Daily WHUFC News - 23rd April 2015

New Stadium Season Ticket prices announced
WHUFC.com

West Ham United are delighted to announce major price cuts across the board
for Season Tickets for the first season at the Club's magnificent new home
on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

The key details are as follows:

Every Season Ticket price band will see a reduction as the Club uses
increased broadcast revenue to offer dramatically cheaper tickets to its
supporters

A new entry-level Band 5 adult Season Ticket will cost just £289 – the
cheapest in the Premier League

All Season Tickets for Under-16s will be cut to just £99 – the equivalent of
only £5 per game

A family of four can buy a Season Ticket for just £776 – the equivalent of
£41 per match

West Ham United Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold and
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady have long been champions of trying to make
football more affordable for supporters.

When they announced their ambition to make the former Olympic Stadium West
Ham's new home, they also stated their hope that it would create
opportunities for more Hammers fans to be able to afford to watch their
team. Today's announcement delivers on that pledge as the Hammers become the
first Barclays Premier League Club to use the increased broadcast revenue
for the 2016/17 season to cut ticket prices for supporters.

Every Season Ticket Holder sitting in bands 1-4 for the final season at the
Boleyn Ground will see a reduction of at least £26 in their Season Ticket
price. Band 1 will come down by £26 (-3%), Band 2 by £61 (-7%), Band 3 by
£201 (-25%) and Band 4 by £151 (-23%).

A new £289 Band 5 Season Ticket will become the cheapest in the Premier
League* and represents a cost per game of just £15.20. This market-leading
rate means a family of four can watch West Ham's 19 home games from just
£776 – the equivalent of just £41 per match.

The new £99 Season Ticket for Under-16s also means the Club will have the
cheapest Season Tickets for children among London's Premier League teams,
and will match Sunderland AFC as the cheapest Season Ticket in the league on
general sale to that age group.*

Disabled supporters will also see a further reduction on the already
discounted rates they enjoy at the Boleyn Ground, with disabled Season
Ticket prices being reduced by up to £205.

Commenting on today's announcement, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said:

"We have always said that the move to our magnificent new Stadium would be a
game changer for West Ham: a chance to increase revenue, invest in the team
and improve our performance on the pitch, but crucially without putting an
extra financial burden on the supporters who already come to watch every
home match. Today's announcement proves that we have kept our promise."

Today's significant announcement has also received a ringing endorsement
from the Football Supporters' Federation (FSF).

FSF Chair, Malcolm Clarke, hailed the example the Club are setting by
adding:

"The FSF strongly believes that top-flight clubs should use their
newly-signed media deal to cut ticket prices for both home and away
supporters.

"We hope that other clubs follow suit and reduce ticket prices across the
board, as West Ham United have done.

"West Ham United have thrown down the gauntlet to other clubs – who can
offer the cheapest season ticket prices in the top-flight?"

Pricing

A breakdown of how the existing price bands will change as follows:

Category Band 1 Band 2
Band 3 Band 4
Adult £899(Down 3%) £799(Down 7%)
£599(Down 25%) £499(Down 23%)
Over-65s £450(Down 3%) £399(Down 7%)
£299(Down 26%) £250(Down 23%)
Under-21s £450(Down 3%) £399(Down 7%)
£299(Down 26%) £250(Down 23%)
Under-16s £99(Reduction of up to 61%) £99(Reduction of up to 59%)
£99(Reduction of up to 57%) £99 (Reduction of up to 51%)
Disabled Adult £450 (Down 1%) £399(Down 12%)
£299(Down 34%) £250(Down 45%)

We have always said that the move to our magnificent new Stadium would be a
game changer for West Ham... Today's announcement proves that we have kept
our promise.
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady

1966 Seats

As well as the new Band 5 for the lowest-priced Season Tickets, the move has
seen the introduction of a number of new premium and hospitality matchday
offerings.

With six Club London Lounges now sold out, West Ham recently announced the
launch of The Academy, the latest addition to the Club London range,
offering increased opportunities for those supporters wishing to combine
their matchday experience with the very best in luxury hospitality.

Furthermore, West Ham United have today announced a new VIP area in homage
to the Club's most famous sons. 2016 will mark 50 years since Bobby Moore,
Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters lifted the World Cup for England and the
'1966 Seats' will offer supporters the chance to enjoy superb halfway line
views and a padded seat complete with the ticket holder's name marked on it.


To help mark the launch, the Club will be donating a seat each to the Bobby
Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters families for the first season in
the new Stadium for them to use for a charity of their choice.

New Stadium seat selection process

Following the 17 April deadline for 2015/16 Season Ticket renewals, all
supporters who have renewed their Season Ticket will be contacted with
details of how to access the Online Reservation Centre and track the
progress of their seat selection.

They will then be invited to their personal appointment at the Club's new
Reservation Centre at Westfield Stratford City, where they will be invited
along to virtually 'view' the seats and the Stadium and book their new
Season Ticket. At the appointment, a dedicated sales advisor will use the
state-of-the-art Virtual Venue, as designed by IO Media, to allow fans to
virtually 'sit' in any available seat to make sure they find the one most
suitable for them.

Similarly, iCreate 3D has produced animated Stadium fly-throughs and CGIs,
which supporters can look forward to viewing at the Reservation Centre.

At those appointments, Season Ticket Holders will be able – subject to
availability – to introduce up to two new Season Ticket Holders for the
first time and sit with them in the new Stadium, including Under-16s taking
advantage of the new £99 Season Ticket rate. Further details about the seat
selection process are available on whufc.com.

The reduced prices will also make it easier for every supporter to move up
to a higher price band, should they wish, although the Club's seat selection
policy for the new Stadium guarantees that each 2015/16 Season Ticket Holder
will get first choice on the best available seats in their existing price
band.

Due to the expected demand, the Club have today launched a Priority List for
Season Ticket applications for the new Stadium, which can be joined at
reservations.whufc.com. Once all 2015/16 Season Ticket Holders have had the
chance to select their seats, the Club will contact those registered on the
Season Ticket Priority List with details of their Reservation Centre
appointment.

For answers to FAQs about the new Stadium ticket pricing, including the
launch times for general matchday ticket prices, please click here.

* (based on 2014/15 prices)

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New Stadium Season Ticket prices FAQs
WHUFC.com

Following the announcement of West Ham United's new Stadium ticket pricing
plans, the Club answer all the key questions for supporters below.

For more detailed FAQs about the general process of seat selection at the
new Stadium, including the schedule of appointments at the Reservation
Centre, please click here. Or if you cannot find the answer to your
question, please email: newStadium@westhamunited.co.uk.



PRICING

Which prices have been announced today?

West Ham United have announced prices for Season Tickets at their new
Stadium for the 2016/17 season; their first in the stunning new venue.

The prices stated reflect the amount that existing and new Season Ticket
Holders will pay for the 2016/17 season. Match-by-match ticket prices
(including those for away fans) will be announced in the first few months of
2016.

Why have West Ham reduced their Season Ticket prices?

The Club's Board have long been advocates of making football more affordable
for supporters and regularly offer discounts at the Club's current home in
Upton Park.

It has been their longstanding ambition to further expand that work to make
football more accessible for the everyday working man when the Club moves to
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

How will the reductions be funded? Will spending on strengthening the team
be affected?

As has been well publicised, all Premier League Clubs will benefit from the
new broadcast deal that will come into effect for the start of 2016/17 and
West Ham are the first to publicly commit to spending some of that increased
revenue on reducing Season Tickets prices for its supporters.

The increase in broadcast revenue coupled with the increased capacity at the
new Stadium means the Club can afford to dramatically reduce Season Ticket
prices without adversely affecting the plans to strengthen the team in the
summer of 2016.

Why are there different price reductions across the four bands?

With the move to the new Stadium, the Club have taken the opportunity to
create a new Season Ticket pricing structure that reflects the increased
size and layout of the new Stadium and is more balanced from top to bottom.
Applying a standard discount across all bands would have restricted our
ability to do this.

The new pricing structure has been designed to create a greater number of
affordable tickets so as many West Ham fans as possible can come and support
their team on a regular basis and ensure the Stadium is full.

SEAT SELECTION

Can I upgrade my seat to a higher band?

Yes. Subject to availability, Season Ticket Holders will all have the option
to move into a higher price band and the Club's decisions on pricing will
make it more affordable for supporters to do so.

That is why the seat selection process is being conducted in order of price
band, from band 1 to band 4, so it is clear at each stage what seats are
available in higher price bands.

In line with the Club's seat selection principles, every Season Ticket
Holder will have first choice on the best available seats in their existing
price band before these are offered to supporters in a lower band wishing to
upgrade.

Can I choose a seat in a lower price band?

Any Season Ticket Holder wanting to choose a seat in a lower price band than
their equivalent at the Boleyn Ground may do so, but they will have to wait
until all current Season Ticket Holders from that band have had the
opportunity to select their new seat. This is to ensure Season Ticket
Holders in lower price bands get first pick of the seats in their band and
are in no way disadvantaged by the process or by their fellow supporters.

Where will each price band be located and how many seats will there be in
each?

Supporters will be able to see the location of all seats in the price bands
available to them at their Reservation Centre appointment.

I've already upgraded to Club London, am I still eligible for my Reservation
Centre appointment as an existing Season Ticket Holder?

Yes. Each and every Season Ticket Holder for the final season at the Boleyn
Ground is eligible for an appointment at the Reservation Centre.

Can I select my seat over the phone or online?

While supporters can select their seats over the phone if necessary, they
are strongly advised to attend their appointment in person to take advantage
of the cutting edge Virtual Venue technology, which will allow them to
virtually 'sit' in their seats and look at the sightlines and surroundings
that are right for them.

The Club will not have the flexibility to relocate Season Ticket Holders
once the 2016/17 season has begun, so it is important that supporters are
happy with their seats before they choose them. Supporters cannot select
their seats online.

BAND 5 / 1966 SEATS

Who gets priority to choose seats in the new band 5 and when do they go on
sale?

Band 5 seats will be made available after all Season Ticket Holders have had
their appointment at the Reservation Centre. Existing Season Ticket Holders
wishing to purchase in band 5 can then do so, after which supporters on the
new Stadium Season Ticket priority list will be invited to the Reservation
Centre to select from all remaining seats. It is probable that this will not
be until February 2016.

What are the 1966 Seats and why have it been introduced?

The 1966 Seats have been named to celebrate 50 years since West Ham United's
most famous sons lifted the World Cup for England.

The 1966 Seats offer the chance to enjoy a VIP experience in the East Stand,
with padded, named seats on the halfway line, a programme voucher and an
invite to an exclusive player and manager event each season.

Unlike Club London, they can be purchased on a season-by-season basis, as
opposed to committing for a three-year term. The 1966 Seats have a fixed
Season Ticket price of £1,100.

Who gets priority to choose seats in 1966 Seats?

In keeping with the Club's seat selection principles, supporters will have
the option to upgrade (subject to availability) when they attend their
Reservation Centre appointment.

Will there still be good views from band 1 seats in the East Stand?

Yes, absolutely. As the East Stand is a 'Kop' style stand with no corporate
areas, it offers a large capacity for more than 20,000 fans. Because of the
size of the Stadium and the increased capacity in each price band, there
will be sufficient seats in the halfway line section to accommodate all
supporters who currently have a comparable seat at the Boleyn Ground.

