Daily WHUFC News - 28th April 2018

Team news: Adrian's chance to impress and Obiang's imminent comeback
WHUFC.com

David Moyes has urged Adrian to take his chance to impress in Sunday's Premier League clash with Manchester City. The Spanish goalkeeper returns to the starting XI with on-loan Joe Hart ineligible to face his parent club, and Moyes expects the No13 to be in for a busy afternoon against the champions. However, Adrian excelled in the narrow 2-1 defeat in the reverse fixture at the Etihad before Christmas and the manager is backing him to produce the goods again at London Stadium. "I hope he plays that well against Man City that he is available for the next one, that's the plan," said the boss, when asked if Adrian has the opportunity to stake his claim for the final four games of the Premier League campaign, and to start next season as the first-choice stopper. "If you get in and you do well, you're never going to play Man City without your goalkeeper having to play well, you've got to play well so we need a big game from Adrian on Sunday."

Moyes was also asked if Hart would remain in east London, but refused to be drawn on the futures of either of his two senior goalkeepers. "There are certainly no talks about whether it's Adrian or Joe Hart or anybody because until we are in a position of safety, we won't me making any decisions like that where we are going to be. So no, we've not discussed them."

On the injury front, Moyes is expecting to have the same squad, bar Hart, available to face Pep Guardiola's side to the one which drew at home with Stoke City and lost out late on at Arsenal. Manuel Lanzini is pushing for a return to the starting XI, while young goalkeeper Nathan Trott is set to be promoted to the first-team squad. While he may not be available to face City, midfielder Pedro Obiang is edging closer to a return from the knee injury he suffered in the Emirates FA Cup tie at Wigan Athletic in late January and could be fit for the final three games of the season against Leicester City, Manchester United and Everton. "I think near enough everybody is back," Moyes confirmed. "There is a chance that Pedro Obiang could be among us maybe for the last week of the season but at the moment, everybody who was available last weekend is available for Sunday."

Aside from the ineligible Hart, Winston Reid (knee), James Collins (hamstring), Sam Byram (ankle) and Michail Antonio (hamstring) remain on the sidelines.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ladies agree landmark Academy partnership with Barking Abbey School
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Ladies has agreed a partnership with Barking Abbey School Specialist Sports College to host the Club's Academy from the beginning of the 2018/19 season. The Hammers and the award-winning Barking Abbey Girls Football Academy, which was created in 2009, will join forces this summer to provide technical, vocational and educational training for aspiring female footballers aged between 16-18. West Ham United Ladies general manager Karen Ray believes the agreement will prove hugely positive for the Club, the school and the dozens of teenage players who will benefit every season. "We are very excited about this partnership and by the prospect of opening a flourishing and successful Academy," said Ray, who has guided West Ham United Ladies first-team through a 13-match unbeaten run which included two cup final victories. "This Academy will enable West Ham United Ladies to provide the additional development training required to increases opportunities for the girls participating in the Academy to become professional footballers.

"Our partnership with Barking Abbey School Specialist Sports College will also enable us to offer a multitude of academic courses – 25 A Level and five Level 3 BTEC National Courses – all of which are important for the holistic well-being of our student athletes and can potentially put them onto our higher education pathway with the University of East London, further enhancing their dual career opportunities. "Continuing the long-held ethos of West Ham United's world-famous Academy of Football, this partnership is about not just producing good footballers, but good people. The holistic development of individuals is paramount, with the players' physical and emotional wellbeing being a top priority."

Barking Abbey head coach Keith Boanas is relishing the prospect of working alongside West Ham United Ladies. "The aim of both Barking Abbey School and West Ham United Ladies is to develop girls capable of producing elite performance, so this partnership is a great fit for both parties, all in all," said Boanas, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence and has nearly 20 years of coaching experience in the women's game. Under my predecessor Sharon Brownlie, who now works for the Football Association, Barking Abbey developed a long track record of producing young players who have gone on to secure college scholarships in the United States and play at a high level in the women's game in both the US and this country. "In the future, we anticipate that this partnership with West Ham United will enable us to provide a pathway through the Academy to the elite level of the game in this country for players of an international standard, benefiting the player, the school, the club and the England national team."

Barking Abbey School's Sports Academy has won widespread acclaim, with OFSTED praising its 'unique blend of academic study, expert coaching, personalised training and high-quality competition'. The School's Girls Football Academy was created in 2009 and provides promising young student-athletes with access to a structured programme of high level training and fixtures, while also providing them with the opportunity to pursue their academic studies and coaching qualifications West Ham United Ladies striker Kelly Wealthall was on target as Barking Abbey retained the ESFA Schools' Cup last month again to fire the school through to the ECFA Premier League Cup final. To complete an impressive hat-trick, they are also through to the ECFA Premier League Women's Play-Off quarter-finals.

*If the West Ham United Ladies/Barking Abbey School Academy could be of interest to you, please email Keith Boanas at boanask@barkingabbeyschool.co.uk

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Ladies stars inspire the next generation
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Ladies stars Cara Connatser and Rosie Kmita paid a visit to the Club's Under-12s side recently to give out some valuable advice. The pair have been an important part of the 13-match unbeaten run Karen Ray's team have enjoyed since the turn of the year – a spell which has yielded two trophies as well as a climb up the FA Women's Premier League Southern Division table. Now, as the Hammers get behind the Football Association's Girls' Football week, which aims to raise participation in the sport, the pair were on hand to help inspire the next generation.

West Ham Ladies host Lewes in their penultimate game of the season at Rush Green this Sunday (kick-off 2pm). Admission is free for Season Ticket Holders, Claret Members and all Under-16s. Adult tickets are otherwise priced at £3

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rice: It's great to be part of this West Ham squad
WHUFC.com

Declan Rice says the 'close' support structure at West Ham United has been a major reason behind his breakout season in Claret and Blue. The teenager made it back-to-back Young Hammer of the Year awards this week, adding another accolade to a campaign that has seen him make 27 first-team appearances and a senior debut for the Republic of Ireland national team. While Rice's own attitude and talent have shone through, the ball-playing centre-half was quick to express his gratitude for the support and mentoring he has received both before and during this standout season, from his old Academy coaches, first-team staff and teammates alike. "You've only got to go into the Academy to see how much work is going. There are so many top people there working. Everyone has got an individual mentor and they are bringing top players through and now we are beating Manchester City and Manchester United, which shows how well we're doing as an Academy. "Credit to Terry Westley and his staff – Liam Manning, Steve Potts and Mark Phillips – for giving loads of players their opportunities. He's always putting good words in and trying to make you better as player. A massive thank you to all them for getting me to this point."

Rice graduated/ from the U23s to the first-team squad at the end of last season and his character, ability and willingness to learn have seen his older colleagues quickly accept the 19-year-old into the dressing room. Among those who have been most welcoming has been Hammer of the Year Marko Arnautovic, who lives near to Rice's family home in west London and often shares the morning drive into Rush Green with his young teammate. "All of the boys have been there for me and I think they're pleased to see a youngster come through," Rice revealed. "To be honest, I've been lucky to come through with this group of lads, who all look after me and have all been in my position, the likes of Joe Hart, Nobes, Ginge and Andy Carroll, everyone really. "That's the thing about this squad. We're all so close that anyone can go to anyone. It's great to be part of this squad and I can't wait to be part of it for a long time in the future.

"Marko has been like a brother to me. He's been excellent. We live quite close to each other and he sometimes brings me into training and we've got on really well since pre-season. Credit to him. He's been fantastic this year and he deserves everything he gets."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zoepfl: I couldn't have won award without my teammates
WHUFC.com

Ellie Zoepfl was quick to thank her West Ham United Ladies teammates after collecting the first Ladies Players' Player of the Year sponsored by Spire London East Hospital award at Wednesday's Player Awards. Zoepfl, who has scored an outstanding ten goals in 13 games for the Ladies as Karen Ray's side have gone unbeaten throughout 2018, got the vote from her fellow players to take the trophy ahead of a number of other outstanding performers, including Hannah Wheeler and Kelly Wealthall. But the American remained modest on receiving her prize, saying her achievements would not have been possible without the teammates around her. She said: "It feels really really good to win this award, but I wouldn't be anywhere without my teammates. "This has been my first season at the Club and I appreciate everything that has been done for me. The players and coaching staff give me the confidence to play how I've been playing. "Its been really easy to settle in since joining the Club earlier this season, the girls have been great and the coaching staff really supportive."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joe Hart and Adrian West Ham futures on hold until safety is secured, says David Moyes
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport

David Moyes has called on Adrian to repeat his heroics from the Etihad as he once more replaces Joe Hart against Manchester City. Having been kept out of the side under both Slaven Bilic and Moyes until the December meeting in Manchester, the Spanish 'keeper grasped his opportunity with both hands making a string of fine saves to keep the England international out of the side until the meeting with Burnley in April. With Hart once more ineligible to face his parent club, Adrian has another chance to take the number one spot back for the remainder of the season.
With the place up for grabs Moyes is hoping for another performance to make his choice for the final three Premier League games an easier one. "I hope he plays that well against Man City that he is available for the next one, that's the plan," the Hammers manager told reporters. "If you get in and you do well, you're never going to play Man City without your goalkeeper having to play well, you've got to play well so we need a big game from Adrian on Sunday." With both Hart and Adrian's futures up for debate this summer there is plenty at stake for both 'keepers, however, Moyes insists no decisions will be made before Premier League safety is assured. "There is certainly no talks about whether it's Adrian or Joe Hart or anybody until we are in a position of safety," he added. "We won't me making any decisions like that where we are going to be. "So no, we've not discussed them."

London Stadium has been both a help and a hindrance to West Ham at times this season. However, with the World Athletics Championships having forced the east Londoners out of their new home for the opening games of the season, three of their four remaining games are in Stratford. Despite another season of turmoil, though, Moyes and his squad feel ever more comfortable at London Stadium, and are looking to harness the home support during the run-in. "None of the games are easy, our home games are hard as well but if we had the choice then we'd have those three games at home. "Let's get the crowd behind us, who have been really good at home. I think the crowd and the players have really grown into the stadium much better. "Since the start when I first came it feels better and in my short time here, I think we are enjoying it a bit more now so hopefully that shows in the performances and the results."

Manchester City are, without doubt, the toughest of guests to entertain this season, however, a strong performance on Sunday would go a long way to assuring safety sooner rather than later

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
World Cup 2018: Why England must take Joe Hart to Russia
By Rachel Brown-Finnis
Former England goalkeeper and BBC pundit
BBC.co.uk

Everyone who says Joe Hart is not good enough to go to this summer's World Cup is missing the point - the West Ham goalkeeper is not England's best number one any more, but he is our best number three. Based on how well he is playing, of course Hart should not be on the plane to Russia. Out of all the regular goalkeepers in Europe's top five leagues, there are only two with a worse shot-to-save ratio this season.

