Preview - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
When and where?
West Ham United v Chelsea
Premier League
Monday 6 March 2017, 8pm GMT
London Stadium
What's the story?
West Ham United go for their second home win of the season against Chelsea –
and third in succession – when the Premier League leading Blues visit London
Stadium on Monday night.
Antonio Conte's men have romped into a ten-point lead at the head of the
table with a stunning run of form which has seen them lose just one of their
last 20 league fixtures.
One of their few setbacks in Conte's debut season at the helm came in E20 in
October, when goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes propelled
the Hammers to a 2-1 victory in the EFL Cup fourth round.
That did not throw the Blues out of their Premier League stride, however, as
it came in their middle of their 13-game winning streak which allowed them
to establish their formidable lead at the head of the table.
Chelsea won their last league match 3-1, putting Swansea City to the sword
with Cesc Fabregas, Pedro and Diego Costa all on target.
West Ham were ninth going into this weekend's fixtures, with two draws from
their last two games – 2-2 at home to West Bromwich Albion in mid-February
and 1-1 at Watford last week, when Andre Ayew's 73rd minute goal cancelled
out Troy Deeney's early penalty.
Slaven Bilic's side have lost just one of their last six Premier League
assignments, taking eleven points from that sequence.
Team news
West Ham United will hope to have Andy Carroll back for Monday's game, after
the No9 returned to training this week. He has been in scintillating form
recently, scoring four goals in his last four appearances – but missed those
games against West Brom and Watford.
Carroll could slot straight in for Michail Antonio, who will sit out due to
a one-match ban incurred for his sending off at Vicarage Road.
Angelo Ogbonna, Diafra Sakho and Gokhan Tore are all out injured.
For Chelsea, Antonio Conte has a fully-fit squad at his disposal, and former
Hammers loanee Victor Moses is set to feature at right wing-back.
Match Stat
Match stat
How do I get to the game?
Click here for our comprehensive Matchday Guide for fans attending Monday's
game at London Stadium, answering your questions on everything from
transport to catering.
For up-to-the minute news on the roads, London Underground, London
Overground and TfL Rail networks, click here. The latest service updates on
National Rail services can be found here.
A cool, cloudy night is expected in east London, with temperature at
kick-off 8C (46F).
How can I watch the game?
Monday's London derby is being broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports. You
can also follow all the action as it happens right here on whufc.com. Our
Live Match Centre carries free audio commentary from our radio partners BBC
London, social media updates and in-running stats, photos and more.
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From The Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
We are all looking forward to a London derby against Chelsea on Monday
evening and the opportunity to push ourselves back into the top half of the
Premier League table.
SEATS AVAILABLE ON TICKET EXCHANGE
Of course it will be a tough test against a side who are overwhelming
favourites to win the title, and were 10 points clear before Tottenham beat
Everton on Sunday afternoon, but we can certainly take confidence from our
performances against the Blues so far this season.
We were unlucky not to get something from the game in the reverse fixture at
Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend of the season, when Diego Costa
grabbed a late winner after being fortunate to stay on the pitch.
And then of course came our memorable win at London Stadium in the EFL Cup
fourth round. We were outstanding that evening and thoroughly deserved to go
through to the next round.
That victory looks even more impressive now when you consider the run that
Chelsea have been on since, but I see no reason why we can't produce another
winning display against Antonio Conte's side.
We are at home under the lights, London Stadium is becoming very special now
and I'm convinced the atmosphere will be absolutely electrifying.
And if you look at the teams we fielded in those previous two encounters, I
believe we are stronger now thanks to the players who have returned from
injury and the two new signings that came in during the January transfer
window.
I also think we are more together. Whenever I have spoken to Mark Noble or
been around the players recently, I've seen that camaraderie and spirit,
which is so important.
I must say, the two new boys, Fonte and Snodgrass, have certainly played
their part in that sense. They are two very experienced professionals with
fantastic character, and have made a very positive impression, both on the
pitch and in the dressing-room.
Fonte was magnificent in our last match at Watford, where our second half
performance deserved to earn us all three points.
The biggest disappointment of course was Michail Antonio's red card, which
rules him out of facing Chelsea. He has been in such great form, and is such
an attacking force when running on the ball.
With Andy Carroll hopefully back from injury, it would have been lovely to
have them both available, and for Slaven to have that selection headache in
the forward positions.
Nonetheless, we are now getting to a situation where we have international
experience and quality on the bench, which is a hugely valuable asset for
the manager. The performances in recent weeks have displayed that strength
in depth.
It all adds up to what should be a fantastic encounter on Monday night. I'm
truly optimistic that we will see a positive performance from the team,
spurred on by the passion and spirit of our fans.
That passion and spirit was certainly evident on Thursday night, when I
attended the premiere of the new Iron Men DVD at the Genesis cinema in Mile
End.
It was an incredible evening. The emotions swung backwards and forward, ups
and downs, the film was amazing. And the stars of it are the fans. Mabel
Arnold, for example, at 100-years-old, was just fantastic.
I thought it might just be an interesting documentary, but it was far more
than that. The film is truly captivating and takes you along all the highs
and lows of that unforgettable final season, which perfectly sums up what
being a West Ham fan is all about.
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Dicks draws on Chelsea memories
WHUFC.com
Julian Dicks hoping to add to his list of victories over Chelsea on Monday
evening
Terminator scored twice in wins over the Blues during his West Ham United
playing career
Hammers have won their previous two home games against the west London club
Julian Dicks is hoping to add to his bank of fond memories of facing Chelsea
when the Blues visit London Stadium on Monday.
West Ham United's first-team coaching assistant enjoyed a 4-1 First Division
win over Chelsea in just his seventh Hammers appearance back in May 1988,
while he was part of the side which scored a 1-0 League Cup success against
the Pensioners in October 1994.
Dicks completed a hat-trick of victories over the west London club when his
thumping header secured a 2-1 Premier League win over the Blues at Stamford
Bridge in February 1996, before his penalty helped the Hammers to a 3-2
victory at the Boleyn Ground in March 1997.
On returning to the Club in summer 2015, the Terminator saw West Ham defeat
Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League on their final visit to Upton Park, before
guiding the Hammers to an EFL Cup victory over Antonio Conte's side on their
first-ever trip to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Unsurprisingly, the four-time Hammer of the Year enjoys derby dates against
the men from SW6.
"I remember beating them 4-1 at Upton Park but the one which sticks out for
me is when we beat them 2-1 at Stamford Bridge," he recalled. "Danny
Williamson scored and then I scored a header.
"I remember getting some stick from David Mellor in the few weeks before
over the John Spencer incident, so I enjoyed scoring that goal and helping
us get the win.
"To be honest, I enjoy the derby matches more than any other, especially
under the lights. I always enjoyed facing Chelsea and Tottenham during my
playing career and, as a coach, it's no different."
While Dicks enjoyed getting one over Chelsea as a player, he knows adding to
that list of victories on Monday will be difficult, seeing as Conte's side
are seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.
"Chelsea are top of the division by a long stretch, they are a good team
with some very good players," Dicks observed. "Listen, we're going to have
to be on our game and give 100 per cent for us to have a chance of winning
this game.
"Last year, they were blaming Jose Mourinho and it probably was a factor,
but you can see they are all pulling together.
"When we played them in the EFL Cup, they brought on Diego Costa and Eden
Hazard and the game changed because they have got so much pace and bring the
ball forward so quickly."
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Cresswell ready for Moses reunion
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell ready to face former West Ham United teammate Victor Moses
Left-back first faced Chelsea wing-back in an FA Youth Cup tie when he was
just 16
No3 was turning out for Tranmere Rovers, while Moses was in action for
Crystal Palace
As he prepares for the challenge of slowing down Victor Moses, Aaron
Cresswell revealed that he has known about the Chelsea player's talents for
longer than most.
Cresswell was 16 and Moses just 15 when Tranmere Rovers travelled to
Selhurst Park to take on Crystal Palace in the FA Youth Cup fourth round in
January 2006. Despite his tender years, Moses was the star of the show,
inspiring the Eagles to a 3-1 victory, and leaving an impression on
Tranmere's young defender.
Eleven years on and, after spending last season as teammates, the pair are
set to square-off again at London Stadium on Monday night, with left-back
Cresswell set to come up directly against the Blues' flying right wing-back.
"Vic spent a year with us here and he's a great lad, and he's really kicked
on and shown what he is all about this season," he said. "Some people
questioned if he would ever fulfil his potential, but since Antonio Conte
has come in, he's taken to it and had a right go and has arguably been one
of their best players.
"Vic is a very laid-back and chilled character, but since their new manager
has come in, he's really got his head down and worked hard and it looks like
he's going to win the Premier League.
"His ability was never in question. He has fantastic talent and I remember
playing against him in the Youth Cup when he was at Crystal Palace and he
was 15 and even at that age you could see the ability that he had.
"I'm looking forward to the game because you want to play against the best
teams and the best players and Chelsea have certainly got them."
While Moses is in the form of his life, Cresswell knows Chelsea possess
quality all over the pitch, with every one of the eleven players knowing
their role precisely in Antonio Conte's favoured 3-5-2 formation.
Since moving to three centre-halves in early October, Chelsea have lost just
two of 20 matches in all competitions – at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier
League and, of course, at London Stadium in the EFL Cup.
Despite being one of only four teams to defeat the Blues this season –
Liverpool and Arsenal did so before Conte's tactical switch – Cresswell
knows West Ham need to be at their best to defeat the runaway leaders.
"Of course we know it's going to be a tough game as they are comfortably
leading the Premier League," he confirmed. "They've been fantastic under
their new manager and since they've changed formation we have seen what a
good team they really are.
"If you play 3-5-2, it certainly makes being a wing-back a
physically-demanding position to play, as you have two jobs to do at once.
Chelsea have got the personnel that fit perfectly into that formation and
they've really kicked on since they changed to that formation.
"We've played that system a few times ourselves, so we know what that
formation is all about but, regardless of that, we know it's going to be a
tough game. We beat them 2-1 earlier this season and I'd definitely take
that again, but they're a top team so we'll need to be at our very best."
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Five Talking Points – Chelsea
WHUFC.com
The major discussion points ahead of West Ham United's London derby with
Chelsea on Monday evening...
History repeating?
Chelsea have lost just FOUR of the 32 matches they have contested in Premier
League, Emirates FA Cup and EFL Cup this season – all of them in London.
Three of those defeats were suffered in the Premier League – at home to
Liverpool and away from home at Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur – while the
fourth came in the EFL Cup fourth round at London Stadium back in October.
West Ham United produced an inspired performance to overcome Antonio Conte's
team 2-1, with goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes. While
Chelsea have improved since that defeat, so have the Hammers, who have lost
just three of their last 12 Premier League matches. So, the question is, can
history repeat itself?
Forward thinking
Andy Carroll returned to the training pitch in midweek and is on course to
make his comeback after missing two Premier League matches with a groin
injury. The big No9 was in superb form before his latest injury setback,
scoring six goals in eleven Premier League appearances over the Christmas
and New Year period.
With Michail Antonio absent through suspension after being red carded at
Watford a week ago, Carroll's return comes at the vital time for Slaven
Bilic. The forward's skillset should occupy Gary Cahill and his central
defensive partners, lifting the pressure that Chelsea will undoubtedly put
on the Hammers on Monday night.
Fabregas v Lanzini
While it is of course far more complex than that, the midfield battle
between playmakers Cesc Fabregas and Manuel Lanzini will be fascinating.
Having just passed 300 Premier League appearances, Fabregas has 102 Premier
League assists to his name – second only to Ryan Giggs – and the Spaniard's
influence on Chelsea's play appears to be growing. Fabregas's passing and
movement are both exceptional and central to the Blues' lightning-quick ball
movement, which has given so many opponents nightmares this season. Lanzini
is a different player, but he too has become a vital player for his team,
creating space with his close control and elusive play, and chances with his
incisive passing. Whoever comes out on top between Fabregas and Lanzini may
decide Monday's game in their team's favour.
Resurgent Moses
Slaven Bilic told his pre-match press conference that Dimitri Payet
described Victor Moses as West Ham United's 'best player' during the
Nigerian's loan spell in east London last season. For whatever reason, Moses
did not discover his top form in Claret and Blue, but he has certainly done
so with his parent club this season.
Athletic, strong and skilful, Moses has established himself as Chelsea's
first-choice right wing-back, earning a new long-term contract in the past
week. The promise that he showed during his formative years at Crystal
Palace and, in patches, in a West Ham shirt a year ago, is finally and
spectacularly being fulfilled.
Early issues
West Ham United will need to concentrate for the entire 90 minutes when they
face a formidable Chelsea team on Monday. That much would have been true had
the Hammers not conceded in the opening 12 minutes in each of their last
three Premier League fixtures. Early goals have put Slaven Bilic's team on
the back foot against Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Watford. While
West Ham have fought back to take five points from those matches, it is a
habit the manager will want his team to shake if they are to continue their
recent run of good form.
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Bilic hails Lanzini ability
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic hails ability of West Ham United's No10 Manuel Lanzini
Manager says the Argentine is making his teammates better players
Bilic impressed by way 24-year-old has taken on a more influential role in
recent matches
Slaven Bilic says Manuel Lanzini possesses the ability to make every other
West Ham United player perform to a higher level.
Lanzini has been in outstanding form since taking his place as the Hammers'
central playmaker following the departure of Dimitri Payet, making the No10
position behind the striker his own in recent weeks. Manager Bilic says the
24-year-old has shown great maturity to overcome the disappointment of
missing the 2016 Rio Olympic Games through a knee injury to become a vital
member of his side.
The five goals and two assists Lanzini has achieved bely his overall
contribution to the team. His outstanding technique and dribbling, penchant
for wriggling out of tight situations and ability to turn defence into
attack and create space for others are all qualities which Bilic hailed when
asked about the South American's contribution.
Next up for Lanzini and West Ham is the challenge of overcoming runaway
Premier League leaders Chelsea at London Stadium on Monday evening, but the
boss is confident his diminutive creator will not be overawed by facing the
Blues.
"When your best players improve, then you are improving as a team," Bilic
observed. "They are your best players not only because of their individual
skills, but because they are making all the other players around them better
– and that's what Manu means to us.
"He started the season with a big injury and a big disappointment that he
couldn't go to play for Argentina at the Olympic Games, then he needed a bit
of time to get into good shape and all that, and the team helped him.
"Of course he is now also helping the team and he's a top player who is
basically making all the players around him feel more comfortable on the
ball, on the pitch, playing with more confidence, knowing if they're in
trouble they can pass to him and he will always make that space available
for them. That is crucial.
"I'm a big fan of him. He's a very young player with his ups and downs and
he has to stay focussed and totally in his game and in football he can
achieve great things."
*Tickets for Monday's sold-out visit of Antonio Conte's Chelsea to London
Stadium are available now here via the Ticket Exchange.
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West Ham United v Chelsea
MON, 06 MAR 2017
PREMIER LEAGUE
20:00
Venue: London Stadium
BBC.co.uk
TEAM NEWS
West Ham are optimistic that striker Andy Carroll, who has been out for a
month with a groin injury, will be fit to make his comeback on Monday.
However, winger Michail Antonio serves a one-game ban.
Chelsea winger Eden Hazard is expected to be available despite suffering a
knock in training.
They could name the same side which began the 3-1 win against Swansea, with
Cesc Fabregas again likely to be preferred to Nemanja Matic.
RADIO 5 LIVE COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
John Murray: "In all competitions this season, Chelsea have lost only four
matches. They've all been played in London. And one of them was here, on one
of West Ham's best nights yet at their London Stadium, in the EFL Cup back
in October.
"Antonio Conte did not pick his strongest possible team for that match,
indeed perhaps only four of that side will be starting this one. But he will
surely be forearmed after experiencing first hand what West Ham can be
capable of on their day.
"West Ham's nine Premier League wins this season have all come against clubs
who were in the bottom half of the table coming into this round of matches.
"To beat Chelsea again, particularly without the suspended Michail Antonio -
now one of their most important players - would be the achievement of their
season so far."
Twitter: @bbcjohnmurray
Listen to live coverage of West Ham v Chelsea on BBC Radio 5 live, with
commentary from John Murray and Phil Neville.
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic on the form of ex-Hammers loanee Victor Moses:
"His potential, his characteristics, his strength, were always amazing. His
pace, quality on the ball and stamina is basically top, top-class.
"Sometimes you have to push him to do it day in, day out, and now he is
doing it. His place was anything but guaranteed at the beginning of the
season but he proved himself.
