Loanee round-up
WHUFC.com
West Ham United loanee Enner Valencia was in Merseyside derby action for Everton on Monday evening. The Ecuadorean forward started and played for 73 minutes on the right wing for the Toffees, who lost out 1-0 to Sadio Mane's added-time winner at Goodison Park.
On a season-long loan with the Blues, Valencia has made ten appearances for Ronald Koeman's side, starting three times.
In League One, Josh Cullen produced an impressive display at Bradford City drew 1-1 at Walsall, for whom fellow Hammers loanee George Dobson was an unused substitute. The Bantams sit fourth in the table.
In the same division, Lewis Page started and completed the full 90 minutes as Coventry City were defeated 2-1 by second-place Sheffield United at the Ricoh Arena. The Sky Blues sit 23rd.
Elsewhere, Reece Burke was an unused substitute as struggling Wigan Athletic slumped to a fifth straight Championship defeat, losing 3-2 at home to Ipswich Town.
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The Big Interview - Mark Noble
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble believes West Ham United's fortune is no longer hiding after helping his side secure seven Premier League points in the space of seven days. The Hammers sat 18th and inside the relegation zone ahead of their trip to Liverpool on Sunday 11 December, but a 2-2 draw there, followed by 1-0 home wins over Burnley and Hull City have taken them up five places and five points clear of the bottom three. Noble netted the winner in those two victories and it targeting a third straight success when Slaven Bilic's side head for struggling Swansea City on Boxing Day.
Mark, how do you reflect on Saturday's 1-0 win over Hull City a few days on?
"We managed to win and that's all that mattered, to be honest. We need another three points after Wednesday and we got that. We know they hit the post a few times, but we did on Wednesday and that sort of thing evens itself out over the season."
Hull gave you a good game, didn't they?
"Yes, but that's the Premier League and you know you're going to get a tough game every time you go out on the field. "The last two games, Burnley and Hull at home, have been massive tests but we got two wins and two clean sheets and that was massive."
You were the man for the big moment with both winning goals…
"I have taken that many penalties now that it's become a comfortable position for me. I know what to expect and with the amount I've taken, I'm going to miss a few. "There are a lot worse things happening out there in the world than taking a penalty. Luckily enough I had one saved in the week and it came back to me and I managed to score, then I was successful with the second one.
You nearly got a second goal against Hull, too, heading against your own post!
"Yeah, but to be honest, that's the sort of luck we haven't been getting. I was trying to block their cross and hit my own post, but the ball came back out and we managed to clear it, so it was a massive, massive day for us."
It's not quite flowing yet, is it?
"No, but points breed confidence and in the position we were in, we couldn't have a lot of confidence because we hadn't won a lot of games. "It's starting to come back for us. Dimi could have had a couple of goals on Saturday with a shot blocked and their 'keeper saving one. "Hopefully with me heading it onto the post and scoring the penalty our luck is changing a little bit."
What are the prospects for the Hammers for the remainder of the season?
"We didn't start the season the best, we know that, but last week was massive for us because it moved us up the Premier League table. "We've got another two games that we need to go and get points from. Points breed confidence and it seems to be getting a lot better. "If you'd said we'd have got seven points before Liverpool away and two tough games at home, I'd have taken that, even if our fans probably expected us to win the two home games. "Now, with those wins under our belts we can go to Swansea on Boxing Day with more confidence and look forward to getting some more points on the board. "If we can win there, we'd be on 20-plus points and if we can keep up the momentum by winning games, no matter how we win them, we can go into the New Year and the second part of the season will be a lot more comfortable and the players can start enjoying themselves."
Finally, you met your old pal James Corden again on Saturday!
"Yes, he's a top man. He's done great for himself and has become a big star over in Los Angeles with The Late Late Show. "I must say I'm not sure about the style he's picked up since he moved over there, though. His trainers were a bit flash for my liking! "On a serious note, it's always good to have James supporting us."
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Like My Dreams - Owen's Story
WHUFC.com
It has been a hugely challenging year for Owen Richards and his family.
The 14-year-old has a lifelong developmental condition named autism nonverbal, which means he is unable to communicate via speech, and was also diagnosed with diabetes while on holiday in early 2016.
Living with autism nonverbal can make understanding and relating to other people hard for Owen, who communicates using sign language and by typing messages on his iPad, while everyday family, school and social life are also more difficult.
Despite those challenges, and the need to regulate his blood sugar level on a daily basis, Owen is making progress with the help of therapy provided by his family, school and healthcare professionals.
Aunt Amanda, a postwoman who lives in East Ham, nominated Owen for his Like My Dreams experience after introducing him to West Ham United in 2014.
Already a football fan, Owen had attended matches with his Liverpool-supporting mother Jackie, but Amanda was determined that he would follow the family tradition by following the Hammers.
Two years later, he is an avid Hammer, watches home and away matches with his family, and this month was given the opportunity to lead the team out before the Premier League game against Burnley at London Stadium.
"It's a dream come true for me, being his auntie, with the year that Owen has had, I can't believe this has actually happened to him," she said.
"West Ham United is something which makes things easier for Owen and easier for us as a family. He thoroughly enjoys coming to the games and is well into it.
"We first took him to Celtic Park, then to Anfield and then, two years ago, when West Ham announced it would be the last season at Upton Park, I asked Jackie if I could convert him to West Ham and it was a very, very emotional time for the whole family going back there.
"I have been supporting West Ham since 1980 and used to go all the time with my Mum, and ever since we started taking Owen, he watches the games either live or on TV, watches Match of the Day with his step-dad, or goes on his iPad the next day to re-watch them. He absolutely loves it!"
Owen receives regular treatment for his diabetes and, with the help of his little sister Paula, has learned to take his own blood sugar levels and eat and drink the right things to keep that level regulated.
"I can't forget how close we came to actually losing him," Amanda explained. "The Newham medical team who help him to deal with his diabetes have been absolutely brilliant, because if it wasn't for them he wouldn't be as good at dealing with his diabetes as he is."
For mother Jackie, caring for her children and helping Owen to live the most-fulfilling life possible are her twin aims every single day.
"It has been a challenge but I couldn't be prouder than I am of Owen," Jackie confirmed. "For an autistic nonverbal child, he is brilliant, because to be able to do what he can do is unbelievable.
"Owen has high-functioning autism, he's nonverbal and he finds it very frustrating. He has learning difficulties, but he has attended brilliant schools. It is hard dealing with his tantrums, which are the result of frustration because he can't speak, but on the whole Owen is a lot better than he could be and he copes with it really well.
"I can't thank the medical staff and his key worker at school for helping him to deal with his diabetes. He has four injections a day and he knows what to do if his blood sugar level is too low or too high.
"He has done so well and it's thanks to everyone who helps him, from Paula, who is my eyes when I'm not in the room, and the whole family. It's an all-round effort."
For Jackie, seeing her son enjoy watching West Ham with her husband and sister-in-law was a dream come true.
"Owen being into football has proved that he can read because he goes through the teams every weekend and picks the ones he thinks will win," she confirmed. "It gives us an interest as a family because his step-dad is football-mad. Owen loves his football.
"Seeing Owen leading the team out was a proud moment for me. I am always proud of him, but seeing him be mascot for West Ham made me the proudest Mum in the world."
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER ROUND UP: ALL THE NEWS HERE.
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 DECEMBER 2016 AT 2:25PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
So we sit here with six points from the two games against Burnley and Hull and that is exactly what the doctor ordered to get our season up and running. It is a results business and we needed those results although the performances need to be improved massively. Had we been playing a much better team than Hull (who I think are the worst team in the league) we would have been battered and rightly so, the post deserved the man of the match award.
I thought Antonio had a good game and worked his heart out up the flank. Noble also was more on his game and I feel it is games against the likes of Hull who have arrived for a battle when we need him most. I also think Winston Reid is coming back to his Hammer of the Year best which has been pleasing to see. Randolph had another solid performance and for me he has to remain the number one for the time being.
It is that time of year where my workload as a West Ham blogger gets massively increased and alongside the stress of it too. You will find a load of "new ITKs" who suddenly decide to emerge for the window and then disappear afterwards. You will get all the "agents" suddenly revealing all the news too. You know those with the cartoon picture and the original name of "Agent Dave" "Agent Peter" "Agent Derek" none of whom are actually registered agents either. The other type are the non-creditors. Those that take other people's news (mine mainly ha) and change a few words or add a bit more detail and claim to be in the know. The frustration is that two of the bigger West Ham blogs have categorically told their writers not to credit me (because of their various agendas) and will wait till another site/paper has copied and quote them instead. The final problem and I am sorry to moan is what is known as "Football Twitter Rustlers" mainly a bunch of teenagers without much to do in their lives who decide to "rustle(wind up)" bigger accounts. So they will wait for something I say to not happen for various reasons and then start with the fraud comments. I know it is my own fault I have positioned myself in this field but I think maybe old age is creeping up with me and I prefer other things associated with the account like the radio show and our events than this anymore. That said I will still continue to do what I tried to do from the start and bring reliable news to the fans. I know that I will not always be right as I do not have as direct line to Mr Sullivan, the only man who knows exactly what is going on minute by minute but I will do my best. Anyway rant over, here is what I know so far about the window.
As I have said for many months now, we want proven players to join us in January and no major gambles (Although knowing David Sullivan as I do, I wouldn't be surprised of another South American player turning up at some point). We have approached many of the big clubs to get a run down on their player availability. Chelsea have been the main target with a loan for Bathsuayi the number one choice. It has been made clear to us that Chelsea are not looking to loan the player as they do not have many options in the forward department. Batshuayi is apparently keen for first team football and Chelsea will only consider loaning him out if the player himself asks to go on loan. Batshuayi is reluctant to do this because whilst he wants first team football he doesn't want to rock the boat and upset his currently employers. It will be interested to see how much game time he gets with Costa now suspended. West Ham hope that we can change his mind set. We would also like to sign Ivanovic but this seems more likely in the summer when his contract is up as Chelsea are still using him as back up. Begovic is another we have looked at bringing in and again this is more likely to be in the summer where either Adrian or Randolph could be sacrificed. We are also keen on Loftus-Cheek but Chelsea will only loan him if he is guaranteed to have regular starting 11 football (something we may not be able to do) and another player out of contract in the summer Solanke could join. We have scouted him a number of times and it is unclear yet whether we will make a move.
We have been in contact with Liverpool too. This time the main target is Sturridge but again it appears he may be still required at his current club. Flanagan at right back is another potential option but his injury record and unsuccessful loan at Burnley may put us of.
At Manchester United there is Fellani who should be available and again could be someone that we would move for although many big clubs are also in for him from abroad. There is some interest in the player and he is open to a move to East London get more regular games. Although both are very unlikely Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford have also been identified for potential loan moves. We would face a lot of competition and it would be tough to pull these signings off but they could be considered. Chris Smalling is another potential signing from the Manchester club and he can play in the desired right back position.
Then you look at Manchester City there isn't really anyone at the moment who is likely to be available in the positions that we want from them with their injury problems. We would be keen on Giroud from Arsenal but whether he is available or wants to come to us is not known at this stage. We could also look at their right backs, former hammer Carl Jenkinson and Debuchy although injuries are a concern with the later. There is some talk that we could move for Spurs right back Kieran Trippier who has barely featured for them since joining them from Burnley but Spurs don't tend to like to do business with us and we would have to move past that obstacle.
It is obvious but a right back and a forward or two are the main positions we want to sign in. Iorfa of Wolves has come to the attention and there is some talk that Glen Johnson could be available as well. There has been couple of foreign right backs identified one from the French league and one from the German league but this is not our preferred strategy.
As far as forwards go all of the above would be targets. There is a chance we could take a gamble on Berahino of WBA. He is out of contract in the summer and could therefore be bought for a cut down fee or a loan until then possibly. He has the same agent as Reece Oxford and now that Reece has agreed to stay at the club, his agent could try to bring the out of favour forward to club. The club would be keen on Defoe but it is unlikely that Sunderland would sell him to us as we are a relegation rival.
There are a few foreign alternatives that we spoke about in an article yesterday but after all the failures this summer they will only be considered if a domestic signing cannot be made.
As I have been reporting for a few weeks now (breaking news on another site yesterday) we will look to get rid of a number of players. The obvious ones are Calleri who is back in South America and an injured Tore who is unlikely to be fit enough to play again this season, both may have their loans terminated. The same can be said for Zaza who is unlikely to be here in January with Italian and Spanish teams looking to take him off our hands. Arbeloa has never really seen eye to eye with the manager since being here and he is another that is likely to be allowed to leave. Zaragoza and a couple of other Spanish teams are keen. Feghouli could also be allowed to leave. He is unhappy with his playing time and it is likely that he will be allowed to move on loan during this window.
There have been rumours that Obiang and Payet could leave. Obiang is happy at the club and has finally convinced Bilic he should be a key player and Pedro realises that he is now a very valued. He is likely to want to remain at the club. The other player who I believe will stay is Payet. He has been reported as saying in the press that he would consider various clubs. Those clubs, whilst being keen on him, are unlikely to meet our price tag this window and the club wants to turn down all offers. I do believe however that depending on how this season goes Payet could consider his future in the summer.
A number of youngsters are knocking on the first team door and should be offered new longer term deals like we reported on Reece Oxford. Martinez has impressed massively in the development squad and Bilic is considering using him on the bench over the Christmas period and possibly more against Manchester City in the cup. Reece Oxford is expected to feature a lot more now he has signed the deal and is on the road to injury recovery. Some youngsters will go out on loan with Marcus Browne looking likely to be one of the first with Coventry a likely destination.
You may have seen on the website that we have Alvin Martin as our special guest at the next VIP event on the 2nd of January. It is expected to sell out as we have had massive interest. Tickets to this event would make a really great Christmas present and would also help to kick off the new year in style. We shall have an excellent raffle with prizes and I hope to see you all at the event! I will either give the odd transfer update verbally to those who are starting to know who I am or get Wardy to do a little announcement during the event too. You can buy tickets here: bit.ly/2hewqo4
Tune into the radio show tomorrow to hear out Christmas special and our predictions for the festive period and watch Evan's YouTube video where he reflects on this transfer column. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and would like to say since I have started my account (4 years ago on Xmas Eve) I have met so many quality people and hope to continue to do so for years to come. COYI
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West Ham United welcome TransferMate
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce global payments company TransferMate as the Club's Official Payments partner.
The agreement will see TransferMate operate as the Club's exclusive foreign currency provider for all relevant services relating to foreign exchange payments, including player transfer transactions.
TransferMate's partnership will include the utilisation of various Club platforms, both digitally and at London Stadium, to drive brand awareness globally and grow new business via the West Ham United fanbase, corporate membership, partnership network and companies based in London's financial district.
Launched in 2010, TransferMate offer the smartest solution for businesses worldwide to both send and receive international payments.
Using an online platform and global banking infrastructure, TransferMate virtually eliminate the cost of sending international payments by collecting and sending payments using their own local bank networks. Clients benefit from better exchange rates, lower bank transfer fees and direct integration into their back end accounting systems.
TransferMate now employ over 165 staff in offices across Europe, North America and Australasia and have won several major awards globally for providing both clients and partners with innovative payment solutions.
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "I am thrilled to welcome TransferMate as the latest global company to join our growing partnership network.
"TransferMate's unique global payments solution will be a huge asset to us as we continue to identify and attract the brightest talents in world football.
"It is yet another significant example of our ongoing commitment to bringing innovative and ambitious partners on board who share our vision of an exciting and successful future at London Stadium."
TransferMate Co-Founder and Group CFO, Sinead Fitzmaurice added: "This new partnership with West Ham United is of huge significance and it is an honour to be the Club's Global Foreign Exchange and Payments Provider. I am confident that our global FX solution will enable West Ham United to continue in their pursuit of attracting the world's leading footballing talent and skills. By offering the most innovative global payment solutions in the market, TransferMate are set to deliver huge savings for the club into the future."
For more information on the TransferMate global payments service, visit: www.transfermate.com/westhamunited.asp
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Martinez stakes claim for first team spot
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th December 2016
By: Staff Writer
Toni Martinez is moving ever closer to a first team call-up after scoring a hat-trick against Wolves in the Under 23's 4-0 Premier League 2 win last night. Terry Westley's young side - which included six players still eligible to feature for the Under 18s - trounced a high-flying Wolves at Telford FC's ground with Martinez scoring three and having an hand in West Ham's fourth, scored by Dan Kemp. Th 19-year-old has averaged more than a goal per game for the Under 23s this season, with 12 from 11 starts and already calls for his inclusion in the first team - who are desperately lacking a regular goalscorer - are being heard. Were that to happen, it would be with the blessing of Under 23s boss Terry Westley who recently described the Spaniard as "an out and out goalscorer".
"Toni's record is frightening at the moment," he told whufc.com. "He's on double figures and he probably missed six weeks of the season [through injury]. "He can be frustrating because he's not on the right side of the pitch sometimes when you want to play it up, but around the box he comes alive and to score double figures in the first half of the season at any level is difficult."
Martinez opened his account last night from the penalty spot before combining well with Martin Samuelsen, another highly-rated young Hammer to double his account for the night. And having set up Kemp for his forst goal for the Under 23s, Martinez completed his own personal land mark with a clinical close-range finish. Meanwhile the teenager, who moved to West Ham from Valencia last summer is just taking everything in his stride. "It's always nice to get a hat trick," he said, "but the most important thing is the win for the team. But I'm always happy to score three goals. "I'm very happy to be back from injury now and very pleased to return and get three goals tonight. I hope I can push on and improve as the season goes on."
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Stadium stewards taunted father and son
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th December 2016
By: Staff Writer
A West Ham supporter has expressed his surprise after several stewards at the Olympic Stadium were heard mocking a fellow supporter and his son. Hammers fan Tommy Wathen, blogging for EssexLive revealed how he was disgusted to hear a group of stewards mock the fans during the West Ham v Hull clash last weekend. "A man and his young son tried to access a public walkway via a set of stairs next to the club shop which was blocked off by around 10-12 stewards," wrote Wathen. "Despite telling the stewards it's a public pathway, the man and boy moved on and went a different way. "I was then completely shocked to hear the stewards mocking the supporters by imitating what they were saying in stupid voices, whilst giggling between themselves. "The head steward present must've heard it as I was twice the distance away and I heard it crystal clear, but nothing was said and they all continued with their duties. "I couldn't believe that, after all the negative press and problems that the London Stadium stewards have had with supporters, they were mocking fans and thinking it's funny. I don't go to work and mock people that I deal with on a daily basis – so why should they?"
Wathen's experience is the latest in a long line of complaints aimed at the stewards employed by the stadium operators, LS185.
Just last week two season tickets holders, who had previously been banned from the venue having been accused of being abusive towards stadium staff (including making comments of a racist nature) were handed their season tickets back. The bans were rescinded after video evidence, requested by the supporters' legal team failed to support the versions of events supplied by the steward/s in question.
Despite registering a complaint with both West Ham United and the London Stadium, Wathen is yet to receive a reply from either. "I've reported my experience to both who were contacted for a response, but neither decided to make a public comment at the point," he added.
