West Ham United 0-0 Stoke City
WHUFC.com
West Ham United were held to an entertaining goalless draw by Stoke City on
Saturday, a third successive Barclays Premier League stalemate at the Boleyn
Ground. Ibrahim Affelay caused the Hammers a headache before the interval
and it was his enterprise that presented Marco van Ginkel with a gilt-edged
chance in the 12th minute, one that he promptly squandered. Michail
Antonio, on his full debut, went close for the Hammers, but, like Cheikhou
Kouyate before him, was foiled by the fists of Jack Butland. Marko
Arnautovic struck the crossbar late on with a free-kick, while Mame Biram
Diouf was twice brilliantly denied by the excellent Adrian. For the hosts,
Mauro Zarate's drive cannoned off the outside of the upright, while James
Tomkins and Kouyate both saw efforts cleared off the line in a frantic
finale.
Following his first-half introduction at Old Trafford, Antonio was handed
his first Barclays Premier League start here and a debut outing at the
Boleyn Ground to boot. Elsewhere, in the absence of the sidelined Winston
Reid, James Collins returned to the heart of the Hammers' back four. With
the game less than three minutes old, Kouyate forced Jack Butland into an
early stop, beating away the Senegal man's rasping 25-yard drive. From the
resulting corner Antonio tried his luck from a similar spot, but this time
Butland gathered comfortably enough.
At the other end, Afellay was running amok down the right, thrice creating
chances. His first foray ended with a wicked ball into the middle. Adrian
was uncertain and when van Ginkel dangled a leg, he caught the 'keeper, not
the ball. The Spaniard was soon back to his feet. The Dutchman then wriggled
to the by-line only to be denied by an outstretched Adrian boot. The third
was a golden chance. After Angelo Ogbonna had blocked Afellay's centre, van
Ginkel should have scored, or at the very least hit the target. But, from
eight yards, he dragged it horribly wide. Afellay was furious.
Stoke's No14 tried to take matters into his own hands and his 20-yarder
cannoned into James Collins as it ballooned over the bar. West Ham,
meanwhile, huffed and puffed. Antonio turned smartly out on the right-hand
touchline but was eventually crowded out as he strode into the 18-yard box.
As the half-hour mark neared, the Potters went closer to still. Again, down
the right, the familiar figure of Glen Johnson squared for Arnautovic, who,
having scored a last-gasp equaliser here last term, side-footed wide of the
near post.
After Erik Pieters had cynically felled Kouyate, the resulting free-kick
caused chaos in the visitors' box. Collins tried, once, twice and even a
third time to fire goalward, but neither he nor Kouyate could do so cleanly.
Then, in first-half stoppage time, Song played in Aaron Cresswell down the
left, who, in turn, slid a devilish ball across the face. Antonio slid in at
the near post but, via a combination of the former Nottingham Forest and a
Stoke intervention, over it went.
The Hammers won an early corner after the break and, though Collins looked
favourite for it, it skipped beyond the Welshman and Ryan Shawcross was
relieved to nod it behind. Moments later and Carroll craned his neck to nod
Zarate's left-wing centre toward goal. Though it looked to be drifting just
wide, Butland was taking no chances and palmed it away for another corner.
West Ham looked the most likely. Antonio took advantage of Stoke indecision
to test Butland, but the England stopper was equal to it, beating it out of
harm's way. With 63 on the clock, the Boleyn Ground was greeted with the
refreshing sight of Enner Valencia on the touchline. The Ecuadorean, having
come a cropper against Everton, replaced Song, as the hosts went in search
of the breakthrough. But it was Stoke with heads in hands soon after.
Arnautovic's deflected free-kick struck the crossbar, before Bojan smashed
the rebound high into the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand. Into the final 20 and
Noble, on the stretch, watched his long-range dig sail over, while
Cresswell's mishit cross was pushed behind by the acrobatic Butland. West
Ham soon had Adrian to thank for keeping it level, as he stuck out a boot
once more to deny substitute Mame Biram Diouf from eight yards. But the
Hammers weren't done either. Zarate danced around the area and struck the
outside of Butland's left-hand upright, before Valencia so nearly applied a
telling touch to Carroll's header. By now an end-to-end affair, Biram Diouf
might have won it at the death, but Adrian was in no mood to be beaten, as
he saved with his feet, yet again.
There was still drama to come, as Tomkins hooked effort was headed off the
line, before Kouyate's header got the same treatment. With that, Andre
Marriner called time on the Hammers' third draw in four.
West Ham United: Adrian, Tomkins, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Song
(Valencia 63), Noble (c), Antonio (Jelavic 83), Kouyate, Zarate, Carroll
Subs: Randolph (GK), Jenkinson, Obiang, Oxford, Cullen
Booked: Kouyate
Stoke City: Butland, Johnson, Shawcross (c), Wollscheid, Pieters, Cameron
(Adam 69), Whelan, Van Ginkel (Biram Diouf 56), Afellay (Walters 66), Bojan,
Arnautovic
Subs: Haugaard (GK), Bardsley, Joselu, Wilson
Booked: Pieters, Afellay
Referee: Andre Marriner
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Bilic - I am proud of the boys
WHUFC.com
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic could not have asked any more from his
players and was disappointed that they could not come away with all three
points following the 0-0 draw with Stoke. Despite missing key players such
as Dimiti Payet, Diafra Sakho, Victor Moses, Winston Reid and Manuel
Lanzini, the Hammers squad showed the quality they have with a number of
good chances to come away with the victory. Mauro Zarate saw his effort
strike the post, while James Tomkins and Cheikhou Kouyate both had efforts
cleared off the line in the final few seconds. There were plenty of
positives for Bilic to take out of the game with Michail Antonio impressing
in his first Premier League start and James Collins producing another
impressive display at the heart of the defence to help the side come away
with another clean sheet.
Bilic said: "I am disappointed with the result but I said to the lads after
the game I could not have asked for anymore, especially effort wise. We had
good team energy and they played as a team today. I cannot be unhappy about
that. "I thought Mauro's shot had gone in and it was a great chance that he
created by himself coming from the left to the right hand side. We also had
a great chance right at the end. "Sometimes they are crucial for the season,
let alone for one game. You sometimes need those goals to boost the whole
club and the individuals. Unfortunately it was not meant to be today. "We
had a lot of positives from our side especially when you consider the amount
of players we had missing today. To play like this against a good team makes
me proud of the boys. "It was a good game to watch. We have not scored for
two games but we have kept two clean sheets and both of those games should
not have finished 0-0. "Michail did really well. He worked hard and has been
waiting for his chance. Now he has got it and he used it really well.
Sometimes it is hard for a player to come in and take their chance when they
get it. "But he did exactly that and I am really pleased for him."
Bilic was thrilled to see Enner Valencia back in action following a month on
the sidelines with an ankle injury. The Hammers boss had more good news on
the injury front after revealing that Lanzini could make a return against
Swansea next Sunday, while Payet could be back in action at the start of the
New Year. Bilic added: "Slowly we are getting all the players back from
injury. It is great to have Enner back. We have been practically missing him
since the start of the season. "Hopefully there is a chance that Manuel
Lanzini might be back for Swansea and even Payet doesn't look like a long,
long time. "So I hope that Lanzini will be back next week and maybe even
Payet in three weeks' time, but it's going to be longer for Sakho, Moses and
Reid."
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Antonio thrilled to take his chance
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio has had to be patient for his chance since joining West Ham
United in the summer, but made the most of his first start on Saturday. The
25-year-old winger was involved from the start against Stoke City and was
named Man of the Match following an all-action performance. He went close to
claiming all three points when his second half volley was beaten away by
Jack Butland and he is keen to build on his display. "It felt unbelievable
to get a chance," he said. "This was my boyhood dream to play in the Premier
League and I've managed that. "I got Man of the Match on my first start so
hopefully I can keep pushing on and doing well. "Playing at Old Trafford
last week set me up well for this game. It showed me the levels of the
league and it was a good 50 minutes."
The Hammers may have drawn their last two games without scoring, but the
chances created could have yielded greater reward, so Antonio is positive
ahead of the Christmas period. He added: "They have been 0-0 draws, but they
haven't been 0-0 games. Against Man Utd we had quite a few opportunities,
and in this game I had quite a few opportunities. "We hit the post with
Mauro Zarate as well, so we definitely have the attacking threat, it's just
putting it in the back of the net. "For my chance in the second half, it
came over the top and I volleyed it, but just hit it straight at him. A yard
each side it would have gone in, but it's one I've had to take on the swivel
so I didn't know where I was to the goal. "Hopefully in the next game I can
put it in the back of the net."
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Patient Jelavic ready to take opportunity
WHUFC.com
On the eve of what could be his full home debut West Ham striker Nikica
Jelavic said he is ready to step up should he be called upon.
Since joining the Hammers in the summer from Hull City, the experienced
Croatian has featured seven times as a substitute and is now hoping to force
his way into the starting eleven against Stoke City. Speaking ahead of the
Hammers fixture with the Potters, Jelavic said he is doing everything he can
to catch manager Slaven Bilic's eye: "We have a very good squad and some
very good strikers here so you have to earn your place in the team, I'm
giving 100% every training session so hopefully I am going to get my chance.
"Definitely, competition for places is very important, it's good to have a
couple of good players in every position, it helps you to push yourself and
put in 100% every session and try and impress the manager."
While 'Jela' has only been at the Club for four months, he has clearly
settled into life in east London quickly. The former Rangers, Everton and
Hull man continued by saying: "I have been involved in several different
squads in my career and this is definitely a happy squad to be part of. "You
can feel the history of the club and how important it is to the fans. We are
a big Premier League club; we have great fans and the move to the new
stadium next year will make us even bigger club then we are at the moment,
it's something great that everyone connected to the club will enjoy. "With
the new stadium coming next year I think we're in a good position, I'm sure
new players will come in and will want to play for West Ham, this season is
probably too early for Champions League, right now we should concentrate on
playing good football."
With injuries to Diafra Sakho, Dimitri Payet, Victor Moses and Manuel
Lanzini, Jelavic's goal scoring prowess may well be called upon come
Saturday afternoon as the Hammers are aiming to extend their unbeaten run to
three games. A lucky omen for everyone in claret and blue is the fact that
West Ham are yet to lose at home in a match where Jelavic has featured. He
continued: "We had a great season so far, great. We've had a couple of bad
results in the last month but in general when you look at it from the start
of the season, it has been great. "I think we will have a good season ahead
of us, we're playing good football definitely think the fans are watching
good football at the moment, we are certainly trying to. We have a couple of
injuries to key players but we have already showed against Manchester United
that we can cope."
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From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
I was thrilled to be back at the new Stadium this week and spent the
afternoon with Aaron Cresswell, Manuel Lanzini and Reece Oxford.
We were delighted to be joined by members of the Priority List and Founders
who won a competition to join myself and the players at the new Stadium. We
thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The new Stadium improves every time I go
back there and it looks fantastic. It is about pride and we have achieved
something very special by moving there. We are absolutely thrilled that we
have record season tickets sales for the new Stadium and it shows you the
passion that is being generated. This is a special time to be a West Ham
United fan and this is a new era in the history of our great football club.
We had an outstanding display against Manchester United last weekend and I
hope that the players will be able to maintain that level of performance and
help us come away with all three points when we face Stoke on Saturday.
It is never easy going to Old Trafford but we got a well deserved point and
it so easily could have been all three. The fact that we are disappointed
about only coming away with a draw shows how far we have come over the last
decade. It has been amazing for us to win four big away games and now get a
draw with Manchester United. We are currently having a bad run of injuries
but we shouldn't be too disappointed and other clubs have their times when
injuries pile up. But the skill is to battle through. In the past we would
have injuries like this and be decimated. But if you look at the line-up
against Stoke it will still be a team full of quality. We also have a few
players coming back from injury. Alex Song started his first Premier League
game of the season last weekend and has added to the strength of the squad.
Fingers crossed Enner Valencia is very close to making a first-team return
and it gives the opportunities for players like Michail Antonio who has been
waiting patiently for his chance and it was great to see him playing against
Manchester United.
We know we are facing another tough game today against a Stoke side who will
be full of confidence following their victory over Manchester City last
weekend. There is no doubt they will be a challenge. But we are also a good
side and I am sure the players will be confident they can come away with a
victory.
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West Ham v Stoke
12 December 2015
Last updated at 18:01
By Caroline Chapman
BBC Sport
West Ham were held by Stoke in a scrappy but entertaining goalless draw. The
visitors produced an impressive attacking display to beat Manchester City
last week, but could not find the same form again. Marco van Ginkel, brought
in for the injured Xherdan Shaqiri, had Stoke's best chance in the first
half but he put wide from close range. West Ham enjoyed more action in front
of goal but they were denied time after time by Stoke goalkeeper Jack
Butland. It means the Hammers have now gone six games without a win in the
league - their last victory coming against Chelsea on 24 October - although
they have picked up four draws in that period. Stoke City have now kept
seven clean sheets in their last nine Premier League games. The draw saw the
hosts slip one place to eighth while the Potters remain 11th.
Stoke were dealt a blow before the game when Shaqiri was ruled out with a
hamstring strain, and they lacked the attacking prowess they showed in their
2-0 win last weekend. Van Ginkel should have done better when he scuffed
wide from Ibrahim Afellay's pass in the first half, while substitute Mame
Diouf nearly won it at the end when he went one-on-one with keeper Adrian,
who saved with his feet. Bojan was ineffective up-front, having only two
shots all game, while Marko Arnautovic failed to produce the same finishing
that saw him score twice against Man City. Although they lacked attacking
flair, their defence was solid once again, with Butland making eight saves.
West Ham have been hit by a number of injuries to key players in recent
weeks - the latest casualties Winston Reid and Victor Moses joining Dimitri
Payet, Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini on the sidelines. Manager Slaven
Bilic called upon Michail Antonio to make his first Premier League start,
and the former Nottingham Forest attacking midfielder impressed for the
Hammers. The 25-year-old had five shots on goal - more than any other player
on the pitch - but failed to put it past an in-form Butland. Andy Carroll
made a menace of himself up front, and engaged in a physical battle with
defender Ryan Shawcross, but the big England striker was not able to find
the killer touch, with only two shots on target.
Man of the match Jack Butland
Michail Antonio looked decent for West Ham, but the plaudits go to Stoke
goalkeeper Jack Butland for keeping his seventh clean sheet of the season
Manager reaction
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic: "Both teams defended well. We hit the post twice
and they did once. I'm not happy with the result but it was a fair result.
"Considering the effort we put in I can't be unhappy with my team. "I can't
be happier with our spirit and togetherness and resilience and, at times,
our quality."
Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "We're reasonably pleased with the draw. "I
thought we defended really well. Both teams will be comfortable with the
point. That's something we can build on. "[The clean sheet record] is a base
and platform to build on. West Ham are a good team and as the home side we
knew it was a test for us."
The stats you need to know
No keeper has kept more clean sheets in the Premier League than Jack Butland
this campaign (seven, level with Joe Hart). He also has the best
saves-to-shots ratio in the Premier League so far in 2015-16 (82.5%).
The Potters have not conceded a Premier League goal while Ryan Shawcross has
been on the pitch this season (497 minutes).
West Ham have won just two of their last nine Premier League home games (W2
D4 L3), but are unbeaten in the last six.
The Hammers have kept back-to-back clean sheets twice this season. They also
did it against Liverpool and Newcastle in August/September.
What next?
West Ham face managerless Swansea at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday, 20
December while Stoke welcome Crystal palace the day before.
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West Ham 0-0 Stoke: Draw extends Hammers' winless run
By Stephen Turner
Last Updated: 12/12/15 6:09pm
SSN
West Ham's winless run has been extended to six matches, after a goalless
draw at home to Stoke. A total of three goals in those six games suggests
Slaven Bilic's side are missing key attackers, and the better chances were
created by visitors looking for a fourth win in five Premier League games.
Both sides hit the frame of the goal after half-time, and either might have
won it during a chaotic final period, but neither did enough to warrant a
win which might have taken them into the top six. Stoke arrived on the back
of a victory over Manchester City that brought comparisons with Europe's
best, but their rebranding as 'Stokealona' seemed a touch premature on the
evidence of an open and occasionally ragged game. They had their moments,
Ibrahim Afellay creating two early chances for Marco van Ginkel, who
squandered the first when he opted to go feet-first at what would have been
a free header six yards out. The second was a sitter, shanked wide of the
near post, and Marko Arnautovic missed the same upright from a similar
distance after Afellay and Glen Johnson opened up West Ham's left-hand side.
The home side's list of absentees is well-documented, but they summoned a
forgotten man for a first start as Michail Antonio - subject of a spoof
'missing persons' poster recently - was given a first start more than three
months after a £7m transfer from Nottingham Forest. The winger's unrefined
menace was West Ham's likeliest source of a first-half breakthrough, and a
second-half snapshot stung Jack Butland's palms on what was an encouraging
full debut. Andy Carroll's team-mates adapted to his style in the second
half, but twice he was denied clean headers at goal by decent Stoke
defending, and the best chances continued to come at the other end.
Arnautovic's free-kick clipped Cheikhou Kouyate before cannoning the
crossbar and substitute Mame Diouf, on with Jon Walters as the Barca
blueprint was reworked in search of a winner, side-footed Johnson's pass
straight at Adrian.
Diouf repeated the trick in the last minute when a perfect Arnautovic ball
sent him through, but West Ham gave as good as they got in a five-minute
ding-dong at the end, and Butland was beaten when Mauro Zarate's shot bent
back to hit his left-hand post. The goalkeeper's impressive assurance
deserted him in added time as he spilled a corner, but Stoke's massed
defence came to his aid as Kouyate's header was kept out on the goal-line.
Player ratings
West Ham: Adrian (8), Tomkins (7), Collins (7), Ogbonna (6), Cresswell (7),
Noble (6), Song (7), Kouyate (7), Antonio (7), Zarate (6), Carroll (6)
Subs used: Valencia (6), Jelavic (5)
Stoke: Butland (7), Johnson (7), Shawcross (7), Wollscheid (8), Pieters (7),
Cameron (7), van Ginkel (5), Whelan (6), Afellay (6), Arnautovic (7), Bojan
(7)
Subs used: Diouf (5), Walters (5), Adam (5)
Man of the match: Philipp Wollscheid (Stoke)
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Michail Antonio good enough for West Ham, Slaven Bilic says
By Stephen Turner
Last Updated: 12/12/15 6:39pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic said Michail Antonio "proved he is a West Ham player" after
finally getting his first start against Stoke. The winger was a £7m
deadline-day signing from Nottingham Forest but has played so little that
West Ham fans recently circulated a spoof 'missing persons' poster of him. A
long injury list gave Antonio his chance against City, and he was lively and
energetic in an open goalless draw. Bilic afterwards told Sky Sports: "He
did well, especially in terms of quantity - how many times he went up there,
balls he recovered. He was very direct. "He proved today he's a West Ham
player and he's good enough. We expected that from him. He waited a long
time to get a chance but he did really well today."
West Ham have not won in six games, but four of those have been drawn and
their manager was happy with the performance of a side missing the likes of
Dimiti Payet, Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid. "We have to be realistic," he
said. "Considering the team we put out - a good team, but considering the
players missing and their quaity and their positions I have to be happy with
the way we played. "We battle on, and the only way we're going to make this
period easier is the way we played today - with a lot of energy and miles in
the legs."
Both teams had chances to win the game, Cheikhou Kouyate having a header
cleared off the line in the final seconds. "It was that [kind of] moment
that is very important not just for the game but for a whole season
sometimes. You need those added time goals. We had a good opportunity and it
would have been brilliant, but a draw is a fair result."
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WEST HAM 0, STOKE CITY 0. FINE UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES.
By David Hautzig 12 Dec 2015 at 18:48
WTID
For the record, I categorically dismiss The Warren Report and do not believe
Lee Harvey Oswald was the only gunman that day in Dallas. I happen to
subscribe to the theory that a secret service agent accidentally fired the
third and fatal shot. Ballistics and math seem to back that up better than
any other theory. As conspiracy theories go, who killed JFK is probably the
most debated of all time. Why West Ham suffer so many injuries isn't quite
as intriguing to the general public, but among us the debate is almost as
heated. Slaven Bilic thinks Chadwell Heath is the shot from The Grassy
Knoll, and has moved training to Rush Green. Too late to help Winston Reid,
the latest to fall. Going into today's match at Upton Park, how Bilic dealt
with that was the question that I felt would decide the match. And overall,
I think he dealt with it quite well.
West Ham looked to be off to a good start in the third minute when Noble
passed to Carroll, who then found Kouyate 20 yards from goal but his long
shot was put out for a corner by Butland. The ensuing set piece came out to
Antonio, who controlled nicely with his chest before trying his luck from 20
yards. It needed more than luck and Butland made an easy save.
Stoke had won four of their previous five games, and it was easy to see why
for much of the first half. In the 9th minute, Afellay broke down the right
and sent a low cross into the box. Both Adrian and van Ginkel hesitated
going for the ball and crashed into each other as the ball flew past them
and out for a corner after a slight touch by the West Ham keeper. Adrian
looked a bit shaken up, and with our luck I was shocked he didn't break his
leg and lacerate his kidney.
