Preview - West Bromwich Albion
WHUFC.com
Where and when?
West Bromwich Albion v West Ham United
Premier League
The Hawthorns
Saturday 17 September 2016, 3pm BST
What's the story?
West Ham United will look to get the start to their 2016/17 Premier League
season back on track when they travel to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.
Having tasted defeat in three of their opening four games, Slaven Bilic's
side will be hoping for a quick turnaround against the Baggies – who sit
12th in the table after taking four points so far. Their points came from a
1-0 victory at Crystal Palace on the opening day and a 0-0 home draw against
Middlesbrough in their final game before the international break. Everton
and Bournemouth have both claimed maximum points against the Baggies this
term, while they exited the EFL Cup on penalties to League One side
Northampton Town after a 2-2 draw.
Off the pitch, a takeover was this week completed, with Chinese businessman
Guochuan Lai taking the reins from Jeremy Peace. West Ham, meanwhile,
suffered the shock of losing a two-goal lead en route to defeat against
Watford last time out, while their away games to date have returned losses
at Chelsea and Manchester City.
Team news
Mark Noble suffered a hand injury in last weekend's game against Watford,
and required eight stitches in a wound, but has trained this week wearing a
protective brace and will be fit to play. Elsewhere, Aaron Cresswell and
Andre Ayew are making good progress in their rehabilitation from knee and
thigh injuries but remain sidelined, while Andy Carroll is also out with a
knee problem. Alvaro Arbeloa is getting up to speed following his arrival on
deadline day, and looks set to make his Hammers bow in Wednesday's EFL Cup
tie against Accrington Stanley.
For the Baggies, deadline day arrival Hal Robson-Kanu could be involved for
the first time, while midfielder James Morrison is close to a return
following his hamstring injury. However, this match might come around too
soon.
Any links between the two?
No current Hammer or Baggie has turned out for the other club, although West
Brom's Hal Robson-Kanu is a Wales teammate of James Collins, and James
McClean travelled to Euro 2016 with Ireland – as did West Ham's Darren
Randolph. Last season, the Hammers enjoyed an awayday to remember at The
Hawthorns as a Mark Noble double, added to Cheikhou Kouyate's opener,
secured a 3-0 victory. At the Boleyn Ground, the two teams played out a 1-1
draw. Mauro Zarate's free-kick gave the Hammers an early lead, but the
unfortunate Winston Reid scored a second half own goal to level the scores.
How do I get to the game?
Click here for directions to the Hawthorns. You can find the latest news on
the roads here, and the trains here.
How can I watch the game?
The match will not be broadcast live in the UK, but supporters can follow
all the action as it happens on whufc.com and across our social channels.
Supporters outside the UK may be able to watch the match live, depending on
their location. Click here for full broadcast schedules.
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Slaven Speaks - West Brom
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic faced the media ahead of the Premier League game against West
Brom on Saturday. The Hammers boss provided the latest team-news and hopes
to see his team get straight back on the winning trail when they travel to
the Hawthorns.....
How do you view what happened last weekend and how do you propose to put
things right when you play West Brom on Saturday?
SB: "It was not good last weekend. We had individual mistakes and lost
confidence as a team. "The second goal was not about team defending, it was
simply a mis-understanding between a couple of players tat you see once a
season in a team. "I was not happy with the defending for some of the other
goals but we have worked on that and spoke about things behind closed-doors.
We had a really good meeting and now we are waiting to see the reaction from
the team."
Are you going to make any changes to the defence ahead of the game?
SB: "We can make a couple of changes but with every goal you are always
going to say it is always the defenders who are to blame for the goals.
"This is a game of mistakes but we have to defend better and defend like we
did this season against Bournemouth and the way we defended last season."
Would it help you if Alvaro Arbeloa is ready to make his debut for the Club?
SB: "Alvaro has more experience and we brought him here to play. He is not
here to be on the coaching staff. We needed one more player there and he is
available. He has quality.
"We are happy to have him here. But we also have Sam Byram and he is part of
the team. He is a young player who needs the team around him to play well
and then he can flourish.
"You cannot put all the blame on his young shoulders. Like any young player
he needs help from the team. He cannot be left isolated and one on one
situations. We have seen Ighalo do that every week and it was not about
Arbeloa playing or not playing."
On a positive note you must be very happy with the partnership that Michail
Antonio and Dimitri Payet forged last weekend?
SB: "Michail is scoring goals and has been brilliant. He has scored with
four headers and is very direct. He is linking up with Dimitri and it is
good. It happened last year many times.
"When the ball goes into the box if we don't have Andy Carroll, then it is
Michail who has the best opportunity to beat the defenders to the ball."
How close is Andy Carroll to making a first-team return?
SB: "Andy is much better now and has started running now. He will not be
available for West Brom but he is improving big time and very soon we will
have a full squad. "Sakho and Cresswell will be back soon. Aaron is
sprinting already and Ayew will be back sooner than what was expected."
What do you make of West Brom this season and how much would you would like
to repeat the 3-0 victory you had at the Hawthorns back in April?
SB: "They have a good team and have been playing good football. Even when we
won 3-0 they started the game very well and had a shot blocked on the line.
"They are playing good football and we know Tony Pulis and I have a big
respect for him and the job he is doing every year. "We are confident
because of what happened and it is good to have positive memories because
the result was only back in April."
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London derby awaits for confident Hammers
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Under 18s take on Fulham away from home on Saturday
Winger Anthony Scully believes the young Hammers are brimming with
self-belief ahead of the game
Scully also said he's enjoying his change of position on the pitch
Anthony Scully is relishing the prospect of a clash with London rivals
Fulham this weekend as the U18s aim to get back to winning ways. The Hammers
won their first two league matches against Reading and Tottenham Hotspur but
have since been beaten by Southampton and were held to a draw by Leicester
City. Though they couldn't achieve maximum points in their last outings,
performances have still been strong according to Scully. "Against Leicester
we should have won and against Southampton we shouldn't have lost," the
midfielder said. "Little lapses in concentration have cost us a couple of
times. "If you look at the stats [against Leicester], we dominated the
majority of the match. Then a mistake and a few little cheap errors brought
Leicester back into the game and it ended up 2-2. "The way we played was
very positive and we're going to take that into the next game."
After having a couple of seasons blighted by injury, the 17-year-old is
enjoying a consistent run of games this year. Having featured in all of the
U18s' matches so far, Scully has even been putting in extra training
sessions to improve and refine parts of his game. The teenager has also been
revelling in a change of position, which has seen him move out to the left –
an alteration from playing centrally over the past few seasons. "I thought I
did well out there in the last game. This season I'm playing in a new
position because I usually play more central and I'm enjoying it," he said.
"I'm looking forward to getting some goals and getting some assists like I
have been. I've had to change the positions I pick up because they're
different when you play out wide, so I've had to learn a lot. "I've had lots
of help from the coaches here and my dad used to play as a winger so I've
had help from him. I'm learning quickly and enjoying the position."
Steve Potts' team visit Fulham on Saturday and Scully is expecting he and
his teammates to focus fully on their own performance. The young Hammers
could jump to second in the U18 Premier League South Division with a victory
at the Fulham Training Ground (kick-off at 11am). "We can't wait for the
game this weekend, but we look forward to every game. Every game is going to
be important this year," Scully continued. "Personally, my aim is to win the
league so we're going to need to get the win against Fulham. "We're focusing
on our own game, if we play the way we know we can, we should have no
problem."
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Foundation celebrate national award nomination for staff member
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Foundation are delighted to announce that Austin Hughes,
Senior Inclusion Officer, has been shortlisted for a prestigious national
award in recognition of his work as a role model in grass-root communities,
tackling the issues in today's society.
Austin received over 250 nominations for the 'Positive Role Model Award for
Disability' and is one of 8 shortlisted contenders from a pool of tens of
thousands across the country.
The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 16th September at the Anglican
Cathedral in Liverpool, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Richard
Blackwood, and will see winners across 16 categories collect silverware for
their achievements in championing diversity in the UK.
Austin, who recently joined the Foundation's community team, is responsible
for promoting inclusion and diversity across our work in East London and
Essex, and will be working across a number of West Ham United Foundation
projects to ensure events are accessible to everyone in the community. By
delivering workshops for parents, carers and local community projects,
Austin will lead the way in supporting those with Autism, sharing best
practice to enable other organisations to cater for people with SEN.
Sham Motin, Community Sports Manager (and Austin's boss), said: "Before
joining the Foundation, Austin had been working for Anna Kennedy online,
supporting young people and adults with autism. This made him the perfect
candidate to help us reach our target of ensuring all Foundation initiatives
are fully inclusive by 2025. Being on the spectrum himself, Austin fully
understands the issues and problems faced when participating in sports and
working in a sports and educational background."
Everyone at the West Ham United Foundation is extremely proud of Austin's
efforts in supporting the local community, and we wish him the best of luck
in the awards.
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Lewis - Slaven will turn things around
WHUFC.com
Daily Mirror football writer Darren Lewis believes it is only a question of
time before Slaven Bilic gets his team back on the winning trail.
Lewis draws strong comparisons with last year after the Hammers suffered a
home defeat against Bournemouth and then managed to turn their season
around.
He sees no reason why they cannot do the same thing again and hopes the
likes of Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini will continue to show their best
skills and entertain everyone in the Premier League.....
I think Slaven will turn things around. I remember last season after the
Club were beaten by Bournemouth and Slaven said he felt under pressure.
After the press conference had finished, a few of us could not believe what
he said as it was so early in the season.
I look at the West Ham squad now and there is so much reason for them to be
confident that things can improve.
One concern could surround the defence and a few people have wanted to see
another defender brought into the club, but offensively West Ham are
fantastic.
There has been a debate this week that Watford were motivated to beat West
Ham last weekend because of the tricks and the flicks that the likes of
Payet and Lanzini were showing in the opening half an hour.
But I don't think there is anything wrong with players of that quality
expressing themselves on the pitch.
The fans pay good money to see that and long may the likes of Payet continue
to show off their tricks on the football pitch. I don't have a problem with
that.
I don't believe Payet was being arrogant and he was just being Dimitri
Payet. The goals West Ham conceded were of their own making.
The goal Troy Deeney scored just before half-time was down to a lack of
understanding and communication between Adrian and James Collins.
For us as journalists, Deeney's comments make great copy, but when you
analyse the performance there were a lot of self-inflicted injuries that
contributed to the result.
I think there is enough about the West Ham team to wake up and get started.
It is just taking time for everything to come together at West Ham United
this season.
When you look at the front six players there is a lot of creativity with the
likes of Payet, Lanzini and Michail Antonio who is now playing in his right
position and scoring goals.
His record is up there with the best players in the Premier League at the
moment. His ability to get into dangerous positions and finish off the
chances he gets is fantastic.
It is now time for the defensive players to do their job. They got a lot of
credit for the way they defended last year and they now need to bring that
into this season.
Looking ahead to the game on Saturday, if West Ham are focused they can come
away with a good result, but it will not be easy as West Brom are very
organised and efficient under Tony Pulis.
The thing that could work in West Ham's favour is that there is a lot going
on behind the scenes at West Brom and a lot of uncertainty surrounding the
manager.
There are a couple of disillusioned players after what has happened during
the summer and maybe this could work to West Ham's advantage. For once it
might help them not being at home.
I expect it to be a very tight match and if West Ham win it will be by the
odd goal.
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RETRO HAMMERS: VICTOR OBINNA AND PABLO BARRERA
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 16 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 2:22PM
TheWesTHamWay.co.uk
This article is written by Joe Difford @JoeDifford
With Michail Antonio's phenomenal start to the new season back in his
favoured attacking wide position, it seems fitting to look back at two past
wingers who played in the famous claret and blue for this week's Retro
Hammers column.
Our first former Hammer was lightening fast and unusually strong, like
Antonio, but sadly was part of Avram Grant's relegated side.
Victor Obinna only spent one year on loan for West Ham United, but caught
the eye courtesy of his powerful runs and ambitious shots from distance.
His best moment in claret and blue came when he netted a hat trick in an FA
Cup clash with Nottingham Forest. His worst, being sent off in our first leg
of the semi final of the League Cup, when the Nigerian kicked Seb Larsson in
an area no man wants to be kicked.
The loan deal came with an option to buy from his parent club Inter Milan,
but despite Jose Mourinho stating that he was one of the best talents for
the future, he left after the single year in East London.
Obinna was fortunate before joining the Hammers to survive a car crash, with
the vehicle flipping several times, but the winger luckily suffered no
serious injuries, and did a backflip celebration himself when he netted in
the League Cup at the Boleyn Ground.
Since 2014, Obinna has only played a handful of times, despite being a
highly sought after player before his move to West Ham.
Another winger who failed to thrive under Avram Grant was Mexican
international, Pablo Barrera. If you remember the name, it probably conjures
up images of him sprinting down the wing and whipping in perfect crosses in
his bright yellow boots. But of course, this never happened.
Barrera was tipped to be a great success when he joined in 2010 for around
£4 million, but after a total of no goals and no assists in his debut
season, it was clear that this was not to be the case.
After an inevitable move away to Real Zaragoza, Barrera began to impress,
but as the season went on and managers changed, the former Hammer dropped
down the pecking order.
Barrera now plays his football at Mexican side UNAM, and joins Victor Obinna
on the list of former West Ham wingers who were expected to be great, but
failed to live up to expectations.
Let's hope that Antonio's Retro Hammer article in ten years will be far more
impressive.
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MARK NOBLE-A TRULY GREAT CAPTAIN!
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 16 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 11:32AM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This article is written by Luke Malden @LukeyMalden
As we approach the first season at our new exciting home, we should feel
really privileged with the number of leaders and the passion surrounding the
club. The club is in the best position it has ever been in, and we have to
put that down to the quality ownership of David Sullivan and David Gold
right through to the way Slaven has inspired our players. Julian Dicks
coming back instantly warmed the hearts of the fans, and him being around
means players know they will get it from him if they don't give 110%.
The real leader of this football club, though, is Mark Noble, who has come a
very long way in terms of maturity, ability and leadership. I remember
standing in the stands at Watford away in the Championship singing 'He's
only 17, he's better than Roy Keane, Mark Noble woahhh' as he nervously
smiled and applauded the fans, but you could tell he loved it. From then,
he's progressed as the real Mr West Ham and every fan could see he was going
to gain the most respect ahead of anyone at this club with the passion he
showed. From tears on the pitch to his farewell speech on the last night at
the Boleyn, the bloke's passion gives me real goose bumps. It really goes to
show how not only we have one of the best set of owners in the country, we
may just have one of the best captains also, certainly in comparison to our
previous captains.
I'm talking Lucas Neil and Matthew Upson, defenders who were on ridiculous
money at the time we had the wrong sort of leadership all around the club,
but you could tell the likes of Upson and Lucas Neil would take their money
and could leave with a bad result, whereas Noble is the type to put it right
in the next game and understands the fans' passion and frustration at a bad
result.
I thought it was quite brave of Upson to turn up at Noble's testimonial
after deserting the club he captained as soon as we got relegated; I found
that disrespectful, and it has stuck with me the way he was on a huge wage
and was happy just to clear off at the end of the 2010/2011 campaign in the
Premier League.
I believe Noble's been able to adapt and thrive in a captain's position,
through inspiration from the likes of Kevin Nolan and Scott Parker. Whatever
people may have to say about Kevin Nolan, despite his work rate being
questionable at times, his leadership and dedication were top class. His
working relationship with Sam Allardyce obviously helped him fit into the
role of being at an East End club with high expectations and he dealt with
the stick well. You could tell he cared. He'd pop up with goals, always
applaud the fans, lead the team, instruct the team and had the look about
him that said he wouldn't take any rubbish.
Before then, obviously Scott Parker was a quality captain, with his "never
say die" attitude and being a typical crowd pleaser, with only being a box
to box midfielder but being a goal scorer that would always put his neck on
the line. He became a complete fans' favourite, and despite joining our
rivals Tottenham, he still showed the passion for the club and could tell
the players around him looked up to him as being the "go to" man, another
iconic character for Noble to admire.
What players don't understand these days is there are so many little things
that they could be doing to put a smile on the faces of the fans, whether
that being throwing a shirt in the crowd at the end of a game or having a
laugh and a joke with the fans on Twitter. Fans warm to posts so easily on
social media these days and you can instantly become a fans favourite by
putting in 110% on the pitch, applauding the fans at the end of the game and
even thanking the fans publicly on social media. As well as that, having
humour helps; reverting back to social media and the video of Kouyate
singing 'we've got Payet' at the Player Awards: small things like that give
the fans something to have a laugh about and show the players who often
graft the most also have a humorous side that they want to express.
Noble you have to say has all of that in one; he has his dopey grim which
makes him look like he's up to no good playing pranks on players, but knows
when he steps foot on that pitch him and the 10 players in claret and blue
around him have to all do the same thing. He not only makes it easy for
players to settle around but being a West Ham boy himself, knows what
pleases the crowd, and it is simply putting in 150%. I truly believe Noble
is one of the reasons Payet does so well for us and we should really cherish
and be thankful for the position we are now in, with the best owners in the
land, Super Slav and Noble as captain… They all know what the fans want.
COYI
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Arbeloa set for Stanley debut
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 16th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's latest recruit should be fit enough to make his debut
against Accrington Stanley, says club doc Stijn Vandenbroucke. Alvaro
Arbeloa was confirmed as United's final arrival of the summer transfer
window a mere matter of hours ahead of the transfer deadline last month. And
the former Spanish international - who only played a handful of first team
matches for Real Madrid last season - has been hard at work as he battles to
regain match fitness. "Alvaro is working very hard on the training pitch,
having arrived with us in a good physical condition," Vandenbroucke told
whufc.com. "If all goes to plan, he will be available to play some part in
the EFL Cup against Accrington Stanley next week."
