Just wanted to wish everyone who reads this a very Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year
All the very best
PeterR
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Slaven Speaks - Aston Villa
WHUFC.com
Ahead of the Hammers' Boxing Day duel with Aston Villa, manager Slaven Bilic
faced the media. During the pre-match press conference the gaffer fielded a
range of questions from updates on Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini, a busy
Christmas schedule and Mark Noble's testimonial.
Good morning Slaven, will Andy Carroll be fit to play at Aston Villa?
SB: "We were off yesterday; we have training now and then training tomorrow,
then the game on Saturday. His injury is not like a big one. But that would
rule him out of the game against Villa. "There is a chance; the chance is
small, from all of these players who are out. With Andy there is a little
bit of a chance. We shouldn't forget that we have two games in two days.
That is a very tricky period. For him or for them, it's impossible if some
of them play at Villa, it would be a big risk or impossible to put them into
Southampton as well. It would be great to mix. Now it looks like Andy might
- might - be available for the game."
What about the other players you have out injured?
SB: "It is good news that Dimitri Payet is ahead of schedule. He should
train with us after Villa and is with the fitness coaches now. He might be
involved in the Liverpool game which would be a big boost for us. Lanzini is
progressing and will probably be available for the Southampton game. It
looks like it will be the same squad as against Swansea, but we should have
one or two back for Southampton."
What do you make of the Christmas schedule, are you a fan of the number of
games?
SB: "We will train on Christmas Day, in the afternoon, then we will travel
to Birmingham. It's as usual in England - that's the schedule. Every game is
difficult in the Premier League and Aston Villa are struggling, but they
played a good game against Newcastle last week. They are fighting for their
lives and will have confidence from that away point. I am not expecting
anything easier than Swansea. "As for the Christmas schedule, it's not ideal
with the injuries we have but it isn't something we can't control, so we
have to deal with it. It is the same for every team and the fans enjoy
also."
What is the situation James Collins? His contract is up this summer. Will
you talk to him about that?
SB: "Definitely. I will do that with him. He wasn't just good against
Swansea. I have said a number of times, he's a brilliant pro. He has been
from day one, whether he was on the bench or just training or playing for
five minutes coming or half an hour, or now 90 minutes, he's magnificent for
us."
Yesterday the Club announced that Mark Noble has been awarded a testimonial,
what are your thoughts on that?
SB: "I am very happy for Mark, of course. He deserves it for all his hard
work over the years, he's a great player, captain and role model. It's great
that Mark Noble is going to have a testimonial game. He deserves it and is a
Club legend, not many players get testimonials in modern football."
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Zarate - We are in a good way
WHUFC.com
Mauro Zarate says West Ham United are determined to spread some Christmas
cheer by scoring a Boxing Day victory at Aston Villa. The No10 has cut a
frustrated figure in recent matches when, despite his best efforts to break
the deadlock, the Hammers have been held to a record three goalless draws in
succession. The last of those came at Swansea on Sunday, when Zarate came
close twice to beating goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski, but was again forced to
make do with drawing a blank. Next up for the Argentinian and co is a Boxing
Day trip to Villa Park, where he hopes to take advantage of a meeting with
the Barclays Premier League's bottom club to pick up a welcome three points.
"At Swansea, the fans were great as they always are, but we have to win for
them," he told whufc.com. "We have a good match on Boxing Day at Aston Villa
where we will try to take the three points. "We have three tough matches but
we are in a good way and we feel like we are prepared to get the wins we
need. We want to get the victory at Villa and then we'll start thinking
about the next match."
Zarate has been in good form this season, scoring five goals, and is looking
forward to his first Christmas in English football. At his previous clubs in
Argentina, Italy and Qatar, the 28-year-old was given a break over the
festive period, but it is a different story in this country. On top of the
football, the South American has also fulfilled a host of other commitments
during a busy December, including recent visits to Newham General Hospital
and the Club's Lakeside Thurrock Store with his teammates. While scoring
goals is his No1 target, Zarate is a father himself and acutely aware of the
responsibility of footballers to make youngsters' dreams come true at
Christmas time. "It was great to be there with the fans," he revealed. "Me
and the boys signed lots of pictures, so it was a great day. It's a good
moment for us at Christmas, and of course for the fans too."
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Noble granted Testimonial
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Mark Noble has been awarded a
Testimonial match by the Board. The long-serving Club captain will be
honoured with a match between the current West Ham United first team and a
West Ham United All-Stars squad, with all funds raised being donated to
charity. The fixture, which will take place at the Boleyn Ground on Easter
Monday 28 March 2016 at 2pm, will give Hammers of all ages a final
opportunity to see many of their heroes in action at the Club's historic
home. Noble, who joined West Ham as a 13-year-old schoolboy and is now
approaching 350 first-team appearances in Claret and Blue, cannot wait for a
special occasion, which will form part of his overall activities for his
testimonial year.
"I am hugely honoured and grateful that the Board have awarded me a
Testimonial match at the Boleyn Ground," said the popular No16, who was born
and raised in nearby Canning Town. "This is where I come from and this is my
Football Club, so I can think of nothing better than having my Testimonial
at the stadium where I have laughed, cheered and cried, both as a fan and as
a player. "Everyone knows how much West Ham United means to me, so to have
the opportunity to share a pitch with the players who I have grown up with
will be fantastic - and it will be even more special to have my family,
friends and so many Hammers fans watching from the stands. "I am pleased and
proud to say we will be donating all the proceeds from my Testimonial match
to three charities that mean a huge amount to me - Richard House Children's
Hospice, Help for Heroes and the DT38 Foundation."
In granting Noble a Testimonial match, Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold paid tribute to a player and a man they have huge respect and
affection for. "Mark is the modern-day 'Mr West Ham', so it was natural that
he would be granted a Testimonial at the end of what will be his 12th season
as a member of the first-team squad," said the Joint-Chairmen. "Mark has
been a tremendous servant to West Ham United both on the field and off it
and this Testimonial match is recognition of the long and dignified career
he has enjoyed in a Claret and Blue shirt.
"It is a mark of the man that he will donate all the proceeds from this
match to three charities that mean so much to him and to everyone at the
Club. "The match has been scheduled for the afternoon of Easter Monday,
meaning fans of all ages can come along to the Boleyn Ground and see some of
their heroes in action one last time. We are sure Mark and his Testimonial
Committee will ensure it is a truly ?memorable event?."
Further details will be released as the date for the Mark Noble Testimonial
Match approaches, including ticketing and corporate hospitality
arrangements, on whufc.com and across the Club's social media channels.
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Mark Noble - Mr West Ham
WHUFC.com
A look back at Testimonial awardee Mark Noble's 15 memorable years in Claret
and Blue...
2003 - Becomes the youngest player to appear for West Ham United's reserve
team in February, before signing on as a full-time trainee in summer of the
same year.
2004 - Makes his first-team debut in the 2-0 home League Cup second-round
win over Southend United on 24 August.
2005 - Appeared as a substitute in the Championship Play-Off final victory
over Preston North End. Named Young Hammer of the Year before making his
Premier League debut by starting the 3-1 opening-day home victory over
Blackburn Rovers on 13 August.
2007 - Scored his maiden first-team goal in a 4-3 Premier League defeat by
Tottenham Hotspur at the Boleyn Ground. Inspired the Hammers to a 'Great
Escape' from relegation alongside Carlos Tevez, Bobby Zamora and others,
before signing a new long-term contract.
2009 - Now an established first-team regular under Gianfranco Zola, Noble
made his 100th West Ham appearance at Blackburn Rovers in March and was
later rewarded with a new long-term deal until 2013.
2011 - Helped West Ham to reach the League Cup semi-finals, but also
suffered the disappointment of relegation to the Championship. Named
vice-captain by new manager Sam Allardyce.
2012 - Voted Hammer of the Year for the first time. Missed just one of 49
Championship and Play-Off fixtures as West Ham bounced back at the first
attempt, defeating Blackpool in the Championship Play-Off final at Wembley.
Signed another new long-term contract in the summer.
2014 - Voted Hammer of the Year for a second time, and also named Players'
Player of the Year by his fellow squad members.
2015 - Became the Hammers' all-time leading Premier League appearance maker.
Named Club captain by new manager Slaven Bilic. Scored as West Ham United
won at Liverpool for the first time in 52 years.
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Stat's a Fact - Courageous Collins
WHUFC.com
You don't need to be Albert Einstein to work out that James Collins put in
an influential defensive performance in Sunday's goalless Barclays Premier
League draw at Swansea City.
The Wales international was at his best on home soil, making a team-high 13
clearances - the next highest was seven by centre-half partner Angelo
Ogbonna - and blocking four shots - the same number as his Italian teammate,
and making three interceptions. The 32-year-old threw his body in front of
everything the Swans could throw at him at the Liberty Stadium, ending
proceedings with an egg-shaped bump on the back of his head. That injury
came after Collins had made yet another courageous block to prevent Ki's
shot from troubling Adrian, when the South Korean then accidentally fell
into the No19 and his knee crashed into his head. While he was a defensive
rock, Collins also influenced the game at the attacking end too, having a
team-high three efforts on Swansea's goal. Collins' display in South Wales
typified his statistical strengths, namely blocking the ball and clearing
the ball out of defence often. Only Winston Reid (7.3) averages more
clearances per game than Collins (6.1), while the two defenders each average
a team-high 1.3 blocks for every 90 minutes they play. As such, the
shaven-headed defender's display at the Liberty Stadium should have come as
no surprise to anyone of a Claret and Blue persuasion. Collins was simply
doing what he does best - keeping the ball out of his team's net by any
means possible!
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From the Terraces - Joe Difford
WHUFC.com
Fan blogger Joe Difford looks at Sunday's draw with Swansea...
Sunday afternoon's game between Swansea and West Ham was a rather bizarre
one. Two sides who have been known to play some wonderful football in recent
times, but are both going through a tough spell of form, drew 0-0, despite a
total of 32 shots between them. News of Andy Carroll's injury and subsequent
absence from the game was a bad start, with so many key players already out,
Nikica Jelavic was drafted in upfront. He had a couple of chances but it
wasn't his day in front of goal. He was denied near the end and but for some
great defending he could have scored the winner. Swansea dominated the first
half, and were unlucky to go in at the break without a goal, as Ki
Sung-yueng and Andre Ayew missed good chances. The home side had lost five
of their last six games, but we were slow to start, giving them confidence
and a new-found belief, which nearly resulted in a few goals. They were at
it after the break too, with Jack Cork seeing his impressive volley saved
well by Adrian before penalty appeals were waved away after the ball hit
James Collins' arm, but the defender was not at fault. Collins put on his
best performance of the season, and was a joy to watch, throwing his body in
the way of anything and everything to secure a clean sheet. The Welshman at
times is unfairly criticised but he was faultless on Sunday, and deserves a
medal for some of the painful blocks he made, but man of the match will have
to do for now. Despite eleven shots on goal, only two made their way on
target, both being long-range efforts from Mauro Zarate and Enner Valencia.
Eighth place isn't a bad place to be right now, especially when you consider
the somewhat ridiculous injury crisis we are suffering right now. With so
many key men out, form is always likely to suffer, as the eleven men each
week are eleven men who have never played together before, so it will take
time to gel. Form is temporary, class is permanent, as they say, and it
won't be long before we're back to winning ways, but hopefully the fact that
we're now winless in seven will spur the boys in claret and blue on.
Sunday's game made it three successive 0-0 draws in a row, something we have
never done before in our history, and it is hard to believe when you look at
our shot counts for these games. You don't want to blame bad form on luck,
but it certainly is playing a part in recent weeks, and it can't last
forever. We travel to bottom-of-the-table Aston Villa , who are now ten
points from safety on Boxing Day, so Bilic and Co. need to take the
opportunity to try and get back to winning ways and get a positive result.
This period of injuries was always going to be a tough one, and three 0-0
draws on the trot isn't great, but every point counts and in such an
unpredictable and tight season, who knows how important Sunday's point will
turn out to be. For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation
visit www.90min.com
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Antonio - I'm due a goal
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio believes his first West Ham United goal is just around the
corner as Slaven Bilic's men prepare for a Boxing Day trip to Villa Park.
The former Nottingham Forest winger looks set for a third successive
Barclays Premier League start on Saturday and hopes it won't be long before
he and the Hammers get back on the goal trail. Though Remi Garde's Villa
will be propping up the table on Christmas Day, the 25-year-old is still
expecting a stern examination and insists it would be foolish to think
otherwise. "We approach the game on Boxing Day the same way we do every
game, we set out to get the three points," he told West Ham TV. "You can see
that Villa are struggling, though they played quite well last time out
against Newcastle."They were quite attacking, fearless, but this time we've
got to go out and try to get the three points, because we've drawn three
games in a row now. "As long as we get the three points on Saturday, we can
start kicking on with our season. "It doesn't matter that they're bottom of
the league, it's the Premier League and they're in the Premier League.
"They've definitely got something about them so we're not going to there and
underestimate anyone.
We're going to go there and be prepared for whatever comes at us. We're
preparing right, we've got our mind right and we're going to go there to get
three points."
And safe in the knowledge that the Hammers are defensively sound, Antonio
now wants the Hammers to turn their attention to the attacking third,
starting at Villa Park. He continued: "The last three games were 0-0 and now
we've got to stick one in the back of the net! We've shown that we can keep
clean sheets, so if we do score, we'll probably get the three points. We've
got to push on and make sure that we do that. "I've always believed in my
ability and in the last couple of games I think I've done alright. I've not
really done much going forward just yet, but give me time and I'll show you
what I can do. "I'm not really the sort of person to go through quite a few
games without getting a goal, so I should be due one soon!"
Speaking at Wednesday's Romford Store signing, the summer recruit felt the
Hammers had plenty to be proud of in scrapping to a goalless draw at the
Liberty Stadium on Sunday, even if it came at a personal cost! "I got a few
blows to the face, I've got a massive hole in my tongue, but it's just one
of those things, part and parcel of the game," he explained. "It's one of
the things that I enjoy, I love the hustle and bustle of the Premier League,
I like the challenge and we've got to keep pushing forward. "It was a great
point in the end. We were up against a Swansea side that had just lost their
manager and it felt like they had nothing to lose. They played some great
football, one touch, two touch, had a couple of opportunities and a few half
chances, as did we. I think a draw, in the end, was the right result. "We've
got to think about Aston Villa now and try to get the right result."
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Andy Carroll likely to stay at West Ham - Slaven Bilic
BBc.co.uk
Striker Andy Carroll is a "big asset" for West Ham and is unlikely to be
sold during the January transfer window, says manager Slaven Bilic. Carroll
has made 10 league appearances for the Hammers this season but has only
scored once and is currently sidelined with a thigh injury. But Bilic said:
"I don't think [he will be sold]. We need players. We need him fit and we
need him back. "He's a big weapon for us and he fits into my attacking
plans." Carroll, 26, is in contention to return to the side for the Boxing
Day game with Aston Villa. Meanwhile, Bilic says he intends to speak to
defender James Collins, who is out of contract at the end of the season,
about a new deal.
