Daily WHUFC News - 18th November 2017

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

After the final international break of the calendar year West Ham United return to action this weekend away to Watford.

With David Moyes now at the helm the Hammers will be eager to impress the new boss. Read on for all the information you need ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with the Hornets.

Where and when?

Watford v West Ham United will be played at Vicarage Road on Sunday 19 November, with kick-off scheduled for 4.00pm.

How to follow:

Sunday's match between West Ham United and Watford is set to be shown live on Sky Sports on their Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event channels. The coverage is set to begin at 3:30pm.

You can also 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!

Audio coverage will also be provided by BBC Radio 5 Live.

Team news:

David Moyes has revealed he will likely include 'one or two' members of the West Ham United U23s in his squad against Watford with a couple of players – including Chicharito – set to miss the match with injury.

Chicharito, picked up a hamstring injury while on international duty with Mexico, which the manager has confirmed will keep the striker out of this weekend's fixture.

The U23s have been training with the West Ham first team over the international break and Moyes is ready to bring a couple of these players into his matchday squad for Sunday's contest, having been impressed with what he's seen from the youngsters during his first ten days in charge.


Match officials:

Referee: Andre Marriner
Assistant Referees: Simon Beck & Simon Long
Fourth Official: Stuart Attwell

Meet the opposition:

When Marco Silva took over at Watford in the summer even the most optimistic of Hornets fans couldn't have foreseen just how well the team would perform under his guidance.

15 points from the first 11 Premier League games this season puts Watford ninth in the league and their style of play under Silva has earned praise among football supporters and pundits.

West Ham fans can take heart however, as Watford's home form leaves much to be desired. Just one win at Vicarage Road this campaign in the league for the Hornets is a statistic that the Hammers will grab to heading into Sunday's match.

One to watch:

Not a player this week but the eyes of fans, pundits and the footballing world will be on David Moyes as he prepares for his first game in charge of the Hammers.

Having taken charge early last week the Scottish coach has had the international break to get to know his new team and players in the build up to Sunday's match.

How will Moyes set up his West Ham team tactically and who will be in his starting XI? These are the questions supporters are looking for answers for.

Head-to-head:

Recent matches between West Ham United and Watford have been relatively split. Both sides have collected wins and also picked up losses. Indeed, in our last six matches with the Hornets, West Ham have won two, drawn two and been defeated in two.

Last campaign a 2-4 home defeat was followed by a 1-1 draw at Vicarage Road, which was earned thanks to Andre Ayew's effort in the second half after an early penalty from Troy Deeney.

The two sides also swapped wins in their respective home fixtures in the season prior.

Last five meetings:

Watford 1-1 West Ham United, Premier League, February 25 2017
West Ham United 2-4 Watford, Premier League, September 10 2016
West Ham United 3-1 Watford, Premier League, April 20 2016
Watford 2-0 West Ham United, Premier League, October 31 2015
West Ham United 1-1 Watford, Championship, March 7 2012

How to get there:

By London Underground: Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is just under one mile from Vicarage Road.

By train: The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.

By car: Watford advise that there is no parking around Vicarage Road for fans. The closest car park is Church Car Park in Watford town centre, a ten-minute walk from the stadium.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes: First impressions, leaders & 500 Premier League games
WHUFC.com

David Moyes spoke to the media on Friday ahead of his first match as West Ham United manager, against Watford on Sunday. The new Hammers boss spoke about his upcoming 500th game as a Premier League manager, the Hornet's impressive start to the season under Marco Silva, and what he has seen so far from his new team and new assistant Stuart Pearce…

'I'm not frightened to give them more'

Moyes's first ten days in charge have come across the final international break of the calendar year, meaning a number of regular first team players have been away with their respective countries and therefore not under the new boss. The Scotsman admits that not having those players hasn't been easy but has also given him the chance to work more closely with the squad he has had at his disposal – including the U23s, who have trained all week at Rush Green.
Moyes said: "We've been doing a lot of work this week but we've been without two or three key players. But it's the same for every club. There's international duty and your players don't get back until later on. "As a new manager, on the plus side, it's given me a chance to get to know the U23s and it's given me a chance to train with the boys who are here. I've had several conversations with them – group and individual. I've tried to get around as many of them as I can and I'm hoping to do the same with the ones that have just come back in the next few days."

The new manager was also asked what the stand-out impression had been from his initial period in charge, to which Moyes indicated the application from his players had been a pleasing sight to see. He added: "I think really how much the players have been committed to what we've asked them to do [has impressed me]. The players have grasped it and got on with the job in everything we've done. They've embraced it and they've shown a level of commitment in their training and work. I'm not frightened to give them more or keep feeding them information. "I think they've been very good in what they've taken in. We've tried to put in a lot of work to them but on the other hand we need to make sure we save energy for the game as well."

'One player can make a good team look even better'

Despite losing their last three matches Watford's performances this campaign have earned the Hornets praise from pundits across the country. Watford currently sit ninth in the Premier League and Moyes is impressed with what he's seen so far from Sunday's opponents, in particular summer signing Richarlison – who has four goals and two assists in the Premier League this season. "I think Watford have played really well," Moyes admitted: "I think their football has been quite smooth and they are in a really healthy league position. "They've got a player who is making a bit of a difference in Richarlison. Sometimes that one player can make a good team look even better. He's done that."