However definitely unavailable for that game are strike duo Andy Carroll and
forgotten man Diafra Sakho. "Andy had a good week during which he has made
good progress," added Vandenbroucke. "He is working hard, but it will take
time before he is ready to return to action. "Diafra is also progressing. He
has been running up and down the stairs at the London Stadium and skipping
as he continues to build up his fitness. He's now ready to take the next
stage by increasing his training." Vandenbroucke also revealed that club
captain Mark Noble received "eight stitches in his left hand after a Watford
player trod on it" following last weekend's 4-2 home defeat, but expects to
be available for the trip to West Bromwich Albion this weekend.
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic tells star men to carry on entertaining -
provided there's purpose
13:35, 16 SEP 2016 UPDATED 13:36, 16 SEP 2016
BY DARREN LEWIS
The Hammers threw away a two-goal lead against Watford to lose 4-2 last
weekend, with Hornets skipper Troy Deeney critical of their flamboyance
The Mirror
Slaven Bilic has told his West Ham stars: 'Keep on entertaining'. The
Hammers boss backed his players despite criticism from Watford's Troy Deeney
who claimed last week that their overly-flamboyant display had inspired the
Hornets to come back from two goals down to win 4-2. Deeney had been
particularly stung by Dimitri Payet's decision to produce a rabona to set up
Michael Antonio's goal for 2-0. Defending his side's right to express
themselves, Bilic said: "[Deeney] is a great player and a very clever
player. It was smart to say that. But I didn't see that to be fair. "It
might look for some people like that because it was good for them because
they turned the game around. "It is a good story - 2-0, go to sleep and then
4-2. They woke up. "But I am here for more than a year now and I haven't
seen my players underestimate any team we have played so far, even Watford.
"We spoke before the game and knew we were facing a really good team, we
expected a tough game and we were right. It is just a clever statement from
Troy."
West Ham, still with just one win all season, travel to West Brom tomorrow
bidding to kick-start their campaign. Bilic maintained he'd still have no
issues with any of his players attempting rabonas in the right circumstances
at The Hawthorns. "It doesn't bother me if it ends with a goal or a good
pass." he said. "If you make [rabonas] without any benefit, sometimes it is
good for the confidence or the crowd, if there is no harm out of that. "It
would bother me if it was harming the team, not losing the ball, but slowing
your action, it would bother me slightly."
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West Ham need to focus on new battle at London Stadium - Trevor Sinclair
By Trevor Sinclair
BBC MOTD pundit and former West Ham winger
West Ham do not just have off-field issues to contend with since their move
to London Stadium - they have got problems on the pitch too. Injuries have
hit my old club hard, especially in attack and with the more creative
players in their squad, but there are other reasons Slaven Bilic's side are
struggling for form. Last weekend's 4-2 defeat by Watford was a good example
of their current issues. The Hammers started well then got a bit complacent
and stopped doing the basics - working hard for each other, allied with good
organisation - that helped them do so well last season.
West Ham 2-4 Watford: What happened to the Hammers?
If you compare their focus, discipline and the intensity of their play then,
to what we have seen from them so far in 2016-17, then it is no wonder their
performances and results have dropped off. Their only league win so far came
against Bournemouth, when they kind of fell over the line with a late winner
against 10 men. Against most other Premier League teams they would not have
got away with it, but fortunately for them they were up against another team
who looked a little bit undercooked early in the season. In every area of
attack and defence, West Ham are less effective so far than they were last
season, when they finished seventh. It is very early days but Bilic has a
lot of work to do to get them back to that level, and he has to do it
quickly. Looking at the fixture list, West Ham have got a run of games next
where you would expect them to pick up some points, especially at home.
West Ham's next five PL games
Things have to improve soon because the last thing they need in their first
season at their new ground is a situation where they are stuck near the
bottom of the table. The longer this bad start continues, the more it will
play on the minds of the players and the fans that their first season after
leaving Upton Park is going to be spent battling relegation, rather than
pushing for the top six again.
'New stadium brings added pressure'
I don't think the West Ham team is lacking ability-wise, or in terms of
physical fitness. It is mentally where they just do not seem to be at it so
far. Part of that can be put down to the stadium move. London Stadium is a
fantastic arena and a great platform for the players to express themselves,
but it also brings added pressure. Last season, Upton Park was a fortress
where the Hammers went 16 games unbeaten between August and April. It would
have been hard enough to repeat that even without having to adjust to life
at a new stadium, and it is understandable that they have not taken that
form with them. The trouble in the stands with standing, segregation and
stewarding has hardly helped because I know a fair few fans did not want to
move anyway, and they are even more unhappy now. When I played for West Ham,
we knew the Upton Park crowd would always try to lift us when we needed
them. But, for various reasons, the atmosphere at London Stadium is very
different at the moment, and that needs to change.
Does Payet have a hangover from Euro 2016?
On top of having to deal with their changed surroundings, the Hammers have
also been without their superstar - Dimitri Payet - for most of the new
season. Payet had only played 23 minutes out of a possible 630 in all
competitions before making his first start of the campaign against the
Hornets. Earlier in the summer there were rumours he was injured and, until
the transfer window closed, there was a bit of uncertainty about whether he
was staying or not. None of that helped matters. It feels like everyone was
waiting for him to come back into the team because, when he did, everything
would be OK. Despite his brilliant rabona assist at the weekend, obviously
things did not work out that way. Along with Hammers defenders James Collins
(with Wales) and Angelo Ogbonna (with Italy), Payet was involved in the
latter stages of Euro 2016, which I think is another factor here. Because of
the emotion and adulation surrounding the France team that he was a part of,
it would not surprise me if the summer is still affecting him in some way.
Jump media playerMedia player helpOut of media player. Press enter to return
or tab to continue. If so, I could understand it because I had a similar
situation when I was at West Ham and went to the 2002 World Cup with
England. I look back and think physically I was all right - I had not lost a
lot of fitness because I was even cycling to keep ticking over when I went
on holiday to the south of France after getting back from Japan and South
Korea. But mentally I was not ready and, when I came back, it took me two or
three months to really find my feet again. What happened to the Hammers that
season should be a warning too - we started really badly, winning only one
of our first eight games, and ended up being relegated with 42 points.
'Hammers need their team spirit and work ethic back'
It is a shame that a situation as significant as the one we saw in the
stands on Saturday was allowed to happen, but I think those off-field
problems can be resolved. A police presence and properly trained stewards
who understand a football crowd will make a big difference, and improving
the lines of communication between the supporters and the board would help a
lot too. Some fans will still be unhappy, of course, because they did not
want to leave Upton Park, but I do think the move is a positive one. The new
stadium is fabulous and they are very fortunate to get it. It has brought
something extra to the Premier League already. On the pitch, I am confident
Bilic can get his group of players back together again, in terms of their
team spirit and work ethic. They need to keep creating chances the way they
did against Watford but, as a team, they need to defend much better. I am
not just picking on the defence and goalkeeper there because that has to
start from the front with the centre-forward. Last season they made it
difficult for the opposition to break them down and did not concede many
goals but if everyone does not dig in and work hard then it becomes very
difficult. Too many players seem distracted at the moment, when they really
need to be focused on the new task in front of them. It is easy when you are
playing football with freedom, like this team did when things were going
well last year, but at the moment things are harder because they are in a
battle and they do not appear to be ready for it.
Trevor Sinclair was speaking to BBC Sport's Chris Bevan.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SAT, 17 SEPT 2016PREMIER LEAGUE
15:00
Venue: The Hawthorns
West Bromwich Albion v West Ham United
BBC.co.uk
TEAM NEWS
Deadline-day signing Hal Robson-Kanu could be included in the West Brom
squad for the first time. Midfielder James Morrison is close to a return
after a hamstring problem but the West Ham match may come too soon. West Ham
skipper Mark Noble is fit despite needing eight stitches in a hand injury
sustained last weekend. Andy Carroll is running again but remains sidelined,
along with Aaron Cresswell, Diafra Sakho, Alvaro Arbeloa and Andre Ayew.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Mark Scott: "The rubber-stamping of West Brom's takeover has put Tony Pulis'
future in the spotlight again. "He insists he doesn't expect much to change
under the new owner, but he could certainly do with things going in a
different direction on the pitch, as wins and goals continue to be in very
short supply. "Pulis would love West Ham to be as charitable at the back as
they were last week, with the Hammers going from the sublime to the
ridiculous against Watford. "Slaven Bilic is hopeful that capitulation will
be a turning point and is expecting a 'big response'. After losing three of
their opening four league games, he needs one."
Twitter: @Mark_Scott_
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Brom head coach Tony Pulis: "I don't think the new owners will change
too much from the way Jeremy (Peace) has run the football club. They've
bought into Jeremy's model....I think they are going to try to run it on
similar lines. "I'm pleased and the chairman and the new owner are pleased
to get the deal done. The way it drifted and moved, you get involved in it,
no question of a doubt. "So it's pleasing for everybody that we now know and
we can move on from here."
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic: "I don't think my players under-estimate any
team we have played so far. We were expecting a tough game against Watford
and were right. "We've had a good meeting and now I'm waiting for the
reaction tomorrow. Mistakes will happen but we have to defend better and
defend like we did last season."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
I think we might see a positive reaction from West Ham's players after they
collapsed from 2-0 up to lose 4-2 at home to Watford last week. The way that
game went was just bizarre and, after that, a point here would be a good
result for the Hammers.
Prediction: 1-1
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Brom are on a four-game winless league run against the Hammers (D2,
L2).
Seven of the last 11 league meetings have been drawn.
West Brom
West Brom have only won one of their last 13 Premier League matches (D5,
L7), scoring just six goals in the process.
Since Tony Pulis took charge in January 2015, West Brom have failed to score
in 21 Premier League matches - the joint-highest number among current clubs
in the division (level with Crystal Palace and Sunderland).
Salomon Rondon has scored three of West Brom's last four league goals.
West Ham
West Ham have lost five of their last seven Premier League games, including
three successive away fixtures.
They have scored in 17 consecutive league games, the longest current such
run in the division.
Michail Antonio has scored a league-high 10 headed goals since the start of
last season.
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-1 Probability of draw: 26%
Probability of home win: 24% Probability of away win: 50%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football
matches.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic refuses to blame London Stadium for West Ham's form
By Matthew Treadwell
Last Updated: 16/09/16 1:59pm
SSN
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is refusing to use the move to the London
Stadium and the subsequent crowd trouble for their slow start to the season.
The Hammers lost 4-2 at home to Watford last weekend, having taken a 2-0
lead in the match, while a 1-0 defeat against Astra Giurgiu at their new
home saw them knocked out of the Europa League. Crowd trouble during the
Watford game led to 10 supporters being ejected from the stadium, while the
club has called a meeting with fans to discuss recent problems with standing
in se ating areas and anti-social behaviour. But Bilic is not prepared to
use that as a mitigating factor for some poor performances that leave West
Ham just one place above the relegation places going into Saturday's game
away to West Brom. "I don't like excuses," he said. "I didn't notice [the
crowd problems] until I was told after the game and it didn't affect my
concentration during the game, so I'm sure that the players didn't notice
it. "That had nothing to do with the performance. Of course I would like
[the crowd trouble] to be sorted out. We are playing football for the fans.
"The fans are the most important for the club. We want them to feel good and
make them happy with our results and the club wants them to feel safe in our
stadium."
Bilic is also unwilling to blame the standard of defending by his team,
despite West Ham conceding seven goals min their last two matches. "[The
defending] wasn't good of course. It was a bit different than the game
against Bournemouth at the same stage last season," added Bilic. The fans
are the most important for the club. We want them to feel good and make them
happy with our results. Against Bournemouth it was more individual mistakes.
The conclusion was the same, you lose confidence as a team. Now, the
confidence is okay. "We are a team, we defend together and I'm happy with
that. We will work with that. It is very important to talk about it. "We
spoke about it before the Watford game. We've had a good meeting and now I'm
waiting for the reaction tomorrow. "Mistakes will happen but we have to
defend better and defend like we did last season."
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet rated above Barcelona forward Lionel Messi on list
of FIFA 17 top 10 free-kick takers
SAM LONG
Evening Standard
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet has been named as the Premier League's
best free-kick taker ahead of the release of FIFA 17. The France
international has struggled for fitness this season but has proven his worth
from dead ball situations regularly for Slaven Bilic's side. The
29-year-old's most memorable free kick was perhaps an effort against
Manchester United at Old Trafford, but fans of Les Bleus could be excused
for preferring the last-minute winner against Cameroon. Payet may sit at the
top of the tree in regards to English football but he is only fourth on the
overall list in the popular video game.
New York City midfielder Andrea Pirlo leads the way with the Italian's
exquisite technique showing no sign of faltering during the twilight years
of his career. Turkey international Hakan Calhanoglu is second while
Juventus midfielder Miralem Pjanic sits third. Lionel Messi, who is widely
regarded as the best player on the planet, has had to make do with sixth.
The Barcelona forward is unlikely to be languishing so low. Meanwhile,
Manchester United's Memphis Depay and Swansea talisman Gylfi Sigurdsson
complete the Premier League players to be included.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slaven Bilic rejects Troy Deeney claim that West Ham showboating sparked
Watford comeback
Watford came from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at Saturday last weekend
Troy Deeney claimed the Hammers were 'mugging them off' afterwards
Dimitri Payet set up Michail Antonio's second with a rabona cross
By ADAM SHERGOLD FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:53, 16 September 2016 | UPDATED: 12:53, 16 September 2016
Slaven Bilic has hit back at Troy Deeney's claims that Watford were inspired
in their comeback from two goals down last weekend because West Ham were
showboating. The Hornets stormed back to win 4-2 at the London Stadium, with
striker Deeney claiming afterwards that the Hammers were 'mugging them off.'
But Bilic, speaking ahead of West Ham's Saturday visit to West Bromwich
Albion, said Deeney's comments were just a 'clever statement' in the light
of a morale-boosting victory. Deeney made his remarks after Dimitri Payet
had set up West Ham's second goal, scored by Michail Antonio, with a rabona
cross, while Manuel Lanzini also tried to score with the same trick. The
Watford man said: 'As a player I thought they were trying to mug us off a
little bit. As a professional you cannot allow someone to do that to you.
'You see that in the playground with six and seven year olds and we are
grown men. There were some really harsh words said to each other and
everyone had that fire in their belly again.' But Bilic responded: 'Troy is
a great player and a very clever player. It was smart to say that. I didn't
see it like that to be fair.
'It might look like that for some people but he said it because it was good
for them because they turned the game around. It was a good story - 2-0 up
then go to sleep and then 4-2. They woke up. 'I am here more than a year now
and I didn't see my players underestimate any team we have played so far,
even Watford. 'We spoke before the game and knew we were facing a really
good team, we expected a tough game and we were right. It is just a clever
statement from Troy.' Despite an inconsistent start to the campaign, which
sees the Hammers in 17th place ahead of their visit to the Midlands with
just three points from four games, Bilic maintains his players have the
licence to entertain with tricks and skills - but only at the right moment.
He said: 'It doesn't bother me if it ends with a goal or a good pass, of
course. If you make them without any benefit, sometimes it is good for the
confidence or the crowd, if there is no harm out of that. 'But it would
bother me if it was harming the team; not losing the ball, but slowing your
action, it would bother me slightly.'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Brom vs West Ham: Team news, kick-off time, probable line-ups and stats
for the Premier League clash
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 13:08, 16 September 2016 | UPDATED: 13:11, 16 September 2016
Daily MailOnline
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League action, Sportsmail will be providing
you with all you need to know about every fixture, with team news,
provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information
you need for West Brom's game with West Ham...
West Brom vs West Ham (Hawthorns 15:00)
West Brom
Team news
Hal Robson-Kanu could be included in the West Brom squad for the first time
when West Ham visit The Hawthorns. The Wales international striker has been
building up his fitness since signing for the club at the end of last month
and he might make the bench against the Hammers. James Morrison is also
nearing a return from his hamstring problems but Saturday's match may come
too soon for the midfielder.
Provisional squad: Foster, Myhill, Dawson, Evans, Olsson, McAuley, Wilson,
Galloway, Yacob, Gardner, Fletcher, Field, McManaman, McClean, Morrison,
Phillips, Chadli, Rondon, Lambert, Berahino, Leko, Robson-Kanu
West Ham
Team news
The trip to West Brom may come too soon for West Ham defender Alvaro Arbeloa
to make his debut and he will most likely wait until next week's EFL Cup tie
against Accrington.
The former Real Madrid full-back, who signed on a free transfer on deadline
day, was expected to be in line for his first start of the campaign but
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic is set to stick with Sam Byram at right-back. Mark
Noble is available despite needing stitches for a hand injury suffered in
their 4-2 defeat against Watford. Diafra Sakho, Andre Ayew and Aaron
Cresswell are all making "good progress" as the trio edge closer to a return
to action. Simone Zaza should keep is place up-front.
Provisional squad: Adrian, Randolph, Byram, Masuaku, Collins, Reid, Ogbonna,
Oxford, Kouyate, Nordtveit, Obiang, Noble, Payet, Lanzini, Antonio,
Feghouli, Tore, Zaza, Fletcher, Calleri.
Key match stats (supplied by Opta)
- West Brom have picked up one win in their last 11 Premier League meetings
with the Hammers (D7 L3).
- West Ham have won their last two away league games against the Baggies –
they've never won three in succession there.
- In fact, the only team West Ham have beaten in three successive Premier
League away games are Fulham (2002-2005).
- Mark Noble scored twice in this exact fixture last April for the Hammers,
as West Ham won 3-0.
- Since Tony Pulis took charge, West Brom have failed to score in 21 Premier
League games – the joint-highest number among current clubs in the division
(level with Crystal Palace and Sunderland).
- The Baggies have won only one of their last 13 Premier League games (D5
L7), netting just six goals in that run.
- West Ham have scored in their last 17 league games – they last enjoyed a
longer scoring run in the top-flight back in December 1966, netting in 24
(they also scored in 17 in a row, ending in August 1986).
