Daily WHUFC News II - 28th October 2017

Slaven Bilic column: I am expecting a big performance today
WHUFC.com

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic is expecting a big performance at
Crystal Palace today after a confidence-boosting comeback victory over
Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley on Wednesday evening...

Hello everyone,

We have certainly seen the contrasting emotions that football can bring over
the course of the past seven days. There is no denying that our defeat
against Brighton at London Stadium was a painful experience, and there was
not much I could say after the game to make things seem better. But in this
game there is simply nothing to be achieved from dwelling on negatives or
feeling sorry for yourself, and our victory on Wednesday at Wembley was a
reward for the character and belief that the players showed. It is not the
first time we have come from 2-0 down to win - it happened in my first
season as manager up at Everton. And I have to say that there were
similarities between the two games, in that even when we were 2-0 down, I
saw signs that convinced me that we were still in the game. We had enough of
the ball and dealt with the opposition well enough to be in a position to
turn it around. Of course, goals change games, and the main thing on
Wednesday is that we took our chances when we got them, but it wasn't a
complete shock to me that we managed to produce a fightback. I was also
happy with what I saw in the dressing room following the game. After a
victory like that, it is important to let the players enjoy the moment and
share the celebration together - that is how a team builds a special bond.
But there was a determination and focus among them, that we all want to
carry into this afternoon's game at Selhurst Park.

Crystal Palace, like us, haven't had the start to the season they would have
hoped for. They are a club who have already made some big changes this
season, and they are desperate for a positive run. We go into the game on
the back of very different results - us beating Tottenham in the way we did,
and them losing 4-1 to Bristol City. They are a wounded animal, as we were
after last Friday's game. For that reason, we have to be completely focused
and make sure that we start the game in the same way we finished off on
Wednesday. But that doesn't mean it automatically happen, and it isn't just
a case of putting out the same players who came from behind against Spurs.
My job is to pick the team that I believe has the best chance of beating
Crystal Palace, based on how we expect them to set up and which of our
players we believe are best suited to the type of encounter we are likely to
face. Of course, confidence and form is a big part of that selection
process, and there are some players who came into the team on Wednesday and
performed well enough, in the second half particularly, to deserve to be
considered for today's game. But, as a manager, that is what you hope for.
That you get to a position where players who haven't been in the team
regularly take their chance when given an opportunity and give you a
selection headache for the next game. I don't ever take anything for
granted, but I am hoping and expecting a big performance today. We go into
the match fresh from the positive experience of Wednesday and having beaten
Crystal Palace twice last season.
Manu Lanzini scored in both those victories, and he is a big player for us.
Wednesday was an important game for him - he is now reaching the physical
levels he needs to be at his best, and that is a very promising sign. I know
that the majority of our fans at Selhurst Park today will have been at
Wembley on Wednesday, and I hope we can all share and feel that momentum
once the game kicks off today. It is another London derby, another huge
game, and we are all determined to repeat that feeling we had walking back
into the dressing-room at Wembley after the final whistle in midweek.

Come on you Irons!

Slaven

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Joe Hart welcomes competition from 'top goalkeeper' Adrian
WHUFC.com

Joe Hart says West Ham United can only benefit from players competing for
places - including his own! England's No1 was among those impressed by the
Hammers' sensational comeback from two goals down to defeat Tottenham
Hotspur 3-2 at Wembley in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening. West Ham's
win was made possible, in part, by the performance of Adrian in goal and,
rather than be worried about how it may impact on his own position, Hart
welcomed the Spaniard's impressive display. ''It's good," said Hart, who has
started all nine Premier League games so far this season, while Adrian has
played in all three Carabao Cup ties. For the No25, competition for his
place is nothing new, with the likes of Andreas Isaksson, Shay Given, Costel
Pantilimon and Willy Caballero all challenging Hart for his place at
Manchester City.
At international level, he has consistently held off the challenge of a
succession of challengers for his starting spot, including Jack Butland,
John Ruddy, Fraser Forster, Tom Heaton and Jordan Pickford. "I have been a
part of strong goalkeeping line ups everywhere I have gone. This is no
different. Adrian is a top goalkeeper and capable of big performances like
he proved on Wednesday night. "I enjoy working with him every day and we
leave it up to the manager to work out what's going on and we will try and
give our best for the team.''

Indeed, Hart believes West Ham have two players battling for every position
in Slaven Bilic's side, particularly in the light of the performance put in
by a much-changed team at Wembley in midweek. Bilic's selection for
Saturday's Premier League fixture at Crystal Palace is eagerly-awaited, with
the likes of Mark Noble, Aaron Cresswell, Angelo Ogbonna and Andre Ayew all
pushing for starts after being left out for the 3-0 Premier League defeat by
Brighton & Hove Albion last Friday. "When everyone is fit at our Club, we
have a good enough squad to make it difficult for the manager. There's
strength in depth in every position so that's why he gets paid his money and
he will pick the best team to win.''

Saturday's game will see Hart come up against a manager he knows well in Roy
Hodgson, the man who picked him 46 times for his country, took him to three
major tournaments and named him England captain for the first time in Spain
in November 2015. The Hammers stopper believes the 70-year-old has the
experience and knowhow to get Palace out of their current predicament,
pointing to last weekend's 2-1 win over champions Chelsea as proof. "It's
been a tough time for them but I'm sure they are trying to address that in
house and they have the same kind of hunger and desire as us - it's who
shows the quality on the day. "You can't beat Chelsea with one man. They'd
have beaten Chelsea with all their players playing out of their skin. It
helps having players like him. They have quality throughout their team. I
don't think there's any team in the Premier League that doesn't possess at
least three standout players and the rest are very, very good. "Roy has got
lots of experience and can help. He's managed at international level to a
high level and up to the levels of Liverpool in the Premier League, so he's
knows what it takes to manage an important team and I am sure he will be
drilling his players for a massive game."

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CRYSTAL PALACE MATCH PREVIEW
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 27 OCTOBER 2017 AT 9:38PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @deportivohammer

Well, I can honestly say that I did not see that result coming. I checked
the score as I left work and saw that we were 2-0 down and my heart sank, I
took a slow walk back to my car for the 15 min journey home. Whilst arriving
home I checked again to find we had got 2 goals back. I quickly turned on
the computer in time to see Ogbonna glance his header into the Spurs net. I
decided to wake up my boys so they could witness another great West Ham
moment.Lets hope its not the only one this year.

Which leads me onto Crystal Palace bottom of the league with just the one
win this year coming against an unlikely opponent in Chelsea. But I think
its safe to say that they have been awful this year. Roy Hodgson has come in
to replace Frank De Boer and managed to get the team to find the net, which
was more than his predecessor did. Although losing heavily midweek against a
Championship side Bristol City can not be the best preperation for what is
looking very much like a relegation scrap.

West Ham on the other hand, obviously had a great result against rivals
Tottenham midweek but we can not forget how bad our previous league game
was. Losing 0-3 at home to anyone is embarrassing but to Brighton. The
players should be ashamed of their performance. Which is why I was so
surprised Wednesday evening. Form has not really been great for West Ham we
seem to be incapable of getting some consistency in our performances. This l
feel needs to be addressed and maybe we need to stop playing players on
reputation.

James McArthur is facing a late fitness test and Chung-Yong is a doubt for
the game One time West Ham transfer targets Benteke and Wickham are both out

West Ham have a better fitness report, with the only absentee from the squad
being defender James Collins. Sakho has decided he wants to turn up again.
But Mikhail Antonio will have a late test on a bruised rib.

Predicted Line ups :

Crystal Palace: Speroni, Ward, Dann, Sakho, Van Arnholdt, Cabaye,
Milivojevic, McArthur, Schlupp, Townsend, Zaha.

West Ham United : Hart, Cresswell, Zabaleta, Fonte, Reid, Ogbonna, Noble,
Kouyate, Lanzini, Ayew, Hernandez.