How will the seats in different price bands compare to those at the Boleyn
Ground?

The Club have guaranteed that every Season Ticket Holder will be offered a
comparable seat at the new Stadium, based on the price band and location of
their seat for the final season at the Boleyn Ground. However, given the
obvious differences in the shape, seating layout and capacity of the two
grounds, no two seats will be exactly comparable, and the quality of each
seat and sightline is subjective.

GROUPING

1) Existing groups

I already sit with a group at the Boleyn Ground and we want to sit together
in the new Stadium. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?

Yes. Season Ticket Holders who currently sit together at the Boleyn Ground
will also be able to move as a group. When supporters receive details of
their appointment, they will be able to create and register their group
online and attend their Reservation Centre appointment together.

2) New groups

i) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in my price band,
but do not currently sit with me. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?

Season Ticket Holders in the same price band are welcome to group together.
When supporters receive details of their appointment, they will be able to
create and register their group online and attend the Reservation Centre
together.

The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.

ii) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in different price
bands. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?

Season Ticket Holders currently in different price bands are also welcome to
group at the new Stadium, but will be required to group with the individual
in the highest band. This is to protect the rights of Season Ticket Holders
in lower price bands and ensure that they are in no way disadvantaged by the
process or by their fellow supporters.

The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.

BRINGING NEW SEASON TICKET HOLDERS

How will introducing new Season Ticket Holders work?

Subject to availability, every Season Ticket Holder renewing for the 2016/17
season will have the opportunity to introduce up to two new Season Ticket
Holders at the new Stadium. Any existing Season Ticket Holder will be able
to bring the new Season Ticket Holders with them when they choose their seat
at their Reservation Centre appointment.

Do my two new Season Ticket Holders have to sit in the same band as me even
if I choose to upgrade?

The Club would reasonably expect that supporters bringing new Season Ticket
Holders with them will wish to sit together at the new Stadium, but they are
not required to do so.

Based on the lead Season Ticket Holder's location for the final season at
the Boleyn Ground, new Season Ticket Holders are eligible to sit in the same
band or higher at the new Stadium. This is again to protect the process and
the priority of supporters sitting in lower bands.

Why are the Club allowing Season Ticket Holders to bring two new guests with
them?

The Club fully expect the Stadium to be full come August 2016. Therefore we
wanted to give Season Ticket Holders the first chance to group with other
existing Season Ticket Holders or friends or family that previously had not
held a Season Ticket at the Boleyn Ground when they attend their
appointment.

That is why, when existing Season Ticket Holders choose their new seats, the
Club is giving them the opportunity to bring up to two of their friends or
family to become new Season Ticket Holders and sit together as a group.

The only practical way of doing that is to allow those new Season Ticket
Holders to choose their seats at the same time as the existing Season Ticket
Holder who is introducing them.

With the increased capacity at the new Stadium and the fact that every seat
offers an excellent view of the action, the Club are confident that all such
requests can be accommodated without affecting the quality of the options
available to other existing Season Ticket Holders still waiting to choose
their seats.

PAYMENT

How do I confirm my seat at my Reservation Centre appointment?

Season Ticket Holders will be asked to pay a non-refundable 25 per cent
deposit of their total ticket price at the end of their Reservation Centre
appointment to secure their seat. The remaining 75 per cent will be due by
June 2016, in line with the normal window for Season Ticket renewals.

A deposit is required as at all times, the Club need to know precisely which
seats have been allocated to ensure that supporters who are still to select
their seats have access to the best seats still available.

Without some form of financial commitment from Season Ticket Holders, this
would prove exceptionally difficult. The Club is therefore asking supporters
for a 25 per cent deposit to secure their chosen seat, which is payable at
the Reservation Centre appointment.

Will I still be able to pay for my Season Ticket on finance?

Supporters are able to finance the cost of their season ticket through our
Finance Partner V12 Finance.

There will be two options available:
Finance the entire Season Ticket upfront with payments starting one month
after your successful application
Pay your deposit and apply for finance in June of 2016 in line with normal
Season Ticket renewals
CONCESSIONS

What concessions are the Club offering children?

The Club have introduced a flat rate £99 Season Ticket fee for all
Under-16s, which is ten per cent cheaper than the old flat rate for
Under-10s, and considerably cheaper for those older children who previously
bought Season Tickets in the 10-16 age category. This represents a massive
saving all round for young people and their parents.

Will there be a family seating section in the new Stadium?

Yes. The Club's Reservation Centre adviser will be able to provide
information about the family seating options available to each Season Ticket
Holder at their appointment.

Will all Under-16s qualifying for £99 tickets have to sit in family seating
sections?

No, the rules will be exactly the same as at the Boleyn Ground. There will
be a flat rate of £99 for Under-16 Season Ticket Holders in bands 1, 2, 3
and 4 and in the new band 5.

All Under-14s must be accompanied by a full paying adult in all areas of the
Stadium. Within the family seating sections, there must be at least one
Under-16 supporter per two individuals over that age.

ACCESSIBILITY SEATING

Accessibility seating has historically had a price band of its own at the
Boleyn Ground, so where do disabled fans sit in the priority order?

All disabled supporters, both wheelchair users and ambulant, will be entered
into the same process as all other Season Ticket Holders and the scheduling
of their Reservation Centre appointment will be based on their location at
the Boleyn Ground for the final season.

The Club are contacting all disabled supporters to advise them of which band
they currently sit in.

As a wheelchair user, can I bring additional guests and can they sit with
me?

As with the current operation, all disabled supporters are entitled to a
complimentary carer seat located next to their seat. If any additional seats
are required, the Reservation Centre staff will endeavour to seat them as
close as possible but it cannot be guaranteed that they will be directly
next to one another.

How has the new pricing for accessible seating been determined?

West Ham United already offer some of the best rates for disabled fans in
the Premier League but felt it was important that disabled fans enjoyed a
discount like all other Season Ticket Holders at the new Stadium.

The disabled adult Season Ticket price is still approximately 50% of the
full adult price, while concessions will see further discounts on that price
of up to 28%.

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'West Ham have thrown down the gauntlet to other clubs'
WHUFC.com

The announcement of West Ham United's ‎dramatic reduction in the price of
Season Tickets at the Club's new Stadium has been widely welcomed across the
football world and beyond. ‎West Ham became the first Barclays Premier
League Club to announce their Season Ticket prices for the 2016/17 season,
when the new deal on television broadcast rights takes effect. Prices will
be reduced by 25% for current bands 1-4, while a new band 5 will become the
cheapest in the top flight. Chair of the Football Supporters Federation,
Malcolm Clarke, hailed the example the Club are setting: "The Football
Supporters Federation strongly believes that top-flight clubs should use
their newly-signed media deal to cut ticket prices for both home and away
supporters. "We hope that other clubs follow suit and reduce ticket prices
across the board, as West Ham United have done. West Ham have thrown down
the gauntlet to other clubs - who can offer the cheapest season ticket
prices in the top-flight?" Malcolm Clarke, Chair of the Football Supporters
Federation

"We hope that other clubs follow suit and reduce ticket prices across the
board, as West Ham United have done. West Ham have thrown down the gauntlet
to other clubs - who can offer the cheapest season ticket prices in the
top-flight?"

Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Scudamore also backed the Club's
drive to offer its fans cheaper Season Tickets saying:

"The prospect of Premier League football at the former Olympic Stadium is an
exciting one for West Ham United, their fans, and the League as a whole.
Full and vibrant stadiums are an essential part of our competition, and one
of the main reasons for the Premier League's continued success.

"West Ham's announcement today is further evidence that Premier League clubs
do offer stretch pricing, and think about providing opportunities for
families and young people when considering ticket offers for their fans."

Greg Dyke, Chairman of The Football Association, added his congratulations:

"We always welcome efforts to make football more accessible. Football for
everyone is a cornerstone of The FA's daily work as the not-for-profit
governing body of the game in England – whether that is for supporters,
players or volunteers.
"It is particularly important for all clubs to develop strong links with
families, schools and their local community, and we welcome West Ham's
commitment in this area."
Greg Dyke, Chairman of The Football Association
"It is particularly important for all clubs to develop strong links with
families, schools and their local community, and we welcome West Ham's
commitment in this area."

Mayor of Newham, Sir Robin Wales, welcomed the news for local supporters,
saying:

"Once again West Ham United are showing their continuing commitment to
Newham and Hammers fans everywhere. This is an exciting time for both the
club and the borough.

"Our joint aspirations for community and sporting excellence will ensure the
former Olympic Stadium is a busy and vibrant centre for sport, leisure,
culture and education and a home that Hammers supporters can be proud of."

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From the Boardroom
WHUFC.com

We're absolutely delighted to be announcing our Season Ticket prices and we
have made a decision to reduce the price of Season Tickets for comparable
bands when we move here to the Stadium. We've also created the cheapest
adult Season Ticket in the Premier League and Under-16s can get a Season
Ticket for just £99. So we've honoured our promises to our supporters that
no one will get left behind. We want to set a trend by becoming the first
Premier League side to use the greater broadcast revenue from 2016 to reduce
ticket prices, which we believe will be a huge step forward in the battle to
make football cheaper to watch. As a Board we have always been committed to
making football more affordable for supporters and their families. We are
the only Premier League Club currently offering six Kids for a Quid games in
the Premier League this season – despite seeing the highest occupancy in the
Premier League – and have seen a 23 per cent growth in Under-18s attending
games over the past two seasons.

I think that really shows we're making a connection and we're getting our
pricing right. But, in reality, this is a 54,000-seater Stadium, it's the
best stadium in the world, it's the newest, it's an Olympic Stadium and we
just felt that was an opportunity to celebrate with our supporters, to give
them a far superior product at a cheaper price. There are a lots of great
stadiums, but there's only one Olympic Stadium, there would have been some
people, bearing in mind it's London, bearing in mind it's a beautiful
Stadium, that may have been encouraged to put prices up. But my Board and I
took the view that actually making football affordable is one of the key
things that we want to do.

We do not want to price our supporters – who stood by us for decades – out
of this Stadium and that's why we're offering the most competitive prices in
the Premier League. We have pledged to do all we can to help deliver the
Olympic Legacy by ensuring that sport at the Stadium is made accessible to
everyone, from young people to the everyday working man. Our target has
always been to sell the Stadium out and we believe we have the fanbase and
now the pricing model to do just that.

Our outstanding new corporate area, Club London, has broken all sales
projections and Season Tickets for the final season at the Boleyn Ground are
set to sell out long before a ball is kicked next season. For those who miss
out, today also sees the launch of our Season Ticket Priority List for the
new Stadium and we fully expect to be sold out come August 2016.

Therefore, I would urge our Season Ticket Holders to seize the unique
opportunity we have provided for them to bring two new supporters with them
when they attend their appointment at the Reservation Centre in Stratford.

The best Stadium in the Premier League will now have the most affordable
seats and we hope West Ham United will now be known as the home of
affordable football in London. August 2016 just cannot come soon enough.

Karren Brady

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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com

James Tomkins is rehabbing very well. He is four to five weeks on from his
surgery to repair his dislocated shoulder and he is already on the pitch
doing short individual sessions with physiotherapist Dominic Rogan and rehab
fitness coach Eduardo Garcia Parra. A positive with an injury such as this
that the player can work on his fitness, although we still have a long way
to go with his shoulder mobility and strength. It is good to be working with
James in two lines – the first concentrating on his shoulder mobility and
strength and the second on his fitness work. The only restriction is his
movement pattern. You cannot do too much on the pitch or else you run the
risk of creating wrong movement patterns and this leads to other
compensations.

