Preview - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United take on reigning Barclays Premier League champions Chelsea this Saturday as they look to protect a six-game unbeaten league run. The Hammers have risen to fourth in the table after a run of four wins and two draws since they last tasted defeat.
That means they currently sit six points above Saturday's visitors – a scenario that few would have predicted on the opening day of the campaign.
Chelsea's difficulties at the start of the season have been well documented, and they arrive in E13 with the fourth leakiest defence in the division. With three wins, two draws and four defeats from the first nine games, they have already tasted defeat on more occasions than last season, and currently sit in 12th position. However, they did win last time out – 2-0 against Aston Villa, and followed that up with a 0-0 UEFA Champions League draw at Dynamo Kiev in midweek.
The history
The Hammers and Chelsea have a long-standing rivalry, stretching over 103 games and 92 years. Since that first Football League meeting – a 0-0 draw in October 1923, the Blues have held the advantage with 47 wins to the Hammers' 37. Much of that Chelsea dominance comes from the last decade, with Chelsea winning 15 times in the period the Hammers have registered just one victory. That was a 3-1 success at the Boleyn Ground in 2012/13, when Carlton Cole, Mohamed Diame and Modibo Maiga were all on target. Last term, Chelsea triumphed 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day, following that with a 1-0 victory at the Boleyn Ground a little over two months later.
The match
Team news
West Ham United
Slaven Bilic will be without Victor Moses, who is ineligible to face his parent club, and Winston Reid, who is sidelined with a minor back injury. This game comes around too quickly for Alex Song, but Enner Valencia, Angelo Ogbonna and Andy Carroll all returned for last week's victory at Crystal Palace.
Chelsea
Pedro, Branislav Ivanovic and Loic Remy are all injured and will miss Saturday's game at the Boleyn Ground. Blues boss Jose Mourinho has a decision to make over whether to recall PFA Player of the Year Eden Hazard to his team.
Match info
Saturday's referee is Jonathan Moss. The Yorkshire official has already taken charge of one Hammers game this term – the 4-3 defeat to AFC Bournemouth – and he will be assisted by Andy Halliday and Harry Lennard. The fourth official is Andy Woolmer.
West Ham have won just one of their last 18 Premier League meetings with Chelsea (D3, L14).
Their last victory came at Upton Park in December 2012, when they won 3-1.
West Ham have made their best start to a Premier League season with 17 points after nine games.
They are unbeaten in their last six league games, with four wins and two draws.
Only Manchester City (24) have scored more goals than West Ham (20) in the Premier League this season.
Chelsea have only won one of their last five away games in the league (D1, L3).
The Blues have made their second worst start to a Premier League campaign with 11 points after nine games.
Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info
Tickets for Saturday's game have SOLD OUT.
The theme for Saturday's match is Greatest Moments – as voted for by you – and several Hammers legends will be returning to be presented to the crowd at half-time.
A day of cloud, with light rain at times, is predicted for Saturday. Temperature at kick-off is set to be around 14C (57F)
No closures are planned on the District and Hammersmith & City lines serving Upton Park. Click here for full information of TfL services. Click here for details on National Rail services.
If you're not heading to the game, make sure you stay tuned to our digital channels for all the very latest updates, pictures, stats and audio commentary. Get involved in the conversation on social using the hashtag #WHUCHE
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Chelsea betting preview with Betway
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are looking for their second home win of the Premier League season and in the process trying to extend their unbeaten league run to seven matches. That form has taken Slaven Bilić's side into the Champions League spots at this early stage of the season, but history tells us that a game against Chelsea is the ultimate test. The Hammers have just one win in 18 matches against their west London rivals, but have a great chance of making that two in 19. Jose Mourinho's side arrive at the Boleyn Ground in 12th place in the table with just three wins since the start of the season.
The prices reflect Chelsea's dominance of the fixture in recent years, with an away win listed as favourite at 19/20. But even co-chairman David Sullivan has hinted that us bookies might have got this one wrong. Speaking to the Evening Standard in midweek, Sullivan said "Chelsea are odds-on, but the odds on us are generous with Chelsea travelling to Ukraine to play in the Champions League." Those "generous" odds are currently 11/4 with Betway, and the draw is listed at 13/5.
West Ham United's last win in this fixture came in December 2012 when the Blues were sent back to the other side of London with a 3-1 beating. A repeat of that scoreline is priced at a huge 25/1. A 1-0 home win is offered at a more realistic 11/1. The favourite on the 'Correct Score' market is 1-1 draw at 13/2. Both of last season's games resulted in a Chelsea win and clean-sheet – which is offered at 23/10.
The Hammers were on song in their most recent London derby last week and goalscorers from that game feature heavily in a few popular markets. The 'First Goalscorer' list has Manuel Lanzini and Dimitri Payet at 11/1 and 9/1 respectively to break the deadlock. Let's not also forget the goalscoring form of full-back Carl Jenkinson – he is offered at a generous 11/1 to score at any time in the game.
At Betway we have over 100 markets on Saturday's game and those throughout the Barclays Premier League.
Remember you can access a whole host of Hammers exclusive Betway seasonal bets by clicking here. Our enhanced sign-up bonus for West Ham United fans is right here.
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Tactically Speaking - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Weakness is not a term that has been associated with Chelsea, or any team managed by Jose Mourinho, too often.
However, this season the Blues have struggled in a number of areas, which is why they find themselves sitting in the bottom half of the table, rather than their usual position in the top four and challenging for the title.
For whatever reason – perhaps the 'lack of confidence and self-esteem' alluded to by Mourinho last weekend, or fatigue following three long seasons of domestic, European and international competition –Chelsea have had problems preventing their opponents from creating chances and regularly opening up their back four.
Last season, Mourinho's side conceded just 32 goals in 38 league matches on their way to winning the Barclays Premier League title, but this term they have already let in 17 goals in just nine games.
Statistics do not normally lie, and it goes without saying that Chelsea are an easier proposition to get at than they were this time a year ago.
When they do get it right, Chelsea still have an outstanding squad of players, with top-class internationals all over the pitch.
Mourinho wants his team to play a short passing, possession-based, aggressive, attacking football in the opposition half, controlling the game and not allowing their opponents the opportunity to dominate.
With averages of 55 per cent possession and 82 per cent pass completion, the suggestion is that Chelsea are not in complete disarray, while their average of 14.9 shots per game is actually marginally up on the 2014/15 campaign.
The problems the Blues are experiencing are clearly at the defensive end, where they are allowing a barely believable 13.3 shots on their own goal per game. Last season, that figure was just 10.9.
After selecting a consistent back four of Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill and Azpilicueta ahead of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois last season, Mourinho has chopped and changed his defence regularly this season in search of a winning formula.
Courtois' injury problems have seen Asmir Begovic replace him between the sticks, while Terry, Cahill and Ivanovic have all struggled to show their very best form on a consistent basis.
A week ago, Ivanovic too was injured and Azpilicueta moved to right-back, with untested Ghanaian Baba Rahman brought in for his Premier League debut at left-back. Kurt Zouma partnered Terry in the centre of defence, with recent England captain Cahill dropped to the bench.
With Nemanja Matic restored from the bench at half-time in place of youngster Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Chelsea finally found some semblance of rhythm in the second half of their win over Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.
Central to that improved showing was the return of striker Diego Costa, who led the line with aggression and fight – characteristics valued highly by his manager.
In between is arguably Chelsea's strongest suit – their midfield. Spaniards Cesc Fabregas and Pedro, Belgian Eden Hazard and Brazilians Oscar, Ramires and Willian are all supremely talented players, so it is somewhat puzzling that they have not clicked more regularly this term.
However, when you consider that many of those mentioned have been playing non-stop for club and country for years on end, maybe the demands of being some of the best on the planet have, for the moment, caught up with them?
Formation-wise, Chelsea WILL line up in the 4-2-3-1 shape that Mourinho has favoured with Chelsea and previous club Real Madrid for many seasons. Which players will be picked to fill it is less certain.
Possible team: (4-2-3-1) Begovic, Azpilicueta, Zouma, Terry, Rahman, Matic, Fabregas, Ramires, Willian, Pedro, Costa
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Kanu relishing sparkling form
WHUFC.com
Young striker Idris Kanu is relishing the U18's journey to south Wales to play Swansea City U18 on Saturday 24 October.
The Hammers have been in fantastic form of late, winning their last five consecutive games.
The sixteen year-old's goals have directly contributed to this run, his strike against Chelsea – unbeaten at the time – helped secure the three points.
The youngster found himself through on goal with just one Chelsea defender to beat. He expertly cut inside on his stronger right foot and curled his shot into the top right-hand corner of the net.
His second goal proved was arguably more important as it proved to be the winner over then league leaders Reading.
Reflecting on the victory, Kanu said: "I think the 1-0 against Reading is our best win so far. They were top of the table and they're a good side, it was a real battle with two sides playing similar styles of football. To come through that and win was really good."
Now, the young Hammers find themselves on a six game winning streak. Reflecting on their magnificent run of form, he continued: "We've been on a great run recently; everyone's been playing well together and working hard. It's all going well for us at the moment.
"We've all gelled well together, and we're very strong defensively now. Because we don't let in many goals, that's a good platform for us to go on attack from. We've won a lot of games 1-0 and 2-0, which is largely down to the defence allowing us to play the way we want to.
"The aim is to finish in the play offs so we can play the best teams in the Northern Division. I really like working with Steve Potts and Mark Phillips, they want the best for you and they allow you to perform and demonstrate your ability."
The U18s play Swansea City U18 on Saturday 24 October, kick off 11am at Fairwood Training Ground.
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From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
After nine games we are fourth in the Premier League and are virtually a quarter of the way through the season. We have shown that we are a decent side. The fans are excited by the way we are playing and the results we have achieved this season. We go into a big game against Chelsea feeling very optimistic but I have to stress they are a wounded animal and we are still facing the Premier League champions. There is very little change in the squad from last season and I see them challenging again this year. I am aware of the great talent they have got and there is still a long way to go. I have great admiration for the job Jose Mourinho has done at Chelsea and I know the criticism he has received this season will be hurting him and everyone at the Club.
It can all change for them so quickly but we obviously hope that will not happen on Saturday. I am looking forward immensely to the game and feel fairly relaxed. It is nice to know we are not struggling at the foot of the table and we are competing at the right end.
Slaven's contribution has been fantastic and he has helped put together the strongest squad of players since we took ownership of the Club. Each of the nine games we have played this season, the bench has only got stronger and I am sure it will be the same again when we play Chelsea. I mentioned it last week but I thought James Collins was outstanding during the 3-1 win over Crystal Palace. That was his first Premier League start but it shows the strength in depth that we have got in the squad. There is no certainty for anyone to keep their place and they have to keep performing to the best of their ability every week to stay in the team. If James is picked to play against Chelsea on Saturday, I am sure he will not let anyone down once again and will relish the chance to come up against a talented player like Diego Costa. We will certainly need James to be at his best. These are the last occasions we are going to see big Clubs like Chelsea coming to the Boleyn Ground and I know it is going to be another special atmosphere inside the stadium. I am sure all eyes will once again be on Dimitri Payet but I don't think it matters who we play against. Payet plays his game and shines whoever the opposition is.
But he also has other players who help him perform so well. He is relishing the chance to play with the likes of Sakho, Lanzini and Carroll. I know we are celebrating the Club's greatest moments at the Boleyn Ground when we face Chelsea. One of my greatest moments was seeing Sir Stanley Matthews play for Blackpool at Upton Park and he was someone who was so iconic at that time – probably how David Beckham is now. But he was upstaged by a small winger called Jimmy Andrews who managed to get the winner in a 2-1 victory back in 1952.
I am sure our supporters have so many magical memories throughout the years and let's hope we can provide another one with three points against the champions on Saturday.
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Collins - I want to stay in the team
WHUFC.com
James Collins enjoyed one of the best moments of his career last week after he was part of the Wales squad that famously reached the Euro Finals next summer.
Wales have not been part of a major international tournament since 1958, but Collins and his team-mates have defied all the odds during the qualifying campaign and finished above Belgium and Bosnia and Herzegovina to reach the showpiece event in France.
The 32-year-old has become a fans favourite at the Boleyn Ground during his ten-year spell in east London and capped off a fine week when he was handed his first Premier League start against Crystal Palace.
Collins showed once again why he is rated so highly as he produced a superb display at the heart of the Hammers defence and played a major role in the 3-1 victory.
With Winston Reid ruled out of the big London derby against Chelsea on Saturday, Collins hopes he will get the chance to cement his place in the side and show Slaven Bilic why he should be a first-team regular.
Collins said: "I have been waiting a while and I knew when the chance came along I would have to perform well. I don't think I made too many mistakes and we came away with a victory.
"It is down to me now and I have got the shirt. That is the good thing being at West Ham at the moment in that we have got to perform well every week to stay in the team.
"We have got world class players waiting to step in if we don't perform well. That is the beauty of having a big squad and you need the competition behind you to keep you on your toes.
"If I get the chance to play against Chelsea on Saturday I know I will have to perform just as well or even better.
"No disrespect to anyone I have played with at West Ham but this is the best squad I have been part of. We can probably put out two teams at the moment and competition for places has helped.
"There is a good atmosphere around the training ground and everyone gets on. Confidence is high and if we can defend well, we know we have players upfront who create chances and score goals. It is a great place to be at the moment."
With the Hammers already recording big away wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, Collins sees no reason why they cannot extend that impressive run and beat the Premier League Champions this weekend.
Collins added: "There is every chance we can beat them. Chelsea are struggling more than when they came to Upton Park last season.
"We have had a good week's training and we are all looking forward to a good game. I remember when we beat them 3-1 at home a couple of seasons ago and we have had some great games against them."
Collins will be joining up with the Wales squad once again next month when they play Holland in a friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium and is already counting down the days to the big tournament in France next summer.
Hammers skipper Mark Noble recently joked that Collins is always pictured alongside Gareth Bale in the celebrations, but the 'Ginger Pele' says he is only jealous and would love to be following in his footsteps!
He joked: "I try and get in the photos! I have always been close with Gaz and he is probably the longest I have been playing with in the squad. I think Nobes is a bit jealous and I like to send him a few photos!
"When we qualified in Bosnia it was an amazing feeling and something I never thought I would experience. To be part of the team that has qualified for the first team is something special.
"It is a special moment for my whole family who have been following me all around Wales and watching me play since I was 15 all the way through to the senior squad.
"With the squad we have got there is no reason why we cannot go and compete against the bigger teams and do well. We have got world class players all over the pitch."
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West Ham v Chelsea
KO 15:00
23 October 2015
Last updated at 11:30
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday 24 October
TEAM NEWS
West Ham are without defender Winston Reid again because of a minor back injury, and Victor Moses is ineligible to face his parent club.
Enner Valencia could make his first start of the season, while Alex Song will return to full training next week.
Visitors Chelsea remain without the injured trio of Pedro, Loic Remy and Branislav Ivanovic. Manager Jose Mourinho would not comment on whether Eden Hazard will be recalled to the side.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Jonathan Pearce: "I love this fixture. It's always been a growler of a London derby with snap, crackle and pop - more often than not there goes another Chelsea winner. But that might not happen this time if Slaven Bilic gambles on Andy Carroll from the start.
"Whisper it quietly but John Terry and Chelsea are slowly regaining their mojo. They ground out a result against Villa and were resolute in Kiev. They now have two clean sheets in a row. "But they'd hate to face Carroll. He made all the difference to West Ham at Palace last week. "Chelsea have a brilliant record at the Hammers but, unless Hazard sparkles, this could be a home win."
Twitter: @jpearcefootball
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "We have played some really good stuff, but we have to be more patient when we play at home. "We have that patience away, and we scored goals at Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool at the right times. We are trying to approach the game in the same way, regardless of where we play."
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho: "The players were man enough to assume responsibility and to say even publicly some of them that they were feeling responsibilities in their individual poor start. "But the team was always together. We've got two important results - three points in the Premier League and, against a direct rival for qualification in the Champions League [Dynamo Kiev], we got a point away.
"The mood improves with results and people are happy."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Chelsea beat Aston Villa last week, albeit without playing particularly well, and I see a similar outcome this time after what could be a horrible, scrappy game. West Ham have only won one out of four games at home and I don't think they will get much joy out of trying to hit Chelsea on the break. Only Chelsea have stopped West Ham from scoring in their last 21 matches at home.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have won just one of their last 18 Premier League meetings with Chelsea (D3, L14).
Their last victory came at Upton Park in December 2012, when they won 3-1.
Since that defeat, Chelsea haven't conceded a goal against the Hammers in five meetings.
West Ham
West Ham have made their best start to a Premier League season with 17 points after nine games.
They are unbeaten in their last six league games, with four wins and two draws.
Only Manchester City (24) have scored more goals than West Ham (20) in the Premier League this season.
The Hammers have won their two London derbies so far this season, against Arsenal and Crystal Palace, but have lost their last three at home.
Dimitri Payet has scored five goals and provided three assists in nine Premier League appearances for West Ham.
Chelsea
Chelsea have only won one of their last five away games in the league (D1, L3).
The Blues have made their second worst start to a Premier League campaign with 11 points after nine games.
Jose Mourinho has lost just five of his 52 London derbies in the Premier League (W36, D11).
Chelsea have conceded a league-high five headed goals this season.
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West Ham United v Chelsea
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Preview Percy
They appear to have discovered a star in the depths of space that is surrounded by some sort of hyperstructure that may, or may not have been constructed by an intelligence far in advance of anything the human brain can comprehend. If you're reading this up there, have you got anyone who can write match previews? Until they get back to us, here's Preview Percy....
Next up we play host to the money laundering operation that is Chelsea. Kick-off is 3pm Saturday which, for any Chelsea fans reading this, is the traditional time and day on which matches kick off in England. Tradition? Dictionaries are available both online and from all good bookshops.
Trains throughout the east of this wonderful city of ours appear to be engineering work-free (with the exception of the quarantine works in the Tottenham area). Rain is forecast at the time of writing so don't say you weren't warned.
Well it's all a bit messy over there isn't it . After picking up the title last season they've got off to the sort of start that one might describe as "indifferent". Or "bloody awful" when you take into account the fact that they are the defending champions. They're currently sitting in 12th place with 11 points from 9 games, the win against a poor Villa side covering over the cracks to a certain extent. The fact is they have lost four times already, which is hardly the stuff of champions.
There have been rumours-a-plenty of what is euphemistically referred to as dressing-room "unrest" and the so-called "special (needs) one" has been going into conspiracy theory overload. Mourinho went into print recently to describe some of the fines dished out to him and his club as "a disgrace". Well that's one thing on which we can agree Jose. Chelsea were fined £40,000 for their players part in the fracas in the Arsenal match following incidents in which their player was found guilty of unpunished violent conduct. Consider that against the £50k we got hit with for an incident in which it was proven that we had been the victims of genuine refereeing injustice up at Liverpool. Yup Mourinho, I make you right there – "disgrace" is definitely the word.
It wouldn't be so bad if he had any sort of genuine point, but over the years his players have gotten away with so much murder over the years – Andre Marriner was their MOTM at the Boleyn last season - you'd think he'd learn to bite his lip on those rare occasions that the den of mediocrity that is our refereeing gene pool actually get something right and punish the one in twenty blatant dives they manage to spot. Of course Mourinho, like Ferguson before him, is a past master of building up pressure on referees as a combination of reverse psychology and distraction tactic. However, unlike the red-nosed Scottish git, his methods lack subtlety and, for the reverse psychology bit anyway, they appear to be proving counterproductive at the moment.
So – apart from the fact that even our stupid match officials may have rumbled what the rest of us have known for years - why the poor start? Well they didn't have much of a pre-season to start with. Whilst some of us were slumming it, knocking back cocktails at the Dom Mintoff Retirement Complex and Workhouse in clocking up meaningful competition time in Malta in the Europa League, Chelsea players were probably on a beach somewhere having been given extra time off. Now there will have been genuine reasons for this – some will have been on Copa America duty for example and, to be fair it felt like we were playing Europa League matches six months before we'd even qualified for the bloody thing. However, when it came around to the (Care In The) Community Shield they did look for all the world like a side only a week or so into its pre-season preparation which seems to have consisted of a holiday in the States. This left Arsenal to carry home the not-very-coveted-unless-you-win-the-thing Shield, and the fact that they'd beaten the reigning champions ended up giving them a false sense of security which almost certainly contributed to their 2-0 defeat to us the following weekend. So the shortened pre-season then. A genuine attempt at giving some players rest time of a spot of arrogance? Probably an element of both.
Then there was "medigate" when the team's doctor was castigated – and eventually (constructively) dismissed for not being able to tell when a Chelsea player is feigning injury and when he was actually injured. Now ok with Chelsea obviously nine times out of ten it will be the former but, given all that Hippocratic oath stuff that doctors tend to take rather seriously, Crippen/Shipman/Fox (possibly not a real doctor) notwithstanding, the medic's treatment by the club was pretty bad darts all round and it certainly didn't help any with club harmony.
Of course they splashed the cash over the summer – yacht-boy's expenditure since taking over has, according to the work experience kid with the Harry Potter spectacles, topped the one BILLION mark. Even if you accept the new-fangled definition of a billion that's still £1,000,000,000 of Her Majesty's pounds. To put that into context, if you laid out that amount in five pound notes placed end to end, the line of banknotes would stretch half way around Neil Ruddock. I expect.
This summer something like £64 and a half million went in player acquisitions, though when netted out with funds received from sales the total net spend was "only" something like £29.25m.
The biggest fee shelled out was the £19m (rising to about £24.5m with add-ons and depending on how many Euros to the pound the nearest Post Office to Stamford Bridge is giving) for the Canary Islands-born winger Pedro.
