Payet relishing partnership with Sakho
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet is relishing his partnership with Diafra Sakho in the West Ham
United attack and hopes he can provide a lot more goals for the Senegal
international. Payet has wasted no time settling into his new surroundings
at the Boleyn Ground and was voted man of the match once again during the
2-2 draw against Norwich on Saturday. The France international was among the
top providers in Europe last season and created more chances than Barcelona
superstar Lionel Messi. Payet has already set up three assists this season
and played a crucial role in the Hammers first goal on Saturday when he
showed his quality down the right hand side and played the perfect cross in
for Sakho who converted from close-range. The Hammers are the joint-top
goalscorers in the Premier League and it is no surprise that the arrival of
Payet has contributed towards the Club's impressive start to the campaign.
Slaven Bilic's side now head to Sunderland on Saturday and Payet hopes that
he can maintain his superb run of form and help set up more goals for the
West Ham forwards. Payet said: "I found myself in a good position and I saw
Diafra who was calling for the ball in the middle, I managed to picked him
out and he was able to score. It was very good. "I am very happy with my
start here and I'm working hard to ensure it continues. "We were behind
twice in the game, we managed to get back to 1-1, then to 2-2 in the final
seconds, so we'll settle for the point. "A draw at home is never good, but
given the way the match panned out we'll take it. It was the start of the
game that cost us the two points on Saturday. "For sure it was difficult
[after they scored] as there wasn't much time left, but afterwards we pushed
right until the end and we were rewarded for it."
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Diego Poyet played the full match as MK Dons slipped to a 3-1 home defeat to
Derby County. New signing Bradley Johnson put the visitors ahead with a
sweetly taken strike however Dons equalised just six minutes later through
Josh Murphy. With a draw looking like the most likely outcome, the Rams
scored twice in the final minute as first Darren Bent, and then Tom Ince
scored to seal the win. The defeat has seen Karl Robinson's side slip into
the relegation zone with seven points from nine games.
Reece Burke's Bradford City slipped to a 2-0 home defeat to Peterborough
United in Graham Westley's first game in charge of The Posh. The 18-year-old
centre-back played the full game, and despite an accomplished performance,
could not prevent Lee Angol and Chris Forrester scoring. The defeat sees the
Bantams slip to 18th in League One, with ten points from their opening nine
games.
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Adrian eyes faster starts
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian admits his side need to start better at
home after being forced to twice come from behind to claim a draw against
Norwich City. In three of their four home fixtures this season the Hammers
have conceded the first goal - going some way to explain their return of
four points from those matches. The stopper was impressed once again with
the character shown but says the Hammers need to stop making life hard for
themselves. "Away we are playing very well but sometimes here at home we
need to start much better" he said. "We allow the other team to have more
confidence and they can score. "For us, at the moment we are playing better
away from home but you have your fans here and of course if you play well,
the fans are with you. "We need a result or to score first to have our fans
with us."
Adrian was once again in fine form against the Canaries, at one point even
using his face to block from Cameron Jerome, and he explained afterwards
that any save is a good one, no matter what part of the body makes it! "It
was a good face save," he laughed. "It was a great strike and I did not have
time to put my hands up to save it so I used my face."
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Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic said the best was still to come from his West Ham side despite
the Hammers' strong start to their Premier League campaign. After seven
games, the Irons currently find themselves third in the Barclays Premier
League table, having won four of their opening games. Following their 2-2
draw with Norwich City on Saturday, the Claret and Blues will look to extend
their unbeaten run to five games when they travel to play basement boys
Sunderland. Speaking ahead of the clash with the Black Cats, Bilic said: "We
are third in the table, and we can still improve. Of course we can, and we
know how to improve. That is the big thing for me. "Our home games are the
bread, and we've got four points in the last two home games but from our
away games we have three wins, but it's more than that. It's who we beat but
also how we won."
As a result of the high-profile away wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and
Manchester City, the Croatian continued to express his belief that his side
have already confounded many pre-season expectations. "Before the season
started no one said we were a big team, the away wins have already changed
the perception, and the way people look at us. We are not big guns, we have
some really great players but we have to work our socks off every game. "We
are going to get there, and keep improving, getting stronger as the season
goes on. I think by the end of the season, we will have more home wins then
away wins."
In recent weeks, the Hammers have been boosted by the return of two key
players to the first team; Adrian has excelled since returning from
suspension while Andy Carroll has made a telling contribution returning from
injury. Bilic continued: "Adrian made some unbelievable saves; he's done
that in every game he's played for us this season. He is a fantastic
goalkeeper, both keepers did well today. "I don't want to tame Andy Carroll,
he is like a boxer, he fights for everything. That is his style, and what
makes him a great player. We can only protect him by easing him back in,
once he's on the pitch, that's the way he plays, and that's the way we want
him to play."
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Stat Attack - Kouyate's eye for goal
WHUFC.com
Since Cheikhou Kouyate has been at West Ham United, a new side to his game
has developed.
In just 37 league games for the Club he has scored as many goals as he
managed in the previous 189.
While part of that can be attributed to the time he had at Anderlecht
stationed in central defence, there can be no doubt that he has become more
prolific as he career has developed - and that can even be said of his short
time in E13.
None of his first 14 games in the Barclays Premier League yielded a goal,
but since notching in the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal last Christmas, he has
scored seven goals in 23 games.
Scoring at a rate of one goal every three games would possibly sound alien
to a player whose previous goalscoring ratio was one every 29, but
particularly this season, Kouyate has shown a real appetite for poaching in
front of goal.
His header in the 2-0 win at Arsenal on the opening day showed an
opportunism in his beating to the ball of Petr Cech as Dimitri Payet
delivered a free-kick.
Then in scoring against AFC Bournemouth and Norwich City, he was
Johnny-on-the-spot to find himself in the right place to smash home after
his teammates had been denied.
Goals from midfield was an area manager Slaven Bilic identified as being
needed to improve on his arrival, and he will certainly be hopeful that
Kouyate's growing aptitude in the opposition's penalty area will continue to
be a fruitful source for the Hammers.
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Slaven Bilic: West Ham are not part of 'big guns' yet
Last Updated: 28/09/15 1:01am
SSN
Slaven Bilic does not feel West Ham should be included with the Premier
League 'big guns' despite their superb start to the season. The Irons are
third in the table despite requiring an injury-time equaliser to salvage a
2-2 draw with Norwich City on Saturday. Bilic says the purchasing power of
the "smaller clubs" in the division has not created a new power system in
the league but says their ability to make quality signings has made life
difficult for the established larger clubs. "After beating Arsenal,
Liverpool and Man City away, people are expecting us to beat Norwich 6-0. It
doesn't happen like that," said the Croat, who took over at Upton Park in
the summer. "[Jose] Mourinho said it best - it is not a new world order, but
this kind of money, the financial injection to smaller clubs in the Premier
League has raised the quality of the teams. Every team has it now. "Before,
in the Premier League, all the teams had energy. Now you have quality, now
it's difficult for the big guns. Every team is good enough "We would love
to be big guns, but let's be fair - nobody said we are big guns before the
season started. "Because of the away wins, they are putting us there, but we
are not the big guns. No. We have some really great players, but we have to
work our socks off every single game."
Bilic feels a collective team ethic is vital to progression. He continued:
"If you are just a little bit slower, you will be struggling, that was
obvious to see [against Norwich]. "Maybe if we worked hard all game, Norwich
are still good enough to beat you, but if you match them in that, then we
were much better. "Then [when we did that] they started to panic, kicking
the balls out, then we got to every second ball. "But if you then give them
a little bit of space, when they have a throw in and you did not close it,
the team passes and the ball comes up to No 14 [Wes Hoolahan] who makes a
dribble, and they go again."
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At last! A much needed Hammers reality check!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 28, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
During a long career in this business I've heard more managerial cliches
than I care to remember mixed with an excruciating crucifixion of the
English language on occasions! Many bosses spend an eternity saying very
little. Speak less - say more are the words that spring to mind! I've heard
more mixed metaphors about taking things with "a pinch of petter" or having
"fires in the iron" when asking about possible transfers, than I want to
remember. One one famous occasion an unnamed manager told me in response to
a question: "Oh I'll keep my head under the apple cart because I don't want
to upset the oranges!" WHAT?
So when blokes like Slaven Bilic come along you celebrate and enjoy them. I
like and trust intelligence and this guy has it in spades. Look what he has
to say about the state of the Premier League and our place in it right now.
Just a clear assessment based on the need for some to take a reality check.
Needed and very well expressed without the necessity for any sort of cliche
or "know what I mean." He said during his post match press conference:
"After beating Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City away, people are expecting us
to beat Norwich 6-0. It doesn't happen like that. "We would love to be big
guns, but let's be fair - nobody said we are big guns before the season
started. Because of the away wins, they are putting us there, but we are not
the big guns. No. We have some really great players, but we have to work our
socks off every single game."
It was a reality check everybody needed. One cam become swayed by ill
informed criticism on the social networks from people with the right, if not
the knowledge, to express a worthwhile opinion. There have been bosses who
resort to the easy excuses for failure or claim all the credit after one
half decent result. In Slaven Bilic the Hammers have a very bright man with
a very firm grasp on his business who also has some highly amusing turns of
phrase - "room full of girls" and "buses without handbrakes" - spring to
mind. His assessment of our position after a mere handful of games seems
spot on to me and perhaps for now it may be worth taking the OTT Twitter and
FB reactions with the aforementioned pinch of pepper!
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NOBLE INTENTIONS, HARSH REACTIONS
By HamburgHammer 28 Sep 2015 at 08:00
WTID
Mark Noble has done it on Saturday, so why shouldn't I follow suit, hold my
hands up and say, yes, Mark Noble, our new skipper, cost us the three points
against the Canaries.
His overall game was well below par, and remember, the par had been set
pretty high during most of his games for us so far this season, helping us
to win those epic games at Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City.
He giftwrapped the first goal to the opposition by telegraphing a pass to
Tomkins, lacking in care, distance, accuracy and thought, so it was no
surprise to see Norwich pouncing and gratefully delivering the ball into our
net. The second goal showed Noble watching his opponent run, run some more,
put the ball on his favourite foot, pick his spot and score what most would
have thought the winning goal. Thanks to Kouyate's late strike it was indeed
a point well worth respecting for a change.
Mark Noble instantly accepted the blame and held the hands up for his
mistakes while Bilic interestingly enough failed to blame his captain, a
refreshing change to the previous regime. Bilic treats his players with
respect and appears always willing to work on and eradicate mistakes rather
than pointing them out to the media, waving a finger of blame into his
charges' faces.
Browsing through post match reactions on a forum or two on Saturday evening
was not the best idea as I couldn't quite believe what i read from some
folks. Noble being brandished as a Championship player, being good at
nothing but pirouetting in the middle of the pitch, making sideway or
backward passes (most of which apparently directly led to opposition goals).
Noble not being able to pass or tackle. Noble delivering crap corner kicks
and even worse freekicks.
His 'fanclub' just stopped short of criticising his penalty taking and his
handwriting.
Now I have a confession to make. Yes, over the last year or so I was
extremly harsh on our previous skipper Kevin Nolan. I've been criticised for
doing my extensive Nolan watching, my singling him out for everything that
was bad about our football whenever things started looking a bit tosh on the
pitch.
In essence, I tried to argue, I was criticising the manager all this time
for playing his tried and trusted favorite player time and time again in the
hope he could somehow return to his form when he was our leading goalscorer
for two seasons running.
Nolan indeed in his final twelve months at the club rarely convinced on the
pitch, at that point indeed he couldn't run, he couldn't tackle, he didn't
play many key passes, in short: He was a passenger. Bilic was fair enough to
give him a few games at the start of the season to properly evaluate him
upon which both sides decided to part ways.
Noble of course is younger, he's got a long-term contract now (making sure
we get a decent fee in case he schould leave early, but can anyone really
imagine Mr. West Ham leaving for Fulham ? Well, other famous West Ham
players have done that in the past of course, but I reckon Noble could
actually be one of those rare cases of being a career one-team guy (if you
discount his time away on loan).
Noble is our new skipper and in my view he has done us proud so far - being
a human being he had a stinker of a game against Norwich, will hopefully put
it behind him and bounce back, just like our team did on Saturday.
If you compare Noble and Nolan there are quite a few differences insofar as
due to his age Noble's career is still in full swing while Nolan's is coming
to an end. Noble can indeed tackle (sometimes too much), he can still play
key passes and has chipped in with some goals already while his workrate is
second to none. But we have a new manager now, a new mentality and a much
deeper squad.
Which means that even a skipper and Mr. West Ham is no longer untouchable.
Noble will be well aware of that fact. Soon enough Song will be back on the
agenda and I'm sure even Mark Noble would agree that he cannot touch Song in
terms of natural ability, skill and panache.
With Kouyate and Obiang also very much in the picture Noble has his work cut
out for him to keep his place as skipper and starter. Again: Bilic will not
hesitate to go ahead with a Song/Kouyate or Kouyate/Obiang combo if he
reckons it'll give us the best chance of winning.
This is what we as fans always wanted: Competition for places proper and a
manager who doesn't favour players due to nostalgic days spent together at
previous clubs.
I have a strong feeling that Noble will be more than happy to take on this
challenge head on. He will fight for his place and he will be a better and
more mature player for it.
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Away-day specialists West Ham are too ''nervous'' playing in front of home
fans, says keeper Adrian
0 COMMENTS 22:30, 27 SEP 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
Slaven Bilic's side have won at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City this
season but again struggled at Upton Park with a draw against Norwich
The Mirror
Adrian has admitted West Ham prefer playing away from home because of the
"nervous" atmosphere at Upton Park. Slaven Bilic's unpredictable side remain
third in the Premier League after salvaging a late point against stylish
Norwich in a 2-2 draw. But their farewell season at the Boleyn Ground is so
far proving more of an ordeal than a -celebration. And their Spanish keeper
claimed the team, who have won at the Emirates, Anfield and the Etihad,
would prefer not to be playing any more games in their famous old ground.
"For us, I think it is much better to play away from home but you have your
fans here and of course if you play well, the fans are with you," Adrian
said. "But if not, everyone is a little bit nervous. We need a result or to
score first to have our fans with us. "We need to start much better because
we allow the other team to have more confidence and they can score. "Away
from home probably the team play without pressure when you play a big team
as everyone thinks you are going to lose. "But it is not an excuse. We need
to improve here at home and keep going away from home with the same
performances. "What else can we do? We can't play every time away from
home!"
Adrian even produced a face-saving block when he stopped Cameron Jerome's
full-blooded volley with his boat. "I did not have time to put my hands up
so I put my face!" he laughed. The Hammers have increased -expectation of
their fans with their away successes but have picked up only four points in
four matches at home. But Bilic insisted: "We are going to get there. At the
end of the season we will have more home wins than away wins. "But after
beating Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City away, people are expecting us to
beat Norwich 6-0. It doesn't happen like that."
Bilic and Alex Neil have very different backgrounds and appearances. The
Croat, who played in a World Cup semi-final, dons a sharp suit on the
touchline. Canaries boss Alex Neil turned out for Barnsley and Mansfield
and shows his blue-collar roots with his match-day tracksuit. But both men
have teams who produce universally appealing football. "The manager knows
what he wants and what he expects from us. And if we do that right we'll
come away with the results we need," said Norwich's Robbie Brady. "He has us
well-drilled." Mark Noble gave the ball away for Brady's first goal for
Norwich. French playmaker Dimitri Payet set up Diafra Sakho's first leveller
before sub Nathan Redmond scored after 83 minutes. Fellow sub Andy Carroll
caused the confusion to allow to Cheikhou Kouyate to net the injury-time
equaliser.
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Tuesday, September 29
Monday, September 28
Daily WHUFC News - 28th September 2015
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
Following Saturday's 2-2 draw with Norwich City, we've now played seven, have 13 points and are third in the table. Had we won on Saturday we would have been clear in second so it's not a bad start. We know we have got to do a bit better at home as you can't keep relying on winning away like we are. We owe it to the fans as they are selling out every game at the Boleyn and want to see the team win.
I think we're trying a new style and we're trying to pass it out of defence more. Sadly, we've only been trying it for seven games so you sometimes get errors like we saw on Saturday. If it had just been humped down the pitch that probably wouldn't have happened but at the same token we wouldn't be creating so much down the other end if we did that. We are still the joint leading scorers of the Premier League and as the system beds in I'm sure we'll do even better at both ends of the pitch. I think Dimitri Payet's pass for Diafra Sakho's goal was sensational. I love a by-line cross and we didn't get any last year. Sakho took that goal well and maybe should have scored again, when the rebound came back to Cheikhou Kouyate who couldn't turn in. Kouyate then rescued us with the goal at the end. That's three goals he's got this season, even though we didn't buy him to be a goalscorer, so it's great to see.
I just hope we're not too overconfident going to Sunderland on Saturday. We saw what happened with Chelsea when only two late goals got them a point at Newcastle. I'm sure Chelsea will have gone there thinking they would win comfortably and that certainly was not the case.
We would have been targeting four points from the Norwich and Sunderland games so we now have to go to Sunderland and try to get another away win. If we can pull it off, winning four away games on the trot would be an incredible achievement. What's great is that we're scoring goals and if you keep scoring goals you'll end up in a pretty good position. The fans are certainly getting entertaining football and that's great to see for everyone connected with the club.
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From the Terraces - 'Payet's the complete player'
WHUFC.com
Lycamobile representative Marwan Mikdadi named Dimitri Payet Man of the Match for his two assists in Saturday's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw with Norwich City and hopes there is plenty more to come from the Frenchman in Claret and Blue...
It was a great game, end to end stuff and it was lovely to see a fair result in the end, an important equaliser late in the day there!
Those sort of chances don't come along too often in these sort of games and the pressure was on, last seconds, so it was massive that Cheikhou knocked it in.
Another great performance from Dimitri, two assists, two great crosses, so he absolutely deserved the Man of the Match award.
He's settled in so very, very quickly. He's a top player and he's really helped the team do well, two goals against Newcastle a couple of weeks ago made the difference. But he was excellent again on Saturday, a good physical player too.
He's the complete player, a good, good signing and, as I say, hopefully he'll continue like this all the way through the season. You just wonder, absolutely, why hasn't he been noticed earlier, but I'm sure he'll be looking forward to playing at the Olympic Stadium next year.
Overall, it's a really good start, could even have gone top had we won, so it's a good start, obviously Slaven's settled in well, that's made a big difference and all the signings have done well. Long may it continue. Just turn the away form into home form!
The pressure's on because people are going to start talking about Europe, people are going to start talking about what could happen this season, particularly in this special season.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins relieved at last-gasp rescue act
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins admitted to a sense of relief in the dressing room as West Ham United twice came from behind to secure a point against Norwich City on Saturday. Cheikhou Kouyate's stoppage time leveller extended the Hammers' unbeaten run to a fourth game and kept them third in the table, but not before they were given a real scare by newly-promoted Norwich. Goals from Robbie Brady and Nathan Redmond twice had West Ham in difficulty, so defender Tomkins was delighted with the resolve they showed. "We're relieved to come away with a point," he admitted. "They put us under a lot of pressure towards the end of the second half. "They started a lot brighter than us too and got their goals, so we're quite happy to come away with a point even though we obviously wanted three points at the start of the game.
A lot of us were quite heavy-legged having played extra time in the game in midweek. That took it's toll on us and we didn't start the game well. The crowd got behind us and things got easier for us. "We put pressure on them in the second part of the first half and wanted to go out in the second half as we ended the first. I think we did that but didn't get the goal. "They've then scored with a great finish from Redmond and we showed a lot of team spirit to come back with a last-minute goal."
West Ham are third in the league following a strong start, but Tomkins says that does not mean they will rest on their laurels going into next weekend's game at Sunderland. He added: "We're just taking each game as it comes. We've done exceptionally well against the big dogs away from home, but at home against the teams not in that category it's shown that anyone can beat anyone in the Premier League. "Norwich have had a great start and to be honest it's a good point at the end of the day."
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West Ham hopeful Alex Song will be available by late October
Last Updated: 27/09/15 12:28pm
SSN
West Ham are hopeful that summer signing Alex Song will complete his recovery from an ankle injury and be available for selection by late October. The 28-year-old, who spent last season on loan with the Hammers, signed another year-long deal from Barcelona on transfer deadline day, despite carrying the injury. Song underwent surgery in the summer to remove a piece of bone from his ankle and began his rehabilitation with the East London club despite not signing until September 1. He is yet to play for West Ham this term but co-chairman David Gold confirmed on Twitter: "I'm hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to play by the end of October." The Hammers are third in the Premier League after four victories from their opening seven games, including wins away at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City.
Song, who made 31 appearances in all competitions for the club last season, could be available for the home clash with Chelsea on October 24, before they travel to Watford on October 31.
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SHARING THE BLAME
By Mike Ireson 27 Sep 2015 at 17:00
WTID
It's not easy writing here, the quality of articles is so high one can sometimes feel like I did at school. The fat kid at the back of a cross country run desperately trying to keep the skinny good runners in sight.
And this week the stakes were raised when Bianca Westwood casually dropped in the arty glamour pics in to her column. Come on Bee that's like taking the pennies off a dead man's eyes. I have nothing in my locker.
But, always ready for a challenge I commissioned a set of pictures of me draped over a chaise longue and shall add them to the end of the article to get myself back in the game.
Anyway last week I asked if football could learn anything from rugby in terms of discipline. And that side of the game has been on my mind again this week.
In a casual conversation with my wife this week she came up with what I thought was an interesting concept. What if managers were punished along with players for ill-discipline?
So for example if a player is sent off his manager gets a one game touchline ban. How would this effect what we get from mangers at the moment?
You know the stuff, Arsene Wenger fails to see anything to do with his own team, Jose Mourinho cites Diego Costa as man of the match after he had been on a one man Arsenal slapping frenzy etc etc.
How would that change if the managers formed part of the punishment? Would Arsene Wenger miraculously start seeing all the incidents in a game? Would Jose give an honest opinion of his player's actions if it were costing him his place on the touchline?
And what about the players? Would it give them a different mind-set if they knew a sending off would cost their manager and ultimately the rest of the team in future matches?
Would players stop short of some of the nasty tackles and handbags stuff with the opposition if they thought they'd be on for one hell of a rollicking from their manager who would now face a touchline ban?
Imagine if this rule was in place whilst Fergie was still managing? Wouldn't you love to have been a fly on the wall in that dressing room when one of his players had been sent off and had cost Fergie for the next game?
Or would this little experiment have a detrimental effect. For example would we see an increase in diving and play acting to get players sent off.
A team playing their rivals for say the title or in a relegation battle, would they try to get a man sent off to put their rivals at a disadvantage for the next game with their manager in the stands?
Sadly I can see that scenario coming to pass.
There is obviously no easy solution but we need to make managers more accountable for the actions of their players, along with the players setting a better example.
