Hammer fans pull off FA Cup shock
WHUFC.com
Hammers fans Danny and Nicky Cowley led Lincoln City to an unforgettable FA
Cup victory at Burnley
Former West Ham goalkeeper Jimmy Walker is also on the Imps' backroom staff
Toni Martinez was on target for League One Oxford United, who were edged out
at Middlesbrough
West Ham United's own Emirates FA Cup dreams may have been dashed, but three
Hammers are still flying the Claret and Blue flag in the world's most-famous
knockout competition. Lincoln City manager Danny Cowley, assistant Nicky and
goalkeeper coach Jimmy Walker enjoyed another unforgettable FA Cup weekend
as the Imps became the first non-league club in 103 years to reach the last
eight. Lincoln scored a 1-0 victory over Premier League Burnley at Turf
Moor, continuing the National League club's amazing run, which has also seen
them overcome League One Oldham Athletic and Championship sides Ipswich Town
and Brighton & Hove Albion in this season's competition. Lifelong Hammers,
the Cowley brothers have enjoyed a memorable rise through the game in recent
months. Less than a year ago, the pair were teaching physical education at a
secondary school in the Essex town of Rayleigh, combining those full-time
roles with the management of National League club Braintree Town.
After leading the part-time Iron to the National League play-offs last
season, where they were edged out by full-time Grimsby Town in the
semi-finals, the Cowleys were given the task of leading Lincoln back to the
Football League after a six-year absence. The Imps sit top of the National
League table with games in-hand on the clubs below them due to their
extended run in the FA Cup. Now, they are 90 minutes from leading their team
out at Wembley Stadium, with a sixth-round tie against either fellow
National League side Sutton United or Premier League giants Arsenal to look
forward to in the last eight. The brothers were not the only West
Ham-related presence in the weekend's FA Cup, as young loanee Toni Martinez
almost wrote another giant-killing headline of his own.
The Spaniard scored an equaliser for League One Oxford United at Premier
League Middlesbrough as the U's came from 2-0 down to level at the Riverside
Stadium, only for Boro to sneak a 3-2 victory and a place in the
quarter-finals. Martinez has been in good form for Oxford, scoring four
goals in six matches, including strikes in FA Cup ties with Newcastle United
and Middlesbrough.
Elsewhere in the FA Cup, Stephen Hendrie was an unused substitute for
Blackburn Rovers, who were edged out 2-1 by Manchester United at Ewood Park.
In the EFL, Josh Cullen was again in the thick of the action as Bradford
City maintained their spot in the League One Play-Off places with a 2-2 draw
with third-place Bolton Wanderers at Valley Parade.
Two West Ham loanees came face-to-face at the Bescot Stadium, where George
Dobson's Walsall earned a 2-0 win over Martin Samuelsen's Peterborough
United. Both Hammers were introduced as second-half substitutes.
Jaanai Gordon was also introduced from the bench for League Two's bottom
club Newport County, who were defeated 3-2 at Cambridge United.
Marcus Browne and Reece Burke were not involved as relegation-threatened
Wigan Athletic earned a goalless draw with Preston North End in the
Championship.
Elsewhere, defender Josh Pask was also absent from Gillingham's 2-1 defeat
at Coventry City in League One, while full-back Alex Pike missed Cheltenham
Town's 2-0 win over Yeovil Town in League Two.
In the non-league ranks, goalkeeper Sam Howes' Hampton & Richmond Borough
were edged out 2-1 by East Thurrock United in National League South.
Striker Sam Ford was introduced as a half-time substitute for Bishops
Stortford in the same division, but his side were also beaten, 4-1 by Poole
Town.
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Foundation roll out DT38 programme in Primary Schools
WHUFC.com
DT38 Foundation's 'Didge' programme has officially launched in east London,
with pupils at William Bellamy Primary School the first to benefit from West
Ham United Foundation's delivery of the syllabus created in memory of
Hammers Academy starlet Dylan Tombides, who tragically passed away in 2014.
DT38 Foundation launched the children's book 'Didge' last summer, and have
enjoyed a successful roll-out of the teaching syllabus which accompanies it
in Australia. Having partnered with West Ham United Foundation and adapted
the learning apparatus, the syllabus carries itself across KS1 and KS2 and
aims to arm future generations with strategies to be resilient through
adversity.
William Bellamy Primary School signed up for the Didge project after their
PE Coordinator, Donna Rose, was contacted by WHU Foundation. Donna, who is a
Hammers fan, recalls being with the Barking and Dagenham District Year 6
football team at a tournament in Jersey when she heard of Dylan's passing.
Inspired by DT38 Foundation's ability to create such a positive project from
a tragic story, Donna signed the school up for the taster session.
The response from the session was overwhelming. Afterwards the pupils
described Didge as encouraging, an inspiration, a calming and kind person
and a good footballer.
Through Dylan's real life story, the Didge programme gives teachers and
students the necessary knowledge about health and wellbeing that will enable
them to be confident when taking health matters in their own hands, as well
as helping teachers to learn how to engage in sensitive topics with their
pupils.
Donna said: "The response from the session was overwhelming. Afterwards the
pupils described Didge as encouraging, an inspiration, a calming and kind
person and a good footballer. We are delighted with the outcomes of the
taster session, and are looking forward to receiving the full programme
delivery, which begins later this month."
WHU Foundation are actively looking to engage with new schools and have 6
week programmes available covering PSHE and literacy themes. To enquire
about the DT38 programme, please email Ross Williams:
rwilliams@westhamunited.co.uk
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Westley - Holland like young Ryan Giggs
WHUFC.com
West Ham United PL2 won on their first appearance at London Stadium
They won 2-0, thanks to goals from Nathan Holland and Conor Coventry
Speaking after the match, Terry Westley said he was particularly pleased
with Holland's performance
Terry Westley said Nathan Holland's performance against Fulham reminded him
of "a young Ryan Giggs" as the Hammers winger scored and put in a masterful
display in their 2-0 win.
Holland only joined West Ham last month but has already stamped his mark on
Premier League 2 and the Premier League Cup, scoring three goals in his last
three matches.
Westley was keen to praise the 18-year-old winger but was also delighted
with what was a crucial win over their London rivals.
"I'd probably say Nathan Holland [was brilliant], particularly in the first
half," said Westley. "What a talent we've got on our hands. He was skipping
past players, reminding me of a really young Ryan Giggs. I think he
particularly caught people eyes tonight.
"What a great stadium and we wanted the players to really express
themselves. First half I thought we particularly done that and second half
was different in terms of the grit and determination they showed when they
were up against it.
"Fulham are a very good side and it was a very good football match for those
who come. The standard of the play and the way that both teams tried to pass
the ball and move the ball around the pitch was of a high level and we're
delighted to come away 2-0 winners."
The Hammers looked very much at home at London Stadium, in their first
appearance at the club's new home, having played every other home match this
season at Dagenham and Redbridge's Chigwell Construction Stadium.
Holland and debutant Conor Coventry scored the goals which ended Fulham's
eight match unbeaten run, and strengthened the Hammers own pursuit of a
play-off place in Premier League 2 Division 2.
"I said to Liam in the first half that the substitutions are going to be
crucial because you could just see the adrenaline and excitement of being
around the stadium for the first time taking it out of the players," added
Westley.
"For them to experience that can only help them. This is where they're going
to ply their trade but I was delighted with their application, delighted
with the way we played and they way they showed some grit and determination
in the end to see the game through.
"Fulham are realistically the only team that can catch Swansea for the
automatic promotion place. We think with four to go, we need to win three
and one of those was tonight.
"We thought being at our own stadium, it'll be terrific to win our first
game here. We were very young again, when you think of the players who
didn't play, Domingos Quina has played in all our our games and today he was
away with the first team. But he'll be pleased the boys have won and we're a
step closer to those play-offs."
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FT - West Ham United PL2 2-0 Fulham
WHUFC.com
FT: A brilliant display by the boys and they're applauded off by a vocal
home support. Nathan Holland got his third in as many games in the first
half and the points were secured in stoppage time and Conor Coventry trust
through to score on his debut. Not a bad way to mark your first appearance
at London Stadium. Full-time: West Ham 2-0 Fulham!
90: GOALLLL! What a debut for Conor Coventry - he bursts through the Fulham
defence and slides the ball under Joronen. The points are sealed! 2-0
89: We're into the closing stages and the Hammers seem happy to run the
clock down. They've been brilliant tonight and are very close to picking up
a valuable three points.
85: Opoku heads just wide from a corner as Fulham's pressure mounts. So far,
they've failed to make the most of their best spell of the match.
83: Sessegnon should have done better again but shoots straight at Trott.
The Cottagers are looking more of a threat in these final few minutes as the
Hammers aim to hang on!
79: Looks as if Diangana will be replaced and It's a nice moment for Conor
Coventry who is set to make his U23s' debut.
76: Fulham's best chance. Sessegnon is played in on the right but Trott
saves his shot well. Worrying signs for the host as Diangana and Pask are
both down receiving treatment.
72: More action being provided from Holland. His close ball control really
is a pleasure to watch. He cuts inside and fires over.
70: Couple of subs being readied by the West Ham bench. Powell and Kemp are
replaced by Parfitt-Williams and Hector-Ingram.
67: Rare effort for Fulham as Josh Smile strikes well over the bar from 30
yards. That's about as good as it's got so far for the visitors. But the
Hammers still only have a slender lead.
63: Attendance tonight is 1,171! Fair play to the Hammers supporters coming
out on a Monday night and they've created a terrific atmosphere!
59: Free-kick whipped in by Kemp but it somehow misses all the Hammers in
the area and goes through for a goal kick.
56: Could and should have been the second! Kemp jinks his way past a
defender and hits the cross bar with a powerful strike!
55: Lovely run by Knoyle. We see that from his often! He cuts in and force
Joronen into action again. The Hammers have picked up where they left off!
51: The Hammers break and look dangerous for a second. Holland is played in
by Powell but his cross is blocked away for a corner. The corner misses the
box.
47: Changes made by Fulham at half-time. Both the players who were booked -
Thorsteinsson and Harris - are replaced by O'Riley and Sessegnon.
46: Back underway in this second half. More of the same please, Hammers!
HT: Great stuff by the Hammers in that first half. They were very dominant
and deservedly go into the break a goal up. Nathan Holland's third in as
many games sees them go into the dressing room a goal up!
45: 2 minutes added at the end of this first half.
43: The bookings are totting up for the visitors. Harris puts a nasty
challenge in on Diangana and earns Fulham's second booking of the evening.
39: First booking of the night goes to Thorsteinsson - Fulham have struggled
to deal with Diangana and the Icelandic midfielder brings him down and gets
a yellow.
37: Surging run from Knoyle who forces a corner, which is played shorted and
worked to Powell. His cross is straight into the arms of Joronen.
33: Good defending from Rice to usher out Adebayo, who looked like he was in
for a second. Fulham have struggled to impact this game thus far.
28: Close! And we almost had a carbon copy of the first. Again, Holland cuts
in and sends it towards the same corner. Fortunately for Fulham, Joronen is
equal to it.
23: The Hammers are really enjoying their football in the opening stages.
Diangana sidesteps off the flank and plays a one-two with Holland before
being bundled over in box. The referee waves away the protests.
20: And there's the opening goal!!! The ball is worked to Holland who cuts
in from the right and sends a brilliant, low drive into the bottom corner.
It's now three in three for the January signing and the home side are
deservedly in front. 1-0!
19: Powell chases a lost cause on the right but somehow keeps the ball in
and he manages to find Holland in the box. The winger had time but shot
straight at Joronen.
16: Best chance of the game so far! The Hammers are well on top at the
moment and Holland plays a one-two with Kemp before forcing a save from
Joronen. The ball then fell back to Holland who shot over from a tight
angle.
13: Couple of neat passages of play by the Hammers and they look to be
settling into this game nicely. On both occasions though, the final ball was
missing.
9: Good chance for the Hammers and it falls the Diangana. He manages to turn
and send a drive towards but it was just too high and goes safely over the
crossbar. Moments later, the playmaker has another drive at goal but it
produces the same result.
4: First chance of the match goes to Fulham. George Williams whips an
enticing corner in and it's headed just over by Joshua Smile.
2: Early injury to Sylvestre who is being treated by the Hammers physio. It
looked for a minute as the midfielder would go off because Conor Coventry
was sent to warm up, but Sylvestre is okay to continue.
1: Fulham get the game underway
6.58pm: The teams are out and there is a very decent crowd in tonight! Big
occasion for out young Irons and let's hope they can put in a good
performance and get a positive result! COME ON YOU IRONS!
6.40pm: It's a fantastic arena for both sets of players to play their
football tonight. As we speak, the teams are both out getting used to their
surroundings. Around 20 minutes to kick-off, and you can follow the action
right here!
6.10pm: So just the one change tonight made by Terry Westley. Noha Sylvestre
returns for Domingos Quina and Conor Coventry is on the bench for only the
second time this season. The Hammers come up against a Fulham side in good
form tonight - the Cottagers are unbeaten in eight matches and beat the
young Irons 4-1 in the reverse fixture. The Hammers will hope to get some
revenge this evening.
West Ham: Trott, Knoyle, Pask, Rice, Neufville; Makasi, Sylvestre; Kemp
(Parfitt-Williams, 70), Diangana (Coventry, 79), Holland; Powell
(Hector-Ingram, 70).
Subs not used: Akinola, Matrevics.
Goals: Holland
Fulham: Joronen, Grimmer, Opoku, Smile, Sheckleford, Jenz, Kait, Harris
(O'Riley, 46), Adebayo, Williams, Dagur Thorsteinsson (Sessegnon, 46).
Subs not used: Ashby-Hammond, Mundle-Smith, Elstone.
Bookings: Thorsteinsson, Harris
6.00pm: Good evening and welcome to London Stadium for West Ham United PL2's
first ever outing at the club's new home. Tonight the Hammers take on
Fulham, looking for continue their quest for a place in the Premier league 2
Division 2 play-offs. It should be a great occasion for our youngsters this
evening as for many of them, it will be their first time playing on the
hallowed turf.
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LUNCHTIME ROUND UP: SAKHO RUNNING AGAIN, HAMMERS RULE OUT FORMER PL STRIKER,
REID SPEAKS OUT ON PAYET
BY DAN CHAPMAN ON 20 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 1:02PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Diafra Sakho has gone running in the sea as he continues his recovery. (The
Sun)
Another step in the right direction for Sakho. Hopefully he can come back
and stay fit to help the team push up the table towards the seasons end.
Karren Brady says Slaven Bilic's touchline outburst was wrong. (The Sun)
It was wrong, but he has his reasons. He was only showing passion for his
club, which is apparently wrong in the eye of the officials nowadays.
Andre Ayew has revealed that he played through the pain for West Ham this
season. (Evening Standard)
Andre has had a tough start to life at West Ham, but I am hopeful that he
can start to pick up form and be a big player for us now.
West Ham have ruled out signing free agent striker Dimitar Berbatov. (Ninety
Minutes Online)
No thanks. Too old, very off the pace of the Premier League, its best to
stay clear of him.
West Ham are willing to listen to offers of around £9m for Sofiane Feghouli.
(Ninety Minutes Online)
I was one of Feghouli's biggest critics earlier in the season, but he has
turned his form around massivley. I would be very disappointed to see him
leave us.
