Daily WHUFC News - 25th October 2017

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

West Ham United travel to Wembley Stadium to take on Tottenham Hotspur in
the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday evening.

The Hammers will be making their first appearance at the Home of Football
since winning the 2012 Championship Play-Off final.

Here, we set you up for the big game with all the essential information,
details and facts...

Where and when

West Ham United will travel to Wembley Stadium for Wednesday's Carabao Cup
fourth-round tie, with kick-off at 8pm.

The Hammers have played at the Home of Football ten times previously, with
the most-recent visit coming in May 2012, when Sam Allardyce's Hammers
defeated Blackpool 2-1 in the Championship Play-Off final.

That victory was West Ham's only visit to the 'new' Wembley, which opened in
2007. Prior to that, the Hammers won three FA Cup finals (1964, 1975 and
1980), lost another (the first-ever FA Cup final at Wembley in 1923), lifted
the European Cup Winners' Cup (1965) and Football League War Cup (1940),
were beaten in two FA Charity Shields (1975 and 1980) and drew a League Cup
final (1981).

How to catch the match

Wednesday's tie will be shown live on Sky Sports on Sky Sports Main Event
and Sky Sports Football, with coverage beginning at 7.30pm.

You can also follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com, with
updates also available on Twitter throughout the evening. You can also
follow the match in different ways on our official Instagram, Facebook and
Snapchat channels!

Audio coverage will also be provided by BBC Radio London Sport and 5live
sports extra.

Match officials

Referee: Mike Dean
Assistant Referees: Simon Long and Ian Hussin
Fourth Official: Lee Mason

Wednesday's tie will be refereed by one of English football's
most-experienced match officials in 49-year-old Mike Dean - the 50th time he
will take charge of a West Ham United fixture.

The Wirral-born Dean has refereed the Hammers in three previous meetings
with Spurs - a 4-3 Premier League defeat at the Boleyn Ground in March 2007,
goalless draw at White Hart lane in March 2011 and Tottenham's 3-2 win in
north London in November 2016.

Meet the opposition

Tottenham Hotspur have made a strong start to the 2017/18 season, losing
just one of the 13 matches they have contested in all competitions - a 2-1
Premier League defeat by Chelsea at Wembley on 20 August.

Since then, Spurs have won eight and drawn two, scoring wins over Borussia
Dortmund, Liverpool and Everton and holding Real Madrid in the Spanish
capital in the UEFA Champions League, conceding just five goals in the
process.

With White Hart Lane being redeveloped, Spurs are playing their home games
at Wembley this season and have won their last four at the Home of Football
in all competitions.

Player to watch

Manuel Lanzini has scored in three of his four career appearances against
Tottenham Hotspur, including a winner in West Ham United's 1-0 Premier
League victory at London Stadium in May 2017.

The Argentina international has netted nine of his 14 goals in Claret and
Blue against London opposition.

Head to head

West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur have met six times previously in the
League Cup, with each club progressing on three occasions.

The first meeting came as long ago as 1966, when Geoff Hurst netted the only
goal in a second round tie at the Boleyn Ground. Nine years later, Spurs
prevailed 2-0 in a fourth-round replay at the Boleyn, following a goalless
draw at White Hart Lane.

In December 1980, David Cross was the Hammers' fifth-round hero at the
Boleyn, but Spurs leveled the head-to-head record again in February 1987
courtesy of a 5-0 fifth-round replay win at White Hart Lane.

October 2003 saw Spurs prevail after extra-time in a fourth-round tie at
White Hart Lane, but West Ham made it three wins apiece when Matt Jarvis and
Modibo Maiga scored in a thrilling 2-1 fifth-round victory in N17 in
December 2013.

Last five meetings

West Ham United 2-3 Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, 23 September 2017
West Ham United 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, 5 May 2017
Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 West Ham United, Premier League, 19 November 2016
West Ham United 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, 2 March 2016
Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 West Ham United, Premier League, 22 November 2015

Did you know?

Belgium international Francois van der Elst (pictured, above), is one of
four West Ham United players to have netted a League Cup fourth round
hat-trick. Geoff Hurst, John Sissons and Frank Lampard are the other three.
West Ham United scored their record League Cup victory over Leeds United,
7-0, at the Boleyn Ground on 7 November 1966
West Ham United's all-time League Cup fourth round record is as follows:
Played 35, Won 16, Drawn 3, Lost 16, Goals For 59, Goals Against 41

How to get there

As you might expect, Wembley Stadium is easy to get to from central London
by public transport.

West Ham United supporters should take the Jubilee or Metropolitan line from
Baker Street to Wembley Park. Alternatively, fans can take a mainline
service from London Marylebone to Wembley Stadium.

The third option, which necessitates a slightly longer 20-minute walk to the
stadium, is to take a Bakerloo, London Overground, London Midland or
Southern service to Wembley Central. For full public transport information,
visit the Transport for London website.

Parking is very limited at Wembley and supporters planning to drive should
book in advance.

Ticket information

All 4,800 Standard Tickets for this fixture sold out to Season Ticket
Holders with 8+ Priority Points. Accessibility Ticket information can be
found here.

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Adrian ready for Tottenham challenge
WHUFC.com

Adrian is ready to grasp every opportunity he is given this season and is
ready to show what he can do if selected for Wednesday's Carabao Cup fourth
round tie at Tottenham Hotspur. The Hammers head to Wembley looking to
avenge last month's league defeat to the north Londoners and move to the
competition's quarter-final stage. Adrian has played his part in the team's
cup run so far, keeping clean sheets in both his outings this season at
Cheltenham Town and in the previous round's victory over Bolton Wanderers,
so he is keen for more of the same in Wednesday's derby. He explained: "To
me it is very important to do my best and help my teammates in every
opportunity I get this season. "That is the most important thing, so to keep
a clean sheet and beat Bolton in the last round was great. "I had the chance
to play in that game, we moved into the next round and now we have a really
exciting game against Tottenham. "We have to prepare for this and it is a
massive game in a massive stadium. "We need to go there and give our best,
and if I have the chance to play I need to give my best as well."

