West Ham United statement
WHUFC.com
The points raised in this morning's City AM article are irrelevant as the
Club is categorically not for sale and the Joint-Chairmen have made clear
they have no plans to sell the Club.
The Concession Agreement, where they affirm that commitment, is in the
public domain and speaks for itself.
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Commemorative Thames Ironworks Kit unveiled
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Commemorative 2016/17 Thames Ironworks Kit goes on sale
today ahead of its debut at Sunday's Betway Cup game against Juventus. The
Commemorative Kit echoes the very first to be worn by Thames Ironworks FC –
the Hammers' forerunners – and will mark the official opening of the Club's
new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Featuring a navy blue design with Union Jack detailing, the Kit represents
the Iron Men who founded the Club and is now available to purchase at
officialwesthamstore.com
You can now get fully kitted out for the 2016/17 season, with the full set
of Umbro Home, Away and Commemorative Kits now available online and in
store.
Ahead of a momentous week for the Club, in which they will play their first
games at their new home, make sure you mark the occasion with the new Kit.
Our new Stadium Store has all three Kits and the full range of Umbro
training wear alongside Hammers gifts, souvenirs, leisurewear and more.
Click here for full details of how to get to the new Stadium Store.
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Fletcher - It is one of the best Stadiums I have ever seen
WHUFC.com
Fletcher set to make first appearance at the new Stadium
The talented forward has already scored two goals during pre-season
Fletcher predicts big things for West Ham next season
Ashley Fletcher cannot wait to play his first game at West Ham United's new
home and believes it is one of the best stadiums he has ever seen. Fletcher
is no stranger to playing at a big venue, having come through the ranks at
Old Trafford and has played in a 60,000 arena. The talented forward was
given a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hammers' new home following his move
last month and was taken aback by the size of the new Stadium. Fletcher is
set to make his first appearance in east London when West Ham face NK
Domzale in the UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round Second Leg on
Thursday night and will be looking to reverse a 2-1 deficit as they look to
reach the next stage of the competition.
Fletcher said: "The stadium is looking great and I cannot wait to play the
first game here. I am looking forward to seeing it filled with West Ham
fans. "I have obviously seen a lot of pictures of the new Stadium but you
don't appreciate how big it actually is until you come here and I think it
is one of the best stadiums I have ever seen. "Looking at the seats and the
scoreboard it gives a real modern vibe and I cannot wait to play my first
game here. "This really shows the level that West Ham want to be aspiring to
and was one of the main reasons I joined the Club."
Fletcher has wasted no time settling into his new surroundings and
immediately showed his quality when he got on the scoresheet against FC
Slovacko and Karlsruher on the pre-season tour to Austria. He added: "I have
really enjoyed my time at the Club so far and have already made some really
good friends. I feel I am really settling in well. "When I first signed I
trained alongside Gokhan Tore as the rest of the players were finishing
their pre-season tour to America and I spoke to him about his time in
Turkey. "It is nice to have someone else who is new to the set-up but I have
settled in really well. "I can see there is a huge team-spirit here and this
is a family club so I am really enjoying my time here."
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Five Talking Points - Thames Ironworks Commemorative Kit
WHUFC.com
We take a look at the similarities between the West Ham United we know today
and Thames Ironworks FC following the release of the Club's new
Commemorative kit…
Silverware
Thames Ironworks secured silverware in their all-blue kit during their first
season of existence, as they lifted the West Ham Charity Cup in 1895/96.
Barking Woodville were the side who were beaten, however it took three
attempts after two previous draws.
And the Hammers will be looking to emulate their forefathers and win their
own silverware in the commemorative kit this week as they take on Juventus
in Sunday's Betway Cup tie at the new Stadium on Queen Elizabeth Olympic
Park.
The Old Lady have plenty of silverware in the trophy cabinet themselves, and
won the league and cup double in Italy last season.
The Hammers will want to bounce back after last season's disappointment in
the competition, in which they lost 2-1 to German side Werder Bremen at the
Boleyn Ground.
Success
In their blue strip, Thames Ironworks enjoyed major success as a football
club, and West Ham United will hope their upcoming season will see similar
triumphs at their new home.
In the side's first ever season back in 1985/86, as well as winning the
previously mentioned West Ham Charity Cup, the team were victorious in 30 of
their 46 matches that campaign.
After last season's achievements, which saw the Hammers finish seventh in
the Premier League – their best final league placing for 14 years – the Club
and Slaven Bilic's side will be keen to continue their success on the
football pitch.
New multi-sports arena
As West Ham United move into their new London Stadium this season, it almost
mirrors the switch made by Thames Ironworks back in 1897, as they moved into
a new venue themselves – the Memorial Grounds in West Ham.
Of course, wearing their all-blue strip, Thames Ironworks began to play
their football in the Memorial Grounds – a facility that could house more
than 100,000 spectators – that summer.
Like the Hammers' new home, the Memorial Grounds was a multi-sports arena
which played host to many other events. A banked cycle track surrounded the
pitch, and, like the Club's new Stadium, was home to athletics as well.
Tennis courts, cricket pitches and outdoor swimming pools were also on the
Grounds and 119 years later, many of the same activities and sports take
place on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Kits
The Thames Ironworks' kit featured the Union Jack badge from 1986/87
onwards, as does the Hammers' new commemorative strip.
Founder of the side Arnold Hills had many passions, with patriotism being
among them. The addition of the flag signalled this, and the red streaks
throughout the strip is also reflected in Umbro's new release.
The kit also features a classic buttoned collar, and the crossed hammers
logo is proudly displayed on the neck of the shirt.
Ambitious owners
Arnold Hills established Thames Ironworks FC back in the 19th century and
the local businessman clearly wanted the best for local people. As a keen
promoter of healthy living and exercise, Hills was keen for his workers to
become involved in communal activities.
The current West Ham owners want and advocate affordable football for all
the Club's supporters and those who have secured tickets for the Club's
Betway Cup fixture against Juventus will be the first to experience that at
the new Stadium on Sunday.
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE COLUMN: EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER UPDATE
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 31 JULY 2016 AT 10:48PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
So it has been a while since I have written one of these so there is quite a
lot to cover.
Forward Situation: There has been a lot of panic around us signing forwards
and yes we have missed out on some of our targets but there is still no need
to panic.
Calleri:
We should have Calleri officially confirmed as our player in the near future
(I know I have said this for a while now). There has been a hold up
finalising the deal because of his Olympic commitments so he hasn't been
able to come over and have a medical done but the club are still confident
he will become a West Ham player soon. The original hold up was that he had
to get an Italian passport so he didn't require a work permit, this has now
been resolved. It will be a loan deal with a given a date to be reviewed
by, to decide whether it will then be turned into a permanent deal. A very
similar situation to that of Lanzini.
Ayew:
We have made serious enquires about the Swansea forward and submitted an
offer which we believe matches their demands. The problem with the deal is
that Swansea are seriously lacking in the forward department themselves and
want to complete a deal before they sell him, a little similar to the
situation that we were in. Their fans are becoming restless as well so they
are trying to manage the situation carefully before openly accepting our
bid. Claims that Swansea know nothing about our interest and intentions are
just not true and you only have to read our Chairman's comments about the
bid submitted for an international forward in the Premier League to work out
that it is him. People have questioned why we will now be able to afford
his wages when we couldn't last year when we could have signed him on a
free. The bottom line is we are happy to pay more now because he has proven
himself in the Premier League. He will not be an out and out forward but
will get games there if needed. The club see him as a similar player/role
to Valencia, can play up top but more likely to be used as an attacking
winger. We hope to conclude the deal in the next week assuming Swansea
start to play ball.
Marquee signing:
I am not sure where this rumour that we were announcing a marquee signing
this evening has came from or that I will say anything different
tonight-someone has misquoted me somewhere. This is the situation; despite
the large fee for Ayew he would not be the marquee forward. It is fair to
say that Bacca has still not turned down the club and his options appear to
be limited elsewhere. He may be "forced" into the move because Milan need
to sell him to buy other players and he doesn't have a great deal of
options. If he then decides still not to join us I can see us making a move
for Benteke of Liverpool. He has still yet to join another club and like
Bacca, he is keeping his options open. David Gold is a big fan. The Bacca
situation is an interesting one but he really is the club's first choice and
until he says an outright no we will keep hoping.
Sakho to Leave:
WBA have always been the front runners for Sakho and appear to have
submitted a bid of around £10m plus clauses which will take the deal up to
around £16m, which really is a decent amount for someone who has caused a
fair share of problems in recent months. The main concern is whether he
will pass his medical or not, the club hope that he will but there are
concerns about his back especially. Berahino has been talked about as being
part of the deal but the club are worried that with his attitude they could
be taking a big risk and prefer Ayew for the role. The other potential
problem with the deal is that Sakho may see himself as "better than WBA" and
like Bacca try and hold out for another club. Liverpool did at one stage
show an interest, plus a number of French and German teams and he may wish
to keep his options open. The handy thing about him handing in a transfer
request is that he has now stopped himself being owed any loyalty payments.
Left Back Signing:
We have a number of targets for the left back role. The main criteria that
the board wish to have is someone who has played in the Premier League and
is experienced. This rules out the Manchester United youngsters who have
been linked and foreign based players with no Premier League experience.
Gibbs on loan was a possibility but it appears Arsenal do not want to
sanction this as they have their own concerns in defence. We have
approached Robertson of Hull but our initial offer was rejected and we do
not want to spend over £10m on the player. We also bid £8m for Norwich's
Brady but were told that Norwich want £12m for him and that this is not what
we would be prepared to pay. Whilst we were there with Norwich we also
enquired about Olsson and were greeted with a more realistic option. He
hasn't been getting in their team because of Brady and therefore his
valuation is a lot lower. This is again someone who we have approached in
the past and were very close to signing him before we signed Cresswell. For
me Robertson is first choice and if that fails Olsson will be an alternative
option.
Randolph New Deal:
The club moved quickly this week after offers were submitted for our second
choice keeper. Randolph was becoming aware that other clubs were interested
so we tied him down to a long term deal and have promised him opportunities
to make the goalkeeper position his own this season. These will come
notably in the cup competitions and if he proves himself again he could
challenge to start in the league. I believe this is healthy for the club.
Third Shirt:
The new shirt is due to release in the next few days (some say tomorrow) and
will be very much based on our first ever kit with modern changes to it. It
looks really nice and is arguably the best one out of the lot.
Payet:
He is excited to be returning to the club's training on Monday and there is
no intention to hand in a transfer request. The club have said they will do
all they can to hold onto him and this is still the case. I do not believe
he can play on Thursday as he wasn't registered for the first leg but he
should play some part in the Juventus game.
The West Ham Way Update:
We will have our first live radio show will air this Wednesday at 7pm. We
have no special guests this week as we intend to chat about a range of
things instead. The show has been top in a number of charts now and we
really our grateful for your support. We have an extra special show planned
for transfer deadline day with more information to follow.
Evan, Baz and George will be launching West Ham Way Tv at Thursday's game so
please come and chat to them. Our August fanzine is being created now so
don't forget to order. We are also looking for more advertisers for the
site so please get in touch. After this I will do a Q and A session on our
forum at 11 to clear up any questions you still have after this.
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30 days to find five players
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st August 2016
By: bubbles1966
The question is this: want do we want to achieve this year? I think the
realistic objective must remain a top eight finish, minimum, and Europe one
way or another - via a Cup win, or through finishing top six in the Premier
League. Here's last year's baseline, showing West Ham's points handicap and
net spend in the summer transfer window to date:
Premier League positions, 2015/16 season
1. Leicester City: -19 (-£6m)
2. Arsenal: -9 (+£44m)
3. Tottenham: -8 (+£31m)
4. Manchester City: -4 (+£29m)
5. Manchester Utd: -4 (+£68m)
6. Southampton: -1 (-£4m)
7. West Ham Utd: (+£5m)
8. Liverpool: +2 (+£31m)
9. Stoke City: +11 (+£17m)
10. Chelsea: +12 (+£47m)
11. Everton: +15 (+£800k)
I've left last season's bottom half out, although there's always a chance
that a Sunderland or a Palace might have a good season. The change of
manager at Everton should be worth at least ten points to them, too. Last
season's interlopers have spent nothing net, while all the Sky clubs have
been splashing the cash trying to impress their new managers.
Meanwhile names like Victor Wanyama, Georginio Wijnaldum, Joe Allen and
Sadio Mane - who have gone for over £85million between them - have been
routinely dismissed as "rubbish" by Hammers fans posting on the KUMB Forum.
Our Budget
I believe a net spend of £30m-£50m - the TV money and nothing else - will go
a very long way, especially if it's topped up with money from the sale of
players like Enner Valencia, Diafra Sakho and James Tomkins.
The new Premier League season kicks off in twelve days' time and we still
require the following:
* A better centre forward than Sakho to compete with Andy Carroll as the
line leader;
* A better wide striker than Valencia to compete with Michail Antonio;
* A top quality right back
* A back up/challenger to Cresswell at left back
* A replacement fourth centre back, now that Tomkins has gone.
You've got to fancy that the odd loan will fill one or two of those
defensive positions. In fact, I'm surprised we haven't been linked with
Croatian international Ivan Strinic at Napoli yet. So far we've replaced
frees and loans with frees and loans from elsewhere - for Song, Moses,
Emenike and O'Brien, see Nordtveit, Tore, Feghouli and (the impending)
Calleri. The real problem for Slaven Bilic is that the balance is wrong,
largely due to the belief that Antonio is a capable right back. As a result,
we've left ourselves light at the back. I'm guessing that no one expected
James Collins to be playing in the semi finals of Euro 2016 in early July
either!
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Norwich reject West Ham bid for Martin Olsson - Sky sources
By Paul Vinnell
Last Updated: 01/08/16 12:35pm
SSN
Norwich City have rejected a £3m bid from West Ham for defender Martin
Olsson, according to Sky sources. The London club have been one of the more
active Premier League sides in the transfer market this summer and have made
five signings so far. They have also been frustrated in a number of
attempted moves, however, and Norwich's refusal to sell at the price West
Ham are offering is another setback. They were also thwarted in their
attempt to sign Hull and Scotland full-back Andrew Robertson for £7m on
Friday when that bid was dismissed. Olsson joined Norwich three years ago
from Blackburn for a fee in the region of £2.5m after spending six years at
Ewood Park. The 28-year-old - capped 38 times - played every minute of
Sweden's three matches at Euro 2016 as they went out in the group stages.
Olsson made 27 appearances for Norwich last season but could not help them
avoid relegation to the Championship and he has one year left on his current
deal at Carrow Road.
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IS MESSI AND AGUERO'S ARGENTINE PROVIDER ABOUT TO JOIN WEST HAM?
Ladbrokes.co.uk
August 2016 marks a decade since the stunning arrival of Argentine greats
Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano at Upton Park. So it seems fitting that
one of today's most exciting stars for La Albiceleste looks likely to join
West Ham United in the coming weeks. His name? Roberto Pereyra.
The 25-year-old spent the last two seasons at Juventus, the first of which
included an impressive six-goal haul and a Champions League final
appearance.
But the most recent campaign saw the former River Plate man struggle for
game-time in Italy, despite taking his number of Argentina caps into double
figures during the campaign.
Still, after five impressive years in Serie A with Udinese and currently I
Bianconeri, there's little doubt about the midfielder's creativity,
work-rate, and physical strength.
And those qualities would make him an especially good fit for West Ham,
whose displays last season combined flair and physicality to impressive
effect.
With Transfermarkt.co.uk estimating the player's value at £13.6m, down over
£800k since last summer, now could be the time for Slaven Bilic to swoop,
especially with a sizeable sum about to be freed up by the sale of Diafra
Sakho to West Brom.
Chances are the Argentine would also settle in well at the Irons' new
Olympic Stadium home, with fellow River Plate teammate Manuel Lanzini
already a regular for the east London outfit.
West Ham begin the Premier League campaign with a trip to Chelsea, where
it's 19/4 the visitors take all three points.
In the longer term, Bilic will be looking to build on the recent
seventh-placed finish with a top-six spot (11/4) or even a place in the top
four at 8/1.
Bringing in the man chosen to provide chances for Sergio Aguero, Lionel
Messi and Gonzalo Higuain at international level would be quite a boost to
their chances, and could see those odds of Premier League progression
tumble.
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Swansea target Fernando Llorente as replacement for West Ham-bound Andre
Ayew
The Telegraph
1 AUGUST 2016 • 3:02PM
Swansea City are trying to agree a wage package with the former Spain
international Fernando Llorente before they permit Andre Ayew to leave for
West Ham in a £20 million deal.
The sticking point with signing the Seville striker are his wages, believed
to be around £5 million annually. The transfer fee is likely to be small,
around £5 million, but would require the club to commit to at least two
years for Llorente, which he has on his current lucrative deal in Seville.
His agent, and brother, Chus Llorente said on Monday that the player was
still committed to staying at Seville, who will play in the Champions League
next season. The 31-year-old is part of another Swansea overhaul of their
striking options with Bafetimbi Gomis having already left on loan to
Marseille. Ayew was signed on a free transfer last summer, although there
were considerable agent fees and terms to be met. He scored 12 goals last
season and the plan was always that he would move on for the right price.
The club have traded players astutely since their Premier League promotion
in 2011, moving on Wilfried Bony, Joe Allen, Jonjo Shelvey and Scott
Sinclair for considerable profits. Francesco Guidolin will have a very
different side next season with captain Ashley Williams also likely to leave
for Everton, who have a strong interest in the centre-back - contracted to
Swansea for another two years. West Ham's offer for Ayew is in response to
the departure of Diafra Sakho to West Bromwich Albion. He is expected to
leave for a fee of around £16 million, a record for West Brom.
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West Ham transfer news: Hammers consider Mario Gomez move as they await a
response from Swansea to £20m Andre Ayew bid
KEN DYER
Evening Standard
West Ham await a response from Swansea to their £20million bid for Andre
Ayew, who is seen as a replacement for Diafra Sakho, a target for West Brom.
A bid of £15m, rising by £5m with add-ons, has been lodged but the Welsh
club want to sign a replacement before they let Ayew go. West Brom have bid
£10m, rising to £16m for Sakho which would be acceptable to West Ham, who
signed the Senegal striker for £4.5m in August 2014. West Ham's search for
a marquee striker signing, meanwhile, goes on. AC Milan's Colombian star
Carlos Bacca is their preferred choice but the player is keen on a move to
Napoli. The door may be closing on that possibility though, as Napoli move
to sign Mauro Icardi from Inter. The German international is at Fiorentina
but the Serie A club are eager to offload him because of his salary — around
£4.5m a year — and are prepared to listen to offers of £7m for the
31-year-old striker.
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West Ham United unveil one-off £90 kit for their friendly against
Juventus... and it's not even their first game at the Olympic Stadium
West Ham play Domzale in Olympic Stadium opener on Thursday
Irons then face Juventus in a home pre-season match on Sunday
The club are releasing a one-off strip for game against Italians
Dark blue Thames Ironworks-inspired kit will cost fans £90
By JOHN DOWNES FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:31, 1 August 2016 | UPDATED: 10:59, 1 August 2016
West Ham United have unveiled a one-off £90 kit for their friendly against
Juventus... and it's not even their first game at the Olympic Stadium. The
Hammers have collaborated with official kit supplier Umbro, and principal
sponsor Betway, to create a special, limited edition all-dark blue kit to
kick off the club's journey at their new abode. But the price, combined
with the fact that the kit will be retired after the pre-season match - West
Ham's second game at the Olympic Stadium - is sure to rile footballing
purists. Following their 2-1 away defeat to Domzale in their Europa League
third qualifying round first leg tie at Stadion Stozice last Thursday, West
Ham host the Slovenians in the return fixture in Stratford this Thursday.