The next biggest fee was the £14m (potentially £22m with add-ons) for Augsburg left-back Abdul Rahman. Rahman, whose "Baba" nickname as seen on the back of his shirt comes from his Dad is a Ghanaian international whose youth career started in his homeland with the improbably-named Dreams FC, which, thankfully, has no connection with the dreadful and not in any way missed Sky football-soap Dream Team. There are rumours that the same youth setup has a team called Nightmare FC who play in Spurs kit. Or at least there will be once I start spreading them.
"Baba" had been used sparingly thus far this season – until his league debut against Villa last weekend the League Cup had been his territory. £14m (never mind £22m) does rather seem a lot but frankly, like the rest of the world I've long since given up on trying to make sense of Chelseanomics.
An injury to the no.1 no.1 (if you see what I mean) Thibault Courtois (actually no.13), has led to more game time than might otherwise have been anticipated for the no.2 no.1 Asmir Begovic (actually no.1). Begovic came in for £8m plus a player on loan from Stoke during the summer.
He's lived in a few places in his life having legged it out of Bosnia with his family when the civil war that followed the disintegration of what we used to call Yugoslavia made things rather unpleasant in that part of the world. They ended up in Germany then Edmonton, Canada before Begovic got a trial at Pompey. Pompey were impressed enough to sign the player before he had a chance to attend a subsequent trial that had been arranged for him at Spurs, presumably pointing out that Edmonton N9 had more in common with Bosnia than it did with its Alberta namesake. His arrival at Fratton Park at the age of 18 means that he actually qualifies as a "home grown" player when they are counting these things up, even though his lack of an EU passport while at Portsmouth meant his early years there were covered by a student visa meaning he couldn't play in any matches that people paid to watch.
Ironically, considering the fact that they have a squad and a half's worth of players out on loan, one of the bigger names to arrive, Falcao, came in on the borrow. Falcao had a largely uninspiring season at Old Trafford last term, something that may have put off even a club with as deep pockets as Chelsea from considering an immediate permanent deal. The deal with Monaco includes an option to purchase but he's not pulled up any trees with the Pensioners having scored just the once this season. Current reports suggest that his agent is trying to negotiate a curtailment of the season-long loan in order to find the player gainful employment somewhere on the continent more suited to his game.
Falcao might have hoped for more involvement given the recent suspension to Diego Costa. Costa's antics in the Arsenal match which were the subject of retrospective punishment from the authorities and gave him a three match lay-off for violent conduct. I'd wager a few bob with Winstones The Turf Accountants that that suspension might not be the last the player sees this season, given his confusion over the terms "channelled aggression" and "mindless thuggery". He's one of those players of whom it is often claimed that if you took that side of his game away he wouldn't be half the player. That's an argument that holds as much water as an ocean-going colander made of plutonium-enhanced lead strapped to a 20 tonne concrete block tied to Neil Ruddock. That sort of argument always strikes me as a lazy excuse for a player not to work on an aspect of his game that is letting him down and I reckon if the player erred on the "channelled aggression" of the equation Chelsea would end up with a much more potent threat. If nothing else they'd get more games out of him.
Enough of them. What of us? Good win last week I thought even if we did leave it late. The performance of Lanzini overall fair made the mouth water and it was good to see innovative substitutions from Mr Bilic made in what was eventually a successful attempt to grab all three points.
Elsewhere in the world of football, Man City are being hauled up before UEFA because their fans booed the pretentious so-called Champions League "anthem", a piece of music that should be rolled up and shoved up the firmament of whoever had the bright idea that what an overblown competition already up its own backside really needed was its own bloody anthem. Assuming that UEFA find something to charge Man City with and fine them, it will be interesting to see whether the resulting fine is larger or smaller than the €15,000 slap on the wrist given to Dinamo Kiev last March for racial abuse. Meanwhile EVERY supporter attending a so called Champions League match in the future should make sure they boo every time the damn thing is played.
Back to this weekend's events and injury news is that Reid is still out whilst Song needs a few more weeks yet. We will also be without Victor Moses who is one of the millions of players over the world who are on loan from Chelsea, thus rendering him ineligible. Enner Valencia was given a runout for the Development Squad in midweek, picking up a goal in the process so he may be in the frame to replace Moses.
Prediction? Hmm. Well they aren't always going to be as bad as they have been so far this season– though frankly they'd really have had something to worry about had they not beaten Villa last week. So the main question is when are they going to start to improve? Our reputation as sequence-busters would usually suggest that they'd start getting better at the Boleyn, and our home form thus far this season hasn't really suggested that the trend would be bucked. On the other hand, a number of sources have suggested that there is still much disharmony in the ranks. They will also have had a tough round trip to Kiev in midweek which won't help in their preparation. Throw into the fact that this season the more (supposedly) exalted the opposition has been the better we've performed and you know what? I think that I'll think that I'll put the 1p fines collected here at the Avram Grant Olympic Rest Home For The Bewildered from everyone who mentioned Back To The Bloody Future this week (£2.50) down to Winstones and stick it on a 2-2 draw.
Enjoy the game!
When Last We Met At The Boleyn: Lost 0-1 (March 2015). An offside goal and a string of disgraceful refereeing decisions in favour of the visitors strangely eluded the attention of the special needs one, whose team had Andre Marriner to thank for all three points.
Danger Man: Diego Costa –dangerous from a medical point of view as well as a playing one. Our centre halves will need to be at their most disciplined to avoid retaliation against some of the stuff that they are likely to face.
Referee: Jonathon Moss Regarded even by his fellow officials as a bit lucky to be in a job. We need a strong ref for this one. We haven't got one.
Irritating Celebrity Supporter Of The Week: Well we'll ignore the ignoramus who turns up to their home games with the 1905 London's First & Finest banner (They aren't even the oldest club with an SW postcode and I make it at least 8 professional clubs in the capital are older. Finest? I've wiped finer stuff off the soles of my shoes). No this week it has to be David Mellor. In some ways he's the archetypal Chelsea supporter in that until they started winning stuff – something that "coincidentally" started to occur just after the dodgy Russian took over- he used to support someone else. In Mellor's case it was Fulham for whose programme he used to chip in the odd note bemoaning how difficult it was to get down to Craven Cottage what with being an MP and all. In the interest of balance, it should be said that the story about him having sex in a Chelsea shirt was a load of made-up hokum. As the woman pointed out – it must have been unbearable enough without adding the horror of a Chelsea shirt into the equation.
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West Ham v Chelsea preview: Blues eye first back-to-back victories
Last Updated: 23/10/15 10:58pm
SSN
Chelsea are looking for back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time this season when they travel to West Ham. Jose Mourinho's men lie 12th in the table heading into Saturday's match, but they returned from the international break in much better form, beating Aston Villa last Saturday before producing an improved display in the 0-0 draw with Dynamo Kiev on Tuesday. The Blues have yet to win two league games in succession this season, and it will be tough to do so as they travel to one of the division's form teams.
West Ham are unbeaten in their past six Premier League outings, with Slaven Bilic's men lifting themselves to fourth in the table.
But with a poor record against Chelsea and only one win at home the season, Mourinho may go into Saturday's clash with renewed confidence.
Team news
West Ham will be without Victor Moses, who is ineligible to face his parent club, while Winston Reid has not quite shaken off the knock which kept him out of the 3-1 win at Crystal Palace last weekend. Midfielder Alex Song, meanwhile, is still a couple of weeks away from returning after a long-term ankle injury.
Mourinho has confirmed that there is no change to the injury situation at Stamford Bridge, which means Loic Remy and Pedro (both knocks), Branislav Ivanovic (hamstring) and Thibaut Courtois (knee) remain out.
Opta stats
West Ham have won just one of their past 18 Premier League clashes with Chelsea (won one, drawn three, lost 14).
Chelsea have not conceded a single goal in any of their past five Premier League matches against the Hammers, last conceding in a 3-1 defeat in Dec 2012.
West Ham have scored with a league-high 22 per cent of their shots this season in the Premier League, while only Manchester City (24) have scored more goals than the Hammers (20).
Dimitri Payet has created more goal-scoring chances than any other Premier League player so far this season (39).
West Ham have won their two Premier League London derbies so far this season (against Arsenal and Crystal Palace) - they only won two Premier League London derbies in the whole of 2014-15.
The Hammers have lost their past three Premier League London derbies at home, however.
Merson's prediction
If I were Chelsea, I'd be happy this game is at Upton Park, considering West Ham's recent away form. This is still a hard game for Chelsea, though, and they're in a position where they must win as many games as possible. Each week they just have to tick each game off as it comes.
West Ham have been very impressive this season, but if Eden Hazard finally turns up in a game - he needs to turn up sooner or later - I see Chelsea winning, although I'm not 100 percent sure.
Premier League questions
We take a look at 10 questions that could be answered by the end of the weekend.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2 (Sky Bet odds 7/1)
Betting
Fourth-placed West Ham are underdogs with Sky Bet ahead of the visit of Chelsea (10/11) to Upton Park. The Hammers have a poor record against the Blues and have failed to score in their five league matches and Chelsea are 2/1 to keep another clean sheet. They lost this fixture 1-0 last season and Sky Bet offer 15/2 for a repeat of that scoreline. Dimitri Payet has scored in successive matches for the Hammers and is 11/4 to net anytime with Eden Hazard, who scored the winner in this match last season, 3/1 to score in a Chelsea win.
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West Ham's on-song Dimitri Payet delighted to hear Hammers fans chant he's "better than Zidane"
22:30, 23 OCT 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
Frenchman has five goals and three assists already in his debut season and credits manager Slaven Bilic for his smooth transition to the Prem
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet's first sight of Slaven Bilic was the Croatia defender getting Laurent Blanc sent off at the 1998 World Cup. Now, West Ham manager Bilic is helping the French midfielder to dismiss the Premier League's best defenders in more thrilling style. At £10.7million from Marseille, 28-year-old Payet has been arguably the buy of the season with his five goals and three assists adding Gallic flair to the Hammers attack. And he claimed his rapid assimilation into English football is down to Bilic. "We speak a lot – he is quite close to me," said Payet. "I wouldn't say father and son, but a bit in that style. I like to have a good relationship with my manager. I am someone who responds better to praise. "I like to be given responsibility. When it goes badly, he can tell me, when it goes well, he can say as well. I like this relationship. It is going well and he has given me a lot of trust and I have tried to give it back on the pitch. "I knew from Joe Cole [a team-mate at Lille] that this was a special club and had a way of playing. From the first match, I quickly understood that the fans really like that and I was going to like it here."
Payet's popularity with the West Ham faithful has already been rewarded with his own song claiming he is "better than Zidane".
"I heard it after the Crystal Palace match – it was posted a lot on my Twitter feed," he smiled. "It is the first time I have a song with my name – it never happens in France. It really touched me. I would like to thank the fans. "Even to be compared with him is a really good thing for me."
But Payet is hardly an overnight success at the age of 28. He left Reunion – a French-ruled island in the Indian Ocean – at the age of 11 to go to Le Havre, before returning home four years later. "I think what happened in my formation, especially not to be been kept, to have gone home, to come back again with a real determination, has forged my character," he said. Payet then went back to France to play for Nantes, St Etienne, Lille and Marseille before finally crossing the Channel in June.
Payet, who once had an on-field altercation with a St Etienne team-mate, believes he has mellowed. "I am calmer nowadays," said the France international. "An enfant terrible? Yes, I was difficult to control. But the passing years and the fact I now have children have calmed me." So, like Bilic, he has a colourful past. "I remember him from the 1998 World Cup," Payet added. "He deprived Laurent Blanc of the World Cup final, but Blanc was still a world champion. We have never discussed it. I remember thinking at the time what he had done wasn't good – but he did a good simulation (circle)!"
Payet has been left out of the France squad since June. And with Didier Deschamps captaining Les Bleus in 1998, asking Bilic to call the current France coach to plead his case might not be the best idea "I don't know about that," he laughed. "But it makes me happy that he is willing to defend me. Playing for France at Euro 2016 is one of my personal aims. I have to play well for my club and that is what I try to do."
* DIMITRI PAYET reckons champions Chelsea have lost their fear factor – but his former team-mate Eden Hazard is still scary.
Jose Mourinho's side visit Upton Park this Saturday down in 12th place – eight spots behind West Ham – after only one win their last five games. And Payet said: "As Chelsea have lost one or two matches at the start of the season, everyone says: 'It is now possible to beat Chelsea'. There is maybe less fear than before. Other teams are a bit more relaxed when they play Chelsea. "But they remain a top team. They have not lost their quality in two months."
Payet played for a season with Hazard at Lille before the Belgian joined Chelsea in 2012. "It was a pleasure to play with such a player - it was easy to play with Eden," he recalled. "I think in the years to come he is going to be the best along with Messi and Ronaldo."
Hazard has struggled so far in this campaign, but the Frenchman explained: "There is a lot of pressure. Chelsea's game goes a lot through him. Last season he created nearly all their chances and goals. So the team relies on him. "I watched the match against Newcastle and two or three other matches. As soon as he touches the ball, there are two or three players on him trying to stop him playing. "It is going less well at the moment but I am not worried for him. Eden is someone very strong mentally. I have no worries that he will get through this and return to his usual level and he will help Chelsea reach their goals. "If I said I was not scared of him, I would be a liar! He is still their top player going forward."
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laven Bilic compares Manuel Lanzini to Luka Modric and declares "he makes our other players play better"
18:45, 23 OCT 2015 UPDATED 18:46, 23 OCT 2015
BY ALEX RICHARDS
The Argentine is spending the season on loan from Al Jazira with the Hammers and West Ham hold an option to make his move permanent if he impresses
The Mirror
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic has hailed on-loan Argentine starlet Manuel Lanzini, comparing him to Real Madrid's Luka Modric. Lanzini, 22, has wasted little time in impressing at Upton Park as part of Bilic's East End revolution, having joined on a season-long loan from UAE side AL Jazira in the summer. The former River Plate youngster already has two Premier League goals to his name - in the win at Liverpool and last week's 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace - and the Hammers sit fourth in the table. Now former Croatia boss Bilic has acclaimed the young schemer, likening him to the man around whom he built his national side, ex-Spurs midfielder Modric . "I have never seen a player who reminds me of Luka Modric as much as Manuel Lanzini," the 47-year-old wrote in The Evening Standard. "Luka is my favourite player. He is my prototype of a great midfielder. I put Luka in the Croatia Under-21s and then in the senior team and we have a special kind of bond. But Lanzini has the same kind of qualities." The Hammers face Chelsea at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday afternoon, looking to further cement their place among the league's elite. Lanzini, who has taken a more central role in Bilic's attacking lineup recently, is once more expected to start, with his manager believing that the Argentine makes those around him lift themselves. "What I do know is he is making our other players better," continued the Irons chief. "He always wants the ball. That's why we put him in midfield. "He always makes himself available. If the players are in trouble, he comes and gets it. He does not look strong but some players can defy that physicality to impose themselves. Modric is the same and, like him, Lanzini is not afraid either. I am delighted with him."
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Carlton Cole hails West Ham fans as he vows to become a hit with Celtic supporters
12:29, 23 OCT 2015 UPDATED 12:29, 23 OCT 2015
BY JOHN CROSS
Cole turned down several offers, including one to join up with Sam Allardyce at Sunderland, to sign at Celtic Park
The Mirror
Carlton Cole has paid a glowing tribute to West Ham's fans - and is confident of becoming a big hit with Celtic supporters. Former England striker Cole, 32, who was a free agent, has signed a two-year deal at Celtic following his departure from Upton Park in the summer. That followed a disappointing end to his West Ham career after Sam Allardyce blocked him from joining West Brom in January only for him to barely get a look-in at Upton Park for the rest of the campaign. Cole has always enjoyed a close affinity with West Ham fans and was left upset at the way it finished after spending nine years in two spells at Upton Park. But Cole is hoping he can have the same relationship with the supporters at Celtic after turning down offers from abroad and the Premier League, including one from Sunderland boss Allardyce. Cole said: "At this stage of my career I want a challenge, an opportunity to win things and have a great rapport with the fans like I did at West Ham. "People talk to me about what happened in January but that's way behind me now, I've got great memories with the West Ham fans and I will always appreciate the support they gave me. "I genuinely could have earned a lot more money from other offers I had in England and around the world but once you see what Celtic is all about then it's a no-brainer." Cole has been talking to Celtic boss Ronny Deila for the past few weeks as he looked to secure his long term future for his family and the rest of his career. He says a taxi journey during negotiations was a reminder of just how big Celtic is and he hopes to become a big hit like some big name strikers before him. Cole added: "I'm already beginning to feel part of the family here, yes it's a big family but everyone makes you feel wanted and part of something. "I'm really happy to have finally signed for Celtic, now I'm excited about the prospect of playing in front of 60,000 amazing fans. "I've spent a few weeks up here getting a feel for the club and passion of the fans. Because of that I feel ready for the challenge. "Celtic is a huge club, one of the biggest in the World, everyone in the city love football and want to talk about it. "I got in a taxi yesterday and the driver started talking to me about how much the club means to him and explaining the deep passion and connection the fans have. "That's why I'm here, I want to give everything for this club, I want to wear the shirt with pride and put all I've got on the line. "It has also been good to have some chats with Ronny Deila, he's told me what he wants from me and how he wants to play, we are developing a good relationship. "The lads have been brilliant, there's been plenty of banter in the changing room and they have been keen for me to join. "I feel rejuvenated, enthusiastic and exciting about pulling on the shirt and running out with the lads. "People have asked me about Lee Griffiths but he is a different player to me and hopefully we can play together and form a decent partnership. "We have a decent squad with players that can score goals from many positions, everyone knows that this club has to win things and I am happy to be part of it. I will give everything for this club and the fans."
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Leroy names Chelsea 'weakest link' and result!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in Leroy's Blogs, News, Whispers
C and H
John Terry arrives at the Boleyn tomorrow as the weak link in the Chelsea team for me.
Should he play it will be his 450th match for Jose Mourinho's side and it could become a nightmae because he's lost a lot of pace and we have that everywhere in this brilliant West Ham eam.
We find out tomorrow whether we are dreaming of a top four West Ham team or whether the results so far have been a flash in the pan so far. I don't think that's the case at all but I'd be even more confident of my predicted 2- 1 result were Winston Reid to be playing.
Chelsea have real problem and I was interested to read Hugh's report of Mourinho's prress conference today when the Chelsea boss looked as if e had the troubles of the world on his shoulders. That's all very good news.
I love too the way Slav has been so humble refusing to play on the current problems and talking him up as the great manager. It's non confrontational and clever before we go and give em a hiding!
In the privacy of the dressing room Slav will be telling the lads they will never have a better chance of beating Chelsea.
I'd love Victor Moses to be playing but in his absence the way is clear for Enner Valencia to return. He has plenty to prove and will be well up for this game.
If, as I expect, we come out of this game with three points we will have 20 before the end of October which is an amazing achievement.
I do think what we have been seeing is the real deal and that we are going to b atop four/six club this season but tomorrow will tell us an awful lot.
The home form is still a bit of a worry and this is the perfect game to get it right. We will see Chelsea having a lot of possession but they have plenty of problems at the back for me.
Quite apart from Terry's lack of pace, Zouma is quick but lacks anticipation and the keeper doesn't have the presence of several before him.
We will go out entirely relaxed and I am confident.
I expect a 2-1 and here's how I see the Irons lining up: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Ogbonna, Cresswell; Noble, Kouyate, Payt, Valencia, Lanzini, Sakho
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Lawrenson at it again
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
This really needs no comment from me other than to say that Mark Lawrenson's animosity towards West Ham is now beyond a joke. Having predicted our demise in virtually – if not every game this season – he is at it again ahead of the match against Chelsea tomorrow afternoon. Here's what TV's most miserable pundit has to say: Chelsea still beat Aston Villa last week, albeit without playing particularly well, and I see a similar outcome this time after what could be a horrible scrappy game. West Ham have only won one out of four games at home, compared to four out of five away, and I don't think they will get much joy out of trying to hit Chelsea on the break at Upton Park. Horrible scrappy game – "NURSE!!!"
Lawro's predicton 0-1
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CandH exclusive: DS speaks on takeover rumours
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan has responded angrily to rumours that the Hammers could be taken over and that secret talks are underway. The chairman – speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh – has quickly denied the stories following after his son Jack had tweeted there was a zero chance of it happening. An old story – recycled perhaps in the light of the club's present run of success – that the Qatari Royal Family are set to invest in the club – has been brushed off by Sullivan. We approached the chairman a few minutes ago and he was keen to explain the position and denied emphatically there was any truth in the speculation. He said: "It's 100 per cent NOT TRUE. We are in discussions with nobody and beyond that we have absolutely no desire to sell this club to anybody. " I can only assume the rumours are being spread by people who are jealous of our success and want to unsettle us. It's just not true."
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Costa could regret coming to Upton Park
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
By Scott Alsweiler
C and H
CostaWe've proved that we're no slouches, and last weekend was a great example of that. But we do look a bit fragile at home. This Saturday is our chance to show we've grown. The key to this one will be remaining calm.
Leroy has rightly pointed out that Terry looks vulnerable – and he'll look even more so under the probably withering chants from the stands – and our pace and maneuverability should rattle him very quickly. Once we've done that, and put one or even two into the net, I expect Chelsea's mental strength (which I believe to be already shaky) to collapse.
That isn't to say that they'll be a pushover. If they get in early, and look dominant, then the reverse could easily happen. Chelsea seem to be at something of a crossroads in their season. They could either recover and be a commanding force (albeit probably not title contenders), or collapse into the lower mid table for the season.
They may also be tired after their travels this week. All of this can play into our hands, if we go out confident and exploit any weaknesses. Mourinho's press conference suggests those weaknesses are there. A manager who fails to exude confidence will not impart it to his team.
