Eamonn Dolan passes away
WHUFC.com
Former Hammer Eamonn Dolan has passed away aged 48
The West Ham forward came through the Club's Academy as a youngster
Ex-Academy Director Tony Carr pays tribute to player he coached through ranks
West Ham United are saddened to hear the passing of former player Eamonn Dolan. The striker came through the Club's Academy and went onto make 21 first team appearances between May 1987 and November 1989, scoring four goals for the Hammers. One of Dolan's major highlights in Claret and Blue was netting a brace in the side's 5-0 demolition of Sunderland at the Boleyn Ground back in October 1989. The Galway-born forward, after spells at Birmingham City and Exeter City, then forged a successful career as a coach, notably at Reading where he headed the club's academy. Prior to his time at the Madejski Stadium, Dolan had served as boss of the Grecians after his playing career had ended and enjoyed a successful season as boss at St. James Park.
Dolan passed away at the age of 48 after a courageous battle with cancer and will be missed by everyone connected with the Club. Former Academy Director Tony Carr knew Eamonn well, having been in charge as he rose through the Hammers' ranks, and expressed his sadness at the news. He said: "I'm extremely sad to hear the news of Eamonn's passing and football has lost a great man. "He was a good lad, a Chelmsford boy who was a good, honest footballer. He made the absolute most of the talent he had and obviously played for the first team. He was a top all-round lad; there's no two ways about that. "Eamonn went into a career of coaching and I bumped into him on several occasions over the years. We were on committees together within the Premier League for various youth development ideas, and everyone valued his thoughts and knowledge in the area. "We would always reflect on his time as a young player, doing our pre-season and giving everything he had. "I feel for his family, for his father Vince, who I knew very well at the time of Eamonn's West Ham days. We will miss his humour; he always made a fun and jovial line out of a story and as I've said, football has lost a great man."
Everyone at the Club would like to express their condolences to Eamonn's family and friends at this difficult time.
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Hendrie to join Blackburn on loan
WHUFC.com
West Ham United left-back Stephen Hendrie will join Championship club Blackburn Rovers on loan for the 2016/17 season. The 21-year-old enjoyed a progressive first season with the Hammers last term, winning the U21 Premier League Cup and being named on Slaven Bilic's substitutes' bench on eight occasions. Hendrie also spent a successful month on loan with League One outfit Southend United, scoring once in five appearances for the Essex club. The summer 2015 arrival from Scottish Premiership side Hamilton Academical is a Scotland U21 international and will hope to gain valuable first-team experience during his season at Ewood Park. Hendrie will link up with Blackburn for the start of pre-season training on 27 June, where he will work under new manager Owen Coyle. The left-back becomes the second former Scottish football star to join Rovers, as ex-Falkirk and St. Johnstone boss Coyle has also completed the permanent signing of Celtic and Republic of Ireland striker Anthony Stokes.
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Hammers legend - This is another big year for Payet
WHUFC.com
When it comes to legendary midfielders at West Ham United they don't come much bigger than Alan Devonshire. The Hammers fans' favourite made 448 appearances and scored 32 goals during a memorable spell in east London. Dimitri Payet has wasted no time becoming a cult hero with the West Ham fans and Devonshire knows more than most what is needed to win over the Hammers fans. Devonshire is hoping the French superstar can grow even stronger next season and help the Club move onto the next level when they prepare for a historic move into the new Stadium....
When you look back at the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground, do you think the team did everyone proud with what they achieved over the season?
AD: "They made everyone proud. It was a pity that we could not get to the FA Cup Final when Manchester United beat us, but we made up for it in the final ever home game. "They have had a great season and hopefully they can now push on and add a few more players. It will be nice to get into the European places on a regular basis."
The Club are preparing to make a historic move this summer. Do you think it can help West Ham move onto another level?
AD: "I do think that can be the case. With investment coming in, it might help the club push on. "As Leicester have shown it is not always about money and to be fair to Slaven he has done really well in his first year in charge. "I am pleased with how the team spirit seems to be running through the side and that is the main thing in any team. "Hopefully he can build on that and with Julian Dicks involved as well, that is a big thing because he knows what the fans want. Hopefully they can both build on that next year. I wish them both all the best."
You entertained the fans when you were playing at West Ham United and Dimitri Payet certainly did that last season. How excited have you been by his arrival at the Club and the impact he has made at West Ham?
AD: "He has been great. He is 29 and is the finished article. He has not got anything to learn. He will be tested next year because the first one is always the easiest. But he is now showing what he can do for France at the Euros and hopefully he can push on even more for West Ham over the next three or four years."
Why do you think the West Ham fans have taken to him so quickly?
AD: "He is totally different. He has got great feet and takes a great free-kick. He works hard for the team. The West Ham fans work hard and that is why they have probably taken to him."
What can you say about Slaven Bilic and the job he has done at West Ham during his first season in charge?
AD: "Slaven has done a great job. It will also be his second year at the Club and we will need to see how he does with the move into the new Stadium. "It will be new for everyone and I just hope we do well and keep the season-tickets sold out for the next few years."
How impressed are you with the support from the West Ham fans and the fact we have sold out all the season-tickets for the new Stadium?
AD: "What more can I say about the fans. I played at West Ham for such a long time and the fan base was always massive. "When I first joined there was always a big waiting list of fans wanting to get season-tickets. "The base was always there and now we are moving I have no doubts we will continue to sell out the stadium if the team are doing well."
Can the Hammers follow in the footsteps of Leicester and challenge for the Premier League title?
AD: "Why not? They have showed it can be done and it is not just about money and these big clubs. It is about team spirt and the balance of your squad so why can't it be done again."
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Payet - I think I can still improve
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet is refusing to put extra pressure on himself going into the knockout stages of the European Championships. Payet has been the star performer in the group stages of the competition and stole all the headlines with his memorable late strike against Romania in the opening game of the tournament. The Hammers forward quickly followed that up with another goal in the 2-0 victory over Albania and could have made it three goals in three games when his volley against Switzerland cannoned back off the bar. Payet has shown the whole of Europe why he is rated so highly by everyone at West Ham and is determined to continue his good run of form. Payet is now gearing up for the Round of 16 this weekend, but is refusing to get carried away with all the expectations resting on his shoulders from the host nation. Payet said: "It would be stupid to ruin it all by putting myself under pressure for no reason. I want to enjoy myself on the pitch. "People believe in me and they expect things from me; which counts a lot. I think I can still improve. "I've come a long way and I want to make the most of it now."
Payet reveals his experience of playing in the Premier League has made him an even stronger player and given him the extra quality to become a major performer at the Euro Finals. Payet added: "A lot of the physical contact is right on the limit. You're playing against a big European club every couple of weeks and you have to be ready. "I think the level of the Premier League prepared me for international standards."
Despite France being the strong favourites to win the competition, Payet still feels his side need to be more clinical and believes Germany and Spain are the teams everyone will have to beat if they want to win the European Championships. "We need to kill games off ... We've got to start putting them away. 'Germany and Spain' (are the tournament favourites. "(They) are a bit above the rest. They have the potential to go all the way."
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Ogbonna and Randolph to go head-to-head
WHUFC.com
West Ham United star Angelo Ogbonna is set to make his UEFA Euro 2016 bow for Italy in Wednesday's Group E finale against Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland.
The Azzurri have already wrapped up the group after back-to-back wins over Belgium and Sweden, and coach Antonio Conte has been forecast to make wholesale changes by the Italian media.
With his former Juventus teammates Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci both on yellow cards and at risk of suspension if they pick up another against the Irish, Ogbonna is tipped to line up alongside Andrea Barzagli and his close friend and ex-Torino colleague Matteo Darmian at the back.
Reports from the Italians' Montpellier training base also suggest Conte may opt to change his formation for the final group-stage fixture to a more attacking 4-4-2 system.
The strong and versatile defender became an increasingly important figure for the Hammers during his debut season in east London, appearing 34 times and scoring once – an unforgettable last-gasp FA Cup winner against Liverpool at the Boleyn Ground.
The 28-year-old is a two-time Italian champion from his time with Juventus and has eleven senior caps for his country. The Cassino-born player travelled to Euro 2012 with Italy, but remained on the bench as they finished as runners-up to Spain.
As for Randolph, the West Ham goalkeeper knows Ireland have no wriggle room in Lille, with only a victory giving them a chance of securing a place in the round of 16.
A 1-1 draw with Sweden was followed by a 3-0 defeat by Belgium on Saturday, leaving the Hammers stopper and his fellow Boys in Green needing to beat Italy to finish second or third in the group.
"It's not the end of the world," he said, reflecting on the loss to the Belgians. "We've got one more game, we know what we need to do, it's that simple – we win or we go home."
Ireland also took on Italy at Euro 2012, where the Azzurri ran out 2-0 victors, and the Italians have won eight and lost just two of the countries' 13 meetings – including a 1-0 win at the 1990 FIFA World Cup finals.
However, the Irish will draw on the memory of their famous 1-0 win over Italy at the 1994 World Cup finals in the United States, when West Ham Academy graduate Ray Houghton scored the memorable only goal in New Jersey.
The last meeting between the two, a friendly played in London in May 2014, ended goalless.
Kick-off in Lille is at 8pm on Wednesday 22 June, with the game being screened live in the UK by ITV.
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Hendrie leaves on season-long deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 21st June 2016
By: Staff Writer
Stephen Hendrie has joined Championship side Blackburn Rovers on a season-long loan. The 21-year-old Scottish full back moved from Hamilton Academicals to West Ham last summer but failed to make a single Premier League appearance under Slaven Bilic, who was not involved in the deal that brought Hendrie south. "I'm absolutely delighted to put pen to paper," the defender told Blackburn's website. "Obviously it's a massive club, it's going places and I'm buzzing to be here and I can't get wait to get started. "The manager played a big part [in my move] as did the size of the club. Hopefully it's going to be a good season, I just want to come here, get games, kick on and see how I do. "Back at West Ham, playing Under-21s is not ideal. It's good, but I want to be playing first team football and the Championship is such a good league so I'm happy to be here and I can't wait to get started. "I enjoyed it when I went [on loan] to Southend, I just wish it got extended so I could play more games. I only played about six games, but now I'm here and it's a full season loan and I just can't wait to get started."
Meanwhile Rovers manager Owen Coyle claimed that Hendrie had the potential to be a first choice at West Ham for many years to come - even if his lack of appearances thus far might suggest otherwise. "He's not the finished article because he's a young kid, but he has scope for development," said Coyle. "I know West Ham have got high hopes for him to play in the Premier League in future years."
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West Ham see £2.3million bid for midfield transfer target Atiba Hutchinson rejected
14:50, 21 JUN 2016 UPDATED 14:50, 21 JUN 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
The Irons have already moved quickly to snap up Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli and Borussia Moenchengladbach defender Havardt Nordvedt
The Mirror
West Ham have had a £2.3million bid rejected for Besiktas midfielder Atiba Hutchinson. The versatile Canadian, 33, is able to play as a holding midfielder or at right-back. Besiktas president Fikret Orman said: "[Slaven] Bilic suggested three million euros [£2.3million] for Atiba. We rejected this proposal and thank him. "Atiba has one more year on his contract with us." The Irons have already moved quickly to snap up Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli and Borussia Moenchengladbach defender Havardt Nordvedt. They continue to hunt a high-class striker and want to strengthen their midfield.
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West Ham player denies Ibe link
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 21, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
This morning, the Liverpool Echo claimed to have solved the mystery of Liverpool player Jordon Ibe photographed in a West Ham shirt which went viral on the internet on Monday. The Echo claimed this morning "The ECHO understands that the photos are genuine but it wasn't a sign that Ibe is about to join Slaven Bilic's men was in fact having a kickaround with mates in a local park in Essex when he agreed to pose for photos with fans. Among his friends was Nathan Mavila, who is on the books at West Ham. Ibe had borrowed a Hammers shirt from his pal which used to belong to France international Dimitri Payet."
Only problem with this theory is the West Ham academy player knows nothing about it. When ClaretandHugh contacted Mavila on social media earlier today to ask if he lent a Hammers top to Ibe during a kick in an Essex park he simply replied "😂 rubbish mate"
Nice try Liverpool Echo but we are still none the wiser. The photo appears to show Reece Oxford in the background. Ibe played for Liverpool against West Ham in the FA Cup at Anfield earlier this year while Reece Oxford was included on the bench in that game. Both are part of the England youth setup.
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Hammers continue 30 year striker search
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 21, 2016 in Fans Forum, News, Whispers
C and H
Alexander Lacazette's decision not to join the Hammers is a big blow but hopes remain high that we will find the man we need. It really is time we found such a player and it's a chastening thought that we haven't unearthed one since 85-86 when Frank McAvennie and Tony Cottee were wearing the claret and blue. Co-chairman David Gold admits that it's of crucial importance we manage to find one this season as we close in on the pre-season and PL campaign proper. Speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh he said: "Dean Ashton would have managed it I'm sure and that he got that injury is a total tragedy but we have to look to the present and the future and find that man. "Top defenders are incredibly important of course but a 20 goal a season man changes your life as a football club. "We couldn't be working harder to find the right man. It's been our focus since before the end of last season and such a player is well overdue at this club."
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Meet the man behind Dimitri Payet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 21, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
This mystery Frenchman is Dimitri Payet's agent. His name is Jacques-Olivier Auguste.
The football agent from the Vosges mountain region of France first met Payet in 2007 while he played for Nantes. He would later land a 200,000 Euro per month salary for Payet at Marseille in a four-year contract and more recently renegotiated the £125,000 per week five-year contract for his client at West Ham.
Auguste graduated with a law degree before deciding to become a licensed sports agent .He first became became a sports agent in basketball in 2003 then International rugby before finally getting into football as an agent.
The 42 year old still playing local football himself in the regional division for Eloyes for which he is a keeper. "My father played football at Thillot and E Epinal" said the sports agent to French media "I also played Thillot then Remiremont and Eloyes"
It is perhaps this trusted advisor who holds the future of Dimitri Payet in his hands.
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Payet in Real Madrid talks – Irons respond
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 21, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham have quickly rubbished suggestions that Real Mardid representatives have met with Dimi Payet's agent. A jounalist @EmaGiulianelli claimed on Twitter that the meeting took place in London yesterday (Tuesday). Giulianelli describes himself on Twitter as a football writer and journalist. Tribal Football columnist, cooperate with FIFA Weekly, Panenka, FourFourTwo, La Gazzetta dello Sport, Il Messaggero.
He tweeted: "Payet's agent is meeting a Real Madrid representative in central London today."
However, out top source inside West Ham threw disdain over the claim immediately declaring: "It would be amazing if that were the case. "Why would the agent – who is French – be in London? He will be at the Euros with Dimi and if such a meeting were to take place – which, by the way, I don't believe – why would it not be in France or Spain. "Let's get something perfect clear anyway shall we. There's always a bottom line and it is this – Dimitri Payet is contracted to West Ham United for five years."
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Sounders and States so close
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 21, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Unbelievably we are just 15 days away from our first game of the season – in America. We have become so preoccipied with Euro 2016 that the trip to the States has slipped almost out of our minds. But here's a great image of the stadium – built 20 years ago – awaiting to welcome our fans The Hammers travel to the States for their first game against Seattle Sounders with manager Slaven Bilic saying: When the opportunity was presented to travel to America, we were delighted to pursue it. sounders"I, my staff and the players are already excited about playing in the United States, and we are looking forward to taking the squad to new places, meeting new supporters and spreading the name and style of West Ham United far and wide."
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CANDH EXCLUSIVE: Lacazette makes up his mind
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 21, 2016 in News
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West Ham have been told that Alexandre Lacazette has no desire to join West Ham United. Amid widespread rumours of another bid going in – with one or two sites claiming it would be of £37 million – ClaretandHugh has been told categoically this morning: "That is not going to happen." Our top insider revealed: "We have been told 100 per cent by the player's agent that he doesn't want to comeand won't be joining us. "As a result of course there can be no further bids. It would need a dramatic change of heart by the player and that is seriously unlikely to happen ."
The general feeling inside the club is that Lacazette has used the Hammers interest in the hope that Paris St Germain will move in with a serious bid as it is widely believed this is the club he wants. However, in fairness to the player he has never made any secret of the fact that he wants Champions League football and the message has now been relayed to the Hammers in order to finally end the speculation. We were told: "We could have done no more but you can't persuade a player who appears to have made his mind up. IT remains with him but there will be no further bids."
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Bilic raves about England's defender!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 21, 2016 in News
C and H
Bilic lavished so much praise on Chris Smalling after the England v Slovakia, he started a few conspiracy theories running. The Hammers boss is known to be in the market for a central deender but Smalling – Manchester United's England man? Hmm. Following the game he said: "Smalling's great on the ball, can pass well, is very vocal, a leader, great in the air, very quick – blimey anything else? – "Three years ago he was a bit shaky. Maybe he's not as attractive as John Stones but he is good on the ball, passes wel, diagonal passes. He's one of the best in England." Couldn't be …could it?
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Harry: "Payet will want to stay"
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 21, 2016 in News
C and H
Former West Ham manager, Harry Redknapp believes West Ham will hold on to Dimtri Payet this summer insisting he will want to stay. Speaking to betting site Betsafe Harry said:
"I don't think they'd sell him. West Ham have a new stadium, 60,000 stadium, Olympic Stadium, sold 50-odd thousand season tickets, David Sullivan, David Gold, they aren't into selling that club, it's worth a fortune. They won't be short of money, I don't see a reason why they would sell their star player. "The fans idolise him, he has become a superstar with the West Ham supporters, probably the biggest crowd favourite since Paolo Di Canio. I definitely don't see West Ham selling Payet, he has either signed a new contract or is on the verge of signing a new contract. "I'm sure Slaven Bilic and the board will keep him. West Ham is an emerging club; they were excellent last year and next year they could do even better. Dimitri Payet will want to be part of that West Ham team; he has loved being at the Hammers. I'm sure he'll want to stay."