Winston Reid says that West Ham have not missed Dimitri Payet since he left
the club last month. (HITC)
We have not missed him at all. The team are so much more together and
happier without him around the club. I am happy he is gone and that the
players are all improving.
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Five-year-old's dreams come true after West Ham manager Super Slav takes him
to meet idol Andy Carroll
Newham Recorder
12:08 20 February 2017 Ryan Tute
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic lived up to his 'Super Slav' nickname after
giving a young Hammers fan a day he will never forget.
Slaven Bilic posing for a photo with the young Hammers fan.Slaven Bilic
posing for a photo with the young Hammers fan. Last week lifelong fan Matt
Hill took his five-year-old son Alfie to the club's training ground in Rush
Green to try get a few photos and autographs. But after spending nearly five
hours outside the complex in the freezing cold, there was no sign of Alfie's
hero Andy Carroll.
As hope of seeing Andy began to diminish, the dad and son were met by the
club's Croatian manager at the gates who told them the England international
would be staying late. After hearing the predicament, Bilic told Alfie to
jump in his car and he would take him to Andy. Slaven giving Alfie and
another young fan a lift back inside the training ground.Slaven giving Alfie
and another young fan a lift back inside the training ground.
Dad Matt, of Hornchurch, said: "It was absolutely amazing. "A car came down
the driveway at about 5.30pm and we thought it might have been Andy but it
turned out to be Slav. "He posed for photos and spoke to Alf. As soon as he
heard what was going on, you could see the cogs in his mind turning. "He
told Alf and another little boy to get in and he would take them inside, I
couldn't believe it.
Alfie has written a letter to 'Super Slav' to say thank you.Alfie has
written a letter to 'Super Slav' to say thank you. "My wife and our
two-year-old daughter quickly followed behind and we managed to get photos
with Andy." The 35-year-old dad is now full of praise for everyone connected
with the club. He said: "I expected to turn up and get a few signatures from
the players but to finish the day like that, it blew my mind!" "Alf has been
absolutely bouncing ever since, the smile on his face is something I will
never forget.
"Anyone involved in football gets so much negativity but this just so shows
the type of people Slav and the players are, they are a real credit to the
club and the sport."
Alfie now hopes a thank you letter to Slaven he has written will land on the
manager's desk for him to read.
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West Ham should take hint from Euro giants interest in Mousa Dembele
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham should move on from Celtic man and look elsewhere. West Ham had an
offer of £20 million refused by Celtic in early January, The Mirror reported
- and face an even tougher task to land him this summer. Dembele has been in
prolific form for Celtic this season having racked up 27 goals already this
campaign. Celtic did not want to lose Dembele mid-season, and value the
former Fulham ace far higher than West Ham's reported bid. Now European
giants Bayern Munich are on alert over Dembele's form, with The Mirror
reporting they along with Chelsea and Real Madrid are keen on offering £30
million this summer, while a bidding war could drive the price up further.
West Ham are also claimed to be maintaining their interest, but they should
take the hint from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid's interest in the striker,
and move on. The Hammers' transfer efforts last summer were blighted by
being too ambitious, unable to land Carlos Bacca, Michy Batshuayi or
Alexandre Lacazette. This left them scrambling for a loan deal for Simone
Zaza, which proved disastrous with the Italian already moved on after
failing to score. Even if West Ham were able to get a bid together to match
Real or Bayern's top offer for Dembele, they will face a tough challenge to
persuade him to choose to join them instead, while offering parity in terms
of wages will likely be impossible. West Ham need to focus their efforts on
landing the next Dembele, and look for an up and coming striker who is not
going to cost the earth, and take the hint that the Celtic forward will
likely head elsewhere, rather than waste their time.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING OUR ACADEMY STARS
By Zaman Siddiqui
20 Feb 2017 at 08:00
WTID
Guest post by Aleksandar Babac
NOTE FROM ZAMAN: The author has written a piece on the Academy of Football,
and our current crop of youngsters. He is also the creator of the largest
West Ham-based Croatian Facebook page.
Last week in a match between Southend United and Millwall, Anton Ferdinand
made a crossed Hammers sign to the Millwall fans leaving the referee no
choice but to give him a booking. But in all fairness, they were giving him
abuse all match. Regardless, the Academy graduate needed to show his true
colours of Claret and Blue!
These days, people think that they can call themselves fans by buying a
replica kit. But it isn't just the fans who couldn't care less about club
history. In fact, even most footballers playing in foreign leagues don't
seem to care much about it. By contrast, the Academy offers something else.
Not only do the lads learn to play, but also learn what commitment and
loyalty actually mean. As it turns out, these values (in addition to playing
well) are good indicators of success at West Ham. For instance, Academy
graduates Cottee, Ince, Potts, Ferdinand, Cole, and Noble have all been
voted Hammer of the Year.
We have been fortunate enough to have extremely talented players go through
our Academy. Whether they continued playing for our club or not, there is no
doubt that our club has made the single biggest contribution to English
football in recent decades. For instance, Rio Ferdinand is regarded as one
of the best defenders of his generation, and is one of England's best
centre-backs. Although most of them are nearing the end of their careers
with other clubs, they are testament to our club's strong stance on youth
development, starting off young, playing football in the same neighbourhoods
as some of the supporters. Some may call them deserters, but it is worth
keeping in mind that they gave their all whilst wearing the Claret and Blue
jersey.
I think that this is an issue that we haven't properly addressed. Just why
did some of our famous graduates leave? To name a few, Moore, Hurst, and
Peters left West Ham, in spite of the huge support they received from the
fans. Money is the first thing that comes to mind. Rio was only 22 when we
sold him to Leeds United for a then England transfer record of £18M. Last
month, Frank Lampard Jr. announced his retirement. After 15 years since his
move to Chelsea, the jury is still out on him. There was enormous pressure
on him to deliver, being the son of Frank Lampard Snr. and the nephew of
Harry Redknapp. But let's remember that we did troll our very own Academy
graduate. At the age of just 19, the lad was mocked after he broke his leg
during a match against Aston Villa. Seriously, how can our fans justify
that?
Some 18 years ago, our U19's team demolished Coventry City in the FA Youth
Cup final winning 9-0 on aggregate in two remarkable legs. In the second leg
played at the Boleyn, there were more than 26,000 spectators. Maestro Joe
Cole ran the show with Michael Carrick on the wing. The quality on show was
just something else! That said, many of our Academy players decided to leave
years later. Have we now got a preference for more expensive enforcements
than home-grown youngsters?
Relegation in 2003 cost us dearly. We sold Carrick, Cole, Defoe, Johnson, as
well as the the Academy skipper Billy Mehmet. It has taken us 15 years to
recover from it. Our current youngsters are doing well, winning the U21
Premier League Cup led by Reece Oxford. But we need to remove our feeder
club image. I'm sure that most of you will agree that we should keep our
current youngsters. Let's continue our legacy of producing young starlets!
When West Ham beat West Germany, Peters one and Geoffrey three, and Bobby
got his OBE! #
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Winston Reid responds when asked if Payet's exit was solution to West Ham's
problems
HITC
Antony Martin
West Ham United look like a totally different team to the one that struggled
earlier on in the season. Hammers centre-back Winston Reid sat down for an
exclusive interview with the club's official website, and discussed the
affect that Dimitri Payet's departure had on the squad as a whole. Slaven
Bilic's side have managed to turn their season around over the last two
months, winning six and drawing one of their last 10 Premier League outings,
and they now find themselves sitting comfortably in the top half of the
table, just nine points adrift of seventh placed Everton. Many fans and
pundits alike attributed West Ham's turnaround in fortunes to Payet's exit
from the club. And the manner in which some of the Hammers players have
flourished in the absence of the Marseille man certainly lends credence to
that notion. Reid offered a carefully worded reply, however, when asked if
the Frenchman leaving the club led to a more unified feeling amongst the
squad, as quoted by WHUFC.com: "I don't want to pinpoint the whole situation
on Dimi, because I think that would be unfair. He had his own issue which he
had to deal with in his own way, which he did, and we're past that now. He's
happy and we're happy as well, so we'll just move forward and do our best."
The Hammers squad have been enjoying a mid-season warm weather training camp
in Dubai over the past few days, and will be hoping to return to action
next weekend against Watford refreshed both mentally and physically. And if
they can pick up a victory at Vicarage Road, there will be genuine optimism
that they can make a push for the final Europa League spot over the
remainder of the campaign.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, February 21
Monday, February 20
Daily WHUFC News - 20th February 2017
Reid convinced confidence is climbing
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid says results and confidence are going hand-in-hand for West Ham
United
The Hammers have won six of their last ten Premier League matches
Centre-half says arrivals of Robert Snodgrass and Jose Fonte have 'freshened
things up'
Winston Reid says West Ham United are enjoying a virtuous circle of winning
games and growing confidence at present.
The Hammers have won six of their last ten Premier League matches to rise
into the top half of the table, while generally looking more resilient and
solid in defence than they did in the early months of the season.
Reid and his teammates are currently in Dubai recharging their batteries for
the run-in, with 13 matches still to play, and the No2 says morale is high
in the camp after a productive eight weeks.
"We started the season bang average but, to be fair, we've been playing all
right for a while now," observed the centre-half, who has started 22 of West
Ham's 25 Premier League fixtures, including all nine victories.
"Obviously we did get hit with a couple of bad results against Man City [in
the Emirates FA Cup and Premier League], which were a bit tough to take, but
generally we've improved.
"It's been a combination of things. We've had a few people coming back from
injuries, people getting up to match-fitness and people in form. When you
win games, you get more confidence, and we've been winning games, so
everyone is happier around the place and that shows out on the pitch."
Reid said that growing confidence was evident in last weekend's 2-2 draw
with West Bromwich Albion, when the Hammers recovered from conceding an
early goal to produce a dominant display at London Stadium.
On the road, the Hammers have lost just one of their last six away league
games – an unfortunate 1-0 reverse at Leicester City – drawn at Manchester
United and Liverpool and won at Swansea City, Middlesbrough and Southampton.
"In the last game we played against West Brom, even though we were 1-0
behind, we were the better team throughout the game, whereas we might have
crumbled a couple of months ago," Reid continued.
"We didn't get the win in the end [due to a last-gasp set-piece equaliser],
but over the 90 minutes that was probably our best performance of the
season.
"It's obviously a bit different when you go away from home because you know
that, at some stages of the game, you're going to be under pressure, but
we're improving which is good."
Winston Reid is building a relationship with recent signing Jose Fonte
So, why have performances and, in turn, results improved so dramatically?
While many would have you believe that Dimitri Payet's departure was the
solution to all the squad's problems, Reid was more eager to focus on the
positive impact made by January signings Robert Snodgrass and his new
defensive partner Jose Fonte.
"I think getting a couple of new players in has freshened things up and
everyone is on the same page," he explained.
"I don't want to pinpoint the whole situation on Dimi, because I think that
would be unfair. He had his own issue which he had to deal with in his own
way, which he did, and we're past that now. He's happy and we're happy as
well, so we'll just move forward and do our best.
"It's been good. Obviously it takes time to build up an understanding but
it's improving with every game. Jose and Snoddy have fitted into the group
really well, and that's also important, that we've signed not only good
footballers, but good people as well who fit within the group."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kemp - The whole team is buzzing
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Premier League 2 face Fulham at London Stadium on Monday
It's free for Season Ticket Holders to watch the young Hammers in London
derby action
Winger Dan Kemp says the whole squad is excited to step out on the London
Stadium turf
West Ham United's Dan Kemp revealed the whole U23 squad are buzzing to step
out on the London Stadium turf on Monday when they take on Fulham in Premier
League 2.
The London derby is the Hammers' first of three home matches to be hosted at
the venue this campaign and Season Ticket Holders can watch the youngsters
in action for free.
Non-Season Ticket Holders can secure their seat for just £5 for adults and
£3 for under-16s and over-65s, though all tickets need to be purchased in
advance for the fixture.
Book your free tickets now – on General Sale
Ahead of the clash, Kemp said: "It's going to be a massive, massive game and
everyone's buzzing. Obviously it's the first time that we've got the chance
to play at London Stadium, so all the boys are looking forward to it.
"We're buzzing even more off the back of the win we got against Nottingham
Forest on Monday. We're looking for another big performance against Fulham,
so it should be a great London derby.
"I myself haven't trained there yet either, so for me it will be brilliant.
The surface will be better than what we're used to at Dagenham, but yeah,
everyone's buzzing!"
Terry Westley's outfit were beaten convincingly by Fulham at Craven Cottage
earlier this term, so Kemp and his teammates will be out for revenge this
time around.
"We were beaten 4-1 by them last year, so it's a chance for us to prove a
point against them," he continued. "It's a big stage, but we'll all be
buzzing with confidence and hopefully we'll go into that game and look to
beat them.
"Obviously in this match, it's up to us as individuals and as a team to show
our talent. We've all be doing that in all our games this season, to be
fair.
"On that stage, there will be more fans and it's more of an opportunity to
show everyone what we can do."
Season Ticket Holders can gain free admittance when booked within the Season
Ticket window - but please be aware that all tickets need to be booked in
advance due to a capacity limit for this game.
All supporters can claim their ticket now by visiting
eticketing.co.uk/whufc, calling 0333 030 1966, or visiting the London
Stadium Ticket Office in person.
Non-Season Ticket Holders can purchase tickets for just £5 adults and £3
under-16s and over-65s.
Tickets are on General Sale now!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MARK NOBLE CRITICISM IS BOTH EMBARRASSING AND UNFAIR
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 12:54PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Daniel Fisk @fisko27
While social media may well represent the opinion of a small minority that
shout the loudest, I can't help but feel embarrassed by what seems to be a
rising swell of negatively towards Mark Noble.
I don't think there is much argument between Hammer's fans as to Mark
Noble's status at the club; 'Mr West Ham' embodies the loyalty, passion and
commitment seen so rarely in today's game, and watching a boyhood fan
captain the club is something to be cherished.
Increasingly though, Noble's form seems to have led to increasingly vocal
sections of our support calling for him to be dropped from the starting
eleven.
I fully support the idea that any team selection should be made on merit.
Elite football is a pure meritocracy in which previous achievements and
personality mean little if a player isn't doing the business on the pitch.
And I don't think that Mark Noble should be picked indefinitely just because
he is an inspirational captain and club legend.
However, I he think he deserves a lot more respect and I think the attitude
of certain West Ham fans towards him is embarrassing.
Personally I think the criticism of his form is overdone. The usual gripes
of "he gives the ball away" or "he slows the play down too much" are
ignorant. Mark Noble shows bravery on the ball that others don't, and too
often he lacks the support of players making forward runs beyond our
striker.
This season the usual shout is to drop Noble and start Kouyate and Obiang in
the middle. Slav hasn't gone for that much and there will be a reason behind
that. Although I think Kouyate has filled in well as part of a back three
this season, as a midfielder I think he has regressed from the dynamic
box-to-box player that burst on to scene in 2014.
Slav dropping Noble means his dropping his lieutenant on the pitch and the
biggest leader in the dressing room, and clearly this holds sway with the
manager.
The fact is our win record is also significantly better in games when Mark
Noble starts.
One-club-legends like Mark Noble are a rare breed, and I think we should be
proud that we have one as our captain. I hope Mark gets a bit more respect
from certain quarters as he approaches the latter stages of his career as a
guaranteed starter for West Ham.
