Rice's 'crazy day' caps rewarding Chelsea return
WHUFC.com
Five seasons ago, Declan Rice was playing Academy football for Chelsea, only
for the Blues to release him at the age of 14. The schoolboy was initially
left 'deflated', his dream of playing for the club his family supported
shattered, but within 48 hours he had been snapped up by West Ham United -
and the rest is history. Rice's redemption story went full circle on Sunday,
when the 19-year-old played a starring role against his old club at Stamford
Bridge, helping the Hammers win a heard-earned Premier League point. "I've
come back here after being released by Chelsea at 14 and five years later
I'm playing for West Ham in the Premier League," said Rice, who has made 25
first-team appearances since debuting at Burnley on the final day of last
season. "Sunday was a crazy day and one which me and my family are very
proud of. "Coming to Chelsea games as a kid, joining the club at seven and
being released at 14, I don't think I need to prove anything, but today I
felt I came back and made a statement and I was happy with my performance."
The 19-year-old still has many friends at Chelsea and regularly meets up
with former Blues captain John Terry to discuss his career and life paths.
And with his family, who hail from nearby Kingston-upon-Thames and many of
whom are Chelsea supporters, watching on from the stands, Rice showed all
the composure and ability that have already marked him out as one of the
Premier League's top prospects. Playing alongside his experienced defensive
colleagues and goalkeeper Joe Hart, who produced his best display for the
Hammers, the 19-year-old relished the opportunity to show his old club what
they had missed out on. "Joe was outstanding and I thought Angelo, Cressy,
Patrice, Arthur and myself were excellent as well," he observed. "In the
second half, when we had the chance to put pressure on their defence, they
started to crumble a little bit and obviously Arnie potentially could have
had a penalty too. "On the day, we had a game plan and we stuck to it. We
came out with a point and that's massive for us going into the final six
games of the season. "It's all about learning. I'd watched clips and
obviously I know how Eden Hazard plays and how Willian plays, but you can't
really tell off a video until you face them in real life as you come up
against different challenges. "They played a few tricky one-twos and they
did get in a couple of times, but in the second half we started to suss it
out. It's only going to help me build as a player, going up against these
types of world class players."
West Ham could easily have crumbled themselves after falling behind to Cesar
Aziplicueta's close-range finish nine minutes before half-time, but instead
came out after the break with the resolve and determination to grab a share
of the spoils, at least. And their reward came with 17 minutes remaining,
when substitute Chicharito swept Marko Arnautovic's cut-back into the bottom
corner, sparking wild celebrations both on the pitch and among the
3,000-strong Claret and Blue Army. "If you let your heads go down against
these sorts of players, you're going to be four or five-nil down. The goal
was a scrappy one to concede from a set piece and that was disappointing as
we'd worked on them during the week, but we kept at it, kept going and we
knew we'd get a chance. "Arnie had one in the first half and then Chicha
came on and made a great difference, held the ball up well and stuck it
away. He was excellent when he came on. "Arnie got in around the back and
set it back for him and Chicha, with his striker's instinct, has pulled off
and he's found a great finish into the corner past a few bodies and the West
Ham fans went crazy. "Two seasons I was in the away end celebrating with
them, but this time I was out there playing, so it was a special moment."
West Ham have now picked up four points from two matches and sit 14th in the
table with six matches remaining, the next of which sees Stoke City – seven
points below the Hammers on 27 – visit London Stadium on Monday 16 April.
"We won't be able to relax, but if we beat Stoke we'll be in a good
position. We've still got some really tough games towards end of the season,
but three points against Stoke will be crucial. "We've just got to push on
and get the results."
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Hart's heroics: Analysing Joe's outstanding display at Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Speaking after Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Chelsea, Joe Hart said
simply that it was 'nice to make a few saves and help get a result for the
team at an important time of the season'. But the straight-talking
goalkeeper was vastly underplaying the role he played in securing a deserved
point at Stamford Bridge.
Put simply, without Hart's heroics between the sticks, West Ham United would
have lost. After seeing Eden Hazard and Willian fire shots narrowly wide and
Alvaro Morata have the first of two 'goals' correctly ruled out for offside,
the 30-year-old was called into action for the first time on 35 minutes. A
slick move involving Hazard and Morata, ended with Willian bearing down on
the West Ham goal, but Hart denied the Brazilian with a superb save with his
outstretched left foot, diverting the ball over the crossbar. The stopper
admitted to being 'disappointed' that Chelsea scored a 'sloppy' goal from
the resulting corner, but he could not be held accountable for Cesar
Azpilicueta's scrambled opener.
Into the second half and Spaniard Morata had a second strike ruled out by
the assistant referee before Chicharito levelled the scores from Marko
Arnautovic's pass to give West Ham something to cling onto. And cling onto
it they did thanks in the main to Hart, who took to the air to make a
spectacular one-handed save to help Marcos Alonso's rasping shot over the
top. With time running out and both teams throwing men forward in search of
a late winner, the England international was called into action thrice more
in the closing stages. First, he was in the right place to smother Hazard's
low shot. Then, with two minutes of the 90 remaining, his excellent footwork
allowed Hart to scramble across his goalmouth and tip Olivier Giroud's
goal-bound header onto the post and out for a corner. Hart's fifth and final
save, in the second minute of added time was his most comfortable, as Gary
Cahill's looping header from a Cesc Fabregas cross fell into his grateful
grasp.