"I remember once I spoke to [Dimitri] Payet during last season. Payet said
that, even including himself, Victor is the best player that we have at West
Ham."
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte on speculation linking him with a return to
Italian football: "My situation is very clear. I have a contract with
Chelsea. We are trying to do something important with the club, for the
present, for the future.
"Every coach, when you start work with a new club, you hope to stay many,
many years, because it means you are working very well.
"The only problem for me this season is the family is missing me. My family
stay in Italy and I'm working, I'm working for the future to try to bring
them here and to stay together."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
West Ham's poor start to the season seems a distant memory now but Chelsea
just keep finding a way to win games.
That is why I would back the Blues to get a win at the London Stadium and
also why I don't see anyone catching Antonio Conte's side at the top of the
table.
Prediction: 0-2
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have won their last two league and cup home games against Chelsea,
both by 2-1 scorelines.
The Hammers' victory in this fixture last season is their only win in the
last eight Premier League meetings (D2, L5).
West Ham United
The Hammers could draw three successive Premier League games for the first
time since a run of four draws between March and April 2016.
Andy Carroll, who has scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea,
is one short of 50 Premier League goals.
Manuel Lanzini has scored seven times in 11 Premier League London derbies -
compared to just four goals in 38 games against sides from outside the
capital.
Chelsea
Chelsea have kept two clean sheets in their last eight league games - having
recorded 10 shut-outs in the previous 12 top flight matches.
Antonio Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier
League, at Arsenal and Tottenham, but won at Crystal Palace.
Diego Costa has scored in 54% of his Premier League appearances, a higher
proportion than any other player to feature in at least 20 matches.
Costa needs two goals to reach 50 Premier League goals, and could become the
fifth quickest player to reach that mark after Andrew Cole (65 games), Alan
Shearer (66), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68) and Fernando Torres (72).
Pedro has been directly involved in 10 goals in his last nine games in all
competitions, scoring seven and setting up three.
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-1 Probability of draw: 23%
Probability of home win: 24% Probability of away win: 53%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football
matches.
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Robert Snodgrass says court warrant is a 'misunderstanding'
Last Updated: 05/03/17 11:25pm
SSN
West Ham's Robert Snodgrass has played down reports of a warrant being
issued in respect of his failure to attend court, saying it is simply 'a
misunderstanding'.
Last week a warrant was issued for the Scotland international after he
failed to attend a court trial having been charged with driving a car while
a baby was being held by a passenger. Snodgrass is alleged to have driven on
Duke Street, Glasgow, on 17 April 2016 with too many people in the vehicle
to fit a baby seat in. But the issue is not expected to affect his or West
Ham's preparations for the Sky Live match wth Chelsea on Monday night.
Snodgrass said: "It was just a misunderstanding and I didn't realise I had
to be present in court. It's not a big issue and will be resolved in due
course."
The former Hull winger admitted he felt right at home on West Ham's recent
trip to Dubai - because the weather was as bad as in his native Scotland. He
said. "It was raining a lot, and cold. It felt pretty much like I was back
home in Glasgow. "So the lads were gutted. They had some swimming shorts for
sitting around the pool after training, but there was none of that.
Absolutely none. "Some of the lads had jackets and hats on, it was
unbelievable - something I had never seen in Dubai before. I still had to
use factor 50, mind. "But it was good. We probably trained harder over there
than we did here. Because that was one thing the manager stressed, that we
have to work harder out there. "The only disappointing thing was that we
thought it was going to be hot-weather training, but it was totally
different."
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Jose Fonte opens up to Graeme Souness about his transfer from Southampton to
West Ham
Last Updated: 05/03/17 8:52pm
SSN
Ahead of a Monday Night Football clash with Chelsea, Jose Fonte has opened
up to Graeme Souness about his transfer from Southampton to West Ham. Fonte
sealed an £8m move to the Hammers in January but believes he was unfairly
criticised for his departure. Here, the former Southampton captain speaks
candidly to ex-Saints manager Souness on why he decided to leave St Mary's
and what went on behind the scenes in a complicated transfer affair…
Graeme Souness: Jose, why West Ham?
Jose Fonte: In the summer, there were a few offers, including West Ham. But
in January they came back in and it was a no brainer for me because of the
size of the club and the move to the Olympic Stadium. The passionate fans
they have and also the ambition of the manager and the chairman. It was an
easy descion to choose West Ham. London is also closer to my wife's side of
the family - so provided her more help to raise the kids. Everything made
sense and I'm extremely happy.
GS: It looks exciting times at West Ham. They look to have a chance to
become a big club.
JF: They didn't have the easiest of starts but it's coming along really
nicely now. Obviously with the Dimitri Payet situation - but the transfer
window is over now and we got Robert Snodgrass, who is a great player. I
look around the dressing room and I see a lot of talent and a great manager.
I see a lot of team spirit and a lot of possibilities - not only for this
year but also for next season. We're in great shape for the future - it's an
exciting time.
GS: Let's talk about the London Stadium. It's the same size pitch, same
players, same ball - but what do the players say about the early form at the
stadium?
JF: When things don't go well, you try to find any kind of excuse. What we
have to get in our head is that it's the same for both teams. You don't want
to play in League One and League Two pitches - you want to play on a massive
pitch in the Olympic Stadium with beautiful grass. That's where you're going
to express yourself in good conditions. For me, it's a question of 'get on
with it' and accept it. Come up with a gameplan, with a solution and that's
what we've been trying to do. It's a big change from the old ground but we
are growing as a club. We know where we want to go and want we want to
become a big club - we can't have excuses about the stadium. It's a great
stadium. When we are playing well, it's fantastic.
GS: You had a great European Championships and came back to Southampton -
what happened next?
JF: I spoke to the club and said there could be possibilities [to move] and
I would like the club to consider it.
GS: Seven years with the club shows you were a good servant. Did the club
not get that? If someone is coming to you offering a better deal, then
Southampton had to understand that you was in demand. I think you can't have
enough experienced players in the dressing room - you won't have a
successful team if you don't have people like yourself, good seasoned pros
that put the lesser likes in the dressing room in their place before it
becomes a problem.
JF: I appreciate what the club had done for me since day one but we all have
to take care of our families. There were offers that came in that would take
care of my family in ways that Southampton weren't willing to. It's a
difficult situation. I arrived in the Premier League late at 29 years old -
you still have to live 50 years after football. You do your best for
yourself and your family. You've got to fight for what you believe. I
respected the club, but they weren't willing to find an agreement and reach
a compromise.
GS: Is it harsh if the crowd give you a bad reception?
JF: I understand. But they don't know all the facts. What they can't forget
is the seven seasons and all the success we had together. That's the main
thing we should remember and relish. It's a disappointing ending with the
things said about me and the situation - which was not true. It was
disappointing to see that.
GS: The club want to portray you as a bad guy - that's the reality. You're
the one that wanted to leave - you're the one that wanted to make all the
demands. That's how it appears to someone who doesn't understand the game.
Supporters out there will say Jose left us in the lurch as we lost Virgil
[van Dijk] to injury and we were short in the cup final. But your conscience
is completely clear of it?
JF: It's completely clear. When I see all over the news that I submitted a
transfer request to leave the club - that's disappointing. That never
happened. There was an interview from the club; from a press conference that
I demanded to leave, which then the press took it as a transfer request and
I wonder where is it?
As I said before, in the summer there were possibilities of leaving - that's
normal, everyone fights for their own interests to get the best possible
outcome for yourself. To say that I wrote an official transfer request to
the club, that's a lie. And also that I refused to train and I wasn't being
a good captain? That's a complete lie. I've always given my best to that
club. That's the main thing the fans should know. My conscious is very
clear.
GS: Do you think you've been unfairly criticised in the manner of how you
left Southampton?
JF: No doubt. You need to know all the facts. It's tough to see in the press
you've put in a transfer request, which I didn't. I never wrote a letter to
the manager or the club saying I want to leave because even when that came
out in the beginning of January I didn't have a club to go to, so why would
I put in a transfer request?
It was tough to see that and to hear people saying bad stuff about you when
it's a lie. But this is football - you learn how to deal with things like
this. At least I have the opportunity to put it right.
GS: What do you want to say to the Southampton supporters that think you
forced your way out of there? I've managed the club and lived there for 12
years - it's a fabulous area to live in - it must have been a wrench. What
is your message?
JF: The real fans know I've given everything for the club. They know
everytime I step on the pitch and put on the shirt, I give blood, sweat and
tears. I've played with broken toes, broken ribs. I've done all I could to
help the team go from League One to the Premier League.
All I want them to know is that what they see in the press about me putting
in a transfer request and I refused to train, that's all lies. I've never
rejected to train or play. I want to play every game and every minute. I was
a good professional as the manager said in the press. It's hard to see when
people are saying I'm a bad egg or an apple.
GS: Where was that coming from?
JF: I saw some things in the press that people had heard I was not being a
good captain. That's very disappointing.
GS: Football is a small world and I hear a lot, especially being in the
media and I've heard you were a good captain.
JF: It's something I give importance to. You have to be an example. I was in
a difficult situation but considering things since the summer I think I
behaved in a good way. It wasn't the ending everyone wanted but it happened,
so we have to move on.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Chelsea preview: Blues travel east for spicy London derby
Last Updated: 05/03/17 6:09pm
SSN
Premier League title favourites Chelsea travel east to take on West Ham
United in what should be a spicy London derby on Monday Night Football.
Only four teams in Premier League history have had more points at this stage
of a season than Chelsea's 63 points. The only team with 63 or more points
after 26 games not to go on to win the title was Arsenal in 2007/08.
Chelsea have won 17 of 19 Premier League games against teams outside top-six
this season but have lost their last two away games against West Ham.
One of those defeats came earlier in the season when the Hammers knocked
Chelsea out of the EFL Cup.
Team news
Andy Carroll is set to replace Michail Antonio in the West Ham squad.
Striker Carroll is fit after missing the last two games with a groin injury
but winger Antonio is suspended following his red card at Watford last
weekend.
Diafra Sakho (back) and Angelo Ogbonna (knee) are the only injury absentees.
Eden Hazard is expected to be fit for Chelsea despite a knock.
Hazard was on the receiving end of a kick in training, but head coach
Antonio Conte expects the Belgium playmaker to be available at the London
Stadium.
Chelsea, leaders by 10 points entering into this weekend's fixtures, have no
other injury concerns.
Ways to watch
Coverage of Monday Night Football starts at 7pm live on Sky Sports 1 with
presenter David Jones joined by Jamie Carragher and special guest Frank
Lampard and you can also watch all the action in UHD via Sky Q.
Match stats
This is the first league meeting between the sides at the London Stadium -
the Hammers won just two of their last 10 Premier League games against
Chelsea at Upton Park (D1 L7).
Chelsea have lost only two of their last 21 Premier League games against
West Ham United (W15 D4).
However, the Hammers eliminated Chelsea from the EFL Cup at the fourth round
stage this season; winning 2-1 at the London Stadium.
Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier League,
suffering defeat by Arsenal in September and Tottenham in January, while
beating Crystal Palace in the other game.
Carroll has scored five goals in his last three home London derbies in the
Premier League.
Carroll is one goal away from his 50th strike in the Premier League and has
scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea.
Cesc Fabregas recorded his 102nd Premier League assist in what was his 300th
Premier League game last weekend. He needs one more to move outright second
ahead of Frank Lampard (also 102).
Fabregas has already matched his total of assists from last season (seven)
and assisted twice in last Premier League game against West Ham in March
2016.
Manuel Lanzini has scored in seven of his 11 Premier League London derby
appearances (seven goals). He's scored four goals in 38 Premier League
appearances against non-London sides.
The suspended Antonio has been involved in more Premier League goals than
any other West Ham player this season (11).
Diego Costa has scored 48 goals in 78 Premier League appearances. Should he
score two or more goals in this game, he'll be the fifth quickest to 50
goals in the competition after Andrew Cole (65 apps), Alan Shearer (66
apps), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68 apps) and Fernando Torres (72 apps).
Merson's prediction
Chelsea look like a well-oiled machine at the moment which is showing now
signs of any faults. They did lose to West Ham at the London Stadium in the
EFL Cup earlier in the season, but I do not expect a repeat performance. I
expect Chelsea to win this game. West Ham have struggled in front of their
own fans and are a better side away from home.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 (11/1 with Sky Bet)
Betting
Chelsea are just 8/13 with Sky Bet to take another crucial step towards the
Premier League title by beating West Ham, who are 17/4 to upset their rivals
with a win and 3/1 to hold out for a draw.
Conte's men headed into the weekend as 1/8 shots to lift the trophy while
their hosts are 8/11 to secure a top-half finish. Costa heads the first
goalscorer betting at 100/30 with Andy Carroll considered the hosts' main
threat at 15/2, while the strike duo are 9/2 both to find the net.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea and West Ham fans told to behave themselves by Antonio Conte after
trouble at EFL Cup meeting
The Blues return to the London Stadium on Monday and their manager is
praying for no repeat of the ugly scenes that marred October visit
The Mirror
BYADRIAN KAJUMBA
22:30, 5 MAR 2017
Antonio Conte has urged both sets of supporters to be on their best
behaviour at the London Stadium on Monday night, insisting "the country
deserves this."
Chelsea 's EFL Cup visit to West Ham in October was marred by ugly scenes
and fan clashes towards the end of the home side's 2-1 win. Ahead of the
champions-elect's visit to the Hammers in the Premier League, Blues boss
Conte said: "Last time wasn't good. "I hope in this game our fans, the West
Ham fans, enjoy totally the game and find the right atmosphere. "In England,
it's very strange for me to talk about this: Usually in every game you find
the right atmosphere. The last one against West Ham there was an exception.
"But I hope to find a good atmosphere in the stadium. I think the players,
the club, the country deserves this." Conte also admitted it's hard not
being in the Champions League this season and being forced to watch on from
the outside. That was one big reason behind his recent trip to Manchester to
take in City's epic 5-3 win against Monaco in the first leg of a last-16
tie. The former Juventus coach said: "Yes, it hurts to watch games on the
television with Chelsea not involved. "I watched the Manchester City game
against Monaco live, because I wanted to breathe it in, the right
atmosphere, and feel this type of game. "In the future, I hope to sit and
watch games live," said the Italian, who also laughed when asked if he was
also there to run the rule over some of Monaco's highly-rated players.
Chelsea are certain to return to UEFA's elite club competition next season,
and Conte said: "Yes, yes, I miss being in the Champions League. For me and
my players, yes. The Champions League must be an appointment for us every
year. It must be our house. "For this reason, we are putting our strength
into playing in the Champions League next season. It's a great competition
for every single player, club and manager, and we want to stay there and try
to fight to win it. "We started our season trying to fight until the end to
win the title, and to try to fight until the end to be in the right position
to go into next season's Champions League. This was our target. "It wasn't
easy to start the season and know six strong teams fight for the title and
Champions League.
"Don't forget, in this six teams, two won't play in the Champions League
next season. They have to go into the Europa League, which is a bit
different to the Champions League. "But now this league is very, very
difficult. To win the title and also find a place to play the Champions
League is not easy."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham skipper Mark Noble is the positive side of player power, says boss
Slaven Bilic
The Hammers' captain does much more than wear the armband for his boyhood
club and makes life easier for the manager
The Mirror
BYSTEVE STAMMERS
22:30, 4 MAR 2017
Slaven Bilic is only too willing to confirm there is player power at West
Ham . But rather than the contentious kind which was alleged to have played
such a significant part in the departure of Claudio Ranieri from champions
Leicester less than a year after delivering their shock title triumph, the
West Ham manager welcomes the influence imposed on his squad by Mark Noble .
Noble is captain of the club, but he is more than a token leader who wears
an armband, leads the team out of the tunnel and shakes hand with the
opposition at the toss-up. He is Bilic's man in the dressing room — the one
Bilic trusts to revive morale when results have reflected sporadic success
in the teething problems evident since the relocation to the London Stadium.