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Cresswell: Only the players can turn our form around
WHUFC.com

Aaron Cresswell is not short of reasons to be highly motivated when West Ham
United take on Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley in the Carabao Cup. Not only is
the defender desperate to turn around the Hammers' recent run of indifferent
form, but he has one eye on lifting the first major trophy of his
professional career, and a win would take Cresswell and his teammates
through to the quarter-finals. With the added incentive of putting on a
positive performance in front of a passionate 50,000-plus crowd and a
television audience of millions at the historic Home of Football, and
avenging last month's Premier League defeat by Spurs, the No3 is both
motivated and excited by the prospect of Wednesday's mouth-watering London
derby. "It's a massive game against Spurs, as it always is, and it's even
more so as it's at Wembley, which is one of the most iconic and best
stadiums in Europe," he said. "To play there in a derby against Spurs in the
cup is one we're all excited to and looking forward to. "Getting beat
against Spurs at home and how the run has been going for us recently, which
is not so good, give us extra motivation for Wednesday night. It is only
down to us to turn that around and there is no better place to do it or team
to do it against. "I've played at Wembley for England and been involved in
squads a couple of times and it's one of the best stadiums to play in. I am
sure it will be a good atmosphere and I hope we can enjoy it and get a good
result."

Cresswell and the Hammers reached the quarter-finals of the same competition
last season, beating Accrington Stanley and Chelsea before losing out at
Manchester United. The left-back is aware that West Ham need to overcome
in-form opposition if they are to emulate that achievement, but he says
Slaven Bilic's side need to rise to the occasion if they are to continue
their quest for the Club's first major silverware in 38 years. "Of course,
Spurs have got some fantastic players and you want to play against the best
players in the world, testing yourself in the best stadiums in the biggest
games you can. Certainly, Wembley against Spurs is a massive game. "As
players, you want to win something or be involved in finals. I've never won
a competition like this, and I don't think many of the boys in the dressing
room have either, so hopefully we can beat Spurs and progress further into
the cup. This is a great chance to do that."

Looking further ahead, West Ham face a vital Premier League fixture at
bottom club Crystal Palace on Saturday – a game Cresswell says the Hammers
must raise their game for if they want to avoid a potential relegation
battle. "It is only the starting XI or the 18 in the squad on a matchday who
can change it, and all we can do is work hard on the training pitch and give
our best to turn around the situation around that we're in. "I know there
are only eight or nine games gone, but we certainly don't want to be sitting
around towards the back end of the table. For us, we've got to look forward
to these games and hopefully turn it around. "Every game is important. I'm
not going to say Wednesday or Saturday are more important because we want to
progress in the cup and move up the table and end this bad form that we're
in at the minute."

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Bilic: Massive Spurs game, Wembley and Marko Arnautovic
WHUFC.com

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic is hoping Wednesday night's Carabao Cup
tie against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur can get the Hammers back on the
right track after defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday. The
Croatian's side were beaten 3-0 by the Seagulls in the Premier League and
will be keen to put that to the back of their minds when they face Spurs.
The boss spoke to the press ahead of the fourth round match, talking
Tottenham, Wembley and Marko Arnautovic…

'It's massive – it's a derby'

Wednesday will mark the Hammers' first visit to Wembley since they were
triumphant in 2012's Championship play-off final. Spurs, of course, have the
national stadium as their home this campaign as they await the completion of
their new ground, and will host Bilic's men in the stadium's second London
derby of the season. But although playing at Wembley is special, according
to Bilic, the Hammers need no extra incentive to go and perform. "I don't
think we need that extra inspiration," he said. "We can't say we put more
effort it, it is a big game, it's a cup. "It's who goes to the
quarter-finals, it's against Spurs, it's massive and it's a derby, and it's
also Wembley, which makes it special, but that's not motivating us more than
normal. "The chance [to turn things around] is not coming in a couple of
weeks' time or three weeks, it's now, tomorrow night, which is a really good
thing in this situation. "We have to lift ourselves in training, I've had a
few talks with players individually and as I said, we have to play better
than we did on Friday."

Highs and lows

In Bilic's time in charge of the Hammers, the manager admitted there have
been highs and lows. However, when asked if he feels down after a bad
result, the manager said he chooses to focus on how his side turn things
around instead. The boss revealed his players met with each other on Monday,
chatting about what they can do to pick up positive results in the coming
weeks. And although he acknowledged the mood around the camp is not at its
most positive, Bilic remained upbeat about his team's chances. He said:
"They had a meeting. I know about that of course, I first had a meeting with
Mark [Noble]. It was a long chat and then after, they had a meeting. "I find
that very positive, of course. They know that the situation is serious, and
we have to play better and to get points, especially from our home games.
"We have had our successful periods and our down periods when we are losing,
like when we lost five on the trot in March, but the main reason why we get
out that situation a few times was that we continued to work hard and all
that. "I have no reason or indication to believe anything has changed in
that department. We have to stay focused. I have to lead the team, lead the
group and I have to get us playing better immediately. To be fair, I have a
game tomorrow and that's all I'm focused on. It's very big for us. I have
told you a few times, that it's all I can do, be totally focused and
determined to win the next game, or my next training. That's the only way
you can expect things to turn around. "[The mood] is not pleasant after the
defeat at home. We were hoping after we hit a pretty decent run in the last
six games, we were hoping and expecting that we are going to win the game
and put in a strong performance. When you lose 3-0 at home, you are
disappointed and frustrated and all that. "But we have a chance tomorrow and
we have another Premier League game very soon against Crystal Palace away,
and there is only one way to get out of this situation. That's by staying
together, staying focused and working very hard."

Marko Arnautovic

Austrian winger Marko Arnautovic, who signed from Stoke City in the summer
transfer window, is yet to show his best form in Claret and Blue. Bilic,
though, remains confident he will be a fans' favourite before long at London
Stadium. The 28-year-old has shown glimpses of his talent – including two
assists in the last round of the Carabao Cup against Bolton Wanderers – and
will be hoping to display his quality on a more consistent basis for the
Club. "If someone is letting you down in life, that person is normally doing
it deliberately," continued Bilic. "Marko – no, he didn't; I've spoken to
him a few times, he wants, he tries. "It would be a disaster to put the
blame on one, two or three players. We are all in the same boat, we are
together. Marko is a great talent and proved himself in the Premier League.
"He really wanted to come here. His first spell was disrupted with the red
card and then a bit of flu, and then the international break, but I'm very
positive and I'm sure that sooner or later – but it will be important if it
happens as soon as possible – that West Ham fans will be delighted with him.
"He has that quality and we all have to help him. That's why I also had a
talk with him yesterday. West Ham will benefit from Marko Arnautovic."