West Ham's new boss also hailed the impact of Marco Silva, who has caught the eye since moving to the Premier League earlier this year. A decent run at Hull City has been followed up with a move to Watford, and the Hornet's early season form is seeing the Portuguese coach linked with another move already.
And Moyes reckons that speculation is the result of positive work and results by Sunday's counterpart. "I think Marco Silva has done a really good job at Hull City and at Watford. That's why – if you do good jobs – you get mentioned for the big jobs. I think what he's done is the reason why. "He's shown he can come in, he can work in this league, and he's had a great success of his teams at home. I think he's started very well in this country."

'He's got a real fire in his belly'

Moyes confirmed his assistants this week with former West Ham defender Stuart Pearce joining his backroom team. The Scottish boss was full of praise for the newest addition to his coaching team, who previously coached Manchester City, the England U21s and the Great Britain Olympic team. "He's got a real fire in his belly which hasn't changed since he was a player," Moyes said on Pearce: "He's got bundles of experience as both a player and a manager. There's great knowledge.

Moyes also hailed his other coaches – Alan Irvine and Billy McKinlay – and feels he has added quality appointments that will cover every angle at West Ham.
"I want us to have a team that has every angle covered. I feel I've brought people in who can do different jobs for me here and if they're all at it, it makes my job easier at the top."

'I don't know any manager that doesn't want players like that'

"I think there's quite a lot," Moyes said when asked about natural leaders in the West Ham United team. The former Everton and Manchester United boss has emphasised his desire for his players to show they can be responsible for themselves and Moyes believes, in his current West Ham team, he has got exactly what he's looking for. "You want players that take responsibility and players who are going to dig each other out. I don't know any manager that doesn't want players like that. You want players who communicate and I've got to say that I've seen that here. It gives me big hope. You need the players to take ownership of what they are doing and their own personal performances." However, Moyes admits it will take some time for his side to be confident enough to assume control without his input. "I used to say to my old players that they didn't really need me. You can run the team yourselves. You know your jobs and you know what your responsibilities are. You know the standards you've got to set. "When do the players take that responsibility and say: 'we know what we're doing'? I don't expect that to happen just now. That take time to grow with confidence. But because of our position we have to find a way to quickly find what works for the players."

'Maybe once I've finished I'll see 500 Premier League games as good'

Moyes's first game in charge of West Ham this weekend will coincide with the manager's 500th in the Premier League. The 54-year-old however is not concerning himself with such a milestone at this stage in his career. Moyes however does admit he has an ambition of managing 1,000 matches by the time his days as a coach are over. His number across all clubs and all competitions currently stands at 888. When asked about his 500th Premier League match Moyes said: "I think it's going to become harder and harder to get to those levels. I don't necessarily take my own individual milestones as anything that's important. But maybe after I've finished I'll think it's good. "I'd love to get to a thousand games. I think a lot of managers make that and I think it's a great achievement, no matter at what level."

'What changes managers is winning and losing'

It was put to Moyes on Radio 5 Live earlier this week that he looked 'five years younger' since taking the West Ham job, and the manager was asked in his press-conference if he felt younger. Moyes joked the move to London was a cause before suggesting he always felt young due to his involvement in the daily coaching routine, before admitting that it's the result of the matches that ultimately determines of a manager feels or looks. "It must be coming down South! I've always felt like a young coach. I feel like it because I'm out on the grass working. It's been good. "What changes managers is winning and losing. I've not had any games. My games are to come and I have to win them. It's tough but I feel good and I've really enjoyed my short time off. I'm enjoying doing what I do."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pearce: It's an exciting challenge for all of us
WHUFC.com

It may be more than 18 years since Stuart Pearce first pulled on the claret and blue shirt as a player but, although much has changed since then, the former England left-back insists the heart of West Ham United remains very much the same. Pearce returned to the club this week as one of new manager David Moyes' coaching assistants and, while he may have a new stadium and a new training ground to get used to, the 55-year-old is looking forward to reconnecting with the people who have always remained a constant pillar of loyalty. "I think all football clubs have got a set DNA," said Pearce, in an exclusive interview with whufc.com. "And that DNA probably comes from the fans. West Ham fans have the right to be demanding, which is a refreshing thing, but we also need them to be supportive. "Any football club in the country needs that support, and it's vital that the supporters feel valued by the players and everyone connected with the club."