"He has been very, very important for me," said Bilic, who is looking for a
repeat of October's home EFL Cup win over Chelsea when the sides meet at the
London Stadium again in the Premier League on Monday night. "You need the
core if your team to be English or British but the captain is the most
important. I can only spend a certain amount of time with the players but
not always in the dressing room where Mark is. "It is crucial to have a
captain like him. I am lucky with Mark." Noble – apart from loan spells at
Hull and Ipswich during his fledgling years – has been a permanent fixture
at West Ham. To Bilic, that has produced a family-like tie that means Noble
feels setbacks more than anyone at the club. "I hope every players hurts
personally when things go wrong," said Bilic. "In Mark's case, it is
big-time personal." Noble, 29, will probably never realise his dream of
representing his country at full international level. But Bilic said: "He
should have been in the Euro 2016 squad. "But now we have a new England
manager. If Mark continues to play well, he should have a great chance of
being picked."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, March 6
Sunday, March 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th March 2017
Slaven: This season has made us all stronger
WHUFC.com
Asked this week to identify the turning point in a season that has seen West
Ham United bounce back from early troubles to climb into the top half of the
Premier League table, Slaven Bilic's answer was clear. There hasn't been
one. "It isn't a turning point that has made the difference," said the
Hammers boss. "We can talk about the game against Crystal Palace away in
October, we can talk about the two wins we had at home against Burnley and
Hull in the space of three days - two 1-0 wins, two penalties. "We can talk
about that period when we had four big games against Tottenham, Manchester
United, Arsenal and Liverpool, and got two points away at United and
Liverpool. "But the reason we have turned things around is that we didn't
stop believing. "We continued to fight and knew that the only way that we
were going to get out was, basically, by sticking together and working hard.
And that is the key."
As he prepares to take his team into Monday night's mouth-watering London
derby against Premier League leaders Chelsea - for which tickets are still
available on the Ticket Exchange - Bilic is understandably proud of the
spirit and togetherness that has underpinned a run of six wins and three
draws in the last 12 league matches. And the Croatian, who is now
approaching his 12th year in management, admitted that he and his players
are stronger for the experience of the campaign so far. Nor would he swap
the ups and downs of this season for a less eventful ride. "I consider this
season as a great one," he said. "For me individually, and for the team, and
for the club, because this season we experienced some negative things, some
positive things, but mainly a lot of new things.
"I am 48 now. I was manager of my country and I was manager of Besiktas in
Turkey where the pressure is basically bigger than here. "So I got used to
the job a little bit. But was it hard? Yes. It's still hard. Of course I
wasn't enjoying the defeats but sometimes you have to sacrifice something to
get something. "They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
"It's great because now I can see it as a great experience. For me
personally, for the players, and for the club.
"I wouldn't change it. I would change September and October. But after that,
when you've made it and you get out of that, the experience is priceless and
you benefit from it in the future. "I wouldn't swap when I was under
pressure or the team was under pressure. I wouldn't swap it for a steady
season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dicks - The boys have pulled together
WHUFC.com
Julian Dicks says everyone at West Ham United is working towards the same
goal
Coaching assistant believes team spirit has improved since departure of
Dimitri Payet
Fans' favourite has also been pleased for manager and long-time friend
Slaven Bilic
Julian Dicks says everyone at West Ham United is working towards the same
goal ahead of Monday's visit of Premier League leaders Chelsea. The Blues
visit London Stadium well clear at the top of the table, having lost just
four matches in all competitions all season long. However, the Hammers are
also in their best form of the campaign at present, having lost just three
of their last 12 league matches to climb to the relative comfort of ninth.
Coaching assistant Dicks puts West Ham's improvement down to the removal of
distractions and the squad's willingness to work hard for each other every
time they take to the pitch. "We've had some good results," said the fans'
favourite. "Obviously, things weren't so good when Dimi [Payet] was here,
because everything was focused on him, but now he's gone and we seem to have
a better team spirit, to be honest. The boys have pulled together and
results have shown that. "You have to stick together because nobody is
bigger than the Club. Yes, Dimi was a good player and, on his day, we miss
him, but it isn't about one player, but about the squad and we've come
through that period at the moment and results are good. "The boys are
grinding out results as well. We went 1-0 down at Watford and came back and
really dominated the game so, yes, things are good at the moment. "We've
always been a good team but a lack of work-rate was costing us in some
games. We've got good players and they have been brought closer together.
You can see that by the way they scrap for each other on the pitch and the
way they work incredibly hard in training. "They've all pulled together and
the results have been good over the last two or three months."
Dicks is also pleased for manager, former teammate and long-time friend
Slaven Bilic, who has silenced any doubters with his ability to come through
a challenging period with flying colours. "To be a manager is a difficult
position to be in became, when things are going well, the players get the
credit but, when things are going wrong, the manager gets the stick," Dicks
observed. "I've known Slav a long, long time and sometimes you have to bite
your lip when people are saying things about you when they don't know the
reasons why. "We talked and discussed the reasons why he had to make [the
Payet situation] public, and one of those was for him, and the other was for
the sake of the other players as well. "When it came out about Dimi, it
doesn't matter who you are, if you disrespect the Club, the fans are not
going to like it. That's the way it is. A few players have done it and I'm
sure there will be a few more in the future. "The fans are fantastic and it
was nice to hear them singing Slav's name, not just once or twice but for
the whole 90 minutes. It must give him a buzz, as well."
*Don't miss part two of our exclusive chat with Julian Dicks on Sunday
afternoon, when the Terminator discusses his passion for London derbies with
Chelsea.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rice signs new deal until 2020
WHUFC.com
Defender Declan Rice has signed a new three-and-a-half-year deal with West
Ham United
Rice has been in brilliant form this season, captaining the U23s and
appearing on the bench for the first team on Boxing Day
The 18-year-old said it's an "amazing feeling" to have signed his new deal
Defender Declan Rice has pledged his long-term future to West Ham United,
signing a new contract to keep him at the club until 2020. The 18-year-old
is captain of the PL2 side and has enjoyed a brilliant season under the
guidance of Terry Westley and Liam Manning. Rice was also on the bench for
Slaven Bilic's first team in the Boxing Day win at Swansea City and said he
is pleased to have been rewarded with a new 3-and-a-half-year deal. "I'm
delighted to have been rewarded with a new contract," said Rice. "It has
been an amazing season for me, I think I've kicked on and progressed. "I'm
happy now that the contract has been signed and I can just focus on trying
to improve even more and hopefully get a game for the first team before the
end of the season. "After the season I've had, being on the bench for the
first team and captaining the U23s in every game, it's been amazing. I've
trained with the first team quite a bit as well and that makes me want to
kick on even more."
Rice joined West Ham from Chelsea as a youngster and quickly became one of
the hottest prospects at the Academy of Football. He made his U18s debut in
2014 and was named the Dylan Tombides Academy Player of the Year at the end
of the following season. His development has continued this season after
being named as U23s captain at the start of the campaign. Rice has also
experienced playing on the international stage - he was selected for the
Republic of Ireland U21s at the age of just 17 after impressing for the
U19s. "I got my first call up for the U21s a couple of months ago and that
was a great experience to be with a different set of lads and learn from
coaches who have a different style," Rice continued. "We've got the Euros
with the U19s coming up next month and I haven't been with them in a while
so I cannot wait to play with them again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini - I like this pressure
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini is relishing the extra responsibility of being West Ham
United's playmaker
No10 has assumed a more influential role since the departure of Dimitri
Payet
Argentine tells Official Programme the Hammers are in good form ahead of
visit of Chelsea
Manuel Lanzini welcomes the extra responsibility on him to be West Ham
United's playmaker since the departure of Dimitri Payet. While some players
may have withered under the added pressue, Lanzini has relished the
opportunity to reprise a role he filled as a youngster with River Plate.
There, his outstanding technical ability, elusive dribbling, perceptive
passing, accurate shooting and winning mentality brought him 13 goals and 14
assists in 89 first-team appearances - the majority of which he made before
his 20th birthday - and an Argentine Primera Division Final Tournament title
in May 2014. For the 24-year-old, being relied upon is something to be proud
of, rather than something to be intimidated by, and he is hoping to rise to
the challenge again when Premier League leaders Chelsea visit London Stadium
on Monday evening. "I like this pressure," he told Monday's Official
Programme for the visit of the Blues. "I like to take the ball and play for
the team and I need this for my personality. "I need the pressure and I need
to feel that the team is relying on me. This is important for me."
With Lanzini at the hub of the majority of good things about West Ham
United's attacking play over the last three months, the team has lost just
three of their last 12 Premier League matches, rising from the edge of the
relegation zone into the top half of the table. The South American himself
netted a superb third in the 3-0 home win over Crystal Palace, before
scoring a long-range special in the 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion at
London Stadium. Add two assists in the 3-1 victory at Middlesbrough in
between and it is easy to see why the No10 has become such an integral part
of Bilic's starting XI. "The team is good and we're playing good football at
the moment and this is important," he confirmed."
Elsewhere in Monday's issue, Ian 'Moose' Abrahams chats to West
Ham-supporting Emirates FA Cup giant-killers Danny and Nicky Cowley of
Lincoln City and Jamie Collins of Sutton United, while Evening Standard
columnist Ken Dyer talks to Lincoln's goalkeeper coach and former Hammers
stopper Jimmy Walker. Steve Blowers hears from ex-West Ham and Chelsea
midfielder Alan Dickens in They Wore the Claret & Blue, while there is an
educational interview with East Ham-born University Challenge semi-finalist
Bobby Seagull in Final Whistle. Joint-Chairman David Gold, manager Slaven
Bilic and captain Mark Noble all pen exclusive columns, while there is
plenty of information about Antonio Conte's visitors. With the very latest
from the Club's Premier League 2, Academy and Ladies teams, including
Student of the Game Alfie Lewis, plus updates from around London Stadium and
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Monday's Official Programme is a must-read for
any fan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says this season has provided 'priceless' experience for
himself and West Ham
Last Updated: 03/03/17 11:22pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic admits West Ham's turbulent season has been one of the toughest
of his career, but says he would not swap it for a less exciting one. The
Hammers have had to deal with moving to the London Stadium, fan unrest,
crowd trouble, an early exit from the Europa League, and the saga of Dimitri
Payet's move to Marseille. But the Hammers have emerged from that tricky
period and have climbed into the top half ahead of Monday's visit from
leaders Chelsea, live on Sky Sports 1. And Bilic, who has also managed in
Russia and Turkey as well as his national team, Croatia, says he and his
players are stronger for the experience.
Bilic said: "I consider this season as a great one for me individually, and
for the team, and for the club, because this season we experienced a lot of
negatives, a lot of positive things, but mainly a lot of new things. "I was
manager of my country and I was manager of Besiktas in Turkey, where the
pressure is basically bigger than here. "So, I got used to the job a little
bit. But was it hard? Yes. It's still hard. But you know that saying: 'What
doesn't kill you, makes you stronger'? "It's great because now it's a great
experience. For me personally, for every player, for the team and for the
club. "We don't want to start next season like we started this one. Was I
enjoying September? No, of course I wasn't enjoying September. Or October.
"But I wouldn't change it. I would change September and October. But, after
that, when you've made it and you get out of that, the experience is
priceless. "I wouldn't swap when I was under pressure or the team was under
pressure. I wouldn't swap it for a steady season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"F*** him!" - West Ham fan Ray Winstone sends message to Dimitri Payet at
premiere of Iron Men movie
Funnily enough, the Hollywood Hammer is no longer a fan of the Frenchman
The Mirror
BYFREDDIE HARDING
15:53, 4 MAR 2017
When Dimitri Payet decided to turn his back on the West Ham fans that adored
him so much, and force through a move back to Marseille, there were few men
he would have wanted to run into less than Ray Winstone . When Raymondo's
not playing the intimidating villain on the big screen, or telling us the
latest live betting odds, he's almost definitely watching his beloved
Hammers. And given that he grew up less than a mile from the Boleyn Ground,
supporting the Hammers all his life, it's no surprise to hear what he though
of the Frenchman's lack of loyalty. Speaking exclusively to Mirror Football
at the premiere of 'Iron Men', Ray said: "It just shows how easily
footballers can be upset. "When you box, you are one, you haven't got to
rely on anyone else, but when someone in the dressing room is upsetting
everyone else, well, the proof's in the pudding. "So, f*** him, he's gone."
Following Payet's departure, Slaven Bilic's side seemed to have turned a
corner, and after a tough start in their new home they now sit in ninth
ahead of Chelsea's visit to the London Stadium on Monday. And big Ray
believes the squad have started to play for each other now that last
season's Hammer of the year is back at Marseille. "I think this squad are
starting to knit together. We got bashed up against Man City, but we bounced
back. "We've got Chelsea on Monday, so let's see how we do."
Winstone featured heavily in the documentary about the Hammers' move from
Upton Park to Stratford's London Stadium, that followed what it meant to the
fans to leave the old ground behind. But if he had the opportunity to star
in a movie as one of the West Ham first team, there's only one man he could
see himself playing. "He's a bit shorter than me, but Mark Noble, I suppose.
"He's been the epitome of what West Ham's about and he's been there for a
long, long while. "I couldn't play the Geordie (Andy Carroll) because I
can't do the accent!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Asked this week to identify the turning point in a season that has seen West
Ham United bounce back from early troubles to climb into the top half of the
Premier League table, Slaven Bilic's answer was clear. There hasn't been
one. "It isn't a turning point that has made the difference," said the
Hammers boss. "We can talk about the game against Crystal Palace away in
October, we can talk about the two wins we had at home against Burnley and
Hull in the space of three days - two 1-0 wins, two penalties. "We can talk
about that period when we had four big games against Tottenham, Manchester
United, Arsenal and Liverpool, and got two points away at United and
Liverpool. "But the reason we have turned things around is that we didn't
stop believing. "We continued to fight and knew that the only way that we
were going to get out was, basically, by sticking together and working hard.
And that is the key."
As he prepares to take his team into Monday night's mouth-watering London
derby against Premier League leaders Chelsea - for which tickets are still
available on the Ticket Exchange - Bilic is understandably proud of the
spirit and togetherness that has underpinned a run of six wins and three
draws in the last 12 league matches. And the Croatian, who is now
approaching his 12th year in management, admitted that he and his players
are stronger for the experience of the campaign so far. Nor would he swap
the ups and downs of this season for a less eventful ride. "I consider this
season as a great one," he said. "For me individually, and for the team, and
for the club, because this season we experienced some negative things, some
positive things, but mainly a lot of new things.
"I am 48 now. I was manager of my country and I was manager of Besiktas in
Turkey where the pressure is basically bigger than here. "So I got used to
the job a little bit. But was it hard? Yes. It's still hard. Of course I
wasn't enjoying the defeats but sometimes you have to sacrifice something to
get something. "They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
"It's great because now I can see it as a great experience. For me
personally, for the players, and for the club.
"I wouldn't change it. I would change September and October. But after that,
when you've made it and you get out of that, the experience is priceless and
you benefit from it in the future. "I wouldn't swap when I was under
pressure or the team was under pressure. I wouldn't swap it for a steady
season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dicks - The boys have pulled together
WHUFC.com
Julian Dicks says everyone at West Ham United is working towards the same
goal
Coaching assistant believes team spirit has improved since departure of
Dimitri Payet
Fans' favourite has also been pleased for manager and long-time friend
Slaven Bilic
Julian Dicks says everyone at West Ham United is working towards the same
goal ahead of Monday's visit of Premier League leaders Chelsea. The Blues
visit London Stadium well clear at the top of the table, having lost just
four matches in all competitions all season long. However, the Hammers are
also in their best form of the campaign at present, having lost just three
of their last 12 league matches to climb to the relative comfort of ninth.
Coaching assistant Dicks puts West Ham's improvement down to the removal of
distractions and the squad's willingness to work hard for each other every
time they take to the pitch. "We've had some good results," said the fans'
favourite. "Obviously, things weren't so good when Dimi [Payet] was here,
because everything was focused on him, but now he's gone and we seem to have
a better team spirit, to be honest. The boys have pulled together and
results have shown that. "You have to stick together because nobody is
bigger than the Club. Yes, Dimi was a good player and, on his day, we miss
him, but it isn't about one player, but about the squad and we've come
through that period at the moment and results are good. "The boys are
grinding out results as well. We went 1-0 down at Watford and came back and
really dominated the game so, yes, things are good at the moment. "We've
always been a good team but a lack of work-rate was costing us in some
games. We've got good players and they have been brought closer together.
You can see that by the way they scrap for each other on the pitch and the
way they work incredibly hard in training. "They've all pulled together and
the results have been good over the last two or three months."
