Thursday, January 21

Daily WHUFC News - Slaven speaks Man City

Slaven Speaks - Man City

WHUFC.com

 

Slaven Bilic has faced the media ahead of Saturday’s game against Manchester City. The Gaffer spoke at length about his new signing Sam Byram, other potential January targets and team news ahead of the visit of the Citizens.

Sam Byram first of all. Tell us what you see in him and what he’ll bring to the team?

SB: “It’s a good buy for us. He is a young player, he’s English, he’s home-grown, very young but with the experience of playing in the Championship. We are planning for the next season, and he has been on our radar for a long time. To be fair it was more of a plan for next season, but it is good to have him now.”

 

How did the deal come together, because Everton thought they were pretty close to signing him, but you moved in very quickly…

SB: “We didn’t react on Everton. We had been tracking him for a long time, and it wasn’t only Everton, there were a few other clubs who wanted him. At the end, we didn’t jump in after we heard some other clubs were interested in him. According to the television and all that he was quite close to signing for Everton, but we knew we had a good chance and we’re delighted that he came to us.”

He said he was persuaded by what you said to him – can you give us a flavour of what was said?

SB: “I told him that I like young players and I told him my opinion about him and about in which areas he can and should improve. He liked it and I didn’t promise him anything, but what he really liked is that he found out we were watching him for a long time and he realised we were serious about him and had big plans for him. It’s up to him to show us in training and in games his improvement and he wants to be a part of our big project. It was a simple talk and after he talk he decided to join us."

 

At what point might you introduce him to the first team?

SB: “I will be open and say that he was more for us for the next season, because we have Carl Jenkinson, who is on loan from Arsenal and at the start of the season they said this is the last year they will give him to us.  Then we started to look who could fill that gap for us. We have Tomkins there, we have Joey O’Brien, who is a long time injured, and we lost a few players from last season like Guy Demel so we did it [signed Byram]. He has come now and it is only a plus for now, but I can’t tell you now when he is going to play.”

About ten days left before the window closes. Are you looking for a striker still?

SB: “Yes, but not big time. We are not panicking, we have a couple of players injured still, but both should be fit early or mid-February. On the other hand there are a couple of players who may leave the Club – maybe Zarate maybe Jelavic, and if that happens we will try to get one striker.”

How are you looking for team news on Saturday?

SB: “Joey O’Brien is back. He has been through a lot of setbacks regarding his injuries and I’m glad for him that he will join us on Thursday. Hopefully he will be fit for the long term now. James Tomkins has a small injury from the game against Newcastle. He is going to train individually on Thursday and will join us in training on Friday so we will see if he is available.  All the others are good, apart from Sakho, Carroll and Lanzini. They are still out, but are recovering ahead of schedule."

 

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

 

 

Daily WHUFC News - 21st January 2016

Joint-Chairman thrilled with Byram signing
WHUFC.com

West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is thrilled to have secured
the signing of talented full-back Sam Byram and believes he has the quality
to break into the England squad over the next few years. Byram has been
earning rave reviews playing for Leeds in the Championship and attracted
interest from a number of Premier League clubs. But the Hammers won the race
to clinch his signature on a four-and-a-half year deal and Sullivan is
confident the versatile player will be a major success with the east London
Club. Sullivan said: "He has been bought for the future and long term he
could well be an English international. "He is a utility player who can play
anywhere down the right hand side and when played in a forward position he
can score goals. He has already scored three times for Leeds this season.
"He is still young and is improving all the time. His uncle and cousins are
West Ham United season ticket holders. "We had planned to sign him in the
Summer, but we were forced to move sooner as it was clear that Everton had
agreed terms with Leeds to sign him."

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From the Terraces - Joe Difford
WHUFC.com

Fan blogger Joe Difford looks back at Saturday's defeat against Newcastle…

After eight magnificent games unbeaten, Slaven Bilic's West Ham slumped to a
defeat at St James' Park, against a Newcastle side who were desperate for a
win. A slow start allowed Ayoze Perez and Georginio Wijnaldum to score two
much needed goals and West Ham, who were playing their second away game in
four days, the other being at the opposite end of the country, slumped to a
defeat. With the absence of the injured Andy Carroll, Dimitri Payet was
forced out wide, where he struggled to make an impact, having to track back
too much rather than start counter attacks. It was a chilly afternoon in the
north of England, and Slaven's men looked frozen solid for the first two
goals, although Jonjo Shelvey's instant impact in a black and white shirt
cannot be overlooked. The pass for the second in particular was perfect,
flying over the head of Aaron Cresswell, allowing the cross to come in for
Wijnaldum to poke home with ease. Shelvey was pulling all the strings in the
opening 45, but was rather lucky to remain on the field after clashing with
Enner Valencia off the ball.
West Ham were on a rare attack, when the Ecuadorian striker dropped to the
floor, replays suggesting that the England midfielder had raised his elbow
to Valencia's face off the ball, but the officials missed the incident.
Regardless, the first half was a disappointing performance, but Bilic's
midpoint team talk much have worked wonders. The visitors flew out of the
tunnel for the second half, with Nikica Jelavic coming on and immediately
making an impact, netting his second goal of the season. It was a real
poacher's effort from the man who has struggled for game time since arriving
from Hull City, but this sort of clinical performance could be key with
Carroll and Diafra Sakho out injured for the coming weeks. Adrian denied
Aleksandar Mitrovic on three occasions, with the Spanish shot-stopper the
best player in claret and blue on the pitch (not literally, of course). We
could have snatched a point at the death, with Rob Elliot's knee denying
Cheikhou Kouyate's header in the 90th minute.
It might have been a frustrating and lacklustre loss, but you can't go
unbeaten forever, and after eight games without a loss, Saturday's result
doesn't spell the end of the season.
Newcastle have finally climbed out of the relegation zone, whilst West Ham
sit sixth, just outside the Champions League places. Next up is the visit of
Manchester City, who are on terrific form now that Sergio Aguero is back in
action, the Argentine scoring a brace at the weekend. But Victor Moses is
also expected to return and of course he scored the opening goal in our 2-1
win at the Etihad earlier in the season. Saturday's loss against Newcastle
certainly wasn't ideal, but our magnificent away record is still intact, and
we have a good enough squad to pick ourselves up and cause yet another upset
against City this weekend. 35 points in 22 games is a great return for a
side with a new manager and many new signings, and if we continue as we have
started in 2016, we could have a wonderful start to life in the Olympic
Stadium.

For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com

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From the Treatment Room
WHUFc.com

Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke with his latest
update – in association with Spire Roding Hospital...

Hello everyone,

First of all I would like to welcome Sam Byram to West Ham United. January
is always a busy time for the Medical and Sports Science Departments at
every club, but this was our first signing of the transfer window and any
time you bring a new player into the Club it is exciting. Sam underwent his
medical at Spire Roding Hospital – the Club's Official Private Hospital –
where we screened him from top to bottom. He is a young athlete and is in
good condition.

Injury-wise, we picked up a couple of minor knocks at Newcastle United last
weekend but we hope to recover the players affected for the next game
against Manchester City on Saturday.

Andy Carroll is making good progress after suffering a hamstring injury at
Bournemouth last week and has started running. We hope to have him available
for the manager again on schedule, four weeks after he suffered the initial
injury, by the middle of February.

Manuel Lanzini is going well with his rehab after suffering a thigh injury
against Liverpool just after Christmas. He is recovering well and we hope to
have him back available in February.

Finally, Diafra Sakho was involved in a minor car accident this week. The
Club doctor gave him a thorough check-up and we are pleased that he did not
suffer any new injuries in this accident. Diafra did not miss a day of his
rehab from the thigh injury he suffered in the game against West Bromwich
Albion and is on course to return in February.

Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science

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Byram - I cannot wait to see the new Stadium
WHUFc.com

West Ham United's new signing Sam Byram is already dreaming of playing in
the new Stadium next season and would love the chance to help the Hammers
qualify for the Champions League. Slaven Bilic's side are currently in the
top six and have already shown they can compete against the best teams in
the Premier League this season. Byram plans to visit the new Stadium in the
near future and says he is relishing the chance to play in front of 50,000
fans every home game. Byram said: "To play in a stadium of that size is huge
for the club and it did make a big impact on me. I cannot wait to have a
look around it. "I have heard they have already sold a lot of season-tickets
and if they can get the near full capacity it will be unbelievable. "As
players everyone is ambitious and you want to play in the best leagues you
can. The Champions League is the highest of what you can achieve, so to be
joining a club who has a chance of getting in there is brilliant. "It will
be a dream for me to play my first game for West Ham. As a child you dream
of playing in the Premier League and you watch Match of the Day, but now I
have the chance to make that possible."

Byram will already have two massive fans when the club makes a historic move
during the summer as his family are beloved West Ham fans and have already
bought their tickets at the new venue. "My Uncle and cousin have already
bought their season-tickets for the new Stadium and it makes it easier for
me knowing they are supporting me. "I asked my cousin what it was like at
West Ham and he only had good things to say so I am really looking forward
to it."

Byram reveals the chance to work with Slaven Bilic was also a big factor in
him choosing the Hammers and he is confident the West Ham United manager
will make him an even better player in the top flight. "Slaven was a big
impact on me coming to the club. He was a defender during his career so I am
sure he will be able to help me with my development. "You always want to
improve as a player so for me to work with Slaven and his backroom staff is
only going to make me better."

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View on the Signing – Sam Byram
WHUFc.com

Yorkshire Evening Post's chief football writer Phil Hay gives us the lowdown
on new recruit Sam Byram

What has been the general reaction from Leeds' fans to Sam Byram's
departure?

"Sam is held in very high regard with the United fans. As an academy
graduate, he has a special connection with the fans. He's a very talented
player, one of Leeds' best in recent years. "At the same time, they are not
too surprised to see him leave. It's been a trend for a long time that there
best players move on; James Milner, Jonny Howson, Fabien Delph and Robert
Snodgrass, and unfortunately given the position they are in, it doesn't seem
like it will change any time soon. "It was no secret that his contract was
running out so it was only a matter of time really, either now in January or
in the summer."

There was a lot of interest in Byram's signature, particularly from Everton.
Do you think he's made the right decision in coming to West Ham?

"Yes, I think it's a really good move for him. Given where West Ham are now
they won't be back in the Championship any time soon. It's obviously a great
time to join West Ham with the upcoming move to the Olympic Stadium so I
think that'll be a great help attracting new players. "With Everton, Seamus
Coleman is clearly established at right-back, one of the best in the League
so it would be hard to dislodge him. Whereas Carl Jenkinson is on loan and
James Tomkins has filled in at right-back so there's probably more chance of
first team football."

What are his key attributes? What can Hammers' fans look forward to seeing?

"He's great in the air, loves to keep it on the floor and can whip in a
great delivery. He doesn't score many but he's a surprisingly good finisher
as well." "I also think Sam will do very well under Slaven Bilic, he will
suit the style Bilic likes to play well. He's great going forward, which is
why Leeds played him as a winger, but he's certainly best at right-back."

Off the field, what's he like to work with?

"He's a great lad, he's extremely likeable. Everyone who you speak to at the
Club has a very high opinion of him. All the academy coaches say he's very
down to earth, and a joy to work with. You can tell he carries himself very
well, and media wise he's a good talker."

He's still a very young player with a lot of experience already. How much
potential does he have?

"He's a very talented player who I'm sure will do very well in the Premier
League. Fabien Delph was probably the most naturally gifted player I've seen
at Leeds in the last ten years; James Milner was also very special. Sam
works incredibly hard and is different to those two, he's got everything you
need to excel at the top level for years to come."

