West Ham 2-3 Juventus - Report & highlights
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll showed his qualities once again ahead of the new Premier League season with two goals against Juventus but substitute Simone Zaza grabbed a late winner to help the Italian champions come away with a 3-2 victory in the Betway Cup.
West Ham marked the prestigious fixture at the new Stadium with the official opening ceremony before the kick-off which was a fitting tribute to Hammers new home.
This might have been the last pre-season fixture before the opening Premier League game against Chelsea but Slaven Bilic's side showed they mean business with an impressive performance against the Italian giants.
Juventus raced into a two-goal lead following early goals from Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic.
But Carroll, who was a constant threat to the Juventus defence helped the Hammers get back into the game with two goals either side of half-time.
Nearly 54,000 fans turned out in their numbers once again and were thrilled to see Dimitri Payet make his first appearance at the new Stadium during the second half.
But Juventus came away with the victory after Zaza made it 3-2 with just five minutes left on the clock.
Bilic will certainly have been impressed with what he saw from his players and the goalscoring form of Carroll heading into the opening league game at Stamford Bridge on Monday 15 August.
The Hammers could have opened the scoring after 18 minutes following a mix-up in the Juventus defence. Josh Cullen passed the ball into the path of Enner Valencia who struck a low shot against the post.
The home side were made to pay for that missed opportunity as Juventus raced down the other end sixty seconds later and opened the scoring.
Mandzukic headed the ball into the path of Dybala who fired the ball past Adrian from close-range.
Juventus doubled their lead on 21 minutes when Dybala got the better of Winston Reid and squared the ball for Mandzukic who had the easy option of knocking the ball home.
The Hammers refused to lie down and could have found a way back into the game on the half hour mark when Sam Byram showed a great piece to flick the ball up and fire a volley which flew inches past the post.
Byram was involved in the heart of the action once again on 34 minutes when his cross fell perfectly for Carroll who saw his close-range header produce a great save from Buffon diving low to his left who managed to tip the ball onto the post.
Carroll refused to give up and showed his appetite by sliding loose ball over the line.
Juventus somehow failed to make it 3-1 on 38 minutes after Mandzukic' close-range header was superbly saved by Adrian.
The rebound fell to Alex Sandro who saw his shot superbly cleared off the line by Carroll and then Benatia saw his shot cannon back off the bar.
The Hammers drew level on 52 minutes when Mark Noble's free-kick fell perfectly for Carroll and he showed his aerial dominance once again by leaping above the Juventus defence and powering a close-range header past Buffon into the corner of the net.
This might have been a pre-season fixture, but both teams seemed determined to find the third goal and Juventus came close on 82 minutes when substitute Hernanes saw his free-kick clip the top of the bar.
The Italian giants then secured the winning goal on 85 minutes when Luca Marrone played a high ball over the top of the West Ham defence. Substitute Zaza took the ball down with his left foot and struck a powerful shot into the corner of the net.
West Ham: Adrian; Antonio (Payet 74), Ogbonna (Oxford 45), Reid (Collins 45), Byram (Page 85); Nordtveit, Noble (Quina 60), Cullen (Browne 82); Feghouli (Burke 45), Carroll (Fletcher 54), Valencia (Samuelsen 74)
Subs not used: Spiegel
Juventus: Buffon (Neto 45); Alves (Untersee 59), Benatia (Barzagli 58), Rugani (Chiellini 58), Alex Sandro (Kastanos 86); Pereyra (Zaza 69), Lemina (Marrone 78), Pjanic (Macek 78), Asamoh (Hernanes 68); Dybala (Pjaca 58), Mandzukic (Huguain 45)
Subs not used: Loria
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Attendance: 53,966
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Hammers officially open London Stadium
WHUFC.com
West Ham United opened the London Stadium with a fitting ceremony ahead of Sunday's Betway Cup meeting with Juventus.
The Hammers completed their journey to their new home with a 30-minute show featuring the Club's most-loyal Founders, legends and 54,000 fans.
The ceremony was highlighted by the opening of the new Sir Trevor Brooking Stand by the man himself and the Bobby Moore Stand by the late, great captain's grandson Freddie.
With tens of thousands of supporters taking to their seats early in the August sunshine, proceedings kicked-off with a video featuring many of the Club's 52,000 Founders – Season Ticket Holders in our first season on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park – including 100-year-old Mable Arnold.
MFL Brass Military Marching Brass Band and Fanfare Trumpeters then took centre-stage before five-time Hammer of the Year and 1980 FA Cup final hero Sir Trevor was invited to officially open the south stand, which has been named in his honour.
After a second musical interlude from MFL (Music for LONDON), Freddie Moore declared the north stand, named in tribute to West Ham and England's finest defender, open.
With bubbles, flames and T-shirts flying high in the air, fans were then treated to a big screen presentation charting the Hammers' journey to their new home.
Attention then turned to the pitch, where giant Home and Thames Ironworks commemorative shirts and the crests of the two clubs were unveiled.
Led by captains Mark Noble and Gianluigi Buffon, the two teams took to the pitch accompanied by a deafening chorus of Bubbles and a huge COME ON YOU IRONS! mosaic created by fans in the huge East Stand, before lining up for the singing of the British National Anthem by soprano Laura Wright.
Following the traditional handshakes and coin toss, it was then time for the Hammers and the Old Lady to take centre-stage at the iconic new home of West Ham United.
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From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Fan blogger Joe Difford reflects on an opening night to remember…
It feels like just yesterday Winston Reid's late winner against Manchester United helped us to bid farewell to the Boleyn Ground, our home for 112 years. It doesn't matter how much time passes, anyone who was fortunate enough to see the Hammers in the hallowed ground will never forget it.
But on Thursday evening, new history was written and in some style, as we came back to beat NK Domzale 3-0, progressing into the next round of the Europa League.
Excitement, apprehension, intrigue, every emotion was felt leading up to Thursday's clash, as we were going to be sitting in our new season ticket seats for the first time, singing bubbles for the first time, and hopefully winning for the first time at London Stadium.
It took just eight minutes for Cheikhou Kouyate to send the 54,000 Hammers into a frenzy with a neat back heel, and we dominated proceedings from there. Domzale gave a good account of themselves, forcing Darren Randolph into a number of saves throughout, but Mark Noble and Co. never really looked like conceding, and finished the job professionally.
Kouyate added a second after a fantastic Andy Carroll knock down, before the skipper Noble played a beautiful through pass which was controlled expertly by new signing Sofiane Feghouli, with the former Valencia winger firing home.
Aside from the powerhouse of Kouyate, the young pair or Sam Byram and Reece Oxford were particularly impressive, never looking out of place alongside experienced Hammers. Byram was on the left hand side, an unnatural role for him, but he was composed and confident throughout. Oxford on the other hand, made a number of inch perfect sliding tackles in and around the penalty area, prompting the full London Stadium to stand and applaud.
Havard Nordtveit impressed too in a midfield role, breaking up play and allowing Kouyate and Noble to push forward and fill in for the absent Dimitri Payet, yet to return following a great Euro campaign with France.
Despite the result, Slaven Bilic has recognised that we need to bring in a few more players if we are to continue to play on Thursday nights as well as compete in the Premier League. Top of this list looks to be Swansea's Andre Ayew, who has linked up with Payet before in the past for Marseille. Ayew is able to play out wide or as a striker, and with his addition we would have one of the most feared set of attackers in the top flight of English football.
Another forward-thinking man whose name has been circulating around social media is Mario Gomez. The German international may be in his early 30s, but this did not stop him from scoring 26 goals in 33 league appearances for Besiktas last season.
Just one competitive game has been played at our new home, but already it is starting to feel real. With more players likely to be arriving in the near future and fans tasting success courtesy of Kouyate and Feghouli, excitement is building ahead of the Premier League opener in just over a week's time.
For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com
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Carroll - It was a good day
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll was all smiles after scoring twice as West Ham United officially opened the Club's new London Stadium home with a five-goal thriller against Juventus.
While the Italian champions may have edged out their hosts in front of a record 53,966-strong crowd, the Hammers' No9 was at his powerful best with a pair of trademark goals.
After falling 2-0 down to an impressive Juventus, Carroll followed up after Gianluigi Buffon had saved his initial effort from Sam Byram's centre, then levelled with an unstoppable header from Mark Noble's right-wing cross.
An impressive second half display looked likely to earn Slaven Bilic's team a draw, only for Italy duo Andrea Barzagli and Simone Zaza to combine for Juve's 85th-minute winner.
"The result didn't go our way, but it was good to get two goals and start scoring again," Carroll told West Ham TV after opening his account on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. "I think it was perfect for the players, the fans and the Club and great for everyone involved.
"It was a good day, the fans came out and were great in the lovely weather. It was nice to get scoring goals in this stadium as soon as possible and get a feel for it. It was good for the fans who turned up, too.
"I'm feeling good, you know. I got through pre-season really well, so now I'm just looking forward to the start of the season and to keep producing my performances and scoring goals and for the team to do well."
Carroll was full of praise for teammates Byram and Noble, who each provided the perfect ball for his to nod powerfully on the Juventus goal.
While Buffon made a spectacular stop to prevent his first effort going in, the Italy No1 was powerless to keep out Carroll's second effort. Then, seven minutes after half-time, he nodded Noble's cross into the bottom corner to level matters.
"I've been screaming out for crosses into the box since I've been here and two came in on Sunday and I've got my head on them and they ended up in the back of the net, which was great," he explained.
"It was a great save for the first one, which is why Buffon is one of the best, but I've managed to follow it in and got a tap-in."
Pre-season preparations complete, West Ham will spend the week working at Rush Green before travelling to Chelsea for their Premier League opener on Monday 15 August.
Before then, Carroll expects the Hammers to make further additions to their squad.
"We've got a good squad. The manager has done well in the transfer window and he has probably got a couple more signings to make to make us complete.
"We've bonded pretty well over pre-season. Our dressing room is very good at welcoming new people in and I think we're all relishing the start of the Premier League season now."
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Bilic happy with Juve test
WHUFC.com
Hammers come back from two goals down but are edged out 3-2 by Juventus in Betway Cup
Andy Carroll double brings his pre-season tally to four
53,966 Hammers pack out London Stadium to officially open Club's new home
Slaven Bilic was pleased with they way his team responded to a whirlwind Juventus start on Sunday as the Hammers officially opened London Stadium with an exciting Betway Cup clash against the Italian giants.
Simone Zaza's goal five minutes from time eventually defeated the Hammers by the odd goal in five, but Andy Carroll's double – after strikes from Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic inside the first 21 minutes – showed the boss enough to suggest his team are ready for the start of the Premier League season.
Again 54,000 fans packed into the Club's new home on a glorious summer's afternoon and Bilic was delighted with their backing.
"It was a good test for us," he said. "We started sloppily – we hit the post after 15 minutes but they are a top class team and if you are on the back foot and give them a yard, they can pass the ball and play football.
"If you give them three or four yards then it's too easy for them. That's what we gave them at the start – okay we played three nights ago and were a little bit tired – but then after that we came back into the game and changed the rhythm.
"It was much more aggressive, we made it harder for them and Andy scored his type of goals. They are of course very important for us and he is great for us.
"Then we put some young players in because we don't want to risk injuries and that kind of things. We thought it was going to end 2-2, but then we conceded one that from our point of view was too easy and sloppy.
"It was a packed Stadium against one of the biggest clubs and best teams in Europe.
"It was a good test for us and great to see the fans filling our Stadium again."
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West Ham mark official London Stadium opening with Juventus defeat
BBC.co.uk
West Ham marked the official opening of their new home with a 3-2 defeat against Italian champions Juventus in front of a 53,966 crowd. Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic gave the visitors a commanding 2-0 lead at the former Olympic Stadium, now known as the London Stadium. Andy Carroll pulled a goal back and then headed the equaliser before Simone Zaza hit the winner for Juventus. West Ham left Upton Park - their home for the past 112 years - in the summer. They overcame Slovenia's NK Domzale 4-2 on aggregate in their first game at the London Stadium last Thursday to reach the Europa League play-off round. West Ham's first Premier League game at the venue, which hosted athletics at London 2012, is against Bournemouth on 21 August.
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Bilic confirms Ayew and Masuaku deals
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven BIlic was dousing expectations at the Olympic Stadium this morning as he poured cold water on rumours that he is set to make a string of new signings ahead of the transfer window deadline.
The West Ham boss was quoted earlier in the week stating that he needed up to "five players" for his squad ahead of the the trasnfer deadline.
However he dismissed those rumours ahead of today's friendly clash with Juventus, when he stated he would be happy with just two.
"We are very close to signing a couple of players and that's it." he said. "When I said a few days ago that we are expecting to get five players I didn't mean five new players - but players like Payet, Lanzini and Cresswell who are going to be back.
"We are very close to signing Andre Ayew from Swansea and we are very close to signing Arthur Masuaku, the French left back from Olympiakos. It's almost done, but until it's done it's never done!
"We are trying to get quality players but we have marquee players, Feghouli is a marquee player, Tore is a marquee player. Andre Ayew is a big time marquee player. It doesn't have to be someone for 70 or 80million, we can't afford it.
"But we are close to signing a couple of them; if those two players come then I'm quite happy with my squad."
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On Arthur, the new king of West Ham
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic confirmed earlier today that the club are on the verge of signing Olympiacos full back Arthur Masuaku. So what do we know about our impending arrival?
The 22-year-old uncapped defender, who was born in Lille but possesses dual nationality (Congolese) has been the subject of much speculation regarding his future in the last few months.
And whilst West Ham are set to sign him from the Greek Superleague champions - hopefully in time for the Premier League's opening clash against Chelsea eight days hence - the Hammers were just one of a string of top clubs chasing him.
Last summer, at the end of his first season in Greece, reports linked Masuaku with several Serie A clubs including Roma, Inter and today's opponents, Juventus. Another, Genoa, saw a €4million bid rejected, which there was also interest from England recently with Sunderland reported to be monitoring his situation.
Prior to playing in Greece, Masuaku spent six seasons at Valenciennes, the French club with whom he made his breakthrough. A product of their youth system, he made his Ligue 1 debut in August 2013 before agrreing to join Olympiacos in a €300,000 switch ahead of the 2014/15 season.
West Ham are reported to be paying around £6million to sign the full back - whose highlights reel you may view below - as a replacement for Aaron Cresswell, who was injured during pre-season and expects to be sidelined until November.
And as has been pointed out once or twice now, by people who should probably know better, Masuaku's first name is actually 'Fuka', not 'Arthur'. What's not to like?
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Carroll eyes England spot
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's man of the match was pleased with his performance against Juventus at the Olympic Stadium this lunchtime - even though West Ham ultimately lost the game.
Carrroll, speaking to BT after the game admitted that he was pleased with his brace - and admitted that he would be delighted to become involved with England once again, should the opportunity present itself.
"In the first half I didn't get many balls in the box, there was very little of that and we needed more," he said. "The pitch was a bit sticky which didn't help us. It was very, very hot.
"But then there were two crosses that I got on the end of - and I'm just screaming out for more.
"It's been tough getting through pre-season in the last couple of years but I feel good now and touch woo, I hope everything goes alright this season.
"I think it's fantastic; we've got the new stadium here and we've got a new training ground. We've got players coming in and everything's chanign in a good way. All the lads are relishing the new season."
An on England - and the possibility of reuniting with former Hammers boss Sam Allardyce? "It'd be great, but I need to stay fit, score goals here and hopefully it'll come."
Carroll also welcomed the arrival of Andre Ayew and full back Arthur Masuaku, who are set to arrive at the club imminently.
"The squad's been a bit bare, we need some more players in," he added. "Slaven's bringing in more qualitiy players and that's what we need, to fight for places.
"Everyone's looking forward to it, we've got a lot of games coming up - including Europe - so bringing in as many quality players as we can is great for the squad."
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West Ham Utd 2-3 Juventus
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham succumbed to defeat in their final match of pre-season against Italian champions Juventus at the Olympic Stadium this afternoon.
Slaven Bilic's side went down 3-2 to a late Simone Zaza effort at the end of a lively encounter in front of a full house of 54,000 - despite having previously fought back from two goals behind after a slow start.
And key to West Ham's recovery was striker Andy Carroll, who looked in fine form as his two headers cancelled out first half goals for the visitors.
Juve opened the scoring on 18 minutes, no more than 30 seconds after Enner Valencia had beaten Gianluigi Buffon but not the woodwork. A quick counter attack resulted in Mario Mandzukic nodding a deep cross back towards Dybala, who finished with ease.
Still reeling from conceding that one, West Ham found themselves in double trouble less than three minutes later. This time the energetic Dybala fed Mandzukic with a low pass and the Croatian international fired home from inside the box.
There were no more goals prior to the half time interval but it took West Ham just five minutes to halve the deficit in the second half. Sam Byram, playing at left back again, centred for Carroll; his header was initially saved but bundled over the line by the striker, following up.
Just as Juve scored two quick goals in the first period, Caroll repeated the feat when he made it 2-2 on 52 minutes. Mark Noble's free kick was firmly planted in the back of the net by the #9, who rose above three defenders to get to the ball first.
But the visitors were to have the last word with just eight minutes remaining. Simone Zaza, who was left a bit of a laughing stock after his missed penalty in Euro 16 latched on to a long through ball to fire beyond Adrian and win the Betway Cup for Juventus.
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West Ham 2-3 Juventus: Andy Carroll double in vain as Hammers beaten
By Pete Hall
Last Updated: 07/08/16 4:56pm
SSN
Andy Carroll netted a double in vain as West Ham were beaten 3-2 by Serie A champions Juventus in a game to mark the official opening of the London Stadium.
A quickfire double from Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic put the visitors in control in the East End sunshine, with the Hammers far inferior to their illustrious opponents.
Carroll soon got the hosts back in it on a sun-drenched day at their new home, bundling the ball into the net in typically combative style, before heading an equaliser in the second half.
Hammers fans will have been pleased to see Dimitri Payet get his first minutes of pre-season, while record signing Gonzalo Higuain made his Juventus bow as a substitute, but it was another replacement in Simone Zaza who won it late on for the Old Lady.
West Ham in fact played a first competitive game at their new home when they beat Domzale in a Europa League qualifier last week but this was set to be the big curtain-raiser for a new era and supporters were treated to a carnival atmosphere.
That mood was dampened slightly, as a strong-looking Juventus team took charge early on, racing into a two-goal lead.
Moments after Enner Valencia saw his effort come back off the woodwork, a superb knockdown from Mandzukic picked out the run of Dybala, who took a touch and finished with his left foot in impressive manner after 18 minutes.
Before the supporters had re-taken their seats, the Serie A champions were two goals to the good, with the same combination linking up to devastating effect. This time Dybala returned the favour, slipping the ball in for Mandzukic for slot home.
With the visitors looking in fine fettle, Carroll took it upon himself to get his side back in it, getting on the end of a Sam Byram cross in the 34th minute, reacting quickest as his header was saved by Gianluigi Buffon to bundle the ball home.
The Hammers lived dangerously as a goalmouth scramble somehow didn't result in a Juve third, the crossbar and a Carroll goal-line clearance coming to the rescue.
After the break, Carroll continued to be a menace as Higuain laboured after coming off the bench down the other end, and the combative hitman soon found a leveller, this time attacking a Mark Noble free-kick, and powering a header into the bottom corner.
A raft of changes disrupted the flow of the game, but Payet's introduction got the crowd off their feet once more.
However, as we seemed to be heading for a penalty shoot-out, Zaza netted the winner out of nowhere. The Italy international brought the ball down superbly out of the air, stole a march of Reece Oxford and finished clinically with his left foot.
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West Ham agree Andre Ayew fee but must wait for Swansea to sign Borja Baston - Sky sources
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 06/08/16 11:27am
SSN
West Ham have reached a £20m agreement with Swansea to sign Andre Ayew, but must wait for the Welsh club to sign Borja Baston, according to Sky sources.
It is understood that 26-year-old Ghana international Ayew will have a medical with the Hammers this weekend. Swansea confirmed the signing of experienced forward Fernando Llorente on Friday, but Sky Sports News HQ understands they will only sanction Ayew's departure when they sign another striker. And it is understood that striker is Atletico Madrid's Baston, who spent last season on loan at Eibar, with the Swans in talks to bring him to the Liberty Stadium. The 23-year-old has been on loan at a string of Spanish clubs including Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza, for whom he scored 23 in 39 games.
The former Spain U19 international starred as Eibar finished 14th last season, scoring 18 goals in 36 La Liga appearances. Ayew, meanwhile, only joined Swansea from Marseille last summer and was the subject of a £20m bid from West Ham last week, Sky sources reported. Ayew, brother of Aston Villa striker Jordan, scored 12 goals in 35 appearances for the Swansea.
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West Ham 2-3 Juventus: Andy Carroll sends England boss Sam Allardyce reminder with brace in loss
15:57, 7 AUG 2016 UPDATED 17:18, 7 AUG 2016
BY HECTOR NUNNS
The Hammers striker grabbed a double as Juventus spoiled the London Stadium opening party with a late winner from Simone Zaza
The Mirror
Andy Carroll handed an England reminder to new manager and former West Ham boss Sam Allardyce with a double against Italian champions Juventus.
The official opening of the London Stadium looked to be falling flat after Juventus twice sliced West Ham apart in the opening 21 minutes.