We know Reid is out, and that our Ginger Pele is likely to start. You can't ever fault Collins on his heart. He plays with his entire being. But he does make mistakes, and those can be costly. Having said that I rather l look forward to watching Costa run into the big Welsh wall. If Collins is on his game, Costa might well regret coming to the Boleyn.
Our other missing man is Victor Moses. We're not exactly short of options here. I think Antonio deserves to play at least a sub role tomorrow, but would probably start Valencia. Let's see him back out there and try and re-ignite his partnership with Sakho.
While it would be his first run out since his injury it would be a great chance to have him prove his place in the squad. We know he has impressive talent, and his pace would fit well into Slav's setup.
So here's to it. Let the game flow naturally and don't feel pressured. That has probably been our biggest fault at home so far. We can, and should, win this one. A loss wouldn't wreck our season, but wouldn't be indicative of our quality either.
A draw wouldn't surprise me, but I think our expectations have grown beyond that. I'm going for a 2-1 win. 3-1 if we shock them early (and don't fade at the end of either half – a bad habit of ours in injury time). We are West Ham. And we're going to add another scalp to wall.
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Bilic keeps tabs on young defender
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic has sent scouts to regularly watch Croatian Under-21 centre-back Antonio Milic.
The youngster is well known to Hammers boss Slaven Bilic and his staff, having played for all of Croatia's junior sides up to Under-21 level.
And the Irons made it clear to ClaretandHugh that another central defender is very much on their shopping list a Jaes Collins reaches the veteran stage and is out of contract in the summer.
The Hammers boss sent spies to watch him against Club Brugge last weekend whom Milic only joined n January and has impressed since.
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Morrison's clumsy 'January' hint
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Ravel Morrison last night dropped a clumsy hint that he's back on his travels (aren't you glad we have Manu Lanzini!) After being an unused sub in Lazio's the Europa League clash he posted a one word tweet – "January" in the usual enigmatic style. He had been expected to play in the match against Rosenberg – from which Lazio emerged as 3-1 winners – but had apparently felt an injury the day before. Frustrated Morrison heard Lazio director Igli Tare explain how good he when he said: "We hadn't predicted so many changes to the line-up, but are forced to rotate the squad again today. "Morrison has undoubted quality and is world class, as well as being talked about and a little 'mad.' We really like him, but yesterday he had a fitness problem. "He was in the running to start in place of Stefano Mauri, but didn't train and as a precaution will be on the bench. Maybe he'll come on during the game."
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Farewell Boleyn: Mooro's final appearance
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
March 9, 1974! The last time Bobby Moore would wore the shirt of the club he joined as a schoolboy nearly 20 years before. The opposition that day was Plymouth Argyle in a reserve fixture played in front of a smattering of a crowd, while the first team were drawing away at Derby County. Perhaps an undignified way to end a career, having not appeared for the first team since a draw with Hereford United in the Cup at the Boleyn in the January. Hee would sign for Fulham six days after this picture was taken, returning just once – the next day – though to walk up the tunnel one more time and wave farewell to the fans before the first team lost 3-2 to Coventry. The empty North bank is the back drop for the picture. Underneath the refreshments sign was the entrance to the terracing from the concourse. I migrated from the Upper West to the North Bank in 1983 (still there to this day) and used to get my first sight of the pitch walking in under that sign. Bobby would finally bow out for good in 1977 away at Blackburn Rovers with a Fulham team including George Best in the side going down 1-0.
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Saturday, October 24
Friday, October 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd October 2015
From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Hello everyone,
It has been another busy week at Chadwell Heath.
We have two players who are not available for the weekend game against
Chelsea – Winston Reid and Alex Song.
The Chelsea game comes too early for Winston on Saturday. He is improving
and running again, but Winston has a few more boxes to tick before he can
resume team training.
Alex Song has done very well and has completed most of his training with the
rehab fitness coach. He will resume team training next week.
Joey O'Brien has trained for two weeks and will play for the Under-21s at
the Boleyn Ground on Monday.
Doneil Henry is continuing his rehabilitation and will resume team training
the first week of November.
Hopefully we can recover all the players before we head into the busy
Christmas period.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
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View on the Opposition - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Daily Mirror sports writer Neil McLeman lifts the lid on today's visitors
Chelsea
It's been a difficult few weeks for Chelsea, what have you made of events in
west London?
"It's been a bizarre start to the season and I don't think anyone could have
predicted what's gone on at Chelsea. It is very strange how quickly things
have spiralled and they look like a team without confidence. There is now a
belief that there hasn't been in previous Jose Mourinho teams that you can
get at them, they've lost their aura of invincibility.
"For Chelsea, playing away on Saturday might actually benefit them, to get
away from Stamford Bridge they'll be under much less pressure. We've seen a
lot of teams fare batter away from home – none more obviously than West
Ham."
What do you think has changed from last season to this; clearly they are
still the same quality players that won the league?
"I think there are a number of reasons. The best time to buy is from a
position of strength and I don't think they did well enough in the transfer
market. They bought Pedro from Barcelona but not much else. Also losing Petr
Cech was a bigger blow then they realised.
"Another factor is that Mourinho works his players very hard, last season he
didn't rotate too much so there are signs of burnout already. Added to that,
the off field situations with Eva Carneiro and other behind the scenes stuff
haven't helped either."
What with the World Cup and Copa America, they are a team full of
internationals who have played a lot of football over the last few seasons,
they also played on Tuesday evening. How important is that?
"Exactly, and it does take its toll. There's a lot of travel involved which
people don't consider. If you look at Cesc Fabregas for instance, he's is a
very old 28-year-old having been a regular since he was 17. He was
sensational last season and hasn't been the same, neither has Eden Hazard.
"I think top four will be a struggle. Manchester City, Manchester United,
Arsenal are looking good, then Tottenham are chasing. It's too early to
write them off but a couple more defeats and it'll be very difficult."
On the other hand, West Ham have made a great start to the season, it seems
like the West Ham Way is back?
"Certainly, they're playing good football and the players they've brought in
have really strengthened the squad. Dimitri Payet especially is clearly a
very special player, the fact he doesn't get in to the French squad shows
you how many good players they have."
You mentioned Dimitri Payet, he's a real enigmatic character isn't he?
"The first thing to say is that France have got great players in Morgan
Schneiderlin, Blaise Matuidi and Paul Pogba among others, he outspoken past
may count against him slightly. France aren't short of those maverick type
of players, if they did pick him I think they would have to pick the team
around him."
Having watched him excel Ligue Un, you're probably not surprised at how well
he's done for West Ham so far?
"Whenever foreign players come in to the Premier League, they have to adapt
to the physical nature. I think it's helped that Ligue Un is probably closer
to the Premier League than Serie A or La Liga, it's a very high tempo,
physical league. So that has definitely helped.
"He's also been helped by the fact that he wasn't a name that many people
knew about so there wasn't a great expectation on him. He's had a month or
two under the radar to settle in and now he's showing everyone what he can
do."
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Slaven Speaks - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Ahead of the Hammers clash with reigning champions Chelsea, manager Slaven
Bilic faced the media.
During his pre-match press conference, the boss answered questions on a
range of topics from maintaining their unbeaten run, facing Jose Mourinho to
Manuel Lanzini's instant impact.
How long do you think you can maintain your fantastic start to the season?
SB: "I don't know but we hope we can continue our good football for as long
as possible. At the moment we have a chance in every game. We are playing
good but we are realistically optimistic. On the one hand, we can improve in
most aspects but at the same time, this is the Premier League and every game
is difficult. All the opponents are top class."
How do you approach this game, given your form is it better to think of this
as an away game?
SB: "Well no, apart from two first halves against Leicester and Bournemouth
our performances have not been that bad. We have played some really good
stuff, but we have to be more patient when we play at home. We have that
patience away, and we scored goals at Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool
at the right times. We are trying to approach the game in the same way,
regardless of where we play."
Is this a good time to play Chelsea given they travelled to Ukraine in
midweek?
SB: "On the one hand it's a good time, we can't deny that. They haven't
started like we all expected them to do, and they don't have that
consistency, regarding that it's a good time to play them. But on the other,
it's a very dangerous time to play them. They are on their toes, they are
motivated. It is both.
"They played a really good game against Kiev, they were very solid, they
were like the old Chelsea of last year. Kiev is a very tough away game, a
long trip and a good team they played against. I watched that game of
course, I wasn't happy afterwards! They looked to me very good, very sharp
with great individuals."
How much are you looking forward to facing Jose Mourinho?
SB: "Well, yes, it's a big challenge for us. Not for me personally, it isn't
me versus Mourinho, it's West Ham v Chelsea. But it is a bit of a special
game because they are champions. You can easily say that he is the best
manager around, he's been doing it for his whole career, and he is
brilliant. I am looking forward to it to be fair."
You've scored 20 goals so far, the second highest in the League, how do you
rate your attacking options?
SB: "I am very happy, we are creating chances, we are playing good. Against
Palace we were very versatile, we kept the ball very well. The only thing I
would like us to do more is shoot, sometimes we wait too long to shoot. You
have to try your luck when you are in the right positions. Against Palace,
they were defending deep as a team and it was hard to create one-on-one
chances, so when we are 20 yards out we need to try.
"Our players are very dangerous when they shoot in training, that's the only
thing I would like us to do more."
What is the team news for Saturday's game?
SB: "Compared to the Palace game we are without Victor Moses of course, it's
a big blow for us but we knew that when we signed him. Winston Reid isn't
going to make it, the injury isn't major but he won't play. All others are
back available, Enner Valencia could start."
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Celtic sign striker Carlton Cole until 2017
By Richard Wilson
BBC Scotland
Carlton Cole turned down offers from other clubs to sign for Celtic, saying
the decision was a "no brainer". The former West Ham striker, 32, was a free
agent and attracted interest from England and abroad, but opted for Celtic
because of the size of the club.
Cole, who has seven England caps, is also keen to add further honours to his
career and win trophies with the Scottish champions.
"When Celtic called and said they wanted me, I just ran over," Cole said.
"Being at Celtic is not about the money, it's about wearing the shirt with
pride. "Celtic are in a great position to win trophies and I want to add
that to my career."
Cole, who had been training with Celtic in recent weeks, was part of
Chelsea's Premier League-winning squad in 2006 and a member of the West Ham
side that won the Championship play-off final in 2012. He has been without a
club since leaving Upton Park at the end of last season and also attracted
interest from the Middle East. Celtic are in Norway to face Molde in
Thursday's Europa League Group A match. Cole, who has also played for Wolves
and Charlton, will not be available for Celtic's European matches until the
new year but could make his debut domestically in the coming weeks.
Celtic's ambition to win domestic titles and compete in Europe attracted
Cole to Scotland. However, an injury suffered while on trial with the club
delayed his signing. He hopes to soon be fit enough to be in contention for
selection. "This is my first time living out of London, I haven't [lived]
above the Watford gap," the striker explained. "It's been a bit hard for me
to try to adjust when I've been anywhere, like when I went to Aston Villa on
loan, but I've been up here alone for the last two or three weeks and I've
settled in really well. The people of Glasgow are very welcoming and I've
had a great rapport from people. "I've already fitted in. The players have
taken to me well and I've taken to them. In the changing room there's a
great atmosphere and I wanted to be part of that. "[It's] the same I had at
West Ham, if you wear that shirt with pride, the fans take to you and you
get a good rapport with them. That's what I'm here for. "As soon as I came
here, I've had everybody explain to me, including the taxi man, how much the
club means to them. That's what I wanted to hear and hopefully I'll be a
hero to some."
Different player to Griffiths
Cole describes himself as a different type of striker to Leigh Griffiths,
whose prolific goalscoring has seen him become established as the
first-choice striker at Celtic. Deila's preference is a 4-2-3-1 shape, with
only one forward, but Cole is confident he can prove his worth and
contribute to the team, and he was inspired by the atmosphere he experienced
at Celtic Park during the recent 2-2 draw with Fenerbahce in the Europa
League. "I'm a different player to Leigh, he's a good, nippy player, scores
goals left, right and centre," Cole said. "I see myself as a bit more of a
powerhouse, occupying two or three defenders and getting on the end of
crosses. I see myself as trying to break open defences when they're tight
and locked. "[Ronny Deila] wanted me to be here. He knows it's a big move
for me, moving away from my family to another country. I see it as a great
opportunity, to be at such a big club. The staff have been brilliant towards
me and I've felt so welcome. "The Fenerbahce game was massive and that's the
first I've seen it roaring. The fans and the passion, they're the 12th man
really and that's what the club is about so that's why I wanted to signed
here."
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Shoot!
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has urged his players to be more daring in front of goal ahead
of this weekend's London derby with Chelsea. Bilic, speaking to the press
this morning ahead of Saturday's clash with Jose Mourinho's misfiring Blues
told his players to take risks if the opportunity presents itself. And
that's in stark contrast to his predecessor Sam Allardyce, who, rumour once
claimed, would fine his players for shooting from outside the penalty area.
"We are creating chances, we are playing well," he said. "Against Palace we
were very versatile, we kept the ball very well. "The only thing I would
like us to do more is shoot, sometimes we wait too long to shoot. You have
to try your luck when you are in the right positions. "Against Palace, they
were defending deep as a team and it was hard to create one-on-one chances,
so when we are 20 yards out we need to try. "Our players are very dangerous
when they shoot in training, that's the only thing I would like us to do
more."
For the first time in many years, West Ham go into the game several places
above Chelsea in the league and with six points more in the bag. However
Bilic is under no illusion as to the extent of the task that faces his
players. "On the one hand it's a good time [to play them], we can't deny
that," he mused. "They haven't started like we all expected them to do, and
they don't have that consistency.
"But on the other hand, it's a very dangerous time to play them. They are on
their toes, they are motivated. It is both. "They played a really good game
against Kiev, they were very solid, they were like the old Chelsea of last
year. Kiev is a very tough away game, a long trip and a good team. "I
watched that game of course, I wasn't happy afterwards! They looked to me
very good, very sharp with great individuals."
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Winston Reid out of Chelsea clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Winston Reid will not recover from injury in time to face Chelsea at the
Boleyn this weekend, says Slaven Bilic. The West Ham manager, speaking in
his pre-match press conference this morning confirmed that the Kiwi defender
will miss a second successive game, having sat out last weekend's 3-1 win at
Crystal Palace. And the Hammers will also be without the on-loan Victor
Moses, who is unable to feature against his parent club. "Compared to the
Palace game obviously we are without Victor Moses," confirmed Bilic. "He
can't play because he is a Chelsea player on loan. That's a big blow for us,
but we knew that from the moment we signed him. "Winston Reid isn't going
to make it for this game [either]. It's nothing major, but he will not play.
All the others are back. Enner Valencia was on the bench against Palace and
could start."
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'Welcomed' Cole signs two year deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Carlton Cole has signed a two year contract with Scottish Premier League
champions Celtic. The 32-year-old former Hammer had been training with the
Glasgow-based club for several weeks and finally agreed terms on a 24-month
deal, that ties him to the club until the summer of 2017, earlier this week.
Released by West Ham at the tail end of the 2014/15 campaign after nine
years at the Boleyn Ground, Cole had been without a club for five months.
"It's a big relief to sign and be a part of such a big club," Cole told a
press conference this lunchtime. "Being at Celtic is not about the money, it
is about the pride of wearing the shirt. "As soon as I arrived in Glasgow,
everyone has been telling me how much Celtic means to them. The manager
really wanted me here, I see this as a great opportunity to be at such a big
club, I have been made so welcome. "The club are in a great position to win
trophies, they are a family club as well. Celtic was a no brainer for me. I
didn't need advice from anyone to sign, look around the world from USA to
Australia - Celtic are everywhere."
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Slaven Bilic hails 'charismatic' Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and insists
people are jealous of him
22:30, 22 OCT 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The Blues visit Upton Park on Saturday eight places below the Hammers, but
Bilic believes the Chelsea boss is still the Premier League's top managerial
attraction
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has claimed all top managers need "charisma" - and Jose
Mourinho still has the most. And the West Ham manager insisted dislike of
the Special One stems from "jealousy". Chelsea visit Upton Park on Saturday
down in 12th place – eight spots below the high-flying Hammers – and with
Mourinho looking increasingly weary from battles inside and outside his
club. But Bilic has insisted the Portuguese "magnet" remains the Premier
League's biggest managerial attraction. "With his results, his charisma, he
is not boring," the Croat said. "He is anything but boring, for the media as
well, he is like a magnet. He is a top man. "Charisma is very important.
It's one of the most important things as a manager. As a leader. It is the
same to be the manager of a bank. You have to have a charisma, because you
are the leader - people are expecting you to be different and to be their
leader. "And you can't lose charisma, especially not him. He didn't lose it.
That is the one thing that he didn't change from the start until now. "Of
course he is not the same after a couple of wins or after a couple of
defeats - I'm not talking about that. "I am talking about long-term change
and he is the same as the day that we saw him on the telly when Porto got a
big win at Old Trafford. He is the same then as now. "He is unbelievable, he
is the biggest now. There are a few of them who are the best and it's only a
matter of taste who is the best."
Bilic, who revealed he received a surprise text from the Blues boss when he
got the Hammers job after only meeting him once, added: "The most successful
people, the most charismatic people, the No 1s, they are always polarising
people. "You love them or hate them. I am not trying to campaign to become a
president or Prime Minister of England. I am not talking about why the
people love him or hate him. But there's no chance that you don't respect
him and all that he has done. His CV is unbelievable. A big part of it is
jealousy."
Bilic has imposed in his own personality on his confident West Ham side with
the help of studying great leaders. "I like good biographies from the people
you know about," he said. "Let's say by Alex Ferguson, Van Gaal's book, or
for me books from the States about some big guys from NFL or basketball,
like Phil Jackson's. They are unbelievable books." Bilic said he also
learned from Chelsea's Champions League draw at Dinamo Kiev in midweek. "I
watched that game and wasn't happy afterwards because they looked to me
really good," he only half-joked. "They were like the old Chelsea from last
year. I see them finishing in the top four."
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic wary of "dangerous" Chelsea's return to form
ahead of Saturday's clash
12:00, 22 OCT 2015 UPDATED 12:04, 22 OCT 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The Hammers manager still thinks Jose Mourinho will steer the Blues to a
top-four finish despite their stuttering start
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has revealed he "wasn't happy" watching Chelsea's Champions
League draw this week because he reckons Jose Mourinho's side are showing
their old form. And the West Ham boss insisted the champions will still
finish in the top four this season. The Blues have suffered a stuttering
start to the season and trail down in 12th place. But before they visit
Upton Park on Saturday, Bilic said he saw evidence of the champions' usual
resilience during their midweek goalless draw at Dynamo Kiev. "It could be a
good time to play them but it could be a dangerous time to play them," said
the Croat. "They will be on their toes and motivated. They played a very
good game against Kiev. I was impressed. It was like back to the old Chelsea
we used to see regularly. "They looked solid, like the old Chelsea from last
year. They looked sharp. I watched the game and I wasn't happy! Some of the
players who had not been playing well looked good. They are Chelsea. "I see
still them finishing in the top four. They have done well the last couple of
games. They won against Aston Villa – it wasn't a beautiful game. "He (Jose
Mourinho) said afterwards they were getting back to basics. He didn't care
about ball possession and shots on target. He was pleased with the clean
sheet. Things are definitely going to change for them. I just hope not on
Saturday!" Asked to explain Chelsea's poor start to the season, Bilic
explained: "That shows how football is. It is strange, weird." On-loan
Victor Moses is not eligible to play against Chelsea while Winston Reid is
still out.
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Epic era ahead – ask an Irons legend
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in Hugh's Blogs, News,
Whispers
C and H
I've been an Iron long enough to know that at our worst we are the most
pessimistic people ever to walk the footballing planet.
It's entirely understandable. Like everyone else, I get it. High promise –
the most recent example being last year – is followed by an epic slide which
sees us again finding our usual level of disappointment. At our worst we
become cynical and bitter -we are capable of tearing each apart on social
media – but it's only because we care passionately about this club of ours.
As an old mate of mine said: "You change the missus before you change from
this club."
This time things are gonna be different. It's a tough old call to say that
after so many years of the 'Hammers experience' but I genuinely feel
something quite amazing is going on – something none of us, or the board
could have expected. And today one of our greatest defenders – Alvin Martin
– said it too on talkSPORT when he declared: ""I think they (West Ham) can
(stay in the Champions League spots)." "Listen, I know it's still early
days, but I really do believe they've got a lot of very good players at West
Ham now and if they can keep all those players fit they can challenge. "I've
spoken to the players there and they're really enjoying playing under Bilic,
it's looking very good for them."
Alvin is a seasoned old pro and a hard-nosed pundit – he doesn't come out
with such stuff as a rule and if he can be so up front in his predictions
then it really is time for all to start believing. The difference Slaven
Bilic has made over the first games is nothing less than amazing. The team
is growing and growing in confidence and it's not only based on results.
It's coming too from the style of football we are playing. Control and
possession is growing from match to match and the likes of Payet, Lanzini
and Moses – not to mention Sakho' – is scaring teams to death. In Payet we
have a player who the fans have taken to their hearts like no other in a
very long time. He is to us what Aguero, for example, is to Manchester City.
I can go way back to the sixties with West Ham and I'm gonna say this quite
boldly: This is as good an Irons squad as I can recall seeing. I don't see
us folding up or coming down with the Christmas decorations. In Slaven Bilic
we have a world class coach looking after some world class and very, very
good players. So let's get over ourselves and our past disappointments and
start to believe that we are entering a West Ham era which none of us have
ever seen before. These my friends are thrilling times.
