starts next weekend," he confirmed.

"We've let in a few goals that we are not too pleased about. Manchester United have similar quality and are up there and will be challenging this year, but we've also made some good signings so we want to group together and put in a good performance."

West Ham's opening Premier League fixture at Manchester will be screened live by Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League from 3.30pm on Sunday 13 August.

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Loan watch: Cullen and Burke debut for Bolton
WHUFC.com

Josh Cullen and Reece Burke both made their Bolton Wanderers debuts at the end of the week which saw them move on loan to the Macron Stadium.

The Trotters took on Leeds United in their Championship opener on Sunday, but were beaten 3-2 in an entertaining clash in the north west.

Hammers midfielder Cullen, who impressed in League One on loan at Bradford City last campaign, started the match for Phil Parkinson's men, but the visitors took the lead early on when Kalvin Phillips found the back of the net after seven minutes.

The division's 2016/17 top goalscorer Chris Wood then doubled Leeds' lead to complete a disastrous first half an hour of the season for Bolton.

Gary Madine pulled one back with six minutes remaining in the opening period, but Phillips was on hand to double his career Championship goal-tally in less than a half of football when he tapped home before the break.

An Adam Le Fondre penalty gave the hosts hope in the second half, but Wanderers – who handed Burke a debut from the bench in the 53rd minute – could not equalise.

Parkinson's outfit have an opportunity to bounce back immediately on Wednesday when they take on Crewe Alexandra in the Carabao Cup first round.

Meanwhile, Borussia Monchengladbach took on Leicester City in their final pre-season clash of the campaign on Friday, though Reece Oxford missed out with an ankle problem.

The Foxes ran out 2-1 winners, with Jamie Vardy bagging a brace to turn the game around after Thorgan Hazard had given the German side the lead early in the second half.

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Westley's youngsters ready for Billericay clash
WHUFC.com

Terry Westley sees Tuesday night's clash against Billericay Town as a final chance for his U23 players to cement a spot in the starting XI before the league season kicks-off on Friday.

The Premier League 2 outfit travel to the AGP Arena to face the Isthmian League club in their last pre-season fixture of the campaign before Everton visit Dagenham and Redbridge later this week.

The youngsters have faced a number of tough friendly tests already, having taken on the likes of Football League sides Colchester United and Barnet, and with the number of experienced heads in the Blues' side, Tuesday is likely to be no different.

Former Hammer Paul Konchesky is a key player for the hosts, while ex-Tottenham Hotspur man Jamie O'Hara is club captain. Former Premier League journeyman Jermaine Pennant also signed for the club this summer.

Hammers boss Westley acknowledged the game will be a tricky one, but challenged his players to prove themselves before the league campaign begins three days later.

He said: "It will be a hard game against Billericay, but we are looking at it as a real chance for some players to prove themselves for a final time this pre-season when we play on Tuesday.

"It's a chance to try and get a spot in the starting XI for when we kick-off our league campaign against Everton on Friday at Dagenham.

"It will be a game where those players who have been away with the first team this pre-season, they'll get to play with the group for a first time this summer, which is something we haven't had.

"We played Spurs at the weekend too, which was a good measure of where we are, so we're looking forward to this last friendly."

The Hammers have had a positive pre-season in full, beating National League Dagenham and Redbridge 2-1 after narrow defeats to Colchester and Barnet.

They then travelled to Slovakia to take on two local sides, and after a defeat followed by a win in mainland Europe, Westley was pleased with the trip.

"It was a really great trip in Slovakia for us," the Academy Director continued. "We had the players working in the morning and in the afternoon, and then they were doing analysis work in the evening.

"It was great to have everyone together for that. It was a full-on, seven day programme and we had two very good games in great stadiums with great pitches, which was very important to us.

"We were really pleased with the second game in particular, with the manner in which we played."

Supporters can purchase tickets at the turnstiles at the AGP Arena on Tuesday, and kick-off is at 7:45pm.

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Sead Haksabanovic: West Ham sign teenager from Halmstads BK
BBC.co.uk

West Ham United have signed teenage attacking midfielder Sead Haksabanovic from Swedish club Halmstads BK for an undisclosed fee. The 18-year-old, who cost a reported £2.7m, has agreed a five-year contract. The Montenegro player made his debut in Sweden's top flight in April 2015 when aged just 15 - the second-youngest ever in that league - and has already made more than 70 first-team appearances. "I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," he said.