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Reading academy boss Eamonn Dolan dies aged 48
Last Updated: 21/06/16 3:19pm
SSN
Reading academy manager Eamonn Dolan has died at the age of 48. A club statement confirmed the Irishman had "lost a brave battle against cancer", 23 years after a playing career featuring spells at West Ham, Birmingham and Exeter was cut short by the disease. Dolan went on to manage Exeter before joining Reading as academy boss in 2004, and he was briefly in charge following Brian McDermott's departure during the Premier League season of 2013/4. Reading's statement read: "It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we regretfully inform supporters of the passing of Eamonn Dolan, who tragically lost a brave battle against cancer on Monday evening at the age of 48. "Our sincere condolences go out to his family and many, many friends. Eamonn was, and will forever remain, one of our own. "His energy for football was infectious. His enthusiasm for the sport we all love was evident in every compelling word he uttered. The level of pride he had in his work was enviable. "And each young player who Eamonn carefully nurtured through our Academy ranks and into professional football will today stand tall as testament to one great man's total dedication and unassuming but single-minded commitment to his job."
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West Ham United transfer news: Where could Dimitri Payet be playing next season?
By Joe Coleman - @JoeColeman1508
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Fresh from an outstanding debut season that saw him named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year, Dimitri Payet has lit up Euro 2016 with a series of sensational performances.
Discarded by Didier Deschamps little over a year ago, Payet's resurgent form with France at the European Championship has led to increased speculation over his future and even a bumper contract may not be able to keep the playmaker at West Ham United next season.
Here, talkSPORT examines the potential destinations if the 29-year-old leaves the Hammers this summer...
Real Madrid
Even before Payet's Euro 2016 displays, Los Blancos had held an interest in the Frenchman following his performances in east London. The problem however, could be fitting Payet in.
Zinedine Zidane has favoured a 4-3-3 formation allowing Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo to flourish alongside Karim Benzema, removing the need for an attacking midfielder. The demise of James Rodriguez, a player of similar ilk to Payet, should serve as a warning that a big-money move does not guarantee a place at the Bernabeu.
Barcelona
With uncertainty over Neymar's future, the Catalan giants may well be looking for a player with the ability to cut inside and create for the likes of Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi. Given Payet's performances for his country thus far, performing at the Camp Nou on a regular basis would be unlikely to faze him. The sticking point for any deal could be Barca's commitment to bringing through La Masia graduates, rather than buying superstars. Alen Halilovic impressed on loan at Sporting Gijon last season and the young Croatian will be keen to impress Luis Enrique this time around.
Manchester City
It was rumoured back in February that Pep Guardiola had set funds aside to make a move for Payet his priority once he arrived in at the Etihad. Clearly a fan, the incoming head coach will be keen to make his mark on the side he will inherit from Manuel Pellegrini. The struggles of Raheem Sterling will also be of concern to Guardiola. Rather than sell the 21-year-old, he may well assign Payet a mentoring role for the young star once both have returned from France. However, the Blues will be wary of poaching a fellow Premier League side's superstar. Costly moves for players such as Wilfried Bony, Jack Rodwell and Joleon Lescott in recent years have all had limited success.
West Ham United
Staying at West Ham would certainly make sense for Payet. Adored by the fans, the 29-year-old appeared to commit his long-term future to the Hammers by signing a massive five-year contract less than seven months after signing from Marseille last summer. Having completely sold out of season tickets for the Olympic Stadium ahead of the 2016/17 season, David Sullivan and David Gold will be well aware that the club are under no financial pressure to sell any of their star players. Payet may well find that his best move will be to start the season with West Ham, especially with a manager in Slaven Bilic whose stock continues to rise since leading the Hammers to a respectable seventh-placed finish last season.
However, the east London side's inability to offer him Champions League football may convince the Frenchman his future lies elsewhere.
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Monaco to finalise deal for Liverpool and West Ham target Benjamin Mendy by Wednesday - reports
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Monaco are hoping to tie up a deal for Liverpool and West Ham target Benjamin Mendy by Wednesday. The 21-year-old is leaving Marseille this summer as the club is in desperate need of balancing its books. Liverpool and West Ham had both scouted the left-back, while clubs in Spain were interested too. But, according to several reports in France, Mendy will be a Monaco player by Wednesday. The Frenchman will be moving for a fee of around £9million, with various add-ons and bonuses meaning that amount could go up over time. Mendy will also sign a five-year deal with Monaco and it is now only left for him to complete his medical.
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WEST HAM CLOSER TO AGREEMENT FOR BATSHUAYI THAN SPURS
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Marseille club president Vincent Labrune wants Michy Batshuayi to join West Ham over Premier League rivals Tottenham this summer. According to French source Buzzsport, Labrune is eager to see his star striker join the Hammers as they are offering a better deal than Tottenham are currently. The situation with Marseille is quite strange. In their financial accounts they will present to the DNCG at the end of June, they have already accounted for Batshuayi's sale in order to meet the regulations set of them. As it stands, with nine days left of the month, Batshuayi is still as Marseille player, and those costs they have accounted for have yet to be covered, meaning they could face sanctions from the DNCG where the strongest penalty would be demotion to the French Ligue 2.
Labrune and Marseille are looking for €40m to sell the Belgian striker this summer in order to cover those costs and avoid sanctions. Batshuayi, however, is willing to hold out for the right offer to come in for him, but Marseille don't have that time. The 22-year-old has made his intentions clear, he would prefer a move to Tottenham over West Ham, with Champions League football being a big factor in his decision. Spurs' offers so far are not suitable for Marseille who have rejected bids from the North London club for Batshuayi. They as a club would rather sell to West Ham who are much closer to the club's asking price for their star striker. For now, Batshuayi is not willing to talk to West Ham about a move as he is waiting for Tottenham to possibly up their offer. If that fails to happen, Marseille still need to sell, leaving West Ham the only option.
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WEST HAM STEP UP EFFORTS TO SIGN CALLERI
THOMAS BORE
ReadWestHam
West Ham have stepped up their efforts to sign Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri, according to Italian source Tutto Mercato Web. TMW say the Hammers have 'intensified negotiations' in the last 48 hours in order to thrash out a deal for Calleri and fend off stiff competition from Serie A side Inter Milan. Internazionale hold an interest in Calleri but are not prepared to be dragged into a bidding war with West Ham. Sport Witness claim London rivals Tottenham are also interested in signing the young Argentine.
Calleri was signed by Uruguayan outfit Deportivo Maldonado in 2014, for a reported £8.25million, but has been shipped out on loan to Sao Paulo in Brazil. His loan expires on July 31st and, should West Ham reach an agreement with Deportivo, that is when he would complete his move to East London. The 22-year-old has been touted as the 'new Carlos Tevez', a cult hero among West Ham fans, while Transfermarkt compares the player to Spanish forward Ayoze Perez of Newcastle. So far this season, Calleri has scored nine times in twelve appearances for Sao Paulo.
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HAMMERS SET £12M PRICE-TAG ON TOMKINS
THOMAS BORE
readwestham
West Ham have slapped a £12million asking price on former England under-21 international James Tomkins, as the race for his signatures heats up. HITC Sport understands Premier League duo Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion have already made initial enquiries regarding the availability of Essex-born Tomkins, while Crystal Palace, Southampton and Sunderland are also credited with interest. Tomkins is ready to call time on his 19-year West Ham career, having signed for the youth academy in 1997. The 27-year-old is thought to be unhappy with his squad role and wants a move away in search of guarantees over playing time. Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce is hopeful of reuniting with Tomkins, though the Daily Mail suggest the asking price may deter the Black Cats from bidding. Allardyce also remains keen on securing the services of Senegalese forward Diafra Sakho, who netted seven times in 24 appearances last campaign. The Hammers reportedly set a £15million price tag on Sakho and have already rejected two bids from Sunderland for the 26-year-old – worth £11million and £12million.
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MAKING PAYET PAY
By Blind Hammer 21 Jun 2016 at 07:45
WTID
Blind Hammer looks at how OS and TV Money makes an economic case for West Ham to resist a transfer for Payet.
When I wrote my recent Mind the Gap article some people commented that expanded TV monies were largely making stadium capacity irrelevant. This article is about why I think stadium capacity matters if we want to keep Payet.
If we look at how the TV money is divided amongst the clubs then some interesting features emerge. TV money does not follow league position. Last season, for example Arsenal was clear winners in Premier League TV money, even though they did not finish top. Despite winning the League Leicester finished not just behind Arsenal but also Manchester City, Manchester United and even Tottenham. Arsenal earned £100,952,257, whilst Leicester earnt £93,219,598. Why did Leicester earn less? The answer lies in the way TV money is distributed. TV money is made up of three payments. A core payment which is paid to all clubs, a merit payment which is based on league position, and finally and probably most crucially a facility payment based on the number of times that a club is shown live on TV.
The way the system works is that the Broadcasters get the rights to show 10 matches from each club without incurring any extra payment. For every match over 10 shown the Broadcaster had to pay an extra £747,922.
A good way then to judge the marketing success of your clubs is to count the number of live games in excess of this standard 10.
A not surprising cohort is in the group appearing only 10 times or less. Norwich with 9 games and Watford and Bournemouth with 8 games failed to reach even the 10 game marks. This is a little damning for these clubs as the Broadcasters could have shown 1 of Norwich's and 2 of Bournemouth's and Watford's games, in effect for at least half price, or even free if against each other. A second group of clubs are stuck on the 10 game marks. Crystal Palace, West Brom Stoke and Swansea complete the list of 6 clubs who received no extra TV monies last year. Despite the economic disadvantage this places these clubs in they probably still do better than the European counterparts where clubs negotiate individual TV deals.
Hovering just above this group was Aston Villa with 11 games, probably in less disastrous seasons they would have shown more, and Southampton with 12 games, surely disappointing given the quality of football they played.
Then there is a middle league in which West Ham currently sit. At the bottom of this middle league is Sunderland where the Broadcasters invested in 3 extra games, then come Leicester and West Ham, both showing 15 games, then this middle league is topped by Newcastle with 16 games and Everton who enjoyed TV monies from 8 extra games having 18 matches shown.
Then we have a top 6 where there was serious TV monies paid. The Broadcasters paid Spurs for 11 extra games, showing 21 matches, Chelsea came next with 22 matches, Liverpool with 23, Manchester City with 25 , Manchester United with 26 and finally Arsenal who proved to be the Broadcasters' favourites, having and extra 17 matches shown with 27 live appearances in all.
All this shows that the TV Monies league does not necessarily match performance, not only were Leicester trailing down this league, relegated Newcastle were also mid table. There is however, a closer correlation between TV Monies and a stadium capacity league table. This is not an exact match as the two main North East clubs; Newcastle and Sunderland were exceptions with larger capacities of 48,000 and 52,000 respectively, although each club rarely filled their stadiums.
Despite the North East anomaly the pattern of TV money following stadium capacity generally persists. The top 3 TV earners all have stadium capacities over 50,000. The top 5 clubs all have capacities over 40,000. All 6 of the bottom TV earners have capacities under 30,000. Outside of the top 5 only Newcastle Sunderland and Aston Villa have capacities over 40,000. Generally TV revenues are attracted to larger capacity stadiums across the league.
Why should bigger stadiums attract more interest from Broadcasters? Well part of this obviously reflects historic greater levels of support for these clubs. Equally important though is the fact that football is a glamour entertainment industry. The vast cathedrals of a modern football ground are the exciting backdrop to showcase the cream of the world's talent. Despite its famous lack of atmosphere the library at Arsenal's Emirates is the stage to which the Broadcasters are consistently attracted.
However even marginal advantages in revenue caused by extra TV money and attendance matter. Bill Kenwright commented on why Everton could not match the economic power of Liverpool. He explained that although Anfield exceeded Goodison by only 6,000 this meant that 19 times a season Liverpool achieved this extra revenue. 114,000 supporters more a season watched Liverpool. Over 5 years the gap inexorably grows with over half a million more paying customers. Also this extra support is unlikely to be confined to the same 6,000 extra people every game. It is more likely that many more supporters attend only a few games. In other words Even if a person attends only one game, they may become hooked into supporting a club in the longer term thus further generating TV interest. .
Consequently not only week in and week out, but over the longer term year in and year out, Everton are unremittingly pressured by Liverpool's competitive edge. Over time, Liverpool can generate more resources. Their marginal capacity advantage over Everton is further amplified when the TV monies deal is struck.
Yet stadium capacity alone, as Newcastle and Aston Villa have proven, does not necessarily translate into football success. Whilst the Olympic Stadium provides the infrastructure for growth we must have accompanying football excellence to realise this project. West Ham must grab the horns of the OS Opportunity to grow their TV appeal by providing the football to match.
This is why it would be economically insane to entertain any offers for Payet on the basis of transfer monies. Over four years Payet could probably garner the amount we would receive in any transfer monies simply from marketing of merchandise allied to the extra matches that the broadcasters will want to show. Apparently Broadcast money per game next year will grow even more. If West Ham achieve the same number of TV games as Spurs this is likely to generate £21 million a year in basic TV Match fees alone, before we even start to talk about merit payments and the increased core components of TV Monies. Of course each extra live match also provides the opportunity for an unparalleled free two hour merchandising advert for West Ham across the Globe.
Payet is now a global talking point. He can help West Ham expand not just for the here and now, but help provide the structural Launchpad to establish years of growth persisting long after his career has ended. He could be the figure for West Ham that Zola was in the period of Chelsea's transformation. This is probably a once in a life time opportunity for West ham to shake up the structure of the league. The Olympic Stadium must exhibit the football which makes the TV companies buzz around it like bees in a honey pot.
Currently Payet is the hottest property in world football. If he can be signed up for the West Ham ambition it is time to make Payet pay for West Ham.
David Griffith
Notes for information.
Below I reproduce the table I created to help me research and compose this piece. It shows the league table according to live matches shown and also shows the attendance of each club.
TV appearance League compared to Stadium Capacity.
Pos. Team. Matches shown. Capacity.
1. Arsenal. 27. – 60,260
2. Manchester United. 26. – 75,653
3. Manchester City. 25. – 55,097
4. Liverpool. 23. – 45,522
5. Chelsea. 22. – 41,798
6. Tottenham. 21. – 36,284
7. Everton. 18. – 39,571
8. Newcastle. 16. – 52,338
9. West Ham. 15. – 34,950
9. Leicester. 15. – 32,312
10. Sunderland. 13. – 48,707
11. Southampton. 12. – 32,505
12. Aston Villa. 11. – 42,660
13. Crystal Palace. 10. – 25,073
13. West Brom. 10. – 26,850
13. Stoke. 10. – 27,740
13. Swansea. 10. – 20,909
14. Norwich. 9. – 27,224
15. Bournemouth. 8. – 11,464
14. Watford. 8. – 21,500
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, June 22
Tuesday, June 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st June 2016
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
Once we sign a top striker I will feel a lot better and that is the main position we need. Our top goalscorer last season scored 12 goals and if someone had scored 20 we would have been in a different position. We all saw what Leicester did last season and we start the campaign with the aim of winning the Premier League. Anyone who says it can't be done only has to look at what Leicester achieved and it can be done. It is unlikely but that has to be our aim, along with the FA Cup and Capital One Cup. We have three trophies and we want to win all of them. We are also in Europe and we want to do well in that as well. It is a fascinating year next season because people will be wondering whether the old order be re-established or will it be broken forever? We will all find out next year. We are all excited about our big move into the new Stadium. The facilities will be so much better and I hope the atmosphere will be just as good there. With the next extended roof it brings in people closer together. Fans who attended the Rugby World Cup said it was very good so I am hoping everyone will be very pleased. The transport links for people getting there are so much better than the Boleyn Ground. Hopefully it will be a lot better for everyone. It is a modern stadium and it will be a better match-day experience in every way. The TV screens are huge and they will see the Club is moving forward. I think it is fantastic that Juventus will be our major first game at the new Stadium. We will have an opening ceremony and it will be a very exciting Sunday at the start of August. We will have a capacity crowd. Juventus are a very good side and have a formidable record in Serie A last season. They have won the title five-years in a row and it will be a tough game for our players.
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Dimi - 'I should have buried it'
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet says she 'should have buried' his sensational volley in France's goalless UEFA Euro 2016 draw with Switzerland on Sunday. The West Ham United star caught the eye yet again in Lille, where he was sent on as a second-half substitute after being rested from the starting XI by coach Didier Deschamps. Despite only being on the pitch for half-an-hour, Payet picked up where he left off in goalscoring appearances against Romania and Albania, capping his cameo by slamming Moussa Sissoko's deep cross against the underside of Yann Sommer's crossbar. While most players would have been pleased to have come so close to completing such an outrageous piece of skill, the Hammers hero was hard on himself in self-analysis, claiming he should have scored in his third consecutive Euro 2016 match.
"On my chance, Moussa Sissoko did superbly along the right wing and he put in a good ball for me," Payet recalled in speaking to L'Equipe. "I should have buried it in the back of the net."
Despite Payet's unfortunate miss, France topped Group A and now have a week to prepare for their round of 16 fixture, which will see them take on the third-place finisher in Group C, D or E – potentially Northern Ireland or Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland – in Lyon next Sunday afternoon at 2pm BST. With a week to prepare for that match, Payet says France need to continue playing the way they did in the first half against the Swiss, when central midfielder Paul Pogba took the game by the scruff of the neck and twice hit the woodwork himself with long-range efforts. "We need to keep in mind how we played during the first half," Payet confirmed. "We played freely and were getting stronger and stronger. In the first half we played well. Then, in the second half, both teams took their foot off the pedal so that they wouldn't concede. "We have now got a week to work hard ahead of our next game"
?Elsewhere at Euro 2016, James Collins will hope to make his first appearance of the finals when Wales take on Russia in Toulouse on Monday evening at 8pm BST. Victory for the Welsh would take them through to the knockout stages for the second time in their history.
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Crossbar denies Dimi three out of three
WHUFC.com
West Ham United star Dimitri Payet was just the width of the crossbar away from making it three goals in three UEFA Euro 2016 appearances on Sunday evening. The Hammer of the Year emerged from the substitutes' bench to produce an eye-catching late cameo, hitting the underside of the bar with a sumptuous side foot volley as France were held from a goalless draw by Switzerland.