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West Ham to holler for Molla?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th December 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham and Southampton are both reported to be casting an eye over the progress of Udinese centre half Molla Wague. The 25-year-old Malian international had featured just six times for the Serie A side thus far this season but is reported to be interesting both Premier League teams and several Ligue 1 clubs just 12 days before the winter transfer window opens on 1 January. Elsewhere, the outgoing Simone Zaza is being linked with a move to Valencia and Milan. The 25-year-old on-loan striker has proved to be an abject failure at West Ham since joining from Juventus on a season-long loan deal, which is understood to have cost West Ham circa £5million in fees. However the Italian international is on the radar of both the La Liga and Serie A sides, who are reported to be keen to take over the loan with Juve apparently unwilling to take Zaza back. Valencia coach Cesare Prandelli recently indicated his desire to take Zaza to the Mestalla Stadium, telling reporters: "I know him very well and he could be important for us , but it is something that the Board will take care of."
In other transfer news, Ashley Fletcher is reported (The Sun) to be in talks with Championship side Leeds United. The former Manchjester United striker has barely featured at West Ham United under Slaven Bilic and Garry Monk is said to be keen to take the youngster to Elland Road for the remainder of the campaign. Finally, West Ham target Marouane Fellaini has been spotted in Milan, where he is said to have met representatives from Serie A giants Inter. I Nerazzurri chiefs are hoping to conclude a deal that would see the Belgium international move to the San Siro, where the Manchester Utd star would earn circa €140,000 per week.
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Best recalls THAT night in Blackpool
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th December 2016
By: Staff Writer
Clyde Best has revealed what really happened on the infamous night in Blackpool that nearly led to Bobby Moore being sacked by West Ham United.
A West Ham United team - featuring Bobby Moore, Jimmy Greaves, Brian Dear and Best himself - were thrashed 4-0 by underdogs Blackpool in a third round FA Cup tie at Bloomfield Road on 2 January 1971.
However that was just the start of the players' troubles, as someone subsequently leaked to the press that all four had spent the night before the match drinking in a nightclub belonging to the former British boxing Heavyweight champion Brian London.
Ron Greenwood, the manager at the time was naturally furious and, claims Best, initially wanted to sack all those who had been involved - including World Cup-winning captain Moore - only to be dissuaded by Chairman Reg Pratt who fined the players two weeks' wages instead.
"I think we were all dragged into it innocently," Clyde, speaking on the latest episode of the KUMB Podcast, said. "Because the referee had already told us that the game wasn't going to be played.
"Then, when we were woken at four in the morning, after being out [the night before], the game was put back on! But the fact that the guys had been out should take nothing away from Blackpool or Tony Green, who was brilliant."
Talking about the match in his new autobiography, The Acid Test, Best recalled how Blackpool's Green - who scored the first two of the Tangerines' four goals - "reminded me of a ballerina", even though "the surface was at time like ice".
Already in hot water, the players eventually met with a fiery reception from Greenwood once he had been made aware of their decision to sample the Blackpool nightlife which was strictly against orders hours ahead of an important cup tie.
"Ron came down hard on everybody," recalled Best. "I was the only one who wasn't drinking as I was on ginger beer and lime. In fairness, the senior players spoke up for me and told Ron I hadn't been drinking.
"We'd got talking to some members of a television crew and they said they were going to visit London's nightclub. Bobby knew Brian so we all decided to go along; if the game was going to be off, what harm was there in whipping out for a couple of hours?
"Ron didn't hold the incident against me but Greaves, Moore and I were all dropped from the first team - and Jimmy and Brian [Dear] were soon on their way out. They'd only had one or two beers, it wasn't anything out of hand like they'd had seven or eight.
"The main thing is that the display on the field didn't help. If we'd have won everybody would have been happy and he would probably have told us to have a few more beers the next week, you know!"
Best, who spent a further five years at West Ham after the incident - even outstaying his skipper on that fateful day - also felt that Greenwood used the incident to attempt to force Moore out of the club.
"I wouldn't be surprised as he and Bobby had fallen out at that time," he added. "That was maybe Ron's way of trying to get rid of him.
"I think the Blackpool incident was probably the main thing, that and some disagreements they had with the way the team was playing because at times we took a lot of chances when we probably shouldn't have.
"That's probably what happened to make that particular relationship very tough."
* Clyde's new autobiography, entitled The Acid Test can be purchased from publishers deCoubertin Books, in hardback, here. Price £20. A full review will follow on KUMB soon.
* The KUMB Podcast featuring Clyde Best will be available to download tomorrow (Wednesday 21 December).
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INJURY EXCLUSIVE: CRESSWELL SENT IN FROM TRAINING
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 20 DECEMBER 2016 AT 2:57PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
According to friend of the site @IronworkTours whom you can get a great day away match package from, Aaron Cresswell went in from training to day with a new potential injury.
During a session of two touch passing training, Cresswell went down holding his left ankle and was on the floor for sometime. A couple of the coaching staff are said to have helped him into the changing rooms with no shoe on his foot. Cresswell was clearly very dejected when being carried off. Reports also suggest that Antonio went in from training rubbing his groin but he stated to the crowd that he wasn't injured and it was a precaution.
This injury news is fresh from the training ground (so therefore unconfirmed) and we hope that it is nothing serious! We will update when we have further news. If you are looking for more positive news be sure to check out my column from today. Since writing the article-Cresswell has said to the fans that it is nothing serious and he is 99% sure he will be fit for Swansea City.
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Martinez eager to improve even more
WHUFC.com
Toni Martinez scored a hat-trick as West Ham United PL2 beat Wolves 4-0
The Spaniard has now scored 12 goals in 11 matches in all competitions.
He has vowed to improve even more as the season progresses
West Ham United PL2's in-form striker Toni Martinez has vowed to improve even more after netting a sublime hat-trick in the Hammers' 4-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Spaniard has led the line superbly for the U23s this term since joining in the summer from Valencia, and added his tenth, eleventh and twelfth goals in a terrific, individual attacking performance.
Dan Kemp contributed to the scoring, as the Hammers ended 2016 with a much-needed victory which gives them huge confidence going into the Christmas break.
Afterwards though, most of the talk was about Martinez and his terrific record for the U23s so far and the 19-year-old said: "It's always nice to get a hat trick but the most important thing is the win for the team. But I'm always happy to score three goals.
"I'm very happy to be back from injury now and very pleased to return and get three goals tonight. I hope I can push on and improve as the season goes on."
Martinez has now scored 12 goals in 11 U23 matches so far and epitomised everything positive about West Ham's display at the home of AFC Telford United on Monday evening.
He opened the scoring from the spot after Marcus Browne was fouled in the first half, before Dan Kemp added a second after playing an intricate one-two with the Hammers' sharp shooter.
The Spaniard then added his second and third of the game, both clinical finishes from inside the area, to complete a terrific individual and team performance.
"Today was a good game from the whole team, starting from the attack to the defence. I'm very happy for myself and my teammates," Martinez continued.
"It's nice to finish the year with a victory and now i can go back home, see my family and return stronger in the New Year."
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West Ham flop Simone Zaza backed to revive his season at Valencia as he nears Premier League exit
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
West Ham flop Simone Zaza has been backed to turn his career around at Valencia by the coach who wishes to end his misery at the London Stadium. Italy international Zaza is expected to return to parent club Juventus in January after a disastrous spell under Slaven Bilic, for whom he has yet to score in 11 appearances. Juventus are likely to send him straight back out on loan with Valencia having made the striker a top target as they battle above the relegation zone in La Liga. Their manager Cesare Prandelli is convinced that Zaza could make the difference. "The ownership knows everything that I think," Prandelli told a press conference. "I asked for four players to start a new project, we'll see if we can sign them in January. "Zaza? When I came here I spoke to Suso [Valencia director of football] about him. I know him very well and he could be important for us, but it's something the directors will take care of."
The Hammers agreed to pay a £5million loan fee to bring the 25-year-old to the club and had committed to spending £20m if Zaza made sufficient appearances for the club. Currently sidelined with a knee injury, Zaza has appeared in just one of the Hammers last seven games, failing to make the matchday squad in the last three.
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West Ham 'sometimes set expectations too high' admits Angelo Ogbonna as defender caps 'lucky' week by becoming a dad
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Evening Standard
Angelo Ogbonna has labelled the past seven days as a "dream" week after the defender helped West Ham move away from the relegation zone and became a father for the first time. Slaven Bilic's side secured their second straight win in the Premier League on Saturday when Mark Noble's second-half penalty handed the Hammers a narrow 1-0 victory over rock-bottom Hull at the London Stadium. The two wins, along with the 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield in early December, has ensured West Ham are now five points clear of the drop zone ahead of the club's Christmas fixtures away to Swansea and struggling champions Leicester. With things beginning to look up for the east Londoners, Ogbonna has admitted the past week has been a good one for the club and for him personally too after the Italy international's partner gave birth to a baby boy called Samuel. "It has been a very lucky week for me and my family," he told the club's official website. "I am so proud to have become a father and I want to say a big thank you to my fiancée and it is very important. "We are so happy to get seven points and we should not forget the point we got at Anfield last week which was really important. "We have to keep going and stay concentrated. We didn't play well against Hull but the most important thing is the three points and hopefully we will play better in the next game. "I want to talk about our position in the table which was better than the performance. We are staying positive because we got three points and it is so important for everyone. The fans stayed behind us and this is football." He added: "I don't know how much this will turn our season around. I want to stay focused on the present because sometimes our mistake was sometimes setting our expectations too high and we have to stay focused on the next game."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 21
Tuesday, December 20
Daily WHUFC News - 20th December 2016
Manager on Monday
WHUFc.com
Slaven Bilic said a change in plan was the key behind Saturday's 1-0 victory
over Hull City. The boss saw the visitors hit West Ham woodwork on three
occasions as he team rode their luck en route to the three points, but was
happy with how the players responded to his half-time words. Skipper Mark
Noble scored the only goal of the game from the spot with 14 minutes left to
play and Bilic was thrilled to take the points tally for the week to seven.
That lifted the Hammers up to 13th in the Premier League table ahead of the
festive fixtures, meaning the manager will be able to enjoy his Christmas
after a tough period. He explained: "The first half on Saturday wasn't good
and I told the players at half time that we have three good things – first,
the result; second, it can't be much worse than this; and third, they think
they're going to win it and we knew we had a great space to change those
three things. "We changed the system, changed a couple of players, and we
showed a better composure, better everything. After ten minutes we started
to play the way I like – we were pressing up and from the quantity of
attacks the goal happened. "After the goal we were never really under big
pressure from them, and on the contrary we had a couple of opportunities to
score a second one. "We won the game because we showed a good reaction to
the first half [performance]."
One of those half-time changes was to push Michail Antonio up front
alongside Andy Carroll, and with the No30 winning the decisive penalty the
manager paid tribute to his versatility. He added: "When it's not going well
you are trying to find something and you see Andy Carroll is doing
everything. He is winning the balls and all that, but he looks isolated and
you think we will be much better if we can get someone who has good runs
around him. "That's Michail Antonio, of course. You miss him a bit on the
sides, because he can also make a cross, but we opted to have that type of
combination to work them. "Basically, you could see after ten minutes of the
second half when Antonio had a couple of sprints, that it lifted everybody
up. The crowd was up and we started to play much better."
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Antonio - Our luck has turned
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio shows his versatility again in victory over Hull - playing
both on the right and up-front
No30 fouled by Tom Huddlestone for Mark Noble's winning penalty
Hammers top-scorer certain his team can build on seven-point week
Michail Antonio was delighted to play his part in Saturday's 1-0 victory
over Hull City – with his role as provider coming to the fore on an
afternoon when his team rode their luck. Antonio was pushed up top alongside
Andy Carroll at half-time, and it was from that more advanced position that
he was able to influence the Hammers' three-point haul, their second in
succession. First, he led the charge as the hosts broke from a Hull corner
as the game headed into its final 15 minutes, having his 60-yard run halted
illegally by Michael Dawson. Then, from the second phase of Dimitri Payet's
free-kick, Tom Huddlestone fouled the No30 in the box and Mark Noble did the
rest from the spot. He said: "At half time the manager told me to go out
there, drive at them and use my pace. He put me up there in a two up-front
and he asked me to cause some damage. That's what I did in the second half.
"For the penalty the ball was in the air, I out-strengthed Huddlestone. I
took a touch to swing and hit but he's held my leg. Some people will say
it's light, but I believe it was a penalty. The manager asked me to go out
there and do some damage in the second half. That's what I did
"The points on the table is what lifts the pressure. We've got seven from
our last three games and that's got us up to 13th in the table, and if you
keep getting points then there won't be any pressure."
Following a draw at Liverpool and a midweek win against Burnley, Antonio
believe Saturday's outcome was evidence that his team's luck has changed. He
added: "They hit the woodwork three times. It didn't go in and that's the
kind of luck we haven't been having this season. "At the beginning of the
season, whenever someone attacked we got punished, but on Saturday things
went our way. Hopefully we won't need luck in the future and we can win
comfortably."
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West Ham PL2 aim for winning end to 2016
WHUFC.com
West Ham United PL2 travel to AFC Telford United this evening to face
Wolverhampton Wanderers (7pm)
The Hammers are aiming to end their calendar year with a victory
Assistant manager Liam Manning has confidence in his players to deliver
West Ham United PL2 will aim to finish their calendar year on a high this
evening with a trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers (7pm). The match at the home
of AFC Telford United is the Hammers' last of the year and they will hope to
end their run of five games without a victory in all competitions. "It's
important to end the year on a high and have our Christmas break to recover
and rest and go into the New Year knowing you've done well," said defender
Tunji Akinola. Terry Westley's side have been struggling in the way of
results recently, with their last result being a 3-2 defeat at home to
Swansea City last Monday. The Hammers were 3-0 down with five minutes to
play but rallied brilliantly and could have snatched an unlikely point after
goals from Toni Martinez and Domingos Quina put them just a goal behind. It
was too little too late though but assistant manager Liam Manning was
pleased with the response his players showed. "They're a top group. The boys
are quite young but in terms of their attitude and application on a daily
basis is spot on," he said. "It's a credit to them to keep going at 3-0 down
with ten minutes to dig in and not give up so it's a credit to them."
The Hammers opponents this evening will provide a stern test, as they are
currently third in Premier League 2 Division 2. Wolves have won four of
their last five matches and scored a late equaliser the last time the two
sides met in a 2-2 draw at the Chigwell Construction Stadium back in
September.
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Only one West Ham United player on loan was in action over the weekend
Josh Cullen played for Bradford City in their 1-1 draw with Walsall
Enner Valencia looks set to play a part in tonight's Merseyside derby
Two clubs of Hammers on loan in League One went head to head on Saturday as
George Dobson's Walsall hosted Josh Cullen's Bradford City.
Though the former was left on the bench during the 1-1 draw, Cullen
completed the full 90 minutes for the Bantams who remain in the play-offs in
the third tier. Isaiah Osborne gave the Saddlers the lead just four minutes
into the second period, finding the bottom corner from just inside the
penalty area at the Bescot Stadium. But the visiting fans were not made to
wait long for some festive cheer as Jordy Hiwula tucked the ball past Neil
Etheridge in goal after the keeper had denied him previously. Though no
other Hammers on loan were in action over the weekend, one looks set to play
on Monday evening. Enner Valencia, who started in Everton's 2-1 win against
Arsenal last week, could play a part in the Merseyside derby as Liverpool
cross Stanley Park to play at Goodison. The Ecuador international will be
hoping to help improve the Blues' derby record, as they currently have just
two wins from the last 22 meetings with their fierce rivals.
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Man Utd tickets available on Ticket Exchange
WHUFC.com
The Ticket Exchange for the unmissable visit of Manchester United on
Saturday 2 January is now open - with Claret Members having exclusive
priority to purchase until Friday.
The Red Devils visit London Stadium for West Ham's first game of 2017, with
Slaven Bilic's men looking to make it a hat-trick of home wins following
last week's successes against Burnley and Hull City.
With the match having sold out to the Claret Members' ballot, successful
applicants will hear by email. Claret Members will also be able to check if
they have been successful if they log in to their eticketing.co.uk/whufc
account.
Season Ticket Holders who are unable to attend can relist their seats
online, giving other West Ham fans the opportunity to purchase their seat
for the fixture. Season Ticket Holders will not only give another supporter
the chance to be at the game, but they will also earn money back to redeem
against your Season Ticket renewal.
CLARET MEMBERS - BUY TICKETS ON THE TICKET EXCHANGE HERE
Tickets start at £51, and are available exclusively to Claret Members from
now until 5pm on Friday 23 December.
The Ticket Exchange will then open to all supporters - and this is a game
you will not want to miss.
Manchester United's last visit to east London was a spectacular one, as
Diafra Sakho, Michail Antonio and Winston Reid all found the net to give the
Hammers an unforgettable 3-2 victory in the final game at the Boleyn Ground.
Make sure you are there to see if we can get 2017 off to an equally
thrilling start against Jose Mourinho's side.
On the Ticket Exchange, once a Season Ticket Holder's ticket has been
exchanged, his or her Season Card will be disabled for the game, while the
buyer's Claret Membership Card will be activated. If you are not a Claret
Member, you will be able to print your ticket at home.
The credit for the ticket sale will be made available in the seller's Season
Ticket Holder account, minus a 10% administrative charge.
For full details of how to release your seat to the Ticket Exchange, and for
terms and conditions, please click here to view our helpful User Guide.
Season Ticket Holder seats which become available on the Ticket Exchange
will be available to purchase online here.
If you are a Season Ticket Holder unable to attend this game, please relist
your ticket to allow another fan to experience the Hammers at London Stadium
and you will benefit with ticket credit in your account which you can use
towards a future game.
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Randolph - We will take even more confidence
WHUFC.com
Darren Randolph believes the West Ham players can start looking towards the
top half of the table and hopes they can extend their good run of form over
the busy Christmas period. Randolph played his part in helping the Hammers
secure a draw against Liverpool and then crucial back-to-back victories over
Burnley and Hull.
The Hammers keeper had to be at his best once again to keep the Hull
forwards at bay and knows his team can perform to a much higher level. But
Randolph still feels his team-mates showed the character needed to clinch
all three points and hopes it will give them the perfect confidence boost as
they prepare for tough away games against Swansea and Leicester, before
returning to face Manchester United at London Stadium over the busy festive
period Randolph said: "I think quite a bit of pressure has been taken off
us. We had a tough run of games in December but now we are looking at the
games going forward. "We will take even more confidence from the seven
points we have picked up. "We are very happy with how the week has gone
getting a point at Anfield and then two home wins.
"We have moved up the table quite a few place and everyone seems a lot
happier than they were seven days ago. "Hull hit the post three times and I
made a couple of saves. We rode our luck but I get paid to make those saves
and I am happy to do my bit for the team."
Randolph is thrilled to be back in the starting line-up and says he will
continue to work hard in training and show why is good enough to compete in
the Premier League on a regular basis. Randolph added: "I will continue to
take it one game at a time and if I am picked to play I will do my best for
the team. "I don't know about proving myself. I just want to play well every
time I go out there. If I am busy I suppose it looks better on me and gives
me the chance to showcase what I can do."
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FT - Wolves 0-4 West Ham United PL2
WHUFC.com
Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-4 West Ham United
FT: And that's it! A superb last win of 2016 for the Hammers who were
absolutely superb tonight, particularly in the first half. Martinez will be
delighted to have scored his first West Ham hat-trick and some of the
strikes tonight were brilliant. Dan Kemp's goal was a wonderful team effort,
and it's a thoroughly deserved three points.
90: Final sub for West Ham. Toni Martinez gets his round of applause as he
is replaced by Jahmal Hector-Ingram.
86: Wonderful save by Nathan Trott! It's the first time he's been properly
tested. Armstrong cut in from the right and struck one in anger, and Trott
brilliantly and acrobatically tips it over.
83: Kyle Knoyle charges down the left, nutmegs a defender and then wins a
free-kick. That sums up his evening - he's been superb.
