From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Hello everybody,
Although the season has come to an end in terms of playing matches, the work
at the training ground continues.
All the injured players will continue their rehabilitation programs during
the off-season at Chadwell Heath with the medical and sports science staff.
Unfortunately, Mark Noble and James Collins were both injured the last week
of the season.
James injured his calf in the first half of the match with Everton and will
rehab for 4-6 weeks. We hope that he will be fit in time to start the
pre-season with the squad.
Mark injured his big toe during the final training session of the season in
Chadwell Heath. He has had an injection and needs a few weeks of rest. He
too should be ready for the start of pre-season if everything goes to plan.
Diafra Sakho has almost completed his rehab following the quad injury he
suffered in the home match against Stoke City in April. He is continuing to
work on his fitness and will also be fit to start the pre-season.
Andy Carroll (knee) and Doneil Henry (hamstring) will continue to work with
the medical staff during the close-season and remain on schedule to return
in the pre-season.
West Ham United have qualified for the UEFA Europa League first qualifying
round and this makes next season – the last season at the Boleyn Ground –
one of the most exciting seasons in the Club's recent history.
I have worked previously at clubs participating in European competition and
it is a great experience for everyone involved – players, staff and
supporters.
During a normal 'off-season' it's important for the players to relax and
give their bodies and minds time to recover and refuel for the following
season.
Usually, the players have six weeks off, of which the first three weeks are
complete rest, followed by three weeks of individual fitness work. However,
this summer has been shortened to four weeks for two reasons – next year's
European Championship finals and our participation in the Europa League.
So, with a shorter off-season, the fit players need to rest for period but
always be mindful of leading a healthy, professional lifestyle, before
starting their individual programs ahead of their return for pre-season
training next month.
Have a fit and healthy summer!
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
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Hammers in Europe - the history
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will kick-off their seventh European campaign on 2 July when
they enter the UEFA Europa League at the first qualifying round stage.
A return to European action after a nine-year absence will be welcome news
to Hammers fans, whose opportunities to follow their team over land and sea
in competitive football have been limited in the last 15 years.
The last European adventure lasted only two games, as a 1-0 defeat to
Palermo at the Boleyn Ground, followed by a 3-0 loss away, ended our
participation in the 2006/07 UEFA Cup at the first round.
Qualification on that occasion came by virtue of reaching the FA Cup final
the previous season, with the victors Liverpool already qualified for the
UEFA Champions League.
Prior to that, West Ham had to come through a similar experience to this
season to reach the main stage of the 1999/2000 UEFA Cup, starting the
campaign in July to win through three rounds of the Intertoto Cup.
Finnish side Jokerit and Dutch outfit Heerenveen were dismissed before the
Hammers faced FC Metz of France in a two-legged showdown to decide who would
make it through to the UEFA Cup.
Louis Saha gave Les Grenats a first leg advantage at the Boleyn Ground, but
West Ham came roaring back to win 3-1 in Alsace, with Trevor Sinclair, Frank
Lampard and Paulo Wanchope all on target to seal an aggregate victory.
The success continued in the competition proper, as West Ham eased past NK
Osijek in the first round, but Steaua Bucharest put paid to the Club's
European dreams a round later.
Our glory nights in UEFA competition, of course, have come in the Cup
Winners' Cup, with one title, a runners-up place and a semi-final appearance
to the Hammers' name.
West Ham's very first participation in continental competition ended with a
trophy as Ron Greenwood's team went all the way to Wembley in the 1964/65
European Cup Winners' Cup.
A 2-0 victory over TSV 1860 Munich, thanks to two Alan Sealey goals, in the
final gave England just its second European honour and set the seal on a
glorious run which saw the Hammers take out La Gantoise, Sparta Prague,
Lausanne and Real Zaragoza.
Victory in the 1965 edition meant the Hammers returned to the Cup Winners'
Cup the next season and again they progressed deep into the tournament,
reaching the semi-finals before Borussia Dortmund proved too strong.
It was in 1975/76 and following another FA Cup triumph that West Ham were
back in Europe again, and once more the Cup Winners' Cup was a fertile
hunting ground for the east Londoners.
One of the Boleyn Ground's most memorable nights saw the Hammers progress
past Eintracht Frankfurt in the semi-finals to set up a meeting with
Anderlecht in the final. However, there the Belgians had too much for West
Ham, winning 4-2.
So to 1980/81 and West Ham's fourth and final Cup Winners' Cup campaign.
Spanish side Castilla were dismissed in round one, and Romanians Poli
Timisoara in round two, but that was as far as we would go.
Dinamo Tiblisi put on a masterclass in E13, winning 4-1 to set up a 4-2
aggregate win and banish West Ham from Europe up until that 1999 Intertoto
Cup campaign.
Now, with the Hammers set to return to continental action in a matter of 36
days, it could be time to write another chapter.
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It's not over, says JC
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 27th May 2015
By: David Blackmore
Jack Collison believes he can still play a vital role as part of Wales'
golden generation.
In an interview with West Ham magazine Blowing Bubbles Monthly, the
midfielder, who is currently without a club, said he is focusing on making
sure he is in the best possible shape to make a comeback next season.
If Collison needed any further incentive to get his career back on track, he
need only look at his Welsh international team-mates, who are currently in
with a fantastic chance of qualifying for the 2016 European Championships,
which would be their first major tournament appearance since 1958.
"It's a bit tough to watch at times, but it's great to see the lads I came
through the ranks with, like Joe Allen, Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale, doing
so well," said Collison, who left West Ham 12 months ago and won the last of
his 16 caps in March 2014.
"This was always Wales's golden generation, John Toshack blooded them young
and now Chris Coleman is reaping the rewards. I'm confident in my ability,
so if I can get a decent run of games, I don't see any reason why I can't
get back into the squad."
There is also a Cup Winners Cup Final special where Blowing Bubbles caught
up with Ronnie Boyce, Brian Dear and Jack Burkett to relive the magical
night the Hammers conquered Europe.
Elsewhere in the May issue of the magazine, Julian Dicks uses his regular
column to talk about his highs and lows during his first year as manager of
the West Ham Ladies team but will he remain manager for the Ladies' next
campaign? "Whether I will be manager next season remains to be seen," he
wrote this month.
Sky Sports' Bianca Westwood writes in her column that Aaron Cresswell has
been fabulous this season and fully deserved Hammer of the Year. She
believes England manager Roy Hodgson must consider taking him to the next
England squad.
She also criticises manager Sam Allardyce for not doing more to adhere
himself to the fans.
"He could've spoken about our great fans or our wonderful history and all
the other great things about West Ham, but his comments about 'what's the
point playing the West Ham way if you get beat every week' might have been
part of his downfall," she wrote. "It's all well not playing the West Ham
way if you are winning matches but we haven't been."
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Rebuilding
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Raedwulf
Let the speculation commence! It's that time of year - who should we ship
out? Where do we need to strengthen?
This is, of course, a premature article. The most important decision of the
close season won't be about players, it'll be: "Who is our manager next
season?"
Sam has gone. It was much talked about and much predicted, but until the
club announces it, you cannot know for sure. So goodbye, Sam, and thank you
for all your efforts. I never wanted you here, you never converted me into a
fan (though if the early season form and style could have been maintainted,
who knows?), but you have done an important job.
We played too much horrible football, you were always too ready to revert to
a dull one-up style, and you never have been the most fan-friendly manager
in the world. Nevertheless, you got us up and you kept us up.
That was the brief, presumably, and you certainly did the job. Whoever has
been responsible for which signings, we also have a squad that is probably
as strong as anything we've ever had. And whatever was going on behind the
scenes, from August to December you showed that you can play a style of
football that is not merely attractive but also, at times, simply glorious.
Memories of you will always be mixed, and you're never going to be rated the
most popular ever Hammers' manager. But let's remember you as the first
manager ever to "triple" our Dearly Beloathed neighbours, Spurs. And a few
other victories along the way; Man City and Liverpool at the Boleyn this
season, anyone?
Still, as a fan, what can you do except speculate! THE single biggest
decision of the close season is the appointment of our next manager.
Regardless of that, fans are fans, so we can start kibbitzing about who
should stay, who should go, where should we strengthen. As noted, it has
already begun.
Adrian has undoubtedly established himself now as our Number One keeper,
barring some sudden catastrophic loss of form or injury. For so long as he
wants to stay at West Ham (and there are no rumours of interest in him so
far, happily), it's his jersey. Back-up? Well, Jussi is 40 now, but if he is
content to be No.2 and whatever management we have still have faith in him,
I'm perfectly content to go into 15-16 with him.
Where the defence is concerned; in fact, where the club is concerned; the
key signing of the next transfer window has to be making Jenkinson a
full-blown Hammer, if we can. There are other players we need to bring in,
yes; players we could do with shipping out, yes; but right back is our
weakest position, in terms of numbers, and Jenks has had an excellent
season.
Since they're there as a matter of record, I'm sure James Walker won't mind
me quoting from his comments on the Burnley report. He said there that he
felt that Demel and O'Brien (amongst others) were only making up the
numbers. That, I think, is a bit unfair on both. Jenks and Cressie have
pretty much had the full back berths nailed down this season, so where/when
were they supposed to have featured?
Having said that, I've never been a fan of O'Brien. He's rash, comes off his
feet too easily, never mind being injury prone. He's not even our second
best full back on either side, so yes I'd let him go.
I like Demel. He may not be the greatest going forward, but he's not awful,
and a good full back, which is rather more to the point. He has also done
well for us in his time here. The argument against him would more be that
he's getting long in the tooth (34 in June). But then if we sign Jenks, who
is going to want to sign only to play second fiddle?
It wouldn't bother me if we kept Guy as a squad player next season - he
seems to me to be a good "guy" to have around.
James also suggested we might need another full back (to replace O'Brien,
presumably). But we've already got three specialist left backs - Cresswell,
Potts, and Stephen Hendrie. Well, OK, Hendrie isn't with us yet, but joins
on 1 July.
Potts did well enough when he had a chance before being flattened and
concussed against Arsenal. Hendrie already has a century of first team games
under his belt north of the border. If the club thinks he is a better
prospect than Potts Jnr, then presumably he is good enough for the Prem
already.
Of course, there is a question mark over whether we can hang on to
Cresswell. He has had an excellent season. Not only has he stepped up from
Championship level brilliantly, he has just been awarded Hammer of the Year,
and a couple of other club gongs as well.
The downside of that is that the likes of Man City are rumoured to be
sniffing around. I'm sure every West Ham fan would agree that we want to
keep him, regardless. The Davids are more pragmatic. If someone comes in
offering silly money, they may well decide that the money is worth taking.
Only if we should sell him could I agree with James' suggestion that we
might need someone capable of covering both left and right backs.
I'm happy with the centre of defence. Collins can be somewhat agricultural
at times, Tomkins has made a prat of himself a couple of times this year
with his play-acting, Reid kept us all on tenterhooks before finally signing
a new contract. Yes, all have had injury problems, and for the second season
running we've had to employ an emergency DC.
But it would be fair to argue that that last was a product of Allardyce's
pig-headedness about playing young and inexperienced players. Now that he
has finally seen fit to use Burke, we're all wondering why he pulled Kouyate
out of the midfield for a couple of games, no?
In general, I wouldn't class any of our three senior central defenders as
injury-prone. Many players spend some time each season on the treatment
table. It's been no more than an unfortunate coincidence that, for two
seasons running, all three of our senior central defenders have been
visiting at the same time.
But now we undoubtedly have four. Burke still only has a few games under his
belt, but he has looked very assured, and is only going to get better with
more experience. Then there's Oxford, even more highly-rated than Burke,
still to make his debut and Doneil Henry (who knows, he could be another
Winston Reid!) in the Development Squad.
I'd argue that the only position in defence that needs money spent on it is
at right back. Sign Jenks if we can. Then it's a question of whether Demel
remains as back-up, or another player is brought in (presuming none of the
Dev Squad, eg. Leo Chambers, are considered up to the job).
And if we can't get Jenks, one way or another, there are stories enough
about Glen Johnson. Obviously, he isn't my first choice signing, but he
isn't over the hill at 30, or below the standard we're aiming for. Johnson
on a free? I'd rather have Jenks on loan or permanent for £10million. But
Johnson on a free in place of or as well as? That wouldn't be a bad bit of
business.
An honourable mention, too, to Kieran Trippier of Burnley, who has had a
good season and has also been attracting gossip.
Where the midfield is concerned, the fate of Nolan is inextricably entwined
with Allardyce's. With Sam now gone... Well, there are already rumours that
the club do want to move him out, and I can't imagine a new manager fighting
terribly hard to keep him.
If Sam and Kev are gone, does that bring Zarate in from the cold? He is only
one year into a three-year contract, but much depends on what a new manager
might make of him. He has inventiveness, but does he have enough discipline
and work ethic? What formation might a new manager favour? He hasn't covered
himself in glory in his loan spell at QPR.
Noble, of course, stays, as does Kouyate. There have been one or two rumours
about the latter as well, but nothing on the scale as those concerning
Cresswell or Valencia. I'm not too concerned that we will lose him, or that
he will suddenly develop Diame-syndrome and decide he should be at a bigger
club (like Hull!).
Had Song maintained his late '14 form, we'd have been clamouring for him to
be signed permanently. I was one, at the time, who said he should be.
Strangely enough, clamour seems to be absent now. From me too.
If we assume that neither Nolan nor Song will feature next season, we will
need at least one other central midfielder, regardless of the status of
Zarate or Poyet. Should that be someone creative, as Song is usually
reckoned to be? Should it be someone defensive (we've been linked with
Stefan Reinartz, amongst others) to release Noble and Kouyate to get forward
more?
I wouldn't care to judge, but certainly central midfield will need a new
recruit. Looking at the flanks, Amalfitano has had a fitful season. After
his most recent moment of abject stupidity (not his first) against Villa, I
am not a fan. If he is here next year, so be it, but however talented he
might be, I don't want players like that at my club. And he isn't
sufficiently talented to override my objections to his temperament.
I do expect him to still be here, but it wouldn't bother me at all if he was
replaced.
It's moot as to whether Downing is properly still a winger. Early in the
season he showed just how good he can be with licence to roam at the point
of a diamond. In this calendar year, his form has fallen away. He must be
held to account for some of that, but the falling away of form and
changeable tactics are also accountable. For me, he remains an essential
part of the squad.
Our other out-and-out winger is Jarvis. He has never lived up to his "record
signing" tag (signed by Allardyce, lest anyone forget). On his day, he's
dangerous, but he's far too erratic. I think I said at the end of last
season that I wouldn't be sorry to see him depart.
I still think James Walker's "making up the numbers" tag is a bit harsh, but
I'd otherwise have to agree that shifting out Jarvis would free up salary
and space for new faces. We need at least two new faces in midfield. One of
those should be a central player; what else depends on who else goes and
upon what manager we have next year.
Up front, I still think Carroll is a class act. The problem is keeping him
fit. Or stopping him from injuring himself. Take your pick! Sam always
seemed to want to revert to one up front when he was available, but I
believe he is a better and more intelligent player than that.
I can readily see a manager with more tactical imagination than Sam playing
someone alongside Carroll, or someone other than Nolan playing off him, with
the play not consisting of whacking long balls at the big man. And, unless
you're willing to write off that £15million+ investment (I'll bet the Davids
aren't), we better had find a way to keep him fit and make use of him.
I do think Andy is both a better footballer and has a better football brain
than many are willing to give him credit for. Not only would I love to see a
fit Andy terrorising defences, I would love to see what a more imaginative
manager can make of him. But keeping him fit seems to be the difficult bit.
Alongside him, of course, we have Sakho and Valencia. There has been talk
about Valencia moving on. I'm not surprised. We haven't seen his best yet,
by any means. I think he is one of those players who needs a season to bed
in. If my untutored eye can see his ability, I've no doubt others can also.
But let's assume we keep both of them and Carroll gets fit over the summer.
We still need a fourth striker. Again, I think Mr Walker is being more than
a little unfair in classing Carlton as merely "making up the numbers", but
there is some truth there. However much respect I have for him, however much
he has a been a wonderful, genuine, and enthusiastic servant of West Ham.
Sorry, time's up, Carlton. We remain one short up front. Carlton is a trier,
and Upton Park has always loved a trier, but CC only gets sporadic game
time, and isn't in the same bracket as any of the three in front of him. He
can still do a job for a Premier League team, but he is very firmly fourth
choice now.
Our fourth choice should either be pushing the three in front, or he should
have the potential to do so. Carlton can't do the former and is at the wrong
end of his career to qualify under the latter.
In summary then, and in my opinion, regardless of any outgoings, we need
three new players. We need a right back, we need a central midfielder, and
we need a striker capable of competing with Carroll, Song, and Valencia for
a starting berth.
Three players certainly won't be the extent of the squad changes this
summer, but other recruitment will depend on who is released or sold. I
expect Cole and Song to go, I hope that Nolan will, O'Brien too. I won't be
sorry if Jarvis and Amalfitano are also replaced.
I don't expect Nene to be signed (another one who is 34 this year), although
I think he has shown enough in his limited game time to be worth a one year
contract, possibly as a direct replacement for Amalfitano or Jarvis. Aside
from Johnson, we've also been heavily linked with both Javier Hernandez and
Pedro Obiang.
For my own part, my football viewing is largely confined to watching my
beloved 'Ammers! Therefore, even with those players I've mentioned, I have
no particular view on who might be a good signing for us (except Jenks! Sign
Jenks!! If we can...). Ignoring entirely the unanswerable question of who
our next manager will be, who do you think should go?
Where do we need to recruit, and who might fill that spot?
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Jeux Sans Frontières
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 26th May 2015
By: Graeme Howlett
So after months of speculation, it's finally in the bag. We may have not
followed the conventional path to qualification, but West Ham are in the
Europa League for the first time in the club's illustrious history
nonetheless.
Or almost in the Europa League, I should say. That's because prior to the
first round proper commencing in mid-September, we'll have to navigate our
way through three tricky preliminary rounds and a play-off round - that's
eight matches before the Group phase even starts!
Still, those preliminary rounds - should we progress, as will be expected -
are likely to provide slightly more interesting fixtures than the standard
pre-season fayre which usually encapsulates trips to non-league venues in
Essex and other surrounding counties.
Looking closer, there's a good number of teams involved in the first
qualifying round that a great many of you (myself included) will almost
certainly be entirely unfamiliar with.
Of the 104 teams in the draw, West Ham could be paired with the likes of FK
Shkëndija (from Tetovo, Macedonia), FK Mladost Podgorica (whose home is a
2,000 capacity stadium in Montenegro's capital) or even FC Ordabasy, who
finished fourth in the Kazakhstan Premier League this term.
Fortunately, if you don't particularly fancy a trip to the former Iron
Curtain, there are one or two clubs somewhat closer to home such as the
gloriously-named Airbus UK Broughton of Wales - a few miles south of
Liverpool as the crow flies - or Ireland's Cork City (who as all keen
Hammers stattos will know was the only other club Trevor Brooking
represented during his professional career).
We'll know for sure who we're due to face on 22 June, when the draw for the
first and second qualifying rounds take place. That means it's going to be a
busy few weeks for the club, who are also hunting for a new manager and new
playing staff to supplement the existing squad.
Whilst there are justified concerns over the long-term effects of a
prolonged and sustained Europa League campaign, it was an offer the club
simply couldn't afford to turn down in what will be West Ham United's final
season at the Boleyn Ground.
Looking back over the years, some of our greatest nights under the Upton
Park floodlights have come in European competition - although our most
recent sojourn into European competition ended miserably and at the first
attempt.
With Liverpool having qualified for Europe via the Champions League, being
runners-up in the 2006 FA Cup Final was enough to earn West Ham a spot in
the now-defunct UEFA Cup.
Sadly, the Hammers got a stinker of a draw against a solid Palermo side who
were flying high in Serie A at the time and even the inclusion of Argentine
internationals Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez failed to prevent a
thumping 4-0 aggregate defeat for Alan Pardew's side.
Rather fonder memories of the competition lie with the 1999/00 campaign
however, when Harry Redknapp's team qualified for the UEFA Cup proper
courtesy of winning the Intertoto Cup (the equivalent of the Europa League
qualifying round but with the added incentive of an egg-sized trophy at the
end of it).
West Ham saw off Helsinki's FC Jokerit (who were in business for just years
between 1999-2003) 2-1 on aggregate, Dutch side Heerenveen (2-0 courtesy of
two 1-0 wins) and then, most notably, Metz in the two-legged Intertoto
Final.
By the end of the first meeting at the Boleyn, West Ham's chances of
progressing to the first round of the UEFA Cup appeared slim, at best,
having succumbed to a disappointing 1-0 defeat courtesy of a young striker
called Louis Saha - who ended up playing at Everton and Manchester United.
But Hammers fans were in buoyant mood ahead of the second leg in France,
despite the slim chances of success and thousands crossed the channel to
watch West Ham secure an historic 3-1 victory through goals from Trevor
Sinclair, Frank Lampard Jnr and Paulo Wanchope.
Paired with little-known Croatian side FC Osijek in the first round proper,
the Hammers went into the first leg still unbeaten in the league. That form
helped the Irons secure a 3-0 win at the Boleyn to take to Croatia, where
the match was all but over by half time thanks to Paul Kitson's 27th-minute
effort.