The result meant the French top Group A ahead of the Swiss, but they could have made it a perfect nine points from nine had Payet's wonderful effort from Mousa Sissoko's cross dipped a little more after flying past goalkeeper Yann Sommer. The West Ham man was given a hero's welcome on his return to Lille, where he spent two successful seasons playing alongside the likes of Eden Hazard and Joe Cole between 2011 and 2013. His introduction lifted a competitive but largely uneventful game previously only lit up by two shots from Paul Pogba which also hit Sommer's woodwork – the first after a handling error from the Switzerland stopper. However, it was Payet's volley at the end of a powerful 60-yard run from Newcastle United's Sissoko which was the undoubted highlight – drawing widespread acclaim on social media.
Didier Deschamps' side will have a week to prepare for their round of 16 fixture, which will see them take on the third-place finisher in Group C, D or E – potentially Northern Ireland or Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland – in Lyon next Sunday afternoon at 2pm BST.
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
Both Slaven Bilic and Joint-Chairman David Sullivan have made it clear that the Club are looking to bring in a top quality striker who can score 20 goals a season. As a result there has been continued speculation since the season ended on which players will be brought into the squad. Michy Batshuayi, Alexandre Lacazette, Christian Benteke, Wilfried Bony are just a few of the big names that have been linked with a move to the east London Club. It is not just arrivals that have been talked about, but possible departures as well.
There have been reports over the summer linking Diafra Sakho with a move away from the Hammers with former manager Sam Allardyce reported to be interested in signing the Senegal forward. Stories emerged last week that West Ham could even entertain a swap deal involving Sakho and West Brom Saido Berahino. But my sources have told me that the Club are not interested in that move taking place.
There has also been a lot of speculation surrounding the future of James Tomkins who appeared to slip down the pecking order following the successful partnership between Winston Reid and Angelo Ogbonna at the heart of the Hammers defence. Reports have indicated that Sunderland, Crystal Palace, West Brom and Stoke are interested in making a move for the 27-year-old who joined West Ham as a schoolboy back in 1996 and is a graduate of the club's academy. With the Club preparing for another busy season and the potential of playing in the Europa League group stages, there will be a number of games for players to stake their claim for a first-team place. Without naming individuals it is my understanding that some of the fringe players in the squad could leave during the summer if the right offer comes in. I have been told that the manager does not want unhappy players in the dressing room and the same rule applies to any of the fringe players who could be seeking a move elsewhere during the summer.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
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Reid - Dimitri has been brilliant
WHUFC.com
West Ham defender Winston Reid has been keeping an eye on his Hammers teammates who are in action at UEFA Euro 2016 while enjoying a holiday prior to the start of the Club's pre-season training. The 27-year-old, who bagged the famous winner against Manchester United in the Boleyn Ground's final game last season, has been particularly impressed with French star Dimitri Payet in France, who has stolen the show for the hosts so far in the tournament. After bagging the late screamer that saw his side beat Romania in the competition's opener, Payet followed the stunner up with Les Bleus' second in the 2-0 victory over Albania, before smashing against the crossbar in Didier Deschamps' side's final group match against Switzerland. And Reid, speaking to New Zealand-based station Radio Live, has not been surprised with the midfielder's terrific performances. "I saw the opening game and he was really, really good in that game and came up with a brilliant goal at the end," he said. "I didn't see the second game, but I heard he got another goal and played a part in France's other goal. "He's had an unbelievable twelve months and hopefully he can carry on with that form. "Dimi is small and quick and technical whereas I am almost the complete opposite, so there are not a lot of similarities between us!"
The Hammers travel to the USA for their pre-season tour at the beginning of July, and will take on both the Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders as well as North American Soccer League outfit Carolina RailHawks. Before the trip however, Reid has been enjoying a well-earned break abroad with his family. "I'm in Mexico with my family [at the moment]," he continued. "We start back up in a couple of weeks' time so I'm just getting away and spending some time with them. "The nicest thing I've been able to do is to travel, as I like to get around and see places with my family. Having kids, it's nice to be able to show them different places of the world and allow them to get experiences."
While many of Reid's teammates have been representing their countries this summer, the New Zealand international was not included in the All Whites' squad for their Oceania Football Confederation Nations Cup campaign due to a stop-start season with injuries. However he was pleased to see his national side win the competition earlier this month after they defeated Papua New Guinea on penalties in the final to qualify for the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. "You have to adapt to any sort of environment you are playing in and it's difficult playing in the Pacific islands, and you have to get the best out of the group," Reid explained. "At the end of the day, the most important thing was the qualify for the FIFA Confederations Cup. "Time flies [for a national team], as it seems like yesterday when I was scoring that goal in South Africa [against Slovakia in the 2010 FIFA World Cup]. It was a good time we had out there."
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Samuelsen's happy anniversary
WHUFC.com
Exactly a year ago, a young winger named Martin Samuelsen joined West Ham United.
At the time, West Ham fans knew little more about the Norwegian than the fact that he had spent time with Manchester City's Academy and scored hundreds of goals for hometown club Vard Haugesund as a schoolboy.
Twelve months later and every Hammer knows Samuelsen's name after the tall, skilful wideman enjoyed an eye-catching debut season for club and country.
The 19-year-old started his West Ham career by scoring on his debut in a pre-season game at Peterborough United, before marking his competitive bow with a performance full of tricks and turns against Birkirkara in the UEFA Europa League.
Next up came a productive loan spell with Peterborough, where he scored a sensational goal against Sheffield United before producing a Man of the Match display in an FA Cup fourth-round replay defeat by Premier League West Bromwich Albion.
Samuelsen's season was far from over, as he returned to east London to help the Development Squad to win the U21 Premier League Cup, before earning his first senior call-up to the Norway national team in May – making his debut against Iceland on 1 June.
I obviously hope to get a place in the Premier League squad, but know I have to train well. I have to really impress in the summer, but nothing is impossible
So, how does the talented teenager reflect on his first year as a Hammer?
"I started by scoring a goal on my debut at West Ham, and then I got to play in front of a packed Upton Park," he started. "I've been in the Europa League and it has been a great season. I did well in Peterborough and things have definitely moved forward."
What about a single highlight among so many memorable moments?
"It was playing against Premier League team West Brom in the FA Cup," he revealed. "It's the one I remember best and it was my breakthrough. It was a great experience and important for the future. I did finally show what I can do and it was the opinion in both Norway and England.
"I got just got to shown what is inside me and it was great to meet players like Darren Fletcher."
Samuelsen turned 19 as recently as April, and he is intelligent and aware enough to know that a first-team breakthrough at West Ham will come about only through more hard work and development of his game.
However, with players away on international duty, the Norwegian is set to join Slaven Bilic's first-team squad on their pre-season tour to the United States.
There, the youngster will hope to catch the manager's eye yet again and state his case for a place in the manager's squad when the UEFA Europa League campaign kicks-off in late July – and when the 2016/17 Premier League season gets under way on 13 August.
"I've talked a little with Slaven Bilic and he was impressed with what he saw," said Samuelsen. "I'll be with West Ham in pre-season, but it's impossible to know what happens.
"I obviously hope to get a place in the Premier League squad, but know I have to train well. I have to really impress in the summer, but nothing is impossible."
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Bishop - The move has got to happen
WHUFC.com
Former West Ham captain Ian Bishop will never forget his memorable spell with the Hammers after he became a fans favourite during his eight-year spell in east London.
Bishop made 304 appearances and played his part in helping the Hammers gain promotion back into the Premier League.
As the Club prepare for a historic move this summer, Bishop says he will always remember the special atmosphere that was created by the West Ham fans inside the Boleyn Ground....
I was back at the Boleyn Ground for the final ever game against Manchester United and it was a night I will always remember.
It is obviously sad that we are having to leave the famous stadium and I bumped into some fans at Liverpool Street on the way to the game who said they didn't want to leave.
But the move has got to happen for the club to progress.
The atmosphere and the people that you have at the Boleyn Ground will never be forgotten.
Nobody liked coming here to play us and there was always that pressure. If you didn't perform they would let you know about it.
But when you get the fans on your side there is no better feeling.
I will never forget the famous old Chicken Run and the supporters who used to stand there.
The bad thing for me was having long hair and I was thinking anyone could have grabbed me if I was not having a good game!
Sometimes we would get a throw-in and I would pretend to do up my laces so I wouldn't have to take it! It was ferocious but that made for the atmosphere.
I don't remember losing many games under the lights and there is nowhere like West Ham under the lights.
I will never forget the FA Cup quarter final game against Everton and I was captain at the time.
There was also the second promotion year after I arrived here. We thought we had won the league, but finished second.
We had the champagne in the dressing room ready and to then go upstairs and see all the fans all over the pitch and around the stands -it was one of those moments where we did it for all those people.
We thought we had let them down but it wasn't the same on the pitch. To have that kind of following is incredible.
We are now preparing for a new era and things have to move on. We will always take these memories with us as we prepare for the move to the new Stadium.
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West Ham's 'Insider' questioned
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
A feature on West Ham United's website purporting to offer inside information on potential transfers has been criticised by a Scottish journalist. STV writer Grant Russell openly questioned the validity of a feature on whufc.com accredited to 'The Insider', an irregular column penned for the club's website by an unnamed individual who claims to offer fresh information on both incoming and outgoing transfers. Russell went on the offensive this afternoon when he referred the existence of an 'ITK' column on a Premier League member's website as "incredible".
Grant Russell @STVGrant
This is incredible from an official club website. https://twitter.com/whufc_official/status/744881122237087744 …
2:16 PM - 20 Jun 2016
2 2 Retweets 9 9 likes
"It feels like real inside info which doesn't sit well with me," he said, speaking via social media platform Twitter. "I think it's got great value potentially - but the 'sources' thing doesn't sit well."
In his (or her) latest column, 'The Insider' talks about a number of strikers who have been linked with a move to east London before suggesting that some non-first team players are likely to leave the club this season. Crucially however little of the information provided is new and instead sticks largely to commenting on speculation and/or links that have already been provided by other sources, such as KUMB.com.
Fraser McNab @frazzy_doo
@STVGrant very strange to finish with "views of the author and not necessarily West Ham." Especially on their official website.
2:19 PM - 20 Jun 2016
Retweets likes
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JACK SULLIVAN'S EXCLUSIVE COLUMN-NORDTVEIT AND FEGHOULI REJECTED OTHER TOP CLUBS!
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2016 AT 7:54PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Hello again, sorry I have not had a column for a while but this is due to my GCSE's, which I have now finished!!!! This is great news for you, as now I can start writing again.
As most of you know the transfer window is the time when my Twitter really comes alive! So far we have been the most active club in the league and in my opinion we have signed some real quality. Håvard Nordtveit is a great player and someone who will provide competition in the squad. He has turned down Champions League football next year to join West Ham and can play in a number of positions. However, I think he will mostly be in midfield and will replace Song! He has been fantastic in Germany this year and has a hell of a shot on him and could become a real star at West Ham!! We have also signed Feghouli on a free, once again picking us over lots of other clubs and he is looking forward to our project at West Ham. Feghouli has been incredible for Valencia in the past, his pace and skill is something that I know the fans will love and he is a really exciting, classy player. He has been linked with huge teams in the past and it has taken DS weeks to pull this deal off!
We have also signed two youth players, who I hope can break into the first team. Martinez and Quina are very well respected in the youth world and like Nordtveit and Feghouli, they are two very exciting players.
Also let's not forget that Lanzini is now our player and we all know what he can do! Our squad looks stronger and stronger and we are still far from done. I do not want to give too much away, but DS, Slav and Tony Henry are still working to pull off more signings and I'm sure by the end of the window our squad will be stronger than ever before!
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MAHINDRA(OLYMPIC)INSIDER'S EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 JUNE 2016 AT 8:58PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Been a while but here we go again, I have read the article titled 'If I owned West Ham United' and almost felt put off writing this, as it hinted that we would give up the pursuit of Alexandre Lacazette and focus on Vincent Janssen. I think the Dutch striker would be a good purchase for our club, but I was lead to believe differently regarding the Lyon attacker. At the end of last week Exwhuemployee hinted that today we would submit a bid of around £37m plus add ons and I had heard similar. So this website gets confusing, as there are 3 stories about Lacazette now and Ex's new article (to come at 10) may side with the mystery author and leave me on my own here. Going by Ex's previous article, the outcome is the same as my belief, that Alexandre would become a Hammer in this window even though the fee is a big one. This could impact other deals we had lined up, and Aulas (Lyon President) is a tough negotiator. However the plus for West Ham is they are watching the movements of Alvaro Morata who could move back to The Bernabeu, as clubs circle for the Juventus front man. Real Madrid have the option to buy him back, and this could allow Lyon to move for their former man, Karim Benzema, to replace Lacazette, should they decide to allow the Frenchman to move on. So for now, I still predict we will go as far as we can in pursuit of Lacazette and am quietly confident our chairman will get him – there is plenty of time left in the window and despite their deadline of the 1st of July, I just do not see us giving up just yet.
Crystal Palace have been linked with James Tomkins but I can see our Senegalese striker, Diafra Sakho, joining them. This is more from the Palace side of things and does not come direct from a source but is more Chinese whispers. They are hopeful that they will sign at least one striker for around the £10m mark this summer. It falls short of West Ham United's valuation but it is clear Bilic does not want players here that wish to leave and it looks more and more likely that Diafra falls into that category. Sunderland made an offer earlier on of £11m but with just £6m of it up front and the rest in a complicated structure so the £10m cash fee from Crystal Palace may provoke some thinking in the board room.
Lastly we look at our prodigy, Reece Oxford. It does look like Newcastle United's interest is firm as Benitez has a cleaning up job to do and has been given a tight control of transfers. This is unusual over the last few seasons but the club had to do all they could to keep him. Steven Taylor left this summer, plus Coloccini wishes to head back to Argentina so cover in central defence is required but Reece would be behind Lacselles and Mbemba in the pecking order. Reece wants more game time but personally I expect the club to wait until we know if we will be in the Europa League group stage or not. That does mean waiting until the 25th of August, hopefully we will be and Reece, and other youngsters, may have a big part to play next season if that is the case
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE'S EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 JUNE 2016 AT 10:00PM
So like buses, I wait for three of our sites' ITKs to submit articles and having waited a while and two come at once. Both sources that wrote today are superb. "I owned West Ham" is an extremely well placed agent/media person with strong links in the club and the Mahindra (Olympic Insider) works for the club in a certain capacity and I am still waiting for the "Informer" to update us recently. It is great to have so many well placed people write for the site. Both of today's were given opposite news on Lacazette and whether he would join which is very interesting and shows the delicate situation of the deal. This is the first rumour I will clear up.
Rumour one: Have we bid again for Lacazette? I thought another bid would go in today but it appears that it hasn't. The club had "further discussions" with Lyon and are growing increasingly frustrated with the French club. Every time it looks like we are progressing with the deal Lyon change the goal posts. There has to be a point where we draw the line and say take it or leave it and that appears to be the position at the moment. I don't think the deal is over and I agree with the "Insider" that we will try again but at this moment it appears to be grinding to a halt. We also have to convince the player to join too once we agree a price. So there are many hurdles to get over at this point still.
Rumour two: Jordan Ibe is joining the club from Liverpool as he is pictured in a West Ham shirt: This is not true. Jack Sullivan confirmed this and the club have no knowledge of a bid. Those of you who have bought The West Ham Way fanzine will find out some details of a surprise target but I can confirm it isn't Ibe. The story behind him being in a West Ham shirt looks like he lost a dare to Reece Oxford and had to wear a West Ham shirt as a consequence.
Rumour three: Are we trying to loan Tore and buy Hutchinson? "If I owned West Ham" called this in his article where he said the club are getting concerned about the value for money that they are getting for these two players. Tore is Bilic's number one target and DS will always try and honour Bilic's requests however they are concerned at the pricing of Tore and a loan offer was suggested. It was more in hope then conviction but they club are exploring options to bring down the set transfer fee of Tore. They are also concerned that they may be charged over the odds for Hutchinson and have had a bid rejected for him. Expect these deals to have some movement soon.
Rumour four: Payet wants to join Madrid: I brought the interest of Madrid in my column exclusively over two weeks ago. It has to be said that Payet idolised Zidane when he was younger and that this would obviously be a major attraction (as if you need persuading to be interested in Real Madrid). Payet has also said this week he is happy at the club and at the moment he is concentrating on the Euros. The chairman are determined to keep hold of him no matter the price.
Rumour five: Various players to depart: As I have been saying in my columns for a long while now the club will listen to offers for a number of fringe players. Tomkins is considered one of those. There is a strong chance that he will be moving on very soon and bringing to an end a great career at the club. Obiang is another who may well move. He was unhappy at his game time last season. Sakho and Valencia also have interested in them and should leave.
Rumour six: Is the Mahindra deal finalised? No it is not. It is likely to be the deal but it is not confirmed as yet.
Rumour seven: Janssen is a target? I have reported this name myself and "If I owned West Ham" is very well placed on transfers. If he says we are interested then we must be. He has been highly linked to Spurs but as yet the deal has not been finalised to them.
Rumour eight: Do we want a right back? Early on in the window I said that we have priorities in other positions that remains the case.
Our West Ham fanzine will go on sale to purchase online tomorrow. Please buy it to get even more exclusive news.
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West Ham to make top six
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Darren Chalker
It will be upon us sooner rather than later, and I for one cannot wait to see how Slaven Bilic does in his second season at West Ham United with a higher percentage of the squad being 'his' players.
We have made early moves in the transfer market and, like last year, have signed players few of us have heard of. We used to call them "Sully specials", but it seems to be different now.
Where we finish season 2016/17 will probably be dictated by how well and how quickly we settle in to our new home at the Olympic Stadium. A good early run of fixtures is handy, because it's vital we get a first win there early doors.
What I'm really looking forward to though is seeing how the rest of the division will shape up. Last season – with Leicester City beating all and sundry to claim the title - shook the foundations of the Premier League.
So what will happen this season? No one can go out there now and blow everyone else out of the water spending-wise, because now most clubs have similar financial clout.
Chelsea have to perform a complete rebuild in my opinion and it's a job they really started two years ago and are struggling with. Manchester United are in pretty much the same boat as Chelsea, although in Jose Mourinho they do have a (new) manager that has vast experience of the Premier League.
Conversely, Manchester City for me are the team to beat. Pep Guardiola has done it in more than one national league and already possesses the basis of a Champions League winning squad.