81: A couple of subs here. Dan Kemp, who has been superb, is replaced by Joe
Powell, while Anthony Bresnan comes on for Wolves' Cameron
Borthwick-Jackson.
77: GOALLLLLLLLLL and there's a hat-trick for Toni Martinez! Dan Kemp cuts
in on his stronger left foot, curls one into the box and Martinez takes it
down on his chest before smashing it home. Wonderful all-round performance
tonight from the Spaniard!
74: Another penalty shout for West Ham! Again it's Browne causing all the
problems, and he gets into the box on the left hand side and goes shoulder
to shoulder with a defender, hitting the deck. Could have gone either way
that, but the referee waves away any protests.
70: It's been a slightly more gritty performance so far in this second half
from West Ham as they look to protect their clean sheet. 20 minutes remain
in the final PL2 fixture of 2016.
68: Small stoppage in play as a Wolves player receives some treatment. As
the game gets going again, the hosts create an opening for right-back
Simpson, but he slices the attempt and gets it all wrong.
62: There was nearly a fourth for the Hammers! Marcus Browne receives a pass
down the right and bursts into the box, forcing the keeper Flatt into a
strong stop.
60: That one's cleared too, and Wolves break. Armstrong connects with a
cross from six yards out but fires it well over. Great chance for the hosts
to pull one back.
59: He shoots, and it takes a deflection - corner!
58: Another foul by the hosts and another chance for Browne to swing one in
or perhaps even shoot. At an angle, 25 yards from goal...
55: First booking of the night goes to Connor Johnson, and West Ham will
feel like that easily could have been a red for the Wolves defender. With
Browne charging at him, the defender cynically tripped him and breaks up the
attack.
51: Wolves have a spell of possession in and around the West Ham box, and
despite Samuelson's initial scuffed clearance, the visitors get the ball
away pretty comfortably in the end.
48: Slight re-shuffle for the Hammers in the second half, as Vashon
Neufville comes off with a knock. Tunji Akinola is his replacement and he
slots in alongside Declan Rice in the centre of defence, with Pike moving to
the right and Knoyle switching to the left.
46: We're back underway at Telford.
HT: Well, that was outstanding! The Hammers have just been class all over
the pitch, with Wolves second to everything. The second goal was beautiful,
too. Looking forward to another half of this! 3-0 we lead at the break.
44: Samuelsen gets down the left once again and delivers, but it's over
everyone's heads. He's been brilliant out here this evening, the young
Norwegian international.
38: GOALLLLLLLLLLLL and it's a third for the Hammers and a second for
Martinez! Samuelsen robs a Wolves defender in a dangerous area, breaks
forward and gets into the box before teeing up Martinez to curl home
beautifully. Superb team performance so far and it's 3-0!
37: Wolves are trying to get themselves more of a foothold in this first
half but unsuccessfully, so far. West Ham are defending well when they need
to and looking to counter attack quickly.
32: Browne almost makes it three - turning and smashing one from 20 yards,
his effort whistles inches wide of the top corner. What a brilliant first
half this has been so far for West Ham United.
30: GOALLLLLLLLL! A second for the Hammers and what a goal it is! Dan Kemp
plays a one two first with Samuelsen before a second with Martinez, and
stays composed after racing clear to slide it past the keeper. Superb from
Westley's men!
30: Christian Herc lines one up from 30 yards for Wolves but it's extremely
tame and again, it's easy for Trott. 15 left to play in this first half and
the Hammers are well in control.
27: Browne whips in a free-kick from the right and it flashes straight
across the face of goal without a touch. However, the linesman's flag goes
up for offside.
23: Great run by Browne down the left, and he delivers a great low cross,
but nobody attacks it from the Hammers and Wolves can clear.
21: Best chance for the hosts, as Nicu Carnat comes in from the right and
hits one at goal from 18 yards. It's blocked and goes out for a corner,
which comes to nothing.
17: GOALLLLLLLLL! Never in doubt. Martinez slides it to the keeper's right
to give the visitors the lead - a deserved lead.
16: Penalty for the Hammers! Kyle Knoyle sprays a lovely pass down the line
and Browne out-paces his man and is tripped. Martinez from the spot...
12: Wolves look to break and it looks as if Mason is through, but Dec Rice
makes a brilliant last-ditch challenge.
11: Another chance! Martinez gets the ball inside the box and hits one on
his left side from eight yards, but it's well blocked and goes just over.
The resulting corner is cleared. Good start by Terry Westley's team.
9: Chance for the visitors! Martin Samuelsen tries to get away from a couple
of challenges but when he is tackled, it falls to Marcus Browne who forces
the keeper Flatt into a great save down to his right.
7: Aggressive start from the Hammers. They're pressing high, crossing early
and getting really stuck it. All at the same time as trying to play their
football.
4: Strange early decision by referee Samuel Allison. Marcus Browne gets the
better side of a defender who clearly trips the forward just outside the
box. Somehow the official decides Browne is the offender and the hosts get
the decision.
3: Wolves have an early attempt from former Cardiff forward Joe Mason saved
by Nathan Trott. It was straight at the keeper who dealt with it easily.
1: We're underway here at AFC Telford United!
6:55pm: Quite a few fans have now filtered into the ground, supporters of
both sides, including the Telford Irons who will be voicing their support
throughout the evening!
6:45pm: After a disappointing run of form, the Hammers will be keen to get
back on winning ways tonight before the Christmas break. Wolves are third in
Premier League 2 currently, while the Hammers are down fifth. Wolves have
won four of their last five league games too, so this will be tough. Kick
off to come in 15!
6:30pm: AFC Telford United's New Bucks Head is a really tidy little ground.
For a non-league club, they've got a great setup here. The surface looks
great for a December fixture too, so here's to a good game of football this
evening.
6:15pm: It was a frustrating evening for the Hammers back in September -
Wolves scored two crackers but their second was a last minute equaliser. You
can watch those highlights while you wait for kick-off right here.
Wolverhampton Wanderers: Flatt, Simpson, Borthwick-Jackson (Bresnan 81),
Oniangue, Williamson (Deslandes 46), Johnson, Carnat, Gibbs-White, Mason
(Armstrong 46), Herc, Randall.
Subs not used: Finnie, Delacoe.
Bookings: Johnson 55
PL2: Trott, Knoyle, Pike, Rice, Neufville (Akinola 46), Lewis, Quina, Kemp
(Powell 81), Browne, Samuelsen, Martinez (Hector-Ingram 90).
Subs not used: Matrevics.
Goals: Martinez (pen) 17, 38, 77, Kemp 30
6pm: Good evening! We're at AFC Telford United this evening for the Hammers'
final Premier League 2 game of the year. They take on Wolves tonight, the
side they drew with 2-2 earlier this season. Team news to follow shortly.
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Payet non-committal on West Ham future
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th December 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United midfielder Dimitri Payet has refused to rule out a January
return to France. Speaking in an interview with Christophe Dugarry for
French website SFR Sport, the Euro 16 star confessed that he would be
interested in a potential return to Marseille - the club with whom he spent
two years before moving to West Ham. When asked by Dugarry whether he would
ever play in France again, a smiling Payet replied: "I have said I would not
close the door to anything. "Marseille has a new project that seems
interesting, although obviously we are waiting to hear from the new owners.
But everyone knows my attachment to this club."
Payet, who joined West Ham in the summer of 2015 for just £10.75million is
contracted to West Ham until 2021, having signed a new five-year contract in
February.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet says playing for Arsenal could 'only be fun'
By James Dale
Last Updated: 19/12/16 9:29pm
SSN
Dimitri Payet insists he has had no contact with Arsene Wenger about a move
to Arsenal. The West Ham playmaker has been touted with a possible move to
the Gunners, despite Wenger revealing earlier this year he had previously
passed up on the opportunity to sign the France international. Payet says
he is focused on steering West Ham away from relegation trouble but admits
it "could be fun" to play in Wenger's team. "I read that Wenger considers
me the missing piece of the Arsenal's game, but he's never told me that!"
Payet told RMC. "We conceded five or six at home against them. When you see
them playing, as a technical player, you could only have fun in that team.
They're candidates for the title every year."
West Ham are currently in the bottom half of the Premier League table and
sit just five points clear of the relegation zone despite beating Hull 1-0
on Saturday.
"The situation at the club affects me, but I'm an ambitious person," Payet
said. "I'm in a fight with my club and I'm giving everything for them, to
get out of this difficult situation, but I'm not closing the door to
anything. "I miss the Champions League... I've got some great years ahead
of me and I want to enjoy them by playing in important competitions."
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic had said he expects Payet to stay with the club
and that he could not see a possible swap deal with Manchester United's
Anthony Martial happening. Payet added: "If I'm forced to leave West Ham, it
will be done according to the rules - the club will have its share of the
cake. "My coach understands that today's situation does not suit me. I will
ask the questions at the right time."
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West Ham transfer news: Dimitri Payet open to Marseille reunion as he
refuses to 'close the door' on speculation
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Dimitri Payet has again said he would consider a move away from West Ham,
this time hinting he could be open to returning to former club Marseille.
The Hammers spent £11million to bring Payet from the Stade Velodrome in the
summer of 2015 though they didn't regret a penny of it as the 29-year-old
scored 12 goals and provided 15 assists for his new side. Payet has failed
to consistently reach the peaks he hit last season in an indifferent
campaign for West Ham, leading to speculation that he would be bound for the
London Stadium exit door as early as January. Having admitted last month
that a mid-season exit was a possibility Payet did nothing to distance
himself from rumours when speaking to SFR Sport on Sunday, saying: "I am not
closing the door to anything."
West Ham have previously warned they would demand a sizeable fee for a
player who turns 30 in little over three months – the club quoted a £100m
fee to one suitor in the summer. Even now Payet's fee would likely be beyond
Ligue 1 giants Marseille, who were taken over American billionaire Frank
McCourt in August. However he admitted that he was intrigued by the changes
going on at his former club, to which he maintains a great "attachment".
"Marseille have a new project which seems interesting," he added. "Aside
from that, we are obviously waiting to see the first few things that the new
owners do, but Marseille knows how attached I am to the club.
"When I talk about it, I say the best possible things, because that is what
I think, so why not."
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West Ham legend Carlos Tevez close to becoming highest-paid player in the
world
By Essex Chronicle | Posted: December 19, 2016
By Tommy Wathen
West Ham legend Carlos Tevez is set to become the highest paid player in the
world after agreeing to join Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua. The
Argentinian's time in Europe came to an end last summer when Italian
champions Juventus sold the 32 year-old to his boyhood club Boca Juniors,
with this move believed to be Tevez's last and planned place to retire in
the near future. With West Ham struggling for attacking options in the past
18 months, Tevez has been a name touted as a short-term option for Slaven
Bilic's team – where he started his European journey back in August 2006 in
a joint-deal with midfielder-turned-defender Javier Mascherano.
Now, Tevez has decided that he wants one last move before he considers his
retirement, with Shanghai Shenhua offering over £610,000 PER WEEK for the
striker. That figure means that he will surpass the likes of international
teammate Lionel Messi and Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo and become the
highest paid footballer in the world. Tevez played his final game for Boca
Juniors in the 4-1 Primera Division victory over Colon, with one fan even
invading the pitch to kneel down at his hero's feet to show appreciation to
the Boca legend.
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Dimitri Payet open to Marseille return as speculation over West Ham exit
continues
Manchester United and Real Madrid have been mooted as possible destinations
but the man himself has hinted he could instead choose to return to France
BYBEN BURROWS
11:49, 19 DEC 2016UPDATED11:49, 19 DEC 2016
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet has hinted he could return to Marseille as speculation over
his West Ham future continues to rumble on. The Frenchman starred for the
Hammers last term with 12 goals in a stunning debut season in English
football. But with talk of a move away refusing to go away his form has
tailed off somewhat this term. Manchester United and Real Madrid have been
mooted as possible destinations but the man himself has hinted he could
instead choose to return to France if he does indeed look to leave the
London Stadium. "I am not closing the door to anything. Marseille have a
new project which seems interesting," he told SFR Sport. "Aside from that,
we are obviously waiting to see the first few things that the new owners do,
but Marseille knows how attached I am to the club. "When I talk about it, I
say the best possible things, because that is what I think, so why not."
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Andy Carroll singled out for praise by Slaven Bilic after West Ham pick up
two wins on the bounce
KEN DYER
Evening STanard
Slaven Bilic has singled out Andy Carroll for praise, following successive
victories that have eased the pressure on West Ham. Carroll's return from a
knee injury has coincided with an upturn of fortune for West Ham, who have
moved up to 13th in the Premier League following their 1-0 win over Hull on
Saturday. Manager Bilic is impressed with the professionalism the striker
has shown and said: "Andy is everything opposite to what I heard before I
came. Whenever he needs something he asks politely. On Friday night he asked
if he could go home because his kids were there and he would like to put
them to bed and then come back to the hotel. He could have sneaked out —
it's only half an hour. "On the pitch he gives you everything. I trust him.
I only don't trust him when he says I'm okay, I'm fit but then again that is
his positivity. I trust him on the pitch, though."
Bilic confirmed that Carroll and goalkeeper Darren Randolph will not be
punished after they were spotted at a London pub the morning after a team
night out in September. Both players denied being drunk and Bilic said: "It
is sorted. They weren't disciplined."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady takes dig at Tottenham Hotspur during BBC Apprentice final
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham vice-chairman could not resist a dig at Tottenham. Karren Brady
risked incurring the wrath of TV boss Lord Sugar during the BBC Apprentice
Final when she stuck it to his club, Tottenham Hotspur. The West Ham United
vice-chairman could not resist the chance to have a dig at Spurs during the
final last night, broadcast on BBC1 at 9.05pm. It came in the boardroom
during a discussion about potentially selling a product in a West Ham United
club shop, requiring a licensing fee. Brady advised: "You get some cheap
clubs like Spurs, and you get some more expensive clubs like West Ham and
Manchester United. Your £250,000 wouldn't go very far."
Lord Sugar, former Tottenham chairman, did not ruin his big night by getting
drawn into a war of words, simply deciding to smile and move on. Brady's
West Ham boss David Gold did have a warm message for Lord Sugar,
congratulating him on his choice of candidates after the show finishes. The
two east London clubs are fierce rivals, with Tottenham winning a dramatic
clash between the two teams 4-3 earlier this season. Currently Spurs are in
fifth place in the Premier League table, while West Ham are down in 13th
position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic warns his stars to avoid festive booze cruise
West Ham edged past Hull to pull themselves way from the relegation zone
Mark Noble's penalty sent the Hammers 13th in the Premier League
Slaven Bilic has told his players that they can have a beer or two for
Christmas
By Kieran Gill for the Daily Mail
PUBLISHED: 23:30, 18 December 2016 | UPDATED: 23:33, 18 December 2016
Slaven Bilic has told his players that they can have a beer or two for
Christmas – but warned them not to cause controversy with any boozy antics.
It comes after Andy Carroll and Darren Randolph were accused of getting
drunk during a team bonding night out, prompting West Ham to open an
investigation into the pair in September. The Hammers won for the second
successive time on Saturday to pull themselves away from the Premier League
relegation zone. Though it was far from champagne football – a Mark Noble
spot-kick was all that separated the sides – Bilic spoke afterwards about
whether his stars are allowed alcohol over Christmas. 'There is something
between a couple of beers and getting smashed for three nights in a row,'
Bilic said. 'You don't need a Christmas party to have a beer. There is
nothing wrong with having a couple of beers at the right time, after the
game, especially if it's nine days until the next game. 'I want them to be
mentally free and enjoy their life. I want them to enjoy we have six points
from these two games (against Hull and Burnley). They have to relax. If that
requires a beer, OK.'
Carroll and Randolph escaped punishment from West Ham after the club
investigated claims that the pair were drunk and in McDonald's at 7am after
an all-nighter. Asked about them, Bilic smiled and said: 'They can have a
couple of cans each but not alcoholic ones.'
Bilic has also told his staff that there will be no Christmas party because
the 48-year-old does not want to celebrate until he feels the job is done.
He added that it could be held in February. West Ham's players are scheduled
to train on Christmas Day then travel to Swansea to stay in a hotel ahead of
their Boxing Day game. West Ham rode their luck against Hull, who hit the
woodwork three times and had a header cleared off the line. It saw 'the
post' win the man of the match award, as voted for by West Ham fans. Carroll
played 90 minutes against Hull and Bilic spoke about his trust for him
afterwards. On Friday night, the striker asked if he could leave their team
hotel to visit his kids at home. 'He could have sneaked out as it is only 30
minutes,' Bilic said. 'On and off the pitch he gives you everything. That's
why I like him so much.' It was Michail Antonio who won the penalty against
Hull. The visitors felt it was soft but Hull's Andrew Robertson admitted
they were in no position to complain after Robert Snodgrass' dive for a
penalty against Crystal Palace last week. 'Antonio has flung himself to the
ground like people do these days,' Robertson said. 'The referee has
hesitated with it but with West Ham being at home, he's put the whistle to
his mouth. 'Personally I think it's soft but we've had soft penalties so
it's hard to argue.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic cancels Christmas for West Ham until they 'do the business'
Sam Dean, at london stadium
18 DECEMBER 2016 • 10:31PM
The Telegraph
Seven points in a week and back-to-back victories might seem worthy of a
little festive celebration, but West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic will
not be found getting into the Christmas spirit this year. His side's 1-0 win
over Hull City on Saturday has pushed them five points clear of the
relegation zone, yet many of the problems that have pockmarked their
campaign were in evidence again as they stuttered their way through a game
that they could easily have lost by half-time. So, despite the upturn in
results, Christmas is cancelled, or at least postponed. "I told my staff no
Christmas party," Bilic said. "We have a Christmas party in January or
February. Let's do the business, because I want to enjoy that night out. Now
we can enjoy it more than a week ago, but I would like to properly enjoy it
this year and I can't."
He added that he did not know what the players' plans were for the party
season, but the message could not have been clearer: things are improving at
the London Stadium, but there remains a long way to go. That much was
evident from his side's showing for the first hour against Hull, who created
and squandered enough chances to have won this game five times over. Mike
Phelan's side struck the post three times and had an effort cleared off the
line before Mark Noble's late penalty secured three of the most undeserved
points West Ham will earn this season. "The first half was not good," said
Bilic. "I said to the players at half-time, 'We have three good things.
First, the result. Second, we can't be much worse than this and third I
think we are going to win it because there is space for us to change it.' "
With their next match – a trip to struggling Swansea City – not until Boxing
Day, there is time for a few days off and a "couple of beers" for the
players. "You don't need a Christmas party to have a beer," Bilic said. "I
want them to enjoy that we had six points from these two demanding games.
They have to relax. If that requires a beer, OK, but there is something
between a couple of beers and getting smashed for three nights in a row."
There is unlikely to be much relaxation for Hull, who will spend Christmas
at the bottom of the league table. "We have to rally," said Phelan. "We have
to make sure that these players realise the small margins that it takes to
win a football match. I can only compliment them, pat them on the back and
say we go again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic cancels his West Ham Christmas party - but will allow players a
drink after back-to-back wins
Saturday's win over Hull was West Ham's second in a week to boost their
survival chances but Bilic admits he won't be able to enjoy a night out just
yet
BYNEIL MCLEMAN
22:30, 18 DEC 2016UPDATED18:26, 18 DEC 2016
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has cancelled his own Christmas party with West Ham still in
relegation danger – but told his players to enjoy a beer.