West Ham keeper Joe Hart has saved 53 of the 91 shots on target he has faced in the Premier League this season. Of the 125 goalkeepers to have faced 20 or more shots in Europe's top five leagues - England, France, Spain, Italy and Germany - only two have a worse save % - Southampton's Alex McCarthy with 56.6% and Alberto Brignoli of Italian side Benevento with 56.3% Burnley's Nick Pope, who realistically is Hart's main rival for a place in the squad, is at the other end of that scale. While Hart has had a mostly miserable season and made several obvious errors, Pope has had an amazing one and been inspirational for his team.
But form is not the factor that England manager Gareth Southgate will be considering when he makes his decision about who will be back-up to Jordan Pickford and Jack Butland, despite everything Pope has going for him.

Nick Pope has the second-best save percentage in the Premier League this season, behind Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea (80.5%). Pope is ranked sixth in that statistic in Europe's big five leagues. The role of a third-choice keeper at a major tournament involves many things, but they hardly ever get on the pitch. Since 1934, only four out of the 435 teams to compete at World Cup finals have used all three of their keepers - and the last team to do it were Greece in 1994, after they had been eliminated.

Instead of looking for someone who might shine if they get a chance, Southgate will be looking for the right character and someone he can trust to support his team-mates and be a positive influence on the whole squad. That is not playing down what the role entails, though. I have heard being the number three goalkeeper described as simply being a cheerleader but, having done it at a major finals myself, there is a heck of a lot more to it than that. Yes, you are there to support the team, but you can be very influential while you do it. Do not underestimate the job by thinking Hart would just be going to Russia to help out in shooting practice.

Hart's form irrelevant

It has been suggested that Hart is playing his way out of Southgate's plans for Russia with performances like the one he put in against Stoke last week, when his fumble cost West Ham a goal with the England manager watching on. I don't think that is the case - nor does it matter that Hart cannot try to impress this weekend because he is ineligible to face Manchester City, his parent club. The things Southgate wants to see are more to do with what he will get from Hart in a training camp with a tight-knit environment, and he knows that already. If he makes it, these will be Hart's fifth major finals and his third World Cup - he has been first choice at all of them apart from the 2010 World Cup, when he was third choice. His experience will be invaluable to Pickford and Butland, who have played at several age-group finals but have been to only one tournament at senior level between them - in 2012, when John Ruddy's broken finger in training saw Butland bumped up from the standby list.

Gareth Southgate and Joe Hart

Joe Hart has been in every squad Gareth Southgate has named as interim or permanent England manager since he took charge in September 2016. In the 16 games that Southgate has been England manager, Hart has played in 11 of them and the only competitive game he has not featured in was the win over Lithuania in October 2017 just after England had qualified for the World Cup I know Southgate has shown himself to be a brave manager who is willing to make changes with some of his selections, but this is slightly different. It comes down to personality, not ability, and, despite calling Pope up into his last squad in March, Southgate cannot be sure of what he is like when he is away for five or six weeks - especially compared to Hart. In this situation I would expect him to go with what he knows.

Experience can improve the blend of the squad

The ranking of first, second and third keeper in any squad is usually clearly defined, and they will be this time too. I think Southgate will go for Pickford, Butland and Hart - in that order. Unlike any of the outfield players, the third-choice keeper does not travel to any tournament expecting to play, so Hart will have no illusions there. He will be aware of the dynamic that a group of keepers has at international level, and the part he has to play in it - which is to do everything he can to support the number one and number two during the tournament. While the second choice is looking to excel in training and has to be ready to step in at almost any time, including during games, the number three - or 23 in terms of their usual shirt number - is usually in the stand during matches. Hart will also be playing third fiddle to what the other two keepers need in training in the build-up to matches, but he is still important because of his knowledge - what he can suggest during those drills and also by offering some analysis and feedback before and afterwards. He would also be Pickford's confidant, and his go-to person for information on scenarios that the young Everton keeper has not been in before. Although it is possible Pickford may not want to seek advice from Hart, it is not even an option for him with Butland and Pope as the other keepers. I also think Hart would improve the blend of the whole squad. One of the things I like about Southgate is that he has given young players and new faces a chance, but an experienced older player can still bring something to the mix if they are still motivated. I don't know him personally but I am sure Hart's attitude is right. Southgate knows him well and he would not consistently pick him otherwise. Put all that together and he is the best fit to be the number three.

Who will be England's number one?

Joe Hart (second from left) has 75 England caps - the other three contenders have a total of nine between them. Jordan Pickford (far left) made his debut against Germany in November and won his second cap against the Netherlands in March. He is yet to concede a goal for the senior England team I am a huge fan of Pope, and put him on my shortlist for the player of the season because of the impact he has had in his first campaign in the Burnley team. While form is not important for the third-choice keeper, you could definitely argue that it should decide who is England's number one. On that basis, Pope who would be first choice, not fourth. He has played well consistently for the past few months too, not just recently. But it appears goalkeeper distribution is something that matters a lot to Southgate too, because of the way he wants England to play. That seems to give Pickford the edge, because he is excellent at it, and I would agree with that choice based on the same criteria that Southgate is using. We do not see Butland play out from the back very often for Stoke, or Pope for Burnley. Hart has never really looked comfortable doing it, which is one of the reasons his career has stalled. Pickford's ability with his feet is his big strength over the other keepers but he is also extremely confident, which makes me think he is ready for this stage. He does not make many mistakes but I don't think an error would faze him, which is crucial.

When Pickford joined Everton for £30m in June 2017, his manager during a loan spell at Preston, Simon Grayson, said: "He is vocal and he is a winner. He loves the pressure of being the best he can. He will be looking at the England situation at the moment and thinking the next port of call is to be England's number one. We felt he could have played outfield with the quality of his feet." You could argue a case for each of the keepers I have mentioned, though. It is unusual that England don't have an established number one at this late stage before a World Cup, but I don't see it as a problem - it is an exciting time. Hart did not really have any sort of steady competition during the years he was number one, so it is refreshing for Pickford and Pope to emerge now as well as seeing Butland stay consistently fit. That has coincided with Hart's dip in form to produce the situation we are in. However, there is no need to panic. We are not sure who will take the position long term, but we have some excellent goalkeepers to choose from. Rachel Brown-Finnis was speaking to BBC Sport's Chris Bevan.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No special treatment for Rice, insists Moyes
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

David Moyes has defended his decision to publicly criticise teenager Declan Rice following his error in the 4-1 defeat at Arsenal last weekend. The 19-year-old rookie, making only his 22nd Premier League appearance was castigated by the Scottish boss for failing to deal with a cross that led to the Gunners' second goal.
And despite the vast majority of supporters having subsequently accused Moyes of unfairly criticising the new Irish international, the manager insists that he was right to highlight the youngster's error - and, apparently, earlier faults too. "I thought we had done a good job last weekend against Arsenal," he told the Evening Standard. "That changed in the last eight minutes. Young Declan Rice has done great for us, but I don't think we can hide the fact that he should have just headed the ball away for their second goal. That's football. "If it was any player, I would have said the same thing. It doesn't matter whether you're 19 or 29, the message has to be the same. Of course, we understand he's a young, developing player, but you cannot hide the facts and that was a poor decision he made.

"Declan knows what he did and he's had one or two incidents this season. To be fair, though, his form in general has been very good, he's steadied down so we hope it is a blip and that he won't make a similar mistake again. "The truth is there are very few 19-year-old central defenders in the Premier League - if any. One of the reasons is should a young defender make a mistake and it costs the team, it costs the manager as well - and, ultimately, points."

Rice was introduced to the first team earlier in the season following lengthy injuries to established first team defenders Winston Reid and Angelo Ogbonna. Meanwhile the Board also sold established central defender Jose Fonte to Dalian Yifang for £5million in February.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes' 'keeper conundrum
KUMb.com
Filed: Friday, 27th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

David Moyes is still undecided which of his two goalkeepers to use for the remainder of the season. With the inconsistent Joe Hart unavailable to play against his parent club Manchester City this weekend, Moyes will revert to employing Adrian who last featured in the 4-1 defeat at Swansea at the beginning of March.
And according to Moyes, the Spanish stopper could secure the goalkeeper's jersey for the remainder of the campign if he impresses against the new Premier League champions.

"With Joe Hart ineligible for Sunday's game, Adrian comes back in," Moyes said in his Evening Standard column. "I've spoken with both goalkeepers over the last week. I thought that Joe's performance against Arsenal was really solid, similar to that against Chelsea a couple of weeks previously. "Yes, he made a mistake against Stoke, but what you do is bounce back and that is exactly what he did at the Emirates, where he made several really good saves. Now, though, Adrian has his chance and if he plays well against Manchester City, then I will stick with him. "It always has to be a case of getting into the team, grabbing that jersey and showing what you can do. We only have three games to go after Sunday and, should he play well, he'll stay in."

Moyes, whose continued appointment is backed by just 40 per cent of supporters according to a recent KUMB Forum poll, also used his column to congratulate Marko Arnautovic who was named as the latest Hammer of the Year earlier this week. "Marko has been an important member of the team and his goals have been valuable for us throughout the season," said Moyes, who has been widely credited with improving the Austrian international's fortunes. "I hope he continues to improve his game, keeps his work rate high and goes on to score many more for the club."

