Hammers to head for Schalke 04 Cup
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will take part in a prestigious four-team tournament in Germany in August
11.04.2014
West Ham United are delighted to announce that the Club will take part in the prestigious four-team Schalke 04 Cup in Germany in August. The Hammers will join host club Schalke 04, Spanish Primera Division side Malaga CF and fellow Barclays Premier League outfit Newcastle United in the tournament, which will be held at the VELTINS-Arena over the weekend of Saturday 2/Sunday 3 August. West Ham will be roared on by thousands of supporters in Germany during the competition, which will be held in a stadium which hosted the 2004 UEFA Champions League final, five matches at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and has a capacity of 61,482, a retractable roof and retractable pitch. Two matches will be held on each day of the tournament, with a special points system in place. Three points will be awarded to the winner of a match, while if a game ends in a draw, it will go straight to a penalty shoot-out, with the winner receiving two points. Whichever club accumulates the most points in two matches will be declared the champions.
While West Ham have met Newcastle 125 times in their history, the competition will potentially see the Club meet both Schalke 04 and Malaga CF for the first time.
Ticket details for West Ham fans are yet to be confirmed and will follow on whufc.com in due course. The competition marks the third summer in succession that West Ham will have visited Germany as part of their pre-season schedule. In 2012, the Hammers toured the country, taking on FC Rot-Weiß Erfurt, Dynamo Dresden and Energie Cottbus, while 2013 saw Big Sam's side face Bundesliga trio FSV Mainz 05, Hamburger SV and Eintracht Braunschweig.
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Carr predicts City challenge
WHUFC.com
Tony Carr MBE believes the Under-18s will face their toughest challenge of the season on Saturday
11.04.2014
Academy Director Tony Carr MBE is expecting the Under-18s to face their toughest challenge of the season when they take on Manchester City on Saturday morning. The Citizens have been the dominant force in the Barclays U18 Premier League North section this season, currently sitting in top spot with only five defeats from their 28 league fixtures. Steve Potts' team have been flying high themselves in the South section where they are still in the hunt for a top-two spot and Carr believes Saturday's match represents a huge test. "We're hoping to reverse the last couple of results and we're looking forward to going up to play Manchester City. They're the team of the moment in terms of youth and first team because of the profile they've got now and the backing behind them. They've won the northern league so it will be a big test for us. "It will be as tough as any game that we've played this season. There's an U21 game on the Friday, which obviously takes players from the squad and makes life a little bit more difficult. "We're hoping that the young players that we pick to go up there can go and do the job and we're really looking forward to the challenge."
The Hammers have hit a rough patch recently, losing their last three league matches having previously suffered only one defeat in their previous 17 league encounters. That superb run has kept the U18s in second place as they look to secure a spot in the season ending Play-Offs, and Carr believed their dip in form is part and parcel of football. "I think they're disappointed because obviously they were playing well. They can't win every game they play, that's just the way the game is. "You can't win every game and the boys had been on a fantastic run and now that we've had a couple of setbacks we have to stay focused and put on a good performance at the weekend."
The promotion to the Development Squad of several U18 stalwarts in the shape of Josh Cullen, Kyle Knoyle, Reece Burke, Jordan Brown, Lewis Page and Jamie Harney has forced Potts to promote players from the Club's schoolboy section in order to fill the void. Carr feels that those players who have come into the side need time to adapt to the step-up, but feels they will need to learn quickly as the season draws to a close. "It's a massive learning curve with the pace of the game, the physicality and it's a big test which isn't just about your footballing ability. "You have to be able to cope with all the other things that get thrown at you. Players have to be more tactically aware and there are lots of different challenges for a young player but it's a good experience for them. "That can only be good for their development and for their learning, but in this day you have to learn quickly and you have to take opportunities when they come.
"When it comes you've got to be ready to take it. There's no sentiment in the game, you've got to be good enough, and that's the bottom line."
The 63-year-old also admitted he'll be looking for the squad to give their all when they take to the pitch against the Sky Blues. "I'm not looking for a reaction that we wouldn't want in any other game. Give your all, be committed, go and enjoy it and let's see where it takes us."
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Johnson eyes Arsenal repeat
WHUFC.com
2011 League Cup winner Roger Johnson would love to pull off another surprise win over Arsenal
11.04.2014
Matches against Arsenal will always carry special resonance for West Ham United defender Roger Johnson. The centre back, currently on loan at the Boleyn Ground from Wolverhampton Wanderers, was part of the Birmingham City side which defeated the Gunners in the 2011 Carling Cup final. It meant the Ashford-born defender tasted success at Wembley at the second attempt, following an FA Cup final defeat for Cardiff against Portsmouth in 2008. Overcoming Arsene Wenger's side ranks as a career highlight for Johnson, who would love to notch another victory over the north London side on Tuesday. "Arsenal are Arsenal, everyone knows what they're about," he said. "They've been a bit hit and miss this season with results - they've had some good wins and some sloppy losses and they are where they are in the league. "I do think they're very beatable, as we saw the other day against Everton, and I have fond memories from the League Cup final in 2011, and the other clubs I've been at seem to have done well against them. "The cup final was a brilliant day and one I'll never forget. It's something I'll cherish because they had a great team at the time, they were doing well in the league and we were sort of written off. "I thought we deserved the result on the day, to beat someone like that makes it mean more too. They had Samir Nasri, Robin van Persie and the like, they had a great side out.
"We had a great run and we went into the final with the approach that it was about what happened on the day. Every game is on the day, so there's no reason why West Ham can't go to the Emirates and get a result on Tuesday too. "Yes, we'll be underdogs because we're playing Arsenal at Arsenal, but look at the Liverpool game the other day. They are top of the league and I thought we matched them all over really and should have come out of the game with a result."
Johnson was worked his way back into the Hammers' squad in recent weeks, coming off the bench in the victories over Hull City and Sunderland. The 30-year-old is delighted to be featuring again in the top flight following a difficult spell at Wolves and would love to contribute to more success over the final five gamea of the campaign. He added: "I came here wanting to play as many games as I possibly could. It was an opportunity for me to come in and play in the elite league and when I have done I don;t think I've done myself any harm. "Just being amongst it is what I came here for, and I've loved every minute of it. If I can get a few more games in between now and the end of the season and try to stick in the manager's head for something next season that would be great."
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Dev Squad 0-1 Blackburn Rovers FT
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Blackburn Rovers at Rush Green
11.04.2014
DEVELOPMENT SQUAD v BLACKBURN ROVERS
BARCLAYS U21 PREMIER LEAGUE
RUSH GREEN STADIUM
FRIDAY 11 APRIL 2014
REFEREE: CHRISTOPHER POLLARD
KICK-OFF: 2PM
iPHONE APP I TWITTER I FACEBOOK I PODCAST I YOUTUBE
Full-time: It's all over. The Hammers go down to a goal just past the hour mark from Blackburn captain Darragh Lenihan. It was a frustrating afternoon for the home side whose best chance saw Jordan Brown bring the best out of David Raya with a low shot. Defeat is a big blow to the hosts' chances of securing a top-eleven finish in this season's Barclays U21 Premier League. They now head to Sunderland for their last game of the season desperate for a win.
91: Knoyle hoists a high ball into the box, but no one is anywhere near close enough to challenge Raya as he claims the ball.
90: There will be three minutes added on for the Hammers to try and find a goal.
89: The hosts are stuck in their own half as Blackburn try to run down the clock. Preston recieves a yellow card for kicking the ball away after it rolls out of play and rightly so.
87: Tanner slides in on Fanimo to give away a free-kick. Whithead will take it from the halfway line. Harney meets it on the edge of the area but it hits the top of his head and slides out for a goal kick.
85: Whitehead tosses the ball into the box, but it's just not falling for the home side today and a defender is first to the ball to clear.
83: Bywater slams the ball into the net, but the whistle has already gone after Mavila is adjudged to have handled the ball in the build-up.
81: Into the last ten minutes we go. West Ham need to find inspiration from somewhere if they're going to get anything from the match.
79: Preston spurns a gilt-edged chance to wrap this game up. The striker is unmarked in the middle but he sends a glacing header wide of the far post. A let-off for the home side there.