Seven points in three games have lifted spirits and the Hammers five points
clear of the drop zone. But the Croat coach said: "I told my staff we're
going to have a Christmas party in January or February. Because I want to
enjoy that night out and I can't. Okay I can enjoy it more than I could have
a week ago but I can't enjoy it. "It was a very demanding couple of weeks
for us after Liverpool, a very demanding couple of games for us mentally and
physically and we won them. "So they are going to have a couple of days off
now and then we are back in business, back in training." "You don't need a
Christmas party to have a beer," he said. "There is nothing wrong with
having a couple of beers at the right time, after the game, especially if
it's nine days until the next game. "I want them to be mentally free and
enjoy their life. I want them to enjoy we have six points from these two
games. They have to relax. There's something between a couple of beers and
getting smashed for three nights in a row."
Carroll and Darren Randolph were investigated in September after claims the
pair were still taking refreshments the day after a club-sanctioned night
out. "It's sorted and they weren't disciplined," Bilic said before joking:
"They can have a couple of cans each, but not alcoholic ones! "He (Carroll)
asked me last night if he can go home as his kids are home. He then came
straight back to the hotel. He could have sneaked out as it's only 30
minutes. On and off the pitch he gives you everything. "That's why I like
him so much. Do I trust him? Yeah, that's a good word. But I only still
don't trust him when he says he is okay and fit and play. But that's because
he always wants to play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFc.com
Slaven Bilic said a change in plan was the key behind Saturday's 1-0 victory
over Hull City. The boss saw the visitors hit West Ham woodwork on three
occasions as he team rode their luck en route to the three points, but was
happy with how the players responded to his half-time words. Skipper Mark
Noble scored the only goal of the game from the spot with 14 minutes left to
play and Bilic was thrilled to take the points tally for the week to seven.
That lifted the Hammers up to 13th in the Premier League table ahead of the
festive fixtures, meaning the manager will be able to enjoy his Christmas
after a tough period. He explained: "The first half on Saturday wasn't good
and I told the players at half time that we have three good things – first,
the result; second, it can't be much worse than this; and third, they think
they're going to win it and we knew we had a great space to change those
three things. "We changed the system, changed a couple of players, and we
showed a better composure, better everything. After ten minutes we started
to play the way I like – we were pressing up and from the quantity of
attacks the goal happened. "After the goal we were never really under big
pressure from them, and on the contrary we had a couple of opportunities to
score a second one. "We won the game because we showed a good reaction to
the first half [performance]."
One of those half-time changes was to push Michail Antonio up front
alongside Andy Carroll, and with the No30 winning the decisive penalty the
manager paid tribute to his versatility. He added: "When it's not going well
you are trying to find something and you see Andy Carroll is doing
everything. He is winning the balls and all that, but he looks isolated and
you think we will be much better if we can get someone who has good runs
around him. "That's Michail Antonio, of course. You miss him a bit on the
sides, because he can also make a cross, but we opted to have that type of
combination to work them. "Basically, you could see after ten minutes of the
second half when Antonio had a couple of sprints, that it lifted everybody
up. The crowd was up and we started to play much better."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio - Our luck has turned
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio shows his versatility again in victory over Hull - playing
both on the right and up-front
No30 fouled by Tom Huddlestone for Mark Noble's winning penalty
Hammers top-scorer certain his team can build on seven-point week
Michail Antonio was delighted to play his part in Saturday's 1-0 victory
over Hull City – with his role as provider coming to the fore on an
afternoon when his team rode their luck. Antonio was pushed up top alongside
Andy Carroll at half-time, and it was from that more advanced position that
he was able to influence the Hammers' three-point haul, their second in
succession. First, he led the charge as the hosts broke from a Hull corner
as the game headed into its final 15 minutes, having his 60-yard run halted
illegally by Michael Dawson. Then, from the second phase of Dimitri Payet's
free-kick, Tom Huddlestone fouled the No30 in the box and Mark Noble did the
rest from the spot. He said: "At half time the manager told me to go out
there, drive at them and use my pace. He put me up there in a two up-front
and he asked me to cause some damage. That's what I did in the second half.
"For the penalty the ball was in the air, I out-strengthed Huddlestone. I
took a touch to swing and hit but he's held my leg. Some people will say
it's light, but I believe it was a penalty. The manager asked me to go out
there and do some damage in the second half. That's what I did
"The points on the table is what lifts the pressure. We've got seven from
our last three games and that's got us up to 13th in the table, and if you
keep getting points then there won't be any pressure."
Following a draw at Liverpool and a midweek win against Burnley, Antonio
believe Saturday's outcome was evidence that his team's luck has changed. He
added: "They hit the woodwork three times. It didn't go in and that's the
kind of luck we haven't been having this season. "At the beginning of the
season, whenever someone attacked we got punished, but on Saturday things
went our way. Hopefully we won't need luck in the future and we can win
comfortably."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham PL2 aim for winning end to 2016
WHUFC.com
West Ham United PL2 travel to AFC Telford United this evening to face
Wolverhampton Wanderers (7pm)
The Hammers are aiming to end their calendar year with a victory
Assistant manager Liam Manning has confidence in his players to deliver
West Ham United PL2 will aim to finish their calendar year on a high this
evening with a trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers (7pm). The match at the home
of AFC Telford United is the Hammers' last of the year and they will hope to
end their run of five games without a victory in all competitions. "It's
important to end the year on a high and have our Christmas break to recover
and rest and go into the New Year knowing you've done well," said defender
Tunji Akinola. Terry Westley's side have been struggling in the way of
results recently, with their last result being a 3-2 defeat at home to
Swansea City last Monday. The Hammers were 3-0 down with five minutes to
play but rallied brilliantly and could have snatched an unlikely point after
goals from Toni Martinez and Domingos Quina put them just a goal behind. It
was too little too late though but assistant manager Liam Manning was
pleased with the response his players showed. "They're a top group. The boys
are quite young but in terms of their attitude and application on a daily
basis is spot on," he said. "It's a credit to them to keep going at 3-0 down
with ten minutes to dig in and not give up so it's a credit to them."
The Hammers opponents this evening will provide a stern test, as they are
currently third in Premier League 2 Division 2. Wolves have won four of
their last five matches and scored a late equaliser the last time the two
sides met in a 2-2 draw at the Chigwell Construction Stadium back in
September.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Only one West Ham United player on loan was in action over the weekend
Josh Cullen played for Bradford City in their 1-1 draw with Walsall
Enner Valencia looks set to play a part in tonight's Merseyside derby
Two clubs of Hammers on loan in League One went head to head on Saturday as
George Dobson's Walsall hosted Josh Cullen's Bradford City.
Though the former was left on the bench during the 1-1 draw, Cullen
completed the full 90 minutes for the Bantams who remain in the play-offs in
the third tier. Isaiah Osborne gave the Saddlers the lead just four minutes
into the second period, finding the bottom corner from just inside the
penalty area at the Bescot Stadium. But the visiting fans were not made to
wait long for some festive cheer as Jordy Hiwula tucked the ball past Neil
Etheridge in goal after the keeper had denied him previously. Though no
other Hammers on loan were in action over the weekend, one looks set to play
on Monday evening. Enner Valencia, who started in Everton's 2-1 win against
Arsenal last week, could play a part in the Merseyside derby as Liverpool
cross Stanley Park to play at Goodison. The Ecuador international will be
hoping to help improve the Blues' derby record, as they currently have just
two wins from the last 22 meetings with their fierce rivals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man Utd tickets available on Ticket Exchange
WHUFC.com
The Ticket Exchange for the unmissable visit of Manchester United on
Saturday 2 January is now open - with Claret Members having exclusive
priority to purchase until Friday.
The Red Devils visit London Stadium for West Ham's first game of 2017, with
Slaven Bilic's men looking to make it a hat-trick of home wins following
last week's successes against Burnley and Hull City.
With the match having sold out to the Claret Members' ballot, successful
applicants will hear by email. Claret Members will also be able to check if
they have been successful if they log in to their eticketing.co.uk/whufc
account.
Season Ticket Holders who are unable to attend can relist their seats
online, giving other West Ham fans the opportunity to purchase their seat
for the fixture. Season Ticket Holders will not only give another supporter
the chance to be at the game, but they will also earn money back to redeem
against your Season Ticket renewal.
CLARET MEMBERS - BUY TICKETS ON THE TICKET EXCHANGE HERE
Tickets start at £51, and are available exclusively to Claret Members from
now until 5pm on Friday 23 December.
The Ticket Exchange will then open to all supporters - and this is a game
you will not want to miss.
Manchester United's last visit to east London was a spectacular one, as
Diafra Sakho, Michail Antonio and Winston Reid all found the net to give the
Hammers an unforgettable 3-2 victory in the final game at the Boleyn Ground.
Make sure you are there to see if we can get 2017 off to an equally
thrilling start against Jose Mourinho's side.
On the Ticket Exchange, once a Season Ticket Holder's ticket has been
exchanged, his or her Season Card will be disabled for the game, while the
buyer's Claret Membership Card will be activated. If you are not a Claret
Member, you will be able to print your ticket at home.
The credit for the ticket sale will be made available in the seller's Season
Ticket Holder account, minus a 10% administrative charge.
For full details of how to release your seat to the Ticket Exchange, and for
terms and conditions, please click here to view our helpful User Guide.
Season Ticket Holder seats which become available on the Ticket Exchange
will be available to purchase online here.
If you are a Season Ticket Holder unable to attend this game, please relist
your ticket to allow another fan to experience the Hammers at London Stadium
and you will benefit with ticket credit in your account which you can use
towards a future game.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph - We will take even more confidence
WHUFC.com
Darren Randolph believes the West Ham players can start looking towards the
top half of the table and hopes they can extend their good run of form over
the busy Christmas period. Randolph played his part in helping the Hammers
secure a draw against Liverpool and then crucial back-to-back victories over
Burnley and Hull.
The Hammers keeper had to be at his best once again to keep the Hull
forwards at bay and knows his team can perform to a much higher level. But
Randolph still feels his team-mates showed the character needed to clinch
all three points and hopes it will give them the perfect confidence boost as
they prepare for tough away games against Swansea and Leicester, before
returning to face Manchester United at London Stadium over the busy festive
period Randolph said: "I think quite a bit of pressure has been taken off
us. We had a tough run of games in December but now we are looking at the
games going forward. "We will take even more confidence from the seven
points we have picked up. "We are very happy with how the week has gone
getting a point at Anfield and then two home wins.
"We have moved up the table quite a few place and everyone seems a lot
happier than they were seven days ago. "Hull hit the post three times and I
made a couple of saves. We rode our luck but I get paid to make those saves
and I am happy to do my bit for the team."
Randolph is thrilled to be back in the starting line-up and says he will
continue to work hard in training and show why is good enough to compete in
the Premier League on a regular basis. Randolph added: "I will continue to
take it one game at a time and if I am picked to play I will do my best for
the team. "I don't know about proving myself. I just want to play well every
time I go out there. If I am busy I suppose it looks better on me and gives
me the chance to showcase what I can do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
FT - Wolves 0-4 West Ham United PL2
WHUFC.com
Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-4 West Ham United
FT: And that's it! A superb last win of 2016 for the Hammers who were
absolutely superb tonight, particularly in the first half. Martinez will be
delighted to have scored his first West Ham hat-trick and some of the
strikes tonight were brilliant. Dan Kemp's goal was a wonderful team effort,
and it's a thoroughly deserved three points.
90: Final sub for West Ham. Toni Martinez gets his round of applause as he
is replaced by Jahmal Hector-Ingram.
86: Wonderful save by Nathan Trott! It's the first time he's been properly
tested. Armstrong cut in from the right and struck one in anger, and Trott
brilliantly and acrobatically tips it over.
83: Kyle Knoyle charges down the left, nutmegs a defender and then wins a
free-kick. That sums up his evening - he's been superb.
81: A couple of subs here. Dan Kemp, who has been superb, is replaced by Joe
Powell, while Anthony Bresnan comes on for Wolves' Cameron
Borthwick-Jackson.
77: GOALLLLLLLLLL and there's a hat-trick for Toni Martinez! Dan Kemp cuts
in on his stronger left foot, curls one into the box and Martinez takes it
down on his chest before smashing it home. Wonderful all-round performance
tonight from the Spaniard!
74: Another penalty shout for West Ham! Again it's Browne causing all the
problems, and he gets into the box on the left hand side and goes shoulder
to shoulder with a defender, hitting the deck. Could have gone either way
that, but the referee waves away any protests.
70: It's been a slightly more gritty performance so far in this second half
from West Ham as they look to protect their clean sheet. 20 minutes remain
in the final PL2 fixture of 2016.
68: Small stoppage in play as a Wolves player receives some treatment. As
the game gets going again, the hosts create an opening for right-back
Simpson, but he slices the attempt and gets it all wrong.
62: There was nearly a fourth for the Hammers! Marcus Browne receives a pass
down the right and bursts into the box, forcing the keeper Flatt into a
strong stop.
60: That one's cleared too, and Wolves break. Armstrong connects with a
cross from six yards out but fires it well over. Great chance for the hosts
to pull one back.
59: He shoots, and it takes a deflection - corner!
58: Another foul by the hosts and another chance for Browne to swing one in
or perhaps even shoot. At an angle, 25 yards from goal...
55: First booking of the night goes to Connor Johnson, and West Ham will
feel like that easily could have been a red for the Wolves defender. With
Browne charging at him, the defender cynically tripped him and breaks up the
attack.
51: Wolves have a spell of possession in and around the West Ham box, and
despite Samuelson's initial scuffed clearance, the visitors get the ball
away pretty comfortably in the end.
48: Slight re-shuffle for the Hammers in the second half, as Vashon
Neufville comes off with a knock. Tunji Akinola is his replacement and he
slots in alongside Declan Rice in the centre of defence, with Pike moving to
the right and Knoyle switching to the left.
46: We're back underway at Telford.
HT: Well, that was outstanding! The Hammers have just been class all over
the pitch, with Wolves second to everything. The second goal was beautiful,
too. Looking forward to another half of this! 3-0 we lead at the break.
44: Samuelsen gets down the left once again and delivers, but it's over
everyone's heads. He's been brilliant out here this evening, the young
Norwegian international.
38: GOALLLLLLLLLLLL and it's a third for the Hammers and a second for
Martinez! Samuelsen robs a Wolves defender in a dangerous area, breaks
forward and gets into the box before teeing up Martinez to curl home
beautifully. Superb team performance so far and it's 3-0!
37: Wolves are trying to get themselves more of a foothold in this first
half but unsuccessfully, so far. West Ham are defending well when they need
to and looking to counter attack quickly.
32: Browne almost makes it three - turning and smashing one from 20 yards,
his effort whistles inches wide of the top corner. What a brilliant first
half this has been so far for West Ham United.
30: GOALLLLLLLLL! A second for the Hammers and what a goal it is! Dan Kemp
plays a one two first with Samuelsen before a second with Martinez, and
stays composed after racing clear to slide it past the keeper. Superb from
Westley's men!
30: Christian Herc lines one up from 30 yards for Wolves but it's extremely
tame and again, it's easy for Trott. 15 left to play in this first half and
the Hammers are well in control.
27: Browne whips in a free-kick from the right and it flashes straight
across the face of goal without a touch. However, the linesman's flag goes
up for offside.
23: Great run by Browne down the left, and he delivers a great low cross,
but nobody attacks it from the Hammers and Wolves can clear.
21: Best chance for the hosts, as Nicu Carnat comes in from the right and
hits one at goal from 18 yards. It's blocked and goes out for a corner,
which comes to nothing.
17: GOALLLLLLLLL! Never in doubt. Martinez slides it to the keeper's right
to give the visitors the lead - a deserved lead.
16: Penalty for the Hammers! Kyle Knoyle sprays a lovely pass down the line
and Browne out-paces his man and is tripped. Martinez from the spot...
12: Wolves look to break and it looks as if Mason is through, but Dec Rice
makes a brilliant last-ditch challenge.
11: Another chance! Martinez gets the ball inside the box and hits one on
his left side from eight yards, but it's well blocked and goes just over.
The resulting corner is cleared. Good start by Terry Westley's team.
9: Chance for the visitors! Martin Samuelsen tries to get away from a couple
of challenges but when he is tackled, it falls to Marcus Browne who forces
the keeper Flatt into a great save down to his right.
7: Aggressive start from the Hammers. They're pressing high, crossing early
and getting really stuck it. All at the same time as trying to play their
football.
4: Strange early decision by referee Samuel Allison. Marcus Browne gets the
better side of a defender who clearly trips the forward just outside the
box. Somehow the official decides Browne is the offender and the hosts get
the decision.
3: Wolves have an early attempt from former Cardiff forward Joe Mason saved
by Nathan Trott. It was straight at the keeper who dealt with it easily.
1: We're underway here at AFC Telford United!
6:55pm: Quite a few fans have now filtered into the ground, supporters of
both sides, including the Telford Irons who will be voicing their support
throughout the evening!
6:45pm: After a disappointing run of form, the Hammers will be keen to get
back on winning ways tonight before the Christmas break. Wolves are third in
Premier League 2 currently, while the Hammers are down fifth. Wolves have
won four of their last five league games too, so this will be tough. Kick
off to come in 15!
6:30pm: AFC Telford United's New Bucks Head is a really tidy little ground.
For a non-league club, they've got a great setup here. The surface looks
great for a December fixture too, so here's to a good game of football this
evening.
6:15pm: It was a frustrating evening for the Hammers back in September -
Wolves scored two crackers but their second was a last minute equaliser. You
can watch those highlights while you wait for kick-off right here.
Wolverhampton Wanderers: Flatt, Simpson, Borthwick-Jackson (Bresnan 81),
Oniangue, Williamson (Deslandes 46), Johnson, Carnat, Gibbs-White, Mason
(Armstrong 46), Herc, Randall.
Subs not used: Finnie, Delacoe.
Bookings: Johnson 55
PL2: Trott, Knoyle, Pike, Rice, Neufville (Akinola 46), Lewis, Quina, Kemp
(Powell 81), Browne, Samuelsen, Martinez (Hector-Ingram 90).
Subs not used: Matrevics.
Goals: Martinez (pen) 17, 38, 77, Kemp 30
6pm: Good evening! We're at AFC Telford United this evening for the Hammers'
final Premier League 2 game of the year. They take on Wolves tonight, the
side they drew with 2-2 earlier this season. Team news to follow shortly.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet non-committal on West Ham future
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th December 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United midfielder Dimitri Payet has refused to rule out a January
return to France. Speaking in an interview with Christophe Dugarry for
French website SFR Sport, the Euro 16 star confessed that he would be
interested in a potential return to Marseille - the club with whom he spent
two years before moving to West Ham. When asked by Dugarry whether he would
ever play in France again, a smiling Payet replied: "I have said I would not
close the door to anything. "Marseille has a new project that seems
interesting, although obviously we are waiting to hear from the new owners.
But everyone knows my attachment to this club."
Payet, who joined West Ham in the summer of 2015 for just £10.75million is
contracted to West Ham until 2021, having signed a new five-year contract in
February.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Dimitri Payet says playing for Arsenal could 'only be fun'
By James Dale
Last Updated: 19/12/16 9:29pm
SSN
Dimitri Payet insists he has had no contact with Arsene Wenger about a move
to Arsenal. The West Ham playmaker has been touted with a possible move to
the Gunners, despite Wenger revealing earlier this year he had previously
passed up on the opportunity to sign the France international. Payet says
he is focused on steering West Ham away from relegation trouble but admits
it "could be fun" to play in Wenger's team. "I read that Wenger considers
me the missing piece of the Arsenal's game, but he's never told me that!"
