Daily WHUFC News - 11th November 2016

Like My Dreams – Brooke's story
WHUFC.com

West Ham fan Brooke Lawrance has bravely battled cerebral palsy since she was a toddler
Ten-year-old Season Ticket Holder has a lifelong goal walking the Hammers out unaided
Courageous youngster and sister Nadine were mascots for Saturday's visit of Stoke City

Brooke Lawrance had two wishes. The first was to walk unaided. The second was to lead her beloved West Ham United out at London Stadium. The courageous ten-year-old has battled cerebral palsy – a neurological condition that weakens the muscles, affecting movement and co-ordination – since she was diagnosed with the condition as a toddler.

Initially, the prognosis was bleak, with Brooke confined to a wheelchair for the vast majority of her young life, with her dream of walking seemingly set to be forever unfulfilled. Then, following the amazing 'Brooke's Wish to Walk' fundraising drive led by her parents Sarah and Pete which saw well-wishers from all over the country raise £75,000, Brooke travelled to the United States in November 2012, where she underwent pioneering surgery.

Supported by her sisters Nadine and Neve and little brother Sam, the brave youngster has spent the past four years going through rigorous physiotherapy sessions, including regular trips to visit a specialist in Scotland and spending hours on a treadmill at the family's Ipswich home. While Brooke still requires her wheelchair to make long journeys, she has progressed from using a walker to building up her core muscles using specially-adapted walking sticks.

In May 2013, Joint-Chairman David Gold shed a tear as she led West Ham out at the Boleyn Ground. After the game, Brooke met Kevin Nolan, who handed her his 'very sweaty' match-worn boots!

"It was really nerve-wracking with 35,000 people staring at me, but fun too!" she recalled. Three-and-a-half years on and, with the support of her family, Brooke continues to work to get stronger every day, all the time with aim of realising her wish to walk. "During the week, I go on the treadmill every night and we build it up," she explained. "I also see a man up in Scotland who gives me a certain programme to follow to improve and to get better. "My family help me a lot. Whenever I need something, they always offer to help. My sisters help me transition from one place to another and have really helped me by giving up their whole lives and childhood for me. "When everyone else is going on their six-week holiday, we go to Scotland so I can get treatment."

The love and support in the Lawrance household is there for all to see, as is their satisfaction at seeing Brooke being rewarded for the commitment she has shown to her arduous regimen of therapy. The result is that she is now living a fulfilling and rewarding life. "I am now able to go to mainstream school and I love it," she explained. "Me and my friend who is a Man United fan talk about West Ham and how much better West Ham are than Man United – that's fun!"

On Saturday, before West Ham's Premier League fixture with Stoke City, Brooke, older sister Nadine, mum Sarah, dad Peter and grandfather Brian – all Season Ticket Holders – travelled down the A12 to London Stadium. "We are busy all week with school, Cubs, Beavers and other family activities, and we have Brooke's strengthening exercises every night, so matchdays are our day off!" Sarah explained. There, Brooke enjoys her view from one of the more than 200 seats provided for supporters with special Accessibility requirements. "I like the new Stadium!" she smiled. "I was pretty shocked because I thought it would be the same as the old ground, where I was sat right at the front and couldn't see too well. "The new seats are really impressive and I have a really great view. After the match, we normally talk about it on the way home. We normally talk about the officials, but I won't go into that!" "It's so much easier to get to and to get around," Sarah confirmed. "She couldn't bring her electric wheelchair to the old stadium, but it's great at the new ground. We all love it and we love our seats!"

On Saturday, though, the Lawrance's matchday routine was slightly different to normal. The family were invited to Club London, where they were welcomed by centre forward Andy Carroll, who invited them into the hallowed surroundings of the Players' Lounge. There, he informed Brooke and Nadine that they would be mascots, handing them each Home kits emblazoned with their names and numbers, Brooke's with Carroll's No9, and Nadine's with her favourite Aaron Cresswell's No3. The look on the girls' faces was a picture, but nothing to the mixture of shock and excitement which they showed when Carroll took them to meet the squad – Dimitri Payet, Mark Noble, Cresswell and all – in the Hammers dressing room. "I like Adrian, like my Mum does!" Brooke smiled, "I also like Dimitri Payet, like everyone else!"

For her parents, the sight of their little girls meeting their heroes was one they will never forget. "Words cannot describe the feeling seeing my daughters' faces!" said Peter. "We will always remember this day and take it away and it will live long in our memories. We cannot thank the Club enough, because it has totally blown us away. "Football has always been our little release, but this day has been extra-special." After collecting photographs and autographs they will cherish forever, the family headed pitchside, meeting Hammers legend Tony Gale on the way, before receiving a warm welcome from Joint-Chairman David Gold. Come ten to three, the girls led their heroes onto the pitch, Brooke with captain Noble and Nadine with Cresswell. With her proud parents and grandfather watching on from the stands, and more than 50,000 fans singing 'Bubbles' at the tops of their voices, Brooke smiled. One of her two wishes had been well and truly fulfilled.

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Cricket greats enjoy London Stadium visit
WHUFC.com

England greats Michael Vaughan and Graeme Swann visited London Stadium on Saturday
Pair were joined by fellow Ashes winner and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting
Trio have been working with BT Sport on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

West Ham United have played host to three sporting greats at London Stadium. Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, spinner Graeme Swann and Australia great Ricky Ponting were guests of the Hammers at the Premier League fixture with Stoke City. The three Ashes winners made the short trip from BT Sport's base at nearby Here East, where they had spent the previous night commentating on Australia's Test match with South Africa. For Sheffield Wednesday fan Vaughan, who captained his country to their unforgettable 2005 Ashes victory over Ponting's Australia, the visit gave him the opportunity to see London Stadium in football mode for the first time.

Newcastle United supporter Swann, rated England's best spin bowler of all-time, expressed a hope that the Magpies would be promoted and visit next season, while AFL fan Ponting was grateful for the opportunity to attend his first live Premier League match. "As a Sheffield Wednesday fan, I like West Ham, for obvious reasons!" he smiled. "I'm actually on a scouting mission, because as long as you lot stay up, we'll be coming here next year! "I have to say, I was here for the Olympics [in 2012] and it's an amazing venue. What they've done with Stratford and around this area of London is quite remarkable. "I'm here to watch some good football and especially Dimitri Payet, who reminds me of a good Sheffield Wednesday man Chris Waddle, who lit up Hillsborough on many occasions. It looks like Payet does exactly the same here at West Ham."

For a big football fan like Vaughan, the chance to see a Premier League match on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park was one he could not pass up. "We're at BT – myself, Graeme, Ricky and the presenter Greg James, but he's gone to bed – but Kevin Pietersen has got the good gig as he's down in Australia in the 35-degree heat. "To be honest, it's great to be able to finish work and just nip over the road and watch a bit of football, it's almost like the perfect dream."

Vaughan joined Essex Cricket counterpart James Foster in backing calls for cricket to be played at West Ham's new home during the summer months. "If you want to broaden the horizon of support for cricket, there are so many pieces of technology now that mean you can drop pitches in," he confirmed. "I was in the US recently and we dropped pitches into baseball stadia in New York, Houston and Los Angeles and it worked, and I can certainly see it working at London Stadium. It would be a great venue for Twenty20 cricket. "What cricket has got to do is rip up the textbook, because it doesn't really matter where you play. If you promoted and marketed it properly that Essex or England were going to play T20 here, then you'd sell it out. It's absolutely perfect for cricket."

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Woods - Scotland game holds special memories
WHUFC.com

Woods in action at Hampden ParkEngland against Scotland will always hold special memories for goalkeeping coach Chris Woods and he hopes the Three Lions can go one better on Friday night and claim another big win at Wembley.

Woods played 43 games for his country but one of the most memorable was facing the old rivals Scotland in the Rous Cup back in May 1987.

Over 64,000 fans made it a hostile atmosphere at Hampden Park and it was even more daunting for Woods as he was playing for Rangers at the time.

England came away with a 0-0 draw but Woods said the experience will always stay with him and knows exactly what the current squad will be going through as they prepare to face a big derby encounter.

Woods said: "This game brings back a lot of memories. I played in the Rous Cup and it was nice to play in that game and not concede a goal!

"I was playing at Rangers at the time and I remember having a weird feeling going into the game as I thought I might not get a bad reception as I was playing up there.

"But when it is England against Scotland it was just as hostile as if I was not playing for Rangers. All the support that I had from the Rangers fans probably went out of the window that day!

"I will always remember the journey to the game and Scotland fans wearing their kilts and showing off their backsides to us!

"It always nice remembering the journey and seeing all the fans on the way to the ground because once you arrive, you get into the zone and completely focus on the game.

"Everybody knew the occasion and that we didn't want to lose to our old rivals. There was not any need for Bobby Robson to put any more importance on it. We had done all our preparation and we obviously got a few butterflies going out there, but once the game started we were fully focused on trying to win the game.

"Scotland wanted to show that the English league is not miles ahead of them and England were hoping to show they were better. It just added more spice to the game.

"The game finished 0-0 and I remember Charlie Nicholas hitting the bar but we came away with a draw and you could see how much it meant to both sets of supporters.

"It promises to be another great game on Friday and I hope England can get the right result."

Woods has nothing but praise for Aaron Cresswell getting his maiden call-up to the England squad and hopes this is the start of a long international career for the talented full-back.

Woods added: "He has kept working hard and we have obviously changed the system recently and pushed him a bit further forward.

"The balls that he puts in are so dangerous and it is a great asset to have for the team.

"It is great news for Aaron to be included in the squad and hopefully it is the start of a long international career for him."

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Payet included in Player of the Year shortlist
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 10th November 2016
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's Dimitri Payet has been shortlisted for this year's Football Supporters' Federation Player of the Year award.

The French international is one of six players nominated for the award, which will be announced in early December.

The other players nominated alongside Payet are Sergio Agüero (Manchester City), Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City), and Mesut Özil (Arsenal

This year's FSF's will take place at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, London, on Monday 5th December. Other categories this year include Radio Show of the Year and Supporter Liaison Officer of the Year.

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West Ham winger Dimitri Payet stars in new 'survival of the fastest' Nike advert
18:29, 10 NOV 2016 UPDATED 18:30, 10 NOV 2016
BY AARON FLANAGAN
Payet has recalled the time where he realised he could use his speed to gain an advantage and also touched on why the Euro 2016 final defeat motivates him
The Mirror

Dimitri Payet is the star of Nike's latest advert, the 'survival of the fastest'. The France international talks about how much his speed has had a major influence on his game during the two-minute clip. Payet shot to stardom last season after his bargain move to West Ham, before he starred for France during their run to the Euro 2016 final in their homeland. Speaking in the video, Payet says that he will is now using the loss in the final to Portugal as motivation for the future.
The 29-year-old told Nike of the moment that he realised that his pace was going to have a major impact on his career, during his time as a youth team player.
He said: "When I was between 8 and 10 years old, I realised that I was faster than the others. "I remember a trial game with a famous club in La Reunion — it was a game in which I felt that I was faster. "I knew the opposition's best defender was placed against me. At each action during the game, I managed to be faster than him and I really disturbed him. "At this moment, I realised that if I was able to do that with this kind of defender, a quality player, it was something I have to do to move forward with my game."