A tale of two 'keepers

Joe Hart: Pld 23; Conceded 37; Ave 1.6 gpg.
Adrian: Pld 18; Conceded 26; Ave 1.4 gpg.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hart set for La Liga role?
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

West Ham's on-loan goalkeeper Joe Hart could be heading for La Liga this summer. According to news emanating from Spain, the England international is one of Spanish club Sevilla's top targets this summer - with the Andalusians ready to do business with parent club Manchester City. Gol Digital claim that Los Rojiblancos have already made an offer for the 31-year-old, who has spent the season on loan at the Olympic Stadium, after West Ham confirmed thay would not be seeking to make Hart's stay permanent. Seville are keen to find a permanent solution to their goalkeeper problem, with neither Sergio Rico nor David Soria managing to convince manager Vincenzo Montella that they are the solution.
Hart's departure could potentially leave West Ham without a first team goalkeeper this summer, with fellow Hammer Adrian being similarly courted by former club Real Betis who are keen to be reunited with a player they sold to the Hammers in 2013. The Shrewsbury-born stopper, whose short-term contract at West Ham is worth in excess of £100,000 per week has featured on 23 occasions for United so far this season, conceding 37 goals at an average 1.6 goal per game.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM JOIN THE RACE TO SIGN JONNY EVANS
GEORGE ROGAN @georgerogan97
readWestHam

West Ham are looking sign West Brom defender Johnny Evans this summer, report the Mirror. Evans has a £3 million relegation release clause in his contract and is known to be on the radar of a number of Premier League clubs. Crystal Palace, Everton, Leicester and Newcastle are all interested in the Northern Irishmanm who will be high demand after a number of impressive seasons for club and country. West Brom are currently 20th in the Premier League and their relegation could be confirmed this weekend with three games still left to play. The Baggies are braced to lose the 30-year-old for a cut-price fee after rejecting a bid of £21 million for him from Manchester City last summer. The Hammers are looking to bring in a new centre-back this summer and with over 200 games of experience in the league, Evans looks the perfect fit. His current wages are around £50,000 a week, but Evans will likely want a pay rise and that should be no problem for the East London club as they look to bolster their side and finish in the top half next season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How West Ham might look next season after David Moyes' £60m transfer revolution
We're expecting a few new arrivals in east London this summer as the squad gets an overhaul
Football London
BySam Inkersole
West Ham Correspondent
12:00, 27 APR 2018

Should David Moyes stay as West Ham manager after the end of this season, providing the club is still in the Premier League of course, he is expected to be handed a war chest to overhaul the squad. The manager has already been scouting targets ahead of next season despite safety in the top-flight not being fully assured just yet after the 1-1 draw against Stoke City on Monday, with the Hammers three points away from the magical 40 which is generally enough for survival.
After two seasons of struggle on the pitch since leaving the Boleyn Ground and moving to the London Stadium in the summer of 2016, the squad is in need of a revolution, an overhaul if you will. That will mean players coming in but also, players coming out. As always, the Hammers have been linked with plenty of players over the last couple of months, it's part and parcel of being associated with the club and if they signed everyone they have been linked with, the squad could be about 100 players deep. But, lets be sensible for a minute and look at realistic targets who the club have been rumoured to make a move for and that would fit in the squad. For a bit of fun, this is how West Ham could look next season if Moyes was to complete a bit of a transfer overhaul in E20.

In goal, Sam Johntone could be the answer. The Manchester United stopper has had an excellent season on-loan at Aston Villa but a lot will depend on whether the Villains are promoted back to the Premier League as no doubt they'll have first option. With Joe Hart and Adrian not impressing this season at West Ham, the club were linked with a swoop for Johnstone in March and will likely be after a new keeper this summer.

In defence, there isn't too much change with the only new addition potentially being Fulham right back Ryan Fredericks, who has been scouted a number of times by the Hammers and is out of contract at Craven Cottage this summer. Fredericks has yet to commit to a new deal in west London and again, a lot could depend on how the Cottagers perform in the play-offs.

Midfield could see a bit of a change with two new faces in the shape of Fulham captain Tom Cairney, heavily linked with a move to east London in January with an apparent £20m bid rejected. Cairney was also suspiciously spotted right behind David Moyes in the dugout at Stamford Bridge earlier this month.

Leander Dendoncker is the other new face, having come very close to a move to the Hammers in January. There are reports that Atletico Madrid have a 20m euro option to sign him but they don't have to if they don't want to so the Hammers aren't out of the running. A new central midfielder or two is a must for the Hammers this summer. They came close to getting him in January, the player wanted the move, but it fell through on deadline day.

The other potential new face is Xherdan Shaqiri of Stoke, who is certain to leave the club if they are relegated this summer. Everton and Crystal Palace have also been linked as well as the Hammers for a player that Moyes could see as a challenge, much like he revolutionised Marko Arnautovic since taking over. Shaqiri, on his day, is a mercurial talent but you just never know which Shaqiri is going to turn up on any given matchday.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leon Britton posts reminiscent Tweet about joining West Ham's academy
HITC
Will Butcher

Swansea City midfielder Britton started out at Arsenal before chancing his arms at West Ham. Swansea City midfielder Leon Britton has recalled his decision to turn down a professional deal at Arsenal to join West Ham United on Twitter, posting sarcastically "that decision worked out well". The 35-year-old midfielder remains on the books at Swansea though his current contract with the club is set to expire at the end of the season, in a campaign in which he took temporary charge of the side for two matches. Britton joined Arsenal's academy aged just nine in 1991, but after seven years he chose to turn a professional contract down to move across London to West Ham in 1998. However, five years in east London failed to produce even one senior Hammers appearance and Britton posted on Twitter to reminisce about his decision to join West Ham.

Leon Britton
✔
@Britts_7
Throw back to nearly 20 years ago when Arsenal offered me terms as an apprentice and professional. Turned it down to join West Ham thinking I would get a better opportunity, that decision worked out well 🙈😂 #TBT

5:49 PM - Apr 26, 2018

In his final year at West Ham, Britton joined Swansea on loan for the 2002-03 season and completed the move on a permanent basis at the end of his loan after being named Player of the Year with the Welsh side. Britton remained at Swansea until joining Sheffield United in 2010, but rejoined the Welsh side just a year later. It remains to be seen if the England youth international will stay on at the Liberty Stadium this summer.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Davie Selke is West Ham's most exciting transfer target in ages
HITC
Danny Owen

Premier League duo West Ham and Brighton and Hove Albion want Germany U21 striker Davie Selke from Bundesliga outfit Hertha Berlin. If West Ham had signed Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Patrice Evra and Javier Hernandez about five or six years ago, they would have the nucleus of a fantastic Premier League side. But that is the problem. The Hammers signed those once top class performers well past their peak and, perhaps unsurprisingly, fans have been left underwhelmed with their big name signings failing to make the required impact. Reports in SportBILD, however, claim that West Ham are targeting a deal far removed from last years' attempts to sign once world class players on a cheap. It is understood that they and Premier League rivals Brighton are both interested in Hertha Berlin's Davie Selke, who has all the potential and the raw talent to be a future Germany number nine. The 23-year-old, who is understood to be valued at around £18 million, has recovered from an underwhelming stint at RB Leipzig and has starred for Hertha this season. Powerful, quick and blessed with a 6ft 3ins frame, Selke has scored a very impressive 12 goals in 20 starts this season and has been by far the most dangerous attacker at Pal Dardai's disposal. This excellent breakthrough season has followed a fine summer with the Germany U21s, for whom he helped win the European Championships, scoring a brilliant dividing header along the way against England in the semi-finals. West Ham were first linked with Selke in January 2017, according to The Mail, and now would be the right time to sign a player who, unlike so many of their recent signings, has a very bright career ahead of him.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE INFLUENCE OF LEGACY - YOU'LL REAP WHAT YOU SOW
By Goatygav 27 Apr 2018 at 08:00
WTID

Arsenal should, very carefully, appoint the right manager to continue, as well as enhance, Arsene Wenger's legacy.

There are a whole raft of kids coming through the ranks at Arsenal. Over the period of his tenure Monsieur Wenger has nurtured and brought through youth prospects successfully. Their academy has produced some of the best talent in the country with technical proficiency. The players that have come through the yout system there can't speak of him too highly – often crediting him with the great start that he gave them in the game. To a surprising extent in fact. The recent interview with Theo Walcott was a prime example of the esteem that players hold Arsene in.

Will West Ham take such care in to consideration when appointing the next gaffer? Ok – we're a completely different club with a manager who certainly doesn't hold the same sway over the running of the club as Arsene did but should that detract from the concept of having the right balance between player recruitment and youth development? Not for me it doesn't. And that's one aspect of David Moyes' MO that I do like. If he's given the job then we're likely to see more of our young prospects given a chance in the team.

Since his arrival Declan Rice has been a regular starting berth, albeit by getting his chance through injuries to central defenders, and has visibly grown. One of the highlights of the season was Declan's MOTM performance for Ireland and West Ham a few weeks back. So pleased for the lad who I hope stays on to become a club legend for us in years to come.

Declan is not the only one. Josh Cullen has made 5 appearances for the first team this season and has done a decent job when given his chance. Other who've progressed this term have been Quina, with 4 outings, Burke with 3, Martinez played 3 and Oxford and Holland on 1 (would probably have been more if not for injury). Not all of these were played by David Moyes however there's more than just a hint that players will be given a fair crack at the whip rather than played for 90 minutes then consigned back to the development squad, or loan, after a single mistake or poor game.

I hear a great deal of 'he's not the manager to take us to the next level' but he is a manager to build youthful teams who develop together and play fast paced, incisive football. At both Preston and Everton Moyes seemed to have a talent for taking players with good potential and integrating them in to a system where everyone knew their job and what was expected whilst getting the best out of them. It was a completely different story at Manchester United, Real Sociedad and Sunderland where the task was more immediate and, sadly for David Moyes, too short lived for him to make a significant impact. Since joining West Ham he's certainly improved the performances of Mark Noble and others – most notably Marko Arnoutovic who's looking a shoe in for HOTY after picking up the Player's Player of the Year award last night (as I write). Perhaps it's time to invest in the future rather than looking no further than the end of our noses.

In summary I wouldn't be too upset if David Moyes is given the job next season. I'm not suggesting that I'm 100% in favour of a contract for the Scot but I'm certainly not completely against the idea of him getting the gig. Given time I do believe that he'll give us a team to be proud of once more filled with talented, young professionals, some of whom will be home grown, playing to a reconginsable system and identity.

Lastly a big congrats to the winners at the awards. Well deserved to all. Pedro definitely deserved the goal of the season, Arnie for both of his awards, glad Declan got the recognition for the young player, Conor Coventry's Dylan Tombides award and Ellie Zoepfl for the inaugural 'Ladies Players Player'. The ladies have gone on an incredible winning run, chalking up an amazing 32(thirty two) goals scored and only 2 conceded in the last 6 games incorporating two cup final wins :O! Brilliant stuff.

I was particularly pleased to see Ken Brown given the lifetime achievement award. A solid centre back and popular member of that great team of the late '50's and '60's I'm so pleased to see him recognised with the great honour.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 27th April 2018

Arnautovic crowned Betway Hammer of the Year
WHUFC.com

Marko Arnautovic has been crowned as the 2017/18 Betway Hammer of the Year.
The Austria international forward has been recognised for his outstanding
season for West Ham United by becoming the 40th different player to win the
acclaim of the Claret and Blue Army. Arnautovic, who has scored ten goals
and registered four assists in 31 appearances, won 68 per cent of the vote,
with Declan Rice finishing as runner-up, and Pablo Zabaleta third. "This
award that I have received today, I am very happy and very proud," he said.
"I want to keep doing my job for this Club because I came here to do my job
and everybody has seen what I can do and that I'm very happy to be here and
I want to keep doing it. "I want to thank every single fan who supports West
Ham for this award. It means a lot to me. It was hard for me at the
beginning of the season but now it's going well and I want to do my job for
many years to come. We are not finished yet. "I try to do my best. The
gaffer gave me some advice which was to run hard and do my best and I did
it. All the players helped me. I love them and they love me - you can hear
this! "The best moment? Of course scoring goals is a good moment for me, but
to receive these awards is the best moment so far for me. I'll do my best in
the last four games, I'll give everything and then we're going to go on
holiday and come back and do better next season. "Thank you all for this and
I love you all!"

