Moyes: We will go to Everton with confidence
WHUFC.com
David Moyes says West Ham United will go to Everton on Wednesday evening with 'a bit of confidence' after an improved performance against Leicester City. The Hammers came from a goal down to deservedly equalise at London Stadium in Moyes' first home game in charge, before producing a spirited second-half performance inspired by the Claret and Blue Army. Now, Moyes is hoping his players can give him a winning return to Goodison Park, a ground where he spent eleven years as manager from 2003-14...
The players deserved fans' applause
I thought we were a little bit unlucky to go a goal behind, as I don't think Leicester had been in our box prior to that. It was a bit of character that we showed because it could easily have gone under after that, but we dug in. I don't think we played as well as we should have in the first half, but we still warranted going in drawing and thankfully we got the goal just before half-time. I thought the second half was a lot more like us and more like the crowd and it was more like Upton Park for me, and there was a period in the game of about ten minutes when the crowd were right behind the team and we need it, we really do. The second half, it was terrific the way the supporters got behind us and I think they got behind us because they saw the effort from the players. It goes hand-in-hand. I thought the players worked hard and deserved the applause they got at the final whistle, because when we went 1-0 down, they didn't boo because they understand the game and in the opening nine or ten minutes we hadn't deserved to go 1-0 down. The players stuck at it and got the goal and I have to say I thought the players did a great job in the second half with their aptitude and the way they went about it.
We still have plenty of improvements to make
There are bits we are going to have to do loads and loads better, but I have to say we are trying to do the basics right for now. I have to say that don't think because they ran hard or did a few sprints more than they have done previously that we are there, because those should be a given in every game, really. I've said to the players that I thought that work was good, but that our play and our passing in the final third could be better. We had some good play, but I thought we could have had some moments of even better play.
I hope to see more from Marko
I thought Marko Arnautovic was very good on Friday night. He not only delivered three or four very dangerous crosses, but he also did the other side of the game and tracked back, which is he knows he has to do. You wouldn't want to play against him if he can deliver that quality and we just need to make sure keeps it up. He got a kick and an injury just before half-time and was limping around but I wanted him to carry on and he did. He seemed OK at half-time and he did carry on. In the end it caught up on him it didn't look too severe and hopefully he should be OK.
I'd love to make a winning Goodison return
We go to Everton with a bit of confidence now. It was important that we won on Friday night, but it was probably more important that we didn't lose. We take that into Wednesday's game and I am personally really looking forward to going back to Everton. I've been back a few times and not been that successful on my other visits, so I'm hoping that this one can be. It's a special place for me because of the years I spent there and also because of the people I worked with, many of whom are still there behind the scenes. I'll enjoy going back but I'm only interested in West Ham now and getting a win for West Ham is all that matters.
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Karen Ray: Our big dream for West Ham United Ladies
WHUFC.com
As West Ham United Ladies continue the application process for a license to play in the top division of the restructured FA Women's Super League from 2018/19, general manager Karen Ray has penned a column on the side's journey:
Being part of West Ham United requires patience, belief and an intense desire. The club has history; full of pride, character and a legacy to maintain. At the Ladies, we are trying to inherit all of these wonderful characteristics, while also setting out to ensure that the culture shift and engagement are our mechanisms for exceptional success in our own right. As they say; a flock of birds flying in formation is 70% more efficient than flying solo.
Character begins with humility, I am not ashamed to admit that without the overwhelming support of everyone at the club we would not be where we are today. The marketing team, led by Karim Virani have been instrumental in supporting the application and have shown an undeniable amount of dedication.
Anyone associated with West Ham United requires an incalculable amount of authenticity. Every member of this club must trust in the sense of safe vulnerability with honesty and integrity. It is no secret that we are aiming for the highest cloud and we have built a great synergy within the club because of our passion. Women's football is finally beginning to emerge from the dark and we are hoping to become part of the most exciting sporting culture at the highest level of the game. We urge you all to join us as we create a legacy, making the intangible real. Support us as we make a purposeful contribution to the club.
Let's capitalize on the opportunity to bridge the gap by promoting equality in football and opening new doors for young girls by ambitiously creating future stars within the game. I would like to end by wishing our Managing Director, Jack Sullivan, a very happy birthday from everyone at West Ham United Ladies.
We are all truly grateful for your efforts, belief and contribution to put the Ladies at the forefront.
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Hammers bested by C&K Basildon
WHUFC.com
Five goals conceded in the first half saw West Ham United Ladies fell to a 7-3 home defeat at the hands of C&K Basildon.
The Irons found themselves 3-0 down early on in the contest and were 5-1 adrift heading into the break after a disappointing opening period, with Molly Peters scoring for the Hammers.
The home side continued to battle in the second half but, despite finishes from Ellie Zoepfl and Rosie Kmita, could not come back against a Basildon side that have now won their last five league games.
The Hammers had a mountain to climb after just 11 minutes of action at Rush Green as Basildon caught out the home side with their first three attacks.
Bowers fired the away team in front from a free-kick in the third minute of the contest, while Basildon had doubled their advantage just moments later through a Revell header.
The task was made even harder when Bowers got her second and her side's third, after the ball was played into the midfielder, allowing her to slot home.
Despite the deficit West Ham showed sparks of quality. Rosie Kmita's long-ranged attempt was well saved while Zoe Swift almost caused Basildon to net an own-goal after a mazy run.
The two forwards combined to put pressure on Basildon but the scoreline became 4-0 when Addison broke through the back-line to score just a few minutes before half-time.
There was still time for Basildon to net a fifth before the break as well, as another header found the back of the net through Jay Blackie, although Molly Peters reduced the defecit ahead of the half-time whistle.
Swift was once again involved after the half-time interval as she saw two efforts well saved but Basildon added a sixth – with Bowers getting her hat-trick – not long after.
Zoepfl's half-volley – a terrific finish from the edge of the area – gave West Ham a second before Rosie Kmita added a third from close range, although the away side had scored their seventh between the two goals.
Zoepfl would also hit the post but it was Basildon who ran out winners following their impressive first half.
West Ham United: Kanto; Mackie, Wheeler, Austin, Auguste; Stobbs (c), Georgiou, Zoepfl, R Kmita; Peters (Cooper'), Swift
Subs not used Chong, Salcedo, Shannon, M Kmita
Goals: Peters 45', Zoepfl 80', R Kmita 87'
C&K Basildon: Runnacles, Manning, West, Revell, Duchar-Clark, Rushen, Blackie, Bowers, Nash, Addison, Addison
Subs: Rodney, Stimson, Wakefield
Goals: Bowers 2' 11' 67', Revell 7', Addison 38' 83', Blackie 43'
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C&K Basildon 'punished' West Ham's mistakes – De Carnys
WHUFC.com
Mistakes by West Ham United Ladies were 'punished' by C&K Basildon in the Irons' 7-3 defeat, according to manager Greg de Carnys.
Three goals in the opening 11 minutes of Sunday's contest at Rush Green – and five before half-time – put Basildon on the way to victory against the Hammers.
West Ham tried to fight back through goals from Molly Peters, Ellie Zoepfl and Rosie Kmita but conceded twice more in the second period as well in a disappointing result for the home side.
De Carnys has pointed to his team's poor start to the match as the catalyst for the heavy defeat and believes individual mistakes were pounced upon by Basildon.
"We didn't start well enough," De Carnys told whufc.com. "We can't defend the manner in which we started the game. There were individual errors and a lack of urgency, and C&K Basildon punished us for it.
"I feel like they did that all afternoon; they punished us every time we made a silly mistake, and there were a few of them today. It's disappointing.
"I felt like we'd been training well. We prepared the team properly but unfortunately, especially in the first 25 minutes, we weren't at the races. It wasn't good enough."
Prior to Sunday's match the Ladies had been without a match for two weeks, due to a last-minute fixture change – a scenario that De Carnys had confessed to being a bit concerned about before playing C&K Basildon.
The coach believes, having seen his side lose in the manner they did, that the unexpected break did have a negative impact on his team.
De Carnys added: "In hindsight, we'd have to say that break potentially had an impact.
"I said before the game that I felt we had worked well over the last two weeks and I didn't sense any complacency in the team. When the game kicked off though there were certainly people that weren't at it. We've got to make sure we don't let that happen again."
Positives were admittedly difficult for De Carnys to find following the loss but the manager was happy to see his side score three times and compete better in the second period.
"I think if you're looking for positives, we scored three and we've had a lot of chances and could've scored more. I think it was slightly better in the second half, although the damage was already done by that stage.
"Thankfully we don't have to look at that sort of score very often and we shouldn't be allowing it to happen. Hopefully it's a one-off."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, November 26
Saturday, November 25
Daily WHUFC News - 26th November 2017
Cresswell: Friday's game gives us a foundation
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell believes Friday's battling draw against Leicester City gives West Ham United a foundation to build from as new boss David Moyes looks to put his stamp on the club. The Hammers travel to the boss's former side Everton in midweek looking for their first league win since the end of September and Scouser Cresswell says Friday's performance gives them confidence that run can some to an end in his home city. "A draw is a little disappointing, but a point is a point and we'll build towards Wednesday's game against Everton now," the left back said. "The new manager has lifted the place, but we just need that little bit of luck now to get that win and push up the table. "Friday gave us something to build on, and gives us that belief going into Wednesday. We pressed a bit more against Leicester, pushing them backwards and trying to get on the front foot We're definitely going to go to Everton and look for the three points."
Cresswell also had praise for the London Stadium crowd, who got behind their team with fervour on Friday and played their part in getting the result. He added: "Going a goal down so early, they could easily have turned but credit to them they were fantastic. They gave us a lift and I think there was a period of the game when for 15, 20 minutes nobody sat on their seat and they were all up pushing us forward. "We know where we are in the league is nowhere near good enough, but the crowd were fantastic. It gives us that lift and with nearly 60,000 fans behind you it's fantastic. The main thing is us giving them something to shout about.
"If we play like that and have that attitude I'm sure we'll push up the league."
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Zabaleta hails 'incredible' Claret and Blue Army
WHUFC.com
Pablo Zabaleta paid tribute to the 'incredible' Claret and Blue Army following Friday's 1-1 Premier League draw with Leicester City at London Stadium. The West Ham United fans created the best atmosphere of the season in David Moyes' first home game in charge and the team responded with arguably their best performance of the campaign on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. In the second half, especially, the supporters raised the roof and urged their team forward, but ultimately the Hammers could not fashion the winner their overall performance arguably deserved. "We must say 'Thank you' to the fans because they were incredible and brilliant during the whole game," said the right-back. "We know that they probably want to see the team in a better place in the table, I know that, but at least we tried to win the game. "They saw the team with a different attitude tonight and, as I said, they were incredible, so thank you for the great support."
The vociferous backing undoubtedly spurred West Ham on as they dominated for long periods and forced Leicester onto the back foot, but Zabaleta knows the team will have to produce greater quality in the attacking third if they are to turn draws into wins going forward. "A point is a point but for me it's not enough. We were looking for the three points and that's what we needed, but apart from that the attitude was a lot better than the last game and the team looks a lot more organised. "We pressed a lot better and in the second half we were the team looking to win the game. We pressed forward and had a few chances but we couldn't win the game. "It's a shame when you try everything and you cannot get the three points. In the situation we're in at the moment, a point is not enough."
West Ham's fitness levels have clearly risen since Moyes' arrival and the post-match statistics confirmed they both outran and outsprinted the Foxes. That, said the Argentinian, will be a prerequisite at Everton on Wednesday evening, at Manchester City next weekend and in every Premier League fixture going forward. "The intensity was a lot better. We were more organised and we played as a team. The team spirit was completely different from the last game and we did everything to try to score the second goal. "They were defending so deep and well and we couldn't find the second goal. "Of course, a clean sheet is important for us. We conceded another early goal but our reaction was much better and we need to keep improving on that. "The Everton game is going to be another huge game. We've got three massive games against three big teams and that's why we need to get the result on Wednesday."
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Nathan Trott: U23s were 'off the mark' against Arsenal
WHUFC.com
Nathan Trott believes a poor opening period to Friday's game against Arsenal cost West Ham United U23s after the side fell to a 3-0 defeat. Despite Trott putting in a terrific showing in goal the Hammers were bested by Arsenal thanks to a brace from Vlad Dragomir and a second-half finish by Eddie Nketiah. The opening goal of the match came after just six minutes and Trott feels it was this slow opening for West Ham that saw Arsenal take control of the fixture. "I think we were off the mark a bit today," the goalkeeper told whufc.com. "We gave them a bit too much space and I think a team of that quality can get you. We lost 3-0 today and, for games like this against top teams, we have to be a bit more disciplined. "We have to be focused from the start but we reacted too late and I think by the time we had reacted Arsenal had scored a couple of goals, which makes it very hard to turn the game around and get into the lead."
Even though West Ham were beaten by Arsenal Trott's individual performance was worthy of praise, with Academy director Terry Westley even singling out the shot-stopper for his showing. The 19-year-old saved a first-half penalty and insists he will always try to help the team in any way he can. Trott modestly said, when asked about the penalty save: "I expect these games to be busy so I was just doing my job and trying to help the team as much as possible. "The thing about penalties is, if you're going to choose one way, you have to make sure you give it 100 per cent. Don't second guess yourself. Pick one way and go for it – it worked out for me."
It won't be long before the U23s are back in action as Westley's side prepares to take on Wycombe Wanderers in the final group stage contest of the Checkatrade Trophy. Trott is eager for the team to show more aggression and strength in Tuesday's match, with top spot in the group up for grabs. "Wycombe will be a big game. It will be a physical game like the others. We have to be prepared for that. We have to be a bit more aggressive. It's good we've qualified. We want to keep that form going with another good game."
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AS ALWAYS WITH WEST HAM UNITED THERE IS STILL HOPE!
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 NOVEMBER 2017 AT 10:52AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is written by FarehamHammer
Does it ever stop!? A geezer say's to me "You will be pleased! Gold and Sullivan are selling up! Robert Mugabe is buying The Club" Bloody West Ham, even in crisis they bring a smile to your face. Let us not kid ourselves, we are in deep trouble on and off the pitch. But we are by no means out for the count… just yet, but things have to change on and off the pitch quickly. I will tell you when a club is finished, it is when huge defeats or poor performances no longer matter. The end result being that supporters appear to be in the final stage of grievance. Acceptance, denial, anger, bargaining and depression have gone. As one could have seen from the chants at the Watford game of "Sack the Board" we are far from ready to accept our lot. It is simple really, if we did we would almost certainly be relegated. If that were to happen we could well end up like Coventry City or worse.
West Ham have always had a passionate and loyal fan, a 'broad church' people with different opinions. There is huge dissatisfaction regards The Board, we have been told lie upon lie! ABSOLUTE CRAP! Left the Boleyn so that we could reach 'the next level', that looks to be The Championship at this rate. Phantom bid after phantom bid, leaked to the media during the summer transfer window. Lies, lies sweet little lies. Christ on a bike! They even had Mrs Brady invite all the fanzine owners for a meeting, and told them: "We had a 'substantial' transfer budget". Old Fareham could not stop laughing! Thank f**k I was not at the meeting I would of told Mrs Brady a thing or two! Believe me. Mrs Brady is rude, arrogant and thinks West Ham fans are beneath her. Always looking to have a dig at West Ham fans, whether it's about blue popcorn, wanting Spurs to win the league, always ready to niggle us Hammers.
Her dig at Slaven Bilic in The Sun regarding his sacking sums her up completely. Devoid of any class, the relationship between Mrs Brady and the fans is toxic, it's destroying The Club. She MUST go! Although calling her a C*** is bang out of order. Who can replace her? It's obvious! One of our own Sir Trevor Brooking. Trevor knows football inside out, and is an astute businessman. It would be a huge step in the right direction in my opinion. It would help unite The Club that is for sure. So what of The Owners themselves? Well that is a bit more complex in my humble opinion. Do I buy into the notion that they sold The Boleyn to make money? Absolutely! Did they think The London Stadium move would pan out like this, well it would be easy to say yes, but cast your mind back to a few seasons when we beat Chelsea 2-1 at The Boleyn, The game where Jose Mourinho got sent to the stands. Remember the photo in the papers of Messrs Gold and Sullivan GOING OFF THEIR NUT IN THE DIRECTOR'S BOX?? You are all intelligent enough to make your own mind up. Do you really believe they thought: "Ha ha we are going to destroy West Ham and make a killing in the process" Don't think so. The move was on Brady's watch and she f***** up big time and they are having to deal with the consequences. Do the right think pay the £1.4 million bonus back Karren!
I have been beating the anti-board drum very hard lately, as like many I fear for The Club if we go down again. You have got to bear in mind, that The Owners have FOUR relegation's on their CV's. It is almost like your partner has cheated on you four times, you have taken them back each time, yet once again there are telling signs that they are back on the game. As for them selling up and someone buy us. Unfortunately there are no sugar daddy's waiting to snap the Club up, and splash millions in the transfer window. That is fantasy land stuff! The game is littered with Billionaires who have destroyed football Clubs. Still for West Ham to progress we are going to need to change the status quo. I think David Gold wants out anyway, his attitude towards fans on twitter says it all really. On more than one occasion he has deliberately tried to goad West Ham fans. Downright insulting at times. He always said if 87% of the fans wanted him out he would go. I can see Tripp Smith who recently bought a 10% stake in The Club buying Gold's shares. Which should definitely give us more cash in the transfer market. So what of David Sullivan the majority share-holder? I can't see him going anywhere.
