West Ham United unveil new 2017/18 Umbro Home kit
WHUFC.com
West Ham United and Umbro have unveiled the Club's eye-catching new Home Kit
for the forthcoming 2017/18 Premier League season.
Available to pre-order now in club stores and online here, supporters can
also take advantage of a special pre-order offer by getting 10% off all
2017/18 home shirts plus free UK mainland standard delivery.*
The claret and blue kit takes inspiration from the famous strip worn by
Billy Bonds and Trevor Brooking in the 1976 European Cup Winners' Cup final,
with both West Ham legends featuring in the video campaign for the new kit.
Including further contributions from Slaven Bilic and Mark Noble, as well as
historic voiceover from the late, great, Bobby Moore, the video illustrates
the significance of claret and blue to the identity of West Ham United, its
Thames Ironworks founders and the loyal, passionate and ever-present
supporters.
Pre-order the new home kit now by clicking here
"Everyone knows that West Ham United is claret and blue, it's who we are.
This season's kit is a really nice take on that theme and I think the Claret
and Blue Army will really like it," said Club captain Mark Noble.
"It's the material that is the most important for us players and when we
tried it on at the photoshoot the boys were all really impressed with how it
felt, and we are really looking forward to playing in it next season."
The shirt fronts and collar feature the popular chevron design worn by the
Hammers for the first time in their memorable meeting with Anderlecht and
throughout the late 1970s. The chevrons also take inspiration from West
Ham's famous crossed Hammers, as well as our London Stadium home, where the
iconic floodlights, giant cantilever roof and supporting infrastructure also
feature the same triangular shape.
The new 2017/18 home kitThe kit combines the rich history of both West Ham
United and Umbro with the optimism the Club and its Technical Partner share
for the future, and Hammer of the Year Michail Antonio is also a big fan.
"We know how much the fans love to see the new kit, it keeps them going over
the summer, and I think they will be proud to pull it on, just like we are
as players when we walk onto the pitch," he said.
"I really like the new design feature on the front, which represents the
crossed hammers that are a huge part of this club. It makes the shirt really
unique and it stands out for me as one of the best we have had since I
joined the Club."
The two-tone claret body is complemented by smart sky blue sleeves featuring
the famous running diamond on the shoulder, an iconic staple to Umbro
jerseys for decades. Years after its first introduction, the taping returns
as a visual statement, now incorporated into the body of the shirt using a
lightweight jacquard technology, removing weight and distraction for the
player.
Completing the look is a classic Union Jack motif, inspired by the original
Thames Ironworks shirt, on the upper reverse of the shirt, which is
constructed with great fit and bold styling at the heart of the design.
The white home shorts are tailored with stretch fabrics for maximum comfort
and freedom of movement, featuring contrasted diamonds down the side to
match the sleeves of the jersey.
Double-welt socks - reverting back to white - feature a claret and blue band
adorned with the double diamond to complete a kit that matches the modern
day footballer's high level of performance on the pitch.
The Hammers' new Home kit is available to pre-order now online from the
Official West Ham Store or in person at the Club's London Stadium, Lakeside
Thurrock and Liberty Romford stores.
The shirt is priced at £55 for Adult sizes and £45 for Junior sizes, with
all fans receiving a 10% discountand free delivery on all Home shirt
purchases.
Pre-ordered home kit will be delivered on Wednesday 12 July, whilst the away
kit, which was unveiled last month, is available in store and online now in
Men's, Women's, Junior and Infant sizes.
*Selected postcodes. Offer ends midnight 11 July 2017. Terms and conditions
apply.
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Noble welcomes 'all-round good fella' Zabaleta to West Ham
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble has welcomed the arrival of Pablo Zabaleta to West Ham United and
cannot wait to line-up alongside the Argentina international in claret and
blue. Former Manchester City man Zabaleta became the Hammers' first summer
signing when he arrived from Etihad Stadium last month, with Noble sure his
presence can only help to drive the team forward. Club captain Noble, whose
2016/17 season was ended early due to hernia surgery, has been working hard
on his rehab and is looking forward to the resumption of pre-season
training. "He's [Zabaleta] an all-round good fella," Noble said. "I've
spoken to him on text already and he's really keen to meet the lads in
pre-season. "I knew I had the hernias February time and me and the physios
took it on ourselves not to say anything until the club was safe. "It kept
getting worse and worse and I went to see the surgeon before the Spurs game
and he said 'it's urgent now, you need to have an operation.' "Then we beat
Spurs and were mathematically safe so it all worked out well."
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Reece Oxford joins German side Borussia Monchengladbach on loan
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that young defender Reece Oxford will join
German side Borussia Monchengladbach on loan for the duration of the 2017/18
season. The 18-year-old will begin his temporary spell with the Bundesliga
club on July 1. Hammers boss Slaven Bilic said: "This is a fantastic
opportunity for Reece to continue his development and experience top level
European football on a regular basis.
"He will play in a league which is very technical, which can only help him
immensely, and he will also learn a new culture and gain valuable life
experience. "We believe Reece has a very exciting and successful future here
at West Ham, and he now needs regular first team football to ensure his
progress continues. "We wish Reece all the very best in this adventure, and
look forward to welcoming him back to the Club at the end of the season."
Oxford made his senior Hammers debut as a 16-year-old against FC Lusitans in
the Europa League in July 2015, becoming the youngest first team player in
the club's history, and then made his Premier League bow just a month later,
starting in a 2-0 win at Arsenal on the opening day of the 2015/16 campaign.
He went on to make a further six league and two FA Cup appearances that
season and then appeared in the opening match at London Stadium, against NK
Domzale in the Europa League last August, before an ankle ligament injury
curtailed his progress in the early part of the season. After reaching full
fitness in January, Oxford joined Reading on loan until the end of the
season, making five appearances as the Royals headed towards the
Championship Play-Offs, ultimately losing out to Huddersfield Town at
Wembley in the final last month.
Oxford will report for pre-season training with Monchengladbach next month,
who finished ninth in the Bundesliga and competed in the UEFA Champions
League last season. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel and defender
Stephen Hendrie have both left the Club after terminating their contracts by
mutual consent. West Ham United wishes both players every success in their
future careers.
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"Help the team as much as I can"
www.borussia.de
Borussia have secured the services of Reece Oxford on a season-long loan
from West Ham. The 18-year-old speaks in an interview about his strengths on
the pitch, his new challenge at Borussia and his Jamaican heritage.
Welcome to Borussia, Reece. Tell us something about your first impressions
of the club.
Oxford: From my first impressions, it looks good. The stadium looks good,
people around the stadium seem to be welcoming, so hopefully I can just kick
on now and get to know the boys when I get into training next week.
You played for West Ham United, Reading, and now are taking a big step away
from home. Can you tell us, why Germany and why in particular Borussia?
Oxford: I think Borussia because I have seen the squad and I've seen them
play a few times and they play a few young players as well, so I think this
will be a great step for me away from the family and everyone. Hopefully I
can prove what I can be.
What do you know about Borussia?
Oxford: I don't think that Nordtveit knows that I've come here yet. I don't
know too much about the history but I know it is a good club. I watched the
Champions League game against Man City.
And you also watched Christensen and Thorgan Hazard, who have also played in
the Premier League? Both players made a big step in their careers, did you
follow their progress?
Oxford: I've seen Christensen play when he was at Chelsea. I think I played
against him when I was only about 15 in the U21s and he's a good player. He
did well here last year and the year before that, so hopefully I can follow
in his footsteps too and lead the team to some good wins and success.
What can the supporters expect from you? What are your strengths on the
pitch and where can you improve yourself?
Oxford: I think that I'm a good leader and that I can push the boys even
though I'm young. I'll give it my all in every game, so hopefully the team
can do that and we can just push on this season.
You were born in London but you have a Jamaican background. Is there
anything that is especially Jamaican?
Oxford: I've only been to Jamaica once but my grandpa is from Jamaica and my
mum from the Seychelles. It's a bit mixed but both of them are good
countries. They are paradise.
We all want to hear some German. Do you already know any German words?
Oxford: Guten Tag (laughs).
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West Ham's Reece Oxford one of England's 'best young defensive talents' -
Borussia Monchengladbach
VAISHALI BHARDWAJ
Evening Standard
Borussia Monchengladbach sporting director Max Eberl has expressed his
delight at signing West Ham's Reece Oxford on loan - hailing the 18-year-old
as one of England's "best young defensive talents". West Ham confirmed on
Wednesday that Oxford, 18, will spend next season on loan with the
Bundesliga side to give the defender the chance to play regularly and gain
experience of a "technical" league, according to Slaven Bilic.
Oxford enjoyed an impressive breakthrough under Bilic after being handed his
debut aged 16 against FC Lusitans in the Europa League in 2015 - becoming
the club's youngest first-team player in the process - before being given
his first Premier League start against Arsenal a month later. Injury at the
beginning of the 2016/17 campaign prevented him from playing a bigger role
for the Hammers last term but, after recovering from his ankle injury, he
spent the second half of the season on loan at Reading.
Monchengladbach have now capitalised on Oxford's lack of playing time in the
West Ham first team by signing him on a one-year loan deal, with sporting
director Eberl saying it has allowed the German side to recruit a "very
interesting player". "Reece Oxford has played for England at youth level and
is considered one of the country's best young defensive talents,"Eberl told
the club's website.
"This loan deal gives us the chance to add a very interesting player to our
squad. "On top of that, we've had good experience with signing young
Premier League players in the recent past."
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Mark Noble keen to see West Ham add to squad as he rehabs from hernia
surgery
By Andy Charles
Last Updated: 21/06/17 8:18am
SSN
Mark Noble is keen for West Ham to get active in the transfer market and add
more big names to their squad ahead of the 2017-18 season.
The Hammers have so far managed to add Manchester City defender Pablo
Zabaleta to their ranks and have been linked with a move for Arsenal striker
Olivier Giroud. Werder Bremen striker Max Kruse is also a reported target
for Slaven Bilic, and the Hammers could bring in City goalkeeper Joe Hart on
loan if he is unable to find a permanent move this summer. But Noble knows
there has to be some patience from the squad, and West Ham's fans, given the
competitive nature of the market. Noble told Sky Sports News HQ: "I think we
need to get a few in. I'm sure the chairman is working tirelessly to get
them in but this market is so hard. "Players are so expensive now and you
get priced out. We're competing with so many other teams to get the players
we want."
Zabaleta made more than 200 appearances in his eight years with City and
Noble feels he will bring some vital experience to the London Stadium. He
added: "He's an all-round good fella. It's going to be a change for him
because he's used to having the ball for 70 or 80 per cent of the game.
"I've spoken to him on text already and he's really keen to meet the lads in
pre-season."
Noble is already back in training after an injury-plagued second half of
2016-17 which necessitated a post-season hernia operation.
He said: "I knew I had the hernias February time and me and the physios took
it on ourselves not to say anything until the club was safe.
"It kept getting worse and worse and I went to see the surgeon before the
Spurs game (May 5, his last game of season) and he said 'it's urgent now,
you need to have an operation.' "Then we beat Spurs and were mathematically
safe so it all worked out well."
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West Ham captain Mark Noble fears club could be priced out of summer
transfer deals as he admits Slaven Bilic 'needs to get a few players in'
West Ham have so far only made one signing this summer, Pablo Zabaleta
Club captain Mark Noble admits the club 'need to get a few players in'
However the midfielder says players are so expensive the Iron can be 'priced
out'
By Tom Bassam For Mailonline
PUBLISHED: 13:01, 21 June 2017 | UPDATED: 13:01, 21 June 2017
West Ham captain Mark Noble fears the club are missing out on much-needed
additions due to the high fees being paid by their rivals.
So far the Irons have added only former Manchester City defender Pablo
Zabaleta to a squad that only secured mathematical safety from the drop with
two games remaining. Kelechi Iheanacho, Olivier Grioud and Steve Mouni have
all been linked with a move to the London Stadium but so far the club have
been left frustrated in pursuit of their targets. Noble admits Slaven
Bilic's squad needs strengthening but fears the club are being priced out in
a tough market. 'I think we need to get a few in. I'm sure the chairman is
working tirelessly to get them in but this market is so hard,' Noble told
Sky Sports at the launch of the club's new kit. 'Players are so expensive
now and you get priced out. We're competing with so many other teams to get
the players we want.'
Noble is looking forward to getting to know the Irons' only summer arrival
so far, Zabaleta. The midfielder feels the Argentine veteran will bring some
vital experience to the club. He added: 'He's an all-round good fella. It's
going to be a change for him because he's used to having the ball for 70 or
80 per cent of the game.'I've spoken to him on text already and he's really
keen to meet the lads in pre-season.'
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Sealing Pedro Obiang's future is vital for West Ham this summer, but it is
just the beginning
HITC
Vincent Ralph
West Ham United need the midfielder in their ranks but he alone will not
make the difference. According to a report from the Mirror, West Ham United
are hoping to secure the long-term future of midfielder Pedro Obiang in the
next fortnight, warding off interest from England, Spain and Italy in the
process. Such is the 25-year-old's importance to Slaven Bilic's side that
seeing him put pen to paper on a new contract would be a huge step in the
right direction, ensuring the Hammers keep hold of one of their key players,
but it would only be the start of a huge summer of negotiations.
Selling Obiang is simply not an option if West Ham want to mount a serious
assault in the top half of the table next season and push for a return to
European football, but neither is sitting around twiddling their thumbs
while prime targets are snapped up elsewhere.
A football chairman's lot is a difficult one when it comes to transfer
windows, with the pressure on to deliver but a number of factors to be taken
into account for each and every deal.
However West Ham are in more need of reinforcements than many, with two new
strikers, a right-back and a centre-back all required to ensure they improve
upon last season's up-and-down campaign. There is a balance to be made
between keeping your best players happy and strengthening in key areas.
Sealing a new deal for Obiang is imperative, with the Spaniard proving
patience really can be a virtue by stepping off the side-lines to have a
massive impact on the Hammers last time out. A new deal should be offered as
soon as possible, but while that is being drawn up West Ham's hierarchy must
also be acting fast to bring new faces to the club. This summer could define
Bilic's legacy at the London Stadium, which means juggling as many balls as
they can to get improved contracts signed and targets sealed now rather than
later, or worse, never.
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Chelsea move for Lewandowski could work wonders for West Ham in Batshuayi
pursuit
If the Pole moves to Stamford Bridge, what for Batshuayi?
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
10:11, 21 JUN 2017
Chelsea fans have gone into meltdown after our sister The Mirror revealed
the Blues are targeting Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski this
summer. The Pole is reportedly unhappy with Munich boss Carlo Ancelotti
despite netting a whopping 43 goals in all competitions last season as the
Germans clinched their fifth straight Bundesliga crown. Lewandowski's agent,
Maik Barthel, has said: "Robert told me that he got no support and that the
coach [ex-Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti] gave no call to help him in the last
game to win the top-scorer title. "He was disappointed as I have never seen
him before."
Michy Batshuayi has said he doesn't want to spend another season sitting on
the bench at Chelsea (Photo: GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images)
With the Blues preparing for life without Diego Costa, they are targeting
both Romelu Lukaku and now Lewandoski and that leaves the future of Michy
Batshuayi up in the air. The Belgian striker has been long been linked with
a loan move to the Hammers but nothing will happen unless Antonio Conte can
get reinforcements in. If either one of Lewandowski or Lukaku - or both -
arrives, that should pave the way for Slaven Bilic to make his move to scoop
up Batshuayi for the season, having missed out on him last summer when the
Belgian joined the Blues from Marseille despite lodging a £30m bid.
Bilic has been frustrated so far in his attempts to sign Kelechi Iheanacho
from Man City while a switch for Henry Onyekuru continues to drag on but
Olivier Giroud at Arsenal is still the number one target.
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West Ham go back in time to promote new eye-catching home kit for the
forthcoming 2017/18 season
The Hammers have taken inspiration from the famous strip worn by Billy Bonds
and Trevor Brooking in the 1976 European Cup Winners' Cup Final
The Mirror
BYMARC ISAACS
06:00, 21 JUN 2017
West Ham have gone back in time after unveiling their new eye-catching home
kit for the forthcoming 2017/18 Premier League season. With the club
preparing for their second campaign at their new London Stadium home, the
club are determined to keep their traditions going and have taken
inspiration from the famous strip worn by Billy Bonds and Trevor Brooking in
the 1976 European Cup Winners' Cup Final.
The shirt fronts and collar feature the popular chevron design worn by the
Hammers for the first time in their memorable meeting with Anderlecht and
throughout the late 1970s. The chevrons also take inspiration from West
Ham's famous crossed Hammers, as well as the club's London Stadium home,
where the iconic floodlights, giant cantilever roof and supporting
infrastructure also feature the same triangular shape. A special video
featuring Hammers legends Bonds and Brooking has been made to promote the
kit with club skipper Mark Noble and manager Slaven Bilic also taking part.
There is also a historic voiceover from the late, great, Bobby Moore and the
video illustrates the significance of claret and blue to the identity of
West Ham United, its Thames Ironworks founders and the Hammers supporters.
Noble is thrilled with the new design and cannot wait to put on the new kit
when the new season gets underway. Noble said: "Everyone knows that West Ham
United is claret and blue, it's who were are. Next season's kit is a really
nice take on that theme and I think the Claret and Blue Army will really
like it. "It's the material that is the most important for us players and
when we tried it on at the photoshoot the boys were all really impressed
with how it felt, and we are really looking forward to playing in it next
season."
Hammer of the Year Michail Antonio believes this is one of the best kits he
has seen since he joined the club and feels it will be a big hit with the
claret and blue army. Antonio said: "We know how much the fans love to see
the new kit, it keeps them going over the summer, and I think they will be
proud to pull it on, just like we are as players when we walk onto the
pitch. "I really like the new design feature on the front, which represents
the crossed hammers that are a huge part of this club. It makes the shirt
really unique and it stands out for me as one of the best we have had since
I joined the Club."
Available to pre-order now in club stores and online at
officialwesthamstore.com, supporters can also take advantage of a special
pre-order offer by getting 10% off all 2017/18 home shirts plus free UK
mainland standard delivery.*
The shirt is priced at £55 for Adult sizes and £45 for Junior sizes, with
all fans receiving a 10% discountand free delivery on all Home shirt
purchases.