Stoke should have gone in front in the 11th minute when Afellay was on the
receiving end of a throw deep in the West Ham area. He ran along the end
line and tried a tight angle shot that bounce out to van Ginkel. Seven yards
out from goal, with nobody close enough to smell him, he somehow managed to
put his shot into the ground and bounce it wide for a goal kick.
Stoke continued on the front foot, and in the 17th minute Bojan made a run
on the left and found Afellay at the top of the box. The Dutchman shifted to
his left before attempting a shot that was deflected out for a corner by
Collins. The corner was cleared in a joint effort by Tomkins and the corner
flag, the latter of which got in the way of the initial attempt. Who needs a
12th man when you have a corner flag like that?
I remember one night many years ago, I was getting ready to go out with "the
fellas" in Manhattan. I was 24, and most of them were in there 30's. I
commented that I must be a pretty mature 24 to be able to hang out with
them. "Well, you do sometimes act like a 24 year old. But that's
understandable because you are 24" replied my friend. As I watched Antonio
embark on his West Ham career in earnest, I reminded myself of kind of the
same theme in the 24th minute when he took a pass from Noble at midfield,
turned on his man, and broke free into the Stoke half. But with Carroll
lurking in the middle Antonio dribbled into trouble and lost possession. It
wasn't the first time he did that in the first half, and it won't be the
last. But that's understandable because he is young and inexperienced at
this level.
Stoke had another great opportunity in the 27th minute when Afellay fed
Johnson on the right. Johnson got behind Cresswell and sent a low cross into
the box for Arnautovic but the Austrian was a bit too wide when he let his
shot go and thus so was his attempt. On another day, that's possibly a Stoke
goal.
Andre Mariner showed the first yellow of the match in the 39th minute when
Pieters was booked for a foul on Kouyate. Zarate stepped up to take the free
kick from 30 yards out, and put the ball into the danger zone where Collins
had two weak attempts that Butland eventually smothered.
The guys on The Football Ramble podcast said that Stoke have not conceded a
goal this season with Ryan Shawcross on the pitch. The 43rd minute could
have changed that when Noble stepped in front of an errant Shawcross pass
and ran in on goal. Shawcross tracked back and appeared to bring Noble down
inside the box. Mariner signaled for a corner, and replays showed it was
probably the correct call. A minute later Shawcross was called for a foul on
Carroll just outside the box, but Zarate's free kick went off the wall and
out for a corner that amounted to absolutely nothing.
In added time, Song sent Cresswell down the left and the West Ham left back
sent a low cross into the box that Antonio tried to get to but van Ginkel
reached it first to send it out for yet another corner wasted by a poor West
Ham delivery.
Halftime. West Ham 0, Stoke 0.
Could it be possible that both Bilic and the squad have taken the call for
more football to be played on the ground a bit too seriously? Meaning, if
you try it for 45 minutes and it gets you nowhere, there's no shame in
trying to cross the ball from out wide to your big man every so often. It
doesn't mean you're all of a sudden a 19th Century team.
Ahem.
In the 49th minute, Zarate sent what felt like the first cross into the box
intended for The Big Man all game. And somehow Carroll got to it despite
being covered on all sides and sent a header on goal that Butland put out
for a corner.
The next ten minutes seemed to show the strategy both managers wanted to use
in the second half. West Ham were going to be a bit more direct, and Stoke
were going to use quick passes in the midfield to open up runs down the
flanks.
West Ham's strategy almost paid dividends in the 61st minute when a former
manger special, a long ball from deep inside the West Ham end, somehow
bounced through the Stoke back line and into the path of Antonio, who
twisted is body to get a half volley off and force a save from Butland.
Moments later, Stoke tried to show their way was better when Afellay ran
down the right and fed Arnautovic in the box who sent a low strike that
Adrian did well to save.
In the 63rd minute, Zarate ran down a ball on the left that he did
everything he could do to lose control of and eventually crossed to Carroll,
but the header was as soft as his Man Bun and posed no threat to Stoke.
Moments later, an Afellay foul on Kouyate gave West Ham a free kick from 30
yards out. It might as well have been from 30 miles. Out for a goal kick.
The woodwork helped both sides today. West Ham were the beneficiary in the
67th minute when Stoke were awarded a free kick from 35 yards out.
Arnautovic can hit them from distance, and he tried to. It deflected off the
wall and struck the crossbar. The ball came out to Bojan, but his shot
sailed high over the bar.
Without Payet and Lanzini, Zarate is by far our most creative attacking
option. But when he is in that spot without the help of either of the
aforementioned two, he tries to do too much. In the 70th minute he did well
to get the ball on his right foot after a scramble on the left and send a
cross into Carroll. Pieters defended it well and turned what could have been
a great chance into a not so great half chance. A minute later, Zarate had
possession, cut to his right and rolled a pass to Noble but the Captain's
shot attempt was high. Minutes later, Zarate fed Cresswell on the left.
Instead of a cross, Cresswell tried to fool Butland with a side-footed shot
and it almost worked, forcing Butland to put the ball out for the first of
two corners. But for the 873rd time in the match…only a slight
exaggeration…West Ham's delivery from a corner was awful.
In the 80th, Stoke broke on the kind of speedy counterattack that they have
become known for this season. Bojan ran with the ball into space, while
Diouf broke into the box. Bojan fed Diouf near the back post, and the second
half sub looked likely to fire Stoke into the lead. But Adrian came up with
a fine save.
Lumber came to Stokes rescue two minutes later when Zarate cut to his right
along the top of the box. Then he did it again. And again. Finally, when he
created just a bit of space, he sent a low shot in on goal that clanged off
the post in what was West Ham's best chance of the game. The ball came back
into the box moments later, with Carroll and Valencia combining to force a
save from Butland.
After all of the missed chances last week at Old Trafford, I'm glad it will
be Stoke supporters who shake their heads all week wondering how they didn't
score in the 89th minute when Bojan passed to Arnautovic, who then found
Diouf in the box all alone in front of Adrian. But perhaps it was a case of
the jitters, because Diouf didn't look set when the ball came to him and he
shot right at Adrian.
The final chance in added time belonged to the home side when Zarate took a
corner and lofted it into the box. Butland came off his line to gather it
up, but it slipped through him and eventually came to Kouyate in front of
goal. His header was cleared off the line by any number of Stoke defenders
back to protect their away point.
Final Score. West Ham 0, Stoke 0.
Yesterday, when I asked Nigel Kahn what he expected today, his return text
was pretty ominous. "Prepare for defeat. I'll take a point". But he was
correct. To be as decimated by injuries as we are, and to play one of the
in-form sides in England, to expect victory would have been to invite
disappointment. The fact that Bilic made only offensive substitutions was
encouraging, as was our ability to get a draw while trying to get the win.
We are a side just trying to hold down the castle and not slide too far back
while we await our injured to return.
And under that light, we are doing OK.
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West Ham United 0-0 Stoke City: 5 things we learned as Hammers' home
struggles continue
16:52, 12 DEC 2015 UPDATED 17:25, 12 DEC 2015
BY DAVID ANDERSON
It's now just two wins from eight Premier League home games for Slaven
Bilic's side this campaign as injuries take their toll
The Mirror
West Ham's move to the Olympic Park cannot come soon enough as they continue
to struggle to win games at Upton Park. They may be impressive on the road,
but this stalemate makes it just two victories from their eight Premier
League home games this season, although Mauro Zarate did hit the post late
on. The goals have dried up and this second successive goalless draw means
they have managed just three in their last six games. Their many injuries up
front are taking their toll and they are missing the goal threat of the
likes of Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini. Stoke created enough chances to
win and Marco van Ginkel, Mame Biram Diouf and Marko Arnautovic missed
opportunities, while the Austrian also saw a free-kick deflected against the
bar.
1) Antonio needs more opportunities
Michail Antonio deserves a proper chance at West Ham. Antonio looked
promising on his first start for the Hammers and he showed good pace down
the right, even if his final ball was sometimes lacking. He scored four
goals in five appearances for Nottingham Forest this season before his
deadline-day £7million switch and he demonstrated against Stoke that he can
contribute for West Ham - given the opportunity.
2) Potters are the clean sheet experts
Stoke could play Scrooge in this season's Christmas panto. They really are
the Premier League meanies and this clean sheet was their sixth in their
last seven games. Ryan Shawcross was as resolute as ever and the Potters
have still to concede a Premier League goal this season with him on the
pitch. Bah, humbug!
3) Hammers' home woes continue
West Ham still can't win at home. The Hammers have been excellent on the
road, winning at Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City, but they cannot
repeat that form at Upton Park because playing on the counter suits them so
well.
4) Arnautovic still needs to do more to make his Mark
Marko Arnautovic needs to be more consistent. Arnautovic was brilliant
against Manchester City last Saturday, but he was not so dazzling today. He
missed a great chance to score, although he nearly atoned when he saw a
free-kick deflected against the bar.
5) Injury woes continue to take their toll on Hammers
West Ham needed their injured players back fast. They created little against
Stoke and are badly missing the creativity and firepower from the likes of
Victor Moses, Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini.
Player ratings - by David Anderson
West Ham
Adrian 8 - MOTM. Made two fine stops with his feet late on to deny Diouf.
Tomkins 6 - Did well up against Arnautovic on the right side of the Hammers
defence.
Ogbonna 6 - Solid and composed at the heart of the West Ham defence.
Collins 6 - Replaced the injured Reid and threw himself in the way of
everything.
Cresswell 6 - Tried to overlap and almost caught Butland out with a
cross-cum-shot.
Song 7 - Tigerish tackler in the middle of the park and drove West Ham on.
Noble 6 - Played in by Shawcross' errant pass, but was too slow to make it
count.
Antonio 6 - Showed signs on his first start to suggest he warrants more of a
chance.
Kouyate 7 - Booked. Hit an early drive, which was saved by Butland, and got
stuck in.
Zarate 7 - Delivered a teasing cross for a Carroll header and shot against
the post.
Carroll 7 - Had a diving header saved by Butland and had a bruising physical
battle with Shawcross.
Subs:
Valencia (Song 63mins) 6
Jelavic (Antonio 83mins)
Subs not used: Randolph, Jenkinson, Obiang, Oxford, Cullen.
Stoke City
Butland 7 - Made a few decent stops and dealt with everything thrown at him.
Johnson 7 - Got forward well down the right and created a great chance for
Arnautovic.
Shawcross 7 - Great tackle on Noble after losing the ball and stood up to
Carroll's threat.
Wollscheid 7 - Fine goal-saving clearance to intercept a cross for Antonio.
Pieters 6 - Booked. Enjoyed a good battle with Antonio on his left flank.
Whelan 6 - Won his tackles to screen Stoke's back four effectively.
Cameron 6 - Produced great skill to lift the ball over Song and leave him in
his wake.
Van Ginkel 5 - Dragged a left foot shot wide when he should have scored.
Afellay 7 - Booked. Created Van Ginkel's opportunity and had a shot
deflected over.
Arnautovic 6 - Awful miss when he shot wide before seeing a free-kick
deflected onto the bar.
Bojan 6 - Put in a shift as he flitted between the wings to spearhead
Stoke's attack.
Subs:
Diouf (van Ginkel 55mins) 5
Walters (Afellay 66mins) 6
Adam (Cameron 68mins) 6.
Subs not used: Haugaard, Bardsley, Joselu, Wilson.
Referee: Andre Marriner Att: 34,857
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This player's day may be done at Upton Park
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 12, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
So here we were with an injury list extending to some of the best players
we've seen at the club in many a long year and what does Slav do? He leaves
a highly expensive loanee on the bench preferring instead to opt for
defensive solidarity rather than risk the sort of mistakes we suffered in
what may soon be known as the 'Jenkinson era.' For further injuries apart
it's already difficult to see how the bloke will be able to find his way
back into the side particularly with Tomkins having said in an interview
that he is "learning the job."I must admit that I was more than a little
surprised when I looked at the line up. I'd almost taken it for granted that
with Winston out, JT would slot in alongside Ogbonna and that the Gooner
would be back in the team. That instead, Slav chose to bring in Ginge –
fourth choice defender after all – particularly after his sending off, was
a big one to me and spoke volumes. It seems you don't want to blot your
copybook with this manager. There's no easy way back into his teams and
although JT gives us nothing in an attacking sense it's notable that we have
kept two clean sheets with him in the right back role. Looks to me as though
he's possibly being groomed into the job permanently thus leaving a £40k a
week player, on a £2m loan fee, out in the cold. Slaven Bilic never moans
about anything much, nor it seems does he pay much attention to reputations
from previous seasons. Maybe I'm reading too much into this but I reckon
Arsene Wenger's £15 million right back's day may be done at Upton Park.
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Man of the Match Antonio well pleased
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 12, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Michail Antonio answered most of the questions asked by us when he made his
debut for the Irons against Stoke this afternoon. And to be named Man of the
Match was the icing on the cake of a dream day for the £7 million signing
from Nottingham Forest. He was on it from the start and a familiar buzz of
excitement started to rumble around the ground as we realised this was a guy
who had power, pace and the ability to turn very quickly, leaving defenders
for dead. Ok, the final ball wasn't always there but we saw enough to
understand that this guy has an awful lot to offer. He commented afterwards:
"It felt unbelievable to get a chance. This was my boyhood dream to play in
the Premier League and I've managed that."I got Man of the Match on my first
start so hopefully I can keep pushing on and doing well. Playing at Old
Trafford last week set me up well for this game. It showed me the level of
the league and it was a good 50 minutes."
"We hit the post with Mauro Zarate as well, so we definitely have the
attacking threat, it's just putting it in the back of the net.
"For my chance in the second half, it came over the top and I volleyed it,
but just hit it straight at him. Hopefully in the next game I can put it in
the back of the net."
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Tough times but Irons show real steel
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 12, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Match Verdict
Irons 0 Stoke City 0
OK first things first… I have absolutely no complaints with that! We showed
some steel in rough circumstances. Many will be saying that Stoke City at
home is a game we should win but they'd be wrong because this is a team
which has won four of their last seven league games and seriously put
Manchester City to the sword last weekend. With so many key players missing
from the Irons line up and although never at our best as a result, we could
have won a game from which both teams can take some credit.
The harshest critics out there will be pointing to another draw as a
failure. I see it as a very noteworthy result, another clean sheet and
enough chances to win it. Michail Antonio on debut gave hints as to why we'd
spent £7 million with some sweet turns at pace and – by the way – he has one
hell of a long throw. Michail AntonioHe produced some of our best moments
but is ring rusty and failed to find the final ball and, on one occasion,
the finish, in front of goal. However a very promising prospect.
Shorn of Payet and Lanzini, Mauro Zarate – whilst clearly having some flaws
in his game – produced some fabulous moments and was unlucky when for the
second week on the trot he hit a post after a fine run across the face of
the Stoke defence. In truth, City had the more dangerous chances and Adrian
was twice called on to save with his feet from close range when all looked
lost. Our squad is being taken apart by injuries but that's another game
gone and another week nearer getting one of two back. Like I say, no
complaints.
Alex Song is coming back but still looked a bit off the pace whilst Manu
Lanzini could be back next week according to the manager. The other pleasing
aspect of today's game was that we showed we can get on the front foot and
attack teams but sadly there wasn't quite enough imagination to break down a
dour defence. Whilst our inventive players are absent there has to be an
alternative and once the ball went into Carroll's head on one or two
occasions in the second period we looked dangerous. We don't want a return
to the old ways but carefully used – as was the case against Chelsea – it's
a potent weapon. Onwards and upwards with lowly Swansea – beaten at the
Etihad – next on the agenda. Keep the faith – keep believing. The lads did
well in difficult circumstances.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, December 13
Saturday, December 12
Daily WHUFC News - 12th December 2015
Preview - Stoke City
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United will look to end their five-game wait for a victory when
they play host to Stoke City at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. After
claiming the scalp of Chelsea in October, three draws and two defeats have
followed, although the Hammers were unfortunate not to beat Manchester
United last time out. Only the post stood in their way of a famous Old
Trafford victory, and Slaven Bilic's men will have taken great confidence
from their trip to the north west. Stoke City, meanwhile, have been in fine
from recently, having won three of their last four fixtures. Last weekend
they defeated Manchester City 2-0, while Southampton and Chelsea have also
come up short against the Potters in the last month. Mark Hughes' side are
currently eleventh in the table, a point behind the Hammers in a congested
top half.
The history
The Hammers have met Stoke on 92 occasions previously, winning 35 and losing
33 of those matches. However, the Londoners have not defeated the Potters in
either of the last two seasons, drawing both meetings last term and losing
both the year before. Last season West Ham were 2-0 down against Stoke at
the Britannia Stadium, but goals from Enner Valencia and Stewart Downing
drew them level. The boot was on the other foot at the Boleyn Ground, when
Aaron Cresswell's free kick was cancelled out by an injury time goal from
Marko Arnautovic.
The match
Team news
West Ham United
The Hammers will be without at least five players on Saturday, with Victor
Moses, Winston Reid (both hamstring), Diafra Sakho, Manuel Lanzini (both
thigh) and Dimitri Payet (ankle) all injured. Enner Valencia has also been
out for the last month, but has returned to training this week.
Stoke City
For Stoke, defender Marc Muniesa is expected to return after missing the
last six games with a hamstring injury. However, strikers Peter Crouch and
Peter Odemwingie are out, as is goalkeeper Shay Given.
Match info
Saturday's referee is Andre Marriner, and he will be assisted by Scott
Ledger and Eddie Smart. Keith Hill is the fourth official.
West Ham have gone five league matches without a win (D3, L2).
Stoke have lost just two of their last 10 league matches (W6, D2).
They have kept six clean sheets in their eight most recent league games.
However, they have only scored six goals in their last 10 matches away from
home in the Premier League.
The Potters are the joint-lowest scorers in the top flight, along with Aston
Villa, having managed just 13 goals in 15 games.
Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info
Tickets for this match have SOLD OUT.
A showery day is expected on Saturday, with temperatures reaching a high of
12C (54F).
There are no closures planned on the District and Hammersmith & City lines
serving Upton Park station. Click here for full information on TfL services
and here for National Rail.
If you're not heading to the match, make sure you follow all the action on
our digital channels. Our live Match Centre has audio commentary, in-running
stats, text updates the best pictures and more, while you can get involved
in the conversation on social using the hashtag #WHUSTK
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tony Carr MBE celebrates with international group!
WHUFC.com
Club Ambassador Tony Carr MBE was on hand to celebrate with a visiting
Malaysian group who were in London as part of the Foundation's international
work. The 1MCC group from Kuala Lumpur has a long standing relationship with
the Foundation and visit annually to receive a full West Ham United
experience. After a wonderful two weeks with the Foundation, the group were
joined by Club legend Tony Carr MBE to hand out awards and celebrate the
achievements of the young group during their time in the capital. He offered
words of encouragement to the participants and explained how they need to
stay dedicated to the sport if they are to be successful and play
professional football one day. "I'm glad to hear you've enjoyed a fantastic
two weeks with the West Ham United Foundation! I've been told that there are
some really talented players among you and I think it's crucial to take the
lessons you have learnt here, back to Malaysia and really work hard at them.
"It's a very demanding task becoming a Premier League footballer and I know
many of you have a dream of becoming one in years to come. Hopefully during
your time here at the Foundation you've developed your ability as
footballers, as well as improving your English language skills and can take
great confidence from this experience."
Foundation staff was on hand to treat the visitors to an array of fun
activities during their two weeks, including a Stadium tour, a matchday
experience, excursions to London and competitive matches against the West
Ham Academy and Kicks teams to name but a few. The group were lucky enough
to see behind the scenes at the First Team training ground at Chadwell Heath
where they caught a glimpse of what the everyday life of a Premier League
footballer looks like. During their time at Chadwell, the young Malaysian
group had the opportunity to meet some of the West Ham United Ladies players
who put their English language skills to the test by requesting a rendition
of I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles. After an impeccable vocal performance, it
was time for the group to take to the field against a young Academy side,
where their progress over the two weeks saw them edge their way to victory
in a close encounter. Foundation Football Development Manager, Bryan Glover
was delighted at the developing partnership and stressed the importance of
the Foundation's international work. "This is another great example of our
fantastic international programme which invites people from across the world
to come and receive a full West Ham United experience. We have a great
relationship with 1MCC and it's been brilliant to have them over once again.
"The young participants have applied themselves fantastically well during
the time they have been here and it's great to have Tony Carr come down and
offer them an idea of what it takes to become a professional footballer.
"Some of them are taking part in things that they'd never get the
opportunity to experience and our partnership with 1MCC has enabled us to
really make some dreams come true these last few weeks!"