In his post-match interview, the on-loan Manchester City man said his late
save from Giroud (pictured, above) was his pick of the quintet. "The last
one was my favourite," he told his former City teammate Joleon Lescott on
BBC Radio 5 Live. "The earlier ones, I didn't really know much about, but
with Giroud coming on, you know what's coming because he is so strong and
can hold anyone off and win headers and they've gone past me before. "I
remember when we lost 2-0 against Arsenal [with Manchester City in January
2015], so it was nice to get a little touch on it."
Hart was keen to share the limelight with the likes of Arnautovic and
Chicharito, but those outside the Club did not hold back in their praise for
the two-time Premier League champion. Former England midfielder Jamie
Redknapp in The Star, ex-Tottenham Hotspur striker Garth Crooks for BBC
Sport, the Daily Telegraph's Jason Burt, ESPN FC's Gab Marcotti and
talkSPORT all named Hart in their Premier League Team of the Weekend. With
England manager Gareth Southgate among the spectators at Stamford Bridge, a
more meaningful endorsement could follow in the shape of a place in the
Three Lions' 2018 FIFA World Cup squad.
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Chicharito: The ball came to me and I decided I would score!
WHUFC.com
Chicharito has explained how his clinical equaliser at Chelsea was down to
far more than just chance. While some strikers might hit and hope when
presented with a similar opportunity on such a big stage, West Ham United's
Mexican marksman instead weighed up his options in a split second and sent
an unstoppable curling shot into the bottom corner of Thibaut Courtois' net.
The goal, which, alongside Joe Hart's Man of the Match performance in goal,
earned the Hammers a precious Premier League point at Stamford Bridge, came
just moments after the No17 had been introduced as a 70th-minute substitute,
"Marko made a good run and then a clever pass behind him, because I think it
was like a 'no-look' pass and the ball came to me and thankfully I decided I
would score and I did!" Chicharito smiled.
"When I saw the ball coming, I know where I am and when I'm looking back to
the ball to shoot it, I saw a blue shirt, Cahill I think, moving to my left,
so I decided to shoot it at the near post. I also knew Courtois was on the
other side, thinking I was going to shoot the long way, but I shot at the
near post and thankfully the ball went in." "After that, in the final ten or
15 minutes, we created two or three more chances, but unfortunately we
didn't take one. Chelsea also created some good chances, but Joe was the MVP
with his unbelievable saves."
Chicharito is hoping his eighth goal of the season will earn him more
game-time over the closing half-dozen matches as he and his teammates strive
to keep West Ham in the Premier League. "I'm looking to play 90 minutes
every game. I want to give a headache to the manager so he has to decide,
like all the squad. You can see Patrice Evra also came in and did a good
job. "We have some players who are injured who are trying to come back and
we have a very good squad and we all want to play more than 20 minutes,
that's for sure. We also know that everybody wants to give everything to
help the team."
With that in mind, Chicharito says the whole squad is determined to make it
seven points from a possible nine when West Ham take to the pitch again next
Monday night against Stoke City. "We are all happy because, after the good
performance the team put in against Southampton at home [in winning 3-0], we
wanted to show consistency and I think we did it. "We showed consistency in
our concentration and Joe put in a great performance, as did the rest of us,
and we got a very important point. "With this point, it's going to be pretty
good this week. We can work with confidence after getting three points at
home and a good point at Stamford Bridge, knowing how difficult it is to go
there, and now we have a very important match, another final, against Stoke.
So, we're going to fight to get another three points at home and that can
take us out of the relegation battle completely."
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Holland to put friendships aside in Everton clash
WHUFC.com
Nathan Holland wants to show his former Everton teammates what they are
missing when West Ham United's Premier League 2 side travel to the Toffees'
Southport FC home on Monday night. The Hammers youngsters head into the
rearranged clash four days after clinching three points elsewhere in the
north west – against Manchester City in a 1-0 victory on Thursday. And
Holland – who traded Merseyside for east London in January 2017 – is hoping
Terry Westley's Academy side can build some momentum for their final two
games with a second successive victory. He said: "The team are feeling very
confident after the win at Man City. it's always nice to get a win,
especially with a clean sheet against a team like City. "We played really
well in that game and I think everyone left the match thinking we can be a
match for any team. Now we have to kick on and do the same at Everton. "City
play a different style to many of the teams we face, but I think the squad
can adapt well to different situations, and we did that on Thursday. "We
know every team plays differently and so we have to treat each game like a
new one."
Everton were crowned Premier League 2 champions last season as they clinched
the league title but have found things more difficult this campaign with
neighbours Liverpool surpassing their record for the majority of the season.
The Reds have now slipped off the top spot in the division though, with
Arsenal and Leicester City gunning for the title. A win for West Ham on
Monday would see the Irons leapfrog Everton – and Chelsea – into fifth and
Holland is keen to return to his former club and do exactly that. "It'll be
strange to head back to the team where I spent so many years of my football
career," the winger continued. "But at the end of the day it is a game that
we want to win and I will give 100 per cent to try and get the three points.