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Carabao Cup: West Ham to play away tie after World Athletics Championships
BBC.co.uk

West Ham have been given special dispensation to play their Carabao Cup second-round tie away from home as London Stadium will still not be ready to host football matches. The Hammers already had permission to travel away for their opening three games of the Premier League season. London Stadium is currently hosting the World Athletics Championships. West Ham will have to pay compensation to their opponents if they are drawn at home and the tie is switched. Home and away clubs in the EFL Cup split gate receipts equally.

The World Athletics Championships event finishes on 13 August, with seating and branding needing to be changed before the Hammers move back into the 57,000-capacity stadium. The EFL Cup second-round draw takes place live on Thursday, 10 August, with the 13 Premier League clubs who have not qualified for European competitions entering the draw.

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THE CAUTIOUS WATCHER ON THE TRANSFER WINDOW
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 AUGUST 2017 AT 10:34PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @StevenMcCarthy9

This window is one that I am struggling to really come to terms with, why? Because I have no idea whether to be optimistic or apprehensive for the season ahead. In my opinion we are still 3 or 4 signings away from competing for a top 8 or even 10 position. I think Javier Hernandez is a fantastic player and the type of professional on and off the pitch that we should be aiming to bring into the club. However he is not a proven 20+ goal a season striker.
He scored 20 goals across all Competitions in the great 2010/11 season for Manchester United (not such a great one for us!) – but he had the world class talents of Berbatov, Tevez and a truly brilliant Nani on the wing that season to aid him to his 13 League Goal. To put that into perspective, Antonio our top scorer last season, scored 9 goals last season despite missing 9 games. And my worry is that he is simply not enough along side our current injury prone triplet in competition for a striker role.

At the moment we have 4 attacking players on upwards of 80,000 a week, Carroll, Ayew, Arnautovic and Hernandez.
With Lanzini hopefully added to the list soon signing a new contract. However only one of this is regarded as both a regularly fit player and goalscorer, yet he is still to even make his competitive debut. The signing of Arnautovic is another great one, a player who's entering his prime and show's the promise to be a real fan favourite with his size, power, skill and pace. The idea of Arnie on the wing and Antonio on the right wing is one that I think West Ham fans have every right to be optimistic about. Ayew is then surely the first player to fill in either wing side or centre forward with Sofiane.F and Snodgrass seemingly on the way out the door.

I am a fan of Ayew, despite his injuries he is a quick and skilful player who also has a habit of finding the back of the net. With the injury prone triplet of Carroll, Sakho and Ayew (who's injury history I discussed at length in my Gary Lewin article), David Sullivan spoke to the press and stated that Sakho should be 100% for the start of the season, this to my mind is either a sick joke on West Ham fans. You could argue it is a simple ploy to place the player in the shop window, however my cynical West Ham fan nature is not so sure! The notion of an injury free Sakho is one that we know has the potential to find the back of the net, however it is one that worries me! Due to the nature of his back injury itself, the likelihood of him staying injury free for more than a few months are high and extremely unlikely. Aside from goals, a fully fit Sakho also brings his well known toxic attitude, and even further risk of inflating his ego with which he can potentially cause trouble. I personally think we need to get shot of him, whether it is simply to free up his 35,000 weekly wages or simply reduce the risk of dressing room unrest.

The 16 million we nearly received for him last year is only the stuff of dreams for us at the moment, and I would bite your hand off for even half of that! Should Carroll and Sakho become injured (more a matter of when) then we have Ayew and the unproven but clearly talented Martinez to choose from to partner or replace Hernandez.

I would love to bring youth through with Martinez regularly coming on late in the games to run defences ragged, however I think we need to look at someone bigger for that role – Andy Carroll. Martinez should in my opinion be out cup striker, starting all our cup games and getting game time that way. Carroll should be seen as nothing more than a bit part player in my mind, I think that in terms of reducing injury risk and keeping him fit for as long as possible, we should only use him as such. Particularly over the first few months of his injury return, we should just chuck him on during the last 20 minutes of games and let him throw himself about and bully defences.
We simply cannot rely on him to be anything close to a regular starter this season, because it feels like as soon as we do, he picks up another long term injury. The negativity around him at the moment, wether it be in his off field antics, regular injuries or the constant disappointment of reading he won't make the squads week after week, is something detrimental to both players and fans. Personally if we could sell him for anything over 10 million I would help him move out his house and help with the fixtures and fittings at his new gaff. This would make a big physical striker top of our priority list, I would aim for Llorente who scored 15 League goals last season. And then aim for an ambitious loan with an option to buy in the form of Batshuayi.