COYI
Oh the photos? Fortunately for you dear reader I was lying on that score :)
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NO HUMBLE PIE FROM DELIA SMITH
By Zaman Siddiqui 27 Sep 2015 at 08:00
WTID
Equaliser 2-2 vs NOR Upton Park 2015
Our match at the King Power Stadium in the English League Cup wasn't in any way ordinary. Both teams were on top form going into the match. The Foxes played very well in their two recent league fixtures to come from 2-0 down in the second half to beat the Villans 3-2 and to draw 2-2 at the Britannia from 2-0 down – that is easier said than done for the Tinkerman. We have added another few pages to the record books beating Arsenal, Liverpool, and City as well as playing more players than any other Premier League team this season. I could speak in prose for the entire duration of the post about the way the two teams have been playing in the league. Six games into the league, we could have expected a few changes from Super Slav like Big Sam did to success getting us to the semi-finals last year. Unfortunately, he went all out with the quality on show only keeping Reid, Kouyaté and Payet on the bench with Sakho not included. Contrast this with Ranieri who made considerably more changes than us. Bilic said that British teams treat the UEFA Champions League and Europa League as a punishment rather than a reward – the insightful Croat isn't wrong. Why go all out knowing you have to play in the most competitive league in a matter of days? This is clearly a passionate response to top-flight team mentality. From that, I feel Bilic genuinely believes that almost all fixtures are of vital importance. He played a meagre side in the Europa League funnily enough, though the blatant reasoning behind that is he wanted to keep a fully fit first team to try and beat Arsenal.
Sky Sports Infographic on Changes
The Canaries have made a pretty good start back in the big time with a well-earned draw at Anfield and a 3-0 win against West Brom. Norwich were definitely going to try and make a strong start given our performance against the "lesser teams." They certainly played well, as this matches was more than just a tale of two keepers. Nonetheless, Adrián and John Ruddy were fantastic. They kept their respective teams in the game throughout with Adrián saving one with his face! The only pertinent error from the two goalkeepers came from Ruddy who should have caught the in-swinging ball in added time from a side that has conceded many goals from set pieces this season. Norwich haven't won at Upton Park since 1989. Kouyaté's goal would have given the Canaries their first win in London in 14 league matches, and our first defeat in 4 matches. Noble was to blame for the loss today though he is not the first player to scorn this season. He was definitely to blame for the first goal, but the others should have been marking the Norwich players instead of standing in the box for the second goal.
Furthermore, that defeat would have given food for thought for Dick Advocaat's Sunderland. Now, I know that Sunderland haven't won any of their seven league matches but whose to say Sunderland can't overcome us in a shock result. We have lost to Leicester City and Bournemouth at home this season, so anything is possible. Like the gaffer says, "There is nothing wrong in gaining confidence … but they [the players] should never forget what they need to do out on the pitch." A single point against the Foxes, Cherries and Canaries suggests that we are not going into the match with the right mentality. We know we are better than these teams though regardless of form, but we need to translate that into points. These bizarre trend will probably go unnoticed by most sports pundits, since they only look at the table, even though they try to reassure us they don't look at the start of the season. Both Tyne and Wear teams are in the relegation zone with Newcastle almost defeating Chelsea on SNF.
We have much more to learn about Bilic's long term plans. Sam Allardyce was very vocal just like the incumbent manager. On the contrary, Big Sam divided the season by points targets. It is fair to say that didn't work out for the latter half last season and the former half of the season before that. Super Slav hasn't made any mention of his managerial tactics unless he wants to avoid adhering to over-simplistic strategies that have very little impact on the season. The Croat comes off as a tad shy, but that doesn't mean he isn't a good manager. You don't have to be a Mourinho to be a superstar manager. For me, Pellegrini and Koeman get good publicity with proper football and the right moves. Koeman's side defeated Swansea 3-1, but said his side can play better. There is no evidence to suggest that Bilic can't follow them, as he doesn't get easily carried away either. We are in 3rd as the highest side to not be from Manchester. I hope that the players keep up their work rates in training preparing for Sunderland. They have been fabulous, although I hope that they don't get carried away. Kouyaté and Reid have gone just a bit under the radar, which is only good for us. The best players are the ones who stand out, but cannot be stopped, in spite of their noticeable tendencies.
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WEST HAM 2, NORWICH CITY 2. ACCEPTABLY FRUSTRATING.
By David Hautzig 26 Sep 2015 at 18:28
WTID
February 11, 2014. West Ham were just beginning their run to safety in a season that had relegation written all over it. A win against Swansea the week before gave a reason for hope. Since Iain only had a vague idea of some twisted Yank that loves West Ham and occasionally blogs, I could turn games off when the pressure was too much to handle. That day, I was driving to my kid's school to pick them up. It was cold, sleeting, and dark. Midway through the second half I couldn't resist and turned the game on using a stream on my IPhone. Nil-nil, but to be fair Norwich had the better chances. I pulled into school in the 75th minute and sat there watching the game, the anxiety so powerful I was still gripping the steering wheel with one hand while holding the phone with the other. As the ball went off Ginge's head and past Ruddy, I began a torrent of screams while punching the inside roof of my Subaru. I was ecstatic and relieved. I felt fandabbydosey. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw two pre-schoolers walking in front of the car with their dad. The children looked quite upset that a man was screaming and thrashing in a car right in front of them. The dad knew me and only laughed. With Spurs win over Citeh in the early game, West Ham had the chance to scream and punch the air as league leaders. Today, I simply patted the couch lightly in relief.
The match started in a rather lively fashion. In the opening moments, Hoolahan beat Jenkinson and sent a cross into the box that Jerome got on the end of, but his header wasn't strong enough to cause Adrian any problems. West Ham came down the other way when Payet fed Sakho but his shot went out for a corner. Minutes later, Payet took a free kick and found Kouyate in the box but it went off his chest and was handled easily by Ruddy.
Slaven Bilic has made an unusual number of comments on the importance of throw ins. In the 9th minute, it wasn't the throw that caused a problem. It was the pass that immediately followed it. Cresswell threw to Noble, who tried one of the things his youth coaches probably told him not to do. A square, cross field pass deep in his own half. It had no pace, leaving Tomkins no hope of getting to it. Brady did, and he calmly strode in on goal and slid it past Adrian. Yet another horrible defensive mistake at home.
West Ham 0, Norwich 1.
In the 15th minute, Norwich had an opportunity to double their advantage when Dorrans found Whittaker on the right side of the West Ham penalty area. If he had taken the shot on his right foot it may have been 2-0. Instead he cut back to his left giving West Ham time to get back in position and Kouyate blocked the shot out for a corner, which West Ham dealt with.
In the 19th minute, the visitors had the first of a few first half opportunities to double their lead. Olsson made a run down the left and found Howson a few yards out from goal. But with time and space, he rushed and lifted his shot high. The next opportunity came five minutes later when Brady found Jerome on the left. With Brady streaking into the box, Jerome instead tried to beat Adrian at the near post but hit the side netting. West Ham were very, very fortunate not to be down two, if not three less than half an hour into the match.
Then it was West Ham's turn to waste opportunities. In the 30th minute, Kouyate broke down the right and found Lanzini in the middle. Lanzini is nicknamed The Jewel because he's talented with the ball at his feet. But instead of using that talent, he took a few strides in and fired a shot high over the bar. Minutes later Moses had the ball in an area where he could have done some damage. Instead his cross was slow and predictable and Norwich cleared easily.
I played basketball in school. I'm 5'7" at best, so my future wasn't there. One game, we played against a friend of mine that went to the other school. He was very good. Early in the game, I was dribbling up the court but my eyes were focused on the floor ahead of me. "Keep your head up, Dave. Gotta watch where you're going" said my friend, "guarding" me. He easily could have stripped me of the ball. As simple as that sounds, I have yet to see Payet send a blind cross into the box. In the 33rd minute, Sakho fed Payet down the right and made a run into the box. Payet dribbled into the box and picked out Sakho in between two defenders, and the game was level.
West Ham 1, Norwich 1.
Not surprisingly, the goal raised the enthusiasm of the players and the crowd. In the 35th minute, Payet made a darting and swerving run that required a foul to stop him. Norwich obliged, and Lanzini's free kick curled just wide of the post. Minutes later, Lanzini made a run down the left and cut the ball back to Payet whose shot was deflected out for the first of two corners. The pressure ended after Moses crossed to Sakho, but his scissor went over the bar. Then, a few minutes before Halftime, Lanzini and Cresswell combined on the left to win another corner, which Reid got on the end of but his header was no trouble for Ruddy.
Halftime. West Ham 1, Norwich 1.
You know how I'm quick to point out when a player shoots too quickly when better options are available? It works both ways. In the 48th minute, Moses got on the end of some tidy passing outside the Norwich penalty area. With space in front of him, he moved to the top of the area. But instead of letting it rip, he kept trying to dribble through the last line of defense and lost possession.
Norwich had a solid chance to regain the lead in the 50th minute when Howson got the ball at the top of the area. His curling effort looked destined for the back of the net before Adrian got a hand on it to tip it over the bar. West Ham came down the other way minutes later and earned a free kick when Bassong's forehead fouled the back of Kouyate's head. In a game where Mike Dean was once again showing how awful he can be, this was one bad call that went West Ham's way. Payet took the free kick and his long pass found Sakho, but his header was easy for Ruddy to handle.
It's clear that Bilic wants the ball played on the floor whenever possible. Sometimes it's clear that it's still a work in process. In the 54th minute, Kouyate and Sakho broke into the Norwich half on a two on two. But instead of spreading wide to give the defenders ground to cover, they got in each others way and Norwich were able to re-organize and gain possession.
Brief interruption to today's match report to acknowledge Howson for saving a stray pigeon from sure doom and carrying him safely to the sideline. We now resume our regular programming.
In the 56th minute, West Ham should have taken the lead when Moses ran down the ball on the right side of the Norwich area. His cross found Sakho right in front of Ruddy. But that's exactly where Sakho put his header, right at Ruddy. The rebound came to Kouyate but he mis-hit his shot and it sailed out for a goal kick. Four minutes later, West Ham again came close when Sakho fed Payet at the top of the box. Payet tried to beat Ruddy into the bottom right had corner, but the keeper did very well to get down and push the shot out for a corner that West Ham made nothing of.
Norwich took their turn in the end to end action in the 62nd minute when Dorrans did well to chase down a ball at the West Ham touch line and send a ball back into the box. Jerome was there to meet it and hit a volley directly into Adrian's face. It bounced out, and with Adrian woozy if not worse Whittaker sent a sharp angled cross from the right that just eluded Jerome and went out for goal kick.
When Redmond came on in the 69th minute, I knew if anybody were to beat us late in the game it would be him. He's clever on the ball. Sneaky, even. In the 81st minute, Obiang made a silly challenge on Hoolahan, giving Norwich a free kick at the top of the area. Brady took the set piece, and while his shot looked to be going wide Adrian took no chances and palmed it out for a corner. The ball eventually found Redmond on the left. Noble backed up and allowed Redmond to get the ball on his right foot. His shot went through a crowd cleanly and into the back of the net.
West Ham 1, Norwich 2.
West Ham pressed for the equalizer, adding Zarate to Carroll as attacking substitutions. In the 90th minute, Sakho put a shot goalbound that got past Ruddy but was cleared off the line by Martin. Moments later Payet found Carroll who went right to left in the box. But when an old fashioned AC header might have beaten Ruddy, Carroll tried to control the ball with his feet and Ruddy smothered it.
In the second to last minute of added on time, Tettey committed a silly foul on Reid, giving West Ham a free kick. Payet lofted the ball towards the goalmouth. Ruddy tried to beat Carroll to the ball, but his punch went directly to Kouyate and he slammed it home for an equalizer close to the death.
Final Score. West Ham 2, Norwich City 2.
After the Bournemouth match, I called Nigel Kahn. I figured he'd be great to commiserate with on the mess we thought we were in. He's never happy, right? So we can rant together. "Look, it was a bad day at the office. And we still won both second halves of the games we lost" he said. At the time, there was no way I was going to be knocked off my perch of misery. We were doomed, and staying up was the best we could hope for. Well, we still have not lost a second half in the league, and Leicester needed the 116th minute in The League Cup. So tactically, Bilic seems to read a game and well and make necessary adjustments. As great as the away wins have been, anybody but the truly deluded knows we will drop points we expect to get. Norwich have been excellent away from home as well, so credit to them for playing their part in a pretty entertaining match.
Forgive me if I'll respect this point, even if I wanted more.
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Unsung Kouyate rivals Payet and Sakho
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Dimtri Payet seems to get all the media attention this season with his impressive record of three goals and three assists. But the Payet attention has overshadowed the amazing start to the season by one Cheikhou Kouyate. Let's not forget that Kouyate is essentially a defensive midfielder yet yesterday he equalled the Frenchman's tally of three goals and is just one assist behind the playmaker in the seven Premier league games he has played this season.
The Senegalese midfielder scored important goals against Arsenal, Bournemouth and Norwich this season. The 25 year old midfielder has almost equaled his record from last season when he scored four goals against Arsenal, Spurs, Manchester United and Leicester City and made two assists.
Although Payet and Sakho grab all the headlines, I think Cheik Kouyate is making a bold early show for early Hammer of the year contention. Yesterday Mr Kouyate rescued a point for the Hammers with a stoppage time equaliser in the 2-2 draw against Norwich at the Boleyn Groun d. Cheik, we salute you!
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Adrian tweets his feelings on the draw
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Apart from Diafra Sakho there was one other player who more than deserved a result from today's clash against under-rated Norwich City.
Maybe after last weekend's heroics, the Irons expected a more comfortable afternoon against the Canaries. One man most certainly did not – goalkeeper Adrian. The stopper added to his cult hero Upton Park status with another series of top class saves after his fabulous but losing performance against Leicester City in the Capital One Cup. One second half from Cameron Jerome almost took his head off his shoulders in the second half leaving him with nose bleed and stars in his eyes. But he was on his feet in a flash and after wiping his face over with a towel he was back on his feet ready to see things out and despite the game looking to be heading down the toilet eventually got his just deserts. And after the game he made his feelings clear on Twitter declaring: " Adrián San Miguel @AdriSanMiguel 2 hrs2 hours ago We could win and also lose today but the team have fought until the end to get a positive & good pointšThis is the way
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DS "new style" point packs a punch
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan has a reputation for shooting off at the lip. In fact most of the time he's pretty restrained and getting a hard and fast public view can be pretty tough going. Ok there were the well publicised Charlie Austin quotes which in reality were all pretty harmless anyway but he has yet, for example, to reacted to anything Sam Allardyce has had to say about his time at the club. I doubt very much indeed that he will even should there be inflammatory stuff in the upcoming book. It really isn't his style – why does he need to?
Tonight, though, he makes what I found an amusing comment in his 'From the Boardroom' column on the official website when revealing that we are trying a new approach. He says: "I think we're trying a new style and we're trying to pass it out of defence more. Sadly, we've only been trying it for seven games so you sometimes get errors like we saw on Saturday. If it (Mark Noble's loose pass) had just been humped down the pitch that probably wouldn't have happened but at the same token we wouldn't be creating so much down the other end if we did that."
Whoa! Sometimes you don't need to get bang into someone's face to make your point to do you? Were you listening Sam because I certainly was and it put me in my place. For last night I wrote in pretty damning terms that Mark really needed to get his passing act together if he wasn't to find himself in danger particularly when Alex Song is fit. But Sullivan makes a very good point indeed – we are now playing to feet all over the park and after four years of the other stuff it obviously takes some getting used to.
Point made point taken!
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Sullivan's Sunderland warning
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan explained to ClaretandHugh a few days ago that so long as we are scoring goals we will win a lot of games and he's not wrong of course.
It's as close as David will get to making any predictions as to how things will work out over the long haul but there's no question he's enjoying the football the team is serving up.
However, to reach a short term target of four points from the Norwich and Sunderland games we now need three at Sunderland at the weekend.
And he warns against overconfidence as we go to Sunderland at the weekend telling the official site: "We saw what happened with Chelsea when only two late goals got them a point at Newcastle. "I'm sure Chelsea will have gone there thinking they would win comfortably and that certainly was not the case."
He's right to be cautious because at some stage the Black Cats are likely to hit a run of form although thus far this season they have looked a very poor side who make plenty of mistakes as demonstrated in their three goal drubbing at Old Trafford on Saturday.
However, with a week's rest behind the lads, rather than three days following the Leicester City defeat we will be in top shape again and a fourth away win is on the agenda.
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Sak gets another massive accolade
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has revealed his "utmost admiration " for Diafra Sakho after the striker's extraordinary display against Norwich City yesterday. Despite playing whilst on police bail, the striker is playing without a hint of mental concern and drawing many plaudits from the terraces and pundits alike. And to set the record straight a spokesman has explained to one national newspaper that he has not been charged with any offence and denies all allegations made against him." Sak was amazing as line leader against the Canaries, scored a goal, missed another and was constantly attempting to make things happen. And Gold told ClaretandHugh exclusively: "He's an extraordinary player. He gives absolutely everything. He didn't stop from beginning to end. It really was a magnificent performance. It's hard not to speak too highly of him. "He was often surrounded in the penalty area but always found an out ball and constantly created problems for the defenders. I'm a huge admirer of the lad's. "I have the utmost admiration for him – he's been excellent throughout the season so far. He seems to get better all the time."
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DG hands critic quick-fire Norwich answer
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has spent his Sunday morning righting a few misapprehensions and bringing much needed news to Hammers fans following yesterday's draws. Unbelievably an impression appears to remain among some that there are easy Premier League games – a false reality the co chairman was keen to explode. Confronted by one follower who claimed of Norwich: "Should be well clear of them, but can't beat the easy teams at home! he responded: " There are no easy teams in the Premier League it's a thin line between winning and losing. dg"
Amazingly the original critical tweet had been favourited 34 times and retweeted five times despite the Canaries being strong, well organised and boasting a decent away record. Earlier – clearly in cheeky mood the chairman had declared: "West Ham are only just above Arsenal Tottenham and Chelsea. " And speaking to ClaretandHugh he said: "We've have been below them for so log. we have to remind them now, don't we. It goes with the territory." In a separate tweet on Alex Song's fitness DG said: I'm hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to play by the end of October. dg"
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WHUFC.com
Following Saturday's 2-2 draw with Norwich City, we've now played seven, have 13 points and are third in the table. Had we won on Saturday we would have been clear in second so it's not a bad start. We know we have got to do a bit better at home as you can't keep relying on winning away like we are. We owe it to the fans as they are selling out every game at the Boleyn and want to see the team win.
I think we're trying a new style and we're trying to pass it out of defence more. Sadly, we've only been trying it for seven games so you sometimes get errors like we saw on Saturday. If it had just been humped down the pitch that probably wouldn't have happened but at the same token we wouldn't be creating so much down the other end if we did that. We are still the joint leading scorers of the Premier League and as the system beds in I'm sure we'll do even better at both ends of the pitch. I think Dimitri Payet's pass for Diafra Sakho's goal was sensational. I love a by-line cross and we didn't get any last year. Sakho took that goal well and maybe should have scored again, when the rebound came back to Cheikhou Kouyate who couldn't turn in. Kouyate then rescued us with the goal at the end. That's three goals he's got this season, even though we didn't buy him to be a goalscorer, so it's great to see.
I just hope we're not too overconfident going to Sunderland on Saturday. We saw what happened with Chelsea when only two late goals got them a point at Newcastle. I'm sure Chelsea will have gone there thinking they would win comfortably and that certainly was not the case.
We would have been targeting four points from the Norwich and Sunderland games so we now have to go to Sunderland and try to get another away win. If we can pull it off, winning four away games on the trot would be an incredible achievement. What's great is that we're scoring goals and if you keep scoring goals you'll end up in a pretty good position. The fans are certainly getting entertaining football and that's great to see for everyone connected with the club.
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From the Terraces - 'Payet's the complete player'
WHUFC.com
Lycamobile representative Marwan Mikdadi named Dimitri Payet Man of the Match for his two assists in Saturday's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw with Norwich City and hopes there is plenty more to come from the Frenchman in Claret and Blue...
It was a great game, end to end stuff and it was lovely to see a fair result in the end, an important equaliser late in the day there!
Those sort of chances don't come along too often in these sort of games and the pressure was on, last seconds, so it was massive that Cheikhou knocked it in.
Another great performance from Dimitri, two assists, two great crosses, so he absolutely deserved the Man of the Match award.
He's settled in so very, very quickly. He's a top player and he's really helped the team do well, two goals against Newcastle a couple of weeks ago made the difference. But he was excellent again on Saturday, a good physical player too.
He's the complete player, a good, good signing and, as I say, hopefully he'll continue like this all the way through the season. You just wonder, absolutely, why hasn't he been noticed earlier, but I'm sure he'll be looking forward to playing at the Olympic Stadium next year.
Overall, it's a really good start, could even have gone top had we won, so it's a good start, obviously Slaven's settled in well, that's made a big difference and all the signings have done well. Long may it continue. Just turn the away form into home form!
The pressure's on because people are going to start talking about Europe, people are going to start talking about what could happen this season, particularly in this special season.
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Tomkins relieved at last-gasp rescue act
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins admitted to a sense of relief in the dressing room as West Ham United twice came from behind to secure a point against Norwich City on Saturday. Cheikhou Kouyate's stoppage time leveller extended the Hammers' unbeaten run to a fourth game and kept them third in the table, but not before they were given a real scare by newly-promoted Norwich. Goals from Robbie Brady and Nathan Redmond twice had West Ham in difficulty, so defender Tomkins was delighted with the resolve they showed. "We're relieved to come away with a point," he admitted. "They put us under a lot of pressure towards the end of the second half. "They started a lot brighter than us too and got their goals, so we're quite happy to come away with a point even though we obviously wanted three points at the start of the game.
A lot of us were quite heavy-legged having played extra time in the game in midweek. That took it's toll on us and we didn't start the game well. The crowd got behind us and things got easier for us. "We put pressure on them in the second part of the first half and wanted to go out in the second half as we ended the first. I think we did that but didn't get the goal. "They've then scored with a great finish from Redmond and we showed a lot of team spirit to come back with a last-minute goal."
West Ham are third in the league following a strong start, but Tomkins says that does not mean they will rest on their laurels going into next weekend's game at Sunderland. He added: "We're just taking each game as it comes. We've done exceptionally well against the big dogs away from home, but at home against the teams not in that category it's shown that anyone can beat anyone in the Premier League. "Norwich have had a great start and to be honest it's a good point at the end of the day."
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West Ham hopeful Alex Song will be available by late October
Last Updated: 27/09/15 12:28pm
SSN
West Ham are hopeful that summer signing Alex Song will complete his recovery from an ankle injury and be available for selection by late October. The 28-year-old, who spent last season on loan with the Hammers, signed another year-long deal from Barcelona on transfer deadline day, despite carrying the injury. Song underwent surgery in the summer to remove a piece of bone from his ankle and began his rehabilitation with the East London club despite not signing until September 1. He is yet to play for West Ham this term but co-chairman David Gold confirmed on Twitter: "I'm hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to play by the end of October." The Hammers are third in the Premier League after four victories from their opening seven games, including wins away at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City.