Stanko Bubalo levelled the tie on 70 minutes, beating Shaka Hislop from
close range, but late strikes from Neil Ruddock and Marc-Vivien Foe were
enough to secure a 3-1 win on the night and an impressive 6-1 aggregate
result.
Sadly West Ham's run was to end in the very next round at the hands of
Romanians Steaua Bucharest. A disappointing 2-0 defeat away from home in the
first leg left Redknapp's team with a mountain to climb in the return
fixture. Although the Hammers battered Steaua from start to finish, the game
ended goalless and West Ham were dumped out of the competition, despite
having survived four rounds previously.
That was the first time West Ham had qualified for European competition in
some 18 years. On the previous occasion, in 1980/81, a crack Russian side
called Dynamo Tbilisi did for United with what is generally viewed as the
most complete performance by an away team at the Boleyn ever. The Russians
triumphed 4-1 on the night and were clapped off by the home fans; in typical
West Ham fashion, we won the return tie 1-0 through Stuart Pearson's
88th-minute strike.
Prior to that, few who were there will forget the 1976 Cup Winners' Cup ties
against Den Haag and Eintracht Frankfurt, which a KUMB.com poll recently
adjudged to be the greatest ever game at the Boleyn Ground (a match in which
John Lyall's team overturned a 2-1 first leg deficit to win 4-3 on aggregate
and earn a place in the Final).
And 50 years ago this month, West Ham triumphed in their first ever European
adventure when beating TSV Munich 2-0 at Wembley to lift the Cup Winners'
Cup – a triumph they narrowly failed to emulate the following season
(1965/66) when losing to Borussia Dortmund in the semi finals.
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Thanks Sam; it's not you, it's us
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 27th May 2015
By: Matt Bell
I thank Sam Allardyce for turning us around and making us a solid Premier
League team after promotion. We have indeed made strides under his
stewardship.
Looking back, relegation from the top tier in 2003 with a team packed of
internationals was a nightmare. The only joy I took from that season was
seeing Sir Trevor in charge for the final three matches.
The most recent relegation was the after-effect of a change of owners, a bad
choice of manager (Avram) and a number of off-field incidents that served
only to destabilise the club.
Football experts who warn West Ham to be careful what they wish for when
replacing Big Sam have no idea other than to back a mate and fear potential
relegation. 2013/2014 was awful. We had no strikers and even signed Carlton
again after releasing him and our goal tally was dismal.
Yet we finished 13th and made the semi finals of Carling Cup.
Sam took us as far as he can go but if judged alone on 2015, he would have
been fired. During this time he can point to injuries but the fact is when
losing we have no plan B and his choice of subs is baffling.
We know that Sullivan signs players such as Nene because he can get him for
free, but it was apparent that Sam preferred Carlton Cole. Cole is a lovely
man and works his socks off but when up front, we lump it forward and expect
him to out-jump two defenders, hold it up and lay it off. Even on the rare
occasion he did so, there was no one to lay it off to.
It was Sam who decided on signing Andy Carroll and Matt Jarvis. Carroll may
be popular with some but he changes the way we play. Sakho and Valencia
defend so high with such vigour they cause mistakes, gain free kicks and
corners and unsettle defences. The second season for both should be more
productive (with Downing in his preferred playmaker position).
We only need a few players and the owners got it right when signing Hendrie
early. Now if a mega-money offer was accepted for Cresswell, we wouldn't be
quoted £10million for a replacement. If Valencia was sold for higher than
the £12million we paid then so be it – this is the way a club our size
should be operating. Find them, groom them, sell and replace.
Manager-wise I like Bilic as I think he is defensively sound and know what
we want, as he played in a good Redknapp team. I understand that Klopp and
Ancelotti are out of reach and laugh at such links. I don't want to see
Moyes in charge as six months in Spain is not enough time to expand his
style and his brand of football is not that far from Sams.
Have the owners got the balls to appoint Bielsa? A coach without Premier
League experience but at 60 has the personality and proven record to excite
and take West Ham forward? I hope so. Pep Guardiola thinks highly enough of
him and I would love to see his brand of relentless pressing and goals
galore light up the Boleyn.
Remember Koeman didn't have any Premier League experience, nor did
Pochettino. Gary Monk, neither.
In regards to the West Ham way that draws so much criticism, I think of the
teams Lyall built. A good goalkeeper (Adrian), solid centre backs (Reid,
Collins, Tomkins with support from Burke and Henry), a hHard working
midfield (Noble, Koyaute, possibly Obiang from Sampdoria) with flair, goals
and pace up front (Sakho, Valencia, Downing).
Add a couple and it's a strong 11 with benched options to maintain a style.
Excitement will sell season tickets and attract new fans, not a fluctuating
league position. It's the hope that blows the bubbles and it's hope we live
on. Finishing between 10th and 13th is achievable, but ultimately football
is supposed to be entertaining and watching West Ham for many seasons has
been dull and predictable.
Go for Bielsa and strap in for a crazy ride of goals and drama or appoint
Bilic and bring in Rio for coaching experience. Either way Moyes or McLaren
will not tempt me into shelling out nearly £1,000 to watch West Ham finish
mid table.
COYI, There is a bright future ahead of us!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce, 2011-2015
Kumb.COM
Filed: Sunday, 24th May 2015
By: Graeme Howlett
Just three minutes had elapsed after the final whistle at Newcastle on
Sunday afternoon when West Ham announced that manager Sam Allardyce would be
leaving the club with immediate effect.
One of football's worst-kept secrets was finally revealed moments after the
Hammers had seen their season end in predictable defeat courtesy of goals
from Moussa Sissoko and Jonas Gutierrez, who was still undergoing
chemotherapy to treat testicular cancer as recently as last October.
Allardyce, perhaps in an effort to save face insisted that the decision to
part company with West Ham after four years at the helm had been mutual. "I
think it's right for both of us to move on at this moment in time", he told
the BBC diplomatically, adding that: "A new contract never really got
discussed. We both just said 'that's it'".
The club's fanbase would appear to agree on the whole, with many of those
who once backed Big Sam now agreeing that the time for change has arrived.
The toxic and divisive nature of his tenure caused many an argument (both
literal and sadly, sometimes physical) and it is hoped that the prospect of
a new arrival will help to restore peace amongst these quarrellsome
elements.
The question of where exactly it went wrong for Allardyce will be debated
long and hard over the next few days. However the seeds were well and truly
sown that fateful night against Hull when he responded to the jeers of
supporters by cupping his ear in their direction. (You will no doubt recall
that we won the game 2-1.)
Prior to that, he had won over many of his critics by restoring West Ham's
place in the Premier League - at the first attempt, albeit via the play-offs
- before securing an impressive tenth-placed finish in the first season back
(2012/13). It earned him a new two-year contract - again, to much agreement.
However doubts regarding his perceived direct style (which was often
accurate, but not always) began to re-emerge last season (2013/14) and a
record three wins over Tottenham in one year plus a 13th-place spot failed
to paper over the cracks. Many fans wanted Allardyce gone last summer, but
the Board stood firm despite tremendous pressure to pull the trigger.
That decision appeared to be vindicated at Christmas 2014 when West Ham were
in a lofty fourth-position, but a dreadful run of form since has seen United
plummet down the table to end the campaign 12th and leave Allardyce
unemployed.
Big Sam knew his time was up
Whilst many Hammers fans will be happy to see the back of the enigma that
was 'Big Sam', the record books will reflect rather more happily on his
reign as West Ham United's 14th full-time manager. Its accounts will too,
with the club back on its feet financially following the near-devastating
effects of relegation in 2011.
Attention now turns to his replacement, who in Mourinho-speak we'll briefly
refer to as Manager 15. Rafa Benitez, a long-term target of co-owner David
Sullivan's remains a bookies' favourite although Slaven Bilic is favoured by
many, having been made surplus to requirements at Besiktas this week.
Whoever the new man is, he'll have little time to prepare his troops for the
Europa Cup qualifying campaign, which is scheduled to begin in the first
week of July. It certainly promises to be a busy few weeks at the Boleyn.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOULD THEY STAY OR SHOULD THEY GO: THE FORWARDS
By Iain Dale 27 May 2015 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
This week I will be analysing the whole squad and asking you to give your
views as to whether each player should be retained or be sold. Let's start
off with the forwards…
Nene
Nene is 33 years old and was signed as backup in the transfer window. He was
a Sullivan signing and was never wanted by Sam Allardyce, and was never
really given a chance to show what he could do. He didn't start a single
game, yet has declared that he wants to stay. I fear he will be
disappointed. VERDICT: RELEASE
Andy Carroll
Andy Carroll looked back to the player he once was and then he got injured
again. He scored 5 in 12, which is a good rate of return, but bearing in
mind he costs us £100k a week, that's a million pounds per goal and almost
half a million pounds per game. On is day he is a wordlbeater and gives the
team something unique, but can we really rely on a striker who plays so few
games? At the moment it's unlikely any other club would pay a huge amount
for him, certainly nowhere near the £20 million he cost. However, it's clear
that he can only ever be relied upon as one of three top class strikers.
VERDICT: KEEP, BUT SELL IF A £15 MILLION OFFER COMES IN
Mauro Zarate
Although he was never given a real chance by Sam Allardyce his behaviour on
loan at QPR has been nothing short of a disgrace. VERDICT: SELL. QUICK
Carlton Cole
I imagine there's no way back for Carlton now, but at the age of 31 he still
has a lot to give. I wonder if Norwich might put in a bid. Personally, I'd
love it if he stayed as our fourth back-up striker, but to be fair to him he
wants regular first team football. VERDICT: HEAD SAYS RELEASE, HEART SAYS
KEEP
Diafro Sakho*
Ten goals in 23 appearances says it all. Possibly the find of the season.
Allardyce would have preferred Connor Wickham, but David Sullivan got his
way, and thank God he did. Sakho, if he keeps fit, could be the 20 goal a
season striker we've been searching for for many years. VERDICT: KEEP
Elliot Lee
Elliot Lee is not a Premier League class striker and never will be. Even on
loan to Luton he only scored three in eleven games. It would have been
lovely for him to break through, but it's not going to happen. VERDICT: SELL
Enner Valencia
When Enner Valencia scored that wonderful free kick against Hull we allowed
ourselves to believe we had got a pearl of a player, but sadly he's never
really lived up to the hype. He has flashes of brilliance, but they are few
and far between. Four goals in 30 games tells its own story, bearing in mind
he has scored 11 in 17 for Equador. Maybe our style of play wasn't to his
liking or he just found the physicality of the Premier League too much.
Chelsea are said to be willing to pay £21 million for him, although I doubt
we'll ever see the colour of their money. VERDICT: SELL IF WE CAN GET OUR
MONEY BACK
We should also remember that technically Modibo Maiga is still a West Ham
player, as he will return from his loan period with Metz, where he scored a
more than respectable 9 goals in 24 appearances. At least that puts him in
the shop window.
VERDICT
With Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho, it seems to me we need to buy two
strikers before the start of next season – one small, nippy striker and
another who can replace Carroll or Sakho is they get injured.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
former Hammers striker Demba Ba
22:30, 26 MAY 2015
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Ba worked under Bilic, another West Ham old boy, at Besiktas this season and
says he has great qualities as a coach
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has been backed to succeed Sam Allardyce as West Ham manager.
Former Hammers striker Demba Ba believes Bilic would be an ideal
replacement, having worked under him at Besiktas this season.
Ex-Irons defender Bilic is leaving Turks Besiktas at the end of this
campaign after two years and is the leading candidate to take over at Upton
Park.
And Ba believes Bilic has adopted attributes from a playing spell in Germany
earlier in his career that could help make him a success at West Ham – who
today got a Fair Play pass into the Europa League.
Dean MouhtaropoulosBest Ba none: Striker in action in this season's Europa
League
Senegalese striker Ba, 29, said: "He is full of motivation and very close to
the players and it helped, especially us in Besiktas.
"We have a young team and he helps a lot. He is a good guy. He would be a
good choice.
"He has that German mentality and in football that German mentality helps a
lot because they are very disciplined and do things right in football and I
think he does that.
"If he comes here I think and I hope he is going to be successful.
"He seems like he is rough and rude on the sidelines but he is actually very
soft and calm with the players.
"He would be like a confidant. He is very open and someone you can talk to.
"He gave me that confidence, always telling me I was the best and at the end
of the day I scored a lot of goals for him and Besiktas so that's something
I will take away from working with him."
Ba was speaking at the Human Appeal Celebrity Football Gala Dinner.
He was joined by stars including ex-Chelsea teammates Eden Hazard, John
Terry, Branislav Ivanovic, Samuel Eto'o and Arsenal's Abou Diaby to help
raise over £300,000 for the Empire of the Children project, a centre for
street children in Senegal.
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drian makes team of the season
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Hammers keeper Adrian has been included in the EA Sports Premier League team
of the season announced this evening.
Speaking on his official twitter account Adrian said 'So Proud about this
Work,work,work!'
Adrian made the third most saves this season at 129 while former Hammer
Robert Green in second place at 132 with relegated QPR. Swansea's Lukasz
Fabianski made the most saves of the 2014/2015 season with 137.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emery doubts grow after Europa League double
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham's chances of landing Unai Emery as their 15th manager appear to be
fading after he led Sevilla to win the Europa League Final this evening
beating Dnipro 3-2. Sevilla becomes the fist team to win the Europa League
back to back since the competition was reformed. Sevilla have now won the
Europa League four times in the last decade.
Emery steered Sevilla to fifth place in La Liga and they become the first
club win a Champions League place which was introduced as a prize to the
winners of the Europa league final this season.
When asked yesterday about a move away from Sevilla he answered 'It's very
clear in my mind. My heart is 100 per cent Sevilla at the moment and I
cannot think beyond that by winning that match tomorrow.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Klopp an Irons winner in a canter
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jurgen Klopp is the choice by 25 per cent of West Ham fan base to become the
club's new boss.
With just over two hours left to vote the 47 year old German heads the
ClaretandHugh poll in which fans were asked to vote for their replacement to
Sam Allardyce.
Klopp has just over 25 per cent of the vote but the shock is to see Slaven
Bilic (16.19) in second place ahead of top bosses Rafa Benitez (11.2) and
Carlo Ancelotti (13.66).
ClaretandHugh listed 17 candidates and gave fans the opportunity of voting
for three of them. With the poll closing at midnight, the top six is made up
of Unai Emery (7.48) whose Sevilla are involved in this evening's Europa Cup
Final and Marseilles boss Marcelo Bielsa 0n 5.36.
There is still time to vote at
http://www.claretandhugh.info/poll-pick-the-next-irons-boss/
ClaretandHug will be sending the poll result to David Sullivan and David
Gold.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bielsa is the latest second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Marcelo Bielsa has become the latest second favourite with the bookies, the
third second favourite in as many days replacing Di Matteo yesterday and
Unai Emery two days before that.
You could get odds up to 40/1 on Bielsa becoming the 15th West Ham manager a
few days ago but his odds have since been cut to as short as 3/1 tonight
with Sky Bet. Slaven Bilic remains the odds on favourite with odds as short
as 1/2.
As we reported earlier this week we quoted a William Hill spokesman "These
manager markets are very volatile and can vary from day to day with every
new rumour."
According to reports in L'Equipe tonight Marseille have offered Bielsa a two
year contract extension despite making a farewell speech.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fully fit squad by end of June
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham's Head of Medical and Sports Science, Stijn Vandenbroucke has told
the club's official website he expects a fully fit squad when the players
return for pre season training on 22nd June.
James Collins who injured his calf in the first half of the match with
Everton is expected to rehab for 4-6 weeks. West Ham hope he will be fit in
time to start the pre-season with the squad. Mark Noble injured his big toe
during the final training session of the season in Chadwell Heath. He has
had an injection and needs a few weeks of rest. He too should be ready for
the start of pre-season.
Diafra Sakho has almost completed his rehab following the quad injury he
suffered in the home match against Stoke City in April. He is continuing to
work on his fitness and will also be fit to start the pre-season.
Andy Carroll (knee) and Doneil Henry (hamstring) will continue to work with
the medical staff during the close-season and remain on schedule to return
in the pre-season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Players holidays cut short
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham players have had their usual six week holiday cut short by two
weeks to prepare for their first Europa league game on 2nd July. Speaking on
the official club website Head of Medical and Sports Science
StijnVandenbroucke said:
"Usually, the players have six weeks off, of which the first three weeks are
complete rest, followed by three weeks of individual fitness work. However,
this summer has been shortened to four weeks for two reasons – next year's
European Championship finals and our participation in the Europa League. So,
with a shorter off-season, the fit players need to rest for period but
always be mindful of leading a healthy, professional lifestyle, before
starting their individual programs ahead of their return for pre-season
training next month."
This would suggest players will return to training on Monday 22nd June
which the same day of the Europa league draw to find out how we will face in
the first round.
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Ilunga welcomes great West Ham news
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Former Hammer Hertita Ilunga has welcomed the news of Sam Allardyce's
departure and West Ham's qualification into the Europa league. Speaking from
his official twitter account Ilunga wrote "New manager and UEFA Europa
League for next season !!!! Two (pieces of) great news #COYI" (Come On you
Irons)
Ilunga signed on loan for West Ham in September 2008 for the 2008/2009
season. The following season Ilunga agreed to turn his loan move into a
permanent four-year contract with West Ham. He found limited opportunities
under Avram Grant until he was picked for the first five games of season
2011–12 by then new manager Sam Allardyce before farmed out to join
Doncaster Rovers on-loan. In January 2012 West Ham mutually agreed with
Ilunga to terminate his contract with immediate effect. He made 73
appearances for West Ham in all competitions scoring three goals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Goodbye Captain Nolan…hello Mark Noble
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham looks set to take over the mantle of skipper next season as the
club look to offload Kevin Nolan among several others.
Nolan is already being seen as part of the club's history and former boss
Sam Allardyce's departure appears to make that a certainty.
We were told: "Everything moves on and there will be several players moving
out – Kevin among them – if the right opportunity comes along."
We reported earlier today that Jussi Jaaskelainen,Carlton Cole and Guy
Demel were on their way this summer but a source spoke to us later and
said: "You can add Kevin to the list. He's in the last year of his deal here
and will be allowed to move on."
Mark Noble will immediately pick up the armband although Cheik Kouyate has
his admirers.
However,we were told: "Mark has always been the guy earmarked as the next
captain and that could be at the start of the new season.
"We need to make room in the wage budget for the next generation of players
as we head for the Olympic Stadium."
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"Benitez was minutes away from signing"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are still clinging to hopes that either Rafa Benitez or Carlo
Ancelloti can be brought into the club.
And they are so determined to get the highest quality boss possible that
until Benitez is officially confirmed into the Real Madrid job, they will
hold off holding talks with other candidates.
Ancelotti has ruled himself out of the job because he needs back surgery but
a top Hammers source said: "That can change as can every situation. He could
decide to delay the operation."
And he revealed that Benitez was within minutes of signing an Irons deal
when his representatives were contacted by Madrid and things collapsed.
He said: "It looked signed and sealed for us but then that happened. That's
why everybody is being so careful because things change so quickly."
Our source said: "Things really have changed. The board are determined to
get the highest possible quality candidate and although things look a bit
dim on the big two, they are giving themselves every chance.
"They don't want to find themselves appointing and alternative third or
fourth choice and suddenly one of their top choices 'unexpectedly' becomes
available – those would be Rafa and Carlo!"
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Bielsea issues "farewell speech " to Marseilles
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 27, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Marcelo Bielsa looks to have done his best to put himself very much in the
West Ham's frame after bidding what looked liked an emotional farewell
speech to Marselles.
After guiding the club to a fourth placed finish, the Argentinian said: "I
want to congratulate the French Ligue 1 for the league that they have here.
"I have managed some great players here. Some of them are some of the best
players I have had in my career. There is a very professional group at
Marseilles and some very unique facilities here.
"I have an enormous amount of emotions tonight. I will keep them for the
rest of my life. It is frustrating to finish fourth. I will be taking my
holidays like everyone else."
Bielsa is known to be keen to be given the Irons job but as we reported
earlier, the Hammers will do nothing until the hear officially that Rafa
Benitez has been officially confirmed as Real Madrid boss.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal will allow Carl Jenkinson to spend next season out on loan as Arsene
Wenger refuses to sell defender this summer
Carl Jenkinson will be made available for a season-long loan deal
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 15:47 GMT, 27 May 2015 | UPDATED: 16:27 GMT, 27 May 2015
Arsenal will make Carl Jenkinson available for loan next season following
talks with Arsene Wenger. Wenger revealed earlier this month that he and the
defender, who spent last season on loan at West Ham, would hold discussions
about the right-back's future. The Arsenal manager was torn between
including Jenkinson in his plans for next season or freeing him for another
season-long loan spell. And Sportsmail understands the Gunners have opted
for the latter. The news will spark a scramble for the defender's signature
ahead of the new season.
Jenkinson impressed for the Hammers last term, and his displays didn't go
unnoticed by Wenger and his staff.