- Michail Antonio has scored four of West Ham's five league goals this
season.
- Since the start of last season Antonio has scored 10 headed goals in the
Premier League – more than any other player.
- Three of West Brom's last four Premier League goals have been scored by
Salomon Rondon.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, September 17
Friday, September 16
Daily WHUFC News - 16th September 2016
Have your say at the Supporters' Forum
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are planning a special forum on Tuesday 20 September to get
first-hand feedback on how the Club can give all supporters the best
possible matchday experience at London Stadium. Over recent weeks, the West
Ham Board have reviewed all the feedback and suggestions submitted to the
Club and are seeking to take action on all the points raised, but they are
also keen to hear directly from the Hammers faithful, and discuss the issues
with them. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home
and the inevitable settling in process, and we appreciate the support of
loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages.
Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in
which we can enhance the stadium experience. On a long-term basis, West Ham
are currently establishing a new format for the Supporters Advisory Board
for the 2016/17 season, designed to provide ongoing feedback from a
fully-representative sample of fans, and the Club are grateful for all those
supporters who have so far applied to take part. But in the interim, a
special Supporters' Forum will be held on Tuesday 20 September so that West
Ham Board members and other senior Club representatives have a chance to
hear face-to-face from the fans what is working well at London Stadium, and
where there is room for improvement. Invitations have already gone out to
every fan who formed part of the previous Supporters Advisory Board for the
2015/16 season, and to more than a thousand Founders who have so far
submitted feedback via our dedicated email service at
foundersfeedback@westhamunited.co.uk.
However, West Ham are keen to hear from the broadest possible cross-section
of the Club's support, so if you would like to register your interest in
attending, please email supporterservices@westhamunited.co.uk by 12 noon on
Friday 16 September, and tell us the question or issue that you want to
raise. As we are doing with the new Supporters Advisory Board, the Club will
ensure that this Forum features the widest range of experiences at London
Stadium, so we will select attendees from every different area in each
stand, and whose views and questions represent the full spectrum we have
received. If you apply to attend, you will be told by the end of Friday
afternoon whether your application is successful, but even if it is not, you
can rest assured that the issues you have raised will be discussed. Thank
you all again for your willingness to help the Club provide the best
possible matchday experience at London Stadium. The West Ham Board look
forward to seeing many of you and discussing your views and suggestions on
Tuesday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies earn first point of the season
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies 0-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
West Ham Ladies earned their first point of the season after a hard-fought
goalless draw against high flying C&K Basildon Ladies on Wednesday night.
The last meeting between the two sides ended with a flourish of red cards
after both teams finished the game with nine players, but there was to be no
repeat of bad behaviour as each side set out to let their football do the
talking under the lights at Purfleet. C&K Basildon Ladies dominated the
first half but could not find a way through the Hammers' well organised
defence, and in-form keeper Deger Zekai who made some excellent saves. She
first denied Rushen and before then foiling Sinclair, whose shot looked to
have crossed the line before Zekai scooped it away at full stretch.
West Ham rarely ventured into the opposition's half and were limited to long
hopeful balls to Whitney Locke. Sasha Kelly, Kat Clifton and skipper Karen
Ray worked tirelessly in midfield to keep Basildon Ladies at bay. The second
half saw C&K Basildon Ladies begin to run out of ideas and they were
restricted to long range efforts as the well-drilled West Ham defence stood
firm still. Katie Bottom, on her return from India, was a class act in the
centre of defence, aided and abetted by Hannah Wheeler. At the final
whistle, Basildon Ladies were left to rue their missed opportunities which
could have seen them top the league, while the West Ham Ladies celebrated as
one as if they had won. It was a victory of sorts; their first point on the
board. Manager James Marrs was full of praise for his players after the
match but still admitted there is work to do. "We are still couple of months
away from attaining the fitness levels we demand to play the pressing game,"
he said. "But we're heading in the right direction."
West Ham Ladies: Zekai, Bent, Simmons, Ray, Wheeler, Bottom, Mackie,
Clifton, Locke, Kelly, Burr.
Substitutes: Sumpter, Bennett, Wilson, Miller.
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E20 confirm Chris Allison CBE appointment
WHUFC.com
London Stadium landlords E20 today confirmed the appointment of Chris
Allison CBE to work with London Stadium partners to make sure that the
'safety and security of all those using the Stadium remains of the highest
quality'. An E20 Stadium LLP spokesperson said, "We have appointed Chris
Allison CBE, a former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner, to work
with the London Stadium partners, London Stadium 185, West Ham United, LLDC
and Newham Council to help make sure that the safety and security of all
those using the Stadium remains of the highest quality. "Chris is a hugely
experienced officer with unrivalled expertise in major event policing, who
is familiar with the London Stadium from his work as the London 2012
National Olympic Security Coordinator and security advisor to Rugby World
Cup 2015. Everyone involved is focused on working together to deliver a safe
and secure venue for all spectators in the months and years ahead".
A West Ham United spokesperson said, "We appreciate that E20 have recognised
and understand our concerns. We welcome the appointment of Chris Allison CBE
and the insight and experience he will bring."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kouyate - We want to push on in the league
WHUFC.com
Kouyate says team have learned from mistakes they made against Watford
The Senegal midfielder has a special message for Papa Souare
Kouyate hopes to achieve success for both club and country this season
Cheikhou Kouyate is adamant his team have learned from the mistakes they
made against Watford last weekend and hopes they can bounce straight back to
winning ways over West Brom.
Kouyate was bitterly disappointed to see his side throw away a two-goal lead
at London Stadium, but hopes it is a one-off and his team can re-produce the
form which saw them enjoy a memorable final year at the Boleyn Ground. West
Ham enjoyed one of their best away performances at the Hawthorns last season
when they came away with an emphatic 3-0 victory. And Kouyate sees no reason
why they cannot enjoy another repeat performance and get their season back
on track when they travel to the Midlands on Saturday. Kouyate said: "We
should have been able to take the three points from the Watford game. "We
were leading by two goals, we started really well and I think that we were
in control. "Then when we conceded the goal to take it to 2-1 and then so
quickly after that they got the equaliser. We went in at half-time with our
heads down slightly. "We tried to pick ourselves up in the second half, but
we were unable to do so and these are errors that we will learn from and
won't be committing again in future matches. "The most important thing for
us to do is to go and get the three points when we play West Brom. "We are
in real need of points now. So it doesn't matter if it is me or one of my
colleagues that scores, what will please us the most is for us to go and get
all three points and then push on in the league."
Kouyate has a special message for his Senegalese team-mate Pape Souare who
was airlifted to hospital following a crash on the M4 motorway. The Crystal
Palace defender is expected to make a full recovery following surgery and
Kouyate hopes he will come back even stronger. Kouyate added: "My message to
Pape is that he needs to stay strong. We are praying for him and hope that
he will come back stronger. "It won't be easy for him and he will need all
of our support during his recovery. As a fellow Senegalese player, captain
of the Senegalese side and a fellow Muslim, I will be behind him all the
way, as will our fellow members of the Senegalese squad."
Kouyate recently returned from another successful trip with Senegal and has
big hopes for both club and country this season. "It was a good
international break for our side and the qualifying process has gone very
well. We won six out of six and so, we are very happy with the 18 points.
"The most difficult thing for us now is the African Cup of Nations next
year, but for the national side, our objective has been achieved."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest
update - in association with Spire Roding Hospital...
Hello everyone,
It has been a calm week in the Treatment Room, with no fresh significant
injuries to deal with. Mark Noble was the only new face to visit us, but he
will be fit and available to face West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The
captain required eight stitches in his left hand after a Watford player trod
on it during last weekend's game. He was in some discomfort and pain during
the second half, but manfully continued to complete the game. Mark is a
tough lad and, after having an extra day of rest, he returned to training
wearing a protective brace and will be fine for Saturday's game.
Aaron Cresswell and Andre Ayew are both progressing very well and have both
been running this week as they continue their recoveries from a knee and
thigh injury respectively.
Andy Carroll had a good week, during which he has made good progress and is
also running on the pitch. It is four weeks since Andy was injured in the
UEFA Europa League tie with Astra in Romania. He is working hard, but it
will take time before he is ready to return to action.
Diafra Sakho is also progressing. He has been running up and down the stairs
at London Stadium and skipping as he continues to build up his fitness, and
is now ready to take the next stage by increasing his training.
Finally, Alvaro Arbeloa is working very hard on the training pitch, having
arrived with us in a good physical condition. If all goes to plan, he will
be available to play some part in the EFL Cup against Accrington Stanley
next week.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
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10 per cent off for Claret Members
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have experienced a fresh surge from Hammers fans wanting to
sign up as Claret Members and gain priority access to matches at London
Stadium.
On top of an ever-growing Waiting List for Season Tickets, which now exceeds
55,000 supporters, the number of Claret Members hit a new high this week,
with fans eager to play their part in West Ham's historic first season at
the Club's new home.
Claret Membership entitles Hammers fans to first priority when tickets for
home matches go on sale, and both West Ham's opening Premier League games at
London Stadium were sold out exclusively to Claret Members via a ballot
process.
To welcome all the new Claret Members who signed up this week, and reward
those who have done so previously, the Club are offering an exclusive ten
per cent discount on purchases in the Stadium Store on Wednesday 21
September, when the Hammers kick off their English Football League Cup
campaign under the lights against Accrington Stanley.
To redeem this offer, simply show your Claret Membership card at the
checkout when you visit on Wednesday. Claret Members should also keep an eye
out for an exclusive online retail discount which will be announced soon.
Membership is priced at just £40 for adults and £25 for under-16s, with
supporters already on the Season Ticket Priority List eligible for a £5
discount.
Become a Claret Member now!
As well as one-week priority on tickets for matches at our new Stadium,
Claret Membership also gives you a whole host of other benefits including
access to the ticket exchange and ticket ballots; discounts on booking fees
and official away coach travel; and more exclusive retail offers throughout
the season.
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JACK SULLIVAN WRITES EXCLUSIVELY: "THE CLUB WILL NOT REST UNTIL IT IS
SORTED!"
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 8:21PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This article is written Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Ex has been pestering me about doing an article for a while now. So I
thought this would be a good time to do it! This has been my first week
working at West Ham, and it has also been a very eventful week and weekend
for West Ham too. Sadly, eventful in the wrong way, not only the result but
the problems we had at the stadium, both of which I find unacceptable.
First I will start with the result, which I know Slaven was far from happy
about! He even told me he couldn't sleep. The team's performance was the
best I've seen until the 30 min mark past! We looked exciting, fast and
dominated the game. Watford were up against it but sadly we gave them a way
back in. The one thing in football I hate to see is when a team shoots
themselves in the foot, which we did for their second goal. From then on the
momentum was with Watford, and they got another two goals in second half!
From Christmas last year we have conceded too many goals, I think it almost
averaged out at two goals a game! I personally believe it was because
Antonio was at RB, however this may not be the case, the problem maybe
deeper! Maybe the team is not working hard enough or we need a midfielder to
sit, almost what Nordtveit did at his last club! I was at the training
ground today and Bilic was enforcing defending making them put in challenges
and defending as a unit. Which is maybe just what we need! I have full faith
that we can sort this with players like Ogbonna and Arbeloa still yet to
kick a ball this year for us. For me Ogbonna will make a big difference as I
see him as our best CB at the moment.
I honestly believe we will score goals for fun with the strength and depth
we have in all attacking positions! We were in the top four on goals scored
last year and I can't see why that will change. I still have massive faith
in the team and management staff, and know that the set up at the training
ground is second to none. Rush Green is perfect from the gym to the kit-men
to the pitches. I was with the player liaison officer today and he was out
until 21:00 last night, looking for homes/flats for new players. Everything
is right at the training ground and it's only a matter of time until we see
that on the pitch. It's really important we sort out the goal problems and
keep a few clean sheets, as if the opposition can't score they can't win!
Thankfully not letting in goals is an easier thing to get right then to try
and score them. Eg. Sam at Sunderland last year, he got it right in a few
weeks.
However, the issues at the stadium is something the club are working very
hard to get right. Whilst the vast majority of supporters are always
impeccably behaved any fans fighting their own is awful, and embarrassing!
At the end of the day we are a big family and we need to stick together. I
still am in the mind that our new home is fantastic for me, it's beautiful –
my view is better than expected and the facilities are outstanding! For me
it's like coming to a cup final every two weeks.
However, there has been a few problems and I'm not going to gloss over that.
The club issued a statement that has identified issues with the stewarding
and we have insisted that the operator deals with this, and I know the club
we will not rest until it's sorted. The club has also already moved some
people around the ground into more likeminded areas, and will see more
segregation in place between the home and away fans by the next game.
Moving to such a new and vast stadium was always going to have teething
problems but I promise you the club is dealing with them, rather than
moaning about them! We expect we have made a few mistakes however now is not
the time to sit about however it's much more important to act on them
At the end of the day, I am a supporter in a very privileged position and I
hope this gives you more of an inside view as to what has been going on
behind the scenes. I hope you can give the staff at West Ham time to sort
out the problems, and I know they will. I look foward to seeing you at West
Brom.
COYI
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HAPPINESS IS A STRANGE AND WONDERFUL THING
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 9:57PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
COME ON YOU IRON IMAC
This article is written by Apu Vyas @apuvyas
Happiness is a strange and wonderful thing. Of course it is relative, what
makes you happy now is different from what would have made you happy when
you were 5. But happiness as with most things, there is no black and white
and science is still learning how it relates to the brain. Surprisingly,
emotions such as guilt, shame and pride activate areas in the happiness part
of the brain. If you combine this with the need to take action, to do
anything when in a stressful situation (a remnant of the caveman's fight or
flight instinct), you understand more of the reason why pointing out other's
failures gives us satisfaction.
Want, need and desire, instant gratification. Would anybody disagree that
the modern football fan is a ball of constant knee-jerk reactions and
emotions? We win a game and we're off on a Champions League tour. Lose and
it is worse than hearing that a giant meteor is on track to finish us off
and of course, it is all the board's fault.
This article is about perspective and focusing on something else that
triggers the happiness and satisfaction areas of the brain. Ladies and
gentlemen, I give you my far from definitive list of reasons to BE GRATEFUL.
We exist. No I don't mean that in an existential Descartes way. We exist as
a real football club, badge aside, the same entity that we have supported
all of our lives. Our Icelandic owners brought about a WORLD recession. Our
debt was horrendous relative to our size and means as a football club. I
really don't care how the Davids made their money, they saved us.
Portsmouth, Luton, Wimbledon, the list goes on of clubs that have gone into
administration.
We have great owners. They have put money into the club. They support West
Ham. They engage and interact with us. They understand how the Premier
League is changing and we are on the threshold of being a massive club.
We have Bilic. He got so much right last year. He also got lots wrong,
however each time he took steps to correct the mistakes and imbalance. Do
you doubt that he will do the same this season?
I just don't think you understand. We've got Payet, one of the best players
on form in the world right now.
Squad depth. No seriously, this is a serious squad.
Goals will come. Lots of them. Have you ever heard a manager go into a
struggling club and say that he needs to get the team scoring? No, the
easier option is to plug the defence. We were 4th highest scorers last
season and we have increased our firepower! Let me say that again in case
you blinked whilst you were reading that; We were 4th highest scorers last
season and we have increased our firepower! In Bilic we trust.
Speaking of the squad, there is a lot of improvement to come. Some will
return from injury, others will improve their match fitness and still others
will adapt to the pace of the Premier League. You ain't seen nothin' yet.
We are in the Premier League. Tony Fernandes' QPR aren't. Massive clubs like
Newcastle and Villa aren't.
We have a 60,000 seater stadium. It is the most well connected stadium in
Europe! Views are great inside. The sound is amazing. Season ticket prices
are the cheapest in the Premier League. There is absolutely NOTHING to
suggest that the teething problems will not get ironed out.
We support West Ham. We are the underdogs, we have the passion, the
humour, the best fans, the best songs. We all have our reasons for
supporting the Hammers, but not a single one of us is a glory grabber. It is
our tribe, our family.
It really feels like we are taking the first steps on an unknown journey. It
shouldn't be an ordeal, it is an adventure, but that is 100% down to your
own perspective. To paraphrase Henry Ford:
If you think it's great or you think it is rubbish, you're probably right.
@apuvyas is happy to discuss positivity, West Ham or even cars and vans
which he'll do you a great deal on!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Police chief hired by OS operators
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 15th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Former Met Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison has been appointed to
oversee security at the Olympic Stadium. The news was confirmed this morning
by the stadium operators, who have been heavily criticised for their poor
handling of the arena's security since West Ham moved to Stratford.
Allison's appointment was announced via the stadium operator's Twitter
Channel. "Former Met Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison CBE has been
appointed to work with the safety and security team," read a tweet.
54-year-old Allison began his career in the Met during the mid-1980s as an
officer in Walthamstow. In 1996 he was promoted to Chief Inspector at
Hammersmith, where he was often invovled with the policing of Queens Park
Rangers matches. Four years later he became Divisional Commander at
Paddington, being pormoted to Chief Superintendent a year later. His speedy
rise through the ranks continued and with 12 months he had been made
Commander whilst also being named as Borough Commander for the City of
Westminster. In 2006 Allison was awarded the MBE for his work during the
2007 London bombings and in 2009 he moved up the career ladder once more
with an appointment as Assistant Commissioner with responsibility for
Central Operations, a role that included policing of the 2012 Olympics. In
2014 Allison officially retired from his latest role as Assistant
Commissioner for Olympic Legacy - a post described by colleagues as a
'non-role' - after allegedly falling out of favour with Met Police
Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe. His retirement arrived a year after he
was awarded the CBE in 2013 for "services to the security of the Olympics".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valancia was 'very, very happy' to get Everton offer
Date published: Thursday 15th September 2016 10:05
TeaTalk
Everton new boy Enner Valencia has explained why he snubbed Swansea to move
to Goodison Park on Deadline Day. Valencia completed a season-long loan move
from West Ham in a deal that gives Ronald Koeman's side the option of
singing the forward permanently for £14.5million. The 26-year-old appeared
al set to join Swansea before Everton registered their interest in the final
hours of the transfer window. Valencia says he was determined to link up
with Koeman as soon as heard of their Toffees' offer. "I had some options
but when I heard about Everton and saw the quality of the players, nobody
would say not to come here," Valencia said in quotes reported by the
Liverpool Echo. "It is a great opportunity to come here with great
team-mates and an excellent opportunity to have a great year in the Premier
League. "I got the news on the last day of the transfer market. I was very,
very happy with the news.