COYI
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid says results and confidence are going hand-in-hand for West Ham
United
The Hammers have won six of their last ten Premier League matches
Centre-half says arrivals of Robert Snodgrass and Jose Fonte have 'freshened
things up'
Winston Reid says West Ham United are enjoying a virtuous circle of winning
games and growing confidence at present.
The Hammers have won six of their last ten Premier League matches to rise
into the top half of the table, while generally looking more resilient and
solid in defence than they did in the early months of the season.
Reid and his teammates are currently in Dubai recharging their batteries for
the run-in, with 13 matches still to play, and the No2 says morale is high
in the camp after a productive eight weeks.
"We started the season bang average but, to be fair, we've been playing all
right for a while now," observed the centre-half, who has started 22 of West
Ham's 25 Premier League fixtures, including all nine victories.
"Obviously we did get hit with a couple of bad results against Man City [in
the Emirates FA Cup and Premier League], which were a bit tough to take, but
generally we've improved.
"It's been a combination of things. We've had a few people coming back from
injuries, people getting up to match-fitness and people in form. When you
win games, you get more confidence, and we've been winning games, so
everyone is happier around the place and that shows out on the pitch."
Reid said that growing confidence was evident in last weekend's 2-2 draw
with West Bromwich Albion, when the Hammers recovered from conceding an
early goal to produce a dominant display at London Stadium.
On the road, the Hammers have lost just one of their last six away league
games – an unfortunate 1-0 reverse at Leicester City – drawn at Manchester
United and Liverpool and won at Swansea City, Middlesbrough and Southampton.
"In the last game we played against West Brom, even though we were 1-0
behind, we were the better team throughout the game, whereas we might have
crumbled a couple of months ago," Reid continued.
"We didn't get the win in the end [due to a last-gasp set-piece equaliser],
but over the 90 minutes that was probably our best performance of the
season.
"It's obviously a bit different when you go away from home because you know
that, at some stages of the game, you're going to be under pressure, but
we're improving which is good."
Winston Reid is building a relationship with recent signing Jose Fonte
So, why have performances and, in turn, results improved so dramatically?
While many would have you believe that Dimitri Payet's departure was the
solution to all the squad's problems, Reid was more eager to focus on the
positive impact made by January signings Robert Snodgrass and his new
defensive partner Jose Fonte.
"I think getting a couple of new players in has freshened things up and
everyone is on the same page," he explained.
"I don't want to pinpoint the whole situation on Dimi, because I think that
would be unfair. He had his own issue which he had to deal with in his own
way, which he did, and we're past that now. He's happy and we're happy as
well, so we'll just move forward and do our best.
"It's been good. Obviously it takes time to build up an understanding but
it's improving with every game. Jose and Snoddy have fitted into the group
really well, and that's also important, that we've signed not only good
footballers, but good people as well who fit within the group."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kemp - The whole team is buzzing
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Premier League 2 face Fulham at London Stadium on Monday
It's free for Season Ticket Holders to watch the young Hammers in London
derby action
Winger Dan Kemp says the whole squad is excited to step out on the London
Stadium turf
West Ham United's Dan Kemp revealed the whole U23 squad are buzzing to step
out on the London Stadium turf on Monday when they take on Fulham in Premier
League 2.
The London derby is the Hammers' first of three home matches to be hosted at
the venue this campaign and Season Ticket Holders can watch the youngsters
in action for free.
Non-Season Ticket Holders can secure their seat for just £5 for adults and
£3 for under-16s and over-65s, though all tickets need to be purchased in
advance for the fixture.
Book your free tickets now – on General Sale
Ahead of the clash, Kemp said: "It's going to be a massive, massive game and
everyone's buzzing. Obviously it's the first time that we've got the chance
to play at London Stadium, so all the boys are looking forward to it.
"We're buzzing even more off the back of the win we got against Nottingham
Forest on Monday. We're looking for another big performance against Fulham,
so it should be a great London derby.
"I myself haven't trained there yet either, so for me it will be brilliant.
The surface will be better than what we're used to at Dagenham, but yeah,
everyone's buzzing!"
Terry Westley's outfit were beaten convincingly by Fulham at Craven Cottage
earlier this term, so Kemp and his teammates will be out for revenge this
time around.
"We were beaten 4-1 by them last year, so it's a chance for us to prove a
point against them," he continued. "It's a big stage, but we'll all be
buzzing with confidence and hopefully we'll go into that game and look to
beat them.
"Obviously in this match, it's up to us as individuals and as a team to show
our talent. We've all be doing that in all our games this season, to be
fair.
"On that stage, there will be more fans and it's more of an opportunity to
show everyone what we can do."
Season Ticket Holders can gain free admittance when booked within the Season
Ticket window - but please be aware that all tickets need to be booked in
advance due to a capacity limit for this game.
All supporters can claim their ticket now by visiting
eticketing.co.uk/whufc, calling 0333 030 1966, or visiting the London
Stadium Ticket Office in person.
Non-Season Ticket Holders can purchase tickets for just £5 adults and £3
under-16s and over-65s.
Tickets are on General Sale now!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MARK NOBLE CRITICISM IS BOTH EMBARRASSING AND UNFAIR
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 12:54PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Daniel Fisk @fisko27
While social media may well represent the opinion of a small minority that
shout the loudest, I can't help but feel embarrassed by what seems to be a
rising swell of negatively towards Mark Noble.
I don't think there is much argument between Hammer's fans as to Mark
Noble's status at the club; 'Mr West Ham' embodies the loyalty, passion and
commitment seen so rarely in today's game, and watching a boyhood fan
captain the club is something to be cherished.
Increasingly though, Noble's form seems to have led to increasingly vocal
sections of our support calling for him to be dropped from the starting
eleven.
I fully support the idea that any team selection should be made on merit.
Elite football is a pure meritocracy in which previous achievements and
personality mean little if a player isn't doing the business on the pitch.
And I don't think that Mark Noble should be picked indefinitely just because
he is an inspirational captain and club legend.
However, I he think he deserves a lot more respect and I think the attitude
of certain West Ham fans towards him is embarrassing.
Personally I think the criticism of his form is overdone. The usual gripes
of "he gives the ball away" or "he slows the play down too much" are
ignorant. Mark Noble shows bravery on the ball that others don't, and too
often he lacks the support of players making forward runs beyond our
striker.
This season the usual shout is to drop Noble and start Kouyate and Obiang in
the middle. Slav hasn't gone for that much and there will be a reason behind
that. Although I think Kouyate has filled in well as part of a back three
this season, as a midfielder I think he has regressed from the dynamic
box-to-box player that burst on to scene in 2014.
Slav dropping Noble means his dropping his lieutenant on the pitch and the
biggest leader in the dressing room, and clearly this holds sway with the
manager.
The fact is our win record is also significantly better in games when Mark
Noble starts.
One-club-legends like Mark Noble are a rare breed, and I think we should be
proud that we have one as our captain. I hope Mark gets a bit more respect
from certain quarters as he approaches the latter stages of his career as a
guaranteed starter for West Ham.
COYI
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, February 19
Daily WHUFC News - 19th February 2017
From the Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
I was thrilled to attend the record-breaking Family Fun Day at London
Stadium on Wednesday and to see so many fans turn out to watch the
first-team train.
I know that Slaven and the players enjoyed the opportunity to meet some of
the Club's younger fans and the whole day was a big success for everyone
involved.
Personally, I always enjoy the chance to meet the Junior Hammers and we
mustn't forget the importance of the next generation of West Ham United
supporters - they are the future of our great football club. We have put on
events like this in the past in a much smaller way at the training round or
the Boleyn Ground, but we can accommodate a lot more fans at London Stadium.
There were nearly 10,000 fans here this week - more than half of them
youngsters and it was so good to see.
We were all disappointed to only come away with a point during the game
against West Brom last weekend. We all thought Manuel Lanzini's impressive
late strike had secured the victory, but unfortunately we failed to hold on
and had to settle for a draw. The team are now back to their best and you
can see the emotion that Slaven had for the team on Saturday. He is a winner
and that is why we love him. That is why the fans love him and long may it
continue. I am confident about the final few months of the season. We had
unbelievable injuries at the start of the season but we are through that now
as we climb the table.
We made two fantastic signings in the January transfer window who both have
tremendous pedigree and we are thrilled with the outcome. Jose Fonte is a
seasoned professional and Robert Snodgrass is also a fantastic player. The
fans have warmed to him straight away and we could not ask for anymore. The
spirit in the camp is fantastic at the moment. I go to the training ground
and have not seen camaraderie like it in the 20-years I have been in
football.
On Thursday, I had the privilege of attending a very special event to honour
West Ham's legendary manager Charlie Paynter, who served the Club for over
50 years and was in charge from 1932-1950. Newham Council unveiled an
English Heritage Blue Plaque at Charlie's former home in Ladysmith Avenue,
East Ham, and I had the pleasure of meeting many members of the Paynter
family. Charlie Paynter is a true West Ham United legend and we must not
underestimate the part he played in building and strengthening West Ham
United at that time, through two world wars and as manager of the Club for
18 years. More than being a manager, though, he really did build things. He
built the strategy and the ethos of the football club that continues to this
day. And as 14-year-old, I had the good fortune to meet him when I played
for West Ham Boys against Portsmouth Boys at Upton Park. He came into the
dressing-room and shook everyone's hand, which was fantastic at the time and
a wonderful memory to have now. I know we now have Mark Noble as our Mr West
Ham, but Charlie Paynter was the original Mr West Ham. It is fitting
recognition for a man who did more than anyone to establish West Ham United
as one of the greatest football clubs in England. I'm sure he would also be
very proud, and very excited, about the direction that our Club is heading
in now.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers hold open training in Dubai
WHUFC.com
As part of West Ham United's mid-season training camp in Dubai, the Club
hosted an open training session at The Sevens Stadium on Saturday, and
plenty of passionate Hammers supporters came down to watch.
Over 200 fans, including many from the local Supporters' Club, the Dubai
Hammers, enjoyed the morning as their heroes got down to work at the
40,000-seater ground, which is home to the Dubai Sevens rugby outfit.
After an intense session in the United Arab Emirates heat - though not
sunshine - the players met their adoring fans to pose for pictures and sign
merchandise.
The Club also provided a number of the youngsters in attendance with West
Ham gifts, brought along from the Official Store in east London.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal 3-0 West Ham United U18s
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's U18s lost 3-0 away at Arsenal on Saturday
The Hammers conceded two late goals after missing two terrific chances to
equalise
Assistant manager Mark Phillips said he was happy with his side's attitude
and commitment
Assistant manager Mark Phillips praised his side's attitude and commitment
and said they more than matched Arsenal, despite losing 3-0 to their London
rivals.
The Hammers played their part in a tight, evenly-matched contest but
conceded two late goals, which meant the scoreline flattered the Gunners.
With one game left of the U18 Premier League South campaign, the Hammers
need a positive result at home to Chelsea next weekend to finish in the top
four and qualify for the Elite Merit Group.
"If you look at our second half performance, even the first half, it was an
even encounter. I think Arsenal had a little bit more quality in the final
third," said Phillips.
"We had a good discussion at half-time and came out with great attitude and
commitment. We had will, endeavour and had the better play in the second
half.
"At 1-0 we had that chance with Jahmal. Another fell to Odi [Spyrides]. We
had couple of situations where we could have made better decisions.
"Over the course of the 90 minutes, we definitely matched them. If we get in
the top four, we play the best teams and it would be a good learning curve."
The start to the game was very even with both sides having their share of
possession. Chances were at a premium, despite Anthony Scully just missing
the target from a 25 yard free kick.
However, Arsenal had the best chance of the opening exchanges when Joe
Willock struck the crossbar from a tight angle.
And it was the home side who took one of their rare chances in a tight first
half. Emile Smith-Rowe found space behind the Hammers back four to slot past
Rihards Matrevics.
The visitors came out firing in the second half and almost found their
equaliser within minutes of the restart. Conor Coventry slid in Jahmal
Hector-Ingram whose shot from a tight angle was well saved by Joao Virginia.
The Hammers certainly had the better of the second half and managed to get
in behind the Gunners defence on a number of occasions.
Their best chance to equalise, once again, came from Hector-Ingram. Jeremy
Ngakia battled brilliantly to retain possession on the right and the loose
ball fell to the U18s' leading marksman, who twisted and turned but was
again prevented by Virginia.
Against the run of play, Arsenal scored a late second after substitute
Robbie Burton volleyed home following a Hammers clearance. But the visitors
could have swiftly responded when sub Odi Spyrides shot over from six yards.
The result was secured when Smith-Rowe broke clear again to score his second
and Arsenal's third, but the Hammers headed east with their heads held high
after a battling display.
West Ham: Matrevics; Johnson, Eggleton, Akinola, Hannam; Mingi (Spyrides,
74), Coventry; Ngakia, Henry, Scully (Hamilton, 59); Hector-Ingram.
Subs not used: Rosa, Forde.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stat's A Fact - Antonio for England
WHUFC.com
Gareth Southgate will name his first squad as full-time England manager in a
few short weeks, with a host of talented wide midfielders hoping to be
included.
One player hoping to wing his way into Southgate's selection will be West
Ham United's Michail Antonio, who was included in the former Middlesbrough
manager's first caretaker selection in October 2016. Undeterred, the No30
has missed just one Premier League fixture since then, scored three times
and registered five assists in 13 top-flight appearances. Those statistics
are even more impressive when you realise Antonio has featured in four
different starting positions in those matches – seven as a right wing-back
or midfielder, four as centre forward, one as a second striker and the one
as a left wing-back! A determined and committed player, the 26-year-old
never complains with his lot and always gives his all for the team. As a
result, he has become almost indispensable to manager Slaven Bilic, who has
named him in his starting XI in 48 of West Ham's last 49 Premier League
matches – a groin injury ruled him out of the London Stadium loss to the
Gunners in December 2016. Antonio's versatility, consistency and
availability led to him passing the milestone of 50 Premier League
appearances in Saturday's 2-2 Premier League draw with West Bromwich Albion
– eight of which he started as a right-back. In those half-century of
appearances, the south Londoner has scored 16 goals and registered nine
assists – including three for winning penalties which were then converted –
meaning he has been directly involved in 25 of the 69 Premier League goals
the Hammers have scored while he has been on the pitch.
So, with Southgate preparing to pick his first England squad of 2017, how do
Antonio's goal and assist stats stack up against his compatriots? Pretty
well, actually.
Only Dele Alli has totalled more goals plus assists (32) than Antonio's 25,
but then the Tottenham Hotspur youngster has started just seven of his last
50 Premier League appearances in a wide position – all on the left side of
midfield. Barring injury, Alli, who has netted 20 goals and chalked up 12
assists in those games, will be in Southgate's squad – but what about the
competition among England's other wingers? Well, Liverpool's Adam Lallana
became a regular under Roy Hodgson and started both matches under Southgate
in November. He has eleven goals and 13 assists in his last 50 Premier
League appearances, so 24 direct goal involvements in total. Often used as a
striker by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, Theo Walcott has 16 goals and six
assists (22), while Manchester City's Raheem Sterling has registered 12
goals and eleven assists (23) in their last 50 top-flight matches. Ross
Barkley of Everton is the only other serious challenge numbers-wise, with
nine goals and eleven assists (20) over the same span.