Payet told RMC. "We conceded five or six at home against them. When you see
them playing, as a technical player, you could only have fun in that team.
They're candidates for the title every year."
West Ham are currently in the bottom half of the Premier League table and
sit just five points clear of the relegation zone despite beating Hull 1-0
on Saturday.
"The situation at the club affects me, but I'm an ambitious person," Payet
said. "I'm in a fight with my club and I'm giving everything for them, to
get out of this difficult situation, but I'm not closing the door to
anything. "I miss the Champions League... I've got some great years ahead
of me and I want to enjoy them by playing in important competitions."
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic had said he expects Payet to stay with the club
and that he could not see a possible swap deal with Manchester United's
Anthony Martial happening. Payet added: "If I'm forced to leave West Ham, it
will be done according to the rules - the club will have its share of the
cake. "My coach understands that today's situation does not suit me. I will
ask the questions at the right time."
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West Ham transfer news: Dimitri Payet open to Marseille reunion as he
refuses to 'close the door' on speculation
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Dimitri Payet has again said he would consider a move away from West Ham,
this time hinting he could be open to returning to former club Marseille.
The Hammers spent £11million to bring Payet from the Stade Velodrome in the
summer of 2015 though they didn't regret a penny of it as the 29-year-old
scored 12 goals and provided 15 assists for his new side. Payet has failed
to consistently reach the peaks he hit last season in an indifferent
campaign for West Ham, leading to speculation that he would be bound for the
London Stadium exit door as early as January. Having admitted last month
that a mid-season exit was a possibility Payet did nothing to distance
himself from rumours when speaking to SFR Sport on Sunday, saying: "I am not
closing the door to anything."
West Ham have previously warned they would demand a sizeable fee for a
player who turns 30 in little over three months – the club quoted a £100m
fee to one suitor in the summer. Even now Payet's fee would likely be beyond
Ligue 1 giants Marseille, who were taken over American billionaire Frank
McCourt in August. However he admitted that he was intrigued by the changes
going on at his former club, to which he maintains a great "attachment".
"Marseille have a new project which seems interesting," he added. "Aside
from that, we are obviously waiting to see the first few things that the new
owners do, but Marseille knows how attached I am to the club.
"When I talk about it, I say the best possible things, because that is what
I think, so why not."
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West Ham legend Carlos Tevez close to becoming highest-paid player in the
world
By Essex Chronicle | Posted: December 19, 2016
By Tommy Wathen
West Ham legend Carlos Tevez is set to become the highest paid player in the
world after agreeing to join Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua. The
Argentinian's time in Europe came to an end last summer when Italian
champions Juventus sold the 32 year-old to his boyhood club Boca Juniors,
with this move believed to be Tevez's last and planned place to retire in
the near future. With West Ham struggling for attacking options in the past
18 months, Tevez has been a name touted as a short-term option for Slaven
Bilic's team – where he started his European journey back in August 2006 in
a joint-deal with midfielder-turned-defender Javier Mascherano.
Now, Tevez has decided that he wants one last move before he considers his
retirement, with Shanghai Shenhua offering over £610,000 PER WEEK for the
striker. That figure means that he will surpass the likes of international
teammate Lionel Messi and Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo and become the
highest paid footballer in the world. Tevez played his final game for Boca
Juniors in the 4-1 Primera Division victory over Colon, with one fan even
invading the pitch to kneel down at his hero's feet to show appreciation to
the Boca legend.
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Dimitri Payet open to Marseille return as speculation over West Ham exit
continues
Manchester United and Real Madrid have been mooted as possible destinations
but the man himself has hinted he could instead choose to return to France
BYBEN BURROWS
11:49, 19 DEC 2016UPDATED11:49, 19 DEC 2016
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet has hinted he could return to Marseille as speculation over
his West Ham future continues to rumble on. The Frenchman starred for the
Hammers last term with 12 goals in a stunning debut season in English
football. But with talk of a move away refusing to go away his form has
tailed off somewhat this term. Manchester United and Real Madrid have been
mooted as possible destinations but the man himself has hinted he could
instead choose to return to France if he does indeed look to leave the
London Stadium. "I am not closing the door to anything. Marseille have a
new project which seems interesting," he told SFR Sport. "Aside from that,
we are obviously waiting to see the first few things that the new owners do,
but Marseille knows how attached I am to the club. "When I talk about it, I
say the best possible things, because that is what I think, so why not."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll singled out for praise by Slaven Bilic after West Ham pick up
two wins on the bounce
KEN DYER
Evening STanard
Slaven Bilic has singled out Andy Carroll for praise, following successive
victories that have eased the pressure on West Ham. Carroll's return from a
knee injury has coincided with an upturn of fortune for West Ham, who have
moved up to 13th in the Premier League following their 1-0 win over Hull on
Saturday. Manager Bilic is impressed with the professionalism the striker
has shown and said: "Andy is everything opposite to what I heard before I
came. Whenever he needs something he asks politely. On Friday night he asked
if he could go home because his kids were there and he would like to put
them to bed and then come back to the hotel. He could have sneaked out —
it's only half an hour. "On the pitch he gives you everything. I trust him.
I only don't trust him when he says I'm okay, I'm fit but then again that is
his positivity. I trust him on the pitch, though."
Bilic confirmed that Carroll and goalkeeper Darren Randolph will not be
punished after they were spotted at a London pub the morning after a team
night out in September. Both players denied being drunk and Bilic said: "It
is sorted. They weren't disciplined."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady takes dig at Tottenham Hotspur during BBC Apprentice final
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham vice-chairman could not resist a dig at Tottenham. Karren Brady
risked incurring the wrath of TV boss Lord Sugar during the BBC Apprentice
Final when she stuck it to his club, Tottenham Hotspur. The West Ham United
vice-chairman could not resist the chance to have a dig at Spurs during the
final last night, broadcast on BBC1 at 9.05pm. It came in the boardroom
during a discussion about potentially selling a product in a West Ham United
club shop, requiring a licensing fee. Brady advised: "You get some cheap
clubs like Spurs, and you get some more expensive clubs like West Ham and
Manchester United. Your £250,000 wouldn't go very far."
Lord Sugar, former Tottenham chairman, did not ruin his big night by getting
drawn into a war of words, simply deciding to smile and move on. Brady's
West Ham boss David Gold did have a warm message for Lord Sugar,
congratulating him on his choice of candidates after the show finishes. The
two east London clubs are fierce rivals, with Tottenham winning a dramatic
clash between the two teams 4-3 earlier this season. Currently Spurs are in
fifth place in the Premier League table, while West Ham are down in 13th
position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic warns his stars to avoid festive booze cruise
West Ham edged past Hull to pull themselves way from the relegation zone
Mark Noble's penalty sent the Hammers 13th in the Premier League
Slaven Bilic has told his players that they can have a beer or two for
Christmas
By Kieran Gill for the Daily Mail
PUBLISHED: 23:30, 18 December 2016 | UPDATED: 23:33, 18 December 2016
Slaven Bilic has told his players that they can have a beer or two for
Christmas – but warned them not to cause controversy with any boozy antics.
It comes after Andy Carroll and Darren Randolph were accused of getting
drunk during a team bonding night out, prompting West Ham to open an
investigation into the pair in September. The Hammers won for the second
successive time on Saturday to pull themselves away from the Premier League
relegation zone. Though it was far from champagne football – a Mark Noble
spot-kick was all that separated the sides – Bilic spoke afterwards about
whether his stars are allowed alcohol over Christmas. 'There is something
between a couple of beers and getting smashed for three nights in a row,'
Bilic said. 'You don't need a Christmas party to have a beer. There is
nothing wrong with having a couple of beers at the right time, after the
game, especially if it's nine days until the next game. 'I want them to be
mentally free and enjoy their life. I want them to enjoy we have six points
from these two games (against Hull and Burnley). They have to relax. If that
requires a beer, OK.'
Carroll and Randolph escaped punishment from West Ham after the club
investigated claims that the pair were drunk and in McDonald's at 7am after
an all-nighter. Asked about them, Bilic smiled and said: 'They can have a
couple of cans each but not alcoholic ones.'
Bilic has also told his staff that there will be no Christmas party because
the 48-year-old does not want to celebrate until he feels the job is done.
He added that it could be held in February. West Ham's players are scheduled
to train on Christmas Day then travel to Swansea to stay in a hotel ahead of
their Boxing Day game. West Ham rode their luck against Hull, who hit the
woodwork three times and had a header cleared off the line. It saw 'the
post' win the man of the match award, as voted for by West Ham fans. Carroll
played 90 minutes against Hull and Bilic spoke about his trust for him
afterwards. On Friday night, the striker asked if he could leave their team
hotel to visit his kids at home. 'He could have sneaked out as it is only 30
minutes,' Bilic said. 'On and off the pitch he gives you everything. That's
why I like him so much.' It was Michail Antonio who won the penalty against
Hull. The visitors felt it was soft but Hull's Andrew Robertson admitted
they were in no position to complain after Robert Snodgrass' dive for a
penalty against Crystal Palace last week. 'Antonio has flung himself to the
ground like people do these days,' Robertson said. 'The referee has
hesitated with it but with West Ham being at home, he's put the whistle to
his mouth. 'Personally I think it's soft but we've had soft penalties so
it's hard to argue.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic cancels Christmas for West Ham until they 'do the business'
Sam Dean, at london stadium
18 DECEMBER 2016 • 10:31PM
The Telegraph
Seven points in a week and back-to-back victories might seem worthy of a
little festive celebration, but West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic will
not be found getting into the Christmas spirit this year. His side's 1-0 win
over Hull City on Saturday has pushed them five points clear of the
relegation zone, yet many of the problems that have pockmarked their
campaign were in evidence again as they stuttered their way through a game
that they could easily have lost by half-time. So, despite the upturn in
results, Christmas is cancelled, or at least postponed. "I told my staff no
Christmas party," Bilic said. "We have a Christmas party in January or
February. Let's do the business, because I want to enjoy that night out. Now
we can enjoy it more than a week ago, but I would like to properly enjoy it
this year and I can't."
He added that he did not know what the players' plans were for the party
season, but the message could not have been clearer: things are improving at
the London Stadium, but there remains a long way to go. That much was
evident from his side's showing for the first hour against Hull, who created
and squandered enough chances to have won this game five times over. Mike
Phelan's side struck the post three times and had an effort cleared off the
line before Mark Noble's late penalty secured three of the most undeserved
points West Ham will earn this season. "The first half was not good," said
Bilic. "I said to the players at half-time, 'We have three good things.
First, the result. Second, we can't be much worse than this and third I
think we are going to win it because there is space for us to change it.' "
With their next match – a trip to struggling Swansea City – not until Boxing
Day, there is time for a few days off and a "couple of beers" for the
players. "You don't need a Christmas party to have a beer," Bilic said. "I
want them to enjoy that we had six points from these two demanding games.
They have to relax. If that requires a beer, OK, but there is something
between a couple of beers and getting smashed for three nights in a row."
There is unlikely to be much relaxation for Hull, who will spend Christmas
at the bottom of the league table. "We have to rally," said Phelan. "We have
to make sure that these players realise the small margins that it takes to
win a football match. I can only compliment them, pat them on the back and
say we go again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic cancels his West Ham Christmas party - but will allow players a
drink after back-to-back wins
Saturday's win over Hull was West Ham's second in a week to boost their
survival chances but Bilic admits he won't be able to enjoy a night out just
yet
BYNEIL MCLEMAN
22:30, 18 DEC 2016UPDATED18:26, 18 DEC 2016
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has cancelled his own Christmas party with West Ham still in
relegation danger – but told his players to enjoy a beer.
Seven points in three games have lifted spirits and the Hammers five points
clear of the drop zone. But the Croat coach said: "I told my staff we're
going to have a Christmas party in January or February. Because I want to
enjoy that night out and I can't. Okay I can enjoy it more than I could have
a week ago but I can't enjoy it. "It was a very demanding couple of weeks
for us after Liverpool, a very demanding couple of games for us mentally and
physically and we won them. "So they are going to have a couple of days off
now and then we are back in business, back in training." "You don't need a
Christmas party to have a beer," he said. "There is nothing wrong with
having a couple of beers at the right time, after the game, especially if
it's nine days until the next game. "I want them to be mentally free and
enjoy their life. I want them to enjoy we have six points from these two
games. They have to relax. There's something between a couple of beers and
getting smashed for three nights in a row."
Carroll and Darren Randolph were investigated in September after claims the
pair were still taking refreshments the day after a club-sanctioned night
out. "It's sorted and they weren't disciplined," Bilic said before joking:
"They can have a couple of cans each, but not alcoholic ones! "He (Carroll)
asked me last night if he can go home as his kids are home. He then came
straight back to the hotel. He could have sneaked out as it's only 30
minutes. On and off the pitch he gives you everything. "That's why I like
him so much. Do I trust him? Yeah, that's a good word. But I only still
don't trust him when he says he is okay and fit and play. But that's because
he always wants to play."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, December 19
Daily WHUFC News - 19th December 2016
Ogbonna - This has been a dream week
WHUFC.com
Angelo Ogbonna capped a dream week with another big win over Hull on
Saturday and is now looking forward to spending his first Christmas as a
father. Ogbonna was thrilled to see his side record back-to-back victories
and has enjoyed a memorable few days after his fiancé gave birth to a baby
boy called Samuel. The Italian defender was determined to end the week on a
high note and despite the Hammers not producing their best performance, they
still showed the character to come away with a crucial 1-0 victory. Ogbonna
is now hoping the Hammers can enjoy a festive Christmas period and enjoy a
second half to the season as they look to move towards the top half of the
table Ogbonna said: "It has been a very lucky week for me and my family. I
am so proud to have become a father and I want to say a big thank you to my
fiancée and it is very important. "We are so happy to get seven points and
we should not forget the point we got at Anfield last week which was really
important. "We have to keep going and stay concentrated. We didn't play well
against Hull but the most important thing is the three points and hopefully
we will play better in the next game. "I want to talk about our position in
the table which was better than the performance. We are staying positive
because we got three points and it is so important for everyone. The fans
stayed behind us and this is football. "I don't know how much this will turn
our season around. I want to stay focused on the present because sometimes
our mistake was sometimes setting our expectations too high and we have to
stay focused on the next game."
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James Corden enjoys London Stadium visit
WHUFC.com
James Corden made the most of a break back to the UK from his Los Angeles
home, by attending Saturday's 1-0 victory over Hull City at London Stadium.
The staunch Hammers fan, now a huge star on both sides of the Atlantic, was
at West Ham's new home for the first time and happily spent time before the
match signing autographs for fans. He even took on West Ham TV interview
duties at full-time, and you can see his hilarious chat with skipper Mark
Noble below!
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Academy present generous Christmas donation
WHUFC.com
The Club's Academy handed over their substantial donation of Christmas toys
over to two separate appeals this week
First, Time Radio benefitted from the Hammers' generosity before members of
the coaching and playing staff visited the Salvation Army
West Ham TV went along to the presentation of gifts and caught up with those
who played a huge role in the appeal
The Academy of Football did their bit to help those who are less fortunate
this Christmas by donating hundreds of children's toys to two separate toy
appeals this week. First, the Club teamed up with Time Radio – based in
Romford – to hand over half their generous donation of toys before visiting
the Salvation Army UK base in south London to present the remainder of their
contribution. With so many from the Academy either providing the collection
at Chadwell Heath with a children's toy, or digging deep into their pockets
to contribute some money towards the cause, an impressive assortment of
gifts was gathered.
Young Hammers Dan Kemp, Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Josh Pask, alongside coach
Liam Manning and kit man Andy Tyson went along to the Salvation Army, who
were delighted with the contribution. UK leader of the charity Clive Adams
said: "We're always grateful when people come to us with support like this,
which enables us to do our work. But it's especially good to see young
people with a profession that they're focused on, giving some time. "As role
models, those young people encourage other young people to do the same
thing. So it's especially good to see these young people from West Ham doing
this. "I don't think it's news to anyone that there are a lot of people in
our day who are struggling all over the place. In particular, though, in the
area where West Ham is. "There will be people who we have regular contact
with – people who come to our food banks, our church services, our debt
advice offices – there are many people in need. "They might not be able to
spare the extra pennies to offer their children something special for
Christmas, so this becomes very important for those people."
Kit man Andy Tyson, who with ladies manager and Academy coach Greg De Carnys
played a huge role in organising the toy appeal at Chadwell Heath, told West
Ham TV why it was great to play a part in the cause. "It's just brilliant,"
he said. "Seeing how many of the lads have brought in a present or donated
some money to the cause, it's nice that when we now put them under the tree,
it's great to see. They are going to go somewhere they will be appreciated.
It's been a good afternoon. "I'm sad to see some of the toys go! But,
somebody else is going to be benefitting from them and that's the most
important thing. "Everyone in the Academy, players and staff, they've all
made such an amazing contribution to a wonderful cause. "Whether that's a
present or a donation of money, it shows you how much they're thinking about
other people at this time of year and I think that's so important."
Finally, defender Pask, who is recovering from an injury which halted his
impressive progress on loan at Gillingham, explained why it was personally
special for him to visit the Salvation Army. The youngster said: "It's
great. This place is like a second work place for me as my Dad works here
and I did some work experience here. "It's good to come back and obviously
see some faces that I knew previously. It's also to give some presents back
to those in our community. "A lot of people go through some highs at
Christmas but for some people there are big lows and some are very lonely.
Any help we can offer by giving back to the community with things like this
is great. "It was also good to come into Chadwell Heath and see those
presents there every morning; it was colourful! Just before we walk into the
changing rooms, there was a massive pool of presents there for quite a
while, so it was great to see."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stat's a Fact - Spot-on Nobes
WHUFC.com
What a difference a week makes! West Ham claimed seven points in seven days
after last weekend's hard-fought draw at Liverpool and back-to-back home
wins against Burnley and Hull lifted us to 13th in the Barclays Premier
League.
With two goals in the week, captain Mark Noble played a huge part in the
Hammers' upturn in results. The second of which, a successful penalty kick
past Hull City's David Marshall, continued his near flawless career record
from the spot.
In fact, Noble first had the opportunity to extend his record on Wednesday
night against Burnley. Whilst his penalty was saved, the Hammers skipper was
able to poke in the re-bound to give us an all-important three points.
Even with his miss on Wednesday night, Mark has successfully converted 23
out of his last 25 penalty kicks in all competitions. Had it not been for
Tom Heaton's save, Nobes' record would have stood at just one missed penalty
in over seven-and-a-half years.
Mark Noble's penalty conversion was his third of the season
Mark sent Hull goalkeeper David Marshall the wrong way on Saturday
His first spot-kick in the Claret and Blue of West Ham came in a 1-0 victory
over Birmingham City in August 2007. Since then, Noble has taken a total of
32 penalties in all competitions for West Ham – scoring 28 and missing just
four: a conversion rate of 88%.
His penalties were the 54th and 57th of the current Premier League campaign
and the third and fourth awarded to West Ham this season. Elsewhere,
Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Leicester City and Liverpool top the
charts with five penalties awarded each. Meanwhile, at the other end of the
spectrum, yesterday saw visitors Hull City concede their tenth penalty of
the season – more than any other club.
As captain, Noble's influence over the side is in plain sight on a weekly
basis and outside of the penalty box, Noble was a key figure in the heart of
midfield once again yesterday.
Noble completed 57 passes and 70 touches in the middle of the park – the
most by any player, respectively. His 91 percent pass completion rate was
bettered only by Pedro Obiang (94 percent) and Winston Reid (93 percent),
proving once again his ability to pull the strings from deep is second to
none.