COYI
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Song Chelsea update
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold's hopes that Alex Song will be fit for the Chelsea match this
weekend are set to be dashed. The chairman has given regular updates on the
midfielder's fitness and claimed that he should be ready for the Boleyn at
the weekend. Only three days ago in response to a follower on Twitter the
co-chairman declared: " @RyWard7 Alex Song is fit and raring to play. Dg
However, ClaretandHugh has discovered that the player is "highly unlikely"
to feature against the champions at the weekend. We have been told by a very
well placed source within the last few minutes: "Alex is very nearly ready
but it's highly unlikely he will feature this weekend."
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ExWHUemployee: "Let's sing this for Slav"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in ExWHUemployee's Blogs,
News, Whispers
C and H
I was chatting in the pub with my mate the other day discussing our
favourite West Ham matches/experiences and it brought me back to one of
mine. It was on the 14th April 1991 and it was the first "away" game I had
ever been to. This date forever sticks in my mind and I will never forget
it. Having beaten Everton 2-1 in the Quarter finals in a Stuart Slater (my
first ever favourite player) inspired performance we met Forest in the Semi
Final of the Cup at Villa Park. I travelled up to the game as an
impressionable 10 year old with my dad and six of his mates in a mini bus. I
remember them drinking many beers on board (thankfully the paid for a
driver) and singing chants and ringing a giant cow bell (don't ask!)
regularly.
We had booked into a hotel and watched the Spurs v Arsenal, the other
semi-final game before the match. This was the one where Gazza was brilliant
and scored a wonderful goal to help Spurs on their way to the final. So the
scene had been set for a West Ham v Spurs final, or so I thought. After much
more drinking at the hotel, by my dad and mates not me, we made our way to
the ground. At the ground another drunken man (not from out party) gave me a
flag to take to the match, which I still have to this day. I will never know
who that kind soul was but I still remember the moment so clearly.
We then made our way to the ground and of course we all know that referee
Keith Hackett ruined the match with a ridiculous decision when sending off
Tony Gayle and we lost 4-0. You would think this could have put me off being
a West Ham supporter, but it didn't – far from it. Even though we were 4-0
down we did not stop singing and chanting all game. The one chant that I can
remember so clearly was "Billy Bond's Claret and Blue Army" which rung out
constantly and for around 10 minutes in a row at one point.
Here is a small snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVcr-NghMGY. Having
initially thought we were signing Billy Bonds and Trevor Morley in tribute
to the forward who had just returned from being stabbed by his wife (another
random event associated to this match) I soon worked out that the chant was
purely for the manager.
Obviously Billy Bonds is an absolute club legend and is up there with the
greatest ever players of our club so this chant was as much for the player
as the manager but he was still extremely popular. When he was replaced by
Harry Redknapp that love for our manager (another ex player) seemed to
continue. After this the same feelings for our manager have not been fully
achieved since (apart from Trevor Brooking's brief spell in charge).
We have a new manager who also has played for the club and one who has
started his managerial spell in true style. The football we are playing and
the passion we are showing has already meant that this season is starting to
shape up to be one of the most exciting in many years. I know we currently
have the Super Slav chant for our man but I would love to us add "Slaven
Bilic's Claret and Blue Army" to our repertoire of chants and where better a
place to start it at the home game to Chelsea.
So let's get our voices ready and get this echoing out at the match and
continue it into the away games with the visit to Tottenham in November on
the horizon I would love to hear it loud and proud throughout the game and
many others!
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Slav's centre back dilemma
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
C and H
Angelo Ogbonna was un-used substitute last weekend despite seemingly
recovering from hamstring injury he suffered in the Newcastle 2-0 win at the
Boleyn Ground. Winston Reid is also expected to be available for selection
following his recovery after he came off in the 2-2 draw at Sunderland. The
Hammers' medical team explained Reid had been struggling for a while with a
minor injury, Stijn Vandenbroucke, West Ham's head of medical and sport
science, told the club's official website. "Winston came off in the game
against Sunderland, but we are positive for a recovery for the next game."
With both centre backs considered first choice fit, Bilic faces a dilemma
whether to stick or twist against Chelsea. Both James Tomkins and James
Collins had fantastic performances against Crystal Palace last weekend and
Bilic have been known to reward good performances and not change a winning
team. It is great position to be in with four in-form Premier League class
centre backs all competing for two places but not one we are used to at West
Ham. With such a quality squad it makes predicting Saturday's starting team
against Chelsea a difficult task and I don't envy Bilic's decision. If I
were take a punt I would imagine he will go for a Reid and Tomkins
partnership.
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Lanzini wants to stay!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News
C and H
Manuel Lanzini has made it clear he wants to stay at West Ham declaring:
"The West Ham fans are fantastic and I hope to be part of this new change
and to be on the pitch doing my job."
The 22 year old has made a brilliant start to his loan period and is looking
forward to life at the Olympuc Stadium adding: "I am playing football in one
of the best leagues in the world and I am really enjoying it. Speaking to
www.whufc.com he added: "Moving to the new Stadium is a big investment and
change for the club. Why can't we dream big? But I think we have to think
about the present first of all and carry on the path that we have been
taking. "When the team is doing well success eventually follows and we want
to achieve great things."
He added: "London is a beautiful city that I have always wanted to see and
learn about. It has got so much history and there are some wonderful sights
to see here. "I am able to do what I love so when I get to walk around the
City it is also fantastic. Settling in quickly has been very important for
me and having so many players who I can speak the same language with has
been a crucial factor. "These players have been a key part for me settling
in as well as the English players and everyone else in the group. I would
like to thank them for helping me. I have been learning to speak English and
hope to understand more soon."
Next up it;s Chelsea and Lanzini said: "I have never had the chance to play
against a team managed by Jose Mourinho but I am happy to be in the position
to play in such a big game knowing exactly what it means to the club. "I
know all the South American players at Chelsea by name and am very excited
about facing them and playing in such a big game. "I know it is very
important for us as we look to maintain our high position in the table. If
we carry on playing like we have been there is no reason why we cannot do
that. "Why cannot we beat Chelsea as well? We are always thinking big and
aiming high here and that is the main priority. "Slaven is a very good coach
and is able to transmit his ideas to the players very easily. He sets the
team up well for every match and as a group we always follow what he says.
"As you can see from the results that has been working very well and the
rest of the coaching staff have had a very good effect on the team."
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Irons worst kept secret is OUT!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in Hugh's Blogs, News,
Whispers
C and H
West Ham worst kept secret is out – Manu Lanzini will sign a deal that will
keep him at the club permanently at the end of the season. The deal will be
of probably five years with an option for another two on a wage of around
£40k a week – by current Premier League standards probably par for the
course. To quote one insider we spoke to over recent days: "It may look like
an expensive deal at the moment given an £8 million euro transfer fee but
the way this kid is going it could look very cheap at the end of the season.
"We have an unbreakable deal with his club but we don't have to rush to get
things done."
Indeed not but it will be done because so many heavy hints have been dropped
any secrecy that surrounded the deal has long gone. David Sullivan admitted
to the official site " We knew he was a fantastic player. Before he went to
the UAE he was regarded as the next Messi in Argentina Next day Lanzini told
the official site he wants to stay and be a a part of things next season. It
doesn't get much closer to a 'done deal' than that. The arrival of Dimi
Payet and Lanzini have naturally excited us fans more than anything else,
apart from the appointment of Slav. But let's not forget the hard graft put
in to get these deals concluded, the scouting system that's in place and the
way everybody is working together as the club grows and grows.
This time last year every one of us could have named the starting line up
for the weekend game – those days are gone and that's down to a remarkable
job being done by everybody frm the top downwards.
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Reshuffle as two miss Chelsea match
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Michail Antonio may get a one off chance to impress Slaven Bilic this
weekend despite – as we explained here last night – him being seen as a long
term prospect by the manager. However, with Victor Moses ineligible to play
against his parent club Chelsea this weekend, there's a possibility that the
£7 million player may play a part. However, he may find himself again
having to wait with Enner Valencia back in the frame having scored an
excellent goal in the under 21s 4-0 win over Wolves this weekend. And –
following associate editor Sean Whetstone's appraisal of the situation
involving the centre back positions – Slav has another dilemma to solve. For
according to West London Sport this morning, Winston Reid has been ruled out
of the game and this opens up the big question as to whether Angelo Ogbonna
returns or whether James Collins – after such an impressive game last
weekend will keep his place. These are problems we haven't had for a long
time and as things stand tight now nobody can call the outcome with any
certainty.
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Bilic: Mourinho is best around
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News
C and H
Slaven Bilic reckons Jose Mourinho is still the best manager around. The
self proclaimed Special One has had a seriously dodgy start to the season
who arrive at Upton park sitting in twelfth place. But Bilic claims it's
nothing more than a blip and believes the Portuguese will lead them into the
top four this season. Speaking ahead of the gae he said: "It's a big
challenge for us, it's a big test. It's a special game because they are the
champions. "And you can easily say he is the best manager around. He's been
doing it all his career, he's brilliant. He's Jose Mourinho! "It just shows
how strange football is. It's the same team, the champions. "I know Mourinho
and he's always motivated. His teams are always hungry and everyone expected
them, maybe not to be top after nine games, but not to be where they are
now. I watched most of their games. Sometimes you play the same way but you
hit the post and the opposition don't hit the post, when last year it
happened the other way round. "It doesn't have to be anything major. You
lose a couple of games – and from their point of view drawing is like losing
– and suddenly people say 'what happened to Chelsea?' but it's noth ing big
or major. "If it was he would be the first to change it, but sometimes it's
those invisible things you can't detect and you have to work hard to try to
change it. "Things will definitely change for them, we just hope it won't be
against us. I see them finishing in the top four."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
PATIENCE AND PORRIDGE
By Jo Phillips 22 Oct 2015 at 08:00
WTID
After that sweet victory at Crystal Palace, Bilic talked about patience and
the part it plays in our contrasting home and away games. He said the squad
had a greater understanding of the importance of patience away whereas at
home, there was an impatience to score quickly. The inference is that in a
rush to score goals, there's a greater chance of overlooking a more
strategic pass that might secure a goal rather than a hurried shot against
the bar.
Interesting, because patience – like kindness – is an under rated trait.
Probably because we think of patience as something passive not active. The
Oxford dictionary defines patience as calm endurance of hardship, annoyance,
inconvenience or delay. Or to put it another way, putting up with stuff
that's beyond our control. You know that feeling when you're stuck in a
queue of traffic or at a checkout, wondering if swapping lanes will change
the circumstances. Invariably it won't but what little patience we have left
is rapidly eroded by expecting instant access to everything. The microwave's
too slow, the broadband's too slow, that person in front of you is too slow
so it's hardly surprising that in front of a home crowd, West Ham players
know what we really want is for them to score goals.
Now I don't have one but I know from using other peoples' it takes longer to
make porridge in a microwave and creates a gluey mess that takes even longer
to clear up than gently stirring the oats and milk in a non stick saucepan.
You can sip a (large) glass of wine in the length of time it takes to make
perfect risotto on a hob which, along with the pleasant aroma of good
cooking makes for a far more rewarding experience than sticking something in
a microwave while you tweet twaddle to someone who's probably also waiting
for the ping.
Patience is what anglers, chess players, artists, writers, hunters and good
teachers have by the bucket load. Their patience is not passive, it's about
concentration, anticipation and the application of skill and training. If
that, and it certainly seems the case, is what Bilic is instilling in the
squad then it might just be the secret ingredient that makes the difference
between a good team and a great one.
The glory days of Man U and Arsenal were marked by apparently endless
patience, that ability to keep going, the ' calm endurance' as the
dictionary says and how many games did those teams win in the dying seconds
of a game? We've all seen West Ham concede two and three goal leads where it
was plain to see the players had nothing in reserve after scoring those
goals. Nothing to keep going, to be patient and wait for the next chance to
strike. I know Bilic is not the Messiah and we've had our bubbles of
optimism punctured too often but it does seem that he's brought a new
psychology to the team which makes for smarter play.
So, Mr B, as that overused phrase goes, keep calm and carry on.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Bilic believes Chelsea are nearing their best ahead of Upton
Park showdown
SLAVEN BILIC admits that watching Chelsea face Dinamo Kiev on Tuesday was
like viewing a horror movie as he saw signs that the troubled champions are
getting back to their old selves.
By MATTHEW DUNN
PUBLISHED: 11:15, Thu, Oct 22, 2015 | UPDATED: 11:36, Thu, Oct 22, 2015
Express.co.uk
West Ham have already got impressive results against Manchester City,
Arsenal and Liverpool this season and entertain Chelsea at Upton Park on
Saturday as a top-four side. With Chelsea struggling for form at the moment,
Bilic had hoped it was the perfect time to play them – although his mind was
changed during the course of the goalless draw in Kiev. "On one hand it is a
good time, you cannot deny it," he said. "They have not started like we were
all expecting them to and they don't have that consistency of last year or
year before. "On the other hand it is a very dangerous time to play them
because they are motivated and know they have to make some good results.
"They played a really good game against Kiev and looked solid, like the old
Chlesea. It is a tough trip to Kiev – I watched the game and I wasn't happy
afterwards. "They looked really sharp and some of the players who have not
been playing so well, played better. They are still Chelsea. They will still
finish in the top four. "It just shows you how football is strange or weird.
The same team, champions. Jose Mourinho is always motivated and his teams
are always hungry and everybody was expecting him, maybe not to be first
after nine games, but certainly not to be where they are now. "I have
watched most of their games and sometimes you play the same way only the
ball hits the post this year. It doesn't have to be much. Drawing is like
losing and suddenly after a couple of games they lose that five per cent of
confidence. "If it was something big or major he would be the first to
change it. But sometimes it is those invisible things that you cannot detect
quickly. They will come back – just hopefully not against us."
Bilic makes no apology for commenting on another team apart from his own –
he feels he cannot help it. "I don't think all the time about Chelsea but
you are bombed with information about them so you spend a bit of time
thinking about them," he said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Chelsea and West Ham striker Carlton Cole joins Scottish champions
Celtic
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Thursday, October 22, 2015
Celtic have signed former Chelsea and West Ham striker Carlton Cole. The
32-year-old was available on a free transfer after leaving Upton Park at the
end of last season. He joined the Scottish champions on trial at September
but suffered an injury to put a permanent deal on ice. However, Cole has now
returned to fitness and has penned a contract until the end of next season
with Ronny Deila's side.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
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WHUFC.com
Hello everyone,
It has been another busy week at Chadwell Heath.
We have two players who are not available for the weekend game against
Chelsea – Winston Reid and Alex Song.
The Chelsea game comes too early for Winston on Saturday. He is improving
and running again, but Winston has a few more boxes to tick before he can
resume team training.
Alex Song has done very well and has completed most of his training with the
rehab fitness coach. He will resume team training next week.
Joey O'Brien has trained for two weeks and will play for the Under-21s at
the Boleyn Ground on Monday.
Doneil Henry is continuing his rehabilitation and will resume team training
the first week of November.
Hopefully we can recover all the players before we head into the busy
Christmas period.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
View on the Opposition - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Daily Mirror sports writer Neil McLeman lifts the lid on today's visitors
Chelsea
It's been a difficult few weeks for Chelsea, what have you made of events in
west London?
"It's been a bizarre start to the season and I don't think anyone could have
predicted what's gone on at Chelsea. It is very strange how quickly things
have spiralled and they look like a team without confidence. There is now a
belief that there hasn't been in previous Jose Mourinho teams that you can
get at them, they've lost their aura of invincibility.
"For Chelsea, playing away on Saturday might actually benefit them, to get
away from Stamford Bridge they'll be under much less pressure. We've seen a
lot of teams fare batter away from home – none more obviously than West
Ham."
What do you think has changed from last season to this; clearly they are
still the same quality players that won the league?
"I think there are a number of reasons. The best time to buy is from a
position of strength and I don't think they did well enough in the transfer
market. They bought Pedro from Barcelona but not much else. Also losing Petr
Cech was a bigger blow then they realised.
"Another factor is that Mourinho works his players very hard, last season he
didn't rotate too much so there are signs of burnout already. Added to that,
the off field situations with Eva Carneiro and other behind the scenes stuff
haven't helped either."
What with the World Cup and Copa America, they are a team full of
internationals who have played a lot of football over the last few seasons,
they also played on Tuesday evening. How important is that?
"Exactly, and it does take its toll. There's a lot of travel involved which
people don't consider. If you look at Cesc Fabregas for instance, he's is a
very old 28-year-old having been a regular since he was 17. He was
sensational last season and hasn't been the same, neither has Eden Hazard.
"I think top four will be a struggle. Manchester City, Manchester United,
Arsenal are looking good, then Tottenham are chasing. It's too early to
write them off but a couple more defeats and it'll be very difficult."
On the other hand, West Ham have made a great start to the season, it seems
like the West Ham Way is back?
"Certainly, they're playing good football and the players they've brought in
have really strengthened the squad. Dimitri Payet especially is clearly a
very special player, the fact he doesn't get in to the French squad shows
you how many good players they have."
You mentioned Dimitri Payet, he's a real enigmatic character isn't he?
"The first thing to say is that France have got great players in Morgan
Schneiderlin, Blaise Matuidi and Paul Pogba among others, he outspoken past
may count against him slightly. France aren't short of those maverick type
of players, if they did pick him I think they would have to pick the team
around him."
Having watched him excel Ligue Un, you're probably not surprised at how well
he's done for West Ham so far?
"Whenever foreign players come in to the Premier League, they have to adapt
to the physical nature. I think it's helped that Ligue Un is probably closer
to the Premier League than Serie A or La Liga, it's a very high tempo,
physical league. So that has definitely helped.
"He's also been helped by the fact that he wasn't a name that many people
knew about so there wasn't a great expectation on him. He's had a month or
two under the radar to settle in and now he's showing everyone what he can
do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Speaks - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Ahead of the Hammers clash with reigning champions Chelsea, manager Slaven
Bilic faced the media.
During his pre-match press conference, the boss answered questions on a
range of topics from maintaining their unbeaten run, facing Jose Mourinho to
Manuel Lanzini's instant impact.
How long do you think you can maintain your fantastic start to the season?
SB: "I don't know but we hope we can continue our good football for as long
as possible. At the moment we have a chance in every game. We are playing
good but we are realistically optimistic. On the one hand, we can improve in
most aspects but at the same time, this is the Premier League and every game
is difficult. All the opponents are top class."
How do you approach this game, given your form is it better to think of this
as an away game?
SB: "Well no, apart from two first halves against Leicester and Bournemouth
our performances have not been that bad. We have played some really good
stuff, but we have to be more patient when we play at home. We have that
patience away, and we scored goals at Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool
at the right times. We are trying to approach the game in the same way,
regardless of where we play."
Is this a good time to play Chelsea given they travelled to Ukraine in
midweek?
SB: "On the one hand it's a good time, we can't deny that. They haven't
started like we all expected them to do, and they don't have that
consistency, regarding that it's a good time to play them. But on the other,
it's a very dangerous time to play them. They are on their toes, they are
motivated. It is both.
"They played a really good game against Kiev, they were very solid, they
were like the old Chelsea of last year. Kiev is a very tough away game, a
long trip and a good team they played against. I watched that game of
course, I wasn't happy afterwards! They looked to me very good, very sharp
with great individuals."
How much are you looking forward to facing Jose Mourinho?
SB: "Well, yes, it's a big challenge for us. Not for me personally, it isn't
me versus Mourinho, it's West Ham v Chelsea. But it is a bit of a special
game because they are champions. You can easily say that he is the best
manager around, he's been doing it for his whole career, and he is
brilliant. I am looking forward to it to be fair."
You've scored 20 goals so far, the second highest in the League, how do you
rate your attacking options?
SB: "I am very happy, we are creating chances, we are playing good. Against
Palace we were very versatile, we kept the ball very well. The only thing I
would like us to do more is shoot, sometimes we wait too long to shoot. You
have to try your luck when you are in the right positions. Against Palace,
they were defending deep as a team and it was hard to create one-on-one
chances, so when we are 20 yards out we need to try.
"Our players are very dangerous when they shoot in training, that's the only
thing I would like us to do more."
What is the team news for Saturday's game?
SB: "Compared to the Palace game we are without Victor Moses of course, it's
a big blow for us but we knew that when we signed him. Winston Reid isn't
going to make it, the injury isn't major but he won't play. All others are
back available, Enner Valencia could start."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Celtic sign striker Carlton Cole until 2017
By Richard Wilson
BBC Scotland
Carlton Cole turned down offers from other clubs to sign for Celtic, saying
the decision was a "no brainer". The former West Ham striker, 32, was a free
agent and attracted interest from England and abroad, but opted for Celtic
because of the size of the club.
Cole, who has seven England caps, is also keen to add further honours to his
career and win trophies with the Scottish champions.
"When Celtic called and said they wanted me, I just ran over," Cole said.
"Being at Celtic is not about the money, it's about wearing the shirt with
pride. "Celtic are in a great position to win trophies and I want to add
that to my career."
Cole, who had been training with Celtic in recent weeks, was part of
Chelsea's Premier League-winning squad in 2006 and a member of the West Ham
side that won the Championship play-off final in 2012. He has been without a
club since leaving Upton Park at the end of last season and also attracted
interest from the Middle East. Celtic are in Norway to face Molde in
Thursday's Europa League Group A match. Cole, who has also played for Wolves
and Charlton, will not be available for Celtic's European matches until the
new year but could make his debut domestically in the coming weeks.