Among the other Englishmen regularly getting their boots covered in chalk
are Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain of Arsenal (three goals and six assists) and
Nathan Redmond of Southampton (five goals and two assists), but neither have
statistics which stack up to Antonio's. In case you were wondering,
Manchester United youngster Jesse Lingard has played in the Premier League
39 times, scoring four goals and assisting three others. Clearly even
attacking wide players need to contribute more than just score and assist
goals, but Antonio's work-rate, strength and aerial ability add plenty more
strings to his footballing bow.
International players need to not only be outstanding ability-wise but, with
the 'squad' nature of tournament football, also offer versatility and
adaptability.
With those factors, and his outstanding statistics, in mind, there is a very
good case for Gareth Southgate to name Michail Antonio as the first player
(alphabetically) in his pride of Three Lions.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley - It is a great opportunity
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley says the U23s' first game at London Stadium is a great
opportunity for his young players
West Ham United PL2 are in action against Fulham at London Stadium on Monday
(7pm)
Tickets are on general sale now!
Terry Westley believes the U23s' first match at London Stadium is a great
opportunity for his young players to showcase their talents in a "wonderful
stadium".
The PL2 Hammers make their first appearance at the Club's new home on Monday
against Fulham (7pm) and Westley says everyone is looking forward to the
clash.
The young Irons have played every home game at Dagenham and Redbridge's
Chigwell Construction Stadium so far this season, and make the switch to
London Stadium for their final three home league matches.
"Everyone is looking forward to the game and the occasion," declared
Westley. "It's going to be difficult to pick an eleven, because there is an
awful lot of players that want to play in it, so we'll have to get our heads
together now to see what the team is going to look like.
"But what an opportunity for the players to play in that wonderful stadium.
It's a big pitch and it's got lovely grass, so it's a little different to
what we're used to at Dagenham and Redbridge! But, of course, we look
forward to the match."
Book your free tickets now - on General Sale
The Hammers cruised to a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the Premier
League Cup last week and go into their match with Fulham on a high.
Westley hopes that the victory can kickstart a positive run, as their
attention now turns to Premier League 2 and the aim of finishing in the
play-offs.
"Aston Villa and West Brom are on our tails now so we really want to try and
get something from the game," added Westley. "Fulham themselves have ideas
of trying to win the league, and they're now close to Swansea and the only
real threat Swansea have got at the top.
"So, it's sure to be a tough match for us. The first team are away on their
warm weather camp, so we're not going to get any players from them, and
therefore we'll have to be on our very best with the very good set of
youngsters we have got.
"It's a London derby as well, the first one there against Fulham, and we
want to try and finish in the top five of Premier League 2 and get in the
play-offs."
Season Ticket Holders can gain free admittance when booked within the Season
Ticket window - but please be aware that all tickets need to be booked in
advance due to a capacity limit for this game.
All supporters can claim their ticket now by visiting
eticketing.co.uk/whufc, calling 0333 030 1966, or visiting the London
Stadium Ticket Office in person.
Non-Season Ticket Holders can purchase tickets for just £5 adults and £3
under-16s and over-65s.
Tickets are on General Sale now!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ayew ready to play his part
WHUFC.com
Andre Ayew believes he is now ready to play his part in a positive end to
the season for the Hammers
The forward has recently been away at the African Cup of Nations with Ghana,
where his side reached the semi-final stage
He now hopes, with injury problems behind him, he can make a real impact in
Claret and Blue
West Ham United forward Andre Ayew, fresh off the back of an encouraging
African Cup of Nations campaign with Ghana, believes he is now ready to play
his part in a positive end to the season for the Hammers.
The Club's record signing, speaking to West Ham TV during the side's warm
weather training camp in Dubai, played every game for Ghana in Gabon,
building his fitness having missed the majority of the first half of the
season.
And the former Swansea City man now thinks he is ready to return to Slaven
Bilic's team and make an impact for the Hammers.
He said: "I'm happy to be back after a long African Cup of Nations. I'm
happy to be back, getting fitter and training and hopefully be ready to go
again.
"I'm fitter and though I need a few games to get to my top still, I know
football is all about confidence and we are playing well now and scoring
goals. So we need to get back into that and I can join the squad and add my
bit.
"It's so important for any player, that the squad is in good form and it
shows we have a good squad and the talent is there. Obviously we can't rest
on what we've done and we need to work hard for the next change, because
things can change in two games."
The 27-year-old not only featured in every one of his country's matches at
this year's AFCON, but also scored twice for the Black Stars.
Ayew netted half an hour into the team's opening group fixture against
Uganda, scoring from the penalty spot, before converting the winner, again
from 12 yards, at the quarter-final stage when they met DR Congo.
Though happy to bag twice for Ghana, Ayew was ultimately disappointed to
lose out in the semi-finals when they were beaten by eventual winners
Cameroon.
He continued: "We weren't really pleased with the progress, because when
you're Ghana, you are there to win the tournament and we have a good squad
with good players. We could have done better, but we gave our best and that
wasn't enough.
"It was a good tournament and especially for me, coming back from a long
injury, I wasn't sure that I would be able to go to the tournament which is
very important for me and my country.
"So it was pleasing because I was able to do that and get some minutes and
play all the games and get fitter and finish the tournament with no injury.
Hopefully I can use this to start a better year with West Ham.
"I scored in the first game, scored in the quarters, so two goals, two
penalties, it's not bad. I know I could have done better but due to my
injuries, I felt better as the games went on. I can use that to do a better
performance here."
Ayew's appearances in Claret and Blue have been limited due to the serious
injury he picked up on the opening Premier League day against Chelsea in
August, but he now feels his problems are behind him.
"It was very frustrating the start I had here. I think when you come, you
have good intentions and want to help the squad. Then you get a really bad
injury, and even when I got back I still had some pains and I was playing
through the pains.
"I was out for two months or maybe three. I knew if I didn't get injured
again, the pain would go and now I'm much, much better and I can help West
Ham."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andre Ayew reveals he played through the pain barrier for West Ham this
season
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
Andre Ayew says he is ready to help West Ham during the Premier League
run-in after finally putting his thigh injury behind him.
Ayew joined the Hammers from Swansea last summer but endured a disastrous
start to his career in east London.
The 27-year-old suffered a serious thigh injury during his West Ham debut on
the opening weekend of the season, ruling him out for several weeks.
Ayew has made just 12 top-flight appearances this season but is adamant he
is now ready to make an impact, having previously played through the pain
barrier in an effort to fully recover from his injury.
"It was very frustrating the start I had here," he told West Ham's official
website.
"I think when you come, you have good intentions and want to help the squad.
"Then you get a really bad injury, and even when I got back I still had some
pains and I was playing through the pains.
"I was out for two months or maybe three. I knew if I didn't get injured
again, the pain would go and now I'm much, much better and I can help West
Ham," he added.
Ayew has also missed West Ham's last five games after spending the majority
of January at the Africa Cup of Nations on international duty.
The Ghana international helped his side reach the semi-finals and was
pleased to build his fitness throughout the tournament even if it ultimately
ended on a sour note.
"We weren't really pleased with the progress, because when you're Ghana, you
are there to win the tournament.
"[But] it was a good tournament and especially for me, coming back from a
long injury.
"It was pleasing because I was able to do that and get some minutes and play
all the games and get fitter and finish the tournament with no injury," he
added.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five Premier League clubs eyeing contract rebel striker who could cost just
£8m
CHELSEA striker Dominic Solanke is reportedly attracting interest from a
host of Premier League clubs.
Daily Star
By Jamie Styles / Published 19th February 2017
Solanke, 19, looks set to leave Chelsea when his contract expires in the
summer. According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are unwilling to meet his
wage demands of £50,000-a-week. Arsenal, Everton, Sunderland and West Ham
are said to have all discussed offers for the youngster. Scottish duo Celtic
and Rangers are also credited with interest along with German giants Bayern
Munich. Liverpool have been linked but the report suggests they are likely
to look elsewhere with Bayer Leverkusen's Julian Brandt and Demarai Gray of
Leicester named as potential alternative targets for Jurgen Klopp. Solanke
would command a fee of £8m through a tribunal but teams from abroad would
only need to pay £300,000 in compensation. He joined Chelsea in 2004 but
has gone on to make just one first-team appearance during his time at
Stamford Bridge. The England Under-21 international scored seven goals in 25
league appearances while on loan at Vitesse last season.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
I was thrilled to attend the record-breaking Family Fun Day at London
Stadium on Wednesday and to see so many fans turn out to watch the
first-team train.
I know that Slaven and the players enjoyed the opportunity to meet some of
the Club's younger fans and the whole day was a big success for everyone
involved.
Personally, I always enjoy the chance to meet the Junior Hammers and we
mustn't forget the importance of the next generation of West Ham United
supporters - they are the future of our great football club. We have put on
events like this in the past in a much smaller way at the training round or
the Boleyn Ground, but we can accommodate a lot more fans at London Stadium.
There were nearly 10,000 fans here this week - more than half of them
youngsters and it was so good to see.
We were all disappointed to only come away with a point during the game
against West Brom last weekend. We all thought Manuel Lanzini's impressive
late strike had secured the victory, but unfortunately we failed to hold on
and had to settle for a draw. The team are now back to their best and you
can see the emotion that Slaven had for the team on Saturday. He is a winner
and that is why we love him. That is why the fans love him and long may it
continue. I am confident about the final few months of the season. We had
unbelievable injuries at the start of the season but we are through that now
as we climb the table.
We made two fantastic signings in the January transfer window who both have
tremendous pedigree and we are thrilled with the outcome. Jose Fonte is a
seasoned professional and Robert Snodgrass is also a fantastic player. The
fans have warmed to him straight away and we could not ask for anymore. The
spirit in the camp is fantastic at the moment. I go to the training ground
and have not seen camaraderie like it in the 20-years I have been in
football.
On Thursday, I had the privilege of attending a very special event to honour
West Ham's legendary manager Charlie Paynter, who served the Club for over
50 years and was in charge from 1932-1950. Newham Council unveiled an
English Heritage Blue Plaque at Charlie's former home in Ladysmith Avenue,
East Ham, and I had the pleasure of meeting many members of the Paynter
family. Charlie Paynter is a true West Ham United legend and we must not
underestimate the part he played in building and strengthening West Ham
United at that time, through two world wars and as manager of the Club for
18 years. More than being a manager, though, he really did build things. He
built the strategy and the ethos of the football club that continues to this
day. And as 14-year-old, I had the good fortune to meet him when I played
for West Ham Boys against Portsmouth Boys at Upton Park. He came into the
dressing-room and shook everyone's hand, which was fantastic at the time and
a wonderful memory to have now. I know we now have Mark Noble as our Mr West
Ham, but Charlie Paynter was the original Mr West Ham. It is fitting
recognition for a man who did more than anyone to establish West Ham United
as one of the greatest football clubs in England. I'm sure he would also be
very proud, and very excited, about the direction that our Club is heading
in now.
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Hammers hold open training in Dubai
WHUFC.com
As part of West Ham United's mid-season training camp in Dubai, the Club
hosted an open training session at The Sevens Stadium on Saturday, and
plenty of passionate Hammers supporters came down to watch.
Over 200 fans, including many from the local Supporters' Club, the Dubai
Hammers, enjoyed the morning as their heroes got down to work at the
40,000-seater ground, which is home to the Dubai Sevens rugby outfit.
After an intense session in the United Arab Emirates heat - though not
sunshine - the players met their adoring fans to pose for pictures and sign
merchandise.
The Club also provided a number of the youngsters in attendance with West
Ham gifts, brought along from the Official Store in east London.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal 3-0 West Ham United U18s
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's U18s lost 3-0 away at Arsenal on Saturday
The Hammers conceded two late goals after missing two terrific chances to
equalise
Assistant manager Mark Phillips said he was happy with his side's attitude
and commitment
Assistant manager Mark Phillips praised his side's attitude and commitment
and said they more than matched Arsenal, despite losing 3-0 to their London
rivals.
The Hammers played their part in a tight, evenly-matched contest but
conceded two late goals, which meant the scoreline flattered the Gunners.
With one game left of the U18 Premier League South campaign, the Hammers
need a positive result at home to Chelsea next weekend to finish in the top
four and qualify for the Elite Merit Group.
"If you look at our second half performance, even the first half, it was an
even encounter. I think Arsenal had a little bit more quality in the final
third," said Phillips.
"We had a good discussion at half-time and came out with great attitude and
commitment. We had will, endeavour and had the better play in the second
half.
"At 1-0 we had that chance with Jahmal. Another fell to Odi [Spyrides]. We
had couple of situations where we could have made better decisions.
"Over the course of the 90 minutes, we definitely matched them. If we get in
the top four, we play the best teams and it would be a good learning curve."
The start to the game was very even with both sides having their share of
possession. Chances were at a premium, despite Anthony Scully just missing
the target from a 25 yard free kick.
However, Arsenal had the best chance of the opening exchanges when Joe
Willock struck the crossbar from a tight angle.
And it was the home side who took one of their rare chances in a tight first
half. Emile Smith-Rowe found space behind the Hammers back four to slot past
Rihards Matrevics.
The visitors came out firing in the second half and almost found their
equaliser within minutes of the restart. Conor Coventry slid in Jahmal
Hector-Ingram whose shot from a tight angle was well saved by Joao Virginia.
The Hammers certainly had the better of the second half and managed to get
in behind the Gunners defence on a number of occasions.
Their best chance to equalise, once again, came from Hector-Ingram. Jeremy
Ngakia battled brilliantly to retain possession on the right and the loose
ball fell to the U18s' leading marksman, who twisted and turned but was
again prevented by Virginia.
Against the run of play, Arsenal scored a late second after substitute
Robbie Burton volleyed home following a Hammers clearance. But the visitors
could have swiftly responded when sub Odi Spyrides shot over from six yards.
The result was secured when Smith-Rowe broke clear again to score his second
and Arsenal's third, but the Hammers headed east with their heads held high
after a battling display.
West Ham: Matrevics; Johnson, Eggleton, Akinola, Hannam; Mingi (Spyrides,
74), Coventry; Ngakia, Henry, Scully (Hamilton, 59); Hector-Ingram.
Subs not used: Rosa, Forde.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stat's A Fact - Antonio for England
WHUFC.com
Gareth Southgate will name his first squad as full-time England manager in a
few short weeks, with a host of talented wide midfielders hoping to be
included.
One player hoping to wing his way into Southgate's selection will be West
Ham United's Michail Antonio, who was included in the former Middlesbrough
manager's first caretaker selection in October 2016. Undeterred, the No30
has missed just one Premier League fixture since then, scored three times
and registered five assists in 13 top-flight appearances. Those statistics
are even more impressive when you realise Antonio has featured in four
different starting positions in those matches – seven as a right wing-back
or midfielder, four as centre forward, one as a second striker and the one
as a left wing-back! A determined and committed player, the 26-year-old
never complains with his lot and always gives his all for the team. As a
result, he has become almost indispensable to manager Slaven Bilic, who has
named him in his starting XI in 48 of West Ham's last 49 Premier League
matches – a groin injury ruled him out of the London Stadium loss to the
Gunners in December 2016. Antonio's versatility, consistency and
availability led to him passing the milestone of 50 Premier League
appearances in Saturday's 2-2 Premier League draw with West Bromwich Albion
– eight of which he started as a right-back. In those half-century of
appearances, the south Londoner has scored 16 goals and registered nine
assists – including three for winning penalties which were then converted –
meaning he has been directly involved in 25 of the 69 Premier League goals
the Hammers have scored while he has been on the pitch.