The club - famed for their claret and blue home strip - will then wear the
one-off kit during their Betway Cup clash against the Old Lady on Sunday.
The unique design is said to be inspired by the all-blue Thames Ironworks
kit worn in the 1890s.
Thames Ironworks, who would later become West Ham United, were founded by
Arnold Hills and the move from the Boleyn Ground to Olympic Stadium is seen
as a continuation of his vision. The east Londoners' sponsors have released
a YouTube video to give their supporters a first glimpse of the new design,
which features a highlights reel including club legends Bobby Moore and
Paolo Di Canio. The video, narrated with the story of Hills, Thames
Ironworks and West Ham's journey, ends with captain Mark Noble unveiling the
shirt alongside striker Andy Carroll and left back Aaron Cresswell.
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West Ham transfer news: Arsenal reject Hammers loan move for Kieran Gibbs
EXCLUSIVE
KEN DYER
Evening Standard
West Ham have had a loan bid for Kieran Gibbs rejected by Arsenal as they
search for an experienced left-back to replace the injured Aaron Cresswell.
The Hammers have also lodged a bid of up to £20million with Swansea for
their striker Andre Ayew as they look to beef up their squad before the new
Premier League season. Cresswell will be out for up to four months after
injuring his knee in a pre-season match in Austria and manager Slaven Bilic
is anxious to bring in a replacement. Gibbs, who lost his place in Arsenal's
first team to Nacho Monreal last season, was a prime target but West Ham's
north London rivals have turned down their first bid.
The Hammers may look elsewhere, with Norwich City's 28-year-old Sweden
international Martin Olsson on their radar. Olsson lost a regular place in
the Norwich team last season to Republic of Ireland international Robbie
Brady, another player who has interested West Ham, and the relegated club
are open to a deal for a player in the final year of his contract.
Two other options are Hull's Scotland international Andrew Robertson, 22,
and 22-year-old Sweden defender Ludwig Augustinsson, who plays for Danish
club FC Copenhagen.
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Revealed: How West Ham owners are free to cash in on Olympic Stadium deal
CITYAM
Frank Dalleres and Oliver Gill
West Ham United's complex deal for the Olympic Stadium, the full details of
which are laid bare for the first time today, could make the football club's
wealthy owners even richer than previously thought – at the expense of the
taxpayer.
As the Hammers prepare to play their first match at the largely
public-funded £700m venue this week, new analysis by City A.M. has revealed
the extent to which billionaire David Sullivan and co-owner David Gold, who
is worth an estimated £350m, are free to cash in on the deal.
Legacy chiefs, who negotiated the contract with West Ham, were sufficiently
concerned that Sullivan and Gold might make a quick fortune by selling up
soon after relocating to the iconic stadium that their lease contains
provision to recoup a percentage of any sale price to the public purse.
But closer examination of the contract, which was the subject of a legal
fight over attempts to suppress it, reveals that provision to be weaker than
first reported – because debts can be offset against any sale. This means
that Sullivan and Gold could bank a profit of around £31m without paying
back a penny.
West Ham say 67-year-old Sullivan and 79-year-old Gold have no plans to
sell, but their resolve could be tested as the club becomes more valuable
than ever – thanks to their gleaming new home in a coveted location – and as
foreign investors increasingly circle England's top clubs.
The east London team's 99-year lease to be the main users of the
60,000-seater stadium for just £2.5m a year – a shade over the average
top-flight player's salary – plus a one-off payment of £15m has been
described as "winning the lottery" by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
It could represent a personal windfall for their owners too, despite a
clause requiring shareholders to repay a percentage to the public purse.
That clause takes effect if the club is sold in a deal valuing it at £125m
or more during the next 10 years.
The threshold would likely be met, with West Ham valued at around £200m last
year. That figure looks conservative now, due to the stadium move and a new
era of stable profitability among Premier League sides boosting their values
across the division.
Crucially, however, West Ham's contract with E20 Stadium LLP, a partnership
between the London Legacy Development Corporation and Newham Council, states
that the club's debt – much of which is owed to the owners – is offset
against the value of any sale.
And with debt of £91m in the most recent accounts, it effectively means the
sale price would need to be far higher to trigger a taxpayer return.
The precise sums fluctuate depending on the club's debt and when any
hypothetical sale takes place, but are indicative of the owners' strong
position. Sullivan and Gold are also entitled to receive interest on their
shareholder loans at a rate of between six and seven per cent, which is
either paid in cash or added to the outstanding debt.
If it took place now, even a £215m sale would fail to earn the taxpayer a
penny, based on the club's most up-to-date available financial information.
Sullivan and Gold, meanwhile, would stand to pocket at least £165m – a
profit of around £31m on their investment – in that scenario.
A sale at a higher price would see some money trickle back to the public
purse, but only a fraction of the take secured by long-time business
associates Sullivan and Gold, who own 86.2 per cent of shares between them.
A £250m sale would bank the pair £193m – a profit of at least £59m. By
contrast, just £2.8m would return to the taxpayer. That is around one per
cent of the £272m cost of converting the Olympic Stadium into a
football-ready, 60,000-seat arena following London 2012.
Were Sullivan and Gold to sell in a £300m deal, they would take £231m,
representing a £97m profit. Less than £9m – £1.5m short of what the Hammers
paid for star player Dimitri Payet last summer – would flow back to the
taxpayer. From a £350m sale, Sullivan and Gold would take £265m – a profit
of £131m – while the public purse would receive £19m.
A spokesperson for West Ham told City A.M.: "This is a moot point because
the chairmen have no intention of selling."
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) declined to comment.
Sullivan reiterated in December that he and Gold were not looking to sell,
although he conceded that they might be tempted if a wealthy individual made
them a huge offer.
"We have zero desire to sell the club unless the king of Saudi Arabia or the
Sultan of Brunei come along. We're not going to sell to an American or
Chinese consortium," he told Sky Sports.
"We might sell a minority shareholding to clear our debts, but in all
probability our kids will take over from us. We love West Ham; we're not
going anywhere."
Gold has argued that West Ham's use of the stadium, which begins on Thursday
when they play Slovenian side NK Domzale in a Europa League qualifying
match, will prevent it from becoming a white elephant.
Full details of West Ham's contract for the stadium were only published in
April after the LLDC accepted defeat in its legal fight with a football
supporters' coalition to keep some of the details secret.
How it works: West Ham's Olympic Stadium contract
West Ham's 99-year lease for the Olympic Stadium contains a clause
stipulating that a percentage of the proceeds of any sale of the club should
go back to the public purse.
In simplified terms, it means that any sale that values the club at £125m or
more triggers a repayment of somewhere between 7.5 per cent and 30 per cent,
with more punitive rates the higher the price tag and if the deal takes
place before summer 2021. A sale after that would not trigger a repayment.
However, the percentage is applied not to the value of the deal but to an
"adjusted consideration", offset against the club's debt. This means that if
there are substantial debts to pay off first, the sale value would need to
significantly exceed £125m before the repayment clause was activated and the
taxpayer saw any return.
The club's debt, owed in the main to David Sullivan and David Gold, stood at
£91m when accounts were filed in November. Using that figure, if West Ham
were sold today it would take an offer of more than £215m before any
repayment was triggered.
The owners: David Sullivan
The club's largest shareholder, with 51.1 per cent, made his first million
in pornography, co-founded the Sunday Sport with David Gold and now boasts a
£1bn fortune. The son of an RAF serviceman is originally from Cardiff but
moved to London aged 12 and gained a degree in economics from Queen Mary
University. Before buying their boyhood club, he and Gold owned Birmingham
City for 26 years. His investment company Conegate owns prime London
property and his motto, according to a 2009 interview, is: "What's in it for
me?"
The owners: David Gold
East-Ender Gold, who owns 35.1 per cent, has been in business with Sullivan
for 30 years, at Sport Newspapers and Birmingham City before they took
stakes in their beloved West Ham in 2010. He grew up yards from the club's
Upton Park stadium – their home until this summer's move – and played for
their youth team. Like Sullivan, early ventures included an adult magazine
business; now Gold Group International owns the Ann Summers and Knickerbox
chains, run by his daughters Jacqueline and Vanessa, and he is worth an
estimated £350m.
Manchester City and the rising value of English clubs
Inheriting a state-funded venue on the cheap can help to transform a
football club, as Manchester City have found.
They moved into the City of Manchester Stadium in 2003 on a 250-year lease
in exchange for a £20m one-off fee, the keys to their former ground and
annual rent of around £4m.
A shiny new home made City more attractive to investors, and they were sold
to former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra four years later. Just 12 months
on he sold to Sheikh Mansour of Abu Dhabi, whose vast wealth has turned the
club into one of the richest in the world.
It's not only their new home that could make West Ham a takeover target.
Soaring revenue from TV contracts has spawned a new era of profitability for
Premier League teams, and that has rekindled the interest of investors.
Manchester City, Crystal Palace, Swansea and Everton have all seen full or
partial buyouts in the last year alone, and analysts predict demand for
English clubs will continue to grow.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 2
Monday, August 1
Daily WHUFC News - 1st August 2016
New deal for Darren
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Darren Randolph has signed a
new four-year contact with the Club. The Republic of Ireland goalkeeper
continued his superb 2016 by putting pen to paper at the Hammers' new Rush
Green training base on Sunday. After impressing for both Club and country,
the 29-year-old is happy to have secured his long-term future as Slaven
Bilic's side prepare to move into their 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Buy Darren Randolph's 2016/17 Goalkeeper Kit now! "I've had a good first
year at West Ham and this is another positive thing to happen to me at the
end of a good first season and a good summer with Ireland," he told
whufc.com. "It has gone better than I could have ever expected at West Ham
since I joined last summer, playing as many games as I did and then starting
for Ireland in the Play-off and at Euro 2016. "Signing a new contract means
I want to stay here for a long time and be part of what is going on with the
Club, moving into a new Stadium and a new Training Ground – it's all very
positive and exciting."
Randolph is one of two top-class goalkeepers vying for the starting spot in
Bilic's team, along with Spaniard Adrian. The pair worked superbly together
under goalkeeper coach Chris Woods last season and the Bray-born stopper is
looking forward to competing with Adrian for a place in the team again this
term.
"I spoke to the manager and I know we both have the opportunity to work
towards that No1 position, which was part of the reason I was happy to sign
a new contract," Randolph revealed. "It is good to know I have the
manager's backing and it certainly helps my confidence to know he believes
in what I can do."
Randolph returned to training and pre-season duty after a short post-Euro
2016 break, having excelled during Ireland's run to the Round of 16. With
West Ham taking on NK Domzale in a must-win UEFA Europa League third
qualifying round second leg on Thursday and Juventus visiting in the Betway
Cup on Sunday, the agile stopper is set to make his London Stadium bow this
week. "Everyone wants to get back on the pitch as soon as possible and put
things right after what happened in Slovenia," he conceded. "We all want to
get the win we need to get through and we have the chance to do that on
Thursday night. Then we have Juventus on Sunday, so hopefully I'll get to
pull on the gloves and play my part at our new home."
After a summer on the road in France, Austria and Slovenia, Randolph and his
teammates – who also visited the United States – have started life at the
Club's smart new training centre in Rush Green. "It's very nice," Randolph
revealed. "Coming into the building for the first time since all the work
has been done, it's much bigger than the one at Chadwell Heath and is a
nice, positive environment in which to work. "While travelling is enjoyable,
it is good to be back into the routine and training every day in familiar
surroundings. Rush Green has a nice feel to it. "We are back to normality,
if you like, and with all the same faces around it feels like we have never
been away!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley - It was a step too far
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley felt the test VVV-Venlo provided on Saturday was a step too
far for his young Hammers
The Academy boss was speaking after a 6-1 defeat in the Netherlands
Marcus Browne's performance was highlighted as a positive to come from the
game
Academy manager Terry Westley admitted his side's clash against Dutch outfit
VVV-Venlo was a step too far for a number of the young players.
The Development Squad took on Venlo at their Seacon Stadion – De Koel on
Saturday but were comfortably beaten 6-1 by the second division team who put
out their strongest XI.
The Hammers fielded a number of 15, 16 and 17-year-olds in the fixture which
marked the end of their pre-season trip to the Netherlands.
And Westley felt West Ham's partner club provided the squad with an
extremely tough test.
He said: "They are a good side, which I knew because I've seen them play
maybe six times. I knew the quality they have got and they'll challenge for
promotion this year. It was a step too far for some of our younger ones, and
it was men against boys at times.
"We have also been training very hard, which made the game difficult. Their
season starts next week, so they've eased down before the game. The manager
went full-blooded and fielded a very strong side.
"There are some real lessons to be learnt and the boys have to come and dust
themselves down and be ready to get back to training on Tuesday."
A number of players arrived in Holland on the morning of the match having
left first team duty with Slaven Bilic's squad, with goalscorer Toni
Martinez included.
Westley pinpointed some positives that came from the match from his point of
view.
"As long as the boys – and the staff – learn from this match, in the long
run it can only do us good," he continued. "I talk about personality and did
they show any personality? I have to say, Marcus Browne who came out with us
here for the game, came through the game with flying colours. He was
aggressive with and without the ball.
"Too many of the younger boys didn't change their expression on the pitch,
and when you're going under, you need to do something about it. Marcus did
that, and maybe the two goalkeepers as well.
"If any centre-forward scores 20 plus goals a season, that is fantastic so
it was pleasing to see Toni Martinez get on the scoresheet. It wasn't an
easy game, especially for the boys who arrived on the morning of the game,
and Toni was one of those.
"If you're playing and scoring, people will talk about you. Toni looks like
a finisher and that is his game. He has power in and around the box. If he
sees the goal, he has a shot."
The link between the Hammers and VVV-Venlo will continue to see young
players head to Holland on loan, as defender Sam Westley did last season,
and the boss wished his opponents well for the campaign ahead.
"I hope that Venlo go into their season with lots of confidence – they
should do! – so we have helped them in one way. It just shows you, if you
want to come on loan here to help Venlo, you have to be a good player. You
can see the quality they have."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph signs four-year contract
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Irish international Darren Randolph has signed a four-year contract with
West Ham, tying him to the club until 2020. The 28-year-old, who enjoyed an
excellent Euro 16 campaign signed for West Ham on a free transfer from
Birmingham last summer as replacement for the outgoing Jussi Jaaskelainen.
"I want to stay here for a long time and be part of what is going on with
the club," Randolph told whufc.com. "It's all very positive and exciting. "I
spoke to the manager and I know I have the opportunity to work towards that
number one position, which was part of the reason I was happy to sign a new
contract. "It is good to know I have the manager's backing and it certainly
helps my confidence to know he believes in what I can do." Since joining the
club as deputy to Adrian, the softly-spoken stopper has made 26 appearances
for West Ham - inlcuing a run in last season's FA Cup, for which he was
Slaven Bilic's first choice.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho close to Albion move
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho is on the verge of joining West Bromwich Albion - in a deal
worth up to £16million. The out-of-favour Sengalese international is poised
to join Albion after the two clubs finally agreed a deal on Friday,
according to a KUMB source. Sakho, 26, is expected to cost the Baggies
around £10million up front with a host of clauses attached - taking the
potential final fee to circa £16million, within £2.5million of West Ham's
transfer record. With the deal for Sakho close to completion, West Ham are
expected to confirm a deal for Argentine striker Johnathan Calleri (see
below) on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old striker spent the latter half
of last season on loan at Sao Paolo but is set to move to London after
accepting an offer from West Ham to move to the Premier League.
Meanwhile the club hope to push through a deal for Swansea striker Andre
Ayew - who has been the subject of a £20million bid by the Hammers,
according to reports from elsewhere this lunchtime - whilst Milan's Carlos
Bacca is still contemplating a move to east London.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Saido Berahino set to leave West Brom after Diafra Sakho agrees to join
John Percy
31 JULY 2016 • 6:58PM
The Telegraph
West Bromwich Albion are ready to offload Saido Berahino after agreeing a
£15million deal with West Ham for Diafra Sakho. Berahino will be cleared to
complete a move away from the Hawthorns as Tony Pulis closes in on a club
record deal for Sakho, the Senegal international. Stoke and Crystal Palace
have both made offers worth around £20million for Berahino and his unhappy
12 months is coming to an end, with a move likely this week. The most
expensive football transfers of all timePlay! 00:36 Sakho is expected to
officially sign for West Brom in the next 48 hours and the deal will beat
the club's previous record of £12million for Salomon Rondon. West Brom have
also stepped up their interest in Leicester defender Jeffrey Schlupp and
tabled an improved offer of £10million. Leicester rejected an opening bid
earlier this month but Pulis has returned with another proposal after
identifying Schlupp as the man to solve his problematic left-back position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer round-up; Baggies bid for Sakho; Real Madrid player
linked; interest in Manchester United left-back
HITC
Antony Martin
A select round-up of the latest West Ham United news...
West Bromwich Albion have a agreed a fee of £16 million with West Ham United
for the services of Diafra Sakho, according to Sky Sports. The 26-year-old
has been heavily linked with an exit all summer after falling down the
pecking order at the club. Meanwhile, The Daily Mirror claim that the
Hammers have been alerted to the availability of Real Madrid stricker Jese,
with the Spaniard being touted around Europe for a fee in the region of £18
million.
Slaven Bilic could turn to Manchester United's Cameron Borthwick-Jackson in
a bid to solve his left-back crisis, according to The Sun. The newspaper
claim that the Hammers are interested in a loan deal for the 19-year-old.
While The Mirror claim that another left-back is on his way to West Ham -
Swedish star Ludwig Augustinsson in a deal worth around £5 million.
Darren Randolph has today signed a new four-year deal that will keep him at
the club until the summer of 2020, as confirmed on the club's official
website.
And finally, with speculation surrounding the Hammers' interest in Swansea
City forward Andre Ayew continuing to mount, French media outlet L'Equipe
are reporting today that the club have made an official bid of £20.25
million for the Ghanaian and are waiting to hear back from the Welsh club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sell-out West Ham crowd can help mark first game at Olympic Stadium with
Europa League comeback, says Sam Byram
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
West Ham's fans can help to inspire a Europa League turnaround during the
club's first ever game at the Olympic Stadium, according to Sam Byram.
Slaven Bilic's side suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale last week, which has left the Premier League club's hopes of
progressing to the group stages in jeopardy. The Hammers are expected to be
without several key men - including Dimitri Payet - but will have to rise to
the occasion on their debut at their new home if they are to avoid missing
out on European football for the second season in a row. And Byram believes
the home crowd, which is set to stand at 54,000, could have a big part to
play as he and his teammates attempt to overturn a one-goal deficit.
Obviously we are disappointed to lose the first [leg] but we are going to be
going into the new stadium," he told the Mirror. "With the crowd behind us
it will help us. "We will have another week's training and a lot of things
to work on but we will be going into the match full of energy and we are
really looking forward to it."
It has been suggested NK Domzale could be overawed by the occasion on
Thursday night but Byram is wary of Luka Elsner's side, who caused the
Hammers plenty of problems in the first leg. "I'm not too sure if playing
there will take them by surprise," said the 22-year-old. "They are
professional sports people and I'm sure some of them have played in higher
leagues and I think they will be relishing the challenge but so are we."
Byram is predominantly right sided but was fielded at left back in the first
leg after Aaron Cresswell was ruled out up to six months with a knee injury.