And manager Slaven Bilic will have been concerned at the ease with which Juventus scored those two – and again late on through Hammers target Simone Zaza.
Carroll though, left out for Euro 2016 but signed both on loan and permanently by Allardyce for the Hammers, opened his account at the club's new home.
One header before half-time was tipped on to the post by Gianluigi Buffon before Carroll bundled in the rebound. And shortly after the break a towering effort left the net bulging.
But confidence ahead of the Premier League opener at Chelsea a week on Monday will have been tempered by the defending on show.
A Juventus official confirmed here that Paul Pogba had been given permission for a medical at Manchester United ahead of his proposed £110 million world-record move.
Meanwhile at a mere £75m the world's current third-costliest player, Gonzalo Higuain, had to be content with a place on the bench for Juventus.
The thunder of the official opening of West Ham's London Stadium had rather been stolen on Thursday with the emphatic Europa League victory over Domzale.
But in the last and prestigious pre-season game for Slaven Bilic's team there was still time for some nostalgia.
The south stand was christened the Sir Trevor Brooking stand, with the former England midfielder and Hammers royalty milking the generous applause.
And that was followed by an even bigger cheer as the north stand was named in honour of the late Bobby Moore, another West Ham legend and England's 1966 World Cup winning captain.
Then came 'Bubbles' and the fireworks - and after 12 minutes the first effort in anger, a header from Juve's Mario Mandzukic that was easily saved by Adrian.
But the Hammers went closer after 17 minutes, as Enner Valencia hit the post after good work from young Irish midfielder Josh Cullen.
However Juventus went straight down the other end 36 seconds later and opened the scoring after 18 minutes.
Mandzukic, linked with West Ham all summer, nodded the ball down and the onrushing Argentinian Paulo Dybala fired home left-footed.
And within three minutes the favour had been returned, Dybala rolling the ball across the area from the right for the Croatian striker to score easily.
West Ham were reeling but got back into it after 34 minutes, as Andy Carroll followed in an initial header tipped on to the post by Gianluigi Buffon from Byram's cross.
And the West Ham goal led a charmed life after 39 minutes as first Adrian and Carroll on the line denied Alex Sandro before Medhi Benatia hit the bar from four yards.
Both of West Ham's centre-backs after a shaky 45 minutes were taken off, with Reece Oxford and James Collins coming on.
But Carroll was at it again after 48 minutes, producing a towering header from Mark Noble's right-wing free-kick.
A welter of second-half substitutes saw the pace drop in the second half, but sub Hernanes hit the bar with a free-kick after 82 minutes for Juventus.
And with time running out Zaza ran clear, and finished coolly after controlling the ball superbly.
Teams
West Ham (4-2-3-1): Adrian; Antonio (Payet 74th), Reid (Collins 46th), Ogbonna (Oxford 46th), Byram; Nordtveit, Cullen (Browne 83rd); Feghouli (Burke 46th), Noble (Quina 59th), Valencia (Samuelsen 74th); Carroll (Fletcher 55th).
Goals: Carroll 34, 48.
Juventus (4-3-1-2): Buffon (Neto 46th); Dani Alves (Untersee 59th), Benatia (Barzagli 59th), Rugani (Chiellini 59), Alex Sandro (Kastanos 87th); Lemina (Marrone 79th), Pjanic (Macek 79th), Asamoah (Hernanes 69th); Pereyra (Zaza 69th); Dybala (Pjaca 59th), Mandzukic (Higuain 46th).
Goals: Dybala 18, Mandzukic 21, Zaza 85.
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Andre Ayew and Arthur Masuaku edge closer to Hammers move as Slaven Bilic admits 'it's only a matter of paperwork'
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Sunday, August 7, 2016
West Ham are close to completing the signings of Swansea striker Andre Ayew and Olympiacos left-back Arthur Masuaku.
Manager Slaven Bilic revealed the Hammers are on the brink of sealing two new arrivals ahead of the Premier League kick-off next weekend.
And it is understood Ayew is on the brink of completing his switch - for a fee reported to be £20million - while Masuaku has also agreed a £1million move to east London.
"We are quite close to getting two new players," said Bilic after West Ham's 3-2 friendly defeat by Juventus.
"I hoped it would be yesterday and they would play a part today but the paperwork was not done. It's only a matter of paperwork and then we will have two new players at West Ham."
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Daily WHUFC News - 7th August 2016
Preview - Juventus
WHUFC.com
Hammers to officially open London Stadium against Italian champions
Former Juve player Angelo Ogbonna could come up against old club
Hammers play second game at new home in four days
When and where?
West Ham United v Juventus
Betway Cup
London Stadium
Sunday 7 August 2016, 1pm
What's the story?
The Hammers officially start life at London Stadium on Sunday when they welcome one of the world's most successful clubs to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Juventus have won the last five Italian titles - picking up domestic doubles in the last two seasons - and possess a squad packed full of stars.
They provide fitting opposition, therefore, for the Hammers' big bow at their new home, with another 54,000 crowd expected to pack the stands.
West Ham's final game before the Premier League season gets underway comes after a summer in which they have already begun their competitive fixtures.
Slaven Bilic's side saw off NK Domzale over two legs in the UEFA Europa League, with Thursday's 3-0 win their second success by that scoreline over the last month.
Juventus' domestic season gets underway on 20 August, and they have recently returned from featuring in International Champions Cup matches in Australia and Hong Kong, where they drew with Melbourne Victory and defeated Tottenham Hotspur and South China.
Sunday's game will also feature an Opening Ceremony for the new ground, so be in your seats early to soak up the atmosphere!
Team news
Slaven Bilic will still be without Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini, who both have knee injuries, while Gokhan Tore has also spent a spell on the sidelines.
Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins could both feature with over a week of training under their belts now.
Dimitri Payet returned to Rush Green on Saturday, so the visit of Juventus comes around too soon for the Frenchman
Any links between the two?
Angelo Ogbonna gives the current link between the sides, having signed for the Hammers from the Old Lady a summer ago.
Four other men have featured for both teams - Paolo Di Canio, Liam Brady, Marco Borriello and Antonio Nocerino.
How do I get to the game?
The match will be West Ham's second at London Stadium - click here for directions.
Where can I watch the game?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on BT Sport 2, while whufc.com will carry its usual live match coverage.
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
It has been a memorable 24 hours for the West Ham United following the historic first game to be played at the new Stadium and the convincing victory in the Europa League which saw the Hammers qualify for the play-off round.
There looks to be more good news for Slaven Bilic as my sources have told me that the Club are set to make a substantial signing within the next 72 hours.
The Club have been linked with a number of top forwards throughout the summer and they now look set to finally land one of their targets.
Reports in the media have also suggested that the Club were close to securing a loan move for Inter Milan defender Davide Santon.
But it is my understanding that the move has fallen through and the Club are now looking at other targets.
With Aaron Cresswell ruled out for three to four months, the Club were not prepared to take any risks over signing another left back and hope for more news on another defender in the next few days.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
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Ogbonna ready for Juve reunion
WHUFC.com
Ogbonna set to face Juventus for the first time since leaving last summer
The Italy international made 41 Serie A appearances for Juventus
Ogbonna set to feature in his first pre-season game
Angelo Ogbonna is relishing the chance to line up against his former club Juventus for the first time in the Betway Cup on Sunday and hopes to mark the official opening ceremony with another impressive victory.
Ogbonna enjoyed a memorable two-year spell with the Italian giants and will never forget his time playing for one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
Having played alongside a number of his former team-mates for Italy at the Euro Finals during the summer, the 28-year-old will now get the chance to meet up with them once again at the new Stadium on Sunday.
But despite his close relationships with the Juventus players and staff, Ogbonna knows there is still a job to do on the pitch and knows the importance of securing a victory in their final pre-season game before the new Premier League campaign gets underway.
Ogbonna said: "I think it is very important for the team to officially open the stadium against a team like Juventus who have big players and a big mentality.
"I am very excited about facing them because I only left them a year ago to join West Ham United.
"I have a lot of happy memories from my time at Juventus and playing in Italy.
"I grew up there, learned all my tactics and grew into the player that I have become today. I have to say a big thank you to the clubs I played for in Italy.
"But now everything has changed and I am happy now to be in England and I want to improve myself even more at West Ham United.
"We know it will be an extremely hard game and both teams will want to win ahead of the new season. We cannot think about all the good players they have and need to focus on what we can do."
As well as facing well known faces such as Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, Ogbonna is also interested to see how new signing Gonzalo Higuain will settle into his new surroundings.
The Argentine forward became the world's third most expensive player when he joined the club from Napoli for £75.3million last week.
Ogbonna has no doubts he could be the key in helping Juventus to challenge the big guns in the Champions League once again and also feels the arrival of Miralem Pjanic could also be another big addition to the squad.
Ogbonna added: "I think they have made a really good signing getting Higuain because they are still improving.
"It is not just the strikers they have brought in, but Pjanic is also a very good signing and I think it will be very important for them to have these good players when they are playing in the Champions League."
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Randolph ready for familiar foes
WHUFC.com
Darren Randolph helped Hammers to defeat NK Domzale in London Stadium opener
Irish stopper ready for the visit of Juventus to Stratford on Sunday
Goalkeeper faced many of Juve's stars at Euro 2016 just a few weeks ago
Darren Randolph will not need much introduction to many of the Juventus players he comes face-to-face with on Sunday afternoon.
The West Ham United goalkeeper lined up against no fewer than four Juve stars in Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Stefano Sturaro, Simone Zaza - and Hammers teammate Angelo Ogbonna - when Republic of Ireland upset Italy at Euro 2016 on 22 June.
Four days later, Randolph was back between the sticks as the Boys in Green came up just short against a France side including the Serie A champions' Patrice Evra and Paul Pogba, as well as West Ham's Dimitri Payet.
"We're playing against some of the players I came up against just a couple of months ago!" he confirmed. "It's a team full of top European players and it's a big game and another great occasion for us in front of another packed house.
"I don't know if I'll be playing, as I was concentrating on Thursday's game and just getting through [against NK Domzale], but we were back in training on Friday and will start looking forward to it," he said.
"I think everyone looks forward to these last friendly matches when you play against the bigger teams. It's why everyone wants to play football, to play in these games against top players continuing on from the summer."
Reflecting on Thursday's victory over NK Domzale, Randolph was delighted to play his part as West Ham overcame a potential banana skin to defeat the Slovenians.
The 4-2 aggregate success took the Hammers through to a UEFA Europa League Play-off round clash with Astra Giurgiu - the Romanian side which knocked Randolph and the Hammers out of the same competition a year ago.
"It was the perfect start with three goals and a win and a clean sheet - you can't ask for much more than that from the first game at the new Stadium," Randolph said. "We knew we'd have to keep tight defensively to be in with a chance and we did that.
"Two-nil is a dangerous scoreline as if they had scored it would have been level in the tie and we might have got nervy. As it was, we had a lot of chances and it could have been five or six in the end."
It has been a good week for the 29-year-old, who signed a new long-term contract with the Club on Sunday before kicking-off the new campaign with a flawless display against Domzale.
For Randolph, the future is bright for everyone in Claret and Blue.
"If you want to look to push forward as a Club, then you have to move stadiums or make your stadium bigger and I think, with how we performed and where we finished last year with the players we have managed to get in, we want to be playing in front of big crowds in big stadiums," he concluded. "That will lure more big names to the Club and that can only be a positive.
"Part of the reason why I wanted to stay is because we have a good group of lads and are moving into a new Stadium and a new training ground and it's exciting.
"If we continue to perform like we did last year, who knows? Another finish near the top of the table finish and European football is what everybody wants."
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Pixie Lott leads celeb support
WHUFC.com
Pixie Lott was just one of the many celebrity West Ham fans who showed their support for the Hammers this week following their first game in the new Stadium.
As the star of West End show Breakfast at Tiffany's, Lott could not attend the Club's first game in their new Stadium, though she proudly donned the Claret and Blue in support for the Hammers.
Actor and West Ham fan Danny Dyer was delighted with the first ever match at London Stadium.
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Young defender delighted with summer experience
WHUFC.com
Academy defender Declan Rice says it was an amazing experience to be part of the senior squad's pre-season tours
The youngster travelled to the USA and Austria with Slaven Bilic's side
He returned to take his place in the Dev Squad on Friday against Chelsea
Young Hammer Declan Rice said it was an amazing experience to be around the first team this pre-season in both the USA and Austria.
The centre-back, who was in action for the Dev Squad on Friday against Chelsea, played a number of times for Slaven Bilic's side as they prepared for the 2016/17 season.
And Rice, who was awarded the prestigious Dylan Tombides Award for his season in the Academy last campaign, explained it has helped him improve as a player.
He said: "It was an amazing experience going on the pre-season tours with the first team and it has definitely helped with my progression as a defender.
"Just being around those sort of players for a month - Nobes, Reidy and Carroll - you learn plenty of things. They are top players and they really talked to you and helped you.
"The manager as well as his backroom staff were also great, giving you plenty of pointers to become a better player.
"You also have to be yourself with them. You can't go into a shell, you have to act like you usually would. That's how you talk to them and you become your own person."
Back in Academy action on Friday after the period spent with the senior squad, Rice could not help the Hammers to a victory over Chelsea as they were beaten 3-0.
However, at this stage of the season, the youngster insisted the result is not the most important thing.
"It is all about building fitness still for us at the moment, definitely," he continued. "We have Stoke City next weekend so we need to build towards that.
"That was my first 90 minutes of pre-season, as I've been away with the first team where I got two 75s, a 30 and a 45, so it was good to get 90 minutes today, it was just a shame about the result.
"I think the scoreline flattered Chelsea a bit. In the first half, we had a number of chances as well as penalty shout, but it wasn't to be. It's encouraging that we are creating chances, though. That's the important thing.
"We have to learn to convert them though. If you don't do that you won't win games, so we need to improve in front of goal."
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Westley - Pre-season has been a challenge
WHUFC.com
Dev Squad manager Terry Westley said his side have been really challenged this pre-season
The side were beaten 3-0 by Chelsea on Friday in their final summer game
They take on Stoke City next Saturday in their first Premier League 2 fixture
The Hammers' Development Squad have endured an incredibly challenging pre-season campaign, according to Academy boss Terry Westley.
The U23s - in Premier League 2 Division 2 next season - faced a Chelsea side on Friday who play in the tier above them in a final friendly fixture, and were beaten 3-0.
But Westley insisted it was a positive test for his players and explained just how helpful pre-season has been for his youngsters.
He said: "I think if you go right across all of our pre-season games, we've played men, we've played Football League teams, non-league sides, foreign sides and then finally a top, top academy side. There have been some real different challenges.
"Chelsea were a high-quality, technical team who moved the ball around the pitch and were physically very good. It has certainly been a very challenging pre-season. There have been some high points, and today helped in terms of a reality check.
"If you want to get in Slaven's group, you need to be reliable and think about things you need to improve on. We had some really good opportunities today, but nothing happened.
"We made some wrong decisions. We turned the ball over a bit too quickly and they were good enough to punish us."
Many of the squad have ambitions of going on loan, playing regularly for the Dev Squad and even making an impression in the Club's first team this season.
And Westley believes his players are realising what it takes to step up and catch the eye of the Hammers' Croatian boss.
"Against Domzale, we had a player from this age group, who is 17, playing in front of 54,000 people in Reece Oxford," Westley continued. "You might think you're there, but talking about it and actually doing it are two different things.
"We have talked about going on loan; these players want to be able to go on loan, but there are also scouts and managers here watching the Chelsea youngsters.
"At our level, you have to be as good as Venlo and Peterborough and Southend and compete against Chelsea.
"All round against Chelsea, it was a good test. Next week we start, and we prepare for the Stoke City game, and we're all looking forward to that."
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Andre Ayew: West Ham agree £20m fee with Swansea City
By Owen Rawlings
BBC Wales Sport
West Ham United have agreed a fee of about £20m to sign Ghana striker Andre Ayew from Swansea City. The 26-year-old was the Swans' top scorer with 12 last season after signing on a free transfer from Marseille in 2015. Ayew is now discussing personal terms with the Hammers. Swansea hope to complete the signing of Atletico Madrid striker Borja Baston to add to the arrival of Spain forward Fernando Llorente from Sevilla. The Welsh club have also enquired about Leicester City's Argentine striker Leonardo Ulloa. Forwards Alberto Paloschi, Eder and Bafetimbi Gomis have already left Swansea this summer. Manager Francesco Guidolin admitted in July he was unsure about Ayew's future, but hoped he would stay. Ayew did not score between 2 February and 1 May which coincided with a run of two wins in 10 matches, but finished the season with four goals in three matches as Swansea finished in 12th place. West Ham have signed striker Ashley Fletcher, midfielder Havard Nordtveit, and wingers Sofiane Feghouli and Gokhan Tore this summer.
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West Ham agree Andre Ayew fee but must wait for Swansea to sign Borja Baston - Sky sources
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 06/08/16 11:27am
SSN
West Ham have reached a £20m agreement with Swansea to sign Andre Ayew, but must wait for the Welsh club to sign Borja Baston, according to Sky sources.
It is understood that 26-year-old Ghana international Ayew will have a medical with the Hammers this weekend. Swansea confirmed the signing of experienced forward Fernando Llorente on Friday, but Sky Sports News HQ understands they will only sanction Ayew's departure when they sign another striker. And it is understood that striker is Atletico Madrid's Baston, who spent last season on loan at Eibar, with the Swans in talks to bring him to the Liberty Stadium. he 23-year-old has been on loan at a string of Spanish clubs including Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza, for whom he scored 23 in 39 games. The former Spain U19 international starred as Eibar finished 14th last season, scoring 18 goals in 36 La Liga appearances. Ayew, meanwhile, only joined Swansea from Marseille last summer and was the subject of a £20m bid from West Ham last week, Sky sources reported. Ayew, brother of Aston Villa striker Jordan, scored 12 goals in 35 appearances for the Swansea. West Ham agree Andre Ayew fee but must wait for Swansea to sign West Ham have reached a £20m agreement with Swansea to sign Andre Ayew, but must wait for the Welsh club to sign Borja Baston, according to Sky sources. It is understood that 26-year-old Ghana international Ayew will have a medical with the Hammers this weekend. Swansea confirmed the signing of experienced forward Fernando Llorente on Friday, but Sky Sports News HQ understands they will only sanction Ayew's departure when they sign another striker. And it is understood that striker is Atletico Madrid's Baston, who spent last season on loan at Eibar, with the Swans in talks to bring him to the Liberty Stadium. The 23-year-old has been on loan at a string of Spanish clubs including Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza, for whom he scored 23 in 39 games. The former Spain U19 international starred as Eibar finished 14th last season, scoring 18 goals in 36 La Liga appearances. Ayew, meanwhile, only joined Swansea from Marseille last summer and was the subject of a £20m bid from West Ham last week, Sky sources reported. Ayew, brother of Aston Villa striker Jordan, scored 12 goals in 35 appearances for the Swansea.
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Davide Santon fails medical ahead of West Ham move - Sky sources
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 05/08/16 8:27pm
SSN
West Ham have scrapped a loan move for Davide Santon after the Inter Milan defender failed the second part of a medical, according to Sky sources. Santon travelled to England earlier this week to undergo a medical after the Hammers had agreed to pay £460,000 to take him on loan for the season, with the option of making the move permanent next summer for £5m. However, Sky sources understand West Ham have now ended their interest in the 25-year-old after he failed to pass a medical ahead of a move to London Stadium. West Ham are looking for cover at left-back after first-choice Aaron Cresswell was ruled out for up to four months in July after suffering a knee ligament injury. Sky sources understand West Ham have had bids for Norwich's Martin Olsson and Hull's Andrew Robertson turned down. West Ham also have a £20m bid on the table for Swansea forward Andre Ayew, according to Sky sources.
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West Ham want Europa League revenge after Astra Giurgiu draw as Mark Noble warns about new stadium
22:30, 5 AUG 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The Hammers are on a European revenge mission after being drawn against Romanian side Astra, and skipper Mark Noble says they're a scalp in their new home
The Mirror
West Ham want Europa League revenge on the Romanian side which knocked them out at the same stage last year. But Slaven Bilic's side face a hectic start to the new season as they visit Astra Giurgiu in the playoff round just three days after playing Chelsea. Astra, who were knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers by Copenhagen, beat the Hammers 4-3 on aggregate last season after drawing 2-2 in the last European match at Upton Park. West Ham start their Premier League match on Monday 15 August at Stamford Bridge with the first leg in Romania on August 18 and the the return at their new London Stadium on 25 August.
The Hammers beat Slovenian side NK Domzale 3-0 in their first match in their new home but captain Mark Noble has admitted opposition teams will be inspired by playing at the former Olympic stadium. "I think we will now be seen as a scalp - we have spoken about it," he said. You go to the Emirates, Old Trafford and the Etihad and they are great arenas to play in, you go there and think it is fantastic to play, and teams are going to come here and think that so we are going to have to be on the ball for the whole season."
Noble added his phone is "always on" after his former boss Sam Allardyce was appointed England manager. The Three Lions chief championed the midfielder for a call-up during his time at Upton Park and Noble said: "I thought he was a great manager and I loved him as a person and I think he is the right man for the job.