Celtic's ambition to win domestic titles and compete in Europe attracted
Cole to Scotland. However, an injury suffered while on trial with the club
delayed his signing. He hopes to soon be fit enough to be in contention for
selection. "This is my first time living out of London, I haven't [lived]
above the Watford gap," the striker explained. "It's been a bit hard for me
to try to adjust when I've been anywhere, like when I went to Aston Villa on
loan, but I've been up here alone for the last two or three weeks and I've
settled in really well. The people of Glasgow are very welcoming and I've
had a great rapport from people. "I've already fitted in. The players have
taken to me well and I've taken to them. In the changing room there's a
great atmosphere and I wanted to be part of that. "[It's] the same I had at
West Ham, if you wear that shirt with pride, the fans take to you and you
get a good rapport with them. That's what I'm here for. "As soon as I came
here, I've had everybody explain to me, including the taxi man, how much the
club means to them. That's what I wanted to hear and hopefully I'll be a
hero to some."
Different player to Griffiths
Cole describes himself as a different type of striker to Leigh Griffiths,
whose prolific goalscoring has seen him become established as the
first-choice striker at Celtic. Deila's preference is a 4-2-3-1 shape, with
only one forward, but Cole is confident he can prove his worth and
contribute to the team, and he was inspired by the atmosphere he experienced
at Celtic Park during the recent 2-2 draw with Fenerbahce in the Europa
League. "I'm a different player to Leigh, he's a good, nippy player, scores
goals left, right and centre," Cole said. "I see myself as a bit more of a
powerhouse, occupying two or three defenders and getting on the end of
crosses. I see myself as trying to break open defences when they're tight
and locked. "[Ronny Deila] wanted me to be here. He knows it's a big move
for me, moving away from my family to another country. I see it as a great
opportunity, to be at such a big club. The staff have been brilliant towards
me and I've felt so welcome. "The Fenerbahce game was massive and that's the
first I've seen it roaring. The fans and the passion, they're the 12th man
really and that's what the club is about so that's why I wanted to signed
here."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Shoot!
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has urged his players to be more daring in front of goal ahead
of this weekend's London derby with Chelsea. Bilic, speaking to the press
this morning ahead of Saturday's clash with Jose Mourinho's misfiring Blues
told his players to take risks if the opportunity presents itself. And
that's in stark contrast to his predecessor Sam Allardyce, who, rumour once
claimed, would fine his players for shooting from outside the penalty area.
"We are creating chances, we are playing well," he said. "Against Palace we
were very versatile, we kept the ball very well. "The only thing I would
like us to do more is shoot, sometimes we wait too long to shoot. You have
to try your luck when you are in the right positions. "Against Palace, they
were defending deep as a team and it was hard to create one-on-one chances,
so when we are 20 yards out we need to try. "Our players are very dangerous
when they shoot in training, that's the only thing I would like us to do
more."
For the first time in many years, West Ham go into the game several places
above Chelsea in the league and with six points more in the bag. However
Bilic is under no illusion as to the extent of the task that faces his
players. "On the one hand it's a good time [to play them], we can't deny
that," he mused. "They haven't started like we all expected them to do, and
they don't have that consistency.
"But on the other hand, it's a very dangerous time to play them. They are on
their toes, they are motivated. It is both. "They played a really good game
against Kiev, they were very solid, they were like the old Chelsea of last
year. Kiev is a very tough away game, a long trip and a good team. "I
watched that game of course, I wasn't happy afterwards! They looked to me
very good, very sharp with great individuals."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Winston Reid out of Chelsea clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Winston Reid will not recover from injury in time to face Chelsea at the
Boleyn this weekend, says Slaven Bilic. The West Ham manager, speaking in
his pre-match press conference this morning confirmed that the Kiwi defender
will miss a second successive game, having sat out last weekend's 3-1 win at
Crystal Palace. And the Hammers will also be without the on-loan Victor
Moses, who is unable to feature against his parent club. "Compared to the
Palace game obviously we are without Victor Moses," confirmed Bilic. "He
can't play because he is a Chelsea player on loan. That's a big blow for us,
but we knew that from the moment we signed him. "Winston Reid isn't going
to make it for this game [either]. It's nothing major, but he will not play.
All the others are back. Enner Valencia was on the bench against Palace and
could start."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Welcomed' Cole signs two year deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 22nd October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Carlton Cole has signed a two year contract with Scottish Premier League
champions Celtic. The 32-year-old former Hammer had been training with the
Glasgow-based club for several weeks and finally agreed terms on a 24-month
deal, that ties him to the club until the summer of 2017, earlier this week.
Released by West Ham at the tail end of the 2014/15 campaign after nine
years at the Boleyn Ground, Cole had been without a club for five months.
"It's a big relief to sign and be a part of such a big club," Cole told a
press conference this lunchtime. "Being at Celtic is not about the money, it
is about the pride of wearing the shirt. "As soon as I arrived in Glasgow,
everyone has been telling me how much Celtic means to them. The manager
really wanted me here, I see this as a great opportunity to be at such a big
club, I have been made so welcome. "The club are in a great position to win
trophies, they are a family club as well. Celtic was a no brainer for me. I
didn't need advice from anyone to sign, look around the world from USA to
Australia - Celtic are everywhere."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic hails 'charismatic' Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and insists
people are jealous of him
22:30, 22 OCT 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The Blues visit Upton Park on Saturday eight places below the Hammers, but
Bilic believes the Chelsea boss is still the Premier League's top managerial
attraction
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has claimed all top managers need "charisma" - and Jose
Mourinho still has the most. And the West Ham manager insisted dislike of
the Special One stems from "jealousy". Chelsea visit Upton Park on Saturday
down in 12th place – eight spots below the high-flying Hammers – and with
Mourinho looking increasingly weary from battles inside and outside his
club. But Bilic has insisted the Portuguese "magnet" remains the Premier
League's biggest managerial attraction. "With his results, his charisma, he
is not boring," the Croat said. "He is anything but boring, for the media as
well, he is like a magnet. He is a top man. "Charisma is very important.
It's one of the most important things as a manager. As a leader. It is the
same to be the manager of a bank. You have to have a charisma, because you
are the leader - people are expecting you to be different and to be their
leader. "And you can't lose charisma, especially not him. He didn't lose it.
That is the one thing that he didn't change from the start until now. "Of
course he is not the same after a couple of wins or after a couple of
defeats - I'm not talking about that. "I am talking about long-term change
and he is the same as the day that we saw him on the telly when Porto got a
big win at Old Trafford. He is the same then as now. "He is unbelievable, he
is the biggest now. There are a few of them who are the best and it's only a
matter of taste who is the best."
Bilic, who revealed he received a surprise text from the Blues boss when he
got the Hammers job after only meeting him once, added: "The most successful
people, the most charismatic people, the No 1s, they are always polarising
people. "You love them or hate them. I am not trying to campaign to become a
president or Prime Minister of England. I am not talking about why the
people love him or hate him. But there's no chance that you don't respect
him and all that he has done. His CV is unbelievable. A big part of it is
jealousy."
Bilic has imposed in his own personality on his confident West Ham side with
the help of studying great leaders. "I like good biographies from the people
you know about," he said. "Let's say by Alex Ferguson, Van Gaal's book, or
for me books from the States about some big guys from NFL or basketball,
like Phil Jackson's. They are unbelievable books." Bilic said he also
learned from Chelsea's Champions League draw at Dinamo Kiev in midweek. "I
watched that game and wasn't happy afterwards because they looked to me
really good," he only half-joked. "They were like the old Chelsea from last
year. I see them finishing in the top four."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic wary of "dangerous" Chelsea's return to form
ahead of Saturday's clash
12:00, 22 OCT 2015 UPDATED 12:04, 22 OCT 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The Hammers manager still thinks Jose Mourinho will steer the Blues to a
top-four finish despite their stuttering start
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has revealed he "wasn't happy" watching Chelsea's Champions
League draw this week because he reckons Jose Mourinho's side are showing
their old form. And the West Ham boss insisted the champions will still
finish in the top four this season. The Blues have suffered a stuttering
start to the season and trail down in 12th place. But before they visit
Upton Park on Saturday, Bilic said he saw evidence of the champions' usual
resilience during their midweek goalless draw at Dynamo Kiev. "It could be a
good time to play them but it could be a dangerous time to play them," said
the Croat. "They will be on their toes and motivated. They played a very
good game against Kiev. I was impressed. It was like back to the old Chelsea
we used to see regularly. "They looked solid, like the old Chelsea from last
year. They looked sharp. I watched the game and I wasn't happy! Some of the
players who had not been playing well looked good. They are Chelsea. "I see
still them finishing in the top four. They have done well the last couple of
games. They won against Aston Villa – it wasn't a beautiful game. "He (Jose
Mourinho) said afterwards they were getting back to basics. He didn't care
about ball possession and shots on target. He was pleased with the clean
sheet. Things are definitely going to change for them. I just hope not on
Saturday!" Asked to explain Chelsea's poor start to the season, Bilic
explained: "That shows how football is. It is strange, weird." On-loan
Victor Moses is not eligible to play against Chelsea while Winston Reid is
still out.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Epic era ahead – ask an Irons legend
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in Hugh's Blogs, News,
Whispers
C and H
I've been an Iron long enough to know that at our worst we are the most
pessimistic people ever to walk the footballing planet.
It's entirely understandable. Like everyone else, I get it. High promise –
the most recent example being last year – is followed by an epic slide which
sees us again finding our usual level of disappointment. At our worst we
become cynical and bitter -we are capable of tearing each apart on social
media – but it's only because we care passionately about this club of ours.
As an old mate of mine said: "You change the missus before you change from
this club."
This time things are gonna be different. It's a tough old call to say that
after so many years of the 'Hammers experience' but I genuinely feel
something quite amazing is going on – something none of us, or the board
could have expected. And today one of our greatest defenders – Alvin Martin
– said it too on talkSPORT when he declared: ""I think they (West Ham) can
(stay in the Champions League spots)." "Listen, I know it's still early
days, but I really do believe they've got a lot of very good players at West
Ham now and if they can keep all those players fit they can challenge. "I've
spoken to the players there and they're really enjoying playing under Bilic,
it's looking very good for them."
Alvin is a seasoned old pro and a hard-nosed pundit – he doesn't come out
with such stuff as a rule and if he can be so up front in his predictions
then it really is time for all to start believing. The difference Slaven
Bilic has made over the first games is nothing less than amazing. The team
is growing and growing in confidence and it's not only based on results.
It's coming too from the style of football we are playing. Control and
possession is growing from match to match and the likes of Payet, Lanzini
and Moses – not to mention Sakho' – is scaring teams to death. In Payet we
have a player who the fans have taken to their hearts like no other in a
very long time. He is to us what Aguero, for example, is to Manchester City.
I can go way back to the sixties with West Ham and I'm gonna say this quite
boldly: This is as good an Irons squad as I can recall seeing. I don't see
us folding up or coming down with the Christmas decorations. In Slaven Bilic
we have a world class coach looking after some world class and very, very
good players. So let's get over ourselves and our past disappointments and
start to believe that we are entering a West Ham era which none of us have
ever seen before. These my friends are thrilling times.
COYI
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Song Chelsea update
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold's hopes that Alex Song will be fit for the Chelsea match this
weekend are set to be dashed. The chairman has given regular updates on the
midfielder's fitness and claimed that he should be ready for the Boleyn at
the weekend. Only three days ago in response to a follower on Twitter the
co-chairman declared: " @RyWard7 Alex Song is fit and raring to play. Dg
However, ClaretandHugh has discovered that the player is "highly unlikely"
to feature against the champions at the weekend. We have been told by a very
well placed source within the last few minutes: "Alex is very nearly ready
but it's highly unlikely he will feature this weekend."
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ExWHUemployee: "Let's sing this for Slav"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in ExWHUemployee's Blogs,
News, Whispers
C and H
I was chatting in the pub with my mate the other day discussing our
favourite West Ham matches/experiences and it brought me back to one of
mine. It was on the 14th April 1991 and it was the first "away" game I had
ever been to. This date forever sticks in my mind and I will never forget
it. Having beaten Everton 2-1 in the Quarter finals in a Stuart Slater (my
first ever favourite player) inspired performance we met Forest in the Semi
Final of the Cup at Villa Park. I travelled up to the game as an
impressionable 10 year old with my dad and six of his mates in a mini bus. I
remember them drinking many beers on board (thankfully the paid for a
driver) and singing chants and ringing a giant cow bell (don't ask!)
regularly.
We had booked into a hotel and watched the Spurs v Arsenal, the other
semi-final game before the match. This was the one where Gazza was brilliant
and scored a wonderful goal to help Spurs on their way to the final. So the
scene had been set for a West Ham v Spurs final, or so I thought. After much
more drinking at the hotel, by my dad and mates not me, we made our way to
the ground. At the ground another drunken man (not from out party) gave me a
flag to take to the match, which I still have to this day. I will never know
who that kind soul was but I still remember the moment so clearly.
We then made our way to the ground and of course we all know that referee
Keith Hackett ruined the match with a ridiculous decision when sending off
Tony Gayle and we lost 4-0. You would think this could have put me off being
a West Ham supporter, but it didn't – far from it. Even though we were 4-0
down we did not stop singing and chanting all game. The one chant that I can
remember so clearly was "Billy Bond's Claret and Blue Army" which rung out
constantly and for around 10 minutes in a row at one point.
Here is a small snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVcr-NghMGY. Having
initially thought we were signing Billy Bonds and Trevor Morley in tribute
to the forward who had just returned from being stabbed by his wife (another
random event associated to this match) I soon worked out that the chant was
purely for the manager.
Obviously Billy Bonds is an absolute club legend and is up there with the
greatest ever players of our club so this chant was as much for the player
as the manager but he was still extremely popular. When he was replaced by
Harry Redknapp that love for our manager (another ex player) seemed to
continue. After this the same feelings for our manager have not been fully
achieved since (apart from Trevor Brooking's brief spell in charge).
We have a new manager who also has played for the club and one who has
started his managerial spell in true style. The football we are playing and
the passion we are showing has already meant that this season is starting to
shape up to be one of the most exciting in many years. I know we currently
have the Super Slav chant for our man but I would love to us add "Slaven
Bilic's Claret and Blue Army" to our repertoire of chants and where better a
place to start it at the home game to Chelsea.
So let's get our voices ready and get this echoing out at the match and
continue it into the away games with the visit to Tottenham in November on
the horizon I would love to hear it loud and proud throughout the game and
many others!
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Slav's centre back dilemma
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
C and H
Angelo Ogbonna was un-used substitute last weekend despite seemingly
recovering from hamstring injury he suffered in the Newcastle 2-0 win at the
Boleyn Ground. Winston Reid is also expected to be available for selection
following his recovery after he came off in the 2-2 draw at Sunderland. The
Hammers' medical team explained Reid had been struggling for a while with a
minor injury, Stijn Vandenbroucke, West Ham's head of medical and sport
science, told the club's official website. "Winston came off in the game
against Sunderland, but we are positive for a recovery for the next game."
With both centre backs considered first choice fit, Bilic faces a dilemma
whether to stick or twist against Chelsea. Both James Tomkins and James
Collins had fantastic performances against Crystal Palace last weekend and
Bilic have been known to reward good performances and not change a winning
team. It is great position to be in with four in-form Premier League class
centre backs all competing for two places but not one we are used to at West
Ham. With such a quality squad it makes predicting Saturday's starting team
against Chelsea a difficult task and I don't envy Bilic's decision. If I
were take a punt I would imagine he will go for a Reid and Tomkins
partnership.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini wants to stay!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News
C and H
Manuel Lanzini has made it clear he wants to stay at West Ham declaring:
"The West Ham fans are fantastic and I hope to be part of this new change
and to be on the pitch doing my job."
The 22 year old has made a brilliant start to his loan period and is looking
forward to life at the Olympuc Stadium adding: "I am playing football in one
of the best leagues in the world and I am really enjoying it. Speaking to
www.whufc.com he added: "Moving to the new Stadium is a big investment and
change for the club. Why can't we dream big? But I think we have to think
about the present first of all and carry on the path that we have been
taking. "When the team is doing well success eventually follows and we want
to achieve great things."
He added: "London is a beautiful city that I have always wanted to see and
learn about. It has got so much history and there are some wonderful sights
to see here. "I am able to do what I love so when I get to walk around the
City it is also fantastic. Settling in quickly has been very important for
me and having so many players who I can speak the same language with has
been a crucial factor. "These players have been a key part for me settling
in as well as the English players and everyone else in the group. I would
like to thank them for helping me. I have been learning to speak English and
hope to understand more soon."
Next up it;s Chelsea and Lanzini said: "I have never had the chance to play
against a team managed by Jose Mourinho but I am happy to be in the position
to play in such a big game knowing exactly what it means to the club. "I
know all the South American players at Chelsea by name and am very excited
about facing them and playing in such a big game. "I know it is very
important for us as we look to maintain our high position in the table. If
we carry on playing like we have been there is no reason why we cannot do
that. "Why cannot we beat Chelsea as well? We are always thinking big and
aiming high here and that is the main priority. "Slaven is a very good coach
and is able to transmit his ideas to the players very easily. He sets the
team up well for every match and as a group we always follow what he says.
"As you can see from the results that has been working very well and the
rest of the coaching staff have had a very good effect on the team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons worst kept secret is OUT!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in Hugh's Blogs, News,
Whispers
C and H
West Ham worst kept secret is out – Manu Lanzini will sign a deal that will
keep him at the club permanently at the end of the season. The deal will be
of probably five years with an option for another two on a wage of around
£40k a week – by current Premier League standards probably par for the
course. To quote one insider we spoke to over recent days: "It may look like
an expensive deal at the moment given an £8 million euro transfer fee but
the way this kid is going it could look very cheap at the end of the season.
"We have an unbreakable deal with his club but we don't have to rush to get
things done."
Indeed not but it will be done because so many heavy hints have been dropped
any secrecy that surrounded the deal has long gone. David Sullivan admitted
to the official site " We knew he was a fantastic player. Before he went to
the UAE he was regarded as the next Messi in Argentina Next day Lanzini told
the official site he wants to stay and be a a part of things next season. It
doesn't get much closer to a 'done deal' than that. The arrival of Dimi
Payet and Lanzini have naturally excited us fans more than anything else,
apart from the appointment of Slav. But let's not forget the hard graft put
in to get these deals concluded, the scouting system that's in place and the
way everybody is working together as the club grows and grows.
This time last year every one of us could have named the starting line up
for the weekend game – those days are gone and that's down to a remarkable
job being done by everybody frm the top downwards.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reshuffle as two miss Chelsea match
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Michail Antonio may get a one off chance to impress Slaven Bilic this
weekend despite – as we explained here last night – him being seen as a long
term prospect by the manager. However, with Victor Moses ineligible to play
against his parent club Chelsea this weekend, there's a possibility that the
£7 million player may play a part. However, he may find himself again
having to wait with Enner Valencia back in the frame having scored an
excellent goal in the under 21s 4-0 win over Wolves this weekend. And –
following associate editor Sean Whetstone's appraisal of the situation
involving the centre back positions – Slav has another dilemma to solve. For
according to West London Sport this morning, Winston Reid has been ruled out
of the game and this opens up the big question as to whether Angelo Ogbonna
returns or whether James Collins – after such an impressive game last
weekend will keep his place. These are problems we haven't had for a long
time and as things stand tight now nobody can call the outcome with any
certainty.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic: Mourinho is best around
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 22, 2015 in News
C and H
Slaven Bilic reckons Jose Mourinho is still the best manager around. The
self proclaimed Special One has had a seriously dodgy start to the season
who arrive at Upton park sitting in twelfth place. But Bilic claims it's
nothing more than a blip and believes the Portuguese will lead them into the
top four this season. Speaking ahead of the gae he said: "It's a big
challenge for us, it's a big test. It's a special game because they are the
champions. "And you can easily say he is the best manager around. He's been
doing it all his career, he's brilliant. He's Jose Mourinho! "It just shows
how strange football is. It's the same team, the champions. "I know Mourinho
and he's always motivated. His teams are always hungry and everyone expected
them, maybe not to be top after nine games, but not to be where they are
now. I watched most of their games. Sometimes you play the same way but you
hit the post and the opposition don't hit the post, when last year it
happened the other way round. "It doesn't have to be anything major. You
lose a couple of games – and from their point of view drawing is like losing
– and suddenly people say 'what happened to Chelsea?' but it's noth ing big
or major. "If it was he would be the first to change it, but sometimes it's
those invisible things you can't detect and you have to work hard to try to
change it. "Things will definitely change for them, we just hope it won't be
against us. I see them finishing in the top four."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
PATIENCE AND PORRIDGE
By Jo Phillips 22 Oct 2015 at 08:00
WTID
After that sweet victory at Crystal Palace, Bilic talked about patience and
the part it plays in our contrasting home and away games. He said the squad
had a greater understanding of the importance of patience away whereas at
home, there was an impatience to score quickly. The inference is that in a
rush to score goals, there's a greater chance of overlooking a more
strategic pass that might secure a goal rather than a hurried shot against
the bar.
Interesting, because patience – like kindness – is an under rated trait.
Probably because we think of patience as something passive not active. The
Oxford dictionary defines patience as calm endurance of hardship, annoyance,
inconvenience or delay. Or to put it another way, putting up with stuff
that's beyond our control. You know that feeling when you're stuck in a
queue of traffic or at a checkout, wondering if swapping lanes will change
the circumstances. Invariably it won't but what little patience we have left
is rapidly eroded by expecting instant access to everything. The microwave's
too slow, the broadband's too slow, that person in front of you is too slow
so it's hardly surprising that in front of a home crowd, West Ham players
know what we really want is for them to score goals.
Now I don't have one but I know from using other peoples' it takes longer to
make porridge in a microwave and creates a gluey mess that takes even longer
to clear up than gently stirring the oats and milk in a non stick saucepan.
You can sip a (large) glass of wine in the length of time it takes to make
perfect risotto on a hob which, along with the pleasant aroma of good
cooking makes for a far more rewarding experience than sticking something in
a microwave while you tweet twaddle to someone who's probably also waiting
for the ping.
