Daily WHUFC News - 8th March 2017

Snodgrass - It could have been different
WHUFC.com

Robert Snodgrass says West Ham United played well in defeat by leaders
Chelsea
Scotland midfielder pointed to missed chances and clinical finishing from
the Blues
No11 admitted Antonio Conte's side were a tough nut to crack after they went
in front

Robert Snodgrass says the Hammers can hold their heads high, despite going
down to a 2-1 Premier League defeat by Chelsea on Monday evening. West Ham
United more than held their own against the runaway league leaders, only for
goals either side of half-time from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa to leave
them with a mountain to climb. To their credit, the hosts stuck to their
task at London Stadium and were rewarded by Manuel Lanzini's added-time
goal, but it was too little, too late to prevent a well-drilled Chelsea side
from recording yet another top-flight victory. "They are a horrible team to
go behind against because, when they score first, it's programmed into their
strategy that they will be very hard to break down," the impressive
Snodgrass observed. "In the first half we started well, passed the ball and
created some decent chances and if we'd taken them it would have been a
different game, but that's why they are flying high at the top. They've got
a very good defensive record and at times, it was difficult to break them
down. "I thought we played quite well at times in the game, but they
punished us when they got the chance."

Chelsea's opener came when Lanzini's free-kick hit the wall and bounced to
Mark Noble. The captain shaped to cross, but was robbed of possession deep
inside the Chelsea half, only for the visitors to break 70 yards at speed
before Hazard rounded Darren Randolph to score. West Ham out-passed and
out-shot their opponents, but found it difficult to break down Antonio
Conte's well-organised side after falling behind. The mountain got even
steeper when Costa bundled in Cesc Fabregas's corner, which was
inadvertently flicked on by Pedro Obiang, and the Scotland international
paid a grudging respect to the way the Blues played out the final 40-odd
minutes.

Robert Snodgrass"They are obviously very good at counter-attacking and
sometimes when it's like that we could have maybe taken a foul on the
halfway line," Snodgrass conceded. "That said, they did really well to get
it forward so quickly. I thought we were the better team in the first half,
so to go in a goal behind was difficult to get back from. "When you see
Chelsea play week-in, week-out, they don't really concede and there is a
method behind that. You can see that when you play against them too, because
they put five behind the ball and defensively Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso
tuck in. We knew they'd do that. "It's frustrating because if we'd taken
those chances we created in the first half, it would have been a different
game."

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Stat's A Fact - 50 up for Lanzini
WHUFC.com

A goal and a great performance, just not the right result as West Ham
United's Manuel Lanzini made his 50th Premier League appearance for the
club. Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Diego Costa scored as the visitors went two
up, but it was Lanzini who got the Hammers' consolation goal to round off
what had been another impressive display by the Argentinian.

Lanzini's goal was a cool finish in to the bottom corner in added time at
the end of 90 minutes, and was his sixth in the current campaign.

In total, the Argentinian had four shots during the course of Monday night's
match, more than any player on the pitch and he also completed the most
amount of successful dribbles (three).

His 73 passes were completed at a success rate of 89 per cent: third-best
for the Hammers behind Mark Noble and Winston Reid (who both played fewer
minutes), and bettered only by N'Golo Kanté for the opponents.

Lanzini was a constant threat for the hard-working Hammers and his 97
touches reflect how his subtle movement consistently made him an open option
for his teammates- only deep-lying midfielders Pedro Obiang (108) and Cesc
Fabregas (99) made more touches.

Defensively, Manuel put in a shift as he made a total of four key
interceptions – again more than any player on the park. He also covered the
second-most amount of ground by a West Ham player at 11.84 km, with Robert
Snodgrass' 12.10 km topping the charts.

The Argentinian has been enjoying an excellent up-turn in form since the
turn of the year and is not just proving an instrumental link between the
Hammers' midfield and attack but has chipped with a goal or two as well!

Since joining the Hammers in August 2015, Lanzini has scored 12 Premier
League goals to date. Impressively, eight of those have come in London
derbies. Yesterday's finish was his second against Chelsea, after he scored
during the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge last March, whilst he has also netted
against capital counterparts Crystal Palace (four times) and Tottenham
Hotspur (twice).

Broken down, his 12 goals are made up of nine right-footed strikes and three
left-footed.

Monday night's strike was his third in the last four appearances at London
Stadium, highlighting the rich vein of form he is in.

It is not just goals however where Lanzini has been important in the big
games. He has grown in to being West Ham United's key creative outlet,
contributing assists and key passes at will.

There is no doubt that, if Lanzini can continue his recent form and deliver
more performances akin to Monday night's, the results will follow for West
Ham United. Next up for the Hammers, they visit Bournemouth's Vitality
Stadium – can the Argentinian make it goal number 13?

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London Stadium named Stadium of the Year
WHUFC.com

London Stadium has been named Stadium of the Year in a prestigious
competition voted for by a jury of five highly-respected architects
recognised for their work in stadium design.

In the award hosted by leading industry design magazine Stadium DB, West Ham
United's home pipped the Vodafone Arena in Istanbul and Stadium FK Krasnodar
in Russia to claim the top honour, selected from the best new stadia around
the world to have opened in the past 12 months.

Other stadiums around the world nominated included the much-heralded Hard
Rock Stadium in Miami, home of the Miami Dolphins NFL team, and the Allianz
Stadion in Austria, home of Rapid Vienna.

Following the 2012 Olympic Games, the Stadium underwent a multi-million
pound conversion to turn it into West Ham United's iconic new home, and that
vision and innovation has now been praised by industry experts from across
the globe.

In the voting, London Stadium was the only nominated venue to earn a maximum
mark of 10 in two of the three qualifying criteria - visual impact, relation
to surroundings and innovation.

In his summary, jury member Robert Mankin, who gave the London Stadium
conversion 10 out of 10 in innovation, said: "Although the conversion has
taken some time, this is an excellent case study for adaptation of an
Olympic legacy facility. The final result feels fresh and new, and the
integration into the surrounding park is quite well done."

Przemek Kaczkowski said: "Super-light cover structure, smart incorporation
of floodlighting and flexibility make it a spectacular masterpiece of
engineering. Interior view of the stadium is impressive and well
recognizable."

Since re-opening in its current design, London Stadium has quickly developed
its own history and has already played host to a number of impressive West
Ham United displays, including a night few will forget when the Hammers beat
Chelsea 2-1 to knock the Premier League leaders out of this season's EFL
Cup.

Not only that, but Andy Carroll scored one of the greatest Premier League
goals of all time on the turf of London Stadium in our 3-0 win over Crystal
Palace on January 14.

Hammers boss Slaven Bilic said: "It is fantastic for London Stadium to be
recognised in this way, and credit to the huge amount of hard work that has
gone into making West Ham United's home one of the most iconic and
recognisable venues in the world.

"With the third highest capacity in English football, we have a stadium that
truly reflects the ambition and potential of this great football club, and I
firmly believe that our supporters can look forward to a very exciting
future here."

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FT - West Ham United PL2 1-1 Stoke City
WHUFC.com

West Ham United PL2 1-1 Stoke City

FT: The referee calls full time on this one, and the Hammers settle for just
one point this evening. As dominant as they were, they couldn't breach the
Stoke defence for a second time, and it finishes 1-1. The draw does no harm
to their play-off chances, and we travel to Newcastle United on Monday in
hope of further increasing our chances of finishing in the top five. Over
and out from London Stadium.

90+1: Well, Fletcher might have! Knoyle plays a nice ball over the top into
the right hand side of the box for the striker but, heading to the byline,
the former Manchester United man fires into the side netting.

90: Four added minutes here at London Stadium. Stoke seem very happy with a
point, but can the Hammers snatch all three?

88: Holland plays in a teasing cross, and the keeper punches to Makasi on
the edge of the box, but the midfielder lashes a volley over.

85: Time's running out! The hosts continue with the pressure, but still
nothing to trouble Isted too much.

79: Chance for Fletcher! The forward is slipped in by Knoyle but can't find
the target from a tight angle. Double substitution for the Hammers now. Noha
Sylvestre and Grady Diangana come on to replace Masuaku and Fernandes.

76: Getting closer. The Hammers put together a couple of good attacks to win
two corners. Stoke clear both, but the pressure is on the visitors.

73: Nathan Holland tries his customary cut-in and shoot from the left once
again, but it flies a couple of yards wide.

68: Straight into the wall from the Norwegian.

67: Good chance this, for West Ham. A free-kick from about 25 yards out -
similar to Kemp's - but this time left of centre. Samuelsen and Holland are
behind this...

64: Phew. A real let-off for Moses Makasi. Turning inside his own penalty
area, the midfielder tries to play the ball back to keeper Trott but
inadvertently plays Devlin straight in on goal. Somehow, the forward misses
from six yards.

62: Decent strike by Jarvis from 25 yards, but again it doesn't trouble
Trott who catches the effort with ease. Both sides struggling to create any
real openings so far in this second period. Patience is key.

55: With Quina injured in that first half, Samuelsen is now the man behind
Fletcher and is looking to create things at every opportunity. Nothing quite
falling for him yet, however.

52: The Hammers have most certainly started the second half on top. Another
couple of chances come and go. First, Isted flaps a cross and Samuelsen gets
a chance to shoot, but it's well blocked. Then, Holland comes inside as he
loves to do and fires it just wide of the far post. Encouraging!

50: Great effort! Kemp takes and curls it towards the far post by Isted
leaps to his right to deny the winger.

49: Lewis Banks is booked for a foul on Kemp. Free-kick in a decent
position...

48: Early chance for Stoke to take the lead. Devlin gets to the byline and
pulls it back for Ngoy, and the forward stabs at goal but Trott juggles with
it on the line before getting it under control. Close call.

46: We're back underway at London Stadium. Let's make it two out of two
here! Come on you Irons!

HT: That's it for the first half. The Hammers dominated the majority of
that, but one costly error means it's level at the break. Work to do.

44: Close! Fernandes almost with an identical goal. He gets inside the box
to the right hand side and fires low across Isted, but this time the keeper
gets down well to turn it behind. A fantastic save.

43: West Ham have been playing with ten men for six minutes, but finally the
ball goes out and Kemp can be introduced.

40: Stoke build an attack almost immediately after and Jarvis gets a shot
away from just outside the penalty area, but Trott is right behind it.

39: On the pitch, the Hammers put together a nice move, but it results in
Knoyle slightly over-hitting a cross from the right. Unlucky.

37: That's game over for Domingos Quina. The Portuguese was on the end of a
strong challenge and limps off towards the bench. Dan Kemp is readying
himself.

35: City have been galvanised by that penalty. They almost score again as
first Devlin fails to covert a dangerous cross before Jarvis' effort from 12
yards is well blocked.

33: Extremely frustrating for West Ham to concede that equaliser. You rarely
see Declan Rice put a foot wrong at the back, but he got the wrong side of
Hill and definitely clipped the midfielder as he tried to nick the ball.

30: After picking up that knock, Edwards is going to be unable to continue
here. Andrew Cherdieu is his replacement at right-back.

27: Goal. Stoke's Julien Ngoy steps up to put it out of reach of Trott, to
the keeper's right.

26: Penalty for Stoke! Ryan Hill is tripped by Declan Rice and they have a
chance to equalise against the run of play.

25: Not far away! Masuaku lines up a shot from all of 30 yards, and despite
dipping as it neared the goal, it flies a couple of feet over. Why not have
a go!

24: Short stoppage in play as Edwards receives treatment after picking up a
knock. Still, the Hammers are on top. They'll want to capitalise on this and
try to add a second before the break.

18: Masuaku is looking really sharp tonight. The Frenchman bursts forward
again and makes his way into the box and towards the byline, by Stoke get
the tackle in to clear for a corner. The visitors get rid of the set piece.

14: The pressure continues from the hosts. Masuaku works space for a cross
on the left and, firing across into the box, finds Fletcher. It came at the
big man too fast however, and he can't direct it goalwards.

14: Cynical challenge from Ryan Hill as he brings down the onrushing Quina.
Yellow card for the Potters man.

13: Nathan Holland has his first chance to race beyond the back four, but as
he bears down on goal, Edwards does well to make the challenge and play the
ball against the winger for a goal kick.

