Cresswell scoops KUMB award
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell has been named Player of the Year by readers of independent West Ham website KUMB.com. The 25-year-old full-back, who was recently crowned Hammer of the Year followed up that prestigious award with a double-scoop at the KUMB Awards.
In addition to being named Player of the Year Cresswell also picked up the Best Signing Award at the event, which was staged at The Cow in Westfield Stratford City, overlooking West Ham United's magnificent new home at the Olympic Stadium.
Ex-Hammer Jack Collison was also a double-winner on the night, picking up the Most Missed Award (for players who left the club within the last year) and the KUMB Podcast Guest of the Year award.
Elsewhere Reece Burke collected the Young Player of the Year award with a whopping 92 per cent of votes, whilst Enner Valencia won Goal of the Season for his wonderful effort at Hull City last September.
This season's Most Memorable Match was the 3-1 win over Liverpool last September, whilst the KUMB readers' Most Improved Player of 2014/15 was Stewart Downing.
The event featured special guests Jimmy Walker and Rufus Brevett, both of whom featured for West Ham during Alan Pardew's tenure in the mid-2000s.
The duo, who used to room together when Hammers teammates, kept the audience fully entertained throughout the evening with hilarious stories of their time together at the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Poyet makes winning start
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet's Uruguay kicked-off their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Serbia.
The West Ham United midfielder appeared as a 71st-minute substitute as La Albiceleste defeated their European opponents at the spectacular Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand.
Uruguay's goal was scored by Facundo Castro eleven minutes after half-time, with Poyet helping to ensure the 2013 runners-up made the perfect start to this year's finals.
In the other opening Group D fixture, Mali defeated Mexico 2-0.
Uruguay face the Mexicans at the same venue on Wednesday at 4pm local time (5am UK time) before completing their group-stage commitments by tackling Mali at the Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday 6 June at 4pm local time (5am UK time).
Elsewhere, Enner Valencia and Ecuador will step up their preparations for this month's Copa America finals in Chile by facing Panama in a pair of warm-up fixtures on Wednesday and Saturday respectively.
The first meeting will be held at the Estadio Rommel Fernández in Panama City, while the second will take place at the Estadio Reales Tamarindos in Portoviejo, Ecuador.
Ecuador kick-off their Copa America Group A challenge by facing host nation Chile in Santiago on Thursday 11 June, before tackling Bolivia in Valparaiso four days later and Mexico in Rancagua on Friday 19 June.
At age-group level, goalkeeper Sam Howes is in the England U18 squad for an international double-header with Russia at the Arena Khimki in Moscow on Monday 8 June and Wednesday 10 June.
Finally, James Collins will miss Wales' vital 2016 UEFA European Championship Group B qualifier with Belgium in Cardiff on Friday 12 June due to a calf injury.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parfitt-Williams signs new contract
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that highly rated Academy prospect Djair Parfitt-Williams has signed a professional contract at the Club.
The skilful forward has put pen to paper on a two-year deal, keeping him at West Ham until June 2017.
Speaking after committing his future to the Hammers, Parfitt-Williams, who was the U18's top goal scorer this season with nine strikes, said: "Ever since I was young I've always wanted to be a professional footballer, so it feels really good.
"It's nice to see my hard work recognised. I do a lot of extra training and I'm always watching football. For my hard work to come out on the pitch is excellent.
"I've known the contract was coming for a while, so it's nice to finally sign it. It felt kind of weird."
Parfitt-Williams' impressive performances culminated in his nomination for the prestigious Dylan Tombides Award at this year's Player Awards.
Speaking about being nominated, he said: "It was nice to be nominated for the award. I was unlucky not to win it but it's just nice to be recognised as one of the best players at the Academy.
"It's great to be top goal scorer. I've worked hard on my finishing which has paid off in my games."
Following the close of the regular Barclays U21 Premier League season, Parfitt-Williams played, and excelled, in the Hong Kong Soccer Sevens tournament scoring against Hong Kong Premier League champions Kitchee.
In a terrific campaign by the young Hammers, they were just pipped to the title by Spanish outfit Atletico Madrid, losing narrowly 3-2 in the final.
The impressive showing in Hong Kong follows further good news for the Academy after 18-year-old Reece Burke broke into the first team in the latter stages of the season.
Parfitt-Williams continued: "Reece breaking into the first team is great. It's a huge incentive for me and all the other players trying to break into the first team. It's made me hungrier to get there. I've been teammates with Reece since I came to West Ham as an U15.
"I pleased for him. There is a good atmosphere around the academy at the moment. This generation coming through at the Academy has a lot of talent and a few boys here have a real good chance of making it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Academy star sets eyes on first team
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 1st June 2015
By: Staff Writer
Djair Parfitt-Williams has signed a two-year professional contract with West Ham - and has his eye very much on the first team squad.
The 19-year-old forward, leading goalscorer for the U18s this season has put pen to paper on his first professional deal. However he hopes that is just the first step to becoming a first team regular.
Speaking to whufc.com, Parfitt-Williams admitted that his main ambition at present is to represent the club in the Premier League.
"It's got to be the first team," he said. "That's where I want to be. I've just got to keep pushing like how I've pushed to get into the Under 21s - and I know I can be there.
"Seeing Reece [Burke] in the first team has made me even more hungry to get there. We've been team mates since I first came in as an Under 15 so I'm happy for him.
"This generation, there's a lot of good young players coming through at the Academy. I think if we all apply ourselves then a few of the boys have a real chance."
Parfitt-Williams was recommended to West Ham by former Hammer Clyde Best, who spotted the promising striker starring for San Jose Earthquakes Academy.
He recently declared his intention to represent the United States at international level rather than Bermuda, his country of birth where he lived until the age of eight before moving to California.
Current Under 21s boss Steve Potts worked extensively with Parfitt-Williams during his time with the Under 18s and believes West Ham have another young star in the making. "His technical ability is fantastic," remarked the former central defender recently.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham discussing manager's job with Frank de Boer, Unai Emery, Slaven Bilic and Marcelo Bielsa
By Amy Lewis
Last Updated: 01/06/15 12:52pm
SSN
West Ham are discussing their vacant manager's job with four men - Frank de Boer, Unai Emery, Slaven Bilic and Marcelo Bielsa - according to Sky sources. The Hammers are keen to appoint a new boss within the next 10 days after former manager Sam Allardyce's contract was not renewed and he left the club last week. Ajax boss De Boer, whose side finished runners-up to PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie this season, was in contention for the Tottenham job before they hired Mauricio Pochettino last summer and has retained a desire to manage in England.
Besiktas boss Bilic, meanwhile, has an affinity with West Ham having played over 50 times for the club and is also believed to be keen to manage in the Premier League. Unai Emery is the Sevilla head coach who has clinched two successive Europa League trophies and Argentinian Bielsa is the current boss at Marseille. Last week, Hammers co-owner David Sullivan promised supporters there would be imminent signings and a 'big-name' manager. He said: "I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our club forwards. "It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one. "Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM'S EUROPEAN TOUR
By Sean Whetstone 1 Jun 2015 at 15:13
West Ham till I Die
The completion of many European seasons yesterday has settled the other 101 teams we could face in the first qualifying round of the Europa League.
Southampton have now also qualified for next season's Europa League thanks to Arsenal's 4-0 win over Aston Villa in the FA Cup final. The Saints who finished an impressive seventh in the league will enter the competition at the third qualifying round stage, meaning their first game will be on Thursday 30th July.
This means Liverpool who finished sixth in the Premier League will now join Spurs in the group stages of the competition in which 48 teams complete with their first group matches scheduled for 17th September.
West Ham will have to go the long way around by entering at the first qualifying round with our first game on 2nd July just 4 weeks away. Players are expected to return for pre-season training on Monday 22nd June.
The Europa league first qualifying round contains a total of 104 teams selected from 31 domestic cup winners, 35 domestic league runners-up, 35 domestic league third-placed teams and finally 3 teams which qualified via Fair Play ranking.
In the qualifying rounds and the play-off round, teams are divided into seeded and unseeded teams based on their 2015 UEFA club coefficients,313233 and then drawn into two-legged home-and-away ties. Teams from the same association cannot be drawn against each other. List of each country/team and their co efficient ranking below.
The club coefficient rankings are determined by the results of clubs in the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League over the previous five seasons, as well as by the coefficient of the clubs' association. The club coefficient is the sum of the points earned by the club over the five seasons plus 20% of the club's association coefficient.
West Ham have the highest coefficient so are seeded in top spot in the first qualifying round purely down to the Football Association/Premier League ranking.
England West Ham United Coeff. 16.078
Moldova Sheriff Tiraspol Coeff. 14.500
Norway Rosenborg Coeff. 11.875
Sweden Elfsborg Coeff. 11.545
Croatia Hajduk Split Coeff. 11.200
Cyprus Apollon Limassol Coeff. 10.460
Cyprus Omonia Coeff. 10.460
Slovakia Slovan Bratislava Coeff. 9.250
Sweden AIK Coeff. 9.045
Azerbaijan Neftchi Baku Coeff. 9.000
Slovakia Žilina Coeff. 8.750
Kazakhstan Aktobe Coeff. 8.575
Netherlands Go Ahead Eagles Coeff. 8.195
Serbia Red Star Belgrade Coeff. 7.775
Hungary Debrecen Coeff. 7.700
Denmark Brøndby Coeff. 7.460
Belarus Shakhtyor Soligorsk Coeff. 7.150
Georgia (country) Dinamo Tbilisi Coeff. 6.875
Serbia Vojvodina CC: 6.275
Slovakia Spartak Trnava Coeff. 6.250
Iceland FH Coeff. 6.100
Scotland St. Johnstone Coeff. 6.080
Bosnia and Herzegovina Željezni?ar Coeff. 6.000
Denmark Randers Coeff. 5.960
Norway Strømsgodset Coeff. 5.875
Iceland KR Coeff. 5.600
Romania Boto?ani Coeff. 5.259
Croatia Lokomotiva Coeff. 5.200
Republic of Ireland Shamrock Rovers Coeff. 5.150
Luxembourg F91 Dudelange Coeff. 5.025
Azerbaijan Inter Baku Coeff. 5.000
Northern Ireland Linfield Coeff. 4.975
Bulgaria Beroe Stara Zagora Coeff. 4.850
Malta Valletta Coeff. 4.841
Luxembourg Differdange 03 Coeff. 4.775
Republic of Macedonia Rabotni?ki CC: 4.675
Belarus Torpedo-BelAZ Zhodino Coeff. 4.650
Scotland Aberdeen Coeff. 4.580
Moldova Dacia Chi?in?u Coeff. 4.500
Slovenia Koper Coeff. 4.475
Republic of Ireland St Patrick's Athletic Coeff. 4.400
Bulgaria Lokomotiv Sofia Coeff. 4.350
Israel Beitar Jerusalem Coeff. 4.200
Bosnia and Herzegovina Zrinjski Mostar Coeff. 4.000
Faroe Islands HB Coeff. 3.950
Montenegro Budu?nost Podgorica Coeff. 3.875
Malta Birkirkara Coeff. 3.591
Slovenia Domžale Coeff. 3.475
Liechtenstein Vaduz Coeff. 3.450
Serbia ?ukari?ki Coeff. 3.275
Slovenia Celje Coeff. 3.225
Hungary Ferencváros Coeff. 3.200
Estonia Nõmme Kalju Coeff. 3.200
Estonia Flora Tallinn Coeff. 3.200
Montenegro Sutjeska Nikši? Coeff. 3.125
Latvia Skonto Coeff. 3.100
Faroe Islands Víkingur Gøta Coeff. 2.950
Republic of Macedonia Renova Coeff. 2.925
Norway Odd Coeff. 2.875
Albania Kukësi Coeff. 2.825
Azerbaijan Gabala Coeff. 2.750
Republic of Macedonia Shkëndija Coeff. 2.675
Kazakhstan Kairat Coeff. 2.575
Kazakhstan Ordabasy Coeff. 2.575
Hungary MTK Budapest Coeff. 2.450
Armenia Shirak Coeff. 2.300
Montenegro Mladost Podgorica Coeff. 2.125
Albania Laçi Coeff. 2.075
Armenia Ulisses Coeff. 2.050
Moldova Saxan Coeff. 2.000
Northern Ireland Glentoran Coeff. 1.975
Finland VPS Coeff. 1.890
Georgia (country) Dinamo Batumi Coeff. 1.875
Georgia (country) Spartaki Tskhinvali Coeff. 1.875
Estonia Sillamäe Kalev Coeff. 1.700
Andorra Lusitanos Coeff. 1.666
Finland SJK Coeff. 1.640
Finland Lahti Coeff. 1.640
Iceland Víkingur Reykjavík Coeff. 1.600
Latvia Jelgava Coeff. 1.600
Bosnia and Herzegovina Olimpic Coeff. 1.500
Faroe Islands NSÍ Runavík Coeff. 1.450
Andorra Sant Julià Coeff. 1.416
Lithuania Atlantas Coeff. 1.400
Northern Ireland Glenavon Coeff. 1.225
Republic of Ireland Cork City Coeff. 1.150
Republic of Ireland UCD Coeff. 1.150
Lithuania Kruoja Pakruojis Coeff. 1.150
San Marino La Fiorita Coeff. 1.099
Wales Airbus UK Broughton Coeff. 1.075
Albania Partizani Tirana Coeff. 1.075
Luxembourg Progrès Niederkorn Coeff. 1.025
Lithuania Trakai Coeff. 0.900
Latvia Spartaks J?rmala Coeff. 0.850
Malta Balzan Coeff. 0.841
Wales Bala Town Coeff. 0.825
San Marino Juvenes/Dogana Coeff. 0.599
Wales Newtown Coeff. 0.575
Armenia Alashkert Coeff. 0.550
Gibraltar College Europa Coeff. 0.300
Poland Runners-up or third-placed team of 2014–15 Ekstraklasa
Poland Fourth-placed team of 2014–15 Ekstraklasa
So which team do you fancy for a little European tour in the first round?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham manager search focused on Marcelo Bielsa as top target Unai Emery closes on the Napoli job
22:30, 1 JUNE 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
Ex-Hammer Slaven Bilic remains the bookies' favourite but Upton Park chiefs have the Marseille boss above him on their shopping list
The Mirror
West Ham are set to step up their interest in Marseille boss Marcelo Bielsa with their move for Europa League-winning Sevilla coach Unai Emery under threat. The Hammers are targeting a big name to replace Sam Allardyce, who left by mutual consent last month. Having seen Rafa Benitez - with whom they had agreed a deal - poached by Real Madrid, however, they are now being challenged for Emery's services by the club that Benitez is poised to leave, Napoli. It is understood Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is set to meet with Emery and his agent to persuade him to move to Serie A instead of the Premier League. The West Ham position, nonetheless, remains an attractive one and Mirror Sport first revealed last week that Argentinian Bielsa, whose Marseille side were narrowly beaten to a Champions League place, is keen. The east Londoners have never discounted the 59-year-old, despite claims that he is poised for a new deal at his French club.
Bookies' favourite and former Hammers star Slaven Bilic has confirmed his next job will be outside Turkey after leaving Besiktas at the end of the season. But neither he nor another of the names touted for the post, Ajax coach Frank De Boer, are uppermost in the thinking of the West Ham hierarchy.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Enner Valencia welcomes Chelsea transfer interest ahead of potential big-money move
22:30, 1 JUNE 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
Ecuador striker will decide his future after this month's Copa America and said "if it is for my good and that of West Ham then it is welcome"
The Mirror
West Ham forward Enner Valencia has claimed he will decide his future after this month's Copa America, amid interest from Chelsea.
The 25-year-old Ecuador star said: "We are going to see what happens after the Copa America - a competition in which I think we are going to do good things. "I have heard of the [interest from] Chelsea, yes. And other teams. But we are going to wait. You have to see what happens. "If it is for my good and that of West Ham, then it is welcome."
The Copa America begins on June 11 and runs until July 4. Ecuador kick off their group stage campaign against Chile on the opening day before playing Bolivia and Mexico. West Ham, however, insist Valencia - signed only last summer for £12million from Mexican club Pachuca - is going nowhere. The east Londoners remain relaxed in the knowledge that the player is on a five-year contract and that only a massive offer would tempt them into allowing him to leave Upton Park.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pulis aims to 'Baggie' Nene!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Nene is tonight being reported as being possibly set for a move to West Bromwich Albion. ESPN has said that the former Paris St Germain forward – who will not be offered a new Upton Park deal – could be on his way to the west midlands. They say that West Brom boss Tony Pulis is weighing up a move" for the 33-year-old who made just eight appearances at Upton Prk under Sam Allardyce's management.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia gets a "start performing" message
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Enner Valencia has been warned that he needs to perform for West Ham before he starts talking up a possible move to Chelsea. The striker went public on his Facebook page today, as we reported earlier, claiming he had heard of the Chelsea connection declaring: "If it is good for me and for West Ham, welcome it is!" However, there was a quick reaction from the club of mixed amusement and mild frustration with a top insider speaking for many. He said: "It sounds very much to me as if this is the case of a player believing press reports which are total rubbsh anyway – there has been no bid. "If Enner wants a big money move I think it would be realistic to expect him to start performing for West Ham United."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
De Boer staying at Ajax says agent
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Frank de Boer's agent Guido Albers has all-but ruled out the chances of the Dutch manager leaving Ajax this summer.
Albers told Dutch media "Frank has agreed that he will remain at Ajax next year. Only when Ajax itself indicates they no longer want him will other clubs come into the picture."
This morning Sky Sports claimed De Boer is one of four names on West Ham managerial shortlist ahead of next season.