"I think he will do well, 100 per cent, his man-management qualities and what he expects from his teams, what he gets out of the players - I think he is the right man. " I haven't spoken to him since he got the job. We had a couple of texts at the end of last season when he kept Sunderland up and I had my testimonial.
"Sam sent me a nice message and I sent one at the end of last season just saying 'congrats on keeping them up and that you are going to have a good summer' - I didn't expect it to be quite this good but I suppose he has."
The UEFA Europa League Play-Off draw in full
Astana v BATE, FC Midtjylland v Osmanlispor, AS Trencin v Rapid Vienna, Arouca v Olympiacos, Lokomotiva Zagreb v Genk, Vojvodina v AZ, Dinamo Tbilisi v PAOK Salonika, AEK v Liberec, FK Austria Vienna v Rosenborg, Beitar Jerusalem v St Etienne, AA Gent v Shkendija, Istanbul Basaksehir v Shakhtar Donetsk, FC Astra Giurgiu v West Ham, Sonderjyske v Sparta Prague, Fenerbahce v Grasshoppers, Sassuolo v Crvena Zvezda, Brondby v Panathinaikos, IFK Goteborg v FK Karabakh, Krasnodar v Partizani Tirana, Maccabi Tel-Aviv v Hajduk Split, Slavia Prague v Anderlecht, Maribor v Gabala
Ties to be played August 18 and 25.
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Manchester United fans WERE 'in frightening crush' outside West Ham ground when team bus was attacked
17:36, 6 AUG 2016 UPDATED 17:36, 6 AUG 2016
BY CHRIS SLATER , STEPHEN JONES
Lessons from the 'potential disaster' are set to have an affect on how police will handle Chelsea and Tottenham's final games at their current stadiums in coming years
The Mirror
Manchester United fans WERE caught up in a frightening crush outside the West Ham ground the night their team bus was attacked, according to a new report.
Mirror Online reported at the time how the final ever game at Upton Park in May descended into chaos as the coach carrying the United squad was pelted with bottles and other missiles as it arrived. Kick-off was delayed by 45 minutes as police attempted to restore order and the Reds players were safely escorted inside. But it has now also emerged many Red Devils' supporters were caught up in a crush as the coach was reversed onto the car park. The "potential disaster" has been highlighted in a report by a Manchester United fans' group released last week. And the incident is set to have a direct impact on police handling of Chelsea and Tottenham 's final games at their current stadiums in coming years. On the night of the game, West Ham's last at the Boelyn Ground before moving to the Olympic Stadium, large numbers of West Ham fans had gathered on Green Street and Barking Road close to the ground to soak up the atmosphere. However police reports state that as they "became more intoxicated" they began to block the road and the arrival of the Reds' bus "caused antagonism as it was reversing into a small space".
Four police officers were injured after becoming involved in a "stand-off" with fans as they attempted to clear a path for the coach, which saw five windows damaged. However its arrival also sparked a crush in which some of the around 2,000 United fans who had travelled, as well as Hammers supporters, were caught up with many having to climb into nearby gardens to escape. One Reds fan quoted in the report says: "The police lost control and the officers on the ground froze.
"I was right beside them and they had no clue what to do. "It really was very close to being a tragedy. "I really just do not want these people to brush over what could have been another disaster in this country. "Plenty of West Ham fans there would back that up. It was really going downhill fast."
An investigation was carried out by the Metropolitan Police which found more contingency planning was needed and road closures should have been put in place.
They have vowed to put extra measures in place when Chelsea and Tottenham play their final games at their current stadiums in the upcoming years. Dale Haslam, MUST committee member for away ticketing, safety and related issues, said: "After the game we heard about both United and West Ham fans being caught up in a crush and we were shocked at how serious the crush had become. MUST worked with West Ham and the Metropolitan Police after the game to find out what had gone wrong and why the United team bus was attacked. "It is constructive they have admitted things went wrong and will ensure lessons are learned so this is not repeated."
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Dimitri Payet returns to West Ham training ahead of Premier League opener against Chelsea
Dimitri Payet returns to West Ham a week before the Premier League
Payet will complete individual sessions and join the squad on Monday
The 29-year-old was afforded extra holiday after his Euro 2016 exerts
By PHIL COSTA FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 16:37, 6 August 2016 | UPDATED: 17:24, 6 August 2016
Dimitri Payet has reported back to West Ham training a week before their Premier League opener, after being awarded extra time off following his Euro 2016 exerts. The 29-year-old midfielder starred for France throughout the tournament but was left crestfallen as Didier Deschamps' men lost 1-0 to Portugal in the final last month. Payet is set to complete two individual sessions on Saturday and Sunday, before joining up with the rest of the squad on Monday as they prepare to take on Chelsea at Stamford bridge. Former West Ham defender Tony Gale has caused some controversy after revealing that he believes Manuel Lanzini, not Dimitri Payet, was key to the club's success last season. The Hammers enjoyed a strong first season under manager Slaven Bilic as they finished seventh and secured Europa League football. 'Lanzini is a special player,' he told Sky Sports. 'For me everyone was going on about Payet last season but Lanzini was the one that made it happen. He runs between the lines and he's so important for West Ham.' It now remains to be seen if the likes of Lanzini and Payet can shine again for Slaven Bilic's side next season. Second season syndrome is something that has affected a number of players in the Premier League and it would not be surprising if the Hammers duo suffered some sort of dip in form.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Hammers to officially open London Stadium against Italian champions
Former Juve player Angelo Ogbonna could come up against old club
Hammers play second game at new home in four days
When and where?
West Ham United v Juventus
Betway Cup
London Stadium
Sunday 7 August 2016, 1pm
What's the story?
The Hammers officially start life at London Stadium on Sunday when they welcome one of the world's most successful clubs to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Juventus have won the last five Italian titles - picking up domestic doubles in the last two seasons - and possess a squad packed full of stars.
They provide fitting opposition, therefore, for the Hammers' big bow at their new home, with another 54,000 crowd expected to pack the stands.
West Ham's final game before the Premier League season gets underway comes after a summer in which they have already begun their competitive fixtures.
Slaven Bilic's side saw off NK Domzale over two legs in the UEFA Europa League, with Thursday's 3-0 win their second success by that scoreline over the last month.
Juventus' domestic season gets underway on 20 August, and they have recently returned from featuring in International Champions Cup matches in Australia and Hong Kong, where they drew with Melbourne Victory and defeated Tottenham Hotspur and South China.
Sunday's game will also feature an Opening Ceremony for the new ground, so be in your seats early to soak up the atmosphere!
Team news
Slaven Bilic will still be without Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini, who both have knee injuries, while Gokhan Tore has also spent a spell on the sidelines.
Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins could both feature with over a week of training under their belts now.
Dimitri Payet returned to Rush Green on Saturday, so the visit of Juventus comes around too soon for the Frenchman
Any links between the two?
Angelo Ogbonna gives the current link between the sides, having signed for the Hammers from the Old Lady a summer ago.
Four other men have featured for both teams - Paolo Di Canio, Liam Brady, Marco Borriello and Antonio Nocerino.
How do I get to the game?
The match will be West Ham's second at London Stadium - click here for directions.
Where can I watch the game?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on BT Sport 2, while whufc.com will carry its usual live match coverage.
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
It has been a memorable 24 hours for the West Ham United following the historic first game to be played at the new Stadium and the convincing victory in the Europa League which saw the Hammers qualify for the play-off round.
There looks to be more good news for Slaven Bilic as my sources have told me that the Club are set to make a substantial signing within the next 72 hours.
The Club have been linked with a number of top forwards throughout the summer and they now look set to finally land one of their targets.
Reports in the media have also suggested that the Club were close to securing a loan move for Inter Milan defender Davide Santon.
But it is my understanding that the move has fallen through and the Club are now looking at other targets.
With Aaron Cresswell ruled out for three to four months, the Club were not prepared to take any risks over signing another left back and hope for more news on another defender in the next few days.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
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Ogbonna ready for Juve reunion
WHUFC.com
Ogbonna set to face Juventus for the first time since leaving last summer
The Italy international made 41 Serie A appearances for Juventus
Ogbonna set to feature in his first pre-season game
Angelo Ogbonna is relishing the chance to line up against his former club Juventus for the first time in the Betway Cup on Sunday and hopes to mark the official opening ceremony with another impressive victory.
Ogbonna enjoyed a memorable two-year spell with the Italian giants and will never forget his time playing for one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
Having played alongside a number of his former team-mates for Italy at the Euro Finals during the summer, the 28-year-old will now get the chance to meet up with them once again at the new Stadium on Sunday.
But despite his close relationships with the Juventus players and staff, Ogbonna knows there is still a job to do on the pitch and knows the importance of securing a victory in their final pre-season game before the new Premier League campaign gets underway.
Ogbonna said: "I think it is very important for the team to officially open the stadium against a team like Juventus who have big players and a big mentality.
"I am very excited about facing them because I only left them a year ago to join West Ham United.
"I have a lot of happy memories from my time at Juventus and playing in Italy.
"I grew up there, learned all my tactics and grew into the player that I have become today. I have to say a big thank you to the clubs I played for in Italy.
"But now everything has changed and I am happy now to be in England and I want to improve myself even more at West Ham United.
"We know it will be an extremely hard game and both teams will want to win ahead of the new season. We cannot think about all the good players they have and need to focus on what we can do."
As well as facing well known faces such as Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, Ogbonna is also interested to see how new signing Gonzalo Higuain will settle into his new surroundings.
The Argentine forward became the world's third most expensive player when he joined the club from Napoli for £75.3million last week.
Ogbonna has no doubts he could be the key in helping Juventus to challenge the big guns in the Champions League once again and also feels the arrival of Miralem Pjanic could also be another big addition to the squad.
Ogbonna added: "I think they have made a really good signing getting Higuain because they are still improving.
"It is not just the strikers they have brought in, but Pjanic is also a very good signing and I think it will be very important for them to have these good players when they are playing in the Champions League."
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Randolph ready for familiar foes
WHUFC.com
Darren Randolph helped Hammers to defeat NK Domzale in London Stadium opener
Irish stopper ready for the visit of Juventus to Stratford on Sunday
Goalkeeper faced many of Juve's stars at Euro 2016 just a few weeks ago
Darren Randolph will not need much introduction to many of the Juventus players he comes face-to-face with on Sunday afternoon.
The West Ham United goalkeeper lined up against no fewer than four Juve stars in Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Stefano Sturaro, Simone Zaza - and Hammers teammate Angelo Ogbonna - when Republic of Ireland upset Italy at Euro 2016 on 22 June.
Four days later, Randolph was back between the sticks as the Boys in Green came up just short against a France side including the Serie A champions' Patrice Evra and Paul Pogba, as well as West Ham's Dimitri Payet.
"We're playing against some of the players I came up against just a couple of months ago!" he confirmed. "It's a team full of top European players and it's a big game and another great occasion for us in front of another packed house.
"I don't know if I'll be playing, as I was concentrating on Thursday's game and just getting through [against NK Domzale], but we were back in training on Friday and will start looking forward to it," he said.
"I think everyone looks forward to these last friendly matches when you play against the bigger teams. It's why everyone wants to play football, to play in these games against top players continuing on from the summer."
Reflecting on Thursday's victory over NK Domzale, Randolph was delighted to play his part as West Ham overcame a potential banana skin to defeat the Slovenians.
The 4-2 aggregate success took the Hammers through to a UEFA Europa League Play-off round clash with Astra Giurgiu - the Romanian side which knocked Randolph and the Hammers out of the same competition a year ago.
"It was the perfect start with three goals and a win and a clean sheet - you can't ask for much more than that from the first game at the new Stadium," Randolph said. "We knew we'd have to keep tight defensively to be in with a chance and we did that.
"Two-nil is a dangerous scoreline as if they had scored it would have been level in the tie and we might have got nervy. As it was, we had a lot of chances and it could have been five or six in the end."
It has been a good week for the 29-year-old, who signed a new long-term contract with the Club on Sunday before kicking-off the new campaign with a flawless display against Domzale.
For Randolph, the future is bright for everyone in Claret and Blue.
"If you want to look to push forward as a Club, then you have to move stadiums or make your stadium bigger and I think, with how we performed and where we finished last year with the players we have managed to get in, we want to be playing in front of big crowds in big stadiums," he concluded. "That will lure more big names to the Club and that can only be a positive.
"Part of the reason why I wanted to stay is because we have a good group of lads and are moving into a new Stadium and a new training ground and it's exciting.
"If we continue to perform like we did last year, who knows? Another finish near the top of the table finish and European football is what everybody wants."
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Pixie Lott leads celeb support
WHUFC.com
Pixie Lott was just one of the many celebrity West Ham fans who showed their support for the Hammers this week following their first game in the new Stadium.
As the star of West End show Breakfast at Tiffany's, Lott could not attend the Club's first game in their new Stadium, though she proudly donned the Claret and Blue in support for the Hammers.
Actor and West Ham fan Danny Dyer was delighted with the first ever match at London Stadium.
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Young defender delighted with summer experience
WHUFC.com
Academy defender Declan Rice says it was an amazing experience to be part of the senior squad's pre-season tours
The youngster travelled to the USA and Austria with Slaven Bilic's side
He returned to take his place in the Dev Squad on Friday against Chelsea
Young Hammer Declan Rice said it was an amazing experience to be around the first team this pre-season in both the USA and Austria.
The centre-back, who was in action for the Dev Squad on Friday against Chelsea, played a number of times for Slaven Bilic's side as they prepared for the 2016/17 season.
And Rice, who was awarded the prestigious Dylan Tombides Award for his season in the Academy last campaign, explained it has helped him improve as a player.
He said: "It was an amazing experience going on the pre-season tours with the first team and it has definitely helped with my progression as a defender.
"Just being around those sort of players for a month - Nobes, Reidy and Carroll - you learn plenty of things. They are top players and they really talked to you and helped you.
"The manager as well as his backroom staff were also great, giving you plenty of pointers to become a better player.
"You also have to be yourself with them. You can't go into a shell, you have to act like you usually would. That's how you talk to them and you become your own person."
Back in Academy action on Friday after the period spent with the senior squad, Rice could not help the Hammers to a victory over Chelsea as they were beaten 3-0.
However, at this stage of the season, the youngster insisted the result is not the most important thing.
"It is all about building fitness still for us at the moment, definitely," he continued. "We have Stoke City next weekend so we need to build towards that.
"That was my first 90 minutes of pre-season, as I've been away with the first team where I got two 75s, a 30 and a 45, so it was good to get 90 minutes today, it was just a shame about the result.
"I think the scoreline flattered Chelsea a bit. In the first half, we had a number of chances as well as penalty shout, but it wasn't to be. It's encouraging that we are creating chances, though. That's the important thing.
"We have to learn to convert them though. If you don't do that you won't win games, so we need to improve in front of goal."
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Westley - Pre-season has been a challenge
WHUFC.com
Dev Squad manager Terry Westley said his side have been really challenged this pre-season
The side were beaten 3-0 by Chelsea on Friday in their final summer game
They take on Stoke City next Saturday in their first Premier League 2 fixture
The Hammers' Development Squad have endured an incredibly challenging pre-season campaign, according to Academy boss Terry Westley.
The U23s - in Premier League 2 Division 2 next season - faced a Chelsea side on Friday who play in the tier above them in a final friendly fixture, and were beaten 3-0.
But Westley insisted it was a positive test for his players and explained just how helpful pre-season has been for his youngsters.
He said: "I think if you go right across all of our pre-season games, we've played men, we've played Football League teams, non-league sides, foreign sides and then finally a top, top academy side. There have been some real different challenges.
"Chelsea were a high-quality, technical team who moved the ball around the pitch and were physically very good. It has certainly been a very challenging pre-season. There have been some high points, and today helped in terms of a reality check.
"If you want to get in Slaven's group, you need to be reliable and think about things you need to improve on. We had some really good opportunities today, but nothing happened.
"We made some wrong decisions. We turned the ball over a bit too quickly and they were good enough to punish us."
Many of the squad have ambitions of going on loan, playing regularly for the Dev Squad and even making an impression in the Club's first team this season.
And Westley believes his players are realising what it takes to step up and catch the eye of the Hammers' Croatian boss.
"Against Domzale, we had a player from this age group, who is 17, playing in front of 54,000 people in Reece Oxford," Westley continued. "You might think you're there, but talking about it and actually doing it are two different things.
"We have talked about going on loan; these players want to be able to go on loan, but there are also scouts and managers here watching the Chelsea youngsters.
"At our level, you have to be as good as Venlo and Peterborough and Southend and compete against Chelsea.
"All round against Chelsea, it was a good test. Next week we start, and we prepare for the Stoke City game, and we're all looking forward to that."
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Andre Ayew: West Ham agree £20m fee with Swansea City
By Owen Rawlings
BBC Wales Sport
West Ham United have agreed a fee of about £20m to sign Ghana striker Andre Ayew from Swansea City. The 26-year-old was the Swans' top scorer with 12 last season after signing on a free transfer from Marseille in 2015. Ayew is now discussing personal terms with the Hammers. Swansea hope to complete the signing of Atletico Madrid striker Borja Baston to add to the arrival of Spain forward Fernando Llorente from Sevilla. The Welsh club have also enquired about Leicester City's Argentine striker Leonardo Ulloa. Forwards Alberto Paloschi, Eder and Bafetimbi Gomis have already left Swansea this summer. Manager Francesco Guidolin admitted in July he was unsure about Ayew's future, but hoped he would stay. Ayew did not score between 2 February and 1 May which coincided with a run of two wins in 10 matches, but finished the season with four goals in three matches as Swansea finished in 12th place. West Ham have signed striker Ashley Fletcher, midfielder Havard Nordtveit, and wingers Sofiane Feghouli and Gokhan Tore this summer.
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West Ham agree Andre Ayew fee but must wait for Swansea to sign Borja Baston - Sky sources
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 06/08/16 11:27am
SSN
West Ham have reached a £20m agreement with Swansea to sign Andre Ayew, but must wait for the Welsh club to sign Borja Baston, according to Sky sources.
It is understood that 26-year-old Ghana international Ayew will have a medical with the Hammers this weekend. Swansea confirmed the signing of experienced forward Fernando Llorente on Friday, but Sky Sports News HQ understands they will only sanction Ayew's departure when they sign another striker. And it is understood that striker is Atletico Madrid's Baston, who spent last season on loan at Eibar, with the Swans in talks to bring him to the Liberty Stadium. he 23-year-old has been on loan at a string of Spanish clubs including Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza, for whom he scored 23 in 39 games. The former Spain U19 international starred as Eibar finished 14th last season, scoring 18 goals in 36 La Liga appearances. Ayew, meanwhile, only joined Swansea from Marseille last summer and was the subject of a £20m bid from West Ham last week, Sky sources reported. Ayew, brother of Aston Villa striker Jordan, scored 12 goals in 35 appearances for the Swansea. West Ham agree Andre Ayew fee but must wait for Swansea to sign West Ham have reached a £20m agreement with Swansea to sign Andre Ayew, but must wait for the Welsh club to sign Borja Baston, according to Sky sources. It is understood that 26-year-old Ghana international Ayew will have a medical with the Hammers this weekend. Swansea confirmed the signing of experienced forward Fernando Llorente on Friday, but Sky Sports News HQ understands they will only sanction Ayew's departure when they sign another striker. And it is understood that striker is Atletico Madrid's Baston, who spent last season on loan at Eibar, with the Swans in talks to bring him to the Liberty Stadium. The 23-year-old has been on loan at a string of Spanish clubs including Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza, for whom he scored 23 in 39 games. The former Spain U19 international starred as Eibar finished 14th last season, scoring 18 goals in 36 La Liga appearances. Ayew, meanwhile, only joined Swansea from Marseille last summer and was the subject of a £20m bid from West Ham last week, Sky sources reported. Ayew, brother of Aston Villa striker Jordan, scored 12 goals in 35 appearances for the Swansea.
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Davide Santon fails medical ahead of West Ham move - Sky sources
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 05/08/16 8:27pm
SSN
West Ham have scrapped a loan move for Davide Santon after the Inter Milan defender failed the second part of a medical, according to Sky sources. Santon travelled to England earlier this week to undergo a medical after the Hammers had agreed to pay £460,000 to take him on loan for the season, with the option of making the move permanent next summer for £5m. However, Sky sources understand West Ham have now ended their interest in the 25-year-old after he failed to pass a medical ahead of a move to London Stadium. West Ham are looking for cover at left-back after first-choice Aaron Cresswell was ruled out for up to four months in July after suffering a knee ligament injury. Sky sources understand West Ham have had bids for Norwich's Martin Olsson and Hull's Andrew Robertson turned down. West Ham also have a £20m bid on the table for Swansea forward Andre Ayew, according to Sky sources.
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West Ham want Europa League revenge after Astra Giurgiu draw as Mark Noble warns about new stadium
22:30, 5 AUG 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The Hammers are on a European revenge mission after being drawn against Romanian side Astra, and skipper Mark Noble says they're a scalp in their new home
The Mirror
West Ham want Europa League revenge on the Romanian side which knocked them out at the same stage last year. But Slaven Bilic's side face a hectic start to the new season as they visit Astra Giurgiu in the playoff round just three days after playing Chelsea. Astra, who were knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers by Copenhagen, beat the Hammers 4-3 on aggregate last season after drawing 2-2 in the last European match at Upton Park. West Ham start their Premier League match on Monday 15 August at Stamford Bridge with the first leg in Romania on August 18 and the the return at their new London Stadium on 25 August.