And the former Leeds United full back could be asked to do so again this
week with Bilic short of options until a replacement for Cresswell can be
found.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Darren Randolph has signed a
new four-year contact with the Club. The Republic of Ireland goalkeeper
continued his superb 2016 by putting pen to paper at the Hammers' new Rush
Green training base on Sunday. After impressing for both Club and country,
the 29-year-old is happy to have secured his long-term future as Slaven
Bilic's side prepare to move into their 60,000-capacity Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Buy Darren Randolph's 2016/17 Goalkeeper Kit now! "I've had a good first
year at West Ham and this is another positive thing to happen to me at the
end of a good first season and a good summer with Ireland," he told
whufc.com. "It has gone better than I could have ever expected at West Ham
since I joined last summer, playing as many games as I did and then starting
for Ireland in the Play-off and at Euro 2016. "Signing a new contract means
I want to stay here for a long time and be part of what is going on with the
Club, moving into a new Stadium and a new Training Ground – it's all very
positive and exciting."
Randolph is one of two top-class goalkeepers vying for the starting spot in
Bilic's team, along with Spaniard Adrian. The pair worked superbly together
under goalkeeper coach Chris Woods last season and the Bray-born stopper is
looking forward to competing with Adrian for a place in the team again this
term.
"I spoke to the manager and I know we both have the opportunity to work
towards that No1 position, which was part of the reason I was happy to sign
a new contract," Randolph revealed. "It is good to know I have the
manager's backing and it certainly helps my confidence to know he believes
in what I can do."
Randolph returned to training and pre-season duty after a short post-Euro
2016 break, having excelled during Ireland's run to the Round of 16. With
West Ham taking on NK Domzale in a must-win UEFA Europa League third
qualifying round second leg on Thursday and Juventus visiting in the Betway
Cup on Sunday, the agile stopper is set to make his London Stadium bow this
week. "Everyone wants to get back on the pitch as soon as possible and put
things right after what happened in Slovenia," he conceded. "We all want to
get the win we need to get through and we have the chance to do that on
Thursday night. Then we have Juventus on Sunday, so hopefully I'll get to
pull on the gloves and play my part at our new home."
After a summer on the road in France, Austria and Slovenia, Randolph and his
teammates – who also visited the United States – have started life at the
Club's smart new training centre in Rush Green. "It's very nice," Randolph
revealed. "Coming into the building for the first time since all the work
has been done, it's much bigger than the one at Chadwell Heath and is a
nice, positive environment in which to work. "While travelling is enjoyable,
it is good to be back into the routine and training every day in familiar
surroundings. Rush Green has a nice feel to it. "We are back to normality,
if you like, and with all the same faces around it feels like we have never
been away!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley - It was a step too far
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley felt the test VVV-Venlo provided on Saturday was a step too
far for his young Hammers
The Academy boss was speaking after a 6-1 defeat in the Netherlands
Marcus Browne's performance was highlighted as a positive to come from the
game
Academy manager Terry Westley admitted his side's clash against Dutch outfit
VVV-Venlo was a step too far for a number of the young players.
The Development Squad took on Venlo at their Seacon Stadion – De Koel on
Saturday but were comfortably beaten 6-1 by the second division team who put
out their strongest XI.
The Hammers fielded a number of 15, 16 and 17-year-olds in the fixture which
marked the end of their pre-season trip to the Netherlands.
And Westley felt West Ham's partner club provided the squad with an
extremely tough test.
He said: "They are a good side, which I knew because I've seen them play
maybe six times. I knew the quality they have got and they'll challenge for
promotion this year. It was a step too far for some of our younger ones, and
it was men against boys at times.
"We have also been training very hard, which made the game difficult. Their
season starts next week, so they've eased down before the game. The manager
went full-blooded and fielded a very strong side.
"There are some real lessons to be learnt and the boys have to come and dust
themselves down and be ready to get back to training on Tuesday."
A number of players arrived in Holland on the morning of the match having
left first team duty with Slaven Bilic's squad, with goalscorer Toni
Martinez included.
Westley pinpointed some positives that came from the match from his point of
view.
"As long as the boys – and the staff – learn from this match, in the long
run it can only do us good," he continued. "I talk about personality and did
they show any personality? I have to say, Marcus Browne who came out with us
here for the game, came through the game with flying colours. He was
aggressive with and without the ball.
"Too many of the younger boys didn't change their expression on the pitch,
and when you're going under, you need to do something about it. Marcus did
that, and maybe the two goalkeepers as well.
"If any centre-forward scores 20 plus goals a season, that is fantastic so
it was pleasing to see Toni Martinez get on the scoresheet. It wasn't an
easy game, especially for the boys who arrived on the morning of the game,
and Toni was one of those.
"If you're playing and scoring, people will talk about you. Toni looks like
a finisher and that is his game. He has power in and around the box. If he
sees the goal, he has a shot."
The link between the Hammers and VVV-Venlo will continue to see young
players head to Holland on loan, as defender Sam Westley did last season,
and the boss wished his opponents well for the campaign ahead.
"I hope that Venlo go into their season with lots of confidence – they
should do! – so we have helped them in one way. It just shows you, if you
want to come on loan here to help Venlo, you have to be a good player. You
can see the quality they have."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph signs four-year contract
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Irish international Darren Randolph has signed a four-year contract with
West Ham, tying him to the club until 2020. The 28-year-old, who enjoyed an
excellent Euro 16 campaign signed for West Ham on a free transfer from
Birmingham last summer as replacement for the outgoing Jussi Jaaskelainen.
"I want to stay here for a long time and be part of what is going on with
the club," Randolph told whufc.com. "It's all very positive and exciting. "I
spoke to the manager and I know I have the opportunity to work towards that
number one position, which was part of the reason I was happy to sign a new
contract. "It is good to know I have the manager's backing and it certainly
helps my confidence to know he believes in what I can do." Since joining the
club as deputy to Adrian, the softly-spoken stopper has made 26 appearances
for West Ham - inlcuing a run in last season's FA Cup, for which he was
Slaven Bilic's first choice.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho close to Albion move
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2016
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho is on the verge of joining West Bromwich Albion - in a deal
worth up to £16million. The out-of-favour Sengalese international is poised
to join Albion after the two clubs finally agreed a deal on Friday,
according to a KUMB source. Sakho, 26, is expected to cost the Baggies
around £10million up front with a host of clauses attached - taking the
potential final fee to circa £16million, within £2.5million of West Ham's
transfer record. With the deal for Sakho close to completion, West Ham are
expected to confirm a deal for Argentine striker Johnathan Calleri (see
below) on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old striker spent the latter half
of last season on loan at Sao Paolo but is set to move to London after
accepting an offer from West Ham to move to the Premier League.
Meanwhile the club hope to push through a deal for Swansea striker Andre
Ayew - who has been the subject of a £20million bid by the Hammers,
according to reports from elsewhere this lunchtime - whilst Milan's Carlos
Bacca is still contemplating a move to east London.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Saido Berahino set to leave West Brom after Diafra Sakho agrees to join
John Percy
31 JULY 2016 • 6:58PM
The Telegraph
West Bromwich Albion are ready to offload Saido Berahino after agreeing a
£15million deal with West Ham for Diafra Sakho. Berahino will be cleared to
complete a move away from the Hawthorns as Tony Pulis closes in on a club
record deal for Sakho, the Senegal international. Stoke and Crystal Palace
have both made offers worth around £20million for Berahino and his unhappy
12 months is coming to an end, with a move likely this week. The most
expensive football transfers of all timePlay! 00:36 Sakho is expected to
officially sign for West Brom in the next 48 hours and the deal will beat
the club's previous record of £12million for Salomon Rondon. West Brom have
also stepped up their interest in Leicester defender Jeffrey Schlupp and
tabled an improved offer of £10million. Leicester rejected an opening bid
earlier this month but Pulis has returned with another proposal after
identifying Schlupp as the man to solve his problematic left-back position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer round-up; Baggies bid for Sakho; Real Madrid player
linked; interest in Manchester United left-back
HITC
Antony Martin
A select round-up of the latest West Ham United news...
West Bromwich Albion have a agreed a fee of £16 million with West Ham United
for the services of Diafra Sakho, according to Sky Sports. The 26-year-old
has been heavily linked with an exit all summer after falling down the
pecking order at the club. Meanwhile, The Daily Mirror claim that the
Hammers have been alerted to the availability of Real Madrid stricker Jese,
with the Spaniard being touted around Europe for a fee in the region of £18
million.
Slaven Bilic could turn to Manchester United's Cameron Borthwick-Jackson in
a bid to solve his left-back crisis, according to The Sun. The newspaper
claim that the Hammers are interested in a loan deal for the 19-year-old.
While The Mirror claim that another left-back is on his way to West Ham -
Swedish star Ludwig Augustinsson in a deal worth around £5 million.
Darren Randolph has today signed a new four-year deal that will keep him at
the club until the summer of 2020, as confirmed on the club's official
website.
And finally, with speculation surrounding the Hammers' interest in Swansea
City forward Andre Ayew continuing to mount, French media outlet L'Equipe
are reporting today that the club have made an official bid of £20.25
million for the Ghanaian and are waiting to hear back from the Welsh club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sell-out West Ham crowd can help mark first game at Olympic Stadium with
Europa League comeback, says Sam Byram
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
West Ham's fans can help to inspire a Europa League turnaround during the
club's first ever game at the Olympic Stadium, according to Sam Byram.
Slaven Bilic's side suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale last week, which has left the Premier League club's hopes of
progressing to the group stages in jeopardy. The Hammers are expected to be
without several key men - including Dimitri Payet - but will have to rise to
the occasion on their debut at their new home if they are to avoid missing
out on European football for the second season in a row. And Byram believes
the home crowd, which is set to stand at 54,000, could have a big part to
play as he and his teammates attempt to overturn a one-goal deficit.
Obviously we are disappointed to lose the first [leg] but we are going to be
going into the new stadium," he told the Mirror. "With the crowd behind us
it will help us. "We will have another week's training and a lot of things
to work on but we will be going into the match full of energy and we are
really looking forward to it."
It has been suggested NK Domzale could be overawed by the occasion on
Thursday night but Byram is wary of Luka Elsner's side, who caused the
Hammers plenty of problems in the first leg. "I'm not too sure if playing
there will take them by surprise," said the 22-year-old. "They are
professional sports people and I'm sure some of them have played in higher
leagues and I think they will be relishing the challenge but so are we."
Byram is predominantly right sided but was fielded at left back in the first
leg after Aaron Cresswell was ruled out up to six months with a knee injury.
And the former Leeds United full back could be asked to do so again this
week with Bilic short of options until a replacement for Cresswell can be
found.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 31
Daily WHUFC News - 31st July 2016
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
The Joint-Chairman on the new Stadium, UEFA Europa League, injuries and
transfers...
It is an extremely busy time for everyone at West Ham United and I can
assure you that we are all working as hard as possible to ensure a
successful future for our Football Club. We are now less than a week away
from our historic first-ever home match at our new Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Hundreds of people have been putting in long days and nights to ensure the
Stadium is ready for our opening fixture against NK Domzale in the UEFA
Europa League, working 24-hours-a-day. There has been so much going on at
the Stadium these past few weeks, with the major work being to move the
relocatable seating into place so that our Season Ticket Holders can sit in
their regular Premier League seats for next Thursday's game. This has been a
major engineering project, but one we are confident will be completed to
everyone's satisfaction.
My Vice-Chairman Karren Brady welcomed VIP guests to the Stadium earlier
this week, including the family and friends of the late, great Bobby Moore,
former players and jounalists. They were given a tour of Club London and
also able to view the inside of the Stadium bowl from the Upper Tier of the
East Stand. The feedback I have received has been overwhelmingly positive,
with some being close to tears when they saw the scale of our new home.
Of course, if we are going to continue to grow our already enormous fanbase,
we need to play entertaining, winning football. On Thursday, we lost 2-1 to
Domzale in our UEFA Europa League third qualifying round first leg tie in
Slovenia, which we all admit was not good enough. I was certainly scratching
my head to explain why we couldn't hit our usual high levels of performance,
and I am sure Slaven and his coaching staff were too. We know we have to do
better next week – and we will. Tickets for the second leg are selling well,
with Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members taking us close to a sell out,
so I would urge you all to purchase your seat as soon as possible to ensure
you do not miss out on this unique occasion.
Any remaining tickets will go on General Sale on Saturday morning and are
expected to go quickly Thursday's performance and the injuries suffered by
Aaron Cresswell, Manuel Lanzini and Gokhan Tore have only increased our
eagerness to get deals done. There has been some good news with Manu, who we
hope will only miss three Premier League fixtures. We are very close to
bringing in a very promising striker who has scored goals regularly in his
career in competitive leagues. He will need time to settle, like every new
player, but we are confident he will add a lot to the squad.
We are also talking to another Premier League club about a top-class
international forward, but the discussions over financial terms still have
some way to go.
With Aaron unfortunately out for a few weeks, we have lodged bids in for a
left-back, one of which was an £8m bid which was turned down on Thursday. We
will now decide whether or not we increase that bid.
Watch this space.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium in full football mode for Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that the relocatable seating on all
four sides of London Stadium is now in place, which means the Hammers'
iconic new home will be operating in full football mode for both the UEFA
Europa League and the Betway Cup.
The Club have been working tirelessly with Stadium owners E20 Stadium LLP to
ensure that Season Ticket Holders have access to their chosen seasonal seat.
And thanks to the success of the accelerated process to move the relocatable
seats, every single seat in the lower tier will now be in use from day one,
with a maximum Stadium capacity of 54,000 for these first two fixtures.
This is the final step for the ramp up to the Stadium opening at its full
60,000 capacity for the eagerly-awaited opening Premier League fixture
against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday 21 August.
As a result of a great deal of hard work on our part and that of our
partners E20 Stadium LLP, Season Ticket Holders in Blocks 145-155 of the new
Bobby Moore Stand are now able to secure their seat for the return leg
against NK Domzale on Thursday 4 August via www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc or
over the telephone on 0871 529 1966*
Their priority window will run until 5pm on Saturday 30 July.
In the meantime, all remaining tickets elsewhere in the ground are to go on
General Sale from 9am Saturday 30 July.
Supporters are reminded that the return leg will not be televised in the UK
and so the only way to witness the Hammers' landmark curtain raiser at
London Stadium is by securing your seat here.
As for the Betway Cup showdown against Italian champions Juventus,
supporters will be pleased to learn that a number of additional tickets in
the lower tier have now been made available.
The prestigious fixture on Sunday 7 August, which will include the Stadium's
official opening ceremony, had been sold out for some months, but supporters
now have one final chance to get their hand on a ticket for the Hammers'
marquee friendly.
Juventus tickets are on General Sale from www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc or over
the telephone on 0871 529 1966*
*Calls are charged at 13p/min plus your phone provider's access charge.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three Hammers, Three Lions, One World Cup
WHUFC.com
Saturday 30 July is a date that will forever be part of England – and West
Ham United – folklore.
That day, three Hammers inspired the Three Lions to their greatest-ever
triumph, a triumph that has never been repeated – FIFA World Cup glory.
Inspirational captain Bobby Moore was the man who lifted the Jules Rimet
Trophy at Wembley Stadium that sunny afternoon 50 years ago, while hat-trick
hero Geoff Hurst and goalscorer Martin Peters were the men whose goals
helped England to win it.
More than 96,000 supporters inside the ground, and millions more watching
and listening across the country, enjoyed the finest day in England's
football history thanks to three humble young graduates of the Academy of
Football.
Moore was the boy from Barking who grew up to be his country's greatest
defender and captain; Hurst was the converted midfielder who Ron Greenwood
had turned into a prolific centre forward; Peters was the multi-talented
player who could line up anywhere and was considered ten years ahead of his
time.
Together, the trio took what they had learned on the lush green grass of
Chadwell Heath in Claret and Blue into the bright white of England on the
biggest day of their lives.
Moore's free-kick was headed in by Hurst to level after Helmut Haller's
opener before Peters put England on the cusp of winning the cup in normal
time with his 78th-minute shot.
Wolfgang Weber equalised with a minute to go, but England would not be
denied as Hurst scored twice – the first a disputed effort that bounced down
off the underside of the crossbar, and the second an emphatic last-gasp
finish while fans spilled onto the pitch.
Five decades on, England have yet to repeat the triumph, and here West Ham's
two surviving World Cup winners share their memories of a truly
unforgettable afternoon.
The hat-trick hero
Sir Geoff Hurst scored after 18, 101 and 120 minutes to complete the first –
and only – FIFA World Cup final treble…
"Scoring three goals and losing would have meant absolutely nothing to me.
I think my first was the most important goal and I've always said that. My
celebration was a combination of 'I'm here, I'm ready, I'm myself now and
I've justified my place. That stupid 'knees in the air' thing I did was an
expression of 'I'm really here'.
"The disputed goal, from a technical point of view, was a good goal. To get
the power on it, I had to lean back and I'm almost sitting on my bum to get
the power. The ball bounced behind the goalkeeper Tilkowski, so I had the
worst view in the stadium.
"The Swiss referee then consulted the Russian linesman and they couldn't
speak a common language. God knows what they were talking about!
"We were then hanging on 3-2 with seconds to go and the last cross of the
afternoon was put in by Willi Schulz on the right wing and the ball was
going to bounce in a very dangerous position. Who was there who has great
technique and reading of the game ability? Bobby Moore, of course.
"What does he do? He chests the ball down in the middle of the penalty area
in a World Cup final. His centre-half partner Jackie Charlton of Leeds would
have dealt with this in a slightly different way and he was heard to shout
across to Mooro: 'Robert, will you please kick the ball out of the ground!'.
"What Bobby was also good at was hitting the front player. Overath was going
to catch me because he didn't have the ball and I did, but then there was a
call from the other side of the pitch [from Alan Ball] of 'Hursty, give me
the ball' and that call disturbed the German defence.
"It could have gone beyond the bar and into the stand, into the crowd, and
by the time the ball boy had got the ball back to Tilkowski and he had hit
it upfield, the game would have been over.
"My feeling was one of relief and then 'Did the last goal count?' so I went
back out on the pitch in my suit and looked at the scoreboard and it said
'4-2' and I realised that it had counted."
The man of the moment
Plaistow-born Martin Peters MBE had only made his England debut in May 1966
and now the Hammers midfielder was a national hero…
"It's so difficult to explain how I felt, but I can tell you how the goal
came about. There were 12 minutes to go and Alan Ball had won a corner on
the right.
"The little guy went out to take the corner and he hit it to the far post. I
had a position on the near post where Alf Ramsey got me to stay.
"It actually went right over the far post and out of the box and Geoff Hurst
got onto the ball and maybe he should have passed but he shot. It was a
rubbish shot to be honest with you and it hit the full-back called Hoettges
on the leg and circled across the edge of the box.
"I had pulled out from my position on the near post to the edge of the box
and, as it came, I thought 'Oh God, it's coming to me, keep your knee over
the ball, like Ron Greenwood had told you at West Ham, and make sure it
doesn't go over the bar.
"As I hit it, the goalkeeper went one way and the full-back Schnellinger
went the other and it went down the middle and hit the back of the net.
"I was up and running and everyone was jumping all over me. Even now when I
talk about it, it gives me a thrill to think about scoring in the World Cup
final."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad beaten by strong Dutch outfit
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad faced a strong VVV-Venlo side on Saturday and were
beaten 6-1.
The Hammers equalised early in the second half through Toni Martinez after
they had fallen behind inside ten minutes, but the remaining action in the
second period was dominated by the hosts.