77: A spot of confusion here as the referee gives Blackburn a free-kick before changing his mind after ten or so seconds. The Hammers can't take advantage though, as Burke ends up in an offside position from the ball in.
75: Laidler goes for a spectacular volley as the ball sits up nicely for him inside the Hammers' half. It's never on target, however, and Howes watches it sail over his goal.
73: Mavila does superbly to win a corner after chasing down Fanimo's through ball. Bywater takes, but Doyle is there at the near post to head clear.
71: Raya flies out of his goal like Superman to punch clear Mavila's corner. I'm sure this 'keeper has a mistake in him somewhere along the line.
69: Crash! The bar is still shaking after Preston hits a thunderous half-volley. The ball ricochets to Wall who has a half-volley himself and forces Howes into an excellent finger tip save. It's all happening here!
68: Bywater replaces Sadlier and immediately concedes a free-kick for an adjudged high foot.
67: Laidler finds himself with space inside the Hammers' half and decides to unleash a shot. He strikes it well but too well as it clears the goal by a distance.
65: Brown is felled as he tursn Doyle superbly and beats Bauress before the latter brings him down. Haycock makes his second change bringing on Burke for Lletget.
63: Mavila replaced Cole in the aftermath of the Rovers' goal. The winger will certainly provide an injection of pace into the side.
61 Goal: Lenihan heads Blackburn in front from Bauress' free-kick. The centre-back rose highest to send the ball past Howes and just inside the far post.
59: Nathan Mavila is out of his track suit and looks likely to be joining the action shortly.
57: It's only two exhibitions of great goalkeeping which keeps the score level here. There's already been more action in the secind half than there was in the first.
55: Cullen concedes a free-kick in an identical position to the one Knoyle gave away and has his name taken by the referee. This time Tanner goes for the far corner and Howes dives to his left to make a fantastic finger tip save. Top keeping!
53: Close! Raya makes a superb diving save as Brown drives a shot across the keeper. The stopper gets down low to palm it just out of the reach of Cole at the back post and away to safety.
51: Knoyle has had a torrid afternoon against Wall this afternoon and is penalised in a dangerous position as he grapples with the winger. Tanner lines up a shot and curls his effort harmlessly over Howes' crossbar.
49: Cole races into the box and delivers a teasing ball across the face of goal. Sadlier is busting a gut to reach the back post but even with a slide he is unable to reach the ball.
48: It's been a lively start to the second period by the visitors with Harney again on his toes to deny Wall.
46: The second half begins at Rush Green.
Half-time: The minute of injury time passes without incident, much the same as the whole of the first half. There's been very little action to get excited about with Joe Cole's effort after one minute the best either side has mustered so far. Let's hope for better in the second half.
46: One minute of added time to be played.
45: Cole is trying his best to spark some life into the game, but the final ball has not been up to what either manager would expect from their sides.
43: Fanimo yells in anguish as he balloons a cross over the waiting players in the box, over the goal and over the stadium wall. That sums up the game so far.
41: As we tick towards the break the game has quietened down, with both sides seemingly nulifying the others threat.
39: The Hammers are just failing to get out of second gear here as they search for a way through a stubborn Blackburn defence.
37: Rittenberg is the man chosen to replace Green on the right-hand side of the Blackburn midfield.
36: A welcome break for some of the players is provided as Green stays down and requires treatment. It doesn't look too good and he'll have to be replaced.
34: The away side nearly profit from Knoyle's loose pass as the full-back gives the ball away in the opposition's half. They break with intensity and slide Laidler through on goal but he fires a first time shot to the left of Howes' goal.
32: The crowd ring show their appreciation for Cullen after the tenacious midfielder tracks Wall a good 40 yards before executing a perfect slide tackle which wins his side possession.
30: Lletget strikes the first meaningful effort since Cole's early shot. The American picks the ball up on the edge of the box and takes a touch before sending a shot just over the bar.
28: The Blackburn keeper thinks he's a striker as he exceutes a nice Cruyff turn to get past the attentions of Brown. It's not the first time he's taken a chance at the back and they may yet prove to be an area for the Hammers to exploit.
26: Laidler is penalised for a late challenge on Knoyle as the full-back attempts to find Cole. Whithead takes the free-kick but floats it way too high and it's easy pickings for Raya.
24: Harney makes another well-timed interception to stop a Blackburn attack. The defender has so far been on top of his game to snuff out several attacks.
22: After a slow start Blackburn have begun to enjoy more possession than the Hammers and, at present, are enjoying the greater attacking threat.
20: Potts concedes a corner as the Hammers are forced to backtrack following a nice Blackburn move which resulted in Laidler's cross. The corner is met by an attacker and looks to be heading on target before it's blocked before reaching Howes.
18: Harney and Cullen both slide in to make crucial tackles this time as a number of Rovers' players line up for a shot. Cullen sticks his head in bravely to deny Laidler on one of the attempted shots.
16: Harney draws warm applause from the stands as he slides in to deny Wall. His tackle had to be perfect as the winger was inside the box. Luckily it was.
14: Cole whips in a free-kick from the right-hand side after Sadlier is felled. The ball in finds Potts who sends a downward header wide of the target.
12: Whitehead tracks Wall all the way back as he looks to stop the cross. The winger does, however, manage to squeeze a cross in but it sails harmlessly over the bar.
10: Lletget is found by Fanimo on the box but the midfielder isn't allowed to turn and he lays the ball back to Fanimo. The left-back delivers a ball into the box but by that point everyone has pushed out and the keeper is left to gather untroubled.
8: Cullen is penalised softly after getting across Wall's path as he looks to break over the halfway line.
6: Whitehead scuffs an attempted volleyed clearance and concedes a corner. A combination of Harney and Potts are on hand to clear from the corner as Wall tries to get a header on target.
4: What a start that would have been for the Hammers who haven't let their visitors out of their own half yet.
2: The Hammers almost take an immediate lead as Cole plays a one-two with Sadlier before firing a right-foot shot just wide. Close!
1 min: We're under-way at Rush Green as the Hammers go in search of an important three points.
1:57pm: The teams are summoned from their dressing rooms and follow as the referee leads the way onto the pitch. After the handshakes we'll be under-way here.
1:50pm: Joe Cole is looking in fine form as he places shot after shot into the bottom corner of the net during the warm-up. A sight for all West Ham fans to savour.
1:45pm: There's a healthy crowd of Hammers' fans at Rush Green and there's still time and space for plenty more to arrive.
1:25pm: The Hammers join their counter parts on the pitch now, with Joe Cole embracing Hendry and having a chat before he jogs off to join the rest of the team.
1:20pm: Blackburn players are out to begin their warm-up with a familiar face amongst their coaching staff. Former Rovers defender Colin Hendry is still sporting his long blonde hair even now as he puts his players through their paces.
1:05pm: This game was originally scheduled for a 7pm kick-off but with the easter holidays and the glorious sunshine we're now set-up for a great afternoon of football. There is still plenty of time for you to get down to Rush Green. Entry is free for Season Ticket Holders, £3 Adults and £1 Concessions.
The Development squad return to Rush Green for the last time this season as they take on Blackburn Rovers in their penultimate Barclays Under-21 Premier League fixture hoping that home comforts can help them secure a much-needed victory. Nick Haycock underlined the importance of three points from this match in order to help the Hammers secure a top-eleven finish which would guarantee them a place in the top tier of U21 football next season.
In order to help them achieve that, Haycock will again be able to call on the services of England midfielder Joe Cole, who played the full 90 minutes during the side's 2-0 defeat against Bolton Wanderers on Monday. The ninth place Hammers will be going all out against Rovers, who have endured a miserable season which has seen them win only two league matches all season, leaving them bottom of the table.