The Hammers beat Slovenian side NK Domzale 3-0 in their first match in their new home but captain Mark Noble has admitted opposition teams will be inspired by playing at the former Olympic stadium. "I think we will now be seen as a scalp - we have spoken about it," he said. You go to the Emirates, Old Trafford and the Etihad and they are great arenas to play in, you go there and think it is fantastic to play, and teams are going to come here and think that so we are going to have to be on the ball for the whole season."
Noble added his phone is "always on" after his former boss Sam Allardyce was appointed England manager. The Three Lions chief championed the midfielder for a call-up during his time at Upton Park and Noble said: "I thought he was a great manager and I loved him as a person and I think he is the right man for the job.
"I think he will do well, 100 per cent, his man-management qualities and what he expects from his teams, what he gets out of the players - I think he is the right man. " I haven't spoken to him since he got the job. We had a couple of texts at the end of last season when he kept Sunderland up and I had my testimonial.
"Sam sent me a nice message and I sent one at the end of last season just saying 'congrats on keeping them up and that you are going to have a good summer' - I didn't expect it to be quite this good but I suppose he has."
The UEFA Europa League Play-Off draw in full
Astana v BATE, FC Midtjylland v Osmanlispor, AS Trencin v Rapid Vienna, Arouca v Olympiacos, Lokomotiva Zagreb v Genk, Vojvodina v AZ, Dinamo Tbilisi v PAOK Salonika, AEK v Liberec, FK Austria Vienna v Rosenborg, Beitar Jerusalem v St Etienne, AA Gent v Shkendija, Istanbul Basaksehir v Shakhtar Donetsk, FC Astra Giurgiu v West Ham, Sonderjyske v Sparta Prague, Fenerbahce v Grasshoppers, Sassuolo v Crvena Zvezda, Brondby v Panathinaikos, IFK Goteborg v FK Karabakh, Krasnodar v Partizani Tirana, Maccabi Tel-Aviv v Hajduk Split, Slavia Prague v Anderlecht, Maribor v Gabala
Ties to be played August 18 and 25.
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Manchester United fans WERE 'in frightening crush' outside West Ham ground when team bus was attacked
17:36, 6 AUG 2016 UPDATED 17:36, 6 AUG 2016
BY CHRIS SLATER , STEPHEN JONES
Lessons from the 'potential disaster' are set to have an affect on how police will handle Chelsea and Tottenham's final games at their current stadiums in coming years
The Mirror
Manchester United fans WERE caught up in a frightening crush outside the West Ham ground the night their team bus was attacked, according to a new report.
Mirror Online reported at the time how the final ever game at Upton Park in May descended into chaos as the coach carrying the United squad was pelted with bottles and other missiles as it arrived. Kick-off was delayed by 45 minutes as police attempted to restore order and the Reds players were safely escorted inside. But it has now also emerged many Red Devils' supporters were caught up in a crush as the coach was reversed onto the car park. The "potential disaster" has been highlighted in a report by a Manchester United fans' group released last week. And the incident is set to have a direct impact on police handling of Chelsea and Tottenham 's final games at their current stadiums in coming years. On the night of the game, West Ham's last at the Boelyn Ground before moving to the Olympic Stadium, large numbers of West Ham fans had gathered on Green Street and Barking Road close to the ground to soak up the atmosphere. However police reports state that as they "became more intoxicated" they began to block the road and the arrival of the Reds' bus "caused antagonism as it was reversing into a small space".
Four police officers were injured after becoming involved in a "stand-off" with fans as they attempted to clear a path for the coach, which saw five windows damaged. However its arrival also sparked a crush in which some of the around 2,000 United fans who had travelled, as well as Hammers supporters, were caught up with many having to climb into nearby gardens to escape. One Reds fan quoted in the report says: "The police lost control and the officers on the ground froze.
"I was right beside them and they had no clue what to do. "It really was very close to being a tragedy. "I really just do not want these people to brush over what could have been another disaster in this country. "Plenty of West Ham fans there would back that up. It was really going downhill fast."
An investigation was carried out by the Metropolitan Police which found more contingency planning was needed and road closures should have been put in place.
They have vowed to put extra measures in place when Chelsea and Tottenham play their final games at their current stadiums in the upcoming years. Dale Haslam, MUST committee member for away ticketing, safety and related issues, said: "After the game we heard about both United and West Ham fans being caught up in a crush and we were shocked at how serious the crush had become. MUST worked with West Ham and the Metropolitan Police after the game to find out what had gone wrong and why the United team bus was attacked. "It is constructive they have admitted things went wrong and will ensure lessons are learned so this is not repeated."
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Dimitri Payet returns to West Ham training ahead of Premier League opener against Chelsea
Dimitri Payet returns to West Ham a week before the Premier League
Payet will complete individual sessions and join the squad on Monday
The 29-year-old was afforded extra holiday after his Euro 2016 exerts
By PHIL COSTA FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 16:37, 6 August 2016 | UPDATED: 17:24, 6 August 2016
Dimitri Payet has reported back to West Ham training a week before their Premier League opener, after being awarded extra time off following his Euro 2016 exerts. The 29-year-old midfielder starred for France throughout the tournament but was left crestfallen as Didier Deschamps' men lost 1-0 to Portugal in the final last month. Payet is set to complete two individual sessions on Saturday and Sunday, before joining up with the rest of the squad on Monday as they prepare to take on Chelsea at Stamford bridge. Former West Ham defender Tony Gale has caused some controversy after revealing that he believes Manuel Lanzini, not Dimitri Payet, was key to the club's success last season. The Hammers enjoyed a strong first season under manager Slaven Bilic as they finished seventh and secured Europa League football. 'Lanzini is a special player,' he told Sky Sports. 'For me everyone was going on about Payet last season but Lanzini was the one that made it happen. He runs between the lines and he's so important for West Ham.' It now remains to be seen if the likes of Lanzini and Payet can shine again for Slaven Bilic's side next season. Second season syndrome is something that has affected a number of players in the Premier League and it would not be surprising if the Hammers duo suffered some sort of dip in form.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th August 2016
Hammers settle into magnificent new Rush Green base
WHUFC.com
First team move into newly refurbished Rush Green site Manager Slaven Bilic delighted with facilities for his team Training ground move caps off historic week for the Club
Alongside the historic move into the new Stadium and the progression into the play-off stage in the UEFA Europa League, the West Ham players have this week also enjoyed the benefits of moving into a brand new training ground. Slaven Bilic, his backroom team and the first-team squad have made the short switch from Chadwell Heath to Rush Green, which was previously used by the Club's Academy and the players are already reaping the benefits. The Hammers Board made it a priority to improve facilities across all areas and spent millions of pounds to ensure the players have the best facilities possible in the build-up to games. The major refurb has been taking place during the summer and the players are now able to train on four brand new pitches and have top class facilities throughout the complex.
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic says the new facilities at Rush Green are exactly what his team needs. He explained: "Rush Green is exactly what me and my staff wanted. We were delighted to start at our new world class home with a great victory in Europe on Thursday and now we have training facilities that go hand in hand with the Stadium. "The Club has done what we wanted so I have to thank the Chairmen and the Board. "We wanted to make a very good, cosy training ground that the players would enjoy to go to a couple of hours before training and stay there two or three hours afterwards. Somewhere they can bring their kids sometimes. "I'm really happy with the job they have done."
West Ham United's Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandebroucke has no doubts the new training ground will help to get the best out of the players. He said: "The whole training ground has been designed for the players and designed to be compact so that we keep the spirit which is so important at West Ham United. This is our identity. "The dressing room is much bigger and we have great recovery for the players where they have a sauna and plunge pool. "We have a big gym and a fantastic treatment room where all the players needs are catered for. "We have also heavily invested in the quality of our pitches where we already have four to choose from and several more in the coming months."
Head Groundsman Dougie Robertson is also thrilled with the changes that have taken place over the summer and feels the players will only increase their performance at their new training base. Robertson said: "The changes are huge. The facilities that are now available really brings us into the big league and that is where the Club wants to be. The Club has done a fantastic job getting the players what they require and hopefully they can do the same in the league. "We are incredibly fortunate that we will have different kind of pitches for the players to train on. "We will have the old traditional fibre sand, the Desso pitches which we had at Upton Park and now the new Stadium and a new product called AirFibr which we are trialling in the rehab area and a specialist product which is proven to be softer for players coming back from injury."
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Hammers coach ready for Chelsea clash
WHUFC.com
Development Squad coach Liam Manning says the side's fixture against Chelsea will be tough The Friday match is the U23s' final pre-season clash before their league campaign kicks-off Manning also highlighted the side's aims for the season
The Development Squad have a tough task on their hands in their final pre-season clash against Chelsea on Friday, according to coach Liam Manning. The young Hammers side face Stoke City in their first league match of the season next Saturday but first take on the Blues in their last preparation fixture. And Manning, who oversees the side alongside Academy Manager Terry Westley, is looking forward to the test Chelsea will offer. He said: "They have been massively successful in the last few years across all development ages really, so it's going to be great for us to go and test ourselves against one of the top teams in the country. "They're probably the best around at the moment in England. We want to go out there and play well, but we also want to maximise minutes for some of the players given that we start our season the week after. "We want to get some 90 minutes for the players but we also want to show that we have players on their level of football. That's ultimately the aim, but of course we're expecting a tough game."
Ahead of the league campaign, Manning was also keen to highlight his aims for the season and what the Academy would consider a successful year. "We obviously won the U21 Premier League Cup last season, so that taste of silverware could drive the players to strive for more this season. Everything we do, we do to our own style and philosophy but ultimately that's because we want to win games and produce players. "A good season for us is to get our lads appearances in the first team That's always the ultimate goal and the number one aim. "That's what an Academy is for, and to improve upon the quality that we already have. The biggest thing is getting another player in the team."
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Hammers to face Astra Giurgiu in play-off round
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will face Astra Giurgiu of Romania in the UEFA Europa League play-off round. After beginning life at London Stadium with a 3-0 victory over NK Domzale - a result that gave Slaven Bilic's men a 4-2 aggregate success in the third qualifying round - Friday's draw pitted the Hammers against a team who they faced in Europa League qualifiying last term. The draw provisionally gives the Hammers a trip to the southern Romanian city of Giurgiu for the first leg, with the return game at London Stadium taking place a week later. With a two-legged tie standing between West Ham and a place in the Europa League group stages, they will be looking to join Manchester United and Southampton in representing England in the competition proper. The Hammers are no strangers to taking on Astra Girugiu, having been knocked out by the Romanian side in Europa League qualifying last term. Astra went on to win their domestic league, but were defeated in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round by FC Kobenhavn, placing them in the Europa League play-off round. The play-off round tie will be played on August 18 and 25. Full fixture and ticketing details will follow shortly.
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Nordtveit - It was a special night
WHUFC.com
Nordtveit is ready to make big impact this season The Norway international was honoured to be part of such a historic night Nordtveit spent five-years in the Bundesliga
Havard Nordtveit felt honoured to be part of a historic night at the new Stadium and hopes to enjoy many magical moments with West Ham United this season. Nordtveit became the first signing of the summer following his move from Borussia Monchengladbach and has enjoyed settling into his new surroundings. The Norway international relished the chance to make his first appearance at London Stadium on Thursday night and played his part in a convincing 3-0 win over NK Domzale in the UEFA Europa League. Nordtveit says he will never forget the atmosphere that greeted the players when they first walked out onto the pitch and is looking forward to playing in front of a capacity crowd on a regular basis. Nordtveit said: "It was a special night, not only for me but for the whole team, with 'Bubbles' being played when you walk out. There's always something special and the crowd were fantastic so we're looking forward to more of those games. "We just had to focus on playing our game and enjoying the game. We knew that we had better qualities than the others and I think that we showed that in part of the game and it's nice to just go further into the play-offs. "Of course there's always some nerves but I think we were all quite sure that we had the quality to beat them at home. You always want to make a good start and this was a good start at the new Stadium."
Nordtveit says he has enjoyed being back in London and hopes to cement his place in the team ahead of the opening Premier League game against Chelsea. He added: "Coming from Germany to England I'm still trying to adapt to the football a little bit but so far, so good. "I'm really happy to be a part of the Hammers and looking forward to playing many more games.
"I had five-and-a-half good years in Germany and now I've played in the Bundesliga I know how that league is. I want to try to get as many games as possible in the Premier League and also the other cups and everything here with West Ham."
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Stat's a Fact
WHUFC.com
Cheikhou Kouyate's new attacking role could see the athletic African become a regular goalscorer for the Hammers. A look back through Cheikhou Kouyate's career history suggests the Senegal midfielder has never been particularly proficient in front of goal. The 26-year-old had never netted twice in the same match before marking West Ham United's first match at London Stadium - and the 321st club appearance of his career - by doing just that.
With Norway international Havard Nordtveit providing a disciplined shield in front of the back four, breaking up opposition attacks and setting the Hammers on their way with short, intelligent passes to his more creative teammates. One of the beneficiaries of Nordtveit's presence was Kouyate, who made the most of his more-advanced position on the pitch to terrorise the NK Domzale defence. With his long strides, strength and desire, as well as his under-rated technical ability, the No8 can cause problems in many different ways. On Thursday, it was his presence in the penalty area that enabled him to pounce for both of his first-half goals. The first saw Kouyate race into the box and maintain his position on the edge of the six-yard box, from where he expertly flicked Sam Byram's low cross past goalkeeper Axel Maraval. Seventeen minutes later, the Dakar-born star was again just a few yards from Maraval's goal when Andy Carroll steered Michail Antonio's deep cross into his path, and Kouyate again needed just one touch to prod the ball past the Frenchman.
In all, Kouyate had three shots, all of them on target, and scored two goals. When you consider that West Ham produced six shots on target as a team, the former Anderlecht man's contribution becomes all the more important. The popular midfielder scored just nine goals in 246 appearances in Belgian football, including six in 206 for the all-conquering Anderlecht.
However, the signs were there last season that Kouyate could hit the net more often if given the chance further up the field, when he scored five in 42 games for the Hammers. Now it seems that Slaven Bilic wants to give his 'great engine and determination and quality' a chance to flourish in attacking areas, and West Ham look set to benefit. If Kouyate gets into the opposition penalty area regularly, he will get chances. He is quicker than he looks, strong, anticipates opportunities to get to the ball before others and can finish with his feet and his head. In short, we can expect more goals and more 'Lions of Teranga' - the Senegal national team's nickname - celebrations! Fans putting the final touches to their fantasy football teams for the coming Premier League campaign could find a sneaky bargain in the shape of West Ham's newly-prolific No8!
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
It has been a memorable 24 hours for the West Ham United following the historic first game to be played at the new Stadium and the convincing victory in the Europa League which saw the Hammers qualify for the play-off round.
There looks to be more good news for Slaven Bilic as my sources have told me that the Club are set to make a substantial signing within the next 72 hours.
The Club have been linked with a number of top forwards throughout the summer and they now look set to finally land one of their targets.
Reports in the media have also suggested that the Club were close to securing a loan move for Inter Milan defender Davide Santon.
But it is my understanding that the move has fallen through and the Club are now looking at other targets.
With Aaron Cresswell ruled out for three to four months, the Club were not prepared to take any risks over signing another left back and hope for more news on another defender in the next few days.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
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Joint-Chairman - We have unfinished business
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan says the Club have unfinished business against Astra Giurgiu in the UEFA Europa League.
The Hammers were drawn to face the Romanian side once again in the play-off round after securing a 4-2 aggregate win over NK Domzale.
Slaven Bilic and his players are no strangers to facing Astra Giurgiu after they played them in the qualifying stage last season.
Goals from Enner Valencia and Mauro Zarate looked to have put the Hammers in pole position to win the first leg, but the Romanian side scored two late goals to come away with a 2-2 draw.
That proved crucial as they recorded a 2-1 win in the second leg against a young Hammers side as Slaven Bilic rested a number of key players ahead of the opening Premier League game of the season against Arsenal, just three days later.
But Mr Sullivan is confident that the Hammers will have enough quality to beat them this time around and hopes the fans will turn up in their numbers once again as the Club once again plan reduced ticket prices for the home leg on August 25.
Mr Sullivan said: "We have unfinished business with them.
"They are the champions of Romania last season, so it won't be an easy game.
"It's not ideal as there is a lot of travelling and the away leg is before the vital home game against Bournemouth.
"We will price the games cheaply with kids from £7.50 and adults from £10."
Tickets will go on sale to Bondholders and Season Ticket holders from 9am on Saturday 6 August.
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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Mirror Online sports editor and West Ham United Season Ticket Holder Matty Lawless reflects on a successful first night and looks ahead to stern tests to come...
Well, how about that for a house warming party?
West Ham put in a performance befitting of our magnificent new home on Thursday, giving 54,000 fans a glorious taste of things to come here.
If this really is the future, then sign me up for more of it. European football must become a permanent fixture – fans want it and so do the players.
It was good to see Slaven Bilic's side thrive in the atmosphere. It could have been easy to have froze. But they set tone early from the outset and shone.
If any rival Premier League managers were watching, they won't relish the prospect of facing Slaven Bilic's side here if that's what they'll have to contend with.
Let's be honest though, if you were walking out through that tunnel you would probably feel compelled to put in a performance worthy of giving the place justice. It's world class.
But with the greatest respect to NB Domzale, we can now look forward to seeing West Ham come up against some genuine world class opposition, starting with our Play-off round clash with Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu.
Sunday afternoon presents the truest test of whether Bilic's men are ready to handle the great expectations now set upon them – in more than one way.
There was talk that Sunday's game would be against Barcelona. But in Juventus, West Ham couldn't have asked for a better team to face ahead of next the Premier League curtain-raiser at Chelsea.
Yes, Sunday is all about the official opening ceremony of the stadium. Yet the focus has to be on Stamford Bridge a week next Monday. And for that, playing Juventus are absolutely the ideal preparation for Chelsea away.
As opening games come, it's far from desirable. When I saw it in June, I must confess I felt slightly queasy. For me, there's a real nervousness.
Why? Antonio Conte.
The Italian is a man on a mission. He is a winner. He is relentless in the pursuit of success. And he arrives in England with the expectation of restoring the Blues into a formidable force.
After last season's dire title defence, Chelsea know the can ill-afford another season without Champions League football. Make no mistake, that won't happen again this season.
They have strengthened in key areas, so it's no surprise to see many pundits backing Chelsea to launch a title charge.
Michy Batshuayi and N'Golo Kante are quality signings. Keeping hold of Eden Hazard was the real masterstroke. Expect him the rediscover his magic this term, especially if he plays in a central role.
Chelsea now have serious strength in depth – and Conte will provide tactical discipline and install a competitive hunger.
Hand me a draw now and I'd take it. Perhaps that's a bit of the "old West Ham" coming out in me.
A win over Juve – a team Conte truly fashioned into unstoppable Italian champions – would underline why there are so many reasons to feel positive as part of the "new West Ham".
Last season, I correctly predicted the Hammers would beat Arsenal 2-0 on the opening day of the season at the Emirates. The rest, as we all know, is history. So, I'll stick my neck on the line and say 2-0 again... with Dimitri Payet returning with a masterclass.
Enjoy the game on Sunday – with the likes of Gonzalo Higuain and Gigi Buffon in town, we are surely all in for a real treat!
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily the opinions held by West Ham United.
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Tickets start at £10 for Europa play-off clash
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that adult tickets for the UEFA Europa League play-off round home leg against Astra Giurgiu will start at just £10.
After a record-breaking 53,914 Hammers fans flocked to London Stadium to watch Slaven Bilic's men ease past Slovenian side NK Domzale in the third qualifying round, adults will again be able to purchase tickets in bands four and five for £10.
Tickets for under-16s are priced at just £7.50 in bands one to five, as the Hammers show their continued commitment to affordable family football.
Tickets go on sale to Season Ticket Holders from 9am on Saturday 6 August, with their priority lasting until Friday 12 August. Full pricing and sale dates as follows.
Band Adult U21/O65 U16
1966 £30 £30 £30
Band 1 £20 £20 £7.50
Band 2 £15 £15 £7.50
Band 3 £15 £15 £7.50
Band 4 £10 £10 £7.50
Band 5 £10 £10 £7.50
Tickets go on sale from:
Season Ticket Holders 9am, Saturday 6 August
Claret Members Friday 12 August
General Sale Monday 15 August
Supporters will be able purchase tickets online by clicking here, over the telephone on 0871 529 1966* or in person from the London Stadium Ticket Office.
Hospitality packages for the visit of Astra Giurgiu are also available and supporters can enjoy a night of exciting European action at London Stadium for just £149+VAT person.
Please call 0871 091 1811* to book your hospitality package.
*Calls are charged at 13p/min plus your phone provider's access charge.
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5/8/16 - EARLY MORNING NEWS ROUND-UP
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 5 AUGUST 2016 AT 10:39AM TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Carlos Bacca U-turn? -
According to a report from Calciomercato this morning AC Milan are making a push for Carlos Bacca to accept the offer on the table to join West Ham. An agreement has been in place with the Serie A Giants for some weeks now and they have become frustrated because they can't do any transfer business themselves until Bacca moves on. They report that Bacca has been reconsidering his decision since West Ham progressed into the Playoff Round of the Europa League with their convincing win last night against NK Domzale.
