First and Last - Reece Oxford
WHUFC.com
As West Ham United's final season at the Boleyn Ground draws to a close, we've asked our players for some memorable lasts from their careers and lives, as well as some firsts. Reece Oxford goes under the spotlight…
FIRSTS
What was the first CD you bought?
The first CD I bought was probably Drake – 'Sooner than Later'. He has had so many songs that I don't actually remember the time I bought it but it must have been a few years ago.
Tell us about the first goal you scored for West Ham United?
It was for the Under-13s. I was playing as a striker back then and I scored a scrappy goal against Charlton. I got moved about a bit that year and played up front for half the season.
Who would be the first teammate you would call up for a quiz?
If we are talking about intelligence I would have to say Joey O'Brien as he knows his stuff.
Who would be the first person you would vote off the X Factor and why?
Cheikhou Kouyate. He is not a good singer but he might actually get through because he is very funny.
LASTS
What was the last concert you went to?
I went to see Stormzy, who is a rap artist.
Who is the last teammate you would want to be stuck in a lift with?
I would have to say Elliot Lee. He would just moan and moan and would drive me crazy.
Who is the last player you would take fashion advice from?
I would not take any fashion advice from Angelo Ogbonna. I am more tight-fitted and he is more baggy-fitted!
What is the last book you read?
Rio Ferdinand's autobiography. I really enjoyed it because it was about his life in football and all his ups and downs. He used to be a striker and then moved to centre-half so I can relate to him a lot and of course we both come through the Academy at West Ham so I would love to follow in his footsteps.
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Lanzini named in provisional Olympic squad
WHUFC.com
Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's provisional 30-man squad for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The West Ham United attacking midfielder enjoyed an outstanding debut season in Claret and Blue and could now pull on his country's famous blue and white striped shirt in Brazil in August. Argentina coach Gerardo Martino will name his final squad of 18 players on 14 July, with Lanzini being tipped to be among them. The two-times Olympic champions will be seeking to add to the titles they won in Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008. This time around, Argentina have been drawn in Group D will tackle Portugal in Rio on 4 August, Algeria in the same location on 7 August and Honduras in Brasilia on 10 August. Should La Celeste advance, the final will be held at the legendary Estadio Maracana in Rio on 20 August.
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Hammers sign young forward Quina
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm the signing of outstanding young Portuguese forward Domingos Quina. The exciting former Benfica schoolboy will report to the Hammers in July, having recently been crowned a UEFA European U17 champion, with West Ham beating some of Europe's leading sides to the 16-year-old's signature. Quina, who was born in the West African nation of Guinea-Bissau before moving to Portugal as a child, will arrive on an initial two-year scholarship, subject to international clearance, and has agreed terms to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday in November. Academy Director and Head of Player Coaching and Development Terry Westley said the Club had pulled off a major coup in securing Quina's services.
"Attracting a player of Domingos's quality and potential to the Club is recognition of the stature with which the West Ham United Academy is held," Westley began. "Domingos spent a month training with us before heading to the European Championship finals and he has seen what we are all about, the way we work and the pathway and plans we put in place for our young players. "Domingos is an exciting young player and he has seen that we can help him to develop and make the most of his many talents at West Ham United. He wants to come on our journey the same as the likes of Martin Samuelsen, Reece Oxford and Reece Burke see their futures here. "Slaven Bilic personally met with Domingos during the time he spent training with us and his interest in the player and the discussion they had undoubtedly helped to persuade him that West Ham was the right place to continue his development. "This is a big signing for the Academy and for West Ham United."
Quina has long been considered one of Portuguese football's brightest prospects – an opinion confirmed by his outstanding displays at the recent European U17 Championship finals in Azerbaijan. There, the young forward featured in all six matches, scoring in the group-stage victory over Scotland before starting his country's victory over Spain in the final. Prior to that, Quina put in a virtuoso performance showcasing his attacking skills in a 7-3 victory over England U17s at the FA International Tournament in October 2015. "Domingos has just won the European U17 Championship and is some talent," Academy Manager Westley continued. "Having seen him train with us for four weeks, I cannot wait for him to arrive back and see what he can do. "For me, he has the same qualities as a Manuel Lanzini, in that he likes to come deep and receive the ball and then run with it, while he also possesses the quality to run in behind – he is both a goal-scorer and a goal-creator. "As I said, this is a potentially massive signing for West Ham United."
Quina becomes the second forward to join West Ham ahead of the 2016/17 season, following 18-year-old Toni Martinez, who has arrived from Spanish side Valencia. Meanwhile, a host of players have agreed new long-term contracts with the Club, with Jahmal Hector-Ingram, Anthony Scully, Vashon Neufville, Moses Makasi, Dan Kemp, Tunji Akinola, Joe Powell and Grady Diangana all pledging their futures to the Hammers in recent days.
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Noble - This is a season I will never forget
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble will never forget leading his side in the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground and says it was an honour to captain the team in such a memorable campaign. Noble was handed the armband last summer and showed his leadership qualities straight away as he helped the players record famous away wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in the early part of the season. The 29-year-old produced some of the best football of his career as the Hammers continued to challenge in the top half of the table and secured a European place for the second consecutive season.
Noble, who also celebrated a memorable Testimonial was thrilled to play his part in a record breaking season for Slaven Bilic's side and hopes they will continue to challenge the big teams when they make a historic move into the new Stadium during the summer. Noble said: "There has been a lot to celebrate from last season – not just the way we played and the results we had, but we have set records with the most points, the most goals, away wins and have set a lot of records. "That is down to team spirit and I have a great bunch of players around me. To lead this team in the final season at the Boleyn Ground with the results we have enjoyed has been phenomenal. "It is definitely a season that I will never forget."
Noble feels West Ham and the rest of the Premier League will take a lot of encouragement from Leicester winning the title last season and says it will have a big impact on the rest of Europe. Noble added: "I don't think it gives hope to teams just in England, but the whole of Europe. "There are teams who would never have believed what Leicester have done, but they fully deserved it and have not done it by being lucky. "They have earned it and given everyone hope – not just West Ham, the Premier League but the whole of Europe."
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Bo66y to return to Barking
WHUFC.com
West Ham United fans can pay tribute to the Club's greatest player at a special charity screening of Bo66y – The Movie in his home borough of Barking.
The film, which was produced by lifelong Hammer and broadcaster Matt Lorenzo, has received rave reviews and attracted a host of football's biggest names to a gala premiere at Wembley Stadium.
Now, east London-based supporters have a unique opportunity to attend a screening of Bo66y – a biopic featuring amazing archive footage and tributes from those who knew the late West Ham and England captain best – at The Broadway Theatre in Barking on 2 June at 7pm.
All proceeds from the event will go to The Moore Family Foundation.
Attending the screening will be Bobby's daughter Roberta and producer Lorenzo, whose father Peter was a close friend of the legendary centre-half.
Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Cllr Darren Rodwell, said: "Bobby was a Barking boy as well as an England and West Ham legend. This screening kick starts our celebrations of the 50th anniversary of England's World Cup win.
"That's why we have made our One Borough Community Day on the 30 July a 1966 World Cup special, because Bobby was from Barking, Sir Alf Ramsey was from Dagenham and Martin Peters lived in the borough.
"So just as Hammers fans can claim West Ham won the World Cup – Barking and Dagenham can say we helped raise the Jules Rimet Trophy too!"
Tickets for the special screening of Bo66y – The Movie cost £20.
To book your seat at this very special event now, please call 020 8507 5607.
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Valencia's Ecuador take on USA
WHUFC.com
West Ham forward Enner Valencia could feature for Ecuador tomorrow as they take on the USA in a Copa America warm-up match.
The South Americans will face the tournament's hosts in Texas in a friendly at 1am UK time in a hope to build momentum prior to the opening stages in the States.
The Yellows will go up against Brazil, Haiti and Peru in Group B of the competition which is the first to be held outside South America.
And Valencia is confident his side can progress from the group stages with the correct preparation in place.
He said: "I had a short time with my family after the season with West Ham finished and then we started preparing for the Copa America.
"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!"
Ecuador kick-off their campaign against five-time World Cup winners Brazil in California on 4 June, before heading to Arizona to take on Peru four days later. Their final group stage game against Haiti is in New Jersey on 12 June.
Valencia was on the scoresheet in his last international outing, bagging the opener in a 2-2 World Cup qualifying draw with Paraguay back in March.
His nation is currently joint-top of the South American qualification standings, with only Uruguay keeping apace at the summit with 13 points.
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Manuel Lanzini, potential Olympian
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini has been named in Argentina's provisional 35-man squad for this summer's Olympic Games. And whilst that's good news for the 22-year-old playmaker, it's not so positive for Hammers boss Slaven Bilic who could potentially lose the talented youngster until 20 August, when the final takes place in Rio de Janeiro. Argentina have been included in Group D of the competition alongside Hondurus, Algeria and Portugal. Group matches commence on 4 August - the same date West Ham are due to play the second leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie. The Hammers midfielder is one of two Premier League-based players to receive their first call-up, along with Everton's Ramiro Funes Mori.
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Samuelsen gets the nod
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Martin Samuelsen has been called up for the full Norway squad to face Portugal in a friendly. West Ham United's exciting young attacking midfielder has been called up for the first time and could make his full debut against the Portuguese on Sunday afternoon. Although he made just two appearances for Slaven Bilic's first team - both in the qualifying stages of the Europea League last summer - the 19-year-old was a huge success on loan at League One Peterborough, for whom he featured on 20 occasions between November and April. Samuelsen is just one of several potential debutants included in Per-Mathias Høgmo's new-look squad. Hibs defender Niklas Gunnarsson is also poised to make his first start, as the likes of Veton Berisha (Greuther Fürth) and Iver Fossum (Hannover). The Norwegians also face Iceland on June 1 and Belgium on June 5. They failed to qualify for this summer's European Championships after losing a two-legged play-off against Hungary 3-1 on aggregate.
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Campaigners urge West Ham to cancel RailHawks clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
One of the two venues West Ham are planning to visit in the US this summer has been boycotted by a number of major international stars already this year. Earlier this month West Ham announced they would be facing NASL outfit Carolina RailHawks at the WakeMed Soccer Park in North Carolina. However that news did not go down too well with the local LGBT community who have urged the club to cancel their trip as a result of the introduction of a controversial piece of legislation known as 'House Bill 2'. The bill, commonly referred to as HB2 states that transgender people in the state of North Carolina must use public toilets "according to the gender denoted on their birth certificate", as opposed to their current gender. And that, stated Winq Publishing Editor and long-term Hammers fan Darren Styles equates to "a vindictive piece of transphobic evil" - before he called upon the club to cancel their trip. "I'd like to think West Ham's arrival in North Carolina is hapless and circumstantial, even if it is careless," Styles wrote in a article for Wing. "It's not like there haven't been daily updates on the story on the BBC website for weeks now. "Having met the Chairmen and owners of the club, I'm as sure as I can be this is by accident rather than design. They care more for their brand than to end up as unwitting patsies for a bitter North Carolina State Governor with too much time on his hands and poison between his ears. "Sadly our attempts to make contact with the club are currently breaking no ice. The club's media department responded to our enquiry and offer of information by saying they'd come back to us "within 28 days" - which suggests an order of priorities in accord with most of football when faced with LGBT issues, but isn't OK. Or close to good enough."
According to the article in Wing, "Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Demi Lovato and the Cirque de Soleil have all cancelled major events in the State" as a result of the legislation, whilst the NBA and NCAA (basketball and athletic associations) have also refused to sanction events in the state. "For sure, this game shouldn't happen," continued Stryles, "at least until sense is restored and the law a thing of the past. In my professional capacity, as the Editor of a gay lifestyle magazine and a supporter of LGBT rights, I call for it to be postponed.
"But as a lifelong West Ham fan, this just got personal, too. I implore the club to think again, and set aside this regrettable fixture in light of events. No good can come of it, and gay fans like me will feel betrayed if you see it through."
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Inter reject West Ham approach
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Inter are understood to have told West Ham that striker Mauro Icardi is not for sale. The 23-year-old Argentine international was the subject of an enquiry from the Hammers this week, according to Corriere dello Sport. However the Serie A side are reported to have told West Ham that Icardi - who scored 16 times in 32 starts for I Nerazzurri last season - is not for sale. The 5'11" goalscorer, who moved to Inter from Sampdoria three seasons ago is also understood to have informed Hammers representatives that he is not currently keen on a move to the Premier League. And that has scuppered any hopes West Ham United - who turned to Icardi after baulking at the asking price for Alexandre Lacazette and Michy Batshuayi - had of triggering a £28million release clause in his contract. Icardi, who holds an Italian passport has been named in Argentina's provisional squad for this summer's Olympics in Rio, along with West Ham's Manuel Lanzini.
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Liverpool join race for £10million-rated West Ham starlet Reece Oxford
16:28, 25 MAY 2016 UPDATED 18:10, 25 MAY 2016
BY SIMON MULLOCK
The Merseysiders failed with an ambitious attempt to snatch the 17-year-old away from the Hammers last summer
The Mirror
Liverpool have joined the race to sign West Ham's teenage talent Reece Oxford. The Merseysiders failed with an ambitious attempt to snatch the 17-year-old away from the Hammers last summer before he had even made his senior debut. But they are back in the hunt after being made aware that Oxford is available for around £10million after rejecting West Ham's offer of a new contract. The Reds face stiff competition from both Manchester clubs. But Jurgen Klopp is hoping that his reputation for putting his trust in young players will persuade Oxford to opt for Anfield.
Oxford's versatility - he can play centre-back or as a defensive midfielder - is a big plus for Klopp as he looks to strengthen his Liverpool squad. The player is looking to get his future sorted before he reports for England Under-19 duty next week. Aidy Boothroyd's young Lions are embarking on a two-game trip to Mexico as they prepare for next month's junior Euros in Germany. Oxford, who became West Ham's youngest-ever player when he made his debut last July when he made his debut against FC Lusitanos in the Europa League, has two years left on his current deal.
He is widely regarded as one of the hottest young prospects in the English game and West Ham's asking price has not put off the three north-west giants.
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It looks over but Irons sweat on change of heart
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Go French Football have confirmed the reason Alexandre Lacazette had turned down a move to the Hammers because of their absence fom the Champons League. ClaretandHugh revealed several days ago this was the reason although Hammers insiders continue to hope even now there could be a late change of heart. However it nw looks a srong odds on bet that the player will be on his way to Paris St Germain whom we are told have been chasing him and holding talks through intermediaries since January. The Hammers meanwhile are playing their cards close to their chest after Slaven Bilic ordered a clampdown on leaks and one source said: " That maybe for precisely that reason or because there is little progress on the striker front. "There was a lot stacked on the Lacazette deal but all that appears to have hapened is that the price has been hiked up on behalf of Lyon. Previous target Michy Batshuayi is now off the radar with the Hammers having colled on the player who would beavailable at around 40 million euros.
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Juventus striker back on transfer list
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Reports in Italy suggest Juventus striker Simone Zaza is back on West Ham's latest transfer target again this summer. He joined Massimiliano Allegri's side last summer from Sassuolo in an €18 million deal, hitting the back of the net five times in Serie A action. If true, West Ham aren't alone in showing interest to the frontman, who they've been linked with over the past twelve months, however, Premier League rivals Southampton are also mulling over a move for the 24-year-old it is claimed. After making just five starts in league competition for the Old Lady last season, the player's future is in peril and might be allowed to depart the Juventus Stadium if the right offer is made. In the January transfer window, the club's ITK Boleyn Insider wrote at the time: "My understanding is that Zaza is a player the club greatly admire and they tried to sign him last summer. He scored again on Wednesday night and the Club might try something again this month."
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Black Lion hopes fans will still come to historic pub
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
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The Black Lion pub in Plaistow hopes fans will still make the East End pub part of their pre or post match ritual when West Ham move to the Olympic Stadium in August. The famous pub was once the regular drinking establishment of Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst. Hurst recently said "My most cherished memory was drinking at the Black Lion pub after the game. We didn't need any encouragement after a game to have a drink. Like any players in those days. "You couldn't see players today going to the Black Lion and having a drink today. Or any players these days going to the pub. The relationship between the players and the fans has changed dramatically, like everything else in football. Harry Redknapp also used to frequent the drinking hole in the old days
Harry said "After a game all of us would make our way to the Black Lion pub in Plaistow, not too far from the ground. The pub is still there but I bet not too many professional footballers use the place any more, as nice as it is.We'd have a couple of beers, music would be playing and we'd be chatting about football to journalists or anyone else who'd listen."
