Sullivan - Nordtveit is a great addition to our squad
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan believes new signing Havard Nordtveit will be a great addition to the squad and expects him to become a top player for the Club next season.
Nordveit will become Slaven Bilic's first signing of the summer when he joins the Hammers on a free transfer on 1 July. West Ham United have beaten off competition from several top European sides to clinch his signature and the Norway international will leave Borussia Monchengladbach when his contract expires. Mr Sullivan is thrilled to have secured Nordtveit's services on a five-year deal and believes his versatility will be important for the first-team squad next season. Mr Sullivan said: "He's a fantastic utility player who is proven at the highest level. "He is a great addition to our squad and I'm sure the supporters will realise he is a top player by this time next year."
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Hammers to sign Norway star Nordtveit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that Norway international midfielder Havard Nordtveit will join the Club on a free transfer on 1 July. The Borussia Moenchengladbach man will leave the German side upon the expiration of his contract, with the Hammers having beaten off competition from several top European outfits to land their man. Nordtveit, 25, signs on a five-year deal and returns to London six years after leaving Arsenal to join Monchengladbach. He told the Official Website: "It has always been a dream for me to play in the Premier League and now I have a big opportunity to do that for West Ham – I cannot wait to start! "This team has something special, a spirit in the team that I can fit into. I will work hard and hopefully I can get some good moments at this Club. "I'm a player who can play many roles on the pitch, but I'm from Norway so maybe a little bit more running, tackles and try to spread a few balls around me. "I'm looking forward to showing what I can do, but hopefully I have something to help West Ham achieve even more."
Born in the village of Vats in western Norway in June 1990, Nordtveit became the youngest player to represent Haugesund when he was named in the starting line-up in an August 2006 win over Sogndal two months past his 16th birthday. He remained with Haugesund for a further year, before Arsenal took him to the Barclays Premier League for the first time. A defensive midfielder who can also play at the back, Nordtveit made the substitutes' bench at Emirates Stadium but could not force his way into the first team before moving on to Moenchengladbach in December 2010. Before then, loan spells at Salamanca, Lillestrom and 1. FC Nuremburg gave him a flavour of first-team football, setting the Norwegian up for a successful spell in the Bundesliga.
He quickly became a regular for Die Fohlen and played 187 games for the German side in his five-and-a-half seasons there, scoring 12 goals. This past season, Nordtveit showed his versatility by playing as a centre-half and central midfielder during Moenchengladbach's impressive campaign, which saw them finish fourth in the Bundesliga, despite losing their opening five league matches! Nordtveit has also featured prominently for his country, earning 28 caps and scoring two goals since making his debut for Norway in 2011.
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The Big Interview - Havard Nordtveit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's first summer signing, Havard Nordtveit, speaks exclusively to whufc.com ahead of his 1 July arrival in east London...
Havard, welcome to West Ham United. First, tell us how excited you are to be joining the Club...
HN: "Thank you. It has always been a dream for me to play in the Premier League and now I have a big opportunity to do it with West Ham. I can't wait to start. "This team has something special and there's something in the spirit of it that I can fit into. We will see – I'm going to work hard and hopefully I can have have some good moments with the Club."
With the new Stadium sold out, how excited are you to be playing in front of 60,000 fans here week-in, week-out?
HN: "That's football – that's the passion they have. In Germany, we had an average of 52,000 every second week at Borussia-Park, so 100 per cent you have the audience behind you and you can give even more. I'm looking forward to trying out the new Stadium – everyone is saying good things about it."
What can the fans expect from you?
HN: "I'm a player who can play many roles on the pitch, but I'm from Norway, so a little bit more of the running and the tackles and try to spread the balls around me. I'm looking forward to showing what I can do, and hopefully I have something to help West Ham achieve even more."
You're not a stranger to England – you had a spell at Arsenal. Tell us about your spell there, do you think you come back with a point to prove?
HN: "I came to Arsenal when I was 17 and from there I got a lot of first team experience in training and friendlies. I sat on the bench in the Premier League, but never got a minute, so of course it's something I'm dreaming of. Now I'm back, I've had five-and-a-half years in the Bundesliga. Hopefully that experience will help me to come into the game here."
How much has your experience in the Bundesliga improved you as a player?
HN: "Of course. It's first team football. We struggled at the start when I first went there, but we came through the relegation battle and then finished fourth in the second year and lost to Dynamo Kiev in the play-off for the Champions League. We were mid-table the third year, but then came third and got into the Champions League. We played Man City, Sevilla and it's been a really good experience."
You must have been impressed with what you've seen from West Ham this season. One man in particular, Dimitri Payet, has taken a lot of the headlines – how much are you looking forward to playing with him next season?
HN: "He is a fantastic player. He can do something different on the field and I'm really looking forward to meeting him and seeing his qualities. It's a team – and it's not only him who has been really good for West Ham this season. It's a team effort and I'm looking forward to trying to make it even better.
And a word on the manager, Slaven Bilic. How big a part did he play in you joining West Ham?
HN: "Of course it's a big part. He took his time to meet me, talk with me and show me he was interested. What he has done at West Ham speaks for itself and I'm really looking forward to working under the boss."
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Young Hammers midfielder Josh Cullen was in play-off action on Sunday as he played 90 minutes for Bradford City in their 3-1 League One semi-final first leg defeat to Millwall. The Bantams – who were without Cullen's West Ham loan partner Reece Burke due to injury – took the lead with a 13th minute penalty netted by Tony McMahon. But the Lions hit back quickly, equalising two minutes later through Lee Gregory before Steve Morison and Joe Martin gave the visitors a two-goal advantage before the break. Despite late pressure from the hosts, they could not find a way back into the game and now travel to the New Den on Friday with work to be done.
In the Scottish Premiership, Kyle Knoyle helped Dundee United sign off in style on Saturday despite their relegation, winning 4-2 at Kilmarnock. The Terrors took an early lead when Mark Durnan headed home but they were soon behind after Kallum Higginbotham and Tope Obadeyi hit back for the hosts. However, three goals in the final 20 minutes for United saw them end their campaign in style, as Simon Murray notched a fine brace and Harry Souttar put a gloss on the scoreline. Full-back Knoyle completed his eleventh loan appearance in the win, and previously helped the club to a Scottish Cup semi-final earlier this season.
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Havard Nordtveit - Ten Fast Facts
WHUFC.com
Find out more about our first summer signing Havard Nordtveit with our Ten Fast Facts…
- Havard Nordtveit was born and raised in the village of Vats in the district of Haugaland in the far west of Norway.
- Nordtveit was 16 years and two months old when he made his first-team debut for Haugesund in a 2-0 Adeccoligaen win over Sogndal on 20 August 2006.
- Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger personally scouted Nordtveit before bringing the 17-year-old to north London in July 2007.
- The young Nordtveit was a regular for Norway at U17, U19 and U21 levels before making his senior debut at the age of 20 in a 1-0 friendly win over Lithuania in Oslo in June 2011.
- Nordtveit was loaned to Spanish side Salamanca in 2008, before appearing 21 times for Norwegian club Lillestrom the following year, mainly as a right-back.
- A third loan spell from Arsenal saw Nordtveit spend the 2009/10 season with German Bundesliga side 1. FC Nürnberg, where he played predominantly as a defensive midfielder.
- After three-and-a-half years with the Gunners, Nordtveit joined German club Borussia Moenchengladbach on a three-and-a-half year contract in December 2010.
- The Norwegian has appeared at centre-half, defensive midfield, central midfield and right-back for Moenchengladbach, scoring 12 goals in 187 appearances across six seasons.
- The 25-year-old made 20 appearances in UEFA competitions for Moenchengladbach, including six in the UEFA Champions League group stage in 2015/16.
- Nordtveit has made 28 appearances for Norway, including eight during the Scandinavians' recent UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.
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Young Hammers set for Premier League kicks
WHUFC.com
Two local schools will represent the West Ham United Foundation at the Premier League Schools Tournament at Goodison Park this week. Gallions Primary School in east London and Frances Bardsley Academy for Girls based in Romford will put their skills to the test against schools from the 19 other Premier League clubs, with the hope of lifting the trophy. This year the annual tournament will take place at Everton's home Goodison Park, and now in its eleventh year, the tournament comprises of two six-a-side competitions running simultaneously on the day – an Under 11s mixed tournament and an Under 13s girls tournament.
Over 14,000 young people and 1,700 schools have taken part in the tournament this year, with the Foundation having held its own heats to determine who would don the claret and blue at Goodison.
All of the students participating on the day will receive an authentic Premier League experience - wearing their Premier League club kit and walking out of the tunnel to the Premier League anthem. To add to the excitement of the day, the matches will be officiated by top Premier League referees including, Andre Marriner, Michael Jones, Bobby Madeley, Darren Bond, Martin Atkinson and Peter Barnes.
Foundation Community Sports Manager Shamajul Motin said the Premier League scheme was offering local youngsters a once in a life-time opportunity: "It's not often you get the chance to play at a Premier League football stadium, for some of these youngsters it really is a dream come true! To be able to feel like a professional footballer for the day gives them such inspiration to want to go on and achieve.
"It'd be fantastic for them if they could go on and win the tournament but this initiative really is much more than that. An experience like this is something that will stay with them for a life-time and they'll never forget stepping out on a Premier League ground and representing West Ham."
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Stat's a Fact – 2015/16 Season
WHUFC.com
The 2015/16 Barclays Premier League season saw West Ham United set a number of club records.
The most notable was the 62 points collected by the Hammers, which eclipsed the previous high of 57 set by Harry Redknapp's squad in 1998/99.
Slaven Bilic's side also beat Redknapp's 1997/98 selection by scoring 65 goals, nine more than a Hammers squad that included John Hartson, Frank Lampard and Trevor Sinclair.
The 65 goals scored in 38 league matches this season were shared between 16 players, with Dimitri Payet and Andy Carroll leading the way with nine each.
In total, seven different players scored five league goals or more – Payet, Carroll, Michail Antonio, Cheikhou Kouyate, Manuel Lanzini, Mark Noble and Diafra Sakho.
Forty-one of those 65 goals were scored from open play, with 17 from set pieces and four successful penalties – three from Noble and one from Carroll. The Hammers benefitted from just one own-goal, scored by Swansea City's Stephen Kingsley on 7 May.
West Ham smashed their record for the least number of Premier League games lost in a single season, losing just eight to beat the previous low of 13 set in both 1998/99 and 1999/00.
Unsurprisingly, Bilic's men also set a new record low for away defeats in a Premier League season with five – two lower than the seven losses suffered on the road in 2008/09.
Just three of those eight defeats came at home, but that was not quite good enough to match the two home defeats suffered by the Hammers in 1997/98, when they finished eighth.
A seventh-place finish represented West Ham's best since 2001/02, when Redknapp's side collected 53 points and finished with a -9 goal difference.
It was a different story this season, with Slaven Bilic's team achieving a +14 goal difference – the first time since 1985/86 that West Ham have finished a top-flight campaign with a positive goals-for/against record.
As a team, West Ham completed 78% of their passes and enjoyed 49% of possession on average, creating 14.7 shots and 4.9 shots on target per game.
Individually, Payet also topped West Ham's charts for assists (12), shots (69), dribbles (118) and key passes (119) in 2015/16. Aaron Cresswell and Noble each contributed four assists.
Captain Noble was the Hammers' midfield general, making more tackles (103), interceptions (83) and passes (1,924) than any other player.
While Noble was the most prolific passer, Lanzini was the most accurate, completing 88.9% of his passes in 26 Premier League appearances, with Noble (86.4%) in second place.
In the air, it was unsurprisingly Carroll who won the most aerial duels with 112 out of 200 attempted, ahead of Kouyate (87) and Ogbonna (62).
Defensively, Angelo Ogbonna led the way with 161 clearances, while full-back Cresswell made 63 blocks.
Cresswell joined Noble in making a team-high 37 starts and appearances, but it was the No3 who was on the pitch for longer overall – 3,315 minutes to Noble's 3,205.
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Noble - We've had an unbelievable season
WHUFC.com
Reflecting on a disappointing result on the final day of what has been a momentous and unforgettable season; captain Mark Noble said he was struggling to understand how his side had not come away from the Britannia victorious.
The visiting Hammers started with aplomb and asserted their dominance through Michail Antonio who broke the deadlock with a fine shot on the turn following Manuel Lanzini's corner.
The visitors continued to try and extend their advantage, and came close on multiple occasions however it was Stoke who made the most of their chances as Giannelli Imbula equalised before Mame Biram Diouf's headed late winner.
In total, West Ham had 20 shots to Stoke's seven. Speaking at full time, Noble said: "The amount of chances we had today was unbelievable, how we haven't won that game I do not know, I think they probably had two maybe three shots all game, so it's disappointing.
"I think we had four cleared off the line! I might be exaggerating but it seemed to like it didn't go for us. We probably should have finished them off in the first half; we just didn't have that quality. Then set pieces undid us."
The defeat means the Hammers will now have to wait for the outcome of the FA Cup final between Manchester United and Crystal Palace, to determine whether West Ham will finish in a Europa League qualifying position.
The skipper continued: "We'll just have to wait now and see what happens in the cup final, that's our season done so we'll have to wait. Obviously we all hope whatever happened at Old Trafford isn't too serious and everyone is OK. We'll just have to wait and see."
With next weekend's events out of his hands, Noble expressed his pride in this season's achievements, which included setting a new Premier League points total in the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground as well as recording several high-profile victories.
The captain, who has been in inspired form himself throughout, finished by saying: "We have to take this result into context and that is we've had a great season, we come on a long way. Games like today we should have won. We started fantastic in the first half and created chances in the second. Shay Given made some unbelievable saves today, we shouldn't have lost today.
"I've always said this season was probably the most important in the club's history, for sure. Moving stadiums we had to make sure we were a solid Premier League team and we did that midway through the season. We had a small chance at Champions League which was great, now we just have to wait and see what happens."
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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
The Guardian football writer and lifelong Hammer Jacob Steinberg was at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday and still expects West Ham to be playing in Europe next season....
Unfortunately we were not able to secure a top six finish but I thought the Hammers played really well for long spells but were unable to get the crucial second goal.
They ended up paying for it and if Sakho had scored the second goal at the start of the second half they would have come away with the victory.
Unfortunately the lack of ruthlessness in front of goal has cost West Ham, but it has still been a strong season finishing seventh, given the aim was survival at the start of the season.
The football has been great to watch at times and we have had some great wins.
I am still confident the club can qualify for Europe next season and I am hopeful that Manchester United will beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup Final on Saturday.
Maybe the West Ham supporters will turn out at Wembley on Saturday to cheer them on!
I am expecting a busy summer of transfer activity and feel the Club need to sign a striker.
I think they will also look to sign another right back to allow Michail Antonio to play further forward and allow Sam Byram a bit more time to get used to the Premier League.
The Club have already brought in Havard Nordtveit so that area looks to be well covered with four central midfielders.
I think the fans should be proud of what the Club have achieved this season and you could see that by the reception the players got when they left the field at Stoke.
There was a lot of applause and overall I think everyone has enjoyed it.
Despite the defeat at Stoke I think the fans are still celebrating the final ever home win over Manchester United and there is a lot of goodwill.
The last time the Hammers finished in the top seven was 2002 and they finished with a positive goal difference.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily the opinions held by West Ham United
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Young Hammers named in England U19 squad
WHUFC.com
Young Hammers Reece Oxford and Sam Howes have been named in England's U19 squad for their pre-European Championship trip to Mexico.
The Young Lions will enjoy a double header against their Central American hosts on 4 and 6 June before they kick-off their Euros campaign in Germany on 12 July against France in the group stages.
Centre-back Oxford, who has featured on twelve occasions for the Hammers first team this season, and goalkeeper Howes have been regulars in Aidy Boothroyd's squads in qualifying for the competition and will hope to be involved in Germany this summer.