Bilic wants to add at least 5 players to the squad? -
As per an interview after the win last night Slaven confirmed that he believes his squad is too small at present to cope with a busy schedule of 5 games in August, with 2 Europa League Playoff games and 3 Premier League games against, Chelsea, Bournemouth and Manchester City. The Manager stated that he hopes to add a minimum of 5 players prior to the Premier League opener at Stamford Bridge Monday week.
Bilic shocked at Sakho's failed medical -
The Manager stated last night that he was very surprised that the Senegalese striker's proposed move to WBA was cancelled after the player reportedly failed a medical. Slaven added "I don't know any details. I'm a bit surprised with that," "He's our player, contracted for us and could be a great player. That's all I can say about it. I am a bit sorry for him and a bit surprised that he didn't pass the medical."
Ayew deal hits snag? -
According to Ghanaweb.com, Andre Ayew's move to the Hammers could be in jeopardy after Diafra Sakho's proposed move to WBA was cancelled. The website believes that Andre's proposed move to West Ham hinges on the potential sale of Sakho. We should know very soon if this story has any legs considering reports that Llorente is set to move to Swansea in the very near future after the Welsh side reportedly agreed terms with Sevilla and the player.
Hammers to learn next Europa League Opponents -
The Hammers will learn who their next opponents will be in the Europa League Playoff Round at 12-00 midday today. Possible teams they could face include
7 Qäbälä (AZE)
8 Slavia Praha (CZE)
9 Brøndby (DEN)
10 Grasshoppers (SUI)
11 Astra Giurgiu* (ROU)
12 Partizani Tirana* (ALB)
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West Ham face Astra in Europa League play-off
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 5th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
There's revenge on the cards for West Ham after they drew Astra Giurgiu, again, in the next stage of the Europa League.
The Romanian side put West Ham out of the competition last season at the third qualifying round stage and Slaven Bilic's side will no doubt be keen to gain revenge for that particular defeat.
The full draw was as follows; all ties to be played on 18 and 25 August:
Pots 1&2
Astana (KAZ) v Bate (BLR)
AEK Lamaca (CYP) v Liverec (CZE)
Dinamo Tibilisi (GEO) v PAOK (GRE)
Arouca (POR) v Olympiacos (GRE)
Austria Wien (AUS) v Rosenborg (NOR)
Midtjylland (DEN) v Osmanlıspor (TUR)
Beitar Jerusalem (ISR) v St-Étienne (FRA)
Trenčín (SVK) v Rapid Wien (AUT)
Lokomotiva Zagreb (CRO) v Genk (BEL)
Vojvodina(SRB) v AZ (NED)
Pots 3&4
Maribor (SVN) v Qäbälä (AZE)
Gent (BEL) v Shkëndija (MKD)
Slavia Praha (CZE) v Anderlecht (BEL)
İstanbul Başakşehir (TUR) v Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR)
Astra (ROU) v West Ham Utd (ENG)
Sønderjyske (DEN) v Sparta Praha (CZE)
Brøndby (DEN) v Panathinaikos (GRE)
Göteborg (SWE) v Qarabağ (AZE)
Slavia Praha (CZE) v Anderlecht (BEL)
Fenerbahçe(TUR) v Grasshoppers (SUI)
Krasnodar (RUS) v Partizani (ALB)
Sassuolo (ITA) v Crvena Zvezda (SRB)
M Tel-Aviv (ISR) v Hajduk Split (CRO)
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Corden to launch new series of KUMB Podcast!
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 5th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
The KUMB Podcast returns next week for it's fifth series - and the star guest for Episode 1 is a belter.
West Ham fan and The Late, Late Show host James Corden will be launching the new series of the Podcast when he steps into the hotseat next week alongside regular host Chris Scull and his former sidekick, James Longman.
And Corden, the star of the hilarious 'Carpool' videos who admits to being a keen fan of the KUMB Forum will have plenty to say about his beloved Hammers, despite living some 5,500 miles away from the club's home in California!
The KUMB Podcast began with Series 1 back in 2012, when guests such as Tony Cottee, Tony Gale and David Gold appeared.
Series 2, which ran from August 2013 through May 2014 saw people such as Billy Bonds, Ludo Miklosko, Julian Dicks and Frank McAvennie pass through our Soho studio whilst Series 3 - which covered the 2014/15 season - featured the likes of Teddy Sheringham, Trevor SInclair and Jack Collison.
In Series 4, which ran throughout the 2015/16 campaign, we kicked of with Russell Brand before welcoming guests such as David, Dave and Jack Sullivan, Danny Dyer, Mark 'Lawro' Lawrenson and Ian Pearce to our studio.
To listen to any of the above Podcasts, or any from the first four series, visit the Podcast home page (or click on the link in the main menu above).
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Irons fan makes Betway Cup 'Man of the Match' trophy
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 5th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Russ Williams was raised in east London and learned the trade of metalwork at his dad's firm in Stratford.
The lifelong West Ham United supporter, then, was the perfect person to design and create the Betway Cup's Man of the Match trophy - a fixture which celebrates the club's exciting future, but also its esteemed history.
And like the all-blue commemorative strip that Slaven Bilic's players will wear against Juventus on Sunday, the trophy is inspired by the Thames Ironworks and company owner Arnold Hills.
"To be approached was a great honour," says Russ, 56. "It didn't take me long to actually decide the way I was going to make it.
"When you think of the Thames Ironworks, you immediately think of ships and bridges. In those days, everything was made of plate and rivets.
"They didn't have the technology like they have now. And I think the way metalwork was made then was fantastic."
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The Piccadilly report
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th August 2016
By: Gordon Thrower
As one supporter is found not guilty of public order offences after the FA Cup Quarter Final trip to Old Trafford, we have obtained a copy of British Transport Police's report into the chaotic scenes at Manchester's Piccadilly station that evening.
KUMB.com's Gordon Thrower – who was there – picks over the bones of the report, which highlights some spectacularly incompetent planning on the part of certain parts of the rail network….
As the fixture list arrives it is annoying to note that yet again we are denied a nice bank holiday weekend away at Bournemouth, a trip up to Manchester being the order of the day. Thinking back to our last visit to that part of the world, a report on the appalling scenes that took place at the station that evening has now arrived at kumb towers. The report was prepared by British Transport Police in response to a complaint made into the crowd control – such as it was – at Manchester Piccadilly after the FA Cup Quarter Final visit to Old Trafford.
As it happens the complaint was misplaced. The body responsible for crowd control at that station is Network Rail and BTP simply turned up at NR's request to try and sort things out when it became clear that things were getting out of hand. However, rather than leave it there, having received the complaint BTP did actually go through with an investigation. So what actually did go wrong?
What Happened
To put it briefly, once the match had finished at Old Trafford thousands of people travelling home by rail turned up at Piccadilly station where, because access to the relevant platforms was restricted by the station authorities, people were unable to board their booked trains. People were arriving at the station faster than could leave by train due to the restricted access to the platforms. Passengers were bumped onto later trains with a result that trains to London that evening were dangerously overloaded. The 19:35 for example carried 1,100 passengers on a train designed to seat 650.
What went wrong?
On the railway side of things nobody really emerges with any credit. NR obviously needed to have some indication of the number of likely travellers. A BTP contact told us that, on average, it is usual for planning to be based on 10% of spectators arriving at Old Trafford by public transport. Given our increased Cup allocation, that would have meant a basic estimate of, say, 900 supporters heading home that night via Piccadilly.
Just to be safe, NR contacted the train company for a clearer indication of numbers. Virgin Trains cheerfully told NR that they weren't expecting any more passengers than usual .Quite what this forecast was based on is not totally clear. However, it seems likely that the forecast concentrated on travellers making a day trip up for the match. If that is the case, they ignored/forgot/were not aware of one very important fact: that large numbers of supporters (myself included) had travelled up on the Friday and Saturday prior to the match in order to make a weekend of it. And all those supporters wanted to get home on the Sunday evening.
Planning
Whether or not NR would have done anything different had they been aware of the numbers travelling is not known. What we do know is that they implemented a pre-set plan that was based on dealing with a completely different set of circumstances. That plan proved to be inadequate.
Back in October 2015 Manchester hosted two rugby matches. In the Union World Cup the England XV took on Uruguay in the afternoon in a "dead rubber" group match. Later that evening Old Trafford played host to the Rugby League Super League Grand Final between Wigan and Leeds. The travel profile was pretty easy to work out. The main custom for travel towards London was the Union match which was over several hours before the League match kicked off.
Supporters travelling by train for the Super League match from Wigan would have used trains direct from stations close to Old Trafford – both Salford stations have direct services to Wigan. Leeds supporters would have used both Piccadilly and Victoria stations. Also, it being a Saturday, many would have stayed for the weekend, much as we did.
In other words the anticipated numbers of people using the railways at any one time that night were probably lower than for our match and journeys from the rugby supporters would have been spread over a longer period of time and a larger geographical area.
So why anyone thought it would work for our Quarter Final is anyone's guess.
Crowd 'Control'
So what was the masterplan that NR relied on? Well it helps to know a bit about the layout at Piccadilly station. In the main part of the station access to the platforms 1-8 is via set of 4 glass doors. In theory, once through the door access is available to any of platforms 1-8.
On the night in question, London trains were departing from platforms 6&7 – either side of the same platform. Access to that platform was restricted to the one glass door serving that platform and barriers had been put up on the other side of the door to prevent access from other doors and platforms.
In front of the doors NR had erected barriers forming a sort of cattle-pen zig zag funnel in front of the doors. This, and the fact that passengers were forced to use just the one door to access the platform slowed down the flow of passengers onto the trains to a trickle: for every four or five people actually getting access to the platform there were probably 20 or more arriving on the concourse. Which is fine, as long as you have an infinite amount of time and space to play with,.At Manchester Piccadilly, they haven't.
What Happened Next?
Basically a predictable and avoidable shambles. The concourse filled up. People booked on earlier trains were stuck behind people booked on later trains. Those at the back were not aware of the existence of the cattle pen so that those nearest the pen were getting crushed against it. NB: An interesting thing to come out of the BTP report is that whilst the Office Of The Rail Regulator (or "Fat Controller" as we used to call him) has plenty to say on the subject of overcrowded trains, BTP could find no guidance on overcrowding at stations. Which is odd.
Back at Piccadilly, NR sort of panicked. According to BTP some 3-3,500 passengers had arrived to travel rather than the 900 or so Network Rail had planned for. It being a Sunday evening NR didn't have the staff to cope so they called in BTP. It being a Sunday evening, BTP were also a bit short on numbers so they called in help from local forces, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and South Yorkshire.
In order to speed up boarding BTP asked Virgin Trains to cancel all reservations and to "declassify" the last few trains, meaning it was a free-for-all. I'm not sure exactly when that decision was taken or how that was communicated to passengers. If the 19:35 train, for example, was declassified nobody told me. When I arrived on board a foreign tourist was sat in my place and, despite the fact that I would be as much use in a fight as a Spurs player in an England shirt, they vacated my seat at the merest wave of my ticket – presumably intimidated by the large numbers of "hard-looking" football supporters in the carriage.
Unsurprisingly, thanks to the declassification, tempers got a bit frayed with passengers on later trains at least finding seats that they thought they had reserved were occupied and one of the London-bound services extended its booked stop at Stockport whilst scuffles calmed down.
Back at the station complaints on the ground were ignored – the general attitude to football supporters from rail companies and police alike seems to have been one of contempt. My own suggestion that some of the other doors to the platforms be opened to improve flow from the concourse to the platforms was greeted with the sort of reaction that suggested that I would be wise not to pursue the idea if I actually wanted to get home that night.
Others were not so lucky. One, who on seeing a kid getting crushed against a barrier, protested with a verbal force and dexterity perhaps more traditional of the tabloids' stereotypical football supporter than I had earlier employed and found himself arrested by Greater Manchester Police. After a night in the cells, he was charged with a ludicrous public order offence "Causing harm distress or harassment to a member of the public". Thankfully the charge was thrown out when it finally got to court, though the chap involved was forced to wait until a hearing at the end of June to find out.
Arguably, the actions of Network Rail that day caused infinitely more "harm, distress or harassment" to members of the public than a few choice words of Anglo Saxon could ever do. The fact that the arrest was made in the first place not for the first time raises concerns over attitudes to football supporters in general. Would that arrest have taken place the previous October, for example, had the crush involved those Rugby Union supporters? I'd be willing to bet that it wouldn't have.
Some of the reporting in the mainstream press was also predictably slanted: "Violence Erupts" was the description by one newspaper (you can guess which one) of a scene which, given the circumstances, was remarkably well-behaved. This appears to be a general malaise amongst the UK press when reporting about football supporters – just look at some of the stuff from Euro16 where the treatment of mostly innocent England supporters by some genuinely frightening Russian psychopaths (who probably thought that the execrable "Green Street" was a documentary) was portrayed in a manner as to suggest that the victims had it coming to them because, well "they are English Football Supporters aren't they".
So what next?
Well at least some good came out of the complaint. Network Rail have decided that for, Cup matches anyway, they will start from the assumption that 50% of supporters will arrive by rail and will change their crowd management plans so that the station copes better with the numbers involved. Apparently a new plan was instigated for the Europa League match against Liverpool which took place a few days later which seemed to go ok – though again comparisons with our match aren't necessarily totally valid given the geographies involved.
As for attitudes to supporters though, I fear old habits die hard in some quarters. Treating supporters with contempt has had lethal consequences in the past and it was pure good luck hat there were no serious injuries this time around. However, even when things got bad nobody seemed in any way inclined to consider listening to those affected.
For the record we did contact Network Rail to invite comment on the report but at the time of writing we've had neither acknowledgement nor response from them. However, we do believe in the right of reply – we're good like that around here. So, needless to say, if anyone from NR does want to chip in with a comment they should contact either the editor or myself – contact details are available elsewhere on the site and you should also have the address from which I originally contacted you.
As mentioned, our next visit to Manchester will be another Sunday trip (thanks to tv) to see us take on City. It's bank holiday weekend so numbers up for a night or two out will probably be quite high so we'll be able to see the new plans for ourselves.
Will I go? Probably. Will I go by train? Hmmm let me get back to you on that one...
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be attributed to, KUMB.com.
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West Ham's first night at London Stadium hailed by honorary life president Terry Brown
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 05/08/16 6:04pm
SSN
West Ham's honorary life president Terry Brown hailed a "truly magical night" in the club's history after they crowned their opening match at London Stadium with a 3-0 victory over NK Domzale in the Europa League. The Hammers started life at their new home in front of a near 54,000 sell-out crowd on Thursday and did not disappoint, overturning a 2-1 first leg deficit through two goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and one from summer signing Sofiane Feghouli to advance to the play-off round.
Brown believes huge praise must go to West Ham's current owners David Gold and David Sullivan as well as vice-chairman Karren Brady for overseeing the move from the Boleyn Ground and is confident the club can build on their maiden success at London Stadium. "They deserve enormous credit, they have made the whole thing happen and worked their socks off, all of them have," Brown, who was West Ham's chairman for 15 years between 1991 and 2006, told Sky Sports. "It was magical night for the club. It's an enormous platform for the club, we did fantastic last season and now we've got the stadium, the sky is the limit."
Gold and Sullivan completed their takeover of West Ham in 2010 and immediately signalled their intention to move the club to the then Olympic Stadium. After an arduous bidding campaign, West Ham finally secured a 99-year lease to become the main tenants of the stadium in March 2013 and set about making the necessary reconfigurations to ensure it was fit for football. Brown added: "They've done an absolutely fantastic job for the club. The two Davids and Karren have been fantastic, we're very lucky they came when they did. "We've got very ambitious owners and, with the European nights, that's the way they want to go. There's no reason to think they will not be able to do it on a regular basis. "Everybody is desperate for this to work and there is no doubt that this is going to work. It is a top drawer stadium, that's absolutely certain. It's all very exciting and extremely positive. "I was overwhelmed and I couldn't really believe it to be honest. It was truly remarkable. There has been so much effort, attention to detail and work that has gone in. It's a club to be proud of. "I was thrilled and thrilled with the stadium. I think they've done a fantastic job, it's a great stadium and we're all extremely proud of it. I think everybody is."
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Slaven Bilic urges West Ham to hurry up with new players and could use Diafra Sakho By Lyall Thomas Last Updated: 05/08/16 8:09am SSN
Slaven Bilic says West Ham urgently need new players after the club moved a step closer to the Europa League group stage - and he admitted he may yet be forced to use Diafra Sakho.
The Hammers beat NK Domzale in their first ever match at the London Stadium to secure a play-off clash, and Bilic's side could therefore play five games before the end of the month.
Bilic is still without Euro 2016 stars Dimitri Payet, James Collins and Angelo Ogbonna, while several key players face injury lay-offs, and he admits his side's start to the Premier League could be hampered. "I have no problems saying that playing in the Europa League lowers your chances in the Premier League," Bilic said. "It doesn't matter, we want to try. It brings positive things. You gain something, you lose something. "Basically we have five games before the September international break and this squad is not big enough. Hopefully we will have a minimum of five players to add to this squad."
Sakho's potential move to West Brom collapsed on Thursday after he failed a medical and, although Bilic admitted he was "surprised", he suggested he wants the player to be an asset for them. "I don't know any details. He's our player, he's contracted to us, and could be a great player. That's all I can say about it. "I am a bit sorry for him and a bit surprised that he didn't pass the medical. He's a good player, he's our player and as long as he is our player he is very capable. He's a quality player."
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PAULO FREITAS ON WHAT JONATHAN CALLERI WILL BRING TO WEST HAM MICHAEL OLIVER @ReadWestHam
Once the 2016 Rio Olympics are over and done with, West Ham are expected to complete the signing of Deportivo Maldonado striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old striker made his name in Argentina with Boca Juniors before being bought by the wealthy Uruguayan outfit and immediately shipped out on loan to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo in January.
In 31 appearances for Sao Paulo, Calleri netted 16 goals earning him a place in the Argentina squad for the Olympic Games, who played their first game yesterday and suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss to Portugal.
Calleri is considered as one of the best young forwards in South American football and the Hammers are believed to have beaten off the likes of Barcelona, Sevilla and Inter Milan to his signature. To no surprise, us and many West Ham fans don't know terribly much about Jonathan Calleri, so we sat down with South American football expert Paulo Freitas to find out more.
Jonathan Calleri is a name most West Ham fans would not have been too familiar with prior to this summer, could you detail some of his key attributes?
Technically, Calleri is a very strong player. His aerial ability is impressive and he is a clinical finisher.
Calleri has been touted in the past as the 'new Carlos Tevez' and spent considerable time playing with him at Boca. Would you draw any comparisons in their style of play?
I don't think the style is too similar, Calleri is more like a poacher although he is a bit more than just that. Tevez is shorter but also bulkier and he is also a more complete and technically gifted player.
When Tevez first moved to England with West Ham it took him several months to adjust to the rigours of the Premier League. Would you imagine Calleri facing similar issues?
I think Calleri will adapt quicker, his style is more suited to Premier League and he has a better mentality than Tevez too.
The likes of Inter Milan, Sevilla and Barcelona have all said to have attempted to sign Calleri after he made a name for himself with Sao Palo. Do you think he has the game to be effective in European football?
Calleri is not really good enough for a team like Barcelona right now, but his style is more than good enough to succeed in Europe, No doubt he would have been more than good enough for teams like Sevilla and Inter.
Where does Calleri rank amongst some of the other bright and emerging talents in South America?
I would place him in a second tier of promising South American players, behind the likes of Gabigol and new Manchester City signing Gabriel Jesus, for example, but still above the vast majority of players in the continent.
It's hard to judge now, but knowing what you do about the player, where do you see Calleri in five years?
I expect him to play in a regular basis for Argentina's national team in five years and to have moved to team in Spain or Italy, a team like Atlético de Madrid or Napoli or similar. He has the talent to play at that level one day.
And finally, in one sentence, what should West Ham expect from Jonathan Calleri?
West Ham fans should expect a determined striker with lethal goalscoring skills.
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WHY WEST HAM WILL EXORCISE THEIR EUROPA LEAGUE GROUP-STAGE GHOST
5 August 2016
ladbrokes.co.uk
Slaven Bilic appeared to sacrifice West Ham's bid for a first Europa League group-stage appearance 12 months ago after his side's 2-2 first-leg at home to Astra Giurgiu, with the then-new boss replacing the entire first XI, mostly with youngsters, ahead of the 2-1 second-leg loss.
He had excuses, to an extent, with former skipper Kevin Nolan quoting afterwards: "The gaffer has shown in his selection the main priority is the Premier League and this year the main thing is to make sure we go to the Olympic Stadium in the Premier League."
Bilic managed as much and more, with wins over Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle and Manchester City in his first six top-flight games in charge allaying early fears such as Nolan's, culminating in seventh place and another stab at the continent's consolation cup. There are no excuses now we know how good Dimitri Payet is, and how effectively Bilic utilised fellow new men Pedro Obiang, Angelo Ogbonna, Michail Antonio and Manuel Lanzini, now signed permanently from Al Jazira Club after an impressive loan campaign.