Sullivan has come in for all sorts of abuse, some wishing he got cancer, another wishing that he dies. Some feeling that it's open season on his children David and Jack. Board out! Time to march or die! You destroyed our Club! Fine. But vicious personal abuse no! For God sake we are a decent lot our mob! The great Bobby Moore wiping his hands on the Royal Carpet, before receiving The World Cup from The Queen sums us up. Decency and respect that is West Ham. In the past Sullivan used to really piss me off gobbing off constantly. But he has certainly piped down a bit this season. I'm in favour of his sons Jack and David learning the ropes and taking over The Club. They have both been good to fans on numerous occasions, which does not surprise me as I have spoken to Sullivan twice and he came across well. Once I asked him to sign my nephew's Birthday Card which he did but had a parting shot: "I hope you are going to put something in the card as a present" he said. I was bloody speechless. As I have said many a time Sullivan DOES know how to run a Football Club. But far more investment is needed to see West Ham become one of the best clubs. Sullivan's way of doing business of one Marquee signing, one costing a reasonable amount, one a bit of money, the others being loans, and freebies or cheap gambles are simply not good enough for a Club hoping to progress. The times they are a changin your old road is agin Sullivan! Whether it be investment via Tripp Smith or from someone else we badly need a serious injection of cash. But board in and out, we can't blame them for everything, especially on the pitch. To put it bluntly we have been a bloody shambles on the pitch.
Some seem willing to throw in the towel after one defeat under David Moyes. Come on behave! The man is not the bloody wizard of Oz! He can't put everything right in a few training sessions. What he is going to have change is the midfield. No pace, creativity or movement, offering no protection for the back four, creating no chances for the striker. Leaving the likes of Javier Hernandez and Carroll isolated. People are going to call me a Noble 'hater' and the rest, he does wonderful work off the pitch representing The Club, which he rightly gets plaudits. However on the pitch he is a huge part of the problem. The opposition know he is the weak link and simply pass the ball around him, knowing he is so slow he has not a hope and hell of getting back. Slow pedestrian passing anywhere but forward is Markie Noble. Playing him is sentimentality gone mad. In game after game it costs us. It has even started to affect Kouyate and Obiang. Sort the midfield Moyesey and we will all be blowing bubbles in harmony again. Time to get behind the team (a repeat of last night), get a win, have a few JD's and then; Noble the best Captain, the Owners no complaints, Moyesey a top manager. It's funny what winning does to everyone. Players, fans, manager and The Board. Before I go I would to apologise for EX in calling him a Board 'lackey'. He is an extremely loyal and decent person who is loyal to his friends, West Ham and fans.
We are more than a football club, we're a way of life!
COYI!!
Farehamhammer!!!
(Edited by Danny Twigg)
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MARK WARD EXCLUSIVE: "LETS TAKE IT BACK TO BASICS AND MOVE FORWARD!"
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 NOVEMBER 2017 AT 11:25AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Mark Ward @Mark7Ward
It was on Wednesday night after The West Ham Way radio show that I received a phone call from Ex, who was uncharacteristically downbeat about the club. Fed up with the negativity, the infighting, the defeats, the lack of passion from certain players and without notice put me on the spot with "Wardy, what would you do if you were there?" and we ended up having a great discussion and I was asked to put it all down in writing. It is very hard to sum up a 45 minute conversation but some of the key things I said and would do, I have listed below:
Firstly I would look at the player's contracts. In this day and age there is too much earned by players just for having a contract at the club and if you are unhappy, a money grabber or just lacking in passion there is no incentive to try and contribute positively on the pitch. I would have a much more equal balance between basic wage and selection and performance related pay. Here is your weekly wage but (depending on position) if you do this and that in a game your wage increases to this. It isn't something you would have to do with many players in my day because we all played for the love of the game but in this modern era, where money and image seem to be the most important thing to some, it may get these players playing with more fight. This can also apply to younger players, there are under 21 players at most top teams now earning huge amounts of money for not even playing for the first team. Having been released by Everton as a kid I needed to fight my way back into this game via the non league and lower divisions with Northwich Victoria and Oldham and that made me appreciate playing even more when I eventually did return to the top division and the one thing you would never see myself doing as a player was not giving it 100% in every match-it should be the minimum expectation of any player.
Team spirit is another thing. Too often I see players arriving at games with huge headphones on and no interaction with each other. I have heard that this often happens on the coach to away games and in the team hotel where players often get their own rooms now. For me this takes away a lot of the spirit and heart from your club. Anyone who has ever been to our West Ham Way events or watched some of my interviews will know some of my best stories come from away trips with the likes of Frank McAvennie, Alvin Martin and Tony Gale! It was Ex who commented how, having got to know some of the boys of '86, how amazing it is that we are all still such good mates! We built that trust and friendship with each other which would last till the end of our days and carried us to wins that we may not have got had we not been fighting for each other. I would say to the players, no headphones, no mobiles when the players are together and try to encourage more interaction between them to build up these relationships. Team meals, nights out things like that go a long way.
Another key element for me is the fans. Yesterday reminded me of days gone by. We are West Ham United, we have never been the most successful of clubs however our fans stand second to none. I am very lucky to have played for clubs with extremely passionate support: West Ham, Everton, Manchester City and Birmingham City and I cannot tell you how much it makes you lift you game when the fans are onside and urging you on. No matter what goes on off the pitch, and I experienced a lot of things at those clubs, if the fans are on side immediately you feel there is even more fight in you to win the match.
West Ham are a great club and I am so thankful for my time there. Whatever you may think of things of the pitch, it is so important that we stick together and try and get the team away from the relegation zone and in the summer this is where the inquistions can begin.
For those of you who have been to our events you will know they are what makes West Ham good. A great atmosphere and remembering the good times. We are lucky enough to have former academy graduate, popular player and now academy coach Jack Collison with me on the stage for our Christmas event before Newcastle on the 23rd of December. We have great raffle prizes to give away including a match worn Danny Gabbidon shirt and tickets to the boxing day clash against Bournemouth amongst many other things. I hope to see some of you there! Get your tickets here: bit.ly/TWHWTICKET14
Now on to the match against Everton on Wednesday where both teams are desperate for the result, so I am going to hope for a draw! 😉 COYI
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell believes Friday's battling draw against Leicester City gives West Ham United a foundation to build from as new boss David Moyes looks to put his stamp on the club. The Hammers travel to the boss's former side Everton in midweek looking for their first league win since the end of September and Scouser Cresswell says Friday's performance gives them confidence that run can some to an end in his home city. "A draw is a little disappointing, but a point is a point and we'll build towards Wednesday's game against Everton now," the left back said. "The new manager has lifted the place, but we just need that little bit of luck now to get that win and push up the table. "Friday gave us something to build on, and gives us that belief going into Wednesday. We pressed a bit more against Leicester, pushing them backwards and trying to get on the front foot We're definitely going to go to Everton and look for the three points."
Cresswell also had praise for the London Stadium crowd, who got behind their team with fervour on Friday and played their part in getting the result. He added: "Going a goal down so early, they could easily have turned but credit to them they were fantastic. They gave us a lift and I think there was a period of the game when for 15, 20 minutes nobody sat on their seat and they were all up pushing us forward. "We know where we are in the league is nowhere near good enough, but the crowd were fantastic. It gives us that lift and with nearly 60,000 fans behind you it's fantastic. The main thing is us giving them something to shout about.
"If we play like that and have that attitude I'm sure we'll push up the league."
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Zabaleta hails 'incredible' Claret and Blue Army
WHUFC.com
Pablo Zabaleta paid tribute to the 'incredible' Claret and Blue Army following Friday's 1-1 Premier League draw with Leicester City at London Stadium. The West Ham United fans created the best atmosphere of the season in David Moyes' first home game in charge and the team responded with arguably their best performance of the campaign on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. In the second half, especially, the supporters raised the roof and urged their team forward, but ultimately the Hammers could not fashion the winner their overall performance arguably deserved. "We must say 'Thank you' to the fans because they were incredible and brilliant during the whole game," said the right-back. "We know that they probably want to see the team in a better place in the table, I know that, but at least we tried to win the game. "They saw the team with a different attitude tonight and, as I said, they were incredible, so thank you for the great support."
The vociferous backing undoubtedly spurred West Ham on as they dominated for long periods and forced Leicester onto the back foot, but Zabaleta knows the team will have to produce greater quality in the attacking third if they are to turn draws into wins going forward. "A point is a point but for me it's not enough. We were looking for the three points and that's what we needed, but apart from that the attitude was a lot better than the last game and the team looks a lot more organised. "We pressed a lot better and in the second half we were the team looking to win the game. We pressed forward and had a few chances but we couldn't win the game. "It's a shame when you try everything and you cannot get the three points. In the situation we're in at the moment, a point is not enough."
West Ham's fitness levels have clearly risen since Moyes' arrival and the post-match statistics confirmed they both outran and outsprinted the Foxes. That, said the Argentinian, will be a prerequisite at Everton on Wednesday evening, at Manchester City next weekend and in every Premier League fixture going forward. "The intensity was a lot better. We were more organised and we played as a team. The team spirit was completely different from the last game and we did everything to try to score the second goal. "They were defending so deep and well and we couldn't find the second goal. "Of course, a clean sheet is important for us. We conceded another early goal but our reaction was much better and we need to keep improving on that. "The Everton game is going to be another huge game. We've got three massive games against three big teams and that's why we need to get the result on Wednesday."
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Nathan Trott: U23s were 'off the mark' against Arsenal
WHUFC.com
Nathan Trott believes a poor opening period to Friday's game against Arsenal cost West Ham United U23s after the side fell to a 3-0 defeat. Despite Trott putting in a terrific showing in goal the Hammers were bested by Arsenal thanks to a brace from Vlad Dragomir and a second-half finish by Eddie Nketiah. The opening goal of the match came after just six minutes and Trott feels it was this slow opening for West Ham that saw Arsenal take control of the fixture. "I think we were off the mark a bit today," the goalkeeper told whufc.com. "We gave them a bit too much space and I think a team of that quality can get you. We lost 3-0 today and, for games like this against top teams, we have to be a bit more disciplined. "We have to be focused from the start but we reacted too late and I think by the time we had reacted Arsenal had scored a couple of goals, which makes it very hard to turn the game around and get into the lead."
Even though West Ham were beaten by Arsenal Trott's individual performance was worthy of praise, with Academy director Terry Westley even singling out the shot-stopper for his showing. The 19-year-old saved a first-half penalty and insists he will always try to help the team in any way he can. Trott modestly said, when asked about the penalty save: "I expect these games to be busy so I was just doing my job and trying to help the team as much as possible. "The thing about penalties is, if you're going to choose one way, you have to make sure you give it 100 per cent. Don't second guess yourself. Pick one way and go for it – it worked out for me."
It won't be long before the U23s are back in action as Westley's side prepares to take on Wycombe Wanderers in the final group stage contest of the Checkatrade Trophy. Trott is eager for the team to show more aggression and strength in Tuesday's match, with top spot in the group up for grabs. "Wycombe will be a big game. It will be a physical game like the others. We have to be prepared for that. We have to be a bit more aggressive. It's good we've qualified. We want to keep that form going with another good game."
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AS ALWAYS WITH WEST HAM UNITED THERE IS STILL HOPE!
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 NOVEMBER 2017 AT 10:52AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is written by FarehamHammer
Does it ever stop!? A geezer say's to me "You will be pleased! Gold and Sullivan are selling up! Robert Mugabe is buying The Club" Bloody West Ham, even in crisis they bring a smile to your face. Let us not kid ourselves, we are in deep trouble on and off the pitch. But we are by no means out for the count… just yet, but things have to change on and off the pitch quickly. I will tell you when a club is finished, it is when huge defeats or poor performances no longer matter. The end result being that supporters appear to be in the final stage of grievance. Acceptance, denial, anger, bargaining and depression have gone. As one could have seen from the chants at the Watford game of "Sack the Board" we are far from ready to accept our lot. It is simple really, if we did we would almost certainly be relegated. If that were to happen we could well end up like Coventry City or worse.
West Ham have always had a passionate and loyal fan, a 'broad church' people with different opinions. There is huge dissatisfaction regards The Board, we have been told lie upon lie! ABSOLUTE CRAP! Left the Boleyn so that we could reach 'the next level', that looks to be The Championship at this rate. Phantom bid after phantom bid, leaked to the media during the summer transfer window. Lies, lies sweet little lies. Christ on a bike! They even had Mrs Brady invite all the fanzine owners for a meeting, and told them: "We had a 'substantial' transfer budget". Old Fareham could not stop laughing! Thank f**k I was not at the meeting I would of told Mrs Brady a thing or two! Believe me. Mrs Brady is rude, arrogant and thinks West Ham fans are beneath her. Always looking to have a dig at West Ham fans, whether it's about blue popcorn, wanting Spurs to win the league, always ready to niggle us Hammers.
Her dig at Slaven Bilic in The Sun regarding his sacking sums her up completely. Devoid of any class, the relationship between Mrs Brady and the fans is toxic, it's destroying The Club. She MUST go! Although calling her a C*** is bang out of order. Who can replace her? It's obvious! One of our own Sir Trevor Brooking. Trevor knows football inside out, and is an astute businessman. It would be a huge step in the right direction in my opinion. It would help unite The Club that is for sure. So what of The Owners themselves? Well that is a bit more complex in my humble opinion. Do I buy into the notion that they sold The Boleyn to make money? Absolutely! Did they think The London Stadium move would pan out like this, well it would be easy to say yes, but cast your mind back to a few seasons when we beat Chelsea 2-1 at The Boleyn, The game where Jose Mourinho got sent to the stands. Remember the photo in the papers of Messrs Gold and Sullivan GOING OFF THEIR NUT IN THE DIRECTOR'S BOX?? You are all intelligent enough to make your own mind up. Do you really believe they thought: "Ha ha we are going to destroy West Ham and make a killing in the process" Don't think so. The move was on Brady's watch and she f***** up big time and they are having to deal with the consequences. Do the right think pay the £1.4 million bonus back Karren!
I have been beating the anti-board drum very hard lately, as like many I fear for The Club if we go down again. You have got to bear in mind, that The Owners have FOUR relegation's on their CV's. It is almost like your partner has cheated on you four times, you have taken them back each time, yet once again there are telling signs that they are back on the game. As for them selling up and someone buy us. Unfortunately there are no sugar daddy's waiting to snap the Club up, and splash millions in the transfer window. That is fantasy land stuff! The game is littered with Billionaires who have destroyed football Clubs. Still for West Ham to progress we are going to need to change the status quo. I think David Gold wants out anyway, his attitude towards fans on twitter says it all really. On more than one occasion he has deliberately tried to goad West Ham fans. Downright insulting at times. He always said if 87% of the fans wanted him out he would go. I can see Tripp Smith who recently bought a 10% stake in The Club buying Gold's shares. Which should definitely give us more cash in the transfer market. So what of David Sullivan the majority share-holder? I can't see him going anywhere.
Sullivan has come in for all sorts of abuse, some wishing he got cancer, another wishing that he dies. Some feeling that it's open season on his children David and Jack. Board out! Time to march or die! You destroyed our Club! Fine. But vicious personal abuse no! For God sake we are a decent lot our mob! The great Bobby Moore wiping his hands on the Royal Carpet, before receiving The World Cup from The Queen sums us up. Decency and respect that is West Ham. In the past Sullivan used to really piss me off gobbing off constantly. But he has certainly piped down a bit this season. I'm in favour of his sons Jack and David learning the ropes and taking over The Club. They have both been good to fans on numerous occasions, which does not surprise me as I have spoken to Sullivan twice and he came across well. Once I asked him to sign my nephew's Birthday Card which he did but had a parting shot: "I hope you are going to put something in the card as a present" he said. I was bloody speechless. As I have said many a time Sullivan DOES know how to run a Football Club. But far more investment is needed to see West Ham become one of the best clubs. Sullivan's way of doing business of one Marquee signing, one costing a reasonable amount, one a bit of money, the others being loans, and freebies or cheap gambles are simply not good enough for a Club hoping to progress. The times they are a changin your old road is agin Sullivan! Whether it be investment via Tripp Smith or from someone else we badly need a serious injection of cash. But board in and out, we can't blame them for everything, especially on the pitch. To put it bluntly we have been a bloody shambles on the pitch.
Some seem willing to throw in the towel after one defeat under David Moyes. Come on behave! The man is not the bloody wizard of Oz! He can't put everything right in a few training sessions. What he is going to have change is the midfield. No pace, creativity or movement, offering no protection for the back four, creating no chances for the striker. Leaving the likes of Javier Hernandez and Carroll isolated. People are going to call me a Noble 'hater' and the rest, he does wonderful work off the pitch representing The Club, which he rightly gets plaudits. However on the pitch he is a huge part of the problem. The opposition know he is the weak link and simply pass the ball around him, knowing he is so slow he has not a hope and hell of getting back. Slow pedestrian passing anywhere but forward is Markie Noble. Playing him is sentimentality gone mad. In game after game it costs us. It has even started to affect Kouyate and Obiang. Sort the midfield Moyesey and we will all be blowing bubbles in harmony again. Time to get behind the team (a repeat of last night), get a win, have a few JD's and then; Noble the best Captain, the Owners no complaints, Moyesey a top manager. It's funny what winning does to everyone. Players, fans, manager and The Board. Before I go I would to apologise for EX in calling him a Board 'lackey'. He is an extremely loyal and decent person who is loyal to his friends, West Ham and fans.
We are more than a football club, we're a way of life!
COYI!!
Farehamhammer!!!
(Edited by Danny Twigg)
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MARK WARD EXCLUSIVE: "LETS TAKE IT BACK TO BASICS AND MOVE FORWARD!"
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 25 NOVEMBER 2017 AT 11:25AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Mark Ward @Mark7Ward
It was on Wednesday night after The West Ham Way radio show that I received a phone call from Ex, who was uncharacteristically downbeat about the club. Fed up with the negativity, the infighting, the defeats, the lack of passion from certain players and without notice put me on the spot with "Wardy, what would you do if you were there?" and we ended up having a great discussion and I was asked to put it all down in writing. It is very hard to sum up a 45 minute conversation but some of the key things I said and would do, I have listed below:
Firstly I would look at the player's contracts. In this day and age there is too much earned by players just for having a contract at the club and if you are unhappy, a money grabber or just lacking in passion there is no incentive to try and contribute positively on the pitch. I would have a much more equal balance between basic wage and selection and performance related pay. Here is your weekly wage but (depending on position) if you do this and that in a game your wage increases to this. It isn't something you would have to do with many players in my day because we all played for the love of the game but in this modern era, where money and image seem to be the most important thing to some, it may get these players playing with more fight. This can also apply to younger players, there are under 21 players at most top teams now earning huge amounts of money for not even playing for the first team. Having been released by Everton as a kid I needed to fight my way back into this game via the non league and lower divisions with Northwich Victoria and Oldham and that made me appreciate playing even more when I eventually did return to the top division and the one thing you would never see myself doing as a player was not giving it 100% in every match-it should be the minimum expectation of any player.