Song, who made 31 appearances in all competitions for the club last season, could be available for the home clash with Chelsea on October 24, before they travel to Watford on October 31.
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SHARING THE BLAME
By Mike Ireson 27 Sep 2015 at 17:00
WTID
It's not easy writing here, the quality of articles is so high one can sometimes feel like I did at school. The fat kid at the back of a cross country run desperately trying to keep the skinny good runners in sight.
And this week the stakes were raised when Bianca Westwood casually dropped in the arty glamour pics in to her column. Come on Bee that's like taking the pennies off a dead man's eyes. I have nothing in my locker.
But, always ready for a challenge I commissioned a set of pictures of me draped over a chaise longue and shall add them to the end of the article to get myself back in the game.
Anyway last week I asked if football could learn anything from rugby in terms of discipline. And that side of the game has been on my mind again this week.
In a casual conversation with my wife this week she came up with what I thought was an interesting concept. What if managers were punished along with players for ill-discipline?
So for example if a player is sent off his manager gets a one game touchline ban. How would this effect what we get from mangers at the moment?
You know the stuff, Arsene Wenger fails to see anything to do with his own team, Jose Mourinho cites Diego Costa as man of the match after he had been on a one man Arsenal slapping frenzy etc etc.
How would that change if the managers formed part of the punishment? Would Arsene Wenger miraculously start seeing all the incidents in a game? Would Jose give an honest opinion of his player's actions if it were costing him his place on the touchline?
And what about the players? Would it give them a different mind-set if they knew a sending off would cost their manager and ultimately the rest of the team in future matches?
Would players stop short of some of the nasty tackles and handbags stuff with the opposition if they thought they'd be on for one hell of a rollicking from their manager who would now face a touchline ban?
Imagine if this rule was in place whilst Fergie was still managing? Wouldn't you love to have been a fly on the wall in that dressing room when one of his players had been sent off and had cost Fergie for the next game?
Or would this little experiment have a detrimental effect. For example would we see an increase in diving and play acting to get players sent off.
A team playing their rivals for say the title or in a relegation battle, would they try to get a man sent off to put their rivals at a disadvantage for the next game with their manager in the stands?
Sadly I can see that scenario coming to pass.
There is obviously no easy solution but we need to make managers more accountable for the actions of their players, along with the players setting a better example.
COYI
Oh the photos? Fortunately for you dear reader I was lying on that score :)
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NO HUMBLE PIE FROM DELIA SMITH
By Zaman Siddiqui 27 Sep 2015 at 08:00
WTID
Equaliser 2-2 vs NOR Upton Park 2015
Our match at the King Power Stadium in the English League Cup wasn't in any way ordinary. Both teams were on top form going into the match. The Foxes played very well in their two recent league fixtures to come from 2-0 down in the second half to beat the Villans 3-2 and to draw 2-2 at the Britannia from 2-0 down – that is easier said than done for the Tinkerman. We have added another few pages to the record books beating Arsenal, Liverpool, and City as well as playing more players than any other Premier League team this season. I could speak in prose for the entire duration of the post about the way the two teams have been playing in the league. Six games into the league, we could have expected a few changes from Super Slav like Big Sam did to success getting us to the semi-finals last year. Unfortunately, he went all out with the quality on show only keeping Reid, Kouyaté and Payet on the bench with Sakho not included. Contrast this with Ranieri who made considerably more changes than us. Bilic said that British teams treat the UEFA Champions League and Europa League as a punishment rather than a reward – the insightful Croat isn't wrong. Why go all out knowing you have to play in the most competitive league in a matter of days? This is clearly a passionate response to top-flight team mentality. From that, I feel Bilic genuinely believes that almost all fixtures are of vital importance. He played a meagre side in the Europa League funnily enough, though the blatant reasoning behind that is he wanted to keep a fully fit first team to try and beat Arsenal.
Sky Sports Infographic on Changes
The Canaries have made a pretty good start back in the big time with a well-earned draw at Anfield and a 3-0 win against West Brom. Norwich were definitely going to try and make a strong start given our performance against the "lesser teams." They certainly played well, as this matches was more than just a tale of two keepers. Nonetheless, Adrián and John Ruddy were fantastic. They kept their respective teams in the game throughout with Adrián saving one with his face! The only pertinent error from the two goalkeepers came from Ruddy who should have caught the in-swinging ball in added time from a side that has conceded many goals from set pieces this season. Norwich haven't won at Upton Park since 1989. Kouyaté's goal would have given the Canaries their first win in London in 14 league matches, and our first defeat in 4 matches. Noble was to blame for the loss today though he is not the first player to scorn this season. He was definitely to blame for the first goal, but the others should have been marking the Norwich players instead of standing in the box for the second goal.
Furthermore, that defeat would have given food for thought for Dick Advocaat's Sunderland. Now, I know that Sunderland haven't won any of their seven league matches but whose to say Sunderland can't overcome us in a shock result. We have lost to Leicester City and Bournemouth at home this season, so anything is possible. Like the gaffer says, "There is nothing wrong in gaining confidence … but they [the players] should never forget what they need to do out on the pitch." A single point against the Foxes, Cherries and Canaries suggests that we are not going into the match with the right mentality. We know we are better than these teams though regardless of form, but we need to translate that into points. These bizarre trend will probably go unnoticed by most sports pundits, since they only look at the table, even though they try to reassure us they don't look at the start of the season. Both Tyne and Wear teams are in the relegation zone with Newcastle almost defeating Chelsea on SNF.
We have much more to learn about Bilic's long term plans. Sam Allardyce was very vocal just like the incumbent manager. On the contrary, Big Sam divided the season by points targets. It is fair to say that didn't work out for the latter half last season and the former half of the season before that. Super Slav hasn't made any mention of his managerial tactics unless he wants to avoid adhering to over-simplistic strategies that have very little impact on the season. The Croat comes off as a tad shy, but that doesn't mean he isn't a good manager. You don't have to be a Mourinho to be a superstar manager. For me, Pellegrini and Koeman get good publicity with proper football and the right moves. Koeman's side defeated Swansea 3-1, but said his side can play better. There is no evidence to suggest that Bilic can't follow them, as he doesn't get easily carried away either. We are in 3rd as the highest side to not be from Manchester. I hope that the players keep up their work rates in training preparing for Sunderland. They have been fabulous, although I hope that they don't get carried away. Kouyaté and Reid have gone just a bit under the radar, which is only good for us. The best players are the ones who stand out, but cannot be stopped, in spite of their noticeable tendencies.
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WEST HAM 2, NORWICH CITY 2. ACCEPTABLY FRUSTRATING.
By David Hautzig 26 Sep 2015 at 18:28
WTID
February 11, 2014. West Ham were just beginning their run to safety in a season that had relegation written all over it. A win against Swansea the week before gave a reason for hope. Since Iain only had a vague idea of some twisted Yank that loves West Ham and occasionally blogs, I could turn games off when the pressure was too much to handle. That day, I was driving to my kid's school to pick them up. It was cold, sleeting, and dark. Midway through the second half I couldn't resist and turned the game on using a stream on my IPhone. Nil-nil, but to be fair Norwich had the better chances. I pulled into school in the 75th minute and sat there watching the game, the anxiety so powerful I was still gripping the steering wheel with one hand while holding the phone with the other. As the ball went off Ginge's head and past Ruddy, I began a torrent of screams while punching the inside roof of my Subaru. I was ecstatic and relieved. I felt fandabbydosey. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw two pre-schoolers walking in front of the car with their dad. The children looked quite upset that a man was screaming and thrashing in a car right in front of them. The dad knew me and only laughed. With Spurs win over Citeh in the early game, West Ham had the chance to scream and punch the air as league leaders. Today, I simply patted the couch lightly in relief.
The match started in a rather lively fashion. In the opening moments, Hoolahan beat Jenkinson and sent a cross into the box that Jerome got on the end of, but his header wasn't strong enough to cause Adrian any problems. West Ham came down the other way when Payet fed Sakho but his shot went out for a corner. Minutes later, Payet took a free kick and found Kouyate in the box but it went off his chest and was handled easily by Ruddy.
Slaven Bilic has made an unusual number of comments on the importance of throw ins. In the 9th minute, it wasn't the throw that caused a problem. It was the pass that immediately followed it. Cresswell threw to Noble, who tried one of the things his youth coaches probably told him not to do. A square, cross field pass deep in his own half. It had no pace, leaving Tomkins no hope of getting to it. Brady did, and he calmly strode in on goal and slid it past Adrian. Yet another horrible defensive mistake at home.
West Ham 0, Norwich 1.
In the 15th minute, Norwich had an opportunity to double their advantage when Dorrans found Whittaker on the right side of the West Ham penalty area. If he had taken the shot on his right foot it may have been 2-0. Instead he cut back to his left giving West Ham time to get back in position and Kouyate blocked the shot out for a corner, which West Ham dealt with.
In the 19th minute, the visitors had the first of a few first half opportunities to double their lead. Olsson made a run down the left and found Howson a few yards out from goal. But with time and space, he rushed and lifted his shot high. The next opportunity came five minutes later when Brady found Jerome on the left. With Brady streaking into the box, Jerome instead tried to beat Adrian at the near post but hit the side netting. West Ham were very, very fortunate not to be down two, if not three less than half an hour into the match.
Then it was West Ham's turn to waste opportunities. In the 30th minute, Kouyate broke down the right and found Lanzini in the middle. Lanzini is nicknamed The Jewel because he's talented with the ball at his feet. But instead of using that talent, he took a few strides in and fired a shot high over the bar. Minutes later Moses had the ball in an area where he could have done some damage. Instead his cross was slow and predictable and Norwich cleared easily.
I played basketball in school. I'm 5'7" at best, so my future wasn't there. One game, we played against a friend of mine that went to the other school. He was very good. Early in the game, I was dribbling up the court but my eyes were focused on the floor ahead of me. "Keep your head up, Dave. Gotta watch where you're going" said my friend, "guarding" me. He easily could have stripped me of the ball. As simple as that sounds, I have yet to see Payet send a blind cross into the box. In the 33rd minute, Sakho fed Payet down the right and made a run into the box. Payet dribbled into the box and picked out Sakho in between two defenders, and the game was level.
West Ham 1, Norwich 1.
Not surprisingly, the goal raised the enthusiasm of the players and the crowd. In the 35th minute, Payet made a darting and swerving run that required a foul to stop him. Norwich obliged, and Lanzini's free kick curled just wide of the post. Minutes later, Lanzini made a run down the left and cut the ball back to Payet whose shot was deflected out for the first of two corners. The pressure ended after Moses crossed to Sakho, but his scissor went over the bar. Then, a few minutes before Halftime, Lanzini and Cresswell combined on the left to win another corner, which Reid got on the end of but his header was no trouble for Ruddy.
Halftime. West Ham 1, Norwich 1.
You know how I'm quick to point out when a player shoots too quickly when better options are available? It works both ways. In the 48th minute, Moses got on the end of some tidy passing outside the Norwich penalty area. With space in front of him, he moved to the top of the area. But instead of letting it rip, he kept trying to dribble through the last line of defense and lost possession.
Norwich had a solid chance to regain the lead in the 50th minute when Howson got the ball at the top of the area. His curling effort looked destined for the back of the net before Adrian got a hand on it to tip it over the bar. West Ham came down the other way minutes later and earned a free kick when Bassong's forehead fouled the back of Kouyate's head. In a game where Mike Dean was once again showing how awful he can be, this was one bad call that went West Ham's way. Payet took the free kick and his long pass found Sakho, but his header was easy for Ruddy to handle.
It's clear that Bilic wants the ball played on the floor whenever possible. Sometimes it's clear that it's still a work in process. In the 54th minute, Kouyate and Sakho broke into the Norwich half on a two on two. But instead of spreading wide to give the defenders ground to cover, they got in each others way and Norwich were able to re-organize and gain possession.
Brief interruption to today's match report to acknowledge Howson for saving a stray pigeon from sure doom and carrying him safely to the sideline. We now resume our regular programming.
In the 56th minute, West Ham should have taken the lead when Moses ran down the ball on the right side of the Norwich area. His cross found Sakho right in front of Ruddy. But that's exactly where Sakho put his header, right at Ruddy. The rebound came to Kouyate but he mis-hit his shot and it sailed out for a goal kick. Four minutes later, West Ham again came close when Sakho fed Payet at the top of the box. Payet tried to beat Ruddy into the bottom right had corner, but the keeper did very well to get down and push the shot out for a corner that West Ham made nothing of.
Norwich took their turn in the end to end action in the 62nd minute when Dorrans did well to chase down a ball at the West Ham touch line and send a ball back into the box. Jerome was there to meet it and hit a volley directly into Adrian's face. It bounced out, and with Adrian woozy if not worse Whittaker sent a sharp angled cross from the right that just eluded Jerome and went out for goal kick.
When Redmond came on in the 69th minute, I knew if anybody were to beat us late in the game it would be him. He's clever on the ball. Sneaky, even. In the 81st minute, Obiang made a silly challenge on Hoolahan, giving Norwich a free kick at the top of the area. Brady took the set piece, and while his shot looked to be going wide Adrian took no chances and palmed it out for a corner. The ball eventually found Redmond on the left. Noble backed up and allowed Redmond to get the ball on his right foot. His shot went through a crowd cleanly and into the back of the net.
West Ham 1, Norwich 2.
West Ham pressed for the equalizer, adding Zarate to Carroll as attacking substitutions. In the 90th minute, Sakho put a shot goalbound that got past Ruddy but was cleared off the line by Martin. Moments later Payet found Carroll who went right to left in the box. But when an old fashioned AC header might have beaten Ruddy, Carroll tried to control the ball with his feet and Ruddy smothered it.
In the second to last minute of added on time, Tettey committed a silly foul on Reid, giving West Ham a free kick. Payet lofted the ball towards the goalmouth. Ruddy tried to beat Carroll to the ball, but his punch went directly to Kouyate and he slammed it home for an equalizer close to the death.
Final Score. West Ham 2, Norwich City 2.
After the Bournemouth match, I called Nigel Kahn. I figured he'd be great to commiserate with on the mess we thought we were in. He's never happy, right? So we can rant together. "Look, it was a bad day at the office. And we still won both second halves of the games we lost" he said. At the time, there was no way I was going to be knocked off my perch of misery. We were doomed, and staying up was the best we could hope for. Well, we still have not lost a second half in the league, and Leicester needed the 116th minute in The League Cup. So tactically, Bilic seems to read a game and well and make necessary adjustments. As great as the away wins have been, anybody but the truly deluded knows we will drop points we expect to get. Norwich have been excellent away from home as well, so credit to them for playing their part in a pretty entertaining match.
Forgive me if I'll respect this point, even if I wanted more.
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Unsung Kouyate rivals Payet and Sakho
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Dimtri Payet seems to get all the media attention this season with his impressive record of three goals and three assists. But the Payet attention has overshadowed the amazing start to the season by one Cheikhou Kouyate. Let's not forget that Kouyate is essentially a defensive midfielder yet yesterday he equalled the Frenchman's tally of three goals and is just one assist behind the playmaker in the seven Premier league games he has played this season.
The Senegalese midfielder scored important goals against Arsenal, Bournemouth and Norwich this season. The 25 year old midfielder has almost equaled his record from last season when he scored four goals against Arsenal, Spurs, Manchester United and Leicester City and made two assists.
Although Payet and Sakho grab all the headlines, I think Cheik Kouyate is making a bold early show for early Hammer of the year contention. Yesterday Mr Kouyate rescued a point for the Hammers with a stoppage time equaliser in the 2-2 draw against Norwich at the Boleyn Groun d. Cheik, we salute you!
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Adrian tweets his feelings on the draw
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Apart from Diafra Sakho there was one other player who more than deserved a result from today's clash against under-rated Norwich City.
Maybe after last weekend's heroics, the Irons expected a more comfortable afternoon against the Canaries. One man most certainly did not – goalkeeper Adrian. The stopper added to his cult hero Upton Park status with another series of top class saves after his fabulous but losing performance against Leicester City in the Capital One Cup. One second half from Cameron Jerome almost took his head off his shoulders in the second half leaving him with nose bleed and stars in his eyes. But he was on his feet in a flash and after wiping his face over with a towel he was back on his feet ready to see things out and despite the game looking to be heading down the toilet eventually got his just deserts. And after the game he made his feelings clear on Twitter declaring: " Adrián San Miguel @AdriSanMiguel 2 hrs2 hours ago We could win and also lose today but the team have fought until the end to get a positive & good pointšThis is the way
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DS "new style" point packs a punch
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan has a reputation for shooting off at the lip. In fact most of the time he's pretty restrained and getting a hard and fast public view can be pretty tough going. Ok there were the well publicised Charlie Austin quotes which in reality were all pretty harmless anyway but he has yet, for example, to reacted to anything Sam Allardyce has had to say about his time at the club. I doubt very much indeed that he will even should there be inflammatory stuff in the upcoming book. It really isn't his style – why does he need to?
Tonight, though, he makes what I found an amusing comment in his 'From the Boardroom' column on the official website when revealing that we are trying a new approach. He says: "I think we're trying a new style and we're trying to pass it out of defence more. Sadly, we've only been trying it for seven games so you sometimes get errors like we saw on Saturday. If it (Mark Noble's loose pass) had just been humped down the pitch that probably wouldn't have happened but at the same token we wouldn't be creating so much down the other end if we did that."
Whoa! Sometimes you don't need to get bang into someone's face to make your point to do you? Were you listening Sam because I certainly was and it put me in my place. For last night I wrote in pretty damning terms that Mark really needed to get his passing act together if he wasn't to find himself in danger particularly when Alex Song is fit. But Sullivan makes a very good point indeed – we are now playing to feet all over the park and after four years of the other stuff it obviously takes some getting used to.
Point made point taken!
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Sullivan's Sunderland warning
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Sullivan explained to ClaretandHugh a few days ago that so long as we are scoring goals we will win a lot of games and he's not wrong of course.
It's as close as David will get to making any predictions as to how things will work out over the long haul but there's no question he's enjoying the football the team is serving up.
However, to reach a short term target of four points from the Norwich and Sunderland games we now need three at Sunderland at the weekend.
And he warns against overconfidence as we go to Sunderland at the weekend telling the official site: "We saw what happened with Chelsea when only two late goals got them a point at Newcastle. "I'm sure Chelsea will have gone there thinking they would win comfortably and that certainly was not the case."
He's right to be cautious because at some stage the Black Cats are likely to hit a run of form although thus far this season they have looked a very poor side who make plenty of mistakes as demonstrated in their three goal drubbing at Old Trafford on Saturday.
However, with a week's rest behind the lads, rather than three days following the Leicester City defeat we will be in top shape again and a fourth away win is on the agenda.
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Sak gets another massive accolade
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has revealed his "utmost admiration " for Diafra Sakho after the striker's extraordinary display against Norwich City yesterday. Despite playing whilst on police bail, the striker is playing without a hint of mental concern and drawing many plaudits from the terraces and pundits alike. And to set the record straight a spokesman has explained to one national newspaper that he has not been charged with any offence and denies all allegations made against him." Sak was amazing as line leader against the Canaries, scored a goal, missed another and was constantly attempting to make things happen. And Gold told ClaretandHugh exclusively: "He's an extraordinary player. He gives absolutely everything. He didn't stop from beginning to end. It really was a magnificent performance. It's hard not to speak too highly of him. "He was often surrounded in the penalty area but always found an out ball and constantly created problems for the defenders. I'm a huge admirer of the lad's. "I have the utmost admiration for him – he's been excellent throughout the season so far. He seems to get better all the time."
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DG hands critic quick-fire Norwich answer
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 27, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has spent his Sunday morning righting a few misapprehensions and bringing much needed news to Hammers fans following yesterday's draws. Unbelievably an impression appears to remain among some that there are easy Premier League games – a false reality the co chairman was keen to explode. Confronted by one follower who claimed of Norwich: "Should be well clear of them, but can't beat the easy teams at home! he responded: " There are no easy teams in the Premier League it's a thin line between winning and losing. dg"
Amazingly the original critical tweet had been favourited 34 times and retweeted five times despite the Canaries being strong, well organised and boasting a decent away record. Earlier – clearly in cheeky mood the chairman had declared: "West Ham are only just above Arsenal Tottenham and Chelsea. " And speaking to ClaretandHugh he said: "We've have been below them for so log. we have to remind them now, don't we. It goes with the territory." In a separate tweet on Alex Song's fitness DG said: I'm hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to play by the end of October. dg"
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Sunday, September 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th September 2015
West Ham United 2-2 Norwich City
WHUFC.com
Barclays Premier League
Cheikhou Kouyate struck a dramatic late equaliser to earn West Ham United a
share of the spoils in a topsy-turvy affair with Norwich City at the Boleyn
Ground on Saturday. Alex Neil's Canaries drew first blood when Robbie Brady
capitalised on a Mark Noble mistake to fire the visitors in front, before
Diafra Sakho drew the Hammers level from a Dimitri Payet centre. England
stopper John Ruddy pulled off a fine second-half stop to deny Sakho his
second, while the excellent Adrian did likewise from both Jonny Howson and
Cameron Jerome.
Substitute Nathan Redmond restored the visitors' advantage with little more
than five minutes to play, only for Kouyate to have the final word, smashing
home from point-blank range in the third minute of added time.
Slaven Bilic made just one change from the side that shocked Manchester City
in the Barclays Premier League last weekend, with the fit-again Kouyate
replacing Pedro Obiang in the heart of the Hammers midfield. The Hammers had
an early warning when an unmarked Jerome nodded tamely at Adrian within 60
seconds. For West Ham, after two corners in quick succession came to nought,
Kouyate tested Ruddy. Payet's free-kick cannoned off the No8's midriff
forcing the England stopper into a smart save to his left. But the Hammers
were soon behind. With nine on the clock, Noble sold James Tomkins short
with a misjudged square ball. Brady nipped in, beating a sliding Tomkins to
it, and finished low and hard beyond Adrian. It may very well have got
worse. Steven Whittaker had time and space at the back post to cut back
inside onto his left foot, though thankfully Victor Moses blocked behind.
Then, still inside 20 minutes, Howson controlled with his chest in the box
before slamming an angled drive narrowly over the top. Adrian was at full
stretch. Still the visitors created chances. This time Brady played in
Jerome down the left and the No10 screwed it into the side netting. He
should have done better.
At the other end, Kouyate did brilliantly out on the right touchline to turn
away from trouble and feed Manuel Lanzini. The Argentine opted to try his
luck from 25 yards but Ruddy saw it well wide of his left-hand upright. But
Ruddy was helpless moments later to prevent the leveller. Payet raced away
down the right and his cut-back evaded Norwich legs and fell perfectly for
Sakho, who gleefully swept home.
It prompted a West Ham onslaught. Lanzini's free-kick sped just past the
post and the former River Plate man then saw a low drive deflected inches
past the upright via Russell Martin. Then Ruddy came racing off his line to
punch clear but got nowhere near it. It fell to Sakho who, under pressure,
hooked over the top. All square at the break but a half, very distinctly, of
two halves.