In more advanced areas, Noble had just one shot on goal yesterday afternoon
but, of course, it was the telling effort!
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The Post wins MOTM award!
WHUFC.com
The Claret and Blue Army showed their world-famous sense of humour by voting
'The Post' Man of the Match in Saturday's 1-0 win over Hull City.
Hull hit the frame of the goal three times before Mark Noble's penalty
sealed the points for Slaven Bilic's side - completing a week in which the
Hammers also drew 2-2 at Liverpool and beat Burnley 1-0 on home turf.
On Saturday, Tigers striker Dieumerci Mbokani hit one post in the first
half, before Noble headed against his own upright and Hull left-back Andrew
Robertson thundered an angled drive against the woodwork.
Prior to their visit to east London, Hull had hit the woodwork three times
in 16 matches. On Saturday, they doubled that tally in 90 minutes.
West Ham took full advantage, scoring a vital victory when Michail Antonio
was brought down by Tom Huddlestone and Noble - who hit a post in
Wednesday's win over Burnley - scored from the spot.
A poll on the Club's official Twitter account gave 'The Post' a chance to be
rewarded for its heroics, and 57% of 4,700 respondents gave it their vote.
The Post will now enjoy a well-earned rest over Christmas before returning
to action against Manchester United on 2 January.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Angelo Ogbonna capped a dream week with another big win over Hull on
Saturday and is now looking forward to spending his first Christmas as a
father. Ogbonna was thrilled to see his side record back-to-back victories
and has enjoyed a memorable few days after his fiancé gave birth to a baby
boy called Samuel. The Italian defender was determined to end the week on a
high note and despite the Hammers not producing their best performance, they
still showed the character to come away with a crucial 1-0 victory. Ogbonna
is now hoping the Hammers can enjoy a festive Christmas period and enjoy a
second half to the season as they look to move towards the top half of the
table Ogbonna said: "It has been a very lucky week for me and my family. I
am so proud to have become a father and I want to say a big thank you to my
fiancée and it is very important. "We are so happy to get seven points and
we should not forget the point we got at Anfield last week which was really
important. "We have to keep going and stay concentrated. We didn't play well
against Hull but the most important thing is the three points and hopefully
we will play better in the next game. "I want to talk about our position in
the table which was better than the performance. We are staying positive
because we got three points and it is so important for everyone. The fans
stayed behind us and this is football. "I don't know how much this will turn
our season around. I want to stay focused on the present because sometimes
our mistake was sometimes setting our expectations too high and we have to
stay focused on the next game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Corden enjoys London Stadium visit
WHUFC.com
James Corden made the most of a break back to the UK from his Los Angeles
home, by attending Saturday's 1-0 victory over Hull City at London Stadium.
The staunch Hammers fan, now a huge star on both sides of the Atlantic, was
at West Ham's new home for the first time and happily spent time before the
match signing autographs for fans. He even took on West Ham TV interview
duties at full-time, and you can see his hilarious chat with skipper Mark
Noble below!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Academy present generous Christmas donation
WHUFC.com
The Club's Academy handed over their substantial donation of Christmas toys
over to two separate appeals this week
First, Time Radio benefitted from the Hammers' generosity before members of
the coaching and playing staff visited the Salvation Army
West Ham TV went along to the presentation of gifts and caught up with those
who played a huge role in the appeal
The Academy of Football did their bit to help those who are less fortunate
this Christmas by donating hundreds of children's toys to two separate toy
appeals this week. First, the Club teamed up with Time Radio – based in
Romford – to hand over half their generous donation of toys before visiting
the Salvation Army UK base in south London to present the remainder of their
contribution. With so many from the Academy either providing the collection
at Chadwell Heath with a children's toy, or digging deep into their pockets
to contribute some money towards the cause, an impressive assortment of
gifts was gathered.
Young Hammers Dan Kemp, Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Josh Pask, alongside coach
Liam Manning and kit man Andy Tyson went along to the Salvation Army, who
were delighted with the contribution. UK leader of the charity Clive Adams
said: "We're always grateful when people come to us with support like this,
which enables us to do our work. But it's especially good to see young
people with a profession that they're focused on, giving some time. "As role
models, those young people encourage other young people to do the same
thing. So it's especially good to see these young people from West Ham doing
this. "I don't think it's news to anyone that there are a lot of people in
our day who are struggling all over the place. In particular, though, in the
area where West Ham is. "There will be people who we have regular contact
with – people who come to our food banks, our church services, our debt
advice offices – there are many people in need. "They might not be able to
spare the extra pennies to offer their children something special for
Christmas, so this becomes very important for those people."
Kit man Andy Tyson, who with ladies manager and Academy coach Greg De Carnys
played a huge role in organising the toy appeal at Chadwell Heath, told West
Ham TV why it was great to play a part in the cause. "It's just brilliant,"
he said. "Seeing how many of the lads have brought in a present or donated
some money to the cause, it's nice that when we now put them under the tree,
it's great to see. They are going to go somewhere they will be appreciated.
It's been a good afternoon. "I'm sad to see some of the toys go! But,
somebody else is going to be benefitting from them and that's the most
important thing. "Everyone in the Academy, players and staff, they've all
made such an amazing contribution to a wonderful cause. "Whether that's a
present or a donation of money, it shows you how much they're thinking about
other people at this time of year and I think that's so important."
Finally, defender Pask, who is recovering from an injury which halted his
impressive progress on loan at Gillingham, explained why it was personally
special for him to visit the Salvation Army. The youngster said: "It's
great. This place is like a second work place for me as my Dad works here
and I did some work experience here. "It's good to come back and obviously
see some faces that I knew previously. It's also to give some presents back
to those in our community. "A lot of people go through some highs at
Christmas but for some people there are big lows and some are very lonely.
Any help we can offer by giving back to the community with things like this
is great. "It was also good to come into Chadwell Heath and see those
presents there every morning; it was colourful! Just before we walk into the
changing rooms, there was a massive pool of presents there for quite a
while, so it was great to see."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stat's a Fact - Spot-on Nobes
WHUFC.com
What a difference a week makes! West Ham claimed seven points in seven days
after last weekend's hard-fought draw at Liverpool and back-to-back home
wins against Burnley and Hull lifted us to 13th in the Barclays Premier
League.
With two goals in the week, captain Mark Noble played a huge part in the
Hammers' upturn in results. The second of which, a successful penalty kick
past Hull City's David Marshall, continued his near flawless career record
from the spot.
In fact, Noble first had the opportunity to extend his record on Wednesday
night against Burnley. Whilst his penalty was saved, the Hammers skipper was
able to poke in the re-bound to give us an all-important three points.
Even with his miss on Wednesday night, Mark has successfully converted 23
out of his last 25 penalty kicks in all competitions. Had it not been for
Tom Heaton's save, Nobes' record would have stood at just one missed penalty
in over seven-and-a-half years.
Mark Noble's penalty conversion was his third of the season
Mark sent Hull goalkeeper David Marshall the wrong way on Saturday
His first spot-kick in the Claret and Blue of West Ham came in a 1-0 victory
over Birmingham City in August 2007. Since then, Noble has taken a total of
32 penalties in all competitions for West Ham – scoring 28 and missing just
four: a conversion rate of 88%.
His penalties were the 54th and 57th of the current Premier League campaign
and the third and fourth awarded to West Ham this season. Elsewhere,
Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Leicester City and Liverpool top the
charts with five penalties awarded each. Meanwhile, at the other end of the
spectrum, yesterday saw visitors Hull City concede their tenth penalty of
the season – more than any other club.
As captain, Noble's influence over the side is in plain sight on a weekly
basis and outside of the penalty box, Noble was a key figure in the heart of
midfield once again yesterday.
Noble completed 57 passes and 70 touches in the middle of the park – the
most by any player, respectively. His 91 percent pass completion rate was
bettered only by Pedro Obiang (94 percent) and Winston Reid (93 percent),
proving once again his ability to pull the strings from deep is second to
none.
In more advanced areas, Noble had just one shot on goal yesterday afternoon
but, of course, it was the telling effort!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Post wins MOTM award!
WHUFC.com
The Claret and Blue Army showed their world-famous sense of humour by voting
'The Post' Man of the Match in Saturday's 1-0 win over Hull City.
Hull hit the frame of the goal three times before Mark Noble's penalty
sealed the points for Slaven Bilic's side - completing a week in which the
Hammers also drew 2-2 at Liverpool and beat Burnley 1-0 on home turf.
On Saturday, Tigers striker Dieumerci Mbokani hit one post in the first
half, before Noble headed against his own upright and Hull left-back Andrew
Robertson thundered an angled drive against the woodwork.
Prior to their visit to east London, Hull had hit the woodwork three times
in 16 matches. On Saturday, they doubled that tally in 90 minutes.
West Ham took full advantage, scoring a vital victory when Michail Antonio
was brought down by Tom Huddlestone and Noble - who hit a post in
Wednesday's win over Burnley - scored from the spot.
A poll on the Club's official Twitter account gave 'The Post' a chance to be
rewarded for its heroics, and 57% of 4,700 respondents gave it their vote.
The Post will now enjoy a well-earned rest over Christmas before returning
to action against Manchester United on 2 January.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, December 17
Daily WHUFC News - 18th December 2016
Captain scores crucial winner once again
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble scored the decisive winner for the second consecutive game to
help West Ham record a crucial 1-0 win over Hull and make it back-to-back
victories at London Stadium. Slaven Bilic admitted the Club's season could
turn around with two home wins over Burnley and Hull and that proved to be
the case as Noble stole the headlines once again with another match-winning
goal. The Hammers manager will know his side were fortunate to come away
with all three points after Hull hit the woodwork three times and saw a
header cleared off the line. But the players still showed the character to
come away with a priceless victory after Michail Antonio was brought down
inside the area by Tom Huddlestone and Noble made no mistake firing the
spot-kick into the corner of the net. It was the first time West Ham had
secured back-to-back victories since April when they beat Watford and West
Brom and Bilic will be hoping this will be the perfect confidence boost as
the Hammers prepare for a busy festive period. Former Hammers favourite Joe
Cole and Hollywood star James Corden were in the crowd to see the victory
and enjoyed their first visits to London Stadium. Bilic was hoping to see
his side record consecutive victories for the first time this season, but
they struggled to find their best form and were fortunate to go in at
half-time on level terms. Hull could have opened the scoring on 19 minutes
when Dieumerci Mbokani picked up the ball on the edge of the box and turned
Cheikhou Kouyate before dragging a shot wide of the post. Mbokani came even
closer sixty seconds later following a poor backpass from Aaron Cresswell.
The Hull forward picked up the loose ball and struck ball past Darren
Randolph, but his effort came back off the inside of the post. The Hammers
keeper had to be at his best to keep his side in the game on 24 minutes.
Robert Snodgrass corner picked out Harry Maguire who rose the highest in the
box and saw his close-range header produce a superb save from Randolph
diving away to his left.
Bilic knew he needed to do something at half-time to change the game around
and made a double substitution bringing on Andre Ayew and Edimilson
Fernandes to replace Manuel Lanzini and Obiang. But Hull continued to create
the best openings and were twice denied by the woodwork in the opening 15
minutes of the second half. Andrew Roberton's cross on 58 minutes was turned
against his own post by Mark Noble's diving header. And just just two
minutes later Robertson burst his way into the area and saw his powerful
shot strike the post once again. The Hammers finally woke up and could have
broken the deadlock against the run of play on 64 minutes when Ayew saw his
header cleared off the line by Robertson. Hull must have sensed it was not
going to be their day after Maguire saw his header cleared off the line by
Fernandes. And that proved to be the case as Noble scored the crucial winner
on 75 minutes after Michail Antonio had been brought down inside the box by
Huddlestone. After missing from the spot against Burnley on Wednesday night,
Noble made no mistake this time around sending David Marshall the wrong way.
Both Payet and Antonio had chances to seal the victory late in the game, but
the Hammers held on for another crucial three points as they look to force
their way into the top half of the table.
West Ham: Randolph, Reid, Cresswell, Kouyate, Carroll, Lanzini (Ayew 46),
Obiang (Fernandes 46), Noble, Ogbonna, Payet (Nordtveit 90), Antonio
Subs not used: Adrian, Feghouli, Fletcher, Quina
Bookings: Obiang, Noble
Hull City: Marshall, Robertson, Maguire, Davies, Huddlestone (Bowen 86),
Snodgrass, Clucas, Livermore (Henriksen 69), Mbokani (Diomande 69), Dawson,
Elmohamady
Subs not used: Jakupovic, Meyler, Maloney, Weir
Bookings: Livermore, Dawson, Henriksen, Maguire
Referee: Lee Mason
Attendance: 56,952
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Skipper hails 'massive' Hull victory
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble delighted with back-to-back home wins over Burnley and Hull City
Captain scored the winner for the second match in succession at London
Stadium
Hammers up to 13th after collecting seven points in the space of seven days
Mark Noble says West Ham United can go into Christmas with confidence after
securing seven Premier League points in the space of seven days. The skipper
netted the winner for the second game in succession to see the Hammers past
struggling Hull City at London Stadium in the final home game of 2016. West
Ham rode their luck against the Tigers, who hit the post no fewer than three
times during a fraught 90 minutes, before Noble confidently slotted home his
fourth of the season after Tom Huddlestone had fouled Michail Antonio.
"Seven points in a week is massive for us, as are two clean sheets at home
and two 1-0 wins. They weren't the best performances, but these are the
games you have to win. "Hull and Burnley are probably the most honest,
hard-working teams in the league but we competed with them and kept two
clean sheets. "The result was 100 per cent more important than the
performance. In the position we're in, hopefully not any longer, so in the
position we were in, winning is all that matters. This is a results
business. Results breed confidence and hopefully that's starting to build
itself up."
Noble conceded that the Hammers had been fortunate to see off Mike Phelan's
side, with the captain himself heading a cross against his own post during
one particularly nervy second-half period. "I've headed one onto my own
post and it came back out, and sometimes those go in against you," he
observed. "I've not seen the penalty, to be honest, so I don't know if it
was or it wasn't, but who cares! "I've said many times before, the amount
of penalties I have taken and will take, I'm bound to miss one from time to
time, and luckily enough when I missed on Wednesday it popped back out to me
and I scored. "I had another one today and was confident I was going to
score it."
Having drawn 2-2 at Liverpool and beaten Burnley 1-0 at home prior to
Saturday's success, West Ham have now established a five-point gap between
themselves and the bottom three. Having finished seventh last season, the
match-winner now wants the Hammers to kick on in away games at Swansea City
and Leicester City over the festive season. "I'm hoping it's time to look
up for us, rather than down. It's been a really big week for us and all
we've got to do is win games because that puts pressure on other clubs.
"We've got nine days now until our next game, so we've got a little bit
of a rest after three games in a week and hopefully we can go away to
Swansea and get some points. "I'm hoping this can be a really productive
Christmas. I would have snapped your hand off for seven points this week
with Liverpool away after a big defeat here against Arsenal, and two really
tough home games where we've kept clean sheets, which were massive. "Like
I said, we can look forward now."
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Bilic - It's a massively important three points
WHUFC.com
Bilic delighted with result against Hull City, but admits his team were
fortunate
Hull hit the woodwork three times, but Hammers won 1-0
Boss says team will be able to play with more freedom having taken seven
points from three games
Slaven Bilic admitted his West Ham United team rode their luck en route to
taking three points against Hull City on Saturday. Mark Noble's second half
penalty gave the Hammers a second London Stadium victory of the week, but
only after the visitors had struck home woodwork three times. The boss
changed the system at half-time, bringing Andre Ayew and Edimilson Fernandes
off the bench as he switched to four at the back, and he felt that resulted
in a final half-hour in which the Hammers raised their game. The end result
was maximum points - making it seven in three games and lifting the east
Londoners up to 13th in the Premier League table - and that was all that
concerned Bilic. "It's a great three points for us," he explained. "It was a
very nervy game - we didn't do enough in the first half and we changed the
system. We had to put a couple of players on then, because one wouldn't have
been enough. "The first good thing is the result, the second is that [first
half performance] can't be worse. "In the last half-an-hour we stepped up a
gear and found ourselves in good positions on the pitch. We were attacking
in numbers and defending much better. "We had a few chances in that time -
they also had chances, mostly in the first half, and then scored in the
right moment.
"After that we should have finished the game but we didn't. It's a massively
important three points for us. "It is important that we've recorded
back-to-back wins here at London Stadium. We showed the character and we
showed a good last half-hour, but the most important thing out of this game
is to win it. "It was hard to expect flashy football in this period because
of the position we are in, but we have climbed the table a bit now. "We are
still there, but we should have much more confidence and be able to play
much more freely now after these seven points from three games."
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From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan reflects on an important week - and seven
vital points - for West Ham United
As Mark Noble said, it has been a massively important week for West Ham
United. When we kicked-off at Liverpool last Sunday, we were in the bottom
three with 12 points from 14 games and were looking short of confidence and
belief. However, Slaven Bilic and the players have responded as I expected
them to, with character and resilience. The result has been seven points
from three matches, two clean sheets and back-to-back Premier League wins at
London Stadium for the first time. We are up to 13th in the table, just four
points off seventh going into two winnable games over the festive period.
Talking of Christmas, we're offering 20 per cent off the Home shirt on
Sunday, so make sure you visit the Online Store to take advantage and get
your shopping done! While a week ago things looked a bit bleak, we can now
enjoy our Christmas and go to Swansea City on Boxing Day with real optimism.
Don't get me wrong, Saturday's 1-0 win over Hull City was not a good
performance and we rode our luck, but we have been due some luck. However,
the game was all about the result, that was the only think that mattered. As
Slaven said himself, our first-half performance was not particularly good,
but we did not let Hull score - with a bit of help from the goalpost - and
then improved after some changes at half-time. The second half was better,
and we created chances either side of Mark Noble's penalty. In addition,
Andy Carroll came through a full game for the first time since August,
Cheikhou Kouyate and Winston Reid were immense in defence, Michail Antonio
never stopped running - the whole team worked together to get the win. I've
been in football more than long enough to know you don't always get what
you deserve, and Hull will feel hard done by, as I have said already, the
result was all that mattered. The way the team fought together and overcame
a well-organised team with grit and determination clearly impressed the
supporters, who yet again stuck with the players, who were playing their
third game in seven days. The atmosphere in the second half was very good
and was another illustration of how loud it can get inside London Stadium.
Thank you again for your outstanding support and another trouble-free game,
and for really getting behind the team when they needed you. We can now look
upwards and forwards, rather than downwards and backwards.
If we can win at Swansea on Boxing Day, which is definitely within our
capabilities, we could find ourselves in the top half of the table and
nearer to where we want to be at the end of the season. We are also getting
closer to the start of the transfer window, when we hope to bring in some
quality reinforcements to further strengthen the squad. We are aware that
there are some gaps to be filled, particularly with the African Cup of
Nations starting in January, and you can be sure we will be working morning,
noon and night to bring in the right players to help push us further up the
standings. Before then, we have two away matches to end what has been a
momentous, historic year for our wonderful Football Club. Thank you again
for joining us on what continues to be an exciting and, I am sure,
ultimately successful journey. The future is bright.
Come on you Irons!