"I was talking with other teams but the best option was Everton. I am very
happy to be here. "This is a great club with excellent fans and I want to be
on pitch with my new team-mates.
"I have enjoyed training with my new team-mates, it's different to my last
team – it is a little bit harder." Valencia hopes Koeman uses him as a
striker, rather than on the wing.
He said: "The best performances of my career have come as a striker. "Last
year at West Ham I was used to playing as a winger which was difficult for
me because it is not the position I feel well in."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are planning a special forum on Tuesday 20 September to get
first-hand feedback on how the Club can give all supporters the best
possible matchday experience at London Stadium. Over recent weeks, the West
Ham Board have reviewed all the feedback and suggestions submitted to the
Club and are seeking to take action on all the points raised, but they are
also keen to hear directly from the Hammers faithful, and discuss the issues
with them. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home
and the inevitable settling in process, and we appreciate the support of
loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages.
Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in
which we can enhance the stadium experience. On a long-term basis, West Ham
are currently establishing a new format for the Supporters Advisory Board
for the 2016/17 season, designed to provide ongoing feedback from a
fully-representative sample of fans, and the Club are grateful for all those
supporters who have so far applied to take part. But in the interim, a
special Supporters' Forum will be held on Tuesday 20 September so that West
Ham Board members and other senior Club representatives have a chance to
hear face-to-face from the fans what is working well at London Stadium, and
where there is room for improvement. Invitations have already gone out to
every fan who formed part of the previous Supporters Advisory Board for the
2015/16 season, and to more than a thousand Founders who have so far
submitted feedback via our dedicated email service at
foundersfeedback@westhamunited.co.uk.
However, West Ham are keen to hear from the broadest possible cross-section
of the Club's support, so if you would like to register your interest in
attending, please email supporterservices@westhamunited.co.uk by 12 noon on
Friday 16 September, and tell us the question or issue that you want to
raise. As we are doing with the new Supporters Advisory Board, the Club will
ensure that this Forum features the widest range of experiences at London
Stadium, so we will select attendees from every different area in each
stand, and whose views and questions represent the full spectrum we have
received. If you apply to attend, you will be told by the end of Friday
afternoon whether your application is successful, but even if it is not, you
can rest assured that the issues you have raised will be discussed. Thank
you all again for your willingness to help the Club provide the best
possible matchday experience at London Stadium. The West Ham Board look
forward to seeing many of you and discussing your views and suggestions on
Tuesday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies earn first point of the season
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies 0-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
West Ham Ladies earned their first point of the season after a hard-fought
goalless draw against high flying C&K Basildon Ladies on Wednesday night.
The last meeting between the two sides ended with a flourish of red cards
after both teams finished the game with nine players, but there was to be no
repeat of bad behaviour as each side set out to let their football do the
talking under the lights at Purfleet. C&K Basildon Ladies dominated the
first half but could not find a way through the Hammers' well organised
defence, and in-form keeper Deger Zekai who made some excellent saves. She
first denied Rushen and before then foiling Sinclair, whose shot looked to
have crossed the line before Zekai scooped it away at full stretch.
West Ham rarely ventured into the opposition's half and were limited to long
hopeful balls to Whitney Locke. Sasha Kelly, Kat Clifton and skipper Karen
Ray worked tirelessly in midfield to keep Basildon Ladies at bay. The second
half saw C&K Basildon Ladies begin to run out of ideas and they were
restricted to long range efforts as the well-drilled West Ham defence stood
firm still. Katie Bottom, on her return from India, was a class act in the
centre of defence, aided and abetted by Hannah Wheeler. At the final
whistle, Basildon Ladies were left to rue their missed opportunities which
could have seen them top the league, while the West Ham Ladies celebrated as
one as if they had won. It was a victory of sorts; their first point on the
board. Manager James Marrs was full of praise for his players after the
match but still admitted there is work to do. "We are still couple of months
away from attaining the fitness levels we demand to play the pressing game,"
he said. "But we're heading in the right direction."
West Ham Ladies: Zekai, Bent, Simmons, Ray, Wheeler, Bottom, Mackie,
Clifton, Locke, Kelly, Burr.
Substitutes: Sumpter, Bennett, Wilson, Miller.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
E20 confirm Chris Allison CBE appointment
WHUFC.com
London Stadium landlords E20 today confirmed the appointment of Chris
Allison CBE to work with London Stadium partners to make sure that the
'safety and security of all those using the Stadium remains of the highest
quality'. An E20 Stadium LLP spokesperson said, "We have appointed Chris
Allison CBE, a former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner, to work
with the London Stadium partners, London Stadium 185, West Ham United, LLDC
and Newham Council to help make sure that the safety and security of all
those using the Stadium remains of the highest quality. "Chris is a hugely
experienced officer with unrivalled expertise in major event policing, who
is familiar with the London Stadium from his work as the London 2012
National Olympic Security Coordinator and security advisor to Rugby World
Cup 2015. Everyone involved is focused on working together to deliver a safe
and secure venue for all spectators in the months and years ahead".
A West Ham United spokesperson said, "We appreciate that E20 have recognised
and understand our concerns. We welcome the appointment of Chris Allison CBE
and the insight and experience he will bring."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kouyate - We want to push on in the league
WHUFC.com
Kouyate says team have learned from mistakes they made against Watford
The Senegal midfielder has a special message for Papa Souare
Kouyate hopes to achieve success for both club and country this season
Cheikhou Kouyate is adamant his team have learned from the mistakes they
made against Watford last weekend and hopes they can bounce straight back to
winning ways over West Brom.
Kouyate was bitterly disappointed to see his side throw away a two-goal lead
at London Stadium, but hopes it is a one-off and his team can re-produce the
form which saw them enjoy a memorable final year at the Boleyn Ground. West
Ham enjoyed one of their best away performances at the Hawthorns last season
when they came away with an emphatic 3-0 victory. And Kouyate sees no reason
why they cannot enjoy another repeat performance and get their season back
on track when they travel to the Midlands on Saturday. Kouyate said: "We
should have been able to take the three points from the Watford game. "We
were leading by two goals, we started really well and I think that we were
in control. "Then when we conceded the goal to take it to 2-1 and then so
quickly after that they got the equaliser. We went in at half-time with our
heads down slightly. "We tried to pick ourselves up in the second half, but
we were unable to do so and these are errors that we will learn from and
won't be committing again in future matches. "The most important thing for
us to do is to go and get the three points when we play West Brom. "We are
in real need of points now. So it doesn't matter if it is me or one of my
colleagues that scores, what will please us the most is for us to go and get
all three points and then push on in the league."
Kouyate has a special message for his Senegalese team-mate Pape Souare who
was airlifted to hospital following a crash on the M4 motorway. The Crystal
Palace defender is expected to make a full recovery following surgery and
Kouyate hopes he will come back even stronger. Kouyate added: "My message to
Pape is that he needs to stay strong. We are praying for him and hope that
he will come back stronger. "It won't be easy for him and he will need all
of our support during his recovery. As a fellow Senegalese player, captain
of the Senegalese side and a fellow Muslim, I will be behind him all the
way, as will our fellow members of the Senegalese squad."
Kouyate recently returned from another successful trip with Senegal and has
big hopes for both club and country this season. "It was a good
international break for our side and the qualifying process has gone very
well. We won six out of six and so, we are very happy with the 18 points.
"The most difficult thing for us now is the African Cup of Nations next
year, but for the national side, our objective has been achieved."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Treatment Room
WHUFC.com
Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke issues his latest
update - in association with Spire Roding Hospital...
Hello everyone,
It has been a calm week in the Treatment Room, with no fresh significant
injuries to deal with. Mark Noble was the only new face to visit us, but he
will be fit and available to face West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The
captain required eight stitches in his left hand after a Watford player trod
on it during last weekend's game. He was in some discomfort and pain during
the second half, but manfully continued to complete the game. Mark is a
tough lad and, after having an extra day of rest, he returned to training
wearing a protective brace and will be fine for Saturday's game.
Aaron Cresswell and Andre Ayew are both progressing very well and have both
been running this week as they continue their recoveries from a knee and
thigh injury respectively.
Andy Carroll had a good week, during which he has made good progress and is
also running on the pitch. It is four weeks since Andy was injured in the
UEFA Europa League tie with Astra in Romania. He is working hard, but it
will take time before he is ready to return to action.
Diafra Sakho is also progressing. He has been running up and down the stairs
at London Stadium and skipping as he continues to build up his fitness, and
is now ready to take the next stage by increasing his training.
Finally, Alvaro Arbeloa is working very hard on the training pitch, having
arrived with us in a good physical condition. If all goes to plan, he will
be available to play some part in the EFL Cup against Accrington Stanley
next week.
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Head of Medical and Sports Science
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
10 per cent off for Claret Members
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have experienced a fresh surge from Hammers fans wanting to
sign up as Claret Members and gain priority access to matches at London
Stadium.
On top of an ever-growing Waiting List for Season Tickets, which now exceeds
55,000 supporters, the number of Claret Members hit a new high this week,
with fans eager to play their part in West Ham's historic first season at
the Club's new home.
Claret Membership entitles Hammers fans to first priority when tickets for
home matches go on sale, and both West Ham's opening Premier League games at
London Stadium were sold out exclusively to Claret Members via a ballot
process.
To welcome all the new Claret Members who signed up this week, and reward
those who have done so previously, the Club are offering an exclusive ten
per cent discount on purchases in the Stadium Store on Wednesday 21
September, when the Hammers kick off their English Football League Cup
campaign under the lights against Accrington Stanley.
To redeem this offer, simply show your Claret Membership card at the
checkout when you visit on Wednesday. Claret Members should also keep an eye
out for an exclusive online retail discount which will be announced soon.
Membership is priced at just £40 for adults and £25 for under-16s, with
supporters already on the Season Ticket Priority List eligible for a £5
discount.
Become a Claret Member now!
As well as one-week priority on tickets for matches at our new Stadium,
Claret Membership also gives you a whole host of other benefits including
access to the ticket exchange and ticket ballots; discounts on booking fees
and official away coach travel; and more exclusive retail offers throughout
the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
JACK SULLIVAN WRITES EXCLUSIVELY: "THE CLUB WILL NOT REST UNTIL IT IS
SORTED!"
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 8:21PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This article is written Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Ex has been pestering me about doing an article for a while now. So I
thought this would be a good time to do it! This has been my first week
working at West Ham, and it has also been a very eventful week and weekend
for West Ham too. Sadly, eventful in the wrong way, not only the result but
the problems we had at the stadium, both of which I find unacceptable.
First I will start with the result, which I know Slaven was far from happy
about! He even told me he couldn't sleep. The team's performance was the
best I've seen until the 30 min mark past! We looked exciting, fast and
dominated the game. Watford were up against it but sadly we gave them a way
back in. The one thing in football I hate to see is when a team shoots
themselves in the foot, which we did for their second goal. From then on the
momentum was with Watford, and they got another two goals in second half!
From Christmas last year we have conceded too many goals, I think it almost
averaged out at two goals a game! I personally believe it was because
Antonio was at RB, however this may not be the case, the problem maybe
deeper! Maybe the team is not working hard enough or we need a midfielder to
sit, almost what Nordtveit did at his last club! I was at the training
ground today and Bilic was enforcing defending making them put in challenges
and defending as a unit. Which is maybe just what we need! I have full faith
that we can sort this with players like Ogbonna and Arbeloa still yet to
kick a ball this year for us. For me Ogbonna will make a big difference as I
see him as our best CB at the moment.
I honestly believe we will score goals for fun with the strength and depth
we have in all attacking positions! We were in the top four on goals scored
last year and I can't see why that will change. I still have massive faith
in the team and management staff, and know that the set up at the training
ground is second to none. Rush Green is perfect from the gym to the kit-men
to the pitches. I was with the player liaison officer today and he was out
until 21:00 last night, looking for homes/flats for new players. Everything
is right at the training ground and it's only a matter of time until we see
that on the pitch. It's really important we sort out the goal problems and
keep a few clean sheets, as if the opposition can't score they can't win!
Thankfully not letting in goals is an easier thing to get right then to try
and score them. Eg. Sam at Sunderland last year, he got it right in a few
weeks.
However, the issues at the stadium is something the club are working very
hard to get right. Whilst the vast majority of supporters are always
impeccably behaved any fans fighting their own is awful, and embarrassing!
At the end of the day we are a big family and we need to stick together. I
still am in the mind that our new home is fantastic for me, it's beautiful –
my view is better than expected and the facilities are outstanding! For me
it's like coming to a cup final every two weeks.
However, there has been a few problems and I'm not going to gloss over that.
The club issued a statement that has identified issues with the stewarding
and we have insisted that the operator deals with this, and I know the club
we will not rest until it's sorted. The club has also already moved some
people around the ground into more likeminded areas, and will see more
segregation in place between the home and away fans by the next game.
Moving to such a new and vast stadium was always going to have teething
problems but I promise you the club is dealing with them, rather than
moaning about them! We expect we have made a few mistakes however now is not
the time to sit about however it's much more important to act on them
At the end of the day, I am a supporter in a very privileged position and I
hope this gives you more of an inside view as to what has been going on
behind the scenes. I hope you can give the staff at West Ham time to sort
out the problems, and I know they will. I look foward to seeing you at West
Brom.
COYI
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
HAPPINESS IS A STRANGE AND WONDERFUL THING
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 15 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 9:57PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
COME ON YOU IRON IMAC
This article is written by Apu Vyas @apuvyas
Happiness is a strange and wonderful thing. Of course it is relative, what
makes you happy now is different from what would have made you happy when
you were 5. But happiness as with most things, there is no black and white
and science is still learning how it relates to the brain. Surprisingly,
emotions such as guilt, shame and pride activate areas in the happiness part
of the brain. If you combine this with the need to take action, to do
anything when in a stressful situation (a remnant of the caveman's fight or
flight instinct), you understand more of the reason why pointing out other's
failures gives us satisfaction.
Want, need and desire, instant gratification. Would anybody disagree that
the modern football fan is a ball of constant knee-jerk reactions and
emotions? We win a game and we're off on a Champions League tour. Lose and
it is worse than hearing that a giant meteor is on track to finish us off
and of course, it is all the board's fault.
This article is about perspective and focusing on something else that
triggers the happiness and satisfaction areas of the brain. Ladies and
gentlemen, I give you my far from definitive list of reasons to BE GRATEFUL.
We exist. No I don't mean that in an existential Descartes way. We exist as
a real football club, badge aside, the same entity that we have supported
all of our lives. Our Icelandic owners brought about a WORLD recession. Our
debt was horrendous relative to our size and means as a football club. I
really don't care how the Davids made their money, they saved us.
Portsmouth, Luton, Wimbledon, the list goes on of clubs that have gone into
administration.
We have great owners. They have put money into the club. They support West
Ham. They engage and interact with us. They understand how the Premier
League is changing and we are on the threshold of being a massive club.
We have Bilic. He got so much right last year. He also got lots wrong,
however each time he took steps to correct the mistakes and imbalance. Do
you doubt that he will do the same this season?
I just don't think you understand. We've got Payet, one of the best players
on form in the world right now.
Squad depth. No seriously, this is a serious squad.
Goals will come. Lots of them. Have you ever heard a manager go into a
struggling club and say that he needs to get the team scoring? No, the
easier option is to plug the defence. We were 4th highest scorers last
season and we have increased our firepower! Let me say that again in case
you blinked whilst you were reading that; We were 4th highest scorers last
season and we have increased our firepower! In Bilic we trust.
Speaking of the squad, there is a lot of improvement to come. Some will
return from injury, others will improve their match fitness and still others
will adapt to the pace of the Premier League. You ain't seen nothin' yet.
We are in the Premier League. Tony Fernandes' QPR aren't. Massive clubs like
Newcastle and Villa aren't.
We have a 60,000 seater stadium. It is the most well connected stadium in
Europe! Views are great inside. The sound is amazing. Season ticket prices
are the cheapest in the Premier League. There is absolutely NOTHING to
suggest that the teething problems will not get ironed out.
We support West Ham. We are the underdogs, we have the passion, the
humour, the best fans, the best songs. We all have our reasons for
supporting the Hammers, but not a single one of us is a glory grabber. It is
our tribe, our family.
It really feels like we are taking the first steps on an unknown journey. It
shouldn't be an ordeal, it is an adventure, but that is 100% down to your
own perspective. To paraphrase Henry Ford:
If you think it's great or you think it is rubbish, you're probably right.
@apuvyas is happy to discuss positivity, West Ham or even cars and vans
which he'll do you a great deal on!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Police chief hired by OS operators
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 15th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Former Met Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison has been appointed to
oversee security at the Olympic Stadium. The news was confirmed this morning
by the stadium operators, who have been heavily criticised for their poor
handling of the arena's security since West Ham moved to Stratford.
Allison's appointment was announced via the stadium operator's Twitter
Channel. "Former Met Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison CBE has been
appointed to work with the safety and security team," read a tweet.