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Dimitri Payet: West Ham midfielder might be fit for Liverpool
BBC.co.uk
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet could make his first-team return against
Liverpool on 2 January, according to manager Slaven Bilic. The summer
signing, 28, impressed with his early displays and scored five goals before
sustaining an ankle injury in November which was expected to keep him out
until February. He's ahead of schedule," Bilic said. Payet is training with
the fitness coaches and he might be involved in the Liverpool game, which is
a big boost." Bilic added: "His ankle is very good - it is stable - so it
is great news if it goes like this."
France international Payet signed for £10.7m from Marseille in June.
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We'll take a lucky win, admits Garde
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Aston Villa boss Remi Garde says he doesn't care how his team play this
weekend - as long as they produce a winning performance. With his Villa side
bereft of confidence having collected just seven points from their opening
17 Premier League games, Garde has set the squad a target of ten more wins
to stand a chance of avoiding relegation for the first time since the late
1980s. And the 49-year-old, who is still seeking his first win since
succeeding Tim Sherwood at the beginning of November hopes that sequence
begins on Boxing Day against West Ham - even if the manner in which it is
achieved is considered secondary. "I prefer to win playing well, of course.
This is how I see football," Garde told the media this morning. "But
sometimes in this situation, a bad or lucky win will be a very good gift for
us.
"Confidence for playing good football is absolutely vital. At the moment
we're low in confidence. It is normal because when you don't win games
you're not confident. "I'm sure with the quality of the team, the points we
have picked up doesn't reflect the quality of the players. Of course quality
is not enough - you have to work hard and have to put your quality for the
team. It's not an individual sport; sometimes you have to behave to have the
right attitude."
Garde also called upon the Villa fans to get behind their team - especially
if West Ham start the brighter of the two teams. "I totally understand our
fans' frustration because we are bottom of the league and we don't win
games," he added. "But without this support it's more difficult for the
players, the club and all the team. "During the game you never know - even
if you are one goal down, maybe you can score two at the end of the game
before the final whistle. We need to be altogether - the fans, the players -
because the situation requires that. You cannot afford to behave
differently."
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Sincs set for coaching role
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Trevor Sinclair is set for a return to English football - as coach of
National League North outfit AFC Fylde.
'Tricky' Trev was a hugely popular figure during his five-year spell at West
Ham at the turn of the century and was one of the last English players to
represent the club at the World Cup Finals, back in 2002.
As recently revealed on the KUMB Podcast, the 42-year-old former winger has
been spending much of his time in recent years in the Middle East. However
he is now poised to return to the UK as manager of Fylde (previously known
as Kirkham & Wesham FC).
Sinclair, whose career also took in spells at QPR and Manchester City has
held discussions with the club regarding a permanent post. Chairman David
Haythornthwaite, speaking via the club's website said: "We have been in
discussions with Trevor for some time.
"He is a local lad and he has great affection for the club and the area and
is well known to the Blackpool fans for his time there. When the chance
arose to get Trevor involved, we were keen to pursue it. The manager met
with Trevor to discuss the opportunity and discussions are ongoing.
"We are hopeful of a positive outcome in the not too distant future."
Meanwhile Sinclair, responding to the news said: "There is a very exciting
situation developing. AFC Fylde are a fantastically ambitious club and I too
am equally as ambitious as a coach as I was a player.
"If a deal is done then I feel I could have a positive impact at the club
going forward. I have been following the club for a few years now and the
opportunity would suit me down to the ground."
Sinclair made a total of 205 appearances - only three of which were as a
substitute - for West Ham United between 1998 and 2003, scoring 38 goals. He
also represented England on 12 occasions, including the famous 1-0 win over
Argentina at the 2002 World Cup Finals.
Last year he became assistant manager of Lancaster City and made one
appearance - at the age of 41 - for the team as a second half substitute in
a 3-1 defeat at Clitheroe.
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The West Ham way: the kids are alright
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd December 2015
By: Staff Writer #3
These are undeniably exciting times to be a West Ham United fan, with the
move to the Olympic Stadium providing the club with the superb opportunity
to potentially challenge for the major honours on a regular basis.
Expectations are now such that some seem to be advocating a Viv Nicholson
"spend, spend, spend" policy in the transfer market. Compiling player
wish-lists is all well and good, but there is a tendency to forget both FFP
restrictions and the youngsters already on the books.
The Academy and developing our own players is a significant part of the
club's identity and whatever the financial benefits of the stadium move and
the vast hike in TV money from next summer, it should remain so. It's a case
of striking the right balance between big name recruitment and continuing to
provide first-team opportunities for academy prospects.
The club has been keen to stress that, having overspent in the summer, the
January transfer window will be one spent largely watching from the
sidelines. With the exception of securing a permanent deal for Manuel
Lanzini, significant business would seem unlikely. The current squad already
has greater depth than for many a year and, with clubs understandably
reluctant to do business mid-season, it's widely acknowledged that the
January isn't an ideal time to be recruiting.
It's not as if there's a desperate need to go on a spending spree either.
You would have to be a fully paid-up member of the BFS fan club not to
acknowledge that there has been a significant upturn in the quality of
football on show this term. Much of that comes down to having a manager who
understands that there is some moral obligation to entertain the paying
public but, in fairness to Allardyce, the performances, if not the results
of late, are also testament to the benefits of the greater strength in depth
of this season's squad.
That's not to say that the cheque book should necessarily be put under lock
and key, but that the squad situation is such that we can afford to wait
until the calmer waters of the summer transfer window and, where possible,
put our faith in the youth to step-up until then if required.
So what positions currently provide cause for concern? Well I suppose the
most obvious one is right-back, where Slaven has clearly lost faith
(probably only temporarily) in Carl Jenkinson following some poor
performances earlier this season. With James Tomkins now filling-in, there
are calls from some quarters for a replacement to be brought in. Is it
really that pressing a need that it can't wait until the summer?
By my reckoning, in addition to Tomkins and Jenkinson, there are a number of
other candidates that could first be considered. Reece Burke's loan deal
with Bradford City is set to end on 2nd January and, although primarily a
centre-back, he is capable of filling in at right-back if required.
There are other youngsters in the frame too, in Kyle Knoyle, Leo Chambers
(recently returned after a lengthy injury absence) and Alex Pike. There's
also Joey O'Brien, although given the fact that he hasn't featured at all
since recovering from injury, it would strongly suggest that he will be out
the door next month.
Even so, between them, Tomkins, Jenkinson and the youngsters should
certainly see us through until the end of the current campaign, at which
point a decision can be made as to a long-term solution.
There has also been talk of cover being required at left-back, although with
summer recruit Stephen Hendrie and Lewis Page on the books, would it really
be sensible to thwart their progress and opportunities? If required, Angelo
Ogbonna could also switch to left-back from the centre (with Reece Oxford
potentially getting an opportunity at the back). Were we still in Europa
League and Capital One Cup contention there might be a valid argument for a
back-up now, but there's already sufficient cover under the circumstances.
The other main area of concern is among the forwards. We certainly don't
want for numbers, but there are valid question marks over the fitness, form
and suitability of those available. You certainly wouldn't put money on Andy
Carroll, Enner Valencia or Nikica Jelavic being at the club at the start of
next season, but signing quality strikers in January is often a notoriously
complicated and expensive business. Unless Slaven has someone already lined
up, it's difficult to envisage much movement in or out until the summer.
There doesn't appear to be any imminent sign of a young striker coming
through the ranks at present. Elliot Lee is currently on loan at Blackpool
until early January, but is now 21-years-old and out of contract in the
summer. It's now make or break for Lee as far as West Ham are concerned. At
least give him an occasional place on the bench over the latter half of the
campaign to see if he warrants a new deal.
The midfield is already well-stocked, so it would be something of a surprise
were there to be any moves on that front next month (Lanzini aside) unless
there is an opportunity for Slaven to bring in a long-term target ahead of
schedule.
Despite the competition for places, Josh Cullen has had a taste of Europa
League football and even a few seconds of Premier League action. Martin
Samuelsen, currently on a one-month loan at Peterborough United, is another
who might get the occasional opportunity to add to his own European
experience over the coming months. There is also Diego Poyet to return from
Milton Keynes Dons for next season.
Let's not go down the road of that lot across town who've just given the
boot to the P45 One by overlooking our youngsters or just farming them out
on loan. West Ham is better than that. Have some faith in the kids.
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Bilic orders players to train on Christmas Day
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic says he'd prefer to spend Christmas at home with his family -
but will be with his squad instead, as they prepare for the Boxing Day trip
to Birmingham. Bilic's side face Aston Villa in the traditional Boxing Day
round of fixtures this year and the manager has revealed that the travelling
party will spend the latter half of Christmas Day together. "We're going to
train on Christmas Day as we have to do something the day before the game,"
he said. "Normally we train in the morning but as it's Christmas Day we're
going to train at four o'clock and after that, we're going to drive to
Birmingham and play the next day. "Like all people we'd like to be with our
families for the Christmas period, or for New Year's Eve, but it's great for
the fans and it's great for football and we're looking forward to it. This
is normal in England and that's the schedule. It's the same for every team."
The manager also revealed that he expects his side to face a stern test at
Villa Park - despite the hosts, currently five points adrift at the bottom
of the table having failed to win a single Premier league fixture since the
opening day of the season at Bournemouth. "Every game is difficult and Aston
Villa are struggling," he said. "They're bottom of the table and they need
to start picking up points if they want to stay up. But I've seen a few of
their games and they had a really good game against Newcastle, especially
after they equalised. For 20 minutes they were the better team. "I've seen
the energy, I've seen the quality and they are fighting for their lives.
They have confidence now, having taken a point from an away game, and now
they are playing at home and looking forward to the game. Make no mistake,
I'm not expecting anything easier than Swansea, Stoke or Man United. "They
have some quality players that can harm you and as I said, I've seen a lot
of positives about their game - especially against Newcastle."
In terms of personnel, there are unlikely to be any changes from the squad
that travelled to South Wales last weekend for the goalless draw with
Swansea. "It looks as if we'll have the same squad now," added Bilic. "We
could hopefully have one or two back for the Southampton game. There's a
slight chance that Andy Carroll's going to be back for Villa, but we're not
sure so it might be the same."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet way ahead of schedule, says Bilic
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic has given West Ham United fans an early Christmas present - by
confirming that Dimitri Payet is expected to return to the first team a
month ahead of schedule. Payet was sidelined by an horrific challenge from
Everton's James McCarthy in the 1-1 draw at the Boleyn Ground at the
beginning of October, after which it was revealed that he was expected to be
out of action until February next year. However Bilic revealed during his
pre-match press conference this morning that the 28-year-old creative
midfielder's rehabilitation was well ahead of schedule. "It is good news
with Dimitri as he is ahead of schedule, so he should train with us after
the Villa game or the Southampton game," he said. "He is training with the
fitness coaches and he might be involved in the Liverpool game which is a
big boost. "At the beginning we thought he would be back in February but he
is way ahead of schedule and it is not that bad. His ankle is very good - it
is stable - so it is great news if it goes like this."
West Ham face Aston Villa on Boxing Day before completing their Christmas
programme with two home games against Southampton and Liverpool.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimitri Payet could return for West Ham against Liverpool
By Matthew Treadwell
Last Updated: 23/12/15 12:36pm
SSN
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet could return for the home game with
Liverpool on January 2, manager Slaven Bilic has confirmed. The France
international played a key role in the club's impressive start to the
season, scoring five goals in 12 Premier League matches before injuring his
ankle in the 1-1 draw with Everton on November 7. Payet was expected to be
ruled out for around three months but now looks likely to be back in action
earlier than expected. That would offer a welcome boost to Bilic, whose side
have not won in the five matches Payet has missed, drawing their last three
matches 0-0 in the process. "It is good news that Dimitri Payet is ahead of
schedule. He should train with us after Villa and is with the fitness
coaches now," Bilic said ahead of their Boxing Day game with bottom club
Aston Villa. "He might be involved in the Liverpool game, which would be a
big boost. "At the beginning we thought he would be back in February but he
is way ahead of schedule and it is not that bad. "His ankle is very good -
it is stable - so it is great news if it goes like this."
Argentine midfielder Manuel Lanzini is also expected to return to action
over the Christmas period, after he injured his thigh in training ahead of
the goalless draw with Manchester United.
"Manuel Lanzini is progressing and will probably be available for the
Southampton game [on December 28]," he added. "It looks like it will be the
same squad as against Swansea for Villa, but we should have one or two back
for Southampton."
As for Boxing Day opponents Villa, Bilic insists they should not be taken
lightly, despite their perilous position in the league table. "I saw their
last few games and against Newcastle they had a really good game, especially
after they equalised," said Bilic of Villa's 1-1 draw at St James' Park.
"For 20 minutes they were much better and I have seen the energy, seen their
quality and they are fighting for their lives. "But they have confidence now
because they have one point from an away game. They are at home against us
and they look forward to that game. "So, make no mistake I am not expecting
anything easier than against Swansea, Stoke or Manchester United. They have
some quality players who can harm you."
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Security measures at Villa Park
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Aston Villa have asked all West Ham fans to turn up at Villa Park on Boxing
day at least 30 minutes before the 3pm kick off because of continuing
security awareness following the November Paris attacks. The Hammers have an
allocation of 3,000 tickets costing £41 for adults, £19 for under 18's and
£12 for the under 8's.
Aston Villa have released a statement saying: "We are continuing to operate
with an increased level of security for our forthcoming home games,
including our Boxing Day encounter with West Ham. Therefore, we would ask
all fans to arrive at Villa Park no later than 30 minutes before kick-off
(2.30pm).
To help with security measures, we would also request fans to approach the
turnstiles with coats and jackets unfastened and open. Please be aware that
we are unable to store large bags and suitcases and these items will not be
allowed into the stadium.Also, to assist in keeping the stadium as secure as
possible, the smoking area at the top of the external Holte End stairs will
not be in operation at half-time until further notice. Thank you for your
co-operation."
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Lanzini back for Saints and Payet back for Liverpool
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic held his pre match press conference this morning "It is good
news that Dimtri Payet is ahead of schedule. He should train with us after
Villa and is with the fitness coaches now. He might be involved in the
Liverpool game which would be a big boost for us. Lanzini is progressing and
will probably be available for the Southampton game. It looks like it will
be the same squad as v Swansea for Villa, but we should have one or two back
for Southampton. "We will train on Christmas Day, in the afternoon, then we
will travel to Birmingham. It's as usual in England - that's the schedule.