Two days ago West Ham club insiders revealed to Claret and Hugh that the 45 year old is seen as as a gamble given that the Dutch League is among the weakest in Europe.
Admitting there was an interest, our source revealed added that it would be "entirely wrong" to put him among the front runners.
The source added: "Obviously he plays the kind of football very much associated with this club and has won titles in Holland but it's not unlike the Scottish League. How much does that mean? It would be a gamble."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons look at two more boss candidates
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham have considered an application from former Watford boss Slaviša Jokanović (above right) as their hunt for the new man continues.
And although he is an unlikely candidate, Eddie Howe still hasn't been entirely ruled out. However the club is still essentially looking for candidates with Premier League experience. Former Chelsea midfielder Jokanović led Watford to promotion last season but has left Vicarage Road reportedly after unable being able to agree new terms. He had been appointed on a short term contract when becoming their fourth coach in five weeks. Under him the club sealed promotion with a 2–0 win at Brighton. An insider admitted that he had been put forward but told us exclsuively: " It's such an important year that we have to get the appointment spot on. It could be seen as a gamble."
Eddie Howe's name has never been far from the front tier of candidates but the lack of Premier League experience remains a problem.
We were told: "He's a great young manager who has done a remarkable job at Bournemouth. Is he ready for life in the Premier League at West Ham ? That's a big question isn't it? Howe last year extended his Cherries contract until 2018 and around £2 million would be required in compensation were he to join the Irons.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benitez arrives in Madrid
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Rafael Benitez has arrived in Madrid, less than 24 hours after overseeing his final game in charge of Napoli which he lost 4-2 to Lazio.
Benitez is expected to be named the new Real Madrid coach this week. "I am enthusiastic and happy," Benitez told the Spanish press upon his arrival in the capital. "Although there are things that still need to be discussed," he said. It is claimed that Real Madrid hijacked a deal for Rafa Benitez with whom the Hammers were said to be within a couple of hours from reaching an agreement with.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Klopp confirms sabattical
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jürgen Klopp has confirmed he'll take a sabbatical until further notice telling media this morning "I will take a break until further notice, after seven intense and emotional years of 'Real Love', I consider it sensible to process all these memories until I'm fresh and full of motivation to take on a new task, together with my team."
Two days ago we reported that West Ham were refusing to give up on persuading Klopp to join West Ham but now it appears his mind is made up to have a break from football.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Upbeat Carroll tweets good news
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Andy Carroll appears to be very much on the mend and stepping up his training regime.
The striker tweeted an upbeat message giving hope that he could be back in action for the opening Europa Cup matches in July.
He wrote: "Great start to the week with a sunny session at Chadwell Heath."
He has been out of action since he underwent a knee operation back in February having suffered medial ligament damage against Southampton.
Should he be fit, the front man is almost certain to play as the Hammers would see the games as a perfect way of getting him up to full fitness.
The club kicks off its campaign on July 2.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emery in talks with Napoli president
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 1, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Spanish media say Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis boarded a flight to Madrid this morning in an attempt to secure the signing of Sevilla coach and West Ham target, Unai Emery to manage in Serie A next season.
De Lauerntiis and his right hand man, Andrea Chiavelli, will meet later this evening with Emery and his agent, Jorge Mendes, with the intention of convincing the Basque coach of a move to the San Paolo will further his career.
Emery will have to renounce Champions League football after Sevilla's win in last week's Europa League Following last night's 2-4 defeat to Lazio, Napoli will have to settle for Europa League football next season. If Emery isn't persuaded to join Napoli, then the next candidate in line For Napoli is said to be Serbian, Sinisa Mihajlovic, who today resigned as Sampdoria coach.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Tuesday, June 2
Monday, June 1
Daily WHUFC News - 1st June 2015
West Ham expand manager search after Marcelo Bielsa move divides the board
22:30, 30 MAY 2015
BY DEAN JONES
Former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is the latest name to catch their eye,
despite an unsuccessful stint at Galatasaray earlier this season
The Mirror
West Ham are expanding their search for a new boss as the board are divided
over making a formal move for Marcelo Bielsa. Marseille boss Bielsa emerged
as a strong candidate to replace Sam Allardyce because of his exciting brand
of football and ability to develop emerging talent. However, not all members
of the hierarchy are convinced he would be a success and are keeping the
door open to other options. Bielsa, 59, is now being offered a new deal in
France but West Ham owners will not be rushed into their next appointment.
Former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is the latest name to catch their eye,
despite an unsuccessful stint at Galatasaray earlier this season. They have
also shown interest in Ajax coach Frank De Boer but it is understood the
Dutchman has no interest in the job. Unai Emery, the Sevilla manager who won
the Europa League this week, is on the radar while Slaven Bilic also remains
on the list of David Sullivan, David Gold and Karren Brady.
Meanwhile, West Ham will sign a new back-up goalkeeper this week as
Birmingham's Darren Randolph has agreed a four-year deal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make £5.75m bid for Sampdoria's Spain Under 21 midfielder Pedro
Obiang
22:30, 30 MAY 2015
BY STEVE BATES
The 23-year-old box-to-box Spaniard has was tracked by Hammers scouts last
season as he scored 3 times in 33 Serie A games for the club
The Mirror
West Ham have made their first moves in the summer transfer market lodging a
£5.75 million bid for Sampdoria midfielder Pedro Obiang.
The 23-year-old box-to-box Spaniard has was tracked by Hammers scouts last
season as he scored 3 times in 33 Serie A games for the club, report the
Sunday People.
Obiang, capped by Spain at Under 17,19 and 21 level, is also a target for
clubs in Italy as well as his native Spain where he started his career in
the youth set-up before leaving for Sampdoria at 16.
Europa League winners Sevilla and Valencia have also watched Obiang
regularly while Tottenham and Everton have also been at Sampdoria matches
this season to check the powerful midfielder.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano: From Upton Park to the Champions League
final
23:09, 30 MAY 2015
BY STEVE STAMMERS
Now a UEFA dignitary, Eggert Magnusson saw the Argentines come and go from
Upton Park during his year as chairman
The Mirror
This Saturday night, in the Olympiastadion Berlin, Eggert Magnusson will
take his seat among the UEFA dignitaries to watch the Champions League
final. And he will be watching two players who were both released by West
Ham during his year-long tenure at Upton Park because they were unwanted.
Javier Mascherano stayed only four months and played five games while Carlos
Tevez was there for one season and featured 26 times – while Icelandic
businessman Magnusson was executive chairman. Now Mascherano lines up for
Barcelona and Tevez for Juventus but Magnusson absolves himself and the club
hierarchy of responsibility for the brilliant pair making such a brief stay
at the Boleyn Ground. He insists: "Don't blame me. It was down to the
managers."
Back in November 2006, Magnusson was installed at West Ham in a takeover.
Alan Pardew was the team boss and not only was the team struggling, but
Tevez and Mascherano could not get a regular run in the side. "It appeared,
when we looked at it, that the manager did not really want them," said
Magnusson. There was a suspicion among the consortium that bought out Terry
Brown that the club was something of a last resort. The two Argentines had
been together at Brazilian club Corinthians but struggled to find a
European club to take them. West Ham did – and it appeared the club was
just being used as a shop window. "We did not know about the contract
situation with Javier and Carlos until we took over," said Magnusson. "It
was very complicated."
So complicated that the third party ownership involving entrepreneur and
agent Kia Joorabchian cost West Ham a £5.5million fine from the Premier
League and an £18.1m compensation payment to Sheffield United, who were
relegated while West Ham survived. "They were lovely guys," recalled
Magnusson. "But they did not speak English and were not playing regularly.
There were no restrictions on when they should play. None." And the salaries
were also an issue. "They were high," confirmed Magnusson.
Pardew was sacked in the December and replaced by Alan Curbishley. He had
Mascherano for less than a month before he went on loan to Liverpool – a
move finalised in an £18.5m deal at the end of the season. Crystal Palace
manager Alan PardewIn charge: Alan Pardew was Hammers' boss when the
Argentine duo joined the East London club
"Again, it was the manager's decision, not that of the board," said
Magnusson. "The club was not in a good position in the league. He decided
on the players he wanted and the salaries were a lot less than Mascherano's.
The saving was a lot of money. "Mascherano had not been a good player for
West Ham because he hadn't been used. We needed people who would help the
club stay up. "But it was the management who made the final decision, not
the board."
Tevez stayed and Curbishley's decision to keep him was inspired. Sheffield
United lost at home to Wigan on the final day and Tevez scored against
Manchester United, keeping West Ham in the Premier League. Tevez moved to
United that summer and in September 2007 Magnusson stepped down as executive
chairman, selling his five per cent stake three months later. He is now
retired and works for UEFA and the Icelandic FA.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Eddie Howe becomes bookies second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
In the volatile betting market for next West Ham Manager, Bournemouth
manager Eddie Howe was made a surprise second favourite by bookmaker SkyBet
last night at odds at 5/1. He is the forth second favourite within the last
week as the bookies react to every rumour and significant bet placed for the
next gaffer. However, not all bookmakers see Howe as a credible replacement
for Allardyce and PaddyPower are still offering odds of 16/1 and list him
as seventh favourite.
When Howe's name was linked in March our regular West Ham insider told us
the board admire the manager but he lacks Premier League experience so would
be seen as a gamble. He told us.
"Somewhere down the line it's a yes but the issue remains the same. we can't
have a rookie boss. He's a great boss but he would likely stay where he is
anyway. We really do need experience."
The 37-year-old has taken Bournemouth from the bottom four of the Football
League in 2008 to the promised land of the Premier League. Forward-thinking
Howe has shown himself able to assert his authority and impressed his staff
and players with his training methods. His contract at the club runs until
the summer of 2018 and Howe has always had the full backing of owner Maxim
Demin.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Atletico Madrid beat West Ham in final
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
A golden goal from Atletico Madrid gave them a 3-2 Cup victory over West Ham
in the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens final in Kong Kong today.
West Ham had victory in their sight with a brace from Jaanai Gordon either
side of half-time lifting hopes of the Soccer sevens cup. But with three
minutes left, Atletico pulled off a comeback scoring two goals in the space
of 80 seconds to push the final into extra-time.
Newcastle lost in the semi finals when goalkeeper Adam Bartlett was shown
the red card midway through the first half for a challenge on West Ham's
Oscar Borg just outside the penalty area.
Hammers striker Gordon squeezed a shot between a defender and the keeper to
open the scoring in the fourth minute. Gordon then added a second soon after
the break with a breakaway goal. "It was unfortunate to score two goals and
still end up on the losing side. Atletico are a good side and this happens,"
said 19-year-old Gordon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benitez issues has Davids playing catch-up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
The impatience and frustration over the managerial position is
understandable!
But the mud slinging and downright anger plus accusations that theissuer
should have been sorted before getting rid of Sam Allardyce is not.
No manager will move on until the season comes to anend when they are
involved in their own club issues – it doesn't happen.
But had Real Madrid not hijacked Rafa Benitez with whom we were a couple of
hours from reaching a deal we wouldn't be in the current position
Right now there are four big names on the list to take over; Jurgen Klopp,
Unai Emery and Carlo Ancelloti are three of them – the other is remaining a
closely guarded secret which no amount of alternative questioning can
uncover.
Klopp and Emery – as reported here – have both been linked with Napoli
whilst Ancelloti is still planning to take a year out to undergo surgery –
we'll see!
The two Davids are of course taking stick in certain areas for not getting
the thing sorted but they are coming back from the Benitez position and may
or may not land one of the four on their list. They are playing catch-up but
they refuse to panic.
It would of course be very easy to go and get one of the second level
candidates and they don't need naming. You know who they are.
But until the co-owners are absolutely certain that none of the top choices
are available they are refusing to go for second and third fiddles.
Personally, I'm happy with that. How bad would it be to install a boss who
was very much a back-up candidate and then find that one of the above named
became available.
Patience is not a virtue commonly found in this game but given the Benitez
scenario let's cut the bosses some slack because personally I believe we'll
know who is taking over within 14 days.
Frustrating? Yes…End of the world? Most definitely not.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Increased bid for Song's replacement
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Reports gathering pace again today claim that Pedro Obiang is nearing a move
to West Ham to become the second summer signing of the season. Two tabloids
claim that West Ham have lodged a fresh £5.75M (8 million Euro) bid with
Sampdoria increasing a previous bid of 7.5 million Euros they made earlier
this month.
In early May Sport Italia journalist Alfredo Pedulla said the Hammers had
reached an agreement in principle with Sampdoria for the transfer Pedro
Obiang for a fee at 7.5 million Euros (£5.4m) but late interest from Spurs
and Stoke City encouraged Sampdoria to slap another one million Euros on his
asking price. If the latest reports are to be believed the two parties have
met half way on the transfer fee.
The Spanish midfielder has made 60 appearances for Sampdoria since 2010
scoring just one goal. Obiang was capped for Spain at youth levels and is
seen as an ideal replacement for Alex Song.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers waiting on Emery response
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Reports that Unai Emery will make up his mind this week whether to take over
at West Ham or Napoli have emerged this morning.
And West Ham have confirmed exclusively to ClaretandHugh within the last few
minutes that they are waiting on a response from the Seville manager but
claim it's not a two way choice.
A top source told us: "It's more a case of us, Napoli or staying where he is
now Seville have qualified for the Champions League. We will have to be
patient for a few more days."
The 43-year-old Europa League winning boss is reported as being impressed
with our ambition and forthcoming move into the Olympic Stadium.
And with Napoli also understood to be interested in Jurgen Klopp an
interesting few days are ahead of us.
The news that we are bang in there negotiating for the man who has been
described as "the next Jose Mourinho" by some is another indication that the
two Davids are determined to try getting the very best whilst they are on
the market.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham linked with another Italian boss
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jason Burt writing in yesterday's Telegraph has suggested West Ham have been
in contact with representatives of current national Italian manager Antonio
Conte but he wants to remain in post for the Euro 2016 tournament.
Burt claims "Intriguingly there is also understood to have been some contact
from West Ham with Antonio Conte, the former Juventus coach, but he intends
to remain as the coach of Italy until the conclusion of Euro 2016."
A few months ago Burt suggested Conte was considering quitting Italy after
receiving death threats via social media from Juventus fans. Conte won three
consecutive Serie A titles with Juve before succeeding Cesare Prandelli as
Italy coach after the World Cup failure. Prandelli was also linked to West
Ham earlier this week although the Hammers are thought to have rejected a
move from his representatives.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Beckenbauer: 'Klopp will go to Napoli'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jurgen Klopp will be the next Coach of Napoli after Rafa Benitez goes to
Real Madrid, claims Franz Beckenbauer.
"Next season Klopp will be training in the South of Italy, at Napoli,"
German legend Beckenbauer told Sky Sport Deutschland.
The former Borussia Dortmund manager had been linked to West Ham, Liverpool
and Napoli but Beckenbauer says he has agreed to replace Rafa Benitez if
Napoli snatch third place from Lazio this evening which would put them in
the preliminary round of the Champions League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carr on Rio: 'I convinced him to play centre-back'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
"I just remember him coming to the training ground, he was choosing which
club he would sign for. He was a tall, skinny, skilful midfield player,"
West Ham Ambassador Tony Carr has told the Press Association about first
meeting of former Hammer Rio Ferdinand who retired from football this week.
"He had attacking instincts but the one thing that did strike me was his
enthusiasm for the game, he just loved to play and that shone all the way
through for me. In some respects some of that is missing from the game these
days with some players."
"The environment that was created around the club at that time, it was – and
is – a very welcoming club to everybody, parents and players alike. There
was always a friendly voice or a bit of advice from anybody if any of the
young players had problems – there were always people there for the
players."
"He could do most things. He has a good left foot, a good right foot. He
could run, jump, create things. He had a fine touch on the ball and an
astute awareness of what was around him. It was obvious from the word go
that the boy had a lot of talent."
"Where that talent takes you at that age you don't know but my first
impression was that he was very talented and an all-round player. He had
more all-round ability than a lot of young players at that time."
"He had most things that you would have needed to become a professional
footballer. I never had doubts but you never know for sure. It was about
making sure he was at the right club, which we felt was West Ham."
"It was very obvious that he had ability abound and could do everything
asked of him. He only ever needed to be told anything once and he would
grasp it and get on with it. I wouldn't say that I have seen a more talented
player, a more all-round player than him."
"He wasn't the type of boy who would turn up and say 'I'm the governor here'
but certainly when he came on the staff as an apprentice you could see the
love and passion for the game and the confidence he oozed, the confidence in
his own ability."
"That wasn't a hindrance, it was a real plus for him that he could go out
and express himself and at a club that encouraged him to break out from the
back."
"Remember he came as a midfield player and in his youth team days I
convinced him to play centre-back, he didn't want to at first but certainly
did in the end and became a world-class player through that."
"I think there was a change afoot around that time, we needed to develop
players that could break into midfield and play their part in that area.
Obviously Rio fitted that to a tee, he read the game well and had good pace
and anticipation. He could break into midfield and be effective. He was one
of the first and the game in general started to encourage that.
"We are still looking at defenders now and it is important that they are
comfortable on the ball and Rio is one who could do that in the most
confident way.
"I'd like to think he has been truly appreciated. He has had all of the
accolades, he has won the European Cup and Premierships – been to World
Cups.
"He has been appreciated but anyone that hasn't appreciated his talents at
his best they were blinded because he was one of the best all-round
defenders this country has ever produced."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Redknapp: 'Sam wrong boss for owners and fans'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Harry Redknapp reckons Sam Allardyce was always the wrong fit as West Ham
manager.
Speaking to KICCA the former Irons boss said: "Sam Allardyce was always the
wrong kind of manager for the owners and the fans at West Ham.