Pearce first arrived at Upton Park in the summer of 1999, towards the end of a long and distinguished career that saw him win 78 England caps. Signed by Harry Redknapp on a free transfer from Newcastle, he went on to make 50 appearances over the course of two seasons – a figure that would no doubt have been higher had he not suffered a broken leg early on in his debut season, when he famously played on with the injury against Watford at Upton Park.
"I've matured a little bit more since then and playing on with a broken leg isn't something I'd advise now!" he smiles. "Life certainly wasn't dull under Harry. I was 37-years-old when I joined and, within my first few games, I was called back into the England squad, so it was a real Indian summer for my career. "It was an eventful couple of years but it was fantastic to join a squad of real youthful players that we had at the club then, and a real sprinkle of talent aswell. I'd like to think that I played my part in trying to help those players, which is the job of an experienced player. "It's a fantastic club," he adds. "I had two great years here, some ups and downs but, in the main, real good memories and some fond memories of people here. "It's been nice to see four or five members of staff who were here when I was here as a player, and there are a few familiar faces in the playing squad too, such as Mark Noble and Joe Hart, who I know from my time with England, and Michail Antonio, who I worked with at Forest. But it's also nice to get to know a new squad of players, and it's an exciting challenge for all of us."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Team news: Chicharito injured as Moyes eyes 'one or two' U23s for Watford clash
WHUFC.com

David Moyes has revealed he will likely include 'one or two' members of the West Ham United U23s in his squad against Watford with a couple of players – including Chicharito – set to miss the match with injury. Moyes is preparing for his first match in charge of the Hammers – one which coincides with his 500th as a Premier League manager – but will need to do so without Chicharito, who picked up a hamstring injury while on international duty with Mexico, which the manager has confirmed will keep the striker out of this weekend's fixture. The U23s have been training with the West Ham first team over the international break and Moyes is ready to bring a couple of these players into his matchday squad for Sunday's contest, having been impressed with what he's seen from the youngsters during his first ten days in charge.

Moyes revealed in his press-conference: "I think everyone knows he [Chicharito] has got a hamstring injury. It could take a week, it could take two weeks. Because of the level it's at we're not sure. "I think it's only when we get him back running again we will know if it's going to be a bit longer or if it's going to be fine." "We've had the U23s training with us for the last week and a half," Moyes continued. "I'll go and have a look at the U23s tonight [against Derby County]. We've got a few injuries so it will probably mean that I'm going to bring one two players with me from the U23s into the first team squad. "They've been involved in all the training sessions. They're getting to know the boys and myself. I'm starting to get to know one or two of them."

Moyes also confirmed that Winston Reid and Diafra Sakho had not trained on Friday, due to returning from international duty this morning, but expected the pair to be ready for Watford. He added: "Today some of the players returned for the first time. Winston Reid has flown in this morning, so did Diafra Sakho. I'm expecting both of them to be fit for the game. "Neither of them trained today but with a bit of luck they'll both be back."

However, the new West Ham manager also revealed that, despite being back in training, James Collins would not feature this weekend. Moyes said: "Collins has only just returned to training after around seven weeks out. He's working hard but he won't be ready."

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

If Watford's recent record is anything to go by, West Ham's visit to Vicarage Road will live up to its 'Super Sunday' billing.

Matches involving the Hornets have featured 38 goals this season, a tally only bettered by Manchester City.

But, unlike the Premier League leaders, a poor recent defensive record is largely responsible.

Marco Silva's side have conceded in each of their last seven matches, including once to Stoke, twice to West Brom and Swansea, and three times in an ugly capitulation at Everton last time out.

And of particular interest to David Moyes will be the hosts' record from set-pieces.

Watford have conceded directly from a corner in six of their last seven matches, three of which have been headed goals from centre-backs.

As a result, Angelo Ogbonna, who has scored twice already this season, is a very attractive long shot to find the net.

Backing the Hammers to score at least twice in the game also makessense.

Unfortunately for Moyes, however, it's rare that the Hornets don't score.

They have scored twice in five of their last six matches, and put three past Liverpool on the opening day of the season.

Richarlison is their main threat, having scored four goals after a summer move from Fluminese.

Regardless, the Hammers should be confident of securing at least a point at Vicarage Road.

Their hosts have lost their last three matches, and have won only one of their six home games this season.

West Ham have not lost any of their last four away from home, and came painfully close to victories at Burnley and Crystal Palace.

Back them not to lose, with both sides finding the net.

Recommended bets

Double chance: Draw/West Ham and both teams to score – 7/4

West Ham to score more than 1.5 goals – 7/4

Angelo Ogbonna to score – 16/1

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble - We want to give the new boss a winning start
WHUFC.com

Captain Mark Noble says West Ham United are determined to pull together behind new manager David Moyes and his staff. The Hammers will play for the first time under Moyes when they head to Watford for Sky Sports' Super Sunday fixture. And Noble says the squad is eager to put the Scot's methods to work when they take to the pitch at Vicarage Road…

One team, one dream

It has been really good working under the new manager David Moyes and his coaching team. When a new manager comes in, the intensity goes up straight away because all the players are playing for a place in the team. Obviously, every manager is different and does things in different ways, and the boys have enjoyed training, doing different activities in the sessions he has put on. I have played under quite a few different managers now and you get used to their ways really quickly. Every manager has different ideas and different ways of playing and we have got to get used to them as quickly as possible as the games come thick and fast, especially in December. We've had a lot of boys away on international duty this past week or two, but most of them were back on Thursday and now we've got our minds focused totally on Watford on Sunday.

Attention to detail

The manager has got a reputation for having a real attention to detail and that has already shone through in the way he has worked with us. He has watched a lot of our games from the last few months of this season and has looked at where we have struggled and wants to correct that. We have been putting things in place to do that on the training field. He has brought in his staff, who have all managed teams in the past and all have their own ideas as well, and they all seem to be bouncing well off each other. The manager has shared his ideas with us about how he wants us to play, but I don't think that's something I should really be sharing with everybody!