Arnautovic has enjoyed a superb debut season in E20, scoring those ten goals
in his last 16 Premier League appearances, during a hot run of form over the
winter and spring months Having signed for a Club record fee from Stoke City
in the summer, Arnautovic's first goal for the Hammers was a memorable one,
as he fired David Moyes' men to a 1-0 London Stadium triumph over Chelsea in
December. He followed that with four more strikes before 2017 was out – one
at his former side Stoke, another against Newcastle and a Boxing Day brace
at AFC Bournemouth. Arnautovic's appetite for goals showed no sign of
slowing as the calendar turned over into 2018, with vital contributions at
Huddersfield Town and against Watford and Southampton at home, helping the
Hammers to important victories.
He reached double figures with a fierce strike in last Sunday's defeat at
Arsenal, becoming the first Hammer to hit ten Premier League goals in a
season since Diafra Sakho in 2014/15. Arnautovic's Hammer of the Year
honours capped his three trophies at the 2017/18 Player Awards brought to by
Betway in aid of the Academy, which were held at InterContinental London –
The O2 on Wednesday night.

Award Winners

Betway Hammer of the Year – Marko Arnautovic

Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by JM Sealant Contracts – Ken Brown

Goal of the Season sponsored by Mulalley & Co – Pedro Obiang v Tottenham
Hotspur

Signing of the Season sponsored by Lycamobile – Marko Arnautovic

Players' Player of the Season sponsored by Peter Rayney Tax Consulting –
Marko Arnautovic

Young Player of the Year sponsored by Eurostat Office Supplies – Declan Rice

Dylan Tombides Award sponsored by Blue Cube Security – Conor Coventry

Ladies Players' Player of the Year sponsored by Spire London East Hospital
– Ellie Zoepf

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Magical Marko named Players' Player of the Year
WHUFC.com

Marko Arnautovic picked up his second award of the night when he was named
2017/18 Players' Player of the Year sponsored by Peter Rayney Tax
Consulting.
Arnautovic won the acclaim of his fellow players after smashing in ten goals
– six of them coming in winning efforts – since his summer 2017 move from
Stoke City.
The Austrian is a popular figure in the dressing room and he beat off
competition from the likes of Pablo Zabaleta, Declan Rice, Angelo Ogbonna
and Aaron Cresswell to follow Manuel Lanzini in winning this prize.
Arnautovic was earlier named the Signing of the Season sponsored by
Lycamobile

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ellie Zoepfl wins inaugural Ladies Players' Player of the Year prize
WHUFC.com

Ellie Zoepfl is the inaugural Ladies Players' Player of the Year sponsored
by Spire London East Hospital. Zoepfl has been one of the outstanding
performers in a landmark campaign for the Ladies, who have lifted two
trophies in recent weeks while going unbeaten in the whole of 2018 to date –
a run that has stretched for 13 games. American midfielder Zoepfl has been
in unstoppable form since linking up with the Hammers in November, netting
ten goals in 13 games and playing a key role in the success of Karen Ray's
side. Zoepfl was one of a number of contenders for this award, with the
likes of defender Hannah Wheeler and striker Kelly Wealthall pushing her
hard for the prize. "It feels really really good to win this award, but I
wouldn't be anywhere without my teammates," she said modestly.
"With the change of coaching, we've changed the attitude among the players
and it has been amazing. We've won two trophies and winning is fun so it's
been a really fun season. "We don't want the season to end! We're just
getting into our groove and if we had been like this at the start of the
season we would have probably been at the top of the table. This has been my
first season at the Club and I appreciate everything that has been done for
me. The players and coaching staff give me the confidence to play how I've
been playing."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Obiang collects Goal of the Season prize for Wembley scorcher
WHUFC.com

Pedro Obiang's outstanding strike at Tottenham Hotspur has won the Club's
2017/18 Goal of the Season award, sponsored by Mulalley & Co. The Spaniard's
scorcher at Wembley Stadium was the winner of the whufc.com fan vote,
polling 59 percent, ahead of Chicharito's individual strike at Brighton &
Hove Albion in second. Marko Arnautovic's volley in the home 3-0 victory
over Southampton was in third place. Obiang's goal was one that will live
long in the memory of Hammers fans, as he picked up possession midway inside
the Spurs half with seemingly little on. He looked for a pass, but instead
spied an opportunity to shoot from 30 yards, taking the chance with real
aplomb as his right-footed rocket flew past Hugo Lloris and rifled into the
top left-hand corner. "For me it was something different because every day
in training I try to shoot differently towards the far post, but this time I
went for the near post and it went in!" he smiled. "It was really nice and a
really emotional goal, especially because it was at Wembley too!"

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arnautovic wins Signing of the Season
WHUFC.com

Marko Arnautovic has capped a fine debut campaign in Claret and Blue by
being named the 2017/18 Signing of the Season sponsored by Lycamobile. The
29-year-old forward, who has scored ten goals and laid on a further four
more in his first 31 appearances as a Hammer, beat off competiton from
Chicharito and Pablo Zabaleta to lift the award. Arnautovic was a clear
winner of the whufc.com fan poll, taking 74 per cent of the vote, and he was
thrilled to pick up the first trophy of the evening. The No7 joins the likes
of Edimilson Fernandes, Dimitri Payet and Adrian in winning this award in
recent years. Stay right here to find out all the award winners from the
2018 Player Awards brought to you by Betway in aid of the Academy.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Declan Rice retains Young Hammer of the Year prize
WHUFC.com

Declan Rice has won the Young Hammer of the Year sponsored by Eurostat
Office Supplies for the second season in a row. Nineteen-year-old Rice has
made his mark in a terrific campaign after debuting on the final day of
2016/17, building on that by appearing in the Premier League a further 22
times so far this term.
The versatile youngster recently made his senior Republic of Ireland debut,
winning the Man of the Match award to cap a remarkable campaign which has
seen him perform admirably at centre-half and in midfield. After stepping
off the bench in the season opener at Manchester United, Rice has gone from
strength-to-strength, playing some part in all but one of the Hammers'
top-flight games in 2018 and earning praise from his fellow players and fans
alike. "There were other great candidates who have had great years, so I'm
very grateful that I've done enough to win this award for a second straight
year," he said. "It's been a great year and I can't wait to end it strongly.
"It's been an amazing year. I was picking up this award last year and I was
talking about loan options, but now I've made 30-odd appearances, have had
some praise from some top, top people and I'm loving every minute of it and
I can't wait to play more games and win more trophies in the future."

Rice has played in huge games this season, including the 3-2 EFL Cup win
over Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley and the recent 1-1 Premier League draw at
his boyhood club Chelsea, but it was another match which he picked as his
standout moment of 2017/18 so far. "It was the game against Southampton
which we won 3-0. There was so much pressure in that game, as we'd come back
after three weeks and we won 3-0. "For the manager to put me in and trust me
and for us to get a clean sheet and win, that was my proudest and best
moment of the season."

Rice expressed his gratitude for the support and mentoring he has received
this standout season, from his old Academy coaches, the first-team staff and
teammates alike. "You've only got to go into the Academy to see how much
work is going. There are so many top people there working and they are
bringing top players through and the U23s are beating Manchester City and
Manchester United, which shows how well we're doing. "Credit to Terry
Westley and his staff – Liam Manning, Steve Potts and Mark Phillips – for
giving players their opportunities and making them better. A massive thank
you to all them for getting me to this point. "All of my teammates have been
there for me. I've been lucky to come through with this group of lads, who
have all been in my position, the likes of Joe Hart and Marko Arnautovic,
who are like older brothers to me, and Nobes, Ginge and Andy Carroll.
"That's the thing about this squad. We're all so close that anyone can go to
anyone and it's great to be part of this squad."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Conor Coventry wins Dylan Tombides Award
WHUFC.com

Eighteen-year-old midfielder Conor Coventry is the winner of the 2017/18
Dylan Tombides Award sponsored by Blue Cube Security, recognising an
outstanding season for the youngster with the Academy. Coventry, who has
been capped by the Republic of Ireland up to U19 level, has featured
regularly for the Premier League 2 side this season, playing ten games as
Terry Westley's side achieved a top half finish in their first season back
at the top tier of U23 football. With four EFL Trophy and four U18 Premier
League appearances also under his belt, Coventry has made great strides over
the past twelve months, beating fellow nominees Ben Johnson, Ajibola Alese
and Domingos Quina to lift the prize. Named in memory of the sadly departed
Dylan Tombides, this award recognises the Academy Player of the Year and
after collecting the trophy Coventry could not hide his delight. "Dylan left
a great legacy at the Club, to so win the award named after him is a great
feeling," he said. "I'm really proud. "It's been a big season for me -
appearing against senior teams in the Checkatrade Trophy, and going to both
Man City and Man United away in PL2 and winning was great. I'd pick out the
United game as the highlight, I played well that day and it was a great win.
"It was always a target to play PL2 this year, but I didn't expect to play
as much as I did. I'm very pleased with the season, it's been a success.
"Seeing Declan Rice play so many times for the first team this season is a
massive inspiration. It drives everyone to work harder and keep trying and
it just shows us we can get there."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arnautovic thanks 'every single fan' for Hammer of the Year award
WHUFC.com

Marko Arnautovic has thanked 'every single West Ham fan' after being crowned
Hammer of the Year for the first time. The Austrian attacker continued his
outstanding debut season in Claret and Blue by winning the supporters' vote
for their player of the season, which was announced at Wednesday's 2018
Player Awards, brought to you by Betway in aid of the Academy, at the
Intercontinental London – The O2. Speaking to West Ham TV amidst loud and
widespread acclaim from his teammates – Pablo Zabaleta thanked Arnautovic
for letting the players attend 'his party' – the No7 was quick to pay
tribute to tens of thousands of supporters who now sing his name every
matchday. "I want to thank every single fan who supports West Ham for this
award," he said, before telling his West Ham teammates to keep up their
cheering! "It means a lot to me. It was hard for me at the beginning of the
season but now it's going well and I want to do my job for many years to
come. We are not finished yet. "This award that I have received, I am very
happy and very proud. I want to keep doing my job for this Club because I
came here to do my job and everybody has seen what I can do and that I'm
very happy to be here and I want to keep doing it. "I try to do my best. The
gaffer gave me some advice which was to run hard and do my best and I did
it. All the players helped me. I love them and they love me – you can hear
this!"