Every game is difficult in the Premier League and Aston Villa are
struggling, but they played a good game against Newcastle last week. "They
are fighting for their lives and will have confidence from that away point.
I am not expecting anything easier than Swansea, Stoke or Man Utd. They have
some quality players who can hurt you.
"It's great that Mark Noble is going to have a testimonial game. He deserves
it and is a Club legend."
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Payet back in training today
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Dimtri Payet returned to training today with Hammers fitness coaches. West
Ham posted pictures of him back in training on their official facebook page
and twitter account. Slaven Bilic has confirmed he will fully return to full
training with the first team after the Boxing day match against Aston Villa.
Payet was injured in a horror tackle by Everton's James McCarthy on 7th
November which left him crocked. Initially it was thought that Payet would
require surgery and would be out for three months or more.
He later found out he did not need surgery on the ankle injury which has
allowed a far quicker recovery period. the Hammers have not won a game since
losing Payet on 7th November. Our last win coming in October when we beat
15th place Chelsea. Despite being missing since November it remains one of
the leading Premier League midfielders with 5 goals, 46 chances created and
three assists. Payet has completed 400 passes this season with a pass
accuracy of 82%, of which 61% were forward passes.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payet returns to fold but Jelavic worry goes on
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
First the good news: Dimitri Payet will be training with the first team
squad after Boxing Day's match against Aston Villa.
Now the bad: Nikicia Jelavic could easily lead the line on Boxing Day if
nether Andy Carroll - over whom there is a question mark - or Enner Valencia
is trusted from the start.
And it appears too that despite the bright forecasts for this weekend Manu
Lanzini won't be available unless Slav is involving himself in a cute
guessing game. He said: "It is good news that Dimitri Payet is ahead of
schedule. He should train with us after Villa and is with the fitness
coaches now. "He might be involved in the Liverpool game which would be a
big boost for us. Lanzini is progressing and will probably be available for
the Southampton game. It looks like it will be the same squad as against
Swansea, but we should have one or two back for Southampton."
That of course means that in the meantime we are lumbered with the
ineffective Jelavic who has taken an all round hammering from pundits and
public alike. However, with Enner fit we can only hope that - should Andy
Carroll not make it - the manager will decide to give the Ecuadorian striker
a line leading role as it's impossible to see the Croat performing in any
way effectively even against a lacklustre Villa.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers decide on Italian striker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Simone Zaza will not be joining West Ham on loan in January as striker
cover. The Juventus front man has been regularly linked with the Irons since
the summer and, with the injury problems at the club, again this month. The
24 year old is valued at around £10 million and - unable to hold down a
regular place at the Serie A club - was seen by many as a shoe in at Upton
Park this winter given Diafra Sakho's injury and Andy Carroll's latest
problem. But ClaretandHugh was told this morning it won't happen as with
players returning to fitness Slaven Bilic is disinterested in adding to the
quartet of hit men available to him. We were told: "The club has gone down
that route previously, bringing in expensive loan fee players and seeing
them sit on the sidelines. We have players on the way back - there's no
panic "Our injury problems are improving day on day and we won't be adding
to the squad this winter unless it is absolutely necessary and it doesn't
look that way at the moment."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slav set for Collins talks
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 23, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Slaven Bilic has gone on the record to announce that he will be talking to
James Collins about a new deal. As ClaretandHugh reported 24 hours ago
(Tues) the manager is ready to talk turkey with the central defender which
could see the 32 year stay at the club. We reported that it was the big
topic of conversation inside the club and that the manager was edging
towards offer Ginge a one or two year contract. Now Slav has revealed at
www.whufc.com that is precisely his agenda adding that he "definitely" wants
to talk with him thus seemingly slamming the door shut on any hopes Sam
Allardyce may have had of grabbing the player in this January's transfer
window. He said: ""Definitely. I will do that with him. He wasn't just good
against Swansea. I have said a number of times, he's a brilliant pro. "He
has been from day one, whether he was on the bench or just training or
playing for five minutes coming or half an hour, or now 90 minutes, he's
magnificent for us."
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Tore the truth, O'Brien to leave plus massive Payet boost
December 22, 2015
Thewesthamway.co.uk
ExWHUEmployee
So the window is upon us and here come the rumours many of which are used to
generate web traffic and hits etc. as I have said all windows. The bottom
line is transfer news gets the most attention by a long way, there is no way
to hide it and of course I have first-hand experience of this. I urge
people to take rumours with a pinch of salt because many times they have no
substance. At the West Ham Way we run a daily news feature that covers all
the news that is being reported elsewhere. Every single day there appears
to be another player linked most of which are quite baffling.
The latest rumour is that Tore a highly rated winger from Slaven Bilic's ex
club is set to join for £11m.
There is no denying that he is a player that is on our radar and has been
for a long time. West Ham scouts have attended many of their matches
recently, as like Marseille last year, there are a number of players that we
are keeping tabs on. One of which is the Midfielder/right back Hutchinson
and the other is Serdar Kurtuluş another right back. Tore holds a German
passport and is therefore very desirable. He comes with a number of
admirers from abroad and therefore his price is around £11m.
The situation with the budget is that there is no money to spend on new
players unless we sell. There has been talk of Joey O'Brien moving on this
window but that will not raise much. Originally it was thought that Collins
may go to Sunderland too but Bilic has been very impressed with his
attitude, inspirational qualities and of course his defending in recent
months so a new one year deal could be on the table. The other possible
deal is Matt Jarvis being made permanent at Norwich but this is likely to be
for no more than £3m quite a long way short of the £11m required. There is
currently no other players who are likely to move on.
Tore is likely to be very high up on the radar for our summer signings of
which we will make a number of marque signings to take us into the new
stadium. Part of the transfer rumour hype was also started by The West Ham
Way writer Jack Sullivan announcing himself as a "happy hammer" the night
before. We caught up with Jack and he described his tweet as "I was just
happy". Of course the news that Lanzini is back for the Villa game may have
helped his mood. The following news would have made him delighted. Payet is
well on track to make an early return. Some are saying he is targeting
Liverpool and there is an outside chance he will make it. The more realistic
date is either Wolves in the cup or the Bournemouth away game. The way he
keeps improving let's hope it is Liverpool that he makes.
Please do not get caught up in people using transfers to get hits/attention
with myself and Jack Sullivan on board we will try to bring the most
accurate transfer picture that we can.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham hold talks with PSG goalkeeper Nicolas Douchez
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Nicolas Douchez has reportedly held initial
talks with West Ham over a January move The 35-year-old is currently third
choice at the French club and is looking to secure a move to the Premier
League for a career swansong. According to L'Equipe, Douchez visited a
London club recently, which is understood to have been West Ham. The Hammers
are on the lookout for an experienced alternative to current No 1 Adrian and
Douchez could be an ideal candidate to provide support for the Spaniard.
However, West Ham are wary of the fact that Douchez has only played 10
league games for PSG since he signed for them from Rennes back in July 2011
and have yet to make a decision over whether to make a bid.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic says Dimitri Payet could return against Liverpool as West Ham
United boss looks ahead to Aston Villa clash
GUardian.co.uk
West Ham United have been handed an injury boost after Slaven Bilic revealed
Dimitri Payet is set to make his first-team return against Liverpool on
January 2. Payet, who scored five goals in his impressive start to life in
the Premier League, was expected to be out until February after he sustained
an ankle injury following a tackle by James McCarthy in West Ham's 1-1 draw
at Everton last month. But Bilic, speaking ahead of his side's Boxing Day
clash against Aston Villa, says the France international will return to
training in the coming days, and could feature when Liverpool travel to
Upton Park in the new year. "It is good news with Dimitri as he is ahead of
schedule, so he should train with us after the Villa game or the Southampton
game," Bilic said. "He is training with the fitness coaches and he might be
involved in the Liverpool game which is a big boost. "At the beginning we
thought he would be back in February but he is way ahead of schedule and it
is not that bad. His ankle is very good - it is stable - so it is great news
if it goes like this."
West Ham have drawn a blank in their last three outings and last tasted
victory in their 2-1 defeat of Chelsea on October 24. Their trip to Villa,
who have accumulated only seven points this season, would appear to resemble
a good opportunity for Bilic's side to get their campaign back on track. But
the former Croatia manager is not taking anything for granted. "I saw their
last few games and against Newcastle they had a really good game, especially
after they equalised," said Bilic of Villa's 1-1 draw at St James' Park.
"For 20 minutes they were much better and I have seen the energy, seen their
quality and they are fighting for their lives. "But they have confidence now
because they have one point from an away game. They are at home against us
and they look forward to that game. "So, make no mistake I am not expecting
anything easier than against Swansea, Stoke or Manchester United. They have
some quality players who can harm you."
West Ham's trip to Villa could come too soon for playmaker Manuel Lanzini,
who has been sidelined for one month with a thigh injury, but striker Andy
Carroll could be available.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, December 24
Tuesday, December 22
Daily WHUFC News - 22nd December 2015
From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com
It was a familiar story for us on Sunday as we drew for the third game in
succession. Although goals have been harder to come by since we've been hit
so hard by injuries, we have tightened up significantly at the other end and
managed to claim results against Manchester United, Stoke City and now
Swansea City. It might not have been the three points we really wanted – but
the team do deserve credit for the way they have dug in after being faced
with adversity in recent weeks. Yes, we have struggled to score, but any
team would after being shorn of four top attacking players, and three of
their top four goalscorers. Without Dimitri Payet, Diafra Sakho, Manuel
Lanzini, Victor Moses and Andy Carroll it's no surprise that the goals have
not been as free-flowing as at the start of the season. With the lack of
goals, it is important that the defenders have stepped up to the plate and
once again I have to say that Adrian was magnificent at Swansea. He is
having a fine season, and has really established himself as one of the top
goalkeepers in the league in the three seasons he has been here. Equally
impressive on Sunday was James Collins, who gave a real lion-hearted display
to help us hold on to our clean sheet and ultimately make our point. James
has had to be patient this season as we now have four top quality centre
halves at the Club, but he has taken his chance with our recent clean sheets
and he was a big part of the result on Sunday. An away point is a positive,
and there are more positives to take as the manager has made clear that we
expect some of the injured players back sooner rather than later.
We could be looking at having Lanzini back for Aston Villa or Southampton
and Payet for Liverpool, so although we have lacked a cutting edge recently
the cavalry will be arriving soon! It has been a hugely encouraging first
half of this season, and as Christmas and the New Year approaches, we can
look forward to 2016 with great optimism as we welcome those key players
back.
I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and look forward to
seeing you at Aston Villa.
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Hammers fans enjoy festive treat
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans were given a festive treat on Monday as Mauro Zarate,
Pedro Obiang and Enner Valenica headed to the intu Lakeside Thurrock centre
for a player signing session. The trio were on hand at the Hammers store to
pose for photographs and sign autographs for hundreds of fans who combined
their last-minute Christmas shopping with the chance to meet their heroes.
Less than 24 hours after securing a point at Swansea City, the first teamers
were appreciative of the support shown to them both at the Liberty Stadium
and at Lakeside.
Zarate said: "It was great to meet the fans on Monday. They've seen us for
pictures and for us to sign autographs for them so it's been a great day.
"Especially at Christmas it's a good moment for us and for all the fans
here. "Their support was great at Swansea on Sunday, like always, and now we
have to win at Aston Villa for them."
Supporter Steve from Colchester, who took his son Jake, 8, to the event was
thrilled to meet the trio. He said: "It was great today. Jake really wanted
to see Mauro Zarate as he is his favourite player. "We've been really
impressed with how we've performed this season. We've been going a lot and
hopefully will get a season ticket for next year. Jake added: "I love Mauro
because he can really lift the ball into the goal and he has scored some
really good goals this season."
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James Collins: Wales defender wants regular West Ham spot
BBC.co.uk
Defender James Collins hopes to earn a new deal with West Ham to help secure
his place in Wales' Euro 2016 squad. The 32-year-old has played in only
seven league games so far this season and his contract expires in the
summer. Collins started in Sunday's 0-0 draw at Swansea and says he needs to
be playing regularly if he is to be involved with Wales in France. "I need
to concentrate on my club form and playing well for West Ham," Collins said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Keen lands new management role
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former West Ham midfielder Kevin Keen has been appointed as the new manager
of League One side Colchester United. Keen - who took temporary charge of
West Ham following the departure of Alan Pardew in December 2006, the first
of three stints in that particular role - was named the new manager of the
struggling Essex club earlier this afternoon. Now 48, Keen spent a decade as
a Hammer between 1983 and 1993 making 278 appearances for the club in all
competitions, before moving into coaching. At West Ham he worked alongside
the likes of Pardew, Alan Curbishley, Franco Zola and Avram Grant before
joining Liverpool as first team coach in 2011. He was most recently
assistant to Steve Clarke at Reading before the duo were fired following a
string of poor results. However he has returned to the game after just one
week without a job. In May 2011 he entered the race - unsuccessfully - to
replace Avram Grant, stating: "I would love the opportunity to speak to the
owners and Karren Brady and give my views about the future. Maybe in the
future I will be given a opportunity to turn it around."
That opportunity has now arisen, though not at the Boleyn Ground as hoped.
Keen's assistant at Colchester - who are currently bottom of League One - is
former Us midfielder David Wright, who makes the step up from Under 21 boss.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammer suffers cardiac arrest
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Ex-Hammers goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek is in a critical condition after
suffering a cardiac arrest on Sunday. The 47-year-old was jogging in his
home town of Ostrava in the Czech Republic when he was taken ill. Although
he was immediately rushed to hospital, he remains unconscious and in
intensive care. Agent Steve Wraith told BBC Sport: ""I spoke to his family
in the Czech Republic who said his heart had stopped. He is in a critical
condition in hospital and remains unconscious." The former goalkeeper made
three appearances on loan for West Ham in the 2003/04 season, having been
signed as a replacement for another loanee, Rami Shabaan. Speaking at the
time of his move, Srnicek said: "I feel good being here; I had a session and
a talk with the manager and I am enjoying it. I am here for a month and we
will see how it goes afterwards. This is a good chance and I have taken it."
Following the culmination of his short-term loan, the Czech stopper - who
made his debut in the 4-1 defeat at Millwall on 21 March 2004 - completed a
free transfer to West Ham having been released by Portsmouth but made just
two further first team appearances. He represented the club in a goalless
draw with Derby at the Boleyn Ground and a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at
Selhurst Park before losing his place to Stephen Bywater. Srnicek was also
an unused substitute in the 1-0 play-off final defeat to Crystal Palace at
the Millennium Stadium in May 2004. The thoughts and best wishes of everyone
at KUMB are with Pavel and his family.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Italian striker back on West Ham's radar
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic is once again being linked with a move for Juventus forward
Simone Zaza.