Patience is what anglers, chess players, artists, writers, hunters and good
teachers have by the bucket load. Their patience is not passive, it's about
concentration, anticipation and the application of skill and training. If
that, and it certainly seems the case, is what Bilic is instilling in the
squad then it might just be the secret ingredient that makes the difference
between a good team and a great one.
The glory days of Man U and Arsenal were marked by apparently endless
patience, that ability to keep going, the ' calm endurance' as the
dictionary says and how many games did those teams win in the dying seconds
of a game? We've all seen West Ham concede two and three goal leads where it
was plain to see the players had nothing in reserve after scoring those
goals. Nothing to keep going, to be patient and wait for the next chance to
strike. I know Bilic is not the Messiah and we've had our bubbles of
optimism punctured too often but it does seem that he's brought a new
psychology to the team which makes for smarter play.
So, Mr B, as that overused phrase goes, keep calm and carry on.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Bilic believes Chelsea are nearing their best ahead of Upton
Park showdown
SLAVEN BILIC admits that watching Chelsea face Dinamo Kiev on Tuesday was
like viewing a horror movie as he saw signs that the troubled champions are
getting back to their old selves.
By MATTHEW DUNN
PUBLISHED: 11:15, Thu, Oct 22, 2015 | UPDATED: 11:36, Thu, Oct 22, 2015
Express.co.uk
West Ham have already got impressive results against Manchester City,
Arsenal and Liverpool this season and entertain Chelsea at Upton Park on
Saturday as a top-four side. With Chelsea struggling for form at the moment,
Bilic had hoped it was the perfect time to play them – although his mind was
changed during the course of the goalless draw in Kiev. "On one hand it is a
good time, you cannot deny it," he said. "They have not started like we were
all expecting them to and they don't have that consistency of last year or
year before. "On the other hand it is a very dangerous time to play them
because they are motivated and know they have to make some good results.
"They played a really good game against Kiev and looked solid, like the old
Chlesea. It is a tough trip to Kiev – I watched the game and I wasn't happy
afterwards. "They looked really sharp and some of the players who have not
been playing so well, played better. They are still Chelsea. They will still
finish in the top four. "It just shows you how football is strange or weird.
The same team, champions. Jose Mourinho is always motivated and his teams
are always hungry and everybody was expecting him, maybe not to be first
after nine games, but certainly not to be where they are now. "I have
watched most of their games and sometimes you play the same way only the
ball hits the post this year. It doesn't have to be much. Drawing is like
losing and suddenly after a couple of games they lose that five per cent of
confidence. "If it was something big or major he would be the first to
change it. But sometimes it is those invisible things that you cannot detect
quickly. They will come back – just hopefully not against us."
Bilic makes no apology for commenting on another team apart from his own –
he feels he cannot help it. "I don't think all the time about Chelsea but
you are bombed with information about them so you spend a bit of time
thinking about them," he said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Chelsea and West Ham striker Carlton Cole joins Scottish champions
Celtic
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Thursday, October 22, 2015
Celtic have signed former Chelsea and West Ham striker Carlton Cole. The
32-year-old was available on a free transfer after leaving Upton Park at the
end of last season. He joined the Scottish champions on trial at September
but suffered an injury to put a permanent deal on ice. However, Cole has now
returned to fitness and has penned a contract until the end of next season
with Ronny Deila's side.
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Thursday, October 22
Daily WHUFC News - 22nd October 2015
West Ham United statement
WHUFc.com
Following a story published online on Tuesday evening which stated Tottenham
Hotspur could use the Boleyn Ground after West Ham have moved out,
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady would like to confirm that, as a condition of the
sale, she put a covenant on the ground which prevents any other football
club from using it as their home ground or playing matches there without the
express permission of West Ham United.
Therefore, this categorically rules out any other football team, including
Tottenham Hotspur, from using the ground to play football matches unless the
Board of West Ham United gives them permission to do so.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Meet Julian Dicks at the U21s game on Monday
WHUFC.com
Head down to the Boleyn Ground on Monday 26 October to see the next
generation of West Ham United stars in action – free of charge!
The Hammers' U21s are taking on Fulham in their latest U21 Premier League
fixture, with a 7pm kick-off at the Boleyn Ground.
The likes of Josh Cullen, Reece Oxford, Lewis Page, Martin Samuelsen and
Elliot Lee have all been in the first team picture this season and you could
see them under the famous lights as Terry Westley's men go for a second
successive win.
You can make a real night of it, as Julian Dicks will be in attendance at
the Stadium Store between 5-7pm for a meet and greet and signing session.
Turnstiles open at 6pm, so make sure you come along for a night of great
entertainment at the Boleyn Ground!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini - The West Ham fans are fantastic
WHUFC.com
It proved to be another busy summer of transfer activity at West Ham United
with 12 new signings arriving at the Boleyn Ground. Most of the focus
surrounded the capture of Dimitri Payet from Marseille and he has made an
immediate impact in the East End with a superb start to his Hammers career.
But another major factor behind the Club's impressive start has been the
arrival of Manuel Lanzini – even though he was not well known to the
majority of supporters. The Argentine forward arrived on a season-long loan
from Al Jazira and was determined to make a big impact in the Premier
League. Nicknamed 'The Jewell', the 22-year-old was a big target for Slaven
Bilic when he was manager of Besiktas last season, but the deal never
materialised.
Lanzini earned rave reviews during his spell in the UAE and the Hammers
manager was determined to bring him to the east London Club.
With the departures of Matt Jarvis and Kevin Nolan, Bilic showed his trust
in the talented attacker as he handed him a shock first-team start against
Liverpool at Anfield. Lanzini wasted no time repaying him by opening the
scoring after just three minutes and produced an impressive display as he
helped his side come away with a memorable 3-0 victory. Bilic had no doubts
he had the quality to compete at the highest level and he has cemented his
place in the first-team ever since and stole the show once again as he
helped the Hammers continue their sensational away record with a 3-1 win
over Crystal Palace last weekend.
Lanzini says he is relishing the chance to showcase his talents in the top
flight and hopes to play a major role for the east London Club when they
move into the new Stadium next summer. Lanzini said: "I am playing football
in one of the best leagues in the world and I am really enjoying it. "Moving
to the new Stadium is a big investment and change for the Club. The West Ham
fans are fantastic and I hope to be part of this new change and to be on the
pitch doing my job. "Why can't we dream big? But I think we have to think
about the present first of all and carry on the path that we have been
taking. "When the team is doing well success eventually follows and we want
to achieve great things."
Lanzini says the added attraction of living in London has been a major
factor for him and has felt at home since the opening day as the likes of
Enner Valencia, Mauro Zarate, Adrian and Pedro Obiang have all helped him
settle in. He added: "London is a beautiful city that I have always wanted
to see and learn about. It has got so much history and there are some
wonderful sights to see here. "I am able to do what I love so when I get to
walk around the City it is also fantastic. "Settling in quickly has been
very important for me and having so many players who I can speak the same
language with has been a crucial factor. "These players have been a key part
for me settling in as well as the English players and everyone else in the
group. I would like to thank them for helping me. I have been learning to
speak English and hope to understand more soon."
Lanzini has special praise for his manager and feels Bilic is getting the
best out of him since his arrival back in July. With the Hammers unbeaten in
their last six Premier League games, Lanzini is now looking forward to
testing himself against the Premier League champions on Saturday and hopes
to continue their amazing run against the big guns this season and come away
with another memorable victory. "I have never had the chance to play against
a team managed by Jose Mourinho but I am happy to be in the position to play
in such a big game knowing exactly what it means to the Club. "I know all
the South American players at Chelsea by name and am very excited about
facing them and playing in such a big game. "I know it is very important for
us as we look to maintain our high position in the table. If we carry on
playing like we have been there is no reason why we cannot do that. "Why
cannot we beat Chelsea as well? We are always thinking big and aiming high
here and that is the main priority. "Slaven is a very good coach and is able
to transmit his ideas to the players very easily. He sets the team up well
for every match and as a group we always follow what he says. "As you can
see from the results that has been working very well and the rest of the
coaching staff have had a very good effect on the team."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Reece Burke played the full game and provided an assist for the Bantams as
they beat Bury 2-1, ending a remarkable 17 away game unbeaten run. Rory
McArdle put the hosts ahead on the stroke of half-time before Reece Brown
headed Burke's powerful header past his own goalkeeper.
Danny Rose scored a late consolation goal but it proved too little too late.
The win takes the Bantams into the top half of League One with 19 points
from 13 games.
Josh Pask played the full games as Dagenham secured a valuable 2-2 away draw
with York City. With both sides struggling near the bottom of League Two,
Vadaine Oliver opened the scoring for the hosts but Ashley Hemmings
equalised shortly afterward as he fired inside Scott Flinders' near post.
Jamie Cureton then put the Daggers in front, poking in an eight-yard effort
before Michael Coulson found the bottom corner from 20 yards.
Diego Poyet's MK Dons slipped to a 2-0 defeat away at Huddersfield Town.
Poyet played the full ninety minutes against former manager Chris Powell,
who he worked with at Charlton Athletic and the Terriers on loan last
season.
Goals from Nahki Wells and Jamie Paterson sealed the victory.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Etherington: players gambled up to £20,000 per game
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Matthew Etherington has revealed the staggering extent that in-house
gambling took upon both him and his fellow West Ham team mates during Alan
Pardew's reign as manager. Etherington, who spent six years at West Ham lost
hundreds of thousands of pounds as a result of his gambling addiction during
his playing career - much of which was forfeited during his spell at the
Boleyn Ground. And he revealed how the practise of holding 'card schools'
during long away trips was eventually curtailed by the manager, once he
discovered the extent of the problem. "People were losing 15 or 20 grand in
one trip, which, looking back at it now, was absolutely ridiculous,"
Etherington told the KUMB Podcast's Chris Scull and James Longman in this
week's exclusive interview. "But it was what it was, it happened. "I think
Pardew saw the money that was being exchanged. We were bring five grand in
cash per person to every away trip. If someone wasn't winning and owed 15
grand, you'd say "can I have five off you?" - and jot it down. "As much as I
loved my time at West Ham and as much as I genuinely loved the club, at that
time I needed a change, to get out of London and just have a bit of time to
breath and sort my life out. Which, luckily, I did."
Etherington also revealed that he was asked to play in an important
relegation six-pointer against Charlton in February 2007 by Pardew's
successor Alan Curbishley - despite having spent the week before in the
Sporting Chance clinic, in a desperate attempt to get a grip on his
addiction. "It wasn't revealed in the press but I was in the clinic before
that game," he recalled. "I hadn't trained, I met the lads on the Saturday
and Curbs played me for some mad reason! I came off at half time as I didn't
know where I was or what I was doing. I wasn't in right frame of mind to be
playing but Curbs played me. We got beat 4-0. "On the whole, West Ham were
brilliant [to me]. But I'd been in the clinic the week leading up to that
Charlton game and Curbs said "I'm going to play you" - and I was like, "ok".
Looking back on it now, I probably shouldn't have played."
Now 34 and having retired as a professional, Etherington is taking his
coaching badges with view to returning to the game in the near future. He
also plans to release a book next summer which examines his addiction and
the problems it caused. "I was the best liar in the world," he admitted.
"I'm not proud to admit that, but I was. It's one of the most dangerous
addictions, I think. People would say 'alcoholism is an addiction, and
there's drug addiction, but gambling's not an addiction - why can't you just
stop?' "I always think that's such an ignorant way to look at it. It's an
illness, there's no doubting that. And it's a dangerous illness because you
can hide everything, tuck it away deep down and no-one has to know about
anything. "I'm releasing a book next summer and there's about a million
stories in there that you probably won't believe. It's quite shocking and
I've tried to block most of it out. But a big part of that was my last
couple of years at West Ham."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taylor returns - as fourth official
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 21st October 2015
By: Staff Writer
The man dubbed 'the worst referee ever' returns to the Boleyn Ground this
Saturday when West Ham face Chelsea in the weekend's big London derby.
Fortunately however, Anthony Taylor - who has come under heavy criticism
from Hammers fans in the past for some dreadful decisions - has only been
given the role as fourth official. Meanwhile West Ham's clash with the
mid-table Blues will be officiated by Jonathan Moss, who was last in east
London for United's 4-3 defeat at the hands of Bournemouth back in August.
Moss, who hails from West Yorkshire, has refereed just seven matches so far
this season, issuing 19 yellow cards and two red cards in the process. Prior
to the Bournemouth encounter game, Moss' last visit to the Boleyn was back
in May of this year when West Ham beat Burnley 1-0 courtesy of a Mark Noble
penalty - a goal that followed the harsh dismissal of Burnley's Michael
Duff.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LLDC release fresh OS contract details
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 21st October 2015
By: Staff Writer
The LLDC have unveiled further details regarding their agreement with West
Ham United for the Olympic Stadium. The London Legacy Development
Corporation were recently ordered by the information commissioner to
disclose some of the clauses that had been originally blacked out in their
200+ page Concession Agreement with the club. However a number of key
clauses - including that which reveals exactly what percentage of the
stadium's naming rights will go to West Ham - remain under embargo. The
revised public edition of 207 page document has revealed further details
regarding the agreement on the following pages: 8, 15, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25,
26, 49, 50, 57, 66, 69, 74, 75 and 91. You may view the document here.
Meanwhile, Charlton Athletic chief executive Katrien Meire has revealed that
despite the concerns of some of the club's supporters, the Championship side
have few concerns regarding West Ham United's impending move. "I think we
have a very unique and different proposition from West Ham," she told News
Shopper. "At Charlton we have certain values that are not found in another
London club – we have a family club image with a big history where people
can come for an easy, affordably day out. ""The fans feel part of the club.
The players are accessible, the manager is accessible and you're very close
to the core of the club. West Ham will have a different kind of proposition,
I think. "At other Premier League games it's great, the football is great –
but you are just one of the thousands of people and you perhaps don't feel
as part of the community. "I don't blame West Ham for getting the deal of
the century – they had an opportunity and they went for it. I think it's the
government who need to think twice about what they've done."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham cool reports of Tottenham using Upton Park for one season
Last Updated: 21/10/15 9:59am
SSN
West Ham have moved to cool reports that Tottenham could play at Upton Park
for a season while White Hart Lane is redeveloped. Spurs are looking for a
stadium to call home for the 2017/18 season while they build their new
61,000-seater stadium, with Wembley believed to be the club's preferred
option. However, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy claims Chelsea have offered a
four-year deal to land Wembley as their temporary home during their own
redevelopment of Stamford Bridge, putting Tottenham's chances of using the
national stadium in doubt. The north London club's contingency plan is MK
Dons' Stadium MK in Milton Keynes - more than 50 miles from Tottenham - and
Sky sources understand a deal has already been verbally agreed for its use.
But although Tottenham are still determined to share Wembley with Chelsea,
reports on Wednesday suggested Upton Park would be a possible solution
because of doubts about the planned demolition of the stadium to make way
for housing. West Ham will leave the Boleyn Ground at the end of the season
to move to the Olympic Stadium. But Hammers vice-chairman Karen Brady has
confirmed the club put a covenant on the ground which prevents any other
club using it as their home ground or playing matches there without West
Ham's permission. "Therefore, this categorically rules out any other
football team, including Tottenham Hotspur, from using the ground to play
football matches unless the Board of West Ham United gives them permission
to do so," read the statement.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
IS IT ANTONIO OR VALENCIA ON SATURDAY AND WHAT ABOUT THE U-21S?
By S J Chandos 21 Oct 2015 at 08:00
WTID
With Chelsea next up at Upton Park, obviously Victor Moses can not be
selected for a fixture against his parent club. As such, it opens up the
question of who will occupy Moses' usual berth out wide? There are arguably
two main candidates, Michail Antonio or Enner Valencia, so who would be the
best replacement for Moses? It might be tempting to go with Valencia, but it
has to be questioned whether the player is currently sufficiently match-fit
to start? He was an unused substitute against Crystal Palace and, although
he secured some useful match time for the U-21s on Monday evening, it is
more likely that Valencia will be on the bench. If that assessment of
situation is correct, then it is more than possible that Antonio will get
his first big team opportunity.
To date, Antonio has had 30 minutes match-time in the victory over
Manchester City. Indeed, some fans have expressed concern on social media
that Antonio had hitherto received so little first team exposure. So much
so, that Antonio obviously felt compelled to address the issue on twitter.
And I have to say that his response was level headed and encouraging.
Basically, Antonio recognised that he had to await his chance for a first
team chance and expressed his determination to grab it once it presents
itself. Indeed, the former Notts Forest winger has to make a significant
transition from Championship to Premier League football and it was always
likely that the process will commence in training and the U-21s. As Antonio
correctly states, the crucial thing is that he is ready to take his chance.
Do you remember Liverpool in their classic era of the 1970s and early 1980s?
They frequently signed promising players, who would serve their time in the
reserves and learn the Anfield playing style/tactics, before re-emerging at
first team level. Many future Liverpool stars underwent this period of
internal transition on joining the club. It was part and parcel of making
them Liverpool players and reinforcing the 'boot room' system that served
the Anfield club well for so many years.
Why would new players like Antonio not benefit from serving an induction in
playing the West Ham Way! (Say that with pride, because it does exist and it
is definitely coming back under Bilic). Especially considering the squad's
newly acquired strength-in-depth and much improved competition for places.
Essentially, any promising young player who signs must know that success
will come through knuckling down, impressing in training/the U-21s,
competing for a first team place and taking their chance when it comes. It
is exactly the ethos that fires football progression and success. And I am
very glad to say that it has finally been embedded at West Ham United.
There is a strong possibility that Antonio's patience, and dedication in
training, will be rewarded this Saturday. He has been kept on a short leash,
whilst Moses had impressed in the first team. Now could be his time. Only
Bilic and the coaching staff will know if he is ready, but his selection (as
a relatively unknown quantity) could help 'wrong foot' the reigning PL
champions. Perhaps Antonio's pace, power and goal scoring threat might prove
an important factor. We shall see? It would certainly add another dimension
to what is likely to be a great match. My prediction? A highly entertaining
4-3 Hammers victory! COYI !
Elsewhere, it is notable that the Development Squad notched its first
victory of the season in Monday evening's 4-0 victory over the Wolves U-21s.
The U-21s were augmented by the inclusion of regular first teamers Valencia
and Obiang (who both played the first 45 minutes), but there were also
plenty of our outstanding young talent on display, with the likes of Cullen,
Samuelson, Browne, Oxford and Onariase playing. Indeed, the match was a
timely reminder that we have another highly promising young centre-back
besides Oxford and Burke; and that is Manny Onariase, who formed a great
defensive partnership with Oxford. Onariase not only underlined his central
defensive credentials, but demonstrated his threat at set pieces, scoring
the second goal from an in-swinging Josh Cullen corner. While, Valencia
scored the opening goal, Browne the third and Samuelson (following up on a
saved Lee penalty) completed the rout with the fourth.
Hopefully, this will be the result that turns around the Development squad's
season. Next up on Monday, 26 September 2015, are the Fulham U-21s, at Upton
Park. Why not go along and check out the progress of our youngsters (and
watch a regular first teamer or two in the bargain)?
Which brings me to a website message that Iain recently received from WHTID
reader, Phil Fisher. Phil laments the lack of advanced information provided
by the club on the Development Squad and argues that improved attendances at
U-21 matches might just help improve results. He goes on to give the example
of the forthcoming tie against Exeter City in the U-21 Cup. How did Phil
(who lives in the South-west) actually find out about the tie? From the
South-West Hammers Club, who received notification from Exeter City! Phil
concludes by adding:
'Why does it take the opposition to call me about this? I'm not going to
travel 150 miles to watch them on a cold Tuesday night at Rush Green, but
living in the South-West means I would love to travel 40 minutes down the
road to Exeter and watch them in Cup action. Chances are there will be
nothing on the Club website until the day of the match, meaning it would be
too late for me to arrange childcare, etc, in order for me to attend the
match.'
'Hopefully Blogs like yours can make the Club wake up to this. There are
more West Ham fans outside of London than there are inside and it would be
great to know when our Youngsters were playing on our door step so we can
get out and support them.'
So, there you have it. Could the club please ensure that more advanced
information about U-21 matches is posted on the club's website. The club
also have an extensive supporter email database, why not use it to contact
fans in advance about forthcoming U-21 fixtures? Lets maximise the turn out
of support for the U-21s by ensuring that Hammers fans have the best
possible opportunity to attend, whether that is at home or away fixtures
around the country.
SJ. Chandos.
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Antonio – the big question on his future answered
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 21, 2015 in Hugh's Blogs, News,
Whispers
C and H
Antonio"So what's going on with Antonio than?" If I've heard that question
once I've heard it at least 50 times on social media over the last few weeks
and already the conspiracy theories are starting. The big one of course is
that he's a David Sullivan signing that the manager didn't want and it's
untrue. There was, however, a debate about the player between the chairman
and the manager ahead of D-Day with the team chief explaining he needed 24
hours before deadline day to decide whether Michail was a £7 million
player. Once he had done so the chairman and Karren Brady got down to the
business of thrashing out the terms but there was always a background story.
With the Irons board flat out to secure their Premier League status ahead of
the OS move – relegation being totally unthinkable in their last Boleyn
season – they had already brought Victor Moses in a hugely expensive loan
deal.
At the time we revealed that the Chelsea player could cost as much as
£185,000 per game which, were he to play in every league game would see his
cost for one season soar to over £6 million plus National Insurance and
agents' fee. It works out as a very big deal indeed in WHUFC terms.
http://www.claretandhugh.info/exclusive-moses-costs-could-hit-185k-a-game/.