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RAVEL MORRISON SEEKING A RETURN TO ENGLISH FOOTBALL
MICHAEL OLIVER @themikeoliver_
ReadWestHam

Ravel Morrison has reportedly gone AWOL at Lazio and fled to England to seek a return to English football, says Il Tiempo (h/t Sport Witness). The former Manchester United attacking midfielder was released by West Ham in February 2015 after three indifferent years at the club and signed a four-year contract with Lazio in a bid to get his career back on track. However, in the last 18 months, the ex-England U21 starlet has made just eight appearances for Lazio combining for just 159 minutes of action, with just four of those appearances coming in Serie A.
In the summer, Morrison was heavily linked with a return to English football with Aston Villa who decided against the move in the eleventh hour, but that hasn't stopped Ravel pursuing a career back home. Morrison packed his bags and left Italy to seek refuge back in England and hopefully a fresh start would present itself. He's refusing to answer calls from Lazio, including from club owner Claudio Lotito who is still hopefully he can sell the attacking midfielder in the future but is severely lacking in takers. The 23-year-old is still picking up his weekly wage which seems him earn in excess of €1m-a-year and does not want to return to Lazio and Italy. While the majority of Morrison's time at West Ham was spent out on loan with the likes of Birmingham, Cardiff and QPR, his best moments came whilst wearing the claret and blue where he flashed some genuine world-class potential. There are subsets of the West Ham fan base that would like Ravel Morrison to return to the club after being forced out by Sam Allardyce, but I wouldn't hold your breath.

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Senegal's Cheikhou Kouyate fires Bafana warning ahead of World Cup qualifier
Posted: 10 November 2016 Time: 15:06

Senegal skipper Cheikhou Kouyate says he and his teammates are looking to keep up a winning streak when they take on Bafana Bafana in their World cup qualifier in Polokwane on Saturday. Senegal were the only country with a 100 percent record in their recently completed 2017 African Nations Cup qualifiers winning six out of six matches, and then last month began the group phase of the World Cup qualifiers with a 2-0 home win over the Cape Verde Islands. "We are here to earn points, we are here to play in a final," said the West Ham United midfielder in the build-up to the Group D qualifier at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. "The series of wins we have had have been a big boost in confidence for the team. And we all have the motivation to go and play at the World Cup."
Senegal top the standings after beating Cape Verde in their opening group match last month at the same time as South Africa drew 1-1 away in Burkina Faso. The Lions of Teranga have been in the country since Monday and moved to Polokwane on Tuesday to continue their preparations.

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LLDC could ask West Ham to contribute to the cost of policing inside the London Stadium
KEN DYER
Evening Stadnard

West Ham will reportedly be asked to contribute to the cost of policing inside the London Stadium. The costs — as well as those of the stewarding — are the responsibility of the landlords, the London Legacy Development Corporation, and have risen due to the increased police presence at the ground following trouble at a number of games this season. West Ham have still to hear from the LLDC on the issue but a spokesman said: "Matters of safety and security are discussed by all stakeholders at regular meetings of the Safety Advisory Group."
As revealed by Standard Sport last month, the Hammers have set out improved plans to eradicate crowd trouble within the London Stadium. Ahead of the home match with Stoke City, the club put in place a five-point plan that included physical changes to the infrastructure of the former Olympic Stadium, with focus being placed on improving the segregation of away fans. Creating higher barriers and a 10 metre wide sterile area on the lower concourse walkway (the scene of much of the violence in Wednesday's match) Segregating home and away fans upon exiting the stadium through the construction of a physical barrier on either side of the away supporter turnstiles Permanently banning perceived "risk groups" from the stadium and issuing video cameras to a group of stewards inside the stadium

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Aaron Cresswell is shocked by his England call up... but this is why the humble Hammer shouldn't be
11:46, 10 NOV 2016
OPINION BY BIANCAWESTWOOD
After recovering from injury, West Ham's vibrant and reliable left back has earned well-earned attention from national team boss Gareth Southgate
The Mirror

It's been a funny old season for Aaron Cresswell so far. It started in the worst way possible after suffering a knee ligament injury in a pre-season friendly win over German side Karlsruher in July. Three months of anguish on the side-lines followed as West Ham were having a defensive nightmare going five league games without a win and conceding 15 goals, and all he could do was watch from the stands.

Last week I spoke to him in an interview for Sky Sports about what it was like: "It was very frustrating. It's the first big injury I've ever had. Hopefully the last. To sit there and see the lads aren't doing so well, you want to help in any way you can and of course I still had months to go. Frustration was really kicking in but it made me a stronger person and you learn to deal with these things".

Thanks to a lot of hard graft and dedication to his recovery he was able to make his return at Selhurst Park last month. You could say he had an impact. He went from putting in an inch-perfect assist for Manuel Lanzini's opening, and ultimately winning, goal to getting two yellow cards in the space of 51 seconds and an early bath.
Most fans and pundits agree both bookings were pretty severe decisions. "I've looked back and even Howard Webb said it was very harsh," he told me. "I set Manu up for the goal and it was all going well. At the time I was thinking surely not then the referee spoke to the linesman, the linesman made the decision and he's given me the second yellow card. "So I've walked down the tunnel. It happened so quickly I was so disappointed. To be on the sidelines for three months and then to be shown a red card, I hadn't missed a game in two years then this happened - luckily I didn't have long to wait."

He can laugh about it now. Unfortunately for West Ham their results are still no laughing matter and they haven't improved in the league dramatically since Cresswell's second coming, an away defeat and a home draw to Everton and Stoke respectively. Having said that he did enjoy his debut match at the London Stadium in the EFL Cup win against Chelsea and he does seem to be flourishing in the new wing back system adopted by manager Slaven Bilic. "I like to get forward and create things. It seems to work well to have that extra man at the back so you have a licence to go forward. That's what I prefer to do in my game. Get further up the pitch. Link up with Dimi (Payet) on the left and Manu (Lanzini) and Nobes (Mark Noble) coming across. It suits me."

It has been difficult for Cresswell to influence games as much as he'd like when the team are playing without a recognised striker to target but his work-rate, ability and creativity has made him a firm favourite with the Hammers fans. Now he's caught the eye of Gareth Southgate and earned a fully-deserved first call-up to the England squad.

On his selection, Cresswell told the Hammers' official website: "I just want to enjoy the experience and do my best in training and, if I can do that, then I hope I can achieve my dream of pulling on an England shirt, which is what I've wanted to do ever since I started playing football as a little kid in Liverpool. "My main focus has always been on playing for West Ham and doing the best I can for my club. As long as I was giving 100 per cent, that's all I could do. I am sure the training is going to be at a real high tempo and I can't wait to be part of it."

Competition in the left-back spot has been fierce in this country with the likes of Leighton Baines, Danny Rose, Kieran Gibbs, Luke Shaw and Ryan Bertrand all ahead of him but Cresswell has finally been noticed and many would say it's about time.
The first time I became aware of Aaron Cresswell myself was when I almost forgot his name on Soccer Saturday. In my defence it was when I'd just started match reporting. I was nervous, desperate to do well, still very inexperienced on live TV, there were two Aarons playing for Ipswich that day and I had a tiny, momentary, lapse of memory when Ipswich went ahead just before half-time through a Tommy Smith header "Aaron……." Everything went quiet for what seemed like an age, mind goes blank…whatshisname?!? I frantically screamed at myself…."CRESSWELL with the corner!"

I got it right eventually and I certainly never forgot his name again. Not only because of that scary moment of panic in front of the Sky Sports-viewing nation but because he was the stand out player that day and has been virtually every time I've seen him since. I watched him numerous times in the Championship that season and the one following. He never failed to impress me and I wasn't the only one to have my head turned.

Sam Allardyce, tasked with delivering "more attacking football" to West Ham, signed Cresswell in the summer of 2014 and the full back certainly didn't falter. If there were any doubts about whether he could make the leap from the second tier to the Premier League they were soon laid to rest. He slotted into the team immediately. His pace and presence on the left really stretched the pitch, forcing opposing defenders to work hard and think fast - he provided not only a creative outlet from defensive areas which the Hammers had lacked in previous seasons, but ensured the team transitioned from defence to attack at a much quicker rate than before. He's dangerous on set pieces, he supplies a good number of assists, crosses into the box with pinpoint accuracy, despite his diminutive stature he's strong on the ball, has a high pass completion rate and can put in a decent tackle.

As well as all that, he can actually defend, and I don't think that Cresswell would mind me saying that Big Sam really helped him improve that area of his game. His awareness is sharp and he has a composure that settles the nerves of those watching him. In short he's got everything you want. Although his debut season heralded the end of the Allardyce era at Upton Park, Cresswell finished as Hammer of the Year. Since then he's gone from strength to strength. When we spoke last week about breaking into the England set-up it was clear he wasn't expecting a call but said how much of a proud day it would be for him and his family. I had the pleasure of sitting with his father at the Farewell Boleyn game and he spoke constantly about his pride for his boy. He must be fit to bursting.

Cresswell is a humble guy from a down-to-earth family on Merseyside who still cleans his own boots from time to time and hasn't forgotten where he came from. He grew up a Liverpool fan and played for them as a youngster and at 14 years old was moved from centre midfield to left back. Initially he was upset and concerned he wouldn't be able to score goals and grab all the glory. Instead he decided to study Ashley Cole and soon realised it was a position in which he could develop and eventually establish himself. The next set-back came when he was released. It broke his heart. What he couldn't know then was that it was probably a blessing in disguise. He ended up playing three seasons in League One at Tranmere, followed by three at Ipswich where he played in 138 matches.

The talent was always there but the rejection, the experience, the relentless fixtures and sheer physicality of lower league football toughened him up, got him his move and gave him the preparation and the determination to thrive in the top flight. At £3.5 million he was a snip. The bad news for West Ham is that having been brought into the international sphere he will attract unwanted attention from all quarters. Not least from the boyhood club that rejected him all those years ago because James Milner, as competent as he is, can't play left back forever. Cresswell has stressed that he is more than happy to stay at West Ham. He is an integral part of the team, he is well loved by his team mates and his relationship with Bilic is strong but playing for the club you supported as a boy is a very seductive prospect, even if they once threw you away.

West Ham fans will be hoping Cresswell is thinking 'once bitten twice shy'. If he's not and he carries on shining for his club and gets the chance to shine for his country, inevitably it's the Hammers' hearts that will be next to break.