West Ham came agonisingly close to landing the 24-year-old during the summer
transfer window after the two clubs agreed a deal, only for the player
himself to reject the move following the departure of two key figures -
Fernando Llorente and Kingsley Coman - which sent him up the pecking order
at Juve.
However West Ham - and specifically Bilic, who is a huge fan of the player -
are understood to have renewed their interest following the recent injury
crisis that saw Mauro Zarate and Nikica Jelavic start at Swansea yesterday.
Zaza - whose rejection led to the deadline day arrival of Jelavic from Hull
City - has made just three starts for Juventus in Serie A so far this
season, scoring twice, including the opening goal in a 4-0 win over Torino
last Wednesday.
In addition to four Serie A appearances from the bench he had made two cameo
appearances in the Champions League, featured once in the Coppa Italia and
made one substitute appearance for Italy an a 3-1 defeat in Belgium last
month.
However he is understood to be receptive to a move with a place in next
summer's European Championships potentially at stake.
"It's an honour that [Juve coach] Allegri has said he doesn't want me to
leave, it really is, but there's a European Championship in June," Zaza told
La Gazzetta dello Sport. I'm happy here, but [Italy coach Antonio] Conte has
been clear and there's a European Championship in June and I hope to be
playing regularly."
* In other transfer news, the Hammers are once again being linked with a
move for former Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor who has been out of
contract since agreeing to terminate his £100,000-per-week contract at White
Hart Lane in September.
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YES IT'S MORE OF THE SAME BUT FOR NOW, THE SAME IS GOOD ENOUGH
By Benjamin Cronin 21 Dec 2015 at 20:45
WTID
In my most recent post, I tried to explain how what could be perceived as a
disappointing winless run was in actual fact, an acceptable run of results.
Some may have agreed with that stance, some may have disagreed with it, but
I stand by my comments and that stance still remains almost one week on. It
was an incredibly dull affair at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday afternoon,
not the best game to watch by any stretch of the imagination. It was a great
opportunity to get a much needed win under our belt, a game most of us would
have been confident going into but unfortunately, one that didn't have the
desired outcome. However, it was another clean sheet and another a point on
the board.
The foundation of reasoning behind my belief that going without a win in six
(it was six, now seven) Premier League games was acceptable was that for the
most recent of those games, we were looking for the win and in fairness,
probably should have got it. Having caught myself almost nodding off during
the game against Swansea, I don't think many would say it was similar affair
to those against West Brom, Manchester United and Stoke. Considering Swansea
were without a manager and sitting in the bottom three of the table, if we'd
managed the same level of performance as those previous three fixtures,
maximum points would have been there for the taking. If only it were that
simple.
The statistics from the match made for quite interesting reading and with
the commentators and pundits intent on drawing everyone's attention to them,
they were quite hard to miss. Swansea have always been a possession side and
Sunday's game was no different, short and simple passes in areas that were
of no threat is essentially what we had to watch for 90 minutes. Yes, there
were over 30 attempts on goal between the two sides but only four of those
(two a piece) were actually on target. It's easy to sit back and say all we
had to do was attack a bit more and put them under pressure but that would
have undoubtedly worked in their favour. Those short, simple passes would
have quickened up and found gaps to create clear cut chances, rather than
speculative efforts from 25+ yards out. We've been left with incredibly
limited options due to recent injuries and having had time to think and
watch most of the game again (the Sky+ fast forward facility was fully
utilised), Slav probably got things right. Well, as right as he could have
anyway.
On a different day, we could have snatched the game and been pleased as
punch to come away with a win. If we take that view though, on that
different day, it could have been the Swans who took all three points.
Adrian was once again in fine form and made a few great saves, ones that
certainly looked more goal bound than the efforts Fabianski got in the way
of. While I was screaming at the TV when Ashley Williams appeared to handle
the ball just after half-time, I found myself wincing in acceptance at both
Antonio and Collins appearing to do the same (no matter how convincing the
theatrics that followed were).
While the negatives are perhaps more evident from our most recent
performance, as I stated before, I'm still happy with the progress we have
made. Things can quickly change and while these draws could turn into
defeats and see us drop down the league, they could also turn into wins and
see us put daylight between those below us and start overtaking those above.
I guess it depends on your outlook but given our current situation and the
circumstances we are playing under, I'm happy to see us get a few draws on
the bounce and show that we are difficult to beat. Yes, if one or two of
those draws had been wins it would have been great but I shouldn't have to
re-iterate, we are 8th in the Premier League at Christmas and still only
four points of 4th position.
While I've been pleased with our defensive performances and the potential
Michail Antonio has shown, I'm sure, like me, everyone is eagerly
anticipating the return of Payet, Lanzini, Moses and Reid because of the
difference we know they are capable of making. Unfortunately, we're going to
have to battle on and do our best until those returns come about. Our best
might not be good enough for a lot of people at the moment and I can
understand that, but perhaps we just need a bit of perspective and to look
forward to what the New Year brings. At the moment we have more promise and
hope than ever before, we're in a good position to build and there's
exciting times ahead. We've got the transfer window to look forward to but
I'm going to try and enjoy Christmas with my family and hope you all do the
same before all that fun begins.
COYI!
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West Ham hopeful of receiving triple fitness boost ahead of Boxing Day clash
with Aston Villa
13:38, 21 DEC 2015 UPDATED 13:38, 21 DEC 2015
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
The Hammers are hoping to have Manuel Lanzini, Andy Carroll and Enner
Valencia all available for the trip to Villa Park
The Mirror
West Ham are hoping for a triple fitness boost for their Boxing Day trip to
Aston Villa. Manuel Lanzini and Andy Carroll are set to be fit again for
Saturday's Villa Park clash. Playmaker Lanzini was ruled out for six weeks
at the start of December with a thigh injury. But his recovery has
progressed much quicker than expected and he is now on course to return
against Villa. Striker Carroll is expected to be fit after missing
yesterday's draw at Swansea with a groin injury. Meanwhile, Enner Valencia
is ready to step up his workload against Villa.
The forward made a second substitutes appearance against Swansea after
recovering from his second ankle injury of his injury-hit season.
Co-chairman David Gold said: "He could only play 30 mins (against Swansea),
next week he should be able to play 90." Gold has revealed Dimitri Payet is
also ahead of schedule in his recovery from an ankle injury and is set to
make his comeback sooner than expected. Payet was ruled out for three months
in November but Gold said: "If all goes well Payet will be back mid
January."
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Payet may be back next month
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has told long suffering fans the Hammers could have every front
line player bar Diafra Sakho back by next month. And Dimi Payet could easily
be back in the first team by mid January according to the co chairman who
refuses to let the treatment table blues get him down. He told
ClaretandHugh: "Diafra will take a little while and Winston needs time but
these are not long term, out for a long time injuries. "Things are
improving all the time and Dimitri could be back by January for example.
He's doing very well indeed." "We weren't at our best against Swansea but we
got another point and that was important. Enner Valencia is back, Andy
Carroll should be back for Villa and Lanzini too. Things look very good and
we can feel very positive going forward and we keep our fingers crossed for
a quick Winston Reid recovery.
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Judge at end of season – this is the wrong time!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Final word on yesterday because the negativity pouring off some forums is
mind boggling.
People are unhappy that we didn't beat a team that we know can play but are
having a rough time and will I believe find themselves a long way from
relegation by season's end.
All the arguments have been aired and ClaretandHugh blogger Rich Sprent gave
the knockers a perfect answer in his superb blog earlier in the day.
But I'm still struggling big time to get my head around the position of
those who don't believe that six utterly key injuries weren't in some way
responsible for a lack lustre showing – yes those people actually exist.
Let me repeat my status on the ClaretandHugh Facebook @ forum from last
night: https://www.facebook.com/groups/363174467150521/
It's a bit like taking Ken Brown, Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Peter Brabrook
Geoff Hurst and Budgie Byrne out of the sixties team and then saying "What's
wrong with us."?
PF-hurst-20_1475435iHere's the truth of it for me. Just like way back then,
we are a good team when our best players are available and not very good
when they are not.
That will change in the summer when we add even more quality and improve
year on year.
In the meantime we must get used to the fact that we have a manager who
refuses to use injuries as his excuse but gets it in the ear from some
anyway as a result.
Were he to take that easy route he'd be criticised for doing so and thus
can't win so I'll say it for him and the squad: they are digging in,
treading water, not sliding and when the injured return we'll be beating
more than beat us.
Patience, tolerance, a bit of understanding and balance is required.
The moaning needs to stop until the season ends. That's the time to judge!
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Collison vote of confidence for Irons
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
Jack Collison watched yesterday's game against Swansea and reckons manager
Slaven Bilic and his team did a thoroughly professional job.
The former Hammer favourite really can't believe how anybody can criticise a
performance whch he described as "solid, workmanlike and gutsy given the
circumstances with injured players."
He said: "I don't think there's much doubt that we could easily have lost
that match last season as we may have done against Manchester United and
Stoke. "The fact is that Swansea are a very good side who really shouldn't
be in the position they occupy and I don't believe they will still be down
there at the end of the season. "We should all have known how tough it was
going to be and the manager set us up perfectly to absorb what they threw at
us and when Enner Valencia came on it was there for the winning. He changed
things. "The team dug in and showed how well they can defend as they have
done over the last three games. We know the flair they have when everybody
is fit and we should be delighted that they showed themselves so solid at
the back. "I'm sure the manager is and I certainly was. The keyword as far
as the fans is concerned is patience. When we get the big boys back we'll be
beating teams all over the place again."
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Keen to take over Colchester
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former Hammer Kevin Keen has been appointed the new manager of Colchester
United. The 48-year-old was officially announced as the new gaffer of the
strugglers at the bottom of League One.
Keen began his career with Wycombe Wanderers before joining West Ham in
1983. He spent seven seasons with the "Hammers" making 219 appearances and
scoring 21 goals. He was twice promoted and twice relegated with the Irons.
He left for Wolves in 1993 after a poor contract offer by the then manager
Billy Bonds.
kk2Keen rejoined West Ham in July 2002 as under-17 academy coach. He was
later appointed reserve team coach and became first-team coach in October
2006. Following the sacking of manager Alan Pardew in December 2006, he was
very briefly placed in temporary charge of first-team affairs until Alan
Curbishley was appointed two days later when he reverted to his previous
role as reserve team coach. He was formally announced as caretaker manager
on 3rd September 2008 after the resignation of manager Alan Curbishley. Keen
took charge of West Ham for one game only; a 3–2 away defeat to West Brom on
13th September 2008 before handing over the manager's role to Gianfranco
Zola. Keen was appointed again as caretaker-manager of West Ham, for their
last game of the 2010/2011 season, following the sacking of their previous
manager, Avram Grant on 15 May 2011.
After three spells as caretaker manager at West Ham, Keen left the club in
July 2011 to take up the role of first team coach at Liverpool.
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Hammers talk on investment speculation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham insiders have categorically denied that there is a wave of
investment coming into the club this winter or next summer. Rumours have
been sweeping a particular Irons on line forum for a couple of months that
big time investors have been kept under wraps by the club and that our
imminent arrival at the Olympic Stadium will see them emerge from the
shadows. However, ClaretandHugh again put the speculation on top club
sources today and can confirm that no such situation exists inside the club
– much as some may be wishing it.
The co chairmen, David Gold and David Sullivan have been looking for
investment partners since their arrival at the club but nobody has come
forward to share the financial burden.
And the chief shareholder has made it clear that the club has already
overspent and will lose money this year. Today, we were told when putting
the investment story on our top sources: "The club is always open to
conversations with realistic investors but sadly no one has come forward and
the two Davids remain alone in their running of the club's finances."
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Hartson: "Irons should be happy with a point"
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 21, 2015 in Videos, Whispers
C and H
West Ham Fan TV caught up with former Hammer Super Johnny Hartson after the
game
Hartson told WHFTV "Not the best game in the world, bit of a boring nil-nil
wasn't it, but as I said West Ham will be delighted to have gone away with a
point to be honest, to come here up to Swansea. A proper full strength squad
would put on a better show, do you know what I mean. No Lanzini, No Payet,
No Carroll, No Moses, No Reid. I thought the back two today especially
Collins were a rock. Jelavic made his first start of the season, he wasn't
really a major threat, Valencia came in and got a few shots off for you.
From a Swansea point of view dominated possession with 73% of the ball but
only two shots on target"
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Irons hang in and Payet-led cavalry on the way
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Leading ClaretandHugh blogger Rich Sprent has watched all the discussions
unfold on the forums and has come to some big conclusions on the present
state of play at Upton Park.
Normally we would add a 'rider' saying that the article reflects only the
views of the blogger and not necessarily ClaretandHugh but there's no need
this time – we agree with every word.
So where can this team finish? Top 10? Top 8? Top 6? Top 4? Fans'
expectations vary but certainly this team 'can beat anyone on our day'.
Some are finding that quite hard to swallow with the heart ripped from the
team over the past month or so. No wins in the last six games, no goals in
the last three. The creativity is missing. The team is cobbled together to
be 'hard to beat' and despite the really poor Villa being next up anything
other than a point looks to rely on some luck from somewhere.
So where are the positives? Three 0-0 draws on the bounce in a run that's
seen five draws and a humiliating loss at the hands of those preening cocks
of N17. Hard to see much to smile about?
I disagree. I am seeing the makings of a credible force. Yes, it's always
nice to see rip- roaring football, sublime skill and goals goals goals. They
say that you find more out about yourself during times of adversity than at
any other time. And this team are reminding me of the team that are
gatekeepers to being a consistent force in the Premier League top half –
Everton.
Whenever a West Ham side are beginning to purr it's usually the Toffess that
bring us down to earth. Despite being under-invested and having a relativity
small squad they show resilience in their spirit and continue to be a threat
on the European places year on year.
Slav has had to adapt his desire for having two flying fullbacks and a swarm
of attacking midfielders supporting a tirelessly running front man. Tomkins
has come in to good effect to shore things up, Collins throws himself in
front of everything. Antonio looks tireless in his work rate. They're doing
ok, even if not giving us what we all want.
The squad has been sorely tested and whilst the replacements lack all the
attributes of Sakho, Payet, Lanzini, Moses, Reid and big Andy they have
shown that they can stand up to teams and hang on in there.
Uninspiring as that may sound, that we have SIX players to come back in
contention for a starting spot and Valencia just back and getting minutes
under his belt, shows plenty.
It's not the exciting rip roaring free scoring Hammers that we know we are
when everyone's there. The cloth is being cut accordingly in a time of need.
We are six goals-for less than Everton and three less conceded. If we had
scored one more goal in each of the last six games we'd have converted five
draws to five wins. Another 10 points. We'd be 3 points behind the leaders
sitting in second spot.
IF, If, If… I know, I know, but… that we have hung in there and are still
sat in eighth spot is to be admired if not overly celebrated on the pitch in
front of the Bobby Moore Lower by manager and team.