The Boleyn Tavern will be running a £120 per year membership scheme to transport supporters to to Olympic Stadium but the Black Lion landlord, Tom Friel won't be following suite. He told Claret and Hugh Exclusively "I have looked at all options, the feeling I got from my football fan customers is that most would like to still use the Black Lion but rather than try and run a coach service (and get them to stump up £120) the number 241 bus from opposite the Black Lion takes just 5-6 minutes to Stratford station and 10-12 minutes to the Olympic stadium, there are bus lanes 90% of the way! That will be much quicker and less expensive than the 'Boleyn' option . I hope this is of help to you and the West Ham fans that want to experience the good beer, good food and friendly atmosphere of the Black Lion , with thanks , Tom Friel of the Black Lion"
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West Ham Ribman moves to Stratford
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
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West Ham season ticket holder Mark Gevaux, better known as the Rib Man for his succulent baby-back pork-rib meat stuffed into floury buns and topped with a lava-like splodge of his own hot sauce has moved to Stratford ahead of West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium. Nicknamed the "godfather of street food", Gevaux spent three seasons serving his famous ribs to West Ham fans from a pop Ribs2up table outside the Boleyn Tavern on the corner of Green street and Barking road. He describes his slow cooked pork as the best ribs in London and he also has a stall in Brick Lane. Speaking to Claret and Hugh Mark revealed "I have moved into Truman's brewery on fish island – its right behind the Olympic Stadium and we will be doing memberships – that's on top of me trying to get into the stadium" Ribs3The Ribman has already met with Olympic Stadium American caterers, Delaware North in the hope his famous ribs can be served inside the Stadium nest season but he is not leaving anything to chance by moving half a mile away from the former Olympic Stadium in Stratford. Details of the new Ribman & Truman membership scheme will announced soon he told us.
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Irons scouts on the prowl
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
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West Ham will be sending scouts to Euro 2016 but are unlikely to be clinchng any deals ahead of the competition in France. Despite plenty of hopeful speculation that we will be completing deals over the next two or three weeks, the Irons are struggling to get land initial targets. And de factor director of football David Sullivan is not a man who will be held to ransom on prices with value for month the key issue in all deals. We were told this morning that the European Finals would be allowed to pass and though no doubt there will be negotiations with agents, deals are very unlikely to be concluded. Our souce said: "We will obviously have scouts in place keeping an eye open at possible targets but we are relaxed about the situation. There's plenty of time."
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Hammers sign Chelsea midfielder
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 25, 2016 in News, Whispers
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a-domingos-arsenal-football_3438684West Ham has confirmed the signing of Chelsea youth attacking midfielder, Domingos Quina.
The official site says the exciting former Benfica schoolboy will report to the Hammers in July, having recently been crowned a UEFA European U17 champion, with West Ham beating some of Europe's leading sides to the 16-year-old's signature.
QuinaThe 16-year-old midfielder signed after being persuaded that he had a better chance of progressing through to the first team in West Ham's set-up. Spurs, Liverpool, Manchester City and United were all said to chasing Quina, who turned down the chance to stay at Chelsea as he believed his progress would be limited.
Born in Guinea Bissau, Quina was brought up in Portugal and left Benfica for Chelsea as a 13-year-old. The skilful attacking midfielder, Quina is regarded as one of Portugal's best prospects, has starred for their Under 17s and is tipped to become a regular full international in the future. The move represents a coup for West Ham and puts the Academy back on the map as the destination for promising talent.
Quina will arrive on an initial two-year scholarship, subject to international clearance, and has agreed terms to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday in November.
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West Ham transfer news: Hammers co-chairman David Gold rubbishes Michail Antonio to Middlesbrough rumours
By talkSPORT - @talkSPORT
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
West Ham chairman David Gold has told Middlesbrough to 'dream on' if they want to sign Michail Antonio this summer. Boro finished second in the Championship last season and will return to the Premier League for the first time in seven years this August. The club have now set about formulating a list of transfer targets for the upcoming summer transfer window to bolster their squad for the new season. Antonio is reportedly high on Middlesbrough's shortlist after manager Aitor Karanka sent scouts to watch him in action last month. But Gold has now poured cold water on the rumour by tweeting his surprise at Boro's belief that they can sign the 26-year-old. Gold tweeted: "Evening Standard – Newly promoted Middlesbrough have reportedly identified Michail Antonio as a key target this summer. (Dream on. dg)."
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WEST HAM SEEKS POT OF GOLD, BUT NO RAINBOW IN NORTH CAROLINA
By Iain Dale 25 May 2016 at 08:49
WTID
Guest Post by Darren Styles
Springsteen boycotts, Obama sues, but the Premier League's West Ham United follow the money? to North Carolina anyway… Darren Styles, Winq Publishing Editor, a life-long fan, isn't impressed.
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread. So goes the adage. Another suggests all that glitters is not gold. As Premier League West Ham United? may shortly find out – having agreed to play a pre-season friendly football (soccer) match in North Carolina on 12th July.
"It's a fantastic opportunity to grow our brand in a developing market," the club coos. "There's such a strong grass roots game in North Carolina, and it's a place where – off the back of a great season – we can come and enjoy absolutely first-rate facilities and quality opponents in the Carolina RailHawks."
The speaker, in a live radio interview with a North Carolina radio station, is West Ham United's Commercial Director, Felicity Barnard. You can hear her enthusiasm for the opening of a new market, you can imagine the projections for a replica kit sales uplift, you can take for granted the glee of the new residents of the Olympic Stadium ?at their foresight of adding the word 'London' to the club badge ahead of the move to Stratford. North Carolina residents having heard of London. Probably.
As someone who first visited West Ham's just-defunct Boleyn Ground in 1973, and who has been – variously – a season-ticket holder and/or box holder since, I know exactly where Green Street, E13, is. But then I'm not the target audience in North Carolina. Or, for that matter, in North Korea. Where, Felicity failed to mention, even they haven't just imposed draconian and discriminatory anti-LGBT laws. Because, for all the world's wrestling with a problem like North Korea, it's in North Carolina that LGBT life has recently moved significantly backwards.
Oh Carolina.?
It's not gone well. As a result of what North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory has done to remove protections from, and legislate against, LGBT rights, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Demi Lovato and the Cirque de Soleil have all cancelled major events in the State, and the National Basketball Association (the NBA) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) have said they'll not sanction a single sporting contest there until the law is reversed. Apple, PayPal, Deutsche Bank and the Bank of America are boycotting too.
And now the President is coming for North Carolina. It seems passing a law that deliberately invalidates several anti-discrimination measures designed to protect gay and transgender people hasn't played well in the Oval Office. The law suit from the capital vs North Carolina is in.
"What this law does is inflict further indignity on a population that has suffered far more than its fair share," says Attorney General Loretta Lynch. "But we see you, we stand with you, and we will do everything we can to protect you. [This piece of] State legislation puts North Carolina in direct conflict with federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity, and state-sanctioned discrimination never works and never looks good in hindsight."
Oh Carolina. You should have invited Millwall, not West Ham. They are the team that sings "nobody likes us, and we don't care." A much better fit.
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Daily WHUFC News -
Development Squad pre-season confirmed
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm the Development Squad's 2016/17 pre-season schedule. The Hammers' young professionals have six matches penned-in as they prepare for the new campaign.
All six will be played away from home, with the pre-season starting with a trip to National League South club Chelmsford City at Melbourne Stadium on the evening of Friday 15 July.
Four days later, Academy Manager and Head of Coaching and Player Development Terry Westley will take a side to London Road to face Peterborough United on Tuesday 19 July at 7.30pm. Saturday 23 July will see the reigning U21 Premier League Cup holders make the short trip to the seaside to tackle Southend United at Roots Hall in a 3pm kick-off. The Development Squad will then travel to the Netherlands for a week-long training camp hosted by partner club VVV-Venlo, which will also feature two pre-season fixtures. First up is a clash with Jong PSV on Wednesday 27 July at 7pm, before the young Hammers take on their hosts in the Herman Teeuwen Memorial Cup on Saturday 30 July at 3pm. Both Dutch fixtures will be held at Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel. Westley and his players will then return to England to complete their preparations with a trip to Cobham to take on Chelsea on Friday 5 August at 1pm. Ticket details for these fixtures will be published on whufc.com and across our social media channels as and when they are confirmed.
Development Squad – 2016/17 Pre-season Fixtures
v Chelmsford City, Melbourne Stadium, Friday 15 July, 7.45pm
v Peterborough United, London Road, Tuesday 19 July, 7.30pm
v Southend United, Roots Hall, Saturday 23 July, 3pm
v Jong PSV, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Wednesday 27 July, 7pm CEST
v VVV-Venlo, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Saturday 30 July, 3pm CEST
v Chelsea, Cobham training ground, Friday 5 August, 1pm
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Antonio - I want to be even stronger next season
WHUFC.com
It has been an unforgettable season for Michail Antonio who made a dream move into the Premier League last summer and has turned out to be one of the star performers for West Ham United.
Antonio was forced to be patient for his chance in the first-team following his switch from Nottingham Forest but he never looked back following his breakthrough into the team against Manchester United at Old Trafford back in December. The 26-year-old went on to score nine goals and produced some memorable celebrations along the way as he played his part in helping the Hammers secure their highest ever points tally in the Premier League. Antonio was rewarded for his impressive displays when he picked up the Best Individual Performance against Tottenham when he capped a fine display with the winning goal. The talented winger says it has been a memorable campaign and hopes he will grow even stronger when the Club prepare to play at the new Stadium next season. Antonio said: "I was really honoured to pick up that award, especially as it was my first year in the Premier League. "If I am honest I was not expecting it as I thought Dimitri would have picked up this award. "But I am over the moon to have won it and hopefully I can keep moving on."
The victory over Tottenham back in March turned out to be of one of the best games at the Boleyn Ground last season and Antonio says he can still recall the instructions from first-team coach Edin Terzic that helped him score the crucial match winner. "I remember the game very well and Edin coming to me at the start of the game and telling me to make a run to the front post. "I remember pushing Chadli off me and spinning and then heading the ball into the back of the net. "I think the fans enjoyed the celebrations after the goal. The atmosphere was amazing that night and the fans kept pushing us. We managed to get the early goal and maintain it against a strong Tottenham team."
Antonio is now hoping to make an even bigger impact next season and hopes the Club can maintain their impressive form and challenge once again in the top half of the table. "There have been so many emotions for me since I joined the Club. At the start of the season I had to settle for a place on the bench, but once I got in I managed to stay in the team and have played every game. "I just want to keep my head down now and keep going for next season."
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Stadium wrap gets the green light!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to reveal that planning permission has been granted for a spectacular wrap solution for the Club's new Stadium.
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) Planning Decisions Committee met on Tuesday evening to rubber stamp the proposal to install the largest digital screen in Europe at the Hammers' new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The high-definition (HD) screen, which will measure 83m wide by 12m high, will be flanked by 68 12m high fabric panels similar to those used at Wembley Stadium, the Emirates Stadium and Celtic Park.
Following a lengthy and intricate process involving leading digital experts, the approved designs will set a new benchmark in world stadia, adding another marquee feature to an already iconic venue.
For West Ham matches, Hammers fans will be able to enjoy clips of their heroes past and present as they make their approach to the world-famous venue they will call home from August. So expect goals from Dimitri Payet or classic clips from Bobby Moore's heyday to enthral the Claret and Blue Army on their way in to the Stadium.
The panels will contain five West Ham United crests measuring 6.8m high and 7.5m wide, as well as other signage and branding for West Ham and the Stadium Sponsor, and will be uplit during specified hours of darkness.
To complete a stunning design that will revolutionise the exterior of the Stadium, two internally illuminated marquee signs spelling out the words 'West Ham United' in Claret and Blue will also be installed. These too will be illuminated during specified hours of darkness.
This is key to the Club's absolute commitment to ensuring the Stadium looks and feels like the unmistakable home of West Ham United.
Like the fabric panels, this screen will be similar in brightness and size to those currently in use at Wembley Stadium. And crucial to that end, the screens will be designed to respond to different brightness settings, meaning definition remains at an optimum level for day or night games in any weather condition.
The exciting new plans – which replace the previously submitted application – also include prominent, Olympic legacy-inspired Claret and Blue shards and the Club's crest and colours.
The new installation will provide immense benefit to all partners of the Stadium, enabling events throughout the year to have a highly-visible, cutting edge digital platform for content, information and promotional material, all in glorious HD.
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The Big Interview - Phil Jupitus
WHUFC.com
Television star Phill Jupitus has seen a number of magical moments at the Boleyn Ground standing on the famous North Bank and will never forget a special moment with his daughter that involved Carlos Tevez.
As the Club prepare for a historic move to the new Stadium during the summer, Jupitus looks back at his time attending the Boleyn Ground and describes what makes it one of the most unique stadiums in Europe....
Phill, this has been an emotional time for everyone connected with the Club. What are your feelings on the big move away from the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "It is strange because you think about the size of the place and the physical closeness to games.
"Obviously the sport has changed immeasurably over the last 20 years and it is certainly the passing of an era. The move had to happen."
What are your standout memories from attending the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "I used to work for a fanzine called 'Fortunes Always Hiding' and my nickname with the lads was part-time Porky as I used to wake up on a Saturday morning and decide if I want to go to the game and that is an age that has passed. "I lived in Bow and used to wake up on a Saturday and think do I want to go to the Pictures or go to the football. You could just turn up a the footie with a fiver and get in! "I miss that and standing on the old shelf on the left hand side of the North Bank. I used to stand up there by the Tea Bar and it was a great view of the goal.
"I know the away fans have been situated there so I hope they enjoy it as well! I used to really enjoy the North Bank and miss that a lot."
You have seen a number of entertaining players over the years. If you had to pick out one favourite who would it be and why?
PJ: "There was a time when I brought my daughter and Carlos Tevez was playing. I remember turning to her and saying this man is going to score a goal now! What he will do is kick the ball and it will curve in the air and into the corner of the net. "He scored the goal and she looked at me like I was a wizard! It was a one-off but the way we took to Tevez and he took to us said a lot about the Club.
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West Ham's £85million windfall
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United earned in excess of £85million from prize money payments during the 2015/16 season. West Ham's income of £85.765,168 was the eighth-highest figure amongst Premier League clubs. Although the Hammers received less than both Liverpool and Chelsea, despite finishing above both in the table, they earned around £1million more than sixth-placed Southampton.
West Ham's windfall consisted of £17.4million from merit money (the reward for finishing seventh in the table), £12.5million from facility fees (dependant on the number of live matches broadcast), £22million from domestic TV deals, £29.5million from overseas TV deals and finally, £4.5million from a pooled central commercial (ie sponsor) fund.
The highest earners were Arsenal, who earned £101million - that's £4million more than Manchester City (£97million) and Manchester United and £8million more than Premier League champions Leicester City, who earned the fifth-highest revenue.
In stark contrast, Aston Villa - who finished bottom of the league and were relegated to the Championship - received just shy of £67million, which Norwich (£67million) and Bournemouth (£71million) made up the bottom three.
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Hammers go Posh this summer
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Details of a second pre-season friendly have been announced for this July. A West Ham XI will travel to the ABAX stadium on Tuesday, 19 July to face League One outfit Peterborough United for the second successive year. The Posh are currently manager by former Hammer Grant McCann, who was named as the permanent successor to Graham Westley earlier this month. Slaven Bilic's current squad will be hoping to better last July's result when the two sides drew 3-3, with West Ham's goals coming from Mark Noble, Diafra Sakho and Martin Samuelsen. The match was also notable for a standing ovation given to former Hammer Jack Collison as he warmed up on the sidelines for Peterborough. Collison has since retired from the game due to his injuries. Earlier today it was confirmed that West Ham would also be visiting fellow League One side Southend United this July. The current confirmed pre-season schedule is as follows.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
19 July: Peterborough Utd (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
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New pre-season fixture confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
A West Ham United XI will face Southend United at Roots Hall on Saturday, 23 July. The Hammers will make the almost annual trip down the A13 to face the Shrimpers in a pre-season friendly this summer, according to the League One club. Last season DImitri Payet made his West Ham debut against the Shrimpers, netting twice and providing an assist as the Hammers ran out 3-2 winners.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
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Reports: West Ham launch fresh Tore bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are reported to have made a fresh offer for Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore. A number of sources are this morning running with news of talks between the two parties to determine a fee for the 24-year-old, who Hammers boss Slaven Bilic rates highly from his time in Turkey. West Ham were reported to have had a €10million offer for Tore rejected last January. And just last month, Besiktas vice-president Ahmet Nur Cebi admitted that his club would be prepared to allow the German-born forward to leave the club - but not for less than €30million. "We do not intend to sell anyone at the moment," said Cebi, speaking at the time. "But if they offer €30million (circa £24million) for a player we paid €5million for, we would have to think about it."
Bilic has previously gone on record with his admiration for Tore's talent. Speaking to Socrates magazine last October, he revaled that he had tried to make the player one of his first captures when arriving at the Boleyn Ground. "Gokhan is a legend," said Bilic. "He is a top guy and a great player. Of course I would love to have him in the team [at West Ham]. I tried to sign him at the start of the season, but it was not the right time."