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Watch the touching moment West Ham fan Brooke Lawrance fulfilled her dream by leading out the Hammers at London Stadium... after meeting Andy Carroll and Dimitri Payet
10-year-old Brooke Lawrance suffers with Cerebral palsy
She was told by doctors that she would never be able to walk
The young West Ham fan had two dreams; to be able to walk unaided and lead out the team she supports before a match
Mother Sarah said: 'We will always remember this day and take it away and it will live long in our memories.'
By PETE SOUTH FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:30, 10 November 2016 | UPDATED: 11:35, 10 November 2016

Young West Ham fan Brooke Lawrance fulfilled a lifelong dream on Saturday when she led the Hammers out before their game against Stoke at the London Stadium. The 10-year-old suffers from Cerebral palsy - a neurological condition that weakens the muscles, affecting movement and co-ordination - and was told she would never be able to walk. However a campaign led by her parents, Sarah and Pete from Ipswich, helped to raise £75,000 which gave Brooke the chance to travel to America to receive pioneering surgery. Although she requires regular physiotherapy and visits a specialist in Scotland, the young Hammer has made impressive progress and now uses specially adapted sticks to build up her core muscles.
While Brooke's not yet able to walk unaided, she was able to tick one item off her bucket list after West Ham invited her for a surprise visit on to the pitch before their 1-1 draw with Stoke last weekend, along with her sisters. The family were invited to Club London where they were welcomed by Andy Carroll, who invited them into the Players' Lounge before the game. There, he informed Brooke and sister Nadine that they would be mascots, handing them each Home kits emblazoned with their names and numbers, Brooke's with Carroll's No9, and Nadine's with her favourite Aaron Cresswell's No3. The youngster responded: 'I'm shaking right now!'. After meeting the team, including Mark Noble and star midfielder Dimitri Payet who signed a match programme for her, Brooke led the team out on the pitch and shook hands with the Stoke players as well.
The family headed pitchside, meeting Hammers legend Tony Gale on the way, before receiving a warm welcome from Joint-Chairman David Gold. Mrs Lawrance said: 'She doesn't get a day off, she's forever doing physio and strengthening every day, and a day like this is just amazing to push her and show her that one day she will be able to walk out the team unaided, with no sticks or wheelchair.' Father Pete added: 'Words cannot describe the feeling seeing my daughters' faces!' said Peter. 'We will always remember this day and take it away and it will live long in our memories. We cannot thank the Club enough, because it has totally blown us away.' 'Football has always been our little release, but this day has been extra-special.'
West Ham were unfortunately unable to provide the Lawrance family with a win on the day, instead playing out a 1-1 draw against Mark Hughes' side. A Glenn Whelan own goal handed the Hammers the lead after the hour mark, however a 75th minute effort from Bojan Krkic levelled things up. The result leaves West Ham just one point above the relegation zone on 11 points, with Stoke two points ahead in 12th.

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Tottenham injury news: Vincent Janssen being assessed by doctors and could miss West Ham clash with suspected concussion
TOM COLLOMOSSE
Evening Standard

Vincent Janssen is being assessed by Holland doctors after suffering a memory blackout. The Tottenham forward suffered suspected concussion after a collision with Belgium goalkeeper Simon Mignolet in last night's friendly between the countries and "lost 20 minutes of his memory". Players are usually not allowed to return to action for at least six days after a possible concussion incident, meaning Janssen is highly likely to miss Holland's World Cup qualifier in Luxembourg on Sunday.
Holland coach Danny Blind said: "Vincent Janssen is going to be a very difficult story. The physician told me it is a concussion. He lost 20 minutes of his memory and doesn't know what happened. We have to be careful with that and talk it through."
Janssen may also be a doubt for Tottenham's next match against West Ham, on November 19, although more will be known after he has been assessed in the coming days.
The 22-year-old forward has scored three times for Spurs — all from the penalty spot — since joining the club from AZ Alkmaar last summer in a deal worth nearly £18million.

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Quote unquote: Pardew's 'When you're the King…'
Date published: Thursday 10th November 2016 9:24
football365.com

The first thing to say is that it's absolutely true. When a 'behind the scenes' figure at a football club writes a book, you're always liable to suspect they may have, well, exaggerated a few things for effect. Some stories you will treat with a degree of suspicion, no matter how funny or plausible, or how much you would like them to be true. But this one is true, independently confirmed as such to Football365. It's absolutely true.

Stevie Bacon was West Ham's club photographer for around 35 years and, by all accounts, something of a 'character'. There was a terrace song dedicated to him. There was even a burger named after him (called, imaginatively enough, the Steve Bacon Burger), sold at Upton Park. Or the Boleyn Ground. Or whatever the hell that pile of rubble in east London used to be called.

In 2012 he, as you might expect from someone who had been around a club like West Ham for such a long time, published a book. This was the story of a man who watched a football club change over a generation, and the book featured assorted anecdotes of japes with and opinions from John Lyall, Lou Macari, Billy Bonds and Harry Redknapp. One passage about the latter includes the phrase 'people questioned why he bought certain players….' The foreword was written by Trevor Brooking. One chapter begins 'Avram Grant is a miserable character'.

But in among some relatively tame tales and standard banter, one story – one chapter, in fact – stands out, like floodlights on a misty winter evening, bright and cutting through the dark. 'I don't like Alan Pardew,' begins chapter six. 'There, I've said it,' as if this was Stevie finally breathing a sigh of relief and letting loose what he had held for the entire tenure of a West Ham manager. 'In fact, I don't think I've ever known a more arrogant person in my life,' he continues, 'There was one occasion when I threatened to stick a fork in his hand. I was sort of joking, but there were definitely times when I felt like swinging at him. Or telling him to fork off, if you follow my drift.' We do, Stevie. We do.

Arrogance is not a surprising accusation to level at Pardew, a man you'd imagine is fond of a mirror, but in a piece of reportage such as this, you'd want some evidence to back up Bacon's statement. And he provides it. Boy, does he. If you'll excuse simply copying a healthy tract from the book, here it is:

'Let me tell you a story. In fact, it's called the 'King story' among those who were present and who believe it's a perfect example of Pardew's arrogance. We were staying at a hotel in the North East ahead of a game at Sunderland during Alan's first season in charge and were about to have our Friday evening meal…I sat down with Pardew…and fitness coach Tony Strudwick, who now works for Manchester United and has done very well for himself. We ordered our meals and suddenly Pardew asked us all what were were having. I think Eddie said he'd gone for the chicken, while I'd chosen the steak.

'Pards then turned to Struds, who revealed whatever it was he'd asked for. 'That sounds good,' said Pards. 'Tell you what; if yours is better than mine when it turns up, I'm having that. That was one of the things he'd always say: I'm having that. 'See that bloke's haircut. I'm having that.' He said it all the time. Anyway, I wasn't 'having that' at all. So I said 'Well, you're certainly not having my dinner. You'll get a fork in the back of your hand!' Pardew sort of laughed, before turning back to Struds and saying, 'Yeah, if yours is better than mine, I'm having that.'

'Our meals eventually arrived and Pards looked at Tony and said, 'Yeah, I was right, yours definitely looks much better than mine; I'm having that.' And he went to swap the plates over. 'You can't do that!' I said. 'What do you mean?' he asked. 'You can't just take somebody's else's dinner,' I said in disbelief. And he replied, without any hint of a joke, 'When you're the King, you can do anything.'

The King. Apparently this became a running joke, and people who had previously worked with Pardew at Reading told Bacon that was how he referred to himself there, too. As revelations go, Pardew being rather fond and full of himself is not exactly the most difficult to believe (this is, after all, the man who did that dance at Wembley last season), and this seems to be simply the confirmation of what we already knew.

Not that arrogance is necessarily a bad thing (indeed, it's probably essential for anyone involved in football), but what's presumably enjoyable for Bacon, and indeed anyone who appreciates a little light schadenfreude, is that Pardew doesn't exactly have the goods to back up his lofty opinion. After being sacked by West Ham he spent just under two years at Charlton, leaving with protests ringing in his ears, and was then sacked by Southampton before lucking out by getting the Newcastle job. His subsequent reputation seems to be built largely on his one good – excellent – season there, and as the award-nominated Daniel Storey detailed recently, things are starting to go south at Crystal Palace. Those links with the England job do look a little more far-fetched at the moment. Not that Pardew would think so, of course. It's also worth noting that West Ham lost the game to Sunderland, before which the 'King' meal took place. All about timing, this game.

In some respects, it doesn't really matter whether the story is true. It fits with our idea of Pardew, and thus becomes a story we want to believe, without knowing if it is true. But just remember: it is absolutely true.

Nick Miller

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West Ham keeper Darren Randolph won't look to leave Hammers to keep Republic of Ireland spot
HITC
Jordan Harris

The West Ham stopper has been first-choice for his country recently, but not for his club. West Ham United goalkeeper Darren Randolph has insisted that he will not look to leave the London Stadium just to keep his place as the Republic of Ireland's number one, The Irish Sun reports. The 29-year-old has established himself as Ireland's first-choice in recent times and took his place between the sticks for all of their games during the summer's European Championships. However, he has seemingly found it much tougher to make a similar impact for the Irons as he is yet to make a Premier League appearance this season as Adrian continues to be Slaven Bilic's preferred choice in the top flight. But despite the limited opportunities, Randolph suggested that a move away from the Hammers is not on his mind currently, even if his place in the national team comes under threat. "I'm not going to give up on Premiership football already," he said, as reported by The Irish Sun. "This is just the start of my second season. "I'm not just going to up and leave all of a sudden. I've had an enjoyable year but hopefully that's not the end of it."
To be fair to Randolph, he has featured regularly in both the Europa League and EFL Cup this term, so has not been stuck on the sidelines for the entire campaign.
And if he can continue to impress for his country and when given a chance for his club, then perhaps he will manage to move himself up the pecking order at West Ham anyway.

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NO DOGS NO DRAMA
By Blind Hammer 10 Nov 2016 at 08:00
WTID

Blind Hammer says Andy Carroll should reject a strategy of using "Killer Dogs" for personal security.

There is no doubt that being the subject of an attempted armed attack is an event that would shake and traumatise most of us. The Sun reported last week that armed men on motorbikes attempted to intercept West Ham's Andy Carroll in Chigwell, on his way home from training at the Rush Green complex. Carroll described how one of the bikers threatened him with a gun through his Car window. The Sun then reported that Carroll was able to escape these bikers after a high speed pursuit involving other cars in crashes.

The motive for the threat and attempted waylaying of Carroll is not clear, though the Sun reported that Carroll was driving his "£100,000 Mercedes Benz" which I suppose is a possible robbery motive. Kidnapping and bodily harm are even more sinister possibilities. The Mail followed up this story with a report that Carroll has been anxious about threats from Criminal gangs for several months.

An uncharitable view of this incident, which I have heard expressed, is to cynically observe that this is another example of Carroll being involved in another news escapade, alongside difficult news reports of his inappropriate drinking whilst supposedly trying to establish his fitness to return to West Ham as a desperately needed striking option. The argument goes that people who have lurid and disordered life styles can attract the wrong kind of attention. Paul Gascoigne is often cited as perhaps an example of alcohol providing a chaotic descent into mire from which only footballing ineffectiveness can emerge.

There does seem something strange going on. Certainly most of us are not participating in life styles which attract the attention of criminal gangs. Despite this I genuinely felt that this uncharitable cynicism was unfair to Carroll and my instincts were to provide support for what must have been a horrendous ordeal.

My unequivocal support for Carroll has now started to undergo severe strain after news emerged in The Mail of the security measures Carroll is to deploy in response to these threats.

Carroll is to employ a personal bodyguard, which is entirely supportable and understandable. What is more controversial is the report The Mail made in relation to Carroll having so called "Killer Dogs" trained to provide protection.

The Mail reported that Carroll 'bought two £15,000 "fearsome" mastiff dogs over fears he was being targeted by criminal gang months before his attempted carjacking. As he feared for this own and his family's safety , he ordered two seven and a half stone Cane Corsos mastiff guard dogs are apparently are completing their training and will be delivered soon.

The Mail also reported that the company producing the Guard Dogs described them as "perfectly safe". Now I am a dog lover. Many of you know I have a lovable, amazing, clever and gentle Guide Dog called Nyle. However the fact I am the owner of this wonderful kind and gentle dog does not make me unaware of the dangers in other dog breeds. I have the advantage of a family with a huge collected knowledge of dogs. My Sister has owned and run a large Kennels for a variety of dog for over 30 years. She has, along with her Husband, bred dogs for a similar time. Her Husband is an acknowledge dog expert and has judged at high profile dog competitions in the UK and abroad.