The 23-year-old's future at the Emirates Stadium looked bleak following the
arrivals of Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers, who both arrived as
right-backs in 2014. Likewise, the emergence of Hector Bellerin has caused
another obstacle for Jenkinson in his quest to secure a first-team place at
Arsenal. However, the Gunners are not prepared to let the former Charlton
man leave on a permanent deal ahead of next season and want to monitor his
progress at another Premier League club
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Andy Carroll 'ready to accept transfer back to Newcastle United'
Lee Thomas-Mason for Metro.co.uk
Wednesday 27 May 2015 4:18 pm
West Ham striker Andy Carroll is apparently hoping for a transfer back to
his boyhood club Newcastle United.
Carroll, 26, who joined West Ham from Liverpool in deal worth a combined
£17million, has a had an injury ravaged two seasons with the Hammers having
only made 29 Premier League appearances. According to the Sun, Carroll is
hoping to rejoin former club Newcastle following the sacking of West Ham
manager Sam Allardyce following the 2-0 defeat at St James' Park on the
final day of the season. With Newcastle owner Mike Ashley expected to invest
in the transfer market after securing Premier League safety, Carroll would
be expected to have to take a pay-cut in have any chance of securing his
dream move back to the club in which he started his career.
Andy Carroll's £36million move from Newcastle to Liverpool still remains a
transfer fee record for a British player.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham managerial candidate Marcelo Bielsa signs new deal at current club
Mathew Nash
8 hours ago
The former Chile and Bilbao coach has reportedly decided to stay just where
he is.
West Ham United are currently looking to replace their manager Sam
Allardyce, after his contract at the club was not renewed for next season.
Several names have been put forward as potential Big Sam replacements. The
likes of Slaven Bilic, David Moyes and Roberto Di Matteo have all reportedly
been sounded out.
Another name that is said to be in the running for the role is Marcelo
Bielsa's. The current Marseille boss truly caught the eye whilst manager of
the Chilean national team and has been in charge at Marseille this campaign.
But reports had claimed he fell out with the board at the club and wanted a
move.
That now seems to be untrue.
It is reported today that Bielsa has in fact agreed to stay at the Stade
Velodrome.
It has been reported by RMC, as relayed by beIN Sports, that Bielsa and
Marseille have put their differences to one side and have put pen to paper
on a deal that will last until the summer of 2017.
If it proves true then West Ham can scrub his name from the list of
potential candidates.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, May 28
Wednesday, May 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th May 2015
Hammers earn Europa League place
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that they have qualified for a
place in the 2015/16 UEFA Europa League, for the first time since 2006/2007,
after finishing top of the Barclays Premier League's Fair Play table.
In a joint statement, West Ham United Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold welcomed the news. They said: "We are delighted to have won a
place in the UEFA Europa League as we want to ensure the Boleyn Ground the
best send-off possible, and progress in this competition will certainly help
with that.
"Starting in early July will bring its challenges, but everyone at the Club,
from the Board to the players and supporters will be relishing the
opportunity to feature on the European stage. It should be a fantastic
experience."
West Ham will be among 104 teams whose European campaigns will begin with
the first qualifying round on 2 July, with three rounds to negotiate before
August's play-off round determines the 22 teams who come through the
qualification process and advance to the Europa League's group stage.
The draw for the qualifying rounds will take place as follows:
UEFA Europa League first and second qualifying round draws: 22 June
UEFA Europa League third qualifying round draw: 17 July
UEFA Europa League play-off round draw: 7 August
UEFA Europa League group stage draw: 28 August
Click here for full information on draw and round dates.
England will also be represented in this competition by Tottenham Hotspur,
Liverpool and either Southampton or Aston Villa, depending on the latter's
result in the FA Cup final.
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UEFA Europa League – who could we face?
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans have spent Tuesday afternoon enthusiastically scouring
the internet, trying to work out who their heroes could face in the early
rounds of the UEFA Europa League.
A glance down the list of clubs who have joined the Hammers in the
tournament's first qualifying round dispels suggestions that it is the
reserve of clubs from the continent's smallest leagues.
Instead, the 104 clubs included in the first qualifying round draw are
expected to represent 41 different nations, with West Ham being England's
sole representative at that stage of the competition.
The Hammers are one of three clubs to have qualified for the tournament
through finishing top of their domestic Fair Play League – Dutch side Go
Ahead Eagles and Irish outfit University College Dublin (UCD) being the
other two.
Go Ahead will be the only Dutch club in the first qualifying round, which
kicks-off with the first leg on Thursday 2 July, while UCD are joined by
fellow countrymen FAI Cup winners St Patrick's Athletic and League of
Ireland runners-up Cork City and fourth-place Shamrock Rovers.
So, who else is in the first qualifying draw, which will be made on 22 June?
Of the clubs to have already qualified, the Hammers have faced two of them
previously.
FC Lahti finished third in the Finnish Veikkausluga, and were known by their
former guise of Lahden Reipas when West Ham beat them 5-2 on aggregate in
the European Cup Winners' Cup first round in 1975/76.
Georgian side Dinamo Tbilisi finished third in their domestic league this
season, earning them the chance to be drawn against the club they knocked
out of the European Cup Winners' Cup at the quarter-final stage in 1980/81.
Then a Soviet league club, Dinamo won 4-1 courtesy of arguably the finest
performance by an visiting side that the Boleyn Ground has ever witnessed.
Of the teams whose qualification has been confirmed, West Ham are expected
to be amongst the seeded teams, including Moldovan Cup winners Sheriff
Tiraspol, Norwegian league runners-up Rosenborg, Swedish side Elfsborg and
Croatian league runners-up Hadjuk Split.
Also in the hat are 1991 European Cup finalists Red Star Belgrade of Serbia,
1983 European Cup Winners' Cup winners Aberdeen of Scotland and two-time
UEFA Cup winners IFK Gothenburg of Sweden.
Due to expected seedings, West Ham are almost certain not to meet any of the
above in the first qualifying round, bar FC Lahti, who are unlikely to be
seeded.
That is not to say that the unseeded teams could not present a banana skin
for West Ham, with Norwegian side Odd, Hungarians Ferencvaros and MTK
Budapest, Latvians Skonto Riga and League of Ireland title chasers Cork City
– who hosted the Hammers in a friendly a year ago – all potential opponents.
For those among the Claret and Blue Army who want to collect some air miles
while following their heroes, the longest potential trip is to Kazakhstan
Cup winners Kairat, based in the city of Almaty a mammoth 3,482 miles from
the Boleyn Ground. Compatriots Ordabasy finished fourth in the Kazakhstan
Premier League and are based just a tad closer at 3,211 miles from east
London.
If you fancy a bit of sun on your back, Balzan FC finished fourth in the
Maltese Premier League and are unseeded, as are the yet to be crowned
Gibraltan Cup winners. Unfortunately, Cypriot clubs Apollon Limassol and
Omonia Nicosia are both seeded!
Closer to home, the shortest potential trip West Ham could make is likely to
be to Welsh Premier League side Newtown, who qualified through a play-off
and are based in the Powys town just 208 miles from the Boleyn Ground.
Fellow Welsh sides Airbus UK Broughton (214 miles) and Bala Town (221 miles)
will also represent Wales in the 2015/16 competition.
The two Scottish sides – Aberdeen and one other – are both likely to be
seeded, but Northern Irish clubs Glentoran and Glenavon are also expected to
be among the unseeded clubs in the draw, as are representatives from
Albania, Azerbaijan, Iceland, Luxembourg, Montenegro and San Marino, among
others.
Whoever West Ham are drawn to face, the Claret and Blue Army are sure to
enthusiastically follow their team over land and, providing we do not draw
any of the three Welsh sides in the hat, sea in their thousands. Roll on 22
June!
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Hartson wants new boss to play 'exciting football'
WHUFC.com
John Hartson says it is imperative that West Ham United appoint a new
manager who will excite and be embraced by the Club's 'terrific supporters'.
The former Hammers and Wales striker, who scored 33 goals in 73 appearances
in Claret and Blue between 1997 and 1999, insists the new boss must be a man
who tries his best to follow the 'West Ham Way'.
With the Hammers now confirmed entrants in next season's UEFA Europa League,
Hartson is hoping the Board appoint a man who can get fans out of their
seats on a regular basis.
"I played in front of the West Ham fans for two years and they are terrific
supporters," said the 40-year-old. "I just feel that they respect the job
Sam has done but they were not very happy with certain elements of Sam
Allardyce being in charge.
"The man they want is a manager who is going to play exciting football, a
manager that likes to play out from the back.
The Swansea-born forward, who also excelled for Luton Town, Arsenal,
Wimbledon and Celtic during a successful career, says the Hammers'
passionate fan base value entertaining, passing football and will demand as
such during the Club's historic final season at the Boleyn Ground, and going
forward into the new Stadium in Stratford.
"West Ham have always traditionally passed the ball there under the lights
at the Boleyn," continued Hartson, who played in the side which finished in
a record-high fifth position in the Premier League in 1998/99.
"Obviously I think the new Stadium is very exciting for them so, as I said,
it's imperative that they get the right man that the crowd can get behind as
well."
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Downing expecting busy summer
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing expects plenty of changes over what could be a very short
but eventful summer break for West Ham United.
Should the Hammers qualify for the UEFA Europa League through the Fair Play
League, the squad could be back in training as early as 22 June – just four
weeks from now – with a new manager at the helm to boot.
With a host of players either out of contract or returning to their parent
clubs at the end of loan spells, Downing could have plenty of new faces to
get to know come next month.
"Whoever comes in has obviously got really good players and we've proved
this season that we can mix it with the best," the midfielder told West Ham
TV.
"I'm sure there will be a lot of changes in the summer. Sam Allardyce and
his backroom will go, so there is going to be a whole new management side
with new ideas.
"I'm guessing there will be new players coming in because there will be
people leaving who are out of contract etcetera, so there will be a lot of
changes for what is a big season for us ahead of going to the Olympic
Stadium the year after. We need to start it well."
Reflecting on Sunday's season-ending defeat at Newcastle United, Downing
felt the defeat summed up West Ham's inability to create and convert chances
in the second half of the season.
The Hammers were in charge before half-time at St James' Park, but could
muster only Downing's shot, which was saved by Tim Krul, despite controlling
possession. Newcastle recovered after the break to score through Moussa
Sissoko and Jonas Gutierrez to save themselves from relegation with a 2-0
victory.
"I thought we were in control and they were a little bit nervy, as was to be
expected, but we just didn't have that cutting edge or produce that final
pass really," the No11 recalled.
"I had that chance from Cressy's pass and I thought I was offside, to be
honest, but their 'keeper has still made the save.
"The second half was disappointing, really. We should have capitalised on
them being nervous and pressed them a little bit harder than we did. It was
a big goal for them when they scored and it gave them momentum and a bit of
confidence."
So, why did West Ham's season come down with Christmas decorations? Downing
believes it was a combination of factors which caused the Hammers to slide
down the table, most notably the absence of leading marksmen Diafra Sakho
and Andy Carroll.
"Obviously we were free-flowing and scoring goals, so losing Sakho was
massive for us," he confirmed. "He was on really good form and didn't really
have a dip, he just kept going and going.
"Enner Valencia came in and settled well, too, but we had a lot of new
players to the Premier League and they – and us – are going to have dips in
form and it might have caught up with them a little bit. Overall, though,
they settled well and you've seen other clubs where it's taken them a year
to settle.
"Overall, we've done well, but it's disappointing because we were fourth at
Christmas and have finished 12th. I said before the last game that we should
have finished in a European spot."
Downing also had words of thanks for outgoing manager Sam Allardyce, who
signed the England international from Liverpool in summer 2013 and helped
him to regain his spot in Roy Hodgson's squad earlier this season.
"You could see on the manager's face that he was disappointed, and he has
thanked us for the work we put in for him. He was a great manager to play
for and obviously took me out of the situation I was in at Liverpool where I
was not playing and I've played nearly every game for him since I've been
here.
"I'm disappointed for him because he's a good man to play for and
first-class whenever I had any problems and such like. It's a big decision
for the Club, but obviously Sam moves on."
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West Ham qualify for Europe - confirmed
Kumb.COM
Filed: Tuesday, 26th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's Europa Cup qualifying spot has been confirmed, the club have
announced today.
West Ham have qualified for the first qualifying round of the competition
and won £30,000 in the process, having finished top of the Fair Play league
in England, beating closest rivals Liverpool, Everton and Burnley.
A statement released on behalf of joint chairmen David Sullivan and David
Gold read: "We are delighted to have won a place in the UEFA Europa League
as we want to ensure the Boleyn Ground the best send-off possible, and
progress in this competition will certainly help with that.
"Starting in early July will bring its challenges, but everyone at the Club,
from the Board to the players and supporters will be relishing the
opportunity to feature on the European stage. It should be a fantastic
experience."
West Ham's first game in the Europa League will take place in the week
beginning June 29. The draw for the first and second qualifying rounds takes
place on Monday, 22 June.
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Hammers target set for Real role
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 26th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Rafa Benitez is on the verge of being appointed as the new manager of Real
Madrid.
The leading candidate to replace Sam Allardyce had previously expressed an
interest in moving to east London, although the sacking of Carlo Ancelotti
last night appears to have put paid to any chances of that happening.
Benitez, according to Ancelotti's agent Ernesto Bronzetti is now "99 per
cent" certain to be offered the vacant position at the Bernabeu. And talks
are set to take place later this week with view to bringing former reserve
team player Benitez back to Real.
Bronzetti also confirmed that the Italian - another on West Ham United's
wish-list - will be taking time out of football. "At the moment, Ancelotti
wants to take a year's rest," Bronzetti said. "That is his intention."
Former Chelsea boss Ancelotti said farewell to his former employees via
Twitter late last night. "I'd like to keep in mind this two fantastic years
at Real Madrid," he penned. "Thanks to the club, the supporters and my
players."
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West Ham co-chairman David Gold confident of attracting big-name manager
Last Updated: 26/05/15 8:43pm
SSN
Co-owner David Gold says it was the right time for a change in the West Ham
dugout, both for the club and for ex-manager Sam Allardyce. West Ham
co-chairman David Gold believes the club's future stadium can help lure one
of Europe's big managers to the club.
The Hammers sacked Sam Allardyce after finishing 12th in the Premier League
but with Europa League football via the Fair Play League and the move to the
Olympic Stadium just a year away, Gold is confident they will not be short
of illustrious names to choose from.
With names such as Rafa Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti mentioned as targets,
Gold said: "I don't think there's any doubt about that. When you see the
Olympic Stadium, and I see it once a month or so, it's just an amazing,
iconic stadium.
"This will not only encourage managers to come and manage West Ham in such a
venue, but it will also attract players. It's a once in a lifetime
opportunity for West Ham United to challenge at the very top.
Speaking on The Morning View, Paul Merson and Alan Smith question the timing
of West Ham's decision to part ways with Sam Allardyce.
"West Ham is one of the great clubs in the Premier League with an amazing
tradition. If you add the Olympic Stadium then it's an amazing package for
any manager anywhere in the world.
"Everybody is on our radar. We are looking for the best and only time will
tell."
On the departure of Allardyce, Gold added: "Sam did an amazing job in the
four seasons he was with us. He did everything we asked - he got us
promoted. It's true we expected to get promoted without having to go through
the play-offs but we went to Wembley and had a fantastic time there.
"We then asked him to keep us up and he did that for three seasons. I wish
Sam well. He's a fantastic manager."
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Marcelo Bielsa wants West Ham job: Marseille boss rejects Sampdoria in
favour of Premier League
22:03, 25 MAY 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
With their move to the Olympic Stadium just 12 months away, West Ham want a
big name capable of taking them to the next level
The Mirror
Marseille boss Marcelo Bielsa wants the West Ham job.
The former Chile and Athletic Bilbao coach is understood to have rejected
interest from Italian club Sampdoria.
Bielsa has made it clear to the Hammers that he would rather move to the
Premier League to succeed Sam Allardyce.
It is a boost for the East Londoners, who had already had the 59-year-old,
currently learning English, on their shortlist.
With their move to the Olympic Stadium just 12 months away, West Ham want a
big name capable of taking them to the next level.
They want to be playing in Europe and to be reaching the latter stages of
the domestic cup competitions.
On a tight budget, Bielsa has led Marseille into next season's Europa
League, having been narrowly beaten to a Champions League spot by Monaco.
After his club's 3-0 win over Bastia at the weekend, Bielsa - whose contract
is coming to an end - congratulated the players individually but refused to
confirm whether he would be staying.
Allardyce left Upton Park by mutual consent in the wake of West Ham's 2-0
defeat at Newcastle on Sunday.
The Hammers have already missed out on Rafa Benitez, having agreed terms on
a three-year deal with him before Real Madrid moved in to open talks .
Real Sociedad boss David Moyes has rejected several offers to return to
England and wants to stay in Spain.
Although Slaven Bilic, set to leave Besiktas, is the bookies' favourite, the
Hammers are in no rush and are looking at other options.
Bielsa, who led Argentina to Olympic Gold and the Copa America Final in
2004, has a reputation for attacking football - with an emphasis on fitness
- based around hard workers rather than star names.
He is also a combustible figure who refused to play players bought for him
at Marseille that he didn't want.
Last summer Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate were among the players at West Ham
brought in even though Allardyce had not been in complete agreement.
Bielsa would, however, fit the ambitious profile of the kind of manager that
West Ham are now hoping to attract.
The Irons want Allardyce's successor to continue the club's tradition of
bringing through their academy talents.
Bielsa helped Chile - where he worked with Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez - to the
World Cup in 2010. The achievement - following two tournament absences -
came after he fast-tracked youngsters and brought in a more attacking
mindset.
Bielsa also led Athletic Bilbao, where he worked with Manchester United's
Ander Herrera, to the Copa del Rey and Europa League finals three years ago.
At Marseille he had the club in title contention until defeats over the
second half of the season ended their chances.
He has still finished with the club's highest points tally for several
years.
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Gold convinced we'll have big name boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
David Gold is convinced the Hammers will soon be announcing a big name
manager.
Speaking earlier today he said: "I don't think there's any doubt about that.
When you see the Olympic Stadium, and I see it once a month or so, it's just
an amazing, iconic stadium.
"This will not only encourage managers to come and manage West Ham in such a
venue, but it will also attract players. It's a once in a lifetime
opportunity for West Ham United to challenge at the very top.
"West Ham is one of the great clubs in the Premier League with an amazing
tradition. If you add the Olympic Stadium then it's an amazing package for
any manager anywhere in the world.
"Everybody is on our radar. We are looking for the best and only time will
tell."
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Irons react to Di Matteo link
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Roberto Di Matteo will not become West Ham's new manager!
Some betting forms reacted quickly this morning by installing him as second
favourite to Slaven Bilic after his departure from Schalke.
However, as soon as the news broke ClaretandHugh asked its regular sources
at Upton Park whether the move on the betting lists had legs inside the
club.
And we were told categorically by a top insider: "No, that wont happen. You
can forget that one."
Senior media spokesman and football odds maker for William Hill, Joe
Cottrill commenting on the Di Matteo odds said: "It really doesn't take much
to see people spring into the market at this time of the year.
"It doesn't take a bucket load of money either and there hasn't been a great
deal for him. It's obviously more to do with Schalke departure.
"These manager markets are very volatile and can vary from day to day with
every new rumour."
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Europa Cup – the full calendar
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
With the Hammers now qualified for Europe via the Fair Play League, here is
the full list of dates for the Europa Cup competition – right through to our
place in the Final next May in Basel!!!
First qualifying round, second leg – July 9
Second qualifying round, first leg – July 16
Second qualifying round, second leg – July 23
Third qualifying round. first leg – July 30
Third qualifying round, second leg – August 6
Play-off round, first leg – August 20 Play-off round, second leg – August 27
Group stage, matchday one – September 17
Group stage, matchday two – October 1
Group stage, matchday three – October 22
Group stage, matchday four – November 5
Group stage, matchday five – November 26
Group stage, matchday six – December 10
Round of 32, first leg – February 18
Round of 32, second leg – February 25
Round of 16, first leg – March 10
Round of 16, second leg – March 17
Quarter-finals, first leg – April 7
Quarter-finals, second leg – April 14
Semi-finals, first leg – April 28
Semi-finals, second leg – May 5 Final (St. Jakob-Park, Basel) – May 18
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons fear Liverpool will Kop Klopp
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham fear that Liverpool are the dark horses to grab Jurgen Klopp as
their new manager before many weeks are out.
The Irons haven't given up on the 47 year old German but sources close to
the managerial situation seem fairly convinced that Liverpool will be his
next destination.
The two Davids are currently in their Marbella summer retreat which they use
every year at the same time for their new season planning meeting.
And top of the list for their attention of course is the managerial
situation which is being fired up by the ever-changing bookies list.
Klopp is currently leading the ClaretandHugh fans poll to become the next
Upton Park boss but our sources inside the club are not confident he can be
wooed into the club.
We were told: "There's a big buzz on the grapevine that Liverpool are into
him in a big way. He's perhaps the most desired manager in world football
right now and we shall keep on until we hear differently and definitely."
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Report: Hendon to become Orient boss
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham first team coach Ian Hendon has agreed to become the new manager of
Leyton Orient, Sky Sports are reporting.
Orient have been looking for a new manager after Fabio Liverani departed by
mutual consent earlier this month after failing to avoid relegation to
League Two.
Hendon played for Spurs, Barnet and Leyton Orient and had spells managing
Barnet and Dover Athletic as well being the assistant manager of Gillingham
before he joined West Ham in 2011.