As luck would have it, they've been drawn against the same club at the same stage of the same tournament, giving Bilic a chance to show his true colours. West Ham have had two fewer qualifying matches this term, and while Man City away lies in wait the Sunday after their home second leg, as Arsenal did 12 months ago following the 'disappointment' in Romania, they will at least be a couple of fixtures into the Premier League campaign.
The Irons are 25/1 to win the Europa League, with Manchester United 15/2 favourites.
City's 12/1 odds of winning the Champions League weren't shaken by another trip to Romania, with Steaua Bucharest drawn as Pep Guardiola's first European opponents at the helm of the two-time Premier League champions.
Celtic may feel a little miffed about missing out on League of Ireland side Dundalk, but did manage to avoid tricky Croatian crowd Dinamo Zagreb and Bulgarian nouveau riche Ludogorets Razgrad, with the Scottish Premiership giants, 500/1 to win the Champions League, faced with a trip to Israel's Hapoel Beer-Sheva.
Dundalk, who don't currently attract an outright price in Ladbrokes' Champions League betting, will play Polish champions Legia Warsaw.
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New signing Havard Nordtveit excited about West Ham future after "special" first night in the London Stadium 13:00, 5 AUG 2016 UPDATED 13:38, 5 AUG 2016 BY NEIL MCLEMAN The 26-year-old is back in the Premier League after leaving Arsenal six years ago The Mirror
West Ham's new signing Havard Nordtveit has insisted he has nothing to prove on his return to English football. The Norway midfielder signed for Arsenal in 2007 but never made a first-team appearance. He was loaned out three times before being sold to Borussia Monchengladbach in 2010. But Nordtveit, now 26, is now back in the Premier League after joining the Hammers on a five-year deal after a Bosman transfer. He made his home debut in the Europa League play-off win over NK Domzale at the new London Stadium and described it as a "special night". Nordveit, who signed on a Bosman deal, said: "I feel settled in already. "Of course, coming from Germany to England I'm still trying to adapt to the football a little bit but so far, so good. I'm really happy to be a part of the Hammers and looking forward to playing many more games. "Do I have anything to prove back in England? No, I had five and a half quite good years in Germany and now I've played in Bundesliga I know how that league is and I want to try to get as many games as possible in the Premier League and also the other cups and everything here with West Ham. It's football."
Slaven Bilic's side won 3-0 to reach the final qualifying round and will now play FC Astra. And Nordtveit added: "It was a special night not only for me but for the whole team, with the 'Bubbles' song on when you walk out there's always something special and also the crowd were fantastic so we're looking forward to more of those games. "Of course there's always some nerves but I think we all were quite sure that we had the quality to beat them at home. Not only that we lost the last game but also the new stadium, you always want to make a good start and today was a good start."
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West Ham midfielder Havard Nordtveit hopeful Bundesliga spell will allow him to impress in the Premier League West Ham played at the their new Olympic Stadium home for the first time Norwegian midfielder Havard Nordtveit made first appearance for club The game came five-and-a-half years after he left London rivals Arsenal He found his form again in Bundesliga with Borussia Monchengladbach By OLIVER TODD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 13:29, 5 August 2016 | UPDATED: 13:29, 5 August 2016
West Ham new boy Havard Nordtveit says he has nothing to prove in England after the former Arsenal youngster made his first appearance for an English club on home soil. Norwegian midfielder Nordtveit looked comfortable anchoring the Hammers' midfield on a special first night at the Olympic Stadium in their 3-0 Europa League win over Domzale on Thursday.
The game came five-and-a-half years after he left London rivals Arsenal for Borussia Monchengladbach having failed to break through under Arsene Wenger. Nordtveit captained the club's reserve side, was given a squad number and named on the bench for the first team but never made it on to the pitch. But his focus lies solely on West Ham now having made his home debut on the first night at their new Olympic Stadium home. 'I had five-and-a-half quite good years in Germany,' Nordtveit said. 'Now I've played in Bundesliga I know how that league is and I want to try to get as many games as possible in the Premier League and also the other cups and everything here with West Ham. 'Of course, coming from Germany to England I'm still trying to adapt to the football a little bit but it's so far, so good. I'm really happy to be a part of the Hammers and looking forward to playing many more games.' Nordveit, 26, played in a three-man midfield alongside West Ham captain Mark Noble and double-goalscorer Cheikhou Kouyate, while another new signing Sofiane Feghouli grabbed the clincher as they overcame a 2-1 first-leg deficit at the Olympic Stadium. Their new home received widespread praise from supporters on Thursday night, but Nordtveit's main memory is of something of a home comfort from Upton Park. 'It was a special night,' he said. 'Not only for me but for the whole team, with the 'Bubbles' song on when you walk out there's always something special and also the crowd were fantastic so we're looking forward to more of those games. 'I felt comfortable from the first minute, I thought the fans might be too far away here but you could hear them as soon as we walked in.'
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West Ham at the London Stadium: New era but the same old traditions for the Hammers KEN DYER Evening Standard
As West Ham's first game in the London Stadium, it could not have gone much better. A comfortable 3-0 victory over Slovenian side NK Domzale and smooth progression into the play-off round of the Europa League. No new injuries for Hammers boss Slaven Bilic as he contemplates the considerable, extra commitment of the Europa League. A full house of 54,000 fans, with the West Ham faithful experiencing, for the first time, their bigger, better and brighter new home. There were comparisons being made everywhere. Instead of Nathan's pie and mash shop on the Barking Road, it was Jamie Oliver's Italian in Westfield. Instead of Queen's Market in Green Street, it was John Lewis.
Some things were the same, though. The first chorus of West Ham's famous old song 'Bubbles' echoed and then finally filled this impressive new stadium, just as it used to do, three miles up the road at the Boleyn. Bilic's final game back there, a dramatic victory over Manchester United, is already fading in the memory yet the old place is the scene of one final piece of drama. Next week, Pierce Brosnan begins shooting Final Score at the Boleyn, a film apparently about a group of armed criminals holding 35,000 fans hostage.
Of course, things were not perfect and everyone, Bilic's team included, will need time to settle in to their new environment. The feat of uprooting to a new stadium, almost doubling your capacity - and then filling it - should, however, not be downplayed. There was plenty of scepticism when West Ham proposed the move about just how many empty seats there would be in the former Olympic Stadium.
Last night there were no open spaces and when West Ham face Bournemouth in their first home Premier League match, the attendance should be up to 60,000 after outstanding works are completed. Owners David Sullivan and David Gold plus vice chairman Karren Brady should take great credit for that.
Yes, there were some quiet moments in the third qualifying round tie, as West Ham overturned a 2-1 first-leg deficit courtesy of Cheikhou Kouyate's double and a goal from Sofiane Feghouli, but that was to be expected against less than top class opposition.
Bilic was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere generated. He said: "I didn't know what the atmosphere would be like. I have heard the people talking about the Rugby World Cup but I wasn't there. This was the first time that we could check and it was more than I expected. It is loud, you can hear the crowd, feel them.
"There is no point in comparing it to Upton Park, it is totally different. It was a good atmosphere and I am not afraid of the new stadium."
Michail Antonio, who sampled the atmosphere at the Boleyn in his first season at the club, also declared himself satisfied with the club's new surroundings.
"It was decent," he said. "The crowd had moments when they were loud. You could feel the vibe and it was great. Hopefully those moments will become more constant."
'I didn't know what the atmosphere would be like but it was more than I expected - it is loud'
Slaven Bilic
What was more important to Antonio and his team-mates were the playing conditions, the pitch and the extra space.
"The pitch was beautiful, one of the best I've ever played on which is good for us because we like to get it down and play," said Antonio.
"Things are looking good. This is the first game so we have to get used to things. The pitch is bigger. Once, I thought I was tight on the touchline but when I looked, I was three yards infield. Now we have another game on Sunday, against Juventus, and by the time we play Bournemouth in our first home Premier League match, I'll be ready and settled in.
"This move can only be good for us. The club have the history and now we have taken the steps to move us on. The bigger stadium will help bring in the revenue to attract better players."
The only worry for Bilic, apart from the long-term injuries to Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini, is the strength of his squad ahead of a demanding Europa League schedule. "Playing in the Europa League does lower your chances in the Premier League," he said.
"You gain and lose something. We have five games before the September break and the squad is not big enough. Hopefully, we'll add two players minimum."
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West Ham analysis: Kouyate sets the tone as the fans find their groove at the Olympic Stadium MATCH REPORT: Kouyate fires Hammers through as the gates open at Stratford JOHN DILLON Evening Standard
It was slightly reminiscent of the beginning of one of those teenage parties when everybody is too self-conscious to get up and dance. But West Ham settled into their new home comfortably enough in the end, even if the choruses of Bubbles were a little apprehensive and the chanting was a trifle muted and uncertain as they saw off the Slovenians of NK Domzale to progress to the Europa League's final play-off round. What else was to be expected? The one thing that was made strikingly vivid as soon as the crowds negotiated Stratford Station and the Olympic Park to head towards the vast new stadium was that the club has undergone one of the most dramatic and instant character changes of any organisation in the history of English football.
Everybody knew this was the case beforehand, of course. This will never be anything like the Boleyn, which was one of the great, intense, blood-rushing, working class theatres of the old football world. But to see the culture shift made real, concrete and unchangeable like this was still a shock to the system of most supporters and consequently, they seemed a little bewildered, a little unsure of themselves and their new surroundings and a little dumb-struck by the occasion in east London on Thursday. Here it all was: A new, unfamiliar ordered, neat, corporate and hi-vis spectacle. Football 2016 style. Hugely exciting and progressive and yet unnerving at first for the faithful, too. It is going to take some getting used to. There are no two ways about it, even if the general and correct acceptance among the faithful is that the move from the Boleyn represents necessary progress. And that really, there was no alternative to accepting the offer once a giant Olympic arena arose from the dirt and the debris into a gleaming new world just down the road.
By the 78th minute here, though, the midfielder, Cheikhou Kouyate was receiving a standing ovation as he was substituted after scoring the two first half goals which put Slaven Bilic's side firmly in command of the tie. And the house-warming effect was beginning. Juventus are in this place on Sunday for the official opening and then, after that, the real business will begin.
"An easy evening's work for West Ham draws to a close and a little history is made with a club-record attendance of 54,000 recorded and a place in the Europa League play-off round secured. It's been a little odd, a little unsettling and a little awkward but very satisfactory too. But then the club and the supporters are in the midst of a change which is altering the whole nature and character of the Hammers. This, too, was a low-key tie against limited opposition in early August. It wouldn't have set Upton Park ablaze with passion, either. The future, however, is here and just for now, it is claret and blue."
That is when the new ground will begin to show its true colours, we presume.
A winter's Saturday evening with Tottenham or Chelsea doing battle in here is likely to electrify the place, even if its newness means it will not replicate the raw and gritty favours of the old ancestral home.
This, by contrast, was something akin to a pre-season friendly played on a warm early August evening with a holiday mood in the air. Yes, it was a competitive tie - in name, anyway, although it was a simple task for West Ham to rectify the mistakes of the first tie.
New signing Sofiane Feghouli added a third midway through the second-half and a simple night's work had been concluded - putting right the dreadful first leg performance in Ljubljana in which the Hammers had succumbed to a surprise 2-1 defeat.
There is no denying that the supporters are far removed from the pitch, which is a huge contrast with the raucous and intimidating intimacy generated for so many uproarious decades across the way in Green Street. But take it from me - it feels closer inside than it looks on TV and in photographs and it can be made to work.
The pitch appears vast, which will suit the yearnings of the faithful here for driving, expansive football. Once the crowd gets used to things and the intensity level of the matches played here is ratcheted up, the noise levels will surely increase in tandem.
Perhaps it is outside the ground, in the clean, open, airy Olympic Park, with its fun fair, its boat rides and its wide open walkways that the contrasts with the old West Ham is most striking.
These surroundings could not be more far removed from the dirty, tumbling, hemmed in streets which enclosed Upton Park. There are no big old Victorian boozers like the famous Boleyn on the corner of Green Street and Barking Road here, either.
But that is the deal, and the fans understand that time has moved on and nothing lasts forever. The whole of football is changing very quickly on a dramatic scale and at very high speed.
These supporters seem ready to buy into this new home and make it live, even if it is going to take a while to settle in. They have no choice, of course. But they know what the claret-and-blue future looks like.
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Juventus star Gianluigi Buffon set to finally play against his beloved West Ham HITC Damien Lucas
Juventus and Italy superstar goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon finally gets the chance to play against his beloved West Ham United this weekend. The Hammers take on the Italian giants in the official opening game at West Ham's new 60,000-seater Olympic Stadium home. It is the final warm-up game ahead of a busy new season for both clubs and is a prestigious event for Slaven Bilic's men given some of the talent in the Serie A champions' squad. They may be shorn of star midfielder Paul Pogba by then but Juve are bolstered by the £75 million signing of Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli and boast almost the entire Italian national team's defence at the back. That includes Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon, one of the best goalkeepers of all time, and an avid West Ham fan. In his book Buffon said that the Hammers were one of five teams he would love to play for. "West Ham: Because of the supporters: I knew the West Ham supporters during my time as a supporter (Ultra)," Buffon wrote in his book when discussing his favourite teams. "Those guys (West Ham supporters) follow the Hammers with an extraordinary energy. And because of the logo (club crest): Two crossed hammers. Almost communist, if I think about it."
Buffon will see first hand just how passionate the Hammers fans are when a sell-out crowd greets him at the Olympic Stadium on Sunday. Indeed West Ham are now officially the second-best supported club in England behind only Manchester United after selling out 52,000 season tickets. Buffon is one of those rare players who is seemingly loved by football fans the world over. A true gentleman, as well as a living legend, Hammers fans will take great pride in his comments about them and are sure to give him a warm reception when he comes to London this weekend.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
First team move into newly refurbished Rush Green site Manager Slaven Bilic delighted with facilities for his team Training ground move caps off historic week for the Club
Alongside the historic move into the new Stadium and the progression into the play-off stage in the UEFA Europa League, the West Ham players have this week also enjoyed the benefits of moving into a brand new training ground. Slaven Bilic, his backroom team and the first-team squad have made the short switch from Chadwell Heath to Rush Green, which was previously used by the Club's Academy and the players are already reaping the benefits. The Hammers Board made it a priority to improve facilities across all areas and spent millions of pounds to ensure the players have the best facilities possible in the build-up to games. The major refurb has been taking place during the summer and the players are now able to train on four brand new pitches and have top class facilities throughout the complex.
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic says the new facilities at Rush Green are exactly what his team needs. He explained: "Rush Green is exactly what me and my staff wanted. We were delighted to start at our new world class home with a great victory in Europe on Thursday and now we have training facilities that go hand in hand with the Stadium. "The Club has done what we wanted so I have to thank the Chairmen and the Board. "We wanted to make a very good, cosy training ground that the players would enjoy to go to a couple of hours before training and stay there two or three hours afterwards. Somewhere they can bring their kids sometimes. "I'm really happy with the job they have done."
West Ham United's Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandebroucke has no doubts the new training ground will help to get the best out of the players. He said: "The whole training ground has been designed for the players and designed to be compact so that we keep the spirit which is so important at West Ham United. This is our identity. "The dressing room is much bigger and we have great recovery for the players where they have a sauna and plunge pool. "We have a big gym and a fantastic treatment room where all the players needs are catered for. "We have also heavily invested in the quality of our pitches where we already have four to choose from and several more in the coming months."
Head Groundsman Dougie Robertson is also thrilled with the changes that have taken place over the summer and feels the players will only increase their performance at their new training base. Robertson said: "The changes are huge. The facilities that are now available really brings us into the big league and that is where the Club wants to be. The Club has done a fantastic job getting the players what they require and hopefully they can do the same in the league. "We are incredibly fortunate that we will have different kind of pitches for the players to train on. "We will have the old traditional fibre sand, the Desso pitches which we had at Upton Park and now the new Stadium and a new product called AirFibr which we are trialling in the rehab area and a specialist product which is proven to be softer for players coming back from injury."
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Hammers coach ready for Chelsea clash
WHUFC.com
Development Squad coach Liam Manning says the side's fixture against Chelsea will be tough The Friday match is the U23s' final pre-season clash before their league campaign kicks-off Manning also highlighted the side's aims for the season
The Development Squad have a tough task on their hands in their final pre-season clash against Chelsea on Friday, according to coach Liam Manning. The young Hammers side face Stoke City in their first league match of the season next Saturday but first take on the Blues in their last preparation fixture. And Manning, who oversees the side alongside Academy Manager Terry Westley, is looking forward to the test Chelsea will offer. He said: "They have been massively successful in the last few years across all development ages really, so it's going to be great for us to go and test ourselves against one of the top teams in the country. "They're probably the best around at the moment in England. We want to go out there and play well, but we also want to maximise minutes for some of the players given that we start our season the week after. "We want to get some 90 minutes for the players but we also want to show that we have players on their level of football. That's ultimately the aim, but of course we're expecting a tough game."
Ahead of the league campaign, Manning was also keen to highlight his aims for the season and what the Academy would consider a successful year. "We obviously won the U21 Premier League Cup last season, so that taste of silverware could drive the players to strive for more this season. Everything we do, we do to our own style and philosophy but ultimately that's because we want to win games and produce players. "A good season for us is to get our lads appearances in the first team That's always the ultimate goal and the number one aim. "That's what an Academy is for, and to improve upon the quality that we already have. The biggest thing is getting another player in the team."
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Hammers to face Astra Giurgiu in play-off round
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will face Astra Giurgiu of Romania in the UEFA Europa League play-off round. After beginning life at London Stadium with a 3-0 victory over NK Domzale - a result that gave Slaven Bilic's men a 4-2 aggregate success in the third qualifying round - Friday's draw pitted the Hammers against a team who they faced in Europa League qualifiying last term. The draw provisionally gives the Hammers a trip to the southern Romanian city of Giurgiu for the first leg, with the return game at London Stadium taking place a week later. With a two-legged tie standing between West Ham and a place in the Europa League group stages, they will be looking to join Manchester United and Southampton in representing England in the competition proper. The Hammers are no strangers to taking on Astra Girugiu, having been knocked out by the Romanian side in Europa League qualifying last term. Astra went on to win their domestic league, but were defeated in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round by FC Kobenhavn, placing them in the Europa League play-off round. The play-off round tie will be played on August 18 and 25. Full fixture and ticketing details will follow shortly.
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Nordtveit - It was a special night
WHUFC.com
Nordtveit is ready to make big impact this season The Norway international was honoured to be part of such a historic night Nordtveit spent five-years in the Bundesliga
Havard Nordtveit felt honoured to be part of a historic night at the new Stadium and hopes to enjoy many magical moments with West Ham United this season. Nordtveit became the first signing of the summer following his move from Borussia Monchengladbach and has enjoyed settling into his new surroundings. The Norway international relished the chance to make his first appearance at London Stadium on Thursday night and played his part in a convincing 3-0 win over NK Domzale in the UEFA Europa League. Nordtveit says he will never forget the atmosphere that greeted the players when they first walked out onto the pitch and is looking forward to playing in front of a capacity crowd on a regular basis. Nordtveit said: "It was a special night, not only for me but for the whole team, with 'Bubbles' being played when you walk out. There's always something special and the crowd were fantastic so we're looking forward to more of those games. "We just had to focus on playing our game and enjoying the game. We knew that we had better qualities than the others and I think that we showed that in part of the game and it's nice to just go further into the play-offs. "Of course there's always some nerves but I think we were all quite sure that we had the quality to beat them at home. You always want to make a good start and this was a good start at the new Stadium."
Nordtveit says he has enjoyed being back in London and hopes to cement his place in the team ahead of the opening Premier League game against Chelsea. He added: "Coming from Germany to England I'm still trying to adapt to the football a little bit but so far, so good. "I'm really happy to be a part of the Hammers and looking forward to playing many more games.
"I had five-and-a-half good years in Germany and now I've played in the Bundesliga I know how that league is. I want to try to get as many games as possible in the Premier League and also the other cups and everything here with West Ham."
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Stat's a Fact
WHUFC.com
Cheikhou Kouyate's new attacking role could see the athletic African become a regular goalscorer for the Hammers. A look back through Cheikhou Kouyate's career history suggests the Senegal midfielder has never been particularly proficient in front of goal. The 26-year-old had never netted twice in the same match before marking West Ham United's first match at London Stadium - and the 321st club appearance of his career - by doing just that.
With Norway international Havard Nordtveit providing a disciplined shield in front of the back four, breaking up opposition attacks and setting the Hammers on their way with short, intelligent passes to his more creative teammates. One of the beneficiaries of Nordtveit's presence was Kouyate, who made the most of his more-advanced position on the pitch to terrorise the NK Domzale defence. With his long strides, strength and desire, as well as his under-rated technical ability, the No8 can cause problems in many different ways. On Thursday, it was his presence in the penalty area that enabled him to pounce for both of his first-half goals. The first saw Kouyate race into the box and maintain his position on the edge of the six-yard box, from where he expertly flicked Sam Byram's low cross past goalkeeper Axel Maraval. Seventeen minutes later, the Dakar-born star was again just a few yards from Maraval's goal when Andy Carroll steered Michail Antonio's deep cross into his path, and Kouyate again needed just one touch to prod the ball past the Frenchman.