West Ham United: Sam Howes, Kyle Knoyle, Matthias Fanimo, Daniel Whitehead, Dan Potts, Jamie Harney, Sebastian Lletget, Josh Cullen, Jordan Brown, Joe Cole, Kieran Sadlier
Subs: Reece Burke, Gines Guzman, Nathan Mavila, Kieran Bywater, Amos Nasha
Blackburn Rovers: David Raya, Jack Doyle, Will Beesley, Hyuga Tanner, Louis Laing, Darragh Lenihan, Devarn Green, Bradley Bauress, Jordan Preston, Jordan Laidler, Luke Wall
Subs: Dean Rittenberg, Matt Urwin, Sam Lavelle, Deniz Pero, Aaron Tumwa
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West Ham to play in German tournament
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 11th April 2014
By: Staff Writer
It has been confirmed that West Ham will face German side Schalke, Spanish outfit Malaga and Newcastle United in a two-day competition this summer. The four teams are set to meet on the weekend of August 2/3 to do battle for the Schalke 04 Cup. Although full details are yet to be confirmed, the matches - two on Saturday and two on Sunday - will kick off at 3pm and 5pm local time. To determine the winners, teams will be awarded three points for a win whilst drawn matches will end in a penalty shootout, ensuring that draws are not possible. Tickets for the weekend will be priced between €10 and €49 for a day ticket - presumably for entrance to both matches. All games are to be played at Schalke's Veltins Arena, a 62,000-capacity stadium which opened in 2001.
The tournament will be the first time West Ham have met either Schalke or Malaga in a competitive fixture.
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Ross McCormack on West Ham Radar Again
By Liam Newman , Featured Columnist Apr 11, 2014
BleacherReportc.om
West Ham United are being lined up with a summer move for Leeds United star Ross McCormack. The Hammers had been heavily linked to McCormack in January but never made an official approach. However, sources at talkSPORT have suggested the Premier League club could be ready to renew its interest with a summer bid for the Leeds striker. With Leeds being condemned to another season in the Championship, along with the uncertainty around Elland Road following Massimo Cellino's recent takeover, the Scotland international would be forgiven for seeking a new challenge in a higher league. For Sam Allardyce, the addition of McCormack would provide welcomed competition to the injury-prone Andy Carroll. In Carroll's absence, West Ham's lack of goals was severe. Despite boasting 13 clean sheets this season, the Hammers have only recently secured their place in next year's Premier League and will be desperate to avoid a similar fate next year. West Ham's problems in the attacking third got so bad that Allardyce was forced into re-signing former player Carlton Cole just months after declaring the striker surplus to requirements at Upton Park. The 30-year-old's return of six Premier League goals makes him the club's second-leading scorer this season, just one behind Kevin Nolan, who is set to be the named the Hammers most prolific marksman for a second year running with seven strikes.
McCormack would be a welcomed addition to the Hammers' setup, but it would be a signing that carries an element of risk. Despite an incredible return of 28 goals for Leeds this season, the Leeds captain has never played in the Premier League and also has a relatively poor record of just two strikes in 10 senior international appearances for Scotland. Staying in the Premier League next season is imperative for the Hammers, especially as they are set for their move to the Olympic Stadium in just two years' time. Perhaps McCormack will be there to help fire the goals that will ensure they bring top-flight football to their new home.
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West Ham hold talks with PSG star
Date: 11th April 2014 at 6:27 pm
Written by: Irons Maiden | ForeverWestHam.com
The ever reliable @ExWHUemployee has revealed on Twittersphere that we've held talks with Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Jeremy Menez. The 26-year-old can play on the left or right hand side of an attacking trio and, up until this season, was a key player for the Ligue 1 side. The Frenchman's best return came in his debut season for PSG when he notched 7 goals – six more than our current wingers Stewart Downing and Matt Jarvis, combined for this season.
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To pay or not to pay...
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 11th April 2014
By: Raedwulf
And now for something rather different! Here's an interesting snippet in the BBC's Gossip Column, Thursday 10th.
"The law should be changed to force football clubs to pay the full cost of policing matchdays, according to one of the country's most senior police officials. "
The article linked is subscription only, but it begins thus: "London's deputy mayor for policing, said it was wrong that Barclays Premier League and Sky Bet Footbal League clubs were able to spend huge transfer fees on star players but baulked at the cost of paying for police officers to control crowds outside their grounds."
And a longer BBC article continues: "Official police policy is to only charge for policing within grounds and the area immediately around it. But ACC Andy Holt told BBC Radio 5 live clubs should pay the full cost of managing games as trouble spreads to other city areas and transport hubs.
The Football League said taxes are paid to cover policing costs. It said football fans should not "pay twice for policing."
My initial reaction was also "Well, it's the police's job to police!", but that was quickly followed by "Hang on a sec..." To the Football League, and by extension the Premier League, it must be answered, "Why should those with no interest in football pay even once?" Football is hugely wealthy, and the whole of the country is paying, directly or indirectly for the associated costs.
From a little research, it seems that the Met Police could recoup only £2.7m out of £7.2m spent in the 12/13 tax year. In 10/11, when there were five Premier League London clubs (no Palace or QPR), the costs for the top flight were estimated at £3.29m; those recovered only £2.3m.
In London as a whole there were, last season, six Prem, three Championship (Watford seem to be just outside the MP area), two League One and three League Two clubs. The costs, as the 10/11 Prem figures would suggest, are proportionately lower as you drop below the top division.
Ultimately, though, who should be paying?
On the face of it, that £4.5m discrepancy between costs and money recouped in 12/13 would pay for a first-choice defender, or a maybe-first choice midfielder for a club like ours. But that £4.5m is spread across 14 clubs & four divisions. (I'm also making the assumption that those 12/13 figures do only cover the top four tiers.)
The 10/11 figures, which come from a Freedom of Information request to the Met, are broken down by club. In our case the Est./Rec. costs are £592k/£436k, over 27 home matches. So the discrepancy amounts to less than £6k per match. The biggest for that season, pro-rata, is Chelsea at a little over £16k per game.
Even if a Tier four club is struggling along, surely a Premier League club can afford to pay its own way? But should it? It's far from a simple question.
Businesses pay for policing through business rates. We all know, at least anecdotally, about trouble outside pubs and nightclubs, especially at the weekend. Should they also pay special rates? What's the difference in rates, in turnover, in profit between a Premier League football club, the nightclub or a pub up the road?
What about the general store owner in Green Street who hates football? He, for sure, doesn't want to pay twice. He doesn't attend matches, he already pays his business rates, his business also suffers from more petty crime, locals might avoid Green St on match days and if there's any REAL trouble, hooliganism...
On the other hand, for 27 matches in 10/11, how many more magazines, packets of fags, bottles of pop, packets of crisps, bars of chocolate and so on does he sell? And for the local football-hating inhabitant? Even if they only indirectly benefit, more money is coming into their locality, and that, in theory at least, will benefit them.
My gut reaction is that the top two tiers, at least, ought to be able to fully pay their own way. I'm sure any astute businessman could get extra mileage out of doing so, too. I've no particular opinion on the matter, but it's an interesting question, don't you think?
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Hammers set £3million asking price
Date: 11th April 2014 at 5:33 pm
Written by: Irons Maiden | ForeverWestHam.com
Ricardo Vaz Te scoring against Manchester CityDespite only recently signing a new one-year-deal, Football Direct News are reporting that West Ham could offload Ricardo Vaz Te, this summer.
The West Ham attacker nearly joined Norwich City in a deadline day move last summer transfer window but that fell through.
Vaz Te hasn't been able to cement his first-team place for West Ham due to injuries. However, when the Portguese ace has played, many fans believe it has been out of position, with some calling for RVT to be deployed upfront during Andy Carroll's absence.
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Friday, April 11
Daily WHUFC News - 11th April 2014
Chadwell Chatter
Ricardo Vaz Te pens the latest blog for whufc.com on the recent Open Training day at the Boleyn Ground
11.04.2014
Hello all,
It was great to meet the fans at our Open Training day earlier this week.
For me, personally, these days are always fun and to see the kids enjoy themselves is great. For us players, to make their day by signing autographs or having our pictures taken with them is a chance for the football club to give something back as thanks for their loyal support.
It's great that the fans get the opportunity to come to the Boleyn Ground and watch us train. Last season we did it once, but this season we've done it twice now so for the fans, they are over the moon as they don't get to meet the whole squad in that way all the time.