54-year-old Allison began his career in the Met during the mid-1980s as an
officer in Walthamstow. In 1996 he was promoted to Chief Inspector at
Hammersmith, where he was often invovled with the policing of Queens Park
Rangers matches. Four years later he became Divisional Commander at
Paddington, being pormoted to Chief Superintendent a year later. His speedy
rise through the ranks continued and with 12 months he had been made
Commander whilst also being named as Borough Commander for the City of
Westminster. In 2006 Allison was awarded the MBE for his work during the
2007 London bombings and in 2009 he moved up the career ladder once more
with an appointment as Assistant Commissioner with responsibility for
Central Operations, a role that included policing of the 2012 Olympics. In
2014 Allison officially retired from his latest role as Assistant
Commissioner for Olympic Legacy - a post described by colleagues as a
'non-role' - after allegedly falling out of favour with Met Police
Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe. His retirement arrived a year after he
was awarded the CBE in 2013 for "services to the security of the Olympics".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Valancia was 'very, very happy' to get Everton offer
Date published: Thursday 15th September 2016 10:05
TeaTalk
Everton new boy Enner Valencia has explained why he snubbed Swansea to move
to Goodison Park on Deadline Day. Valencia completed a season-long loan move
from West Ham in a deal that gives Ronald Koeman's side the option of
singing the forward permanently for £14.5million. The 26-year-old appeared
al set to join Swansea before Everton registered their interest in the final
hours of the transfer window. Valencia says he was determined to link up
with Koeman as soon as heard of their Toffees' offer. "I had some options
but when I heard about Everton and saw the quality of the players, nobody
would say not to come here," Valencia said in quotes reported by the
Liverpool Echo. "It is a great opportunity to come here with great
team-mates and an excellent opportunity to have a great year in the Premier
League. "I got the news on the last day of the transfer market. I was very,
very happy with the news.
"I was talking with other teams but the best option was Everton. I am very
happy to be here. "This is a great club with excellent fans and I want to be
on pitch with my new team-mates.
"I have enjoyed training with my new team-mates, it's different to my last
team – it is a little bit harder." Valencia hopes Koeman uses him as a
striker, rather than on the wing.
He said: "The best performances of my career have come as a striker. "Last
year at West Ham I was used to playing as a winger which was difficult for
me because it is not the position I feel well in."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, September 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th September 2016
Nolan - I have every confidence in Slaven
WHUFC.com
Former captain Kevin Nolan made his first appearance to London Stadium last Saturday and despite the home defeat against Watford, he still believes there is enough quality in the squad to challenge for a European place and a major trophy this season. Nolan, who made 157 appearances during his four-year spell, relished the chance to meet up with his former team-mates once again and believes the likes of Andy Carroll and Mark Noble stand a great chance of following Michail Antonio into the England set-up this season....
To be honest I have been blown away by the new Stadium. It is absolutely fantastic. I had the privilege to walk around and it is an amazing venue. Hopefully the team can start putting a good run together and carry on the success they had last season. The boys will definitely enjoy performing on this big stage and show the qualities they have got. I saw all the planning that was taking place and to now see it come to fruition and look the way it is, they have got it spot on. Last year the team fell short at the final hurdle at the end of the season. This year the team needs to be looking at winning a trophy and finishing in the top seven. It will be a lot more difficult this season as Liverpool have recruited well, Manchester United and Chelsea have also signed good players. You have then got the likes of Tottenham, Arsenal so it will be a tough season.
But I have got every confidence in Slaven and the players he has brought into the Club. With the squad they have got, they can still have a great season and compete for a trophy.One of the biggest moves of the summer was keeping Dimitri Payet and he was massive to what they achieved last year. But it was also massive to keep Manuel Lanzini at the Club. Unfortunately we lost Andy Carroll who was flying through pre-season and Aaron Cresswell early on through injury. But these are exciting times and when you see the players we have got, I am really excited to see what they can produce this season. I don't want to say anything bad about the Football Association but we did really well for a number of years with a number of English players and only Scott Parker and Matthew Upson got a call-up to the England squad. A lot more of our English players should have been called up because they performed really well.
We have now got Andy Carroll, Mark Noble, Aaron Cresswell and obviously Michail Antonio received his first call-up last week. It is exciting times for those boys because if Nobes has another season like the one he produced last year and they will definitely have a chance of also breaking into the set-up under Sam. I am still actively looking to get back on the pitch. I am waiting for a call which will suit what I need. I am keeping myself fit and just need to get the ball back out and shouting at a few people!
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Club to hold meeting on Founders Feedback
WHUFC.com
As many West Ham fans will be aware, we are currently in the process of setting up a new format for our Supporter Advisory Board, as we enter into the next crucial phase of life at London Stadium. The SAB plays a crucial role in the communication between fans and the Club – which is why the Club have reached out to last season's Advisory Board as part of the effort to continue improving the matchday experience at London Stadium. A representative sample of SAB members who have attended home matches this season - along with a sample of fans who have contacted the Club via our dedicated Founders Feedback channel, will attend a supporters' meeting with the Club on Tuesday 20 September, to discuss their view on the matchday experience at London Stadium so far this season. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home and the inevitable settling in process and appreciate the support of loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages. Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in which we can enhance the stadium experience.
If you wish to enter the selection process and apply for a place on the 2016/17 season SAB, you can find out more here.
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Foundation deliver One Goal
WHUFC.com
As the Foundation's hectic summer programmes come to an end, it is time to look back upon the best summer ever, reflecting on those programmes which have run for the second year following successful implementation during 2015. One of those initiatives is One Goal, the country's biggest free holiday programme, delivered by West Ham United Foundation in partnership with L&Q Housing and eight other London clubs to provide sport and creative arts projects for young people across London. One Goal uses sports and creative arts to motivate young people to be physically active, make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy creative pursuits during the school holidays. Last year, One Goal engaged more than 8,000 young people across London aged 5-21. This year, the programme provided free snacks and drinks to all attendees to help combat holiday hunger and move London towards its aim of becoming a 'Zero Hunger City'. The success of the programme has been celebrated by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (pictured above with Senior Community Officer George Chukwuma and Senior Inclusion Officer Austin Hughes, who said: "London is world-renowned for its sport and culture. "As Mayor I'm committed to helping young people lead healthier, more active lifestyles, so I am really proud to see this successful partnership between some of the capital's biggest football clubs and a valued housing partner continue for another year. "I'm confident it will inspire even more young Londoners to get active and creative during their summer holidays."
This year, the West Ham United Foundation has delivered multi sports including basketball, table tennis and athletics, provided workshops such as alcohol awareness and given participants the opportunity to get hands-on with a reptile display. Sham Motin, Community Sports Manager at West Ham United Foundation, said: "The One Goal programme is an excellent opportunity to provide young people in our community with free holiday provision. "We are grateful to L&Q for making it possible for over 300 young people to attend the course over the holidays, giving them a chance to be healthier through sport and to attend exciting workshops that they otherwise wouldn't experience." Keep up to date with everything on offer from the West Ham United Foundation here, or follow us on Twitter @WHU_Foundation.
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Adrian - We're confident ahead of West Brom
WHUFC.com
Hammers goalkeeper Adrian insists the side can bounce back from their defeat to Watford to get the three points this weekend at West Brom
The stopper also explained the mix up between himself and James Collins during the game against the Hornets
And after receiving his first international call-up, the 29-year-old described the experience of being part of Spain's squad
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian insists that the Hammers can remain confident ahead of Saturday's clash against West Bromwich Albion despite last weekend's disappointing defeat to Watford.
The Hammers raced into a two-goal lead at London Stadium but their Hertfordshire opponents scored four without reply to travel home with three points in the bag.
And though Adrian said the players were left mightily frustrated with the result, he assured supporters that the side can perform better to win at the Hawthorns.
"I think West Brom away is a tough game for us, but if we look at ourselves and if we give 120 per cent like we did many times last season, we have a great chance to win," the 29-year-old said.
"We have some players back on the team and we are stronger than last season. We have won just one game from four but we have a great squad and we've signed some good players.
"In the last match against Watford, we played much, much better in the first half but in the second half we lost our composure. The Premier League is so difficult. You can lose the game in one second."
After Odion Ighalo got the Hornets back into the game following Michail Antonio's double, Troy Deeney equalised on the stroke of half time following a mix up between Adrian and defender James Collins.
After the incident, the stopper explained exactly what happened in the build up to the leveller.
"Sometimes with the crowd there it's hard to listen to communication between the players but with us, we were talking. James was going to leave the ball but running with Deeney in his back, at the last moment, he touched the ball.
"These things happen in football sometimes and we have to improve, also on my part in terms of communication.
"The manager after the match didn't need to say too much because everyone was already angry and frustrated with the result. We can do much better. We have to improve on the mistakes we made and keep working."
Despite the disappointing defeat, the Spaniard has enjoyed a terrific few weeks personally, receiving his first international call-up for Julen Lopetegui's side.
Though he was an unused substitute in both Spain's 2-0 friendly win over Belgium as well as their 8-0 thrashing of Liechtenstein in FIFA World Cup qualifying, Adrian enjoyed the experience of being part of the squad.
"It was a great moment for me to get called up for the Spanish national team," he continued. "It's my fourth season at West Ham so the team has played well with great performances and with the new Spanish manager they have, he's given me the confidence to be one of the three keepers in the squad.
"I just keep working and want to do my best to get more caps.
"I have worked a lot because when you play most of the games, you get more experience. The Premier League is, for me, the most competitive in the world. If you're a number one for your team you get more experience and grow up with the team."
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Hammers pair Facetime brave Jack
WHUFC.com
West Ham United stars Dimitri Payet and Sam Byram put a welcome smile on the face of courageous young Hammer Jack Howard.
Jack, who is battling kidney cancer for the second time in four years, has been given just weeks to live, but his family are hoping to raise £250,000 in a bid to fly him to the United States for pioneering treatment.
On Sunday, the Club donated £5,000 to help the 12-year-old to get the emergency treatment that could save his life – an amount which Joint-Chairman David Sullivan matched with a personal donation this week.
To help keep the young Season Ticket Holder's spirits up at this challenging time, Payet and Byram gave him a surprise Facetime call on Tuesday afternoon.
The Hammers pair answered questions and wished their young fan all the best, with the Hammer of the Year telling: "We wish you a good recovery and we hope to see you soon in London Stadium."
Jack's father Nick said previously that the NHS had done 'absolutely everything they can for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments'.
The family naturally want to explore all options, including pioneering treatment in the United States, but have been advised it could be in the region of £250,000, subject to an initial examination, while a £75,000 deposit is also required.
More than £70,000 has been raised towards the family's target.
Jack's aunt Keely Howard, who set up a crowdfunding page to collate donations from family, friends and others, said, "We want to be ready to go straight away, there is no time to lose, every day, every week counts against us."
To donate to the fund to help Jack, click here. To help raise awareness of the brave young Hammer's cause, please use the hashtag #HelpJack on Twitter.
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PREVIEW: WEST HAM LADIES V C&K BASILDON LADIES
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 14 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 5:27PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is written by Alex Shilling
PREVIEW: West Ham Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies
Ship Lane, Thurrock FC, 14 September 2016, 7.45 kick off.
The Ladies take on Basildon tonight at Thurrock with every chance of getting their first win of the season in their first home WPL game of the campaign.
This local derby will see a couple of familiar faces return to West Ham and it is set to be a closely-fought encounter with both sets of players hungry for the points.
FORM:
The Irons put in a much-improved performance at Coventry on Sunday, losing by the single goal after a humbling by Spurs in the WPL Cup the previous weekend.
James Marrs' youthful side are still getting to grips with the division but put in battling performances at Coventry and Portsmouth and will be desperate to get their first points on the board tonight.
Basildon meanwhile have enjoyed a solid start to the season, easily brushing aside St Nicholas in the cup 10 days ago.
The Blues are sitting third in the WPL, with convincing victories over QPR and Portsmouth sandwiching a 6-0 defeat at a Charlton side many are tipping to win the division this season.
West Ham can move off the foot of the table by avoiding defeat tonight, while their Essex neighbours can go top with the same result if other results go their way.
TEAM NEWS: Former Hammers Stacey Little and Nikita Runnacles are in line for returns to their former club this evening, while Aditi Chauhan could make her first start of the season after sitting out the cup defeat to Spurs.
Defender Katie Bottom could also feature after returning from a two-week coaching course in India.
The Academy graduate will be keen to add to her tally this season, with some at the club suggesting her talents could be better used up front after a goal of the month contender at Lewes on the opening day!
DANGERWOMEN: The Irons will have to keep Sara Sinclair quiet if they are to emerge victorious this evening – the Basildon forward bagged a hat trick in her side's 4-0 win over QPR the other weekend and is always a threat in the final third.
The visitors meanwhile will have to stop Whitney Locke to win the game – powerful, pacy and with an eye for goal, the midfielder has the potential to cause any defence problems.
Tickets for tonight are priced at just £5 for adults and £1 for kids, so forget about the Champions League – get yourself down Ship Lane and come and see some real football!
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Fire Brady? They should give her a statue!
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Earlier today KUMB carried a story in which some Hammers fans called for the resignation of vice-chair Karren Brady following the club's move to E20.
And that prompted a number of angry Brady supporters to hit back, with one suggesting that the club should consider erecting a permanent effigy of the Baroness!
"Blaming Lady Brady for any of the current shortfalls in the new stadium is senseless," wrote KUMB member Grandad Hammer. "This is not our stadium, we simply rent it - the responsibility for the teething problems is with the landlord.
"She was an integral part of the team that negotiated the most incredible deal on behalf of the club. Don't believe me? Read what Alan Sugar has to say on the subject. A taxi for Karren? No, a statue would be far more appropriate."
High praise indeed, and words that were echoed by fellow Forum member ToiletDuck. "Brady is an amazing business woman," he said. "She must stay to oversee the change when anything happens to the two Daves.
"Is it her or the London Stadium management company that have arranged stewards, etc? Is it Karren Brady making everyone stand up or forcing people to fight? Not a chance! She knows how to run a club - look at Birmingham before and after her tenure! And look at us before and now."
Reaction to our earlier piece received both positive and negative replies via KUMB's social media channels, some of which you may read below...
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:) @kaz7289
@IaIanmac54 @kumbdotcom She has no say in how the stadium is run but was a massive part in us winning the bid with her connections.
3:50 PM - 14 Sep 2016
Retweets 2 2 likes
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Kezza ⚒ @KerryKezza1966
Just go ⚒ https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
4:48 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Trevor Dean @Mistermiggs
@kumbdotcom absolutely stupid. She's done more good for club than anybody. People need to drag themselves into 21st century. @karren_brady
3:02 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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STAN WHUFC @davestan64
Just give her a lifetime ban.... https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
3:43 PM - 14 Sep 2016
2 2 Retweets 6 6 likes
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Dilton @diltondiltond1
@JoshuaHearne @kumbdotcom you talking a load of rubbish! When going into a new Stadium there is always gonna be teething problems!
2:41 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Joshua @JoshuaHearne
@kumbdotcom She won't be but should be sacked.The "World Class" she describes everything is further from that! She has failed the "customer"
2:37 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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stuart barton @stuartabarton
@kumbdotcom I think it's time we all stuck together, Seeing WHU on tv each night for the wrong reasons saddens me, COYI one for all
2:45 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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We are West Ham, we are bigger than this - aren't we?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Paul Walker
I'm going to a football match on Saturday, and really, really looking forward to it. It probably won't figure highly on MOTD, but so what, I can't wait.
It's going to be played at one of those stadiums where the pitch is the same shape as the ground. (I know, it won't catch on.) And I'll be able to see the numbers on players' backs and even read their names.
I will stand and sing Bubbles to my heart's content, alongside the finest group of men, women and children you will find supporting any team in the world. Sold out.. 3,000. And there won't be a steward running towards me insisting I sit down.
Those fantastic people are our fans, my travelling companions. And they are probably looking forward to a weekend of football and not aggro in the seats.They might not all have been able to borrow the family brain cell for the afternoon, but it takes all sorts, they are pretty harmless even if they do throw beer about a bit too much (such a waste).
West Brom's away section will be rocking, lets hope that the West Ham we knew and loved last season turn up too!
But there will not be a hefty - very hefty - bloke in a hi-vis jacket wearing an orange baseball cap (you know who you are) throwing his weight about.
And guess what? I will certainly see a few of the local West Midlands plod (fine body of men and women) who will be close at hand, tolerant (well sometimes, this is the WMP, don't forget) and they will at least give a re-assuring feel to the proceedings.
You know, when I go to away grounds there always seems to be a couple of specially trained police walking around the bar downstairs, having a laugh, smiling, joking, chatting. Come on London Stadium CEO Linda Lennon, think about it. Even if they can't talk to each other on their Mickey Mouse phones!
Yes, I can't wait for the away trip to the Hawthorns. Smallish club, similar sort of stadium to the one we have just left, and they would probably consider that they were somewhat similar to us. Mid-table, going nowhere, but just happy to be in the top flight.
So now comes the devil's advocate bit. Take a look around everyone, is this what you want, do you really want to be like this fine upstanding Albion club for ever? Boing, boing, up and down we go!
They will never be a big club, never attract the best players. Never be in the Champions League. But we have been given that chance, I know there are countless problems and some pretty nasty stuff going on--and the stadium is nothing like what we were promised. World class, you must be joking.
But it's the only way we will ever be anything really special in terms of Europe and the outside world. Someone pointed out that Mark Noble has played over 350 games for us, and only about half-a-dozen have been in Europe. Says it all really.
So, through gritted teeth and against all my instincts, we have to show we are better than this, regardless of who thinks they own our club. We may have been "mugged off" as the phrase of the moment goes, but it's done now. There's no going back, let's move on. We are West Ham, aren't we? We should be bigger than all this.
The problem is I sense that so much of the off-field near anarchy at Stratford these days comes from a suffocating sense of resentment. That we have been dragged somewhere, kicking and screaming, that we don't want to be and who don't want us there.