Hendon will become the second of Sam's backroom boys to exit West Ham
following the departure of former attacking coach Teddy Sheringham to League
2 Stevenage. Assistant manager Neil McDonald has been linked with the
Blackpool job with reports claiming talks are ongoing.
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Di Matteo is new bookies second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Roberto Di Matteo has been made the second favourite by book makers to take
charge of West Ham following his resignation as head coach of Schalke 04.
The 44-year-old had been in charge of the Bundesliga club for just seven and
half months.
But defeat by Hamburg on Saturday left Schalke with two wins from 10 games
to miss out on a Champions League place. Schalke ended the season sixth
meaning they will compete in next season's Europa League.
Di Matteo said he resigned because of a difference of opinion over plans for
next season following a meeting with the club's director of sport Horst
Heldt. "I offered a plan for a possible successful future and what the
conditions for that would need to be," said Di Matteo, who had two years
left in his contract. "It became clear that the club had a different
emphasis. This is why I decided to resign from my position as head coach."
The Italian led Chelsea to the 2012 Champions League title but was replaced
by Spaniard Rafael Benitez after eight months.
Di Matteo started his manager career At MK Dons before later taking West
Brom to promotion to the Premier League.
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Diafra's fabulous message to fans
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
No other player typifies the spirit of the Irons better for us at
ClaretandHugh than Diafra Sakho.
And here he sends a fabulous message to the fans at the end of a great
goalscoring season despite his injuries via Twitter under the words: To my
dear Iron Family , i would like to say ……@whufc_official #COYI
Thanks to you for everything this season too Diafra.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that they have qualified for a
place in the 2015/16 UEFA Europa League, for the first time since 2006/2007,
after finishing top of the Barclays Premier League's Fair Play table.
In a joint statement, West Ham United Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold welcomed the news. They said: "We are delighted to have won a
place in the UEFA Europa League as we want to ensure the Boleyn Ground the
best send-off possible, and progress in this competition will certainly help
with that.
"Starting in early July will bring its challenges, but everyone at the Club,
from the Board to the players and supporters will be relishing the
opportunity to feature on the European stage. It should be a fantastic
experience."
West Ham will be among 104 teams whose European campaigns will begin with
the first qualifying round on 2 July, with three rounds to negotiate before
August's play-off round determines the 22 teams who come through the
qualification process and advance to the Europa League's group stage.
The draw for the qualifying rounds will take place as follows:
UEFA Europa League first and second qualifying round draws: 22 June
UEFA Europa League third qualifying round draw: 17 July
UEFA Europa League play-off round draw: 7 August
UEFA Europa League group stage draw: 28 August
Click here for full information on draw and round dates.
England will also be represented in this competition by Tottenham Hotspur,
Liverpool and either Southampton or Aston Villa, depending on the latter's
result in the FA Cup final.
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UEFA Europa League – who could we face?
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans have spent Tuesday afternoon enthusiastically scouring
the internet, trying to work out who their heroes could face in the early
rounds of the UEFA Europa League.
A glance down the list of clubs who have joined the Hammers in the
tournament's first qualifying round dispels suggestions that it is the
reserve of clubs from the continent's smallest leagues.
Instead, the 104 clubs included in the first qualifying round draw are
expected to represent 41 different nations, with West Ham being England's
sole representative at that stage of the competition.
The Hammers are one of three clubs to have qualified for the tournament
through finishing top of their domestic Fair Play League – Dutch side Go
Ahead Eagles and Irish outfit University College Dublin (UCD) being the
other two.
Go Ahead will be the only Dutch club in the first qualifying round, which
kicks-off with the first leg on Thursday 2 July, while UCD are joined by
fellow countrymen FAI Cup winners St Patrick's Athletic and League of
Ireland runners-up Cork City and fourth-place Shamrock Rovers.
So, who else is in the first qualifying draw, which will be made on 22 June?
Of the clubs to have already qualified, the Hammers have faced two of them
previously.
FC Lahti finished third in the Finnish Veikkausluga, and were known by their
former guise of Lahden Reipas when West Ham beat them 5-2 on aggregate in
the European Cup Winners' Cup first round in 1975/76.
Georgian side Dinamo Tbilisi finished third in their domestic league this
season, earning them the chance to be drawn against the club they knocked
out of the European Cup Winners' Cup at the quarter-final stage in 1980/81.
Then a Soviet league club, Dinamo won 4-1 courtesy of arguably the finest
performance by an visiting side that the Boleyn Ground has ever witnessed.
Of the teams whose qualification has been confirmed, West Ham are expected
to be amongst the seeded teams, including Moldovan Cup winners Sheriff
Tiraspol, Norwegian league runners-up Rosenborg, Swedish side Elfsborg and
Croatian league runners-up Hadjuk Split.
Also in the hat are 1991 European Cup finalists Red Star Belgrade of Serbia,
1983 European Cup Winners' Cup winners Aberdeen of Scotland and two-time
UEFA Cup winners IFK Gothenburg of Sweden.
Due to expected seedings, West Ham are almost certain not to meet any of the
above in the first qualifying round, bar FC Lahti, who are unlikely to be
seeded.
That is not to say that the unseeded teams could not present a banana skin
for West Ham, with Norwegian side Odd, Hungarians Ferencvaros and MTK
Budapest, Latvians Skonto Riga and League of Ireland title chasers Cork City
– who hosted the Hammers in a friendly a year ago – all potential opponents.
For those among the Claret and Blue Army who want to collect some air miles
while following their heroes, the longest potential trip is to Kazakhstan
Cup winners Kairat, based in the city of Almaty a mammoth 3,482 miles from
the Boleyn Ground. Compatriots Ordabasy finished fourth in the Kazakhstan
Premier League and are based just a tad closer at 3,211 miles from east
London.
If you fancy a bit of sun on your back, Balzan FC finished fourth in the
Maltese Premier League and are unseeded, as are the yet to be crowned
Gibraltan Cup winners. Unfortunately, Cypriot clubs Apollon Limassol and
Omonia Nicosia are both seeded!
Closer to home, the shortest potential trip West Ham could make is likely to
be to Welsh Premier League side Newtown, who qualified through a play-off
and are based in the Powys town just 208 miles from the Boleyn Ground.
Fellow Welsh sides Airbus UK Broughton (214 miles) and Bala Town (221 miles)
will also represent Wales in the 2015/16 competition.
The two Scottish sides – Aberdeen and one other – are both likely to be
seeded, but Northern Irish clubs Glentoran and Glenavon are also expected to
be among the unseeded clubs in the draw, as are representatives from
Albania, Azerbaijan, Iceland, Luxembourg, Montenegro and San Marino, among
others.
Whoever West Ham are drawn to face, the Claret and Blue Army are sure to
enthusiastically follow their team over land and, providing we do not draw
any of the three Welsh sides in the hat, sea in their thousands. Roll on 22
June!
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Hartson wants new boss to play 'exciting football'
WHUFC.com
John Hartson says it is imperative that West Ham United appoint a new
manager who will excite and be embraced by the Club's 'terrific supporters'.
The former Hammers and Wales striker, who scored 33 goals in 73 appearances
in Claret and Blue between 1997 and 1999, insists the new boss must be a man
who tries his best to follow the 'West Ham Way'.
With the Hammers now confirmed entrants in next season's UEFA Europa League,
Hartson is hoping the Board appoint a man who can get fans out of their
seats on a regular basis.
"I played in front of the West Ham fans for two years and they are terrific
supporters," said the 40-year-old. "I just feel that they respect the job
Sam has done but they were not very happy with certain elements of Sam
Allardyce being in charge.
"The man they want is a manager who is going to play exciting football, a
manager that likes to play out from the back.
The Swansea-born forward, who also excelled for Luton Town, Arsenal,
Wimbledon and Celtic during a successful career, says the Hammers'
passionate fan base value entertaining, passing football and will demand as
such during the Club's historic final season at the Boleyn Ground, and going
forward into the new Stadium in Stratford.
"West Ham have always traditionally passed the ball there under the lights
at the Boleyn," continued Hartson, who played in the side which finished in
a record-high fifth position in the Premier League in 1998/99.
"Obviously I think the new Stadium is very exciting for them so, as I said,
it's imperative that they get the right man that the crowd can get behind as
well."
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Downing expecting busy summer
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing expects plenty of changes over what could be a very short
but eventful summer break for West Ham United.
Should the Hammers qualify for the UEFA Europa League through the Fair Play
League, the squad could be back in training as early as 22 June – just four
weeks from now – with a new manager at the helm to boot.
With a host of players either out of contract or returning to their parent
clubs at the end of loan spells, Downing could have plenty of new faces to
get to know come next month.
"Whoever comes in has obviously got really good players and we've proved
this season that we can mix it with the best," the midfielder told West Ham
TV.
"I'm sure there will be a lot of changes in the summer. Sam Allardyce and
his backroom will go, so there is going to be a whole new management side
with new ideas.
"I'm guessing there will be new players coming in because there will be
people leaving who are out of contract etcetera, so there will be a lot of
changes for what is a big season for us ahead of going to the Olympic
Stadium the year after. We need to start it well."
Reflecting on Sunday's season-ending defeat at Newcastle United, Downing
felt the defeat summed up West Ham's inability to create and convert chances
in the second half of the season.
The Hammers were in charge before half-time at St James' Park, but could
muster only Downing's shot, which was saved by Tim Krul, despite controlling
possession. Newcastle recovered after the break to score through Moussa
Sissoko and Jonas Gutierrez to save themselves from relegation with a 2-0
victory.
"I thought we were in control and they were a little bit nervy, as was to be
expected, but we just didn't have that cutting edge or produce that final
pass really," the No11 recalled.
"I had that chance from Cressy's pass and I thought I was offside, to be
honest, but their 'keeper has still made the save.
"The second half was disappointing, really. We should have capitalised on
them being nervous and pressed them a little bit harder than we did. It was
a big goal for them when they scored and it gave them momentum and a bit of
confidence."
So, why did West Ham's season come down with Christmas decorations? Downing
believes it was a combination of factors which caused the Hammers to slide
down the table, most notably the absence of leading marksmen Diafra Sakho
and Andy Carroll.
"Obviously we were free-flowing and scoring goals, so losing Sakho was
massive for us," he confirmed. "He was on really good form and didn't really
have a dip, he just kept going and going.
"Enner Valencia came in and settled well, too, but we had a lot of new
players to the Premier League and they – and us – are going to have dips in
form and it might have caught up with them a little bit. Overall, though,
they settled well and you've seen other clubs where it's taken them a year
to settle.
"Overall, we've done well, but it's disappointing because we were fourth at
Christmas and have finished 12th. I said before the last game that we should
have finished in a European spot."
Downing also had words of thanks for outgoing manager Sam Allardyce, who
signed the England international from Liverpool in summer 2013 and helped
him to regain his spot in Roy Hodgson's squad earlier this season.
"You could see on the manager's face that he was disappointed, and he has
thanked us for the work we put in for him. He was a great manager to play
for and obviously took me out of the situation I was in at Liverpool where I
was not playing and I've played nearly every game for him since I've been
here.
"I'm disappointed for him because he's a good man to play for and
first-class whenever I had any problems and such like. It's a big decision
for the Club, but obviously Sam moves on."
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West Ham qualify for Europe - confirmed
Kumb.COM
Filed: Tuesday, 26th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's Europa Cup qualifying spot has been confirmed, the club have
announced today.
West Ham have qualified for the first qualifying round of the competition
and won £30,000 in the process, having finished top of the Fair Play league
in England, beating closest rivals Liverpool, Everton and Burnley.
A statement released on behalf of joint chairmen David Sullivan and David
Gold read: "We are delighted to have won a place in the UEFA Europa League
as we want to ensure the Boleyn Ground the best send-off possible, and
progress in this competition will certainly help with that.
"Starting in early July will bring its challenges, but everyone at the Club,
from the Board to the players and supporters will be relishing the
opportunity to feature on the European stage. It should be a fantastic
experience."
West Ham's first game in the Europa League will take place in the week
beginning June 29. The draw for the first and second qualifying rounds takes
place on Monday, 22 June.
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Hammers target set for Real role
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 26th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Rafa Benitez is on the verge of being appointed as the new manager of Real
Madrid.
The leading candidate to replace Sam Allardyce had previously expressed an
interest in moving to east London, although the sacking of Carlo Ancelotti
last night appears to have put paid to any chances of that happening.
Benitez, according to Ancelotti's agent Ernesto Bronzetti is now "99 per
cent" certain to be offered the vacant position at the Bernabeu. And talks
are set to take place later this week with view to bringing former reserve
team player Benitez back to Real.
Bronzetti also confirmed that the Italian - another on West Ham United's
wish-list - will be taking time out of football. "At the moment, Ancelotti
wants to take a year's rest," Bronzetti said. "That is his intention."
Former Chelsea boss Ancelotti said farewell to his former employees via
Twitter late last night. "I'd like to keep in mind this two fantastic years
at Real Madrid," he penned. "Thanks to the club, the supporters and my
players."
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West Ham co-chairman David Gold confident of attracting big-name manager
Last Updated: 26/05/15 8:43pm
SSN
Co-owner David Gold says it was the right time for a change in the West Ham
dugout, both for the club and for ex-manager Sam Allardyce. West Ham
co-chairman David Gold believes the club's future stadium can help lure one
of Europe's big managers to the club.
The Hammers sacked Sam Allardyce after finishing 12th in the Premier League
but with Europa League football via the Fair Play League and the move to the
Olympic Stadium just a year away, Gold is confident they will not be short
of illustrious names to choose from.
With names such as Rafa Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti mentioned as targets,
Gold said: "I don't think there's any doubt about that. When you see the
Olympic Stadium, and I see it once a month or so, it's just an amazing,
iconic stadium.
"This will not only encourage managers to come and manage West Ham in such a
venue, but it will also attract players. It's a once in a lifetime
opportunity for West Ham United to challenge at the very top.
Speaking on The Morning View, Paul Merson and Alan Smith question the timing
of West Ham's decision to part ways with Sam Allardyce.
"West Ham is one of the great clubs in the Premier League with an amazing
tradition. If you add the Olympic Stadium then it's an amazing package for
any manager anywhere in the world.
"Everybody is on our radar. We are looking for the best and only time will
tell."
On the departure of Allardyce, Gold added: "Sam did an amazing job in the
four seasons he was with us. He did everything we asked - he got us
promoted. It's true we expected to get promoted without having to go through
the play-offs but we went to Wembley and had a fantastic time there.
"We then asked him to keep us up and he did that for three seasons. I wish
Sam well. He's a fantastic manager."
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Marcelo Bielsa wants West Ham job: Marseille boss rejects Sampdoria in
favour of Premier League
22:03, 25 MAY 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
With their move to the Olympic Stadium just 12 months away, West Ham want a
big name capable of taking them to the next level
The Mirror
Marseille boss Marcelo Bielsa wants the West Ham job.
The former Chile and Athletic Bilbao coach is understood to have rejected
interest from Italian club Sampdoria.
Bielsa has made it clear to the Hammers that he would rather move to the
Premier League to succeed Sam Allardyce.
It is a boost for the East Londoners, who had already had the 59-year-old,
currently learning English, on their shortlist.
With their move to the Olympic Stadium just 12 months away, West Ham want a
big name capable of taking them to the next level.
They want to be playing in Europe and to be reaching the latter stages of
the domestic cup competitions.
On a tight budget, Bielsa has led Marseille into next season's Europa
League, having been narrowly beaten to a Champions League spot by Monaco.
After his club's 3-0 win over Bastia at the weekend, Bielsa - whose contract
is coming to an end - congratulated the players individually but refused to
confirm whether he would be staying.
Allardyce left Upton Park by mutual consent in the wake of West Ham's 2-0
defeat at Newcastle on Sunday.
The Hammers have already missed out on Rafa Benitez, having agreed terms on
a three-year deal with him before Real Madrid moved in to open talks .
Real Sociedad boss David Moyes has rejected several offers to return to
England and wants to stay in Spain.
Although Slaven Bilic, set to leave Besiktas, is the bookies' favourite, the
Hammers are in no rush and are looking at other options.
Bielsa, who led Argentina to Olympic Gold and the Copa America Final in
2004, has a reputation for attacking football - with an emphasis on fitness
- based around hard workers rather than star names.
He is also a combustible figure who refused to play players bought for him
at Marseille that he didn't want.
Last summer Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate were among the players at West Ham
brought in even though Allardyce had not been in complete agreement.
Bielsa would, however, fit the ambitious profile of the kind of manager that
West Ham are now hoping to attract.
The Irons want Allardyce's successor to continue the club's tradition of
bringing through their academy talents.
Bielsa helped Chile - where he worked with Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez - to the
World Cup in 2010. The achievement - following two tournament absences -
came after he fast-tracked youngsters and brought in a more attacking
mindset.
Bielsa also led Athletic Bilbao, where he worked with Manchester United's
Ander Herrera, to the Copa del Rey and Europa League finals three years ago.
At Marseille he had the club in title contention until defeats over the
second half of the season ended their chances.
He has still finished with the club's highest points tally for several
years.
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Gold convinced we'll have big name boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
David Gold is convinced the Hammers will soon be announcing a big name
manager.
Speaking earlier today he said: "I don't think there's any doubt about that.
When you see the Olympic Stadium, and I see it once a month or so, it's just
an amazing, iconic stadium.
"This will not only encourage managers to come and manage West Ham in such a
venue, but it will also attract players. It's a once in a lifetime
opportunity for West Ham United to challenge at the very top.
"West Ham is one of the great clubs in the Premier League with an amazing
tradition. If you add the Olympic Stadium then it's an amazing package for
any manager anywhere in the world.
"Everybody is on our radar. We are looking for the best and only time will
tell."
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Irons react to Di Matteo link
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Roberto Di Matteo will not become West Ham's new manager!
Some betting forms reacted quickly this morning by installing him as second
favourite to Slaven Bilic after his departure from Schalke.
However, as soon as the news broke ClaretandHugh asked its regular sources
at Upton Park whether the move on the betting lists had legs inside the
club.
And we were told categorically by a top insider: "No, that wont happen. You
can forget that one."
Senior media spokesman and football odds maker for William Hill, Joe
Cottrill commenting on the Di Matteo odds said: "It really doesn't take much
to see people spring into the market at this time of the year.
"It doesn't take a bucket load of money either and there hasn't been a great
deal for him. It's obviously more to do with Schalke departure.
"These manager markets are very volatile and can vary from day to day with
every new rumour."
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Europa Cup – the full calendar
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
With the Hammers now qualified for Europe via the Fair Play League, here is
the full list of dates for the Europa Cup competition – right through to our
place in the Final next May in Basel!!!
First qualifying round, second leg – July 9
Second qualifying round, first leg – July 16
Second qualifying round, second leg – July 23
Third qualifying round. first leg – July 30
Third qualifying round, second leg – August 6
Play-off round, first leg – August 20 Play-off round, second leg – August 27
Group stage, matchday one – September 17
Group stage, matchday two – October 1
Group stage, matchday three – October 22
Group stage, matchday four – November 5
Group stage, matchday five – November 26
Group stage, matchday six – December 10
Round of 32, first leg – February 18
Round of 32, second leg – February 25
Round of 16, first leg – March 10
Round of 16, second leg – March 17
Quarter-finals, first leg – April 7
Quarter-finals, second leg – April 14
Semi-finals, first leg – April 28
Semi-finals, second leg – May 5 Final (St. Jakob-Park, Basel) – May 18
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Irons fear Liverpool will Kop Klopp
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham fear that Liverpool are the dark horses to grab Jurgen Klopp as
their new manager before many weeks are out.
The Irons haven't given up on the 47 year old German but sources close to
the managerial situation seem fairly convinced that Liverpool will be his
next destination.
The two Davids are currently in their Marbella summer retreat which they use
every year at the same time for their new season planning meeting.
And top of the list for their attention of course is the managerial
situation which is being fired up by the ever-changing bookies list.
Klopp is currently leading the ClaretandHugh fans poll to become the next
Upton Park boss but our sources inside the club are not confident he can be
wooed into the club.
We were told: "There's a big buzz on the grapevine that Liverpool are into
him in a big way. He's perhaps the most desired manager in world football
right now and we shall keep on until we hear differently and definitely."
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Report: Hendon to become Orient boss
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham first team coach Ian Hendon has agreed to become the new manager of
Leyton Orient, Sky Sports are reporting.
Orient have been looking for a new manager after Fabio Liverani departed by
mutual consent earlier this month after failing to avoid relegation to
League Two.
Hendon played for Spurs, Barnet and Leyton Orient and had spells managing
Barnet and Dover Athletic as well being the assistant manager of Gillingham
before he joined West Ham in 2011.
Hendon will become the second of Sam's backroom boys to exit West Ham
following the departure of former attacking coach Teddy Sheringham to League
2 Stevenage. Assistant manager Neil McDonald has been linked with the
Blackpool job with reports claiming talks are ongoing.
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Di Matteo is new bookies second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Roberto Di Matteo has been made the second favourite by book makers to take
charge of West Ham following his resignation as head coach of Schalke 04.
The 44-year-old had been in charge of the Bundesliga club for just seven and
half months.
But defeat by Hamburg on Saturday left Schalke with two wins from 10 games
to miss out on a Champions League place. Schalke ended the season sixth
meaning they will compete in next season's Europa League.