Arnautovic has formed a close bond with the Claret and Blue Army following
his Club-record move from Stoke City last summer, overcoming a difficult
start to plunder ten Premier League goals and impress all with his
work-rate, commitment and passion for the cause. With four top-flight
matches left to play, starting with Sunday's visit of champions Manchester
City, the recently-turned 29-year-old is looking to repay the fans' support
with another important goal or two at London Stadium "The best moment so
far? Of course, every time I score a goal is a good moment for me, but to
receive these awards is the best moment so far for me. "I'll do my best in
the last four games, I'll give everything and then we're going to go on
holiday and come back and do better next season. "Thank you all for this and
I love you all!"

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers heroes to feature in Team Isla fundraising match
WHUFC.com

A host of Hammers favourites from years gone by will pull on their boots
again to raise funds for brave Isla Caton. Isla, from Hornchurch in Essex,
was diagnosed with a rare child cancer called Neuroblastoma – the same
disease which tragically took the life of heroic young Sunderland fan
Bradley Lowery last year – in March 2017. The three-year-old's family, who
are all lifelong West Ham United supporters, are trying to raise £400,000 to
take Isla to the United States for immunotherapy – which involves the
injection of an antibody therapy – not currently available in this country.
The next fundraising event will take place on Sunday 6 May at Redbridge FC
in the shape of a star-studded football match between Team Celebrity and
Team Isla.
Among those who have confirmed their participation are former West Ham
players Jack Collison, Paul Konchesky, Matty Etherington, Jimmy Walker,
Rufus Brevett, Kenny Brown and Marlon Harewood. They will be joined by West
Ham-supporting boxers Mark Little and Sammy McNess, snooker player Mark
King, The Apprentice star Sofiane Khelfa, comedian Neg Dupree and reality TV
star Jeff Brazier.

Tickets for the match, which will kick-off at 2pm at Oakside Stadium, are
priced at £10 for Adults, £5 for Children aged between two and 12 and free
for youngsters aged one and under. Family tickets for two Adults and two
Children are available for £26.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes: We're going to need the fans to make sure we get over the line
WHUFC.com

David Moyes says the support of a capacity London Stadium crowd will be
vital to West Ham United's chances of beating Manchester City. The Hammers
will go into Sunday's fixture with the Premier League champions as
outsiders, but manager Moyes believes the Claret and Blue Army can play a
big part in the Hammers upsetting the odds. Speaking at Wednesday's Player
Awards, brought to by Betway in aid of the Academy, the Scot encouraged West
Ham fans to recreate the atmosphere which inspired his team to a 3-0 home
victory over Southampton at the end of March.

"On the day against Southampton, I thought the supporters were right there
for us and supporters understand when they're really needed, and they
understood how much they were needed on that day, just like we're going to
need them in the next three home games," he told host Alvin Martin, his
staff, players and 600 guests at the Intercontinental London at the O2.
"We're going to need 60,000 people helping us to make sure we get over the
line and we get in the right place.
"I want my team to play much better in games and to continue to improve. We
had the disappointing day against Burnley, when it affected the players, so
to play as well as we did against Southampton, it showed what it meant to
them and we bounced right back. "We had a brilliant first half and I think
that day was a really important day, not only for the players but also for
the Club as well. From that, the players have grown as well, with more
confidence and more self-belief. We're playing well at the moment and
hopefully they continue to do that."

As a former Celtic player and Everton and Manchester United manager, Moyes
has plenty of experience of working in high-pressure environments with
demanding supporters. The boss, who turned 55 on Wednesday, is relishing
those surroundings as well in east London and is hoping the passion shines
through again on Sunday afternoon. "I draw comparisons to Glasgow, as
Glasgow is probably similar to the East End of London in many ways, as
supporters are tough, rough, know exactly what they want and let you know
when it's not going well. "When you've been in cities like Glasgow and
Liverpool and at passionate football clubs, coming to West Ham, you know
exactly what you're getting. "When you used to come to Upton Park, you knew
exactly what you were getting over the years and I don't think that's
changed."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The men who put West Ham United on the map
WHUFC.com

Saturday 26 April 1958 remains a pivotal date in the history of West Ham
United.

Playing 250 miles away at Middlesbrough, in the final match of the season,
goals from John Dick, Vic Keeble and Malcolm Musgrove sealed a 3-1 victory
for Ted Fenton's team.

More importantly, the two points secured the old Second Division title for
the Hammers and promotion back to the top tier of English football after 26
years.

Over 1,000 jubilant Hammers fans were packed on the platform at Kings Cross
station to welcome captain Noel Cantwell and his team-mates as they stepped
off their train as champions.

For Cantwell and his close friend Malcolm Allison, it was a long-awaited
reward for their creative and modern approach, cooked up at Cassetari's Café
on Barking Road – the origins of the famed 'Academy'.

The goals for Dick and Keeble made it 50 in total from the prolific strike
partnership. What made their tally even remarkable was the fact that neither
had scored a league goal between them until late October!

In fact, back-up striker Billy Dare had initially been the main man in front
of goal, scoring ten goals in the first ten games – five of which ended in
defeat

Once Dick and Keeble clicked, however, so did the team. With the steady
hands of Ernie Gregory between the sticks, a formidable back line of John
Bond, Ken Brown and Cantwell ably supported by the tigerish Andy Malcolm
ahead of them, and the likes of Mike Grice, John Smith and Malcolm Musgrove
pulling the strings in attacking areas, the preparation of the last few
years finally paid off.

Fenton's men lost just three more matches during the remainder of the
season, broke the Club record for its biggest victory with an 8-0 thrashing
of Rotherham United in March, and finished the campaign having netted 101
goals.

Long-serving chairman Reg Pratt said at the time: "This is, indeed, a
wonderful moment for us. It is said that if you want something badly enough
you'll get it in the end. We have waited for this occasion for a very long
time, and now regard our present success not so much as an end but as a new
beginning, a challenge, a spur to greater efforts."

Those celebratory words could not have been more prophetic, as the Club went
on to enjoy their golden period of the mid 1960s, culminating in three
homegrown players leading England to the greatest triumph in world football.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
KHAN'S ANTI-WEST HAM VENDETTA?
By Blind Hammer 26 Apr 2018 at 08:00
WTID

Blind hammer investigates possible motivations underlying mayoral hostility
towards West HAM.

I voted for Sadiq khan. I support many of his initiatives. I am a lifelong
Labour voter. I have no political agenda feeding my criticisms here. I am
nevertheless saddened by his apparent hostility towards West ham and its
supporters.

Let us review the basics. In the process of allocating first virtual
ownership and then, once this collapsed, tenancy of the London Stadium, West
Ham had to win, in a competitive process, not once but twice. At no stage,
despite the most snide of allusions from the Mayoral office has anybody
established that West Ham did anything wrong. Instead the club are lambasted
for negotiating what is cynically described as "a good deal". What is
unspoken but constantly insinuated, is that the deal is not just good but
unfair. It is suggested that West Ham somehow pulled the wool over the eyes
of poor naïve and deluded LLDC negotiators. Dark villains of skilful West
Ham lawyers duped the Government representatives into an unfeasible Business
Plan. This cheating negotiating strategy, robbing the tax payer, needs
redressing.

The problem is that this bizarre description has no basis in reality.
Instead it exists purely to support a political agenda. The description of
West Ham as skilled City Slick financial negotiators able to out manoeuvre
the cream of government Lawyers will baffle most. Whilst arguably some
incompetence may be attributed to government representatives, the depiction
of smart brained West Ham operators is less convincing. Remember this is a
club which has failed to negotiate basic football transfers with clubs like
Sporting Lisbon.

Khan Seemed disappointed after his investment into the Moore-Stephens
inquiry. The report did not deliver expected condemnation. What is striking
is the lack of fit between Moore-Stephens and the Mayoral response. At no
time did Moore-Stephen attribute any blame to West Ham. He does however
criticise LLDC negotiators for not achieving a better deal. This point is
mute. There is no evidence given the competitive process that any better
deal was available. Moore-Stephens unconvincingly argues that a "no deal"
could have pressured better terms. In reality a "No deal" approach would
have placed more pressure on the State and legacy ambitions than West Ham.

What is inescapable and foremost in Moore-Stephens is his focus on the
budgetary pressures and long term infeasibility of hosting Athletics. A
solution must be found to the crippling need to annually relocate seating.
The failure to deliver income from naming rights also figure but
overwhelmingly budgetary pressures will not be relieved until a political
nettle is grasped to resolve the accommodation of Athletics.

It is little short of astonishing then that the mayoral response to
Moore-Stephens does not highlight this dysfunctional Athletics Business
Structure. Instead it focusses overwhelmingly on the deal with West Ham. It
is hard to conclude that this is driven by anything but cynical political
posturing.

The problem is that it is not just West Ham but UK Athletics who have rights
in the Stadium. Any breach will result in compensation. The political as
well as financial fall out from this failure would be considerable. The
responsibility for breakdown would lay unequivocally with those who
originally envisioned the shared use Model. The "National Athletics Legacy"
would lie in ruins. The politically uncomfortable consequence is that West
Ham would emerge as the major benefactor. It would be politically most
expedient then if blame and consequent financial accountability could be
somehow deflected to West Ham.

It appears then that Khan's has decided his best strategy is to scapegoat
West Ham. If he can achieve this he may shift at least some of the
responsibility for this collapse. If the Stadium has no future as a vehicle
for an Athletics Legacy then someone else should pay. He may want to force
West Ham to assume responsibility by re-locating the duty to compensate from
the State to them. Such a strategy is only viable if he can sustain a view
that West Ham, and not the State planners, are the real villains.

Such an approach seems to explain the constant negativity and obfuscation
which has characterised Khan's direct dealings. Correspondence released by
Freedom of Information request show Karen Brady pleading with Khan to meet
positively and plan together a future for the Stadium. Repeatedly Khan
Rejects these overtures by claiming his diary is full or referring issues to
junior Managers. He did not agree to meet West Ham until this year. Despite
showing an extraordinary reluctance to talk directly, he has in contrast,
hurled himself onto any negative available public bandwagon to criticise
West Ham and/or its supporters.

Objectively this campaign of hostility is puzzling. West Ham is the only
Stadium partners which significantly provide income for the Business Model.
They are the only partners which have offered any extra infrastructyural
investment. The response of E20 and the LLDC has been to block any positive
development of the Stadium, whether this relates to maximising capacity,
installing pitch surrounds, or making ridiculous demands for payments to
facilitate concourse TV. They are determined to negatively "work to rule" in
an attempt to force a renegotiation. Rather than working with West Ham to
deliver Stadium legacy potentials they seem determined to create a series of
increasingly desperate bickering legal disputes. These will come to Court
later in the year. In contrast UK Athletics are seen as pristine with no
responsibility for current Stadium difficulties. This approach does not help
anybody, least of all, in delivering the Olympic Legacy.