I personally really enjoy these open training days, and to see that the fans are happy makes me happy too!
It's great that we get to interact with our loyal fans and the atmosphere was fantastic, even if I was concentrating on training! When I am training, I'm concentrating on training, but after training I listened to the music and it was lovely.
The Season Ticket Holders are the backbone of the Club. Season upon season they have seen all the ups and all the lows of the football club, but they stick by us and they are very important for that reason.
I think the open day is a chance for the club to show some appreciation for the fans' terrific support, and when we get to interact with them I take great joy. It's a great way to give something back. It shows that we really do appreciate their input.
I think that at this football club, fans will come anyway as West Ham fans are West Ham all the way through! I remember when I first came here when we were in the Championship and it was a full crowd every game. Even when we played away, sometimes we had more supporters there than the home team! That shows how key the supporters are for our success.
I believe West Ham fans are very loyal and they definitely have one of the most passionate sets of supporters that I've played in front of. They are very loud and aggressive but all good! They are not shy about their emotions; if they are angry they will show it, and if they are happy they will show it!
As a player you want a reaction from the fans and for their passion to come out, and for example, when we were winning at Sunderland with 15-20 minutes remaining of the match, their fans went home. West Ham fans might have a go at you, but they certainly back us all the way. They will stick by the team; they will cheer and support you. They will believe all the way to the end and stick with the club. I do not think anyone can say otherwise.
Thanks as ever for your support!
Come on you Irons!
Vaz
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On this day - 11 April
David Cross scored four in a resounding win against Grimsby Town on this day in 1981
11.04.2014
Classic match
Grimsby Town 1-5 West Ham United
Division Two
11 April 1981
David Cross enjoyed an afternoon to remember at Blundell Park on this day in 1981, as the Lancashire-born forward bagged himself four goals in a 5-1 win.
John Lyall's Hammers were, by this time, well on course for the Division Two title and victory here saw them extend their lead to eleven points at the top with just five games to play.
Cross, meanwhile, was in the midst of his most prolific campaign, finishing the season with 33 goals to show for his 60 appearances in all competitions. Incidentally, he would repeat the four-goal feat just five months later, in a 4-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.
Cross' impressive haul and a Geoff Pike strike helped the Hammers prolong an unbeaten run dating back to 27 December 1980, one that stood at a formidable 18 games come the season's end.
West Ham went on to win the league at a canter, finishing top by some 13 points and in doing so ending a three-year stay in the second tier.
Complete record - 11 April
2009 Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 West Ham United (Premier League)
1998 West Ham United 0-0 Derby County (Premier League)
1993 West Ham United 3-0 Leicester City (Division One)
1992 West Ham United 4-0 Norwich City (Division One)
1990 West Ham United 4-1 Bournemouth (Division Two)
1989 West Ham United 1-2 Middlesbrough (Division One)
1987 Everton 4-0 West Ham United (Division One)
1981 Grimsby Town 1-5 West Ham United (Division Two)
1977 West Ham United 1-0 Norwich City (Division One)
1964 Fulham 2-0 West Ham United (Division One)
1960 Wolverhampton Wanderers 5-0 West Ham United (Division One)
1959 Leicester City 1-1 West Ham United (Division One)
1955 Fulham 0-0 West Ham United (Division Two)
1953 West Ham United 0-1 Huddersfield Town (Division Two)
1952 West Ham United 2-1 Notts County (Division Two)
1950 Coventry City 5-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
1939 Bradford Park Avenue 1-2 West Ham United (Division Two)
1936 Bradford City 3-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
1931 West Ham United 3-2 Blackpool (Division One)
1925 Notts. County 4-1 West Ham United (Division One)
Played 20, Won 8, Drawn 3, Lost 9, Scored 29, Conceded 34
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'We need to win this game'
Nick Haycock says the Development Squad will be aiming to secure a top-half finish with victory over Blackburn
10.04.2014
West Ham United will seek to improve their chances of a top-half Barclays U21 Premier League finish when they host Blackburn Rovers on Friday.
The Hammers welcome Blackburn to Rush Green for a 2pm kick-off on Friday knowing that three points will all but ensure they end the regular season in the top eleven - meaning they will be in the top division when the league splits in two for the 2014/15 campaign.
Development Squad manager Nick Haycock has challenged his squad - which will again include England midfielder Joe Cole - to rise to the occasion and chalk up their tenth win in 20 matches.
"We need to win at least one of our two remaining matches to get a top-eleven finish, because it would be disappointing to miss out on that having been up there near the top of the table for the majority of the season," Haycock confirmed.
"We will again have young players being given their opportunity on Friday, which can lead to more inconsistent performances, but they have shown that they have the talent and ability to win matches at this level.
"We will go into the game with a positive approach, as we always do, and if we can play the way we did in the first half at Bolton and take our chances, we can win the game. The lads are certainly upbeat about their chances.
"They have the chance on Friday to get the three points and to establish themselves in the top half of the table - a position their performances throughout the season have warranted."
Haycock says the presence of Cole in the starting XI will again serve to inspire the young professionals and scholars involved against Blackburn.
"We will have a similar squad to Monday, which means Joe will again be involved to get him some more valuable minutes on the pitch. He will give us the experience that is needed to help the younger players to achieve the victory that we need."
Kick-off at Rush Green is at 2pm on Friday, with admission priced at £3 Adults and £1 Concessions. Parking is free of charge.
The Development Squad complete their 2013/14 season slate of Barclays U21 Premier League fixtures when they travel to Sunderland on Thursday 17 April.
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ABDUL RAZAK LEAVES WEST HAM AFTER UNSUCCESSFUL LOAN
By Sean Whetstone
11 Apr 2014 at 08:05
West Ham till I die
Ivory Coast international Abdul Razak has left West Ham United after an unsuccessful loan from Russian Premier League side Anzhi Makhachkala.
The 21-year-old midfielder began his career with Manchester City and has been capped five times by Ivory Coast but he has failed to make anny impact at Chadwell heath. In 2011 age 17 Razak was given a surprise debut for Man City first team coming on as a substitute for David Silva in the final minutes of the Premier League game against West Bromwich Albion on 5 February. His second game for the Manchester City first team was against Wigan Athletic on 10 September 2011 after he was substituted on for Yaya Touré in the 80th minute of the match.Razak has also spent time on loan at Portsmouth, Brighton and Charlton while with Manchester City and was previously part of the Crystal Palace youth setup.
I hear unsubstantiated claims that Razak was regularly late for training and lacked good discipline. Razak was Sam Allardyce’s fourth signing in the January transfer window.
Since joining West Ham at the end of January Razak has managed just one appearance in the development squad. He played in the development match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on 10th February which we lost 2-1. He managed just 58 minutes on the pitch that day before being substituted. He was also an un-used substitute for the West Ham Development squad v Southampton on 14th February but after that failed to make the development squad. It appears his 15 minutes of fame achieved in 2011 is long gone,
It is unknown what loan fee or wages we paid Anzhi Makhachkala.and/or Razak during his short stay with us.
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NOSTALGIA SERIES; ALVIN MARTIN
By Tony Hanna
10 Apr 2014 at 16:16
West Ham till I die
Born in Lancashire on the 29th July in 1958, Alvin Martin was to become one of the finest defenders in the clubs history. In his early years he was a schoolboy at Everton and he went on to trial for two weeks at QPR. Rangers were undecided at the end of the fortnight and wanted Alvin to trial for a further week but he told them he was going on holiday. In reality, Alvin was off to West Ham for a two week trial and his determination paid off when Ron Greenwood duly offered him an apprentice contract. He played in the FA Youth cup final in 1975 and then signed as a professional on the 29th July 1976. Alvin had to patient again as his first team debut was nearly two years later as a sub away to Villa in 1978. The centre half was to go on and make the position his for many years and he played his last game for West Ham some 18 years later in May 1996. During his career he won the Hammer of the Year in 1980 and again two years later in 1982.