The opening minutes of the second had a rather more sedate feel about them,
at least until Howson took aim from the edge of the D. It took Adrian
fingertips to keep the scores level. West Ham, however, should have
completed the turnaround and Sakho should have had his second. Moses'
right-wing cross was inch perfect for the Hammers' goalscorer, whose header
from six yards was repelled by Ruddy. An off-balance Kouyate's effort on the
rebound was wild. On the hour, Sakho came away with it and squared to Payet
on the right-edge of the box. The Frenchman's touch to hurdle Brady's
challenge was sublime and his low shot would have nestled in the corner but
for Ruddy's outstretched left arm.
Back came the Canaries. Howson got to the by-line and his centre was met
clean on the volley by an on-rushing Jerome. Adrian made himself big and
took it full in the face. Painful but vital. With nothing to separate the
sides, Bilic threw on Andy Carroll in place of Lanzini. Norwich, however,
continued to threaten and Martin's glancing header drifted over, but only
just.
Norwich hit the front for a second time with little more than five minutes
of regulation time to play courtesy of a virtuoso effort from Redmond.
Collecting his own corner, he jinked his way into the area before
dispatching a low drive beyond Adrian and into the far corner.
But West Ham would have the final say. Ruddy's punch from Payet's free-kick
cannoned straight into the head of Carroll and there was Kouyate, perfectly
placed to blast home and earn the Hammers a late, late, point at the Boleyn
Ground.
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Reid, Cresswell, Kouyate, Noble
(c) (Zarate 85), Lanzini (Carroll 72), Payet, Moses (Obiang 57), Sakho
Subs: Randolph, Collins, Antonio, Jelavic.
Goals: Sakho 34, 90+3
Norwich City: Ruddy, Whittaker, Martin (c), Bassong, Brady, Tettey, Howson,
Dorrans (Redmond 70), Olsson, Hoolahan (O'Neil 85), Jerome (Mbokani 64)
Subs: Rudd, Wisdom, R.Bennett, Grabban
Goals: Brady 9, Redmond 84
Referee: Mike Dean
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Potters come back to beat Dev Squad
WHUFc.com
The West Ham United Development Squad slipped to a 2-1 defeat away to Stoke
City on Saturday 26 September. The Hammers took the lead thanks to Elliot
Lee's second goal of the season however the Potters remained resolute and
turned the game round with two second half goals.Striker Dominic Telford
equalised from the penalty spot shortly after the hour mark before
substitute Yusuf Oban netted the winner with just nine minutes remaining.
The win takes the hosts to eighth in the Barclays U21 Premier League
Division Two, while the Hammers are still looking for their win of the
season.
U21: Howes, Knoyle, Page, Dobson, Chambers, Oxford (Onariase 76),
Parfitt-Williams (Brown 81), Cullen, Lee, Browne (Makasi 69), Samuelsen
Subs: Pike, Boness
The Dev Squad's next game is against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday 19
October, kick off at Rush Green is 7pm.
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Young Hammers down Saints
WHUFc.com
West Ham United U18s secured their second 2-0 win in consecutive weeks
following an impressive performance away at Southampton.
Following their 2-0 win over then league leaders Chelsea, the young Hammers
put in an accomplished display against the Saints to take them up to seventh
in the Barclays U18 Premier League south division table.
Explosive winger Grady Diangana put the Hammers ahead just before the
half-interval with a well taken strike, his first of the season.
The hosts responded strongly however it was the Irons who doubled their
advantage. Saints' goalkeeper Jake Hallett inadvertently pushed the ball
into the back of fellow player Ollie Cook and the ball rebounded into the
open net.
The U18s will look to make it a hat-trick of wins next weekend when they
face table toppers' Reading FC on Saturday 3 October, kick off at Little
Heath is 11am.
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West Ham win Performance of the Week
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic was thrilled to be presented with another LG Performance of the
Week following the memorable win over Manchester City last weekend. West Ham
United have already picked up the award this season following their
convincing opening day victory over Arsenal and followed that up with
another superb win over Manuel Pellegrini's side. Goals from Victor Moses
and Diafra Sakho helped the Hammers secure their first victory at the Etihad
Stadium since 2006 and inflict the first defeat on the Premier League
leaders. The east London club have defied all the odds to record away
victories at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City and have enjoyed a
superb start to the campaign on their travels. Bilic picked up his award at
the Club's training ground on Friday and says it was just rewards for all
the hard work that his players put into the game last weekend. Bilic said:
"It's an honour to get this award and I was delighted with the victory. It
was one of those away wins that is more than just a win as it was against a
team who are top of the table, who had not conceded a goal and had the
maximum number of points. "It was a great win for us, especially after doing
it against Arsenal and Liverpool which was a surprise for us. "It is a great
feeling for us and it was one of those games that has given us the
confidence and helps us to bond with team-work and having a great
atmosphere. It was a great day for West Ham."
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Bilic - We showed character & spirit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic praised his players for the character
and spirit they showed in salvaging a 2-2 draw against Norwich.
The Hammers refused to lie down after Nathan Redmond looked to have scored a
late winner for the newly promoted side, but Cheikhou Kouyate scored three
minutes into injury time to earn a point for the east London side. Bilic
felt his side started the game slowly, but had a superb end to the first
half and were unlucky not to gain an advantage early in the second half. The
Hammers boss says he will not get carried away with the result, but is happy
that his side managed to extend their unbeaten run to four league games and
maintain their position in the top four. Bilic said: "I am pleased and we
showed the character and the spirit. We showed the quality but I am not
totally happy with the result as our objective in every home game is to win.
"But this is the Premier League and you have to give credit to the
opponents. I am sure their manager would say the same and he can take a lot
of positive things, but also negative things. "It was a game of spells. It
was dramatic and a typical Premier League game that had everything - it had
aggression, passes with set pieces, four goals and great saves from both
keepers. It was a very exciting and dramatic game. "The goal from Norwich
killed us for the first 25 minutes and they were much better than us. They
kept the ball and were getting good opportunities. They were frustrating us.
"But the last 15 minutes of the first half we were brilliant and scored a
goal. We were aggressive and were quicker than them. "We were close to
scoring another one. Their keeper made the difference with a couple of great
saves. "I thought we would have more chances but then they scored. I am not
flying but it is a good point for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Prolific Kouyate saves the day
WHUFC.com
Cheikhou Kouyate was happy to contribute yet another goal as West Ham United
snatched a 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw with Norwich City. The Hammers
trailed twice to the Canaries, but strikes from Senegal internationals
Diafra Sakho and Kouyate secured a share of the spoils at the Boleyn Ground.
Speaking to West Ham TV, the No8 was naturally happy to score his third in
six league appearances this term, but a shade frustrated not to beat the
newly-promoted visitors. "I got another goal, but it was a draw," he said.
"All the players wanted to win the game, but it was a very difficult game.
Norwich played well and with very good organisation. "I am happy with my
goal, but I am not happy with the result. It was not a bad result, so now we
have to focus on the next game. "I scored in the last minute when usually we
might lose the game, but instead we drew 2-2 and it is good that we didn't
lose the game."
Dimitri Payet was again to the fore, creating Sakho's first equaliser after
Robbie Brady's early opener before whipping in a 93rd-minute free-kick which
Kouyate converted after John Ruddy had punched the ball into the head of
substitute Andy Carroll. The midfielder's clinical finish cancelled out a
well-placed strike from Norwich replacement Nathan Redmond, which looked to
have earned Alex Neil's side all three points. "Dimitri is a good player,"
Kouyate enthused. "He has a lot of quality. This guy loves to play football
and he got another assist for Diaf and one for me. He is an unbelievable
player."
West Ham's point means Slaven Bilic's side now have 13 from their opening
seven matches, leaving them third in the table ahead of next weekend's trip
to struggling Sunderland. While the Black Cats may be winless, Kouyate says
the Hammers simply cannot afford to take things easy at the Stadium of
Light, or else they will lose their 100 per cent away record. "Third is not
bad," he continued. "We just need to keep working hard and work this week
because the Sunderland game is not easy. "I know Sunderland have not had
good results, but this is a very dangerous match. We need to stay humble,
work hard and go to Sunderland to battle for the points."
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Dimitri's dream start
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet has wasted little time in settling in to life with West Ham
United. Just six games into his Barclays Premier League career the Frenchman
already has three goals to his name - and a couple of crucial ones at that
with his double against Newcastle United securing all three points. As the
Hammers prepare to take on Norwich City on Saturday, Payet is determined to
build on that momentum and help his new team maintain their position near
the top of the table. He said: "Of course scoring goals provided me with a
big confidence boost on my arrival at a new club. The goals against
Newcastle were the most important because my two goals won us the three
points, whereas the one against Leicester did not earn us any points. "I am
very happy with my start here and I'm working hard to ensure it continues."
When West Ham approached him in the summer, Payet insisted it was a simple
decision to join the Club. He added: "This is a project I want to be part of
and I'm here to help the team. When the new manager came in, he implemented
a new style of attacking football that was perfect for an attack-minded
player like myself. "Of course, we also have the new Stadium coming along
and this is always a very important stage for Club when it goes through such
a transition. Everyone here is very keen to improve on last season, when we
finished 12th, and we think we can do that and, in the long term, secure
European football here. "Of course the success of French players here in
England helped me to make my decision to come. The Premier League and
Spain's La Liga have always been the standout leagues for me and there were
opportunities for me to move here previously, but I didn't feel ready. Now,
I am here and I feel ready to be here. "I played with Joe Cole at Lille and
he spoke to me about West Ham and his personal attachment to the Club and
now I am here I can understand that very well."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 2 Norwich 2
26 September 2015
Last updated at 17:43
By Shamoon Hafez
BBC Sport
Cheikhou Kouyate struck a late equaliser for West Ham to earn a point
against Norwich at Upton Park.Substitute Nathan Redmond looked to have won
it for the visitors with a low strike, before Kouyate pounced. Robbie Brady
had given Norwich the lead early on, seizing on Mark Noble's mistake before
calmly slotting in. Diafra Sakho levelled for the hosts by sliding in
Dimitri Payet's cutback, as John Ruddy pulled off saves from both Sakho and
Payet. It was an entertaining encounter in east London, with both sides
having opportunities to win the game. The Hammers have had an impressive
start to the season, winning three games on the road, but they seem to have
problems in front of their own fans, collecting just four points from a
possible 12. If they have ambitions of finishing in the top six, they will
need to improve their form at Upton Park, in their last season at the ground
before moving to the Olympic Stadium. And having gone behind, they were
always playing catch-up in the match. Despite playing behind the striker,
Dimitri Payet failed to threaten around the Norwich penalty area and touched
the ball just twice inside the box Norwich's goal came against the early run
of play, gifted to them by Noble's misjudged pass across his defence, but
they gained confidence from the strike. Hammers dangerman Payet struggled to
exert his influence on the game, losing the ball 19 times in the match - the
most of any home player - as he tried to do too much on his own. He did,
however, provide an assist for West Ham's first equaliser, cutting the ball
back for Sakho to signal a home resurgence. Visiting skipper Russell Martin,
who earned the Canaries a point against Liverpool last week, led from the
back, winning the ball back seven times as well as making seven clearances,
but ultimately left disappointed. Having looked like snatching all three
points through with seven minutes remaining, Redmond rounding off a period
of sustained pressure with his goal, Norwich conceded late in injury time;
Ruddy tried to punch the ball away but it ricocheted off Andy Carroll
allowing a grateful Kouyate to stab home.
Norwich midfielder Nathan Redmond: "I thought we had played well and gave
ourselves a great opportunity to win the game. I thought we secured it with
my goal but we are disappointed to concede late on."
Norwich boss Alex Neil: "When you concede with a minute to go, it is always
disappointing but we will take encouragement from how well we played."
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic: "I am happy that we showed the character at the
end and we deserved it. A draw is a fair result and they are probably gutted
because of the timing of the last goal."
The stats you need to know
West Ham players have made four errors leading to goals in the Premier
League this season; more than any other club.
Diafra Sakho has now scored in five of his six Premier League appearances in
September.
Wes Hoolahan has assisted five and scored one of Norwich's 11 Premier League
goals this season.
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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic hails side's character after Norwich draw
Last Updated: 26/09/15 9:01pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic believes his side showed their "character" in
the 2-2 draw with Norwich City at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. The Hammers
fell behind early on, with Norwich midfielder Robbie Brady capitalising on a
loose pass from Mark Noble before finishing low past Adrian. Diafra Sakho
equalised just after the half hour mark for West Ham, but Nathan Redmond's
goal six minutes from time had seemingly put Norwich on course for victory
in east London. Cheikhou Kouyate, however, ensured West Ham did not suffer
their third home defeat of the season by notching a 93rd minute equaliser,
much to the delight of Bilic. "We showed the character and I think we
deserved it. We could have won the game, we could have lost the game, so I
think the draw was the fair result," he said. "We started better, but the
goal killed us and again it was a big individual error. But I don't blame
the players when they make technical mistakes, sometimes you have to try
things. It was a goal that blocked us and lifted them."
West Ham have enjoyed much success away from home, claiming victories at
Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City so far this season.
But they have struggled to match that form on home soil, winning just once
against Newcastle and suffering defeats to Leicester City and Bournemouth.
And Bilic feels his side cannot afford to drop off against teams they are
considered favourites to win against. "I have tried to explain this a few
times. All the teams that we have played at home, apart from maybe
Newcastle, are all playing on reaction and they've all been very energetic
teams," he added. "They enjoy defending and all that. If we match them on
their awareness, energy and all the basic things then we are better than
them on the pitch. "But if we drop a little bit. It does not matter if it
is one or two players. A drop of five per cent or 10 per cent, they use it.
Norwich have a good team and they showed that."
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West Ham 2-2 Norwich: Cheikhou Kouyate earns Hammers a point
Last Updated: 26/09/15 6:27pm
SSN
Cheikhou Kouyate scored a stoppage-time equaliser to earn West Ham a 2-2
draw with Norwich City at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. Robbie Brady gave
the visitors the lead early in the first-half with his first goal for the
club after capitalising on a poor pass from Hammers captain Mark Noble.
Diafra Sakho equalised for West Ham before half-time with his third goal of
the season following a superb exchange of passes with Dimitri Payet.
Second-half substitute Nathan Redmond restored Norwich's lead with six
minutes remaining to seemingly put them on their way for their first victory
in east London for 26 years. But Kouyate's equaliser deep into
stoppage-time ensured West Ham claimed a point to stay third in the Premier
League. Norwich move down two places to 13th despite the draw. Following the
midweek Capital One Cup defeat to Leicester, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic
reverted back to near enough the same side that claimed a 2-1 victory over
Manchester City last Saturday, with Kouyate coming in for Pedro Obiang his
only change. In their bid to claim their fourth successive league win, the
Hammers started poorly and fell behind in the ninth minute as Brady
capitalised on a loose pass from Noble, raced away from the home defence and
slotted his shot past West Ham goalkeeper Adrian. Norwich, coming off the
back of their 3-0 Capital One Cup victory over West Bromwich Albion in
midweek, were looking to stretch their unbeaten league run to three matches
and continued to look the most threatening of the two sides with midfielder
Jonny Howson firing just over the crossbar midway through the first-half.
The visitors were made to rue that miss as West Ham levelled just after the
half-hour mark through Sakho. The forward started the move by playing a
sublime first time pass to Payet, who controlled the ball on the right
before crossing for Sakho to tap home from just outside the six-yard box.
West Ham came close to taking the lead through midfielder Manuel Lanzini
shortly after equalising, but the Argentine's free-kick from 25-yards out
whistled just past the post. Norwich nearly restored their advantage
shortly after the break through Howson, however the midfielder's powerful
effort from just outside the 18-yard box was matched by an outstanding save
from Adrian. Sakho was unfortunate not to double his tally for the
afternoon on the hour with a header that was just about kept out by Norwich
goalkeeper John Ruddy. Norwich boss Alex Neil rung the changes midway
through the second-half with Dieumerci Mbokani and Redmond coming on, with
the decision to introduce the latter paying dividends. Redmond, collecting
a pass on the left from Wes Hoolahan, shifted the ball past Noble and onto
his right foot before curling his effort beyond Adrian into the bottom
corner of the net. The winger's goal had seemingly sent Norwich on their way
to a second away victory of the season, however Kouyate's goal deep into
injury-time ensured they were denied with Ruddy arguably at fault. Ruddy
failed to deal with Payet's delivery from the right and split the ball into
the path of Kouyate. The midfielder made no mistake and claimed his third
league goal of the season to save his side from defeat.
West Ham: Adrian (7), Jenkinson (6), Tomkins (6), Reid (7), Cresswell (6),
Noble (5), Kouyate (7), Lanzini (7), Payet (7), Moses (6), Sakho (8).
Subs used: Obiang (6) Carroll (6), Zarate (6).
Subs not used: Randolph, Collins, Jelavic, Antonio.
Norwich: Ruddy (7), Whittaker (7), Martin (6), Bassong (7), Olsson (7),
Howson (7), Tettey (7), Dorrans (6), Hoolahan (7), Brady (7), Jerome (7).
Subs used: Mbokani (6), Redmond (7) ,O'Neil (6).
Sub not used: Wisdom, Grabban, Rudd, Bennett.
Man of the Match: Diafra Sakho
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Norwich City's Jonny Howson reveals heart of gold during match with West Ham
0 COMMENTS 17:25, 26 SEP 2015 UPDATED 17:41, 26 SEP 2015
BY WILL MAGEE
Howson came to the rescue for a vulnerable animal, giving us all strong
feels in the process...
The Mirror
It's quite hard not to like Norwich City . Unless you're an Ipswich fan, the
Canaries just seem like a nice, family-orientated, local team - they've got
cake connoisseur Delia Smith and jolly old Stephen Fry on their board to
boot, the lovely lot. Now, midfielder Jonny Howson has made them seen even
more likeable. The combative Englishman has revealed that, underneath his
snappy facade, he's actually got a heart of pure gold. How has he done so?
By saving a dazed pigeon from the stampeding boots of professional Premier
League footballers - the absolute gent. In the middle of Norwich's clash
with West Ham at Upton Park, Howson spotted the confused critter stranded on
the pitch. Feeling great pity for the vulnerable bird, he then gathered it
up in his tender, muscular arms and carried it to the side of the pitch
before setting it free. Canaries and pigeons were briefly united in
tear-jerking solidarity. Honestly, it was a beautiful moment.
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Payet & Sakho up for Player for the month
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Both Diafra Sakho and Dimtri Payet must both have a good chance to be named
the Barclays Player of the month in September.
Dimtri Payet has scored 3 goals and 3 assists in six games in the Premier
League so far this season. Two of those goals and two assists were in the
month of September. Dimitri Payet has had a hand in 13 goals (four goals,
nine assists) in his last 15 league appearances (Premier League & Ligue 1
combined). The media seem to love and admire the French man which helps when
it comes to these kind of awards.
Meanwhile Sakho appears to be back in excellent form too scoring against
Manchester City and Norwich City this month and is an ever presence around
the whole pitch. Sakho seems to like the mobth of September and has now
scored in five of his seven Premier League appearances in the month of
September. He has scored five goals in all competitions this season with two
against FC Lusitans in the europa League, one against Liverpool at Anfield,
one against Manchester City at the Ethiad as well as one today against
Norwich. That's five goals from ten appearances. He has had 22 shots of
which 10 were on target in the Premier League.
Diafra Sakho was the last West Ham player to receive the Award in October
2014, before that you have to go back three years to Scott Parker in
February 2011 and five years before that to find Anton Ferdinand named
Premier League player of the month in January 2006.
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Amazing Sakho makes it so tough for AC
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
It's becoming harder and harder to see where Andy Carroll fits into Slaven
Bilic's West Ham set-up given the stunning form of Diafra Sakho. Our
diplomatic manager is saying all the correct things about the centre forward
but such is the form being shown by 'Sak' I can't see a way back for AC as a
first pick starter. I watched gobsmacked again today as the Senegal striker
worked his guts out for the cause - running the channels, leading the line,
linking the play and usually finding an out whenever he was surrounded -
sometimes by up to five defenders. He played off great balls to players in
space, scored a goal and with a little more help might have had one or two
more - I make and never have made my admiration for him a secret. I voted
for him in last season's Hammer of the Year awards. I think he is one of the
finest and selfless players to arrive through the Upton Park doors. It was
easy to see why the manager said last week that nobody deserved the victory
over Manchester City more - he sweats blood for the cause. And as our chief
analyst on this site - Leroy Rosenior - has mentioned, he is crucial to
creating space for the creative guys and he does it week in week out. We are
simply not a direct team anymore providing the sort of service to a target
man that allows Carroll to show to his best. Assuming Sak stays fit he has
the No 1 striker job nailed down and with Enner Valencia alongside when he
recovers we will become even more exciting. That will leave Andy as an
"option" and whether that will be enough for the club's record signing
remains to be seen but I have my doubts. Next summer's transfer window could
prove very interesting.
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Slav's happy but "not flying"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic claimed the result was a fair reflection of the attitude and
application of both sides at the Boleyn this afternoon admitting: "It would
have been unfair if either team had been beaten."
And he was quick to point an all important point - lost in the sound and
fury of a frantic finish - declaring: "It's four points from two games so we
have to be happy."
"We deserved the result and I bet they are gutted at the timing of the
second goal.
And speaking to the official site he added: "I am pleased and we showed the
character and the spirit. We showed the quality but I am not totally happy
with the result as our objective in every home game is to win.
"But this is the Premier League and you have to give credit to the
opponents. I am sure their manager would say the same and he can take a lot
of positive things, but also negative things.
"It was a game of spells. It was dramatic and a typical Premier League game
that had everything - it had aggression, passes with set pieces, four goals
and great saves from both keepers. It was a very exciting and dramatic game.
"I thought we would have more chances but then they scored. I am not flying
but it is a good point for us."
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Mark Noble and the Alex Song dilemma
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
It's hard criticising a player for whom you have much admiration but today
wasn't Mark Noble's finest 90 minutes. The captain was definitely
responsible for the first Norwich City goal and I would have to argue that
he must hold his hands up for his involvement in the second. A sloppy pass
let in the Canaries for their first goal and as he made a rather weak
attempt to close down Nathan Redmond for the second he succeeded only into
inviting him inside and onto his stronger foot which he duly accepted and
hammered home.
What make is all so ironic is that the manager has warned on several
occasions that if we are to start winning regularly at the Boleyn we need to
cut out the silly mistakes. So far this season we have lost and drawn to a
couple of teams we'd be expected to beat - Bournemouth and now Norwich - as
a result of individual mistakes. As I say, it's hard to discuss the guy most
believe to be Mr West Ham in these terms but if you are going to live by
those standards it unfortunately goes with the territory when you cock up.
