Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen could not help Bradford City reach the League One play-off final on Friday as the Bantams drew 1-1 with Millwall at the New Den in the midfielder's final game on loan. The League One side went into the fixture hoping to overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg at Valley Parade but the task was made almost impossible when Lee Gregory bagged for the Lions after 33 minutes. Jamie Proctor's strike a minute before the break gave Phil Parkinson's men hope but the hosts held on to their two-goal advantage and progressed to the final where they will face Barnsley. Cullen was substituted at half time while fellow loan partner Reece Burke was an unused substitute following his recovery from an injury problem. The former has featured 17 times on loan in Yorkshire this season, impressing in his central midfield role, while Burke played 36 times for the club, winning a number of awards at the end of the season including the Player of the Year accolade. The pair have returned to West Ham United, along with a number of other players on loan elsewhere this season.
Jaanai Gordon, however, featured for Sligo Rovers on Saturday in their 3-0 FAI Cup win against Cabinteely.
Kieran Sadlier notched either side of a Jimmy Keohane strike to send Rovers through to the fourth round of the competition.
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Scully signs professional terms with Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Republic of Ireland U17 international Anthony Scully has signed a new long term contract with the Club. The creative midfielder has capped off an impressive campaign by putting pen to paper on a new deal that will see him turn professional. Having committed his future to the Hammers, a delighted Scully said: "It's a great feeling. It's a feeling every young boy dreams of, to be a professional footballer. Now that I've earned my first one, the hard work continues to try and earn more with West Ham. "It's a very proud moment for myself and my family. I've put a lot of hard work into getting to where I am today and my family have supported me from the beginning. "This season was a mixture of highs and lows, it didn't start off the best as I unfortunately picked up an injury in pre-season that kept me out until January. I managed to get back playing in the U18s, scoring some goals and also made a few appearances for the U21s."
Having overcome a frustrating opening to this season, his recent performances for the Hammers saw Scully earn a call up into the Irish international set up. He continued: "Captaining Ireland in the U17 Euros was a special moment also for me and my family as it has been a dream of mine. "This week has also been a good one for me officially signing my first professional contract with West Ham and being selected for the Republic of Ireland U19."
With this campaign hosting a range of important milestones for the youngster, the 17-year-old is looking ahead to further achievements in the near future. He finished by saying: "It's a great time for all who are a part of West Ham United. I remember my first ever time watching West Ham with my Dad; Carlos Tevez scored a free kick and the atmosphere was unbelievable.
"I was at the new stadium a while back and it looks amazing, I'm looking forward to playing in it one day. "I am looking to constantly improve and come back to pre-season feeling good. I'm looking to push into the U21s team, play regularly for them hopefully leading to some opportunities with the first team."
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Payet - It has been a magnificent first year
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet has had a year to remember at West Ham United following his move to the east London Club last summer and cannot believe the strong relationship he has forged with the Hammers supporters. The French star became a cult hero with the Hammers fans following his outstanding displays which saw him pick up FIVE trophies at the end of the season awards. Few could forget his unstoppable free-kicks which saw him become one of the best set-piece specialist takers in the world. Payet netted 12 goals, created 12 assists and was voted into the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
So what goal stood out for Payet and how much did he enjoy scoring at the Boleyn Ground?
Payet said: "Of course there are the two free-kicks at Old Trafford and at home to Crystal Palace, but the most important one came away to Everton because it was the winning goal in our comeback. "It has been a magnificent first year and looking back at the results I've had for club and country it has been really fantastic and also these individual accolades are also lovely to receive. "I would also like to thank all my team-mates, the staff here, the coaching staff, the medical staff were fantastic when I was injured and of course the fans, there's a lot of love there and they've really encouraged me and helped me to settle in. "Of course it is fantastic to receive recognition from fellow players and, on top of that, it's in the hardest league in the world so it is a really great feeling and I feel very honoured. "Even though it is a personal award I still want to share it with my team-mates because the fact that I have won it is down to their help and the fact that they have had confidence in me."
Payet is now preparing with the France squad for the European Championship Finals which get underway on June 10 and will be hoping to have a similar impact for his country when they prepare to face Romania, Switzerland and Albania.
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Shephard - It was an extraordinary experience
WHUFC.com
TV presenter and lifelong Hammers fan Ben Shephard admits he will never forget presenting the closing ceremony at the Boleyn Ground and says it is the greatest job he will ever be given.
Shephard was honoured to lead the unforgettable proceedings following the memorable victory over Manchester United.
The Good Morning Britain presenter was joined by over 30,000 fans and millions watching worldwide on television as the Club enjoyed a unique event that brought an end to 112 years of West Ham in Upton Park.
Following a spectacular pyrotechnic and light show, Shephard was joined on the pitch by a number of former players who had won the prestigious Hammer of the Year award, while few could forget the final segment when the Club's greatest son Bobby Moore returned to walk down the tunnel and turned out the Boleyn Ground lights one final time.
Having been part of many memorable experiences on television, Shephard says nothing will compare to him being part of a historic occasion at his beloved Club and says he will always look back with great pride and satisfaction.
Shephard said: "I kept having to pinch myself that I was out there. I could never have imagined that I would be leading the celebrations as a West Ham fan who used to come over and stand behind the goal when I was a youngster.
"It was an extraordinary experience and a real privilege. It was one of the greatest jobs I will ever be given and will be something I talk about with my kids and friends for many years to come.
"I keep getting stopped now and people telling me about the event. Someone was on holiday in the Bahamas watching, while another was in America. It was an amazing send-off and a fantastic farewell.
"The one thing that is placating my emotions of leaving the Boleyn Ground is that we are moving to the new Stadium, and I was lucky enough to work there during the Olympics and went to the Rugby World Cup. It is an extraordinary venue and was blown away by it."
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The best season of my life
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd May 2016
By: James Gavin
Although we ended up 7th, a lot of people - including me - will be disappointed by that. But this has been an amazing season to be a West Ham fan for so many reasons.
I'm 18, so West Ham haven't been the most successful club I could have supported. But it's in me, and I love it.
Previously, my favourite season was our most recent Championship season. Winning week in, week out, chanting "we are top of the league" and going up at Wembley are such happy memories. This season tops all of that for many reasons.
Firstly, and the most important reason for me, is our new style of football. When our team has the ball, I'm excited.
Whether it be Payet or Lanzini using their skill and trickery to beat multiple players; Noble and Kouyate dictating the game with solid defence and ability to turn it into an attack; even Antonio (who must run on petrol) and Cresswell dominating the flanks with exciting wing play.
And our new passing style is just such a joy to watch, and has allowed me to understand what the real 'West Ham way' is all about.
Attitude of the team is also another key factor in our success this season. For many years we haven't exactly been the most motivated team, comebacks were few and fair between and maintaining a lead was always nervy (this still needs a bit of work).
Under Avram Grant, there was the classic scenario where we would happen to be leading 1- 0 at half time, and you could just picture his worried face transcending onto the players and us ending up losing 3-1.
Or under Big Sam (who I am a fan of due to the stability he brought); when we went 2-0 down you just knew our team wasn't capable of scoring three goals. This has all changed.
No longer do I give up on a game until it is officially over, because with this group of players and their mindset they can turn anything around. The perfect example would be at Everton (who we always do badly against) where we turned a 2 0 deficit away from home into a 3 2 win. Amazing!
The Avram days are over as well and I think our victory at home against Chelsea is a great example of this. Previously, if Chelsea equalised, we would never have been able to suddenly rally and turn the match into three points. But we did, and that is partly down to our team's great self belief.
Going from setting up for one point against any big team, to having a pop at three, has been really good fun and this has been a great season for memorable wins.
When we went to Stamford Bridge a couple of years ago, and the '19th century football' argument arose (which was very fun to wind Chelsea fans up about) it showed the type of team we were. We worked dammed hard for a point and there wasn't much fun in that.
There were times when a team like Man City could literally pass the ball through our defence, with our players unsure as to whose job it was to stop it this time. We'd concede, and that would be game over. That wasn't fun.
Away wins at Liverpool, Arsenal and Man City were all brilliant and show what a great season we have had. We went against these teams with a solid(ish) defence and played pacy, counter-attacking football. It paid off and was great for all of us to watch.
We have shown this season that we can compete against any team, and we are not scared of who they are. One of the games I really like to look back on was our 2-2 draw at home to Man City.
This was just one of the most exciting games of football I've ever witnessed. It was such a great end-to-end game. It looked like a clash of two quality teams and that's what we almost are now - a quality team!
By no means are we perfect though, finishing 7th has showed this. We need to tighten up our defence and try to find that elusive, injury-free, 20-goal-a-season striker. But we have come such a long way this season.
With a successful transfer window we could improve even more. However, by improving we may only achieve the same or even a lower league position as both Chelsea and Liverpool, who finished below us this season, should improve.
In summary, we should all be pleased with the great season we have had. A few more "ifs" and "maybes" in our favour and we might have qualified for the Champions League!
Thanks to Manchester United we can now look forward to European football again next season. That's the icing on the cake for a great season - hopefully the first of many under Slaven Bilic.
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West Ham seeded for Europa draw
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be one of 29 seeded teams to take part in the third qualifying round of the Europa League later this summer.
United's co-efficient rating* of 16.256 is the 13th highest of the 48 clubs who have thus far secured qualification for next season's Europa League and ensures Slaven Bilic's team will be one of the seeded clubs to enter the third preliminary stage.
So far, 25 of the 29 possible opponents West Ham could face in the third qualifying round (which takes place on 28 July/4 Aug) have been determined; they are as follows:
Neftchi Baku (Azb); AEK Larnaca (Cyp), FC Oleksandriya (Ukr), AIK Stockholm (Swe): Slovan Bratislava (Slv); FC Luzern (Sui); Videoton Fehérvár (Hun); FK Aktobe (Kaz); Vojvodina Novi Sad (Srb); Istanbul Basaksehir (Tur); Strømsgodset IF (Now); Shakhtior Saligorsk (Bel); Spartak Trnava (Slv); Heracles Almelo (Hol); Pandurii Târgu Jiu (Rom); Osmanlispor (Tur); Slavia Praha (Cze); IFK Göteborg (Swe); DVSC Debrecen (Hun); Hearts FC (Sco); FK Ventspils (Lat); Admira Wacker (Aus); BK Häcken (Swe); EL3 (Gre); Viitorul Constanta (Rom)
Should the Hammers progress to the next (play-off) round - the final stage before the group phase - it is unlikely however that they will continue to be seeded. A total of 44 teams will enter this stage, which contains 22 seeded teams and 22 non-seeded teams.
At present, and assuming all seeded teams qualify from the third qualifying round, West Ham will only be the 16th-highest-ranked club. In addition to the clubs that will have qualified for the play-off round via the previous (third) qualifying round, 15 beaten clubs from Champions League qualification enter the reckoning.
And should the Hammers win the play-off round's two-legged tie, which take place on 18/25 August, they will enter the Europa League group phase which comprises of 48 teams split into 12 groups.
Unfortunately West Ham's low coefficient would almost certainly ensure they will feature in Pot 4 of the draw, the lowest seeds for the group draw. The six group matches will take place on Thursday evenings between 15 September and 8 December.
The last 32 phase - consisting of the 12 winners from the group stage, 12 runners-up and the eight teams to finish third in their Champions League groups - takes place on 16/23 February, whilst the winners of these 16 ties enter the last 16 (9/16 March).
The quarter finals will be played on 13/20 April, the semi finals (also two-legged) take place on 4/11 May with the final - being held next season at the Friends Arena in Stockholm - scheduled for 24 May.
In all, West Ham would play 19 matches were they to reach next May's final.
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L'OM slap €40million price tag on West Ham target Batshuayi
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Marseille will refuse to sell West Ham target Michy Batshuayi for less than €40million due to a sell-on clause in his contract. The financially-troubled Ligue 1 club have thus far resisted all approaches for the 22-year-old Belgian striker, who moved to L'OM from Standard Liege in 2014. And that's largely due to a whopping 35 per cent sell-on clause in his contract that entitles the Belgian club to more than a third of any profit gained by his sale. Marseille paid circa £4.5million for Batshuayi two years ago this summer, since when he scored 26 goals in 62 appearances in the French top flight. But thus far no club has come close to meeting L'OM's valuation of the striker - despite interest from clubs including Manchester City, Juventus and Inter, as well as the Hammers.
Another player Marseille may be willing to part company with in order to balance the books is full back and former French youth international Benjamin Mendy. The 21-year-old would be available for a fee in the region of £15million; in addition to West Ham, Premier League champions Leicester City are also reported to be monitoring his situation.
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Hammers miss out on Ibrahimovic
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham look certain to miss out on signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic, after it was revealed that the Swedish international was poised to join Manchester United. THe chances of West Ham securing the signature of one of the world's most instantly-recognisable footballers were always slim, at best - especially once it was revealed that the 34-year-old was seeking in excess of £200,000 per week wages. And rumours emerging this afternoon suggest that the 6'5" striker, who has featured previously for Juventus, Barcelona, Inter and PSG will be coming to the Premier League this summer - but to Old Trafford, rather than the Olympic Stadium. Ibrahimovic is reported to be set to sign a one or two-year deal with Manchester United, before moving to the MLS thereafter. The veteran goalscorer has made 112 appearances for Sweden in an international career stretching back 15 years. The Hammers were first linked with a move for Ibra back in 2002, when he was at Ajax.
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Ogbonna named in preliminary Italian Euro squad
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United central defender Angelo Ogbonna has been included in Italy's provisional 30-man squad for this summer's European Championships. The 28-year-old, who joined West Ham last summer has been included in Antonio Conte's squad for the tournament which is being staged in France between 10 June and 10 July. Ogbonna is one of only two Italians based in the Premier League to be included in COnte's selection; the other being Southampton striker Graziano Pelle. Ogbonna will join fellow Hammers Dimitri Payet (France), James Collins (Wales) and Darren Randolph (Ireland) at the tournament.
Provisional Italian squad
Goalkeepers: Federico Marchetti, Antonio Mirante, Marco Sportiello.
Defenders: Francesco Acerbi, Davide Astori, Leonardo Bonucci, Armando Izzo, Angelo Ogbonna, Lorenzo Tonelli.
Midfielders: Marco Benassi, Federico Bernardeschi, Antonio Candreva, Danilo Cataldi, Daniele De Rossi, Lorenzo De Silvestri, Stephan El Shaarawy, Alessandro Florenzi, Emanuele Giaccherini, Jorginho, Marco Parolo, Roberto Soriano, Davide Zappacosta.
Forwards: Fabio Borini, Eder, Ciro Immobile, Lorenzo Insigne, Leonardo Pavoletti, Graziano Pelle.
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Europa fixtures are not a problem
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
C and H
West Ham will hear who their Europa League opponents are on the 15th July and there is a fifty percent chance they will be drawn away from home in the first leg which would not cause a fixture problem as the stadium will be converted from Athletics mode by the 1st August.
The Europa League first leg is scheduled to be played on 28th July with second leg on the 4th August.
Should the Hammers be unlucky and drawn at home for the first leg they will just ask UEFA and the opposing team to switch legs. This should be a simple process and is not without precedence. Last season, West Ham were drawn away in Andorra against FC Lusitans but both sides agreed to swap the legs and the first leg was instead played at the Boleyn Ground on Thursday 2nd July with the away leg on Thursday 9th July.