The other unseen bonus is that the manager will have had ample opportunity
to see where the team's deficiencies lie.
The fullbacks have been a revelation, in how poor they've been. Tomkins is
doing a fantastic job standing in, but what we gain defensively from him, we
lose offensively. Alas, Jenkinson cannot be trusted without all the flair
players to link with when going forward.
And he doesn't seem to have the concentration in defending first that he had
last season. Cresswell is knuckling down and much more is expected from him
for the rest of the season. He has his moments both good and bad. He needs
to improve. Having to buy two fullbacks in the Summer could prove pricey.
Make no bones about it. We are in Plan B mode. Hunker down, try to nick a
win. It starts at the back. Having two fully operating fullbacks is
essential to fulfil the potential that the team can show. It provides width
when in possession and allows the creative swarm up front to do their thing.
Everton of the South? Not inspiring is it? It is a compliment however. That
we are top eight heading into the last two games of the calendar year is a
solid and good start for Slaven Bilic. We have seven draws. Only Sp*rs and
Everton have more.
Not getting beat when the chips are down is the way forward. The wagons are
circled and the Dimitri- Payet led cavalry are coming. Those reinforcements
will begin to make the difference as they each return over the last 21 games
of the season.
We sit above both Merseyside clubs. And I don't think it's a stretch to
estimate that three of the clubs above us, Watford, Palace and high flying
Leicester, wouldn't be above us if it was they who had six from their
preferred starting XI missing for over a month. I'd argue they'd be battling
the bottom 3.
Bring on the Villa and the Saints!
A huge ' Come on you Irons' and a 'Happy Holidays' to every Hammer
everywhere.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
It was a familiar story for us on Sunday as we drew for the third game in
succession. Although goals have been harder to come by since we've been hit
so hard by injuries, we have tightened up significantly at the other end and
managed to claim results against Manchester United, Stoke City and now
Swansea City. It might not have been the three points we really wanted – but
the team do deserve credit for the way they have dug in after being faced
with adversity in recent weeks. Yes, we have struggled to score, but any
team would after being shorn of four top attacking players, and three of
their top four goalscorers. Without Dimitri Payet, Diafra Sakho, Manuel
Lanzini, Victor Moses and Andy Carroll it's no surprise that the goals have
not been as free-flowing as at the start of the season. With the lack of
goals, it is important that the defenders have stepped up to the plate and
once again I have to say that Adrian was magnificent at Swansea. He is
having a fine season, and has really established himself as one of the top
goalkeepers in the league in the three seasons he has been here. Equally
impressive on Sunday was James Collins, who gave a real lion-hearted display
to help us hold on to our clean sheet and ultimately make our point. James
has had to be patient this season as we now have four top quality centre
halves at the Club, but he has taken his chance with our recent clean sheets
and he was a big part of the result on Sunday. An away point is a positive,
and there are more positives to take as the manager has made clear that we
expect some of the injured players back sooner rather than later.
We could be looking at having Lanzini back for Aston Villa or Southampton
and Payet for Liverpool, so although we have lacked a cutting edge recently
the cavalry will be arriving soon! It has been a hugely encouraging first
half of this season, and as Christmas and the New Year approaches, we can
look forward to 2016 with great optimism as we welcome those key players
back.
I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and look forward to
seeing you at Aston Villa.
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Hammers fans enjoy festive treat
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans were given a festive treat on Monday as Mauro Zarate,
Pedro Obiang and Enner Valenica headed to the intu Lakeside Thurrock centre
for a player signing session. The trio were on hand at the Hammers store to
pose for photographs and sign autographs for hundreds of fans who combined
their last-minute Christmas shopping with the chance to meet their heroes.
Less than 24 hours after securing a point at Swansea City, the first teamers
were appreciative of the support shown to them both at the Liberty Stadium
and at Lakeside.
Zarate said: "It was great to meet the fans on Monday. They've seen us for
pictures and for us to sign autographs for them so it's been a great day.
"Especially at Christmas it's a good moment for us and for all the fans
here. "Their support was great at Swansea on Sunday, like always, and now we
have to win at Aston Villa for them."
Supporter Steve from Colchester, who took his son Jake, 8, to the event was
thrilled to meet the trio. He said: "It was great today. Jake really wanted
to see Mauro Zarate as he is his favourite player. "We've been really
impressed with how we've performed this season. We've been going a lot and
hopefully will get a season ticket for next year. Jake added: "I love Mauro
because he can really lift the ball into the goal and he has scored some
really good goals this season."
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James Collins: Wales defender wants regular West Ham spot
BBC.co.uk
Defender James Collins hopes to earn a new deal with West Ham to help secure
his place in Wales' Euro 2016 squad. The 32-year-old has played in only
seven league games so far this season and his contract expires in the
summer. Collins started in Sunday's 0-0 draw at Swansea and says he needs to
be playing regularly if he is to be involved with Wales in France. "I need
to concentrate on my club form and playing well for West Ham," Collins said.
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Keen lands new management role
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former West Ham midfielder Kevin Keen has been appointed as the new manager
of League One side Colchester United. Keen - who took temporary charge of
West Ham following the departure of Alan Pardew in December 2006, the first
of three stints in that particular role - was named the new manager of the
struggling Essex club earlier this afternoon. Now 48, Keen spent a decade as
a Hammer between 1983 and 1993 making 278 appearances for the club in all
competitions, before moving into coaching. At West Ham he worked alongside
the likes of Pardew, Alan Curbishley, Franco Zola and Avram Grant before
joining Liverpool as first team coach in 2011. He was most recently
assistant to Steve Clarke at Reading before the duo were fired following a
string of poor results. However he has returned to the game after just one
week without a job. In May 2011 he entered the race - unsuccessfully - to
replace Avram Grant, stating: "I would love the opportunity to speak to the
owners and Karren Brady and give my views about the future. Maybe in the
future I will be given a opportunity to turn it around."
That opportunity has now arisen, though not at the Boleyn Ground as hoped.
Keen's assistant at Colchester - who are currently bottom of League One - is
former Us midfielder David Wright, who makes the step up from Under 21 boss.
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Former Hammer suffers cardiac arrest
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Ex-Hammers goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek is in a critical condition after
suffering a cardiac arrest on Sunday. The 47-year-old was jogging in his
home town of Ostrava in the Czech Republic when he was taken ill. Although
he was immediately rushed to hospital, he remains unconscious and in
intensive care. Agent Steve Wraith told BBC Sport: ""I spoke to his family
in the Czech Republic who said his heart had stopped. He is in a critical
condition in hospital and remains unconscious." The former goalkeeper made
three appearances on loan for West Ham in the 2003/04 season, having been
signed as a replacement for another loanee, Rami Shabaan. Speaking at the
time of his move, Srnicek said: "I feel good being here; I had a session and
a talk with the manager and I am enjoying it. I am here for a month and we
will see how it goes afterwards. This is a good chance and I have taken it."
Following the culmination of his short-term loan, the Czech stopper - who
made his debut in the 4-1 defeat at Millwall on 21 March 2004 - completed a
free transfer to West Ham having been released by Portsmouth but made just
two further first team appearances. He represented the club in a goalless
draw with Derby at the Boleyn Ground and a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at
Selhurst Park before losing his place to Stephen Bywater. Srnicek was also
an unused substitute in the 1-0 play-off final defeat to Crystal Palace at
the Millennium Stadium in May 2004. The thoughts and best wishes of everyone
at KUMB are with Pavel and his family.
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Italian striker back on West Ham's radar
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic is once again being linked with a move for Juventus forward
Simone Zaza.
West Ham came agonisingly close to landing the 24-year-old during the summer
transfer window after the two clubs agreed a deal, only for the player
himself to reject the move following the departure of two key figures -
Fernando Llorente and Kingsley Coman - which sent him up the pecking order
at Juve.
However West Ham - and specifically Bilic, who is a huge fan of the player -
are understood to have renewed their interest following the recent injury
crisis that saw Mauro Zarate and Nikica Jelavic start at Swansea yesterday.
Zaza - whose rejection led to the deadline day arrival of Jelavic from Hull
City - has made just three starts for Juventus in Serie A so far this
season, scoring twice, including the opening goal in a 4-0 win over Torino
last Wednesday.
In addition to four Serie A appearances from the bench he had made two cameo
appearances in the Champions League, featured once in the Coppa Italia and
made one substitute appearance for Italy an a 3-1 defeat in Belgium last
month.
However he is understood to be receptive to a move with a place in next
summer's European Championships potentially at stake.
"It's an honour that [Juve coach] Allegri has said he doesn't want me to
leave, it really is, but there's a European Championship in June," Zaza told
La Gazzetta dello Sport. I'm happy here, but [Italy coach Antonio] Conte has
been clear and there's a European Championship in June and I hope to be
playing regularly."
* In other transfer news, the Hammers are once again being linked with a
move for former Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor who has been out of
contract since agreeing to terminate his £100,000-per-week contract at White
Hart Lane in September.
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YES IT'S MORE OF THE SAME BUT FOR NOW, THE SAME IS GOOD ENOUGH
By Benjamin Cronin 21 Dec 2015 at 20:45
WTID
In my most recent post, I tried to explain how what could be perceived as a
disappointing winless run was in actual fact, an acceptable run of results.
Some may have agreed with that stance, some may have disagreed with it, but
I stand by my comments and that stance still remains almost one week on. It
was an incredibly dull affair at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday afternoon,
not the best game to watch by any stretch of the imagination. It was a great
opportunity to get a much needed win under our belt, a game most of us would
have been confident going into but unfortunately, one that didn't have the
desired outcome. However, it was another clean sheet and another a point on
the board.
The foundation of reasoning behind my belief that going without a win in six
(it was six, now seven) Premier League games was acceptable was that for the
most recent of those games, we were looking for the win and in fairness,
probably should have got it. Having caught myself almost nodding off during
the game against Swansea, I don't think many would say it was similar affair
to those against West Brom, Manchester United and Stoke. Considering Swansea
were without a manager and sitting in the bottom three of the table, if we'd
managed the same level of performance as those previous three fixtures,
maximum points would have been there for the taking. If only it were that
simple.
The statistics from the match made for quite interesting reading and with
the commentators and pundits intent on drawing everyone's attention to them,
they were quite hard to miss. Swansea have always been a possession side and
Sunday's game was no different, short and simple passes in areas that were
of no threat is essentially what we had to watch for 90 minutes. Yes, there
were over 30 attempts on goal between the two sides but only four of those
(two a piece) were actually on target. It's easy to sit back and say all we
had to do was attack a bit more and put them under pressure but that would
have undoubtedly worked in their favour. Those short, simple passes would
have quickened up and found gaps to create clear cut chances, rather than
speculative efforts from 25+ yards out. We've been left with incredibly
limited options due to recent injuries and having had time to think and
watch most of the game again (the Sky+ fast forward facility was fully
utilised), Slav probably got things right. Well, as right as he could have
anyway.
On a different day, we could have snatched the game and been pleased as
punch to come away with a win. If we take that view though, on that
different day, it could have been the Swans who took all three points.
Adrian was once again in fine form and made a few great saves, ones that
certainly looked more goal bound than the efforts Fabianski got in the way
of. While I was screaming at the TV when Ashley Williams appeared to handle
the ball just after half-time, I found myself wincing in acceptance at both
Antonio and Collins appearing to do the same (no matter how convincing the
theatrics that followed were).
While the negatives are perhaps more evident from our most recent
performance, as I stated before, I'm still happy with the progress we have
made. Things can quickly change and while these draws could turn into
defeats and see us drop down the league, they could also turn into wins and
see us put daylight between those below us and start overtaking those above.
I guess it depends on your outlook but given our current situation and the
circumstances we are playing under, I'm happy to see us get a few draws on
the bounce and show that we are difficult to beat. Yes, if one or two of
those draws had been wins it would have been great but I shouldn't have to
re-iterate, we are 8th in the Premier League at Christmas and still only
four points of 4th position.
While I've been pleased with our defensive performances and the potential
Michail Antonio has shown, I'm sure, like me, everyone is eagerly
anticipating the return of Payet, Lanzini, Moses and Reid because of the
difference we know they are capable of making. Unfortunately, we're going to
have to battle on and do our best until those returns come about. Our best
might not be good enough for a lot of people at the moment and I can
understand that, but perhaps we just need a bit of perspective and to look
forward to what the New Year brings. At the moment we have more promise and
hope than ever before, we're in a good position to build and there's
exciting times ahead. We've got the transfer window to look forward to but
I'm going to try and enjoy Christmas with my family and hope you all do the
same before all that fun begins.
COYI!
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West Ham hopeful of receiving triple fitness boost ahead of Boxing Day clash
with Aston Villa
13:38, 21 DEC 2015 UPDATED 13:38, 21 DEC 2015
BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA
The Hammers are hoping to have Manuel Lanzini, Andy Carroll and Enner
Valencia all available for the trip to Villa Park
The Mirror
West Ham are hoping for a triple fitness boost for their Boxing Day trip to
Aston Villa. Manuel Lanzini and Andy Carroll are set to be fit again for
Saturday's Villa Park clash. Playmaker Lanzini was ruled out for six weeks
at the start of December with a thigh injury. But his recovery has
progressed much quicker than expected and he is now on course to return
against Villa. Striker Carroll is expected to be fit after missing
yesterday's draw at Swansea with a groin injury. Meanwhile, Enner Valencia
is ready to step up his workload against Villa.
The forward made a second substitutes appearance against Swansea after
recovering from his second ankle injury of his injury-hit season.
Co-chairman David Gold said: "He could only play 30 mins (against Swansea),
next week he should be able to play 90." Gold has revealed Dimitri Payet is
also ahead of schedule in his recovery from an ankle injury and is set to
make his comeback sooner than expected. Payet was ruled out for three months
in November but Gold said: "If all goes well Payet will be back mid
January."
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Payet may be back next month
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
David Gold has told long suffering fans the Hammers could have every front
line player bar Diafra Sakho back by next month. And Dimi Payet could easily
be back in the first team by mid January according to the co chairman who
refuses to let the treatment table blues get him down. He told
ClaretandHugh: "Diafra will take a little while and Winston needs time but
these are not long term, out for a long time injuries. "Things are
improving all the time and Dimitri could be back by January for example.
He's doing very well indeed." "We weren't at our best against Swansea but we
got another point and that was important. Enner Valencia is back, Andy
Carroll should be back for Villa and Lanzini too. Things look very good and
we can feel very positive going forward and we keep our fingers crossed for
a quick Winston Reid recovery.
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Judge at end of season – this is the wrong time!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Final word on yesterday because the negativity pouring off some forums is
mind boggling.
People are unhappy that we didn't beat a team that we know can play but are
having a rough time and will I believe find themselves a long way from
relegation by season's end.
All the arguments have been aired and ClaretandHugh blogger Rich Sprent gave
the knockers a perfect answer in his superb blog earlier in the day.