"I still remain friends with many of them, however now that I live in London
I don't get a chance to see them very often, so it will be nice to see my
old teammates."
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Meet Club Captain Noble at final Coaching Association session
WHUFC.com
There are still spots available for local coaches to attend West Ham
United's fourth and final Official Coaching Association evening of the
2017/18 campaign
There is plenty to look forward to at the night, including meeting a pair of
exciting Hammers guests, which takes place at Chadwell Heath on Tuesday 10
April.
The Association, hosted by the famed Academy of Football, will first welcome
club captain Mark Noble – who of course came through the system as a
youngster – for a question and answer session. The local coaches present
will get the chance to grill the Hammers skipper on everything from coming
through a Premier League's club's youth structure to his coaching influences
at the highest level.
Next, first team coaching assistant Alan Irvine – one of manager David
Moyes' right-hand men – will conduct a training session with some of the
Academy's young players, providing an insight into a top flight footballer's
daily training regime. Irvine – who managed West Bromwich Albion in the
Premier League – has over 20 years of coaching experience and will be on
hand to answer questions from the audience at Chadwell Heath. Each of the
Coaching Association's previous three sessions has attracted more than 50
local coaches, and the likes of former Hammers Matt Upson, Paul Konchesky,
Stuart Pearce and Steve Potts have shared their knowledge at the evenings.
Josh Cullen and Declan Rice attended March's night to talk about growing up
in the Academy of Football, while the FA's Technical Director Dan Ashworth
was a guest at the previous session. The fourth night will be concluded by
Academy Manager Terry Westley, who will review – with the attendees – this
campaign's meetings and outline a plan of what is set to come in 2018/19 as
the Association grows. The evening on Tuesday 10 April begins at 6pm. To
book your place on the session, visit https://www.eticketing.co.uk/whufc,
head to 'find tickets' and look for the Coaching Association, or click
hereto be directed straight to the booking page.
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CHELSEA 1-1 WEST HAM – MATCH REPORT
AUTHOR: BRIAN KNOX. PUBLISHED: 9 APRIL 2018 AT 10:33AM
TheWesthamWay.co.uk
Chelsea FC 1- West Ham United 1
Match Report by @WestHamAmerican
A second half goal by Javier Hernandez earned West Ham a much needed away
point today as the Hammers traveled to Stamford Bridge for a Premier League
London Derby on a rainy Sunday afternoon in East London. The equaliser
coming after a first half Cesar Azpilicueta goal from a poorly defended
Chelsea corner kick gave the hosts the early lead.
For West Ham, they began their day still firmly in the bottom half of the
table and watching many of their fellow relegation threatened peers secure
at least a point in a busy Saturday for the bottom clubs. The Hammer's
remaining schedule features a number of top six opponents and between the
success of the Southampton win and the embarrassment of the Burnley defeat,
one never really knows which team will turn up on match day.
For most of the match it was Chelsea on the front foot. They had the margin
in overall possession and shots, but West Ham defended well. Joe Hart,
reassuming his role as the feature goalkeeper, showed great form today.
Álvaro Morata had not one but two goals disallowed for being offside.
Willian almost opened the scoring himself as he had another sure goal from
short range blocked by Hart. That block set up the corner kick which led to
the Chelsea's only appearance on the score sheet.
The incoming corner kick was headed from Morata across the goal and
Azpilicueta had a slow moving volley from five yards out easily find the
back of the net with some poor defending from the visiting club.
But other than the one goal, West Ham's defenders kept Morata and Willian at
bay. Later when Pedro and Oliver Giroud were brought on, they too, were held
in check by some stout defending from the Claret side.
Moments into the second half, Javier Hernandez was brought on and his
stellar scoring history against Chelsea continued. Arnautovic took
possession from Cahill and Arnie wisely pulled it back for Chicharito who
was positioned in the middle of the area for an easy shot.
With 15 minutes remaining, West Ham took the momentum and had some spirited
efforts to take all three points, but by the final minutes of play, they
were content to play behind the ball and leave Stamford Bridge with a point.
In the second minute of the stoppage time Hart grabbed a Cahill header, and
in the final minute Pedro received a corner but sent his shot over the
crossbar. Finally after playing five minutes added time, West Ham's team and
supporters were able to relax and enjoy the hard-earned point.
The Hammers have a bit of a break, as they don't return to Premier League
play until a Monday night match with Stoke City at the London Stadium. Even
though West Ham have been inconsistent at home, everyone wants to see
Arnautovic continue to torment his former club. A victory Monday night would
get West Ham very close to the mythical safety of 40 league points.
With the tight mass of clubs in the relegation side of the table, any
separation is important, especially with the challenging set of opponents
West Ham must face in the final weeks of this season.
Keep checking TheWestHamWay.co.uk for all our updates on injuries,
transfers, and the latest news from @ExWHUemployee .
Chelsea: Courtois, Rudiger, Alonso, Moses, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Fabregas,
Kante, Hazard, Willian, Morata.
Subs: Caballero, Christensen, Emerson, Drinkwater, Bakayoko, Pedro (78'),
Giroud (78')
West Ham: Hart, Cresswell, Rice, Ogbonna, Zabaleta, Kouyate, Noble, Masuaku,
Fernandes, Joao Mario, Arnautovic.