Di Matteo said he resigned because of a difference of opinion over plans for
next season following a meeting with the club's director of sport Horst
Heldt. "I offered a plan for a possible successful future and what the
conditions for that would need to be," said Di Matteo, who had two years
left in his contract. "It became clear that the club had a different
emphasis. This is why I decided to resign from my position as head coach."
The Italian led Chelsea to the 2012 Champions League title but was replaced
by Spaniard Rafael Benitez after eight months.
Di Matteo started his manager career At MK Dons before later taking West
Brom to promotion to the Premier League.
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Diafra's fabulous message to fans
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
No other player typifies the spirit of the Irons better for us at
ClaretandHugh than Diafra Sakho.
And here he sends a fabulous message to the fans at the end of a great
goalscoring season despite his injuries via Twitter under the words: To my
dear Iron Family , i would like to say ……@whufc_official #COYI
Thanks to you for everything this season too Diafra.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, May 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th May 2015
From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Evening Standard correspondent Ken Dyer has been covering West Ham United over land and sea for more than 40 years. He has also spent the last four seasons ghost-writing Sam Allardyce's column in London's daily newspaper...
Quite frankly Sunday's announcement that the Club will not be renewing Sam Allardyce's contract did not come as a great surprise considering all of the speculation over the past few weeks. From a purely personal perspective I'm a bit sad as I've ghost written his weekly column for the Evening Standard for the past four years and have built up a relationship and a friendship with him.
Looking back at his time at the Club, I think he's done everything asked of him and has brought the club out from what was a very low point to a period of stability. He took them out of the Championship and in to the Premier League at the first attempt, which is no mean feat. He gave the fans a marvellous time at Wembley and some other great wins, most notably against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Liverpool.
It's just a shame that during the second half of the season it fell away, largely due to injuries to key players, especially the strikers.
Overall, he gave us a real spine - West Ham over many years have had a reputation for playing some good football but maybe being a bit flaky and easy to beat at times. He changed that and made us a resilient team.
He established us a mid-table Premier League Club and it is a terrific achievement in such a short period of time. I think that will be his legacy.
I'm sure in the fullness of time he'll get back into the game. I think he'll now take a well-earned break and I wish him all the best.
I watched Sam's post-match interviews and he talked with dignity and there doesn't seem to be any hard feelings between him and the Club, which is good to see. I think as he said it's probably right time for both parties – the Club and him - to move on.
David Sullivan and David Gold have now started their hunt for a new manager and I think they need someone to take Sam's legacy forward. The number one priority is to stay in the Premier League next season and I think it's important we don't get too ahead of ourselves. In future years we can set our sights much higher but next year it's all about staying in the Premier League.
In terms of style of play we will be looking for, I think the fans were frustrated in the early days of Sam's time that we played a little too direct and the new manager has to recognise that and appreciate the history and tradition of the club.
They just need to keep the continuity and stability and potentially deal with the added challenge of starting the season early due to Europa League qualification.
It is a big challenge but an exciting one for the right man.
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Former Player Blog - Tony Cottee
WHUFC.com
Tony Cottee scored 146 goals in 336 appearances over two spells with West Ham United and was part of the Hammers side which finished in a record-high third place in Division One in 1985/86...
I would like to start by wishing Sam Allardyce all the best for the future after four years in charge of my Club, West Ham United.
I know Sam and am good friends with his no2 Neil McDonald from our time playing together at Everton. He, as well as Sam's other backroom staff, will also leave the Club and I wish them all the best too. Teddy Sheringham has already been appointed as Stevenage manager and I am sure Macca, Ian Hendon and Bobby Mimms will not be out of work for long.
Concentrating on the future, if the Board appoint the right man to succeed Sam and the new manager takes the Club to the next level, then it will prove to be the right decision not to renew his contract this summer.
Some supporters have complained about the style of football we have played under Sam and I have seen the Board's statement indicating that the new manager must be aware of the Club's traditions and the West Ham Way.
I think you have to get the balance right. We all want to play attractive, attacking football, but that is no good if we end up losing 5-4 every week and getting relegated. The key to it is getting the balance between style and substance.
I think Sam did a job up to a point and took the Club as far as he could in that regard. We knew what we were getting when Sam was appointed, so there have been no surprises.
There have been times when we have played some brilliant football and pulled off some outstanding wins, but there have also been times when we have not caught the eye and have gone through difficult spells of performances and results – take this season as an example!
Whoever is appointed to take over as manager needs to get that balance right as quickly as possible.
For me, Slaven Bilic is the number one choice to become West Ham United's new manager. When you look at his credentials, he has enjoyed success at both domestic and international level, was a fantastic player, is a top guy and also has a strong connection with the Club.
I think it is important, if possible, for a manager to have a connection with a club, whether that be as a former player or coach, and Slaven was a very good player for West Ham. I would love to see Slaven Bilic get the job, as he has proved himself with Croatia and Besiktas and I believe he is available.
I have seen other names be mentioned, like Jurgen Klopp and Eddie Howe, and it is very important that the Club makes the right decision at this important time.
The Board have appointed managers before, both at West Ham and before that at Birmingham City, and have a lot of experience in this area, so I am confident they will do their homework and make the right decision.
I understand that we will likely start the season early because of the Europa League, so it is also important that any decision is made as quickly as possible so that the new manager can be fully prepared for that challenge.
All of us West Ham fans certainly have an interesting summer ahead!
Come on you Irons!
TC
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West Ham keeping tabs on Rodgers as top targets fall
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are keeping a close eye on the developing situation at Liverpool with view to manager Brendan Rodgers' situation.
The Irishman was panned by Reds fans yesterday following the 6-1 thrashing at Stoke - their heaviest defeat in Premier League history - since when many have been calling for Rodgers' head.
In charge at Anfield for three years, the 42-year-old was close to clinching Liverpool's first title since the 1980s last year. However that has been sandwiched by two very ordinary seasons, leading to the current calls for his immediate replacement.
West Ham's hunt for a successor to Sam Allardyce has suffered two major blows in the past few hours, with leading candidates Carlo Ancelotti and Jurgen Klopp both (indirectly) ruling themselves out of the running.
Interest in Napoli boss Rafa Benitez remains extremely high, although he continues to be linked with Ancelotti's post at Real Madrid, which has just become available at time of writing.
And whilst Slaven Bilic is understood to have given West Ham's advances his tacit approval, the club are still keeping their options open hence the fresh interest in Rodgers.
A former defender who spent the bulk of his career representing clubs in the lower leagues, Rodgers cut his managerial teeth at Stamford Bridge as reserve team manager learning from the likes of Felipe Scolari and Jose Mourinho.
His first major appointment came in 2008, when he took control of Watford. Having led the Hornets to a 13th-place Championship finish, he returned to former club Reading the following season - a marriage destined for failure, as he left the Majedski just six months later by mutual consent.
In July 2010 Championship-side Swansea came calling and within 12 months he had repaid their faith by leading them to the Premier League via a Wembley play-off win against former club Reading (4-2).
Having secured a second season in the top flight, he joined current club Liverpool in June 2012. An initial three-year contract was superseded by a new four-year deal last season, tying him to the club until summer 2018.
* In other news tonight, former England boss Steve McClaren has been fired by Derby County after failing to lead them to the Championship play-offs. The 54-year-old has also been linked to the vacancy at West Ham.
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Klopp to take six-months off
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Jurgen Klopp is set to disappoint a string of clubs across Europe - by taking a six-month sabbatical at the start of next season.
The 47-year-old is one of the most highly-sought after managers in the game today having agreed to leave Dortmund, with whom he has spent the last seven years.
However highly-regarded German sports agency Bild revealed this afternoon that Klopp will reject all offers of a new management role in order to recharge his batteries, with view to returning to the game in 2016.
When asked to comment on his future, Klopp said: "I am a football coach. I want to work for a while, but at the moment it is difficult."
And with view to taking a role in Spain, where he has been linked with Real Madrid, he added: "I can speak almost every German dialect, so I can learn Spanish - if I have to."
In addition to Real Madrid, Klopp has been linked with the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and West Ham in reent weeks.
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Who's in the frame for the West Ham job?
By Jamie Casey
Last Updated: 25/05/15 6:12pm
SSN
Following confirmation of Sam Allardyce's departure as West Ham manager, Sky Bet look at the most likely candidates to succeed him.
Slaven Bilic – 1/2
Having made 48 appearances for the club between 1996 and 1997, Slaven Bilic appears to be a popular choice among the West Ham support. The former Croatia manager – who is stepping down from his role as Besiktas manager – is also popular among Sky Bet's punters, with Bilic attracting by far the biggest number of stakes, even doubling the figure of the second most backed candidate – Rafa Benitez (20/1).
Unai Emery - 7/2
Sevilla boss Unai Emery
Having been linked with the posts at Real Madrid and AC Milan, Unai Emery is a candidate West Ham fans should not turn their noses up at. The Sevilla boss will bid to land back-to-back Europa League titles with the Spanish side on Wednesday, and has guided the club to two consecutive fifth-place finishes in La Liga. With Milan priced at 15/8 to be Carlo Ancelotti's next job and Rafa Benitez 1/4 to replace the Italian at Madrid, West Ham could well be the most attractive proposition for Emery this summer.
David Moyes – 6/1
Real Sociadad boss David Moyes
Bearing in mind the job David Moyes did in his reign at Everton, appointing the Scotsman could prove a shrewd move from the West Ham hierarchy. Moyes signed an 18-month contract with Real Sociadad last November, steering them from 15th in the table to a 12th-place finish. Adequate, if unspectacular, it is not yet known if Moyes will see out his deal, but West Ham appears to be his best option for a route back into the English top flight, with Newcastle 14/1 to appoint him.
Michael Laudrup – 8/1
Lekhwiya boss Michael Laudrup
Since leaving Swansea in February of last year, Michael Laudrup has resisted a handful of chances to return to English football, preferring to honour his contract at Qatar side Lekhwiya instead. He has been busy guiding Lekhwiya to the Qatar Stars League and Crown Prince Cup, but his contract runs out next month, paving the way for a return to the Premier League. The Dane has distanced himself from mid-table opportunities, but it is not clear how inviting he finds the positions at West Ham (8/1) and Newcastle (8/1).
The outsiders
Former Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo
Roberto Di Matteo, who is expected to be sacked by Schalke following their sixth-place finish in the Bundesliga, is next in the pecking order at 12/1. Under-fire Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is the same price as Di Matteo, with Jurgen Klopp rated 5/4 to be the next manager in the door at Anfield. Steve McClaren is a 16/1 shout, while a return for Harry Redknapp is 20/1. Ancelotti has also been linked with the Hammers' post, but it's an unlikely rumour at 25/1.
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West Ham have taken a gamble by not renewing Sam Allardyce's contract, says Paul Merson
Last Updated: 25/05/15 2:11pm
SSN
West Ham have risked their Premier League status next season by not renewing Sam Allardyce's contract, according to Paul Merson.
Merson believes Allardyce had all the qualities needed to ensure West Ham would go to the Olympic Stadium as a Premier League outfit.
Allardyce was informed of his departure on Friday which was publicly confirmed moments after his side's defeat to Newcastle on the final day of the season.
The style of football was a point of contention with the supporters at Upton Park but Niall Quinn alongside Merson struggled to understand what the West Ham 'way' is.
"I don't know. What is the West Ham way? We are talking 1960s when they had a really good team," he said.
"It's a big gamble. One thing you are assured of with Sam Allardyce is you get a top manager. They won't get relegated if he was manager next season. They are not a shoo-in to stay up next season."
Quinn added: "I saw them right up until Christmas when they were in fourth and they were still giving out about him.
"He doesn't fit into the West Ham way - what are they wishing for as a football club?"
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Roeder backs Bilic as good fit
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Football - West Ham United, Upton Park, London - 14/6/01 New West Ham Manager Glenn Roeder Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Richard Heathcote Digital
Former manager Glen Roeder insists Bilic will be able to handle the pressure at West Ham – because he has already dealt with the difficulties of Turkish football.
"He's as good a fit as anyone else," Roeder told the Talksport Sports Breakfast show. "It's always a gamble getting a new manager, you can only judge them on their past records.
"Slaven has done well with Crotia and at every club he's managed. Turkish football is a very difficult place to manage and he's come through that with Besiktas. He seems a tough guy."
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Hammers linked to Benfica winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Benfica's Ola John is the latest target being checked out by the Irons.
According to Foot Mercato John is expected to leave the club this season and is being courted by the Irons who are reprotedely very keen on the winger.
As reported earlier Sampdoria's Italian international striker Eder is another target for the club where the signing policy is being solely directed by recruitment director to the board Tony Henry.
With the likes of Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole on their way out of Upton Park, the Hammers will free up wages although no fee for the left sided player has yet been agreed.
John is tied to Benfica until 2017 would cost around £9 million.
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Cottee: "Let me be your adviser Daves"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Tony Cottee has mounted a cheeky job application to become a football adviser at West Ham.
The former striker – whilst claiming the board have taken a huge gamble in getting rid of Sam Allardyce – then makes it clear he's the bloke to help them sort the future!
Speaking in his London 24.com column he says: "It's a huge gamble by the board going into what is one of the most important seasons in the club's history as we get ready for the Olympic Stadium."
He backs Slaven Bilic as Allardyce's replacement and says: " I know Bilic left us to join Everton. I am not going to criticise him for that as I did exactly the same thing.
"But Bilic has done superbly with Croatia in the World Cup, has managed in the Champions League and in some very volatile leagues, so that is why I would go for him."
Then comes the job application as Cottee declares:" One thing I would say is that I find it hard to believe that any board can go forward without someone who has played the game at a high level to advise them.
"I am always available, I have a huge passion for the club, but my phone never seems to ring.
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REPORT: Irons £8 million striker bid
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are this afternoon reported to be weighing up a bid for Sampdoria's Italian international striker Eder.
He has scored nine goals and provided four assists and scored for the national side on his international debut and La Gazzetta dello Sport report that the Biscione have valued the 28-year-old at around €10 million.
The newspaper says the Irons have offered €8m for the Brazilian-born attacker.
However, inter Milan are also keen nd my be ready to get involved in an auction for the striker.
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Cressie: 'Thanks gaffer'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Aaron Cresswell has signed off for the summer with a word on behalf of departed boss Sam Allardyce.
The former Ipswich left back who became Hammer of the Year in his debut season has expressed his thanks to the former manager.
Cresswell tweeted: "Looking forward to next season. Thanks again for an unforgettable season. Also to the gaffer who gave me the opportunity to play for the club and has been brilliant with me.
He added: "Been a disappointing end to the season but just want to thank everyone for your support all year round, week in, week out."
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West Ham have time to make appointment
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Many of West Ham first team squad will jetting off on their summer holidays as you read this. Historically Premier League players have enjoyed four weeks holiday after the season ends returning to pre-season training in late June or the first week in July.
This year we have the added complication of the possibility of qualifying for Europa through the Fair Play route. Should we qualify our first scheduled game would be on 2nd July.
Yesterday when we asked a source close the club when the players might report back to training were told "Training will depend on if we are in (Europa) and when the new manager wants them in"
Whether we qualify for Europa or not, the board have the luxury of a few weeks before the need to appoint a new manager becomes urgent. Many believe it is far better to wait and appoint the right man rather then rush into these things.
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Hammers back to drawing board on boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
When the official site declared yesterday "the club is starting its search " for a new manager, that's exactly what it meant.
Rumours that Seville manager Unai Emery and Jurgen Klopp could be on their way are exactly that – rumours for which we could get no confirmation inside the club today.
A source said: "It seems that Rafa Benitez is getting the Real Madrid job and we had a lot stacked on that so it's back to the drawing board.
"Emery is very much a 'coming' manager and we would have to be interested whilst the word from Klopp's camp is that he won't make his mind up on his future until next month. That is honestly where it stands on both.
"We have never been in a desperate rush and believe we have until July to get this sorted as we are absolutely certain we will get a top class manager.
"Both of those you mention are on the list along with several others but we are now aggressively addressing the issue."
None of that may necessarily be great news for Slaven Bilic whom we were told is no better than a three or four to one shot.
We were told: "He's another on the list but the bookies have it well wrong at odds on. I think three or four to one would be more realistic."
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Ancelotti & McLaren sacked
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Carlo Ancelotti has been sacked as manager of Real Madrid after two seasons in charge of the Spanish club. Club president Florentino Perez told a news conference it had "not been an easy decision" before thanking Ancelotti and adding that a new manager would be appointed "in the coming week".
Two days ago Carlo Ancelotti who has also seen as a possible replacement for Sam Allardyce by some said he will take a year off from management if he was sacked.
Another West Ham managerial target Rafa Benitez is the odds on favourite for the Madrid role, while German newspaper Bild claims another yet West Ham managerial target, Jurgen Klopp, who will step down as Borussia Dortmund manager at the end of the season, will take a six month sabbatical from football.
Finally Derby County have terminated the contract of Steve McClaren linked by some papers to West Ham job.
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Klopp still in Irons frame
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that he is taking his time to decide on his future.
Speculation has been flying around that the German is heading back into management at any one of any number of clubs.
West Ham have approached the 47 year through middle men and have not been turned down but ClaretandHugh's was told: "He made it clear he will make his mind up in June. He appears to be sticking to that."
Some media reports in Germany claim he will take six months off although Klopp himself has only partly validated that.
He said regarding his future: "I am a football coach. I want to work for a while, but at the moment it is difficult."
He has been linked with Real Madrid – where it now seems Rafa Benitez may be headed – West Ham, Liverpool and Manchester City.
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Brum Keeper linked with Irons
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Birmingham Keeper Darren Randolph tells Blues he will be leaving as a free agent in the summer after opting against signing a new contract. After months of negotiations the Irish goalkeeper has opted not to sign the new contract the Blues offered.
As a result he becomes a free agent and is available to sign for another club. It is expected he will join a Premier League outfit, with West Ham thought to be interested according to the Birmingham Mail.
Randolph moved to Birmingham from Motherwell in the summer of 2013 and has made 92 appearances. He ended the season by keeping three consecutive clean sheets and wasn't beaten for the final five hours of his Birmingham career.
Jussi Jääskeläinen's contract runs out at the end of the May and West Ham are desperate to find backup and competition for Adrian.
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WHUFC.com
Evening Standard correspondent Ken Dyer has been covering West Ham United over land and sea for more than 40 years. He has also spent the last four seasons ghost-writing Sam Allardyce's column in London's daily newspaper...
Quite frankly Sunday's announcement that the Club will not be renewing Sam Allardyce's contract did not come as a great surprise considering all of the speculation over the past few weeks. From a purely personal perspective I'm a bit sad as I've ghost written his weekly column for the Evening Standard for the past four years and have built up a relationship and a friendship with him.
Looking back at his time at the Club, I think he's done everything asked of him and has brought the club out from what was a very low point to a period of stability. He took them out of the Championship and in to the Premier League at the first attempt, which is no mean feat. He gave the fans a marvellous time at Wembley and some other great wins, most notably against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Liverpool.
It's just a shame that during the second half of the season it fell away, largely due to injuries to key players, especially the strikers.
Overall, he gave us a real spine - West Ham over many years have had a reputation for playing some good football but maybe being a bit flaky and easy to beat at times. He changed that and made us a resilient team.
He established us a mid-table Premier League Club and it is a terrific achievement in such a short period of time. I think that will be his legacy.
I'm sure in the fullness of time he'll get back into the game. I think he'll now take a well-earned break and I wish him all the best.
I watched Sam's post-match interviews and he talked with dignity and there doesn't seem to be any hard feelings between him and the Club, which is good to see. I think as he said it's probably right time for both parties – the Club and him - to move on.
David Sullivan and David Gold have now started their hunt for a new manager and I think they need someone to take Sam's legacy forward. The number one priority is to stay in the Premier League next season and I think it's important we don't get too ahead of ourselves. In future years we can set our sights much higher but next year it's all about staying in the Premier League.
In terms of style of play we will be looking for, I think the fans were frustrated in the early days of Sam's time that we played a little too direct and the new manager has to recognise that and appreciate the history and tradition of the club.
They just need to keep the continuity and stability and potentially deal with the added challenge of starting the season early due to Europa League qualification.
It is a big challenge but an exciting one for the right man.
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Former Player Blog - Tony Cottee
WHUFC.com
Tony Cottee scored 146 goals in 336 appearances over two spells with West Ham United and was part of the Hammers side which finished in a record-high third place in Division One in 1985/86...
I would like to start by wishing Sam Allardyce all the best for the future after four years in charge of my Club, West Ham United.
I know Sam and am good friends with his no2 Neil McDonald from our time playing together at Everton. He, as well as Sam's other backroom staff, will also leave the Club and I wish them all the best too. Teddy Sheringham has already been appointed as Stevenage manager and I am sure Macca, Ian Hendon and Bobby Mimms will not be out of work for long.
Concentrating on the future, if the Board appoint the right man to succeed Sam and the new manager takes the Club to the next level, then it will prove to be the right decision not to renew his contract this summer.
Some supporters have complained about the style of football we have played under Sam and I have seen the Board's statement indicating that the new manager must be aware of the Club's traditions and the West Ham Way.
I think you have to get the balance right. We all want to play attractive, attacking football, but that is no good if we end up losing 5-4 every week and getting relegated. The key to it is getting the balance between style and substance.