Team spirit is another thing. Too often I see players arriving at games with huge headphones on and no interaction with each other. I have heard that this often happens on the coach to away games and in the team hotel where players often get their own rooms now. For me this takes away a lot of the spirit and heart from your club. Anyone who has ever been to our West Ham Way events or watched some of my interviews will know some of my best stories come from away trips with the likes of Frank McAvennie, Alvin Martin and Tony Gale! It was Ex who commented how, having got to know some of the boys of '86, how amazing it is that we are all still such good mates! We built that trust and friendship with each other which would last till the end of our days and carried us to wins that we may not have got had we not been fighting for each other. I would say to the players, no headphones, no mobiles when the players are together and try to encourage more interaction between them to build up these relationships. Team meals, nights out things like that go a long way.
Another key element for me is the fans. Yesterday reminded me of days gone by. We are West Ham United, we have never been the most successful of clubs however our fans stand second to none. I am very lucky to have played for clubs with extremely passionate support: West Ham, Everton, Manchester City and Birmingham City and I cannot tell you how much it makes you lift you game when the fans are onside and urging you on. No matter what goes on off the pitch, and I experienced a lot of things at those clubs, if the fans are on side immediately you feel there is even more fight in you to win the match.
West Ham are a great club and I am so thankful for my time there. Whatever you may think of things of the pitch, it is so important that we stick together and try and get the team away from the relegation zone and in the summer this is where the inquistions can begin.
For those of you who have been to our events you will know they are what makes West Ham good. A great atmosphere and remembering the good times. We are lucky enough to have former academy graduate, popular player and now academy coach Jack Collison with me on the stage for our Christmas event before Newcastle on the 23rd of December. We have great raffle prizes to give away including a match worn Danny Gabbidon shirt and tickets to the boxing day clash against Bournemouth amongst many other things. I hope to see some of you there! Get your tickets here: bit.ly/TWHWTICKET14
Now on to the match against Everton on Wednesday where both teams are desperate for the result, so I am going to hope for a draw! 😉 COYI
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Daily WHUFC News - 25th November 2017
Kouyate header earns Hammers Leicester point
WHUFC.com
West Ham United 1 – 1 Leicester City
Premier League
Cheikhou Kouyate's header earned David Moyes his first point as West Ham
United manager as his side fought back well to draw 1-1 with Leicester City
on Friday night. The Hammers had to recover from the early blow of falling
behind to Marc Albrighton's eighth minute opener, and they showed great
spirit to do just that.
Kouyate rose highest to nod home a Manuel Lanzini corner on the stroke of
half-time and it was the Hammers, backed by a tremendous atmosphere inside
London Stadium, who remained on the front foot after the break. Joe Hart was
barely tested in goal in the second period as the hosts searched for a way
through, but they could not break down a stubborn Foxes defence again and
had to settle for a point. Moyes made one change from the side which faced
Watford in his first game as Hammers boss, with Arthur Masuaku coming in for
Mark Noble, but his team made a similar start to that Vicarage Road. There
were just eight minutes on the clock when Jamie Vardy fashioned space on the
left to cross. His low delivery eluded Angelo Ogbonna and Albrighton had
moved in from the flank to steer home.
Vardy's pace threatened to create another chance midway through the half
when he burst into life in the left channel and nicked the ball inside
Winston Reid, but Marko Arnautovic had tracked back diligently to shepherd
the England striker away from danger. It was an excellent piece of defending
and the Hammers almost took full advantage on 26 minutes when Masuaku's
strong run forward was halted illegally outside the box and Lanzini's
delivery was flicked goalwards by Ogbonna, forcing a save from Kasper
Schmeichel. The Hammers were trying to get on the front foot, but had to be
wary of Leicester's pace on the counter and Riyad Mahrez made a couple of
probing runs as time wore on before the break, calling Hart into action with
one rising effort from 20 yards. At the other end, the hosts' fashioned an
opportunity for Kouyate eight minutes before the interval, but he could only
nod wide after Cresswell crossed wickedly from the left. Right on the stroke
of half-time the Senegal midfielder more than made up for it, rising in the
centre to head Lanzini's corner goalwards with enough force that Danny
Simpson's shoulder couldn't keep it out on the line.
It was an impressive response to the early blow of falling behind and
Masuaku tried to drive the Hammers yet further forward early after the
restart, making Schmeichel hold his testing cross-shot as he drove on down
the left. Arnautovic was continuing to put a real shift in and he got across
his man to meet a Lanzini cross on 63 minutes, but from his position in
front of the near post he couldn't force the ball on target. Although West
Ham were having the better of the game, clear chances were difficult to come
by as the game looked to be heading for a draw. There was time for one more
opportunity when sub Andre Ayew acroatically attempted to score in the
aftermath of a late corner, but the ball flew over the bar and the Hammers
had to settle for a well-earned point.
West Ham United: Hart, Zabaleta, Reid (c), Ogbonna, Cresswell, Obiang,
Kouyate, Arnautovic (Ayew 69), Lanzini, Masuaku (Sakho 90+2), Carroll
Subs: Adrian, Noble, Fernandes, Quina, Rice
Goal: Kouyate 45
Booked: Ayew
Leicester City: Schmeichel, Simpson, Morgan (c), Maguire, Fuchs, Ndidi,
Iborra, Albrighton, Mahrez (Chilwell 70), Gray (Slimani 90+1), Vardy
Subs: Hamer, Iheanacho, King, Dragovic, Okazaki
Goal: Albrighton 8
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Attendance: 56,897
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Arnautovic: We are progressing
WHIFC.com
Marko Arnautovic felt Friday's 1-1 draw with Leicester City shows the
Hammers are making progress in the early days of David Moyes' reign as
manager. Cheikhou Kouyate's header on the stroke of half-time cancelled out
Marc Albrighton's early opener and West Ham remained on the front foot in
the second half as they searched for a winner. Backed by the tremendous
support of the London Stadium crowd the Hammers probed, and although they
could not find a way through a stubborn Foxes defence for a second time,
Arnautovic was pleased with how the hosts responded. He also had praise for
the fans' vocal support and wants to reward them with victories as soon as
possible. He said: "I think we deserved more and from my point of view we
were the better team. We know we are not in an easy situation, but I think
we are progressing. "The fans today were so loud. The last weeks have not
been what everyone wanted and we know they are disappointed because we're
not bringing the results, but they were behind us and they gave everything
like we did on the pitch. "I hope we can continue like that, and that we can
have a lot of joy, but we need to win the games. "We came good after the
goal. We said 'come on let's do this, we need to fight, we need to win and
we need to get our goals'. "We got it [the equaliser] before half time and
we had a few chances. Let's now be okay with a point and move on."
From a personal point of view, Arnautovic contributed at both ends of the
pitch, supplying seven crosses as well as doing his defensive duty
diligently and he feels he is getting back to form. He added: "It was hard
for me at the beginning of the season. I got the red card, then I was ill
when we played Swansea and it was hard mentally for me, but I think I'm
ready, I'm fit and I hope I can give everything for West Ham. "I'm not here
for no reason, and I want to show the fans, the players and everyone
involved at West Ham that they can count on me. Last week I had [the injury]
with my hand and on Friday I had a bang on my knee. "I tried to run it off,
but I don't want to hurt the team. If there are players with fresh legs who
can help the team, I don't want to be the man who can't move any more.
"I want to help the team, I want to give assists and score goals. Hopefully
that can come in the future."
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Moyes praises players and fans after London Stadium debut
WHUFC.com
David Moyes praised both his West Ham United players and the Claret and Blue
Army for helping the Hammers to a hard-earned 1-1 Premier League draw with
Leicester City. The Scot marked his first home game in charge with a
deserved point as Cheikhou Kouyate's equaliser on the stroke of half-time
cancelled out Marc Albrighton's early opener. With the London Stadium
faithful in great voice, Moyes' team went in search of a winner their
overall performance arguably deserved, but ultimately the Hammers had to
settle for a share of the spoils. "It was a start for us tonight. It's not
been the best place for us, but I thought the players' performance warranted
more. I thought the crowd were fantastic, so all the negatives I've heard
about the crowd, I thought the opposite and that they were great, they
really were. "I think any player will tell you that West Ham has always been
a tough place to come over the years, with a tough crowd and they can make
it that way in this stadium as well, and I think they did tonight. "I
thought they got right behind the players, but I also thought the players
gave them something to shout about as well."
The second half may not have brought a winning goal for the hosts, but they
controlled the game for long periods and went close on a number of
occasions, most notably through substitute Andre Ayew's overhead kick. "I
thought they were great in the second half and that's why the crowd reacted
so well," said Moyes.
"I think they are low on confidence as the results haven't gone well and
they lost a manager as well, and when it goes like that it's difficult and
you need some things to go for you now and again. "We lost a goal after
eight minutes when I don't know if Leicester had been up the pitch before
that. They stuck at it though, they really did, and the second half they
made a really good go of it and in the end we might have nicked it."
Two players who caught the eye were wingers Marko Arnautovic and Arthur
Masuaku, who gave Leicester full-backs Danny Simpson and Christian Fuchs a
tough time with their power, pace and direct running. The pair delivered 15
of West Ham's 31 crosses and generally pushed the Foxes onto the back foot
every time they took possession. "Marko played really well for us on Sunday,
without really getting a lot of praise for it. Everybody said he hasn't run
so I said 'If you don't run, we won't play you', so he's running and I
think, if you're a full-back, you don't really want to play against
Arnautovic because he's got power and pace. "He probably prefers to play on
the left-hand side but we've got a few people who want to do that, so at the
moment we are playing him on the opposite side. "We want him to be a big
player. We spent a lot of money on him and we want him to score goals and
make goals and tonight he helped us."
The statistics also showed that the Hammers outran and outsprinted their
opponents, showing further evidence of their improving fitness levels under
Moyes and his coaching staff. So, was the manager happy with his team's
output in his first home game at the helm? "We've learnt that we can run and
they have now set the standard and cannot go below that. Even then, we only
got a draw, so we'll need to play better with the ball when we get it and at
least keep those levels up if we are going to take something from every
game."
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Hammers U23s bested away to Arsenal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U23s fell to a 3-0 defeat against their Arsenal counterparts
in a tricky contest on Friday evening. Two first half goals from Vlad
Dragomir put the Gunners in control at half-time, and if not for a penalty
save by Nathan Trott that lead could have been greater. Grady Diangana and
Toni Martinez saw efforts saved for the Hammers in freezing conditions at
Boreham Wood, but Arsenal secured the win with a late finish through Eddie
Nketiah in the second half. It was the Hammers that had the opening effort
of the game as Diangana fired a shot over the bar in the first minute, after
the away side got forward from the opening whistle. Risky play in the
back-line, particularly from goalkeeper Matt Macey, almost allowed Martinez
in as well but it was Arsenal that took the lead after six minutes.
Dragomir's header looped over Trott and into the far corner. The England
youth international was the hero just minutes later however as Arsenal were
given the chance to extend their lead from the penalty spot. Eddie Nketiah's
effort from 12 yards was excellently saved by Trott down to his right. Ben
Johnson and Sead Haksabanovic came close to getting West Ham level with
headers from corners, while Martin Samuelsen was brought down in the area
only for the referee to wave away the penalty appeals.
Martinez saw a shot saved by Macey as well before Arsenal doubled their
advantage. Dragomir grabbed his second on 36 minutes after a well-found ball
put him in, allowing the Arsenal player to score. The second period began in
the exact same vein as the first with Diangana again having the opening shot
of the half. This time the midfielder's curling effort forced a decent save
from Macey. The Hammers were a more composed unit following the break and
captain Moses Makasi came very close to getting the Irons back in the game,
but his follow-up shot was over the bar. Arsenal's Da Silva took an effort,
which Trott held well, but chances in the second half were scarcer as both
sides battled in midfield. But the Gunners secured all three points with
their third goal in the 82nd minute as Nketiah fired home from close range.
Arsenal: Macey, Osei-Tutu, Bola, Sheaf, Pleguezuelo; Medley, Dragomir,
Dasilva, Nketiah; Willock, Smith Rowe
Subs not used: Gilmour, Keto, Amaechi, Eyoma
Goalscorers: Draogmir 6' 36', Nketiah 82'
West Ham United: Trott; Johnson, Akinola, Wells, Longelo; Makasi, Coventry,
Samuelsen, Haksabanovic (Hector-Ingram 52'), DIangana; Martinez
Subs not used: Powell, Matrevics, Bernardo,
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Arsenal had 'cutting edge' over West Ham U23s - Westley
WHUFC.com
Academy director Terry Westley has conceded Arsenal's quality was the
difference as the West Ham United U23s fell to a 3-0 defeat in Boreham Wood.
Two first half finishes from Vlad Dragomir were followed up by a late Eddie
Nketiah strike to hand the Hammers the loss on Friday evening. West Ham
looked to battle back in the second period but struggled to find a way
through a strong Arsenal team, and Westley admitted that his young U23s side
were beaten by the better side on the night. "They are a strong team with
strong players," Westley told whufc.com. "Some have played in the Europa
League or at least travelled with the squad, with the first team. You could
see the quality they had in their team. "I though we stayed with the game
nicely in the second half to be fair. The late goal was a bit unfair on us
given how hard we had worked, but Arsenal really had the cutting edge. They
play some nice, attractive football. We were really just trying to stay with
them. A 3-0 was about right."
Westley did not look to make excuses for the loss but did point to the
number of regular U23s players that his team lined up without. Nathan
Holland is currently out injured, as is Josh Pask, while Declan Rice and
Domingos Quina were with the first team squad at London Stadium for the
Premier League tie with Leicester City. The Academy director added: "I don't
think you can take out the quality of players we've in our squad, like Pask
and Holland, and then Declan Rice and Domingos Quina. When you take that
level out, we haven't got the numbers to come in and really strengthen the
team again. It was always going to be difficult.
"Rosaire Longelo, Ben Wells and Ben Johnson are all under 18, meaning three
of our back four were under 18. Conor Coventry, in midfield, is also under
18, so it was going to be a tall order tonight from the start."
Westley did however indicate that such a game taught him and his coaching
team about other qualities the players possess, before highlighting Nathan
Trott'a performance. The goalkeeper made a number of top saves, including
one from a first-half penalty, in Friday's match to stop Arsenal from
netting more than the three goals they found. Westley continued: "It was a
different type of game and what you do see is people's character and the
ones who can stand up to it when it goes against you. "On that note, I would
probably say our best performer was our goalkeeper, Nathan Trott. He's had
14 plus shots to deal with tonight and he's pulled off some very good saves,
including the penalty."
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West Ham United Ladies v C&K Basildon: All you need to know
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies return to action this weekend with a home contest
against C&K Basildon.
Read on for everything you need ahead of this Sunday's fixture, including
ticket information, team news, and a look at this weekend's opposition:
Where and When?
West Ham United Ladies will play C&K Basildon in the FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division on Sunday 26 November.
The contest is to be played at home, at the Rush Green Stadium, with
kick-off scheduled for 2pm.
How to follow:
Season Ticket holders and Claret Members can attend this Ladies contest for
free!
General admission is £2 while U16s can also enter free of charge.
Live updates will be provided throughout the afternoon through the official
West Ham United Ladies Twitter account.
Highlights of Sunday's fixture will be available on the West Ham United
website on Monday.
Meet the opposition:
0:21
Team news:
Greg de Carnys will be hoping he can call on some regular first team players
when the Ladies return to action against C&K Basildon.
Captain Amy Cooper and Chloe Burr were among the players that missed the
last match against Coventry United, while Rosie Kmita was only fit enough
for the bench, and it remains to be seen if any of those trio will be
available for this weekend's fixture.
De Carnys said: "We're hoping we will have a few players back, but a couple
are not available. It's about making sure we get them back in the right way
so they can stay injury free. I'll be taking the advice I get from the
physios."
What they say:
"C&K Basildon are a tough side, as we found when we played them last time. I
think we've improved since then though. They are the only other side to beat
Charlton this season. We know it's a tough challenge but we are ready."
Greg de Carnys
West Ham United Ladies manager
Last time out:
West Ham United Ladies:
Despite a debut goal from Zoe Swift the Hammers fell to a defeat in their
last fixture, suffering a 2-1 loss away at a tough Coventry United.
The Ladies had taken the lead but conceded a penalty just minutes before
half-time, which was converted, before Coventry won the match in the second
period.
C&K Basildon Ladies:
Two goals apiece for Jay Blackie and Angela Addison put C&K Basildon well on
their way with the side picking up an impressive 5-0 victory over Cardiff
City Ladies.
Danica Revell claimed the other goal in the win.
How to get there:
Rush Green (RM7 0LU) can be found on Rush Green road and provides free
parking for Ladies matches. The nearest train station is Romford which is
roughly a 30 minute walk to Rush Green.
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WEST HAM 1-1 LEICESTER CITY – MATCH REPORT
AUTHOR: BRIAN KNOX. PUBLISHED: 24 NOVEMBER 2017 AT 10:29PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Match Report by @WestHamAmerican
West Ham drew tonight 1-1 to Leicester City in a Friday night premier league
fixture that featured a spirited home crowd and a bit more passion from the
stands of the London Stadium than recent matches have shown. For Claude
Puel , he like David Moyes, is still finding his path with his first team
players. But with proven scorers like Jamie Vardy, the Foxes have shown
they are able to score quickly.