I'm sure Mark will hold his hands up as Aaron Cresswell when he was
responsible - he probably doesn't see himself through the sort of claret and
blue tinted glasses us fans do which is why he has reached this level.
However, there's going to be a very interesting situation develop when Alex
Song is fit again and you have to wonder whether Mark will be the man whose
position is under threat. There were signs today that the Irons are starting
to intermittently develop a way of playing other than via the counter
attacking style at home. They looked a much better team when they pressed
the ball and squeezed Norwich but as soon as the second half opened we again
sat back. We have to press a lot more at Upton Park and not give moderate
opposition room to play.
We're still a work in progress and there are interesting times ahead but the
good news is we are already well on our way to the first objective - safety!
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WHUFC.com
Barclays Premier League
Cheikhou Kouyate struck a dramatic late equaliser to earn West Ham United a
share of the spoils in a topsy-turvy affair with Norwich City at the Boleyn
Ground on Saturday. Alex Neil's Canaries drew first blood when Robbie Brady
capitalised on a Mark Noble mistake to fire the visitors in front, before
Diafra Sakho drew the Hammers level from a Dimitri Payet centre. England
stopper John Ruddy pulled off a fine second-half stop to deny Sakho his
second, while the excellent Adrian did likewise from both Jonny Howson and
Cameron Jerome.
Substitute Nathan Redmond restored the visitors' advantage with little more
than five minutes to play, only for Kouyate to have the final word, smashing
home from point-blank range in the third minute of added time.
Slaven Bilic made just one change from the side that shocked Manchester City
in the Barclays Premier League last weekend, with the fit-again Kouyate
replacing Pedro Obiang in the heart of the Hammers midfield. The Hammers had
an early warning when an unmarked Jerome nodded tamely at Adrian within 60
seconds. For West Ham, after two corners in quick succession came to nought,
Kouyate tested Ruddy. Payet's free-kick cannoned off the No8's midriff
forcing the England stopper into a smart save to his left. But the Hammers
were soon behind. With nine on the clock, Noble sold James Tomkins short
with a misjudged square ball. Brady nipped in, beating a sliding Tomkins to
it, and finished low and hard beyond Adrian. It may very well have got
worse. Steven Whittaker had time and space at the back post to cut back
inside onto his left foot, though thankfully Victor Moses blocked behind.
Then, still inside 20 minutes, Howson controlled with his chest in the box
before slamming an angled drive narrowly over the top. Adrian was at full
stretch. Still the visitors created chances. This time Brady played in
Jerome down the left and the No10 screwed it into the side netting. He
should have done better.
At the other end, Kouyate did brilliantly out on the right touchline to turn
away from trouble and feed Manuel Lanzini. The Argentine opted to try his
luck from 25 yards but Ruddy saw it well wide of his left-hand upright. But
Ruddy was helpless moments later to prevent the leveller. Payet raced away
down the right and his cut-back evaded Norwich legs and fell perfectly for
Sakho, who gleefully swept home.
It prompted a West Ham onslaught. Lanzini's free-kick sped just past the
post and the former River Plate man then saw a low drive deflected inches
past the upright via Russell Martin. Then Ruddy came racing off his line to
punch clear but got nowhere near it. It fell to Sakho who, under pressure,
hooked over the top. All square at the break but a half, very distinctly, of
two halves.
The opening minutes of the second had a rather more sedate feel about them,
at least until Howson took aim from the edge of the D. It took Adrian
fingertips to keep the scores level. West Ham, however, should have
completed the turnaround and Sakho should have had his second. Moses'
right-wing cross was inch perfect for the Hammers' goalscorer, whose header
from six yards was repelled by Ruddy. An off-balance Kouyate's effort on the
rebound was wild. On the hour, Sakho came away with it and squared to Payet
on the right-edge of the box. The Frenchman's touch to hurdle Brady's
challenge was sublime and his low shot would have nestled in the corner but
for Ruddy's outstretched left arm.
Back came the Canaries. Howson got to the by-line and his centre was met
clean on the volley by an on-rushing Jerome. Adrian made himself big and
took it full in the face. Painful but vital. With nothing to separate the
sides, Bilic threw on Andy Carroll in place of Lanzini. Norwich, however,
continued to threaten and Martin's glancing header drifted over, but only
just.
Norwich hit the front for a second time with little more than five minutes
of regulation time to play courtesy of a virtuoso effort from Redmond.
Collecting his own corner, he jinked his way into the area before
dispatching a low drive beyond Adrian and into the far corner.
But West Ham would have the final say. Ruddy's punch from Payet's free-kick
cannoned straight into the head of Carroll and there was Kouyate, perfectly
placed to blast home and earn the Hammers a late, late, point at the Boleyn
Ground.
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Reid, Cresswell, Kouyate, Noble
(c) (Zarate 85), Lanzini (Carroll 72), Payet, Moses (Obiang 57), Sakho
Subs: Randolph, Collins, Antonio, Jelavic.
Goals: Sakho 34, 90+3
Norwich City: Ruddy, Whittaker, Martin (c), Bassong, Brady, Tettey, Howson,
Dorrans (Redmond 70), Olsson, Hoolahan (O'Neil 85), Jerome (Mbokani 64)
Subs: Rudd, Wisdom, R.Bennett, Grabban
Goals: Brady 9, Redmond 84
Referee: Mike Dean
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Potters come back to beat Dev Squad
WHUFc.com
The West Ham United Development Squad slipped to a 2-1 defeat away to Stoke
City on Saturday 26 September. The Hammers took the lead thanks to Elliot
Lee's second goal of the season however the Potters remained resolute and
turned the game round with two second half goals.Striker Dominic Telford
equalised from the penalty spot shortly after the hour mark before
substitute Yusuf Oban netted the winner with just nine minutes remaining.
The win takes the hosts to eighth in the Barclays U21 Premier League
Division Two, while the Hammers are still looking for their win of the
season.
U21: Howes, Knoyle, Page, Dobson, Chambers, Oxford (Onariase 76),
Parfitt-Williams (Brown 81), Cullen, Lee, Browne (Makasi 69), Samuelsen
Subs: Pike, Boness
The Dev Squad's next game is against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday 19
October, kick off at Rush Green is 7pm.
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Young Hammers down Saints
WHUFc.com
West Ham United U18s secured their second 2-0 win in consecutive weeks
following an impressive performance away at Southampton.
Following their 2-0 win over then league leaders Chelsea, the young Hammers
put in an accomplished display against the Saints to take them up to seventh
in the Barclays U18 Premier League south division table.
Explosive winger Grady Diangana put the Hammers ahead just before the
half-interval with a well taken strike, his first of the season.
The hosts responded strongly however it was the Irons who doubled their
advantage. Saints' goalkeeper Jake Hallett inadvertently pushed the ball
into the back of fellow player Ollie Cook and the ball rebounded into the
open net.
The U18s will look to make it a hat-trick of wins next weekend when they
face table toppers' Reading FC on Saturday 3 October, kick off at Little
Heath is 11am.
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West Ham win Performance of the Week
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic was thrilled to be presented with another LG Performance of the
Week following the memorable win over Manchester City last weekend. West Ham
United have already picked up the award this season following their
convincing opening day victory over Arsenal and followed that up with
another superb win over Manuel Pellegrini's side. Goals from Victor Moses
and Diafra Sakho helped the Hammers secure their first victory at the Etihad
Stadium since 2006 and inflict the first defeat on the Premier League
leaders. The east London club have defied all the odds to record away
victories at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City and have enjoyed a
superb start to the campaign on their travels. Bilic picked up his award at
the Club's training ground on Friday and says it was just rewards for all
the hard work that his players put into the game last weekend. Bilic said:
"It's an honour to get this award and I was delighted with the victory. It
was one of those away wins that is more than just a win as it was against a
team who are top of the table, who had not conceded a goal and had the
maximum number of points. "It was a great win for us, especially after doing
it against Arsenal and Liverpool which was a surprise for us. "It is a great
feeling for us and it was one of those games that has given us the
confidence and helps us to bond with team-work and having a great
atmosphere. It was a great day for West Ham."
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Bilic - We showed character & spirit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic praised his players for the character
and spirit they showed in salvaging a 2-2 draw against Norwich.
The Hammers refused to lie down after Nathan Redmond looked to have scored a
late winner for the newly promoted side, but Cheikhou Kouyate scored three
minutes into injury time to earn a point for the east London side. Bilic
felt his side started the game slowly, but had a superb end to the first
half and were unlucky not to gain an advantage early in the second half. The
Hammers boss says he will not get carried away with the result, but is happy
that his side managed to extend their unbeaten run to four league games and
maintain their position in the top four. Bilic said: "I am pleased and we
showed the character and the spirit. We showed the quality but I am not
totally happy with the result as our objective in every home game is to win.
"But this is the Premier League and you have to give credit to the
opponents. I am sure their manager would say the same and he can take a lot
of positive things, but also negative things. "It was a game of spells. It
was dramatic and a typical Premier League game that had everything - it had
aggression, passes with set pieces, four goals and great saves from both
keepers. It was a very exciting and dramatic game. "The goal from Norwich
killed us for the first 25 minutes and they were much better than us. They
kept the ball and were getting good opportunities. They were frustrating us.
"But the last 15 minutes of the first half we were brilliant and scored a
goal. We were aggressive and were quicker than them. "We were close to
scoring another one. Their keeper made the difference with a couple of great
saves. "I thought we would have more chances but then they scored. I am not
flying but it is a good point for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Prolific Kouyate saves the day
WHUFC.com
Cheikhou Kouyate was happy to contribute yet another goal as West Ham United
snatched a 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw with Norwich City. The Hammers
trailed twice to the Canaries, but strikes from Senegal internationals
Diafra Sakho and Kouyate secured a share of the spoils at the Boleyn Ground.
Speaking to West Ham TV, the No8 was naturally happy to score his third in
six league appearances this term, but a shade frustrated not to beat the
newly-promoted visitors. "I got another goal, but it was a draw," he said.
"All the players wanted to win the game, but it was a very difficult game.
Norwich played well and with very good organisation. "I am happy with my
goal, but I am not happy with the result. It was not a bad result, so now we
have to focus on the next game. "I scored in the last minute when usually we
might lose the game, but instead we drew 2-2 and it is good that we didn't
lose the game."
Dimitri Payet was again to the fore, creating Sakho's first equaliser after
Robbie Brady's early opener before whipping in a 93rd-minute free-kick which
Kouyate converted after John Ruddy had punched the ball into the head of
substitute Andy Carroll. The midfielder's clinical finish cancelled out a
well-placed strike from Norwich replacement Nathan Redmond, which looked to
have earned Alex Neil's side all three points. "Dimitri is a good player,"
Kouyate enthused. "He has a lot of quality. This guy loves to play football
and he got another assist for Diaf and one for me. He is an unbelievable
player."
West Ham's point means Slaven Bilic's side now have 13 from their opening
seven matches, leaving them third in the table ahead of next weekend's trip
to struggling Sunderland. While the Black Cats may be winless, Kouyate says
the Hammers simply cannot afford to take things easy at the Stadium of
Light, or else they will lose their 100 per cent away record. "Third is not
bad," he continued. "We just need to keep working hard and work this week
because the Sunderland game is not easy. "I know Sunderland have not had
good results, but this is a very dangerous match. We need to stay humble,
work hard and go to Sunderland to battle for the points."
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Dimitri's dream start
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet has wasted little time in settling in to life with West Ham
United. Just six games into his Barclays Premier League career the Frenchman
already has three goals to his name - and a couple of crucial ones at that
with his double against Newcastle United securing all three points. As the
Hammers prepare to take on Norwich City on Saturday, Payet is determined to
build on that momentum and help his new team maintain their position near
the top of the table. He said: "Of course scoring goals provided me with a
big confidence boost on my arrival at a new club. The goals against
Newcastle were the most important because my two goals won us the three
points, whereas the one against Leicester did not earn us any points. "I am
very happy with my start here and I'm working hard to ensure it continues."
When West Ham approached him in the summer, Payet insisted it was a simple
decision to join the Club. He added: "This is a project I want to be part of
and I'm here to help the team. When the new manager came in, he implemented
a new style of attacking football that was perfect for an attack-minded
player like myself. "Of course, we also have the new Stadium coming along
and this is always a very important stage for Club when it goes through such
a transition. Everyone here is very keen to improve on last season, when we
finished 12th, and we think we can do that and, in the long term, secure
European football here. "Of course the success of French players here in
England helped me to make my decision to come. The Premier League and
Spain's La Liga have always been the standout leagues for me and there were
opportunities for me to move here previously, but I didn't feel ready. Now,
I am here and I feel ready to be here. "I played with Joe Cole at Lille and
he spoke to me about West Ham and his personal attachment to the Club and
now I am here I can understand that very well."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 2 Norwich 2
26 September 2015
Last updated at 17:43
By Shamoon Hafez
BBC Sport
Cheikhou Kouyate struck a late equaliser for West Ham to earn a point
against Norwich at Upton Park.Substitute Nathan Redmond looked to have won
it for the visitors with a low strike, before Kouyate pounced. Robbie Brady
had given Norwich the lead early on, seizing on Mark Noble's mistake before
calmly slotting in. Diafra Sakho levelled for the hosts by sliding in
Dimitri Payet's cutback, as John Ruddy pulled off saves from both Sakho and
Payet. It was an entertaining encounter in east London, with both sides
having opportunities to win the game. The Hammers have had an impressive
start to the season, winning three games on the road, but they seem to have
problems in front of their own fans, collecting just four points from a
possible 12. If they have ambitions of finishing in the top six, they will
need to improve their form at Upton Park, in their last season at the ground
before moving to the Olympic Stadium. And having gone behind, they were
always playing catch-up in the match. Despite playing behind the striker,
Dimitri Payet failed to threaten around the Norwich penalty area and touched
the ball just twice inside the box Norwich's goal came against the early run
of play, gifted to them by Noble's misjudged pass across his defence, but
they gained confidence from the strike. Hammers dangerman Payet struggled to
exert his influence on the game, losing the ball 19 times in the match - the
most of any home player - as he tried to do too much on his own. He did,
however, provide an assist for West Ham's first equaliser, cutting the ball
back for Sakho to signal a home resurgence. Visiting skipper Russell Martin,
who earned the Canaries a point against Liverpool last week, led from the
back, winning the ball back seven times as well as making seven clearances,
but ultimately left disappointed. Having looked like snatching all three
points through with seven minutes remaining, Redmond rounding off a period
of sustained pressure with his goal, Norwich conceded late in injury time;
Ruddy tried to punch the ball away but it ricocheted off Andy Carroll
allowing a grateful Kouyate to stab home.
Norwich midfielder Nathan Redmond: "I thought we had played well and gave
ourselves a great opportunity to win the game. I thought we secured it with
my goal but we are disappointed to concede late on."
Norwich boss Alex Neil: "When you concede with a minute to go, it is always
disappointing but we will take encouragement from how well we played."
West Ham boss Slaven Bilic: "I am happy that we showed the character at the
end and we deserved it. A draw is a fair result and they are probably gutted
because of the timing of the last goal."
The stats you need to know
West Ham players have made four errors leading to goals in the Premier
League this season; more than any other club.
Diafra Sakho has now scored in five of his six Premier League appearances in
September.
Wes Hoolahan has assisted five and scored one of Norwich's 11 Premier League
goals this season.
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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic hails side's character after Norwich draw
Last Updated: 26/09/15 9:01pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic believes his side showed their "character" in
the 2-2 draw with Norwich City at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. The Hammers
fell behind early on, with Norwich midfielder Robbie Brady capitalising on a
loose pass from Mark Noble before finishing low past Adrian. Diafra Sakho
equalised just after the half hour mark for West Ham, but Nathan Redmond's
goal six minutes from time had seemingly put Norwich on course for victory
in east London. Cheikhou Kouyate, however, ensured West Ham did not suffer
their third home defeat of the season by notching a 93rd minute equaliser,
much to the delight of Bilic. "We showed the character and I think we
deserved it. We could have won the game, we could have lost the game, so I
think the draw was the fair result," he said. "We started better, but the
goal killed us and again it was a big individual error. But I don't blame
the players when they make technical mistakes, sometimes you have to try
things. It was a goal that blocked us and lifted them."
West Ham have enjoyed much success away from home, claiming victories at
Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City so far this season.
But they have struggled to match that form on home soil, winning just once
against Newcastle and suffering defeats to Leicester City and Bournemouth.
And Bilic feels his side cannot afford to drop off against teams they are
considered favourites to win against. "I have tried to explain this a few
times. All the teams that we have played at home, apart from maybe
Newcastle, are all playing on reaction and they've all been very energetic
teams," he added. "They enjoy defending and all that. If we match them on
their awareness, energy and all the basic things then we are better than
them on the pitch. "But if we drop a little bit. It does not matter if it
is one or two players. A drop of five per cent or 10 per cent, they use it.
Norwich have a good team and they showed that."
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West Ham 2-2 Norwich: Cheikhou Kouyate earns Hammers a point
Last Updated: 26/09/15 6:27pm
SSN
Cheikhou Kouyate scored a stoppage-time equaliser to earn West Ham a 2-2
draw with Norwich City at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. Robbie Brady gave
the visitors the lead early in the first-half with his first goal for the
club after capitalising on a poor pass from Hammers captain Mark Noble.
Diafra Sakho equalised for West Ham before half-time with his third goal of
the season following a superb exchange of passes with Dimitri Payet.
Second-half substitute Nathan Redmond restored Norwich's lead with six
minutes remaining to seemingly put them on their way for their first victory
in east London for 26 years. But Kouyate's equaliser deep into
stoppage-time ensured West Ham claimed a point to stay third in the Premier
League. Norwich move down two places to 13th despite the draw. Following the
midweek Capital One Cup defeat to Leicester, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic
reverted back to near enough the same side that claimed a 2-1 victory over
Manchester City last Saturday, with Kouyate coming in for Pedro Obiang his
only change. In their bid to claim their fourth successive league win, the
Hammers started poorly and fell behind in the ninth minute as Brady
capitalised on a loose pass from Noble, raced away from the home defence and
slotted his shot past West Ham goalkeeper Adrian. Norwich, coming off the
back of their 3-0 Capital One Cup victory over West Bromwich Albion in
midweek, were looking to stretch their unbeaten league run to three matches
and continued to look the most threatening of the two sides with midfielder
Jonny Howson firing just over the crossbar midway through the first-half.
The visitors were made to rue that miss as West Ham levelled just after the
half-hour mark through Sakho. The forward started the move by playing a
sublime first time pass to Payet, who controlled the ball on the right
before crossing for Sakho to tap home from just outside the six-yard box.
West Ham came close to taking the lead through midfielder Manuel Lanzini
shortly after equalising, but the Argentine's free-kick from 25-yards out
whistled just past the post. Norwich nearly restored their advantage
shortly after the break through Howson, however the midfielder's powerful
effort from just outside the 18-yard box was matched by an outstanding save
from Adrian. Sakho was unfortunate not to double his tally for the
afternoon on the hour with a header that was just about kept out by Norwich
goalkeeper John Ruddy. Norwich boss Alex Neil rung the changes midway
through the second-half with Dieumerci Mbokani and Redmond coming on, with
the decision to introduce the latter paying dividends. Redmond, collecting
a pass on the left from Wes Hoolahan, shifted the ball past Noble and onto
his right foot before curling his effort beyond Adrian into the bottom
corner of the net. The winger's goal had seemingly sent Norwich on their way
to a second away victory of the season, however Kouyate's goal deep into
injury-time ensured they were denied with Ruddy arguably at fault. Ruddy
failed to deal with Payet's delivery from the right and split the ball into
the path of Kouyate. The midfielder made no mistake and claimed his third
league goal of the season to save his side from defeat.
West Ham: Adrian (7), Jenkinson (6), Tomkins (6), Reid (7), Cresswell (6),
Noble (5), Kouyate (7), Lanzini (7), Payet (7), Moses (6), Sakho (8).
Subs used: Obiang (6) Carroll (6), Zarate (6).
Subs not used: Randolph, Collins, Jelavic, Antonio.
Norwich: Ruddy (7), Whittaker (7), Martin (6), Bassong (7), Olsson (7),
Howson (7), Tettey (7), Dorrans (6), Hoolahan (7), Brady (7), Jerome (7).
Subs used: Mbokani (6), Redmond (7) ,O'Neil (6).
Sub not used: Wisdom, Grabban, Rudd, Bennett.
Man of the Match: Diafra Sakho
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Norwich City's Jonny Howson reveals heart of gold during match with West Ham
0 COMMENTS 17:25, 26 SEP 2015 UPDATED 17:41, 26 SEP 2015
BY WILL MAGEE
Howson came to the rescue for a vulnerable animal, giving us all strong
feels in the process...
The Mirror
It's quite hard not to like Norwich City . Unless you're an Ipswich fan, the
Canaries just seem like a nice, family-orientated, local team - they've got
cake connoisseur Delia Smith and jolly old Stephen Fry on their board to
boot, the lovely lot. Now, midfielder Jonny Howson has made them seen even
more likeable. The combative Englishman has revealed that, underneath his
snappy facade, he's actually got a heart of pure gold. How has he done so?
By saving a dazed pigeon from the stampeding boots of professional Premier
League footballers - the absolute gent. In the middle of Norwich's clash
with West Ham at Upton Park, Howson spotted the confused critter stranded on
the pitch. Feeling great pity for the vulnerable bird, he then gathered it
up in his tender, muscular arms and carried it to the side of the pitch
before setting it free. Canaries and pigeons were briefly united in
tear-jerking solidarity. Honestly, it was a beautiful moment.
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Payet & Sakho up for Player for the month
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Both Diafra Sakho and Dimtri Payet must both have a good chance to be named
the Barclays Player of the month in September.
Dimtri Payet has scored 3 goals and 3 assists in six games in the Premier
League so far this season. Two of those goals and two assists were in the
month of September. Dimitri Payet has had a hand in 13 goals (four goals,
nine assists) in his last 15 league appearances (Premier League & Ligue 1
combined). The media seem to love and admire the French man which helps when
it comes to these kind of awards.
Meanwhile Sakho appears to be back in excellent form too scoring against
Manchester City and Norwich City this month and is an ever presence around
the whole pitch. Sakho seems to like the mobth of September and has now
scored in five of his seven Premier League appearances in the month of
September. He has scored five goals in all competitions this season with two
against FC Lusitans in the europa League, one against Liverpool at Anfield,
one against Manchester City at the Ethiad as well as one today against
Norwich. That's five goals from ten appearances. He has had 22 shots of
which 10 were on target in the Premier League.
Diafra Sakho was the last West Ham player to receive the Award in October
2014, before that you have to go back three years to Scott Parker in
February 2011 and five years before that to find Anton Ferdinand named
Premier League player of the month in January 2006.