Antonio had been on the radar for some time but interest from other clubs
was intensifying and in the end we spent the£7 million in order to ensure he
was on board foe next season when Moses will be allowed to move back to
Chelsea hopefully with our gratitude.That deal took the club's spend to £35
million – £10 million more than had been in the original plan. Thus we now –
and more importantly Antonio – find ourselves in the middle of a waiting
period and I would guess that once we are safe from any threat of relegation
the midfielder will be blooded in a few games before he becomes the Moses
successor next season.
All of this will have been explained to him when terms were being discussed
along of course with the possibility that he will be launched into action
should, for example, Moses receive an injury. There's no conspiracies here,
just strategic long term planning …and it's very good to see.
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Payet's delight at fans song in his honour
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Dimtri Payet appears to appreciate the new song to emerge from the Selhurst
Park away win last weekend. The French playmaker, who has scored five goals
and made three assists this season, has shown his appreciation by
re-tweeting fans videos of the song on twitter.
Those links have been re-tweeted and copied on social media tens of
thousands of times as the song goes viral in West Ham communities.
This is the first song in a long time which has such a catchy tune and has
broken away from the terraces to make it mainstream among Irons supporters.
Many say they can't get the tune out of their head since the weekend and it
looks certain to be sung at The Boleyn ground this Saturday when the Hammers
take on Chelsea. Claret and Hugh Associate editor Sean Whetstone created a
10 minute audio version of the song which he uploaded and tagged Payet on
twitter. This was re-tweeted by the player himself and has viewed and played
more than 22,000 times. If you haven't heard it yet it can be played before.
Enjoy!
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West Ham OS interior designs revealed
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham Vice Chairman Karren Brady have given us a glimpse of design ideas
to make the Olmpci Stadium feel and look like West Ham's home next season.
lady Brady tweeted out "looking at designs for the interior of our new
stadium. my team have done fantastic job in putting images together."
The designs include Claret coloured toilets with crossed hammers and the
words 'Come On You Irons' above it. Another picture shows a massive Claret
and Blue shirt with the word Moore and the number 6 hung above the entrance
to the stairs to the upper stands from the concourse. Another image shows
the new West Ham crest with sky blue bubbles and the words "They fly so
high" on a Claret background.
The design images also include to confirm clever use of Claret and Blue
lighting in the concourse of both the Sir Trevor Brooking and Bobby Moore
stands.
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Song ready to "play football he likes to play"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 21, 2015 in News
C and H
Alex Song can't wait to get back into action "playing the football I like to
play." The midfielder strayed no further into sensitive areas talking to the
official site but made it clear he can't wait to play alongside, Dimitri
Payet, Manu Lanzine, Mark Noble, Cheik Kouyate, Diafra Sakho and the other
lads. He said: "We are playing the football I like to play and I am very
happy. It will be a pleasure to come back and join the guys, because they
are playing the way I like to play. "I am very happy to be here and see them
play that way. I want to come back and for us to enjoy our football
together."
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Jamie's memory defies Harry's quote
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Fair play to Jamie Redknapp – he has a very long memory, one that goes back
to beyond the days when he was inside his Mum's womb. For according to the
Sky TV pundit – born in 1973 – he has always believed in the West Ham Way,
which according to his father applied only to Ron Greenwood's days back in
the sixties, several years before Jamie was around. He was actually born in
1973 and perhaps started understanding this stuff at around 1980 – aided
presumably by his old man Today he told the Daily Mail:"I grew up supporting
West Ham and always believed in the 'West Ham way.'" However, Harry has a
different 'take' on the issue and claims such an Academy approach to things
probably has changed since those days over five decades ago. He told
www.kicca.com recently: : "They talk about the Academy but that was a long,
long, long, long time ago that West Ham played this wonderful football that
everyone talks about. "We're talking about Ron Greenwood's days probably and
in those days he had three players who played in a World Cup Final so it
wasn't difficult to play fantastic football. But also where did they finish
in them years… bottom half of the league even with three World Cup players."
Thanks Harry – NEXT
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Former Hammers help Seagulls promotion push
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former Hammers Bobby Zamora and Sam Baldock helped Brighton and Hove to a
2-1 comeback against Bristol City in the Championship. Brighton top the
championship table with 28 points after 12 games in their push for promotion
to the Premier League.
Zamora scored a late winner as Brighton came from behind to beat Bristol
City and maintain their unbeaten start in the Championship. The substitute
fired a low 15-yard shot into the right corner eight minutes from time,
moments after coming on. Another former Hammer Sam Baldock tapped home
Bruno's right-wing cross after the break to level before Zamora's late
winner.
It was Bobby Zamora's second goal for the Seagulls scoring an impressive two
in two in less than a week. Bobby Zamora came on a substitute last week and
scored his first goal for Brighton since returning to the club to give the
Championship leaders a late win at Leeds.
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FORMER ENGLAND MANAGER CONCERNED WITH REECE OXFORD
By Joe Barnbrook 1 hour ago R
Speaking to talkSPORT, former England U21 manager Stuart Pearce has said of
his frustration over youngster Reece Oxford not travelling with England to
the U17 World Cup, which is taking place in Chile. The promising Hammers
defender has appeared three times in the Premier League this season, most
notably on the opening day against Arsenal, and has previously captained
England in the qualifying stages of the tournament. However, the 16-year-old
will play no part in the three-week long tournament, 'due to concerns over
fatigue'.
Pearce himself made 78 appearances for the national team, and is a firm
believer that for England to win senior competitions, they must first win
something at a junior level. "For me, as I have said many, many times
before, the key to winning something at senior level is winning something at
these junior tournaments. "What an experience this is for any young player.
A life experience, not just a footballing experience. A World Cup in Chile –
that is a life experience. "If he is playing in West Ham's first team week
after week I would say, 'I can't understand it, but OK, fine'. But if he is
not even in the West Ham squad, wowee. "Where is your progression, a) as a
man and b) as a footballer? "He might have been up for the captaincy and
captaining your country in Chile is a better life experience and a better
footballing experience for him to progress in football than staying at West
Ham and possibly being on the bench or not being in the squad."
Earlier this month West Ham manager Slaven Bilic also spoke on the
situation."Reece is an exceptional talent that we have to nurture. And we
need him in the first team," said Bilic. "We have made a long-term plan for
him to not to affect his body and his development. If we let him go for one
and a half months or whatever, it's no good." It is unclear as to when
Oxford will next feature for the Hammers in the first team, however it is
undoubted how highly-rated he is at Upton Park. As for the Young Lions out
in South America, their chances of getting out of the group do not look
great after a draw to Guinea and a 1-0 defeat to Brazil. Next up are current
group-toppers South Korea.
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Plans to turn West Ham's ground into housing are set to be thrown out
West Ham are set to leave Upton Park and move to the Olympic Stadium at the
end of this season
Plans to turn Upton Park into a residential scheme are set to be thrown out
Clause in West Ham's sale of Upton Park to developer Galliard dictates club
do not have to leave it fit to host football
But Tottenham are unable to move in because of a covenant in place
By ALEX MILLER FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 16:44, 20 October 2015 | UPDATED: 10:24, 21 October 2015
Plans to demolish West Ham's stadium and replace it with a residential
scheme are set to be thrown out by councillors - but there is no chance of
Spurs moving in. West Ham are leaving Upton Park at the end of the season to
move to the Olympic Stadium, when it was thought the old ground would be
knocked down and redeveloped. However, earlier this year, Newham Council
said proposals submitted last year by developer Galliard Homes to provide
just six per cent of 838 homes as affordable – with none as social rented -
were unacceptable. And now, planners are recommending refusal of a revised
offer to increase the proportion of affordable homes to 22 per cent. In a
report set to go before the council's strategic development committee,
planners said the proposed redevelopment of the Boleyn Ground by BUJ
Architects failed to meet policy requiring new developments of more than 10
to include 35 per cent to 50 per cent affordable housing. Last year Spurs
failed with an ambitious bid to buy Upton Park from West Ham. Spurs chairman
Daniel Levy wanted to purchase the ground for the 2016-17 season. However,
Spurs are unable to move in once West Ham leave because of a convenant
signed by the east London club to stop their rivals making it their
temporary home while their new ground is built.
A West Ham statement read: 'Following a story published online on Tuesday
evening which stated Tottenham Hotspur could use the Boleyn Ground after
West Ham have moved out, vice-chairman Karren Brady would like to confirm
that, as a condition of the sale, she put a covenant on the ground which
prevents any other football club from using it as their home ground or
playing matches there without the express permission of West Ham United.
'Therefore, this categorically rules out any other football team, including
Tottenham Hotspur, from using the ground to play football matches unless the
Board of West Ham United gives them permission to do so.' The Hammers will
take key components of their stadium with them to Stratford, with a clause
of their sale to Galliard dictating that they do not have to leave it in a
fit state to host football. Spurs' failed bid and Chelsea's determination
not to share Wembley with them has increased the chance that Spurs would
have to temporarily leave London for Milton Keynes - a move that hasn't gone
down well with many supporters. The council and Galliard are also known to
be aware of the growing interest in NFL and the potential for the Boleyn
Ground to host other sporting activities such as rugby union, rugby league
and cricket. In the planning application it says that although Galliard have
not approached a new tenant they 'consider that the Boleyn Ground would be
an appealing prospect as a sporting venue.' Sources close to West Ham
insist the future of Upton Park is a matter for Newham Council and Galliard
to sort out, but they hope a solution can be found to suit both parties. The
club is eager for the site to serve the local community and that the legacy
of West Ham in the area is protected. The club turned down bigger offers to
ensure this was the case. Galliard refused to comment on the possibility of
Upton Park being used for football or other sports after next summer. A
statement on behalf of Galliard Homes and Barratt London, said: 'Galliard
Homes and Barratt London can confirm that they are working together
regarding the potential redevelopment of the existing West Ham football
ground, following the club's relocation to the former Olympic Stadium in
readiness for the 2016/2017 football season. Knight Frank is advising.'
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Bilic – Keeping the front men on-side?
Posted on October 21, 2015 by Headmaster
Claret & Blues.com
The competition for places demarcates the quality of a squad and the
ambition of a football club. It is well documented that, in terms of depth,
few of us can recall a West Ham United squad that had greater quality than
the present playing staff employees of this great football club. For that,
even this oft' critical blogger will pay respect and gratitude towards
Messrs Sullivan and Gold who, at long last, seem to have struck upon a
winning strategy and a more successful recruitment policy.
In no area is the competition for places greater than up front. It is not so
long ago that we could hardly have dreamt of a side that could include
players such as Sakho, Valencia, Carroll, Valencia, supported by an
attacking midfield with the creativity and energy of Payet, Lanzini, Zarate,
Kouyate and with promising signings like Antonio yet to really feature and
Alex Song soon to return to fitness, this particular manager has a headache
that, to be fair to him, Allardyce never even had to remotely face.
It is up top that intrigues me as much as any area and I'd be interested in
your thoughts.
Here are mine:
It seems to me that in most games, we are likely to play just one out and
out striker and I think that is likely to be Sakho. Sakho is a kind of Cole
but with pace and guile, not to mention the ability to make intelligent
runs, bring others into play and find the back of the opposition net
occasionally. I think that the work he put in, for example, at Crystal
Palace last weekend was exemplary and contributed in no small part to the
way in which others were able to ultimately exploit the Palace rear-guard as
they inevitably tired. I think he's a class act.
I loved the way in which Bilic used Carroll on Saturday and I believe that
this is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. I am not a huge fan,
it has to be said and I differ from the contention of many that AC has this
great ball playing ability and is, "on his day, unplayable". That last part
may be true but it is the question around how many of 'his days' we are
likely to see anytime soon? In any event, I just don't see Slaven starting
Carroll as a first choice lone front man at the moment. Coming on at around
70 minutes and imposing himself physically seems to me to be an ideal use of
Andy's talents just now. Will this be enough for the big man, previously the
plan A, B and C of the previous gaffer? Remains to be seen. Personally, it
would not surprise me to see his exodus in the January window.
Jelavic? Squad player, surely? He got on for a few minutes on Saturday but
I'd be surprised to see him feature very much. I think his best days are
behind him and, whilst he adds depth and 'will do' in a crisis, or an
exceptional situation like Saturday's where we can afford to throw the
kitchen sink at the thing, I think his game time will be limited. 3rd round
away to Barnsley on a January Sunday morning perhaps, in the FA cup? (No,
that was a few years ago – don't remind me!)
So, for me the real question is over the returning Enner Valencia. After a
great start to last season, he has been asked to play out wide and
unimpressed on more than a few occasions. Bought as an out and out striker,
he is the one player that I am worried we need to find a profitable role for
if we are to retain him but I'm just not sure where that is likely to be
given our approach with essentially supports the lone front man with
attacking midfield flair.
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WHUFc.com
Following a story published online on Tuesday evening which stated Tottenham
Hotspur could use the Boleyn Ground after West Ham have moved out,
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady would like to confirm that, as a condition of the
sale, she put a covenant on the ground which prevents any other football
club from using it as their home ground or playing matches there without the
express permission of West Ham United.
Therefore, this categorically rules out any other football team, including
Tottenham Hotspur, from using the ground to play football matches unless the
Board of West Ham United gives them permission to do so.
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Meet Julian Dicks at the U21s game on Monday
WHUFC.com
Head down to the Boleyn Ground on Monday 26 October to see the next
generation of West Ham United stars in action – free of charge!
The Hammers' U21s are taking on Fulham in their latest U21 Premier League
fixture, with a 7pm kick-off at the Boleyn Ground.
The likes of Josh Cullen, Reece Oxford, Lewis Page, Martin Samuelsen and
Elliot Lee have all been in the first team picture this season and you could
see them under the famous lights as Terry Westley's men go for a second
successive win.
You can make a real night of it, as Julian Dicks will be in attendance at
the Stadium Store between 5-7pm for a meet and greet and signing session.
Turnstiles open at 6pm, so make sure you come along for a night of great
entertainment at the Boleyn Ground!
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Lanzini - The West Ham fans are fantastic
WHUFC.com
It proved to be another busy summer of transfer activity at West Ham United
with 12 new signings arriving at the Boleyn Ground. Most of the focus
surrounded the capture of Dimitri Payet from Marseille and he has made an
immediate impact in the East End with a superb start to his Hammers career.
But another major factor behind the Club's impressive start has been the
arrival of Manuel Lanzini – even though he was not well known to the
majority of supporters. The Argentine forward arrived on a season-long loan
from Al Jazira and was determined to make a big impact in the Premier
League. Nicknamed 'The Jewell', the 22-year-old was a big target for Slaven
Bilic when he was manager of Besiktas last season, but the deal never
materialised.
Lanzini earned rave reviews during his spell in the UAE and the Hammers
manager was determined to bring him to the east London Club.
With the departures of Matt Jarvis and Kevin Nolan, Bilic showed his trust
in the talented attacker as he handed him a shock first-team start against
Liverpool at Anfield. Lanzini wasted no time repaying him by opening the
scoring after just three minutes and produced an impressive display as he
helped his side come away with a memorable 3-0 victory. Bilic had no doubts
he had the quality to compete at the highest level and he has cemented his
place in the first-team ever since and stole the show once again as he
helped the Hammers continue their sensational away record with a 3-1 win
over Crystal Palace last weekend.
Lanzini says he is relishing the chance to showcase his talents in the top
flight and hopes to play a major role for the east London Club when they
move into the new Stadium next summer. Lanzini said: "I am playing football
in one of the best leagues in the world and I am really enjoying it. "Moving
to the new Stadium is a big investment and change for the Club. The West Ham
fans are fantastic and I hope to be part of this new change and to be on the
pitch doing my job. "Why can't we dream big? But I think we have to think
about the present first of all and carry on the path that we have been
taking. "When the team is doing well success eventually follows and we want
to achieve great things."
Lanzini says the added attraction of living in London has been a major
factor for him and has felt at home since the opening day as the likes of
Enner Valencia, Mauro Zarate, Adrian and Pedro Obiang have all helped him
settle in. He added: "London is a beautiful city that I have always wanted
to see and learn about. It has got so much history and there are some
wonderful sights to see here. "I am able to do what I love so when I get to
walk around the City it is also fantastic. "Settling in quickly has been
very important for me and having so many players who I can speak the same
language with has been a crucial factor. "These players have been a key part
for me settling in as well as the English players and everyone else in the
group. I would like to thank them for helping me. I have been learning to
speak English and hope to understand more soon."
Lanzini has special praise for his manager and feels Bilic is getting the
best out of him since his arrival back in July. With the Hammers unbeaten in
their last six Premier League games, Lanzini is now looking forward to
testing himself against the Premier League champions on Saturday and hopes
to continue their amazing run against the big guns this season and come away
with another memorable victory. "I have never had the chance to play against
a team managed by Jose Mourinho but I am happy to be in the position to play
in such a big game knowing exactly what it means to the Club. "I know all
the South American players at Chelsea by name and am very excited about
facing them and playing in such a big game. "I know it is very important for
us as we look to maintain our high position in the table. If we carry on
playing like we have been there is no reason why we cannot do that. "Why
cannot we beat Chelsea as well? We are always thinking big and aiming high
here and that is the main priority. "Slaven is a very good coach and is able
to transmit his ideas to the players very easily. He sets the team up well
for every match and as a group we always follow what he says. "As you can
see from the results that has been working very well and the rest of the
coaching staff have had a very good effect on the team."
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Reece Burke played the full game and provided an assist for the Bantams as
they beat Bury 2-1, ending a remarkable 17 away game unbeaten run. Rory
McArdle put the hosts ahead on the stroke of half-time before Reece Brown
headed Burke's powerful header past his own goalkeeper.
Danny Rose scored a late consolation goal but it proved too little too late.
The win takes the Bantams into the top half of League One with 19 points
from 13 games.
Josh Pask played the full games as Dagenham secured a valuable 2-2 away draw
with York City. With both sides struggling near the bottom of League Two,
Vadaine Oliver opened the scoring for the hosts but Ashley Hemmings
equalised shortly afterward as he fired inside Scott Flinders' near post.
Jamie Cureton then put the Daggers in front, poking in an eight-yard effort
before Michael Coulson found the bottom corner from 20 yards.
Diego Poyet's MK Dons slipped to a 2-0 defeat away at Huddersfield Town.
Poyet played the full ninety minutes against former manager Chris Powell,
who he worked with at Charlton Athletic and the Terriers on loan last
season.
Goals from Nahki Wells and Jamie Paterson sealed the victory.
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Etherington: players gambled up to £20,000 per game
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th October 2015
By: Staff Writer
Matthew Etherington has revealed the staggering extent that in-house
gambling took upon both him and his fellow West Ham team mates during Alan
Pardew's reign as manager. Etherington, who spent six years at West Ham lost
hundreds of thousands of pounds as a result of his gambling addiction during
his playing career - much of which was forfeited during his spell at the
Boleyn Ground. And he revealed how the practise of holding 'card schools'
during long away trips was eventually curtailed by the manager, once he
discovered the extent of the problem. "People were losing 15 or 20 grand in
one trip, which, looking back at it now, was absolutely ridiculous,"
Etherington told the KUMB Podcast's Chris Scull and James Longman in this
week's exclusive interview. "But it was what it was, it happened. "I think
Pardew saw the money that was being exchanged. We were bring five grand in
cash per person to every away trip. If someone wasn't winning and owed 15
grand, you'd say "can I have five off you?" - and jot it down. "As much as I
loved my time at West Ham and as much as I genuinely loved the club, at that
time I needed a change, to get out of London and just have a bit of time to
breath and sort my life out. Which, luckily, I did."
Etherington also revealed that he was asked to play in an important
relegation six-pointer against Charlton in February 2007 by Pardew's
successor Alan Curbishley - despite having spent the week before in the
Sporting Chance clinic, in a desperate attempt to get a grip on his
addiction. "It wasn't revealed in the press but I was in the clinic before
that game," he recalled. "I hadn't trained, I met the lads on the Saturday
and Curbs played me for some mad reason! I came off at half time as I didn't
know where I was or what I was doing. I wasn't in right frame of mind to be
playing but Curbs played me. We got beat 4-0. "On the whole, West Ham were
brilliant [to me]. But I'd been in the clinic the week leading up to that
Charlton game and Curbs said "I'm going to play you" - and I was like, "ok".
Looking back on it now, I probably shouldn't have played."
Now 34 and having retired as a professional, Etherington is taking his
coaching badges with view to returning to the game in the near future. He
also plans to release a book next summer which examines his addiction and
the problems it caused. "I was the best liar in the world," he admitted.
"I'm not proud to admit that, but I was. It's one of the most dangerous
addictions, I think. People would say 'alcoholism is an addiction, and
there's drug addiction, but gambling's not an addiction - why can't you just
stop?' "I always think that's such an ignorant way to look at it. It's an
illness, there's no doubting that. And it's a dangerous illness because you
can hide everything, tuck it away deep down and no-one has to know about
anything. "I'm releasing a book next summer and there's about a million
stories in there that you probably won't believe. It's quite shocking and
I've tried to block most of it out. But a big part of that was my last
couple of years at West Ham."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taylor returns - as fourth official
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 21st October 2015
By: Staff Writer
The man dubbed 'the worst referee ever' returns to the Boleyn Ground this
Saturday when West Ham face Chelsea in the weekend's big London derby.
Fortunately however, Anthony Taylor - who has come under heavy criticism
from Hammers fans in the past for some dreadful decisions - has only been
given the role as fourth official. Meanwhile West Ham's clash with the
mid-table Blues will be officiated by Jonathan Moss, who was last in east
London for United's 4-3 defeat at the hands of Bournemouth back in August.