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Sam Byram joins West Ham from Leeds United
BBC.co.uk

West Ham have signed full-back Sam Byram from Leeds United for an
undisclosed fee. The 22-year-old had been in talks with Everton, but has
instead signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Hammers. "I'm
unbelievably proud and happy to join a club as big as this," said Essex-born
Byram, who turned down a new contract with Leeds. "I'm just looking forward
to what the future holds and hopefully I can achieve things with the team."
Byram joined the Leeds academy set-up at the age of 11 and made his
professional debut in August 2012. He leaves Elland Road after making 143
appearances and scoring 10 goals. "I spoke to the manager and he is one of
the main reasons which attracted me to West Ham," Byram said of Hammers boss
Slaven Bilic. "I think he's done unbelievably well with his team so far, so
I'm really looking forward to working with him and his staff. "My uncle and
my cousin are big West Ham fans and have bought their tickets for the new
stadium. My uncle was down here yesterday getting a shirt with my name on
the back."

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Zarate set for Serie A move
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 20th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

Mauro Zarate is poised to complete a move to Italy's Serie A later this
week, KUMB understands. The Argentine striker has become increasingly
disillusioned with life at West Ham since falling down the pecking order and
recently indicated his desire to move to a club who can guarantee him
regular first team football. And Zarate looks set to have his wish granted
within the next few days after West Ham and Fiorentina reached an agreement
regarding a permanent deal for the 28-year-old forward. Although the fee
involved remains undisclosed at present, West Ham will make a profit on a
player who was signed on a free transfer from Vélez Sarsfield in the summer
of 2014. Since then Zarate has made 29 appearances for the Hammers having
also spent four months on loan at Queens Park Rangers in the second half of
last season (2014/15).

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Jack Sullivan: My best 11 of the last 6 years!
January 19, 2016
WestHamWay.co.uk
Jack Sullivan
Bit of a different Column today ....

Ex has asked me if I could do my best 11 since I've been at the club. My
Dad bought the club almost six years ago, which I think was arguably the
biggest day of his life. It was always a dream for him to buy West Ham, he
had owned a large percentage in the past and finally in 2010, after selling
Birmingham and saying he wanted a year off, it took him less then two months
and jumped at the opportunity to own his childhood club!

Anyway I'm supposed to be telling you my best 11. I'm still not sure if
I've picked the right team, manger or formation. I hope you agree with me
but feel free to tweet me or the way's twitter with your own.

My manager so far would be Slav, someone the fans have been after for a
while and I hope Slav will be with us for a long time. At the same time,
football is an ever changing game and a result business, but what I've seen
so far is a manger that loves the game and is very passionate for it. For
me his most important quality is his honesty, which personally I find
refreshing and something we haven't alway had before…not naming names. He
has also masterminded some great games with some tactical masterclasses,
showing his real belief in the team! People may be surprised that I also
considered Grant and Big Sam, in their own way they are both very good
mangers at what they do. Grant is a lovely man and I believe is a cup
manger. If you look at his record he got Chelsea to the Champions League
final, he also got Ghana to the final of the African Cup of Nations and us
to the semi final of the cup. Big Sam has a great talent at getting points
on the board and has many strengths, but I believe with the squad I'm
picking the right man for the job is Bilic!

During the past six years I've seen goalkeepers from Boffin to Green to
Adrian. Personally I think the best goalkeeper is Adrian, some of the saves
he makes are out of this world. I also believe he's still improving on
area's of the game and the best is still to come. I also love his
personality and his passion on and off the pitch, I believe he's the only
keeper in the BPL that would do kick-ups against Liverpool or throw his
gloves on the floor and smash a pen into the corner.

My left-back can only be one person - Cresswell, hammer of the year in his
first season. I believe he has got everything of a modern full-back, he's
defensive game has really improved and he's attacking game is second to
none. He can cross and has got a hell of a shot on him given a chance. For
me he's very close to an England call-up and may be going to the Euro's if
he play's his cards right.

The centre-back position was a real hard of for me, I believe that the best
centre-backs are the ones we have now. I would personally pick Reid who has
been at the club for many years and most of my time at West Ham. Reid maybe
should have been given more of a chance the year we went down, but from then
he has really made the number 2 shirt his own and been a real beast on the
pitch. Man United this season really symbolised his time at West Ham, he
has always been the rock at the back, even in the championship days. The
second centre-half is between Pogatez, Johnson or Collins. I've picked
Collins, but this may change at the end of this season, as I've just not
seen enough of Reid and Ogbonna play together. I've picked Collins as he is
the only person I've seen stop Suarez, he may not be the prettiest defender
but he gets the job done and done very well. I believe per game there is no
defender that blocks more shots on goal. Tomkins is someone I haven't
mentioned but I also feel isn't too far away from an England call-up. I'm
not sure anymore what his best position is, as his filled in at right-back
so well.

At right-back I'm going to pick Demel, someone who could defend but also get
up the line. I remember when him, Diame and Vaz Te used to play one and two
touch football down the line, with the odd trick throw in there too. Jenko
was almost picked after a great year with us last season but has just missed
out. I hope this may change in the near future as even though I miss Demel,
I feel Tomkins or 'our mystery signing' can hopefully follow in his
footsteps.

The midfield for me is by far the hardest place to pick, as I couldn't tell
you our best midfield this season! I'm going to pick Parker, Kouyate and
Song. I'm not sure if I have picked the best midfield, as I feel players
like Diame and Noble should possibly be involved. Parker was fantastic at
West Ham but sadly moved on, he was a leader and also got stuck in! He had
a great shot on him as shown against Wigan and Chelsea. Kouyate for me is
one of the most underrated players in our team, someone who runs and runs,
tackles and can also be an attacking threat. He's 6ft 4 which makes him
even more of a monster and a real challenge for anyone to get past. For me
Song's first 6 months with us was as good as Payet's. The way he moved the
ball really got the team playing, sadly since his injury he has struggled to
find that form, but I'm sure its still in there somewhere.

My two inside forwards are Payet and Lanzini, both two new additions and
what great additions they have been for us. Payet has been real class and
is better than Zidane and Ozil. He skills are unreal and very much like
Lanzini, he almost never loses the ball. Both of their feet are lightening,
with both also having more strength than expected. I think everyone would
agree they both carry real class.

Lastly the striker… Demba Ba! It has to be, he was someone I will never
forget and someone always welcomed back at anytime. Ba has pace, power and
real quality, I can see why he ended up at Chelsea as he was a real player!

I'm pretty sure this team would be a real hard one to beat, with a bit of
everything in it, yet as I said in my tweet today the best is yet to come!!!
COYI

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ExWHUEmployee another Transfer Exclusive: Emmanuel Emenike to join
January 19, 2016
WestHamWay.co.uk
ExWHUEmployee

We can exclusively reveal that the forward that I first mentioned in my
column yesterday and DS hinted at us signing today is Emmanuel Emenike. The
Nigerian forward is 28 and currently contracted to Fenerbache where Slaven
Bilic knew him well. He has been on loan at Al Ain in Dubai but this loan
was cut short this week. Emenike has commanded a number of large transfer
fees in his career and almost averages a goal every other game. His agent
met with David Sullivan this week to iron out the terms of a loan move with
an option to buy at the end of the season. The club hope to complete the
deal by Friday if all goes to plan. This is an exciting prospect and one
who will entertain the fans!

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Sam Byram completes transfer to West Ham from Leeds United
By Jefferson Lake
Last Updated: 20/01/16 7:19pm
SSN

West Ham have completed the signing of Leeds United full-back Sam Byram on a
four-and-a-half year contract. The 22-year-old has moved for an undisclosed
fee, following several days of negotiations between the clubs. "I'm
unbelievably proud and happy to join a club as big as this," said Byram, who
will wear the No 22 shirt at Upton Park. "I'm just looking forward to what
the future holds and hopefully I can achieve things with the team going
forward. "It's a childhood dream of mine to play in the Premier League, so
to have the chance to get into a team like this, I just want to get my head
down, work hard and hopefully get a chance. "I spoke to the manager and he
is one of the main reasons which attracted me to West Ham. I think he's done
unbelievably well with his team so far, so I'm really looking forward to
working with him and his staff. "My uncle and my cousin are big West Ham
fans and have bought their tickets for the new stadium. My uncle was down
here yesterday getting a shirt with my name on the back. It's nice to have
them down here and they'll help me settle so I'm looking forward to seeing
them. "I'm also really looking forward to seeing the new stadium in person.
That was another big part in me wanting to come here. It's a massive part of
the future of the club and I can't wait to see and hopefully play in it."

Everton had been in the running to sign Byram but dropped their interest in
the 22-year-old despite agreeing a fee with Leeds, leaving West Ham in pole
position.

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Sam Byram has left Leeds for West Ham - so can he cut it in Premier League?
By Adam Bate and Charlotte Marsh
Last Updated: 20/01/16 7:28pm
SSN

Sam Byram has left Leeds for West Ham but can he cut it in the division
above? With the help of former coach Brian McDermott and most recent boss
Steve Evans, Adam Bate takes a look at his Premier League potential… Byram
signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Hammers on Wednesday after
several days of negotiations between the clubs. A switch from Yorkshire to
east London ends months of speculation over the future of the promising
full-back, whose Leeds contract was due to expire in the summer and whom
Elland Road chief Massimo Cellino had admitted he planned to sell.

But what are West Ham - who beat Everton to the full-back's signature -
likely to get for their £3.7m?
Leeds boss Evans - speaking to Sky Sports shortly before the deal was done -
gave a revealing insight into the 22-year-old's credentials on and off the
field. "Four Premier League managers have asked me about him, mostly about
his character and what he's like off the pitch," Evans says. "I couldn't
have given them more glowing references than I already have. He really is
such a fantastic young professional. "He's first in the building and he's
the last out. On days off, he comes in and he makes sure his recovery is
right. He's always with the staff stretching and being prepared for training
and when he trains, he trains with real intensity and real quality so I'm
not surprised that people want to take him."

Brian McDermott - now Reading boss - was Byram's manager for over a year and
the first of Cellino's six Leeds managers. He has nothing but praise for the
player's attitude, calling him "a terrific character" and a "really nice
lad" - but is he good enough for the Premier League?

McDermott's thoughts are obvious as soon as he begins to recollect his first
sight of Byram in action. "The first game after I was appointed was against
Sheffield Wednesday and he was playing," he tells Sky Sports. "I hadn't seen
him play live before and after about 20 minutes the ball came out of the
sky, he chested it down and played this terrific ball out wide. I turned
around to Neil Redfearn and asked, 'Who's that?!'"

Evans has similar memories of his first encounter with Byram, albeit ones
coloured by the overhanging contract situation. "When we first came in, we
found a young man who wasn't quite sure what was happening," he says. "But
we got him in and focused him and made it clear that, whatever happens, we
needed him to get back on the training ground and work hard, play hard and
get back to showing the class that he's shown in the last couple of years in
the Championship."

The response was typically swift. "It was like a duck to water," adds Evans.
"From the first minute we watched him train, me and my staff hadn't seen him
at that close quarters before and we immediately saw what a gifted young lad
he is.

"He can pick a pass, he can score a goal, he can take balls in difficult
areas. His passing with both feet is technically very good, and his
awareness of the game around him and his game management is, for such a
young age, outstanding. He is going to play in the Premier League."