Substitutions were made and as the game lost its flow, Venlo capitalised on
some lapses in concentration to comfortably see out the game.
In a tight first half, it was the hosts who drew blood first, though the
Hammers had come close through Marcus Browne.
A long through ball from the back was collected in the right channel, and a
pinpoint cross allowed Torino Hunte to tap in.
And Nathan Trott was to thank midway through the first period as he flung
down to his right to superbly deny what looked a certain goal from a
six-yard header.
In the second half, Browne was again involved in the Irons' good play as he
drew a foul 20 yards from goal. Toni Martinez – who had just joined the
squad for the clash – took responsibility and fired low into the bottom left
corner to level the scores.
But soon, the Eerste Divisie team took control and put themselves beyond
reach of Terry Westley's young side – which contained a number of 15 and
16-year-olds.
Nathan Trott made good saves in the build up to Venlo's second and third
goals but could not deny the rebounds which were put away.
Vito van Crooij pounced to grab Venlo's second, while Tim Receveur was there
to find the back of the net soon after.
With half an hour remaining, Venlo scored with the model counter attacking
goal. Snatching the ball back from West Ham – who were themselves looking to
get back in the game – the Dutch side attacked fast and van Crooij was there
to finish an excellent move.
Receveur slid in at the back post to fire past Trott for the fifth, before
Hunte got himself on the scoresheet again, nodding over the line after Venlo
had previously struck the crossbar.
The two simple finishes completed the scoring at the Seacon Stadion – De
Koel to hand Venlo the victory against their partner club.
VVV-Venlo Squad: Maarten de Fockert, Moreno Rutten, Jerold Promes, Roel
Janssen, Danny Post, Vito van Crooij, Clint Leemans, Ralf Seuntjens,
Johnatan Opoku, Nils Roseler, Torino Hunte, Delano van Crooij, Leandro
Resida, Tim Receveur, Tristan Dekker, Roy Oomen, Lugman Bezzat, Roy Gielen
Dev Squad: Nathan Trott (Sam Howes 65), Sam Westley (Matt Carter 52), Josh
Pask, Tunji Akinola, Mason Barrett (Kristjian Belic 70), Diego Poyet (Janaai
Gordon 65), Moses Makasi (Noha Sylvestre 52), Dan Kemp (Jahmal Hector-Ingram
46), Marcus Browne (Conor Coventry 80), Grady Diangana (Joe Powell 61), Toni
Martinez (Alfie Lewis 71)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make enquiry for Swansea's Andre Ayew - Sky sources
Hammers also closing in on Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 29/07/16 5:27pm
West Ham have enquired into the availability of Swansea forward Andre Ayew,
according to Sky sources. The Hammers are yet to lodge an official bid for
the 26-year-old, who is understood to be valued by Swansea at £20m. Ayew
attracted interest from West Ham last summer, but joined the Swans on a free
transfer and went on to score 12 goals during his debut season in the
Premier League. The Ghana international, who is contracted to Swansea until
2019, is currently one of only two senior forwards at the club following the
departure of Bafetimbi Gomis to Marseille on a season-long loan. Swansea
hope to sign two strikers before the close of the summer transfer window and
it is understood they will not entertain the possibility of selling Ayew
until they have acquired attacking reinforcements.
Slaven Bilic is worried his West Ham squad is not big enough for the rigours
of the upcoming season… Meanwhile, Sky sources also understand West Ham are
closing in on the loan signing of Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri from
Boca Juniors. A deal for the 22-year-old is nearing completion, but an
announcement is not imminent. Calleri spent last season on loan at Brazilian
club Sao Paolo and scored 16 goals in 31 appearances.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hull turn down West Ham's £7m transfer bid for Andrew Robertson
By Keith Downie, Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 29/07/16 5:52pm
SSN
West Ham have had a £7m bid turned down by Hull City for Scotland left-back
Andrew Robertson, according to Sky sources.
The Hammers have been forced into the left-back market after Aaron Cresswell
was injured for up to four months with knee ligament damage on Monday.
Creswell missed just one Premier League game over the past two seasons but
was left writhing in agony in the closing stages of Saturday's pre-season
win over German side Karlsruher in Austria.
Robertson, 22, was instrumental in Hull's promotion campaign to the Premier
League last term, making 52 appearances in all competitions and scoring four
goals.
He signed for Hull from Dundee United for £2.8m in 2014 and has gone on to
play 77 times for the Tigers. Glasgow-born Robertson also has 10 caps for
Scotland.
West Ham have been plagued with injury problems already in pre-season, with
Manuel Lanzini suffering a knee injury with Argentina ahead of the Olympic
Games in Rio.
Summer signing Gokhan Tore also needs a scan on his own knee problem after
being hurt in training on Monday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham don't need to sell Dimitri Payet claims club legend Tony Cottee
22:30, 30 JUL 2016
BY STEVE STAMMERS
Under the regime of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady, West Ham
have been transformed and, for Cottee, that means the end of the "selling
club" reputation
The Mirror
Tony Cottee was a high-profile member of the famed production line of
home-grown talent at West Ham . But he left no doubt about the direction
his career would have taken, had the club enjoyed in 1988 the status it does
now. "Quite simply, I would never have left," he said. "Simple as that."
Under the regime of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady, West Ham
have been transformed and, for Cottee, that means the end of the "selling
club" reputation. "That is what West Ham have been in the past," said
Cottee, a prolific goalscorer in two spells at West Ham. "But those days are
gone. Long gone." "The days when the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Joe Cole,
Frank Lampard and Glenn Johnson and Jermain Defoe HAD to be sold are long
gone."
Cottee is hugely optimistic about the future now the club have relocated to
the Olympic Stadium, with its 55,000 capacity. "It is fantastic," said
Cottee. "It is real progress and it is a huge step forward for the club.
"With all the money that is in football now, West Ham can pay top wages and
the players can play in a marvellous arena. "Why would the likes of Dimitri
Payet want to leave? "The squad is strong and were close to qualifying for
the Champions League last season. There is no reason to leave an environment
like this. West Ham don't have to sell any more – and that is why I can see
someone like Mark Noble staying here for the rest of his career."
That was once an ambition of Cottee's. He saw great prospects ahead, back in
1986 when the club finished third in the old First Division. "That was a
great side," recalled Cottee. "I thought it was the ideal chance to push on
and win the title in the future, but it never happened." "I had the chance
to join either Everton or Arsenal – both teams who push for the title on an
annual basis. "I had also just got into the England set-up and you heard the
Manchester United, Liverpool and Everton players talking about
championships. "I wanted to taste that and, to be fair, John Lyall, the
manager at the time, understood. "But if John had been able to work with the
finances now and send his team out to that stadium, West Ham would have had
more success – and I would never have left."
Cottee is a season-ticket holder at the newly-renamed London Stadium. "It is
a club now ready to compete with the best, not only in London – but also the
rest of the country."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
est Ham closing on £5million signing of Sweden left-back Ludwig Augustinsson
22:30, 30 JUL 2016
BY FOOTBALL SPY
Aaron Cresswell has been sidelined for around four months and West Ham have
stepped up their efforts to get the deal for Augustinsson done
The Mirror
West Ham are closing in on £5million Sweden left-back Ludwig Augustinsson.
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic was ready to move for the FC Copenhagen defender
before Aaron Cresswell 's injury. The plan was to take him to the London
Stadium as back-up to one of the most consistent left-backs in the top
flight. But Cresswell has been sidelined for around four months after
suffering knee ligament damage and West Ham have stepped up their efforts to
get the deal for Augustinsson done. The 22-year-old started his career at
IFK Gothenburg, featuring 29 times before his switch to FC Copenhagen 18
months ago.
Augustinsson has been a regular for the Danish giants, with his exploits
catching the eye of the Hammers.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
The Joint-Chairman on the new Stadium, UEFA Europa League, injuries and
transfers...
It is an extremely busy time for everyone at West Ham United and I can
assure you that we are all working as hard as possible to ensure a
successful future for our Football Club. We are now less than a week away
from our historic first-ever home match at our new Stadium on Queen
Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Hundreds of people have been putting in long days and nights to ensure the
Stadium is ready for our opening fixture against NK Domzale in the UEFA
Europa League, working 24-hours-a-day. There has been so much going on at
the Stadium these past few weeks, with the major work being to move the
relocatable seating into place so that our Season Ticket Holders can sit in
their regular Premier League seats for next Thursday's game. This has been a
major engineering project, but one we are confident will be completed to
everyone's satisfaction.
My Vice-Chairman Karren Brady welcomed VIP guests to the Stadium earlier
this week, including the family and friends of the late, great Bobby Moore,
former players and jounalists. They were given a tour of Club London and
also able to view the inside of the Stadium bowl from the Upper Tier of the
East Stand. The feedback I have received has been overwhelmingly positive,
with some being close to tears when they saw the scale of our new home.
Of course, if we are going to continue to grow our already enormous fanbase,
we need to play entertaining, winning football. On Thursday, we lost 2-1 to
Domzale in our UEFA Europa League third qualifying round first leg tie in
Slovenia, which we all admit was not good enough. I was certainly scratching
my head to explain why we couldn't hit our usual high levels of performance,
and I am sure Slaven and his coaching staff were too. We know we have to do
better next week – and we will. Tickets for the second leg are selling well,
with Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members taking us close to a sell out,
so I would urge you all to purchase your seat as soon as possible to ensure
you do not miss out on this unique occasion.
Any remaining tickets will go on General Sale on Saturday morning and are
expected to go quickly Thursday's performance and the injuries suffered by
Aaron Cresswell, Manuel Lanzini and Gokhan Tore have only increased our
eagerness to get deals done. There has been some good news with Manu, who we
hope will only miss three Premier League fixtures. We are very close to
bringing in a very promising striker who has scored goals regularly in his
career in competitive leagues. He will need time to settle, like every new
player, but we are confident he will add a lot to the squad.
We are also talking to another Premier League club about a top-class
international forward, but the discussions over financial terms still have
some way to go.
With Aaron unfortunately out for a few weeks, we have lodged bids in for a
left-back, one of which was an £8m bid which was turned down on Thursday. We
will now decide whether or not we increase that bid.
Watch this space.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium in full football mode for Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that the relocatable seating on all
four sides of London Stadium is now in place, which means the Hammers'
iconic new home will be operating in full football mode for both the UEFA
Europa League and the Betway Cup.
The Club have been working tirelessly with Stadium owners E20 Stadium LLP to
ensure that Season Ticket Holders have access to their chosen seasonal seat.
And thanks to the success of the accelerated process to move the relocatable
seats, every single seat in the lower tier will now be in use from day one,
with a maximum Stadium capacity of 54,000 for these first two fixtures.
This is the final step for the ramp up to the Stadium opening at its full
60,000 capacity for the eagerly-awaited opening Premier League fixture
against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday 21 August.
As a result of a great deal of hard work on our part and that of our
partners E20 Stadium LLP, Season Ticket Holders in Blocks 145-155 of the new
Bobby Moore Stand are now able to secure their seat for the return leg
against NK Domzale on Thursday 4 August via www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc or
over the telephone on 0871 529 1966*
Their priority window will run until 5pm on Saturday 30 July.
In the meantime, all remaining tickets elsewhere in the ground are to go on
General Sale from 9am Saturday 30 July.
Supporters are reminded that the return leg will not be televised in the UK
and so the only way to witness the Hammers' landmark curtain raiser at
London Stadium is by securing your seat here.
As for the Betway Cup showdown against Italian champions Juventus,
supporters will be pleased to learn that a number of additional tickets in
the lower tier have now been made available.
The prestigious fixture on Sunday 7 August, which will include the Stadium's
official opening ceremony, had been sold out for some months, but supporters
now have one final chance to get their hand on a ticket for the Hammers'
marquee friendly.
Juventus tickets are on General Sale from www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc or over
the telephone on 0871 529 1966*
*Calls are charged at 13p/min plus your phone provider's access charge.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three Hammers, Three Lions, One World Cup
WHUFC.com
Saturday 30 July is a date that will forever be part of England – and West
Ham United – folklore.
That day, three Hammers inspired the Three Lions to their greatest-ever
triumph, a triumph that has never been repeated – FIFA World Cup glory.
Inspirational captain Bobby Moore was the man who lifted the Jules Rimet
Trophy at Wembley Stadium that sunny afternoon 50 years ago, while hat-trick
hero Geoff Hurst and goalscorer Martin Peters were the men whose goals
helped England to win it.
More than 96,000 supporters inside the ground, and millions more watching
and listening across the country, enjoyed the finest day in England's
football history thanks to three humble young graduates of the Academy of
Football.
Moore was the boy from Barking who grew up to be his country's greatest
defender and captain; Hurst was the converted midfielder who Ron Greenwood
had turned into a prolific centre forward; Peters was the multi-talented
player who could line up anywhere and was considered ten years ahead of his
time.
Together, the trio took what they had learned on the lush green grass of
Chadwell Heath in Claret and Blue into the bright white of England on the
biggest day of their lives.
Moore's free-kick was headed in by Hurst to level after Helmut Haller's
opener before Peters put England on the cusp of winning the cup in normal
time with his 78th-minute shot.
Wolfgang Weber equalised with a minute to go, but England would not be
denied as Hurst scored twice – the first a disputed effort that bounced down
off the underside of the crossbar, and the second an emphatic last-gasp
finish while fans spilled onto the pitch.
Five decades on, England have yet to repeat the triumph, and here West Ham's
two surviving World Cup winners share their memories of a truly
unforgettable afternoon.
The hat-trick hero
Sir Geoff Hurst scored after 18, 101 and 120 minutes to complete the first –
and only – FIFA World Cup final treble…
"Scoring three goals and losing would have meant absolutely nothing to me.
I think my first was the most important goal and I've always said that. My
celebration was a combination of 'I'm here, I'm ready, I'm myself now and
I've justified my place. That stupid 'knees in the air' thing I did was an
expression of 'I'm really here'.
"The disputed goal, from a technical point of view, was a good goal. To get
the power on it, I had to lean back and I'm almost sitting on my bum to get
the power. The ball bounced behind the goalkeeper Tilkowski, so I had the
worst view in the stadium.
"The Swiss referee then consulted the Russian linesman and they couldn't
speak a common language. God knows what they were talking about!
"We were then hanging on 3-2 with seconds to go and the last cross of the
afternoon was put in by Willi Schulz on the right wing and the ball was
going to bounce in a very dangerous position. Who was there who has great
technique and reading of the game ability? Bobby Moore, of course.
"What does he do? He chests the ball down in the middle of the penalty area
in a World Cup final. His centre-half partner Jackie Charlton of Leeds would
have dealt with this in a slightly different way and he was heard to shout
across to Mooro: 'Robert, will you please kick the ball out of the ground!'.
"What Bobby was also good at was hitting the front player. Overath was going
to catch me because he didn't have the ball and I did, but then there was a
call from the other side of the pitch [from Alan Ball] of 'Hursty, give me
the ball' and that call disturbed the German defence.
"It could have gone beyond the bar and into the stand, into the crowd, and
by the time the ball boy had got the ball back to Tilkowski and he had hit
it upfield, the game would have been over.
"My feeling was one of relief and then 'Did the last goal count?' so I went
back out on the pitch in my suit and looked at the scoreboard and it said
'4-2' and I realised that it had counted."
The man of the moment
Plaistow-born Martin Peters MBE had only made his England debut in May 1966
and now the Hammers midfielder was a national hero…
"It's so difficult to explain how I felt, but I can tell you how the goal
came about. There were 12 minutes to go and Alan Ball had won a corner on
the right.
"The little guy went out to take the corner and he hit it to the far post. I
had a position on the near post where Alf Ramsey got me to stay.
"It actually went right over the far post and out of the box and Geoff Hurst
got onto the ball and maybe he should have passed but he shot. It was a
rubbish shot to be honest with you and it hit the full-back called Hoettges
on the leg and circled across the edge of the box.
"I had pulled out from my position on the near post to the edge of the box
and, as it came, I thought 'Oh God, it's coming to me, keep your knee over
the ball, like Ron Greenwood had told you at West Ham, and make sure it
doesn't go over the bar.
"As I hit it, the goalkeeper went one way and the full-back Schnellinger
went the other and it went down the middle and hit the back of the net.
"I was up and running and everyone was jumping all over me. Even now when I
talk about it, it gives me a thrill to think about scoring in the World Cup
final."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad beaten by strong Dutch outfit
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad faced a strong VVV-Venlo side on Saturday and were
beaten 6-1.
The Hammers equalised early in the second half through Toni Martinez after
they had fallen behind inside ten minutes, but the remaining action in the
second period was dominated by the hosts.
Substitutions were made and as the game lost its flow, Venlo capitalised on
some lapses in concentration to comfortably see out the game.
In a tight first half, it was the hosts who drew blood first, though the
Hammers had come close through Marcus Browne.
A long through ball from the back was collected in the right channel, and a
pinpoint cross allowed Torino Hunte to tap in.
And Nathan Trott was to thank midway through the first period as he flung
down to his right to superbly deny what looked a certain goal from a
six-yard header.
In the second half, Browne was again involved in the Irons' good play as he
drew a foul 20 yards from goal. Toni Martinez – who had just joined the
squad for the clash – took responsibility and fired low into the bottom left
corner to level the scores.
But soon, the Eerste Divisie team took control and put themselves beyond
reach of Terry Westley's young side – which contained a number of 15 and
16-year-olds.
Nathan Trott made good saves in the build up to Venlo's second and third
goals but could not deny the rebounds which were put away.
Vito van Crooij pounced to grab Venlo's second, while Tim Receveur was there
to find the back of the net soon after.
With half an hour remaining, Venlo scored with the model counter attacking
goal. Snatching the ball back from West Ham – who were themselves looking to
get back in the game – the Dutch side attacked fast and van Crooij was there
to finish an excellent move.
Receveur slid in at the back post to fire past Trott for the fifth, before
Hunte got himself on the scoresheet again, nodding over the line after Venlo
had previously struck the crossbar.
The two simple finishes completed the scoring at the Seacon Stadion – De
Koel to hand Venlo the victory against their partner club.
VVV-Venlo Squad: Maarten de Fockert, Moreno Rutten, Jerold Promes, Roel
Janssen, Danny Post, Vito van Crooij, Clint Leemans, Ralf Seuntjens,
Johnatan Opoku, Nils Roseler, Torino Hunte, Delano van Crooij, Leandro
Resida, Tim Receveur, Tristan Dekker, Roy Oomen, Lugman Bezzat, Roy Gielen
Dev Squad: Nathan Trott (Sam Howes 65), Sam Westley (Matt Carter 52), Josh
Pask, Tunji Akinola, Mason Barrett (Kristjian Belic 70), Diego Poyet (Janaai
Gordon 65), Moses Makasi (Noha Sylvestre 52), Dan Kemp (Jahmal Hector-Ingram
46), Marcus Browne (Conor Coventry 80), Grady Diangana (Joe Powell 61), Toni
Martinez (Alfie Lewis 71)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make enquiry for Swansea's Andre Ayew - Sky sources
Hammers also closing in on Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 29/07/16 5:27pm
West Ham have enquired into the availability of Swansea forward Andre Ayew,
according to Sky sources. The Hammers are yet to lodge an official bid for
the 26-year-old, who is understood to be valued by Swansea at £20m. Ayew
attracted interest from West Ham last summer, but joined the Swans on a free
transfer and went on to score 12 goals during his debut season in the
Premier League. The Ghana international, who is contracted to Swansea until
2019, is currently one of only two senior forwards at the club following the
departure of Bafetimbi Gomis to Marseille on a season-long loan. Swansea
hope to sign two strikers before the close of the summer transfer window and
it is understood they will not entertain the possibility of selling Ayew
until they have acquired attacking reinforcements.