We listened to all the PR from our owners, the hype and the, frankly, manipulation of almost everything. And we gave up, we knew it was not a fight we could win and we have gone with the flow to Stratford.
But the locals are not amused, are they. Stickers in pub window saying 'no football shirts' are not going to give an impression of an open-arm welcome, are they?
I found that out the first home league game when I asked a nice lady copper where the nearest toilet was as we forced our way out of Stratford station. She helpfully pointed one out just inside the Westfield entrance. Three large blokes all in black didn't think so, chased me into said loo and all but threw me out. Welcome to E20.
But I don't go to football to go shopping, I get enough of that at other times. If Westfield don't want us on the premises, so what. But it will be interesting the day that 3,000 Manchester United fans come sightseeing there. Can't wait for that one.
I go to football to support the club I have loved for close on 60 years, to be with mates, to have a wine or three. And a whine, yes, I can see that coming.
There has been such a nasty atmosphere at the London Stadium, you sense the one-cell brigade is bigger than I thought. Fighting each other. Are you sure? Frightening children? Spitting at women?
Take a look at yourselves people, just see what this looks like to the outside world.
Yes, there is plenty wrong with our new home. Let's face it, the view is crap, we are miles further from the pitch than I expected, but thankfully I am not in the posh, expensive seats on half-way where Slav has to run 30 yards to get to the touchline.
One of my good friends wrote something on the KUMB Forum this week saying the away end is in the wrong place because it encourages all away fans through Stratford station, and he is right. With a non-existent police presence and paper-weight, disinterested, rude, badly-trained stewards, I fear for the problems that will occur on the wide open spaces on the concourses inside and outside the stadium.
The security issues have been flagged up by countless fans from the very start, as a nightmare waiting to happen. But we are dealing with the local council, government quangos, and people who know nothing about football security at this level but still think they know best.
I wouldn't want to be dealing with councils and bureaucrats, I don't envy Karren Brady her job. The things you hear make you blink in disbelief. Like sending experienced former Boleyn stewards, probably all West Ham fans, to man car parks and lifts because if they were allowed inside the stadium they would watch the match. You mean like they did at the peaceful, well-run BML at the Boleyn? Sometimes you cannot make it up.
They say it's all about 'standing' fans. But it seems there were only seven complaints from 57,000 fans last weekend. There are far, far more pressing issues than that.
I have to say here, I have never encouraged or condoned standing. But it happens, and by thousands every weekend all over the country, and they are not treated like our fans are being. But that goes both ways, if someone behind you wants you to sit down, then just do it, for heaven's sake.
While we are on 'standing', I refuse to accept that it is right for a local authority to bully their tenants. Yes, I mean you Newham Council. There is no connection between 3,000 more seats being allocated and the grossly over-played so called dangers to safety from 'standing' fans.
We all now know it is not the law, but a civil matter. And that the regulation is a Premier League/Football League one. But that rule is surely unworkable, not fit for purpose because it is handled differently by virtually every licensing authority in the land.
Take a quick look around at TV. Arsenal fans all standing behind the goal at the Southampton match. Chelsea do the same next to the away section. Every set of away fans anywhere in the top two divisions are allowed to stand.
But our council are now flexing their muscles. They are in charge now, after 20 years of West Ham turning a blind eye. We have enforcement officers on the case, one Sheila Roberts (and please no grubby remarks about chains, handcuffs and basements please lads). She is also chair, I believe, of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Board, who hand out the safety certificates.
I suggest Newham take a look at how Manchester City Council handle this sort of thing. Manchester City have spent £60m extending the Etihad recently, and want to spent a similar amount at the other end of the stadium next summer to bring their attendance up to 61,000.
But City have standing, and have had for all the time since they moved from Maine Road. Our fans will have noticed when we were there last month that all the lower tier next to the away fans stand all the time.
Manchester Council would not even think of withholding a safety certificate because a few thousand stand each week. City bring millions into the local economy and their owners have regenerated rundown east Manchester for them.
At this point I must apologise to a few KUMB contributors, when I insisted recently that City own their ground now. They tried to buy it, but that's still pending. More investigation says they still pay a small rent with all the money going to sports facilities in the city. And Manchester City get a free hand to do what they like with the Etihad.
As I said, if the regulation cannot be enforced the same at every ground--home and away fans equally--then it should be scrapped. Unenforceable regulations and laws are worthless. But Newham seem to want to make a big statement here that you are not seeing anywhere else.
They should be hammering the owners for the poor stewarding, dreadful segregation, potentially dangerous concourses where fans can run from one section to the other. And those owners? Oh, yes, I forgot, they are Newham Council and the London Legacy Development Corp (LLDC). Silly me.
My advice is to give our owners their 3,000 extra seats (the other 6,000 are some way off even DG says) and work together making the stadium safer, to make it work, and to make people feel welcome.
I expect to be made welcome in the Black Country on Saturday; I did work there once, and understand the language. And I will find that excellent, massive pub that does curry for all with both sets of fans sitting together. I can't wait.
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Fans call for Brady's resignation over OS 'fiasco'
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have called upon vice chairman Karren Brady to resign in the wake of numerous problems that have marred the club's move from Upton Park to Stratford. Brady, who received a £1million bonus for winning the Olympic Stadium contract is being held responsible by supporters for the numerous issues that have blighted the club's opening games at the stadium. And now some have called for Brady - whose image was booed by fans last weekend when shown on the giant TV screens at the Olympic Stadium - to take responsibility for the problems by tendering her resignation. "Whoever outsourced contracts on things as important as health and safety and being in charge of the seating arrangements, and provided a migration policy that's caused fights, led to arrests and bans and has left kids crying and feeling scared, should bite the bullet and get the sack," wrote KUMB member Colours Don't Run.
"If Mannygate led to one of our staff being let go for what was a minor administrative error by comparison, I think this whole fiasco is also a sackable offence. I'm led to believe it's Lady Brady and if so, she should go."
Those thoughts were echoed by fellow KUMB member Wembley1966, who also believes Brady should fall on her sword. "She hasn't delivered the stadium in the manner that would have been expected and definitely not in the manner of the 'greatest stadium migration, ever!' he added. "Every day we are headlines in the papers, TV, radio and web for the things that she was tasked to deliver and hasn't. There's no contrition from her at all - just threats to ban anyone who causes problems that should never had the opportunity to arise in the first place."
However StaffordIron believes that firing Brady would be a step too far - although he maintained that at the very least, either she or the club should apologise to supporters for the manner in which the club's migration has been handled. "What I'd personally respect more than anything is for her and the club to come out and say 'actually we haven't handled this perfectly, there are some serious issues both safety-wise and logistically that we urgently need to fix'," he said.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet defends rabona against Watford
By Rory O'Callaghan
Last Updated: 14/09/16 12:40pm
SSN
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet has defended his audacious rabona assist against Watford. The French midfielder expertly set Michail Antonio up with the trick to hand West Ham a two-goal lead at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday. The Hornets, however, produced a remarkable comeback to win the match 4-2 and Watford captain Troy Deeney claimed his side were spurred on the belief that West Ham were trying to "mug" the visitors off. Payet has defended his decision to use rabona, claiming it was "instinctive" rather than an attempt to undermine Watford. "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," Payet told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course [I would use it]. Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
West Ham were soundly beaten by Walter Mazzarri's side at the weekend, thanks to goals from Deeney, Odion Ighalo, Etienne Capoue and Jose Holebas. Slaven Bilic's side had looked to be on course for a comfortable win when Antonio had scored twice early on, and Payet was willing to admit that the Hammers' second half performance was unacceptable. "Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two times," he said. "Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the second half, they managed to get another. "We lost this game and I think we didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it."
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West Ham star Dimitri Payet hits back at Troy Deeney after Watford skipper's 'rabona' showboating claim
16:44, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:45, 14 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
The Hammers midfielder has no regrets about his sensational cross which teed up their second goal but also fired up the Hornets
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet has hit back at Watford skipper Troy Deeney over his 'rabona' party piece and insisted: "I would do it again." Deeney claimed West Ham 's showboating fired up the Hornets and inspired their comeback from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at the London Stadium, saying: "They were trying to mug us off."
But Hammers playmaker Payet has no regrets about his sensational cross – football's equivalent of a snooker trick shot - which teed up Michail Antonio's second goal. The Frenchman said: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought it was the best thing to do at that moment and it worked. And when it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course I would do it again – but unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill you can use every time." Earlier, West Ham striker Manuel Lanzini had been less successful with a goal attempt from a rabona – and Payet accepts the Hammers need to focus on the basics in Saturday's trip to fellow strugglers West Brom. He admitted: "We need points, so we need to get our heads down and work hard. We will go there with the right attitude."
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West Ham target Carlos Bacca reveals why he rejected "very good" Hammers offer to remain at AC Milan
16:01, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:01, 14 SEP 2016
BY JACK RATHBORN
The Hammers reportedly agreed a £25million fee for the Colombian but Bacca opted to remain in Milan due to family reasons
The Mirror
West Ham heavily pursued Carlos Bacca but the AC Milan striker has revealed why he snubbed the Hammers and eventually ended up remaining with the Rossoneri.
The Colombian went cold on a move to the London Stadium, despite admitting West Ham's offer was "very good."
But the 30-year-old claims he rebuffed the offer due to concerns about problems his family may encounter in England without an EU passport.
"The offer of West Ham was very good I thought," Bacca told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser.
"I thought about my family, about how we would fit and problems that a South American soccer player can have in terms of the non-EU passport."
West Ham eventually shifted targets to Juventus' hit man Simone Zaza, who initially joined on loan with clauses that lend to the Azzurri international likely joining permanently next summer.
Meanwhile, Bacca has continued his success in Serie A with a hat-trick on the opening day of the season against Torino.
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Paolo Di Canio suspended after displaying 'dux' tattoo by Sky Italia
BBC.co.uk
Paolo di Canio has been suspended from his role as a Sky Italia pundit after showing on air a tattoo referring to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.
The ex-West Ham striker revealed his tattoo of the word "dux" during their Premier League coverage on Sunday, prompting a protest on social media.
The Latin word is the origin of the Italian "duce" meaning leader - Il Duce was the title adopted by Mussolini.
"We made a mistake, we are sorry to all who were hurt," said a Sky executive.
Jacques Raynaud, Sky Sports executive vice-president, continued: "After speaking at length to Di Canio, and despite his professionalism and his expertise regarding football, we have decided together to suspend the partnership."
Former West Ham striker Di Canio has previously been criticised for his political views and refused to address his reported beliefs when he was appointed Sunderland manager in 2013.
He was fined by Italian club Lazio for making the fascist salute for the third time in a year during the 2005 derby with AS Roma.
Mussolini was the fascist dictator of Italy for 20 years until 1943, and was summarily executed in 1945 when he was captured by Italian communists while attempting to flee the country.
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The curious case of Winston Reid: what has gone wrong with West Ham's star defender?
HITC
Damien Lucas
Amongst all the in-fighting and finger pointing at West Ham United after a terrible start to the season Winston Reid has escaped attention. When Slaven Bilic took over from Sam Allardyce the majority of West Ham fans felt their star defender Reid should replace the departing Kevin Nolan as the club's captain. At the time it was argued Reid was the only player in the Hammers side guaranteed to start every week. Instead that honour went to died-in-the-wool West Ham fan and midfielder Mark Noble and few can argue he hasn't done a good job after leading his side to their best ever Premier League points total in their emotional last season at Upton Park. But the East Londoners have got off to a terrible start this season.
Bilic's side have lost three of their opening four Premier League matches and scraped past Bournemouth in their solitary victory while also being embarrassingly dumped out of the Europa League by Romanian minnows Astra Giurgiu for the second season running. Fans at at each other's throats over standing at their new 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium home while Karren Brady - who spearheaded the club's move to Stratford - was allegedly spat at by her own supporters as things turned sour in a 4-2 home defeat to Watford last time out.
A toxic atmosphere is starting to fester at West Ham and fans are beginning to question some of Bilic's team selections and tactics. The likes of Sam Byram, James Collins, Manuel Lanzini and Adrian were criticised by supporters after the Watford debacle. And Bilic's continued use of Michail Antonio at right back is fast becoming his Achilles heel as a manager.
One player who has seemingly escaped any blame, though, is Reid - the man linked with some of Europe's top clubs before a long standing contract tussle ended in him signing a new six-year deal last year. If truth be told, Reid's form dipped last season and he has been a shadow of the player who formed the bedrock of West Ham's resurgence in recent years. Errors last season and rash tackles proved particularly costly - Chelsea and Manchester United away last season in the Premier League and FA Cup respectively. They were just two in a long line of examples, though, as the injury-prone New Zealander was in and out of the side for spells. Statistically Collins actually forged a much better centre back partnership with Italy international Angelo Ogbonna last season conceding a quarter of the goals the Hammers leaked with Reid in the side. It was glossed over by West Ham's superb season and the odd steady performance like including scoring the last ever goal at the Boleyn Ground in that thrilling 3-2 victory over Manchester United. This season Reid has continued to look out of sorts and is like a jittery bag of nerves every time he takes to the field. His awkward displays have been rubbing off on his teammates and he has shown no command of the back four. Consistently caught out of position for second balls the curious case of Reid is puzzling. Playing through injury? A change of tactics by Bilic? Or just a loss of form? Many supporters cannot understand why Ogbonna has been dropped but if recent performances are anything to go by it won't be long until he takes Reid's place in the starting line-up, even if it means Bilic tinkering with his defence yet again.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet speaks out on future ambitions
DIMITRI PAYET is desperate to inspire West Ham like he did last season.
By JACK STAPLEHURST
PUBLISHED: 05:20, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 08:11, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
The playmaker returned to the Hammers' starting line-up for the first time this season on Saturday. And, despite Payet's providing two assists, West Ham suffered on the whole in a shock 4-2 defeat to Watford. Fighting in the stands at the London Stadium added to the on-field problems too. However, talisman Payet is determined to help put points on the board for West Ham, who sit 17th after four games, and he is aiming to replicate last season's form. "Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season," Payet said. "I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both with my club and the national side. "The World Cup is still two years away so there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is going to come around very quickly." The 29-year-old's desire to stay in France's plans going forward is a strong motivation to continue starring at West Ham. Payet shone at Euro 2016 after a successful first season in east London, and a stunning Rabona to set up Michail Antonio at the weekend again highlighted his talent.
On the skill, he added: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course (I would do it again). Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
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DIMITRI PAYET RESPONDS TO TROY DEENEY COMMENTS ABOUT WEST HAM ARROGANCE
14th September, 2016, 1:37 PM
By Dominic Toner
Dimitri Payet has defended his use of the rabona assist in West Ham's 4-2 defeat to Watford last weekend. Hornets captain Troy Deeney made comments on Payet's eyecatching cross for the second Hammers goal after the match and said that West Ham's arrogance allowed them back into the game. Denney revealed that he appreciates the skill shown by Payet but thought it was wrong to be doing it with the game still in the balance. The Hammers had taken a two-goal lead thanks to a double from Michail Antonio which included a header from Payet's rabona cross, but Watford completed a remarkable turnaround to take the three points. Payet, 29, has said that the cross was an instinctive decision and defended the use of the rabona, which is when a player kicks the ball by wrapping one leg around their standing leg. It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," he told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Payet's undoubted talent saw him named as a PFA Player of the Year nominee last season and much of his game centres around his skill. The Frenchman has now returned to full fitness after recovering from his exploits with the hosts at Euro 2016. West Ham supporters have high expectations for the new season, with the move to the London Stadium completed, and are keen to follow up their seventh-placed finish lsat season. Slaven Bilic has been dealt with several injury blows at the start of the campaign and his side have already lost three games in their opening four Premier League matches. The return of Payet and Manuel Lanzini should provide an extra spark in the West Ham midfield and the pair will be focused on the next league match against West Brom. In other West Ham news, David Gold gave his verdict on Twitter to the club's defeat against Watford.
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Agent explains how West Ham missed out on top striker target in the summer
CARLOS BACCA's agent has opened up on West Ham's failed attempt to sign the AC Milan striker in the summer.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 13:25, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 13:42, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
West Ham made no secret of their desire to land a new striker, with Milan's Bacca high up on their wish list. The Hammers reportedly made a £25.7million offer but failed in their bid to bring the Colombia international to the London Stadium. Slaven Bilic instead brought in Andre Ayew in a club-record £20m deal from Swansea, along with Simone Zaza from Juventus and Deportivo Maldonado's Jonathan Calleri on loan. And Bacca's agent Sergio Barila claims there were a number of offers on the table in the closing stages of the transfer window, but Milan turned them all down. He told he told calciomercato.it: "West Ham? In the last week of the market, many offers arrived, and not only West Ham ones. At the end Milan said no."
Barila also claims that Bacca wanted to remain at Milan and is open to signing a new contract at the Serie A club The representative added: "Many requests arrived but Bacca's will has been always clear for me. He wanted to stay at Milan. His family is happy in Milan and this is an important thing. "Our will is to win with Milan in the coming years so we are open to a renewal, but we will talk about it later. Now our minds and concentration are only to the pitch."
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Sergio Agüero foul on Winston Reid 'brutal', rules independent commission
• Panel say Manchester City player endangered safety of West Ham opponent
• Striker remains banned for next two Premier League matches over incident
Guardian sport
Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.50 BST Last modified on Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.51 BST
An independent commission has ruled that the controverisal elbowing by Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero of West Ham's Winston Reid in a Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium last month was a "brutal" incident that "clearly endangered the safety" of the Hammers player. Aguero earned a three-game ban for the action, which happened in the August 28 meeting between the two clubs. He missed last weekend's Manchester derby and will also not be available for this month's domestic games against Bournemouth and Swansea. The incident was not seen at the time of the incident by referee Andre Marriner, or other match officials, but caught on video.