Only Stuart Dallas (30) has created as many chances for Leeds this season as
Sam Byram (25). While McDermott echoes those sentiments, he feels Byram
needs to play in his best position in order to fulfil his potential.
Although he has enjoyed recent success on the right of midfield, his former
boss is adamant that his long-term future should lie within a back-four. He
wants to be a right-back and he needs to be judged as a right-back.

Brian McDermott on Sam Byram : "You've got to give him a chance because he's
still quite inexperienced," adds McDermott. "It's hard for him because he's
playing right-wing or wherever he's playing and he's a right-back. He wants
to be a right-back and he needs to be judged as a right-back because he's
not a right-winger."

Evans had repeatedly encouraged Byram to commit and, before his next move
was sealed, admitted he hoped Byram would be given sufficient game-time to
develop. "The grass isn't always greener somewhere else," Evans said. "I
think if he goes, and it is if he goes, he'll have to see a real progression
plan for himself. "I don't think it enhances him at all to go and sit on the
bench for six months. I'm not saying he's going to start on the first
Saturday after he signs but he'd be needing to see a career plan to the
first team." "He has been bought for the future and long term he could well
be an English international," said West Ham joint-chairman David Sullivan of
his new signing. How far Byram goes remains to be seen. But it's clear the
men who have managed him are convinced that this is a young player with the
temperament and the talent to make the most of whatever opportunity comes
his way.

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West Ham in loan bid for Emmanuel Emenike - Sky sources
By Paul Vinnell
Last Updated: 20/01/16 1:19pm
SSN

West Ham have made a bid to take Fenerbahce striker Emmanuel Emenike on loan
for the rest of the season, according to Sky sources. Emenike, 28, has been
playing on loan in Dubai for Al Ain, and West Ham boss Slaven Bilic knows
they player from his time in Turkey as Besiktas boss. Hammers co-owner David
Sullivan told Sky Sports News HQ on Tuesday that the club was interested in
a striker who had been playing in a "strange" league. The move for the
Nigeria international would need the agreement of Fenerbahce and Al Ain.
Sullivan told SSN HQ: "We are looking, long-term, for a 20-goal-a-season
striker. "There's a possibility that a striker will come in on loan in the
next seven days, with the option to buy him. He's an overseas striker. "If I
told you, you wouldn't believe it. I can't tell you which league because
then you'll know exactly who it is. "We are signing from a very strange
league. But he has played in higher leagues."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
BYRAM SIGNS, BUT I'M NOT SO SURE ABOUT EMENIKE
By S J Chandos 20 Jan 2016 at 14:24
WTID

BREAKING: As the above picture below demonstrates, Sam Byram is official!


I always had a feeling that the 'no incoming transfer business in January'
line coming out of the club was an exercise in dampening the expectations of
selling clubs. After all, if you are not pressurized to buy in January that
undermines the tendency to hike prices at this time of the year. In reality
it was always likely the club would adjust the squad at this time of the
year and Jenkinson's poor form, together with the injuries to our two main
strikers, made a move in the window all the more likely.

Embed from Getty Images

Of current pending moves, the acquisition of Sam Byram is potentially an
excellent piece of business. However, I am not so confident about the loan
move for Nigerian international striker, Emmanuel Emenike. Emenike has been
on loan to Abu Dhabi side, Al Ain, from Turkish club Fenerbahce. There he
has scored 9 goals in 15 matches. He has also scored 9 goals in 37
appearances for Nigeria. It is a loan deal, so the club are obviously taking
a look before committing themselves to a permanent deal. It may also provide
the club with the latitude to agree an outgoing deal for either Jelavic or
Zarate.

There were also reports yesterday evening that the club were eyeing a deal
for Reading defender Jake Cooper. Although this deal (if it has any basis in
fact) is likely to be to acquire 'one for the future.' Cooper has only made
9 starts for Reading this season, starting their last 5 fixtures. The club
may think he is a prospect that is worth a punt, but with the likes of
Hendrie, Henry, Burke and Oxford already at the club, is this likely to be a
priority? We shall see.

So, it will be interesting to see how the winter transfer business shapes up
over the next couple of weeks. The real business is likely to be transacted
in the summer, but it is good to see an excellent prospect like Byram coming
in. As for the Emenike rumour, we will just have to see what transpires?
Could it be a red herring? Could another striker target emerge out of left
field? Or could Emenike prove to be an inspired acquisition? Regardless, at
least we have the assurance of knowing that both Sakho and Carroll are
likely to be back from injury at the front end of February. At least, lets
hope so?

SJ. Chandos.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WHAT PILLS HAVE THE BRENTWOOD GAZETTE BEEN TAKING?
By Iain Dale 20 Jan 2016 at 11:06
WTID

I look at some of the transfer rumours this week and I just shake my head.
It's not just on social media that some people ought to know better, this
madness is now infecting some of the mainstream press.

Take the Brentwood Gazette, for example. In the last couple of days they
have seriously suggested that we are in for both Carlos Tevez and Daniel
Sturridge. I suspect most Hammers fans would be quite happy if either player
were to join, but these stories are made up. Manufactured. Designed to get
other people talking about the Brentwood sodding Gazette.

Having signed one player from Liverpool for close on £18 million, who is
quite injury prone, does anyone seriously believe that we'd then sign
another one? I suppose the thinking goes they could play half a season each.
But there are two other reasons the signing of Daniel Sturridge is highly
unlikely. Firstly that we haven't got that kind of money to spend, and even
if we did his wages (rumoured to be £80-100k a week) would blow our FFP
structure. Secondly, given that Liverpool aren't exactly overburdened with
goalscoring strikers, why on earth would Juergen Klopp even consider selling
him when he'd never get as good a striker for that kind of money? He's not
mad.

Embed from Getty Images

On Tevez, he made his position very clear in an interview before he returned
to Argentina that anyone thinking he would return to Upton Park needed to
think again, as he wanted to return home to Argentina to be with his family.
That was in August. Would he really change his mind within six months? We're
told that Boca Juniors are behind in paying him his wages, but even so,
think of what we'd need to pay him. At Juventus he was on £130k per week.
I'd love to see him play in Mark Noble's testimonial, but I suspect that is
the only way we'll ever seem him at Upton Park again.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham complete Sam Byram transfer as Leeds full-back agrees
four-and-a-half year deal
14:20, 20 JAN 2016 UPDATED 15:40, 20 JAN 2016
BY LIAM PRENDERVILLE
The Hammers jumped ahead of Everton in the race for the 22-year-old with the
promise of first-team football, with Byram possibly involved against Man
City
The Mirror

West Ham have completed the signing of Sam Byram from Leeds. The 22-year-old
was widely expected to join Everton but West Ham jumped ahead of them in the
race with the promise of first-team football. Byram, who could go straight
into the squad for Saturday's clash with Man City, has arrived for an
undisclosed fee - believed to be around £3.7m. He has agreed a
four-and-a-half year deal at Upton Park. "I'm unbelievably proud and happy
to join a club as big as this," said Byram, who will wear the No.22 shirt.
"It's a childhood dream of mine to play in the Premier League, so to have
the chance to get into a team like this and I just want to get my head down,
work hard and hopefully get a chance. "I'm just looking forward to what the
future holds and hopefully I can achieve things with the team going forward.
"I spoke to the manager and he is one of the main reasons which attracted me
to West Ham. I think he's done unbelievably well with his team so far, so
I'm really looking forward to working with him and his staff."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to face Liverpool in FA Cup
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham will face Liverpool in the fourth round of the FA Cup after they
overcame Exeter City 3-0 tonight at the second attempt after a thrilling 2-2
draw at St James' Park earlier this month.

The Hammers will travel to Anfield for their fourth round match on Saturday
30th January and BT Sport has already announced it will provide LIVE TV
coverage of the tie with kick-off set for 5:30pm. Liverpool has allocated
3,000 tickets to West Ham despite cup tie's being eligible for 15% of the
stadium capacity which should entitle us to 6,832 seats. Exeter City were
given an allocation of 4,000 seats for tonight's 3-0 defeat at Anfield which
they sold out.

The possibility of doing the treble over the Reds will be a major incentive
for Slaven Bilic's side who have seen the Merseysiders off twice this
season.

West Ham has beat Liverpool away four times in our combined history. The
first was on 28th February 1928 when the Hammers were the 3-1 victory in the
old Division one, the second away win was 4th September 1954 which resulted
2-1 to the Irons. Before this season, the last victory was 14th September
1963 which finished 2-1 to the Hammers. The latest victory was last year on
the 29th August we famously beat Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield with Noble,
Lanzini and Sakho scoring.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Why Jenkinson won't be going back!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

One of the most regular questions of the season has been: "Can West Ham send
Carl Jenkinson back to Arsenal!" To say the Gooner has been disappointing
really doesn't do justice to the situation – you feel for the boy but let's
be honest…this season has been a disaster for him. It's been thought for a
long time that this loan is an unbreakable deal but when Liverpool and Aston
Villa cancelled the one involving Tiago Ilori it raised the question again.
As a result ClaretandHugh contacted the Premier League where we were told:
"We can't comment on individual deals but as far as we are concerned they
are generally for the season. "However, should the two clubs agree via a
clause in the contract that the deal can be brought to an end by mutual
consent that's entirely up to them."

One of our regular sources, however, made it clear that there was little
chance of Jenks returning to the Emirates as things stood. He said: "I
honestly don't know whether such a clause exists but it honestly doesn't
matter because Arsenal are never going to agree as they would be well out of
pocket. "The loan fee was £1.5 million so we would want £750,000 of that
back plus thy would be responsible for paying Jenkinson the £1 million we
agreed to pay him. It's not in their interests and it won't happen. "There
have been reports that Arsenal want him to play regular first team football
but at this stage of things I don't believe they will find a club to pay
them £1.75m to offset the expense of taking him back when they can make a
profit out of us!"