But I'm still struggling big time to get my head around the position of
those who don't believe that six utterly key injuries weren't in some way
responsible for a lack lustre showing – yes those people actually exist.
Let me repeat my status on the ClaretandHugh Facebook @ forum from last
night: https://www.facebook.com/groups/363174467150521/
It's a bit like taking Ken Brown, Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Peter Brabrook
Geoff Hurst and Budgie Byrne out of the sixties team and then saying "What's
wrong with us."?
PF-hurst-20_1475435iHere's the truth of it for me. Just like way back then,
we are a good team when our best players are available and not very good
when they are not.
That will change in the summer when we add even more quality and improve
year on year.
In the meantime we must get used to the fact that we have a manager who
refuses to use injuries as his excuse but gets it in the ear from some
anyway as a result.
Were he to take that easy route he'd be criticised for doing so and thus
can't win so I'll say it for him and the squad: they are digging in,
treading water, not sliding and when the injured return we'll be beating
more than beat us.
Patience, tolerance, a bit of understanding and balance is required.
The moaning needs to stop until the season ends. That's the time to judge!
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Collison vote of confidence for Irons
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive
Jack Collison watched yesterday's game against Swansea and reckons manager
Slaven Bilic and his team did a thoroughly professional job.
The former Hammer favourite really can't believe how anybody can criticise a
performance whch he described as "solid, workmanlike and gutsy given the
circumstances with injured players."
He said: "I don't think there's much doubt that we could easily have lost
that match last season as we may have done against Manchester United and
Stoke. "The fact is that Swansea are a very good side who really shouldn't
be in the position they occupy and I don't believe they will still be down
there at the end of the season. "We should all have known how tough it was
going to be and the manager set us up perfectly to absorb what they threw at
us and when Enner Valencia came on it was there for the winning. He changed
things. "The team dug in and showed how well they can defend as they have
done over the last three games. We know the flair they have when everybody
is fit and we should be delighted that they showed themselves so solid at
the back. "I'm sure the manager is and I certainly was. The keyword as far
as the fans is concerned is patience. When we get the big boys back we'll be
beating teams all over the place again."
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Keen to take over Colchester
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Former Hammer Kevin Keen has been appointed the new manager of Colchester
United. The 48-year-old was officially announced as the new gaffer of the
strugglers at the bottom of League One.
Keen began his career with Wycombe Wanderers before joining West Ham in
1983. He spent seven seasons with the "Hammers" making 219 appearances and
scoring 21 goals. He was twice promoted and twice relegated with the Irons.
He left for Wolves in 1993 after a poor contract offer by the then manager
Billy Bonds.
kk2Keen rejoined West Ham in July 2002 as under-17 academy coach. He was
later appointed reserve team coach and became first-team coach in October
2006. Following the sacking of manager Alan Pardew in December 2006, he was
very briefly placed in temporary charge of first-team affairs until Alan
Curbishley was appointed two days later when he reverted to his previous
role as reserve team coach. He was formally announced as caretaker manager
on 3rd September 2008 after the resignation of manager Alan Curbishley. Keen
took charge of West Ham for one game only; a 3–2 away defeat to West Brom on
13th September 2008 before handing over the manager's role to Gianfranco
Zola. Keen was appointed again as caretaker-manager of West Ham, for their
last game of the 2010/2011 season, following the sacking of their previous
manager, Avram Grant on 15 May 2011.
After three spells as caretaker manager at West Ham, Keen left the club in
July 2011 to take up the role of first team coach at Liverpool.
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Hammers talk on investment speculation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham insiders have categorically denied that there is a wave of
investment coming into the club this winter or next summer. Rumours have
been sweeping a particular Irons on line forum for a couple of months that
big time investors have been kept under wraps by the club and that our
imminent arrival at the Olympic Stadium will see them emerge from the
shadows. However, ClaretandHugh again put the speculation on top club
sources today and can confirm that no such situation exists inside the club
– much as some may be wishing it.
The co chairmen, David Gold and David Sullivan have been looking for
investment partners since their arrival at the club but nobody has come
forward to share the financial burden.
And the chief shareholder has made it clear that the club has already
overspent and will lose money this year. Today, we were told when putting
the investment story on our top sources: "The club is always open to
conversations with realistic investors but sadly no one has come forward and
the two Davids remain alone in their running of the club's finances."
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Hartson: "Irons should be happy with a point"
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 21, 2015 in Videos, Whispers
C and H
West Ham Fan TV caught up with former Hammer Super Johnny Hartson after the
game
Hartson told WHFTV "Not the best game in the world, bit of a boring nil-nil
wasn't it, but as I said West Ham will be delighted to have gone away with a
point to be honest, to come here up to Swansea. A proper full strength squad
would put on a better show, do you know what I mean. No Lanzini, No Payet,
No Carroll, No Moses, No Reid. I thought the back two today especially
Collins were a rock. Jelavic made his first start of the season, he wasn't
really a major threat, Valencia came in and got a few shots off for you.
From a Swansea point of view dominated possession with 73% of the ball but
only two shots on target"
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Irons hang in and Payet-led cavalry on the way
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 21, 2015 in News, Whispers
C and H
Leading ClaretandHugh blogger Rich Sprent has watched all the discussions
unfold on the forums and has come to some big conclusions on the present
state of play at Upton Park.
Normally we would add a 'rider' saying that the article reflects only the
views of the blogger and not necessarily ClaretandHugh but there's no need
this time – we agree with every word.
So where can this team finish? Top 10? Top 8? Top 6? Top 4? Fans'
expectations vary but certainly this team 'can beat anyone on our day'.
Some are finding that quite hard to swallow with the heart ripped from the
team over the past month or so. No wins in the last six games, no goals in
the last three. The creativity is missing. The team is cobbled together to
be 'hard to beat' and despite the really poor Villa being next up anything
other than a point looks to rely on some luck from somewhere.
So where are the positives? Three 0-0 draws on the bounce in a run that's
seen five draws and a humiliating loss at the hands of those preening cocks
of N17. Hard to see much to smile about?
I disagree. I am seeing the makings of a credible force. Yes, it's always
nice to see rip- roaring football, sublime skill and goals goals goals. They
say that you find more out about yourself during times of adversity than at
any other time. And this team are reminding me of the team that are
gatekeepers to being a consistent force in the Premier League top half –
Everton.
Whenever a West Ham side are beginning to purr it's usually the Toffess that
bring us down to earth. Despite being under-invested and having a relativity
small squad they show resilience in their spirit and continue to be a threat
on the European places year on year.
Slav has had to adapt his desire for having two flying fullbacks and a swarm
of attacking midfielders supporting a tirelessly running front man. Tomkins
has come in to good effect to shore things up, Collins throws himself in
front of everything. Antonio looks tireless in his work rate. They're doing
ok, even if not giving us what we all want.
The squad has been sorely tested and whilst the replacements lack all the
attributes of Sakho, Payet, Lanzini, Moses, Reid and big Andy they have
shown that they can stand up to teams and hang on in there.
Uninspiring as that may sound, that we have SIX players to come back in
contention for a starting spot and Valencia just back and getting minutes
under his belt, shows plenty.
It's not the exciting rip roaring free scoring Hammers that we know we are
when everyone's there. The cloth is being cut accordingly in a time of need.
We are six goals-for less than Everton and three less conceded. If we had
scored one more goal in each of the last six games we'd have converted five
draws to five wins. Another 10 points. We'd be 3 points behind the leaders
sitting in second spot.
IF, If, If… I know, I know, but… that we have hung in there and are still
sat in eighth spot is to be admired if not overly celebrated on the pitch in
front of the Bobby Moore Lower by manager and team.
The other unseen bonus is that the manager will have had ample opportunity
to see where the team's deficiencies lie.
The fullbacks have been a revelation, in how poor they've been. Tomkins is
doing a fantastic job standing in, but what we gain defensively from him, we
lose offensively. Alas, Jenkinson cannot be trusted without all the flair
players to link with when going forward.
And he doesn't seem to have the concentration in defending first that he had
last season. Cresswell is knuckling down and much more is expected from him
for the rest of the season. He has his moments both good and bad. He needs
to improve. Having to buy two fullbacks in the Summer could prove pricey.
Make no bones about it. We are in Plan B mode. Hunker down, try to nick a
win. It starts at the back. Having two fully operating fullbacks is
essential to fulfil the potential that the team can show. It provides width
when in possession and allows the creative swarm up front to do their thing.
Everton of the South? Not inspiring is it? It is a compliment however. That
we are top eight heading into the last two games of the calendar year is a
solid and good start for Slaven Bilic. We have seven draws. Only Sp*rs and
Everton have more.
Not getting beat when the chips are down is the way forward. The wagons are
circled and the Dimitri- Payet led cavalry are coming. Those reinforcements
will begin to make the difference as they each return over the last 21 games
of the season.
We sit above both Merseyside clubs. And I don't think it's a stretch to
estimate that three of the clubs above us, Watford, Palace and high flying
Leicester, wouldn't be above us if it was they who had six from their
preferred starting XI missing for over a month. I'd argue they'd be battling
the bottom 3.
Bring on the Villa and the Saints!
A huge ' Come on you Irons' and a 'Happy Holidays' to every Hammer
everywhere.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, December 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st December 2015
FT - Swansea City 0-0 West Ham United
WHUFC.com
Swansea City 0-0 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League, Liberty Stadium, Sunday 20 December 2015
West Ham United were held to a record third consecutive goalless Barclays Premier League draw in a keenly fought contest at Swansea City on Sunday.
There were chances to win the game with the goalkeepers at either end being kept busy, but with Slaven Bilic's new look back four once again in imperious mood, the Swans could find no way through.
Both teams went into the game looking for their first win in seven, although the Hammers were confident defensively following consecutive shutouts against Manchester United and Stoke City in their previous two games.
The hosts also had reason to be optimistic after a much-improved performance in losing 2-1 at Manchester City last time out and they started the game brightly with Andre Ayew heading the game's first chance over Adrian's crossbar in the ninth minute.
Ki Sung-Yueng then went even closer, drilling a low shot goalwards from the angle that Adrian was forced to turn behind with his legs.
The Hammers were threatening sporadically, too, with Mauro Zarate and Mark Noble both trying their luck from distance without success. The former did better just after the half-hour mark, with a vicious, swerving effort requiring Lukasz Fabianski's to tip it round the post.
A lively first half concluded with Ayew going close five minutes before the break. He was denied as lunging tackles from a combination of Aaron Cresswell and James Collins, playing in his homeland, did enough to divert his effort into the side netting.
The second half began in more cagey fashion and the first effort on goal was not until 12 minutes after the re-start, when the lively Michail Antonio's powerful shot was deflected wide. Slaven Bilic, who had handed Nikica Jelavic his first start in place of the injured Andy Carroll in his only change, sought to liven things up by bringing on Enner Valencia for Zarate on the hour mark.
Seconds later, the game did spring to life, but at the wrong end, as Jack Cork sent a screaming volley towards Adrian's top corner from the edge of the area. Thankfully, the Spaniard was equal to it and palmed the ball round the post.
The Swans then had a good shout for a penalty after Ki's shot appeared to catch Collins' hand, but referee Lee Mason only awarded the hosts a corner.
The Hammers started to turn up the heat in the pouring rain up the other end, as Valencia announced his return from a high ankle injury with a rasping effort that Fabianski did well to tip over.
Both sides pushed for the winner but failed to create any real efforts of note. The Hammers will continue their hunt for goals with a Boxing Day trip to Aston Villa up next.
Swansea City: Fabianski, Rangel (Naughton 68), Williams, Fernandez, Taylor, Britton, Cork (Shelvey 73), Ki, Sigurdsson, Gomis, Ayew (Barrow 83)
Subs not used: Nordfeldt, Amat, Emnes, Montero
West Ham United: Adrian, Tomkins, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Song (Obiang 72), Noble, Zarate (Valencia 60), Kouyate, Antonio (Jenkinson 85), Jelavic
Subs not used: Randolph, Hendrie, Oxford, Cullen
Booked: Jenkinson (87)
Referee: Lee Mason
Attendance: 20,661 (1,025 from West Ham United)
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Reece Burke played the full game as Bradford City secured a 1-0 win away at Chesterfield. Tony McMahon's second-half strike secured the three points which takes the Bantams to eighth in League One.
Development Squad teammates Elliot Lee and Martin Samuelsen turned opponents for the afternoon as Blackpool beat Peterborough United 2-0.
Lee's Tangerines got off to a brilliant start as Mark Cullen and Brad Potts netted inside the opening 31 minutes, the win lifts Blackpool to 17th in League One.
Clarke Bogard's Tilbury FC maintained their terrific run of form with a 4-0 win over Witham Town in The Ryman Football League Division North.
Diego Poyet was an unused substitute in MK Dons' 2-1 defeat away at Nottingham Forest.
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Ladies secure festive victory
WHUFC.com
West Ham Ladies secured a festive treat as Romina Pinna's hat-trick helped the Hammers to a 4-2 win over Plymouth Argyle Ladies on Sunday.
Having not won a FA Women's Premier League South fixture since the end of October, Marc Nurse's side were on their way towards an early Christmas present when Italian winder Pinna fired the Hammers into a two-goal lead, before captain Katie Middleton pulled one back for the visitors.
In the second half, Pinna secured her hat-trick and former Millwall Lionesses midfielder Shirvae Edwards added a fourth either side of a second consolation goal for Argyle.
After last weekend's disappointing 3-1 defeat to fellow strugglers Queens Park Rangers Ladies, Nurse made five changes to the starting eleven. Indian international Aditi Chauhan returned between the sticks, whilst Chelsea Hinz and Olivia Sammons lined up in the home defence.
Further forward, Development Squad midfielder Gemma Abela came into the midfield and lightning quick Whitney Locke replaced Erika Campesi on the wing.
In the early stages of the game, the hosts looked confident of ending 2015 on a high as Pinna, Edwards and Locke began causing the visiting defence all sorts of problems.
It took West Ham just 12 minutes to push themselves ahead. After captain Katie Bottom was tripped inside the penalty box, Pinna stepped up and confidently dispatched her second goal is as many games.
Then, just before the half an hour mark, a threaded ball through from Edwards found Pinna in behind and she extended the hosts' lead.
It wasn't all plain sailing in the first half for Nurse's team though as Middleton found enough space inside the Hammers penalty box to smash home a goal through Chauhan.
After the break, both sides battled it out for the next and probably most important goal of the game, which came with just nine minutes left as Pinna broke through the Argyle defence and rounded the keeper before slotting into an empty net for her hat-trick.
Just a minute later though, Plymouth pulled a goal back and installed a small amount of worry to the home side, before Edwards tapped home from close range to rubber-stamp the result for West Ham.