But another concerning factor for me is that we also need more signings across the park. Specifically the middle of the pitch is a worry for us, as @Farehamhammer brilliantly put just the other day when discussing this issue! I love Noble and I think that taking into account the elements of professionalism and Passion he brings are priceless, however he has only shown glimpses of the quality we truly need to see. Take for example our last season at the Boleyn, he showed glimpses of Scott Parker's central midfield quality. He would break up play, burst forward and his passing was more often than not accurate. In contrast to last season and arguably multiple prior, he failed to do so on a regular basis. Noble however is almost unsellable with the overall elements, including passion and love of the club, however I do think he should be considered a squad player. Hopefully being introduced into our staff and coaching setup over the course of the coming seasons.

What I personally think we need to find a true engine and powerhouse in Central Midfielder. Look at how important Kante was to both Leicester and Chelsea's title winning seasons, having that player who is not worried about getting stuck in and running countless miles on the pitch, whether it is to chase back or break forward is a priceless thing for a side. Obiang's composure, range of passing and great technique are something that was priceless to the team last season. Kouyate compliments him incredibly well too with his height, strength, power and aerial presence.
But most importantly in my opinion is the ability to win back and retain possession, West Ham simply give the ball away too often. It has been our downfall for years. With Oxford out on loan, I would love to see Fernandez get his shot in the middle of the park more regularly. He has impressed me with his pace and presence on the pitch, particularly during our win against Chelsea in the Cup, however I cannot see him as much of a ball winning midfielder.

Who would I sign to try and add that quality to our squad? That is a really tough question, I like Wilshere, but he is neither physically imposing or consistently fit, which is surely a massive requirement for someone entering our side.
Lewis Baker is top talent off the Chelsea production and youth player shopping lists, at 22 I think he is another with a big point to prove. If we could sign him on either a loan or permanent deal, I feel he could really drive our midfield forward. On loan at Vitesse last year he really impressed with his overall play, willingness to run and technique. I think despite his impressive time on loan, he is a player who would not cost a huge amount to bring across London.

If I were to be even more ambitious, why not pull out all the stops to bring in Renato Sanches from Bayern Munich.
The promising centre mid has been told he can leave the Allianz Arena on loan or permanently after struggling to cement a first team place…I see this as a total shot in the dark to be honest.
But if you don't ask you don't get! And it would be a good statement for our club to have taken in one of Europes hottest young properties, even if it is only on a loan deal. Sanchez is an incredibly powerful and speedy player who I think could be a starter for any of the clubs outside the top 4. If you wanted someone not as physically imposing, but more of a defensive minded player then Malaga's Pablo Fornals would be a fantastic addition who is valued at around 11 Million Euros. He isn't a house hold name, nor is he as flamboyant as Sanches, but his energy and technique are his real strengths!

Before I end this article, I want to take a moment to say that I am one of the fans who is neither board in or out.
However even the biggest board supporter would concede that the transfer policy is truly shocking, whether it be out constant leaks to the press, the sniping at suggested targets or even just declaring interest in every player under the sun before just fizzling it out slowly. They have taken on our debt and spent incredibly well when faced with the challenge of returning us into the top flight and then cementing us back there. Our wage structure has ballooned and we have seen the club sign our first ever 20million pound players.

However I fear that they are still reluctant to spend big on individual players, merely stating interest and not pulling out all the stops to sign a real talent.You only have to look at the amount of money spent overall this summer, 19million pounds, something that could soon greatly decrease should the sale of Feghouli go through. The supposed 50, 60 or even 80million budget that was suggested is what we need to compete for a top posistion. I am aware I might sound like an Ungateful c**t here, to which numerous fans have called me on Twitter! But The Boleyn Ground, Payet and Season ticket sales money is well in excess of that. But with the constant statements of intent and promise of players, they simply cannot believe the owners believe we have enough to challenge for a top 10 or 8 place in the crazy spending League.