Other commentators have mentioned the Juventus friendly 7th August could be rescheduled but there is little room to reschedule with the Premier League starting on Saturday 13th August and quite frankly no reason to.
The Juventus friendly will probably see just a cameo appearance from many of the senior players with a long season ahead. The likes of Reece Oxford, Reece Burke, Darren Randolph, Havard Nordtveit and Toni Martínez will likely get a start along with many of the new signings who won't necessary go straight into the first team having a significant role.
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Andy Carroll helps the homeless
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham striker Andy Carroll pulled over on his boys holiday road trip in Texas, USA to give a homeless man by the side of the road drinks, food and towels. A video posted on the 27 year old's personal social media account shows the lads laughing as they hand over over bottles of water, cans of Sprite, Pringles and beach towels before handing over their plastic cool box to a homeless person. The lads have visited Houston, Galveston and Austin in the state of Texas so far dodging a Tornado in Galveston when an emergency warning was sent out. The lads saw the funny side and took cover in a bath to wait out the storm.
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Gold responds to OS first game critics
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham Chairman, David Gold has been quick to answer critics disappointed that the Juventus friendly will no longer be the first game at the Olympic Stadium. Gold speaking on twitter said "We made clear that the date for the opening fixture might change dependent on our qualification for Europe. dg"
When one supporter suggested many fans will return tickets for the Juvnetus friendly but Gold replied: "I would be surprised if a supporter of West Ham would want to return his ticket for the game against Juventus. dg"
One Hammers fan called Paul Turner messaged Gold to say: "Hearing we can't play out first games at "home" because it will still be in athletics mode..If only we owned our own ground."
Gold quickly responded "Paul there are very few clubs that own their own grounds most are owned by there banks. dg"
Paul responded "David my house still has a mortgage on it .. But the bank doesn't tell me when I can use the house .." for which Gold replied: "True but if you don't make the payments they will. dg"
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Hammers linked with Colombian striker
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
According to Mercato 365, AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca has been added to West Ham's extended list of striker transfer targets this summer. He's scored 17 times in the league this season and added two assists but could be allowed to leave AC Milan in the summer and is valued at 30 million Euros (£23m). According to WhoScored.com, he's scored those goals despite managing only 1.9 shots per game. Squawka.com clocks his shooting accuracy at an excellent 67 percent—and it was as high as 70 percent in late February. The Colombia striker has been disappointed with the club's Italian's ability to compete for a Champions League place. The 29 year old has attracted interested from Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United as well as a host of European sides. Bacca has smashed 20 goals for AC Milan this season in all competitions having arrived from Sevilla last summer, and that's now 97 league goals in the last four seasons, across spells with Belgian side Club Brugge, La Liga's Sevilla and now AC Milan.
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West Ham end of season review: Slaven Bilic leads Hammers to brilliant season as they wave goodbye to Upton Park
West Ham finished seventh in Premier League following excellent season
Popular Slaven Bilic hit the ground running as manager with good results
Dimitri Payet quickly became the club's talisman and a fan hero
By MATT BARLOW FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:49, 23 May 2016 | UPDATED: 11:49, 23 May 2016
Now that the curtain has fallen on the domestic season, it's time to reflect on the highs and lows, heroes and and villains, and what the future may hold.
As part of our end-of-season guides to every team in the Premier League, Sportsmail's MATT BARLOW looks back at West Ham's best season in years...
In a nutshell, how was the season?
Brilliant beyond expectations. The best top-flight points total for 30 years, memorable away wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City and a perfect platform for the Olympic Stadium move. The feeble surrender to Romania's Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League was soon forgotten.
Who was the shining light?
Dmitri Payet: it did not take long for his twinkling toes and dazzling free-kick goals to land him the mantle as the darling of the fans at Upton Park. His brilliant form also secured a return to the France team and a new £125,000 a year contract until 2021, making him the best-paid West Ham player of all time.
Who failed to live up to expectations?
Alex Song: Unable to reproduce the form of his first season on loan from Barcelona and nagged by injuries. Bilic soon decided the midfield balance was better off with Cheikhou Kouyate and the wonderfully consistent Mark Noble in the centre and Song was forgotten.
How did the manager get on?
Better than anyone envisaged, considering he was far from the first choice. Bilic started with a win at Arsenal and his team produced a stirring comeback to beat Manchester United in the final home game. In between he said the right things, produced exciting football and generated the atmosphere around the club.
What was the best moment?
Winston Reid's goal to complete a stirring comeback and clinch a 3-2 win against Manchester United on an emotional final night at Upton Park. (Notwithstanding the mindless bottle attack by some fans on the United team bus, of course.)
And the worst?
Heavy defeat at home to Swansea in the penultimate home game of the season. Without this, West Ham would have gone into the final day of the season with a chance of finishing fourth.
Reasons to be cheerful for next season?
A new dawn at the Olympic Stadium with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, an exciting team and a charismatic manager.
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West Ham will take the Europa League seriously, insists chairman David Gold
West Ham qualified for Europe thanks to Manchester United's FA Cup win
Hammers had missed out after finishing seventh in the Premier League
But United's victory over Crystal Palace secured a Europa League spot
By IAN RODRICKS, REUTERS
PUBLISHED: 11:28, 23 May 2016 | UPDATED: 11:28, 23 May 2016
West Ham United will not take Europa League lightly next season after being gifted a spot in the competition by Manchester United's FA Cup triumph, joint chairman David Gold has said.
West Ham missed out on qualifying for Europe after finishing seventh in the Premier League but United's victory over Crystal Palace at Wembley on Saturday secured a Europa League spot for Slaven Bilic's men for second successive year. 'It was an exciting and thrilling end to the final and what a goal from (Jesse) Lingard to win the game,' Gold told the club's website. 'There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left celebrating as we are back in Europe. 'As we prepare for the big move into the new stadium this is another exciting challenge for the football club.' West Ham lost to Romania's Astra Giurgiu in the third qualifying round in Europe's second tier competition last season but Gold insisted the club were keen to add to their trophy haul as they move into a new era at London's Olympic Stadium. 'We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it,' Gold added.
'It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played in the early rounds last summer.'
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, May 24
Monday, May 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd May 2016
Runners-up spot for Hammers in Hong Kong
WHUFC.com
West Ham United finished as runners-up in the Hong Kong Sevens tournament on
Sunday for the second consecutive year as they were beaten 2-0 by Aston
Villa in the final. The young Hammers progressed from Group D as winners on
Saturday after two draws against Singapore Cricket Club and HKFA and a
victory over Leicester City, securing their quarter-final place against
local side Eastern on Sunday. And after a 1-0 win in the last-eight of the
competition in the morning, the Hammers came up against Seoul FC in the
semi-final stage for a place in the final once again after last year's 3-2
defeat to Atletico Madrid. Another one-goal victory followed and the Hammers
found themselves up against fellow English side Aston Villa in the final,
but the Midlands side's 2-0 success saw them lift the trophy. Full-back
Lewis Page grabbed the Claret and Blue's winner against Eastern in the
quarter-final, firing a left-footed attempt across the keeper into the
bottom corner, and spirits were high heading into the final four. He said:
"I haven't scored in a while, so it was nice to get on the scoresheet. It
was great to get us into the semi-finals so hopefully we can push on from
here."
Another one-goal victory was all that was needed when FC Seoul were the
opponents in the next round, and Jahmal Hector-Ingram was the scorer,
tapping in from one yard out following a superb passing move. Alex Pike, who
scored two for the Hammers on Saturday in the tournament, reacted: "The game
[against Seoul] was our toughest game so far. We got to the final last year
and we're there again, so fingers crossed we can go and win this one."
But it wasn't to be again for the Hammers, as Villa scored through Harry
McKirdy and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy to lift the trophy.
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Gold - We are ready for the Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold is thrilled to see the Hammers
back in the Europa League next season and sees no reason why the Club cannot
reach the latter stages of the competition.
Jesse Lingard's extra-time winner for Manchester United in the FA Cup Final
win over Crystal Palace on Saturday ensured West Ham will be playing in
Europe for the second consecutive season.
Mr Gold feels it is just rewards for a memorable final year at the Boleyn
Ground where the Club accumulated the highest number of points in the
Premier League, scored the most goals and recorded the best top-flight goal
difference since 1986.
Slaven Bilic has already made his first signing of the summer with the
arrival of Norway international Havard Nordtveit and with more to follow, Mr
Gold feels the squad will be well equipped for another European adventure.
Mr Gold said: "It was an exciting and thrilling end to the Final and what a
goal from Lingard to win the game.
"There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left
celebrating as we are back in Europe for the second consecutive year.
"As we prepare for the big move into the new Stadium this is another
exciting challenge for the football Club.
"Liverpool showed it is possible to go all the way and they were very
unlucky to lose in the Final. They could have been in the Champions League
next season.
"We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it.
"It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get
European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played
in the early rounds last summer.
"They are now a year older and have more experience under their belt so will
be better equipped to deal with the pressures of playing in such a big
competition.
"We will also have new signings coming into the squad who will also make the
squad stronger and it will be another great opportunity for us to challenge
for major silverware and a Champions League position."
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE EXCLUSIVE: ENQUIRES GO IN FOR A NUMBER OF PLAYERS AND CLUB
FAVOURITES SET TO LEAVE! ALL TRANSFERS DISCUSSED HERE
22 MAY 2016
The West Ham Way.co.uk
So we are in Europe after all. I personally cannot wait and think that it
is a good thing for us for a number of reasons. Firstly European football
under the lights is a great way to welcome the new stadium. Secondly, for
years I have dreamt of European football to be a regular thing for us and
whilst it isn't the Champions League that we dreamt of it is a start.
Thirdly, it may attract players to the club. Most players want to play in
Europe even it is the Europa. Fourthly, arguably the most important reason
is that we may be able to keep some of our players happy. We are lucky to
have two brilliant goalkeepers; Randolph could play regularly in cup
competition. Youngsters like Burke, Oxford and Cullen can get more games
than they would without Europe and of course it is a chance to keep four
strikers scoring. The last reason for me is that it may give some fans a
chance to see the football at the Olympic stadium (Mahindra Stadium) who may
not get the chance. Our season ticket sales have been phenomenal but as a
consequence many have been left frustrated. This may mean some get the
chance to go who would usually miss out. For me Europe is definitely a good
thing.
So on to transfers and the start of what is to be a very busy window. We
have had a well-publicised bid for Lacazette rejected. This bid was
rejected. The bid did not break down because of payment structure, it was
rejected because they wanted more money for him. The problem we have is
that PSG have registered their interest and with Ibrahimovic (another one of
our targets) leaving they want a top forward. The chance to raid one of
their main rivals, for their best player has been appealing to them. PSG
have a number of targets as well as Lacazette but Lyon know they have a man
in demand and a man they can demand more for. To say the bid is "dead" is
too early at this stage. It is early May so until the player joins another
club, the bid cannot be said to be dead. The player has expressed his
keenness to join an English club so there is a chance. Lyon have apparently
named their price and we are looking to meet it again. Whether this will be
enough with PSG being around I am not sure but the player is the number one
target.
We have launched enquires for many players. Another "enquiry" that has got
a lot of media attention is the discussion with Bournemouth for Richie and
Wilson. As I said at the time we were "keen" on both players and spoke to
his agent who passed on our interest to the club and leaked to the press.
The discussions with the agent were not intended to become public and were
not meant to come out just before Bournemouth played their last game. This
was all triggered by his agent and then became a good excuse for the
Bournemouth manager when they lost against Manchester United. We "enquired"
as to their availability and we wouldn't have paid anywhere near the £25m
that the media reported.
As I broke in one of my previous columns we have also triggered Jamie
Vardy's £25m release clause. Whether we can persuade him to leave a spot
in the Champions League with the current Champions is a different matter but
we will offer a large wage to do so. We are apparently happy to double his
wages and take him up to a huge basic wage.
Another player who we have launched a bid for and one I expect is the most
likely to go through at this stage is Jonathan Calleri the Argentine who
attracted the attention of the club whilst playing alongside Carlos Tevez at
Boca Juniors. This deal will be more likely to be a loan move.
We have enquired about many forwards Batshuayi being the main one but he
seems most likely to move to Spurs. There are domestic players in Benteke,
the Ayew's and Bony as well as a number of forwards who have scored in other
countries such as Icardi and Embolo (someone we have monitored for a while
but have doubts over). Another player who we are interested in but hasn't
been that well reported is Martin Braithwaite but again this is just an
enquiry rather than him necessarily being a top target. There is some talk
that Gignac, who we have been interested in before, could also be someone we
move for. He is currently in Mexico and apparently not happy. No enquiry
for him has been made but depending on how the other transfers go this may
be revisited. Another name to watch out for that hasn't been mentioned in
any media circles is Benjamin Moukandjo, a Cameroon International striker at
Lorient in France.
As far as right backs go I reported all the targets in my last column.
These where Gregory van der Wiel, his PSG teammate Serge Aurier, Debuchy of
Arsenal, Rafael da Silva the ex-Manchester United right back and a couple of
other French right backs. Slav also has a couple from his Turkish days that
he is interested in too. We have made an offer to Gregory Van Der Wiel but
he has a number of offers but he is the top target there. If not the club
may look at Debuchy.
Wingers are also a priority again last week's column covered these. It has
been well reported elsewhere that we would like Tore of Super Slav's former
club. Yes he is on there but meeting with Bilic in Turkey didn't happen
this week. There are many other wing targets on the list too and watch out
for a former Premier League player who has had an outstanding season in
France for Nice. Hatem Ben Arfa is out of contract this Summer and is a
player the club would be interested in.
What we have to be assured in is that the chairman is working flat out to
land the best deals for the club. We have already brought in Nordvteit who
I had reported for months, so we already have one player in and we will sign
another 6-8 players I think so it is early days and no need to panic.
In terms of player departures a number of clubs are lining up make an offer
for Valencia. We will entertain offers for him and he is most likely to go
to China who will pay large wages for him. This is also the likely
destination of Alex Song too. Another player who we could let go is Obiang.
I mentioned this in tweets about two weeks ago but Italian and Spanish clubs
are interested in him and he has been frustrated at his lack of first team
opportunities. He likes the club but is considering his options. If we
land our forward targets there is a chance that Sakho will be allowed to
leave. Bilic has lost some faith in him and would be prepared to let him
go. Borussia Mönchengladbach has showed keen interest and there would also
be domestic interest and from the French league. David Sullivan is a big
fan of Sakho and has a lot of time for him so it will be interesting to see
what happens with him. I think it will depend on how many forwards we land.
It is true that we are considering selling James Tomkins. Long term Bilic
sees this first choice centre back partnership being Ogbonna and Reid. Both
players are at an age where they can continue for a number of years now.
James Collins provides excellent immediate back up and of course you have
the highly talented Reece Burke and Reece Oxford providing competition too.
Both these players are concerned about their first team opportunities.