In the early going on Leicester's first real counter attack, Vardy crossed
to a poorly defended Marc Albrighton, who found the corner of the net.
While Vardy showed his usual pace, it was the poor communication from centre
backs that allowed Albrighton the space to open up the scoring.
Following the opening goal, West Ham seemed to regroup and carried a slight
advantage in possession throughout the opening half. Desperately needing an
equaliser , Andy Carroll tried his best to play his role of target man.
Crosses from Cresswell and Arnautovic were close but not quite there for the
tall striker.
Finally, in the final minute of the half, a West Ham corner kick allowed
Cheikhou Kouyate muscle through Wilfred Ndidi and get a header past Kasper
Schmeichel (the header actually rolled off of Danny Simpson's back, and into
the goal). But West Ham went level and found some momentum heading into the
break.
The second half was spirited but neither goalkeeper was under much duress
for most of the half. The fans at the London Stadium really came to life in
the second half to encourage their struggling side on to a sorely needed
victory. The most notable point of the second half was the number of game
stoppages due to injury on both sides of the pitch.
In the final moments of the half and the six minutes of added time, it was
West Ham showing the most ambition in taking all three points, however the
Hammers were unable to find a clean shot and Leicester showed some fortitude
in defending Lanzini's set plays. The closest attempt was a stoppage time
corner kick which featured an Andre Ayew overhead kick in heavy traffic
which sailed over the crossbar.
It wasn't lack of effort towards the end, but Martin Atkinson's whistle
ended West Ham's chances at victory and Moyes had to settle for a single
point for all of the effort. The story to follow after this match is the
medical status of Arnautovic, and Kouyate. Both picked up injuries,
although only Arnautovic left the match.
It is a short week for West Ham as they travel to Goodison Park to face a
struggling Everton side, still without a new manager. Coming off their
1-5 Europa league embarrassment, the Toffees will be seeking some redemption
and both clubs desperately need a victory.
Be sure to stay tuned to TheWestHamWay for all your information on
Wednesday's match.
West Ham: Hart, Zabaleta, Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Kouyate, Obiang,
Arnautovic, Lanzini, Masuaku, Carroll
Subs: Adrian, Rice, Noble, Quina, Fernandes, Sakho (93'), Ayew (69')
Leicester: Schmeichel, Simpson, Morgan, Maguire, Fuchs, Mahrez, Ndidi,
Albrighton, Iborra, Gray, Vardy
Subs: Hamer, Chilwell (70'), Dragovic, King, Okazaki, Slimani (92'),
Iheanacho
Referee: Martin Atkinson
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1-1 Leicester: David Moyes picks up first point of Hammers tenure
By Lewis Jones at The London Stadium
Last Updated: 25/11/17 8:00am
SSN
West Ham extended their winless run to six games as they were held to a 1-1
draw with Leicester City on Friday Night Football. In David Moyes first home
game in charge, West Ham fell behind inside eight minutes when Marc
Albrighton took advantage of some sloppy Hammers defending. That early goal
could have triggered a toxic atmosphere inside The London Stadium but - as
Moyes had called for all week - the club and fans stuck together and got a
deserved equaliser through Cheikhou Kouyate right on half-time. A point was
not enough to lift West Ham out of the drop zone, who have put together
their worst start to a season since 2010 when they were relegated under
Avram Grant.
Player ratings
West Ham: Hart (6), Zabaleta (6), Reid (6), Ogbonna (5), Cresswell (6),
Kouyate (7), Obiang (6), Arnautovic (7), Lanzini (6), Masuaku (7), Carroll
(5).
Subs: Ayew (6), Sakho (6)
Leicester: Schmeichel (6), Simpson, (6) Morgan (6), Maguire (6), Fuchs (6),
Mahrez (6), Ndidi (7), Albrighton (7), Iborra (6), Gray (6), Vardy (7)
Subs: Chilwell (6),
Man of the match: Marko Arnautovic
Moyes would have been hoping to build on the positive signs on show in the
defeat at Watford, but his team wilted inside eight minutes. Jamie Vardy was
allowed to run free down the left and his cross was missed completely by
Angelo Ogbonna, which allowed Albrighton the opportunity to poke home from
close range.
The Hammers was quite lucky to get away with a penalty appeal on 22 minutes
when Albrighton was bundled into by Arthur Masuaku and Vardy curled inches
wide seven minutes later. However, West Ham always looked a threat from
set-pieces and they forced home the equaliser just before the break when
Kouyate bundled in a left-wing corner. David Moyes dropped Mark Noble for
winger Arthur Masuaku in the only change from the 2-0 defeat at Watford.
Claude Puel named the same players that started the 2-0 home defeat against
Manchester City last Saturday. Despite the best efforts of the home fans,
who tried to roar their team forward, West Ham failed to really lay siege to
the Leicester goal in a disjointed second period that was lacking in
quality. The stop-start nature to proceedings resulted in six minutes of
injury time and substitute Andre Ayew nearly nicked it with an acrobatic
attempt following a goalmouth scramble but his effort flew inches over.
Man of the match: Marko Arnautovic
It looked at times as though West Ham had signed a new right winger. The
home fans had yet to see their big money signing really produce a high level
of work-rate but he produced the goods here in a solid all-round display.
The pick of his key moments came midway through the first-half where he
sprinted back 50 yards to make a vital last-ditch tackle on Jamie Vardy.
Moyes commented: "He was very good - people told me on Sunday that was one
of his better games. He showed the other side to his game that he knows he
has to do."
Opta stats
Moyes has failed to win any of his 11 Premier League home games in 2017 (D4
L7), equalling the record set by Mick McCarthy in 2005 (P11 W0 D3 L8).
Kouyate has been involved in more goals against Leicester (3, two goals and
one assist) than any other opponent in the Premier League.
No side has conceded more goals from corners in the Premier League this
season than Leicester (6, level with Watford).
West Ham are yet to win a Premier League match at the London Stadium in
which they conceded first (D3 L10).
Manager reaction: David Moyes
"The second half was much more like us, it was more like the crowd, it was
more like Upton Park. There was 10 minutes when the crowd was right behind
the team - they need it, we need it."
David Moyes was encouraged by West Ham's performance in their 1-1 draw with
Leicester at the London Stadium and felt the display merited more.
Claude Puel
"We had to kill the game after the first half. With the goal before
half-time West Ham took confidence."
What's next?
West Ham face fellow strugglers Everton on Wednesday before facing
Manchester City (a), Chelsea (h) and Arsenal (a). Meanwhile, Leicester have
a home clash with Tottenham on Tuesday evening.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Moyes praises West Ham fans for making 'atmosphere like Upton Park'
Last Updated: 25/11/17 7:44am
SSN
David Moyes praised the home fans for sticking with his West Ham team and
likened the atmosphere to Upton Park in the 1-1 draw with Leicester. The
Hammers extended their winless run to six games with the result but there
were plenty of positives to take from the performance. After falling behind
early, the atmosphere could have turned toxic inside The London Stadium but
- as Moyes had called for all week - the club and fans stuck together and
got a deserved equaliser through Cheikhou Kouyate right on half-time.
Moyes acknowledged the crowd's backing. He said: "We were a little bit
unlucky to go behind - we showed character. We could've gone under but they
kept digging in. "We didn't play as well as we should have in first half
but we warranted going in level at half-time. The second half was much more
like us, it was more like the crowd, it was more like Upton Park. There was
10 minutes when the crowd was right behind the team - they need it, we need
it. "The players worked hard and deserved the applause. When we went 1-0
down, the supporters didn't boo - they understood we didn't deserve to be
behind. The players stuck at it. "I thought the second half was terrific in
the way the supporters got behind the team. They got behind them as they saw
the effort from the players. It goes hand-in-hand."
Marko Arnautovic, who has flattered to deceive since joining from Stoke City
in the summer, put in a much-improved showing on the right wing. His
willingness to work back and help out his defence was duly noted by Moyes.
"He was very good - people told me on Sunday that was one of his better
games," he said. "He showed the other side to his game that he knows he has
to do. "He needs to make sure he does that week-in, week-out. They've all
got to do it, they all tried to the best of their ability."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"It's difficult to get a back-four that disorganised, it's shocking!" Gary
Neville tears into West Ham's defence
The Sky Sports pundit couldn't believe what he was watching in the first
half of West Ham's game with Leicester City
The Mirror
ByJake Polden
21:39, 24 NOV 2017
Gary Neville ripped apart West Ham's back-four following a shocking
defensive display in the first half of their Premier League clash with
Leicester City. The Manchester United legend said he couldn't believe what
he had just witnessed, and claimed it actually takes work for a defence to
be that disorganised. The Hammers fell behind in just eight minutes of the
clash at the London Stadium when Jamie Vardy picked out Marc Albrighton in
the box and he fired past Joe Hart.
Angelo Ogbonna was all over the place when the ball came into the box, and
the Italian struggled to recover as the first half wore on. Criticising his
performance, as well as the rest of the West Ham defence, Neville told Spy
Sports: "That is very difficult to coach to get a back-four that
disorganised, it's shocking, and it leaves Vardy one-on-one. "Ogbonna has
had a nightmare, he really has at centre-back." "Look at them, walking. You
have got to show some level of liveliness and alertness, be on your toes.
"But you look at them, that gap there, and you look at Ogbonna. I have no
idea what he is doing. Just watch him here, he doesn't even move. "Against a
throw-in, it's absolutely scandalous to be found in that position, and it's
just a penalty, he's tackling from the wrong side, it's definitely a
penalty."
He concluded: "And at that point of the game it could have been away from
David Moyes, it could have been away from West Ham, and you could have seen
this crowd getting toxic."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United 1 – 1 Leicester City
Premier League
Cheikhou Kouyate's header earned David Moyes his first point as West Ham
United manager as his side fought back well to draw 1-1 with Leicester City
on Friday night. The Hammers had to recover from the early blow of falling
behind to Marc Albrighton's eighth minute opener, and they showed great
spirit to do just that.
Kouyate rose highest to nod home a Manuel Lanzini corner on the stroke of
half-time and it was the Hammers, backed by a tremendous atmosphere inside
London Stadium, who remained on the front foot after the break. Joe Hart was
barely tested in goal in the second period as the hosts searched for a way
through, but they could not break down a stubborn Foxes defence again and
had to settle for a point. Moyes made one change from the side which faced
Watford in his first game as Hammers boss, with Arthur Masuaku coming in for
Mark Noble, but his team made a similar start to that Vicarage Road. There
were just eight minutes on the clock when Jamie Vardy fashioned space on the
left to cross. His low delivery eluded Angelo Ogbonna and Albrighton had
moved in from the flank to steer home.
Vardy's pace threatened to create another chance midway through the half
when he burst into life in the left channel and nicked the ball inside
Winston Reid, but Marko Arnautovic had tracked back diligently to shepherd
the England striker away from danger. It was an excellent piece of defending
and the Hammers almost took full advantage on 26 minutes when Masuaku's
strong run forward was halted illegally outside the box and Lanzini's
delivery was flicked goalwards by Ogbonna, forcing a save from Kasper
Schmeichel. The Hammers were trying to get on the front foot, but had to be
wary of Leicester's pace on the counter and Riyad Mahrez made a couple of
probing runs as time wore on before the break, calling Hart into action with
one rising effort from 20 yards. At the other end, the hosts' fashioned an
opportunity for Kouyate eight minutes before the interval, but he could only
nod wide after Cresswell crossed wickedly from the left. Right on the stroke
of half-time the Senegal midfielder more than made up for it, rising in the
centre to head Lanzini's corner goalwards with enough force that Danny
Simpson's shoulder couldn't keep it out on the line.
It was an impressive response to the early blow of falling behind and
Masuaku tried to drive the Hammers yet further forward early after the
restart, making Schmeichel hold his testing cross-shot as he drove on down
the left. Arnautovic was continuing to put a real shift in and he got across
his man to meet a Lanzini cross on 63 minutes, but from his position in
front of the near post he couldn't force the ball on target. Although West
Ham were having the better of the game, clear chances were difficult to come
by as the game looked to be heading for a draw. There was time for one more
opportunity when sub Andre Ayew acroatically attempted to score in the
aftermath of a late corner, but the ball flew over the bar and the Hammers
had to settle for a well-earned point.
West Ham United: Hart, Zabaleta, Reid (c), Ogbonna, Cresswell, Obiang,
Kouyate, Arnautovic (Ayew 69), Lanzini, Masuaku (Sakho 90+2), Carroll
Subs: Adrian, Noble, Fernandes, Quina, Rice
Goal: Kouyate 45
Booked: Ayew
Leicester City: Schmeichel, Simpson, Morgan (c), Maguire, Fuchs, Ndidi,
Iborra, Albrighton, Mahrez (Chilwell 70), Gray (Slimani 90+1), Vardy
Subs: Hamer, Iheanacho, King, Dragovic, Okazaki
Goal: Albrighton 8
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Attendance: 56,897
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arnautovic: We are progressing
WHIFC.com
Marko Arnautovic felt Friday's 1-1 draw with Leicester City shows the
Hammers are making progress in the early days of David Moyes' reign as
manager. Cheikhou Kouyate's header on the stroke of half-time cancelled out
Marc Albrighton's early opener and West Ham remained on the front foot in
the second half as they searched for a winner. Backed by the tremendous
support of the London Stadium crowd the Hammers probed, and although they
could not find a way through a stubborn Foxes defence for a second time,
Arnautovic was pleased with how the hosts responded. He also had praise for
the fans' vocal support and wants to reward them with victories as soon as
possible. He said: "I think we deserved more and from my point of view we
were the better team. We know we are not in an easy situation, but I think
we are progressing. "The fans today were so loud. The last weeks have not
been what everyone wanted and we know they are disappointed because we're
not bringing the results, but they were behind us and they gave everything
like we did on the pitch. "I hope we can continue like that, and that we can
have a lot of joy, but we need to win the games. "We came good after the
goal. We said 'come on let's do this, we need to fight, we need to win and
we need to get our goals'. "We got it [the equaliser] before half time and
we had a few chances. Let's now be okay with a point and move on."
From a personal point of view, Arnautovic contributed at both ends of the
pitch, supplying seven crosses as well as doing his defensive duty
diligently and he feels he is getting back to form. He added: "It was hard
for me at the beginning of the season. I got the red card, then I was ill
when we played Swansea and it was hard mentally for me, but I think I'm
ready, I'm fit and I hope I can give everything for West Ham. "I'm not here
for no reason, and I want to show the fans, the players and everyone
involved at West Ham that they can count on me. Last week I had [the injury]
with my hand and on Friday I had a bang on my knee. "I tried to run it off,
but I don't want to hurt the team. If there are players with fresh legs who
can help the team, I don't want to be the man who can't move any more.
"I want to help the team, I want to give assists and score goals. Hopefully
that can come in the future."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes praises players and fans after London Stadium debut
WHUFC.com
David Moyes praised both his West Ham United players and the Claret and Blue
Army for helping the Hammers to a hard-earned 1-1 Premier League draw with
Leicester City. The Scot marked his first home game in charge with a
deserved point as Cheikhou Kouyate's equaliser on the stroke of half-time
cancelled out Marc Albrighton's early opener. With the London Stadium
faithful in great voice, Moyes' team went in search of a winner their
overall performance arguably deserved, but ultimately the Hammers had to
settle for a share of the spoils. "It was a start for us tonight. It's not
been the best place for us, but I thought the players' performance warranted
more. I thought the crowd were fantastic, so all the negatives I've heard
about the crowd, I thought the opposite and that they were great, they
really were. "I think any player will tell you that West Ham has always been
a tough place to come over the years, with a tough crowd and they can make
it that way in this stadium as well, and I think they did tonight. "I
thought they got right behind the players, but I also thought the players
gave them something to shout about as well."
The second half may not have brought a winning goal for the hosts, but they
controlled the game for long periods and went close on a number of
occasions, most notably through substitute Andre Ayew's overhead kick. "I
thought they were great in the second half and that's why the crowd reacted
so well," said Moyes.
"I think they are low on confidence as the results haven't gone well and
they lost a manager as well, and when it goes like that it's difficult and
you need some things to go for you now and again. "We lost a goal after
eight minutes when I don't know if Leicester had been up the pitch before
that. They stuck at it though, they really did, and the second half they
made a really good go of it and in the end we might have nicked it."
Two players who caught the eye were wingers Marko Arnautovic and Arthur
Masuaku, who gave Leicester full-backs Danny Simpson and Christian Fuchs a
tough time with their power, pace and direct running. The pair delivered 15
of West Ham's 31 crosses and generally pushed the Foxes onto the back foot
every time they took possession. "Marko played really well for us on Sunday,
without really getting a lot of praise for it. Everybody said he hasn't run
so I said 'If you don't run, we won't play you', so he's running and I
think, if you're a full-back, you don't really want to play against
Arnautovic because he's got power and pace. "He probably prefers to play on
the left-hand side but we've got a few people who want to do that, so at the
moment we are playing him on the opposite side. "We want him to be a big
player. We spent a lot of money on him and we want him to score goals and
make goals and tonight he helped us."
The statistics also showed that the Hammers outran and outsprinted their
opponents, showing further evidence of their improving fitness levels under
Moyes and his coaching staff. So, was the manager happy with his team's
output in his first home game at the helm? "We've learnt that we can run and
they have now set the standard and cannot go below that. Even then, we only
got a draw, so we'll need to play better with the ball when we get it and at
least keep those levels up if we are going to take something from every
game."
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Hammers U23s bested away to Arsenal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U23s fell to a 3-0 defeat against their Arsenal counterparts
in a tricky contest on Friday evening. Two first half goals from Vlad
Dragomir put the Gunners in control at half-time, and if not for a penalty
save by Nathan Trott that lead could have been greater. Grady Diangana and
Toni Martinez saw efforts saved for the Hammers in freezing conditions at
Boreham Wood, but Arsenal secured the win with a late finish through Eddie
Nketiah in the second half. It was the Hammers that had the opening effort
of the game as Diangana fired a shot over the bar in the first minute, after
the away side got forward from the opening whistle. Risky play in the
back-line, particularly from goalkeeper Matt Macey, almost allowed Martinez
in as well but it was Arsenal that took the lead after six minutes.