"I just think that Sam didn't sit with the owners. He's not how they see
their manager. Sam's a big, rough northerner.
"He's done a great job wherever he goes but I don't think there's any love
lost there between the manager and the Chairman in all honesty deep down.
"For the club and the fans, you get the impression it was a personality
issue.
"Sam's done a great job don't get me wrong, I just get the feeling that
behind the scenes Sam was not their man.
"I just get the feeling that David Sullivan, who I get on very well with,
feels they want to go in a different direction.
"The fans were not in love with Sam, for whatever reason. Don't ask me why.
A lot of them like him but a lot of them quickly turn on him when things
don't go well.
"They talk about the Academy but that was a long, long, long, long time ago
that West Ham played this wonderful football that everyone talks about.
"We're talking about Ron Greenwood's days probably and in those days he had
three players who played in a World Cup Final so it wasn't difficult to play
fantastic football. But also where did they finish in them years… bottom
half of the league even with three World Cup players.
"So you can't have it all ways, Sam produces results."
Redknapp added: "They're in that middle league, that's where you see West
Ham. At the start of the year I'd have said yeah they'll stay up, they'll be
out of that bottom six or seven who are scrapping to stay up but they won't
be in the top six or seven who are looking to get into Europe.
"They're below that Tottenham upwards level this year. So they are about
where you would expect them to be, or where you'd hope they would be.
"It's been a good season for them, middle of the table would be a good
season like it will be for Stoke and one or two other teams around there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
22:30, 30 MAY 2015
BY DEAN JONES
Former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is the latest name to catch their eye,
despite an unsuccessful stint at Galatasaray earlier this season
The Mirror
West Ham are expanding their search for a new boss as the board are divided
over making a formal move for Marcelo Bielsa. Marseille boss Bielsa emerged
as a strong candidate to replace Sam Allardyce because of his exciting brand
of football and ability to develop emerging talent. However, not all members
of the hierarchy are convinced he would be a success and are keeping the
door open to other options. Bielsa, 59, is now being offered a new deal in
France but West Ham owners will not be rushed into their next appointment.
Former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is the latest name to catch their eye,
despite an unsuccessful stint at Galatasaray earlier this season. They have
also shown interest in Ajax coach Frank De Boer but it is understood the
Dutchman has no interest in the job. Unai Emery, the Sevilla manager who won
the Europa League this week, is on the radar while Slaven Bilic also remains
on the list of David Sullivan, David Gold and Karren Brady.
Meanwhile, West Ham will sign a new back-up goalkeeper this week as
Birmingham's Darren Randolph has agreed a four-year deal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make £5.75m bid for Sampdoria's Spain Under 21 midfielder Pedro
Obiang
22:30, 30 MAY 2015
BY STEVE BATES
The 23-year-old box-to-box Spaniard has was tracked by Hammers scouts last
season as he scored 3 times in 33 Serie A games for the club
The Mirror
West Ham have made their first moves in the summer transfer market lodging a
£5.75 million bid for Sampdoria midfielder Pedro Obiang.
The 23-year-old box-to-box Spaniard has was tracked by Hammers scouts last
season as he scored 3 times in 33 Serie A games for the club, report the
Sunday People.
Obiang, capped by Spain at Under 17,19 and 21 level, is also a target for
clubs in Italy as well as his native Spain where he started his career in
the youth set-up before leaving for Sampdoria at 16.
Europa League winners Sevilla and Valencia have also watched Obiang
regularly while Tottenham and Everton have also been at Sampdoria matches
this season to check the powerful midfielder.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano: From Upton Park to the Champions League
final
23:09, 30 MAY 2015
BY STEVE STAMMERS
Now a UEFA dignitary, Eggert Magnusson saw the Argentines come and go from
Upton Park during his year as chairman
The Mirror
This Saturday night, in the Olympiastadion Berlin, Eggert Magnusson will
take his seat among the UEFA dignitaries to watch the Champions League
final. And he will be watching two players who were both released by West
Ham during his year-long tenure at Upton Park because they were unwanted.
Javier Mascherano stayed only four months and played five games while Carlos
Tevez was there for one season and featured 26 times – while Icelandic
businessman Magnusson was executive chairman. Now Mascherano lines up for
Barcelona and Tevez for Juventus but Magnusson absolves himself and the club
hierarchy of responsibility for the brilliant pair making such a brief stay
at the Boleyn Ground. He insists: "Don't blame me. It was down to the
managers."
Back in November 2006, Magnusson was installed at West Ham in a takeover.
Alan Pardew was the team boss and not only was the team struggling, but
Tevez and Mascherano could not get a regular run in the side. "It appeared,
when we looked at it, that the manager did not really want them," said
Magnusson. There was a suspicion among the consortium that bought out Terry
Brown that the club was something of a last resort. The two Argentines had
been together at Brazilian club Corinthians but struggled to find a
European club to take them. West Ham did – and it appeared the club was
just being used as a shop window. "We did not know about the contract
situation with Javier and Carlos until we took over," said Magnusson. "It
was very complicated."
So complicated that the third party ownership involving entrepreneur and
agent Kia Joorabchian cost West Ham a £5.5million fine from the Premier
League and an £18.1m compensation payment to Sheffield United, who were
relegated while West Ham survived. "They were lovely guys," recalled
Magnusson. "But they did not speak English and were not playing regularly.
There were no restrictions on when they should play. None." And the salaries
were also an issue. "They were high," confirmed Magnusson.
Pardew was sacked in the December and replaced by Alan Curbishley. He had
Mascherano for less than a month before he went on loan to Liverpool – a
move finalised in an £18.5m deal at the end of the season. Crystal Palace
manager Alan PardewIn charge: Alan Pardew was Hammers' boss when the
Argentine duo joined the East London club
"Again, it was the manager's decision, not that of the board," said
Magnusson. "The club was not in a good position in the league. He decided
on the players he wanted and the salaries were a lot less than Mascherano's.
The saving was a lot of money. "Mascherano had not been a good player for
West Ham because he hadn't been used. We needed people who would help the
club stay up. "But it was the management who made the final decision, not
the board."
Tevez stayed and Curbishley's decision to keep him was inspired. Sheffield
United lost at home to Wigan on the final day and Tevez scored against
Manchester United, keeping West Ham in the Premier League. Tevez moved to
United that summer and in September 2007 Magnusson stepped down as executive
chairman, selling his five per cent stake three months later. He is now
retired and works for UEFA and the Icelandic FA.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Eddie Howe becomes bookies second favourite
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
In the volatile betting market for next West Ham Manager, Bournemouth
manager Eddie Howe was made a surprise second favourite by bookmaker SkyBet
last night at odds at 5/1. He is the forth second favourite within the last
week as the bookies react to every rumour and significant bet placed for the
next gaffer. However, not all bookmakers see Howe as a credible replacement
for Allardyce and PaddyPower are still offering odds of 16/1 and list him
as seventh favourite.
When Howe's name was linked in March our regular West Ham insider told us
the board admire the manager but he lacks Premier League experience so would
be seen as a gamble. He told us.
"Somewhere down the line it's a yes but the issue remains the same. we can't
have a rookie boss. He's a great boss but he would likely stay where he is
anyway. We really do need experience."
The 37-year-old has taken Bournemouth from the bottom four of the Football
League in 2008 to the promised land of the Premier League. Forward-thinking
Howe has shown himself able to assert his authority and impressed his staff
and players with his training methods. His contract at the club runs until
the summer of 2018 and Howe has always had the full backing of owner Maxim
Demin.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Atletico Madrid beat West Ham in final
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
A golden goal from Atletico Madrid gave them a 3-2 Cup victory over West Ham
in the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens final in Kong Kong today.
West Ham had victory in their sight with a brace from Jaanai Gordon either
side of half-time lifting hopes of the Soccer sevens cup. But with three
minutes left, Atletico pulled off a comeback scoring two goals in the space
of 80 seconds to push the final into extra-time.
Newcastle lost in the semi finals when goalkeeper Adam Bartlett was shown
the red card midway through the first half for a challenge on West Ham's
Oscar Borg just outside the penalty area.
Hammers striker Gordon squeezed a shot between a defender and the keeper to
open the scoring in the fourth minute. Gordon then added a second soon after
the break with a breakaway goal. "It was unfortunate to score two goals and
still end up on the losing side. Atletico are a good side and this happens,"
said 19-year-old Gordon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benitez issues has Davids playing catch-up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
The impatience and frustration over the managerial position is
understandable!
But the mud slinging and downright anger plus accusations that theissuer
should have been sorted before getting rid of Sam Allardyce is not.
No manager will move on until the season comes to anend when they are
involved in their own club issues – it doesn't happen.
But had Real Madrid not hijacked Rafa Benitez with whom we were a couple of
hours from reaching a deal we wouldn't be in the current position
Right now there are four big names on the list to take over; Jurgen Klopp,
Unai Emery and Carlo Ancelloti are three of them – the other is remaining a
closely guarded secret which no amount of alternative questioning can
uncover.
Klopp and Emery – as reported here – have both been linked with Napoli
whilst Ancelloti is still planning to take a year out to undergo surgery –
we'll see!
The two Davids are of course taking stick in certain areas for not getting
the thing sorted but they are coming back from the Benitez position and may
or may not land one of the four on their list. They are playing catch-up but
they refuse to panic.
It would of course be very easy to go and get one of the second level
candidates and they don't need naming. You know who they are.
But until the co-owners are absolutely certain that none of the top choices
are available they are refusing to go for second and third fiddles.
Personally, I'm happy with that. How bad would it be to install a boss who
was very much a back-up candidate and then find that one of the above named
became available.
Patience is not a virtue commonly found in this game but given the Benitez
scenario let's cut the bosses some slack because personally I believe we'll
know who is taking over within 14 days.
Frustrating? Yes…End of the world? Most definitely not.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Increased bid for Song's replacement
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Reports gathering pace again today claim that Pedro Obiang is nearing a move
to West Ham to become the second summer signing of the season. Two tabloids
claim that West Ham have lodged a fresh £5.75M (8 million Euro) bid with
Sampdoria increasing a previous bid of 7.5 million Euros they made earlier
this month.
In early May Sport Italia journalist Alfredo Pedulla said the Hammers had
reached an agreement in principle with Sampdoria for the transfer Pedro
Obiang for a fee at 7.5 million Euros (£5.4m) but late interest from Spurs
and Stoke City encouraged Sampdoria to slap another one million Euros on his
asking price. If the latest reports are to be believed the two parties have
met half way on the transfer fee.
The Spanish midfielder has made 60 appearances for Sampdoria since 2010
scoring just one goal. Obiang was capped for Spain at youth levels and is
seen as an ideal replacement for Alex Song.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers waiting on Emery response
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Reports that Unai Emery will make up his mind this week whether to take over
at West Ham or Napoli have emerged this morning.
And West Ham have confirmed exclusively to ClaretandHugh within the last few
minutes that they are waiting on a response from the Seville manager but
claim it's not a two way choice.
A top source told us: "It's more a case of us, Napoli or staying where he is
now Seville have qualified for the Champions League. We will have to be
patient for a few more days."
The 43-year-old Europa League winning boss is reported as being impressed
with our ambition and forthcoming move into the Olympic Stadium.
And with Napoli also understood to be interested in Jurgen Klopp an
interesting few days are ahead of us.
The news that we are bang in there negotiating for the man who has been
described as "the next Jose Mourinho" by some is another indication that the
two Davids are determined to try getting the very best whilst they are on
the market.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham linked with another Italian boss
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jason Burt writing in yesterday's Telegraph has suggested West Ham have been
in contact with representatives of current national Italian manager Antonio
Conte but he wants to remain in post for the Euro 2016 tournament.
Burt claims "Intriguingly there is also understood to have been some contact
from West Ham with Antonio Conte, the former Juventus coach, but he intends
to remain as the coach of Italy until the conclusion of Euro 2016."
A few months ago Burt suggested Conte was considering quitting Italy after
receiving death threats via social media from Juventus fans. Conte won three
consecutive Serie A titles with Juve before succeeding Cesare Prandelli as
Italy coach after the World Cup failure. Prandelli was also linked to West
Ham earlier this week although the Hammers are thought to have rejected a
move from his representatives.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Beckenbauer: 'Klopp will go to Napoli'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Jurgen Klopp will be the next Coach of Napoli after Rafa Benitez goes to
Real Madrid, claims Franz Beckenbauer.
"Next season Klopp will be training in the South of Italy, at Napoli,"
German legend Beckenbauer told Sky Sport Deutschland.
The former Borussia Dortmund manager had been linked to West Ham, Liverpool
and Napoli but Beckenbauer says he has agreed to replace Rafa Benitez if
Napoli snatch third place from Lazio this evening which would put them in
the preliminary round of the Champions League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carr on Rio: 'I convinced him to play centre-back'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
"I just remember him coming to the training ground, he was choosing which
club he would sign for. He was a tall, skinny, skilful midfield player,"
West Ham Ambassador Tony Carr has told the Press Association about first
meeting of former Hammer Rio Ferdinand who retired from football this week.
"He had attacking instincts but the one thing that did strike me was his
enthusiasm for the game, he just loved to play and that shone all the way
through for me. In some respects some of that is missing from the game these
days with some players."
"The environment that was created around the club at that time, it was – and
is – a very welcoming club to everybody, parents and players alike. There
was always a friendly voice or a bit of advice from anybody if any of the
young players had problems – there were always people there for the
players."
"He could do most things. He has a good left foot, a good right foot. He
could run, jump, create things. He had a fine touch on the ball and an
astute awareness of what was around him. It was obvious from the word go
that the boy had a lot of talent."
"Where that talent takes you at that age you don't know but my first
impression was that he was very talented and an all-round player. He had
more all-round ability than a lot of young players at that time."
"He had most things that you would have needed to become a professional
footballer. I never had doubts but you never know for sure. It was about
making sure he was at the right club, which we felt was West Ham."
"It was very obvious that he had ability abound and could do everything
asked of him. He only ever needed to be told anything once and he would
grasp it and get on with it. I wouldn't say that I have seen a more talented
player, a more all-round player than him."
"He wasn't the type of boy who would turn up and say 'I'm the governor here'
but certainly when he came on the staff as an apprentice you could see the
love and passion for the game and the confidence he oozed, the confidence in
his own ability."
"That wasn't a hindrance, it was a real plus for him that he could go out
and express himself and at a club that encouraged him to break out from the
back."
"Remember he came as a midfield player and in his youth team days I
convinced him to play centre-back, he didn't want to at first but certainly
did in the end and became a world-class player through that."
"I think there was a change afoot around that time, we needed to develop
players that could break into midfield and play their part in that area.
Obviously Rio fitted that to a tee, he read the game well and had good pace
and anticipation. He could break into midfield and be effective. He was one
of the first and the game in general started to encourage that.
"We are still looking at defenders now and it is important that they are
comfortable on the ball and Rio is one who could do that in the most
confident way.
"I'd like to think he has been truly appreciated. He has had all of the
accolades, he has won the European Cup and Premierships – been to World
Cups.
"He has been appreciated but anyone that hasn't appreciated his talents at
his best they were blinded because he was one of the best all-round
defenders this country has ever produced."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Redknapp: 'Sam wrong boss for owners and fans'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 31, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Harry Redknapp reckons Sam Allardyce was always the wrong fit as West Ham
manager.
Speaking to KICCA the former Irons boss said: "Sam Allardyce was always the
wrong kind of manager for the owners and the fans at West Ham.
"I just think that Sam didn't sit with the owners. He's not how they see
their manager. Sam's a big, rough northerner.
"He's done a great job wherever he goes but I don't think there's any love
lost there between the manager and the Chairman in all honesty deep down.
"For the club and the fans, you get the impression it was a personality
issue.
"Sam's done a great job don't get me wrong, I just get the feeling that
behind the scenes Sam was not their man.
"I just get the feeling that David Sullivan, who I get on very well with,
feels they want to go in a different direction.
"The fans were not in love with Sam, for whatever reason. Don't ask me why.
A lot of them like him but a lot of them quickly turn on him when things
don't go well.
"They talk about the Academy but that was a long, long, long, long time ago
that West Ham played this wonderful football that everyone talks about.
"We're talking about Ron Greenwood's days probably and in those days he had
three players who played in a World Cup Final so it wasn't difficult to play
fantastic football. But also where did they finish in them years… bottom
half of the league even with three World Cup players.
"So you can't have it all ways, Sam produces results."
Redknapp added: "They're in that middle league, that's where you see West
Ham. At the start of the year I'd have said yeah they'll stay up, they'll be
out of that bottom six or seven who are scrapping to stay up but they won't
be in the top six or seven who are looking to get into Europe.
"They're below that Tottenham upwards level this year. So they are about
where you would expect them to be, or where you'd hope they would be.
"It's been a good season for them, middle of the table would be a good
season like it will be for Stoke and one or two other teams around there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, May 31
Daily WHUFC News - 31st June 2015
Hammers catch 'keeper Randolph
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Republic of Ireland
international goalkeeper Darren Randolph.
The 28-year-old will arrive on a free transfer on 1 July after his contract
with Championship club Birmingham City expired, and will provide long-term
competition for first-team stopper Adrián.
Randolph started 45 league games for the Blues in 2014/15, keeping 12 clean
sheets and producing a string of outstanding performances as Birmingham
recovered from a horrendous start to climb to a final position of tenth.
The Bray-born stopper began with Irish junior club Ardmore Rovers before
moving to English football with Charlton Athletic at the age of 16 in 2005.
Since then, he has chalked up nearly 300 career appearances.
After loan spells with Accrington Stanley and Gillingham, Randolph made his
Premier League debut for the Addicks in a 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield
in May 2007.