Alvin played 593 games for West Ham and experienced many highs and lows during this time. His first season, where he only made five appearances, was the 1977/78 relegation season. His next four seasons at the club were spent in Division two. However, as we all know it was during this period that the club won the 1980 FA Cup final and the following season played in the League Cup finals and the ECWC run. He was also a stalwart in defence when the Hammers won the second division title in 1981. His form was outstanding and Ron Greenwood selected him for England in May 1981 in a match against Brazil despite Alvin playing in the second division at the time. Agonisingly, an injury ruled him out of the World Cup in Spain the following year and he would be sorely missed by England.
In the clubs most successful league season ever, 1985/86, Alvin played in 40 of the 42 matches and the Hammers went on to finish 3rd in the top flight. He even notched a hat trick in the 8-1 romp against Newcastle. This was a rare enough feat in itself, but because of a string of injuries to the goalkeepers in that game, he actually scored each goal against a different custodian. The England manager in 1986 was Bobby Robson and he included Alvin for the World Cup squad in Mexico. He played in the 3-0 win against Paraguay in the group stages but was dropped for the “Hand of God” game against Argentina which saw the side eliminated. Alvin won 17 full England caps and can consider himself hard done by not to have won many more. Tough in the tackle, good in the air, Alvin was strong tactically too and could play the ball on the floor. He had the all round game.
During his prime years, Spurs made three attempts to sign him and Arsenal also had an offer rejected. Alvin was aware of the approaches but was to say “it didn’t matter anyway as long as John Lyall was my manager. He had known me since I was sixteen and taken me under his wing. He wasn’t just a manager figure to me, he was more like a father figure”
Alvin again remained loyal to West Ham when we were relegated in 1989 and he helped the club bounce back in 1991. His 21 years of service to the club was rewarded by the awarding of two testimonials for his benefit, against Spurs in 1988 and against Chelsea in 1995. Only the player who spent much of his career next to Alvin in the centre of defence, Billy Bonds, has achieved the same recognition. Alvin, or “Stretch” as he was known, played three seasons in the newly formed Premier League and finally played his last game for West Ham in a 1-1 draw at home to Sheffield Wednesday on the 5th May 1996 aged 37. After leaving West Ham he played 17 games for Leyton Orient before going on to manage Southend for two seasons.
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IS PHIL BARDSLEY TO SIGN ON A BOSMAN DEAL?
By S J Chandos
10 Apr 2014 at 08:00
West Ham till I die
It has been reported that West ham are interested in signing Sunderland right-back Phil Bardsley this summer. Bardsley is a strong running full-back, who is strong in the tackle and has a powerful shot. He is in the final year of his current contract and will shortly to be available on a Bosman deal. It is known that Bardsley has previously rejected the offer of a contract extension at the Stadium of Light and, with a strong probability of Sunderland being relegated in May, it is unlikely that he will change his mind. So, his agent will currently be casting his net around for a suitable move.
Can Sam Allardyce tempt Bardsley with a bumper wage and signing-on fee package? We shall see. It is, however, interesting that he is the third right-back linked with a move to the club in the last week. Firstly, there was Spurs’ promising Kyle Naughton; then Man City’s Micah Richards; and now Phil Bardsley. Does this indicate that the ‘writing is on the wall’ for either Demel or O’Brien and what could it mean for the future of Leo Chambers? Assuming that these three are genuine right-back targets for the club, which is one is preferable? The jury is still out on Naughton, but I think that both Richards and Bardsley are an improvement on Demel and O’Brien. So, I would be happy acquiring either player, but I still hope that young Leo Chambers will challenge for a regular starting spot next season. Let’s strengthen the position and invite young Chambers to rise to the challenge. If he is good enough, he will push on and make the position his own.
Talking of potential Bosman deals at Sunderland. It also appears that both Craig Gardner and Seb Larsson could also be available on free transfers this summer. WBA are said to be interested in both players and will make a move when and if they achieve PL safety. One wonders if Sam Allardyce will also show an interest, considering how well they both performed in playing a direct style of football at Alex McLeish’s at Birmingham City. Craig Gardner, in particular, was very good at getting on the end of knock downs from Zigic and finishing the 2nd phase ball. Its not the style of play that I want to see predominate next season, but as we all know Allardyce seems to like playing that way. And in Gardner and Larrson he would have two midfielders who would fit well in to that type of system.
A final word on last Sunday’s Liverpool match. It seems that Liverpool are quickly re-acquiring their former position as the darlings of the nation’s football media. Certainly, that seems to be the case, if Sunday and Monday’s match reports are anything to go by! It was disappointing that West Ham did not get the credit that their good football deserved. It was without doubt our best footballing display of the season. We really pushed Liverpool all the way. Unfortunately, the lack of that crucial extra bit of invention/ruthlessness, in the final third, undermined the quality of our approach play. If we could have been more inventive/ruthless in front of goal then the result would have been different. Unfortunately, this has been consistently re-occurring feature of West Ham’s play this season, which must be addressed, as a priority, in the summer.
The most amazing thing was the lack of media recognition of the job that Reid and Tomkins did on the much exalted SAS attack of Liverpool. Apparently the deadly duo had an ‘off day’ on Sunday. Yes they did, but it was a ‘off day’ imposed on them by West Ham’s excellent defensive play. Reid was back to his best and Tomkins is showing signs of finally realising his potential. Tomkins did get ‘suckered in’ for the hand ball incident and that was unfortunate, but hopefully he will have learnt from it. Apart from that one incident he was pretty much faultless alongside Reid. The truth is that Liverpool had to pull out all the stops to secure the three points, and scraped a win with the aid of two Gerrard penalities. Of these penalty decisions, Its hard to argue against the Tomkins hand ball, but the second should never been penalised. Adrian got a hand to the ball first and the subsequent contact with the Liverpool player was minimal. The Demel equaliser probably should have been disallowed for a foul on the keeper, no arguments there. But overall, West Ham were very unfortunate not to emerge with point from the match. It would have been no more than they deserved on the day.
Post-match, some decidedly churlish comments were made by the Liverpool camp. Firstly, Brenden Rodgers failed to give his opponents the credit that they deserved, making a big issue of insisting that ‘Liverpool were clearly the better team.’ Who was he trying to convince? Us, himself or his players? Perhaps they were just about the better team over the 90 minutes, but if so, there is no denying that West Ham were not far behind. West Ham troubled them, not just physically, but also with their passing of the ball. Then we also had all that stuff from Steven Gerrard about coach parking, a over-heated dressing room and a dry pitch. I am glad that West Ham belatedly, and in no uncertain terms, put the record straight. One expects better of Liverpool, as prospective PL Champions.
As for West Ham, my hope is that with 37 points in the bag, we can relax and play well next Tuesday against Arsenal. No one is expecting us to to win, so we will have nothing to lose. It would be nice to see us build on the good performance against Liverpool and really take the game to the Gooners.They are having a bit of an ‘up and down’ season so maybe we might be fortunate enough to catch them on the right night? Especially if Carroll can use his strength and ability in the air to trouble their defence. If not, then let’s keep it competitive and look forward to the Easter fixture with Crystal Palace and, hopefully, reaching the magical 40 points mark.
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West Ham United, Hull City interested in Emanuele Giaccherini?
By Callum Mulvihill
Friday, April 11, 2014 at 02:40 UK
SportsMole
West Ham United and Hull City have both reportedly identified Emanuele Giaccherini as a transfer target ahead of the summer window.
Giaccherini was brought to Sunderland from Juventus last summer by former manager Paolo Di Canio, but he has been in and out of the team during a difficult campaign for the Black Cats.
Sunderland could be forced to sell the Italian if they are relegated from the Premier League, and both West Ham and Hull would be keen to secure his services, according to talkSPORT.
However, the two clubs could face competition from Genoa, with reports in Italy suggesting that the Serie A outfit are also keen on signing the 27-year-old.
Sunderland are currently bottom of the table with seven games left in their campaign.
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Arsenal and Hammers in transfer tussle
by Richard Flynn
10th April 2014 9:04pm BST
Football direct news
West Ham United are plotting an ambitious move for Levante goalkeeper Keylor Navas after a recommendation from their ex-striker Paulo Wanchope, [football] direct news understands.