Dragomir's header looped over Trott and into the far corner. The England
youth international was the hero just minutes later however as Arsenal were
given the chance to extend their lead from the penalty spot. Eddie Nketiah's
effort from 12 yards was excellently saved by Trott down to his right. Ben
Johnson and Sead Haksabanovic came close to getting West Ham level with
headers from corners, while Martin Samuelsen was brought down in the area
only for the referee to wave away the penalty appeals.
Martinez saw a shot saved by Macey as well before Arsenal doubled their
advantage. Dragomir grabbed his second on 36 minutes after a well-found ball
put him in, allowing the Arsenal player to score. The second period began in
the exact same vein as the first with Diangana again having the opening shot
of the half. This time the midfielder's curling effort forced a decent save
from Macey. The Hammers were a more composed unit following the break and
captain Moses Makasi came very close to getting the Irons back in the game,
but his follow-up shot was over the bar. Arsenal's Da Silva took an effort,
which Trott held well, but chances in the second half were scarcer as both
sides battled in midfield. But the Gunners secured all three points with
their third goal in the 82nd minute as Nketiah fired home from close range.
Arsenal: Macey, Osei-Tutu, Bola, Sheaf, Pleguezuelo; Medley, Dragomir,
Dasilva, Nketiah; Willock, Smith Rowe
Subs not used: Gilmour, Keto, Amaechi, Eyoma
Goalscorers: Draogmir 6' 36', Nketiah 82'
West Ham United: Trott; Johnson, Akinola, Wells, Longelo; Makasi, Coventry,
Samuelsen, Haksabanovic (Hector-Ingram 52'), DIangana; Martinez
Subs not used: Powell, Matrevics, Bernardo,
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal had 'cutting edge' over West Ham U23s - Westley
WHUFC.com
Academy director Terry Westley has conceded Arsenal's quality was the
difference as the West Ham United U23s fell to a 3-0 defeat in Boreham Wood.
Two first half finishes from Vlad Dragomir were followed up by a late Eddie
Nketiah strike to hand the Hammers the loss on Friday evening. West Ham
looked to battle back in the second period but struggled to find a way
through a strong Arsenal team, and Westley admitted that his young U23s side
were beaten by the better side on the night. "They are a strong team with
strong players," Westley told whufc.com. "Some have played in the Europa
League or at least travelled with the squad, with the first team. You could
see the quality they had in their team. "I though we stayed with the game
nicely in the second half to be fair. The late goal was a bit unfair on us
given how hard we had worked, but Arsenal really had the cutting edge. They
play some nice, attractive football. We were really just trying to stay with
them. A 3-0 was about right."
Westley did not look to make excuses for the loss but did point to the
number of regular U23s players that his team lined up without. Nathan
Holland is currently out injured, as is Josh Pask, while Declan Rice and
Domingos Quina were with the first team squad at London Stadium for the
Premier League tie with Leicester City. The Academy director added: "I don't
think you can take out the quality of players we've in our squad, like Pask
and Holland, and then Declan Rice and Domingos Quina. When you take that
level out, we haven't got the numbers to come in and really strengthen the
team again. It was always going to be difficult.
"Rosaire Longelo, Ben Wells and Ben Johnson are all under 18, meaning three
of our back four were under 18. Conor Coventry, in midfield, is also under
18, so it was going to be a tall order tonight from the start."
Westley did however indicate that such a game taught him and his coaching
team about other qualities the players possess, before highlighting Nathan
Trott'a performance. The goalkeeper made a number of top saves, including
one from a first-half penalty, in Friday's match to stop Arsenal from
netting more than the three goals they found. Westley continued: "It was a
different type of game and what you do see is people's character and the
ones who can stand up to it when it goes against you. "On that note, I would
probably say our best performer was our goalkeeper, Nathan Trott. He's had
14 plus shots to deal with tonight and he's pulled off some very good saves,
including the penalty."
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West Ham United Ladies v C&K Basildon: All you need to know
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies return to action this weekend with a home contest
against C&K Basildon.
Read on for everything you need ahead of this Sunday's fixture, including
ticket information, team news, and a look at this weekend's opposition:
Where and When?
West Ham United Ladies will play C&K Basildon in the FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division on Sunday 26 November.
The contest is to be played at home, at the Rush Green Stadium, with
kick-off scheduled for 2pm.
How to follow:
Season Ticket holders and Claret Members can attend this Ladies contest for
free!
General admission is £2 while U16s can also enter free of charge.
Live updates will be provided throughout the afternoon through the official
West Ham United Ladies Twitter account.
Highlights of Sunday's fixture will be available on the West Ham United
website on Monday.
Meet the opposition:
0:21
Team news:
Greg de Carnys will be hoping he can call on some regular first team players
when the Ladies return to action against C&K Basildon.
Captain Amy Cooper and Chloe Burr were among the players that missed the
last match against Coventry United, while Rosie Kmita was only fit enough
for the bench, and it remains to be seen if any of those trio will be
available for this weekend's fixture.
De Carnys said: "We're hoping we will have a few players back, but a couple
are not available. It's about making sure we get them back in the right way
so they can stay injury free. I'll be taking the advice I get from the
physios."
What they say:
"C&K Basildon are a tough side, as we found when we played them last time. I
think we've improved since then though. They are the only other side to beat
Charlton this season. We know it's a tough challenge but we are ready."
Greg de Carnys
West Ham United Ladies manager
Last time out:
West Ham United Ladies:
Despite a debut goal from Zoe Swift the Hammers fell to a defeat in their
last fixture, suffering a 2-1 loss away at a tough Coventry United.
The Ladies had taken the lead but conceded a penalty just minutes before
half-time, which was converted, before Coventry won the match in the second
period.
C&K Basildon Ladies:
Two goals apiece for Jay Blackie and Angela Addison put C&K Basildon well on
their way with the side picking up an impressive 5-0 victory over Cardiff
City Ladies.
Danica Revell claimed the other goal in the win.
How to get there:
Rush Green (RM7 0LU) can be found on Rush Green road and provides free
parking for Ladies matches. The nearest train station is Romford which is
roughly a 30 minute walk to Rush Green.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1-1 LEICESTER CITY – MATCH REPORT
AUTHOR: BRIAN KNOX. PUBLISHED: 24 NOVEMBER 2017 AT 10:29PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Match Report by @WestHamAmerican
West Ham drew tonight 1-1 to Leicester City in a Friday night premier league
fixture that featured a spirited home crowd and a bit more passion from the
stands of the London Stadium than recent matches have shown. For Claude
Puel , he like David Moyes, is still finding his path with his first team
players. But with proven scorers like Jamie Vardy, the Foxes have shown
they are able to score quickly.
In the early going on Leicester's first real counter attack, Vardy crossed
to a poorly defended Marc Albrighton, who found the corner of the net.
While Vardy showed his usual pace, it was the poor communication from centre
backs that allowed Albrighton the space to open up the scoring.
Following the opening goal, West Ham seemed to regroup and carried a slight
advantage in possession throughout the opening half. Desperately needing an
equaliser , Andy Carroll tried his best to play his role of target man.
Crosses from Cresswell and Arnautovic were close but not quite there for the
tall striker.
Finally, in the final minute of the half, a West Ham corner kick allowed
Cheikhou Kouyate muscle through Wilfred Ndidi and get a header past Kasper
Schmeichel (the header actually rolled off of Danny Simpson's back, and into
the goal). But West Ham went level and found some momentum heading into the
break.
The second half was spirited but neither goalkeeper was under much duress
for most of the half. The fans at the London Stadium really came to life in
the second half to encourage their struggling side on to a sorely needed
victory. The most notable point of the second half was the number of game
stoppages due to injury on both sides of the pitch.
In the final moments of the half and the six minutes of added time, it was
West Ham showing the most ambition in taking all three points, however the
Hammers were unable to find a clean shot and Leicester showed some fortitude
in defending Lanzini's set plays. The closest attempt was a stoppage time
corner kick which featured an Andre Ayew overhead kick in heavy traffic
which sailed over the crossbar.
It wasn't lack of effort towards the end, but Martin Atkinson's whistle
ended West Ham's chances at victory and Moyes had to settle for a single
point for all of the effort. The story to follow after this match is the
medical status of Arnautovic, and Kouyate. Both picked up injuries,
although only Arnautovic left the match.
It is a short week for West Ham as they travel to Goodison Park to face a
struggling Everton side, still without a new manager. Coming off their
1-5 Europa league embarrassment, the Toffees will be seeking some redemption
and both clubs desperately need a victory.
Be sure to stay tuned to TheWestHamWay for all your information on
Wednesday's match.
West Ham: Hart, Zabaleta, Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Kouyate, Obiang,
Arnautovic, Lanzini, Masuaku, Carroll
Subs: Adrian, Rice, Noble, Quina, Fernandes, Sakho (93'), Ayew (69')
Leicester: Schmeichel, Simpson, Morgan, Maguire, Fuchs, Mahrez, Ndidi,
Albrighton, Iborra, Gray, Vardy
Subs: Hamer, Chilwell (70'), Dragovic, King, Okazaki, Slimani (92'),
Iheanacho
Referee: Martin Atkinson
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1-1 Leicester: David Moyes picks up first point of Hammers tenure
By Lewis Jones at The London Stadium
Last Updated: 25/11/17 8:00am
SSN
West Ham extended their winless run to six games as they were held to a 1-1
draw with Leicester City on Friday Night Football. In David Moyes first home
game in charge, West Ham fell behind inside eight minutes when Marc
Albrighton took advantage of some sloppy Hammers defending. That early goal
could have triggered a toxic atmosphere inside The London Stadium but - as
Moyes had called for all week - the club and fans stuck together and got a
deserved equaliser through Cheikhou Kouyate right on half-time. A point was
not enough to lift West Ham out of the drop zone, who have put together
their worst start to a season since 2010 when they were relegated under
Avram Grant.
Player ratings
West Ham: Hart (6), Zabaleta (6), Reid (6), Ogbonna (5), Cresswell (6),
Kouyate (7), Obiang (6), Arnautovic (7), Lanzini (6), Masuaku (7), Carroll
(5).
Subs: Ayew (6), Sakho (6)
Leicester: Schmeichel (6), Simpson, (6) Morgan (6), Maguire (6), Fuchs (6),
Mahrez (6), Ndidi (7), Albrighton (7), Iborra (6), Gray (6), Vardy (7)
Subs: Chilwell (6),
Man of the match: Marko Arnautovic
Moyes would have been hoping to build on the positive signs on show in the
defeat at Watford, but his team wilted inside eight minutes. Jamie Vardy was
allowed to run free down the left and his cross was missed completely by
Angelo Ogbonna, which allowed Albrighton the opportunity to poke home from
close range.
The Hammers was quite lucky to get away with a penalty appeal on 22 minutes
when Albrighton was bundled into by Arthur Masuaku and Vardy curled inches
wide seven minutes later. However, West Ham always looked a threat from
set-pieces and they forced home the equaliser just before the break when
Kouyate bundled in a left-wing corner. David Moyes dropped Mark Noble for
winger Arthur Masuaku in the only change from the 2-0 defeat at Watford.
Claude Puel named the same players that started the 2-0 home defeat against
Manchester City last Saturday. Despite the best efforts of the home fans,
who tried to roar their team forward, West Ham failed to really lay siege to
the Leicester goal in a disjointed second period that was lacking in
quality. The stop-start nature to proceedings resulted in six minutes of
injury time and substitute Andre Ayew nearly nicked it with an acrobatic
attempt following a goalmouth scramble but his effort flew inches over.
Man of the match: Marko Arnautovic
It looked at times as though West Ham had signed a new right winger. The
home fans had yet to see their big money signing really produce a high level
of work-rate but he produced the goods here in a solid all-round display.
The pick of his key moments came midway through the first-half where he
sprinted back 50 yards to make a vital last-ditch tackle on Jamie Vardy.
Moyes commented: "He was very good - people told me on Sunday that was one
of his better games. He showed the other side to his game that he knows he
has to do."
Opta stats
Moyes has failed to win any of his 11 Premier League home games in 2017 (D4
L7), equalling the record set by Mick McCarthy in 2005 (P11 W0 D3 L8).
Kouyate has been involved in more goals against Leicester (3, two goals and
one assist) than any other opponent in the Premier League.
No side has conceded more goals from corners in the Premier League this
season than Leicester (6, level with Watford).
West Ham are yet to win a Premier League match at the London Stadium in
which they conceded first (D3 L10).
Manager reaction: David Moyes
"The second half was much more like us, it was more like the crowd, it was
more like Upton Park. There was 10 minutes when the crowd was right behind
the team - they need it, we need it."
David Moyes was encouraged by West Ham's performance in their 1-1 draw with
Leicester at the London Stadium and felt the display merited more.
Claude Puel
"We had to kill the game after the first half. With the goal before
half-time West Ham took confidence."
What's next?
West Ham face fellow strugglers Everton on Wednesday before facing
Manchester City (a), Chelsea (h) and Arsenal (a). Meanwhile, Leicester have
a home clash with Tottenham on Tuesday evening.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Moyes praises West Ham fans for making 'atmosphere like Upton Park'
Last Updated: 25/11/17 7:44am
SSN
David Moyes praised the home fans for sticking with his West Ham team and
likened the atmosphere to Upton Park in the 1-1 draw with Leicester. The
Hammers extended their winless run to six games with the result but there
were plenty of positives to take from the performance. After falling behind
early, the atmosphere could have turned toxic inside The London Stadium but
- as Moyes had called for all week - the club and fans stuck together and
got a deserved equaliser through Cheikhou Kouyate right on half-time.
Moyes acknowledged the crowd's backing. He said: "We were a little bit
unlucky to go behind - we showed character. We could've gone under but they
kept digging in. "We didn't play as well as we should have in first half
but we warranted going in level at half-time. The second half was much more
like us, it was more like the crowd, it was more like Upton Park. There was
10 minutes when the crowd was right behind the team - they need it, we need
it. "The players worked hard and deserved the applause. When we went 1-0
down, the supporters didn't boo - they understood we didn't deserve to be
behind. The players stuck at it. "I thought the second half was terrific in
the way the supporters got behind the team. They got behind them as they saw
the effort from the players. It goes hand-in-hand."
Marko Arnautovic, who has flattered to deceive since joining from Stoke City
in the summer, put in a much-improved showing on the right wing. His
willingness to work back and help out his defence was duly noted by Moyes.
"He was very good - people told me on Sunday that was one of his better
games," he said. "He showed the other side to his game that he knows he has
to do. "He needs to make sure he does that week-in, week-out. They've all
got to do it, they all tried to the best of their ability."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"It's difficult to get a back-four that disorganised, it's shocking!" Gary
Neville tears into West Ham's defence
The Sky Sports pundit couldn't believe what he was watching in the first
half of West Ham's game with Leicester City
The Mirror
ByJake Polden
21:39, 24 NOV 2017
Gary Neville ripped apart West Ham's back-four following a shocking
defensive display in the first half of their Premier League clash with
Leicester City. The Manchester United legend said he couldn't believe what
he had just witnessed, and claimed it actually takes work for a defence to
be that disorganised. The Hammers fell behind in just eight minutes of the
clash at the London Stadium when Jamie Vardy picked out Marc Albrighton in
the box and he fired past Joe Hart.
Angelo Ogbonna was all over the place when the ball came into the box, and
the Italian struggled to recover as the first half wore on. Criticising his
performance, as well as the rest of the West Ham defence, Neville told Spy
Sports: "That is very difficult to coach to get a back-four that
disorganised, it's shocking, and it leaves Vardy one-on-one. "Ogbonna has
had a nightmare, he really has at centre-back." "Look at them, walking. You
have got to show some level of liveliness and alertness, be on your toes.
"But you look at them, that gap there, and you look at Ogbonna. I have no
idea what he is doing. Just watch him here, he doesn't even move. "Against a
throw-in, it's absolutely scandalous to be found in that position, and it's
just a penalty, he's tackling from the wrong side, it's definitely a
penalty."
He concluded: "And at that point of the game it could have been away from
David Moyes, it could have been away from West Ham, and you could have seen
this crowd getting toxic."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, November 24
Daily WHUFC News II - 24th November 2017
West Ham United v Leicester City: All you need to know
WHUFC.com
David Moyes's first home match as West Ham United manager comes on Friday as
the Hammers welcome Leicester City to London Stadium.
Read on for all the information you need about this fixture, including team
news, quotes, and match history.
Where and when?
West Ham United v Leicester City will be played at London Stadium on Friday
24 November, with kick-off set for 8pm.
How to follow:
West Ham's clash with Leicester City will be live on Sky Sports across their
Premier League and Main Event channels.
Initial build up will begin on the Premier League channel at 7pm while Main
Event will start broadcasting at 7.30pm.
Live match updates will be provided through the official West Ham Twitter
account.
You can also follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com.
You can also follow the match on our official Instagram, Facebook and
Snapchat channels.
Live audio coverage will also be provided by BBC Radio 5 Live.
Meet the opposition:
0:25
Team news:
David Moyes is yet to offer an update on his squad ahead of Friday's match.
The West Ham United manager's press-conference on Thursday afternoon will
likely provide insight as to which players are available.
Fans will look for updates on Marko Arnautovic, who came off last week
against Watford, and James Collins, who has been back in training after a
lengthy lay-off.
Team news for both the Hammers and Leicester City will be updated as soon as
the respective managers speak to the media.
Match Officials:
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistant Referees: Peter Kirkup & Constantine Hatzidakis
Fourth Official: Jonathan Moss
Last Five Meetings:
0:44
What they Say:
"We have to work hard for the next game and forget about the last one
because what happened, happened."
Pedro Obiang
How to get there:
There are four train stations that supporters are recommended to utilise to
reach London Stadium: Stratford Station, Stratford International, Hackney
Wick and Pudding Mill Lane.