Difficult one to try and predict this week with many fringe players putting
in a good shift midweek it will be interesting to see if he continues to
play around with the players and the formation. We know from Ex that Byram,
Rice, Holland, Martinez and Sakho will not be involved though. I have gone
for 3 at the back again as it seems to be our most solid formation
defensively. This is not something I would agree with. I would go out to
attack Palace and get an early goal and hopefully they would lose
confidence. But Slav knows his job is on the line and can not afford anymore
slip ups like Brighton. I think we will win again tomorrow but make hard
work of it as usual. 2-1 to the Hammers with goals coming from Lanzini and
Hernandez

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WHAT ARE THE ODDS? CRYSTAL PALACE AWAY
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 27 OCTOBER 2017 AT 9:50PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Martin Backhouse @martinbackhouse

Who else is still buzzing after Wednesday night?! What a second half that
was. However, that's done now and the main focus is back on the league; it's
Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday.

Betway have us priced up at a generous 9/4 to win it, with the draw at
23/10. We've beaten Palace the last three times we've visited their neck of
the woods, and we are actually unbeaten in the Premier League against them
under Slaven Bilic (W3 D1 L0). Crystal Palace have also won only seven of
their 23 Premier League home games since the start of 2016-17 (W7 D2 L14),
which is another reason why I think we're such good value this weekend.

Crystal Palace have lost 12 of their last 14 Premier League games to nil.
Over 2017, 17 of their 29 Premier League games have seen them lose without
scoring. With this in mind, it might be worth having a few pennies on the
1-0 and 2-0 scorelines, which are available with our sponsors at 8/1 and
12/1 respectively. That stat coupled with the fact that they have scored
just two goals in their nine Premier League games so far this season, makes
the prices on those correct scores very tempting.



Manuel Lanzini has scored in all four of his Premier League games against
Palace (four goals). He has netted more league goals vs the Eagles than any
other West Ham player. In fact, nine of Manuel Lanzini's 14 Premier League
goals have come in London derby matches (64%). If you fancy him to score
again on Saturday you can enjoy 15/2 on him to bag the opener, and he's 11/4
to score anytime. Will it be Andy Carroll or Chicharito up top? Or both? If
you think either of the two will net this weekend, they're available at 9/2
and 4/1 to score first respectively, with both priced at 21/10 to score
anytime.

There's just one #betyourway market available as I type this. West Ham to
win, under 3.5 goals, Hernandez to score and Milivojeciv to be booked is
priced up at 25/1! Be sure to have a check prior to kick off as I'm sure
there will be plenty more to choose from!

What will I bet on? I'm lumping on a West Ham win at 9/4, with a few pennies
on a 1-0 and 2-0 win. We've also beaten Palace 3-1 at their place a couple
of times recently, so I'll be backing that too at 22/1! Good luck with your
bets. COYI

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Joe Hart says West Ham's trip to Crystal Palace is biggest game of the
season
Last Updated: 27/10/17 4:39pm
SSN

Joe Hart says West Ham's trip to Crystal Palace on Saturday is "humongous",
and their biggest match of the season. The Hammers currently sit 16th in the
Premier League, above the drop zone only on goal difference, while Roy
Hodgson's struggling Crystal Palace are bottom with three points from nine
games. A win for Palace could change the complexion of the bottom end of the
table, and goalkeeper Hart says the clash at Selhurst Park is their cup
final. Hart told Soccer Saturday: "We've had wins, big wins, and not
followed them up. Saturday is a humongous game, no matter what had happened
at Wembley, Saturday is a huge game. We want to bring that second half form
into Saturday. "We're approaching it as the biggest game of the season.
Crystal Palace are our cup final right now. We need to get some points on
the board, and we need to get the group of fans behind us, who are
struggling at the moment, and I understand why.
"That's the most important thing. Palace are probably having the same
meetings, discussions as we are, they have the same feelings about the game
as us. It's a huge, important game, and we need to be right. "We want to be
in games, in charge of games, and don't want to have to react, but we did
what we had to do. But that was one of however many games we've had this
season, and one of the highlights, but there has been a lot that hasn't been
good enough."
Fresh from a dramatic comeback at Wembley, where West Ham came from 2-0 down
to beat Spurs 3-2 in the Carabao Cup fourth round, Hart added that the win
is only a good result if they take it into their next game. "It's only a
good result if we can build on it," Hart said. "We have [done ourselves
justice] in short bursts. We've not had any games where we've been blown
away by anyone, but we've had 20 good minutes, then five minutes off, and
you can't afford that in this league. "You can't afford to not concentrate.
It's not a question of not giving 100 per cent - I genuinely believe we have
a squad of players who want to give their all - but the channelling a
direction of our intensity needs to be at the right times."
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic has come under pressure in recent weeks after some
poor performances, but Hart says he and his team-mates are invested in what
the Croatian is trying to do. "I don't think we have to prove that we're
playing for the manager, we turn up for training every day for him; he tells
us what to do and we do it. "Speculation will always be rife in football,
and that's people's jobs: to talk, create the atmosphere outside [of the
club]. But we stay strong inside, train hard, ask a lot of each other, and
we're going to have to keep doing that. "We ask a lot of the manager,
hopefully he's going to ask a lot from us, and when we come together, we've
seen what we can do, so there's no excuse for us not to do it."
Hart is currently at West Ham on loan from Manchester City, having lost his
place as No 1 at the Etihad Stadium once Pep Guardiola arrived last summer.
The 30-year-old's England place is also under threat from Jack Butland and
Jordan Pickford, but Hart insists that despite a rollercoaster two years, he
has nothing to prove to his critics outside of the game. "I've still got
plenty of time, plenty of football left in me, so I want to make the most
out of my [time at West Ham]. It's not changed my hunger and desire for
football. "I need to keep Slaven Bilic happy, I need to keep playing well
for Gareth Southgate, my team-mates, other than that I've got nothing to
prove to anyone. Simple as that."

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West Ham "senators" have boss Slaven Bilic's vote to steer his strugglers
away from relegation trouble
Fifth-bottom Hammers counting on the leadership of senior pros who have won
major trophies and captained their countries
The Mirror
Neil McLeman
22:30, 27 OCT 2017UPDATED23:25, 27 OCT 2017

Slaven Bilic has backed his West Ham "senators" to lead the club clear of
the drop zone and repay his faith in them. The Hammers eased the -pressure
on their beleaguered boss in midweek with a stunning League Cup fightback
against Tottenham, led by the recalled Mark Noble. But the heat will be back
on if they lose another -Premier League derby, away to bottom club Crystal
Palace on Saturday. With Michail Antonio fit again, Bilic has -selections
problems having made nine changes against Spurs from the team humbled by
Brighton a week ago. But he will rely on his battle-hardened core of senior
pros at Selhurst Park. "Mental strength is most -important thing," he said.
"That's why you need leaders, those kind of senators in your team. We've
enough of them, a few captains of national teams. "We've people who won
major trophies with their national teams or with -previous clubs. We've a
good mixture of them and young -players who will hopefully achieve what
their colleagues achieved. "That mental strength is key today, especially in
the Premier League when you have a -feeling it's like big brother, you are
there 24/7, on the radar, every move being analysed."
Bilic has been careful to avoid public criticism of his men, even after the
3-0 home defeat to Brighton. "You have your principles and have to make them
believe in you," he said. "And if you stay behind them in the bad times,
then they feel trust." Noble was dropped for the previous two league games
but his spat with Tottenham's Danny Rose at the start of the second half was
the catalyst for the League Cup comeback. Bilic said: "Was it a coincidence
or was it more important than the first goal? Nobody knows. Maybe it helped.
"Mark Noble has that in him. He's the captain who loves to be the captain.
He is Mr West Ham, has been all his life, and he is first for that." Bilic
did not play down the significance of today's visit to Selhurst park. "I
know our situation," he said. "Our situation -determines my situation. It's
a massively important game."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 28th October 2017

Crystal Palace v West Ham United: All you need to know
WHUFC.com

West Ham United return to Premier League action on Saturday as the Irons
travel to south London to take on Crystal Palace.

Read on for all the information you need to know ahead of this fixture,
including team news, travel information and recent history...

Where and when?

West Ham United will meet Crystal Palace on Saturday 28 October at Selhurst
Park, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.

How to follow:

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

Unfortunately, due to being a Saturday 3pm kick-off the match is not
available for viewing in the UK. For worldwide broadcast schedules, click
here.

Team news:

Slaven Bilic will offer updates on his squad and team ahead of Saturday's
Premier League match with Crystal Palace during his pre-game press
conference on Friday afternoon.