The 24-man group will train just outside Mexico City until 8 June, before the summer's tournament gets underway on 11 July.
After facing France, England will go to battle with the Netherlands and Croatia to complete the group stages. The youngsters are aiming high at the Championships, having won the U17 competition two years ago with many of the same faces.
Oxford broke into Slaven Bilic's first team during pre-season last summer and featured in the side's opening Premier League fixture as they were 2-0 winners against Arsenal at the Emirates.
This season, having added to his experience with the senior side, the versatile teenager captained the Development Squad to victory in the U21 Premier League Cup.
18-year-old stopper Howes has played between the sticks in Claret and Blue for both the U18 and U21 sides this campaign, and travelled with the first team for the final three league fixtures in the 2015/16 season with Spaniard Adrian out injured.
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Nordtveit deal confirmed
May 16, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
BKHammer
The Norwegian International will be West Ham's first signing for the upcoming 2016/17 season after the official site announced it this morning. Our very own ExWHUEmployee told us about this deal months ago and that the club would not announce it until the season was over.
The Norwegian star will put pen to paper on a 5 year contract on 1st July 2016 on a free transfer when the window officially opens.
The Borussia Moenchengladbach man will leave the German side upon the expiration of his contract, with the Hammers having beaten off competition from several top European outfits to land their man.
He told the Official Website: "It has always been a dream for me to play in the Premier League and now I have a big opportunity to do that for West Ham – I cannot wait to start!
"This team has something special, a spirit in the team that I can fit into. I will work hard and hopefully I can get some good moments at this Club.
"I'm a player who can play many roles on the pitch, but I'm from Norway so maybe a little bit more running, tackles and try to spread a few balls around me.
"I'm looking forward to showing what I can do, but hopefully I have something to help West Ham achieve even more."
Born in the village of Vats in western Norway in June 1990, Nordtveit became the youngest player to represent Haugesund when he was named in the starting line-up in an August 2006 win over Sogndal two months past his 16th birthday.
He remained with Haugesund for a further year, before Arsenal took him to the Barclays Premier League for the first time.
A defensive midfielder who can also play at the back, Nordtveit made the substitutes' bench at Emirates Stadium but could not force his way into the first team before moving on to Moenchengladbach in December 2010.
Before then, loan spells at Salamanca, Lillestrom and 1. FC Nuremburg gave him a flavour of first-team football, setting the Norwegian up for a successful spell in the Bundesliga.
He quickly became a regular for Die Fohlen and played 187 games for the German side in his five-and-a-half seasons there, scoring 12 goals.
This past season, Nordtveit showed his versatility by playing as a centre-half and central midfielder during Moenchengladbach's impressive campaign, which saw them finish fourth in the Bundesliga, despite losing their opening five league matches!
Nordtveit has also featured prominently for his country, earning 28 caps and scoring two goals since making his debut for Norway in 2011.
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Dutch defeat for Dev Squad
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's Development Squad have lost the Final of the 2016 ICTG Tournament - following yet another penalty shootout.
Earlier this month the young Hammers won the Premier League Under 21s Cup by virtue of a shootout having eventually overcome Hull City in a tense, two-legged affair.
However this afternoon Terry Westley's side were unable to emulate their earlier achievment with a 6-5 spot kick defeat against Brazilian outfit Atletico Paranaense, after the match ended goalless.
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Monday musings: Scintillating season ends on a sour note
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th May 2016
By: Graeme Howlett
It was a hugely emotional night as West Ham United FC bade farewell to its spiritual home, The Boleyn Ground, last Tuesday evening. The club - plus several thousand misty-eyed fans - waved goodbye to E13 after 112 years with a star-studded show hosted by TV's Ben Shepherd and Bianca Westwood, co-presenter of the KUMB.com Podcast. And the team did their bit too, signing off with an unforgettable 3-2 win against Manchester United, thus denying Louis Van Gaal's side a Champions League berth and keeping alive the Irons' own hopes of qualifying for Europe.
To do so, Slaven Bilic's side needed to equal or better Southampton's result against FA Cup finalists Crystal Palace in their final fixture of the season at Stoke on Sunday afternoon. And it all looked rosy at half time when the Hammers led through Michail Antonio's ninth goal since joining the club for £7million from Nottingham Forest. However whilst much has changed at the Boleyn Ground this season, Bilic's team upholds the long-held tradition of possessing the ability to self-destruct - which, perhaps, is as key an ingredient of the much-vaunted 'West Ham way' as anything else.
Giannelli Imbula restored parity just ten minutes after the restart, much to the annoyance of the manager who had seen his team waste a string of good chances beforehand. And with West Ham pushing forward in search of a winning goal, having learned that Southampton were leading comfortable at St. Mary's, a Stoke counter led to a corner that was nodded home by the less-than-prolific Mame Biram Diouf, netting his fifth goal of a largely barren campaign. Defeat meant the Hammers ended the season in seventh place; a position most fans would have taken in August - but probably not since Christmas. And whilst that means the club missed out on qualifying for the Europa League automatically, there is still hope for continental football at the Olympic Stadium next season.
For that to occur, The Irons simply need Manchester United to beat Crystal Palace at Wembley in the FA Cup final next week. The Reds, having already qualified for the Europa League will pass their spot down to the seventh-placed team - i.e. West Ham - should they beat the Eagles. And in a season when West Ham have beaten Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool - three times - anything less would seem a little unjust.
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Hodgson snubs Hammers for Euro 2016
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Roy Hodgson has named his England squad for the 2016 European Championships - and not unexpectedly, there are no Hammers involved. Mark Noble, Andy Carroll and Aaron Cresswell's excellent form this season has been entirely ignored by the 68-year-old national coach, who has chosen to stick with his tried and tested favourites. Making a complete mockery of his earlier insistence that only form players will be picked, Jack Wilshire - who made his fiirst Premier League appearance of the season for Arsenal last weekend - has been included in the provisional 26-man list. And Manchester United's 18-year-old forward Marcus Rashford is also in - at the expense of in-form strikers suuch as Carroll and Sunderland's Jermain Defoe. England will play Russia (11 June), Wales (16 June) and Slovakia (20 June) in the group phase at Euro 2016, the final for which takes place on 10 July. Only 23 of the 26 will make the flight to France. West Ham's only representatives in the tournament will be Dimitri Payet for France and central defender James Collins (Wales).
England Euro 2016 squad
Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Fraser Forster (Southampton), Tom Heaton (Burnley).
Defenders: Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), John Stones (Everton), Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur), Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Danny Rose (Tottenham Hotspur), Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool).
Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Ross Barkley (Everton), Fabian Delph (Manchester City), Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), Danny Drinkwater (Leicester City), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), James Milner (Liverpool), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Andros Townsend (Newcastle United), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal).
Strikers: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Jamie Vardy (Leicester City), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United).
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Bournemouth reject bids for Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie from West Ham
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 16/05/16 10:54pm
SSN
Bournemouth have rejected a £25m bid from West Ham for striker Callum Wilson and midfielder Matt Ritchie, Sky sources understand.
Hammers co-owner David Sullivan said last week that the club was plotting a £24m bid for a top striker in France and a £25m offer for another player in England.
He said: "We put in a bid today [Monday May 10] for €30m (£23.7m) for a player and other bids will be going in. We are going to make a £20m or £25m bid for a player in England this week. So whatever happens, we'll bring a top striker in."
West Ham had been linked with Liverpool striker Christian Benteke but it appears 24-year-old Wilson, who has been targeted alongside Ritchie in a combined bid, could be at the top of their list.
Wilson, who joined from Coventry in the summer of 2014, made a big impact early in his first Premier League season, scoring five goals in his first six games with three of those coming in Bournemouth's 4-3 win over the Hammers.
But his season was derailed by a serious knee injury which kept him out from the end of September for more than six months.
Scotland international Ritchie has been a regular in the Bournemouth side this season, scoring four goals, and he has proved a bargain since joining the club from Swindon for £400,000 in January 2013.
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Mark Noble says West Ham's season a success despite Stoke loss
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 16/05/16 12:34pm
SSN
Mark Noble says West Ham can look back on a 'great season' despite failing to secure European football on the final day.
Victory at Stoke on Sunday would have guaranteed Europa League football for the Hammers in their first season at the Olympic Stadium.
But after going 1-0 ahead, Slaven Bilic's men ended up losing 2-1, finishing seventh in the table and requiring Manchester United to beat Crystal Palace in Saturday's FA Cup final to hand them a Euro lifeline.
Noble, quoted on West Ham's official website, said of the Stoke match: "We have to take this result in context and that is we've had a great season. We have come on a long way.
"I've always said this season was probably the most important in the club's history. Moving stadiums we had to make sure we were a solid Premier League team and we did that midway through the season.
"We had a small chance at Champions League which was great, and now we just have to wait and see what happens in the cup final."
Michail Antonio put West Ham ahead in the 23rd minute and they were dominant from then - failing to convert some good chances along the way - until Stoke levelled through a Giannelli Imbula strike shortly after half-time.
Potters goalkeeper Shay Given then made a point-blank double save between two goal-line clearances from team-mate Glenn Whelan, who on the second occasion hacked away a ball that was inches from fully crossing after coming off Cheikhou Kouyate.
Mame Diouf subsequently wrapped up Stoke's come-from-behind triumph with an 88th-minute header.
Noble admitted he had been left baffled at how the visitors did not come away with a victory rather than a loss.
"The amount of chances we had was unbelievable - how we haven't won that game I do not know," the 29-year-old said.
"I think they probably had two, maybe three shots all game, so it's disappointing. I think we had four cleared off the line. We probably should have finished them off in the first half; we just didn't have that quality. Then set pieces undid us."
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Martinez scores on Hammers debut to reach semis
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 16, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Antonio Martinez scored his first goal for the Hammers from the penalty spot, before Grady Diangana sealed a 2-0 win over FC Uitgeest! Martinez said on twitter "My debut could not have been better! Happy to score my first goal and to help the team win!!#3games3wins" One West Ham fan who has seen the player in action said "Toni Martinez has been at West Ham for about a month and has only played one u21 but has an unreal mentality, better than some first teamers" A West Ham United U21 squad including the likes of Martin Samuelsen and Lewis Page have travelled to Uitgeest, northern Holland to compete in the annual ICTG youth tournament. The Hammers won all three games in Pool A on Saturday against Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro, Dutch teams AZ Alkmaar and FC Uitgeest. The Hammers now face Panathinaikos in the semi final at 11.10am this morning with a final scheduled for 2.45pm this afternoon.
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Hodgson snubs Hammers for England squad
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 16, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
England Manager Roy Hodgson has announced his picks and standby players for the provisional England Squad at 11am ahead of the last friendlies before the European Championships in France. Once again there is no room for Hammers Mark Noble, Andy Carroll, Michail Antonio and Aaron Cresswell.
England provisional squad: Forster, Hart, Heaton; Bertrand, Cahill, Clyne, Smalling, Stones, Walker; Alli, Barkley, Delph, Dier, Drinkwater, Henderson, Lallana, Milner, Sterling, Townsend, Wilshere; Kane, Rashford, Rooney, Sturridge, Vardy
After the squad announcement, England will play three friendlies, against Turkey (22nd May), Australia (27th May) and Portugal (2nd June), before flying out to their training base in Chantilly ahead of their opening group stage match against Russia on 11th June.
Both Slaven Bilic and Michail Antonio challenged Hodgson for Antonio's inclusion last week but it seems to have fallen on deaf ears.
One West Ham fan, Kris Johnson tweeted England saying "If it's without one of Noble, Carroll, Antonio or Cresswell I'm supporting Payet and France."
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West Ham win on penalties to reach final
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 16, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The West Ham's under 21's have won their semi final against Greek Panathinaikos in Holland this afternoon to reach the final. Tournament organisers say West Ham was the attacking team for the majority of the game, but the Greek defense appeared hard to beat. Three minutes before full time Panathinaikos scored and they celebrated the goal as if it where the decider in the Tournament final. The West Ham youngsters tried to get the ball into the box as many times as possible late in injury time. It paid off and in the very last second of injury time a Greek foul resulted in a penalty for the Hammers. West Ham new boy , Antonio Martínez stepped up and converted it from the spot to make it 1-1. After extra time the results was still a stalemate but the Hammers won 5-3 on penalties to reach the Tournament final which kicks off at 2.45pm this afternoon.West Ham now face Brazilian side Atletico Paranaense in the final. The annual ICTG youth tournament is being played in Uitgeest, northern Holland. The Hammers won all three games in Pool A on Saturday against Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro, Dutch teams AZ Alkmaar and FC Uitgeest.
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Hodgson's questionable squad is frustrating reading for Hammers fans
Date: 16th May 2016 at 2:13 pm
Written by: Matt Bourne | Comments (0)
ForeverWestHam
Roy Hodgson has chosen not to include any West Ham players in his 26-man squad for Euro 2016. Although many Hammers fans were not expecting Hodgson to pick any West Ham stars, the fact that he has opted for some questionable names to be included in the squad over reliable West Ham performers will definitely frustrate fans. Firstly, the impact of Marcus Rashford has been unbelievably overhyped this season. Yes, he has scored a few goals and is young but his inclusion comes far too early, especially when a reliable goalscorer with international experience in Jermaine Defoe completely misses out. The likes of Fabian Delph and Adam Lallana make the team ahead of Michail Antonio and Mark Noble. How this has happened is genuinely baffling and says a lot about the man in charge. Antonio has out performed most of the England midfielders picked in the squad but there was never a suggestion that Hodgson would opt for the pacey winger. The England manager was in attendance for the 3-2 victory over Manchester United. In a game where Michail Antonio scored an excellent header and Mark Noble got man of the match, Hodgson was most likely watching the ineffective Marcus Rashford up front. This just proves how much the Hammers have been overlooked by the England manager this season. It is quite concerning that the Hodgson barely recognises what the English West Ham players have achieved this season. Aaron Cresswell, Mark Noble and Michail Antonio should all have stood a chance to represent their country at some point this year but you get the impression that Hodgson never intended to give them the opportunity to prove themselves. The only advantage is that the Hammers' English stars can give themselves a long rest over the summer in order to be fit and firing for the start of next season. Let's hope another solid campaign in 2016/17 eventually shows Hodgson what he has been missing.
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WHY ANDY CARROLL SHOULD HAVE BEEN IN THE EUROS SQUAD
By Iain Dale
16 May 2016 at 13:45
Guest Post by Sathesh Alagappan
[Note: this was written prior to Roy Hodgson's squad announcement].
At the beginning of the season, few would have backed Andy Carroll for an England place. The imposing target man had hit a nadir, his career tarnished by constant injuries. Indeed, many Hammers fans were calling for him to be sold by the club.
Carroll has shown great resilience since then, though. Coming back from injury he has looked back to his best, scoring 6 goals in his last 10 Premier League appearances. Fans were particularly impressed by his stunning hat-trick against Arsenal. In the wake of this, some pundits have voiced their approval of Carroll's England credentials.
However, Hodgson has not been swayed, and has signalled his intention to stick with his tried and trusted forwards…
"Maybe before we start wanting to throw out the guys who have done so well for the latest shout, the latest ice cream flavour, we should show a little bit of respect to what they have done as well."
One can understand Hodgson's loyalty to the players who got him through qualifying. However, these comments do a great injustice to Carroll. He has demonstrated his quality this season, offers England a unique threat upfront, and has a proven track record at international level. To be frank, Hodgson was foolish to completely dismiss him.
There are likely to be 5 spaces open for strikers in Hodgson's squad. Kane, Vardy and Rooney look certain to be included, with Sturridge, Walcott, and Welbeck all in contention. Admittedly Kane and Vardy have been in sparkling form this season, and fully merit their places. However, Carroll's performances compare favourably to the other candidates.