12: The Hammers look dangerous going forward. Quina, Holland and Samuelsen
are tonight complimented by the attacking first team talents Fernandes and
left-back Masuaku and Stoke look worried.

9: Stoke, after falling behind, finally build an attack but the deep cross
could not be diverted back into the box by Jack Devlin. West Ham in control
having taken the lead.

5: GOOOOALLLLLLL! A brilliant start for the hosts as Edimilson Fernandes
finds the back of the net! Ashley Fletcher did brilliantly to hold up a long
ball and play in a superb reverse pass, and the Swiss midfielder - who
appeared as a sub against Chelsea last night - fired low beyond Isted in
goal. Great stuff!

4: It's been a real battle in these opening few minutes. Moses Makasi and
Edimilson Fernandes are doing their best to assert themselves on the match,
but Stoke are getting men behind the ball well.

1: We're underway at London Stadium in Premier League 2!

6:58pm: Bubbles rings out around London Stadium as skipper Declan Rice leads
the Hammers out. Come on you Irons!

6:45pm: The Hammers beat Stoke 3-0 earlier this season, so they should take
confidence from that early victory. Ashley Fletcher, who starts tonight,
also scored in that fixture. Not long until kick-off at London Stadium!

PL2: Trott, Knoyle, Pask, Rice, Masuaku (Sylvestre 79), Makasi, Fernandes
(Diangana 79), Samuelsen, Quina (Kemp 43), Holland, Fletcher.

Subs not used: Matrevics, Powell.

Goals: Fernandes 5

Stoke City: Isted, Edwards (Cherdieu 30), Kelly, Lecygne, Read, Banks, Ogle,
Hill, Devlin, Jarvis, Ngoy.

Subs not used: Allen, Karamoko, Balde, Da Silva Monteiro.

Goals: Ngoy (pen) 27

Bookings: Hill 14

6pm: Good evening! Tonight, we're live from London Stadium as the young
Hammers take on Stoke City in their second Premier League 2 clash of the
season. They were victorious against Fulham here a fortnight ago, so can
they make it two out of two at the Club's new home? With the table looking
as below before kick-off, the Hammers currently sit in the final play-off
spot and will be hoping to strengthen their position to finish in the top
five with a win this evening. Team news to follow shortly.

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The Big Interview - Darren Randolph
WHUFC.com

Darren Randolph felt West Ham United gave a good account of themselves
against Premier League leaders Chelsea on Monday night and were unfortunate
to go down to a 2-1 defeat.

The Hammers face Bournemouth next down on the South Coast on Monday and the
Republic of Ireland No1 is sure they can bounce back to set themselves up
for a strong end to the campaign.

Darren, unlucky on Monday with a 2-1 loss. Were you disappointed not to
build on a good start and not take something from the game?

DR: "We started the game very well and stuck to the gameplan, and then
conceded the goal when we had the ball. It was always going to be hard from
there.

"They didn't have too many chances, but when you play the top teams they are
clinical when they get their chances.

You made some telling saves, but none better than the one to deny Costa in
the second half?

DR: "It was probably my best one of the game, but it would have been nicer
to make it if we were winning 1-0 instead of being behind."

You've played most of the top teams here now. Of all those who have come
here, others may have won by bigger margins, but have Chelsea impressed you
the most?

DR: "Yes. They are a good side and are top of the league for a reason.
They're well-organised defensively and quick on the break. They broke on us
a few times in the game, changing defence into attack in just about ten
seconds and we knew it would be tough because they are a top team."

Bournemouth next, where last season you'll have happy memories of winning...

DR: "It will be another tough game for us. It's not the easiest of places to
go, but we want to end the season strongly. We've worked hard to get
ourselves out of the position we were in and we don't want to let that fade
away."

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Manning – We have three big games left
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Premier League 2 recorded a 1-1 draw with Stoke City at
London Stadium on Tuesday night
Assistant boss Liam Manning looked immediately ahead to the final three
league fixtures after the draw
The youngsters are still hoping to claim a play-off spot in the division

West Ham United Academy coach Liam Manning highlighted the importance of the
U23s' last three Premier League 2 matches after a 1-1 draw with Stoke City
on Tuesday night at London Stadium.

The young Hammers are hoping to finish in a play-off spot in the division
but know they need some positive results when they face a trio of Newcastle
United, Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion before the season ends.

Terry Westley's team – in the top five now – are currently three points
ahead of sixth-placed Aston Villa.

And after the London Stadium draw, Manning's focus immediately switched to
Monday's clash with the Magpies.

He said: "We need to pick up some results in the last three games to get in
the play-offs and the pleasing thing is we have three games in three
stadiums; Newcastle on Monday at St. James', back here against Middlesbrough
and then away to West Brom at the Hawthorns.

"They're really good experiences for the boys and hopefully we can kick on
and finish in that top five.

"We look at tonight's game at a development point of view, and we link that
to winning and we obviously want to win games, but it's a really good
experience for the boys tonight to come up against a different challenge.

"They were very organised and efficient at what they did so it was
difficult."

"Hopefully we can kick on and finish in that top five. The point is
definitely another step towards finishing in the play-offs."
Liam Manning
363Stoke put men behind the ball after equalising through Julien Ngoy from
the penalty spot following Declan Rice's foul on Ryan Hill.

Edimilson Fernandes, who played 15 minutes at the end of the first team's
Premier League fixture against Chelsea the night before, had opened the
scoring with a tidy finish with five minutes on the clock.

"The point is definitely another step towards finishing in the play-offs,"
Manning continued. "We said to the boys before and at half time, you go a
goal up, that should be it. You should win 1-0, so we're slightly
disappointed.

"But stepping away from the actual result and looking at the bigger picture,
I think we've learned a lot from tonight in terms of the style of the
opposition and how to deal with that. We couldn't quite break them down.

"There are a few teams who have been successful right now in the Premier
League [doing what Stoke did], so it's good for the boys to experience that.
It's another experience that allows them to be able to deal with it later on
in their career."

The assistant boss was also pleased with the attitude shown by the likes of
Fernandes, Ashley Fletcher and Arthur Masuaku who dropped down to play for
the youngsters.

"The first team players who came into the side did well. It highlights that
they need to play football regularly in order to stay on top of your match
fitness.

"You can train every day and do that element but you need games in your legs
to be able to perform, because it's completely different to training.

"They did well, their attitudes were good and they worked hard and did their
best."

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REF ANALYSIS – ANDRE MARRINER
BY BRIAN KNOX ON 6 MARCH 2017 AT 10:23PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @SamRoyden
After a hard point away to Watford, we welcomed Chelsea who were 7 points
clear of the Premier League before kick off. The West London rivals seem to
be unstoppable so far this season but a visit to the London Stadium
shouldn't be a walk in the park. West Ham beat Chelsea in the League Cup at
the London Stadium back in October last year when crowd trouble dominated
the headlines. The referee appointed for this London derby was Andre
Marriner. The last game Marriner officiated West Ham was in a convincing
away win away at Swansea.

An incident free half for Andre Marriner and officiated well with common
sense and control. Marriner had to deal with two early fouls on Eden Hazard,
who is the most fouled player in the league. Nothing more than a foul and a
free kick against both Kouyaté and Obiang. Even though the first half was
too aggressive, Marriner officiated sensibly and not branded out his yellow
cards unnecessarily.

As good as he is, Cheikhou Kouyaté can be clumsy at times and especially
with his tackling when he is under pressure. Kouyaté was spoken to on a
couple of occasions by Marriner and got a final warning in the 32rd minute
after Marriner called over captain Mark Noble for his third foul of the
game. Not every foul is deemed to be a yellow card, if the challenge is
careless, with no attempt to hurt or injure the opponent, it's simply just a
foul and no action needs to be taken. A lot of elite referees rely on their
cards to impose punishment to show control but I admire Marriner's first
half performance and his player management.

There was only one booking in the first half that came just before half time
for Chelsea's Cesc Fàbregas. The Chelsea man blocked Aaron Cresswell, who
was steaming forward to an advance performance and this type of foul is
always going to result in a yellow card.

I felt that Andre Marriner was nearly faultless throughout the game.
Marriner did exactly what I would expect of a referee of a Premier League
calibre to do and allowed play to flow, played advantage well and stepped in
where he needed too.

Marriner had a big call to make in the second half when he had to determine
whether there was a deliberate handball inside Chelsea's penalty area by
Cesc Fàbregas. Even though Fabregas' arm was by his side when the ball hit
him, it appeared Fabregas made an obvious movement with his arm towards the
ball. Marriner was in a good position to see whether the ball hit his
shoulder or lower arm. Marriner waved away appeals from West Ham but if it
was handball, it would be a penalty to West Ham and potentially his second
booking of the game for Fabregas.

Overall, I had no complaints about Marriner's performance. He's one of the
better referees in the league and officiating a London derby is always going
to be difficult but he controlled the game brilliantly. It was evident that
the game wasn't ugly in terms of challenges or behaviour with only one
yellow card during the game. It's a shame that sloppy errors by West Ham
lead to the two Chelsea goals for Hazard and Costa. Our next game is away to
Bournemouth on Saturday and with teams winning below us, we need to reach
that magic 40 points sooner rather than later.

Thanks,
Sam

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Sullivan: we're only a couple of players short
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 7th March 2017
By: Staff Writer

Co-owner David Sullivan insists that West Ham are "only a couple of players
short" of a "very, very good side". Little more than a month after the last
transfer window closed, Sullivan admitted that Slavan Bilic's first team
squad will need a boost in the summer - before once again reiterating that
he will be working "extremely hard" in the summer to address any
shortcomings.

Speaking in the wake of West Ham's 2-1 defeat at home to Chelsea - a result
that means the Hammers have now lost as many Premier League matches in the
Olympic Stadium as they've won (five wins, five defeats) - Sullivan began
his summer charm offensive early as he spoke about the need to invest.

"Chelsea took more chances than us, but our ability to compete with them is
a sign that the gap is closing and we are not far away from beating the top
sides," claimed Sullivan. "I believe we are only a couple of players short
of having a very, very good side, and I can promise that we will be working
extremely hard again in the summer to achieve that objective."

Yet despite the defeat, Sullivan remained optimistic that West Ham will
emulate their trip to Dean Court last season when they tackle Bouremouth on
the South Coast this weekend. "There is no reason to believe that we won't
bounce back and enjoy a repeat of our memorable victory at the Vitality
Stadium last season," he said. "Our away record since Christmas has been
excellent, with three wins and a draw from five matches on our travels, and
11 goals scored. "We also have Michail Antonio available again after
suspension and a victory will take us back into the top half of the table
above Southampton, who are not in action."

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Three nicked on quiet night for Met
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 7th March 2017
By: Staff Writer

There were a total of three arrests made by Met Police during last night's
Premier League clash with Chelsea. There were to be no repeat scenes of
small children claiming to have been pelted with missiles as the second
London derby between West Ham and Chelsea to be staged at the OS passed
virtually without incident. Just three individuals were arrested on the
night for related incidents; one for assault, one for being in possession of
pyrotechnics and a third for trespassing. The latter, a 51-year-old man has
already been bailed to appear in court two weeks' hence.
Chelsea went on to win the game 2-1 through goals from Eden Hazard and Diego
Costa; West Ham's reply coming courtesy of Manuel Lanzini.

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Done with West Ham London
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 7th March 2017
By: Smudger1

Well, I certainly didn't expect to be writing this prior to last night's
game.

There have been and continue to be issues at and with the London Stadium.
All eight members of my small group have been torn about - and definitely
lean towards - not renewing our tickets for next season but that isn't
solely a stadium issue, although clearly it doesn't help.

Sadly, I have to report that once again the entry security checks are not
worthy of the name; my wife was waived through again last night as "we can't
touch her" and only the sleeves of the coats of the gentleman in our party
patted down.

A salient lesson to anyone seeking to enter with 'contraband' - even if it's
only bottle tops, get ladies to carry them.

I don't know how much the cost of security is at the ground but we, LS185,
the club (and indeed the taxpayer) are being ripped off. Lip service is
being paid to security, God forbid that a serious incident (let alone
terrorist incident) occurs; somebody has the potential for blood on their
hands here.

I've emailed stadium operators LS185 on a couple of occasions about events
this season pertaining to issues of security and stewarding. Below is a
response I received from Peter Smith, the Stadium Safety Officer:

"Whilst I do not feel that I can comment on specifics, I can tell you that
all of our turnstile staff that engage in turnstile searching are
independently licenced by the Security Industry Authority.