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West Ham in talks to sign Gokhan Tore, according to Sky sources
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 24/05/16 12:00pm
SSN
West Ham are in advanced talks to sign winger Gokhan Tore from Besiktas, according to Sky sources. Negotiations are ongoing for the 24-year-old, with the Turkish club believed to value their player at £12m. The Hammers are looking to bolster their squad ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium and a Europa League campaign and have already agreed a deal to bring Norway midfielder Havard Nordtveit to the club when the transfer window opens. But manager Slaven Bilic wants further reinforcements to build on his promising first season at the club, although a £31m bid for Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette and a £25m bid for Bournemouth pair Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie have failed in recent weeks. Tore, who spent two years at Chelsea as a youth player after being found by Frank Arnesen while playing for Bayer Leverkusen, signed a five-year deal at Besiktas in 2014 after a £3m move from Rubin Kazan. He has won 26 caps for Turkey and has been named in the 31-man provisional squad for Euro 2016.
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Hammers target hopes look dead in water
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Regular speculation that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a West Ham target looks dead in the water this morning with Jose Mourinho reportedly ready to take over the reins at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Paris St-Germain and United are set to hand him a one-year, £250,000-a-week contract. The Swedish superstar was seen as an ideal candidate to join the Olympic Stadium-bound Hammers but the free signing now looks a strong favourite to join the Mourinho OT regime. The pair know each other well and sources strongly tip a year's contract for the 34 year old under his former boss who also has to look at the situation involving Reece Oxford. It has been strongly reported that United were plotting a £10 million move under sacked Louis van Gaal although Hammers insiders claim he is going nowhere. However Mourinho will be looking at any proposed business on the United agenda and take a view so nothing can be ruled out at this stage.
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French striker targets valued at €90m
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Lyon president has told French newspaper Le Progres that ideally they want to keep hold of Alexandre-Lacazette but he has not categorically ruled out a sale of the 24 year old this summer. It has now been claimed that the Ligue 1 outfit have slapped on an asking price of 50million euros [£38.7m] and are not prepared to lower their valuation.
It remains to be seen if the Hammers would ever match Lyon's demands but they may have to move quickly as a number of clubs have been linked with Lacazette in recent weeks, including PSG, Spurs and Atletico Madrid.
LacazMeanwhile, Olympique de Marseille is said to value their prized striker, Michy Batshuayi at €40million (£31m) mostly due to a sell-on clause in his contract.
According to Mercato 365, Spurs sent scouts were in attendance at the Stade de France on Saturday evening as Marseille lost 4-2 to Paris Saint-Germain in the Coupe de France final. The 22-year-old has scored 24 goals and supplied 10 assists in 51 matches in all competitions this season, including 17 goals and nine assists from 36 Ligue 1 encounters.
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Vardy release bait clause
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Jamie Vardy is available to Champions League clubs although his personal demands are likely to remain out of West Ham's reach. The 29 year old is understood to have a £25 million release trigger in his contract and the Irons are ready to pay the fee. Any talking cannot take place until after the transfer window opens but it is well known that the club has had him on the radar but with one more bumper deal in prospect the Hammers are set to be priced out of that market. We understand that a minimum £100k a week plus first team appearance bonuses would be involved and that could rise to as high as £125k plus. Vardy has regularly pledged loyalty to the Foxes but the fact he can be prised away for a cut price fee will alert Premier League rivals. Vardy's release clause is reported as having been inserted into the contract he signed in February, and was also apparently extensively scouted by Manchester City during his 24-goal Premier League campaign.
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Boleyn Pub SOS
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
The famous Boleyn pub, on the corner of Green Street and Barking Road is preparing for life after after the Boleyn Ground is demolished by offering a membership scheme for West Ham supporters. They are asking their football regulars to pay £120 annual membership to stop the place being closed down. The membership fee will fund private coaches to the former Olympic stadium on home match days but members will also receive a discount at the bar. The posters in the windows read like an SOS saying : "As you all know West Ham United are moving to the Olympic Stadium, Stratford for the 2016/2017 season. We want to keep the spirit of the The Boleyn Pub going, so we are offering an annual membership that will provide transport from the Boleyn to Stratford for every home game. You will also receive bar discounts on every home and away games. To find out more or to sign up for your membership call us or speak to one of our bar staff. Call us on 0208472 2182?
The Black Lion in Plaistow, another West Ham pub, is also looking at transporting fans to Stratford.
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Michail Antonio is not for Sale
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
We know the silly season is now in full swing with the ludicrous suggestion linking Michail Antonio with newly promoted Middlesbrough today. The transfer gossip section of the London evening standard writes: "Even newly promoted teams will have a significant amount of bargaining power and Middlesbrough, who are set to compete in the top tier next term, have reportedly identified West Ham's Michail Antonio as a key target. The versatile midfielder, who can also play at right-back, proved to be a slow burner for Slaven Bilic's side but enjoyed a stellar second half of the season.The Hammers are not thought to be keen to sell while Boro are willing to offer up to £8 million for the 26-year-old." The suggestion that West Ham would entertain bids for Antonio is just plain daft in the first place, never mind the cheap £8m price tag and why Michail would consider leaving West Ham to join Middlesbrough. They really haven't thought this one through very well. I think we can safety put this one to bed and not worry about it too much.
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Hammers play cards close to chest on winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham were this morning reported to be in advanced talks with Beiktas flying winger Gokhan Tore. But although they have admitted to us in the past he is a potential target the club were refusing to put anything on the record when ClaretandHugh contacted them a few minutes ago That, however, is sometimes the best indicator that a deal may indeed be on the cards. Slaven Bilic has called for a clampdown on transfer leaks within the club but both the morning newspapers and Sky are claiming the deal is close. Our senior source said simply: "No comment – we are running with for 25 players." The player however is a huge Bilic favourite and the manager wanted to sign him at the stat of his Hammers reign last summer. We were indeed told a couple of weeks ago that Tore was a target alhough a striker wasthe bigger priority and that the club would only move in on the Turk sooner if they failed with bids in that area.
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Juventus match restricted to 54,000
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Demand for Juventus friendly match on Sunday 7th August continues to grow with the club are confident that they will sell out all 54,000 tickets by the end of this week. A source close to the ticket office told Claret and Hugh at lunch time "We expect a sell out most likely by the end of the week. It has been incredible sales figures" The pre season friendly against Werder Bremen on 2nd August last year managed just 9,919 supporters despite being the final season at the Boleyn Ground. When Claret and Hugh checked the ticket premium rate hotline at 12 noon there were 11 people in the queue with an average wait time of 24 minutes. The Juventus sell out will limited to 54,000 seats rather than the increased 60,000 capacity of the converted stadium. Our source told us "At present the stadium is part of the initial test stage which is set to 54,000 for safety certificate reasons, therefore it allows a preview in advance of the first 60,000 game a week later "
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Hammers linked with French left back
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Reports in the Daily Mail suggest West Ham have made enquiries for Lille left back Djibril Sidibe. Watford, Arsenal , Everton and Lyon are also reported to have made enquiries for the 23-year-old, who can also play as a right back. Sidibe is valued at 15 million euros (£11.5m) by his club, who finished the 2015-16 season in fifth place in Ligue 1. Everton reportedly had a £10million bid for Lille left-back rejected this week while Lyon and Watford have both scouted the defender. Arsenal are said to be willing to make a move if the out-of-favour Kieran Gibbs leaves the club. Sidibé can play as a full back on the right or left, but can also be utilized in the midfield in a defensive position. He began his career at his hometown club Troyes in 2000 at the age of eight. Sidibé made his professional debut on 17 September 2010 in a French league match against Grenoble. After helping earn Troyes promotion to Ligue 1, the then 19-year-old signed for Lille in July 2012, as cover for Mathieu Debuchy. Sidibé made his debut for Lille on 25 August 2012 against Nice.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm the Development Squad's 2016/17 pre-season schedule. The Hammers' young professionals have six matches penned-in as they prepare for the new campaign.
All six will be played away from home, with the pre-season starting with a trip to National League South club Chelmsford City at Melbourne Stadium on the evening of Friday 15 July.
Four days later, Academy Manager and Head of Coaching and Player Development Terry Westley will take a side to London Road to face Peterborough United on Tuesday 19 July at 7.30pm. Saturday 23 July will see the reigning U21 Premier League Cup holders make the short trip to the seaside to tackle Southend United at Roots Hall in a 3pm kick-off. The Development Squad will then travel to the Netherlands for a week-long training camp hosted by partner club VVV-Venlo, which will also feature two pre-season fixtures. First up is a clash with Jong PSV on Wednesday 27 July at 7pm, before the young Hammers take on their hosts in the Herman Teeuwen Memorial Cup on Saturday 30 July at 3pm. Both Dutch fixtures will be held at Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel. Westley and his players will then return to England to complete their preparations with a trip to Cobham to take on Chelsea on Friday 5 August at 1pm. Ticket details for these fixtures will be published on whufc.com and across our social media channels as and when they are confirmed.
Development Squad – 2016/17 Pre-season Fixtures
v Chelmsford City, Melbourne Stadium, Friday 15 July, 7.45pm
v Peterborough United, London Road, Tuesday 19 July, 7.30pm
v Southend United, Roots Hall, Saturday 23 July, 3pm
v Jong PSV, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Wednesday 27 July, 7pm CEST
v VVV-Venlo, Venlo Seacon Stadion – De Koel, Saturday 30 July, 3pm CEST
v Chelsea, Cobham training ground, Friday 5 August, 1pm
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Antonio - I want to be even stronger next season
WHUFC.com
It has been an unforgettable season for Michail Antonio who made a dream move into the Premier League last summer and has turned out to be one of the star performers for West Ham United.
Antonio was forced to be patient for his chance in the first-team following his switch from Nottingham Forest but he never looked back following his breakthrough into the team against Manchester United at Old Trafford back in December. The 26-year-old went on to score nine goals and produced some memorable celebrations along the way as he played his part in helping the Hammers secure their highest ever points tally in the Premier League. Antonio was rewarded for his impressive displays when he picked up the Best Individual Performance against Tottenham when he capped a fine display with the winning goal. The talented winger says it has been a memorable campaign and hopes he will grow even stronger when the Club prepare to play at the new Stadium next season. Antonio said: "I was really honoured to pick up that award, especially as it was my first year in the Premier League. "If I am honest I was not expecting it as I thought Dimitri would have picked up this award. "But I am over the moon to have won it and hopefully I can keep moving on."
The victory over Tottenham back in March turned out to be of one of the best games at the Boleyn Ground last season and Antonio says he can still recall the instructions from first-team coach Edin Terzic that helped him score the crucial match winner. "I remember the game very well and Edin coming to me at the start of the game and telling me to make a run to the front post. "I remember pushing Chadli off me and spinning and then heading the ball into the back of the net. "I think the fans enjoyed the celebrations after the goal. The atmosphere was amazing that night and the fans kept pushing us. We managed to get the early goal and maintain it against a strong Tottenham team."
Antonio is now hoping to make an even bigger impact next season and hopes the Club can maintain their impressive form and challenge once again in the top half of the table. "There have been so many emotions for me since I joined the Club. At the start of the season I had to settle for a place on the bench, but once I got in I managed to stay in the team and have played every game. "I just want to keep my head down now and keep going for next season."
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Stadium wrap gets the green light!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to reveal that planning permission has been granted for a spectacular wrap solution for the Club's new Stadium.
The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) Planning Decisions Committee met on Tuesday evening to rubber stamp the proposal to install the largest digital screen in Europe at the Hammers' new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The high-definition (HD) screen, which will measure 83m wide by 12m high, will be flanked by 68 12m high fabric panels similar to those used at Wembley Stadium, the Emirates Stadium and Celtic Park.
Following a lengthy and intricate process involving leading digital experts, the approved designs will set a new benchmark in world stadia, adding another marquee feature to an already iconic venue.
For West Ham matches, Hammers fans will be able to enjoy clips of their heroes past and present as they make their approach to the world-famous venue they will call home from August. So expect goals from Dimitri Payet or classic clips from Bobby Moore's heyday to enthral the Claret and Blue Army on their way in to the Stadium.
The panels will contain five West Ham United crests measuring 6.8m high and 7.5m wide, as well as other signage and branding for West Ham and the Stadium Sponsor, and will be uplit during specified hours of darkness.
To complete a stunning design that will revolutionise the exterior of the Stadium, two internally illuminated marquee signs spelling out the words 'West Ham United' in Claret and Blue will also be installed. These too will be illuminated during specified hours of darkness.
This is key to the Club's absolute commitment to ensuring the Stadium looks and feels like the unmistakable home of West Ham United.
Like the fabric panels, this screen will be similar in brightness and size to those currently in use at Wembley Stadium. And crucial to that end, the screens will be designed to respond to different brightness settings, meaning definition remains at an optimum level for day or night games in any weather condition.
The exciting new plans – which replace the previously submitted application – also include prominent, Olympic legacy-inspired Claret and Blue shards and the Club's crest and colours.
The new installation will provide immense benefit to all partners of the Stadium, enabling events throughout the year to have a highly-visible, cutting edge digital platform for content, information and promotional material, all in glorious HD.
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The Big Interview - Phil Jupitus
WHUFC.com
Television star Phill Jupitus has seen a number of magical moments at the Boleyn Ground standing on the famous North Bank and will never forget a special moment with his daughter that involved Carlos Tevez.
As the Club prepare for a historic move to the new Stadium during the summer, Jupitus looks back at his time attending the Boleyn Ground and describes what makes it one of the most unique stadiums in Europe....
Phill, this has been an emotional time for everyone connected with the Club. What are your feelings on the big move away from the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "It is strange because you think about the size of the place and the physical closeness to games.
"Obviously the sport has changed immeasurably over the last 20 years and it is certainly the passing of an era. The move had to happen."
What are your standout memories from attending the Boleyn Ground?
PJ: "I used to work for a fanzine called 'Fortunes Always Hiding' and my nickname with the lads was part-time Porky as I used to wake up on a Saturday morning and decide if I want to go to the game and that is an age that has passed. "I lived in Bow and used to wake up on a Saturday and think do I want to go to the Pictures or go to the football. You could just turn up a the footie with a fiver and get in! "I miss that and standing on the old shelf on the left hand side of the North Bank. I used to stand up there by the Tea Bar and it was a great view of the goal.
"I know the away fans have been situated there so I hope they enjoy it as well! I used to really enjoy the North Bank and miss that a lot."
You have seen a number of entertaining players over the years. If you had to pick out one favourite who would it be and why?
PJ: "There was a time when I brought my daughter and Carlos Tevez was playing. I remember turning to her and saying this man is going to score a goal now! What he will do is kick the ball and it will curve in the air and into the corner of the net. "He scored the goal and she looked at me like I was a wizard! It was a one-off but the way we took to Tevez and he took to us said a lot about the Club.
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West Ham's £85million windfall
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United earned in excess of £85million from prize money payments during the 2015/16 season. West Ham's income of £85.765,168 was the eighth-highest figure amongst Premier League clubs. Although the Hammers received less than both Liverpool and Chelsea, despite finishing above both in the table, they earned around £1million more than sixth-placed Southampton.
West Ham's windfall consisted of £17.4million from merit money (the reward for finishing seventh in the table), £12.5million from facility fees (dependant on the number of live matches broadcast), £22million from domestic TV deals, £29.5million from overseas TV deals and finally, £4.5million from a pooled central commercial (ie sponsor) fund.
The highest earners were Arsenal, who earned £101million - that's £4million more than Manchester City (£97million) and Manchester United and £8million more than Premier League champions Leicester City, who earned the fifth-highest revenue.
In stark contrast, Aston Villa - who finished bottom of the league and were relegated to the Championship - received just shy of £67million, which Norwich (£67million) and Bournemouth (£71million) made up the bottom three.
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Hammers go Posh this summer
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Details of a second pre-season friendly have been announced for this July. A West Ham XI will travel to the ABAX stadium on Tuesday, 19 July to face League One outfit Peterborough United for the second successive year. The Posh are currently manager by former Hammer Grant McCann, who was named as the permanent successor to Graham Westley earlier this month. Slaven Bilic's current squad will be hoping to better last July's result when the two sides drew 3-3, with West Ham's goals coming from Mark Noble, Diafra Sakho and Martin Samuelsen. The match was also notable for a standing ovation given to former Hammer Jack Collison as he warmed up on the sidelines for Peterborough. Collison has since retired from the game due to his injuries. Earlier today it was confirmed that West Ham would also be visiting fellow League One side Southend United this July. The current confirmed pre-season schedule is as follows.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
19 July: Peterborough Utd (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
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New pre-season fixture confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
A West Ham United XI will face Southend United at Roots Hall on Saturday, 23 July. The Hammers will make the almost annual trip down the A13 to face the Shrimpers in a pre-season friendly this summer, according to the League One club. Last season DImitri Payet made his West Ham debut against the Shrimpers, netting twice and providing an assist as the Hammers ran out 3-2 winners.