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Amazing Sakho makes it so tough for AC
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
It's becoming harder and harder to see where Andy Carroll fits into Slaven
Bilic's West Ham set-up given the stunning form of Diafra Sakho. Our
diplomatic manager is saying all the correct things about the centre forward
but such is the form being shown by 'Sak' I can't see a way back for AC as a
first pick starter. I watched gobsmacked again today as the Senegal striker
worked his guts out for the cause - running the channels, leading the line,
linking the play and usually finding an out whenever he was surrounded -
sometimes by up to five defenders. He played off great balls to players in
space, scored a goal and with a little more help might have had one or two
more - I make and never have made my admiration for him a secret. I voted
for him in last season's Hammer of the Year awards. I think he is one of the
finest and selfless players to arrive through the Upton Park doors. It was
easy to see why the manager said last week that nobody deserved the victory
over Manchester City more - he sweats blood for the cause. And as our chief
analyst on this site - Leroy Rosenior - has mentioned, he is crucial to
creating space for the creative guys and he does it week in week out. We are
simply not a direct team anymore providing the sort of service to a target
man that allows Carroll to show to his best. Assuming Sak stays fit he has
the No 1 striker job nailed down and with Enner Valencia alongside when he
recovers we will become even more exciting. That will leave Andy as an
"option" and whether that will be enough for the club's record signing
remains to be seen but I have my doubts. Next summer's transfer window could
prove very interesting.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slav's happy but "not flying"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic claimed the result was a fair reflection of the attitude and
application of both sides at the Boleyn this afternoon admitting: "It would
have been unfair if either team had been beaten."
And he was quick to point an all important point - lost in the sound and
fury of a frantic finish - declaring: "It's four points from two games so we
have to be happy."
"We deserved the result and I bet they are gutted at the timing of the
second goal.
And speaking to the official site he added: "I am pleased and we showed the
character and the spirit. We showed the quality but I am not totally happy
with the result as our objective in every home game is to win.
"But this is the Premier League and you have to give credit to the
opponents. I am sure their manager would say the same and he can take a lot
of positive things, but also negative things.
"It was a game of spells. It was dramatic and a typical Premier League game
that had everything - it had aggression, passes with set pieces, four goals
and great saves from both keepers. It was a very exciting and dramatic game.
"I thought we would have more chances but then they scored. I am not flying
but it is a good point for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark Noble and the Alex Song dilemma
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 26, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
It's hard criticising a player for whom you have much admiration but today
wasn't Mark Noble's finest 90 minutes. The captain was definitely
responsible for the first Norwich City goal and I would have to argue that
he must hold his hands up for his involvement in the second. A sloppy pass
let in the Canaries for their first goal and as he made a rather weak
attempt to close down Nathan Redmond for the second he succeeded only into
inviting him inside and onto his stronger foot which he duly accepted and
hammered home.
What make is all so ironic is that the manager has warned on several
occasions that if we are to start winning regularly at the Boleyn we need to
cut out the silly mistakes. So far this season we have lost and drawn to a
couple of teams we'd be expected to beat - Bournemouth and now Norwich - as
a result of individual mistakes. As I say, it's hard to discuss the guy most
believe to be Mr West Ham in these terms but if you are going to live by
those standards it unfortunately goes with the territory when you cock up.
I'm sure Mark will hold his hands up as Aaron Cresswell when he was
responsible - he probably doesn't see himself through the sort of claret and
blue tinted glasses us fans do which is why he has reached this level.
However, there's going to be a very interesting situation develop when Alex
Song is fit again and you have to wonder whether Mark will be the man whose
position is under threat. There were signs today that the Irons are starting
to intermittently develop a way of playing other than via the counter
attacking style at home. They looked a much better team when they pressed
the ball and squeezed Norwich but as soon as the second half opened we again
sat back. We have to press a lot more at Upton Park and not give moderate
opposition room to play.
We're still a work in progress and there are interesting times ahead but the
good news is we are already well on our way to the first objective - safety!
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Saturday, September 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th September 2015
Preview - Norwich City
WHUFC.com
Norwich have started the season strongly
The Background
West Ham United return to Barclays Premier League action on Saturday looking to extend their winning run of games in the League to four matches.
The Hammers entertain newly promoted Norwich City, who have defied expectations so far. The Canaries are currently eleventh with eight points from their opening six games.
Alex Neil's men recorded impressive wins over AFC Bournemouth and Sunderland, and go into Saturday's game full of confidence following their 1-1 draw away at Liverpool.
They continued their run of form with a resounding 3-0 win over West Bromiwch Albion in midweek – West Ham loanee Matt Jarvis, scoring his second goal for the Norfolk side in just three appearances.
Meanwhile the Hammers maintained their 100% away record with a third historic win over table toppers Manchester City. If results go the Hammers' way, they could go top of the league by Saturday afternoon.
The History
West Ham United have officially faced Norwich City just 50 times in the Football League, Premier League and domestic cup competitions. The Hammers have won 19, Norwich 16 and 15 matches have ended in draws.
The first-ever meeting between the two sides came on 6 October 1934, with John James Foreman and Hugh Mills scoring in a 2-1 West Ham win at The Nest in Division Two.
West Ham were the first club to visit Norwich's present Carrow Road home, losing a Division Two fixture 4-3 on 31 August 1935. The Hammers visited again in pre-season to mark the 80th anniversary of the stadium, winning 1-0 through Harry Toffolo's own-goal.
The last competitive game between the two sides, in February 2014, resulted in a 2-0 win for West Ham. James Collins and Mo Diame scored in the last six minutes to secure the Hammers three valuable points.
Andy Carroll started against Leicester City in midweek
Match Info
Team News
West Ham United
Despite the Hammers' busy schedule, Slaven Bilic has a relatively healthy squad to select from.
Diafra Sakho missed the trip to the King Power Stadium however he should be available. Andy Carroll made his first start in seven months against the Foxes while Mauro Zarate scored on his return, giving Bilic several different options up front.
Having missed the victory over Manchester City through injury, Cheikhou Kouyate is back in contention to play on Saturday.
Angelo Ogbonna (hamstring), Joey O'Brien (calf), Alex Song (foot) and Enner Valencia (knee) are all unavailable but are making good progress in their recoveries.
Norwich City
Canaries' boss Alen Neil has a near full strength team to play with as the only absentees are Gary Hooper (ankle) and Youssef Mulumbu (metartarsal).
Matt Jarvis is ineligible to play against his parent club.
Match facts
Saturday's referee is Mike Dean. He will be assisted by Simon Long and Stuart Burt. The fourth official is Kevin Friend.
West Ham have lost only one of their last nine league and cup matches against Norwich (W4, D4).
The Canaries are without a win at West Ham in 26 years since a 2-0 win in March 1989.
West Ham have scored eight goals from open play – the second highest in the league, behind Manchester City. Norwich City are in eighth place with six goals from open play.
The Hammers have hit 79 long balls this season – joint top with Watford. Norwich are tenth having hit just 67.
Tickets, coverage, weather and other info
Tickets have sold out for the game, but may become available online as Season Ticket Holders relist on Ticket Trader.
You can follow the matchday live on our official Twitter and Facebook pages, as well as in our live match centre here on whufc.com. Get involved with the conversation on Twitter using #WHUNOR.
Saturday is looking like a cloudy day, although there should be bursts on sunshine. Temperature is predicted to be 17C (63F) at kick-off.
The District and Hammersmith & City lines serving Upton Park station are scheduled to run as normal on Saturday. Check tfl.gov.uk for up-to-the-minute reports.
The latest news on National Rail services can be found here, while information on the roads is here.
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Westley pens new Hammers deal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Academy Manager & Head of Player Development Coaching Terry Westley has signed a new five-year contract with the Club.
Having joined the Hammers in July 2014, Westley has overseen the development of the next generation of Hammers stars, with many of his charges being given a first team opportunity at the start of the 2015/16 season.
Reece Oxford and Josh Cullen have both made their Barclays Premier League debuts already this year, while a further six Academy products made their debuts in the Club's UEFA Europa League campaign.
Hammers Vice-Chairman Karren Brady says Westley's new contract is just reward for an impressive first year at the Club.
Ms Brady said: "We are pleased to have agreed a new long-term contract with Terry, who has brought fresh ideas and impetus to the Academy since he joined the Club last year.
"This Club has an outstanding reputation for nurturing homegrown talent, so we have been thrilled to see the impact our youngsters have had in the first team this year.
"Terry's dedication and drive to keep the Academy moving forward has impressed us all and we're looking forward to working with him across the next five years and I'm sure we will continue to see young players coming through to establish themselves at West Ham United."
Westley added: "I want to say a big thank-you to the Board and to Karren for the new deal. I would also like to thank all of my staff since I have arrived here for the work they have done.
"I think it cements the idea that we are going to try and put something in place over the next five-years. Like Slaven, we want a long-term strategy and philosophy.
"Can we build something at the football club when we move into the new stadium with the young players being a part of that? Can we get 30 per cent of the team home-grown and produce the right type of players? All of that takes time but we have made a start.
"This now gives us a chance to establish that strategy and philosophy and I am delighted that I am going to be here for a long time."
Westley's oversees the Hammers' Academy teams from U21 downwards and before arriving in East London, worked to develop young players at the likes of Ipswich Town, Luton Town, Derby County and Birmingham City before moving to a senior role at the Premier League.
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Young Hammers set for double header
WHUFC.com
Having picked up there first point of the season with a 2-2 draw on Monday, the Development Squad make a fast return to action as they travel to play Stoke City on Saturday 26 September.
The young Hammers took an early lead through Jordan Brown's fine finish after just four minutes but were pegged back by goals from Ivan Toney and Callum Roberts.
However, with just seconds remaining, Martin Samuelsen confidently tucked away his spot-kick to rescue his side a point.
Saturday's hosts Stoke City on the other hand have found points difficult to come by of late, after a strong start to the campaign.
Having drawn with Aston Villa on the opening day, they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0. Since then, they've scored once in three games, slipping to defeats to Swansea City, Fulham, Brighton and Hove Albion.
Should Terry Westley's men get all three points, they could climb up the Barclays U21 Premier League second division table to eighth, leapfrogging the Potters in the process.
Meanwhile, the West Ham United U18s are also in action on a busy Saturday for the Hammers.
On the back of beating league leaders' Chelsea 2-0 last weekend, the young Irons travel to the South Coast to play Southampton.
After six games, the Saints, on six points, are just a point ahead of their east London rivals with five.
The Development Squad play Stoke City at Macclesfield Town's Moss Rose stadium, kick off is 2pm while the U18s' game at Southampton's Staplewood Training Ground. Make sure you follow @whufc_official and whufc.com for updates, match reports and reaction.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic says even fans of other clubs are getting behind his happy Hammers
0 COMMENTS 22:30, 25 SEP 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
West Ham were booed by their own fans under Sam Allardyce but an incredible hat-trick of away wins under Bilic has made them the neutrals' favourite again
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has revealed that even fans at other clubs have congratulated him on West Ham's stunning start to the season. The Hammers were booed by their own supporters under Sam Allardyce last season. But after an incredible hat-trick of away wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, the Croat has rediscovered the attractive West Ham way – and made the East End club the neutrals' favourite again.
"We have an army of fans, but it is not only our fans, it is other clubs' fans – football fans – who are congratulating me," Bilic said. "West Ham fans are delighted, but other fans say, 'Well done' and all that. Getting praise from football fans is the best. It's a great feeling."
West Ham sit in third as London's top club before Saturday's visit of fellow away-day specialists Norwich. And after a similarly strong start last season, Bilic reckons has told everyone at the club to enjoy the success while it lasts. "Everything goes really quickly in football and in life," he reasoned. I'm not denying that, there is no point not enjoying the good spells. I said to my staff the other day, 'We've done good, why shouldn't we enjoy it a little bit because when the bad days come we won't enjoy it?' "There's no reasons we could not be confident or proud. But the one condition is they stay on the ground and be even more motivated. "If you're going to win, you need some magic, but most of the game is about fighting and battling. "When you say fighting, you think anyone can do it and it is down to your attitude, but it is quality defending. It doesn't only require will and strong character, but also brains and quality on the pitch."
Norwich defender Sebastien Bassong is targeting a hat-trick of wins against West Ham when his team visit. The big Cameroon international centre-half said: "I have won there with Newcastle and Spurs in the Premier League. But I haven't won there with Norwich yet, so hopefully I can put that right this time."
Bassong is not bothered one bit either about playing in front of the fanatical Hammers support. He said: "I have never found it to be a particularly intimidating place in the past. It's no different to any other Premier League ground. You just have to go there and handle the pressure."
West Ham have had memorable success on the road so far this season. But Bassong warned the Hammers they will have to change their game plan at Upton Park. He said: "Away from home they can sit back and just play counter attacking football. But against us at home they will have to come out and ttack more to keep the fans happy. "So I think it will be a little bit different for them in the way they set up to play."
The Canaries were pre-season favourites for relegation, but are currently sitting in 11th position in the Premier League. And Bassong admits he enjoyed Norwich being above big teams like Chelsea and Liverpool in the table. He said: "We have made a good start and it's definitely better than struggling from the start. "We are in a really good position at present and the team is looking very competitive."
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West Ham v Norwich
KO 15:00
Only once in Premier League history have West Ham had more points at this stage - 13 points in 1999-2000.
25 September 2015
Last updated at 12:57
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 26 September
TEAM NEWS
West Ham striker Andy Carroll played 63 minutes in the League Cup on Tuesday but is unlikely to make his first league start since January. Angelo Ogbonna is a major injury doubt but there could be first starts for deadline day signings Nikica Jelavic and Michail Antonio.
Norwich midfielder Alex Tettey is available after a ban, but on-loan winger Matt Jarvis is ineligible to face his parent club. Gary Hooper (ankle) again misses out.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Alistair Mann: "It's highly likely that only West Ham will end the current campaign with victories at Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool. They are, after all, only the fourth side in Premier League history to ever achieve that feat in a single season. "They'll probably be thinking, 'if only we'd been as impressive at Upton Park'. "Home defeats by Leicester and Bournemouth have blotted their stunning start. "You have to go back to March 1989 for Norwich's last success at the Hammers. The hosts will be determined, therefore, not to suffer an 'after the Lord Mayor's Show' performance." Twitter: @alistairmann01
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "Norwich are a really good team. They defend as a unit and are very solid. "They are not a spectacular team but they have everything - pace, ability, size. Their last game at Anfield, maybe Liverpool had just one or two chances. "You can't beat them by being predictable."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
West Ham have had three fantastic away performances - against Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal - that they could only have dreamt of. But I think it will be harder for them at home, firstly because Norwich will not come forward in numbers to allow the Hammers to counter-attack, and also because Slaven Bilic's side are now a real scalp.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have lost only one of their last nine league and cup matches against Norwich (W4, D4).
The Canaries are without a win at West Ham in 26 years since a 2-0 win in March 1989.
Six of the last 10 league encounters have been drawn.
West Ham United
West Ham have 12 points from their opening six games. It is their best Premier League start since 1999-2000, when they had 13 points.
They and Leicester are the division's joint-leading scorers with 13 goals.
Slaven Bilic has used 24 players in the Premier League this season, two more than any other side.
Dimitri Payet has had a hand in 12 goals (four goals, eight assists) in his last 14 league appearances for either West Ham or Marseille.
Diafra Sakho has scored in four of his five Premier League appearances in the month of September.
Norwich City
Norwich's league results this season have followed the same pattern: lost, won drawn, lost, won, drawn.
The Canaries have scored just four goals in their last seven away Premier League games, failing to find the net in five of them.
Only Sunderland and Chelsea have let in more than the 10 goals conceded by Alex Neil's men.
Russell Martin has scored three goals in his last five Premier League games, as many as he did in his previous 86 top-flight appearances.
Martin is the Premier League's top scoring defender, one ahead of both Vincent Kompany and Joel Ward.
Wes Hoolahan has scored or supplied five goals in his last five league appearances for Norwich (one goal, four assists).
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Exclusive Belic Interview
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
He helped the team to draw, when in last minutes he won a penalty for the Irons which youngster Martin Samuelsen converted in to a goal.
And in his first interview he said: "I am not to satisfied, I have could done better and we had to win.
He told the Balkan Hammers:"I'm satisfied that I helped to the team to win a point."
He said he is thrilled with his transfer to England, as it was his dream to play in the Premier league and was delighted with the"wonderful reception" he received from his team mates after joining the Hammers.
He said: "Luka BeliÄIt was better then I imagined, I have a lot of good friends, but Djair (Parfitt-Williams) is my best friend and he has already been involved in the senior squad in qualification matches in European League and we do individual practice together.
The former player of OFK Belgrade also praised the organisation of West Ham.
"Everything is great and on really high level. The pitch is perfect, training conditions are phenomenal like our are coaches too, " he said"
BeliÄ added there was a big difference in the work of West Ham coaches compared to those of his former club.
The young Serbian has been labeled as a big talent with some experts saying that with proper work under coaches at the Academy, he could get a senior squad debut by the end of the season.
Luka-BeliÄThe youngster said: "That is my goal and aim,I want to score goals and assist for U21's and I hope I will by the end of season get a debut for senior squad even if it was in April"
In his match against Newcastle he played together with Michail Antonio. and said: "Yes, Antonio played with us, and our best player in my opinion is Diego Payet" BiliÄ said with a smile.
At the end of his conversation he told the Bakan Hammers, that he owes big gratitude to his father who was biggest supporter and also to Savo MiloÅ”eviÄ and Mitar Mrklela (both former Serbian footballers now part of the management setup at OFK Beograde)
Our thanks at Claret and Hugh goes to the Balkan Hammers for obtaining this interview and translating it for us.
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Cressie would cost Man United £20 million plus
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and hH
West Ham wouldn't consider selling Aaron Creswell to Manchester United or any other top four club for less than £25 million.The Old Trafford club have been reported as being interested in the left back in the next transfer window with Luke Shaw having suffered a horror injury in the Champions League. ClaretandHugh has been told there has been no contact from United but made it clear that were here to be an any interest a fee of around £25 million would be the norm! Prior to the United speculation, Chelsea and Manchester City were both reportedly interested in last season's Hammer of the Year at around £15m but Upton Park insiders have told ClaretandHugh that wildly undervalues the former player in top four terms. We were told exclusively that the price generally accepted as reflecting a player's REAL value doesn't exist when the likes of United, City, Chelsea or Arsenal move in. A high level source explained: "The top clubs know there's absolutely no point in putting in a 'value' bid and should they want and need a player they will need to go in very high.
"There's been no contact and we don't expec t there to be but as far as the top four is concerned Cressie's price would be £25 million plus to Manchester United or a club like it."
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West Ham v Norwich preview: Hammers aim to maintain impressive start to season
Last Updated: 25/09/15 2:28pm
SSN
West Ham United entertain Norwich City at Upton Park on Saturday afternoon, looking to continue their excellent start to the campaign. Slaven Bilic's side go into this match in third place in the Premier League and with wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and last time out leaders Manchester City already under their belts. However, West Ham's home form has been less impressive, with the club suffering surprise defeats against Leicester City and Bournemouth to begin the campaign at the Boleyn Ground. Meanwhile, mid-table Norwich arrive in east London boosted by a 1-1 draw at Liverpool last Sunday, although the Canaries have not won on any of their last 13 top-flight visits to the capital. Alex Neil's men have also struggled to find the back of the net on the road of late, scoring just four times in their previous seven away games in the Premier League, five of which they drew a blank in.
Team news
West Ham boss Bilic has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the visit of Norwich on Saturday. The Hammers could hand first starts to deadline day arrivals Nikica Jelavic and Michail Antonio after both were cup-tied for the Capital One Cup third round extra-time defeat at Leicester on Tuesday night. Andy Carroll could make his first league start since January, but is likely to be on the bench with Diafra Sakho recalled in attack, while Angelo Ogbonna [hamstring] is a major doubt with Alex Song [ankle] and Enner Valencia [knee] definitely out.
Norwich will have midfielder Alex Tettey back from a one-match suspension, but on-loan winger Matt Jarvis is not eligible to face his parent club. Striker Gary Hooper [ankle] remains sidelined, but Kyle Lafferty could be involved after the Northern Ireland international scored in the midweek Capital One Cup win over West Brom. Midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu continues his recovery from a fractured metatarsal.
Opta stats
The Hammers have an unbeaten Premier League record against the Canaries at Upton Park (W2 D2).
West Ham have used 24 different players in the Premier League this season, two more than any other side.
Norwich City have not won any of their last 13 Premier League away games in London (D5 L8).
Dimitri Payet has had a hand in 12 goals (four goals, eight assists) in his last 14 league appearances (Premier League and Ligue 1 combined).
Wes Hoolahan has had a hand in five goals in his last five Premier League appearances for Norwich (one goal, four assists).
The Canaries have scored just four goals in their last seven away Premier League games, failing to find the net in five of these.
Merson's prediction
West Ham have been really good over the last month, and I think they'll win this comfortably. Norwich have a go wherever they are, and they look solid too, but I don't see them living with Slaven Bilic's side. Dimitri Payet has been absolutely superb for West Ham. Outstanding. He does everything, and everyone in that West Ham team are bouncing off him. Managers across the Premier League are thinking 'why didn't we sign him?'.
PAUL PREDICTS: 3-1 (Sky Bet odds 16/1)
Betting
Third-placed West Ham are Sky Bet's 6/5 favourites ahead of the visit of 11/5 shots Norwich with the draw available at 12/5. Despite their start to the campaign, the Hammers are still as big as 8/1 to secure a top-six finish under Slaven Bilic, while Norwich are 1/4 to stay up after some impressive displays.
West Ham have won the last two meetings at Upton Park, scoring exactly two goals on both occasions and can be backed at 5/2 to score two goals in the match. Soccer Saturday pundits Phil Thompson, Matt Le Tissier and Charlie Nicholas are all backing a home win with Diafra Sakho netting the opening goal at 5/1.
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Hammers looking strong for Norwich clash
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Injury-free West Ham will be back to full strength tomorrow – with the exception of Angelo Ogbonna – after the Leicester City defeat in midweek. Cheik Kouyate has recovered from a small knock and is expected to take his place alongside Mark Noble in front of the back four. And that looks certain to ensure that fit again Andy Carroll will be back on the bench as Diafra Sakho again does his amazing job of leading the line. The Senegal striker – despite having the threat of legal action hanging over him – has been in brilliant form moving defenders around this season to create space for the likes of Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini. The Argentine playmaker looks likely to hold onto his place as the manager again goes with the team that beat Manchester City. Carroll looks likely to remain the back up line leader to Sakho with one source telling us that the manager is obviously reluctant to change a formation that is working so well. He said: "The fact that Slaven singled Diafra out for special praise after the City game tells you everything so it seems AC will have to wait for circumstances to intervene to get his chance." Matt Jarvis – who has scored twice for Norwich City this season – will be missing from the Caaries line up as part of the loan deal arrangement
Hammers likely line-up: Adrian; Jenkinson, Reid, Tomkins, Cresswell; Noble, Kouyate; Obiang, Payet, Lanzini, Sakho.