I would love to hear what you think and your transfer views @StevenMcCarthy9 and hopefully this article is proved to be terribly wrong by the end of next season! COYI's!!!

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West Ham sign Sead Haksabanovic on five-year deal from Halmstads
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 07/08/17 9:31pm
SSN

West Ham have completed the signing of Sead Haksabanovic on a five-year contract from Swedish club Halmstads. The 18-year-old, who has already made 70 first-team appearances in Swedish football, passed a medical with the Hammers on Monday and signs for an undisclosed fee. Haksabanovic was handed his debut for Halmstads in 2015 at the age of 15 and the attacking midfielder has scored four goals in 18 appearances in the Swedish Allsvenskan this season.
He represented Sweden at youth level but chose to switch allegiances to Montenegro and made his debut for the national team in June this year, coming on as a substitute in the 4-1 World Cup qualifying win against Albania. "I'm really happy to be here - it's a dream come true," Haksabanovic told the club's official website. "West Ham is a big club and it is a nice feeling to have signed. The move happened quite fast - we heard that they wanted me, so I was interested to hear the plan for me and when I did I was very pleased "I am an attacking player, I like to dribble and shoot, but I work hard for the team. I am really looking forward to getting started, I have watched quite a few West Ham games in the Premier League and I can see that they have some great players and great fans. "Now I just want to get used to being with the team and then hopefully play some games at some point next season."

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West Ham fans blast 'double standards' over treatment in and around London Stadium
HITC
Damien Lucas

High profile West Ham United fans have blasted what has been described as 'double standards' at their new home. The Hammers' move to Stratford from their beloved Upton Park has been beset by problems from the start. From in-fighting among the club's fans to segregation issues, violent scenes between home and away supporters and a general dissatisfaction with the atmosphere and feel of a ground many refer to as 'soulless', it has left a bitter taste in what was supposed to be a memorable and historic campaign. Having signed a 99-year lease many supporters are disillusioned at the prospect of a long-term future at the ground in it's current state.

Popular fans website Knees Up Mother Brown compiled a brilliant 10-point message to David Sullivan, David Gold and Karren Brady detailing what needs to change if supporters are to embrace the stadium long-term. General view inside the stadium during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium on May 14, 2017 in Stratford, England. One bone of contention for supporters has been the way they are treated by nearby Westfield Shopping Centre and the way athletics and music fans have been treated during events there.

At the weekend, KUMB editor Graeme Howlett put it to Westfield and London Stadium operators that they treated Hammers fans with double standards over access to and standing in the ground "Athletics fans, Depeche Mode fans and away supporters all stand. Yet West Ham fans, who pay the most, are ordered to sit at the London Stadium," Howlett put to the stadium operators on Twitter.

Follow
Graeme Howlett @kumbdotcom
Athletics fans, Depeche Mode fans and away supporters all stand. Yet WHUFC fans, who pay the most, are ordered to sit at the @LondonStadium. https://twitter.com/lkhammer/status/893921260593393665 …
8:55 PM - Aug 5, 2017
5 5 Replies 25 25 Retweets 39 39 likes
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That came after Tom Peck, a political correspondent at the Independent, blasted the shopping centre company as he tweeted a picture showing that barriers usually in place on West Ham matchdays were down for the Athletics, as they also were for music events earlier this year "The route past Westfield Stratford shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke," Peck said.

Tom Peck ✔ @tompeck
The route past @WestfieldStrat shops and cafes wide open for athletics fans, not locked and bolted like it is for West Ham fans. Utter joke.
6:29 PM - Aug 4, 2017
36 36 Replies 191 191 Retweets 238 238 likes

Howlett then followed up Peck's tweet up by asking for some clarity from Westfield. "Your policy, Westfield Stratford - I'm sure I'm not the only West Ham supporter who'd appreciate an explanation. Pretty please?" Howlett said.

Graeme Howlett @kumbdotcom
Your policy, @westfieldstrat - I'm sure I'm not the only WHUFC supporter who'd appreciate an explanation. Pretty please? https://twitter.com/tompeck/status/893524287432404993 …
6:45 PM - Aug 5, 2017
23 23 Replies 45 45 Retweets 77 77 likes

The club's relationship with Westfield Shopping Centre next door is crucial and at the moment West Ham fans are being treated like second class citizens there despite pouring millions of pounds into its food and drink outlets and shops already. At the first two games at the stadium last season - against Domzale in the Europa League and Juventus in the official opening game - the various exits in Westfield were open which allowed a number of options for fans to filter down on their way to the stadium.