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Prices slashed for Wolves tie
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that ticket prices have been
reduced for the Emirates FA Cup third round visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers
to the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers will host the Championship side at 3pm on
Saturday 9 January 2016, embarking on what the Club hopes will be a fourth
successful challenge for the world's most-famous knockout competition. Adult
ticket prices for this mouth-watering FA Cup tie have been reduced to £20
for Season Ticket Holders and £25 for non-Season Ticket Holders in all
Bands. Over-65s and Under-21s ticket prices have been set at £10 for Season
Ticket Holders and £15 for non-Season Ticket Holders in all Bands. Under-16
Season Ticket Holders can secure a seat for just £5, while Under-16
non-Season Ticket Holder seats are priced at £10 each. Tickets are on sale
to Season Ticket Holders now, with a priority window being open until 9am on
Tuesday 15 December. Buy now here! Tickets will be on sale to Academy
Members from 9am on Tuesday 15 December, with a General Sale starting from
9am on Thursday 17 December. West Ham have met Wolves twice previously in
the FA Cup, both times at Molineux - a 5-1 second round win in February
1910, in which George Webb scored a hat-trick, and a 3-1 fourth round
victory in January 2004. The Hammers are three-time FA Cup winners, having
lifted the trophy in 1964, 1975 and 1980, while Wolves have won it four
times, doing so in 1893, 1908, 1949 and 1960.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham V Stoke
KO 15:00
11 December 2015
Last updated at 11:58
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 12 December
TEAM NEWS
Winston Reid and Victor Moses have joined West Ham's lengthy injury list
after being ruled out until the new year with hamstring problems. The
Hammers are already without Dimitri Payet, Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini,
although Enner Valencia could return.
Stoke defender Marc Muniesa is expected to be involved after missing the
last six games with a hamstring injury. The Potters remain without strikers
Peter Crouch and Peter Odemwingie and goalkeeper Shay Given.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Alistair Bruce-Ball: "Stoke produced one of the most thrilling performances
of the season last Saturday in beating Manchester City, and it will be
interesting to see if Mark Hughes is bold enough to unleash his front three
of Bojan, Xherdan Shaqiri and Marko Arnautovic again. The Potters are just
one point behind West Ham, having taken 10 points from their last five
games, while the Hammers have managed just three points in that time as
injuries have taken their toll. "If Mauro Zarate had kept his cool they
could have snatched a win at Old Trafford last weekend, but will they be
able to trouble Stoke's stonewall defence without the likes of Payet, Sakho
and Lanzini?"
Twitter: @alibruceball
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "It's going to be hard without players like
Lanzini, Payet, Moses and Sakho, but we played without almost all of them
against Manchester United and still we created enough chances to score
goals. "As I said, when all the players were available it was also about the
squad. Now, we have a tinier squad but it's time for those those players to
step up."
Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "After a performance and result like that
[against Manchester City], there's been a real crackle about the group and
some banter. You sense a lot of confidence. "But the challenge is being able
to do it week in, week out, not just in one-off games. "You've got to be
able to go up against teams at the bottom, as we saw against Sunderland,
where we didn't really start the game as well as we should have done."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
I was at Old Trafford last week for West Ham's 0-0 draw with Manchester
United and was very impressed with Slaven Bilic's side. Stoke were also very
impressive as they beat Manchester City last week, and it will be
interesting to see if they go for it on Saturday as much as they did in that
win. Stoke have not conceded a league goal while Ryan Shawcross has been on
the pitch this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Stoke are unbeaten in four league meetings with West Ham (W2, D2).
The Hammers have won just once at home in their last five league meetings
(D2, L2).
West Ham
West Ham have gone five league matches without a win (D3, L2).
However, they are unbeaten in their last five league games at home, winning
two and drawing three.
Their clean sheet against Manchester United last weekend was their first in
10 league matches.
After scoring an average of 2.2 goals per game in their first 10 league
matches, they have averaged just 0.6 in their last five.
The injured Dimitri Payet created 47 goalscoring chances in the Premier
League this season - no other West Ham player has created more than 19.
Stoke
Stoke have lost just two of their last 10 league matches (W6, D2).
They have kept six clean sheets in their eight most recent league games.
However, they have only scored six goals in their last 10 matches away from
home in the Premier League.
The Potters are the joint-lowest scorers in the top flight, along with Aston
Villa, having managed just 13 goals in 15 games.
Marko Arnautovic has scored in both of his Premier League appearances
against West Ham.
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Moncur's backing Bilic
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 11th December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Hammers cult hero John Moncur has admitted he's not been surprised with the
impact his former teammate Slaven Bilic has had at West Ham since his
arrival. In a wide-ranging interview in Blowing Bubbles Monthly, Moncur, who
joined West Ham from Swindon in June 1994 for £1m, believes Bilic is the
right man to take West Ham forward to an exciting future in the Olympic
Stadium.
"He certainly was the one [candidate] that stood out for me because I know
him, I played with him. He's a great lad," the 49-year-old explained. "He
had all the experience to come in and do the job that he is doing. He was a
good international manager, and he likes to play the West Ham way. "I think
he has proven that he has got good recruitment skills, that he has the right
people round him and that he knows the European market as well as English
players. I think he has done a great job and it doesn't surprise me that he
has done so well up to now.
"I think he is going to be the one to take us onto the new chapter when we
move into the new stadium. I think the project over five years if we stick
with him, the club will be in healthy hands."
Elsewhere in this month's issue, George Parris writes in his exclusive
column that Manuel Lanzini's injury is as big a blow as losing Dimitri
Payet. "He's scored some crucial goals already, and took his goal against
Spurs very well, and you just thought he was starting to step out of Payet's
shadow," he wrote. "With no Payet until 2016, we needed him to keep scoring,
creating chances, and playing well but his injury is very cruel on Slaven
Bilic."
Meanwhile, Sky Sports' Bianca Westwood believes now is a brilliant time to
be born into West Ham's brave new world following the arrival of her nephew,
but admitted there was a time she didn't want any child of hers, niece or
nephew to support West Ham. Blowing Bubbles' writers also give their views
on whether or not it's time for the Premier League to consider a winter
break, and if it's time we stopped taking Karren Brady for granted. The
latest issue of Blowing Bubbles Monthly is now available to read for FREE on
your computer, tablet or mobile phone.
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West Ham v Stoke preview: Slaven Bilic faces growing injury problems
By James Walker-Roberts
Last Updated: 11/12/15 1:48pm
Ssn
Injury-hit West Ham will be looking to end a five-match winless run when
they host Stoke on Saturday. The Hammers have lost a number of first-team
players to injuries in recent weeks, with defender Winston Reid and winger
Victor Moses the latest to be sidelined. They have not won a match since
Dimitri Payet suffered an ankle problem against Everton and they are in
danger of falling away from the top six. While the Hammers have not won in
the last five, Stoke have won four of their last five in all competitions.
After their impressive victory over Manchester City last weekend they were
dubbed 'Stokealona' by Barcelona-based newspaper La Vanguardia in
recognition of the entertaining football they produced.
We look at 10 questions that could be answered by the end of the weekend.
They would move above the Hammers in the table if they win at Upton Park.
Team news
Reid and Moses are out until the new year with hamstring injuries and join
Payet (ankle), Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini (both thigh) on the
sidelines. But forward Enner Valencia could return to the squad if he passes
a late fitness test on the ankle injury which has kept him out for five
weeks.
Stoke could have fit-again defender Marc Muniesa back in the squad after the
Spaniard missed the last six first-team games in all competitions while
recovering from a hamstring injury. He has returned to full training and
played for the Under-21s but forwards Peter Crouch and Peter Odemwingie
(both hamstring) and goalkeeper Shay Given (knee) remain sidelined.
Opta stats
Marko Arnautovic has scored in both of his Premier League appearances
against West Ham.
Stoke have not conceded a Premier League goal while Ryan Shawcross has been
on the pitch this season (407 minutes).
Stoke have the lowest chance conversion in the top flight this season,
scoring with just 10.6% of their attempts.
Stoke's Premier League games have seen just 27 goals scored this season -
fewer than any other club.
The injured Payet has created 47 goalscoring chances for West Ham in the
Premier League this season - no other Hammers player has created more than
19
Paul Merson's prediction
It was a fantastic result for Stoke the other day [against Manchester City],
and with West Ham getting all these injuries and stumbling slightly, I can
see Stoke compounding the misery. They're starting to click; Arnautovic,
Shaqiri, Afellay and Bojan clicked against Man City and looked like the
Harlem Globetrotters. When they all connect they're so good, but they can
also be the other way, a bit soft. But I don't like going against them,
they're a good team, and this would be a big win for them if they want to
look towards the top six or seven.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2
Betting
West Ham are the 6/4 favourites with Sky Bet for victory at home while Stoke
are outsiders for the win at 19/10 and the draw can be backed at 11/5. Marko
Arnautovic has scored in both of his Premier League appearances against the
Hammers and the Stoke forward is available at 11/4 to net this weekend. West
Ham striker Andy Carroll heads the first goalscorer odds at 5/1 and the top
prospect from the Potters is Bojan at 13/2.
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham need to show they can overcome obstacles
Last Updated: 11/12/15 2:27pm
Ssn
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says he will not allow his players to use the
club's current injury crisis as an excuse for below-par performances. The
Hammers play host to Stoke on Saturday and are looking to continue their
solid start to the season, which has them sitting seventh in the table.
However, key players Dimitri Payet, Enner Valencia, Diafra Sakho, Manuel
Lanzini, Victor Moses and Winston Reid have all picked up injuries in the
last month, meaning Bilic will have to utilise his squad players in the
coming weeks. But the Hammers boss is confident he has the resources to
cope, and pointed out that a supposedly below-strength side drew 0-0 at
Manchester United last week and could have won. "I'm not trying to find
excuses," said Bilic. "I'm not happy, of course, but I am not trying to be
positive - I am positive. "It's time to show we can overcome these
obstacles. I'm sure we will show we can play without these players. "They
are great players, that's why we got them, and that's why they were playing
regularly, but we have to get through this period without them. "It's going
to be hard without them, but we played without almost all of them against
Manchester United last week and still created enough chances to score goals.
"When they were available, it was all about the squad. Now we have a tinier
squad but it's time for those players who didn't play, with team work and
team spirit, to step up."
The Hammers are now without a win in five and this weekend they play host to
an in-form Stoke side, who beat Manchester City 2-0 last Saturday. "Stoke
played really well against Man City, and not only then, but also Southampton
was a really good away win," said Bilic. "Against Chelsea, and last week
against City, a few of their moves were top-class football, which doesn't
surprise me because up front they have top-quality internationals. "Xherdan
Shaqiri was at Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, big clubs were fighting for
him, so it's credit to (Stoke boss) Mark Hughes for getting him. "The same
happened with Bojan Krkic the year before. "Then they have Marko Arnautovic,
a top-class player, Jonathan Walters, and Mame Biram Diouf on the bench.
They are a good, solid team and much better when t hey attack the space or
counter attack. "I am impressed and it's going to be a very difficult game
for us - but we are also good, of course."
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West Ham fan admits he left his own wedding early to watch match, got a
divorce 18 months later
10:10, 11 DEC 2015 UPDATED 10:12, 11 DEC 2015
BY WILL MAGEE
This guy is a zero on the romance scale but gets a ten for commitment, so it
all balances out really...
The Mirror
Bill Shankly famously said that football isn't a matter of life and death -
it's more important than that. The Liverpool icon was meant to have had his
tongue firmly in his cheek when he uttered those immortal words, but for
some fans that's just about the measure of it. There are some supporters so
fanatical, so ardent, that they'll do almost anything for their club.
They'll make any sacrifice for the sake of the team on matchday. Even if
that sacrifice is their wedding day - and perhaps their marriage, to boot.
We're all for supporter commitment, but this West Ham fan may have gone a
bit far. The gentleman in question called up TalkSport recently to discuss
his love of the Happy Hammers, but then regaled them with this unbelievable
anecdote about how his support for the club basically doomed his nuptials -
mainly because he left his newlywed bride in a registry office so he could
rush off to see the Irons lose 3-1. This is probably the most ridiculous
tale of anti-romance we've ever heard, in all honesty. Though the fan
doesn't explicitly blame the speedy break up of his marriage after only 18
months on his wedding-day indiscretion, the implication is pretty clear.
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Moncur: No problems at Chadwell Heath
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 11, 2015 in News, Whispers C and H
I'm not at all sure that Chadwell Heath is at the bottom of the club's
injury problems. But Slav's decision to move to Rush Green is clever- it's
all about trying to put a couple of per cent on performances and protecting
team spirit. I never suffered a single issue at the training ground in my
time at the club but I remember players who did blame the place. On one
occasion we used the synthetic pitch and you should have heard the moans
about bad backs afterwards. Blimey, I was 35 and had no problem whatsoever,
it's psychological and because we have a clutch of injures people are
looking for a reason. I was brought up playing my football on Hackney
Marshes so Chadwell Heath was brilliant by comparison! Had any of us gone in
moaning to Billy Bonds or Harry Redknapp, they'd have laughed us out the
place. I can imagine that a few of the foreign players have been in to see
Slav and had a little moan-up about things so to protect the squad as best
he can - and also team spirit - the manager has acted. Things may be a bit
more advanced abroad and Slav did mention that one or two players had been
moaning so he's done the clever thing - move on to a place where the pitches
and training facilities are that much better and exclude any reason for back
biting. In these days of sports and science it's all about putting an extra
two or three per cent on performances and if the move down the road does
that then great! I imagine Winston Reid's injury put the tin hat on things
but I remain unconvinced about the taining ground argument. We've had a lot
of rain and guess what, grass gets wet and people slip but Chadwell Heath?
Nah I don't think the grass there is any different to anywhere else.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Matthew Etherington claims Victor Moses hasn't done himself justice at West
Ham United HITC John Verrall
Victor Moses has scored once in 11 appearances for West Ham United. Matthew
Etherington has told the Sentinel that Victor Moses has failed to do himself
justice with his performances at West Ham United so far. Moses made a bright
start to his Hammers career, but he has struggled to make an impact more
recently. And Etherington says that the winger's lack of consistency is now
becoming a worry. "I think he started well at West Ham, but he's gone a bit
quiet to be honest," Etherington, who used to play for West Ham, said. "I
was really excited by his signing personally, but he hasn't really done
himself justice yet. "Like he was at Stoke, I think he's one of those
players with loads of natural talent and it's just a case of doing it
consistently."
Moses' failure to perform to a consistent standard has been one of the major
issues in his career. The Nigerian is one of the most threatening wide-men
in the Premier League on his day, with his pace and power making him a
nightmare to mark. However, he has a tendency to allow his levels to drop,
and that has been one of the reasons why he has struggled to find a
permanent home. Moses has been loaned out by Chelsea for the past three
seasons, and he has spent time at Liverpool and Stoke City prior to his move
to West Ham. Moses has made 11 appearances for Slaven Bilic's, and he has
scored once. He is currently out injured, meaning he will miss the Hammers'
match against Stoke at the weekend.
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Blackburn Rovers boss Paul Lambert gives fitness update on West Ham loanee
Doneil Henry, does not want repeat of season-ending injury HITC Mathew Nash
The Canadian has featured once in the Championship for Rovers. Doneil Henry
is a player who West Ham certainly have a lot of hope for regarding the
future. The talented 22-year-old arrived in January from Cypriot side
Apollon Limassol as something of a gamble from Sam Allardyce. The Canadian
international is however, nine months on, still waiting for his West Ham
Premier League debut. In fact, to date, his only game for West Ham was in a
disappointing 2-1 loss to Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League. So he was
recently loaned out to Championship side Blackburn Rovers. Last term he
impressed during a similar spell at Ewood Park, after a recommendation from
Ryan Nelsen saw Gary Bowyer snap him up. Unfortunately he suffered an injury
and the deal was cut short, with Henry not playing again after March last
season. Now his new loan boss has described how he will be managing the
player's fitness in the weeks to come.
New Rovers boss Paul Lambert told the Lancashire Telegraph this week: "We
just had to watch that he never broke down again. That's important because,
if he did break down, we'd have to send him back to West Ham. "We have to
manage him a little bit. I think he was feeling the effects of the training
last week, so that was why we decided to leave him out. "It's been a long
time, not playing and training, and he's come into this where it's high
intensity. "We've just got to man-manage him to make sure he's okay."
West Ham fans will certainly be pleased to hear that Henry is seemingly in
safe hands at Ewood Park. His spell ended too soon last time he was with the
club and that did his future chances at West Ham no favours. His current
deal expires at the start of January but there is an option to extend it. If
he can continue to thrive at the Championship club, who seem to be turning
things around under the management of Lambert, then in time he might just
become the West Ham regular it is hoped he will be.
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West Ham star provides injury update after Slaven Bilic predicts return date
Londn 24
09:40 11 December 2015 Pete Evans
Manuel Lanzini says his recovery is going well and his manager predicts the
West Ham playmaker could be back by December 20. The Argentine has enjoyed
an eye-catching start to life at Upton Park only to suffer a thigh injury in
training last week which ruled him out of the 0-0 draw with Manchester
United and this weekend's clash with Stoke. Initially the Hammers said he
was expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks but speaking at his weekly
press conference on Thursday Bilic explained that he 'hopes' Lanzini could
be back for the Swansea trip in just nine days. And the 22-year-old was
feeling equally positive about his chances of a speedy return. "Trust me
when I say I am as desperate to return to action as you are," he told the
club's official website in a message to fans. "Thankfully my recovery is
going well and I may be able to return in a few weeks. "I'm feeling a lot
better now, I'm hoping to get back as soon as possible, there's nothing like
the feeling of running out on the pitch every weekend so I'm hoping for a
quick recovery and hopefully I get back to the level I was playing at before
the injury." If Lanzini does not make the trip to Swansea then he could
return for either of their festive fixtures against Aston Villa away and
Southampton at home.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic rules out warm weather winter trip and reveals chairmen talks
over injuries London 24
07:00 11 December 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic admits dealing with the Hammers' training
ground has been tough in recent weeks. The Chadwell Heath pitches are not in
a fit state, according to Bilic, as the rock hard ground is covered by a
slippery surface, causing injuries. Four key Hammers are out with muscle
injuries which can all be brought back to the training ground pitches and so
change has been made with the Hammers moving two miles down the road to Rush
Green from next week onwards. Bilic reveals he spoke to David Gold and
Sullivan in midweek about the move and that Upton Park is also a venue that
can be used for training. "It was an easy conversation. I spoke yesterday to
the chairman and he agreed totally with me. "Ok Rush Green is not ready, we
weren't planning on moving until next season, but the pitch is my concern,
not the kitchen or play room. "The plan was to move at the start of next
pre-season but it could be October or any time. "Another solution was to
change here and go over there on a mini bus. There are a lot of things
missing there off the pitch. "We will also monitor these pitches, maybe in
one month they are ok or maybe we can mix. "Maybe Upton Park too, in
previous years when West Ham play away on the Saturday they would train at
Upton Park." Sam Allardyce notoriously took his team to Dubai or Malaga for
some warm weather training, which was reported to have been more a 'team
bonding' event. Bilic admits he won't be doing that but is pleased he has
made a change. "I heard that in recent years the managers were taking the
players to Malaga to train," Bilic said. "I would like to avoid that, to fly
to Spain for training, you don't need that." I wanted to do something and I
am sure I had to do something. The groundsman has told me the pitches at
Rush Green are better so we will go there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How Hammers could line up v Stoke as summer signing grabs first start London
24
07:20 11 December 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham are struggling with injuries and Slaven Bilic will make changes
against Stoke on Saturday. With a number of key men out such as Dimitri
Payet, Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho, Bilic's team have struggled lately.
With added new injuries to Winston Reid, Manuel Lanzini and Victor Moses,
Bilic has decisions to make. Michail Antonio should in for his first start
for the club and Carl Jenkinson could also be recalled to replace Reid.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Neville decision could scupper West Ham plot to sign The Beast Alvaro
Negredo HITC Dan Coombs
One of Gary Neville's first moves as Valencia boss could prevent West Ham
from signing Alvaro Negredo. West Ham are in need of reinforcements over the
coming transfer window to solve their injury problems, and one of the best
players linked is striker Alvaro Negredo. An editorial in The Metro this
week suggested the Hammers go back in for Negredo, having failed to sign him
in 2013 when he moved to Manchester City instead. It would be an outstanding
deal. Negredo is a proven goalscorer who has Premier League experience, and
is physically suited to playing in the league. After struggling this season
at Valencia, he would also have a point to prove to them, as well as
Manchester City. Gary Neville's early actions as boss of Los Che would
indicate though that a move is off the table. Negredo, nicknamed The Beast,
had been selected for only five matches in La Liga, scoring once, but
Neville has brought him back into the fold.
Spanish newspaper Marca reported how Neville decided to recall the striker
for their Champions League match with Lyon, while the move was hailed by
club captain Dani Parejo, reported Football Espana, who said: "He's an
important player for us and we are very happy because he can provide a lot
to the group."
Negredo made his comeback against Lyon, his first match since October 3, and
it was a bittersweet affair as the French side won to condemn Valencia to
the Europa League, but he himself praised Neville's approach and 'clear
instructions', reported Football Espana. The signs are that any club
attempting to sign him have been dealt a blow by Neville's decision to
involve him, and essentially take him off the transfer market, and unless
things change over the next month, West Ham will have to look elsewhere.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United will look to end their five-game wait for a victory when
they play host to Stoke City at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. After
claiming the scalp of Chelsea in October, three draws and two defeats have
followed, although the Hammers were unfortunate not to beat Manchester
United last time out. Only the post stood in their way of a famous Old
Trafford victory, and Slaven Bilic's men will have taken great confidence
from their trip to the north west. Stoke City, meanwhile, have been in fine
from recently, having won three of their last four fixtures. Last weekend
they defeated Manchester City 2-0, while Southampton and Chelsea have also
come up short against the Potters in the last month. Mark Hughes' side are
currently eleventh in the table, a point behind the Hammers in a congested
top half.