2016/17 pre-season, so far
5 July: Seattle Sounders (a)
12 July: Carlonia RailHawks (a)
23 July: Southend Utd (a)
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Reports: West Ham launch fresh Tore bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are reported to have made a fresh offer for Besiktas winger Gokhan Tore. A number of sources are this morning running with news of talks between the two parties to determine a fee for the 24-year-old, who Hammers boss Slaven Bilic rates highly from his time in Turkey. West Ham were reported to have had a €10million offer for Tore rejected last January. And just last month, Besiktas vice-president Ahmet Nur Cebi admitted that his club would be prepared to allow the German-born forward to leave the club - but not for less than €30million. "We do not intend to sell anyone at the moment," said Cebi, speaking at the time. "But if they offer €30million (circa £24million) for a player we paid €5million for, we would have to think about it."
Bilic has previously gone on record with his admiration for Tore's talent. Speaking to Socrates magazine last October, he revaled that he had tried to make the player one of his first captures when arriving at the Boleyn Ground. "Gokhan is a legend," said Bilic. "He is a top guy and a great player. Of course I would love to have him in the team [at West Ham]. I tried to sign him at the start of the season, but it was not the right time."
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West Ham in talks to sign Gokhan Tore, according to Sky sources
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 24/05/16 12:00pm
SSN
West Ham are in advanced talks to sign winger Gokhan Tore from Besiktas, according to Sky sources. Negotiations are ongoing for the 24-year-old, with the Turkish club believed to value their player at £12m. The Hammers are looking to bolster their squad ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium and a Europa League campaign and have already agreed a deal to bring Norway midfielder Havard Nordtveit to the club when the transfer window opens. But manager Slaven Bilic wants further reinforcements to build on his promising first season at the club, although a £31m bid for Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette and a £25m bid for Bournemouth pair Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie have failed in recent weeks. Tore, who spent two years at Chelsea as a youth player after being found by Frank Arnesen while playing for Bayer Leverkusen, signed a five-year deal at Besiktas in 2014 after a £3m move from Rubin Kazan. He has won 26 caps for Turkey and has been named in the 31-man provisional squad for Euro 2016.
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Hammers target hopes look dead in water
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Regular speculation that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a West Ham target looks dead in the water this morning with Jose Mourinho reportedly ready to take over the reins at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Paris St-Germain and United are set to hand him a one-year, £250,000-a-week contract. The Swedish superstar was seen as an ideal candidate to join the Olympic Stadium-bound Hammers but the free signing now looks a strong favourite to join the Mourinho OT regime. The pair know each other well and sources strongly tip a year's contract for the 34 year old under his former boss who also has to look at the situation involving Reece Oxford. It has been strongly reported that United were plotting a £10 million move under sacked Louis van Gaal although Hammers insiders claim he is going nowhere. However Mourinho will be looking at any proposed business on the United agenda and take a view so nothing can be ruled out at this stage.
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French striker targets valued at €90m
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Lyon president has told French newspaper Le Progres that ideally they want to keep hold of Alexandre-Lacazette but he has not categorically ruled out a sale of the 24 year old this summer. It has now been claimed that the Ligue 1 outfit have slapped on an asking price of 50million euros [£38.7m] and are not prepared to lower their valuation.
It remains to be seen if the Hammers would ever match Lyon's demands but they may have to move quickly as a number of clubs have been linked with Lacazette in recent weeks, including PSG, Spurs and Atletico Madrid.
LacazMeanwhile, Olympique de Marseille is said to value their prized striker, Michy Batshuayi at €40million (£31m) mostly due to a sell-on clause in his contract.
According to Mercato 365, Spurs sent scouts were in attendance at the Stade de France on Saturday evening as Marseille lost 4-2 to Paris Saint-Germain in the Coupe de France final. The 22-year-old has scored 24 goals and supplied 10 assists in 51 matches in all competitions this season, including 17 goals and nine assists from 36 Ligue 1 encounters.
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Vardy release bait clause
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Jamie Vardy is available to Champions League clubs although his personal demands are likely to remain out of West Ham's reach. The 29 year old is understood to have a £25 million release trigger in his contract and the Irons are ready to pay the fee. Any talking cannot take place until after the transfer window opens but it is well known that the club has had him on the radar but with one more bumper deal in prospect the Hammers are set to be priced out of that market. We understand that a minimum £100k a week plus first team appearance bonuses would be involved and that could rise to as high as £125k plus. Vardy has regularly pledged loyalty to the Foxes but the fact he can be prised away for a cut price fee will alert Premier League rivals. Vardy's release clause is reported as having been inserted into the contract he signed in February, and was also apparently extensively scouted by Manchester City during his 24-goal Premier League campaign.
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Boleyn Pub SOS
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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The famous Boleyn pub, on the corner of Green Street and Barking Road is preparing for life after after the Boleyn Ground is demolished by offering a membership scheme for West Ham supporters. They are asking their football regulars to pay £120 annual membership to stop the place being closed down. The membership fee will fund private coaches to the former Olympic stadium on home match days but members will also receive a discount at the bar. The posters in the windows read like an SOS saying : "As you all know West Ham United are moving to the Olympic Stadium, Stratford for the 2016/2017 season. We want to keep the spirit of the The Boleyn Pub going, so we are offering an annual membership that will provide transport from the Boleyn to Stratford for every home game. You will also receive bar discounts on every home and away games. To find out more or to sign up for your membership call us or speak to one of our bar staff. Call us on 0208472 2182?
The Black Lion in Plaistow, another West Ham pub, is also looking at transporting fans to Stratford.
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Michail Antonio is not for Sale
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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We know the silly season is now in full swing with the ludicrous suggestion linking Michail Antonio with newly promoted Middlesbrough today. The transfer gossip section of the London evening standard writes: "Even newly promoted teams will have a significant amount of bargaining power and Middlesbrough, who are set to compete in the top tier next term, have reportedly identified West Ham's Michail Antonio as a key target. The versatile midfielder, who can also play at right-back, proved to be a slow burner for Slaven Bilic's side but enjoyed a stellar second half of the season.The Hammers are not thought to be keen to sell while Boro are willing to offer up to £8 million for the 26-year-old." The suggestion that West Ham would entertain bids for Antonio is just plain daft in the first place, never mind the cheap £8m price tag and why Michail would consider leaving West Ham to join Middlesbrough. They really haven't thought this one through very well. I think we can safety put this one to bed and not worry about it too much.
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Hammers play cards close to chest on winger
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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West Ham were this morning reported to be in advanced talks with Beiktas flying winger Gokhan Tore. But although they have admitted to us in the past he is a potential target the club were refusing to put anything on the record when ClaretandHugh contacted them a few minutes ago That, however, is sometimes the best indicator that a deal may indeed be on the cards. Slaven Bilic has called for a clampdown on transfer leaks within the club but both the morning newspapers and Sky are claiming the deal is close. Our senior source said simply: "No comment – we are running with for 25 players." The player however is a huge Bilic favourite and the manager wanted to sign him at the stat of his Hammers reign last summer. We were indeed told a couple of weeks ago that Tore was a target alhough a striker wasthe bigger priority and that the club would only move in on the Turk sooner if they failed with bids in that area.
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Juventus match restricted to 54,000
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Demand for Juventus friendly match on Sunday 7th August continues to grow with the club are confident that they will sell out all 54,000 tickets by the end of this week. A source close to the ticket office told Claret and Hugh at lunch time "We expect a sell out most likely by the end of the week. It has been incredible sales figures" The pre season friendly against Werder Bremen on 2nd August last year managed just 9,919 supporters despite being the final season at the Boleyn Ground. When Claret and Hugh checked the ticket premium rate hotline at 12 noon there were 11 people in the queue with an average wait time of 24 minutes. The Juventus sell out will limited to 54,000 seats rather than the increased 60,000 capacity of the converted stadium. Our source told us "At present the stadium is part of the initial test stage which is set to 54,000 for safety certificate reasons, therefore it allows a preview in advance of the first 60,000 game a week later "
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Hammers linked with French left back
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 24, 2016 in News, Whispers
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Reports in the Daily Mail suggest West Ham have made enquiries for Lille left back Djibril Sidibe. Watford, Arsenal , Everton and Lyon are also reported to have made enquiries for the 23-year-old, who can also play as a right back. Sidibe is valued at 15 million euros (£11.5m) by his club, who finished the 2015-16 season in fifth place in Ligue 1. Everton reportedly had a £10million bid for Lille left-back rejected this week while Lyon and Watford have both scouted the defender. Arsenal are said to be willing to make a move if the out-of-favour Kieran Gibbs leaves the club. Sidibé can play as a full back on the right or left, but can also be utilized in the midfield in a defensive position. He began his career at his hometown club Troyes in 2000 at the age of eight. Sidibé made his professional debut on 17 September 2010 in a French league match against Grenoble. After helping earn Troyes promotion to Ligue 1, the then 19-year-old signed for Lille in July 2012, as cover for Mathieu Debuchy. Sidibé made his debut for Lille on 25 August 2012 against Nice.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, May 24
Daily WHUFC News - 24th May 2016
Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen could not help Bradford City reach the League One play-off final on Friday as the Bantams drew 1-1 with Millwall at the New Den in the midfielder's final game on loan. The League One side went into the fixture hoping to overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg at Valley Parade but the task was made almost impossible when Lee Gregory bagged for the Lions after 33 minutes. Jamie Proctor's strike a minute before the break gave Phil Parkinson's men hope but the hosts held on to their two-goal advantage and progressed to the final where they will face Barnsley. Cullen was substituted at half time while fellow loan partner Reece Burke was an unused substitute following his recovery from an injury problem. The former has featured 17 times on loan in Yorkshire this season, impressing in his central midfield role, while Burke played 36 times for the club, winning a number of awards at the end of the season including the Player of the Year accolade. The pair have returned to West Ham United, along with a number of other players on loan elsewhere this season.
Jaanai Gordon, however, featured for Sligo Rovers on Saturday in their 3-0 FAI Cup win against Cabinteely.
Kieran Sadlier notched either side of a Jimmy Keohane strike to send Rovers through to the fourth round of the competition.
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Scully signs professional terms with Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Republic of Ireland U17 international Anthony Scully has signed a new long term contract with the Club. The creative midfielder has capped off an impressive campaign by putting pen to paper on a new deal that will see him turn professional. Having committed his future to the Hammers, a delighted Scully said: "It's a great feeling. It's a feeling every young boy dreams of, to be a professional footballer. Now that I've earned my first one, the hard work continues to try and earn more with West Ham. "It's a very proud moment for myself and my family. I've put a lot of hard work into getting to where I am today and my family have supported me from the beginning. "This season was a mixture of highs and lows, it didn't start off the best as I unfortunately picked up an injury in pre-season that kept me out until January. I managed to get back playing in the U18s, scoring some goals and also made a few appearances for the U21s."
Having overcome a frustrating opening to this season, his recent performances for the Hammers saw Scully earn a call up into the Irish international set up. He continued: "Captaining Ireland in the U17 Euros was a special moment also for me and my family as it has been a dream of mine. "This week has also been a good one for me officially signing my first professional contract with West Ham and being selected for the Republic of Ireland U19."
With this campaign hosting a range of important milestones for the youngster, the 17-year-old is looking ahead to further achievements in the near future. He finished by saying: "It's a great time for all who are a part of West Ham United. I remember my first ever time watching West Ham with my Dad; Carlos Tevez scored a free kick and the atmosphere was unbelievable.
"I was at the new stadium a while back and it looks amazing, I'm looking forward to playing in it one day. "I am looking to constantly improve and come back to pre-season feeling good. I'm looking to push into the U21s team, play regularly for them hopefully leading to some opportunities with the first team."
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Payet - It has been a magnificent first year
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet has had a year to remember at West Ham United following his move to the east London Club last summer and cannot believe the strong relationship he has forged with the Hammers supporters. The French star became a cult hero with the Hammers fans following his outstanding displays which saw him pick up FIVE trophies at the end of the season awards. Few could forget his unstoppable free-kicks which saw him become one of the best set-piece specialist takers in the world. Payet netted 12 goals, created 12 assists and was voted into the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
So what goal stood out for Payet and how much did he enjoy scoring at the Boleyn Ground?
Payet said: "Of course there are the two free-kicks at Old Trafford and at home to Crystal Palace, but the most important one came away to Everton because it was the winning goal in our comeback. "It has been a magnificent first year and looking back at the results I've had for club and country it has been really fantastic and also these individual accolades are also lovely to receive. "I would also like to thank all my team-mates, the staff here, the coaching staff, the medical staff were fantastic when I was injured and of course the fans, there's a lot of love there and they've really encouraged me and helped me to settle in. "Of course it is fantastic to receive recognition from fellow players and, on top of that, it's in the hardest league in the world so it is a really great feeling and I feel very honoured. "Even though it is a personal award I still want to share it with my team-mates because the fact that I have won it is down to their help and the fact that they have had confidence in me."
Payet is now preparing with the France squad for the European Championship Finals which get underway on June 10 and will be hoping to have a similar impact for his country when they prepare to face Romania, Switzerland and Albania.
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Shephard - It was an extraordinary experience
WHUFC.com
TV presenter and lifelong Hammers fan Ben Shephard admits he will never forget presenting the closing ceremony at the Boleyn Ground and says it is the greatest job he will ever be given.
Shephard was honoured to lead the unforgettable proceedings following the memorable victory over Manchester United.
The Good Morning Britain presenter was joined by over 30,000 fans and millions watching worldwide on television as the Club enjoyed a unique event that brought an end to 112 years of West Ham in Upton Park.
Following a spectacular pyrotechnic and light show, Shephard was joined on the pitch by a number of former players who had won the prestigious Hammer of the Year award, while few could forget the final segment when the Club's greatest son Bobby Moore returned to walk down the tunnel and turned out the Boleyn Ground lights one final time.
Having been part of many memorable experiences on television, Shephard says nothing will compare to him being part of a historic occasion at his beloved Club and says he will always look back with great pride and satisfaction.
Shephard said: "I kept having to pinch myself that I was out there. I could never have imagined that I would be leading the celebrations as a West Ham fan who used to come over and stand behind the goal when I was a youngster.
"It was an extraordinary experience and a real privilege. It was one of the greatest jobs I will ever be given and will be something I talk about with my kids and friends for many years to come.
"I keep getting stopped now and people telling me about the event. Someone was on holiday in the Bahamas watching, while another was in America. It was an amazing send-off and a fantastic farewell.
"The one thing that is placating my emotions of leaving the Boleyn Ground is that we are moving to the new Stadium, and I was lucky enough to work there during the Olympics and went to the Rugby World Cup. It is an extraordinary venue and was blown away by it."
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The best season of my life
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd May 2016
By: James Gavin
Although we ended up 7th, a lot of people - including me - will be disappointed by that. But this has been an amazing season to be a West Ham fan for so many reasons.
I'm 18, so West Ham haven't been the most successful club I could have supported. But it's in me, and I love it.
Previously, my favourite season was our most recent Championship season. Winning week in, week out, chanting "we are top of the league" and going up at Wembley are such happy memories. This season tops all of that for many reasons.
Firstly, and the most important reason for me, is our new style of football. When our team has the ball, I'm excited.
Whether it be Payet or Lanzini using their skill and trickery to beat multiple players; Noble and Kouyate dictating the game with solid defence and ability to turn it into an attack; even Antonio (who must run on petrol) and Cresswell dominating the flanks with exciting wing play.
And our new passing style is just such a joy to watch, and has allowed me to understand what the real 'West Ham way' is all about.
Attitude of the team is also another key factor in our success this season. For many years we haven't exactly been the most motivated team, comebacks were few and fair between and maintaining a lead was always nervy (this still needs a bit of work).
Under Avram Grant, there was the classic scenario where we would happen to be leading 1- 0 at half time, and you could just picture his worried face transcending onto the players and us ending up losing 3-1.
Or under Big Sam (who I am a fan of due to the stability he brought); when we went 2-0 down you just knew our team wasn't capable of scoring three goals. This has all changed.
No longer do I give up on a game until it is officially over, because with this group of players and their mindset they can turn anything around. The perfect example would be at Everton (who we always do badly against) where we turned a 2 0 deficit away from home into a 3 2 win. Amazing!
The Avram days are over as well and I think our victory at home against Chelsea is a great example of this. Previously, if Chelsea equalised, we would never have been able to suddenly rally and turn the match into three points. But we did, and that is partly down to our team's great self belief.
Going from setting up for one point against any big team, to having a pop at three, has been really good fun and this has been a great season for memorable wins.
When we went to Stamford Bridge a couple of years ago, and the '19th century football' argument arose (which was very fun to wind Chelsea fans up about) it showed the type of team we were. We worked dammed hard for a point and there wasn't much fun in that.
There were times when a team like Man City could literally pass the ball through our defence, with our players unsure as to whose job it was to stop it this time. We'd concede, and that would be game over. That wasn't fun.