Carroll has made 24 appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring a total of 9 goals in 1279 minutes. This works out at 1 goal for every 132 minutes of football played. This is significantly better than captain Rooney, who averages just 1 goal every 318 minutes. It also better than Welbeck, who clocks in at 145 minutes per goal. Sturridge is only marginally ahead of Carroll, with a goal every 111 minutes. Carroll's return is even more impressive considering the majority of his appearances this season have come off the substitutes bench. [NOTE: This was written before Danny Welbeck's injury]
Perhaps the player Carroll would be most likely to displace is Theo Walcott. Again, Walcott's figures are significantly inferior to Carroll's. The Arsenal forward averages a goal for every 275 minutes he has played this season. It is easy to see why Walcott has been widely criticized of late, and it seems that his current place in Hodgson's squad is based on past glories.
Aerial ability
Few can argue with the fact that Carroll is one of the world's best target men. At 6 feet 4 inches and powerfully built, he towers above defenders, posing a dangerous aerial presence. Indeed, this season he has won on average 3.8 aerial battles per match, significantly more than any of the other English forwards in contention. Now, even the most die-hard Hammers fan would not suggest that Carroll should start for England. However, his obvious aerial prowess makes him ideally suited to come on as an impact sub, as he has done countless times at Upton Park this season. When England are chasing goals late on and must resort to a more direct style, Carroll can be the perfect candidate to terrorise tired defences.
Proven pedigree
It is also worth remembering that Andy Carroll is not some unknown quantity. He has performed well at the highest level for England. At Euro 2012, he scored a vital goal against Sweden which helped ensure England's progression to the quarter-finals. The goal in question demonstrated all the qualities that make Carroll such a valuable asset. He jumped an astonishing 2 feet 2 inches, leaving the Swedish defenders bamboozled as he powerfully rocketed a header in from 13 yards out. This is the kind of raw physical power that it is often impossible to mitigate against. There's no doubt that he could prove a real handful for most international defences.
A useful option
Ultimately, many will say that a Carroll recall is unlikely. After all, he's been out of the international scene for nearly 3 years. Furthermore, England's playing style has changed considerably since then, no longer relying on the direct style that Carroll thrives off. However, Carroll offers an extra dimension to England's attack. He is the ultimate Plan B, the battering ram that can help break down the most stubborn of defences. He may not be the most aesthetically pleasing player, but he certainly is effective, and England would be missing a trick by leaving him at home.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, May 17
Monday, May 16
Daily WHUFC News - 16th May 2016
Stoke City 2-1 West Ham United
WHUFC.com
Substitute Mame Biram Diouf scored a late winner for Stoke as they recorded
a 2-1 win over West Ham in the final game of the season but the Hammers
could still qualify for the Europa League.
Slaven Bilic's side looked to be in pole position after Michail Antonio had
fired them into the lead in the first half. But second half strikes from
Giannelli Imbula and Diouf's late header ensured Stoke came away with all
three points at the Britannia Stadium. With Southampton beating Crystal
Palace the Hammers are now relying on Manchester United to beat Palace in
the FA Cup Final next weekend to keep alive their hopes of playing in
Europe. Bilic will be wondering how his side failed to get anything from the
game after they created the best chances and were just millimetres from
scoring the crucial second goal after Cheikhou Kouyate's shot was cleared
off the line by Glenn Whelan. With Dimitri Payet ruled out with an ankle
injury the Hammers faced an extra challenge of trying to secure all three
points. But they still dominated the first half proceedings and got off to
the perfect start when they opened the scoring on 23 minutes. Manuel
Lanzini's deep corner picked out Winston Reid who headed the ball back for
Antonio who produced a clever turn inside the box and fired a low shot past
Shay Given. After scoring the crucial equaliser against Manchester United in
the final home game on Tuesday, Antonio was determined to show off his new
celebration once again as he celebrated his ninth goal of the season for the
Hammers. Antonio was causing all kinds of problems for the Stoke defence and
came close to adding his second of the game on 26 minutes when he burst
towards the box and struck the ball inches over the bar. Antonio then turned
provider sixty seconds later as he played the perfect ball into Diafra Sakho
inside the box and he drilled a low shot just wide of the post. It was all
one-way traffic and the Hammers continued to mount pressure on the Stoke
goal. They came close again on 34 minutes when James Tomkins played a neat
ball into Cheikhou Kouyate who saw his deflected shot fall inches over the
bar. The Hammers were strong defensively and only had one threat to deal
with on 39 minutes when Bojan cut inside from the left hand side and drilled
a low shot just wide of the goal but Darren Randolph appeared to have the
shot well covered diving low to his left.
West Ham kept pushing for a second goal and should have doubled their lead
on 51 minutes. Antonio burst clear of the Stoke defence once again before
crossing in for Sakho who only had Given to beat but he fired his
close-range shot straight at the Republic of Ireland keeper . The Hammers
were made to pay as Stoke drew level on 55 minutes with their first shot on
target as Imbula struck a left-foot shot past Randolph into the corner of
the net. Bilic made two changes bringing on Enner Valencia and Emmanuel
Emenike as he looked to find that crucial second goal. And the change almost
paid off straight away as Valencia blew a golden chance to make it two for
the Hammers on 70 minutes. Mark Noble's deep cross into the box picked out
the Ecuador international who headed the ball just over the bar. With
results going against the Hammers, they needed a second goal to guarantee
European football for next season and they were desperately unlucky not to
clinch a winner. Lanzini's corner on 76 minutes fell to Kouyate who saw his
shot blocked by Whelan. The rebound fell to Valencia whose close-range shot
was blocked by Given and then the Stoke keeper produced another fine save to
deny Emenike. You could sense it was not going to be West Ham's day after
Whelan then came to Stoke's rescue once again on 78 minutes when Valencia's
over head kick fell to Kouyate who got the slightest of touches and his shot
was cleared off the line by the Stoke midfielder. Stoke substitute Charlie
Adam tried an audacious chip from his own half and his 50 yard shot was
tipped over the bar by Randolph. Despite all the Hammers dominance, it was
Stoke who grabbed a late winner on 88 minutes when Diouf directed a
close-range header into the roof of the net.
The Hammers will now be relying on United to do them a big favour at Wembley
next weekend and keep alive their dreams of playing in the Europa League.
Stoke City: Given, Cameron, Shawcross, Wollscheid, Pieters, Whelan, Walters,
Arnautovic, Imbula, Bojan (Adam 78), Joselu (Diouf 73)
Subs not used: Haugaard, Bardsley, Muniesa, Shaqiri, Crouch
Bookings: Imbula, Diouf
West Ham: Randolph, Tomkins (Moses 86), Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Noble,
Kouyate, Antonio, Lanzini, Sakho (Emenike 61), Carroll (Valencia 66)
Subs not used: Spiegel, Byram, Collins, Obiang
Bookings: Kouyate
Referee: Mike Jones
Attendance: 27,721
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Hammers face wait on Europe
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will have to wait until the outcome of next week's FA Cup
final to discover whether they will enter the 2016/17 UEFA Europa League
qualifying rounds. Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Stoke City leaves them seventh in
the Barclays Premier League table, but should Manchester United win the FA
Cup final against Crystal Palace, the Hammers will still qualify for Europe
by virtue of their league position. If the Red Devils are victorious at
Wembley on Saturday, the Hammers will enter the Europa League at the third
qualifying round stage.
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Valencia - It is difficult to understand
WHUFC.com
Enner Valencia could not understand how West Ham United failed to win their
final Barclays Premier League fixture of the season at Stoke City. The
Hammers dominated for long periods both before and after Michail Antonio had
given the visitors the lead at the Britannia Stadium. However a succession
of missed chances and miraculous saves – including one from Shay Given to
deny Valencia – and goal line clearances from the Potters meant Slaven
Bilic's side ended scarcely believable 2-1 losers. "It was a very tough
result to take for us, because in the first half it was all about West Ham,
then in the second half they managed to score two goals out of nothing,"
said the No11, whose overhead kick also led to Glenn Whelan's amazing
clearance from Cheikhou Kouyate's goal-bound flick with the scores level at
one-all. "It is difficult to understand how we didn't win the game because
we had three chances cleared off the line and were so close to getting the
second goal, but it just wouldn't go in. "It's the end of my second season
here at West Ham and overall this season has been a happy one for us as a
team, because we have finished seventh in the table."
For Valencia, defeat at Stoke brought an end to a campaign that brought five
goals and three assists in 24 appearances in Claret and Blue – highlighted
by a match-winning double at AFC Bournemouth in January. Next up for the
26-year-old is South America's premier international competition, the Copa
America, which celebrates its centenary with a mouth-watering tournament
hosted by the United States. Ecuador, who have made an outstanding start to
2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying, will kick-off against Group B favourites
Brazil in Pasadena, California on 4 June, before tackling Peru in Glendale,
Arizona four days later and outsiders Haiti in East Rutherford, New Jersey
on 12 June. "Now, I have a short time to be with my family and I will then
start to prepare for the Copa America," he explained. "We are in a group
with a massive team in Brazil, but we have a very good chance to get through
to the next stage because Ecuador is doing very well in qualification for
the 2018 World Cup. "We also have Peru and Haiti in our group and we hope to
have a very good Copa America. It will be played in the United States, too,
where I scored against England, so I am looking forward to it very much!"
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Bilic - We were simply the better team
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic has no doubts that West Ham deserved to finish the season with
a victory and is disappointed that his team missed out on a top six finish.
The Hammers manager felt his side dominated the game at the Britannia
Stadium and should have been celebrating another victory which would have
guaranteed European football next season. After Michail Antonio fired West
Ham into the lead, the away side had a number of chances to extend their
lead and were millimetres from adding a second when Cheikhou Kouyate's shot
was cleared off the line by Glenn Whelan.
But despite having 20 shots in total, the Hammers were made to pay for their
missed opportunities when Stoke scored a dramatic late winner to secure all
three points. The Hammers can still qualify for the Europa League next
season if Manchester United beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup Final next
weekend and Bilic says it will be just rewards after a memorable campaign.
Bilic said: "No matter if we are going for sixth place we have to win this
kind of game. From the way we played we deserved to get something. "We were
simply the better team and after we went one goal in front it should have
been two or three. "We had big chances and then they equalised but we could
have scored after that. How many times have you seen this in football that
if you don't score the other team goes and gets something and it was one of
those games. "I am very disappointed because we lost sixth place but on the
other hand I can't be negative when we have played like this. "When Cheikhou
had that shot off the line you were just waiting for someone to blow the
ball over the line but it didn't! We are gutted because we deserved to
finish the season with a win because we were the better team than Stoke. "If
Manchester United beat Palace we will still qualify and hopefully they are
going to do it. Despite the defeat, Bilic is still proud of the job his
players have achieved and feels it has been a memorable campaign in the
final ever season at the Boleyn Ground. Bilic added: "It has been a great
season. Apart from Leicester we have been praised the whole season and this
has been very important for us with the last year at the Boleyn Ground. "We
are now moving into the new Stadium and we should be very proud. We have a
new adventure and I told the guys to rest and have a good six weeks. "Some
of the boys will go to the Euros but we will then start again and hopefully
have the same pattern."
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West Ham rely on Man Utd for Europe
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 15th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's hopes of featuring in European competition next season
rely on Manchester United beating Crystal Palace in next week's FA Cup
Final. After ending the campaign in 7th place having been overtaken by
Southampton today, West Ham will only enter the Europa League next season IF
Manchester - who have already qualified for the competition - beat the
Eagles at Wembley. That would ensure a further space would be available for
the next highest-placed Premier League team which happens to be West Ham.
Champions Leicester, runners-up Arsenal and third-place Tottenham have
qualified for the group stages of the Champions League next season, whilst
Manchester City will enter the Champions League play-offs. Manchester United
and Southampton have qualified for the group stage of the Europa League,
whilst West Ham will join the qualifying rounds if Alan Pardew's side fail
to beat the former.
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ExWHUEmployee Exclusive: Transfer Targets Named and Departures Confirmed
May 15, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
ExWHUEmployee
Today was a really disappointing result. We dominated the first half and I
thought Ogbonna was really showing his class. I think he will be even
better next year and I will stick my head out and say he will be an early
contender for Hammer of the Year. I believe he has a lot of qualities and
as he adapts further to the Premier League he will get better and better. I
also thought Lanzini was looking good too. We had chances to score and as
always didn't take them. This is the story of our season and perhaps our
history in some respects.
The chairman are fully aware of how much we need a regular goalscorer. I
have spoken myself with DS and he has expressed how much we need one and how
he feels Payet's talents are not utilised as much as they should as we don't
have someone consistently putting away the chances he creates. Who that
forward will be is unclear. I have regularly told how Lacazette is the
number one target and it remains that way. He is the one that all efforts
will turn to. We are preparing a near £30m bid for him. The transfer will
smash our current £15m record with Andy Carroll, who picked up an injury at
the end of the match. Of course there are other top targets: Batshuayi is
another top target and again we will make moves for him but we face a lot of
competition for his signature. Vardy was the player who I spoke about last
week and we are prepared to activate a release clause and double his salary
to sign the player, whether he will want to come is a different matter. The
list of forwards that we have is around 10 (including three Argentinians and
Ibrahimović). Most of which I have covered in previous columns and we will
sign at least one other forward.
We will bring in another right back too. I spoke last week again of these
targets which include: Gregory van der Wiel, his PSG teammate Serge Aurier,
Debuchy of Arsenal, Rafael da Silva the ex-Manchester United right back and
a couple of other French right backs. Slav also has a couple from his
Turkish days that he is interested in too.
I reported in my fanzine column that we were interested in wingers from
clubs that could potentially be relegated and they both have gone down now.
The targets were Townsend (who has an £8m release clause) and today's
goalscorer Wijnaldum, who we have been interested in previously and Redmond
of Norwich City. Tore, from Turkey is another potential signature. There
has been some interest in Walcott and the player is apparently keen to come
but we are unlikely to pay his wage demands, for a player who is injury
prone. . We have a clear policy to avoid injury prone players now.
Remember we have already signed Harvard Nordtveit, a Norwegian defensive
midfielder, this signature should be confirmed on the official site in the
next few days.
The game against Manchester United was special and the perfect sign off for
the stadium that we all love. The reporting of the bottle incident after
the match was a very poor effort by the press in my eyes and one that didn't
tell the true story. Yes the bottles shouldn't have been thrown, it was
disgusting and should have no place in football, however there is a build up
to the event. Firstly I cannot understand why Green Street was not shut.
It took me 35 minutes to walk from the station to The Ribman, a journey
which usually takes five. At times it felt like I was about to get crushed
as there was just too many people trying to fit down the road with moving
cars, parked cars and police horses and vehicles. The police seriously
underestimated how many people would show without tickets and were regularly
shouting and pushing fans into spaces and directions where they couldn't go.
People in the Boleyn had been drinking from very early on and there is no
way the coach should have been going past at the time that it did, into a
packed Green Street. The police were very close to creating another
disaster outside that ground and the whole story has been underplayed. Even
at the end of the match when we were trying to film "The West Ham Way TV"
footage the police had formed a line spreading the width of the street and
were moving everyone away from the stadium for some apparent reason. As is
the case with most police officers nowadays unfortunately, you were unable
to ask them anything without getting shouted at either.
The Manchester United game was obviously billed as the last game at Upton
Park and people have taken offence to the fact that Jack Sullivan had tried
to arrange a game to support the ladies team. I understand the fact that
people saw Bobby Moore switching off the lights as the fitting end and that
there should be no more games but the fact is there are a few charity
matches scheduled to take place there anyway. The ladies game is just one
more and a chance for those that perhaps didn't get tickets in ballots to
say goodbye to the stadium. I understand both points of view and think if
the fans want the ladies game cancelled then all other matches should be
(although one has already taken place). To read some of the comments
directed towards Jack though was very disappointing. I can assure you that
his intentions were only to raise money to help the ladies football team.