Dicks is also pleased for manager, former teammate and long-time friend
Slaven Bilic, who has silenced any doubters with his ability to come through
a challenging period with flying colours. "To be a manager is a difficult
position to be in became, when things are going well, the players get the
credit but, when things are going wrong, the manager gets the stick," Dicks
observed. "I've known Slav a long, long time and sometimes you have to bite
your lip when people are saying things about you when they don't know the
reasons why. "We talked and discussed the reasons why he had to make [the
Payet situation] public, and one of those was for him, and the other was for
the sake of the other players as well. "When it came out about Dimi, it
doesn't matter who you are, if you disrespect the Club, the fans are not
going to like it. That's the way it is. A few players have done it and I'm
sure there will be a few more in the future. "The fans are fantastic and it
was nice to hear them singing Slav's name, not just once or twice but for
the whole 90 minutes. It must give him a buzz, as well."
*Don't miss part two of our exclusive chat with Julian Dicks on Sunday
afternoon, when the Terminator discusses his passion for London derbies with
Chelsea.
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Rice signs new deal until 2020
WHUFC.com
Defender Declan Rice has signed a new three-and-a-half-year deal with West
Ham United
Rice has been in brilliant form this season, captaining the U23s and
appearing on the bench for the first team on Boxing Day
The 18-year-old said it's an "amazing feeling" to have signed his new deal
Defender Declan Rice has pledged his long-term future to West Ham United,
signing a new contract to keep him at the club until 2020. The 18-year-old
is captain of the PL2 side and has enjoyed a brilliant season under the
guidance of Terry Westley and Liam Manning. Rice was also on the bench for
Slaven Bilic's first team in the Boxing Day win at Swansea City and said he
is pleased to have been rewarded with a new 3-and-a-half-year deal. "I'm
delighted to have been rewarded with a new contract," said Rice. "It has
been an amazing season for me, I think I've kicked on and progressed. "I'm
happy now that the contract has been signed and I can just focus on trying
to improve even more and hopefully get a game for the first team before the
end of the season. "After the season I've had, being on the bench for the
first team and captaining the U23s in every game, it's been amazing. I've
trained with the first team quite a bit as well and that makes me want to
kick on even more."
Rice joined West Ham from Chelsea as a youngster and quickly became one of
the hottest prospects at the Academy of Football. He made his U18s debut in
2014 and was named the Dylan Tombides Academy Player of the Year at the end
of the following season. His development has continued this season after
being named as U23s captain at the start of the campaign. Rice has also
experienced playing on the international stage - he was selected for the
Republic of Ireland U21s at the age of just 17 after impressing for the
U19s. "I got my first call up for the U21s a couple of months ago and that
was a great experience to be with a different set of lads and learn from
coaches who have a different style," Rice continued. "We've got the Euros
with the U19s coming up next month and I haven't been with them in a while
so I cannot wait to play with them again."
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Lanzini - I like this pressure
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini is relishing the extra responsibility of being West Ham
United's playmaker
No10 has assumed a more influential role since the departure of Dimitri
Payet
Argentine tells Official Programme the Hammers are in good form ahead of
visit of Chelsea
Manuel Lanzini welcomes the extra responsibility on him to be West Ham
United's playmaker since the departure of Dimitri Payet. While some players
may have withered under the added pressue, Lanzini has relished the
opportunity to reprise a role he filled as a youngster with River Plate.
There, his outstanding technical ability, elusive dribbling, perceptive
passing, accurate shooting and winning mentality brought him 13 goals and 14
assists in 89 first-team appearances - the majority of which he made before
his 20th birthday - and an Argentine Primera Division Final Tournament title
in May 2014. For the 24-year-old, being relied upon is something to be proud
of, rather than something to be intimidated by, and he is hoping to rise to
the challenge again when Premier League leaders Chelsea visit London Stadium
on Monday evening. "I like this pressure," he told Monday's Official
Programme for the visit of the Blues. "I like to take the ball and play for
the team and I need this for my personality. "I need the pressure and I need
to feel that the team is relying on me. This is important for me."
With Lanzini at the hub of the majority of good things about West Ham
United's attacking play over the last three months, the team has lost just
three of their last 12 Premier League matches, rising from the edge of the
relegation zone into the top half of the table. The South American himself
netted a superb third in the 3-0 home win over Crystal Palace, before
scoring a long-range special in the 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion at
London Stadium. Add two assists in the 3-1 victory at Middlesbrough in
between and it is easy to see why the No10 has become such an integral part
of Bilic's starting XI. "The team is good and we're playing good football at
the moment and this is important," he confirmed."
Elsewhere in Monday's issue, Ian 'Moose' Abrahams chats to West
Ham-supporting Emirates FA Cup giant-killers Danny and Nicky Cowley of
Lincoln City and Jamie Collins of Sutton United, while Evening Standard
columnist Ken Dyer talks to Lincoln's goalkeeper coach and former Hammers
stopper Jimmy Walker. Steve Blowers hears from ex-West Ham and Chelsea
midfielder Alan Dickens in They Wore the Claret & Blue, while there is an
educational interview with East Ham-born University Challenge semi-finalist
Bobby Seagull in Final Whistle. Joint-Chairman David Gold, manager Slaven
Bilic and captain Mark Noble all pen exclusive columns, while there is
plenty of information about Antonio Conte's visitors. With the very latest
from the Club's Premier League 2, Academy and Ladies teams, including
Student of the Game Alfie Lewis, plus updates from around London Stadium and
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Monday's Official Programme is a must-read for
any fan.
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Slaven Bilic says this season has provided 'priceless' experience for
himself and West Ham
Last Updated: 03/03/17 11:22pm
SSN
Slaven Bilic admits West Ham's turbulent season has been one of the toughest
of his career, but says he would not swap it for a less exciting one. The
Hammers have had to deal with moving to the London Stadium, fan unrest,
crowd trouble, an early exit from the Europa League, and the saga of Dimitri
Payet's move to Marseille. But the Hammers have emerged from that tricky
period and have climbed into the top half ahead of Monday's visit from
leaders Chelsea, live on Sky Sports 1. And Bilic, who has also managed in
Russia and Turkey as well as his national team, Croatia, says he and his
players are stronger for the experience.
Bilic said: "I consider this season as a great one for me individually, and
for the team, and for the club, because this season we experienced a lot of
negatives, a lot of positive things, but mainly a lot of new things. "I was
manager of my country and I was manager of Besiktas in Turkey, where the
pressure is basically bigger than here. "So, I got used to the job a little
bit. But was it hard? Yes. It's still hard. But you know that saying: 'What
doesn't kill you, makes you stronger'? "It's great because now it's a great
experience. For me personally, for every player, for the team and for the
club. "We don't want to start next season like we started this one. Was I
enjoying September? No, of course I wasn't enjoying September. Or October.
"But I wouldn't change it. I would change September and October. But, after
that, when you've made it and you get out of that, the experience is
priceless. "I wouldn't swap when I was under pressure or the team was under
pressure. I wouldn't swap it for a steady season."
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"F*** him!" - West Ham fan Ray Winstone sends message to Dimitri Payet at
premiere of Iron Men movie
Funnily enough, the Hollywood Hammer is no longer a fan of the Frenchman
The Mirror
BYFREDDIE HARDING
15:53, 4 MAR 2017
When Dimitri Payet decided to turn his back on the West Ham fans that adored
him so much, and force through a move back to Marseille, there were few men
he would have wanted to run into less than Ray Winstone . When Raymondo's
not playing the intimidating villain on the big screen, or telling us the
latest live betting odds, he's almost definitely watching his beloved
Hammers. And given that he grew up less than a mile from the Boleyn Ground,
supporting the Hammers all his life, it's no surprise to hear what he though
of the Frenchman's lack of loyalty. Speaking exclusively to Mirror Football
at the premiere of 'Iron Men', Ray said: "It just shows how easily
footballers can be upset. "When you box, you are one, you haven't got to
rely on anyone else, but when someone in the dressing room is upsetting
everyone else, well, the proof's in the pudding. "So, f*** him, he's gone."
Following Payet's departure, Slaven Bilic's side seemed to have turned a
corner, and after a tough start in their new home they now sit in ninth
ahead of Chelsea's visit to the London Stadium on Monday. And big Ray
believes the squad have started to play for each other now that last
season's Hammer of the year is back at Marseille. "I think this squad are
starting to knit together. We got bashed up against Man City, but we bounced
back. "We've got Chelsea on Monday, so let's see how we do."
Winstone featured heavily in the documentary about the Hammers' move from
Upton Park to Stratford's London Stadium, that followed what it meant to the
fans to leave the old ground behind. But if he had the opportunity to star
in a movie as one of the West Ham first team, there's only one man he could
see himself playing. "He's a bit shorter than me, but Mark Noble, I suppose.
"He's been the epitome of what West Ham's about and he's been there for a
long, long while. "I couldn't play the Geordie (Andy Carroll) because I
can't do the accent!"
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, March 4
Daily WHUFC News - 4th March 2017
Holland up for PL2 Player of the Month
WHUFC.com
West Ham United winger Nathan Holland has been nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award for February. The 18-year-old has dazzled since joining the club in January and joins fellow Hammers Toni Martinez, Marcus Browne and Domingos Quina as a nominee for the award. Holland played twice in Premier League 2 last month and scored the historic first ever PL2 goal at London Stadium against Fulham on 20 February in the Hammers 2-0 victory. After the match, manager Terry Westley compared the Manchester-born forward to a "young Ryan Giggs". Speaking after the win over the Cottagers, Westley said: "I'd probably say Nathan Holland [was brilliant], particularly in the first half. "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." He also scored in two consecutive Premier League Cup fixtures, opening his account against Leicester City in a 2-2 draw and netting in the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. Holland faces stiff competition for the award, coming up against Mason Bennett (Derby County), Liam Walsh (Everton), Brahim Diaz (Manchester City) and Donovan Wilson (Wolverhampton Wanderers). The winner of the award will be announced at the end of next of week.
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Nobes - AC's return would be massive boost WHUFC.com
Mark Noble says Andy Carroll's return against Chelsea would be 'massive' for West Ham United Centre forward fit again after a two-match absence with a groin injury Blues go into the weekend ten points clear at the top of the Premier League table
Mark Noble says Andy Carroll would give West Ham United a huge boost going into Monday's Premier League derby with Chelsea. The Hammers hope to welcome their talismanic No9 back for the visit of the leaders to London Stadium after a two-game absence with a groin injury. Captain Noble says the whole squad will be lifted if the England centre forward, who scored home and away against the Blues in the Premier League last season, is passed fit to face Antonio Conte's men. Carroll netted six goals in eleven appearances over Christmas and New Year, helping the Hammers to rise up the table, and the skipper says his physical presence and all-round qualities would give Chelsea something extra to think about at London Stadium. "Andy is massive for us whenever he is fit and everyone knows it," said Noble. "He was fit for eleven matches over Christmas and New Year and scored six goals, so we need to keep him available. I don't know how to do that, to be honest, but when he is fit he is a massive plus for us. "Andy knows how important he is to our team and he hates not being involved with the lads on the training pitch. Having a fit Andy Carroll is a massive boost for us."
Whether Carroll is ready to start the game or not, Noble says West Ham will need to be at their very best to beat Chelsea for the second time this season, having already done so in the EFL Cup fourth round back in October. As one of only four sides to have defeated Conte's high-fliers this term, the No16 says the Hammers can take inspiration from their knockout victory, but knows they will need all their ducks in a row if they are to repeat that result. "We face a top, top Chelsea team," he observed. "Anyone who can go ten points clear at the top of the Premier League at this stage is having an incredible season and we're going to need to be at 100 per cent to beat them on Monday night. "They are a great team – you've got to say that. They've taken this league by storm, are great at scoring goals, are great at defending and are strong in midfield, so we have to be at our best and, if they're not quite on it, we can get a result. I must admit I enjoy watching Chelsea play because they go to places which are really hard and get a result. They play fantastic football, but they can also mix it up and grind it out when they need to with a ball over the top to Diego Costa. They can win in different ways and they know how to win. "That said, we need to believe that we can win. We're at home, we know it's going to be a tough game, but we're playing well at the moment and we can prove something."
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Sakho getting closer to return
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic says Diafra Sakho could be set for a return to action in less than a month
The Senegalese forward has missed the majority of the season after undergoing back surgery
Manager also gave update on Angelo Ogbonna's rehab after his knee surgery
West Ham United forward Diafra Sakho could be available for selection in less than a month's time, according to manager Slaven Bilic. The Hammers boss confirmed Sakho, who has missed the majority of the campaign with a back problem, is progressing well with his recovery after undergoing surgery before Christmas and could be set to join the squad in the near future. Bilic also provided an update on Angelo Ogbonna, who recently underwent knee surgery after the Club's win over Middlesbrough at the end of January. "Sakho is coming back," Bilic said. "He's travelling to see the specialist in Bordeaux, to see the surgeon who will hopefully give him the green light to push up more. "If that meeting goes well, which we are expecting, he could be back and available – if he keeps progressing like he has been – in three or four weeks. "Angelo is also doing really good, after his surgery on his knee. Apart from that, there are some small knocks which you always have in a Club, but we are good."
As well as the injured pair, Bilic will be without Michail Antonio for Monday's meeting against Chelsea at London Stadium as he serves a one-match suspension after receiving a red card at Vicarage Road in last weekend's draw with Watford. Having scored eight goals in 25 Premier League appearances this campaign, Antonio has been one of the standout performers for Bilic's outfit and the Croatian believes he is close to agreeing a new deal with the Club. "It's just Michail is suspended, and of course that's a big blow for us," he continued. "Michail has got a contract here but the Club wants to reward him with a new contract, a better contract.
"We want to give him that because he has done really great for us. That's what the Chairman told me, and I think it's going to be done very soon."
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MARK WARD WRITES: WE CAN UPSET THE FORM BOOK IN OUR ULTIMATE TEST!
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 3 MARCH 2017 AT 8:19PM
TheWestHaMWayc.o.uk
This is our new weekly feature from former West Ham winger and member of the "Boys of 86" squad Mark Ward. Wardy is also the host of our prematch events and we will be getting his weekly opinion on all things West Ham. If you want to discuss anything the scouser says with him in person, you know where to find him on a match day!
The up coming game v Chelsea is a great game for the Hammers as it is the ultimate test for them as it looks as if this Chelsea team will be Champions. It is important to remember though that West Ham over the years have more than once took a top scalp and upset the form book. We should remember that twice we stopped a team winning the league. Beating Manchester United in 1992 with a goal from Kenny Brown and a host of Ludek Miklosko saves stopping them winning the League in 1995.
John Moncur, our last guest, told a funny story about his words with Roy Keane. They were having a few words with each other during the game in 1995 and Moncs told Keane "You wont be winning the title this year". In reply Keane said " I will seeing you in the tunnel after the game". Moncs replied with "I wont be in the tunnel I will be celebrating on the pitch!"
I've got a fantastic memory of beating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge 0-4 in 1985/86 season. It was a complete demolition of a good team which made the football world realise the HAMMERS were proper title contenders! It still hurts we didn't win it that season.
Lets hope the Hammers can put up a decent performance and have a strong end to the season. COYI
Mark Ward is hosting a number of events. He is the regular host at our event and will be doing a Q and A session with West Ham legend Phil Parkes. You can get tour tickets here: http://bit.ly/TWHWTICKET6
He is also hosting an event with another West Ham legend Alvin Martin at Crowlands golf club on the 31st March. You can call 02089847373 for tickets to that. Or if you want to hear Wardy and Steve Lomas you can meet them at The George II in Hornchurch on the 24th March. Tickets are £25 on the door.
COYI
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Get Snodgrass! Polis issue warrant
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 3rd March 2017
By: Staff Writer
A warrant has been issued for West Ham United's Robert Snodgrass after he failed to attend a court hearing in Glasgow. The 29-year-old Scottish international was due in court to answer a charge of driving "while a baby was being held by a passenger" but failed to attend as "he didn't think he had to", according to defence lawyer Martin Black. The incident is said to have occurred on the city's Duke Street on 17 April 2016. Snodgrass is accused of being in control of the car whilst a passenger held the child, as there was no baby seat present. The incident is unlikely to affect the winger's selection for West Ham's London derby with Chelsea at the Olympic Stadium.
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Going Dutch? Nathan nominated
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 3rd March 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's in-form Academy star Nathan Holland has been nominated for January's PL2 Player of the Month award. The young Hammer, who moved to the club from Everton in January is one of five young stars nominated for the award, which follows a fantastic first month at West Ham for Holland. The attacking midfielder, who signed a three-and-a-half year contract when completing his switch scored against Leicester in the Premier League Cup on his debut before notching against Nottingham Forest and Fulham. Holland is vying with Mason Bennett (Derby County), Liam Walsh (Everton), Brahim Diaz (Manchester City) and Donovan Wilson (Wolverhampton Wanderers) for the award, thew winner of which will be announced next week.