Andy Carroll returned from his warm-weather training in Dubai two weeks ago
and is now in the final rehab stage before he can return to the pitch and
start running. In the next four to five weeks we will be upping the load for
Andy. The previous stage was still very static, with a lot of work on the
exercise bike, in the pool and in the gym doing slow-motion exercises. We
have no more limitations regarding the mobility of the knee, which makes the
rehab much more interesting and gives us access to more challenging
exercises.

Looking forward, we are on schedule.

Diafra Sakho pulled his quadriceps – more specifically his rectus femoris
muscle, which is used to kick, jump and sprint – in the game against Stoke
City. We have seen the specialist once and will see him again next week to
see how well the body has healed in this early stage. This will enable us to
give a more accurate prognosis on when he will return to play.

Doneil Henry is continuing with his rehabilitation following surgery on the
hamstring injury he suffered while on loan at Blackburn Rovers.

Unfortunately we had some bad news, too, as Guy Demel pulled his calf muscle
in training on Friday and it looks like he will be side-lined for a few
weeks. There will be more on Guy next week.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical & Sports Science

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The Big Interview - Stewart Downing
WHUFC.com

Stewart Downing still believes a strong finish to the season is possible for
West Ham United, despite the east Londoners' travails in recent weeks.

A run of five defeats in their last seven games, have seen hopes of
qualifying for the UEFA Europa League by their league position fade, but a
trip to struggling Queens Park Rangers on Saturday offers an opportunity to
get back on track.

We caught up with the No11 as he attended a Moore Family Foundation skills
session…

A disappointing result on Sunday, but did the way we ended the game give you
hope for how we can push on over the last five games of the season?

SD: "Going two goals down was always going to be difficult at City, but I
think we kept going and had a couple of chances in the end.

"They are a really good team and in the first half we weren't good enough,
which is what killed us. They were sloppy goals, but we'll take heart from
the second half. We have to play like that for the remaining five games – if
we do we'll be fine."

Speaking to the manager afterwards, he said the focus would be on keeping as
many as clean sheets as possible, to give us the best possible chance of
winning. Is that what we've got to get back to?

SD: "I think so. We haven't been as free-flowing in terms of goals as we
were earlier in the season. Missing Sakho is a bit of a blow, we've had
Enner out for a couple of weeks too, so it's been difficult for us.

"The goals we conceded on Sunday, one was a fluke and the other was a
mistake, so on the whole we defended really well.

"We'll go to QPR now – it's a difficult game as they're playing for points
massively, but if we can go there and score an early goal it'll put pressure
on them."


You mention early goals there, that's what we did last time against QPR. It
was your corner that led to Nedum Onouha's own goal, so how key is making
that better start?

SD: "That was probably one of the best games we've played at home, QPR. I
know they were in a bit of disarray then, but we played ever-so-well, got a
goal early and that settled us down to play some really good stuff on the
day. We should have beaten them more comfortably.

"It's a totally different game, this one. They've got a bit of confidence
now having had a couple of good results. They were unlucky against Chelsea
so it's going to be difficult for us, but I'm confident we can win it."

What's it like at this time of year when you come up against a team like
that with so much at stake for them?

SD: "It could work both ways because if we score early there's pressure on
them because they're playing at home and the crowd could get on their backs.
It depends on how their players handle it.

"We don't want to concede first because that's what would give them
confidence. I think that's what Chelsea did – they got the goal late on, but
that deflated them and we've got to be positive to start getting some goals
on the scoresheet."

The targets may have changed for us slightly in recent weeks, but is it
still a case of 50 points and ensuring it's the best season since we've been
back in the Premier League?

SD: "Yes, it's been disappointing of late, but on reflection over the
season, on performances we should be at least in the top eight. The target
is to finish as high as we can, because we don't want the season to peter
out.

"If it does everyone remembers not finishing well. We want this season to be
remembered for being a good one, finishing as strongly as we started it.
Squad-wise, performance and how we've played has been a massive improvement
on last season.

"We had our problems with injuries and suspensions last year, but this time
we've been luckier on that front. The strength in depth has been better, the
manager bought well, and now we need a result as quickly as we can to give
the players confidence to finish well."

We're here at a community event with lots of youngsters showing off their
skills. It'a always good to give something back isn't it?

SD: "Yes, it's a good turnout today. There are a few different age groups
out there and it's nice for the players to get out and give a bit of support
back. It's been enjoyable."

How important is it, as always, for you as inspirational figures for these
young people to look up to?

SD: "A lot of these are West Ham fans, so some of them could be seeing their
favourite players today, so it's nice to come out, show you face, have a
little chat and put a smile on their faces. It always helps.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Aaron's end-of-season ambitions
WHUFC.com

Aaron Cresswell insists there is plenty still to play for as the Barclays
Premier League enters its final five weeks. For West Ham United's only
ever-present this season, there are personal accolades and a top-ten finish
to concentrate the mind. Though he modestly thinks otherwise, Cresswell is
among the frontrunners for Hammer of the Year in his debut season and,
having played every league minute thus far, wants to see out a memorable
campaign in style.

"It would be an honour to take an award like that, but I don't really
concentrate on stuff like that," he said. "Of course it would be a massively
proud moment for me, but I want to try and do the best for West Ham and if
that comes, I'll be a very proud man to take that.
"I have played every minute up to now and with five games to go I want to
try and complete that. Personally and as a team it's gone well, if we finish
in the top ten I think it will have been a good season for West Ham."

But for a difficult 2015 it might have been a whole lot better and with a
top-eight finish still within reach, the 25-year-old baulks at suggestions
that the Hammers are on their holidays. Far from it, as Cresswell calls for
a late-season resurgence to begin at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday. He
continued: "It's disappointing, the 2015 we've had, considering the first
half of the season. It's definitely not the case that we're on our holidays
and that we don't care. We want to try and finish as high as we can in the
league. "We're going to go there on Saturday and obviously hope to bring the
three points back. We've got five games to go, we want to try and take as
many points as we can and finish as high up the league as possible. It's a
good place to start on QPR on Saturday."

Cresswell's performances this season have been such that Chelsea and
Manchester City are said to be among his admirers. But with a new Stadium on
the horizon and a long-term contract with the Hammers, Cresswell's focus is
exclusively Claret and Blue. "I just put it to the back of my mind. I
don't read into anything like that. You see things, get a few texts, or
whatever it may be, I don't look into it, I concentrate on playing my
football for West Ham and doing the best I can. We're all settled and what
with moving to the Stadium, I've still got four years left on my contract."

With four years to play with, Cresswell can certainly see European football
on the horizon. He, like so many, is a little puzzled by the Fair Play
points system, but would happily embrace a European berth, however it comes
about. "It would be a great thing to play in the Europa League. I'm not too
sure how the Fair Play points work, I'm not sure anyone does. "European
football would be hard, looking at the previous teams that have done it, but
for us, especially for West Ham, moving into the Stadium as well, if we
could take Europe into that, it would be massive."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Oxford selected in England U17 squad
WHUFC.com

Reece Oxford has been named in the England U17 squad as they look to retain
the European Under-17 Championship in this summer's tournament in Bulgaria.
The highly rated centre-back, who can also play in midfield, captained the
Young Lions during their qualification campaign, recording a 100 per cent
record throughout. Oxford capped off a string of impressive performances
with the opening goal in a 3-1 win over Slovenia in March. Having qualified
for the European Under-17 Championship, John Peacock's men have been handed
a tough group which will see them play Holland, Italy and Republic of
Ireland, starting with the Azzurrini on Tuesday 7 May. Speaking after
learning of England's fate, the sixteen year old, who is expected to
continue wearing the captain's armband, said: "It's a very tough draw,
almost as hard as it gets but I'm still looking forward to the tournament.
It's a very proud moment when I captain my country. "We know they will be
hard games but we've got a good squad. If we play to our best I think we can
do well."

The tournament starts on Monday 6 May with the final scheduled for Friday 22
May. We will have updates on England's progress throughout the tournament
across our platforms.

The full England squad:

Goalkeepers: Paul Woolston (Newcastle United), Will Huffer (Leeds United)

Defenders: Danny Collinge (Stuttgart), Reece Oxford (West Ham United), Easah
Suliman (Aston Villa), James Yates (Everton), Jay DaSilva (Chelsea), Tayo
Edun (Fulham)

Midfielders: Trent Arnold (Liverpool), Daniel Wright (Sunderland), Herbie
Kane (Liverpool), Tom Davies (Everton), Marcus Edwards (Tottenham Hotspur),
Nathan Holland (Everton), Chris Willock (Arsenal)

Forwards: Layton Ndukwu (Leicester City), Stephy Mavididi (Arsenal), Ike
Ugbo (Chelsea)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United deliver affordable football as season ticket prices are
slashed
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 22nd April 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's plans to deliver affordable football for all at the
Olympic Stadium were announced today.

The club have revealed price cuts across the board for all season ticket
holders from the beginning of the 2016/17 season when the club move lock,
stock and barrel to Stratford.

However the boldest step taken is perhaps the announcement of a new Band 5
season ticket priced at just £289 - undercutting the Premier League's
current cheapest season ticket, at Manchester City, by £10.

Disabled season ticket holders, who KUMB.com have campaigned on behalf of
previously regarding season ticket pricing will also receive similar
benefits. And there is further good news for families - or at least those
numbering four - who will be able to take advantage of a new family ticket
from just £776, and Under 16s too.

The key points are:

• Every season ticket price band will see a reduction as the club uses
increased broadcast revenue to offer dramatically cheaper tickets

• A new entry-level Band 5 adult season ticket will cost £289 – the cheapest
in the Premier League

• All season tickets for Under-16s will be cut to just £99 – the equivalent
of £5 per game

• A family of four can buy a season ticket for just £776 – the equivalent of
£41 per match

Every season ticket holder sitting in bands 1-4 for the final season at the
Boleyn Ground will see a reduction of at least £26 in their season ticket
price. Band 1 will come down by £26 (3%), Band 2 by £61 (7%), Band 3 by £201
(25%) and Band 4 by £151 (23%). The new £289 Band 5 season ticket represents
a cost per game of just £15.20.

The new £99 Season Ticket for Under-16s also means West Ham United will have
the cheapest season tickets for children among London's Premier League
teams, and will match Sunderland AFC as the cheapest season ticket in the
league on general sale to that age group.

Disabled supporters will also see a further reduction on the already
discounted rates they enjoy at the Boleyn Ground, with disabled Season
Ticket prices being reduced by up to £205.

Commenting on today's announcement, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "We
have always said that the move to our magnificent new Stadium would be a
game changer for West Ham: a chance to increase revenue, invest in the team
and improve our performance on the pitch, but crucially without putting an
extra financial burden on the supporters who already come to watch every
home match.

"Today's announcement proves that we have kept our promise."


Pricing

A breakdown of how the existing price bands will change as follows. Price
cut on 2015/16 season ticket prices represented as a percentage in
parenthesis:

Adult: Band 1, £899 (3%); Band 2, £799 (7%); Band 3, £599 (25%); Band 4,
£499 (23%).

Disabled Adult: Band 1, £450 (1%); Band 2, £399 (12%); Band 3, £299 (34%);
Band 4, £250 (45%).