Slaven Bilic is worried his West Ham squad is not big enough for the rigours
of the upcoming season… Meanwhile, Sky sources also understand West Ham are
closing in on the loan signing of Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri from
Boca Juniors. A deal for the 22-year-old is nearing completion, but an
announcement is not imminent. Calleri spent last season on loan at Brazilian
club Sao Paolo and scored 16 goals in 31 appearances.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hull turn down West Ham's £7m transfer bid for Andrew Robertson
By Keith Downie, Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 29/07/16 5:52pm
SSN
West Ham have had a £7m bid turned down by Hull City for Scotland left-back
Andrew Robertson, according to Sky sources.
The Hammers have been forced into the left-back market after Aaron Cresswell
was injured for up to four months with knee ligament damage on Monday.
Creswell missed just one Premier League game over the past two seasons but
was left writhing in agony in the closing stages of Saturday's pre-season
win over German side Karlsruher in Austria.
Robertson, 22, was instrumental in Hull's promotion campaign to the Premier
League last term, making 52 appearances in all competitions and scoring four
goals.
He signed for Hull from Dundee United for £2.8m in 2014 and has gone on to
play 77 times for the Tigers. Glasgow-born Robertson also has 10 caps for
Scotland.
West Ham have been plagued with injury problems already in pre-season, with
Manuel Lanzini suffering a knee injury with Argentina ahead of the Olympic
Games in Rio.
Summer signing Gokhan Tore also needs a scan on his own knee problem after
being hurt in training on Monday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham don't need to sell Dimitri Payet claims club legend Tony Cottee
22:30, 30 JUL 2016
BY STEVE STAMMERS
Under the regime of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady, West Ham
have been transformed and, for Cottee, that means the end of the "selling
club" reputation
The Mirror
Tony Cottee was a high-profile member of the famed production line of
home-grown talent at West Ham . But he left no doubt about the direction
his career would have taken, had the club enjoyed in 1988 the status it does
now. "Quite simply, I would never have left," he said. "Simple as that."
Under the regime of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady, West Ham
have been transformed and, for Cottee, that means the end of the "selling
club" reputation. "That is what West Ham have been in the past," said
Cottee, a prolific goalscorer in two spells at West Ham. "But those days are
gone. Long gone." "The days when the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Joe Cole,
Frank Lampard and Glenn Johnson and Jermain Defoe HAD to be sold are long
gone."
Cottee is hugely optimistic about the future now the club have relocated to
the Olympic Stadium, with its 55,000 capacity. "It is fantastic," said
Cottee. "It is real progress and it is a huge step forward for the club.
"With all the money that is in football now, West Ham can pay top wages and
the players can play in a marvellous arena. "Why would the likes of Dimitri
Payet want to leave? "The squad is strong and were close to qualifying for
the Champions League last season. There is no reason to leave an environment
like this. West Ham don't have to sell any more – and that is why I can see
someone like Mark Noble staying here for the rest of his career."
That was once an ambition of Cottee's. He saw great prospects ahead, back in
1986 when the club finished third in the old First Division. "That was a
great side," recalled Cottee. "I thought it was the ideal chance to push on
and win the title in the future, but it never happened." "I had the chance
to join either Everton or Arsenal – both teams who push for the title on an
annual basis. "I had also just got into the England set-up and you heard the
Manchester United, Liverpool and Everton players talking about
championships. "I wanted to taste that and, to be fair, John Lyall, the
manager at the time, understood. "But if John had been able to work with the
finances now and send his team out to that stadium, West Ham would have had
more success – and I would never have left."
Cottee is a season-ticket holder at the newly-renamed London Stadium. "It is
a club now ready to compete with the best, not only in London – but also the
rest of the country."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
est Ham closing on £5million signing of Sweden left-back Ludwig Augustinsson
22:30, 30 JUL 2016
BY FOOTBALL SPY
Aaron Cresswell has been sidelined for around four months and West Ham have
stepped up their efforts to get the deal for Augustinsson done
The Mirror
West Ham are closing in on £5million Sweden left-back Ludwig Augustinsson.
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic was ready to move for the FC Copenhagen defender
before Aaron Cresswell 's injury. The plan was to take him to the London
Stadium as back-up to one of the most consistent left-backs in the top
flight. But Cresswell has been sidelined for around four months after
suffering knee ligament damage and West Ham have stepped up their efforts to
get the deal for Augustinsson done. The 22-year-old started his career at
IFK Gothenburg, featuring 29 times before his switch to FC Copenhagen 18
months ago.
Augustinsson has been a regular for the Danish giants, with his exploits
catching the eye of the Hammers.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, July 29
Daily WHUFC News - 30th July 2016
Jurcevic - We were not satisfied
WHUFC.com
Nikola Jurcevic admitted NK Domzale deserved to earn a UEFA Europa League
third qualifying round first leg advantage over West Ham United in Slovenia.
The home side secured a 2-1 victory over the Hammers thanks to Matic Crnic's
double, with Mark Noble's penalty snatching a valuable away goal in between
the winger's own spot-kick and individual run and accurate finish. Assistant
manager Jurcevic – in charge for the night while Slaven Bilic served
completed a two-match UEFA touchline ban – conceded that the PrvaLiga's
third-best side had been the better team at Stadion Stozice and said his own
side would need to improve to progress. The second leg will take place next
Thursday evening at the London Stadium, where a 54,000 crowd will hope to
see the English team turn things around in their first fixture at their new
home. "First I want to say well done to Domzale because they won today and
they were really good," said former Croatia international Jurcevic. "Our
performance was not so good, and maybe I can say it was average in the first
half and it was 1-1. We were not satisfied with this result and in the
second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team and won 2-1. "OK,
we were maybe not in our top form because it was our first official game and
we were without some very important players and only had young players on
the bench, but this is not an excuse, I must say. "Domzale was better and I
hope and I am sure we will be better next week. It will be very difficult
but I'm optimistic and I hope it will be a different game in the Olympic
Stadium. It's a special game because it's the first game at the Olympic
Stadium with about 54,000 spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this
game in our stadium because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it
will be very tough because Domzale showed they are a good team. We must
improve next week, with more players back in the squad, and I hope we can
win the first game at the Olympic Stadium."
Jurcevic stated that West Ham will have to delve into the transfer market to
add reinforcements after losing Turkey winger Gokhan Tore to a knee injury.
Summer loan signing Tore joins Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini in the
treatment room, while the assistant boss also admitted Euro 2016 stars
Angelo Ogbonna, James Collins and Dimitri Payet are unlikely to feature in
the return game with Domzale. Despite those setbacks, the former Croatia and
Besiktas No2 insisted that the Hammers are desperate to reach the Europa
League group stages after falling short a year ago. "We have a new situation
as it's the first year in a new Stadium and we have big ambitions for
Europe," he said. "The Premier League is the most important, but we have
absolutely big ambitions, we want to win and we will do all we can in the
Olympic Stadium to go to the Play-off round and go to the group stage. "It's
difficult to say which players will play because Gokhan Tore was injured in
training on Monday and he must have a scan. Maybe we will possibly do
something in the transfer market because we need some players in some
positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are injured and cannot
play for a long time. "Next week, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be
in training so we maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have
the same squad. "Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It
was a very easy training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his
knee. He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"With Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from
America, where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. We
don't know, but we think he will not be fit for the next game against
Domzale."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Byram – We'll put it right
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
West Ham United suffered 2-1 defeat to Slovenian side NK Domzale on Thursday
Sam Byram played the 90 minutes in UEFA Europa League third qualifying round
first leg
Hammers welcome Domzale for London Stadium opener in return leg on 4 August
Sam Byram says the Hammers will right the wrongs of Thursday's 2-1 defeat to
NK Domzale when they welcome the Slovenian side to London Stadium for the
second leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie next week.
The Hammers suffered a disappointing loss on a frustrating night in
Ljubljana, as a double strike from Matic Crnic ensured the home side would
be taking a slender advantage into the return game. But with another week's
preparation under their belts, Byram is sure West Ham will put up a better
showing in the first game at their new home to turn the tie around. "We've
got the second leg to focus on now," he said. "We're disappointed to lose
here as we thought we would be coming away with a result. "There are things
to work on and we can't dwell on it now. We just have to look to the next
one. They're probably a bit fitter than us [at this stage in their season],
but in all fairness we should be beating teams like that. "We have better
quality and we play in one of the top divisions in the world so we're
disappointed with the result."
On a personal level, Byram was happy to be back in Slaven Bilic's starting
XI for the first time since the home Premier League win over Sunderland on
27 February, and is keen to play his part as the Hammers look to overturn
Domzale's lead. He explained: "It was my first experience of the Europa
League and I really enjoyed that. It is just a shame about the result. "We
flew back on Thursday night and have a day to recover, but then we'll
regroup and work towards the next one. Hopefully we'll do better at home.
"It's going to be our first game at the new Stadium and it is exciting times
for the Club. "We won't let ourselves get too down. There are things to work
on, but we will go into the next one positively and we're looking forward to
the second leg."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A REFEREE ANALYSIS – METE KALKAVAN
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:38PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
It's great to be back writing for The West Ham Way, after some very
promising signs from the English FA representatives at the European
Championships, I hope to see improved decision making by referees this
season in the Premier League. I've mentioned in The West Ham Way's June
fanzine that there are some big changes to the Laws of the Game which will
definitely be interesting for next season. With the club going in the right
direction, a 7th place finish and an emotional farewell to the Boleyn
Ground. We enter a very exciting period in the club's history and
potentially bring Europa League group stage football to the Olympic Stadium
this season. Our European adventure starts against NK Domžale in Slovenia
and this is the first meeting between the Slovenian and English club. Mete
Kalkavan from Istanbul, Turkey is the referee in the middle for this 3rd
Round Europa League 1st leg tie.
What a very interesting first half! Looking at the challenges by NK Domžale,
I thought I was watching a different sport with some of them being very
questionable and unnecessary with some even going unpunished. Andy Carroll
was the most fouled player in the first half and the first caution of the
game went to the NK Domžale centre-back for pulling Carroll down outside the
box. I must mention that the International Football Association Board (IFAB)
want to crack down on "intolerable behaviour" by the players. Running to
contest decisions, arguing face-to-face with officials, and "visibly
disrespectful" actions will result in yellow cards and if this was a Premier
League game, Carroll will needs to control his reaction after protesting
with the assistant referee. The biggest talking point of the half was the
harsh penalty awarded to NK Domžale Antonio lost the ball deep inside the
NK Domžale half and after a very good counter attack, the NK Domžale striker
dummied and his shot grazed between Håvard Nordtveit's arm and rib cage. The
Turkish referee pointed to the spot but I feel this is a very harsh
decision. Having said that, I think the motion of Nordtveit's arm toward the
ball made up referee's mind and deemed it as intentional handball.
Regardless, in my opinion there was no obvious intent to stop/interfere with
an attack, the one thing the referee did get correct was to only punish
Nordtveit was a caution, and not to send off the Norwegian. The law for
Denying an Obvious Goalscoring Opportunity has changed and does not always
warrant in a red card. Players committing accidental fouls that deny
goal-scoring opportunities in the penalty area will not be automatically
sent off, with a yellow card sufficient punishment. The Turkish referee also
awarded West Ham a penalty in the first half and this decision I do agree
with. Andy Carroll sent the ball back in the box in the direction of Winston
Reid after NK Domžale half cleared the danger. Reid won the ball in the air
before the NK Domžale goalkeeper came steaming out and clattering the Kiwi
international. The referee was correct to award the penalty on this occasion
after a reckless challenge by the young goalkeeper.
The second half seemed more calm than the first half with a couple of NK
Domžale players getting over enthusiastic in some of their attempts to win
the ball back. NK Domžale's Horvat was the only player cautioned in the
second half, the NK Domžale player went into the Turkish referee's note book
after a series of fouls topped off by pulling Pedro Obiang after a promising
counter attack. Apart from that, no big talking points to highlight but
overall it wasn't a great performance by the referee.
Overall, a nervy refereeing performance by Mete Kalkavan, it didnt look like
he was confident and convinced with his own decision making, especially
after awarding that very questionable penalty to NK Domžale in the first
half. It's now all to play for next Thursday in our first competitive game
at the Olympic Stadium. We go with an away goal and Adrian single handily
saved us from even more embarrassment. With a lot of the first time
available and a strong squad, we did miss that cutting edge especially with
Antonio looking a little loss. We definitely need to turn this around and
hope Slav and the team pull together and get a result. Throughout the
season, I will be giving my opinion on decision making by referees and
analysis for The West Ham Way for as many West Ham games I can, you can
follow me on Twitter @SamRoyden and tweet me using the hashtag #TWHWRef
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK DOMZALE 2-1 WEST HAM UNITED – MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:14PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
West Ham's European Away woes continued this evening as they were beaten 2-1
in Ljubljana by NK Domzale, which means the club have now lost their last
three European ties away from home.
Their fate could've been even worse if it wasn't for a spectacular double
save near the end of the game by Adrian to keep the scoreline at 2-1.
Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead from the spot after the referee awarded a
debatable penalty when the ball struck Havard Nordtveit's arm and then he
grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal when Michail Antonio was caught
well out of position in the second half.
Mark Noble converted the Hammer's spot kick awarded for a foul by the
goalkeeper on Winston Reid.
The Hammers went into the game with a strong line-up including Adrian in
goal.
The back four consisted of Michail Antonio and Sam Byram at fullback,
Winston Reid and Norwegian International Havard Nordtveit at centreback.
Captain Mark Noble anchored the midfield with Cheikh Kouyate and Pedro
Obiang. Sofiane Feghouli started on the right wing with Enner Valencia on
the left and Andy Carroll up front.
Gokhan Tore missed the game after suffering a knock in training last night
and the Hammers were also without their three Euro 2016 players, Payet,
Collins and Ogbonna plus the injured Cresswell and Lanzini.
Slaven Bilic had to watch the game from the stands as he was serving a
suspension for his sending off against FC Astra last year when the Hammers
were eliminated from the Europa League.
Although the Hammers are still in a strong position to qualify, many of the
faithful will be concerned by this performance when a team consisting of all
first team squad players struggled to break down Domzale and looked so weak
at the back on the counter attack. They will also be frustrated with the
Manager's continual insistence to play Michail Antonio at right back.
Only time will tell if the Manager will change his stance on Antonio but
rest assured if the past is anything to go by West Ham never produce two
poor performances in a row so they should be well prepared for the second
leg to open their new Stadium next Thursday.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham winger Gokhan Tore to have knee injury scanned
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 29/07/16 8:37am
SSN
West Ham winger Gokhan Tore requires a scan on his knee injury, after being
hurt in training on Monday. The Turkish winger, spending the season on loan
from Besiktas, missed Thursday's 2-1 Europa League qualifying defeat to
Slovenian side Domzale in Ljubljana. He will be assessed on Friday but with
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini also out, assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic concedes the club's hand might be forced. "Gokhan Tore was injured
in training on Monday and he must have a scan," Jurcevic told West Ham's
official. "He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"Maybe we will possibly do something in the transfer market because we need
players in some positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are
injured and cannot play for a long time. "Next week (for the second leg
against Domzale), Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be in training so we
maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have the same squad.
"Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It was a very easy
training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his knee. "With
Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from America,
where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. "We don't know,
but we think he will not be fit for the next game against Domzale."
West Ham must win their first game at the Olympic Stadium if they are to
overturn the deficit againts Domzale and progress in the Europa League, and
Jurcevic expects significant improvement from the team. "Domzale were really
good," he added. "Our performance was not so good and maybe I can say it was
average in the first half and it was 1-1. "We were not satisfied with this
result and in the second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team
and won 2-1. "Okay, we were maybe not in our top form because it was our
first game and we were without some very important players and only had
young players on the bench but this is not an excuse. "I am sure we will be
better next week. It will be very difficult but I'm optimistic and I hope it
will be a different game in the Olympic Stadium. "It's a special game
because it's the first game at the Olympic Stadium with about 54,000
spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this game in our stadium
because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it will be very tough
because Domzale showed they are a good team."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham branded "average" after Europa League defeat to Slovenian side NK
Domzale
23:32, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 23:33, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored either side of a Mark Noble penalty to leave the Hammers
with it all to do in thrit third qualifying round tie
The Mirror
West Ham were branded "average" and "bad" by assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic after suffering a shock Europa League defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale. Domzale, the third best team in Slovenia, secured a famous 2-1
win to take into next week's third qualifying round second leg which will be
the Hammers' first game at the Olympic Stadium. Matic Crnic, the game's best
player, fired Domzale ahead from the spot after Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball. Domzale keeper Axel Maraval flattened Winston Reid
as he came out to punch clear and Mark Noble grabbed the ball to coolly
level the game. The hosts regained the lead shortly after the re-start with
a slick passing move ending with tricky winger Crnic cutting in from the
left and bending his second of the night and the winner into Adrian's far
corner. West Ham No 2 Jurcevic was dissatisfied with the Hammers' display.
"Our performance was not so good the first half," Jurcevic remarked. "It was
average it was 1-1 at half time. We were satisfied with this score but in
the second half we played bad.
"Domzale were the better team. We are not now maybe in our top form because
it is our first official game but this is not an excuse. Domzale was better
and I hope we will we better in one week in the second game. "It is a
special game first game at the stadium about 60,000 spectators and we must
be better. We must win this game in our stadium because we have big
ambitions in Europe. "But it will be tough because Domzale showed they are a
very good team. We hope we can be better." West Ham are sweating on the
fitness of summer loan signing Gokhan Tore after he suffered a knee injury
in training on the eve of the match. The Turkish winger due to have will
have a scan on the injury today.
West Ham United via GettyAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and
Gaber DobrovoljcAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and Gaber
Dobrovoljc
West Ham: Adrian 6; Antonio 4 (Quina 81, 5), Nordtveit 6, Reid 6, Byram 5;
Obiang 7, Kouyate 6; Feghouli 7, Noble 6, Valencia 6; Carroll 5.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to confirm loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri
Jonathan Calleri to join from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
22-year-old striker scored 16 goals for Brazilian club Sao Paulo last season
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic says his squad is still too small to compete
Summer target Carlos Bacca is yet to decide on a move to West Ham
By RORY O'CALLAGHAN FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:41, 29 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 29 July 2016
West Ham are set to confirm the loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan
Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado as Slaven Bilic looks to build a squad
capable of fighting on four fronts this season. The 22-year-old, who made
his name at Boca Juniors, spent the majority of the last campaign on loan at
Brazilian club Sao Paulo - scoring 16 goals in 31 appearances. Calleri, who
was reportedly a January transfer target of Chelsea last season, is regarded
as one of the most talented young strikers in South America.
JONATHAN CALLERI'S CAREER STATS
Born: September 23, 1993 (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Clubs: All Boys, Boca Juniors, Deportivo Maldonado, Sao Paulo
Appearances: 120
Goals: 45
Honours: Primera Division 2015 (Boca Juniors), Copa Argentina 2015 (Boca
Juniors)
The Argentine is set to join up with compatriot Manuel Lanzini, who could
miss the start of the season after injuring his knee on international duty
with Argentina at the Olympic Games in Rio. Calleri's arrival at West Ham
eases some of the pressure on Bilic, who admitted this week that he believes
his squad is too small to compete in the Premier League.