Leicester City again? Who knows. It wouldn't surprise me if they were to finish in the top four again - but it also wouldn't surprise me in the slightest if they finished bottom four. Arsenal? Same old, same old as far as I'm concerned. Unless Arsene Wenger suddenly changes his ways, which he won't, they will carry on flattering to deceive.
How about Tottenham? They had a very strong season last year aided by having very few injuries. I can't see them doing as well next season, and wouldn't be at all surprised to see their manager leave for pastures new sooner rather than later
Everton? Who knows, but surely the football will be better to watch As for West Brom, now the Aston Villa of the division - poor to watch and always down the bottom
Sunderland are now similar to the Albion of two years ago as far as I'm concerned. Sam Allardyce will continue with his 'consolidating' style and will probably leave at the end of the season with the Mackems comfortably mid-table.
Over at Selhurst Park, I suspect Alan Pardew may not be able to motivate his squad to be anything other than strugglers next season. A bad start to the campaign and he'll be gone reasonably quickly. Meanwhile at Bournemouth I can see Eddie Howe getting itchy feet very early doors and moving on to pastures new.
With regards to Liverpool, I'm far from convinced that Jurgen Klopp is as good as he is made out to be, but they will probably be there or thereabouts come next May. As for thehe other top eight side, Southampton, it's difficult to comment until they make an appointment to replace the Everton-bound Koeman.
Stoke? See Sunderland, Swansea? See West Brom, but just a little better off
So for me there's a few interesting stories awaiting us for next season - and that's even before the transfer window has opened!! I can honestly see the coming season being stranger than last season with, once again, a team doing really well that few (if any) predict to do so.
So I'm going to go for a top six featuring Manchester City, Manchester United, West Ham United, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool. The bottom six, I think, will consist of West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace, Watford plus the newly-promoted trio of Middlesbrough, Burnley and Hull City.
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Lanzini hoping to make the cut
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
Manuel Lanzini is optimistic about his chances of making the Argentina squad for the forthcoming Olympic Games.
he Rio games' football tournament takes place between 5-21 August and the young Hammer retains high hopes of being involved, despite manager Gerardo Martino confirming recently that he will reduce his preliminary squad from 35 players to just 18 later this month.
However with the likes of Paulo Dybala, Angel Correa and Cristian Pavón already ruled out or considered doubtful for the tournament the 23-year-old West Ham midfielder has an excellent chance of being involved - much to his delight.
"I am very happy at being taken into consideration," Lanzini - whose involvement would result in him potentially being unavailable for West Ham's opening two games of the 2016/17 season - told goal.com.
"I hope to be in the final squad as to play at the Olympics would make me very proud. I've spoken to Slaven Bilic and the club and they told me that there will be no problem."
West Ham open their 2016/17 Premier League campaign away to Chelsea on 13 August before hosting Bournemouth at the Olympic Stadium a week later (20 August).
The Olympic Games quarter finals also take place on 13 August with the semi finals to follow four days layer (17 August). The men's final and bronze medal matches both take place on 20 August.
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WOULD YOU SELL PAYET?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2016 AT 9:56AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Yes, I know it is a bold question, but with so much speculation it needs to be discussed! I started to write this article a week before Euro 2016 began and thought better of it, as I assumed I would get some abuse. However, after such an incredible start for Dimitri, I just had to write something.
I was almost certain that Payet would have a great Euros and that he would become hot property and he hasn't let me down. He was by far the most important player on the pitch against Romania and his last-gasp, match winning strike sealed a dream tournament opener for him. He then followed this with another superb game against Albania, scoring another last minute goal. With these two goals, one assist and 14 chances created in just two appearances, he is closing in on Zidane's record of 15 chances created back in 2004.……maybe he is better than Zidane after all………(awaiting comments). With France already qualified it means we are likely to see at least a couple more appearances by France's Number 8 and if he continues this fine form, I think there are going to be lots of top teams interested in him.
I have to be honest and admit that when speaking to family members earlier in the season about whether I would accept a 'big' offer for Payet, I had mixed feelings. I did think accepting an offer of £50m for a 29 year-old could be good business, especially when we paid so little for him in comparison. Selling him would mean we could buy a couple of young and exciting players, with bright futures ahead and still have the likes of Lanzini, Kouyate and Ogbonna to provide a solid and creative base.
There is no questioning his talent and passion, but for the second half of the season I felt that Payet would often go missing for large parts of the game and believed that the 'We've got Payet' hype was a little unjustified at times. However, just when you forgot that he was on the field, he would provide a superb assist or one of his now famous freekicks. The stats speak for themselves and it is no coincidence that our worst run of form coincided with the period that Payet was injured.
In conclusion, Payet's form so far in Euro 2016 has been incredible and I would say he has been France's most vital player for almost the whole 180 minutes he has played. I am praying West Ham do not sell him, for any amount, as I believe he is priceless! He himself will attract the high-profile players we all dream of and can you imagine another couple of top players in an already exciting squad? There is a bright future ahead if we are still singing 'We've got Payet'at the OS!
Would you sell Dimitri and how much is he worth?
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EXCLUSIVE OPINION BASED ON INSIDE KNOWLEDGE
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 JUNE 2016 AT 12:45PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is our popular feature where our very well placed source writes about the club using inside knowledge on what he would do in the current situation. This source is extremely well verified so what he says is based around a lot of knowledge of current events.
Hello again. If I owned West Ham at the moment….. I would think it is important we sign a striker. In my last column we went through lots of possible options, but I personally have a feeling that this may be Vincent Janssen who I wrote about previously. He is 21 years-old and very strong on the ball. The reason I say this is because I can't see it being anyone else. I feel Lacezette is slowly becoming out of control and have a gut feeling that he does not want to join us, as I feel more would have happened if he was keen on the move. Also, Lyon do not have to sell as they are a Champions League club next season and of course have more funds. I feel this is the same with lots of other strikers, as it has all gone very quiet, which in a way I don't mind too much as lots of strikers we were linked with were far from value for money and I was not convinced that they would come and do the job of a 20 goal a season striker. However, two players I would welcome with open arms alongside Janssen, would be Bacca and Giroud. Of course we cannot afford all three, but I think any of these would come and do a great job and all have a proven record of scoring. I'm going to let the board work their magic and of course I have full faith in them to get it right.
I'm sure West Ham are looking for more than just a striker this summer. Tore has dropped a massive hint and I think he would bring good competition to the squad. I hope we don't pay over the odds, but it is clear to see that Bilic really rates him. If we did get him, the squad would have some real class on the wing. Bilic had also dropped hints about Hutchinson, who if I'm totally honest with you I would be disappointed to see, as he is 33 years-old and I feel we can get better. If he does come in I believe this may be the end of Obiang at West Ham, which I would hate to see as I think he is something special and a great passer of the ball, he has just struggled to get a chance. One other reason for us being linked with Hutchinson may be if Obiang wants to leave due to the lack of game time. I would prefer to see someone like Cook from Leeds, a young talent who is English and could be worth big money one day, unlike Hutchinson, on whom we would write our money off as no one is going to buy a 34 year old from us!
I do think it was the right decision to let our loan players go and I think most people would agree with me. Song was way past his sell-by date and I also hear stories about how he may have caused trouble in the team, which is something that has no place. I thought Moses was too in and out and I can't see him ever getting into that Chelsea team. Emenike showed some touches of class, but feel we can get much better. Other players that have left are Joey O'Brien and Lee, again two players who I felt should have been let go. Lee had more than a chance and struggled on loan, but I am gutted he couldn't follow in his dad's footsteps. Joey is someone that two years ago would have been a good if not great back-up, but now we are a better team than that. However I wish them both well!! Anyway, I'd better stop or I am going to have nothing to write about in my next column, in which I will talk about whom I believe should leave the club and my views on any other news. If I did own West Ham, nothing would be different as I don't think the board have done anything wrong so far this summer and have signed real quality, which Jack spoke about in his column yesterday.
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Hendrie linked with Championship move
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 19th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's out-of-favour full back Stephen Hendrie has been linked with a season-long loan move to Championship side Blackburn Rovers. Hendrie, who failed to make a single first team appearance for the Hammers last season is being targeted by Rovers, who are keen to boost their squad ahead of the 2016/17 campaign. And the 21-year-old Scottish full back, whose only first team appearances last term came during a brief loan spell at Roots Hall with Southend United is being chased by Blackburn who most recently finished 15th in the Championship. West Ham signed the Scottish defender on a pre-contract agreement from Hamilton Academicals in January 2015, with Hendrie completing his move to London at the end of that season.
* In other transfer news, relegated Newcastle United are said to remain keen on signing West Ham's teenage star Reece Oxford on loan. The Magpies are understood to have contacted West Ham last week with view to signing the England under 19 international on loan for the duration of season, according to various reports.
* West Ham United are reported to be preparing one final bid to lure Alexandre Lacazette to England. Despite earlier reports suggesting that the Lyon striker harbours reservations regarding a move to London, the Hammers are said to be considering one final record-breaking bid, in the region of £37million, to persuade Lyon to part with their highly-rated goalscorer.
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Feghouli motivated by team spirit
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
Sofiane Feghouli believes his new team have the ability to challenge the Premier League's finest next season. Feghouli, who has agreed to join West Ham on a free transfer says he was hugely impressed by the team's fighting spirit and determination under Slaven Bilic last term, when they finished a respectable seventh. And he believes that West Ham can achieve even more in the 2016/17 campaign, which kicks off against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on 13 August. "This season, with three games to go, West Ham were close to fourth place," Feghouli told L'Equipe. "There was nothing in it. It's a balanced league. And if the club continues like that, with humility and a lot of ambition, it could lead to something really good. "There's a spectacular enthusiasm around this club at the moment and to be supported like that can only motivate you."
The 26-year-old, who will officially join the Hammers on 1 July recently explained why he opted to move to England when he had also received several offers from around Europe.
"After considering the options with my family, I think it became an option that instantly stood out from the others," he added. "The direction of the club, the new stadium, the squad, the manager and the opportunity to play in the Premier League made it an easy decision for me to join."
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West Ham linked with second Nigerian youngster
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are once again being linked with a move for a young Nigerian star, according to reports emanating form Africa. All Nigeria Soccer claimed last month that the Hammers were hot on the heels of midfielder Agor Chukwudi, suggesting that United had tabled a bid in the region of £200,000 for the rising star. And now the same source has claimed that West Ham have made an enquiry for youth international Isaac Success, a 20-year-old striker who has also been linked with fellow Premier League side Watford. Success moved to Europe in 2014 - without a work permit - when Udinese signed him for €400,000. Upon being granted a permit the Nigerian under 20 international immediately joined Grenada in Spain, where he featured for their reserve team. Since then Success has gone on to represent Granada's first team on several occasions with his form being noted by clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Valencia. However his his agent, Dominic Egbukwu, believes that the Hornets are in pole position to land the goalscorer. "We are negotiating his wages and hopefully an agreement will be reached soon," he told 90 Minutes.
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2015/16 in review: February & March
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
Join us as we take a look back at the 2015/16 season through the eyes of KUMB Editor Graeme Howlett, who penned a weekly column for the Echo newspaper throughout the campaign.
Today we look back at February and March in part seven of our review...
22 February
West Ham were simply too good for Championship side Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Sunday afternoon as they eased their way through to the quarter finals of the FA Cup for the first time since 2011.
A brace apiece from Dimitri Payet and new signing Emmanuel Emenike - combined with a Vic Moses strike that cancelled out Ben Marshall's early opener (NB. another slow start from the Hammers) - sent West Ham through to a potential last eight encounter with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
League One Shrewsbury, who face Man U in the last of the eight fifth round fixtures tonight (Monday) will no doubt have something to say about that - and who's to say the League One side won't be able to overcome a distinctly lacklustre Mancunian outfit?
But even if they fail, West Ham should have little to fear about facing Louis Van Gaal's expensively-assembled, ragtag gang of misfits who have flattered to deceive for much of the campaign and have been unable to beat United in either of their last two meetings.
Indeed, should they continue to play as they did on Sunday, the Hammers should fear nobody. The gulf in class between Bilic's side and Paul Lambert's Championship strugglers was vast and clearly evident and, bar Marshall's early effort, which caught Darren Randolph unsighted, this really was a case of men against boys.
Spurred on by more than 7,000 travelling supporters, who had made the 250-mile trip from London to the North West, West Ham scored five, had two efforts disallowed for offside and hit the post. Had they scored ten, Rovers fans would have had little cause for complaint.
At the heart of almost everything good that came from West Ham was Dimitri Payet, who is clearly revelling in his role as the club's poster boy.
Happy with his new contract and adored by the fans, the 28-year-old midfielder scored another wonderful first half free kick before wrapping up the game with a virtuoso effort that involved a fifty-yard run and the beating of several opponents, whom he left trailing in his wake.
It would have been a perfect day for West Ham had Cheik Kouyate not been sent off midway through the second half after he was deemed to have denied a goalscoring opportunity by referee Jon Moss, thus earning a one-match suspension.
However West Ham believe they have a good chance of overturning the decision upon appeal because Kouyate's (minimal) contact with Adam Henley was clearly accidental and the striker had already lost control of the ball, which was racing away towards 'keeper Darren Randolph, before contact was made.
28 February
The press room at the Boleyn Ground was unusually busy on Saturday afternoon as the media assembled to witness former manager Sam Allardyce's return to the East End.
However those journalists who were present expecting to report on 'Big Sam's savaging by ungrateful West Ham supporters' were to be left disappointed. Not a single boo or jeer - nor any kind of negative chant, for that matter - was aimed at Slaven Bilic's predecessor as the Hammers secured three more vital Premier League points against Allardyce's new club, Sunderland.
Instead, supporters used the occasion to mark their appreciation of Bilic's regime by chanting HIS name on numerous occasions times during the match - a gesture that was rarely if ever offered to the abrasive Allardyce. (Excepting perhaps the 2012 play-off final when fans adapted ad hoc the chorus of Coldplay's 'Paradise' to 'Alla, Alla, Alladyce'!)
West Ham - who with Bilic's guidance have been transformed into genuine contenders for a European spot - struggled to get out of second gear against their relegation-threatened opponents but still managed to grab a win thanks to Michail Antonio's excellent first half strike, his fifth since joining West Ham back in September.
And although they were on the backfoot for much of the second period, Bilic's side did just about enough to keep the Black Cats at bay - although it should be noted that West Ham also hit the woodwork twice (via Mark Noble and Andy Carroll efforts) and had a very decent penalty appeal ignored by referee Mike Dean.
Still, there was something quite ironic about winning this particular fixture by one goal to nil, with a backs-to-the-wall ending; it could be said that Bilic simply out-Allardyce'd Sam Allardyce!
The win takes West Ham back above Southampton and Manchester United into fifth spot in the Premier League. And it's to the latter that the Hammers will return for a second time this season for the quarter finals of the FA Cup, the draw for which was made last Sunday following West Ham's 5-1 fifth round demolition of Blackburn.
Allocated just shy of 10,000 tickets, West Ham sold their entire quota for next month's tie at Old Trafford within 24 hours. Fans, thousands of whom were left ticketless and disappointed genuinely believe that Bilic's team have a genuine chance of reaching the semi finals this year - despite being granted what would traditionally be perceived as one of the toughest away draws.
Additionally, West Ham's FA Cup pedigree against the Red Devils is impressive having beaten them at the fifth round (1986) and semi final (1964) stages previously. And who can forget Paolo Di Canio scoring a 76th-minute, fourth round winner at Old Trafford in January 2001 as goalkeeper Fabien Barthez hailed an imaginary taxi?
6 March
Last November a dreadful challenge by Everton's James McCarthy sidelined West Ham's Dimitri Payet for the remainder of 2015.
So it was poetic justice when the brilliant Frenchman popped up inside the Toffees' six-yard box during Saturday's return meeting between the two clubs to score the winning goal, as West Ham recorded their first win on the Blue side of Stanley Park since December 2005.
And what an incredible win it was for Slaven Bilic's side, who were two goals behind with less than fifteen minutes of normal time remaining before staging a remarkable comeback to steal all three points, courtesy of Payet's last-minute winner.
Having fallen behind to strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon, Adrian made a brilliant save from a (Lukaku) penalty to prevent West Ham from going 3-0 down - at which point the travelling fans must have been wondering whether the early start had been worth it!
However their patience and endeavour was ultimately rewarded as West Ham staged an epic comeback. Michail Antonio, prolific of late scored United's first on 78 minutes, the returning Diafra Sakho levelled the game three minutes later - and Payet – who else? - grabbed the winner, just as added-on time commenced.
The victory - West Ham's third in a week, following the wins against Sunderland and Tottenham - lifted Bilic's side back above Manchester United into fourth place in the Premier League, thus keeping alive the Irons' hopes of ending what is already a memorable campaign in a European position.
But which competition that will be in remains to be seen, with the Hammers now presenting a very real threat to those clubs hoping to finish in the top four and qualify for next season's Champions League.
Just three points separate West Ham and second-placed Arsenal, who drew at Spurs on Saturday and whilst Bilic won't dare speak of it, a spot in Europe's premier competition is certainly within reach. Unlikely still - but who thought Leicester City would be title favourites in March!?
However all thoughts of Premier League success will be set aside for the next week or so as attention returns to the FA Cup, where a tantalising quarter final tie at Old Trafford awaits.
West Ham have enjoyed mixed FA Cup fortunes against Manchester United in recent seasons. Few present on the day will forget Paolo Di Canio's winning goal in a 2001, fourth round meeting; few who witnessed the Gary Breen-inspired 6-0 defeat two years later will wish to remember it!
More recently, in a 2013 third round tie, the Hammers were seconds away from securing a 2-1 win at the Boleyn Ground when Robin Van Persie grabbed a last-minute equaliser, taking the tie back to Old Trafford for a replay - which the hosts won 1-0.
But this is a very different West Ham team right now - and one that has every chance of turning the tables and securing a place in this year's FA Cup semi finals.
20 March
By rights, West Ham United should be looking forward to an FA Cup semi final whilst peering down at the rest of the Premier League from a lofty fourth place.
And that would indeed have been the case had referees Martin Atkinson and Bobby Madley made the correct calls at Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge respectively, in the Irons' two most recent outings.