The press conference is due to begin at 12pm.

Match officials:

Referee: Bobby Madley
Assistant Referees: Marc Perry and Adrian Holmes
Fourth Official: James Linington

Meet the opposition:

Not many clubs in England have endured a more difficult start to the season
than Crystal Palace. The Eagles have already changed their manager this
campaign and now have former England boss Roy Hodgson at the helm.

Just one win in the league this campaign sees Palace rooted to the bottom of
the Premier League table. That victory however came in their last home match
against reigning champions Chelsea, which shows that on their day the Eagles
can soar.

Player to watch:

Two goals in Wednesday's 3-2 comeback victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the
Carabao Cup has pushed Andre Ayew to the front of the West Ham United
collect mind.

The versatile forward now has four goals in all competitions this season and
will be eager to continue that form against Palace on Saturday.

Head-to-head:

Last season West Ham completed the double over Crystal Palace in the Premier
League. A Manuel Lanzini goal was the difference in the fixture at Selhurst
Park while the Argentinian was also on the score-sheet in the match at
London Stadium, a game now fixed in the memory thanks to Andy Carroll's
wonderful bicycle kick.

The last time the Hammers lost to Palace was in February 2015 but the Irons
have won their last three away contests against the Eagles.

Last five meetings:

West Ham United 3-0 Crystal Palace, Premier League, January 14 2017
Crystal Palace 0-1 West Ham United, Premier League, October 15 2016
West Ham United 2-2 Crystal Palace, Premier League, April 2 2016
Crystal Palace 1-3 West Ham United, Premier League, October 17 2015
West Ham United 1-3 Crystal Palace, Premier League, February 28 2015

How to get there:

By rail

The nearest stations are Selhurst, Thornton Heath or Norwood Junction. All
of these are served by London Victoria main line station. Both Thornton
Heath and Norwood Junction are also served by trains from London Bridge.

By car

Leave the M25 at Junction 7 and follow the signs for the A23 to Croydon,
then go left onto the A23 at its junction with the A235. You will pass
roundabouts and junctions with the A232 and A236 as you pass Croydon, after
which the A23 bears left.

Follow the road, and turn right onto the high street. Go left onto
Whitehorse Lane and Selhurst Park is on your right.

Postcode: SE25 6PU

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Adrian: I've given the boss a selection headache
WHUFC.com

Adrian is hopeful his performance against Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao
Cup on Wednesday will have left his manager with a selection headache before
tomorrow's clash with Crystal Palace. The Hammers staged a phenomenal
comeback against London rivals Spurs, scoring three times in 15 minutes
after being 2-0 down at half-time, to win the game 3-2. The goalkeeper
played an important role in the win, having made crucial saves from Dele
Alli and Moussa Sissoko either side of the break as West Ham progressed to
the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup for the second year in a row. The
Spaniard saw the match as an opportunity to stake his claim in the first
team and believes Wednesday's performance is evidence of his commitment to
the team and the level he wishes to play at. He told whufc.com: "It was a
good moment to vindicate my position in the team and for the manager. "I
enjoyed making these crucial saves [against Alli and Sissoko], helping the
team whenever I can to get that good result. We won the game and I'm so
happy. "Now I've given the boss a headache to choose which keeper to play.
Like I showed on Wednesday, I can do it. I am ready to play week-in,
week-out."

While opportunities have been few and far between for the No13, the three
games that Adrian has played this campaign have all been victories, yet none
have come in the league. The game against Tottenham was one of those three
wins and the 30-year-old shed light on how the team's dressing room talk at
half-time inspired the Hammers stage a stunning comeback. "The first half
was very hard for us and also very hard for the fans because they went there
to support us and we started losing. "2-0 down in the first half was hard.
But in the second half we spoke about giving our all in the dressing room,
to do the maximum level in 45 minutes and see if we can snatch a win. We won
and it was such a great night for us and all the Hammer fans." He added: "I
need to do my best when the opportunity arises for me to play. In the moment
it's cup football so I try to show the boss the level that I am at, giving
consistently 100%."

Adrian believes the win over Tottenham has given the team with much-needed
belief ahead of their match against local rivals Crystal Palace on Saturday.
"It's a great motivation for us because the last game at home was very bad
and we understood that. "After the victory on Wednesday, everyone is in a
positive way because we've come back with a hard fought victory against a
top side. "The win has given us a platform to feed off, go to Palace on
Saturday and get a good result. It's time we climbed up the table."

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Bilic: Balance, belief and a love of big matches
WHUFC.com

Slaven Bilic met with the media on Friday afternoon to provide insight and
analysis ahead of West Ham United's Premier League match with Crystal
Palace. The manager was asked about the squad's mood after Wednesday's win
over Tottenham, the Eagle's recent form, and media speculation. 'I like big
games'
West Ham's opponents, Palace, head into Saturday's match on the back of a
tough run of form – one that has seen them win just once this season in the
league and lose their last match in the Carabao Cup to lower league
opposition. With this in mind Bilic was questioned whether he was pleased to
be playing the Eagles at this point in their season, just a few weeks after
Roy Hodgson was named their new manager. Bilic said: "When the new manager
comes it's better to play them straight away because everybody needs a
little bit of time to get to know the players and vice versa. They beat
Chelsea and it was a big boost for them, and since Chelsea they lost to
Newcastle although they played good and deserved something out of that game.
"No defeat is good but that Cup defeat was big for them, but then there were
resting most of their players."
Despite this the manager is still anticipating a difficult match for his
Hammers in another London derby, but Bilic is relishing the challenge. "I'm
expecting a very tough game tomorrow. A very big game. A game of characters.
A game of basic things. A physical game. A mental game. A game that will be
decided with togetherness and also a bit of quality, that I know we have but
also, they have. I hope we are going to use it to make a difference. But
first of all, both teams will have to be very strong, mentally and
physically. "Again, it's a derby and to be fair I'm really looking forward
to the game. I like big games and we're expecting that tomorrow."

A confidence boost from Spurs

A 3-2 comeback victory over rivals Tottenham has put the entire team,
supporters, and Bilic himself in good spirits heading into Saturday's
fixture. The manager was asked what such a win, in such a manner against
local opposition, did for the team. It means a lot of course," Bilic said:
"Like every defeat gets you a little bit down. Also, every win gives you a
boost and a better atmosphere, both for the team and also the individuals.
Especially if it happens like it happened the other night. It was a very
important game against Spurs, it's always a special kind of game and
especially at Wembley. To come back from 2-0 down to 3-2, it gives us a lot
of confidence. "I noticed if we raised the level of quality in the last
third we had a chance. The next goal was the key one and we also improved
our game when they had the ball. I asked that they raised the level and to
stay calm, not to lose focus or faith. That's what the guys did in the most
beautiful way." The manager was keen to emphasis however that his players
would not assume victory over Palace was guaranteed due to the win over
Tottenham. "No, no way. No way," he said when asked about over complacency:
"We beat Tottenham and I said straight after the game that if we think that
now we've beat Spurs that good performances would come by default it would
be totally wrong. "We know we have to build on that performance and to make
it even better, to cut out the mistakes. No one thinks like that."

'My job is about balance'

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson recently described football as a
"constant succession of funerals and parties" and that his job as the new
boss was to keep his players level. When asked about this quote Bilic was in
agreement with his coaching colleague, saying balance is crucial to any
team. He said: "The whole world, no matter in what way of life, there is no
middle. It's all extremes. The weather is like that! There's no Spring or
Autumn, there's Winter or Summer. "As I said before, your job is to keep the
team balanced and in the zone. Not to be too down when on a bad run and not
to fly when you're winning three or four games. Always stay focused and
think about the next game you have. "That's a big part of our job because
everybody else is trying to bring you down if are good and if you aren't,
everyone else is trying to lift you as high as possible. You can't allow
that."

'I'm focused on the things I can influence'

Bilic was once again asked about media speculation but the manager says he
is only worried about the things he can influence in his position. The
Croatian believes that focusing and bringing positivity will see that
speculation subside. "There are rumours but I talk to the chairmen, not
every day, but often enough. I know my situation and our situation. "As I've
told you, I'm totally focused on the things I can influence and that is only
the training, talking to the players, and the game. I am totally focused on
the game because only with that in your head can you improve and you can
affect those kinds of rumours to change."