The club/Jack stood to make no money from this and in fact would have made a
loss because of the cost to steward the event and so on. All money was to
go to the ladies team and that was his intentions. Yes perhaps it could
have been marketed differently, maybe if it had been announced way in
advance of the Manchester United game, people wouldn't have reacted so much
and there has been a few mistakes with how it has been billed but the
intentions were good. I have met Jack and speak to him regularly, both he
and Dave Jnr both support many good causes around the club. This was the
intentions here. Whether it was the right move to do this game, the poll
shall decide, but it has to be said that the Sullivans meant no malice by
this game.
Jack will be future chairman of the club, joint with his brother and they
have to start learning the ropes sooner or later. It is like most father
and son businesses' the youngster learns from his dad step by step as he is
growing up and this is no different.
The summer promises to be an exciting one and there will be 7-8 players
leaving including O'Brien, Song, Moses, Emineke, Lee (who is set to announce
this departure in the next few days), Chambers, Valencia (with a likely move
to China or Spain) and possibly Sakho. Sakho is a frustrating player. On
his day he is brilliant but he is too inconsistent. It is felt that Slaven
maybe losing patience with him over his recent injuries, lack of clinical
finishing, reaction to being dropped and requests for a pay rise. David
Sullivan has a soft spot for him having brought him over from France and so
whether he stays or not is unclear.
Another player who is wanting a pay rise is Reece Oxford, well more so his
agent wants one. Talk of him moving to Manchester City, Arsenal and
Manchester United have been instigated by his agent as a way of getting the
club to discuss a new deal with him. I cannot see him leaving myself and if
we secure Europe, with Manchester United winning the cup, he would figure in
a lot of those games if he isn't loaned out for the season.
The preseason promises to be an exciting one. The West Ham Way will have a
new website launching this week. The website is a massive upgrade on the
current one and I am sure you will all love the new format. We will
continue to produce videos over the summer and again have exciting guests
lined up.
The fanzine sold really well and the IPhone download charted again. I am
delighted with how the site has grown and to be able to donate almost £5k to
charities this season has given me the greatest pleasure. I would really
like to thank all of the West Ham Way team (there is about 25) from the
bottom of my heart for all the effort they have put into everything and a
massive thank you to the fans that have supported us too. We will continue
to strive to improve and welcome any feedback on the new site launch.
Have a great summer and you know where to stay for the breaking transfer
news first.
COYI
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Stoke 2-1 West Ham: Hammers beaten by late Mame Biram Diouf header
By Patrick Surlis
Last Updated: 15/05/16 6:44pm
SSN
West Ham must rely on a favour from Man Utd to qualify for the Europa League
after they were beaten 2-1 by Stoke at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday
afternoon. Michail Antonio put the visitors in front with a low finish on 23
minutes but they were pegged back by Giannelli Imbula's strike shortly after
half-time. The Hammers squandered several opportunities to restore their
lead and were floored by Mame Biram Diouf's 88th-minute header as Stoke
earned their first win since March 19. After a fantastic season West Ham
started the day with hopes of a fifth-place finish, but defeat leaves them
seventh in the table and they will only secure a Europa League spot if
United beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final. As for the hosts, the
final-day victory secures a top-half finish for Mark Hughes' side, who end
the campaign ninth. Bilic made one change from the dramatic win over Man
United, replacing the injured Dimitri Payet with James Tomkins. The
reshuffle allowed Antonio to move further forward and he opened the scoring
after 23 minutes, latching on to Winston Reid's knock-down from a corner to
turn and fire past Shay Given. Stoke failed to muster a shot on target in a
disappointing first half, and the visitors had further chances to extend
their advantage before the break. Diafra Sakho dragged an effort past the
near post after good work from the lively Antonio, before Sakho slipped at
the crucial moment after holding off the challenge of Philipp Wollscheid.
The wasteful finishing continued with Andy Carroll and Sakho guilty either
side of the interval, and Stoke made them pay when Imbula drilled home the
equaliser after 55 minutes. The Stoke midfielder was allowed onto his
stronger left foot and arrowed a firm shot past Darren Randolph in the West
Ham goal. Despite the setback, Bilic's side looked more likely to grab a
winner and the game became stretched in the final stages. Enner Valencia
headed over from four yards and Emmanuel Emenike and Antonio were both
denied by Given in quick succession. West Ham thought they had their goal
with 11 minutes to play, but Glenn Whelan cleared Cheikhou Kouyate's
goal-bound shot off the line with Given beaten. Charlie Adam nearly caught
Randolph out with a long-range strike from inside his own half, but Hughes'
side looked happy to settle for a point after a run of one win from nine
games. But they snatched victory with a bullet header from Diouf, who darted
in front of Valencia at the near post to power past the West Ham 'keeper.
Paul Merson's verdict
West Ham were the much better team in the first half. Stoke were getting
booed and the fans were getting very frustrated and they went in 1-0 at
half-time after a good goal by Antonio.
West Ham turned it on again in the second half and should have scored,
Valencia had one great chance which Given saved and at 2-0 it would have
been game over. Ryan Shawcross says he is proud Stoke finished their season
on a high after beating West Ham 2-1. But they didn't and the game turned,
Imbula made it 1-1 then West Ham had a couple more chances, one of which was
cleared off the line. Then at the end Stoke had a corner and Diouf made it
2-1 with a good header. You do feel for West Ham, but you watch Stoke and
that was them all over. They were poor first half, but then 15-20 minutes
into the second half they turned it on, and when they did they were very,
very good.
Player ratings
Stoke: Given (8), Pieters (6), Wollscheid (5), Shawcross (6), Cameron (6),
Whelan (5), Imbula (8), Bojan (6), Arnautovic (6), Walters (6, Joselu (5)
Subs used: Adam (6), Diouf (7), Bardsley (6)
West Ham: Randolph (6), Tomkins (6), Reid (6), Ogbonna (7), Cresswell (6),
Noble (6), Kouyate (7), Antonio (7), Lanzini (6), Sakho (6), Carroll (5)
Subs used: Moses (6), Emenike (6), Valencia (5)
Man of the match: Giannelli Imbula
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West Ham starlet Reece Oxford puts new contract on hold over concerns about
first-team playing time
14:06, 15 MAY 2016 UPDATED 14:46, 15 MAY 2016
BY JOHN CROSS
The 17-year-old midfielder or defender has been offered a long-term deal by
the Hammers but is also being eyed by Arsenal and both Manchester clubs
The Mirror
Reece Oxford is ready to keep West Ham waiting before committing himself to
a new contract. Talented teenager Oxford wants to get more playing time on
the pitch before deciding whether to sign a new deal. Mirror Sport has
revealed the Hammers have offered the 17-year-old a new long-term contract
to try to tie down their most sought-after youngster. Arsenal , Manchester
City and Manchester United have all been watching developments, and could be
tempted to make a bid this summer. Oxford, who has two years left on his
current deal, is seen as an England star of the future and can operate both
in midfield and central defence. But after making a spectacular start to the
season with a Man of the Match display in West Ham's opening day win at
Arsenal he has not been a regular, making just five appearances in 2016 and
starting just one of those games. Londoner Oxford was even one of the poster
boys for England's new kit launch in March because he is seen as such a star
name of the future. After captaining the Irons side that won this season's
U21 Premier League Cup, he wants first-team football to help his career
development and is set to wait before committing himself to the Hammers.
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Europa fixture clash at the Olympic Stadium
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Should West Ham qualify for the Europa League by virtue of Manchester United
winning the FA Cup they will face a new challenge in where to play early
home games in the early rounds. UK Athletics have exclusive use of the
former Olympic Stadium until 1st August meaning the Hammers would need to
find another ground or ask special permission to swap a possible home and
away tie for the third round. Should West Ham qualify, they would join the
competition in the third qualifying round with the first leg scheduled on
28th July and the second leg on 4th August. It takes seven days to transform
the osstadium from an athletics stadium to football mode and West Ham are
set to play their first game there on the 7th August against Juventus in a
pre-season friendly. The Sainsbury's Anniversary Games will see a two day
Diamond League meeting take place on Friday 24th July and Saturday 25th
July, with an IPC Grand Prix coinciding with National Paralympic Day on
Sunday 26th July. With the a seven day turn around, the very earliest the
stadium could be ready for a football game is 2nd August, two days the
second leg on the 4th August but this would require the agreement of UK
Athletics. West Ham would need to fit in another home match in August should
they progress to the play-off stage with the first leg scheduled on 18th
August and the second leg on the 25th August
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham earn £85m for seventh place finish
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham earnings from TV rights have topped £85m this season. The Hammers
received an equal share of UK TV rights worth £21,968,793 which all twenty
Premier League clubs get, next comes an equal share of Overseas TV worth
£27,757,371 plus another equal share of £4,932,630 from the commercial
central pool. The Hammers had 15 games broadcast live on UK TV earning them
a further £13,162,740 in facility fees. Finally, each club earns a merit
payment based on their finishing position. The seventh place merit payment
gets another £17,428,572. Add that all up and the seventh place position
earns the Hammers £85,250,106. We must now want to see if Manchester United
win the FA Cup to keep our European dreams alive. West Ham picked up
£76,339,564 for finishing twelfth last season so it is a significant
financial improvement of over £10m.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Substitute Mame Biram Diouf scored a late winner for Stoke as they recorded
a 2-1 win over West Ham in the final game of the season but the Hammers
could still qualify for the Europa League.
Slaven Bilic's side looked to be in pole position after Michail Antonio had
fired them into the lead in the first half. But second half strikes from
Giannelli Imbula and Diouf's late header ensured Stoke came away with all
three points at the Britannia Stadium. With Southampton beating Crystal
Palace the Hammers are now relying on Manchester United to beat Palace in
the FA Cup Final next weekend to keep alive their hopes of playing in
Europe. Bilic will be wondering how his side failed to get anything from the
game after they created the best chances and were just millimetres from
scoring the crucial second goal after Cheikhou Kouyate's shot was cleared
off the line by Glenn Whelan. With Dimitri Payet ruled out with an ankle
injury the Hammers faced an extra challenge of trying to secure all three
points. But they still dominated the first half proceedings and got off to
the perfect start when they opened the scoring on 23 minutes. Manuel
Lanzini's deep corner picked out Winston Reid who headed the ball back for
Antonio who produced a clever turn inside the box and fired a low shot past
Shay Given. After scoring the crucial equaliser against Manchester United in
the final home game on Tuesday, Antonio was determined to show off his new
celebration once again as he celebrated his ninth goal of the season for the
Hammers. Antonio was causing all kinds of problems for the Stoke defence and
came close to adding his second of the game on 26 minutes when he burst
towards the box and struck the ball inches over the bar. Antonio then turned
provider sixty seconds later as he played the perfect ball into Diafra Sakho
inside the box and he drilled a low shot just wide of the post. It was all
one-way traffic and the Hammers continued to mount pressure on the Stoke
goal. They came close again on 34 minutes when James Tomkins played a neat
ball into Cheikhou Kouyate who saw his deflected shot fall inches over the
bar. The Hammers were strong defensively and only had one threat to deal
with on 39 minutes when Bojan cut inside from the left hand side and drilled
a low shot just wide of the goal but Darren Randolph appeared to have the
shot well covered diving low to his left.
West Ham kept pushing for a second goal and should have doubled their lead
on 51 minutes. Antonio burst clear of the Stoke defence once again before
crossing in for Sakho who only had Given to beat but he fired his
close-range shot straight at the Republic of Ireland keeper . The Hammers
were made to pay as Stoke drew level on 55 minutes with their first shot on
target as Imbula struck a left-foot shot past Randolph into the corner of
the net. Bilic made two changes bringing on Enner Valencia and Emmanuel
Emenike as he looked to find that crucial second goal. And the change almost
paid off straight away as Valencia blew a golden chance to make it two for
the Hammers on 70 minutes. Mark Noble's deep cross into the box picked out
the Ecuador international who headed the ball just over the bar. With
results going against the Hammers, they needed a second goal to guarantee
European football for next season and they were desperately unlucky not to
clinch a winner. Lanzini's corner on 76 minutes fell to Kouyate who saw his
shot blocked by Whelan. The rebound fell to Valencia whose close-range shot
was blocked by Given and then the Stoke keeper produced another fine save to
deny Emenike. You could sense it was not going to be West Ham's day after
Whelan then came to Stoke's rescue once again on 78 minutes when Valencia's
over head kick fell to Kouyate who got the slightest of touches and his shot
was cleared off the line by the Stoke midfielder. Stoke substitute Charlie
Adam tried an audacious chip from his own half and his 50 yard shot was
tipped over the bar by Randolph. Despite all the Hammers dominance, it was
Stoke who grabbed a late winner on 88 minutes when Diouf directed a
close-range header into the roof of the net.
The Hammers will now be relying on United to do them a big favour at Wembley
next weekend and keep alive their dreams of playing in the Europa League.
Stoke City: Given, Cameron, Shawcross, Wollscheid, Pieters, Whelan, Walters,
Arnautovic, Imbula, Bojan (Adam 78), Joselu (Diouf 73)
Subs not used: Haugaard, Bardsley, Muniesa, Shaqiri, Crouch
Bookings: Imbula, Diouf
West Ham: Randolph, Tomkins (Moses 86), Reid, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Noble,
Kouyate, Antonio, Lanzini, Sakho (Emenike 61), Carroll (Valencia 66)
Subs not used: Spiegel, Byram, Collins, Obiang
Bookings: Kouyate
Referee: Mike Jones
Attendance: 27,721
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers face wait on Europe
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will have to wait until the outcome of next week's FA Cup
final to discover whether they will enter the 2016/17 UEFA Europa League
qualifying rounds. Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Stoke City leaves them seventh in
the Barclays Premier League table, but should Manchester United win the FA
Cup final against Crystal Palace, the Hammers will still qualify for Europe
by virtue of their league position. If the Red Devils are victorious at
Wembley on Saturday, the Hammers will enter the Europa League at the third
qualifying round stage.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valencia - It is difficult to understand
WHUFC.com
Enner Valencia could not understand how West Ham United failed to win their
final Barclays Premier League fixture of the season at Stoke City. The
Hammers dominated for long periods both before and after Michail Antonio had
given the visitors the lead at the Britannia Stadium. However a succession
of missed chances and miraculous saves – including one from Shay Given to
deny Valencia – and goal line clearances from the Potters meant Slaven
Bilic's side ended scarcely believable 2-1 losers. "It was a very tough
result to take for us, because in the first half it was all about West Ham,
then in the second half they managed to score two goals out of nothing,"
said the No11, whose overhead kick also led to Glenn Whelan's amazing
clearance from Cheikhou Kouyate's goal-bound flick with the scores level at
one-all. "It is difficult to understand how we didn't win the game because
we had three chances cleared off the line and were so close to getting the
second goal, but it just wouldn't go in. "It's the end of my second season
here at West Ham and overall this season has been a happy one for us as a
team, because we have finished seventh in the table."
For Valencia, defeat at Stoke brought an end to a campaign that brought five
goals and three assists in 24 appearances in Claret and Blue – highlighted
by a match-winning double at AFC Bournemouth in January. Next up for the
26-year-old is South America's premier international competition, the Copa
America, which celebrates its centenary with a mouth-watering tournament
hosted by the United States. Ecuador, who have made an outstanding start to
2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying, will kick-off against Group B favourites
Brazil in Pasadena, California on 4 June, before tackling Peru in Glendale,
Arizona four days later and outsiders Haiti in East Rutherford, New Jersey
on 12 June. "Now, I have a short time to be with my family and I will then
start to prepare for the Copa America," he explained. "We are in a group
with a massive team in Brazil, but we have a very good chance to get through
to the next stage because Ecuador is doing very well in qualification for
the 2018 World Cup. "We also have Peru and Haiti in our group and we hope to
have a very good Copa America. It will be played in the United States, too,
where I scored against England, so I am looking forward to it very much!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic - We were simply the better team
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic has no doubts that West Ham deserved to finish the season with
a victory and is disappointed that his team missed out on a top six finish.