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

In the last round of the EFL Cup, Tottenham fielded Jan Vertonghen, Harry
Winks and Dele Alli as they edged past Barnsley 1-0 at Wembley. But having
negotiated several injuries and a hectic schedule in the last fortnight,
Mauricio Pochettino will have to dig further into the depths of his squad
for this game. Considering that West Ham have not faced such a flurry of
matches, they have a good chance of taking advantage. In particular, the
Hammers should target what will surely be an inexperienced Spurs backline.
Juan Foyth did play in that Barnsley match, but may not be surrounded by
such experience in this game, and will have rarely faced a striker of Andy
Carroll's stature before his summer switch from Argentinian side
Estudiantes. Slaven Bilic's side put two headers past Tottenham in the
league in September, and a repeat is possible if Carroll can make the most
of this physical mismatch. If he does, then the Hammers have every chance of
extending a run that has seen them beat Tottenham in three of their last
four campaigns. The last of those victories – a 1-0 win at London Stadium in
April that extinguished any hope of Spurs winning the title – was built on a
five-man defence, a system that Bilic may return to after Friday's
disappointment against Brighton. If used successfully, the Hammers should
stifle Spurs and play on the frustrations of the Wembley crowd, which is
likely to be sparse. It should also ensure that – in contrast with the
recent history of this fixture – this is not a high-scoring game. Spurs' win
over Liverpool was the first time that they have scored more than once in a
domestic home game at Wembley, which suggests that keeping their second
string quiet is eminently achievable for the Hammers. And while West Ham
beat Bolton 3-0 in the last round, they are less likely to push this game's
goal tally above 2.5.

Recommended bets
Andy Carroll to score – 13/5
Spurs to score under 1.5 goals – 8/5
Under 2.5 goals – 6/4

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Team news: Carroll set for return at Wembley, Adrian to start
WHUFC.com

Slaven Bilic confirmed Andy Carroll will return to the matchday squad when
his West Ham United side face Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup fourth
round on Wednesday evening. The forward, who was sent off for two bookable
offences against Burnley in the Premier League over a week ago, served his
one-match suspension when Brighton and Hove Albion travelled to London
Stadium on Friday. The boss also told the media in his pre-match press
conference that Spanish goalkeeper Adrian will start between the sticks
against the north Londoners. The 30-year-old has played every minute in the
competition so far this campaign and will continue in goal, taking over from
Joe Hart, on Wednesday. The Hammers take on Spurs at Wembley for a place in
the quarter-final of the competition after wins over Cheltenham Town and
Bolton Wanderers saw them reach the last-16.
Mauricio Pochettino's team were 3-2 winners when they travelled to London
Stadium in the Premier League earlier this season and Bilic's side will be
hoping for revenge on Wednesday. The boss also gave updates on the likes of
Michail Antonio – who suffered a knock against the Seagulls – as well as
James Collins and Diafra Sakho. He said: "We have Andy Carroll back in the
squad. Michail Antonio will definitely be out tomorrow because he had a
knock on his ribs in the first half against Brighton, but managed to play.
It's very painful, so he'll be out. "Then there are only Collins and Sakho,
who start to train with us for the first time today.
"Tomorrow it is going to be Adrian [in goal]."

Bilic fielded a strong XI when his outfit beat Bolton in the third round
back in September, with skipper Mark Noble, midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate and
summer signing Marko Arnautovic all starting in the 3-0 victory. And the
boss confirmed at Wembley, he is likely to do similar while also making a
few changes to his team. "[I will do] both of the above – [field a strong
side and rest players]. They are my players and they are my time. "Some of
them it's my third season and for the new players, I was involved in them
coming to the club and I rate them very highly. It's a big part of my job to
demand them to play better, and to help them to hit the form we want them to
hit. "We all have the same aim and same goal, both tomorrow and for the
season. It's my job to help them and definitely to lead them."

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'Keeping young people safe is at the heart of everything we do'
WHUFC.com

For West Ham United Foundation, safeguarding is a vital part of the work we
do every day. We sat down with Bryan Glover, Head of Football Development at
the Foundation to talk about how that happens in practice.

From our programmes in schools, right the way through to our life-changing
football opportunities, keeping our young people safe is of paramount
importance.

Our Soccer Schools, which run during the school holidays, are a key pillar
of our safeguarding work. With those Soccer Schools always expanding – now
based in wider areas of East London and Essex, it is vital we make sure each
venue is chosen for its high standing stature within the local community.

Each venue is visited prior to delivery and risk assessed, and then a daily
risk assessment is carried out prior to all delivery. With a ratio of 1
coach for every 16 children in place on all of our courses, we make sure
that coaches are able to constantly monitor the young people – helping keep
them safe.

All of our courses are visited a minimum of 2 times each week by both the
Soccer Schools Programme Lead and an Academy Integration Officer, ensuring
quality remains high and player pathways are in place. The courses are then
visited once a week by the Foundation's safeguarding team.

Outside of course time, our coaches are quality assured once a quarter, and
there are 4 CPD activities throughout the year to keep our coaches well
trained and refreshed.

Commenting on his commitment to safeguarding, Bryan said "I am proud of the
work we do on safeguarding, not only within my department but across the
Foundation and Club. Keeping our young people safe is at the heart of
everything we do, and we are committed to ensuring all of our courses are
high on quality, safety and of course fun! We continue to work hard to
ensure we are challenging ourselves to provide the safest football courses
in East London and Essex."

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Speedy striker Peters planning to continue fast start
WHUFC.com

Speedy West Ham United Ladies striker Molly Peters is planning to continue
her fast start to the season on Sunday. The Hammers host Queens Park Rangers
in the Women's Premier League Plate first round at Rush Green at 2pm – a tie
that also marks the Ladies' first-ever Family Fun Day. While the presence of
first-team players, a DJ and other activities will add to the occasion from
12noon, Peters is hoping her blistering pace will be the main attraction.
"Before I played football I used to do the 100m sprint and I got so good
that I did it competitively for the English schools," revealed Peters, who
is preparing to face Queens Park Rangers in the Women's Premier League Plate
first round at Rush Green on Sunday afternoon. "When I got into playing
football I realised I could combine the two and it's certainly worked in my
favour so far!"

It is not just her blistering pace that has caught the eye so far this
season. Peters has impressed her teammates and supporters with a string of
fantastic goals – she has four to her name in the Premier League Southern
Division already. Each of the young attacker's finishes this season have
been eye-catching or memorable for different reasons. Against Swindon Town,
Peters rounded the goalkeeper to slot home. Against Charlton Athletic, she
scored twice – creating one goal all on her own and netting a sensational
lobbed effort, the latter of which is her favourite so far. "The second goal
against Charlton was a beautiful goal. I couldn't believe it had gone in to
be honest. I just saw the goalkeeper off her line and decided to have a go.
"When it comes to scoring I usually try to knock it around the goalkeeper
with my speed, and then score. Or I'm outside the box and I just need to hit
it. So far that approach has been working and I loved the goals I've got
this season already."

There is a certain goal type that Peters does not score too often though,
that she really relishes when she gets the chance. "Obviously I love scoring
worldies, but I also really like getting the chance to score headers.
Because I'm so short I don't score many headers, so when I do get them I'm
absolutely over the moon!"