'The next game is most important game'

West Ham have eight points so far in the Premier League this season but,
when asked if Crystal Palace was the most important game of the campaign,
Bilic offered a philosophical answer. "We said the same against Huddersfield
and the same against Swansea. The same against Brighton and the same against
Burnley. It's the Premier League and it's a very important game. "It's the
most important game. In every league, the biggest game and most important
game is the next one. For us that's the game against Palace tomorrow."

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Team news: Antonio back in training ahead of Crystal Palace clash
WHUFC.com

Slaven Bilic has confirmed that Michail Antonio has returned to first team
training and could be involved in West Ham United's Premier League fixture
with Crystal Palace on Saturday. Antonio sustained a bruised rib in last
Friday's defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion, a knock which forced the
27-year-old to sit out the comeback victory over Tottenham Hotspur at
Wembley on Wednesday. The winger however retuned to training on Thursday,
according to Bilic, and will be involved in the session on Friday afternoon.
A decision will be made on Antonio's availability for Saturday's game based
on how he comes through training. The manager also confirmed that the Iron's
only other absence due to injury will be James Collins, who is still out
after a knock against West Brom last month.

"It's good," Bilic told his press conference when asked about injuries:
"It's only Collins [who will miss out]. Michail Antonio had that bruise on
his rib and he only trained yesterday since the Brighton game, and even
yesterday was without contact. "Antonio will train today and based on that
training we will see what shape he is in for tomorrow's game. "We are going
to see today. As you know we played a couple of days ago and the players who
played had regeneration. We are going to see today with training this
afternoon, but nobody said yesterday that they felt this or that or were
tired. "The situation is that most of the squad is fit and we have to
consider a few things before we decide who will start tomorrow."

Bilic made nine changes to his starting XI for the match with Tottenham on
Wednesday, and that victory has prompted curiosity about West Ham's team for
this weekend's game. The manager admitted those players who performed so
well in the midweek game had given him a pleasant selection headache. Bilic
added: "We wanted to put a strong team out against Spurs. Okay we wanted to
rest some players but the players who played, deserved their chance. They
had already played and had minutes in the Premier League on the Cup in
previous rounds. "On one hand, you have the team that won the game in Spurs
away, and on the other hand you had the guys who played good, not in the
Brighton game, but in the games before that. We also have to bear in mind
that this game is less than 72 hours after the game against Spurs. Sometimes
the energy level, you can't expect the guys to repeat them in that short
period of time. "We will put all that into consideration when we decide who
starts tomorrow. When we decide, and I've said this publicly and to the
guys, the team is above every individual. There's no time or space for long
faces."

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Second cup winner another 'special moment' – Ogbonna
WHUFC.com

Almost two years ago, Angelo Ogbonna provided West Ham United fans
everywhere with a night to remember when he headed in an FA Cup winner
against Liverpool. Fast-forward almost 21 months, and the Italian was at it
again, nodding in the Hammers' third in another cup tie – this time in the
Carabao Cup – to put Slaven Bilic's men into the quarter-finals. Andre Ayew
had already drawn the visitors level at Wembley against Tottenham Hotspur
with a double after Spurs had raced into a two-goal first half lead. It
wasn't just the centre-back's second cup-tie winning goal in a Claret and
Blue shirt, but also Ogbonna's second goal in two games, following a similar
header against Bolton Wanderers in the last round of the competition. The
defender could not hide his delight at the final whistle and beamed as he
hailed the night as one of his top moments at the Club. "It was so
incredible," he said. "It was a really special night and the way we got back
into the game was just incredible. Nobody expected that when we were 2-0
down! "It was so important for us in this situation we are in, to get the
victory. I guess it is not that common for defenders to score so much in cup
competitions like this! "But for me, now I have scored two winners in them
and I am very happy. They are both very, very memorable and special for me.
"For me, it is better to focus more on defending but still of course, at
Wembley, a huge stadium with a history, it was a great moment for me. More
importantly, it was huge for the team and the Club."
With Spurs 2-0 to the good at the break, the Hammers' chances of staging a
comeback looked bleak, but Bilic's men rallied and soon found a way back
into the game through Ayew's tap-in. The Ghanaian was at it again five
minutes later, side-footing past Michel Vorm and into the top corner from
Manuel Lanzini's centre as the momentum swung the Hammers' way. And sure
enough, Ogbonna was there to capitalise and head in the winner from another
terrific Lanzini delivery.
"We were scared when we were 2-0 down," admitted Ogbonna afterwards. "We
were scared but we talked to each other and we said that we cannot give up,
and we have to do something. "We had to be focused and we had to be brave,
because it's not easy in the situation we are in. No matter what we think,
no matter what we say, the important thing is getting results and this will
have helped us. "Maybe we could lose 5-0 or 6-0 but if we focus and do our
best and be brave, we can get back into the game and we did so well to do
that and get something from this game. "I think that I was in the right
position for the corner. One corner earlier, I missed my chance, so I said
to myself I will go there for the next one and if the balls comes, try to
get the ball and win it and it was good to do that."

Without a win in two in the Premier League, however, West Ham are in need of
a performance at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace on Saturday and
Ogbonna believes his side can use the confidence gained at Wembley to pick
up points. "It's given us a good mentality going into the next match, it's
given us confidence," he explained. "We showed really good form [against
Tottenham] so we are excited for the match. "It's important for us. [Palace]
are a different type of team to Tottenham in the style they play, but we
know it will be tough. "We have to look step-by-step and not talk too early.
We have to make sure that we are doing it on the pitch."

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Betway Insider's View of the Opposition: Crystal Palace
WHUFC.com

Fresh from their brilliant comeback against Spurs in the EFL Cup on
Wednesday, West Ham have their sights on a second London away win in the
space of four days this weekend. Interestingly, it was actually against
Crystal Palace that the Hammers picked up their first three points on the
road last season, winning at Selhurst Park for the third successive season.
And, given the Eagles' struggles so far this time around, Slaven Bilic's
side have good reason to feel confident of extending that winning run.
Palace are bottom of the league after accruing just three points from their
first nine matches, with a shock result against Chelsea earlier this month
not proving to be the turning point that some predicted. Their defeat away
to Newcastle last weekend was the eighth time in nine matches this season
that they have lost without scoring a goal. It was also the second time
under Roy Hodgson that they have failed to register a single shot on target,
an inevitable side effect of the former England manager's early attempts to
tighten them up at the back. So, with Christian Benteke still injured and
Wilfried Zaha feeling his way back from injury, another clean sheet for West
Ham's defence – who twice shut out their opponents last season – is more
than achievable.

Particularly considering how little Palace's fringe players did to state
their case on Tuesday, after being thrashed 4-1 by Championship side Bristol
City. West Ham playmaker Manuel Lanzini showed signs in midweek that he is
getting back up to full speed after his own spell on the sidelines, with two
assists to help swing the tie at Wembley. The Argentine has a remarkable
scoring record against Palace, with a goal in each of his four appearances
against them. And, considering that 11 of the 19 goals their hosts have
conceded so far this season have been scored by midfielders popping up in
the box, it is he who may well prove the biggest danger to Palace's
vulnerable defence.

Recommended bets:

West Ham to win – 9/4
West Ham to keep a clean sheet – 5/2
Manuel Lanzini to score at any time – 11/4

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Rice: Beating Spurs was the best night of my life!
WHUFC.com

Declan Rice says West Ham United are targeting a maiden Carabao Cup triumph
after overcoming Tottenham Hotspur on the 'best night' of his life. The
teenager returned to the starting XI at Wembley Stadium and helped the
Hammers recover from two goals down at half-time to win 3-2 and set up a
quarter-final tie at Arsenal. Rice could hardly contain his delight at
playing his part in a night that will live long in the memories of everyone
associated with the Club. "Being my first game at Wembley, after coming here
to watch as a fan many, many times, to get onto the pitch and beat Tottenham
was an amazing moment for me," he said.
"After the first half, most people thought we were down and out, but we had
a big get-together at half-time in the changing room and second half we came
out and showed what we're about. "I've never been part of something like
this before. I can't stop smiling. It's the best night of my life!"