The highly-rated shot-stopper, who is also on Arsenal’s radar, will face represent Costa Rica at this summer’s World Cup, where he will come up against England in the group stages.
Wanchope is a coach with Navas’s national side and a source close to West Ham told FDN the 37-year-old visited Upton Park, where he delivered a glowing report on the Levante star.
The Hammers realise they will have a fight on their hands if Arsenal firm up their interest, as the Gunners will be able to offer European football next term.
However, if they force their way to the front of the queue West Ham hope to tempt the La Liga outfit with a bid of around £7million, in view of the fact that Navas has little more than 12 months remaining on his contract in Spain.
Veteran Jussi Jaaskelainen started the season as the Hammers’ first-choice goalkeeper but has lost his place in the side to Adrian.
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Hammers players poke fun at Spurs for Bobby Moore Fund
James Jones
April 11, 2014
westhamworld
Today is Football Shirt Friday, which is a special day when fans are asked to show their passion for their club or country in aid of the Bobby Moore Fund.
Just wear your favourite football shirt to work or school today and donate at least £2 to help beat Bowel Cancer for good. Details on how you can donate are below.
And the West Ham players are helping to raise awareness in a unique way by signing a shirt with the lettering ‘SPURS 0-3 WHU, COYI’ on the back ready for it to be auctioned, with all the money raised to go to the Bobby Moore Fund.
DJ Leon (@djleon1983) got the shirt printed shortly after our 3-0 victory at White Hart Lane in October and has now got it signed by the players. The auction date is still to be decided.
Here’s some brilliant photos of the players holding up the shirt…http://westhamworld.co.uk/hammers-players-poke-fun-at-spurs-for-bobby-moore-fund/?
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Thursday, April 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th April 2014
Sincere apologies for the lack of Digest for the last 2 days.
Pablo's patience rewarded
Pablo Armero showcased his talents on an impressive full debut for West Ham United
09.04.2014
Pablo Armero's patience was rewarded as he produced a fine display on his full West Ham United debut.
The Colombian left-back was handed his first start in Sunday's 2-1 Barclays Premier League loss to Liverpool at the Boleyn Ground.
Despite feeling the disappointment of defeat, Armero was happy to be given his chance to start, having had to bide his time since his January loan switch from Italian club Napoli.
"It has been a while since I have played," admitted the No8, who caught the eye with his pace, tenacity and impressive distribution. "It is very important for me to play so I thank God, my colleagues and the technical team who gave me the opportunity. I think I fulfilled with them and I hope I can carry on enjoying these opportunities."
Armero was part of a determined defensive display that restricted title-chasing Liverpool to a handful of clear goalscoring chances, with the Reds' two goals both coming from the penalty spot.
While the headlines focused on those controversial Steven Gerrard penalties and Luis Suarez hitting the crossbar twice, the South American said Liverpool carried a threat from all over the pitch which West Ham did relatively well to contain.
"More than Suarez I think it was about the whole Liverpool team," he explained. "They are a great team and I think they did the things right but we also had opportunities. Unfortunately we did not win but we did a good job as a team."
For the speedy Armero, who has spent the past three-and-a-half seasons in Italian football with Udinese and Napoli, the pace of the Barclays Premier League is a feature he has relished.
With five matches still to play, the 27-year-old is hoping for more opportunities to shine between now and the season's end.
The first of those games is at Arsenal next Tuesday evening - a club Armero enjoyed victory over in the UEFA Champions League group stage with Napoli as recently as December 2013.
Does he believe West Ham can emulate that 2-0 victory at the Emirates next Tuesday evening?
"I believe in the teamwork and if we play as a team we can get a good result."
Looking further forward, should he continue to impress and settle, the Colombia international regular would love nothing more than to remain in English football with the Hammers.
"It is a new experience, and it is a very good one for me," he confirmed. "I like the Premier League, because it is very fast, it is very exciting and I like how the crowd enjoy the games. I think it is thrilling playing here and I enjoy it."
"I would like to have a good end with West Ham so in the future have a new contract with the team."
A second summer aim for Armero is the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Having played in 15 of Colombia's 16 South American qualifiers and been capped 50 times in total, the left-back will surely be involved on his home continent. However, he knows a series of strong displays over the closing weeks of the Barclays Premier League season would cement his place in Jose Pekerman's squad.
"Firstly, I am thinking of West Ham and getting the maximum result here," he revealed. "It is normal that, as we are getting close to the World Cup, I want to keep pace and be at full capacity [so that I can be picked for Brazil 2014]."
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Reid ready for final push
Winston Reid is working hard to rediscover his very best form before the season's end
09.04.2014
While Winston Reid produced a seemingly assured display against Liverpool on Sunday, the West Ham United defender reckons he still has more to give.
Reid, who missed three months of the campaign with an ankle injury, has started and finished the Hammers' last two Barclays Premier League outings, as the 25-year-old Kiwi settles back into the groove that saw him crowned Hammer of the Year last term.
Though Sunday's result was naturally a disappointing one, the performance was anything but, even if Reid believes that there remains room for improvement.
He told West Ham TV: "I think we played alright on Sunday, we could have kept the ball better but, at the end of the day, we're playing against the league leaders and unfortunately we lost. We came off a couple of good wins and wanted to continue but we just didn't have enough to get over the line and that's football.
"I think we could have done better, but in hindsight they kept the ball well and towards the end of the game we tired a little bit. We tried our best to create some chances and we had a couple of good ones. I thought we did well and the boys had a good crack at it."
As for his own display, Reid certainly rose to the challenge against Luis Suarez, an encounter that has cemented his admiration for the Premier League's top marksman. That said, New Zealand's skipper is still hopeful of further improvement before the summer is upon him.
He continued: "I mean he [Suarez] is a class player, so you can't really give him too much time on the ball. He had a couple of actions out there on Sunday and you could see he was a good player.
"I've been out for four months with my ankle and it's still getting better. I feel maybe that I still have another ten, 15 per cent to work on until I'm there 100 per cent. I'll work hard every day to make sure I'm there. This is how I feel personally. There's a little bit more sharpness to get out there and hopefully I can get that before the season ends."
Next up for Reid and co is Tuesday's trip to the Emirates Stadium, one that the centre-half admits is likely to be every bit as tough as Sunday's slender reverse.
"It' [Arsenal] is going to be a difficult game as well, but hopefully we'll get a good rest now and get some good training in and prepare ourselves for that game.
"It's just Sunday's result really that's a little bit annoying, but we'll keep moving forward and onto the next one."
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The Big Interview - Alvin Martin
Hammers legend Alvin Martin was back at the Boleyn Ground for Sunday's visit of Liverpool
08.04.2014
For West Ham United legend and Liverpool-born defender Alvin Martin, there were no spilt loyalties on Sunday, as the three-time Hammer of the Year returned to his old stomping ground for the first time this season.
Though Martin, whose distinguished Hammers career spanned some 19 seasons, was not ultimately to witness the home win he craved, the 55-year-old had many an encouraging word for the current incumbents of the Claret and Blue.
Adamant that his old Club are already safe, the now radio and television pundit spoke of his admiration for Hammers frontman Andy Carroll, while paying tribute to West Ham's ever loyal supporters.
Welcome Alvin, good to be back?
AM: "I haven't been all season, obviously following everything on TV, but I go to watch my boys a lot and have other work commitments. But just walking down Green Street, I got the train down to Upton Park, and the buzz out there was fantastic.
You join us at a time when West Ham are more or less safe…
AM: "Safe! We are safe, not more or less. I think we are there and that's why we can relax. We've been under pressure for a lot of the season and the players have had to deal with that. They've dealt with it and got results under their belt.
We've been on an excellent run of late, how impressed have you been with the turnaround?
AM: "I think gradually you've got players back. Big Andy's back now. The bad run that they were on was mainly down to injuries. You could see that the line-ups were really devastated in terms of full-backs playing centre-half. So there were good reasons why it was going wrong.
"What you've got now is a side that believes in itself and that's got its big players back. When you've got people like Andy Carroll up there as a target and you see him sitting down in your dressing room - knowing he's 100 per cent fit, which has not always been the case here - then I think it fills the rest of the players with confidence. Because if big Andy plays well, the crowd react and the other players respond."