Subs: Adrian, Evra (64'), Pask, Cullen (85'), Diangana, Hugill, Hernandez
Ref: Kevin Friend
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MONDAY'S NEWS ROUND UP: HART FOCUSED ON HAMMERS, RICE A 'PROUD MAN',
HERNANDEZ 'ONE OF THE BEST'
AUTHOR: DAN CHAPMAN. PUBLISHED: 9 APRIL 2018 AT 2:34PM
TheWesthamWay.co.uk
Good afternoon, Hammers. Here is what is in the news regarding the club
today:
Joe Hart says that he is currently fully focused on West Ham, rather than
England. (Independent)
I have to admit that I have been one of Joe's biggest critics this season,
but he has proved me wrong since he returned to the side. He was absolutely
brilliant yesterday and he showed just how good he can be. I am glad that he
is fully focused on us, and I wouldn't expect anything less. Hopefully he
keeps his form up from now until the end of the season, and if he does then
I think David Moyes has a big decision to make in terms of his future.
David Moyes has downplayed links to Tom Cairney, after the Fulham midfielder
and recent Hammers target was seen sitting behind the West Ham dugout
yesterday. (Evening Standard)
David Moyes is a well known admirer of Cairney, and we know that he was a
target in January. I can see us going for him again in the summer and I do
hope we get him, because he s a very good player.
Everton and West Ham are battling to sign former Manchester United
midfielder Shinji Kagawa in the summer. (HITC)
Kagawa is a player that does not interest me. He has played in the Premier
League before, but he never really got going. I do think that there are
better options out there for us to be considering.
Declan Rice says he is proud to have proved a point against Chelsea
yesterday, years after being released by the Blues. (Evening Standard)
Declan was absolutely outstanding yesterday, and it is quite unbelievable to
think that he is only 18 years old. He is so mature for a young player, and
he looks like he has been playing at the top level for years. He has a very
big future ahead of him, and I fully believe that we are looking at our next
club captain.
Javier Hernandez has called on David Moyes to give him more starts, after
the Mexican striker rescued a point for the Hammers yesterday. (Daily Mail)
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp says that West Ham forward Javier Hernandez
is one of the best finishers in the world, after his goal against Chelsea
yesterday. (Sky Sports)
Javier Hernandez is a natural goalscorer. He has scored goals at every club
he has played for, and I agree with Redknapp when he says he is one of the
best. Yesterday is a perfect example as to why we signed him, and he
deserves more starts in this team. We have a very good squad when they are
all playing at 100%, and we need to start building the team around Hernandez
in my opinion.
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Statistically speaking, safety beckons
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have a less than TWO per cent chance of being relegated after
picking up four points from their last two outings. Last week's 3-0 defeat
of Southampton coupled with a valuable draw at Stamford Bridge yesterday has
lifted David Moyes side to 14th in the Premier League table with 34 points
from 32 games - meaning that two more wins should be enough to guarantee
survival. And according to Euro Club Index, the Hammers are now only
joint-seventh likeliest to be relegated at the end of the current campaign.
Hot favourites to follow West Bromwich Albion - who looked doomed with a
potential survivial chance of less than 0.005 per cent - are Stoke City, who
West Ham face in another vital relegation clash at the Olympic Stadium next
Monday. The Potters' chance of relegation stands at 85 per cent following
their latest defeat at home to Tottenham last weekend. Meanwhile the final
relegation place appears to be a battle between Southampton (53 per cent
chance of relegation) and Huddersfield (44 per cent).
Crystal Palace and Swansea are both considered to have a six per cent chance
of suffering the drop, whilst West Ham and Brighton & Hove Albion are level
pegging at two per cent each - as the graph below indicates.
West Ham Utd: Remaining Premier League fixtures
16 April: Stoke City (h)
22 April: Arsenal (a)
29 April: Manchester City (h)
5 May: Leicester City (a)
10 May: Manchester Utd (h)
13 May: Everton (h)
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Ref Watch: Dermot Gallagher
Last Updated: 09/04/18 3:37pm
SSN
Chelsea 1-1 West Ham
INCIDENT: Marko Arnautovic goes down in the area under a challenge from
N'Golo Kante
DERMOT'S VERDICT: Penalty, but impossible for the referee to give from his
position
DERMOT SAYS: Toughest decision of the weekend for a referee. The argument
is, does he [Kante] get the man first? I think he does get Arnautovic and
then he plays the ball to the left. But because of where the ball travels,
the referee is convinced that Kante has played that ball. Everything the
referee sees tells him that Kante got that ball.
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Javier Hernandez ready to quit West Ham in the summer after growing
frustrated by lack of regular football
The Mexican came off the bench at Chelsea on Sunday to score West Ham's
equaliser in the 1-1 draw but is open to offers
The Mirror
ByDarren Lewis
15:28, 9 APR 2018
Super sub Javier Hernandez is ready to quit West Ham this summer in search
of more regular first-team football. The Mexican goal machine, 29, revealed
to Mirrorfootball earlier this season that he'd been approached by rival
Premier League clubs in January - only to have their interest vetoed by the
Hammers.