Away wins at Liverpool, Arsenal and Man City were all brilliant and show what a great season we have had. We went against these teams with a solid(ish) defence and played pacy, counter-attacking football. It paid off and was great for all of us to watch.
We have shown this season that we can compete against any team, and we are not scared of who they are. One of the games I really like to look back on was our 2-2 draw at home to Man City.
This was just one of the most exciting games of football I've ever witnessed. It was such a great end-to-end game. It looked like a clash of two quality teams and that's what we almost are now - a quality team!
By no means are we perfect though, finishing 7th has showed this. We need to tighten up our defence and try to find that elusive, injury-free, 20-goal-a-season striker. But we have come such a long way this season.
With a successful transfer window we could improve even more. However, by improving we may only achieve the same or even a lower league position as both Chelsea and Liverpool, who finished below us this season, should improve.
In summary, we should all be pleased with the great season we have had. A few more "ifs" and "maybes" in our favour and we might have qualified for the Champions League!
Thanks to Manchester United we can now look forward to European football again next season. That's the icing on the cake for a great season - hopefully the first of many under Slaven Bilic.
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West Ham seeded for Europa draw
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be one of 29 seeded teams to take part in the third qualifying round of the Europa League later this summer.
United's co-efficient rating* of 16.256 is the 13th highest of the 48 clubs who have thus far secured qualification for next season's Europa League and ensures Slaven Bilic's team will be one of the seeded clubs to enter the third preliminary stage.
So far, 25 of the 29 possible opponents West Ham could face in the third qualifying round (which takes place on 28 July/4 Aug) have been determined; they are as follows:
Neftchi Baku (Azb); AEK Larnaca (Cyp), FC Oleksandriya (Ukr), AIK Stockholm (Swe): Slovan Bratislava (Slv); FC Luzern (Sui); Videoton Fehérvár (Hun); FK Aktobe (Kaz); Vojvodina Novi Sad (Srb); Istanbul Basaksehir (Tur); Strømsgodset IF (Now); Shakhtior Saligorsk (Bel); Spartak Trnava (Slv); Heracles Almelo (Hol); Pandurii Târgu Jiu (Rom); Osmanlispor (Tur); Slavia Praha (Cze); IFK Göteborg (Swe); DVSC Debrecen (Hun); Hearts FC (Sco); FK Ventspils (Lat); Admira Wacker (Aus); BK Häcken (Swe); EL3 (Gre); Viitorul Constanta (Rom)
Should the Hammers progress to the next (play-off) round - the final stage before the group phase - it is unlikely however that they will continue to be seeded. A total of 44 teams will enter this stage, which contains 22 seeded teams and 22 non-seeded teams.
At present, and assuming all seeded teams qualify from the third qualifying round, West Ham will only be the 16th-highest-ranked club. In addition to the clubs that will have qualified for the play-off round via the previous (third) qualifying round, 15 beaten clubs from Champions League qualification enter the reckoning.
And should the Hammers win the play-off round's two-legged tie, which take place on 18/25 August, they will enter the Europa League group phase which comprises of 48 teams split into 12 groups.
Unfortunately West Ham's low coefficient would almost certainly ensure they will feature in Pot 4 of the draw, the lowest seeds for the group draw. The six group matches will take place on Thursday evenings between 15 September and 8 December.
The last 32 phase - consisting of the 12 winners from the group stage, 12 runners-up and the eight teams to finish third in their Champions League groups - takes place on 16/23 February, whilst the winners of these 16 ties enter the last 16 (9/16 March).
The quarter finals will be played on 13/20 April, the semi finals (also two-legged) take place on 4/11 May with the final - being held next season at the Friends Arena in Stockholm - scheduled for 24 May.
In all, West Ham would play 19 matches were they to reach next May's final.
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L'OM slap €40million price tag on West Ham target Batshuayi
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Marseille will refuse to sell West Ham target Michy Batshuayi for less than €40million due to a sell-on clause in his contract. The financially-troubled Ligue 1 club have thus far resisted all approaches for the 22-year-old Belgian striker, who moved to L'OM from Standard Liege in 2014. And that's largely due to a whopping 35 per cent sell-on clause in his contract that entitles the Belgian club to more than a third of any profit gained by his sale. Marseille paid circa £4.5million for Batshuayi two years ago this summer, since when he scored 26 goals in 62 appearances in the French top flight. But thus far no club has come close to meeting L'OM's valuation of the striker - despite interest from clubs including Manchester City, Juventus and Inter, as well as the Hammers.
Another player Marseille may be willing to part company with in order to balance the books is full back and former French youth international Benjamin Mendy. The 21-year-old would be available for a fee in the region of £15million; in addition to West Ham, Premier League champions Leicester City are also reported to be monitoring his situation.
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Hammers miss out on Ibrahimovic
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham look certain to miss out on signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic, after it was revealed that the Swedish international was poised to join Manchester United. THe chances of West Ham securing the signature of one of the world's most instantly-recognisable footballers were always slim, at best - especially once it was revealed that the 34-year-old was seeking in excess of £200,000 per week wages. And rumours emerging this afternoon suggest that the 6'5" striker, who has featured previously for Juventus, Barcelona, Inter and PSG will be coming to the Premier League this summer - but to Old Trafford, rather than the Olympic Stadium. Ibrahimovic is reported to be set to sign a one or two-year deal with Manchester United, before moving to the MLS thereafter. The veteran goalscorer has made 112 appearances for Sweden in an international career stretching back 15 years. The Hammers were first linked with a move for Ibra back in 2002, when he was at Ajax.
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Ogbonna named in preliminary Italian Euro squad
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United central defender Angelo Ogbonna has been included in Italy's provisional 30-man squad for this summer's European Championships. The 28-year-old, who joined West Ham last summer has been included in Antonio Conte's squad for the tournament which is being staged in France between 10 June and 10 July. Ogbonna is one of only two Italians based in the Premier League to be included in COnte's selection; the other being Southampton striker Graziano Pelle. Ogbonna will join fellow Hammers Dimitri Payet (France), James Collins (Wales) and Darren Randolph (Ireland) at the tournament.
Provisional Italian squad
Goalkeepers: Federico Marchetti, Antonio Mirante, Marco Sportiello.
Defenders: Francesco Acerbi, Davide Astori, Leonardo Bonucci, Armando Izzo, Angelo Ogbonna, Lorenzo Tonelli.
Midfielders: Marco Benassi, Federico Bernardeschi, Antonio Candreva, Danilo Cataldi, Daniele De Rossi, Lorenzo De Silvestri, Stephan El Shaarawy, Alessandro Florenzi, Emanuele Giaccherini, Jorginho, Marco Parolo, Roberto Soriano, Davide Zappacosta.
Forwards: Fabio Borini, Eder, Ciro Immobile, Lorenzo Insigne, Leonardo Pavoletti, Graziano Pelle.
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Europa fixtures are not a problem
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
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West Ham will hear who their Europa League opponents are on the 15th July and there is a fifty percent chance they will be drawn away from home in the first leg which would not cause a fixture problem as the stadium will be converted from Athletics mode by the 1st August.
The Europa League first leg is scheduled to be played on 28th July with second leg on the 4th August.
Should the Hammers be unlucky and drawn at home for the first leg they will just ask UEFA and the opposing team to switch legs. This should be a simple process and is not without precedence. Last season, West Ham were drawn away in Andorra against FC Lusitans but both sides agreed to swap the legs and the first leg was instead played at the Boleyn Ground on Thursday 2nd July with the away leg on Thursday 9th July.
Other commentators have mentioned the Juventus friendly 7th August could be rescheduled but there is little room to reschedule with the Premier League starting on Saturday 13th August and quite frankly no reason to.
The Juventus friendly will probably see just a cameo appearance from many of the senior players with a long season ahead. The likes of Reece Oxford, Reece Burke, Darren Randolph, Havard Nordtveit and Toni Martínez will likely get a start along with many of the new signings who won't necessary go straight into the first team having a significant role.
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Andy Carroll helps the homeless
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
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West Ham striker Andy Carroll pulled over on his boys holiday road trip in Texas, USA to give a homeless man by the side of the road drinks, food and towels. A video posted on the 27 year old's personal social media account shows the lads laughing as they hand over over bottles of water, cans of Sprite, Pringles and beach towels before handing over their plastic cool box to a homeless person. The lads have visited Houston, Galveston and Austin in the state of Texas so far dodging a Tornado in Galveston when an emergency warning was sent out. The lads saw the funny side and took cover in a bath to wait out the storm.
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Gold responds to OS first game critics
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
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West Ham Chairman, David Gold has been quick to answer critics disappointed that the Juventus friendly will no longer be the first game at the Olympic Stadium. Gold speaking on twitter said "We made clear that the date for the opening fixture might change dependent on our qualification for Europe. dg"
When one supporter suggested many fans will return tickets for the Juvnetus friendly but Gold replied: "I would be surprised if a supporter of West Ham would want to return his ticket for the game against Juventus. dg"
One Hammers fan called Paul Turner messaged Gold to say: "Hearing we can't play out first games at "home" because it will still be in athletics mode..If only we owned our own ground."
Gold quickly responded "Paul there are very few clubs that own their own grounds most are owned by there banks. dg"
Paul responded "David my house still has a mortgage on it .. But the bank doesn't tell me when I can use the house .." for which Gold replied: "True but if you don't make the payments they will. dg"
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Hammers linked with Colombian striker
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
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According to Mercato 365, AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca has been added to West Ham's extended list of striker transfer targets this summer. He's scored 17 times in the league this season and added two assists but could be allowed to leave AC Milan in the summer and is valued at 30 million Euros (£23m). According to WhoScored.com, he's scored those goals despite managing only 1.9 shots per game. Squawka.com clocks his shooting accuracy at an excellent 67 percent—and it was as high as 70 percent in late February. The Colombia striker has been disappointed with the club's Italian's ability to compete for a Champions League place. The 29 year old has attracted interested from Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United as well as a host of European sides. Bacca has smashed 20 goals for AC Milan this season in all competitions having arrived from Sevilla last summer, and that's now 97 league goals in the last four seasons, across spells with Belgian side Club Brugge, La Liga's Sevilla and now AC Milan.
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West Ham end of season review: Slaven Bilic leads Hammers to brilliant season as they wave goodbye to Upton Park
West Ham finished seventh in Premier League following excellent season
Popular Slaven Bilic hit the ground running as manager with good results
Dimitri Payet quickly became the club's talisman and a fan hero
By MATT BARLOW FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:49, 23 May 2016 | UPDATED: 11:49, 23 May 2016
Now that the curtain has fallen on the domestic season, it's time to reflect on the highs and lows, heroes and and villains, and what the future may hold.
As part of our end-of-season guides to every team in the Premier League, Sportsmail's MATT BARLOW looks back at West Ham's best season in years...
In a nutshell, how was the season?
Brilliant beyond expectations. The best top-flight points total for 30 years, memorable away wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City and a perfect platform for the Olympic Stadium move. The feeble surrender to Romania's Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League was soon forgotten.
Who was the shining light?
Dmitri Payet: it did not take long for his twinkling toes and dazzling free-kick goals to land him the mantle as the darling of the fans at Upton Park. His brilliant form also secured a return to the France team and a new £125,000 a year contract until 2021, making him the best-paid West Ham player of all time.
Who failed to live up to expectations?
Alex Song: Unable to reproduce the form of his first season on loan from Barcelona and nagged by injuries. Bilic soon decided the midfield balance was better off with Cheikhou Kouyate and the wonderfully consistent Mark Noble in the centre and Song was forgotten.
How did the manager get on?
Better than anyone envisaged, considering he was far from the first choice. Bilic started with a win at Arsenal and his team produced a stirring comeback to beat Manchester United in the final home game. In between he said the right things, produced exciting football and generated the atmosphere around the club.
What was the best moment?
Winston Reid's goal to complete a stirring comeback and clinch a 3-2 win against Manchester United on an emotional final night at Upton Park. (Notwithstanding the mindless bottle attack by some fans on the United team bus, of course.)
And the worst?
Heavy defeat at home to Swansea in the penultimate home game of the season. Without this, West Ham would have gone into the final day of the season with a chance of finishing fourth.
Reasons to be cheerful for next season?
A new dawn at the Olympic Stadium with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, an exciting team and a charismatic manager.
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West Ham will take the Europa League seriously, insists chairman David Gold
West Ham qualified for Europe thanks to Manchester United's FA Cup win
Hammers had missed out after finishing seventh in the Premier League
But United's victory over Crystal Palace secured a Europa League spot
By IAN RODRICKS, REUTERS
PUBLISHED: 11:28, 23 May 2016 | UPDATED: 11:28, 23 May 2016
West Ham United will not take Europa League lightly next season after being gifted a spot in the competition by Manchester United's FA Cup triumph, joint chairman David Gold has said.
West Ham missed out on qualifying for Europe after finishing seventh in the Premier League but United's victory over Crystal Palace at Wembley on Saturday secured a Europa League spot for Slaven Bilic's men for second successive year. 'It was an exciting and thrilling end to the final and what a goal from (Jesse) Lingard to win the game,' Gold told the club's website. 'There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left celebrating as we are back in Europe. 'As we prepare for the big move into the new stadium this is another exciting challenge for the football club.' West Ham lost to Romania's Astra Giurgiu in the third qualifying round in Europe's second tier competition last season but Gold insisted the club were keen to add to their trophy haul as they move into a new era at London's Olympic Stadium. 'We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it,' Gold added.
'It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played in the early rounds last summer.'
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Josh Cullen could not help Bradford City reach the League One play-off final on Friday as the Bantams drew 1-1 with Millwall at the New Den in the midfielder's final game on loan. The League One side went into the fixture hoping to overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg at Valley Parade but the task was made almost impossible when Lee Gregory bagged for the Lions after 33 minutes. Jamie Proctor's strike a minute before the break gave Phil Parkinson's men hope but the hosts held on to their two-goal advantage and progressed to the final where they will face Barnsley. Cullen was substituted at half time while fellow loan partner Reece Burke was an unused substitute following his recovery from an injury problem. The former has featured 17 times on loan in Yorkshire this season, impressing in his central midfield role, while Burke played 36 times for the club, winning a number of awards at the end of the season including the Player of the Year accolade. The pair have returned to West Ham United, along with a number of other players on loan elsewhere this season.
Jaanai Gordon, however, featured for Sligo Rovers on Saturday in their 3-0 FAI Cup win against Cabinteely.
Kieran Sadlier notched either side of a Jimmy Keohane strike to send Rovers through to the fourth round of the competition.
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Scully signs professional terms with Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce that Republic of Ireland U17 international Anthony Scully has signed a new long term contract with the Club. The creative midfielder has capped off an impressive campaign by putting pen to paper on a new deal that will see him turn professional. Having committed his future to the Hammers, a delighted Scully said: "It's a great feeling. It's a feeling every young boy dreams of, to be a professional footballer. Now that I've earned my first one, the hard work continues to try and earn more with West Ham. "It's a very proud moment for myself and my family. I've put a lot of hard work into getting to where I am today and my family have supported me from the beginning. "This season was a mixture of highs and lows, it didn't start off the best as I unfortunately picked up an injury in pre-season that kept me out until January. I managed to get back playing in the U18s, scoring some goals and also made a few appearances for the U21s."
Having overcome a frustrating opening to this season, his recent performances for the Hammers saw Scully earn a call up into the Irish international set up. He continued: "Captaining Ireland in the U17 Euros was a special moment also for me and my family as it has been a dream of mine. "This week has also been a good one for me officially signing my first professional contract with West Ham and being selected for the Republic of Ireland U19."
With this campaign hosting a range of important milestones for the youngster, the 17-year-old is looking ahead to further achievements in the near future. He finished by saying: "It's a great time for all who are a part of West Ham United. I remember my first ever time watching West Ham with my Dad; Carlos Tevez scored a free kick and the atmosphere was unbelievable.
"I was at the new stadium a while back and it looks amazing, I'm looking forward to playing in it one day. "I am looking to constantly improve and come back to pre-season feeling good. I'm looking to push into the U21s team, play regularly for them hopefully leading to some opportunities with the first team."
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Payet - It has been a magnificent first year
WHUFC.com
Dimitri Payet has had a year to remember at West Ham United following his move to the east London Club last summer and cannot believe the strong relationship he has forged with the Hammers supporters. The French star became a cult hero with the Hammers fans following his outstanding displays which saw him pick up FIVE trophies at the end of the season awards. Few could forget his unstoppable free-kicks which saw him become one of the best set-piece specialist takers in the world. Payet netted 12 goals, created 12 assists and was voted into the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
So what goal stood out for Payet and how much did he enjoy scoring at the Boleyn Ground?