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West Ham transfer for Adama Traore complicated as Chelsea ready offer for
Middlesbrough winger
West Ham transfer news includes how Chelsea could attempt to hijhack the
Hammers' move for Middlesbrough FC winger Adama Traore
Football LOndon
BYTOM MARSHALL-BAILEY
07:00, 21 JUN 2017
West Ham's hopes of sealing a breakthrough in the transfer window could be
scuppered by Chelsea after the Blues emerged as key rivals in the race for
Middlesbrough winger Adama Traore. Slaven Bilic has earmarked the
21-year-old as a key target for his side this summer as he looks to inject
some pace into his side's attacking ranks and believed he was in pole
position to seal his signature. But the Hammers boss' hopes of snaring him
this summer have been thwarted by Chelsea counterpart Antonio Conte's rival
interest in the Boro wide player, who the Italian believes can add strength
in depth for his side. Bilic is keen to bring pace into his team this
summer, with Traore fitting the bill along with the likes of Kelechi
Iheanacho and Michy Batshuayi. The 21-year-old will be allowed to leave the
Riverside after Boro's relegation to the Championship, having suffered his
second relegation in as many years after a similar plight with Aston Villa.
He left Villa after their relegation and is now wanted by Conte as the Blues
boss believes Victor Moses requires more competition in the right wing-back
position. Traore made 32 appearances for Boro last season but failed to
score in any of them and registered just one assist.
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Could West Ham finally replace Dimitri Payet with Manchester City outcast
Samir Nasri?
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United need to get it right in the summer transfer window and could
look at yet another Manchester City outcast. Slaven Bilic has publicly
stated he wants to make four "game-changer" signings and has so far
recruited defender Pablo Zabaleta from Manchester City.
The Hammers have also been linked with moves for Joe Hart and Kelechi
Iheanacho as Pep Guardiola overhauls his squad in pursuit of domestic and
European titles. But could Bilic give a last Premier League chance to
another City outcast, Samir Nasri, as he looks to replace the mercurial
Dimitri Payet in East London. After a sensational start to a loan spell at
La Liga side Sevilla last season, the French playmaker's form dipped as the
season wore on. The inconsistency that has dogged much of the former Arsenal
star's career reared its ugly head and his mindless red card against
Leicester City in the Champions League knockout defeat helped make Sevilla's
mind up not to activate their option to buy. The man once labelled the new
Zidane has been linked with AC Milan but surely faces his last chance at a
big move at the age of 29. And Bilic could potentially get the midfielder
for a knockdown price as he looks to reshape a team which failed to meet
expectations last season and struggled after Payet's January exit. Some fans
may argue the club has only just got one French midfielder with a
questionable attitude off their books, why bring in another. But Nasri is
undoubtedly supremely talented and if Bilic can get the best out of him, he
could forge an exciting partnership with Manuel Lanzini and Michail Antonio.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, June 22
Wednesday, June 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st June 2017
2017/18 Season Ticket Waiting List update
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that a number of our loyal and
patient supporters on the Season Ticket Waiting List will soon be reserving
their seat at London Stadium for the 2017/18 Premier League campaign.
Following record-breaking renewal figures and a successful relocation
period, supporters on the Waiting List will be contacted by email in the
coming days and allocated a window to call the Ticket Office and purchase a
Season Ticket.
The pricing structure for new Season Ticket holders from the Waiting List
has also been confirmed, and we are pleased to announce that the £99
Under-16 Season Ticket remains available in both Bands 4 and Band 5,
following supporter feedback on how the long-term organic growth of the
stadium can assist in bringing together like-minded Season Ticket holders.
In addition, the Club are continuing to offer concession and junior rates in
Bands 1, 2 and 3, as part of our ongoing commitment to providing affordable
family football at London Stadium. The adult price in Band 5 also remains at
£289, meaning that a family of three West Ham United fans – one adult and
two children – can enjoy a season of Premier League football for the
equivalent of just £25.63 per match.
2017/18 new Season Ticket prices:
Season Ticket Prices
Adult O65s & U21s U16s Disabled Adult Disabled Concession
1966 £1,155 £1,155 £1,155 £1,155 £1,155
Band 1 £945 £475 £300 £475 £300
Band 2 £840 £420 £250 £420 £250
Band 3 £630 £315 £200 £315 £200
Band 4 £525 £265 £99 £265 £175
Band 5 £289 £145 £99 £145 £145
Supporters at the top end of the Waiting List will be allocated a window in
line with their position on the List. These supporters will receive an email
notification of their window, advising when they can call the Ticket Office
to purchase their Season Ticket.
Please note that if you are allocated a window to call the Ticket Office
that this does not guarantee you a Season Ticket and that seats are subject
to availability.
Supporters are reminded to have their client reference number to hand when
calling the Ticket Office and must be ready with payment at the time of the
call. Tickets cannot be placed on reserve.
Supporters do have the option to pay for their Season Ticket on a four-month
0% payment plan* through our partner V12 Season Ticket Finance.
While we do not wish to disappoint supporters, due to the extraordinary
demand for Season Tickets and with such a large number on the Waiting List,
we will not be able to offer everyone on the list a Season Ticket for the
2017/18 campaign, and the available seats are expected to sell out very
quickly.
However being on the Waiting List will ensure you are in the best position
to secure a Season Ticket in future seasons and take advantage of additional
benefits such as priority on match tickets after Claret members and
exclusive competitions.
To join the Waiting List, click here.
Once all available Season Tickets are sold out, further information will be
communicated via our official channels.
*Admin fee of £30 applies
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Michail Antonio and Karren Brady unveiled as Ladies team ambassadors
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady and Hammer of the Year Michail
Antonio have been unveiled as ambassadors for West Ham United Ladies.
Earlier this month, it was announced that the Hammers were making
significant improvements to the Ladies set-up, with a number of full-time
appointments and ambitious plans to reach WSL1 in the next five years. Now
they have received the backing of two of the club's most recognised figures,
with Baroness Brady and top goalscorer Antonio becoming official ambassadors
for the Ladies' side.
The roles will see the pair offer their support, guidance and time to help
the Irons achieve success on and off the pitch. Karren Brady said: "My Board
have been very keen to bring the Ladies Team in house so we can really help
them establish themselves as a real force in the women's game. "From the
top down, West Ham United is passionately committed to equality which is why
I am extremely happy to become an ambassador for West Ham United Ladies at
such an exciting period in the team's development. Michail Antonio said: "I
couldn't be happier to offer my support and time to help West Ham United
Ladies hit their ambitious targets over the coming years. "Women's football
is the UK's fastest growing sport and a club the size of West Ham should
have a thriving and well-supported Ladies side to compete alongside the men
and inspire the next generation of girls to get involved in playing
football. "I have met most of the players and I know how much this added
infrastructure will mean to them, not to mention the kind of platform it can
give them to climb the leagues. "I will be doing everything I can to help
them achieve their goals, and with Karen Ray, Greg de Carnys and Jack
Sullivan all working full time on the project, I have no doubt it will be an
overwhelming success."
West Ham United Ladies managing director Jack Sullivan said: "We are
absolutely delighted to have the backing of two of the club's most
recognised and well respected figures as ambassadors of the Ladies side at
this exciting time. "Karren is a true pioneer for women in football in this
country, and is without doubt one of the most inspirational figures for
young women across the sport and beyond. "Michail has been one of our star
performers for the last two seasons, and has this summer pledged his long
term future to the club. He is a huge advocate of the women's game and is
thriled to be able to lend his support and time to the Ladies. "With the
help and support of both Karren and Michail going forwards, the future looks
even brighter for West Ham United Ladies."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Havard Nordtveit signs for Hoffenheim
WHUFC.com
Havard Nordtveit has completed a transfer to German Bundesliga side
Hoffenheim for an undisclosed fee. The Norway international midfielder, 26,
returns to Germany a year after leaving Borussia Monchengladbach to sign for
West Ham United on a free transfer.
Nordtveit played 21 games in all competitions for the Hammers, after making
his debut in the UEFA Europa League tie at Slovenian side NK Domzale last
July. He has spent most of his career in the Bundesliga after leaving
Arsenal for Germany in 2011 and now joins Hoffenheim, who achieved their
highest-ever league position of fourth last term. Hammers boss Slaven Bilic
said: "I would like to thank Havard for his commitment and hard work last
season. He is an excellent professional and we wish him all the very best at
Hoffenheim."
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Bilic put me under unnecessary pressure, says Kouyate
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
Cheikhou Kouyate has claimed that Slaven Bilic ordered him to play at right
back against his wishes during the 2016/17 campaign. KUMB revealed yesterday
how Kouyate was unsure where his immediate future lay, having experienced a
disappointing season at West Ham - his third since moving from Anderlecht in
2014.
And one of the reasons for the uncertainty was Bilic's decision to ask him
to play at right back during an injury crisis at the start of last season -
despite having previously told Kouyate that it was only a temporary
arrangement, according to the Senegal international. "I reminded him [Bilic]
what he had told me, but he insisted that I stay at the position," Kouyate
told Sen360FR. "My friend Aliou Cissé called me and said, 'Cheikhou, that's
not you. You can play as central defender but not right back because there
you are bored'. "Indeed, he was right because I did not feel good in
everything I did. It is true that I had fire [in my belly] and I took my
responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue. "My
performance was catastrophic, all the TV pundits said so. I fully agree with
that criticism. I was a spectator. I did not know when to cover or to
attack. "I also received a lot of positive messages from the fans and it
was then that the coach brought me back to my original position. But
frankly, he put me in a difficult situation because there was enormous
pressure."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham begin talks with Pedro Obiang over a new deal as Everton, Sevilla
and AC Milan circle
The Hammers are determined to fend off interest from Everton, Sevilla and AC
Milan by tying him down on new terms
The Mirror
BYADRIAN KAJUMBA
19:02, 20 JUN 2017
West Ham are in talks with midfielder Pedro Obiang over a new deal. The
Hammers are determined to fend off interest from Everton, Sevilla and AC
Milan by tying Obiang, 25, down on new terms. Discussions are underway and
a new agreement could be reached for the £15m-rated ace in the next
fortnight. Obiang's current deal runs until 2019 and persuading the Spaniard
to stay beyond that will be a big boost for the Hammers. He has proved to
be a bargain coup since his £4.3m move from Sampdoria in July 2015. And his
displays last season saw him finish as runner up in the race to be crowned
Hammer of the Year.
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Oxford passes medical
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham teenager Reece Oxford has completed a medical ahead of a
season-long loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old Hammer
passed his medical tests without a hitch yesterday and is expected to be
confirmed as a Monchengladbach player imminently.
Oxford's new club finished ninth in the Bundesliga last season, with 45
points from their 34 league games.
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Season ticket price hike for new fans
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
New season ticket holders face paying an average of five per cent more than
existing supporters when they purchase their first annual pass at the
Olympic Stadium. Prices for new adult fans have been raised by an average of
five per cent across the top five price bands, from Band 4 up to the 1966
section - as you can see from our table below. However that price increase
is dwarfed by the rise in prices for Under 16s in Bands 1-3, where costs
have risen by up to 203 PER CENT. The price of children's seats in Bands 1-3
has been hiked dramatically, as the club seek to push younger fans towards
the cheaper Band 4 and Band 5 areas (which remain available at £99 each).
The price of a child seat in Band 1 has been raised from £99 to £300 (203
per cent rise) for new season ticket holders, from £99 to £250 in Band 2
(153 per cent) and from £99 to £200 in Band 3 (102 per cent).
Season Ticket Prices 2017/18
(For new season ticket holders only, prices frozen for renewals)
Adults
1966: £1,155 (+5%)
Band 1: £945 (+5%)
Band 2: £840 (+5%)
Band 3: £630 (+5%)
Band 4: £525 (+5%)
Band 5: £289 (No change)
Over 65s/Under 21s
1966: Concessions unavailable
Band 1: £475 (+6%)
Band 2: £420 (+5%)
Band 3: £315 (+5%)
Band 4: £265 (+6%)
Band 5: £289 (No change)
Disabled
1966: Unavailable
Band 1: £475 (+6%)
Band 2: £420 (+5%)
Band 3: £315 (+5%)
Band 4: £265 (+6%)
Band 5: £145 (No change)
Under 16s
1966: Concessions unavailable
Band 1: £300 (+203%)
Band 2: £250 (+153%)
Band 3: £200 (+102%)
Band 4: £99 (No change)
Band 5: £99 (No change)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Good enough for Monchengladbach but not West Ham - Why Reece Oxford's latest
loan deal stinks
The teenager has been allowed to join Monchengladbach on loan for the season
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
11:10, 20 JUN 2017
Reece Oxford's loan deal to Borussia Moenchengladbach hasn't been confirmed
by West Ham yet, but his agent has pretty much done that anyway. It's
another step on the development ladder for the highly talented 18-year-old,
who recently penned a new four-year deal at the Hammers last December. But,
come the end of this latest spell away, he will have spent 18 months of that
on loan - six nigh-on pointless months at Reading and 12 months in the
Bundesliga. Borussia Monchengladbach finished ninth in the German top-flight
last season, West Ham finished 11th in the Premier League after struggling
all season defensively. Were it not for a switch to five at the back for the
final few games of the season, the Hammers would have had one of the worst
defensive records in the league. So, that means a defender tipped to be a
future West Ham and England captain - and who was courted by Manchester
United, Manchester City and Arsenal before he committed his future to the
Hammers - has been allowed to leave on loan again?
It's a ridiculous move. Oxford is good enough for Monchengladbach but he
can't get in the West Ham starting line up having broken through nearly
three years ago now? Really? Statistically, Monchengladbach are better than
West Ham, they will be laughing at being able to borrow one of the brightest
talents in English football for the next season.
This is West Ham - the Academy of Football - yet our best talent in over a
decade is not being given a chance in claret and blue. This isn't Chelsea,
where the loan pool of talent is enormous but nearly none of them make the
grade and are eventually sold on. This cannot happen to Oxford. Slaven Bilic
brought in Jose Fonte in January and sent Oxford off to Reading for six
months following Angelo Ogbonna's injury. Why wasn't Oxford handed a chance
then? The Euro 2016 winner has not been anywhere near what was expected of
him when he signed. Oxford is a replacement for Andreas Christensen, who has
gone back to Chelsea after two years in the Bundesliga but is he going to be
Antonio Conte's first choice centre back this season? No. Josh Cullen has
spent two years away on loan, Reece Burke a similar amount, what do their
futures hold if Reece Oxford of all people can't make it?
Phil Doran @PhilDoran21
hope Reece Oxford goes onto a bigger club and succeeds, will serve us right
for not playing him, age is nothing these days if ya good enough
8:30 AM - 20 Jun 2017
Retweets 1 1 like
Jack Lebeau @JackLebeau66
Hope Reece Oxford gets good game time at Borussia Monchengladbach, but it's
a very strange move given they're better than us.
8:52 AM - 20 Jun 2017 · Chersonisos, Greece
2 2 Retweets 22 22 likes
Chris @woodersworld
I'm sure Reece Oxford should be playing in the West Ham First Team by now
not going out on loan again.
7:54 AM - 20 Jun 2017
1 1 Retweet likes
West Ham were the worst team in the division at giving teenagers minutes in
the Premier League last season - Declan Rice was the only one and he got a
paltry two of them in the final game of the season at Burnley. Co-chairman
David Gold's ill-timed and frankly ludicrous comments saying it's hard for a
teenager to break into a team of seasoned internationals riled up the
Hammers faithful, and rightly so, and Oxford's loan move has done nothing to
dispel the myth that the youngsters won't get into the first team. Kids
aren't the be all and end all, but this is Reece Oxford, who has already
proven more than once that he has the ability to play regular minutes in the
Premier League. Look at Everton and their youth set up, and where they
finished in the table last season. Oxford could quite comfortably be in the
starting line up for Slaven Bilic at Manchester United on the opening day of
the 2017/18 season but if anything, he has regressed in the past 12 months.
The club will say this is for Reece's development, but he's already good
enough, he doesn't need to go on loan to Germany to progress. It's no way to
treat the best player the club has produced in years. Good enough for ninth
in the Bundesliga but not for 11th in the Premier League. This latest loan
deal stinks.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham should try one last time for Carlos Tevez as striker considers
future after China disaster
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United are desperate for a top striker this summer and it looks
like Carlos Tevez could be on the move again. The Hammers have made signing
two top strikers a priority this summer after their failure to land a big
name marquee forward last summer. Slaven Bilic has been linked with moves
for the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Kelechi Iheanacho, Michy Batshuayi,
Onyekuru Henry and Olivier Giroud but it seems the club are no closer to
adding to their solitary signing of Pablo Zabaleta so far this summer. So
should the club reignite a longstanding interest in bringing Hammers hero
Carlos Tevez back to East London, and make the striker's wish come true at
the same time.
Back in 2010, Tevez - then at Manchester City - told the Daily Mail: "Their
(West Ham's) supporters feel football; they are passionate, these people
invested great support in me. "I wish to play again for West Ham before I
finish my career. I have some unfinished business there."
A successful spell at Juventus followed before his long-awaited return to
hometown club Boca Juniors, which was meant to be the place he would see out
his playing days. Then came the mega money offer from China which made the
Argentine the highest paid player in world football. But just six months
into that deal the man who scored the goals which saw West Ham pull off the
Great Escape in 2007 has admitted his future is up in the air. Currently
playing for Shanghai Shenhua, Tevez should be set for two lifetimes so money
should not be an issue when he decides his next destination. Since moving to
China, the 33-year-old has scored just once in six Chinese Super League
games with his side sitting four points above the relegation zone. And Tevez
admits he does not know what his next move will be, in an interview with TyC
Sports. "I left not to hurt Boca," Tevez said. "Honestly, I do not know what
I'm going to do at the end of the year. "If I'm not hungry for glory, it's
very difficult to stay in the club. I have to find myself to go back, I know
I gave them everything."
Hammers co-owner David Sullivan revealed last year that he wanted to make
Tevez the highest paid player in the club's history by offering the striker
£150,000 per week to leave Boca and return for West Ham's Olympic Stadium
adventure. But Sullivan claimed the striker demanded £250,000 per week, a
figure he felt was unreasonable, as reported by Sky Sports. Instead West Ham
ended up with Italian flop Simone Zaza on loan and the deal was cancelled
less than halfway through so he could join Valencia.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sofiane Feghouli considered January exit from West Ham until Slaven Bilic
convinced him to stay
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Sofiane Feghouli has confirmed that he considered leaving West Ham in
January before Slaven Bilic convinced him to stay. As Standard Sport
revealed earlier this year Feghouli was the subject of interest from Roma
after a frustrating start to life in the Premier League.
However Dimitri Payet's shock exit from the club forced West Ham to
re-evaulate their stance on Feghouli, who they had been open to selling only
six months after he joined on a free transfer from Valencia, and the
Algerian winger rewarded Slaven Bilic with a string of impressive
performances during the closing months of the season. And Feghouli revealed
that showdown talks with Bilic were enough to convince him to spurn interest
from elsewhere and commit to West Ham. "During the winter transfer window, I
had quite a few offers, and I decided to have a frank discussion with the
manager to see if he counted on me or not since I needed time on the pitch
to show what I was worth," Feghouli told Competition. "He reassured me,
telling me that I shouldn't leave and that he trusted me. He even told me
that he would give me a shot and that I needed to continue to work like I
was doing."