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Chelsea sweating on Hazard fitness
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 3rd March 2017
By: Staff Writer
Eden Hazard is a slight concern for Chelsea ahead of Monday night's clash with West Ham at the Olympic Stadium. The Belgian international has been in top form for his side this season but is a minor doubt for Monday's meeting after sustaining a knock during training this week, according to Chelsea boss Antonio Conte.
During his pre-match press conference, Conte - who urged his team to go and exact revenge for the EFL Cup defeat last October - also warned his players to keep an eye on Andy Carroll, United's in-form striker who is preparing to return from injury against Chelsea.
And he insisted that former Hammer, Victor Moses was derseving of a new contract having become a valuable member of the first team at Stamford Bridge this season.
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West Ham v Chelsea preview: Blues travel east for spicy London derby
Last Updated: 03/03/17 3:42pm
SSN
Premier League title favourites Chelsea travel east to take on West Ham United in what should be a spicy London derby on Monday Night Football. Only four teams in Premier League history have had more points at this stage of a season than Chelsea's 63 points. The only team with 63 or more points after 26 games not to go on to win the title was Arsenal in 2007/08. Chelsea have won 17 of 19 Premier League games against teams outside top-six this season but have lost their last two away games against West Ham. One of those defeats came earlier in the season when the Hammers knocked Chelsea out of the EFL Cup.
Team news
Andy Carroll is set to replace Michail Antonio in the West Ham squad. Striker Carroll is fit after missing the last two games with a groin injury but winger Antonio is suspended following his red card at Watford last weekend. Diafra Sakho (back) and Angelo Ogbonna (knee) are the only injury absentees.
Eden Hazard is expected to be fit for Chelsea despite a knock. Hazard was on the receiving end of a kick in training, but head coach Antonio Conte expects the Belgium playmaker to be available at the London Stadium. Chelsea, leaders by 10 points entering into this weekend's fixtures, have no other injury concerns.
Ways to watch
Coverage of Monday Night Football starts at 7pm live on Sky Sports 1 with presenter David Jones joined by Jamie Carragher and special guest Frank Lampard and you can also watch all the action in UHD via Sky Q.
Not able to watch the game? Sky Sports still has you covered, with minute-by-minute commentary across all digital platforms as well as in-game clips, half-time and full-time highlights available on the mobile app and in the Football Score Centre with a free Sky iD.
Match stats
This is the first league meeting between the sides at the London Stadium - the Hammers won just two of their last 10 Premier League games against Chelsea at Upton Park (D1 L7).
Chelsea have lost only two of their last 21 Premier League games against West Ham United (W15 D4).
However, the Hammers eliminated Chelsea from the EFL Cup at the fourth round stage this season; winning 2-1 at the London Stadium.
Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier League, suffering defeat by Arsenal in September and Tottenham in January, while beating Crystal Palace in the other game.
Carroll has scored five goals in his last three home London derbies in the Premier League.
Carroll is one goal away from his 50th strike in the Premier League and has scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea.
Cesc Fabregas recorded his 102nd Premier League assist in what was his 300th Premier League game last weekend. He needs one more to move outright second ahead of Frank Lampard (also 102).
Fabregas has already matched his total of assists from last season (seven) and assisted twice in last Premier League game against West Ham in March 2016.
Manuel Lanzini has scored in seven of his 11 Premier League London derby appearances (seven goals). He's scored four goals in 38 Premier League appearances against non-London sides.
The suspended Antonio has been involved in more Premier League goals than any other West Ham player this season (11).
Diego Costa has scored 48 goals in 78 Premier League appearances. Should he score two or more goals in this game, he'll be the fifth quickest to 50 goals in the competition after Andrew Cole (65 apps), Alan Shearer (66 apps), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68 apps) and Fernando Torres (72 apps).
Merson's prediction
Chelsea look like a well-oiled machine at the moment which is showing now signs of any faults. They did lose to West Ham at the London Stadium in the EFL Cup earlier in the season, but I do not expect a repeat performance. I expect Chelsea to win this game. West Ham have struggled in front of their own fans and are a better side away from home.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 (11/1 with Sky Bet)
Betting
Chelsea are just 8/13 with Sky Bet to take another crucial step towards the Premier League title by beating West Ham, who are 17/4 to upset their rivals with a win and 3/1 to hold out for a draw.
Conte's men headed into the weekend as 1/8 shots to lift the trophy while their hosts are 8/11 to secure a top-half finish. Costa heads the first goalscorer betting at 100/30 with Andy Carroll considered the hosts' main threat at 15/2, while the strike duo are 9/2 both to find the net.
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West Ham forward Robert Snodgrass issued with warrant after failing to attend court
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 03/03/17 10:29pm
SSN
A warrant has been issued for West Ham forward Robert Snodgrass after he failed to turn up for a court trial. The Scotland international, who joined the Hammers in a £10.2m deal from Hull during the January transfer window, is charged with driving a car while a baby was being held by a passenger. Snodgrass is alleged to have driven on Duke Street, Glasgow, on April 17 2016 with too many people in the vehicle to fit a baby seat in. The baby is alleged to have been in the arms of a rear seat passenger. Snodgrass, who was born in the city, did not attend the city's Justice of the Peace Court when the case was called. Defence lawyer Martin Black told the court "he didn't think he had to be" when asked why his client was not present. The Crown requested a warrant, which was granted by JP Eunice Paton.
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Slaven Bilic admits West Ham's turbulent season has been one of the toughest of his career
The Mirror
BYDARREN LEWIS
22:30, 3 MAR 2017
Slaven Bilic admits his troubled season at West Ham has been one of the toughest of his career. The 46-year-old former Besiktas, Croatia and Lokomotiv Moscow coach leads his team into battle against league leaders Chelsea on Monday night. It is to his credit that he does so with the Hammers confident of a top-10 finish after a nightmare first half of the season. "You pretend at home that you are OK because you don't want it to affect your family," said Bilic. "But inside of course you are hurting. This is not the kind of job that you can leave in your office and go home."
Hammers, who challenged for the top four last year, crashed out of Europa League qualifying to Romanian side Astra Giurgiu for the second successive year. It wrecked the owners' dream of bringing European football to the London Stadium in their first season. West Ham, ravaged by injury, went on to lose five of their opening six matches to leave Bilic under pressure. Although they beat Chelsea in the EFL Cup in October, that match was marred by violent clashes while fans complained that the new stadium did not match their expectations. A 4-1 defeat at Manchester United put the club out of the EFL Cup in November while a 5-1 humiliation at home to Arsenal four days later left Hammers in relegation trouble. A 5-0 FA Cup demolition, again at home, by Manchester City in January coincided with Dimitri Payet's insistence that he no longer wanted to play for the club.
Since the Frenchman's departure, West Ham have lost just one of their last six and the dressing room appears firmly behind the manager. Bilic believes a tough campaign has left strengthened him as a boss. He added: "Of course I wasn't enjoying the defeats but sometimes you have to sacrifice something to get something. "The experience is priceless. They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. "It's great because now I can see it as a great experience. For me personally, for the players, and for the club. "When you go home a part of you is affected by what happened during the day, with your bosses or colleagues or some fans who said something on social media. "In football it is not only the players or the manager who are getting the criticism, now the media gets it as well.
"Every one of you is very reachable from every fan around the world. I'm sure that you can say 'I am not bothered' but it affects your mood, your private mood.
"On a bigger scale of course it affects ours. And that is a good thing because if it was not affecting me or other managers then we would lose our determination and spirit for our job."
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West Ham midfielder Gokhan Tore sees his season derailed by one of his own team-mates
Tore was forced to undergo knee surgery and is now back in Turkey regaining fitness
The Mirror
BYMARC ISAACS
18:52, 3 MAR 2017
West Ham United midfielder Gokhan Tore reveals his season has been wrecked by ONE of his own team-mates, but has vowed to come back even stronger and prove his critics wrong. Tore has suffered a nightmare spell in English football following his season long-loan from Besiktas last summer. The 25-year-old only started three Premier League games before he picked up a knee injury during training and has been forced to undergo surgery. Tore has now returned to Turkey where he is slowly building his way back to full fitness and says he will never forget the moment that one of his own team-mates accidentally collided with him in the build-up to the Crystal Palace game and ended his season. West Ham stewards will continue to use cameras at London Stadium as they prepare for Chelsea visit Tore said: " Slaven Bilic was always like my brother, a teacher I love so much, I also like working with him. "I was transferred to England at the beginning of the season. I picked up a knee injury in the pre-season camp in the summer which put me back 3-4 weeks from match form. "After that I made a great effort to return to the first team. I went on to play six matches but there was another problem. During the preparations for the Crystal Palace match I was injured three minutes before the end of my workout. "My team mate entered a tackle hard and I felt something in my knees. The doctors looked and decided to carry out surgery"
Tore is determined to regain the form which saw him break into the Turkey side and says he will return to Besiktas a much stronger player. Tore added: "I'm in the recovery process now. I want to try to get stronger. I want to see a better Gokhan Tore for the Turkish people. I will return stronger. "I am in Istanbul, I do my individual recovery here. I get up at 8am every day, I'm brushing my teeth, I am jogging, I am having breakfast. I go to the gym at noon. I see a physical therapist for four hours each day. I am riding a bike and building up stamina. "The treatment and recovery program is very busy for me. I go home afterwards when special physical treatment continues. Then I go to the movies and read books. Besiktas supporters make feel you are a very special player. I hope to return stronger for them. "I am in my own country, I speak Turkish. To speak English in the UK I needed an interpreter. I feel more comfortable here. I cannot wait to return (to Besiktas) I believe everything will be beautiful after the recovery of my heath first."
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West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic to be offered a new deal and the opportunity to splash some cash
West Ham are ready to back Slaven Bilic in the transfer market next summer
They want the Croat to bring European football to the London Stadium
Bilic impressed last summer with his handling of the Dimitri Payet transfer saga
By KIERAN GILL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 22:39, 3 March 2017 | UPDATED: 22:39, 3 March 2017
West Ham United will hand Slaven Bilic a new contract in the summer and are ready to back him in the transfer market in a bid to bring European football to the London Stadium. Bilic's current deal expires at the end of next season, but a two-year extension tying the Croat to West Ham until 2020 is in the pipeline.
Talks were due to be held in January but they were put back. The board and Bilic are in no rush to finalise terms, with results improving and pushing the Hammers into the top half of the table. Insiders say it is acknowledged West Ham's squad is not on a par with those of rival Premier League clubs targeting Europe and that they overachieved last season by finishing seventh and qualifying for the Europa League. This summer, though, West Ham are prepared to hand Bilic the funds to bridge that gap, with signing a striker their priority. The £20.5million deal to bring in Andre Ayew from Swansea last year was a club record but it is expected to be smashed in the search for a proven goalscorer. Bilic, who replaced Sam Allardyce in June 2015 on a three-year contract, gets on well with the West Ham board and was impressive in his handling of the Dimitri Payet saga. West Ham's suffered a poor start to the season but the former Croatia manager was never in any danger of the sack and he has steadied the ship. The Hammers sit ninth in the table and are preparing to play runaway league leaders Chelsea on Monday night. Gareth Southgate is expected at the London Stadium for the game, which will probably be the only one the England manager attends this weekend as he prepares to name his squad for this month's friendly in Germany and the World Cup qualifier against Lithuania. It gives Andy Carroll another chance to impress, but another England hopeful, Michail Antonio, is suspended following his red card at Watford last Saturday.
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham have done a 'great job' combating crowd trouble By PA Sport Last Updated: 03/03/17 12:08am SSN
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham have solved their crowd trouble issues ahead of Monday's match with Chelsea. The EFL Cup clash between the London rivals at the London Stadium in October was marred by coin throwing and fighting between rival fans. But moves to improve the segregation, policing and stewarding have meant that such ugly scenes have all but disappeared since that night. Vice-chairman Karren Brady has worked hard to put an end to disorder in the stands, and Bilic is confident she has succeeded. "It is not that I think it, it is definitely the truth," the Hammers manager said. "I have monthly meetings with Baroness Brady. "We have talked a lot about that and I know how much effort, through her of course, has been put into solving those problems. "She, or we, have done it, so I am not expecting [a repeat]. "Of course, there could be individual things that may happen, but the club has done a really great job regarding that. "They have approached it since that game really seriously. We have done it, yes."
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Why Kevin Malcuit is the perfect solution to Slaven Bilic's right-back problem at West Ham The St Etienne full-back is West Ham target as they look to sign a qualified option in the position and Andrew Gibney believes Malcuit fits the bill Football London BYANDREW GIBNEY 11:40, 3 MAR 2017UPDATED11:43, 3 MAR 2017
When AS Monaco were relegated to Ligue 2 in 2011, the whole team shifted in direction. Big stars moved on, the squad was ripped apart and a lot of the youth system were expected to sink or swim in the principality. Left-back Layvin Kurzawa flourished, on the other flank, Kévin Malcuit, went on loan to OC Vannes before moving locally to Fréjus-Saint-Raphaël. Just turned 21, he had to rebuild his career in the lower divisions, five years later he is looking set for a move to West Ham United or Manchester United in the summer.
Now 25 years old, the defender has paid his dues, climbing up the ladder with Chamois Niortais, before Saint-Étienne snapped him up in 2015. "In Fréjus, I learned about real life. I was away from one of the best training centres in France, where everyone was very attentive to me and where I could afford to only think about football," Malcuit admitted looking back on his early career. "In the National, it isn't as comfortable. Honestly, I needed that to bounce back. I got a good slap. This gave me strength and determination."
Saint Etienne defender Kevin Malcuit is reportedly close to agreeing a move to West Ham (Photo: PASCAL GUYOT/AFP/Getty Images) At the Stade Louis II, he managed 21 minutes of a Ligue 1 fixture against Toulouse in 2010, there would be a five-year gap before he featured at the top level again. He admitted that he needed that kick to get his career back on track, knowing that it wasn't a permanent drop, that he would make his return. Even when he joined Sainté, he wasn't Christophe Galtier's first-choice, not until this term has he convinced his coach that he can be trusted with the role. That doesn't mean he hadn't impressed. Whenever he was called upon, Malcuit was defensively sound, playing well against Paris Saint-Germain on several occasions. After nine appearances last season, he's made 19 this term, excelling regardless of whether it was 5-3-2 or 4-4-2. Playing against Manchester United, Les Stephanois may have lost the tie 4-0, but the right-back did enough to catch Jose Mourinho's attention and the Old Trafford boss is contemplating challenging the Hammers for his signature.
Slaven Bilic has used a few players on the right of the defence in the Premier League. From Håvard Nordtveit, Sam Byram and even midfielder, Cheikhou Kouyaté. It's an obvious problem area, so the continued link to Malcuit makes perfect sense. An eager attacker, the full-back is very good at getting up and down the flank, showing a fearlessness regardless of who they are playing. Malcuit has made more attempted tackles than anyone in the Hammers squad that has played in that role, plus the Frenchman has three assists this campaign. In Ligue 1, the 25-year-old is averaging 2.8 interceptions per 90 minutes, Nordtveit is up at 2.9 and Kouyaté is just behind on 2.6. Malcuit was quick enough to track the runs of Marcus Rashford and he's shown that side to his game a lot this season, able to read the game, he looks to get in the way of opposition passes, but always has the pace to get back and recovery. He has been successful with 2.7 of his 4.7 dribbles per 90 minutes this term, superb numbers for a full-back and testament to his attacking prowess. To compare, Dimitri Payet was completing successful in 2.8 of his 4.8 dribble attempts before moving to Marseille.
Contracted till 2019, Saint-Étienne already refused a €10 million bid in January and compared to what the likes of Benjamin Mendy, Jordan Amavi and Djibril Sidibe were all sold for recently, because he is older, the French club would be looking for around €12-15million in the summer. Maybe then, with a move to the Olympic Stadium, Malcuit can get revenge on Anthony Martial for when the fellow former Monegasque youngster draw blood when he smacked him with his arm at Old Trafford.
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West Ham will issue stewards with video cameras in bid to avoid potential fan trouble during Chelsea clash The Hammers will look to avoid scenes from the previous encounter between the sides in the EFL Cup last October The Mirror BYJACK RATHBORN 10:51, 3 MAR 2017
West Ham will provide stewards with video cameras for the London derby against Chelsea in a bid to avoid a repeat of fan trouble between sets of supporters. The London Stadium officials will be issued with handheld video cameras for the Monday night fixture after trouble erupted during the last meeting between the clubs. Hundreds of fans were seen launching bottles, seats and coins at each other during the EFL Cup tie last October. Seven arrests were made and 71 fans were subsequently banned from the Hammers' new home.