I should think Andy's a centre-half's nightmare, isn't he?
AM: "I think he's one of them I wouldn't like to play against. There were lots about when I was playing, there was always one big centre-forward in every team. But I think, when he's on form, you could say that he comes into the category of unplayable.
"If you get the right service to him, the diagonal ball, put the right flight on it, then he's going to be coming over the top of you as a centre-half and really you've just got to make it as difficult as possible for him. But the other players then will play off him, especially people like Kevin Nolan. When Andy Carroll's playing well and he's winning 70 or 80 per cent of his headers, he [Nolan] knows instinctively where it's going to drop and it's very hard to play against."
At the other end of the pitch, much of the success this season has been based on a solid back four and 13 clean sheets to date?
AM: "That's right and that, again, was with the disruption to the back four, so considering we've got that amount of clean sheets, I think it's testament to the rest of the players that have been able to come in. I think Winston Reid was a big loss for an integral part of the season and it's no coincidence, from my point of view, that the results did take a downturn when we lost him.
"But certainly, if you've got a defence that is solid, it helps the attackers, because they feel they can take a different view on the game, more chances, more risks and if it breaks down they feel confident that they're not going to concede a goal. Whereas when you're conceding lots of goals, you're scared to take chances further up the pitch."
The run-in is quite a tough one, but do you think Big Sam will still have an eye on the top ten?
AM: "I always feel that we're capable of beating anyone on any day and especially here. I know, from my experience after playing, people come up to me who played for big teams, the Liverpools, the Manchester Uniteds and I played against them on a regular basis. And maybe ten years after they'd finished their career, they'd come up and admitted that they hated playing here.
"That was down, not to the team they were playing against, but down to the crowd, down to the atmosphere and the passion that they faced. So the big teams that have to come here will certainly have a game in store for them. The pressure's off us now and I always feel that players play their best football when they can relax and we should be in that mode."
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Hammers fans enjoy Open Training
Hammers fans turned out in numbers to watch the first team train on Tuesday
08.04.2014
Hundreds of Hammers fans met their West Ham United heroes as the Club held an Open Training Day at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday.
Season Ticket Holders, Academy Members and Corporate Members made the most of the Spring sunshine to watch the first team train.
The crowd watched on as Sam Allardyce's squad undertook various drills before working on their match play to end the session.
Following training, the players took time to sign autographs and pose for photographs with supporters, while a number of young fans had the opportunity to take penalties against Adrian.
Supporter Nicola from Hadleigh said: "Days like this definitely encourage you to renew your ticket. You can bring all the kids along and it's really good. You get to see what they do behind the scenes and you don't normally get to see that.
"Usually you turn up, watch a match and then go home. It's nice to see them and get to know them a bit better off the pitch."
Forward Ricardo Vaz Te added: "For me personally it's fun because you see the kids and it makes their day to get a signature or a picture.
"We've had two of these days this season now and obviously they're over the moon because they don't get many chances to meet the players.
"For the whole squad to be here together at one time is great for them. It makes my day too to see that they're happy."
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Why aye man! Geordies set to join Hammers down under
Filed: Wednesday, 9th April 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United could be joined by Newcastle United on their proposed pre-season trip to New Zealand.
KUMB.com revealed back in February that the Hammers were close to striking a deal that would see them make the 12,000-mile trip in order to feature in two friendlies a month ahead of the start of the 2014/14 campaign.
However it is now thought that fellow Premier League side Newcastle could join West Ham, with the two English clubs set to partake in a four-team round-robin tournament involving two local teams - Hyundai A-League side Wellington Phoenix plus one other, yet to be confirmed.
Wellington mayor Celia Wade-Brown told the Star-Times: "There's a whole lot of contracts both between ourselves and the Phoenix and two Premier League clubs, but they have not been finalised.
"I'm not in a position to confirm anything as we have yet to finalise our agreement, but Wellington City is excited about the prospect of English Premier League action.
"All I can say is I'm positive about the prospect of good football being played in the capital, but we haven't confirmed any contract yet."
KUMB understands that West Ham are also investigating the possibility of adding trips to Australia and/or Chine as part of the summer tour, which will take place in the latter half of July.
Should the trip go ahead as planned, it will be the first time West Ham have ever made an official trip to New Zealand, the home of current first team central defender Winston Reid.
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Dyer: Carroll for England
Filed: Wednesday, 9th April 2014
By: Staff Writer
Actor Danny Dyer has added his name to the lengthy list of those who believe Hammers striker Andy Carroll should be part of the England squad that takes part in this summer's World Cup Finals in Brazil.
The 36-year-old, a lifelong West Ham supporter was speaking to Sky Sports as part of their 'Me & My Club' series.
And like many pundits, Dyer firmly believes that the big man should be part of Roy Hodgson's final 23-man squad for the tournament, which is being staged in South America for the first time since the 1978 Argentina tournament.
"We've got two great wingers in Downing and Jarvis and a big nut in Carroll, who's a throwback," said Dyer. "There's not many players like him and he should be on the plane to Brazil."
During the five-and-a-half minute interview, which you can see below, the Eastenders actor also revelaed that he bcaks current manager Sam Allardyce, who continues to split the fanbase. I'm happy with Sam, although I know there's a lot of people who aren't," he added.
"We have to accept the times we're going through and at the moment Big Sam can only do what he can do with the player's he got."
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Pants on fire, Stevie G?
Filed: Tuesday, 8th April 2014
By: Staff Writer
Steven Gerrard's insistence that Liverpool's team coach had to park "a mile away" from the Boleyn Ground prior to Sunday afternoon's match has been called into question after pictures emerged of the bus parked in Green Street.
An image posted by Twitter user @JackLebeau66 shortly before midday on Sunday lunchtime clearly shows the coach parked outside the Our Lady Of Compassion Catholic Church, which is situated immediately next to the main car park as used by away teams.
And in stark contrast to Gerrard's calculations, the distance from the Church to the main entrance of the Boleyn Ground is no more than 50 yards - considerably less than the 1,760 yards that constitute a mile.
Gerrard, who scored two controversial penalties as Liverpool later won 2-1 to keep their chances of winning the Premier League alive was also pictured leaving the coach alongside West Ham United Security Manager Simon Sutton, who is charged with ensuring safety at the stadium.
The image, which appears to show a reflection of the Boleyn Ground in the coach windows features several members of the public who had congregated outside the car park entrance in order to get a snap or two of players arriving at the ground.
The 33-year-old England international, who has also been charged with hypocrisy over comments he has made in relation to diving, had accused West Ham of dirty tricks prior to the game. "We knew what to expect and we got a bit more than we expected - a hot dressing room, a dry pitch and the bus had to park a mile away,’ he said. "I think they tried everything to upset us."
West Ham co-owner David Gold has his say on Twitter:
Mr Gerrard nobody force your bus driver to park a mile away from the ground, it was his choice. If the heating is too warm, turn it down. Dg
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Pablo seeking permanent deal
Filed: Tuesday, 8th April 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's on-loan defender Pablo Armero has revealed that he'd like to secure a permanent contract with the Club.
The 27-year-old Colombian is on loan with the Hammers for the remainder of the current season, having agreed a move to London on transfer deadline day (January 31).
And in an interview with the Newham Recorder, Armero - whose parent club are Serie A side Napoli - admitted that he'd love to extend his stay in the UK.
"It is a new experience for me, but it is very good. I like it," he said. "It is very fast and exciting and I like how the crowd enjoy the games.
"I would like to have a good end [to the season] so in the future have a new contract with the team."
Armero, who is hoping to be part of the Colombian World Cup squad this summer played all of last weekend's 2-1 home defeat against Liverpool due to George McCartney's absence through injury.
It was his third appearance in claret and blue since movcing from Italy, but also his first start for the club.
"It has been a while without playing," he said. "It has been very important for me to play. I thank God, my colleagues and the technical team who gave me the opportunity.
"I think I fulfilled what I wanted to do against Liverpool. They are a great team and I think they did things right. I hope I can carry on enjoying the opportunities."