'We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to
join us and they are extremely quality players,' said Bilic. 'Hopefully we
are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation,
which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a
squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League.'
West Ham have been knocked back in their attempts to bolster their squad
this summer, with targets Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette both
turning down a move to the Olympic Stadium. Meanwhile, AC Milan striker
Carlos Bacca is yet to make a decision over a possible transfer to East
London after the two clubs agreed a £26million deal for the Colombian.
West Ham have already signed five new players this summer, including former
Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli, but Bilic is keen to add to his squad
before the start of the new campaign. The Hammers could be competing in four
separate competitions this season, if they can overturn a 2-1 first-leg
deficit against Slovenian club NK Domzale in the Europa League's third
qualifying round.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Former West Ham player Jack Collison is still living
his footballing dream.
By Sokkaa -29th July 2016
http://sokkaa.com/
Jack dislocated his right kneecap against Wigan Athletic in March 2009,
which led to a string of knee injuries and changed the course of his career,
which was heading into a bright direction.
Collison began his career at the age of sixteen. He scored 14 goals in 121
games for the Hammers between 2007-2014. Post retirement at a meagre age of
27, one that is considered the prime age for a footballer to peak, Jack is
still chasing his dream off the pitch. I caught up with the Ex-Welsh
international footballer to discuss life post football.
1. Describe life after football.
Interesting, would probably be the best word to describe it. At the
beginning I really struggled, it was hard to even watch a game on TV let
alone go and watch one live. But by missing a full season prior to
announcing my retirement after a brief comeback with Peterborough United, I
decided to get motivated and start planning for the future. I threw myself
into various ventures and made sure I was busy. Currently I am absolutely
loving coaching and through this I have fell back in love with the beautiful
game.
2. Very often, people and youngsters these days believe that footballers
have an easy life. How does it feel when you look back at the dreaded
injury, which changed your career plan?
If I'm honest I feel very blessed that I got a small taste of the big time.
I absolutely loved every moment of being a footballer and there is no better
feeling than walking out in front of thousands of people on a Saturday to
play the game you love. I was unfortunate in the way I had so many injuries
throughout my career, and deep down there will always be the sickening
feeling of 'what if' .people don't often get to see the endless hours in the
gym, rehabbing and that side of the game for injured players, but now I can
no longer play I appreciate the moments out on the pitch even more.
3. Is it true that Chelsea was your club as a kid? Who was your
favourite player?
Yea I used to go to Chelsea with my dad when I could. I used to love
watching Zola and it was unbelievable to play under one of my heroes at West
Ham. Even then he was the best player on the pitch, he was that good.
4. We've been hearing a lot about the Jack Collison Soccer School opened
along with your old friend. Tell us more about the school?
During a period when I was injured I decided to start a new project.
Alongside my good friend Russell short we felt there was an opportunity to
bring high class coaching to grass roots level. We have a heavy emphasis on
having fun and creating a positive environment for the kids to learn. We're
also very lucky that with our contacts we have managed to provide our JCss
kids with memorable moments, such as meeting premier league footballers and
Olympic gold medalists. I am very passionate about the soccer school and
it's been great to watch it grow.
5. In this day and age, many sportsmen opt to start some kind of
training camp or school post retirement. How would you describe yours
differently?
I believe we create a special environment with our energetic coaches. They
really inspire the kids and help them step out of their comfort zone and
enjoy playing football. We are also very lucky that we can get some
fantastic guests down and inspire the kids in that way. We try to keep it
fresh, innovative and moving with the times. I also hope our passion shines
throughout our coaching and we aim to send every kid home with a smile.
6. Let's return to West Ham days for a bit. What was your favourite
moment in a Hammers shirt?
I had a few wonderful moments. I throughly enjoyed my first goal and my
debut but the ultimate highlight would have to be getting promoted at
Wembley with West Ham. The season as a whole was an incredible journey and
winning in front of all those fans was a wonderful experience.
7. Many youngsters find it tough to deal with injuries or being side
lined these days. What advice would you give young players linking this to
your injury and the way you handled the massive news?
I would say always have a back up plan. Try and be proactive and plan for
life after football. Other than that I would say enjoy every moment whilst
your playing. You never know when it will be over so cherish every moment.
8. Is it important to be mentally tough in football? Aggression or
patience?
Yes you have to be very mentally tough and the psychology side is having a
larger impact on football. It's a lot more common nowadays for teams to use
psychologists at all levels. I have found that the kids who seem to go on
and do well have a burning desire to succeed. They throw themselves into
every situation, always looking to improve. It's almost as if you can see
the fire within certain people and that's imperative to make it. Once you
get there patience is essential as there will be many frustrating moments
alongside the great times, it's how you deal with the tough times that often
define you as a player and a person.
9. Wales had a dream tournament at the Euros. What should they do to
maintain and carry on this form until the FIFA WC in 2018?
They need to keep building on the positives. It's great news that Chris
Coleman has signed a new contract and hopefully him and his team can
continue to build something special. Now the country has had a taste of the
big time they will be keen to get the team to the World Cup. They certainly
have the players, and foundations to do that.
10. Do you see yourself as a club manager anytime soon?
I have a lot to learn in terms of management but I am really enjoying my
time with the u18s at Peterborough. However I am very motivated, always keen
to learn and strive to be the best I can possibly be. If that is enough to
get me into management then great, I certainly would love the chance.
11. I see that you're studying for a degree in sports writing and
broadcasting, what's new on that front?
Yes it is another passion of mine. I have always been a keen writer but
never published any of my work up until recently. Once again during a period
of being injured I saw the course on the PfA website and decided to try it
out. It has been very testing at times but I am half way through and very
keen to finish it off. I am also currently working on a book so watch this
space.
12. Where do you see the JC Soccer School heading in the next five years?
My partner Russell and I have big plans. We are keen to crack America and
have our second camp in Philadelphia coming up in a few weeks that we are
really excited about. We want to take it global and although we have only
been running for 18 months we have made good progress.
13. There was a JC Soccer School camp in USA recently. How were the
atmosphere and the experience??
It was an incredible experience in Boston. I have already worked with some
American kids previously and it was great to get the chance to again. They
are so competitive, and keen to learn. It's very refreshing and I'm excited
to try and create something special state side and improve the standard of
'soccer' wherever we go.
14. Shefford is a place closest to your heart. Recite some childhood
football memories?
I grew up in Shefford and had a wonderful childhood there. I still have
great relationships with the local schools and teams so it made sense to
take the soccer school to Bedfordshire. We have a great product and the
local kids seem to like what we have to offer. It's also great to see many
local people going out of their way to help us out in whatever way they can,
especially Robert Bloomfield and Samuel Whitbread schools, they have been
incredible.
15. Who will win the Premier League 2017/2018 and why?
Manchester United – simply because of Mourinho. I think he is incredible.
16. If you had to give one piece of advice to aspiring players, what would
it be?
Just to enjoy every moment. Whether it's training or a game. Love what you
do and cherish the good moments, those special wins and wonderful goals.
17. Five years down the line, what do we see Jack Collison doing?
Who knows. Maybe coaching, maybe in America. I'm really enjoying my role at
the moment and keen to improve so we will see where it takes me.
Thank you Jack for sharing your experiences with Sokkaa and we wish you the
very best for all your future endeavours.
Original interview by Tina MATEEN for Sokkaa
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham captain Mark Noble bemoans Domzale penalty but admits Hammers
deserved to lose
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
West Ham midfielder Mark Noble was not convinced by the penalty that gave NK
Domzale an early lead at Stozice Stadium. However Noble admitted the
Slovenian minnows deserved the victory that has left West Ham's Europa
League future in doubt. The Hammers enter the second leg of their Europa
League third-round qualifier with a 2-1 deficit after Matic Crnic pounced in
each half, the opener delivered from the spot after debutant Havard
Nordtveit was adjudged to have handled the ball. Captain Noble equalised
with a penalty, but West Ham were comfortably second best and their skipper
has demanded an improvement in their first outing at the Olympic Stadium
next Thursday. "I don't think it was a penalty in the first half, but you
have to get on with it and we ended up losing the game," Noble told BT
Sport. "Playing at the Olympic Stadium is something to look forward to, but
obviously this result isn't ideal. "It's our first game there and we've got
to be positive - I'm sure the fans will be behind us - and win the game.
"You're going to miss a player like Dimitri Payet of course, but that's no
excuse. We had a good enough team to come here and win but we didn't do
that. "These games are tough, but we didn't play well. They played well and
deserved it."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hungry Feghouli will provide West Ham width
Adrian Clarke 29/07/2016
The Premier League
This summer's transfer window still has over a month to run but already
we've seen a host of exciting newcomers sign for Premier League clubs. As
part of our build up to the 2016/17 campaign, tactics expert Adrian Clarke
runs the rule over what some of the new faces will offer in the coming
months. After looking at Middlesbrough's Marten de Roon, Clarke's attentions
turn to a winger hoping to make up for lost time at West Ham United. The
signing of Sofiane Feghouli is sure to give West Ham supporters yet further
cause for optimism in the club's first season at the London Stadium. The
right-sided midfielder, 26, should be approaching his peak years following
his move from Valencia. Fast, powerful and extremely positive on the ball,
Feghouli will relish the opportunity of taking on Premier League full-backs
on English soil. It's expected that the Algerian will compete with Michail
Antonio for a starting berth, but with the ex-Nottingham Forest man often
utilized at right-back, there's a possibility the two could combine to form
an athletic partnership down that side of the pitch. In many respects last
season's Hammers squad was overloaded with creators favouring to open up
defences from central positions, so by adding another touchline-hugging
winger to their ranks it creates far better balance within the group. Phil
Neville, his former coach at Valencia, once described the winger as a
big-game player, and with 10 UEFA Champions League goals to his name, there
is an element of pedigree to his record. Although far from prolific, the
Algeria international has scored between five and seven goals in each of the
last five campaigns. Last season was a virtual write-off however. After
falling out with Valencia's owner, the winger saw his game-time limited and
he grew into a figure of great frustration. With fire in his belly, a fresh
challenge, and the chance to make up for lost time in east London, Feghouli
could be just the right man for Slaven Bilic. Feghouli scored in West Ham's
3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Karlsruher SC. Watch full-match
highlights.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Nikola Jurcevic admitted NK Domzale deserved to earn a UEFA Europa League
third qualifying round first leg advantage over West Ham United in Slovenia.
The home side secured a 2-1 victory over the Hammers thanks to Matic Crnic's
double, with Mark Noble's penalty snatching a valuable away goal in between
the winger's own spot-kick and individual run and accurate finish. Assistant
manager Jurcevic – in charge for the night while Slaven Bilic served
completed a two-match UEFA touchline ban – conceded that the PrvaLiga's
third-best side had been the better team at Stadion Stozice and said his own
side would need to improve to progress. The second leg will take place next
Thursday evening at the London Stadium, where a 54,000 crowd will hope to
see the English team turn things around in their first fixture at their new
home. "First I want to say well done to Domzale because they won today and
they were really good," said former Croatia international Jurcevic. "Our
performance was not so good, and maybe I can say it was average in the first
half and it was 1-1. We were not satisfied with this result and in the
second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team and won 2-1. "OK,
we were maybe not in our top form because it was our first official game and
we were without some very important players and only had young players on
the bench, but this is not an excuse, I must say. "Domzale was better and I
hope and I am sure we will be better next week. It will be very difficult
but I'm optimistic and I hope it will be a different game in the Olympic
Stadium. It's a special game because it's the first game at the Olympic
Stadium with about 54,000 spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this
game in our stadium because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it
will be very tough because Domzale showed they are a good team. We must
improve next week, with more players back in the squad, and I hope we can
win the first game at the Olympic Stadium."
Jurcevic stated that West Ham will have to delve into the transfer market to
add reinforcements after losing Turkey winger Gokhan Tore to a knee injury.
Summer loan signing Tore joins Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini in the
treatment room, while the assistant boss also admitted Euro 2016 stars
Angelo Ogbonna, James Collins and Dimitri Payet are unlikely to feature in
the return game with Domzale. Despite those setbacks, the former Croatia and
Besiktas No2 insisted that the Hammers are desperate to reach the Europa
League group stages after falling short a year ago. "We have a new situation
as it's the first year in a new Stadium and we have big ambitions for
Europe," he said. "The Premier League is the most important, but we have
absolutely big ambitions, we want to win and we will do all we can in the
Olympic Stadium to go to the Play-off round and go to the group stage. "It's
difficult to say which players will play because Gokhan Tore was injured in
training on Monday and he must have a scan. Maybe we will possibly do
something in the transfer market because we need some players in some
positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are injured and cannot
play for a long time. "Next week, Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be
in training so we maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have
the same squad. "Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It
was a very easy training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his
knee. He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"With Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from
America, where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. We
don't know, but we think he will not be fit for the next game against
Domzale."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Byram – We'll put it right
WHUFC.com
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
Sam Byram is confident the Hammers will overturn their first-leg deficit
West Ham United suffered 2-1 defeat to Slovenian side NK Domzale on Thursday
Sam Byram played the 90 minutes in UEFA Europa League third qualifying round
first leg
Hammers welcome Domzale for London Stadium opener in return leg on 4 August
Sam Byram says the Hammers will right the wrongs of Thursday's 2-1 defeat to
NK Domzale when they welcome the Slovenian side to London Stadium for the
second leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie next week.
The Hammers suffered a disappointing loss on a frustrating night in
Ljubljana, as a double strike from Matic Crnic ensured the home side would
be taking a slender advantage into the return game. But with another week's
preparation under their belts, Byram is sure West Ham will put up a better
showing in the first game at their new home to turn the tie around. "We've
got the second leg to focus on now," he said. "We're disappointed to lose
here as we thought we would be coming away with a result. "There are things
to work on and we can't dwell on it now. We just have to look to the next
one. They're probably a bit fitter than us [at this stage in their season],
but in all fairness we should be beating teams like that. "We have better
quality and we play in one of the top divisions in the world so we're
disappointed with the result."
On a personal level, Byram was happy to be back in Slaven Bilic's starting
XI for the first time since the home Premier League win over Sunderland on
27 February, and is keen to play his part as the Hammers look to overturn
Domzale's lead. He explained: "It was my first experience of the Europa
League and I really enjoyed that. It is just a shame about the result. "We
flew back on Thursday night and have a day to recover, but then we'll
regroup and work towards the next one. Hopefully we'll do better at home.
"It's going to be our first game at the new Stadium and it is exciting times
for the Club. "We won't let ourselves get too down. There are things to work
on, but we will go into the next one positively and we're looking forward to
the second leg."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A REFEREE ANALYSIS – METE KALKAVAN
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:38PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
It's great to be back writing for The West Ham Way, after some very
promising signs from the English FA representatives at the European
Championships, I hope to see improved decision making by referees this
season in the Premier League. I've mentioned in The West Ham Way's June
fanzine that there are some big changes to the Laws of the Game which will
definitely be interesting for next season. With the club going in the right
direction, a 7th place finish and an emotional farewell to the Boleyn
Ground. We enter a very exciting period in the club's history and
potentially bring Europa League group stage football to the Olympic Stadium
this season. Our European adventure starts against NK Domžale in Slovenia
and this is the first meeting between the Slovenian and English club. Mete
Kalkavan from Istanbul, Turkey is the referee in the middle for this 3rd
Round Europa League 1st leg tie.
What a very interesting first half! Looking at the challenges by NK Domžale,
I thought I was watching a different sport with some of them being very
questionable and unnecessary with some even going unpunished. Andy Carroll
was the most fouled player in the first half and the first caution of the
game went to the NK Domžale centre-back for pulling Carroll down outside the
box. I must mention that the International Football Association Board (IFAB)
want to crack down on "intolerable behaviour" by the players. Running to
contest decisions, arguing face-to-face with officials, and "visibly
disrespectful" actions will result in yellow cards and if this was a Premier
League game, Carroll will needs to control his reaction after protesting
with the assistant referee. The biggest talking point of the half was the
harsh penalty awarded to NK Domžale Antonio lost the ball deep inside the
NK Domžale half and after a very good counter attack, the NK Domžale striker
dummied and his shot grazed between Håvard Nordtveit's arm and rib cage. The
Turkish referee pointed to the spot but I feel this is a very harsh
decision. Having said that, I think the motion of Nordtveit's arm toward the
ball made up referee's mind and deemed it as intentional handball.
Regardless, in my opinion there was no obvious intent to stop/interfere with
an attack, the one thing the referee did get correct was to only punish
Nordtveit was a caution, and not to send off the Norwegian. The law for
Denying an Obvious Goalscoring Opportunity has changed and does not always
warrant in a red card. Players committing accidental fouls that deny
goal-scoring opportunities in the penalty area will not be automatically
sent off, with a yellow card sufficient punishment. The Turkish referee also
awarded West Ham a penalty in the first half and this decision I do agree
with. Andy Carroll sent the ball back in the box in the direction of Winston
Reid after NK Domžale half cleared the danger. Reid won the ball in the air
before the NK Domžale goalkeeper came steaming out and clattering the Kiwi
international. The referee was correct to award the penalty on this occasion
after a reckless challenge by the young goalkeeper.
The second half seemed more calm than the first half with a couple of NK
Domžale players getting over enthusiastic in some of their attempts to win
the ball back. NK Domžale's Horvat was the only player cautioned in the
second half, the NK Domžale player went into the Turkish referee's note book
after a series of fouls topped off by pulling Pedro Obiang after a promising
counter attack. Apart from that, no big talking points to highlight but
overall it wasn't a great performance by the referee.
Overall, a nervy refereeing performance by Mete Kalkavan, it didnt look like
he was confident and convinced with his own decision making, especially
after awarding that very questionable penalty to NK Domžale in the first
half. It's now all to play for next Thursday in our first competitive game
at the Olympic Stadium. We go with an away goal and Adrian single handily
saved us from even more embarrassment. With a lot of the first time
available and a strong squad, we did miss that cutting edge especially with
Antonio looking a little loss. We definitely need to turn this around and
hope Slav and the team pull together and get a result. Throughout the
season, I will be giving my opinion on decision making by referees and
analysis for The West Ham Way for as many West Ham games I can, you can
follow me on Twitter @SamRoyden and tweet me using the hashtag #TWHWRef
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK DOMZALE 2-1 WEST HAM UNITED – MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 10:14PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
West Ham's European Away woes continued this evening as they were beaten 2-1
in Ljubljana by NK Domzale, which means the club have now lost their last
three European ties away from home.
Their fate could've been even worse if it wasn't for a spectacular double
save near the end of the game by Adrian to keep the scoreline at 2-1.
Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead from the spot after the referee awarded a
debatable penalty when the ball struck Havard Nordtveit's arm and then he
grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal when Michail Antonio was caught
well out of position in the second half.
Mark Noble converted the Hammer's spot kick awarded for a foul by the
goalkeeper on Winston Reid.
The Hammers went into the game with a strong line-up including Adrian in
goal.
The back four consisted of Michail Antonio and Sam Byram at fullback,
Winston Reid and Norwegian International Havard Nordtveit at centreback.
Captain Mark Noble anchored the midfield with Cheikh Kouyate and Pedro
Obiang. Sofiane Feghouli started on the right wing with Enner Valencia on
the left and Andy Carroll up front.
Gokhan Tore missed the game after suffering a knock in training last night
and the Hammers were also without their three Euro 2016 players, Payet,
Collins and Ogbonna plus the injured Cresswell and Lanzini.
Slaven Bilic had to watch the game from the stands as he was serving a
suspension for his sending off against FC Astra last year when the Hammers
were eliminated from the Europa League.