So, with Southgate preparing to pick his first England squad of 2017, how do
Antonio's goal and assist stats stack up against his compatriots? Pretty
well, actually.
Only Dele Alli has totalled more goals plus assists (32) than Antonio's 25,
but then the Tottenham Hotspur youngster has started just seven of his last
50 Premier League appearances in a wide position – all on the left side of
midfield. Barring injury, Alli, who has netted 20 goals and chalked up 12
assists in those games, will be in Southgate's squad – but what about the
competition among England's other wingers? Well, Liverpool's Adam Lallana
became a regular under Roy Hodgson and started both matches under Southgate
in November. He has eleven goals and 13 assists in his last 50 Premier
League appearances, so 24 direct goal involvements in total. Often used as a
striker by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, Theo Walcott has 16 goals and six
assists (22), while Manchester City's Raheem Sterling has registered 12
goals and eleven assists (23) in their last 50 top-flight matches. Ross
Barkley of Everton is the only other serious challenge numbers-wise, with
nine goals and eleven assists (20) over the same span.
Among the other Englishmen regularly getting their boots covered in chalk
are Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain of Arsenal (three goals and six assists) and
Nathan Redmond of Southampton (five goals and two assists), but neither have
statistics which stack up to Antonio's. In case you were wondering,
Manchester United youngster Jesse Lingard has played in the Premier League
39 times, scoring four goals and assisting three others. Clearly even
attacking wide players need to contribute more than just score and assist
goals, but Antonio's work-rate, strength and aerial ability add plenty more
strings to his footballing bow.
International players need to not only be outstanding ability-wise but, with
the 'squad' nature of tournament football, also offer versatility and
adaptability.
With those factors, and his outstanding statistics, in mind, there is a very
good case for Gareth Southgate to name Michail Antonio as the first player
(alphabetically) in his pride of Three Lions.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley - It is a great opportunity
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley says the U23s' first game at London Stadium is a great
opportunity for his young players
West Ham United PL2 are in action against Fulham at London Stadium on Monday
(7pm)
Tickets are on general sale now!
Terry Westley believes the U23s' first match at London Stadium is a great
opportunity for his young players to showcase their talents in a "wonderful
stadium".
The PL2 Hammers make their first appearance at the Club's new home on Monday
against Fulham (7pm) and Westley says everyone is looking forward to the
clash.
The young Irons have played every home game at Dagenham and Redbridge's
Chigwell Construction Stadium so far this season, and make the switch to
London Stadium for their final three home league matches.
"Everyone is looking forward to the game and the occasion," declared
Westley. "It's going to be difficult to pick an eleven, because there is an
awful lot of players that want to play in it, so we'll have to get our heads
together now to see what the team is going to look like.
"But what an opportunity for the players to play in that wonderful stadium.
It's a big pitch and it's got lovely grass, so it's a little different to
what we're used to at Dagenham and Redbridge! But, of course, we look
forward to the match."
Book your free tickets now - on General Sale
The Hammers cruised to a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the Premier
League Cup last week and go into their match with Fulham on a high.
Westley hopes that the victory can kickstart a positive run, as their
attention now turns to Premier League 2 and the aim of finishing in the
play-offs.
"Aston Villa and West Brom are on our tails now so we really want to try and
get something from the game," added Westley. "Fulham themselves have ideas
of trying to win the league, and they're now close to Swansea and the only
real threat Swansea have got at the top.
"So, it's sure to be a tough match for us. The first team are away on their
warm weather camp, so we're not going to get any players from them, and
therefore we'll have to be on our very best with the very good set of
youngsters we have got.
"It's a London derby as well, the first one there against Fulham, and we
want to try and finish in the top five of Premier League 2 and get in the
play-offs."
Season Ticket Holders can gain free admittance when booked within the Season
Ticket window - but please be aware that all tickets need to be booked in
advance due to a capacity limit for this game.
All supporters can claim their ticket now by visiting
eticketing.co.uk/whufc, calling 0333 030 1966, or visiting the London
Stadium Ticket Office in person.
Non-Season Ticket Holders can purchase tickets for just £5 adults and £3
under-16s and over-65s.
Tickets are on General Sale now!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ayew ready to play his part
WHUFC.com
Andre Ayew believes he is now ready to play his part in a positive end to
the season for the Hammers
The forward has recently been away at the African Cup of Nations with Ghana,
where his side reached the semi-final stage
He now hopes, with injury problems behind him, he can make a real impact in
Claret and Blue
West Ham United forward Andre Ayew, fresh off the back of an encouraging
African Cup of Nations campaign with Ghana, believes he is now ready to play
his part in a positive end to the season for the Hammers.
The Club's record signing, speaking to West Ham TV during the side's warm
weather training camp in Dubai, played every game for Ghana in Gabon,
building his fitness having missed the majority of the first half of the
season.
And the former Swansea City man now thinks he is ready to return to Slaven
Bilic's team and make an impact for the Hammers.
He said: "I'm happy to be back after a long African Cup of Nations. I'm
happy to be back, getting fitter and training and hopefully be ready to go
again.
"I'm fitter and though I need a few games to get to my top still, I know
football is all about confidence and we are playing well now and scoring
goals. So we need to get back into that and I can join the squad and add my
bit.
"It's so important for any player, that the squad is in good form and it
shows we have a good squad and the talent is there. Obviously we can't rest
on what we've done and we need to work hard for the next change, because
things can change in two games."
The 27-year-old not only featured in every one of his country's matches at
this year's AFCON, but also scored twice for the Black Stars.
Ayew netted half an hour into the team's opening group fixture against
Uganda, scoring from the penalty spot, before converting the winner, again
from 12 yards, at the quarter-final stage when they met DR Congo.
Though happy to bag twice for Ghana, Ayew was ultimately disappointed to
lose out in the semi-finals when they were beaten by eventual winners
Cameroon.
He continued: "We weren't really pleased with the progress, because when
you're Ghana, you are there to win the tournament and we have a good squad
with good players. We could have done better, but we gave our best and that
wasn't enough.
"It was a good tournament and especially for me, coming back from a long
injury, I wasn't sure that I would be able to go to the tournament which is
very important for me and my country.
"So it was pleasing because I was able to do that and get some minutes and
play all the games and get fitter and finish the tournament with no injury.
Hopefully I can use this to start a better year with West Ham.
"I scored in the first game, scored in the quarters, so two goals, two
penalties, it's not bad. I know I could have done better but due to my
injuries, I felt better as the games went on. I can use that to do a better
performance here."
Ayew's appearances in Claret and Blue have been limited due to the serious
injury he picked up on the opening Premier League day against Chelsea in
August, but he now feels his problems are behind him.
"It was very frustrating the start I had here. I think when you come, you
have good intentions and want to help the squad. Then you get a really bad
injury, and even when I got back I still had some pains and I was playing
through the pains.
"I was out for two months or maybe three. I knew if I didn't get injured
again, the pain would go and now I'm much, much better and I can help West
Ham."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andre Ayew reveals he played through the pain barrier for West Ham this
season
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
Andre Ayew says he is ready to help West Ham during the Premier League
run-in after finally putting his thigh injury behind him.
Ayew joined the Hammers from Swansea last summer but endured a disastrous
start to his career in east London.
The 27-year-old suffered a serious thigh injury during his West Ham debut on
the opening weekend of the season, ruling him out for several weeks.
Ayew has made just 12 top-flight appearances this season but is adamant he
is now ready to make an impact, having previously played through the pain
barrier in an effort to fully recover from his injury.
"It was very frustrating the start I had here," he told West Ham's official
website.
"I think when you come, you have good intentions and want to help the squad.
"Then you get a really bad injury, and even when I got back I still had some
pains and I was playing through the pains.
"I was out for two months or maybe three. I knew if I didn't get injured
again, the pain would go and now I'm much, much better and I can help West
Ham," he added.
Ayew has also missed West Ham's last five games after spending the majority
of January at the Africa Cup of Nations on international duty.
The Ghana international helped his side reach the semi-finals and was
pleased to build his fitness throughout the tournament even if it ultimately
ended on a sour note.
"We weren't really pleased with the progress, because when you're Ghana, you
are there to win the tournament.
"[But] it was a good tournament and especially for me, coming back from a
long injury.
"It was pleasing because I was able to do that and get some minutes and play
all the games and get fitter and finish the tournament with no injury," he
added.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five Premier League clubs eyeing contract rebel striker who could cost just
£8m
CHELSEA striker Dominic Solanke is reportedly attracting interest from a
host of Premier League clubs.
Daily Star
By Jamie Styles / Published 19th February 2017
Solanke, 19, looks set to leave Chelsea when his contract expires in the
summer. According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are unwilling to meet his
wage demands of £50,000-a-week. Arsenal, Everton, Sunderland and West Ham
are said to have all discussed offers for the youngster. Scottish duo Celtic
and Rangers are also credited with interest along with German giants Bayern
Munich. Liverpool have been linked but the report suggests they are likely
to look elsewhere with Bayer Leverkusen's Julian Brandt and Demarai Gray of
Leicester named as potential alternative targets for Jurgen Klopp. Solanke
would command a fee of £8m through a tribunal but teams from abroad would
only need to pay £300,000 in compensation. He joined Chelsea in 2004 but
has gone on to make just one first-team appearance during his time at
Stamford Bridge. The England Under-21 international scored seven goals in 25
league appearances while on loan at Vitesse last season.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, February 18
Daily WHUFC News - 18th February 2017
Akinola - Strong season so far
WHUFC.com
West Ham's U18s travel to Arsenal for a London derby on Saturday The Hammers
only need a point to qualify for the U18 Elite Merit Group Tunji Akinola
believes qualification will round add to an already strong season
Captain Tunji Akinola hopes the U18s can round off their "strong" season
with a place in the U18 Premier League South top four.
Akinola and his teammates have lost back-to-back fixtures in the league but
are still in firm control of their own destiny, needing just a point from
their final two matches to qualify for the U18 Elite Merit Group. They
visit Arsenal this weekend (11am) and know a strong performance at London
Colney will stand them in good stead for the coming matches. "It's been a
strong season for us so far and the top four has been the aim from the very
start," said Akinola. "We want to test ourselves against the best and that
means playing Man City, Man United and Liverpool."
"We're on course to do that and hopefully we can get that point against
Arsenal at the weekend. "We need to get used to that because we'll be
playing against the elite teams if we qualify for the top four."
With a number of players on U23 duty and out through injury, Steve Potts and
Mark Phillips have been forced to select a number of U16 players in recent
weeks, handing rare appearances to Louie Watson, Ajibola Alese, Jay Mingi
and Odisseas Spyrides. Akinola believes it's a great opportunity for those
younger players to develop even further and test themselves against older
opponents. "It's great for the younger players who need this sort of test to
improve," added Akinola. "Development is the most important thing for us
younger players. "We've been missing a few players through injury but it's
vital for the younger players to come in and step up and get the
experience."
The U18s Hammers have lost their last two fixtures but Akinola knows exactly
what needs to be done to turn around their recent fortunes. "It's very
disappointing to lose two games in a row, especially at home. Our main issue
has been conceding from set pieces and we need to make sure that we change
that against Arsenal "No matter what Arsenal age group you play, it's always
a tough match. They like to pass around quite a lot so we need to be up for
the game."
West Ham's Under 18s take on Arsenal at the London Colney Training Ground on
Saturday. Kick-off is at 11am.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic - 'Lanzini has taken added responsibility'
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic said Manuel Lanzini has taken on added responsibility since the
departure of Dimitri Payet
No10 has scored and assisted twice apiece in West Ham United's last five
Premier League matches Manager also praised the influence of captain Mark
Noble and new boys Jose Fonte and Robert Snodgrass
Slaven Bilic says Manuel Lanzini is one of a number of players who have
taken on added responsibility since the departure of Dimitri Payet.
The No10 has assumed the role of central playmaker in the West Ham United
team, scoring and assisting twice each in the five Premier League matches
the Hammers have played after Payet's refused to play and subsequently moved
to Olympique Marseille.
Speaking to Premier League Productions, Bilic also praised the influence of
captain Mark Noble and new signings Jose Fonte and Robert Snodgrass in
helping turn the atmosphere surrounding the Club around in recent weeks.
"Manu is 23 and he likes to takes the responsibility but also he likes, he
wants and he needs to feels important, like many players do," said Bilic.
"Mark is a great captain. We have a really good atmosphere in the camp, on
the pitch and off the pitch, and then you have youngsters like Lanzini and
the new players who need to take the responsibility on and at the moment
we're doing that really good."
While West Ham have a good record against teams in the lower half of the
Premier League this season, the Hammers have failed to repeat the memorable
victories over the top clubs they achieved last season.
Twenty-eight of West Ham's 32 points have been won against teams in the
bottom half, while just two have been won from matches against opponents in
the top six - from draws at Manchester United and Liverpool. In contrast, in
12 matches against the top six last season, West Ham picked up 25 points.
So, Bilic was asked, how will he reinstate that belief among his players
that they can beat the best on a regular basis? His response suggested both
he as the manager and the players themselves had a collective responsibility
to creating the belief needed to take down the top teams - as happened a
year ago.
"They need proof and for that you also need a little bit of luck in the
beginning," he explained. "You can tell them 'Listen guys, no more losing
mentalities, work on setting standards in training' and it should always be
competitive and that they are training for something and all that.
"You can do that and tell them 'You are good enough, you are good enough'
but then last year it started great for us. You are telling them in training
'We are good, we are good' and then first game of the season we went to
Emirates away and won 2-0 and they go 'What he said is true! I'm good! Who's
the next one?' "It was Liverpool away and we won 3-0. After that, you have
your ups and downs but it's easier.
"I think I have had privilege in my life to talk football with top managers,
ex-managers and whatever and that's the key to making your squad improve,
not only technically but mentally."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cresswell - Dubai is great for team spirit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United left-back Aaron Cresswell thinks the side's mid-season trip
to Dubai will be a boost to the team spirit The squad are spending five days
in the United Arab Emirates as they recharge the batteries ahead of a
crucial few months England international Cresswell is delighted to be in the
warm weather with his teammates
West Ham United left-back Aaron Cresswell believes the Club's mid-season
trip to Dubai is great for the team spirit amongst the squad.
Slaven Bilic's men travelled to the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday for a
series of warm weather training sessions before they return to the capital
on Monday to look ahead to facing Watford next weekend. And Cresswell,
currently nursing a slight hamstring injury which he picked up in the side's
2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, thinks it's a great chance
for the squad to get together as a group. He said: "It's nice to all get
together and spend four or five days together. We've also got a couple of
new lads so it's a chance for them to get together with everyone and enjoy
it. "It's always good to get in something different for training, and of
course that's what we're getting with a bit of warm weather training. The
lads are working hard, and it's good to get out of the cold and into the
warm and get a bit done. "It's a chance to recharge the batteries and it's
always good for the body. We've got to continue the hard work here and take
that into the next week and go into the Watford game."