Burke's contract is up next year and he is yet to sign. He is a huge West
Ham fan but he has his career to think of and there is already a lot of
interest in him. This week it has been well reported how Reece Oxford has
rejected an initial contract. His agent has caused the club a number of
issues recently but the club hope he will sign an initial £20k a week deal
to keep both Manchester clubs away from him. This means that another West
Ham supporter in Tomkins could be surplus to requirements. Both Crystal
Palace and Sunderland, with two of his ex-managers Pardew and Allardyce, are
front runners in moving for the player. We would be likely to accept a
£10-£12m bid. O'Brien, Moses, Emineke and Song will all leave too and this
will free up a lot of wages for players.
I was pleased to introduce the Olympic Insider to the site this week,
alongside the Boleyn Informer, myself and The Sullivan brothers we should
have the transfers pretty well covered on the new site. Please have a look
round at the new layout, it appears to be considered a positive step by all.
We have also had a number of exciting developments with the site and I have
three big meetings lined up. More will follow but it does mean there isn't
a media form that we won't have covered. Our next fanzine is now available
to buy for £3 for a paper copy and then we sell it electronically
afterwards. There will be many interesting features in there plus I answer
more questions about my account that I get asked regularly. Information
that you will not find elsewhere. Last edition we sold out very early so if
you wish to get your copy then please order here. The West Ham Way Fanzine
we are still looking for people to advertise on the site so that we can keep
expanding. We have a range of different prices and opportunities so please
get in touch.
Finally I would like to congratulate the youth team in getting to the final
in Hong Kong. There is a number of talented players in that squad and Mark
Philips has worked wonders with them too. I expect to see many of them have
great futures in the game.
The summer is expected to be a scorcher in temperature and I am sure it will
be a great one in transfers for us
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
YOUNG NIGERIAN SET TO JOIN HAMMERS?
22 MAY 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Nigeria U20 international Agor Chukwudi is attracting concrete interest from
the English Premier League, with West Ham tabling a bid of 200,000 euros for
the highly-rated starlet – Original article
The 17-year-old Chukwudi is from the stable of ASJ Academy, the same nursery
team where the Arsenal linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his
footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com.
"We are studying the offer and it is very likely we will accept it. We are
interested in the player's development and not the money that is being
offered."
To make up for the meager transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham,
ASJ Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them
ten percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Golden Eaglets at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netted against the United States in the group stage.
And if his name did not ring a bell , he made the back pages after scoring
the game-winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham facing Olympic Stadium issue after qualifying for Europa League
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 22/05/16 2:45pm
SSN
West Ham are facing a logistical headache after qualifying for next season's
UEFA Europa League. The Hammers' place in Europe was confirmed on Saturday
following Manchester United's 2-1 FA Cup final victory over Crystal Palace.
West Ham, who will play their football at the 60,000-seater Olympic Stadium
next season, will enter the competition in the third qualifying round, with
the first leg scheduled to take place on July 28 and the second leg a week
later on August 4. The timing of the first leg poses a slight issue for
West Ham as the Olympic Stadium will be used for the London Anniversary
Games on the weekend of July 22. It usually takes seven days to convert the
stadium from athletics mode to football mode and this may cause an issue for
West Ham if they are drawn to play the first leg at home.
If West Ham are indeed drawn to play the first leg at home, Sky Sports News
HQ understand that the club are likely to ask for the location of the legs
to be switched. But if they avoid being drawn at home in the first leg, the
return match a week later will be played at the Olympic Stadium and will be
West Ham's first game at their new home. The club, however, will continue
to mark the official opening of the Olympic Stadium with a marquee friendly
against Serie A champions Juventus on August 7.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's shiny new home at the Olympic Stadium may NOT be ready for the
start of their season
15:02, 22 MAY 2016 UPDATED 15:02, 22 MAY 2016
BY LIAM CORLESS
An athletics event in late July means West Ham may be unable to play the
home leg of their Europa League qualifier at the Olympic Stadium
The Mirror
West Ham might have to find an alternative venue to the Olympic Stadium for
the home leg of their Europa League play-off. The Hammers' place in Europe
next season was confirmed after Manchester United beat Crystal Palace to win
the FA Cup on Saturday. United's victory meant West Ham qualified for the
Europa League by virtue of their seventh-placed Premier League finish. A
spot in the competition is reserved for the winners of the FA Cup, but as
United had already qualified for Europe through their fifth-placed league
finish, the spot dropped down to West Ham. The third qualifying round
matches are set to take place on Thursday 28 July and Thursday 4 August.
If West Ham are drawn to play the second leg at home, there won't be an
issue, but if they are drawn to play the first leg at home, they will have
to explore alternative venues to the Olympic Stadium. That's because an
athletics event is scheduled to take place at the Olympic Stadium between
22-24 July, and it takes a week for the venue to be set up for football
purposes, which means it won't be ready in time. West Ham will discover the
course of action they need to take when the draw is made on Friday 15 July.
The club said farewell to the Boleyn Ground - their home since 2004 - with
an emotional win over Manchester United on May 10th.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
European schedule – Keep these dates free!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Keep these dates free in your diary! You never know, we could go all the
way!
Europa League Third qualifying round 15th July 2016 Draw date
First leg 28th July 20164 Second Leg 4th August 2016
Europa League Play-off round 5th August Draw date
First Leg 18th August 2016 Second Leg 25th August 2016
Europa League Group Stage 26th August 2016 Draw Date in Monaco
Euro trophyGroup Match 1 15th September 2016
Group Match 2 29th September 2016
Group Match 3 20th October 2016
Group Match 4 3rd November 2016
Group Match 5 24th November 2016
Group Match 6 8th December 2016
swedbank-Friends-arenaEuropa League Knock-Out Stage Last 32 12th December
Draw Date
First Leg 16th February 2017 Second leg 23rd February 2017
Europa League Knock-Out Stage Last 16 24th February Draw Date
First Leg 9th March 2017 Second leg 16th March 2017
stadiumEuropa League Quarter Finals 17th March Draw Date
First Leg 13th April 2017 Second leg 20th April 2017
Europa League Semi-Finals 21st April Draw Date
First Leg 4th May 2017 Second leg 11th May 2017
Europa League Final on 24th May 2017 at Friends Arena in Sweden
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Merson tips West Ham for Champions league
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has suggested that West Ham will qualify for
the Champions League by 2019.
West Ham will compete in the Europa League third qualifying round next
season after Manchester United won the FA Cup but at one point it looked
like the Hammers could have finished in the top four this season just gone.
West Ham reached a peak of third place during the season but spent a number
of weeks in fourth place. If it were not for some inconsistent referee
performances towards the end of the 2015-16 season the Irons could have
finished above Manchester City who finished the season just three points
above us in fourth place.
Merson says that West Ham who move to the former Olympic Stadium next season
will rub shoulders with Europe's elite in the coming years. Asked on Sky
Sports' Fantasy Football podcast whether West Ham would qualify for the
Champions League next year, Merson replied: "Within the next three years."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers bid for Nigerian midfield starlet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Allnigeriasoccer.com claims that West Ham has tabled a bid of £155,000 for
U20 international Chukwudi Agor.
The 17-year-old is from the ASJ Academy, the same team where the Arsenal
linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com. "We are studying the offer and it is
very likely we will accept it. We are interested in the player's development
and not the money that is being offered."
To make up for the small transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham, ASJ
Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them ten
percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Nigerian team at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netting against the United States in the group stage. He also
scored the winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United finished as runners-up in the Hong Kong Sevens tournament on
Sunday for the second consecutive year as they were beaten 2-0 by Aston
Villa in the final. The young Hammers progressed from Group D as winners on
Saturday after two draws against Singapore Cricket Club and HKFA and a
victory over Leicester City, securing their quarter-final place against
local side Eastern on Sunday. And after a 1-0 win in the last-eight of the
competition in the morning, the Hammers came up against Seoul FC in the
semi-final stage for a place in the final once again after last year's 3-2
defeat to Atletico Madrid. Another one-goal victory followed and the Hammers
found themselves up against fellow English side Aston Villa in the final,
but the Midlands side's 2-0 success saw them lift the trophy. Full-back
Lewis Page grabbed the Claret and Blue's winner against Eastern in the
quarter-final, firing a left-footed attempt across the keeper into the
bottom corner, and spirits were high heading into the final four. He said:
"I haven't scored in a while, so it was nice to get on the scoresheet. It
was great to get us into the semi-finals so hopefully we can push on from
here."
Another one-goal victory was all that was needed when FC Seoul were the
opponents in the next round, and Jahmal Hector-Ingram was the scorer,
tapping in from one yard out following a superb passing move. Alex Pike, who
scored two for the Hammers on Saturday in the tournament, reacted: "The game
[against Seoul] was our toughest game so far. We got to the final last year
and we're there again, so fingers crossed we can go and win this one."
But it wasn't to be again for the Hammers, as Villa scored through Harry
McKirdy and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy to lift the trophy.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold - We are ready for the Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold is thrilled to see the Hammers
back in the Europa League next season and sees no reason why the Club cannot
reach the latter stages of the competition.
Jesse Lingard's extra-time winner for Manchester United in the FA Cup Final
win over Crystal Palace on Saturday ensured West Ham will be playing in
Europe for the second consecutive season.
Mr Gold feels it is just rewards for a memorable final year at the Boleyn
Ground where the Club accumulated the highest number of points in the
Premier League, scored the most goals and recorded the best top-flight goal
difference since 1986.
Slaven Bilic has already made his first signing of the summer with the
arrival of Norway international Havard Nordtveit and with more to follow, Mr
Gold feels the squad will be well equipped for another European adventure.
Mr Gold said: "It was an exciting and thrilling end to the Final and what a
goal from Lingard to win the game.
"There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left
celebrating as we are back in Europe for the second consecutive year.
"As we prepare for the big move into the new Stadium this is another
exciting challenge for the football Club.
"Liverpool showed it is possible to go all the way and they were very
unlucky to lose in the Final. They could have been in the Champions League
next season.
"We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it.
"It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get
European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played
in the early rounds last summer.
"They are now a year older and have more experience under their belt so will
be better equipped to deal with the pressures of playing in such a big
competition.
"We will also have new signings coming into the squad who will also make the
squad stronger and it will be another great opportunity for us to challenge
for major silverware and a Champions League position."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE EXCLUSIVE: ENQUIRES GO IN FOR A NUMBER OF PLAYERS AND CLUB
FAVOURITES SET TO LEAVE! ALL TRANSFERS DISCUSSED HERE
22 MAY 2016
The West Ham Way.co.uk
So we are in Europe after all. I personally cannot wait and think that it
is a good thing for us for a number of reasons. Firstly European football
under the lights is a great way to welcome the new stadium. Secondly, for
years I have dreamt of European football to be a regular thing for us and
whilst it isn't the Champions League that we dreamt of it is a start.
Thirdly, it may attract players to the club. Most players want to play in
Europe even it is the Europa. Fourthly, arguably the most important reason
is that we may be able to keep some of our players happy. We are lucky to
have two brilliant goalkeepers; Randolph could play regularly in cup
competition. Youngsters like Burke, Oxford and Cullen can get more games
than they would without Europe and of course it is a chance to keep four
strikers scoring. The last reason for me is that it may give some fans a
chance to see the football at the Olympic stadium (Mahindra Stadium) who may
not get the chance. Our season ticket sales have been phenomenal but as a
consequence many have been left frustrated. This may mean some get the
chance to go who would usually miss out. For me Europe is definitely a good
thing.
So on to transfers and the start of what is to be a very busy window. We
have had a well-publicised bid for Lacazette rejected. This bid was
rejected. The bid did not break down because of payment structure, it was
rejected because they wanted more money for him. The problem we have is
that PSG have registered their interest and with Ibrahimovic (another one of
our targets) leaving they want a top forward. The chance to raid one of
their main rivals, for their best player has been appealing to them. PSG
have a number of targets as well as Lacazette but Lyon know they have a man
in demand and a man they can demand more for. To say the bid is "dead" is
too early at this stage. It is early May so until the player joins another
club, the bid cannot be said to be dead. The player has expressed his
keenness to join an English club so there is a chance. Lyon have apparently
named their price and we are looking to meet it again. Whether this will be
enough with PSG being around I am not sure but the player is the number one
target.
We have launched enquires for many players. Another "enquiry" that has got
a lot of media attention is the discussion with Bournemouth for Richie and
Wilson. As I said at the time we were "keen" on both players and spoke to
his agent who passed on our interest to the club and leaked to the press.
The discussions with the agent were not intended to become public and were
not meant to come out just before Bournemouth played their last game. This
was all triggered by his agent and then became a good excuse for the
Bournemouth manager when they lost against Manchester United. We "enquired"
as to their availability and we wouldn't have paid anywhere near the £25m
that the media reported.
As I broke in one of my previous columns we have also triggered Jamie
Vardy's £25m release clause. Whether we can persuade him to leave a spot
in the Champions League with the current Champions is a different matter but
we will offer a large wage to do so. We are apparently happy to double his
wages and take him up to a huge basic wage.
Another player who we have launched a bid for and one I expect is the most
likely to go through at this stage is Jonathan Calleri the Argentine who
attracted the attention of the club whilst playing alongside Carlos Tevez at
Boca Juniors. This deal will be more likely to be a loan move.
We have enquired about many forwards Batshuayi being the main one but he
seems most likely to move to Spurs. There are domestic players in Benteke,
the Ayew's and Bony as well as a number of forwards who have scored in other
countries such as Icardi and Embolo (someone we have monitored for a while
but have doubts over). Another player who we are interested in but hasn't
been that well reported is Martin Braithwaite but again this is just an
enquiry rather than him necessarily being a top target. There is some talk
that Gignac, who we have been interested in before, could also be someone we
move for. He is currently in Mexico and apparently not happy. No enquiry
for him has been made but depending on how the other transfers go this may
be revisited. Another name to watch out for that hasn't been mentioned in
any media circles is Benjamin Moukandjo, a Cameroon International striker at
Lorient in France.
As far as right backs go I reported all the targets in my last column.
These where Gregory van der Wiel, his PSG teammate Serge Aurier, Debuchy of
Arsenal, Rafael da Silva the ex-Manchester United right back and a couple of
other French right backs. Slav also has a couple from his Turkish days that
he is interested in too. We have made an offer to Gregory Van Der Wiel but
he has a number of offers but he is the top target there. If not the club
may look at Debuchy.
Wingers are also a priority again last week's column covered these. It has
been well reported elsewhere that we would like Tore of Super Slav's former
club. Yes he is on there but meeting with Bilic in Turkey didn't happen
this week. There are many other wing targets on the list too and watch out
for a former Premier League player who has had an outstanding season in
France for Nice. Hatem Ben Arfa is out of contract this Summer and is a
player the club would be interested in.
What we have to be assured in is that the chairman is working flat out to
land the best deals for the club. We have already brought in Nordvteit who
I had reported for months, so we already have one player in and we will sign
another 6-8 players I think so it is early days and no need to panic.
In terms of player departures a number of clubs are lining up make an offer
for Valencia. We will entertain offers for him and he is most likely to go
to China who will pay large wages for him. This is also the likely
destination of Alex Song too. Another player who we could let go is Obiang.