Speaking last month Feghouli admitted that West Ham fans had not seen the
best of him in a campaign plagued by injuries but vowed that supporters
would see the best of him during his sophomore season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wenger deals dagger blow to West Ham in pursuit of Arsenal striker Olivier
Giroud
The Arsenal boss has hinted the French striker could be staying at the club
Footrball London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
10:17, 20 JUN 2017
Arsene Wenger has said Arsenal "need" Olivier Giroud next season in a dagger
blow to West Ham's hopes of signing the striker. The French striker has been
heavily linked with a £20m switch to east London this summer, especially if
Arsenal sign either Kylian Mbappe or Alexandre Lcazette in the transfer
window, leaving Giroud way down the pecking order. Slaven Bilic is
desperate to bring in at least one new striker this summer and the 16-goal
frontman from last season at the Emirates is at the top of the shopping
list. But, Gunners boss Wenger appears to have suggested he doesn't want to
sell the 30-year-old any time soon. "It has been a frustrating season for
him because he has not played a lot. And when he has played well, he has not
always played the next match," he said. "He has won us a lot of points when
he has come on because he has scored lots of times. He has qualities that
our team need."
Giroud started just 11 Premier League games last term but still scored more
than 15 goals, which is six more than the best West Ham goalscorer of last
season, Michail Antonio, who bagged nine in an injury-hit campaign. Giroud
has said he wants to stay in London and the Premier League ahead of the
World Cup in Russia next year. Kelechi Iheanacho and Michy Batshuayi are
also on the target list for Bilic this summer as he looks for a more
reliable option up front than the injury-prone Andy Carroll and Diafra
Sakho. The 30-year-old penned a new two-and-a-half deal with the Gunners in
January and has scored 98 times for the club in 226 appearances, winning
three FA Cups.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham midfielder explains the reasons behind his debut season struggles
in east London
The Hammers star is preparing for a big campaign this year
Football London
BYADAM JONES
09:56, 20 JUN 2017
West Ham star Sofiane Feghouli thinks that an early-season injury seriously
hampered his first season at the London Stadium - but that he will use his
experiences to his advantage next campaign. The midfielder picked up an
injury in a pre-season match against Juventus last season which kept him out
of the first month of the league season. The les to a rather mixed first
season in east London for the 27-year-old - who moved to West Ham from
Valencia last summer. Speaking recently whilst on international duty,
Feghouli has explained how the early injury affected him - and why he is
ready to kick on going in to the 2017/18 campaign. He said: "I had a very
good pre-season but unfortunately I hurt myself just before the first day of
the league against Juventus, a friendly. "I played, and in halfway in I
realised that I had seriously injured myself, which caused me a month and a
half of unavailability. It ruined my start to the season. "The league began
the following week, and it was necessary to get back in shape, then get back
into shape with a team already in place, and it's never easy. "In the
winter, I had a lot of offers and decided to have a frank discussion with
the coach about whether or not he was counting on me since I needed time to
demonstrate my value. "The coach reassured me, assuring me that I should not
leave and that he was counting on me. He even told me he was going to give
me my chance and that I had to keep working as I did. "It was a new
challenge with a new kind of football that I discovered. It's a year where I
have acquired a lot and will definitely be used for this season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let's Talk: The inside scoop on Joe Hart and Kelechi Iheanacho to West Ham
from @ExWHUEmployee
ByStuartPosted on June 20, 2017
mfcwatch.co.uk
West Ham could sign as many as THREE Manchester City players this summer if
the rumour mill is to be believed. One of them, club legend Pablo Zabaleta,
has already arrived at the London Stadium on a free transfer, but youngster
Kelechi Iheanacho and England goalkeeper Joe Hart are also being heavily
linked.
To get an update on what is going on with those two, plus a rather tenuous
Wilfried Bony rumour, we caught up with the always well-informed
@ExWHUEmployee of The West Ham Way and asked him a few questions.
What's the status on Kelechi Iheanacho to West Ham? A few weeks ago it
looked a dead cert, now Leicester are odds-on at the bookies and things have
gone a little quiet. I understand City's demand for a buy-back clause could
be causing problems?
The problem with Iheanacho, like you say, is that City have demanded a
buy-back clause to be part of the deal. The player himself doesn't want to
leave and this is also seen as a way of appeasing the transfer. The buy-back
clause is said to be quite low and with Kelechi making it clear he only
really wants to stay in Britain so he can obtain citizenship – and this has
made us rethink our offer. A bid has been made and we are still keen but
further negotiations are still required.
West Ham are also keen on Olivier Giroud of Arsenal. Would it be the end of
your interest in Kelechi if you sign him up or is Bilic after multiple
strikers?
I think Bilic would like to sign both Giroud and Iheanacho. We struggled
massively last season for not having enough forward options throughout the
campaign, with first choice Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho spending more time
on the treatment table than the pitch! If both forwards could be obtained
for around £20m-£25m then I think we would sign both seeing as we offered
£35m for one forward last year.
City are struggling to find buyers for Joe Hart because of his excessive
wages, and there have been a few reports that West Ham would be happy to
take him on loan. What's your information on that?
West Ham are keen on Hart although City would have to pay a significant
percentage of his wages because on his current salary he would earn more
than double any of our players, which would shattered our wage structure!
Should this percentage be reduced I think we would make a move.
A pretty well known site in France, Foot Mercato, claims West Ham are one of
three clubs keen on Wilfried Bony. I know there has been some West Ham
interest in the past, but is that active?
I do not believe we are interested in Bony anymore. We have concerns that he
isn't the forward he once was at Swansea and this has been shown by a poor
loan spell at Stoke. With his wage demands as well it means the deal is a no
go for us at this point.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
REECE OXFORD HEADS TO GERMANY
by Iain Dale 20 Jun 2017 at 08:45
WTID
It's been confirmed that Reece Oxford is heading to German Bundesliga side
Borussia Moenchengladbach for a season long loan. I have mixed feelings
about this. If he gets a full season in the first team it's obvious that
will help his development, and that's to be welcomed. However, when he went
to Reading last season he only made five appearances. I struggled to
understand this as he ought to have been head and shoulders over what
Reading already had, but Jaap Stamm had other thoughts.
When Reece made that amazing debut against Arsenal in August 2015, where he
dominated the match, I think we all thought we had found the next Rio
Ferdinand. Since then, he's only made six further appearances, something
which leaves us all scratching our heads. It's not as if we haven't been
beset by injury in the positions he plays in, yet he's barely been given a
chance. The club obviously rate him, otherwise why would he already be on
£45k a week, but if he returns from Germany at the end of the season having
barely played, you just wonder where he goes from there.
For me, he and Reece Burke could be real stars of the future, but they need
game time. I'd be gutted if Burke went out on loan again. He looks ready to
challenge for a first team place and should be given the chance to shine.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to confirm that a number of our loyal and
patient supporters on the Season Ticket Waiting List will soon be reserving
their seat at London Stadium for the 2017/18 Premier League campaign.
Following record-breaking renewal figures and a successful relocation
period, supporters on the Waiting List will be contacted by email in the
coming days and allocated a window to call the Ticket Office and purchase a
Season Ticket.
The pricing structure for new Season Ticket holders from the Waiting List
has also been confirmed, and we are pleased to announce that the £99
Under-16 Season Ticket remains available in both Bands 4 and Band 5,
following supporter feedback on how the long-term organic growth of the
stadium can assist in bringing together like-minded Season Ticket holders.
In addition, the Club are continuing to offer concession and junior rates in
Bands 1, 2 and 3, as part of our ongoing commitment to providing affordable
family football at London Stadium. The adult price in Band 5 also remains at
£289, meaning that a family of three West Ham United fans – one adult and
two children – can enjoy a season of Premier League football for the
equivalent of just £25.63 per match.
2017/18 new Season Ticket prices:
Season Ticket Prices
Adult O65s & U21s U16s Disabled Adult Disabled Concession
1966 £1,155 £1,155 £1,155 £1,155 £1,155
Band 1 £945 £475 £300 £475 £300
Band 2 £840 £420 £250 £420 £250
Band 3 £630 £315 £200 £315 £200
Band 4 £525 £265 £99 £265 £175
Band 5 £289 £145 £99 £145 £145
Supporters at the top end of the Waiting List will be allocated a window in
line with their position on the List. These supporters will receive an email
notification of their window, advising when they can call the Ticket Office
to purchase their Season Ticket.
Please note that if you are allocated a window to call the Ticket Office
that this does not guarantee you a Season Ticket and that seats are subject
to availability.
Supporters are reminded to have their client reference number to hand when
calling the Ticket Office and must be ready with payment at the time of the
call. Tickets cannot be placed on reserve.
Supporters do have the option to pay for their Season Ticket on a four-month
0% payment plan* through our partner V12 Season Ticket Finance.
While we do not wish to disappoint supporters, due to the extraordinary
demand for Season Tickets and with such a large number on the Waiting List,
we will not be able to offer everyone on the list a Season Ticket for the
2017/18 campaign, and the available seats are expected to sell out very
quickly.
However being on the Waiting List will ensure you are in the best position
to secure a Season Ticket in future seasons and take advantage of additional
benefits such as priority on match tickets after Claret members and
exclusive competitions.
To join the Waiting List, click here.
Once all available Season Tickets are sold out, further information will be
communicated via our official channels.
*Admin fee of £30 applies
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Michail Antonio and Karren Brady unveiled as Ladies team ambassadors
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady and Hammer of the Year Michail
Antonio have been unveiled as ambassadors for West Ham United Ladies.
Earlier this month, it was announced that the Hammers were making
significant improvements to the Ladies set-up, with a number of full-time
appointments and ambitious plans to reach WSL1 in the next five years. Now
they have received the backing of two of the club's most recognised figures,
with Baroness Brady and top goalscorer Antonio becoming official ambassadors
for the Ladies' side.
The roles will see the pair offer their support, guidance and time to help
the Irons achieve success on and off the pitch. Karren Brady said: "My Board
have been very keen to bring the Ladies Team in house so we can really help
them establish themselves as a real force in the women's game. "From the
top down, West Ham United is passionately committed to equality which is why
I am extremely happy to become an ambassador for West Ham United Ladies at
such an exciting period in the team's development. Michail Antonio said: "I
couldn't be happier to offer my support and time to help West Ham United
Ladies hit their ambitious targets over the coming years. "Women's football
is the UK's fastest growing sport and a club the size of West Ham should
have a thriving and well-supported Ladies side to compete alongside the men
and inspire the next generation of girls to get involved in playing
football. "I have met most of the players and I know how much this added
infrastructure will mean to them, not to mention the kind of platform it can
give them to climb the leagues. "I will be doing everything I can to help
them achieve their goals, and with Karen Ray, Greg de Carnys and Jack
Sullivan all working full time on the project, I have no doubt it will be an
overwhelming success."
West Ham United Ladies managing director Jack Sullivan said: "We are
absolutely delighted to have the backing of two of the club's most
recognised and well respected figures as ambassadors of the Ladies side at
this exciting time. "Karren is a true pioneer for women in football in this
country, and is without doubt one of the most inspirational figures for
young women across the sport and beyond. "Michail has been one of our star
performers for the last two seasons, and has this summer pledged his long
term future to the club. He is a huge advocate of the women's game and is
thriled to be able to lend his support and time to the Ladies. "With the
help and support of both Karren and Michail going forwards, the future looks
even brighter for West Ham United Ladies."
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Havard Nordtveit signs for Hoffenheim
WHUFC.com
Havard Nordtveit has completed a transfer to German Bundesliga side
Hoffenheim for an undisclosed fee. The Norway international midfielder, 26,
returns to Germany a year after leaving Borussia Monchengladbach to sign for
West Ham United on a free transfer.
Nordtveit played 21 games in all competitions for the Hammers, after making
his debut in the UEFA Europa League tie at Slovenian side NK Domzale last
July. He has spent most of his career in the Bundesliga after leaving
Arsenal for Germany in 2011 and now joins Hoffenheim, who achieved their
highest-ever league position of fourth last term. Hammers boss Slaven Bilic
said: "I would like to thank Havard for his commitment and hard work last
season. He is an excellent professional and we wish him all the very best at
Hoffenheim."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic put me under unnecessary pressure, says Kouyate
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
Cheikhou Kouyate has claimed that Slaven Bilic ordered him to play at right
back against his wishes during the 2016/17 campaign. KUMB revealed yesterday
how Kouyate was unsure where his immediate future lay, having experienced a
disappointing season at West Ham - his third since moving from Anderlecht in
2014.
And one of the reasons for the uncertainty was Bilic's decision to ask him
to play at right back during an injury crisis at the start of last season -
despite having previously told Kouyate that it was only a temporary
arrangement, according to the Senegal international. "I reminded him [Bilic]
what he had told me, but he insisted that I stay at the position," Kouyate
told Sen360FR. "My friend Aliou Cissé called me and said, 'Cheikhou, that's
not you. You can play as central defender but not right back because there
you are bored'. "Indeed, he was right because I did not feel good in
everything I did. It is true that I had fire [in my belly] and I took my
responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue. "My
performance was catastrophic, all the TV pundits said so. I fully agree with
that criticism. I was a spectator. I did not know when to cover or to
attack. "I also received a lot of positive messages from the fans and it
was then that the coach brought me back to my original position. But
frankly, he put me in a difficult situation because there was enormous
pressure."
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West Ham begin talks with Pedro Obiang over a new deal as Everton, Sevilla
and AC Milan circle
The Hammers are determined to fend off interest from Everton, Sevilla and AC
Milan by tying him down on new terms
The Mirror
BYADRIAN KAJUMBA
19:02, 20 JUN 2017
West Ham are in talks with midfielder Pedro Obiang over a new deal. The
Hammers are determined to fend off interest from Everton, Sevilla and AC
Milan by tying Obiang, 25, down on new terms. Discussions are underway and
a new agreement could be reached for the £15m-rated ace in the next
fortnight. Obiang's current deal runs until 2019 and persuading the Spaniard
to stay beyond that will be a big boost for the Hammers. He has proved to
be a bargain coup since his £4.3m move from Sampdoria in July 2015. And his
displays last season saw him finish as runner up in the race to be crowned
Hammer of the Year.
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Oxford passes medical
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham teenager Reece Oxford has completed a medical ahead of a
season-long loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old Hammer
passed his medical tests without a hitch yesterday and is expected to be
confirmed as a Monchengladbach player imminently.
Oxford's new club finished ninth in the Bundesliga last season, with 45
points from their 34 league games.
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Season ticket price hike for new fans
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 20th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
New season ticket holders face paying an average of five per cent more than
existing supporters when they purchase their first annual pass at the
Olympic Stadium. Prices for new adult fans have been raised by an average of
five per cent across the top five price bands, from Band 4 up to the 1966
section - as you can see from our table below. However that price increase
is dwarfed by the rise in prices for Under 16s in Bands 1-3, where costs
have risen by up to 203 PER CENT. The price of children's seats in Bands 1-3
has been hiked dramatically, as the club seek to push younger fans towards
the cheaper Band 4 and Band 5 areas (which remain available at £99 each).
The price of a child seat in Band 1 has been raised from £99 to £300 (203
per cent rise) for new season ticket holders, from £99 to £250 in Band 2
(153 per cent) and from £99 to £200 in Band 3 (102 per cent).
Season Ticket Prices 2017/18
(For new season ticket holders only, prices frozen for renewals)
Adults
1966: £1,155 (+5%)
Band 1: £945 (+5%)
Band 2: £840 (+5%)
Band 3: £630 (+5%)
Band 4: £525 (+5%)
Band 5: £289 (No change)
Over 65s/Under 21s
1966: Concessions unavailable
Band 1: £475 (+6%)
Band 2: £420 (+5%)
Band 3: £315 (+5%)
Band 4: £265 (+6%)
Band 5: £289 (No change)
Disabled
1966: Unavailable
Band 1: £475 (+6%)
Band 2: £420 (+5%)
Band 3: £315 (+5%)
Band 4: £265 (+6%)
Band 5: £145 (No change)
Under 16s
1966: Concessions unavailable
Band 1: £300 (+203%)
Band 2: £250 (+153%)
Band 3: £200 (+102%)
Band 4: £99 (No change)
Band 5: £99 (No change)
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Good enough for Monchengladbach but not West Ham - Why Reece Oxford's latest
loan deal stinks
The teenager has been allowed to join Monchengladbach on loan for the season
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
11:10, 20 JUN 2017
Reece Oxford's loan deal to Borussia Moenchengladbach hasn't been confirmed
by West Ham yet, but his agent has pretty much done that anyway. It's
another step on the development ladder for the highly talented 18-year-old,
who recently penned a new four-year deal at the Hammers last December. But,
come the end of this latest spell away, he will have spent 18 months of that
on loan - six nigh-on pointless months at Reading and 12 months in the
Bundesliga. Borussia Monchengladbach finished ninth in the German top-flight
last season, West Ham finished 11th in the Premier League after struggling
all season defensively. Were it not for a switch to five at the back for the
final few games of the season, the Hammers would have had one of the worst
defensive records in the league. So, that means a defender tipped to be a
future West Ham and England captain - and who was courted by Manchester
United, Manchester City and Arsenal before he committed his future to the
Hammers - has been allowed to leave on loan again?
It's a ridiculous move. Oxford is good enough for Monchengladbach but he
can't get in the West Ham starting line up having broken through nearly
three years ago now? Really? Statistically, Monchengladbach are better than
West Ham, they will be laughing at being able to borrow one of the brightest
talents in English football for the next season.
This is West Ham - the Academy of Football - yet our best talent in over a
decade is not being given a chance in claret and blue. This isn't Chelsea,
where the loan pool of talent is enormous but nearly none of them make the
grade and are eventually sold on. This cannot happen to Oxford. Slaven Bilic
brought in Jose Fonte in January and sent Oxford off to Reading for six
months following Angelo Ogbonna's injury. Why wasn't Oxford handed a chance
then? The Euro 2016 winner has not been anywhere near what was expected of
him when he signed. Oxford is a replacement for Andreas Christensen, who has
gone back to Chelsea after two years in the Bundesliga but is he going to be
Antonio Conte's first choice centre back this season? No. Josh Cullen has
spent two years away on loan, Reece Burke a similar amount, what do their
futures hold if Reece Oxford of all people can't make it?
Phil Doran @PhilDoran21
hope Reece Oxford goes onto a bigger club and succeeds, will serve us right
for not playing him, age is nothing these days if ya good enough
8:30 AM - 20 Jun 2017
Retweets 1 1 like
Jack Lebeau @JackLebeau66
Hope Reece Oxford gets good game time at Borussia Monchengladbach, but it's
a very strange move given they're better than us.