Following further loan spells with Bury and Hereford United, Randolph moved
north of the border to join Scottish Premier League club Motherwell, where
he made his debut in a UEFA Europa League tie with Norwegian side Aalesund
in July 2010 and immediately established himself as the No1.
A fantastic debut season in Scotland saw Motherwell reach the 2011 Scottish
Cup final, while he also broke John Ruddy's club record for clean sheets in
a single season.
Randolph's outstanding form and consistency saw him voted into the PFA
Scotland Team of the Year in both 2011/12 and 2012/13, helping the Steelmen
to finish second in the Scottish Premier League in the latter.
The goalkeeper's form at Fir Park caught the eye of then-Ireland manager
Giovanni Trappatoni, who called him up for the first time in autumn 2011. A
senior international debut arrived in a friendly against Oman at Fulham's
Craven Cottage in September 2012, when he lined up alongside West Ham's Joey
O'Brien.
Randolph could add to that tally soon, as he is in the provisional Ireland
squad for upcoming international matches with England and Scotland later
this month.
Summer 2013 saw the Irish son of former American basketball player Ed
Randolph, who played for Irish Premier League club UCD Marian in the late
1980s, move back to England with Birmingham.
At St Andrews, he missed just one league match in the past two seasons,
attracting attention from Barclays Premier League clubs.
Randolph joins the long list of Irish players to have represented the
Hammers, including Liam Brady (1986-90), Gary Breen (2002-03), Noel Cantwell
(1952-60), Johnny Carroll (1948-49), Clive Clarke (2005-06), David Connolly
(2003-04), Noel Dwyer (1958-60), Ray Houghton (1982), Chris Hughton
(1990-92), Robbie Keane (2011), Fred Kearns (1949-54), David Kelly
(1988-90), Danny McGowan (1948-54), Tommy Moroney (1947-53), Billy Neville
(1957-58), Frank O'Farrell (1950-57), Joey O'Brien (2011-present) and
Charlie Turner (1937-39).
*You can follow West Ham's newest signing Darren Randolph on Twitter at
@Randz587.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Randolph - The First Interview
WHUFc.com
Darren Randolph has spoken of his 'excitement' after agreeing to join West
Ham United this summer. The Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper
will link up with the Hammers on 1 July, after his contract with
Championship club Birmingham City has expired. The 28-year-old has been a
first-team regular with both Birmingham and former side Motherwell for the
past five seasons, and is determined to push Adrian all the way for a
starting place at the Boleyn Ground.
In his first interview with whufc.com, Randolph is looking forward to
returning to the Boleyn Ground, ten years after making his top-flight debut
as a teenager with Charlton Athletic.
"My initial reaction to joining West Ham is excitement," said the Bray-born
stopper. "It was a tough decision turning down Birmingham's offer of a new
contract because of the second part of the season we had and the team we had
built.
"They are a great group of lads and staff but I felt like I couldn't turn
down the chance of joining a club like West Ham. Everybody wants to try and
get to the top of their profession and I'm no different."
For Randolph, who has totalled 289 senior club appearances during his
career, signing for West Ham completes a journey back to the Barclays
Premier League that included stops in Scotland and England's second city.
Now, he wants to establish himself at the highest level, but knows
dislodging the Hammers' popular Spanish goalkeeper from the starting XI is
going to be no easy task.
"I started at Charlton when I was 16 and left when I was 23," he explained.
"It has been a long journey to try get back to the Premier League and a
great achievement to be able to do so. It is where players all around the
world would like to be.
"I've played for the last five seasons so I would like to think I can come
in and challenge for a place in the team. Adrian's had a fantastic season so
it is going be tough, but it is a challenge I look forward to."
Having signed for West Ham, Randolph is determined to enjoy being part of
two historic seasons, bidding farewell to the Boleyn Ground before saying
hello to the new Stadium in Stratford.
"It is definitely an exciting time to be part of West Ham with the changes
coming up," he confirmed. "So, hopefully we will have a memorable last
season at Upton Park and then onto the Olympic Stadium to kick on again!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Randolph – Ten Fast Facts
WHUFc.com
Ten Fast Facts you might not know about West Ham United's new goalkeeper
Darren Randolph!
Darren Randolph's father Ed Randolph played basketball for UCD Marian and
was one of the first American imports to the Irish Basketball League. Darren
himself is a former Irish basketball international, so he is clearly good
with his hands!
Darren Randolph was born in the seaside town of Bray, County Wicklow,
situated 12 miles south of the Republic of Ireland's capital Dublin
Darren Randolph attended St. Cronan's Boys National School in Bray, which
also names WWE wrestler Prince Devitt among its former pupils.
Darren Randolph later attended Presentation College in Bray, which was also
attended by Middlesex and Ireland cricketer Ed Joyce and former Ireland
Rugby international Reggie Corrigan.
Darren Randolph has represented Republic of Ireland at U15, U16, U17, U18,
U19, U21, B and senior levels!
Darren Randolph made his senior professional debut during a loan spell with
Conference South club Welling United in 2004.
If he was not a footballer, Darren Randolph would like to be a basketball
player or a Formula 1 driver.
Darren Randolph names the American city of Miami as his favourite holiday
destination.
Darren Randolph names Italy and former Manchester United striker Guiseppe
Rossi as his toughest-ever opponent.
Darren Randolph names former Charlton Athletic teammate Paolo Di Canio as
the best player he has ever lined up alongside.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers make strong start in Hong Kong Sevens
WHUFC.com
West Ham United made a strong start to their HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens
campaign on Saturday, taking five points from their three games to top their
group.
A young Hammers side are competing in the Hong Kong tournament and will now
take part in the top-tier Cup competition on Sunday.
Mark Phillips' team made the perfect start, defeating HKFC Captain's Select
1-0 in their opening match, with Djair Parfitt-Williams setting up Jaanai
Gordon for the only goal of the game.
A 0-0 draw with Chinese outfit Shanghai SIPG followed, leaving the Hammers
with a final-game decider against local team Kitchee.
The winners were guaranteed to top the group, although at is it turned out
West Ham only needed the point they gained thanks to Parfitt-Williams'
strike. The youngster also missed a penalty, but has impressed on the
tournament's opening day.
West Ham will return to action on Sunday when they take on Yau Lee League
Select in the Cup Quarter-Final.
Check whufc.com on Sunday for a full report from the second day of
competition.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diego ready for World Cup kick-off
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet is planning to do his country proud as Uruguay prepare to
kick-off their challenge at the FIFA U-20 World Cup finals in New Zealand.
The West Ham United midfielder is part of the La Celeste squad which begin
the tournament with a Group D clash with Serbia at Otago Stadium in Dunedin
on Sunday afternoon.
The South Americans have spent the past ten days in New Zealand
acclimatising and playing warm-up matches with Panama and Ukraine in
preparation for the tournament, which will also see them tackle Mexico and
Mali at the group stage.
Spanish-born Poyet, whose father Gus won the Copa America with Uruguay in
1995, is hoping to make his mark after committing to the country of his
ancestors earlier this year.
The young player moved to Montevideo with his family as a young child before
returning to England at the age of ten. Poyet came through the youth ranks
at Charlton Athletic and was capped by England at U16 and U17 levels before
opting to play for the nation his family still call home in February 2015,
making his debut in France the following month.
"We've been training hard every day, it's been a good couple of weeks and
the team is ready to start the tournament on Sunday," Poyet told whufc.com.
"The group is really strong and we hope to start off with a good result, be
it a win or a draw, and see where we go from there.
"It's been tough getting into the starting eleven due to the team already
being formed during the season when I wasn't able to leave West Ham and play
in the U-20 Copa America in January, but I am working hard and have played a
part in every game preparing for the World Cup, either having started or
coming on off the bench.
"The team is very positive and we hope to go a long way in the tournament."
Uruguay will be hoping to go one better than they did in 2013, when they
were defeated on penalties by France following a goalless draw in the final.
Selected matches from this year's tournament will be screened live on
British Eurosport and Eurosport 2.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First signing of the summer confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have completed the capture of former Birmingham number one
Darren Randolph on a free transfer.
The 28-year-old twice-capped Irish international effectively replaces Jussi
Jaaskelainen as back-up to current first choice Adrian, who also joined the
Hammers on a free transfer two season ago.
The news was confirmed this morning by Jack Sullivan whose father, co-owner
David, is now effectively acting as interim manager by driving the club's
player recruitment policy in conjunction with Tony Henry.
Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Randolph has signed for #whu. Look at the West Ham website later today for
more info.
12:38 PM - 30 May 2015
Randolph began his pro career in 2004 at Charlton, but made his league debut
whilst on loan at Accrington in a 2-1 defeat against Exeter in August 2005.
The following season - 2006/07 - he spent a short spell on loan at
Gillingham before returning to Charlton, where he made his first team debut
in a 2-2 draw at Liverpool on the final day of the season (with the Addicks
having already been relegated).
Once again he found first team opportunities at The Valley limited so the
second half of 2008/09 was spent on loan, this time at Bury for whom he made
14 appearances. It was a similar story the following season, when League One
Hereford came calling to offer him some first team experience.
With Charlton relegated to the third tier of English football, Randolph - 22
at the time - finally got him chance to stake a place in the first team in
the latter half of the 2009/10 campaign. But that summer he rejected a new
contract offer from Athletic in favour of Scottish Premier side Motherwell,
for whom he signed on a free transfer.
Iain Brown @iainbroon90
All the best @Randz587 at West Ham. Hopefully be no.1 before you know it.
Best Keeper i've seen at Fir Park.
3:00 PM - 30 May 2015
The 2010/11 season saw him play 48 times, gain his first experience of
European football in the qualifying stages of the Europa League and feature
in Scotland's FA Cup Final where he was on the beaten side, with Celtic
running out 3-0 winners on the day.
Now firmly established as 'Well's number one goalkeeper, Randolph played a
further 42 times in the following season as he helped his club to a
third-place finish behind the (former) big two of Celtic and Rangers.
They went one better in 2012/13, finishing runners-up behind the Bhoys, a
season in which the 6'1" stopper had his first taste of Champions League
football (although Motherwell were knocked out in the qualifying round by
Panathinaikos).
With his stock higher than ever, Randolph refused offers of a new contract
from Motherwell in order to sign a lucrative deal with Birmingham City.
Going straight into the first team, he was a virtual ever-present for the
two seasons he spent at St Andrews.
Sent off only once in his career (against Bolton in October last year),
Randolph has already made nearly 300 first team appearances in total for his
various clubs.
Tristan Harris @Tristanharris76
Gutted to be losing Darren Randolph. He's been a great keeper for us. It's
going to be tough to find a decent replacement. #bcfc #KRO
1:10 AM - 23 May 2015
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Football salutes Ferdinand after he retires from the game
Last Updated: 30/05/15 8:59pm
SSN
Tributes have been pouring in for former England captain Rio Ferdinand who
brought an end to his playing career on Saturday.
The 36-year-old former QPR, Manchester United, West Ham and Leeds defender
called time on a career that spanned almost 20 years and current and former
players have been paying their respects to an incredible career:
Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville lead the way with praise for his former
United team-mate on Twitter, saying: "Congratulations to @rioferdy5 on his
great career. Best I played with and best pairings I've seen with Vida/JT.
Covered me very well too!"
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans, who played alongside Ferdinand on
many occasions at Old Trafford,
said: "He was the modern day centre-back that everyone looked to. Training
every day and playing with him, he was someone I tried to replicate in my
own game.
"I had the opportunity to play alongside Rio for a lot of years and he was
someone who had the ability to make the game seem so easy.
"Anyone who's played with him would tell you that.
"He transmitted that to the rest of the team and he was a great character in
the dressing room.
"More than anything he was a winner and a leader. His trophy record reflects
that"
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar said: "Great guy,
awesome centre half and honour to have been playing with @rioferdy5 for 6
trophy full years! #manutd
Current United keeper David de Gea added his tribute saying: "@rioferdy5
you've always helped me. I'll never forget. Keep mentoring outside the
pitch. Good luck my friend!"
Former United team-mate, Michael Carrick chipped in with: "An incredible
career. What a player! Quite simply the best CB I've come across. Another
gear. Had the lot @rioferdy5"
And former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher added:
"A great career comes to an end today with the retirement of @rioferdy5
played in U18/21's as well as the full squad together. #Top player."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons will pay whatever it takes for top boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham will pay whatever it takes to get the highest quality boss
possible.
The club has diverted a couple of millions from the player to the managerial
salary budget to ensure they get the highest quality candidate available.
But there's still a feeling of frustration and disappointment that Rafa
Benitez was stolen away by Real Madid of all clubs when he was all but
signed, sealed and delivered as the next Irons boss.
A well placed insider told ClaretandHugh: "There's real frustration among
some fans who believe we should have had things tied up by now but Rafa was
within a couple of hours of signing.
"Now we are having to reassess all the options but one thing the club won't
worry about is wages. They can satisfy any boss on that level which is why
they are being very choosy and careful.
"They have no doubt they will bring in a top quality candidate – salary
won't be an issue for the right man."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons hard on Jenkinson's trail
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Carl Jenkinson remains very much a 'live' target for the Hammers despite
little encouragement from Arsenal the player is for sale.
FA Cup-winning manager Arsene Wenger will decide soon whether the player
will be allowed out on loan again this summer having claimed he's not for
sale.
But that hasn't deterred the Irons from continuing talks with the north
London club and agents.
And ClaretandHugh was told exclusively this evening (Sat): "The club has
about ten targets and Jenkinson is very much one of them.
"Every day week attempts are made to progress the deals. But with clubs,
players and agents involved it inevitably takes time."
Obviously the arrival of a new manager could mean a change of direction on
some targets but the Arsenal under-21 international is seen as a player any
manger would be pleased to inherit.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Excited Randolph moves in
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
New Hammer Darren Randolph has spoken of his excitement at joining the club.
The former Birmingham keeper made 45 appearances for City last season but
was ready to play understdudy to Adrian when the Irons moved in.
Speaking to the official West Ham website he said: 'My initial reaction to
joining West Ham is excitement.
'It was a tough decision turning down Birmingham's offer of a new contract
because of the second part of the season we had and the team we had built.
'But I felt like I couldn't turn down the chance of joining a club like
West Ham. Everybody wants to try and get to the top of their profession and
I'm no different.'
'I started at Charlton when I was 16 and left when I was 23,' he explained.
'It has been a long journey to try get back to the Premier League and a
great achievement to be able to do so. It is where players all around the
world would like to be.
'I've played for the last five seasons so I would like to think I can come
in and challenge for a place in the team. Adrian's had a fantastic season so
it is going be tough, but it is a challenge I look forward to.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons bosses refuse to give up on Klopp
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham United still have Jurgen Klopp and early favourite David Moyes in
their immediate frame and won't make further moves on other managers until
they know both are total non starters.
Our picture show the banner unfurled by grateful fans to the German on his
last appearance before them recently.
The Hammers co owners have regularly declared they are determined to get the
best and highest quality manager possible and refuse to move on a back-up
list until they know the best around are "otherwise engaged."
Klopp has been approached through middle men and as we have regularly
reported remains a target.
And today the Telegraph reports that although Moyes has repeatedly stated
that he wants to stay at Real Sociedad West Ham have not completely given up
hope of hiring him.
Klopp took charge of Borussia Dortmund for the final time last weekend but
made it clear he had no job lined up.
And the newspaper confirms our reports that the Irons were "hugely
unfortunate" when the Rafa Benitez deal fell through when received an offer
to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
It means the Irons will now wait on Klopp, Moyes and even Carlo Ancelotti
who could postpone surgery before turning to the likes of Marcelo Bielsa,
Unai Emery, who has just retained the Europa League with Seville, former
Besiktas coach Slaven Bilic and Swansea City manager Garry Monk.
The Telegraph confirm: "Several of those candidates have already been
sounded out through intermediaries but none have been offered the job as
yet."
And significantly they declare: "West Ham have not set themselves a deadline
to make an appointment but want to do so within the next two weeks as the
club begins to re-shape its squad for next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG happy for Jack and 'Bazza'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
David Gold could hardly be more pleased to see former Hammer Jack Collison
team up with one of his best pals in the game – Barry Fry.
Gold and Fry have remained great down down the years despite the
Peterborough Director of Football being sacked by him soon after the Davids
took over at Birmingham City.
Collison has signed a one-year contract with the League One club as reported
by BBC Sport and Fry tweeting his best wishes to the midfielder said: "He's
one of the nicest men in football.
"Barry and myself have remained very close friends down the years and I
really hope the move woks out for both parties."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Proud Bilic eyes next job
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham managerial candidate Slaven Bilic has spoken of his Besiktas pride
after taking charge of his final game at the club.
And he has made it clear he will continue his coaching career outside of
Turkey with the Irons still very much a live opportunity for the Croat.
Besiktas' Super Lig season came to an end on Friday with a 2-1 win over
Genclerbirligi – and Bilic announced after the game that he would leave
after his side finished third.
"It is nice to finish the season with a win," he told the club's official
website. "I have said so many times that I have enjoyed every second of
these two seasons at Besiktas.
"This club will always stay in my heart. I'm so proud of everything we've
done here.
"In the near future, I will not be in this country."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former West Ham star retires from football
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Former Hammer Rio Ferdinand has announced his retirement from professional
football after reading out a statement live on BT Sport.
Earlier this month, the defender's wife Rebecca Ellison died from cancer and
earlier this week he was released by QPR.
1978: Born November 8, Peckham.
1992: Joins West Ham youth Academy, scouted by Frank Lampard Senior.
1995: Turns professional with West Ham.