Youthful exuberance has given us a boost

We've had Terry Westley's Under-23s over training with us this past fortnight to make up the numbers and, to be honest, that's been great for us. They've been flying around the training pitch, wanting to impress the new manager, which has upped the tempo in training as they are young, fit and eager to show they are ready. It's also great for the manager because it gives him the opportunity to see what's coming through the ranks here at the Club. We've got a lot of senior players back now and we'll turn our attentions 100 per cent towards trying to beat Watford.

We want that winning feeling

Sunday's game at Watford will be a tough one, as every game is at this level in the Premier League. We haven't won on the road yet this season, mainly because we haven't played well enough. I am hoping the new manager situation can have a big impact and we can go to Vicarage Road and get a result. In all honesty, winning is all that matters in this league and winning breeds confidence. We need to win games and I'm sure the manager and his staff will set the team up to go there and win on Sunday. I am not in Watford's dressing room so I'm not sure how the speculation about their own manager will affect them, but I'm pretty sure Marco Silva is focused on the game and getting his own team prepared for Sunday. I am sure it will be a good, competitive job and hopefully we can come out on top. We need to win games at this point and if we can get back-to-back wins, we can start to move up the table.

Farewell Slaven

Before I go, I want to say a few words about Slaven Bilic. When Slaven first came in as our manager in summer 2015, it was a massive job for him to take, being the final season at Upton Park before we moved to the Olympic Stadium, so he was under big pressure to keep us in the Premier League at the time.
We had two really good seasons, finishing seventh and eleventh, but we haven't started the best this season and the pressure was on. The fans really took to Slaven and he had a great first season, but I think he probably learned more as a manager in his second season, when we came eleventh in the Premier League, but he overcame the challenges of losing Dimitri Payet and moving to the new stadium. As you know, Slaven was honest in his interviews and driving out of the training ground he told us there were no hard feelings. These days, it can be quite a ruthless game for a manager if they don't get results. For the last five years, football has become a real business and if you don't win, you pay the consequences.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ladies confirm three new signings
WHUFC.com

22-year-old forward Zoe Swift scored for West Ham against Coventry United22-year-old forward Zoe Swift scored for West Ham against Coventry United
West Ham United Ladies are delighted to announce the signings of three new players in Andria Georgiou, Ellie Zoepfl and Zoe Swift. The three Ladies additions have linked with Greg De Carnys's side and will join the team in playing in the FA Women's Premier League Southern Division.

Georgiou, a 21-year-old midfielder, has previously represented London Bees and also played in the Chelsea, Arsenal and Middlesex's respective Centres of Excellence. USA-born Swift, 22, joins the Irons from the University of Kentucky and will be eager to continue her fine form in front of goal, having netted 25 times for her former side and also scored on her West Ham debut last weekend against Coventry. Zoepfl, a 24-year-old midfielder, also moves to West Ham from America and will be eager to continue her development with the Hammers throughout the remainder of the season.

All three could be in action next Sunday when the Ladies return to action at Rush Green against C&K Basildon.
Admission is free for all season ticket holders and Claret Members, with tickets costing just £2 for anyone else wishing to attend the fixture.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers U18s are 'more determined than ever' - Phillips
WHUFC.com

West Ham United U18s are more determined than ever to turn their form around ahead of Saturday's game against Aston Villa, according to coach Mark Phillips. Over the last ten days, the West Ham U23s have been training with the first team while a number of senior players were away on international duty.
Phillips believes that such an opportunity, to train under the guidance of new manager David Moyes, serves as great motivation to the Academy youngsters.
However, the Hammers coach has stressed that his side's focus remains primarily on Saturday's Premier League U18 contest. "The players are determined as ever to turn things around, and it's important their confidence does not drop. They are a good group of players," Philipps told whufc.com "There are already a couple of U18s training with the U23s and it does serve as motivation as to whether other players can get into the U23s group and then train with the first team, that's the motivation." He added: "But the focus is on Saturday. Every time we've been to Villa, it's always been a very competitive and difficult game so the boys must be concentrated."

The U18s looked to have found their feet when they beat Reading 1-0 at the Little Heath Sports Ground. However, last week's defeat to Steven Gerrard's Liverpool has meant more hard work is needed on the training ground, according to Phillips. "We looked to have turned a corner when we drew against Norwich and beat Reading before we lost at Liverpool. "As long as we're competing in games, we will do well and the victories will come. We must keep working extra hard on training pitch, keep believing."

The Hammers travel to Birmingham without top goalscorer Korrey Henry, after he picked up a hamstring injury in the team's training session on Friday.
Yet, Phillips is confident that his team can come away with three points as long as his players perform to their maximum. "We need to keep performing well in games", he said. "If you perform well, the results will come."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rampant Rams prove too strong for young Hammers at London Stadium
WHUFC.com

West Ham United U23s missed their opportunity to rise to second place in Premier League 2 Division 1 as Derby County proved too strong under the Friday night lights at London Stadium.