David Sullivan
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1-0 Hull City
By Jamie Strickland
BBC Sport
Mark Noble's controversial penalty was enough to give West Ham an
unconvincing victory over luckless Hull City at London Stadium. Mike
Phelan's visitors hit the frame of the goal three times before the hosts
went ahead after Tom Huddlestone was adjudged to have brought down Michail
Antonio in the area with 14 minutes left. The Hull midfielder had his hands
on Antonio but the contact appeared minimal. Referee Lee Mason thought
otherwise and Noble stepped up to fire West Ham to back-to-back home Premier
League wins for the first time at their new home. Dieumerci Mbokani had
earlier hit the woodwork for Hull when one-on-one with Darren Randolph,
before Noble struck his own post as he attempted to clear Andrew Robertson's
cross. Robertson made it a hat-trick of efforts off the post with a
thunderous drive that beat Randolph but not the frame of the goal. A seventh
straight away defeat allied to Sunderland's victory over Watford means Hull
will spend Christmas bottom of the table, while West Ham - after taking
seven points in a week - move five points clear of trouble.
Hull pay huge price for missed chances
Hull carved out 16 shots at the London Stadium but saw Darren Randolph save
four times (red dots), Edimilson Fernandes clear off the line (orange) and
two come back off the post (blue). Mark Noble's header against his own post
is not shown here Defeats do not come much harsher than this - and finishing
the day bottom of the table after such a display is going to be a huge
psychological blow for Hull's players to overcome. Hull, seeking a league
win away to the Hammers for the first time since 1990, took the game to the
hosts from the outset and created countless chances to score. Defender Harry
Maguire saw Randolph save his header from a corner and then had a header
cleared off the line in the second half by Edimilson Fernandes. Mbokani,
back after a three-match ban, really should have scored when he latched on
to Aaron Cresswell's under-hit back-pass in the first half, but instead
contrived to hit the inside of the upright as he tried to curl the ball
beyond Randolph. Robertson was impressive down the left and he sent over a
teasing cross early in the second half that Noble nodded at pace on to his
own post with Randolph beaten. Moments later the Hull left-back let fly from
20 yards with a searing shot, but again it was against the woodwork and not
in the net.
Hammers dig in for another gritty win
All three of West Ham's league wins at London Stadium before Hull's visit
had been by a 1-0 scoreline - so the final score on Saturday probably earned
some punters a few quid. While the table makes good reading right now, the
fact remains that this was a largely disjointed performance by the hosts -
one that had many fans expressing their discontent at the half-time whistle.
Manager Slaven Bilic was far from happy after an opening 45 minutes in which
Hull dominated, and responded at the interval bringing on Andre Ayew and
Fernandes for Manuel Lanzini and Pedro Obiang. West Ham improved as the game
wore on and very nearly went ahead when Ayew's header was cleared off the
line by Robertson, but their threat remained largely limited - with Andy
Carroll shackled by the Hull back three of Maguire, Michael Dawson and
Curtis Davies.
But no-one can accuse West Ham of not taking their chances when they were
presented this past week, first in the draw with Liverpool last Sunday and
again in narrow wins over Burnley and now Hull.
Man of the match - Harry Maguire
Despite being part of a three-man back line, Harry Maguire made his presence
felt all over the pitch. He played his part in keeping Andy Carroll quiet at
one end, while at the other he managed a team-high four shots on target -
forcing Darren Randolph into one fine save and seeing another cleared off
the line. He also led the Tigers in total passes with 42 - 22 of those in
the West Ham half - total touches (66) and total tackles (five)
Reaction: 'We were sloppy, they were better'
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "In the first half definitely we were
fortunate. We were sloppy, they were better. "At half-time I said there are
a couple of good things, one that it is still 0-0 and second that it can't
be much worse, we can lift up the tempo. "In the second half we were much
better, in the last half an hour we were really good. We scored the goal and
should have finished the game. "It is a massive three points for us.
Back-to-back wins, in this stadium, are very good considering the situation
we were in. "Am I pleased with our performance? No I'm not. Am I pleased
with our reaction? I am, but we have to play for 90 minutes."
Hull boss Mike Phelan: "It's difficult when your team are doing ever so
well, you feel for them because you want them to score the goals and get the
credit. If we can play like that, we just need a stroke of genius or luck to
get us goals. "The post is there to stand in the way of a goal and it did
that a few times today. "You have to have a wry smile on your face or you'd
be very, very depressed."
On the penalty decision that went against his team."I am not going to go
down that road finding fault with the referee's decision. I think West Ham
have got away with one."
Hull defender Andrew Robertson: "Anyone who watches the highlights will see
we dominated the game. We had so many chances and have been done by a soft
penalty. "That is probably our best performance of the season and it ends up
with us bottom of the league. That is the beauty of football. We have got to
hope it turns around for us. "First half we went in and West Ham were booed
off. I can't believe we've not scored today. "Their manager said we were the
better team."
Stats you need to know: Hull misery at West Ham continues
West Ham have won seven consecutive league games at home against Hull City
Mark Noble has scored 15 of his past 17 penalties taken in the Premier
League
Noble has scored in consecutive PL home games for the first time ever
Hull have conceded the first goal of the game on 14 occasions this season in
the Premier League; more often than any other team
West Ham's past seven Premier League goals against Hull have all come in the
second half of games
The Tigers are on a run of seven successive away defeats in the Premier
League and they have failed to score in the past five of these
Dimitri Payet created six goalscoring chances versus Hull; three times as
many as any other West Ham player
What's next?
The Boxing Day fixtures are next up for these two. West Ham travel to
second-bottom Swansea at 15:00 GMT, while Hull play host to Manchester City
at 17:15 GMT.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1-0 HULL CITY - MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 17 DECEMBER 2016 AT 6:20PM
TheWesTHamWay.co.uk
By @WestHamAmerican
West Ham defeated Hull City today, 1-0 in a Saturday afternoon match at the
London Stadium. Both teams arrived after a busy week of matches sitting on
the wrong end of the table. But a sloppy 1-0 victory against Burnley gave
the hosts a bit of momentum to work off of as Christmas approaches.
Both sides employed a wingback formation with three in the back. Slaven
Bilic used the same starting eleven as he did during his midweek victory
over Burnley. In the early going West Ham was the aggressor with
possession. During the first ten minutes Hull keeper, David Marshall, was
under pressure. Only five minutes in he appeared to pull up with a thigh
injury but after attention by the physio he remained in goal.
Dieumerci Mbokani had an early chance to take the lead. 19 minutes in he
was only a yard wide of goal on a tight shot. A minute later, the London
Stadium crowd gasped as Aaron Cresswell's uncharacteristically weak
backpass to Darren Randolph was short, and Mbokani took on the Hammer's
goalkeeper one-on-one. Miraculously his open goal shot only hit the post.
The final moments of the opening half were all Hull. Livermore, Maguire,
and Mbokani all had chances to take the lead. West Ham seemed to oblige
Mike Phelan's side by giving up possession multiple times in the midfield.
Hull showed stout defending and seemed resolve in not giving Andy Carroll
any chance to damage them on set plays.
After three minutes of added time, the first half ended with a 0-0 score.
One bit of first half damage was Lee Mason's booking Pedro Obiang. This
yellow card earned the Spaniard a suspension during the Boxing Day match at
Swansea.
As the second half opened, Bilic made formation changes bringing on Ayew and
Fernandes for Lanzini and Obiang respectively. Placing Kouyate at right
back, he hoped to spread the field a bit but the unintended consequence was
a wide open midfield that gave Hull free reign to counterattack unimpeded.
Fortunately luck was on West Ham's side.
Disaster almost struck the Hammers when a Mark Noble header to clear a
Robertson cross hit his own post, barely missing a 1-0 own goal. A moment
later, Robertson hit the post again. The drama and back-and-forth of the
play were unexpected for a 0-0 match between two bottom of table clubs.
Finally in the 75th West Ham received their opportunity when Michail Antonio
was brought down in the penalty area by Tom Huddlestone and the home club
was awarded a spot kick. With less drama than Wednesday, captain Mark Noble
took care of business and the Hammers had their 1-0 lead.
Just like Wednesday's match West Ham had some scares and opportunities but
managed to hang on for the narrow and sloppy victory. With three matches in
seven days, Bilic's side has a break to heal up prior to the Boxing Day
journey to Swansea. Despite the poor and disjointed showing for two
consecutive matches, the Hammers did take seven points from three matches,
including an impressive point at Anfield.
Hopefully Bilic and company will find some answers as this team continues to
climb towards safety. Historically, this club hasn't found great answers
in the January transfer window so a return to consistent form will probably
have to come from within the current roster.
Keep reading the West Ham Way for all the latest transfer news.
West Ham: Randolph, Kouyate, Reid, Ogbonna, Antonio, Noble, Obiang,
Cresswell, Lanzini, Payet, Carroll
Subs: Nordtveit (93′), Feghouli, Adrian, Ayew (45′), Fletcher, Fernandes
(45′), Quina.
Bookings: Obiang (36') Noble (60′)
Hull: Marshall, Maguire, Dawson, Davies, Elmohamady, Livermore, Huddlestone,
Clucas, Robertson, Snodgrass, Mbokani
Subs: Meyler, Maloney, Jakupovic, Weir, Diomande, Henriksen (69′), Bowen
(86′)
Bookings: Livermore (32') Dawson (74′) Henriksen (84′) Maguire (95′)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mike Phelan says Hull should have been out of sight before West Ham winner
Last Updated: 17/12/16 7:18pm
SSN
Mike Phelan admits Hull should have been out of sight long before West Ham
stole a 1-0 win to leave the Tigers bottom of the Premier League. For the
second time in three days Hammers skipper Mark Noble stepped up to the
penalty spot to secure an unconvincing victory for the hosts. But Hull were
left wondering just how they left the London Stadium empty-handed after
being denied by the woodwork three times and having an effort cleared off
the line. That's the nature of the industry, sometimes good performances
don't give you the results you want," said Hull manager Phelan. "I wouldn't
say the penalty cost us the game as we should have been out of sight before
then. "Everything that could have happened against a football team happened
to us. We probably won't see anything like that again this season.
"Performances like that should at some point merit results. But we've been
in the game long enough to know that when opportunities come along like that
you have to be ruthless. "We had more than enough chances to win a few
football matches."
Phelan refused to be drawn on the dubious penalty decision by referee Lee
Mason, which even Hammers boss Slaven Bilic admitted was probably soft.
After the ball had bounced around the Hull area, Tom Huddlestone dragged
down Michail Antonio, which Mason deemed to be a foul, leaving Noble to slot
the ball home for the winner.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says West Ham 'weren't good' in victory over Hull
Last Updated: 17/12/16 9:05pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says his side were "not good" in their 1-0 win
over Hull, but insists the points are most important. The Hammers climbed to
13th after picking up a second win on the trot at London Stadium, meaning
they have seven points from their last three games. Mark Noble's penalty 14
minutes from time was enough for the Hammers, but Bilic was frank about his
side's performance. "It's a great three points for us. It was a very nervous
game. First half we just weren't there enough for a Premier League game. We
weren't good," he said. "For a long period it looked like they deserved
something. We weren't good. But in the last half-hour we stepped up a gear
and our pressure got the penalty. "At the end of the day I'd love to have
played better but these last couple of games were all about results. "We
got six points out of them and that was the objective. Especially last half
an hour, we stepped up a gear and found ourselves in good positions on the
pitch.
It is the Hammers' first back-to-back league wins at their new stadium, and
Bilic says the victory will give them momentum and more confidence going
into the Christmas period. "It is important, we showed the character and a
good second half, but the most important thing out of this game is to win
it. "We have climbed a bit, but we should now have more confidence and we
should not play much more free after these seven points from the three
games. "Now it should give us confidence. We are still not in the position
we would like to be in, but it's much better than it was a week ago." "It
wasn't good enough. We put ourselves in many 'oh my God situations'. I would
like us to play better but these couple of games [Burnley and Hull] were all
about results."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1-0 Hull City: Mark Noble penalty hands Hammers win
By Gerard Brand
Last Updated: 17/12/16 9:05pm
SSN
Mark Noble's penalty 14 minutes from time gave West Ham a narrow 1-0 win
over Hull City at London Stadium on Saturday. Three days after his winner
against Burnley, it was captain Noble who gave West Ham the three points
again, rolling a penalty home after Tom Huddlestone brought down Michail
Antonio. Dieumerci Mbokani hit the post for Hull in the first half after
capitalising on Aaron Cresswell's mistake, before Noble nearly diverted into
his own net after half-time, hitting the bottom of the woodwork with a
header. The result leaves West Ham 13th following their first back-to-back
Premier League wins at London Stadium, while Hull are now bottom, having won
just once in 14 league games. Andy Carroll started consecutive league games
for the first time this season, while Mbokani came in for Adama Diomande for
Hull. Michael Dawson did well to block Dimitri Payet's effort from inside
the area early on, but Hull had most of the chances in the first half in
east London. Mbokani struck inches wide from 20 yards, before the Congolese
striker missed the best chance of the opening 45 minutes, hitting the inside
of the post after latching onto Cresswell's poor backpass to go through on
goal. Darren Randolph then beat away Harry Maguire's header from a Robert
Snodgrass corner, while Pedro Obiang nearly diverted the ball into his own
net as he snuffed out Maguire in the area before the break. Hull continued
to create the chances after half-time, as Noble headed onto his own post
past Randolph from Andrew Robertson's cross, before Robertson himself hit
the post from inside the area with a fierce left-footed effort that looked
destined for goal. Robertson then cleared off the line from Andre Ayew's
header from Payet's corner, while David Marshall saved well from Antonio's
left-footed shot from an angle. Edimilson Fernandes cleared off the line at
the other end from Maguire's header, before the breakthrough came in the
76th minute. After the ball bounced around the Hull area, Huddlestone
dragged down Antonio, deemed by Lee Mason to be a foul, leaving Noble to
slot the ball home for the winner. Maguire could have equalised for Hull
late on, but Randolph kept out the defender's effort from an angle when
squaring for team-mates looked the better option.
Player ratings
West Ham: Randolph (6), Kouyate (7), Reid (6), Ogbonna (6), Antonio (6),
Noble (6), Obiang (6), Cresswell (5), Lanzini (5), Payet (6), Carroll (5).
Subs: Ayew (6), Fernandes (6), Nordtveit (NA)
Hull: Marshall (6), Maguire (6), Dawson (6), Davies (6), Elmohamady (5),
Livermore (5), Huddlestone (5), Clucas (5), Robertson (6), Snodgrass (6),
Mbokani (5)
Subs: Diomande (5), Henriksen (5), Bowen (NA).
Man of the match: Cheikhou Kouyate
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble scored the decisive winner for the second consecutive game to
help West Ham record a crucial 1-0 win over Hull and make it back-to-back
victories at London Stadium. Slaven Bilic admitted the Club's season could
turn around with two home wins over Burnley and Hull and that proved to be
the case as Noble stole the headlines once again with another match-winning
goal. The Hammers manager will know his side were fortunate to come away
with all three points after Hull hit the woodwork three times and saw a
header cleared off the line. But the players still showed the character to
come away with a priceless victory after Michail Antonio was brought down
inside the area by Tom Huddlestone and Noble made no mistake firing the
spot-kick into the corner of the net. It was the first time West Ham had
secured back-to-back victories since April when they beat Watford and West
Brom and Bilic will be hoping this will be the perfect confidence boost as
the Hammers prepare for a busy festive period. Former Hammers favourite Joe
Cole and Hollywood star James Corden were in the crowd to see the victory
and enjoyed their first visits to London Stadium. Bilic was hoping to see
his side record consecutive victories for the first time this season, but
they struggled to find their best form and were fortunate to go in at
half-time on level terms. Hull could have opened the scoring on 19 minutes
when Dieumerci Mbokani picked up the ball on the edge of the box and turned
Cheikhou Kouyate before dragging a shot wide of the post. Mbokani came even
closer sixty seconds later following a poor backpass from Aaron Cresswell.
The Hull forward picked up the loose ball and struck ball past Darren
Randolph, but his effort came back off the inside of the post. The Hammers
keeper had to be at his best to keep his side in the game on 24 minutes.
Robert Snodgrass corner picked out Harry Maguire who rose the highest in the
box and saw his close-range header produce a superb save from Randolph
diving away to his left.
Bilic knew he needed to do something at half-time to change the game around
and made a double substitution bringing on Andre Ayew and Edimilson
Fernandes to replace Manuel Lanzini and Obiang. But Hull continued to create
the best openings and were twice denied by the woodwork in the opening 15
minutes of the second half. Andrew Roberton's cross on 58 minutes was turned
against his own post by Mark Noble's diving header. And just just two
minutes later Robertson burst his way into the area and saw his powerful
shot strike the post once again. The Hammers finally woke up and could have
broken the deadlock against the run of play on 64 minutes when Ayew saw his
header cleared off the line by Robertson. Hull must have sensed it was not
going to be their day after Maguire saw his header cleared off the line by
Fernandes. And that proved to be the case as Noble scored the crucial winner
on 75 minutes after Michail Antonio had been brought down inside the box by
Huddlestone. After missing from the spot against Burnley on Wednesday night,
Noble made no mistake this time around sending David Marshall the wrong way.
Both Payet and Antonio had chances to seal the victory late in the game, but
the Hammers held on for another crucial three points as they look to force
their way into the top half of the table.
West Ham: Randolph, Reid, Cresswell, Kouyate, Carroll, Lanzini (Ayew 46),
Obiang (Fernandes 46), Noble, Ogbonna, Payet (Nordtveit 90), Antonio
Subs not used: Adrian, Feghouli, Fletcher, Quina
Bookings: Obiang, Noble
Hull City: Marshall, Robertson, Maguire, Davies, Huddlestone (Bowen 86),
Snodgrass, Clucas, Livermore (Henriksen 69), Mbokani (Diomande 69), Dawson,
Elmohamady
Subs not used: Jakupovic, Meyler, Maloney, Weir
Bookings: Livermore, Dawson, Henriksen, Maguire
Referee: Lee Mason
Attendance: 56,952
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Skipper hails 'massive' Hull victory
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble delighted with back-to-back home wins over Burnley and Hull City
Captain scored the winner for the second match in succession at London
Stadium
Hammers up to 13th after collecting seven points in the space of seven days
Mark Noble says West Ham United can go into Christmas with confidence after
securing seven Premier League points in the space of seven days. The skipper
netted the winner for the second game in succession to see the Hammers past
struggling Hull City at London Stadium in the final home game of 2016. West
Ham rode their luck against the Tigers, who hit the post no fewer than three
times during a fraught 90 minutes, before Noble confidently slotted home his
fourth of the season after Tom Huddlestone had fouled Michail Antonio.
"Seven points in a week is massive for us, as are two clean sheets at home
and two 1-0 wins. They weren't the best performances, but these are the
games you have to win. "Hull and Burnley are probably the most honest,
hard-working teams in the league but we competed with them and kept two
clean sheets. "The result was 100 per cent more important than the
performance. In the position we're in, hopefully not any longer, so in the
position we were in, winning is all that matters. This is a results
business. Results breed confidence and hopefully that's starting to build
itself up."
Noble conceded that the Hammers had been fortunate to see off Mike Phelan's
side, with the captain himself heading a cross against his own post during
one particularly nervy second-half period. "I've headed one onto my own
post and it came back out, and sometimes those go in against you," he
observed. "I've not seen the penalty, to be honest, so I don't know if it
was or it wasn't, but who cares! "I've said many times before, the amount
of penalties I have taken and will take, I'm bound to miss one from time to
time, and luckily enough when I missed on Wednesday it popped back out to me
and I scored. "I had another one today and was confident I was going to
score it."