With reference to identification of our staff, all of our uniform wear for
stewards carries a unique identification number and are compliant with the
recommendations of the Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds.

"We continue to strive to eliminate abuses of ground regulations and
offenders who continue to flout the law in respect of smoking and the
consumption of alcohol. LS185 along with West Ham United continue to take
action to identify offenders and have with the support of the Metropolitan
police prosecuted and successfully banned a number of offenders."

With regards to the Mr Smith's final comment, sadly there are a group of
attendees - I'm not willing to call them fans or supporters - who are more
interested in drinking and smoking in their seats, causing aggravation,
being abusive to those around them and generally acting like 'Football
Factory' wannabes.

Last night some of the group members were sitting in Block 141, however they
are part of a larger group who interchange seats on a regular basis
including mid-game.

I personally do not have a problem with drinking in view of the pitch - we
generally seem to manage quite well at rugby, cricket and gigs, after all -
however it is indicative of the general apathy of stadium operators that
this occurs in full view of the stewards with no action.

At last night's game, a full pint of beer was thrown at the Chelsea players
celebrating Eden Hazard's opening goal by one the group in question.

The behaviour of these individuals has continued to deteriorate over time
but a polite request for them to sit down last night was meet with a volley
of abuse and threats. An explanation that they were blocking the view of a
72-year-old disabled fan was greeted with "well that's his fucking problem".


A former work colleague a couple of rows behind us was assaulted as the
group left the ground early for having dared to try and intercede. All of
this in full view of the non-responsive stewards at the top and bottom of
the aisle.

Not that I particularly blame the individual stewards as pubescent
adolescents might be a better description, although I'm sure our child
labour legislation would preclude that; however no call to, or arrival of
any of the response teams to either incident is clearly unacceptable.

I do not attend matches to have a fight with random, abusive drunks. I'm
just there to watch a game of football - and so is my family. My father, a
disabled fan of 72 and my wife were both very upset at the whole incident
and the increasingly toxic atmosphere generally.

I was unexpectedly unable to attend the recent Crystal Palace fixture at the
last minute and my 14-year-old niece was desperate to go in my place - but
how in good conscience could I expose her to these Neanderthals? My former
colleague faces a similar dilemma for the Leicester City game, yet another
empty seat no doubt.

Having listened to Ray Winston state in 'Iron Men' that "the London Stadium
is not about us, it's about our kids" and Lady Brady saying the club has "a
responsibility to the fans", I thought it might just be me. Seriously Ray,
come down out of the lounge and join the working man; I have some tickets
going spare.

And Karren? You failed. Nothing more than that needs to be said.

Yes, it's football and not opera but we're in the 21st century now, not some
romanticised version of the 1970s as some would have us believe. I have
travelled home and away to hundreds of games to see my beloved Irons
including visits to the Den, the old as well as the new. I know what it was
like, been there, got the t-shirt etc.

To be told today that "I worried about you going to football for years but
the last decade has been stress free, after last night, please tell me
you're not going anymore". To have a wife in tears saying "I hate it, I feel
really afraid, please don't go because if you do I'll have to go too to make
sure you're ok".

It's a very sad state of affairs that after 65 years' regular attendance for
my father and 70 odd for the other three adults in our group (including
about 80 as season ticket holders, I'm not counting the teenagers amongst
us) we do not feel sufficiently secure. Therefore we will no longer be
attending the London Stadium.

There's a lot wrong with the club right now, despite all the glitzy logos
and flash bullshit. If they want this type of fan, then they are welcome to
them. For now, I'm done.

Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
OS named as Stadium of the Year
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 7th March 2017
By: Staff Writer

It may have been beset by problems on the inside since West Ham United moved
to Stratford last summer - but the Olympic Stadium has been named as Stadium
of the Year.

The much-maligned arena, which cost in the region of £800million to build
was this afternoon named as Stadium of the Year after beating off
competition from 28 other nominees.

However even the organisers, Stadium DB, appeared to recognise that the news
might come as a surprise to the thousands of West Ham supporters who flock
to the stadium on a regular basis.

"We can already imagine the shock on some West Ham fans' faces," read a
statement confirming the news.

"Yes, their transition from Upton Park to London Stadium hasn't been going
smoothly (to put it mildly). But our Jury evaluated London Stadium from a
different perspective, judging the challenge posed by transition from
athletics to Premier League football.

"We kept in mind that the conversion after 2012 Olympics was done contrary
to initial legacy plans and making a proper football stadium out of the
Olympic venue was a tremendous task, if possible. The execution earned
London Stadium its top spot!"

The list of nominees - which includes all modern stadia opened to the public
during 2016 - was selected by a panel of five accomplished architects
including Peter Bordas (Hungary), Przemek Kaczkowski (Poland), Mårten
Leringe (Sweden), Robert Mankin (USA) and Andy Simons (England).

The ten stadia selected for the final were as follows:

* Allianz Stadion (Vienna, Austria): SK Rapid
* Cape Coast Stadium (Cape Coast, Ghana): Ebusua Dwarfs
* Dacia Arena (Udinese, Italy): Udinese
* Hard Rock Stadium (Miami, USA): Miami Dolphins
* Medical Park Arena (Trabzon, Turkey): Trabzonspor
* Olympic Stadium (Stratford, London): West Ham Utd
* Sivas Arena (Sivas, Turkey): Sivasspor
* Stadion FK Krasnodar (Krasnodar, Russia): FK Krasnodar
* Stadion Miejski (Bielsko-Biala, Poland): BKS Stal, Podbeskidzie
* Vodafone Arena (Istanbul, Turtkey): Besiktas
Read more at http://kumb.com/story.php?id=131050#0Kb2VdmTkWIDoGKL.99

'Stadium of the Year' is a non-commercial competition launched seven years
ago by websites Stadiony.net and StadiumDB.com, both of whom specialise in
football stadiums. It is the largest open vote of its kind.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Football Association to 'seek observations' over West Ham pitch invader
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 07/03/17 5:15pm
SSN

The Football Association will "seek observations" from West Ham after a fan
entered the field of play during the clash with Chelsea, Sky sources
understand.

Ian Crouch, 51, attempted to confront Chelsea's Eden Hazard after the
Belgium international gave Chelsea the lead at the London Stadium.

Crouch invader was held back by stadium security guards and marched out of
the stadium before being one of three arrests made on the night.

He has been bailed to appear at Thames Magistrates Court on March 21.

Two further supporters were also arrested - a 51-year-old who accepted a
caution for common assault and Jamie Oliva, 18, who was charged with
attempting to enter the stadium whilst in possession of a flare.

Oliva has also been bailed to appear at Thames Magistrates Court later this
month.

The Metropolitan Police had put a "robust" security plan in place for the
match in the wake of ugly scenes at the EFL Cup fourth-round tie between the
two sides in October.

There was trouble inside and outside the ground before that game, with coins
and other missiles being thrown as tensions boiled over as the final whistle
approached.

But both sets of fans were thanked for their "fantastic support" on Monday
night by the Met Police on Twitter, where they further reported there had
been no other major security issues.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arrested West Ham fan "faces lifetime ban" following confrontation with
Chelsea players
The Hammers fan will appear in court on March 21 after he raced onto the
pitch following Eden Hazard's opening goal for Chelsea during the big London
derby
The Mirror
BYMARC ISAACS
16:36, 7 MAR 2017UPDATED16:38, 7 MAR 2017

A West Ham fan who ran onto the pitch to confront the Chelsea players on
Monday night has been arrested and is set to face a lifetime ban from London
Stadium if found guilty.

Ian Paul Crouch, 51, has been bailed to appear at court in two weeks' time.

If the magistrates find him guilty of the criminal offence, the Hammers will
take the strongest possible action and ban him from the ground as they look
to stamp out any further trouble taking place inside the Stadium.

The incident took place after Eden Hazard had fired the Premier League
leaders into the lead and ran towards the West Ham fans to celebrate.

Crouch climbed over the advertising hoardings and got to within a few feet
of Hazard and his team-mates who were celebrating the opening goal.

David Luiz had to step in and help stewards, before making a thumbs up
gesture as they took the fan away.

The Metropolitan Police took immediate action against the West Ham supporter
and said in a statement: 'Three people were arrested in connection with last
night's match between West Ham and Chelsea in Stratford.

'A 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of pitch encroachment. Ian Paul
Crouch, was subsequently charged with going on to an area adjacent to the
playing area under sections 4 and 5 of the Football Offences Act 1991. He
has been bailed to appear at Thames Magistrates' Court on 21 March.

'[In addition] A 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of common
assault. An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempting to enter
a stadium whilst in possession of a flare.

'Both remain in police custody at this time at east London police stations,
and enquiries continue.'

West Ham have taken strong steps to avoid any repeat of the crowd trouble
which marred the EFL Cup meeting between the two clubs back in October when
rival supporters threw coins, bottle and seats at each other and will
continue to provide stewards with video cameras.

The Hammers had nine incident free games heading into the big London derby
on Monday night and although there will be concerns over the fan entering
the field of play, they will be pleased that the game passed off without a
major incident taking place.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How Manuel Lanzini has evolved after the departure of Dimitri Payet from
West Ham
The 24-year-old has upped his game massively in the last few weeks
Football London
BYADAM JONES
11:43, 7 MAR 2017

West Ham fans have probably all but forgotten about the influence of Dimitri
Payet now thanks to one man - Manuel Lanzini. The 24-year-old has seriously
stepped up his game since the departure of the French international and has
been seeing a lot more time in the centre of the pitch rather than out wide.
And it's clear to see that he is definitely seeing some major benefits. The
stats show just how much Lanzini has improved his game since the departure
of the French international. In the seven matches since Payet left the
London Stadium, the Argentine has already managed the same amount of goals
than he did in the 17 games before his former teammates last match. It
doesn't stop there either - Lanzini has managed two assists in those seven
games since Payet left West Ham, but hadn't managed any whilst the French
international was still at the club. The attacking midfielder has been
involved in a goal every 114 minutes of action he has played in the last
seven games - compared to every 384 minutes in the previous 17. Even simple
things such as Lanzini's passing accuracy have improved since Dimitri Payet
was sold back to Marseille. The Argentine was already completing an
impressive 85.9% of his passes, but he has seen that improve to 88.4% in the
last seven fixtures. Granted Lanzini is now playing, on average, four less
passes per 90 minutes - but surely that just shows that he is honing his
skills? These stats just serve to prove what many West Ham fans already know
- Manuel Lanzini has massively stepped up since the departure of Dimitri
Payet.
And long may that continue.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United's Jose Fonte opens up on Southampton exit 'lies'Featured
Image
Date: 7th March 2017 at 1:12pm
Written by: Justin Mottershead
shoot.co.uk

Jose Fonte has claimed he's been unfairly portrayed as the bad guy by former
club Southampton over his transfer to West Ham United, according to Sky
Sports. The Portuguese defender left St Mary's Stadium in the January
transfer window for the London Stadium, a move which caused the 33-year-old
to come under fire from many Saints fans who felt he left the club in the
lurch and short of defensive options for the EFL Cup final, especially after
injury to Virgil van Dijk. Fonte said, "I spoke to the club [after winning
Euro 2016] and said there could be possibilities [to move] and I would like
the club to consider it. "In the summer there were possibilities of leaving
– that is 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 is a lie. And also that I refused to train and I
wasn't being a good captain? That is a complete lie. "I have always given my
best to that club. That is the main thing the fans should know."