The Hammers manager felt his side dominated the game at the Britannia
Stadium and should have been celebrating another victory which would have
guaranteed European football next season. After Michail Antonio fired West
Ham into the lead, the away side had a number of chances to extend their
lead and were millimetres from adding a second when Cheikhou Kouyate's shot
was cleared off the line by Glenn Whelan.
But despite having 20 shots in total, the Hammers were made to pay for their
missed opportunities when Stoke scored a dramatic late winner to secure all
three points. The Hammers can still qualify for the Europa League next
season if Manchester United beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup Final next
weekend and Bilic says it will be just rewards after a memorable campaign.
Bilic said: "No matter if we are going for sixth place we have to win this
kind of game. From the way we played we deserved to get something. "We were
simply the better team and after we went one goal in front it should have
been two or three. "We had big chances and then they equalised but we could
have scored after that. How many times have you seen this in football that
if you don't score the other team goes and gets something and it was one of
those games. "I am very disappointed because we lost sixth place but on the
other hand I can't be negative when we have played like this. "When Cheikhou
had that shot off the line you were just waiting for someone to blow the
ball over the line but it didn't! We are gutted because we deserved to
finish the season with a win because we were the better team than Stoke. "If
Manchester United beat Palace we will still qualify and hopefully they are
going to do it. Despite the defeat, Bilic is still proud of the job his
players have achieved and feels it has been a memorable campaign in the
final ever season at the Boleyn Ground. Bilic added: "It has been a great
season. Apart from Leicester we have been praised the whole season and this
has been very important for us with the last year at the Boleyn Ground. "We
are now moving into the new Stadium and we should be very proud. We have a
new adventure and I told the guys to rest and have a good six weeks. "Some
of the boys will go to the Euros but we will then start again and hopefully
have the same pattern."
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West Ham rely on Man Utd for Europe
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 15th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's hopes of featuring in European competition next season
rely on Manchester United beating Crystal Palace in next week's FA Cup
Final. After ending the campaign in 7th place having been overtaken by
Southampton today, West Ham will only enter the Europa League next season IF
Manchester - who have already qualified for the competition - beat the
Eagles at Wembley. That would ensure a further space would be available for
the next highest-placed Premier League team which happens to be West Ham.
Champions Leicester, runners-up Arsenal and third-place Tottenham have
qualified for the group stages of the Champions League next season, whilst
Manchester City will enter the Champions League play-offs. Manchester United
and Southampton have qualified for the group stage of the Europa League,
whilst West Ham will join the qualifying rounds if Alan Pardew's side fail
to beat the former.
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ExWHUEmployee Exclusive: Transfer Targets Named and Departures Confirmed
May 15, 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
ExWHUEmployee
Today was a really disappointing result. We dominated the first half and I
thought Ogbonna was really showing his class. I think he will be even
better next year and I will stick my head out and say he will be an early
contender for Hammer of the Year. I believe he has a lot of qualities and
as he adapts further to the Premier League he will get better and better. I
also thought Lanzini was looking good too. We had chances to score and as
always didn't take them. This is the story of our season and perhaps our
history in some respects.
The chairman are fully aware of how much we need a regular goalscorer. I
have spoken myself with DS and he has expressed how much we need one and how
he feels Payet's talents are not utilised as much as they should as we don't
have someone consistently putting away the chances he creates. Who that
forward will be is unclear. I have regularly told how Lacazette is the
number one target and it remains that way. He is the one that all efforts
will turn to. We are preparing a near £30m bid for him. The transfer will
smash our current £15m record with Andy Carroll, who picked up an injury at
the end of the match. Of course there are other top targets: Batshuayi is
another top target and again we will make moves for him but we face a lot of
competition for his signature. Vardy was the player who I spoke about last
week and we are prepared to activate a release clause and double his salary
to sign the player, whether he will want to come is a different matter. The
list of forwards that we have is around 10 (including three Argentinians and
Ibrahimović). Most of which I have covered in previous columns and we will
sign at least one other forward.
We will bring in another right back too. I spoke last week again of these
targets which include: Gregory van der Wiel, his PSG teammate Serge Aurier,
Debuchy of Arsenal, Rafael da Silva the ex-Manchester United right back and
a couple of other French right backs. Slav also has a couple from his
Turkish days that he is interested in too.
I reported in my fanzine column that we were interested in wingers from
clubs that could potentially be relegated and they both have gone down now.
The targets were Townsend (who has an £8m release clause) and today's
goalscorer Wijnaldum, who we have been interested in previously and Redmond
of Norwich City. Tore, from Turkey is another potential signature. There
has been some interest in Walcott and the player is apparently keen to come
but we are unlikely to pay his wage demands, for a player who is injury
prone. . We have a clear policy to avoid injury prone players now.
Remember we have already signed Harvard Nordtveit, a Norwegian defensive
midfielder, this signature should be confirmed on the official site in the
next few days.
The game against Manchester United was special and the perfect sign off for
the stadium that we all love. The reporting of the bottle incident after
the match was a very poor effort by the press in my eyes and one that didn't
tell the true story. Yes the bottles shouldn't have been thrown, it was
disgusting and should have no place in football, however there is a build up
to the event. Firstly I cannot understand why Green Street was not shut.
It took me 35 minutes to walk from the station to The Ribman, a journey
which usually takes five. At times it felt like I was about to get crushed
as there was just too many people trying to fit down the road with moving
cars, parked cars and police horses and vehicles. The police seriously
underestimated how many people would show without tickets and were regularly
shouting and pushing fans into spaces and directions where they couldn't go.
People in the Boleyn had been drinking from very early on and there is no
way the coach should have been going past at the time that it did, into a
packed Green Street. The police were very close to creating another
disaster outside that ground and the whole story has been underplayed. Even
at the end of the match when we were trying to film "The West Ham Way TV"
footage the police had formed a line spreading the width of the street and
were moving everyone away from the stadium for some apparent reason. As is
the case with most police officers nowadays unfortunately, you were unable
to ask them anything without getting shouted at either.
The Manchester United game was obviously billed as the last game at Upton
Park and people have taken offence to the fact that Jack Sullivan had tried
to arrange a game to support the ladies team. I understand the fact that
people saw Bobby Moore switching off the lights as the fitting end and that
there should be no more games but the fact is there are a few charity
matches scheduled to take place there anyway. The ladies game is just one
more and a chance for those that perhaps didn't get tickets in ballots to
say goodbye to the stadium. I understand both points of view and think if
the fans want the ladies game cancelled then all other matches should be
(although one has already taken place). To read some of the comments
directed towards Jack though was very disappointing. I can assure you that
his intentions were only to raise money to help the ladies football team.
The club/Jack stood to make no money from this and in fact would have made a
loss because of the cost to steward the event and so on. All money was to
go to the ladies team and that was his intentions. Yes perhaps it could
have been marketed differently, maybe if it had been announced way in
advance of the Manchester United game, people wouldn't have reacted so much
and there has been a few mistakes with how it has been billed but the
intentions were good. I have met Jack and speak to him regularly, both he
and Dave Jnr both support many good causes around the club. This was the
intentions here. Whether it was the right move to do this game, the poll
shall decide, but it has to be said that the Sullivans meant no malice by
this game.
Jack will be future chairman of the club, joint with his brother and they
have to start learning the ropes sooner or later. It is like most father
and son businesses' the youngster learns from his dad step by step as he is
growing up and this is no different.
The summer promises to be an exciting one and there will be 7-8 players
leaving including O'Brien, Song, Moses, Emineke, Lee (who is set to announce
this departure in the next few days), Chambers, Valencia (with a likely move
to China or Spain) and possibly Sakho. Sakho is a frustrating player. On
his day he is brilliant but he is too inconsistent. It is felt that Slaven
maybe losing patience with him over his recent injuries, lack of clinical
finishing, reaction to being dropped and requests for a pay rise. David
Sullivan has a soft spot for him having brought him over from France and so
whether he stays or not is unclear.
Another player who is wanting a pay rise is Reece Oxford, well more so his
agent wants one. Talk of him moving to Manchester City, Arsenal and
Manchester United have been instigated by his agent as a way of getting the
club to discuss a new deal with him. I cannot see him leaving myself and if
we secure Europe, with Manchester United winning the cup, he would figure in
a lot of those games if he isn't loaned out for the season.
The preseason promises to be an exciting one. The West Ham Way will have a
new website launching this week. The website is a massive upgrade on the
current one and I am sure you will all love the new format. We will
continue to produce videos over the summer and again have exciting guests
lined up.
The fanzine sold really well and the IPhone download charted again. I am
delighted with how the site has grown and to be able to donate almost £5k to
charities this season has given me the greatest pleasure. I would really
like to thank all of the West Ham Way team (there is about 25) from the
bottom of my heart for all the effort they have put into everything and a
massive thank you to the fans that have supported us too. We will continue
to strive to improve and welcome any feedback on the new site launch.
Have a great summer and you know where to stay for the breaking transfer
news first.
COYI
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stoke 2-1 West Ham: Hammers beaten by late Mame Biram Diouf header
By Patrick Surlis
Last Updated: 15/05/16 6:44pm
SSN
West Ham must rely on a favour from Man Utd to qualify for the Europa League
after they were beaten 2-1 by Stoke at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday
afternoon. Michail Antonio put the visitors in front with a low finish on 23
minutes but they were pegged back by Giannelli Imbula's strike shortly after
half-time. The Hammers squandered several opportunities to restore their
lead and were floored by Mame Biram Diouf's 88th-minute header as Stoke
earned their first win since March 19. After a fantastic season West Ham
started the day with hopes of a fifth-place finish, but defeat leaves them
seventh in the table and they will only secure a Europa League spot if
United beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final. As for the hosts, the
final-day victory secures a top-half finish for Mark Hughes' side, who end
the campaign ninth. Bilic made one change from the dramatic win over Man
United, replacing the injured Dimitri Payet with James Tomkins. The
reshuffle allowed Antonio to move further forward and he opened the scoring
after 23 minutes, latching on to Winston Reid's knock-down from a corner to
turn and fire past Shay Given. Stoke failed to muster a shot on target in a
disappointing first half, and the visitors had further chances to extend
their advantage before the break. Diafra Sakho dragged an effort past the
near post after good work from the lively Antonio, before Sakho slipped at
the crucial moment after holding off the challenge of Philipp Wollscheid.
The wasteful finishing continued with Andy Carroll and Sakho guilty either
side of the interval, and Stoke made them pay when Imbula drilled home the
equaliser after 55 minutes. The Stoke midfielder was allowed onto his
stronger left foot and arrowed a firm shot past Darren Randolph in the West
Ham goal. Despite the setback, Bilic's side looked more likely to grab a
winner and the game became stretched in the final stages. Enner Valencia
headed over from four yards and Emmanuel Emenike and Antonio were both
denied by Given in quick succession. West Ham thought they had their goal
with 11 minutes to play, but Glenn Whelan cleared Cheikhou Kouyate's
goal-bound shot off the line with Given beaten. Charlie Adam nearly caught
Randolph out with a long-range strike from inside his own half, but Hughes'
side looked happy to settle for a point after a run of one win from nine
games. But they snatched victory with a bullet header from Diouf, who darted
in front of Valencia at the near post to power past the West Ham 'keeper.
Paul Merson's verdict
West Ham were the much better team in the first half. Stoke were getting
booed and the fans were getting very frustrated and they went in 1-0 at
half-time after a good goal by Antonio.
West Ham turned it on again in the second half and should have scored,
Valencia had one great chance which Given saved and at 2-0 it would have
been game over. Ryan Shawcross says he is proud Stoke finished their season
on a high after beating West Ham 2-1. But they didn't and the game turned,
Imbula made it 1-1 then West Ham had a couple more chances, one of which was
cleared off the line. Then at the end Stoke had a corner and Diouf made it
2-1 with a good header. You do feel for West Ham, but you watch Stoke and
that was them all over. They were poor first half, but then 15-20 minutes
into the second half they turned it on, and when they did they were very,
very good.
Player ratings
Stoke: Given (8), Pieters (6), Wollscheid (5), Shawcross (6), Cameron (6),
Whelan (5), Imbula (8), Bojan (6), Arnautovic (6), Walters (6, Joselu (5)
Subs used: Adam (6), Diouf (7), Bardsley (6)
West Ham: Randolph (6), Tomkins (6), Reid (6), Ogbonna (7), Cresswell (6),
Noble (6), Kouyate (7), Antonio (7), Lanzini (6), Sakho (6), Carroll (5)
Subs used: Moses (6), Emenike (6), Valencia (5)
Man of the match: Giannelli Imbula
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West Ham starlet Reece Oxford puts new contract on hold over concerns about
first-team playing time
14:06, 15 MAY 2016 UPDATED 14:46, 15 MAY 2016
BY JOHN CROSS
The 17-year-old midfielder or defender has been offered a long-term deal by
the Hammers but is also being eyed by Arsenal and both Manchester clubs
The Mirror
Reece Oxford is ready to keep West Ham waiting before committing himself to
a new contract. Talented teenager Oxford wants to get more playing time on
the pitch before deciding whether to sign a new deal. Mirror Sport has
revealed the Hammers have offered the 17-year-old a new long-term contract
to try to tie down their most sought-after youngster. Arsenal , Manchester
City and Manchester United have all been watching developments, and could be
tempted to make a bid this summer. Oxford, who has two years left on his
current deal, is seen as an England star of the future and can operate both
in midfield and central defence. But after making a spectacular start to the
season with a Man of the Match display in West Ham's opening day win at
Arsenal he has not been a regular, making just five appearances in 2016 and
starting just one of those games. Londoner Oxford was even one of the poster
boys for England's new kit launch in March because he is seen as such a star
name of the future. After captaining the Irons side that won this season's
U21 Premier League Cup, he wants first-team football to help his career
development and is set to wait before committing himself to the Hammers.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Europa fixture clash at the Olympic Stadium
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Should West Ham qualify for the Europa League by virtue of Manchester United
winning the FA Cup they will face a new challenge in where to play early
home games in the early rounds. UK Athletics have exclusive use of the
former Olympic Stadium until 1st August meaning the Hammers would need to
find another ground or ask special permission to swap a possible home and
away tie for the third round. Should West Ham qualify, they would join the
competition in the third qualifying round with the first leg scheduled on
28th July and the second leg on 4th August. It takes seven days to transform
the osstadium from an athletics stadium to football mode and West Ham are
set to play their first game there on the 7th August against Juventus in a
pre-season friendly. The Sainsbury's Anniversary Games will see a two day
Diamond League meeting take place on Friday 24th July and Saturday 25th
July, with an IPC Grand Prix coinciding with National Paralympic Day on
Sunday 26th July. With the a seven day turn around, the very earliest the
stadium could be ready for a football game is 2nd August, two days the
second leg on the 4th August but this would require the agreement of UK
Athletics. West Ham would need to fit in another home match in August should
they progress to the play-off stage with the first leg scheduled on 18th
August and the second leg on the 25th August
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham earn £85m for seventh place finish
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 15, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham earnings from TV rights have topped £85m this season. The Hammers
received an equal share of UK TV rights worth £21,968,793 which all twenty
Premier League clubs get, next comes an equal share of Overseas TV worth
£27,757,371 plus another equal share of £4,932,630 from the commercial
central pool. The Hammers had 15 games broadcast live on UK TV earning them
a further £13,162,740 in facility fees. Finally, each club earns a merit
payment based on their finishing position. The seventh place merit payment
gets another £17,428,572. Add that all up and the seventh place position
earns the Hammers £85,250,106. We must now want to see if Manchester United
win the FA Cup to keep our European dreams alive. West Ham picked up
£76,339,564 for finishing twelfth last season so it is a significant
financial improvement of over £10m.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, May 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th May 2016
Preview - Stoke City
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United face their final Barclays Premier League game of the season on Sunday when they head to Stoke City.
After Tuesday's dramatic Farewell Boleyn victory over Manchester United kept European qualification in their hands, the Britannia Stadium clash is sure to have and edge to it as Slaven Bilic's men look to secure UEFA Europa League football.