The history
The Hammers have met Stoke on 92 occasions previously, winning 35 and losing
33 of those matches. However, the Londoners have not defeated the Potters in
either of the last two seasons, drawing both meetings last term and losing
both the year before. Last season West Ham were 2-0 down against Stoke at
the Britannia Stadium, but goals from Enner Valencia and Stewart Downing
drew them level. The boot was on the other foot at the Boleyn Ground, when
Aaron Cresswell's free kick was cancelled out by an injury time goal from
Marko Arnautovic.
The match
Team news
West Ham United
The Hammers will be without at least five players on Saturday, with Victor
Moses, Winston Reid (both hamstring), Diafra Sakho, Manuel Lanzini (both
thigh) and Dimitri Payet (ankle) all injured. Enner Valencia has also been
out for the last month, but has returned to training this week.
Stoke City
For Stoke, defender Marc Muniesa is expected to return after missing the
last six games with a hamstring injury. However, strikers Peter Crouch and
Peter Odemwingie are out, as is goalkeeper Shay Given.
Match info
Saturday's referee is Andre Marriner, and he will be assisted by Scott
Ledger and Eddie Smart. Keith Hill is the fourth official.
West Ham have gone five league matches without a win (D3, L2).
Stoke have lost just two of their last 10 league matches (W6, D2).
They have kept six clean sheets in their eight most recent league games.
However, they have only scored six goals in their last 10 matches away from
home in the Premier League.
The Potters are the joint-lowest scorers in the top flight, along with Aston
Villa, having managed just 13 goals in 15 games.
Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info
Tickets for this match have SOLD OUT.
A showery day is expected on Saturday, with temperatures reaching a high of
12C (54F).
There are no closures planned on the District and Hammersmith & City lines
serving Upton Park station. Click here for full information on TfL services
and here for National Rail.
If you're not heading to the match, make sure you follow all the action on
our digital channels. Our live Match Centre has audio commentary, in-running
stats, text updates the best pictures and more, while you can get involved
in the conversation on social using the hashtag #WHUSTK
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Tony Carr MBE celebrates with international group!
WHUFC.com
Club Ambassador Tony Carr MBE was on hand to celebrate with a visiting
Malaysian group who were in London as part of the Foundation's international
work. The 1MCC group from Kuala Lumpur has a long standing relationship with
the Foundation and visit annually to receive a full West Ham United
experience. After a wonderful two weeks with the Foundation, the group were
joined by Club legend Tony Carr MBE to hand out awards and celebrate the
achievements of the young group during their time in the capital. He offered
words of encouragement to the participants and explained how they need to
stay dedicated to the sport if they are to be successful and play
professional football one day. "I'm glad to hear you've enjoyed a fantastic
two weeks with the West Ham United Foundation! I've been told that there are
some really talented players among you and I think it's crucial to take the
lessons you have learnt here, back to Malaysia and really work hard at them.
"It's a very demanding task becoming a Premier League footballer and I know
many of you have a dream of becoming one in years to come. Hopefully during
your time here at the Foundation you've developed your ability as
footballers, as well as improving your English language skills and can take
great confidence from this experience."
Foundation staff was on hand to treat the visitors to an array of fun
activities during their two weeks, including a Stadium tour, a matchday
experience, excursions to London and competitive matches against the West
Ham Academy and Kicks teams to name but a few. The group were lucky enough
to see behind the scenes at the First Team training ground at Chadwell Heath
where they caught a glimpse of what the everyday life of a Premier League
footballer looks like. During their time at Chadwell, the young Malaysian
group had the opportunity to meet some of the West Ham United Ladies players
who put their English language skills to the test by requesting a rendition
of I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles. After an impeccable vocal performance, it
was time for the group to take to the field against a young Academy side,
where their progress over the two weeks saw them edge their way to victory
in a close encounter. Foundation Football Development Manager, Bryan Glover
was delighted at the developing partnership and stressed the importance of
the Foundation's international work. "This is another great example of our
fantastic international programme which invites people from across the world
to come and receive a full West Ham United experience. We have a great
relationship with 1MCC and it's been brilliant to have them over once again.
"The young participants have applied themselves fantastically well during
the time they have been here and it's great to have Tony Carr come down and
offer them an idea of what it takes to become a professional footballer.
"Some of them are taking part in things that they'd never get the
opportunity to experience and our partnership with 1MCC has enabled us to
really make some dreams come true these last few weeks!"
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Prices slashed for Wolves tie
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that ticket prices have been
reduced for the Emirates FA Cup third round visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers
to the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers will host the Championship side at 3pm on
Saturday 9 January 2016, embarking on what the Club hopes will be a fourth
successful challenge for the world's most-famous knockout competition. Adult
ticket prices for this mouth-watering FA Cup tie have been reduced to £20
for Season Ticket Holders and £25 for non-Season Ticket Holders in all
Bands. Over-65s and Under-21s ticket prices have been set at £10 for Season
Ticket Holders and £15 for non-Season Ticket Holders in all Bands. Under-16
Season Ticket Holders can secure a seat for just £5, while Under-16
non-Season Ticket Holder seats are priced at £10 each. Tickets are on sale
to Season Ticket Holders now, with a priority window being open until 9am on
Tuesday 15 December. Buy now here! Tickets will be on sale to Academy
Members from 9am on Tuesday 15 December, with a General Sale starting from
9am on Thursday 17 December. West Ham have met Wolves twice previously in
the FA Cup, both times at Molineux - a 5-1 second round win in February
1910, in which George Webb scored a hat-trick, and a 3-1 fourth round
victory in January 2004. The Hammers are three-time FA Cup winners, having
lifted the trophy in 1964, 1975 and 1980, while Wolves have won it four
times, doing so in 1893, 1908, 1949 and 1960.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham V Stoke
KO 15:00
11 December 2015
Last updated at 11:58
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 12 December
TEAM NEWS
Winston Reid and Victor Moses have joined West Ham's lengthy injury list
after being ruled out until the new year with hamstring problems. The
Hammers are already without Dimitri Payet, Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini,
although Enner Valencia could return.
Stoke defender Marc Muniesa is expected to be involved after missing the
last six games with a hamstring injury. The Potters remain without strikers
Peter Crouch and Peter Odemwingie and goalkeeper Shay Given.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Alistair Bruce-Ball: "Stoke produced one of the most thrilling performances
of the season last Saturday in beating Manchester City, and it will be
interesting to see if Mark Hughes is bold enough to unleash his front three
of Bojan, Xherdan Shaqiri and Marko Arnautovic again. The Potters are just
one point behind West Ham, having taken 10 points from their last five
games, while the Hammers have managed just three points in that time as
injuries have taken their toll. "If Mauro Zarate had kept his cool they
could have snatched a win at Old Trafford last weekend, but will they be
able to trouble Stoke's stonewall defence without the likes of Payet, Sakho
and Lanzini?"
Twitter: @alibruceball
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "It's going to be hard without players like
Lanzini, Payet, Moses and Sakho, but we played without almost all of them
against Manchester United and still we created enough chances to score
goals. "As I said, when all the players were available it was also about the
squad. Now, we have a tinier squad but it's time for those those players to
step up."
Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "After a performance and result like that
[against Manchester City], there's been a real crackle about the group and
some banter. You sense a lot of confidence. "But the challenge is being able
to do it week in, week out, not just in one-off games. "You've got to be
able to go up against teams at the bottom, as we saw against Sunderland,
where we didn't really start the game as well as we should have done."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
I was at Old Trafford last week for West Ham's 0-0 draw with Manchester
United and was very impressed with Slaven Bilic's side. Stoke were also very
impressive as they beat Manchester City last week, and it will be
interesting to see if they go for it on Saturday as much as they did in that
win. Stoke have not conceded a league goal while Ryan Shawcross has been on
the pitch this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Stoke are unbeaten in four league meetings with West Ham (W2, D2).
The Hammers have won just once at home in their last five league meetings
(D2, L2).
West Ham
West Ham have gone five league matches without a win (D3, L2).
However, they are unbeaten in their last five league games at home, winning
two and drawing three.
Their clean sheet against Manchester United last weekend was their first in
10 league matches.
After scoring an average of 2.2 goals per game in their first 10 league
matches, they have averaged just 0.6 in their last five.
The injured Dimitri Payet created 47 goalscoring chances in the Premier
League this season - no other West Ham player has created more than 19.
Stoke
Stoke have lost just two of their last 10 league matches (W6, D2).
They have kept six clean sheets in their eight most recent league games.
However, they have only scored six goals in their last 10 matches away from
home in the Premier League.
The Potters are the joint-lowest scorers in the top flight, along with Aston
Villa, having managed just 13 goals in 15 games.
Marko Arnautovic has scored in both of his Premier League appearances
against West Ham.
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Moncur's backing Bilic
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 11th December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Hammers cult hero John Moncur has admitted he's not been surprised with the
impact his former teammate Slaven Bilic has had at West Ham since his
arrival. In a wide-ranging interview in Blowing Bubbles Monthly, Moncur, who
joined West Ham from Swindon in June 1994 for £1m, believes Bilic is the
right man to take West Ham forward to an exciting future in the Olympic
Stadium.
"He certainly was the one [candidate] that stood out for me because I know
him, I played with him. He's a great lad," the 49-year-old explained. "He
had all the experience to come in and do the job that he is doing. He was a
good international manager, and he likes to play the West Ham way. "I think
he has proven that he has got good recruitment skills, that he has the right
people round him and that he knows the European market as well as English
players. I think he has done a great job and it doesn't surprise me that he
has done so well up to now.
"I think he is going to be the one to take us onto the new chapter when we
move into the new stadium. I think the project over five years if we stick
with him, the club will be in healthy hands."
Elsewhere in this month's issue, George Parris writes in his exclusive
column that Manuel Lanzini's injury is as big a blow as losing Dimitri
Payet. "He's scored some crucial goals already, and took his goal against
Spurs very well, and you just thought he was starting to step out of Payet's
shadow," he wrote. "With no Payet until 2016, we needed him to keep scoring,
creating chances, and playing well but his injury is very cruel on Slaven
Bilic."
Meanwhile, Sky Sports' Bianca Westwood believes now is a brilliant time to
be born into West Ham's brave new world following the arrival of her nephew,
but admitted there was a time she didn't want any child of hers, niece or
nephew to support West Ham. Blowing Bubbles' writers also give their views
on whether or not it's time for the Premier League to consider a winter
break, and if it's time we stopped taking Karren Brady for granted. The
latest issue of Blowing Bubbles Monthly is now available to read for FREE on
your computer, tablet or mobile phone.
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West Ham v Stoke preview: Slaven Bilic faces growing injury problems
By James Walker-Roberts
Last Updated: 11/12/15 1:48pm
Ssn
Injury-hit West Ham will be looking to end a five-match winless run when
they host Stoke on Saturday. The Hammers have lost a number of first-team
players to injuries in recent weeks, with defender Winston Reid and winger
Victor Moses the latest to be sidelined. They have not won a match since
Dimitri Payet suffered an ankle problem against Everton and they are in
danger of falling away from the top six. While the Hammers have not won in
the last five, Stoke have won four of their last five in all competitions.
After their impressive victory over Manchester City last weekend they were
dubbed 'Stokealona' by Barcelona-based newspaper La Vanguardia in
recognition of the entertaining football they produced.
We look at 10 questions that could be answered by the end of the weekend.
They would move above the Hammers in the table if they win at Upton Park.
Team news
Reid and Moses are out until the new year with hamstring injuries and join
Payet (ankle), Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini (both thigh) on the
sidelines. But forward Enner Valencia could return to the squad if he passes
a late fitness test on the ankle injury which has kept him out for five
weeks.
Stoke could have fit-again defender Marc Muniesa back in the squad after the
Spaniard missed the last six first-team games in all competitions while
recovering from a hamstring injury. He has returned to full training and
played for the Under-21s but forwards Peter Crouch and Peter Odemwingie
(both hamstring) and goalkeeper Shay Given (knee) remain sidelined.
Opta stats
Marko Arnautovic has scored in both of his Premier League appearances
against West Ham.
Stoke have not conceded a Premier League goal while Ryan Shawcross has been
on the pitch this season (407 minutes).
Stoke have the lowest chance conversion in the top flight this season,
scoring with just 10.6% of their attempts.
Stoke's Premier League games have seen just 27 goals scored this season -
fewer than any other club.
The injured Payet has created 47 goalscoring chances for West Ham in the
Premier League this season - no other Hammers player has created more than
19
Paul Merson's prediction
It was a fantastic result for Stoke the other day [against Manchester City],
and with West Ham getting all these injuries and stumbling slightly, I can
see Stoke compounding the misery. They're starting to click; Arnautovic,
Shaqiri, Afellay and Bojan clicked against Man City and looked like the
Harlem Globetrotters. When they all connect they're so good, but they can
also be the other way, a bit soft. But I don't like going against them,
they're a good team, and this would be a big win for them if they want to
look towards the top six or seven.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2
Betting
West Ham are the 6/4 favourites with Sky Bet for victory at home while Stoke
are outsiders for the win at 19/10 and the draw can be backed at 11/5. Marko
Arnautovic has scored in both of his Premier League appearances against the
Hammers and the Stoke forward is available at 11/4 to net this weekend. West
Ham striker Andy Carroll heads the first goalscorer odds at 5/1 and the top
prospect from the Potters is Bojan at 13/2.
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham need to show they can overcome obstacles
Last Updated: 11/12/15 2:27pm
Ssn
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says he will not allow his players to use the
club's current injury crisis as an excuse for below-par performances. The
Hammers play host to Stoke on Saturday and are looking to continue their
solid start to the season, which has them sitting seventh in the table.
However, key players Dimitri Payet, Enner Valencia, Diafra Sakho, Manuel
Lanzini, Victor Moses and Winston Reid have all picked up injuries in the
last month, meaning Bilic will have to utilise his squad players in the
coming weeks. But the Hammers boss is confident he has the resources to
cope, and pointed out that a supposedly below-strength side drew 0-0 at
Manchester United last week and could have won. "I'm not trying to find
excuses," said Bilic. "I'm not happy, of course, but I am not trying to be
positive - I am positive. "It's time to show we can overcome these
obstacles. I'm sure we will show we can play without these players. "They
are great players, that's why we got them, and that's why they were playing
regularly, but we have to get through this period without them. "It's going
to be hard without them, but we played without almost all of them against
Manchester United last week and still created enough chances to score goals.
"When they were available, it was all about the squad. Now we have a tinier
squad but it's time for those players who didn't play, with team work and
team spirit, to step up."
The Hammers are now without a win in five and this weekend they play host to
an in-form Stoke side, who beat Manchester City 2-0 last Saturday. "Stoke
played really well against Man City, and not only then, but also Southampton
was a really good away win," said Bilic. "Against Chelsea, and last week
against City, a few of their moves were top-class football, which doesn't
surprise me because up front they have top-quality internationals. "Xherdan
Shaqiri was at Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, big clubs were fighting for
him, so it's credit to (Stoke boss) Mark Hughes for getting him. "The same
happened with Bojan Krkic the year before. "Then they have Marko Arnautovic,
a top-class player, Jonathan Walters, and Mame Biram Diouf on the bench.
They are a good, solid team and much better when t hey attack the space or
counter attack. "I am impressed and it's going to be a very difficult game
for us - but we are also good, of course."
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West Ham fan admits he left his own wedding early to watch match, got a
divorce 18 months later
10:10, 11 DEC 2015 UPDATED 10:12, 11 DEC 2015
BY WILL MAGEE
This guy is a zero on the romance scale but gets a ten for commitment, so it
all balances out really...
The Mirror
Bill Shankly famously said that football isn't a matter of life and death -
it's more important than that. The Liverpool icon was meant to have had his
tongue firmly in his cheek when he uttered those immortal words, but for
some fans that's just about the measure of it. There are some supporters so
fanatical, so ardent, that they'll do almost anything for their club.
They'll make any sacrifice for the sake of the team on matchday. Even if
that sacrifice is their wedding day - and perhaps their marriage, to boot.
We're all for supporter commitment, but this West Ham fan may have gone a
bit far. The gentleman in question called up TalkSport recently to discuss
his love of the Happy Hammers, but then regaled them with this unbelievable
anecdote about how his support for the club basically doomed his nuptials -
mainly because he left his newlywed bride in a registry office so he could
rush off to see the Irons lose 3-1. This is probably the most ridiculous
tale of anti-romance we've ever heard, in all honesty. Though the fan
doesn't explicitly blame the speedy break up of his marriage after only 18
months on his wedding-day indiscretion, the implication is pretty clear.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moncur: No problems at Chadwell Heath
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 11, 2015 in News, Whispers C and H
I'm not at all sure that Chadwell Heath is at the bottom of the club's
injury problems. But Slav's decision to move to Rush Green is clever- it's
all about trying to put a couple of per cent on performances and protecting
team spirit. I never suffered a single issue at the training ground in my
time at the club but I remember players who did blame the place. On one
occasion we used the synthetic pitch and you should have heard the moans
about bad backs afterwards. Blimey, I was 35 and had no problem whatsoever,
it's psychological and because we have a clutch of injures people are
looking for a reason. I was brought up playing my football on Hackney
Marshes so Chadwell Heath was brilliant by comparison! Had any of us gone in
moaning to Billy Bonds or Harry Redknapp, they'd have laughed us out the
place. I can imagine that a few of the foreign players have been in to see
Slav and had a little moan-up about things so to protect the squad as best
he can - and also team spirit - the manager has acted. Things may be a bit
more advanced abroad and Slav did mention that one or two players had been
moaning so he's done the clever thing - move on to a place where the pitches
and training facilities are that much better and exclude any reason for back
biting. In these days of sports and science it's all about putting an extra
two or three per cent on performances and if the move down the road does
that then great! I imagine Winston Reid's injury put the tin hat on things
but I remain unconvinced about the taining ground argument. We've had a lot
of rain and guess what, grass gets wet and people slip but Chadwell Heath?
Nah I don't think the grass there is any different to anywhere else.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Matthew Etherington claims Victor Moses hasn't done himself justice at West
Ham United HITC John Verrall
Victor Moses has scored once in 11 appearances for West Ham United. Matthew
Etherington has told the Sentinel that Victor Moses has failed to do himself
justice with his performances at West Ham United so far. Moses made a bright
start to his Hammers career, but he has struggled to make an impact more
recently. And Etherington says that the winger's lack of consistency is now
becoming a worry. "I think he started well at West Ham, but he's gone a bit
quiet to be honest," Etherington, who used to play for West Ham, said. "I
was really excited by his signing personally, but he hasn't really done
himself justice yet. "Like he was at Stoke, I think he's one of those
players with loads of natural talent and it's just a case of doing it
consistently."
Moses' failure to perform to a consistent standard has been one of the major
issues in his career. The Nigerian is one of the most threatening wide-men
in the Premier League on his day, with his pace and power making him a
nightmare to mark. However, he has a tendency to allow his levels to drop,
and that has been one of the reasons why he has struggled to find a
permanent home. Moses has been loaned out by Chelsea for the past three
seasons, and he has spent time at Liverpool and Stoke City prior to his move
to West Ham. Moses has made 11 appearances for Slaven Bilic's, and he has
scored once. He is currently out injured, meaning he will miss the Hammers'
match against Stoke at the weekend.
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Blackburn Rovers boss Paul Lambert gives fitness update on West Ham loanee
Doneil Henry, does not want repeat of season-ending injury HITC Mathew Nash
The Canadian has featured once in the Championship for Rovers. Doneil Henry
is a player who West Ham certainly have a lot of hope for regarding the
future. The talented 22-year-old arrived in January from Cypriot side
Apollon Limassol as something of a gamble from Sam Allardyce. The Canadian
international is however, nine months on, still waiting for his West Ham
Premier League debut. In fact, to date, his only game for West Ham was in a
disappointing 2-1 loss to Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League. So he was
recently loaned out to Championship side Blackburn Rovers. Last term he
impressed during a similar spell at Ewood Park, after a recommendation from
Ryan Nelsen saw Gary Bowyer snap him up. Unfortunately he suffered an injury
and the deal was cut short, with Henry not playing again after March last
season. Now his new loan boss has described how he will be managing the
player's fitness in the weeks to come.
New Rovers boss Paul Lambert told the Lancashire Telegraph this week: "We
just had to watch that he never broke down again. That's important because,
if he did break down, we'd have to send him back to West Ham. "We have to
manage him a little bit. I think he was feeling the effects of the training
last week, so that was why we decided to leave him out. "It's been a long
time, not playing and training, and he's come into this where it's high
intensity. "We've just got to man-manage him to make sure he's okay."
West Ham fans will certainly be pleased to hear that Henry is seemingly in
safe hands at Ewood Park. His spell ended too soon last time he was with the
club and that did his future chances at West Ham no favours. His current
deal expires at the start of January but there is an option to extend it. If
he can continue to thrive at the Championship club, who seem to be turning
things around under the management of Lambert, then in time he might just
become the West Ham regular it is hoped he will be.