Payet said: "Of course there are the two free-kicks at Old Trafford and at home to Crystal Palace, but the most important one came away to Everton because it was the winning goal in our comeback. "It has been a magnificent first year and looking back at the results I've had for club and country it has been really fantastic and also these individual accolades are also lovely to receive. "I would also like to thank all my team-mates, the staff here, the coaching staff, the medical staff were fantastic when I was injured and of course the fans, there's a lot of love there and they've really encouraged me and helped me to settle in. "Of course it is fantastic to receive recognition from fellow players and, on top of that, it's in the hardest league in the world so it is a really great feeling and I feel very honoured. "Even though it is a personal award I still want to share it with my team-mates because the fact that I have won it is down to their help and the fact that they have had confidence in me."
Payet is now preparing with the France squad for the European Championship Finals which get underway on June 10 and will be hoping to have a similar impact for his country when they prepare to face Romania, Switzerland and Albania.
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Shephard - It was an extraordinary experience
WHUFC.com
TV presenter and lifelong Hammers fan Ben Shephard admits he will never forget presenting the closing ceremony at the Boleyn Ground and says it is the greatest job he will ever be given.
Shephard was honoured to lead the unforgettable proceedings following the memorable victory over Manchester United.
The Good Morning Britain presenter was joined by over 30,000 fans and millions watching worldwide on television as the Club enjoyed a unique event that brought an end to 112 years of West Ham in Upton Park.
Following a spectacular pyrotechnic and light show, Shephard was joined on the pitch by a number of former players who had won the prestigious Hammer of the Year award, while few could forget the final segment when the Club's greatest son Bobby Moore returned to walk down the tunnel and turned out the Boleyn Ground lights one final time.
Having been part of many memorable experiences on television, Shephard says nothing will compare to him being part of a historic occasion at his beloved Club and says he will always look back with great pride and satisfaction.
Shephard said: "I kept having to pinch myself that I was out there. I could never have imagined that I would be leading the celebrations as a West Ham fan who used to come over and stand behind the goal when I was a youngster.
"It was an extraordinary experience and a real privilege. It was one of the greatest jobs I will ever be given and will be something I talk about with my kids and friends for many years to come.
"I keep getting stopped now and people telling me about the event. Someone was on holiday in the Bahamas watching, while another was in America. It was an amazing send-off and a fantastic farewell.
"The one thing that is placating my emotions of leaving the Boleyn Ground is that we are moving to the new Stadium, and I was lucky enough to work there during the Olympics and went to the Rugby World Cup. It is an extraordinary venue and was blown away by it."
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The best season of my life
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd May 2016
By: James Gavin
Although we ended up 7th, a lot of people - including me - will be disappointed by that. But this has been an amazing season to be a West Ham fan for so many reasons.
I'm 18, so West Ham haven't been the most successful club I could have supported. But it's in me, and I love it.
Previously, my favourite season was our most recent Championship season. Winning week in, week out, chanting "we are top of the league" and going up at Wembley are such happy memories. This season tops all of that for many reasons.
Firstly, and the most important reason for me, is our new style of football. When our team has the ball, I'm excited.
Whether it be Payet or Lanzini using their skill and trickery to beat multiple players; Noble and Kouyate dictating the game with solid defence and ability to turn it into an attack; even Antonio (who must run on petrol) and Cresswell dominating the flanks with exciting wing play.
And our new passing style is just such a joy to watch, and has allowed me to understand what the real 'West Ham way' is all about.
Attitude of the team is also another key factor in our success this season. For many years we haven't exactly been the most motivated team, comebacks were few and fair between and maintaining a lead was always nervy (this still needs a bit of work).
Under Avram Grant, there was the classic scenario where we would happen to be leading 1- 0 at half time, and you could just picture his worried face transcending onto the players and us ending up losing 3-1.
Or under Big Sam (who I am a fan of due to the stability he brought); when we went 2-0 down you just knew our team wasn't capable of scoring three goals. This has all changed.
No longer do I give up on a game until it is officially over, because with this group of players and their mindset they can turn anything around. The perfect example would be at Everton (who we always do badly against) where we turned a 2 0 deficit away from home into a 3 2 win. Amazing!
The Avram days are over as well and I think our victory at home against Chelsea is a great example of this. Previously, if Chelsea equalised, we would never have been able to suddenly rally and turn the match into three points. But we did, and that is partly down to our team's great self belief.
Going from setting up for one point against any big team, to having a pop at three, has been really good fun and this has been a great season for memorable wins.
When we went to Stamford Bridge a couple of years ago, and the '19th century football' argument arose (which was very fun to wind Chelsea fans up about) it showed the type of team we were. We worked dammed hard for a point and there wasn't much fun in that.
There were times when a team like Man City could literally pass the ball through our defence, with our players unsure as to whose job it was to stop it this time. We'd concede, and that would be game over. That wasn't fun.
Away wins at Liverpool, Arsenal and Man City were all brilliant and show what a great season we have had. We went against these teams with a solid(ish) defence and played pacy, counter-attacking football. It paid off and was great for all of us to watch.
We have shown this season that we can compete against any team, and we are not scared of who they are. One of the games I really like to look back on was our 2-2 draw at home to Man City.
This was just one of the most exciting games of football I've ever witnessed. It was such a great end-to-end game. It looked like a clash of two quality teams and that's what we almost are now - a quality team!
By no means are we perfect though, finishing 7th has showed this. We need to tighten up our defence and try to find that elusive, injury-free, 20-goal-a-season striker. But we have come such a long way this season.
With a successful transfer window we could improve even more. However, by improving we may only achieve the same or even a lower league position as both Chelsea and Liverpool, who finished below us this season, should improve.
In summary, we should all be pleased with the great season we have had. A few more "ifs" and "maybes" in our favour and we might have qualified for the Champions League!
Thanks to Manchester United we can now look forward to European football again next season. That's the icing on the cake for a great season - hopefully the first of many under Slaven Bilic.
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West Ham seeded for Europa draw
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be one of 29 seeded teams to take part in the third qualifying round of the Europa League later this summer.
United's co-efficient rating* of 16.256 is the 13th highest of the 48 clubs who have thus far secured qualification for next season's Europa League and ensures Slaven Bilic's team will be one of the seeded clubs to enter the third preliminary stage.
So far, 25 of the 29 possible opponents West Ham could face in the third qualifying round (which takes place on 28 July/4 Aug) have been determined; they are as follows:
Neftchi Baku (Azb); AEK Larnaca (Cyp), FC Oleksandriya (Ukr), AIK Stockholm (Swe): Slovan Bratislava (Slv); FC Luzern (Sui); Videoton Fehérvár (Hun); FK Aktobe (Kaz); Vojvodina Novi Sad (Srb); Istanbul Basaksehir (Tur); Strømsgodset IF (Now); Shakhtior Saligorsk (Bel); Spartak Trnava (Slv); Heracles Almelo (Hol); Pandurii Târgu Jiu (Rom); Osmanlispor (Tur); Slavia Praha (Cze); IFK Göteborg (Swe); DVSC Debrecen (Hun); Hearts FC (Sco); FK Ventspils (Lat); Admira Wacker (Aus); BK Häcken (Swe); EL3 (Gre); Viitorul Constanta (Rom)
Should the Hammers progress to the next (play-off) round - the final stage before the group phase - it is unlikely however that they will continue to be seeded. A total of 44 teams will enter this stage, which contains 22 seeded teams and 22 non-seeded teams.
At present, and assuming all seeded teams qualify from the third qualifying round, West Ham will only be the 16th-highest-ranked club. In addition to the clubs that will have qualified for the play-off round via the previous (third) qualifying round, 15 beaten clubs from Champions League qualification enter the reckoning.
And should the Hammers win the play-off round's two-legged tie, which take place on 18/25 August, they will enter the Europa League group phase which comprises of 48 teams split into 12 groups.
Unfortunately West Ham's low coefficient would almost certainly ensure they will feature in Pot 4 of the draw, the lowest seeds for the group draw. The six group matches will take place on Thursday evenings between 15 September and 8 December.
The last 32 phase - consisting of the 12 winners from the group stage, 12 runners-up and the eight teams to finish third in their Champions League groups - takes place on 16/23 February, whilst the winners of these 16 ties enter the last 16 (9/16 March).
The quarter finals will be played on 13/20 April, the semi finals (also two-legged) take place on 4/11 May with the final - being held next season at the Friends Arena in Stockholm - scheduled for 24 May.
In all, West Ham would play 19 matches were they to reach next May's final.
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L'OM slap €40million price tag on West Ham target Batshuayi
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
Marseille will refuse to sell West Ham target Michy Batshuayi for less than €40million due to a sell-on clause in his contract. The financially-troubled Ligue 1 club have thus far resisted all approaches for the 22-year-old Belgian striker, who moved to L'OM from Standard Liege in 2014. And that's largely due to a whopping 35 per cent sell-on clause in his contract that entitles the Belgian club to more than a third of any profit gained by his sale. Marseille paid circa £4.5million for Batshuayi two years ago this summer, since when he scored 26 goals in 62 appearances in the French top flight. But thus far no club has come close to meeting L'OM's valuation of the striker - despite interest from clubs including Manchester City, Juventus and Inter, as well as the Hammers.
Another player Marseille may be willing to part company with in order to balance the books is full back and former French youth international Benjamin Mendy. The 21-year-old would be available for a fee in the region of £15million; in addition to West Ham, Premier League champions Leicester City are also reported to be monitoring his situation.
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Hammers miss out on Ibrahimovic
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham look certain to miss out on signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic, after it was revealed that the Swedish international was poised to join Manchester United. THe chances of West Ham securing the signature of one of the world's most instantly-recognisable footballers were always slim, at best - especially once it was revealed that the 34-year-old was seeking in excess of £200,000 per week wages. And rumours emerging this afternoon suggest that the 6'5" striker, who has featured previously for Juventus, Barcelona, Inter and PSG will be coming to the Premier League this summer - but to Old Trafford, rather than the Olympic Stadium. Ibrahimovic is reported to be set to sign a one or two-year deal with Manchester United, before moving to the MLS thereafter. The veteran goalscorer has made 112 appearances for Sweden in an international career stretching back 15 years. The Hammers were first linked with a move for Ibra back in 2002, when he was at Ajax.
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Ogbonna named in preliminary Italian Euro squad
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd May 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United central defender Angelo Ogbonna has been included in Italy's provisional 30-man squad for this summer's European Championships. The 28-year-old, who joined West Ham last summer has been included in Antonio Conte's squad for the tournament which is being staged in France between 10 June and 10 July. Ogbonna is one of only two Italians based in the Premier League to be included in COnte's selection; the other being Southampton striker Graziano Pelle. Ogbonna will join fellow Hammers Dimitri Payet (France), James Collins (Wales) and Darren Randolph (Ireland) at the tournament.
Provisional Italian squad
Goalkeepers: Federico Marchetti, Antonio Mirante, Marco Sportiello.
Defenders: Francesco Acerbi, Davide Astori, Leonardo Bonucci, Armando Izzo, Angelo Ogbonna, Lorenzo Tonelli.
Midfielders: Marco Benassi, Federico Bernardeschi, Antonio Candreva, Danilo Cataldi, Daniele De Rossi, Lorenzo De Silvestri, Stephan El Shaarawy, Alessandro Florenzi, Emanuele Giaccherini, Jorginho, Marco Parolo, Roberto Soriano, Davide Zappacosta.
Forwards: Fabio Borini, Eder, Ciro Immobile, Lorenzo Insigne, Leonardo Pavoletti, Graziano Pelle.
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Europa fixtures are not a problem
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in Sean's Blogs, Whispers
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West Ham will hear who their Europa League opponents are on the 15th July and there is a fifty percent chance they will be drawn away from home in the first leg which would not cause a fixture problem as the stadium will be converted from Athletics mode by the 1st August.
The Europa League first leg is scheduled to be played on 28th July with second leg on the 4th August.
Should the Hammers be unlucky and drawn at home for the first leg they will just ask UEFA and the opposing team to switch legs. This should be a simple process and is not without precedence. Last season, West Ham were drawn away in Andorra against FC Lusitans but both sides agreed to swap the legs and the first leg was instead played at the Boleyn Ground on Thursday 2nd July with the away leg on Thursday 9th July.
Other commentators have mentioned the Juventus friendly 7th August could be rescheduled but there is little room to reschedule with the Premier League starting on Saturday 13th August and quite frankly no reason to.
The Juventus friendly will probably see just a cameo appearance from many of the senior players with a long season ahead. The likes of Reece Oxford, Reece Burke, Darren Randolph, Havard Nordtveit and Toni Martínez will likely get a start along with many of the new signings who won't necessary go straight into the first team having a significant role.
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Andy Carroll helps the homeless
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
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West Ham striker Andy Carroll pulled over on his boys holiday road trip in Texas, USA to give a homeless man by the side of the road drinks, food and towels. A video posted on the 27 year old's personal social media account shows the lads laughing as they hand over over bottles of water, cans of Sprite, Pringles and beach towels before handing over their plastic cool box to a homeless person. The lads have visited Houston, Galveston and Austin in the state of Texas so far dodging a Tornado in Galveston when an emergency warning was sent out. The lads saw the funny side and took cover in a bath to wait out the storm.
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Gold responds to OS first game critics
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
West Ham Chairman, David Gold has been quick to answer critics disappointed that the Juventus friendly will no longer be the first game at the Olympic Stadium. Gold speaking on twitter said "We made clear that the date for the opening fixture might change dependent on our qualification for Europe. dg"
When one supporter suggested many fans will return tickets for the Juvnetus friendly but Gold replied: "I would be surprised if a supporter of West Ham would want to return his ticket for the game against Juventus. dg"
One Hammers fan called Paul Turner messaged Gold to say: "Hearing we can't play out first games at "home" because it will still be in athletics mode..If only we owned our own ground."
Gold quickly responded "Paul there are very few clubs that own their own grounds most are owned by there banks. dg"
Paul responded "David my house still has a mortgage on it .. But the bank doesn't tell me when I can use the house .." for which Gold replied: "True but if you don't make the payments they will. dg"
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Hammers linked with Colombian striker
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 23, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
According to Mercato 365, AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca has been added to West Ham's extended list of striker transfer targets this summer. He's scored 17 times in the league this season and added two assists but could be allowed to leave AC Milan in the summer and is valued at 30 million Euros (£23m). According to WhoScored.com, he's scored those goals despite managing only 1.9 shots per game. Squawka.com clocks his shooting accuracy at an excellent 67 percent—and it was as high as 70 percent in late February. The Colombia striker has been disappointed with the club's Italian's ability to compete for a Champions League place. The 29 year old has attracted interested from Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United as well as a host of European sides. Bacca has smashed 20 goals for AC Milan this season in all competitions having arrived from Sevilla last summer, and that's now 97 league goals in the last four seasons, across spells with Belgian side Club Brugge, La Liga's Sevilla and now AC Milan.
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West Ham end of season review: Slaven Bilic leads Hammers to brilliant season as they wave goodbye to Upton Park
West Ham finished seventh in Premier League following excellent season
Popular Slaven Bilic hit the ground running as manager with good results
Dimitri Payet quickly became the club's talisman and a fan hero
By MATT BARLOW FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:49, 23 May 2016 | UPDATED: 11:49, 23 May 2016
Now that the curtain has fallen on the domestic season, it's time to reflect on the highs and lows, heroes and and villains, and what the future may hold.
As part of our end-of-season guides to every team in the Premier League, Sportsmail's MATT BARLOW looks back at West Ham's best season in years...
In a nutshell, how was the season?
Brilliant beyond expectations. The best top-flight points total for 30 years, memorable away wins at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City and a perfect platform for the Olympic Stadium move. The feeble surrender to Romania's Astra Giurgiu in the Europa League was soon forgotten.
Who was the shining light?
Dmitri Payet: it did not take long for his twinkling toes and dazzling free-kick goals to land him the mantle as the darling of the fans at Upton Park. His brilliant form also secured a return to the France team and a new £125,000 a year contract until 2021, making him the best-paid West Ham player of all time.
Who failed to live up to expectations?
Alex Song: Unable to reproduce the form of his first season on loan from Barcelona and nagged by injuries. Bilic soon decided the midfield balance was better off with Cheikhou Kouyate and the wonderfully consistent Mark Noble in the centre and Song was forgotten.
How did the manager get on?
Better than anyone envisaged, considering he was far from the first choice. Bilic started with a win at Arsenal and his team produced a stirring comeback to beat Manchester United in the final home game. In between he said the right things, produced exciting football and generated the atmosphere around the club.
What was the best moment?
Winston Reid's goal to complete a stirring comeback and clinch a 3-2 win against Manchester United on an emotional final night at Upton Park. (Notwithstanding the mindless bottle attack by some fans on the United team bus, of course.)
And the worst?
Heavy defeat at home to Swansea in the penultimate home game of the season. Without this, West Ham would have gone into the final day of the season with a chance of finishing fourth.
Reasons to be cheerful for next season?
A new dawn at the Olympic Stadium with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, an exciting team and a charismatic manager.