West Ham Ladies will be seeking to bounce back from last weekend's Capital
Women's Cup defeat at Crystal Palace on Sunday, and Peters is confident the
Hammers have the spirit and talent to overcome a QPR side which has just won
just once in the league this season. "I think the team, in the past few
games, have become a family. You have to have that. The atmosphere among the
girls both in training and on the pitch has been amazing. "This season is
about improvement, both for me personally and the team. I want to keep
scoring goals and there's a few games coming up where I should get the
chance to add to my tally. "We're playing really well as a group and we want
to keep developing. It's literally all about us improving together."

West Ham United Ladies host QPR Ladies at Rush Green on Sunday at 2pm. Gates
open for the Family Fun Day at 12noon, with free admission for Season Ticket
Holders and Claret Members.

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Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United
WED, 25 OCT 2017EFL CUP - FOURTH ROUND
20:00
Venue: Wembley Stadium
BBC.co.uk

England left-back Danny Rose is set to start a match for the first time
since January as Tottenham play West Ham in the Carabao Cup fourth round.
Rose, 27, suffered a knee injury against Sunderland on 31 January and made a
10-minute substitute appearance against Real Madrid last Tuesday.

West Ham goalkeeper Adrian, who has played in the last two rounds of the
competition, will replace Joe Hart. Striker Andy Carroll is also set to
return after serving a one-match ban.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said: "We are resting players because they
need to rest and we don't want to take risks." Midfielder Mousa Dembele
could play for the first time since the 1-0 win over Barnsley in the third
round after recovering from ankle and hip injuries, but winger Erik Lamela,
who has been out for nearly a year because of hip problems, remains
unavailable. "Dembele is on the list and in the last few days he has been
doing well," added Pochettino. "Lamela is doing well but is still not
available and I don't know when he will be. I can't say whether it will be
one week or one month. "We have to assess him every day and decide when he
is ready, but we need to be careful."

West Ham have only won once in five Premier League games and are 16th in the
league, but under-pressure boss Slaven Bilic is not concerned about
speculation concerning his job. He said: "We have to stay focused. I have to
lead the group and get us playing better. I have said a few times to the
press, all that I am focused on is my next game." Midfielder Michail Antonio
could miss out after he suffered a rib injury during the 3-0 defeat by
Brighton on Friday, while defender James Collins and striker Diafra Sakho
only returned to training this week. Tottenham beat West Ham 3-2 at the
London Stadium in September and both clubs were fined £20,000 for failing to
control their players after a late melee.

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85 years a Hammer
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th October 2017
By: Roger Roseboom

Back in 1944, my father took me to Craven Cottage where Fulham were playing
West Ham. My father was an ex-professional who came from the Glasgow Rangers
youth team (in 1914). He joined the Black Watch in the First World War, won
the military medal for bravery and survived the war (hence my later birth in
1932).
At the time West Ham had a full back, Charlie Bicknell, who had played with
my father at one of his clubs until injury took him out of the game. West
Ham won the game comfortably, 7-4 if my memory is correct.
After the game my father took me into the West Ham dressing room where I met
Jock Dodds, Archie Macauley, Len Goulden, Ernie Gregory and other giants of
the past. I was given the match ball, which was a 'tee-ball' with the usual
leather lace tie! From that moment on I was a West Ham supporter. I lived in
Fulham at the time and made the occasional trip to see Harry Hooper flying
down the wing, then young Harry Rednapp, etc. I wanted to be a professional
footballer, but at the age of 11 my father said "sorry son, you won't make
it ". I did have a trial for Chelsea in 1946 but he was right - I never made
it. Good amateur football followed including representing the Canal Zone
against the British Army's Cameron Highland Division - the hardest match I
have ever experienced.

Now aged 85, I gave up playing competitive football aged 55 as I could no
longer understand what the young team members were saying! I then took up
coaching primary school teams from which I finally retired three years ago.
I am pretty fit for my age. I have supported West Ham United through thick
and thin, the latter more often than I would wish. The growth of the club
has been financially correctly structured, but the investment in players has
been somewhat haphazard to say the least. Why this has happened confuses me
- it is equally important to ensure the right team is assembled as are the
bricks and pitch around them. It was the right decision to leave the
Boleyn, but I doubt if the present manager is the right one to instil
discipline in the current crop of players. The new ones arrive to a fanfare
of praise for past accomplishments, but then seem to fade away. Yes there
are individuals who will always give their best - Antonio, Lanzini, Kouyate
and Cresswell for example - but that is not enough. All 11 players must
always be mentally alert, physically fit and committed.

Here I must criticise the mentality of Andy Carroll - surely a professional
of his standing should never have committed the stupidity of being given two
yellow cards in two minutes? As a result, Brighton - a game for which
Carroll was banned - could relax and play their football without the problem
of having to use two players to keep Carroll under wraps. Only the day
before, Graham Souness was on TV extolling the need for every team to have a
senior player to motivate the team. Who is that player at West Ham? Another
problem is the fitness of Hernandez, who is no longer the sharp predator he
once was. The result of Carroll's rush of blood was to place Slaven Bilic
under more pressure. West Ham could have won that match against Brighton,
now what is his future ?

At the Boleyn, the ups and downs could be resolved, Now? The problem is the
financial deterioration should the Hammers be relegated to the Championship
as has happened before. That is a situation the club cannot allow.

Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.

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The unfathomable situation
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th October 2017
By: Trevor Twohig

So here we are once more, huddled together like penguins, waiting for the
news diligently, the news that doesn't come.

I feel like I have been here before. That's right, last September, following
the 4-2 defeat by Watford. This is not a case of I told you so (as I prepare
to say I kind of told you so), but Super Slav, is really not that super.

I mean, he's lovely and I like the fact that he goes to rock concerts and
wears band t-shirts and the players like him and all of that stuff, but when
it comes to managing the football club, he's just not that super. There, I
said it.

As stated, there we were. Cold and cross at the London Stadium, wondering
why we bothered as Zabaleta gave away a stone wall penalty and we stared
down the barrel of a 3-0 defeat, to a team just promoted and with the
greatest respect, were no great shakes.

Except of course, I was not there. I had already sold my season ticket on
the exchange as the thought of watching West Ham again after the Swansea
fixture, where we scraped home in the dying embers, by the skin of our
teeth, did not fill me with the joy.

I watched it of course from the comfort of my living room, knowing full well
that the forty quid for my ticket sits comfortably in my e-ticketing
account. Of course, I mean £27, after the club takes its cut, but I'm
assured this money goes on 'community-based' projects, whether I like it or
not.

What I'm saying is not that, 'I am so clever, dodged a bullet' etc. more
that it was so clear what could have potentially happened that my head told
me to stay away, even if my heart said otherwise.