8:52 AM - 20 Jun 2017 · Chersonisos, Greece
2 2 Retweets 22 22 likes
Chris @woodersworld
I'm sure Reece Oxford should be playing in the West Ham First Team by now
not going out on loan again.
7:54 AM - 20 Jun 2017
1 1 Retweet likes
West Ham were the worst team in the division at giving teenagers minutes in
the Premier League last season - Declan Rice was the only one and he got a
paltry two of them in the final game of the season at Burnley. Co-chairman
David Gold's ill-timed and frankly ludicrous comments saying it's hard for a
teenager to break into a team of seasoned internationals riled up the
Hammers faithful, and rightly so, and Oxford's loan move has done nothing to
dispel the myth that the youngsters won't get into the first team. Kids
aren't the be all and end all, but this is Reece Oxford, who has already
proven more than once that he has the ability to play regular minutes in the
Premier League. Look at Everton and their youth set up, and where they
finished in the table last season. Oxford could quite comfortably be in the
starting line up for Slaven Bilic at Manchester United on the opening day of
the 2017/18 season but if anything, he has regressed in the past 12 months.
The club will say this is for Reece's development, but he's already good
enough, he doesn't need to go on loan to Germany to progress. It's no way to
treat the best player the club has produced in years. Good enough for ninth
in the Bundesliga but not for 11th in the Premier League. This latest loan
deal stinks.
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West Ham should try one last time for Carlos Tevez as striker considers
future after China disaster
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United are desperate for a top striker this summer and it looks
like Carlos Tevez could be on the move again. The Hammers have made signing
two top strikers a priority this summer after their failure to land a big
name marquee forward last summer. Slaven Bilic has been linked with moves
for the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Kelechi Iheanacho, Michy Batshuayi,
Onyekuru Henry and Olivier Giroud but it seems the club are no closer to
adding to their solitary signing of Pablo Zabaleta so far this summer. So
should the club reignite a longstanding interest in bringing Hammers hero
Carlos Tevez back to East London, and make the striker's wish come true at
the same time.
Back in 2010, Tevez - then at Manchester City - told the Daily Mail: "Their
(West Ham's) supporters feel football; they are passionate, these people
invested great support in me. "I wish to play again for West Ham before I
finish my career. I have some unfinished business there."
A successful spell at Juventus followed before his long-awaited return to
hometown club Boca Juniors, which was meant to be the place he would see out
his playing days. Then came the mega money offer from China which made the
Argentine the highest paid player in world football. But just six months
into that deal the man who scored the goals which saw West Ham pull off the
Great Escape in 2007 has admitted his future is up in the air. Currently
playing for Shanghai Shenhua, Tevez should be set for two lifetimes so money
should not be an issue when he decides his next destination. Since moving to
China, the 33-year-old has scored just once in six Chinese Super League
games with his side sitting four points above the relegation zone. And Tevez
admits he does not know what his next move will be, in an interview with TyC
Sports. "I left not to hurt Boca," Tevez said. "Honestly, I do not know what
I'm going to do at the end of the year. "If I'm not hungry for glory, it's
very difficult to stay in the club. I have to find myself to go back, I know
I gave them everything."
Hammers co-owner David Sullivan revealed last year that he wanted to make
Tevez the highest paid player in the club's history by offering the striker
£150,000 per week to leave Boca and return for West Ham's Olympic Stadium
adventure. But Sullivan claimed the striker demanded £250,000 per week, a
figure he felt was unreasonable, as reported by Sky Sports. Instead West Ham
ended up with Italian flop Simone Zaza on loan and the deal was cancelled
less than halfway through so he could join Valencia.
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Sofiane Feghouli considered January exit from West Ham until Slaven Bilic
convinced him to stay
JAMES BENGE
Evening Standard
Sofiane Feghouli has confirmed that he considered leaving West Ham in
January before Slaven Bilic convinced him to stay. As Standard Sport
revealed earlier this year Feghouli was the subject of interest from Roma
after a frustrating start to life in the Premier League.
However Dimitri Payet's shock exit from the club forced West Ham to
re-evaulate their stance on Feghouli, who they had been open to selling only
six months after he joined on a free transfer from Valencia, and the
Algerian winger rewarded Slaven Bilic with a string of impressive
performances during the closing months of the season. And Feghouli revealed
that showdown talks with Bilic were enough to convince him to spurn interest
from elsewhere and commit to West Ham. "During the winter transfer window, I
had quite a few offers, and I decided to have a frank discussion with the
manager to see if he counted on me or not since I needed time on the pitch
to show what I was worth," Feghouli told Competition. "He reassured me,
telling me that I shouldn't leave and that he trusted me. He even told me
that he would give me a shot and that I needed to continue to work like I
was doing."
Speaking last month Feghouli admitted that West Ham fans had not seen the
best of him in a campaign plagued by injuries but vowed that supporters
would see the best of him during his sophomore season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wenger deals dagger blow to West Ham in pursuit of Arsenal striker Olivier
Giroud
The Arsenal boss has hinted the French striker could be staying at the club
Footrball London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
10:17, 20 JUN 2017
Arsene Wenger has said Arsenal "need" Olivier Giroud next season in a dagger
blow to West Ham's hopes of signing the striker. The French striker has been
heavily linked with a £20m switch to east London this summer, especially if
Arsenal sign either Kylian Mbappe or Alexandre Lcazette in the transfer
window, leaving Giroud way down the pecking order. Slaven Bilic is
desperate to bring in at least one new striker this summer and the 16-goal
frontman from last season at the Emirates is at the top of the shopping
list. But, Gunners boss Wenger appears to have suggested he doesn't want to
sell the 30-year-old any time soon. "It has been a frustrating season for
him because he has not played a lot. And when he has played well, he has not
always played the next match," he said. "He has won us a lot of points when
he has come on because he has scored lots of times. He has qualities that
our team need."
Giroud started just 11 Premier League games last term but still scored more
than 15 goals, which is six more than the best West Ham goalscorer of last
season, Michail Antonio, who bagged nine in an injury-hit campaign. Giroud
has said he wants to stay in London and the Premier League ahead of the
World Cup in Russia next year. Kelechi Iheanacho and Michy Batshuayi are
also on the target list for Bilic this summer as he looks for a more
reliable option up front than the injury-prone Andy Carroll and Diafra
Sakho. The 30-year-old penned a new two-and-a-half deal with the Gunners in
January and has scored 98 times for the club in 226 appearances, winning
three FA Cups.
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West Ham midfielder explains the reasons behind his debut season struggles
in east London
The Hammers star is preparing for a big campaign this year
Football London
BYADAM JONES
09:56, 20 JUN 2017
West Ham star Sofiane Feghouli thinks that an early-season injury seriously
hampered his first season at the London Stadium - but that he will use his
experiences to his advantage next campaign. The midfielder picked up an
injury in a pre-season match against Juventus last season which kept him out
of the first month of the league season. The les to a rather mixed first
season in east London for the 27-year-old - who moved to West Ham from
Valencia last summer. Speaking recently whilst on international duty,
Feghouli has explained how the early injury affected him - and why he is
ready to kick on going in to the 2017/18 campaign. He said: "I had a very
good pre-season but unfortunately I hurt myself just before the first day of
the league against Juventus, a friendly. "I played, and in halfway in I
realised that I had seriously injured myself, which caused me a month and a
half of unavailability. It ruined my start to the season. "The league began
the following week, and it was necessary to get back in shape, then get back
into shape with a team already in place, and it's never easy. "In the
winter, I had a lot of offers and decided to have a frank discussion with
the coach about whether or not he was counting on me since I needed time to
demonstrate my value. "The coach reassured me, assuring me that I should not
leave and that he was counting on me. He even told me he was going to give
me my chance and that I had to keep working as I did. "It was a new
challenge with a new kind of football that I discovered. It's a year where I
have acquired a lot and will definitely be used for this season.
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Let's Talk: The inside scoop on Joe Hart and Kelechi Iheanacho to West Ham
from @ExWHUEmployee
ByStuartPosted on June 20, 2017
mfcwatch.co.uk
West Ham could sign as many as THREE Manchester City players this summer if
the rumour mill is to be believed. One of them, club legend Pablo Zabaleta,
has already arrived at the London Stadium on a free transfer, but youngster
Kelechi Iheanacho and England goalkeeper Joe Hart are also being heavily
linked.
To get an update on what is going on with those two, plus a rather tenuous
Wilfried Bony rumour, we caught up with the always well-informed
@ExWHUEmployee of The West Ham Way and asked him a few questions.
What's the status on Kelechi Iheanacho to West Ham? A few weeks ago it
looked a dead cert, now Leicester are odds-on at the bookies and things have
gone a little quiet. I understand City's demand for a buy-back clause could
be causing problems?
The problem with Iheanacho, like you say, is that City have demanded a
buy-back clause to be part of the deal. The player himself doesn't want to
leave and this is also seen as a way of appeasing the transfer. The buy-back
clause is said to be quite low and with Kelechi making it clear he only
really wants to stay in Britain so he can obtain citizenship – and this has
made us rethink our offer. A bid has been made and we are still keen but
further negotiations are still required.
West Ham are also keen on Olivier Giroud of Arsenal. Would it be the end of
your interest in Kelechi if you sign him up or is Bilic after multiple
strikers?
I think Bilic would like to sign both Giroud and Iheanacho. We struggled
massively last season for not having enough forward options throughout the
campaign, with first choice Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho spending more time
on the treatment table than the pitch! If both forwards could be obtained
for around £20m-£25m then I think we would sign both seeing as we offered
£35m for one forward last year.
City are struggling to find buyers for Joe Hart because of his excessive
wages, and there have been a few reports that West Ham would be happy to
take him on loan. What's your information on that?
West Ham are keen on Hart although City would have to pay a significant
percentage of his wages because on his current salary he would earn more
than double any of our players, which would shattered our wage structure!
Should this percentage be reduced I think we would make a move.
A pretty well known site in France, Foot Mercato, claims West Ham are one of
three clubs keen on Wilfried Bony. I know there has been some West Ham
interest in the past, but is that active?
I do not believe we are interested in Bony anymore. We have concerns that he
isn't the forward he once was at Swansea and this has been shown by a poor
loan spell at Stoke. With his wage demands as well it means the deal is a no
go for us at this point.
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REECE OXFORD HEADS TO GERMANY
by Iain Dale 20 Jun 2017 at 08:45
WTID
It's been confirmed that Reece Oxford is heading to German Bundesliga side
Borussia Moenchengladbach for a season long loan. I have mixed feelings
about this. If he gets a full season in the first team it's obvious that
will help his development, and that's to be welcomed. However, when he went
to Reading last season he only made five appearances. I struggled to
understand this as he ought to have been head and shoulders over what
Reading already had, but Jaap Stamm had other thoughts.
When Reece made that amazing debut against Arsenal in August 2015, where he
dominated the match, I think we all thought we had found the next Rio
Ferdinand. Since then, he's only made six further appearances, something
which leaves us all scratching our heads. It's not as if we haven't been
beset by injury in the positions he plays in, yet he's barely been given a
chance. The club obviously rate him, otherwise why would he already be on
£45k a week, but if he returns from Germany at the end of the season having
barely played, you just wonder where he goes from there.
For me, he and Reece Burke could be real stars of the future, but they need
game time. I'd be gutted if Burke went out on loan again. He looks ready to
challenge for a first team place and should be given the chance to shine.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, June 20
Daily WHUFC News - 20th June 2017
2017/18 Season Ticket Relocations and Waiting List update
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that the relocation period for Season Ticket holders who renewed has now ended, and the remaining available Season Tickets will now go on sale to our patient supporters on the Waiting List.
As previously advised, the record breaking renewal rate means that only a very limited number of seats are available, and not everyone on the Waiting List will be successful in obtaining a Season Ticket.
Supporters on the Waiting List will receive communication from the Ticket Office in the coming days and weeks.
Those in a position to be offered a Season Ticket will be allocated a window in line with your position on the Waiting List. You will receive an email notification of your window, advising when you can call the Ticket Office to purchase your Season Ticket.
Once all available Season Tickets are sold out, further information will be communicated on our official channels.
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Record numbers attend girls' trials for West Ham Ladies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies held a highly-successful Junior Trials on Sunday, with a record number of girls trying out for a place in the U14s & U16s teams.
Over 250 girls are signed up for trials this summer, with the programme continuing on Saturday June 24 for players in the U10s and U12s categories as the Ladies look to establish themselves as the Academy of Football in the women's game
First team manager Greg de Carnys and eight first team Ladies players were on hand at Beckton with advice for the youngsters, as they look to pass their knowledge down to the next generation of Hammers stars.
Hot on the heels of last week's announcement of Rich Energy coming on board as the Ladies' Official Energy Drink Partner, the excitement around the Club continues to build towards the start of their senior team's FA Women's Premier League campaign.
West Ham Ladies Managing Director Jack Sullivan said: "We were thrilled that a record number of girls have signed up for trials across the two dates, and it was great to see so many talented youngsters at Beckton on Sunday.
"We are planning meticulously across all levels at the Club to push ourselves forward, and I'm looking forward to seeing a number of the players who tried out at the weekend develop with us and push towards the first team over the coming years.
"These are exciting times for West Ham United Ladies and it's clear from the interest in playing for us that this excitement is shared right across the board."
Ladies General Manager Karen Ray added: "The FA have launched a new initiative that aims to double participation for females in football. At West Ham United Ladies we aim to provide a world-class talent pathway that encompasses the Club-wide philosophy and core values through our Junior Academy.
"An integral part of the five-year plan for West Ham United Ladies is to develop the opportunities for talented girls aged eight to 16. The purpose of the Ladies Junior Academy is to develop players and well balanced young people who feel supported, safe and enjoy being a West Ham United player.
"To see over double the young girls signing up and participating in our 2017/18 trials compared to last year really does show the belief, support and desire to play for the Club. We are not shy in admitting our desire to become the Academy of Football for girls over the coming years. This is just the very start of a successful journey and I am proud of all the hard work going on behind the scenes.
"Having so many young talented girls being supported by eight West Ham United Ladies senior players really does highlight the dedication and love everyone has for the game, and for the club. This is an exciting time for everyone involved."
Greg de Carnys, Ladies manager, commented: "It's great to see the amount of girls that turned up to the trials and it shows the progress being made by the Ladies department at West Ham United with record numbers trying out for a place. All of the football on the day was played in good spirits and at a high intensity, despite the unusually high temperatures.
"As the new Academy Director I am excited at the prospect of taking the Academy forward by developing young players, providing them with the appropriate level of challenge in games & training, and ultimately giving good young players a pathway to the highest level of Ladies football in this country, giving them the opportunity to break into the first team here at West Ham, rather than losing them to American scholarships for example. The youth academy is a massive part of getting the first team to to WSL1 and keeping them there for years to come."
There is still time to sign-up for trials in our U10 and U12 age groups, with the sessions taking place at the West Ham United Foundation in Beckton on Saturday June 24. Sign up now by clicking here.
Senior trials are also set for Beckton this week, with interested players invited to sign up for the Tuesday June 20 date by clicking here.
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Southampton fixture reversed
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that our second fixture of the 2017/18 Premier League season, against Southampton, has been reversed and will now be played at St Mary's on the weekend of Saturday 19 August. The switch means that Southampton will visit London Stadium in the corresponding home fixture on Saturday 31 March, 2018. With an international break scheduled after our away game against Newcastle United on August 26, our first Premier League home match next season will therefore be the visit of newly-promoted Huddersfield Town on the weekend of Saturday 9 September.
However, ALL fixtures are still subject to change, with the Sky TV and BT Sport live televised fixtures for the opening two months of the season set to be confirmed in early July, and supporters are urged to bear this in mind when making any travel arrangements for fixtures.
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Joint-Chairman offers reward for info on attempted break-in
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has offered a £25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of a serial burglar, dubbed the Essex Spiderman.
The individual is alleged to have committed over 50 burglaries in the Essex area since Christmas 2016, spreading across Chigwell, Ongar and Brentwood, targeting mostly watches and jewellery.
The serial offender attempted to burgle Sullivan's house on Sunday 18 June and, although the attempt was unsuccessful, the Joint-Chairman has encouraged anyone with information relating to the Essex Spiderman's identity to come forward in a bid to stop the spree.
Sullivan said: "To have someone attempt break into your home is an awful experience, and I hope this reward will help bring the individual responsible to justice and prevent others going through the same ordeal."
Anyone who has any relevant information should email confidential@westhamunited.co.uk with as much detail as possible, which will then be shared with the police.
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TRANSFER BOOM OR BUST THIS WINDOW
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2017 AT 8:10PM
TheWestHamWayc.o.uk
Written by Steven McCarthy
Make no mistake, this is a huge window for us!
As a football club we managed to avoid relegation in our first season at our new home and being honest, it was touch and go for us at times and something that many of us were really fearing! We were told numerous times how relegation would be disastrous for us, and how we would be using the best retractable seating to make the London Stadium feel like home. But regardless of your views on the end product for the venue, I think a great transfer window could and really could have helped build the foundations to cement The London Stadium as our home.
How?
Last season we were met with months of rumours and pursuits of big name strikers, promises of 20 goal a season players and bids of numbers unlike anything we had ever previously seen as a club! In the end, there was nothing even remotely close to this, and I find myself wondering just how much that effected the fans and the transition into the London Stadium. When you have a player or players of quality, then every single week, everything around the club seems that little bit better!
We only have to look at the Payet effect of his time here and how when we knew what a quality player he was, detracted from the sadness of leaving The Boleyn. And it made the atmosphere at every game home and away that little bit more exciting knowing that we had such quality on the pitch! Imagine if we had gone into the new stadium with a Michy, Bacca or a Lacazette leading the line…
Fans would be going into every match with a sense of optimism, the atmosphere would be one of excitement, and the supporters are more likely to make there voices heard. I think ending up with a striker who was less of a "name" and let's face it, quality!
In the form of Zaza, hurt us to a point that we only really saw come to boil with a certain Snake.
Now what that slimey creature did is well documented, and we can never say for sure wether improved results on the pitch would have kept Payet happy. But if we had signed a big striker, someone prolific, who would really make us a scary prospect for teams, I think you can begin to call it into question. However what I do know is that as fans, having a quality striker would have created so much more positivity in and around the club and Stadium. Problems on pitch can even seem smaller when you know that you have that player up top who can knick you a point or two at any moment! Tevez is probably the player I think epitomises this for me as a fan during my time going to matches and really beginning to understand football. We were having a terrible season, but when Tevez was on the pitch everything seemed that bit better!
Pressure on the whole team is lifted somewhat when you know that you have an outlet or a spark in the side. And not just from the stands, if you have a prolific striker then issues such as Goal Keeping errors and the invisible Right Back are made that little bit smaller. But only if you have a striker who consistently produces! I am not saying that they have to scare every game, but they certainly need to be fit to play the majority of them.