On Sunday, however, he came off the bench at Chelsea on Sunday to score West
Ham's equaliser in the 1-1 draw. Mirrorfootball understands he is remains
open to offers and will consider his future this summer. He said: "I am
looking to play 90 minutes every game."
Sunday's game was the fourth time that Hernandez has scored after coming on
as a substitute at Stamford Bridge. The previous three came against Chelsea
when he was at Manchester United. Hernandez has only started, however, 16
games this season since moving to West Ham, coming off the bench on a
further nine occasions. In the meantime he has urged David Moyes to play him
more regularly as the Hammers fight their way out of relegation trouble. "I
want to give a headache to the manager like he has all over the squad. Some
players are injured and coming back. We all want to play more than 20
minutes."Everybody wants to give everything to be in the team. I say thank
you to the fans. Since my first day here, they have supported me well. "They
shout my name and sing my songs. It was a good weekend for us because they
were singing my name, then I scored and I could celebrate with them. It was
a very good point. We are all very happy."
West Ham's point came on the back of their impressive win over fellow
strugglers Southampton last week. Hernandez' equaliser at Chelsea cancelled
out the opening goal netted by Cesar Azpilicueta. Hernandez said: "After the
good home performance against Southampton, we wanted to show consistency. We
did it. We played better in the second half and tried to counter-attack
Chelsea. We showed that already in some bits, but they are Chelsea. "They
have unbelievable players, world-class, and you can never relax against
them. We showed great concentration and thankfully Joe Hart had a very good
performance. We got a very important point."
Hernandez also paid tribute to England goalkeeper Joe Hart who rolled back
the years to pull off three world class saves. He went on: "Joe was the Most
Valuable Player today. He helped us win the point. Now we can work with a
lot of confidence. We have another final next week, against another
relegation-threatened team in Stoke. "We will fight and give everything for
the three points which would help us get out of the relegation fight
completely."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 10
Monday, April 9
Daily WHUFC News - 9th April 2018
Super sub Chicharito earns Hammers London derby point
WHUFC.com
Chicharito's instant impact from the substitutes' bench helped West Ham
United hold Chelsea to a 1-1 London derby draw in the Premier League on
Sunday.
The Mexican was introduced with 20 minutes remaining at Stamford Bridge and
had the ball in the net three minutes later, coolly side-footing home Marko
Arnautovic's clever cut-back to level the score. The hosts had taken a first
half lead when Cesar Azpilicueta flicked in following a Chelsea corner, but
David Moyes' Hammers fought back with character in the second half to earn
themselves an important point. The hosts applied the pressure for the
majority of the first half and almost took the lead early on. Just three
minutes in, Eden Hazard charged into some space on the right-hand-side of
the box before firing across Joe Hart in goal but just wide of the far post.
A quarter-of-an-hour in, the Hammers created their best opening. Arthur
Masuaku picked out Marko Arnautovic in the penalty area - as he did so well
against Southampton last weekend - but the Austrian could not get the ball
out of his feet and his effort was eventually blocked. Ten minutes later,
Antonio Conte's men thought they had taken the lead - Alvaro Morata was
slipped in cleverly by the impressive Hazard, and though he slipped the ball
under Hart to find the back of the net, up went the assistant referee's flag
on the far side.
West Ham earn a point at Stamford BridgeJust before the half hour mark, the
same pair combined once again but Morata this time could not get his effort
on target. Hazard, jinking his way past Angelo Ogbonna, picked out the
Spaniard in the six-yard-box but the forward's flick dribbled wide. Next,
Willian curled an attempt wide shortly before Hart prevented him bagging
with a wonderful save, but from the resulting corner it was 1-0 Chelsea. The
short set-piece was eventually clipped into the box by Victor Moses, and
after Morata's knock-down, Azpilicueta was there to take one touch before
flicking in. The second half began in a similar fashion, with Chelsea going
close. Willian was again the man to have the shot, but he dragged the
12-yard attempt wide of the far post. The Hammers soon after charged up the
other end, and Joao Mario was able to lay-off for Arnautovic in the D on the
edge of the box, but Courtois held the No7's effort.
For the second time of the afternoon, a Blues goal was then ruled out for
offside. Willian was allowed space to cross low from the left, and there to
meet his centre was Morata again, but up went the flag once again as the
summer signing tapped in. Willian - most certainly in the mood at Stamford
Bridge - cut inside Masuaku with 25 minutes remaining, but lashed his
left-footed strike wide again. A pivotal moment in the London derby then
occurred - manager David Moyes replaced Edimilson Fernandes with Chicharito,
and his impact was immediate. A long ball was not dealt with at all well by
Gary Cahill, and Arnautovic was able to pick up in the box, spin, and cut
back for the sub. With plenty of blue bodies in front of him, the Mexican
kept his cool and finished expertly to get the Hammers back on level terms.
Looking for a goal to put them back in front, Chelsea charged forward soon
after and Hart was called into action. Flying to his right, the England
goalkeeper superbly tipped over Alonso's fierce drive. The stopper was again
the man gaining the plaudits minutes later as he this time dived the
opposite way to tip sub Giroud's goalbound header round the post. Despite
the late pressure though, the Hammers held on with steel and determination,
and collected what could be a very important point to put themselves six
points ahead of Southampton in 18thplace.