By Underground
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini hails 'incredible' West Ham United supporters
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has hailed the "incredible" support of the West Ham United
fans ahead of Friday's Premier League contest with Leicester City. The Irons
return to action with the weekend's early fixture as David Moyes prepares
for his first match at London Stadium as West Ham manager, against the
Foxes. Over 50,000 loyal West Ham fans will pack into the Stadium to cheer
on the home side versus Leicester City, and Lanzini has said the players are
fully appreciative of the support they receive. The Argentinian maestro
promised the fans that the team is working hard to escape the relegation
zone and want to put smiles on their faces – starting against Leicester.
"The West Ham fans are incredible," Lanzini said. "They support us wherever
we go and they always cheer us on, even if things aren't going our way. "We
will give our absolute all to turn this around. As players, we are the first
people to be angry about our current situation. Where we are at the moment
is no good for anyone and none of us are happy. It's always a wonderful
feeling when you're making the fans happy. "The fans are a huge part of the
game. We try to do our best for ourselves and our families to get results,
but especially for the people and the fans that support us. We thank them
for their support."
Following the defeat at Watford captain Mark Noble confessed that the
confidence at West Ham was suffering slightly, a sentiment that Lanzini has
echoed. However, the No10 insists the hard work the team is putting in will
lead to positive results. He added: "At the moment the combination of our
performances and league position means our confidence is not at 100 per
cent. I think we need to keep things simple in the way we play in order to
increase our confidence.
"I have full belief in this team. We have some very good players here and
we're all working hard to implement the manager's ideas and to pick up more
points."
The 24-year-old also offered an insight into training under Moyes, who is
now in his third week in charge of the Hammers. Lanzini believes he and his
teammates are close to reaching what the West Ham boss is looking for in his
players. "We've been working on our intensity in games, and our link-up
play," Lanzini revealed. "We're trying to develop our game and his game all
together and I hope we can succeed. We're not far away from that. "It's down
to our intelligence as players in terms of being able to put into practice
what the coach wants from us. We are taking on his ideas and putting them
into practice, in terms of the intensity, and I think we are doing well."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers kick-off Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will kick-off the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign at
Friday's Premier League fixture with Leicester City at London Stadium. The
Hammers will be the first of the 92 Premier League and EFL clubs to support
the week-long initiative, which campaign to make football everyone's game,
with national teams, leading clubs, professional players, fans and
grassroots players from across football showing their support for LGBT
people in sport. The London Stadium adorned with a rainbow-branded ball
plinth, pitch flags, handshake and timing boards, while Mark Noble will wear
a rainbow-coloured captain's armband. Joint-Chairman David Sullivan says
West Ham are determined to ensure London Stadium remains a place where all
supporters can enjoy football in comfortable surroundings.
"We are proud to kick-off Stonewall's Rainbow Laces Week tonight and support
a cause that is very important to everyone at West Ham United," said Mr
Sullivan.
"We have an excellent relationship with our fantastic Pride of Irons
supporters' club, who help us ensure LGBT fans feel completely welcome at
London Stadium. I am sure every one of you will show your support this
evening."
Those sentiments were echoed by manager David Moyes. "We are proud to be
kicking-off Stonewall's Rainbow Laces Week this evening, which will be
helping promote a strong message across sport over the next seven days,"
said Moyes. "Football is a game for everyone, and I am sure you will all
agree it is important that absolutely nobody feels unwelcome when watching
or playing sport."
Jim Dolan is co-chairman of West Ham United's LGBT supporters' club Pride of
Irons and believes the Hammers are leading the way when it comes to creating
an inclusive environment, not only at London Stadium, but throughout the
Club. "West Ham is a Club that supports all of its fans and isn't just about
ticking boxes. Since the creation of Pride of Irons, the Club have been in
full support from sending Hammerhead to the London Pride Parade to asking us
to come in to the Club to provide training to Supporter Liaison Officers
around LGBT issues. "And for anyone who thinks we're isolating ourselves as
a group, that's not the case. Around a quarter of our members are straight
and all are invited to join. We want to create a supportive environment for
LGBT fans and their families which can only be achieved with acceptance and
support from every fan in the stands."
To find out more about the campaign and buy your own pair of Rainbow Laces
click here, then tweet a picture of you wearing them and tag @StonewallUK
and #RainbowLaces to show your support.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rainbow Laces: A message from Pride of Irons
WHUF.com
Pride of Irons co-chairman Jim Dolan says West Ham United are working
tirelessly to make LGBT supporters feel welcome at London Stadium...
Tonight's match marks the launch of the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign.
Initially created by an online betting site, the campaign has been adopted
by the LGBT charity Stonewall in partnership with the Premier League. But
what's it all about? What's it for? Simply, it is to highlight awareness of
LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) fans in football and to
highlight problems around homophobia – highlighted this season with the
promotion of Brighton & Hove Albion, who have notoriously received historic
homophobic abuse. Added to that, it's 2017 and we still don't have an out
footballer in the Premier League. Now we know they're there. We've had at
least two play for us. The first – although briefly – was Justin Fashanu,
who later tragically took his own life. More recently, Der Hammer – Thomas
Hitzlsperger – who chose to come out only just after retiring from the game.
There have also been several reports of gay players having discussions with
footballing authorities around what will happen should they come out.
So why aren't players able to? After all, in this day and age you'd think it
wasn't a big deal, right? LGBT people have all the same rights as everyone
else, so what's the problem? Players need to know that they have support in
the stands and LGBT fans need that support too. Although initiatives like
Rainbow Laces are good annual gestures, there's more to it than waving a
rainbow flag once a year. Acceptance in the stands is not the same as taking
part in a single event which some could say is a box-ticking exercise.
Fortunately, West Ham United is a Club that supports all of its fans and
isn't just about ticking boxes. Since the creation of Pride of Irons (West
Ham's official LGBT+ fan group) the club has been in full support, from
sending Hammerhead to the London Pride Parade to asking us to come in to the
club to provide training to SLOs (Supporter Liaison Officers) around LGBT
issues. And for anyone who thinks we're isolating ourselves as a group,
that's not the case. Around a quarter of our members are straight and all
are invited to join. We want to create a supportive environment for LGBT
fans and their families, which can only be achieved with acceptance and
support from every fan in the stands. One day we won't be talking about
Rainbow Laces and Pride of Irons won't exist, because homophobia will be
seen by the footballing community to be as abhorrent as racism is by most
today. But until that day, please join us and let your fellow fans know that
they are welcome, whatever their sexuality, gender, colour, race or level of
ability. Because we are all West Ham together.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers will go back to basics tonight - Cottee
WHUFC.com
West Ham United legend Tony Cottee believes West Ham United manager David
Moyes will go 'back to basics' in his first home game in charge. The Hammers
host Leicester City at London Stadium on Friday evening and Cottee, who also
played for the Foxes during his illustrious career, has called for unity
among the Claret and Blue Army.
Writing in the Official Programme, Cottee hopes his boyhood club will secure
the victory that will kick-start their 2017/18 Premier League season under
the Friday night lights...
Since arriving at the Club, David Moyes has spoken on a few occasions about
the imbalance in his squad. He said last week that he has four players who
all want to play on the left side in attack, while injuries and illness left
him light in certain areas last week. Much has also been made of the stats
showing that we are at the bottom for distance covered and other physical
levels, but the only statistic that really matters is the fact that we are
in the bottom three. It is obvious that we are not doing things as well as
we should be, both individually and as a team. The manager obviously
understands the position we are in but he can't make changes to personnel
until January, and we have ten games before then, so he needs to find a
solution that can grind out some results.
I think it is really a case of going back to basics, particularly in
defensive areas, and quickly finding a system and formation that the players
are happy and comfortable with. Make no mistake, we have some talented
players, but they are low on confidence at the moment, and the manager's job
is to lift that in any way he can. David is right in that it starts with
hard work on the training pitch.
The international break meant that he didn't get a chance to work with all
his players until just a couple of days before the Watford game, and I'm
sure he will have gained a lot more from training this week, with everyone
together and focused on what is needed this evening. This is a very good
counter-attacking Leicester team, it's how they won the Premier League, and
they still have a large percentage of that side at the club. I watched them
against Stoke a couple of weeks ago and you know what you are going to get.
They are very dangerous on the break and we have to be aware of that. We
can't afford to throw men forward gung-ho or play too high a line, because
one hoof forward and suddenly Jamie Vardy is away on goal. I'm sure David
and the players will have worked hard this week on what is required, and I
genuinely think we will be far better prepared to face Leicester than we
were to face Watford. The start to the game is going to be very important
and, as always, both players and supporters have a big role to play in that
sense. If the players begin with passion, high tempo and intensity, the
crowd will respond accordingly. Let's all hope this is the start of our
turnaround this season.
*Tony Cottee played 336 games for West Ham United between 1983 and 1996,
scoring 146 goals, and was voted Hammer of the Year in 1986
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Brady warns: We're not quitters
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 24th November 2017
By: Staff Writer
Vice-chair Karren Brady has reacted to calls for her to resign by announcing
"we are not quitters". Brady, who has been charged with overseeing the
botched move to Stratford used her column in a tabloid newspaper today to
warn fans that she and her employers, David Sullivan and David Gold, were
going nowhere. "At West Ham, none of us ever begin a season preparing
ourselves for a tough one," she wrote. "We all start the season brimming
with optimism, excited for what might lie ahead and the good times it may
bring. "We are all guilty of that and that's why it hurts us all so much to
be in the position we currently find ourselves. But that is when West Ham
supporters are historically at their best — and that is when David Sullivan,
David Gold and I are at our best. "We are not quitters and we are here to
honour our commitment and cement the long-term future of West Ham United FC.
We are here to see the children who became season-ticket holders last year,
grow up and bring their children to watch their first match at London
Stadium."
Brady also insisted that, despite claims to the contrary, she cared deeply
about the club - the running of which, she added, had required great
personal "sacrifice" from the two chairmen. "A quarter of a century in
football has ensured my chairmen, David Gold and David Sullivan, and I have
developed a thick skin for criticism," she added. "I have seen a lot of
people this week say we don't care and that couldn't be any further from the
truth. "David Sullivan and David Gold have given eight years of blood, sweat
and tears to help West Ham escape a very perilous situation upon our
arrival, make the club financially sustainable and realise an ambitious
stadium move, all of which have come with great challenges and sacrifice."
And in response to those who called for her dismissal last weekend at
Watford, she added: "For those who made their feelings known as loudly as
possible at Watford last week, we understand the frustration, we hear your
complaints and we really do care. "However, for 90 minutes tonight let's
all pull in the same direction and be West Ham. United."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Gold and David Sullivan will not quit West Ham, says Karren Brady
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 24/11/17 9:55am
SSN
Karren Brady insists West Ham co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold have
no intention of quitting the club, despite a certain section of fans calling
for them to sell following the Hammers' poor start to the season. West Ham
currently sit 18th in the Premier League, having won only two of their
opening 12 matches and tasted defeat in David Moyes' first match in charge
away at Watford last Sunday. Moyes subsequently called for West Ham to come
together as a club after fans protested against Gold and Sullivan's
ownership during the 2-0 loss at Vicarage Road, with a 'Sack The Board'
banner visible in the away end. Ahead of the Friday Night Football clash
against Leicester at London Stadium - live on Sky Sports Main Event &
Premier League HD - Brady insists she, Gold and Sullivan have no intention
of selling and are determined to turn the club's fortunes around. "We all
start the season brimming with optimism, excited for what might lie ahead
and the good times it may bring," Brady told The Sun. "We are all guilty of
that and that's why it hurts us all so much to be in the position we
currently find ourselves.
"But that is when West Ham supporters are historically at their best - and
that is when David Sullivan, David Gold and I are at our best. "We are not
quitters and we are here to honour our commitment and cement the long-term
future of West Ham United FC. "We are here to see the children who became
season-ticket holders last year, grow up and bring their children to watch
their first match at London Stadium. "But just one message for those who
made their feelings known as loudly as possible at Watford last week ... "We
understand the frustration, we hear your complaints and we really do care.
However, for 90 minutes tonight let's all pull in the same direction and be
West Ham United."
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David Moyes defends West Ham's Andy Carroll over aerial challenges
"We are in a country which wants to rule out simulation. But he stays up and
is hit by two people and gets zero protection"
Last Updated: 23/11/17 11:22pm
SSN
David Moyes has issued a staunch defence of Andy Carroll, arguing that the
West Ham striker warrants better treatment from referees over aerial
challenges.
Carroll has been involved in a series of incidents this season which have
raised debate over how he uses his arms to battle for possession but Moyes
believes there is no malicious intent from the 28-year-old. The former
Newcastle and Liverpool frontman was sent off against Burnley in October for
two yellow cards in quick succession following aerial battles and caught
Watford's Marvin Zeegelaar with his forearm last Sunday. "I think it's
becoming ridiculous," Moyes, who has argued that Carroll is often the
victim, said: "A couple of times people climbed over Andy and fouled him.
And all it was was, 'No that's OK, if it's Andy it's fine for that to go
on'. "Just before he was booked, he was scythed by two people. If it been
anyone else they would have gone down and taken a free-kick. Andy didn't.
"We are in a country which wants to rule out simulation. But he stays up and
is hit by two people and gets zero protection. "Every time Andy plays is
everyone going to say, 'That's a foul'? If they do then we've got to say now
that if you're six foot four you'd better go to basketball and stop being a
centre-forward. "I'm telling you, you can only jump with your arms for
leverage. It's my specialist subject. I was a centre-half. I needed to use
my arms for protection. If we are now saying you can't use your arms for
leverage then that isn't in the rules of football." Moyes has confirmed
Carroll will continue to lead the West Ham attack on Friday Night Football,
live on Sky Sports Premier League, despite an indifferent display during the
side's 2-0 defeat against Watford at Vicarage Road. The former Everton and
Manchester United manager has also admitted he will not shy away from making
his players aware if they are not reaching the heights he expects from them.
"I think players need to be told," he added. "I've told the players here, if
you're not doing it, I'm going to tell you. "I did also tell them that when
I stop shouting, you know you've got a problem. If I stop shouting at you,
you know I've given up on you."
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MATCH PREVIEW: WEST HAM V LEICESTER
By Dan Coker 24 Nov 2017 at 12:00
WTID
Blast from the past
New Year's Eve 1977 – Wings were number one with their double A-side
Christmas number one 'Mull of Kintyre/Girls' School', Star Wars was in UK
cinemas and, on the day which saw Bruce Forsyth step down as presenter of
The Generation Game after six years, the Hammers defeated the Foxes at Upton
Park in front of 25,355 spectators.
John McDowell (pictured) fired in a rasping drive for his only goal of the
season to give the Irons the lead. Derek Hales, sent clear by a Trevor
Brooking pass, made it two with his fifth goal in ten games to give the
hosts a 2-0 half-time lead.
David 'Psycho' Cross then scored his first ever goal in claret and blue,
getting on the end of Brooking's cross to score the first of his 97 goals
for West Ham United. The Hammers were 3-0 up but, typically for West Ham,
the game was not over – Steve Kember scored a freak goal from a cross which
looped over Bobby Ferguson to pull one back for the visitors. Scottish
goalkeeper Ferguson, playing in his first league game for 20 months, then
made a super save from a dipping shot by Roger Davies. Steve Sims added
another for Leicester with a looping header from a corner but the Hammers
held out to claim a 3-2 win and end 1977 on a happy note.
My video below shows all the goals from this game as well as Ferguson's save
and an interview with the former Hammers goalkeeper.
West Ham would go on to be relegated in a 1977/78 campaign that saw them
finish third from bottom, in 20th place, just one point behind QPR. Bryan
'Pop' Robson would be the Irons' top goalscorer with 11 goals in 41 matches
in 1977/78. Brooking was voted the Hammer of the Year and, for the only time
since 1961, there was no runner-up. The Foxes finished ten points behind the
Hammers, rooted to the bottom of the First Division table. Nottingham Forest
won the league and Ipswich won the FA Cup.
West Ham United: Bobby Ferguson, John McDowell, Billy Bonds, Tommy Taylor,
Frank Lampard, Alan Devonshire, Alan Curbishley, Trevor Brooking, Bryan
'Pop' Robson, Derek Hales, David Cross.
Leicester City: Mark Wallington, Tommy Williams (Steve Earle), Dave Webb,
Steve Sims, Dennis Rofe, Steve Kember, Jon Sammels, Eddie Kelly, George
Armstrong, Roger Davies, Billy Hughes.
Club Connections
Players who have represented both the Hammers and the Foxes include:
Goalkeepers: George Hebden, Colin Mackleworth.
Defenders: Gary Charles, Chris Powell, Dickie Pudan, Rufus Brevett, Paul
Konchesky, Dai Jones, Matthew Upson, Clive Clarke, Billy Oakes, Fred Milnes,
John Paintsil.
Midfielders: Andy Impey, Shaun Newton, Nolberto Solano, Franz Carr, Sid
Bishop.
Strikers: David Connolly, Albert Carnelly, Mike Newell, Brian Deane, Keith
Robson, David Speedie, Bertie Lyon, Paul Kitson, Norman Proctor, Les
Ferdinand, David Kelly, Tony Cottee, Jimmy Quinn.
Frank O'Farrell and Jimmy Bloomfield have played for the Hammers and managed
the Foxes.
Today's focus is on another who played for West Ham United and managed
Leicester City. Martin Allen was born in Reading on the 14th August 1965 and
started his professional career at QPR in 1984. Martin was born into the
famous footballing Allen family – the son of Dennis Allen (who played for
Reading, Charlton and Bournemouth), the nephew of Les and cousin of Paul,
Bradley and Clive. He played in the 1986 League Cup Final during his time at
Loftus Road before joining Lou Macari's West Ham United in the summer of
1989 for a fee of £670,000. He scored on his Hammers debut in a 3-2 home win
over Plymouth on 26th August 1989 and bagged another in his next appearance
at Upton Park in a 1-1 draw against Swindon. Allen scored an impressive 11
goals in 48 appearances in his first season with the club and also picked up
a red card in a League Cup quarter-final against Derby – it was Allen's
strike against Wimbledon that had booked the Hammers' place in the last
eight. He had gained a reputation as a midfielder with an eye for goal – his
combative nature in the middle of the park also lived up to his nickname,
'Mad Dog'.