I think Sam did a job up to a point and took the Club as far as he could in that regard. We knew what we were getting when Sam was appointed, so there have been no surprises.
There have been times when we have played some brilliant football and pulled off some outstanding wins, but there have also been times when we have not caught the eye and have gone through difficult spells of performances and results – take this season as an example!
Whoever is appointed to take over as manager needs to get that balance right as quickly as possible.
For me, Slaven Bilic is the number one choice to become West Ham United's new manager. When you look at his credentials, he has enjoyed success at both domestic and international level, was a fantastic player, is a top guy and also has a strong connection with the Club.
I think it is important, if possible, for a manager to have a connection with a club, whether that be as a former player or coach, and Slaven was a very good player for West Ham. I would love to see Slaven Bilic get the job, as he has proved himself with Croatia and Besiktas and I believe he is available.
I have seen other names be mentioned, like Jurgen Klopp and Eddie Howe, and it is very important that the Club makes the right decision at this important time.
The Board have appointed managers before, both at West Ham and before that at Birmingham City, and have a lot of experience in this area, so I am confident they will do their homework and make the right decision.
I understand that we will likely start the season early because of the Europa League, so it is also important that any decision is made as quickly as possible so that the new manager can be fully prepared for that challenge.
All of us West Ham fans certainly have an interesting summer ahead!
Come on you Irons!
TC
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West Ham keeping tabs on Rodgers as top targets fall
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are keeping a close eye on the developing situation at Liverpool with view to manager Brendan Rodgers' situation.
The Irishman was panned by Reds fans yesterday following the 6-1 thrashing at Stoke - their heaviest defeat in Premier League history - since when many have been calling for Rodgers' head.
In charge at Anfield for three years, the 42-year-old was close to clinching Liverpool's first title since the 1980s last year. However that has been sandwiched by two very ordinary seasons, leading to the current calls for his immediate replacement.
West Ham's hunt for a successor to Sam Allardyce has suffered two major blows in the past few hours, with leading candidates Carlo Ancelotti and Jurgen Klopp both (indirectly) ruling themselves out of the running.
Interest in Napoli boss Rafa Benitez remains extremely high, although he continues to be linked with Ancelotti's post at Real Madrid, which has just become available at time of writing.
And whilst Slaven Bilic is understood to have given West Ham's advances his tacit approval, the club are still keeping their options open hence the fresh interest in Rodgers.
A former defender who spent the bulk of his career representing clubs in the lower leagues, Rodgers cut his managerial teeth at Stamford Bridge as reserve team manager learning from the likes of Felipe Scolari and Jose Mourinho.
His first major appointment came in 2008, when he took control of Watford. Having led the Hornets to a 13th-place Championship finish, he returned to former club Reading the following season - a marriage destined for failure, as he left the Majedski just six months later by mutual consent.
In July 2010 Championship-side Swansea came calling and within 12 months he had repaid their faith by leading them to the Premier League via a Wembley play-off win against former club Reading (4-2).
Having secured a second season in the top flight, he joined current club Liverpool in June 2012. An initial three-year contract was superseded by a new four-year deal last season, tying him to the club until summer 2018.
* In other news tonight, former England boss Steve McClaren has been fired by Derby County after failing to lead them to the Championship play-offs. The 54-year-old has also been linked to the vacancy at West Ham.
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Klopp to take six-months off
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Jurgen Klopp is set to disappoint a string of clubs across Europe - by taking a six-month sabbatical at the start of next season.
The 47-year-old is one of the most highly-sought after managers in the game today having agreed to leave Dortmund, with whom he has spent the last seven years.
However highly-regarded German sports agency Bild revealed this afternoon that Klopp will reject all offers of a new management role in order to recharge his batteries, with view to returning to the game in 2016.
When asked to comment on his future, Klopp said: "I am a football coach. I want to work for a while, but at the moment it is difficult."
And with view to taking a role in Spain, where he has been linked with Real Madrid, he added: "I can speak almost every German dialect, so I can learn Spanish - if I have to."
In addition to Real Madrid, Klopp has been linked with the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and West Ham in reent weeks.
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Who's in the frame for the West Ham job?
By Jamie Casey
Last Updated: 25/05/15 6:12pm
SSN
Following confirmation of Sam Allardyce's departure as West Ham manager, Sky Bet look at the most likely candidates to succeed him.
Slaven Bilic – 1/2
Having made 48 appearances for the club between 1996 and 1997, Slaven Bilic appears to be a popular choice among the West Ham support. The former Croatia manager – who is stepping down from his role as Besiktas manager – is also popular among Sky Bet's punters, with Bilic attracting by far the biggest number of stakes, even doubling the figure of the second most backed candidate – Rafa Benitez (20/1).
Unai Emery - 7/2
Sevilla boss Unai Emery
Having been linked with the posts at Real Madrid and AC Milan, Unai Emery is a candidate West Ham fans should not turn their noses up at. The Sevilla boss will bid to land back-to-back Europa League titles with the Spanish side on Wednesday, and has guided the club to two consecutive fifth-place finishes in La Liga. With Milan priced at 15/8 to be Carlo Ancelotti's next job and Rafa Benitez 1/4 to replace the Italian at Madrid, West Ham could well be the most attractive proposition for Emery this summer.
David Moyes – 6/1
Real Sociadad boss David Moyes
Bearing in mind the job David Moyes did in his reign at Everton, appointing the Scotsman could prove a shrewd move from the West Ham hierarchy. Moyes signed an 18-month contract with Real Sociadad last November, steering them from 15th in the table to a 12th-place finish. Adequate, if unspectacular, it is not yet known if Moyes will see out his deal, but West Ham appears to be his best option for a route back into the English top flight, with Newcastle 14/1 to appoint him.
Michael Laudrup – 8/1
Lekhwiya boss Michael Laudrup
Since leaving Swansea in February of last year, Michael Laudrup has resisted a handful of chances to return to English football, preferring to honour his contract at Qatar side Lekhwiya instead. He has been busy guiding Lekhwiya to the Qatar Stars League and Crown Prince Cup, but his contract runs out next month, paving the way for a return to the Premier League. The Dane has distanced himself from mid-table opportunities, but it is not clear how inviting he finds the positions at West Ham (8/1) and Newcastle (8/1).
The outsiders
Former Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo
Roberto Di Matteo, who is expected to be sacked by Schalke following their sixth-place finish in the Bundesliga, is next in the pecking order at 12/1. Under-fire Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is the same price as Di Matteo, with Jurgen Klopp rated 5/4 to be the next manager in the door at Anfield. Steve McClaren is a 16/1 shout, while a return for Harry Redknapp is 20/1. Ancelotti has also been linked with the Hammers' post, but it's an unlikely rumour at 25/1.
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West Ham have taken a gamble by not renewing Sam Allardyce's contract, says Paul Merson
Last Updated: 25/05/15 2:11pm
SSN
West Ham have risked their Premier League status next season by not renewing Sam Allardyce's contract, according to Paul Merson.
Merson believes Allardyce had all the qualities needed to ensure West Ham would go to the Olympic Stadium as a Premier League outfit.
Allardyce was informed of his departure on Friday which was publicly confirmed moments after his side's defeat to Newcastle on the final day of the season.
The style of football was a point of contention with the supporters at Upton Park but Niall Quinn alongside Merson struggled to understand what the West Ham 'way' is.
"I don't know. What is the West Ham way? We are talking 1960s when they had a really good team," he said.
"It's a big gamble. One thing you are assured of with Sam Allardyce is you get a top manager. They won't get relegated if he was manager next season. They are not a shoo-in to stay up next season."
Quinn added: "I saw them right up until Christmas when they were in fourth and they were still giving out about him.
"He doesn't fit into the West Ham way - what are they wishing for as a football club?"
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Roeder backs Bilic as good fit
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Football - West Ham United, Upton Park, London - 14/6/01 New West Ham Manager Glenn Roeder Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Richard Heathcote Digital
Former manager Glen Roeder insists Bilic will be able to handle the pressure at West Ham – because he has already dealt with the difficulties of Turkish football.
"He's as good a fit as anyone else," Roeder told the Talksport Sports Breakfast show. "It's always a gamble getting a new manager, you can only judge them on their past records.
"Slaven has done well with Crotia and at every club he's managed. Turkish football is a very difficult place to manage and he's come through that with Besiktas. He seems a tough guy."
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Hammers linked to Benfica winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Benfica's Ola John is the latest target being checked out by the Irons.
According to Foot Mercato John is expected to leave the club this season and is being courted by the Irons who are reprotedely very keen on the winger.
As reported earlier Sampdoria's Italian international striker Eder is another target for the club where the signing policy is being solely directed by recruitment director to the board Tony Henry.
With the likes of Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole on their way out of Upton Park, the Hammers will free up wages although no fee for the left sided player has yet been agreed.
John is tied to Benfica until 2017 would cost around £9 million.
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Cottee: "Let me be your adviser Daves"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Tony Cottee has mounted a cheeky job application to become a football adviser at West Ham.
The former striker – whilst claiming the board have taken a huge gamble in getting rid of Sam Allardyce – then makes it clear he's the bloke to help them sort the future!
Speaking in his London 24.com column he says: "It's a huge gamble by the board going into what is one of the most important seasons in the club's history as we get ready for the Olympic Stadium."
He backs Slaven Bilic as Allardyce's replacement and says: " I know Bilic left us to join Everton. I am not going to criticise him for that as I did exactly the same thing.
"But Bilic has done superbly with Croatia in the World Cup, has managed in the Champions League and in some very volatile leagues, so that is why I would go for him."
Then comes the job application as Cottee declares:" One thing I would say is that I find it hard to believe that any board can go forward without someone who has played the game at a high level to advise them.
"I am always available, I have a huge passion for the club, but my phone never seems to ring.
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REPORT: Irons £8 million striker bid
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are this afternoon reported to be weighing up a bid for Sampdoria's Italian international striker Eder.
He has scored nine goals and provided four assists and scored for the national side on his international debut and La Gazzetta dello Sport report that the Biscione have valued the 28-year-old at around €10 million.
The newspaper says the Irons have offered €8m for the Brazilian-born attacker.
However, inter Milan are also keen nd my be ready to get involved in an auction for the striker.
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Cressie: 'Thanks gaffer'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Aaron Cresswell has signed off for the summer with a word on behalf of departed boss Sam Allardyce.
The former Ipswich left back who became Hammer of the Year in his debut season has expressed his thanks to the former manager.
Cresswell tweeted: "Looking forward to next season. Thanks again for an unforgettable season. Also to the gaffer who gave me the opportunity to play for the club and has been brilliant with me.
He added: "Been a disappointing end to the season but just want to thank everyone for your support all year round, week in, week out."
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West Ham have time to make appointment
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Many of West Ham first team squad will jetting off on their summer holidays as you read this. Historically Premier League players have enjoyed four weeks holiday after the season ends returning to pre-season training in late June or the first week in July.
This year we have the added complication of the possibility of qualifying for Europa through the Fair Play route. Should we qualify our first scheduled game would be on 2nd July.
Yesterday when we asked a source close the club when the players might report back to training were told "Training will depend on if we are in (Europa) and when the new manager wants them in"
Whether we qualify for Europa or not, the board have the luxury of a few weeks before the need to appoint a new manager becomes urgent. Many believe it is far better to wait and appoint the right man rather then rush into these things.
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Hammers back to drawing board on boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
When the official site declared yesterday "the club is starting its search " for a new manager, that's exactly what it meant.
Rumours that Seville manager Unai Emery and Jurgen Klopp could be on their way are exactly that – rumours for which we could get no confirmation inside the club today.
A source said: "It seems that Rafa Benitez is getting the Real Madrid job and we had a lot stacked on that so it's back to the drawing board.
"Emery is very much a 'coming' manager and we would have to be interested whilst the word from Klopp's camp is that he won't make his mind up on his future until next month. That is honestly where it stands on both.
"We have never been in a desperate rush and believe we have until July to get this sorted as we are absolutely certain we will get a top class manager.
"Both of those you mention are on the list along with several others but we are now aggressively addressing the issue."
None of that may necessarily be great news for Slaven Bilic whom we were told is no better than a three or four to one shot.
We were told: "He's another on the list but the bookies have it well wrong at odds on. I think three or four to one would be more realistic."
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Ancelotti & McLaren sacked
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Carlo Ancelotti has been sacked as manager of Real Madrid after two seasons in charge of the Spanish club. Club president Florentino Perez told a news conference it had "not been an easy decision" before thanking Ancelotti and adding that a new manager would be appointed "in the coming week".
Two days ago Carlo Ancelotti who has also seen as a possible replacement for Sam Allardyce by some said he will take a year off from management if he was sacked.
Another West Ham managerial target Rafa Benitez is the odds on favourite for the Madrid role, while German newspaper Bild claims another yet West Ham managerial target, Jurgen Klopp, who will step down as Borussia Dortmund manager at the end of the season, will take a six month sabbatical from football.
Finally Derby County have terminated the contract of Steve McClaren linked by some papers to West Ham job.
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Klopp still in Irons frame
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that he is taking his time to decide on his future.
Speculation has been flying around that the German is heading back into management at any one of any number of clubs.
West Ham have approached the 47 year through middle men and have not been turned down but ClaretandHugh's was told: "He made it clear he will make his mind up in June. He appears to be sticking to that."
Some media reports in Germany claim he will take six months off although Klopp himself has only partly validated that.
He said regarding his future: "I am a football coach. I want to work for a while, but at the moment it is difficult."
He has been linked with Real Madrid – where it now seems Rafa Benitez may be headed – West Ham, Liverpool and Manchester City.
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Brum Keeper linked with Irons
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Birmingham Keeper Darren Randolph tells Blues he will be leaving as a free agent in the summer after opting against signing a new contract. After months of negotiations the Irish goalkeeper has opted not to sign the new contract the Blues offered.
As a result he becomes a free agent and is available to sign for another club. It is expected he will join a Premier League outfit, with West Ham thought to be interested according to the Birmingham Mail.
Randolph moved to Birmingham from Motherwell in the summer of 2013 and has made 92 appearances. He ended the season by keeping three consecutive clean sheets and wasn't beaten for the final five hours of his Birmingham career.
Jussi Jääskeläinen's contract runs out at the end of the May and West Ham are desperate to find backup and competition for Adrian.
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Monday, May 25
Daily WHUFC News - 25th May 2015
Newcastle United 2-0 West Ham United
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's 2014/15 Barclays Premier League campaign ended in defeat
on Sunday, as Newcastle United preserved their top-flight status with a 2-0
success at St James' Park. Moussa Sissoko broke the deadlock in the 54th
minute with a powerful downward header, before Jonas Gutierrez set the seal
on the Geordies' survival in the latter stages with a pinpoint low drive.
Stewart Downing had earlier been denied by Tim Krul, while Kevin Nolan fired
wide from the edge of the box against his old side, but this was well and
truly Newcastle's day. Not that the St James' Park crowd needed any stoking
up, they were almost celebrating the perfect start. Inside 60 seconds,
Emmanuel Riviere pounced on the loose ball from a right-wing cross, but
slashed his effort across the face of goal. On their big day, the hosts were
in no mood to sit back. In fact, for a game of this import, it was an
unusually open beginning. West Ham were giving as good as they got and might
have had an early spot kick. Enner Valencia cushioned Carl Jenkinson's cross
and though he fell to earth under Mike Williamson's challenge, Martin
Atkinson was unmoved. With six minutes on the clock, Riviere had another
dig, this time an acrobatic effort from Daryl Janmaat's centre. The
outcome, however, was much the same, with his volley sailing comfortably
wide of Adrian's near post. Reece Burke then got in the way of Gutierrez's
drive from the edge of the box, before Janmaat fired the rebound wide. But
it was West Ham who fashioned arguably the best chance of the half. Aaron
Cresswell slid it firmly into Stewart Downing's path in the inside left
channel and though the No11 tried to loft it over the advancing Tim Krul, he
rather scuffed it and the 'keeper smothered. As the half ticked on, the pace
inevitably let up. Newcastle were doing nothing of the sort. Jack Colback
swung in a deep cross from the left and Janmaat, arriving late at the far
post, should have done a whole lot better than the header he sent sailing
high and wide. Into first-half stoppage time it went and Janmaat set off on
a purposeful run towards goal but failed to hit the target again, dragging
his strike past Adrian's left-hand upright.
Newcastle twice went close in the opening moments of the second half.
Williamson's looping header from a Colback corner drifted past the far post,
but it was Riviere was passed up the golden opportunity. Janmaat skipped
past Cresswell and squared for the Frenchman, who, with only Adrian to beat,
made the meekest of connections and the chance went begging. But Sissoko
soon spared his teammate's blushes. Gutierrez's left-wing cross was an
inviting one and Sissoko rose above both Reid and Cresswell to power a
downward header beyond Adrian.
In response, Sam Allardyce withdrew Valencia and brought on Morgan
Amalfitano in his stead, but West Ham were struggling to carve out clear
chances. Cole met Jenkinson's cross from the right but nodded well over
Krul's crossbar. Skipper Nolan could have dented his former employer's
survival hopes. Cole's lay-off was perfect and Nolan's connection was good
enough, but while Krul scampered across his goal, the ball trickled beyond
the far post. The hosts, meanwhile, had a gilt-edged chance to settle it
late on. West Ham made a meal of a set piece and when Vurnon Anita robbed
Cresswell his path to Adrian's goal was unimpeded. He unselfishly if
unwisely tried to square it and Adrian was able to gather. The reprieve,
however, was short lived, as Gutierrez drove a low shot into the bottom
corner of Adrian's goal to spark wild celebrations among the Geordie
faithful. For the Hammers, defeat coupled with Crystal Palace's win over
Swansea, means they finish the season in 12th spot.
Newcastle United: Krul, Janmaat, Coloccini (c), Williamson, Dummett, Anita,
Colback, Gutierrez, Sissoko, Riviere, Cisse
Subs: Woodman, Perez, Ameobi, Cabella, R.Taylor, De Jong, Gouffran
Goals: Sissoko 54, Gutierrez 85
Booked: Sissoko, Gutierrez
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson, Burke (Tomkins 69), Reid, Cresswell,
Song, Nolan (c), Kouyate (Lee 77), Downing, Valencia (Amalfitano 62), Cole
Subs: Jaaskelainen, O'Brien, Tomkins, Jarvis, Nene
Booked: Amalfitano
Referee: Martin Atkinson
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Reid disappointed with closing defeat
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid admitted Sunday's final game defeat at Newcastle United was a
continuation of West Ham United's recent poor run. After sitting inside the
Barclays Premier League's top four at Christmas, the Hammers have dropped
down the table over the second half of the season, much to the
disappointment of Reid and his teammates. He says ending twelfth will leave
a sour taste in the mouth over the summer, but insists the east Londoners
will return stronger next term. "The last twelve-odd games have been poor
from our point of view and we'll go off on holiday really disappointed,"
said the No2. "It just hasn't been good enough in the latter part of the
season. It's something that we need to correct for when we come back in
after the summer and get back to what it was before Christmas time. "We
started the campaign really well. We've always been safe throughout the
season, but it's just unfortunate that we couldn't push on in the second
half of the season. We just didn't hit the form that we had before
Christmas."
Sunday's 2-0 defeat on Tyneside also marked the end of manager Sam
Allardyce's four years in charge and Reid is grateful for the chance given
to him by the 60-year-old "As players we've always backed him," he
explained. "I've worked with him professionally for four years and he's been
brilliant for me and brilliant for the Club. "He brought the Club up from
the Championship and has been in the Premier League for three years so
it'll be sad to see him go but that's the decision. "Thank you to him, all
he has done has been brilliant and now we all look forward to a new coach
and new season."
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Big Sam says his goodbyes
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has said his goodbyes to West Ham United after the Club
announced that the manager's contract will not be renewed this summer. Big
Sam leaves the Boleyn Ground after four years in charge during which he led
the Hammers to promotion and stabilised the Club in the Barclays Premier
League. On Sunday, his final game in charge saw the Hammers slump to a 2-0
defeat at Newcastle United and slip to a finishing position of 12th in the
table.
After the final whistle, and following discussions between the two parties
on Friday, the Club confirmed that the manager will not return next season
and Big Sam said goodbye to his backroom staff and players, shaking each by
the hand before leaving St James' Park.
Before doing so, he spoke to West Ham TV one final time to assess his four
seasons in east London.
"I've had a wonderful time," Big Sam began. "I think that when the challenge
got laid down I wondered whether coming into a club which had been relegated
was the right thing to do.
"I basically saw what a mess it was, but I'd signed a contract and committed
to the job. I got on with it and the journey, from after the first six
months – which was a real hard slog and graft and wasn't looking that clever
or feeling that comfortable – has only been really that small blip we had
last season with all the injuries that put us down in the relegation zone.
"Everything else has been great progress and I've enjoyed working at the
Club and the owners. I've taken great pride in working with a Club of this
size and the plan of re-establishing it back in the Premier League is what
I've done and what the owners asked me to achieve.
"I built a really good squad in the end. Altogether we've worked extremely
hard to build that squad and I've managed that squad to get into the
position we're in now and it's somebody else's turn.
"It's the right time for both of us. I look forward to the break and not
having to commit myself like you have to commit in this job. At the end of
the day, family is important and you have to sacrifice your family when
you're in this job.
"Time is right for the Club to move on and me to move on and for me to
recharge and refocus on whatever might be in a few months' time."