Victory would mean the Hammers would finish no lower than sixth – and could come fifth should Manchester United fail to beat AFC Bournemouth, but defeat could see Southampton and Liverpool leapfrog them.
So there is plenty riding on the 3pm kick-off as West Ham look to finish off a memorable season in style.
Stoke will finish ninth, tenth or eleventh in the table, so will want victory themselves to ensure a top half spot.
However, they have been in poor form of late, losing four of their last six games and winning none of them.
The history
West Ham and Stoke have met on 89 previous occasions, with the Hammers winning 34 and Stoke 32.
The first Football League meeting was in the Hammers' first season in the competition – 1919/20, with Stoke emerging 2-1 victors on that day.
In more recent times draws have been the order of the day, with the last three games ending all-square.
Earlier this season the Potters visited the Boleyn Ground in the middle of West Ham's attacking injury crisis and went back to the Midlands with a 0-0 draw.
The match
Team news
West Ham United
The Hammers only have one absentee in the shape of goalkeeper Adrian, who is sidelined with a minor calf problem.
Diafra Sakho is likely to retain his place in the team after scoring on his return to the starting XI against Manchester United.
Stoke City
The Potters are without midfielder Stephen Ireland, who suffered a broken leg in training this week.
Goalkeepers Jack Butland and Shay Given remain sidelined, as do Ibrahim Afellay, Glen Johnson and Marc Wilson.
Match info
Sunday's match referee is Mike Jones. He will be assisted by Marc Perry and Mark Scholes. The fourth official is Geoff Eltringham.
Stoke are winless in six league matches (D2, L4).
They have gone four home games without a victory (D2, L2). Failure to beat West Ham will seem them equal their longest-ever winless home Premier League run.
The Potters have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine league games.
West Ham have only lost one of their last 12 league games (W6, D5).
They have scored in each of those games, their longest-ever scoring run in the competition.
The Hammers are unbeaten in five away league games (W2, D3), scoring at least two goals in each of those matches.
Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info
Tickets for West Ham United supporters for this game have SOLD OUT.
Click here for the latest travel news on the trains and here for the roads.
A mixture of sun and cloud is expected in Stoke on Sunday. Temperatures will peak at 15C (59F).
If you can't make it to the game our digital channels are the place to follow all the action. The whufc.com Match Centre will have live audio commentary and social media updates, along with in-running stats, photos and more. Meanwhile, use the hashtag #STKWHU to get involved in the conversation on social.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Delighted Diangana turns professional
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that explosive winger Grady Diangana has signed professional terms with the club.
Following impressive displays for the U18s and Development Squad this season, the 18-year-old south Londoner has put pen to paper on a two-year contract.
Speaking pitchside at the Boleyn Ground after committing his future to the Hammers, Diangana beamed: "I'm very, very happy to have signed my professional deal. I've been working towards this moment for a long, long time now. I'm really raring to go now.
"I just had a huge grin on my way, I was very, very happy. I was told after a training session which was a surprise but it made it even better.
"It's very proud moment for my family; it's a very special moment."
This term, Diangana netted 7 goals in 14 league games for Steve Potts' U18s before moving up to the Development Squad where he scored against Swansea City.
Looking back at a highly prosperous season, Diangana continued: "It's great to see the staff show faith in me and my ability. They trust the ability I have and I am very grateful for that.
"I am very pleased with my season. I've done well with my age group the U18s, then stepped up to the U21s, did well but could do better. Overall I should have got more goals.
"It's also great training with the first team. I'm not used to that speed so it is a good learning curve. It's a massive step up so I realised how big a step it is into the first team. But it's a step I am confident I can one day make."
Having reached his boyhood dream of turning professional, the youngster is already looking forward to next season.
He stated his goals as: "My targets for next season are to train more regularly with the first team, be around them, get used to it and the pace of the game. Then see what happens from there really.
"I haven't seen the stadium myself but what I've seen from pictures and the boys that have been, it looks amazing. I'm sure it'll feel amazing playing in that stadium, I can't wait!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manchester United bus attack: Suspect arrested
BBC.co.uk
Police released images of three men they still wish to speak to after Tuesday's attack
A man has been arrested in connection with an attack on Manchester United's team bus outside West Ham's Boleyn Ground.
The suspect, 28, handed himself in at an east London Police station on Friday, the Met said.
He arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and was bailed until mid-August.
Images of three men still wanted over Tuesday's attack were released by the force.
Bottles and other objects were thrown at the coach as it got stuck in traffic en route to the stadium.
The disorder left four policemen injured and West Ham said it would ban for life any fan found responsible.
Two men, aged 18 and 47, who were arrested for pitch incursion have been bailed to return on a date in late May.
A 20-year-old man who was arrested for throwing bottles at police officers has been bailed to return on a date in August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic backs West Ham winger Michail Antonio for England
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 14/05/16 9:58am
SSN
West Ham winger Michail Antonio should be considered for an England call-up, according to Slaven Bilic.
Antonio, who joined the Hammers from Nottingham Forest last September, has enjoyed a superb debut season in the Premier League and managed to score his seventh goal for the club in their thrilling 3-2 win over Manchester United on Tuesday.
In recent months, the 26-year-old has been filling in at right-back, but has continued his strong form and helped take West Ham to the verge of qualification for next season's Europa League.
Roy Hodgson will announce his provisional squad for the European Championship on Monday and Bilic feels the England manager should contemplate selecting Antonio.
"He's quality, the way he is playing, the big impact that he's had on our game and also on the Premier League," the West Ham manager said.
"I'm saying as his club manager he's scored some goals, he's made some assists, he's defending really well.
"Of course Roy Hodgson has got a good team, he's not struggling for names. England qualified with 10 out of 10 wins so it's very hard for some players to break in - somebody has got to get injured or somebody has to lose a place in his club long term.
"But if you ask me, does he have enough to offer? Yeah, definitely. He's a player who when he's one against one, he's got pace, he's got strength, he's got the quality of going up and down, he's dangerous on goal. He's a great player for us."So does he have potential? Definitely."
A victory over Stoke at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday - live on Sky Sports 3 HD - will guarantee Europa League football for West Ham.
West Ham were knocked out of the Europa League in the third qualifying round last August, with Bilic using a mixture of fringe players and youngsters.
But Bilic has insisted that the Hammers intend to have a real crack at the competition next season, if they do indeed qualify.
"When it's there, you want to do it," Bilic added. "In England, in the media it's always 'is it good to qualify because you have a dip because you're not used to playing three games a week', and that's a minus.
"But it doesn't matter, we really want to qualify and so we're going to do everything we can.
"Last summer was too early, me and my staff were new and we didn't have enough players. "We didn't want to go out, we wanted to qualify, but without damaging or harming the Premier League. If we qualify (this year) it's totally different to last year. "You don't have to start too early but what is more important is we're going to have a thicker squad, or a squad that is ready."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimitri Payet: Slaven Bilic a big part of my West Ham success
By James Walker-Roberts
Last Updated: 14/05/16 12:24pm
SSN
Dimitri Payet says he owes plenty to manager Slaven Bilic after his impressive first season with West Ham.
After signing from Marseille last summer, Payet has been one of the standout players in the Premier League and has scored 12 goals in all competitions.
He scooped five prizes at the club's Player of the Season awards and, speaking to Soccer AM, said he was delighted with his debut season.
"It's been a great season for me. I try to make a difference in every game, although it isn't always possible," he said.
"I have a good relationship with the coach. I owe so much to him. The fact I am playing at this level is down to him signing me and providing the best possible conditions. He's had faith in me since day one, which has allowed me to fulfil my potential.
"It was easy for me to settle at this club. Everyone is down to earth and has the same aim which is to win, while always giving our best."
Payet has particularly impressed with the number of free-kicks he has scored this season.
The French midfielder has netted five times direct from free-kicks since January and said: "I worked hard on them at Marseille last season, but I didn't score any.
"I did lots of free-kick practice earlier in the season, until scoring my first one against Bournemouth. As I'd found my technique, I stopped practising. But I have been practising more recently as they haven't been going in!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
OS Chelsea ground-share update
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 14, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Karren Brady's admission that Chelsea have inquired about ground sharing the Olympic Stadium "in 2018″ will not be kicked into touch without a second thought from West Ham.
The vice chairman revealed in her Sun column today (Sat) hat she had shown Chelsea officials around the OS adding: "I have very good relations with Chelsea and, yes, they have enquired about a ground share in 2018.
Any final decision on letting the Blues move in will be ours and not the London Legacy Development Corporation's, or indeed Chelsea's."
We spoke to a top insider at the club this morning and it was made crystal clear the fans' position would be the first consideration in any decision.
He said: "We have good relationships with Chelsea. There was never any question of us sharing with Tottenham Hotspur but you would look at Chelsea in a different light. However, any arrangement could only be for a temporary one year and we would wait on the fan reaction."
Were such an arrangement to go ahead it would give the Hammers a financial windfall in the shape of halved rent for the season.
Our source said: " West Ham is entitled to a 50% discount on their £2.5m annual rent if we share but I don't know how appealing the prospect would be to Chelsea or any other club because the stadium is so very West Ham. The stadium now looks and feels like our home.
"We have the shop and the only offices so I'm really not sure it works for anybody else. We have to agree fixtures with Premier League so that's possibly a stumbling block."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho: Will he stay or will he go?
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 14, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Diafra Sakho's future has never been far off the fans' radar over recent months with the more pessimistic among them claiming he won't be around next season.
This is based on him apparently having a bit of ruck on the training ground – not entirely abnormal – that he doesn't have too many pals, and badly misses his daughter.
This has had people putting two and two together and claiming he wants a return to France where he and his little girl can be reunited.
All very soft lights, sweet music and romantic but somewhat removed from the financial and footballing facts of life which show that no club in Ligue 1 could afford his wages or a transfer fee currently estimate at between £15 – £20 million
There is only one person who will decide Sak's future – the manager Slaven Bilic – and although it's pretty much an open secret that all was not well between them ahead of the Arsenal game, since then the striker has appeared in games against Watford, West Ham, Swansea and Manchester United in which he of course scored a crucial goal. The body language between them has also looked good.
Sak compares his estrangement with his his daughter to that of his own father as a boy when the head of the family did exactly the same thing – went off to earn money for the family.
Sakho said: "My Dad was away from home all the time. He was a bus driver between Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. I effectively grew up without my father. "That was the path that he showed us. He helped us a huge amount and we were always grateful for that."
And he added: ""I have two brothers and a sister, my mother and my daughter to support. Obviously the choice to come to West Ham was both sporting and financial and I am just happy I am able to support the family by doing this."
So unless the boss decides he no longer wants him around, Sak will stay with a contract which ties him to West Ham until June 2018
Were Slaven want to get rid, now would be the time to do it with two years left on the player's deal with a better price available than in a year's time.
But given our striker problems it's hugely unlikely and the player has little incentive to return to Ligue 1 to cure any home sickness for his child given that he will be earning a lot less than what he's getting now.
Our verdict – Sak STAYS!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
The background
West Ham United face their final Barclays Premier League game of the season on Sunday when they head to Stoke City.
After Tuesday's dramatic Farewell Boleyn victory over Manchester United kept European qualification in their hands, the Britannia Stadium clash is sure to have and edge to it as Slaven Bilic's men look to secure UEFA Europa League football.
Victory would mean the Hammers would finish no lower than sixth – and could come fifth should Manchester United fail to beat AFC Bournemouth, but defeat could see Southampton and Liverpool leapfrog them.
So there is plenty riding on the 3pm kick-off as West Ham look to finish off a memorable season in style.
Stoke will finish ninth, tenth or eleventh in the table, so will want victory themselves to ensure a top half spot.
However, they have been in poor form of late, losing four of their last six games and winning none of them.
The history
West Ham and Stoke have met on 89 previous occasions, with the Hammers winning 34 and Stoke 32.
The first Football League meeting was in the Hammers' first season in the competition – 1919/20, with Stoke emerging 2-1 victors on that day.
In more recent times draws have been the order of the day, with the last three games ending all-square.
Earlier this season the Potters visited the Boleyn Ground in the middle of West Ham's attacking injury crisis and went back to the Midlands with a 0-0 draw.
The match
Team news
West Ham United
The Hammers only have one absentee in the shape of goalkeeper Adrian, who is sidelined with a minor calf problem.
Diafra Sakho is likely to retain his place in the team after scoring on his return to the starting XI against Manchester United.
Stoke City
The Potters are without midfielder Stephen Ireland, who suffered a broken leg in training this week.
Goalkeepers Jack Butland and Shay Given remain sidelined, as do Ibrahim Afellay, Glen Johnson and Marc Wilson.
Match info
Sunday's match referee is Mike Jones. He will be assisted by Marc Perry and Mark Scholes. The fourth official is Geoff Eltringham.
Stoke are winless in six league matches (D2, L4).
They have gone four home games without a victory (D2, L2). Failure to beat West Ham will seem them equal their longest-ever winless home Premier League run.
The Potters have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine league games.
West Ham have only lost one of their last 12 league games (W6, D5).
They have scored in each of those games, their longest-ever scoring run in the competition.
The Hammers are unbeaten in five away league games (W2, D3), scoring at least two goals in each of those matches.
Ticketing, travel, coverage and other info
Tickets for West Ham United supporters for this game have SOLD OUT.
Click here for the latest travel news on the trains and here for the roads.
A mixture of sun and cloud is expected in Stoke on Sunday. Temperatures will peak at 15C (59F).
If you can't make it to the game our digital channels are the place to follow all the action. The whufc.com Match Centre will have live audio commentary and social media updates, along with in-running stats, photos and more. Meanwhile, use the hashtag #STKWHU to get involved in the conversation on social.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Delighted Diangana turns professional
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that explosive winger Grady Diangana has signed professional terms with the club.
Following impressive displays for the U18s and Development Squad this season, the 18-year-old south Londoner has put pen to paper on a two-year contract.
Speaking pitchside at the Boleyn Ground after committing his future to the Hammers, Diangana beamed: "I'm very, very happy to have signed my professional deal. I've been working towards this moment for a long, long time now. I'm really raring to go now.
"I just had a huge grin on my way, I was very, very happy. I was told after a training session which was a surprise but it made it even better.
"It's very proud moment for my family; it's a very special moment."
This term, Diangana netted 7 goals in 14 league games for Steve Potts' U18s before moving up to the Development Squad where he scored against Swansea City.
Looking back at a highly prosperous season, Diangana continued: "It's great to see the staff show faith in me and my ability. They trust the ability I have and I am very grateful for that.
"I am very pleased with my season. I've done well with my age group the U18s, then stepped up to the U21s, did well but could do better. Overall I should have got more goals.
"It's also great training with the first team. I'm not used to that speed so it is a good learning curve. It's a massive step up so I realised how big a step it is into the first team. But it's a step I am confident I can one day make."
Having reached his boyhood dream of turning professional, the youngster is already looking forward to next season.
He stated his goals as: "My targets for next season are to train more regularly with the first team, be around them, get used to it and the pace of the game. Then see what happens from there really.
"I haven't seen the stadium myself but what I've seen from pictures and the boys that have been, it looks amazing. I'm sure it'll feel amazing playing in that stadium, I can't wait!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manchester United bus attack: Suspect arrested
BBC.co.uk
Police released images of three men they still wish to speak to after Tuesday's attack
A man has been arrested in connection with an attack on Manchester United's team bus outside West Ham's Boleyn Ground.
The suspect, 28, handed himself in at an east London Police station on Friday, the Met said.
He arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and was bailed until mid-August.
Images of three men still wanted over Tuesday's attack were released by the force.
Bottles and other objects were thrown at the coach as it got stuck in traffic en route to the stadium.
The disorder left four policemen injured and West Ham said it would ban for life any fan found responsible.
Two men, aged 18 and 47, who were arrested for pitch incursion have been bailed to return on a date in late May.