They will both tell you, as will many other Kennel Owners, that there is no such thing as a "safe" Guard Dog. Dogs which are bread and trained for attack can never be safe dogs. There are loads of example they can recite of dogs which can behave perfectly acceptably for years, then completely unpredictably attack even a stranger or even their own master. When discussing this article with my sister she reminded me of a Kennel User who had both his arm and leg broken after his guard Dog attacked him. This came out of the blue after years of no problems, and almost as disturbingly the dog appeared perfectly normal and calm after the attack. The dog was euthanized but the owner had to spend 3 months in hospital recovering from his injuries.

The clue is in the description "Killer Dogs". Legislation has been enacted in this country to try and curb the actions of irresponsible owner encouraging dangerous dogs. The maximum penalty for dangerous dog ownership leading to an attack has now been increased to a potential 14 years imprisonment. Specifically the Cane Corsos breed Carroll is recruiting for his family's protection have been involved with vicious attacks, including the killing of Craig Sytsma, 46, in Michigan in 2014.

Andy Carroll is suffering a disturbed existence at the moment. By recruiting dangerous dogs into his family at this time is in my view an appalling lack of judgement which could come back to haunt him.

Dogs are clever but they are not human, They obey orders most of the time, but sometimes they do not and, as dogs, sometimes have poor understanding and discretion in relation to the safety of themselves and others. With gentle breeds this is manageable. With dangerous dogs it is potentially disastrous. Andy Carroll is embarking on a course which could bring even more disastrous drama into the lives of either his family or other families associating with these dogs.

As a West Ham football supporter I love it when Andy Carroll plays for us. He offers an extent of skill of physicality which can barely be matched across the globe. If he had retained fitness the combination of the extraordinary talents of Payet and Carroll could unlock any football defence on the planet.

It grieves me now with almost a physical pain to realise that perhaps it is in Carroll's best interest that he now move on to find a more sober, less dramatic life style away from the cauldron that appears to be developing for him in Essex. Whether any other club could pay his wages is a moot point but for all concerned, including Carroll's family, a fresh start is probably the best course. Carroll desperately requires an environment without drama, where he can get his head down to try and achieve some of his unfulfilled potential in the remaining years of his career. It is with this strategy, rather than the inviting of dangerous dogs into his home, that I feel Carroll should now concentrate.

COYI

David Griffith

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Black Stars hit by the death of Coach Afrane; aim to beat Egypt in his honour
Published on: 10 November 2016

The sad news of the passing on of celebrated Ghanaian coach E. K. Afrane has not only hit the country but has struck the senior national team the Black Stars like a thunderbolt according to deputy skipper Andre Ayew and has promised that they will beat Egypt to honour the late coach. The veteran coach perished in an accident when he was being transferred from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra to the Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi for further treatment. The ambulance that was carrying him along with two nurses and his son swerved and somersaulted into a nearby river under a huge bridge on their way to Kumasi where the coach finally bid farewell to the world. And Andre Ayew in an interview ahead of their clash with Egypt in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers say the team is down with the death of Coach Afrane but will beat Egypt to honour the coach. "It's a sad news and we send our condolences to the entire family," Ayew said.
"Coach Afrane is a big coach whose demise means Ghana has lost a great person. He qualified the Black Queens to our first ever senior World Cup. "He has coached all our national teams and that is an enviable achievement. He also coached all the big clubs in Ghana including Kotoko and Hearts. We are really sad and we express our condolences to the entire family and will try to win the game in his honour, " he added. Ghana is currently in camp in Dubai preparing for the cracker with the Egyptians in Alexandria on Sunday.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News -

Hammers introduce national rate numbers
WHUFC.com

West Ham United have introduced a new national rate 03 Ticket Office telephone number
Switch will save supporters up to 15p per minute against the old 0871 and 0845 numbers
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady expedited move after recent Fan Feedback Forum

West Ham United are delighted to announce the introduction of new national rate 03 telephone numbers for the Ticket Office. The new national rate 03 numbers will replace the old 0871 and 0845 numbers, saving supporters up to 15p per minute as calls to 03 numbers must count towards any inclusive minutes included in mobile, BT or other fixed line packages.

Fans calling to purchase Standard Tickets and Official Coach Travel should call 0333 030 1966, while Accessibility supporters should call 0333 030 0174.

The Board had been working towards introducing a national rate Ticket Office number this season, but pushed for the process to be completed after Vice-Chairman Karren Brady made a personal pledge to supporters at the recent Fan Feedback Forum. "We are delighted to be able to make this change for the benefit of West Ham United supporters," said the Vice-Chairman. "This switch to national rate telephone numbers, which will be included in the packages used by the vast majority of fans, is something we have been working towards as a Board. "Following discussions at the successful Fan Feedback Forum at London Stadium, the process has been expedited and I am pleased to confirm that it has now been completed. "As a Club, we are committed to making football affordable for all, and this switch to national rate numbers will save supporters money every time they call the Ticket Office in future. We would urge all fans to start using the new 03 numbers immediately!"

West Ham's move to national rate 03 numbers has been praised by David Hickson of the Fair Telecoms Campaign "Calls to 03 numbers are charged on exactly the same basis as calls to local numbers." he said. "Well done the Hammers; let us hope that other clubs and ticketing operators who need to will swiftly follow this example of how to respond to fans."

The previous Ticket Office numbers – 0871 529 1966 for Standard Tickets/0845 174 0174 – will be maintained for those supporters who have this stored on their mobile phones or see them on any pre-existing advertising. However, callers to these number will be advised of the new national rate 03 numbers at the start of their call.

Supporters interested in purchasing Club London hospitality packages should continue to call 020 8114 2442 or email matchdays@westhamunited.co.uk.

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Westley happy players stepped up
WHUFC.com

West Ham United PL2 drew 1-1 with Northampton Town in the Checkatrade Trophy
The Hammers won an extra bonus point thanks to a 3-2 victory on penalties after 90 minutes
Terry Westley was very pleased with his team's display

Terry Westley praised his players for stepping up to the challenge as the PL2 Hammers drew with League One Northampton Town in the Checkatrade Trophy. The Hammers knew they could not qualify from the group stage but travelled to Sixfields aware of the importance of a good performance, and they delivered against experienced opposition. They went a goal behind when Harry Beautyman drilled in from the edge of area, but responded just before half-time when Djair Parfitt-Williams finished after a lovely team move. The Hammers then went on to win the bonus point after the draw in 90 minutes, winning 3-2 on penalties, meaning Westley's men finished third in Southern Group D of the newly-formatted competition. "For us to play Monday against West Brom in the league and then to play Nottingham Forest on our travels in the Premier League Cup and play again today against league opposition. It's where these players need to be," said Westley. "Tonight was the biggest challenge of the three. We asked the players to dominate the game but we didn't want to get in a physical battle with them. "We ended up with seven youth team players on the pitch and we kept trying to play, kept moving the ball around and it was a pleasing performance. Some players stood up for themselves against a good team."

The Hammers always looked the more threatening of the two sides but went behind after 23 minutes after conceding from a set-piece - their achilles heel in this year's competition. After failing to clear a free-kick, the loose ball found Beautyman who gave Raphael Spiegel no chance in the West Ham goal. The Hammers stuck to their slick passing style and equalised five minutes before the interval when Parfitt-Williams dinked the ball over the Cobblers' goalkeeper David Cornell. The away side dominated possession in the second half and defended resolutely to restrict their opponents to very little. They could have easily stolen the three points when Dan Kemp fired over in stoppage time. Kemp made amends in the following penalty shootout, scoring the spot kick to give West Ham the lead, before John-Joe O'Toole missed the decisive penalty, meaning the Hammers went home with the bonus point.

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Akinola hopes new format continues
WHUFC.com

West Ham United PL2 drew with Northampton Town in the Checkatrade Trophy on Tuesday
The Hammers won a following penalty shootout 3-2 to go home with a bonus point
Centre-back Tunji Akinola said he hopes the EFL continues with this season's blueprint

Tunji Akinola hopes the experience of this season's Checkatrade Trophy will benefit West Ham United's youngsters as they bid to forge a career in the professional game. The Hammers PL2 outfit performed very well in Tuesday's 1-1 draw away at League One high-flyers Northampton Town, eventually winning a bonus point on penalties.
Akinola returned to Terry Westley's starting eleven for the match and said he was pleased to be back in the fold after a number of substitute appearances in recent weeks. "I've been waiting for my chance and working hard in training. The chance came and I thought I did well. Hopefully I can use it as a platform to keep my position in the U23 team and keep playing well for them," he said. "We played well all throughout the game and actually played better football than them."

After losing their opening two Checktatrade Trophy matches this season, the Hammers were already out of the competition, but they started the match on the front foot.
Despite going behind after Harry Beautyman's low drive, they equalised just before half-time when Djair Parfitt-Williams finished brilliantly for his first of the season. In the second half, the Hammers again looked the more comfortable of the two sides and probably should have took all three points. Marcus Browne, Moses Makasi, Dan Kemp and Hector-Ingram all went close in the second 45, before a penalty shootout ensued to see which side would take home the bonus point. Dan Kemp scored the Hammers fourth spot-kick meaning that the Cobblers' John-Joe O'Toole had to score his penalty to keep the home side in the contest. He blazed his strike over the bar, meaning the Hammers finished third in Southern Group D, and Akinola said afterwards he hopes the EFL continues with the same format of the Trophy competition next season. "It's been brilliant. Usually in our games programme we play against boys the same age as us and in U21, U23 football a lot of teams like to play out from the back," he added. "But when you play against men, they have to win. It gives us a different challenge. It's good to deal with aerial balls and try and be physical and match them. "I think in terms of that, it's a great experience and I hope they carry it on next year because it exposes young players to something we don't normally get every week."

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From the Terraces
WHUFC.com

Fan blogger Joe Difford returns with his latest look at the Hammers...

After a frustrating result away to Everton last week, Slaven Bilic and his men were looking to make it four consecutive home games unbeaten, although a win would have been preferred to the point we were forced to settle for. With Andre Ayew back in the starting line-up, fans were optimistic as the attack-minded line up, although perhaps we had one more centre half than we ended up needing. Ayew was closed down so quickly by the Stoke back line and he had barely any room to manoeuvre, especially when crosses came in. In our half however, we had set up expecting a strong attacking performance from the visitors, but they failed to test Adrian at all in the first half. Our goal came right when we needed it, and Michail Antonio will be gutted it hasn't gone down as his and added to his impressive tally of five goals this season. Dimitri Payet whipped in a cross and the winger glanced his header towards goal, but it was later declared to have brushed the shoulder of the Stoke man Glenn Whelan and it went down as an own goal. Stoke's equaliser was more than frustrating for the packed London Stadium, and a goal we could have avoided on another day. As a long ball was played forward, Adrian come out of his goal to make the challenge, but Jon Walters managed to get the cross in anyway, and Bojan volleyed home from close range. After scoring and looking to get a second, it was devastating to see us concede such an uncharacteristic goal.