In addition to video cameras for stewards, the club will also introduce a larger segregation between supporters and clearer exit routes to avoid confrontation upon leaving the stadium. Manager Slaven Bilic has revealed that he has held monthly meetings with Baroness Brady in a bid to solve the issue. "I have monthly meetings with Baroness Brady. We have talked a lot and I know how much effort, through her of course, has been put into solving those problems," Bilic said. "We have done it so I am not expecting a repeat of the trouble. Of course there could be individual things that may happen but the club has done a really great job regarding that, they have approached it since that game really seriously."
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Exclusive: Michail Antonio's two word West Ham admission By James Jones - Mar 3, 2017 0
westhamworld.co.uk
West Ham fans love a hard worker, someone who gives everything to the cause at all times. So it's no real surprise that Michail Antonio has become one of the most loved players at West Ham since he arrived from Nottingham Forest 18 months ago. For Antonio, the £7m transfer to east London marked the latest chapter in what has been one of English football's less documented rags to riches stories. While Jamie Vardy had his six year journey from non-league Stocksbridge Park Steels to lifting the Premier League title with Leicester City, Antonio had his own story to tell.
In 2008 Antonio was turning out for Tooting & Mitcham United. Since then he has climbed the Football League ladder with the likes of Reading, Cheltenham Town, Southampton, Colchester United, Sheffield Wednesday and, of course, Nottingham Forest. It was his performances for Forest in the Championship that convinced Slaven Bilic that he was good enough to have his chance in the biggest league in the world. And after having to wait patiently for a real chance to show the Premier League what he has to offer, Michail Antonio has not looked back since being given his first start for the club four months after signing.
If you fast forward to today, it has been an incredible 18 months or so for Antonio. He has scored 17 goals in 65 first team appearances for the Hammers and was rewarded for such consistency with a first ever call-up to the England squad in August 2016.
It is fair to say that the forward is enjoying the best form of his career to date, and as I sit down to discuss life at the club with him as part of Heineken's HammerHeads competition at Rush Green, there are only two words Antonio has to describe what it's like playing for West Ham United.
"I'm home," he tells me, with a big grin on his face. It's an admission that every West Ham fan will be delighted to hear. Put simply, Antonio is one of the most effective players at the club right now. But as I mentioned earlier, his journey from new arrival to first name on the team sheet has not been easy for the 26-year-old. "It's difficult being a player that, for the last five or six years of my career, if I was fit I would have been playing," Antonio admits when I ask him about his first few months at the club.
"At clubs like Sheffield Wednesday, Nottingham Forest and Colchester, I always played. So coming here and not playing was quite difficult because it was new to me."
So, how does a player so used to playing every week adapt and remain focused on forcing his way in to the manager's plans? "I'm the kind of person who always believes in my ability, I believe in myself and I always told myself that if I ever get an opportunity, I'm going to take it. "I always knew I was good enough to play in the Premier League, that's what kept me going and what kept me motivated."
That self-belief and motivation has been evident to those who have seen Antonio turn out for the Hammers week in, week out. Having netted 17 goals for the club so far and currently topping the squad's scoring charts with eight in all competitions this season, Antonio has become a vital source of goals for Bilic's side. But how does a player who has played in a number of different positions for West Ham still manage to find his way on the scoresheet. "I just always want to get in the box," he tells me. "I'm the sort of player who always wants to be around the goal and more often than not, if you're in the box, the ball might drop for you. "It's one of those things where I'm always going to be there, I'm always going to make sure I'm around."
His goalscoring antics have been amplified somewhat by his fun and quirky celebrations. We all know the story behind why he celebrates goals the way he does, but the burning question I have to wrap up the short chat we had at Rush Green was; do you have another celebration lined up and can he tell us what it is? "Yeah, I have another one lined up but I'm not even giving you hint!"
It was the answer I was expecting, but you can't knock a guy for trying. Antonio hasn't scored since the 4-1 Boxing Day win over Swansea City but, given the season he's having, I don't think it'll be long before we see his next celebration in action.
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Aaron Cresswell: West Ham aren't going to 'pack our suitcases' and accept 10th place this season VAISHALI BHARDWAJ Evening Standard
Aaron Cresswell insists the West Ham players are not thinking about their summer break already, saying the Hammers will fight to finish in the top ten this season. Slaven Bilic's side have recovered from a poor start to the campaign in what is their first season at the London Stadium to lose just three of their last 12 Premier League games. The upturn in results since the beginning of December has lifted West Ham into ninth position in the league standings, with defender Winston Reid telling Standard Sport recently a ninth, eighth or seventh-placed finish this term would be "acceptable" considering the start the Hammers had.
Cresswell has echoed Reid's thoughts, admitting the team are working hard to ensure they end in the top 10 ahead of West Ham's London derby clash with Chelsea on Monday night. "We're not about to pack our suitcases, that's for sure," Cresswell told West Ham's official website. "With the lads we've got here, we're not going to rest on our laurels and accept tenth or twelfth position. "While there are points to play for, we'll give it everything we've got week-in, week-out and try to get as many points on the board as we can between now and 21 May."
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Slaven Bilic insists there will be no repeat of violent clashes between West Ham and Chelsea fans on Monday night The Hammers are ready to impose a raft of new measures to prevent a repeat of the trouble in Sky's live game next week The Mirror BYDARREN LEWIS 23:10, 2 MAR 2017
Slaven Bilic insists he is confident there will be no repeat of the violent clashes that marred West Ham's League Cup win over Chelsea on Monday night. Missiles — including seats, coins and bottles — were thrown by both hooligans within sets of fans towards the end of October 26 tie. Seven arrests were made on the night. Hammers officials have since worked with the police to identify 97 supporters through CCTV footage with banning orders imposed on them. The club are now ready to impose a raft of new measures to prevent a repeat of the trouble in Sky's live game next week. The fixture, at the 57,000-seater stadium, has been given the highest security category. Bilic said: "It is not that I think [there will not be a repeat], it is definitely the truth. "I have been spending a lot of time thinking about it. I have monthly meetings with Baroness Brady. "We have talked a lot about that and I know how much effort, through her of course, has been put in to solving those problems. "She or we have done it so I am not expecting (a repeat). Of course there could be individual things that may happen but the club has done a really great job regarding that. They have approached it since that game really seriously."
West Ham have drafted a 'five-point plan' which they hope will avoid a repeat of the appalling scenes. Stewards will be given hand-held cameras to film troublemakers. The segregation areas between rival fans will be widened and there will also be higher physical barriers between the home and away sections. Exit routes after the game will also be blocked off to keep rival factions apart after fights which followed the League Cup tie. Meanwhile Bilic is refusing to get carried away by suggestions he has done enough to earn a new deal at the London Stadium. The Croat has lost just one of his last six games, winning three, since seeing his side demolished 5-0 by Manchester City at home in the FA Cup. But Bilic used the sacking of Claudio Ranieri, dismissed a year after winning the League, to point out that no manager in football is ever safe. He said: "The last example of Ranieri is the biggest one or the best example. "If you asked anyone who has anything to do with football who had had the safest job before the season started?
"We would all say - 100% in all countries - Ranieri, Ranieri. But then what happened was that. So I'm not bothered about it, to be fair."
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Iron Men premiere review: The tales you didn't know about the Boleyn and even some booing for Payet Sam Inkersole assesses the new Iron Men film and what it means to Hammers fans following last night's premiere Football London BYSAM INKERSOLE 07:45, 3 MAR 2017UPDATED07:49, 3 MAR 2017
The media, West Ham players, staff and fans all descended on the Genesis Cinema in Mile End on Thursday for the anticipated premiere of Iron Men – the film documenting the final days of the Boleyn Ground and the move to the London Stadium. After the players were photographed hundreds of times – Jonathan Calleri looked like a rabbit in headlights and Pedro Obiang was the only player to bring his Mrs – and interviews with us press folk, the film got underway. The Oscars, this certainly was not. Immediately, we were greeted with the image of Ray Winstone in a car, wondering where the pub was he used to frequent, which is now a Tesco Express. Then, the first – and very loud – boos of the evening as we were treated to a close up of Dimitri Payet taking a set piece. Hisses were evident as well.
There was almost a tension around screen one as we looked back at the Boleyn Ground – first for the FA Cup tie quarter final replay with Manchester United. A game which Winstone describes as "s**t." Lots of Iron Men, particularly the opening moments, is dedicated to the traders who are losing out by the club moving. The man who sells the West Ham fanzine "Over Land and Sea" and has done for 40 years, Nathan's Pie and Eels in Green Street, "The Rib Man" Mark Gevaux, the sweet store seller outside Upton Park and The Boleyn pub.
We get up close and personal with David Gold, Mark Noble and Slaven Bilic. People who are media trained so even we don't get to see them up this close. "It's gonna be strange," says Noble, Bilic alludes to if he wanted to have the best atmosphere, he would remain at the Boleyn. "It's something we have to do, it is the future," adds Gold as he surveys where he grew up, where he then owned and where the club was moving to in one shot.
Slaven Bilic spoke about how he hopes to retain the Boleyn Ground atmosphere at the London Stadium (Photo: West Ham United FC) We then meet the star of the show, Hammers 100-year-old superfan Mabel Arnold, who went to her first game in east London in 1934.
As the documentary meanders towards that final game on May 7 against United, Mabel tells us West Ham are "doing her nut in" by moving to Stratford, Noble takes us to Canning Town where he grew up, Ray Winstone does likewise 1.5 miles from Upton Park. Karren Brady – such a divisive figure among West Ham fans – appears and she talks about the London Stadium. There are a few murmurs in the cinema, nothing more.
The documentary is trying to convince any remaining doubters that the move to E20 from E13 was the right thing to do, but there is always that lingering doubt that some are still not convinced. We reach the crescendo, that famous 3-2 win against United on that wet Monday night at the Boleyn. We see Winston Reid score the final goal, the cinema erupts in applause. We see Mabel Arnold, tears streaming down her face. It really was an emotional night.
The film ends with some captions telling us the man who sold the fanzine has kept his promise and not been to the London Stadium, Mabel has been to every home game in E20 and the Rib Man, Mr Gevaux, has moved too even though he wasn't sure if he'd make the trip.
"I am the Rib Man of West Ham," the man who lost his left leg in a car accident tells the camera. "I have a new home," he adds. Let's hope that West Ham United Football Club can truly make the London Stadium their home, just like the Boleyn was for those glorious 112 years.
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Nigel Reo-Coker concedes he learned to appreciate West Ham the hard way HITC Damien Lucas
Nigel Reo-Coker had a fractured relationship with West Ham United fans and has admitted he didn't appreciate the club while he was there. Reo-Coker came within minutes of eclipsing Hammers great Bobby Moore as the youngest captain in the club's history to lift the FA Cup. Steven Gerrard stole that honour away from him, though, in that epic final against Liverpool back in 2006 and the rest as they say is history. A firm favourite with Hammers fans, Reo-Coker enjoyed a memorable three and a half years in East London. But it ended somewhat acrimoniously as his relationship with the club's fans soured in the wake of suggestions from manager Alan Curbishley of a 'Baby Bentley Brigade' at the club during their fight against relegation.
Reo-Coker risked the wrath of supporters when he cupped his ear to the crowd after scoring at the Boleyn Ground. He moved on to Aston Villa after the club's Great Escape was sealed by Carlos Tevez in 2007 and was booed on his return. And in an interview with the whufc.com, Reo-Coker - now 32 and without a club - has conceded he did not appreciate what he had at West Ham until he left. "I can say this now because I've been away for a few years and I've travelled around a bit and been to different places – I truly realise how big and special this club is," Reo-Coker told West Ham TV. "It's the part of my career that has really stayed with me. It's something that I've never forgotten and it's something that I truly appreciate. "Everywhere I go, I'm always remembered and recognised from my time at West Ham. There have been so many Hammers fans I have met worldwide, and that's when you understand how big the fanbase is."
The former midfielder's words will not be lost on West Ham fans who appreciate what he did for the club during his time there. He was the club's brave young captain who helped lead them back to the Premier League under Alan Pardew and then onto a strong finish in the Premier League and that FA Cup final. That season also saw West Ham qualify for what was then the UEFA Cup, although their stay in the competition was shortlived after a heavy two-legged defeat to Palermo. Despite only being 32, Reo-Coker has been out of action for over a year after having his contract at Major League Soccer side Montreal Impact terminated by mutual consent in January 2016.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United winger Nathan Holland has been nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award for February. The 18-year-old has dazzled since joining the club in January and joins fellow Hammers Toni Martinez, Marcus Browne and Domingos Quina as a nominee for the award. Holland played twice in Premier League 2 last month and scored the historic first ever PL2 goal at London Stadium against Fulham on 20 February in the Hammers 2-0 victory. After the match, manager Terry Westley compared the Manchester-born forward to a "young Ryan Giggs". Speaking after the win over the Cottagers, Westley said: "I'd probably say Nathan Holland [was brilliant], particularly in the first half. "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." He also scored in two consecutive Premier League Cup fixtures, opening his account against Leicester City in a 2-2 draw and netting in the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. Holland faces stiff competition for the award, coming up against Mason Bennett (Derby County), Liam Walsh (Everton), Brahim Diaz (Manchester City) and Donovan Wilson (Wolverhampton Wanderers). The winner of the award will be announced at the end of next of week.
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Nobes - AC's return would be massive boost WHUFC.com
Mark Noble says Andy Carroll's return against Chelsea would be 'massive' for West Ham United Centre forward fit again after a two-match absence with a groin injury Blues go into the weekend ten points clear at the top of the Premier League table
Mark Noble says Andy Carroll would give West Ham United a huge boost going into Monday's Premier League derby with Chelsea. The Hammers hope to welcome their talismanic No9 back for the visit of the leaders to London Stadium after a two-game absence with a groin injury. Captain Noble says the whole squad will be lifted if the England centre forward, who scored home and away against the Blues in the Premier League last season, is passed fit to face Antonio Conte's men. Carroll netted six goals in eleven appearances over Christmas and New Year, helping the Hammers to rise up the table, and the skipper says his physical presence and all-round qualities would give Chelsea something extra to think about at London Stadium. "Andy is massive for us whenever he is fit and everyone knows it," said Noble. "He was fit for eleven matches over Christmas and New Year and scored six goals, so we need to keep him available. I don't know how to do that, to be honest, but when he is fit he is a massive plus for us. "Andy knows how important he is to our team and he hates not being involved with the lads on the training pitch. Having a fit Andy Carroll is a massive boost for us."
Whether Carroll is ready to start the game or not, Noble says West Ham will need to be at their very best to beat Chelsea for the second time this season, having already done so in the EFL Cup fourth round back in October. As one of only four sides to have defeated Conte's high-fliers this term, the No16 says the Hammers can take inspiration from their knockout victory, but knows they will need all their ducks in a row if they are to repeat that result. "We face a top, top Chelsea team," he observed. "Anyone who can go ten points clear at the top of the Premier League at this stage is having an incredible season and we're going to need to be at 100 per cent to beat them on Monday night. "They are a great team – you've got to say that. They've taken this league by storm, are great at scoring goals, are great at defending and are strong in midfield, so we have to be at our best and, if they're not quite on it, we can get a result. I must admit I enjoy watching Chelsea play because they go to places which are really hard and get a result. They play fantastic football, but they can also mix it up and grind it out when they need to with a ball over the top to Diego Costa. They can win in different ways and they know how to win. "That said, we need to believe that we can win. We're at home, we know it's going to be a tough game, but we're playing well at the moment and we can prove something."
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Sakho getting closer to return
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic says Diafra Sakho could be set for a return to action in less than a month
The Senegalese forward has missed the majority of the season after undergoing back surgery
Manager also gave update on Angelo Ogbonna's rehab after his knee surgery
West Ham United forward Diafra Sakho could be available for selection in less than a month's time, according to manager Slaven Bilic. The Hammers boss confirmed Sakho, who has missed the majority of the campaign with a back problem, is progressing well with his recovery after undergoing surgery before Christmas and could be set to join the squad in the near future. Bilic also provided an update on Angelo Ogbonna, who recently underwent knee surgery after the Club's win over Middlesbrough at the end of January. "Sakho is coming back," Bilic said. "He's travelling to see the specialist in Bordeaux, to see the surgeon who will hopefully give him the green light to push up more. "If that meeting goes well, which we are expecting, he could be back and available – if he keeps progressing like he has been – in three or four weeks. "Angelo is also doing really good, after his surgery on his knee. Apart from that, there are some small knocks which you always have in a Club, but we are good."