1996: May – Makes West Ham debut as substitute for Cottee in draw with
Sheffield Wednesday.
1997: February – Scores first West Ham goal in defeat at Blackburn. November
– Becomes youngest defender to play for England when he makes debut against
Cameroon at Wembley.
1998: Named in Glenn Hoddle's England World Cup squad but does not play at
tournament in France but named Hammer of the year at West Ham.
2000: Left out of the England squad for Euro 2000 by Kevin Keegan. Makes
British record £18million in move to Leeds in November.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Head of recruitment to join Leeds
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Martyn Glover, West Ham United's head of player recruitment, is set to take
up the same role at Leeds United according to the Yorkshire evening post.
Leeds are said to have approached Glover after pulling out of a deal to
appoint Norwich City scout Steve Head as their new head of recruitment
earlier this week. Before moving to West Ham, Glover worked as head of
recruitment at Blackburn Rovers under Allardyce.
Seen very much as Sam's man, he appears to be set to follow Teddy Sheringham
and Ian Hendon out of the door as Allardyce's back room staff are disbanded.
Last Summer West Ham appointed former Everton and Sunderland chief scout
Tony Henry to a new role as 'recruitment director' reporting directly to the
board. Glover now appears surplus to requirements at West Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Republic of Ireland
international goalkeeper Darren Randolph.
The 28-year-old will arrive on a free transfer on 1 July after his contract
with Championship club Birmingham City expired, and will provide long-term
competition for first-team stopper Adrián.
Randolph started 45 league games for the Blues in 2014/15, keeping 12 clean
sheets and producing a string of outstanding performances as Birmingham
recovered from a horrendous start to climb to a final position of tenth.
The Bray-born stopper began with Irish junior club Ardmore Rovers before
moving to English football with Charlton Athletic at the age of 16 in 2005.
Since then, he has chalked up nearly 300 career appearances.
After loan spells with Accrington Stanley and Gillingham, Randolph made his
Premier League debut for the Addicks in a 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield
in May 2007.
Following further loan spells with Bury and Hereford United, Randolph moved
north of the border to join Scottish Premier League club Motherwell, where
he made his debut in a UEFA Europa League tie with Norwegian side Aalesund
in July 2010 and immediately established himself as the No1.
A fantastic debut season in Scotland saw Motherwell reach the 2011 Scottish
Cup final, while he also broke John Ruddy's club record for clean sheets in
a single season.
Randolph's outstanding form and consistency saw him voted into the PFA
Scotland Team of the Year in both 2011/12 and 2012/13, helping the Steelmen
to finish second in the Scottish Premier League in the latter.
The goalkeeper's form at Fir Park caught the eye of then-Ireland manager
Giovanni Trappatoni, who called him up for the first time in autumn 2011. A
senior international debut arrived in a friendly against Oman at Fulham's
Craven Cottage in September 2012, when he lined up alongside West Ham's Joey
O'Brien.
Randolph could add to that tally soon, as he is in the provisional Ireland
squad for upcoming international matches with England and Scotland later
this month.
Summer 2013 saw the Irish son of former American basketball player Ed
Randolph, who played for Irish Premier League club UCD Marian in the late
1980s, move back to England with Birmingham.
At St Andrews, he missed just one league match in the past two seasons,
attracting attention from Barclays Premier League clubs.
Randolph joins the long list of Irish players to have represented the
Hammers, including Liam Brady (1986-90), Gary Breen (2002-03), Noel Cantwell
(1952-60), Johnny Carroll (1948-49), Clive Clarke (2005-06), David Connolly
(2003-04), Noel Dwyer (1958-60), Ray Houghton (1982), Chris Hughton
(1990-92), Robbie Keane (2011), Fred Kearns (1949-54), David Kelly
(1988-90), Danny McGowan (1948-54), Tommy Moroney (1947-53), Billy Neville
(1957-58), Frank O'Farrell (1950-57), Joey O'Brien (2011-present) and
Charlie Turner (1937-39).
*You can follow West Ham's newest signing Darren Randolph on Twitter at
@Randz587.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Randolph - The First Interview
WHUFc.com
Darren Randolph has spoken of his 'excitement' after agreeing to join West
Ham United this summer. The Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper
will link up with the Hammers on 1 July, after his contract with
Championship club Birmingham City has expired. The 28-year-old has been a
first-team regular with both Birmingham and former side Motherwell for the
past five seasons, and is determined to push Adrian all the way for a
starting place at the Boleyn Ground.
In his first interview with whufc.com, Randolph is looking forward to
returning to the Boleyn Ground, ten years after making his top-flight debut
as a teenager with Charlton Athletic.
"My initial reaction to joining West Ham is excitement," said the Bray-born
stopper. "It was a tough decision turning down Birmingham's offer of a new
contract because of the second part of the season we had and the team we had
built.
"They are a great group of lads and staff but I felt like I couldn't turn
down the chance of joining a club like West Ham. Everybody wants to try and
get to the top of their profession and I'm no different."
For Randolph, who has totalled 289 senior club appearances during his
career, signing for West Ham completes a journey back to the Barclays
Premier League that included stops in Scotland and England's second city.
Now, he wants to establish himself at the highest level, but knows
dislodging the Hammers' popular Spanish goalkeeper from the starting XI is
going to be no easy task.
"I started at Charlton when I was 16 and left when I was 23," he explained.
"It has been a long journey to try get back to the Premier League and a
great achievement to be able to do so. It is where players all around the
world would like to be.
"I've played for the last five seasons so I would like to think I can come
in and challenge for a place in the team. Adrian's had a fantastic season so
it is going be tough, but it is a challenge I look forward to."
Having signed for West Ham, Randolph is determined to enjoy being part of
two historic seasons, bidding farewell to the Boleyn Ground before saying
hello to the new Stadium in Stratford.
"It is definitely an exciting time to be part of West Ham with the changes
coming up," he confirmed. "So, hopefully we will have a memorable last
season at Upton Park and then onto the Olympic Stadium to kick on again!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Randolph – Ten Fast Facts
WHUFc.com
Ten Fast Facts you might not know about West Ham United's new goalkeeper
Darren Randolph!
Darren Randolph's father Ed Randolph played basketball for UCD Marian and
was one of the first American imports to the Irish Basketball League. Darren
himself is a former Irish basketball international, so he is clearly good
with his hands!
Darren Randolph was born in the seaside town of Bray, County Wicklow,
situated 12 miles south of the Republic of Ireland's capital Dublin
Darren Randolph attended St. Cronan's Boys National School in Bray, which
also names WWE wrestler Prince Devitt among its former pupils.
Darren Randolph later attended Presentation College in Bray, which was also
attended by Middlesex and Ireland cricketer Ed Joyce and former Ireland
Rugby international Reggie Corrigan.
Darren Randolph has represented Republic of Ireland at U15, U16, U17, U18,
U19, U21, B and senior levels!
Darren Randolph made his senior professional debut during a loan spell with
Conference South club Welling United in 2004.
If he was not a footballer, Darren Randolph would like to be a basketball
player or a Formula 1 driver.
Darren Randolph names the American city of Miami as his favourite holiday
destination.
Darren Randolph names Italy and former Manchester United striker Guiseppe
Rossi as his toughest-ever opponent.
Darren Randolph names former Charlton Athletic teammate Paolo Di Canio as
the best player he has ever lined up alongside.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers make strong start in Hong Kong Sevens
WHUFC.com
West Ham United made a strong start to their HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens
campaign on Saturday, taking five points from their three games to top their
group.
A young Hammers side are competing in the Hong Kong tournament and will now
take part in the top-tier Cup competition on Sunday.
Mark Phillips' team made the perfect start, defeating HKFC Captain's Select
1-0 in their opening match, with Djair Parfitt-Williams setting up Jaanai
Gordon for the only goal of the game.
A 0-0 draw with Chinese outfit Shanghai SIPG followed, leaving the Hammers
with a final-game decider against local team Kitchee.
The winners were guaranteed to top the group, although at is it turned out
West Ham only needed the point they gained thanks to Parfitt-Williams'
strike. The youngster also missed a penalty, but has impressed on the
tournament's opening day.
West Ham will return to action on Sunday when they take on Yau Lee League
Select in the Cup Quarter-Final.
Check whufc.com on Sunday for a full report from the second day of
competition.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diego ready for World Cup kick-off
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet is planning to do his country proud as Uruguay prepare to
kick-off their challenge at the FIFA U-20 World Cup finals in New Zealand.
The West Ham United midfielder is part of the La Celeste squad which begin
the tournament with a Group D clash with Serbia at Otago Stadium in Dunedin
on Sunday afternoon.
The South Americans have spent the past ten days in New Zealand
acclimatising and playing warm-up matches with Panama and Ukraine in
preparation for the tournament, which will also see them tackle Mexico and
Mali at the group stage.
Spanish-born Poyet, whose father Gus won the Copa America with Uruguay in
1995, is hoping to make his mark after committing to the country of his
ancestors earlier this year.
The young player moved to Montevideo with his family as a young child before
returning to England at the age of ten. Poyet came through the youth ranks
at Charlton Athletic and was capped by England at U16 and U17 levels before
opting to play for the nation his family still call home in February 2015,
making his debut in France the following month.
"We've been training hard every day, it's been a good couple of weeks and
the team is ready to start the tournament on Sunday," Poyet told whufc.com.
"The group is really strong and we hope to start off with a good result, be
it a win or a draw, and see where we go from there.
"It's been tough getting into the starting eleven due to the team already
being formed during the season when I wasn't able to leave West Ham and play
in the U-20 Copa America in January, but I am working hard and have played a
part in every game preparing for the World Cup, either having started or
coming on off the bench.
"The team is very positive and we hope to go a long way in the tournament."
Uruguay will be hoping to go one better than they did in 2013, when they
were defeated on penalties by France following a goalless draw in the final.
Selected matches from this year's tournament will be screened live on
British Eurosport and Eurosport 2.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First signing of the summer confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have completed the capture of former Birmingham number one
Darren Randolph on a free transfer.
The 28-year-old twice-capped Irish international effectively replaces Jussi
Jaaskelainen as back-up to current first choice Adrian, who also joined the
Hammers on a free transfer two season ago.
The news was confirmed this morning by Jack Sullivan whose father, co-owner
David, is now effectively acting as interim manager by driving the club's
player recruitment policy in conjunction with Tony Henry.
Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Randolph has signed for #whu. Look at the West Ham website later today for
more info.
12:38 PM - 30 May 2015
Randolph began his pro career in 2004 at Charlton, but made his league debut
whilst on loan at Accrington in a 2-1 defeat against Exeter in August 2005.
The following season - 2006/07 - he spent a short spell on loan at
Gillingham before returning to Charlton, where he made his first team debut
in a 2-2 draw at Liverpool on the final day of the season (with the Addicks
having already been relegated).
Once again he found first team opportunities at The Valley limited so the
second half of 2008/09 was spent on loan, this time at Bury for whom he made
14 appearances. It was a similar story the following season, when League One
Hereford came calling to offer him some first team experience.
With Charlton relegated to the third tier of English football, Randolph - 22
at the time - finally got him chance to stake a place in the first team in
the latter half of the 2009/10 campaign. But that summer he rejected a new
contract offer from Athletic in favour of Scottish Premier side Motherwell,
for whom he signed on a free transfer.
Iain Brown @iainbroon90
All the best @Randz587 at West Ham. Hopefully be no.1 before you know it.
Best Keeper i've seen at Fir Park.
3:00 PM - 30 May 2015
The 2010/11 season saw him play 48 times, gain his first experience of
European football in the qualifying stages of the Europa League and feature
in Scotland's FA Cup Final where he was on the beaten side, with Celtic
running out 3-0 winners on the day.
Now firmly established as 'Well's number one goalkeeper, Randolph played a
further 42 times in the following season as he helped his club to a
third-place finish behind the (former) big two of Celtic and Rangers.
They went one better in 2012/13, finishing runners-up behind the Bhoys, a
season in which the 6'1" stopper had his first taste of Champions League
football (although Motherwell were knocked out in the qualifying round by
Panathinaikos).
With his stock higher than ever, Randolph refused offers of a new contract
from Motherwell in order to sign a lucrative deal with Birmingham City.
Going straight into the first team, he was a virtual ever-present for the
two seasons he spent at St Andrews.
Sent off only once in his career (against Bolton in October last year),
Randolph has already made nearly 300 first team appearances in total for his
various clubs.
Tristan Harris @Tristanharris76
Gutted to be losing Darren Randolph. He's been a great keeper for us. It's
going to be tough to find a decent replacement. #bcfc #KRO
1:10 AM - 23 May 2015
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Football salutes Ferdinand after he retires from the game
Last Updated: 30/05/15 8:59pm
SSN
Tributes have been pouring in for former England captain Rio Ferdinand who
brought an end to his playing career on Saturday.
The 36-year-old former QPR, Manchester United, West Ham and Leeds defender
called time on a career that spanned almost 20 years and current and former
players have been paying their respects to an incredible career:
Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville lead the way with praise for his former
United team-mate on Twitter, saying: "Congratulations to @rioferdy5 on his
great career. Best I played with and best pairings I've seen with Vida/JT.
Covered me very well too!"
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans, who played alongside Ferdinand on
many occasions at Old Trafford,
said: "He was the modern day centre-back that everyone looked to. Training
every day and playing with him, he was someone I tried to replicate in my
own game.
"I had the opportunity to play alongside Rio for a lot of years and he was
someone who had the ability to make the game seem so easy.
"Anyone who's played with him would tell you that.
"He transmitted that to the rest of the team and he was a great character in
the dressing room.
"More than anything he was a winner and a leader. His trophy record reflects
that"
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar said: "Great guy,
awesome centre half and honour to have been playing with @rioferdy5 for 6
trophy full years! #manutd
Current United keeper David de Gea added his tribute saying: "@rioferdy5
you've always helped me. I'll never forget. Keep mentoring outside the
pitch. Good luck my friend!"
Former United team-mate, Michael Carrick chipped in with: "An incredible
career. What a player! Quite simply the best CB I've come across. Another
gear. Had the lot @rioferdy5"
And former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher added:
"A great career comes to an end today with the retirement of @rioferdy5
played in U18/21's as well as the full squad together. #Top player."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons will pay whatever it takes for top boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham will pay whatever it takes to get the highest quality boss
possible.
The club has diverted a couple of millions from the player to the managerial
salary budget to ensure they get the highest quality candidate available.
But there's still a feeling of frustration and disappointment that Rafa
Benitez was stolen away by Real Madid of all clubs when he was all but
signed, sealed and delivered as the next Irons boss.
A well placed insider told ClaretandHugh: "There's real frustration among
some fans who believe we should have had things tied up by now but Rafa was
within a couple of hours of signing.
"Now we are having to reassess all the options but one thing the club won't
worry about is wages. They can satisfy any boss on that level which is why
they are being very choosy and careful.
"They have no doubt they will bring in a top quality candidate – salary
won't be an issue for the right man."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons hard on Jenkinson's trail
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Carl Jenkinson remains very much a 'live' target for the Hammers despite
little encouragement from Arsenal the player is for sale.
FA Cup-winning manager Arsene Wenger will decide soon whether the player
will be allowed out on loan again this summer having claimed he's not for
sale.
But that hasn't deterred the Irons from continuing talks with the north
London club and agents.
And ClaretandHugh was told exclusively this evening (Sat): "The club has
about ten targets and Jenkinson is very much one of them.
"Every day week attempts are made to progress the deals. But with clubs,
players and agents involved it inevitably takes time."
Obviously the arrival of a new manager could mean a change of direction on
some targets but the Arsenal under-21 international is seen as a player any
manger would be pleased to inherit.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Excited Randolph moves in
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
New Hammer Darren Randolph has spoken of his excitement at joining the club.
The former Birmingham keeper made 45 appearances for City last season but
was ready to play understdudy to Adrian when the Irons moved in.
Speaking to the official West Ham website he said: 'My initial reaction to
joining West Ham is excitement.
'It was a tough decision turning down Birmingham's offer of a new contract
because of the second part of the season we had and the team we had built.
'But I felt like I couldn't turn down the chance of joining a club like
West Ham. Everybody wants to try and get to the top of their profession and
I'm no different.'
'I started at Charlton when I was 16 and left when I was 23,' he explained.
'It has been a long journey to try get back to the Premier League and a
great achievement to be able to do so. It is where players all around the
world would like to be.
'I've played for the last five seasons so I would like to think I can come
in and challenge for a place in the team. Adrian's had a fantastic season so
it is going be tough, but it is a challenge I look forward to.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons bosses refuse to give up on Klopp
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham United still have Jurgen Klopp and early favourite David Moyes in
their immediate frame and won't make further moves on other managers until
they know both are total non starters.
Our picture show the banner unfurled by grateful fans to the German on his
last appearance before them recently.
The Hammers co owners have regularly declared they are determined to get the
best and highest quality manager possible and refuse to move on a back-up
list until they know the best around are "otherwise engaged."
Klopp has been approached through middle men and as we have regularly
reported remains a target.
And today the Telegraph reports that although Moyes has repeatedly stated
that he wants to stay at Real Sociedad West Ham have not completely given up
hope of hiring him.
Klopp took charge of Borussia Dortmund for the final time last weekend but
made it clear he had no job lined up.
And the newspaper confirms our reports that the Irons were "hugely
unfortunate" when the Rafa Benitez deal fell through when received an offer
to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
It means the Irons will now wait on Klopp, Moyes and even Carlo Ancelotti
who could postpone surgery before turning to the likes of Marcelo Bielsa,
Unai Emery, who has just retained the Europa League with Seville, former
Besiktas coach Slaven Bilic and Swansea City manager Garry Monk.