Fonte got off to a poor start at West Ham with his side being battered 4-0
at home to Manchester City in his first game, which also saw the defender
concede a penalty. Since then, things have improved despite last night's 2-1
defeat to Chelsea, Southampton of course went on to lose the League Cup
final 3-2, but have seen some improvements in their league form with
back-to-back wins.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham ready to offer Liverpool's £18m target Pedro Obiang a new
contractFeatured Image
Date: 7th March 2017 at 12:12pm
Written by: Justin Mottershead
shoot.co.uk

Spanish midfielder Pedro Obiang will be offered a new deal by West Ham
United this summer to fend off interest from Liverpool, report Sky Sports.
The Hammers signed Obiang from Sampdoria two years ago on a four-year deal
and are ready to extend that contract as Liverpool continue to be linked
with a bid in the region of £18m. Obiang has enjoyed an impressive campaign
as West Ham have put early season inconsistency behind them and are managing
a mid-table position in the top-flight. Last night saw West Ham lose 2-1 at
home to Chelsea as the visitors took another step closer to the title,
despite the best efforts of Obiang and his team-mates, a result that leaves
The Hammers in thirteenth spot. Obiang, 24, has become a regular starter
this season, which has caught the eye of Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, following
an indifferent campaign last season which saw him in and out of Slaven
Bilic's side and the manager is keen to make sure the midfielder stays at
London Stadium.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fan who ran onto the pitch to confront celebrating Chelsea players
during Premier League clash is arrested as club push for ban
51-year-old man arrested after entering the pitch to confront Chelsea
players
The West Ham supporter got to within a few feet of the celebrating players
He was eventually tackled by stewards and ushered away during the Chelsea
win
West Ham implemented a five-point security plan for the Premier League clash
By Adam Shergold for MailOnline and Andy Sims, Press Association Sport
PUBLISHED: 12:36, 7 March 2017 | UPDATED: 12:49, 7 March 2017

A West Ham supporter who ran onto the pitch to confront celebrating Chelsea
players during Monday night's match at the London Stadium has been arrested.
Ian Paul Crouch, 51, has been bailed to appear at court in two weeks' time,
with West Ham likely to press for ban from all football stadiums around the
country. The incident occurred after Eden Hazard had fired the Blues into a
25th-minute lead.
The fan - who emerged from the home end - climbed over the advertising
hoardings and got to within a few feet of Hazard and his team-mates as they
celebrated, before he was tackled by stewards and led away. The EFL Cup
meeting between the teams in October was marred by crowd trouble when rival
supporters threw coins, bottles and seats at each other. While there was no
sign of a repeat of those ugly scenes, the security breach will be another
major concern to those in charge at the London Stadium. The Metropolitan
Police said in a statement: 'Three people were arrested in connection with
last night's match between West Ham and Chelsea in Stratford. 'A 51-year-old
man was arrested on suspicion of pitch encroachment. Ian Paul Crouch
(12.10.1965) of Corringham, was subsequently charged with going on to an
area adjacent to the playing area under sections 4 and 5 of the Football
Offences Act 1991. He has been bailed to appear at Thames Magistrates' Court
on 21 March. '[In addition] A 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of
common assault. An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempting
to enter a stadium whilst in possession of a flare. 'Both remain in police
custody at this time at east London police stations, and enquiries
continue.'
Another fan was ejected from in front of where the Chelsea supporters were
housed as the game approached stoppage time, but the match otherwise passed
off peacefully. West Ham had implemented a robust five-point security plan
since Chelsea's last visit, when seven fans were arrested on the night. The
segregation area between rival supporters was widened, with a physical
barrier also put in place, along with a 10-metre 'sterile' area as well as
new measures to keep rival fans apart after the game. Stewards have been
issued with handheld video cameras to help identify troublemakers, while a
'no tolerance' banning order policy is in place for anyone found guilty of
offences ranging from abusive and offensive language to missile throwing. So
far this season West Ham have banned 97 fans. The measures seemed to have
had the desired affect as, barring those two isolated incidents, there was
no hint of crowd trouble.
Chelsea eventually ran out 2-1 winners, with Diego Costa doubling their lead
before Manuel Lanzini netted a consolation in stoppage time.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Chelsea have got everything' - West Ham boss Slaven Bilic in awe of Premier
League leaders
SAM LONG
Evening Standard

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic believes Chelsea "have got everything" after
watching his side suffer a 2-1 defeat against the Premier League leaders
last night. Eden Hazard and Diego Costa were on target for the Blues before
Manuel Lanzini slotted home what proved to be a consolation goal in injury
time. Antonio Conte's side are now 10 points clear at the top of the table
and are closing in on their fifth title of the modern era. The Hammers were
forced to be second best for the majority of the encounter at the London
Stadium as Bilic's players - like many teams in the division - struggled to
counteract Chelsea's 3-4-3 formation. And the Croatian was full of praise
for the west Londoners, whom he does not expect to slip up during the
run-in. "They have everything," Bilic told West Ham's official website.
"They are really good. From all the top teams, they are very solid and they
defend all the time with numbers. "Some of the combinations they make are
amazing and they have the quality and are solid as a unit. They're a very
fit which makes it difficult also. "We knew Chelsea are where they are for a
reason," he added. Chelsea excel in all departments but the speed of their
counter attack proved to be particularly difficult for the hosts to deal
with. Hazard's opening goal was a direct result of the pace Chelsea possess
and Bilic was not surprised West Ham's errors were punished. "Mark [Noble]
wanted to play with the best intentions, but you expect your players to run
back with more reason in this situation. "They got the ball in space where
we can't afford to give it, especially against them because their pace in
the transition is scary," Bilic insisted.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio Conte's soak up and swamp tactics triumph as West Ham aerial blitz
fails
Evening Standard

How do you beat Chelsea? How do you stop the runaway leaders of the Premier
League? Slaven Bilic had a plan last night at the London Stadium and the
West Ham manager had good reason to feel confident. The Hammers stunned
Antonio Conte's team in the EFL Cup in October, winning 2-1 on a feverish
night in Stratford. Bilic's strategy was simple: use the space behind
Marcos Alonso and Victor Moses, Chelsea's wing-backs, and ping crosses
towards the head of Andy Carroll. It was meant to test the discipline and
concentration of Conte's three centre-backs, to see if they could maintain
their blitz spirit on a night of aerial bombardment in the East End.

For the first quarter of the game, it seemed to work. Chelsea were pinned
back and struggled to find a comfort zone as the crosses rained in. Conte's
champions-elect showed no ambition except to survive. And then it happened.
Mark Noble spurned a chance to cross from deep, Robert Snodgrass allowed
N'Golo Kante to steal possession and Chelsea were on their way. Eden Hazard
and Pedro charged forward, exchanging passes, before the Spaniard released
his team-mate with a deft ball. Hazard scored and Bilic's plans were left in
ruins.

West Ham's pressure had come to nothing. It was suddenly clear that
Chelsea's backs-to-the-wall defending was something entirely different. They
invited the home side to push on to them and when eight West Ham players got
caught behind the ball, Hazard and Pedro flicked into overdrive. It would
happen again and again.

It was reminiscent of judo, where fighters use their opponents' weight and
clumsiness to unbalance them. Chelsea matched their nimbleness against West
Ham's brute strength and Bilic's team stumbled into the trap.

Conte's side could have had a handful of goals from counter-attacks. Indeed,
the corner that led to Diego Costa doubling the score was generated by a
quick break. It must have added to Bilic's pain that the second goal should
come from a set-piece as the ball skidded off Pedro Obiang's head on to
Costa's knee. It was such a West Ham goal for the Hammers to concede.

There were spells when Chelsea were shaken, particularly around the
hour-mark, when a sharp period of pressure lifted the crowd. Thibaut
Courtois' most nervous moments — a wild Jose Fonte miskick, a Sofiane
Feghouli shot that was charged down by Alonso — came in the midst of this
chaos.

But this was congested territory. It was not unusual for Chelsea to have
nine players in the 18-yard area to contest any crosses. Courtois was always
surrounded by team-mates prepared to throw their bodies in front of the
ball.

Darren Randolph had no such protection. When Chelsea won possession, the
West Ham keeper could see disaster looming way off. The away side's attacks
developed like a flash flood 70 yards from Randolph's goal and swept back
Fonte and Winston Reid in a state of increasing desperation. Defenders dread
being turned around to face their own goal, especially when they are
outnumbered by onrushing attackers. Randolph watched this scenario unfold
all too often.

The game was never really close, despite Manuel Lanzini's late consolation
strike. By then, the stadium had emptied out. Chelsea's soak and swamp
tactics had sucked the life out of Bilic's side and their fans.

"To beat them, you need them to make mistakes, not the other way around,"
said Bilic. His only error was he could not imagine how easily Chelsea
could tear up his aggressive blueprint. Conte's counter-attackers are built
to exploit ambitious intentions.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Chelsea winning machine purrs on as West Ham are taught another London
Stadium lesson by the big boys
JOHN DILLON
Evening Standard

Nine days off and Chelsea re-emerge into the light at the London Stadium,
still so finely-tuned, still superbly drilled and composed, still full of
drive and purpose. Momentum is a much-prized idea in modern football.
Antonio Conte's runaway Premier League leaders have the advantage in this
title race of being free of the rigours of European football. The flip side
of that, if momentum is as valuable as some claim it to be, is that they
might lose some edge and sharpness while they are inactive.

Not this team, which brims with so much quality and is so comfortable in its
own skin. And not under this manager. The 25th minute Eden Hazard goal with
which Chelsea took the lead in east London was a symbolic one because it
showed just how completely connected these players are to the vision given
to them by their Italian boss, and how confident they are in their ability
to make their way of playing count and to make the most of their own
personal levels of ability.

They are gliding towards the big prize now, in Conte's first season. The
Double is on and they have another full seven days off before they face
Manchester United in the FA Cup quarter-final at Stamford Bridge next
Monday.

Then there is just one more league game this month at Stoke City, with an
international break looming. They should enjoy it while they can before
returning to the Champions League next season. Clearly, they are. Nobody
thinks they will falter now. There is not a glimmer of doubt about them just
now, despite Manuel Lanzini's consolation goal for West Ham in added time at
the end.

It is almost becoming a cliche to praise the fundamental importance of
N'Golo Kante to Chelsea's counter-attacking scheme of things, but that is
only because he is so metronomically consistent and so effective at what he
does.

Deep in his own team's half, he jumped with a consummate sense of what his
position and his job is all about on the opportunity to send Pedro racing
deep into West Ham territory.

Then Hazard, whose talent is sublime but once again relentless, too,
delivered his familiar devastating act of cool but dazzling self-belief to
finish without worry or fear.

This came after West Ham had given Chelsea something of an examination in
the opening spell, even if it was clear they had lacked real punch up front
despite the return of Andy Carroll.

But then that is why the elite clubs buy these players and employ these
managers. The Hammers are hardly paupers in terms of world football but they
can't match Chelsea's resources or the levels attained by their superstar
players.

Yes, there have always been clubs who are richer than others. It's just that
the gulf can be more pronounced at times these days, as West Ham, for all
their stated ambitions about their move to their new home, had already
discovered painfully in Stratford against Manchester City, twice, Arsenal
and Manchester United in this, their first season since leaving Upton Park.
This was underlined once again on Monday. This was the uncompromising way of
the football world, writ large in a new arena.

Hazard almost proved this point again in similar fashion in the 41st minute
when he got clear once more and screwed his cross just behind the lurking
Diego Costa.

The missed opportunity didn't matter. Costa then scored from close range to
emphasise Chelsea's untroubled supremacy in the 50th minute.

It was further proof of the swaggering mood of confidence they have at
present. Do not mistake this for arrogance, though.

This is not happening without the intense levels of hard work Conte demands
from his players in training. In games, however, its effect is to make the
team function without any hint of anxiety or uncertainty. They are getting
stronger. It is impressive stuff.

It also left Slaven Bilic's side without their long-awaited big moment to
help the crowd feel more at home in their vast but awkward new HQ. The EFL
Cup win against Chelsea last October doesn't really count, does it? The
truth about that was on show on Monday night.

Now they have only Spurs and Liverpool to come at home on consecutive
weekends in May as big moments on the calendar on which they might atone for
those earlier crushing blows against the big guns.

The worrying thing for West Ham was that even during their spell of early
pressure, Chelsea looked so at home in these surroundings.
There was not a hint of uncertainty, particularly in the defensive and
midfield ranks of the visitors. It was the same when City, Arsenal and
United romped through the place. Could it be that the sense of open-ness
about the stadium - so different from tightly-knit Upton Park - allows the
best sides and the best players a feeling of freedom and confidence about
what they are doing?

Is this just a psychological matter or are they able to see and read the
game better in such surroundings, with their higher levels of quality and
ability than the home team? Results against the big teams this season now
certainly suggest these may be big factors still hampering West Ham at home
- in a season in which they have done well to recover from their dreadful
Autumn of trouble.