This really is quite tragic. I have been on the waiting list for a new
season ticket after not renewing when we left the Boleyn. I was excited for
this season, having fought off my demons regarding the new stadium and the
corporate facelessness that seemed to be the direction in which we were
going.

I guessed I was ready to forgive all of that, as performances on the pitch
were what mattered and given our recruitment over the summer, we had a
fighting chance of doing better this season. How wrong I was!

Despite the excitement of some big name summer signings, the same cracks
were there, glaring, from the season before. Carroll and his injury woes are
a running theme, the inability to strengthen at the back since the departure
of James Tomkins, the gap left by Payet going forward.

I mean Mikhail Antonio can only have so much gas in the tank and on Friday
night, it appeared all of his endeavour and spark, had been replaced by
frustration and malcontent.

Like a battered partner, hurt and upset after the Swansea performance, I
knew I had to think carefully about how to move forward. I was wary and kept
my distance against Brighton but knew that the disappointment of such a
humiliating result will force action, will make the change. Sadly, I was
wrong.

It is clear to most, probably to Slav himself, that the game is up. It has
since transpired that he said his goodbyes and offered to leave a number of
games ago after the same result at Newcastle.

I mean, what other message do the board need, when their manager throws in
the towel so early on? Is this Slav feeling the heat or is he admitting he
does not know what to do?

We face the same situation as we did this time last year. A manager who for
whatever reason is not getting the job done and leading the team into a
potential struggle, a possible relegation battle, yet the owners deciding to
'give him two more games'.

Personally, I find nothing more insipid and disappointing than this vapid
response. What do they expect? What can anyone gain from this situation?
Let's discuss the options.

Option 1: West Ham United, by some miraculous intervention from a higher
power, get home against a rampant Spurs side and beat Palace away. Bilic
stays and another disappointing season follows.

Option 2: West Ham United beat Spurs somehow and lose to Palace. Although
beating Spurs away is a feeling second to none, we will be deep in the
relegation zone and will most probably be looking at another big team in the
Caribou Cup.

Option 3: West Ham United lose heavily to Spurs and beat Palace. A
mini-reprieve in the league, but how likely are we to get a result at
Selhurst if we are battered by a scarily in form Tottenham?

Option 4: Beaten by both, same position, except the players are more
delusioned, lacking confidence, we are out of a cup and staring down the
barrel in the league.

My fairly laboured point, is that this inertia and fear of change, is almost
certainly going to cost us. No-one wants to sack a manager, I would have
loved it if Slav worked, but it hasn't. He could and in my book should have
gone this time last year and we are quite clearly going backwards now.

I am grateful to the owners for a number of things, but not for this. The
feeling in the camp is too relaxed, there is no real pressure (except for
the fans), there is no urgency among players or staff. We have become a
mini-Arsenal, the fans forced to accept a fate we do not really deserve.


Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll returns for Spurs clash - but Antonio out
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th October 2017
By: Staff Writer

Andy Carroll is set to return to the starting XI when West Ham tackle
Tottenham in the Carabao Cup tomorrow night. The striker has been out of
contention since being dismissed during the 1-1 draw at Burnley, but returns
to spearhead United's attack in the fourth round tie, which is being staged
at Wembley. However wide man Michail Antonio is ruled out after sustaining a
rib injury in the 3-0 defeat at home to Brighton last Friday evening. "We
have Andy back in the squad," confirmed manager Slaven Bilic. "Michail will
definitely be out tomorrow because he had a knock on his ribs in the first
half against Brighton, but managed to play. It's very painful, so he'll be
out. "Then there are James Collins and Diafra Sakho, who start to train with
us for the first time today."

The manager also confirmed that he hopes to make several changes to the team
that were embarrassed by Brighton last weekend - including the
reintroduction of former number one, Adrian, in place of loanee Joe Hart.
"Some of them are new players, I was involved in them coming to the club and
I rate them very highly," Bilic confirmed. It's a big part of my job to
demand them to play better, and to help them to hit the form we want them to
hit. "We all have the same aim and same goal, both tomorrow and for the
season. It's my job to help them and definitely to lead them."

Meanwhile Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has already confirmed that
Tottenham's in-form striker, Harry Kane, is also likely to be rested.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
80 per cent are UNHAPPY in Stratford, say fans
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th October 2017
By: Staff Writer

David Sullivan's claim that 95 per cent of supporters are happy at the
Olympic Stadium couldn't be further from the truth, according to the results
of a new KUMB poll. Sullivan, speaking with Sky Sports on Friday night
insisted that only one in 20 West Ham supporters were disenchanted with the
Stratford stadium - without providing any basis for his assertion. However a
poll of registered KUMB.com members paints a rather different picture - with
an astonishing 80 per cent claiming that rather than being content, they are
distinctly unhappy in Stratford. Indeed, only 12 per cent of voters
registered as being happy with life at the OS - some 83 per cent less than
Sullivan had claimed. The reasons behind the general air of dissatisfaction
are many and varied, although a recurring theme is the suggestion that the
Board may have raised expectations unnecessarily prior to the migration
process - a process hailed by many as a catastrophic failure. "I don't mind
the stadium and have always said I like my seat and view," wrote KUMB Forum
stalwart Kialos. " I go to from Stratford via Carpenters Estate so avoid the
Westfield area and stop/go signs. "However what annoys me is seeing how the
Board negotiated the whole thing, based solely on spending as little as
possible rather than doing what needed doing. Signing away any kind of say
in matters that any club with regard to fans or even the team would sign
over is unforgivable."

Thoughts echoed by Big George, who added: "The club sold us a fake vision.
The executive team failed to do even the most basic of work to prepare the
stadium, then shifted blame for the horrendous problems. They were so
blinded by the cash, they ignored their customers."

And ChikinRub added: "I bought the 'founder' season ticket at the new
stadium with an open mind but, I have to say, people who expressed concerns
have been proved right. I've given it a go, but it's not us.

"To say it never will be is wrong, because I think this massive compromise
of a football stadium will be 'us', the new us. I strongly believe that most
of what - if not all - we loved about our wonderfully charismatic, unique
club is quickly being destroyed. The stadium is a big part of that
destruction; it's ironic, really."

Equally concerning - if not more so - would appear to be the number of long
term supporters who either have, or intend to refrain from renewing their
season ticket/s as a result of the many issues surrounding the stadium. "I
can't stand the place so I haven't been this season," said Pop Robson.
"After missing only two home league games over 15 seasons, I've missed all
four home games this season."

Meanwhile BrownFatwa and RichieRiv find themselves in a similar position. "I
didn't renew this year after over 40 years full commitment," commented the
former. "I hate the place and actually was mildly in favour of the move.
It's simply not a fit place to watch football." Whilst the latter added:
"This is my 17th year - and I am seriously doubting whether I'll reach 18."