Terry Westley's youngsters began the evening in fourth and could have closed the gap on leaders Liverpool to just a single point, only for three first-half goals to set the rampant Rams on their way to a shock 5-1 victory.

With new first-team manager David Moyes and his assistants watching on among the 1,208-strong crowd, a disappointing evening for the Hammers looked on the cards after just 28 seconds, when striker Offrande Zanzala held off Tunji Akinola before finishing across Nathan Trott and inside the far post.

The home side then looked to have settled and gained some sort of control, with Sead Haksabanovic forcing Josh Barnes into a smart save, only for Luke Thomas to sweep past Trott to double Derby's lead on 21 minutes.

West Ham again briefly threatened as Alex Pike, Toni Martinez and Martin Samuelsen all went close from three Haksabanovic corners, but it was 0-3 eight minutes before the break when Thomas's shot ricocheted off the crossbar and the fortunate Zanzala before rolling past the helpless Trott.

And the England U20 goalkeeper was exposed again twice within six minutes at the start of the second half, saving well from Alex Babos and Thomas, only for Charles Vernam and Jayden Bogle to follow up on each occasion to score.

Despite being five goals down, the shell-shocked Hammers tried to give the scoreline some respectability, with Dan Kemp, Akinola and Haksabanovic all testing Barnes and Toni Martinez clipping the crossbar with a rasping 25-yarder.

Samuelsen was then denied by a superb save by the Derby goalkeeper before substitute Grady Diangana finally got the home side on the scoresheet with a spectacular flying volley from Domingos Quina's pass.

Martinez then flashed one shot narrowly over and saw another deflected inches wide, before Barnes again superbly denied Haksabanovic and Anthony Scully and Diangana clipped a shot against the woodwork, but Derby ultimately condemned Westley's side to their third Premier League 2 defeat of the season.

West Ham's young professionals, who were only promoted to Division 1 via the Play-Offs in the spring, have now won five of their ten league games this season and will seek win number six and a much-improved defensive display when they travel to Arsenal next Friday evening.

In the meantime, however, the U23s' attentions will turn to the Premier League International Cup and a mouth-watering clash with Portuguese giants Benfica, which will take place at Billericay Town's AGP Arena on Tuesday 21 November at 7pm. Tickets for that tie are available directly from the Essex club here.

West Ham United U23s: Trott, Johnson (Scully 64), Akinola, Pike (Coventry 50), Powell, Quina, Makasi, Kemp (Diangana 56), Samuelsen, Haksabanovic, Martinez
Subs not used: Matrevics (GK), Wells

Derby County U23s: Barnes, Bogle, Lowe, Thorne, Bateman, Wassall, Thomas (Walker 85), Guy, Zanzala, Vernam (Bird 75), Babos (MacDonald 69)
Subs not used: Ravas (GK), Jakobsen

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Marko Arnautovic: West Ham forward must be team player, says David Moyes
BBC.co.uk

West Ham boss David Moyes says club record signing Marko Arnautovic must be a team player to be part of his plans. The Hammers signed Arnautovic, 28, from Premier League rivals Stoke City in the summer for a fee that could reach £25m. He is yet to score, and was booed off by fans during the defeat by Brighton. "I can only go on what people tell me and they didn't think he has come up to the standard he set at Stoke," said Moyes, who will take charge of West Ham for the first time on Sunday.

The Hammers, who are 18th in the table, visit Watford (16:00 GMT).

Arnautovic's former team-mate Jon Walters told the BBC earlier this month that the Austrian forward is talented but there are question marks around his consistency. His form has prompted suggestions he could leave the Hammers in January, and Moyes says he is not alone in needing to work harder. "He has to be a team player, and the clips I have seen at times he's not looked a team player," said the Scot. "He wouldn't be the only one. They've got to be the ones who take a lot of responsibility for what their actions are now. "They can't always be saying 'the manager doesn't do this or the manager doesn't do that', come on let's see what you can do yourself."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Watford v West Ham United
SUN 19 NOV 2017PREMIER LEAGUE
16:00
Venue: Vicarage Road
BBC.co.uk

Watford head coach Marco Silva has plenty to ponder after three straight defeats and reported interest in him from Everton

TEAM NEWS

Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes is fit to face West Ham on Sunday despite being substituted with a gashed head in the defeat at Everton a fortnight ago.

Christian Kabasele has overcome a back injury and Sebastian Prodl and Roberto Pereyra could return, but Younes Kaboul remains out and Troy Deeney is banned.

New West Ham manager David Moyes will be without Javier Hernandez, who has a hamstring injury.

Michail Antonio is nursing a similar problem but could be involved.

Pablo Zabaleta returns from suspension and Winston Reid is available despite only returning to London on Friday after playing in both legs of New Zealand's World Cup play-off against Peru.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Steve Wilson: "So David Moyes is back in work for his 500th match as a Premier League manager - a tally only surpassed by Messrs Ferguson, Wenger and Redknapp.

"Moyes' determination to get back to basics is well founded. West Ham have been far less than the sum of their parts for too long, and the magic that Slaven Bilic brought to their last season at Upton Park had long since dissipated.

"Watford - a club never seemingly more than a month or two away from sacking a manager - are battling to prevent boss Marco Silva from being lured to Goodison Park.