The shared Use Athletics model is now widely seen as disastrous.
Disentangling this will be complicated. Yet the attempt to vilify West Ham
for this failure of vision smacks of desperate measure by the increasingly
desperate. Some are frantic to avoid political accountability for this
debacle. Yet whipping up hostility to a football club and its supporters has
risks.

Football is tribal. Unfortunately rivalries, especially amongst London clubs
can easily develop into levels of hatred and violence. Hatred of opposition
supporters, though objectively illogical, can result in not just mayhem and
disorder but serious physical harm. West Ham and its supporters may be one
of the few remaining minorities against which it may be legal/conceivable to
raise a hostile negative prejudice. The whipping up of this antagonistic
narrative in the hope of achieving a longer term political objective is
particularly unsavoury. Yet khan must know that to indulge in this game has
risks. A vendetta which supports a campaign of vindictiveness could provide
validation for those football rivals with hatred and violence in their
hearts. These opposition rivals could grasp any justification for their
assaults. If the anti-West Ham campaign spills over into a return to the
lethal viciousness which has marred our game in the past all those presently
playing political games will have to look to their consciences. I
desperately hope that Khan adjusts his approach, and even at this stage
repudiates the torrent of anti-West ham briefings. He should instead agree
to work positively with the club. Whether this all descends into court
battles later this year or even worse physical battles from opposition fans
will provide a litmus test.

David Griffith

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Revealed: The big-money bonus David Moyes could receive if West Ham avoid
relegation
The Hammers are on the path to survival and the manager is going to be
rewarded in kind
By Sam Inkersole
West Ham Correspondent
07:46, 26 APR 2018

David Moyes is in line for a decent wedge of cash dropping in to his bank
account if he keeps West Ham in the Premier League this season, according to
West Ham news site Claret & Hugh. Moyes is seemingly steering the club to
safety despite the 4-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday afternoon as Moyes' side
sit six points clear of the drop zone with just four games of the season to
go. The Scotsman was employed back in November to replace Slaven Bilic on
an apparent £15,000 a week deal until the end of this season with the sole
purpose of keeping the club in the Premier League. It's been known that the
57-year-old would be in line to get some sort of bonus at the end of this
season if top-flight status was preserved and now, C&H claim they know the
figures.
The Hammers boss could be set to pocket anywhere between £1.25m and £2.1m
should West Ham remain a Premier League team next season. The lower figure
will be paid if the Hammers finish in 17th, one spot out of the drop zone,
and scaled up to a maximum of the high figure for any further positions
gained in the table between now and the end of the season. Survival will
also trigger new contract negotiations between West Ham and Moyes, with the
club seemingly happy with his displays as boss so far and the discipline he
has instilled in the squad as they inch slowly towards survival. Moyes could
be in line for a contract of £200,000-£250,000 a month to remain in charge
at the London Stadium. if he decides to carry on in east London for the near
future. The manager has insisted near enough every week that negotiations
over any possible new deal would not take place until West Ham's place in th
Premier League for next season is absolutely assured.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Manchester United youngster drops massive hint about wanting West Ham
return
The midfielder stayed at Upton Park between 2012 and 2015 before moving on
to pastures
Football London
Sam Ikersole

Former West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison has dropped a hint on Instagram he
fancies a return to West Ham, more than three years after leaving the club
having made just 18 appearances. The 25-year-old midfielder is currently
plying his trade with Mexican Liga MX side Atlas Guadalajara, where has
scored three times in 18 appearances since signing on loan from Lazio.
Morrison arrived at West Ham in 2012 but after a series of loans away,
departed the club having been brought to east London by Sam Allardyce as it
didn't pan out quite how either party wanted, eventually leaving permanently
in 2015. West Ham fans saw glimpses of what Morrison could offer and
displayed during his time at Manchester United, something that led to former
Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson saying Morrison was, supposedly telling former
West Ham defender Rio Ferdinand that Morrison was a "genius."
Now seemingly rebuilding his career in Mexico having had loan spells at
Cardiff City, QPR and Birmingham, Morrison might be keen on a switch back to
London if you believe what he has posted on Instagram. The midfielder posted
a video on his social media scoring an absolute peach of a chip in training
for Atlas and it led to cult Hammers hero Carlton Cole sending him a reply,
saying: "Bro time to come back to England."
Morrison saw Cole's reply and sent one back in kind, adding: "Bring me back
to West Ham you have the power."
Now, whether Morrison was messing around or was being serious, only he
knows. But, could you imagine if he did make his way back to east London?
You suspect Hammers fans would be delighted and want to see it happen.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Adrian wants exit if Moyes stays, mystery English club interested
HITC
Olly Dawes

West Ham United could lose goalkeeper Adrian this summer. According to The
Sun, West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian wants to leave the club this summer
if manager David Moyes stays beyond the end of the season. The Hammers still
aren't safe from relegation just yet, meaning David Moyes' future isn't
secure either, and most of the focus is on who West Ham could sign to boost
their squad this summer. However, some players will be leaving, such as
James Collins, and reports now suggest that another Hammers veteran is
eyeing the London Stadium exit door. The Sun report that West Ham goalkeeper
Adrian is keen to leave the club this summer if Moyes keeps his job, though
he does still have a year left on his contract. It's claimed that the
Spaniard isn't happy that he has been dropped for Joe Hart, and is even more
bemused that the England international has kept his place despite recent
errors. The report notes that Adrian is keen to stay in the Premier League
though, and one mystery club have already registered an interest in his
signature ahead of the summer transfer window. Adrian, 31, will be in goal
against Manchester City this weekend due to Hart's ineligibility, but that
could prove to be his final appearance in a West Ham shirt.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Bring me back'; Ravel Morrison pleads for West Ham return on Instagram
HITC
Danny Owen

Ravel Morrison was released by West Ham United back in 2015 and has not
played in the Premier League since. Now, Carlton Cole may be quite the cult
hero at West Ham but it seems a little unlikely that he would have the power
to open the doors for former players to return to the London Stadium. Though
that has not stopped the one and only Ravel Morrison from asking his former
Hammers team-mate to put in a good word on Instagram.
pic.twitter.com/OC75Nh6tzT

Morrison is perhaps one of the most infamous examples of wasted talent
English football has seen in the 21st century. He had the natural ability to
rival any other homegrown talent of his generation but moments like that
wonderfull solo goal against Tottenham Hotspur back in 2013 have been
distinctly few and far between.
With a string of problems following him around off the field, legendary
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson decided Morrison wasn't worth
the hassle. And nor, in the end, did his West Ham boss Sam Allardyce. "He
was the biggest waste of talent I ever worked with," Allardyce told Sky
Sports in 2017, as reported by the Manchester Evening News, two years after
Morrison was released by The Hammers.

Since then, the now 25-year-old has managed a grand total of four Serie A
appearances for Lazio and, rather bizarrely, finds himself on loan at
Mexican outfit Atlas. But it seems that eye for the spectacular has never
left him, posting a video of him scoring a glorious chip in training for the
Liga MX side on his Instagram page.
Though a West Ham return, even though Allardyce has gone, seems very
unlikely indeed - regardless of what Carlton Cole says.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian could be set to make his final appearance for West Ham United on
Sunday
HITC
John Verrall

West Ham United are due to take on Manchester City this weekend. Adrian
could be set to make his 142nd and last appearance for West Ham United, if
reports in The Sun about his desire to leave are true. Adrian will
reportedly depart West Ham if David Moyes stays in charge, which is looking
increasingly likely. The Spaniard's departure would end his five year stay
at the London club, but he could have a chance to say goodbye to the Hammers
fans this weekend. Adrian has lost his place in West Ham's goal to Joe Hart
this season, but the Manchester City loanee is ineligible this weekend. Due
to the terms in his loan, Hart is not allowed to keep goal for West Ham on
Sunday which could present Adrian with the chance to play at the London
Stadium for one final time.

Should West Ham let Adrian go?

Adrian has been a good servant of West Ham, but his departure cannot be seen
as a major blow. The 31-year-old is a solid stopper, but he is not of the
quality required to be a permanent starter for West Ham. And Moyes will
surely have a new goalkeeper near the very top of his transfer wishlist this
summer.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Olympic Stadium overlooked for World Cup dates
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

The Olympic Stadium will NOT be used as one of the 11 venues to stage
matches in next summer's Cricket World Cup, it has been confirmed. Despite
lengthy negotiations in recent weeks and months during which the Stratford
arena was mooted as a possible venue, it was announced today that the
stadium will not be used by the England & Wales Cricket Board from May to
June 2019. The stadium, which enjoyed a capacity of 80,000 for 2012 Games
can comfortably seat more than twice as many spectators as the largest
stadium chosen - Lords, which has a capacity of some 30,000 - but has been
overlooked for unknown reasons.

The possibility of its use had initially been raised by the International
Cricket Council, who are said to have been encouraged by the use of large
stadiums in Australia and New Zealand at the last tournament in 2015. As a
result, the Final will be hosted at Lords on 14 July. The 11 venues selected
to host the ten-team World Cup by the E&WCB are as follows: Bristol;
Cardiff; Chester-le-Street; Edgbaston; Headingley; Lord's; Old Trafford; The
Oval; Taunton; Trent Bridge and Southampton.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arnie claims Hammer of the Year gong
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

Marko Arnautovic has been named Hammer of the Year - in his first full
season at the club. The Austrian international scooped the main award at
last night's lavish Player Awards Ceremony - as well as the Signing of the
Season and Players Player of the Season awards.
Meanwhile Declan Rice wan named as Young Player of the Year, Pedro Obiang
took Goal of the Season (so far) for his outstanding effort against
Tottenham and Conor Coventry took the Dylan Tombides Award.