I mentioned this in tweets about two weeks ago but Italian and Spanish clubs
are interested in him and he has been frustrated at his lack of first team
opportunities. He likes the club but is considering his options. If we
land our forward targets there is a chance that Sakho will be allowed to
leave. Bilic has lost some faith in him and would be prepared to let him
go. Borussia Mönchengladbach has showed keen interest and there would also
be domestic interest and from the French league. David Sullivan is a big
fan of Sakho and has a lot of time for him so it will be interesting to see
what happens with him. I think it will depend on how many forwards we land.
It is true that we are considering selling James Tomkins. Long term Bilic
sees this first choice centre back partnership being Ogbonna and Reid. Both
players are at an age where they can continue for a number of years now.
James Collins provides excellent immediate back up and of course you have
the highly talented Reece Burke and Reece Oxford providing competition too.
Both these players are concerned about their first team opportunities.
Burke's contract is up next year and he is yet to sign. He is a huge West
Ham fan but he has his career to think of and there is already a lot of
interest in him. This week it has been well reported how Reece Oxford has
rejected an initial contract. His agent has caused the club a number of
issues recently but the club hope he will sign an initial £20k a week deal
to keep both Manchester clubs away from him. This means that another West
Ham supporter in Tomkins could be surplus to requirements. Both Crystal
Palace and Sunderland, with two of his ex-managers Pardew and Allardyce, are
front runners in moving for the player. We would be likely to accept a
£10-£12m bid. O'Brien, Moses, Emineke and Song will all leave too and this
will free up a lot of wages for players.
I was pleased to introduce the Olympic Insider to the site this week,
alongside the Boleyn Informer, myself and The Sullivan brothers we should
have the transfers pretty well covered on the new site. Please have a look
round at the new layout, it appears to be considered a positive step by all.
We have also had a number of exciting developments with the site and I have
three big meetings lined up. More will follow but it does mean there isn't
a media form that we won't have covered. Our next fanzine is now available
to buy for £3 for a paper copy and then we sell it electronically
afterwards. There will be many interesting features in there plus I answer
more questions about my account that I get asked regularly. Information
that you will not find elsewhere. Last edition we sold out very early so if
you wish to get your copy then please order here. The West Ham Way Fanzine
we are still looking for people to advertise on the site so that we can keep
expanding. We have a range of different prices and opportunities so please
get in touch.
Finally I would like to congratulate the youth team in getting to the final
in Hong Kong. There is a number of talented players in that squad and Mark
Philips has worked wonders with them too. I expect to see many of them have
great futures in the game.
The summer is expected to be a scorcher in temperature and I am sure it will
be a great one in transfers for us
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
YOUNG NIGERIAN SET TO JOIN HAMMERS?
22 MAY 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Nigeria U20 international Agor Chukwudi is attracting concrete interest from
the English Premier League, with West Ham tabling a bid of 200,000 euros for
the highly-rated starlet – Original article
The 17-year-old Chukwudi is from the stable of ASJ Academy, the same nursery
team where the Arsenal linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his
footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com.
"We are studying the offer and it is very likely we will accept it. We are
interested in the player's development and not the money that is being
offered."
To make up for the meager transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham,
ASJ Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them
ten percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Golden Eaglets at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netted against the United States in the group stage.
And if his name did not ring a bell , he made the back pages after scoring
the game-winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham facing Olympic Stadium issue after qualifying for Europa League
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 22/05/16 2:45pm
SSN
West Ham are facing a logistical headache after qualifying for next season's
UEFA Europa League. The Hammers' place in Europe was confirmed on Saturday
following Manchester United's 2-1 FA Cup final victory over Crystal Palace.
West Ham, who will play their football at the 60,000-seater Olympic Stadium
next season, will enter the competition in the third qualifying round, with
the first leg scheduled to take place on July 28 and the second leg a week
later on August 4. The timing of the first leg poses a slight issue for
West Ham as the Olympic Stadium will be used for the London Anniversary
Games on the weekend of July 22. It usually takes seven days to convert the
stadium from athletics mode to football mode and this may cause an issue for
West Ham if they are drawn to play the first leg at home.
If West Ham are indeed drawn to play the first leg at home, Sky Sports News
HQ understand that the club are likely to ask for the location of the legs
to be switched. But if they avoid being drawn at home in the first leg, the
return match a week later will be played at the Olympic Stadium and will be
West Ham's first game at their new home. The club, however, will continue
to mark the official opening of the Olympic Stadium with a marquee friendly
against Serie A champions Juventus on August 7.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's shiny new home at the Olympic Stadium may NOT be ready for the
start of their season
15:02, 22 MAY 2016 UPDATED 15:02, 22 MAY 2016
BY LIAM CORLESS
An athletics event in late July means West Ham may be unable to play the
home leg of their Europa League qualifier at the Olympic Stadium
The Mirror
West Ham might have to find an alternative venue to the Olympic Stadium for
the home leg of their Europa League play-off. The Hammers' place in Europe
next season was confirmed after Manchester United beat Crystal Palace to win
the FA Cup on Saturday. United's victory meant West Ham qualified for the
Europa League by virtue of their seventh-placed Premier League finish. A
spot in the competition is reserved for the winners of the FA Cup, but as
United had already qualified for Europe through their fifth-placed league
finish, the spot dropped down to West Ham. The third qualifying round
matches are set to take place on Thursday 28 July and Thursday 4 August.
If West Ham are drawn to play the second leg at home, there won't be an
issue, but if they are drawn to play the first leg at home, they will have
to explore alternative venues to the Olympic Stadium. That's because an
athletics event is scheduled to take place at the Olympic Stadium between
22-24 July, and it takes a week for the venue to be set up for football
purposes, which means it won't be ready in time. West Ham will discover the
course of action they need to take when the draw is made on Friday 15 July.
The club said farewell to the Boleyn Ground - their home since 2004 - with
an emotional win over Manchester United on May 10th.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
European schedule – Keep these dates free!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Keep these dates free in your diary! You never know, we could go all the
way!
Europa League Third qualifying round 15th July 2016 Draw date
First leg 28th July 20164 Second Leg 4th August 2016
Europa League Play-off round 5th August Draw date
First Leg 18th August 2016 Second Leg 25th August 2016
Europa League Group Stage 26th August 2016 Draw Date in Monaco
Euro trophyGroup Match 1 15th September 2016
Group Match 2 29th September 2016
Group Match 3 20th October 2016
Group Match 4 3rd November 2016
Group Match 5 24th November 2016
Group Match 6 8th December 2016
swedbank-Friends-arenaEuropa League Knock-Out Stage Last 32 12th December
Draw Date
First Leg 16th February 2017 Second leg 23rd February 2017
Europa League Knock-Out Stage Last 16 24th February Draw Date
First Leg 9th March 2017 Second leg 16th March 2017
stadiumEuropa League Quarter Finals 17th March Draw Date
First Leg 13th April 2017 Second leg 20th April 2017
Europa League Semi-Finals 21st April Draw Date
First Leg 4th May 2017 Second leg 11th May 2017
Europa League Final on 24th May 2017 at Friends Arena in Sweden
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Merson tips West Ham for Champions league
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has suggested that West Ham will qualify for
the Champions League by 2019.
West Ham will compete in the Europa League third qualifying round next
season after Manchester United won the FA Cup but at one point it looked
like the Hammers could have finished in the top four this season just gone.
West Ham reached a peak of third place during the season but spent a number
of weeks in fourth place. If it were not for some inconsistent referee
performances towards the end of the 2015-16 season the Irons could have
finished above Manchester City who finished the season just three points
above us in fourth place.
Merson says that West Ham who move to the former Olympic Stadium next season
will rub shoulders with Europe's elite in the coming years. Asked on Sky
Sports' Fantasy Football podcast whether West Ham would qualify for the
Champions League next year, Merson replied: "Within the next three years."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers bid for Nigerian midfield starlet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Allnigeriasoccer.com claims that West Ham has tabled a bid of £155,000 for
U20 international Chukwudi Agor.
The 17-year-old is from the ASJ Academy, the same team where the Arsenal
linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com. "We are studying the offer and it is
very likely we will accept it. We are interested in the player's development
and not the money that is being offered."
To make up for the small transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham, ASJ
Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them ten
percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Nigerian team at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netting against the United States in the group stage. He also
scored the winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, May 22
Daily WHUFC News - 22nd May 2016
Hammers qualify for UEFA Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have qualified for the 2016/17 UEFA Europa League third
qualifying round, bringing European football to their stunning new Stadium
on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Slaven Bilic's side will kick-off their continental challenge with a
first-leg tie on Thursday 28 July, with the return leg to be played on
Thursday 4 August. The draw to discover the opposition will be made on
Friday 15 July.
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold welcomed the Club's
qualification at the end of a record-breaking Barclays Premier League season
which saw the Hammers finish seventh with an all-time high 62 points
"A place in Europe is just reward for the highest points total achieved by
West Ham United in the Premier League, and a season full of excellent
performances," said the Joint-Chairmen. "We look forward to starting this
exciting new era for the Club as we mean to go on, by competing in Europe."
West Ham will formally open the Club's new 60,000-capacity Stratford Stadium
with an opening ceremony celebration marking the Betway Cup visit of Italian
champions Juventus on Sunday 7 August at 1pm. Tickets for this fixture are
on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members here.
The Joint Chairmen added: "We said farewell to the Boleyn Ground with a
thrilling match and a magnificent atmosphere under the lights. Our game
against Juventus remains the official opening of our iconic new Stadium but
a European qualification game will be the perfect preparation for that."
2016/17 UEFA Europa League draw and round dates:
UEFA Europa League third qualifying round draw: 15 July
UEFA Europa League third qualifying round dates: 28 July and 4 August
UEFA Europa League play-off round draw: 5 August
UEFA Europa League play-off round dates: 18 August and 25 August
UEFA Europa League group stage draw: 26 August
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Delighted Kemp signs new deal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that exciting prospect Dan Kemp
has signed a professional contract. The winger has impressed coaches and
teammates alike since joining West Ham from London rivals Chelsea earlier in
the campaign. Having put pen to paper on a three year deal that will see the
youngster turn professional, Kemp said: "It feels amazing to sign a long
term professional contract with such a great club. I'm really looking
forward to working hard and improving as much as possible. "There's been a
lot of hard work and sacrifices along the way but I'm fully aware of staying
focused for the challenges ahead. It's an extremely proud moment for me and
my family, I am always striving to make them proud and keep achieving more
and more."
Since arriving at Rush Green, Kemp has gone from strength to strength, first
impressing for U18s where he scored six times from eleven starts, while also
featuring six times for the Development Squad, scoring once in a 4-1 rout
away at Newcastle United. Kemp continued: "Being involved with the U21s on a
number of occasions has been a great experience and a high point was scoring
on my first competitive start for the U21s at St James Park Newcastle.
"After settling in when I first signed, I have been really pleased with my
form, progress and my goal tally this season. Regular appearances for the
U18s was my aim for this season and I managed to do that. "It's flattering
to be offered such a great long term contract at a young age. It is my
intention to pay back the trust and belief placed in me by working hard, and
hopefully one day becoming a West Ham United first team player."
Now, having committed his future to the Hammers, the 16-year-old is looking
ahead to what could be a very bright future for both himself and the club.
He explained: "The club is moving forward very quickly and I am sure there
will be some very exciting times ahead. It a great time to be a West Ham
United player. "I'm really looking forward to a good pre-season and to
progress through the ranks towards the first team. "Obviously a first team
debut is one of my short term goals, it would be incredible to make my
Premier League debut at the new stadium. I set my goals high for myself but
know that I need to work extremely hard to get there and I will do
everything I possibly can to get to where I want to be."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New contract for delighted Neufville
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that highly regarded left-back
Vashon Neufville has signed a three-year contract with the Club. The England
youth international is one of the most talented players to come through the
Academy of Football in recent years. Speaking after signing his new
contract, the 16-year-old said: "I'm very happy to have the pleasure in
signing my first professional contract with West Ham. "I've been working
hard towards this so yes it's a proud moment and hopeful there's many more
to come! "I found out a little while ago and I just couldn't wait to sign
it."
In a widely successful year for the Academy which saw several players make
their first team debuts, before winning the U21 Premier League Cup,
Neufville has similarly enjoyed a breakthrough campaign. Already an U18
regular, making 14 appearances, he made the step up to the Development Squad
in the second half of the season where he impressed during eight starts. He
reflected: "I think it's been a good season for me. Some of my highlights
include playing for England in the Euro qualifiers as well as being a part
of the U21 cup games."
Having enjoyed a successful past 12 months, Neufville is equally as positive
about his future with the club. He continued: "It's a great time to be
involved with West Ham. Leaving the Boleyn Ground and going to the new
stadium is really something to look forward too. "Hopefully I can make my
debut at the new stadium as soon as possible."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Young Hammers progress to quarter-finals
WHUFC.com
A young West Ham side enjoyed a terrific first day at the Hong Kong Sevens
tournament this weekend as they topped their group to reach the semi-finals.
After a goalless draw with Singapore Cricket Club in their opener, the
Hammers took the lead in their next tie against HKFA U21s, but were pegged
back when the local side bagged a penalty. There was victory for those in
Claret and Blue in their final Group D match however, as they came up
against fellow English side Leicester City and were 2-0 winners. Taking time
to settle as a seven-a-side outfit, West Ham drew a blank in their first
encounter, and Lewis Page reflected: "It's tough because we're not used to
this. We had a few chances and we should have put them away, but we kept the
ball well. "We've just got to take our chances in the next two games and go
for it."
The young Hammers were keen to find the back of the net for the first time
in this year's competition in their next fixture though, and took the lead
against HKFA U21s when Alex Pike converted a penalty. However, the full-back
also missed from the spot and their opponents notched from 18-yards
themselves when Yu Pui Hong levelled the game. It finished 1-1, and West
Ham's Noha Sylvestre said: "In the game, I think the best player out there
was Grady Diangana for West Ham. We have to take our chances, be more
clinical and score goals."
It was therefore clear what the Hammers' objective would be in the final
group match against Leicester City, and their persistence duly paid off as
they were 2-0 winners. Pike was again on the scoresheet as he burst through
the Fox's lines to storm into the penalty area and finish calmly with his
weaker foot, giving the Londoners the initiative.
And Diangana, reproducing his form from the last fixture, put the result
beyond doubt as he cut inside onto his left foot before slotting past the
keeper. The result meant West Ham topped Group D, and head into the
quarter-finals on Sunday where they will play Eastern just before 11:30am
Hong Kong time. To stay updated on the Hammers' progress in the tournament,
follow our Twitter account @whufc_official and look out for a day round-up
on our official website.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers Qualify For Europe
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st May 2016
By: Staff Writer No.3
United are looking at a second consecutive season in the Europa League. The
Irons will enter the competition at the third qualifying round stage with
ties to be played on 28 July and 4 August 2016. Should the team progress
past that stage they would have to negotiate a play-off round on 18 & 25
August before progressing through to the group stage of the competition. In
other news, 10 man Manchester United won the FA Cup, coming from behind to
beat Crystal Palace 2-1 in today's Wembley final.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in Europe, Payet scoops award
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Dimitri Payet's wonder free kick against Manchester United in the quarter
finals of the FA Cup at Old Trafford has been named as the FA Cup Goal of
the Season.