On Monday in their new base, the task of climbing above their status as
London's fourth-ranked club looked as difficult as ever.
Hammers fans know exactly what their club represents, of course. They know
where they stand. Their love, the most powerful among the city's major
outfits, won't diminish. But it may be tested by many more evenings like
this one.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Toni Martinez enjoying physical education at Oxford United on loan from West
Ham
2 hrs ago / David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United.

TONI Martinez believes the physicality of Sky Bet League One means he is
experiencing a steep learning curve on loan at Oxford United.
Both the West Ham United striker's goals for the U's have come in the
Emirates FA Cup. The 19-year-old admitted to finding Saturday's league
defeat Bristol Rovers tough going, but he is confident it will stand him in
good stead for the challenges ahead. He said: "It's one of the more
difficult games for me here. "In League One it's different to the FA Cup –
the football is more physical.
"I am learning with my teammates and I think I'm going to improve in the
next few weeks." Martinez knows United cannot dwell on the Rovers loss if
they are to stay in the race for the play-offs, so is fired up to help them
get a result against Sheffield United tonight. He said: "We can't think
about it because we have another game on Tuesday which we need to win. "We
have another 13 games and we need to win as many as possible because the
play-offs are our objective. "Oxford are looking high."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The new stadium excuse is starting to wear thin so where is the Plan B
Slaven?
West Ham disappointed in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea and here are five talking
points from the match
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
06:30, 7 MAR 2017

The run goes on

West Ham still haven't beaten a side above 12th in the table at home in the
league this season. Hammerings were dished out by Arsenal and Man City but
while it was only 2-1 tonight, it was no less emphatic for the Blues. In the
games that West Ham have lost against top ten sides, let alone top four, the
Hammers have barely been competitive. The scrappy 1-0 wins over Burnley and
Hull didn't inspire, only the 3-0 win against Palace did. The excuse of the
new home is starting to wear thin. It's one thing losing to a big team but
it's another to be barely even competitive.

Why didn't Noble cross it?

All he had to do was swing the ball in the box, where the Hammers defenders
were still stationed following the corner, and Chelsea don't take the lead
on the counter attack. By giving the ball away - to Kante of all people -
was suicide from the Hammers skipper. Three passes later and West Ham were
behind. It summed up another poor night for Noble. Cheikhou Kouyate is
playing at right back to accommodate Noble in midfield and on current form,
that's the wrong way around.

Where is the Plan B?

We know what Plan A is, feed off Andy Carroll when he wins the header. But,
when that isn't working - which it didn't tonight - where is Plan B? Quick
answer - there isn't one. Manuel Lanzini was kept in check by Kante, David
Louis and Gary Cahill got more comfortable as the game went on and the
Hammers offered zilch in the second half. Andre Ayew offered something
different when he came on with 20 minutes to go but it wasn't enough.

No pace up front

The alarming lack of speed in the final third without Michail Antonio is
evident. Let's be clear though, Feghouli and Snodgrass are no slouches. They
just weren't quick enough to the ball, always second best for three-quarters
of the game. They didn't hurry the Chelsea backline at all, it and as too
easy for the visitors. They were allowed to pass the ball forward almost at
will and it summed up a frustrating night for the Hammers. Just not at it at
all.

Take care of the ball!

Possession is apparently nine tenths of the law but West Ham were careless
all evening with the important spherical object. Noble, Lanzini, Snodgrass,
Feghouli, even Obiang were all guilty of being profligate with possession
and with a team in Chelsea who have such a dynamic front three, you can't be
so bad with the ball. It cost the Hammers the first goal. In the second
half, lack of concentration contrived to yet more shoddy play with the ball.
It just wasn't good enough and Chelsea made the home team pay.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham favourite Manuel Lanzini makes his feelings clear on Slaven Bilic
HITC
Damien Lucas

West Ham United star Manuel Lanzini has made his feelings perfectly clear
about manager Slaven Bilic. Manchester United manager Jose The Hammers
playmaker has emerged from the shadow of Dimitri Payet to take on the mantle
of Bilic's talisman since the Frenchman's move back to Marseille in January.
While West Ham fans have always appreciated just how good the little
Argentine is, he is now starting to take on added responsibility for driving
his team forwards. He was once again on the scoresheet and West Ham's best
player in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on Monday night at the London Stadium.
Payet said Bilic was a father figure to him after sweeping the board at West
Ham's awards night at the end of last season. And who can forget Bilic
famously celebrating his goal for France in the TV studio at the European
Championships last summer. Payet was a hero to Hammers fans and was idolised
by his manager but spoiled all of that by going rogue to force his move back
to France.
Bilic can console himself now, though, in the knowledge that he has a new
bromance blossoming with Lanzini. That's if the former River Plate star's
Instagram post is anything to go by where he labels Bilic a great coach and
friend. "With effort and sacrifice everything arrives!" Lanzini said in the
post alongside a picture of Bilic talking to him on the training pitch. "As
a great coach and friend told me, the best is yet to come."
If Lanzini continues his progression there is no reason why Bilic's advice
cannot come true. And if the Hammers can keep hold of him in the summer and
add more creativity to their ranks to take the pressure of the talented star
then the future will look extremely bright in East London.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 7th March 2017

League leaders get London Stadium revenge
WHUFC.com

West Ham United 1-2 Chelsea

A tall order, it was always likely to be, beating Premier League leaders
Chelsea twice in the space of six months at London Stadium.

Having triumphed over their London rivals in the EFL Cup back in October,
the Hammers couldn't make it three home wins against Chelsea in a row as the
revenge-seeking Blues were 2-1 winners on Monday evening.

And the visitors won the game in typically clinical fashion, hunting down
the Hammers' every mistake and punishing them ruthlessly, despite Slaven
Bilic's side's particular first half dominance.

Terrific Manuel Lanzini, Sofiane Feghouli and Jose Fonte chances came and
went, and despite Lanzini's injury time strike, Chelsea's goals - scored by
two of the league's most deadly in Eden Hazard and Diego Costa - saw the
west Londoners through.

Most certainly, though, West Ham - roared on by the fantastic support inside
London Stadium - had the better of the first half.

Swinging in plenty of crosses for the returning Andy Carroll to attack,
Bilic's men put the league leaders under plenty of pressure and a succession
of corners after 20 minutes almost forced the opener, though the Blues
clearing their lines on three occasions.

And despite the hosts' dominance, the opener came against the run of play.
Following Manuel Lanzini's blocked free-kick, skipper Mark Noble was
dispossessed, allowing N'Golo Kante space inside his own half.

The Frenchman found Hazard who set off at blistering pace and, after
exchanging a one-two with teammate Pedro, rounded Darren Randolph coolly
before slotting home. Clinical.

The Hammers - persistent - continued to apply pressure. With Noble and Pedro
Obiang pulling the strings, Lanzini came closest to equalising as he broke
away from the Chelsea midfield before firing over from 20 yards after
receiving Noble's pass.

A minute later, the west Londoners almost converted another breakaway move,
though this time Aaron Cresswell blocked well from Victor Moses' effort
before Randolph denied Pedro with a cracking reaction stop.

The second half began in devastating fashion for West Ham. Fabregas' corner
was flicked on at the near post by Pedro Obiang and, just five minutes in,
Costa was allowed the space to nudge home from two yards.

Marcos Alonso went close to adding a third minutes later, but Bilic's side
never gave up the fight. Carroll curled over spectacularly from 30 yards
before Feghouli was denied by a brave, blocking Moses and Fonte headed wide
Cresswell's cross.

Randolph made sure the game was still just about in reach with 23 minutes
remaining as he, stretching to his right, tipped Costa's attempt round the
post, but the Blues stayed strong.

Strong, until the 92nd minute, that was. Substitute Andre Ayew, bursting
towards the Chelsea box, found Lanzini who controlled before finishing with
aplomb to rattle Antonio Conte's team's nerves.

Held on they did, however, to record an eighth win in ten and condemn the
Hammers to a harsh defeat.

West Ham United: Randolph, Kouyate, Reid (Byram 64), Fonte, Cresswell, Noble
(Fernandes 76), Obiang, Feghouli (Ayew 64), Lanzini, Snodgrass, Carroll.

Subs not used: Adrian, Collins, Masuaku, Calleri.

Chelsea: Courtois, Moses (Zouma 76), Azpilicueta, Luiz, Cahill, Alonso,
Kante, Fabregas, Hazard (Willian 74), Pedro (Matic 64), Costa.

Subs not used: Begovic, Loftus-Cheek, Batshuayi, Terry.

Bookings: 45+2

Attendance: 56,984

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mixed emotions for Manu
WHUFC.com

Manuel Lanzini scores on his 50th Premier League appearance for West Ham
United
But goal is only a late consolation as Hammers are beaten 2-1 at home by
Chelsea
Argentine believes the team will bounce back with victory at AFC Bournemouth
on Saturday

Manuel Lanzini had a night of mixed emotions on his 50th Premier League
appearance for West Ham United.

The No10 continued his outstanding recent form with his sixth league goal of
the season, but the well-taken strike was no more than a consolation in the
Hammers' 2-1 home defeat by Chelsea.

Speaking to whufc.com, Lanzini admitted the leaders had made the most of
their opportunities to complete a clinical victory at London Stadium.

"Of course, Chelsea are a very good team and that is demonstrated by their
position in the league," he said. "I think they are the best team in the
league, but we started the match well.

"They made it difficult for us with the way they counter-attacked and ran
and passed the ball and against teams like this, they can score at any
moment.

"Personally, of course I am happy to have scored a goal, because I always
want to score to help my team, but I am even happier if we win the game.

"We need to work hard in the week and do better in the next match, because
that is the only way we can respond to this result. That's the reality for
us."

West Ham gave a decent account of themselves against the Antonio Conte's
side, having more shots and more possession than the Blues, only for a
lightning-quick counter-attack and a set piece to undo all their good work
either side of half-time.

First, Eden Hazard ended a break by rounding Darren Randolph to score,
before Diego Costa bundled the ball home from a Cesc Fabregas. Those goals
meant Lanzini's accurate finish from Andre Ayew's pass meant nothing
points-wise.

Next up for West Ham comes a trip to AFC Bournemouth, with the Hammers keen
to complete their second 'double' of the season after beating Crystal Palace
home and away earlier this term.

The Cherries, who lost 1-0 at London Stadium back in August, go into the
game on the back of a resilient 1-1 draw at Manchester United, but Lanzini
believes he and his teammates can climb back into the top half with three
points at the Vitality Stadium.

"Of course we can win on Saturday because we have a very good team and a
very good group," he confirmed. "We work hard in training and we can show
that with a good performance at Bournemouth on Saturday."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic - Our mistakes were costly
WHUFC.com

Slaven Bilic admitted his side made a costly error to hand Chelsea the
opener in the Blues' 2-1 win at London Stadium
Antonio Conte's side were looking for revenge after defeat in the EFL Cup to
West Ham United earlier this season
Eden Hazard and Diego Costa goals saw the west Londoners through despite
Manuel Lanzini's late strike

West Ham United's mistakes proved extremely costly according to manager
Slaven Bilic, after he saw his side beaten 2-1 by Premier League leaders
Chelsea at London Stadium on Monday night.

Goals from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa - two of the top flight's most deadly
talents - saw Antonio Conte's side claim their eighth win in ten matches as
they held on despite Manuel Lanzini's injury time strike.

And Hammers boss Bilic lamented his side's errors as they gave possession
away to set Chelsea on their way in the first half.

He said: "To make such a mistake that led to their first goal when we had
our centre-backs in their box - we should have put the ball back in the box
- but we didn't and they scored the counter-attack.

"Their second goal was also a cheap one from our side. So basically, it's
very simple. If you want to beat Chelsea, then you can't make those kind of
mistakes. You have very little chance if you do.

"The first was a set piece for us and we had enough players back. We had a
chance to put in the second ball in a good position but we didn't, Mark
wanted to play with the best intentions, but you expect your players to run
back with more reason in this situation.

"Chelsea players are all in and around the box as well but they got the ball
in space where we can't afford to give it, especially against them because
their pace in the transition is scary."

West Ham ChelseaThe Blues' victory meant Chelsea moved ten points clear at
the top of the league table and the West Ham boss admitted Conte's are an
incredibly impressive outfit.

"They have everything," the Croatian continued. "They are really good. From
all the top teams, they are very solid and they defend all the time with
numbers.