In all, Kouyate had three shots, all of them on target, and scored two goals. When you consider that West Ham produced six shots on target as a team, the former Anderlecht man's contribution becomes all the more important. The popular midfielder scored just nine goals in 246 appearances in Belgian football, including six in 206 for the all-conquering Anderlecht.
However, the signs were there last season that Kouyate could hit the net more often if given the chance further up the field, when he scored five in 42 games for the Hammers. Now it seems that Slaven Bilic wants to give his 'great engine and determination and quality' a chance to flourish in attacking areas, and West Ham look set to benefit. If Kouyate gets into the opposition penalty area regularly, he will get chances. He is quicker than he looks, strong, anticipates opportunities to get to the ball before others and can finish with his feet and his head. In short, we can expect more goals and more 'Lions of Teranga' - the Senegal national team's nickname - celebrations! Fans putting the final touches to their fantasy football teams for the coming Premier League campaign could find a sneaky bargain in the shape of West Ham's newly-prolific No8!
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The Insider
WHUFC.com
It has been a memorable 24 hours for the West Ham United following the historic first game to be played at the new Stadium and the convincing victory in the Europa League which saw the Hammers qualify for the play-off round.
There looks to be more good news for Slaven Bilic as my sources have told me that the Club are set to make a substantial signing within the next 72 hours.
The Club have been linked with a number of top forwards throughout the summer and they now look set to finally land one of their targets.
Reports in the media have also suggested that the Club were close to securing a loan move for Inter Milan defender Davide Santon.
But it is my understanding that the move has fallen through and the Club are now looking at other targets.
With Aaron Cresswell ruled out for three to four months, the Club were not prepared to take any risks over signing another left back and hope for more news on another defender in the next few days.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
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Joint-Chairman - We have unfinished business
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan says the Club have unfinished business against Astra Giurgiu in the UEFA Europa League.
The Hammers were drawn to face the Romanian side once again in the play-off round after securing a 4-2 aggregate win over NK Domzale.
Slaven Bilic and his players are no strangers to facing Astra Giurgiu after they played them in the qualifying stage last season.
Goals from Enner Valencia and Mauro Zarate looked to have put the Hammers in pole position to win the first leg, but the Romanian side scored two late goals to come away with a 2-2 draw.
That proved crucial as they recorded a 2-1 win in the second leg against a young Hammers side as Slaven Bilic rested a number of key players ahead of the opening Premier League game of the season against Arsenal, just three days later.
But Mr Sullivan is confident that the Hammers will have enough quality to beat them this time around and hopes the fans will turn up in their numbers once again as the Club once again plan reduced ticket prices for the home leg on August 25.
Mr Sullivan said: "We have unfinished business with them.
"They are the champions of Romania last season, so it won't be an easy game.
"It's not ideal as there is a lot of travelling and the away leg is before the vital home game against Bournemouth.
"We will price the games cheaply with kids from £7.50 and adults from £10."
Tickets will go on sale to Bondholders and Season Ticket holders from 9am on Saturday 6 August.
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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Mirror Online sports editor and West Ham United Season Ticket Holder Matty Lawless reflects on a successful first night and looks ahead to stern tests to come...
Well, how about that for a house warming party?
West Ham put in a performance befitting of our magnificent new home on Thursday, giving 54,000 fans a glorious taste of things to come here.
If this really is the future, then sign me up for more of it. European football must become a permanent fixture – fans want it and so do the players.
It was good to see Slaven Bilic's side thrive in the atmosphere. It could have been easy to have froze. But they set tone early from the outset and shone.
If any rival Premier League managers were watching, they won't relish the prospect of facing Slaven Bilic's side here if that's what they'll have to contend with.
Let's be honest though, if you were walking out through that tunnel you would probably feel compelled to put in a performance worthy of giving the place justice. It's world class.
But with the greatest respect to NB Domzale, we can now look forward to seeing West Ham come up against some genuine world class opposition, starting with our Play-off round clash with Romanian champions Astra Giurgiu.
Sunday afternoon presents the truest test of whether Bilic's men are ready to handle the great expectations now set upon them – in more than one way.
There was talk that Sunday's game would be against Barcelona. But in Juventus, West Ham couldn't have asked for a better team to face ahead of next the Premier League curtain-raiser at Chelsea.
Yes, Sunday is all about the official opening ceremony of the stadium. Yet the focus has to be on Stamford Bridge a week next Monday. And for that, playing Juventus are absolutely the ideal preparation for Chelsea away.
As opening games come, it's far from desirable. When I saw it in June, I must confess I felt slightly queasy. For me, there's a real nervousness.
Why? Antonio Conte.
The Italian is a man on a mission. He is a winner. He is relentless in the pursuit of success. And he arrives in England with the expectation of restoring the Blues into a formidable force.
After last season's dire title defence, Chelsea know the can ill-afford another season without Champions League football. Make no mistake, that won't happen again this season.
They have strengthened in key areas, so it's no surprise to see many pundits backing Chelsea to launch a title charge.
Michy Batshuayi and N'Golo Kante are quality signings. Keeping hold of Eden Hazard was the real masterstroke. Expect him the rediscover his magic this term, especially if he plays in a central role.
Chelsea now have serious strength in depth – and Conte will provide tactical discipline and install a competitive hunger.
Hand me a draw now and I'd take it. Perhaps that's a bit of the "old West Ham" coming out in me.
A win over Juve – a team Conte truly fashioned into unstoppable Italian champions – would underline why there are so many reasons to feel positive as part of the "new West Ham".
Last season, I correctly predicted the Hammers would beat Arsenal 2-0 on the opening day of the season at the Emirates. The rest, as we all know, is history. So, I'll stick my neck on the line and say 2-0 again... with Dimitri Payet returning with a masterclass.
Enjoy the game on Sunday – with the likes of Gonzalo Higuain and Gigi Buffon in town, we are surely all in for a real treat!
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily the opinions held by West Ham United.
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Tickets start at £10 for Europa play-off clash
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that adult tickets for the UEFA Europa League play-off round home leg against Astra Giurgiu will start at just £10.
After a record-breaking 53,914 Hammers fans flocked to London Stadium to watch Slaven Bilic's men ease past Slovenian side NK Domzale in the third qualifying round, adults will again be able to purchase tickets in bands four and five for £10.
Tickets for under-16s are priced at just £7.50 in bands one to five, as the Hammers show their continued commitment to affordable family football.
Tickets go on sale to Season Ticket Holders from 9am on Saturday 6 August, with their priority lasting until Friday 12 August. Full pricing and sale dates as follows.
Band Adult U21/O65 U16
1966 £30 £30 £30
Band 1 £20 £20 £7.50
Band 2 £15 £15 £7.50
Band 3 £15 £15 £7.50
Band 4 £10 £10 £7.50
Band 5 £10 £10 £7.50
Tickets go on sale from:
Season Ticket Holders 9am, Saturday 6 August
Claret Members Friday 12 August
General Sale Monday 15 August
Supporters will be able purchase tickets online by clicking here, over the telephone on 0871 529 1966* or in person from the London Stadium Ticket Office.
Hospitality packages for the visit of Astra Giurgiu are also available and supporters can enjoy a night of exciting European action at London Stadium for just £149+VAT person.
Please call 0871 091 1811* to book your hospitality package.
*Calls are charged at 13p/min plus your phone provider's access charge.
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5/8/16 - EARLY MORNING NEWS ROUND-UP
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 5 AUGUST 2016 AT 10:39AM TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Carlos Bacca U-turn? -
According to a report from Calciomercato this morning AC Milan are making a push for Carlos Bacca to accept the offer on the table to join West Ham. An agreement has been in place with the Serie A Giants for some weeks now and they have become frustrated because they can't do any transfer business themselves until Bacca moves on. They report that Bacca has been reconsidering his decision since West Ham progressed into the Playoff Round of the Europa League with their convincing win last night against NK Domzale.
Bilic wants to add at least 5 players to the squad? -
As per an interview after the win last night Slaven confirmed that he believes his squad is too small at present to cope with a busy schedule of 5 games in August, with 2 Europa League Playoff games and 3 Premier League games against, Chelsea, Bournemouth and Manchester City. The Manager stated that he hopes to add a minimum of 5 players prior to the Premier League opener at Stamford Bridge Monday week.
Bilic shocked at Sakho's failed medical -
The Manager stated last night that he was very surprised that the Senegalese striker's proposed move to WBA was cancelled after the player reportedly failed a medical. Slaven added "I don't know any details. I'm a bit surprised with that," "He's our player, contracted for us and could be a great player. That's all I can say about it. I am a bit sorry for him and a bit surprised that he didn't pass the medical."
Ayew deal hits snag? -
According to Ghanaweb.com, Andre Ayew's move to the Hammers could be in jeopardy after Diafra Sakho's proposed move to WBA was cancelled. The website believes that Andre's proposed move to West Ham hinges on the potential sale of Sakho. We should know very soon if this story has any legs considering reports that Llorente is set to move to Swansea in the very near future after the Welsh side reportedly agreed terms with Sevilla and the player.
Hammers to learn next Europa League Opponents -
The Hammers will learn who their next opponents will be in the Europa League Playoff Round at 12-00 midday today. Possible teams they could face include
7 Qäbälä (AZE)
8 Slavia Praha (CZE)
9 Brøndby (DEN)
10 Grasshoppers (SUI)
11 Astra Giurgiu* (ROU)
12 Partizani Tirana* (ALB)
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West Ham face Astra in Europa League play-off
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 5th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
There's revenge on the cards for West Ham after they drew Astra Giurgiu, again, in the next stage of the Europa League.
The Romanian side put West Ham out of the competition last season at the third qualifying round stage and Slaven Bilic's side will no doubt be keen to gain revenge for that particular defeat.
The full draw was as follows; all ties to be played on 18 and 25 August:
Pots 1&2
Astana (KAZ) v Bate (BLR)
AEK Lamaca (CYP) v Liverec (CZE)
Dinamo Tibilisi (GEO) v PAOK (GRE)
Arouca (POR) v Olympiacos (GRE)
Austria Wien (AUS) v Rosenborg (NOR)
Midtjylland (DEN) v Osmanlıspor (TUR)
Beitar Jerusalem (ISR) v St-Étienne (FRA)
Trenčín (SVK) v Rapid Wien (AUT)
Lokomotiva Zagreb (CRO) v Genk (BEL)
Vojvodina(SRB) v AZ (NED)
Pots 3&4
Maribor (SVN) v Qäbälä (AZE)
Gent (BEL) v Shkëndija (MKD)
Slavia Praha (CZE) v Anderlecht (BEL)
İstanbul Başakşehir (TUR) v Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR)
Astra (ROU) v West Ham Utd (ENG)
Sønderjyske (DEN) v Sparta Praha (CZE)
Brøndby (DEN) v Panathinaikos (GRE)
Göteborg (SWE) v Qarabağ (AZE)
Slavia Praha (CZE) v Anderlecht (BEL)
Fenerbahçe(TUR) v Grasshoppers (SUI)
Krasnodar (RUS) v Partizani (ALB)
Sassuolo (ITA) v Crvena Zvezda (SRB)
M Tel-Aviv (ISR) v Hajduk Split (CRO)
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Corden to launch new series of KUMB Podcast!
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 5th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
The KUMB Podcast returns next week for it's fifth series - and the star guest for Episode 1 is a belter.
West Ham fan and The Late, Late Show host James Corden will be launching the new series of the Podcast when he steps into the hotseat next week alongside regular host Chris Scull and his former sidekick, James Longman.
And Corden, the star of the hilarious 'Carpool' videos who admits to being a keen fan of the KUMB Forum will have plenty to say about his beloved Hammers, despite living some 5,500 miles away from the club's home in California!
The KUMB Podcast began with Series 1 back in 2012, when guests such as Tony Cottee, Tony Gale and David Gold appeared.
Series 2, which ran from August 2013 through May 2014 saw people such as Billy Bonds, Ludo Miklosko, Julian Dicks and Frank McAvennie pass through our Soho studio whilst Series 3 - which covered the 2014/15 season - featured the likes of Teddy Sheringham, Trevor SInclair and Jack Collison.
In Series 4, which ran throughout the 2015/16 campaign, we kicked of with Russell Brand before welcoming guests such as David, Dave and Jack Sullivan, Danny Dyer, Mark 'Lawro' Lawrenson and Ian Pearce to our studio.
To listen to any of the above Podcasts, or any from the first four series, visit the Podcast home page (or click on the link in the main menu above).
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Irons fan makes Betway Cup 'Man of the Match' trophy
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 5th August 2016
By: Staff Writer
Russ Williams was raised in east London and learned the trade of metalwork at his dad's firm in Stratford.
The lifelong West Ham United supporter, then, was the perfect person to design and create the Betway Cup's Man of the Match trophy - a fixture which celebrates the club's exciting future, but also its esteemed history.
And like the all-blue commemorative strip that Slaven Bilic's players will wear against Juventus on Sunday, the trophy is inspired by the Thames Ironworks and company owner Arnold Hills.
"To be approached was a great honour," says Russ, 56. "It didn't take me long to actually decide the way I was going to make it.
"When you think of the Thames Ironworks, you immediately think of ships and bridges. In those days, everything was made of plate and rivets.
"They didn't have the technology like they have now. And I think the way metalwork was made then was fantastic."
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The Piccadilly report
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th August 2016
By: Gordon Thrower
As one supporter is found not guilty of public order offences after the FA Cup Quarter Final trip to Old Trafford, we have obtained a copy of British Transport Police's report into the chaotic scenes at Manchester's Piccadilly station that evening.
KUMB.com's Gordon Thrower – who was there – picks over the bones of the report, which highlights some spectacularly incompetent planning on the part of certain parts of the rail network….
As the fixture list arrives it is annoying to note that yet again we are denied a nice bank holiday weekend away at Bournemouth, a trip up to Manchester being the order of the day. Thinking back to our last visit to that part of the world, a report on the appalling scenes that took place at the station that evening has now arrived at kumb towers. The report was prepared by British Transport Police in response to a complaint made into the crowd control – such as it was – at Manchester Piccadilly after the FA Cup Quarter Final visit to Old Trafford.
As it happens the complaint was misplaced. The body responsible for crowd control at that station is Network Rail and BTP simply turned up at NR's request to try and sort things out when it became clear that things were getting out of hand. However, rather than leave it there, having received the complaint BTP did actually go through with an investigation. So what actually did go wrong?
What Happened
To put it briefly, once the match had finished at Old Trafford thousands of people travelling home by rail turned up at Piccadilly station where, because access to the relevant platforms was restricted by the station authorities, people were unable to board their booked trains. People were arriving at the station faster than could leave by train due to the restricted access to the platforms. Passengers were bumped onto later trains with a result that trains to London that evening were dangerously overloaded. The 19:35 for example carried 1,100 passengers on a train designed to seat 650.
What went wrong?
On the railway side of things nobody really emerges with any credit. NR obviously needed to have some indication of the number of likely travellers. A BTP contact told us that, on average, it is usual for planning to be based on 10% of spectators arriving at Old Trafford by public transport. Given our increased Cup allocation, that would have meant a basic estimate of, say, 900 supporters heading home that night via Piccadilly.
Just to be safe, NR contacted the train company for a clearer indication of numbers. Virgin Trains cheerfully told NR that they weren't expecting any more passengers than usual .Quite what this forecast was based on is not totally clear. However, it seems likely that the forecast concentrated on travellers making a day trip up for the match. If that is the case, they ignored/forgot/were not aware of one very important fact: that large numbers of supporters (myself included) had travelled up on the Friday and Saturday prior to the match in order to make a weekend of it. And all those supporters wanted to get home on the Sunday evening.
Planning
Whether or not NR would have done anything different had they been aware of the numbers travelling is not known. What we do know is that they implemented a pre-set plan that was based on dealing with a completely different set of circumstances. That plan proved to be inadequate.
Back in October 2015 Manchester hosted two rugby matches. In the Union World Cup the England XV took on Uruguay in the afternoon in a "dead rubber" group match. Later that evening Old Trafford played host to the Rugby League Super League Grand Final between Wigan and Leeds. The travel profile was pretty easy to work out. The main custom for travel towards London was the Union match which was over several hours before the League match kicked off.
Supporters travelling by train for the Super League match from Wigan would have used trains direct from stations close to Old Trafford – both Salford stations have direct services to Wigan. Leeds supporters would have used both Piccadilly and Victoria stations. Also, it being a Saturday, many would have stayed for the weekend, much as we did.
In other words the anticipated numbers of people using the railways at any one time that night were probably lower than for our match and journeys from the rugby supporters would have been spread over a longer period of time and a larger geographical area.
So why anyone thought it would work for our Quarter Final is anyone's guess.
Crowd 'Control'
So what was the masterplan that NR relied on? Well it helps to know a bit about the layout at Piccadilly station. In the main part of the station access to the platforms 1-8 is via set of 4 glass doors. In theory, once through the door access is available to any of platforms 1-8.
On the night in question, London trains were departing from platforms 6&7 – either side of the same platform. Access to that platform was restricted to the one glass door serving that platform and barriers had been put up on the other side of the door to prevent access from other doors and platforms.
In front of the doors NR had erected barriers forming a sort of cattle-pen zig zag funnel in front of the doors. This, and the fact that passengers were forced to use just the one door to access the platform slowed down the flow of passengers onto the trains to a trickle: for every four or five people actually getting access to the platform there were probably 20 or more arriving on the concourse. Which is fine, as long as you have an infinite amount of time and space to play with,.At Manchester Piccadilly, they haven't.
What Happened Next?
Basically a predictable and avoidable shambles. The concourse filled up. People booked on earlier trains were stuck behind people booked on later trains. Those at the back were not aware of the existence of the cattle pen so that those nearest the pen were getting crushed against it. NB: An interesting thing to come out of the BTP report is that whilst the Office Of The Rail Regulator (or "Fat Controller" as we used to call him) has plenty to say on the subject of overcrowded trains, BTP could find no guidance on overcrowding at stations. Which is odd.
Back at Piccadilly, NR sort of panicked. According to BTP some 3-3,500 passengers had arrived to travel rather than the 900 or so Network Rail had planned for. It being a Sunday evening NR didn't have the staff to cope so they called in BTP. It being a Sunday evening, BTP were also a bit short on numbers so they called in help from local forces, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and South Yorkshire.
In order to speed up boarding BTP asked Virgin Trains to cancel all reservations and to "declassify" the last few trains, meaning it was a free-for-all. I'm not sure exactly when that decision was taken or how that was communicated to passengers. If the 19:35 train, for example, was declassified nobody told me. When I arrived on board a foreign tourist was sat in my place and, despite the fact that I would be as much use in a fight as a Spurs player in an England shirt, they vacated my seat at the merest wave of my ticket – presumably intimidated by the large numbers of "hard-looking" football supporters in the carriage.
Unsurprisingly, thanks to the declassification, tempers got a bit frayed with passengers on later trains at least finding seats that they thought they had reserved were occupied and one of the London-bound services extended its booked stop at Stockport whilst scuffles calmed down.
Back at the station complaints on the ground were ignored – the general attitude to football supporters from rail companies and police alike seems to have been one of contempt. My own suggestion that some of the other doors to the platforms be opened to improve flow from the concourse to the platforms was greeted with the sort of reaction that suggested that I would be wise not to pursue the idea if I actually wanted to get home that night.
Others were not so lucky. One, who on seeing a kid getting crushed against a barrier, protested with a verbal force and dexterity perhaps more traditional of the tabloids' stereotypical football supporter than I had earlier employed and found himself arrested by Greater Manchester Police. After a night in the cells, he was charged with a ludicrous public order offence "Causing harm distress or harassment to a member of the public". Thankfully the charge was thrown out when it finally got to court, though the chap involved was forced to wait until a hearing at the end of June to find out.
Arguably, the actions of Network Rail that day caused infinitely more "harm, distress or harassment" to members of the public than a few choice words of Anglo Saxon could ever do. The fact that the arrest was made in the first place not for the first time raises concerns over attitudes to football supporters in general. Would that arrest have taken place the previous October, for example, had the crush involved those Rugby Union supporters? I'd be willing to bet that it wouldn't have.
Some of the reporting in the mainstream press was also predictably slanted: "Violence Erupts" was the description by one newspaper (you can guess which one) of a scene which, given the circumstances, was remarkably well-behaved. This appears to be a general malaise amongst the UK press when reporting about football supporters – just look at some of the stuff from Euro16 where the treatment of mostly innocent England supporters by some genuinely frightening Russian psychopaths (who probably thought that the execrable "Green Street" was a documentary) was portrayed in a manner as to suggest that the victims had it coming to them because, well "they are English Football Supporters aren't they".
So what next?
Well at least some good came out of the complaint. Network Rail have decided that for, Cup matches anyway, they will start from the assumption that 50% of supporters will arrive by rail and will change their crowd management plans so that the station copes better with the numbers involved. Apparently a new plan was instigated for the Europa League match against Liverpool which took place a few days later which seemed to go ok – though again comparisons with our match aren't necessarily totally valid given the geographies involved.
As for attitudes to supporters though, I fear old habits die hard in some quarters. Treating supporters with contempt has had lethal consequences in the past and it was pure good luck hat there were no serious injuries this time around. However, even when things got bad nobody seemed in any way inclined to consider listening to those affected.