* Keep an eye on Knees up Mother Brown for the 21st Annual KUMB.com Awards
voting form, which will be available from early May. Categories this season
are as follows:

- Player of the Year (held by Manuel Lanzini)
- Young Player of the Year (held by Edimilson Fernandes)
- Goal of the Season (held by Andy Carroll v Crystal Palace)
- Most Memorable Match (1-0 vs Tottenham)
- Best Signing (held by Edimilson Fernandes)
- Most Improved Player (held by Pedro Obiang)

- Most Missed (held by Dimitri Payet)
- Worst Player (held by Gokhan Tore)
- Worst Signing (held by Simone Zaza)
- Greatest Disappoitnment (leaving the Boleyn Ground)
- Hackett of the Year (held by Dimitri Payet)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Snodgrass nominated as Championship Player of the Year
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

Robert Snodgrass has been nominated by Match of the Day Magazine for
Championship Player of the Year. The 31-year-old - on whom a £12million
price tag has been set by West Ham - has enjoyed a successful season in the
Championship with Villa, who are closing in on a place in the Football
League play-offs and are keen to retain his services. And he is currently
running second in a five-man poll to find the league's best player of
2017/18 behind Wolves' Ruben Neves, who leads the pack with 43% of the votes
at time of writing (considerably ahead of Snodgrass with 19%).
Meanwhile the Scottish international has hinted that he could be set to stay
at Aston Villa - following a tweet to the club's new kit designer. A
reasonably-innocuous tweet from Snodgrass to designer Luke Roper (of Luke
1977) has excited fans of the Birmingham-based club who are keen to see him
stay at Villa Park - whether that be in a Premier League or Championship
side next season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fans' support breeds confidence, claims Moyes
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

David Moyes has once again called upon the West Ham United fan base to steer
the team towards Premier League survival. Last weekend's defeat at Arsenal
left the Hammers 15th in the Premier League and six points clear of the drop
zone, with four matches of the season left to play. However the interim
manager was taking no chances and called upon "60,000 people" to help steer
the club to safety. "Against Southampton the supporters were right there for
us," Moyes said during last night's speech at the Player Awards. "We had
the disappointing day against Burnley, when it affected the players, so to
play as well as we did against Southampton showed what it meant to them and
we bounced right back. "From that, the players have grown with more
confidence and more self-belief. We're playing well at the moment and
hopefully they continue to do that. I want my team to play much better in
games and to continue to improve. "Supporters understand when they're
really needed, and they understood how much they were needed on that day,
just like we're going to need them in the next three home games. "We're
going to need 60,000 people helping us to make sure we get over the line and
we get in the right place."
However Moyes left some fans scratching their heads when he claimed the
Olympic Stadium was comparable to the Boleyn Ground in terms of intimacy and
atmosphere. "Coming to West Ham, you know exactly what you're getting," he
said. "When you used to come to Upton Park, you knew exactly what you were
getting over the years - and I don't think that's changed."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 26th April 2018

'Wonderful' Ken Brown set to receive Lifetime Achievement Award
WHUFC.com

"A pillar of the side at centre-half, a stopper who never gave in and a
brilliant header of the ball. He had the most wonderful personality – he was
a pleasing, friendly man who was always smiling, and I knew I could count on
him."

So said legendary West Ham United manager Ron Greenwood when referring to
Ken Brown in his autobiography, Yours Sincerely. In a record-breaking era
that saw the likes of Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, Ronnie Boyce,
Johnny Byrne and John Bond star in the Claret and Blue, that is quite a
compliment.
Yet it is nothing less than fully deserved by a man who will forever hold
the unique honour of being the only Hammer to have played in the 1957/58
Second Division title-winning campaign, the 1964 FA Cup final victory and
the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup triumph – the three momentous
achievements that put West Ham United on the map and earned the Club global
recognition during that golden period.
Born on 16 February 1934, just around the corner from the Boleyn Ground in
Forest Gate, Ken was playing amateur football for local Dagenham side
Neville United when Hammers boss Ted Fenton signed him on professional forms
at the age of 17 in October 1951. National Service slowed his early progress
but Ken was handed a senior debut a week after his 19th birthday in February
1953, in a 1-1 draw at Rotherham United, and made a handful of appearances
during the next three seasons before establishing himself as the Club's
first-choice centre-half in the memorable 1957/58 campaign. The record books
show that Ken played in 41 of the 42 Second Division games as Fenton's team,
led by the goalscoring power of John Dick and Vic Keeble, surged to the
title and brought top-flight league football back to Upton Park for the
first time in 26 years.
Just months later, Brown lined up in a First Division match against
Manchester United alongside a 17-year-old Bobby Moore – marking the start of
a defensive partnership that would become the rock upon which the Club's
success of the 1960s was built. Winner of the Hammer of the Year award at
the end of that 1958/59 season, Brown won a solitary full England cap in a
2-1 win over Northern Ireland in November 1959, but the best was still to
come as the dawn of a new decade and the arrival of Ron Greenwood saw him
establish the connection with Moore that led to the double Wembley triumph
in 1964 and 1965.
In May 1967, after making his 474th and final senior appearance for the
Hammers a few months earlier, he was awarded a Testimonial – in which a
newly-signed Billy Bonds made his first appearance – before joining old
friend John Bond at Torquay United in a £4,000 deal. After hanging up his
boots in 1970 following a spell with Hereford United, he began a long and
successful coaching and managerial career that saw him assist Bond at
Bournemouth and Norwich, before taking charge at Carrow Road and leading the
Canaries to a League Cup success in 1985 and promotion to the top flight a
year later. The Brown association at West Ham continued in the early 1990s
when Ken's son Kenny signed from Plymouth Argyle and became a firm
favourite, following in his Dad's footsteps by enjoying a promotion-winning
campaign in 1992/93.

This evening, Ken becomes the sixth Hammer to be honoured with the Lifetime
Achievement Award, following in the footsteps of his former team-mates Bobby
Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters, and Sir Trevor Brooking and Billy
Bonds.

*You can follow live coverage of the 2017/18 Player Awards, brought to you
by Betway in aid of the Academy, on whufc.com and across the Club's social
media channels this evening.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joao Mario: Sunday is a chance to show our quality
WHUFC.com

Joao Mario is looking forward to testing himself against the best on Sunday,
when West Ham United welcome champions Manchester City to London Stadium.
Pep Guardiola's men sealed the Premier League title a couple of weeks back,
following an astonishing season which has seen them amass 90 points from 34
games to date. The task facing the Hammers on Sunday is undoubtedly a tough
one, but Mario believes the team he joined on loan from Inter Milan in
January can go one better than the narrow 2-1 loss they suffered in
Manchester earlier this season. "We're up against a hard team on Sunday and
it is not going to be an easy game, but we're at home and we're going to
try, with our fans behind us, [to get a result]," the Euro 2016 winner said.
"Everyone enjoys watching the way Manchester City play. They have amazing
football players and they are an incredible team. "This is when you can show
your quality, playing against big teams. We will try to find the space and
do our best."

Mario has made a positive impact during his temporary stay in E20, showing
the qualities which have earned him 33 Portugal caps, and he wants to do his
bit to help the Hammers make sure of their top flight status as soon as
possible. "I'm really enjoying my time here," the No18 added. "The team is
improving a lot, and playing in the Premier League is amazing for me. I
think it's the best championship in the world, so I'm really happy to be
here. "Playing in the Premier League was a goal for me, so I'll keep going
but the most important thing is guaranteeing our safety."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pearce backs West Ham rookie Rice to 'spring back' from Arsenal
disappointment
WHUFC.com

Stuart Pearce has backed Declan Rice to bounce back from the disappointment
the youngster felt after Sunday's Premier League defeat at Arsenal. Showing
the maturity which has already served him so well in his short senior
career, Rice has vowed to learn from the mistake he made in allowing Aaron
Ramsey's cross to pass into the net for the Gunners' second goal at the
Emirates Stadium. First-team manager's assistant Pearce welcomed Rice's
reaction and, on the day the Hammer of the Year will be crowned at the
2017/18 Player Awards brought to you by Betway in aid of the Academy,
suggested the Irish teenager had been one of West Ham United's true standout
performers during a challenging season.
"It's one of those where you have to be supportive to young players, but
it's also one of those where you have to grow up very quickly because, if
you're given a shirt in the Premier League, you're expected to do a man's
job, even if it says you're a very young man above the door," said Pearce,
who celebrated his 56th birthday on Tuesday. "Moments like that, the
relevance to me is how you spring back from it and how you learn from it. "I
hark back to my career and in my second or third game at the start of my
professional career [with Coventry City against Luton Town in 1983], I
scored an own-goal and all of a sudden I thought 'Wowee', but it was about
how I learned from it and making sure that same mistake doesn't happen
again. "When that ball flashes across our box again, Dec will be looking to
put his head and feet on everything and that's the beauty of it. In general,
his matchplay was very good and has been over the last month and a half, so
he has to keep building on that and learning from mistakes. "We face
Manchester City on Sunday and we will be tested because we're playing
against an outstanding side in this division, but that's the level you've
got to attain to. There's no point setting your standards much, much lower –
you've got to attain to the best team in the league and try to match them
equivalently."

Having backed Pearce also looked ahead to Wednesday's Player Awards, which
will be attended by the first-team squad and hundreds of supporters at the
InterContinental London – The O2. The former defender was crowned Hammer of
the Year himself in 2000/01, when he totalled 42 appearances at the age of
38 to lead West Ham to Premier League safety. "I was just warming up! Nobody
told me couldn't play 40-odd games a season in those days. These days, they
tell you that you need to rest, but I broke the mould a little bit! "I had
two fantastic seasons at this Club and got back in the England side as a
37-year-old. I then broke my shin bone and thought that was the end of my
playing career, but I came back the second season and it was fantastic to be
on the pitch alongside some really talented players in Paolo Di Canio, Rio
Ferdinand, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole and Frank Lampard."

And whoever wins this year, Pearce says that player should be proud of his
achievement. "Over the course of a season, you can't turn around and say
there haven't been some big plusses. Certainly Marko [Arnautovic] has done
well, scoring goals, particularly since the new manager has come through the
door. "Declan has staked a claim at being a first-team player, so there have
been some real solid performances through the group. It's right and proper
we celebrate that and how well the players have done. "It's like everything,
if you don't think you've done well enough this season when everything pans
out, well, learn by it and improve next year."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Top ten a pipe dream under current regime?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's record under the club's current administration is the
worst in the Premier League era. Since the old Division One disappeared in
1992, following the formation of the Premier League in a breakaway from the
Football League, West Ham have had three majority owners - Terry Brown
(1992-2006), Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson/Straumur (2006-2010) and David Sullivan
& David Gold (since 2010). And whilst teams on the much-maligned Brown's
watch averaged a 14th-place finish, and under the Icelandics'
far-shorter-lived reign an even more impressive 11th, performances under the
Sullivan/Gold banner have resulted in an average finish of just 15th - the
lowest of all three majority owners.

The shy Brown, who was eventually hounded out of the club following a storm
of protests and negative publicity in the first half of the noughties saw
the club achieve seven top ten finishes on his watch (14 seasons in total),
including United's second-highest top-flight finish of 5th under Harry
Redknapp in 1998/99.

And whilst West Ham also finished in the top half of the table twice in the
Icelandics three seasons (under Alan Curbishley and Gianfranco Zola), they
have managed it just once since Sullivan and Gold arrived at the club eight
years ago - in the final, emotional season at The Boleyn Ground (Slaven
Bilic).

In terms of Cup competitions, the Brown era resulted in the club reaching
five quarter finals and one final (the 2006 FA Cup Final) whilst there was
just the one quarter final during Gudmundsson's three-year tenure.