The Ladies will now rest and relax over the Christmas period, before returning to training to prepare for the visit of Cardiff City LFC to AFC Hornchurch on Sunday 3 January at 2pm.
Ladies: Chauhan, Bottom (c), Wheeler, Hinz (Missen), Sammons, Ray, Abela (Ritson), Miller (Campesi), Locke, Edwards, Pinna. Subs not used: Anderson-James.
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Adrian – We need three points at Villa
WHUFC.com
Goalkeeper Adrian is already targeting three Barclays Premier League points at Aston Villa on Boxing Day, after keeping a third successive clean sheet in Sunday's goalless draw at Swansea City. In torrential rain at the Liberty Stadium, the Spaniard was only called upon intermittently, but, just as he did against Stoke City a week earlier, made vital saves at pivotal moments. The Hammers' custodian saved with his feet from Ki Sung-Yueng in the first half, before clawing away Jack Cork's rasping drive in the second. Though he is rightly content with another shutout, the No13 called upon his colleagues to end their winless streak at Villa Park next time out. He told whufc.com: "We need to be happy, because a point away from home is good. But we really need to win already! "We're missing so many offensive players at the moment, like Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini and Diafra Sakho, so we are not so fresh in attack. So the most important thing is that we're defending very well, not just me, all the team. "The next game, at Villa, they are in a tough position now, so we need to go there and win the three points. "The Premier League is so difficult. You see the results each weekend and you're surprised with some results. At the end of the day, it's one more clean sheet, one more point for us and we need to prepare to win at Villa."
Unsurprisingly, Adrian reserved special mention for James Collins, who put his body on the line on umpteen occasions to preserve the visitors' clean sheet. And, as he tends to do, the Spaniard played down his own contribution, significant though it obviously was.
He continued: "Ginge played very well on Sunday, he made some very good blocks and helped us a lot in defence, together with Angelo Ogbonna, Aaron Cresswell and James Tomkins. "I am the goalkeeper and I always try to help my teammates. I always need to do my best and to keep a clean sheet is really important for me. "This time I was lucky enough to save some Swansea chances. I thought both goalkeepers did well, Lukasz Fabianski made a couple of good saves too, particularly the one from Enner Valencia. "We need to keep this same mentality, stay positive, because we're defending well and to improve that little bit in attack next time."
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Cresswell hails 'warrior' Collins
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell hailed 'warrior' James Collins after the Wales defender put in a typically selfless performance at Swansea City.
Collins ended the afternoon with a large bump on his head and most likely a few bruises after blocking a succession of Swansea shots to help earn his side a goalless Barclays Premier League draw.
Cresswell had a grandstand view of the No19's all-action display and could not hide his respect for his teammate's resilient display.
"You know what you're getting with Ginge – he'll give you 110 per cent week-in, week-out," said the left-back. "He has been fantastic for us when he has stepped in and I thought he was fantastic and arguably our best player. He's a warrior at the back."
West Ham were held to a record third straight goalless Premier League draw at the Liberty Stadium, where injuries to key attackers left Slaven Bilic without Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini, Andy Carroll, Victor Moses, Diafra Sakho and also centre-half Winston Reid.
While there was some frustration that the Hammers were unable to overcome a Swansea team which started the day in the relegation zone, Cresswell was keen to point out that there are no easy games in the top flight this season.
"It was obviously a tough game. Most teams will take a point coming away from home in the Premier League and if you'd said to us at the start of the season that we'd draw at Manchester United and Swansea, I think we'd have taken it.
"In a way, we're disappointed as well. Don't get me wrong, they've had chances as well, but we've kept three clean sheets in the last three games, which is a positive, so we'll take the positives and we'll move on to the next one.
"We've had a few chances in the last few games and we just need to take a few of them. We'll just get ourselves together again and prepared for Aston Villa next week.
"It just shows you the squad we have got this season has real depth. Dimi and Manu have arguably been our two main players this season, so we're looking forward to them coming back, but we've got a good squad here and got a good point in the end."
Next up for Cresswell and company is a Boxing Day trip to bottom side Aston Villa on Boxing Day, when the Hammers will be confident of ending their seven-match winless run.
The No3 revealed the squad will be training on Christmas Day before travelling to Birmingham, ensuring no stone is left unturned in their preparations.
"We are going to prepare ourselves the best we can for the fixtures we've got coming up over the next ten days or so. It's hard when you've got to play three games in seven days, but we won't use that as an excuse.
"We're going to be prepared and ready for those three games. We've got to be professional and it's part and parcel of the job and we've just got to get on with it.
"To be fair, I've always trained on Christmas Day every year apart from last year, and we'll get on with it and prepare as best we can.
"You can't go into any game thinking it's going to be an easy three points, even if you're one of the top teams. The league has been crazy this year and you can see anyone can beat anyone.
"We're fully aware that it's not going to be an easy ride so we're going to prepare for Villa and do the best we can."
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Bilic - We defended really good
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic hailed the 'team effort' which earned West Ham United a hard-fought Barclays Premier League point at Swansea City.
The Hammers defended superbly at the Liberty Stadium, where they secured a record-setting third straight goalless draw.
With six senior players, including five attackers, absent, West Ham could even have won the game in South Wales, but manager Bilic was content with a point from a competitive clash with the Swans.
"I want to praise the team and I want to praise the players, especially as it was a team effort," he told West Ham TV. "If you remember what I said three or four weeks ago when the injuries hit us, I said the only way we could compensate was by producing a team performance and that is exactly what we have done in the last three games.
"We defended really good as a team, apart from in the first 20 minutes when we were a little bit sloppy. After that, we were really good and I'm proud of the team.
"To be fair, with no disrespect to any player it is all about the squad and that's why we got a point, but the question is can we play much better with Carroll, without Payet, without Lanzini, without Sakho and without Moses? It's too much.
"The guys played really well and put in great effort to gain a point and that's why I am really pleased with the performance from the team."
While it was the defensive effort that caught the eye, West Ham could well have won the game with the chances they did create.
Mauro Zarate twice tested Lukasz Fabianski before half-time, before substitute Enner Valencia fired in a rasping, rising shot that the Poland goalkeeper tipped over acrobatically late on.
"OK, we played without these players and we did so against Man United and against Stoke and in every one of those games we should have scored goals," Bilic continued. "With two or three of those players back, not even all of them, I have a feeling that we would have definitely scored one or two goals per game.
"It's great for us to continue our unbeaten run. Second, it's our third straight clean sheet and third, we are expecting some of those players to come back very, very soon."
With this arguably being the most unpredictable season in Barclays Premier League history, there appear to be no 'gimmes' anywhere.
While Swansea went into Sunday's clash in the relegation zone, they also went into it with a fully-fit squad bar winger Wayne Routledge, and on the back of a fantastic performance at Manchester City last time out.
"Swansea are a good team and that's how I presented them to the guys on Saturday night. We spoke about them and they are a good side who have not been lucky enough to score goals.
"They have their qualities and they did not forget to play football. If you see them attack, of course they have a lot of quality. We defended with the whole team and, as I said, they deserve praise and this is a really good point.
"It's a great platform for when the injured players start to come back."
West Ham will now prepare for the Boxing Day trip to bottom club Aston Villa, with Bilic and his players scheduled to train on Christmas Day.
The manager had a festive message for the Claret and Blue Army ahead of the visit to Villa Park and home fixtures with Southampton and Liverpool either side of the New Year.
"Merry Christmas to all the Hammers! We are going to try to do everything to make you even happier and proud of us than you are," he smiled.
"We need you all, especially when we are short of options. We feel you all behind us, as you always are and we're going to do our best to make this Christmas period a happy on for you!"
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Swansea v West Ham
20 December 2015
Last updated at 18:40
By Dafydd Pritchard
BBC Wales Sport at the Liberty Stadium
Swansea City remain in the Premier League relegation zone after they were held by a West Ham side who recorded a third straight goalless draw. The managerless Swans dominated the first half as Ki Sung-yueng and Andre Ayew missed good chances. Jack Cork had a spectacular volley saved by Adrian after the break, while Swansea appealed in vain for a penalty for a James Collins handball. Swansea stay 18th, two points from safety, while West Ham remain eighth. The Hammers had to settle for a fifth draw from six Premier League games, but the result will have been frustrating for the Swans, who have now won only one of their last 13 league matches.
Jelavic touches
Nikica Jelavic's first start for West Ham was a frustrating one, as he was limited to three touches in the opposition penalty area
With Swansea still searching for a successor to sacked manager Garry Monk, caretaker boss Alan Curtis was in charge for a second time.
Despite losing five of their previous six games, his side started with a pace and purpose belying their lowly league standing. Swansea seemed to have recaptured their passing mastery of old but, with Ki's low drive blocked by Adrian and Ayew firing wide, they were guilty of a familiar failure to make their dominance count.
Goal-shy Hammers
While Swansea's recent poor form had led to Monk's dismissal, West Ham were enduring a wobble of their own, having failed to win their last six league games. Both their previous outings had ended 0-0, and Slaven Bilic's side lacked an attacking threat as they spent the majority of the match in their own half. The Hammers were limited to two long-range attempts at goal from Mauro Zarate, both saved by Lukasz Fabianski.
Bodies on the line
Although West Ham lacked inspiration in attack, they defended stoutly. Adrian made a fine save to push away Cork's whistling 20-yard volley, while centre-back Collins made a brave block to deny Ki. Swansea's players thought the Wales defender had handled the ball, but referee Lee Mason dismissed their protests.
Man of the match - James Collins
James Collins
The former Cardiff centre-back was kept busy by a dominant Swansea display, making numerous timely clearances and a handful of bloody-minded blocks.
What they said
Swansea City caretaker-manager Alan Curtis: "I thought we played well. In terms of the possession we looked like the kind of Swansea team we've seen over the last couple of seasons, but we possibly lacked a cutting edge up front. "We said the season started last week for us. At Manchester City we were a lot better, and that today was certainly better than the last few home games. "I don't think we are a bottom three side. We are there, but in the quality of the last two performances, whoever does come in will be confident they can lift us up the table. "For now, we have to prepare as normal. We will carry on until the chairman and the board tell us otherwise."
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic:"It's a good point for us. I want to praise my team because they showed great spirit. "It was a good collective performance. Exactly what I said when those injuries hit us big time a few weeks ago, the only way we can compensate is with teamwork."That is exactly what we've done in the last three games. Three clean sheets and three points. I really want to praise the guys."
The stats you need to know
Swansea kept a clean sheet for the first time since September in the Premier League, ending a run of 10 games without one.
West Ham have drawn three successive league games 0-0 for the first time in their history.
The last Premier League team to do that were Burnley in September 2014 (also three games).
The Swans have won none of their last seven Premier League home games at Liberty Stadium (D4 L3), failing to score in five of those matches.
West Ham have won three and lost none of their last six Premier League games against Swansea.
West Ham managed just 239 passes in total in this match, the lowest total they've mustered this campaign.
What next?
Swansea host West Brom on 26 December, with Albion just five points above the Swans, while West Ham are at bottom-of-the-table Aston Villa.
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Duo set to return for Boxing Day clash
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic is poised to welcome back two key figures to his team for the trip to Aston Villa on Boxing Day. Andy Carroll - who missed the goalless draw at Swansea on Sunday with a minor groin strain - and Manuel Lanzini, who has been out of action for a fortnight with a thigh injury are both expected to return to the first team squad in time for this weekend's Premier League clash.
That's according to co-owner David Gold, who tweeted in the early hours of this morning (Monday) to clarify the situation regarding a number of first team players currently on the injury list.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
If all goes well Carroll, Valencia and Lanzini will all be available for Villa. Sakho, Reid
Moses and Payet are all progressing well. dg
In addition to the aforementioned duo, Gold also revealed that Diafra Sakho, Winston Reid, Victor Moses and Dimitri Payet are all continuing their rehabilitation as planned - with the latter expected back during mid-January, a fortnight or so ahead of schedule.
And Enner Valencia, who wasn't considered fit enough to start against Swansea but featured instead as a second half substitute for Mauro Zarate should be fit enough to play a full 90 minutes, added Gold.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Swansea City 0-0 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League, Liberty Stadium, Sunday 20 December 2015
West Ham United were held to a record third consecutive goalless Barclays Premier League draw in a keenly fought contest at Swansea City on Sunday.
There were chances to win the game with the goalkeepers at either end being kept busy, but with Slaven Bilic's new look back four once again in imperious mood, the Swans could find no way through.
Both teams went into the game looking for their first win in seven, although the Hammers were confident defensively following consecutive shutouts against Manchester United and Stoke City in their previous two games.
The hosts also had reason to be optimistic after a much-improved performance in losing 2-1 at Manchester City last time out and they started the game brightly with Andre Ayew heading the game's first chance over Adrian's crossbar in the ninth minute.
Ki Sung-Yueng then went even closer, drilling a low shot goalwards from the angle that Adrian was forced to turn behind with his legs.
The Hammers were threatening sporadically, too, with Mauro Zarate and Mark Noble both trying their luck from distance without success. The former did better just after the half-hour mark, with a vicious, swerving effort requiring Lukasz Fabianski's to tip it round the post.
A lively first half concluded with Ayew going close five minutes before the break. He was denied as lunging tackles from a combination of Aaron Cresswell and James Collins, playing in his homeland, did enough to divert his effort into the side netting.
The second half began in more cagey fashion and the first effort on goal was not until 12 minutes after the re-start, when the lively Michail Antonio's powerful shot was deflected wide. Slaven Bilic, who had handed Nikica Jelavic his first start in place of the injured Andy Carroll in his only change, sought to liven things up by bringing on Enner Valencia for Zarate on the hour mark.
Seconds later, the game did spring to life, but at the wrong end, as Jack Cork sent a screaming volley towards Adrian's top corner from the edge of the area. Thankfully, the Spaniard was equal to it and palmed the ball round the post.
The Swans then had a good shout for a penalty after Ki's shot appeared to catch Collins' hand, but referee Lee Mason only awarded the hosts a corner.
The Hammers started to turn up the heat in the pouring rain up the other end, as Valencia announced his return from a high ankle injury with a rasping effort that Fabianski did well to tip over.
Both sides pushed for the winner but failed to create any real efforts of note. The Hammers will continue their hunt for goals with a Boxing Day trip to Aston Villa up next.
Swansea City: Fabianski, Rangel (Naughton 68), Williams, Fernandez, Taylor, Britton, Cork (Shelvey 73), Ki, Sigurdsson, Gomis, Ayew (Barrow 83)
Subs not used: Nordfeldt, Amat, Emnes, Montero
West Ham United: Adrian, Tomkins, Collins, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Song (Obiang 72), Noble, Zarate (Valencia 60), Kouyate, Antonio (Jenkinson 85), Jelavic
Subs not used: Randolph, Hendrie, Oxford, Cullen
Booked: Jenkinson (87)
Referee: Lee Mason
Attendance: 20,661 (1,025 from West Ham United)
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Reece Burke played the full game as Bradford City secured a 1-0 win away at Chesterfield. Tony McMahon's second-half strike secured the three points which takes the Bantams to eighth in League One.