As well as the injured pair, Bilic will be without Michail Antonio for Monday's meeting against Chelsea at London Stadium as he serves a one-match suspension after receiving a red card at Vicarage Road in last weekend's draw with Watford. Having scored eight goals in 25 Premier League appearances this campaign, Antonio has been one of the standout performers for Bilic's outfit and the Croatian believes he is close to agreeing a new deal with the Club. "It's just Michail is suspended, and of course that's a big blow for us," he continued. "Michail has got a contract here but the Club wants to reward him with a new contract, a better contract.
"We want to give him that because he has done really great for us. That's what the Chairman told me, and I think it's going to be done very soon."
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MARK WARD WRITES: WE CAN UPSET THE FORM BOOK IN OUR ULTIMATE TEST!
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 3 MARCH 2017 AT 8:19PM
TheWestHaMWayc.o.uk
This is our new weekly feature from former West Ham winger and member of the "Boys of 86" squad Mark Ward. Wardy is also the host of our prematch events and we will be getting his weekly opinion on all things West Ham. If you want to discuss anything the scouser says with him in person, you know where to find him on a match day!
The up coming game v Chelsea is a great game for the Hammers as it is the ultimate test for them as it looks as if this Chelsea team will be Champions. It is important to remember though that West Ham over the years have more than once took a top scalp and upset the form book. We should remember that twice we stopped a team winning the league. Beating Manchester United in 1992 with a goal from Kenny Brown and a host of Ludek Miklosko saves stopping them winning the League in 1995.
John Moncur, our last guest, told a funny story about his words with Roy Keane. They were having a few words with each other during the game in 1995 and Moncs told Keane "You wont be winning the title this year". In reply Keane said " I will seeing you in the tunnel after the game". Moncs replied with "I wont be in the tunnel I will be celebrating on the pitch!"
I've got a fantastic memory of beating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge 0-4 in 1985/86 season. It was a complete demolition of a good team which made the football world realise the HAMMERS were proper title contenders! It still hurts we didn't win it that season.
Lets hope the Hammers can put up a decent performance and have a strong end to the season. COYI
Mark Ward is hosting a number of events. He is the regular host at our event and will be doing a Q and A session with West Ham legend Phil Parkes. You can get tour tickets here: http://bit.ly/TWHWTICKET6
He is also hosting an event with another West Ham legend Alvin Martin at Crowlands golf club on the 31st March. You can call 02089847373 for tickets to that. Or if you want to hear Wardy and Steve Lomas you can meet them at The George II in Hornchurch on the 24th March. Tickets are £25 on the door.
COYI
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Get Snodgrass! Polis issue warrant
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 3rd March 2017
By: Staff Writer
A warrant has been issued for West Ham United's Robert Snodgrass after he failed to attend a court hearing in Glasgow. The 29-year-old Scottish international was due in court to answer a charge of driving "while a baby was being held by a passenger" but failed to attend as "he didn't think he had to", according to defence lawyer Martin Black. The incident is said to have occurred on the city's Duke Street on 17 April 2016. Snodgrass is accused of being in control of the car whilst a passenger held the child, as there was no baby seat present. The incident is unlikely to affect the winger's selection for West Ham's London derby with Chelsea at the Olympic Stadium.
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Going Dutch? Nathan nominated
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 3rd March 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's in-form Academy star Nathan Holland has been nominated for January's PL2 Player of the Month award. The young Hammer, who moved to the club from Everton in January is one of five young stars nominated for the award, which follows a fantastic first month at West Ham for Holland. The attacking midfielder, who signed a three-and-a-half year contract when completing his switch scored against Leicester in the Premier League Cup on his debut before notching against Nottingham Forest and Fulham. Holland is vying with Mason Bennett (Derby County), Liam Walsh (Everton), Brahim Diaz (Manchester City) and Donovan Wilson (Wolverhampton Wanderers) for the award, thew winner of which will be announced next week.
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Chelsea sweating on Hazard fitness
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 3rd March 2017
By: Staff Writer
Eden Hazard is a slight concern for Chelsea ahead of Monday night's clash with West Ham at the Olympic Stadium. The Belgian international has been in top form for his side this season but is a minor doubt for Monday's meeting after sustaining a knock during training this week, according to Chelsea boss Antonio Conte.
During his pre-match press conference, Conte - who urged his team to go and exact revenge for the EFL Cup defeat last October - also warned his players to keep an eye on Andy Carroll, United's in-form striker who is preparing to return from injury against Chelsea.
And he insisted that former Hammer, Victor Moses was derseving of a new contract having become a valuable member of the first team at Stamford Bridge this season.
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West Ham v Chelsea preview: Blues travel east for spicy London derby
Last Updated: 03/03/17 3:42pm
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Premier League title favourites Chelsea travel east to take on West Ham United in what should be a spicy London derby on Monday Night Football. Only four teams in Premier League history have had more points at this stage of a season than Chelsea's 63 points. The only team with 63 or more points after 26 games not to go on to win the title was Arsenal in 2007/08. Chelsea have won 17 of 19 Premier League games against teams outside top-six this season but have lost their last two away games against West Ham. One of those defeats came earlier in the season when the Hammers knocked Chelsea out of the EFL Cup.
Team news
Andy Carroll is set to replace Michail Antonio in the West Ham squad. Striker Carroll is fit after missing the last two games with a groin injury but winger Antonio is suspended following his red card at Watford last weekend. Diafra Sakho (back) and Angelo Ogbonna (knee) are the only injury absentees.
Eden Hazard is expected to be fit for Chelsea despite a knock. Hazard was on the receiving end of a kick in training, but head coach Antonio Conte expects the Belgium playmaker to be available at the London Stadium. Chelsea, leaders by 10 points entering into this weekend's fixtures, have no other injury concerns.
Ways to watch
Coverage of Monday Night Football starts at 7pm live on Sky Sports 1 with presenter David Jones joined by Jamie Carragher and special guest Frank Lampard and you can also watch all the action in UHD via Sky Q.
Not able to watch the game? Sky Sports still has you covered, with minute-by-minute commentary across all digital platforms as well as in-game clips, half-time and full-time highlights available on the mobile app and in the Football Score Centre with a free Sky iD.
Match stats
This is the first league meeting between the sides at the London Stadium - the Hammers won just two of their last 10 Premier League games against Chelsea at Upton Park (D1 L7).
Chelsea have lost only two of their last 21 Premier League games against West Ham United (W15 D4).
However, the Hammers eliminated Chelsea from the EFL Cup at the fourth round stage this season; winning 2-1 at the London Stadium.
Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier League, suffering defeat by Arsenal in September and Tottenham in January, while beating Crystal Palace in the other game.
Carroll has scored five goals in his last three home London derbies in the Premier League.
Carroll is one goal away from his 50th strike in the Premier League and has scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea.
Cesc Fabregas recorded his 102nd Premier League assist in what was his 300th Premier League game last weekend. He needs one more to move outright second ahead of Frank Lampard (also 102).
Fabregas has already matched his total of assists from last season (seven) and assisted twice in last Premier League game against West Ham in March 2016.
Manuel Lanzini has scored in seven of his 11 Premier League London derby appearances (seven goals). He's scored four goals in 38 Premier League appearances against non-London sides.
The suspended Antonio has been involved in more Premier League goals than any other West Ham player this season (11).
Diego Costa has scored 48 goals in 78 Premier League appearances. Should he score two or more goals in this game, he'll be the fifth quickest to 50 goals in the competition after Andrew Cole (65 apps), Alan Shearer (66 apps), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68 apps) and Fernando Torres (72 apps).
Merson's prediction
Chelsea look like a well-oiled machine at the moment which is showing now signs of any faults. They did lose to West Ham at the London Stadium in the EFL Cup earlier in the season, but I do not expect a repeat performance. I expect Chelsea to win this game. West Ham have struggled in front of their own fans and are a better side away from home.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 (11/1 with Sky Bet)
Betting
Chelsea are just 8/13 with Sky Bet to take another crucial step towards the Premier League title by beating West Ham, who are 17/4 to upset their rivals with a win and 3/1 to hold out for a draw.
Conte's men headed into the weekend as 1/8 shots to lift the trophy while their hosts are 8/11 to secure a top-half finish. Costa heads the first goalscorer betting at 100/30 with Andy Carroll considered the hosts' main threat at 15/2, while the strike duo are 9/2 both to find the net.
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West Ham forward Robert Snodgrass issued with warrant after failing to attend court
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 03/03/17 10:29pm
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A warrant has been issued for West Ham forward Robert Snodgrass after he failed to turn up for a court trial. The Scotland international, who joined the Hammers in a £10.2m deal from Hull during the January transfer window, is charged with driving a car while a baby was being held by a passenger. Snodgrass is alleged to have driven on Duke Street, Glasgow, on April 17 2016 with too many people in the vehicle to fit a baby seat in. The baby is alleged to have been in the arms of a rear seat passenger. Snodgrass, who was born in the city, did not attend the city's Justice of the Peace Court when the case was called. Defence lawyer Martin Black told the court "he didn't think he had to be" when asked why his client was not present. The Crown requested a warrant, which was granted by JP Eunice Paton.
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Slaven Bilic admits West Ham's turbulent season has been one of the toughest of his career
The Mirror
BYDARREN LEWIS
22:30, 3 MAR 2017
Slaven Bilic admits his troubled season at West Ham has been one of the toughest of his career. The 46-year-old former Besiktas, Croatia and Lokomotiv Moscow coach leads his team into battle against league leaders Chelsea on Monday night. It is to his credit that he does so with the Hammers confident of a top-10 finish after a nightmare first half of the season. "You pretend at home that you are OK because you don't want it to affect your family," said Bilic. "But inside of course you are hurting. This is not the kind of job that you can leave in your office and go home."
Hammers, who challenged for the top four last year, crashed out of Europa League qualifying to Romanian side Astra Giurgiu for the second successive year. It wrecked the owners' dream of bringing European football to the London Stadium in their first season. West Ham, ravaged by injury, went on to lose five of their opening six matches to leave Bilic under pressure. Although they beat Chelsea in the EFL Cup in October, that match was marred by violent clashes while fans complained that the new stadium did not match their expectations. A 4-1 defeat at Manchester United put the club out of the EFL Cup in November while a 5-1 humiliation at home to Arsenal four days later left Hammers in relegation trouble. A 5-0 FA Cup demolition, again at home, by Manchester City in January coincided with Dimitri Payet's insistence that he no longer wanted to play for the club.
Since the Frenchman's departure, West Ham have lost just one of their last six and the dressing room appears firmly behind the manager. Bilic believes a tough campaign has left strengthened him as a boss. He added: "Of course I wasn't enjoying the defeats but sometimes you have to sacrifice something to get something. "The experience is priceless. They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. "It's great because now I can see it as a great experience. For me personally, for the players, and for the club. "When you go home a part of you is affected by what happened during the day, with your bosses or colleagues or some fans who said something on social media. "In football it is not only the players or the manager who are getting the criticism, now the media gets it as well.
"Every one of you is very reachable from every fan around the world. I'm sure that you can say 'I am not bothered' but it affects your mood, your private mood.
"On a bigger scale of course it affects ours. And that is a good thing because if it was not affecting me or other managers then we would lose our determination and spirit for our job."
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West Ham midfielder Gokhan Tore sees his season derailed by one of his own team-mates
Tore was forced to undergo knee surgery and is now back in Turkey regaining fitness
The Mirror
BYMARC ISAACS
18:52, 3 MAR 2017
West Ham United midfielder Gokhan Tore reveals his season has been wrecked by ONE of his own team-mates, but has vowed to come back even stronger and prove his critics wrong. Tore has suffered a nightmare spell in English football following his season long-loan from Besiktas last summer. The 25-year-old only started three Premier League games before he picked up a knee injury during training and has been forced to undergo surgery. Tore has now returned to Turkey where he is slowly building his way back to full fitness and says he will never forget the moment that one of his own team-mates accidentally collided with him in the build-up to the Crystal Palace game and ended his season. West Ham stewards will continue to use cameras at London Stadium as they prepare for Chelsea visit Tore said: " Slaven Bilic was always like my brother, a teacher I love so much, I also like working with him. "I was transferred to England at the beginning of the season. I picked up a knee injury in the pre-season camp in the summer which put me back 3-4 weeks from match form. "After that I made a great effort to return to the first team. I went on to play six matches but there was another problem. During the preparations for the Crystal Palace match I was injured three minutes before the end of my workout. "My team mate entered a tackle hard and I felt something in my knees. The doctors looked and decided to carry out surgery"
Tore is determined to regain the form which saw him break into the Turkey side and says he will return to Besiktas a much stronger player. Tore added: "I'm in the recovery process now. I want to try to get stronger. I want to see a better Gokhan Tore for the Turkish people. I will return stronger. "I am in Istanbul, I do my individual recovery here. I get up at 8am every day, I'm brushing my teeth, I am jogging, I am having breakfast. I go to the gym at noon. I see a physical therapist for four hours each day. I am riding a bike and building up stamina. "The treatment and recovery program is very busy for me. I go home afterwards when special physical treatment continues. Then I go to the movies and read books. Besiktas supporters make feel you are a very special player. I hope to return stronger for them. "I am in my own country, I speak Turkish. To speak English in the UK I needed an interpreter. I feel more comfortable here. I cannot wait to return (to Besiktas) I believe everything will be beautiful after the recovery of my heath first."
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West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic to be offered a new deal and the opportunity to splash some cash
West Ham are ready to back Slaven Bilic in the transfer market next summer
They want the Croat to bring European football to the London Stadium
Bilic impressed last summer with his handling of the Dimitri Payet transfer saga
By KIERAN GILL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 22:39, 3 March 2017 | UPDATED: 22:39, 3 March 2017
West Ham United will hand Slaven Bilic a new contract in the summer and are ready to back him in the transfer market in a bid to bring European football to the London Stadium. Bilic's current deal expires at the end of next season, but a two-year extension tying the Croat to West Ham until 2020 is in the pipeline.
Talks were due to be held in January but they were put back. The board and Bilic are in no rush to finalise terms, with results improving and pushing the Hammers into the top half of the table. Insiders say it is acknowledged West Ham's squad is not on a par with those of rival Premier League clubs targeting Europe and that they overachieved last season by finishing seventh and qualifying for the Europa League. This summer, though, West Ham are prepared to hand Bilic the funds to bridge that gap, with signing a striker their priority. The £20.5million deal to bring in Andre Ayew from Swansea last year was a club record but it is expected to be smashed in the search for a proven goalscorer. Bilic, who replaced Sam Allardyce in June 2015 on a three-year contract, gets on well with the West Ham board and was impressive in his handling of the Dimitri Payet saga. West Ham's suffered a poor start to the season but the former Croatia manager was never in any danger of the sack and he has steadied the ship. The Hammers sit ninth in the table and are preparing to play runaway league leaders Chelsea on Monday night. Gareth Southgate is expected at the London Stadium for the game, which will probably be the only one the England manager attends this weekend as he prepares to name his squad for this month's friendly in Germany and the World Cup qualifier against Lithuania. It gives Andy Carroll another chance to impress, but another England hopeful, Michail Antonio, is suspended following his red card at Watford last Saturday.
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Slaven Bilic says West Ham have done a 'great job' combating crowd trouble By PA Sport Last Updated: 03/03/17 12:08am SSN
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham have solved their crowd trouble issues ahead of Monday's match with Chelsea. The EFL Cup clash between the London rivals at the London Stadium in October was marred by coin throwing and fighting between rival fans. But moves to improve the segregation, policing and stewarding have meant that such ugly scenes have all but disappeared since that night. Vice-chairman Karren Brady has worked hard to put an end to disorder in the stands, and Bilic is confident she has succeeded. "It is not that I think it, it is definitely the truth," the Hammers manager said. "I have monthly meetings with Baroness Brady. "We have talked a lot about that and I know how much effort, through her of course, has been put into solving those problems. "She, or we, have done it, so I am not expecting [a repeat]. "Of course, there could be individual things that may happen, but the club has done a really great job regarding that. "They have approached it since that game really seriously. We have done it, yes."