Having drawn 2-2 at Liverpool and beaten Burnley 1-0 at home prior to
Saturday's success, West Ham have now established a five-point gap between
themselves and the bottom three. Having finished seventh last season, the
match-winner now wants the Hammers to kick on in away games at Swansea City
and Leicester City over the festive season. "I'm hoping it's time to look
up for us, rather than down. It's been a really big week for us and all
we've got to do is win games because that puts pressure on other clubs.
"We've got nine days now until our next game, so we've got a little bit
of a rest after three games in a week and hopefully we can go away to
Swansea and get some points. "I'm hoping this can be a really productive
Christmas. I would have snapped your hand off for seven points this week
with Liverpool away after a big defeat here against Arsenal, and two really
tough home games where we've kept clean sheets, which were massive. "Like
I said, we can look forward now."
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Bilic - It's a massively important three points
WHUFC.com
Bilic delighted with result against Hull City, but admits his team were
fortunate
Hull hit the woodwork three times, but Hammers won 1-0
Boss says team will be able to play with more freedom having taken seven
points from three games
Slaven Bilic admitted his West Ham United team rode their luck en route to
taking three points against Hull City on Saturday. Mark Noble's second half
penalty gave the Hammers a second London Stadium victory of the week, but
only after the visitors had struck home woodwork three times. The boss
changed the system at half-time, bringing Andre Ayew and Edimilson Fernandes
off the bench as he switched to four at the back, and he felt that resulted
in a final half-hour in which the Hammers raised their game. The end result
was maximum points - making it seven in three games and lifting the east
Londoners up to 13th in the Premier League table - and that was all that
concerned Bilic. "It's a great three points for us," he explained. "It was a
very nervy game - we didn't do enough in the first half and we changed the
system. We had to put a couple of players on then, because one wouldn't have
been enough. "The first good thing is the result, the second is that [first
half performance] can't be worse. "In the last half-an-hour we stepped up a
gear and found ourselves in good positions on the pitch. We were attacking
in numbers and defending much better. "We had a few chances in that time -
they also had chances, mostly in the first half, and then scored in the
right moment.
"After that we should have finished the game but we didn't. It's a massively
important three points for us. "It is important that we've recorded
back-to-back wins here at London Stadium. We showed the character and we
showed a good last half-hour, but the most important thing out of this game
is to win it. "It was hard to expect flashy football in this period because
of the position we are in, but we have climbed the table a bit now. "We are
still there, but we should have much more confidence and be able to play
much more freely now after these seven points from three games."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan reflects on an important week - and seven
vital points - for West Ham United
As Mark Noble said, it has been a massively important week for West Ham
United. When we kicked-off at Liverpool last Sunday, we were in the bottom
three with 12 points from 14 games and were looking short of confidence and
belief. However, Slaven Bilic and the players have responded as I expected
them to, with character and resilience. The result has been seven points
from three matches, two clean sheets and back-to-back Premier League wins at
London Stadium for the first time. We are up to 13th in the table, just four
points off seventh going into two winnable games over the festive period.
Talking of Christmas, we're offering 20 per cent off the Home shirt on
Sunday, so make sure you visit the Online Store to take advantage and get
your shopping done! While a week ago things looked a bit bleak, we can now
enjoy our Christmas and go to Swansea City on Boxing Day with real optimism.
Don't get me wrong, Saturday's 1-0 win over Hull City was not a good
performance and we rode our luck, but we have been due some luck. However,
the game was all about the result, that was the only think that mattered. As
Slaven said himself, our first-half performance was not particularly good,
but we did not let Hull score - with a bit of help from the goalpost - and
then improved after some changes at half-time. The second half was better,
and we created chances either side of Mark Noble's penalty. In addition,
Andy Carroll came through a full game for the first time since August,
Cheikhou Kouyate and Winston Reid were immense in defence, Michail Antonio
never stopped running - the whole team worked together to get the win. I've
been in football more than long enough to know you don't always get what
you deserve, and Hull will feel hard done by, as I have said already, the
result was all that mattered. The way the team fought together and overcame
a well-organised team with grit and determination clearly impressed the
supporters, who yet again stuck with the players, who were playing their
third game in seven days. The atmosphere in the second half was very good
and was another illustration of how loud it can get inside London Stadium.
Thank you again for your outstanding support and another trouble-free game,
and for really getting behind the team when they needed you. We can now look
upwards and forwards, rather than downwards and backwards.
If we can win at Swansea on Boxing Day, which is definitely within our
capabilities, we could find ourselves in the top half of the table and
nearer to where we want to be at the end of the season. We are also getting
closer to the start of the transfer window, when we hope to bring in some
quality reinforcements to further strengthen the squad. We are aware that
there are some gaps to be filled, particularly with the African Cup of
Nations starting in January, and you can be sure we will be working morning,
noon and night to bring in the right players to help push us further up the
standings. Before then, we have two away matches to end what has been a
momentous, historic year for our wonderful Football Club. Thank you again
for joining us on what continues to be an exciting and, I am sure,
ultimately successful journey. The future is bright.
Come on you Irons!
David Sullivan
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1-0 Hull City
By Jamie Strickland
BBC Sport
Mark Noble's controversial penalty was enough to give West Ham an
unconvincing victory over luckless Hull City at London Stadium. Mike
Phelan's visitors hit the frame of the goal three times before the hosts
went ahead after Tom Huddlestone was adjudged to have brought down Michail
Antonio in the area with 14 minutes left. The Hull midfielder had his hands
on Antonio but the contact appeared minimal. Referee Lee Mason thought
otherwise and Noble stepped up to fire West Ham to back-to-back home Premier
League wins for the first time at their new home. Dieumerci Mbokani had
earlier hit the woodwork for Hull when one-on-one with Darren Randolph,
before Noble struck his own post as he attempted to clear Andrew Robertson's
cross. Robertson made it a hat-trick of efforts off the post with a
thunderous drive that beat Randolph but not the frame of the goal. A seventh
straight away defeat allied to Sunderland's victory over Watford means Hull
will spend Christmas bottom of the table, while West Ham - after taking
seven points in a week - move five points clear of trouble.
Hull pay huge price for missed chances
Hull carved out 16 shots at the London Stadium but saw Darren Randolph save
four times (red dots), Edimilson Fernandes clear off the line (orange) and
two come back off the post (blue). Mark Noble's header against his own post
is not shown here Defeats do not come much harsher than this - and finishing
the day bottom of the table after such a display is going to be a huge
psychological blow for Hull's players to overcome. Hull, seeking a league
win away to the Hammers for the first time since 1990, took the game to the
hosts from the outset and created countless chances to score. Defender Harry
Maguire saw Randolph save his header from a corner and then had a header
cleared off the line in the second half by Edimilson Fernandes. Mbokani,
back after a three-match ban, really should have scored when he latched on
to Aaron Cresswell's under-hit back-pass in the first half, but instead
contrived to hit the inside of the upright as he tried to curl the ball
beyond Randolph. Robertson was impressive down the left and he sent over a
teasing cross early in the second half that Noble nodded at pace on to his
own post with Randolph beaten. Moments later the Hull left-back let fly from
20 yards with a searing shot, but again it was against the woodwork and not
in the net.
Hammers dig in for another gritty win
All three of West Ham's league wins at London Stadium before Hull's visit
had been by a 1-0 scoreline - so the final score on Saturday probably earned
some punters a few quid. While the table makes good reading right now, the
fact remains that this was a largely disjointed performance by the hosts -
one that had many fans expressing their discontent at the half-time whistle.
Manager Slaven Bilic was far from happy after an opening 45 minutes in which
Hull dominated, and responded at the interval bringing on Andre Ayew and
Fernandes for Manuel Lanzini and Pedro Obiang. West Ham improved as the game
wore on and very nearly went ahead when Ayew's header was cleared off the
line by Robertson, but their threat remained largely limited - with Andy
Carroll shackled by the Hull back three of Maguire, Michael Dawson and
Curtis Davies.
But no-one can accuse West Ham of not taking their chances when they were
presented this past week, first in the draw with Liverpool last Sunday and
again in narrow wins over Burnley and now Hull.
Man of the match - Harry Maguire
Despite being part of a three-man back line, Harry Maguire made his presence
felt all over the pitch. He played his part in keeping Andy Carroll quiet at
one end, while at the other he managed a team-high four shots on target -
forcing Darren Randolph into one fine save and seeing another cleared off
the line. He also led the Tigers in total passes with 42 - 22 of those in
the West Ham half - total touches (66) and total tackles (five)
Reaction: 'We were sloppy, they were better'
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "In the first half definitely we were
fortunate. We were sloppy, they were better. "At half-time I said there are
a couple of good things, one that it is still 0-0 and second that it can't
be much worse, we can lift up the tempo. "In the second half we were much
better, in the last half an hour we were really good. We scored the goal and
should have finished the game. "It is a massive three points for us.
Back-to-back wins, in this stadium, are very good considering the situation
we were in. "Am I pleased with our performance? No I'm not. Am I pleased
with our reaction? I am, but we have to play for 90 minutes."
Hull boss Mike Phelan: "It's difficult when your team are doing ever so
well, you feel for them because you want them to score the goals and get the
credit. If we can play like that, we just need a stroke of genius or luck to
get us goals. "The post is there to stand in the way of a goal and it did
that a few times today. "You have to have a wry smile on your face or you'd
be very, very depressed."
On the penalty decision that went against his team."I am not going to go
down that road finding fault with the referee's decision. I think West Ham
have got away with one."
Hull defender Andrew Robertson: "Anyone who watches the highlights will see
we dominated the game. We had so many chances and have been done by a soft
penalty. "That is probably our best performance of the season and it ends up
with us bottom of the league. That is the beauty of football. We have got to
hope it turns around for us. "First half we went in and West Ham were booed
off. I can't believe we've not scored today. "Their manager said we were the
better team."
Stats you need to know: Hull misery at West Ham continues
West Ham have won seven consecutive league games at home against Hull City
Mark Noble has scored 15 of his past 17 penalties taken in the Premier
League
Noble has scored in consecutive PL home games for the first time ever
Hull have conceded the first goal of the game on 14 occasions this season in
the Premier League; more often than any other team
West Ham's past seven Premier League goals against Hull have all come in the
second half of games
The Tigers are on a run of seven successive away defeats in the Premier
League and they have failed to score in the past five of these
Dimitri Payet created six goalscoring chances versus Hull; three times as
many as any other West Ham player
What's next?
The Boxing Day fixtures are next up for these two. West Ham travel to
second-bottom Swansea at 15:00 GMT, while Hull play host to Manchester City
at 17:15 GMT.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1-0 HULL CITY - MATCH REPORT
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 17 DECEMBER 2016 AT 6:20PM
TheWesTHamWay.co.uk
By @WestHamAmerican
West Ham defeated Hull City today, 1-0 in a Saturday afternoon match at the
London Stadium. Both teams arrived after a busy week of matches sitting on
the wrong end of the table. But a sloppy 1-0 victory against Burnley gave
the hosts a bit of momentum to work off of as Christmas approaches.
Both sides employed a wingback formation with three in the back. Slaven
Bilic used the same starting eleven as he did during his midweek victory
over Burnley. In the early going West Ham was the aggressor with
possession. During the first ten minutes Hull keeper, David Marshall, was
under pressure. Only five minutes in he appeared to pull up with a thigh
injury but after attention by the physio he remained in goal.
Dieumerci Mbokani had an early chance to take the lead. 19 minutes in he
was only a yard wide of goal on a tight shot. A minute later, the London
Stadium crowd gasped as Aaron Cresswell's uncharacteristically weak
backpass to Darren Randolph was short, and Mbokani took on the Hammer's
goalkeeper one-on-one. Miraculously his open goal shot only hit the post.
The final moments of the opening half were all Hull. Livermore, Maguire,
and Mbokani all had chances to take the lead. West Ham seemed to oblige
Mike Phelan's side by giving up possession multiple times in the midfield.
Hull showed stout defending and seemed resolve in not giving Andy Carroll
any chance to damage them on set plays.
After three minutes of added time, the first half ended with a 0-0 score.
One bit of first half damage was Lee Mason's booking Pedro Obiang. This
yellow card earned the Spaniard a suspension during the Boxing Day match at
Swansea.
As the second half opened, Bilic made formation changes bringing on Ayew and
Fernandes for Lanzini and Obiang respectively. Placing Kouyate at right
back, he hoped to spread the field a bit but the unintended consequence was
a wide open midfield that gave Hull free reign to counterattack unimpeded.
Fortunately luck was on West Ham's side.
Disaster almost struck the Hammers when a Mark Noble header to clear a
Robertson cross hit his own post, barely missing a 1-0 own goal. A moment
later, Robertson hit the post again. The drama and back-and-forth of the
play were unexpected for a 0-0 match between two bottom of table clubs.
Finally in the 75th West Ham received their opportunity when Michail Antonio
was brought down in the penalty area by Tom Huddlestone and the home club
was awarded a spot kick. With less drama than Wednesday, captain Mark Noble
took care of business and the Hammers had their 1-0 lead.
Just like Wednesday's match West Ham had some scares and opportunities but
managed to hang on for the narrow and sloppy victory. With three matches in
seven days, Bilic's side has a break to heal up prior to the Boxing Day
journey to Swansea. Despite the poor and disjointed showing for two
consecutive matches, the Hammers did take seven points from three matches,
including an impressive point at Anfield.
Hopefully Bilic and company will find some answers as this team continues to
climb towards safety. Historically, this club hasn't found great answers
in the January transfer window so a return to consistent form will probably
have to come from within the current roster.
Keep reading the West Ham Way for all the latest transfer news.
West Ham: Randolph, Kouyate, Reid, Ogbonna, Antonio, Noble, Obiang,
Cresswell, Lanzini, Payet, Carroll
Subs: Nordtveit (93′), Feghouli, Adrian, Ayew (45′), Fletcher, Fernandes
(45′), Quina.
Bookings: Obiang (36') Noble (60′)
Hull: Marshall, Maguire, Dawson, Davies, Elmohamady, Livermore, Huddlestone,
Clucas, Robertson, Snodgrass, Mbokani
Subs: Meyler, Maloney, Jakupovic, Weir, Diomande, Henriksen (69′), Bowen
(86′)
Bookings: Livermore (32') Dawson (74′) Henriksen (84′) Maguire (95′)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mike Phelan says Hull should have been out of sight before West Ham winner
Last Updated: 17/12/16 7:18pm
SSN
Mike Phelan admits Hull should have been out of sight long before West Ham
stole a 1-0 win to leave the Tigers bottom of the Premier League. For the
second time in three days Hammers skipper Mark Noble stepped up to the
penalty spot to secure an unconvincing victory for the hosts. But Hull were
left wondering just how they left the London Stadium empty-handed after
being denied by the woodwork three times and having an effort cleared off
the line. That's the nature of the industry, sometimes good performances
don't give you the results you want," said Hull manager Phelan. "I wouldn't
say the penalty cost us the game as we should have been out of sight before
then. "Everything that could have happened against a football team happened
to us. We probably won't see anything like that again this season.
"Performances like that should at some point merit results. But we've been
in the game long enough to know that when opportunities come along like that
you have to be ruthless. "We had more than enough chances to win a few
football matches."
Phelan refused to be drawn on the dubious penalty decision by referee Lee
Mason, which even Hammers boss Slaven Bilic admitted was probably soft.
After the ball had bounced around the Hull area, Tom Huddlestone dragged
down Michail Antonio, which Mason deemed to be a foul, leaving Noble to slot
the ball home for the winner.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says West Ham 'weren't good' in victory over Hull
Last Updated: 17/12/16 9:05pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says his side were "not good" in their 1-0 win
over Hull, but insists the points are most important. The Hammers climbed to
13th after picking up a second win on the trot at London Stadium, meaning
they have seven points from their last three games. Mark Noble's penalty 14
minutes from time was enough for the Hammers, but Bilic was frank about his
side's performance. "It's a great three points for us. It was a very nervous
game. First half we just weren't there enough for a Premier League game. We
weren't good," he said. "For a long period it looked like they deserved
something. We weren't good. But in the last half-hour we stepped up a gear
and our pressure got the penalty. "At the end of the day I'd love to have
played better but these last couple of games were all about results. "We
got six points out of them and that was the objective. Especially last half
an hour, we stepped up a gear and found ourselves in good positions on the
pitch.
It is the Hammers' first back-to-back league wins at their new stadium, and
Bilic says the victory will give them momentum and more confidence going
into the Christmas period. "It is important, we showed the character and a
good second half, but the most important thing out of this game is to win
it. "We have climbed a bit, but we should now have more confidence and we
should not play much more free after these seven points from the three
games. "Now it should give us confidence. We are still not in the position
we would like to be in, but it's much better than it was a week ago." "It
wasn't good enough. We put ourselves in many 'oh my God situations'. I would
like us to play better but these couple of games [Burnley and Hull] were all
about results."
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West Ham 1-0 Hull City: Mark Noble penalty hands Hammers win
By Gerard Brand
Last Updated: 17/12/16 9:05pm
SSN
Mark Noble's penalty 14 minutes from time gave West Ham a narrow 1-0 win
over Hull City at London Stadium on Saturday. Three days after his winner
against Burnley, it was captain Noble who gave West Ham the three points
again, rolling a penalty home after Tom Huddlestone brought down Michail
Antonio. Dieumerci Mbokani hit the post for Hull in the first half after
capitalising on Aaron Cresswell's mistake, before Noble nearly diverted into
his own net after half-time, hitting the bottom of the woodwork with a
header. The result leaves West Ham 13th following their first back-to-back
Premier League wins at London Stadium, while Hull are now bottom, having won
just once in 14 league games. Andy Carroll started consecutive league games
for the first time this season, while Mbokani came in for Adama Diomande for
Hull. Michael Dawson did well to block Dimitri Payet's effort from inside
the area early on, but Hull had most of the chances in the first half in
east London. Mbokani struck inches wide from 20 yards, before the Congolese
striker missed the best chance of the opening 45 minutes, hitting the inside
of the post after latching onto Cresswell's poor backpass to go through on
goal. Darren Randolph then beat away Harry Maguire's header from a Robert
Snodgrass corner, while Pedro Obiang nearly diverted the ball into his own
net as he snuffed out Maguire in the area before the break. Hull continued
to create the chances after half-time, as Noble headed onto his own post
past Randolph from Andrew Robertson's cross, before Robertson himself hit
the post from inside the area with a fierce left-footed effort that looked
destined for goal. Robertson then cleared off the line from Andre Ayew's
header from Payet's corner, while David Marshall saved well from Antonio's
left-footed shot from an angle. Edimilson Fernandes cleared off the line at
the other end from Maguire's header, before the breakthrough came in the
76th minute. After the ball bounced around the Hull area, Huddlestone
dragged down Antonio, deemed by Lee Mason to be a foul, leaving Noble to
slot the ball home for the winner. Maguire could have equalised for Hull
late on, but Randolph kept out the defender's effort from an angle when
squaring for team-mates looked the better option.
Player ratings
West Ham: Randolph (6), Kouyate (7), Reid (6), Ogbonna (6), Antonio (6),
Noble (6), Obiang (6), Cresswell (5), Lanzini (5), Payet (6), Carroll (5).
Subs: Ayew (6), Fernandes (6), Nordtveit (NA)
Hull: Marshall (6), Maguire (6), Dawson (6), Davies (6), Elmohamady (5),
Livermore (5), Huddlestone (5), Clucas (5), Robertson (6), Snodgrass (6),
Mbokani (5)
Subs: Diomande (5), Henriksen (5), Bowen (NA).
Man of the match: Cheikhou Kouyate
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