Billy Bonds had taken over from Lou Macari midway through the 1989/90
campaign – Allen's goal at Middlesbrough had given Bonzo his first win as
Hammer manager. 1990/91 would see Allen spend more time as a substitute than
the previous season – he made 46 appearances but 12 of these were from the
bench. He scored five goals in this promotion-winning campaign – four came
in October 1990 with two in a League Cup second round second leg 2-2 draw at
Stoke and another double in a 2-1 home win over Charlton. His final goal of
the season was in the reverse match at Selhurst Park, Charlton's temporary
home, in a 1-1 draw.
The fateful First Division campaign of 1991/92 saw Allen spend a
considerable amount of time on the sidelines with an Achilles injury – he
scored two goals from 24 matches, both against Sunderland in a 3-2 FA Cup
fifth round replay defeat at Upton Park on 26th February 1992. Allen was a
key member of the 1992/93 promotion-winning side though, playing 44 matches
as he teamed up with new signing Peter Butler in midfield – the pair
provided a tough-tackling, no-nonsense approach which allowed wingers Kevin
Keen and Mark Robson to create for free-scoring Trevor Morley and Clive
Allen, Martin's cousin who had joined from Chelsea towards the end of the
previous campaign. 'Mad Dog' scored four goals – September strikes in a 2-1
home win over Watford and 3-1 triumph at Peterborough were followed by a
goal in a 6-0 smashing of Sunderland at Upton Park and another in a 4-0 home
victory over Brentford.
1993/94 saw 'Mad Dog' stamp his paws on the Premier League – he scored ten
goals in 34 matches. Most of his game time in the early months of the season
came from the bench and he only registered one goal before Christmas, in a
2-0 League Cup second round second leg win at Chesterfield. He won his place
back in January 1994 and scored three goals in as many matches – against
Watford in a 2-1 home win in the FA Cup third round, at Aston Villa in a 3-1
defeat and in a 3-3 home draw with Norwich – he kept his place in midfield
for the rest of the season as the Hammers consolidated their top-flight
status. A flurry of goals between March and May saw Allen bag six goals in
nine matches, including a delightful lofted effort over David James in a 2-1
home defeat to Liverpool and typical long-range efforts in a 2-1 home defeat
to Blackburn and 2-0 win at Arsenal. Although Ken Monkou did score an own
goal later in the 3-3 draw with Southampton on 7th May 1994, 'Mad Dog' holds
the distinction of being the last West Ham player to score in front of the
terraced North Bank having struck earlier in the second half of the game.
1994/95 saw Harry Redknapp take up the managerial reigns – Allen scored
twice in 33 appearances that season, in a 2-1 win at Chelsea and 2-0 home
win over Southampton, both in October 1994. Allen's final goal in claret and
blue came in a 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest on 26th August 1995. His last
appearance for the club was four days later in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham at
Upton Park. After the death of his father Dennis, who used to watch Martin
from the West Stand at Upton Park, Allen decided it was too emotional to
play at Upton Park and left the club for Portsmouth in August 1995. He had
made 232 appearances for the club, scoring 35 goals. 33 of Mad Dog's 35
goals can be seen in my video below.
After two years at Fratton Park, Allen moved to Southend where he ended his
playing career in 1998. He began his managerial career as assistant to Alan
Pardew at his hometown club Readingand managed Barnet, Brentford and MK Dons
before getting the Leicester job in May 2007. Due to a strained relationship
with chairman Milan Mandaric, mainly revolving around player transfers,
Allen was only in charge for four games before leaving the club on 29th
August 2007. He won two, drew one and lost one of his matches with the
Foxes.
Now 52, Allen has since managed Cheltenham, Barnet (on three further
occasions), Notts County, Gillingham and Eastleigh.
Referee
The referee on Friday will be Martin Atkinson, who most recently refereed
our last Friday night match – the 3-0 home defeat to Brighton. He was also
in charge of our 4-0 opening weekend defeat at Manchester United on 13th
August. 2017/18 is Atkinson's 13th as a Premier League referee. Since West
Ham United achieved promotion back to the top flight in 2012 Atkinson has
refereed 19 of our league matches, officiating in nine wins for the Hammers,
two draws and eight defeats.
Atkinson also refereed the Hammers' FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford in
March 2016, when he turned down appeals for a penalty after Marcos Rojo
appeared to have tripped Dimitri Payet and failed to spot Bastian
Schweinstieger's block on Darren Randolph as Man Utd equalised late on. He
refereed last September's 4-2 home defeat to Watford and October's 1-0 win
at Crystal Palace, when he controversially sent off Aaron Cresswell for two
very harsh yellow cards in quick succession. His previous Hammers
appointments this calendar year were our 3-1 win at Middlesbrough in January
and our 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in April.
Possible line-ups
West Ham United have lost only three of their last 30 home matches against
Leicester stretching back to 1967, with 21 victories and 6 draws against the
Foxes in that time. David Moyes will be without Chicharito, Sam Byram, James
Collins, Jose Fonte and Michail Antonio. Marko Arnautovoic and Andre Ayew
are both available. Andy Carroll has gone 12 hours and 49 minutes without a
goal – spanning 10 games – since scoring against Hull on 1st April.
Leicester City manager Claude Puel will be without Robert Huth and Matty
James. Leicester failed to register an attempt on target in a Premier League
game for the first time in 13 months against Manchester City last weekend.
The Foxes could record three successive away victories in this fixture for
the first time. They had only won one of their 28 league visits to east
London prior to back-to-back victories in the past two seasons.
Possible West Ham United XI: Hart; Zabaleta, Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell;
Kouyate, Noble, Obiang; Ayew, Lanzini; Carroll.
Possible Leicester City XI: Schmeichel; Simpson, Maguire, Morgan, Fuchs;
Iborra, Ndidi; Mahrez, Albrighton, Gray; Vardy.
Enjoy the game – Come On You Irons!
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Crystal Palace set to battle relegation-scrap rivals West Ham over transfer
of Harry Arter from Bournemouth
David Moyes wants the midfielder for the looming fight against the drop —
and so does counterpart Roy Hodgson
The Mirror
ByDarren Lewis
22:30, 23 NOV 2017
Crystal Palace are now rivalling West Ham's interest in Harry Arter. We
revealed a fortnight ago that the Hammers' new manager David Moyes is keen
on Bournemouth's Republic of Ireland international as he searches for more
mobility and bite in midfield. Rock-bottom Palace are in a similar position
to their 18th-placed London neighbours, with Roy Hodgson looking to freshen
up the squad he inherited from the sacked Frank de Boer in September when
the winter transfer window opens. Arter, 27, signed an improved four-year
contract in June – but a number of clubs are ready to test his commitment to
Bournemouth. Plucked from non-League Woking, Arter was among a core of Eddie
Howe signings central to the Cherries' sensational rise through all four
divisions to the Premier League since 2010.
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David Moyes hoping to unite West Ham fans after supporters chant against
Hammers board
ANDY SIMS
ES Sport
David Moyes is desperate to give West Ham's supporters something to shout
about other than their anti-board chants. The Hammers fans vented their
anger at joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold, and vice-chair Karren
Brady, during the 2-0 defeat at Watford last Sunday. They remain unhappy
about the move from Upton Park to the former Olympic Stadium as well as some
dire displays which have left West Ham in the relegation zone. New boss
Moyes will oversee his first game at the London Stadium when they host
Leicester on Friday night, and he hopes a decent performance will get the
fans back on side. "I've been there a couple of times this week and it's
brilliant," he said. "We are going to be there for the next 100 years. "When
teams move to stadiums it can be difficult - it wasn't that easy for Arsenal
at the Emirates - but we need to get used to winning there. "We need to give
the supporters something to shout about and something that looks half
decent, and then they will support us. "I want everyone to be together. I am
not aware of the problems before I came, I was a bit surprised when I heard
(the board criticism). "I want them behind us to give us a chance of
winning."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
David Moyes's first home match as West Ham United manager comes on Friday as
the Hammers welcome Leicester City to London Stadium.
Read on for all the information you need about this fixture, including team
news, quotes, and match history.
Where and when?
West Ham United v Leicester City will be played at London Stadium on Friday
24 November, with kick-off set for 8pm.
How to follow:
West Ham's clash with Leicester City will be live on Sky Sports across their
Premier League and Main Event channels.
Initial build up will begin on the Premier League channel at 7pm while Main
Event will start broadcasting at 7.30pm.
Live match updates will be provided through the official West Ham Twitter
account.
You can also follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com.
You can also follow the match on our official Instagram, Facebook and
Snapchat channels.
Live audio coverage will also be provided by BBC Radio 5 Live.
Meet the opposition:
0:25
Team news:
David Moyes is yet to offer an update on his squad ahead of Friday's match.
The West Ham United manager's press-conference on Thursday afternoon will
likely provide insight as to which players are available.
Fans will look for updates on Marko Arnautovic, who came off last week
against Watford, and James Collins, who has been back in training after a
lengthy lay-off.
Team news for both the Hammers and Leicester City will be updated as soon as
the respective managers speak to the media.
Match Officials:
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistant Referees: Peter Kirkup & Constantine Hatzidakis
Fourth Official: Jonathan Moss
Last Five Meetings:
0:44
What they Say:
"We have to work hard for the next game and forget about the last one
because what happened, happened."
Pedro Obiang
How to get there:
There are four train stations that supporters are recommended to utilise to
reach London Stadium: Stratford Station, Stratford International, Hackney
Wick and Pudding Mill Lane.
By Underground
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini hails 'incredible' West Ham United supporters
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has hailed the "incredible" support of the West Ham United
fans ahead of Friday's Premier League contest with Leicester City. The Irons
return to action with the weekend's early fixture as David Moyes prepares
for his first match at London Stadium as West Ham manager, against the
Foxes. Over 50,000 loyal West Ham fans will pack into the Stadium to cheer
on the home side versus Leicester City, and Lanzini has said the players are
fully appreciative of the support they receive. The Argentinian maestro
promised the fans that the team is working hard to escape the relegation
zone and want to put smiles on their faces – starting against Leicester.
"The West Ham fans are incredible," Lanzini said. "They support us wherever
we go and they always cheer us on, even if things aren't going our way. "We
will give our absolute all to turn this around. As players, we are the first
people to be angry about our current situation. Where we are at the moment
is no good for anyone and none of us are happy. It's always a wonderful
feeling when you're making the fans happy. "The fans are a huge part of the
game. We try to do our best for ourselves and our families to get results,
but especially for the people and the fans that support us. We thank them
for their support."
Following the defeat at Watford captain Mark Noble confessed that the
confidence at West Ham was suffering slightly, a sentiment that Lanzini has
echoed. However, the No10 insists the hard work the team is putting in will
lead to positive results. He added: "At the moment the combination of our
performances and league position means our confidence is not at 100 per
cent. I think we need to keep things simple in the way we play in order to
increase our confidence.
"I have full belief in this team. We have some very good players here and
we're all working hard to implement the manager's ideas and to pick up more
points."
The 24-year-old also offered an insight into training under Moyes, who is
now in his third week in charge of the Hammers. Lanzini believes he and his
teammates are close to reaching what the West Ham boss is looking for in his
players. "We've been working on our intensity in games, and our link-up
play," Lanzini revealed. "We're trying to develop our game and his game all
together and I hope we can succeed. We're not far away from that. "It's down
to our intelligence as players in terms of being able to put into practice
what the coach wants from us. We are taking on his ideas and putting them
into practice, in terms of the intensity, and I think we are doing well."
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Hammers kick-off Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will kick-off the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign at
Friday's Premier League fixture with Leicester City at London Stadium. The
Hammers will be the first of the 92 Premier League and EFL clubs to support
the week-long initiative, which campaign to make football everyone's game,
with national teams, leading clubs, professional players, fans and
grassroots players from across football showing their support for LGBT
people in sport. The London Stadium adorned with a rainbow-branded ball
plinth, pitch flags, handshake and timing boards, while Mark Noble will wear
a rainbow-coloured captain's armband. Joint-Chairman David Sullivan says
West Ham are determined to ensure London Stadium remains a place where all
supporters can enjoy football in comfortable surroundings.
"We are proud to kick-off Stonewall's Rainbow Laces Week tonight and support
a cause that is very important to everyone at West Ham United," said Mr
Sullivan.
"We have an excellent relationship with our fantastic Pride of Irons
supporters' club, who help us ensure LGBT fans feel completely welcome at
London Stadium. I am sure every one of you will show your support this
evening."
Those sentiments were echoed by manager David Moyes. "We are proud to be
kicking-off Stonewall's Rainbow Laces Week this evening, which will be
helping promote a strong message across sport over the next seven days,"
said Moyes. "Football is a game for everyone, and I am sure you will all
agree it is important that absolutely nobody feels unwelcome when watching
or playing sport."
Jim Dolan is co-chairman of West Ham United's LGBT supporters' club Pride of
Irons and believes the Hammers are leading the way when it comes to creating
an inclusive environment, not only at London Stadium, but throughout the
Club. "West Ham is a Club that supports all of its fans and isn't just about
ticking boxes. Since the creation of Pride of Irons, the Club have been in
full support from sending Hammerhead to the London Pride Parade to asking us
to come in to the Club to provide training to Supporter Liaison Officers
around LGBT issues. "And for anyone who thinks we're isolating ourselves as
a group, that's not the case. Around a quarter of our members are straight
and all are invited to join. We want to create a supportive environment for
LGBT fans and their families which can only be achieved with acceptance and
support from every fan in the stands."
To find out more about the campaign and buy your own pair of Rainbow Laces
click here, then tweet a picture of you wearing them and tag @StonewallUK
and #RainbowLaces to show your support.
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Rainbow Laces: A message from Pride of Irons
WHUF.com
Pride of Irons co-chairman Jim Dolan says West Ham United are working
tirelessly to make LGBT supporters feel welcome at London Stadium...
Tonight's match marks the launch of the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign.
Initially created by an online betting site, the campaign has been adopted
by the LGBT charity Stonewall in partnership with the Premier League. But
what's it all about? What's it for? Simply, it is to highlight awareness of
LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) fans in football and to
highlight problems around homophobia – highlighted this season with the
promotion of Brighton & Hove Albion, who have notoriously received historic
homophobic abuse. Added to that, it's 2017 and we still don't have an out
footballer in the Premier League. Now we know they're there. We've had at
least two play for us. The first – although briefly – was Justin Fashanu,
who later tragically took his own life. More recently, Der Hammer – Thomas
Hitzlsperger – who chose to come out only just after retiring from the game.
There have also been several reports of gay players having discussions with
footballing authorities around what will happen should they come out.
So why aren't players able to? After all, in this day and age you'd think it
wasn't a big deal, right? LGBT people have all the same rights as everyone
else, so what's the problem? Players need to know that they have support in
the stands and LGBT fans need that support too. Although initiatives like
Rainbow Laces are good annual gestures, there's more to it than waving a
rainbow flag once a year. Acceptance in the stands is not the same as taking
part in a single event which some could say is a box-ticking exercise.
Fortunately, West Ham United is a Club that supports all of its fans and
isn't just about ticking boxes. Since the creation of Pride of Irons (West
Ham's official LGBT+ fan group) the club has been in full support, from
sending Hammerhead to the London Pride Parade to asking us to come in to the
club to provide training to SLOs (Supporter Liaison Officers) around LGBT
issues. And for anyone who thinks we're isolating ourselves as a group,
that's not the case. Around a quarter of our members are straight and all
are invited to join. We want to create a supportive environment for LGBT
fans and their families, which can only be achieved with acceptance and
support from every fan in the stands. One day we won't be talking about
Rainbow Laces and Pride of Irons won't exist, because homophobia will be
seen by the footballing community to be as abhorrent as racism is by most
today. But until that day, please join us and let your fellow fans know that
they are welcome, whatever their sexuality, gender, colour, race or level of
ability. Because we are all West Ham together.
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Hammers will go back to basics tonight - Cottee
WHUFC.com
West Ham United legend Tony Cottee believes West Ham United manager David
Moyes will go 'back to basics' in his first home game in charge. The Hammers
host Leicester City at London Stadium on Friday evening and Cottee, who also
played for the Foxes during his illustrious career, has called for unity
among the Claret and Blue Army.
Writing in the Official Programme, Cottee hopes his boyhood club will secure
the victory that will kick-start their 2017/18 Premier League season under
the Friday night lights...
Since arriving at the Club, David Moyes has spoken on a few occasions about
the imbalance in his squad. He said last week that he has four players who
all want to play on the left side in attack, while injuries and illness left
him light in certain areas last week. Much has also been made of the stats
showing that we are at the bottom for distance covered and other physical
levels, but the only statistic that really matters is the fact that we are
in the bottom three. It is obvious that we are not doing things as well as
we should be, both individually and as a team. The manager obviously
understands the position we are in but he can't make changes to personnel
until January, and we have ten games before then, so he needs to find a
solution that can grind out some results.
I think it is really a case of going back to basics, particularly in
defensive areas, and quickly finding a system and formation that the players
are happy and comfortable with. Make no mistake, we have some talented
players, but they are low on confidence at the moment, and the manager's job
is to lift that in any way he can. David is right in that it starts with
hard work on the training pitch.
The international break meant that he didn't get a chance to work with all
his players until just a couple of days before the Watford game, and I'm
sure he will have gained a lot more from training this week, with everyone
together and focused on what is needed this evening. This is a very good
counter-attacking Leicester team, it's how they won the Premier League, and
they still have a large percentage of that side at the club. I watched them
against Stoke a couple of weeks ago and you know what you are going to get.