A 20-year-old man who was arrested for throwing bottles at police officers has been bailed to return on a date in August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic backs West Ham winger Michail Antonio for England
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 14/05/16 9:58am
SSN
West Ham winger Michail Antonio should be considered for an England call-up, according to Slaven Bilic.
Antonio, who joined the Hammers from Nottingham Forest last September, has enjoyed a superb debut season in the Premier League and managed to score his seventh goal for the club in their thrilling 3-2 win over Manchester United on Tuesday.
In recent months, the 26-year-old has been filling in at right-back, but has continued his strong form and helped take West Ham to the verge of qualification for next season's Europa League.
Roy Hodgson will announce his provisional squad for the European Championship on Monday and Bilic feels the England manager should contemplate selecting Antonio.
"He's quality, the way he is playing, the big impact that he's had on our game and also on the Premier League," the West Ham manager said.
"I'm saying as his club manager he's scored some goals, he's made some assists, he's defending really well.
"Of course Roy Hodgson has got a good team, he's not struggling for names. England qualified with 10 out of 10 wins so it's very hard for some players to break in - somebody has got to get injured or somebody has to lose a place in his club long term.
"But if you ask me, does he have enough to offer? Yeah, definitely. He's a player who when he's one against one, he's got pace, he's got strength, he's got the quality of going up and down, he's dangerous on goal. He's a great player for us."So does he have potential? Definitely."
A victory over Stoke at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday - live on Sky Sports 3 HD - will guarantee Europa League football for West Ham.
West Ham were knocked out of the Europa League in the third qualifying round last August, with Bilic using a mixture of fringe players and youngsters.
But Bilic has insisted that the Hammers intend to have a real crack at the competition next season, if they do indeed qualify.
"When it's there, you want to do it," Bilic added. "In England, in the media it's always 'is it good to qualify because you have a dip because you're not used to playing three games a week', and that's a minus.
"But it doesn't matter, we really want to qualify and so we're going to do everything we can.
"Last summer was too early, me and my staff were new and we didn't have enough players. "We didn't want to go out, we wanted to qualify, but without damaging or harming the Premier League. If we qualify (this year) it's totally different to last year. "You don't have to start too early but what is more important is we're going to have a thicker squad, or a squad that is ready."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dimitri Payet: Slaven Bilic a big part of my West Ham success
By James Walker-Roberts
Last Updated: 14/05/16 12:24pm
SSN
Dimitri Payet says he owes plenty to manager Slaven Bilic after his impressive first season with West Ham.
After signing from Marseille last summer, Payet has been one of the standout players in the Premier League and has scored 12 goals in all competitions.
He scooped five prizes at the club's Player of the Season awards and, speaking to Soccer AM, said he was delighted with his debut season.
"It's been a great season for me. I try to make a difference in every game, although it isn't always possible," he said.
"I have a good relationship with the coach. I owe so much to him. The fact I am playing at this level is down to him signing me and providing the best possible conditions. He's had faith in me since day one, which has allowed me to fulfil my potential.
"It was easy for me to settle at this club. Everyone is down to earth and has the same aim which is to win, while always giving our best."
Payet has particularly impressed with the number of free-kicks he has scored this season.
The French midfielder has netted five times direct from free-kicks since January and said: "I worked hard on them at Marseille last season, but I didn't score any.
"I did lots of free-kick practice earlier in the season, until scoring my first one against Bournemouth. As I'd found my technique, I stopped practising. But I have been practising more recently as they haven't been going in!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
OS Chelsea ground-share update
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 14, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Karren Brady's admission that Chelsea have inquired about ground sharing the Olympic Stadium "in 2018″ will not be kicked into touch without a second thought from West Ham.
The vice chairman revealed in her Sun column today (Sat) hat she had shown Chelsea officials around the OS adding: "I have very good relations with Chelsea and, yes, they have enquired about a ground share in 2018.
Any final decision on letting the Blues move in will be ours and not the London Legacy Development Corporation's, or indeed Chelsea's."
We spoke to a top insider at the club this morning and it was made crystal clear the fans' position would be the first consideration in any decision.
He said: "We have good relationships with Chelsea. There was never any question of us sharing with Tottenham Hotspur but you would look at Chelsea in a different light. However, any arrangement could only be for a temporary one year and we would wait on the fan reaction."
Were such an arrangement to go ahead it would give the Hammers a financial windfall in the shape of halved rent for the season.
Our source said: " West Ham is entitled to a 50% discount on their £2.5m annual rent if we share but I don't know how appealing the prospect would be to Chelsea or any other club because the stadium is so very West Ham. The stadium now looks and feels like our home.
"We have the shop and the only offices so I'm really not sure it works for anybody else. We have to agree fixtures with Premier League so that's possibly a stumbling block."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho: Will he stay or will he go?
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 14, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Diafra Sakho's future has never been far off the fans' radar over recent months with the more pessimistic among them claiming he won't be around next season.
This is based on him apparently having a bit of ruck on the training ground – not entirely abnormal – that he doesn't have too many pals, and badly misses his daughter.
This has had people putting two and two together and claiming he wants a return to France where he and his little girl can be reunited.
All very soft lights, sweet music and romantic but somewhat removed from the financial and footballing facts of life which show that no club in Ligue 1 could afford his wages or a transfer fee currently estimate at between £15 – £20 million
There is only one person who will decide Sak's future – the manager Slaven Bilic – and although it's pretty much an open secret that all was not well between them ahead of the Arsenal game, since then the striker has appeared in games against Watford, West Ham, Swansea and Manchester United in which he of course scored a crucial goal. The body language between them has also looked good.
Sak compares his estrangement with his his daughter to that of his own father as a boy when the head of the family did exactly the same thing – went off to earn money for the family.
Sakho said: "My Dad was away from home all the time. He was a bus driver between Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. I effectively grew up without my father. "That was the path that he showed us. He helped us a huge amount and we were always grateful for that."
And he added: ""I have two brothers and a sister, my mother and my daughter to support. Obviously the choice to come to West Ham was both sporting and financial and I am just happy I am able to support the family by doing this."
So unless the boss decides he no longer wants him around, Sak will stay with a contract which ties him to West Ham until June 2018
Were Slaven want to get rid, now would be the time to do it with two years left on the player's deal with a better price available than in a year's time.
But given our striker problems it's hugely unlikely and the player has little incentive to return to Ligue 1 to cure any home sickness for his child given that he will be earning a lot less than what he's getting now.
Our verdict – Sak STAYS!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 14
Daily WHUFC News - 14th May 2016
Slaven Speaks - Stoke City
WHUFC.com
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic held his final pre-match press conference of the season on Friday.
The boss looked ahead to the meeting with Stoke City, spoke of his hopes for European football and more…
Is fifth place realistic?
SB: "Fifth is difficult, It's the last game of the season and the situation is the same for a few clubs in a few countries. Real Madrid are hoping that Barcelona don't win their last game – it's unlikely but when it comes to the last game it's always possible with the pressure and everything.
"But we shouldn't be concentrating on that, not even with one ear. We have to do the job, we have a very difficult game because Stoke want to finish on a high and if they win they are breaking their record of points. They have a good team and all we have to do is try to replicate that performance from Tuesday night and win the game.
"If we win the game we will be happy, definitely, because we will be sixth minimum, fifth possibly if Manchester United slip, or fourth if Manchester City lose 25-0!"
What are your reflections of the season as a whole? What moments stand out?
SB: "Now is not the time to talk about that. We have a massive game in front of us, so I'm not ready to analyse the whole season apart to say in once sentence it has been a brilliant season for West Ham United."
Stoke have been on a bad run recently, so how do you rate your chances of winning on Sunday?
SB: "We have a chance because we are a good team. They've been on a bad run but I've watched their games and it's been more like they've been playing teams who have been on fire.
"They've conceded three or four goals in a couple of games, but on their day they are capable. Against Spurs, in the first half Stoke were quite unlucky, and ok they lost to Palace and drew with Sunderland, but I didn't see a dip in their energy.
"They are a good team, who have a few individuals who can harm you – Arnautovic, Bojan, Shaqiri, Diouf, Walters, Crouch. They have good players, and unfortunately we are expecting a difficult game and we will have to be on top of our game to do the job."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph relishing Stoke showdown
WHUFC.com
Randolph is aiming for Europe!
Hello everybody,
I want to start by thanking everyone for the happy birthday wishes for yesterday, I had a great day, made extra special by all your messages.
All in all it's been a rather special week, hasn't it? Tuesday night was one of the best atmosphere's I've played in, probably the best alongside the Ireland games with Germany and Bosnia.
As a goalkeeper, I was obviously closest to the fans, and the noise was just incredible. We knew it would be loud given the last game, but it topped anything we expected by a long way!
It was a very special night for everyone and a proud moment, one that I can look back on and say that I played a part in.
Now we look ahead to Stoke and hopefully we can add the cherry on top of this season's extra special cake by qualifying for Europe.
They will be a very difficult team to play, they always are, especially at their place. We won't underestimate them, final game of the season or not. We know what's at stake so we want to go there and get a win.
We've spoken a little bit about Europe, of course we have, but we're not getting carried away.
Whatever happens on Sunday, we've had a great season. We've had some amazing games, both home and away, a good cup run and the send-off to the Boleyn Ground, so it's been a huge season for us and one where everyone has contributed.
This season has made me realise how much I took the Premier League for granted first time round when I was at Charlton. I was 16, 17 and I thought I'd be in the Premier League for ever.
Obviously it didn't quite work out like that, but I'm delighted to be here and play a part. I love coming into training and being around my teammates.
Roll on Sunday!
Darren
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Academy stars seek Dutch success
WHUFc.com
Following there U21 Premier League Cup success, a youthful West Ham United squad including the likes of Martin Samuelsen and Lewis Page have travelled to Uitgeest, northern Holland to compete in the annual ICTG youth tournament this weekend.
The Hammers are in Pool A, and will face Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro and Dutch giants AZ Alkmaar after getting the illustrious tournament underway in shortened games against hosts FC Uitgeest at 11am on Saturday 14 May.
Later that day, they play AZ Alkmaar at 1.20pm before playing there third and final group game with Cruzeiro at 3.40pm.
At the same time, teams in Pool B - Vitesse Arnhem, Panathinaikos, Fortuna Dusseldorf and Atletico Paranaense, will also be competing in the competition.
After all group fixtures have been completed, the tournament divides into a series of play off games which will be played throughout Monday 16th May.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SUN, 15 MAY 2016
PREMIER LEAGUE
15:00
Venue: Britannia Stadium
BBC.co.uk
Stoke City v West Ham United
TEAM NEWS
Stoke will be without Stephen Ireland after the midfielder suffered a broken leg in training this week.
Jack Butland, Shay Given and Ibrahim Afellay remain sidelined, while Glen Johnson and Marc Wilson are nursing knee injuries and aren't expected to feature on Sunday.
Darren Randolph will again deputise in the West Ham goal for Adrian, who has a calf injury.
The Hammers otherwise have no injury concerns.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTESMartin Fisher: "Tuesday's victory over Manchester United <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36189168> on such an emotional night kept West Ham firmly on course to kick off life at the Olympic Stadium with European football.
"A win at Stoke will secure a top-six finish and with it a place in next season's Europa League.
"Slaven Bilic will be determined to have some tangible reward from such a memorable season.
"Mark Hughes will be frustrated by his side's decline over the last couple of months which killed off their own European challenge, but three points from this one could see Stoke finish in ninth for the third successive season."
Twitter:@martfisher1 <https://twitter.com/martfisher1>
LAWRO'S PREDICTIONI do not see the Potters losing at home again, especially because they did not play in midweek while West Ham had that emotionally draining final game at Upton Park.
Prediction: 1-1
Lawro's full predictions v X-Men star Ben Hardy <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36243983>
* Think you can do better than Lawro? Predict the score for this match and the rest of this round's Premier League fixtures in our Predictor game. <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/predictor>
MATCH FACTSHead-to-head
* Stoke are unbeaten in five league meetings, although the last three have been draws.
Stoke
* Stoke are winless in six league matches (D2, L4).
* They have gone four home games without a victory (D2, L2). Failure to beat West Ham will seem them equal their longest-ever winless home Premier League run.
* The Potters have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine league games.
* Marko Arnautovic needs one goal to become Stoke's outright top-scorer in a Premier League campaign.
West Ham
* West Ham have only lost one of their last 12 league games (W6, D5).
* They have scored in each of those games, their longest-ever scoring run in the competition.
* The Hammers are unbeaten in five away league games (W2, D3), scoring at least two goals in each of those matches.
* Dimitri Payet has been involved in 11 goals in his last 12 Premier League appearances (three goals, eight assists).
SAM's verdictMost probable score: 1-1Probability of draw: 27%Probability of home win: 30%Probability of away win: 42%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by Professor Ian McHale at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football matches.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool & West Ham could face Europa League play-offBy Frank Keogh & Mark Mitchener
BBC Sport
Liverpool and West Ham have already met four times this season, with West Ham winning on three occasionsWest Ham and Liverpool could face a play-off to determine who qualifies for the Europa League.
The Hammers lie sixth in the Premier League before the final round of matches, while Liverpool are eighth.
The Reds also play Sevilla in the Europa League final <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36279287> knowing that a win would secure a Champions League place.
If they have to qualify for Europe through the league, there is a scenario that has both clubs level on points, goal difference and goals scored.
How it could happenWest Ham would have to lose 1-0 at Stoke City AND Liverpool beat West Brom 2-1; or the Hammers lose 2-1 while it finished 3-2 to the away side at The Hawthorns, or so on. In addition, seventh-placed Southampton would have to be denied a win against visitors Crystal Palace.
Those scorelines would leave the London and Merseyside clubs level after 38 matches of a season lasting nine months.
Final is outstanding opportunity - KloppIf they were tied, the play-off would only be needed if their finishing spot is in a Europa League position, and Sevilla were to win next week's final in Basel.
A Premier League spokesperson confirmed an extra game could take place, although the likelihood is small.
League rules state: "If at the end of the season either the league champions or the clubs to be relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions cannot be determined because two or more clubs are equal on points, goal difference and goals scored, the clubs concerned shall play off one or more deciding league matches on neutral grounds, the format, venue and timing of which shall be determined by the board."
Any date or ground has not been decided upon.
Europa League qualificationManchester City are already assured of at least a Europa League place after winning the Capital One Cup.
If they finish in the top four, that place in the Europa League third qualifying round will pass to the sixth-placed team.
The same will happen if they secure a place in the Europa League group stage by finishing fifth - and realistically, goal difference means City are unlikely to finish lower than fifth.
If Liverpool win the Europa League, they will qualify for the Champions League group stage. If Crystal Palace win the FA Cup, they will enter the Europa League at the group stage. If Manchester United win, that place will be given to the seventh-placed team.
There are no longer any Fair Play places allocated to the Europa League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stoke v West Ham preview: Slaven Bilic's side look to leapfrog Man Utd
By James Walker-Roberts
Last Updated: 13/05/16 6:51pm
SSN
Watch Stoke v West Ham on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports 3 HD from 2.55pm
West Ham will cap off an impressive season with a top-six finish if they beat Stoke at the Britannia on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.
After coming from behind to win against Manchester United in midweek, the Hammers could pip United to fifth if they get a favour from Bournemouth on the final day.
Manager Slaven Bilic hopes they can replicate the performance that saw them beat United 3-2 in their final game at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday.
"Stoke will want to finish on a high, but all we have to do is try to replicate the performance from Tuesday night and win the game," he said. "That will give us minimum sixth and if Manchester United slip up, we can move to fifth."
While the Hammers are looking up the table, Stoke are in danger of finishing in the bottom half after a poor run of form over the last two months.
Stoke have won just one of their last nine games and slip down to 11th if they lose to the Hammers and Swansea beat Manchester City.
Team news
Stoke midfielder Stephen Ireland is expected to be sidelined for eight or nine months after suffering a double leg fracture in training during the week.