The Hammers were minutes away from coming to Dubai off the back of a Premier
League win, but Gareth McAuley's late header for Tony Pulis' team meant the
hosts were made to settle for a draw. And despite the late disappointment at
London Stadium, Cresswell claimed the focus now is all on travelling to
Vicarage Road. "It was disappointing, the game against West Brom, especially
for me coming off injured and sitting there to watch the goal go in in the
last minute," the England international continued. "It felt like a defeat
and we fully deserved the three points. "It would have been nice to come
here knowing that we had that three points on the table and it's
disappointing, but as I say, that's football and we have to forget about
that and look forward to the Watford game now. "It's a chance for revenge
and Watford have had an up and down season. But they've got some very good
players and we know it's going to be tough going away, but hopefully we can
get the three points. "I should be back towards the start of next week, when
we get back from Dubai, and hopefully I can get a good week's strengthening
here with the physios and look ahead to next week."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid attends disability session
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid enjoyed a special evening at the West Ham Foundation as he was
a star guest at the weekly disability session in Beckton.
Reid wasted no time getting involved in the action as he joined 25
participants for a fun game of football and was then happy to sign
autographs and answer questions from the youngsters.
The West Ham Foundation plays a big role in helping to support people of all
disabilities in the local community and supports a number of nationwide
programmes.
Anyone is welcome to attend the weekly disability sessions, which sees
people have a range of disabilities from visual impairments to hearing
difficulties and the Foundation are there to help everyone in the local
community.
Reid certainly received a special welcome as he walked out onto the pitch at
the Club's Foundation pitch in Beckton and knows the importance of the work
that is carried out in the local community.
Reid said: "It's nice in general to come and see the kids and put a smile on
their faces. They are really happy and they want you to be involved which is
great.
"I remember when I was a kid how amazing it was when you saw someone that
you maybe idolised so it's nice to come down here.
"It's important, you see that these children have disabilities but they can
still get out on the pitch and enjoy it.
"They get amongst each other and have a good competitive game of football
and that's what matters really at the end of the day and for the club it's
very important to be involved in the local community.
"Obviously we don't get to see everything that goes on but when you come to
these events you get to see personally what they do on a day to day basis
and it's an honour to be a part of it and to support the cause."
BT Sport were also present as they filmed a special documentary on the
night's event and spoke to a number of youngsters and staff involved in the
event to help promote the Premier League and BT Disability Fund.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic: I lost it against West Brom because I wanted West Ham to win
so badly
SLAVEN BILIC Evening Standard
Everyone makes mistakes and both myself and my assistant manager, Nikola
Jurcevic, will pay for ours following the £8,000 fine imposed on us for our
actions during the match against West Brom. I shouldn't have done what I did
but it was a game we should and would have won if just one decision had gone
our way. Of course, you don't expect referees to get it all right because
this is a game of mistakes and I make them - everyone makes them. Whoever
knows me will tell you I always make a point of saying how unbelievably
difficult it is for referees these days. Having said that, though, when it
happens as it did to us on five or six occasions against West Brom last
Saturday, it is hard to take. I am standing on the touchline, saying: "Just
give us one decision - just one!" It was simply too much. I am normally okay
on the touchline, I like to have a laugh with the fourth official and have
some banter with the opposition manager - I enjoy that and appreciate it
because in some other countries in which I have worked, that sort of
interaction is not encouraged. I love that aspect of working in the Premier
League but this was different. Yes, I am afraid I did 'lose it' a little at
the end but I knew what I was doing. It was one of those occasions when,
because of the level of frustration, you want to do something and there is
no force in the world that is going to stop you. You want to show everyone
how frustrated you are and although you know that your actions will result
in you being punished, still you do it. I also want to say how much I rate
Michael Oliver and he knows that. Last season, I can't remember him
refereeing any of our games but he was the fourth official at one of our
matches towards the end of the campaign. I said to him then: "I've got to
tell you, I like the way you referee, you are one of the best." I still
like him, it's hard for officials and it's nothing personal - I would have
done the same if my brother or my late father had refereed the game in that
way. To play so well and still not win, makes it doubly hard to take.
In the build-up to West Brom's first- half goal, for example, there was a
foul on Sofiane Feghouli. I wasn't happy then that we had a goal ruled out
but okay, after a TV replay, we saw that Michail Antonio was offside. We
then had three penalty appeals. By the law of averages, when that happens
you will have one decision go your way. Then, right at the end, they took
their throw-in many yards further up the pitch than was correct and we
conceded a corner. Then, when the ball came over, there were 10 people in
our six-yard box, bodies everywhere - and still no whistle, despite
everything that had gone on before. That's why I did what I did. Of course,
it was not the right thing to do and I am not proud of it, but it had
nothing to do with the pressure. Danny Murphy, who I rate highly, did his
best to explain it on TV by saying it was down to that pressure. No, it
wasn't like that. Of course, there is always pressure, but in this case it
was because I wanted to win this game and I felt we had deserved to do that,
despite not having those decisions go for us. We had turned the game around
after conceding that early goal, something which is not easy to do against
West Brom. It was maybe the best performance all season - that was why I was
so gutted we didn't win.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham will work harder in Dubai than in London, says Slaven Bilic
SLAVEN BILIC Evening Standard
By the time you read this column, we will be in Dubai for some warm-weather
training. We flew there overnight after training at the London Stadium and
meeting many young fans. It was great to see around 10,000 turn up for the
Family Fun Day. It is the first time I have taken a squad away in this
manner but it is common over here. We are going there to train first of all
and we will work harder than if we had stayed here. We will train in the
morning, have lunch together and then the players will have some free time
to recharge the batteries in a good and decent way. Cresswell told West
Ham's official website: "It's nice to all get together and spend four or
five days together. We've also got a couple of new lads so it's a chance for
them to get together with everyone and enjoy it.
"It's always good to get in something different for training, and of course
that's what we're getting with a bit of warm weather training. The lads are
working hard, and it's good to get out of the cold and into the warm and get
a bit done."
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WHAT VOID WILL MARK CLATTENBURG LEAVE IN ENGLISH FOOTBALL?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 17 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 3:26PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Sam Royden @SamRoyden
What void will Mark Clattenburg leave in English football after becoming the
Saudi Arabia's new head of refereeing? The answer is a big void!
In my opinion, Mark Clattenburg is one of the best referees and not only
within the Premier League and Europe but in the World. Last season,
Clattenburg officiated three of the biggest finals in European football: FA
Cup, Champions League and Euro 2016. The last referee from the English FA to
officiate two big competition finals in one season was Howard Webb in
2009/2010 season (Champions League and World Cup Final).
Clattenburg is a model for any aspiring referee, even those who have
recently qualified as a Level 7/8 referee or are getting a promotion as an
elite referee in the Premier League. Clattenburg consistently shows control
and composure throughout games making the right decisions the majority of
the time. Of course now and then he will make an error, but he is human
after all and that is one thing that can be forgotten when anyone is
scrutinising a decision which has been made, especially after us as fans can
watch the decisions played back and forth in slow motion whilst referees
can't in real time.
One of Clattenburg's biggest strengths along with his athleticism and
decision making, is his communication and player management. When
Clattenburg mades a decision, he is very animated with gestures and takes
time to speak to players to get them to understand why he's made that
decision. You see a lot of referees in the Premier League make a decision,
get flustered and then shy away from talking to the players and this
ultimately leads to a lack of respect.
Clattenburg hasn't shied away from controversy and in October 2014,
Clattenburg was dropped from officiating for two breaches of protocol –
speaking with then-Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock on the phone, before
leaving a ground alone to drive to an Ed Sheeran concert. Also, last year
Clattenburg got two tattoos on his left arm to celebrate refereeing the
Champions League and Euro 2016 finals – this is why Clattenburg wears long
sleeves or long sleeve under armour.
After Howard Webb retired in 2014, there was a period of uncertainty within
the PGMOL as referee standards dropped considerably over two seasons,
however Clattenburg stepped up and filled Webb's shoes very well. Now that
Clattenburg has gone, there is an opportunity for a referee currently
officiating in the Championship to make the leap up to the next level (the
Premier League), or there is now the opportunity for the likes of Graham
Scott and Paul Tierney to step up and make their mark on the season, after
currently making 12 appearances between them so far this season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DOES LOYALTY STILL EXIST IN FOOTBALL?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 17 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 3:33PM
TheWesTHamWay.co.uk
Written by Arun Janaka
History of 'Snakes'
Being a West Ham supporter, 'snakes' can go back as early as 1988 with Paul
Ince. The midfielder had been pictured in a Manchester United shirt before
any deal got done. Then to top it all off, the club got relegated the same
season. Even to this day his name is still mud in East London. Although he
claimed the photo got taken before going on holiday.
I now move to Jermain Defoe. Less than 24 hours after the club got
relegated, Defoe had submitted a transfer request. A refusal to sign a new
contract along with disciplinary problems, including three sending offs.
This led to West Ham accepting an offer from Tottenham for him in the
January transfer window. Fans of West Ham still hiss and boo at him when he
comes to play.
Now this player was different. Scott Parker a man who we thought bled claret
and blue had handed in a transfer request after once again, a relegation.
Parker got put on a pedestal by us West Ham fans and I guess it came and
slapped us in the face. In August 2011, Tottenham and West Ham both
announced the transfer of Parker, with the fee believed to have cost £5.5
million. However West Ham fans are still split on whether they hate Scott
Parker or not. I don't mind him. He did apologise to the fans before leaving
but everybody is different and the fact he went to spurs was why fans were
angry.
Do Contracts Matter?
The last story is definitely well-known by you readers. Despite signing a
glamorous 5 year contract earning 125k per week, months later after a 5-0
loss to Manchester City in the FA Cup, speculation arose that Dimitri Payet
had submitted a transfer request. This was evidently not a rumour as before
the league match against Crystal Palace the club had tweeted about it. At
first the club didn't want to sell the player, so he decided to take strike.
The club had gone on to win their next two games and he got sold to
Marseille for 25 million pounds. Payet is probably considered the worst of
the bunch at West Ham and he'll probably never be forgiven. Especially with
the amount of social media there is, to remind fans of his actions. Purely
due to the fact that he essentially had the club believing his lies to earn
money.
In recent news, winger Michail Antonio,who still has 4 years left in his
contract, had stated to the media that he's unsure on whether he's going to
sign a new contract but says, "his head hasn't swayed".He has been linked
him with a move to Premier League leaders Chelsea.However we understand West
Ham have no intention of selling the 26-year-old. The whole situation with
Payet has made me realise that giving him a new contract won't always mean
he stays.
Does Loyalty Still Exist?
Leading on from my last point, a contract doesn't always decide things. It's
the players' mindset, and these days you find it hard to have players like
Mark Noble such as or even like Sergio Aguero who's been at City for 6 years
now.
So here's my question, does loyalty still exist? In my opinion its fading
away especially in the premier league and it will be hard to find more
players that do stay at a club for at least the length of their contract as
more and more players, are getting bored with the same journey and would
rather prefer constantly improving their cash sum then leaving. I'd like to
see what you have to say about it so go ahead.
Thank you for reading today's article
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David Gold EXCLUSIVE: London Stadium feeling more like home for West Ham The
Hammers co-chairman says the club is settling in to its new surroundings in
Stratford
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE 12:15, 17 FEB 2017
They aren't at home right now, but West Ham co-chairman David Gold has said
the London Stadium is finally starting to feel that way.
In part two of his exclusive interview with football.london, Gold says the
club is still settling in to its new surroundings in Stratford, having made
the four-mile move from E13 to E20 in the summer. The problems of the start
of the season are well and truly behind the Hammers now and they can
certainly look forward, rather than backwards, with the new home also
hosting its first Family Day earlier this week. Gold said: "I absolutely
agree it feels more like home, especially in recent games. "You have to win
a few and we have started to do that now. Wherever you go, whether you have
been here 100 years or one year, if you're losing games they [the fans] are
unhappy. "They want to win games. Two things are happening, we are winning
games and we are settling in. It's feeling like home, we are solving the
problems which are inevitable when you move, but we are solving them. "The
future looks good and the family day we have had works well. It's the icing
on the cake, really."
The Hammers squad - minus Manuel Lanzini, Raphael Spiegel and Gokhan Tore -
are currently out in Dubai for some warm-weather training, though the sun
isn't actually out in the Emirates city, surprisingly. Gold re-iterated
manager Slaven Bilic's promise that the players will be training hard. They
have been as well, with two sessions already under their belts at the time
of writing. "They will be working hard, I promise you," Gold said. "There
will be some sweat going on this trip. I have spoken to Slaven, Mark [Woods,
goalkeeping coach] and Stijn [Vandenbroucke, physio] and they are going out
for a real serious time. "There will be no rest. Well, there might be some
chance but predominantly it is for a serious training sessions."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cheikhou Kouyate admits he does not like his nickname at West Ham
HITC Antony Martin
The West Ham United midfielder is key to the way in which his side play.
Hammers midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate sat down for an in-depth interview with
the club's official website, and shared how he gained a new nickname from
his teammates, following his ability to play in pretty much any position,
when Slaven Bilic has called upon him to do so. 'Mr Versatile', as he is now
known in the West Ham dressing room, has fully established himself as one of
the club's most important players, since making his £7 million move to the
club in the summer of 2014, and his absence from the Hammers' midfield
during his participation in the African Cup of Nations with Senegal hit the
club hard. The lack of physical prowess in the middle of the park was clear
for all to see, and now that he is back and available for selection, Bilic
will be confident that his side can continue their climb up the Premier
League table. The 27-year-old sat down for a wide-ranging interview with
WHUFC.com, and explained how he is happy to give everything for the team, no
matter what position he is deployed in: "I know I am known as our Mr
Versatile at the moment, but I don't really like this title! Every time we
don't have a left-back, I play at left-back and every time we don't have a
right-back, I play at right-back, which is very hard! I prefer to play in
midfield, but every time I play, whether it is there or at full-back, I will
give everything for the team. I play for the team and not for myself."
Next up for West Ham is a trip to Vicarage Road to take on Watford on
February 25th, and Bilic's men will be looking for revenge, after losing 4-2
to the Hornets in the reverse fixture earlier on in their campaign.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
IN PRAISE OF ARTHUR MASUAKU
By Iain Dale
17 Feb 2017 at 10:30
WTID
Even though I am part of the media, I sometimes scratch my head in
bewilderment at some of the stories which sports media journalists
manufacture. Several outlets are reporting today that West Ham are willing
to take a massive financial hit on Arthur Masuaku and sell him in the summer
- or even give him away.
When Masuaku came into the team after Cresswell was injured he was, for me,
an absolute revelation. He built up a tremendous understanding with whoever
played in front of him and showed some brilliant skills. Indeed, in the
first part of the season I remember putting him forward as a candidate for
Hammer of the Year.
His attacking abilities are superb. He can dribble and beat an opponent at
will. Defensively he is slightly less convincing and has a tendency to
panic, but overall I have been hugely impressed with him.
He had one dodgy game in which nothing went right for him, and it is on that
one game (was it Arsenal?) that too many people now judge him. He's never
been able to redeem himself as he's been injured ever since. He's on his way
back to fitness now and I hope he is given another chance in the first team
before too long. To write him off now is ridiculous.
it is said his former club of Olympiakos would have first refusal. Madness.