For the record we did contact Network Rail to invite comment on the report but at the time of writing we've had neither acknowledgement nor response from them. However, we do believe in the right of reply – we're good like that around here. So, needless to say, if anyone from NR does want to chip in with a comment they should contact either the editor or myself – contact details are available elsewhere on the site and you should also have the address from which I originally contacted you.
As mentioned, our next visit to Manchester will be another Sunday trip (thanks to tv) to see us take on City. It's bank holiday weekend so numbers up for a night or two out will probably be quite high so we'll be able to see the new plans for ourselves.
Will I go? Probably. Will I go by train? Hmmm let me get back to you on that one...
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be attributed to, KUMB.com.
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West Ham's first night at London Stadium hailed by honorary life president Terry Brown
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 05/08/16 6:04pm
SSN
West Ham's honorary life president Terry Brown hailed a "truly magical night" in the club's history after they crowned their opening match at London Stadium with a 3-0 victory over NK Domzale in the Europa League. The Hammers started life at their new home in front of a near 54,000 sell-out crowd on Thursday and did not disappoint, overturning a 2-1 first leg deficit through two goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and one from summer signing Sofiane Feghouli to advance to the play-off round.
Brown believes huge praise must go to West Ham's current owners David Gold and David Sullivan as well as vice-chairman Karren Brady for overseeing the move from the Boleyn Ground and is confident the club can build on their maiden success at London Stadium. "They deserve enormous credit, they have made the whole thing happen and worked their socks off, all of them have," Brown, who was West Ham's chairman for 15 years between 1991 and 2006, told Sky Sports. "It was magical night for the club. It's an enormous platform for the club, we did fantastic last season and now we've got the stadium, the sky is the limit."
Gold and Sullivan completed their takeover of West Ham in 2010 and immediately signalled their intention to move the club to the then Olympic Stadium. After an arduous bidding campaign, West Ham finally secured a 99-year lease to become the main tenants of the stadium in March 2013 and set about making the necessary reconfigurations to ensure it was fit for football. Brown added: "They've done an absolutely fantastic job for the club. The two Davids and Karren have been fantastic, we're very lucky they came when they did. "We've got very ambitious owners and, with the European nights, that's the way they want to go. There's no reason to think they will not be able to do it on a regular basis. "Everybody is desperate for this to work and there is no doubt that this is going to work. It is a top drawer stadium, that's absolutely certain. It's all very exciting and extremely positive. "I was overwhelmed and I couldn't really believe it to be honest. It was truly remarkable. There has been so much effort, attention to detail and work that has gone in. It's a club to be proud of. "I was thrilled and thrilled with the stadium. I think they've done a fantastic job, it's a great stadium and we're all extremely proud of it. I think everybody is."
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Slaven Bilic urges West Ham to hurry up with new players and could use Diafra Sakho By Lyall Thomas Last Updated: 05/08/16 8:09am SSN
Slaven Bilic says West Ham urgently need new players after the club moved a step closer to the Europa League group stage - and he admitted he may yet be forced to use Diafra Sakho.
The Hammers beat NK Domzale in their first ever match at the London Stadium to secure a play-off clash, and Bilic's side could therefore play five games before the end of the month.
Bilic is still without Euro 2016 stars Dimitri Payet, James Collins and Angelo Ogbonna, while several key players face injury lay-offs, and he admits his side's start to the Premier League could be hampered. "I have no problems saying that playing in the Europa League lowers your chances in the Premier League," Bilic said. "It doesn't matter, we want to try. It brings positive things. You gain something, you lose something. "Basically we have five games before the September international break and this squad is not big enough. Hopefully we will have a minimum of five players to add to this squad."
Sakho's potential move to West Brom collapsed on Thursday after he failed a medical and, although Bilic admitted he was "surprised", he suggested he wants the player to be an asset for them. "I don't know any details. He's our player, he's contracted to us, and could be a great player. That's all I can say about it. "I am a bit sorry for him and a bit surprised that he didn't pass the medical. He's a good player, he's our player and as long as he is our player he is very capable. He's a quality player."
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PAULO FREITAS ON WHAT JONATHAN CALLERI WILL BRING TO WEST HAM MICHAEL OLIVER @ReadWestHam
Once the 2016 Rio Olympics are over and done with, West Ham are expected to complete the signing of Deportivo Maldonado striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old striker made his name in Argentina with Boca Juniors before being bought by the wealthy Uruguayan outfit and immediately shipped out on loan to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo in January.
In 31 appearances for Sao Paulo, Calleri netted 16 goals earning him a place in the Argentina squad for the Olympic Games, who played their first game yesterday and suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss to Portugal.
Calleri is considered as one of the best young forwards in South American football and the Hammers are believed to have beaten off the likes of Barcelona, Sevilla and Inter Milan to his signature. To no surprise, us and many West Ham fans don't know terribly much about Jonathan Calleri, so we sat down with South American football expert Paulo Freitas to find out more.
Jonathan Calleri is a name most West Ham fans would not have been too familiar with prior to this summer, could you detail some of his key attributes?
Technically, Calleri is a very strong player. His aerial ability is impressive and he is a clinical finisher.
Calleri has been touted in the past as the 'new Carlos Tevez' and spent considerable time playing with him at Boca. Would you draw any comparisons in their style of play?
I don't think the style is too similar, Calleri is more like a poacher although he is a bit more than just that. Tevez is shorter but also bulkier and he is also a more complete and technically gifted player.
When Tevez first moved to England with West Ham it took him several months to adjust to the rigours of the Premier League. Would you imagine Calleri facing similar issues?
I think Calleri will adapt quicker, his style is more suited to Premier League and he has a better mentality than Tevez too.
The likes of Inter Milan, Sevilla and Barcelona have all said to have attempted to sign Calleri after he made a name for himself with Sao Palo. Do you think he has the game to be effective in European football?
Calleri is not really good enough for a team like Barcelona right now, but his style is more than good enough to succeed in Europe, No doubt he would have been more than good enough for teams like Sevilla and Inter.
Where does Calleri rank amongst some of the other bright and emerging talents in South America?
I would place him in a second tier of promising South American players, behind the likes of Gabigol and new Manchester City signing Gabriel Jesus, for example, but still above the vast majority of players in the continent.
It's hard to judge now, but knowing what you do about the player, where do you see Calleri in five years?
I expect him to play in a regular basis for Argentina's national team in five years and to have moved to team in Spain or Italy, a team like Atlético de Madrid or Napoli or similar. He has the talent to play at that level one day.
And finally, in one sentence, what should West Ham expect from Jonathan Calleri?
West Ham fans should expect a determined striker with lethal goalscoring skills.
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WHY WEST HAM WILL EXORCISE THEIR EUROPA LEAGUE GROUP-STAGE GHOST
5 August 2016
ladbrokes.co.uk
Slaven Bilic appeared to sacrifice West Ham's bid for a first Europa League group-stage appearance 12 months ago after his side's 2-2 first-leg at home to Astra Giurgiu, with the then-new boss replacing the entire first XI, mostly with youngsters, ahead of the 2-1 second-leg loss.
He had excuses, to an extent, with former skipper Kevin Nolan quoting afterwards: "The gaffer has shown in his selection the main priority is the Premier League and this year the main thing is to make sure we go to the Olympic Stadium in the Premier League."
Bilic managed as much and more, with wins over Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle and Manchester City in his first six top-flight games in charge allaying early fears such as Nolan's, culminating in seventh place and another stab at the continent's consolation cup. There are no excuses now we know how good Dimitri Payet is, and how effectively Bilic utilised fellow new men Pedro Obiang, Angelo Ogbonna, Michail Antonio and Manuel Lanzini, now signed permanently from Al Jazira Club after an impressive loan campaign.
As luck would have it, they've been drawn against the same club at the same stage of the same tournament, giving Bilic a chance to show his true colours. West Ham have had two fewer qualifying matches this term, and while Man City away lies in wait the Sunday after their home second leg, as Arsenal did 12 months ago following the 'disappointment' in Romania, they will at least be a couple of fixtures into the Premier League campaign.
The Irons are 25/1 to win the Europa League, with Manchester United 15/2 favourites.
City's 12/1 odds of winning the Champions League weren't shaken by another trip to Romania, with Steaua Bucharest drawn as Pep Guardiola's first European opponents at the helm of the two-time Premier League champions.
Celtic may feel a little miffed about missing out on League of Ireland side Dundalk, but did manage to avoid tricky Croatian crowd Dinamo Zagreb and Bulgarian nouveau riche Ludogorets Razgrad, with the Scottish Premiership giants, 500/1 to win the Champions League, faced with a trip to Israel's Hapoel Beer-Sheva.
Dundalk, who don't currently attract an outright price in Ladbrokes' Champions League betting, will play Polish champions Legia Warsaw.
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New signing Havard Nordtveit excited about West Ham future after "special" first night in the London Stadium 13:00, 5 AUG 2016 UPDATED 13:38, 5 AUG 2016 BY NEIL MCLEMAN The 26-year-old is back in the Premier League after leaving Arsenal six years ago The Mirror
West Ham's new signing Havard Nordtveit has insisted he has nothing to prove on his return to English football. The Norway midfielder signed for Arsenal in 2007 but never made a first-team appearance. He was loaned out three times before being sold to Borussia Monchengladbach in 2010. But Nordtveit, now 26, is now back in the Premier League after joining the Hammers on a five-year deal after a Bosman transfer. He made his home debut in the Europa League play-off win over NK Domzale at the new London Stadium and described it as a "special night". Nordveit, who signed on a Bosman deal, said: "I feel settled in already. "Of course, coming from Germany to England I'm still trying to adapt to the football a little bit but so far, so good. I'm really happy to be a part of the Hammers and looking forward to playing many more games. "Do I have anything to prove back in England? No, I had five and a half quite good years in Germany and now I've played in Bundesliga I know how that league is and I want to try to get as many games as possible in the Premier League and also the other cups and everything here with West Ham. It's football."
Slaven Bilic's side won 3-0 to reach the final qualifying round and will now play FC Astra. And Nordtveit added: "It was a special night not only for me but for the whole team, with the 'Bubbles' song on when you walk out there's always something special and also the crowd were fantastic so we're looking forward to more of those games. "Of course there's always some nerves but I think we all were quite sure that we had the quality to beat them at home. Not only that we lost the last game but also the new stadium, you always want to make a good start and today was a good start."
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West Ham midfielder Havard Nordtveit hopeful Bundesliga spell will allow him to impress in the Premier League West Ham played at the their new Olympic Stadium home for the first time Norwegian midfielder Havard Nordtveit made first appearance for club The game came five-and-a-half years after he left London rivals Arsenal He found his form again in Bundesliga with Borussia Monchengladbach By OLIVER TODD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 13:29, 5 August 2016 | UPDATED: 13:29, 5 August 2016
West Ham new boy Havard Nordtveit says he has nothing to prove in England after the former Arsenal youngster made his first appearance for an English club on home soil. Norwegian midfielder Nordtveit looked comfortable anchoring the Hammers' midfield on a special first night at the Olympic Stadium in their 3-0 Europa League win over Domzale on Thursday.
The game came five-and-a-half years after he left London rivals Arsenal for Borussia Monchengladbach having failed to break through under Arsene Wenger. Nordtveit captained the club's reserve side, was given a squad number and named on the bench for the first team but never made it on to the pitch. But his focus lies solely on West Ham now having made his home debut on the first night at their new Olympic Stadium home. 'I had five-and-a-half quite good years in Germany,' Nordtveit said. 'Now I've played in Bundesliga I know how that league is and I want to try to get as many games as possible in the Premier League and also the other cups and everything here with West Ham. 'Of course, coming from Germany to England I'm still trying to adapt to the football a little bit but it's so far, so good. I'm really happy to be a part of the Hammers and looking forward to playing many more games.' Nordveit, 26, played in a three-man midfield alongside West Ham captain Mark Noble and double-goalscorer Cheikhou Kouyate, while another new signing Sofiane Feghouli grabbed the clincher as they overcame a 2-1 first-leg deficit at the Olympic Stadium. Their new home received widespread praise from supporters on Thursday night, but Nordtveit's main memory is of something of a home comfort from Upton Park. 'It was a special night,' he said. 'Not only for me but for the whole team, with the 'Bubbles' song on when you walk out there's always something special and also the crowd were fantastic so we're looking forward to more of those games. 'I felt comfortable from the first minute, I thought the fans might be too far away here but you could hear them as soon as we walked in.'
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West Ham at the London Stadium: New era but the same old traditions for the Hammers KEN DYER Evening Standard
As West Ham's first game in the London Stadium, it could not have gone much better. A comfortable 3-0 victory over Slovenian side NK Domzale and smooth progression into the play-off round of the Europa League. No new injuries for Hammers boss Slaven Bilic as he contemplates the considerable, extra commitment of the Europa League. A full house of 54,000 fans, with the West Ham faithful experiencing, for the first time, their bigger, better and brighter new home. There were comparisons being made everywhere. Instead of Nathan's pie and mash shop on the Barking Road, it was Jamie Oliver's Italian in Westfield. Instead of Queen's Market in Green Street, it was John Lewis.
Some things were the same, though. The first chorus of West Ham's famous old song 'Bubbles' echoed and then finally filled this impressive new stadium, just as it used to do, three miles up the road at the Boleyn. Bilic's final game back there, a dramatic victory over Manchester United, is already fading in the memory yet the old place is the scene of one final piece of drama. Next week, Pierce Brosnan begins shooting Final Score at the Boleyn, a film apparently about a group of armed criminals holding 35,000 fans hostage.
Of course, things were not perfect and everyone, Bilic's team included, will need time to settle in to their new environment. The feat of uprooting to a new stadium, almost doubling your capacity - and then filling it - should, however, not be downplayed. There was plenty of scepticism when West Ham proposed the move about just how many empty seats there would be in the former Olympic Stadium.
Last night there were no open spaces and when West Ham face Bournemouth in their first home Premier League match, the attendance should be up to 60,000 after outstanding works are completed. Owners David Sullivan and David Gold plus vice chairman Karren Brady should take great credit for that.
Yes, there were some quiet moments in the third qualifying round tie, as West Ham overturned a 2-1 first-leg deficit courtesy of Cheikhou Kouyate's double and a goal from Sofiane Feghouli, but that was to be expected against less than top class opposition.
Bilic was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere generated. He said: "I didn't know what the atmosphere would be like. I have heard the people talking about the Rugby World Cup but I wasn't there. This was the first time that we could check and it was more than I expected. It is loud, you can hear the crowd, feel them.
"There is no point in comparing it to Upton Park, it is totally different. It was a good atmosphere and I am not afraid of the new stadium."
Michail Antonio, who sampled the atmosphere at the Boleyn in his first season at the club, also declared himself satisfied with the club's new surroundings.
"It was decent," he said. "The crowd had moments when they were loud. You could feel the vibe and it was great. Hopefully those moments will become more constant."
'I didn't know what the atmosphere would be like but it was more than I expected - it is loud'
Slaven Bilic
What was more important to Antonio and his team-mates were the playing conditions, the pitch and the extra space.
"The pitch was beautiful, one of the best I've ever played on which is good for us because we like to get it down and play," said Antonio.
"Things are looking good. This is the first game so we have to get used to things. The pitch is bigger. Once, I thought I was tight on the touchline but when I looked, I was three yards infield. Now we have another game on Sunday, against Juventus, and by the time we play Bournemouth in our first home Premier League match, I'll be ready and settled in.
"This move can only be good for us. The club have the history and now we have taken the steps to move us on. The bigger stadium will help bring in the revenue to attract better players."
The only worry for Bilic, apart from the long-term injuries to Aaron Cresswell and Manuel Lanzini, is the strength of his squad ahead of a demanding Europa League schedule. "Playing in the Europa League does lower your chances in the Premier League," he said.
"You gain and lose something. We have five games before the September break and the squad is not big enough. Hopefully, we'll add two players minimum."
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West Ham analysis: Kouyate sets the tone as the fans find their groove at the Olympic Stadium MATCH REPORT: Kouyate fires Hammers through as the gates open at Stratford JOHN DILLON Evening Standard
It was slightly reminiscent of the beginning of one of those teenage parties when everybody is too self-conscious to get up and dance. But West Ham settled into their new home comfortably enough in the end, even if the choruses of Bubbles were a little apprehensive and the chanting was a trifle muted and uncertain as they saw off the Slovenians of NK Domzale to progress to the Europa League's final play-off round. What else was to be expected? The one thing that was made strikingly vivid as soon as the crowds negotiated Stratford Station and the Olympic Park to head towards the vast new stadium was that the club has undergone one of the most dramatic and instant character changes of any organisation in the history of English football.
Everybody knew this was the case beforehand, of course. This will never be anything like the Boleyn, which was one of the great, intense, blood-rushing, working class theatres of the old football world. But to see the culture shift made real, concrete and unchangeable like this was still a shock to the system of most supporters and consequently, they seemed a little bewildered, a little unsure of themselves and their new surroundings and a little dumb-struck by the occasion in east London on Thursday. Here it all was: A new, unfamiliar ordered, neat, corporate and hi-vis spectacle. Football 2016 style. Hugely exciting and progressive and yet unnerving at first for the faithful, too. It is going to take some getting used to. There are no two ways about it, even if the general and correct acceptance among the faithful is that the move from the Boleyn represents necessary progress. And that really, there was no alternative to accepting the offer once a giant Olympic arena arose from the dirt and the debris into a gleaming new world just down the road.
By the 78th minute here, though, the midfielder, Cheikhou Kouyate was receiving a standing ovation as he was substituted after scoring the two first half goals which put Slaven Bilic's side firmly in command of the tie. And the house-warming effect was beginning. Juventus are in this place on Sunday for the official opening and then, after that, the real business will begin.
"An easy evening's work for West Ham draws to a close and a little history is made with a club-record attendance of 54,000 recorded and a place in the Europa League play-off round secured. It's been a little odd, a little unsettling and a little awkward but very satisfactory too. But then the club and the supporters are in the midst of a change which is altering the whole nature and character of the Hammers. This, too, was a low-key tie against limited opposition in early August. It wouldn't have set Upton Park ablaze with passion, either. The future, however, is here and just for now, it is claret and blue."
That is when the new ground will begin to show its true colours, we presume.
A winter's Saturday evening with Tottenham or Chelsea doing battle in here is likely to electrify the place, even if its newness means it will not replicate the raw and gritty favours of the old ancestral home.
This, by contrast, was something akin to a pre-season friendly played on a warm early August evening with a holiday mood in the air. Yes, it was a competitive tie - in name, anyway, although it was a simple task for West Ham to rectify the mistakes of the first tie.
New signing Sofiane Feghouli added a third midway through the second-half and a simple night's work had been concluded - putting right the dreadful first leg performance in Ljubljana in which the Hammers had succumbed to a surprise 2-1 defeat.
There is no denying that the supporters are far removed from the pitch, which is a huge contrast with the raucous and intimidating intimacy generated for so many uproarious decades across the way in Green Street. But take it from me - it feels closer inside than it looks on TV and in photographs and it can be made to work.
The pitch appears vast, which will suit the yearnings of the faithful here for driving, expansive football. Once the crowd gets used to things and the intensity level of the matches played here is ratcheted up, the noise levels will surely increase in tandem.
Perhaps it is outside the ground, in the clean, open, airy Olympic Park, with its fun fair, its boat rides and its wide open walkways that the contrasts with the old West Ham is most striking.
These surroundings could not be more far removed from the dirty, tumbling, hemmed in streets which enclosed Upton Park. There are no big old Victorian boozers like the famous Boleyn on the corner of Green Street and Barking Road here, either.
But that is the deal, and the fans understand that time has moved on and nothing lasts forever. The whole of football is changing very quickly on a dramatic scale and at very high speed.
These supporters seem ready to buy into this new home and make it live, even if it is going to take a while to settle in. They have no choice, of course. But they know what the claret-and-blue future looks like.
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Juventus star Gianluigi Buffon set to finally play against his beloved West Ham HITC Damien Lucas
Juventus and Italy superstar goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon finally gets the chance to play against his beloved West Ham United this weekend. The Hammers take on the Italian giants in the official opening game at West Ham's new 60,000-seater Olympic Stadium home. It is the final warm-up game ahead of a busy new season for both clubs and is a prestigious event for Slaven Bilic's men given some of the talent in the Serie A champions' squad. They may be shorn of star midfielder Paul Pogba by then but Juve are bolstered by the £75 million signing of Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli and boast almost the entire Italian national team's defence at the back. That includes Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon, one of the best goalkeepers of all time, and an avid West Ham fan. In his book Buffon said that the Hammers were one of five teams he would love to play for. "West Ham: Because of the supporters: I knew the West Ham supporters during my time as a supporter (Ultra)," Buffon wrote in his book when discussing his favourite teams. "Those guys (West Ham supporters) follow the Hammers with an extraordinary energy. And because of the logo (club crest): Two crossed hammers. Almost communist, if I think about it."
Buffon will see first hand just how passionate the Hammers fans are when a sell-out crowd greets him at the Olympic Stadium on Sunday. Indeed West Ham are now officially the second-best supported club in England behind only Manchester United after selling out 52,000 season tickets. Buffon is one of those rare players who is seemingly loved by football fans the world over. A true gentleman, as well as a living legend, Hammers fans will take great pride in his comments about them and are sure to give him a warm reception when he comes to London this weekend.
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