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West Ham star provides injury update after Slaven Bilic predicts return date
Londn 24
09:40 11 December 2015 Pete Evans
Manuel Lanzini says his recovery is going well and his manager predicts the
West Ham playmaker could be back by December 20. The Argentine has enjoyed
an eye-catching start to life at Upton Park only to suffer a thigh injury in
training last week which ruled him out of the 0-0 draw with Manchester
United and this weekend's clash with Stoke. Initially the Hammers said he
was expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks but speaking at his weekly
press conference on Thursday Bilic explained that he 'hopes' Lanzini could
be back for the Swansea trip in just nine days. And the 22-year-old was
feeling equally positive about his chances of a speedy return. "Trust me
when I say I am as desperate to return to action as you are," he told the
club's official website in a message to fans. "Thankfully my recovery is
going well and I may be able to return in a few weeks. "I'm feeling a lot
better now, I'm hoping to get back as soon as possible, there's nothing like
the feeling of running out on the pitch every weekend so I'm hoping for a
quick recovery and hopefully I get back to the level I was playing at before
the injury." If Lanzini does not make the trip to Swansea then he could
return for either of their festive fixtures against Aston Villa away and
Southampton at home.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic rules out warm weather winter trip and reveals chairmen talks
over injuries London 24
07:00 11 December 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic admits dealing with the Hammers' training
ground has been tough in recent weeks. The Chadwell Heath pitches are not in
a fit state, according to Bilic, as the rock hard ground is covered by a
slippery surface, causing injuries. Four key Hammers are out with muscle
injuries which can all be brought back to the training ground pitches and so
change has been made with the Hammers moving two miles down the road to Rush
Green from next week onwards. Bilic reveals he spoke to David Gold and
Sullivan in midweek about the move and that Upton Park is also a venue that
can be used for training. "It was an easy conversation. I spoke yesterday to
the chairman and he agreed totally with me. "Ok Rush Green is not ready, we
weren't planning on moving until next season, but the pitch is my concern,
not the kitchen or play room. "The plan was to move at the start of next
pre-season but it could be October or any time. "Another solution was to
change here and go over there on a mini bus. There are a lot of things
missing there off the pitch. "We will also monitor these pitches, maybe in
one month they are ok or maybe we can mix. "Maybe Upton Park too, in
previous years when West Ham play away on the Saturday they would train at
Upton Park." Sam Allardyce notoriously took his team to Dubai or Malaga for
some warm weather training, which was reported to have been more a 'team
bonding' event. Bilic admits he won't be doing that but is pleased he has
made a change. "I heard that in recent years the managers were taking the
players to Malaga to train," Bilic said. "I would like to avoid that, to fly
to Spain for training, you don't need that." I wanted to do something and I
am sure I had to do something. The groundsman has told me the pitches at
Rush Green are better so we will go there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How Hammers could line up v Stoke as summer signing grabs first start London
24
07:20 11 December 2015 Brad Pinard
West Ham are struggling with injuries and Slaven Bilic will make changes
against Stoke on Saturday. With a number of key men out such as Dimitri
Payet, Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho, Bilic's team have struggled lately.
With added new injuries to Winston Reid, Manuel Lanzini and Victor Moses,
Bilic has decisions to make. Michail Antonio should in for his first start
for the club and Carl Jenkinson could also be recalled to replace Reid.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Neville decision could scupper West Ham plot to sign The Beast Alvaro
Negredo HITC Dan Coombs
One of Gary Neville's first moves as Valencia boss could prevent West Ham
from signing Alvaro Negredo. West Ham are in need of reinforcements over the
coming transfer window to solve their injury problems, and one of the best
players linked is striker Alvaro Negredo. An editorial in The Metro this
week suggested the Hammers go back in for Negredo, having failed to sign him
in 2013 when he moved to Manchester City instead. It would be an outstanding
deal. Negredo is a proven goalscorer who has Premier League experience, and
is physically suited to playing in the league. After struggling this season
at Valencia, he would also have a point to prove to them, as well as
Manchester City. Gary Neville's early actions as boss of Los Che would
indicate though that a move is off the table. Negredo, nicknamed The Beast,
had been selected for only five matches in La Liga, scoring once, but
Neville has brought him back into the fold.
Spanish newspaper Marca reported how Neville decided to recall the striker
for their Champions League match with Lyon, while the move was hailed by
club captain Dani Parejo, reported Football Espana, who said: "He's an
important player for us and we are very happy because he can provide a lot
to the group."
Negredo made his comeback against Lyon, his first match since October 3, and
it was a bittersweet affair as the French side won to condemn Valencia to
the Europa League, but he himself praised Neville's approach and 'clear
instructions', reported Football Espana. The signs are that any club
attempting to sign him have been dealt a blow by Neville's decision to
involve him, and essentially take him off the transfer market, and unless
things change over the next month, West Ham will have to look elsewhere.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, December 11
Daily WHUFC News - 11th December 2015
Slaven speaks - Stoke City
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic held his pre-match briefing with the broadcast media ahead of Saturday's Boleyn Ground Barclays Premier League date with Stoke City. However, this weekend's match was low down the agenda when it came to questioning of the manager, who was quizzed about the injury issues which are currently affecting his Hammers squad. The manager revealed timeframes for injuries suffered by Winston Reid and Victor Moses, some more positive news regarding Manuel Lanzini, and also talked about plans to move first-team training sessions from Chadwell Heath to Rush Green.
What can you tell us about Winston Reid's injury, which was reported on Wednesday evening?
SB: "Winston has injured his hamstring in the training session on Wednesday and he will go for a scan on Friday. Then we will see how long he is out for. It doesn't look good. Has has done it before and it's one of them, when they tell you four to six weeks. It doesn't look to be a small one. "It happened in the very beginning of the training in the activation, like a long warm-up. Straight after, he slipped and he felt it rupture, so it's most definitely a rupture and we're going to see on Friday exactly how long it's going to be. It's not just going to be the Stoke game, it will be longer. We will know more after the scan."
Slaven, you also lost Victor Moses at Manchester United, so can you update us with regard to his injury situation?
SB: "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's blow. We now have six injuries. Before the Everton game we had a full squad and they were all training and all fit and everything. First, against Everton we had two injuries with Valencia and Payet, both of them from tackles. After the international break, we've had four injuries, starting with Sakho, then Lanzini, Moses and now Winston Reid. "Of course it's a big blow for us because they are six very important players, but we are going to move on and we have to get over this period without them. We have a good medical team that will usually bring the players back very soon, so we have to compensate their absence with team-work, like we did against Manchester United. That was really good, so I want us to continue the way we are playing.
What impact does losing your main goalscorers and assist-makers to injury have on the way you will approach matches?
SB: "It's logical that they created and scored most of our chances and goals, because they were the ones who played in those positions - left, right, up front or behind. They were doing their job really good and we're going to miss them of course, because they're great players. That's why we got them and they've been playing regularly. "It's a good thing Valencia is back now and he's training with us today, so we'll see if he is in good shape in terms of fitness and in terms of if he is available. He is a great player and we're delighted he is back. "It's going to be hard without players like Lanzini, Payet, Moses and Sakho, but we played without almost all of them against Manchester United and still we created enough chances to score goals.
"As I said, when all the players were available it was also about the squad. Now, we have a tinier squad but it's time for those those players to step up. "It's impossible to compensate for these players individually, but with team-work and spirit that we have already got, we know we can do it. It's time for those players who didn't play that much, but worked hard in training, to step up and for the rest of the team to help them and for us to continue."
Do you have a theory as to why you have suffered so many injuries in recent weeks?
SB: "It's the million dollar question. On the one hand you see it happening at many Premier League clubs, but to be fair I don't care about other clubs in that sense. "There have been a lot of things said since I came here about the pitches that we have here at Chadwell Heath, and they're not ideal. If you saw Reidy's injury, he slipped because our pitches are very soft on the surface, but underneath they are very, very hard, so that's the worst combination. "Not only this year, but throughout the years we have a history in that and the players are moaning as they are not happy about the quality of the pitches. "So, I've decided that we are a club in transition regarding our training facilities and we are planning to move next season to Rush Green, but because of the quality of the pitches we're going to go there earlier. "I've decided, from Monday, we are going to move to Rush Green and start to train there because we can't continue to miss this much players with these kind of pitches, which are not in good shape. "We're going to move on Monday. The plan was to go next year, but because of the situation we're going to do it now. "I don't see any other reason because we have a good medical team and good players and the sessions are good, and I told you that since I came here it was an issue - last year, two years ago or five years ago. It has nothing to do with the groundsmen or the medical staff - it's just the way the ground is here."
How do you try to be positive in this current situation?
SB: "I am not trying to be positive - I am very positive. I said to the players it is time for us to show that we can get over the injuries. "The season is very long and in every season you more or less have these situations. One day, you think 'Do we have too many players?' and 'Can you keep them all happy?' and then in basically no time you have the totally opposite situation. "No matter how hard it is, you have to stay positive and I am. We have a good team and I'm sure we're going to show that we can play without those players, who we're going to try to bring back as soon as possible."
Will you buy players in January?
SB: "I said four weeks ago that I was quite happy and we'd only sign a player if an exceptional one became available, or if someone goes, then we would have to replace them. "In every club there is always room for one player to come, but only if he is exceptional or can make the team better. Now, if we think about Stoke or Swansea, we want to have two or even three players!
"These are not long, long term injuries. valencia is back and I hope Lanzini will be back for the Swansea game. Dimitri Payet looks really good and has come back for treatment. His ankle is very, very stable and who knows what will happen in two or three weeks. "I am not hoping but expecting a few of them to come back very, very soon and when they do, there is no need for new players, except if we find one who is exceptional."
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Chadwell Chatter - Manuel Lanzini
WHUFC.com
Hola!
On Wednesday I was lucky enough to visit our fantastic new stadium in Stratford for a tour alongside Joint-Chairman David Gold, Aaron Cresswell, Reece Oxford and some lucky competition winners. It is a very impressive stadium, not only the stands and the pitch but all the other facilities; they are just excellent. I think the move is really going to give West Ham a boost and that is obviously very important. I really think the fans and the players will enjoy it and I'm sure we'll have some successful years in the near future. Throughout my career I have been lucky enough to play in some fantastic stadiums so far, I think this stadium is going to be absolutely incredible, all footballers will want to come and play here and it'll help the Club grow.
One of the most important things is that the fans, I'm sure, are going to enjoy coming here, and we're going to be relaxed about putting on a really good show.
I'd also like to thank all the West Ham fans who have wished me a speedy recovery since getting injured last week, it honestly means a lot! One of the most frustrating things about being injured is the uncertainty, the not knowing how long it'll take to recover and return to full fitness. Trust me when I say I am as desperate to return to action as you are. Thankfully my recovery is going well and I may be able to return in a few weeks. I'm feeling a lot better now, I'm hoping to get back as soon as possible, there's nothing like the feeling of running out on the pitch every weekend so I'm hoping for a quick recovery and hopefully I get back to the level I was playing at before the injury.
We're nearly half way through the season and I think overall we've had a fantastic start. Despite having a few disappointing results recently I think we can bounce back and continue on our good run. We have a few injuries now which doesn't help but we have good, strong squad and I am confident we can cope.
See you soon!
Manu
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View on the Visitors - Stoke City
WHUFC.com
Stoke Sentinel's sports reporter Pete Smith lifts the lid on Saturday's visitors. Stoke come into this game off the back of the 2-0 win over Manchester City and one defeat in six. It all seems to be going well at the moment?
"Absolutely, the team are hitting new heights. Against City, they tried a new formation and it clearly worked very, very well. They looked like a slick attacking side which hasn't always been the case. There's a real feeling that this is the best Stoke side in a generation, the likes we haven't seen for 40 odd years.
"The result last weekend was unreal, it was certainly the crowing result of the season so far and it shouldn't be overlooked how good they really were."
It's not just Stoke's league form, but a League Cup semi-final with Liverpool to look forward to?
"Yes, and it's something the fans are quite rightly really looking forward too. For Stoke, it has been all about avoiding relegation for a long time, and more recently getting into the top ten. The next stage upward is challenging for a trophy. They last won the League Cup back in 1972 so it's something the fans would dearly love to win again."
Presumably Mark Hughes is a popular figure at the Britannia?
"He can't put a foot wrong in the fans' eyes! People haven't forgotten all the good work Tony Pulis did in laying the foundations, but Mark Hughes has taken them that step further. The vast majority of transfers have worked well, tactically he's spot on and the fans are right behind him."
Jack Butland has been sensational this season
Which players have stood out for you this season so far?
"Jack Butland has been the star of the season so far, he was man of the match in almost every game right at the start. The fact we haven't missed Asmir Begovic shows how good he really is, he's still young too.
"Since Ryan Shawcross has returned from injury the defence has looked much more solid, they picked up a few more clean sheets too. His return to fitness and form is remarkable really considering he had major back surgery in the summer.
"Then obviously the forward trio of Marko Arnautovic, Xherdan Shaqiri and Bojan Krkic have stolen the headlines, and rightly so. Their quality is obvious for all to see."
Having said all that, what is Stoke's Achilles heel?
"In most departments they've been solid so far, they haven't conceded many goals, in fact they've tended to concede more goals against the smaller sides, Watford and Sunderland, then the big teams."
In all likelihood, this is the last time Stoke play at the Boleyn Ground, what memories stick out for you about this stadium?
"It has to be the 1972 League Cup semi-final which has gone down as one of the greatest League Cup games ever. West Ham won away 2-1, meaning Stoke had to come to the Boleyn Ground and get a result to progress to the final. In particular Gordan Bank's penalty save late on from Geoff Hurst is one of the defining moments in Stoke City's history."
How do you think Saturday's game will pan out?
"It'll be a tight game; neither side will give much away so I think it'll be a 1-1 draw."
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Rio - Slaven is doing a great job
WHUFc.com
Former Hammer Rio Ferdinand praised the effect current manager Slaven Bilic has had since he returned to the Club in the summer. Ferdinand, one of the greatest players to have come through the famous Academy of Football, made 158 appearances for the Claret and Blues, winning the illustrious Hammer of the Year award in 1998. The defensive duo overlapped at the Boleyn Ground for two seasons between 1995 and 1997 and when asked about his former teammate, the south Londoner had nothing but praise: "He has done really well; I was shocked that no one tried to hire him before now to be honest. He was great for Croatia; he's a real good guy.
"I always got on well with him when we played together. When he came back to West Ham, I called him, gave him a bit of advice, and obviously he's taking it all on board! But seriously, he's a top lad, a top manager and I really get on with him."
Like many fans and pundits, some of the results Bilic has orchestrated in his short tenure so far have caught the imagination and allowed the West Ham faithful to dream big once more. With wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City already secured, Ferdinand clearly believes West Ham are on the right track: "They've been a great surprise this year; they've had some fantastic results. "Dimitri Payet is a massive loss, I was surprised that he wasn't picked up before now. He's a great coup for West Ham and he's proved in the first few months how talented he is. "If they can get him back soon I'm sure they'll have a strong second half of the season. In terms of a target, I think West Ham have got to be happy with a top 10, top eight finish."
Having come through the Academy alongside the likes of Michael Carrick and Joe Cole, Ferdinand left West Ham in 2000 for Leeds United before joining Manchester United where he won a staggering six Premier League titles as well as the Champions League in 2008. On his return to Boleyn Ground, his first since retiring as a professional footballer, he reflected on where it all began: May 5 1996, a 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday. He recounted: "My debut has to be my stand out memory, I remember coming out, standing on the touchline with Harry Redknapp, it was the stuff of dreams. I envisaged it for a couple of years before it happened, but until it happens, you're never really sure if you're ever going to get there. "On the day, the fans were so loud and really supportive; they really got behind me as a home-grown, young player. It was a great feeling that day. "I remember the great atmosphere, for any young player to come through at a club; you never get that type of love or adulation anywhere else. When you come through a club's youth system, the fans definitely see a part of themselves in you; they definitely feel a part of your journey. Every fan loves to see their club producing young, exciting talent. "I've got loads of memories here; it's a beautiful place to play football. It hasn't got long left, I've always liked being able to see the flats above the stand, but yes, great memories."
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Hammers on the home straight
WHUFC.com
West Ham United report more Season Tickets already sold for 2016/17 season than in any other in their history
Number of people on the Priority List exceeds available Season Tickets several times over
New CGI shows stunning new claret and blue detail around concourse area, keeping promise to supporters
West Ham United are delighted to announce that they have already sold more Season Tickets for their first season in the former Olympic Stadium than in any other year in the Club's history, despite there still being nine months to go until their first game.
The Hammers passed the milestone last month, and, with the iconic venue winning plaudits the world over during the Rugby World Cup and Slaven Bilic bringing entertaining football back to E13, demand for tickets to see West Ham in Stratford in the 2016/17 season continues to surpass all expectations.
The Club have pledged to do all they can to help as many Hammers fans as possible get a Season Ticket, but, as there are now several times as many fans on the Priority List as Season Tickets available, it is imperative that any supporter on the Priority List attends their Reservation Centre appointment when they are offered one next year.
Furthermore, any supporter wishing to buy a Season Ticket for next season is urged to join the Priority List immediately to stand any chance of securing a seat.
Due to the unprecedented demand, the Club can confirm that in the event that any member of the Priority List does not get an appointment at the Reservation Centre for next season, they will be offered the chance to join the Priority List for Season Tickets for the 2017/18 season.
Details of the Priority List sales process can be found here.
With the sales period for existing Season Ticket Holders set to conclude in January, the Club have today announced how the process for new Season Ticket sales at the UEFA Category Four venue will work for members of the Priority List.
Work resumes
The Club have released a new CGI showing how the stunning claret and blue colouring in the concourse of the Bobby Moore Stand, which will further ensure the Stadium truly looks and feels like West Ham's new home. The image shows how Hammers legend Moore's shirt will proudly adorn the stand carrying his name, with huge crossed hammers standing guard alongside it.
Those improvements will be just one of a number of key changes made following the recommencement of work at the new Stadium as preparations for West Ham United's first game at their stunning new home in Stratford enter their final phase.
The successful run of summer and autumn events required a pause in the construction timetable, but, following the Race of Champions finale last month, the contractors have now resumed their work in earnest. A number of major changes are set to take place to ensure the world-class venue is ready for the arrival of the Claret and Blue Army in August 2016.
To celebrate the resumption of the construction period, Hammers trio Aaron Cresswell, Manuel Lanzini and Reece Oxford accompanied Joint-Chairman David Gold on a tour of the new Stadium, together with a handful of lucky competition winners made up of Founders, supporters who have already selected their seats, and members of the New Stadium Season Ticket Priority List.
Commenting on today's announcements, West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "I am both delighted and proud to be providing such positive updates today.
"Firstly, our confirmation of further extensive West Ham detail throughout the Stadium ties in perfectly with the contractors commencing the major overhaul needed to ready the Stadium for our first game there next August.
"The new designs further add to those we announced earlier this year, which will see 'West Ham' spelt in the new 'Kop' style East Stand, a claret crossed hammers design adorning three stands and claret and blue featuring inside and outside the new Stadium.
"We have always promised our supporters that this will look and feel like the home of West Ham United and today's new CGI is further evidence that we have been true to our word.
"Secondly, it is fantastic news that we have now sold more Season Tickets for next season than in any other in our history, and that is with nine months still to go before our first game. Demand for Season Tickets has surpassed all of our expectations and that is testament to the rapid progress we have seen on and off the pitch over the past few years.
"We desperately want as many Hammers fans as possible to sample what will be an unbelievable experience of watching their team in this stunning new venue, so I would urge anyone already on the Priority List to make sure they seize their opportunity when it comes around. And I would encourage anyone yet to join to do so immediately to stand any chance of getting what will be the hottest ticket in London come August 2016."
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Priority List process explained
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are pleased to announce the sales process for supporters on the New Stadium Season Ticket Priority List.
Now that the seat selection process for existing Season Ticket Holders is nearing the end, supporters on the Priority List can expect to start receiving their Reservation Centre appointments in the New Year.
From the beginning of January, the Reservation Centre will begin contacting supporters on the Priority List to schedule their seat selection appointments. Following the call, each group will need to confirm their booking with a £10 appointment confirmation fee, which will be deducted from the final cost of their Season Ticket.
Supporters will be contacted based on the order in which they joined the Priority List and, with several times as many names on the Priority List as available seats, we ask that supporters are patient during this process.
With demand so high, it is vitally important that you attend your appointment to avoid missing out. Similarly, rescheduling your appointment will impact your choice of seats.
When you confirm your Season Ticket seat for the Club's momentous first season in the new Stadium, you can join our founding fathers by being recognised as a Founder. This is a one-time opportunity for your Founding status to be proudly displayed, for all to see, acknowledging how you helped to build our exciting future.
If you buy a Season Ticket in our new home, you can also share your priority with two friends or family members who can join you at your Reservation Centre appointment so you can select your seats all together.
You can confirm your additional supporters when you receive your phone call to schedule your appointment. Supporters are therefore advised to consider who they wish to bring with them in the run-up to January, so that you have all the appropriate details to hand.
On the day of the appointment you can expect a presentation about the Stadium and you will then be invited to select your new seats using the state-of-the-art Virtual Venue. The new software allows you to virtually 'sit' in your seat at the new Stadium to check out the views.
Once you have chosen your seats, you will be required to pay 25 per cent of your Season Ticket value. The remaining balance is payable by Sunday 1 May. Please note if your appointment is on or after 1 April 2016 you will be required to pay in full.
A Monthly Payment Plan is available courtesy of V12 Season Ticket Finance, for which you can apply in person during your appointment.