Over-65s: Band 1, £450 (3%); Band 2, £399 (7%); Band 3, £299 (26%); Band 4,
£250 (23%).

Under-21s: Band 1, £450 (3%); Band 2, £399 (7%); Band 3, £299 (26%); Band 4,
£250 (23%).

Under-16s: Band 1-4, £99 (between 51-61% dependant on Band).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Olympic Stadium ticket pricing FAQ
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 22nd April 2015
By: West Ham United FC

For more detailed FAQs about the general process of seat selection at the
new Stadium, including the schedule of appointments at the Reservation
Centre, please click here. Or if you cannot find the answer to your
question, please email newStadium@westhamunited.co.uk.

Pricing

Which prices have been announced today?
West Ham United have announced prices for Season Tickets at their new
Stadium for the 2016/17 season; their first in the stunning new venue.

The prices stated reflect the amount that existing and new Season Ticket
Holders will pay for the 2016/17 season. Match-by-match ticket prices
(including those for away fans) will be announced in the first few months of
2016.

Why have West Ham reduced their Season Ticket prices?
The Club's Board have long been advocates of making football more affordable
for supporters and regularly offer discounts at the Club's current home in
Upton Park.

It has been their longstanding ambition to further expand that work to make
football more accessible for the everyday working man when the Club moves to
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

How will the reductions be funded? Will spending on strengthening the team
be affected?
As has been well publicised, all Premier League Clubs will benefit from the
new broadcast deal that will come into effect for the start of 2016/17 and
West Ham are the first to publicly commit to spending some of that increased
revenue on reducing Season Tickets prices for its supporters.

The increase in broadcast revenue coupled with the increased capacity at the
new Stadium means the Club can afford to dramatically reduce Season Ticket
prices without adversely affecting the plans to strengthen the team in the
summer of 2016.

Why are there different price reductions across the four bands?
With the move to the new Stadium, the Club have taken the opportunity to
create a new Season Ticket pricing structure that reflects the increased
size and layout of the new Stadium and is more balanced from top to bottom.
Applying a standard discount across all bands would have restricted our
ability to do this.

The new pricing structure has been designed to create a greater number of
affordable tickets so as many West Ham fans as possible can come and support
their team on a regular basis and ensure the Stadium is full.


Seat Selection

Can I upgrade my seat to a higher band?
Yes. Subject to availability, Season Ticket Holders will all have the option
to move into a higher price band and the Club's decisions on pricing will
make it more affordable for supporters to do so.

That is why the seat selection process is being conducted in order of price
band, from band 1 to band 4, so it is clear at each stage what seats are
available in higher price bands.

In line with the Club's seat selection principles, every Season Ticket
Holder will have first choice on the best available seats in their existing
price band before these are offered to supporters in a lower band wishing to
upgrade.

Can I choose a seat in a lower price band?
Any Season Ticket Holder wanting to choose a seat in a lower price band than
their equivalent at the Boleyn Ground may do so, but they will have to wait
until all current Season Ticket Holders from that band have had the
opportunity to select their new seat. This is to ensure Season Ticket
Holders in lower price bands get first pick of the seats in their band and
are in no way disadvantaged by the process or by their fellow supporters.

Where will each price band be located and how many seats will there be in
each?
Supporters will be able to see the location of all seats in the price bands
available to them at their Reservation Centre appointment.

I've already upgraded to Club London, am I still eligible for my Reservation
Centre appointment as an existing Season Ticket Holder?
Yes. Each and every Season Ticket Holder for the final season at the Boleyn
Ground is eligible for an appointment at the Reservation Centre.

Can I select my seat over the phone or online?
While supporters can select their seats over the phone if necessary, they
are strongly advised to attend their appointment in person to take advantage
of the cutting edge Virtual Venue technology, which will allow them to
virtually 'sit' in their seats and look at the sightlines and surroundings
that are right for them.

The Club will not have the flexibility to relocate Season Ticket Holders
once the 2016/17 season has begun, so it is important that supporters are
happy with their seats before they choose them. Supporters cannot select
their seats online.


Band 5 / 1966 Seats

Who gets priority to choose seats in the new band 5 and when do they go on
sale?
Band 5 seats will be made available after all Season Ticket Holders have had
their appointment at the Reservation Centre. Existing Season Ticket Holders
wishing to purchase in band 5 can then do so, after which supporters on the
new Stadium Season Ticket priority list will be invited to the Reservation
Centre to select from all remaining seats. It is probable that this will not
be until February 2016.

What are the 1966 Seats and why have it been introduced?
The 1966 Seats have been named to celebrate 50 years since West Ham United's
most famous sons lifted the World Cup for England.

The 1966 Seats offer the chance to enjoy a VIP experience in the East Stand,
with padded, named seats on the halfway line, a programme voucher and an
invite to an exclusive player and manager event each season.

Unlike Club London, they can be purchased on a season-by-season basis, as
opposed to committing for a three-year term. The 1966 Seats have a fixed
Season Ticket price of £1,100.

Who gets priority to choose seats in 1966 Seats?
In keeping with the Club's seat selection principles, supporters will have
the option to upgrade (subject to availability) when they attend their
Reservation Centre appointment.

Will there still be good views from band 1 seats in the East Stand?
Yes, absolutely. As the East Stand is a 'Kop' style stand with no corporate
areas, it offers a large capacity for more than 20,000 fans. Because of the
size of the Stadium and the increased capacity in each price band, there
will be sufficient seats in the halfway line section to accommodate all
supporters who currently have a comparable seat at the Boleyn Ground.

How will the seats in different price bands compare to those at the Boleyn
Ground?
The Club have guaranteed that every Season Ticket Holder will be offered a
comparable seat at the new Stadium, based on the price band and location of
their seat for the final season at the Boleyn Ground. However, given the
obvious differences in the shape, seating layout and capacity of the two
grounds, no two seats will be exactly comparable, and the quality of each
seat and sightline is subjective.


Grouping

1) Existing groups

I already sit with a group at the Boleyn Ground and we want to sit together
in the new Stadium. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Yes. Season Ticket Holders who currently sit together at the Boleyn Ground
will also be able to move as a group. When supporters receive details of
their appointment, they will be able to create and register their group
online and attend their Reservation Centre appointment together.

2) New groups

i) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in my price band,
but do not currently sit with me. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket Holders in the same price band are welcome to group together.
When supporters receive details of their appointment, they will be able to
create and register their group online and attend the Reservation Centre
together.

The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.

ii) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in different price
bands. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket Holders currently in different price bands are also welcome to
group at the new Stadium, but will be required to group with the individual
in the highest band. This is to protect the rights of Season Ticket Holders
in lower price bands and ensure that they are in no way disadvantaged by the
process or by their fellow supporters.

The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.


Bringing New Season Ticket Holders

How will introducing new Season Ticket Holders work?
Subject to availability, every Season Ticket Holder renewing for the 2016/17
season will have the opportunity to introduce up to two new Season Ticket
Holders at the new Stadium. Any existing Season Ticket Holder will be able
to bring the new Season Ticket Holders with them when they choose their seat
at their Reservation Centre appointment.

Do my two new Season Ticket Holders have to sit in the same band as me even
if I choose to upgrade?
The Club would reasonably expect that supporters bringing new Season Ticket
Holders with them will wish to sit together at the new Stadium, but they are
not required to do so.

Based on the lead Season Ticket Holder's location for the final season at
the Boleyn Ground, new Season Ticket Holders are eligible to sit in the same
band or higher at the new Stadium. This is again to protect the process and
the priority of supporters sitting in lower bands.

Why are the Club allowing Season Ticket Holders to bring two new guests with
them?
The Club fully expect the Stadium to be full come August 2016. Therefore we
wanted to give Season Ticket Holders the first chance to group with other
existing Season Ticket Holders or friends or family that previously had not
held a Season Ticket at the Boleyn Ground when they attend their
appointment.

That is why, when existing Season Ticket Holders choose their new seats, the
Club is giving them the opportunity to bring up to two of their friends or
family to become new Season Ticket Holders and sit together as a group.

The only practical way of doing that is to allow those new Season Ticket
Holders to choose their seats at the same time as the existing Season Ticket
Holder who is introducing them.

With the increased capacity at the new Stadium and the fact that every seat
offers an excellent view of the action, the Club are confident that all such
requests can be accommodated without affecting the quality of the options
available to other existing Season Ticket Holders still waiting to choose
their seats.


Payment

How do I confirm my seat at my Reservation Centre appointment?
Season Ticket Holders will be asked to pay a non-refundable 25 per cent
deposit of their total ticket price at the end of their Reservation Centre
appointment to secure their seat. The remaining 75 per cent will be due by
June 2016, in line with the normal window for Season Ticket renewals.

A deposit is required as at all times, the Club need to know precisely which
seats have been allocated to ensure that supporters who are still to select
their seats have access to the best seats still available.

Without some form of financial commitment from Season Ticket Holders, this
would prove exceptionally difficult. The Club is therefore asking supporters
for a 25 per cent deposit to secure their chosen seat, which is payable at
the Reservation Centre appointment.

Will I still be able to pay for my Season Ticket on finance?
Supporters are able to finance the cost of their season ticket through our
Finance Partner V12 Finance. There will be two options available:

• Finance the entire season ticket upfront with payments starting one month
after your successful application
• Pay your deposit and apply for finance in June of 2016 in line with normal
Season Ticket renewals


Concessions

What concessions are the Club offering children?
The Club have introduced a flat rate £99 Season Ticket fee for all
under-16s, which is ten per cent cheaper than the old flat rate for
under-10s, and considerably cheaper for those older children who previously
bought Season Tickets in the 10-16 age category. This represents a massive
saving all round for young people and their parents.

Will there be a family seating section in the new Stadium?
Yes. The Club's Reservation Centre adviser will be able to provide
information about the family seating options available to each Season Ticket
Holder at their appointment.

Will all under-16s qualifying for £99 tickets have to sit in family seating
sections?
No, the rules will be exactly the same as at the Boleyn Ground. There will
be a flat rate of £99 for under-16 Season Ticket Holders in bands 1,2,3 and
4 and in the new band 5.

All under-14s must be accompanied by a full paying adult in all areas of the
Stadium. Within the family seating sections, there must be at least one
under-16 supporter per two individuals over that age.


Accessibility Seating

Accessibility seating has historically had a price band of its own at the
Boleyn Ground, so where do disabled fans sit in the priority order?
All disabled supporters, both wheelchair users and ambulant, will be entered
into the same process as all other Season Ticket Holders and the scheduling
of their Reservation Centre appointment will be based on their location at
the Boleyn Ground for the final season.

The Club are contacting all disabled supporters to advise them of which band
they currently sit in.

As a wheelchair user, can I bring additional guests and can they sit with
me?
As with the current operation, all disabled supporters are entitled to a
complimentary carer seat located next to their seat. If any additional seats
are required, the Reservation Centre staff will endeavour to seat them as
close as possible but it cannot be guaranteed that they will be directly
next to one another.

How has the new pricing for accessible seating been determined?
West Ham United already offer some of the best rates for disabled fans in
the Premier League but felt it was important that disabled fans enjoyed a
discount like all other Season Ticket Holders at the new Stadium.

The disabled adult Season Ticket price is still approximately 50% of the
full adult price, while concessions will see further discounts on that price
of up to 28%.