The weekend before last, West Ham were denied an FA Cup semi final spot - for now - when Atkinson deemed a Man Utd equaliser to be within the laws of the game, despite Bastian Schweinsteiger clearly bundling 'keeper Darren Randolph into the net as Anthony Martial prepared to shoot.
And having allowed Man United's dodgy 84th-minute equaliser to stand - a goal that forced a replay at the Boleyn Ground - Atkinson infuriated West Ham further by ruling out what appeared to be a perfectly legitimate, last=gasp strike by Michail Antonio for offside.
Fast forward seven days and West Ham, leading Chelsea 1-0 in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge concede a free kick on the edge of the penalty area in the closing stages of the first half.
United defenders remonstrate with official Madley as behind him and unseen, Cesc Fabregas moves the ball a yard or two further away from goal in order to gain a better angle for a shot meaning West Ham's 'wall' is now 12-13 yards from where the kick will be taken.
But their protests are ignored as the Spanish midfielder drops the ball over the wall and into Adrian's top right corner to level the scores.
Fast forward another 45 minutes or so and West Ham, having restored their lead through substitute Andy Carroll and therefore set to rise above Man City into fourth place in the Premier League are punished yet again by a terrible call from Madley.
The Wakefield-born referee decides to award Chelsea a 90th-minute penalty despite the offending tackle by Antonio on Ruben Loftus-Cheek - if it was even a foul at all (video evidence suggests otherwise) - having occurred outside the penalty box. All of which took place just yards from where the official was placed. Fabregas steps up again to score from the spot and West Ham lose two vital Premier League points.
Last season a long-running thread on the KUMB Forum put to bed the common misconception that "these things even themselves out over the course of the season".
The evidence collected during the course of the 2015/16 campaign suggested this simply wasn't true, and once again West Ham - who have now gone some four seasons without being awarded a penalty away from home - have been left feeling wronged after facing one of the nation's elite clubs.
So instrumental have those decisions been in the last two games that even Slaven Bilic, one of the managers least likely to resort to blaming officials for his team's misfortunes decreed recent examples such as those above as "unacceptable".
The irony of all that is that Bilic may well get fined by the Premier League for telling it how it is - whereas the substandard Atkinson and Madley are unlikely to face any action from the PGMOL, the unaccountable and untouchable quango who control the appointment of match day referees.
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Is Chris Smalling on his way to West Ham? Slaven Bilic lavishes praise on England and Man United centre-back
20:48, 20 JUN 2016 UPDATED 20:48, 20 JUN 2016
BY THOMAS BRISTOW
The Hammers boss may have said one compliment too many
The Mirror
We've already been made aware of how brilliant Slaven Bilic is as a pundit for ITV, but has the West Ham boss just given away his summer transfer plans? In the video above the Croatian is asked for his opinion on England and Manchester United centre-back, Chris Smalling.
How does he respond? With a flow of compliments so strong it would make even the most modest man blush. He said Smalling's great on the ball, can pass well, is very vocal, a leader, great in the air, very quick - blimey anything else? - oh, and he's England's best. His comments were so grand it got Lee Dixon suggesting that Bilic wants to sign Smalling. Everyone of course laughs, except for the West Ham boss, who looks as though his secret transfer plans have been discovered.
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Sullivan admits how life will get better for him
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 20, 2016 in News
C and H
David Sullivan has admitted life will improve for him once he has signed a top class striker. The co chairman – despite having a lot of cash to spend – and has regularly admitted it but as yet has failed to get his man. Speaking to the official site the boss said: "Once we sign a top striker I will feel a lot better and that is the main position we need.
Our top goalscorer last season scored 12 goals and if someone had scored 20 we would have been in a different position. We all saw what Leicester did last season and we start the campaign with the aim of winning the Premier League. Anyone who says it can't be done only has to look at what Leicester achieved and it can be done. It is unlikely but that has to be our aim, along with the FA Cup and Capital One Cup. We have three trophies and we want to win all of them. We are also in Europe and we want to do well in that as well."
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Gold's calm response to ticket price fury
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 20, 2016 in News
C and H
Quite why Twitter brings out the worst in people with language to match is one of the most disturbing mysteries of the 21st century. Disagreeing – it seems – is not sufficient for many. There simply have to be obscenities accompanied by accusation and sometimes near hatred. One person who appears to have learned how to handle it is David Gold – the focus for much of that stuff down the years and who has the ability to come back with a calm one liner. Such is the case this morning after a furious outburst by one of his followers on the aforementioned social network operation.
He tweeted to Gold: "I've seen the last tickets for west ham juve game are priced at £166 quid f…..g ludicrous @davidgold
The co chairman calmly responded: The first tickets were available at £20."
It is actually quite simple to ask a question – as of course many do – without the fury that too often goes with it and it's a muh better way of leading life!
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Tore deal hits snag
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Besiktas Chairman, Fikret Orman is said to be furious that West Ham has asked for a season loan deal for Gökhan Töre with an option to buy. A source close to Besiktas told Claret and Hugh "Bilic (has) made a mistake. Our president (has) gone crazy. Bilic wanted to loan Töre" It is claimed that David Sullivan isn't entirely convinced that Tore is worth the £13m Besiktas want for him and as a compromise West Ham would prefer to loan Tore for a season in a try before you buy agreement similar to the Lanzini deal last season. Tore admits he wants to play for West Ham and reunite with his former manager, last week he said "I have a contract until 2019 with Besiktas. But I completed my mission here. If you get my fee, I want to play at West Ham" We understand that a £2.3m bid for Atiba Hutchinson was also rejected by the Besiktas chairman for being far too low.
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Ibe images in West Ham top discredited
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham IbeChairman's son, Jack Sullivan has discredited rumours about Liverpool winger joining West Ham saying on twitter "The ibe rumours are not true! We are not signing him."
Ibe became a surprise bookies 5/2 favourite over the weekend with Bookmakers Paddy Power after images of Ibe circulated around the Internet of him in a West Ham top. It now appears these images are most likely fake. The 20-year-old was left out of the Liverpool squad towards the end of the season, which led him to subsequently removed all references to the club from his Twitter profile. His account on the social network has otherwise been dormant for just under a year. Ibe's career has stuttered under Jurgen Klopp with the talented winger completing just four Premier League fixtures since his arrival in October 2015. He came up through the Charlton Athletic and Wycombe Wanderers youth setups until he signed a pre-contract with Liverpool in 2011.
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DS and that £25 million revelation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
It's impossible to be critical of David Sullivan after last season's incredible success in the summer transfer market. By common consent across the whole of the fan base, we made a series of brilliant signings – not one of which failed to do the business whenever they were called upon. Every one of them surpassed all expecations. So far this term we have made a couple of free signings and the co chairman has made it clear on the official site he will feel better when he has the much sought after striker on board. We at Claret and Hugh have never made any secret of the fact that we are big fans of David's. He has never been anything other than courteous and helpful when we have requested interviews and it is refreshing to have such an accessible man at the helm. He is not one to have regrets or look backwards but maybe he is sufering a little in negotiations for that striker after declaring very early on the amount of money he was ready to spend on a front man. Alexandre Lacazette's price is now being quoted at £40 million and maybe clubs in the Hammers market place believe we have far more than the £25 million set aside. I am convinced will we get a top striker but I felt at the time it was untypical of DS to let the £25 million cat put of the bag. Onwards and upwards and like DS we too look forward to seeing a photo of a top striker holding a claret and blue scarf over his head on the official website!
COYI
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JUVENTUS BATTLE WEST HAM FOR BATSHUAYI, NKOUDOU
DANIEL EMERY ReadWestHam
According to Sport24, Juventus are readying moves for Michy Batshuayi and Georges-Kévin Nkoudou this summer, both thought to be targets for West Ham. The report says that Juventus are ready to spend around £45m on the Marseille pair as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Serie A season. With Alvaro Morata and Simone Zaza both potentially off to pastures new, Juventus are in the market for a striker and Batshuayi fits the bill. The 26-year-old has scored 26 Ligue 1 goals in two seasons for Marseille, which has attracted interest from a number of clubs, including West Ham. Nkoudou is also thought to be a summer target for Slaven Bilic, but Juventus are very keen on him too. The 21-year-old winger played 38 games last season, scoring five and setting up ten. Both players would have been fantastic additions for West Ham, but it seems as though Juventus are a pace ahead in the race.
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LAZIO TABLE €10M BID FOR WEST HAM TARGET ÖZYAKUP
THOMAS BORE readWestHam
Lazio have stolen a march on West Ham in the race for Oguzhan Özyakup by tabling a €10million bid to Besiktas, according to Turkish source Spor Haberleri. Özyakup currently plies his trade in Turkey for Besiktas and has been heavily linked with a summer move away from the club, much to the annoyance of Besiktas' general secretary Ahmed Ürkmezgil. Ahmed, as quoted by Sondakika, recently said: "Oguzhan and (fellow West Ham target) Atiba (Hutchinson) are not considered for sale. (They) will not transfer. Besiktas president Fikret Orman has today echoed Ürkmezgil's and talked down a potential move for Özyakup to Lazio. He was quoted by Spor Haberleri saying: "(None of the) Besiktas team will not be leaving for a middle-class team like Lazio, they would go to top teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United." Judging by their comments, Lazio's €10million bid will be rejected but the transfer saga will not stop here. According to Fanatik, Özyakup is a priority target for West Ham and a move for the 23-year-old could materialise in the coming days following Lazio's offer. Slaven Bilic is believed to be a huge fan of Ozyakup, a man he said was the most talented footballer in Turkey while covering their game against Croatia for ITV, as well as branding him the 'new Mesut Ozil', according to the Express.
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LYON PREPARING FOR LACAZETTE EXIT
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Lyon are resigned to losing striker Alexandre Lacazette this summer as they make preparations to sign his possible replacement ahead of the news amid interest from West Ham and Paris Saint-Germain. According to French source mercato365, Lyon are closing in on a move for SC Caen striker Anthony Delort as a replacement for Lacazette. The former Wigan striker scored 12 Ligue 1 goals last season and would cost just €12m. That is just a snippet of the price-tag on Lacazette's shoulders as Lyon are looking for nearer €50m, which equates to roughly £40m. The Hammers have already seen a £32m bid turned down for the 24-year-old this month but will return with an improved offer. It's rumoured that the offer will be in the region of £37m plus bonuses which would bring the total fee nearer the £40m asking-price. Whether that would be enough to prize the French international away from Lyon remains to be seen. Lacazette netted 21 goals in Ligue 1 last season – his third-successive season scoring 20+ league goals, making him the ideal target for the Hammers who have stated themselves they're looking for a '20 goal a season striker'. Club president Michel-Jean Aulas has been firm on his stance regarding Lacazette but has admitted that he could be helpless if the striker made his intentions clear on a possible move to Paris Saint-Germain. If PSG must have Alexander (Lacazette), I do not say no. If he wishes to join them, I say 'Why not'. The Frenchman remains West Ham's number one transfer target this summer and they will continue to do all they can to convince him to make the move to East London.
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WEST HAM AND SPORTING CHASE NIGERIAN TEENAGER AGOR
THOMAS BORE DeludedMag
ReadWestHam
Sporting Lisbon will go head-to-head with West Ham for teenage sensation Chukwudi Agor, Nigerian source Owngoalnigeria has revealed. Agor is just 17-years-old and currently plies his trade for the ASJ Academy in Nigeria. Former Lisbon player and 27-time Nigeria international, Emmanuel Amunike recommended Agor to Sporting, having watched him at the academy. While West Ham had sent scouts to track Chukwudi's progress. There has been no mention of a transfer fee, though it will be minimal compared to the €40million bid West Ham tabled for French striker Alexandre Lacazette of Lyon last week. Should either club reach an agreement for Agor, the Nigeria under-20 international will be unable to officially transfer until he turns 18 in November. Lisbon fans are clearly excited by the prospect of signing Agor, with one fan stating: "It would be great to hire the young midfielder Chukwudi Agor, the future of Nigerian and world football. Come cheap and will be an ace in a short time. This kid is a young promise of Nigeria Another suggested, rather laughably, that West Ham have 'run out of money' and would, therefore, let Sporting win the race for the teenager's signature.
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EMMAUEL EMENIKE SPEAKS OUT ON TIME AT WEST HAM
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Former West Ham strike Emmanuel Emenike has spoken about his time at the club and what the future holds following the end of his loan spell from Fenerbahce. The Hammers signed the Nigerian international on loan in January until the end of the season, a deal which included an option to make the move permanent this summer if the club wished. Slaven Bilic ultimately declined the option to sign the striker he had watched score many goals in the Turkish Super Lig against his Besiktas side before he became West Ham manager in the summer of 2015.
It was injuries to Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia which forced the club to make a move for Emenike but the former Spartak Moscow attacker failed to impress and was relegated to the fourth-choice option and scored just two goals in 16 appearances for the club – both in a 5-1 rout over Blackburn in the FA Cup. Speaking to Haber Turk, the 29-year-old believes his time in East London was an important experience for him and makes him remember what he had at Fenerbahce.
West Ham was a very important experience for me. There are many things I have learned. I was back on my own at Fenerbahce. But sometimes we had bad periods. Now I see that I made some mistakes and can criticise myself. Now I think it's my debt payment time. When you leave the value of Fenerbahce you understand better, the ambience is great … even in European club is not possible to find such an environment. Emenike failed to show the goalscoring prowess the Hammers are looking for as they continue their upward surge in the Premier League.
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New contract will NOT stop Dimitri Payet leaving West Ham this summer, claims Ray Parlour
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Monday, June 20, 2016
Ray Parlour has warned West Ham that Dimitri Payet's 'long-term' contract will not stop him leaving the club this summer if the right team comes along. France sensation Payet has been one of the stars of Euro 2016 so far with his match-winning performances for the unbeaten tournament hosts. But his stunning displays might have Hammers chiefs worried ahead of the summer transfer window, with top sides now fully aware of his quality and set-piece prowess. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea have already been linked with big-money moves for the 29-year-old. Payet seemed to commit his long-term future to West Ham by penning a new contract which runs until 2021 back in February. But former Arsenal and England midfielder Parlour insisted that will matter little this summer if the player is tempted by a big move. Speaking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, Parlour said: "The summer transfer window, when the Euros finishes, is going to be amazing. It's going to be really hectic. "Everyone will be targeting players and a lot of managers will be keeping a close eye on the Euros. "Dimitri Payet…what a player! He's lit up the Euros so far. He's been outstanding. "He had a great season at West Ham, and they will be delighted that he signed a new contract. "But then again we know that contracts don't really matter these days. If a player wants to leave, it's very hard to keep him. "But he might want to stay there. He might be looking forward to that new stadium and working with Slaven Bilic, who has been excellent for the club."
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ANTHONY MODESTE CLOSE TO JOINING WEST HAM UNITED
June 20, 2016 Prashanth Nair
sporquo.com
Anthony Modeste has already reached an agreement with West Ham united as per Le10Sport. The Hammers are keen to add a striker to their squad this summer and have been linked with a move for several strikers across Europe.He will be signed as a replacement for Diafra Sakho as he is reportedly going to Sunderland since he failed to nail down a starting place in Slaven Bilic led side. The Premier League club's interest in Modeste is 'serious' and they have already made contact with the player's representatives. Die Welt is just one of many sources that carry quotes from his current club FC Koln's CEO Alexander Wehrle in which he makes it clear the French striker is set to remain at the club for the upcoming Bundesliga campaign: "The clause was not validly withdrawn. We assume that Anthony Modeste plays in the upcoming season with us – and we wish him well."
Anthony Modeste had a famously poor loan spell at Blackburn Rovers earlier in his career. It was then reported by Geissblog.Koeln that Modeste wanted the move to West Ham and he may consider this as one of his last move to a big club. Anthony Modeste has come good since moving to German football, originally with Hoffenheim, but now with Koln. He scored an impressive 18 goals in 36 appearances for Koln last season and West Ham are looking for new strikers – with the futures of Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia currently unclear. West Hame have already seen a big money big rejected for Lyon forward Alexandre Lacazette, while Marseille hit man Michy Batshuayi is another who has been linked. And it appears another they are keen on is Cologne striker Anthony Modeste, with Le10Sport reporting that they have already made initial contact with the player's entourage about a potential move.However, they could face competition from Chinese side Beijing Guoan, who are reportedly close to making offer for the Frenchman.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Once we sign a top striker I will feel a lot better and that is the main position we need. Our top goalscorer last season scored 12 goals and if someone had scored 20 we would have been in a different position. We all saw what Leicester did last season and we start the campaign with the aim of winning the Premier League. Anyone who says it can't be done only has to look at what Leicester achieved and it can be done. It is unlikely but that has to be our aim, along with the FA Cup and Capital One Cup. We have three trophies and we want to win all of them. We are also in Europe and we want to do well in that as well. It is a fascinating year next season because people will be wondering whether the old order be re-established or will it be broken forever? We will all find out next year. We are all excited about our big move into the new Stadium. The facilities will be so much better and I hope the atmosphere will be just as good there. With the next extended roof it brings in people closer together. Fans who attended the Rugby World Cup said it was very good so I am hoping everyone will be very pleased. The transport links for people getting there are so much better than the Boleyn Ground. Hopefully it will be a lot better for everyone. It is a modern stadium and it will be a better match-day experience in every way. The TV screens are huge and they will see the Club is moving forward. I think it is fantastic that Juventus will be our major first game at the new Stadium. We will have an opening ceremony and it will be a very exciting Sunday at the start of August. We will have a capacity crowd. Juventus are a very good side and have a formidable record in Serie A last season. They have won the title five-years in a row and it will be a tough game for our players.
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Dimi - 'I should have buried it'
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet says she 'should have buried' his sensational volley in France's goalless UEFA Euro 2016 draw with Switzerland on Sunday. The West Ham United star caught the eye yet again in Lille, where he was sent on as a second-half substitute after being rested from the starting XI by coach Didier Deschamps. Despite only being on the pitch for half-an-hour, Payet picked up where he left off in goalscoring appearances against Romania and Albania, capping his cameo by slamming Moussa Sissoko's deep cross against the underside of Yann Sommer's crossbar. While most players would have been pleased to have come so close to completing such an outrageous piece of skill, the Hammers hero was hard on himself in self-analysis, claiming he should have scored in his third consecutive Euro 2016 match.