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zarate deal not cut and dried
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Mauro Zarate will only be allowed to complete his €3 million move to
Fiorentina if the Hammers complete a deal for Nigerian Emmanuel Emenike.
Widespread reports that the Argentinian is on his way from Uton Park are not
100 per cent correct as ClaretandHugh has learned within the last few
minutes that it's all dependent on signing a loan striker. Fiorentina are
claimed to have reached an agreement with West Ham regarding a permanent
switch for Zarate at around €3m, which roughly equates to £2.3m. Zarate
joined West Ham on a free transfer from Vélez Sarsfield in 2014 after buying
out his remaining contract and yesterday (Mon) West Ham Chairman David
Sullivan told Sky Sports News "Mauro wants first team football and he
realises if everyone is available then he may be a little bit down the
batting order. So it is just possible that we would let him go." However,
the club will not give Fiorentina or Zarate the nod until they know the
outcome of their negotiations with Emenike and there were some work permit
worries over the player emerging this evening. The national team of a loaned
player needs to be in the top 50 of the world ranking and currently Nigeria
sit in 66th place and that is having to be checked out as negotiations with
the player continue.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The real cost of Sullivan's 20 goals a season striker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham's hopes of landing a 20 goals a season striker next season will be
hit by a massive wages factor. David Sullivan told Sky Sports yesterday
(Mon) in a wide ranging interview that a top striker was the main priority
this summer. But he has already been warned that such a player could easily
cost up to £130k a week in wages which with a minimum £20 million transfer
fee would see the package over four years rocket to around £50 million.
Sullivan has already informed agents of his top requirement but one – who
preferred to remain anonymous – told ClaretandHugh tonight: "It going to be
a tough call. Maybe the club has that sort of cash available – they are
certainly going to need it. Andy Carroll – £17 million – is on nearly £90k a
week – so a guaranteed 20 a season a man could cost £40k or £50k a week
more.
A lot of agents are on the look out for the club but it's certainly not
going to be an easy brief to fulfil."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Overseas on loan striker revealed
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Emmanuel Emenike has been revealed as the mysterious 'overseas' striker
which West Ham hope to sign on loan within the next seven days and not
Andre-Pierre Gignac as previously speculated.
The news was broken by ITK EXWHUEmployee on his website
www.TheWestHamWay.co.uk late on Tuesday night Ex claims "His agent met with
David Sullivan this week to iron out the terms of a loan move with an option
to buy at the end of the season. The club hope to complete the deal by
Friday if all goes to plan. " The full story can be found here The Sun have
also ran a similar story claiming that the Nigerian has been in London this
week in order to negotiate a deal. The 28-year-old joined Al Ain FC on a
season-long loan deal in the summer of 2015, but it has been cut short.
Slaven Bilic knows Emenike from his time in Turkey as Besiktas manager.
Fenerbahce are said to want at least £7million for their striker on a
permanent deal and will give West Ham to buy at the end of the season. Last
March Emenike stormed off the pitch after the striker was the victim of
alleged abuse from his own fans in Turkey. Soon after blowing a one on one
chance, Emenike was booed by his own fans, with allegations that some of the
abuse was also racist. The striker angrily removed his shirt and marched
towards the sidelines during the match against rivals Besiktas who was then
managed by Slaven Bilic.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Byram: The financial package
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Sam Byram has joined West Ham on terms similar to those offered to Aaron
Cresswell. ClaretandHugh understand the club's new right back will be
earning around £30k a week although we believe there are also staged
payments involved. Byram is set to join the club officially later today
after David Sullivan hijacked Everton's move for the Leeds player who at 22
years old has been described as having a "tremendous future." The Irons have
paid just over £3.7 million for him with half of the money being paid now to
cash-stricken Leeds with the remainder falling due at the end of the season.
ClaretandHugh was told: "It was clear we needed to move quickly for Sam
although, as explained, we would sooner have waited for a free transfer in
the summer." That may have given the player more cash than he has received
in personal terms but Byram had no problem with immediately agreeing terms.
We were told: "He's on a similar deal to the one that brought Aaron here – a
basic of around £30k plus staged payments based on appearances and the
like."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
City fans wish Boleyn sad farewell
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 20, 2016 in News
C and H

There's always been an affinity between Irons and Man City fans. Maybe it's
a mutual dislike of their Manchester neighbours or a similar history of ups
and downs.

Ahead of the weekend clash with Manuel Pellegrini's team the City fans have
been getting quite emotional about their last visit to our ground on
http://forums.bluemoon-mcfc.co.uk/threads/upton-park-memories.318789/

Here's a selection of the comments we found.

O I've been a few times and always enjoyed the crack with the Hammers
supporters during the match followed by a great time around Canary Wharf
afterwards.

O I cannot believe this will be our last ever visit to the Boleyn which is a
great old ground. I've been twice and always had respect for that place.

O I was there when we got relegated. The atmosphere was amazing. Those fans
gave us an ovation and were shaking our hands afterwards.

O Hope we go out with a bang. We should bt the Hammers a goodbye gift or
flag.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan praises Slav's honesty
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

David Sullivan has taken a little dig at football club managers by drawing
attention to the truthfulness of Slaven Bilic. The manager has drawn much
praise from the fans to is refusal to tell anything other than the truth in
interviews and made his feelings very clear on the weekend defeat against
Newcastle. And the co chairman has taken what may be interpreted as a little
side swipe at one or two of his predecessors in his latest 'From the
Boardroom piece on the official site. In an interesting observation he said:
"I agree 100 per cent with the manager that we were better in the second
half and we could have nicked a draw. It's so refreshing to have a manager
who is so honest about our performance. In reality all the teams on Saturday
who had also played away during the midweek seem to be affected. And he
added: "We know we have to better on Saturday or it will be another tough
afternoon as Manchester City are playing to their maximum at the moment.
Despite Saturday ruining my weekend, as I'm sure it did for most supporters,
in the cold light of day we are not having a bad season ! We are still in
the top six and there is still everything to play for."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Official: Byram is a hammer
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 20, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Sam Byram is officially a Hammer. He has signed a four and a half contract
thought to be worth £30,000 per week with Leeds receiving a transfer fee
believed to be close to £3.8m. He will wear the No.22 shirt. WHUFC.com
announced this afternoon :"West Ham United are delighted to announce the
signing of highly-rated full-back Sam Byram from Leeds United." "The
Essex-born player joins the Hammers, who have fought sam3off strong
competition to capture the promising 22-year-old, on a four-and-a-half year
contract for an undisclosed fee." Byram told the club website "I'm
unbelievably proud and happy to join a Club as big as this, I'm just looking
forward to what the future holds and hopefully I can achieve things with the
team going forward. It's a childhood dream of mine to play in the Premier
League, so to have the chance to get into a team like this and I just want
to get my head down, work hard and hopefully get a chance."
"I spoke to the manager and he is one of the main reasons which attracted me
to West Ham. I think he's done unbelievably well with his team so far, so
I'm really looking sam2forward to working with him and his staff.My uncle
and my cousin are big West Ham fans and have bought their tickets for the
new Stadium. My uncle was down here yesterday getting a shirt with my name
on the back! It's nice to have them down here and they'll help me settle so
I'm looking forward to seeing them."

"I'm also really looking forward to seeing the new Stadium in person. That
was another big part in me wanting to come here. It's a massive part of the
future of the Club and I can't wait to see and hopefully play in it."

Sam was born in Thurrock Essex before moving to York as a child where he
played for the York city's Schools team before joining Leeds United at the
age of eleven in 2005.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham chief discusses deal to sign international striker
WEST HAM owner David Sullivan had revealed the club are looking to sign a
'20-goals-a-season striker'.
By JOSEPH PEARSON
PUBLISHED: 14:03, Wed, Jan 20, 2016 | UPDATED: 14:17, Wed, Jan 20, 2016
Express.co.uk

The Hammers have three names on their shortlist with two of their strikers
at the club, Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho, currently sidelined with
injuries. The Daily Mail report that Emmanuel Emenike, Alexandre Pato and
Demba Ba are all targets for West Ham. But a deal for Emenike appears to the
most likely because his agent was in London earlier this week. The
28-year-old Nigerian striker is currently on loan at Al Ain in Abu Dhabi
from Fenerbahce. But his loan could be cut short ahead of a move to the
Premier League with another loan deal to East London on the cards. Sullivan
confirmed that West Ham were lining up a loan move for a striker in the next
week. "We are looking long-term for a 20-goals-a-season striker," he told
Sky Sports. "There's a possibility that a striker will come in on loan in
the next seven days, with an option to buy. "He's an overseas striker. He
has played in higher leagues but it may not happen. When they are all fit,
we probably have too many strikers anyway.". Emineke has played for
Fenerbahce in Turkey and Spartak Moscow in Russia. His arrival at Upton
Park is likely to end their reported interest in Chelsea target Pato and Ba,
who played 12 games for the Hammers in 2011.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Byram: Why I joined West Ham over Everton
SAM BYRAM has opened up on his decision to leave boyhood club Leeds for West
Ham.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 14:21, Wed, Jan 20, 2016 | UPDATED: 14:32, Wed, Jan 20, 2016
Express.co.uk

The Hammers landed the 22-year-old for a cut-price fee of just £3.7million,
with his contract at Elland Road set to expire at the end of the season. And
the Thorp Arch academy product admits he couldn't turn down the chance to
achieve his dream of playing in the Premier League. The right-back received
another bid from top-flight rivals Everton, but he says the lure of playing
at the Olympic Stadium next season swayed his decision. His choice was
likely to have also been influenced by the fact a number of his family
members are Irons fans. "I'm unbelievably proud and happy to join a club as
big as this," Byram said. "I'm just looking forward to what the future holds
and hopefully I can achieve things with the team going forward.
"It's a childhood dream of mine to play in the Premier League, so to have
the chance to get into a team like this and I just want to get my head down,
work hard and hopefully get a chance.
"I spoke to the manager and he is one of the main reasons which attracted me
to West Ham. "I think he's done unbelievably well with his team so far, so
I'm really looking forward to working with him and his staff. "My uncle and
my cousin are big West Ham fans and have bought their tickets for the new
stadium. My uncle was down here yesterday getting a shirt with my name on
the back! "It's nice to have them down here and they'll help me settle so
I'm looking forward to seeing them. "I'm also really looking forward to
seeing the new stadium in person. That was another big part in me wanting to
come here. "It's a massive part of the future of the club and I can't wait
to see and hopefully play in it."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: Emmanuel Emenike loan to ease striker crisis
Nigerian international expected to arrive at Upton Park after injuries to
Diafra Sakho and Andy Carroll
telegraph.co.uk
By Matt Law11:07AM GMT 20 Jan 2016

West Ham United are confident of completing a loan deal for Nigerian
international Emmanuel Emenike to ease the club's striker crisis. Hammers
manager Slaven Bilic has been hit by injuries to Diafra Sakho and Andy
Carroll, leaving him with Nikica Jelavic as his only out-and-out senior
striker. Jelavic has a lucrative offer from China and West Ham had been
preparing to let the Croatian go, but now need to bring cover in. Emenike
has been on loan at Al Ain from Turkish club Fenerbahce and scored nine
goals in 15 games for the Abu Dhabi team before the temporary deal ended
this month. West Ham have already achieved success in taking a player from
Abu Dhabi, having signed midfielder Manuel Lanzini from Al Jazira in the
summer. Emenike has played 37 times for Nigeria, scoring nine goals, and has
also played for Spartak Moscow. West Ham will initially take 28-year-old
Emenike on loan until the end of the season before reassessing their options
in the summer, when Manchester City's Wilfried Bony is likely to be among
their top targets. West Ham co-owner David Sullivan confirmed that the club
are in talks with a new striker by saying: "There's a possibility that a
striker will come in on loan, with the option to buy, within the next seven
days. He's an overseas striker. "If I told you, you wouldn't believe it. I
can't tell you which league because then you'll know exactly who it is. We
are signing from a very strange league. But he has played in higher
leagues."
Hinting at the summer bid for Bony, Sullivan added: "We are looking,
long-term, for a 20-goal-a-season striker." West Ham are on the verge of
completing the signing of Sam Byram from Leeds United with the right-back,
who was also wanted by Everton, booked in to take a medical.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham close in on £7m-rated goal machine
By James Jones - Jan 20, 2016 0
westhamworld.co.uk

West Ham are closing in on a loan move for Fenerbahce striker Emmanuel
Emenike, as reported by MailOnline. The news was exclusively revealed by the
ever-reliable @ExWHUemployee on Tuesday evening and it is now being widely
reported that a deal could be completed as early as Friday. Emenike, 28, is
currently on loan at Al Ain in Abu Dhabi but it is believed that is close to
being cut short so he can secure a move to the Premier League this month.
According to @ExWHUemployee, Emenike's agent was in London in to meet with
David Sullivan this week as they attempt to thrash out a loan deal with an
option to buy in the summer. David Sullivan revealed yesterday that the club
are in the market for a 20-goal-a-season striker, and admitted talks were
happening over a loan deal with a view to buy. He exclusively told Sky
Sports: "We are looking long-term for a 20-goal-a-season striker. There's a
possibility that a striker will come in on loan in the next seven days, with
an option to buy."
And it appears the striker Sullivan was referring to could be Emenike, who
has scored 80 career goals in 183 club appearances. The link certainly makes
sense given Slaven Bilic's knowledge of the Turkish league, following his
time as manager of Besiktas. Emenike scored 16 goals in 55 league outings
for Fenerbahce before being loaned to Al Ain. The 28-year-old has also
played for MP Black Aces, Cape Town, Karabukspor and Spartak Moscow. The
former Nigerian international, who retired from international football in
October last year, is valued at £7m by transfermarkt.co.uk.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eyeing second Championship defender raid
By James Jones - Jan 20, 2016 0
westhamworld.co.uk