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Premier League: West Ham's Adrian unhappy Jon Flanagan was awarded penalty
Last Updated: 08/04/14 2:56pm
Skysports
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian still feels aggrieved that Jon Flanagan was awarded a penalty in Sunday's 2-1 defeat by Liverpool.
Referee Anthony Taylor adjudged Adrian fouled Liverpool left-back Flanagan for the match-deciding spot-kick, but the goalkeeper thought he got the ball.
"I thought it was the wrong decision because I touched the ball with my hand and I think Flanagan did not claim anything on the pitch," said Adrian on whufc.com.
"I think it was a bad decision from the referee.
"We didn't lose this match because of our performance, because it was a good performance. One point would have been good for us but finally we lost.
"Decisions are made in the moment and I think this decision was very bad for us."
West Ham next play Arsenal next Tuesday night, with the Hammers targeting victory.
"It's a good game for us," Adrian added. "We have to go to the Emirates with confidence and put in a good performance.
"We need more points because the Liverpool match was bad for us (in terms of the result)."
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YOU ONLY SING WHEN YOU'RE COUGHING!
By Sean Whetstone 9 Apr 2014 at 14:16
West Ham till I Die
Sunday’s match against Liverpool saw the Boleyn’s ground third incident of smoke bombs being set off by visiting supporters this season. I am not being a kill joy but as an asthmatic sufferer the smoke blows downwind to those of us standing in the Sir Trevor Brooking lower which can affect our breathing.
The Everton and Manchester City matches have also seen smoke bombs being set off.
Being in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match, or attempting to bring a pyrotechnic device into a football stadium, is a criminal offence under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985. Any person committing such an offence faces arrest and can expect the Court to make a Football Banning Order
Recent research, which was conducted with 1,635 Premier League supporters, found that 87% of fans believe that pyrotechnics such as flares and smoke bombs are dangerous at matches, and that 86% were concerned for their safety. The same number (86%) think flares and smoke bombs are a fire risk and 79% consider them to be a health hazard.
After the match I asked the club what was being done to combat this menace so I was pleased to receive a call from the stadium manager on Tuesday who explained what West Ham were doing to stamp it out.
West Ham now deploy sniffer dogs from Top Dog Security who are also used at the Emirates stadium by Arsenal. These dogs mingle with the away supporter queues and are trained to sniff out pyrotechnics. West Ham is also working closely the police in securing arrests for anyone caught in possession of pyrotechnics in the ground. I understand there was one such arrest at the Manchester City game and that fan is being processed through the criminal justice system which could well results in a prison sentence and three year football banning order.
I did ask the question why away supporters are not searched as West Ham supporters are often subject to searches when we travel away.
On Sunday a number of red smoke bombs were set off after Liverpool’s first penalty was converted. These pyrotechnics were collected by West ham staff and passed on to the police for forensic DNA testing. If the police get a match then arrests will be made and both clubs will be informed. After the away club is informed that one of their fans has been arrested, that fan will be issued with a home club ban and a ban on buying an away ticket regardless of the bail conditions they get. This will last until the case is concluded. Regardless of the verdict and the punishment the courts hand down, they will face a long club ban.
The club are also supporting the Premier League educational campaign and I was told there are a number of posters in the visitors end. More info can be found here Face Pyro Facts www.facepyrofacts.co.uk
Liverpool recently warned their own fans on the official website but it seems to be falling on deaf ears
“Liverpool Football Club would like to remind fans that flares and pyrotechnics are illegal and should not be used in or around Anfield stadium. Merseyside Police has received complaints from fans who attended the Sunderland game on Wednesday night becoming distressed, suffering from respiratory problems and red dye staining their clothing when approaching the ground on Anfield Road. A small child also required first aid treatment, suffering from a scorch mark on their skin where a flare had been thrown.
The use of flares and smoke bombs at any football stadium is a breach of regulations and anyone in possession of these could be subject to a banning order and police action.”
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THE RISE OF THE WEST HAM ARMCHAIR FAN
By Sean Whetstone 8 Apr 2014 at 13:46
West Ham till I Die
A fellow season ticket holder challenged me on Sunday about the recent Sam Allardyce poll. He pointed out that the problem with the Internet poll on whether Sam should go or stay is it didn’t qualify whether the voters ever went to watch games. His argument was the poll should have been limited to match going fans who is his words ‘have to endure the football week in week out’. He couldn’t fathom how half of the voters want Sam Allardyce to stay as manager next season if they watched the matches.
His statement got me thinking about the modern status of fans and their power. The term ‘arm chair fan’ has often been used by match going fans as a put down to emphasise their own self importance and say within the club. The typical so called ‘Arm chair’ would only watch highlights on Match of the Day on Saturday but be very opinionated.
Today’s modern ‘Armchair fan’ has full access to all home and away games live in HD outside the UK and within the UK many fans now have access to internet streams many of which are becoming good quality and High Definition also. It could be argued the new breed of arm chair fan has more access and watches more of West Ham than the season ticket holder who goes to home games.
The money element is also starting to come into it. We currently have 21,000 season ticket holders leaving 14,000 tickets for away and West ham supporters each match. The combined revenue from ticket sales was £18m in 2013. By contrast we look likely to receive £77m from TV broadcast this season if we finish 11th. With an estimated turnover of around £115m this season that means match going fans provide just 16% of our income and season ticket holders less than 10%.
The new power is the billions of football fans around the world which make up the TV audience paying their TV subscriptions or watching adverts on Sky Sports, BT Sport, NBC or Fox Sports, and Al Jazeera Sports among other Premier League broadcasters. It is these TV companies and their customers who have the real power now. The TV companies want entertaining matches for their customers at time schedules to suit them. In years to come I can see all UK fans being able to legally watch pay per view matches in the same way those outside the UK already can. Whether this is a good thing or not I will leave to you to decide.
I don’t care where you were born, where you live now, what connection you have or had with West Ham or the East End. As long as you love West Ham and are passionate about the club then you are all part of the West Ham global family in my eyes and no West Ham fan should perceive any status over any other West Ham fan.
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West Ham eye Phil Bardsley transfer as Sunderland head for relegation
Apr 08, 2014 19:45
By John Cross
Mirror
The full-back is out of contract at the end of the season and could lead a post-drop exodus from the Stadium of Light
West Ham are trying to sign Sunderland full-back Phil Bardsley.
Bardsley, 28, is out of contract this summer and could lead the exodus out of the Stadium of Light if the Black Cats are relegated from the Premier League.
Former Manchester United youngster Bardsley would have to take a 40 per cent pay cut to stay at Sunderland in the second tier, and has already stalled on signing a new deal.
But Hammers boss Sam Allardyce is hopeful of snapping him up on a free, with the offer of a lucrative contract and signing-on fee.
West Brom are favourites to land Craig Gardner, another free agent this summer, while his fellow midfielders Seb Larsson and Jack Colback could also leave on free transfers.
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West Ham keen to keep Winston Reid
Last updated 18:31 10/04/2014
The Dominion Post
West Ham United are on the brink of offering Winston Reid a contract extension to keep the All Whites captain away from the clutches of top English premier league clubs.
English websites have been reporting that Reid could become one of the Hammers' top earners - alongside ex-England striker Andy Carroll.
The Gazette, which circulates in Essex, West Ham's catchment area, said the club had made extending Reid's contract "a priority".
"The New Zealand centre back has a year to run on his contract and is reportedly a target for Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United.
"And despite having several players out of contract this summer, Reid will jump to the top of the contract renewal queue at the Boleyn Ground [West Ham's home ground]."
Arsenal's north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur have also been reportedly interested in Reid.
The 25-year-old defender joined West Ham United on a $8.7 million transfer deal from Danish club FC Midtjylland in 2010 after starring for the All Whites at the World Cup finals in South Africa.
He signed a new two-year contract in January, 2013.
The www.transfermarkt.com website has listed his current market value at $9.5 million.
Reid has captained West Ham in regular skipper Kevin Nolan's absence. The team plummeted down the points table when he was out for three months after injuring an ankle, which forced him to miss the All Whites' World Cup playoff series with Mexico last November.
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