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Bilic: "TV helps big clubs get decisions"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News
C and H
Outspoken Slaven Bilic reckons top clubs receive more big decisions because they are always on Match of the Day earlier. He claims that with the key calls are analysed in a prime-time slot thus putting pressure on officials, while the smaller clubs have to settle for their decisions being on television "at midnight". The Irons boss also wants more TV technology to help officials make the correct calls. Bilic is reported in The Mirror as claiming Europe-wide favouring of big clubs is due to external pressures on referees. He said: "The big clubs are always getting decisions. I don't think it is deliberate. But it is the same in Croatia, Spain, Germany and Turkey. "Besiktas [who he managed last season] was a big club, but I was not happy. And the clubs lower than us were moaning. Kayserispor went down to the second division because something like 20 major decisions went against them. "And I was moaning all the time because of the treatment of, say, Fenerbahce [one of Besiktas' Istanbul neighbours and rivals]. "The biggest clubs also have the biggest press. If they are not given a penalty, it is a big scandal. If a small club is not given one, it is shown at midnight on television, not prime time. "Everything is connected. That's why they are big clubs." The manager saw Mark Noble's Anfield red-card later struck off, complained: "We have been denied two penalties and the goal on Tuesday against Leicester was clearly offside. "I don't feel it was like a major issue on television, but when a big club does it it becomes major."
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Merson predicts another Hammers win
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 25, 2015 in News
C and H
Sky Sports Soccer Saturday pundit Paul Merson predicts another Irons victory. Merson told the Sky Sports website "West Ham have been really good over the last month, and I think they'll win this comfortably. Norwich have a go wherever they are, and they look solid too, but I don't see them living with Slaven Bilic's side." "Dimitri Payet has been absolutely superb for West Ham. Outstanding. He does everything, and everyone in that West Ham team are bouncing off him. Managers across the Premier League are thinking 'why didn't we sign him?'." Paul Merson predicts a 3-1 win for the mighty Hammers.
Meanwhile BBC pundit Mark Lawrenson still can't bring himself to predict a West Ham win suggesting a 1-1 draw. "Norwich got a really good point at Anfield last weekend although I felt they only played well until they got into the final third. The Canaries only really made two opportunities, scoring from one and then forcing Simon Mignolet into a great save with the other." said Lawrenson on the BBC Sport website. "West Ham have had three fantastic away performances – against Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City – that they could only have dreamt of. But I think it will be harder for them at home, firstly because Norwich will not come forward in numbers to allow the Hammers to counter-attack, and also because Slaven Bilic's side are now a real scalp."
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Irons ready to talk a deal on winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Matt Jarvis' absence from the Norwich City team to face the Irons at the Boleyn tomorrow has brought talk of a long term switch to the Canaries onto the agenda again. And with Canaries boss Alex Neil regularly speaking of his admiration for the player both clubs will be hoping they can put a deal together by the end of the campaign. Jarvis has had an impressive start in the green and yellow and the Hammers are following the winger's progress very closely. Manager Alex Neil said of the player recently: "I had a good chat with him before he came here and what I need is hungry players who have a point to prove. "There is no use coming here to pick up their last pay cheque because that is no good to me. We are going to be a hungry group who are going to fight for every point." Neil is understood to be keen to put a deal for the former Wolves man who cost the Irons around £10 million during Sam Allardyce's time in charge.
And the Irons – despite his lack of form and first team action at Upton Park – are in no mood to "give the player away for silly money." A Hammers source said: "He's started well and it may well be that simply needs a change. The better he performs the better for everybody but that's bound to push the price up. "If Norwich want to talk we are ready to listen at any stage of the season but nether they or anyone else will be nicking him on the cheap."
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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic blames Match of the Day for referees favouring top clubs
The Independent
The Croatian says small clubs are disadvantaged when shown "at midnight"
MARK CRITCHLEY Author Biography Friday 25 September 2015
Slaven Bilic thinks the Premier League's top clubs benefit from more favourable refereeing decisions because they appear on Match of the Day earlier. The West Ham United manager believes that by having key calls analysed in relatively long prime-time slots leads to more pressure falling on those officiating big clubs to get their decisions right. Bilic, who wants more technology to be implemented to help referees make the right calls, believes that smaller clubs are at a disadvantage because their decisions are only aired "at midnight". "The big clubs are always getting decisions," said the former Croatia boss. "I don't think it is deliberate. But it is the same in Croatia, Spain, Germany and Turkey. "The biggest clubs also have the biggest press. If they are not given a penalty, it is a big scandal. If a small club is not given one, it is shown at midnight on television, not prime time. "Everything is connected. That's why they are big clubs."
Despite their impressive start to the season, which has seen them pick up wins away against Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, Bilic is unhappy with his side's treatment at the hands of officials. "We have been denied two penalties and the goal on Tuesday night (in the club's League Cup defeat against Leicester) was clearly offside," he said. "I don't feel it was like a major issue on television, but when a big club does it it becomes major."
Mike Dean will take charge of the Hammers' meeting with Norwich City at Upton Park on Saturday having been roundly criticised for his performance during Chelsea and Arsenal's hot-blooded London derby last weekend. If Dean's officiating should spark controversy again, it seems Bilic will not be afraid to take him to task. "I don't understand the managers when they say, 'I will not comment about the referee'. Why?" the former Besiktas manager asked. "How can I not comment about something that influences everything - on me and the whole club's jobs?"
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WEST HAM TO SNUB TOTTENHAM GROUND-SHARE PROPOSAL
By Michael Oliver
readwestham.com
West Ham will reject any proposal from Tottenham over a possible ground share of the Olympic Stadium in the 2017/18 season. Spurs are in the process of constructing a new 58,000-seater stadium as they prepare to leave White Hart Lane in the summer of 2017. However, there have been delays to the completion of the new stadium project until 2018, which leaves Tottenham effectively homeless for a season. Many contingency plans have been suggested for Tottenham, such as using Wembley Stadium for their home games that season, but that's unlikely to be sanctioned as Chelsea are poised to pen a three-year tenancy from the 2017/18 season onwards. Spurs held preliminary talks with the London Legacy Development Company over 18 months ago, say the Daily Mail, over a one-year tenancy alongside primary tenants West Ham, despite the then-ongoing legal investigation into the awarding of the Olympic Stadium to the Hammers.
The Daily Mail go on to state that they understand West Ham no veto in the situation, despite West Ham saying otherwise this time last year when the proposal was last suggested. Speaking in the Guardian, vice-chairwoman Karren Brady stated that a possible one-year ground share with any club was possible, but only with their say-so. In reality they probably could – but only with our permission. No-one has asked us for our permission and if they did we would probably say no, depending on who it is – if you get my drift. If you want to read between the lines and make your own inference of the situation, Brady suggests that West Ham wouldn't want to share the Olympic Stadium with certain clubs.
You could suggest that Tottenham are ruled out based on the tension between the opposing fanbases, their persistent enquiries into the awarding process of the tenancy rights, and the difficulties between the two clubs in recent transfer windows, most notably regarding striker Emmanuel Adebayor.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet and Slaven Bilic earn praise from Winston Reid
ESPN
ESPN FC's Craig Burley dissects another amazing away-day performance from West Ham, inflicting Man City's first Premier League defeat of the season. West Ham defender Winston Reid has praised the effect Slaven Bilic has had at the club, and hailed Dimitri Payet as a "special player". Formerly a fans' favourite during an 18-month spell as a player at Upton Park, Bilic replaced Sam Allardyce in the summer and is already enjoying a positive relationship with a supporter base who, on the whole, never warmed to his predecessor. Successive away league wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City have done Bilic's popularity no harm, despite an early exit in Europa League qualification and home defeats to Leicester and Bournemouth.
A maiden home league victory against struggling Newcastle followed up by a hard-fought 2-1 win at City has left West Ham third in the Premier League ahead of Saturday's visit of Norwich.
With Bilic looking to maintain the momentum of recent weeks -- despite an extra time loss to Leicester in the Capital One Cup in midweek -- Reid has been impressed by what he has seen from the former Besiktas boss. "A huge amount of credit, deservedly, has gone to the manager. He has been first-class ever since he started," the New Zealand international said. "Slaven is a very relaxed guy and he's good to the players. He clearly hasn't forgotten what it's like to be a footballer himself, which is a crucial characteristic. "We had a slightly unusual preseason where we were getting used to his new ideas but also trying to qualify for the Europa League. Unfortunately we didn't quite manage that, but afterwards we had a team meeting and we said we need to focus on the Premier League. "Most importantly, the new manager came in with new ideas that are easily understood. He's a great communicator. He likes to get hands-on in training which is good. He's very engaging and the players like working for him."
Bilic has also received widespread praise for West Ham's transfer dealings, with Dimitri Payet arguably one of the most impressive summer arrivals into the Premier League. While his manager has said the attacking midfielder has "magic in his boots," Reid has also seen plenty from the France international and is glad to see record signing Andy Carroll back playing after another long injury setback. Dimiri Payet has set the Premier League alight after joining from Marseille. "Another hot topic at the moment is Dimitri Payet," added Reid. "I don't need to say much as he lets his football do the talking. He's obviously a special player and he's a joy to play alongside. He's also very personable and easy to get along with. "On Tuesday, it was great to have Andy back, it's always hard when you're injured but he's done well to keep coming back from injury. He's a great player and we're delighted to have him back. We all know what he can bring to the team when he's on form. "We've also got Enner Valencia and Alex Song to come back too, so there's plenty of positivity around the training ground."
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West Ham and Slaven Bilic a perfect mix before Olympic move
Slaven Bilic was popular as a West Ham player because he represented something progressive. As manager, he is proving popular for similar reasons
Thursday 24 September 2015 18.00 BST Last modified on Friday 25 September 2015 00.02 BST
The Guardian
Euphoric, a little bedraggled, flashing around his rock star's poetic licence (he is after all still a guitar player in the progressive metal band Rawbau) Slaven Bilic just about got away with describing beating Manchester City at the Etihad last weekend as like walking into "a pub full of girls". It may, however, be worth taking a deep breath before describing his feelings if results once again fall Bilic's way on Saturday.
Another defeat for City at Tottenham Hotspur combined with a win for West Ham United at home to Norwich City could leave the Hammers top of the league for the first time since August 2005, and for the first time this deep into the season since Trevor Brooking was in the team. Like Bilic's all-female pub of the imagination, this is in itself a slightly improbable scenario given West Ham have also lost to Bournemouth and Leicester City at home, added 12 new players over the summer and spent the second half of last season displaying all the raw competitive zeal of a house brick.
These are changing times though and once again Bilic appears to have arrived at Upton Park at both the start and the end of something. The victories at Liverpool, Arsenal and City were brilliantly executed by a team set up to play at speed on the break. But they also chimed with the aspirational qualities of this mid-gentrification West Ham, a club facing perhaps the most profound change of gear in its professional history in the next few years.
On Thursday Bilic was able to play down the likelihood Andy Carroll would be fit to play much of a part against Norwich this weekend. "Andy can't be doing more in training," Bilic said "He is working so hard … but after seven months, these things take time." Carroll is of course still West Ham's record signing, as Bilic himself once was, having joined from Karlsruher in 1995 for £1.3m. If he is unlikely to be rushed back this is in part because Bilic currently has at his disposal four of West Ham's all-time most expensive signings.
This is not just the costliest squad in the club's history, but arguably one with even more depth than the last really upwardly mobile West Ham of the early Harry Redknapp years, when some energetic transfer activity, buttressed by Frank Lampard and Rio Ferdinand, led to a fifth-placed Premier League finish in 1999.
Bilic was long gone by then. Indeed there has been a degree of myth-making about his time at the club as a player, a spell of 18 months, 54 games and one runner-up spot to Julian Dicks as Hammer of the Year that has led to him being described now and then as "a club legend". And yet Bilic's time at West Ham was undeniably intriguing, an echo of the present perhaps with its rash of bolt-on overseas stars: Florin Raducioiu, Hugo Porfírio and the great Paulo Futre, who played nine games before abruptly retiring.
Bilic the player was popular as much for his obvious charisma and the fact he seemed to represent something progressive and forward-looking. As perhaps he does now as the club counts down to signing off on the Boleyn Ground and a leap into the long-lease unknown. The manager is still a very potent figure at a club that has only ever had 15 of them. If Bilic feels reassuringly West Ham, there is also something reassuringly personable about him, not to mention at times reassuringly chaotic.
If the meat-and-potatoes stability of the Sam Allardyce years offended the West Ham sensibilities, the onset of Bilicism has at the very least been eventful. So far the season has brought six red cards, one drawn match in 13, and 34 players used across three competitions. The positives through this have been obvious enough. Mark Noble is perfectly cast as West Ham captain. Winston Reid and James Tomkins have been rugged in defence. The new signings have largely been hits, most obviously Dimitri Payet, who plays a slightly different role but has already stirred memories of Carlos Tevez with his swagger and his upright, muscular creative style. "He is special," Bilic said this week. "This is why we signed him."
Of course, nobody realistically expects West Ham to keep this up without a hitch. The Bilic bounce is based to a degree on the fact their season started in early July, giving them a running start on the rest. Other teams will now be forewarned of that pacey, counterattacking style away from home, of Payet's influence, and of some possible weaknesses behind the first choice full-backs when West Ham attack in numbers at home. Plus of course Allardyce's team were also fourth at Christmas last year before packing up for summer five months early.
If this season feels different then this is, after all, a rare moment in the club's history. For now at least this Stratford-bound West Ham, with a ground to fill and a brand to sell, seem to have found a manager with just the right amount of homespun pizzazz.
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WHUFC.com
Norwich have started the season strongly
The Background
West Ham United return to Barclays Premier League action on Saturday looking to extend their winning run of games in the League to four matches.
The Hammers entertain newly promoted Norwich City, who have defied expectations so far. The Canaries are currently eleventh with eight points from their opening six games.
Alex Neil's men recorded impressive wins over AFC Bournemouth and Sunderland, and go into Saturday's game full of confidence following their 1-1 draw away at Liverpool.
They continued their run of form with a resounding 3-0 win over West Bromiwch Albion in midweek – West Ham loanee Matt Jarvis, scoring his second goal for the Norfolk side in just three appearances.
Meanwhile the Hammers maintained their 100% away record with a third historic win over table toppers Manchester City. If results go the Hammers' way, they could go top of the league by Saturday afternoon.
The History
West Ham United have officially faced Norwich City just 50 times in the Football League, Premier League and domestic cup competitions. The Hammers have won 19, Norwich 16 and 15 matches have ended in draws.
The first-ever meeting between the two sides came on 6 October 1934, with John James Foreman and Hugh Mills scoring in a 2-1 West Ham win at The Nest in Division Two.
West Ham were the first club to visit Norwich's present Carrow Road home, losing a Division Two fixture 4-3 on 31 August 1935. The Hammers visited again in pre-season to mark the 80th anniversary of the stadium, winning 1-0 through Harry Toffolo's own-goal.
The last competitive game between the two sides, in February 2014, resulted in a 2-0 win for West Ham. James Collins and Mo Diame scored in the last six minutes to secure the Hammers three valuable points.
Andy Carroll started against Leicester City in midweek
Match Info
Team News
West Ham United
Despite the Hammers' busy schedule, Slaven Bilic has a relatively healthy squad to select from.
Diafra Sakho missed the trip to the King Power Stadium however he should be available. Andy Carroll made his first start in seven months against the Foxes while Mauro Zarate scored on his return, giving Bilic several different options up front.
Having missed the victory over Manchester City through injury, Cheikhou Kouyate is back in contention to play on Saturday.
Angelo Ogbonna (hamstring), Joey O'Brien (calf), Alex Song (foot) and Enner Valencia (knee) are all unavailable but are making good progress in their recoveries.
Norwich City
Canaries' boss Alen Neil has a near full strength team to play with as the only absentees are Gary Hooper (ankle) and Youssef Mulumbu (metartarsal).
Matt Jarvis is ineligible to play against his parent club.
Match facts
Saturday's referee is Mike Dean. He will be assisted by Simon Long and Stuart Burt. The fourth official is Kevin Friend.
West Ham have lost only one of their last nine league and cup matches against Norwich (W4, D4).
The Canaries are without a win at West Ham in 26 years since a 2-0 win in March 1989.
West Ham have scored eight goals from open play – the second highest in the league, behind Manchester City. Norwich City are in eighth place with six goals from open play.
The Hammers have hit 79 long balls this season – joint top with Watford. Norwich are tenth having hit just 67.
Tickets, coverage, weather and other info
Tickets have sold out for the game, but may become available online as Season Ticket Holders relist on Ticket Trader.
You can follow the matchday live on our official Twitter and Facebook pages, as well as in our live match centre here on whufc.com. Get involved with the conversation on Twitter using #WHUNOR.
Saturday is looking like a cloudy day, although there should be bursts on sunshine. Temperature is predicted to be 17C (63F) at kick-off.
The District and Hammersmith & City lines serving Upton Park station are scheduled to run as normal on Saturday. Check tfl.gov.uk for up-to-the-minute reports.
The latest news on National Rail services can be found here, while information on the roads is here.
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Westley pens new Hammers deal
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Academy Manager & Head of Player Development Coaching Terry Westley has signed a new five-year contract with the Club.
Having joined the Hammers in July 2014, Westley has overseen the development of the next generation of Hammers stars, with many of his charges being given a first team opportunity at the start of the 2015/16 season.
Reece Oxford and Josh Cullen have both made their Barclays Premier League debuts already this year, while a further six Academy products made their debuts in the Club's UEFA Europa League campaign.
Hammers Vice-Chairman Karren Brady says Westley's new contract is just reward for an impressive first year at the Club.
Ms Brady said: "We are pleased to have agreed a new long-term contract with Terry, who has brought fresh ideas and impetus to the Academy since he joined the Club last year.
"This Club has an outstanding reputation for nurturing homegrown talent, so we have been thrilled to see the impact our youngsters have had in the first team this year.
"Terry's dedication and drive to keep the Academy moving forward has impressed us all and we're looking forward to working with him across the next five years and I'm sure we will continue to see young players coming through to establish themselves at West Ham United."
Westley added: "I want to say a big thank-you to the Board and to Karren for the new deal. I would also like to thank all of my staff since I have arrived here for the work they have done.
"I think it cements the idea that we are going to try and put something in place over the next five-years. Like Slaven, we want a long-term strategy and philosophy.
"Can we build something at the football club when we move into the new stadium with the young players being a part of that? Can we get 30 per cent of the team home-grown and produce the right type of players? All of that takes time but we have made a start.
"This now gives us a chance to establish that strategy and philosophy and I am delighted that I am going to be here for a long time."
Westley's oversees the Hammers' Academy teams from U21 downwards and before arriving in East London, worked to develop young players at the likes of Ipswich Town, Luton Town, Derby County and Birmingham City before moving to a senior role at the Premier League.
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Young Hammers set for double header
WHUFC.com
Having picked up there first point of the season with a 2-2 draw on Monday, the Development Squad make a fast return to action as they travel to play Stoke City on Saturday 26 September.
The young Hammers took an early lead through Jordan Brown's fine finish after just four minutes but were pegged back by goals from Ivan Toney and Callum Roberts.
However, with just seconds remaining, Martin Samuelsen confidently tucked away his spot-kick to rescue his side a point.
Saturday's hosts Stoke City on the other hand have found points difficult to come by of late, after a strong start to the campaign.
Having drawn with Aston Villa on the opening day, they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0. Since then, they've scored once in three games, slipping to defeats to Swansea City, Fulham, Brighton and Hove Albion.
Should Terry Westley's men get all three points, they could climb up the Barclays U21 Premier League second division table to eighth, leapfrogging the Potters in the process.
Meanwhile, the West Ham United U18s are also in action on a busy Saturday for the Hammers.
On the back of beating league leaders' Chelsea 2-0 last weekend, the young Irons travel to the South Coast to play Southampton.
After six games, the Saints, on six points, are just a point ahead of their east London rivals with five.
The Development Squad play Stoke City at Macclesfield Town's Moss Rose stadium, kick off is 2pm while the U18s' game at Southampton's Staplewood Training Ground. Make sure you follow @whufc_official and whufc.com for updates, match reports and reaction.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic says even fans of other clubs are getting behind his happy Hammers
0 COMMENTS 22:30, 25 SEP 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
West Ham were booed by their own fans under Sam Allardyce but an incredible hat-trick of away wins under Bilic has made them the neutrals' favourite again
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has revealed that even fans at other clubs have congratulated him on West Ham's stunning start to the season. The Hammers were booed by their own supporters under Sam Allardyce last season. But after an incredible hat-trick of away wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, the Croat has rediscovered the attractive West Ham way – and made the East End club the neutrals' favourite again.
"We have an army of fans, but it is not only our fans, it is other clubs' fans – football fans – who are congratulating me," Bilic said. "West Ham fans are delighted, but other fans say, 'Well done' and all that. Getting praise from football fans is the best. It's a great feeling."
West Ham sit in third as London's top club before Saturday's visit of fellow away-day specialists Norwich. And after a similarly strong start last season, Bilic reckons has told everyone at the club to enjoy the success while it lasts. "Everything goes really quickly in football and in life," he reasoned. I'm not denying that, there is no point not enjoying the good spells. I said to my staff the other day, 'We've done good, why shouldn't we enjoy it a little bit because when the bad days come we won't enjoy it?' "There's no reasons we could not be confident or proud. But the one condition is they stay on the ground and be even more motivated. "If you're going to win, you need some magic, but most of the game is about fighting and battling. "When you say fighting, you think anyone can do it and it is down to your attitude, but it is quality defending. It doesn't only require will and strong character, but also brains and quality on the pitch."
Norwich defender Sebastien Bassong is targeting a hat-trick of wins against West Ham when his team visit. The big Cameroon international centre-half said: "I have won there with Newcastle and Spurs in the Premier League. But I haven't won there with Norwich yet, so hopefully I can put that right this time."
Bassong is not bothered one bit either about playing in front of the fanatical Hammers support. He said: "I have never found it to be a particularly intimidating place in the past. It's no different to any other Premier League ground. You just have to go there and handle the pressure."
West Ham have had memorable success on the road so far this season. But Bassong warned the Hammers they will have to change their game plan at Upton Park. He said: "Away from home they can sit back and just play counter attacking football. But against us at home they will have to come out and ttack more to keep the fans happy. "So I think it will be a little bit different for them in the way they set up to play."
The Canaries were pre-season favourites for relegation, but are currently sitting in 11th position in the Premier League. And Bassong admits he enjoyed Norwich being above big teams like Chelsea and Liverpool in the table. He said: "We have made a good start and it's definitely better than struggling from the start. "We are in a really good position at present and the team is looking very competitive."
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West Ham v Norwich
KO 15:00
Only once in Premier League history have West Ham had more points at this stage - 13 points in 1999-2000.
25 September 2015
Last updated at 12:57
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 26 September
TEAM NEWS
West Ham striker Andy Carroll played 63 minutes in the League Cup on Tuesday but is unlikely to make his first league start since January. Angelo Ogbonna is a major injury doubt but there could be first starts for deadline day signings Nikica Jelavic and Michail Antonio.