"Silva has only been in charge for a dozen games, which include a 6-0 home defeat, a home defeat to a Championship side and losses in each of his last three games. He probably can't believe his luck."

Twitter: @Wilsonfooty

WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY

Watford head coach Marco Silva on his future: "I look at this situation like for some players when they play well, or somebody that the coach wants from another club.

"For me, now this is a case for the board and the owners to discuss the situation.

"If you want to talk to me about Everton, it's not the club where I work. It is a big club, nothing more.

"I respect what Everton want, I respect how Watford answer. I can't control this situation."

West Ham manager David Moyes: "I'm not one to criticise who was here before, but the players have told me what they think so we will give them what they think they need.

"They need to take responsibility. The players have been really committed to what we've asked them to do, they've grasped it and got on with it, and I think they've embraced it too.

"We've tried to put an awful lot of work into them over the past five or six days."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

It will be very interesting to see how David Moyes approaches his first game as West Ham boss. I am expecting to see a reaction from the Hammers because as a player you always want to impress a new manager and, although West Ham are in the bottom three, there is a lot of quality in their team.

Moyes will be expecting a committed performance and, if he gets one, I don't think West Ham will leave empty-handed.

Prediction: 1-1

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Watford's solitary home league win in the last 13 attempts against West Ham came in the Premier League two years ago (D4, L8).
However, Watford have won three and drawn two of the last six Premier League meetings, with their only defeat coming away in April 2016.
Watford

The Hornets have lost three consecutive Premier League games, having taken 15 points from their first eight (W4, D3, L1).
Watford's overall record and points tally is the same as at this stage of last season under Walter Mazzarri.
Their only home victory in seven games since April came against Arsenal a month ago (D2, L4).
Watford's tally of eight points lost from leading positions is the worst record in the division this season prior to the weekend.
They have also conceded an unrivalled 11 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season, including six from corners.
Richarlison has had 39 attempts on goal in the Premier League this season, second only to Harry Kane's 59 before the weekend. The Brazilian has scored with four of his seven efforts on target.
West Ham United

Their only Premier League away victory in the past 13 attempts came in May against Burnley (W1, D6, L6). They have drawn the last three.
Nine points after 11 games represents West Ham's second worst start to a Premier League season. They had seven points in 2010-11 and were ultimately relegated.
West Ham have the division's worst defensive record, with 23 goals against, and have conceded 87 league goals in 49 games since the start of last season.
The Hammers have covered less ground in the Premier League this season than any other team bar Manchester United, and they have made the fewest sprints.
This will be David Moyes' 500th match as a Premier League manager, a milestone only previously reached by Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger and Harry Redknapp. He has 196 victories, giving him a 39.3% win percentage.
Moyes only won 20 of his combined 85 matches in charge at Real Sociedad and Sunderland. His final victory as Sunderland manager was a 2-0 Premier League win at Marco Silva's Hull City on 6 May 2017.

SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-0 Probability of draw: 27%
Probability of home win: 48x% Probability of away win: 25%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale at the University of Liverpool that is used to predict the outcome of football matches.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Get your finger out, says Moyes
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 17th November 2017
By: Staff Writer

David Moyes has issued a warning to his underperforming stars ahead of his first match as West Ham boss. Moyes takes his new side, who are currently 18th in the Premier League to Watford on Sunday for their first test since he was installed as Slaven Bilic's replacement. And speaking at his first pre-match press conference, the 54-year-old Scot insisted that everyone in the squad needs to begin pulling their weight - including record signing, Marco Arnautovic.
"Some don't think he's come up to the standard he reached at Stoke City," Moyes told reporters. "From the clips I've seen of West Ham, he hasn't looked like a team player. But he wouldn't be the only one I'd say that about. "I'd say there's other players who are going to have to do the work for the team if they're going to be a part of it. I'm hoping that we have big determination in all the games, but I think we have to make sure than later on in games we're still in there and not doing anything stupid."

Moyes also revealed that he was particularly pleased with the effort and desire he'd seen from his new squad in the past week or so at Rush Green. "The players have been committed to what we've asked them to do," he added. "They grasped it and got on with their jobs. "You want players who are going to communicate and I've got to say, I've seen that here. That gives me hope because you need players to take ownership of what they're doing and their own personal performances. "I think they've embraced it, as well. I think they've shown a level of commitment in their training that means I'm not frightened to give them more. They've been very good with what they've taken in. "I've given them an awful lot of work in the last five or six days but on the other hand, we've got to make sure we save energy for the game as well."

West Ham face Watford at Vicarage Road on Sunday afternoon; the game kicks off at 4pm.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Watford v West Ham preview: David Moyes' West Ham reign begins
Last Updated: 17/11/17 3:05pm
SSN

David Moyes takes charge of West Ham for the first time this weekend against Watford at Vicarage Road on Sunday, live on Sky Sports Premier League.
The Scot replaced Slaven Bilic as West Ham's manager earlier this month and he will be looking to get his reign off to a winning start against Watford, with the club currently positioned in the relegation zone. Unlike their opponents, Watford are nearer the top of the Premier League table than the bottom in ninth but they have endured a difficult spell of late, losing each of their last three league matches. Despite their recent run of defeats, Marco Silva has attracted plenty of positive attention for the start he has made at Watford and the club knocked back an approach from Everton for his services during the international break.