Disclaimer: all answers provided are correct at the time of publishing and
may be subject to change.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham unveil cheapest Premier League season tickets
Last Updated: 22/04/15 2:57pm
SSN

West Ham have announced the cheapest season tickets in the top flight for
next season. The club unveiled the major price cuts a day after they said it
was "categorically wrong" that the move to the Olympic Stadium had been
subsidised by the UK taxpayer. Hammers joint-chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold and vice-chairman Karren Brady have been keen to make football
more affordable for fans.
Wednesday's announcement backed up their pledge to help supporters as West
Ham became the first Premier League club to use the increased broadcast
revenue for the 2016/17 season to reduce ticket prices. Brady said: "We have
always said that the move to our magnificent new stadium would be a game
changer for West Ham: a chance to increase revenue, invest in the team and
improve our performance on the pitch, but crucially without putting an extra
financial burden on the supporters who already come to watch every home
match. "The announcement proves that we have kept our promise."

Every season ticket holder sitting in bands 1-4 for the final season at the
Boleyn Ground will see a reduction of at least £26 in their season ticket
price. A new £289 Band 5 season ticket will become the cheapest in the
Premier League based on the 2014/15 prices and represents a cost per game of
£15.20. All season tickets for the under 16s will be cut to £99 - meaning a
cost of £5.21 per match. West Ham were awarded a 99-year licence to rent the
Olympic Stadium last year. After suggestions that the move to the stadium
could still be in contravention of European state aid laws, Brady told Sky
Sports News HQ: "We are making a huge contribution to the conversion and a
huge contribution to the revenue. "Without us there's no lynchpin in the
stadium to create the jobs and to create the legacy. We're confident we
haven't done anything wrong."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll: West Ham players "love" Sam Allardyce and want him to stay on
as boss
18:22, 22 April 2015 By Neil McLeman
The Irons manager faces an uncertain future and his case for a new contract
has been hit by a run of only two wins in their last 16 Premier League games
The Mirror

Andy Carroll has claimed all the West Ham players "love" Sam Allardyce and
want him to stay next season. The Irons manager's case for a new contract
has been hit by a run of only two wins in their last 16 Premier League
games. But £15m signing Carroll insisted: "Everyone loves him, everyone
loves the training and the routine we are in. I am sure all the lads want
him to stay next season. "The manager is strong enough to deal with that
(run) and I think so are all the players. It is just unlucky the way the
games have been going." Carroll, now 26, has made only 46 Premier League
starts since moving to Upton Park in August 2012 because of a series of
injuries. "It is just the way I play - aggressive play," said the England
striker. "In training I am not like that. "I take my foot off the gas a
little bit with our players but as soon as I am on the pitch, I don't think
anyone can stop me running about like I do throwing myself into challenges."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
OS "state aid" claim threatens can of worms
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Renewed claims have arisen this week that West Ham could be investigated by
the European Commission that it will be receiving state funding when it
moves to the Olympic Stadium in 2016. The Guardian newspaper ran a story
yesterday on the back of a Freedom of Information request from Charlton
Athletic Supporters Trust who have been campaigning that the rental
agreement between West Ham United and LLDC be made public. There seems to be
a much wider problem across much of Europe with regards to state funding of
football. Eighteen months ago the European commission started an
investigation into seven Spanish clubs including Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Fellow La Liga teams Osasuna, Athletic Bilbao, Valencia, Elche and
second-tier Hercules are under investigation. Real are alleged to have sold
training ground land to the City of Madrid at an over-inflated price of
22.7m euros.Valencia-based clubs Valencia, Hercules and Elche are alleged to
have received state-backed loans up to 75m euros.

In response to the renewed Guardian claims yesterday a West Ham spokesman
said: "West Ham United is confident that its agreement with the LLDC
complies with all relevant UK and European legislation and categorically
does not constitute state aid. "Indeed, the European Commission looked into
a complaint in relation to our move to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in 2013
but 'decided not to further pursue' the matter. "The club was selected as
anchor concessionaire following a fair, transparent and robust process that
was open to any group or organisation in the country. Out of the four
proposals submitted, West Ham's was selected as it delivered a sustainable
and viable future for the Stadium and, crucially, provided the best return
for the taxpayer. "The agreement with the LLDC will see West Ham make a
substantial capital contribution towards the conversion works of a Stadium
that it may only rent for up to 25 matchdays a year, pay a multimillion
pound annual usage fee, as well as offering a share of food and catering
sales from its supporters. "The worldwide draw of hosting the most popular
and watched football league in the world in such an iconic venue will add
value to any sponsorship and commercial agreements related to the Stadium,
which the public purse stands to further benefit from. "It is clear that the
linking of the naming rights to West Ham United generates real cash value
for the LLDC. Without West Ham United, the Stadium would continue to cost
the taxpayer millions of pounds a year. "With us, the public purse will see
a return on the hundreds of millions of pounds that were committed to build
the Stadium, long before West Ham's association had begun."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benitez on PL links
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Rafa Benitez has declared that he has had no contact with Manchester City
but perhaps significantly has not mentioned West Ham in an interview with
the Italian Press. The former Liverpool and Chelsea boss is to have talks
with Napoli when his current deal ends this summer and said: "I have not had
contacts with City, unlike what I've read in England. "I have spoken to the
(Napoli) president via messages but we have not been able to meet due to our
busy playing schedule in order to evaluate the business plan. "Now our focus
is on matters on the pitch." Benitez joined Napoli in the summer of 2013 and
led the Naples outfit to the Coppa Italia title and third place in Serie A
in his first season in charge. Napoli are fourth in the league this term and
are firmly on course to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Teddy wants Pompey job
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret 7 Hugh

The Portsmouth News understands that West Ham attacking coach Teddy
Sheringham is among 60-70 realistic candidates to declare their interest in
the Portsmouth manager role vacated by Andy Awford last week. They claim
sources close to Sheringham say the 49-year-old is ready to move into
football management and sees Fratton Park as the ideal starting point. The
former West Ham and Portsmouth striker was appointed Hammer's attacking
coach on a part-time basis back in May 2014. With Allardyce's own job is
under serious doubt with his contract expiring this summer it also raises
question marks over the futures of his back room staff including assistant
boss Neil McDonald, coach Ian Hendon and Teddy Sheringham. Teddy scored 10
goals in 38 appearances for Pompey during their maiden season in the Premier
League in 2003-04. The striker's hat-trick in a 4-0 Fratton Park success
over Bolton in the third match of the season even lifted Harry Redknapp's
side into top spot.

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Charlton Trust lodge Irons OS complaint
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Charlton Athletic Supporters Trust (CAST) has filed multiple complaints
with the European Commission on illegal state aid which it claims West Ham
United has received as a result of its future tenancy of the Olympic
Stadium.

CAST argued that West Ham could never afford to build a new stadium like the
Olympic with their own resources (and they used Arsenal as a precedent, both
to show how a club had done it on its own, and to show the cost of such a
stadium).

They argued that West Ham are getting "a leg up" against all other Premier
League clubs, but the biggest effect would be on those who fell into their
enhanced catchment area namely Orient, Charlton and Millwall. They asked
the EC to show specifically how West Ham's case might differ from those of
the Dutch clubs already investigated for breaching illegal state aid rules.

The EC claim it doesn't constitute unfair state aid because the money
lavished on the Olympic Stadium refit does not flow directly to West Ham.
The LLDC argue (and the EC seem to accept) that the Dutch cases were
different because the clubs already occupied the stadia which were improved

CAST have also submitted a number of requests using Freedom of Information
rights, to get a copy of the rental contract between the LLDC and West Ham
United. The Trust claim LLDC wriggled and squirmed in their attempts to
avoid sending it. Eventually, they sent "it" but with every word and number
of any use blacked out, on the grounds of "commercial confidentiality".

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Brady offers no Allardyce assurances
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Karren Brady has shifted her perceived position on the future of Sam
Allardyce and admitted he has found fan discontent hard to handle.
Many believed the vice chairman had indicated the 60 year old would still be
in place next season during a Sky Sports interview yesterday (Tues). But
speaking on the Alan BrazilkSports Breakfast show at TalksPORT she said:
"Sam Allardyce is a good manager. He will always have our respect and
whatever happens with West Ham, his future is bright. "He's a good manager,
but he has to make sure he's happy at West Ham. We have to sit down and
calculate what we do privately, and respectfully, with him. "We have the
same plan this year as we've had every other time his contract has run out.
We'll sit down at the end of the season, discuss the season that's gone past
and decide how to go forward. "Everything comes into the decision, not least
of all how fans are feeling. There have been times when the supporters have
been on his back and he has found that time very difficult to deal with."

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Karren's Sam interview raises a smile
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Karren Brady waded into the great Sam Allardyce debate leaving the distinct
impression that all is at peace in the West Ham world.
I read her words with interest and was asked by a family member as I did so
why a huge smile had spread across my face. The vice chairman said: "We have
to see what he wants to do going forwards. That's how these things work.

"What sort of money does he want to invest in players? What positions does
he want? Those are the conversation you always have, typically, at the end
of the season and we make an arrangement going forwards. That's still our
intention."

She gave us a bit of spin about it having been a good season ( yeah of
course!) and that his relationship with the board was good adding:"I think
we have, as a board, always made it clear that we sit down with Sam at the
end of every season."

Now let's get to it! We all know this board will not be moved from making an
end of season decision even if they perhaps should.

Given that they have to support the manager because, hey, there are four
games left and several millions available in league positioning.

This is not a love affair between the manager or anyone above – it's all
about dough and anything other than a public show of support is not to be
expected.

I'd only be surprised if Karren had said: "We know it's all over and we'll
let you know that next month. Given the circumstances they have imposed on
themselves her statement was entirely predictable.

The manager hunt continues and whilst on that I'm off to have a few quid on
Marcelo Bielsa!

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Brady: no assurances for Sam
Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 22, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Sam Allardyce is a good manager," Hammers Vice Chairman Karren Brady told
the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show on Talk Sport radio this morning. "He
will always have our respect and whatever happens with West Ham, his future
is bright. He's a good manager, but he has to make sure he's happy at West
Ham. We have to sit down and calculate what we do privately, and
respectfully, with him. We have the same plan this year as we've had every
other time his contract has run out. We'll sit down at the end of the
season, discuss the season that's gone past and decide how to go forward.
Everything comes into the decision, not least of all how fans are feeling.
There have been times when the supporters have been on his back and he has
found that time very difficult to deal with."