Due to the unprecedented demand, the Club can confirm that in the event that any member of the Priority List does not get an appointment at the Reservation Centre for next season, they will be offered the chance to join the Priority List for Season Tickets for the 2017/18 season.
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West Ham move training grounds months ahead of schedule
BBC.co.uk
West Ham will move to their new training ground months ahead of schedule as they attempt to combat a growing injury list. Winston Reid and Victor Moses have joined Dimitri Payet, Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini on the sidelines. The Rush Green site is unfinished but the pitches are in use and they will begin training there from Monday. "The Chadwell Heath pitches are soft on top but hard underneath, which is the worst combination," said Slaven Bilic. "The pitches are better there than here. We can live without the great dressing room, the kitchens and the free area for now."
The Hammers were due to relocate to their new Rush Green HQ, where they currently play under-21 games, at the start of next season. But Bilic said they "can't continue to risk" using the pitches at their current Chadwell Heath base. 'It doesn't look good'
Reid and Moses are facing up to six weeks on the sidelines with hamstring problems. Centre-back Reid was injured during training and will get the results of a scan on Friday. "It doesn't look good," said Bilic, whose side host Stoke on Saturday. "It's one of those they tell you is four to six weeks but it doesn't look like a small one. He slipped and felt it rupture." Moses, on loan from Chelsea, suffered his injury in a goalless draw at Manchester United last weekend. Bilic added: "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's a blow, we have had six injuries since the Everton game. "Before that we had a full squad, then Payet and Valencia were injured against Everton and now we have four muscle injuries."
Attacking midfielder Payet and striker Sakho are both out until February, while Lanzini is out for six weeks with a thigh problem suffered in training. Bilic could have Enner Valencia back to face Stoke after the striker's five-week absence with an ankle injury.
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David Gold says new stadium will help West Ham reach new levels
By Amy Lewis, Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 10/12/15 3:01pm
SSN
West Ham co-chairman David Gold believes the club can claim a top-six finish - and that their new stadium will help them build on that success next season. The Hammers are due to move into the Olympic Stadium for the start of the 2016/17 season and the final phases of the construction work are already underway.
"We dream of the impossible where we pursue the impossible," said Gold. "I would still say to you that our ambition is to finish in the top half of the division. Can we finish higher, in the top six? Yes we can."
The club revealed they have sold more season tickets for their first season in the Olympic Stadium than any other previous campaign with 30,000 seats already taken up out of the 54,000 capacity. And Gold expects to have capacity crowds at nearly all of their matches at their new home. West Ham co-chairman David Gold is targeting a top six finish this season and says they want to bring European football to the Olympic Stadium. "Everyone was very dubious as to whether we could fill the stadium," he said. "We were confident with all the work we did and all the enquiries we made. The reality is that we are going to be coming very close to filling this stadium with season ticket holders. "Let alone the thousands who would want to come because they would want to see this iconic stadium."
West Ham will have to make extra payments if they finish in the top 10 of the Premier League. The contract also states they have to pay an additional fee if they win the FA Cup or qualify for the Europa League or Champions League. The club will not have to pay for turnstile operators, much of the security and steward personnel and catering staff on match days. Gold defends the importance of West Ham's contribution. "There's no doubt that a lot of people feel this has been funded by the taxpayer but without West Ham this wouldn't have happened," he said. After hosting international events such as the Rugby World Cup over the summer, the stadium's construction work is expected to be ready by late spring. Defender Aaron Cresswell visited the ground and says he looking forward to playing at the club's new home. "This is the first time I have been here at the stadium of course it is fantastic facilities," he said. "I'm not too sure the manager is going to be too happy with the pitch but it's going to be ready in time for the new season. Doing a mini tour around the inside bits and it looks fantastic."
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Bastian Schweinsteiger given three-match ban for elbowing Winston Reid.
By Paul Vinnell
Last Updated: 10/12/15 5:28pm
SSN
Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger will serve a three-match suspension for elbowing West Ham's Winston Reid. The ban begins with immediate effect after the Germany captain accepted an FA charge for violent conduct. The incident, last Saturday at Old Trafford, was not seen by the match officials but was caught on video. Schweinsteiger caught Reid in the throat as the players battled for position from a first-half free-kick during the 0-0 draw.
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Chadwell Heath pitch is too firm and causes injuries!
December 10, 2015
thewesthamway.co.uk
Matthew Etherington
Hi all, first and foremost we have a very tough game coming at the weekend, Stoke are starting to fire on all cylinders. Shaquiri, Arnoutavic, Bojan are all in form. A very decent side.
The reason for this post is the injuries we have at the club right now, it's ridiculous. I can only speak of my time at this great club and say that the training ground was always way too firm, don't get me wrong the surface was pristine but always liable for injuries. It was like literally training on a road for 2 hours every day. Eventually your muscles say enough, there come the injuries, either during training or on a match day. I was there for five seasons and every pre-season the pitches would get re-layed. Still too firm. When I went back to train last summer (2014) the training ground was still way too hard and nothing had changed. I had a muscle injury myself within a few days. At Stoke's training ground with decent pitches (plenty of rain also!) we had minimal injuries, me and my groins/muscles injuries, in the early years at Stoke, were absolutely fine.
People will say "Premier League pitches are the same now, so get on with it". They are not. Chadwell Heath is a lot firmer than any training ground/Premier League pitch I have played football on. I'm sure the Chairmen, who have done such an admirable job since taking over, know this. I think we all agree it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. Thankfully this appears to now be the case with the club moving to Rush Green on Monday as opposed to the end of the season. You do have to question why it has taken so many injuries to make this happen however. I don't believe the medical team are at fault either, personnel has changed a few times over several years and we still seem to get numerous injuries every season lets hope the move to Rush Green now solves the problems.
COYI
Matty.
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Caretaker Rants: Parker haters you should be ashamed!!
December 10, 2015
WestHamWay.co.uk
@caretaker_rants
Hard working, a grafter, 100% committed. These are just a few qualities which we love to see in a player at West Ham. Three times Hammer of the Year, almost single handily keeping the club up one year, winning the Football Writers Player of the Year award when we finished rock bottom of the league. A few milestones which you can say wouldn't be possible without having the initial qualities I mentioned. Scott Parker had, and achieved everything I have mentioned so far, yet it was almost three years ago that he was shamefully booed by a large number of our supporters on his return to Upton Park, something which I have never forgotten and ultimately will go down as one of my lowest moments at the ground.
This isn't a biography on him so I won't bore you with a factfile on Scott but I think we can all agree that his performances and level of consistency during his four years with the club (and in particular the last two) were at a level not seen by anyone for years and probably haven't been seen since. Someone who knew nothing about Scott could be mistaken for thinking he had left in the same circumstances that surrounded Paul Ince perhaps, which could explain why he was booed on his return, but this was certainly not the case.
After getting relegated in 2011 Scott was awarded the Football Writers Player of the Year which is a prestigious honour and to my knowledge has never been given to someone at a club which finished bottom of the league. Scott had started playing regularly for England, and we all knew deep down that he wasn't going to hang around in the Championship and lose the place that he had worked so hard to earn, nor could any of us deny him a move when you consider what he had done for the club.
Now comes the controversial part, Scott eventually joined Spurs very late on in the transfer window. Spurs had just finished fifth in the league and were a club progressing and whilst they are rivals of ours, and of course I would have preferred to see him in another shirt, I didn't begrudge him that move, especially since he was/is a Spurs fan. Then a lot of fans started to turn bitter and sour, all sorts of nonsense emerged from fans who had read in The Sun (of all rags) that Scott had threatened to go on strike if he didn't get his move to Spurs. Scott did place a transfer request to seal his move to Spurs, something which is a common procedure with football players, but at no point would he ever have dreamed of refusing to play if he didn't get his move.
Scott started the season with us and played four games with us, at the time nobody questioned his commitment, and why should they? This guy was one of us out there, giving everything he had for the shirt. Yet as soon as he left people were saying that 'his heart wasn't in it' and that he was 'dodging tackles' for fear of getting injured. Statements that were absolutely bull$hit and an insult to Scott. Another classic line was that he had left to earn more money as he was greedy. We were paying him such a high salary that I doubt he earnt much more money at Spurs, if at all.
So what if he went so Spurs? Are we West Ham fans or anti Spurs fans? To this day I still find it childish and pathetic that so many ignorant fans somehow forget everything he did for us and simply want to focus on the fact that he joined Spurs. As I said before, Scott is a spurs fan, so why the hell should he be denied a move to his club? If, for example Mark Noble had been a Crystal Palace player and joined us we would all laugh at Palace fans and consider them small minded in their hatred aimed towards Mark. Joe Cole refused to sign a new contract with the club when we finished 7th yet that didn't seem to bother people and he is often referred to as a West Ham legend, but he certainly didn't contribute as must to the club as Scott did on the field. Michael Carrick also went to spurs, yet he always gets a good reception on his return, and rightly so.
Scott openly said after the game that he was disappointed and upset at getting booed, so that tells you all you need to know about the guy, he didn't stick the knife in and mention the fact that Spurs had won the game late on, he simply stated what a great time he had at the club and how he was proud of his time here, and that is why I am still disgusted by what I witnessed that day.
Agree or disagree, let me know @caretaker_rants. Thanks for reading and take care people.
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Watch out…Paolo's tweeting!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
It looks like DiCanio…it feels like DiCanio and may well be DiCanio. But until the blue tick appears beside his twitter name @OfficialDiCanio there's no 100 per cent certainty. Still it looks like the legend has now emerged on the social network having announced his arrival like this:
Paolo Di Canio @OfficialDiCanio 51 mins51 minutes ago
Delighted to finally be on Twitter! Looking forward to hearing from you all #yesitreallyisme
If it really is the main man then we can stand by for some serious fun over the next few years for Paolo is certain to become a very controversial figure. So welcome to the playground Paolo – err hopefully, We look forward to hearing from you. Within just a couple of hours PDC has collected over 700 followers, seen his first tweet retweeted 50 times and liked 59.
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Olympic Stadium LED wrap approved
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
The London Legacy Development Corporation has confirmed that the proposed LED Stadium Wrap for the former Olympic Stadium has been granted planning permission on the 27th October, subject to conditions of operation and impact mitigation. The procurement process for the new wrap is ongoing and a preferred contractor should be announced before the end of the year. The news was published in LLDC's board meeting from 24th November.
The wrap will stretch around the north, east and south sides of the Stadium and would be capable of displaying moving, colour content. The LEDs will be housed in a structure attached to back of the existing Stadium bowl. Hours of usage will be limited so as to be sensitive to neighbouring uses and ecology. The west side of the Stadium, facing the Fish Island Conservation Area, will not have any LEDs.
The LLDC say the wrap is intended to fulfil the following objectives:
Enhance the Stadium aesthetics and provide a creative, feature lighting installation;
Provide flexibility to reflect the look and feel of events taking place within the multi-use Stadium;
Provide a positive community asset – promote the wider Park, whilst ensuring content is sensitive to neighbours and neighbouring uses;
Provide the opportunity for Stadium naming rights partner activation.
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Rush Green Planning Permission approved
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Planning permission to transform Rush Green into a state of the art training facility has been approved by London Borough of Havering this week with minor conditions attached.
The full planning decision published three days ago can be found HERE . The council puts certain conditions on the transformation of Rush Green and requests further information where they claim insufficient information was supplied in the original planning application on behalf of West Ham.
Earlier today Slaven Bilic announced that the first team would be moving to Rush Green on Monday but the current ground also has basic facilities and the first team will need to slum it until the transformation of Rush Green is complete.
In February 2009, West Ham entered into an option agreement to purchase the freehold interest in the 29 acre Rush Green Ford Sports Ground from the Ford Motor Company. In September the same year, they completed the acquisition of the property for a sum of £1.4 million.
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Gaffer gets right response after shock
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic's out-of-the-blue decision to move the first team squad to Rush Green from Chadwell Heath came as a surprise to everybody inside the club today.
The manager had told nobody outside of his coaching staff what he had in mind but has immediately received the full backing of the board.
Whilst he clearly doesn't KNOW that Chadwell Heath is responsible for the injury record at the club he suspects that the soft/hard ground may be responsible.
And with start of the art training pitches in place at Rush Green he is determined to eliminate any last risk.
A club source said: "Nobody knew about the decision until today. We thought the changeover would take place next season but the facilities are in place and it's the manager's decision. He will get all the support he requires.
"There are three world class pitches at Rush Green – all of which had laser beams used on them to make sure they were 100 per cent level.
"Not everybody is of the view that Chadwell Heath is the sole problem but all the facilities are in place at Rush Green and if the manager wants to use them it's entirely his decision.
It could have the effect of freshening everybody up as well."
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West Ham ranked 8th in injury table
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 9, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Despite the growing Injury list with Lanzini and Reid added in the last week, West Ham only sit in 8th place with regards to the most number of injuries in the Premier League. With Enner Valencia set to return as soon as Saturday, West Ham could drop as low as 10th in the Premier League in terms of number of injured squad players.
1st Newcastle 10 Injuries
2nd Bournemouth 9 Injuries
3rd Manchester United 9 Injuries
4th Arsenal 7 Injuries
5th Liverpool 7 Injuries
6th Manchester City 7 Injuries
7th Everton 6 Injuries
8th West Ham 6 Injuries (Payet, Valencia, Lanzini, Sakho, Reid and Moses)
9th Spurs 5 Injuries
10th Aston Villa 5 Injuries
11th Southampton 4 Injuries
12th Sunderland 4 Injuries
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Irons to move from Chadwell Heath
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic has announced the squad is on its way from its Chadwell Heath training headquarters. The news comes at more or less the same time as the crushing news that Winston Reid is set to miss the next four weeks with a new hamstring injury – his third in less than a year. Many fans have been questioning the Chadwell Heath facilities for a long time and whilst the announcement is a shock, there is absolutely no question that it will be met with widespread relief. The manager made the news public in his morning press conference ahead of the weekend match against Stoke City which sees the squad without Reid, Payet, Moses, Lanzini and Sakho. Bilic declared: "We were planning on moving the training ground to Rush Green at the end of the season, now we are moving that forward. "We will be training at Rush Green from Monday. The pitches here at Chadwell Heath are soft on top, but hard underneath which is the worse combination. So I have made the decision to go to Rush Green where the pitches are better."
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Reid's worrying injury history
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Winston Reid's injury problems – and his hamstring in particular – are becoming a regular issue in his West Ham career. The central defender – always an awesome presence when available – has now gone down with his third 'hammy' problem inside 11 months. And in football season terms that can be translated to nine games missed as a result and laid off for a total of 53 days.
Within the same 11 months the central defender has also suffered thigh muscle strains and hip problems which saw him miss 56 days and eight games. And back in the 13/14 season the Kiwi was laid off for a total of 85 days which saw him miss 16 games.
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Boots issue raised again on injuries
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
A story suggesting in part that the boots worn by players may be contributing towards the injuries suffered by Premier League players is again doing the rounds on social media following the shocking injury crisis at Upton Park. The Mail Online published a story back in October saying that six Premier League stars who suffered devastating cruciate ligament injury blows in the last six weeks were wearing Nike boots. The players were Danny Ings ( Liverpool), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Tim Krul (Newcastle), Tyrone Mings (Bournemouth), Callum Wilson (Bournemouth) and Max Gradel (Bournemouth). A quick check on Google has shown this morning that Winston Reid – who has suffered his third ligament injury in less than a year – is also using Nike boots along with Enner Valencia, Manuel Lanzini and Dimitri Payet. However, there is absolutely no evidence connecting the Irons injuries to the brand of boots the players wear and within the Mail story a footwear industry source said: "Injuries are part and parcel of the game and have always occurred. What brand is being used is a complete coincidence – this has nothing to do with boots!"
Injury data analyst Ben Dinnery is quoted as saying: "Nothing shouts out that this is a problem with football and certainly not Nike. "In almost every case there has been some form of coming together with either the turf or an opponent. I know that Eddie Howe and Sean Dyche have investigated and found that the injuries were unavoidable." And a West Ham source, when asked by ClaretandHugh whether we should be over-worried by Winston's injury record over the past 12 months said: "No, it really is down to bad luck."
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West Ham pair Winston Reid and Victor Moses out for rest of year
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 10/12/15 10:59am
SSN
West Ham duo Winston Reid and Victor Moses have been ruled out until the new year with hamstring injuries. Defender Reid was injured in training on Wednesday and could be set for a long spell out, with the results of a scan expected on Friday. Jack Sullivan, son of Hammers' joint-chairman David Sullivan, tweeted: "Very bad news. Reid injured in training 4-6 weeks with hamstring. But some players will return faster than anticipated due to hard work."
On-loan Chelsea winger Moses sustained a similar injury against Manchester United last weekend and manager Slaven Bilic fears he will not be available for up to six weeks. They are the latest additions to a growing casualty list at Upton Park which threatens to derail their fine start to the season. West Ham have already lost Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho until February while Manuel Lanzini is out for six weeks with a thigh problem. Enner Valencia has been out for five weeks with an ankle injury but he could give Bilic a boost by being added to the squad to face Stoke on Saturday. On Reid, Bilic said: "It doesn't look good. It's one of those they tell you is four to six weeks but it doesn't look like a small one. He slipped and felt it rupture. "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's a blow, we have had six injuries since the Everton game. Before that we had a full squad, then Payet and Valencia were injured against Everton and now we have four muscle injuries."
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West Ham's Olympic Stadium to include Sir Trevor Brooking Stand as club sell more season tickets than ever before
West Ham are in their final season at Upton Park ahead of the big move
Slaven Bilic's side will ply their trade at the Olympic Stadium next year
David Gold toured the new ground with three players on Wednesday
By MATT BARLOW FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:01, 10 December 2015 | UPDATED: 12:01, 10 December 2015
As West Ham prepare for their last Christmas at the Boleyn Ground they are also busy decorating the Olympic Stadium ready for the big move next year. New computer-generated images have been released as the project enters its final phase, detailing how parts of the venue will look when they move from Upton Park to their new home in Stratford in the summer. There will be claret everywhere - and some blue - with Bobby Moore's No.6 shirt above the concourse of the stand which will carry his name. A stand will also be named after Sir Trevor Brooking, as at Upton Park, and the crossed hammers design will be on display in the lower tier seats of 54,000-capacity arena. West Ham have already sold more season tickets for next season than at any other season in the club's history, thanks to a bigger capacity at the new venue and price cuts which mean adult season tickets start at £289. Numbers have not been revealed but Sportsmail understands the club is on track to have sold 35,000 season tickets for 2016/17 by the end of this year, an increase of about 10,000 on this season. Each current season ticket holder has been invited to buy an additional two before sales are opened in February to those on a waiting list of more than 20,000. Co-chairman David Gold toured the site yesterday with three players – Manuel Lanzini, Aaron Cresswell and Reece Oxford – and some competitions winners. They settled into what will be the home-team dressing room as Gold pointed out how it was big enough for 25 players, and therefore meets UEFA criteria. 'We're ready for Europe,' said Gold, as he led the entourage through the claret-and-blue tiled shower rooms, across a warm-up track for athletes, down the tunnel and out onto a horribly churned-up pitch, a result of the 'Race of Champions' motor sport bonanza last month. A brand new Desso pitch will be installed next year and overseen by head groundsman Dougie Robertson.
With the Rugby World Cup matches and other autumn events over, the construction work have restarted to make the stadium ready for its new tenants. The interior and a new on-site club store will start to take shape next month and West Ham are working to further personalise the stadium subject to planning permission. Vice-chairman Karren Brady said: 'The new designs further add to those we announced earlier this year, which will see 'West Ham' spelt in the new 'Kop' style East Stand, a claret crossed hammers design adorning three stands and claret and blue featuring inside and outside the new Stadium. 'We have always promised our supporters that this will look and feel like the home of West Ham United and today's new CGI is further evidence that we have been true to our word. 'Secondly, it is fantastic news that we have now sold more season tickets for next season than in any other in our history, and that is with nine months still to go before our first game. 'Demand has surpassed all of our expectations and that is testament to the rapid progress we have seen on and off the pitch over the past few years.
'We desperately want as many Hammers fans as possible to sample what will be an unbelievable experience of watching their team in this stunning new venue, so I would urge anyone already on the Priority List to make sure they seize their opportunity when it comes around. 'And I would encourage anyone yet to join to do so immediately to stand any chance of getting what will be the hottest ticket in London come August 2016.'
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West Ham join crowded race to sign Boca Juniors goal machine Jonathan Calleri
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham are the latest club to be linked with a move for Boca Juniors star Jonathan Calleri. According to Calcio Mercato, West Ham have made contact with the representatives of Boca Juniors striker Jonathan Calleri. The Hammers have been hit by a stunning run of injuries in the final third, with Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini, Victor Moses, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia all on the treatment table. Fans now unsurprisingly want to see West Ham bring in a new striker in January, and reports suggest that the Upton Park hierarchy are at least exploring that possibility. Calcio Mercato report that West Ham have contacted the representatives of Boca Juniors hero Jonathan Calleri, who is attracting plenty of interest from English clubs. Stoke City were suggested to be leading the race for his signature over the summer according to The Mirror, whilst Argentine newspaper Ole published a shocking report earlier this season, suggesting that Championship club Brighton were pursuing a stunning deal to bring Calleri to the South Coast. Earlier this week, Marca claimed that Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are pursuing the 22-year-old ahead of the January transfer window, with both clubs needing attacking reinforcements. Now, it appears that West Ham have entered the race for Calleri's signature, and after racking up 21 goals and 11 assists in 53 games for Boca, it's no surprise that clubs are queueing up the Argentine hitman - and the Hammers may now be hoping to pip their rivals to his signature.