We have two excellent left backs, both of whom can play in more advanced
roles in a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formation. If Masuaku is happy to compete for the
left back position, why on earth would we even think of selling him?
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five reasons why Manuel Lanzini should stay with West Ham The Argentine has
recently remarked that he would like to return to River Plate
Football London
BYROB GUEST 19:00, 16 FEB 2017
West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini has become an integral part of the team
since his arrival in 2015, so his comments about a possible return to River
Plate certainly raised a few eyebrows amongst the club's fans. The
24-year-old left his boyhood club in 2014, but he told Argentinian
television channel TyC Sports that he wants to return to River at some stage
in his career. Lanzini is adored by the club's fans and would be welcomed
back with open arms after scoring the fastest-ever goal against great rivals
Boca Juniors. The Argentine penned a permanent four-year deal with the
Hammers in the summer and they will not want to let their prize asset depart
the London Stadium.
Here are five reasons why Lanzini should stay with the Hammers.
Become a club hero
Lanzini is already adored by West Ham's fans and if he stays he has the
chance to earn cult status. The diminutive player lit up Upton Park last
season with his dazzling displays and scored seven goals during his loan
spell from Al Jazira. Paolo Di Canio and Carlos Tevez are two of the club's
foreign players that have gone on to earn legendary status amongst the fans
following their displays for the team. Dmitri Payet was on his way to
earning that status prior to his well-documented transfer to Marseille in
January and Lanzini could well be the player to take on the mantle.
Build the team around him
Following Payet's departure, Lanzini is the go-to guy in the team now when
West Ham need a spark to bring the game to life. The player is vital to
Slaven Bilic's attacking play and he was on the scoresheet on Saturday in
the 2-2 draw with West Brom. Andy Carroll makes a huge difference for West
Ham when he is fit but Lanzini is the match-winner for the team. If West Ham
are to keep progressing in the league, then Lanzini is central to Bilic's
plans and the team can be built around him for years to come.
Help the club achieve a regular European place
The Hammers are still in the running for a European place this campaign but
their poor start could come back to haunt them come the end of the season.
Lanzini helped the club to a seventh place finish last season and achieve
qualification for the Europa League.
However, a 1-0 home defeat to Romanian side Astra Giurgiu in the final
qualifying round meant the Hammers didn't even make it to the group stage.
It will be a big ask for West Ham to qualify for Europe this season but with
Bilic in charge the have the right man who can put them in the running for
regular European football.
Money to spend in the summer
West Ham's failure to bring in their intended targets in the summer was
certainly well documented with a number of deals falling through. Money is
available for Bilic to spend and a busy summer is expected at the London
Stadium once the season draws to a close.
The club strengthened their ranks in January with the additions of Robert
Snodgrass and Jose Fonte, and they now have more money available following
Payet's £25 million transfer to Marseille. The Hammers are going to have to
strengthen their squad to ensure they can compete for a European place and
silverware on a regular basis if they want to keep Lanzini at the club.
Potential call-up to the national team
Lanzini has been vocal in the past about his hopes of receiving a call-up to
the Argentina national team. The 24-year-old was named in his country's
18-man squad for the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro but he had to pull out after
picking up a knee injury on international duty. Everton defender Ramiro
Funes Mori and Man City trio Pablo Zabaleta, Nicolas Otamendi and Sergio
Aguero are all regulars in the Argentina squad, so manager Edgardo Bauza
does watch the Premier League regularly. If Lanzini is to catch Bauza's eye,
as well as achieve his dream, it is vital that he stays with West Ham and
keeps them moving up the table with his classy performances.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Don Hutchison shares what West Ham United's Mark Noble recently told him
about Manuel Lanzini
HITC John Verrall
West Ham United midfielder Manuel Lanzini has scored twice in his last five
appearances. Don Hutchison has told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast Show,
which was broadcast on TalkSPORT on 16th February, that Mark Noble's been
encouraging Manuel Lanzini to fill the void left by Dimitri Payet's
departure at West Ham United. Payet left West Ham to join Marseille last
month, after deciding that his future no longer belonged at the London
Stadium. In truth, Payet has not been anywhere near his best throughout the
whole season and Noble had realised that the attacking midfielder was on his
way out. As a result, the Hammers' captain had been encouraging Lanzini to
believe himself, to try and draw his best form out of him. "Mark said that
he has been on at him for six months telling him that 'you can be our man,
you've got all the talent'. I think he's been living under Payet's shadow,
but now he's playing well and got his goal at the weekend," Hutchison said.
Lanzini has stepped up since Payet's departure, and become one of West Ham's
most important players in recent weeks. The Argentine midfielder has
sparkled though his performances lately, and appears to be playing to the
maximum of his ability. Payet's decision to leave seems to have galvanised
West Ham's, with their form starting to improve. Slaven Bilic's side have
climbed out of the bottom half of the table, to move up into 10th place in
the Premier League standings.
West Ham are next in action in two weekends' time, when they take on
Watford.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham's U18s travel to Arsenal for a London derby on Saturday The Hammers
only need a point to qualify for the U18 Elite Merit Group Tunji Akinola
believes qualification will round add to an already strong season
Captain Tunji Akinola hopes the U18s can round off their "strong" season
with a place in the U18 Premier League South top four.
Akinola and his teammates have lost back-to-back fixtures in the league but
are still in firm control of their own destiny, needing just a point from
their final two matches to qualify for the U18 Elite Merit Group. They
visit Arsenal this weekend (11am) and know a strong performance at London
Colney will stand them in good stead for the coming matches. "It's been a
strong season for us so far and the top four has been the aim from the very
start," said Akinola. "We want to test ourselves against the best and that
means playing Man City, Man United and Liverpool."
"We're on course to do that and hopefully we can get that point against
Arsenal at the weekend. "We need to get used to that because we'll be
playing against the elite teams if we qualify for the top four."
With a number of players on U23 duty and out through injury, Steve Potts and
Mark Phillips have been forced to select a number of U16 players in recent
weeks, handing rare appearances to Louie Watson, Ajibola Alese, Jay Mingi
and Odisseas Spyrides. Akinola believes it's a great opportunity for those
younger players to develop even further and test themselves against older
opponents. "It's great for the younger players who need this sort of test to
improve," added Akinola. "Development is the most important thing for us
younger players. "We've been missing a few players through injury but it's
vital for the younger players to come in and step up and get the
experience."
The U18s Hammers have lost their last two fixtures but Akinola knows exactly
what needs to be done to turn around their recent fortunes. "It's very
disappointing to lose two games in a row, especially at home. Our main issue
has been conceding from set pieces and we need to make sure that we change
that against Arsenal "No matter what Arsenal age group you play, it's always
a tough match. They like to pass around quite a lot so we need to be up for
the game."
West Ham's Under 18s take on Arsenal at the London Colney Training Ground on
Saturday. Kick-off is at 11am.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic - 'Lanzini has taken added responsibility'
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic said Manuel Lanzini has taken on added responsibility since the
departure of Dimitri Payet
No10 has scored and assisted twice apiece in West Ham United's last five
Premier League matches Manager also praised the influence of captain Mark
Noble and new boys Jose Fonte and Robert Snodgrass
Slaven Bilic says Manuel Lanzini is one of a number of players who have
taken on added responsibility since the departure of Dimitri Payet.
The No10 has assumed the role of central playmaker in the West Ham United
team, scoring and assisting twice each in the five Premier League matches
the Hammers have played after Payet's refused to play and subsequently moved
to Olympique Marseille.
Speaking to Premier League Productions, Bilic also praised the influence of
captain Mark Noble and new signings Jose Fonte and Robert Snodgrass in
helping turn the atmosphere surrounding the Club around in recent weeks.
"Manu is 23 and he likes to takes the responsibility but also he likes, he
wants and he needs to feels important, like many players do," said Bilic.
"Mark is a great captain. We have a really good atmosphere in the camp, on
the pitch and off the pitch, and then you have youngsters like Lanzini and
the new players who need to take the responsibility on and at the moment
we're doing that really good."
While West Ham have a good record against teams in the lower half of the
Premier League this season, the Hammers have failed to repeat the memorable
victories over the top clubs they achieved last season.
Twenty-eight of West Ham's 32 points have been won against teams in the
bottom half, while just two have been won from matches against opponents in
the top six - from draws at Manchester United and Liverpool. In contrast, in
12 matches against the top six last season, West Ham picked up 25 points.
So, Bilic was asked, how will he reinstate that belief among his players
that they can beat the best on a regular basis? His response suggested both
he as the manager and the players themselves had a collective responsibility
to creating the belief needed to take down the top teams - as happened a
year ago.
"They need proof and for that you also need a little bit of luck in the
beginning," he explained. "You can tell them 'Listen guys, no more losing
mentalities, work on setting standards in training' and it should always be
competitive and that they are training for something and all that.
"You can do that and tell them 'You are good enough, you are good enough'
but then last year it started great for us. You are telling them in training
'We are good, we are good' and then first game of the season we went to
Emirates away and won 2-0 and they go 'What he said is true! I'm good! Who's
the next one?' "It was Liverpool away and we won 3-0. After that, you have
your ups and downs but it's easier.
"I think I have had privilege in my life to talk football with top managers,
ex-managers and whatever and that's the key to making your squad improve,
not only technically but mentally."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cresswell - Dubai is great for team spirit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United left-back Aaron Cresswell thinks the side's mid-season trip
to Dubai will be a boost to the team spirit The squad are spending five days
in the United Arab Emirates as they recharge the batteries ahead of a
crucial few months England international Cresswell is delighted to be in the
warm weather with his teammates
West Ham United left-back Aaron Cresswell believes the Club's mid-season
trip to Dubai is great for the team spirit amongst the squad.
Slaven Bilic's men travelled to the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday for a
series of warm weather training sessions before they return to the capital
on Monday to look ahead to facing Watford next weekend. And Cresswell,
currently nursing a slight hamstring injury which he picked up in the side's
2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, thinks it's a great chance
for the squad to get together as a group. He said: "It's nice to all get
together and spend four or five days together. We've also got a couple of
new lads so it's a chance for them to get together with everyone and enjoy
it. "It's always good to get in something different for training, and of
course that's what we're getting with a bit of warm weather training. The
lads are working hard, and it's good to get out of the cold and into the
warm and get a bit done. "It's a chance to recharge the batteries and it's
always good for the body. We've got to continue the hard work here and take
that into the next week and go into the Watford game."
The Hammers were minutes away from coming to Dubai off the back of a Premier
League win, but Gareth McAuley's late header for Tony Pulis' team meant the
hosts were made to settle for a draw. And despite the late disappointment at
London Stadium, Cresswell claimed the focus now is all on travelling to
Vicarage Road. "It was disappointing, the game against West Brom, especially
for me coming off injured and sitting there to watch the goal go in in the
last minute," the England international continued. "It felt like a defeat
and we fully deserved the three points. "It would have been nice to come
here knowing that we had that three points on the table and it's
disappointing, but as I say, that's football and we have to forget about
that and look forward to the Watford game now. "It's a chance for revenge
and Watford have had an up and down season. But they've got some very good
players and we know it's going to be tough going away, but hopefully we can
get the three points. "I should be back towards the start of next week, when
we get back from Dubai, and hopefully I can get a good week's strengthening
here with the physios and look ahead to next week."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid attends disability session
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid enjoyed a special evening at the West Ham Foundation as he was
a star guest at the weekly disability session in Beckton.
Reid wasted no time getting involved in the action as he joined 25
participants for a fun game of football and was then happy to sign
autographs and answer questions from the youngsters.
The West Ham Foundation plays a big role in helping to support people of all
disabilities in the local community and supports a number of nationwide
programmes.
Anyone is welcome to attend the weekly disability sessions, which sees
people have a range of disabilities from visual impairments to hearing
difficulties and the Foundation are there to help everyone in the local
community.
Reid certainly received a special welcome as he walked out onto the pitch at
the Club's Foundation pitch in Beckton and knows the importance of the work
that is carried out in the local community.
Reid said: "It's nice in general to come and see the kids and put a smile on
their faces. They are really happy and they want you to be involved which is
great.
"I remember when I was a kid how amazing it was when you saw someone that
you maybe idolised so it's nice to come down here.
"It's important, you see that these children have disabilities but they can
still get out on the pitch and enjoy it.
"They get amongst each other and have a good competitive game of football
and that's what matters really at the end of the day and for the club it's
very important to be involved in the local community.
"Obviously we don't get to see everything that goes on but when you come to
these events you get to see personally what they do on a day to day basis
and it's an honour to be a part of it and to support the cause."
BT Sport were also present as they filmed a special documentary on the
night's event and spoke to a number of youngsters and staff involved in the
event to help promote the Premier League and BT Disability Fund.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic: I lost it against West Brom because I wanted West Ham to win
so badly
SLAVEN BILIC Evening Standard
Everyone makes mistakes and both myself and my assistant manager, Nikola
Jurcevic, will pay for ours following the £8,000 fine imposed on us for our
actions during the match against West Brom. I shouldn't have done what I did
but it was a game we should and would have won if just one decision had gone
our way. Of course, you don't expect referees to get it all right because
this is a game of mistakes and I make them - everyone makes them. Whoever
knows me will tell you I always make a point of saying how unbelievably
difficult it is for referees these days. Having said that, though, when it
happens as it did to us on five or six occasions against West Brom last
Saturday, it is hard to take. I am standing on the touchline, saying: "Just
give us one decision - just one!" It was simply too much. I am normally okay
on the touchline, I like to have a laugh with the fourth official and have
some banter with the opposition manager - I enjoy that and appreciate it
because in some other countries in which I have worked, that sort of
interaction is not encouraged. I love that aspect of working in the Premier
League but this was different. Yes, I am afraid I did 'lose it' a little at
the end but I knew what I was doing. It was one of those occasions when,
because of the level of frustration, you want to do something and there is
no force in the world that is going to stop you. You want to show everyone
how frustrated you are and although you know that your actions will result
in you being punished, still you do it. I also want to say how much I rate
Michael Oliver and he knows that. Last season, I can't remember him
refereeing any of our games but he was the fourth official at one of our
matches towards the end of the campaign. I said to him then: "I've got to
tell you, I like the way you referee, you are one of the best." I still
like him, it's hard for officials and it's nothing personal - I would have
done the same if my brother or my late father had refereed the game in that
way. To play so well and still not win, makes it doubly hard to take.
In the build-up to West Brom's first- half goal, for example, there was a
foul on Sofiane Feghouli. I wasn't happy then that we had a goal ruled out
but okay, after a TV replay, we saw that Michail Antonio was offside. We
then had three penalty appeals. By the law of averages, when that happens
you will have one decision go your way. Then, right at the end, they took
their throw-in many yards further up the pitch than was correct and we
conceded a corner. Then, when the ball came over, there were 10 people in
our six-yard box, bodies everywhere - and still no whistle, despite
everything that had gone on before. That's why I did what I did. Of course,
it was not the right thing to do and I am not proud of it, but it had
nothing to do with the pressure. Danny Murphy, who I rate highly, did his
best to explain it on TV by saying it was down to that pressure. No, it
wasn't like that. Of course, there is always pressure, but in this case it
was because I wanted to win this game and I felt we had deserved to do that,
despite not having those decisions go for us. We had turned the game around
after conceding that early goal, something which is not easy to do against
West Brom. It was maybe the best performance all season - that was why I was
so gutted we didn't win.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham will work harder in Dubai than in London, says Slaven Bilic
SLAVEN BILIC Evening Standard
By the time you read this column, we will be in Dubai for some warm-weather
training. We flew there overnight after training at the London Stadium and
meeting many young fans. It was great to see around 10,000 turn up for the
Family Fun Day. It is the first time I have taken a squad away in this
manner but it is common over here. We are going there to train first of all
and we will work harder than if we had stayed here. We will train in the
morning, have lunch together and then the players will have some free time
to recharge the batteries in a good and decent way. Cresswell told West
Ham's official website: "It's nice to all get together and spend four or
five days together. We've also got a couple of new lads so it's a chance for
them to get together with everyone and enjoy it.