"On my chance, Moussa Sissoko did superbly along the right wing and he put in a good ball for me," Payet recalled in speaking to L'Equipe. "I should have buried it in the back of the net."
Despite Payet's unfortunate miss, France topped Group A and now have a week to prepare for their round of 16 fixture, which will see them take on the third-place finisher in Group C, D or E – potentially Northern Ireland or Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland – in Lyon next Sunday afternoon at 2pm BST. With a week to prepare for that match, Payet says France need to continue playing the way they did in the first half against the Swiss, when central midfielder Paul Pogba took the game by the scruff of the neck and twice hit the woodwork himself with long-range efforts. "We need to keep in mind how we played during the first half," Payet confirmed. "We played freely and were getting stronger and stronger. In the first half we played well. Then, in the second half, both teams took their foot off the pedal so that they wouldn't concede. "We have now got a week to work hard ahead of our next game"
?Elsewhere at Euro 2016, James Collins will hope to make his first appearance of the finals when Wales take on Russia in Toulouse on Monday evening at 8pm BST. Victory for the Welsh would take them through to the knockout stages for the second time in their history.
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Crossbar denies Dimi three out of three
WHUFC.com
West Ham United star Dimitri Payet was just the width of the crossbar away from making it three goals in three UEFA Euro 2016 appearances on Sunday evening. The Hammer of the Year emerged from the substitutes' bench to produce an eye-catching late cameo, hitting the underside of the bar with a sumptuous side foot volley as France were held from a goalless draw by Switzerland.
The result meant the French top Group A ahead of the Swiss, but they could have made it a perfect nine points from nine had Payet's wonderful effort from Mousa Sissoko's cross dipped a little more after flying past goalkeeper Yann Sommer. The West Ham man was given a hero's welcome on his return to Lille, where he spent two successful seasons playing alongside the likes of Eden Hazard and Joe Cole between 2011 and 2013. His introduction lifted a competitive but largely uneventful game previously only lit up by two shots from Paul Pogba which also hit Sommer's woodwork – the first after a handling error from the Switzerland stopper. However, it was Payet's volley at the end of a powerful 60-yard run from Newcastle United's Sissoko which was the undoubted highlight – drawing widespread acclaim on social media.
Didier Deschamps' side will have a week to prepare for their round of 16 fixture, which will see them take on the third-place finisher in Group C, D or E – potentially Northern Ireland or Darren Randolph's Republic of Ireland – in Lyon next Sunday afternoon at 2pm BST.
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
Both Slaven Bilic and Joint-Chairman David Sullivan have made it clear that the Club are looking to bring in a top quality striker who can score 20 goals a season. As a result there has been continued speculation since the season ended on which players will be brought into the squad. Michy Batshuayi, Alexandre Lacazette, Christian Benteke, Wilfried Bony are just a few of the big names that have been linked with a move to the east London Club. It is not just arrivals that have been talked about, but possible departures as well.
There have been reports over the summer linking Diafra Sakho with a move away from the Hammers with former manager Sam Allardyce reported to be interested in signing the Senegal forward. Stories emerged last week that West Ham could even entertain a swap deal involving Sakho and West Brom Saido Berahino. But my sources have told me that the Club are not interested in that move taking place.
There has also been a lot of speculation surrounding the future of James Tomkins who appeared to slip down the pecking order following the successful partnership between Winston Reid and Angelo Ogbonna at the heart of the Hammers defence. Reports have indicated that Sunderland, Crystal Palace, West Brom and Stoke are interested in making a move for the 27-year-old who joined West Ham as a schoolboy back in 1996 and is a graduate of the club's academy. With the Club preparing for another busy season and the potential of playing in the Europa League group stages, there will be a number of games for players to stake their claim for a first-team place. Without naming individuals it is my understanding that some of the fringe players in the squad could leave during the summer if the right offer comes in. I have been told that the manager does not want unhappy players in the dressing room and the same rule applies to any of the fringe players who could be seeking a move elsewhere during the summer.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
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Reid - Dimitri has been brilliant
WHUFC.com
West Ham defender Winston Reid has been keeping an eye on his Hammers teammates who are in action at UEFA Euro 2016 while enjoying a holiday prior to the start of the Club's pre-season training. The 27-year-old, who bagged the famous winner against Manchester United in the Boleyn Ground's final game last season, has been particularly impressed with French star Dimitri Payet in France, who has stolen the show for the hosts so far in the tournament. After bagging the late screamer that saw his side beat Romania in the competition's opener, Payet followed the stunner up with Les Bleus' second in the 2-0 victory over Albania, before smashing against the crossbar in Didier Deschamps' side's final group match against Switzerland. And Reid, speaking to New Zealand-based station Radio Live, has not been surprised with the midfielder's terrific performances. "I saw the opening game and he was really, really good in that game and came up with a brilliant goal at the end," he said. "I didn't see the second game, but I heard he got another goal and played a part in France's other goal. "He's had an unbelievable twelve months and hopefully he can carry on with that form. "Dimi is small and quick and technical whereas I am almost the complete opposite, so there are not a lot of similarities between us!"
The Hammers travel to the USA for their pre-season tour at the beginning of July, and will take on both the Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders as well as North American Soccer League outfit Carolina RailHawks. Before the trip however, Reid has been enjoying a well-earned break abroad with his family. "I'm in Mexico with my family [at the moment]," he continued. "We start back up in a couple of weeks' time so I'm just getting away and spending some time with them. "The nicest thing I've been able to do is to travel, as I like to get around and see places with my family. Having kids, it's nice to be able to show them different places of the world and allow them to get experiences."
While many of Reid's teammates have been representing their countries this summer, the New Zealand international was not included in the All Whites' squad for their Oceania Football Confederation Nations Cup campaign due to a stop-start season with injuries. However he was pleased to see his national side win the competition earlier this month after they defeated Papua New Guinea on penalties in the final to qualify for the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. "You have to adapt to any sort of environment you are playing in and it's difficult playing in the Pacific islands, and you have to get the best out of the group," Reid explained. "At the end of the day, the most important thing was the qualify for the FIFA Confederations Cup. "Time flies [for a national team], as it seems like yesterday when I was scoring that goal in South Africa [against Slovakia in the 2010 FIFA World Cup]. It was a good time we had out there."
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Samuelsen's happy anniversary
WHUFC.com
Exactly a year ago, a young winger named Martin Samuelsen joined West Ham United.
At the time, West Ham fans knew little more about the Norwegian than the fact that he had spent time with Manchester City's Academy and scored hundreds of goals for hometown club Vard Haugesund as a schoolboy.
Twelve months later and every Hammer knows Samuelsen's name after the tall, skilful wideman enjoyed an eye-catching debut season for club and country.
The 19-year-old started his West Ham career by scoring on his debut in a pre-season game at Peterborough United, before marking his competitive bow with a performance full of tricks and turns against Birkirkara in the UEFA Europa League.
Next up came a productive loan spell with Peterborough, where he scored a sensational goal against Sheffield United before producing a Man of the Match display in an FA Cup fourth-round replay defeat by Premier League West Bromwich Albion.
Samuelsen's season was far from over, as he returned to east London to help the Development Squad to win the U21 Premier League Cup, before earning his first senior call-up to the Norway national team in May – making his debut against Iceland on 1 June.
I obviously hope to get a place in the Premier League squad, but know I have to train well. I have to really impress in the summer, but nothing is impossible
So, how does the talented teenager reflect on his first year as a Hammer?
"I started by scoring a goal on my debut at West Ham, and then I got to play in front of a packed Upton Park," he started. "I've been in the Europa League and it has been a great season. I did well in Peterborough and things have definitely moved forward."
What about a single highlight among so many memorable moments?
"It was playing against Premier League team West Brom in the FA Cup," he revealed. "It's the one I remember best and it was my breakthrough. It was a great experience and important for the future. I did finally show what I can do and it was the opinion in both Norway and England.
"I got just got to shown what is inside me and it was great to meet players like Darren Fletcher."
Samuelsen turned 19 as recently as April, and he is intelligent and aware enough to know that a first-team breakthrough at West Ham will come about only through more hard work and development of his game.
However, with players away on international duty, the Norwegian is set to join Slaven Bilic's first-team squad on their pre-season tour to the United States.
There, the youngster will hope to catch the manager's eye yet again and state his case for a place in the manager's squad when the UEFA Europa League campaign kicks-off in late July – and when the 2016/17 Premier League season gets under way on 13 August.
"I've talked a little with Slaven Bilic and he was impressed with what he saw," said Samuelsen. "I'll be with West Ham in pre-season, but it's impossible to know what happens.
"I obviously hope to get a place in the Premier League squad, but know I have to train well. I have to really impress in the summer, but nothing is impossible."
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Bishop - The move has got to happen
WHUFC.com
Former West Ham captain Ian Bishop will never forget his memorable spell with the Hammers after he became a fans favourite during his eight-year spell in east London.
Bishop made 304 appearances and played his part in helping the Hammers gain promotion back into the Premier League.
As the Club prepare for a historic move this summer, Bishop says he will always remember the special atmosphere that was created by the West Ham fans inside the Boleyn Ground....
I was back at the Boleyn Ground for the final ever game against Manchester United and it was a night I will always remember.
It is obviously sad that we are having to leave the famous stadium and I bumped into some fans at Liverpool Street on the way to the game who said they didn't want to leave.
But the move has got to happen for the club to progress.
The atmosphere and the people that you have at the Boleyn Ground will never be forgotten.
Nobody liked coming here to play us and there was always that pressure. If you didn't perform they would let you know about it.
But when you get the fans on your side there is no better feeling.
I will never forget the famous old Chicken Run and the supporters who used to stand there.
The bad thing for me was having long hair and I was thinking anyone could have grabbed me if I was not having a good game!
Sometimes we would get a throw-in and I would pretend to do up my laces so I wouldn't have to take it! It was ferocious but that made for the atmosphere.
I don't remember losing many games under the lights and there is nowhere like West Ham under the lights.
I will never forget the FA Cup quarter final game against Everton and I was captain at the time.
There was also the second promotion year after I arrived here. We thought we had won the league, but finished second.
We had the champagne in the dressing room ready and to then go upstairs and see all the fans all over the pitch and around the stands -it was one of those moments where we did it for all those people.
We thought we had let them down but it wasn't the same on the pitch. To have that kind of following is incredible.
We are now preparing for a new era and things have to move on. We will always take these memories with us as we prepare for the move to the new Stadium.
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West Ham's 'Insider' questioned
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
A feature on West Ham United's website purporting to offer inside information on potential transfers has been criticised by a Scottish journalist. STV writer Grant Russell openly questioned the validity of a feature on whufc.com accredited to 'The Insider', an irregular column penned for the club's website by an unnamed individual who claims to offer fresh information on both incoming and outgoing transfers. Russell went on the offensive this afternoon when he referred the existence of an 'ITK' column on a Premier League member's website as "incredible".
Grant Russell @STVGrant
This is incredible from an official club website. https://twitter.com/whufc_official/status/744881122237087744 …
2:16 PM - 20 Jun 2016
2 2 Retweets 9 9 likes
"It feels like real inside info which doesn't sit well with me," he said, speaking via social media platform Twitter. "I think it's got great value potentially - but the 'sources' thing doesn't sit well."
In his (or her) latest column, 'The Insider' talks about a number of strikers who have been linked with a move to east London before suggesting that some non-first team players are likely to leave the club this season. Crucially however little of the information provided is new and instead sticks largely to commenting on speculation and/or links that have already been provided by other sources, such as KUMB.com.
Fraser McNab @frazzy_doo
@STVGrant very strange to finish with "views of the author and not necessarily West Ham." Especially on their official website.
2:19 PM - 20 Jun 2016
Retweets likes
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JACK SULLIVAN'S EXCLUSIVE COLUMN-NORDTVEIT AND FEGHOULI REJECTED OTHER TOP CLUBS!
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2016 AT 7:54PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Hello again, sorry I have not had a column for a while but this is due to my GCSE's, which I have now finished!!!! This is great news for you, as now I can start writing again.
As most of you know the transfer window is the time when my Twitter really comes alive! So far we have been the most active club in the league and in my opinion we have signed some real quality. Håvard Nordtveit is a great player and someone who will provide competition in the squad. He has turned down Champions League football next year to join West Ham and can play in a number of positions. However, I think he will mostly be in midfield and will replace Song! He has been fantastic in Germany this year and has a hell of a shot on him and could become a real star at West Ham!! We have also signed Feghouli on a free, once again picking us over lots of other clubs and he is looking forward to our project at West Ham. Feghouli has been incredible for Valencia in the past, his pace and skill is something that I know the fans will love and he is a really exciting, classy player. He has been linked with huge teams in the past and it has taken DS weeks to pull this deal off!
We have also signed two youth players, who I hope can break into the first team. Martinez and Quina are very well respected in the youth world and like Nordtveit and Feghouli, they are two very exciting players.
Also let's not forget that Lanzini is now our player and we all know what he can do! Our squad looks stronger and stronger and we are still far from done. I do not want to give too much away, but DS, Slav and Tony Henry are still working to pull off more signings and I'm sure by the end of the window our squad will be stronger than ever before!
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MAHINDRA(OLYMPIC)INSIDER'S EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 JUNE 2016 AT 8:58PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Been a while but here we go again, I have read the article titled 'If I owned West Ham United' and almost felt put off writing this, as it hinted that we would give up the pursuit of Alexandre Lacazette and focus on Vincent Janssen. I think the Dutch striker would be a good purchase for our club, but I was lead to believe differently regarding the Lyon attacker. At the end of last week Exwhuemployee hinted that today we would submit a bid of around £37m plus add ons and I had heard similar. So this website gets confusing, as there are 3 stories about Lacazette now and Ex's new article (to come at 10) may side with the mystery author and leave me on my own here. Going by Ex's previous article, the outcome is the same as my belief, that Alexandre would become a Hammer in this window even though the fee is a big one. This could impact other deals we had lined up, and Aulas (Lyon President) is a tough negotiator. However the plus for West Ham is they are watching the movements of Alvaro Morata who could move back to The Bernabeu, as clubs circle for the Juventus front man. Real Madrid have the option to buy him back, and this could allow Lyon to move for their former man, Karim Benzema, to replace Lacazette, should they decide to allow the Frenchman to move on. So for now, I still predict we will go as far as we can in pursuit of Lacazette and am quietly confident our chairman will get him – there is plenty of time left in the window and despite their deadline of the 1st of July, I just do not see us giving up just yet.
Crystal Palace have been linked with James Tomkins but I can see our Senegalese striker, Diafra Sakho, joining them. This is more from the Palace side of things and does not come direct from a source but is more Chinese whispers. They are hopeful that they will sign at least one striker for around the £10m mark this summer. It falls short of West Ham United's valuation but it is clear Bilic does not want players here that wish to leave and it looks more and more likely that Diafra falls into that category. Sunderland made an offer earlier on of £11m but with just £6m of it up front and the rest in a complicated structure so the £10m cash fee from Crystal Palace may provoke some thinking in the board room.
Lastly we look at our prodigy, Reece Oxford. It does look like Newcastle United's interest is firm as Benitez has a cleaning up job to do and has been given a tight control of transfers. This is unusual over the last few seasons but the club had to do all they could to keep him. Steven Taylor left this summer, plus Coloccini wishes to head back to Argentina so cover in central defence is required but Reece would be behind Lacselles and Mbemba in the pecking order. Reece wants more game time but personally I expect the club to wait until we know if we will be in the Europa League group stage or not. That does mean waiting until the 25th of August, hopefully we will be and Reece, and other youngsters, may have a big part to play next season if that is the case
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE'S EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER ROUND UP
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 JUNE 2016 AT 10:00PM
So like buses, I wait for three of our sites' ITKs to submit articles and having waited a while and two come at once. Both sources that wrote today are superb. "I owned West Ham" is an extremely well placed agent/media person with strong links in the club and the Mahindra (Olympic Insider) works for the club in a certain capacity and I am still waiting for the "Informer" to update us recently. It is great to have so many well placed people write for the site. Both of today's were given opposite news on Lacazette and whether he would join which is very interesting and shows the delicate situation of the deal. This is the first rumour I will clear up.
Rumour one: Have we bid again for Lacazette? I thought another bid would go in today but it appears that it hasn't. The club had "further discussions" with Lyon and are growing increasingly frustrated with the French club. Every time it looks like we are progressing with the deal Lyon change the goal posts. There has to be a point where we draw the line and say take it or leave it and that appears to be the position at the moment. I don't think the deal is over and I agree with the "Insider" that we will try again but at this moment it appears to be grinding to a halt. We also have to convince the player to join too once we agree a price. So there are many hurdles to get over at this point still.
Rumour two: Jordan Ibe is joining the club from Liverpool as he is pictured in a West Ham shirt: This is not true. Jack Sullivan confirmed this and the club have no knowledge of a bid. Those of you who have bought The West Ham Way fanzine will find out some details of a surprise target but I can confirm it isn't Ibe. The story behind him being in a West Ham shirt looks like he lost a dare to Reece Oxford and had to wear a West Ham shirt as a consequence.
Rumour three: Are we trying to loan Tore and buy Hutchinson? "If I owned West Ham" called this in his article where he said the club are getting concerned about the value for money that they are getting for these two players. Tore is Bilic's number one target and DS will always try and honour Bilic's requests however they are concerned at the pricing of Tore and a loan offer was suggested. It was more in hope then conviction but they club are exploring options to bring down the set transfer fee of Tore. They are also concerned that they may be charged over the odds for Hutchinson and have had a bid rejected for him. Expect these deals to have some movement soon.
Rumour four: Payet wants to join Madrid: I brought the interest of Madrid in my column exclusively over two weeks ago. It has to be said that Payet idolised Zidane when he was younger and that this would obviously be a major attraction (as if you need persuading to be interested in Real Madrid). Payet has also said this week he is happy at the club and at the moment he is concentrating on the Euros. The chairman are determined to keep hold of him no matter the price.
Rumour five: Various players to depart: As I have been saying in my columns for a long while now the club will listen to offers for a number of fringe players. Tomkins is considered one of those. There is a strong chance that he will be moving on very soon and bringing to an end a great career at the club. Obiang is another who may well move. He was unhappy at his game time last season. Sakho and Valencia also have interested in them and should leave.