The Telegraph confirm: "Several of those candidates have already been
sounded out through intermediaries but none have been offered the job as
yet."
And significantly they declare: "West Ham have not set themselves a deadline
to make an appointment but want to do so within the next two weeks as the
club begins to re-shape its squad for next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG happy for Jack and 'Bazza'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
David Gold could hardly be more pleased to see former Hammer Jack Collison
team up with one of his best pals in the game – Barry Fry.
Gold and Fry have remained great down down the years despite the
Peterborough Director of Football being sacked by him soon after the Davids
took over at Birmingham City.
Collison has signed a one-year contract with the League One club as reported
by BBC Sport and Fry tweeting his best wishes to the midfielder said: "He's
one of the nicest men in football.
"Barry and myself have remained very close friends down the years and I
really hope the move woks out for both parties."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Proud Bilic eyes next job
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham managerial candidate Slaven Bilic has spoken of his Besiktas pride
after taking charge of his final game at the club.
And he has made it clear he will continue his coaching career outside of
Turkey with the Irons still very much a live opportunity for the Croat.
Besiktas' Super Lig season came to an end on Friday with a 2-1 win over
Genclerbirligi – and Bilic announced after the game that he would leave
after his side finished third.
"It is nice to finish the season with a win," he told the club's official
website. "I have said so many times that I have enjoyed every second of
these two seasons at Besiktas.
"This club will always stay in my heart. I'm so proud of everything we've
done here.
"In the near future, I will not be in this country."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former West Ham star retires from football
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Former Hammer Rio Ferdinand has announced his retirement from professional
football after reading out a statement live on BT Sport.
Earlier this month, the defender's wife Rebecca Ellison died from cancer and
earlier this week he was released by QPR.
1978: Born November 8, Peckham.
1992: Joins West Ham youth Academy, scouted by Frank Lampard Senior.
1995: Turns professional with West Ham.
1996: May – Makes West Ham debut as substitute for Cottee in draw with
Sheffield Wednesday.
1997: February – Scores first West Ham goal in defeat at Blackburn. November
– Becomes youngest defender to play for England when he makes debut against
Cameroon at Wembley.
1998: Named in Glenn Hoddle's England World Cup squad but does not play at
tournament in France but named Hammer of the year at West Ham.
2000: Left out of the England squad for Euro 2000 by Kevin Keegan. Makes
British record £18million in move to Leeds in November.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Head of recruitment to join Leeds
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 30, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Martyn Glover, West Ham United's head of player recruitment, is set to take
up the same role at Leeds United according to the Yorkshire evening post.
Leeds are said to have approached Glover after pulling out of a deal to
appoint Norwich City scout Steve Head as their new head of recruitment
earlier this week. Before moving to West Ham, Glover worked as head of
recruitment at Blackburn Rovers under Allardyce.
Seen very much as Sam's man, he appears to be set to follow Teddy Sheringham
and Ian Hendon out of the door as Allardyce's back room staff are disbanded.
Last Summer West Ham appointed former Everton and Sunderland chief scout
Tony Henry to a new role as 'recruitment director' reporting directly to the
board. Glover now appears surplus to requirements at West Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 30
Daily WHUFC News - 30th May 2015
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
Normally the end of the season offers a few days to relax and recharge the batteries before thoughts turn to the following campaign.
This year, however, things couldn't be more different. Our decision to part ways with Sam has meant that we now have the huge, but incredibly exciting, challenge of appointing a new man to take us into the final season at the Boleyn Ground and into the new Stadium.
I should add here that our parting with Sam was one of the most amicable I've had in football. I had a good chat with him on the phone last Saturday and we thanked each other for the work we've done together and the progress we've seen at the Club over the past four years. I am sure it won't be too long before we see Sam back in the Premier League and we wish him all the best, except when he's facing West Ham of course!
So back to looking at the future, I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our Club forwards. It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one.
Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right.
What is clear from our discussions so far is that this job is attracting names it wouldn't have done five years ago. When you combine our move to one of the best stadiums in Europe in 16 months' time with the Board's ambitious vision and significant transfer budget you have an extremely exciting prospect for the right man.
In addition, I continue to work with our player recruitment team to identify players to improve the squad. We hope to announce our first signing in the next 24 hours and follow that up with a big name in the next two-three weeks. We will bring you any news of new signings on whufc.com first so please do keep checking back here to find out first.
So in summary, I want to appoint a manager you all feel excited by and one that will honour the Club's traditions and history. With your support, an ambitious managerand the Board's drive and commitment I can see the next few years being game-changing for our Club.
Thank you for your continued support.
Come on you Irons!
David Sullivan
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Europa League preparations underway!
WHUFC.com
Preparations for West Ham United's participation in the 2015/16 UEFA Europa League are already well underway at the Boleyn Ground.
With the prospect of a first qualifying round tie at home to kick-off the final season at the Hammers' historic home, head groundsman Dougie Robertson and his team have begun the six-week process of relaying the pitch.
Robertson explained how the hallowed turf will be replaced and ready for use should West Ham be drawn at home in the first leg, which is scheduled for Thursday 2 July.
"We have had to renovate the pitch early because of the Club's potential participation in the UEFA Europa League, which has now been confirmed," said Robertson, who has been part of the Club's groundstaff for nearly two decades. "This is the earliest that we have started this process since the summer of 2002, when the pitch was rebuilt.
"The first process was to strip the vegetation away from the surface, to help expose the Desso fibres and we then finished that process by the more traditional method of raking it out.
"We then spread sand across the pitch and verti-drained to alleviate compaction and assist water removal – a process which we completed at the end of last week."
Robertson and his team usually begin this activity following the end of the annual pitch events in June, but the Club's qualification for European competition via the Fair Play League regrettably meant these events had to be cancelled and the pitch renovation brought forward to before the end of the 2014/15 season.
"We always run with a tight schedule because of the pitch events and ideally we would have longer than six weeks, but this time of year provides us with perfect growing conditions and we will be ready for 2 July," Robertson confirmed.
"The pitch has now been seeded and the next stages of the process will see us cut the new grass for first time at the end of this week, forcing the growth through so that the playing surface is ready for the start of the Europa League."
Should West Ham progress in the Europa League, the Hammers will play no fewer than three competitive home matches before the start of the 2015/16 Barclays Premier League season on Saturday 8 August.
With a potential ten months of football to be played during the historic final season at the Boleyn Ground, Robertson and his team will be working morning, noon and night to ensure the pitch is fit and ready whenever it is needed.
"It is potentially the longest season I have known since I have been at the Club," he confirmed. "We were in the UEFA Cup under Alan Pardew in 2006 and that was an exciting time for the fans, but it does make for a very long season!
"I've spoken to counterparts at other clubs who are well-versed with the Europa League and Thursday/Sunday fixtures and that obviously means my hard-working staff will be in every weekend for the foreseeable future."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Potts pays tribute to Hammers
WHUFc.com
Dan Potts has bid an emotional farewell to West Ham United on leaving the Club after 12 years in a Claret and Blue shirt.
The 21-year-old joined the Hammers at the age of nine and, after bravely winning a life-threatening battle with leukaemia as a schoolboy, graduated from the Academy of Football and went on to make 13 first-team appearances.
Potts will join League Two club Luton Town this summer, where he will play under West Ham fan John Still and alongside former Hammers teammate Pelly Ruddock, and is looking forward to the prospect of playing regular senior football.
In the meantime, however, the son of West Ham legend Steve Potts, has paid tribute to the staff, players and supporters who made his time at the Boleyn Ground so enjoyable.
"West Ham has been a massive part of my life, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well," said Potts, who captained the youth team and Development Squad regularly before making his first-team debut at 17 in December 2011. "I've been brought up around the Club and have a lot of fond memories and I will never forget my time here. West Ham has made me the person I am today.
"It goes without saying that my debut against Barnsley at Upton Park was pretty special, and to play away against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Premier League was also amazing. There are some other moments that I can't really remember, like when I suffered a concussion playing at Arsenal a couple of years ago!
Potts was part of a close-knit year-group that came through the ranks at the Academy of Football, with the likes of Elliot Lee, George Moncur, Blair Turgott, Matthias Fanimo and the late Dylan Tombides forming a special bond that will never be broken.
"I have made friends for life at this Club, 100 per cent. There are a lot of good people at the Club, not just the players, but the staff are also top-drawer and top people. You wouldn't expect anything else from West Ham, because it is based around good people. I've made a lot of friends for life, that's for sure.
"It's been a memorable time and the Club will always be in my heart for various reasons. The Club has always been there when I've been in times of need, on and off the pitch.
"Being around the Club as a whole, it's going in the right direction with the stadium move and all that, so it will be great to see them do well and be in the top half of the Premier League, where they belong.
"No-one deserves that more than the fans, because they are a massive part of the Club and I am one of them. You won't find a better set of fans.
"The Club will always be in my heart and it's a sad day, but it's come to a time when I have to think of myself and I want to be playing. I'll always appreciate what they have done for me I'll never forget it."
After an injury-affected 2014/15 season, Potts is now embarking on a new adventure with Luton, where he hopes to make his mark by becoming a first-team regular and help the Hatters to climb the Football League ladder.
"It's been a tough time, but I know I am ready and it has got to the stage where I need to be playing week-in, week-out and from a personal point of view, that's the decision I've made," he explained.
"When Luton approached me and asked me to look at the club, it felt right and felt that the club was going in the right direction, so I hope I can kick on with them and move up the leagues."
West Ham United would like to thank Dan for his hard work, commitment and passion over the past 12 years and wish him every success in his future career.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jack's back at The Posh
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers midfielder Jack Collison has signed a one-year contract with League One club Peterborough United.
The 26-year-old Welsh international has been without a club since being released by Championship side Ipswich Town last season but is back in the game having landed a contract with The Posh.
Jack collison ✔@Jcollison31
Very excited to have signed for @theposhdotcom .. Looking forward to working with @DaveRobertson11 & @grantmccann11 . Roll on next season ⚽️
8:31 PM - 29 May 2015
Collison, speaking via Peterborough's website said: "It feels a bit like a fairytale because I started my career at Peterborough in the Academy so it is great to be back here.
"I knew the manager [Dave Robertson] back then. I have been speaking with him and I believe in his plans for this football club. The manager has played a massive part in my decision to sign here.
"I had a great time with West Ham and have been working extremely hard day and night to get myself ready for a new challenge this summer. I am looking forward to meeting the boys in the dressing room in pre-season and getting out there on the pitch."
And Collison's new boss Robertson added: "I have been speaking with Jack for a number of weeks now and I am delighted that he has agreed to join the club and bought into what we are trying to achieve here.
"He brings a lot of experience and has obviously played at the highest level both with West Ham United and with Wales.
"He has scored some big goals and he fits into what we are looking for as coaches. I believe in Jack, I know what he can bring to this football club and myself and Grant [McCann] are looking forward to working with him."
Jack collison ✔@Jcollison31
Thanks for all the messages... Can't wait to get started now.. I have missed it so much ❤️⚽️
8:32 PM - 29 May 2015
Collison - who spent nine years at West Ham before leaving last summer - was also a double-winner at last night's KUMB Awards, where he won the Most Missed and Podcast Guest of the Year categories.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gone - the XI who are no more
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
11 players have been released by West Ham United, after their contracts came to an end.
The club have announced that first team pros Jussi Jaaskelainen, Carlton Cole, Guy Demel and Nene will not be offered new deals.
They are joined by Under 21s Kieran Bywater, Sean Maguire, Paul McCallum and, most notably, Dan Potts, whose father Steve currently manages the Development squad.
From the Academy, scholars Jerry Amoo, Kieran Bailey and Taylor Tombides - younger brother of Dylan, who sadly died last year - have also been released.
Nene, who moved to London in January but barely featured under Sam Allardyce admitted he was disappointed by the lack of opportunities at West Ham - but felt that he could still play at the highest level for another three years, at least.
"I came to West Ham very motivated and before long was completely adapted, training and playing at a high level, but ended up having few opportunities", he said via his personal website.
"When the season ended I talked to the owners of West Ham and decided it would be best to continue my career at another club.
"I never had physical problems and injuries were rare throughout my career. So I know I can keep playing at a high level for at most three or four seasons. I'll examine any proposals that arise, both in Europe and with Brazilian clubs."
Meanwhile Cole, who enjoyed two spells at West Ham totalling nine years penned a heartfelt farewell letter to the club's supporters.
"I've been at West Ham United for quite a long time and I've enjoyed myself here, with all the ups and downs, the heartaches and everything that came along with it," he wrote.
"At the same time, I've grown from being a boy to a man here and everybody has treated me like a part of the family.
"It is heart-warming to know that I have got such support and that I have done my fair share for the club and been part of the history as well, which is very important for me. I'm very happy to have been a part of it and, wherever my future may lie, West Ham will always have a special place in my heart.
"It means a lot to me to have been at West Ham for so long. I wouldn't like to use the word hero, but I have played my part. A load of players have come and gone, but I've stayed around and enjoyed every minute of it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New deal for Hammers target on the cards
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Southend United's play-off hero Daniel Bentley could be set to extend his stay at Roots Hall, despite interest from West Ham.
The 21-year-old goalkeeper was the star of the show as his save in the penalty shootout at Wembley last weekend propelled the Shrimpers to League One, at the expense of Wycombe Wanderers.
And that success has led to Southend preparing a new deal for one of the most highly-rated goalkeepers outside the Premier League.
"It is my understanding that I will be offered a new contract," Bentley told the Echo. "My agent and I will be sitting down with the club to talk about it all and I'm happy to do that.
"I know there has been a little bit of speculation about my future but I'm very happy with what we've achieved this year and I enjoy being a Southend player."
Bentley has been linked with a move to the Boleyn Ground since last summer, when West Ham first considered making a move for the Wickford-born youngster.
With Jussi Jaaskelainen having left the club with his contract having expired, a vacancy for the number two spot at the club now exists.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First signing of the summer imminent, says Sullivan
KUNB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan has revealed that West Ham expect to make their first signing of the summer within the next 24 hours.
Sullivan, speaking to supporters via the club's website this afternoon (Friday_ revealed that despite having no manager in place, the club hope to announce their first arrival of the close season imminently.
"I continue to work with our player recruitment team to identify players to improve the squad," he said.
"We hope to announce our first signing in the next 24 hours and follow that up with a big name in the next two-three weeks. "
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Sullivan speaks on manager search
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Co-owner David Sullivan has given an update on the search for a replacement for Sam Allardyce.
60-year-old Allardyce parted company with West Ham last week after four years at the helm, since when a number of the club's top targets - including Rafa Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti - have rejected overtures from the Hammers.
However Sullivan, speaking via the club's website this afternoon (Friday) insisted that he was spending "every waking minute" to find a suitable replacement.
"I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our club forwards," he said.
"It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one.
"Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right.
"What is clear from our discussions so far is that this job is attracting names it wouldn't have done five years ago.
"When you combine our move to one of the best stadiums in Europe in 16 months' time with the Board's ambitious vision and significant transfer budget you have an extremely exciting prospect for the right man.
"I want to appoint a manager you all feel excited by and one that will honour the Club's traditions and history. With your support, an ambitious manager and the Board's drive and commitment I can see the next few years being game-changing for our Club."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dan Potts joins League Two Luton Town
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Dan Potts has secured a two-year contract with League Two club Luton Town.
The 21-year-old was on the fringes of the first team at West Ham for some considerable time but failed to make the breakthrough, which led to his release by the club this week.
However Potts has wasted no time in getting his career back on track, securing a two-year deal at Kenilworth Road with John Still's Hatters, who missed out on last season's play-offs by just three points.
"I'm over the moon to have signed for Luton Town," he told the club's website. "I can't wait to crack on. Promotion is the key for me, I want success.
"West Ham is a big club, but so is Luton and they want to succeed. So in that respect the two clubs are no different. They have great fan bases and coming into the set-up at Luton will be good for me. Hopefully we'll push on and get up the leagues.
Manager John Still added: "He's young man, a young player who's reasonably experienced. He's played in the Premier League, he's played lower league – a left sided defender who can play left back and centre half. He'll be a good addition to our squad.
"He's always been a player that we were interested in if it became possible and when you look at the other players we've taken from West Ham it gives us a good opportunity to look - and we've been looking at Dan for some time."
Potts made his first team debut for the Hammers at the age of just 17 in a 1-0 Championship win over Barnsley in November 2011. He made his Premier League debut just over a year later, in a 3-0 defeat at Sunderland.
One of several youngsters to have featured in the 5-0 FA Cup drubbing at Nottingham Forest, Potts made his final appearance for West Ham in the Capital One Cup defeat against Sheffield United in August 2014.