Hundreds of KUMB readers have joined the above in commented on the poll,
offering a series of reasons why they are either content or disappointed at
Stratford. You may read those on the KUMB Forum.

Poll Standings (as of Tuesday, 24 October)
Question: Are you "happy with the move" to Stratford?
Yes: 12%
No: 80%
Unsure: 8%

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho: I still want out
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th October 2017
By: Staff Writer

Diafra Sakho has confirmed that he still wants to leave West Ham - despite
having spent "three wonderful years" at the club. And the former Metz man
insists that West Ham gave him permission to travel to France on transfer
deadline day in order to undergo a medical with Rennes - despite the club
having suggested otherwise. "I still want to leave," he told journalist
Claude Atcheba. "I don't hide it. Fans or not, I want a change of
environment. I want to see something else.
"I've spent three wonderful years at West Ham but I want to see other things
and I think that going to France would be a good challenge. One day in the
furthre perhaps I'd like to come back, but right now I want a change of
scenery."
The Senegal international also hit back at claims that he had flown to
France in August without permission from West Ham. "I just went to do the
medical, see the club and other people," he said. "I think both clubs agreed
that I went for the medical, but maybe there wasn't enough time for West Ham
to let me go as they were unable to find a replacement. "I understood the
situation and came back - but that didn't change my desire to leave. I'm
happy to be here today, but nothing has changed. I have nothing against the
fans, players or manager but nobody has convinved me to stay."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic admits he is under pressure to save West Ham job ahead of
Tottenham clash
By Matthew Treadwell
Last Updated: 24/10/17 7:37pm
SSN

West Ham boss Slaven Bilic admits he is under pressure to save his job ahead
of a crucial Carabao Cup clash against London rivals Tottenham at Wembley.
Sky sources reported earlier this week that the Croatian has two games to
keep his position as manager after the team's poor start to the season - the
game with Spurs and the Premier League fixture with Crystal Palace next
weekend. Bilic was under pressure last season but kept his job, yet the
Hammers are 16th in the Premier League and only out of the relegation zone
on goal difference after eight games.
Slaven Bilic is not worried about reports claiming he has two games to save
his job as West Ham manager. But he said: "We have to stay focused, I have
to lead the team and the group and I need to get us playing better
immediately. "I have a game tomorrow and that is all I am focused on. All I
can do is stay focused on my next game or training session because that is
the only way you can expect to turn things around. "There are always three,
four, five managers in those positions [under pressure] and I am definitely
one of them. "Does it make me lose my focus? No. I never gave up in my
career or in any part of my life, as a player, as a parent, as a friend, as
a manager. It's my biggest strength, to be strong in hard times. "Now I am
facing my hard time but it doesn't scare me."
Bilic says he still believes in his players, many of whom he brought to the
club, despite a run of just one league win in their last five attempts. "I
will never lose the faith in the players, they are my players, they are my
team," he added. "With the newer players I was involved in their coming to
the club and of course I rate them very highly. I must demand they play
better but it is also a big part of my job to help them play better."
As for what victory at Tottenham would mean to him, Bilic said: "A couple of
calm days, at least in the press conferences! It would be good of course [to
win and progress] but it is a different competition. "A win against Spurs
may not improve your league position, but, of course, to go through in the
cup would give us back some confidence that we built over the last four or
five weeks but damaged in the game against Brighton."

Watch Tottenham v West Ham in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. Coverage begins
on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football at 7:30pm.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham v West Ham preview: Spurs face London rivals live on Sky Sports
Football
By Patrick Surlis
Last Updated: 24/10/17 7:35pm
SSN

Tottenham midfielder Mousa Dembele has returned to training ahead of their
Carabao Cup fourth-round clash with West Ham on Wednesday, live on Sky
Sports Football. The Spurs man, who has been struggling with a hip problem,
has not featured since the club's 1-0 success over Barnsley in the previous
round on September 19, a run of six games. Tottenham have won five of them,
drawing the other 1-1 against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in the Champions
League.
That good form has left them top of Group H in Europe and five points behind
pace-setters Manchester City in the Premier League, with Mauricio Pochettino
likely to make changes for the resumption of the Carabao Cup. He told his
pre-match press conference: "It is important to keep momentum. If we rotate,
we have to show that everyone can help and be a very important part of the
team." Brighton piled more pressure on West Ham boss Slaven Bilic with a 3-0
win at the London Stadium in the Hammers' previous fixture. They sit 16th in
the Premier League table and Michail Antonio admits they will be looking for
revenge over Tottenham after a 3-2 defeat in east London in September. "It's
a massive game. Even if it wasn't at Wembley it would be a massive game,"
Antonio told the club's website.
"Any game between West Ham and Tottenham is massive, especially after they
beat us at home, we need to go there and beat them at their home. "We've got
to steady our minds, go there and perform for the fans."

Team news

Tottenham midfielder Dembele is back in training following a hip injury and
could feature on Wednesday, while Victor Wanyama is continuing his
rehabilitation from a knee problem. Danny Rose could start as he steps up
his return but Erik Lamela remains unavailable with a long-term hip
complaint.
Bilic has confirmed Adrian will start in goal for West Ham but Antonio
misses out due to a rib injury suffered against Brighton. There's better
news on Andy Carroll, who returns from his one-match suspension, while James
Collins and Diafra Sakho are back in training as they build-up their
fitness.

Match stats

Tottenham's last three home games against West Ham at home have seen 14
goals (avg 4.7 per game), although this will be their first ever meeting at
Wembley.
This will be the ninth meeting across seven ties between these two sides in
the League Cup, with the Hammers winning the last encounter back in December
2013 - a 2-1 quarter-final victory at White Hart Lane.
West Ham are looking to reach the quarter-final stage in consecutive
campaigns for the first time since 1980-81, the same season they beat
Tottenham en route to a final defeat by Liverpool.
West Ham are returning to Wembley for the first time since May 2012 when
they beat Blackpool 2-1 in the Championship play-off final - their previous
appearance was a League Cup final against Liverpool in 1981.

Charlie predicts

This could be a feisty one - but I only see one outcome. Mauricio Pochettino
impressively exposed Liverpool's vulnerabilities on Sunday and their
confidence must be sky high. This is a good chance to sit Harry Kane, who
will hopefully need to rest his hamstring until after the Arsenal game!
Fernando Llorente will come in again and Dele Alli will get another game
after missing quite a few, meaning Spurs still have plenty of attacking
quality. What does Slaven Billic do? If he plays a strong team, they could
still be embarrassed. I'm a fan of Bilic but this is a really average group
of players. He's partly responsible but I don't think you should judge him
on a match like this.