Chelsea: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Cahill, Rudiger, Moses (Pedro 78), Fabregas,
Kante, Alonso, Hazard, Willian, Morata (Giroud 78).
Subs not used: Caballero, Drinkwater, Bakayoko, Christensen, Emerson.
West Ham United: Hart, Zabaleta, Rice, Ogbonna, Cresswell (Evra 64),
Masuaku, Noble, Kouyate, Fernandes (Chicharito 70), Joao Mario (Cullen 85),
Arnautovic.
Subs not used: Adrian, Pask, Diangana, Hugill.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes: We hung in, stuck at it and got the point
WHUFC.com
David Moyes said his West Ham United team 'hung in, stuck at it and got the
point' at Chelsea on Sunday. The Hammers fell behind to Cesar Azpilicueta's
first-half opener and were indebted to a series of superb Joe Hart saves
before substitute Chicharito grabbed a deserved 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge
with a typically accurate first-time finish 17 minutes from time.
Manager Moyes was rightly proud if his team's resilience. Having seen them
concede eleven in their previous three away matches, the Scot could have
been forgiven for being concerned about how his team would react after
falling behind, but in the end he need not have worried. "We were playing
against a really good team," he observed. "They are quick, they have some
terrific attacking players and we had to deal with them well. We didn't
always deal with the well, but I think we did a really good job today. "Just
stay in the game, that was the key. The first goal was diabolical for us.
Chelsea can score goals in other ways, but to do it like that was really bad
from us. Then there was a five or ten-minute period before half time and we
couldn't afford to lose another goal then. They were very good at times, but
we hung in, stuck at it and got the point."
While Hart and his defenders stood firm at one end, Chicharito added
noticeable energy at the other as soon as he entered the fray with 20
minutes to go. After holding up play superbly, he made his way into the
penalty area and converted when Marko Arnautovic pulled the ball back into
his path. "Chicharito won't thank me for bringing him on as a sub, but look
at him over the years - he always gets goals and he's a great penalty box
striker," Moyes purred, before adding that West Ham could even have had a
late penalty when N'Golo Kante challenged him late on. "He finds space to
get goals and chances and he did it today. He gave us something else up
front but any time you open up against Chelsea, you're always liable and we
had to make sure we were concentrating too. "Marko had a great chance, and
we seem to think it was a penalty for us. It could have been better but I'm
delighted to get a point."
That is four points from six since West Ham had an enforced three-week break
from Premier League action in March, and with 34 now on the board, two more
wins from the final six matches should see the east Londoners safe. "We've
tried to pick things up in the last few weeks to get us ready [for the
run-in], but look, in the Premier League, you never know and you have to be
on it every game. "Small things; it could have gone away from us today but
Joe Hart made a couple of outstanding saves in the second half when we
needed it, and they're the small bits you need to make sure you pick up the
points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chicharito and Hart: We were clever and focused in Chelsea draw
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalscorer Chicharito and goalkeeper Joe Hart described the
Hammers' performance against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as clever and
focused after they picked up a point with Sunday's 1-1 draw. It took Mexican
forward Chicharito just three minutes after coming on as a second half
substitute to level the score in the London derby after Cesar Azpilicueta
had given the hosts a first period lead. And keeper Hart's influence on the
game was huge, with the No25 making a string of vital, flying saves to
frustrate the Blues who piled on the pressure after West Ham had equalised.
But the England international praised the way the Hammers stuck with the
match despite falling behind, and was delighted with the final outcome. He
said: 'It's nice to stay in the game. Chicha has come on - after being on
the other side of the world and being poorly - and we're so glad he was fit
and got that vital second goal. "We looked dangerous in the second half.
First half, I thought we were poor given the standards we are trying to set
at this Club, but it is important we were able to stay strong and fight back
in a really difficult venue. "They're the champions and they had a poor
result last week so we knew they would be at it today. They created a lot
and caused a lot of havoc but we stood strong, we believed in the process
and we got the result."
Chicharito continued an incredible scoring record against Chelsea with
Sunday's goal - he now has nine strikes in 14 matches against the side
throughout his career. When asked if he could explain his success against
the Hammers' London rivals, the forward laughed:"I'm just sorry to Chelsea
fans! Sometimes these things happen. It's difficult to explain. "The most
important thing is that we got the point, though. We have added another
point to try and stay away from [the threat of] relegation. "I think in
these games, you have to be clever and focused to stop a side like Chelsea.
We're glad we could do that today to get this point. Now we have our final
against Stoke next week."
With that crucial clash against the Potters now next on the horizon for
David Moyes' team, Hart also insisted the focus shifts instantly to the
London Stadium fixture. "We're moving in the right direction, but you've
seen this league; one day you've got a big smile on your face and the next
you don't," he continued.