Not only did that ensure fans did not feel like second class citizens, it also avoided the ridiculous bottleneck which now takes place inside the shopping centre as fans and shoppers have one single exit to use.

A message for the West Ham United fans is seen on the LED screen inside the stadium after the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium on May 14, 2017...

The decision to close off the exits before the game means a long walk, thousands of fans getting in the way of shoppers and people turning up to the game in a bad mood from the get go.

After all the Hammers fans are spending their money in and around Westfield just like anyone else and as long as they behave themselves should be treated with more respect.

There is a distinct lack of common sense being used in all aspects so far and it must be sorted for next season.

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Andy Carroll undergoing brutal training regime in bid to get fit for West Ham
The striker has missed far too much time injured but is making a comeback - again
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
07:00, 8 AUG 2017

Andy Carroll is reportedly undergoing gruelling double sessions of fitness work to get him back into shape ahead of the new Premier League season, according to reports.

Under the watchful new West Ham of new head of medical services Gary Lewin, the injury-plagued frontman - who won't be fit for the start of the season - is undergoing a tough regime, pushing him to the absolute maximum with double training, fitness sessions and "punishing gym work" which is hoped will discover where he injury problems are coming from.

Carroll struggled with knee, groin and adductor problems and that was just last season as he missed a lot of game time which often led to an exasperated manager in Slaven Bilic.

The striker found some form at the end of last year and the turn of the year and that led to calls of a potential England call-up but he got injured before Gareth Southgate was due to watch him at home to West Brom and that was that.

Carroll isn't the only striker undergoing a return to fitness as Diafra Sakho is on his way back as well, having featured for the U23s in a behind-closed-doors game against Spurs, which West Ham won 3-2.

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Who is Sead Haksabanovic? Everything you need to know about West Ham's new wonderkid
The Hammers have confirmed the signing the Swedish-born wonderkid
Football London
BYADAM JONES
21:43, 7 AUG 2017

West Ham have confirmed a deal to bring Montengro international Sead Haksabanovic to the London Stadium this evening. The 18-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Hammers for an officially undisclosed fee - but the price is reportedly around the £3m mark.

ESPN broke the rumours earlier today that West Ham were close to bringing the attacking midfielder to East London - with is performances this season attracting attention from a number of clubs. But, if you're not a regular watcher of Swedish football, you might not have ever heard of Sead Haksabanovic.

In that case, we're done all the research so you don't have to:

Background

Sead Haksabanovic has been a one-club man throughout his career - even at youth level. Born in Sweden, but now taking Montenegrin nationality thanks to his father, the attacking midfielder has represented Halmstads BK throughout his football career so far. Capable of playing both through the middle and on the left, he was handed his debut in the Swedish second division in 2015, but had to wait until 2016 for his first goal with the club. However, the 2016 season was a brilliant one for the midfielder - bagging eight goals in 30 league appearances to help Halmstads BK earn promotion to the first division.

Last season

Sweden are currently in the midst of the season - with most clubs already having played either 17 or 18 of their 30 games so far. Haksabanovic has been an ever-present so far for Halmstads BK - bagging four goals in the process and averaging an impressive 2.8 shots per game. Not bad for an 18-year-old.

Is he an international?

Despite only being 18 years old, Haksabanovic is indeed a full international. After representing Sweden at both U17 and U19 level, the midfielder has now chosen to represent Montenegro at national level. His one international appearance to date came in June 2017 - coming on as an 84th minute substitute during a 4-1 World Cup qualifying win over Albania.

How likely is a move?

Well, according to the reports from EPSPN, the deal has already been agreed to see Sead Haksabanovic join West Ham for £2.7 million. And, on the face of it, you'd have to assume that a move to a Premier League club would be highly tempting for someone in that stage of their career.

Is anyone else interested?

Well, it doesn't look like. These reports are in their early stages - but it seems that West Ham as as clear a run at Haksabanovic as they're ever going to get. Do the deal quickly lads if it's serious!

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