Rumour six: Is the Mahindra deal finalised? No it is not. It is likely to be the deal but it is not confirmed as yet.
Rumour seven: Janssen is a target? I have reported this name myself and "If I owned West Ham" is very well placed on transfers. If he says we are interested then we must be. He has been highly linked to Spurs but as yet the deal has not been finalised to them.
Rumour eight: Do we want a right back? Early on in the window I said that we have priorities in other positions that remains the case.
Our West Ham fanzine will go on sale to purchase online tomorrow. Please buy it to get even more exclusive news.
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West Ham to make top six
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Darren Chalker
It will be upon us sooner rather than later, and I for one cannot wait to see how Slaven Bilic does in his second season at West Ham United with a higher percentage of the squad being 'his' players.
We have made early moves in the transfer market and, like last year, have signed players few of us have heard of. We used to call them "Sully specials", but it seems to be different now.
Where we finish season 2016/17 will probably be dictated by how well and how quickly we settle in to our new home at the Olympic Stadium. A good early run of fixtures is handy, because it's vital we get a first win there early doors.
What I'm really looking forward to though is seeing how the rest of the division will shape up. Last season – with Leicester City beating all and sundry to claim the title - shook the foundations of the Premier League.
So what will happen this season? No one can go out there now and blow everyone else out of the water spending-wise, because now most clubs have similar financial clout.
Chelsea have to perform a complete rebuild in my opinion and it's a job they really started two years ago and are struggling with. Manchester United are in pretty much the same boat as Chelsea, although in Jose Mourinho they do have a (new) manager that has vast experience of the Premier League.
Conversely, Manchester City for me are the team to beat. Pep Guardiola has done it in more than one national league and already possesses the basis of a Champions League winning squad.
Leicester City again? Who knows. It wouldn't surprise me if they were to finish in the top four again - but it also wouldn't surprise me in the slightest if they finished bottom four. Arsenal? Same old, same old as far as I'm concerned. Unless Arsene Wenger suddenly changes his ways, which he won't, they will carry on flattering to deceive.
How about Tottenham? They had a very strong season last year aided by having very few injuries. I can't see them doing as well next season, and wouldn't be at all surprised to see their manager leave for pastures new sooner rather than later
Everton? Who knows, but surely the football will be better to watch As for West Brom, now the Aston Villa of the division - poor to watch and always down the bottom
Sunderland are now similar to the Albion of two years ago as far as I'm concerned. Sam Allardyce will continue with his 'consolidating' style and will probably leave at the end of the season with the Mackems comfortably mid-table.
Over at Selhurst Park, I suspect Alan Pardew may not be able to motivate his squad to be anything other than strugglers next season. A bad start to the campaign and he'll be gone reasonably quickly. Meanwhile at Bournemouth I can see Eddie Howe getting itchy feet very early doors and moving on to pastures new.
With regards to Liverpool, I'm far from convinced that Jurgen Klopp is as good as he is made out to be, but they will probably be there or thereabouts come next May. As for thehe other top eight side, Southampton, it's difficult to comment until they make an appointment to replace the Everton-bound Koeman.
Stoke? See Sunderland, Swansea? See West Brom, but just a little better off
So for me there's a few interesting stories awaiting us for next season - and that's even before the transfer window has opened!! I can honestly see the coming season being stranger than last season with, once again, a team doing really well that few (if any) predict to do so.
So I'm going to go for a top six featuring Manchester City, Manchester United, West Ham United, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool. The bottom six, I think, will consist of West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace, Watford plus the newly-promoted trio of Middlesbrough, Burnley and Hull City.
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Lanzini hoping to make the cut
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
Manuel Lanzini is optimistic about his chances of making the Argentina squad for the forthcoming Olympic Games.
he Rio games' football tournament takes place between 5-21 August and the young Hammer retains high hopes of being involved, despite manager Gerardo Martino confirming recently that he will reduce his preliminary squad from 35 players to just 18 later this month.
However with the likes of Paulo Dybala, Angel Correa and Cristian Pavón already ruled out or considered doubtful for the tournament the 23-year-old West Ham midfielder has an excellent chance of being involved - much to his delight.
"I am very happy at being taken into consideration," Lanzini - whose involvement would result in him potentially being unavailable for West Ham's opening two games of the 2016/17 season - told goal.com.
"I hope to be in the final squad as to play at the Olympics would make me very proud. I've spoken to Slaven Bilic and the club and they told me that there will be no problem."
West Ham open their 2016/17 Premier League campaign away to Chelsea on 13 August before hosting Bournemouth at the Olympic Stadium a week later (20 August).
The Olympic Games quarter finals also take place on 13 August with the semi finals to follow four days layer (17 August). The men's final and bronze medal matches both take place on 20 August.
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WOULD YOU SELL PAYET?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2016 AT 9:56AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Yes, I know it is a bold question, but with so much speculation it needs to be discussed! I started to write this article a week before Euro 2016 began and thought better of it, as I assumed I would get some abuse. However, after such an incredible start for Dimitri, I just had to write something.
I was almost certain that Payet would have a great Euros and that he would become hot property and he hasn't let me down. He was by far the most important player on the pitch against Romania and his last-gasp, match winning strike sealed a dream tournament opener for him. He then followed this with another superb game against Albania, scoring another last minute goal. With these two goals, one assist and 14 chances created in just two appearances, he is closing in on Zidane's record of 15 chances created back in 2004.……maybe he is better than Zidane after all………(awaiting comments). With France already qualified it means we are likely to see at least a couple more appearances by France's Number 8 and if he continues this fine form, I think there are going to be lots of top teams interested in him.
I have to be honest and admit that when speaking to family members earlier in the season about whether I would accept a 'big' offer for Payet, I had mixed feelings. I did think accepting an offer of £50m for a 29 year-old could be good business, especially when we paid so little for him in comparison. Selling him would mean we could buy a couple of young and exciting players, with bright futures ahead and still have the likes of Lanzini, Kouyate and Ogbonna to provide a solid and creative base.
There is no questioning his talent and passion, but for the second half of the season I felt that Payet would often go missing for large parts of the game and believed that the 'We've got Payet' hype was a little unjustified at times. However, just when you forgot that he was on the field, he would provide a superb assist or one of his now famous freekicks. The stats speak for themselves and it is no coincidence that our worst run of form coincided with the period that Payet was injured.
In conclusion, Payet's form so far in Euro 2016 has been incredible and I would say he has been France's most vital player for almost the whole 180 minutes he has played. I am praying West Ham do not sell him, for any amount, as I believe he is priceless! He himself will attract the high-profile players we all dream of and can you imagine another couple of top players in an already exciting squad? There is a bright future ahead if we are still singing 'We've got Payet'at the OS!
Would you sell Dimitri and how much is he worth?
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EXCLUSIVE OPINION BASED ON INSIDE KNOWLEDGE
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 JUNE 2016 AT 12:45PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is our popular feature where our very well placed source writes about the club using inside knowledge on what he would do in the current situation. This source is extremely well verified so what he says is based around a lot of knowledge of current events.
Hello again. If I owned West Ham at the moment….. I would think it is important we sign a striker. In my last column we went through lots of possible options, but I personally have a feeling that this may be Vincent Janssen who I wrote about previously. He is 21 years-old and very strong on the ball. The reason I say this is because I can't see it being anyone else. I feel Lacezette is slowly becoming out of control and have a gut feeling that he does not want to join us, as I feel more would have happened if he was keen on the move. Also, Lyon do not have to sell as they are a Champions League club next season and of course have more funds. I feel this is the same with lots of other strikers, as it has all gone very quiet, which in a way I don't mind too much as lots of strikers we were linked with were far from value for money and I was not convinced that they would come and do the job of a 20 goal a season striker. However, two players I would welcome with open arms alongside Janssen, would be Bacca and Giroud. Of course we cannot afford all three, but I think any of these would come and do a great job and all have a proven record of scoring. I'm going to let the board work their magic and of course I have full faith in them to get it right.
I'm sure West Ham are looking for more than just a striker this summer. Tore has dropped a massive hint and I think he would bring good competition to the squad. I hope we don't pay over the odds, but it is clear to see that Bilic really rates him. If we did get him, the squad would have some real class on the wing. Bilic had also dropped hints about Hutchinson, who if I'm totally honest with you I would be disappointed to see, as he is 33 years-old and I feel we can get better. If he does come in I believe this may be the end of Obiang at West Ham, which I would hate to see as I think he is something special and a great passer of the ball, he has just struggled to get a chance. One other reason for us being linked with Hutchinson may be if Obiang wants to leave due to the lack of game time. I would prefer to see someone like Cook from Leeds, a young talent who is English and could be worth big money one day, unlike Hutchinson, on whom we would write our money off as no one is going to buy a 34 year old from us!
I do think it was the right decision to let our loan players go and I think most people would agree with me. Song was way past his sell-by date and I also hear stories about how he may have caused trouble in the team, which is something that has no place. I thought Moses was too in and out and I can't see him ever getting into that Chelsea team. Emenike showed some touches of class, but feel we can get much better. Other players that have left are Joey O'Brien and Lee, again two players who I felt should have been let go. Lee had more than a chance and struggled on loan, but I am gutted he couldn't follow in his dad's footsteps. Joey is someone that two years ago would have been a good if not great back-up, but now we are a better team than that. However I wish them both well!! Anyway, I'd better stop or I am going to have nothing to write about in my next column, in which I will talk about whom I believe should leave the club and my views on any other news. If I did own West Ham, nothing would be different as I don't think the board have done anything wrong so far this summer and have signed real quality, which Jack spoke about in his column yesterday.
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Hendrie linked with Championship move
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 19th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's out-of-favour full back Stephen Hendrie has been linked with a season-long loan move to Championship side Blackburn Rovers. Hendrie, who failed to make a single first team appearance for the Hammers last season is being targeted by Rovers, who are keen to boost their squad ahead of the 2016/17 campaign. And the 21-year-old Scottish full back, whose only first team appearances last term came during a brief loan spell at Roots Hall with Southend United is being chased by Blackburn who most recently finished 15th in the Championship. West Ham signed the Scottish defender on a pre-contract agreement from Hamilton Academicals in January 2015, with Hendrie completing his move to London at the end of that season.
* In other transfer news, relegated Newcastle United are said to remain keen on signing West Ham's teenage star Reece Oxford on loan. The Magpies are understood to have contacted West Ham last week with view to signing the England under 19 international on loan for the duration of season, according to various reports.
* West Ham United are reported to be preparing one final bid to lure Alexandre Lacazette to England. Despite earlier reports suggesting that the Lyon striker harbours reservations regarding a move to London, the Hammers are said to be considering one final record-breaking bid, in the region of £37million, to persuade Lyon to part with their highly-rated goalscorer.
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Feghouli motivated by team spirit
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
Sofiane Feghouli believes his new team have the ability to challenge the Premier League's finest next season. Feghouli, who has agreed to join West Ham on a free transfer says he was hugely impressed by the team's fighting spirit and determination under Slaven Bilic last term, when they finished a respectable seventh. And he believes that West Ham can achieve even more in the 2016/17 campaign, which kicks off against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on 13 August. "This season, with three games to go, West Ham were close to fourth place," Feghouli told L'Equipe. "There was nothing in it. It's a balanced league. And if the club continues like that, with humility and a lot of ambition, it could lead to something really good. "There's a spectacular enthusiasm around this club at the moment and to be supported like that can only motivate you."
The 26-year-old, who will officially join the Hammers on 1 July recently explained why he opted to move to England when he had also received several offers from around Europe.
"After considering the options with my family, I think it became an option that instantly stood out from the others," he added. "The direction of the club, the new stadium, the squad, the manager and the opportunity to play in the Premier League made it an easy decision for me to join."
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West Ham linked with second Nigerian youngster
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are once again being linked with a move for a young Nigerian star, according to reports emanating form Africa. All Nigeria Soccer claimed last month that the Hammers were hot on the heels of midfielder Agor Chukwudi, suggesting that United had tabled a bid in the region of £200,000 for the rising star. And now the same source has claimed that West Ham have made an enquiry for youth international Isaac Success, a 20-year-old striker who has also been linked with fellow Premier League side Watford. Success moved to Europe in 2014 - without a work permit - when Udinese signed him for €400,000. Upon being granted a permit the Nigerian under 20 international immediately joined Grenada in Spain, where he featured for their reserve team. Since then Success has gone on to represent Granada's first team on several occasions with his form being noted by clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Valencia. However his his agent, Dominic Egbukwu, believes that the Hornets are in pole position to land the goalscorer. "We are negotiating his wages and hopefully an agreement will be reached soon," he told 90 Minutes.
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2015/16 in review: February & March
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 20th June 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
Join us as we take a look back at the 2015/16 season through the eyes of KUMB Editor Graeme Howlett, who penned a weekly column for the Echo newspaper throughout the campaign.
Today we look back at February and March in part seven of our review...
22 February
West Ham were simply too good for Championship side Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Sunday afternoon as they eased their way through to the quarter finals of the FA Cup for the first time since 2011.
A brace apiece from Dimitri Payet and new signing Emmanuel Emenike - combined with a Vic Moses strike that cancelled out Ben Marshall's early opener (NB. another slow start from the Hammers) - sent West Ham through to a potential last eight encounter with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
League One Shrewsbury, who face Man U in the last of the eight fifth round fixtures tonight (Monday) will no doubt have something to say about that - and who's to say the League One side won't be able to overcome a distinctly lacklustre Mancunian outfit?
But even if they fail, West Ham should have little to fear about facing Louis Van Gaal's expensively-assembled, ragtag gang of misfits who have flattered to deceive for much of the campaign and have been unable to beat United in either of their last two meetings.
Indeed, should they continue to play as they did on Sunday, the Hammers should fear nobody. The gulf in class between Bilic's side and Paul Lambert's Championship strugglers was vast and clearly evident and, bar Marshall's early effort, which caught Darren Randolph unsighted, this really was a case of men against boys.
Spurred on by more than 7,000 travelling supporters, who had made the 250-mile trip from London to the North West, West Ham scored five, had two efforts disallowed for offside and hit the post. Had they scored ten, Rovers fans would have had little cause for complaint.
At the heart of almost everything good that came from West Ham was Dimitri Payet, who is clearly revelling in his role as the club's poster boy.
Happy with his new contract and adored by the fans, the 28-year-old midfielder scored another wonderful first half free kick before wrapping up the game with a virtuoso effort that involved a fifty-yard run and the beating of several opponents, whom he left trailing in his wake.
It would have been a perfect day for West Ham had Cheik Kouyate not been sent off midway through the second half after he was deemed to have denied a goalscoring opportunity by referee Jon Moss, thus earning a one-match suspension.
However West Ham believe they have a good chance of overturning the decision upon appeal because Kouyate's (minimal) contact with Adam Henley was clearly accidental and the striker had already lost control of the ball, which was racing away towards 'keeper Darren Randolph, before contact was made.
28 February
The press room at the Boleyn Ground was unusually busy on Saturday afternoon as the media assembled to witness former manager Sam Allardyce's return to the East End.
However those journalists who were present expecting to report on 'Big Sam's savaging by ungrateful West Ham supporters' were to be left disappointed. Not a single boo or jeer - nor any kind of negative chant, for that matter - was aimed at Slaven Bilic's predecessor as the Hammers secured three more vital Premier League points against Allardyce's new club, Sunderland.
Instead, supporters used the occasion to mark their appreciation of Bilic's regime by chanting HIS name on numerous occasions times during the match - a gesture that was rarely if ever offered to the abrasive Allardyce. (Excepting perhaps the 2012 play-off final when fans adapted ad hoc the chorus of Coldplay's 'Paradise' to 'Alla, Alla, Alladyce'!)
West Ham - who with Bilic's guidance have been transformed into genuine contenders for a European spot - struggled to get out of second gear against their relegation-threatened opponents but still managed to grab a win thanks to Michail Antonio's excellent first half strike, his fifth since joining West Ham back in September.
And although they were on the backfoot for much of the second period, Bilic's side did just about enough to keep the Black Cats at bay - although it should be noted that West Ham also hit the woodwork twice (via Mark Noble and Andy Carroll efforts) and had a very decent penalty appeal ignored by referee Mike Dean.
Still, there was something quite ironic about winning this particular fixture by one goal to nil, with a backs-to-the-wall ending; it could be said that Bilic simply out-Allardyce'd Sam Allardyce!
The win takes West Ham back above Southampton and Manchester United into fifth spot in the Premier League. And it's to the latter that the Hammers will return for a second time this season for the quarter finals of the FA Cup, the draw for which was made last Sunday following West Ham's 5-1 fifth round demolition of Blackburn.
Allocated just shy of 10,000 tickets, West Ham sold their entire quota for next month's tie at Old Trafford within 24 hours. Fans, thousands of whom were left ticketless and disappointed genuinely believe that Bilic's team have a genuine chance of reaching the semi finals this year - despite being granted what would traditionally be perceived as one of the toughest away draws.
Additionally, West Ham's FA Cup pedigree against the Red Devils is impressive having beaten them at the fifth round (1986) and semi final (1964) stages previously. And who can forget Paolo Di Canio scoring a 76th-minute, fourth round winner at Old Trafford in January 2001 as goalkeeper Fabien Barthez hailed an imaginary taxi?
6 March
Last November a dreadful challenge by Everton's James McCarthy sidelined West Ham's Dimitri Payet for the remainder of 2015.
So it was poetic justice when the brilliant Frenchman popped up inside the Toffees' six-yard box during Saturday's return meeting between the two clubs to score the winning goal, as West Ham recorded their first win on the Blue side of Stanley Park since December 2005.
And what an incredible win it was for Slaven Bilic's side, who were two goals behind with less than fifteen minutes of normal time remaining before staging a remarkable comeback to steal all three points, courtesy of Payet's last-minute winner.
Having fallen behind to strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon, Adrian made a brilliant save from a (Lukaku) penalty to prevent West Ham from going 3-0 down - at which point the travelling fans must have been wondering whether the early start had been worth it!