Charlie predicts: 3-0 and Dele Alli to score first (28/1 with Sky Bet)

Betting

Tottenham are Sky Bet's 1/2 favourites to progress within 90 minutes as West
Ham go up against odds of 11/2 to win and 18/5 to take the tie to
extra-time.
Subject to selection, Kane is the 2/1 favourite to score first followed by
Fernando Llorente at 5/2, while Heung-min Son is enhanced from 9/2 to 11/2
in Sky Bet's Price Boosts. Spurs are the 13/2 fourth favourites to lift the
trophy with the Hammers priced at 40/1.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
PALACE GAME BIGGER THAN SPURS?
By Tony Hanna 24 Oct 2017 at 08:00
WTID

If it is true that Slaven Bilic has been given two games to save his job
like many of the media outlets are reporting, I find it difficult to believe
that the Spurs game will have much bearing on the decision. Put it this way.
If it is true and we beat Spurs and lose to Palace I just don't see him
remaining in his job. If we lose to Spurs and beat Palace things may well be
different, at least for the time being. Crystal Palace is the big one for
Bilic despite many fans actually preferring a win against Tottenham if given
the choice? Spurs will likely play an under strength team against us after
playing Liverpool on Sunday and matches away to the Moaning ones on the
weekend and home to Real Madrid a few days later. I doubt the League Cup, or
whatever it is called this season, is a high priority for Pochettino's team
this season. So, with a crucial game against Palace this weekend it will be
interesting to see what team we field at Wembley on Wednesday? My best guess
is that we will keep much of our powder dry concentrating on the League
game.

It is interesting to see how matches against Spurs have become the most
anticipated in West Ham fans calendars? I must admit I have followed the
droves and these fixtures have become the highlight of my season too,
providing we get a result of course. But from my memory it was not like that
when I first started going to matches back in the 1960's. I was only very
young then and perhaps ill informed, but if my memory serves me correct our
games against Manchester United were always the "big ones"? All London
derbies had an extra edge to them back then but the Spurs fixture has
certainly well and truly overtaken all of them, apart from one certain team
who we hardly ever play anyway!

My stat machine tells me we have played Spurs on 207 occasions and they have
won 94 and we have won 62 with 51 drawn encounters. However, in the past ten
fixtures we have won five with one draw and four Spurs wins. This improved
run of results started with the famous 3-0 win at White Hart Lane in October
2013 where Sam, after a start to the season not unlike what is happening
now, pulled a rabbit out of the hat and played a 4/6/0 formation with Ravel
Morrison scoring a goal to remember. Many of the games played in recent
history have been memorable for one thing or another. David Cross scoring
four goals, Lasagne-gate right through to last season's 1-0 win with an
under strength team that killed off any chance Spurs may have had of winning
the Premier League.

Spurs have always seemed to have the upper hand in the transfer market over
us and player transactions between the two clubs are now rare. Over the past
13 years there has only been two transfers with Calum Davenport being our
only signing in 2007 and Scott Parker going the other way six years ago. The
Martin Peters transfer was probably the worst deal West Ham ever made with
Tottenham, simply made unpalatable by our gullibility in taking a player
exchange with Jimmy Greaves as part of the transaction. Receiving 3.5m quid
for Michael Carrick is also a pants down for the club and more recently the
sale of Scott Parker also left a bitter taste. That was the last player
transfer between the two clubs.

By the time I write my next column Slav's tenure might be up? On the bookies
markets there was a lot of money for Koeman to be the next manager to leave
his position. He was backed into 1-4 (80%) in a matter of hours on Sunday
evening. I wrote this in my original draft but before the ink was dry so to
speak, the deed was done! Bilic has now been left as the new 8/11 (58%)
favourite and would be much shorter odds but for the wave of money that is
coming for Sean Dyche. That is on the back of him being heavily backed for
the Everton job. The fact that there are 28 managers at 33/1 or under to be
the next West Ham manager is a clear indication that finding any potential
new man will be difficult – there are really no leads in the market to
suggest the owners have any specific targets lined up. For those who are
predicting relegation the price of 7/2 (22%) is a fantastic opportunity for
you to put your money where your mouth is and make a handsome profit. Thirty
five quid profit for a tenner indeed.

To lighten the mood, some may have seen this video but for the benefit of
those who haven't it is well worth a look. The clip centres around young two
year old Henrique and his family who have had tough times but their love for
West Ham is unwavering. A day out at the OS was just what the doctor
ordered.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic must give star Adrian the chance to prove point to West Ham owners
HITC
Dan Coombs

Adrian has a big opportunity for West Ham if selected this week. West Ham
goalkeeper Adrian has a huge opportunity this week if given the nod at
Wembley to face Tottenham Hotspur. Joe Hart was signed on loan in the
summer, but his performances have been indifferent, with the Hammers
conceding the fourth highest number of goals in the Premier League (17).
Spanish stopper Adrian has been a consistent performer for West Ham since
signing from Real Betis in 2013. Adrian hit out in the summer at what he
perceived as disrespect from club owner David Sullivan, who said immediately
that Hart was the best goalkeeper at the Hammers. Adrian has so far had to
rely on Carabao Cup appearances for games, and Slaven Bilic must continue
with this against Tottenham. Bilic may be tempted to give Hart a game as he
is under pressure, but Adrian may be even more motivated than the England
international. A big game from Adrian will prove a big point to the Hammers
hierarchy, and while it may not lead to regular first team selection in the
Premier League this season, the Spaniard will help his case if he can shut
Tottenham out as he did at the en of last season in a memorable 1-0 win.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Marko Arnautovic poor start at West Ham United means he could follow in
Robert Snodgrass' footsteps
HITC
John Verrall

West Ham United winger Marko Arnautovic has been in poor form since signing
from Stoke City. Marko Arnautovic's alarmingly poorly start at West Ham
United has surely already left questions being asked over the Austrian's
future at the London Stadium. West Ham spent big to bring in Arnautovic from
Stoke City during the summer transfer window, but he has been awful to date.
Arnautovic has looked lethargic and offered very little in the way of
creativity whenever he has been picked. The Austrian has seemingly
struggled to fit in with Slaven Bilic's side, with his performances failing
to catch the eye of the Hammers supporters. While it is still early days for
his career at West Ham, Bilic has already shown a ruthless side to his
management. Bilic sold Robert Snodgrass after the Scottish international
spent just six months with the club, after he failed to impress. And unless
Arnuatovic's performance dramatically improve there must be some concern
that his West Ham career heading the same way as Snodgrass's.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho breaks his silence on failed move and is still determined to leave
West Ham
The moody striker has been speaking out again as he tries to force through a
move away
Football London
Sam Inkersole
17:48, 24 OCT 2017