The manager's reign has been a rollercoaster, with promotion secured via the
Play-Offs, a comfortable tenth-place finish in the first season back in the
Premier League, a relegation battle last term followed by a season of two
halves in 2014/15.
Big Sam's tenure has attracted huge debate among West Ham supporters, so
what would the outgoing manager's message to those fans be on his departure
from E13?
"I think, like at any football club, there is always somebody who is
discontented with what you are doing and I've said before that the club in
itself, in terms of its support, is exceptionally good," he said.
"When things are not going well, they like to make themselves heard and you
accept that as a manager. I think, if you look back at what we've done and
how far we've come, you can't be too dissatisfied.
"You've got to look at the facts and look at what we've built with what
we've had to spend and how hard we've worked – and I'm not just talking
about me, my staff and the players, but the relationship with the owners in
terms of how to get that money for recruitment comes from them and their
support.
"I think we've done great. We've made mistakes but I don't think we've made
too many and, in the end, you've got a younger squad for someone else to
manage which has learnt an awful lot in the last 12 games, particularly
those who were in their first season in the Premier League. Up to Christmas,
they might have been thinking it wasn't as hard as they thought, but they
certainly know it's hard now.
"That experience of the downside will form the basis for the next manager
and hopefully make them better and more consistent for whoever is in charge
next year."
Sunday's game was a microcosm of West Ham's season, starting promisingly
before withering away in disappointing fashion late on.
Goals from Moussa Sissoko and Jonas Gutierrez saw Newcastle stay up and St
James' Park erupt with relief, but for everyone associated with the Hammers,
the feeling was one of wondering what might have been.
So, how did Big Sam assess a campaign very much of two halves?
"We can't finish and we can't score and that's become ever more apparent in
the last few weeks," said Big Sam. "Our build-up is fine, but the depth of
our quality of finishing is just not there and that's an area for someone
else now.
"Looking at the overall season, to a certain degree we have overcome the
defensive problems, but on the front line we have not had Diafra Sakho.
Without him, we've found goals hard to come by.
"Because Stewart hasn't kicked on, because Kevin Nolan hasn't done what he
normally does and because Enner Valencia hasn't scored enough goals, that
has been the biggest effect on our results.
"I've had no complaints about the way we have played until the second half
on Sunday, which I thought was really poor. I thought it was poor the way we
went about our task when we had Newcastle very nervous in the first half. We
let them off the hook and that was really disappointing.
"It's for somebody else to take the reins now and take the Club forward."
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West Ham: Sam Allardyce says decision to leave 'was mutual'
By Phil McNulty
Chief football writer
BBC.co.uk
Sam Allardyce has revealed he planned to leave West Ham United even if the
club had offered to renew his contract. Allardyce's departure was announced
within minutes of the end of West Ham's 2-0 loss at Newcastle United that
saw The Magpies stay in the Premier League.
The 60-year-old has spent four years at West Ham, but the Hammers have
decided not to renew his deal this summer. Allardyce said: "I didn't want to
stay. I suppose you could say it was mutual if they didn't want me to stay
either."
West Ham will now begin the search for a successor, although they look
likely to miss out on top target Rafael Benitez, as the Napoli boss is
linked with Real Madrid. "I thought it was the right time to leave - and
probably the right time for me and the club," added ex-Bolton and Newcastle
boss Allardyce, who now plans to take an extended break from the game.
Allardyce learned of his fate on Friday, but the news was made public on
Sunday afternoon at the conclusion of the 2014-15 Premier League season. In
a statement, joint chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said: "We would
like to start by thanking Sam Allardyce for his valuable work since arriving
at the Boleyn Ground four years ago.
Allardyce's managerial career
Blackpool (1994-96): 102 games, 44 wins, 35 defeats, 23 draws. Lost in
Division Two play-offs to Bradford
Notts County (1997-99): 145 games, 56 wins, 50 defeats, 39 draws. Relegated
to Division Three but then won the title by 19 points
Bolton (1999-2007): 371 games, 153 wins, 114 defeats, 104 draws. Promoted to
the Premier League and finished sixth
Newcastle (2007-08): 24 games, eight wins, 10 defeats, six draws
Blackburn (2008-10): 90 games, 32 wins, 34 defeats, 24 draws
West Ham (2011-15): 181 games, 68 wins, 67 defeats, 46 draws. Won promotion
to the Premier League
"He leaves the club in a considerably better state than when he arrived and,
for that, the board are truly grateful."
Allardyce said: "I knew it was coming and I have no problems with it. We had
the discussion and I wasn't going to sign a new contract so it was probably
time to move on. "It's done and dusted and we both move on. West Ham have a
big job appointing a new manager moving forward and I have the job of seeing
my family for a change. This job is 24/7 and it's time for me to give the
family a bit more time."
Sullivan and Gold want a new manager to oversee the club's final season at
their current home before a move to the Olympic Stadium for the 2016-17
campaign.
West Ham finishing positions under Allardyce
Finishing positions 2011-12: 3rd Championship (Promoted via play-offs);
2012-13: 10th (of 20) Premier League; 2013-14: 13th; 2014-15: 12th
Record by competition
Premier League - Games: 114; W: 35; D: 28; L: 51; Win%: 31
Championship - Games: 49; W: 27; D: 14; L: 8; Win%: 55
League Cup - Games: 10; W: 5; D: 1; L: 4; Win%: 50
FA Cup - Games: 8; W: 1; D: 3; L: 4; Win%: 13
All - Games: 181; W: 68; D: 46; L: 67; Win%: 38 (Stats: Opta)
The statement was released just minutes after West Ham lost their final
Premier League game of the season 2-0 at Newcastle - a result which ensured
their opponents avoided relegation and meant the Hammers finished 12th.
Allardyce says he has no intention of making a quick return to football,
adding: "For me four years is a long time and I don't want to overstay my
welcome. You have to commit your whole life to being a Premier League
manager. "It's time to have that break. I'm looking to have a break,
recharge the batteries and when the batteries are recharged you are better
prepared to carry on doing the job at this level. "It's not just a job I'm
after, it's the right job. You can never say never but I can't see myself
being in charge of another football club at the start of next season."
West Ham United's supporters made it clear what they felt of the unloved
Allardyce as abuse rained down from the stands at St James' Park as they
lost to Newcastle United. And while it is true the 60-year-old is a
managerial taste that will never be acquired by some, Allardyce can rightly
be pleased with his four years at Upton Park. The brief from owners David
Sullivan and David Gold was to get The Hammers into the Premier League and
keep them there - two missions he accomplished comfortably. Allardyce, in
other words, has done a solid job at West Ham and it will take a lot to move
them even further forward. He may not have been a popular figure among the
fanbase - not that he seemed to care - but this is a manager who did what he
was asked to do. For that he deserves respect and credit.
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'West Ham way' target for new boss after Sam Allardyce exit
By Frank Keogh
BBC Sport
West Ham have set a list of criteria as they sift through a shortlist of
candidates to replace Sam Allardyce as manager of the Premier League club.
Allardyce, 60, will not be signing a new deal to remain Hammers boss. Owners
David Gold and David Sullivan want an ambitious boss to take the club to
"the next level" and win trophies. The candidate will be expected to
understand the club, its fans and culture, and can encourage the 'West Ham
way' of playing attacking football. Gold believes the Hammers, who finished
the season 12th, are almost certain to have qualified for the Europa League
via a Uefa Fair Play place.
What is the 'West Ham way'?
Generally thought by some West Ham fans to be a brand of attacking football
where the team goes for goals, such as when the club won the FA Cup three
times between 1965 and 1980 Critics question whether such a philosophy can
exist alongside a target of winning trophies, and bringing young players
through from the club's academy Based on the approach where defenders bring
the ball out from the back as typified by Bobby Moore, and later through the
likes of Alvin Martin and Rio Ferdinand. In his biography, former Manchester
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "I hope that before I die someone can
explain the 'West Ham way'. What is it? They last won a trophy in 1980, the
FA Cup."
Allardyce, after four years with the club in which he won promotion and
ensured Premier League stability but was criticised by some sections of the
fanbase for a supposedly negative approach, was told on Friday his contract
would not be renewed. West Ham are content with taking their time over
appointing a replacement, with the club preparing for their final season at
the Boleyn Ground before moving across East London to the Olympic Stadium in
time for the 2016-17 season. Gold and Sullivan themselves are leading the
hunt for Allardyce's replacement and have drawn up a list of candidates,
although one contender - former Liverpool manager and current Napoli boss
Rafael Benitez - is being strongly linked with a move to Spanish side Real
Madrid. The new boss is likely to oversee a European campaign starting in
July, with Gold saying the club is "99.9% certain" to have reached the
Europa League through the Fair Play criteria, which is expected to be
confirmed this week. Club sources say Gold and Sullivan are looking for a
manager who understands the culture surrounding West Ham, and will be
enthused by the stadium move. The successful candidate will also be expected
to promote the club's academy and give young players a chance to break
through into the first team.
Bookmakers' favourites for West Ham job
Slaven Bilic (Odds as of 23:00 BST, 24 May: 1-2. Age: 46) Wants the job and
has just left Turkish side Besiktas, but has no managerial experience in the
Premier League and would be a big risk. Former head coach of the Croatia
national team, was a popular player at Upton Park in the mid-1990s.
David Moyes (Odds: 4-1. Age: 51) Stock is higher following successful six
months with Real Sociedad after flopping at Manchester United. Did a
creditable job previously at Everton, although may fancy more time in Spain
before any return to the Premier League.
Unai Emery (Odds: 5-1. Age: 43) Sevilla head coach considered a hot
property, and has drawn comparisons with Jose Mourinho. Also linked with a
move to Read Madrid if Carlo Ancelotti is replaced.
Steve McClaren (Odds: 10-1. Age: 54) Former England manager would fit West
Ham owners' prototype of going for managers with top-flight experience.
McClaren's future at Derby County is unclear, although he could be courted
by Newcastle.
line
As players paid tribute to the departing manager, Allardyce said that
attacking options were likely to be a focus for his successor.
"We can't finish and we can't score and that's become ever more apparent in
the last few weeks," he told West Ham's official website.
"Our build-up is fine, but the depth of our quality of finishing is just not
there and that's an area for someone else now."
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West Ham to break the 100k barrier for the right man
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are preparing to push the boat out in order to land the right
manager to succeed the recently-departed Sam Allardyce.
60-year-old Allardyce ended his four-year association with the Hammers
moments after the final whistle had blown in the match against Newcastle at
St James' Park on Sunday afternoon - a game the hosts won 2-0.
And KUMB understands that the club are prepared to pay a figure well in
excess of top earner Andy Carroll's near-£5million salary in order to secure
the big-name signing required to lead the club into the Olympic Stadium
little more than a year from now.
Jurgen Klopp, Carlo Ancelotti and long-term target Rafa Benitez are three
names hovering near the top of the Board's wish list tonight and would
certainly command a salary close to that figure.
Whilst Benitez remains the favoured candidate of at least one Board member,
despite having expressed interest in the West Ham post he is believed to
favour a return to Real Madrid where he spent seven years as a player during
the 1970s and '80s.
Further along the chain, Benitez's opportunities of returning to the
Bernabeu rest upon Real's decision with regard to 55-year-old Ancelotti, who
is rumoured be facing the sack two years into a three year contract in
Spain. His future will be determined at a meeting later this week.
Should both Benitez and Ancelotti reject West Ham's overtures, Klopp remains
an unlikely yet tantalising prospect.
Although it was suggested last week that he had ruled himself out of the
running, it is now thought that may not be the case - even if the current
Dortmund boss' signature is being sought by a string of top clubs searching
for a new manager this summer.
Who'll fill the Boleyn hotseat next?
Meanwhile last week's odds-on favourite Slaven Bilic remains a further
option should none of the club's main targets accept the vacancy. Out of
contract at the end of the season, the 46-year-old is tempted by the
opportunity to manage in England.
As reported on KUMB last week, Marseille boss Marcelo Bielsa has also been
sounded out whilst Seville manager Unai Emery's name continued to be linked
with the post - although reports emerging from Italy on Sunday claimed he
has agreed to join Milan.
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Thanks Sam, say Sullivan and Gold
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 24th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham united's co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold have paid tribute
to Sam Allardyce, on the day that told him he was no longer wanted at West
Ham.
The 60-year-old's association with the club came to an abrupt end after four
years this afternoon when the club confirmed he would not be considered for
a new contract via their website.
And despite having wanted shot of him for several months, Sullivan and
partner Gold jointly released a statement praising his achievements.
"We would like to start by thanking Sam Allardyce for his valuable work
since arriving at the Boleyn Ground four years ago," they said. "He leaves
the Club in a considerably better state then when he arrived and, for that,
the Board are truly grateful.
"However, we have made the decision not to renew his contract, so we now
have the chance to appoint a new manager with a new philosophy to lead us
into two of the most exciting years in our great Club's history.
"Our target is to recruit a manager that will build a team capable of saying
a fitting farewell to the Boleyn Ground next year and do justice to the
outstanding surrounds we will call home from August 2016.
"We have already been impressed with the quality of candidates that have
expressed an interest in the role and fully expect to appoint a manager with
the credentials to take this Club on to new heights.
"From our point of view there isn't a more exciting job in the Premier
League at present."
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Irons couldn't say goodbye to Sam fast enough!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
In the end it couldn't have been quicker.
The statement had been prepared and was on the official site at precisely
4.50 – that's how badly the board wanted Sam Allardyce gone.
No end of season review…no special board meeting – the decision had been
made weeks back but even this morning ClaretandHugh received a phone call
telling us to say nothing about the fact that he'd be gone within seconds of
the whistle blowing in Newcastle.
We were told: "We need a result up there – do nothing that could impact on
the result but he'll be gone a soon as the game is done."
In fact it was all pretty well known by then but it was none the less pretty
embarrassing when the end finally came!
"Game lost 2-0 – the statement is up and you are no longer our manager."
It's been a long haul but behind the scenes the game has been up for a long
time. And the reasons he was sacked are exactly the same as those the fans
screaming for his departure have held.
The board are desperate to see the West Ham fans being entertained by the
type of football which they and many of us were brought up on. They knew it
wasn't going to happen under the former manager -how good does that sound?
But there was a much bigger reason for the decision to say goodbye to the
old bruiser from Dudley- and as quickly as possible: THE FANS.
Time and again in conversations with leading figures inside the club over
the past few months I was told: "He has not healed that relationship with
them and it is critical. The club is divided down the middle and it can't go
on. We've all had enough."
So the issue that has monopolised us for months and months is no more – it
all has something of a dream like quality about it.
FORMER MANAGER Sam Allardyce is no more – we have our club back at last and
now let's unite and put this dreadful last two years to bed once and for
all.
We all deserve tonight…and we all deserve a rest!
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Unai Emery is bookies second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
The announcement that West Ham will not be renewing Sam Allardyce's contract
has opened up the betting markets, all keen to make money guessing his
successor. No less than ten bookmakers are now running books on his
replacement.
Slaven Bilic remains the outright odds on favourite across all ten
bookmakers ranging from 1/5 to a more generous 5/6.
A new second favourite has emerged in the shape of Unai Emery being quoted
with odds as short as 5/2 by Sky Bet but as much as 7/1 by Betfair. David
Moyes remains as third favourite followed by Roberto Di Matteo as fourth
favourite.
43 year old Emery made his name as manager of Valencia, winning 49% of his
games in charge before a six-month stint as Spartak Moscow manager. He has
been back in Spain with Sevilla since January 2013, Emery won the Europa
League trophy last season and now has Sevilla in the final of the same
competition again this season. Sevilla finished in fifth place in the La
Liga table.
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Legend Parkes so glad Allardyce has gone!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham legend Phil Parkes is delighted that Sam Allardyce is gone! In a no
punches pulled exclusive interview with ClaretandHugh the brilliant former
keeper declared as we told him the news: "So it's official – thank God." And
he added: "I'm not surprised. I didn't watch the game today just as I have
tried to avoid watching for the past two or three months. I can't watch that
stuff and I have felt so sorry for our fans who have paid to do so. It's
been dreadful."
Parksey poured brutal scorn on every reason for keeping Allardyce declaring:
"They say he keeps teams up but had it not been for a good start we'd have
been in the same position as Newcastle today, or perhaps even worse."I've
never seen him as a safer pair of hands than many but I've seen him provide
come awful football. Some of it has been as bad as anything I've seen at
this club."
Never a lover of the Allardyce 'brand,' Phil finally lost it with him when
the cupped ear incident happened against Hull last season.
He said: "You don't do that to our fans who are the greatest around. He
never bought into the history of this amazing club or the passion of those
fantastic supporters and that was his biggest problem.""John Lyall would
have come out afterwards and apologised to them if a team of his had played
like that and said the opposition should have won as they deserved. John
understood the way West Ham managers behave. Sam didn't. "This has been a
long time coming and I'm glad the Sam era has gone, We deserve a quality
manager for our quality supporters and quality club. But I'll leave it to
the owners to find him.."
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Maiga to return pre season
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Maiga came on as a second half substitute for Metz's last game of the season
to complete his season long loan for the French outfit. Despite his
appearance on 56 minutes Metz lost their final game to Lille 4-1. Metz are
relegated from Ligue 1 which former Metz striker Diafra Sakho help them
achieve. In the 2013–14 season Sakho scored 20 goals in 36 appearances as
Metz won the Ligue 2 title. For his performances, Sakho was voted Ligue 2
Player of the Year for the 2013–14 season.
Maiga will now report back for training with West Ham in late June when the
pre season campaign begins unless a new loan deal can be found. Maiga signed
West Ham for a reported £4.7m from Sochaux scoring 6 goals for the Hammers
from 37 appearances.
Metz were thought to paying just £6,000 of Maiga £30,000 per week wages. He
has one year remaining on his West Ham contract worth around £1.5m in wages.
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United's 2014/15 Barclays Premier League campaign ended in defeat
on Sunday, as Newcastle United preserved their top-flight status with a 2-0
success at St James' Park. Moussa Sissoko broke the deadlock in the 54th
minute with a powerful downward header, before Jonas Gutierrez set the seal
on the Geordies' survival in the latter stages with a pinpoint low drive.
Stewart Downing had earlier been denied by Tim Krul, while Kevin Nolan fired
wide from the edge of the box against his old side, but this was well and
truly Newcastle's day. Not that the St James' Park crowd needed any stoking
up, they were almost celebrating the perfect start. Inside 60 seconds,
Emmanuel Riviere pounced on the loose ball from a right-wing cross, but
slashed his effort across the face of goal. On their big day, the hosts were
in no mood to sit back. In fact, for a game of this import, it was an
unusually open beginning. West Ham were giving as good as they got and might
have had an early spot kick. Enner Valencia cushioned Carl Jenkinson's cross
and though he fell to earth under Mike Williamson's challenge, Martin
Atkinson was unmoved. With six minutes on the clock, Riviere had another
dig, this time an acrobatic effort from Daryl Janmaat's centre. The
outcome, however, was much the same, with his volley sailing comfortably
wide of Adrian's near post. Reece Burke then got in the way of Gutierrez's
drive from the edge of the box, before Janmaat fired the rebound wide. But
it was West Ham who fashioned arguably the best chance of the half. Aaron
Cresswell slid it firmly into Stewart Downing's path in the inside left
channel and though the No11 tried to loft it over the advancing Tim Krul, he
rather scuffed it and the 'keeper smothered. As the half ticked on, the pace
inevitably let up. Newcastle were doing nothing of the sort. Jack Colback
swung in a deep cross from the left and Janmaat, arriving late at the far
post, should have done a whole lot better than the header he sent sailing
high and wide. Into first-half stoppage time it went and Janmaat set off on
a purposeful run towards goal but failed to hit the target again, dragging
his strike past Adrian's left-hand upright.
Newcastle twice went close in the opening moments of the second half.
Williamson's looping header from a Colback corner drifted past the far post,
but it was Riviere was passed up the golden opportunity. Janmaat skipped
past Cresswell and squared for the Frenchman, who, with only Adrian to beat,
made the meekest of connections and the chance went begging. But Sissoko
soon spared his teammate's blushes. Gutierrez's left-wing cross was an
inviting one and Sissoko rose above both Reid and Cresswell to power a
downward header beyond Adrian.
In response, Sam Allardyce withdrew Valencia and brought on Morgan
Amalfitano in his stead, but West Ham were struggling to carve out clear
chances. Cole met Jenkinson's cross from the right but nodded well over
Krul's crossbar. Skipper Nolan could have dented his former employer's
survival hopes. Cole's lay-off was perfect and Nolan's connection was good
enough, but while Krul scampered across his goal, the ball trickled beyond
the far post. The hosts, meanwhile, had a gilt-edged chance to settle it
late on. West Ham made a meal of a set piece and when Vurnon Anita robbed
Cresswell his path to Adrian's goal was unimpeded. He unselfishly if
unwisely tried to square it and Adrian was able to gather. The reprieve,
however, was short lived, as Gutierrez drove a low shot into the bottom
corner of Adrian's goal to spark wild celebrations among the Geordie
faithful. For the Hammers, defeat coupled with Crystal Palace's win over
Swansea, means they finish the season in 12th spot.