Although the Hammers are still in a strong position to qualify, many of the
faithful will be concerned by this performance when a team consisting of all
first team squad players struggled to break down Domzale and looked so weak
at the back on the counter attack. They will also be frustrated with the
Manager's continual insistence to play Michail Antonio at right back.
Only time will tell if the Manager will change his stance on Antonio but
rest assured if the past is anything to go by West Ham never produce two
poor performances in a row so they should be well prepared for the second
leg to open their new Stadium next Thursday.
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West Ham winger Gokhan Tore to have knee injury scanned
By Andrew Dickson
Last Updated: 29/07/16 8:37am
SSN
West Ham winger Gokhan Tore requires a scan on his knee injury, after being
hurt in training on Monday. The Turkish winger, spending the season on loan
from Besiktas, missed Thursday's 2-1 Europa League qualifying defeat to
Slovenian side Domzale in Ljubljana. He will be assessed on Friday but with
Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini also out, assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic concedes the club's hand might be forced. "Gokhan Tore was injured
in training on Monday and he must have a scan," Jurcevic told West Ham's
official. "He will have a scan on Friday and we hope it will not be serious.
"Maybe we will possibly do something in the transfer market because we need
players in some positions, because Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini are
injured and cannot play for a long time. "Next week (for the second leg
against Domzale), Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins will be in training so we
maybe will have some more players, or maybe we will have the same squad.
"Tore has hurt his knee, but we are not sure how serious, It was a very easy
training, but after five minutes he felt some pain in his knee. "With
Lanzini, we don't have exact information. He will come back from America,
where he wanted to play in the Olympic Games for Argentina. "We don't know,
but we think he will not be fit for the next game against Domzale."
West Ham must win their first game at the Olympic Stadium if they are to
overturn the deficit againts Domzale and progress in the Europa League, and
Jurcevic expects significant improvement from the team. "Domzale were really
good," he added. "Our performance was not so good and maybe I can say it was
average in the first half and it was 1-1. "We were not satisfied with this
result and in the second half was played bad and Domzale was the better team
and won 2-1. "Okay, we were maybe not in our top form because it was our
first game and we were without some very important players and only had
young players on the bench but this is not an excuse. "I am sure we will be
better next week. It will be very difficult but I'm optimistic and I hope it
will be a different game in the Olympic Stadium. "It's a special game
because it's the first game at the Olympic Stadium with about 54,000
spectactors. "We must be better, we must win this game in our stadium
because we also have big ambitions in Europe, but it will be very tough
because Domzale showed they are a good team."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham branded "average" after Europa League defeat to Slovenian side NK
Domzale
23:32, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 23:33, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored either side of a Mark Noble penalty to leave the Hammers
with it all to do in thrit third qualifying round tie
The Mirror
West Ham were branded "average" and "bad" by assistant manager Nikola
Jurcevic after suffering a shock Europa League defeat to Slovenian minnows
NK Domzale. Domzale, the third best team in Slovenia, secured a famous 2-1
win to take into next week's third qualifying round second leg which will be
the Hammers' first game at the Olympic Stadium. Matic Crnic, the game's best
player, fired Domzale ahead from the spot after Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball. Domzale keeper Axel Maraval flattened Winston Reid
as he came out to punch clear and Mark Noble grabbed the ball to coolly
level the game. The hosts regained the lead shortly after the re-start with
a slick passing move ending with tricky winger Crnic cutting in from the
left and bending his second of the night and the winner into Adrian's far
corner. West Ham No 2 Jurcevic was dissatisfied with the Hammers' display.
"Our performance was not so good the first half," Jurcevic remarked. "It was
average it was 1-1 at half time. We were satisfied with this score but in
the second half we played bad.
"Domzale were the better team. We are not now maybe in our top form because
it is our first official game but this is not an excuse. Domzale was better
and I hope we will we better in one week in the second game. "It is a
special game first game at the stadium about 60,000 spectators and we must
be better. We must win this game in our stadium because we have big
ambitions in Europe. "But it will be tough because Domzale showed they are a
very good team. We hope we can be better." West Ham are sweating on the
fitness of summer loan signing Gokhan Tore after he suffered a knee injury
in training on the eve of the match. The Turkish winger due to have will
have a scan on the injury today.
West Ham United via GettyAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and
Gaber DobrovoljcAndy Carroll in action against Kenan Horic and Gaber
Dobrovoljc
West Ham: Adrian 6; Antonio 4 (Quina 81, 5), Nordtveit 6, Reid 6, Byram 5;
Obiang 7, Kouyate 6; Feghouli 7, Noble 6, Valencia 6; Carroll 5.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to confirm loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri
Jonathan Calleri to join from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado
22-year-old striker scored 16 goals for Brazilian club Sao Paulo last season
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic says his squad is still too small to compete
Summer target Carlos Bacca is yet to decide on a move to West Ham
By RORY O'CALLAGHAN FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 10:41, 29 July 2016 | UPDATED: 10:41, 29 July 2016
West Ham are set to confirm the loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan
Calleri from Deportivo Maldonado as Slaven Bilic looks to build a squad
capable of fighting on four fronts this season. The 22-year-old, who made
his name at Boca Juniors, spent the majority of the last campaign on loan at
Brazilian club Sao Paulo - scoring 16 goals in 31 appearances. Calleri, who
was reportedly a January transfer target of Chelsea last season, is regarded
as one of the most talented young strikers in South America.
JONATHAN CALLERI'S CAREER STATS
Born: September 23, 1993 (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Clubs: All Boys, Boca Juniors, Deportivo Maldonado, Sao Paulo
Appearances: 120
Goals: 45
Honours: Primera Division 2015 (Boca Juniors), Copa Argentina 2015 (Boca
Juniors)
The Argentine is set to join up with compatriot Manuel Lanzini, who could
miss the start of the season after injuring his knee on international duty
with Argentina at the Olympic Games in Rio. Calleri's arrival at West Ham
eases some of the pressure on Bilic, who admitted this week that he believes
his squad is too small to compete in the Premier League.
'We are trying to get one or two players that are really hungry and keen to
join us and they are extremely quality players,' said Bilic. 'Hopefully we
are going to get one or two of them, depending also on Lanzini's situation,
which we are going to know only in a few days' time. Still, we don't have a
squad big enough to compete, even in the Premier League.'
West Ham have been knocked back in their attempts to bolster their squad
this summer, with targets Michy Batshuayi and Alexandre Lacazette both
turning down a move to the Olympic Stadium. Meanwhile, AC Milan striker
Carlos Bacca is yet to make a decision over a possible transfer to East
London after the two clubs agreed a £26million deal for the Colombian.
West Ham have already signed five new players this summer, including former
Valencia winger Sofiane Feghouli, but Bilic is keen to add to his squad
before the start of the new campaign. The Hammers could be competing in four
separate competitions this season, if they can overturn a 2-1 first-leg
deficit against Slovenian club NK Domzale in the Europa League's third
qualifying round.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Former West Ham player Jack Collison is still living
his footballing dream.
By Sokkaa -29th July 2016
http://sokkaa.com/
Jack dislocated his right kneecap against Wigan Athletic in March 2009,
which led to a string of knee injuries and changed the course of his career,
which was heading into a bright direction.
Collison began his career at the age of sixteen. He scored 14 goals in 121
games for the Hammers between 2007-2014. Post retirement at a meagre age of
27, one that is considered the prime age for a footballer to peak, Jack is
still chasing his dream off the pitch. I caught up with the Ex-Welsh
international footballer to discuss life post football.
1. Describe life after football.
Interesting, would probably be the best word to describe it. At the
beginning I really struggled, it was hard to even watch a game on TV let
alone go and watch one live. But by missing a full season prior to
announcing my retirement after a brief comeback with Peterborough United, I
decided to get motivated and start planning for the future. I threw myself
into various ventures and made sure I was busy. Currently I am absolutely
loving coaching and through this I have fell back in love with the beautiful
game.
2. Very often, people and youngsters these days believe that footballers
have an easy life. How does it feel when you look back at the dreaded
injury, which changed your career plan?
If I'm honest I feel very blessed that I got a small taste of the big time.
I absolutely loved every moment of being a footballer and there is no better
feeling than walking out in front of thousands of people on a Saturday to
play the game you love. I was unfortunate in the way I had so many injuries
throughout my career, and deep down there will always be the sickening
feeling of 'what if' .people don't often get to see the endless hours in the
gym, rehabbing and that side of the game for injured players, but now I can
no longer play I appreciate the moments out on the pitch even more.
3. Is it true that Chelsea was your club as a kid? Who was your
favourite player?
Yea I used to go to Chelsea with my dad when I could. I used to love
watching Zola and it was unbelievable to play under one of my heroes at West
Ham. Even then he was the best player on the pitch, he was that good.
4. We've been hearing a lot about the Jack Collison Soccer School opened
along with your old friend. Tell us more about the school?
During a period when I was injured I decided to start a new project.
Alongside my good friend Russell short we felt there was an opportunity to
bring high class coaching to grass roots level. We have a heavy emphasis on
having fun and creating a positive environment for the kids to learn. We're
also very lucky that with our contacts we have managed to provide our JCss
kids with memorable moments, such as meeting premier league footballers and
Olympic gold medalists. I am very passionate about the soccer school and
it's been great to watch it grow.
5. In this day and age, many sportsmen opt to start some kind of
training camp or school post retirement. How would you describe yours
differently?
I believe we create a special environment with our energetic coaches. They
really inspire the kids and help them step out of their comfort zone and
enjoy playing football. We are also very lucky that we can get some
fantastic guests down and inspire the kids in that way. We try to keep it
fresh, innovative and moving with the times. I also hope our passion shines
throughout our coaching and we aim to send every kid home with a smile.
6. Let's return to West Ham days for a bit. What was your favourite
moment in a Hammers shirt?
I had a few wonderful moments. I throughly enjoyed my first goal and my
debut but the ultimate highlight would have to be getting promoted at
Wembley with West Ham. The season as a whole was an incredible journey and
winning in front of all those fans was a wonderful experience.
7. Many youngsters find it tough to deal with injuries or being side
lined these days. What advice would you give young players linking this to
your injury and the way you handled the massive news?
I would say always have a back up plan. Try and be proactive and plan for
life after football. Other than that I would say enjoy every moment whilst
your playing. You never know when it will be over so cherish every moment.
8. Is it important to be mentally tough in football? Aggression or
patience?
Yes you have to be very mentally tough and the psychology side is having a
larger impact on football. It's a lot more common nowadays for teams to use
psychologists at all levels. I have found that the kids who seem to go on
and do well have a burning desire to succeed. They throw themselves into
every situation, always looking to improve. It's almost as if you can see
the fire within certain people and that's imperative to make it. Once you
get there patience is essential as there will be many frustrating moments
alongside the great times, it's how you deal with the tough times that often
define you as a player and a person.
9. Wales had a dream tournament at the Euros. What should they do to
maintain and carry on this form until the FIFA WC in 2018?
They need to keep building on the positives. It's great news that Chris
Coleman has signed a new contract and hopefully him and his team can
continue to build something special. Now the country has had a taste of the
big time they will be keen to get the team to the World Cup. They certainly
have the players, and foundations to do that.
10. Do you see yourself as a club manager anytime soon?
I have a lot to learn in terms of management but I am really enjoying my
time with the u18s at Peterborough. However I am very motivated, always keen
to learn and strive to be the best I can possibly be. If that is enough to
get me into management then great, I certainly would love the chance.
11. I see that you're studying for a degree in sports writing and
broadcasting, what's new on that front?
Yes it is another passion of mine. I have always been a keen writer but
never published any of my work up until recently. Once again during a period
of being injured I saw the course on the PfA website and decided to try it
out. It has been very testing at times but I am half way through and very
keen to finish it off. I am also currently working on a book so watch this
space.
12. Where do you see the JC Soccer School heading in the next five years?
My partner Russell and I have big plans. We are keen to crack America and
have our second camp in Philadelphia coming up in a few weeks that we are
really excited about. We want to take it global and although we have only
been running for 18 months we have made good progress.
13. There was a JC Soccer School camp in USA recently. How were the
atmosphere and the experience??
It was an incredible experience in Boston. I have already worked with some
American kids previously and it was great to get the chance to again. They
are so competitive, and keen to learn. It's very refreshing and I'm excited
to try and create something special state side and improve the standard of
'soccer' wherever we go.
14. Shefford is a place closest to your heart. Recite some childhood
football memories?
I grew up in Shefford and had a wonderful childhood there. I still have
great relationships with the local schools and teams so it made sense to
take the soccer school to Bedfordshire. We have a great product and the
local kids seem to like what we have to offer. It's also great to see many
local people going out of their way to help us out in whatever way they can,
especially Robert Bloomfield and Samuel Whitbread schools, they have been
incredible.
15. Who will win the Premier League 2017/2018 and why?
Manchester United – simply because of Mourinho. I think he is incredible.
16. If you had to give one piece of advice to aspiring players, what would
it be?
Just to enjoy every moment. Whether it's training or a game. Love what you
do and cherish the good moments, those special wins and wonderful goals.
17. Five years down the line, what do we see Jack Collison doing?
Who knows. Maybe coaching, maybe in America. I'm really enjoying my role at
the moment and keen to improve so we will see where it takes me.
Thank you Jack for sharing your experiences with Sokkaa and we wish you the
very best for all your future endeavours.
Original interview by Tina MATEEN for Sokkaa
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham captain Mark Noble bemoans Domzale penalty but admits Hammers
deserved to lose
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
West Ham midfielder Mark Noble was not convinced by the penalty that gave NK
Domzale an early lead at Stozice Stadium. However Noble admitted the
Slovenian minnows deserved the victory that has left West Ham's Europa
League future in doubt. The Hammers enter the second leg of their Europa
League third-round qualifier with a 2-1 deficit after Matic Crnic pounced in
each half, the opener delivered from the spot after debutant Havard
Nordtveit was adjudged to have handled the ball. Captain Noble equalised
with a penalty, but West Ham were comfortably second best and their skipper
has demanded an improvement in their first outing at the Olympic Stadium
next Thursday. "I don't think it was a penalty in the first half, but you
have to get on with it and we ended up losing the game," Noble told BT
Sport. "Playing at the Olympic Stadium is something to look forward to, but
obviously this result isn't ideal. "It's our first game there and we've got
to be positive - I'm sure the fans will be behind us - and win the game.
"You're going to miss a player like Dimitri Payet of course, but that's no
excuse. We had a good enough team to come here and win but we didn't do
that. "These games are tough, but we didn't play well. They played well and
deserved it."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hungry Feghouli will provide West Ham width
Adrian Clarke 29/07/2016
The Premier League
This summer's transfer window still has over a month to run but already
we've seen a host of exciting newcomers sign for Premier League clubs. As
part of our build up to the 2016/17 campaign, tactics expert Adrian Clarke
runs the rule over what some of the new faces will offer in the coming
months. After looking at Middlesbrough's Marten de Roon, Clarke's attentions
turn to a winger hoping to make up for lost time at West Ham United. The
signing of Sofiane Feghouli is sure to give West Ham supporters yet further
cause for optimism in the club's first season at the London Stadium. The
right-sided midfielder, 26, should be approaching his peak years following
his move from Valencia. Fast, powerful and extremely positive on the ball,
Feghouli will relish the opportunity of taking on Premier League full-backs
on English soil. It's expected that the Algerian will compete with Michail
Antonio for a starting berth, but with the ex-Nottingham Forest man often
utilized at right-back, there's a possibility the two could combine to form
an athletic partnership down that side of the pitch. In many respects last
season's Hammers squad was overloaded with creators favouring to open up
defences from central positions, so by adding another touchline-hugging
winger to their ranks it creates far better balance within the group. Phil
Neville, his former coach at Valencia, once described the winger as a
big-game player, and with 10 UEFA Champions League goals to his name, there
is an element of pedigree to his record. Although far from prolific, the
Algeria international has scored between five and seven goals in each of the
last five campaigns. Last season was a virtual write-off however. After
falling out with Valencia's owner, the winger saw his game-time limited and
he grew into a figure of great frustration. With fire in his belly, a fresh
challenge, and the chance to make up for lost time in east London, Feghouli
could be just the right man for Slaven Bilic. Feghouli scored in West Ham's
3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Karlsruher SC. Watch full-match
highlights.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Daily WHUFC News - 29th July 2016
Domzale double downs Hammers
WHUFC.com
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round First Leg, Stadion Stozice,
Ljubljana, Slovenia,
West Ham United have work to do in the second leg of their UEFA Europa
League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale after falling to a 2-1
defeat in Slovenia on Thursday.
A Matic Crnic double gave the hosts a first leg advantage despite Mark
Noble's successful penalty conversion in the first half.
Luka Elsner's Domzale side were impressive and posed a threat on the break
throughout, not least from their Slovenian international Crnic on the left
hand side.
With Slaven Bilic serving the second game of a UEFA touchline ban, the
Hammers were unable to find a route back into the contest once Crnic has
re-established the hosts' lead soon after the interval and will need to up
their game at London Stadium a week today.
The visitors were dealt an early shock when Havard Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball inside the area with eleven minutes on the clock.
The Norway international was booked for his protests and Bilic's men had to
deal with falling behind as Crnic confidently beat Adrian's dive with a
well-placed penalty into the top left corner.
West Ham were not behind for long, however, as the referee pointed to the
spot again - and this time in their favour - seven minutes later.
There was no doubt about this decision as Winston Reid beat goalkeeper Axel
Maraval to flick the ball on and felt the full force of his attempted punch
clear.
Noble is Mr Reliable from the spot and he placed the ball down the middle to
register his 25th successful penalty conversion in Claret and Blue.
If a goal apiece in the opening 18 minutes represented an open start, the
game was not about to close up yet, with both sides putting more emphasis on
their attacking than defending.
Domzale were finding joy down their left flank and the goalscorer Crnic was
left in space 28 minutes in, and only just missed the onrushing men with his
dangerous low cross.
At the other end, Pedro Obiang shot not far wide of the left hand post after
Andy Carroll flicked a left-wing corner on, but the chances continued to
flow and Domzale's Marko Alvir went close with a header over the top.
As the half drew to a close the teams traded chances - Benjamin Morel
curling a free-kick over at one end before Nordtveit headed over at the
other.
Domzale's threat down the left was clear in the first half, and from that
source that they retook the lead just four minutes after the interval.
Crnic was the man on target again, cutting inside before finding the bottom
right hand corner of the net from 15 yards.
Ten minutes later, Adrian intervened crucially with a touch behind to
prevent Jure Balkovec from adding a third and the Hammers needed to regroup.
Midway through the half the visitors shifted their personnel across the
pitch, with Nordveit moving to right back, Kouyate centre half and Antonio
on the left wing.
However, it was Domzale who still looked the more threatening and Zan Majer
lined up a shot from 25 yards and Adrian had to acrobatically touch over.
Seven minutes from time Noble did well to jockey Crnic and deflect his shot
behind, and Adrian had to make a fine double save at the death, meaning the
Hammers did not have to make up more than a single-goal deficit at London
Stadium next week.