Moss, who hails from West Yorkshire, has refereed just seven matches so far
this season, issuing 19 yellow cards and two red cards in the process. Prior
to the Bournemouth encounter game, Moss' last visit to the Boleyn was back
in May of this year when West Ham beat Burnley 1-0 courtesy of a Mark Noble
penalty - a goal that followed the harsh dismissal of Burnley's Michael
Duff.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LLDC release fresh OS contract details
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 21st October 2015
By: Staff Writer
The LLDC have unveiled further details regarding their agreement with West
Ham United for the Olympic Stadium. The London Legacy Development
Corporation were recently ordered by the information commissioner to
disclose some of the clauses that had been originally blacked out in their
200+ page Concession Agreement with the club. However a number of key
clauses - including that which reveals exactly what percentage of the
stadium's naming rights will go to West Ham - remain under embargo. The
revised public edition of 207 page document has revealed further details
regarding the agreement on the following pages: 8, 15, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25,
26, 49, 50, 57, 66, 69, 74, 75 and 91. You may view the document here.
Meanwhile, Charlton Athletic chief executive Katrien Meire has revealed that
despite the concerns of some of the club's supporters, the Championship side
have few concerns regarding West Ham United's impending move. "I think we
have a very unique and different proposition from West Ham," she told News
Shopper. "At Charlton we have certain values that are not found in another
London club – we have a family club image with a big history where people
can come for an easy, affordably day out. ""The fans feel part of the club.
The players are accessible, the manager is accessible and you're very close
to the core of the club. West Ham will have a different kind of proposition,
I think. "At other Premier League games it's great, the football is great –
but you are just one of the thousands of people and you perhaps don't feel
as part of the community. "I don't blame West Ham for getting the deal of
the century – they had an opportunity and they went for it. I think it's the
government who need to think twice about what they've done."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham cool reports of Tottenham using Upton Park for one season
Last Updated: 21/10/15 9:59am
SSN
West Ham have moved to cool reports that Tottenham could play at Upton Park
for a season while White Hart Lane is redeveloped. Spurs are looking for a
stadium to call home for the 2017/18 season while they build their new
61,000-seater stadium, with Wembley believed to be the club's preferred
option. However, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy claims Chelsea have offered a
four-year deal to land Wembley as their temporary home during their own
redevelopment of Stamford Bridge, putting Tottenham's chances of using the
national stadium in doubt. The north London club's contingency plan is MK
Dons' Stadium MK in Milton Keynes - more than 50 miles from Tottenham - and
Sky sources understand a deal has already been verbally agreed for its use.
But although Tottenham are still determined to share Wembley with Chelsea,
reports on Wednesday suggested Upton Park would be a possible solution
because of doubts about the planned demolition of the stadium to make way
for housing. West Ham will leave the Boleyn Ground at the end of the season
to move to the Olympic Stadium. But Hammers vice-chairman Karen Brady has
confirmed the club put a covenant on the ground which prevents any other
club using it as their home ground or playing matches there without West
Ham's permission. "Therefore, this categorically rules out any other
football team, including Tottenham Hotspur, from using the ground to play
football matches unless the Board of West Ham United gives them permission
to do so," read the statement.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
IS IT ANTONIO OR VALENCIA ON SATURDAY AND WHAT ABOUT THE U-21S?
By S J Chandos 21 Oct 2015 at 08:00
WTID
With Chelsea next up at Upton Park, obviously Victor Moses can not be
selected for a fixture against his parent club. As such, it opens up the
question of who will occupy Moses' usual berth out wide? There are arguably
two main candidates, Michail Antonio or Enner Valencia, so who would be the
best replacement for Moses? It might be tempting to go with Valencia, but it
has to be questioned whether the player is currently sufficiently match-fit
to start? He was an unused substitute against Crystal Palace and, although
he secured some useful match time for the U-21s on Monday evening, it is
more likely that Valencia will be on the bench. If that assessment of
situation is correct, then it is more than possible that Antonio will get
his first big team opportunity.
To date, Antonio has had 30 minutes match-time in the victory over
Manchester City. Indeed, some fans have expressed concern on social media
that Antonio had hitherto received so little first team exposure. So much
so, that Antonio obviously felt compelled to address the issue on twitter.
And I have to say that his response was level headed and encouraging.
Basically, Antonio recognised that he had to await his chance for a first
team chance and expressed his determination to grab it once it presents
itself. Indeed, the former Notts Forest winger has to make a significant
transition from Championship to Premier League football and it was always
likely that the process will commence in training and the U-21s. As Antonio
correctly states, the crucial thing is that he is ready to take his chance.
Do you remember Liverpool in their classic era of the 1970s and early 1980s?
They frequently signed promising players, who would serve their time in the
reserves and learn the Anfield playing style/tactics, before re-emerging at
first team level. Many future Liverpool stars underwent this period of
internal transition on joining the club. It was part and parcel of making
them Liverpool players and reinforcing the 'boot room' system that served
the Anfield club well for so many years.
Why would new players like Antonio not benefit from serving an induction in
playing the West Ham Way! (Say that with pride, because it does exist and it
is definitely coming back under Bilic). Especially considering the squad's
newly acquired strength-in-depth and much improved competition for places.
Essentially, any promising young player who signs must know that success
will come through knuckling down, impressing in training/the U-21s,
competing for a first team place and taking their chance when it comes. It
is exactly the ethos that fires football progression and success. And I am
very glad to say that it has finally been embedded at West Ham United.
There is a strong possibility that Antonio's patience, and dedication in
training, will be rewarded this Saturday. He has been kept on a short leash,
whilst Moses had impressed in the first team. Now could be his time. Only
Bilic and the coaching staff will know if he is ready, but his selection (as
a relatively unknown quantity) could help 'wrong foot' the reigning PL
champions. Perhaps Antonio's pace, power and goal scoring threat might prove
an important factor. We shall see? It would certainly add another dimension
to what is likely to be a great match. My prediction? A highly entertaining
4-3 Hammers victory! COYI !
Elsewhere, it is notable that the Development Squad notched its first
victory of the season in Monday evening's 4-0 victory over the Wolves U-21s.
The U-21s were augmented by the inclusion of regular first teamers Valencia
and Obiang (who both played the first 45 minutes), but there were also
plenty of our outstanding young talent on display, with the likes of Cullen,
Samuelson, Browne, Oxford and Onariase playing. Indeed, the match was a
timely reminder that we have another highly promising young centre-back
besides Oxford and Burke; and that is Manny Onariase, who formed a great
defensive partnership with Oxford. Onariase not only underlined his central
defensive credentials, but demonstrated his threat at set pieces, scoring
the second goal from an in-swinging Josh Cullen corner. While, Valencia
scored the opening goal, Browne the third and Samuelson (following up on a
saved Lee penalty) completed the rout with the fourth.
Hopefully, this will be the result that turns around the Development squad's
season. Next up on Monday, 26 September 2015, are the Fulham U-21s, at Upton
Park. Why not go along and check out the progress of our youngsters (and
watch a regular first teamer or two in the bargain)?
Which brings me to a website message that Iain recently received from WHTID
reader, Phil Fisher. Phil laments the lack of advanced information provided
by the club on the Development Squad and argues that improved attendances at
U-21 matches might just help improve results. He goes on to give the example
of the forthcoming tie against Exeter City in the U-21 Cup. How did Phil
(who lives in the South-west) actually find out about the tie? From the
South-West Hammers Club, who received notification from Exeter City! Phil
concludes by adding:
'Why does it take the opposition to call me about this? I'm not going to
travel 150 miles to watch them on a cold Tuesday night at Rush Green, but
living in the South-West means I would love to travel 40 minutes down the
road to Exeter and watch them in Cup action. Chances are there will be
nothing on the Club website until the day of the match, meaning it would be
too late for me to arrange childcare, etc, in order for me to attend the
match.'
'Hopefully Blogs like yours can make the Club wake up to this. There are
more West Ham fans outside of London than there are inside and it would be
great to know when our Youngsters were playing on our door step so we can
get out and support them.'
So, there you have it. Could the club please ensure that more advanced
information about U-21 matches is posted on the club's website. The club
also have an extensive supporter email database, why not use it to contact
fans in advance about forthcoming U-21 fixtures? Lets maximise the turn out
of support for the U-21s by ensuring that Hammers fans have the best
possible opportunity to attend, whether that is at home or away fixtures
around the country.
SJ. Chandos.
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Antonio – the big question on his future answered
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 21, 2015 in Hugh's Blogs, News,
Whispers
C and H
Antonio"So what's going on with Antonio than?" If I've heard that question
once I've heard it at least 50 times on social media over the last few weeks
and already the conspiracy theories are starting. The big one of course is
that he's a David Sullivan signing that the manager didn't want and it's
untrue. There was, however, a debate about the player between the chairman
and the manager ahead of D-Day with the team chief explaining he needed 24
hours before deadline day to decide whether Michail was a £7 million
player. Once he had done so the chairman and Karren Brady got down to the
business of thrashing out the terms but there was always a background story.
With the Irons board flat out to secure their Premier League status ahead of
the OS move – relegation being totally unthinkable in their last Boleyn
season – they had already brought Victor Moses in a hugely expensive loan
deal.
At the time we revealed that the Chelsea player could cost as much as
£185,000 per game which, were he to play in every league game would see his
cost for one season soar to over £6 million plus National Insurance and
agents' fee. It works out as a very big deal indeed in WHUFC terms.
http://www.claretandhugh.info/exclusive-moses-costs-could-hit-185k-a-game/.
Antonio had been on the radar for some time but interest from other clubs
was intensifying and in the end we spent the£7 million in order to ensure he
was on board foe next season when Moses will be allowed to move back to
Chelsea hopefully with our gratitude.That deal took the club's spend to £35
million – £10 million more than had been in the original plan. Thus we now –
and more importantly Antonio – find ourselves in the middle of a waiting
period and I would guess that once we are safe from any threat of relegation
the midfielder will be blooded in a few games before he becomes the Moses
successor next season.
All of this will have been explained to him when terms were being discussed
along of course with the possibility that he will be launched into action
should, for example, Moses receive an injury. There's no conspiracies here,
just strategic long term planning …and it's very good to see.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet's delight at fans song in his honour
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Dimtri Payet appears to appreciate the new song to emerge from the Selhurst
Park away win last weekend. The French playmaker, who has scored five goals
and made three assists this season, has shown his appreciation by
re-tweeting fans videos of the song on twitter.
Those links have been re-tweeted and copied on social media tens of
thousands of times as the song goes viral in West Ham communities.
This is the first song in a long time which has such a catchy tune and has
broken away from the terraces to make it mainstream among Irons supporters.
Many say they can't get the tune out of their head since the weekend and it
looks certain to be sung at The Boleyn ground this Saturday when the Hammers
take on Chelsea. Claret and Hugh Associate editor Sean Whetstone created a
10 minute audio version of the song which he uploaded and tagged Payet on
twitter. This was re-tweeted by the player himself and has viewed and played
more than 22,000 times. If you haven't heard it yet it can be played before.
Enjoy!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham OS interior designs revealed
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham Vice Chairman Karren Brady have given us a glimpse of design ideas
to make the Olmpci Stadium feel and look like West Ham's home next season.
lady Brady tweeted out "looking at designs for the interior of our new
stadium. my team have done fantastic job in putting images together."
The designs include Claret coloured toilets with crossed hammers and the
words 'Come On You Irons' above it. Another picture shows a massive Claret
and Blue shirt with the word Moore and the number 6 hung above the entrance
to the stairs to the upper stands from the concourse. Another image shows
the new West Ham crest with sky blue bubbles and the words "They fly so
high" on a Claret background.
The design images also include to confirm clever use of Claret and Blue
lighting in the concourse of both the Sir Trevor Brooking and Bobby Moore
stands.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song ready to "play football he likes to play"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 21, 2015 in News
C and H
Alex Song can't wait to get back into action "playing the football I like to
play." The midfielder strayed no further into sensitive areas talking to the
official site but made it clear he can't wait to play alongside, Dimitri
Payet, Manu Lanzine, Mark Noble, Cheik Kouyate, Diafra Sakho and the other
lads. He said: "We are playing the football I like to play and I am very
happy. It will be a pleasure to come back and join the guys, because they
are playing the way I like to play. "I am very happy to be here and see them
play that way. I want to come back and for us to enjoy our football
together."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jamie's memory defies Harry's quote
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Fair play to Jamie Redknapp – he has a very long memory, one that goes back
to beyond the days when he was inside his Mum's womb. For according to the
Sky TV pundit – born in 1973 – he has always believed in the West Ham Way,
which according to his father applied only to Ron Greenwood's days back in
the sixties, several years before Jamie was around. He was actually born in
1973 and perhaps started understanding this stuff at around 1980 – aided
presumably by his old man Today he told the Daily Mail:"I grew up supporting
West Ham and always believed in the 'West Ham way.'" However, Harry has a
different 'take' on the issue and claims such an Academy approach to things
probably has changed since those days over five decades ago. He told
www.kicca.com recently: : "They talk about the Academy but that was a long,
long, long, long time ago that West Ham played this wonderful football that
everyone talks about. "We're talking about Ron Greenwood's days probably and
in those days he had three players who played in a World Cup Final so it
wasn't difficult to play fantastic football. But also where did they finish
in them years… bottom half of the league even with three World Cup players."
Thanks Harry – NEXT
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammers help Seagulls promotion push
Posted by Sean Whetstone on October 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former Hammers Bobby Zamora and Sam Baldock helped Brighton and Hove to a
2-1 comeback against Bristol City in the Championship. Brighton top the
championship table with 28 points after 12 games in their push for promotion
to the Premier League.
Zamora scored a late winner as Brighton came from behind to beat Bristol
City and maintain their unbeaten start in the Championship. The substitute
fired a low 15-yard shot into the right corner eight minutes from time,
moments after coming on. Another former Hammer Sam Baldock tapped home
Bruno's right-wing cross after the break to level before Zamora's late
winner.
It was Bobby Zamora's second goal for the Seagulls scoring an impressive two
in two in less than a week. Bobby Zamora came on a substitute last week and
scored his first goal for Brighton since returning to the club to give the
Championship leaders a late win at Leeds.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
FORMER ENGLAND MANAGER CONCERNED WITH REECE OXFORD
By Joe Barnbrook 1 hour ago R
Speaking to talkSPORT, former England U21 manager Stuart Pearce has said of
his frustration over youngster Reece Oxford not travelling with England to
the U17 World Cup, which is taking place in Chile. The promising Hammers
defender has appeared three times in the Premier League this season, most
notably on the opening day against Arsenal, and has previously captained
England in the qualifying stages of the tournament. However, the 16-year-old
will play no part in the three-week long tournament, 'due to concerns over
fatigue'.
Pearce himself made 78 appearances for the national team, and is a firm
believer that for England to win senior competitions, they must first win
something at a junior level. "For me, as I have said many, many times
before, the key to winning something at senior level is winning something at
these junior tournaments. "What an experience this is for any young player.
A life experience, not just a footballing experience. A World Cup in Chile –
that is a life experience. "If he is playing in West Ham's first team week
after week I would say, 'I can't understand it, but OK, fine'. But if he is
not even in the West Ham squad, wowee. "Where is your progression, a) as a
man and b) as a footballer? "He might have been up for the captaincy and
captaining your country in Chile is a better life experience and a better
footballing experience for him to progress in football than staying at West
Ham and possibly being on the bench or not being in the squad."
Earlier this month West Ham manager Slaven Bilic also spoke on the
situation."Reece is an exceptional talent that we have to nurture. And we
need him in the first team," said Bilic. "We have made a long-term plan for
him to not to affect his body and his development. If we let him go for one
and a half months or whatever, it's no good." It is unclear as to when
Oxford will next feature for the Hammers in the first team, however it is
undoubted how highly-rated he is at Upton Park. As for the Young Lions out
in South America, their chances of getting out of the group do not look
great after a draw to Guinea and a 1-0 defeat to Brazil. Next up are current
group-toppers South Korea.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Plans to turn West Ham's ground into housing are set to be thrown out
West Ham are set to leave Upton Park and move to the Olympic Stadium at the
end of this season
Plans to turn Upton Park into a residential scheme are set to be thrown out
Clause in West Ham's sale of Upton Park to developer Galliard dictates club
do not have to leave it fit to host football
But Tottenham are unable to move in because of a covenant in place
By ALEX MILLER FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 16:44, 20 October 2015 | UPDATED: 10:24, 21 October 2015
Plans to demolish West Ham's stadium and replace it with a residential
scheme are set to be thrown out by councillors - but there is no chance of
Spurs moving in. West Ham are leaving Upton Park at the end of the season to
move to the Olympic Stadium, when it was thought the old ground would be
knocked down and redeveloped. However, earlier this year, Newham Council
said proposals submitted last year by developer Galliard Homes to provide
just six per cent of 838 homes as affordable – with none as social rented -
were unacceptable. And now, planners are recommending refusal of a revised
offer to increase the proportion of affordable homes to 22 per cent. In a
report set to go before the council's strategic development committee,
planners said the proposed redevelopment of the Boleyn Ground by BUJ
Architects failed to meet policy requiring new developments of more than 10
to include 35 per cent to 50 per cent affordable housing. Last year Spurs
failed with an ambitious bid to buy Upton Park from West Ham. Spurs chairman
Daniel Levy wanted to purchase the ground for the 2016-17 season. However,
Spurs are unable to move in once West Ham leave because of a convenant
signed by the east London club to stop their rivals making it their
temporary home while their new ground is built.
A West Ham statement read: 'Following a story published online on Tuesday
evening which stated Tottenham Hotspur could use the Boleyn Ground after
West Ham have moved out, vice-chairman Karren Brady would like to confirm
that, as a condition of the sale, she put a covenant on the ground which
prevents any other football club from using it as their home ground or
playing matches there without the express permission of West Ham United.
'Therefore, this categorically rules out any other football team, including
Tottenham Hotspur, from using the ground to play football matches unless the
Board of West Ham United gives them permission to do so.' The Hammers will
take key components of their stadium with them to Stratford, with a clause
of their sale to Galliard dictating that they do not have to leave it in a
fit state to host football. Spurs' failed bid and Chelsea's determination
not to share Wembley with them has increased the chance that Spurs would
have to temporarily leave London for Milton Keynes - a move that hasn't gone
down well with many supporters. The council and Galliard are also known to
be aware of the growing interest in NFL and the potential for the Boleyn
Ground to host other sporting activities such as rugby union, rugby league
and cricket. In the planning application it says that although Galliard have
not approached a new tenant they 'consider that the Boleyn Ground would be
an appealing prospect as a sporting venue.' Sources close to West Ham
insist the future of Upton Park is a matter for Newham Council and Galliard
to sort out, but they hope a solution can be found to suit both parties. The
club is eager for the site to serve the local community and that the legacy
of West Ham in the area is protected. The club turned down bigger offers to
ensure this was the case. Galliard refused to comment on the possibility of
Upton Park being used for football or other sports after next summer. A
statement on behalf of Galliard Homes and Barratt London, said: 'Galliard
Homes and Barratt London can confirm that they are working together
regarding the potential redevelopment of the existing West Ham football
ground, following the club's relocation to the former Olympic Stadium in
readiness for the 2016/2017 football season. Knight Frank is advising.'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic – Keeping the front men on-side?
Posted on October 21, 2015 by Headmaster
Claret & Blues.com
The competition for places demarcates the quality of a squad and the
ambition of a football club. It is well documented that, in terms of depth,
few of us can recall a West Ham United squad that had greater quality than
the present playing staff employees of this great football club. For that,
even this oft' critical blogger will pay respect and gratitude towards
Messrs Sullivan and Gold who, at long last, seem to have struck upon a
winning strategy and a more successful recruitment policy.
In no area is the competition for places greater than up front. It is not so
long ago that we could hardly have dreamt of a side that could include
players such as Sakho, Valencia, Carroll, Valencia, supported by an
attacking midfield with the creativity and energy of Payet, Lanzini, Zarate,
Kouyate and with promising signings like Antonio yet to really feature and
Alex Song soon to return to fitness, this particular manager has a headache
that, to be fair to him, Allardyce never even had to remotely face.
It is up top that intrigues me as much as any area and I'd be interested in
your thoughts.
Here are mine:
It seems to me that in most games, we are likely to play just one out and
out striker and I think that is likely to be Sakho. Sakho is a kind of Cole
but with pace and guile, not to mention the ability to make intelligent
runs, bring others into play and find the back of the opposition net
occasionally. I think that the work he put in, for example, at Crystal
Palace last weekend was exemplary and contributed in no small part to the
way in which others were able to ultimately exploit the Palace rear-guard as
they inevitably tired. I think he's a class act.
I loved the way in which Bilic used Carroll on Saturday and I believe that
this is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. I am not a huge fan,
it has to be said and I differ from the contention of many that AC has this
great ball playing ability and is, "on his day, unplayable". That last part
may be true but it is the question around how many of 'his days' we are
likely to see anytime soon? In any event, I just don't see Slaven starting
Carroll as a first choice lone front man at the moment. Coming on at around
70 minutes and imposing himself physically seems to me to be an ideal use of
Andy's talents just now. Will this be enough for the big man, previously the
plan A, B and C of the previous gaffer? Remains to be seen. Personally, it
would not surprise me to see his exodus in the January window.
Jelavic? Squad player, surely? He got on for a few minutes on Saturday but
I'd be surprised to see him feature very much. I think his best days are
behind him and, whilst he adds depth and 'will do' in a crisis, or an
exceptional situation like Saturday's where we can afford to throw the
kitchen sink at the thing, I think his game time will be limited. 3rd round
away to Barnsley on a January Sunday morning perhaps, in the FA cup? (No,
that was a few years ago – don't remind me!)
So, for me the real question is over the returning Enner Valencia. After a
great start to last season, he has been asked to play out wide and
unimpressed on more than a few occasions. Bought as an out and out striker,
he is the one player that I am worried we need to find a profitable role for
if we are to retain him but I'm just not sure where that is likely to be
given our approach with essentially supports the lone front man with
attacking midfield flair.
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