Sakho is a lost cause, I think if we cannot sell him which seems the sad case, then we simply need to terminate his contract.
And in my opinion, I would sell Carroll as soon as possible. I love the work rate he shows and I cannot criticise him one bit as a footballer, but I simply cannot see him playing football in anything other than a cameo role from here on.
The Andy Carroll injury guess game was horrible for us last season. We all know what he is capable of on his day!
But when you have only 3 strikers with Premier League goals and experience in your ranks, one of who'm suffers a nasty long term injury at the start of the season, another who simply seems to be made of tracing paper, and somebody who seems to be as toxic in and around the grounds as he is behind the wheel of a Lamborghini, then you really lose that optimism for Match Day!
This Window is a chance for us to undo the mistakes we made and bring that optimism back! We need to spend and spend well, which unfortunately in this market means spending big! 25 million for Iheanacho, 20 or so for Giroud and a loan with a fee for Michy seems like the best options, 45-50 million is not a lot in todays market for a team looking to finish in the top half. Which I know, sounds absolutely daft, but to put it into context Leicester City spent 30 million on Slimani and Everton are spending over 50 million on Pickford and Klaassen.
If we go into next season with a dream striker selection of Giroud, Iheanacho and Michy can you imagine the buzz each week?
I am not saying for a second that I believe we will get all 3, but if ever there was a chance for the owners to right the wrongs of last Summer and take a big step toward making the Olympic Stadium a proper new home for us, this is it!
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MY FIXTURE PREDICTIONS FOR THE NEW SEASON
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2017 AT 8:57PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written Adam Leatherbarrow @_ldesign
Hello you and welcome to my first article for The West Ham Way. Firstly, I'd like to express my pleasure to write for such an established fan site and to work alongside EX. Sites such as "TWHW" gives us the platform to be able to share my thoughts and opinions on a club we all share a love for. I hope you enjoy my maiden article for the site and hopefully will be able to post a lot more often.
If you're unaware of me, then please allow me to introduce myself to you. I'm a blooded West Ham fan brought up from Romford, Essex. My main profession has actually nothing to do with football or West Ham, I'm currently an Architectural Designer and have been for the past decade working on residential schemes from bespoke extensions to large master planning developments. Apart from the wife, Architecture takes up a huge part of my life. Any spare time I get, I share my passion with the beautiful game and West Ham. My main "goal" (excuse the pun) in my life, is to be able to be a main design consultant on Stadia Architectural projects; being able to merge my love for Sport and Architecture on a more regular basis.
An interesting fact about myself is that I'm the FIRST and ONLY person to have designed a stadium (single handily) purely for Three-Sided Football – a take on the conventional modern game we see today. I've featured in Four-Four-Two Magazine and I have also been on TalkSport talking about my design! Cool eh?!
For the past years in my spare time, I have been writing all things West Ham related on fan site West Ham World talking about Transfer Rumours, Transfer Opinions, Game previews, Kit reviews and statistical articles. Some have received good reviews, some have fired up fans for games and some have infuriated fans… All reactions (good and bad) is always a positive thing with my articles because it shows the passion within our fan base, even if it is keyboard bashing!
So let's start with an easy article… a breakdown of the 2017-18 Fixtures!
The fixtures have been out for a few days now and some interesting dates have been highlighted. 12th August we visit Manchester United to open our campaign and it's not the first time we have played a top 6 side on the opening day. We played Chelsea (lost 2-1) last Season, Arsenal (won 0-2) before that and Spurs (lost 1-0) before that, so it's safe to say that we have a tough opener! Manchester United do however start slow so maybe playing one of our hardest games on day one might not be as bad as we think.
Due to the Athletics being held at the London Stadium, West Ham first three games will be away from home, which means that the team will be making a total round trip of 1,222 miles in the first three weeks of the season! Playing the first three games away also means that Slaven will make his 100th appearance as boss at Newcastle. If we can get a minimum 4 points, I think the club will have done well considering the amount of travelling they will do. After an extensively travelled set of fixtures, there will be a well-timed international break between 28th August to 5th September where England will play Malta on 1st September and Slovakia on 4th September.
Once the first international break of the season has occurred, West Ham will FINALLY get to play their first home game of the season against newly promoted Huddersfield Town. The month of September will be kind to West Ham as we will be playing 75% of our monthly fixtures at home. The only away game of the month will be playing a well drilled Tony Pulis West Bromwich Albion side. We hardly get a good result at The Hawthorns apart from the win in the 2015-16 season. Hopefully the long break before and a solid home performance against Huddersfield could put us in a good run of form early in the season. Games followed by Tottenham and Swansea at home will put the premier league schedule on hold for another international break. With home advantage for the majority of our games, I would like to think that we can pick up at least seven more points.
The break will run from 2nd to 10th October where England will play two world cup qualifier matches against Slovenia and Lithuania. These will be the final two competitive games for the national side and will hopefully have secured qualification for the 2018 World Cup.
"England Qualify for the World Cup" Hooray!… another summer of disappointment next year it is! But before all that we restart the season by going to Turf Moor to face Burnley. ***Interesting Statistic Alert!!!*** with Sunderland and Middlesbrough playing Championship football next season, Burnley will be second furthest distance the players will have to travel for an away game. The team secured 3 points last season with goals from Feghouli and Ayew with an injury hit team. hopefully the squad will be at near full fitness and be able to have a more comfortable win this time round. West Ham return to the London Stadium to face another Premier League debutant in Brighton and Hove Albion. Premier League boys tend to play off adrenaline for the first few months, as we've seen previously. Brighton could be a banana skin fixture and with them managed by Stratford born Ex-Hammer Chris Houghton, I can see that particular team turning up to cause an upset. The following week we play Crystal Palace and this time without an ex-hammers boss in charge. The past two seasons we've played against Pardew and Allardyce taking all three points on both occasions. Who knows what will happen with Palace, it will be one of those games where a certain Jonathan Calleri signs for them in the summer, scores a hat trick against us and sticks 2 fingers up at the board… or maybe we'll win 3-1 again? October is a funny sort of month where we could get maximum points from the fixtures. In my personal opinion I think 4 points would be acceptable.
We start November playing at home where a Champions League Liverpool side could show signs of exhaustion early in the season. Playing midweek games in between fixtures, could mean that this game would be either a Saturday night game or a Sunday lunchtime game. Revenge on the cards? Hope so! This fixture puts the premier league season on hold against, as there is another international break and final one of 2017 before the 2018 World Cup draw on 1st December in Moscow, Russia. Watford away next in the league and this fixture will be the start of the toughest run in of the season, where there will be eleven games played without a weekend break. West Ham could rack up an astonishing 1,960 miles on the road by playing away 6 times between November and New Year's Day. For me, the summer transfer window is key for winter fixture congestion, wise spending on experienced players is what will help the club overcome the 11 games that will determine where West Ham will finish up in the league. The Watford away game is a "bogey" game as is the following fixture against Leicester City, where we have failed to get a point at home in the past 2 seasons. They say things come in three's and we played Everton away to complete the Triple Bogey run in for November. Like October, 4 points is the minimum we should achieve and I hope the players realise that the November games are all games we have to win. We have to start beating these type of teams to push us up the league. Everton, Watford and Leicester have all dented our progress in previous seasons and it is time this stopped.
We start December knowing that England are in the Group of Death for the upcoming World Cup and we all realise that winning the trophy is not going to happen. But back to reality and we face Manchester City away. If I was Bilic I would seriously consider setting up a base camp for the Everton and Man City games due to the amount of travelling involved over the space of four days, we're looking at over 900 miles, would be great to cut that down in half and use the games as one trip. It would be worth trying to get in touch with a Football or Rugby League side in the area to see if they would share their facilities for a few days to save on travelling. Maybe training sessions with a rugby team might toughen the players up a bit. Afterwards we then have two back to back Home London derbies against Chelsea and Arsenal, two games where the atmosphere will be electric under the lights on a dark cold winters afternoon. An away trip to Stoke City followed by a home game to Newcastle, ensures the midway point of the season.
Controversially, as reported by ExWHUemployee, the away boxing day game looks set to be a regular fixture and this season we go to Bournemouth. With a gentleman's agreement put in place by the club and neighbouring Westfield Shopping Centre, it appears that the boxing day sales are more important for an area that has been enriched with various sport in the past five years. How ironic… if it wasn't for the Olympics, there wouldn't have been a shopping centre, now the shops are shunning sport. West Ham finally go to Wembley in 2017, but it will be a league fixture against Tottenham Hotspur as they make the home of football their temporary base. The thought of West Ham beating Tottenham at Wembley sounds great, however it all sounds too good to be true. December is a hard-hitting month to play seven games in four weeks but I feel the club can look to achieve between 9-12 points, which would satisfy every hammer at the moment.
We start the new year at home playing WBA on new year's day, which will be played on Monday and the FA CUP weekend follows. West Ham make their first trip to Huddersfield in the premier league and in typical West Ham fashion, a win could be guaranteed but a loss is on the cards. Back to back home games against Bournemouth and Crystal Palace could be a blessing in disguise as we look to push up the table. January could be a good month for us, especially if we get a decent draw in the cup, I expect a minimum of 7 points, however I think we could get a maximum 12 points from those four fixtures.
We kick of February by going to Brighton away and again like the Huddersfield game, we could see a slip up on the south coast. Watford at home follows and again revenge for the 4-2 defeat of last season will be on the minds of most West Ham players. An Away trip to Liverpool could see West Ham go three consecutive games undefeated at Anfield for the first time ever, something even my old man hasn't seen in his lifetime! February could be a tricky month and if there hasn't been significant investment in the January transfer window, we could be set for a dip in form and not gaining many points. Minimum three points expected, whether its three draws or 1 win, 3 points is needed, we cannot go through a run of games without winning. Last season we saw three poor runs of results where we hadn't won for six games…. this just cannot happen again.
Spring has sprung and we go over to "daffodil land" to play Swansea City. If Paul Clement is still in charge, I cannot see us winning although The Liberty Stadium has been good to us in the past. Three Home games in a row for West Ham as Burnley make their 508 mile round trip to the London Stadium and we could look to expose Burnley's tiredness. Manchester United and Southampton follow with the hammers looking to improve on last season's meetings. Four games in March and with 3 home games, the club could should look to get a minimum 8 points and go undefeated in the month.
April in my opinion the toughest month for West Ham as we start the month playing Chelsea away. we could put in a performance and come away with a point and we normally do well at Chelsea's place later on in the season, so maybe a shock could be on the cards and denting their titles hopes. A home game at Stoke the following week could be our final win of the season considering the teams left to play. Arsenal away and Man City at home are two games I'm not hopeful for. I predict that we will get 3 points, however if the club come back with 4-6 points that will be a good couple of results to see out the season.
The month of May sees two bogey sides return, West Ham travel to The King Power Stadium to try and get 3 points against Leicester City and we end the season at home against Everton. The final two games could go either way but 2 points could be enough and seeing out the season not losing, would end the season on a positive.
Upon reflection of the fixtures for the upcoming 2017-18 season, there are significant parts of the season that will influence West Ham's final position. The start of the season indicates that the club need to be more affective away from home by gaining as many points as possible to upset the big clubs. The summer transfer window needs to address the eleven game run in during the winter period, by getting in experience players on a short term basis to prevent the squad being overused and inflict injuries. The club have to eliminate the potential stress of player playing through the pain barrier, we've seen Carroll, Sakho, Antonio, Noble, Ogbonna and Reid all play with injuries which has affected the team's performances. April 2018 could ruin all the hard work in the earlier parts of the season, games against Chelsea, Arsenal, Man City and Everton are ones that could either stop us gaining a European place, or they could relegate us.
My season prediction is that the current West Ham team (before any transfers have occurred as of this publication date) will get around 51 points this season, which on average would secure a top 10 finish. For Slaven Bilic to keep his job as West Ham manager, he would have to match the points tally of the 2015-16 season, otherwise his contract will not be renewed. I love Slaven as West Ham Boss and if he doesn't improve on his ratio at the club, it hates me to say it but then he has to leave. West Ham need a manager who is a "1 win from 2" rather than "1 win from 3" type of guy. Slaven is on the edge in terms of performances and his passion for the club is what is giving him another chance. His win ratio at West Ham is a mere 38%… 11% lower than his average and 13% below his Besiktas ratio (51%). For west ham to start considering themselves at a top 6 club, challenging for European football, they have to start winning more games, it's as simple as that.
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A GOALKEEPING DILEMMA
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2017 AT 8:44PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @farehamhammer
I'm not going to put on a vest, hold a placard up and march to Downing Street and start shouting: "Randolph MUST go!" However one must accept, Darren Randolph, needs replacing. He is a poor goalkeeper. When Robert Green, was our custodian in goal, I would brick myself every time the opposition crossed the halfway line because 9 out ten times, it would land in the back of our net. Green was so bad at one stage, I thought he was part of a Middle East betting syndicate! I remember one game against Hull, when they had two shots but scored THREE goals! One he virtually threw into his own net. Anything could happen with Green in goal, from kicking the ball straight to the opposition, getting beaten at the near post and of course he feared crosses more than Satan. More often than not, the opposition would be out played, then have a shot and score. As a result heads would drop, and we would lose games we should have won.
When a team has no confidence in their goalkeeper, it makes the whole team jittery. I am afraid to say, that is the case when Darren Randolph is in goal. It's not just a West Ham 'thing', Randolph has been just as poor for Ireland. The man is pathetic at dealing with crosses, gets beaten at the near post, poor place keeping, with the ball often going straight to a nearby striker's feet and like Green, capable of the most outrageous of errors. Having to rely on Darren Randolph at some point next season will cost West Ham matches, so we will have to look at the goalkeeping position very carefully. I like Adrian, although he does have the odd rush of blood, he is a good goalkeeper and his defence is far less jittery when he is in goal. The clean sheets we started getting towards the end of last season, tells a story.
I have seen the clamour to sign Joe Hart, apparently Manchester City are willing to pay, £75000 per week of his £175 000 per week salary. The problem I have is this: Yes, Joe Hart is a good goalkeeper, also prone to the odd error but he is certainly NOT an exceptional goalkeeper. In an ideal world one would have, both Hart and Adrian, as our first team goalkeepers, but that is not going to happen. If you sign Hart, both Adrian and Randolph will be off. Adrian, a Spanish international, will not be prepared to sit on the bench twiddling his thumbs with the World Cup in mind. He will be off and he won't be short of suitors, who could blame him if he did so? There is not that much between Joe Hart and Adrian …accept wages, with Hart probably earning about £125 000 per week more. How do you think that would go down, not just with Adrian, but the rest of the squad as well? Time to say no to Hart and invest the £100 000 in wages elsewhere in the team.
So what do we do about our no 2 goalkeeper if we manage to flog Randolph? Even the big clubs don't have star second choice goalkeepers, the key is getting a steady goalkeeper as your number 2, far easier said than done. We have been linked with Norwich City's John Ruddy, with groans of not another free! Let's look at the reason why Ruddy was released. Yes, he did not have a great season last season, but neither did Norwich City as a whole. He was not offered a new contract, simply because Norwich could not afford him. However make no mistake, John Ruddy is hugely popular with the Carrow Road crowd, having produced several outstanding performances over the years. Indeed they produced a big banner at his final game saying: "Thank You for everything big John"! A big man is John Ruddy indeed! I remember Didier Drogba being laid out cold after colliding with big John. I would personally welcome Big John to The London Stadium, an experienced and steady goalkeeper, who won't let The Club down if called upon. Hart at £100,000 per week? Jog on son! No, Adrian at number 1 with big John at number 2.We're more than a football club, we're a way of life!
COYI!!
Farehamhammer!!!!
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Kouyate unsure what future holds
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate say that last season was the toughest the club had experienced for some considerable time - and that he is unsure what the future holds for him. The experienced Senegal international, who was signed by Sam Allardyce in 2014 admitted that the 2016/17 campaign was his toughest since leaving Anderlecht to join the Hammers.
And when asked whether he was likely to remain at the Olympic Stadium for the forseeable future, Kouyate's reply was non-commital. "I do not know for the moment," he told Sen360FR. "I am on holiday and not taking care of certain things. "Every player dreams of going as high as possible. There are certain things that are not said publicly. What counts is that at the resumption [of pre-season training], I will be with West Ham. The rest, I do not control."
Kouyate also revealed that the departure of Dimitri Payet played a major role in the team's indifferent form last season, despite reports suggesting the players were happy to see the French international leave. "There have been many ups and downs this season,"he added. "This is the hardest we have seen in recent years, but luckily we have secured survival. "We fought to stay in the Premier League. I have never experienced such a situation because it is harder to fight when you are at the bottom of the ladder. Before each game, we were obliged to keep one eye on the teams immediately below us [in the table]. "It was difficult especially after the departure of our star, Dimitri Payet. We had to put in place a different style of play because before all we played for him. Now we had to play as a team. "His departure was of a family nature. It was difficult for him. He did not find the love he hoped for at the club and since the family sometimes decides, he did not hesitate. "He preferred to go back to France. It is his choice that we respect. I spoke to him on the phone two days ago. He is happy and well. As for us, it took some time but in the end we clicked."
Kouyate also revealed that he had been unhappy at being asked to fill in at right back by Slaven Bilic - especially when a qualified full back was available. "We lost our right-hand side and some defenders who could evolve at that level," he recalled. "It was then that the coach asked me to help out. "Initially, I was reluctant to complain when he told me it was just for a game. It was just after the African Cup. But after the third match, there was a defender available. Nevertheless, Bilic played me there me again. "Not only did I lose my bearings, but I was not good on the field. I was stuck in my evolution. Even the coach realised this. I did not feel good, so I took my responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue [in that position]."
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Hoffenheim want Hammers midfielder
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
Hoffenheim are the latest Bundesliga club to be linked with a move for Havard Nordtveit. KUMB reported last week how the Norwegian international had refused to rule out a return to Germany, despite having served just one year of a five-year contract with West Ham.
And now Hoffenheim, who recently lost midfielders Sebastian Rudy and Pirmin Schwegler are understood to have indicated an interest in taking Nordtveit back to the European mainland. Hamburg, Bayer Leverkusen and Wolfsburg have also been closely linked with a move for the 26-year-old.
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Oxford in Germany for talks
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
Reece Oxford has arrived in Germany ahead of a season-long loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old had been widely tipped to feature in Slaven Bilic's first team squad next term but will instead feature in the Bundesliga for Die Fohlen, should talks progress without any hitches. Oxford flew into Germany earlier today for talks with Monchengladbach who are seeking a replacement for Chelsea centre-half Andreas Christensen. The young Dane has spent the last two seasons on loan at Borussia Park. West Ham have no intention of selling Oxford, who spent the latter half of last season on loan with Championship side Reading, on a permanent basis.