Team news

Watford have a mounting injury list with Belgian defender Christian Kabasele the latest player to suffer a fitness setback. The Belgian is suffering from a back problem but is only rated as a slight doubt for the game.

Silva is also sweating on the fitness of Heurelho Gomes (head), Roberto Pereyra, Sebastian Prodl and Younes Kaboul (all hamstring), all of whom will be assessed pre-match. Nathaniel Chalobah, Isaac Success and Craig Cathcart (all knee) remain long-term absentees.

West Ham's top scorer this season Javier Hernandez is a major doubt to feature in Moyes' first game in charge as he suffered a hamstring injury during Mexico's 3-3 draw against Belgium last week.

James Collins (ankle) and Sam Byram (thigh) are both expected to miss out, while Jose Fonte (ankle) and Michail Antonio (rib) are rated doubtful.

Opta stats

Watford have lost only one of their last six Premier League games against West Ham, winning three and drawing two.
The Hammers have recorded just one victory in their last 13 away games in the Premier League (W1 D6 L6).
Watford have lost three consecutive Premier League games, this after losing just one of their first eight under Marco Silva (W4 D3 L1).
Following their 3-2 defeat last time out to Everton, Watford have lost the most points from leading positions in the English top-flight this season (8).
The Hornets (11) have conceded the most goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season (inc. penalties), including a competition-high six goals from corners.
Only in their last relegation campaign of 2010-11 (7) have West Ham had fewer points after 11 Premier League games than their nine points so far in this season.
Only Man Utd (1162.0 km) have covered less ground in the Premier League matches this season than West Ham (1162.6 km). The Hammers have also amassed the fewest total sprints in the competition this term (4942).

Paul Merson's prediction

David Moyes is in a catch 22 because the fans are going to be on his back from day one. I do not think he was a great appointment for the West Ham fans and to the end of the season does not give you much leeway, and where is the club going?

He will have to go out and have a go at Watford, if they sit back and draw 0-0, the fans will not be happy at all. And I think it will be a hard game as Watford are one of those teams that are alright if they are not expected to win, but when they are expected to win I think they crumble under the pressure. And again, I am going for a draw.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1 (Sky Bet odds 5/1)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Moyes wants end to past talk as he looks to West Ham's future
By Calum Wilson
Last Updated: 17/11/17 3:22pm
SSN

David Moyes says it is time to stop dwelling on his past as he prepares for his first game in charge of West Ham against Watford, live on Sky Sports on Sunday.
The Scotsman has had a trio of disappointing managerial experiences since leaving Everton in 2013, which saw him sacked by Manchester United after less than a year in charge before struggling at Real Sociedad and then Sunderland. Moyes was appointed as Slaven Bilic's replacement at West Ham with the struggling side positioned 18th in the table and the new manager has been tasked with guiding the Hammers to safety. Much of the discussion around the Scot's appointment has been centred on his most recent experiences, including being relegated with Sunderland last season, but Moyes says the focus should be on the games ahead. "I could go back again and I could talk about the old days," said Moyes. "I could talk about winning Manager of the Year three times in a row. I could talk about getting the biggest job in the world or I could talk about going and being one of the only British managers who've ever had a job in Spain. "I could do all that, but I think now it's time to stop talking like that and start talking about what's coming next."

Under Bilic, West Ham managed just two wins in the Premier League this season but Moyes refused to blame the Croatian for the slow start and instead is focusing on the reaction of his players. "I certainly wouldn't be one who would ever be critical of anybody before, but the players have told me what they think so we'll give them what they need to get better but they've got to be the ones who take a lot of the responsibility for what their actions are now," Moyes said. "They've already come in, they've locked the dressing room and they've said 'we better sort this out among ourselves'. I don't know any manager who doesn't want players like that. "You want players who take responsibility, who dig each other out and who communicate and I've seen that here. That gives me a big hope because you need players to take an ownership of what their performances."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
TURNING TIDE FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT?
By Goatygav 17 Nov 2017 at 08:00
WTID

It often seems that times are grim. Technically superior sides playing us off the park. Unimaginably highly paid players strolling around and putting little effort in. Little pride taken in club or country's good names by their respective boards/authority members. Power struggles and corruption at the top of the sport. Agents taking huge wedges of cash from, ultimately, the fans on the ground. Grass roots football hugely underinvested in compared to the affluence at the top of the game. It's tough being a football supporter nowadays. Always was but, in my opinion, there's even more to contend with when following the modern game. So when something positive happens it's worthy of focus and attention.

The last two England Internationals has seen the introduction of a number of players from the, highly successful, younger age groups. In a year that's seen England win the World Cups at U20 and U17 level more players are being introduced, by way, or not, of absence of players who might be considered first choice, and are gaining valuable experience.