West Ham are interested in signing Reading centre-back Jake Cooper, as
reporting by The Times. The Hammers are already expected to complete a deal
for Leeds United right-back Sam Byram this week, and they're now believed to
be eyeing Cooper as another young defender from England's second tier.
Cooper broke in to the Royals' first team last season and has become an
impressive feature in Brian McDermott's side ever since. It's not clear how
much Cooper would cost the Hammers but with the club supposedly getting
pretty close to their wage budget – and therefore breaching Financial Fair
Play regulations – it wouldn't be a surprise if a deal didn't materialise
until the summer, if at all. Alternatively, if West Ham are desperate enough
to secure Cooper's signature as early as possible, it would be beneficial
for both clubs to allow Cooper to return to Reading on loan for the
remainder of the campaign if a deal is completed this month. Cooper has
represented England at U18 and U19 level and has made 21 first team
appearances for Reading since his breakthrough last term. It's clear West
Ham are eager to take advantage of the talent available in the Championship,
following the success of Aaron Cresswell since he signed from Ipswich at the
beginning of last season.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emmanuel Emenike emerges as top West Ham target along with Alexandre Pato
and former player Demba Ba
Former Nigeria international Emmanuel Emenike is on West Ham's shortlist
Demba Ba and Alexandre Pato are also being considered by the club
David Sullivan has said club are looking for a '20-goals-a-season striker'
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 01:13, 20 January 2016 | UPDATED: 01:15, 20 January 2016

West Ham are targeting a January move for former Nigeria international
Emmanuel Emenike as they continue to step up their chase for a new striker.
The agent of Emenike was in London earlier this week as the 28-year-old
remains in the frame to seal a move to the east London outfit. Emenike, who
has previously played in Europe in Russia and Turkey, has been on loan at Al
Ain in Abu Dhabi from Fenerbahce but the deal is being cut short so he can
seal a move to the Premier League. West Ham are also considering moves for
former player Demba Ba and Alexandre Pato, who is said to be keen on a move
to England, as Diafra Sakho and Andy Carroll are currently on the sidelines.
Joint-chairman David Sullivan told Sky Sports on Tuesday afternoon: 'We are
looking long-term for a 20-goals-a-season striker. 'There's a possibility
that a striker will come in on loan in the next seven days, with an option
to buy. 'He's an overseas striker. He has played in higher leagues but it
may not happen. When they are all fit, we probably have too many strikers
anyway.' Fiorentina are keen on Mauro Zarate, who last played for the
Hammers on January 9. Meanwhile, West Ham are set to sign Sam Byram from
Leeds in the next few days after beating Everton to his signature.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 20

Daily WHUFC News - Sam Byram

Hammers sign Sam Byram
WHUFC.com

West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of highly-rated
full-back Sam Byram from Leeds United. The Essex-born player joins the
Hammers, who have fought off strong competition to capture the promising
22-year-old, on a four-and-a-half year contract for an undisclosed fee. A
technically-gifted, fast and athletic attacking right-back or right
midfielder, Byram has moved to the Boleyn Ground after four outstanding
seasons in the first team at Elland Road - and cannot wait to get his Claret
and Blue career under way. "I'm unbelievably proud and happy to join a Club
as big as this," said Byram, who will wear the No22 shirt. "I'm just looking
forward to what the future holds and hopefully I can achieve things with the
team going forward. "It's a childhood dream of mine to play in the Premier
League, so to have the chance to get into a team like this and I just want
to get my head down, work hard and hopefully get a chance.
"I spoke to the manager and he is one of the main reasons which attracted me
to West Ham. I think he's done unbelievably well with his team so far, so
I'm really looking forward to working with him and his staff. "My uncle and
my cousin are big West Ham fans and have bought their tickets for the new
Stadium. My uncle was down here yesterday getting a shirt with my name on
the back! It's nice to have them down here and they'll help me settle so I'm
looking forward to seeing them. "I'm also really looking forward to seeing
the new Stadium in person. That was another big part in me wanting to come
here. It's a massive part of the future of the Club and I can't wait to see
and hopefully play in it."

Born in Thurrock, Byram moved to Yorkshire as a child and grew up in York,
playing for the city's Schools team before joining Leeds United at the age
of eleven in 2005. The 6'0 player came through the Academy before
establishing himself in The Peacocks' first-team squad at the start of the
2012/13 season. Byram made his Leeds debut in a League Cup victory over
Shrewsbury Town in August 2012, scoring his maiden goal against Oxford
United later the same month. Then just 19, he totalled 53 appearances and
made a clean sweep of Leeds' end-of-season Player Awards. Despite being
repeatedly linked with a move to the Premier League, Byram remained loyal to
the Whites, being moved into a more advanced right wing position last
season. He departs Elland Road having made 143 appearances and scored ten
goals.

An impressive December 2015 saw Byram score three goals for Leeds and be
named The Championship Player of the Month, and West Ham fans will hope he
continues that outstanding form in a Claret and Blue shirt.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Byram - Ten Fast Facts
WHUFC.com

Find out more about our new signing Sam Byram with our ten fast facts.

Sam is a local boy to the Hammers, having been born in Thurrock before
moving north to Yorkshire.

He signed scholarship forms with Leeds United in 2010 after completing his
secondary education and quickly progressed through the ranks.
After two years in the youth team, his first team debut came in a League Cup
tie against Shrewsbury Town in August 2012, keeping his place in the team
from thereon.

He didn't have to wait long for his first professional goal, notching in a
3-0 League Cup win against Oxford later that same month.
Sam headed in an El-Hadji Diouf cross to score his first league goal for
Leeds, as he helped the Whites secure a 2-2 draw at Bolton Wanderers in
October 2012.

Byram's breakthrough season ended with personal honours as he took the Leeds
United Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year, Players' Player of the
Year and Supporters' Club Player of the Year awards.

Attracting interest from Southampton in the summer of 2014, Byram remained
at Elland Road for Leeds' Skybet Championship campaign.

A versatile player, Sam began this season playing as a right-forward in a
4-3-3 formation, and has also been known to play at right midfield.

Just last month he picked up the Championship Player of the Month award
after scoring three goals in December.

You can join the 84,000 people following Sam on Twitter at @sambyram93

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 20th January 2016

From the Boardroom - David Sullivan
WHUFC.com

We were nowhere near our best during the first half on Saturday and sadly
that ended up costing us the game. I agree 100 per cent with the manager
that we were better in the second half and we could have nicked a draw. It's
so refreshing to have a manager who is so honest about our performance. In
reality all the teams on Saturday who had also played away during the
midweek seem to be affected. Maybe the travelling had an impact on them as
in seven games, five lost and two drew.
I want to say a big thank you our supporters who made the long trips to
Bournemouth and Newcastle in the space of four days. Our support at both
grounds was fantastic as always and I know the players, management and the
board are so grateful for the time and effort you spend following us up and
down the country.
We know we have to better on Saturday or it will be another tough afternoon
as Manchester City are playing to their maximum at the moment. Despite
Saturday ruining my weekend, as I'm sure it did for most supporters, in the
cold light of day we are not having a bad season ! We are still in the top
six and there is still everything to play for. We have already done the
double over Liverpool this season and having recorded an impressive victory
at the Etihad Stadium back in September, I am sure Slaven and the players
will be doing everything they can to record another memorable victory on
Saturday.
We are celebrating our sixth anniversary on Tuesday since myself and David
Gold took control of West Ham United back in 2010. It has been a memorable
spell in charge and we have now assembled the strongest set of players since
we took ownership of the Club. The future is looking so bright and with our
move into the new Stadium during the summer we can only dream of bigger and
better things for everyone connected with the football club.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Victor Moses
WHUFC.com

Victor Moses has become an integral part of the first-team squad at West Ham
United following his move across London this season and has played his part
in some memorable victories for the Hammers. The talented winger joined on a
season-long loan from Chelsea and made an immediate impact on his debut
against Newcastle when he stuck the crossbar and Dimitri Payet was on hand
to fire the rebound into the back of the net. Things got even better for the
Nigeria international in his second game against Manchester City when he
scored an impressive goal at the Etihad Stadium to set West Ham on their way
to a 2-1 victory. Moses still has fond memories of his first goal for the
east London club and hopes he can experience a similar feeling when the two
teams meet again at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday.

Victor, how important was the win at Manchester City back in September and
what were the key factors in seeing the Hammers come away with all three
points?

VM: "I remember the game very well. After the Newcastle game where I made my
debut and we managed to get the three points, we then had another big game
at Manchester City.

"We went to the Etihad Stadium and were really looking forward to the game.

"It was really important that we got an early goal and that gave us the
perfect springboard to work hard as a team and we then managed to get the
second goal.

"They came back into the game and pulled a goal back right on half-time, so
we had to re-group again and stop them scoring the equaliser. The most
important thing is the hard work and we definitely put a shift in that day."

Having already beaten Arsenal and Liverpool in the early part of the season,
did you sense in the dressing room before the game that the players were
confident of coming away with all three points?

VM: "There was definitely belief among the players that we could get the
victory. If you look at the quality of players that we have got, we were all
on top form that day and having beaten Arsenal and Liverpool, we went there
full of confidence that we could get a result.

"We knew it would be a tough task, but we stuck together as a team and made
sure that we got the three points that we deserved."

It was a pretty impressive shot from you that beat England number's one Joe
Hart. Is that one of the best goals you have scored in recent times?

VM: "I was kind of delighted with that strike! I got the ball from Payet and
when I turned, there was nobody around me.

"The next thing on my mind was to have a shot and thankfully the ball went
into the corner. That was the first time I had scored past Joe Hart as well.

"You have got to be happy when you score against Manchester City because
they are a good team and have world class players. Scoring against them
meant a lot to me."

How much would you love a repeat performance on Saturday and see the team
come away with another big victory against the former Premier League
champions?

VM: "The most important thing is that we stay together as a team again and
do everything to get the three points on Saturday."

What has the spirit been like since you arrived and how much has that played
a role in the Club's impressive performances this season?

VM: "The spirit is a lot different. Everyone wants to play for the manager
and looking forward to each game.

"Everyone wants to express themselves to make sure the manager and fans are
happy. It is good to win games and we have definitely showed with our spirit
this season that we are prepared to come back in any game and come away with
a positive result."

Everyone knows the attacking threat that Manchester City will have on
Saturday with the likes of Sergio Aguero and David Silva, but they should
also be worried about our attackers and the dangers we will pose to their
defence?

VM: "We can cause them lots of problems with the position we find ourselves
in the table. We just want to keep winning games and it doesn't matter who
we are playing against.