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West Ham youngster Reece Oxford seals Bundesliga move to Borussia Monchengladbach
The Hammers starlet's management have shared a picture of him being unveiled with Foals sporting director Max Eberl
The Mirror
BYJACK RATHBORN
20:08, 19 JUN 2017UPDATED20:19, 19 JUN 2017
Reece Oxford has joined Borussia Monchengladbach from West Ham, according to his management. As first revealed by the Mirror weeks ago, the Hammers were keen to send Oxford out on a season-long loan with the Foals to gain first team experience and Colossal Sports Management have posted a picture of the player alongside Gladbach's sporting director Max Eberl to confirm the deal. The 18-year-old follows Chelsea youngster Andreas Christensen in moving from the Premier League to the Borussia Park in order to develop as a player. Oxford, who signed a new deal last season until 2021, is versatile and can play in centre-midfield or at centre-back. After a couple of appearances under Slaven Bilic in the Europa League qualifiers, Oxford's involvement in the first team was cut short, leading to a five-month loan spell with Reading. The second-youngster player to start a Premier League game against Arsenal in August 2015, aged 16 years and 198 days, the Hammers have held him back since. Gladbach have a fine record in nurturing young talent and offered Christensen 81 games in a two-year loan spell, which will give West Ham optimism that Oxford will be handed a similar amount of game time.
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West Ham set to confirm Reece Oxford loan deal to Borussia Monchengladbach
JAMES BENGE
Evening Stadnard
West Ham defender Reece Oxford has all but completed his loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old will join the Bundesliga side on a season-long loan and completed his medical earlier on Tuesday. Oxford signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at the London Stadium in December before heading out to Championship side Reading, where he made only five appearances under Jaap Stam in what was a frustrating spell away from his parent club. Gladbach will hope Oxford can fill the space vacated by Danish international Andreas Christensen, who has returned to Chelsea after spending two seasons on loan at Borussia Park.
Despite his second loan departure this year hopes remain high that Oxford, an England Under-19 international, can establish himself in the West Ham senior side.
Slaven Bilic handed Oxford his Premier League debut at the age of just 16 years and 198 days in a 2-0 win at Arsenal in August 2015, a match in which Oxford won rave reviews for his exceptional marshalling of Mesut Ozil. That performance alerted a string of top sides to Oxford's quality and prior to signing his £1million-a-year extension at West Ham he was coveted by the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United.
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Reece Oxford: West Ham defender to join Borussia Monchengladbach on loan
By David Ornstein
BBC Sport
West Ham defender Reece Oxford is close to completing a season-long loan move to Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old, who spent five months on loan at Reading last season, has had a medical ahead of a move to Germany. Oxford was the second-youngest player to start a Premier League match when he played against Arsenal, aged 16 years and 198 days, in August 2015.
He signed a new four-and-a-half-year deal at West Ham in December 2016.
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Kouyate hits out at as he admits he doesn't know what his West Ham future holds
The midfielder gave the explosive quotes in an interview and it appears he hasn't been too happy
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
16:55, 19 JUN 2017
Cheikhou Kouyate has lashed out at manager Slaven Bilic for playing him at right back last season and added he doesn't know what the future holds. The surprising comments came in an interview the Senegal midfielder conducted with Sen360FR on Wednesday as he admitted last season was his toughest at the club. The departure of Dimitri Payet contributed to that in Kouyate's eyes, but him playing out of position, when right backs were in the squad, irked him the most. Kouyate said: "We lost our right-hand side and some defenders who could evolve at that level. It was then that the coach asked me to help out. "Initially, I was reluctant to complain when he told me it was just for a game. It was just after the African Cup. But after the third match, there was a defender available. Nevertheless, Bilic played me there me again. "Not only did I lose my bearings, but I was not good on the field. I was stuck in my evolution. Even the coach realised this. I did not feel good, so I took my responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue [in that position]."
When asked about his future at the London Stadium, Kouyate was very non-comittal He added: ""I do not know for the moment. I am on holiday and not taking care of certain things. "Every player dreams of going as high as possible. There are certain things that are not said publicly. What counts is that at the resumption [of pre-season training], I will be with West Ham. The rest, I do not control."
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WEST HAM READY TO BID €10M FOR SILVAN WIDMER
MICHAEL OLIVER @MichaelOIiver
ReadWestHam
Despite recruiting Pablo Zabaleta from Manchester City on a free transfer earlier this month, West Ham are still reportedly in the market for a right-back. According to Italian source Il Messaggero (h/t Sport Witness), the Hammers are said to be ready to make a €10m bid to sign Udinese fullback Silvan Widmer this summer. Since arriving in Serie A four years ago from Granada, Widmer has been a regular in the Udinese side, making 28 appearances last season, providing four assists. Able to play at right-back or in a wing-back role, Widmer is an ideal fit on paper for a West Ham side that have been rotating between a back four and back three formation. The 24-year-old is capped nine times by Switzerland but a move for him doesn't really make much sense. Slaven Bilic brought in Zabaleta on a two-year deal to provide competition but more importantly mentorship to Sam Byram who is still developing his game, so throwing Widmer into the mix does raise eyebrows, perhaps regarding the future of the former Leeds standout. West Ham still need to add to their defensive ranks but another right-back isn't the right move in our minds.
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Hamburg struggling to finance deal to take Havard Nordtveit back to Germany from West Ham
The midfielder is set for an exit from the Hammers this summer but one destination might be ruled out
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
13:00, 19 JUN 2017
Hamburg want to take Havard Nordtveit off West Ham's hands this summer but they are struggling to match his wage demands, meaning any move could collapse, according to reports in Germany. The Norwegian midfielder had a disappointing campaign at the Hammers following his free transfer from Borussia Moenchengladbach last summer, signing a five-year deal. He was also handed a reported £55,000 a week wage by West Ham when he signed, in the upper echelon of earners at the club at the time. However, it appears a move hasn't quite worked out in England, but the man who made 16 appearances for the club last season is adamant he wants to stay in east London. He said: "At the moment, I let the speculation lie. "I still have four years left on his contract with West Ham. And I'm getting ready to take part in preparations for the new season."
Hamburg, Bayer Leverkusen, Hoffenheim and Wolfsburg are all reportedly interested in his signature and it's Hamburg who have made the first move, according to Germna outlet Bild, but they are struggling to match his earnings.
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West Ham striker Enner Valencia lined up for Tigres move - sources
1:13 PM BST
Peter O'Rourke
ESPN
West Ham United are ready to sell Enner Valencia to Mexican side Tigres UANL, sources close to the London club have told ESPN FC. Valencia, 27, spent last season on loan at Everton, but they have opted against making the move permanent. The Ecuador international made five starts in the Premier League during his stint at Everton and scored just three goals in 30 appearances in all competitions.
Valencia is well down the pecking order at West Ham and manager Slaven Bilic is prepared to let him move on in order to generate funds for his own transfer plans. The striker is highly regarded in Mexico after starring for Pachuca before joining West Ham in 2014. Valencia is keen on a move away in search of regular first-team football and the opportunity to return closer to Ecuador makes Tigres an attractive proposition for the striker.
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West Ham may face battle from Man Utd for Joe Hart - and Hammers also want Olivier Giroud
Jason Burt, chief football correspondent
19 JUNE 2017 • 11:09AM
Telepgrah.co.uk
West Ham United are keen to sign Joe Hart and will press ahead with a move for Olivier Giroud if Arsenal sign any new strikers. The deal for Hart would most likely be a season-long loan and it is understood that the England international wants to make the move to West Ham. An intriguing complication could be if Manchester United sell David De Gea to Real Madrid as it is believed that manager Jose Mourinho is genuinely interested in signing Hart. However, it is extremely difficult to see Manchester City allowing the 30-year-old to cross over to their city rivals.
A move to West Ham makes more sense and the club would regard the signing as a big statement of intent ahead of the new season with Hart also looked upon as a strong character and a potential leader for the squad. The fact that he is English is also an attraction to West Ham. Hart recently admitted that he does not know where his future lies after the end of his season-long loan to the Italian club, Torino, given he is not wanted at City. "I need an offer first and then I need to work out my options if I have choices. I want to be playing at the highest possible level, pushing myself," Hart said after England's recent World Cup qualifier away to Scotland. Hart also knows that his position as England No 1 is under serious threat with Jack Butland fit again and Jordan Pickford, who has just completed a £30million move to Everton, pushing hard to be promoted to the senior squad from the England Under-21s. The scale of Hart's wages would make a permanent move to West Ham very difficult, but both parties would consider a loan agreement, it seems, although that also depends on the fee demanded by City. Ideally Hart would want a permanent deal to kick-start his career and settle his long-term future and sources suggest that could even be offered by United if they relent and allow De Gea to seal his dream move to Real Madrid.
Mourinho would love to take a player from City, where Hart was popular among the fans but unwanted by manager Pep Guardiola, but it remains highly unlikely that a deal between the two clubs is agreed under any circumstance. West Ham are attempting to re-shape their squad this summer after a disappointing first campaign at the London Stadium and Giroud's future is also being closely monitored.
Arsenal are bidding to sign Giroud's French international team-mate Alexandre Lacazette and have also continued to track the future of Kylian Mbappe at Monaco, although Real Madrid are the favourites to sign him should he leave. If Arsenal make any signings then it appears that Giroud may be available for transfer. The 30-year-old will not want to become a marginalised player at Arsenal – and he only made 11 Premier League starts last season – especially with the World Cup in Russia next summer. However, if Alexis Sanchez leaves Arsenal, with Bayern Munich his most likely destination, Arsene Wenger may not want to allow Giroud to also go. West Ham want to improve their attacking options, in particular, and have also registered an interest previously in City's Kelechi Iheanacho, but it appears he is too expensive.
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West Ham should accept Iheanacho's buyback fee and focus on the present
HITC
Vincent Ralph
West Ham United had been linked with the Manchester City youngster but things have gone quiet after a reported impasse. According to a report from Own Goal Nigeria, West Ham United walked away from discussions regarding the potential transfer of Manchester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho after the two sides could not agree on the buyback clause. City are said to have wanted a fee that was not acceptable to the Hammers, but given their need for additional quality fire-power, Slaven Bilic's side should be focusing on the here and now.
Such is Iheanacho's ability in front of goal that City were never going to allow him to leave unless they could buy him back for a decent fee if he goes on to fulfil his potential. West Ham would, like any club, want to sign a player they know is theirs for as long as they want them. However when it comes to signing the most prolific young strikers in European football, it is rarely that easy.
West Ham could walk away from the deal and hope to sign another striker or two. The problem is, as their fans will tell you it is easier said than done. Last summer Bilic's side was linked with some of the most exciting forwards in the game. They ended up with Simone Zaza and Jonathan Calleri. Such is City's strength in depth and the likelihood of additional new recruits both this summer and in future transfer windows, that they are unlikely to activate Iheanacho's buyback clause any time soon. That means West Ham could have a prolific young forward for the next few years and when you consider City are willing to sell, the Hammers should act before it is too late. The 20-year-old scores almost every time he starts and he is only going to get better in the years to come. West Ham may know they only have him for a limited time but they are likely to make their money back, and even if City are pushing for a cut-price return, he will more than pay the difference if he performs to his best ability for however long he is at the London Stadium. Iheancho is an exciting yet achievable target, and West Ham need to act on one of those or risk another summer of bitter disappointment.
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Key figure shares interesting advantage West Ham have this season over past two years
HITC
Antony Martin
West Ham United will not have the Europa League to contend with this season. Hammers' newly appointed Head of Medical Services Gary Lewin wrote a column for the club's official website, and highlighted a huge advantage the squad have this time around, over last year's pre-season. Lewin, the former Arsenal and England physio, has been in his role at West Ham for three weeks, and what with their horrendous injury record last term, he arguably faces the toughest challenge of his career at the London Stadium. Getting to the bottom of ongoing issues for the likes of Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho will surely feature highly on Lewin's priority list. And the east Londoner's fitness supremo told WHUFC.com how a pre-season schedule without the inclusion of Europa League football could prove to be a major plus for the Hammers as far as their hopes for a successful Premier League campaign are concerned:
"For the last two summers, the Club have had early competitive football in the Europa League, and that can be tough. It's not so much the early start, but more the unknown aspect of it when you are planning – who are we playing, where are we travelling. That can make it difficult to plan individual programmes for players who may be at different levels of fitness and conditioning. This year we can set in stone what we are doing, and have a pre-conceived plan all the way through to August 12. We can all be on the same page, with the same levels of fitness and, hopefully, have everyone relatively injury-free and ready to go."
West Ham's pre-season will consist of training camps in both Austria and Germany, before they head to Iceland to take on Pep Guardiola's Manchester City one week before the start of the 2017/18 Premier League campaign. And Hammers fans will be looking for a better start to the season than the one their club experienced last term.
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West Ham defender Reece Oxford touches down in Germany ahead of Borussia Monchengladbach loan deal
Reece Oxford is tipped to become the future West Ham and England captain
Defender is set to head to Borussia Monchengladbach on loan next season
The 18-year-old touched down in Germany on Monday for advanced talks
Chelsea's Andreas Christensen has spent the last two seasons on loan at club
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:26, 19 June 2017 | UPDATED: 09:26, 19 June 2017
West Ham starlet Reece Oxford has arrived in Germany to complete a season-long loan deal to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old has flown over for advanced talks with the Bundesliga club and is expected to agree a deal for the entirety of next season. Oxford is tipped as a future West Ham and England captain, but the Hammers want their teenager to gain regular first team football next season.
Chelsea centre half Andreas Christensen has spent the last two seasons on loan at Monchengladbach, nurturing a reputation as one of the most promising defenders in Europe. And the German club believe Oxford can make a similar impression in the Bundesliga next season.
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West Ham United's Angelo Ogbonna wants Italy return
HITC
Shane Callaghan
The West Ham United man wants to re-join an Italian club, according to reports from Italy. Il Secolo XIX has reported that West Ham United defender Angelo Ogbonna wants a return to Italy this summer. The Italian newspaper suggests that Serie A outfit Sampdoria will consider the 29-year-old centre-back as an option to potentially replace highly-rated Milan Skriniar, who has been linked with a switch to Inter Milan. And Il Secolo XIX goes on to state that the Italy international - signed from Juventus in 2015 - wants a return to his homeland. If true then it will come as a blow to West Ham after his importance to the team was underlined in the second half of the 2016-17 campaign. Ogbonna missed half of last season with a knee injury sustained in January, and the Irons struggled in his absence.
He underwent knee surgery following an injury in a 3-1 win over Middlesbrough, and Slaven Bilic's side managed to win only one of their subsequent nine Premier League outings in a run of horrendous form which included six defeats. He should, in theory, be ready for the start of next season after starting West Ham's 2-1 win at Burnley on the final day of the campaign and Bilic should do everything in his power to ensure that his centre-back is still at the club. Then again, his five-month layoff might have had adverse affects on his game. Jose Fonte is a capable defender but the last five months of last season proved that he is not in Ogbonna's league.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that the relocation period for Season Ticket holders who renewed has now ended, and the remaining available Season Tickets will now go on sale to our patient supporters on the Waiting List.
As previously advised, the record breaking renewal rate means that only a very limited number of seats are available, and not everyone on the Waiting List will be successful in obtaining a Season Ticket.
Supporters on the Waiting List will receive communication from the Ticket Office in the coming days and weeks.
Those in a position to be offered a Season Ticket will be allocated a window in line with your position on the Waiting List. You will receive an email notification of your window, advising when you can call the Ticket Office to purchase your Season Ticket.
Once all available Season Tickets are sold out, further information will be communicated on our official channels.
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Record numbers attend girls' trials for West Ham Ladies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies held a highly-successful Junior Trials on Sunday, with a record number of girls trying out for a place in the U14s & U16s teams.
Over 250 girls are signed up for trials this summer, with the programme continuing on Saturday June 24 for players in the U10s and U12s categories as the Ladies look to establish themselves as the Academy of Football in the women's game
First team manager Greg de Carnys and eight first team Ladies players were on hand at Beckton with advice for the youngsters, as they look to pass their knowledge down to the next generation of Hammers stars.
Hot on the heels of last week's announcement of Rich Energy coming on board as the Ladies' Official Energy Drink Partner, the excitement around the Club continues to build towards the start of their senior team's FA Women's Premier League campaign.
West Ham Ladies Managing Director Jack Sullivan said: "We were thrilled that a record number of girls have signed up for trials across the two dates, and it was great to see so many talented youngsters at Beckton on Sunday.
"We are planning meticulously across all levels at the Club to push ourselves forward, and I'm looking forward to seeing a number of the players who tried out at the weekend develop with us and push towards the first team over the coming years.
"These are exciting times for West Ham United Ladies and it's clear from the interest in playing for us that this excitement is shared right across the board."
Ladies General Manager Karen Ray added: "The FA have launched a new initiative that aims to double participation for females in football. At West Ham United Ladies we aim to provide a world-class talent pathway that encompasses the Club-wide philosophy and core values through our Junior Academy.
"An integral part of the five-year plan for West Ham United Ladies is to develop the opportunities for talented girls aged eight to 16. The purpose of the Ladies Junior Academy is to develop players and well balanced young people who feel supported, safe and enjoy being a West Ham United player.
"To see over double the young girls signing up and participating in our 2017/18 trials compared to last year really does show the belief, support and desire to play for the Club. We are not shy in admitting our desire to become the Academy of Football for girls over the coming years. This is just the very start of a successful journey and I am proud of all the hard work going on behind the scenes.
"Having so many young talented girls being supported by eight West Ham United Ladies senior players really does highlight the dedication and love everyone has for the game, and for the club. This is an exciting time for everyone involved."
Greg de Carnys, Ladies manager, commented: "It's great to see the amount of girls that turned up to the trials and it shows the progress being made by the Ladies department at West Ham United with record numbers trying out for a place. All of the football on the day was played in good spirits and at a high intensity, despite the unusually high temperatures.
"As the new Academy Director I am excited at the prospect of taking the Academy forward by developing young players, providing them with the appropriate level of challenge in games & training, and ultimately giving good young players a pathway to the highest level of Ladies football in this country, giving them the opportunity to break into the first team here at West Ham, rather than losing them to American scholarships for example. The youth academy is a massive part of getting the first team to to WSL1 and keeping them there for years to come."
There is still time to sign-up for trials in our U10 and U12 age groups, with the sessions taking place at the West Ham United Foundation in Beckton on Saturday June 24. Sign up now by clicking here.
Senior trials are also set for Beckton this week, with interested players invited to sign up for the Tuesday June 20 date by clicking here.