However since Sullivan and Gold arrived at the club there have been four
quarter final appearances and two semi finals - both in the League Cup -
although two were in the duo's first season (an FA Cup quarter final and a
League Cup semi) under Avram Grant, which also resulted in relegation to the
Championship.

Brown & Cearns

Seasons: 2nd* (92/93); 13th (93/94); 14th (94/95); 10th (95/96); 14th
(96/97); 8th (97/98); 5th (98/99); 9th (99/00); 15th (00/01); 7th (01/02);
18th (02/03); 4th* (03/04); 6th* (04/05); 9th (05/06)

Average position: 14th
Top ten finishes: 7/14 (50%)
Relegations: 1 (2002/03)

Gudmundsson & Magnusson

Seasons: 15th (06/07); 10th (07/08); 9th (08/09)

Average position: 11th
Top ten finishes: 2/3 (67%)
Relegations: 0

Sullivan & Gold

Seasons: 17th (09/10); 20th (10/11); 3rd* (11/12); 10th (12/13); 13th
(13/14); 12th (14/15); 7th (15/16); 11th (16/17); 15th (17/18)

Average position: 15th
Top ten finishes: 1/9 (11%)
Relegations: 1 (2010/11)

* Denotes a season in the Championship (second tier)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes statistically West Ham's worst
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th April 2018
By: Staff Writer

David Moyes is statistically West Ham United's worst-ever full-time manager.

The current managerial incumbent, who took over from Slaven Bilic last
November has achieved a win ratio of just 23.53% since succeeding the Croat,
who himself departed after two-and-a-half years in the role with a ratio of
38.3%.

Moyes, who has currently overseen 27 matches, had led the Hammers to just
seven wins during that time - against Chelsea, Stoke, West Brom,
Huddersfield, Watford, Southampton and Shrewsbury (FA Cup replay). Of those
seven victories, only one came against a team in the upper half of the
Premier League.

Of West Ham's 'top-flight only' managers, Alan Curbishley tops the pile with
a score of 39.44% - close followed by Bilic. However club legend Billy Bonds
still holds the overall highest score with a win ratio of 43.61% - although
his four years in charge included two in the old Second Division plus a
relegation inbetween.

All managerial win records

1. Billy Bonds (1990-94) 43.61%
2. Charlie Paynter (1932-50) 41.25%
3. Alan Pardew (2003-06) 41.10%
4. John Lyall (1974-89) 40.00%
5. Ted Fenton (1950-61) 39.88%
6. Alan Curbishley (2006-08) 39.44%
7. Syd King (1902-32) 38.87%
8. Slaven Bilic (2015-17) 38.30%
9. Sam Allardyce (2011-15) 37.57%
10. Harry Redknapp (1994-01) 37.00%

11. Lou Macari (1989-90) 35.90%
12. Ron Greenwood (1961-74) 35.87%
13. Avram Grant (2010-11) 31.91%
14. Glenn Roeder (2001-03) 30.49%
15. Franco Zola (2008-10) 28.75%
16. David Moyes (2017-) 23.53%


Top flight-only win records

1. Alan Curbishley (2006-08) 39.44%
2. Slaven Bilic (2015-17) 38.30%
3. Harry Redknapp (1994-01) 37.00%
4. Ron Greenwood (1961-74) 35.87%
5. Avram Grant (2010-11) 31.91%
6. Franco Zola (2008-10) 28.75%
7. David Moyes (2017-) 23.53%

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to offer new contract to Declan Rice
By Sky Sports News
Last Updated: 25/04/18 12:21pm
SSN

West Ham are poised to offer defender Declan Rice a new long-term contract,
according to Sky sources. The new deal intends to recognise the development
made by the 19-year-old centre-back in the past year, which has seen him
become a regular in the first-team squad. Rice has one year remaining on his
current contract at the London Stadium, although West Ham have the option to
extend the existing deal by a further year. He has featured 27 times for the
Hammers so far this season and made his international debut for the Republic
of Ireland in March. Rice had previously made his first-team debut for West
Ham on the final day of the 2016/17 Premier League season, coming on as an
89th-minute substitute in the 2-1 win at Burnley. He was named West Ham's
young player of the year for 2017 after captaining the club's U23 side to
promotion to the Premier League 2.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
RICE IS A QUICK LEARNER AND AN 'OBSCENE EFFORT' IS REQUIRED AGAINST MAN
CITY!
By S J Chandos 25 Apr 2018 at 08:00
WTID

Only West Ham United FC could lose a match so convincingly in the last eight
minutes! Seriously though, it does beggar belief the way in which we played
so well against Arsenal and were in line to win a vital away point, only to
blow it at that late stage. Yes, the team probably tired in the latter
stages and the nature of Arsenal's second goal was particularly galling, but
(as Arnautovic has subsequently said) we should have maintained our shape
and discipline even after that reverse. Instead we unravelled in a quite
worrying fashion.

Still, perhaps we should console ourselves with the thought that we did not
expect much at the Emirates and now just move on to the next match, versus
Man City, this coming Sunday. Only first, I think it needs stating that
overall we deserved the point at the Emirates, but that the same old
defensive mistakes (at the very death) cost us the result. Lets hope that we
can get firmly on top of those defensive lapses and they do not ultimately
prove our undoing in the run-in to this turbulent and frustrating season.
Incidentally, my view on the post-match Moyes-Rice controversy is that the
Manager was obviously too honest in his response to the media's questions.
He should have delivered a more diplomatic response and saved the frank
honesty for the dressing room. As it is, social media have jumped on it and
created a big fuss and that does no one any good in this present situation.
The truth of the matter is that Declan Rice is a youngster of great natural
ability and it is that which underpins his outstanding performances this
season. But as a 19 year old, he is (naturally) still short on that other
vital ingredient, experience. And it is experience that tells a player what
to do in a split second situation like that, if you have it, you react
automatically/instinctively and clear the danger. Rice does not have it yet,
got caught in two minds and unfortunately took the wrong course of action.
Ironically, costly as the mistake probably was, it will ultimately add to
Rice's experience and ensure that in future he will make the right decision
in similar situations.

The one thing I do know about Declan Rice is that he is a quick learner, he
has amply shown that this season, and this incident will probably be a key
lesson in his journey towards becoming a top class international defender.
His ability to learn from mistakes/situations and progress is what
distinguishes him from other promising players at the club who have not made
the same progress. I am a fan of Reece Oxford, but there is no doubt that
Rice has superseded him in the race to become a first team regular. And
perhaps that is why, it is about a positive attitude, learning lessons and
continually progressing your game. One player has, the other, hitherto, has
not to anything like the same degree!

Well, 'thank goodness for Ashley Barnes' of Burnley (as David Hautzig stated
in his recent match review). Indeed! That scrappy Clarets equaliser against
Stoke City could yet prove vital to the outcome of the relegation battle. It
is pretty much clear that if Stoke City lose to Liverpool this coming
weekend (as the form book says they should) then they are going to be
relegated. Southampton (as the club presently in 18th place) have shown a
consistent inability to win matches and if that trend continues then they
should occupy the third and final relegation place. Also in the relegation
mix are Huddersfield and Swansea and it is still possible that it could be
one of those two (rather than the Hammers) who fall through the trap door if
Saints somehow manage to save themselves at the 11th hour. But, lets not
rely on the deficiencies and negative results of others.The best possible
response is to win this weekend to (hopefully, if Bournemouth do the
business in the south coast derby) create a 9 points gap over Southampton.
If not, then we need at least a point from the Man City match and hope that
we can then complete the job up at Leicester City.

No one denies that beating Man City is a very tough task, in facing both the
best team in English football and the newly crowned PL champions. But we are
at home and if the history of West Ham United FC proves anything (for
example, see Fergie, Man Utd and an obscene effort!), it is that a highly
motivated team (playing above itself) can get a result against even the best
opposition. Hopefully, Man City will take their foot off the accelerator
(now the title is in the bag and they are out of the Champions League) and
the minds of all those multi-million pound City Stars will turn to keeping
fit for this summer's World Cup in Russia.

I know that is probably wishful thinking, but what the hell! After all,
stranger things have happened!

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham pursing Davie Selke, but face battle with Brighton
HITC
Olly Dawes

West Ham United are reportedly keen on Davie Selke. According to SportBILD,
West Ham United are interested in signing Hertha Berlin striker Davie Selke
– but face competition from Premier League rivals Brighton and Hove Albion.
Selke, 23, made his name with Werder Bremen, but made the surprise decision
to drop into the second tier with RB Leipzig after 10 goals in 33 games for
the Bundesliga side. The 6ft 3in striker failed to really impress with
Leipzig, scoring just 14 times in 53 games, before being sold on to Hertha
Berlin last summer in a move which has certainly paid off. Selke has scored
12 times in all competitions this season, an impressive tally given that he
has only started 20 games for Hertha, and his displays appear to be
attracting interest.
SportBILD report that West Ham United are keen to land Selke this summer,
but face a battle with Brighton and Hove Albion for his signature. The
Hammers may have added Jordan Hugill in January, but with no starts since
his deadline day move from Preston North End, it would be little surprise to
see them move for another striker. Brighton had great success in the German
market with the signing of Pascal Gross last summer, and could return for
Selke – though it would be a little bit of a surprise given that they signed
both Jurgen Locadia and Leonardo Ulloa in January.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reject chance to sign Joe Hart from Manchester City
Sean Kearns
Wednesday 25 Apr 2018 5:37 pm
Metro.co.uk

West Ham have decided against signing Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart
this summer, Metro.co.uk understands. The England stopper joined the Hammers
on a season-long loan last summer after West Ham agreed to pay half of his
£120,000-a-week wages. Hart spent the previous campaign with Serie A side
Torino but opted to move back to the Premier League to boost his chances of
earning a spot in England's World Cup squad this summer. However, Hart's
endured a difficult campaign in east London and has managed just 19
appearances in the league after David Moyes turned to Adrian following his
appointment at the London Stadium. Hart has made 19 league appearances for
the Hammers (Picture: Getty) Manchester City included an option to buy
agreement in their deal with West Ham but the Hammers have opted not to take
up the opportunity. Metro.co.uk understands the Hammers also plan on letting
Adrian leave the club and want a new No.1 to takeover in the summer. Ederson
is City's long-term no.1 (Picture: Getty) Hart signed a new five-year deal
with City in 2014 but he enters the final year of his contract this summer.
Pep Guardiola signed Claudio Bravo as Hart's replacement in 2016 and made
Ederson the most expensive goalkeeper of all time when the Brazilian signed
for £35m from Benfica last summer. Hart will speak with City this summer to
seek clarification over his summer and he's likely to be told to find a new
club.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com