"If we can beat Manchester City at their place, there is no reason why we
cannot do the same at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. It will be a good game
and hopefully we can get the result that we deserve on Saturday."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad draw Rovers in quarter finals
WHUFC.com

The West Ham United Development Squad have been drawn against Blackburn
Rovers in the quarter-final of U21 Premier League Cup. The Hammers cup run
started with a commanding 4-0 away win over Exeter City before securing a
3-2 win over London rivals Fulham after extra-time.
Meanwhile opponents Blackburn, overcame local rivals Burnley 3-1 before
recording a 1-0 victory over Leicester City. Earlier in the season, the two
sides played out a seven goal thriller at Ewood Park. Despite leading three
times, the young Hammers could not convert the lead into points as Rovers
won 4-3 thanks to a late Connor Mahoney brace.

The venue, time and date will be confirmed in due process.

Full Draw:

Southampton or Huddersfield Town v Charlton Atheltic
Liverpool or Leeds United v Everton or Brighton & Hove Albion
West Ham United v Blackburn Rovers
Millwall v Hull City

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham for Europe, predicts Lawro
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 19th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

Mark Lawrenson may have incurred the wrath of West Ham supporters for his
dreadfully negative predictions this season - but he still believes the
Hammers are on course to qualify for Europe.
Match of the Day pundit 'Lawro' - as he is popularly known - and his
predictions are responsible for one of the KUMB Forum's longest-running
threads, in which his offerings have been overwhelmingly ridiculed for the
past eight years or so. This season, were his predictions correct West Ham
would be residing in the Premier League's relegation zone rather than the
upper echelons of the table. However the former Republic of Ireland
international insists that he has nothing against West Ham.

Speaking exclusively to the KUMB Podcast, Lawresnson revealed that Hammers
fans were just the latest to criticise him. "Southampton fans were on my
back the year before last and Swansea were another club whose fans didn't
particularly like me," he told Podcast hosts Chris Scull and Bianca
Westwood. "Evertonians always give me grief as well, so it is what it is!

"You've never upset me - and I nearly went to West Ham as a kid! Everyone
thinks I sit there, look at the teams who I don't like and decide who's
going to get beat. But basically, the guy just rings me up and I decide
whether West Ham and the other 19 clubs are going to win, lose or draw. So
it's nothing personal, I can assure you!"

Lawrenson, who made more than 240 appearances for Liverpool during his
career also defended his predilection for being more favourable to his
former club. "WHen I'm on the TV and radio, I'm probably Liverpool's worst
critic," he insisted. "So it's probably the case that I would like them to
win, but they're not doing particularly well at the moment. "West Ham have
got a better team than Liverpool at the moment so happy days, they've done
absolutely fantastic. When they appointed Bilic after Sam [Allardyce], I
wasn't sure. An old player going back as manager, does it ever really work?
Then you had a fantastic start, all those fabulous away wins - then a dip
like Sam's team last year. "But with all those players injured you had a
long, unbeaten run so they've done great. And I tipped you to draw last
weekend and you got beat 2-1, so I can't be wrong all the time! "I go to a
lot of games and people stop me and say 'last week you predicted this and
that' - to which I have a stock answer: if I could predict football results
every week in the Premier League do you think I'd be going to Oldham on a
cold, wet, Wednesday night - or would I be sat on a boat in the Bahamas?"

Still old habits die hard and when asked by the KUMB Podcast team to predict
a winner from West Ham's forthcoming clash with Manchester City, Lawrenson
reverted to type. "Ah, you're going to get beat!" he replied in an instant.
"I was at Man City against Palace at the weekend and they didn't play very
well in the first half. Palace were good but couldn't score and then gave a
stupid goal or two away. But I think City are going to get the it between
their teeth now. "They're not good defensively do I think you're going to
score but I'd have to go for Man City. I've a feeling they're going to go on
a long run now - and now tjkust because they're playing West Ham."

Yet despite his opinion of West Ham's chances against Manuel Pellegrini's
title-chasers, Larwo predicts a happy ending for West Ham fans when the
curtain finally falls on the Boleyn Ground at the end of this season. "This
is the year where you can make the Europa League," he said. "I was at
Liverpool at the weekend - Manchester United were unbelievably average and
they're going to finish in the top four. "I'd say West Ham have got better
individual players than Manchester United, they just don't have as many
because of the size of the squads and stuff. But this is the year where
Europa League qualification is definitely achievable."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
In Conversation with Graeme Howlett (KUMB)
Posted on 19 January 2016 by bettingrunner
www.bettingrunner.comby Bettingrunner on 19 January 2016

In this session we are in conversation with Graeme Howlett, the founder of
Knees Up Mother Brown (KUMB) – a blog dedicated purely for the English
Premier League club, West Ham United FC. Since 1997, KUMB offers news, match
reports and everything related to West Ham United. Read further and find out
more about Graeme, KUMB and West Ham United.

Hello Graeme, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I've been following West Ham religiously since I saw my first match on TV –
the 1975 FA Cup Final against Fulham (we won 2-0, so I've always been a bit
of a glory-hunter). My first live game came the following year, a 2-1 home
defeat to Derby County in which Charlie George scored the winning goal for
the Rams. My family – both sides – emanate from east London, many of whom
have also been season ticket holders over the years – so in that sense I'm
just carrying on a tradition.

How did KUMB start?

Knees up Mother Brown began life in the summer of 1997 when I was learning
web development. I needed a project to work with and as a regular follower
of the club, a website about West Ham United seemed a logical choice. 18
years later and that temporary project is still going strong!

What's the story behind the name – Knees Up Mother Brown?

The website is named after a popular drinking song which is believed to have
its origins in Victorian London and was sung by travelling West Ham
supporters on the terraces regularly through the 1970s and 1980s (and more
sporadically, long before that). The titular 'Mother Brown' is believed to
be a reference to Queen Victoria, who is said to have married servant John
Brown following the death of her beloved husband Albert.

What's your role there? Who are the other main contributors?

I'm the website owner, main content contributor and Editor. I'm also
responsible for all web development (front and back end), My deputy for the
last decade or so has been Gordon Thrower (aka 'Gnome'), who also assists
KUMB's nine-strong forum moderating team. Chris Scull and Bianca Westwood
(better known for her appearances on Sky Sports) are the current presenters
of our Podcast team whilst a cast of hundreds have contributed articles and
match reports over the last 18 years.

What is unique about KUMB?

We enjoy a close relationship with one or two club insiders which helps us
bring important news relating to WHUFC before other sources and the national
press. We also host an active forum (with some 21,000+ members) which was
named the web's Best Football Forum in the 2015 Football Blogging Awards.

What are some challenges you face?

Recent years have seen a boom in copycat websites and blogs, which means we
have to constantly fight to maintain our position as the web's number one
independent resource for all things West Ham related. The advent of social
media could have proved costly, although our readership has actually
increased substantially since the likes of Twitter and Facebook first
appeared. But as with anything inspired by technology, the key is keeping
abreast of new developments and standards.

Let's talk about football. In your opinion, who is the greatest West Ham
United player of all time?

That would be Sir Trevor Brooking. He was a genius with the ball, my idol as
a child and someone I've been privileged to have interviewed on behalf of
KUMB since.

So far, who was the greatest manager West Ham United ever had?

In most supporters' eyes, it'd be a face-off between Ron Greenwood and his
successor, John Lyall. Ron changed the way West Ham played in the early
1960s and brought us success on a both national and international stages
whilst Lyall brought us two FA Cup wins, another European final and our
highest ever top flight finish (third in 1985/86).

How far do you think West Ham United will advance in this Premier League
season?

If West Ham can maintain their current form it'll be an excellent first
season for Slaven Bilic, who is someone the fans have taken to immediately.
With good cause too – he's an intelligent man, a thinker; one of the new
breed of managers.

Do you think the current situation will get better with the upcoming
transfers?

Although the club are unlikely to be spending too much during the current
transfer window, big promises have already been made for the summer. West
Ham are moving to the Olympic Stadium after 111 years at the Boleyn Ground
and the Board have promised that Bilic will have a sizeable war chest to
take with him.

Follow him on Twitter @kumbdotcom

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Byram medical today
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 19th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

Sam Byram is set to undergo a medical this afternoon ahead of his move to
West Ham. The Leeds defender was the subject of a £3.7million bid from the
Hammers earlier this week and has travelled to London ahead of his planned
move to the Boleyn Ground. The deal was confirmed by Chairman David Sullivan
on Sky Sports this lunchtime (Tuesday).

Sullivan also admitted that West Ham had not planned to bid for the
22-year-old defender until the summer, as previously stated here on KUMB,
but moved after Everton had an offer - also worth £3.7million, Leeds' asking
price - accepted for the player. "Originally we were going to do nothing as
we spent our money in the summer," he said. "We hoped to sign Sam Byram in
the summer when he was out of contract with Leeds but in the last few days
it looked like he was going to Everton, so we realised it was now or never.
"Hopefully that will go through in the next 24 hours if everything is agreed
between him and the club. "I wouldn't normally say this but the Leeds
Chairman has made it public and I think it's wrong to mention what you're
doing until it's actually done. But if they're happy for it to be public,
then so are we. We've agreed terms with Leeds, we've agreed terms with the
player and we expect it to go through."

Alex Callaghan @Callyhan
As much as I want Byram at Everton, I can see why he'd want to join West
Ham. More and more apparent that we're not keeping up with others
1:51 PM - 19 Jan 2016

Thurrock-born Byram decided to return South after rejecting Everton's
advances - much to the fury of some of their supporters. And it is the
second time in a matter of months that a player has picked the Hammers over
their Merseyside rivals, with Angelo Ogbonna also rejecting the opportunity
to move to Goodison Park last summer.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan confirms interest in 'overseas' striker
KUMb.com
Filed: Tuesday, 19th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

David Sullivan has refused to comment on rumours linking West Ham with a
move for Watford's in-form striker Odion Ighalo. West Ham United's co-owner
appeared on Sky Sports this lunchtime (Tuesday) to talk about the transfer
window and West Ham plans. And whilst he refused to be drawn on the club's
claimed interest in the 26-year-old Nigerian international, Sullivan
admitted that West Ham are planning to bring in at least one new face in
addition to defender Sam Byram, who is undergoing a medical today. "We can't
comment because it's called tapping-up!" he said. "But we are looking
long-term for a 20-goal-a-season striker and there's a possibility that an
overseas striker will come in on loan within the next seven days with an
option to buy."

And when asked to indicate the identity of the player, Sullivan replied: "If
I told you, you wouldn't believe me! I can't tell you because you'd know
exactly who it is. It's like when we signed Manuel Lanzini from Saudi
Arabia, but he has played in higher leagues. "It's just a possibility and it
may not happen - and if all our strikers are fit, we've probably got too
many anyway."