Arsenal will host the Hammers in the fifth round in the week before
Christmas and Rice sees no reason why Slaven Bilic's side cannot complete a
north London double. But before that, there is the not insignificant matter
of Saturday's Premier League fixture at bottom side Crystal Palace. "We're
into the quarter-finals now and that makes Wednesday's result even more
important. We said at the start of the season that we wanted to have a
really good cup run and we've had three good results now and it is Arsenal
up next. "We're really confident, especially after beating a top side like
Spurs. We watched them against Liverpool on Sunday and they were
frightening, but we stopped that and everyone was unbelievable. "Without a
doubt, now we've beaten Spurs, it'll give us confidence going into a big
game at Crystal Palace on Saturday because the camp is buzzing."

Reflecting on the personal experience of facing a top team at the Home of
Football, the 18-year-old was proud, not only of the way West Ham came back,
but defended their lead in the closing stages. "It was kind of one of those
games where you think to yourself 'There are fans here, people are watching,
we're Premier League footballers and we don't want to embarrass ourselves,
so we've got to come out and show what we're really all about', and in the
second half that's what we did. "We had us three (Rice, Cheikhou Kouyate and
Angelo Ogbonna) and Andy [Carroll] dropping in at times at the end. I've
never experienced anything like that, with Premier League stars on top of
me. "It was amazing to be marking those types of players, taking in how they
move. It was a great experience for me."

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Pask: Home support can push us to U23 Manchester City glory
WHUFC.com

Josh Pask hopes the home support for West Ham United's U23s can help them to
victory when they face Manchester City at Dagenham and Redbridge's Chigwell
Construction Stadium on Saturday. Terry Westley's side have put together a
good run of form in the last few games, recording wins over the likes of
Sunderland and Manchester United as well as a goalless draw against Chelsea
in their last Premier League 2 clash. And the centre-back hopes that can
continue when the Sky Blues are visitors to east London on Saturday. He
said: "Hopefully we get a good turnout on Saturday because the first team
are away and it really helps the whole team and means a lot when the fans
are in support of us. "When there is a crowd there to cheer you on, it means
a lot and it has definitely helped us at times in the last couple of seasons
at Dagenham. "We have picked up some really good results recently and
hopefully that can keep going against Manchester City. The boys have been
excellent so far and we are confident going into any game we play."

The Hammers' youngsters have struggled early on in games recently, conceding
early goals to the likes of Villarreal and Manchester United but Pask, and
the rest of the side, were delighted to shut out Chelsea in their 0-0 draw
on Sunday. "It was something that had been the talk of the week leading up
to Chelsea so it was really important for us," continued the centre back.
"Early on, we have struggled recently so that was really important to us
that we stood strong and kept it tight against Chelsea, not just in the
first half but throughout the match. "There has been a couple of injuries in
defence recently, so it has been really good for everyone to have Dec [Rice]
back in the side in defence, and really good for me for him to be alongside
me. "It's helped solidify the back four and we were delighted to get a clean
sheet against Chelsea – Dec's former club."

West Ham face Man City at the Dagenham on Saturday, and supporters not
making the trip to watch Slaven Bilic's first team take on Crystal Palace
can support the U23s for free providing they are Season Ticket Holders.
Alternatively, adult tickets are priced at £5 and concessions are £3 at the
Chigwell Construction Stadium.
Despite the tough task the north west provide, Pask is keen to reward any
supporters who offer their support in east London on Saturday. "We want to
show the fans how much they mean to us," he said. "City are a good side, but
I just will go out there and do my job as best as i can. "I believe all the
boys will do the same and hopefully the outcome will result in a win, for us
and the fans that are there on Saturday."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Crystal Palace v West Ham United
SAT, 28 OCT 2017PREMIER LEAGUE
15:00
Venue: Selhurst Park

West Ham's Manuel Lanzini has scored in each of the last four Premier League
matches against Crystal Palace

TEAM NEWS

Crystal Palace are assessing the fitness of James McArthur and Lee
Chung-yong, who have both been receiving treatment this week.

Christian Benteke remains injured and is not scheduled to return for at
least another four weeks.

Forward Michail Antonio will have a fitness test on the rib injury which
ruled him out of West Ham's Carabao Cup win on Tuesday.

Defender James Collins remains sidelined with an ankle problem.

Forward Andy Carroll is available for league action after serving a
one-match suspension while Andre Ayew is among those pushing for a recall
after impressing against Tottenham.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Simon Brotherton: "West Ham were narrow 1-0 winners in this fixture 12
months ago and we can expect a keenly-fought encounter this weekend in front
of a noisy full house at Selhurst Park.

"Wednesday's Carabao Cup comeback win at Wembley over Tottenham was a major
boost for the Hammers and their beleaguered manager Slaven Bilic, but it
won't mean much if they slip up again here.

"Palace saw off the champions Chelsea, and deservedly so, in their last home
match. If they can play to that level on something like a consistent basis,
they'll soon start moving up the table."

Twitter: @SimonBrotheron

WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY

Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson: "I think there is a belief which is
growing, there is a faith in what they are trying to do as a team.

"Training sessions are one thing, though, matches on a Saturday are a
different thing. We're not judged on how well we do in training, we're
judged on winning on Saturday or not."

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "I know our situation, our situation also
determines my situation. All I can say is it is a massively important game
and we have to get some points after we lost against Brighton at home.

"There are rumours... I talk to the chairman, not every day, but often
enough and I know my situation and I know our situation. But I am totally
focused on the things that I can influence and that is only the training,
talking to the players, and the game.

"I am totally focused on the game because only with that in your head can
you improve and affect those kind of rumours."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Crystal Palace were unlucky to lose at Newcastle in their last game - they
had enough of the play, and enough chances, to take something from the game
but could not convert any of them.

If the Eagles play like that again, they will get something out of this one.

Prediction: 1-1

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Crystal Palace have won only one of the last six Premier League meetings
between the clubs, losing four.
West Ham are unbeaten in their last four league matches with Palace (W3,
D1).
The Hammers earned a league double over the Eagles last season, with Manuel
Lanzini scoring the only goal at Selhurst Park last October.
Crystal Palace

Palace have lost 12 of their last 14 league matches, failing to score in any
of those defeats.
The Eagles have been beaten in 29 league matches in 2017, failing to score
in 17 of them.
This is the third occasion that Palace have started a top-flight season with
one win and eight defeats in their opening nine league matches.
They are the only Premier League side yet to keep a clean sheet.
West Ham United

West Ham are winless in five away league matches this season, drawing two
and losing three.
Their tally of eight points after nine Premier League matches is their
lowest in seven years.
The Hammers have conceded a league-high three penalties, all of which have
resulted in goals.
Under Slaven Bilic, West Ham have conceded 18 penalties in the Premier
League - four more than any other side.
They have conceded five headed goals this season, more than any other side.
Follow Match of the Day on Instagram for the best photos from the world of
football.

SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-1 Probability of draw: 28%
Probability of home win: 41% Probability of away win: 31%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Liverpool hat is used to predict the outcome of
football matches.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss hails Ayew as a 'game changer'
By Stanley Kwenda
BBC Sport

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says Andre Ayew is a "game changer" who can
help the struggling Premier League side rise up the table. Bilic said the
Ghanaian's performance in West Ham's Carabao Cup win against Tottenham on
Wednesday is exactly why he sanctioned a big money move to bring him to the
London club.
"It's me who wanted Andre to join us from Swansea," Bilic told BBC Sport. "I
rate Andre very highly. He's a great player. He was the game changer."

Ayew inspired West Ham to an unlikely win against Tottenham in the Carabao
Cup, scoring two quick-fire goals that sparked West Ham's revival in a 3-2
win.
The West Ham boss is hoping Ayew can add to his two league goals this season
when the Hammers travel to Crystal Palace on Saturday. "He's got that
(knack) for goals," said Bilic. "He's always in a good position at the right
time."