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Southampton fixture reversed
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that our second fixture of the 2017/18 Premier League season, against Southampton, has been reversed and will now be played at St Mary's on the weekend of Saturday 19 August. The switch means that Southampton will visit London Stadium in the corresponding home fixture on Saturday 31 March, 2018. With an international break scheduled after our away game against Newcastle United on August 26, our first Premier League home match next season will therefore be the visit of newly-promoted Huddersfield Town on the weekend of Saturday 9 September.
However, ALL fixtures are still subject to change, with the Sky TV and BT Sport live televised fixtures for the opening two months of the season set to be confirmed in early July, and supporters are urged to bear this in mind when making any travel arrangements for fixtures.
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Joint-Chairman offers reward for info on attempted break-in
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has offered a £25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of a serial burglar, dubbed the Essex Spiderman.
The individual is alleged to have committed over 50 burglaries in the Essex area since Christmas 2016, spreading across Chigwell, Ongar and Brentwood, targeting mostly watches and jewellery.
The serial offender attempted to burgle Sullivan's house on Sunday 18 June and, although the attempt was unsuccessful, the Joint-Chairman has encouraged anyone with information relating to the Essex Spiderman's identity to come forward in a bid to stop the spree.
Sullivan said: "To have someone attempt break into your home is an awful experience, and I hope this reward will help bring the individual responsible to justice and prevent others going through the same ordeal."
Anyone who has any relevant information should email confidential@westhamunited.co.uk with as much detail as possible, which will then be shared with the police.
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TRANSFER BOOM OR BUST THIS WINDOW
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2017 AT 8:10PM
TheWestHamWayc.o.uk
Written by Steven McCarthy
Make no mistake, this is a huge window for us!
As a football club we managed to avoid relegation in our first season at our new home and being honest, it was touch and go for us at times and something that many of us were really fearing! We were told numerous times how relegation would be disastrous for us, and how we would be using the best retractable seating to make the London Stadium feel like home. But regardless of your views on the end product for the venue, I think a great transfer window could and really could have helped build the foundations to cement The London Stadium as our home.
How?
Last season we were met with months of rumours and pursuits of big name strikers, promises of 20 goal a season players and bids of numbers unlike anything we had ever previously seen as a club! In the end, there was nothing even remotely close to this, and I find myself wondering just how much that effected the fans and the transition into the London Stadium. When you have a player or players of quality, then every single week, everything around the club seems that little bit better!
We only have to look at the Payet effect of his time here and how when we knew what a quality player he was, detracted from the sadness of leaving The Boleyn. And it made the atmosphere at every game home and away that little bit more exciting knowing that we had such quality on the pitch! Imagine if we had gone into the new stadium with a Michy, Bacca or a Lacazette leading the line…
Fans would be going into every match with a sense of optimism, the atmosphere would be one of excitement, and the supporters are more likely to make there voices heard. I think ending up with a striker who was less of a "name" and let's face it, quality!
In the form of Zaza, hurt us to a point that we only really saw come to boil with a certain Snake.
Now what that slimey creature did is well documented, and we can never say for sure wether improved results on the pitch would have kept Payet happy. But if we had signed a big striker, someone prolific, who would really make us a scary prospect for teams, I think you can begin to call it into question. However what I do know is that as fans, having a quality striker would have created so much more positivity in and around the club and Stadium. Problems on pitch can even seem smaller when you know that you have that player up top who can knick you a point or two at any moment! Tevez is probably the player I think epitomises this for me as a fan during my time going to matches and really beginning to understand football. We were having a terrible season, but when Tevez was on the pitch everything seemed that bit better!
Pressure on the whole team is lifted somewhat when you know that you have an outlet or a spark in the side. And not just from the stands, if you have a prolific striker then issues such as Goal Keeping errors and the invisible Right Back are made that little bit smaller. But only if you have a striker who consistently produces! I am not saying that they have to scare every game, but they certainly need to be fit to play the majority of them.
Sakho is a lost cause, I think if we cannot sell him which seems the sad case, then we simply need to terminate his contract.
And in my opinion, I would sell Carroll as soon as possible. I love the work rate he shows and I cannot criticise him one bit as a footballer, but I simply cannot see him playing football in anything other than a cameo role from here on.
The Andy Carroll injury guess game was horrible for us last season. We all know what he is capable of on his day!
But when you have only 3 strikers with Premier League goals and experience in your ranks, one of who'm suffers a nasty long term injury at the start of the season, another who simply seems to be made of tracing paper, and somebody who seems to be as toxic in and around the grounds as he is behind the wheel of a Lamborghini, then you really lose that optimism for Match Day!
This Window is a chance for us to undo the mistakes we made and bring that optimism back! We need to spend and spend well, which unfortunately in this market means spending big! 25 million for Iheanacho, 20 or so for Giroud and a loan with a fee for Michy seems like the best options, 45-50 million is not a lot in todays market for a team looking to finish in the top half. Which I know, sounds absolutely daft, but to put it into context Leicester City spent 30 million on Slimani and Everton are spending over 50 million on Pickford and Klaassen.
If we go into next season with a dream striker selection of Giroud, Iheanacho and Michy can you imagine the buzz each week?
I am not saying for a second that I believe we will get all 3, but if ever there was a chance for the owners to right the wrongs of last Summer and take a big step toward making the Olympic Stadium a proper new home for us, this is it!
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MY FIXTURE PREDICTIONS FOR THE NEW SEASON
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2017 AT 8:57PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written Adam Leatherbarrow @_ldesign
Hello you and welcome to my first article for The West Ham Way. Firstly, I'd like to express my pleasure to write for such an established fan site and to work alongside EX. Sites such as "TWHW" gives us the platform to be able to share my thoughts and opinions on a club we all share a love for. I hope you enjoy my maiden article for the site and hopefully will be able to post a lot more often.
If you're unaware of me, then please allow me to introduce myself to you. I'm a blooded West Ham fan brought up from Romford, Essex. My main profession has actually nothing to do with football or West Ham, I'm currently an Architectural Designer and have been for the past decade working on residential schemes from bespoke extensions to large master planning developments. Apart from the wife, Architecture takes up a huge part of my life. Any spare time I get, I share my passion with the beautiful game and West Ham. My main "goal" (excuse the pun) in my life, is to be able to be a main design consultant on Stadia Architectural projects; being able to merge my love for Sport and Architecture on a more regular basis.
An interesting fact about myself is that I'm the FIRST and ONLY person to have designed a stadium (single handily) purely for Three-Sided Football – a take on the conventional modern game we see today. I've featured in Four-Four-Two Magazine and I have also been on TalkSport talking about my design! Cool eh?!
For the past years in my spare time, I have been writing all things West Ham related on fan site West Ham World talking about Transfer Rumours, Transfer Opinions, Game previews, Kit reviews and statistical articles. Some have received good reviews, some have fired up fans for games and some have infuriated fans… All reactions (good and bad) is always a positive thing with my articles because it shows the passion within our fan base, even if it is keyboard bashing!
So let's start with an easy article… a breakdown of the 2017-18 Fixtures!
The fixtures have been out for a few days now and some interesting dates have been highlighted. 12th August we visit Manchester United to open our campaign and it's not the first time we have played a top 6 side on the opening day. We played Chelsea (lost 2-1) last Season, Arsenal (won 0-2) before that and Spurs (lost 1-0) before that, so it's safe to say that we have a tough opener! Manchester United do however start slow so maybe playing one of our hardest games on day one might not be as bad as we think.
Due to the Athletics being held at the London Stadium, West Ham first three games will be away from home, which means that the team will be making a total round trip of 1,222 miles in the first three weeks of the season! Playing the first three games away also means that Slaven will make his 100th appearance as boss at Newcastle. If we can get a minimum 4 points, I think the club will have done well considering the amount of travelling they will do. After an extensively travelled set of fixtures, there will be a well-timed international break between 28th August to 5th September where England will play Malta on 1st September and Slovakia on 4th September.
Once the first international break of the season has occurred, West Ham will FINALLY get to play their first home game of the season against newly promoted Huddersfield Town. The month of September will be kind to West Ham as we will be playing 75% of our monthly fixtures at home. The only away game of the month will be playing a well drilled Tony Pulis West Bromwich Albion side. We hardly get a good result at The Hawthorns apart from the win in the 2015-16 season. Hopefully the long break before and a solid home performance against Huddersfield could put us in a good run of form early in the season. Games followed by Tottenham and Swansea at home will put the premier league schedule on hold for another international break. With home advantage for the majority of our games, I would like to think that we can pick up at least seven more points.
The break will run from 2nd to 10th October where England will play two world cup qualifier matches against Slovenia and Lithuania. These will be the final two competitive games for the national side and will hopefully have secured qualification for the 2018 World Cup.
"England Qualify for the World Cup" Hooray!… another summer of disappointment next year it is! But before all that we restart the season by going to Turf Moor to face Burnley. ***Interesting Statistic Alert!!!*** with Sunderland and Middlesbrough playing Championship football next season, Burnley will be second furthest distance the players will have to travel for an away game. The team secured 3 points last season with goals from Feghouli and Ayew with an injury hit team. hopefully the squad will be at near full fitness and be able to have a more comfortable win this time round. West Ham return to the London Stadium to face another Premier League debutant in Brighton and Hove Albion. Premier League boys tend to play off adrenaline for the first few months, as we've seen previously. Brighton could be a banana skin fixture and with them managed by Stratford born Ex-Hammer Chris Houghton, I can see that particular team turning up to cause an upset. The following week we play Crystal Palace and this time without an ex-hammers boss in charge. The past two seasons we've played against Pardew and Allardyce taking all three points on both occasions. Who knows what will happen with Palace, it will be one of those games where a certain Jonathan Calleri signs for them in the summer, scores a hat trick against us and sticks 2 fingers up at the board… or maybe we'll win 3-1 again? October is a funny sort of month where we could get maximum points from the fixtures. In my personal opinion I think 4 points would be acceptable.
We start November playing at home where a Champions League Liverpool side could show signs of exhaustion early in the season. Playing midweek games in between fixtures, could mean that this game would be either a Saturday night game or a Sunday lunchtime game. Revenge on the cards? Hope so! This fixture puts the premier league season on hold against, as there is another international break and final one of 2017 before the 2018 World Cup draw on 1st December in Moscow, Russia. Watford away next in the league and this fixture will be the start of the toughest run in of the season, where there will be eleven games played without a weekend break. West Ham could rack up an astonishing 1,960 miles on the road by playing away 6 times between November and New Year's Day. For me, the summer transfer window is key for winter fixture congestion, wise spending on experienced players is what will help the club overcome the 11 games that will determine where West Ham will finish up in the league. The Watford away game is a "bogey" game as is the following fixture against Leicester City, where we have failed to get a point at home in the past 2 seasons. They say things come in three's and we played Everton away to complete the Triple Bogey run in for November. Like October, 4 points is the minimum we should achieve and I hope the players realise that the November games are all games we have to win. We have to start beating these type of teams to push us up the league. Everton, Watford and Leicester have all dented our progress in previous seasons and it is time this stopped.
We start December knowing that England are in the Group of Death for the upcoming World Cup and we all realise that winning the trophy is not going to happen. But back to reality and we face Manchester City away. If I was Bilic I would seriously consider setting up a base camp for the Everton and Man City games due to the amount of travelling involved over the space of four days, we're looking at over 900 miles, would be great to cut that down in half and use the games as one trip. It would be worth trying to get in touch with a Football or Rugby League side in the area to see if they would share their facilities for a few days to save on travelling. Maybe training sessions with a rugby team might toughen the players up a bit. Afterwards we then have two back to back Home London derbies against Chelsea and Arsenal, two games where the atmosphere will be electric under the lights on a dark cold winters afternoon. An away trip to Stoke City followed by a home game to Newcastle, ensures the midway point of the season.
Controversially, as reported by ExWHUemployee, the away boxing day game looks set to be a regular fixture and this season we go to Bournemouth. With a gentleman's agreement put in place by the club and neighbouring Westfield Shopping Centre, it appears that the boxing day sales are more important for an area that has been enriched with various sport in the past five years. How ironic… if it wasn't for the Olympics, there wouldn't have been a shopping centre, now the shops are shunning sport. West Ham finally go to Wembley in 2017, but it will be a league fixture against Tottenham Hotspur as they make the home of football their temporary base. The thought of West Ham beating Tottenham at Wembley sounds great, however it all sounds too good to be true. December is a hard-hitting month to play seven games in four weeks but I feel the club can look to achieve between 9-12 points, which would satisfy every hammer at the moment.
We start the new year at home playing WBA on new year's day, which will be played on Monday and the FA CUP weekend follows. West Ham make their first trip to Huddersfield in the premier league and in typical West Ham fashion, a win could be guaranteed but a loss is on the cards. Back to back home games against Bournemouth and Crystal Palace could be a blessing in disguise as we look to push up the table. January could be a good month for us, especially if we get a decent draw in the cup, I expect a minimum of 7 points, however I think we could get a maximum 12 points from those four fixtures.
We kick of February by going to Brighton away and again like the Huddersfield game, we could see a slip up on the south coast. Watford at home follows and again revenge for the 4-2 defeat of last season will be on the minds of most West Ham players. An Away trip to Liverpool could see West Ham go three consecutive games undefeated at Anfield for the first time ever, something even my old man hasn't seen in his lifetime! February could be a tricky month and if there hasn't been significant investment in the January transfer window, we could be set for a dip in form and not gaining many points. Minimum three points expected, whether its three draws or 1 win, 3 points is needed, we cannot go through a run of games without winning. Last season we saw three poor runs of results where we hadn't won for six games…. this just cannot happen again.
Spring has sprung and we go over to "daffodil land" to play Swansea City. If Paul Clement is still in charge, I cannot see us winning although The Liberty Stadium has been good to us in the past. Three Home games in a row for West Ham as Burnley make their 508 mile round trip to the London Stadium and we could look to expose Burnley's tiredness. Manchester United and Southampton follow with the hammers looking to improve on last season's meetings. Four games in March and with 3 home games, the club could should look to get a minimum 8 points and go undefeated in the month.
April in my opinion the toughest month for West Ham as we start the month playing Chelsea away. we could put in a performance and come away with a point and we normally do well at Chelsea's place later on in the season, so maybe a shock could be on the cards and denting their titles hopes. A home game at Stoke the following week could be our final win of the season considering the teams left to play. Arsenal away and Man City at home are two games I'm not hopeful for. I predict that we will get 3 points, however if the club come back with 4-6 points that will be a good couple of results to see out the season.
The month of May sees two bogey sides return, West Ham travel to The King Power Stadium to try and get 3 points against Leicester City and we end the season at home against Everton. The final two games could go either way but 2 points could be enough and seeing out the season not losing, would end the season on a positive.
Upon reflection of the fixtures for the upcoming 2017-18 season, there are significant parts of the season that will influence West Ham's final position. The start of the season indicates that the club need to be more affective away from home by gaining as many points as possible to upset the big clubs. The summer transfer window needs to address the eleven game run in during the winter period, by getting in experience players on a short term basis to prevent the squad being overused and inflict injuries. The club have to eliminate the potential stress of player playing through the pain barrier, we've seen Carroll, Sakho, Antonio, Noble, Ogbonna and Reid all play with injuries which has affected the team's performances. April 2018 could ruin all the hard work in the earlier parts of the season, games against Chelsea, Arsenal, Man City and Everton are ones that could either stop us gaining a European place, or they could relegate us.
My season prediction is that the current West Ham team (before any transfers have occurred as of this publication date) will get around 51 points this season, which on average would secure a top 10 finish. For Slaven Bilic to keep his job as West Ham manager, he would have to match the points tally of the 2015-16 season, otherwise his contract will not be renewed. I love Slaven as West Ham Boss and if he doesn't improve on his ratio at the club, it hates me to say it but then he has to leave. West Ham need a manager who is a "1 win from 2" rather than "1 win from 3" type of guy. Slaven is on the edge in terms of performances and his passion for the club is what is giving him another chance. His win ratio at West Ham is a mere 38%… 11% lower than his average and 13% below his Besiktas ratio (51%). For west ham to start considering themselves at a top 6 club, challenging for European football, they have to start winning more games, it's as simple as that.
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A GOALKEEPING DILEMMA
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 19 JUNE 2017 AT 8:44PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @farehamhammer
I'm not going to put on a vest, hold a placard up and march to Downing Street and start shouting: "Randolph MUST go!" However one must accept, Darren Randolph, needs replacing. He is a poor goalkeeper. When Robert Green, was our custodian in goal, I would brick myself every time the opposition crossed the halfway line because 9 out ten times, it would land in the back of our net. Green was so bad at one stage, I thought he was part of a Middle East betting syndicate! I remember one game against Hull, when they had two shots but scored THREE goals! One he virtually threw into his own net. Anything could happen with Green in goal, from kicking the ball straight to the opposition, getting beaten at the near post and of course he feared crosses more than Satan. More often than not, the opposition would be out played, then have a shot and score. As a result heads would drop, and we would lose games we should have won.
When a team has no confidence in their goalkeeper, it makes the whole team jittery. I am afraid to say, that is the case when Darren Randolph is in goal. It's not just a West Ham 'thing', Randolph has been just as poor for Ireland. The man is pathetic at dealing with crosses, gets beaten at the near post, poor place keeping, with the ball often going straight to a nearby striker's feet and like Green, capable of the most outrageous of errors. Having to rely on Darren Randolph at some point next season will cost West Ham matches, so we will have to look at the goalkeeping position very carefully. I like Adrian, although he does have the odd rush of blood, he is a good goalkeeper and his defence is far less jittery when he is in goal. The clean sheets we started getting towards the end of last season, tells a story.
I have seen the clamour to sign Joe Hart, apparently Manchester City are willing to pay, £75000 per week of his £175 000 per week salary. The problem I have is this: Yes, Joe Hart is a good goalkeeper, also prone to the odd error but he is certainly NOT an exceptional goalkeeper. In an ideal world one would have, both Hart and Adrian, as our first team goalkeepers, but that is not going to happen. If you sign Hart, both Adrian and Randolph will be off. Adrian, a Spanish international, will not be prepared to sit on the bench twiddling his thumbs with the World Cup in mind. He will be off and he won't be short of suitors, who could blame him if he did so? There is not that much between Joe Hart and Adrian …accept wages, with Hart probably earning about £125 000 per week more. How do you think that would go down, not just with Adrian, but the rest of the squad as well? Time to say no to Hart and invest the £100 000 in wages elsewhere in the team.