"Next Monday against Stoke is our game of the season now, so maybe if we get
a result there our smile will be stronger. But that's the future - we are on
the present now and we have 34 points, six ahead of the relegation zone and
that's great for us. "I'm [personally] very focused on West Ham at the
moment - that's my job and that's what I'm here to do, to fight for this
team. "We are creating a really good spirit in the team, right the way
through, from the injured boys, the boys on the bench, we stick together on
and off the pitch and today was a good example of that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies score ten in win over QPR
WHUFC.com
An astonishing ten goals from West Ham United Ladies secured the team's
biggest league win of the campaign against QPR Ladies. Three goals in the
opening 20 minutes - from Amber Stobbs, Chantelle Mackie, and Kelly
Wealthall - put the Hammers well on their way to an impressive victory, with
Ellie Zoepfl adding a fourth with a header on 34 minutes. The American made
it five just ten minutes after the restart before Wealthall nabbed her
second, with Rosie Kmita making it seven less than a minute after her
teammate's goal. And Wealthall completed her hat-trick, and the rout, as
she showed off her striker's instinct, tapping in after Andria Georgiou
struck the cross-bar. There was still time for Stobbs to get her second,
before Georgiou netted another finish from distance to make it ten. An
impressive first period for the Hammers got started after just ten minutes.
Stobbs collected the ball around 25 yards from goal, turned her defender and
unleashed a wicked shot towards the net. Although QPR goalkeeper Dolbear got
a hand to the effort, the strike was too powerful, and found the top corner.
Four minutes later and West Ham had their second. Some good pressure earned
Karen Ray's side a corner, which Kmita whipped in. Mackie was the quickest
to react, deftly heading in at the near post to register her first goal of
the season for the side. Striker Wealthall got in on the act before a
quarter of the match had been played. Some excellent work from Kmita inside
the penalty area saw the ball end up with Stobbs. The No10 whipped in a
delicious cross which found Wealthall, who had made a well-timed run,
allowing the 17-year-old to coolly steer the ball into the net. West Ham
weren't done there though. The Irons had looked menacing from corners
throughout the first period, and Kmita once again made QPR pay with a
set-piece. This time, it was Zoepfl who rose highest, powerfully scoring
with a headed effort.
The second period followed a similar vein for the Irons, with Stobbs testing
the QPR shot-stopper with a low effort just after the restart. On 56
minutes West Ham added to their goal tally. Zoepfl found the net with her
second goal of the game, firing a low effort into the bottom corner from the
edge of the penalty area after a good spell of pressure. Mackie, motivated
by her earlier finish, also continued to push forward with the right-back
the closest to a Stobbs free-kick, before also seeing a high shot saved at
the near post by Dolbear. On 69 minutes the Hammers got their sixth goal.
Stobbs, out on the right, played in a lofted cross, which was met by Kmita.
The ball looked close to going over the line, with Wealthall in the right
place to make sure the Irons got the goal. If there was any debate about
the sixth, there was none about the seventh just a minute later. Another
Stobbs cross was again met by Kmita, but this time the No7's deft header was
definitely in the net, as it nestled into the bottom corner. With less than
ten minutes to play, Wealthall secured her hat-trick. Andria Georgiou
unleashed a powerful strike that ricocheted off the cross-bar, and the
striker was in the right place to tuck home the rebound.
West Ham United Ladies: Connatser; Mackie, Wheeler, Austin (Sampson 57'),
Auguste; Georgiou, Clark, Stobbs; Zoepfl (Chong 57'), Wealthall, Kmita
Substitutes: Chong, Sampson, Mabey
Goals: Stobbs 10' 90', Mackie 14', Wealthall 20' 69' 81', Zoepfl 34' 56',
Kmita 70', Georgiou 90+1'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wheeler: Ladies upped the intensity to put ten past QPR
WHUFC.com
Hannah Wheeler reckons West Ham United Ladies showed they could play at a
much higher level of intensity after the side completed an incredible 10-0
win over QPR Ladies. A hat-trick from Kelly Wealthall, Two goals apiece for
Amber Stobbs and Ellie Zoepfl, and finishes for Chantelle Mackie, Rosie
Kmita and Andria Georgiou saw the Ladies earn their biggest league win of
the season so far in Uxbridge. The Hammers impressed with their tenacity
and relentless attack in the huge win, and Wheeler feels the victory was
deserved given the level the Ladies hit during the match. The centre-back
told whufc.com: "Ten goals, three points, another clean-sheet. It's such a
good feeling to keep this winning menality going. Everyone is on a high and
we're playing really well. We've been working hard in training - we knew QPR
wouldn't make it easy for us - but I think we just upped our intensity and
absolutely got the result we deserved.
"Obviously there's parts that could have been better, and we'll look at
those this week, but we're really happy with how we've played." Sunday's
league fixture with Rangers came in the middle of two Cup finals for West
Ham United Ladies. Karen Ray's side beat Charlton Athletic Women 2-1 in the
Goodmove.co.uk Women's Cup final on Wednesday, and will contest the FA WPL
Plate final against Luton next Sunday. Although the match with QPR was
played in the centre of the 11 day period between the two finals, Wheeler is
adamant that the focus was fully on defeating the Hoops, something that has
been proven with the result. "Wednesday, winning the Cup, beating Charlton -
I don't think anything could have been better about that night," Wheeler
continued: "And we know we've got another final next week, but we also knew
that we had to put all that aside and fully concenrate on this match. "In
order to play at our best and win next week, we first had to do the same
today, and we deserved to win today. Everyone played really well."