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West Ham will take the Europa League seriously, insists chairman David Gold
West Ham qualified for Europe thanks to Manchester United's FA Cup win
Hammers had missed out after finishing seventh in the Premier League
But United's victory over Crystal Palace secured a Europa League spot
By IAN RODRICKS, REUTERS
PUBLISHED: 11:28, 23 May 2016 | UPDATED: 11:28, 23 May 2016
West Ham United will not take Europa League lightly next season after being gifted a spot in the competition by Manchester United's FA Cup triumph, joint chairman David Gold has said.
West Ham missed out on qualifying for Europe after finishing seventh in the Premier League but United's victory over Crystal Palace at Wembley on Saturday secured a Europa League spot for Slaven Bilic's men for second successive year. 'It was an exciting and thrilling end to the final and what a goal from (Jesse) Lingard to win the game,' Gold told the club's website. 'There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left celebrating as we are back in Europe. 'As we prepare for the big move into the new stadium this is another exciting challenge for the football club.' West Ham lost to Romania's Astra Giurgiu in the third qualifying round in Europe's second tier competition last season but Gold insisted the club were keen to add to their trophy haul as they move into a new era at London's Olympic Stadium. 'We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it,' Gold added.
'It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played in the early rounds last summer.'
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, May 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd May 2016
Runners-up spot for Hammers in Hong Kong
WHUFC.com
West Ham United finished as runners-up in the Hong Kong Sevens tournament on
Sunday for the second consecutive year as they were beaten 2-0 by Aston
Villa in the final. The young Hammers progressed from Group D as winners on
Saturday after two draws against Singapore Cricket Club and HKFA and a
victory over Leicester City, securing their quarter-final place against
local side Eastern on Sunday. And after a 1-0 win in the last-eight of the
competition in the morning, the Hammers came up against Seoul FC in the
semi-final stage for a place in the final once again after last year's 3-2
defeat to Atletico Madrid. Another one-goal victory followed and the Hammers
found themselves up against fellow English side Aston Villa in the final,
but the Midlands side's 2-0 success saw them lift the trophy. Full-back
Lewis Page grabbed the Claret and Blue's winner against Eastern in the
quarter-final, firing a left-footed attempt across the keeper into the
bottom corner, and spirits were high heading into the final four. He said:
"I haven't scored in a while, so it was nice to get on the scoresheet. It
was great to get us into the semi-finals so hopefully we can push on from
here."
Another one-goal victory was all that was needed when FC Seoul were the
opponents in the next round, and Jahmal Hector-Ingram was the scorer,
tapping in from one yard out following a superb passing move. Alex Pike, who
scored two for the Hammers on Saturday in the tournament, reacted: "The game
[against Seoul] was our toughest game so far. We got to the final last year
and we're there again, so fingers crossed we can go and win this one."
But it wasn't to be again for the Hammers, as Villa scored through Harry
McKirdy and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy to lift the trophy.
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Gold - We are ready for the Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold is thrilled to see the Hammers
back in the Europa League next season and sees no reason why the Club cannot
reach the latter stages of the competition.
Jesse Lingard's extra-time winner for Manchester United in the FA Cup Final
win over Crystal Palace on Saturday ensured West Ham will be playing in
Europe for the second consecutive season.
Mr Gold feels it is just rewards for a memorable final year at the Boleyn
Ground where the Club accumulated the highest number of points in the
Premier League, scored the most goals and recorded the best top-flight goal
difference since 1986.
Slaven Bilic has already made his first signing of the summer with the
arrival of Norway international Havard Nordtveit and with more to follow, Mr
Gold feels the squad will be well equipped for another European adventure.
Mr Gold said: "It was an exciting and thrilling end to the Final and what a
goal from Lingard to win the game.
"There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left
celebrating as we are back in Europe for the second consecutive year.
"As we prepare for the big move into the new Stadium this is another
exciting challenge for the football Club.
"Liverpool showed it is possible to go all the way and they were very
unlucky to lose in the Final. They could have been in the Champions League
next season.
"We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it.
"It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get
European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played
in the early rounds last summer.
"They are now a year older and have more experience under their belt so will
be better equipped to deal with the pressures of playing in such a big
competition.
"We will also have new signings coming into the squad who will also make the
squad stronger and it will be another great opportunity for us to challenge
for major silverware and a Champions League position."
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE EXCLUSIVE: ENQUIRES GO IN FOR A NUMBER OF PLAYERS AND CLUB
FAVOURITES SET TO LEAVE! ALL TRANSFERS DISCUSSED HERE
22 MAY 2016
The West Ham Way.co.uk
So we are in Europe after all. I personally cannot wait and think that it
is a good thing for us for a number of reasons. Firstly European football
under the lights is a great way to welcome the new stadium. Secondly, for
years I have dreamt of European football to be a regular thing for us and
whilst it isn't the Champions League that we dreamt of it is a start.
Thirdly, it may attract players to the club. Most players want to play in
Europe even it is the Europa. Fourthly, arguably the most important reason
is that we may be able to keep some of our players happy. We are lucky to
have two brilliant goalkeepers; Randolph could play regularly in cup
competition. Youngsters like Burke, Oxford and Cullen can get more games
than they would without Europe and of course it is a chance to keep four
strikers scoring. The last reason for me is that it may give some fans a
chance to see the football at the Olympic stadium (Mahindra Stadium) who may
not get the chance. Our season ticket sales have been phenomenal but as a
consequence many have been left frustrated. This may mean some get the
chance to go who would usually miss out. For me Europe is definitely a good
thing.
So on to transfers and the start of what is to be a very busy window. We
have had a well-publicised bid for Lacazette rejected. This bid was
rejected. The bid did not break down because of payment structure, it was
rejected because they wanted more money for him. The problem we have is
that PSG have registered their interest and with Ibrahimovic (another one of
our targets) leaving they want a top forward. The chance to raid one of
their main rivals, for their best player has been appealing to them. PSG
have a number of targets as well as Lacazette but Lyon know they have a man
in demand and a man they can demand more for. To say the bid is "dead" is
too early at this stage. It is early May so until the player joins another
club, the bid cannot be said to be dead. The player has expressed his
keenness to join an English club so there is a chance. Lyon have apparently
named their price and we are looking to meet it again. Whether this will be
enough with PSG being around I am not sure but the player is the number one
target.
We have launched enquires for many players. Another "enquiry" that has got
a lot of media attention is the discussion with Bournemouth for Richie and
Wilson. As I said at the time we were "keen" on both players and spoke to
his agent who passed on our interest to the club and leaked to the press.
The discussions with the agent were not intended to become public and were
not meant to come out just before Bournemouth played their last game. This
was all triggered by his agent and then became a good excuse for the
Bournemouth manager when they lost against Manchester United. We "enquired"
as to their availability and we wouldn't have paid anywhere near the £25m
that the media reported.
As I broke in one of my previous columns we have also triggered Jamie
Vardy's £25m release clause. Whether we can persuade him to leave a spot
in the Champions League with the current Champions is a different matter but
we will offer a large wage to do so. We are apparently happy to double his
wages and take him up to a huge basic wage.
Another player who we have launched a bid for and one I expect is the most
likely to go through at this stage is Jonathan Calleri the Argentine who
attracted the attention of the club whilst playing alongside Carlos Tevez at
Boca Juniors. This deal will be more likely to be a loan move.
We have enquired about many forwards Batshuayi being the main one but he
seems most likely to move to Spurs. There are domestic players in Benteke,
the Ayew's and Bony as well as a number of forwards who have scored in other
countries such as Icardi and Embolo (someone we have monitored for a while
but have doubts over). Another player who we are interested in but hasn't
been that well reported is Martin Braithwaite but again this is just an
enquiry rather than him necessarily being a top target. There is some talk
that Gignac, who we have been interested in before, could also be someone we
move for. He is currently in Mexico and apparently not happy. No enquiry
for him has been made but depending on how the other transfers go this may
be revisited. Another name to watch out for that hasn't been mentioned in
any media circles is Benjamin Moukandjo, a Cameroon International striker at
Lorient in France.
As far as right backs go I reported all the targets in my last column.
These where 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. We have made an offer to Gregory Van Der Wiel but
he has a number of offers but he is the top target there. If not the club
may look at Debuchy.
Wingers are also a priority again last week's column covered these. It has
been well reported elsewhere that we would like Tore of Super Slav's former
club. Yes he is on there but meeting with Bilic in Turkey didn't happen
this week. There are many other wing targets on the list too and watch out
for a former Premier League player who has had an outstanding season in
France for Nice. Hatem Ben Arfa is out of contract this Summer and is a
player the club would be interested in.
What we have to be assured in is that the chairman is working flat out to
land the best deals for the club. We have already brought in Nordvteit who
I had reported for months, so we already have one player in and we will sign
another 6-8 players I think so it is early days and no need to panic.
In terms of player departures a number of clubs are lining up make an offer
for Valencia. We will entertain offers for him and he is most likely to go
to China who will pay large wages for him. This is also the likely
destination of Alex Song too. Another player who we could let go is Obiang.
I mentioned this in tweets about two weeks ago but Italian and Spanish clubs
are interested in him and he has been frustrated at his lack of first team
opportunities. He likes the club but is considering his options. If we
land our forward targets there is a chance that Sakho will be allowed to
leave. Bilic has lost some faith in him and would be prepared to let him
go. Borussia Mönchengladbach has showed keen interest and there would also
be domestic interest and from the French league. David Sullivan is a big
fan of Sakho and has a lot of time for him so it will be interesting to see
what happens with him. I think it will depend on how many forwards we land.
It is true that we are considering selling James Tomkins. Long term Bilic
sees this first choice centre back partnership being Ogbonna and Reid. Both
players are at an age where they can continue for a number of years now.
James Collins provides excellent immediate back up and of course you have
the highly talented Reece Burke and Reece Oxford providing competition too.
Both these players are concerned about their first team opportunities.
Burke's contract is up next year and he is yet to sign. He is a huge West
Ham fan but he has his career to think of and there is already a lot of
interest in him. This week it has been well reported how Reece Oxford has
rejected an initial contract. His agent has caused the club a number of
issues recently but the club hope he will sign an initial £20k a week deal
to keep both Manchester clubs away from him. This means that another West
Ham supporter in Tomkins could be surplus to requirements. Both Crystal
Palace and Sunderland, with two of his ex-managers Pardew and Allardyce, are
front runners in moving for the player. We would be likely to accept a
£10-£12m bid. O'Brien, Moses, Emineke and Song will all leave too and this
will free up a lot of wages for players.
I was pleased to introduce the Olympic Insider to the site this week,
alongside the Boleyn Informer, myself and The Sullivan brothers we should
have the transfers pretty well covered on the new site. Please have a look
round at the new layout, it appears to be considered a positive step by all.
We have also had a number of exciting developments with the site and I have
three big meetings lined up. More will follow but it does mean there isn't
a media form that we won't have covered. Our next fanzine is now available
to buy for £3 for a paper copy and then we sell it electronically
afterwards. There will be many interesting features in there plus I answer
more questions about my account that I get asked regularly. Information
that you will not find elsewhere. Last edition we sold out very early so if
you wish to get your copy then please order here. The West Ham Way Fanzine
we are still looking for people to advertise on the site so that we can keep
expanding. We have a range of different prices and opportunities so please
get in touch.
Finally I would like to congratulate the youth team in getting to the final
in Hong Kong. There is a number of talented players in that squad and Mark
Philips has worked wonders with them too. I expect to see many of them have
great futures in the game.
The summer is expected to be a scorcher in temperature and I am sure it will
be a great one in transfers for us
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YOUNG NIGERIAN SET TO JOIN HAMMERS?
22 MAY 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Nigeria U20 international Agor Chukwudi is attracting concrete interest from
the English Premier League, with West Ham tabling a bid of 200,000 euros for
the highly-rated starlet – Original article
The 17-year-old Chukwudi is from the stable of ASJ Academy, the same nursery
team where the Arsenal linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his
footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com.
"We are studying the offer and it is very likely we will accept it. We are
interested in the player's development and not the money that is being
offered."
To make up for the meager transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham,
ASJ Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them
ten percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Golden Eaglets at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netted against the United States in the group stage.
And if his name did not ring a bell , he made the back pages after scoring
the game-winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
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West Ham facing Olympic Stadium issue after qualifying for Europa League
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 22/05/16 2:45pm
SSN
West Ham are facing a logistical headache after qualifying for next season's
UEFA Europa League. The Hammers' place in Europe was confirmed on Saturday
following Manchester United's 2-1 FA Cup final victory over Crystal Palace.
West Ham, who will play their football at the 60,000-seater Olympic Stadium
next season, will enter the competition in the third qualifying round, with
the first leg scheduled to take place on July 28 and the second leg a week
later on August 4. The timing of the first leg poses a slight issue for
West Ham as the Olympic Stadium will be used for the London Anniversary
Games on the weekend of July 22. It usually takes seven days to convert the
stadium from athletics mode to football mode and this may cause an issue for
West Ham if they are drawn to play the first leg at home.
If West Ham are indeed drawn to play the first leg at home, Sky Sports News
HQ understand that the club are likely to ask for the location of the legs
to be switched. But if they avoid being drawn at home in the first leg, the
return match a week later will be played at the Olympic Stadium and will be
West Ham's first game at their new home. The club, however, will continue
to mark the official opening of the Olympic Stadium with a marquee friendly
against Serie A champions Juventus on August 7.
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West Ham's shiny new home at the Olympic Stadium may NOT be ready for the
start of their season
15:02, 22 MAY 2016 UPDATED 15:02, 22 MAY 2016
BY LIAM CORLESS
An athletics event in late July means West Ham may be unable to play the
home leg of their Europa League qualifier at the Olympic Stadium
The Mirror
West Ham might have to find an alternative venue to the Olympic Stadium for
the home leg of their Europa League play-off. The Hammers' place in Europe
next season was confirmed after Manchester United beat Crystal Palace to win
the FA Cup on Saturday. United's victory meant West Ham qualified for the
Europa League by virtue of their seventh-placed Premier League finish. A
spot in the competition is reserved for the winners of the FA Cup, but as
United had already qualified for Europe through their fifth-placed league
finish, the spot dropped down to West Ham. The third qualifying round
matches are set to take place on Thursday 28 July and Thursday 4 August.
If West Ham are drawn to play the second leg at home, there won't be an
issue, but if they are drawn to play the first leg at home, they will have
to explore alternative venues to the Olympic Stadium. That's because an
athletics event is scheduled to take place at the Olympic Stadium between
22-24 July, and it takes a week for the venue to be set up for football
purposes, which means it won't be ready in time. West Ham will discover the
course of action they need to take when the draw is made on Friday 15 July.
The club said farewell to the Boleyn Ground - their home since 2004 - with
an emotional win over Manchester United on May 10th.
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European schedule – Keep these dates free!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Keep these dates free in your diary! You never know, we could go all the
way!
Europa League Third qualifying round 15th July 2016 Draw date
First leg 28th July 20164 Second Leg 4th August 2016
Europa League Play-off round 5th August Draw date
First Leg 18th August 2016 Second Leg 25th August 2016
Europa League Group Stage 26th August 2016 Draw Date in Monaco
Euro trophyGroup Match 1 15th September 2016
Group Match 2 29th September 2016
Group Match 3 20th October 2016
Group Match 4 3rd November 2016
Group Match 5 24th November 2016
Group Match 6 8th December 2016
swedbank-Friends-arenaEuropa League Knock-Out Stage Last 32 12th December
Draw Date
First Leg 16th February 2017 Second leg 23rd February 2017
Europa League Knock-Out Stage Last 16 24th February Draw Date
First Leg 9th March 2017 Second leg 16th March 2017
stadiumEuropa League Quarter Finals 17th March Draw Date
First Leg 13th April 2017 Second leg 20th April 2017
Europa League Semi-Finals 21st April Draw Date
First Leg 4th May 2017 Second leg 11th May 2017
Europa League Final on 24th May 2017 at Friends Arena in Sweden
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Merson tips West Ham for Champions league
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has suggested that West Ham will qualify for
the Champions League by 2019.
West Ham will compete in the Europa League third qualifying round next
season after Manchester United won the FA Cup but at one point it looked
like the Hammers could have finished in the top four this season just gone.
West Ham reached a peak of third place during the season but spent a number
of weeks in fourth place. If it were not for some inconsistent referee
performances towards the end of the 2015-16 season the Irons could have
finished above Manchester City who finished the season just three points
above us in fourth place.
Merson says that West Ham who move to the former Olympic Stadium next season
will rub shoulders with Europe's elite in the coming years. Asked on Sky
Sports' Fantasy Football podcast whether West Ham would qualify for the
Champions League next year, Merson replied: "Within the next three years."
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Hammers bid for Nigerian midfield starlet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Allnigeriasoccer.com claims that West Ham has tabled a bid of £155,000 for
U20 international Chukwudi Agor.
The 17-year-old is from the ASJ Academy, the same team where the Arsenal
linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com. "We are studying the offer and it is
very likely we will accept it. We are interested in the player's development
and not the money that is being offered."