In written reasons published by the Football Association on Wednesday, the three-man commission, chaired by Stuart Ripley, agreed that Aguero had "thrown out his left arm in an aggressive manner that was excessive in force and brutal, which clearly endangered the safety of Mr Reid." The commission also noted "the clenched fist of Mr Aguero as he threw his left elbow towards Mr Reid, the upward angle of the movement and the force of the movement." In an email to the commission, referee Marriner stated he " … did not see the full extent of the incident and in particular where Sergio Aguero's hand had finished up in the challenge, which clearly catches Winston Reid in the throat region." Manchester City appealed against the ban but the commission were unanimous in their decision that the video evidence was conclusive. "The commission could not see anything 'truly exceptional' about the incident." said Mr Ripley. "The incident was simply a 'one v one' tussle for the ball, such that is seen many times during any football match, whereby one of the players had used excessive force and brutality against the other."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Former captain Kevin Nolan made his first appearance to London Stadium last Saturday and despite the home defeat against Watford, he still believes there is enough quality in the squad to challenge for a European place and a major trophy this season. Nolan, who made 157 appearances during his four-year spell, relished the chance to meet up with his former team-mates once again and believes the likes of Andy Carroll and Mark Noble stand a great chance of following Michail Antonio into the England set-up this season....
To be honest I have been blown away by the new Stadium. It is absolutely fantastic. I had the privilege to walk around and it is an amazing venue. Hopefully the team can start putting a good run together and carry on the success they had last season. The boys will definitely enjoy performing on this big stage and show the qualities they have got. I saw all the planning that was taking place and to now see it come to fruition and look the way it is, they have got it spot on. Last year the team fell short at the final hurdle at the end of the season. This year the team needs to be looking at winning a trophy and finishing in the top seven. It will be a lot more difficult this season as Liverpool have recruited well, Manchester United and Chelsea have also signed good players. You have then got the likes of Tottenham, Arsenal so it will be a tough season.
But I have got every confidence in Slaven and the players he has brought into the Club. With the squad they have got, they can still have a great season and compete for a trophy.One of the biggest moves of the summer was keeping Dimitri Payet and he was massive to what they achieved last year. But it was also massive to keep Manuel Lanzini at the Club. Unfortunately we lost Andy Carroll who was flying through pre-season and Aaron Cresswell early on through injury. But these are exciting times and when you see the players we have got, I am really excited to see what they can produce this season. I don't want to say anything bad about the Football Association but we did really well for a number of years with a number of English players and only Scott Parker and Matthew Upson got a call-up to the England squad. A lot more of our English players should have been called up because they performed really well.
We have now got Andy Carroll, Mark Noble, Aaron Cresswell and obviously Michail Antonio received his first call-up last week. It is exciting times for those boys because if Nobes has another season like the one he produced last year and they will definitely have a chance of also breaking into the set-up under Sam. I am still actively looking to get back on the pitch. I am waiting for a call which will suit what I need. I am keeping myself fit and just need to get the ball back out and shouting at a few people!
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Club to hold meeting on Founders Feedback
WHUFC.com
As many West Ham fans will be aware, we are currently in the process of setting up a new format for our Supporter Advisory Board, as we enter into the next crucial phase of life at London Stadium. The SAB plays a crucial role in the communication between fans and the Club – which is why the Club have reached out to last season's Advisory Board as part of the effort to continue improving the matchday experience at London Stadium. A representative sample of SAB members who have attended home matches this season - along with a sample of fans who have contacted the Club via our dedicated Founders Feedback channel, will attend a supporters' meeting with the Club on Tuesday 20 September, to discuss their view on the matchday experience at London Stadium so far this season. The Club acknowledge the magnitude of the move to our new home and the inevitable settling in process and appreciate the support of loyal Hammers fans for their help and patience in these early stages. Feedback from our supporters is vital in helping us to identify ways in which we can enhance the stadium experience.
If you wish to enter the selection process and apply for a place on the 2016/17 season SAB, you can find out more here.
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Foundation deliver One Goal
WHUFC.com
As the Foundation's hectic summer programmes come to an end, it is time to look back upon the best summer ever, reflecting on those programmes which have run for the second year following successful implementation during 2015. One of those initiatives is One Goal, the country's biggest free holiday programme, delivered by West Ham United Foundation in partnership with L&Q Housing and eight other London clubs to provide sport and creative arts projects for young people across London. One Goal uses sports and creative arts to motivate young people to be physically active, make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy creative pursuits during the school holidays. Last year, One Goal engaged more than 8,000 young people across London aged 5-21. This year, the programme provided free snacks and drinks to all attendees to help combat holiday hunger and move London towards its aim of becoming a 'Zero Hunger City'. The success of the programme has been celebrated by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (pictured above with Senior Community Officer George Chukwuma and Senior Inclusion Officer Austin Hughes, who said: "London is world-renowned for its sport and culture. "As Mayor I'm committed to helping young people lead healthier, more active lifestyles, so I am really proud to see this successful partnership between some of the capital's biggest football clubs and a valued housing partner continue for another year. "I'm confident it will inspire even more young Londoners to get active and creative during their summer holidays."
This year, the West Ham United Foundation has delivered multi sports including basketball, table tennis and athletics, provided workshops such as alcohol awareness and given participants the opportunity to get hands-on with a reptile display. Sham Motin, Community Sports Manager at West Ham United Foundation, said: "The One Goal programme is an excellent opportunity to provide young people in our community with free holiday provision. "We are grateful to L&Q for making it possible for over 300 young people to attend the course over the holidays, giving them a chance to be healthier through sport and to attend exciting workshops that they otherwise wouldn't experience." Keep up to date with everything on offer from the West Ham United Foundation here, or follow us on Twitter @WHU_Foundation.
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Adrian - We're confident ahead of West Brom
WHUFC.com
Hammers goalkeeper Adrian insists the side can bounce back from their defeat to Watford to get the three points this weekend at West Brom
The stopper also explained the mix up between himself and James Collins during the game against the Hornets
And after receiving his first international call-up, the 29-year-old described the experience of being part of Spain's squad
West Ham goalkeeper Adrian insists that the Hammers can remain confident ahead of Saturday's clash against West Bromwich Albion despite last weekend's disappointing defeat to Watford.
The Hammers raced into a two-goal lead at London Stadium but their Hertfordshire opponents scored four without reply to travel home with three points in the bag.
And though Adrian said the players were left mightily frustrated with the result, he assured supporters that the side can perform better to win at the Hawthorns.
"I think West Brom away is a tough game for us, but if we look at ourselves and if we give 120 per cent like we did many times last season, we have a great chance to win," the 29-year-old said.
"We have some players back on the team and we are stronger than last season. We have won just one game from four but we have a great squad and we've signed some good players.
"In the last match against Watford, we played much, much better in the first half but in the second half we lost our composure. The Premier League is so difficult. You can lose the game in one second."
After Odion Ighalo got the Hornets back into the game following Michail Antonio's double, Troy Deeney equalised on the stroke of half time following a mix up between Adrian and defender James Collins.
After the incident, the stopper explained exactly what happened in the build up to the leveller.
"Sometimes with the crowd there it's hard to listen to communication between the players but with us, we were talking. James was going to leave the ball but running with Deeney in his back, at the last moment, he touched the ball.
"These things happen in football sometimes and we have to improve, also on my part in terms of communication.
"The manager after the match didn't need to say too much because everyone was already angry and frustrated with the result. We can do much better. We have to improve on the mistakes we made and keep working."
Despite the disappointing defeat, the Spaniard has enjoyed a terrific few weeks personally, receiving his first international call-up for Julen Lopetegui's side.
Though he was an unused substitute in both Spain's 2-0 friendly win over Belgium as well as their 8-0 thrashing of Liechtenstein in FIFA World Cup qualifying, Adrian enjoyed the experience of being part of the squad.
"It was a great moment for me to get called up for the Spanish national team," he continued. "It's my fourth season at West Ham so the team has played well with great performances and with the new Spanish manager they have, he's given me the confidence to be one of the three keepers in the squad.
"I just keep working and want to do my best to get more caps.
"I have worked a lot because when you play most of the games, you get more experience. The Premier League is, for me, the most competitive in the world. If you're a number one for your team you get more experience and grow up with the team."
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Hammers pair Facetime brave Jack
WHUFC.com
West Ham United stars Dimitri Payet and Sam Byram put a welcome smile on the face of courageous young Hammer Jack Howard.
Jack, who is battling kidney cancer for the second time in four years, has been given just weeks to live, but his family are hoping to raise £250,000 in a bid to fly him to the United States for pioneering treatment.
On Sunday, the Club donated £5,000 to help the 12-year-old to get the emergency treatment that could save his life – an amount which Joint-Chairman David Sullivan matched with a personal donation this week.
To help keep the young Season Ticket Holder's spirits up at this challenging time, Payet and Byram gave him a surprise Facetime call on Tuesday afternoon.
The Hammers pair answered questions and wished their young fan all the best, with the Hammer of the Year telling: "We wish you a good recovery and we hope to see you soon in London Stadium."
Jack's father Nick said previously that the NHS had done 'absolutely everything they can for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments'.
The family naturally want to explore all options, including pioneering treatment in the United States, but have been advised it could be in the region of £250,000, subject to an initial examination, while a £75,000 deposit is also required.
More than £70,000 has been raised towards the family's target.
Jack's aunt Keely Howard, who set up a crowdfunding page to collate donations from family, friends and others, said, "We want to be ready to go straight away, there is no time to lose, every day, every week counts against us."
To donate to the fund to help Jack, click here. To help raise awareness of the brave young Hammer's cause, please use the hashtag #HelpJack on Twitter.
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PREVIEW: WEST HAM LADIES V C&K BASILDON LADIES
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 14 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 5:27PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
This is written by Alex Shilling
PREVIEW: West Ham Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies
Ship Lane, Thurrock FC, 14 September 2016, 7.45 kick off.
The Ladies take on Basildon tonight at Thurrock with every chance of getting their first win of the season in their first home WPL game of the campaign.
This local derby will see a couple of familiar faces return to West Ham and it is set to be a closely-fought encounter with both sets of players hungry for the points.
FORM:
The Irons put in a much-improved performance at Coventry on Sunday, losing by the single goal after a humbling by Spurs in the WPL Cup the previous weekend.
James Marrs' youthful side are still getting to grips with the division but put in battling performances at Coventry and Portsmouth and will be desperate to get their first points on the board tonight.
Basildon meanwhile have enjoyed a solid start to the season, easily brushing aside St Nicholas in the cup 10 days ago.
The Blues are sitting third in the WPL, with convincing victories over QPR and Portsmouth sandwiching a 6-0 defeat at a Charlton side many are tipping to win the division this season.
West Ham can move off the foot of the table by avoiding defeat tonight, while their Essex neighbours can go top with the same result if other results go their way.
TEAM NEWS: Former Hammers Stacey Little and Nikita Runnacles are in line for returns to their former club this evening, while Aditi Chauhan could make her first start of the season after sitting out the cup defeat to Spurs.
Defender Katie Bottom could also feature after returning from a two-week coaching course in India.
The Academy graduate will be keen to add to her tally this season, with some at the club suggesting her talents could be better used up front after a goal of the month contender at Lewes on the opening day!
DANGERWOMEN: The Irons will have to keep Sara Sinclair quiet if they are to emerge victorious this evening – the Basildon forward bagged a hat trick in her side's 4-0 win over QPR the other weekend and is always a threat in the final third.
The visitors meanwhile will have to stop Whitney Locke to win the game – powerful, pacy and with an eye for goal, the midfielder has the potential to cause any defence problems.
Tickets for tonight are priced at just £5 for adults and £1 for kids, so forget about the Champions League – get yourself down Ship Lane and come and see some real football!
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Fire Brady? They should give her a statue!
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Earlier today KUMB carried a story in which some Hammers fans called for the resignation of vice-chair Karren Brady following the club's move to E20.
And that prompted a number of angry Brady supporters to hit back, with one suggesting that the club should consider erecting a permanent effigy of the Baroness!
"Blaming Lady Brady for any of the current shortfalls in the new stadium is senseless," wrote KUMB member Grandad Hammer. "This is not our stadium, we simply rent it - the responsibility for the teething problems is with the landlord.
"She was an integral part of the team that negotiated the most incredible deal on behalf of the club. Don't believe me? Read what Alan Sugar has to say on the subject. A taxi for Karren? No, a statue would be far more appropriate."
High praise indeed, and words that were echoed by fellow Forum member ToiletDuck. "Brady is an amazing business woman," he said. "She must stay to oversee the change when anything happens to the two Daves.
"Is it her or the London Stadium management company that have arranged stewards, etc? Is it Karren Brady making everyone stand up or forcing people to fight? Not a chance! She knows how to run a club - look at Birmingham before and after her tenure! And look at us before and now."
Reaction to our earlier piece received both positive and negative replies via KUMB's social media channels, some of which you may read below...
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:) @kaz7289
@IaIanmac54 @kumbdotcom She has no say in how the stadium is run but was a massive part in us winning the bid with her connections.
3:50 PM - 14 Sep 2016
Retweets 2 2 likes
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Kezza ⚒ @KerryKezza1966
Just go ⚒ https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
4:48 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Trevor Dean @Mistermiggs
@kumbdotcom absolutely stupid. She's done more good for club than anybody. People need to drag themselves into 21st century. @karren_brady
3:02 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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STAN WHUFC @davestan64
Just give her a lifetime ban.... https://twitter.com/kumbdotcom/status/776051198751305728 …
3:43 PM - 14 Sep 2016
2 2 Retweets 6 6 likes
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Dilton @diltondiltond1
@JoshuaHearne @kumbdotcom you talking a load of rubbish! When going into a new Stadium there is always gonna be teething problems!
2:41 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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Joshua @JoshuaHearne
@kumbdotcom She won't be but should be sacked.The "World Class" she describes everything is further from that! She has failed the "customer"
2:37 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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stuart barton @stuartabarton
@kumbdotcom I think it's time we all stuck together, Seeing WHU on tv each night for the wrong reasons saddens me, COYI one for all
2:45 PM - 14 Sep 2016
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We are West Ham, we are bigger than this - aren't we?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Paul Walker
I'm going to a football match on Saturday, and really, really looking forward to it. It probably won't figure highly on MOTD, but so what, I can't wait.
It's going to be played at one of those stadiums where the pitch is the same shape as the ground. (I know, it won't catch on.) And I'll be able to see the numbers on players' backs and even read their names.
I will stand and sing Bubbles to my heart's content, alongside the finest group of men, women and children you will find supporting any team in the world. Sold out.. 3,000. And there won't be a steward running towards me insisting I sit down.
Those fantastic people are our fans, my travelling companions. And they are probably looking forward to a weekend of football and not aggro in the seats.They might not all have been able to borrow the family brain cell for the afternoon, but it takes all sorts, they are pretty harmless even if they do throw beer about a bit too much (such a waste).
West Brom's away section will be rocking, lets hope that the West Ham we knew and loved last season turn up too!
But there will not be a hefty - very hefty - bloke in a hi-vis jacket wearing an orange baseball cap (you know who you are) throwing his weight about.
And guess what? I will certainly see a few of the local West Midlands plod (fine body of men and women) who will be close at hand, tolerant (well sometimes, this is the WMP, don't forget) and they will at least give a re-assuring feel to the proceedings.
You know, when I go to away grounds there always seems to be a couple of specially trained police walking around the bar downstairs, having a laugh, smiling, joking, chatting. Come on London Stadium CEO Linda Lennon, think about it. Even if they can't talk to each other on their Mickey Mouse phones!
Yes, I can't wait for the away trip to the Hawthorns. Smallish club, similar sort of stadium to the one we have just left, and they would probably consider that they were somewhat similar to us. Mid-table, going nowhere, but just happy to be in the top flight.
So now comes the devil's advocate bit. Take a look around everyone, is this what you want, do you really want to be like this fine upstanding Albion club for ever? Boing, boing, up and down we go!
They will never be a big club, never attract the best players. Never be in the Champions League. But we have been given that chance, I know there are countless problems and some pretty nasty stuff going on--and the stadium is nothing like what we were promised. World class, you must be joking.
But it's the only way we will ever be anything really special in terms of Europe and the outside world. Someone pointed out that Mark Noble has played over 350 games for us, and only about half-a-dozen have been in Europe. Says it all really.
So, through gritted teeth and against all my instincts, we have to show we are better than this, regardless of who thinks they own our club. We may have been "mugged off" as the phrase of the moment goes, but it's done now. There's no going back, let's move on. We are West Ham, aren't we? We should be bigger than all this.
The problem is I sense that so much of the off-field near anarchy at Stratford these days comes from a suffocating sense of resentment. That we have been dragged somewhere, kicking and screaming, that we don't want to be and who don't want us there.
We listened to all the PR from our owners, the hype and the, frankly, manipulation of almost everything. And we gave up, we knew it was not a fight we could win and we have gone with the flow to Stratford.
But the locals are not amused, are they. Stickers in pub window saying 'no football shirts' are not going to give an impression of an open-arm welcome, are they?
I found that out the first home league game when I asked a nice lady copper where the nearest toilet was as we forced our way out of Stratford station. She helpfully pointed one out just inside the Westfield entrance. Three large blokes all in black didn't think so, chased me into said loo and all but threw me out. Welcome to E20.
But I don't go to football to go shopping, I get enough of that at other times. If Westfield don't want us on the premises, so what. But it will be interesting the day that 3,000 Manchester United fans come sightseeing there. Can't wait for that one.
I go to football to support the club I have loved for close on 60 years, to be with mates, to have a wine or three. And a whine, yes, I can see that coming.
There has been such a nasty atmosphere at the London Stadium, you sense the one-cell brigade is bigger than I thought. Fighting each other. Are you sure? Frightening children? Spitting at women?
Take a look at yourselves people, just see what this looks like to the outside world.
Yes, there is plenty wrong with our new home. Let's face it, the view is crap, we are miles further from the pitch than I expected, but thankfully I am not in the posh, expensive seats on half-way where Slav has to run 30 yards to get to the touchline.