So what do we do about our no 2 goalkeeper if we manage to flog Randolph? Even the big clubs don't have star second choice goalkeepers, the key is getting a steady goalkeeper as your number 2, far easier said than done. We have been linked with Norwich City's John Ruddy, with groans of not another free! Let's look at the reason why Ruddy was released. Yes, he did not have a great season last season, but neither did Norwich City as a whole. He was not offered a new contract, simply because Norwich could not afford him. However make no mistake, John Ruddy is hugely popular with the Carrow Road crowd, having produced several outstanding performances over the years. Indeed they produced a big banner at his final game saying: "Thank You for everything big John"! A big man is John Ruddy indeed! I remember Didier Drogba being laid out cold after colliding with big John. I would personally welcome Big John to The London Stadium, an experienced and steady goalkeeper, who won't let The Club down if called upon. Hart at £100,000 per week? Jog on son! No, Adrian at number 1 with big John at number 2.We're more than a football club, we're a way of life!
COYI!!
Farehamhammer!!!!
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Kouyate unsure what future holds
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate say that last season was the toughest the club had experienced for some considerable time - and that he is unsure what the future holds for him. The experienced Senegal international, who was signed by Sam Allardyce in 2014 admitted that the 2016/17 campaign was his toughest since leaving Anderlecht to join the Hammers.
And when asked whether he was likely to remain at the Olympic Stadium for the forseeable future, Kouyate's reply was non-commital. "I do not know for the moment," he told Sen360FR. "I am on holiday and not taking care of certain things. "Every player dreams of going as high as possible. There are certain things that are not said publicly. What counts is that at the resumption [of pre-season training], I will be with West Ham. The rest, I do not control."
Kouyate also revealed that the departure of Dimitri Payet played a major role in the team's indifferent form last season, despite reports suggesting the players were happy to see the French international leave. "There have been many ups and downs this season,"he added. "This is the hardest we have seen in recent years, but luckily we have secured survival. "We fought to stay in the Premier League. I have never experienced such a situation because it is harder to fight when you are at the bottom of the ladder. Before each game, we were obliged to keep one eye on the teams immediately below us [in the table]. "It was difficult especially after the departure of our star, Dimitri Payet. We had to put in place a different style of play because before all we played for him. Now we had to play as a team. "His departure was of a family nature. It was difficult for him. He did not find the love he hoped for at the club and since the family sometimes decides, he did not hesitate. "He preferred to go back to France. It is his choice that we respect. I spoke to him on the phone two days ago. He is happy and well. As for us, it took some time but in the end we clicked."
Kouyate also revealed that he had been unhappy at being asked to fill in at right back by Slaven Bilic - especially when a qualified full back was available. "We lost our right-hand side and some defenders who could evolve at that level," he recalled. "It was then that the coach asked me to help out. "Initially, I was reluctant to complain when he told me it was just for a game. It was just after the African Cup. But after the third match, there was a defender available. Nevertheless, Bilic played me there me again. "Not only did I lose my bearings, but I was not good on the field. I was stuck in my evolution. Even the coach realised this. I did not feel good, so I took my responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue [in that position]."
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Hoffenheim want Hammers midfielder
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
Hoffenheim are the latest Bundesliga club to be linked with a move for Havard Nordtveit. KUMB reported last week how the Norwegian international had refused to rule out a return to Germany, despite having served just one year of a five-year contract with West Ham.
And now Hoffenheim, who recently lost midfielders Sebastian Rudy and Pirmin Schwegler are understood to have indicated an interest in taking Nordtveit back to the European mainland. Hamburg, Bayer Leverkusen and Wolfsburg have also been closely linked with a move for the 26-year-old.
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Oxford in Germany for talks
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 19th June 2017
By: Staff Writer
Reece Oxford has arrived in Germany ahead of a season-long loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old had been widely tipped to feature in Slaven Bilic's first team squad next term but will instead feature in the Bundesliga for Die Fohlen, should talks progress without any hitches. Oxford flew into Germany earlier today for talks with Monchengladbach who are seeking a replacement for Chelsea centre-half Andreas Christensen. The young Dane has spent the last two seasons on loan at Borussia Park. West Ham have no intention of selling Oxford, who spent the latter half of last season on loan with Championship side Reading, on a permanent basis.
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West Ham youngster Reece Oxford seals Bundesliga move to Borussia Monchengladbach
The Hammers starlet's management have shared a picture of him being unveiled with Foals sporting director Max Eberl
The Mirror
BYJACK RATHBORN
20:08, 19 JUN 2017UPDATED20:19, 19 JUN 2017
Reece Oxford has joined Borussia Monchengladbach from West Ham, according to his management. As first revealed by the Mirror weeks ago, the Hammers were keen to send Oxford out on a season-long loan with the Foals to gain first team experience and Colossal Sports Management have posted a picture of the player alongside Gladbach's sporting director Max Eberl to confirm the deal. The 18-year-old follows Chelsea youngster Andreas Christensen in moving from the Premier League to the Borussia Park in order to develop as a player. Oxford, who signed a new deal last season until 2021, is versatile and can play in centre-midfield or at centre-back. After a couple of appearances under Slaven Bilic in the Europa League qualifiers, Oxford's involvement in the first team was cut short, leading to a five-month loan spell with Reading. The second-youngster player to start a Premier League game against Arsenal in August 2015, aged 16 years and 198 days, the Hammers have held him back since. Gladbach have a fine record in nurturing young talent and offered Christensen 81 games in a two-year loan spell, which will give West Ham optimism that Oxford will be handed a similar amount of game time.
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West Ham set to confirm Reece Oxford loan deal to Borussia Monchengladbach
JAMES BENGE
Evening Stadnard
West Ham defender Reece Oxford has all but completed his loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old will join the Bundesliga side on a season-long loan and completed his medical earlier on Tuesday. Oxford signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at the London Stadium in December before heading out to Championship side Reading, where he made only five appearances under Jaap Stam in what was a frustrating spell away from his parent club. Gladbach will hope Oxford can fill the space vacated by Danish international Andreas Christensen, who has returned to Chelsea after spending two seasons on loan at Borussia Park.
Despite his second loan departure this year hopes remain high that Oxford, an England Under-19 international, can establish himself in the West Ham senior side.
Slaven Bilic handed Oxford his Premier League debut at the age of just 16 years and 198 days in a 2-0 win at Arsenal in August 2015, a match in which Oxford won rave reviews for his exceptional marshalling of Mesut Ozil. That performance alerted a string of top sides to Oxford's quality and prior to signing his £1million-a-year extension at West Ham he was coveted by the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United.
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Reece Oxford: West Ham defender to join Borussia Monchengladbach on loan
By David Ornstein
BBC Sport
West Ham defender Reece Oxford is close to completing a season-long loan move to Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old, who spent five months on loan at Reading last season, has had a medical ahead of a move to Germany. Oxford was the second-youngest player to start a Premier League match when he played against Arsenal, aged 16 years and 198 days, in August 2015.
He signed a new four-and-a-half-year deal at West Ham in December 2016.
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Kouyate hits out at as he admits he doesn't know what his West Ham future holds
The midfielder gave the explosive quotes in an interview and it appears he hasn't been too happy
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
16:55, 19 JUN 2017
Cheikhou Kouyate has lashed out at manager Slaven Bilic for playing him at right back last season and added he doesn't know what the future holds. The surprising comments came in an interview the Senegal midfielder conducted with Sen360FR on Wednesday as he admitted last season was his toughest at the club. The departure of Dimitri Payet contributed to that in Kouyate's eyes, but him playing out of position, when right backs were in the squad, irked him the most. Kouyate said: "We lost our right-hand side and some defenders who could evolve at that level. It was then that the coach asked me to help out. "Initially, I was reluctant to complain when he told me it was just for a game. It was just after the African Cup. But after the third match, there was a defender available. Nevertheless, Bilic played me there me again. "Not only did I lose my bearings, but I was not good on the field. I was stuck in my evolution. Even the coach realised this. I did not feel good, so I took my responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue [in that position]."
When asked about his future at the London Stadium, Kouyate was very non-comittal He added: ""I do not know for the moment. I am on holiday and not taking care of certain things. "Every player dreams of going as high as possible. There are certain things that are not said publicly. What counts is that at the resumption [of pre-season training], I will be with West Ham. The rest, I do not control."
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WEST HAM READY TO BID €10M FOR SILVAN WIDMER
MICHAEL OLIVER @MichaelOIiver
ReadWestHam
Despite recruiting Pablo Zabaleta from Manchester City on a free transfer earlier this month, West Ham are still reportedly in the market for a right-back. According to Italian source Il Messaggero (h/t Sport Witness), the Hammers are said to be ready to make a €10m bid to sign Udinese fullback Silvan Widmer this summer. Since arriving in Serie A four years ago from Granada, Widmer has been a regular in the Udinese side, making 28 appearances last season, providing four assists. Able to play at right-back or in a wing-back role, Widmer is an ideal fit on paper for a West Ham side that have been rotating between a back four and back three formation. The 24-year-old is capped nine times by Switzerland but a move for him doesn't really make much sense. Slaven Bilic brought in Zabaleta on a two-year deal to provide competition but more importantly mentorship to Sam Byram who is still developing his game, so throwing Widmer into the mix does raise eyebrows, perhaps regarding the future of the former Leeds standout. West Ham still need to add to their defensive ranks but another right-back isn't the right move in our minds.
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Hamburg struggling to finance deal to take Havard Nordtveit back to Germany from West Ham
The midfielder is set for an exit from the Hammers this summer but one destination might be ruled out
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
13:00, 19 JUN 2017
Hamburg want to take Havard Nordtveit off West Ham's hands this summer but they are struggling to match his wage demands, meaning any move could collapse, according to reports in Germany. The Norwegian midfielder had a disappointing campaign at the Hammers following his free transfer from Borussia Moenchengladbach last summer, signing a five-year deal. He was also handed a reported £55,000 a week wage by West Ham when he signed, in the upper echelon of earners at the club at the time. However, it appears a move hasn't quite worked out in England, but the man who made 16 appearances for the club last season is adamant he wants to stay in east London. He said: "At the moment, I let the speculation lie. "I still have four years left on his contract with West Ham. And I'm getting ready to take part in preparations for the new season."
Hamburg, Bayer Leverkusen, Hoffenheim and Wolfsburg are all reportedly interested in his signature and it's Hamburg who have made the first move, according to Germna outlet Bild, but they are struggling to match his earnings.
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West Ham striker Enner Valencia lined up for Tigres move - sources
1:13 PM BST
Peter O'Rourke
ESPN
West Ham United are ready to sell Enner Valencia to Mexican side Tigres UANL, sources close to the London club have told ESPN FC. Valencia, 27, spent last season on loan at Everton, but they have opted against making the move permanent. The Ecuador international made five starts in the Premier League during his stint at Everton and scored just three goals in 30 appearances in all competitions.
Valencia is well down the pecking order at West Ham and manager Slaven Bilic is prepared to let him move on in order to generate funds for his own transfer plans. The striker is highly regarded in Mexico after starring for Pachuca before joining West Ham in 2014. Valencia is keen on a move away in search of regular first-team football and the opportunity to return closer to Ecuador makes Tigres an attractive proposition for the striker.
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West Ham may face battle from Man Utd for Joe Hart - and Hammers also want Olivier Giroud
Jason Burt, chief football correspondent
19 JUNE 2017 • 11:09AM
Telepgrah.co.uk
West Ham United are keen to sign Joe Hart and will press ahead with a move for Olivier Giroud if Arsenal sign any new strikers. The deal for Hart would most likely be a season-long loan and it is understood that the England international wants to make the move to West Ham. An intriguing complication could be if Manchester United sell David De Gea to Real Madrid as it is believed that manager Jose Mourinho is genuinely interested in signing Hart. However, it is extremely difficult to see Manchester City allowing the 30-year-old to cross over to their city rivals.
A move to West Ham makes more sense and the club would regard the signing as a big statement of intent ahead of the new season with Hart also looked upon as a strong character and a potential leader for the squad. The fact that he is English is also an attraction to West Ham. Hart recently admitted that he does not know where his future lies after the end of his season-long loan to the Italian club, Torino, given he is not wanted at City. "I need an offer first and then I need to work out my options if I have choices. I want to be playing at the highest possible level, pushing myself," Hart said after England's recent World Cup qualifier away to Scotland. Hart also knows that his position as England No 1 is under serious threat with Jack Butland fit again and Jordan Pickford, who has just completed a £30million move to Everton, pushing hard to be promoted to the senior squad from the England Under-21s. The scale of Hart's wages would make a permanent move to West Ham very difficult, but both parties would consider a loan agreement, it seems, although that also depends on the fee demanded by City. Ideally Hart would want a permanent deal to kick-start his career and settle his long-term future and sources suggest that could even be offered by United if they relent and allow De Gea to seal his dream move to Real Madrid.
Mourinho would love to take a player from City, where Hart was popular among the fans but unwanted by manager Pep Guardiola, but it remains highly unlikely that a deal between the two clubs is agreed under any circumstance. West Ham are attempting to re-shape their squad this summer after a disappointing first campaign at the London Stadium and Giroud's future is also being closely monitored.
Arsenal are bidding to sign Giroud's French international team-mate Alexandre Lacazette and have also continued to track the future of Kylian Mbappe at Monaco, although Real Madrid are the favourites to sign him should he leave. If Arsenal make any signings then it appears that Giroud may be available for transfer. The 30-year-old will not want to become a marginalised player at Arsenal – and he only made 11 Premier League starts last season – especially with the World Cup in Russia next summer. However, if Alexis Sanchez leaves Arsenal, with Bayern Munich his most likely destination, Arsene Wenger may not want to allow Giroud to also go. West Ham want to improve their attacking options, in particular, and have also registered an interest previously in City's Kelechi Iheanacho, but it appears he is too expensive.
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West Ham should accept Iheanacho's buyback fee and focus on the present
HITC
Vincent Ralph
West Ham United had been linked with the Manchester City youngster but things have gone quiet after a reported impasse. According to a report from Own Goal Nigeria, West Ham United walked away from discussions regarding the potential transfer of Manchester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho after the two sides could not agree on the buyback clause. City are said to have wanted a fee that was not acceptable to the Hammers, but given their need for additional quality fire-power, Slaven Bilic's side should be focusing on the here and now.
Such is Iheanacho's ability in front of goal that City were never going to allow him to leave unless they could buy him back for a decent fee if he goes on to fulfil his potential. West Ham would, like any club, want to sign a player they know is theirs for as long as they want them. However when it comes to signing the most prolific young strikers in European football, it is rarely that easy.
West Ham could walk away from the deal and hope to sign another striker or two. The problem is, as their fans will tell you it is easier said than done. Last summer Bilic's side was linked with some of the most exciting forwards in the game. They ended up with Simone Zaza and Jonathan Calleri. Such is City's strength in depth and the likelihood of additional new recruits both this summer and in future transfer windows, that they are unlikely to activate Iheanacho's buyback clause any time soon. That means West Ham could have a prolific young forward for the next few years and when you consider City are willing to sell, the Hammers should act before it is too late. The 20-year-old scores almost every time he starts and he is only going to get better in the years to come. West Ham may know they only have him for a limited time but they are likely to make their money back, and even if City are pushing for a cut-price return, he will more than pay the difference if he performs to his best ability for however long he is at the London Stadium. Iheancho is an exciting yet achievable target, and West Ham need to act on one of those or risk another summer of bitter disappointment.
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Key figure shares interesting advantage West Ham have this season over past two years
HITC
Antony Martin
West Ham United will not have the Europa League to contend with this season. Hammers' newly appointed Head of Medical Services Gary Lewin wrote a column for the club's official website, and highlighted a huge advantage the squad have this time around, over last year's pre-season. Lewin, the former Arsenal and England physio, has been in his role at West Ham for three weeks, and what with their horrendous injury record last term, he arguably faces the toughest challenge of his career at the London Stadium. Getting to the bottom of ongoing issues for the likes of Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho will surely feature highly on Lewin's priority list. And the east Londoner's fitness supremo told WHUFC.com how a pre-season schedule without the inclusion of Europa League football could prove to be a major plus for the Hammers as far as their hopes for a successful Premier League campaign are concerned:
"For the last two summers, the Club have had early competitive football in the Europa League, and that can be tough. It's not so much the early start, but more the unknown aspect of it when you are planning – who are we playing, where are we travelling. That can make it difficult to plan individual programmes for players who may be at different levels of fitness and conditioning. This year we can set in stone what we are doing, and have a pre-conceived plan all the way through to August 12. We can all be on the same page, with the same levels of fitness and, hopefully, have everyone relatively injury-free and ready to go."
West Ham's pre-season will consist of training camps in both Austria and Germany, before they head to Iceland to take on Pep Guardiola's Manchester City one week before the start of the 2017/18 Premier League campaign. And Hammers fans will be looking for a better start to the season than the one their club experienced last term.
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West Ham defender Reece Oxford touches down in Germany ahead of Borussia Monchengladbach loan deal
Reece Oxford is tipped to become the future West Ham and England captain
Defender is set to head to Borussia Monchengladbach on loan next season
The 18-year-old touched down in Germany on Monday for advanced talks
Chelsea's Andreas Christensen has spent the last two seasons on loan at club
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 09:26, 19 June 2017 | UPDATED: 09:26, 19 June 2017
West Ham starlet Reece Oxford has arrived in Germany to complete a season-long loan deal to Borussia Monchengladbach. The 18-year-old has flown over for advanced talks with the Bundesliga club and is expected to agree a deal for the entirety of next season. Oxford is tipped as a future West Ham and England captain, but the Hammers want their teenager to gain regular first team football next season.
Chelsea centre half Andreas Christensen has spent the last two seasons on loan at Monchengladbach, nurturing a reputation as one of the most promising defenders in Europe. And the German club believe Oxford can make a similar impression in the Bundesliga next season.
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West Ham United's Angelo Ogbonna wants Italy return
HITC
Shane Callaghan
The West Ham United man wants to re-join an Italian club, according to reports from Italy. Il Secolo XIX has reported that West Ham United defender Angelo Ogbonna wants a return to Italy this summer. The Italian newspaper suggests that Serie A outfit Sampdoria will consider the 29-year-old centre-back as an option to potentially replace highly-rated Milan Skriniar, who has been linked with a switch to Inter Milan. And Il Secolo XIX goes on to state that the Italy international - signed from Juventus in 2015 - wants a return to his homeland. If true then it will come as a blow to West Ham after his importance to the team was underlined in the second half of the 2016-17 campaign. Ogbonna missed half of last season with a knee injury sustained in January, and the Irons struggled in his absence.
He underwent knee surgery following an injury in a 3-1 win over Middlesbrough, and Slaven Bilic's side managed to win only one of their subsequent nine Premier League outings in a run of horrendous form which included six defeats. He should, in theory, be ready for the start of next season after starting West Ham's 2-1 win at Burnley on the final day of the campaign and Bilic should do everything in his power to ensure that his centre-back is still at the club. Then again, his five-month layoff might have had adverse affects on his game. Jose Fonte is a capable defender but the last five months of last season proved that he is not in Ogbonna's league.
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