"They defend with five at the back and with two midfielders and everyone
apart from Costa, and when they have the ball, their pace and quality and
individual stuff is great.

"Some of the combinations they make are amazing and they have the quality
and are solid as a unit. They're a very fit which makes it difficult also.

"We knew Chelsea are where they are for a reason."

There were certainly positives to take from the game, however, and Bilic
remained pleased with the first half display despite the crucial mistake
that led to the opener.

"We played well in the first half - we started really, really well. We were
on top. We created a lot of problems on our left, put some crosses in with
Snodgrass but we didn't have enough bodies in the box apart from Andy. It
looked really good.

"Then we made that cheap mistake in a place that against them you can't.

"We have a game against Bournemouth now and it's a very big game for us. We
have to prepare ourselves and try to get back to winning."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United 1-2 Chelsea
By Saj Chowdhury
BBC Sport

Diego Costa and Eden Hazard scored as Chelsea beat West Ham to extend their
lead at the top of the Premier League to 10 points.

It was the Blues' 21st victory of the league season and another big step
towards winning the title in Antonio Conte's first season as manager.

The Italian was once again spot on with his tactics - nullifying the
predictable aerial threat of the Hammers' 6ft 4in frontman Andy Carroll
early in the match.

And then in the 25th minute his attackers cruelly exposed the hosts' defence
with a devastating counter-attack.

N'Golo Kante read a pass from Robert Snodgrass deep inside the Chelsea half
on the left and played the ball to Hazard. The Belgium winger drove forward,
played a one-two with Pedro and then shifted the ball past keeper Darren
Randolph before slotting home.

The Blues doubled their lead after the break when Hazard's corner from the
left was turned in with his thigh by Costa - the Spain striker's 17th league
goal of the season.

The Hammers came close after Costa's strike when Sofiane Feghouli's low
drive was brilliantly saved by Thibaut Courtois. Chelsea wing-back Marcos
Alonso then appeared to block Manuel Lanzini's half-volley with his arm
moments later - but referee Andre Marriner deemed it to be accidental.

West Ham finally pierced the last line of defence in stoppage time. Carroll
robbed Cesc Fabregas and fed Andre Ayew, who squared for Lanzini to fire in.

Chelsea quell Carroll threat

No doubt there were West Ham supporters who would have fancied their team's
chances of causing an upset on Monday.

They came into the match having lost only one of their past six league
games, picking up three wins. And one of the Blues' four defeats came at
London Stadium in the EFL Cup earlier this season.

But perhaps what gave those fans greatest belief of a win was the return of
Carroll, back after a month out with a groin injury - and the big striker
was central to the Hammers' tactics.

In the opening 20 minutes, both Snodgrass and Feghouli provided the
ex-Newcastle and Liverpool forward with high lofted balls. Unfortunately for
Hammers manager Slaven Bilic, Chelsea had done their homework as their
defenders repeatedly prevented Carroll from having an effort on goal.

He became a peripheral figure in the second half as West Ham looked for a
new way of breaching the visitors' defence.

They managed to do so through Lanzini in the dying seconds, but there was
too little time to find an equaliser.

Unflappable Blues continue march to title

Not even an intruder who made his way towards the Chelsea players after
Hazard's goal could nudge the visitors off their stride. He, like West Ham's
attack, was quickly contained.

Chelsea's attack then demonstrated why they are top of the table - the
opening goal was a delight.

Kante, who as a defensive midfielder made the second-highest number of
sprints on the night - 77 - darted back to cut out Snodgrass' ball. It was
then over to Hazard and Pedro, with the Belgian having the confidence and
composure to take the ball past Randolph before tucking in.

It was not as good as his Match of the Day goal of the month against Arsenal
on 4 February, but impressive nonetheless. Costa, who had a quiet game, then
added a simple second after the break.

The Blues did lose their concentration on two occasions: once when Courtois
made a great save to block Feghouli's low drive, and then in stoppage time
when the Belgium keeper was beaten by Lanzini.

But those mistakes have been few and far between this season.

Man of the match - Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

West Ham could not cope with the fastest player on the pitch, who hit a top
speed of 34.01km/h. More importantly, his guile, interplay with his
team-mates and lethal finishing made him the standout player on the night.


Chelsea have enjoyed 118 Premier League London derby wins, more than any
other side (one more than Arsenal).
West Ham have won only two of their past 22 Premier League clashes with
Chelsea, losing 16 and drawing four.
Chelsea are the seventh side to accrue 66-plus points from their first 27
games of a Premier League season, having done it themselves twice before (69
in 2005-06 and 68 in 2004-05). All six previous sides have gone on to win
the title.
Chelsea scored the opening goal of the game for the 21st time this season in
the Premier League, four more times than any other side.
Chelsea are the only side to use all three substitutes in all of their
Premier League games this season.
Lanzini has scored in eight of his 12 Premier League London derby
appearances.
What's next?

Chelsea have an FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United coming up on
Monday, 13 March (19:45 GMT) and then it is back to league action the
following Saturday when they travel to Stoke.

West Ham are away at Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday, 11 March
(15:00 GMT).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic left frustrated by mistakes in West Ham's 2-1 defeat to Chelsea
Last Updated: 06/03/17 11:10pm
SSN

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic was left frustrated by the costly mistakes
which saw his side concede "cheap" goals as Chelsea to claimed a 2-1 victory
at the London Stadium.

Eden Hazard and Diego Costa were on target for the visitors as they brushed
aside the Hammers to take a 10-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

Manuel Lanzini struck a consolation in injury time to set up an anxious
conclusion but Chelsea held on, and Bilic thought Antonio Conte's side were
full value for their victory.

"They are where they are for a reason but we expected something from this
game," Bilic told Sky Sports.

"We started well in the first half, and then to make such a mistake that led
to their goal when we had our centre backs and everybody in their box," said
the Croatian. "We should have put the ball back into their box. We didn't
and they scored from a counter-attack.

"And then their second goal, from our side was a cheap one.

"The story is very simple. If you want to beat Chelsea, they have to make
the mistakes for you to score goals and not the other way round. [Otherwise]
you have very little chance."

Bilic was full of praise for Chelsea, saying Conte's side were a scary side
to face because of the pace they have when they counter-attack.

"We scored a goal which was good, and we could have scored more, but in the
second-half every attack they had with their pace and quality looked very
dangerous," Bilic said.

Speaking about Chelsea's second goal, he added: "It's a set piece for us and
we have enough players at the back and then we get the second ball in a good
position to put the ball in but we didn't.

"We lost the ball in a space where you can't afford to, especially against
them because their pace in the transition is scary."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic unfazed by West Ham's Chelsea defeat and looking at successful
long-term future with the club
The Hammers boss is keen to extend his stay in east London and believes
long-term managerial stability is the best way to achieve greater success
The Mirror
BYADRIAN KAJUMBA
22:57, 6 MAR 2017UPDATED23:59, 6 MAR 2017

Things have settled down at West Ham and thoughts are starting to turn to
the future . A new contract is on the agenda for boss Slaven Bilic who is
eyeing an extended stay to increase his chances of building the club. "The
longer you stay somewhere, the more chance you have to win things," he said.
"Normally you have a much bigger chance if you are given time to build your
team and improve it." That's what Bilic will be aiming to do again this
summer when he is expected to be handed a significant amount of money to
spend once more. Their search for a big name striker will resume and a
right-back will also be a priority. The versatile Cheikhou Kouyate has been
filling in lately with Sam Byram and Alvaro Arbeloa failing to convince.
There will be an extra determination to get things right in the next summer
window. A poor one last year hampered their chances of kicking on from last
season's impressive campaign and seventh-placed finish which, briefly,
brought Europa League football. Just one of the glut of signings from last
summer, Sofiane Feghouli, started against Chelsea last night. If Michail
Antonio had not been suspended that number might well have been zero.
Encouragingly West Ham's January work was better. Against a backdrop of a
little friction behind the scenes over who calls the shots when it comes to
transfers, Jose Fonte and Robert Snodgrass arrived and have quickly nailed
down places in the Hammers side.
After their gambles last summer, lessons had clearly and quickly been
learned. It has been a season full of them for the Hammers and Bilic has
done well to steady the ship through some choppy waters. Slaven Bilic has
been hugely popular at West Ham since his playing days, and even more so as
a manager (Photo: 2015 West Ham United FC) The Dimitri Payet saga, new
stadium furore - still not solved based on last night's latest security
breach - more injuries and indifferent form have all tested Bilic. But the
early season woes have all eased and West Ham are on course for a mid-table
finish. There is still work to be done though as occasions like last night,
when the Hammers were comfortably beaten, show. That work looks set to
continue under Bilic.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News II - 6th March 2017

Loanee round up
WHUFC.com

Enner Valencia scored a consolation goal for Everton as they were beaten at
Tottenham Hotpsur
Josh Cullen and Sam Howes both put in Man of the Match performances for
their respsective Bradford City and Hampton and Richmond Borough sides
Sam Ford grabbed Bishop's Storford's winner away at St. Albans City

Hammers loanee Enner Valencia was on the scoresheet on Sunday for Everton in
the Premier League, though the goal could not spark a late comeback against
Tottenham Hotpsur. The Ecuador forward was introduced by boss Ronald Koeman
for the last nine minutes at White Hart Lane, and cut the deficit to just
one goal in the dying seconds to make it 3-2. Racing into the box to meet
Ross Barkley's deep set-piece delivery, Valencia met the ball on the volley
to finish well into the bottom corner. But having previously scored in
injury time themselves through Deli Alli, Spurs held on to take all three
points and stay hot on the heels of West Ham United's Monday night opponents
Chelsea. The goal was Valencia's second for the Merseysiders, and it came
after Romelu Lukaku had given the Toffees a way back into the game following
Harry Kane's double.

Another Saturday, another Man of the Match performance for midfielder Josh
Cullen, who has starred on loan at Bradford City this season. The
20-year-old helped the Bantams to an important 1-0 victory when they hosted
Peterborough United – the win keeps Stuart McCall's men inside the third
tier's top six. Martin Samuelsen was an unused substitute for Posh. The
victory was Cullen's 35th appearance of the season on loan at the Valley
Parade outfit, and the Ireland youth international will be hoping to help
Bradford play Championship football next season.

Elsewhere, it was a disappointing afternoon for Toni Martinez, whose Oxford
United were beaten at 2-0 home by Bristol Rovers. Overtaking their hosts,
the Pirates moved into eighth spot in League One with the win thanks to
goals from Ollie Clarke and Stuart Sinclair.

George Dobson was left on the bench as his Walsall side were 2-0 winners
over Oldham Athletic.

In the National League South, Hammers striker Sam Ford was on the scoresheet
for Bishop's Stortford as they picked up a crucial three points at St.
Albans City. Bishop's are hoping to avoid the drop this season and, thanks
to the win, are now six points from safety.

Finally, goalkeeper Sam Howes kept a clean sheet in a Man of the Match
performance for Hampton and Richmond Borough in the same division as they
were held 0-0 at Maidenhead United. The stopper made one particularly
brilliant save which has been doing the rounds on social media, springing
away to his right to deny a goal-bound free-kick.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manager on Matchday
WHUFC.com

Manager Slaven Bilic writes for whufc.com ahead of Monday's Premier League
visit of leaders Chelsea to London Stadium...

Hello everyone,

Tonight, we face the Premier League leaders and I, my players, my staff and
I am sure all of you are looking forward to West Ham United versus Chelsea.
We will have a fantastic atmosphere at London Stadium, where we will give
everything to repeat the victory over them we achieved in the EFL Cup back
in October. Of course, tonight is a completely different match and both
teams have improved since that night, with Chelsea going into the game seven
points clear at the top of the Premier League, and us looking to win, go
back above Southampton and Stoke City and close the gap on West Bromwich
Albion down to four points. We are playing good and while some people might
say this is a 'bonus' game, it's a home game and we're expecting something.
We know big time that we have to be on top of our game at both ends of the
pitch, concentrate 100 per cent and show non-stop determination. If we play
like that and get a bit of luck, which is always needed, when you play
against them we can get a result.