Newcastle United: Krul, Janmaat, Coloccini (c), Williamson, Dummett, Anita,
Colback, Gutierrez, Sissoko, Riviere, Cisse
Subs: Woodman, Perez, Ameobi, Cabella, R.Taylor, De Jong, Gouffran
Goals: Sissoko 54, Gutierrez 85
Booked: Sissoko, Gutierrez
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson, Burke (Tomkins 69), Reid, Cresswell,
Song, Nolan (c), Kouyate (Lee 77), Downing, Valencia (Amalfitano 62), Cole
Subs: Jaaskelainen, O'Brien, Tomkins, Jarvis, Nene
Booked: Amalfitano
Referee: Martin Atkinson
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid disappointed with closing defeat
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid admitted Sunday's final game defeat at Newcastle United was a
continuation of West Ham United's recent poor run. After sitting inside the
Barclays Premier League's top four at Christmas, the Hammers have dropped
down the table over the second half of the season, much to the
disappointment of Reid and his teammates. He says ending twelfth will leave
a sour taste in the mouth over the summer, but insists the east Londoners
will return stronger next term. "The last twelve-odd games have been poor
from our point of view and we'll go off on holiday really disappointed,"
said the No2. "It just hasn't been good enough in the latter part of the
season. It's something that we need to correct for when we come back in
after the summer and get back to what it was before Christmas time. "We
started the campaign really well. We've always been safe throughout the
season, but it's just unfortunate that we couldn't push on in the second
half of the season. We just didn't hit the form that we had before
Christmas."
Sunday's 2-0 defeat on Tyneside also marked the end of manager Sam
Allardyce's four years in charge and Reid is grateful for the chance given
to him by the 60-year-old "As players we've always backed him," he
explained. "I've worked with him professionally for four years and he's been
brilliant for me and brilliant for the Club. "He brought the Club up from
the Championship and has been in the Premier League for three years so
it'll be sad to see him go but that's the decision. "Thank you to him, all
he has done has been brilliant and now we all look forward to a new coach
and new season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam says his goodbyes
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has said his goodbyes to West Ham United after the Club
announced that the manager's contract will not be renewed this summer. Big
Sam leaves the Boleyn Ground after four years in charge during which he led
the Hammers to promotion and stabilised the Club in the Barclays Premier
League. On Sunday, his final game in charge saw the Hammers slump to a 2-0
defeat at Newcastle United and slip to a finishing position of 12th in the
table.
After the final whistle, and following discussions between the two parties
on Friday, the Club confirmed that the manager will not return next season
and Big Sam said goodbye to his backroom staff and players, shaking each by
the hand before leaving St James' Park.
Before doing so, he spoke to West Ham TV one final time to assess his four
seasons in east London.
"I've had a wonderful time," Big Sam began. "I think that when the challenge
got laid down I wondered whether coming into a club which had been relegated
was the right thing to do.
"I basically saw what a mess it was, but I'd signed a contract and committed
to the job. I got on with it and the journey, from after the first six
months – which was a real hard slog and graft and wasn't looking that clever
or feeling that comfortable – has only been really that small blip we had
last season with all the injuries that put us down in the relegation zone.
"Everything else has been great progress and I've enjoyed working at the
Club and the owners. I've taken great pride in working with a Club of this
size and the plan of re-establishing it back in the Premier League is what
I've done and what the owners asked me to achieve.
"I built a really good squad in the end. Altogether we've worked extremely
hard to build that squad and I've managed that squad to get into the
position we're in now and it's somebody else's turn.
"It's the right time for both of us. I look forward to the break and not
having to commit myself like you have to commit in this job. At the end of
the day, family is important and you have to sacrifice your family when
you're in this job.
"Time is right for the Club to move on and me to move on and for me to
recharge and refocus on whatever might be in a few months' time."
The manager's reign has been a rollercoaster, with promotion secured via the
Play-Offs, a comfortable tenth-place finish in the first season back in the
Premier League, a relegation battle last term followed by a season of two
halves in 2014/15.
Big Sam's tenure has attracted huge debate among West Ham supporters, so
what would the outgoing manager's message to those fans be on his departure
from E13?
"I think, like at any football club, there is always somebody who is
discontented with what you are doing and I've said before that the club in
itself, in terms of its support, is exceptionally good," he said.
"When things are not going well, they like to make themselves heard and you
accept that as a manager. I think, if you look back at what we've done and
how far we've come, you can't be too dissatisfied.
"You've got to look at the facts and look at what we've built with what
we've had to spend and how hard we've worked – and I'm not just talking
about me, my staff and the players, but the relationship with the owners in
terms of how to get that money for recruitment comes from them and their
support.
"I think we've done great. We've made mistakes but I don't think we've made
too many and, in the end, you've got a younger squad for someone else to
manage which has learnt an awful lot in the last 12 games, particularly
those who were in their first season in the Premier League. Up to Christmas,
they might have been thinking it wasn't as hard as they thought, but they
certainly know it's hard now.
"That experience of the downside will form the basis for the next manager
and hopefully make them better and more consistent for whoever is in charge
next year."
Sunday's game was a microcosm of West Ham's season, starting promisingly
before withering away in disappointing fashion late on.
Goals from Moussa Sissoko and Jonas Gutierrez saw Newcastle stay up and St
James' Park erupt with relief, but for everyone associated with the Hammers,
the feeling was one of wondering what might have been.
So, how did Big Sam assess a campaign very much of two halves?
"We can't finish and we can't score and that's become ever more apparent in
the last few weeks," said Big Sam. "Our build-up is fine, but the depth of
our quality of finishing is just not there and that's an area for someone
else now.
"Looking at the overall season, to a certain degree we have overcome the
defensive problems, but on the front line we have not had Diafra Sakho.
Without him, we've found goals hard to come by.
"Because Stewart hasn't kicked on, because Kevin Nolan hasn't done what he
normally does and because Enner Valencia hasn't scored enough goals, that
has been the biggest effect on our results.
"I've had no complaints about the way we have played until the second half
on Sunday, which I thought was really poor. I thought it was poor the way we
went about our task when we had Newcastle very nervous in the first half. We
let them off the hook and that was really disappointing.
"It's for somebody else to take the reins now and take the Club forward."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham: Sam Allardyce says decision to leave 'was mutual'
By Phil McNulty
Chief football writer
BBC.co.uk
Sam Allardyce has revealed he planned to leave West Ham United even if the
club had offered to renew his contract. Allardyce's departure was announced
within minutes of the end of West Ham's 2-0 loss at Newcastle United that
saw The Magpies stay in the Premier League.
The 60-year-old has spent four years at West Ham, but the Hammers have
decided not to renew his deal this summer. Allardyce said: "I didn't want to
stay. I suppose you could say it was mutual if they didn't want me to stay
either."
West Ham will now begin the search for a successor, although they look
likely to miss out on top target Rafael Benitez, as the Napoli boss is
linked with Real Madrid. "I thought it was the right time to leave - and
probably the right time for me and the club," added ex-Bolton and Newcastle
boss Allardyce, who now plans to take an extended break from the game.
Allardyce learned of his fate on Friday, but the news was made public on
Sunday afternoon at the conclusion of the 2014-15 Premier League season. In
a statement, joint chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said: "We would
like to start by thanking Sam Allardyce for his valuable work since arriving
at the Boleyn Ground four years ago.
Allardyce's managerial career
Blackpool (1994-96): 102 games, 44 wins, 35 defeats, 23 draws. Lost in
Division Two play-offs to Bradford
Notts County (1997-99): 145 games, 56 wins, 50 defeats, 39 draws. Relegated
to Division Three but then won the title by 19 points
Bolton (1999-2007): 371 games, 153 wins, 114 defeats, 104 draws. Promoted to
the Premier League and finished sixth
Newcastle (2007-08): 24 games, eight wins, 10 defeats, six draws
Blackburn (2008-10): 90 games, 32 wins, 34 defeats, 24 draws
West Ham (2011-15): 181 games, 68 wins, 67 defeats, 46 draws. Won promotion
to the Premier League
"He leaves the club in a considerably better state than when he arrived and,
for that, the board are truly grateful."
Allardyce said: "I knew it was coming and I have no problems with it. We had
the discussion and I wasn't going to sign a new contract so it was probably
time to move on. "It's done and dusted and we both move on. West Ham have a
big job appointing a new manager moving forward and I have the job of seeing
my family for a change. This job is 24/7 and it's time for me to give the
family a bit more time."
Sullivan and Gold want a new manager to oversee the club's final season at
their current home before a move to the Olympic Stadium for the 2016-17
campaign.
West Ham finishing positions under Allardyce
Finishing positions 2011-12: 3rd Championship (Promoted via play-offs);
2012-13: 10th (of 20) Premier League; 2013-14: 13th; 2014-15: 12th
Record by competition
Premier League - Games: 114; W: 35; D: 28; L: 51; Win%: 31
Championship - Games: 49; W: 27; D: 14; L: 8; Win%: 55
League Cup - Games: 10; W: 5; D: 1; L: 4; Win%: 50
FA Cup - Games: 8; W: 1; D: 3; L: 4; Win%: 13
All - Games: 181; W: 68; D: 46; L: 67; Win%: 38 (Stats: Opta)
The statement was released just minutes after West Ham lost their final
Premier League game of the season 2-0 at Newcastle - a result which ensured
their opponents avoided relegation and meant the Hammers finished 12th.
Allardyce says he has no intention of making a quick return to football,
adding: "For me four years is a long time and I don't want to overstay my
welcome. You have to commit your whole life to being a Premier League
manager. "It's time to have that break. I'm looking to have a break,
recharge the batteries and when the batteries are recharged you are better
prepared to carry on doing the job at this level. "It's not just a job I'm
after, it's the right job. You can never say never but I can't see myself
being in charge of another football club at the start of next season."
West Ham United's supporters made it clear what they felt of the unloved
Allardyce as abuse rained down from the stands at St James' Park as they
lost to Newcastle United. And while it is true the 60-year-old is a
managerial taste that will never be acquired by some, Allardyce can rightly
be pleased with his four years at Upton Park. The brief from owners David
Sullivan and David Gold was to get The Hammers into the Premier League and
keep them there - two missions he accomplished comfortably. Allardyce, in
other words, has done a solid job at West Ham and it will take a lot to move
them even further forward. He may not have been a popular figure among the
fanbase - not that he seemed to care - but this is a manager who did what he
was asked to do. For that he deserves respect and credit.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'West Ham way' target for new boss after Sam Allardyce exit
By Frank Keogh
BBC Sport
West Ham have set a list of criteria as they sift through a shortlist of
candidates to replace Sam Allardyce as manager of the Premier League club.
Allardyce, 60, will not be signing a new deal to remain Hammers boss. Owners
David Gold and David Sullivan want an ambitious boss to take the club to
"the next level" and win trophies. The candidate will be expected to
understand the club, its fans and culture, and can encourage the 'West Ham
way' of playing attacking football. Gold believes the Hammers, who finished
the season 12th, are almost certain to have qualified for the Europa League
via a Uefa Fair Play place.
What is the 'West Ham way'?
Generally thought by some West Ham fans to be a brand of attacking football
where the team goes for goals, such as when the club won the FA Cup three
times between 1965 and 1980 Critics question whether such a philosophy can
exist alongside a target of winning trophies, and bringing young players
through from the club's academy Based on the approach where defenders bring
the ball out from the back as typified by Bobby Moore, and later through the
likes of Alvin Martin and Rio Ferdinand. In his biography, former Manchester
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "I hope that before I die someone can
explain the 'West Ham way'. What is it? They last won a trophy in 1980, the
FA Cup."
Allardyce, after four years with the club in which he won promotion and
ensured Premier League stability but was criticised by some sections of the
fanbase for a supposedly negative approach, was told on Friday his contract
would not be renewed. West Ham are content with taking their time over
appointing a replacement, with the club preparing for their final season at
the Boleyn Ground before moving across East London to the Olympic Stadium in
time for the 2016-17 season. Gold and Sullivan themselves are leading the
hunt for Allardyce's replacement and have drawn up a list of candidates,
although one contender - former Liverpool manager and current Napoli boss
Rafael Benitez - is being strongly linked with a move to Spanish side Real
Madrid. The new boss is likely to oversee a European campaign starting in
July, with Gold saying the club is "99.9% certain" to have reached the
Europa League through the Fair Play criteria, which is expected to be
confirmed this week. Club sources say Gold and Sullivan are looking for a
manager who understands the culture surrounding West Ham, and will be
enthused by the stadium move. The successful candidate will also be expected
to promote the club's academy and give young players a chance to break
through into the first team.
Bookmakers' favourites for West Ham job
Slaven Bilic (Odds as of 23:00 BST, 24 May: 1-2. Age: 46) Wants the job and
has just left Turkish side Besiktas, but has no managerial experience in the
Premier League and would be a big risk. Former head coach of the Croatia
national team, was a popular player at Upton Park in the mid-1990s.
David Moyes (Odds: 4-1. Age: 51) Stock is higher following successful six
months with Real Sociedad after flopping at Manchester United. Did a
creditable job previously at Everton, although may fancy more time in Spain
before any return to the Premier League.
Unai Emery (Odds: 5-1. Age: 43) Sevilla head coach considered a hot
property, and has drawn comparisons with Jose Mourinho. Also linked with a
move to Read Madrid if Carlo Ancelotti is replaced.
Steve McClaren (Odds: 10-1. Age: 54) Former England manager would fit West
Ham owners' prototype of going for managers with top-flight experience.
McClaren's future at Derby County is unclear, although he could be courted
by Newcastle.
line
As players paid tribute to the departing manager, Allardyce said that
attacking options were likely to be a focus for his successor.
"We can't finish and we can't score and that's become ever more apparent in
the last few weeks," he told West Ham's official website.
"Our build-up is fine, but the depth of our quality of finishing is just not
there and that's an area for someone else now."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to break the 100k barrier for the right man
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 25th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are preparing to push the boat out in order to land the right
manager to succeed the recently-departed Sam Allardyce.
60-year-old Allardyce ended his four-year association with the Hammers
moments after the final whistle had blown in the match against Newcastle at
St James' Park on Sunday afternoon - a game the hosts won 2-0.
And KUMB understands that the club are prepared to pay a figure well in
excess of top earner Andy Carroll's near-£5million salary in order to secure
the big-name signing required to lead the club into the Olympic Stadium
little more than a year from now.
Jurgen Klopp, Carlo Ancelotti and long-term target Rafa Benitez are three
names hovering near the top of the Board's wish list tonight and would
certainly command a salary close to that figure.
Whilst Benitez remains the favoured candidate of at least one Board member,
despite having expressed interest in the West Ham post he is believed to
favour a return to Real Madrid where he spent seven years as a player during
the 1970s and '80s.
Further along the chain, Benitez's opportunities of returning to the
Bernabeu rest upon Real's decision with regard to 55-year-old Ancelotti, who
is rumoured be facing the sack two years into a three year contract in
Spain. His future will be determined at a meeting later this week.
Should both Benitez and Ancelotti reject West Ham's overtures, Klopp remains
an unlikely yet tantalising prospect.
Although it was suggested last week that he had ruled himself out of the
running, it is now thought that may not be the case - even if the current
Dortmund boss' signature is being sought by a string of top clubs searching
for a new manager this summer.
Who'll fill the Boleyn hotseat next?
Meanwhile last week's odds-on favourite Slaven Bilic remains a further
option should none of the club's main targets accept the vacancy. Out of
contract at the end of the season, the 46-year-old is tempted by the
opportunity to manage in England.
As reported on KUMB last week, Marseille boss Marcelo Bielsa has also been
sounded out whilst Seville manager Unai Emery's name continued to be linked
with the post - although reports emerging from Italy on Sunday claimed he
has agreed to join Milan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Thanks Sam, say Sullivan and Gold
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 24th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham united's co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold have paid tribute
to Sam Allardyce, on the day that told him he was no longer wanted at West
Ham.
The 60-year-old's association with the club came to an abrupt end after four
years this afternoon when the club confirmed he would not be considered for
a new contract via their website.
And despite having wanted shot of him for several months, Sullivan and
partner Gold jointly released a statement praising his achievements.
"We would like to start by thanking Sam Allardyce for his valuable work
since arriving at the Boleyn Ground four years ago," they said. "He leaves
the Club in a considerably better state then when he arrived and, for that,
the Board are truly grateful.
"However, we have made the decision not to renew his contract, so we now
have the chance to appoint a new manager with a new philosophy to lead us
into two of the most exciting years in our great Club's history.
"Our target is to recruit a manager that will build a team capable of saying
a fitting farewell to the Boleyn Ground next year and do justice to the
outstanding surrounds we will call home from August 2016.
"We have already been impressed with the quality of candidates that have
expressed an interest in the role and fully expect to appoint a manager with
the credentials to take this Club on to new heights.
"From our point of view there isn't a more exciting job in the Premier
League at present."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons couldn't say goodbye to Sam fast enough!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
In the end it couldn't have been quicker.
The statement had been prepared and was on the official site at precisely
4.50 – that's how badly the board wanted Sam Allardyce gone.
No end of season review…no special board meeting – the decision had been
made weeks back but even this morning ClaretandHugh received a phone call
telling us to say nothing about the fact that he'd be gone within seconds of
the whistle blowing in Newcastle.
We were told: "We need a result up there – do nothing that could impact on
the result but he'll be gone a soon as the game is done."
In fact it was all pretty well known by then but it was none the less pretty
embarrassing when the end finally came!
"Game lost 2-0 – the statement is up and you are no longer our manager."
It's been a long haul but behind the scenes the game has been up for a long
time. And the reasons he was sacked are exactly the same as those the fans
screaming for his departure have held.
The board are desperate to see the West Ham fans being entertained by the
type of football which they and many of us were brought up on. They knew it
wasn't going to happen under the former manager -how good does that sound?
But there was a much bigger reason for the decision to say goodbye to the
old bruiser from Dudley- and as quickly as possible: THE FANS.
Time and again in conversations with leading figures inside the club over
the past few months I was told: "He has not healed that relationship with
them and it is critical. The club is divided down the middle and it can't go
on. We've all had enough."
So the issue that has monopolised us for months and months is no more – it
all has something of a dream like quality about it.
FORMER MANAGER Sam Allardyce is no more – we have our club back at last and
now let's unite and put this dreadful last two years to bed once and for
all.
We all deserve tonight…and we all deserve a rest!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Unai Emery is bookies second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
The announcement that West Ham will not be renewing Sam Allardyce's contract
has opened up the betting markets, all keen to make money guessing his
successor. No less than ten bookmakers are now running books on his
replacement.
Slaven Bilic remains the outright odds on favourite across all ten
bookmakers ranging from 1/5 to a more generous 5/6.
A new second favourite has emerged in the shape of Unai Emery being quoted
with odds as short as 5/2 by Sky Bet but as much as 7/1 by Betfair. David
Moyes remains as third favourite followed by Roberto Di Matteo as fourth
favourite.
43 year old Emery made his name as manager of Valencia, winning 49% of his
games in charge before a six-month stint as Spartak Moscow manager. He has
been back in Spain with Sevilla since January 2013, Emery won the Europa
League trophy last season and now has Sevilla in the final of the same
competition again this season. Sevilla finished in fifth place in the La
Liga table.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Legend Parkes so glad Allardyce has gone!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham legend Phil Parkes is delighted that Sam Allardyce is gone! In a no
punches pulled exclusive interview with ClaretandHugh the brilliant former
keeper declared as we told him the news: "So it's official – thank God." And
he added: "I'm not surprised. I didn't watch the game today just as I have
tried to avoid watching for the past two or three months. I can't watch that
stuff and I have felt so sorry for our fans who have paid to do so. It's
been dreadful."
Parksey poured brutal scorn on every reason for keeping Allardyce declaring:
"They say he keeps teams up but had it not been for a good start we'd have
been in the same position as Newcastle today, or perhaps even worse."I've
never seen him as a safer pair of hands than many but I've seen him provide
come awful football. Some of it has been as bad as anything I've seen at
this club."
Never a lover of the Allardyce 'brand,' Phil finally lost it with him when
the cupped ear incident happened against Hull last season.
He said: "You don't do that to our fans who are the greatest around. He
never bought into the history of this amazing club or the passion of those
fantastic supporters and that was his biggest problem.""John Lyall would
have come out afterwards and apologised to them if a team of his had played
like that and said the opposition should have won as they deserved. John
understood the way West Ham managers behave. Sam didn't. "This has been a
long time coming and I'm glad the Sam era has gone, We deserve a quality
manager for our quality supporters and quality club. But I'll leave it to
the owners to find him.."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Maiga to return pre season
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Maiga came on as a second half substitute for Metz's last game of the season
to complete his season long loan for the French outfit. Despite his
appearance on 56 minutes Metz lost their final game to Lille 4-1. Metz are
relegated from Ligue 1 which former Metz striker Diafra Sakho help them
achieve. In the 2013–14 season Sakho scored 20 goals in 36 appearances as
Metz won the Ligue 2 title. For his performances, Sakho was voted Ligue 2
Player of the Year for the 2013–14 season.
Maiga will now report back for training with West Ham in late June when the
pre season campaign begins unless a new loan deal can be found. Maiga signed
West Ham for a reported £4.7m from Sochaux scoring 6 goals for the Hammers
from 37 appearances.
Metz were thought to paying just £6,000 of Maiga £30,000 per week wages. He
has one year remaining on his West Ham contract worth around £1.5m in wages.
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