NK Domzale: Maraval; Brachi, Horic, Dobrovoljc, Balkovec; Alvir, Horvat,
Majer (Vetrih 85); Morel (Repas 77), Mance, Crnic (Juninho 90)
Subs: Klop, Milic, Vuk, Sirok, Blazic
Goals: Crnic pen 11, Crnic 49
Booked: Horvat
West Ham United: Adrian; Antonio (Quina 80), Nordtveit, Reid, Byram; Noble,
Kouyate, Obiang; Feghouli, Carroll, Valencia
Subs: Randolph, Burke, Oxford, Page, Cullen, Fletcher
Goal: Noble pen 18
Booked: Nordtveit
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
THU, 28 JUL 2016
EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING THIRD ROUND - 1ST LEG
BBC.co.uk
West Ham endured a tricky start to their season as they lost 2-1 to NK
Domzale in a Europa League qualifier in Slovenia. The Hammers are well
placed to progress in next week's second leg - the first competitive game at
the Olympic Stadium - thanks to Mark Noble's penalty. But for large periods,
Slaven Bilic's side were on the back foot. Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead
from the spot and then grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal. Next week
promises to be a sell-out encounter, with more than 50,000 inside the
Hammers' new home. Noble's penalty has given West Ham an away goal that
means a 1-0 win in the home leg will take them through. But in front of
barely 3,000 in Ljubjana - the game was moved from the home of Domzale - the
Premier League side faded badly after a bright first-half showing and looked
well short of match sharpness.
Crnic and Noble exchanged early penalties - with Domzale's awarded for a
Havard Nordtveit handball and West Ham's for a foul on Winston Reid. The
home side then went ahead at the start of the second half when Crnic cut in
from the left and curled home. West Ham goalkeeper Adrian had to be at his
best to prevent Amedej Vetrih from adding a third with a spectacular late
save. The Hammers were without last season's standout player Dimitri Payet,
and while new signing Sofiane Feghouli enjoyed an impressive start, he
barely had a touch in the second half. And at the back Bilic looks to have
problems. Michail Antonio was at fault for Crnic's second goal and looked
fragile all night, while former Leeds full-back Sam Byram looked makeshift
on the left. First-choice Aaron Cresswell is set to be out for four months
with a knee injury and Bilic may need to enter the transfer market before
the start of the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE EUROPA LEAGUE - A BLESSING OR A CURSE?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 4:57PM
TheWestHamWay.couk
Europa League 12
This article is written by Armchair Hammer
We got off to a blistering start last season. Confidence was high almost
from the first kick off. We had an (almost) fully fit squad to choose from.
A new manager to bring us a more entertaining brand of football. Some
exciting signings. And the prospect of an emotional farewell to our
spiritual home. With the benefit of hindsight, it was a season destined for
great things. That win at Arsenal set the tone for our entire season.
Fast forward twelve months and our journey begins again.
But it's a little different this year.
We have a new stadium which is a bit of a venture into the unknown. There's
some injuries to contend with to important players. The promise of big
signings hasn't materialised. Our most important players are a few weeks
behind on fitness because of their involvement with Euro 2016. And there's
the prospect of more games.
Loads more games.
You might be thinking - that's no different to last season. And you'd be
right.
But I can't help but feel the Europa League adventure last season was far
down our list of priorities.
This season, I'd expect it to be taken a little more seriously. The club
should be aiming for at least the group stages to demonstrate year on year
progression. It's reasonable to expect that as a fan and it's perfectly
achievable. Exciting, yes. But also my biggest cause for concern.
Cast your mind back to our Europa League cameo last season. We qualified
through the fair play route - which turned out to be a little ironic
considering our dismissal record in the competition. Youth were given a run
out and players like Oxford and Samuelsen were given some valuable game
time. As the rounds progressed, we saw more first teamers drafted in.
The players were gaining fitness. Rather than getting match sharpness
through a series of friendlies, we were having to compete - and win - to
progress. It meant that by the time we lined up to face Arsenal, the team
was already near full throttle. I suspect that was a decisive factor in the
win. We caught them cold.
Now this season, we are entering the Europa League a little later.
Pre-season training has reverted back to type - friendlies. With key players
(Payet and Collins) enjoying a staggered break after their summer exertions,
I doubt they'll be fully fit for the start of the season. Cresswell is out
for a few months and will be joined in the treatment room by Lanzini.
Our search for a striker is dragging on longer than the board would like it
to, I'm sure. Bringing in players from other leagues can be a tricky
process. You often see new signings struggle in the Premiership in their
first season. There's often a new language, new culture, a faster more
physical brand of football to contend with. The later players are signed in
the transfer window, the less time they have to adapt to their new
surroundings before the season starts - and for their teammates to adapt to
them.
Now those are my reasons - and here is my point.
I'm doubting our ability to start the Premier League season in the manner we
did last year - and getting that early momentum that carried us through a
brilliant season.
I hope I'm wrong.
But if I'm not, we'll need all of our best performers at their peak as we
head towards the Christmas run-in. Whether that is to enable us to stay in
touch with the top teams - or keep away from the relegation battle.
The thing is, if we don't start collecting wins early in the season, and we
qualify for the Europa League group stages, the games will come thick and
fast as we head towards the end of the year. We all know what the outcome
tends to be for teams on Sunday's that play in Europe on a Thursday.
For those of you that haven't noticed the pattern - they lose - or draw at
best. Rarely does an inexperienced team playing in Europe win a game the
following weekend.
I can hear you all groaning - telling me I'm being way too negative.
But bear with me. I'm not saying this will happen - I hope it doesn't. It
would make for an incredibly uncomfortable second half of the season.
What I want to see is Bilic using the Europa League to help develop a number
of our promising youngsters. Give them a chance to gain the experience
they'll need to push on and feature in the Premier League. They might make
mistakes - and they might lose, but it'll help them learn.
They might surprise us too - and qualify for the next round.
With our big guns securing us valuable points in the Premiership, we would
have the luxury of being able to bring them in to European games at the
latter stages, safe in the knowledge we have points on the board
domestically.
In case you are wondering, my son doesn't share my concerns. He thinks we'll
win the league - and possibly a cup. That's the beauty of youth - you're not
scarred by history.
What do you think? Am I worrying needlessly?
Are we at that stage as a club where we should be challenging on all fronts
or would you accept a lower priority for the cup competitions in order to
secure a better league finish?
I'll look forward to reading your thoughts.
COYI
Armchair Hammer
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Matic Crnic scores twice to stun Hammers in Europa
League first leg
By Tom Bennett
Last Updated: 28/07/16 9:44pm
SSN
West Ham were beaten 2-1 by NK Domzale as Matic Crnic scored twice to give
the Slovenian underdogs a narrow advantage after the first leg of the Europa
League third qualifying round tie.
Domzale took the lead against the run of play after 11 minutes on Thursday
night when a shot cannoned off the arm of debutant Havard Nordtveit and the
referee pointed to the spot.
It was a contentious decision, with the centre-back arguing that he was
unable to get out of the way, but the decision had been made and Crnic
calmly dispatched the penalty beyond Adrian.
West Ham crashed out of the Europa League at this same stage last season,
but there were no signs of nerves after going behind and it took the Hammers
just seven minutes to draw level. A spot of head tennis inside the area
resulted in Domzale goalkeeper clearing out Winston Reid with a punch to the
head, prompting the second penalty of the game - and a far less contentious
one.
The ever-reliable Mark Noble sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it
1-1, but West Ham struggled to create any further clear-cut chances in a
rusty first-half performance.
Manager Slaven Bilic, banned from the touchline as he served the second of a
two-game suspension, would have been hoping for better from his team after
the break.
But it was Domzale who stepped up a level and the hosts secured the win when
the excellent Crnic curled a finish into the far corner from the edge of the
box after getting in behind the out-of-position Antonio in the 49th minute.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Mark Noble scores away goal but Hammers slump to
defeat in Slovenia
21:34, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 21:43, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded an impressive
victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash
The Mirror
West Ham have it all to do in next week's second leg after slumping to
defeat in Slovenia. Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded
an impressive victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash. The
visitors fell behind after 11 minutes after a handball in the area, with
Crnic stepping up to fire the penalty into the top corner. However, the
Hammers levelled shortly after with a spot-kick of their own when Winston
Reid was clattered in the box.
Mark Noble stepped up to make no mistake from 12 yards. However, Domzale
restored their lead early in the second half when Crnic raced clear to fire
past Adrian. The Hammers must win at the Olympic Stadium next week to stand
any chance of progressing.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round First Leg, Stadion Stozice,
Ljubljana, Slovenia,
West Ham United have work to do in the second leg of their UEFA Europa
League third qualifying round tie against NK Domzale after falling to a 2-1
defeat in Slovenia on Thursday.
A Matic Crnic double gave the hosts a first leg advantage despite Mark
Noble's successful penalty conversion in the first half.
Luka Elsner's Domzale side were impressive and posed a threat on the break
throughout, not least from their Slovenian international Crnic on the left
hand side.
With Slaven Bilic serving the second game of a UEFA touchline ban, the
Hammers were unable to find a route back into the contest once Crnic has
re-established the hosts' lead soon after the interval and will need to up
their game at London Stadium a week today.
The visitors were dealt an early shock when Havard Nordtveit was harshly
penalised for handball inside the area with eleven minutes on the clock.
The Norway international was booked for his protests and Bilic's men had to
deal with falling behind as Crnic confidently beat Adrian's dive with a
well-placed penalty into the top left corner.
West Ham were not behind for long, however, as the referee pointed to the
spot again - and this time in their favour - seven minutes later.
There was no doubt about this decision as Winston Reid beat goalkeeper Axel
Maraval to flick the ball on and felt the full force of his attempted punch
clear.
Noble is Mr Reliable from the spot and he placed the ball down the middle to
register his 25th successful penalty conversion in Claret and Blue.
If a goal apiece in the opening 18 minutes represented an open start, the
game was not about to close up yet, with both sides putting more emphasis on
their attacking than defending.
Domzale were finding joy down their left flank and the goalscorer Crnic was
left in space 28 minutes in, and only just missed the onrushing men with his
dangerous low cross.
At the other end, Pedro Obiang shot not far wide of the left hand post after
Andy Carroll flicked a left-wing corner on, but the chances continued to
flow and Domzale's Marko Alvir went close with a header over the top.
As the half drew to a close the teams traded chances - Benjamin Morel
curling a free-kick over at one end before Nordtveit headed over at the
other.
Domzale's threat down the left was clear in the first half, and from that
source that they retook the lead just four minutes after the interval.
Crnic was the man on target again, cutting inside before finding the bottom
right hand corner of the net from 15 yards.
Ten minutes later, Adrian intervened crucially with a touch behind to
prevent Jure Balkovec from adding a third and the Hammers needed to regroup.
Midway through the half the visitors shifted their personnel across the
pitch, with Nordveit moving to right back, Kouyate centre half and Antonio
on the left wing.
However, it was Domzale who still looked the more threatening and Zan Majer
lined up a shot from 25 yards and Adrian had to acrobatically touch over.
Seven minutes from time Noble did well to jockey Crnic and deflect his shot
behind, and Adrian had to make a fine double save at the death, meaning the
Hammers did not have to make up more than a single-goal deficit at London
Stadium next week.
NK Domzale: Maraval; Brachi, Horic, Dobrovoljc, Balkovec; Alvir, Horvat,
Majer (Vetrih 85); Morel (Repas 77), Mance, Crnic (Juninho 90)
Subs: Klop, Milic, Vuk, Sirok, Blazic
Goals: Crnic pen 11, Crnic 49
Booked: Horvat
West Ham United: Adrian; Antonio (Quina 80), Nordtveit, Reid, Byram; Noble,
Kouyate, Obiang; Feghouli, Carroll, Valencia
Subs: Randolph, Burke, Oxford, Page, Cullen, Fletcher
Goal: Noble pen 18
Booked: Nordtveit
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham United
THU, 28 JUL 2016
EUROPA LEAGUE - QUALIFYING THIRD ROUND - 1ST LEG
BBC.co.uk
West Ham endured a tricky start to their season as they lost 2-1 to NK
Domzale in a Europa League qualifier in Slovenia. The Hammers are well
placed to progress in next week's second leg - the first competitive game at
the Olympic Stadium - thanks to Mark Noble's penalty. But for large periods,
Slaven Bilic's side were on the back foot. Matic Crnic put the hosts ahead
from the spot and then grabbed the winner with a fine solo goal. Next week
promises to be a sell-out encounter, with more than 50,000 inside the
Hammers' new home. Noble's penalty has given West Ham an away goal that
means a 1-0 win in the home leg will take them through. But in front of
barely 3,000 in Ljubjana - the game was moved from the home of Domzale - the
Premier League side faded badly after a bright first-half showing and looked
well short of match sharpness.
Crnic and Noble exchanged early penalties - with Domzale's awarded for a
Havard Nordtveit handball and West Ham's for a foul on Winston Reid. The
home side then went ahead at the start of the second half when Crnic cut in
from the left and curled home. West Ham goalkeeper Adrian had to be at his
best to prevent Amedej Vetrih from adding a third with a spectacular late
save. The Hammers were without last season's standout player Dimitri Payet,
and while new signing Sofiane Feghouli enjoyed an impressive start, he
barely had a touch in the second half. And at the back Bilic looks to have
problems. Michail Antonio was at fault for Crnic's second goal and looked
fragile all night, while former Leeds full-back Sam Byram looked makeshift
on the left. First-choice Aaron Cresswell is set to be out for four months
with a knee injury and Bilic may need to enter the transfer market before
the start of the season.
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THE EUROPA LEAGUE - A BLESSING OR A CURSE?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 28 JULY 2016 AT 4:57PM
TheWestHamWay.couk
Europa League 12
This article is written by Armchair Hammer
We got off to a blistering start last season. Confidence was high almost
from the first kick off. We had an (almost) fully fit squad to choose from.
A new manager to bring us a more entertaining brand of football. Some
exciting signings. And the prospect of an emotional farewell to our
spiritual home. With the benefit of hindsight, it was a season destined for
great things. That win at Arsenal set the tone for our entire season.
Fast forward twelve months and our journey begins again.
But it's a little different this year.
We have a new stadium which is a bit of a venture into the unknown. There's
some injuries to contend with to important players. The promise of big
signings hasn't materialised. Our most important players are a few weeks
behind on fitness because of their involvement with Euro 2016. And there's
the prospect of more games.
Loads more games.
You might be thinking - that's no different to last season. And you'd be
right.
But I can't help but feel the Europa League adventure last season was far
down our list of priorities.
This season, I'd expect it to be taken a little more seriously. The club
should be aiming for at least the group stages to demonstrate year on year
progression. It's reasonable to expect that as a fan and it's perfectly
achievable. Exciting, yes. But also my biggest cause for concern.
Cast your mind back to our Europa League cameo last season. We qualified
through the fair play route - which turned out to be a little ironic
considering our dismissal record in the competition. Youth were given a run
out and players like Oxford and Samuelsen were given some valuable game
time. As the rounds progressed, we saw more first teamers drafted in.
The players were gaining fitness. Rather than getting match sharpness
through a series of friendlies, we were having to compete - and win - to
progress. It meant that by the time we lined up to face Arsenal, the team
was already near full throttle. I suspect that was a decisive factor in the
win. We caught them cold.
Now this season, we are entering the Europa League a little later.
Pre-season training has reverted back to type - friendlies. With key players
(Payet and Collins) enjoying a staggered break after their summer exertions,
I doubt they'll be fully fit for the start of the season. Cresswell is out
for a few months and will be joined in the treatment room by Lanzini.
Our search for a striker is dragging on longer than the board would like it
to, I'm sure. Bringing in players from other leagues can be a tricky
process. You often see new signings struggle in the Premiership in their
first season. There's often a new language, new culture, a faster more
physical brand of football to contend with. The later players are signed in
the transfer window, the less time they have to adapt to their new
surroundings before the season starts - and for their teammates to adapt to
them.
Now those are my reasons - and here is my point.
I'm doubting our ability to start the Premier League season in the manner we
did last year - and getting that early momentum that carried us through a
brilliant season.
I hope I'm wrong.
But if I'm not, we'll need all of our best performers at their peak as we
head towards the Christmas run-in. Whether that is to enable us to stay in
touch with the top teams - or keep away from the relegation battle.
The thing is, if we don't start collecting wins early in the season, and we
qualify for the Europa League group stages, the games will come thick and
fast as we head towards the end of the year. We all know what the outcome
tends to be for teams on Sunday's that play in Europe on a Thursday.
For those of you that haven't noticed the pattern - they lose - or draw at
best. Rarely does an inexperienced team playing in Europe win a game the
following weekend.
I can hear you all groaning - telling me I'm being way too negative.
But bear with me. I'm not saying this will happen - I hope it doesn't. It
would make for an incredibly uncomfortable second half of the season.
What I want to see is Bilic using the Europa League to help develop a number
of our promising youngsters. Give them a chance to gain the experience
they'll need to push on and feature in the Premier League. They might make
mistakes - and they might lose, but it'll help them learn.
They might surprise us too - and qualify for the next round.
With our big guns securing us valuable points in the Premiership, we would
have the luxury of being able to bring them in to European games at the
latter stages, safe in the knowledge we have points on the board
domestically.
In case you are wondering, my son doesn't share my concerns. He thinks we'll
win the league - and possibly a cup. That's the beauty of youth - you're not
scarred by history.
What do you think? Am I worrying needlessly?
Are we at that stage as a club where we should be challenging on all fronts
or would you accept a lower priority for the cup competitions in order to
secure a better league finish?
I'll look forward to reading your thoughts.
COYI
Armchair Hammer
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NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Matic Crnic scores twice to stun Hammers in Europa
League first leg
By Tom Bennett
Last Updated: 28/07/16 9:44pm
SSN
West Ham were beaten 2-1 by NK Domzale as Matic Crnic scored twice to give
the Slovenian underdogs a narrow advantage after the first leg of the Europa
League third qualifying round tie.
Domzale took the lead against the run of play after 11 minutes on Thursday
night when a shot cannoned off the arm of debutant Havard Nordtveit and the
referee pointed to the spot.
It was a contentious decision, with the centre-back arguing that he was
unable to get out of the way, but the decision had been made and Crnic
calmly dispatched the penalty beyond Adrian.
West Ham crashed out of the Europa League at this same stage last season,
but there were no signs of nerves after going behind and it took the Hammers
just seven minutes to draw level. A spot of head tennis inside the area
resulted in Domzale goalkeeper clearing out Winston Reid with a punch to the
head, prompting the second penalty of the game - and a far less contentious
one.
The ever-reliable Mark Noble sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it
1-1, but West Ham struggled to create any further clear-cut chances in a
rusty first-half performance.
Manager Slaven Bilic, banned from the touchline as he served the second of a
two-game suspension, would have been hoping for better from his team after
the break.
But it was Domzale who stepped up a level and the hosts secured the win when
the excellent Crnic curled a finish into the far corner from the edge of the
box after getting in behind the out-of-position Antonio in the 49th minute.
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NK Domzale 2-1 West Ham: Mark Noble scores away goal but Hammers slump to
defeat in Slovenia
21:34, 28 JUL 2016 UPDATED 21:43, 28 JUL 2016
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded an impressive
victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash
The Mirror
West Ham have it all to do in next week's second leg after slumping to
defeat in Slovenia. Matic Crnic scored once in each half as Domzale recorded
an impressive victory in the Europa League third qualifying round clash. The
visitors fell behind after 11 minutes after a handball in the area, with
Crnic stepping up to fire the penalty into the top corner. However, the
Hammers levelled shortly after with a spot-kick of their own when Winston
Reid was clattered in the box.
Mark Noble stepped up to make no mistake from 12 yards. However, Domzale
restored their lead early in the second half when Crnic raced clear to fire
past Adrian. The Hammers must win at the Olympic Stadium next week to stand
any chance of progressing.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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