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West Ham open talks with Chelsea transfer target Jonathan Calleri – report
Will Giles for Metro.co.uk
Thursday 10 Dec 2015 9:45 am
West Ham have held talks with Chelsea transfer target Jonathan Calleri, according to reports. Calleri, 22, is set to leave Boca Juniors imminently after appearing to bid farewell to the club on Twitter. Chelsea and Inter are both believed to be keen on the player, but according to Calciomercato, West Ham have entered into talks with the player's entourage. It's claimed that Inter are struggling to finance a deal for the Argentinean, and although Chelsea will likely be seen as a more favourable destination than West Ham, Slaven Bilic could go all out for the striker given the injury crisis that has engulfed his squad.
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West Ham's Winston Reid and Victor Moses out until new year with injuries
• Defender Reid hurt in training session during week
• Moses suffered problem against Manchester United
Thursday 10 December 2015 10.42 GMT Last modified on Thursday 10 December 2015 10.44 GMT
The Guardian
West Ham's Winston Reid and Victor Moses have been ruled out until the new year with hamstring injuries. The defender Reid was injured in training on Wednesday and could be set for a long spell out, with the results of a scan expected on Friday. The on-loan Chelsea winger Moses picked up his injury against Manchester United last weekend and his manager Slaven Bilic has ruled him out for four to six weeks. They are the latest additions to a growing casualty list at Upton Park which threatens to derail their fine start to the season. The Hammers have already lost Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho until February while Manuel Lanzini is out for six weeks with a thigh problem suffered in training. Enner Valencia has been out for five weeks with an ankle injury but he could give Bilic a boost by being added to the squad to face Stoke on Saturday. Bilic said: "Reid got injured in training, it doesn't look good. It's one of those they tell you is four to six weeks but it doesn't look like a small one. He slipped and felt it rupture. "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's a blow, we have had six injuries since the Everton game. Before that we had a full squad, then Payet and Valencia were injured against Everton and now we have four muscle injuries."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic held his pre-match briefing with the broadcast media ahead of Saturday's Boleyn Ground Barclays Premier League date with Stoke City. However, this weekend's match was low down the agenda when it came to questioning of the manager, who was quizzed about the injury issues which are currently affecting his Hammers squad. The manager revealed timeframes for injuries suffered by Winston Reid and Victor Moses, some more positive news regarding Manuel Lanzini, and also talked about plans to move first-team training sessions from Chadwell Heath to Rush Green.
What can you tell us about Winston Reid's injury, which was reported on Wednesday evening?
SB: "Winston has injured his hamstring in the training session on Wednesday and he will go for a scan on Friday. Then we will see how long he is out for. It doesn't look good. Has has done it before and it's one of them, when they tell you four to six weeks. It doesn't look to be a small one. "It happened in the very beginning of the training in the activation, like a long warm-up. Straight after, he slipped and he felt it rupture, so it's most definitely a rupture and we're going to see on Friday exactly how long it's going to be. It's not just going to be the Stoke game, it will be longer. We will know more after the scan."
Slaven, you also lost Victor Moses at Manchester United, so can you update us with regard to his injury situation?
SB: "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's blow. We now have six injuries. Before the Everton game we had a full squad and they were all training and all fit and everything. First, against Everton we had two injuries with Valencia and Payet, both of them from tackles. After the international break, we've had four injuries, starting with Sakho, then Lanzini, Moses and now Winston Reid. "Of course it's a big blow for us because they are six very important players, but we are going to move on and we have to get over this period without them. We have a good medical team that will usually bring the players back very soon, so we have to compensate their absence with team-work, like we did against Manchester United. That was really good, so I want us to continue the way we are playing.
What impact does losing your main goalscorers and assist-makers to injury have on the way you will approach matches?
SB: "It's logical that they created and scored most of our chances and goals, because they were the ones who played in those positions - left, right, up front or behind. They were doing their job really good and we're going to miss them of course, because they're great players. That's why we got them and they've been playing regularly. "It's a good thing Valencia is back now and he's training with us today, so we'll see if he is in good shape in terms of fitness and in terms of if he is available. He is a great player and we're delighted he is back. "It's going to be hard without players like Lanzini, Payet, Moses and Sakho, but we played without almost all of them against Manchester United and still we created enough chances to score goals.
"As I said, when all the players were available it was also about the squad. Now, we have a tinier squad but it's time for those those players to step up. "It's impossible to compensate for these players individually, but with team-work and spirit that we have already got, we know we can do it. It's time for those players who didn't play that much, but worked hard in training, to step up and for the rest of the team to help them and for us to continue."
Do you have a theory as to why you have suffered so many injuries in recent weeks?
SB: "It's the million dollar question. On the one hand you see it happening at many Premier League clubs, but to be fair I don't care about other clubs in that sense. "There have been a lot of things said since I came here about the pitches that we have here at Chadwell Heath, and they're not ideal. If you saw Reidy's injury, he slipped because our pitches are very soft on the surface, but underneath they are very, very hard, so that's the worst combination. "Not only this year, but throughout the years we have a history in that and the players are moaning as they are not happy about the quality of the pitches. "So, I've decided that we are a club in transition regarding our training facilities and we are planning to move next season to Rush Green, but because of the quality of the pitches we're going to go there earlier. "I've decided, from Monday, we are going to move to Rush Green and start to train there because we can't continue to miss this much players with these kind of pitches, which are not in good shape. "We're going to move on Monday. The plan was to go next year, but because of the situation we're going to do it now. "I don't see any other reason because we have a good medical team and good players and the sessions are good, and I told you that since I came here it was an issue - last year, two years ago or five years ago. It has nothing to do with the groundsmen or the medical staff - it's just the way the ground is here."
How do you try to be positive in this current situation?
SB: "I am not trying to be positive - I am very positive. I said to the players it is time for us to show that we can get over the injuries. "The season is very long and in every season you more or less have these situations. One day, you think 'Do we have too many players?' and 'Can you keep them all happy?' and then in basically no time you have the totally opposite situation. "No matter how hard it is, you have to stay positive and I am. We have a good team and I'm sure we're going to show that we can play without those players, who we're going to try to bring back as soon as possible."
Will you buy players in January?
SB: "I said four weeks ago that I was quite happy and we'd only sign a player if an exceptional one became available, or if someone goes, then we would have to replace them. "In every club there is always room for one player to come, but only if he is exceptional or can make the team better. Now, if we think about Stoke or Swansea, we want to have two or even three players!
"These are not long, long term injuries. valencia is back and I hope Lanzini will be back for the Swansea game. Dimitri Payet looks really good and has come back for treatment. His ankle is very, very stable and who knows what will happen in two or three weeks. "I am not hoping but expecting a few of them to come back very, very soon and when they do, there is no need for new players, except if we find one who is exceptional."
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Chadwell Chatter - Manuel Lanzini
WHUFC.com
Hola!
On Wednesday I was lucky enough to visit our fantastic new stadium in Stratford for a tour alongside Joint-Chairman David Gold, Aaron Cresswell, Reece Oxford and some lucky competition winners. It is a very impressive stadium, not only the stands and the pitch but all the other facilities; they are just excellent. I think the move is really going to give West Ham a boost and that is obviously very important. I really think the fans and the players will enjoy it and I'm sure we'll have some successful years in the near future. Throughout my career I have been lucky enough to play in some fantastic stadiums so far, I think this stadium is going to be absolutely incredible, all footballers will want to come and play here and it'll help the Club grow.
One of the most important things is that the fans, I'm sure, are going to enjoy coming here, and we're going to be relaxed about putting on a really good show.
I'd also like to thank all the West Ham fans who have wished me a speedy recovery since getting injured last week, it honestly means a lot! One of the most frustrating things about being injured is the uncertainty, the not knowing how long it'll take to recover and return to full fitness. Trust me when I say I am as desperate to return to action as you are. Thankfully my recovery is going well and I may be able to return in a few weeks. I'm feeling a lot better now, I'm hoping to get back as soon as possible, there's nothing like the feeling of running out on the pitch every weekend so I'm hoping for a quick recovery and hopefully I get back to the level I was playing at before the injury.
We're nearly half way through the season and I think overall we've had a fantastic start. Despite having a few disappointing results recently I think we can bounce back and continue on our good run. We have a few injuries now which doesn't help but we have good, strong squad and I am confident we can cope.
See you soon!
Manu
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View on the Visitors - Stoke City
WHUFC.com
Stoke Sentinel's sports reporter Pete Smith lifts the lid on Saturday's visitors. Stoke come into this game off the back of the 2-0 win over Manchester City and one defeat in six. It all seems to be going well at the moment?
"Absolutely, the team are hitting new heights. Against City, they tried a new formation and it clearly worked very, very well. They looked like a slick attacking side which hasn't always been the case. There's a real feeling that this is the best Stoke side in a generation, the likes we haven't seen for 40 odd years.
"The result last weekend was unreal, it was certainly the crowing result of the season so far and it shouldn't be overlooked how good they really were."
It's not just Stoke's league form, but a League Cup semi-final with Liverpool to look forward to?
"Yes, and it's something the fans are quite rightly really looking forward too. For Stoke, it has been all about avoiding relegation for a long time, and more recently getting into the top ten. The next stage upward is challenging for a trophy. They last won the League Cup back in 1972 so it's something the fans would dearly love to win again."
Presumably Mark Hughes is a popular figure at the Britannia?
"He can't put a foot wrong in the fans' eyes! People haven't forgotten all the good work Tony Pulis did in laying the foundations, but Mark Hughes has taken them that step further. The vast majority of transfers have worked well, tactically he's spot on and the fans are right behind him."
Jack Butland has been sensational this season
Which players have stood out for you this season so far?
"Jack Butland has been the star of the season so far, he was man of the match in almost every game right at the start. The fact we haven't missed Asmir Begovic shows how good he really is, he's still young too.
"Since Ryan Shawcross has returned from injury the defence has looked much more solid, they picked up a few more clean sheets too. His return to fitness and form is remarkable really considering he had major back surgery in the summer.
"Then obviously the forward trio of Marko Arnautovic, Xherdan Shaqiri and Bojan Krkic have stolen the headlines, and rightly so. Their quality is obvious for all to see."
Having said all that, what is Stoke's Achilles heel?
"In most departments they've been solid so far, they haven't conceded many goals, in fact they've tended to concede more goals against the smaller sides, Watford and Sunderland, then the big teams."
In all likelihood, this is the last time Stoke play at the Boleyn Ground, what memories stick out for you about this stadium?
"It has to be the 1972 League Cup semi-final which has gone down as one of the greatest League Cup games ever. West Ham won away 2-1, meaning Stoke had to come to the Boleyn Ground and get a result to progress to the final. In particular Gordan Bank's penalty save late on from Geoff Hurst is one of the defining moments in Stoke City's history."
How do you think Saturday's game will pan out?
"It'll be a tight game; neither side will give much away so I think it'll be a 1-1 draw."
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Rio - Slaven is doing a great job
WHUFc.com
Former Hammer Rio Ferdinand praised the effect current manager Slaven Bilic has had since he returned to the Club in the summer. Ferdinand, one of the greatest players to have come through the famous Academy of Football, made 158 appearances for the Claret and Blues, winning the illustrious Hammer of the Year award in 1998. The defensive duo overlapped at the Boleyn Ground for two seasons between 1995 and 1997 and when asked about his former teammate, the south Londoner had nothing but praise: "He has done really well; I was shocked that no one tried to hire him before now to be honest. He was great for Croatia; he's a real good guy.
"I always got on well with him when we played together. When he came back to West Ham, I called him, gave him a bit of advice, and obviously he's taking it all on board! But seriously, he's a top lad, a top manager and I really get on with him."
Like many fans and pundits, some of the results Bilic has orchestrated in his short tenure so far have caught the imagination and allowed the West Ham faithful to dream big once more. With wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City already secured, Ferdinand clearly believes West Ham are on the right track: "They've been a great surprise this year; they've had some fantastic results. "Dimitri Payet is a massive loss, I was surprised that he wasn't picked up before now. He's a great coup for West Ham and he's proved in the first few months how talented he is. "If they can get him back soon I'm sure they'll have a strong second half of the season. In terms of a target, I think West Ham have got to be happy with a top 10, top eight finish."
Having come through the Academy alongside the likes of Michael Carrick and Joe Cole, Ferdinand left West Ham in 2000 for Leeds United before joining Manchester United where he won a staggering six Premier League titles as well as the Champions League in 2008. On his return to Boleyn Ground, his first since retiring as a professional footballer, he reflected on where it all began: May 5 1996, a 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday. He recounted: "My debut has to be my stand out memory, I remember coming out, standing on the touchline with Harry Redknapp, it was the stuff of dreams. I envisaged it for a couple of years before it happened, but until it happens, you're never really sure if you're ever going to get there. "On the day, the fans were so loud and really supportive; they really got behind me as a home-grown, young player. It was a great feeling that day. "I remember the great atmosphere, for any young player to come through at a club; you never get that type of love or adulation anywhere else. When you come through a club's youth system, the fans definitely see a part of themselves in you; they definitely feel a part of your journey. Every fan loves to see their club producing young, exciting talent. "I've got loads of memories here; it's a beautiful place to play football. It hasn't got long left, I've always liked being able to see the flats above the stand, but yes, great memories."
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Hammers on the home straight
WHUFC.com
West Ham United report more Season Tickets already sold for 2016/17 season than in any other in their history
Number of people on the Priority List exceeds available Season Tickets several times over
New CGI shows stunning new claret and blue detail around concourse area, keeping promise to supporters
West Ham United are delighted to announce that they have already sold more Season Tickets for their first season in the former Olympic Stadium than in any other year in the Club's history, despite there still being nine months to go until their first game.
The Hammers passed the milestone last month, and, with the iconic venue winning plaudits the world over during the Rugby World Cup and Slaven Bilic bringing entertaining football back to E13, demand for tickets to see West Ham in Stratford in the 2016/17 season continues to surpass all expectations.
The Club have pledged to do all they can to help as many Hammers fans as possible get a Season Ticket, but, as there are now several times as many fans on the Priority List as Season Tickets available, it is imperative that any supporter on the Priority List attends their Reservation Centre appointment when they are offered one next year.
Furthermore, any supporter wishing to buy a Season Ticket for next season is urged to join the Priority List immediately to stand any chance of securing a seat.
Due to the unprecedented demand, the Club can confirm that in the event that any member of the Priority List does not get an appointment at the Reservation Centre for next season, they will be offered the chance to join the Priority List for Season Tickets for the 2017/18 season.
Details of the Priority List sales process can be found here.
With the sales period for existing Season Ticket Holders set to conclude in January, the Club have today announced how the process for new Season Ticket sales at the UEFA Category Four venue will work for members of the Priority List.
Work resumes
The Club have released a new CGI showing how the stunning claret and blue colouring in the concourse of the Bobby Moore Stand, which will further ensure the Stadium truly looks and feels like West Ham's new home. The image shows how Hammers legend Moore's shirt will proudly adorn the stand carrying his name, with huge crossed hammers standing guard alongside it.
Those improvements will be just one of a number of key changes made following the recommencement of work at the new Stadium as preparations for West Ham United's first game at their stunning new home in Stratford enter their final phase.
The successful run of summer and autumn events required a pause in the construction timetable, but, following the Race of Champions finale last month, the contractors have now resumed their work in earnest. A number of major changes are set to take place to ensure the world-class venue is ready for the arrival of the Claret and Blue Army in August 2016.
To celebrate the resumption of the construction period, Hammers trio Aaron Cresswell, Manuel Lanzini and Reece Oxford accompanied Joint-Chairman David Gold on a tour of the new Stadium, together with a handful of lucky competition winners made up of Founders, supporters who have already selected their seats, and members of the New Stadium Season Ticket Priority List.
Commenting on today's announcements, West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "I am both delighted and proud to be providing such positive updates today.
"Firstly, our confirmation of further extensive West Ham detail throughout the Stadium ties in perfectly with the contractors commencing the major overhaul needed to ready the Stadium for our first game there next August.
"The new designs further add to those we announced earlier this year, which will see 'West Ham' spelt in the new 'Kop' style East Stand, a claret crossed hammers design adorning three stands and claret and blue featuring inside and outside the new Stadium.
"We have always promised our supporters that this will look and feel like the home of West Ham United and today's new CGI is further evidence that we have been true to our word.
"Secondly, it is fantastic news that we have now sold more Season Tickets for next season than in any other in our history, and that is with nine months still to go before our first game. Demand for Season Tickets has surpassed all of our expectations and that is testament to the rapid progress we have seen on and off the pitch over the past few years.
"We desperately want as many Hammers fans as possible to sample what will be an unbelievable experience of watching their team in this stunning new venue, so I would urge anyone already on the Priority List to make sure they seize their opportunity when it comes around. And I would encourage anyone yet to join to do so immediately to stand any chance of getting what will be the hottest ticket in London come August 2016."
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Priority List process explained
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are pleased to announce the sales process for supporters on the New Stadium Season Ticket Priority List.
Now that the seat selection process for existing Season Ticket Holders is nearing the end, supporters on the Priority List can expect to start receiving their Reservation Centre appointments in the New Year.
From the beginning of January, the Reservation Centre will begin contacting supporters on the Priority List to schedule their seat selection appointments. Following the call, each group will need to confirm their booking with a £10 appointment confirmation fee, which will be deducted from the final cost of their Season Ticket.
Supporters will be contacted based on the order in which they joined the Priority List and, with several times as many names on the Priority List as available seats, we ask that supporters are patient during this process.
With demand so high, it is vitally important that you attend your appointment to avoid missing out. Similarly, rescheduling your appointment will impact your choice of seats.
When you confirm your Season Ticket seat for the Club's momentous first season in the new Stadium, you can join our founding fathers by being recognised as a Founder. This is a one-time opportunity for your Founding status to be proudly displayed, for all to see, acknowledging how you helped to build our exciting future.
If you buy a Season Ticket in our new home, you can also share your priority with two friends or family members who can join you at your Reservation Centre appointment so you can select your seats all together.
You can confirm your additional supporters when you receive your phone call to schedule your appointment. Supporters are therefore advised to consider who they wish to bring with them in the run-up to January, so that you have all the appropriate details to hand.
On the day of the appointment you can expect a presentation about the Stadium and you will then be invited to select your new seats using the state-of-the-art Virtual Venue. The new software allows you to virtually 'sit' in your seat at the new Stadium to check out the views.
Once you have chosen your seats, you will be required to pay 25 per cent of your Season Ticket value. The remaining balance is payable by Sunday 1 May. Please note if your appointment is on or after 1 April 2016 you will be required to pay in full.
A Monthly Payment Plan is available courtesy of V12 Season Ticket Finance, for which you can apply in person during your appointment.
Due to the unprecedented demand, the Club can confirm that in the event that any member of the Priority List does not get an appointment at the Reservation Centre for next season, they will be offered the chance to join the Priority List for Season Tickets for the 2017/18 season.
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West Ham move training grounds months ahead of schedule
BBC.co.uk
West Ham will move to their new training ground months ahead of schedule as they attempt to combat a growing injury list. Winston Reid and Victor Moses have joined Dimitri Payet, Diafra Sakho and Manuel Lanzini on the sidelines. The Rush Green site is unfinished but the pitches are in use and they will begin training there from Monday. "The Chadwell Heath pitches are soft on top but hard underneath, which is the worst combination," said Slaven Bilic. "The pitches are better there than here. We can live without the great dressing room, the kitchens and the free area for now."
The Hammers were due to relocate to their new Rush Green HQ, where they currently play under-21 games, at the start of next season. But Bilic said they "can't continue to risk" using the pitches at their current Chadwell Heath base. 'It doesn't look good'
Reid and Moses are facing up to six weeks on the sidelines with hamstring problems. Centre-back Reid was injured during training and will get the results of a scan on Friday. "It doesn't look good," said Bilic, whose side host Stoke on Saturday. "It's one of those they tell you is four to six weeks but it doesn't look like a small one. He slipped and felt it rupture." Moses, on loan from Chelsea, suffered his injury in a goalless draw at Manchester United last weekend. Bilic added: "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's a blow, we have had six injuries since the Everton game. "Before that we had a full squad, then Payet and Valencia were injured against Everton and now we have four muscle injuries."
Attacking midfielder Payet and striker Sakho are both out until February, while Lanzini is out for six weeks with a thigh problem suffered in training. Bilic could have Enner Valencia back to face Stoke after the striker's five-week absence with an ankle injury.
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David Gold says new stadium will help West Ham reach new levels
By Amy Lewis, Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 10/12/15 3:01pm
SSN
West Ham co-chairman David Gold believes the club can claim a top-six finish - and that their new stadium will help them build on that success next season. The Hammers are due to move into the Olympic Stadium for the start of the 2016/17 season and the final phases of the construction work are already underway.
"We dream of the impossible where we pursue the impossible," said Gold. "I would still say to you that our ambition is to finish in the top half of the division. Can we finish higher, in the top six? Yes we can."