Despite the result, we must be proud of a run of four home games unbeaten, as we look to make our new home a fortress, just like the Boleyn Ground was last season.
After the international break, we have a tough run of fixtures, but we will hopefully have Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho back in contention, giving us an almost fully fit squad for the first time this season. We may not have taken all three points and our league position may not be ideal, but another game unbeaten will help with confidence and players returning will allow Bilic to make changes for our difficult games against Spurs, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool. Unfortunately, three of the four teams below us won this weekend, but we are still just three points from ninth place, so the season is far from over. For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United

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Edi eyes Switzerland debut
WHUFC.com

Edimilson Fernandes says his 'dream' has been fulfilled after receiving his first senior Switzerland call-up.

West Ham United's versatile 20-year-old has started his first season in east London in impressive style, featuring in a variety of positions and scoring his maiden goal in the EFL Cup win over Chelsea last month.

After making his international U21 debut against England in March this year, Fernandes scored in UEFA European Championship qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Norway before being named in Vladimir Petkovic's squad for Sunday's FIFA World Cup qualifier with the Faroe Islands.

"It's my first call-up, so I have to go there and keep up the form I've been showing for my Club," the No31 told whufc.com.

"We have a World Cup qualifier with the Faroe Islands in Lucerne, which we hope to win and continue our good start to the group. We have won all three matches so far, and we want to make it four.

"Personally, I have to perform well in training and, if I am given the opportunity to play, in the match and I hope that will be the case."

The former FC Sion player joins an experienced and successful squad which reached the Round of 16 at Euro 2016 and has qualified for the last three World Cup finals.

Among his new national team squad-mates are his cousin Gelson, who has amassed more than 60 caps since making his own debut in 2007, and former West Ham midfielder Valon Behrami, who has 72 international appearances to his name.

"It is a dream for me to be called by my country, of course," he confirmed. "I am going to be training alongside my cousin Gelson, which will be a good experience, and I hope everything goes well for us.

"I hope to continue in the same way and keep doing my best for West Ham and for Switzerland."

Switzerland sit top of Group B after winning each of their opening three qualifiers. Petkovic's side kicked-off with a 2-0 home victory over European champions Portugal before winning 3-2 in Hungary and 2-1 in Andorra.

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Man Utd tickets on sale from 9am
WHUFC.com

Tickets for our EFL Cup quarter-final at Manchester United go on sale from 9am on Thursday.

With an allocation of 7,900 tickets, a huge number of Hammers will descend on Manchester for the cup tie, with Slaven Bilic's men aiming to book a two-legged semi-final.

Tickets will go on sale first to Season Ticket Holders with eight or more Priority Points, with slots throughout the next two days depending on your number of points.

This is a game not to be missed, with prices starting at £37 adults, £27.75 for 18-20 year-olds, £18.50 for 16-17 year-olds and over-65s and £10 under-16s.

Supporters will be able to purchase up to four tickets for this fixture, so the atmosphere promises to be electric.
Buy at our online ticket office
Priority Point timeslots

ST Holders with 8+ points ​9am Thursday
ST Holders with 7+ points 11am Thursday
ST Holders with 6+ points 1pm Thursday
ST Holders with 5+ points 3pm Thursday
ST Holders with 4+ points 9am Friday
ST Holders with 3+ points 11am Friday
ST Holders with 2+ points 1pm Friday
ST Holders with 1+ points 3pm Friday
ST Holders 4pm Friday

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From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com

Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest update – in association with Spire Roding...

Hello everyone,

I would like to start this week by congratulating Aaron Cresswell on being called-up to the England squad for the first time.

Not only is Aaron an outstanding player who deserves his call, but he also showed during his recent rehab what a fantastic professional he is.

He worked extremely hard to return from the knee injury he suffered in pre-season.

To be included in the England squad is a testament to his approach to his profession.

I would also like to congratulate Andre Ayew on being appointed captain of Ghana for their World Cup qualifier in Egypt this week. Andre also worked extremely hard on his rehab and made his first Premier League start for three months against Stoke City on Saturday.

Also, we congratulate Edimilson Fernandes on being named in the senior Switzerland squad for the first time.

We keep in regular contact with Aaron, Andre, Edimilson and all our international players during the final break of the year.

Two players who were unfortunately unable to link up with their respective countries were James Collins and Winston Reid.

Ginge suffered a calf injury in the Stoke game and had to withdraw from the Wales squad. He will rehab with us this week and we hope he will be available for the trip to Tottenham Hotspur on 19 November.

Winston was injured towards the end of the Everton game. He is working on his rehab at Rush Green, having had to withdraw from the New Zealand squad.

On a more positive note, Diafra Sakho has been training with the first-team squad for the past two weeks, as you can see from the West Ham TV video above, and we hope he will be available for selection against Tottenham or the week after.

Andy Carroll is progressing well with his rehab, Gokhan Tore is closer to returning to train with the squad, while Sam Byram is working very well following his hamstring injury and has started running on the pitch this week with our head physiotherapist Dom Rogan.

Reece Oxford suffered a high ankle sprain in training before the Everton game and is currently using crutches as he is in the non-weight bearing phase of his rehab.

We wish all our international players the best and will continue to work with the players who have remained at Rush Green to prepare them for the busiest and most challenging part of the season ahead.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science

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Payet wins Goal of the Month
WHUFC.com

Dimitri Payet has won the vote for October's West Ham United Goal of the Month.

Payet's remarkable slaloming effort against Middlesbrough took your vote as our best strike in an October month which saw a collection of fine Hammers' goals.

However, there was no doubting that Payet's solo strike stood alone, as he took a landslide 75 percent of the poll, ahead of Manuel Lanzini's lovely finish at Crystal Palace and Cheikhou Kouyate's long-range header against Chelsea, which tied for second on six percent.

Payet was edged out for an awards double, though, by fellow midfielder Pedro Obiang, who won the whufc.com vote to be named October's Player of the Month.

The former Spain U21 international regained his place in the starting XI for the first game of October against Middlesbrough and never looked back, playing an important role in screening the back four as the team's form picked up.

Obiang collected 42 percent of the vote, with Payet behind in second with 28 percent.

Adrian and Kouyate were joint-third on 14 percent.

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Cress shares Second Chance story
WHUFC.com

Aaron Cresswell visited West Ham United Foundation's Academy Second Chance Programme
Left-back shared his own career history, which saw him released by Liverpool at 15
Programme gives teenagers a chance to combine education and football

Aaron Cresswell has shared the story of his circuitous route to becoming a professional footballer with teenagers hoping to follow in his illustrious footsteps.

The Hammers' newest England call-up spent a morning with youngsters on West Ham United Foundation's Academy Second Chance Programme at Chadwell Heath.

The scheme, run in partnership with SCL Education Through Sport, sees 16-18 year olds partake in a two-year, full-time education and development programme, with the aim of setting them up for later life.

All those completing the course attain a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport, combining their studies with daily training sessions and matches in the Conference Youth Alliance and FA Youth Cup.

The ultimate aim of those taking part is to be picked up by professional or semi-professional football clubs, pursue a role in coaching or the sport and leisure industry, or head off to university to gain further qualifications.

Cresswell told the students how his own career appeared to be over when he was released by Liverpool at the age of 15, returning to play local football with his friends before being scouted and given a second chance to make it by EFL club Tranmere Rovers.

"It's very important that these lads stay involved in football in some way as some of them have been released by clubs, so it's a good programme that the Foundation runs with 50 per cent education and 50 per cent football, so I'm sure they're delighted with that," said the No3.

"I enjoying being involved in the Foundation and their work. There are 30 or 40 lads out there and, you never know, one of them might get a second chance with West Ham and get to go into the youth team and show what they can do."

After overseeing a training session, Cresswell explained how he had bounced back from being released to spent time answering questions from the aspiring young footballers.

"I had a similar sort of background to you lads," he revealed. "I was at Liverpool when I was 14 to 15 and got released and thought the road was over and didn't know what to do.

"My Dad said to me 'Look, go and enjoy your football' and my message to you would be the same, just don't stop! Good luck and keep on working."

For more information about the West Ham United Foundation Academy Second Chance Programme, click here.

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The cost of goals in David Sullivan's world
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th November 2016
By: Paul Walker

Are we all ready? Surely we can't wait… just around the corner is another trip to the twice-a-year, David Sullivan transfer theme park.

Round and round we go. Let's listen and watch the little fat man turning cartwheels. Let's wait in line for the roundabout going nowhere and the carousel ride that makes you feel sick. There's even a dodgy bird in a tent telling fortunes and flogging dreams. Along with bags of popcorn. And then the climax of a helter-skelter ride at the last minute to make sure we get Mido over the finish line.

Yes, can't wait, can we? It's already started with a list of half-decent players we are chasing, the French legend we may sell and the list of abject failures we are trying to knock-out to anyone who will slash our wage bill.

And guess what Mr. Sullivan? Did you realise that every goal your ducking and diving has acquired has cost the club a cool half-a-million quid!?

A lot of money, yes. And I am sure you will cry foul as a few facts are twirled to get to that astonishing figure. I've been a little unkind too by tying together signings when we were skint, trying to avoid administration, and then when we had a bob or two and pitched for the moon.

One minute you are telling us we will sign a £30/40/50million striker, then your son chips in by reminding us we are £100milion in debt (to you, not the banks) and for people to realise how tough it is out there.

So there is no giving you the benefit of the doubt these days, I think you have lost that option as we survey the current antipathy towards a board who are becoming the most disliked, by many, our great club can remember - even rivalling the amazingly-inept PR of the great Bond Scheme era.

How do I get to this figure? Well, every transfer window since Sullivan and his mates arrived has seen us being promised the great goal-scoring hero, the one striker who will make all the difference. We have heard it all over and over again, and then we end up with the likes of Mido, Mladen Petric, Nene or Zaza.

Intrigued by wondering where all the money goes, I set about surveying the strikers and support strikers that Sullivan's wheeling and dealing has brought to the club. From Benni McCarthy to Andre Ayew, Wellington Paulista to Madibo Maiga. With Brian Montenegro and Jonathan Calleri along the way.

So since Sullivan's gang of three took over in January 2010, they have signed around 32 strikers of vastly-differing ability. There have been 11 loans and eight frees in that collection.

Now I haven't included on my list the kids that have arrived very much for the future, like Frank Nouble and Sean Maguire, but I have included Ashley Fletcher, who was clearly bought for the present and who has done okay leading the line when asked this season.

In all I reckon that those 32 have cost the club nearly £80million, and that does not include the loan fees (Zaza and Calleri have cost us about £7million in such pay-outs, it is believed).

Now that list of 32 have played 667 games between them and scored 146 goals. Yes there may be the odd player I have missed, and some of the fees may be a little out, but not much - so stay with me on this, because I am trying to make a general point about Sullivan's transfer dealings.

The loan players have managed 12 goals in 94 games between them while the frees have come up with 11 games and 24 goals. The purchased players have seen the bulk of the goals being netted by Andy Carroll (23), Ricardo Vaz Te (19), Freddie Piquonne (11), Michail Antonio (15) and Diafra Sakho (19).

A further 15 never troubled the scorers, and so far that includes Simone Zaza, Jonathan Calleri, Andre Ayew, Toni Martinez and Ashley Fletcher, of those most recent through the door.

So, those 146 goals, if you divide that figure into £80million, is about, roughly, half a million a pop. My maths was never the best, but I doubt that makes very good reading for our defacto director of football!