You could argue that Germany are the most successful international side of all. Yes – Brazil have won 5 World Cups but Germany have more appearances in finals and haven't failed to be involved in, at least, a semi-final since '98 when they were knocked out in the quarters. Since that QF 'failure', which England would currently consider progress, in France they have introduced a system of production of top level youth athletes who also have the technical ability to compete with the best in the world. They have then brought these gifted players through to the full international squad together – creating a great understanding within their squad.

Back here in old Blighty youth development, at the very elite level, has seen some serious investment. The players who won those World Cups this year have all benefitted from St George's Park and Sir Trev deserves much acclaim for his work on the plan to get our elite youth competing with the best in the World both technically and athletically. I might be very critical of what little investment that there is below elite level but I can't argue with the results we're starting to see at the top of the game. Over the last two 'Friendlies', Gareth Southgate has begun to call in the likes of Dominic Solanke, Lewis Cook, Tammy Abraham and Angus Gunn, the excellent Jordan Pickford, who was outstanding against Germany, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who was England's MOTM against Germany and Joe Gomez who, in my opinion, had the best performance of all, over both games but, especially against Neymar and Brazil.

Ahh – but these are not top Premier League players I hear many say. How can they go on to compete with the world's best when they don't ply their trade in the top leagues? Well – if Gareth Southgate is going to be brave enough to put two or three youngsters in to the World Cup squad then two or three more in the Euro Qualifiers thereafter I believe it won't be long before those players are sought after by clubs in top European leagues, even if the likes of Chelski, Arsenal and Man City won't play them, and we're in the same situation that Germany have been for the last three World Cups – where they've made every single final.

I'd love to see Tony Martinez get a crack at the whip and Nathan Holland, who Moyes will have no doubt seen in his time at Everton, hopefully unleashed in one of the cups

I think it's likely that Declan Rice will feature a few more times this season but I'd love to see Tony Martinez get a crack at the whip
I was as annoyed and disheartened as the next Hammer when Tony Carr was released, then subsequently stripped of his 'Club Ambassador' role, by the board. Terry Westley was not a West Ham man before he joined the club and, understandably therefore, many fans didn't take to him immediately. Looking at the U23s (PL2) squad there are many players who are making strides in a competition which gives academy players much needed experience against men who have been full professionals for a number of years, in the Checkatrade Trophy, as well as the country's other elite academy teams. A glance at the results, and further viewing of some of the matches played in the accompanying videos, on the club site which you can find when you click here . shows some very encouraging signs. Considering the range of types of goals that Martinez scores, many on view at the development squad page, I believe he has all the attributes to make it as a top level striker. The image below is of a goal against Bristol Rovers that, when viewed on the video footage, shows TM's hunger and bravery after he was second favourite in a one on one with their keeper. West Ham's PL2 squad, unlike many in the league who field a number of first team players, is almost totally made up of academy products still to make their first team bow. David Moyes hinted, in his first press conference, that he is open to giving the kids a chance. I think it's likely that Declan Rice will feature a few more times this season but I'd love to see Tony Martinez get a crack at the whip and Nathan Holland, who Moyes will have no doubt seen in his time at Everton, hopefully unleashed in one of the cups when he returns from his hamstring injury (we would need to be the later rounds as he's reportedly out for 3 months). In time it would also be good to see Samuelson realise his undoubted potential. For me there are too many critics of how kids are not given experience against fully developed men. With the Checkatrade and PL2, along with U23 & U21's, I feel that things are heading in the right direction.

Considering the range and types of goals that Martinez scores, many on view at the development squad page, I believe he has all the attributes to make it as a top level striker.
At a time when many fans are asking if we'll ever see our youth players come through in numbers there would seem to be some light at the end of the tunnel. Let's hope so – both for England and for West Ham.

Lastly apologies for the similarities within this piece to SJ's yesterday (although it does come at the subject from some different angles). I started writing the article a few days ago and so the crossover wasn't intentional.

COYI! West Ham 4 The Cup!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Moyes has got some advice for £24million West Ham flop Marko Arnautovic
Arnautovic has flopped significantly since swapping Stoke for West Ham in a £24million deal this past summer
The Mirror
ByNeil McLemanSports Writer
15:32, 17 NOV 2017

David Moyes has told Marko Arnautovic he needs to be a team player to play for West Ham United. The Austrian flop has yet to score a goal or provide an assist since his £24million summer signing from Stoke. And before his first match in charge of the Hammers at Watford on Sunday, Moyes revealed he has already spoken to Arnautovic and told him he wants more. "I can't comment on the earlier games. "I can only go on what people have told me and they didn't think he has come up to the standard he set at Stoke City. I watched him a lot at Stoke. "I thought he looked like the sort of player you would never be keen to play against, if you're a right full-back because of his power and strength and what he can do. "But he also has to be a team player. "The clips I have seen at times, he has not looked a team player. He would not be the only one I would say that about. "The other players also have to do the work for the team if they want to be part of it."
Moyes will be in charge of his 500th Premier League game at Watford on Sunday – a mark achieved previously by only Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger and Hary Redknapp. The former Everton, Manchester United and Sunderland boss said: "It will become harder and harder to get to those levels. "I don't necessarily take my own individual milestones as anything that important. Maybe after you finish when you look back. "I'd love to get to 1,000 games. It is a great achievement to manage 1,000 games at no matter what level."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com