The club revealed they have sold more season tickets for their first season in the Olympic Stadium than any other previous campaign with 30,000 seats already taken up out of the 54,000 capacity. And Gold expects to have capacity crowds at nearly all of their matches at their new home. West Ham co-chairman David Gold is targeting a top six finish this season and says they want to bring European football to the Olympic Stadium. "Everyone was very dubious as to whether we could fill the stadium," he said. "We were confident with all the work we did and all the enquiries we made. The reality is that we are going to be coming very close to filling this stadium with season ticket holders. "Let alone the thousands who would want to come because they would want to see this iconic stadium."
West Ham will have to make extra payments if they finish in the top 10 of the Premier League. The contract also states they have to pay an additional fee if they win the FA Cup or qualify for the Europa League or Champions League. The club will not have to pay for turnstile operators, much of the security and steward personnel and catering staff on match days. Gold defends the importance of West Ham's contribution. "There's no doubt that a lot of people feel this has been funded by the taxpayer but without West Ham this wouldn't have happened," he said. After hosting international events such as the Rugby World Cup over the summer, the stadium's construction work is expected to be ready by late spring. Defender Aaron Cresswell visited the ground and says he looking forward to playing at the club's new home. "This is the first time I have been here at the stadium of course it is fantastic facilities," he said. "I'm not too sure the manager is going to be too happy with the pitch but it's going to be ready in time for the new season. Doing a mini tour around the inside bits and it looks fantastic."
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Bastian Schweinsteiger given three-match ban for elbowing Winston Reid.
By Paul Vinnell
Last Updated: 10/12/15 5:28pm
SSN
Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger will serve a three-match suspension for elbowing West Ham's Winston Reid. The ban begins with immediate effect after the Germany captain accepted an FA charge for violent conduct. The incident, last Saturday at Old Trafford, was not seen by the match officials but was caught on video. Schweinsteiger caught Reid in the throat as the players battled for position from a first-half free-kick during the 0-0 draw.
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Chadwell Heath pitch is too firm and causes injuries!
December 10, 2015
thewesthamway.co.uk
Matthew Etherington
Hi all, first and foremost we have a very tough game coming at the weekend, Stoke are starting to fire on all cylinders. Shaquiri, Arnoutavic, Bojan are all in form. A very decent side.
The reason for this post is the injuries we have at the club right now, it's ridiculous. I can only speak of my time at this great club and say that the training ground was always way too firm, don't get me wrong the surface was pristine but always liable for injuries. It was like literally training on a road for 2 hours every day. Eventually your muscles say enough, there come the injuries, either during training or on a match day. I was there for five seasons and every pre-season the pitches would get re-layed. Still too firm. When I went back to train last summer (2014) the training ground was still way too hard and nothing had changed. I had a muscle injury myself within a few days. At Stoke's training ground with decent pitches (plenty of rain also!) we had minimal injuries, me and my groins/muscles injuries, in the early years at Stoke, were absolutely fine.
People will say "Premier League pitches are the same now, so get on with it". They are not. Chadwell Heath is a lot firmer than any training ground/Premier League pitch I have played football on. I'm sure the Chairmen, who have done such an admirable job since taking over, know this. I think we all agree it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. Thankfully this appears to now be the case with the club moving to Rush Green on Monday as opposed to the end of the season. You do have to question why it has taken so many injuries to make this happen however. I don't believe the medical team are at fault either, personnel has changed a few times over several years and we still seem to get numerous injuries every season lets hope the move to Rush Green now solves the problems.
COYI
Matty.
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Caretaker Rants: Parker haters you should be ashamed!!
December 10, 2015
WestHamWay.co.uk
@caretaker_rants
Hard working, a grafter, 100% committed. These are just a few qualities which we love to see in a player at West Ham. Three times Hammer of the Year, almost single handily keeping the club up one year, winning the Football Writers Player of the Year award when we finished rock bottom of the league. A few milestones which you can say wouldn't be possible without having the initial qualities I mentioned. Scott Parker had, and achieved everything I have mentioned so far, yet it was almost three years ago that he was shamefully booed by a large number of our supporters on his return to Upton Park, something which I have never forgotten and ultimately will go down as one of my lowest moments at the ground.
This isn't a biography on him so I won't bore you with a factfile on Scott but I think we can all agree that his performances and level of consistency during his four years with the club (and in particular the last two) were at a level not seen by anyone for years and probably haven't been seen since. Someone who knew nothing about Scott could be mistaken for thinking he had left in the same circumstances that surrounded Paul Ince perhaps, which could explain why he was booed on his return, but this was certainly not the case.
After getting relegated in 2011 Scott was awarded the Football Writers Player of the Year which is a prestigious honour and to my knowledge has never been given to someone at a club which finished bottom of the league. Scott had started playing regularly for England, and we all knew deep down that he wasn't going to hang around in the Championship and lose the place that he had worked so hard to earn, nor could any of us deny him a move when you consider what he had done for the club.
Now comes the controversial part, Scott eventually joined Spurs very late on in the transfer window. Spurs had just finished fifth in the league and were a club progressing and whilst they are rivals of ours, and of course I would have preferred to see him in another shirt, I didn't begrudge him that move, especially since he was/is a Spurs fan. Then a lot of fans started to turn bitter and sour, all sorts of nonsense emerged from fans who had read in The Sun (of all rags) that Scott had threatened to go on strike if he didn't get his move to Spurs. Scott did place a transfer request to seal his move to Spurs, something which is a common procedure with football players, but at no point would he ever have dreamed of refusing to play if he didn't get his move.
Scott started the season with us and played four games with us, at the time nobody questioned his commitment, and why should they? This guy was one of us out there, giving everything he had for the shirt. Yet as soon as he left people were saying that 'his heart wasn't in it' and that he was 'dodging tackles' for fear of getting injured. Statements that were absolutely bull$hit and an insult to Scott. Another classic line was that he had left to earn more money as he was greedy. We were paying him such a high salary that I doubt he earnt much more money at Spurs, if at all.
So what if he went so Spurs? Are we West Ham fans or anti Spurs fans? To this day I still find it childish and pathetic that so many ignorant fans somehow forget everything he did for us and simply want to focus on the fact that he joined Spurs. As I said before, Scott is a spurs fan, so why the hell should he be denied a move to his club? If, for example Mark Noble had been a Crystal Palace player and joined us we would all laugh at Palace fans and consider them small minded in their hatred aimed towards Mark. Joe Cole refused to sign a new contract with the club when we finished 7th yet that didn't seem to bother people and he is often referred to as a West Ham legend, but he certainly didn't contribute as must to the club as Scott did on the field. Michael Carrick also went to spurs, yet he always gets a good reception on his return, and rightly so.
Scott openly said after the game that he was disappointed and upset at getting booed, so that tells you all you need to know about the guy, he didn't stick the knife in and mention the fact that Spurs had won the game late on, he simply stated what a great time he had at the club and how he was proud of his time here, and that is why I am still disgusted by what I witnessed that day.
Agree or disagree, let me know @caretaker_rants. Thanks for reading and take care people.
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Watch out…Paolo's tweeting!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
It looks like DiCanio…it feels like DiCanio and may well be DiCanio. But until the blue tick appears beside his twitter name @OfficialDiCanio there's no 100 per cent certainty. Still it looks like the legend has now emerged on the social network having announced his arrival like this:
Paolo Di Canio @OfficialDiCanio 51 mins51 minutes ago
Delighted to finally be on Twitter! Looking forward to hearing from you all #yesitreallyisme
If it really is the main man then we can stand by for some serious fun over the next few years for Paolo is certain to become a very controversial figure. So welcome to the playground Paolo – err hopefully, We look forward to hearing from you. Within just a couple of hours PDC has collected over 700 followers, seen his first tweet retweeted 50 times and liked 59.
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Olympic Stadium LED wrap approved
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
The London Legacy Development Corporation has confirmed that the proposed LED Stadium Wrap for the former Olympic Stadium has been granted planning permission on the 27th October, subject to conditions of operation and impact mitigation. The procurement process for the new wrap is ongoing and a preferred contractor should be announced before the end of the year. The news was published in LLDC's board meeting from 24th November.
The wrap will stretch around the north, east and south sides of the Stadium and would be capable of displaying moving, colour content. The LEDs will be housed in a structure attached to back of the existing Stadium bowl. Hours of usage will be limited so as to be sensitive to neighbouring uses and ecology. The west side of the Stadium, facing the Fish Island Conservation Area, will not have any LEDs.
The LLDC say the wrap is intended to fulfil the following objectives:
Enhance the Stadium aesthetics and provide a creative, feature lighting installation;
Provide flexibility to reflect the look and feel of events taking place within the multi-use Stadium;
Provide a positive community asset – promote the wider Park, whilst ensuring content is sensitive to neighbours and neighbouring uses;
Provide the opportunity for Stadium naming rights partner activation.
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Rush Green Planning Permission approved
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Planning permission to transform Rush Green into a state of the art training facility has been approved by London Borough of Havering this week with minor conditions attached.
The full planning decision published three days ago can be found HERE . The council puts certain conditions on the transformation of Rush Green and requests further information where they claim insufficient information was supplied in the original planning application on behalf of West Ham.
Earlier today Slaven Bilic announced that the first team would be moving to Rush Green on Monday but the current ground also has basic facilities and the first team will need to slum it until the transformation of Rush Green is complete.
In February 2009, West Ham entered into an option agreement to purchase the freehold interest in the 29 acre Rush Green Ford Sports Ground from the Ford Motor Company. In September the same year, they completed the acquisition of the property for a sum of £1.4 million.
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Gaffer gets right response after shock
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic's out-of-the-blue decision to move the first team squad to Rush Green from Chadwell Heath came as a surprise to everybody inside the club today.
The manager had told nobody outside of his coaching staff what he had in mind but has immediately received the full backing of the board.
Whilst he clearly doesn't KNOW that Chadwell Heath is responsible for the injury record at the club he suspects that the soft/hard ground may be responsible.
And with start of the art training pitches in place at Rush Green he is determined to eliminate any last risk.
A club source said: "Nobody knew about the decision until today. We thought the changeover would take place next season but the facilities are in place and it's the manager's decision. He will get all the support he requires.
"There are three world class pitches at Rush Green – all of which had laser beams used on them to make sure they were 100 per cent level.
"Not everybody is of the view that Chadwell Heath is the sole problem but all the facilities are in place at Rush Green and if the manager wants to use them it's entirely his decision.
It could have the effect of freshening everybody up as well."
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West Ham ranked 8th in injury table
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 9, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Despite the growing Injury list with Lanzini and Reid added in the last week, West Ham only sit in 8th place with regards to the most number of injuries in the Premier League. With Enner Valencia set to return as soon as Saturday, West Ham could drop as low as 10th in the Premier League in terms of number of injured squad players.
1st Newcastle 10 Injuries
2nd Bournemouth 9 Injuries
3rd Manchester United 9 Injuries
4th Arsenal 7 Injuries
5th Liverpool 7 Injuries
6th Manchester City 7 Injuries
7th Everton 6 Injuries
8th West Ham 6 Injuries (Payet, Valencia, Lanzini, Sakho, Reid and Moses)
9th Spurs 5 Injuries
10th Aston Villa 5 Injuries
11th Southampton 4 Injuries
12th Sunderland 4 Injuries
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Irons to move from Chadwell Heath
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic has announced the squad is on its way from its Chadwell Heath training headquarters. The news comes at more or less the same time as the crushing news that Winston Reid is set to miss the next four weeks with a new hamstring injury – his third in less than a year. Many fans have been questioning the Chadwell Heath facilities for a long time and whilst the announcement is a shock, there is absolutely no question that it will be met with widespread relief. The manager made the news public in his morning press conference ahead of the weekend match against Stoke City which sees the squad without Reid, Payet, Moses, Lanzini and Sakho. Bilic declared: "We were planning on moving the training ground to Rush Green at the end of the season, now we are moving that forward. "We will be training at Rush Green from Monday. The pitches here at Chadwell Heath are soft on top, but hard underneath which is the worse combination. So I have made the decision to go to Rush Green where the pitches are better."
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Reid's worrying injury history
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Winston Reid's injury problems – and his hamstring in particular – are becoming a regular issue in his West Ham career. The central defender – always an awesome presence when available – has now gone down with his third 'hammy' problem inside 11 months. And in football season terms that can be translated to nine games missed as a result and laid off for a total of 53 days.
Within the same 11 months the central defender has also suffered thigh muscle strains and hip problems which saw him miss 56 days and eight games. And back in the 13/14 season the Kiwi was laid off for a total of 85 days which saw him miss 16 games.
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Boots issue raised again on injuries
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 10, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
A story suggesting in part that the boots worn by players may be contributing towards the injuries suffered by Premier League players is again doing the rounds on social media following the shocking injury crisis at Upton Park. The Mail Online published a story back in October saying that six Premier League stars who suffered devastating cruciate ligament injury blows in the last six weeks were wearing Nike boots. The players were Danny Ings ( Liverpool), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Tim Krul (Newcastle), Tyrone Mings (Bournemouth), Callum Wilson (Bournemouth) and Max Gradel (Bournemouth). A quick check on Google has shown this morning that Winston Reid – who has suffered his third ligament injury in less than a year – is also using Nike boots along with Enner Valencia, Manuel Lanzini and Dimitri Payet. However, there is absolutely no evidence connecting the Irons injuries to the brand of boots the players wear and within the Mail story a footwear industry source said: "Injuries are part and parcel of the game and have always occurred. What brand is being used is a complete coincidence – this has nothing to do with boots!"
Injury data analyst Ben Dinnery is quoted as saying: "Nothing shouts out that this is a problem with football and certainly not Nike. "In almost every case there has been some form of coming together with either the turf or an opponent. I know that Eddie Howe and Sean Dyche have investigated and found that the injuries were unavoidable." And a West Ham source, when asked by ClaretandHugh whether we should be over-worried by Winston's injury record over the past 12 months said: "No, it really is down to bad luck."
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West Ham pair Winston Reid and Victor Moses out for rest of year
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 10/12/15 10:59am
SSN
West Ham duo Winston Reid and Victor Moses have been ruled out until the new year with hamstring injuries. Defender Reid was injured in training on Wednesday and could be set for a long spell out, with the results of a scan expected on Friday. Jack Sullivan, son of Hammers' joint-chairman David Sullivan, tweeted: "Very bad news. Reid injured in training 4-6 weeks with hamstring. But some players will return faster than anticipated due to hard work."
On-loan Chelsea winger Moses sustained a similar injury against Manchester United last weekend and manager Slaven Bilic fears he will not be available for up to six weeks. They are the latest additions to a growing casualty list at Upton Park which threatens to derail their fine start to the season. West Ham have already lost Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho until February while Manuel Lanzini is out for six weeks with a thigh problem. Enner Valencia has been out for five weeks with an ankle injury but he could give Bilic a boost by being added to the squad to face Stoke on Saturday. On Reid, Bilic said: "It doesn't look good. It's one of those they tell you is four to six weeks but it doesn't look like a small one. He slipped and felt it rupture. "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's a blow, we have had six injuries since the Everton game. Before that we had a full squad, then Payet and Valencia were injured against Everton and now we have four muscle injuries."
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West Ham's Olympic Stadium to include Sir Trevor Brooking Stand as club sell more season tickets than ever before
West Ham are in their final season at Upton Park ahead of the big move
Slaven Bilic's side will ply their trade at the Olympic Stadium next year
David Gold toured the new ground with three players on Wednesday
By MATT BARLOW FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:01, 10 December 2015 | UPDATED: 12:01, 10 December 2015
As West Ham prepare for their last Christmas at the Boleyn Ground they are also busy decorating the Olympic Stadium ready for the big move next year. New computer-generated images have been released as the project enters its final phase, detailing how parts of the venue will look when they move from Upton Park to their new home in Stratford in the summer. There will be claret everywhere - and some blue - with Bobby Moore's No.6 shirt above the concourse of the stand which will carry his name. A stand will also be named after Sir Trevor Brooking, as at Upton Park, and the crossed hammers design will be on display in the lower tier seats of 54,000-capacity arena. West Ham have already sold more season tickets for next season than at any other season in the club's history, thanks to a bigger capacity at the new venue and price cuts which mean adult season tickets start at £289. Numbers have not been revealed but Sportsmail understands the club is on track to have sold 35,000 season tickets for 2016/17 by the end of this year, an increase of about 10,000 on this season. Each current season ticket holder has been invited to buy an additional two before sales are opened in February to those on a waiting list of more than 20,000. Co-chairman David Gold toured the site yesterday with three players – Manuel Lanzini, Aaron Cresswell and Reece Oxford – and some competitions winners. They settled into what will be the home-team dressing room as Gold pointed out how it was big enough for 25 players, and therefore meets UEFA criteria. 'We're ready for Europe,' said Gold, as he led the entourage through the claret-and-blue tiled shower rooms, across a warm-up track for athletes, down the tunnel and out onto a horribly churned-up pitch, a result of the 'Race of Champions' motor sport bonanza last month. A brand new Desso pitch will be installed next year and overseen by head groundsman Dougie Robertson.
With the Rugby World Cup matches and other autumn events over, the construction work have restarted to make the stadium ready for its new tenants. The interior and a new on-site club store will start to take shape next month and West Ham are working to further personalise the stadium subject to planning permission. Vice-chairman Karren Brady said: 'The new designs further add to those we announced earlier this year, which will see 'West Ham' spelt in the new 'Kop' style East Stand, a claret crossed hammers design adorning three stands and claret and blue featuring inside and outside the new Stadium. 'We have always promised our supporters that this will look and feel like the home of West Ham United and today's new CGI is further evidence that we have been true to our word. 'Secondly, it is fantastic news that we have now sold more season tickets for next season than in any other in our history, and that is with nine months still to go before our first game. 'Demand has surpassed all of our expectations and that is testament to the rapid progress we have seen on and off the pitch over the past few years.
'We desperately want as many Hammers fans as possible to sample what will be an unbelievable experience of watching their team in this stunning new venue, so I would urge anyone already on the Priority List to make sure they seize their opportunity when it comes around. 'And I would encourage anyone yet to join to do so immediately to stand any chance of getting what will be the hottest ticket in London come August 2016.'
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West Ham join crowded race to sign Boca Juniors goal machine Jonathan Calleri
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham are the latest club to be linked with a move for Boca Juniors star Jonathan Calleri. According to Calcio Mercato, West Ham have made contact with the representatives of Boca Juniors striker Jonathan Calleri. The Hammers have been hit by a stunning run of injuries in the final third, with Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini, Victor Moses, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia all on the treatment table. Fans now unsurprisingly want to see West Ham bring in a new striker in January, and reports suggest that the Upton Park hierarchy are at least exploring that possibility. Calcio Mercato report that West Ham have contacted the representatives of Boca Juniors hero Jonathan Calleri, who is attracting plenty of interest from English clubs. Stoke City were suggested to be leading the race for his signature over the summer according to The Mirror, whilst Argentine newspaper Ole published a shocking report earlier this season, suggesting that Championship club Brighton were pursuing a stunning deal to bring Calleri to the South Coast. Earlier this week, Marca claimed that Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are pursuing the 22-year-old ahead of the January transfer window, with both clubs needing attacking reinforcements. Now, it appears that West Ham have entered the race for Calleri's signature, and after racking up 21 goals and 11 assists in 53 games for Boca, it's no surprise that clubs are queueing up the Argentine hitman - and the Hammers may now be hoping to pip their rivals to his signature.
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West Ham open talks with Chelsea transfer target Jonathan Calleri – report
Will Giles for Metro.co.uk
Thursday 10 Dec 2015 9:45 am
West Ham have held talks with Chelsea transfer target Jonathan Calleri, according to reports. Calleri, 22, is set to leave Boca Juniors imminently after appearing to bid farewell to the club on Twitter. Chelsea and Inter are both believed to be keen on the player, but according to Calciomercato, West Ham have entered into talks with the player's entourage. It's claimed that Inter are struggling to finance a deal for the Argentinean, and although Chelsea will likely be seen as a more favourable destination than West Ham, Slaven Bilic could go all out for the striker given the injury crisis that has engulfed his squad.
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West Ham's Winston Reid and Victor Moses out until new year with injuries
• Defender Reid hurt in training session during week
• Moses suffered problem against Manchester United
Thursday 10 December 2015 10.42 GMT Last modified on Thursday 10 December 2015 10.44 GMT
The Guardian
West Ham's Winston Reid and Victor Moses have been ruled out until the new year with hamstring injuries. The defender Reid was injured in training on Wednesday and could be set for a long spell out, with the results of a scan expected on Friday. The on-loan Chelsea winger Moses picked up his injury against Manchester United last weekend and his manager Slaven Bilic has ruled him out for four to six weeks. They are the latest additions to a growing casualty list at Upton Park which threatens to derail their fine start to the season. The Hammers have already lost Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho until February while Manuel Lanzini is out for six weeks with a thigh problem suffered in training. Enner Valencia has been out for five weeks with an ankle injury but he could give Bilic a boost by being added to the squad to face Stoke on Saturday. Bilic said: "Reid got injured in training, it doesn't look good. It's one of those they tell you is four to six weeks but it doesn't look like a small one. He slipped and felt it rupture. "Victor is out for four to six weeks. It's a blow, we have had six injuries since the Everton game. Before that we had a full squad, then Payet and Valencia were injured against Everton and now we have four muscle injuries."
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