Of course, he has Tony Henry by his side these days. Exactly who is responsible for the previous transfer window activity that has proved to be a near disaster is open to debate. I noticed that towards the end of the summer, when the big names were dropping like flies, it was sort of leaked that all the players we were going for were Slaven Bilic's choices.

I do find that hard to believe, knowing Sullivan's track record. Here is the guy who told folk that he knew more about transfers than any manager. Yeah, right. I cannot believe, for example, that Bilic had even heard of Fletcher and,say, Sam Byram. So let's stop trying to spread the blame to the manager (although he has to answer for the shocking failure of Gokhan Tore and Simone Zaza, surely).

And what about Henry? He's the Sullivan sidekick it is alleged Sam Allardyce would not even let into the training ground, and who was on gardening leave at Sunderland after being given the elbow by Everton when Roberto Martinez arrived.

Henry's exact involvement interests me. I am old enough to have seen him play for Manchester City under the late, great Malcolm Allison. Henry became e bit infamous there when Allison allowed Granada TV access to produce a documentary back in the day when that just didn't happen.

Amusingly, Allison was heard screaming: "Tony Henry, Tony Henry, Tony Henry" from the touchline when his midfielder was not doing something properly. Henry must have got fed-up with folk in Manchester shouting that at him out in the street!

He then ended up working for Paul Stretford, the controversial agent of Wayne Rooney, who had more than a little bother in court over the case, you may remember. Henry, while working for Stretford, was assigned to show Jorge Mendes the ropes of the English transfer system, and an agreement was reached over various cuts of deals that took place.

That was OK until Mendes started, allegedly, doing stuff behind peoples' backs and that all ended very messily in a Portuguese court. Mendes is now one of the world's top agents looking after Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho, to name just a few. If Sullivan expected Henry to have an "in" with Mendes, I sense he has been disappointed.

And frankly, we all are with the level of transfer business done for strikers over the years by Sullivan, even though he has clearly tried very hard. My view has been voiced before; I believe owners and directors should not be involved in transfers and player selection, clubs should employ directors of football--just like Liverpool have done for Jurgen Klopp recently--and let football people make the decisions.

Of course Sullivan won't do that. It#s far too expensive when he can do the job himself. But he is still telling us he is chasing that elusive striker, now needed more than ever with the ongoing problems with Carroll, Sakho and Zaza. We will watch with interest as the transfer month arrives…anyone for the ride of death at Sullivan's theme park?

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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Affordable football, affordable phone bills
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th November 2016
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United have finally ditched their premium rate telephone lines for the club's ticket office. Back in August, KUMB.com revealed how a string of supporters had been charged extortionate fees when contacting West Ham United's ticket office by telephone. Some fans were forced to hold on for up to two hours before their calls were answered - leaving them with bills up to £40 as a result of the 13p-per-minute tariff. But today the club announced that the deeply-unpopular 0871 and 0845 lines were being replaced by 0333 numbers which, it is claimed, "will save supporters up to 68p per minute".

"West Ham United are delighted to announce the introduction of new national rate 03 telephone numbers for the Ticket Office," said the club. "The new national rate 03 numbers will replace the old 0871 and 0845 numbers, saving supporters up to 68p per minute as calls to 03 numbers must count towards any inclusive minutes included in mobile, BT or other fixed line packages. "Fans calling to purchase Standard Tickets and Official Coach Travel should call 0333 030 1966, while Accessibility supporters should call 0333 030 0174."

News of the upgraded phone rates come less than a week after the club announced they had hired Aston Villa's former Head of Ticketing, Nicola Keye. Supporters should be aware that the old 0871 and 0845 numbers will remain active and are therefore advised to update their records accordingly to avoid incurring additional costs.

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Ex Hammer earns England call-up
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 9th November 2016
By: Staff Writer

Former Academy prospect Blair Turgott has been selected to play for England C against Estonia's Under 23s next week. The 22-year-old winger is a late call-up to the C team, which consists entirely of players from non-league club, for the International Challenge Trophy friendly in Tallinn on Tuesday 15 November. Turgott, who currently represents Bromley FC, joined West Ham as an eight-year-old in 2002 and spent the next 13 years at the club honing his talents before being allowed to leave on a free transfer in 2015. Having left West Ham he joined Coventry City on a short-term deal in March of that year, where he played just four matches.
In the summer of 2015 he agreed a one-year deal with Leyton Orient, for whom he went on to make 36 appearances. However the Bromley-born player failed to secure a second year at the club and was once again released on a free transfer. In August of this year it was confirmed that Turgott had signed a contract with his home town club, Bromley FC. Although The Ravens are currently 17th in the National League, Turgott's efforts - along with those of team mate Jack Holland - were considered of sufficient quality to secure the duo places in Paul Fairclough's C squad.

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Aaron Cresswell: West Ham return and England call-up is a dream
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 09/11/16 7:50pm
SSN

Aaron Cresswell says the last three weeks, in which he has returned from injury, played four times for West Ham and earned his first England call-up, is the stuff of dreams.

The 26-year-old left-back has been picked for Gareth Southgate's squad to face Scotland and Spain this week in place of the injured Danny Drinkwater.

Cresswell missed the start of the season with a knee injury but made his return on October 15 and is relishing the idea of making his international debut against rivals Scotland.

"On the back of missing just one game for West ham in two years, coming back from injury in three months, playing a few games and then getting called up to the national side is the stuff dreams are made of," he said.

"When you start out playing football, everyone wants to represent their country. For me to do that would be a proud moment for me and my family.

"It's been fantastic. I'm delighted to be at St George's Park, with fantastic facilities. I've been here before with West Ham training a few times and I've enjoyed it, so hopefully that continues.

"I am looking forward to it. It's going to be a fantastic atmosphere I'm sure - one we are all looking forward to - and hopefully we can get the job done."

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England left-back Aaron Cresswell admits 'devastation' at being released by Liverpool as a teenager
07:47, 9 NOV 2016 UPDATED 07:47, 9 NOV 2016
BY LIAM PRENDERVILLE
The West Ham man bounced back at Tranmere after being released aged 15, and is now in line to make his Three Lions debut
The Mirror

Aaron Cresswell has revealed his heartbreak at being released by Liverpool as he closes in on his first England cap. The West Ham left-back was called up to the Three Lions squad by Gareth Southgate for the upcoming clashes with Scotland and Spain. For many it is long overdue, with Cresswell impressing in the Premier League since joining West Ham in 2014. Cresswell has opened up about his tough road to the top and admits he came close to packing things up altogether after being let go by boyhood club Liverpool at the age of 15. "I was devastated. As a kid, you are in a bubble of playing for Liverpool. It was all I had done for two years and I had enjoyed it so much. It wasn't about a job, or thinking, 'I won't make it'. It was about playing for the club I supported," he told the Telegraph. "My dad said, 'It is not the end of the world. Go back with your mates. Just play with a smile on your face and enjoy it'. That's what I did. I went back with the lads."

Cresswell was soon spotted by Tranmere and made his senior debut for the club at the age of 18. He spent three years at Prenton Park before joining Ipswich and eventually West Ham. Cresswell insists his spell at Tranmere was vital in his development and believes many players benefit from dropping down the leagues, whether temporarily or permanently. While the left-back is unlikely to play against Scotland, he could make his debut in the friendly with Spain and is determined to make the most of the opportunity. "I hope I can achieve my dream of pulling on an England shirt, which is what I've wanted to do ever since I started playing football as a little kid in Liverpool."

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'I'm not going to give up'- Ireland No.1 Randolph determined to be top dog at West Ham
Tom Rooney
The Irish Independent
9 November 2016

The day might arrive when Darren Randolph grows tired of playing understudy to Adrián at West Ham United and decide to seek challenges elsewhere, but for the foreseeable future the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper is determined to make his mark at the Olympic Stadium. It's a little over 13 months since Randolph was unexpectedly thrust into the cauldron of international football, on a night when Ireland would record arguably their most famous and significant win of the last decade. Germany, the world champions, had come to the Aviva Stadium looking to put Ireland firmly back in their place after they had secured a famous draw thanks to John O'Shea's late equaliser in the corresponding Euro 2016 qualifier. Shay Given was forced off with a twisted knee in the latter stages of the first half, and the boy from Balinteer was sprung from the bench If Randolph was battling the jitters in those heightened circumstances, it was not evident and, as the second period matured, Ireland grew in stature.
With 20 minutes to go, Randolph hoofed a kick deep into German territory, which Shane Long latched onto before driving an unstoppable effort beyond Manuel Neuer.
The win revived Ireland's waning campaign and, through the playoffs and subsequent European Championships, Randolph has been a constant presence in Martin O'Neill's side. However, at club level, he's been almost exclusively restricted to cup games, with Slaven Bilic still preferring Adrián for the bread and butter of the Premier League Randolph has featured in the Europa League (3) and EFL Cup (2), but the 29-year-old is yet to be selected in the league. It's difficult, he admits, but he's not yet deterred. There'll be a time when it does come - I don't think anyone wants to just sit and not play. "But for the time being, I'm going to stick at it. I've only been there a season - this is the start of my second season - I'm not just going to give up and leave and walk away from the challenge, I'm going to keep going and see what happens. "Obviously, I'm not getting as much game-time as I would like, but I knew that was going to be the case anyway, so it's the usual, just get your head down and get working and see what happens."

Randolph has far more immediate concerns to address, with Ireland travelling to Vienna for Saturday's pivotal World Cup qualification clash against Austria.
Ireland are currently joint top of Group D with Serbia, who travel to Wales on Saturday, so even a point would leave the Boys in Green in a favourable position come the new year. He's thoroughly enjoyed what has been a stellar year on the international stage and is hopeful it will continue in that vein at the Ernst Happel Stadium.
"It's been brilliant. A lot of highs - I have got the experience of the Euros, so I have come a very long way in just over a year. "We took a lot of confidence from the tournament and the performances and got off to a good start in this group, so another positive result on Saturday, hopefully taking points from one of the teams that is going to be there or thereabouts, would help us."

Unlike Ireland, the last round of fixtures were not particularly fruitful for Austria, who managed a draw with Wales before losing to Serbia, and are now in fourth place, thee points off the pace. Randolph reckons Ireland are likely to face a considerable backlash as the Austrians look to get their campaign back on course before it derails completely. "If you're an away team, you want to go and frustrate the home team as much as possible. Again, it's kind of must-win for them and for us, we'd like to get minimum a point to keep us up there in the group, so there's going to be pressure on both teams. "They'll obviously want to improve on their last result, so it's going to be a tough game, a tough place to go," he said.

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Randolph wants West Ham opportunity
independet.ie

Darren Randolph has vowed to stay and fight for his place in the West Ham team but he admits there may come a time when he will have to consider his future at the London Stadium. As West Ham's second choice goalkeeper behind Adrian, Randolph has been restricted to just five appearances for the club this season with all of them coming in either the Europa League of the EFL Cup. His lack of action for his club is in stark contrast to his success at international level after being thrust into the team during the Republic of Ireland's dramatic win over Germany last October. The 29-year-old is frustrated at his lack of game time for West Ham but he is not yet ready to move on in search of regular football. "There'll be a time when it does come - I don't think anyone wants to just sit and not play," he explained to reporters. "But for the time being, I'm going to stick at it. I've only been there a season - this is the start of my second season - I'm not just going to give up and leave and walk away from the challenge, I'm going to keep going and see what happens. "Obviously, I'm not getting as much game-time as I would like, but I knew that was going to be the case anyway, so it's the usual, just get your head down and get working and see what happens."