"It's always good to get in something different for training, and of course
that's what we're getting with a bit of warm weather training. The lads are
working hard, and it's good to get out of the cold and into the warm and get
a bit done."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WHAT VOID WILL MARK CLATTENBURG LEAVE IN ENGLISH FOOTBALL?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 17 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 3:26PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Sam Royden @SamRoyden
What void will Mark Clattenburg leave in English football after becoming the
Saudi Arabia's new head of refereeing? The answer is a big void!
In my opinion, Mark Clattenburg is one of the best referees and not only
within the Premier League and Europe but in the World. Last season,
Clattenburg officiated three of the biggest finals in European football: FA
Cup, Champions League and Euro 2016. The last referee from the English FA to
officiate two big competition finals in one season was Howard Webb in
2009/2010 season (Champions League and World Cup Final).
Clattenburg is a model for any aspiring referee, even those who have
recently qualified as a Level 7/8 referee or are getting a promotion as an
elite referee in the Premier League. Clattenburg consistently shows control
and composure throughout games making the right decisions the majority of
the time. Of course now and then he will make an error, but he is human
after all and that is one thing that can be forgotten when anyone is
scrutinising a decision which has been made, especially after us as fans can
watch the decisions played back and forth in slow motion whilst referees
can't in real time.
One of Clattenburg's biggest strengths along with his athleticism and
decision making, is his communication and player management. When
Clattenburg mades a decision, he is very animated with gestures and takes
time to speak to players to get them to understand why he's made that
decision. You see a lot of referees in the Premier League make a decision,
get flustered and then shy away from talking to the players and this
ultimately leads to a lack of respect.
Clattenburg hasn't shied away from controversy and in October 2014,
Clattenburg was dropped from officiating for two breaches of protocol –
speaking with then-Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock on the phone, before
leaving a ground alone to drive to an Ed Sheeran concert. Also, last year
Clattenburg got two tattoos on his left arm to celebrate refereeing the
Champions League and Euro 2016 finals – this is why Clattenburg wears long
sleeves or long sleeve under armour.
After Howard Webb retired in 2014, there was a period of uncertainty within
the PGMOL as referee standards dropped considerably over two seasons,
however Clattenburg stepped up and filled Webb's shoes very well. Now that
Clattenburg has gone, there is an opportunity for a referee currently
officiating in the Championship to make the leap up to the next level (the
Premier League), or there is now the opportunity for the likes of Graham
Scott and Paul Tierney to step up and make their mark on the season, after
currently making 12 appearances between them so far this season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DOES LOYALTY STILL EXIST IN FOOTBALL?
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 17 FEBRUARY 2017 AT 3:33PM
TheWesTHamWay.co.uk
Written by Arun Janaka
History of 'Snakes'
Being a West Ham supporter, 'snakes' can go back as early as 1988 with Paul
Ince. The midfielder had been pictured in a Manchester United shirt before
any deal got done. Then to top it all off, the club got relegated the same
season. Even to this day his name is still mud in East London. Although he
claimed the photo got taken before going on holiday.
I now move to Jermain Defoe. Less than 24 hours after the club got
relegated, Defoe had submitted a transfer request. A refusal to sign a new
contract along with disciplinary problems, including three sending offs.
This led to West Ham accepting an offer from Tottenham for him in the
January transfer window. Fans of West Ham still hiss and boo at him when he
comes to play.
Now this player was different. Scott Parker a man who we thought bled claret
and blue had handed in a transfer request after once again, a relegation.
Parker got put on a pedestal by us West Ham fans and I guess it came and
slapped us in the face. In August 2011, Tottenham and West Ham both
announced the transfer of Parker, with the fee believed to have cost £5.5
million. However West Ham fans are still split on whether they hate Scott
Parker or not. I don't mind him. He did apologise to the fans before leaving
but everybody is different and the fact he went to spurs was why fans were
angry.
Do Contracts Matter?
The last story is definitely well-known by you readers. Despite signing a
glamorous 5 year contract earning 125k per week, months later after a 5-0
loss to Manchester City in the FA Cup, speculation arose that Dimitri Payet
had submitted a transfer request. This was evidently not a rumour as before
the league match against Crystal Palace the club had tweeted about it. At
first the club didn't want to sell the player, so he decided to take strike.
The club had gone on to win their next two games and he got sold to
Marseille for 25 million pounds. Payet is probably considered the worst of
the bunch at West Ham and he'll probably never be forgiven. Especially with
the amount of social media there is, to remind fans of his actions. Purely
due to the fact that he essentially had the club believing his lies to earn
money.
In recent news, winger Michail Antonio,who still has 4 years left in his
contract, had stated to the media that he's unsure on whether he's going to
sign a new contract but says, "his head hasn't swayed".He has been linked
him with a move to Premier League leaders Chelsea.However we understand West
Ham have no intention of selling the 26-year-old. The whole situation with
Payet has made me realise that giving him a new contract won't always mean
he stays.
Does Loyalty Still Exist?
Leading on from my last point, a contract doesn't always decide things. It's
the players' mindset, and these days you find it hard to have players like
Mark Noble such as or even like Sergio Aguero who's been at City for 6 years
now.
So here's my question, does loyalty still exist? In my opinion its fading
away especially in the premier league and it will be hard to find more
players that do stay at a club for at least the length of their contract as
more and more players, are getting bored with the same journey and would
rather prefer constantly improving their cash sum then leaving. I'd like to
see what you have to say about it so go ahead.
Thank you for reading today's article
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Gold EXCLUSIVE: London Stadium feeling more like home for West Ham The
Hammers co-chairman says the club is settling in to its new surroundings in
Stratford
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE 12:15, 17 FEB 2017
They aren't at home right now, but West Ham co-chairman David Gold has said
the London Stadium is finally starting to feel that way.
In part two of his exclusive interview with football.london, Gold says the
club is still settling in to its new surroundings in Stratford, having made
the four-mile move from E13 to E20 in the summer. The problems of the start
of the season are well and truly behind the Hammers now and they can
certainly look forward, rather than backwards, with the new home also
hosting its first Family Day earlier this week. Gold said: "I absolutely
agree it feels more like home, especially in recent games. "You have to win
a few and we have started to do that now. Wherever you go, whether you have
been here 100 years or one year, if you're losing games they [the fans] are
unhappy. "They want to win games. Two things are happening, we are winning
games and we are settling in. It's feeling like home, we are solving the
problems which are inevitable when you move, but we are solving them. "The
future looks good and the family day we have had works well. It's the icing
on the cake, really."
The Hammers squad - minus Manuel Lanzini, Raphael Spiegel and Gokhan Tore -
are currently out in Dubai for some warm-weather training, though the sun
isn't actually out in the Emirates city, surprisingly. Gold re-iterated
manager Slaven Bilic's promise that the players will be training hard. They
have been as well, with two sessions already under their belts at the time
of writing. "They will be working hard, I promise you," Gold said. "There
will be some sweat going on this trip. I have spoken to Slaven, Mark [Woods,
goalkeeping coach] and Stijn [Vandenbroucke, physio] and they are going out
for a real serious time. "There will be no rest. Well, there might be some
chance but predominantly it is for a serious training sessions."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cheikhou Kouyate admits he does not like his nickname at West Ham
HITC Antony Martin
The West Ham United midfielder is key to the way in which his side play.
Hammers midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate sat down for an in-depth interview with
the club's official website, and shared how he gained a new nickname from
his teammates, following his ability to play in pretty much any position,
when Slaven Bilic has called upon him to do so. 'Mr Versatile', as he is now
known in the West Ham dressing room, has fully established himself as one of
the club's most important players, since making his £7 million move to the
club in the summer of 2014, and his absence from the Hammers' midfield
during his participation in the African Cup of Nations with Senegal hit the
club hard. The lack of physical prowess in the middle of the park was clear
for all to see, and now that he is back and available for selection, Bilic
will be confident that his side can continue their climb up the Premier
League table. The 27-year-old sat down for a wide-ranging interview with
WHUFC.com, and explained how he is happy to give everything for the team, no
matter what position he is deployed in: "I know I am known as our Mr
Versatile at the moment, but I don't really like this title! Every time we
don't have a left-back, I play at left-back and every time we don't have a
right-back, I play at right-back, which is very hard! I prefer to play in
midfield, but every time I play, whether it is there or at full-back, I will
give everything for the team. I play for the team and not for myself."
Next up for West Ham is a trip to Vicarage Road to take on Watford on
February 25th, and Bilic's men will be looking for revenge, after losing 4-2
to the Hornets in the reverse fixture earlier on in their campaign.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
IN PRAISE OF ARTHUR MASUAKU
By Iain Dale
17 Feb 2017 at 10:30
WTID
Even though I am part of the media, I sometimes scratch my head in
bewilderment at some of the stories which sports media journalists
manufacture. Several outlets are reporting today that West Ham are willing
to take a massive financial hit on Arthur Masuaku and sell him in the summer
- or even give him away.
When Masuaku came into the team after Cresswell was injured he was, for me,
an absolute revelation. He built up a tremendous understanding with whoever
played in front of him and showed some brilliant skills. Indeed, in the
first part of the season I remember putting him forward as a candidate for
Hammer of the Year.
His attacking abilities are superb. He can dribble and beat an opponent at
will. Defensively he is slightly less convincing and has a tendency to
panic, but overall I have been hugely impressed with him.
He had one dodgy game in which nothing went right for him, and it is on that
one game (was it Arsenal?) that too many people now judge him. He's never
been able to redeem himself as he's been injured ever since. He's on his way
back to fitness now and I hope he is given another chance in the first team
before too long. To write him off now is ridiculous.
it is said his former club of Olympiakos would have first refusal. Madness.
We have two excellent left backs, both of whom can play in more advanced
roles in a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formation. If Masuaku is happy to compete for the
left back position, why on earth would we even think of selling him?
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five reasons why Manuel Lanzini should stay with West Ham The Argentine has
recently remarked that he would like to return to River Plate
Football London
BYROB GUEST 19:00, 16 FEB 2017
West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini has become an integral part of the team
since his arrival in 2015, so his comments about a possible return to River
Plate certainly raised a few eyebrows amongst the club's fans. The
24-year-old left his boyhood club in 2014, but he told Argentinian
television channel TyC Sports that he wants to return to River at some stage
in his career. Lanzini is adored by the club's fans and would be welcomed
back with open arms after scoring the fastest-ever goal against great rivals
Boca Juniors. The Argentine penned a permanent four-year deal with the
Hammers in the summer and they will not want to let their prize asset depart
the London Stadium.
Here are five reasons why Lanzini should stay with the Hammers.
Become a club hero
Lanzini is already adored by West Ham's fans and if he stays he has the
chance to earn cult status. The diminutive player lit up Upton Park last
season with his dazzling displays and scored seven goals during his loan
spell from Al Jazira. Paolo Di Canio and Carlos Tevez are two of the club's
foreign players that have gone on to earn legendary status amongst the fans
following their displays for the team. Dmitri Payet was on his way to
earning that status prior to his well-documented transfer to Marseille in
January and Lanzini could well be the player to take on the mantle.
Build the team around him
Following Payet's departure, Lanzini is the go-to guy in the team now when
West Ham need a spark to bring the game to life. The player is vital to
Slaven Bilic's attacking play and he was on the scoresheet on Saturday in
the 2-2 draw with West Brom. Andy Carroll makes a huge difference for West
Ham when he is fit but Lanzini is the match-winner for the team. If West Ham
are to keep progressing in the league, then Lanzini is central to Bilic's
plans and the team can be built around him for years to come.
Help the club achieve a regular European place
The Hammers are still in the running for a European place this campaign but
their poor start could come back to haunt them come the end of the season.
Lanzini helped the club to a seventh place finish last season and achieve
qualification for the Europa League.
However, a 1-0 home defeat to Romanian side Astra Giurgiu in the final
qualifying round meant the Hammers didn't even make it to the group stage.
It will be a big ask for West Ham to qualify for Europe this season but with
Bilic in charge the have the right man who can put them in the running for
regular European football.
Money to spend in the summer
West Ham's failure to bring in their intended targets in the summer was
certainly well documented with a number of deals falling through. Money is
available for Bilic to spend and a busy summer is expected at the London
Stadium once the season draws to a close.
The club strengthened their ranks in January with the additions of Robert
Snodgrass and Jose Fonte, and they now have more money available following
Payet's £25 million transfer to Marseille. The Hammers are going to have to
strengthen their squad to ensure they can compete for a European place and
silverware on a regular basis if they want to keep Lanzini at the club.
Potential call-up to the national team
Lanzini has been vocal in the past about his hopes of receiving a call-up to
the Argentina national team. The 24-year-old was named in his country's
18-man squad for the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro but he had to pull out after
picking up a knee injury on international duty. Everton defender Ramiro
Funes Mori and Man City trio Pablo Zabaleta, Nicolas Otamendi and Sergio
Aguero are all regulars in the Argentina squad, so manager Edgardo Bauza
does watch the Premier League regularly. If Lanzini is to catch Bauza's eye,
as well as achieve his dream, it is vital that he stays with West Ham and
keeps them moving up the table with his classy performances.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Don Hutchison shares what West Ham United's Mark Noble recently told him
about Manuel Lanzini
HITC John Verrall
West Ham United midfielder Manuel Lanzini has scored twice in his last five
appearances. Don Hutchison has told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast Show,
which was broadcast on TalkSPORT on 16th February, that Mark Noble's been
encouraging Manuel Lanzini to fill the void left by Dimitri Payet's
departure at West Ham United. Payet left West Ham to join Marseille last
month, after deciding that his future no longer belonged at the London
Stadium. In truth, Payet has not been anywhere near his best throughout the
whole season and Noble had realised that the attacking midfielder was on his
way out. As a result, the Hammers' captain had been encouraging Lanzini to
believe himself, to try and draw his best form out of him. "Mark said that
he has been on at him for six months telling him that 'you can be our man,
you've got all the talent'. I think he's been living under Payet's shadow,
but now he's playing well and got his goal at the weekend," Hutchison said.
Lanzini has stepped up since Payet's departure, and become one of West Ham's
most important players in recent weeks. The Argentine midfielder has
sparkled though his performances lately, and appears to be playing to the
maximum of his ability. Payet's decision to leave seems to have galvanised
West Ham's, with their form starting to improve. Slaven Bilic's side have
climbed out of the bottom half of the table, to move up into 10th place in
the Premier League standings.
West Ham are next in action in two weekends' time, when they take on
Watford.
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