Ayew joined West Ham in August 2016 for around £20m after scoring 15 goals
in his debut Premier League season with Swansea City. The Croatian now wants
his form to continue as his side seek to rise up the Premier League
following a poor start. After nine games, West Ham lie 16th in the table and
are only out of the relegation zone thanks to their goal difference. "I told
him I want him to continue like this - not only scoring, but his game
overall. It's a big boost and I hope it's going to continue," said Bilic.
Just like his manager, Ayew has been under a lot of pressure to perform with
West Ham fans criticising his recent performances. He also recently lost his
place in Ghana's national team, overlooked for the last World Cup qualifier
against Uganda. Bilic, however, is tipping him to regain his form for both
club and country. "Players are always questioned, especially big ones like
Andre," said the Croatian. "For young people, it's not easy to be under that
kind of pressure but he's very strong in his head. He's very mature. "He's
been around for a long time in different countries, and also with Ghana. I
haven't been to Ghana but I can imagine how big the pressure he is under
when he's there for World Cup or Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers." Ghana,
who can no longer qualify for Russia 2018, play their final qualifier at
home to Egypt next month.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WHAT WENT WRONG AGAINST BRIGHTON AND CANNOT BE REPEATED!!
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 27 OCTOBER 2017 AT 10:02AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @farehamhammer

Editor's note: Before I write this can I just say that Fareham wrote the
article on Monday and because of the radio show and the Spurs match I have
only just got round to putting this on. It's well written and deserves to
be published but of course didn't then take into account we have beaten
Spurs since it was written. I think it is important to see the clear
differences between Fareham's great summary here of the Brighton game and
what made the second half against Spurs so much better.

Mama put the guns in the ground.

I can't shoot them anymore.

That cold black cloud is coming down.

Feels like I'm knocking on Heaven's door.

Knock-knock-knocking on Heaven's door.

The words of the song boomed through the Fareham precinct this morning, as
shopping was being done. Appropriate word's for every West Ham supporter on
Friday night! After that fiasco many would have come to the conclusion that
this is a black cloud too many. "I'm finished with this mob! Not coming back
until Bilic, The Board, The Players or whoever you blamed for the fiasco
have left The Club".

On Twitter supporters voiced their fury out on said individuals. We are
ABSOLUTELY RIGHT, to vent our fury regards Friday nights shambles! But
unfortunately for us as supporters, there is no escape. West Ham is in the
blood It's a way of life. Almost like a couple who have had a furious bust
up, the one half knocks on the door and sheepishly says "Can we talk?" The
person comes in, they talk, and five minutes later they are holding hands
again. Same with us Hammers. Finished on Friday night, but back on board by
Sunday.

It is clear something is seriously amiss at The Club. I don't know if there
was more to the HMRC raid than we were led to believe. There may even be bad
blood between Sullivan and Bilic over Payet. I don't think Sullivan had any
intention of selling Payet. He had just given him a loyalty bonus. When
Slaven went public, Sullivan was left with no option but to sell the player.
This is just speculation but something is rotten at The Club and things need
to be sorted quickly or we will go down. If we did go down, we could well
land up like Coventry.

The Board are not going to sack Bilic. It's a myth that Gold and Sullivan
never sack a manager. The only reason why they don't sack them is because
they won't pay compensation. As for the tear jerker "The Board are worried
about the quality of manager available", yeah right! Just like "The
Portuguese are difficult to deal with in the transfer window". What a load
of crap! As with everything regards our Board, money is the issue. Enticing
a good manager from a Club would involve having to pay compensation. No
chance!

Anyway, I will revisit The Board in the not too distant future. However,
when I see some of the managerial 'candidates' suggested by fans on twitter
I cringe: Di Canio, Dicks, Kevin Nolan, some even calling for the ultimate
football prostitute, Harry Redknapp, to return. We are NOT that desperate!

I do have a certain amount of sympathy for The Board for the situation they
find themselves in. Sacking the manager is just one side of the story. If we
brought in the likes of Benitez, Pellegrini, Mancini, or any other big name
manager, they will demand a large transfer war chest for the January
transfer window. 40-50M is a conservative estimate. A lot of dough for a
growing Club like ourselves. If they go the other way and appoint someone
like Sean Dyche or Eddie Howe, there is a reasonable chance things could go
belly up big time. Dyche has limited managerial experience, in charge
nowhere bar Burnley. As for Eddie Howe, ironically the only other Club he
has managed other than Bournemouth has been Burnley. At the latter he most
certainly was not a success.

Like Dyche and Howe, Owen Coyle, Tony Mowbray and Phil Parkinson were hyped
up as young managers headed to the very top. Sadly they are now history.
West Ham simply cannot afford to gamble. I will say it again, Brendan
Rodgers is the one. He can work with a budget, plays attractive football,
and gives youth a chance. I think The Board could well get him now if they
wanted to.

The worst thing about Friday night was that no one could see it coming. We
seemed to have turned the corner and were on the way up, having played some
beautiful football at Burnley in patches. Then we absolutely imploded like
an alcoholic suffering a relapse. This has been the case too often under
Slaven Bilic. We can spend the whole day pointing fingers at this person or
that person, but that won't solve anything. Collectively Bilic, Players, and
Owners are all to blame! The Club is in permanent decline! "This is just
simply not true" some maintain. We have one of the best squads we have in
recent memory. And for the first time in the best part of two decades we
have some quality players coming through from the youth set up. However that
is no good if we produce performances likeFriday Night.

They say that money is the root of all evil but as far as our squad is
concerned money has definitely played a contributing role in the low squad
morale. Wages! When you get the likes of Snodgrass, Fonte, Arnautovic and
Hernandez on huge wages and bonuses, yet you have Mark Noble on £45,000,
Kouyate on £27,000, and Lanzini on £40,000. Then you get the likes of Sakho
on virtual peanuts. Are you telling me there are no camps and division and
resentment in the squad? There must be! It's a bit like you and I working
for a company for ten years, then the company brings in someone to do the
same job as you and gives them double your wages. Of course you would be
pissed off! Upgrading contracts will go a long way towards lifting squad
morale. Do it now, and lift the morale!

What of the manager and his coaching staff? Well, we cannot let it go on
like this! The players don't look fit. Even a workhorse like Antonio looked
exhausted after 20 minutes. The squad looked as though they were strangers
who never had played together before. Bilic resembled a punch drunk boxer,
standing on the touchline not having a clue how to change things. Good
players don't become bad players overnight. Neither do players go on to the
pitch and think "F*** Bilic, I'm going to play s*** today". It's all about
confidence. The manager loses confidence and obviously it has a knock on
effect with the players. A fresh face often gives a team a boost, gradually
raising everyones confidence. If I was Sullivan I would give Terry Westley a
duel role. Head of The Academy, as well as Director of Football at The Club.
He needs to be able to give an input as far as the first team squad affairs
are concerned, as well as running The Academy. We would then hopefully see a
couple of our youth players given a chance to showcase their talents. Just
thinking about some of the youth coming through lifts the gloom.

It is true that Bilic may not want the likes of Westley or anyone else as
Director of Football. In that case he should do the honourable thing and
resign. Either way, whether it be via Director of Football or managerial,
change is coming. So it should be! It is ridiculous that we find ourselves
in the position we are in the first place. However we shall overcome!

We are more than a football club!

We're a way of life!

COYI!!

Farehamhammer!!!

(Edited By Danny Twigg)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rice: the camp is buzzing
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th October 2017
By: Staff Writer

Declan Rice says that beating Tottenham at Wembley on Wednesday night was
the highlight of his fledgling career. The 18-year-old defender played the
full 90 minutes as West Ham sent Spurs crashing out of the competition
thanks to a superb second half comeback, having been 2-0 behind at half
time. And Rice - who has made seven first team appearances since his full
debut at Burnley on the opening day of last season - was in no doubt that it
was the finest moment he is yet to experience. "After coming to Wembley as a
fan to watch many, many times, to get onto the pitch and beat Tottenham was
an amazing moment for me," he told West Ham's website. "After the first
half, most people thought we were down and out - but we had a big
get-together at half-time in the changing room and, in the second half, came
out and showed what we're about. "I've never been part of something like
this before. I can't stop smiling. It's the best night of my life!"

Although Rice is likely to return to the bench for tomorrow trip to Crystal
Palace, he firmly believes that Wednesday's win at Wembley will provide a
springboard to better things for the squad. "We said at the start of the
season that we wanted to have a really good cup run and we've had three good
results now," he added. "We're really confident, especially after beating a
top side like Spurs. "Without a doubt, now we've beaten Spurs, it'll give
us confidence going into a big game at Crystal Palace on Saturday because
the camp is buzzing."