They are very dangerous on the break and we have to be aware of that. We
can't afford to throw men forward gung-ho or play too high a line, because
one hoof forward and suddenly Jamie Vardy is away on goal. I'm sure David
and the players will have worked hard this week on what is required, and I
genuinely think we will be far better prepared to face Leicester than we
were to face Watford. The start to the game is going to be very important
and, as always, both players and supporters have a big role to play in that
sense. If the players begin with passion, high tempo and intensity, the
crowd will respond accordingly. Let's all hope this is the start of our
turnaround this season.
*Tony Cottee played 336 games for West Ham United between 1983 and 1996,
scoring 146 goals, and was voted Hammer of the Year in 1986
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Brady warns: We're not quitters
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 24th November 2017
By: Staff Writer
Vice-chair Karren Brady has reacted to calls for her to resign by announcing
"we are not quitters". Brady, who has been charged with overseeing the
botched move to Stratford used her column in a tabloid newspaper today to
warn fans that she and her employers, David Sullivan and David Gold, were
going nowhere. "At West Ham, none of us ever begin a season preparing
ourselves for a tough one," she wrote. "We all start the season brimming
with optimism, excited for what might lie ahead and the good times it may
bring. "We are all guilty of that and that's why it hurts us all so much to
be in the position we currently find ourselves. But that is when West Ham
supporters are historically at their best — and that is when David Sullivan,
David Gold and I are at our best. "We are not quitters and we are here to
honour our commitment and cement the long-term future of West Ham United FC.
We are here to see the children who became season-ticket holders last year,
grow up and bring their children to watch their first match at London
Stadium."
Brady also insisted that, despite claims to the contrary, she cared deeply
about the club - the running of which, she added, had required great
personal "sacrifice" from the two chairmen. "A quarter of a century in
football has ensured my chairmen, David Gold and David Sullivan, and I have
developed a thick skin for criticism," she added. "I have seen a lot of
people this week say we don't care and that couldn't be any further from the
truth. "David Sullivan and David Gold have given eight years of blood, sweat
and tears to help West Ham escape a very perilous situation upon our
arrival, make the club financially sustainable and realise an ambitious
stadium move, all of which have come with great challenges and sacrifice."
And in response to those who called for her dismissal last weekend at
Watford, she added: "For those who made their feelings known as loudly as
possible at Watford last week, we understand the frustration, we hear your
complaints and we really do care. "However, for 90 minutes tonight let's
all pull in the same direction and be West Ham. United."
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David Gold and David Sullivan will not quit West Ham, says Karren Brady
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 24/11/17 9:55am
SSN
Karren Brady insists West Ham co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold have
no intention of quitting the club, despite a certain section of fans calling
for them to sell following the Hammers' poor start to the season. West Ham
currently sit 18th in the Premier League, having won only two of their
opening 12 matches and tasted defeat in David Moyes' first match in charge
away at Watford last Sunday. Moyes subsequently called for West Ham to come
together as a club after fans protested against Gold and Sullivan's
ownership during the 2-0 loss at Vicarage Road, with a 'Sack The Board'
banner visible in the away end. Ahead of the Friday Night Football clash
against Leicester at London Stadium - live on Sky Sports Main Event &
Premier League HD - Brady insists she, Gold and Sullivan have no intention
of selling and are determined to turn the club's fortunes around. "We all
start the season brimming with optimism, excited for what might lie ahead
and the good times it may bring," Brady told The Sun. "We are all guilty of
that and that's why it hurts us all so much to be in the position we
currently find ourselves.
"But that is when West Ham supporters are historically at their best - and
that is when David Sullivan, David Gold and I are at our best. "We are not
quitters and we are here to honour our commitment and cement the long-term
future of West Ham United FC. "We are here to see the children who became
season-ticket holders last year, grow up and bring their children to watch
their first match at London Stadium. "But just one message for those who
made their feelings known as loudly as possible at Watford last week ... "We
understand the frustration, we hear your complaints and we really do care.
However, for 90 minutes tonight let's all pull in the same direction and be
West Ham United."
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David Moyes defends West Ham's Andy Carroll over aerial challenges
"We are in a country which wants to rule out simulation. But he stays up and
is hit by two people and gets zero protection"
Last Updated: 23/11/17 11:22pm
SSN
David Moyes has issued a staunch defence of Andy Carroll, arguing that the
West Ham striker warrants better treatment from referees over aerial
challenges.
Carroll has been involved in a series of incidents this season which have
raised debate over how he uses his arms to battle for possession but Moyes
believes there is no malicious intent from the 28-year-old. The former
Newcastle and Liverpool frontman was sent off against Burnley in October for
two yellow cards in quick succession following aerial battles and caught
Watford's Marvin Zeegelaar with his forearm last Sunday. "I think it's
becoming ridiculous," Moyes, who has argued that Carroll is often the
victim, said: "A couple of times people climbed over Andy and fouled him.
And all it was was, 'No that's OK, if it's Andy it's fine for that to go
on'. "Just before he was booked, he was scythed by two people. If it been
anyone else they would have gone down and taken a free-kick. Andy didn't.
"We are in a country which wants to rule out simulation. But he stays up and
is hit by two people and gets zero protection. "Every time Andy plays is
everyone going to say, 'That's a foul'? If they do then we've got to say now
that if you're six foot four you'd better go to basketball and stop being a
centre-forward. "I'm telling you, you can only jump with your arms for
leverage. It's my specialist subject. I was a centre-half. I needed to use
my arms for protection. If we are now saying you can't use your arms for
leverage then that isn't in the rules of football." Moyes has confirmed
Carroll will continue to lead the West Ham attack on Friday Night Football,
live on Sky Sports Premier League, despite an indifferent display during the
side's 2-0 defeat against Watford at Vicarage Road. The former Everton and
Manchester United manager has also admitted he will not shy away from making
his players aware if they are not reaching the heights he expects from them.
"I think players need to be told," he added. "I've told the players here, if
you're not doing it, I'm going to tell you. "I did also tell them that when
I stop shouting, you know you've got a problem. If I stop shouting at you,
you know I've given up on you."
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MATCH PREVIEW: WEST HAM V LEICESTER
By Dan Coker 24 Nov 2017 at 12:00
WTID
Blast from the past
New Year's Eve 1977 – Wings were number one with their double A-side
Christmas number one 'Mull of Kintyre/Girls' School', Star Wars was in UK
cinemas and, on the day which saw Bruce Forsyth step down as presenter of
The Generation Game after six years, the Hammers defeated the Foxes at Upton
Park in front of 25,355 spectators.
John McDowell (pictured) fired in a rasping drive for his only goal of the
season to give the Irons the lead. Derek Hales, sent clear by a Trevor
Brooking pass, made it two with his fifth goal in ten games to give the
hosts a 2-0 half-time lead.
David 'Psycho' Cross then scored his first ever goal in claret and blue,
getting on the end of Brooking's cross to score the first of his 97 goals
for West Ham United. The Hammers were 3-0 up but, typically for West Ham,
the game was not over – Steve Kember scored a freak goal from a cross which
looped over Bobby Ferguson to pull one back for the visitors. Scottish
goalkeeper Ferguson, playing in his first league game for 20 months, then
made a super save from a dipping shot by Roger Davies. Steve Sims added
another for Leicester with a looping header from a corner but the Hammers
held out to claim a 3-2 win and end 1977 on a happy note.
My video below shows all the goals from this game as well as Ferguson's save
and an interview with the former Hammers goalkeeper.
West Ham would go on to be relegated in a 1977/78 campaign that saw them
finish third from bottom, in 20th place, just one point behind QPR. Bryan
'Pop' Robson would be the Irons' top goalscorer with 11 goals in 41 matches
in 1977/78. Brooking was voted the Hammer of the Year and, for the only time
since 1961, there was no runner-up. The Foxes finished ten points behind the
Hammers, rooted to the bottom of the First Division table. Nottingham Forest
won the league and Ipswich won the FA Cup.
West Ham United: Bobby Ferguson, John McDowell, Billy Bonds, Tommy Taylor,
Frank Lampard, Alan Devonshire, Alan Curbishley, Trevor Brooking, Bryan
'Pop' Robson, Derek Hales, David Cross.
Leicester City: Mark Wallington, Tommy Williams (Steve Earle), Dave Webb,
Steve Sims, Dennis Rofe, Steve Kember, Jon Sammels, Eddie Kelly, George
Armstrong, Roger Davies, Billy Hughes.
Club Connections
Players who have represented both the Hammers and the Foxes include:
Goalkeepers: George Hebden, Colin Mackleworth.
Defenders: Gary Charles, Chris Powell, Dickie Pudan, Rufus Brevett, Paul
Konchesky, Dai Jones, Matthew Upson, Clive Clarke, Billy Oakes, Fred Milnes,
John Paintsil.
Midfielders: Andy Impey, Shaun Newton, Nolberto Solano, Franz Carr, Sid
Bishop.
Strikers: David Connolly, Albert Carnelly, Mike Newell, Brian Deane, Keith
Robson, David Speedie, Bertie Lyon, Paul Kitson, Norman Proctor, Les
Ferdinand, David Kelly, Tony Cottee, Jimmy Quinn.
Frank O'Farrell and Jimmy Bloomfield have played for the Hammers and managed
the Foxes.
Today's focus is on another who played for West Ham United and managed
Leicester City. Martin Allen was born in Reading on the 14th August 1965 and
started his professional career at QPR in 1984. Martin was born into the
famous footballing Allen family – the son of Dennis Allen (who played for
Reading, Charlton and Bournemouth), the nephew of Les and cousin of Paul,
Bradley and Clive. He played in the 1986 League Cup Final during his time at
Loftus Road before joining Lou Macari's West Ham United in the summer of
1989 for a fee of £670,000. He scored on his Hammers debut in a 3-2 home win
over Plymouth on 26th August 1989 and bagged another in his next appearance
at Upton Park in a 1-1 draw against Swindon. Allen scored an impressive 11
goals in 48 appearances in his first season with the club and also picked up
a red card in a League Cup quarter-final against Derby – it was Allen's
strike against Wimbledon that had booked the Hammers' place in the last
eight. He had gained a reputation as a midfielder with an eye for goal – his
combative nature in the middle of the park also lived up to his nickname,
'Mad Dog'.
Billy Bonds had taken over from Lou Macari midway through the 1989/90
campaign – Allen's goal at Middlesbrough had given Bonzo his first win as
Hammer manager. 1990/91 would see Allen spend more time as a substitute than
the previous season – he made 46 appearances but 12 of these were from the
bench. He scored five goals in this promotion-winning campaign – four came
in October 1990 with two in a League Cup second round second leg 2-2 draw at
Stoke and another double in a 2-1 home win over Charlton. His final goal of
the season was in the reverse match at Selhurst Park, Charlton's temporary
home, in a 1-1 draw.
The fateful First Division campaign of 1991/92 saw Allen spend a
considerable amount of time on the sidelines with an Achilles injury – he
scored two goals from 24 matches, both against Sunderland in a 3-2 FA Cup
fifth round replay defeat at Upton Park on 26th February 1992. Allen was a
key member of the 1992/93 promotion-winning side though, playing 44 matches
as he teamed up with new signing Peter Butler in midfield – the pair
provided a tough-tackling, no-nonsense approach which allowed wingers Kevin
Keen and Mark Robson to create for free-scoring Trevor Morley and Clive
Allen, Martin's cousin who had joined from Chelsea towards the end of the
previous campaign. 'Mad Dog' scored four goals – September strikes in a 2-1
home win over Watford and 3-1 triumph at Peterborough were followed by a
goal in a 6-0 smashing of Sunderland at Upton Park and another in a 4-0 home
victory over Brentford.
1993/94 saw 'Mad Dog' stamp his paws on the Premier League – he scored ten
goals in 34 matches. Most of his game time in the early months of the season
came from the bench and he only registered one goal before Christmas, in a
2-0 League Cup second round second leg win at Chesterfield. He won his place
back in January 1994 and scored three goals in as many matches – against
Watford in a 2-1 home win in the FA Cup third round, at Aston Villa in a 3-1
defeat and in a 3-3 home draw with Norwich – he kept his place in midfield
for the rest of the season as the Hammers consolidated their top-flight
status. A flurry of goals between March and May saw Allen bag six goals in
nine matches, including a delightful lofted effort over David James in a 2-1
home defeat to Liverpool and typical long-range efforts in a 2-1 home defeat
to Blackburn and 2-0 win at Arsenal. Although Ken Monkou did score an own
goal later in the 3-3 draw with Southampton on 7th May 1994, 'Mad Dog' holds
the distinction of being the last West Ham player to score in front of the
terraced North Bank having struck earlier in the second half of the game.
1994/95 saw Harry Redknapp take up the managerial reigns – Allen scored
twice in 33 appearances that season, in a 2-1 win at Chelsea and 2-0 home
win over Southampton, both in October 1994. Allen's final goal in claret and
blue came in a 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest on 26th August 1995. His last
appearance for the club was four days later in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham at
Upton Park. After the death of his father Dennis, who used to watch Martin
from the West Stand at Upton Park, Allen decided it was too emotional to
play at Upton Park and left the club for Portsmouth in August 1995. He had
made 232 appearances for the club, scoring 35 goals. 33 of Mad Dog's 35
goals can be seen in my video below.
After two years at Fratton Park, Allen moved to Southend where he ended his
playing career in 1998. He began his managerial career as assistant to Alan
Pardew at his hometown club Readingand managed Barnet, Brentford and MK Dons
before getting the Leicester job in May 2007. Due to a strained relationship
with chairman Milan Mandaric, mainly revolving around player transfers,
Allen was only in charge for four games before leaving the club on 29th
August 2007. He won two, drew one and lost one of his matches with the
Foxes.
Now 52, Allen has since managed Cheltenham, Barnet (on three further
occasions), Notts County, Gillingham and Eastleigh.
Referee
The referee on Friday will be Martin Atkinson, who most recently refereed
our last Friday night match – the 3-0 home defeat to Brighton. He was also
in charge of our 4-0 opening weekend defeat at Manchester United on 13th
August. 2017/18 is Atkinson's 13th as a Premier League referee. Since West
Ham United achieved promotion back to the top flight in 2012 Atkinson has
refereed 19 of our league matches, officiating in nine wins for the Hammers,
two draws and eight defeats.
Atkinson also refereed the Hammers' FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford in
March 2016, when he turned down appeals for a penalty after Marcos Rojo
appeared to have tripped Dimitri Payet and failed to spot Bastian
Schweinstieger's block on Darren Randolph as Man Utd equalised late on. He
refereed last September's 4-2 home defeat to Watford and October's 1-0 win
at Crystal Palace, when he controversially sent off Aaron Cresswell for two
very harsh yellow cards in quick succession. His previous Hammers
appointments this calendar year were our 3-1 win at Middlesbrough in January
and our 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in April.
Possible line-ups
West Ham United have lost only three of their last 30 home matches against
Leicester stretching back to 1967, with 21 victories and 6 draws against the
Foxes in that time. David Moyes will be without Chicharito, Sam Byram, James
Collins, Jose Fonte and Michail Antonio. Marko Arnautovoic and Andre Ayew
are both available. Andy Carroll has gone 12 hours and 49 minutes without a
goal – spanning 10 games – since scoring against Hull on 1st April.
Leicester City manager Claude Puel will be without Robert Huth and Matty
James. Leicester failed to register an attempt on target in a Premier League
game for the first time in 13 months against Manchester City last weekend.
The Foxes could record three successive away victories in this fixture for
the first time. They had only won one of their 28 league visits to east
London prior to back-to-back victories in the past two seasons.
Possible West Ham United XI: Hart; Zabaleta, Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell;
Kouyate, Noble, Obiang; Ayew, Lanzini; Carroll.
Possible Leicester City XI: Schmeichel; Simpson, Maguire, Morgan, Fuchs;
Iborra, Ndidi; Mahrez, Albrighton, Gray; Vardy.
Enjoy the game – Come On You Irons!
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Crystal Palace set to battle relegation-scrap rivals West Ham over transfer
of Harry Arter from Bournemouth
David Moyes wants the midfielder for the looming fight against the drop —
and so does counterpart Roy Hodgson
The Mirror
ByDarren Lewis
22:30, 23 NOV 2017
Crystal Palace are now rivalling West Ham's interest in Harry Arter. We
revealed a fortnight ago that the Hammers' new manager David Moyes is keen
on Bournemouth's Republic of Ireland international as he searches for more
mobility and bite in midfield. Rock-bottom Palace are in a similar position
to their 18th-placed London neighbours, with Roy Hodgson looking to freshen
up the squad he inherited from the sacked Frank de Boer in September when
the winter transfer window opens. Arter, 27, signed an improved four-year
contract in June – but a number of clubs are ready to test his commitment to
Bournemouth. Plucked from non-League Woking, Arter was among a core of Eddie
Howe signings central to the Cherries' sensational rise through all four
divisions to the Premier League since 2010.
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David Moyes hoping to unite West Ham fans after supporters chant against
Hammers board
ANDY SIMS
ES Sport
David Moyes is desperate to give West Ham's supporters something to shout
about other than their anti-board chants. The Hammers fans vented their
anger at joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold, and vice-chair Karren
Brady, during the 2-0 defeat at Watford last Sunday. They remain unhappy
about the move from Upton Park to the former Olympic Stadium as well as some
dire displays which have left West Ham in the relegation zone. New boss
Moyes will oversee his first game at the London Stadium when they host
Leicester on Friday night, and he hopes a decent performance will get the
fans back on side. "I've been there a couple of times this week and it's
brilliant," he said. "We are going to be there for the next 100 years. "When
teams move to stadiums it can be difficult - it wasn't that easy for Arsenal
at the Emirates - but we need to get used to winning there. "We need to give
the supporters something to shout about and something that looks half
decent, and then they will support us. "I want everyone to be together. I am
not aware of the problems before I came, I was a bit surprised when I heard
(the board criticism). "I want them behind us to give us a chance of
winning."
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