Payet's stunning 35-yard free kick - which was also voted by KUMB readers as
their runner-up Goal of the Season - beat off the challenge of seven other
sublime finishes to win the award, as voted for by BBC viewers throughout
the day.
There was further good news for the Hammers today following Manchester
United's 2-1 extra time Wembley win, for it guaranteed the club passage into
the third qualifying round of the Europa League.
That's the same stage at which West Ham were knocked out by Romanian
champions Astra Guirgiu last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers trailing in key US market
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United may be about to move into the Olympic Stadium - but they
still trail most Premier League clubs in the key US market.
A table, released yesterday revealed how West Ham were only the 16th
most-watched Premier League team on the NBC Network in the United States
last season.
The Hammers - whose matches were broadcast live by NBC on 22 occasions -
scored an average of just 353,045 viewers per game across the country, which
has a population of 319 million people.
That was higher than just four other BPL teams - namely Newcastle Utd
(350k), Norwich City (319k), Sunderland (304k) and Crystal Palace (278k).
The top four clubs - Manchester Utd (588k), Manchester City (562k), Chelsea
(510k) and Arsenal (493k) - were all shown live on 32 or more occasions from
a total of 231 live matches broadcast, or 61 per cent of all Premier League
fixtures.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham qualify for Europa League after Man Utd FA Cup win
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 21/05/16 8:46pm
SSN
West Ham have qualified for next season's UEFA Europa League as a result of
Manchester United's FA Cup triumph. United, who had already qualified for
the Europa League by finishing fifth in the Premier League, defeated Crystal
Palace 2-1 at Wembley to win the FA Cup for a record-equalling 12th time.
The Europa League place on offer to the FA Cup winners has been passed down
to the Hammers, who ended the season in seventh place.
West Ham will enter the competition in the third qualifying round, with the
first leg scheduled to take place on July 28 and the second leg a week later
on August 4. Slaven Bilic's side join United and Southampton as England's
representatives in next season's Europa League. Southampton, who finished
the season in sixth place, will enter the competition at the group stage
along with United. West Ham had missed out on securing European
qualification via the Premier League on the final day of the season, losing
2-1 away at Stoke.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man United want £10million West Ham kid Reece Oxford but managerial
uncertainty could scupper bid
22:30, 21 MAY 2016
BY SIMON MULLOCK
United have spent the last month putting together a £10million bid for the
17-year-old defender but might not get him
The Mirror
Manchester United risk missing out on West Ham whizz-kid Reece Oxford
because of the uncertainty over who will be manager at Old Trafford next
season. United have spent the last month putting together a £10million bid
for the brilliant 17-year-old defender. They were expected to make their
move for Oxford as soon as the Premier League season finished, but official
contact with the Hammers has yet to be made. Sunday Mirror Sport understands
that an impasse has developed in recent days as United's executive
vice-chairman Ed Woodward and the American owners agonise over the future of
beleaguered boss Louis van Gaal. Woodward's resolve to allow the Dutchman to
work the final year of his contract next season is being severely tested by
United's failure to qualify for the Champions League. And signing off on new
players has been put on hold. But that has left Oxford in limbo – and West
Ham are now cranking up the pressure on him to sign a new contract to stay
in London. Oxford wants his future sorted before he reports for England
Under-19 duty next week. The Young Lions are travelling to South America for
a double header against Mexico as they step up their preparations for next
month's Euros in Germany. Oxford would welcome the chance to work with Van
Gaal because of the Dutchman's willingness to put his trust in young
players. The Edmonton-born centre-back – who because the youngest player in
West Ham's history when he made his debut against FC Lusitanos last July –
would have a difficult decision to make if United replace Van Gaal with Jose
Mourinho because of the Portuguese's reluctance to give young players a
chance. Oxford believes he is good enough to be a regular Premier League
starter.
Manchester City are also interested – and would match West Ham's asking
price. But City already have Vincent Kompany, Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim
Mangala and will welcome back Jason Denayer from a loan spell with
Galatasaray. That has opened the door for United, but time is running out.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive: DS on European qualification
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan is overjoyed the club has returned to Europe. The co chairman
and chief shareholder – speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh this morning
(Sun) – described Europa Cup qualification as "fantastic." David has been
consistent in his belief that all things were possible last season and next
including European football and the arrival in the competition truly is the
icing on the cake of a great season. He said: "I think its fantastic to have
European football two years in a row. We enter at the same round we went out
in last year. "Let's hope we go a lot further this year. It's such a pity we
didn't beat Stoke as we'd have been in the 'league' stage already, two
rounds further than where we enter.
"I think its 19 games up to and including the final from where we are
entering !" Now that's what we call serious optimism – Come on You Irons
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG makes a Europa League pledge
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has promised the funds will be made available to compete well in
Europe. The co chairman – delighted that Manchester United provided a route
into the Europa League for the Irons – declared: "We will build a squad to
cope with the Premier League and Europe. "We will find the money to ensure
that we have a squad deep enough to cope on all levels. These are great days
for the club and we are looking forward to Europe with great expectation. "I
know there will be some who say we haven't the strength in depth but we will
do what's required to deepen the squad "We also have some very good young
players who may well be used in the early stages and we will do what's
required to help the manager with his requirements. We are grateful to
Manchester United for doing us a favour by winning the FA Cup Final – now
everything is back in our hands."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia returns to Ecuador
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 21, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Enner Valencia has returned to Ecuador. He was pictured in the building of
the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) working hard in the gym on his
physical fitness in preparation for Copa America Cup. Valencia will
represent Ecuador as they face Brazil on June 4th, Peru on June 8th and
Haiti on 12th June. Enner Valencia says he is pleased to return to Ecuador,
after an intense season in the Premier League with West Ham. Ecuador told
the media "the physical part is fine, it's true that I lost some pace in the
team, but I feel very good."
On his preparations for Copa America cup, the Hammers striker said: "We do
not want to be left behind, we want to join those who have won the cup, we
need to believe that we can achieve, we had a good start in the qualifiers
and that motivates us, "
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons may face fixture reshuffle
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham face a possible re-scheduling of early season following last
night's entry into Europe. And the first change may be the date of the
prestige friendly against Juventus – the curtain raiser to life in our new
home. David Gold admitted to Claret and Hugh last night that although the
club hadn't had had time to look closely at the situation "certain
readjustments may have to be made." With the whole club excited at the
prospect of watching us take off on a European schedule he declared: "There
may be one or two little issues as far as fixtures are concerned but none of
them will prove insurmountable. "We will be taking a look at things over the
next few days and make whatever arrangements need to be made."
And this morning he responded to an absurd tweet which read: "Juventus is
now not the 1st game as advertised, Lots will send their tickets back, me
included." The co chairman said: "We made clear that the date for the
opening fixture might change dependent on our qualification for Europe. dg"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have qualified for the 2016/17 UEFA Europa League third
qualifying round, bringing European football to their stunning new Stadium
on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Slaven Bilic's side will kick-off their continental challenge with a
first-leg tie on Thursday 28 July, with the return leg to be played on
Thursday 4 August. The draw to discover the opposition will be made on
Friday 15 July.
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold welcomed the Club's
qualification at the end of a record-breaking Barclays Premier League season
which saw the Hammers finish seventh with an all-time high 62 points
"A place in Europe is just reward for the highest points total achieved by
West Ham United in the Premier League, and a season full of excellent
performances," said the Joint-Chairmen. "We look forward to starting this
exciting new era for the Club as we mean to go on, by competing in Europe."
West Ham will formally open the Club's new 60,000-capacity Stratford Stadium
with an opening ceremony celebration marking the Betway Cup visit of Italian
champions Juventus on Sunday 7 August at 1pm. Tickets for this fixture are
on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members here.
The Joint Chairmen added: "We said farewell to the Boleyn Ground with a
thrilling match and a magnificent atmosphere under the lights. Our game
against Juventus remains the official opening of our iconic new Stadium but
a European qualification game will be the perfect preparation for that."
2016/17 UEFA Europa League draw and round dates:
UEFA Europa League third qualifying round draw: 15 July
UEFA Europa League third qualifying round dates: 28 July and 4 August
UEFA Europa League play-off round draw: 5 August
UEFA Europa League play-off round dates: 18 August and 25 August
UEFA Europa League group stage draw: 26 August
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Delighted Kemp signs new deal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that exciting prospect Dan Kemp
has signed a professional contract. The winger has impressed coaches and
teammates alike since joining West Ham from London rivals Chelsea earlier in
the campaign. Having put pen to paper on a three year deal that will see the
youngster turn professional, Kemp said: "It feels amazing to sign a long
term professional contract with such a great club. I'm really looking
forward to working hard and improving as much as possible. "There's been a
lot of hard work and sacrifices along the way but I'm fully aware of staying
focused for the challenges ahead. It's an extremely proud moment for me and
my family, I am always striving to make them proud and keep achieving more
and more."
Since arriving at Rush Green, Kemp has gone from strength to strength, first
impressing for U18s where he scored six times from eleven starts, while also
featuring six times for the Development Squad, scoring once in a 4-1 rout
away at Newcastle United. Kemp continued: "Being involved with the U21s on a
number of occasions has been a great experience and a high point was scoring
on my first competitive start for the U21s at St James Park Newcastle.
"After settling in when I first signed, I have been really pleased with my
form, progress and my goal tally this season. Regular appearances for the
U18s was my aim for this season and I managed to do that. "It's flattering
to be offered such a great long term contract at a young age. It is my
intention to pay back the trust and belief placed in me by working hard, and
hopefully one day becoming a West Ham United first team player."
Now, having committed his future to the Hammers, the 16-year-old is looking
ahead to what could be a very bright future for both himself and the club.
He explained: "The club is moving forward very quickly and I am sure there
will be some very exciting times ahead. It a great time to be a West Ham
United player. "I'm really looking forward to a good pre-season and to
progress through the ranks towards the first team. "Obviously a first team
debut is one of my short term goals, it would be incredible to make my
Premier League debut at the new stadium. I set my goals high for myself but
know that I need to work extremely hard to get there and I will do
everything I possibly can to get to where I want to be."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New contract for delighted Neufville
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that highly regarded left-back
Vashon Neufville has signed a three-year contract with the Club. The England
youth international is one of the most talented players to come through the
Academy of Football in recent years. Speaking after signing his new
contract, the 16-year-old said: "I'm very happy to have the pleasure in
signing my first professional contract with West Ham. "I've been working
hard towards this so yes it's a proud moment and hopeful there's many more
to come! "I found out a little while ago and I just couldn't wait to sign
it."
In a widely successful year for the Academy which saw several players make
their first team debuts, before winning the U21 Premier League Cup,
Neufville has similarly enjoyed a breakthrough campaign. Already an U18
regular, making 14 appearances, he made the step up to the Development Squad
in the second half of the season where he impressed during eight starts. He
reflected: "I think it's been a good season for me. Some of my highlights
include playing for England in the Euro qualifiers as well as being a part
of the U21 cup games."
Having enjoyed a successful past 12 months, Neufville is equally as positive
about his future with the club. He continued: "It's a great time to be
involved with West Ham. Leaving the Boleyn Ground and going to the new
stadium is really something to look forward too. "Hopefully I can make my
debut at the new stadium as soon as possible."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Young Hammers progress to quarter-finals
WHUFC.com
A young West Ham side enjoyed a terrific first day at the Hong Kong Sevens
tournament this weekend as they topped their group to reach the semi-finals.
After a goalless draw with Singapore Cricket Club in their opener, the
Hammers took the lead in their next tie against HKFA U21s, but were pegged
back when the local side bagged a penalty. There was victory for those in
Claret and Blue in their final Group D match however, as they came up
against fellow English side Leicester City and were 2-0 winners. Taking time
to settle as a seven-a-side outfit, West Ham drew a blank in their first
encounter, and Lewis Page reflected: "It's tough because we're not used to
this. We had a few chances and we should have put them away, but we kept the
ball well. "We've just got to take our chances in the next two games and go
for it."
The young Hammers were keen to find the back of the net for the first time
in this year's competition in their next fixture though, and took the lead
against HKFA U21s when Alex Pike converted a penalty. However, the full-back
also missed from the spot and their opponents notched from 18-yards
themselves when Yu Pui Hong levelled the game. It finished 1-1, and West
Ham's Noha Sylvestre said: "In the game, I think the best player out there
was Grady Diangana for West Ham. We have to take our chances, be more
clinical and score goals."
It was therefore clear what the Hammers' objective would be in the final
group match against Leicester City, and their persistence duly paid off as
they were 2-0 winners. Pike was again on the scoresheet as he burst through
the Fox's lines to storm into the penalty area and finish calmly with his
weaker foot, giving the Londoners the initiative.
And Diangana, reproducing his form from the last fixture, put the result
beyond doubt as he cut inside onto his left foot before slotting past the
keeper. The result meant West Ham topped Group D, and head into the
quarter-finals on Sunday where they will play Eastern just before 11:30am
Hong Kong time. To stay updated on the Hammers' progress in the tournament,
follow our Twitter account @whufc_official and look out for a day round-up
on our official website.
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Hammers Qualify For Europe
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st May 2016
By: Staff Writer No.3
United are looking at a second consecutive season in the Europa League. The
Irons will enter the competition at the third qualifying round stage with
ties to be played on 28 July and 4 August 2016. Should the team progress
past that stage they would have to negotiate a play-off round on 18 & 25
August before progressing through to the group stage of the competition. In
other news, 10 man Manchester United won the FA Cup, coming from behind to
beat Crystal Palace 2-1 in today's Wembley final.
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West Ham in Europe, Payet scoops award
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Dimitri Payet's wonder free kick against Manchester United in the quarter
finals of the FA Cup at Old Trafford has been named as the FA Cup Goal of
the Season.
Payet's stunning 35-yard free kick - which was also voted by KUMB readers as
their runner-up Goal of the Season - beat off the challenge of seven other
sublime finishes to win the award, as voted for by BBC viewers throughout
the day.
There was further good news for the Hammers today following Manchester
United's 2-1 extra time Wembley win, for it guaranteed the club passage into
the third qualifying round of the Europa League.
That's the same stage at which West Ham were knocked out by Romanian
champions Astra Guirgiu last season.
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Hammers trailing in key US market
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United may be about to move into the Olympic Stadium - but they
still trail most Premier League clubs in the key US market.
A table, released yesterday revealed how West Ham were only the 16th
most-watched Premier League team on the NBC Network in the United States
last season.
The Hammers - whose matches were broadcast live by NBC on 22 occasions -
scored an average of just 353,045 viewers per game across the country, which
has a population of 319 million people.
That was higher than just four other BPL teams - namely Newcastle Utd
(350k), Norwich City (319k), Sunderland (304k) and Crystal Palace (278k).
The top four clubs - Manchester Utd (588k), Manchester City (562k), Chelsea
(510k) and Arsenal (493k) - were all shown live on 32 or more occasions from
a total of 231 live matches broadcast, or 61 per cent of all Premier League
fixtures.
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West Ham qualify for Europa League after Man Utd FA Cup win
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 21/05/16 8:46pm
SSN
West Ham have qualified for next season's UEFA Europa League as a result of
Manchester United's FA Cup triumph. United, who had already qualified for
the Europa League by finishing fifth in the Premier League, defeated Crystal
Palace 2-1 at Wembley to win the FA Cup for a record-equalling 12th time.