He was also named as the KUMB Readers' Young Player of the Year in both 2011/12 and 2012/13.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOULD THEY STAY OR SHOULD THEY GO: THE DEFENDERS
By Iain Dale 29 May 2015 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
Adrian
Officially the Premier League's best goalkeeper it seems. There's no doubt about it, he made some fantastic saves. I can't explain why but he still leaves me squirming in my seat sometimes, but you can't argue with his shotstopping abilities. And three consecutive penalty saves ia almost Rob Green-esque. VERDICT: KEEP. Obvs
Jussi
Jussi has served us well but he's 40. Even he can't keep going forever. He's been a brilliant goalkeeper for Bolton and us, but all good things come to an end. Southend's David Bentley could well be his replacement. VERDICT: RELEASE
James Tomkins
An in and out season for James Tomkins, mainly because of injuries. When he's played he's been his normal reliable self and having now signed a long term contract I can't think anyone would think selling him ought to be on our agenda. A class act. VERDICT: KEEP
Winston Reid
Winston Reid hasn't had his best season mainly due to several injuries but it's hard to think of a game in which he has had a stinker. The contract shenanigins didn't help either, but that's seemingly over now. Until his head is turned the next time. The truth is that no one came in with an offer. VERDICT: KEEP
James Collins
Of our three central defenders Collins had by far the best season. At the beginning of the season you'd have put him as third choice, but I suspect most of us feel that he deserves better than that. Apart from a couple of glaring howlers he was an absolute rock. He also scored a brilliant own goal! He's getting on and won't get any quicker, but he's Mr Reliability. VERDICT: KEEP
Reece Burke
What a pleasure it has been to see Reece Burke break into the first team and get a few games. He has the grace of Rio Ferdinand combined with the tenacity of James Collins. He certainly hasn't let anyone down. He also isn't afraid to shoot when he gets near the opposition penalty area. His distribution could improve, but all in all a very promising few games. VERDICT: KEEP
Carl Jenkinson
Carl has developed into one of my favourite players. I just hope we can persuade Arsenal to either loan him to us again or even better sell him to us. Frankly he's worth whatever they want. He hasn't had a bad game and like Aaron Cresswell has almost operated as a wing back. VERDICT: SIGN!
Aaron Cresswell
A brilliant initial season for the former Ipswich left back. Nothing has phased him at all. He's brilliant on the left wing whether bounding forward or overlapping. His only weaknes is sometimes getting out of position and leaving gaps for opposition players to fill. He's played every game and only had one stinker – at Stoke. He's also got a rocket of a shot on him and I reckon he'll be in the goals next season. VERDICT: KEEP
Joey O'Brien
Joey never lets anyone down and every team needs a Joey. He can play anywhere across the back or in midfield. He's never going to be an exciting player and I'd be sorry to see him leave. However, he may decide that at his age he needs to be playing more. he's the sort of player that ought to be interesting the three promoted clubs, but I for one hppe he stays. VERDICT: KEEP
Guy Demel
Guy Demel didn't really get much of a lookin last season with Jenkinson ruling supreme down the right. I can't see that changing if Carl stays. Demel is very athletic but he's possibly getting long in the tooth to play the role of an attacking right back. Again, I'd be sorry to see him go, but I think he's one who could be let go. VERDICT: SELL
Doneil Henry
We haven't really seen him yet, but by all accounts he was outstanding when he went on loan to Blackburn. If he hadn't been injured I suspect he'd have made the first team in front of Reece Burke. Definitely one for the future. VERDICT: KEEP
Dan Potts
I really regret that Dan Potts hasn't been given the opportunity to build on the excellent start he made a couple of years ago. He made one of the mos timpressive debuts I have ever seen but inexplicably he's been virtually ignored since then. With the purchase of Stephen Hendrie that is unlikely to change. There are rumours that Luton want him. I suspect he would well advised to go if he wants to kickstart his career. VERDICT: SELL UPDATE: I'm now told Potts has formally been released.
VERDICT
Bearing in mind we have Stephen Hendrie joining us from St Mirren, it seems to me we don't need to spend an awful lot of money on defensive reinforcements. Assuming we can retain Carl Jenkinson and Joey O'Brien stays, we're covered at right back. And with five central defenders, do we really need another one? Well, the demands of the Europa League might well suggest we do.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons £25m kitty can attract top boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Time and again I read that a transfer budget of £25 million – which is about what the Hammers will offer their new boss – is never going to be enough to attract a top managerial name to the club.
I beg to differ!
Obviously double that amount would be great but the idea that we aren't offering enough to attract a decent managerial target is false.
Looking back on last summer it was only the top handful of clubs who spent more than £50 million with the Hammers coming out ninth in the spending League forking out around £26 million.
Possibly the most inspired managerial signing last season was Ronald Koeman at Southampton who spent just £7 million more than us but the likes of Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw had been sold to fund their £33 million outlay.
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley – who escaped relegation on the last day of the season against us – got rid of £44 million.
So the idea that managers will be turned off by what many appear to think is a meagre budget is clearly wrong and already it has become clear that Rafa Benitez would have been happy with it had Real Madrid not come in.
On top of the transfer kitty available our new boss will be able to raid the loan market. Let's not be too downbeat as the squad is pretty respectable and £25m will fund some decent additions.
We have taken our club 'spend' figures from http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/201415-premier-league-transfers-all-permanent-signings-4035681#.VWhxVM9Viko
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three Hammers out, one in at QPR
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Former Hammers Bobby Zamora and Rio Ferdinand have been released by QPR this week following their relegation to the championship. Both have contracts which expire on 30th June. Mauro Zarate will also be rejoining West Ham after his season long loan with QPR which has come to an end after playing just 71 minutes.
If rumours are to be believed to be true then one former Hammer released by West Ham this week could soon be joining QPR in the other direction.
Carlton Cole has been linked with a move to West London to help them win promotion back to the Premier League. Chairman Tony Fernandes who claims to be a life long West Ham fan is a big admirer of the big man.
Once linked with a £20 million move to Liverpool and rejecting opportunities to sign for clubs including Galatasaray and Stoke the former Hammer is likely to receive a number of offers from Championship and MLS clubs following his release.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG waves farewell to striker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
David Gold has waved a fond farewell to Carlton Cole.
The big striker wrote an emotional open letter to the fans yesterday declaring he would always carry the club in his heart.
The big striker leaves Upton Park after nine years during which he has scored 57 goals in 259 games.
And Gold speaking on Twitter said: " Good luck Carlton in your future endeavours, it's been a pleasure knowing you. dg"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Posh sign Collison
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Peterborough have completed the signing of former West Ham United midfielder Jack Collison on a one-year contract.
The 26-year-old spent time in the Peterborough Academy and the Cambridge United youth set-up before joining West Ham's Academy. Collison then went on to play over 100 games for the Hammers scoring 14 goals and has made 17 appearances at international level for Wales.
Posh boss Dave Robertson was delighted with his first summer acquisition and said: 'I have been speaking with Jack for a number of weeks now and I am delighted that he has agreed to join the club and bought into what we are trying to achieve here. He brings a lot of experience and has obviously played at the highest level both with West Ham United and with his country Wales.
'He has scored some big goals including in a play-off semi-final and he fits into what we are looking for as coaches. I believe in Jack, I know what he can bring to this football club and myself and Grant (McCann) are looking forward to working with him.'
Collison said: 'It feels a bit like a fairytale because I started my career at Peterborough in the Academy so it is great to be back here. I knew the manager back then and I have been speaking with him and I believe in his plans for this football club. The manager has played a massive part in my decision to sign here.
'I had a great time with West Ham and have been working extremely hard day and night to get myself ready for a new challenge this summer and I am looking forward to meeting the boys in the dressing room in pre-season and getting out there on the pitch.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers might miss out on Southend keeper
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham's Goalkeeper target Daniel Bentley has revealed he is to be offered a new contract by Southend. The shot stopper made two stunning saves during a dramatic penalty shoot-out to help Phil Brown's side secure a memorable victory in Saturday's play off final against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley.
The 21-year-old, whose current deal expires at the end of next season, is now set to be rewarded with a new contract in a bid to see off other admirers including West Ham.
"It is my understanding that I will be offered a new contract," revealed Bentley to the Southend Echo.
"My agent and I will be sitting down with the club to talk about it all and I'm happy to do that.
"I know there has been a little bit of speculation about my future but I'm very happy with what we've achieved this year and I enjoy being a Southend player.
"I only ever focus on what happens on the pitch but right now I'm also making sure I enjoy this promotion we've just won as well"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with former Italy boss
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
According to Italian daily Gazzetta dello Sport, West Ham have made contact with Cesare Prandelli to enquire about his availability.
Prandelli started his managing career as youth team coach for Atalanta. He later spent two years with Parma before joining Roma which he left the team because of personal problems involving his wife, with her being seriously ill. Prandelli joined Fiorentina as manager in the summer of 2005 which he manged for five years achieving success.
He became head coach of the Italian national team after the 2010 World Cup resigning in June 2014 after a 1-0 defeat against Uruguay, which eliminated Italy from the World Cup in the group stage.
In July 2014, Prandelli became the manager of Galatasaray taking over from the previous fellow Italian coach Roberto Mancini, signing a two-year contract. He only spent 147 days as the manager of Galatasaray, as he was sacked on 28th November 2014.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No appointment for at least a week
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham joint Chairman David Sullivan has confirmed there is imminent announcement for a new manager saying there will be no appointment for at least a week.
Speaking to the club's official website WHUFC.com Sullivan said:
" I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our Club forwards. It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one."
"Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right."
"What is clear from our discussions so far is that this job is attracting names it wouldn't have done five years ago. When you combine our move to one of the best stadiums in Europe in 16 months' time with the Board's ambitious vision and significant transfer budget you have an extremely exciting prospect for the right man."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham first signing in the next 24 hours
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham joint Chairman David Sullivan has revealed West Ham will announce their first signing of the summer in the next 24 hours followed by a big name signing in the next two to three weeks.
Speaking to the clubs official website Sullivan said:
"I continue to work with our player recruitment team to identify players to improve the squad. We hope to announce our first signing in the next 24 hours and follow that up with a big name in the next two-three weeks."
Speculation is the announcement will be Lassana Diarra who has been training with West Ham for several months while he sorts out a contractual dispute with his former club or 27 year old Birmingham City goalkeeper Darren Randolph on a free transfer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham win cup for third time
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
A team of West Ham youngsters lifted the Premier League Kicks Cup for a third year in a row after beating Newcastle 1-0 in the mixed/boys final.
600 Under-16 youngsters playing in 70 teams and representing 47 Premier League and Football League clubs gathered at Jeffrey Humble Playing Fields in Liverpool on Thursday to display their skills in a competitive and high-quality tournament, which celebrated the work Kicks does throughout the year.
"This was an amazing event," said Malachi Napa, who scored the winning goal for West Ham in the final. "I have played football since I was five and this was the best feeling in the world.
"I have never in my life had a time when I was so happy, to have scored the winning goal to win the cup. Everybody is happy, everyone is enjoying themselves. We came here to have fun, which is the main thing, but we came here to win because West Ham are the best Kicks!"
"It's an amazing feeling to wear the West Ham shirt, we are not an academy but Kicks gives us the opportunity to participate in certain events which other people don't get."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Normally the end of the season offers a few days to relax and recharge the batteries before thoughts turn to the following campaign.
This year, however, things couldn't be more different. Our decision to part ways with Sam has meant that we now have the huge, but incredibly exciting, challenge of appointing a new man to take us into the final season at the Boleyn Ground and into the new Stadium.
I should add here that our parting with Sam was one of the most amicable I've had in football. I had a good chat with him on the phone last Saturday and we thanked each other for the work we've done together and the progress we've seen at the Club over the past four years. I am sure it won't be too long before we see Sam back in the Premier League and we wish him all the best, except when he's facing West Ham of course!
So back to looking at the future, I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our Club forwards. It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one.
Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right.
What is clear from our discussions so far is that this job is attracting names it wouldn't have done five years ago. When you combine our move to one of the best stadiums in Europe in 16 months' time with the Board's ambitious vision and significant transfer budget you have an extremely exciting prospect for the right man.
In addition, I continue to work with our player recruitment team to identify players to improve the squad. We hope to announce our first signing in the next 24 hours and follow that up with a big name in the next two-three weeks. We will bring you any news of new signings on whufc.com first so please do keep checking back here to find out first.
So in summary, I want to appoint a manager you all feel excited by and one that will honour the Club's traditions and history. With your support, an ambitious managerand the Board's drive and commitment I can see the next few years being game-changing for our Club.
Thank you for your continued support.
Come on you Irons!
David Sullivan
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Europa League preparations underway!
WHUFC.com
Preparations for West Ham United's participation in the 2015/16 UEFA Europa League are already well underway at the Boleyn Ground.
With the prospect of a first qualifying round tie at home to kick-off the final season at the Hammers' historic home, head groundsman Dougie Robertson and his team have begun the six-week process of relaying the pitch.
Robertson explained how the hallowed turf will be replaced and ready for use should West Ham be drawn at home in the first leg, which is scheduled for Thursday 2 July.
"We have had to renovate the pitch early because of the Club's potential participation in the UEFA Europa League, which has now been confirmed," said Robertson, who has been part of the Club's groundstaff for nearly two decades. "This is the earliest that we have started this process since the summer of 2002, when the pitch was rebuilt.
"The first process was to strip the vegetation away from the surface, to help expose the Desso fibres and we then finished that process by the more traditional method of raking it out.
"We then spread sand across the pitch and verti-drained to alleviate compaction and assist water removal – a process which we completed at the end of last week."
Robertson and his team usually begin this activity following the end of the annual pitch events in June, but the Club's qualification for European competition via the Fair Play League regrettably meant these events had to be cancelled and the pitch renovation brought forward to before the end of the 2014/15 season.
"We always run with a tight schedule because of the pitch events and ideally we would have longer than six weeks, but this time of year provides us with perfect growing conditions and we will be ready for 2 July," Robertson confirmed.
"The pitch has now been seeded and the next stages of the process will see us cut the new grass for first time at the end of this week, forcing the growth through so that the playing surface is ready for the start of the Europa League."
Should West Ham progress in the Europa League, the Hammers will play no fewer than three competitive home matches before the start of the 2015/16 Barclays Premier League season on Saturday 8 August.
With a potential ten months of football to be played during the historic final season at the Boleyn Ground, Robertson and his team will be working morning, noon and night to ensure the pitch is fit and ready whenever it is needed.
"It is potentially the longest season I have known since I have been at the Club," he confirmed. "We were in the UEFA Cup under Alan Pardew in 2006 and that was an exciting time for the fans, but it does make for a very long season!
"I've spoken to counterparts at other clubs who are well-versed with the Europa League and Thursday/Sunday fixtures and that obviously means my hard-working staff will be in every weekend for the foreseeable future."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Potts pays tribute to Hammers
WHUFc.com
Dan Potts has bid an emotional farewell to West Ham United on leaving the Club after 12 years in a Claret and Blue shirt.
The 21-year-old joined the Hammers at the age of nine and, after bravely winning a life-threatening battle with leukaemia as a schoolboy, graduated from the Academy of Football and went on to make 13 first-team appearances.
Potts will join League Two club Luton Town this summer, where he will play under West Ham fan John Still and alongside former Hammers teammate Pelly Ruddock, and is looking forward to the prospect of playing regular senior football.
In the meantime, however, the son of West Ham legend Steve Potts, has paid tribute to the staff, players and supporters who made his time at the Boleyn Ground so enjoyable.
"West Ham has been a massive part of my life, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well," said Potts, who captained the youth team and Development Squad regularly before making his first-team debut at 17 in December 2011. "I've been brought up around the Club and have a lot of fond memories and I will never forget my time here. West Ham has made me the person I am today.
"It goes without saying that my debut against Barnsley at Upton Park was pretty special, and to play away against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Premier League was also amazing. There are some other moments that I can't really remember, like when I suffered a concussion playing at Arsenal a couple of years ago!
Potts was part of a close-knit year-group that came through the ranks at the Academy of Football, with the likes of Elliot Lee, George Moncur, Blair Turgott, Matthias Fanimo and the late Dylan Tombides forming a special bond that will never be broken.
"I have made friends for life at this Club, 100 per cent. There are a lot of good people at the Club, not just the players, but the staff are also top-drawer and top people. You wouldn't expect anything else from West Ham, because it is based around good people. I've made a lot of friends for life, that's for sure.
"It's been a memorable time and the Club will always be in my heart for various reasons. The Club has always been there when I've been in times of need, on and off the pitch.
"Being around the Club as a whole, it's going in the right direction with the stadium move and all that, so it will be great to see them do well and be in the top half of the Premier League, where they belong.
"No-one deserves that more than the fans, because they are a massive part of the Club and I am one of them. You won't find a better set of fans.
"The Club will always be in my heart and it's a sad day, but it's come to a time when I have to think of myself and I want to be playing. I'll always appreciate what they have done for me I'll never forget it."
After an injury-affected 2014/15 season, Potts is now embarking on a new adventure with Luton, where he hopes to make his mark by becoming a first-team regular and help the Hatters to climb the Football League ladder.
"It's been a tough time, but I know I am ready and it has got to the stage where I need to be playing week-in, week-out and from a personal point of view, that's the decision I've made," he explained.
"When Luton approached me and asked me to look at the club, it felt right and felt that the club was going in the right direction, so I hope I can kick on with them and move up the leagues."
West Ham United would like to thank Dan for his hard work, commitment and passion over the past 12 years and wish him every success in his future career.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jack's back at The Posh
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers midfielder Jack Collison has signed a one-year contract with League One club Peterborough United.
The 26-year-old Welsh international has been without a club since being released by Championship side Ipswich Town last season but is back in the game having landed a contract with The Posh.
Jack collison ✔@Jcollison31
Very excited to have signed for @theposhdotcom .. Looking forward to working with @DaveRobertson11 & @grantmccann11 . Roll on next season ⚽️
8:31 PM - 29 May 2015
Collison, speaking via Peterborough's website said: "It feels a bit like a fairytale because I started my career at Peterborough in the Academy so it is great to be back here.
"I knew the manager [Dave Robertson] back then. I have been speaking with him and I believe in his plans for this football club. The manager has played a massive part in my decision to sign here.
"I had a great time with West Ham and have been working extremely hard day and night to get myself ready for a new challenge this summer. I am looking forward to meeting the boys in the dressing room in pre-season and getting out there on the pitch."
And Collison's new boss Robertson added: "I have been speaking with Jack for a number of weeks now and I am delighted that he has agreed to join the club and bought into what we are trying to achieve here.