Meanwhile Wednesday night's match winner, Angelo Ogbonna, also feels that
the confidence boost from beating Spurs on their own turf will prove
instrumental.
"It's given us a good mentality going into the next match and it's given us
confidence," he added. "We showed really good form so we are excited for the
match [against Palace]. "It's important for us. They are a different type of
team to Tottenham in the style they play, but we know it will be tough. We
have to take it step-by-step and make sure that we are doing it on the
pitch."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tufnell refutes 'fix' allegations
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th October 2017
By: Staff Writer

Former cricketer Phil Tufnell had denied charges of foul play relating to
the Carabao Cup quarter final draw in which he was involved yesterday.
Tufnell, along with former England rugby union international Matt Dawson
conducted the draw in secret after it was claimed that plans to broadcast it
live fell through due to a "technical hitch" at Twitter UK. And the former
England international spin bowler responded to the furore this morning by
insisting that the draw was perfectly legitimate - and that claims it had
been delayed due to his poor-timekeeping were also wide of the mark. "I
understand football fans' frustrations yesterday due to the delay in the
Carabao Cup quarter-final draw due to technical issues that were beyond both
Matt's and my control," said the Arsenal-supporting Tufnell, in a statement.
"However, due to the outpouring on Twitter where some suggested the delay
was likely due to my lateness, I feel I need to clarify this was certainly
not the case. "In fact, despite sledging by not only members of the general
public but also people within the media suggesting it's my 'form' to be
late, I actually pride myself on my time-keeping and arrived at the venue in
good time. "'Further, I totally refute ludicrous allegations that I would be
involved in anything not above board. Matt and I pulled out the balls in
front of various representatives who from my understanding were official
adjudicators! "Worse, for people to accuse me of anything untoward disgusts
and upsets me. I'm a football fan and former sportsman that was excited and
honoured to be asked to be a part of this and took the role seriously. "If
you have any further issues with this please take it up with the organisers
of this event and not me!"

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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic focused on football not future
By Richard Cooke
Last Updated: 27/10/17 2:16pm
SSN

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says he knows his situation and talks
regularly to the chairman but he is focused on playing Palace and not his
future.
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic insists he is not thinking about the rumours
that persist about his future. Bilic has been under increasing pressure with
the team winning just two of their nine league games this season, the 3-0
defeat at home to Brighton last Friday leaving them 16th in the table ahead
of Saturday's trip Crystal Palace. West Ham's stunning comeback to beat
Tottenham 3-2 in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday when they were 2-0 down at
half-time has gone some way to ease the pressure on Bilic, but he is under
no illusions that defeat at bottom club Palace would up the ante again. He
said: "I know our situation, our situation also determines my situation. All
I can say is that it is a massively important game and we have to get some
points after we lost against Brighton at home. "There are rumours and all
that. I talk to the chairman, not every day, but often enough and I know my
situation and I know our situation. "But I am totally focused on the things
that I can influence and that is only the training, talking to the players,
and the game. I am totally focused on the game because only with that in
your head can you improve and affect those kind of rumours."
Bilic was delighted by the resilience his side showed at Wembley in midweek
and he is hoping they can carry that momentum into their league campaign.
"For the next game it is very important," he added. "We want to continue
like that and we want to use that kind of a win, and self-confidence now,
when we approach the game tomorrow. "But tomorrow is a new game and
definitely we are in a position to build on something that was good only a
couple of days ago. It's a game of massive importance and we have to show
the same quality and character."

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Crystal Palace v West Ham preview: James McArthur a doubt for Palace
Last Updated: 27/10/17 2:05pm
SSN

Crystal Palace are hopeful James McArthur will be available to face West Ham
on Saturday. The midfielder has been undergoing treatment all week in a bid
to be fit to face the Hammers, who, like Palace, have struggled in the
Premier League this season. Palace have just one win from nine games while
West Ham have only won twice. The two sides are coming off contrasting
results in the Carabao Cup in midweek, though, with Palace losing 4-1 to
Championship side Bristol City and the Hammers coming from 2-0 down to beat
Tottenham 3-2 at Wembley. "Wednesday night's game should set the standard
for us, in terms of closing teams down, in terms of compactness, in terms of
team play, in terms of sacrificing everything for the team," said West Ham
manager Slaven Bilic, whose position has been under scrutiny this week. "We
will win some games and we will lose some games, but I am quite confident we
are on a good way."

Team news

West Ham will have Andy Carroll available after he was banned for the defeat
to Brighton last week, but Andre Ayew will be pushing to start after scoring
twice against Tottenham. Michail Antonio faces a late fitness test after
missing the win at Wembley due to a bruised rib. Defender James Collins
remains sidelined because of an ankle problem.

McArthur will face a late fitness test for Palace while Lee Chung-yong has
been sent for a scan after receiving a nasty kick in the defeat at Bristol
City on Tuesday, so remains doubtful. Christian Benteke and Connor Wickham
are both out.

Opta stats

Crystal Palace have lost their last three home games against West Ham in
league competition, their longest losing run versus the Hammers on home
soil.

West Ham are unbeaten in the Premier League versus Crystal Palace under
Slaven Bilic (W3 D1 L0).

Crystal Palace have lost 12 of their last 14 Premier League games to nil.
Over 2017 as a whole, 17 of their 29 Premier League games have seen them
lose without scoring.

Manuel Lanzini has scored in all four of his Premier League games against
Crystal Palace (four goals). Lanzini has netted more Premier League goals vs
the Eagles than any other West Ham player and nine of his 14 Premier League
goals have come in London derby matches (64%). Only Riyad Mahrez (50) has
attempted more dribbles this season than Palace's Andros Townsend & West
Ham's Michail Antonio (both 43). However, the Palace winger has beaten his
opponent with 30 of these (70%) while Antonio has only been successful with
13 (30%).

Merson's prediction

West Ham will get a massive amount of belief from beating Tottenham and
Crystal Palace, who lost a six-pointer to Newcastle, just got hammered 4-1
by Bristol City in the Carabao Cup. I know they didn't put out a full team
but you don't lose by that many to a Championship side. You need to start
building your confidence.
Any fan wants to see desire, a bit of heart, and West Ham showed that in the
second half at Wembley. Fair play to them, I can't imagine too many of the
players wanted to come back onto the pitch 2-0 down at half-time but to
rally and win the match is impressive.

Paul predicts: 1-1 (Sky Bet odds 5/1)

Betting

Crystal Palace are 13/10 favourites against fellow strugglers West Ham, who
can be backed at 21/10 with the draw on offer at 23/10.

Wilfried Zaha is 5/1 favourite to open the scoring, with the Hammers' Javier
Hernandez 6/1. It's 9/1 for no goals in this one.

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MATCH PREVIEW: CRYSTAL PALACE V WEST HAM
By Dan Coker 27 Oct 2017 at 08:00
WTID

Blast from the past

Today's blast from the past involves a trip back to 28th March 1910 when
West Ham United enjoyed a 4-2 Southern League First Division victory over
Crystal Palace in front of 20,000. Edward VII had fallen very ill in Paris
with bronchitis and was in the last six weeks of his life and reign, Bela
Bartok's 'String Quartet No.1' had premiered in Budapest nine days earlier
and, ten days before the game, the first cinematic version of Mary Shelley's
Frankenstein had been released in the United States by Edison Studios,
becoming one of the first ever horror films.

This Easter Monday match was West Ham's third of four games in five days –
they had beaten Palace 3-1 at home in the reverse fixture on Good Friday,
lost 2-1 at Millwall on Easter Saturday and went on to win 1-0 at Southend
on Tuesday 29th March. I wonder how Jose Mourinho would cope with such a
schedule! Legendary Hammers goal-getter Danny Shea was on the scoresheet at
the Crystal Palace Stadium (the pre-Wembley home of the FA Cup Final), as
was outside-right Herbert 'Tiddler' Ashton. Shea would end the 1909/10
season as the Irons' top scorer with 31 goals in 43 games and Ashton would
make 336 appearances for the Hammers but it was a lesser-known light who
stole the show against our south London neighbours.