Randolph got his chance when Shay Given was forced off with a twisted knee in the latter stages of Ireland's defeat of Germany last year and he was the man in goal throughout their Euro 2016 campaign in the summer. He is likely to remain between the sticks when Ireland travel to Vienna so for Saturday's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Austria and he is enjoying his international exploits. "It's been brilliant. A lot of highs - I have got the experience of the Euros, so I have come a very long way in just over a year," he said. "We took a lot of confidence from the tournament and the performances and got off to a good start in this group, so another positive result on Saturday, hopefully taking points from one of the teams that is going to be there or thereabouts, would help us."

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West Ham players feared for their safety after Andy Carroll was held up at gunpoint, says Darren Randolph
DAMIEN SPELLMAN
Evening Standard

Darren Randolph has admitted Andy Carroll's terrifying gunpoint experience left his team-mates fearing for their own safety. The West Ham keeper, who is currently on international duty with the Republic of Ireland, and the rest of the squad remained at the training ground after it emerged that the Hammers striker had apparently been held up on his way home. Asked if Carroll's experience had proved frightening, Randolph said: "Yes, considering he left first and a lot of us had to go the same way to get back home. Everyone stuck around for a little bit longer just in case. "I was obviously not nice for him and not nice to hear about anybody. Obviously when it strikes a bit closer to home, it is a little bit scary. "I think players get targeted, but I don't think it's something that you wake up and think about every day. When it does happen, it does play on your mind for a few days. "You just hope you're not the unlucky one it happens to."

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WEST HAM BOOSTED IN MANOLO GABBIADINI CHASE
MICHAEL OLIVER
ReadWestHam

West Ham and Everton have been handed a boost in their efforts to sign Napoli striker Manolo Gabbiadini in January after talks over a new long-term contract broke down. According to Mediaset Premium (h/t talkSPORT), Gabbiadini was expected to sign a new contract which would run until the summer of 2021 and have his wages doubled, but that will now not be happening for the time being. Coach Maurizio Sarri is said to be unimpressed by the performances of the Italian international of late and is unwilling to commit to giving him a long-term extension until his performances improve. The 24-year-old striker has only found the net once in nine outings in Serie A this season and is finding himself subbed off frequently due to not having an impact on games. Both West Ham and Everton were keen on signing the striker in the summer, and will likely reignite their interest in January following the latest developments. Gabbiadini would've commanded a fee in excess of £20m back in the summer and Napoli were unwilling to sell him following the departure of Gonzalo Higuain to Juventus. His current contract expires in 2019 and if they have no interest in handing him new terms they could be forced to cash-in.

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LEEDS UNITED DEALT BLOW IN STRIKER HUNTFeatured Image
Date: 9th November 2016 at 1:33pm
Written by: Jay Williams

According to The Sun, West Ham United will not allow Leeds target Ashley Fletcher to leave the club on loan in January unless they can sign another striker themselves.
This comes as a blow for a number of Championship clubs who were plotting a January loan swoop for the young striker. Leeds United were heavily linked with Ashley Fletcher in the summer but the 21-year-old opted to join West Ham on a free after refusing a new contract at Manchester United. He has since made nine first team appearances for the Hammers but most have been substitute cameos. West Ham striker Simone Zaza has a clause in his contract which makes his loan deal permanent if he plays a certain amount of games and Slaven Bilic is not keen to let this happen due to the Italian's bad performances in Claret and Blue so far. As a result, Fletcher will not be allowed to leave on loan in January unless Bilic can find a replacement for Zaza. The Hammers are currently without striker duo Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho due to long-term injuries.

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RB Leipzig chief Ralf Rangnick says West Ham starlet Reece Oxford no longer a target for Bundesliga club
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Wednesday, November 9, 2016

RB Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick has ruled out a move for West Ham defender Reece Oxford. The teenager shot to prominence last season when he shone on his debut against Arsenal at the age of just 16. Big-spending RB Leipzig have also been linked with Oxford as they look to continue their recruitment drive which revolves around signing players under the age of 24. However, Rangnick, who is entrusted with finding new signings, has cooled talk of a move for the Hammers starlet.
"We will not move for him neither this winter nor next summer," Rangnick told Bild. "He once played a role, but the emphasis is on those who can play immediately."

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West Ham and Brighton chase young star Mohammed
HITC
John August

HITC Sport understands Brighton join West Ham in race for Hammarby youngster. West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion are battling it out for highly-rated teenager Bilal Mohammed, HITC Sport understands from sources close to the club. Mohammed has been earning rave reviews for Hammarby's youth sides and he is regarded as one of the best young prospects to emerge from Scandinavia in recent years. The 15-year-old enjoyed a trial spell at West Ham last month after being invited over to train with the Premier League club and Mohammed is understood to have impressed during his stint in East London. West Ham have expressed an interest in signing the attacking midfielder, but they now face competition for the teenager from clubs across Europe. Championship hopefuls Brighton have been alerted to Mohammed's talents and they have not made an enquiry to Hammarby to allow them to have the youngster on trial on the South Coast so they cast a closer eye over him. Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven and Italian side Sassuolo have also expressed interest in having Mohammed on trial as they weigh up moves for the winger with Hammarby bracing themselves for offers for their prize asset.

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Aaron Cresswell opens up about 'devastating' Liverpool academy exit which shaped his rise to West Ham and England
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Evening Standard

Aaron Cresswell has opened up on his rise to West Ham's first team and, now, England after revealing how he dealt with his "devastating" exit from Liverpool as a teenager. The 26-year-old has become an important member of West Ham ever since arriving from Championship side Ipswich Town in 2014, cementing his position as Slaven Bilic's first-choice left back and being rewarded for his consistent performances for the club with his first call-up to the England squad this week. But Cresswell has revealed that his football journey to his current enviable position wasn't so easy, despite the fact that he started his career at his boyhood club Liverpool. The defender was released by the club's academy side aged 15 before going back to playing for his Sunday league team, which eventually got him spotted by a scout at Tranmere Rovers. "My dad told me in the car," Cresswell told The Telegraph about the moment when he first heard he had been released by Liverpool's academy. "I couldn't get my head around it at first. They pull the parents to one side and tell them, 'It's not to be but it's not the end. I was devastated. "As a kid, you are in a bubble of playing for Liverpool. It was all I had done for two years and I had enjoyed it so much. "It wasn't about a job, or thinking, 'I won't make it'. It was about playing for the club I supported. Everyone around me was a Liverpool fan. It was just purely for the love of football. "My dad said, 'It is not the end of the world. Go back with your mates. Just play with a smile on your face and enjoy it'. That's what I did. I went back with the lads."

After signing for Tranmere, Cresswell spent three years playing in League One before his talent was spotted by Ipswich, where he eventually cemented his place in the side and gained experience of the Championship in the process. "You ask any of the lower-league clubs and it's all about discipline," Cresswell said of his time at Tranmere and Ipswich. "I think that is why, when you see the young kids getting released from the big clubs, they don't realise how hard it is to go into the lower leagues. It doesn't get easier. "The kids that go there have never seen anything like it. You don't get your kit cleaned. You have to do things for yourself. "It shows a bit of respect to the senior players and gives you a grounding. When you come to train with them, you feel like it's a privilege. I wouldn't have had it any other way."

Cresswell, West Ham's Hammer of the Year in 2015, could now get the chance to earn his first England cap when Gareth Southagate's side play Scotland at Wembley on Friday. And the left-back, who trained with his compatriots for the first time on Tuesday morning, said: "I can't wait to be part of it. "I just want to enjoy the experience and do my best in training and, if I can do that, then I hope I can achieve my dream of pulling on an England shirt, which is what I've wanted to do ever since I started playing football as a little kid in Liverpool."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News -

Ladies edged out
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Ladies were edged out of the FA Women's Premier League Plate at the third-round stage on Sunday. The Hammers lost 3-2 to Keynsham Town in a tie that could have gone either way at Thurrock FC's Ship Lane ground. Greg de Carnys' side led at half-time, but three second-half goals from the visitors rendered Shannon Albuery's late strike a consolation. After observing a minute silence for Remembrance Day before kick-off, West Ham started the brighter of the two teams, with Dayna Chong going close to opening the scoring on her 21st birthday, only for her shot to narrowly clear the crossbar. With Chloe Burr and Katie Bottom to the fore in the midfield, the Hammers continued to hold the upper hand, with Sasha Kelly firing across the face of goal midway through the opening half. At the other end, West Ham goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan was equal to everything Keynsham threw at her, most of which was created by Keynsham's former England international Justine Lorton-Radburn.

Three minutes before the break, the hosts went ahead. Forward Whitney Locke was the scorer, latching onto Kelly's through ball before rounding the goalkeeper and shooting into the empty net. The second 45 minutes followed a different pattern, though, as the Somerset-based visitors carried a much bigger threat throughout the second half. Hannah Davies was denied by Chauhan before Govan Cristina dos Santos Alves broke through to equalise five minutes after the break. Albuery went close to giving the home side the lead for a second time, but it was Keynsham who took control of the tie in the closing stages. When a free-kick beat Chauhan and hit the underside of the crossbar, Stacey Patterson was first to react, and she stabbed the ball into the net from close range. With ten minutes remaining, Yasmine Pratt converted Alves' cutback to put Keynsham two goals clear. To West Ham's credit, they fought to the end and went close through Bottom before Albuery broke into the penalty area and clipped the ball in for her first goal for the club. The home side continued to press, but the visitors managed to hold on until the final whistle and book their place in the quarter-finals.

The Ladies return to action at Ship Lane on Sunday 13 November at 2pm, when they host Cardiff City Ladies in the FA Women's Premier League Southern Division.

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Jones meets up with Slaven once again
WHUFC.com

Former striker Steve Jones will always have a special relationship with the West Ham fans following his remarkable story which saw him sign for his beloved Club.
Jones made headlines in the national press when Harry Redknapp took him to the east London Club after he was working in a soap factory while playing for Billericay.
The talented forward was rated one of the best strikers in non-league football and spent four memorable years at Upton Park. The 46-year-old has kept in touch with his former team-mate Slaven Bilic and was recently back at the Club's new training ground to meet up with some old friends....

For the amount of games that I played for West Ham I seemed to be remember quite well which is great. I was working in a soap factory and a lot was made in the press at the time. I was playing for Billericay and had gone on loan to Sheffield United. I got made redundant and West Ham came in for me straight away. Harry signed me for around £40,000. The crazy thing was I had played for Billericay on the Tuesday night and was then a substitute for West Ham at Upton Park four days later. It was hard to believe what was going on and it was a crazy time. I realised at the time that it was going to be hard because West Ham signed me when I was 22 and I had not had the coaching that a lot of the other players had gone through. It took me a couple of years to adjust to it but I was a West Ham supporter and it was a dream for me to go and play for for them. I was there for two seasons and then I came back for a second time. I was a better player the second time around but it just didn't happen for me in front of goal. I remember playing against Arsenal at Highbury on the opening day and we lost 2-0, but I managed to hit the post and the bar and if one of them had gone in, maybe it would have been a different story for me.