Development Squad teammates Elliot Lee and Martin Samuelsen turned opponents for the afternoon as Blackpool beat Peterborough United 2-0.
Lee's Tangerines got off to a brilliant start as Mark Cullen and Brad Potts netted inside the opening 31 minutes, the win lifts Blackpool to 17th in League One.
Clarke Bogard's Tilbury FC maintained their terrific run of form with a 4-0 win over Witham Town in The Ryman Football League Division North.
Diego Poyet was an unused substitute in MK Dons' 2-1 defeat away at Nottingham Forest.
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Ladies secure festive victory
WHUFC.com
West Ham Ladies secured a festive treat as Romina Pinna's hat-trick helped the Hammers to a 4-2 win over Plymouth Argyle Ladies on Sunday.
Having not won a FA Women's Premier League South fixture since the end of October, Marc Nurse's side were on their way towards an early Christmas present when Italian winder Pinna fired the Hammers into a two-goal lead, before captain Katie Middleton pulled one back for the visitors.
In the second half, Pinna secured her hat-trick and former Millwall Lionesses midfielder Shirvae Edwards added a fourth either side of a second consolation goal for Argyle.
After last weekend's disappointing 3-1 defeat to fellow strugglers Queens Park Rangers Ladies, Nurse made five changes to the starting eleven. Indian international Aditi Chauhan returned between the sticks, whilst Chelsea Hinz and Olivia Sammons lined up in the home defence.
Further forward, Development Squad midfielder Gemma Abela came into the midfield and lightning quick Whitney Locke replaced Erika Campesi on the wing.
In the early stages of the game, the hosts looked confident of ending 2015 on a high as Pinna, Edwards and Locke began causing the visiting defence all sorts of problems.
It took West Ham just 12 minutes to push themselves ahead. After captain Katie Bottom was tripped inside the penalty box, Pinna stepped up and confidently dispatched her second goal is as many games.
Then, just before the half an hour mark, a threaded ball through from Edwards found Pinna in behind and she extended the hosts' lead.
It wasn't all plain sailing in the first half for Nurse's team though as Middleton found enough space inside the Hammers penalty box to smash home a goal through Chauhan.
After the break, both sides battled it out for the next and probably most important goal of the game, which came with just nine minutes left as Pinna broke through the Argyle defence and rounded the keeper before slotting into an empty net for her hat-trick.
Just a minute later though, Plymouth pulled a goal back and installed a small amount of worry to the home side, before Edwards tapped home from close range to rubber-stamp the result for West Ham.
The Ladies will now rest and relax over the Christmas period, before returning to training to prepare for the visit of Cardiff City LFC to AFC Hornchurch on Sunday 3 January at 2pm.
Ladies: Chauhan, Bottom (c), Wheeler, Hinz (Missen), Sammons, Ray, Abela (Ritson), Miller (Campesi), Locke, Edwards, Pinna. Subs not used: Anderson-James.
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Adrian – We need three points at Villa
WHUFC.com
Goalkeeper Adrian is already targeting three Barclays Premier League points at Aston Villa on Boxing Day, after keeping a third successive clean sheet in Sunday's goalless draw at Swansea City. In torrential rain at the Liberty Stadium, the Spaniard was only called upon intermittently, but, just as he did against Stoke City a week earlier, made vital saves at pivotal moments. The Hammers' custodian saved with his feet from Ki Sung-Yueng in the first half, before clawing away Jack Cork's rasping drive in the second. Though he is rightly content with another shutout, the No13 called upon his colleagues to end their winless streak at Villa Park next time out. He told whufc.com: "We need to be happy, because a point away from home is good. But we really need to win already! "We're missing so many offensive players at the moment, like Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini and Diafra Sakho, so we are not so fresh in attack. So the most important thing is that we're defending very well, not just me, all the team. "The next game, at Villa, they are in a tough position now, so we need to go there and win the three points. "The Premier League is so difficult. You see the results each weekend and you're surprised with some results. At the end of the day, it's one more clean sheet, one more point for us and we need to prepare to win at Villa."
Unsurprisingly, Adrian reserved special mention for James Collins, who put his body on the line on umpteen occasions to preserve the visitors' clean sheet. And, as he tends to do, the Spaniard played down his own contribution, significant though it obviously was.
He continued: "Ginge played very well on Sunday, he made some very good blocks and helped us a lot in defence, together with Angelo Ogbonna, Aaron Cresswell and James Tomkins. "I am the goalkeeper and I always try to help my teammates. I always need to do my best and to keep a clean sheet is really important for me. "This time I was lucky enough to save some Swansea chances. I thought both goalkeepers did well, Lukasz Fabianski made a couple of good saves too, particularly the one from Enner Valencia. "We need to keep this same mentality, stay positive, because we're defending well and to improve that little bit in attack next time."
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Cresswell hails 'warrior' Collins
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell hailed 'warrior' James Collins after the Wales defender put in a typically selfless performance at Swansea City.
Collins ended the afternoon with a large bump on his head and most likely a few bruises after blocking a succession of Swansea shots to help earn his side a goalless Barclays Premier League draw.
Cresswell had a grandstand view of the No19's all-action display and could not hide his respect for his teammate's resilient display.
"You know what you're getting with Ginge – he'll give you 110 per cent week-in, week-out," said the left-back. "He has been fantastic for us when he has stepped in and I thought he was fantastic and arguably our best player. He's a warrior at the back."
West Ham were held to a record third straight goalless Premier League draw at the Liberty Stadium, where injuries to key attackers left Slaven Bilic without Dimitri Payet, Manuel Lanzini, Andy Carroll, Victor Moses, Diafra Sakho and also centre-half Winston Reid.
While there was some frustration that the Hammers were unable to overcome a Swansea team which started the day in the relegation zone, Cresswell was keen to point out that there are no easy games in the top flight this season.
"It was obviously a tough game. Most teams will take a point coming away from home in the Premier League and if you'd said to us at the start of the season that we'd draw at Manchester United and Swansea, I think we'd have taken it.
"In a way, we're disappointed as well. Don't get me wrong, they've had chances as well, but we've kept three clean sheets in the last three games, which is a positive, so we'll take the positives and we'll move on to the next one.
"We've had a few chances in the last few games and we just need to take a few of them. We'll just get ourselves together again and prepared for Aston Villa next week.
"It just shows you the squad we have got this season has real depth. Dimi and Manu have arguably been our two main players this season, so we're looking forward to them coming back, but we've got a good squad here and got a good point in the end."
Next up for Cresswell and company is a Boxing Day trip to bottom side Aston Villa on Boxing Day, when the Hammers will be confident of ending their seven-match winless run.
The No3 revealed the squad will be training on Christmas Day before travelling to Birmingham, ensuring no stone is left unturned in their preparations.
"We are going to prepare ourselves the best we can for the fixtures we've got coming up over the next ten days or so. It's hard when you've got to play three games in seven days, but we won't use that as an excuse.
"We're going to be prepared and ready for those three games. We've got to be professional and it's part and parcel of the job and we've just got to get on with it.
"To be fair, I've always trained on Christmas Day every year apart from last year, and we'll get on with it and prepare as best we can.
"You can't go into any game thinking it's going to be an easy three points, even if you're one of the top teams. The league has been crazy this year and you can see anyone can beat anyone.
"We're fully aware that it's not going to be an easy ride so we're going to prepare for Villa and do the best we can."
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Bilic - We defended really good
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic hailed the 'team effort' which earned West Ham United a hard-fought Barclays Premier League point at Swansea City.
The Hammers defended superbly at the Liberty Stadium, where they secured a record-setting third straight goalless draw.
With six senior players, including five attackers, absent, West Ham could even have won the game in South Wales, but manager Bilic was content with a point from a competitive clash with the Swans.
"I want to praise the team and I want to praise the players, especially as it was a team effort," he told West Ham TV. "If you remember what I said three or four weeks ago when the injuries hit us, I said the only way we could compensate was by producing a team performance and that is exactly what we have done in the last three games.
"We defended really good as a team, apart from in the first 20 minutes when we were a little bit sloppy. After that, we were really good and I'm proud of the team.
"To be fair, with no disrespect to any player it is all about the squad and that's why we got a point, but the question is can we play much better with Carroll, without Payet, without Lanzini, without Sakho and without Moses? It's too much.
"The guys played really well and put in great effort to gain a point and that's why I am really pleased with the performance from the team."
While it was the defensive effort that caught the eye, West Ham could well have won the game with the chances they did create.
Mauro Zarate twice tested Lukasz Fabianski before half-time, before substitute Enner Valencia fired in a rasping, rising shot that the Poland goalkeeper tipped over acrobatically late on.
"OK, we played without these players and we did so against Man United and against Stoke and in every one of those games we should have scored goals," Bilic continued. "With two or three of those players back, not even all of them, I have a feeling that we would have definitely scored one or two goals per game.
"It's great for us to continue our unbeaten run. Second, it's our third straight clean sheet and third, we are expecting some of those players to come back very, very soon."
With this arguably being the most unpredictable season in Barclays Premier League history, there appear to be no 'gimmes' anywhere.
While Swansea went into Sunday's clash in the relegation zone, they also went into it with a fully-fit squad bar winger Wayne Routledge, and on the back of a fantastic performance at Manchester City last time out.
"Swansea are a good team and that's how I presented them to the guys on Saturday night. We spoke about them and they are a good side who have not been lucky enough to score goals.
"They have their qualities and they did not forget to play football. If you see them attack, of course they have a lot of quality. We defended with the whole team and, as I said, they deserve praise and this is a really good point.
"It's a great platform for when the injured players start to come back."
West Ham will now prepare for the Boxing Day trip to bottom club Aston Villa, with Bilic and his players scheduled to train on Christmas Day.
The manager had a festive message for the Claret and Blue Army ahead of the visit to Villa Park and home fixtures with Southampton and Liverpool either side of the New Year.
"Merry Christmas to all the Hammers! We are going to try to do everything to make you even happier and proud of us than you are," he smiled.
"We need you all, especially when we are short of options. We feel you all behind us, as you always are and we're going to do our best to make this Christmas period a happy on for you!"
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Swansea v West Ham
20 December 2015
Last updated at 18:40
By Dafydd Pritchard
BBC Wales Sport at the Liberty Stadium
Swansea City remain in the Premier League relegation zone after they were held by a West Ham side who recorded a third straight goalless draw. The managerless Swans dominated the first half as Ki Sung-yueng and Andre Ayew missed good chances. Jack Cork had a spectacular volley saved by Adrian after the break, while Swansea appealed in vain for a penalty for a James Collins handball. Swansea stay 18th, two points from safety, while West Ham remain eighth. The Hammers had to settle for a fifth draw from six Premier League games, but the result will have been frustrating for the Swans, who have now won only one of their last 13 league matches.
Jelavic touches
Nikica Jelavic's first start for West Ham was a frustrating one, as he was limited to three touches in the opposition penalty area
With Swansea still searching for a successor to sacked manager Garry Monk, caretaker boss Alan Curtis was in charge for a second time.
Despite losing five of their previous six games, his side started with a pace and purpose belying their lowly league standing. Swansea seemed to have recaptured their passing mastery of old but, with Ki's low drive blocked by Adrian and Ayew firing wide, they were guilty of a familiar failure to make their dominance count.
Goal-shy Hammers
While Swansea's recent poor form had led to Monk's dismissal, West Ham were enduring a wobble of their own, having failed to win their last six league games. Both their previous outings had ended 0-0, and Slaven Bilic's side lacked an attacking threat as they spent the majority of the match in their own half. The Hammers were limited to two long-range attempts at goal from Mauro Zarate, both saved by Lukasz Fabianski.
Bodies on the line
Although West Ham lacked inspiration in attack, they defended stoutly. Adrian made a fine save to push away Cork's whistling 20-yard volley, while centre-back Collins made a brave block to deny Ki. Swansea's players thought the Wales defender had handled the ball, but referee Lee Mason dismissed their protests.
Man of the match - James Collins
James Collins
The former Cardiff centre-back was kept busy by a dominant Swansea display, making numerous timely clearances and a handful of bloody-minded blocks.
What they said
Swansea City caretaker-manager Alan Curtis: "I thought we played well. In terms of the possession we looked like the kind of Swansea team we've seen over the last couple of seasons, but we possibly lacked a cutting edge up front. "We said the season started last week for us. At Manchester City we were a lot better, and that today was certainly better than the last few home games. "I don't think we are a bottom three side. We are there, but in the quality of the last two performances, whoever does come in will be confident they can lift us up the table. "For now, we have to prepare as normal. We will carry on until the chairman and the board tell us otherwise."
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic:"It's a good point for us. I want to praise my team because they showed great spirit. "It was a good collective performance. Exactly what I said when those injuries hit us big time a few weeks ago, the only way we can compensate is with teamwork."That is exactly what we've done in the last three games. Three clean sheets and three points. I really want to praise the guys."
The stats you need to know
Swansea kept a clean sheet for the first time since September in the Premier League, ending a run of 10 games without one.
West Ham have drawn three successive league games 0-0 for the first time in their history.
The last Premier League team to do that were Burnley in September 2014 (also three games).
The Swans have won none of their last seven Premier League home games at Liberty Stadium (D4 L3), failing to score in five of those matches.
West Ham have won three and lost none of their last six Premier League games against Swansea.
West Ham managed just 239 passes in total in this match, the lowest total they've mustered this campaign.
What next?
Swansea host West Brom on 26 December, with Albion just five points above the Swans, while West Ham are at bottom-of-the-table Aston Villa.
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Duo set to return for Boxing Day clash
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st December 2015
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic is poised to welcome back two key figures to his team for the trip to Aston Villa on Boxing Day. Andy Carroll - who missed the goalless draw at Swansea on Sunday with a minor groin strain - and Manuel Lanzini, who has been out of action for a fortnight with a thigh injury are both expected to return to the first team squad in time for this weekend's Premier League clash.
That's according to co-owner David Gold, who tweeted in the early hours of this morning (Monday) to clarify the situation regarding a number of first team players currently on the injury list.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
If all goes well Carroll, Valencia and Lanzini will all be available for Villa. Sakho, Reid
Moses and Payet are all progressing well. dg
In addition to the aforementioned duo, Gold also revealed that Diafra Sakho, Winston Reid, Victor Moses and Dimitri Payet are all continuing their rehabilitation as planned - with the latter expected back during mid-January, a fortnight or so ahead of schedule.
And Enner Valencia, who wasn't considered fit enough to start against Swansea but featured instead as a second half substitute for Mauro Zarate should be fit enough to play a full 90 minutes, added Gold.
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