23-year-old Albert Scanes (pictured) made his debut during this game and
outshone both Shea and Ashton on the day. Born in Stepney on 19th December
1886 and signed from Barking as an understudy to West Ham's first ever
England international George Webb, whose business commitments often
prevented him from appearing for the Hammers, Scanes bagged a brace on his
debut to help the Hammers to this 4-2 victory over the Glaziers. He would
play only three games for West Ham, scoring three goals, with his other
strike coming in a 1-0 home victory over Northampton twelve days later. He
would move on to Croydon Common in 1911 and was a wood machinist in later
life. He passed away in 1972 at the age of 85.

Syd King's Hammers would finish ninth in the Southern League First Division
in 1909/10, while the Glaziers would end the campaign in seventh place, one
point and two places above the Irons. Brighton were promoted from the
division to the Football League as champions. Aston Villa won the league
title and Newcastle won the FA Cup.

West Ham United: George Kitchen, Fred Shreeve, Bob Fairman, Robert Whiteman,
Fred Massey, Tommy Randall, Herbert Ashton, Danny Shea, Albert Scanes, Fred
Blackburn, Thomas Caldwell.

Club Connections

Jose Fonte returns to Selhurst Park, while West Ham United Academy product
and 2012 Hammer of the Year runner-up James Tomkins could feature for
Crystal Palace. A large group of players have turned out for the Hammers and
the Eagles. Divided here by position, they include:

Goalkeepers: Perry Suckling, Steve Mautone, Vincent Blore.

Defenders: Eddie Presland, Kenny Brown, Malcolm Pyke, Alf Noakes, Bill
Roberts, Neil Ruddock, Paul Brush, Danny Gabbidon, Chris Powell, Alan
Stephenson, Tony Gale, Matthew Upson, Darren Powell.

Midfielders: Jimmy Wood, Anton Otulakowski, Hayden Mullins, Derek Jackman,
Carl Fletcher, Harry Gunning, Jobi McAnuff, Fred Norris, Trevor Dawkins,
Kyel Reid, Ray Houghton, Michael Hughes.

Strikers: Joe Johnson, Ron Williams, Ian Wright, Andy Smillie, Jeroen Boere,
Johnny Cartwright, Johnny Byrne, Peter Simpson, Clive Allen, Dave
Swindlehurst, Paul Kitson, Ron Brett, Dave Sexton, Marouane Chamakh, George
Petchey, Freddie Sears.

Malcolm Allison and Jack Tresadern played for the Hammers and managed the
Eagles, while Iain Dowie played for both clubs and also managed Palace. Alan
Pardew played for the Eagles and managed both clubs. Sam Allardyce has also
managed both clubs.

Today's focus though is on a current Nigeria international winger. Victor
Moses was born in Lagos, Nigeria on 12th December 1990, the son of a
Christian pastor. When Victor was just 11 years old in 2002 and playing in
the street with a football bound together with sticky tape, his parents
Austin and Josephine were attacked in their home and murdered. Religious
riots between the Muslim majority and Christian minority divided Nigeria and
Moses' father, who had his own church, was a target. The orphaned Victor was
hidden by his uncle for a week after the murder before he was flown to
England for his own safety to seek asylum.

Moses, who was coached by former Chelsea and Arsenal defender Colin Pates
while at school in Croydon, was offered a place in Crystal Palace's Academy
and scored 50 goals in one season for the Under-14s. He made his first team
debut at the age of 16 on 6th November 2007 in a 1-1 draw with Cardiff. His
first goal for the club arrived on 12th March 2008 in a 1-1 draw with West
Brom. Moses made 16 appearances as the Eagles reached the Championship
play-offs and signed a new contract with Neil Warnock's men at the end of
the season.

The winger scored twice in 32 matches in 2008/09 but Palace plummeted to
finish in 15th position. Moses went on a run of scoring six goals in eight
matches in the first half of 2009/10 and, as Palace went into administration
in January 2010, the 20-year-old Moses was sold to Premier League Wigan for
£2.5m. He had scored 11 goals for Crystal Palace in 69 appearances.

Moses spent two and a half years at Wigan before signing for Chelsea in
August 2012. He made a loan move to Liverpool the next summer, spending the
2013/14 season at Anfield before another season-long loan move to Stoke
materialised for 2014/15.

A third season-long loan took him to Slaven Bilic's West Ham United on 1st
September 2015 but not before the 24-year-old Moses had signed a four-year
contract with Chelsea, his parent club. He made his debut in a 2-0 home win
over Newcastle on 14th September 2015 and scored his first goal for the
Hammers in his next match five days later, the opener in our terrific 2-1
triumph at Manchester City.

An injury sustained at Old Trafford in early December, coupled with the
emergence of Michail Antonio as a force in his stead, curtailed Moses'
progress but he did score his second goal for the Irons in our 5-1 FA Cup
fifth round win at Blackburn on 21st February 2016. His final appearance for
the club was as a substitute on the final day of last season in the 2-1
defeat at Stoke. Having scored twice in 26 matches for West Ham United,
Moses returned to Chelsea.

Moses, now 26, was a revelation for Antonio Conte's title-winning Blues last
season in the right wing-back position. He has also scored nine goals in 27
appearances for Nigeria since making his debut in 2012, having appeared for
England at youth levels.

Referee

The referee on Saturday will be Bobby Madley. The Yorkshire-based official
will take charge of a West Ham game for the eighth time in the Premier
League, having also refereed our 2-1 victory at Manchester City in September
2015 and our 2-0 home win over Liverpool in January 2016. Madley's most
controversial appointment with the Irons saw him award Chelsea a last-minute
penalty at Stamford Bridge in March 2016 which saw the Blues salvage a 2-2
draw – replays showed that Michail Antonio's foul on Reuben Loftus-Cheek had
occurred outside the penalty area.

The 32-year-old refereed four Hammers matches last season, those being the
1-0 home wins against Sunderland in October and Burnley in December, as well
as the 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth in March, when he awarded the home side two
penalties which were both missed, and the final day 2-1 win at Burnley.
Madley was also the man in the middle on a previous occasion when the
Hammers travelled to Burnley – Matt Taylor and Jack Collison converted one
spot-kick each in a 2-0 League Cup fourth round win at Turf Moor in October
2013, while Keith Treacy was sent off for the hosts for his involvement in
the second penalty incident.

Possible line-ups

Crystal Palace will be without injured midfielder Chung-Yong Lee, as well as
strikers Connor Wickham and Christian Benteke. Roy Hodgson also has a doubt
over James McArthur, who faces a late fitness test.

Slaven Bilic has seen a number of players put themselves into contention for
a starting spot after Wednesday night's win over Tottenham. James Collins,
Michail Antonio and Diafra Sakho could all be unavailable. West Ham will be
aiming for their fourth consecutive win at Selhurst Park.

Possible Crystal Palace XI: Speroni; Ward, Dann, Sakho, van Aanholt; Sako,
Milivojevic, Cabaye, Schlupp; Townsend, Zaha.

Possible West Ham United XI: Hart; Fonte, Reid, Ogbonna; Zabaleta, Noble,
Kouyate, Cresswell; Lanzini, Chicharito, Ayew.

Enjoy the game – Up The Hammers!

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WEST HAM STARLET'S LONG WAIT FOR FIRST TEAM ACTION COULD BE ABOUT TO END
Date: 27th October 2017 at 5:15pm
Written by: David Tully
Forever WestHam

German newspaper Express are tipping on loan West Ham defender Reece Oxford
to make his first appearance for Borussia Monchengladbach this weekend.

There has been speculation that the centre back could return to the Hammers
due to a lack of game time, but the player has spoken out in recent weeks
that he wants to remain on loan.

The German club have the joint worst defensive record in the Bundesliga,
conceding 17 goals in their first nine games, but manager Dieter Hecking has
so far failed to select Oxford for any competitive match this season. The
England under 20 international has been on the bench for every league game
this season but was not included in the squad for Tuesday's German Cup tie
against Fortuna Dusseldorf.

Express suggest the 18 year old's absence was a good sign that he may be
selected to start against Hoffenheim tomorrow afternoon. Changes are
expected in the defence for the game after Gladbach were hammered 5-1 by
Bayer Leverkusen last weekend. The Bundesliga side are currently eighth in
the league heading into the match.

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