One of my good friends wrote something on the KUMB Forum this week saying the away end is in the wrong place because it encourages all away fans through Stratford station, and he is right. With a non-existent police presence and paper-weight, disinterested, rude, badly-trained stewards, I fear for the problems that will occur on the wide open spaces on the concourses inside and outside the stadium.
The security issues have been flagged up by countless fans from the very start, as a nightmare waiting to happen. But we are dealing with the local council, government quangos, and people who know nothing about football security at this level but still think they know best.
I wouldn't want to be dealing with councils and bureaucrats, I don't envy Karren Brady her job. The things you hear make you blink in disbelief. Like sending experienced former Boleyn stewards, probably all West Ham fans, to man car parks and lifts because if they were allowed inside the stadium they would watch the match. You mean like they did at the peaceful, well-run BML at the Boleyn? Sometimes you cannot make it up.
They say it's all about 'standing' fans. But it seems there were only seven complaints from 57,000 fans last weekend. There are far, far more pressing issues than that.
I have to say here, I have never encouraged or condoned standing. But it happens, and by thousands every weekend all over the country, and they are not treated like our fans are being. But that goes both ways, if someone behind you wants you to sit down, then just do it, for heaven's sake.
While we are on 'standing', I refuse to accept that it is right for a local authority to bully their tenants. Yes, I mean you Newham Council. There is no connection between 3,000 more seats being allocated and the grossly over-played so called dangers to safety from 'standing' fans.
We all now know it is not the law, but a civil matter. And that the regulation is a Premier League/Football League one. But that rule is surely unworkable, not fit for purpose because it is handled differently by virtually every licensing authority in the land.
Take a quick look around at TV. Arsenal fans all standing behind the goal at the Southampton match. Chelsea do the same next to the away section. Every set of away fans anywhere in the top two divisions are allowed to stand.
But our council are now flexing their muscles. They are in charge now, after 20 years of West Ham turning a blind eye. We have enforcement officers on the case, one Sheila Roberts (and please no grubby remarks about chains, handcuffs and basements please lads). She is also chair, I believe, of the London Stadium Safety Advisory Board, who hand out the safety certificates.
I suggest Newham take a look at how Manchester City Council handle this sort of thing. Manchester City have spent £60m extending the Etihad recently, and want to spent a similar amount at the other end of the stadium next summer to bring their attendance up to 61,000.
But City have standing, and have had for all the time since they moved from Maine Road. Our fans will have noticed when we were there last month that all the lower tier next to the away fans stand all the time.
Manchester Council would not even think of withholding a safety certificate because a few thousand stand each week. City bring millions into the local economy and their owners have regenerated rundown east Manchester for them.
At this point I must apologise to a few KUMB contributors, when I insisted recently that City own their ground now. They tried to buy it, but that's still pending. More investigation says they still pay a small rent with all the money going to sports facilities in the city. And Manchester City get a free hand to do what they like with the Etihad.
As I said, if the regulation cannot be enforced the same at every ground--home and away fans equally--then it should be scrapped. Unenforceable regulations and laws are worthless. But Newham seem to want to make a big statement here that you are not seeing anywhere else.
They should be hammering the owners for the poor stewarding, dreadful segregation, potentially dangerous concourses where fans can run from one section to the other. And those owners? Oh, yes, I forgot, they are Newham Council and the London Legacy Development Corp (LLDC). Silly me.
My advice is to give our owners their 3,000 extra seats (the other 6,000 are some way off even DG says) and work together making the stadium safer, to make it work, and to make people feel welcome.
I expect to be made welcome in the Black Country on Saturday; I did work there once, and understand the language. And I will find that excellent, massive pub that does curry for all with both sets of fans sitting together. I can't wait.
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Fans call for Brady's resignation over OS 'fiasco'
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 14th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham supporters have called upon vice chairman Karren Brady to resign in the wake of numerous problems that have marred the club's move from Upton Park to Stratford. Brady, who received a £1million bonus for winning the Olympic Stadium contract is being held responsible by supporters for the numerous issues that have blighted the club's opening games at the stadium. And now some have called for Brady - whose image was booed by fans last weekend when shown on the giant TV screens at the Olympic Stadium - to take responsibility for the problems by tendering her resignation. "Whoever outsourced contracts on things as important as health and safety and being in charge of the seating arrangements, and provided a migration policy that's caused fights, led to arrests and bans and has left kids crying and feeling scared, should bite the bullet and get the sack," wrote KUMB member Colours Don't Run.
"If Mannygate led to one of our staff being let go for what was a minor administrative error by comparison, I think this whole fiasco is also a sackable offence. I'm led to believe it's Lady Brady and if so, she should go."
Those thoughts were echoed by fellow KUMB member Wembley1966, who also believes Brady should fall on her sword. "She hasn't delivered the stadium in the manner that would have been expected and definitely not in the manner of the 'greatest stadium migration, ever!' he added. "Every day we are headlines in the papers, TV, radio and web for the things that she was tasked to deliver and hasn't. There's no contrition from her at all - just threats to ban anyone who causes problems that should never had the opportunity to arise in the first place."
However StaffordIron believes that firing Brady would be a step too far - although he maintained that at the very least, either she or the club should apologise to supporters for the manner in which the club's migration has been handled. "What I'd personally respect more than anything is for her and the club to come out and say 'actually we haven't handled this perfectly, there are some serious issues both safety-wise and logistically that we urgently need to fix'," he said.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet defends rabona against Watford
By Rory O'Callaghan
Last Updated: 14/09/16 12:40pm
SSN
West Ham midfielder Dimitri Payet has defended his audacious rabona assist against Watford. The French midfielder expertly set Michail Antonio up with the trick to hand West Ham a two-goal lead at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday. The Hornets, however, produced a remarkable comeback to win the match 4-2 and Watford captain Troy Deeney claimed his side were spurred on the belief that West Ham were trying to "mug" the visitors off. Payet has defended his decision to use rabona, claiming it was "instinctive" rather than an attempt to undermine Watford. "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," Payet told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course [I would use it]. Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
West Ham were soundly beaten by Walter Mazzarri's side at the weekend, thanks to goals from Deeney, Odion Ighalo, Etienne Capoue and Jose Holebas. Slaven Bilic's side had looked to be on course for a comfortable win when Antonio had scored twice early on, and Payet was willing to admit that the Hammers' second half performance was unacceptable. "Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two times," he said. "Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the second half, they managed to get another. "We lost this game and I think we didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it."
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West Ham star Dimitri Payet hits back at Troy Deeney after Watford skipper's 'rabona' showboating claim
16:44, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:45, 14 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
The Hammers midfielder has no regrets about his sensational cross which teed up their second goal but also fired up the Hornets
The Mirror
Dimitri Payet has hit back at Watford skipper Troy Deeney over his 'rabona' party piece and insisted: "I would do it again." Deeney claimed West Ham 's showboating fired up the Hornets and inspired their comeback from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at the London Stadium, saying: "They were trying to mug us off."
But Hammers playmaker Payet has no regrets about his sensational cross – football's equivalent of a snooker trick shot - which teed up Michail Antonio's second goal. The Frenchman said: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought it was the best thing to do at that moment and it worked. And when it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course I would do it again – but unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill you can use every time." Earlier, West Ham striker Manuel Lanzini had been less successful with a goal attempt from a rabona – and Payet accepts the Hammers need to focus on the basics in Saturday's trip to fellow strugglers West Brom. He admitted: "We need points, so we need to get our heads down and work hard. We will go there with the right attitude."
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West Ham target Carlos Bacca reveals why he rejected "very good" Hammers offer to remain at AC Milan
16:01, 14 SEP 2016 UPDATED 16:01, 14 SEP 2016
BY JACK RATHBORN
The Hammers reportedly agreed a £25million fee for the Colombian but Bacca opted to remain in Milan due to family reasons
The Mirror
West Ham heavily pursued Carlos Bacca but the AC Milan striker has revealed why he snubbed the Hammers and eventually ended up remaining with the Rossoneri.
The Colombian went cold on a move to the London Stadium, despite admitting West Ham's offer was "very good."
But the 30-year-old claims he rebuffed the offer due to concerns about problems his family may encounter in England without an EU passport.
"The offer of West Ham was very good I thought," Bacca told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser.
"I thought about my family, about how we would fit and problems that a South American soccer player can have in terms of the non-EU passport."
West Ham eventually shifted targets to Juventus' hit man Simone Zaza, who initially joined on loan with clauses that lend to the Azzurri international likely joining permanently next summer.
Meanwhile, Bacca has continued his success in Serie A with a hat-trick on the opening day of the season against Torino.
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Paolo Di Canio suspended after displaying 'dux' tattoo by Sky Italia
BBC.co.uk
Paolo di Canio has been suspended from his role as a Sky Italia pundit after showing on air a tattoo referring to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.
The ex-West Ham striker revealed his tattoo of the word "dux" during their Premier League coverage on Sunday, prompting a protest on social media.
The Latin word is the origin of the Italian "duce" meaning leader - Il Duce was the title adopted by Mussolini.
"We made a mistake, we are sorry to all who were hurt," said a Sky executive.
Jacques Raynaud, Sky Sports executive vice-president, continued: "After speaking at length to Di Canio, and despite his professionalism and his expertise regarding football, we have decided together to suspend the partnership."
Former West Ham striker Di Canio has previously been criticised for his political views and refused to address his reported beliefs when he was appointed Sunderland manager in 2013.
He was fined by Italian club Lazio for making the fascist salute for the third time in a year during the 2005 derby with AS Roma.
Mussolini was the fascist dictator of Italy for 20 years until 1943, and was summarily executed in 1945 when he was captured by Italian communists while attempting to flee the country.
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The curious case of Winston Reid: what has gone wrong with West Ham's star defender?
HITC
Damien Lucas
Amongst all the in-fighting and finger pointing at West Ham United after a terrible start to the season Winston Reid has escaped attention. When Slaven Bilic took over from Sam Allardyce the majority of West Ham fans felt their star defender Reid should replace the departing Kevin Nolan as the club's captain. At the time it was argued Reid was the only player in the Hammers side guaranteed to start every week. Instead that honour went to died-in-the-wool West Ham fan and midfielder Mark Noble and few can argue he hasn't done a good job after leading his side to their best ever Premier League points total in their emotional last season at Upton Park. But the East Londoners have got off to a terrible start this season.
Bilic's side have lost three of their opening four Premier League matches and scraped past Bournemouth in their solitary victory while also being embarrassingly dumped out of the Europa League by Romanian minnows Astra Giurgiu for the second season running. Fans at at each other's throats over standing at their new 60,000 seater Olympic Stadium home while Karren Brady - who spearheaded the club's move to Stratford - was allegedly spat at by her own supporters as things turned sour in a 4-2 home defeat to Watford last time out.
A toxic atmosphere is starting to fester at West Ham and fans are beginning to question some of Bilic's team selections and tactics. The likes of Sam Byram, James Collins, Manuel Lanzini and Adrian were criticised by supporters after the Watford debacle. And Bilic's continued use of Michail Antonio at right back is fast becoming his Achilles heel as a manager.
One player who has seemingly escaped any blame, though, is Reid - the man linked with some of Europe's top clubs before a long standing contract tussle ended in him signing a new six-year deal last year. If truth be told, Reid's form dipped last season and he has been a shadow of the player who formed the bedrock of West Ham's resurgence in recent years. Errors last season and rash tackles proved particularly costly - Chelsea and Manchester United away last season in the Premier League and FA Cup respectively. They were just two in a long line of examples, though, as the injury-prone New Zealander was in and out of the side for spells. Statistically Collins actually forged a much better centre back partnership with Italy international Angelo Ogbonna last season conceding a quarter of the goals the Hammers leaked with Reid in the side. It was glossed over by West Ham's superb season and the odd steady performance like including scoring the last ever goal at the Boleyn Ground in that thrilling 3-2 victory over Manchester United. This season Reid has continued to look out of sorts and is like a jittery bag of nerves every time he takes to the field. His awkward displays have been rubbing off on his teammates and he has shown no command of the back four. Consistently caught out of position for second balls the curious case of Reid is puzzling. Playing through injury? A change of tactics by Bilic? Or just a loss of form? Many supporters cannot understand why Ogbonna has been dropped but if recent performances are anything to go by it won't be long until he takes Reid's place in the starting line-up, even if it means Bilic tinkering with his defence yet again.
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West Ham's Dimitri Payet speaks out on future ambitions
DIMITRI PAYET is desperate to inspire West Ham like he did last season.
By JACK STAPLEHURST
PUBLISHED: 05:20, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 08:11, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
The playmaker returned to the Hammers' starting line-up for the first time this season on Saturday. And, despite Payet's providing two assists, West Ham suffered on the whole in a shock 4-2 defeat to Watford. Fighting in the stands at the London Stadium added to the on-field problems too. However, talisman Payet is determined to help put points on the board for West Ham, who sit 17th after four games, and he is aiming to replicate last season's form. "Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season," Payet said. "I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both with my club and the national side. "The World Cup is still two years away so there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is going to come around very quickly." The 29-year-old's desire to stay in France's plans going forward is a strong motivation to continue starring at West Ham. Payet shone at Euro 2016 after a successful first season in east London, and a stunning Rabona to set up Michail Antonio at the weekend again highlighted his talent.
On the skill, he added: "It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive. "If it worked every time, then of course (I would do it again). Unfortunately, it is not a piece of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
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DIMITRI PAYET RESPONDS TO TROY DEENEY COMMENTS ABOUT WEST HAM ARROGANCE
14th September, 2016, 1:37 PM
By Dominic Toner
Dimitri Payet has defended his use of the rabona assist in West Ham's 4-2 defeat to Watford last weekend. Hornets captain Troy Deeney made comments on Payet's eyecatching cross for the second Hammers goal after the match and said that West Ham's arrogance allowed them back into the game. Denney revealed that he appreciates the skill shown by Payet but thought it was wrong to be doing it with the game still in the balance. The Hammers had taken a two-goal lead thanks to a double from Michail Antonio which included a header from Payet's rabona cross, but Watford completed a remarkable turnaround to take the three points. Payet, 29, has said that the cross was an instinctive decision and defended the use of the rabona, which is when a player kicks the ball by wrapping one leg around their standing leg. It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game," he told West Ham's website. "I thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Payet's undoubted talent saw him named as a PFA Player of the Year nominee last season and much of his game centres around his skill. The Frenchman has now returned to full fitness after recovering from his exploits with the hosts at Euro 2016. West Ham supporters have high expectations for the new season, with the move to the London Stadium completed, and are keen to follow up their seventh-placed finish lsat season. Slaven Bilic has been dealt with several injury blows at the start of the campaign and his side have already lost three games in their opening four Premier League matches. The return of Payet and Manuel Lanzini should provide an extra spark in the West Ham midfield and the pair will be focused on the next league match against West Brom. In other West Ham news, David Gold gave his verdict on Twitter to the club's defeat against Watford.
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Agent explains how West Ham missed out on top striker target in the summer
CARLOS BACCA's agent has opened up on West Ham's failed attempt to sign the AC Milan striker in the summer.
By DAVID WRIGHT
PUBLISHED: 13:25, Wed, Sep 14, 2016 | UPDATED: 13:42, Wed, Sep 14, 2016
Express.co.uk
West Ham made no secret of their desire to land a new striker, with Milan's Bacca high up on their wish list. The Hammers reportedly made a £25.7million offer but failed in their bid to bring the Colombia international to the London Stadium. Slaven Bilic instead brought in Andre Ayew in a club-record £20m deal from Swansea, along with Simone Zaza from Juventus and Deportivo Maldonado's Jonathan Calleri on loan. And Bacca's agent Sergio Barila claims there were a number of offers on the table in the closing stages of the transfer window, but Milan turned them all down. He told he told calciomercato.it: "West Ham? In the last week of the market, many offers arrived, and not only West Ham ones. At the end Milan said no."
Barila also claims that Bacca wanted to remain at Milan and is open to signing a new contract at the Serie A club The representative added: "Many requests arrived but Bacca's will has been always clear for me. He wanted to stay at Milan. His family is happy in Milan and this is an important thing. "Our will is to win with Milan in the coming years so we are open to a renewal, but we will talk about it later. Now our minds and concentration are only to the pitch."
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Sergio Agüero foul on Winston Reid 'brutal', rules independent commission
• Panel say Manchester City player endangered safety of West Ham opponent
• Striker remains banned for next two Premier League matches over incident
Guardian sport
Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.50 BST Last modified on Wednesday 14 September 2016 13.51 BST
An independent commission has ruled that the controverisal elbowing by Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero of West Ham's Winston Reid in a Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium last month was a "brutal" incident that "clearly endangered the safety" of the Hammers player. Aguero earned a three-game ban for the action, which happened in the August 28 meeting between the two clubs. He missed last weekend's Manchester derby and will also not be available for this month's domestic games against Bournemouth and Swansea. The incident was not seen at the time of the incident by referee Andre Marriner, or other match officials, but caught on video.
In written reasons published by the Football Association on Wednesday, the three-man commission, chaired by Stuart Ripley, agreed that Aguero had "thrown out his left arm in an aggressive manner that was excessive in force and brutal, which clearly endangered the safety of Mr Reid." The commission also noted "the clenched fist of Mr Aguero as he threw his left elbow towards Mr Reid, the upward angle of the movement and the force of the movement." In an email to the commission, referee Marriner stated he " … did not see the full extent of the incident and in particular where Sergio Aguero's hand had finished up in the challenge, which clearly catches Winston Reid in the throat region." Manchester City appealed against the ban but the commission were unanimous in their decision that the video evidence was conclusive. "The commission could not see anything 'truly exceptional' about the incident." said Mr Ripley. "The incident was simply a 'one v one' tussle for the ball, such that is seen many times during any football match, whereby one of the players had used excessive force and brutality against the other."
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