Diafra Sakho is still targeting a January exit from West Ham after failing
to secure a move away from the club on the summer window deadline day. The
Senegal striker has seen the past couple of years of his West Ham career
plagued by injuries to his back and hamstring and when he was fit, found
himself out of favour with Slaven Bilic. He eventually had enough and went
to Rennes for a medical on deadline day, without permission of the club
though that is something Sakho disputes, and passed the medical before the
Hammers told him he wasn't going anywhere. That set of a bonkers chain of
events which saw Sakho end up at Chelmsford racecourse to watch his agents
horse win a race, then to him going to the London Stadium and Rush Green to
find a board member to speak to, but was unsuccessful and the move never
materialised. Now, in an interview with French journalist Claude Atcheba,
the frontman is still yearning for a move as he has still be unable to get a
regular starting spot in the team, settling for the odd cameo off the bench
despite scoring two goals in three games for club and country earlier this
month. Sakho said: "I still want to leave. I don't hide it. Fans or not, I
want a change of environment. I want to see something else. "I've spent
three wonderful years at West Ham but I want to see other things and I think
that going to France would be a good challenge. One day in the future
perhaps I'd like to come back, but right now I want a change of scenery."
Sakho also hit out at the Hammers for his apparent lack of permission to
travel to Rennes on deadline day, disputing their version of events. "I just
went to do the medical, see the club and other people," he said. "I think
both clubs agreed that I went for the medical, but maybe there wasn't enough
time for West Ham to let me go as they were unable to find a replacement. "I
understood the situation and came back - but that didn't change my desire to
leave. I'm happy to be here today, but nothing has changed. I have nothing
against the fans, players or manager but nobody has convinced me to stay."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"They are not letting me down": Slaven Bilic stands by West Ham summer
signings despite Brighton shocker
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport

Slaven Bilic has refused to blame his summer signings after their poor
showing against Brighton on Friday night. The four headline additions over
the summer (Javier Hernandez, Pablo Zabaleta, Marko Arnautovic and Joe Hart)
have had stuttering starts to their careers in east London. During Friday's
3-0 defeat to Chris Hughton's side, Arnautovic was largely ineffective and
looked disinterested before being brought off in the second half, while Hart
was arguably at fault for Jose Izquierdo's goal. However, Bilic has stuck by
his additions ahead of their League Cup clash with Tottenham on Wednesday.
"They are not letting me down," Bilic insisted. "I spoke to him [Arnautovic]
already and he wants, he tries, it just at the moment - not only for him -
we are all in the same boat and we all have to do better. "Marko is a great
talent, has proved it before, he wanted to come here. "It has been
disrupted with the red card, then the flu, international break but I am very
positive and sure that sooner or later he will be really important."

While the Croatian has backed the former Stoke man to win the Hammers fans
over, he revealed that Hart will not be starting at Wembley. "Tomorrow is
going to be Adrian, because he is a cup keeper," he added. "I do not want
to pin point the players, not in front of the media and that, after we had a
bad spell in the first three games when we conceded ten goals, we hit good
form with clean sheets and against Brighton we made a few mistakes and
shipped three goals. "But it's not because of that Adrian will be in goal,
it was a plan from the beginning of the season and Adrian did well in his
games. He will be in goal tomorrow."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic plans wholesale changes against Tottenham with
one eye on Crystal Palace
KEN DYER
ES Sport

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is set to make wholesale changes for
Wednesday's Carabao Cup tie against Tottenham at Wembley as the club
prioritise the weekend's crucial Premier League game against Crystal Palace.
Hammers co-owner David Sullivan discussed his club's precarious League
position with Bilic on Monday — but the manager will remain in charge
against Spurs and at Palace three days later. There was speculation that
Sullivan and the West Ham board had arranged to meet following Friday
night's 3-0 home defeat by Brighton, but it is understood no such meeting
took place. However, Sullivan, co-chairman David Gold and vice-chairman
Karren Brady are sufficiently concerned to be exploring possible
replacements for Bilic. Speculation that Bilic offered his resignation after
the Brighton defeat have been discounted by the club, but it is understood
the Croatian — who is in the final season of a three-year deal — was
dismayed by the performance of his players not only on Friday but also
following a similarly dysfunctional performance at Newcastle in August. Talk
of dressing-room disharmony has also been rejected. The players, it is
understood, still largely like and respect Bilic, despite the team's poor
form, but the board remain acutely concerned about the lack of direction and
improvement displayed by the squad this season. The board are anxious not to
make knee-jerk decisions and remain keen to keep faith with Bilic, until the
end of the season, at least. They will know, though, that performances such
as the one against Brighton cannot be repeated without them taking action.

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"I have to get us playing better immediately," West Ham manager Slaven Bilic
calls for instant improvement against Tottenham
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport

Slaven Bilic has admitted he must get his West Ham side playing better
'immediately' ahead of their EFL Cup clash with Tottenham on Wednesday. The
Hammers boss has come under intense pressure after their 3-0 defeat to
Brighton at London Stadium on Friday night. The Croatian has been under no
illusions as to his position, while Standard Sport understands the two
London derbies against Spurs and then Crystal Palace in the Premier League
could decide his future. With a quick turnaround before their clash with a
Spurs side who have drawn at the Bernabeu and beaten Liverpool 4-1 in the
last week, Bilic knows improvement must come quickly, however, also says it
presents a good opportunity. "I have to get us playing better immediately,"
Bilic told reporters. "It is a chance for us. It is not coming a couple of
weeks time or three weeks, it is tomorrow night "In this situation it is a
really good thing. We have to lift ourselves, we have trained and as I said,
we have to play better. Friday was very disappointing although every Premier
League game is difficult."

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Mark Noble leads crisis meeting at West Ham training ground
KEN DYER
ES Sport

Captain Mark Noble was the main voice as the West Ham players met on Monday
to discuss the club's crisis. Noble led the meeting at the Rush Green
training ground as the squad shared ideas on how to improve with West Ham
16th in the table, a point ahead of second-from-bottom Bournemouth,
following their poor performance in the 3-0 defeat by Brighton on Friday. It
is understood that Noble, who has been at West Ham since the age of 15, was
frank and forthright in the meeting which lasted just 10 minutes. The
midfielder missed the last game but is expected to return for Wednesday's
Carabao Cup tie against Tottenham. He is set to be one of a number of
changes made by Slaven Bilic, who will rest players with the crunch League
match at Crystal Palace on Saturday in mind. Should West Ham lose at
Selhurst Park, with a performance similar to the one against Brighton,
co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold could be forced into taking action.

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