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Why Kevin Malcuit is the perfect solution to Slaven Bilic's right-back problem at West Ham The St Etienne full-back is West Ham target as they look to sign a qualified option in the position and Andrew Gibney believes Malcuit fits the bill Football London BYANDREW GIBNEY 11:40, 3 MAR 2017UPDATED11:43, 3 MAR 2017
When AS Monaco were relegated to Ligue 2 in 2011, the whole team shifted in direction. Big stars moved on, the squad was ripped apart and a lot of the youth system were expected to sink or swim in the principality. Left-back Layvin Kurzawa flourished, on the other flank, Kévin Malcuit, went on loan to OC Vannes before moving locally to Fréjus-Saint-Raphaël. Just turned 21, he had to rebuild his career in the lower divisions, five years later he is looking set for a move to West Ham United or Manchester United in the summer.
Now 25 years old, the defender has paid his dues, climbing up the ladder with Chamois Niortais, before Saint-Étienne snapped him up in 2015. "In Fréjus, I learned about real life. I was away from one of the best training centres in France, where everyone was very attentive to me and where I could afford to only think about football," Malcuit admitted looking back on his early career. "In the National, it isn't as comfortable. Honestly, I needed that to bounce back. I got a good slap. This gave me strength and determination."
Saint Etienne defender Kevin Malcuit is reportedly close to agreeing a move to West Ham (Photo: PASCAL GUYOT/AFP/Getty Images) At the Stade Louis II, he managed 21 minutes of a Ligue 1 fixture against Toulouse in 2010, there would be a five-year gap before he featured at the top level again. He admitted that he needed that kick to get his career back on track, knowing that it wasn't a permanent drop, that he would make his return. Even when he joined Sainté, he wasn't Christophe Galtier's first-choice, not until this term has he convinced his coach that he can be trusted with the role. That doesn't mean he hadn't impressed. Whenever he was called upon, Malcuit was defensively sound, playing well against Paris Saint-Germain on several occasions. After nine appearances last season, he's made 19 this term, excelling regardless of whether it was 5-3-2 or 4-4-2. Playing against Manchester United, Les Stephanois may have lost the tie 4-0, but the right-back did enough to catch Jose Mourinho's attention and the Old Trafford boss is contemplating challenging the Hammers for his signature.
Slaven Bilic has used a few players on the right of the defence in the Premier League. From Håvard Nordtveit, Sam Byram and even midfielder, Cheikhou Kouyaté. It's an obvious problem area, so the continued link to Malcuit makes perfect sense. An eager attacker, the full-back is very good at getting up and down the flank, showing a fearlessness regardless of who they are playing. Malcuit has made more attempted tackles than anyone in the Hammers squad that has played in that role, plus the Frenchman has three assists this campaign. In Ligue 1, the 25-year-old is averaging 2.8 interceptions per 90 minutes, Nordtveit is up at 2.9 and Kouyaté is just behind on 2.6. Malcuit was quick enough to track the runs of Marcus Rashford and he's shown that side to his game a lot this season, able to read the game, he looks to get in the way of opposition passes, but always has the pace to get back and recovery. He has been successful with 2.7 of his 4.7 dribbles per 90 minutes this term, superb numbers for a full-back and testament to his attacking prowess. To compare, Dimitri Payet was completing successful in 2.8 of his 4.8 dribble attempts before moving to Marseille.
Contracted till 2019, Saint-Étienne already refused a €10 million bid in January and compared to what the likes of Benjamin Mendy, Jordan Amavi and Djibril Sidibe were all sold for recently, because he is older, the French club would be looking for around €12-15million in the summer. Maybe then, with a move to the Olympic Stadium, Malcuit can get revenge on Anthony Martial for when the fellow former Monegasque youngster draw blood when he smacked him with his arm at Old Trafford.
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West Ham will issue stewards with video cameras in bid to avoid potential fan trouble during Chelsea clash The Hammers will look to avoid scenes from the previous encounter between the sides in the EFL Cup last October The Mirror BYJACK RATHBORN 10:51, 3 MAR 2017
West Ham will provide stewards with video cameras for the London derby against Chelsea in a bid to avoid a repeat of fan trouble between sets of supporters. The London Stadium officials will be issued with handheld video cameras for the Monday night fixture after trouble erupted during the last meeting between the clubs. Hundreds of fans were seen launching bottles, seats and coins at each other during the EFL Cup tie last October. Seven arrests were made and 71 fans were subsequently banned from the Hammers' new home.
In addition to video cameras for stewards, the club will also introduce a larger segregation between supporters and clearer exit routes to avoid confrontation upon leaving the stadium. Manager Slaven Bilic has revealed that he has held monthly meetings with Baroness Brady in a bid to solve the issue. "I have monthly meetings with Baroness Brady. We have talked a lot and I know how much effort, through her of course, has been put into solving those problems," Bilic said. "We have done it so I am not expecting a repeat of the trouble. Of course there could be individual things that may happen but the club has done a really great job regarding that, they have approached it since that game really seriously."
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Exclusive: Michail Antonio's two word West Ham admission By James Jones - Mar 3, 2017 0
westhamworld.co.uk
West Ham fans love a hard worker, someone who gives everything to the cause at all times. So it's no real surprise that Michail Antonio has become one of the most loved players at West Ham since he arrived from Nottingham Forest 18 months ago. For Antonio, the £7m transfer to east London marked the latest chapter in what has been one of English football's less documented rags to riches stories. While Jamie Vardy had his six year journey from non-league Stocksbridge Park Steels to lifting the Premier League title with Leicester City, Antonio had his own story to tell.
In 2008 Antonio was turning out for Tooting & Mitcham United. Since then he has climbed the Football League ladder with the likes of Reading, Cheltenham Town, Southampton, Colchester United, Sheffield Wednesday and, of course, Nottingham Forest. It was his performances for Forest in the Championship that convinced Slaven Bilic that he was good enough to have his chance in the biggest league in the world. And after having to wait patiently for a real chance to show the Premier League what he has to offer, Michail Antonio has not looked back since being given his first start for the club four months after signing.
If you fast forward to today, it has been an incredible 18 months or so for Antonio. He has scored 17 goals in 65 first team appearances for the Hammers and was rewarded for such consistency with a first ever call-up to the England squad in August 2016.
It is fair to say that the forward is enjoying the best form of his career to date, and as I sit down to discuss life at the club with him as part of Heineken's HammerHeads competition at Rush Green, there are only two words Antonio has to describe what it's like playing for West Ham United.
"I'm home," he tells me, with a big grin on his face. It's an admission that every West Ham fan will be delighted to hear. Put simply, Antonio is one of the most effective players at the club right now. But as I mentioned earlier, his journey from new arrival to first name on the team sheet has not been easy for the 26-year-old. "It's difficult being a player that, for the last five or six years of my career, if I was fit I would have been playing," Antonio admits when I ask him about his first few months at the club.
"At clubs like Sheffield Wednesday, Nottingham Forest and Colchester, I always played. So coming here and not playing was quite difficult because it was new to me."
So, how does a player so used to playing every week adapt and remain focused on forcing his way in to the manager's plans? "I'm the kind of person who always believes in my ability, I believe in myself and I always told myself that if I ever get an opportunity, I'm going to take it. "I always knew I was good enough to play in the Premier League, that's what kept me going and what kept me motivated."
That self-belief and motivation has been evident to those who have seen Antonio turn out for the Hammers week in, week out. Having netted 17 goals for the club so far and currently topping the squad's scoring charts with eight in all competitions this season, Antonio has become a vital source of goals for Bilic's side. But how does a player who has played in a number of different positions for West Ham still manage to find his way on the scoresheet. "I just always want to get in the box," he tells me. "I'm the sort of player who always wants to be around the goal and more often than not, if you're in the box, the ball might drop for you. "It's one of those things where I'm always going to be there, I'm always going to make sure I'm around."
His goalscoring antics have been amplified somewhat by his fun and quirky celebrations. We all know the story behind why he celebrates goals the way he does, but the burning question I have to wrap up the short chat we had at Rush Green was; do you have another celebration lined up and can he tell us what it is? "Yeah, I have another one lined up but I'm not even giving you hint!"
It was the answer I was expecting, but you can't knock a guy for trying. Antonio hasn't scored since the 4-1 Boxing Day win over Swansea City but, given the season he's having, I don't think it'll be long before we see his next celebration in action.
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Aaron Cresswell: West Ham aren't going to 'pack our suitcases' and accept 10th place this season VAISHALI BHARDWAJ Evening Standard
Aaron Cresswell insists the West Ham players are not thinking about their summer break already, saying the Hammers will fight to finish in the top ten this season. Slaven Bilic's side have recovered from a poor start to the campaign in what is their first season at the London Stadium to lose just three of their last 12 Premier League games. The upturn in results since the beginning of December has lifted West Ham into ninth position in the league standings, with defender Winston Reid telling Standard Sport recently a ninth, eighth or seventh-placed finish this term would be "acceptable" considering the start the Hammers had.
Cresswell has echoed Reid's thoughts, admitting the team are working hard to ensure they end in the top 10 ahead of West Ham's London derby clash with Chelsea on Monday night. "We're not about to pack our suitcases, that's for sure," Cresswell told West Ham's official website. "With the lads we've got here, we're not going to rest on our laurels and accept tenth or twelfth position. "While there are points to play for, we'll give it everything we've got week-in, week-out and try to get as many points on the board as we can between now and 21 May."
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Slaven Bilic insists there will be no repeat of violent clashes between West Ham and Chelsea fans on Monday night The Hammers are ready to impose a raft of new measures to prevent a repeat of the trouble in Sky's live game next week The Mirror BYDARREN LEWIS 23:10, 2 MAR 2017
Slaven Bilic insists he is confident there will be no repeat of the violent clashes that marred West Ham's League Cup win over Chelsea on Monday night. Missiles — including seats, coins and bottles — were thrown by both hooligans within sets of fans towards the end of October 26 tie. Seven arrests were made on the night. Hammers officials have since worked with the police to identify 97 supporters through CCTV footage with banning orders imposed on them. The club are now ready to impose a raft of new measures to prevent a repeat of the trouble in Sky's live game next week. The fixture, at the 57,000-seater stadium, has been given the highest security category. Bilic said: "It is not that I think [there will not be a repeat], it is definitely the truth. "I have been spending a lot of time thinking about it. I have monthly meetings with Baroness Brady. "We have talked a lot about that and I know how much effort, through her of course, has been put in to solving those problems. "She or we have done it so I am not expecting (a repeat). Of course there could be individual things that may happen but the club has done a really great job regarding that. They have approached it since that game really seriously."
West Ham have drafted a 'five-point plan' which they hope will avoid a repeat of the appalling scenes. Stewards will be given hand-held cameras to film troublemakers. The segregation areas between rival fans will be widened and there will also be higher physical barriers between the home and away sections. Exit routes after the game will also be blocked off to keep rival factions apart after fights which followed the League Cup tie. Meanwhile Bilic is refusing to get carried away by suggestions he has done enough to earn a new deal at the London Stadium. The Croat has lost just one of his last six games, winning three, since seeing his side demolished 5-0 by Manchester City at home in the FA Cup. But Bilic used the sacking of Claudio Ranieri, dismissed a year after winning the League, to point out that no manager in football is ever safe. He said: "The last example of Ranieri is the biggest one or the best example. "If you asked anyone who has anything to do with football who had had the safest job before the season started?
"We would all say - 100% in all countries - Ranieri, Ranieri. But then what happened was that. So I'm not bothered about it, to be fair."
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Iron Men premiere review: The tales you didn't know about the Boleyn and even some booing for Payet Sam Inkersole assesses the new Iron Men film and what it means to Hammers fans following last night's premiere Football London BYSAM INKERSOLE 07:45, 3 MAR 2017UPDATED07:49, 3 MAR 2017
The media, West Ham players, staff and fans all descended on the Genesis Cinema in Mile End on Thursday for the anticipated premiere of Iron Men – the film documenting the final days of the Boleyn Ground and the move to the London Stadium. After the players were photographed hundreds of times – Jonathan Calleri looked like a rabbit in headlights and Pedro Obiang was the only player to bring his Mrs – and interviews with us press folk, the film got underway. The Oscars, this certainly was not. Immediately, we were greeted with the image of Ray Winstone in a car, wondering where the pub was he used to frequent, which is now a Tesco Express. Then, the first – and very loud – boos of the evening as we were treated to a close up of Dimitri Payet taking a set piece. Hisses were evident as well.
There was almost a tension around screen one as we looked back at the Boleyn Ground – first for the FA Cup tie quarter final replay with Manchester United. A game which Winstone describes as "s**t." Lots of Iron Men, particularly the opening moments, is dedicated to the traders who are losing out by the club moving. The man who sells the West Ham fanzine "Over Land and Sea" and has done for 40 years, Nathan's Pie and Eels in Green Street, "The Rib Man" Mark Gevaux, the sweet store seller outside Upton Park and The Boleyn pub.
We get up close and personal with David Gold, Mark Noble and Slaven Bilic. People who are media trained so even we don't get to see them up this close. "It's gonna be strange," says Noble, Bilic alludes to if he wanted to have the best atmosphere, he would remain at the Boleyn. "It's something we have to do, it is the future," adds Gold as he surveys where he grew up, where he then owned and where the club was moving to in one shot.
Slaven Bilic spoke about how he hopes to retain the Boleyn Ground atmosphere at the London Stadium (Photo: West Ham United FC) We then meet the star of the show, Hammers 100-year-old superfan Mabel Arnold, who went to her first game in east London in 1934.
As the documentary meanders towards that final game on May 7 against United, Mabel tells us West Ham are "doing her nut in" by moving to Stratford, Noble takes us to Canning Town where he grew up, Ray Winstone does likewise 1.5 miles from Upton Park. Karren Brady – such a divisive figure among West Ham fans – appears and she talks about the London Stadium. There are a few murmurs in the cinema, nothing more.
The documentary is trying to convince any remaining doubters that the move to E20 from E13 was the right thing to do, but there is always that lingering doubt that some are still not convinced. We reach the crescendo, that famous 3-2 win against United on that wet Monday night at the Boleyn. We see Winston Reid score the final goal, the cinema erupts in applause. We see Mabel Arnold, tears streaming down her face. It really was an emotional night.
The film ends with some captions telling us the man who sold the fanzine has kept his promise and not been to the London Stadium, Mabel has been to every home game in E20 and the Rib Man, Mr Gevaux, has moved too even though he wasn't sure if he'd make the trip.
"I am the Rib Man of West Ham," the man who lost his left leg in a car accident tells the camera. "I have a new home," he adds. Let's hope that West Ham United Football Club can truly make the London Stadium their home, just like the Boleyn was for those glorious 112 years.
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Nigel Reo-Coker concedes he learned to appreciate West Ham the hard way HITC Damien Lucas
Nigel Reo-Coker had a fractured relationship with West Ham United fans and has admitted he didn't appreciate the club while he was there. Reo-Coker came within minutes of eclipsing Hammers great Bobby Moore as the youngest captain in the club's history to lift the FA Cup. Steven Gerrard stole that honour away from him, though, in that epic final against Liverpool back in 2006 and the rest as they say is history. A firm favourite with Hammers fans, Reo-Coker enjoyed a memorable three and a half years in East London. But it ended somewhat acrimoniously as his relationship with the club's fans soured in the wake of suggestions from manager Alan Curbishley of a 'Baby Bentley Brigade' at the club during their fight against relegation.
Reo-Coker risked the wrath of supporters when he cupped his ear to the crowd after scoring at the Boleyn Ground. He moved on to Aston Villa after the club's Great Escape was sealed by Carlos Tevez in 2007 and was booed on his return. And in an interview with the whufc.com, Reo-Coker - now 32 and without a club - has conceded he did not appreciate what he had at West Ham until he left. "I can say this now because I've been away for a few years and I've travelled around a bit and been to different places – I truly realise how big and special this club is," Reo-Coker told West Ham TV. "It's the part of my career that has really stayed with me. It's something that I've never forgotten and it's something that I truly appreciate. "Everywhere I go, I'm always remembered and recognised from my time at West Ham. There have been so many Hammers fans I have met worldwide, and that's when you understand how big the fanbase is."
The former midfielder's words will not be lost on West Ham fans who appreciate what he did for the club during his time there. He was the club's brave young captain who helped lead them back to the Premier League under Alan Pardew and then onto a strong finish in the Premier League and that FA Cup final. That season also saw West Ham qualify for what was then the UEFA Cup, although their stay in the competition was shortlived after a heavy two-legged defeat to Palermo. Despite only being 32, Reo-Coker has been out of action for over a year after having his contract at Major League Soccer side Montreal Impact terminated by mutual consent in January 2016.
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