The Europa League place on offer to the FA Cup winners has been passed down
to the Hammers, who ended the season in seventh place.
West Ham will enter the competition in the third qualifying round, with the
first leg scheduled to take place on July 28 and the second leg a week later
on August 4. Slaven Bilic's side join United and Southampton as England's
representatives in next season's Europa League. Southampton, who finished
the season in sixth place, will enter the competition at the group stage
along with United. West Ham had missed out on securing European
qualification via the Premier League on the final day of the season, losing
2-1 away at Stoke.
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Man United want £10million West Ham kid Reece Oxford but managerial
uncertainty could scupper bid
22:30, 21 MAY 2016
BY SIMON MULLOCK
United have spent the last month putting together a £10million bid for the
17-year-old defender but might not get him
The Mirror
Manchester United risk missing out on West Ham whizz-kid Reece Oxford
because of the uncertainty over who will be manager at Old Trafford next
season. United have spent the last month putting together a £10million bid
for the brilliant 17-year-old defender. They were expected to make their
move for Oxford as soon as the Premier League season finished, but official
contact with the Hammers has yet to be made. Sunday Mirror Sport understands
that an impasse has developed in recent days as United's executive
vice-chairman Ed Woodward and the American owners agonise over the future of
beleaguered boss Louis van Gaal. Woodward's resolve to allow the Dutchman to
work the final year of his contract next season is being severely tested by
United's failure to qualify for the Champions League. And signing off on new
players has been put on hold. But that has left Oxford in limbo – and West
Ham are now cranking up the pressure on him to sign a new contract to stay
in London. Oxford wants his future sorted before he reports for England
Under-19 duty next week. The Young Lions are travelling to South America for
a double header against Mexico as they step up their preparations for next
month's Euros in Germany. Oxford would welcome the chance to work with Van
Gaal because of the Dutchman's willingness to put his trust in young
players. The Edmonton-born centre-back – who because the youngest player in
West Ham's history when he made his debut against FC Lusitanos last July –
would have a difficult decision to make if United replace Van Gaal with Jose
Mourinho because of the Portuguese's reluctance to give young players a
chance. Oxford believes he is good enough to be a regular Premier League
starter.
Manchester City are also interested – and would match West Ham's asking
price. But City already have Vincent Kompany, Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim
Mangala and will welcome back Jason Denayer from a loan spell with
Galatasaray. That has opened the door for United, but time is running out.
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Exclusive: DS on European qualification
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan is overjoyed the club has returned to Europe. The co chairman
and chief shareholder – speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh this morning
(Sun) – described Europa Cup qualification as "fantastic." David has been
consistent in his belief that all things were possible last season and next
including European football and the arrival in the competition truly is the
icing on the cake of a great season. He said: "I think its fantastic to have
European football two years in a row. We enter at the same round we went out
in last year. "Let's hope we go a lot further this year. It's such a pity we
didn't beat Stoke as we'd have been in the 'league' stage already, two
rounds further than where we enter.
"I think its 19 games up to and including the final from where we are
entering !" Now that's what we call serious optimism – Come on You Irons
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DG makes a Europa League pledge
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has promised the funds will be made available to compete well in
Europe. The co chairman – delighted that Manchester United provided a route
into the Europa League for the Irons – declared: "We will build a squad to
cope with the Premier League and Europe. "We will find the money to ensure
that we have a squad deep enough to cope on all levels. These are great days
for the club and we are looking forward to Europe with great expectation. "I
know there will be some who say we haven't the strength in depth but we will
do what's required to deepen the squad "We also have some very good young
players who may well be used in the early stages and we will do what's
required to help the manager with his requirements. We are grateful to
Manchester United for doing us a favour by winning the FA Cup Final – now
everything is back in our hands."
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Valencia returns to Ecuador
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 21, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Enner Valencia has returned to Ecuador. He was pictured in the building of
the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) working hard in the gym on his
physical fitness in preparation for Copa America Cup. Valencia will
represent Ecuador as they face Brazil on June 4th, Peru on June 8th and
Haiti on 12th June. Enner Valencia says he is pleased to return to Ecuador,
after an intense season in the Premier League with West Ham. Ecuador told
the media "the physical part is fine, it's true that I lost some pace in the
team, but I feel very good."
On his preparations for Copa America cup, the Hammers striker said: "We do
not want to be left behind, we want to join those who have won the cup, we
need to believe that we can achieve, we had a good start in the qualifiers
and that motivates us, "
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Irons may face fixture reshuffle
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham face a possible re-scheduling of early season following last
night's entry into Europe. And the first change may be the date of the
prestige friendly against Juventus – the curtain raiser to life in our new
home. David Gold admitted to Claret and Hugh last night that although the
club hadn't had had time to look closely at the situation "certain
readjustments may have to be made." With the whole club excited at the
prospect of watching us take off on a European schedule he declared: "There
may be one or two little issues as far as fixtures are concerned but none of
them will prove insurmountable. "We will be taking a look at things over the
next few days and make whatever arrangements need to be made."
And this morning he responded to an absurd tweet which read: "Juventus is
now not the 1st game as advertised, Lots will send their tickets back, me
included." The co chairman said: "We made clear that the date for the
opening fixture might change dependent on our qualification for Europe. dg"
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st May 2016
Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Hello everybody,
It's been a great season for us, obviously. All the years I've been here,
we've always been looking over our shoulder, if you like, but this time
around it was nice to be looking at how high we could finish. It's
unfortunate we lost the last game, but seventh in the Premier League is not
too bad. Wherever you finish and whatever you do, you always think you could
have finished higher in the table, but I think if you'd been told before the
season that we'd finish seventh, we'd have taken it. It was disappointing to
finish the season how we did, but it's something to build on next year.
Personally, it was a little bit frustrating not to play a bigger part in the
final few games. I wanted to get back in and play and thought I might have
had a chance, but that's football and I'm old enough to realise that the
boys in the team had been doing well. Overall, I think it was my best season
for West Ham, and certainly the season in which I've had the least amount of
injuries, which was good at my age.
Now, I'll go away with Wales and hopefully my mid-season form for West Ham
might see me get a starting spot. I can't wait for the European Championship
finals. I had a chat with Mark Hughes at Stoke and for all us Welsh lads,
it's a new experience that he and so many other great Wales players never
had, for one reason or another. We're going into it blind, because none of
us really know what to expect, but we're full of excitement. We've got three
games to play and we'll be looking to qualify out of our group, and I think
we've got every chance. We meet up in Cardiff on Monday and have a week in
the sun in Portugal, then we get our heads on it for a friendly against
Sweden and then straight to France for the tournament. We have got Slovakia
first and I think that's a must-win for us. We need to go there and get
three points there to kick us off nicely. I think a win and a draw will see
us through, so that's what we're looking to do and we're confident we can.
I've had a little bit of ribbing from the English lads about the England
game, but it's more requests for tickets – they're going through the roof!
We've got Slovakia to look forward to first, then a massive game with
England. It's a huge game if we play England in a friendly, but to be
playing them in a major tournament is even bigger, but everyone's looking
forward to it.
Enjoy the Euros!
Ginge
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Winger Powell turns pro at beloved Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that pacey winger Joe Powell has
signed a new three year contract with the Club. The seventeen-year-old, an
avid Hammer himself, proved to play a crucial part of the U18s successful
season as they qualified for the top group of the play offs. Having pledged
his future to his beloved Hammers, a delighted Powell said: "It's a great
feeling to sign the big contract that you always dreamt about as a kid and
it's a bonus for me as it's for the club I love. "A lot of hard work has
gone into this moment, the older you get, the harder and the more serious it
gets and you have to compete with other players for your place. Of course,
my family are very proud of me, especially as they are all big West Ham
supporters! "When I first found out, I was over the moon and the support and
praise from everyone was amazing."
This term, despite suffering injury which limited his game time, the
attacker, a set-play specialist, made 15 appearances for the U18s, as well
as featuring for the Development Squad. He reflected: "This season has had
its highs and lows. I had a good few games with the U18s, and then got
called over to Chadwell to train with the first team. "I trained really well
over there and then made an appearance for the U21s against Brighton.
Unfortunately later that week had a scan on my back and got told I would be
out for the next three months which was gutting. But now I believe I've come
back to the game as a more intelligent, stronger player."
Having achieved one of his boyhood dreams, Powell is well aware that the
hard work is only just beginning, yet he is looking forward to the
challenge. And with the club's imminent move to the new stadium just around
the corner, what better time to continue his development at the club he
loves? He finished by saying: "It's a fantastic year for me to be signing as
we move into the new stadium which is very exciting. From the first team
down, the club has done very well this year and I'm very privileged to be a
part of that. "I'm really looking forward to exploiting the opportunity my
new contract has given me and I'm hoping to make my way into the first team
within the year or two. It would be an absolute pleasure to make my debut at
the new stadium and hopefully establish my position in the first team
squad."
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From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
This has been a fantastic season for West Ham United and we will always
remember the final ever game at the Boleyn Ground. Whenever we beat
Manchester United it always memorable, but to do it in our final home game
and the emotions that surrounded the whole night makes it even more special.
It will live long in the memory for years to come. Unfortunately we could
not follow it up with another victory on the final day against Stoke and we
snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. How on earth did we not come away
with anything when we dominated the game and had so many chances? We had the
ball kicked off the line and Diafra Sakho had a great chance to make it 2-0
when he only had the keeper to beat and it turned out to be one of those
days. I was driving home disappointed and I could not get my head around how
we lost the game. We are now relying on Manchester United to do us a big
favour in the FA Cup Final on Saturday and we will become United fans for
the day. We all want to finish the season going into Europe and we will
better equipped going into the tournament if we can qualify for the Europa
League again.
The players who had the experience performing in the early rounds at the
start of the season will be a year older and more experienced. We will also
have new players coming in and we will have a much stronger squad. We have
already made our first signing of the summer with the arrival of Havard
Nordtveit. I am sure our supporters will say we have a very special player
when they see him play. I have watched games of him in action and he is a
very good player. I know the fans will take to him and he is just the first
of our new signings. We can trust Slaven and David Sullivan to get the best
transfers for the football club and they have negotiated great deals. We
will also look at the possibility of doing some loan deals and they have
proved to be great moves for the football club. You only have to look at
Manuel Lanzini who arrived last summer and we didn't know how he would
adjust. A year later he has been a fantastic signing for the Club. Some of
our players are now joining up with their countries ahead of the European
Championship Finals and I wish all of them the best of luck. I hope they all
enjoy a successful tournament and come back to West Ham at the start of the
season brimming with confidence.
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Bidding in the West Ham auction? Check the small print!
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Supporters currently bidding for items in West Ham United FC's auction are
being warned to check the small print in the terms and conditions provided
by the club.
With offers already reaching crazy levels for even the most basic of items,
bidders should be awar that each item is subject to fees that will raise
tohe toal price of each item by around 40 PER CENT.
The auctions T&C, which may be found here, state that TWO premiums will be
added to each sale price. "All lots are subject to buyer's premium and VAT,"
it states.
"The buyer's premium is 16 per cent and this will be added to the winning
bid price. VAT at 20 per cent will also be added to the winning bid price
and the buyer's premium."
By way of an example, the current highest bid for the toilet sign above is
£275. Adding VAT at 20 per cent (£55) raises the price to £330.
Meanwhile the buyer's premium equates to £44, which with VAT (£8.80) becomes
£52.80. By our reckoning, the final sale price for a £275 item is therefore
actually £382.80 - a vast difference from the listed price.
* Thanks to KUMB member erifles for spotting this one.
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Veli happy where I am, says Besiktas star
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Besiktas midfielder Veli Kavlak has scotched reports suggesting that he is
on the verge of joining West Ham United. Turkish media suggested earlier
this week that the Austrian international, who has been with his current
club since moving from Rapid Wien in 2011 was on his way to London in order
to join the Hammers. However the 27-year-old - who is also reported to have
been interesting fellow Premier League side Everton - has revealed that as
things stand, he intends to stay with the Black Eagles. "I want to win the
league again with Besiktas next season," Kavlak - who signed an extended
four-year contract in January 2015 - told Fotospor. "We have not discussed
severing ties."
The West Ham link is believed to have emerged after Kavlak recently
expressed his admiration for former boss Slaven Bilic, who was in charge at
Besiktas between 2013 and 2015 - although he was first linked with a move to
London last summer. Speaking previously, the Vienna-born midfielder said:
"He [Bilic] was like a father for me. He always supported me and gave me
freedom to express myself."
Despite the links with Kavlak, Bilic's number one target from his previous
club is winger Gokham Tore. The current Hammers boss signed Tore from
Russian side Rubin Kazan in 2013.
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Lacazette one for the future, says France boss
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Didier Deschamps says that West Ham's top transfer target Alexandre
Lacazette could be a French international for years to come - despite hvaing
been left out of the squad for Euro 16.
Deschamp, who has placed the Lyon striker on a seven-man reserve list
admitted that Lacazette - who was the target of a £25million bid from West
Ham earlier this week - could have made the squad had his form been more
consistent for his club side during the 2015/16 season. And he also
expressed the view that the goalscorer would be a success wherever he chose
to play - be that Ligue 1, the Premier League or even La Liga. "Alexander
was much better in the second half of the season and more efficient," said
Deschamp. "He was at home, in Lyon, at a club he knows by heart. "Should he
stay, or should he go? It's up to him to make the right decision. And before
he decided, [Lyon] President Jean-Michel Aulas must also agree to let him
go. "But Alex has all the qualities to play in any of Europe's top
leagues." Lacazette, who hasn't featured for Deschamps and the French
national team since last October scored 23 goals for Lyon in Ligue 1 last
season - with 11 coming in his last ten outings
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Mendy? That'd be Nice
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
German website Liga Insider reports that West Ham are one of a number of
clubs to have expressed an interest in Nice midfielder Nampalys Mendy. The
23-year-old defensive midfielder, who has been compared to former French
legend Claude Makelele joined Les Aiglons in 2013 but is thought to be set
for a move this summer, with several Premier League clubs said to be
monitoring his situation. In addition to West Ham, champions Leicester City,
Sam Allardyce's Sunderland and Southampton have both been cited as potential
destinations for Mendy, who is eligible to play for France having been born
in La Seyne-sur-Mer despite having Senegalese parents, as has Bundesliga
side Wolfsburg. Despite not having featured for Didier Deschamps' France
yet, Mendy has appeared at all levels from Under 18 to Under 21 for his
country.
* In other transfer news, West Ham are reported to have made a move for
Argentinian striker, Jonathan Calleri. The goalscorer is currently on loan
with Brazilian side Sao Paulo but negotiations are said to be at an advanced
stage.
* Juventus Roberto Pereyra is like to be leaving the Old Lady this summer
and West Ham are said to have expressed an interest in taking the player,
according to Talksport. The Argentine midfielder, who is rated around the
£9million mark made 16 appearances for the Serie A champions.
* Reports emanating from France suggest that Slaven Bilic is poised to
launch a bid for Arsenal's reserve right back Mathieu Debuchy. The
30-year-old made 17 appearances last season for the Gunners and Bordeaux,
with whom he spent the latter half of the 2015/16 campaign.