I was asked in my press conference if we 'fear' Chelsea but of course we
don't fear them, like we don't fear any opponent. None of our players would
be in this position playing in the Premier League if they felt fear before a
game. There is no fear at all.
There is respect, of course there is, and they deserve that for what they
have done this season, Chelsea deserve more respect than any other team.
They are a top team and sometimes, when you play against a top team, you
have a game plan on paper or on a board and you go 'Yeah, we will double
them here and double them there, and look at all the space that we can use'
and you go out on the pitch fearless. That said, you can prepare as best you
can, but then in the first five minutes they break you down, pass the ball
and you can't get the ball let alone use the space and you realise 'they are
brilliant'. We have respect but no fear at all.

We have Andy Carroll back in the squad tonight, which is a big boost for us,
particularly as we will be without Michail after his red card at Watford. It
means a lot to have him available. We have done well without him available
but with him we may well have done even better. He is one of our key
players. It will be great to have him on a pitch tonight and I am optimistic
that he will be fit to be involved. You know how much I rate him and how
much we rate him. We are not a one-man team though. We have a great squad
and we are playing good, so we go into the game with confidence that we can
do something good.

Enjoy the game.
Slaven

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
U18s qualify for PL Phase Two Division One
WHUFC.com

West Ham's U18s ended their Premier League South campaign in fourth place
That ensures qualification for Division One of Premier League Phase Two
Assistant boss Mark Phillips says he and manager Steve Potts are delighted

U18s assistant manager Mark Phillips has expressed delight at his U18s
qualifying, yet again, for Division One of Premier League Phase Two. All
eyes were on Fulham who needed a victory at home to Norwich City on
Saturday, but despite taking a 2-0 lead, the Cottagers ended up drawing the
fixture, which ensured the Hammers' place in the top four. It is the third
time in four seasons that the U18s have finished among the elite academy
teams and they will face some very tough tests in the coming months.
However, Phillips is looking forward to the challenge facing his players.
"We are very delighted to finish in the top four," he declared. "It's going
to give the boys a real challenge in the coming months and it's one I know
they'll be looking forward to. "You want to be playing against the best
sides because it's about development at the end of the day, but it looked
like it wasn't going to happen at one point during Saturday. "I saw Fulham
were 2-0 up and then thought 'we won't make it' but Norwich fought back and
we've sneaked into the top four. We've certainly done it the hard way!"

The Hammers finished in the South Division top four alongside Chelsea,
Arsenal and Reading and they will meet the top four from the North Division
– Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers. Each
side will play each other once over the next couple of months, with fixtures
set to be announced in due course. Phillips looked back on the South
campaign with fondness and said it was a "great achievement" for his young
group of players. "We've played lots of U16s this season and, especially
against Chelsea in our last match, they did very well and were probably in
our top five players on the day," Phillips continued. "I think the eventual
winners of the FA Youth Cup are in the top group – Chelsea or Man City – so
it's going to be great to test ourselves against the best."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three Key Battles - Chelsea
WHUFC.com

As West Ham United prepare for their second meeting with Chelsea this season
at London Stadium, whufc.com takes a look at three key battles which could
swing the balance in Monday's night's Premier League fixture.

The Hammers were of course victorious last time out against the Blues –
goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes sealed the EFL Cup tie
win on a memorable night in east London.

And though Chelsea, so impressive under Antonio Conte this season, currently
sit top of the Premier League table, October's superb success has Slaven
Bilic's men believing they can shock the west Londoners once again.

Reid v Cahill

Starting at the back, two club stalwarts in Winston Reid and Gary Cahill
have been pivotal to their respective sides this season.

Reid, who held things together as the Hammers battled through some early
season struggles, looks to be forming a solid partnership with new signing
Jose Fonte, while Cahill has taken on the captaincy role with great success
as John Terry sits out.

It's clear to see, by the New Zealander's statistics, how important he is.
Making 8.9 clearances on average per match, the centre-back has got rid of
the ball on fewer occasions than only Bournemouth's Steve Cook and
Sunderland's Papy Djilobodji.

Chelsea's defence this season has also, at times, been impenetrable and with
Cahill at its heart, the side have conceded fewer goals than any other team
in the top flight.

Obiang v Kante

In midfield, another pair have been hugely influential this season. Pedro
Obiang, utilised only at times in his first campaign at the Club, has come
into his own this term.

Meanwhile, N'Golo Kante has been marvellous to watch for the last season and
a half now, playing a vital role as Leicester City were crowned champions
last year and now proving similarly as important for Conte's team.

The Frenchman, whose best attributes include winning the ball back and
getting around the pitch at pace, already looks set to claim back-to-back
Premier League titles.

Obiang, on the other hand, may play at a slightly slow and steadier pace,
but the Spaniard controls matches for Bilic's men and bagged his first goal
in Claret and Blue recently at Southampton.

Lanzini v Fabregas

Finally, the playmakers; Manuel Lanzini and Cesc Fabregas. Though the latter
has not started many of Chelsea's recent matches, the Spaniard did face
Swansea City from the off in the Blues' last clash, scoring in the 3-1 win.
He therefore looks set to keep his place tonight.

For Monday night's hosts, Lanzini will again be crucial, the responsibility
of driving his team forward and creating chances resting on his shoulders.

In 2017, the diminutive Argentine's form has been excellent with him scoring
twice and setting up a double at Middlesbrough.

With Andy Carroll and Diego Costa likely to be lurking in the penalty areas
at London Stadium, Lanzini and Fabregas will be looking to provide their
teammates with plenty of goalscoring opportunities.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Winston Reid warns Chelsea that West Ham have 'turned the table' at the
London Stadium ahead of Premier League encounter
West Ham beat Premier League leaders Chelsea at London Stadium in EFL Cup
They have suffered home humblings against both Arsenal and Manchester City
Twelfth-placed are the highest-ranked team they have beaten at home in
league
The Hammers will be looking to claim three points on Monday against Chelsea
By Oliver Todd for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 13:37, 6 March 2017 | UPDATED: 13:41, 6 March 2017

Winston Reid has warned Chelsea that West Ham have finally 'turned the
table' to become a real threat to the big teams at the London Stadium. The
Hammers beat the Premier League leaders at their new ground in the EFL Cup
back in October but have suffered home humblings at the hands of Arsenal and
Manchester City. Reid, though, reckons West Ham are now ready to upset the
odds at the former Olympic Stadium. Twelfth-placed are the highest-ranked
team they have beaten at home in the league so far. 'I think the way that
the season started obviously wasn't the best, especially at home but we've
turned the table now,' the centre back told Sportsmail.
'We're still going to have to improve on our home form, we're doing so, and
it will be a good game. Chelsea are going well but we're also going well so
we'll wait and see.' Meanwhile, West Ham captain Mark Noble can also see a
team growing into their new, upgraded 60,000 capacity home. 'That's what
happens when you win games — you build the fear factor,' Noble said. 'When
you win games the crowd get behind and obviously at the beginning of the
season it was tough for us, as it is for every club that moves stadium but
we're going to have to get used to that. 'It will take time to be a proper
home but I'm hoping we can do it sooner rather than later.' Reid is expected
to line-up alongside January signing Jose Fonte at the heart of Slaven
Bilic's defence on Monday night. The new pairing are yet to keep a clean
sheet together but Reid, 28, says their understanding is growing. 'It's been
going well. I think it always takes time, it takes time with any
partnership,' he said. 'It takes time to build relations and it's only going
to get better and better. So, yeah, it's been really good

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jose Fonte left furious with reports that he handed in transfer request and
refused to train before leaving Southampton for West Ham
Jose Fonte joined West Ham from Southampton in an £8million deal in January
The Portuguese defender is frustrated with the 'lies' that were told over
his move
Reports stated that he handed in a transfer request and refused to train
West Ham face Premier League leaders Chelsea on Monday at London Stadium
By Jonathan Spencer For Mailonline
PUBLISHED: 12:54, 6 March 2017 | UPDATED: 13:06, 6 March 2017

Jose Fonte has been left frustrated with the 'lies' that he says have been
told over his move from Southampton to West Ham in January.
The Portuguese defender joined the Hammers in an £8million deal after
spending seven years with Southampton at St Mary's. During his long spell
with the Saints, Fonte became captain and helped the club move up the
English divisions, from League One up to the Premier League. But following
his transfer, the 33-year-old centre-back has been left furious with reports
that he handed in a transfer request and refused to train with Southampton
in order to force a move away from the club. 'My conscience is very clear,'
Fonte told Sky Sports ahead of West Ham's home match with Chelsea on Monday.
'When I see all over the news that I submitted a transfer request to leave
the club – that is 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? 'I spoke to the club [after winning Euro 2016] and said there could be
possibilities [to move] and I would like the club to consider it. 'In the
summer there were possibilities of leaving – that is 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 is a
lie. And also that I refused to train and I wasn't being a good captain?
That is a complete lie. I have always given my best to that club. That is
the main thing the fans should know.' Fonte and his West Ham team-mates take
on Premier League leaders Chelsea on Monday night at the London Stadium.
Slaven Bilic's side will be looking to upset the Blues as the visitors aim
to maintain their big lead at the top of the table.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says Antonio Conte has transformed Chelsea players into
superheroes but West Ham boss rules out Asmir Begovic move
SLAVEN BILIC
Evening Standard

I am looking forward to tonight's game against the runaway title favourites
Chelsea. This is our third meeting of the season and it stands at 1-1 at the
moment. We won the EFL Cup tie back in October but Chelsea came out on top
in the opening game of this season at Stamford Bridge. I remember they were
better than us and we gave away a cheap penalty. We then equalised and I
still recall they looked shaky — it was as though they were in a bit of
shock. There was a chance to even win the game. Maybe Diego Costa was lucky
to stay on the pitch and we paid the price when, with a couple of minutes to
go, he scored the winning goal. They were then a good side but better now.
So what is their secret? Why are they so dominant? The answer first is —
there is no secret.

The main thing you notice about Chelsea this season is that they are very
fit, they work hard, they are very solid and on top of that, they have that
quality up front which is basically making the difference in every game. If
you compare them with the other title contenders, Chelsea are more solid
than Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool. Most of the games, they are
winning not totally the Italian way and at home they play some very
offensive football. Look at the way they push up their wing-backs, they are
more like wingers. It's a very demanding position and there is no point in
playing that system if the players are not capable of possessing that level
of fitness. Both of them — Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso — have great
stamina and they train hard. What makes Chelsea solid is that they never
defend with three — it's always five. The only one who is resting somewhat
is Costa and, sometimes, Eden Hazard. When Chelsea win possession, though,
Alonso and Moses are right up there and to do that regularly, not now and
again, you have to train hard and be almost superheroes.

In my opinion that makes them solid but then dangerous when they have the
ball. The other key points for me are that they have no other distractions
and they have no injuries. I have to say I am a great admirer of Antonio
Conte. He is one of a number of Italian coaches who have come to England and
had success. If I am asked to describe Conte's teams, I would answer —
energy. His teams work hard but also have quality. It shouldn't be difficult
to make even average players work hard because they should know that is the
minimum but it is more difficult to make big players work hard and make
sacrifices for the team — that is the key. That's what Conte is doing. Some
of the top teams rely on their class. You don't, for example, need that
maximum energy for many games if you are Real Madrid. You can still win
because you have the class.

At Chelsea, though, the whole team are playing with that peak energy. The
best example I can give is Hazard. He is working as hard as anyone in that
team now. That's the difference I can see between Conte and some of the
others and he does it long-term. It's not just an impact for a few months
and everyone is hyped up — he did it for three seasons at Juventus. There,
they played every game as though it was their last and I can see the same
characteristics in Chelsea. Having said all those nice things about Conte
and his Chelsea team, I would be so happy it we could ruin their night.