To make up for the small transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham, ASJ
Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them ten
percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Nigerian team at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netting against the United States in the group stage. He also
scored the winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United finished as runners-up in the Hong Kong Sevens tournament on
Sunday for the second consecutive year as they were beaten 2-0 by Aston
Villa in the final. The young Hammers progressed from Group D as winners on
Saturday after two draws against Singapore Cricket Club and HKFA and a
victory over Leicester City, securing their quarter-final place against
local side Eastern on Sunday. And after a 1-0 win in the last-eight of the
competition in the morning, the Hammers came up against Seoul FC in the
semi-final stage for a place in the final once again after last year's 3-2
defeat to Atletico Madrid. Another one-goal victory followed and the Hammers
found themselves up against fellow English side Aston Villa in the final,
but the Midlands side's 2-0 success saw them lift the trophy. Full-back
Lewis Page grabbed the Claret and Blue's winner against Eastern in the
quarter-final, firing a left-footed attempt across the keeper into the
bottom corner, and spirits were high heading into the final four. He said:
"I haven't scored in a while, so it was nice to get on the scoresheet. It
was great to get us into the semi-finals so hopefully we can push on from
here."
Another one-goal victory was all that was needed when FC Seoul were the
opponents in the next round, and Jahmal Hector-Ingram was the scorer,
tapping in from one yard out following a superb passing move. Alex Pike, who
scored two for the Hammers on Saturday in the tournament, reacted: "The game
[against Seoul] was our toughest game so far. We got to the final last year
and we're there again, so fingers crossed we can go and win this one."
But it wasn't to be again for the Hammers, as Villa scored through Harry
McKirdy and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy to lift the trophy.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold - We are ready for the Europa League
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Gold is thrilled to see the Hammers
back in the Europa League next season and sees no reason why the Club cannot
reach the latter stages of the competition.
Jesse Lingard's extra-time winner for Manchester United in the FA Cup Final
win over Crystal Palace on Saturday ensured West Ham will be playing in
Europe for the second consecutive season.
Mr Gold feels it is just rewards for a memorable final year at the Boleyn
Ground where the Club accumulated the highest number of points in the
Premier League, scored the most goals and recorded the best top-flight goal
difference since 1986.
Slaven Bilic has already made his first signing of the summer with the
arrival of Norway international Havard Nordtveit and with more to follow, Mr
Gold feels the squad will be well equipped for another European adventure.
Mr Gold said: "It was an exciting and thrilling end to the Final and what a
goal from Lingard to win the game.
"There was so much hanging on it for West Ham fans and we were all left
celebrating as we are back in Europe for the second consecutive year.
"As we prepare for the big move into the new Stadium this is another
exciting challenge for the football Club.
"Liverpool showed it is possible to go all the way and they were very
unlucky to lose in the Final. They could have been in the Champions League
next season.
"We should take this competition seriously and we are good enough to win it.
"It will also be another great opportunity for our young players to get
European experience and a number of them showed their quality when we played
in the early rounds last summer.
"They are now a year older and have more experience under their belt so will
be better equipped to deal with the pressures of playing in such a big
competition.
"We will also have new signings coming into the squad who will also make the
squad stronger and it will be another great opportunity for us to challenge
for major silverware and a Champions League position."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXWHUEMPLOYEE EXCLUSIVE: ENQUIRES GO IN FOR A NUMBER OF PLAYERS AND CLUB
FAVOURITES SET TO LEAVE! ALL TRANSFERS DISCUSSED HERE
22 MAY 2016
The West Ham Way.co.uk
So we are in Europe after all. I personally cannot wait and think that it
is a good thing for us for a number of reasons. Firstly European football
under the lights is a great way to welcome the new stadium. Secondly, for
years I have dreamt of European football to be a regular thing for us and
whilst it isn't the Champions League that we dreamt of it is a start.
Thirdly, it may attract players to the club. Most players want to play in
Europe even it is the Europa. Fourthly, arguably the most important reason
is that we may be able to keep some of our players happy. We are lucky to
have two brilliant goalkeepers; Randolph could play regularly in cup
competition. Youngsters like Burke, Oxford and Cullen can get more games
than they would without Europe and of course it is a chance to keep four
strikers scoring. The last reason for me is that it may give some fans a
chance to see the football at the Olympic stadium (Mahindra Stadium) who may
not get the chance. Our season ticket sales have been phenomenal but as a
consequence many have been left frustrated. This may mean some get the
chance to go who would usually miss out. For me Europe is definitely a good
thing.
So on to transfers and the start of what is to be a very busy window. We
have had a well-publicised bid for Lacazette rejected. This bid was
rejected. The bid did not break down because of payment structure, it was
rejected because they wanted more money for him. The problem we have is
that PSG have registered their interest and with Ibrahimovic (another one of
our targets) leaving they want a top forward. The chance to raid one of
their main rivals, for their best player has been appealing to them. PSG
have a number of targets as well as Lacazette but Lyon know they have a man
in demand and a man they can demand more for. To say the bid is "dead" is
too early at this stage. It is early May so until the player joins another
club, the bid cannot be said to be dead. The player has expressed his
keenness to join an English club so there is a chance. Lyon have apparently
named their price and we are looking to meet it again. Whether this will be
enough with PSG being around I am not sure but the player is the number one
target.
We have launched enquires for many players. Another "enquiry" that has got
a lot of media attention is the discussion with Bournemouth for Richie and
Wilson. As I said at the time we were "keen" on both players and spoke to
his agent who passed on our interest to the club and leaked to the press.
The discussions with the agent were not intended to become public and were
not meant to come out just before Bournemouth played their last game. This
was all triggered by his agent and then became a good excuse for the
Bournemouth manager when they lost against Manchester United. We "enquired"
as to their availability and we wouldn't have paid anywhere near the £25m
that the media reported.
As I broke in one of my previous columns we have also triggered Jamie
Vardy's £25m release clause. Whether we can persuade him to leave a spot
in the Champions League with the current Champions is a different matter but
we will offer a large wage to do so. We are apparently happy to double his
wages and take him up to a huge basic wage.
Another player who we have launched a bid for and one I expect is the most
likely to go through at this stage is Jonathan Calleri the Argentine who
attracted the attention of the club whilst playing alongside Carlos Tevez at
Boca Juniors. This deal will be more likely to be a loan move.
We have enquired about many forwards Batshuayi being the main one but he
seems most likely to move to Spurs. There are domestic players in Benteke,
the Ayew's and Bony as well as a number of forwards who have scored in other
countries such as Icardi and Embolo (someone we have monitored for a while
but have doubts over). Another player who we are interested in but hasn't
been that well reported is Martin Braithwaite but again this is just an
enquiry rather than him necessarily being a top target. There is some talk
that Gignac, who we have been interested in before, could also be someone we
move for. He is currently in Mexico and apparently not happy. No enquiry
for him has been made but depending on how the other transfers go this may
be revisited. Another name to watch out for that hasn't been mentioned in
any media circles is Benjamin Moukandjo, a Cameroon International striker at
Lorient in France.
As far as right backs go I reported all the targets in my last column.
These where 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. We have made an offer to Gregory Van Der Wiel but
he has a number of offers but he is the top target there. If not the club
may look at Debuchy.
Wingers are also a priority again last week's column covered these. It has
been well reported elsewhere that we would like Tore of Super Slav's former
club. Yes he is on there but meeting with Bilic in Turkey didn't happen
this week. There are many other wing targets on the list too and watch out
for a former Premier League player who has had an outstanding season in
France for Nice. Hatem Ben Arfa is out of contract this Summer and is a
player the club would be interested in.
What we have to be assured in is that the chairman is working flat out to
land the best deals for the club. We have already brought in Nordvteit who
I had reported for months, so we already have one player in and we will sign
another 6-8 players I think so it is early days and no need to panic.
In terms of player departures a number of clubs are lining up make an offer
for Valencia. We will entertain offers for him and he is most likely to go
to China who will pay large wages for him. This is also the likely
destination of Alex Song too. Another player who we could let go is Obiang.
I mentioned this in tweets about two weeks ago but Italian and Spanish clubs
are interested in him and he has been frustrated at his lack of first team
opportunities. He likes the club but is considering his options. If we
land our forward targets there is a chance that Sakho will be allowed to
leave. Bilic has lost some faith in him and would be prepared to let him
go. Borussia Mönchengladbach has showed keen interest and there would also
be domestic interest and from the French league. David Sullivan is a big
fan of Sakho and has a lot of time for him so it will be interesting to see
what happens with him. I think it will depend on how many forwards we land.
It is true that we are considering selling James Tomkins. Long term Bilic
sees this first choice centre back partnership being Ogbonna and Reid. Both
players are at an age where they can continue for a number of years now.
James Collins provides excellent immediate back up and of course you have
the highly talented Reece Burke and Reece Oxford providing competition too.
Both these players are concerned about their first team opportunities.
Burke's contract is up next year and he is yet to sign. He is a huge West
Ham fan but he has his career to think of and there is already a lot of
interest in him. This week it has been well reported how Reece Oxford has
rejected an initial contract. His agent has caused the club a number of
issues recently but the club hope he will sign an initial £20k a week deal
to keep both Manchester clubs away from him. This means that another West
Ham supporter in Tomkins could be surplus to requirements. Both Crystal
Palace and Sunderland, with two of his ex-managers Pardew and Allardyce, are
front runners in moving for the player. We would be likely to accept a
£10-£12m bid. O'Brien, Moses, Emineke and Song will all leave too and this
will free up a lot of wages for players.
I was pleased to introduce the Olympic Insider to the site this week,
alongside the Boleyn Informer, myself and The Sullivan brothers we should
have the transfers pretty well covered on the new site. Please have a look
round at the new layout, it appears to be considered a positive step by all.
We have also had a number of exciting developments with the site and I have
three big meetings lined up. More will follow but it does mean there isn't
a media form that we won't have covered. Our next fanzine is now available
to buy for £3 for a paper copy and then we sell it electronically
afterwards. There will be many interesting features in there plus I answer
more questions about my account that I get asked regularly. Information
that you will not find elsewhere. Last edition we sold out very early so if
you wish to get your copy then please order here. The West Ham Way Fanzine
we are still looking for people to advertise on the site so that we can keep
expanding. We have a range of different prices and opportunities so please
get in touch.
Finally I would like to congratulate the youth team in getting to the final
in Hong Kong. There is a number of talented players in that squad and Mark
Philips has worked wonders with them too. I expect to see many of them have
great futures in the game.
The summer is expected to be a scorcher in temperature and I am sure it will
be a great one in transfers for us
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YOUNG NIGERIAN SET TO JOIN HAMMERS?
22 MAY 2016
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Nigeria U20 international Agor Chukwudi is attracting concrete interest from
the English Premier League, with West Ham tabling a bid of 200,000 euros for
the highly-rated starlet – Original article
The 17-year-old Chukwudi is from the stable of ASJ Academy, the same nursery
team where the Arsenal linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his
footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com.
"We are studying the offer and it is very likely we will accept it. We are
interested in the player's development and not the money that is being
offered."
To make up for the meager transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham,
ASJ Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them
ten percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Golden Eaglets at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netted against the United States in the group stage.
And if his name did not ring a bell , he made the back pages after scoring
the game-winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
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West Ham facing Olympic Stadium issue after qualifying for Europa League
By Nick Lustig
Last Updated: 22/05/16 2:45pm
SSN
West Ham are facing a logistical headache after qualifying for next season's
UEFA Europa League. The Hammers' place in Europe was confirmed on Saturday
following Manchester United's 2-1 FA Cup final victory over Crystal Palace.
West Ham, who will play their football at the 60,000-seater Olympic Stadium
next season, will enter the competition in the third qualifying round, with
the first leg scheduled to take place on July 28 and the second leg a week
later on August 4. The timing of the first leg poses a slight issue for
West Ham as the Olympic Stadium will be used for the London Anniversary
Games on the weekend of July 22. It usually takes seven days to convert the
stadium from athletics mode to football mode and this may cause an issue for
West Ham if they are drawn to play the first leg at home.
If West Ham are indeed drawn to play the first leg at home, Sky Sports News
HQ understand that the club are likely to ask for the location of the legs
to be switched. But if they avoid being drawn at home in the first leg, the
return match a week later will be played at the Olympic Stadium and will be
West Ham's first game at their new home. The club, however, will continue
to mark the official opening of the Olympic Stadium with a marquee friendly
against Serie A champions Juventus on August 7.
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West Ham's shiny new home at the Olympic Stadium may NOT be ready for the
start of their season
15:02, 22 MAY 2016 UPDATED 15:02, 22 MAY 2016
BY LIAM CORLESS
An athletics event in late July means West Ham may be unable to play the
home leg of their Europa League qualifier at the Olympic Stadium
The Mirror
West Ham might have to find an alternative venue to the Olympic Stadium for
the home leg of their Europa League play-off. The Hammers' place in Europe
next season was confirmed after Manchester United beat Crystal Palace to win
the FA Cup on Saturday. United's victory meant West Ham qualified for the
Europa League by virtue of their seventh-placed Premier League finish. A
spot in the competition is reserved for the winners of the FA Cup, but as
United had already qualified for Europe through their fifth-placed league
finish, the spot dropped down to West Ham. The third qualifying round
matches are set to take place on Thursday 28 July and Thursday 4 August.
If West Ham are drawn to play the second leg at home, there won't be an
issue, but if they are drawn to play the first leg at home, they will have
to explore alternative venues to the Olympic Stadium. That's because an
athletics event is scheduled to take place at the Olympic Stadium between
22-24 July, and it takes a week for the venue to be set up for football
purposes, which means it won't be ready in time. West Ham will discover the
course of action they need to take when the draw is made on Friday 15 July.
The club said farewell to the Boleyn Ground - their home since 2004 - with
an emotional win over Manchester United on May 10th.
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European schedule – Keep these dates free!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Keep these dates free in your diary! You never know, we could go all the
way!
Europa League Third qualifying round 15th July 2016 Draw date
First leg 28th July 20164 Second Leg 4th August 2016
Europa League Play-off round 5th August Draw date
First Leg 18th August 2016 Second Leg 25th August 2016
Europa League Group Stage 26th August 2016 Draw Date in Monaco
Euro trophyGroup Match 1 15th September 2016
Group Match 2 29th September 2016
Group Match 3 20th October 2016
Group Match 4 3rd November 2016
Group Match 5 24th November 2016
Group Match 6 8th December 2016
swedbank-Friends-arenaEuropa League Knock-Out Stage Last 32 12th December
Draw Date
First Leg 16th February 2017 Second leg 23rd February 2017
Europa League Knock-Out Stage Last 16 24th February Draw Date
First Leg 9th March 2017 Second leg 16th March 2017
stadiumEuropa League Quarter Finals 17th March Draw Date
First Leg 13th April 2017 Second leg 20th April 2017
Europa League Semi-Finals 21st April Draw Date
First Leg 4th May 2017 Second leg 11th May 2017
Europa League Final on 24th May 2017 at Friends Arena in Sweden
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Merson tips West Ham for Champions league
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has suggested that West Ham will qualify for
the Champions League by 2019.
West Ham will compete in the Europa League third qualifying round next
season after Manchester United won the FA Cup but at one point it looked
like the Hammers could have finished in the top four this season just gone.
West Ham reached a peak of third place during the season but spent a number
of weeks in fourth place. If it were not for some inconsistent referee
performances towards the end of the 2015-16 season the Irons could have
finished above Manchester City who finished the season just three points
above us in fourth place.
Merson says that West Ham who move to the former Olympic Stadium next season
will rub shoulders with Europe's elite in the coming years. Asked on Sky
Sports' Fantasy Football podcast whether West Ham would qualify for the
Champions League next year, Merson replied: "Within the next three years."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers bid for Nigerian midfield starlet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on May 22, 2016 in News, Whispers
C and H
Allnigeriasoccer.com claims that West Ham has tabled a bid of £155,000 for
U20 international Chukwudi Agor.
The 17-year-old is from the ASJ Academy, the same team where the Arsenal
linked midfielder Kelechi Nwakali first cut his footballing teeth.
"West Ham have offered Agor Chukwudi a straight contract without him having
to undergo trials, very soon he'll turn 18,"says CEO ASJ Academy Emeka
Amajiriaku to allnigeriasoccer.com. "We are studying the offer and it is
very likely we will accept it. We are interested in the player's development
and not the money that is being offered."
To make up for the small transfer fee that has been offered by West Ham, ASJ
Academy have inserted a sell-on clause in the proposed deal, giving them ten
percent of the fees if the player moves on from the Londoners in future.
Chukwudi was one of the unsung heroes of the Nigerian team at the 2015 Fifa
Under 17 World Cup, featuring in their first four games during the
tournament and netting against the United States in the group stage. He also
scored the winner on Saturday as the Nigeria U20s beat Burundi 1-0 in an
Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifier.
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