* West Ham's interest in Gregory van der Wiel has intensified after PSG
revealed that the Diutch international would be allowed to leave on a free
transfer after four years at the club. Manchester United are also rumoured
to be interested in taking the right back on a free.
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Vardy seeking six-figure wage
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Jamie Vardy is understood to have told potential suitors that they will need
to pay him in excess of £100,000-per-week in order to lure him from
Leicester. Vardy, who our resident ITK 'Jinxed' exclusively revealed via the
KUMB Forum earlier this month was a serious transfer target for the Hammers,
recently extended his contract with the Foxes. However the England
international, who is expected to lead the line for the Three Lions in
France at this summer's Euro 16 tournament could yet still leave the King
Power stadium - if the right offer is made.
Now 29, Vardy is also seeking a deal lasting at least four years, as he
seeks to capitalise on a fantastic season in which he has been crowned a
Premier League winner and established England international.
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Benteke hots up as Irons cool off
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Christian Benteke has again raised the issue of his future with West Ham
reportedly a target. The Belgian is known to have been unhappy with his
Liverpool season but has now widened his issue to claim that not only he but
others will be on their way to Jurgen Klopp's office for talks this summer.
H's reported this morning as saying he and others want to see the manager's
plans for next season and that the others too want to know what's going to
happen." He said: "I signed for five years – not one – but now I needs to
see the manager and discuss his plan."
It's all a bit off putting because the manager's plan was surely not to see
him fail in goal so regularly and finish up with nine from 43 appearances
and probably double that missed. He did cost £32 million after all!
ClaretandHugh can reveal, however, that he has slipped down the Hammersl
wanted list with one insider declaring: "Slaven half fancies him but there
are several other names in the frame. "Liverpoolare a very tough club with
which to do business. The players are on a lot of money and that makes
things hard when there are equally and perhaps more attractive propositions
elsewhere."
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West Ham Kitman wanted Apply within
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham are looking to recruit a full time Assistant Kitman/woman.
Reporting to the First Team Kitman after the retirement of Pete Williams at
the end of this season. West Ham say the successful applicant will be based
at the First Team Training Ground at Rush Green, Romford, and will assist
with the provision of a full kit service to the First Team Squad, working
within a small team in an often highly pressurised environment.
The role will require the ability to travel between Club locations and to
away fixtures. You will need to be flexible with your working hours and days
as the working pattern can be different from one week to the next. You will
be expected to work weekends and this can include long trips that on some
occasions mean staying away on the night previous to the fixture. Some
fixtures during the season may be played in midweek with an evening kick off
and you will be required to work these games. Due to the busy nature of the
job and industry you will be working in holiday time during the season is
very limited.
The post holder will assist in preparing kit requirements for both match-day
and training and will include being in charge of preparing the match-day
kits from Reserve to First Team level.
This involves making sure that all the kit is sufficiently washed, dried and
folded ready to go out for matches. Key Responsibilities include: To assist
in managing the club's kit requirements, ensuring that all day to day duties
are completed. To deal with the First Team management and staff's kit
requirements and attend staff meetings that requires the kit department to
have an input into the day-to-day running of the Training Ground. To
organise kit distribution.
To apply please send your cover letter and CV to hr@westhamunited.co.uk
before Monday 23rd May
The job plays London Living Wage currently £9.40 per hour on a 40 hours week
which works out as £19,552 per year.
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Irons striker chase: Vardy wants a fortune
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 20, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham's hopes are of landing Jamie Vardy are likely to be scuppered by
what ClaretandHugh is led to believe are some hefty wage hopes. The strong
word is that he is after between £125k and £150k a week which on a four year
package could cost the Irons approaching £30 million. Beyond blowing the
club's wage structure out of the water the Irons would be taking a huge
chance on a player who at 29 years is probably at the peak of his powers.
They may have considered a deal at around £100k a week but there is no
chance of a deal being done if the £125k to £150k figure is correct which
well informed sources are claiming. With Paris St Germain now favourites to
sign Alexandre Lacazette the Irons are widening their options on the striker
front although the club hasn't given up altogether on the Frenchman. They
are still hopeful things could change but they have no chance of competing
with PSG if their interest hardens up.
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West Ham face potential Europa League headache as Olympic Stadium won't be
ready in time for qualifying round tie
West Ham qualify for Europa League if Manchester United win FA Cup
Irons finished seventh in Premier League but United were fifth
Should West Ham make Europa League, opening fixture will be July 28
Fixture would come before completion of new Olympic Stadium
By ADAM SHERGOLD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 16:21, 20 May 2016 | UPDATED: 16:45, 20 May 2016
West Ham face a potential logistical headache if they qualify for next
season's UEFA Europa League. Slaven Bilic's side finished seventh in the
Premier League but will play in Europe if Manchester United beat Crystal
Palace in Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley. United have already earned
their place in the Europa League by finishing fifth in the league, so the FA
Cup place would pass down to seventh. The Hammers would enter the
competition in the third qualifying round, with the first leg scheduled for
July 28 and the second leg pencilled in for August 4. The potential
complication lies in West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium, which wouldn't
be ready in time if they are required to play at home in the first leg. The
60,000-seater stadium is only due to be handed over by UK Athletics to West
Ham on August 1 after the London Anniversary Games on July 23. It takes
seven days to convert the stadium from an athletics arena to a football
venue.
It means the club may either have to request permission from UEFA to switch
the home tie to the second leg after the handover, or play the match at an
alternative venue. The draw is set to be made on July 15, giving West Ham
less than a fortnight to confirm the arrangements. A prestige friendly match
with Juventus has been scheduled for August 7 but that would no longer be
the curtain-raiser if West Ham make it into Europe. The Hammers made it into
the Europa League via the Fair Play table this season but were eliminated in
the third qualifying round but lost to Romanian side Astra after knocking
out Lusitans of Andorra and Birkirkara of Malta. A West Ham spokesman said
plans would be put in place when the outcome of the Cup final is known.
Palace would also enter at the group stage if they beat United on Saturday.
If United win, Southampton would be upgraded to a start in the Europa League
group stage, with West Ham taking what was their place in the third
qualifying round.
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West Ham eye transfer of Leicester's Jamie Vardy as summer striker search
takes a new twist
22:30, 19 MAY 2016
BY JOHN CROSS
Hammers chief David Sullivan has also confirmed interest in Liverpool's
Benteke, had Lacazette bid rejected by Lyon and been linked with Batshuayi
of Marseille
The Mirror
West Ham are considering making an ambitious move for Jamie Vardy. Leicester
striker Vardy has enjoyed the season of his life as the 5,000-1 outsider
Foxes won the title, and that has made the 29-year-old one of the most
sought-after properties in English football. Several Premier League clubs
have been sounded out about the England international, and the Hammers are
understood to have shown an interest. West Ham are desperate for a striker
as they prepare to move into the Olympic Stadium for next season, and
co-chairman David Sullivan confirmed back in March that they would like to
bring in Liverpool's Christian Benteke. Lyon hitman Alexandre Lacazette and
Marseille's Michy Batshuayi are also on the radar, with the Hammers having
already made bids for both men. They have also been eyeing Manchester City's
Wilfried Bony . But if Vardy has a buy-out clause after signing a new
contract in February , then West Ham are ready to explore a move. It could
be difficult to lure him away from Leicester after he signed that new deal,
and with Champions League football to look forward to with the Foxes next
season when the Hammers could, at best, offer Europa League . But Vardy's
age and getting into top-level football late means that clubs may feel they
might be able to tempt him with an even bigger deal.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A definitive update for West Ham fans on Alexandre Lacazette
Date: 20th May 2016 at 5:30 am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
foreverwestham.com
Alexandre Lacazette's brother has admitted that the Lyon forward wants to
sort out his future in the near future, which could give West Ham a clear
indication of whether they can land him or not. The Hammers have made a club
record bid for the France international who continues to score at will in
his homeland. With Slaven Bilic's men eager to sign a number nine to fire
them into a new age at the Olympic Stadium, Lacazette would be an exciting
and able arrival. Lyon rejected West Ham's initial bid and are seemingly
keen to keep their attacking talisman at the Stade De Gerland this summer.
However, Lacazette's brother Benedict has stated that the hotshot forward is
keen to sort out his future before Euro 2016 and that the attacker was open
to leaving his current club. "Lyon will play in the Champions League,"
Lacazette told L'Equipe. "Until the end of May, French or foreign clubs who
are interested are allowed to contact Alexandre's agent. He doesn't want to
leave for the sake of leaving. Things will be determined when he is finished
with France. "Paris was already apparent last year. With the departure of
Zlatan, they seek to strengthen that position. It is not impossible that
Alexandre could go there, but it is not a certainty. There is no door closed
for now." West Ham look set to splash the cash on at least one striker this
summer, but will have to up their offer if they are to land Lacazette.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: West Brom plan shock move for Enner Valencia
John Percy
19 MAY 2016 • 10:30PM
Telegraph.co.uk
Tony Pulis is considering an ambitious move for West Ham striker Enner
Valencia. Pulis has added Valencia, the Ecuador international, to his list
of forward targets for the summer as he bids to bring in more firepower.
Valencia, 25, endured a frustrating season under Slaven Bilic after
struggling with a persistent ankle injury and then finding first-team
opportunities limited on his return. The £12 million signing could plunge
even further down the pecking order if Bilic manages to sign another forward
this summer, with Callum Wilson, Christian Benteke and Michy Batshuayi
understood to be targets. Pulis is assessing striker options and Valencia
has been identified as a potential signing due to his relatively low wages
of around £25,000 a week. West Brom are reluctant to pay a huge fee, after
spending £12 million to sign Salomon Rondon last summer, but would be
interested in a cut-price deal or loan arrangement. Pulis wants at least
one striker ahead of next season and the future of Saido Berahino remains
uncertain, with Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City still interested.
Albion are likely to demand a fee approaching £20 million for the
22-year-old, even though he has only a year left on his contract. Pulis
said: "I've told Saido to come back for pre-season as fit as anybody to make
sure, whether he stays, he plays at the level that everyone knows he can
play at. If not, and he leaves, then he is in good health for another club.
"The most important thing is we get Saido prepared and let it play out. "As
long as he is playing and focussed then if someone comes along and pays the
money that Jeremy [Peace, the chairman] accepts then fine."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Hello everybody,
It's been a great season for us, obviously. All the years I've been here,
we've always been looking over our shoulder, if you like, but this time
around it was nice to be looking at how high we could finish. It's
unfortunate we lost the last game, but seventh in the Premier League is not
too bad. Wherever you finish and whatever you do, you always think you could
have finished higher in the table, but I think if you'd been told before the
season that we'd finish seventh, we'd have taken it. It was disappointing to
finish the season how we did, but it's something to build on next year.
Personally, it was a little bit frustrating not to play a bigger part in the
final few games. I wanted to get back in and play and thought I might have
had a chance, but that's football and I'm old enough to realise that the
boys in the team had been doing well. Overall, I think it was my best season
for West Ham, and certainly the season in which I've had the least amount of
injuries, which was good at my age.
Now, I'll go away with Wales and hopefully my mid-season form for West Ham
might see me get a starting spot. I can't wait for the European Championship
finals. I had a chat with Mark Hughes at Stoke and for all us Welsh lads,
it's a new experience that he and so many other great Wales players never
had, for one reason or another. We're going into it blind, because none of
us really know what to expect, but we're full of excitement. We've got three
games to play and we'll be looking to qualify out of our group, and I think
we've got every chance. We meet up in Cardiff on Monday and have a week in
the sun in Portugal, then we get our heads on it for a friendly against
Sweden and then straight to France for the tournament. We have got Slovakia
first and I think that's a must-win for us. We need to go there and get
three points there to kick us off nicely. I think a win and a draw will see
us through, so that's what we're looking to do and we're confident we can.
I've had a little bit of ribbing from the English lads about the England
game, but it's more requests for tickets – they're going through the roof!
We've got Slovakia to look forward to first, then a massive game with
England. It's a huge game if we play England in a friendly, but to be
playing them in a major tournament is even bigger, but everyone's looking
forward to it.
Enjoy the Euros!
Ginge
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Winger Powell turns pro at beloved Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that pacey winger Joe Powell has
signed a new three year contract with the Club. The seventeen-year-old, an
avid Hammer himself, proved to play a crucial part of the U18s successful
season as they qualified for the top group of the play offs. Having pledged
his future to his beloved Hammers, a delighted Powell said: "It's a great
feeling to sign the big contract that you always dreamt about as a kid and
it's a bonus for me as it's for the club I love. "A lot of hard work has
gone into this moment, the older you get, the harder and the more serious it
gets and you have to compete with other players for your place. Of course,
my family are very proud of me, especially as they are all big West Ham
supporters! "When I first found out, I was over the moon and the support and
praise from everyone was amazing."
This term, despite suffering injury which limited his game time, the
attacker, a set-play specialist, made 15 appearances for the U18s, as well
as featuring for the Development Squad. He reflected: "This season has had
its highs and lows. I had a good few games with the U18s, and then got
called over to Chadwell to train with the first team. "I trained really well
over there and then made an appearance for the U21s against Brighton.
Unfortunately later that week had a scan on my back and got told I would be
out for the next three months which was gutting. But now I believe I've come
back to the game as a more intelligent, stronger player."
Having achieved one of his boyhood dreams, Powell is well aware that the
hard work is only just beginning, yet he is looking forward to the
challenge. And with the club's imminent move to the new stadium just around
the corner, what better time to continue his development at the club he
loves? He finished by saying: "It's a fantastic year for me to be signing as
we move into the new stadium which is very exciting. From the first team
down, the club has done very well this year and I'm very privileged to be a
part of that. "I'm really looking forward to exploiting the opportunity my
new contract has given me and I'm hoping to make my way into the first team
within the year or two. It would be an absolute pleasure to make my debut at
the new stadium and hopefully establish my position in the first team
squad."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
This has been a fantastic season for West Ham United and we will always
remember the final ever game at the Boleyn Ground. Whenever we beat
Manchester United it always memorable, but to do it in our final home game
and the emotions that surrounded the whole night makes it even more special.
It will live long in the memory for years to come. Unfortunately we could
not follow it up with another victory on the final day against Stoke and we
snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. How on earth did we not come away
with anything when we dominated the game and had so many chances? We had the
ball kicked off the line and Diafra Sakho had a great chance to make it 2-0
when he only had the keeper to beat and it turned out to be one of those
days. I was driving home disappointed and I could not get my head around how
we lost the game. We are now relying on Manchester United to do us a big
favour in the FA Cup Final on Saturday and we will become United fans for
the day. We all want to finish the season going into Europe and we will
better equipped going into the tournament if we can qualify for the Europa
League again.
The players who had the experience performing in the early rounds at the
start of the season will be a year older and more experienced. We will also
have new players coming in and we will have a much stronger squad. We have
already made our first signing of the summer with the arrival of Havard
Nordtveit. I am sure our supporters will say we have a very special player
when they see him play. I have watched games of him in action and he is a
very good player. I know the fans will take to him and he is just the first
of our new signings. We can trust Slaven and David Sullivan to get the best
transfers for the football club and they have negotiated great deals. We
will also look at the possibility of doing some loan deals and they have
proved to be great moves for the football club. You only have to look at
Manuel Lanzini who arrived last summer and we didn't know how he would
adjust. A year later he has been a fantastic signing for the Club. Some of
our players are now joining up with their countries ahead of the European
Championship Finals and I wish all of them the best of luck. I hope they all
enjoy a successful tournament and come back to West Ham at the start of the
season brimming with confidence.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bidding in the West Ham auction? Check the small print!