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Aaron Cresswell: I'm staying at West Ham despite recent Chelsea speculation
HITC
Olly Dawes

West Ham defender Aaron Cresswell is ignoring speculation over his future.
West Ham left back Aaron Cresswell has told the Daily Mirror that he's happy
at Upton Park despite recent speculation about his future. Cresswell, 25,
has gradually made his way up through the league system, impressing with
Tranmere Rovers and Ipswich Town before earning his move to West Ham last
summer. The left back has been one of West Ham's best players this season,
producing consistent displays, as well as chipping in with goals and assists
in a superb first campaign in the Premier League. His excellent displays
have triggered calls for England recognition, whilst recent reports from the
Daily Mail have suggested that Chelsea and Manchester City are interested in
deals to sign Cresswell this summer. It's been a meteoric rise for
Cresswell, and after just one season at West Ham, he could be on the move
again - but West Ham will surely put up a fight to keep him in East London.
Now, Cresswell has told the Daily Mirror that whilst it's nice to be linked
with big teams like Chelsea and Manchester City, he is focusing on his
career at West Ham. "Obviously Its nice to see things like that," said
Cresswell. "But I have four years left on my West Ham contract and I'm very
happy down here." "I don't read into it or look into stuff like that. I just
concentrate on doing my best for West Ham. I have still got four years left
on my contract and it's what I'm enjoying at the minute," he added. Those
comments will fill West Ham fans with hope that Cresswell will stay with the
club for some time yet - but they will also know that another strong season
next term would only ramp up interest in his signature.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady angers Premier League rivals with ticket price boast
West Ham vice-chairman's claim that all clubs should emulate their
season-ticket price reduction – as they try to fill the Olympic Stadium –
results in hypocrisy accusations
Telegraph.co.uk
By Matt Law, and Chris Bascombe7:35PM BST 22 Apr 2015

Karren Brady is facing a frosty reception in Premier League boardrooms over
her claims that West Ham United are acting as ticket-price trailblazers.
West Ham have also opened themselves up to accusations of hypocrisy over
their ticket pricing by charging Everton fans £55 for their meaningless
final home game of the season. Vice-chairman Brady announced on Wednesday
that West Ham will reduce season ticket prices in their 54,000-seater
Olympic Stadium as a result of the Premier League's record television deal.
Brady, however, has also caused dismay inside boardrooms up and down the
country by claiming other Premier League clubs will emulate West Ham. "I am
sure other Premier League clubs will follow," said Brady. "I go to all the
Premier League meetings and ticket pricing and making it affordable is
always the highest topic on the agenda."
Telegraph Sport understands that Brady's comments have been badly received
by a host of Premier League clubs, many of whom have announced price freezes
for next season, but cannot afford to cut prices. The view inside many rival
boardrooms is that West Ham are in the unique position of having effectively
been given a new stadium that they do not have to pay for and have to find a
way of filling an extra 19,000 seats. West Ham are spending £2.5million a
year to rent their new ground and have consistently refuted suggestions that
they are not paying their way. They are also confident they will fill the
Olympic Stadium.

The Hammers are making contributions to the conversion of the stadium to
host football matches and will give up a portion of the money they receive
from any naming rights. Brady's claims were followed by a statement from the
Football Supporters' Federation urging other Premier League clubs to emulate
West Ham's pricing policy. West Ham's cheapest adult season ticket for their
first season at their new stadium in 2016-17 will cost £289 and all season
tickets for Under-16s will be cut to £99. Malcolm Clarke, chair of FSF,
said: "The FSF strongly believes that top-flight clubs should use their
newly signed media deal to cut ticket prices for both home and away
supporters.
"We hope that other clubs follow suit and reduce ticket prices across the
board, as West Ham have done. "West Ham have thrown down the gauntlet to
other clubs — who can offer the cheapest season ticket prices in the top
flight?" Everton supporters were left disputing claims that West Ham are
setting a good example after finding out they will have to pay £55 for their
trip to Upton Park on May 16.
Despite the fact the fixture will have no significance on either European
qualification or the Premier League relegation zone, West Ham have made the
game a Category A match.

West Ham have justified the decision by pointing out that the club's final
home game of the season is virtually always made a Category A game because
of end-of-season events such as the presentation of the Hammer of the Year
award. Travelling Everton fans are unlikely to be placated by the fact that
they will see the West Ham player of the year crowned ahead of kick-off.
Everton supporter Kathy Keig said: "I feel absolutely exploited by West Ham.
Charging £55 for a ticket is pure exploitation and they're exploiting
Everton fans because they know we will turn up and sell out. Last season we
paid £42 for the same ticket, so that's a 30 per cent increase, which is
ridiculous and can't be justified."

West Ham's rivals Tottenham Hotspur, who have frozen season-ticket prices
for the 2015-16 campaign, also plan to move into a new stadium for the
2018-19 season, but are unlikely to reduce ticket prices because they need
to fund their new 56,000-seater arena.

Chelsea announced in February that they have frozen ticket prices next
season for a fourth year in a row, but it is understood that their pricing
is under continual review. The Stamford Bridge club have announced a change
to their distribution of match tickets for Champions League games next
season, following the incident at a Paris Métro station when a black man was
racially abused. Chelsea supporters will now have to pick up their match
tickets from a collection point in the city or town where the tie is taking
place, rather than collecting tickets from the Stamford Bridge ticket
office. Manchester United operate a similar system and Chelsea hope the
change in distribution will reduce the chances of tickets being passed on or
resold.

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Daily WHUFC News - 22nd April 2015

Potts pleased to be back in action
WHUFC.com

Dan Potts is hoping his injury issues are behind him after making a welcome return to action for West Ham United. A fractured ankle and surgery to right a long-standing knee problem have restricted the home-grown left-back to just one first-team and seven Development Squad appearances in 2014/15. The defender celebrated turning 21 last week by returning to the pitch in the Development Squad's 2-1 Barclays U21 Premier League defeat by Norwich City on Friday. "It's definitely been a long few months for me, so to get back out on the pitch was a good feeling," Potts told West Ham TV. "I was disappointed with the way the game turned out in the last 15 minutes, but personally I felt good. "I didn't expect to get the full 90 minutes but I managed it as I went on and felt really good, which was pleasing."

After starting the Hammers' Capital One Cup tie with Sheffield United in August, Potts' luck has been out, with a pair of long-term injuries restricting his opportunities to add to the 13 first-team appearances he has made over the past three-and-a-half-seasons. "Against Liverpool at the start of the season, I had the bad luck of fracturing my ankle in a bad fall, but I came through that OK and recovered quickly and got back out there," he explained. "However, I had an ongoing problem with my knee which we tried to keep on top of without surgery. "We saw a specialist at the turn of the year and he suggested surgery. I had that done, got through it and had a lengthy lay-off of eight or nine weeks before coming back to training. I feel good as new, so from that point of view it is very pleasing.
"It was good to get it solved and be back out there pain-free."

Potts' pleasure at making a successful return was tempered by the frustration of seeing two late goals deny the Development Squad a deserved victory over Norwich at Rush Green. Playing alongside newly-signed professional Manny Onariase, the centre-backs looked in control before two late errors allowed the Canaries' full-backs to turn the game on its head in the final six minutes. "The disappointing thing was that I felt we were comfortable and in control throughout the game and they didn't have a sniff, aside from one chance when Sam Howes pulled off a good save," Potts observed. "I felt in control of the game and I think most of the boys did too, especially Manny alongside me. Their lad up front was a big unit and you're going to get that, but I felt we dealt with that well.
"It was just the last few minutes and a lack of concentration for both goals. You can't do that at this level because you'll get punished like we did on Friday. "When you're in that position, especially when you're winning, it's disappointing. It all boils down to results and winning the game. On Friday night we played well but we lost the game and the boys came in deflated."

While Friday may have been frustrating for Potts, the bigger picture is much brighter, with the No33 targeting a strong return to regular action next season. "This year has been frustrating and is definitely one to forget in that respect, but it's coming to the end of the season and I'm trying to get my fitness back and look ahead to next year," he concluded. "I'll be ready for pre-season and ready to go again in pre-season and hopefully luck will be on my side."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jenko: Our dressing room is fired up
WHUFC.com

Carl Jenkinson insisted his Hammers' teammates are more motivated than ever to secure a top half finish following the 2-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday. City's goals came courtesy of a freak James Collins own goal followed by a swift counter attack finished coolly by Sergio Aguero, and that was enough to collect the three points for the Citizens.

Speaking after the match, the 23-year-old right back said: "Our dressing room is fired up. If you go in the dressing room after the game people aren't resting on their laurels, people aren't happy finishing mid table. "We want to kick on, we've got things to prove because we've been on a bad run recently and we want to put that right for us and the fans."

Jenkinson continued to praise a City squad comprising of world class players, particularly Sergio Aguero and Joe Hart, both of which put in impressive displays. Describing how tough it is to play against the current Premier League champions, especially away at the Etihad Stadium, the defender explained: "City were good, I always expected a backlash because results haven't been going their way. "It's what you expect when you play a City side, they've got world class players all over the pitch and they showed it at times. "It is tough because they've got players rotating all the time, sometimes it's hard to know who to mark with players coming in and out of different positions."

Despite catching City in a dominant mood, Jenkinson maintained that the Hammers had put in a resolute performance while Enner Valencia showed glimpses of being back to his best after recovering from injury. "To be honest I thought we defended well, the first goal was a bit of a freak goal and the second was something that could've been avoided. "It was difficult once we conceded the first goal like that, it took the stuffing out of us a little bit. I thought we had defended well right up until that point. Obviously it was disappointing but these things happen, there's no one pointing the finger at Ginge. "Enner looks very confident at the moment and I'm happy for him because he's been out for a few weeks. He's been very sharp in training and he's showed it today with his run in the second half. "I'm happy for him and we're going to need him because it looks like we're going to be without Diafra Sakho for a while. It's good for Enner because it looks like he'll play a big part for us for the rest of the season."

Up next for the Hammers is a short trip across London to play Queens Park Rangers. With the R's fighting for their Premier League status, Jenkinson is expecting a stern test come Saturday afternoon. "Of course Queens Park Rangers need every point they can get but so do we. We want to finish as high up the league table as possible, after they start we had we're not just going to accept a mid-table finish. QPR need the points but we need to play our part 100 per cent."

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West Ham reduce ticket prices after record television deal
BBC.co.uk

West Ham have become the first club to announce they will reduce season ticket prices as a result of the Premier League's record television deal. Sky and BT Sport have paid £5.13bn for live Premier League television rights for three seasons from 2016-17.
West Ham's cheapest adult season ticket in that season will cost £289, down from between £620 and £940 for the 2014-15 campaign.
The 2016-17 season will be the club's first playing in the Olympic Stadium. West Ham's vice-chairman Karren Brady said: "We have always said that the move to our magnificent new stadium would be a game changer for West Ham. It was a chance to increase revenue, invest in the team and improve our performance on the pitch, but without putting an extra financial burden on the supporters who already come to watch every home match. "This announcement proves we have kept our promise."

Although the cost of season tickets at West Ham are rising for the 2015-16 season by a maximum of 5%, they will fall again for the following campaign as the new television deal begins. The Olympic Stadium will have 19,000 more seats than the 35,016 at West Ham's current home, Upton Park, with the club paying £2m a year to rent their new ground. If they are still in the Premier League in 2016-17, the club say their cheapest adult season tickets will cost £289, which represents a price of £15.20 for each of their 19 home league games.

All season tickets for under 16s will be cut to £99 - £5.21 per match. Since the television deal was announced, there have been protests at a number of Premier League clubs, including Crystal Palace and Liverpool, with supporters angry at the cost of watching football.
BBC Sport's Price of Football survey showed that 15 of the 20 Premier League teams offered cheaper 2014-15 season tickets than West Ham.
Manchester City had the cheapest tickets at £299, although the Hammers' lowest price for 2016-17 is £10 less than that.