We have been linked with many players in the last three transfer windows,
including Chelsea goalkeeper Asmir Begovic. In those three windows, though,
I have said a few times that the only position in the team I have absolutely
no interest in discussing is the goalkeeping spot. I was happy — and I am
still happy — with Adrian and Darren Randolph. If you ask me whether they
will both still be here next season, I would say yes. You can never be 100
per cent certain in football, of course, and maybe one of them will knock on
the door and say he is unhappy but even if that happens, I will try to
persuade them to stay at the club.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to open talks with Pedro Obiang over new deal
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 06/03/17 2:52pm
SSN

West Ham will open contract talks with Pedro Obiang at the end of the
season, according to Sky sources. The Spanish midfielder joined the Hammers
from Serie A side Sampdoria in June 2015 and has just over two years
remaining on his current four-year contract. Reports in the national press
have linked Liverpool with a £18m summer move for Obiang, with Jurgen Klopp
already expressing his desire to add up to six players to his squad ahead of
next season. Sky sources understand West Ham are keen to reward Obiang for
the fine form he has shown this season, with the 24-year-old having become a
regular starter under manager Slaven Bilic. Obiang, who struggled to hold
down a regular first-team place last season, has featured 27 times this
campaign and scored his first goal for the club in the 3-1 victory over
Southampton in February. He is likely to start for West Ham against Chelsea
at London Stadium on Monday Night Football, live on Sky Sports 1 HD from
7pm. Meanwhile, West Ham are also close to agreeing a deal to give Bilic a
new contract at the end of the campaign. Bilic, who was appointed as Sam
Allardyce's successor in June 2015, has 15 months remaining on his present
deal.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic wants to mirror Antonio Conte's ambition and
build long-term success
KEN DYER
Evening Standard

Slaven Bilic wants to mirror Antonio Conte's ambition at Chelsea and help
build long-term success at West Ham. The two managers go head-to-head
tonight at the London Stadium and after Conte told Standard Sport last week
he wants to stay at Stamford Bridge for years, Bilic too, believes he can
build something special at his club. The Croatian has another season to run
on his contract after this one but it is likely West Ham will offer him an
improved deal this summer. "The longer you stay somewhere, the more chance
you have to win things," said the West Ham manager. "Sometimes the best
season for a coach is their first season, as with Claudio Ranieri at
Leicester. He couldn't do any better than last season. "There are examples
like that which prove me wrong, but normally you have a much bigger chance
if you are given time to build your team and improve it. "With us, we knew
that this season would not be easy, but I believe everyone can see we are
now on an upward curve. "We have had some bumps along the way and there will
be more to come, but I think everyone can feel we are moving the right way."
Striker Andy Carroll looks likely to return tonight after missing two games
with a groin injury. Bilic said: "Andy is looking good. He has trained for
the last week and it is good to have him back."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham star Robert Snodgrass comes to realisation over internet sensation
Salt Bae: 'It's just a guy walking round with a big knife!'
West Ham recently paid a visit to the restuarant of internet sensation 'Salt
Bae'
The chef shot to global fame after being filmed sensually salting steak
Hammers ace Robert Snodgrass came to a realise upon seeing the man himself
'It's just a guy walking around with a big knife!' said the Scottish striker
Snodgrass is set to play against Chelsea despite a warrant being issued for
his arrest in Scotland last Friday for failing to attend court
By Sam Cunningham for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 10:43, 6 March 2017 | UPDATED: 10:48, 6 March 2017

Robert Snodgrass was enjoying having his steak prepared by famously
flamboyant chef Salt Bae during West Ham's Dubai training trip when
something struck him. To those less seasoned with internet sensations, Salt
Bae is a Turkish chef — real name Nusret Gokce — who shot to fame in January
when a video of him sensually preparing a t-bone steak and finishing it off
with a fanciful flick of salt went viral. His following on social media
increased by several millions and prompted Hollywood star Leonardo Di Caprio
to visit.
West Ham were in need of a distraction from the coldest, wettest
warm-weather training in history so they planned a trip to Gokce's Nusr-Et
restaurant chain. The long-haired, sunglasses-wearing chef even rescheduled
his plans to make a special appearance for the players. But while Gokces
ferreted around with his machete and meats, Scot Snodgrass, who signed for
West Ham from Hull City for £7million during peak Salt Bae hysteria,
couldn't help but think that this would not be such a celebrated spectacle
back home. 'If that restaurant was in Glasgow it would be shut down, it's
just a guy walking round with a big knife!' Snodgrass says.

The winger is set to play against Chelsea on Monday evening, despite a
warrant being issued for his arrest back in Scotland last Friday for failing
to attend court. He is charged with driving while a baby was being held by a
passenger. 'It was just a misunderstanding and I didn't realise I had to be
present in court,' he explains. 'It's not a big issue and will be resolved
in due course.'

In many ways, Snodgrass is the Salt Bae of footballers. He caresses the ball
with his left-foot to deliver the finest set pieces akin to Gokce's delicate
way of delivering the finest steak. Gockce's flick of the wrist is similar
to the midfielder's swish of a left boot. Like Gokce, Snodgrass is a luxury,
brought in to replace Dimitri Payet who forced his way out of the club in
January.

'He's obviously got a special knack to putting the salt on, it runs down his
arm and he flicks his wrist and it goes on to your plate,' Snodgrass adds.
'And he has different ways of cutting the meat. We were asking him if he got
a million followers [on Instagram] in one day, he said, "No 1.5m actually."'

The Salt Bae experience was part of team bonding that has helped Snodgrass
settle with his new team-mates on what turned out to be an unseasonably poor
spell of weather in the Middle East. When West Ham touched down at Dubai
International Airport it was raining and the clouds did not part until they
took off five days later. Some of the players had even brought their
disappointed other halves along for the break.

'The weather was worse than Scotland!' Snodgrass says. 'It was raining a
lot, and cold – 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, because
it was abroad. But for me and Jose Fonte it was good to go on a trip with
the lads.

'We probably trained harder over there than we did here. Because that was
one thing that the manager stressed, that we have to work harder out there,
and I think the only disappointing thing was that we thought it was going to
be hot weather training, but it was totally different.

'We went for a meal and a cabaret one night. Watched some stuff and had a
meal. And that was good because anything like brings the team closer
together. So it was good. And then when you come back, I think you could see
how close we had become, because the second half against Watford, we knew
were not up to scratch first half, and we had a talk at half time, and I
thought we were great second half and probably should have won it.'

How much effect the hard work, team bonding and Salt Bae have had will be
tested when the Premier League leaders visit.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fonte furious over Southampton exit 'lies'Jose Fonte is angry over the way
his transfer from Southampton to West Ham has been portrayed. by Opta News
06 Mar 2017, 14:14 IST

West Ham defender Jose Fonte has hit out at "lies" he says have been told
over his Southampton exit in January.The 33-year-old joined West ham in an
£8million deal after spending seven years with the Saints, a spell that saw
him help the club from League One to the Premier League and become
captain.Fonte is angry at reports he handed in a transfer request and
refused to train in order to force through a move, but confirmed he had been
looking to leave since prior to this season.

"My conscience is very clear," the Portugal international said to Sky Sports
ahead of West Ham's home match with Chelsea on Monday."When I see all over
the news that I submitted a transfer request to leave the club – that is
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?"I spoke to the club
[after winning Euro 2016] and said there could be possibilities [to move]
and I would like the club to consider it."In the summer there were
possibilities of leaving – that is 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 is a lie. And also that
I refused to train and I wasn't being a good captain? That is a complete
lie. I have always given my best to that club. That is the main thing the
fans should know."

Asked if he felt unfairly criticised, Fonte said: "No doubt. You need to
know all the facts. "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?"The real fans know I have given everything for the club. They know
every time I step on the pitch and put on the shirt, I give blood, sweat and
tears. I have played with broken toes, broken ribs. I have 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 is all lies. I have never rejected to
train or play. It is hard to see when people are saying I'm a bad egg or an
apple."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 were not willing to. It is 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 have got to fight for what you believe. I
respected the club."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's warm-weather trip to Dubai was 'worse than Scotland'
ESPN.co.uk

Robert Snodgrass felt right at home on West Ham's recent trip to Dubai --
because the weather was as bad as in his native Glasgow.
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic took advantage of a fixture-free weekend last
month to jet off with his squad to seek out some sunshine.
But winger Snodgrass, a £10.2 million January signing from Hull, revealed
the so-called warm-weather training was a washout due to the constant rain.
"To be honest with you, the weather was worse than 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."

The Hammers did manage a spot of team bonding between the downpours,
including a visit to Salt Bae chef and internet sensation Nusret Gokce's
restaurant. "The chef was there, he came and did his thing with the salt,"
added Snodgrass. "I think if that restaurant was in Glasgow it would be shut
down, it's just a guy walking round with a big knife! "But he was such a
nice guy. I think he was going somewhere else but he drove back for us to
cook the stuff and chop it up which was really nice of him."

Snodgrass is now hoping to cut Chelsea down to size when the runaway Premier
League leaders visit the London Stadium on Monday night.
"We have got players here that can cause any team problems," he said. "But
it is the teams in the top six that we have not picked up a lot of points
against this year, so we need to start on Monday against Chelsea."

Last week a warrant was issued for Snodgrass after he failed to attend a
court trial having been charged with driving a car while a baby was being
held by a passenger. But the issue is not expected to affect his or West
Ham's preparations for the match. 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."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Winston Reid on coping with Chelsea's Diego Costa: 'You have to
keep your eyes on him at all times'
EXCLUSIVE
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Evening Standard

Winston Reid says he will not let Diego Costa out of his sight when West Ham
host London rivals Chelsea on Monday night, admitting the striker has the
ability to expose any defender's weakness. Costa will arrive at West Ham's
London Stadium tonight having scored 16 goals for Antonio Conte's league
leaders - one of which was the winner in the 2-1 victory over the Hammers at
Stamford Bridge on the opening day of the season. Reid was tasked with
marking Costa in that game, as well as in West Ham's EFL Cup fourth-round
tie with the Blues in October when Conte brought the striker on in the 54th
minute with Chelsea losing 2-0. The West Ham defender admits the Spain
international is a "top player", but says he will try and contain Costa this
evening by staying as close as possible to Chelsea's highest scorer and not
letting him out of his sights. "When you play against top players you have
to do your best and try and be at the best of your game or you get found
out," Reid told Standard Sport. "You have to try and keep your eyes on him
at all times and make sure you're close to him and mark him in the box where
he's dangerous."

Chelsea left it late to beat West Ham in the reverse fixture back in August,
relying on an 89th-minute goal from Costa to hand Conte his first win in the
Premier League. The Blues started the season with a rough 4-3-3 formation
before Conte switched to a 3-4-3 set-up after the 3-0 loss in the league
against Arsenal in late September. The Italian kept that formation for
Chelsea's League Cup clash with West Ham a month later, but saw a
much-changed side lose 2-1 in east London. Chelsea have since stormed to the
top of the Premier League standings while West Ham have steadied their form
and have only lost three of their last 12 top-flight games. Now sitting in
ninth place, Reid believes a rejuvenated West Ham side can use their home
advantage to secure at least a point against Chelsea tonight. "The first
game was different because they played a different system. And the second
game when we played them at home in the Cup, they changed a couple of
positions [in the 3-4-3]," Reid said. "It's a different system, and they are
doing really well. They are hard to score against but we put a couple of
goals past them at home and we put one past them away. "We'll be at home
and hopefully we'll have a good crowd so we will have a go at them and see
if we can win the game. "They aren't leading the league for fun - they've
been scoring goals left, right and centre and conceding very few. It's going
to be tough."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
England manager Gareth Southgate considers handing West Ham striker Andy
Carroll a second chance
Andy Carroll will hope to convince Gareth Southgate of his worth for England
Southgate is expected to be at the London Stadium for West Ham vs Chelsea
28-year-old Hammers striker was in fine form before his latest injury
setback
England boss has focused on visiting Premier League clubs' training grounds
By Kieran Gill for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 22:57, 5 March 2017 | UPDATED: 23:00, 5 March 2017

Gareth Southgate is expected at the London Stadium on Monday night,
potentially giving West Ham striker Andy Carroll a second chance to impress
the England manager. Southgate opted against attending a game on Saturday
and Sunday but has the opportunity to watch West Ham vs Chelsea. It comes
after Southgate travelled to London in February to run the rule over Carroll
– though that turned into a wasted trip. The 28-year-old was left out of the
squad against West Brom due to a groin injury and has not played since
February 4.
Yet he has trained with West Ham's first team this week, and is likely to
feature against Chelsea with Michail Antonio absent due to a ban. Southgate
is aiming to announce his squad for England's upcoming international
fixtures on March 16 – six days before a friendly against Germany. He will
decide during the day on Monday morning whether to attend West Ham vs
Chelsea, with the 46-year-old currently focusing on visiting Premier League
clubs' training grounds. It is in an effort to ensure the relationship
between club and country is amicable.

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