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Supporters currently bidding for items in West Ham United FC's auction are
being warned to check the small print in the terms and conditions provided
by the club.
With offers already reaching crazy levels for even the most basic of items,
bidders should be awar that each item is subject to fees that will raise
tohe toal price of each item by around 40 PER CENT.
The auctions T&C, which may be found here, state that TWO premiums will be
added to each sale price. "All lots are subject to buyer's premium and VAT,"
it states.
"The buyer's premium is 16 per cent and this will be added to the winning
bid price. VAT at 20 per cent will also be added to the winning bid price
and the buyer's premium."
By way of an example, the current highest bid for the toilet sign above is
£275. Adding VAT at 20 per cent (£55) raises the price to £330.
Meanwhile the buyer's premium equates to £44, which with VAT (£8.80) becomes
£52.80. By our reckoning, the final sale price for a £275 item is therefore
actually £382.80 - a vast difference from the listed price.
* Thanks to KUMB member erifles for spotting this one.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Veli happy where I am, says Besiktas star
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Besiktas midfielder Veli Kavlak has scotched reports suggesting that he is
on the verge of joining West Ham United. Turkish media suggested earlier
this week that the Austrian international, who has been with his current
club since moving from Rapid Wien in 2011 was on his way to London in order
to join the Hammers. However the 27-year-old - who is also reported to have
been interesting fellow Premier League side Everton - has revealed that as
things stand, he intends to stay with the Black Eagles. "I want to win the
league again with Besiktas next season," Kavlak - who signed an extended
four-year contract in January 2015 - told Fotospor. "We have not discussed
severing ties."
The West Ham link is believed to have emerged after Kavlak recently
expressed his admiration for former boss Slaven Bilic, who was in charge at
Besiktas between 2013 and 2015 - although he was first linked with a move to
London last summer. Speaking previously, the Vienna-born midfielder said:
"He [Bilic] was like a father for me. He always supported me and gave me
freedom to express myself."
Despite the links with Kavlak, Bilic's number one target from his previous
club is winger Gokham Tore. The current Hammers boss signed Tore from
Russian side Rubin Kazan in 2013.
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Lacazette one for the future, says France boss
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Didier Deschamps says that West Ham's top transfer target Alexandre
Lacazette could be a French international for years to come - despite hvaing
been left out of the squad for Euro 16.
Deschamp, who has placed the Lyon striker on a seven-man reserve list
admitted that Lacazette - who was the target of a £25million bid from West
Ham earlier this week - could have made the squad had his form been more
consistent for his club side during the 2015/16 season. And he also
expressed the view that the goalscorer would be a success wherever he chose
to play - be that Ligue 1, the Premier League or even La Liga. "Alexander
was much better in the second half of the season and more efficient," said
Deschamp. "He was at home, in Lyon, at a club he knows by heart. "Should he
stay, or should he go? It's up to him to make the right decision. And before
he decided, [Lyon] President Jean-Michel Aulas must also agree to let him
go. "But Alex has all the qualities to play in any of Europe's top
leagues." Lacazette, who hasn't featured for Deschamps and the French
national team since last October scored 23 goals for Lyon in Ligue 1 last
season - with 11 coming in his last ten outings
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mendy? That'd be Nice
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
German website Liga Insider reports that West Ham are one of a number of
clubs to have expressed an interest in Nice midfielder Nampalys Mendy. The
23-year-old defensive midfielder, who has been compared to former French
legend Claude Makelele joined Les Aiglons in 2013 but is thought to be set
for a move this summer, with several Premier League clubs said to be
monitoring his situation. In addition to West Ham, champions Leicester City,
Sam Allardyce's Sunderland and Southampton have both been cited as potential
destinations for Mendy, who is eligible to play for France having been born
in La Seyne-sur-Mer despite having Senegalese parents, as has Bundesliga
side Wolfsburg. Despite not having featured for Didier Deschamps' France
yet, Mendy has appeared at all levels from Under 18 to Under 21 for his
country.
* In other transfer news, West Ham are reported to have made a move for
Argentinian striker, Jonathan Calleri. The goalscorer is currently on loan
with Brazilian side Sao Paulo but negotiations are said to be at an advanced
stage.
* Juventus Roberto Pereyra is like to be leaving the Old Lady this summer
and West Ham are said to have expressed an interest in taking the player,
according to Talksport. The Argentine midfielder, who is rated around the
£9million mark made 16 appearances for the Serie A champions.
* Reports emanating from France suggest that Slaven Bilic is poised to
launch a bid for Arsenal's reserve right back Mathieu Debuchy. The
30-year-old made 17 appearances last season for the Gunners and Bordeaux,
with whom he spent the latter half of the 2015/16 campaign.
* West Ham's interest in Gregory van der Wiel has intensified after PSG
revealed that the Diutch international would be allowed to leave on a free
transfer after four years at the club. Manchester United are also rumoured
to be interested in taking the right back on a free.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vardy seeking six-figure wage
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Jamie Vardy is understood to have told potential suitors that they will need
to pay him in excess of £100,000-per-week in order to lure him from
Leicester. Vardy, who our resident ITK 'Jinxed' exclusively revealed via the
KUMB Forum earlier this month was a serious transfer target for the Hammers,
recently extended his contract with the Foxes. However the England
international, who is expected to lead the line for the Three Lions in
France at this summer's Euro 16 tournament could yet still leave the King
Power stadium - if the right offer is made.
Now 29, Vardy is also seeking a deal lasting at least four years, as he
seeks to capitalise on a fantastic season in which he has been crowned a
Premier League winner and established England international.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benteke hots up as Irons cool off
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Christian Benteke has again raised the issue of his future with West Ham
reportedly a target. The Belgian is known to have been unhappy with his
Liverpool season but has now widened his issue to claim that not only he but
others will be on their way to Jurgen Klopp's office for talks this summer.
H's reported this morning as saying he and others want to see the manager's
plans for next season and that the others too want to know what's going to
happen." He said: "I signed for five years – not one – but now I needs to
see the manager and discuss his plan."
It's all a bit off putting because the manager's plan was surely not to see
him fail in goal so regularly and finish up with nine from 43 appearances
and probably double that missed. He did cost £32 million after all!
ClaretandHugh can reveal, however, that he has slipped down the Hammersl
wanted list with one insider declaring: "Slaven half fancies him but there
are several other names in the frame. "Liverpoolare a very tough club with
which to do business. The players are on a lot of money and that makes
things hard when there are equally and perhaps more attractive propositions
elsewhere."
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West Ham Kitman wanted Apply within
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham are looking to recruit a full time Assistant Kitman/woman.
Reporting to the First Team Kitman after the retirement of Pete Williams at
the end of this season. West Ham say the successful applicant will be based
at the First Team Training Ground at Rush Green, Romford, and will assist
with the provision of a full kit service to the First Team Squad, working
within a small team in an often highly pressurised environment.
The role will require the ability to travel between Club locations and to
away fixtures. You will need to be flexible with your working hours and days
as the working pattern can be different from one week to the next. You will
be expected to work weekends and this can include long trips that on some
occasions mean staying away on the night previous to the fixture. Some
fixtures during the season may be played in midweek with an evening kick off
and you will be required to work these games. Due to the busy nature of the
job and industry you will be working in holiday time during the season is
very limited.
The post holder will assist in preparing kit requirements for both match-day
and training and will include being in charge of preparing the match-day
kits from Reserve to First Team level.
This involves making sure that all the kit is sufficiently washed, dried and
folded ready to go out for matches. Key Responsibilities include: To assist
in managing the club's kit requirements, ensuring that all day to day duties
are completed. To deal with the First Team management and staff's kit
requirements and attend staff meetings that requires the kit department to
have an input into the day-to-day running of the Training Ground. To
organise kit distribution.
To apply please send your cover letter and CV to hr@westhamunited.co.uk
before Monday 23rd May
The job plays London Living Wage currently £9.40 per hour on a 40 hours week
which works out as £19,552 per year.
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Irons striker chase: Vardy wants a fortune
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 20, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham's hopes are of landing Jamie Vardy are likely to be scuppered by
what ClaretandHugh is led to believe are some hefty wage hopes. The strong
word is that he is after between £125k and £150k a week which on a four year
package could cost the Irons approaching £30 million. Beyond blowing the
club's wage structure out of the water the Irons would be taking a huge
chance on a player who at 29 years is probably at the peak of his powers.
They may have considered a deal at around £100k a week but there is no
chance of a deal being done if the £125k to £150k figure is correct which
well informed sources are claiming. With Paris St Germain now favourites to
sign Alexandre Lacazette the Irons are widening their options on the striker
front although the club hasn't given up altogether on the Frenchman. They
are still hopeful things could change but they have no chance of competing
with PSG if their interest hardens up.
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West Ham face potential Europa League headache as Olympic Stadium won't be
ready in time for qualifying round tie
West Ham qualify for Europa League if Manchester United win FA Cup
Irons finished seventh in Premier League but United were fifth
Should West Ham make Europa League, opening fixture will be July 28
Fixture would come before completion of new Olympic Stadium
By ADAM SHERGOLD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 16:21, 20 May 2016 | UPDATED: 16:45, 20 May 2016
West Ham face a potential logistical headache if they qualify for next
season's UEFA Europa League. Slaven Bilic's side finished seventh in the
Premier League but will play in Europe if Manchester United beat Crystal
Palace in Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley. United have already earned
their place in the Europa League by finishing fifth in the league, so the FA
Cup place would pass down to seventh. The Hammers would enter the
competition in the third qualifying round, with the first leg scheduled for
July 28 and the second leg pencilled in for August 4. The potential
complication lies in West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium, which wouldn't
be ready in time if they are required to play at home in the first leg. The
60,000-seater stadium is only due to be handed over by UK Athletics to West
Ham on August 1 after the London Anniversary Games on July 23. It takes
seven days to convert the stadium from an athletics arena to a football
venue.
It means the club may either have to request permission from UEFA to switch
the home tie to the second leg after the handover, or play the match at an
alternative venue. The draw is set to be made on July 15, giving West Ham
less than a fortnight to confirm the arrangements. A prestige friendly match
with Juventus has been scheduled for August 7 but that would no longer be
the curtain-raiser if West Ham make it into Europe. The Hammers made it into
the Europa League via the Fair Play table this season but were eliminated in
the third qualifying round but lost to Romanian side Astra after knocking
out Lusitans of Andorra and Birkirkara of Malta. A West Ham spokesman said
plans would be put in place when the outcome of the Cup final is known.
Palace would also enter at the group stage if they beat United on Saturday.
If United win, Southampton would be upgraded to a start in the Europa League
group stage, with West Ham taking what was their place in the third
qualifying round.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye transfer of Leicester's Jamie Vardy as summer striker search
takes a new twist
22:30, 19 MAY 2016
BY JOHN CROSS
Hammers chief David Sullivan has also confirmed interest in Liverpool's
Benteke, had Lacazette bid rejected by Lyon and been linked with Batshuayi
of Marseille
The Mirror
West Ham are considering making an ambitious move for Jamie Vardy. Leicester
striker Vardy has enjoyed the season of his life as the 5,000-1 outsider
Foxes won the title, and that has made the 29-year-old one of the most
sought-after properties in English football. Several Premier League clubs
have been sounded out about the England international, and the Hammers are
understood to have shown an interest. West Ham are desperate for a striker
as they prepare to move into the Olympic Stadium for next season, and
co-chairman David Sullivan confirmed back in March that they would like to
bring in Liverpool's Christian Benteke. Lyon hitman Alexandre Lacazette and
Marseille's Michy Batshuayi are also on the radar, with the Hammers having
already made bids for both men. They have also been eyeing Manchester City's
Wilfried Bony . But if Vardy has a buy-out clause after signing a new
contract in February , then West Ham are ready to explore a move. It could
be difficult to lure him away from Leicester after he signed that new deal,
and with Champions League football to look forward to with the Foxes next
season when the Hammers could, at best, offer Europa League . But Vardy's
age and getting into top-level football late means that clubs may feel they
might be able to tempt him with an even bigger deal.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A definitive update for West Ham fans on Alexandre Lacazette
Date: 20th May 2016 at 5:30 am
Written by: Gareth McKnight
foreverwestham.com
Alexandre Lacazette's brother has admitted that the Lyon forward wants to
sort out his future in the near future, which could give West Ham a clear
indication of whether they can land him or not. The Hammers have made a club
record bid for the France international who continues to score at will in
his homeland. With Slaven Bilic's men eager to sign a number nine to fire
them into a new age at the Olympic Stadium, Lacazette would be an exciting
and able arrival. Lyon rejected West Ham's initial bid and are seemingly
keen to keep their attacking talisman at the Stade De Gerland this summer.
However, Lacazette's brother Benedict has stated that the hotshot forward is
keen to sort out his future before Euro 2016 and that the attacker was open
to leaving his current club. "Lyon will play in the Champions League,"
Lacazette told L'Equipe. "Until the end of May, French or foreign clubs who
are interested are allowed to contact Alexandre's agent. He doesn't want to
leave for the sake of leaving. Things will be determined when he is finished
with France. "Paris was already apparent last year. With the departure of
Zlatan, they seek to strengthen that position. It is not impossible that
Alexandre could go there, but it is not a certainty. There is no door closed
for now." West Ham look set to splash the cash on at least one striker this
summer, but will have to up their offer if they are to land Lacazette.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: West Brom plan shock move for Enner Valencia
John Percy
19 MAY 2016 • 10:30PM
Telegraph.co.uk
Tony Pulis is considering an ambitious move for West Ham striker Enner
Valencia. Pulis has added Valencia, the Ecuador international, to his list
of forward targets for the summer as he bids to bring in more firepower.
Valencia, 25, endured a frustrating season under Slaven Bilic after
struggling with a persistent ankle injury and then finding first-team
opportunities limited on his return. The £12 million signing could plunge
even further down the pecking order if Bilic manages to sign another forward
this summer, with Callum Wilson, Christian Benteke and Michy Batshuayi
understood to be targets. Pulis is assessing striker options and Valencia
has been identified as a potential signing due to his relatively low wages
of around £25,000 a week. West Brom are reluctant to pay a huge fee, after
spending £12 million to sign Salomon Rondon last summer, but would be
interested in a cut-price deal or loan arrangement. Pulis wants at least
one striker ahead of next season and the future of Saido Berahino remains
uncertain, with Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City still interested.
Albion are likely to demand a fee approaching £20 million for the
22-year-old, even though he has only a year left on his contract. Pulis
said: "I've told Saido to come back for pre-season as fit as anybody to make
sure, whether he stays, he plays at the level that everyone knows he can
play at. If not, and he leaves, then he is in good health for another club.
"The most important thing is we get Saido prepared and let it play out. "As
long as he is playing and focussed then if someone comes along and pays the
money that Jeremy [Peace, the chairman] accepts then fine."
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