Norwich midfielder Alex Tettey is available after a ban, but on-loan winger Matt Jarvis is ineligible to face his parent club. Gary Hooper (ankle) again misses out.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Alistair Mann: "It's highly likely that only West Ham will end the current campaign with victories at Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool. They are, after all, only the fourth side in Premier League history to ever achieve that feat in a single season. "They'll probably be thinking, 'if only we'd been as impressive at Upton Park'. "Home defeats by Leicester and Bournemouth have blotted their stunning start. "You have to go back to March 1989 for Norwich's last success at the Hammers. The hosts will be determined, therefore, not to suffer an 'after the Lord Mayor's Show' performance." Twitter: @alistairmann01
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "Norwich are a really good team. They defend as a unit and are very solid. "They are not a spectacular team but they have everything - pace, ability, size. Their last game at Anfield, maybe Liverpool had just one or two chances. "You can't beat them by being predictable."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
West Ham have had three fantastic away performances - against Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal - that they could only have dreamt of. But I think it will be harder for them at home, firstly because Norwich will not come forward in numbers to allow the Hammers to counter-attack, and also because Slaven Bilic's side are now a real scalp.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have lost only one of their last nine league and cup matches against Norwich (W4, D4).
The Canaries are without a win at West Ham in 26 years since a 2-0 win in March 1989.
Six of the last 10 league encounters have been drawn.
West Ham United
West Ham have 12 points from their opening six games. It is their best Premier League start since 1999-2000, when they had 13 points.
They and Leicester are the division's joint-leading scorers with 13 goals.
Slaven Bilic has used 24 players in the Premier League this season, two more than any other side.
Dimitri Payet has had a hand in 12 goals (four goals, eight assists) in his last 14 league appearances for either West Ham or Marseille.
Diafra Sakho has scored in four of his five Premier League appearances in the month of September.
Norwich City
Norwich's league results this season have followed the same pattern: lost, won drawn, lost, won, drawn.
The Canaries have scored just four goals in their last seven away Premier League games, failing to find the net in five of them.
Only Sunderland and Chelsea have let in more than the 10 goals conceded by Alex Neil's men.
Russell Martin has scored three goals in his last five Premier League games, as many as he did in his previous 86 top-flight appearances.
Martin is the Premier League's top scoring defender, one ahead of both Vincent Kompany and Joel Ward.
Wes Hoolahan has scored or supplied five goals in his last five league appearances for Norwich (one goal, four assists).
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Exclusive Belic Interview
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
He helped the team to draw, when in last minutes he won a penalty for the Irons which youngster Martin Samuelsen converted in to a goal.
And in his first interview he said: "I am not to satisfied, I have could done better and we had to win.
He told the Balkan Hammers:"I'm satisfied that I helped to the team to win a point."
He said he is thrilled with his transfer to England, as it was his dream to play in the Premier league and was delighted with the"wonderful reception" he received from his team mates after joining the Hammers.
He said: "Luka BeliÄIt was better then I imagined, I have a lot of good friends, but Djair (Parfitt-Williams) is my best friend and he has already been involved in the senior squad in qualification matches in European League and we do individual practice together.
The former player of OFK Belgrade also praised the organisation of West Ham.
"Everything is great and on really high level. The pitch is perfect, training conditions are phenomenal like our are coaches too, " he said"
BeliÄ added there was a big difference in the work of West Ham coaches compared to those of his former club.
The young Serbian has been labeled as a big talent with some experts saying that with proper work under coaches at the Academy, he could get a senior squad debut by the end of the season.
Luka-BeliÄThe youngster said: "That is my goal and aim,I want to score goals and assist for U21's and I hope I will by the end of season get a debut for senior squad even if it was in April"
In his match against Newcastle he played together with Michail Antonio. and said: "Yes, Antonio played with us, and our best player in my opinion is Diego Payet" BiliÄ said with a smile.
At the end of his conversation he told the Bakan Hammers, that he owes big gratitude to his father who was biggest supporter and also to Savo MiloÅ”eviÄ and Mitar Mrklela (both former Serbian footballers now part of the management setup at OFK Beograde)
Our thanks at Claret and Hugh goes to the Balkan Hammers for obtaining this interview and translating it for us.
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Cressie would cost Man United £20 million plus
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and hH
West Ham wouldn't consider selling Aaron Creswell to Manchester United or any other top four club for less than £25 million.The Old Trafford club have been reported as being interested in the left back in the next transfer window with Luke Shaw having suffered a horror injury in the Champions League. ClaretandHugh has been told there has been no contact from United but made it clear that were here to be an any interest a fee of around £25 million would be the norm! Prior to the United speculation, Chelsea and Manchester City were both reportedly interested in last season's Hammer of the Year at around £15m but Upton Park insiders have told ClaretandHugh that wildly undervalues the former player in top four terms. We were told exclusively that the price generally accepted as reflecting a player's REAL value doesn't exist when the likes of United, City, Chelsea or Arsenal move in. A high level source explained: "The top clubs know there's absolutely no point in putting in a 'value' bid and should they want and need a player they will need to go in very high.
"There's been no contact and we don't expec t there to be but as far as the top four is concerned Cressie's price would be £25 million plus to Manchester United or a club like it."
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West Ham v Norwich preview: Hammers aim to maintain impressive start to season
Last Updated: 25/09/15 2:28pm
SSN
West Ham United entertain Norwich City at Upton Park on Saturday afternoon, looking to continue their excellent start to the campaign. Slaven Bilic's side go into this match in third place in the Premier League and with wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and last time out leaders Manchester City already under their belts. However, West Ham's home form has been less impressive, with the club suffering surprise defeats against Leicester City and Bournemouth to begin the campaign at the Boleyn Ground. Meanwhile, mid-table Norwich arrive in east London boosted by a 1-1 draw at Liverpool last Sunday, although the Canaries have not won on any of their last 13 top-flight visits to the capital. Alex Neil's men have also struggled to find the back of the net on the road of late, scoring just four times in their previous seven away games in the Premier League, five of which they drew a blank in.
Team news
West Ham boss Bilic has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the visit of Norwich on Saturday. The Hammers could hand first starts to deadline day arrivals Nikica Jelavic and Michail Antonio after both were cup-tied for the Capital One Cup third round extra-time defeat at Leicester on Tuesday night. Andy Carroll could make his first league start since January, but is likely to be on the bench with Diafra Sakho recalled in attack, while Angelo Ogbonna [hamstring] is a major doubt with Alex Song [ankle] and Enner Valencia [knee] definitely out.
Norwich will have midfielder Alex Tettey back from a one-match suspension, but on-loan winger Matt Jarvis is not eligible to face his parent club. Striker Gary Hooper [ankle] remains sidelined, but Kyle Lafferty could be involved after the Northern Ireland international scored in the midweek Capital One Cup win over West Brom. Midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu continues his recovery from a fractured metatarsal.
Opta stats
The Hammers have an unbeaten Premier League record against the Canaries at Upton Park (W2 D2).
West Ham have used 24 different players in the Premier League this season, two more than any other side.
Norwich City have not won any of their last 13 Premier League away games in London (D5 L8).
Dimitri Payet has had a hand in 12 goals (four goals, eight assists) in his last 14 league appearances (Premier League and Ligue 1 combined).
Wes Hoolahan has had a hand in five goals in his last five Premier League appearances for Norwich (one goal, four assists).
The Canaries have scored just four goals in their last seven away Premier League games, failing to find the net in five of these.
Merson's prediction
West Ham have been really good over the last month, and I think they'll win this comfortably. Norwich have a go wherever they are, and they look solid too, but I don't see them living with Slaven Bilic's side. Dimitri Payet has been absolutely superb for West Ham. Outstanding. He does everything, and everyone in that West Ham team are bouncing off him. Managers across the Premier League are thinking 'why didn't we sign him?'.
PAUL PREDICTS: 3-1 (Sky Bet odds 16/1)
Betting
Third-placed West Ham are Sky Bet's 6/5 favourites ahead of the visit of 11/5 shots Norwich with the draw available at 12/5. Despite their start to the campaign, the Hammers are still as big as 8/1 to secure a top-six finish under Slaven Bilic, while Norwich are 1/4 to stay up after some impressive displays.
West Ham have won the last two meetings at Upton Park, scoring exactly two goals on both occasions and can be backed at 5/2 to score two goals in the match. Soccer Saturday pundits Phil Thompson, Matt Le Tissier and Charlie Nicholas are all backing a home win with Diafra Sakho netting the opening goal at 5/1.
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Hammers looking strong for Norwich clash
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Injury-free West Ham will be back to full strength tomorrow – with the exception of Angelo Ogbonna – after the Leicester City defeat in midweek. Cheik Kouyate has recovered from a small knock and is expected to take his place alongside Mark Noble in front of the back four. And that looks certain to ensure that fit again Andy Carroll will be back on the bench as Diafra Sakho again does his amazing job of leading the line. The Senegal striker – despite having the threat of legal action hanging over him – has been in brilliant form moving defenders around this season to create space for the likes of Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini. The Argentine playmaker looks likely to hold onto his place as the manager again goes with the team that beat Manchester City. Carroll looks likely to remain the back up line leader to Sakho with one source telling us that the manager is obviously reluctant to change a formation that is working so well. He said: "The fact that Slaven singled Diafra out for special praise after the City game tells you everything so it seems AC will have to wait for circumstances to intervene to get his chance." Matt Jarvis – who has scored twice for Norwich City this season – will be missing from the Caaries line up as part of the loan deal arrangement
Hammers likely line-up: Adrian; Jenkinson, Reid, Tomkins, Cresswell; Noble, Kouyate; Obiang, Payet, Lanzini, Sakho.
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Bilic: "TV helps big clubs get decisions"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News
C and H
Outspoken Slaven Bilic reckons top clubs receive more big decisions because they are always on Match of the Day earlier. He claims that with the key calls are analysed in a prime-time slot thus putting pressure on officials, while the smaller clubs have to settle for their decisions being on television "at midnight". The Irons boss also wants more TV technology to help officials make the correct calls. Bilic is reported in The Mirror as claiming Europe-wide favouring of big clubs is due to external pressures on referees. He said: "The big clubs are always getting decisions. I don't think it is deliberate. But it is the same in Croatia, Spain, Germany and Turkey. "Besiktas [who he managed last season] was a big club, but I was not happy. And the clubs lower than us were moaning. Kayserispor went down to the second division because something like 20 major decisions went against them. "And I was moaning all the time because of the treatment of, say, Fenerbahce [one of Besiktas' Istanbul neighbours and rivals]. "The biggest clubs also have the biggest press. If they are not given a penalty, it is a big scandal. If a small club is not given one, it is shown at midnight on television, not prime time. "Everything is connected. That's why they are big clubs." The manager saw Mark Noble's Anfield red-card later struck off, complained: "We have been denied two penalties and the goal on Tuesday against Leicester was clearly offside. "I don't feel it was like a major issue on television, but when a big club does it it becomes major."
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Merson predicts another Hammers win
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 25, 2015 in News
C and H
Sky Sports Soccer Saturday pundit Paul Merson predicts another Irons victory. Merson told the Sky Sports website "West Ham have been really good over the last month, and I think they'll win this comfortably. Norwich have a go wherever they are, and they look solid too, but I don't see them living with Slaven Bilic's side." "Dimitri Payet has been absolutely superb for West Ham. Outstanding. He does everything, and everyone in that West Ham team are bouncing off him. Managers across the Premier League are thinking 'why didn't we sign him?'." Paul Merson predicts a 3-1 win for the mighty Hammers.
Meanwhile BBC pundit Mark Lawrenson still can't bring himself to predict a West Ham win suggesting a 1-1 draw. "Norwich got a really good point at Anfield last weekend although I felt they only played well until they got into the final third. The Canaries only really made two opportunities, scoring from one and then forcing Simon Mignolet into a great save with the other." said Lawrenson on the BBC Sport website. "West Ham have had three fantastic away performances – against Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City – that they could only have dreamt of. But I think it will be harder for them at home, firstly because Norwich will not come forward in numbers to allow the Hammers to counter-attack, and also because Slaven Bilic's side are now a real scalp."
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Irons ready to talk a deal on winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Matt Jarvis' absence from the Norwich City team to face the Irons at the Boleyn tomorrow has brought talk of a long term switch to the Canaries onto the agenda again. And with Canaries boss Alex Neil regularly speaking of his admiration for the player both clubs will be hoping they can put a deal together by the end of the campaign. Jarvis has had an impressive start in the green and yellow and the Hammers are following the winger's progress very closely. Manager Alex Neil said of the player recently: "I had a good chat with him before he came here and what I need is hungry players who have a point to prove. "There is no use coming here to pick up their last pay cheque because that is no good to me. We are going to be a hungry group who are going to fight for every point." Neil is understood to be keen to put a deal for the former Wolves man who cost the Irons around £10 million during Sam Allardyce's time in charge.
And the Irons – despite his lack of form and first team action at Upton Park – are in no mood to "give the player away for silly money." A Hammers source said: "He's started well and it may well be that simply needs a change. The better he performs the better for everybody but that's bound to push the price up. "If Norwich want to talk we are ready to listen at any stage of the season but nether they or anyone else will be nicking him on the cheap."
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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic blames Match of the Day for referees favouring top clubs
The Independent
The Croatian says small clubs are disadvantaged when shown "at midnight"
MARK CRITCHLEY Author Biography Friday 25 September 2015
Slaven Bilic thinks the Premier League's top clubs benefit from more favourable refereeing decisions because they appear on Match of the Day earlier. The West Ham United manager believes that by having key calls analysed in relatively long prime-time slots leads to more pressure falling on those officiating big clubs to get their decisions right. Bilic, who wants more technology to be implemented to help referees make the right calls, believes that smaller clubs are at a disadvantage because their decisions are only aired "at midnight". "The big clubs are always getting decisions," said the former Croatia boss. "I don't think it is deliberate. But it is the same in Croatia, Spain, Germany and Turkey. "The biggest clubs also have the biggest press. If they are not given a penalty, it is a big scandal. If a small club is not given one, it is shown at midnight on television, not prime time. "Everything is connected. That's why they are big clubs."
Despite their impressive start to the season, which has seen them pick up wins away against Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, Bilic is unhappy with his side's treatment at the hands of officials. "We have been denied two penalties and the goal on Tuesday night (in the club's League Cup defeat against Leicester) was clearly offside," he said. "I don't feel it was like a major issue on television, but when a big club does it it becomes major."
Mike Dean will take charge of the Hammers' meeting with Norwich City at Upton Park on Saturday having been roundly criticised for his performance during Chelsea and Arsenal's hot-blooded London derby last weekend. If Dean's officiating should spark controversy again, it seems Bilic will not be afraid to take him to task. "I don't understand the managers when they say, 'I will not comment about the referee'. Why?" the former Besiktas manager asked. "How can I not comment about something that influences everything - on me and the whole club's jobs?"
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WEST HAM TO SNUB TOTTENHAM GROUND-SHARE PROPOSAL
By Michael Oliver
readwestham.com
West Ham will reject any proposal from Tottenham over a possible ground share of the Olympic Stadium in the 2017/18 season. Spurs are in the process of constructing a new 58,000-seater stadium as they prepare to leave White Hart Lane in the summer of 2017. However, there have been delays to the completion of the new stadium project until 2018, which leaves Tottenham effectively homeless for a season. Many contingency plans have been suggested for Tottenham, such as using Wembley Stadium for their home games that season, but that's unlikely to be sanctioned as Chelsea are poised to pen a three-year tenancy from the 2017/18 season onwards. Spurs held preliminary talks with the London Legacy Development Company over 18 months ago, say the Daily Mail, over a one-year tenancy alongside primary tenants West Ham, despite the then-ongoing legal investigation into the awarding of the Olympic Stadium to the Hammers.
The Daily Mail go on to state that they understand West Ham no veto in the situation, despite West Ham saying otherwise this time last year when the proposal was last suggested. Speaking in the Guardian, vice-chairwoman Karren Brady stated that a possible one-year ground share with any club was possible, but only with their say-so. In reality they probably could – but only with our permission. No-one has asked us for our permission and if they did we would probably say no, depending on who it is – if you get my drift. If you want to read between the lines and make your own inference of the situation, Brady suggests that West Ham wouldn't want to share the Olympic Stadium with certain clubs.
You could suggest that Tottenham are ruled out based on the tension between the opposing fanbases, their persistent enquiries into the awarding process of the tenancy rights, and the difficulties between the two clubs in recent transfer windows, most notably regarding striker Emmanuel Adebayor.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet and Slaven Bilic earn praise from Winston Reid
ESPN
ESPN FC's Craig Burley dissects another amazing away-day performance from West Ham, inflicting Man City's first Premier League defeat of the season. West Ham defender Winston Reid has praised the effect Slaven Bilic has had at the club, and hailed Dimitri Payet as a "special player". Formerly a fans' favourite during an 18-month spell as a player at Upton Park, Bilic replaced Sam Allardyce in the summer and is already enjoying a positive relationship with a supporter base who, on the whole, never warmed to his predecessor. Successive away league wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City have done Bilic's popularity no harm, despite an early exit in Europa League qualification and home defeats to Leicester and Bournemouth.
A maiden home league victory against struggling Newcastle followed up by a hard-fought 2-1 win at City has left West Ham third in the Premier League ahead of Saturday's visit of Norwich.
With Bilic looking to maintain the momentum of recent weeks -- despite an extra time loss to Leicester in the Capital One Cup in midweek -- Reid has been impressed by what he has seen from the former Besiktas boss. "A huge amount of credit, deservedly, has gone to the manager. He has been first-class ever since he started," the New Zealand international said. "Slaven is a very relaxed guy and he's good to the players. He clearly hasn't forgotten what it's like to be a footballer himself, which is a crucial characteristic. "We had a slightly unusual preseason where we were getting used to his new ideas but also trying to qualify for the Europa League. Unfortunately we didn't quite manage that, but afterwards we had a team meeting and we said we need to focus on the Premier League. "Most importantly, the new manager came in with new ideas that are easily understood. He's a great communicator. He likes to get hands-on in training which is good. He's very engaging and the players like working for him."
Bilic has also received widespread praise for West Ham's transfer dealings, with Dimitri Payet arguably one of the most impressive summer arrivals into the Premier League. While his manager has said the attacking midfielder has "magic in his boots," Reid has also seen plenty from the France international and is glad to see record signing Andy Carroll back playing after another long injury setback. Dimiri Payet has set the Premier League alight after joining from Marseille. "Another hot topic at the moment is Dimitri Payet," added Reid. "I don't need to say much as he lets his football do the talking. He's obviously a special player and he's a joy to play alongside. He's also very personable and easy to get along with. "On Tuesday, it was great to have Andy back, it's always hard when you're injured but he's done well to keep coming back from injury. He's a great player and we're delighted to have him back. We all know what he can bring to the team when he's on form. "We've also got Enner Valencia and Alex Song to come back too, so there's plenty of positivity around the training ground."
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West Ham and Slaven Bilic a perfect mix before Olympic move
Slaven Bilic was popular as a West Ham player because he represented something progressive. As manager, he is proving popular for similar reasons
Thursday 24 September 2015 18.00 BST Last modified on Friday 25 September 2015 00.02 BST
The Guardian
Euphoric, a little bedraggled, flashing around his rock star's poetic licence (he is after all still a guitar player in the progressive metal band Rawbau) Slaven Bilic just about got away with describing beating Manchester City at the Etihad last weekend as like walking into "a pub full of girls". It may, however, be worth taking a deep breath before describing his feelings if results once again fall Bilic's way on Saturday.
Another defeat for City at Tottenham Hotspur combined with a win for West Ham United at home to Norwich City could leave the Hammers top of the league for the first time since August 2005, and for the first time this deep into the season since Trevor Brooking was in the team. Like Bilic's all-female pub of the imagination, this is in itself a slightly improbable scenario given West Ham have also lost to Bournemouth and Leicester City at home, added 12 new players over the summer and spent the second half of last season displaying all the raw competitive zeal of a house brick.
These are changing times though and once again Bilic appears to have arrived at Upton Park at both the start and the end of something. The victories at Liverpool, Arsenal and City were brilliantly executed by a team set up to play at speed on the break. But they also chimed with the aspirational qualities of this mid-gentrification West Ham, a club facing perhaps the most profound change of gear in its professional history in the next few years.
On Thursday Bilic was able to play down the likelihood Andy Carroll would be fit to play much of a part against Norwich this weekend. "Andy can't be doing more in training," Bilic said "He is working so hard … but after seven months, these things take time." Carroll is of course still West Ham's record signing, as Bilic himself once was, having joined from Karlsruher in 1995 for £1.3m. If he is unlikely to be rushed back this is in part because Bilic currently has at his disposal four of West Ham's all-time most expensive signings.
This is not just the costliest squad in the club's history, but arguably one with even more depth than the last really upwardly mobile West Ham of the early Harry Redknapp years, when some energetic transfer activity, buttressed by Frank Lampard and Rio Ferdinand, led to a fifth-placed Premier League finish in 1999.
Bilic was long gone by then. Indeed there has been a degree of myth-making about his time at the club as a player, a spell of 18 months, 54 games and one runner-up spot to Julian Dicks as Hammer of the Year that has led to him being described now and then as "a club legend". And yet Bilic's time at West Ham was undeniably intriguing, an echo of the present perhaps with its rash of bolt-on overseas stars: Florin Raducioiu, Hugo Porfírio and the great Paulo Futre, who played nine games before abruptly retiring.
Bilic the player was popular as much for his obvious charisma and the fact he seemed to represent something progressive and forward-looking. As perhaps he does now as the club counts down to signing off on the Boleyn Ground and a leap into the long-lease unknown. The manager is still a very potent figure at a club that has only ever had 15 of them. If Bilic feels reassuringly West Ham, there is also something reassuringly personable about him, not to mention at times reassuringly chaotic.
If the meat-and-potatoes stability of the Sam Allardyce years offended the West Ham sensibilities, the onset of Bilicism has at the very least been eventful. So far the season has brought six red cards, one drawn match in 13, and 34 players used across three competitions. The positives through this have been obvious enough. Mark Noble is perfectly cast as West Ham captain. Winston Reid and James Tomkins have been rugged in defence. The new signings have largely been hits, most obviously Dimitri Payet, who plays a slightly different role but has already stirred memories of Carlos Tevez with his swagger and his upright, muscular creative style. "He is special," Bilic said this week. "This is why we signed him."
Of course, nobody realistically expects West Ham to keep this up without a hitch. The Bilic bounce is based to a degree on the fact their season started in early July, giving them a running start on the rest. Other teams will now be forewarned of that pacey, counterattacking style away from home, of Payet's influence, and of some possible weaknesses behind the first choice full-backs when West Ham attack in numbers at home. Plus of course Allardyce's team were also fourth at Christmas last year before packing up for summer five months early.
If this season feels different then this is, after all, a rare moment in the club's history. For now at least this Stratford-bound West Ham, with a ground to fill and a brand to sell, seem to have found a manager with just the right amount of homespun pizzazz.
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