"He brings a lot of experience and has obviously played at the highest level both with West Ham United and with Wales.
"He has scored some big goals and he fits into what we are looking for as coaches. I believe in Jack, I know what he can bring to this football club and myself and Grant [McCann] are looking forward to working with him."
Jack collison ✔@Jcollison31
Thanks for all the messages... Can't wait to get started now.. I have missed it so much ❤️⚽️
8:32 PM - 29 May 2015
Collison - who spent nine years at West Ham before leaving last summer - was also a double-winner at last night's KUMB Awards, where he won the Most Missed and Podcast Guest of the Year categories.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gone - the XI who are no more
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
11 players have been released by West Ham United, after their contracts came to an end.
The club have announced that first team pros Jussi Jaaskelainen, Carlton Cole, Guy Demel and Nene will not be offered new deals.
They are joined by Under 21s Kieran Bywater, Sean Maguire, Paul McCallum and, most notably, Dan Potts, whose father Steve currently manages the Development squad.
From the Academy, scholars Jerry Amoo, Kieran Bailey and Taylor Tombides - younger brother of Dylan, who sadly died last year - have also been released.
Nene, who moved to London in January but barely featured under Sam Allardyce admitted he was disappointed by the lack of opportunities at West Ham - but felt that he could still play at the highest level for another three years, at least.
"I came to West Ham very motivated and before long was completely adapted, training and playing at a high level, but ended up having few opportunities", he said via his personal website.
"When the season ended I talked to the owners of West Ham and decided it would be best to continue my career at another club.
"I never had physical problems and injuries were rare throughout my career. So I know I can keep playing at a high level for at most three or four seasons. I'll examine any proposals that arise, both in Europe and with Brazilian clubs."
Meanwhile Cole, who enjoyed two spells at West Ham totalling nine years penned a heartfelt farewell letter to the club's supporters.
"I've been at West Ham United for quite a long time and I've enjoyed myself here, with all the ups and downs, the heartaches and everything that came along with it," he wrote.
"At the same time, I've grown from being a boy to a man here and everybody has treated me like a part of the family.
"It is heart-warming to know that I have got such support and that I have done my fair share for the club and been part of the history as well, which is very important for me. I'm very happy to have been a part of it and, wherever my future may lie, West Ham will always have a special place in my heart.
"It means a lot to me to have been at West Ham for so long. I wouldn't like to use the word hero, but I have played my part. A load of players have come and gone, but I've stayed around and enjoyed every minute of it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New deal for Hammers target on the cards
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Southend United's play-off hero Daniel Bentley could be set to extend his stay at Roots Hall, despite interest from West Ham.
The 21-year-old goalkeeper was the star of the show as his save in the penalty shootout at Wembley last weekend propelled the Shrimpers to League One, at the expense of Wycombe Wanderers.
And that success has led to Southend preparing a new deal for one of the most highly-rated goalkeepers outside the Premier League.
"It is my understanding that I will be offered a new contract," Bentley told the Echo. "My agent and I will be sitting down with the club to talk about it all and I'm happy to do that.
"I know there has been a little bit of speculation about my future but I'm very happy with what we've achieved this year and I enjoy being a Southend player."
Bentley has been linked with a move to the Boleyn Ground since last summer, when West Ham first considered making a move for the Wickford-born youngster.
With Jussi Jaaskelainen having left the club with his contract having expired, a vacancy for the number two spot at the club now exists.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First signing of the summer imminent, says Sullivan
KUNB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan has revealed that West Ham expect to make their first signing of the summer within the next 24 hours.
Sullivan, speaking to supporters via the club's website this afternoon (Friday_ revealed that despite having no manager in place, the club hope to announce their first arrival of the close season imminently.
"I continue to work with our player recruitment team to identify players to improve the squad," he said.
"We hope to announce our first signing in the next 24 hours and follow that up with a big name in the next two-three weeks. "
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Sullivan speaks on manager search
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Co-owner David Sullivan has given an update on the search for a replacement for Sam Allardyce.
60-year-old Allardyce parted company with West Ham last week after four years at the helm, since when a number of the club's top targets - including Rafa Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti - have rejected overtures from the Hammers.
However Sullivan, speaking via the club's website this afternoon (Friday) insisted that he was spending "every waking minute" to find a suitable replacement.
"I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our club forwards," he said.
"It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one.
"Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right.
"What is clear from our discussions so far is that this job is attracting names it wouldn't have done five years ago.
"When you combine our move to one of the best stadiums in Europe in 16 months' time with the Board's ambitious vision and significant transfer budget you have an extremely exciting prospect for the right man.
"I want to appoint a manager you all feel excited by and one that will honour the Club's traditions and history. With your support, an ambitious manager and the Board's drive and commitment I can see the next few years being game-changing for our Club."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dan Potts joins League Two Luton Town
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 29th May 2015
By: Staff Writer
Dan Potts has secured a two-year contract with League Two club Luton Town.
The 21-year-old was on the fringes of the first team at West Ham for some considerable time but failed to make the breakthrough, which led to his release by the club this week.
However Potts has wasted no time in getting his career back on track, securing a two-year deal at Kenilworth Road with John Still's Hatters, who missed out on last season's play-offs by just three points.
"I'm over the moon to have signed for Luton Town," he told the club's website. "I can't wait to crack on. Promotion is the key for me, I want success.
"West Ham is a big club, but so is Luton and they want to succeed. So in that respect the two clubs are no different. They have great fan bases and coming into the set-up at Luton will be good for me. Hopefully we'll push on and get up the leagues.
Manager John Still added: "He's young man, a young player who's reasonably experienced. He's played in the Premier League, he's played lower league – a left sided defender who can play left back and centre half. He'll be a good addition to our squad.
"He's always been a player that we were interested in if it became possible and when you look at the other players we've taken from West Ham it gives us a good opportunity to look - and we've been looking at Dan for some time."
Potts made his first team debut for the Hammers at the age of just 17 in a 1-0 Championship win over Barnsley in November 2011. He made his Premier League debut just over a year later, in a 3-0 defeat at Sunderland.
One of several youngsters to have featured in the 5-0 FA Cup drubbing at Nottingham Forest, Potts made his final appearance for West Ham in the Capital One Cup defeat against Sheffield United in August 2014.
He was also named as the KUMB Readers' Young Player of the Year in both 2011/12 and 2012/13.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOULD THEY STAY OR SHOULD THEY GO: THE DEFENDERS
By Iain Dale 29 May 2015 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
Adrian
Officially the Premier League's best goalkeeper it seems. There's no doubt about it, he made some fantastic saves. I can't explain why but he still leaves me squirming in my seat sometimes, but you can't argue with his shotstopping abilities. And three consecutive penalty saves ia almost Rob Green-esque. VERDICT: KEEP. Obvs
Jussi
Jussi has served us well but he's 40. Even he can't keep going forever. He's been a brilliant goalkeeper for Bolton and us, but all good things come to an end. Southend's David Bentley could well be his replacement. VERDICT: RELEASE
James Tomkins
An in and out season for James Tomkins, mainly because of injuries. When he's played he's been his normal reliable self and having now signed a long term contract I can't think anyone would think selling him ought to be on our agenda. A class act. VERDICT: KEEP
Winston Reid
Winston Reid hasn't had his best season mainly due to several injuries but it's hard to think of a game in which he has had a stinker. The contract shenanigins didn't help either, but that's seemingly over now. Until his head is turned the next time. The truth is that no one came in with an offer. VERDICT: KEEP
James Collins
Of our three central defenders Collins had by far the best season. At the beginning of the season you'd have put him as third choice, but I suspect most of us feel that he deserves better than that. Apart from a couple of glaring howlers he was an absolute rock. He also scored a brilliant own goal! He's getting on and won't get any quicker, but he's Mr Reliability. VERDICT: KEEP
Reece Burke
What a pleasure it has been to see Reece Burke break into the first team and get a few games. He has the grace of Rio Ferdinand combined with the tenacity of James Collins. He certainly hasn't let anyone down. He also isn't afraid to shoot when he gets near the opposition penalty area. His distribution could improve, but all in all a very promising few games. VERDICT: KEEP
Carl Jenkinson
Carl has developed into one of my favourite players. I just hope we can persuade Arsenal to either loan him to us again or even better sell him to us. Frankly he's worth whatever they want. He hasn't had a bad game and like Aaron Cresswell has almost operated as a wing back. VERDICT: SIGN!
Aaron Cresswell
A brilliant initial season for the former Ipswich left back. Nothing has phased him at all. He's brilliant on the left wing whether bounding forward or overlapping. His only weaknes is sometimes getting out of position and leaving gaps for opposition players to fill. He's played every game and only had one stinker – at Stoke. He's also got a rocket of a shot on him and I reckon he'll be in the goals next season. VERDICT: KEEP
Joey O'Brien
Joey never lets anyone down and every team needs a Joey. He can play anywhere across the back or in midfield. He's never going to be an exciting player and I'd be sorry to see him leave. However, he may decide that at his age he needs to be playing more. he's the sort of player that ought to be interesting the three promoted clubs, but I for one hppe he stays. VERDICT: KEEP
Guy Demel
Guy Demel didn't really get much of a lookin last season with Jenkinson ruling supreme down the right. I can't see that changing if Carl stays. Demel is very athletic but he's possibly getting long in the tooth to play the role of an attacking right back. Again, I'd be sorry to see him go, but I think he's one who could be let go. VERDICT: SELL
Doneil Henry
We haven't really seen him yet, but by all accounts he was outstanding when he went on loan to Blackburn. If he hadn't been injured I suspect he'd have made the first team in front of Reece Burke. Definitely one for the future. VERDICT: KEEP
Dan Potts
I really regret that Dan Potts hasn't been given the opportunity to build on the excellent start he made a couple of years ago. He made one of the mos timpressive debuts I have ever seen but inexplicably he's been virtually ignored since then. With the purchase of Stephen Hendrie that is unlikely to change. There are rumours that Luton want him. I suspect he would well advised to go if he wants to kickstart his career. VERDICT: SELL UPDATE: I'm now told Potts has formally been released.
VERDICT
Bearing in mind we have Stephen Hendrie joining us from St Mirren, it seems to me we don't need to spend an awful lot of money on defensive reinforcements. Assuming we can retain Carl Jenkinson and Joey O'Brien stays, we're covered at right back. And with five central defenders, do we really need another one? Well, the demands of the Europa League might well suggest we do.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons £25m kitty can attract top boss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Time and again I read that a transfer budget of £25 million – which is about what the Hammers will offer their new boss – is never going to be enough to attract a top managerial name to the club.
I beg to differ!
Obviously double that amount would be great but the idea that we aren't offering enough to attract a decent managerial target is false.
Looking back on last summer it was only the top handful of clubs who spent more than £50 million with the Hammers coming out ninth in the spending League forking out around £26 million.
Possibly the most inspired managerial signing last season was Ronald Koeman at Southampton who spent just £7 million more than us but the likes of Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw had been sold to fund their £33 million outlay.
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley – who escaped relegation on the last day of the season against us – got rid of £44 million.
So the idea that managers will be turned off by what many appear to think is a meagre budget is clearly wrong and already it has become clear that Rafa Benitez would have been happy with it had Real Madrid not come in.
On top of the transfer kitty available our new boss will be able to raid the loan market. Let's not be too downbeat as the squad is pretty respectable and £25m will fund some decent additions.
We have taken our club 'spend' figures from http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/201415-premier-league-transfers-all-permanent-signings-4035681#.VWhxVM9Viko
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three Hammers out, one in at QPR
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Former Hammers Bobby Zamora and Rio Ferdinand have been released by QPR this week following their relegation to the championship. Both have contracts which expire on 30th June. Mauro Zarate will also be rejoining West Ham after his season long loan with QPR which has come to an end after playing just 71 minutes.
If rumours are to be believed to be true then one former Hammer released by West Ham this week could soon be joining QPR in the other direction.
Carlton Cole has been linked with a move to West London to help them win promotion back to the Premier League. Chairman Tony Fernandes who claims to be a life long West Ham fan is a big admirer of the big man.
Once linked with a £20 million move to Liverpool and rejecting opportunities to sign for clubs including Galatasaray and Stoke the former Hammer is likely to receive a number of offers from Championship and MLS clubs following his release.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG waves farewell to striker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
David Gold has waved a fond farewell to Carlton Cole.
The big striker wrote an emotional open letter to the fans yesterday declaring he would always carry the club in his heart.
The big striker leaves Upton Park after nine years during which he has scored 57 goals in 259 games.
And Gold speaking on Twitter said: " Good luck Carlton in your future endeavours, it's been a pleasure knowing you. dg"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Posh sign Collison
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
Peterborough have completed the signing of former West Ham United midfielder Jack Collison on a one-year contract.
The 26-year-old spent time in the Peterborough Academy and the Cambridge United youth set-up before joining West Ham's Academy. Collison then went on to play over 100 games for the Hammers scoring 14 goals and has made 17 appearances at international level for Wales.
Posh boss Dave Robertson was delighted with his first summer acquisition and said: 'I have been speaking with Jack for a number of weeks now and I am delighted that he has agreed to join the club and bought into what we are trying to achieve here. He brings a lot of experience and has obviously played at the highest level both with West Ham United and with his country Wales.
'He has scored some big goals including in a play-off semi-final and he fits into what we are looking for as coaches. I believe in Jack, I know what he can bring to this football club and myself and Grant (McCann) are looking forward to working with him.'
Collison said: 'It feels a bit like a fairytale because I started my career at Peterborough in the Academy so it is great to be back here. I knew the manager back then and I have been speaking with him and I believe in his plans for this football club. The manager has played a massive part in my decision to sign here.
'I had a great time with West Ham and have been working extremely hard day and night to get myself ready for a new challenge this summer and I am looking forward to meeting the boys in the dressing room in pre-season and getting out there on the pitch.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers might miss out on Southend keeper
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham's Goalkeeper target Daniel Bentley has revealed he is to be offered a new contract by Southend. The shot stopper made two stunning saves during a dramatic penalty shoot-out to help Phil Brown's side secure a memorable victory in Saturday's play off final against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley.
The 21-year-old, whose current deal expires at the end of next season, is now set to be rewarded with a new contract in a bid to see off other admirers including West Ham.
"It is my understanding that I will be offered a new contract," revealed Bentley to the Southend Echo.
"My agent and I will be sitting down with the club to talk about it all and I'm happy to do that.
"I know there has been a little bit of speculation about my future but I'm very happy with what we've achieved this year and I enjoy being a Southend player.
"I only ever focus on what happens on the pitch but right now I'm also making sure I enjoy this promotion we've just won as well"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with former Italy boss
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
According to Italian daily Gazzetta dello Sport, West Ham have made contact with Cesare Prandelli to enquire about his availability.
Prandelli started his managing career as youth team coach for Atalanta. He later spent two years with Parma before joining Roma which he left the team because of personal problems involving his wife, with her being seriously ill. Prandelli joined Fiorentina as manager in the summer of 2005 which he manged for five years achieving success.
He became head coach of the Italian national team after the 2010 World Cup resigning in June 2014 after a 1-0 defeat against Uruguay, which eliminated Italy from the World Cup in the group stage.
In July 2014, Prandelli became the manager of Galatasaray taking over from the previous fellow Italian coach Roberto Mancini, signing a two-year contract. He only spent 147 days as the manager of Galatasaray, as he was sacked on 28th November 2014.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No appointment for at least a week
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham joint Chairman David Sullivan has confirmed there is imminent announcement for a new manager saying there will be no appointment for at least a week.
Speaking to the club's official website WHUFC.com Sullivan said:
" I am dedicating every waking minute to recruiting the best available manager to drive our Club forwards. It is a constantly changing landscape but we are being absolutely thorough in our search, by speaking to representatives of a number of managers and doing our own due diligence on each one."
"Given that, I am not expecting us to make an appointment for at least a week as we must do everything we can to get this appointment right."
"What is clear from our discussions so far is that this job is attracting names it wouldn't have done five years ago. When you combine our move to one of the best stadiums in Europe in 16 months' time with the Board's ambitious vision and significant transfer budget you have an extremely exciting prospect for the right man."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham first signing in the next 24 hours
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
West Ham joint Chairman David Sullivan has revealed West Ham will announce their first signing of the summer in the next 24 hours followed by a big name signing in the next two to three weeks.
Speaking to the clubs official website Sullivan said:
"I continue to work with our player recruitment team to identify players to improve the squad. We hope to announce our first signing in the next 24 hours and follow that up with a big name in the next two-three weeks."
Speculation is the announcement will be Lassana Diarra who has been training with West Ham for several months while he sorts out a contractual dispute with his former club or 27 year old Birmingham City goalkeeper Darren Randolph on a free transfer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham win cup for third time
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 29, 2015 in Whispers
C AND H
A team of West Ham youngsters lifted the Premier League Kicks Cup for a third year in a row after beating Newcastle 1-0 in the mixed/boys final.
600 Under-16 youngsters playing in 70 teams and representing 47 Premier League and Football League clubs gathered at Jeffrey Humble Playing Fields in Liverpool on Thursday to display their skills in a competitive and high-quality tournament, which celebrated the work Kicks does throughout the year.
"This was an amazing event," said Malachi Napa, who scored the winning goal for West Ham in the final. "I have played football since I was five and this was the best feeling in the world.
"I have never in my life had a time when I was so happy, to have scored the winning goal to win the cup. Everybody is happy, everyone is enjoying themselves. We came here to have fun, which is the main thing, but we came here to win because West Ham are the best Kicks!"
"It's an amazing feeling to wear the West Ham shirt, we are not an academy but Kicks gives us the opportunity to participate in certain events which other people don't get."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