My favourite moment was probably playing against Norwich in a live televised game. We drew 3-3 and I managed to score and set up a goal for Trevor Morley. Norwich had a great team at the time with Chris Sutton and Jeremy Goss and it was a great game to be involved in. The other big highlight would have to be the 4-1 win over Spurs at White Hart Lane. I remember the ground being empty on 85 minutes and the Hammers fans were doing the conga! Trevor scored a couple, Mike Marsh and Matt Rush got on the scoresheet and it was a fantastic result at the time. I remember going out the night after and I don't recall having to buy a drink that night!

I still keep in touch with a few of the lads and did a charity event with Julian Dicks during the summer. I played with Slaven and he has gone on to become a fantastic manager. He has taken West Ham onto the next level. We have struggled a bit at the start of the season but that is down to the new Stadium and injuries.
But we showed with the recent unbeaten run what the team is capable of and to get that victory over Chelsea was excellent. There are still people around the Club from when I was playing including Shirley in the canteen and when I saw Slaven, he invited me to come down to the training ground with my little boy Liam who plays for the West Ham U11s. Slaven is a genuine guy and told me to bring him along and get some photos with the players. I hope Liam will be able to follow in my footsteps but he has still got a long way to go. He loves being at the Club, but when you are only 11 you still have a long way to go. He works hard and it is hard work for the youngsters. He recently played in Belgium and spent the day travelling there. There are a lot of demands for that age but he managed to get the winner!
Looking back I have some great memories from my career including playing for Charlton in the memorable play-off win over Sunderland at Wembley. I set up two of the goals and it was a great day.

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The Big Interview - Andre Ayew
WHUFC.com

Andre Ayew is determined to show West Ham United fans his best form when he returns to full match-fitness. The forward started his first Premier League game since the opening weekend in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Stoke City, having recently returned from nearly three months out with a groin injury. The 26-year-old is currently away captaining Ghana in their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Egypt and hopes to return to Rush Green in top shape ahead of the Hammers' top-flight trip to Tottenham Hotspur on 19 November.

First off, how are you feeling after Saturday's game?

"The fitness is coming back. I am not yet at my best, but it's only with games that I will get back to my best. It was a very important injury [that I suffered], but I am getting back and hopefully pretty soon I will be at 100 per cent. "I more or less know the team and how we want to play, so now it's about me getting 100 per cent fit and after that I can bring my quality to the squad. "I am very confident and we have great players in the team and great management so hopefully everything will be OK very soon."

What did you make of our performance against Stoke?

"We didn't have our best of games. We were a bit slow on the ball and we didn't put in the intensity that we wanted, but I think we scored the first goal and we should have at least held on to win, even if it wasn't pretty. "OK, we are disappointed not to get the points, but we need to look at the next game coming up, prepare and try to do something there."

That next game will be at White Hart Lane…

"It's a big game. It's a London derby and everybody is going to be ready. Some of us will be away working with our national teams, while the boys at Rush Green will get back some energy and release their minds and prepare themselves for that game. It is going to be an important game for us."

In the meantime, you are off to Alexandria for a big World Cup Group E qualifier with Egypt, having drawn 0-0 at home with Uganda in your first match. You will be Ghana's captain, which is a big honour?

"Yes, it's a very, very important game for us. We drew our first game at home and now we are going to Egypt, which is a very difficult one for us, so we need to prepare well. "I am not 100 per cent but I will try to give my best for my country and hopefully get a win and, at the same time, get more game-time."

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Joint-Chairman thrilled with Cresswell's call-up
WHUFC.com

I am thrilled with the news that Aaron Cresswell has been called into the England squad for the next two games against Scotland and Spain.

It is just rewards for the hard work that Aaron has put in on a consistent basis since we brought him to the Club back in 2014.

Aaron showed his quality straight away and became a fans favourite in just his first season at the Club when he won the Hammer of the Year award.

If people were questioning if he could carry that form into the second season in the top flight, they were quickly silenced as Aaron continued to show his best form and played a big part in the Club enjoying a successful final season at the Boleyn Ground.

Aaron's form did not go un-noticed and he was very unlucky to miss out on a place in the squad for the European Championship Finals during the summer.

Despite picking up a knee ligament injury during pre-season which forced him to miss the start of the campaign, Aaron worked hard to regain full fitness and has quickly settled into a new wing-back system which Slaven has employed in recent weeks.

There is obviously strong competition for the left back places in the squad with Danny Rose and Ryan Bertrand also included, but I have no doubts that Aaron has the quality to compete on the international stage and I hope he can now cement his place in the squad.

Aaron could not have asked for two bigger games to come into the England reckoning and it promises to be some atmosphere when they come up against Scotland at Wembley on Friday night.

It was obviously disappointing for Michail Antonio to miss out on a place this time around but if he continues to show his early season form, I have no doubts that he can quickly win back his place in the England squad.

We have been saying for some time that our players deserve the chance to break into the England squad and with the next World Cup in 2018, we would love to see our players performing on the biggest stage in world football.

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West Ham eye January loan for Chelsea outcast Cesc Fabregas - and Blues could subsidise his wages
22:30, 7 NOV 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
The 29-year-old has been a starter in just one game since boss Antonio Conte's arrival and the club are listening to offers
The Mirror

West Ham are ready to make an audacious move to land Cesc Fabregas on loan from Chelsea. The 29-year-old has been a starter in just one game since boss Antonio Conte's arrival and the club are listening to offers. Chelsea are even ready to subsidise Fabregas's £160,000-a-week wages in order to move him out in January. That has sparked the interest of a number of clubs, including West Ham who are themselves braced for offers from Europe's top clubs for Dimitri Payet after the playmaker's claim that he could quit in January. Conte wants to clear the decks at Stamford Bridge to strengthen his squad in January and build on his stunning transformation of Chelsea. However Fabregas remains determined to see out his Stamford Bridge contract which runs until 2019 despite being frozen out by boss Antonio Conte. The Italian, whose side smashed Everton 5-0 at the weekend, has defied expectations to lift the Blues up to second in the table.
He will get backing from the Chelsea board to strengthen after missing out on a string of summer targets, including Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly and Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan. Conte is in the market for a new midfielder with Jon Obi Mikel also out of his plans. The Nigerian will not be receiving a new contract with his current deal set to run out at the end of the season. Defender Branislav Ivanovic is also on the way out.
Twenty-three year old Inter Milan midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia is on Conte's radar along with Sevilla star Steven N'Zonzi, 27. Kondogbia, a target for Arsenal last year, is unhappy at not playing regularly and - with Inter in meltdown - he wants out. The Chelsea boss also wants more depth in defence despite not conceding a goal since the 3-0 defeat at Arsenal on September 24. Although Kurt Zouma is set to return after the international break after ten months out with a knee injury, Conte still wants to add a centre-half and left-back. However, his hopes of prising Leonardo Bonucci away from Juventus look doomed after the 29-year-old said: "I feel I have the Juve shirt sewn to my body because I breathe it every day, but wearing the national shirt is also an honour. "I will give all I have got to improve my qualities and be important for Juve and for the national team. "Juve have always been my dream. I always supported them."

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James Collins pulls out of Wales squad ahead of World Cup Qualifier
By Claire Bloomfield
Last Updated: 08/11/16 12:28pm
SSN

West Ham defender James Collins has withdrawn from the Wales squad ahead of Saturday's World Cup Qualifier against Serbia. The 33-year-old is thought to have suffered a calf strain and leaves manager Chris Coleman with a defensive headache with Tottenham's Ben Davies also ruled out of the game in Cardiff. The Hammers centre-back would have been favourite to replace Davies in Wales' three-man defence but pulled out of the squad when they met on Monday night. Collins, who has won 50 caps for his country, has been replaced in the squad by MK Dons defender Joe Walsh. Tottenham's Davies picked up a knock in the Champions League last week and Bristol City's Adam Matthews has stepped up in his absence. Wales sit third in Group D of World Cup European qualifying after picking up five points from their opening three games. Wales have lost the two previous games they have played against Serbia, including a 6-1 thrashing in September 2012.

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?Justice for West Ham supporters in London Stadium Block 114
By Essex Chronicle | Posted: November 08, 2016
By Ollie Knight

Hammers fan and Essex Live columnist Ollie Knight wants to know why those in Block 114 at the London Stadium are being moved and treated different from everyone else.
Saturday's encounter with Stoke was hailed by West Ham CEO Karren Brady for having 'no violent clashes', but a number of supporters still went away with feelings of frustration, anguish and disillusionment at what happened in the stands. The game itself hardly pulled up any trees, a 1-1 draw was probably a fair result after a decidedly poor 90 minutes where neither side looked like grabbing all three points.
And although no skirmishes were reported, season ticket holders previously occupying block 114 of the London Stadium will beg to differ. In the lead up to Saturday's game a letter was sent to season ticket holders in block 114, explaining that they would have to be moved to block 127 as a result of increased segregation between home and away fans.
Bizarrely, these supporters were placed behind the goal in the Sir Trevor Brooking stand, directly next to visiting supporters. Not only was this move a recipe for further crowd trouble, but unofficial 'snatch squads' were employed and tensions rose just before the half-hour mark when they proceeded to walk down the aisles instructing the former block 114 supporters to sit down. They were subsequently backed up by the Metropolitan Police, who looked as though they expected crowd trouble from the West Ham fans, overlooking confrontations between Stoke City supporters and stewards in the upper-tier.
Even though it is only a minority of season-ticket holders who have been affected, it is completely unreasonable to treat loyal supporters in such a way, they paid for their seat at the start of the season and have a right to occupy the seat they have paid for. If persistent-standing is the issue, then why were snatch squads not employed in block 113 and 112? Or even the Bobby Moore lower tier. It seems as though these particular fans from 114 were targeted with the intention of confrontation or worse.
With all of the drama on the pitch this season, West Ham simply can't afford to create more problems off it. The 2-1 League Cup victory against Chelsea was the first time a real atmosphere had been created in the new ground, so why on Earth would someone make the decision to break up the standing sections and force half of them to sit down. The decision to deliberately target those in block 127 also breaks the Stadium's code of conduct, which states: "Guests have a right to expect an environment where: "Guests will be treated in a consistent, professional and courteous manner by all venue personnel."
The atmosphere was flat again on Saturday, and it comes as no surprise after the seating-changes. Whether it was the LLDC (London Legacy Development Corporation) or Karren Brady who made the decision to move and target supporters remains unclear, but all we can do is hope that these problems are suitably addressed before the visit of north-London rivals Arsenal in just under one month's time.

Follow Ollie on Twitter @OllieKnight_

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Zaza: 'Napoli in motion'
By Football Italia staff

A member of Simone Zaza's entourage told Italian radio that "something is in motion" for the West Ham striker's move to Napoli. It is well known that the Partenopei are seeking a new centre-forward in the January transfer window, as Arkadiusz Milik is recovering from a ruptured ACL and Manolo Gabbiadini has so far failed to impress in that role. "Something is definitely there and something is in motion," the unnamed member of Zaza's entourage told Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli reporters. This suggest there is a negotiation in progress for the Italy international, who is technically still owned by Juventus. West Ham would have to buy Zaza for €20m once he reaches 14 appearances for the club. So far he has nine in all competition, without scoring a single goal. According to Calciomercato.it, the Hammers intend to either activate the clause and then sell him on to Napoli for around €20m or send Zaza back to Juventus early, paying just the €5m loan fee. It's possible Napoli will try to include Gabbiadini in any potential swap deal with West Ham.

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