The Potters also have Ibrahim Afellay, Marc Wilson (both knee) and Jack Butland (ankle) unavailable.
Sunday's game could see Glen Johnson and Shay Given back involved after spells out with knee and groin problems respectively.
Goalkeeper Adrian remains West Ham's only absentee as he is still recovering from a calf problem, so Darren Randolph will continue to deputise.
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic apologised after some fans threw bottles and other objects at Manchester United's team bus on Monday
Boss Slaven Bilic has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from.
Opta stats
Stoke are unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches against West Ham (W2 D3).
The Hammers have won just one of their six final day Premier League matches away from home (W1 D1 L4).
Stoke have won none of their last four Premier League matches at the Britannia Stadium (D2 L2). Not beating West Ham would see them equal their longest run without a home win in the Premier League (five games September 2012).
Stoke have slipped down the table after a poor run of form
West Ham are unbeaten in their last five Premier League away games (W2 D3), scoring at least two goals in each of those matches.
West Ham will finish the season with a positive goal difference (currently +15) for the first time in a top-flight campaign since 1985/86.
Paul Merson's predictionsSee who the Magic Man is tipping to win on the final weekend <http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15205/10279216/mersons-predictions>
The Hammers have already registered their best-ever points haul in a Premier League campaign (62, five more than their next best return of 57 in 1998/99).
Austrian attacker Marko Arnautovic needs one goal to become Stoke's outright top-scorer in a single Premier League campaign (currently level on 11 with Ricardo Fuller 08/09 and Mame Biram Diouf 14/15).
Merson's prediction
I'm doing this game for Soccer Special and I think the Hammers will win. If they do they have a chance of finishing fifth and after all their hard work the other day, they will be keen to get another good result. Stoke have played some good football through the season but sometimes they are not as hard to beat as they used to be.
They are good footballers and you are always going to get hot and cold when you get those kind of players. Some of them are luxury players and when they are hot they are hot and when they are cold they are cold.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2 (15/2 with Sky Bet
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic urges West Ham to finish strong against Stoke to secure Europa League football
By Michael Kelleher & Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 13/05/16 12:02pm
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic wants to cap an impressive season with European qualifcation
Slaven Bilic has urged West Ham to replicate their performance against Manchester United when they face Stoke, live on Sky Sports 3, as they attempt to nail down a place in the Europa League.
The Hammers, who defeated United 3-2 in their final match at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday , will secure a place in next season's Europa League if they win at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday, live on Sky Sports 3.
"Stoke will want to finish on a high, but all we have to do is try to replicate the performance from Tuesday night and win the game. That will give us minimum sixth and if Manchester United slip up, we can move to fifth.
"Stoke have been on a bad run, but I've watched their games and it's like they've played teams that have been on fire. We are expecting a difficult game and we will have to be on top of our game to do the job.
"It would be nice to have Europa League football because we have had a good season and it would be good to get something out of it."
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic apologises after some fans threw bottles and other objects at Manchester United's team bus on Tuesday
With Manchester City certain to finish no lower than fifth due to their goal difference, the Europa League berth they earned by winning the Capital One Cup will go to the sixth-placed team.
If Crystal Palace win the FA Cup, they will enter the Europa League at the group stage. However, if Manchester United win, that place will be given to the seventh-placed team.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic held his final pre-match press conference of the season on Friday.
The boss looked ahead to the meeting with Stoke City, spoke of his hopes for European football and more…
Is fifth place realistic?
SB: "Fifth is difficult, It's the last game of the season and the situation is the same for a few clubs in a few countries. Real Madrid are hoping that Barcelona don't win their last game – it's unlikely but when it comes to the last game it's always possible with the pressure and everything.
"But we shouldn't be concentrating on that, not even with one ear. We have to do the job, we have a very difficult game because Stoke want to finish on a high and if they win they are breaking their record of points. They have a good team and all we have to do is try to replicate that performance from Tuesday night and win the game.
"If we win the game we will be happy, definitely, because we will be sixth minimum, fifth possibly if Manchester United slip, or fourth if Manchester City lose 25-0!"
What are your reflections of the season as a whole? What moments stand out?
SB: "Now is not the time to talk about that. We have a massive game in front of us, so I'm not ready to analyse the whole season apart to say in once sentence it has been a brilliant season for West Ham United."
Stoke have been on a bad run recently, so how do you rate your chances of winning on Sunday?
SB: "We have a chance because we are a good team. They've been on a bad run but I've watched their games and it's been more like they've been playing teams who have been on fire.
"They've conceded three or four goals in a couple of games, but on their day they are capable. Against Spurs, in the first half Stoke were quite unlucky, and ok they lost to Palace and drew with Sunderland, but I didn't see a dip in their energy.
"They are a good team, who have a few individuals who can harm you – Arnautovic, Bojan, Shaqiri, Diouf, Walters, Crouch. They have good players, and unfortunately we are expecting a difficult game and we will have to be on top of our game to do the job."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Randolph relishing Stoke showdown
WHUFC.com
Randolph is aiming for Europe!
Hello everybody,
I want to start by thanking everyone for the happy birthday wishes for yesterday, I had a great day, made extra special by all your messages.
All in all it's been a rather special week, hasn't it? Tuesday night was one of the best atmosphere's I've played in, probably the best alongside the Ireland games with Germany and Bosnia.
As a goalkeeper, I was obviously closest to the fans, and the noise was just incredible. We knew it would be loud given the last game, but it topped anything we expected by a long way!
It was a very special night for everyone and a proud moment, one that I can look back on and say that I played a part in.
Now we look ahead to Stoke and hopefully we can add the cherry on top of this season's extra special cake by qualifying for Europe.
They will be a very difficult team to play, they always are, especially at their place. We won't underestimate them, final game of the season or not. We know what's at stake so we want to go there and get a win.
We've spoken a little bit about Europe, of course we have, but we're not getting carried away.
Whatever happens on Sunday, we've had a great season. We've had some amazing games, both home and away, a good cup run and the send-off to the Boleyn Ground, so it's been a huge season for us and one where everyone has contributed.
This season has made me realise how much I took the Premier League for granted first time round when I was at Charlton. I was 16, 17 and I thought I'd be in the Premier League for ever.
Obviously it didn't quite work out like that, but I'm delighted to be here and play a part. I love coming into training and being around my teammates.
Roll on Sunday!
Darren
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Academy stars seek Dutch success
WHUFc.com
Following there U21 Premier League Cup success, a youthful West Ham United squad including the likes of Martin Samuelsen and Lewis Page have travelled to Uitgeest, northern Holland to compete in the annual ICTG youth tournament this weekend.
The Hammers are in Pool A, and will face Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro and Dutch giants AZ Alkmaar after getting the illustrious tournament underway in shortened games against hosts FC Uitgeest at 11am on Saturday 14 May.
Later that day, they play AZ Alkmaar at 1.20pm before playing there third and final group game with Cruzeiro at 3.40pm.
At the same time, teams in Pool B - Vitesse Arnhem, Panathinaikos, Fortuna Dusseldorf and Atletico Paranaense, will also be competing in the competition.
After all group fixtures have been completed, the tournament divides into a series of play off games which will be played throughout Monday 16th May.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SUN, 15 MAY 2016
PREMIER LEAGUE
15:00
Venue: Britannia Stadium
BBC.co.uk
Stoke City v West Ham United
TEAM NEWS
Stoke will be without Stephen Ireland after the midfielder suffered a broken leg in training this week.
Jack Butland, Shay Given and Ibrahim Afellay remain sidelined, while Glen Johnson and Marc Wilson are nursing knee injuries and aren't expected to feature on Sunday.
Darren Randolph will again deputise in the West Ham goal for Adrian, who has a calf injury.
The Hammers otherwise have no injury concerns.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTESMartin Fisher: "Tuesday's victory over Manchester United <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36189168> on such an emotional night kept West Ham firmly on course to kick off life at the Olympic Stadium with European football.
"A win at Stoke will secure a top-six finish and with it a place in next season's Europa League.
"Slaven Bilic will be determined to have some tangible reward from such a memorable season.
"Mark Hughes will be frustrated by his side's decline over the last couple of months which killed off their own European challenge, but three points from this one could see Stoke finish in ninth for the third successive season."
Twitter:@martfisher1 <https://twitter.com/martfisher1>
LAWRO'S PREDICTIONI do not see the Potters losing at home again, especially because they did not play in midweek while West Ham had that emotionally draining final game at Upton Park.
Prediction: 1-1
Lawro's full predictions v X-Men star Ben Hardy <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36243983>
* Think you can do better than Lawro? Predict the score for this match and the rest of this round's Premier League fixtures in our Predictor game. <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/predictor>
MATCH FACTSHead-to-head
* Stoke are unbeaten in five league meetings, although the last three have been draws.
Stoke
* Stoke are winless in six league matches (D2, L4).
* They have gone four home games without a victory (D2, L2). Failure to beat West Ham will seem them equal their longest-ever winless home Premier League run.
* The Potters have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine league games.
* Marko Arnautovic needs one goal to become Stoke's outright top-scorer in a Premier League campaign.
West Ham
* West Ham have only lost one of their last 12 league games (W6, D5).
* They have scored in each of those games, their longest-ever scoring run in the competition.
* The Hammers are unbeaten in five away league games (W2, D3), scoring at least two goals in each of those matches.
* Dimitri Payet has been involved in 11 goals in his last 12 Premier League appearances (three goals, eight assists).
SAM's verdictMost probable score: 1-1Probability of draw: 27%Probability of home win: 30%Probability of away win: 42%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by Professor Ian McHale at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football matches.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool & West Ham could face Europa League play-offBy Frank Keogh & Mark Mitchener
BBC Sport
Liverpool and West Ham have already met four times this season, with West Ham winning on three occasionsWest Ham and Liverpool could face a play-off to determine who qualifies for the Europa League.
The Hammers lie sixth in the Premier League before the final round of matches, while Liverpool are eighth.
The Reds also play Sevilla in the Europa League final <http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36279287> knowing that a win would secure a Champions League place.
If they have to qualify for Europe through the league, there is a scenario that has both clubs level on points, goal difference and goals scored.
How it could happenWest Ham would have to lose 1-0 at Stoke City AND Liverpool beat West Brom 2-1; or the Hammers lose 2-1 while it finished 3-2 to the away side at The Hawthorns, or so on. In addition, seventh-placed Southampton would have to be denied a win against visitors Crystal Palace.
Those scorelines would leave the London and Merseyside clubs level after 38 matches of a season lasting nine months.
Final is outstanding opportunity - KloppIf they were tied, the play-off would only be needed if their finishing spot is in a Europa League position, and Sevilla were to win next week's final in Basel.
A Premier League spokesperson confirmed an extra game could take place, although the likelihood is small.
League rules state: "If at the end of the season either the league champions or the clubs to be relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions cannot be determined because two or more clubs are equal on points, goal difference and goals scored, the clubs concerned shall play off one or more deciding league matches on neutral grounds, the format, venue and timing of which shall be determined by the board."
Any date or ground has not been decided upon.
Europa League qualificationManchester City are already assured of at least a Europa League place after winning the Capital One Cup.
If they finish in the top four, that place in the Europa League third qualifying round will pass to the sixth-placed team.
The same will happen if they secure a place in the Europa League group stage by finishing fifth - and realistically, goal difference means City are unlikely to finish lower than fifth.
If Liverpool win the Europa League, they will qualify for the Champions League group stage. If Crystal Palace win the FA Cup, they will enter the Europa League at the group stage. If Manchester United win, that place will be given to the seventh-placed team.
There are no longer any Fair Play places allocated to the Europa League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stoke v West Ham preview: Slaven Bilic's side look to leapfrog Man Utd
By James Walker-Roberts
Last Updated: 13/05/16 6:51pm
SSN
Watch Stoke v West Ham on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports 3 HD from 2.55pm
West Ham will cap off an impressive season with a top-six finish if they beat Stoke at the Britannia on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.
After coming from behind to win against Manchester United in midweek, the Hammers could pip United to fifth if they get a favour from Bournemouth on the final day.
Manager Slaven Bilic hopes they can replicate the performance that saw them beat United 3-2 in their final game at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday.
"Stoke will want to finish on a high, but all we have to do is try to replicate the performance from Tuesday night and win the game," he said. "That will give us minimum sixth and if Manchester United slip up, we can move to fifth."
While the Hammers are looking up the table, Stoke are in danger of finishing in the bottom half after a poor run of form over the last two months.
Stoke have won just one of their last nine games and slip down to 11th if they lose to the Hammers and Swansea beat Manchester City.
Team news
Stoke midfielder Stephen Ireland is expected to be sidelined for eight or nine months after suffering a double leg fracture in training during the week.
The Potters also have Ibrahim Afellay, Marc Wilson (both knee) and Jack Butland (ankle) unavailable.
Sunday's game could see Glen Johnson and Shay Given back involved after spells out with knee and groin problems respectively.
Goalkeeper Adrian remains West Ham's only absentee as he is still recovering from a calf problem, so Darren Randolph will continue to deputise.
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic apologised after some fans threw bottles and other objects at Manchester United's team bus on Monday
Boss Slaven Bilic has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from.
Opta stats
Stoke are unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches against West Ham (W2 D3).
The Hammers have won just one of their six final day Premier League matches away from home (W1 D1 L4).
Stoke have won none of their last four Premier League matches at the Britannia Stadium (D2 L2). Not beating West Ham would see them equal their longest run without a home win in the Premier League (five games September 2012).
Stoke have slipped down the table after a poor run of form
West Ham are unbeaten in their last five Premier League away games (W2 D3), scoring at least two goals in each of those matches.
West Ham will finish the season with a positive goal difference (currently +15) for the first time in a top-flight campaign since 1985/86.
Paul Merson's predictionsSee who the Magic Man is tipping to win on the final weekend <http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15205/10279216/mersons-predictions>
The Hammers have already registered their best-ever points haul in a Premier League campaign (62, five more than their next best return of 57 in 1998/99).
Austrian attacker Marko Arnautovic needs one goal to become Stoke's outright top-scorer in a single Premier League campaign (currently level on 11 with Ricardo Fuller 08/09 and Mame Biram Diouf 14/15).
Merson's prediction
I'm doing this game for Soccer Special and I think the Hammers will win. If they do they have a chance of finishing fifth and after all their hard work the other day, they will be keen to get another good result. Stoke have played some good football through the season but sometimes they are not as hard to beat as they used to be.
They are good footballers and you are always going to get hot and cold when you get those kind of players. Some of them are luxury players and when they are hot they are hot and when they are cold they are cold.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2 (15/2 with Sky Bet
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic urges West Ham to finish strong against Stoke to secure Europa League football
By Michael Kelleher & Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 13/05/16 12:02pm
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic wants to cap an impressive season with European qualifcation
Slaven Bilic has urged West Ham to replicate their performance against Manchester United when they face Stoke, live on Sky Sports 3, as they attempt to nail down a place in the Europa League.
The Hammers, who defeated United 3-2 in their final match at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday , will secure a place in next season's Europa League if they win at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday, live on Sky Sports 3.
"Stoke will want to finish on a high, but all we have to do is try to replicate the performance from Tuesday night and win the game. That will give us minimum sixth and if Manchester United slip up, we can move to fifth.
"Stoke have been on a bad run, but I've watched their games and it's like they've played teams that have been on fire. We are expecting a difficult game and we will have to be on top of our game to do the job.
"It would be nice to have Europa League football because we have had a good season and it would be good to get something out of it."
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic apologises after some fans threw bottles and other objects at Manchester United's team bus on Tuesday
With Manchester City certain to finish no lower than fifth due to their goal difference, the Europa League berth they earned by winning the Capital One Cup will go to the sixth-placed team.
If Crystal Palace win the FA Cup, they will enter the Europa League at the group stage. However, if Manchester United win, that place will be given to the seventh-placed team.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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