Sullivan also confirmed that Mauro Zarate could be leaving the club before
the end of the month - although much depended on who else was fit and
available by then. "Mauro wants first team football," he said. "He realises
that if everyone is available he may be a little down the batting order, so
it's possible that we'll let him go. But at this moment in time we can't let
anybody go because of the injury situation. "We've got so many strikers
injured. We don't really want to let anybody go but also you don't want to
have unhappy players, so it's about striking a balance and doing what's best
for the player and club."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan to return - at Orient
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 19th January 2016
By: Staff Writer

Former Hammers captain Kevin Nolan is set to return to the game - as
player/manager of League One Leyton Orient. The third-tier side parted
company with another former Hammer earlier this week when they dismissed
former Hammers coach Ian Hendon after just seven months in the post. And
KUMB understands that the Os are poised to name Nolan, who spent four years
at West Ham between 2011 and 2015 as his replacement imminently. Nolan
joined West Ham following the club's relegation from the Premier League in
2011 and was Sam Allardyce's first signing when succeeding Avram Grant. The
former captain led West Ham to play-off success against Blackpool at Wembley
in 2012 before helping the club re-establish itself as a top flight force.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'It was now or never' to sign Sam Byram, says West Ham chairman
By Lyall Thomas
Last Updated: 19/01/16 3:35pm
SSN

David Sullivan has revealed West Ham wanted to sign Sam Byram this summer
but, after realising Everton moved for him last week, it was "now or never"
to get their man. Sky sources reported on Monday night that the Hammers had
swooped in for the right-back after Everton agreed a deal with the
22-year-old's current club Leeds United. And Sullivan confirmed to Sky
Sports News HQ on Tuesday that both personal terms and a transfer fee have
been agreed with all parties. He said: "We hoped to sign Sam Byram in the
summer when he was out of contract at Leeds. "In the last few days, it
looked like he was going to Everton, so we realised it was now or never and
had to pitch in to sign him. "Hopefully that will go through in the next 24
hours. Everything has been agreed with the player and the club. "I wouldn't
normally say this but the Leeds chairman has made it public, because I think
it's wrong to mention what you're doing until it's done. But if they're
happy to mention it, so are we."

Sullivan believed his club would not do any business in the winter transfer
window but he also revealed they are looking to bring in a striker on loan.
There's a possibility that a striker will come in on loan.... He's an
overseas striker. If I told you, you wouldn't believe it. "We are looking,
long-term, for a 20-goal-a-season striker," he said. "There's a possibility
that a striker will come in on loan, with the option to buy, within the next
seven days. He's an overseas striker. "If I told you, you wouldn't believe
it. I can't tell you which league because then you'll know exactly who it
is. "We are signing from a very strange league. But he has played in higher
leagues."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ridiculous Sturridge rumour typifies silly season
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham United are ready to make a £18m offer for Liverpool striker Daniel
Sturridge as Jurgen Klopp looks to cash in on the player' says the Brentwood
Gazette with a straight face.The Daily Star and Daily Express took the
rumour seriously and reprinted it for their readers this evening to an
uproar on social media.

Back on planet earth, we are seeing a humorous pattern emerge with our
friends over the Brentwood Gazette with some stories worthy of yesteryear
Sunday Sport newspaper headlines like 'World War Two Bomber found on moon'

In addition to Daniel Sturridge, the Gazette have linked us to a £15 million
bid for Swiss striking sensation Josip Drmic and a return for Carlos Tevez
from Boca Juniors. Last week the Gazette ran articles saying 'West Ham are
ready to make a move for Milan striker Mario Balotelli' and that West Ham
has fallen behind Watford and Crystal Palace in the race to sign former
Spurs and Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor.

Look out for their next story in the next few days that Neymar will be
joining West Ham in the summer after a failed attempt by the Hammers in
2010. Some of this stuff is comic genius, just a shame some of our tabloid
friends didn't get the joke and reprinted it seriously. Maybe the Brentwood
Gazette mystery journalist behind these stories should be working for the
Sunday Sport which is under David Sullivan's ownership again.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Does Mexican league hold loan striker clue?
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham chairman David Sullivan said we could be signing a loan striker
from a strange league in the next seven days. That strange league could be
the Ligue MX in Mexico. The striker in question could be French man
Andre-Pierre Gignac who plays Mexican team Tigres UANL.

The 30 year old striker was a former team mate of Dimtri Payet at Marseille
and the French national team and they are understood to remain good friends.

Gignac was linked to West Ham in the last January transfer window previously
scoring 20 goals in 35 appearances in all competitions in French Ligue one
and attracted the attention of some of Europe's top clubs before his move to
Mexico.

Earlier today on Sky Sullivan told viewers "There is a possibility that a
striker could come in on loan in the next seven days with an option to buy
him. He is an overseas striker. If I told you (the league) you wouldn't
believe (it)."

"It's like when we signed Lanzini from, I didn't know what league he was in,
but I call it Saudi Arabia. People said we are signing players from a very
strange league but he has played in higher leagues. This one may not happen
it is just a possibility.If all of our strikers are fit we have probably got
too many strikers anyway"

That is our best guess so far on who the mystery striker might be.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender linked to Roma move
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News
C and H

Reports in Italy claim Roma will look to make a move for West Ham defender
Angelo Ogbonna, despite the player having only moved to Hammers in the
summer and settling in well. The 27-year-old Italian international joined
the Hammers from Juventus just over six months ago. An article in La
Gazzetta dello Sport says the player's services have been offered to the
Giallorossi, who have struggled at times defensively, and they are weighing
up whether to make their interest more concrete. The story has all the hall
mark of an agent inspired story. The West Ham centre back has made 15
appearances this season, 96 clearances and 21 tackles.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham admit striker inquiry
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Exclusive

West Ham have this morning admitted they have made a first inquiry for
Watford's £20 million rated striker Odion Ighalo. The Express had reported
a bid was on for the summer but a top Irons insider revealed exclusively to
ClaretandHugh: "We have already inquired but Watford aren't ready to sell
at the moment. "He could be on the radar again in the summer but then so
could several others – we are determined to secure a 20 goals a season
striker and are working on several options. "We have certainly made an
inquiry for Ighalo and will continue monitoring him – mind you he has dried
up over recent games!"
The 26-year-old Nigerian has been in good form this season, scoring an
impressive 13 goals in the Premier League. He first impressed Irons forthe
first time during their 2-0 defeat at Vicarage Road when Ighalo scored both
goals during an outstanding display.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham strike canny deal for Byram
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News
C and H

West Ham have struck a canny deal for Leeds right back Sam Byram according
the Daily Express. The tabloid claims Everton had agreed a £3.7m initial
transfer fee with Leeds with the Toffees paying a further £1.3m in add-ons
and bonuses for Byram, bringing the overall fee to around £5m. The article
claims Leeds know they would earn around £2m in compensation if their
academy product leaves on a free transfer when his contract expires this
summer. West Ham appear to have hijacked the Everton deal much to the
annoyance of Leeds owner Massimo Cellino who says West Ham have bid less
than Everton's overall offer but admits he does not control tghe player so
there is little he can do about it. "I'm really sorry for Everton because
they really acted like gentlemen, but Sam chose West Ham," Leeds owner
Massimo Cellino confirmed. "I've signed nothing yet but West Ham's bid is
much lower than Everton's. I don't control the player. He wants to go, he
decides where and when."

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Sakho crashes his new Lamborghini
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 18, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Photos have been posted on social media this evening of Diafra Sakho's new
Lamborghini sports car crashed into a front wall and owners car in Emerson
park. The owner of the house and car called Sophie Engstrom posted on
twitter "Great night when Sakho drives into your house & car ??????" "The
fact that no one cares that no one was hurt just asking me if he's injured
says a lot about you all"
She later confirmed no-one had been injured adding "Everyone was fine thank
god !" The incident is thought to have taken place this evening outside
Nelmes United Reformed Church, in
Nelmes Road, Hornchurch, Essex. Sakho posted a message on his own twitter
account after the incident saying "Thank you for the messages. Was involved
in a small car accident this evening. Thankfully no one was hurt." Sakho
posted a photo of his Matte grey Lamborghini on snap chat just two weeks
ago. The striker has been out injured since late November but has resumed
training and is set to fit again early next month.

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Byram: No Leeds loan back
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

Sam Byram is currently at West Ham tying up the final details of his move to
the club from Leeds United, The right back will undergo a medical and is set
to become a West Ham player later today or tomorrow as the club continues to
make their ambitions very public in the transfer market. ClaretandHugh
understands too that Byram will not – as has been suggested – be loaned back
to Leeds for the remainder of the season which suggests that a player may be
on the way out given wage considerations. Mauro Zarate and Nikicia Jelavic
the likely candidates although the club made it clear to us yesterday they
will not entertain the loan deals offered for the Argentinian leaving the
striker as the most likely departure. Byram was born in Essex and is
understood to come from a Hammers-supporting family which – after we had
offered the same personal terms as Everton – made his decision to join the
club pretty simple. Our top source told ClaretandHugh: "We want to ensure
that we do a very thorough assessment of him. We know he's a very good
player of course but want to look at all aspects of his abilities and we can
only do that if he's with us."

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"I thank these men from the bottom of my heart"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Scott A

ClaretandHugh's top blogger and East End boy Scott Alsweiller is 'exiled' in
New York. He lives, breathes, eat and drinks West Ham United and in this
latest piece pays his personal tribute to the two Davids for all they have
done since taking over our great club six years ago.

"There is no other club we would want to be at so for us we have come home
and that's what it's all about" – David Sullivan.

Six years ago Messrs. Sullivan and Gold came in and rescued us. Our
situation was dire. We were on the verge of becoming a footnote to history.
TIFC/WHUFC 1895-2010. An ignominious end to a tradition and club we all
loved. Our owners were broke, and had left the club in deep trouble. It's
difficult to emphasize just how close we were to disappearing entirely.

There were other bidders. But none were ever going to be as personally
involved, and as emotionally attached, as our Davids. Their love for West
Ham is palpable – David Gold played for West Ham Boys as a youngster, and
they've both always been supporters. And it shows. We're unique and blessed
to have them at the helm.

Now, six years after our near collapse, look where we are. Riding high, with
a manager we love, playing football our way – the West Ham Way – and loving
it. It's worth remembering that it hasn't been an easy road to travel.
Nobody is likely to forget Avram Grant, or his successor (although that one
does deserve credit for pulling us back into the top tier at least). But
it's all changed, and that is thanks to the owners.

When you look around the leagues, you'll see few clubs where the owners are
real fans. Far too many are owned by people who only see a business
opportunity. Owners with not even the most tenuous connections with the
clubs they own. Owners who don't share the passion, who don't feel the joy
and despair that comes with being part of a club with a rich history and
camaraderie. Ours are different.

As we move forward into our new home, it's true, they may look for
additional partners. But I hope we never see them selling on simply to take
a profit. And I don't think they're likely to do so. They interact regularly
with us – the fans – and it seems a love of West Ham United is a family
affair as well. Jack Sullivan may have sometimes overstepped the bounds, but
there's no denying that he feels very strongly about the club, and wants to
be a part of it.

Most of us, myself included, will probably never get the chance to
personally thank them for what they've done for us. But the gratitude is
real. And this is one way to express it.

Messrs. Gold and Sullivan; thank you. You've saved, and given back to us,
the club we love. You'll lead us to our new home, and into future glory. We
know that our future in in good hands. Your obvious dedication and
unwavering support will help us onwards as we continue to become leaders in
the League and in Europe. May the next six years be filled with beautiful
football, passionate play, and maybe even some silverware.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart

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Sullivan clarifies Zarate situation
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

David Sullivan has revealed that Mauro Zarate will only be allowed to leave
the club if the injury situation allows it. Talking to Sky Sports the
chairman said: Mauro wants first team football and he realises if everyone
is available then he may be a little bit down the batting order. "So it is
just possible that we would let him go but at this moment in time, we can't
let anybody go until we see our injury situation because we have got so many
strikers injured. "We don't really want to let anybody go but you also don't
want unhappy players, so it is striking that balance and doing what's best
for the player and best for the club"

Zarate has missed the last two matches against Bournemouth and Newcastle. He
has been linked with Malaga and Fiorentina in recent days.
ClaretandHugh revealed earlier that Fiorentina are interested in a loan deal
but quoted our own sources as explaining injuries may rule out a move and
that the club are not interested in loan deals.