However their patience and endeavour was ultimately rewarded as West Ham staged an epic comeback. Michail Antonio, prolific of late scored United's first on 78 minutes, the returning Diafra Sakho levelled the game three minutes later - and Payet – who else? - grabbed the winner, just as added-on time commenced.
The victory - West Ham's third in a week, following the wins against Sunderland and Tottenham - lifted Bilic's side back above Manchester United into fourth place in the Premier League, thus keeping alive the Irons' hopes of ending what is already a memorable campaign in a European position.
But which competition that will be in remains to be seen, with the Hammers now presenting a very real threat to those clubs hoping to finish in the top four and qualify for next season's Champions League.
Just three points separate West Ham and second-placed Arsenal, who drew at Spurs on Saturday and whilst Bilic won't dare speak of it, a spot in Europe's premier competition is certainly within reach. Unlikely still - but who thought Leicester City would be title favourites in March!?
However all thoughts of Premier League success will be set aside for the next week or so as attention returns to the FA Cup, where a tantalising quarter final tie at Old Trafford awaits.
West Ham have enjoyed mixed FA Cup fortunes against Manchester United in recent seasons. Few present on the day will forget Paolo Di Canio's winning goal in a 2001, fourth round meeting; few who witnessed the Gary Breen-inspired 6-0 defeat two years later will wish to remember it!
More recently, in a 2013 third round tie, the Hammers were seconds away from securing a 2-1 win at the Boleyn Ground when Robin Van Persie grabbed a last-minute equaliser, taking the tie back to Old Trafford for a replay - which the hosts won 1-0.
But this is a very different West Ham team right now - and one that has every chance of turning the tables and securing a place in this year's FA Cup semi finals.
20 March
By rights, West Ham United should be looking forward to an FA Cup semi final whilst peering down at the rest of the Premier League from a lofty fourth place.
And that would indeed have been the case had referees Martin Atkinson and Bobby Madley made the correct calls at Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge respectively, in the Irons' two most recent outings.
The weekend before last, West Ham were denied an FA Cup semi final spot - for now - when Atkinson deemed a Man Utd equaliser to be within the laws of the game, despite Bastian Schweinsteiger clearly bundling 'keeper Darren Randolph into the net as Anthony Martial prepared to shoot.
And having allowed Man United's dodgy 84th-minute equaliser to stand - a goal that forced a replay at the Boleyn Ground - Atkinson infuriated West Ham further by ruling out what appeared to be a perfectly legitimate, last=gasp strike by Michail Antonio for offside.
Fast forward seven days and West Ham, leading Chelsea 1-0 in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge concede a free kick on the edge of the penalty area in the closing stages of the first half.
United defenders remonstrate with official Madley as behind him and unseen, Cesc Fabregas moves the ball a yard or two further away from goal in order to gain a better angle for a shot meaning West Ham's 'wall' is now 12-13 yards from where the kick will be taken.
But their protests are ignored as the Spanish midfielder drops the ball over the wall and into Adrian's top right corner to level the scores.
Fast forward another 45 minutes or so and West Ham, having restored their lead through substitute Andy Carroll and therefore set to rise above Man City into fourth place in the Premier League are punished yet again by a terrible call from Madley.
The Wakefield-born referee decides to award Chelsea a 90th-minute penalty despite the offending tackle by Antonio on Ruben Loftus-Cheek - if it was even a foul at all (video evidence suggests otherwise) - having occurred outside the penalty box. All of which took place just yards from where the official was placed. Fabregas steps up again to score from the spot and West Ham lose two vital Premier League points.
Last season a long-running thread on the KUMB Forum put to bed the common misconception that "these things even themselves out over the course of the season".
The evidence collected during the course of the 2015/16 campaign suggested this simply wasn't true, and once again West Ham - who have now gone some four seasons without being awarded a penalty away from home - have been left feeling wronged after facing one of the nation's elite clubs.
So instrumental have those decisions been in the last two games that even Slaven Bilic, one of the managers least likely to resort to blaming officials for his team's misfortunes decreed recent examples such as those above as "unacceptable".
The irony of all that is that Bilic may well get fined by the Premier League for telling it how it is - whereas the substandard Atkinson and Madley are unlikely to face any action from the PGMOL, the unaccountable and untouchable quango who control the appointment of match day referees.
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Is Chris Smalling on his way to West Ham? Slaven Bilic lavishes praise on England and Man United centre-back
20:48, 20 JUN 2016 UPDATED 20:48, 20 JUN 2016
BY THOMAS BRISTOW
The Hammers boss may have said one compliment too many
The Mirror
We've already been made aware of how brilliant Slaven Bilic is as a pundit for ITV, but has the West Ham boss just given away his summer transfer plans? In the video above the Croatian is asked for his opinion on England and Manchester United centre-back, Chris Smalling.
How does he respond? With a flow of compliments so strong it would make even the most modest man blush. He said Smalling's great on the ball, can pass well, is very vocal, a leader, great in the air, very quick - blimey anything else? - oh, and he's England's best. His comments were so grand it got Lee Dixon suggesting that Bilic wants to sign Smalling. Everyone of course laughs, except for the West Ham boss, who looks as though his secret transfer plans have been discovered.
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Sullivan admits how life will get better for him
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 20, 2016 in News
C and H
David Sullivan has admitted life will improve for him once he has signed a top class striker. The co chairman – despite having a lot of cash to spend – and has regularly admitted it but as yet has failed to get his man. Speaking to the official site the boss said: "Once we sign a top striker I will feel a lot better and that is the main position we need.
Our top goalscorer last season scored 12 goals and if someone had scored 20 we would have been in a different position. We all saw what Leicester did last season and we start the campaign with the aim of winning the Premier League. Anyone who says it can't be done only has to look at what Leicester achieved and it can be done. It is unlikely but that has to be our aim, along with the FA Cup and Capital One Cup. We have three trophies and we want to win all of them. We are also in Europe and we want to do well in that as well."
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Gold's calm response to ticket price fury
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 20, 2016 in News
C and H
Quite why Twitter brings out the worst in people with language to match is one of the most disturbing mysteries of the 21st century. Disagreeing – it seems – is not sufficient for many. There simply have to be obscenities accompanied by accusation and sometimes near hatred. One person who appears to have learned how to handle it is David Gold – the focus for much of that stuff down the years and who has the ability to come back with a calm one liner. Such is the case this morning after a furious outburst by one of his followers on the aforementioned social network operation.
He tweeted to Gold: "I've seen the last tickets for west ham juve game are priced at £166 quid f…..g ludicrous @davidgold
The co chairman calmly responded: The first tickets were available at £20."
It is actually quite simple to ask a question – as of course many do – without the fury that too often goes with it and it's a muh better way of leading life!
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Tore deal hits snag
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Besiktas Chairman, Fikret Orman is said to be furious that West Ham has asked for a season loan deal for Gökhan Töre with an option to buy. A source close to Besiktas told Claret and Hugh "Bilic (has) made a mistake. Our president (has) gone crazy. Bilic wanted to loan Töre" It is claimed that David Sullivan isn't entirely convinced that Tore is worth the £13m Besiktas want for him and as a compromise West Ham would prefer to loan Tore for a season in a try before you buy agreement similar to the Lanzini deal last season. Tore admits he wants to play for West Ham and reunite with his former manager, last week he said "I have a contract until 2019 with Besiktas. But I completed my mission here. If you get my fee, I want to play at West Ham" We understand that a £2.3m bid for Atiba Hutchinson was also rejected by the Besiktas chairman for being far too low.
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Ibe images in West Ham top discredited
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham IbeChairman's son, Jack Sullivan has discredited rumours about Liverpool winger joining West Ham saying on twitter "The ibe rumours are not true! We are not signing him."
Ibe became a surprise bookies 5/2 favourite over the weekend with Bookmakers Paddy Power after images of Ibe circulated around the Internet of him in a West Ham top. It now appears these images are most likely fake. The 20-year-old was left out of the Liverpool squad towards the end of the season, which led him to subsequently removed all references to the club from his Twitter profile. His account on the social network has otherwise been dormant for just under a year. Ibe's career has stuttered under Jurgen Klopp with the talented winger completing just four Premier League fixtures since his arrival in October 2015. He came up through the Charlton Athletic and Wycombe Wanderers youth setups until he signed a pre-contract with Liverpool in 2011.
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DS and that £25 million revelation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
It's impossible to be critical of David Sullivan after last season's incredible success in the summer transfer market. By common consent across the whole of the fan base, we made a series of brilliant signings – not one of which failed to do the business whenever they were called upon. Every one of them surpassed all expecations. So far this term we have made a couple of free signings and the co chairman has made it clear on the official site he will feel better when he has the much sought after striker on board. We at Claret and Hugh have never made any secret of the fact that we are big fans of David's. He has never been anything other than courteous and helpful when we have requested interviews and it is refreshing to have such an accessible man at the helm. He is not one to have regrets or look backwards but maybe he is sufering a little in negotiations for that striker after declaring very early on the amount of money he was ready to spend on a front man. Alexandre Lacazette's price is now being quoted at £40 million and maybe clubs in the Hammers market place believe we have far more than the £25 million set aside. I am convinced will we get a top striker but I felt at the time it was untypical of DS to let the £25 million cat put of the bag. Onwards and upwards and like DS we too look forward to seeing a photo of a top striker holding a claret and blue scarf over his head on the official website!
COYI
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JUVENTUS BATTLE WEST HAM FOR BATSHUAYI, NKOUDOU
DANIEL EMERY ReadWestHam
According to Sport24, Juventus are readying moves for Michy Batshuayi and Georges-Kévin Nkoudou this summer, both thought to be targets for West Ham. The report says that Juventus are ready to spend around £45m on the Marseille pair as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Serie A season. With Alvaro Morata and Simone Zaza both potentially off to pastures new, Juventus are in the market for a striker and Batshuayi fits the bill. The 26-year-old has scored 26 Ligue 1 goals in two seasons for Marseille, which has attracted interest from a number of clubs, including West Ham. Nkoudou is also thought to be a summer target for Slaven Bilic, but Juventus are very keen on him too. The 21-year-old winger played 38 games last season, scoring five and setting up ten. Both players would have been fantastic additions for West Ham, but it seems as though Juventus are a pace ahead in the race.
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LAZIO TABLE €10M BID FOR WEST HAM TARGET ÖZYAKUP
THOMAS BORE readWestHam
Lazio have stolen a march on West Ham in the race for Oguzhan Özyakup by tabling a €10million bid to Besiktas, according to Turkish source Spor Haberleri. Özyakup currently plies his trade in Turkey for Besiktas and has been heavily linked with a summer move away from the club, much to the annoyance of Besiktas' general secretary Ahmed Ürkmezgil. Ahmed, as quoted by Sondakika, recently said: "Oguzhan and (fellow West Ham target) Atiba (Hutchinson) are not considered for sale. (They) will not transfer. Besiktas president Fikret Orman has today echoed Ürkmezgil's and talked down a potential move for Özyakup to Lazio. He was quoted by Spor Haberleri saying: "(None of the) Besiktas team will not be leaving for a middle-class team like Lazio, they would go to top teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United." Judging by their comments, Lazio's €10million bid will be rejected but the transfer saga will not stop here. According to Fanatik, Özyakup is a priority target for West Ham and a move for the 23-year-old could materialise in the coming days following Lazio's offer. Slaven Bilic is believed to be a huge fan of Ozyakup, a man he said was the most talented footballer in Turkey while covering their game against Croatia for ITV, as well as branding him the 'new Mesut Ozil', according to the Express.
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LYON PREPARING FOR LACAZETTE EXIT
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Lyon are resigned to losing striker Alexandre Lacazette this summer as they make preparations to sign his possible replacement ahead of the news amid interest from West Ham and Paris Saint-Germain. According to French source mercato365, Lyon are closing in on a move for SC Caen striker Anthony Delort as a replacement for Lacazette. The former Wigan striker scored 12 Ligue 1 goals last season and would cost just €12m. That is just a snippet of the price-tag on Lacazette's shoulders as Lyon are looking for nearer €50m, which equates to roughly £40m. The Hammers have already seen a £32m bid turned down for the 24-year-old this month but will return with an improved offer. It's rumoured that the offer will be in the region of £37m plus bonuses which would bring the total fee nearer the £40m asking-price. Whether that would be enough to prize the French international away from Lyon remains to be seen. Lacazette netted 21 goals in Ligue 1 last season – his third-successive season scoring 20+ league goals, making him the ideal target for the Hammers who have stated themselves they're looking for a '20 goal a season striker'. Club president Michel-Jean Aulas has been firm on his stance regarding Lacazette but has admitted that he could be helpless if the striker made his intentions clear on a possible move to Paris Saint-Germain. If PSG must have Alexander (Lacazette), I do not say no. If he wishes to join them, I say 'Why not'. The Frenchman remains West Ham's number one transfer target this summer and they will continue to do all they can to convince him to make the move to East London.
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WEST HAM AND SPORTING CHASE NIGERIAN TEENAGER AGOR
THOMAS BORE DeludedMag
ReadWestHam
Sporting Lisbon will go head-to-head with West Ham for teenage sensation Chukwudi Agor, Nigerian source Owngoalnigeria has revealed. Agor is just 17-years-old and currently plies his trade for the ASJ Academy in Nigeria. Former Lisbon player and 27-time Nigeria international, Emmanuel Amunike recommended Agor to Sporting, having watched him at the academy. While West Ham had sent scouts to track Chukwudi's progress. There has been no mention of a transfer fee, though it will be minimal compared to the €40million bid West Ham tabled for French striker Alexandre Lacazette of Lyon last week. Should either club reach an agreement for Agor, the Nigeria under-20 international will be unable to officially transfer until he turns 18 in November. Lisbon fans are clearly excited by the prospect of signing Agor, with one fan stating: "It would be great to hire the young midfielder Chukwudi Agor, the future of Nigerian and world football. Come cheap and will be an ace in a short time. This kid is a young promise of Nigeria Another suggested, rather laughably, that West Ham have 'run out of money' and would, therefore, let Sporting win the race for the teenager's signature.
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EMMAUEL EMENIKE SPEAKS OUT ON TIME AT WEST HAM
MICHAEL OLIVER ReadWestHam
Former West Ham strike Emmanuel Emenike has spoken about his time at the club and what the future holds following the end of his loan spell from Fenerbahce. The Hammers signed the Nigerian international on loan in January until the end of the season, a deal which included an option to make the move permanent this summer if the club wished. Slaven Bilic ultimately declined the option to sign the striker he had watched score many goals in the Turkish Super Lig against his Besiktas side before he became West Ham manager in the summer of 2015.
It was injuries to Andy Carroll, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia which forced the club to make a move for Emenike but the former Spartak Moscow attacker failed to impress and was relegated to the fourth-choice option and scored just two goals in 16 appearances for the club – both in a 5-1 rout over Blackburn in the FA Cup. Speaking to Haber Turk, the 29-year-old believes his time in East London was an important experience for him and makes him remember what he had at Fenerbahce.
West Ham was a very important experience for me. There are many things I have learned. I was back on my own at Fenerbahce. But sometimes we had bad periods. Now I see that I made some mistakes and can criticise myself. Now I think it's my debt payment time. When you leave the value of Fenerbahce you understand better, the ambience is great … even in European club is not possible to find such an environment. Emenike failed to show the goalscoring prowess the Hammers are looking for as they continue their upward surge in the Premier League.
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New contract will NOT stop Dimitri Payet leaving West Ham this summer, claims Ray Parlour
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Monday, June 20, 2016
Ray Parlour has warned West Ham that Dimitri Payet's 'long-term' contract will not stop him leaving the club this summer if the right team comes along. France sensation Payet has been one of the stars of Euro 2016 so far with his match-winning performances for the unbeaten tournament hosts. But his stunning displays might have Hammers chiefs worried ahead of the summer transfer window, with top sides now fully aware of his quality and set-piece prowess. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea have already been linked with big-money moves for the 29-year-old. Payet seemed to commit his long-term future to West Ham by penning a new contract which runs until 2021 back in February. But former Arsenal and England midfielder Parlour insisted that will matter little this summer if the player is tempted by a big move. Speaking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, Parlour said: "The summer transfer window, when the Euros finishes, is going to be amazing. It's going to be really hectic. "Everyone will be targeting players and a lot of managers will be keeping a close eye on the Euros. "Dimitri Payet…what a player! He's lit up the Euros so far. He's been outstanding. "He had a great season at West Ham, and they will be delighted that he signed a new contract. "But then again we know that contracts don't really matter these days. If a player wants to leave, it's very hard to keep him. "But he might want to stay there. He might be looking forward to that new stadium and working with Slaven Bilic, who has been excellent for the club."
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ANTHONY MODESTE CLOSE TO JOINING WEST HAM UNITED
June 20, 2016 Prashanth Nair
sporquo.com
Anthony Modeste has already reached an agreement with West Ham united as per Le10Sport. The Hammers are keen to add a striker to their squad this summer and have been linked with a move for several strikers across Europe.He will be signed as a replacement for Diafra Sakho as he is reportedly going to Sunderland since he failed to nail down a starting place in Slaven Bilic led side. The Premier League club's interest in Modeste is 'serious' and they have already made contact with the player's representatives. Die Welt is just one of many sources that carry quotes from his current club FC Koln's CEO Alexander Wehrle in which he makes it clear the French striker is set to remain at the club for the upcoming Bundesliga campaign: "The clause was not validly withdrawn. We assume that Anthony Modeste plays in the upcoming season with us – and we wish him well."
Anthony Modeste had a famously poor loan spell at Blackburn Rovers earlier in his career. It was then reported by Geissblog.Koeln that Modeste wanted the move to West Ham and he may consider this as one of his last move to a big club. Anthony Modeste has come good since moving to German football, originally with Hoffenheim, but now with Koln. He scored an impressive 18 goals in 36 appearances for Koln last season and West Ham are looking for new strikers – with the futures of Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia currently unclear. West Hame have already seen a big money big rejected for Lyon forward Alexandre Lacazette, while Marseille hit man Michy Batshuayi is another who has been linked. And it appears another they are keen on is Cologne striker Anthony Modeste, with Le10Sport reporting that they have already made initial contact with the player's entourage about a potential move.However, they could face competition from Chinese side Beijing Guoan, who are reportedly close to making offer for the Frenchman.
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