However, Malcolm Clarke, chairman of the Football Supporters' Federation, has called for more details to be revealed and for more clubs to drop their prices. He told BBC Sport: "Any reduction is welcome so two cheers for West Ham for that. "But before we give them three cheers, we await to see what they do about price categories, what they do about away fans and what they do with ordinary admission. "We're hopeful this is the first of many moves by the clubs to significantly reduce ticket prices. We will definitely keep up the pressure to ensure it happens. "Now the other clubs have a year to respond so let's see who can offer the lowest season ticket in a year's time."
Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore said: "West Ham's announcement is further evidence that Premier League clubs do offer stretch pricing, and think about providing opportunities for families and young people when considering ticket offers for their fans."

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Sheringham set for Pompey role?
KUMb.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st April 2015
By: Staff Writer

Former Portsmouth striker Teddy Sheringham is being linked with a return to his former club - as manager. West Ham United's part-time attacking coach currently works two days a week at Chadwell Heath but could be back in full-time employment before too long, if reports of the 49-year-old's interest in returning to the South Coast prove correct. The News claimed this afternoon that Sheringham, who also featured for England and Manchester United during a glittering playing career has thrown his hat into the ring to replace the recently-outed Andy Awford. Sheringham's application - one of around 60 the club are believed to have received have received, according to the local press - will be discussed later this week by the seven-man Board as they seek a replacement for Awford. Both Nigel Adkins and Mark Warburton are understood to have already turned down the opportunity to move to Fratton Park. Sheringham spent just one season with Portmouth, in 2003/04, under Harry Redknapp. He scored ten goals in 38 appearances for Pompey that season including a hat-trick against Bolton, making his the oldest player ever to score three in one game in the Premier League.

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West Ham deny 'state aid' charge
KUMb.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st April 2015
By: Staff Writer

A spokesman for West Ham has insisted that the club have done nothing wrong and have no concerns regarding a potential legal challenge over the club's move to Stratford.

It was claimed earlier that West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium may once again be in jeopardy after revelations regarding the club's failure to correctly follow protocol with regards to state aid applications were published by the Guardian.

However a spokesman for the club has told the (local) Guardian that they remain fully confident of completing the move without any hitches.

"West Ham United is confident that its agreement with the LLDC complies with all relevant UK and European legislation and categorically does not constitute state aid," they said.

"Indeed, the European Commission looked into a complaint in relation to our move to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in 2013 but 'decided not to further pursue' the matter.

"The club was selected as anchor concessionaire following a fair, transparent and robust process that was open to any group or organisation in the country. Without West Ham United, the Stadium would continue to cost the taxpayer millions of pounds a year.

"With us, the public purse will see a return on the hundreds of millions of pounds that were committed to build the Stadium, long before West Ham's association had begun."

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Kouyate issues apology to Silva
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st April 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United midfielder Cheik Kouyate has published a series of tweets apologising for the incident that left Manchester City's David Silva writhing in agony during Sunday's clash with Manchester City.

The diminutive Spanish international was left rolling around on the floor in agony after he collided with Kouyate during Sunday's match, which the hosts won 2-0.

The Senegal international was accused by Sky Sports pundits Glenn Hoddle and Niall Quinn of all people) of deliberately attempting to injure Silva - claims that have been dismissed by representatives of both clubs since.

However Kouyate still felt it necessary to apologise to Silva for the challenge, which saw him stretchered off the pitch on Sunday.


cheikhou kouyate 8 ✔ @PapiCheikhou
I would like to say to @21LVA that I am very sorry that you were injured during the match on Sunday, but it was not my intention 1/3

cheikhou kouyate 8 ✔ @PapiCheikhou
I went for the ball and my eyes were on the ball. I always play the ball and never the player 2/3

cheikhou kouyate 8 ✔ @PapiCheikhou
You are a great guy and a great player @21LVA and I hope you are back on the field very soon 3/3

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Jurgen reports a load of Klopp, says Brady
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st April 2015
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United have dismissed reports linking the club with a move for Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp. The highly-rated 47-year-old is expected to leave the Bundesliga at the end of the season and move to England, with Liverpool and Manchester City cited as Klopp's most likely destinations. However he was linked with the West Ham job earlier this week by the Mirror, who claimed West Ham had been in contact with Klopp's representatives with view to succeeding Sam Allardyce this summer. That speculation caused a wave of excitement amongst Hammers fans posting on the KUMB Forum and social media this week, with some convinced the club were set to pull off a major coup by persuading the German to move to London. But those hopes were dashed this afternoon by Ken Dyer, writing for the Standard, who was told by a source within the club that the rumours were "not true". Dyer's story was supported later in the day by West Ham's vice-chairman Karren Brady, who told Sky Sports News that the speculation was "just nonsense". Klopp, who had been at Dortmund since 2008 has guided his club to two Bundesliga titles, two German Supercup wins and a Champions League runner-up spot during his tenure. He has also won two German Manager of the Year awards (2011, 2012) and been named runner-up in the 2013 FIFA World Coach of the Year award.

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West Ham issue defence of Olympic Stadium move amid claims of 'state aid'
By Lia Hervey, Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 21/04/15 5:17pm
SSN

Karren Brady has told Sky Sports News HQ it is "categorically wrong" that West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium has been subsidised by the UK taxpayer. The West Ham Vice Chair spoke to Sky Sports News HQ after it was suggested that West Ham's plan to move into the Olympic Stadium could still be in contravention of European state aid laws. "The suggestion that we're subsidised is categorically wrong - we pay our way in that stadium," said Baroness Brady. "There was an anonymous complaint made to the body you're talking about (the LLDC) and they decided there wasn't a case to answer. "So it's not really a matter for us, it's a matter for the LLDC but they did a robust bidding procedure, there were four bids and ours was the best offer in financial terms and in terms of legacy. "We are making a huge contribution to the conversion and a huge contribution to the revenue. Without us there's no lynchpin in the stadium to create the jobs and to create the legacy. We're confident we haven't done anything wrong."

Andrew Boff, a representative from the London Assembly, has questioned the move and said there could be 'chaos' if the European Commission rule against it. The football club, who were awarded a 99-year license to rent the Olympic Stadium last year, will pay £15m towards those costs and believe their presence in the arena will be of financial benefit to the taxpayer. But the deal is not without its critics, who are concerned at the way a taxpayer-funded stadium has been handed over to a football club and the ongoing costs it will incur to local authorities. "West Ham move in next season and I would rather see this raised now than see the chaos if they were asked to leave, if it is found their move goes against the rules for state aid," Boff told Sky Sports News HQ. "They've been given the lease on a peppercorn rent. The stadium cost us as much as £650m of taxpayers money. There's a £40m loan coming from the residents of Tower Hamlets, and there are various other things that could be seen as taxpayers money going in to supporting a private firm. "It would only be sensible, therefore, that they should have checked with the European Commission whether this move wasn't illegal. I'm not entirely sure it isn't illegal. "A reference needs to be made now and it needs to be rubber stamped by the EU Commission. I can't picture the chaos there would be from the EC ruling against these arrangements and West Ham having to leave the Olympic Stadium and be homeless. That's not a good future for the club."

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Jurgen Klopp not a West Ham target, says Karren Brady
Last Updated: 21/04/15 5:22pm
SSN

West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady says reports that the club have approached Jurgen Klopp to take over as manager are "nonsense". Klopp has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs since it was confirmed that he was leaving Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season. Reports in the press on Tuesday morning hinted that the Hammers were among those to have spoken to him, but that is talk Brady has rejected out of hand. Speculation has also been swirling about Allardyce's future at Upton Park, but Brady revealed no decisions have been made and they will not be broached until the end of the season. "It is just nonsense," she told Sky Sports. "Sam is the manager, we have talked to him about sitting down at the end of the season, which we will do. "We have to see what he wants to do going forwards. That's how these things work. "What sort of money does he want to invest in players? What positions does he want? Those are the conversation you always have, typically, at the end of the season and we make an arrangement going forwards. That's still our intention. "I think we have, as a board, always made it clear that we sit down with Sam at the end of every season. We've done that since he has joined us and we've done that when his contract has run out before. "So nothing has changed in that respect. I think our performances - there has been one or two recent ones that haven't been great - overall have definitely improved. "The team have done very well, we haven't been able to get the results we wanted but the performances have been good. "Sam has had a good season, we've had a few recent disappointing results - he would be more disappointed than anyone. But, overall, the relationship with Sam is good. He has done what we have asked of him."

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HOW WAS THIS FIASCO ALLOWED TO HAPPEN?
By Brian Williams 21 Apr 2015 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die

It's a strange feeling being on a train from Brighton, headed to Upton Park in the certain knowledge that West Ham aren't going to give away a heartbreaking last-minute goal, nor be the innocent victim of diabolical refereeing decisions.

I should have been a happy Hammer knowing that nothing could go wrong on the pitch for once. But I was far from pleased as I was transported from the south coast to this nation's glorious capital city. In fact, I had the right hump.

The reason? I wasn't going to London E13 to watch West Ham play. This was on Saturday and, as you will all be aware, we had no game that day. I was making the trip because of the shambles that surrounded the club's botched attempts to finalise the season ticket allocation for 2015/16.

I wanted to swap seats because I sit next to an aisle, which is choc-a-bloc with late arrivals trying to find their designated places for 10 minutes after kick-off, and equally packed with eager beavers looking to get a flyer 10 minutes before the final whistle (is it just me, or these generally the same people?). Five minutes either side of half-time isn't funny either.

Not being blessed with X-ray vision, any action to my right-hand side remains a mystery to me unless I stand up – which only adds to the problem for the people around me. And as I sit in line with the edge of the penalty box in the south-east corner of the ground, a good deal of the action takes place to my right.

Why the club doesn't marshal supporters properly has baffled me ever since we were all made to sit down by Lord Justice Taylor. Go to a cricket match and try taking your seat whenever you feel like it – you'll be bang out of luck. There was a time when the convention was simply that spectators didn't move behind the bowler's arm; now, at well-attending matches, there are stewards preventing you disturbing those around you during play in all parts of the stadium. Quite right too. Yet at Upton Park people are regularly allowed to loiter in the gangways no matter what is happening on the pitch. And don't tell me football doesn't have the same breaks in play that you get at cricket. As someone who has watched an array of damaged claret and blue manhood being helped from the pitch after sustaining major injuries each requiring several minutes' treatment this season, I would beg to differ.

Like everyone else who wanted to relocate or buy a ticket on behalf of another loyal supporter keen to play their part in our final fling at the Boleyn Ground, I wasn't able to do so when I renewed my season ticket – we all had to wait for Friday's renewal deadline to pass and then take part in a giant bunfight held over the weekend. And you could only participate in person or over the phone. No online or postal applications were possible at this stage.

The phone lines opened at 9am on Saturday morning. At 9.01, having listened to the preliminaries and selected Option Three as instructed, I was informed I was number 144 in the queue. That didn't surprise me. What did was the added titbit of information that the estimated waiting time was one minute. An hour later I was comfortably down to double figures in the queue, but the repeated assertion that the waiting time would be a minute, or possibly two, which punctuated the strangled version of Bubbles that you get when you ring the ticket office would have been laughable if it hadn't been so annoying.

Then things got exciting. Suddenly I was up to No 8. Then I went back to 50-something. Then I was in the teens. Then I went to No 37. And there I stayed as the waiting time went up to three minutes, four minutes … seven minutes … ten minutes. As it turned out, my overall waiting time was 93 minutes – each minute costing me 10p and an increasing imbalance in the systolic and diastolic readings that make up my blood pressure.