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Sullivan looking at loan striker
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 19, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H

West Ham Chairman David Sullivan has told Sky Sports the club could be
signing a loan striker within the next seven days. The co chairman covered
the issue in a wide ranging interview after the club confirmed to
ClaretandHugh they had inquired about Watford's £20 million rated striker
Odion Ighalo. We were told the Hornets were unready to sell at this time and
in his interview Sullivan declared that he couldn't give the name of the
striker he is currently tracking. He said: "We can't comment, it's called
tapping up and you get your knuckles wrapped very severely but we are
looking long term for a 20 goals per season striker. "There is a possibility
that a striker could come in on loan in the next seven days with an option
to buy him. He is an overseas striker. If I told you (the league) you
wouldn't believe (it). It's like when we signed Lanzini from, I didn't know
what league he was in, but I call it Saudi Arabia. People said we are
signing players from a very strange league but he has played in higher
leagues. This one may not happen it is just a possibility.If all of our
strikers are fit we have probably got too many strikers anyway"

He explained how the club went about its business eplaining there are some
friendly agents who have been very lucky for the Irons. He said: " There is
an agent called Will Salthouse who bought us Mr Cresswell, our backup
goalkeeper and Mr Antonio. "He has some very good players including the
Tottenham striker who will not be coming to us by the way . He has brought
us a striker and has been lucky for us. Some agents are very talented and
very good people"

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Could Sam Byram signing spell the end for loan star?
Date: 19th January 2016 at 2:36 pm
Written by: James Pearson | Comments (0)
foreverwestham.com

A deal for Byram could be completed this week
Sam Byram is set to complete a transfer to West Ham United, for a fee of
around £3.5 million. The 22 year old has reportedly turned down Everton, who
offered a higher fee, and decided he wants to join the Hammers instead. £3.5
million seems like a bargain for a talented right back who can also play
further up the pitch, especially considering the fact that he is English
which seems to double or triple usual transfer fees in the Premier League.

If we do secure the services of the youngster this week, it wouldn't be
surprising to see someone leaving the club before the transfer window is
over. Byram is not going to be returning to Leeds on loan, and will go
straight into Slaven Bilic's first team plans which means that to cover his
wages it would suggest that someone will be leaving The Boleyn Ground in the
next couple of weeks.

There have many rumours about where Mauro Zarate will end up, with Malaga
constantly linked with the Argentine throughout the last month or so. But
this seems unlikely as Bilic would want someone as a direct replacement for
Zarate, another attacking midfielder. The most likely could be Carl
Jenkinson.

Jenkinson has been a decent loan acquisition since he first joined last
season, but is currently out of favour at Upton Park. He seems to have a
lack of confidence and James Tomkins has been superior to him since Bilic
moved him to right back. Jenkinson also signed a new Arsenal deal in the
summer. They have Bellerin in that position, but with the possibility of
Mathieu Debuchy leaving this month, that frees up room for Jenkinson as
their second choice right back, instead of going further down the pecking
order at The Boleyn Ground.

If we can keep both, that would be ideal. Jenkinson has made a real impact
here and deserves a chance to stay and prove his worth but if someone needs
to be shifted to keep wages low enough, then it wouldn't be surprising if
the young right back was the player that makes way.

Byram is already a fans favourite after turning down Everton despite them
offering more money. Leeds owner Massimo Cellino said yesterday, "I'm
really sorry for Everton because they really acted like gentlemen, but Sam
chose West Ham".

If Byram does sign this week, then let's hope that he can make the step up
like Aaron Cresswell did when he joined from Ipswich in the Championship.

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David Sullivan gives Sam Byram update as Leeds United star set for Hammers
switch
14:47 19 January 2016
Brad Pinard
London 24

West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has confirmed the club hope to sign Sam
Byram this week. 0 We exclusively revealed on Monday afternoon that Byram
was set to reject Everton in favour of a move to Upton Park and the deal
could be done as soon as this afternoon. Everton bid more money for Byram
but Leeds United owner Massimo Cellino confirmed on Monday night that West
Ham was the likely destination. Sullivan admits Byram was a long-term target
but the Hammers had to move fast. 'We hoped to sign Byram in the summer when
he was out of contract," Sullivan told SkySportsNews. "But in the last few
days we saw he was close to moving to Everton so we had to step in. "We hope
to sign him in the next 24 hours and he has agreed to join us and we have
agreed everything with Leeds. "I wouldn't normally make this public but
Leeds have already done so."

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West Ham to table £6m bid for long-standing target Burak Yilmaz
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Tuesday, January 19, 2016

West Ham are ready to reignite their long-term interest in Galatasaray
striker Burak Yilmaz with a £6million January offer. According to Turkish
radio station RadyoSpor, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is finally ready to
make an offer as he bids to reinforce his frontline this month. It has been
suggested that the free-scoring frontman is considering his options after
nearly four years at Galatasaray, during which time he has hit 64 goals in
just 104 league outings. And now the Hammers could be about to offer the
30-year-old a chance in the Premier League after spending his entire career
in Turkish football. Bilic knows all about Yilmaz's quality having watched
him in action during his time in charge at Besiktas.

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West Ham poised to sign £3.7m Leeds ace
By James Jones - Jan 19, 2016 0

West Ham appear to have pipped Everton to the signing of highly-rated Leeds
United star Sam Byram, as reported by Sky Sports. It looked as if the
Toffees were going to wrap up a deal for the 22-year-old right-back earlier
this week, before West Ham entered the running for his services. The very
well connected @ExWHUemployee claimed earlier this week that we were hoping
to make a move for Byram in the summer when his Elland Road contract
expired, but Everton's interested ultimately forced us to move quickly this
month. There have been different reports surrounding the details of the
deal, with the likes of the London Evening Standard claiming West Ham are
prepared to loan Byram back to the club as part of the deal, while
@ExWHUemployee claims there is no loan option and the two clubs are reached
an agreement that will see Byram join the club immediately. Sky Sports quote
Leeds president Massimo Cellino as saying: "I'm really sorry for Everton
because they action like gentlemen, but Sam chose West Ham."

In a report by the Yorkshire Evening Post, it is claimed Byram's decision to
snub a move to Everton in favour of West Ham will cost Leeds £1.3m in
add-ons, which Everton had agreed to pay alongside of the £3.7m bid they had
accepted. The same report claims West Ham have offered Leeds the same
transfer fee but without any add-ons. Phil Hay, a reporter for the Yorkshire
Evening Post, tweeted earlier that Byram was "heading down to West Ham",
presumably to finalise personal terms.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer news: Sam Byram poised for loan move after £3.7m Hammers
switch
KEN DYER
Evening Standard

Sam Byram was undergoing a medical today prior to joining West Ham from
Leeds for £3.7million. Everton had an offer for the full-back accepted at
the weekend but Byram wanted to think things over and has decided on a move
to Upton Park. West Ham would have preferred to do a deal in the summer as
by then Carl Jenkinson's loan from Arsenal would have expired. However,
Everton's intervention during this transfer window has forced their hand and
it is possible Byram could be loaned out for the rest of the season to give
the 22-year-old regular football.
With West Ham co-owner David Sullivan insisting the club have reached their
wage cap for the season, it seems inevitable one or more players will be
leaving, with striker Mauro Zarate wanted by Malaga and Nikica Jelavic
another possible departure.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham star Diafra Sakho thanks God after crashing £300,000 Lamborghini
Aventador into Mini Cooper
Lewis Dean By Lewis Dean
January 19, 2016 12:19 GMT 1
IBTimes

Diafra Sakho has thanked God after smashing his £300,000 ($430,000)
Lamborghini Aventador into a Mini Cooper in a night-time crash in
Hornchurch. The West Ham striker was driving the supercar through East
London when he apparently lost control and crashed. The Premier League star
was not injured in the accident, which will be welcome news to Hammers boss
Slaven Bilic – Sakho has not featured for the London side since he was
injured in December. He later told fans on Snapchat "Sorry for the scare
guys", before posting on Twitter: "Thank you for the messages. Was involved
in a small car accident this evening. Thankfully no one was hurt."
The incident comes months after Sakho was arrested for a second time in
August last year after allegedly threatening to kill his girlfriend at his
Essex mansion. The 25-year-old Senegalese was bailed after allegedly
assaulting the same woman. The charges were later dropped. ""Following
allegations of assault and malicious communications made against West Ham
and Senegal footballer Diafra Sakho in August, the police have confirmed
there will be no action taken," a statement by Sakho's PR said. "At the
time, Mr Sakho vigorously denied the allegations and this matter has now
been brought to an end following a police investigation."

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Pedro Obiang's agent says client wants to play more, but his future is at
West Ham
HITC
Dan Coombs

Pedro Obiang's agent says his client's future remains at West Ham. Pedro
Obiang's agent has rebuffed suggestions the midfielder could return to Italy
this month. Obiang signed from Sampdoria in the summer, but has been in and
out of the side, partly due to injury. His agent Jose Miguel Gonzalez told
Tuttomercatoweb: "He's unlikely to leave West Ham in January. The club wants
to retain him, he is happy in London and is comfortable with his teammates.
"He would like to play a little more, but it is normal, but there is
competition, and the team is doing very well in the Premier League. "At the
moment I have not received any calls from Italy, Pedro left a great memory
in Serie A and it is normal that there is talk of the interest of the big
teams in his favour." Obiang has made seven starts this season in the
league, with eight appearances coming from the bench. He has completed 90
minutes just three times, and was particularly impressive against
Bournemouth a week ago, but was substituted off at half-time at the weekend
in the 2-1 loss to Newcastle United. Tuttomercatoweb report Napoli are
interested in Obiang, and his agent did a good job of playing both sides,
adding: "Obiang would be perfect for their characteristics. At now, though,
I have not received any call from Napoli."
It is unlikely West Ham would want to sell him after just a few months, and
at just 23, the Spaniard has real potential to develop into an outstanding
player. If he is getting itchy feet about wanting to play more regularly,
the time to assess the situation should be the end of the season rather than
right now.

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Leeds United to lose cash in West Ham Byram deal as chief confirms Everton
snub
LEEDS UNITED have accepted a lower transfer fee from West Ham than what
Everton were willing to pay for defender Sam Byram, according to reports.
By JOE SHORT
PUBLISHED: 06:55, Tue, Jan 19, 2016 | UPDATED: 07:56, Tue, Jan 19, 2016
Express.co.uk

Byram, 22, held talks with Everton and he appeared set to complete a
£3.7million transfer to the Toffees this week. But the Hammers have hijacked
the deal by offering the right-back an immediate role in Slaven Bilic's back
four. "I'm really sorry for Everton because they really acted like
gentlemen, but Sam chose West Ham," Leeds owner Massimo Cellino confirmed.
"I've signed nothing yet but West Ham's bid is much lower than Everton's. "I
don't control the player. He wants to go, he decides where and when."
According to the Daily Star, Bilic's promises of first-team football
overrode Roberto Martinez's reputation for bringing on young talent into
Everton's first team. Leeds and West Ham are expected to complete the deal
by the end of the week. But, as Cellino explained, the Hammers will not
stump up the same fee Everton were willing to pay. As part of Leeds'
agreement with Everton, the Premier League side would have paid a further
£1.3m in add-ons and bonuses for Byram, bringing the overall fee to around
£5m. It is not known exactly how much West Ham are prepared to pay for
Byram, although Leeds know they can earn around £2m in compensation if their
academy product leaves on a free transfer when his contract expires this
summer.

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