But, finally, I was head of the queue. The recorded messages were over and I was on the verge of talking to a real person and sorting out my relocation. Apple Mac users describe the spinning coloured icon that appears when their computer has crashed as the Beachball of Death. What I got next was the telephonic equivalent: the continuous Bassnote of Despair that means you've been cut off.

It's not the first time it's happened to me, although that didn't make me any less gutted. I tried to call the ticket office again, and learned that if I wanted to hang on I would be No 133 in the queue (with a waiting time of one minute). This time I ended the call, and emailed the ticket office explaining what had happened – only to receive an automated reply explaining that everyone was busy dealing with season ticket requests and no one would have time to look at emails until Monday morning. The cat knows the look on my face that resulted from me reading that message does not bode well for him, and he wisely scarpered.

It was now 10.50. The next train to London from Brighton was the 11.08. And I was on it. I got to the ground shortly after 1pm, and walked straight up to a vacant window in the West Stand ticket office where the extremely helpful Leah found me three highly desirable seats in the East Stand Upper in a matter of moments.

Equally helpful were the stewards who were prepared to take me round to inspect my new seats, thus giving me the unmissable chance to effectively have the stadium to myself. I even had my picture taken sitting in Sam Allardyce's seat (could we, for today at least, park the debate about who should be sat there next season?).

Move over Big Sam
The people at the ground on Saturday were a credit to the club (there wasn't a managerial suit in sight, of course). But as an exercise it was chaos. The 10p-a-minute ticket phone line is a money-grubbing swindle at the best of times, and this was the worst of times. The whole thing was badly planned and badly executed – almost certainly by highly paid executives who failed to anticipate a demand that should have been foreseen. As it turned out, a process that was supposed to be completed over the weekend had to be extended into a third day. How did they get it so badly wrong?

A steward told me I was one of several people he'd spoken to that day who had experienced the problems I had encountered. This was confirmed when I later checked WHTID and read of the difficulties some of you had endured. Other sites told a similar story – one unfortunate supporter reported hanging on the phone for more than three hours before being cut off. Others were put through to an outside agency which was unable to sell them the tickets they required.

I was lucky in that I was able to jump on a train and sort out my problems. For one thing, I have an annual rail season ticket so the journey didn't cost me anything other than precious time. I also have an understanding wife, who recognises the importance of these things, and grown-up children who no longer expect a Saturday morning kickabout in the park or a lift to their weekend karate class. Many other people will not be in this happy position and now face an uncertain future in what is set to be one of the most memorable seasons in West Ham's history.

I think the club owes them an unreserved apology – and a refund for all those wasted 10p-a-minutes.

PS: If, like Sam's weary warriors at Manchester Citeh on Sunday, you have chosen to go on holiday early this year why not take a copy of my book with you? It's called Nearly Reach The Sky – A Farewell To Upton Park, and can be ordered from publishers Biteback here
You can also find it on Amazon, complete with some very generous reader reviews – for which I am eternally grateful.

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West Ham loan star Alex Song wanted by Inter Milan boss Roberto Mancini
20:53, 21 April 2015 By Neil McLeman
Song's form has faded during the second half of the season at West Ham but Mancini is still keen to bring him to Italy
The Mirror

Roberto Mancini wants to take on-loan West Ham midfielder Alex Song to Inter Milan next season. The former Arsenal star, who is still owned by Barcelona, enjoyed a strong start to his loan deal at Upton Park but his performances have dipped with the team. Song's early season form led to suggestions the Hammers might move to sign him permanently but that now seems unlikely. Mancini is ready to sell Croatia midfielder Mateo Kovacic to finance a rebuilding of his squad with Lukas Podolski set to return to Arsenal. Podolski has failed to score in any of his 12 appearances for the Serie A side.

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West Ham set to REDUCE season ticket prices after bumper TV deal in Premier League first
23:07, 21 April 2015 By Ben Burrows
The Hammers have become the first top flight club to make such a move which will come into force from the beginning of the 2016-17 season
The Mirror

West Ham have announced they will reduce season ticket prices - the first Premier League team to do so following the bumper new TV deal.
Sky and BT Sport won the rights to broadcast the English top flight exclusively from 2016/17 in a record breaking £5bn deal. Until now no club has taken any action to reduce prices for matchday fans as a result with protests against a lack of action taking place at Crystal Palace and Liverpool. But the Hammers have broken the mould confirming plans to bring the price of the cheapest adult ticket to £289 from that season. "We have always said that the move to our magnificent new stadium would be a game changer for West Ham," vice-chairman Karren Brady told the BBC. PAWest Ham United v Crystal PalaceHome from home: West Ham will move out of Upton Park to the Olympic Stadium in 2016
"It was a chance to increase revenue, invest in the team and improve our performance on the pitch, but without putting an extra financial burden on the supporters who already come to watch every home match. "This announcement proves we have kept our promise." Should the club remain in the Premier League when they begin their tenure at the 54,000-seater Olympic Stadium they say their cheapest ticket will be the equivalent of £15 per game. Under-16 tickets will be cut to just £99 - only £5 per match.

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OS season ticket prices revealed
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 21, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

West Ham this afternoon announced their Olympic Stadium season ticket prices to the media but slapped a midnight embargo on the details!
However, we can tell you that there is a surprise in store which may come as a result of co chairman David Gold admitting some time back that he wants to make football affordable at the new stadium. We understand that the news may be released a little earlier by a couple of media outlets who have come to an agreement with the club. But we will none the less honour the embargo and carry the news on ClaretandHugh at the agreed time.

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LEROY: This is the man I want as manager
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 21, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

I explained yesterday why I believe the two Daves should shake hands, thank him but allow Sam Allardyce to walk away NOW! For everybody's sake I believe that is the way forward but the big question is: "Who should replace him." For me it should be a straight choice between Jurgen Klopp and Rafa Benitez. this club is going up in the world and we have to have an upgrade on Sam. Klopp would be magnificent – Rafa would be superb but I guess if they both said "yes" I would have to plump for the German. He's a fun loving bloke who would have a rapport with the fans immediately. Actually they deserve each other because the fans are the best anywhere and so is Jurgen. It's a marriage made in heaven and I hope the owners can make it happen. Rafa – should he become available – is also a fabulous manager who would take us to the next level and beyond. He's a winner and ideal for us. The owners can sell this club by telling both of them that the Olympic Stadium vision is for regular European football either of them could deliver. Give one of the other of them a four year contract and watch sparks fly.

COYI

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Hammers: "Klopp hasn't said no to us"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 21, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

West Have have this afternoon firmly denied that Jurgen Klopp has turned down their advance to make him the club's new manager. The Daily Mirror reported this morning that the German had turned us down after we made our first move last week. But a top insider told us a few minutes ago: "ClaretandHugh's intital report that he has been approached and has promised us an answer after studying his options is correct. "Jurgen has told us that he expects to make his decision by mid-May and is currently weighing varying options. West Ham's chiefs love him. "He is a top class manager with the type of personality which would fit our fans to perfection – he's a great guy.
"Yes it's a longshot and if there was a book running on it he'd be priced at around 33/1 but he's an unpredictable charaacter so who knows – we could find ourselves with one of the world's best managers. "What is entirely wrong is that he has told us he won't sign. He's still in the frame with various others."

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Jenks looks for Enner spark
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 21, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Carl Jenkinson believes Enner Valencia holds the key to a Hammers form resurgence. With one win in their last 12 games teh Irons are sliding down the league like an out of control lift but Jenkinson believes Valencia can spark a recovery. Speaking to the official site he said: "Enner looks very confident at the moment and I'm happy for him because he's been out for a few weeks. "He's been very sharp in training and he's showed it today with his run in the second half. "I'm happy for him and we're going to need him because it looks like we're going to be without Diafra Sakho for a while. "It's good for Enner because it looks like he'll play a big part for us for the rest of the season." Jenkinson – looking to the weekend game against QPR – said: "Queens Park Rangers need every point they can get but so do we," he added. "We want to finish as high up the league table as possible, after they start we had we're not just going to accept a mid-table finish. "QPR need the points but we need to play our part 100 per cent."

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"YOU HAVE ALL LET YOURSELVES DOWN"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on April 21, 2015 in News Agenda, Whispers
Claret & Hugh

West Ham's players have been told its time to start playing for pride and money. The club's bigwigs are entirely unhappy with the current level of performance and are determined that the players understand their position over the final five games of the season.
Whilst remaining entirely tight lipped on the managerial situation it has emerged that both players and Sam Allardyce are on huge bonuses.
The players are thought to be on around £400,000 per league position whilst the manager has financial extras built into his deal. And ClaretandHugh has learned that the the powerbrokers in the club have made it clear they expect a big change between now and the end of the season. A souerce explained: "The performance against City was shambolic – we were so bad it was embarrassing and it's just not good enough. "They let the club down, the fans down but chiefly themselves. We keep hearing they have gone on holiday but there are huge bonuses involved not to mention PRIDE. "What else is there but pride, performance and cash – they have to show a major improvement this weekend and until the end of the season."

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EXCLUSIVE: West Ham season tickets to cost as little as £289 when Hammers move to Olympic Stadium for 2016-17 season
West Ham will move to the Olympic Stadium for the 2016-17 season
Seasons tickets will cost Hammers supporters as little as £289
The club will have the cheapest pricing strategy in the Premier League
The price of a season ticket for under 16s will be cut to just £99
By NEIL ASHTON FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 21 April 2015 | UPDATED: 23:12, 21 April 2015

West Ham's season tickets will cost as little as £289 when they move to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford. The Hammers will have the cheapest pricing strategy in the Barclays Premier League in a bid to fill the 54,000 capacity stadium when they make the switch for the 2016-17 season. Co-chairmen David Gold and David Sullivan are using the boost of the enhanced television revenue, which coincides with their move away from Upton Park, to pass on savings to fans. The new TV deal starts in 2016 after Sky and BT agreed to pay more than £5billion for domestic rights and there will be another auction over the summer with overseas broadcasters. According to a document that will be issued to West Ham fans on Wednesday, every season-ticket band will be reduced when the club move. The lowest priced basic adult season ticket will cost £289, the price for under 16s will be cut to just £99, and a family of four will be able to watch all 19 home games in the top flight for £776. Disabled season-ticket holders will also see a huge reduction, with prices dropping by up to £205. The news comes just one day after Sportsmail revealed massive price hikes at Manchester City. Supporters in City's East Stand have been been told they will have to fork out £1,750 to watch their team, almost double the £885 they currently pay. The Hammers will be under pressure to fill their new stadium after taking the huge decision to leave Upton Park, where they have played since 1904. Gold and Sullivan have taken a 99-year lease on the Olympic Stadium. The club also have a decision to make over manager Sam Allardyce's future — but insist they will not make a final call until after the end of the season.
Allardyce won promotion with West Ham two seasons ago and took them to a mid-table finish in their first year back in the Premier League. His contract expires at the end of the season and they have yet to open talks over a new deal. Real Sociedad boss David Moyes, Besiktas manager Slaven Bilic, a former West Ham player, and Borussia Dortmund's Jurgen Klopp have been linked with the job. But on Tuesday vice-chairman Karren Brady hit out at suggestions that Klopp — who will leave Dortmund this summer — is set to replace Allardyce. 'It is just nonsense,' Brady told Sky Sports News. 'Sam is the manager, we have talked to him about sitting down at the end of the season, which we will do. We have to see what he wants to do. That's how these things work. We've done that since he joined and we've done that when his contract has run out before.'

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