The clean-sheet was West Ham's ninth in 11 matches since the start of 2018,
a run that Wheeler has been a vital aspect of. The defender is thrilled with
her own performances, but knows the competition is there if she doesn't
continue her form. She added: "I'm really happy with how I've been playing.
Obviously there's a lot of pressure and I think there's a lot of competition
as well. There are players on the bench who are working just as hard and
deserve to be out on the pitch playing, so it's on me as an individual to
keep lifting my game, bossing my performances. I'm happy with how I played
today."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea 1-1 West Ham United
By Steve Sutcliffe
BBC Sport
Javier Hernandez's second-half equaliser boosted West Ham's Premier League
survival prospects and damaged Chelsea's slim hopes of finishing in the top
four on an emotional day at Stamford Bridge. Cesar Azpilicueta had prodded
the hosts ahead following Alvaro Morata's knock down, and the Spaniard
dedicated his goal to the club's former England midfielder Ray Wilkins, who
died on Wednesday aged 61. There was also a minute's applause prior to
kick-off, with the Chelsea players wearing black armbands in memory of
Wilkins. However, Hernandez, on as a substitute, struck his ninth career
goal against the Blues to earn a point for the Hammers. The Mexican's
effort, driven into the corner after Marko Arnautovic's fine cut-back, moves
David Moyes' team six points clear of the relegation places.
It was only West Ham's third touch inside the Chelsea's penalty area. In
contrast, Antonio Conte's men - who are in fifth but 10 points behind
Tottenham and Liverpool above them - had 23 shots on goal and were good
value for their lead for long periods. And but for a combination of
profligate finishing and excellent goalkeeping from West Ham keeper Joe Hart
- on loan from league leaders Manchester City - the Blues would have
realised that aim.
Moyes' horrendous record at Stamford Bridge looked well on course to stretch
to a ninth defeat in a 15-game winless run. The Scot has still not managed a
victory from 30 outings against a 'big six' side since a 2-1 win for Everton
over Manchester City in December 2010 - but Hernandez's strike altered the
complexion of the game while delivering a precious point. The 29-year-old,
whose future and relationship with his manager has been questioned, once
again showed his predatory instincts to turn the ball beyond Thibaut
Courtois three minutes after coming on. Hernandez has now appeared four
times as a substitute at Stamford Bridge in the league - and scored on all
four occasions. This was the former Manchester United forward's ninth in 14
appearances against Chelsea, more than he has managed against any other
Premier League opponent.
Stamford Bridge pays tribute to Wilkins
After an earlier a pre-match tribute, the stadium rose in the eighth minute
to acclaim their former number eight Wilkins. A midfielder of grace and
vision, Wilkins, who also worked as assistant manager at Chelsea, was
revered at Stamford Bridge and would have enjoyed the performance of Eden
Hazard, a player exemplifies those qualities in Conte's modern-day team.
With West Ham in stifling mode, the Belgium forward cut loose after 20
minutes. Exploiting the space behind Cheikhou Kouyate, Hazard fashioned a
series of chances for the Blues to wrap things up before the break. As his
influence grew, Morata also came alive. The Spaniard had two goals
disallowed for offside and Hazard was unfortunate to be denied a late winner
by Hart's excellent positioning.
Man of the match - Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
Eden Hazard was at his elusive best for Chelsea, creating several chances
for the hosts to score before half-time.
'We can see our season in this game' - what they said Chelsea manager
Antonio Conte: "I think with this game we can see our season. We can create
a lot of chances but we cannot take them. "We are not clinical and then we
concede two shots and concede a goal. "When you don't score but create the
chances it's very difficult to win. This game explains our season." On
forwards potentially lacking confidence: "Morata scored two offside goals.
He does not lack confidence and we created enough chances for Hazard,
Willian and Morata to score. But I repeat, this game explains our season."
West Ham manager David Moyes: "It certainly is a prized point for us. We
were playing against a team who are quality and have some terrific attacking
players who played well. "The key was that we were never out of it, because
the way they got the first goal was diabolical. Chelsea can get a goal in
other ways but from a corner was really bad from our point of view." On
substitute Javier Hernandez scoring the equaliser: "Chicharito won't thank
me for bringing him on as a substitute, but he's a great penalty box striker
and he always gets goals. "Every time you open up against Chelsea it's a bit
dangerous, but we defended well on the whole."
Chelsea failed to win a league game at home under Conte in which they led at
half-time for the first time - ending an 18-match run.
West Ham avoided defeat in an away Premier League game against the reigning
champions for only the third time. They beat Manchester United in 2001-02
and drew 2-2 at Chelsea in 2015-16.
All five of Azpilicueta's league goals in 191 Chelsea appearances have come
against teams beginning with W (two against Watford, two against West Brom
and now one against West Ham).
Morata's assist for Azpilicueta was the seventh time the two have combined
in the Premier League this season - no two players have combined for more
goals this campaign.
Moyes has not won any of his 20 away matches at Stamford Bridge as a manager
with five clubs (Preston, Everton, Manchester United, Sunderland and West
Ham), losing 13.
What's next?
Chelsea travel to the south coast to face struggling Southampton on Saturday
(12:30 BST kick-off). West Ham welcome relegation-threatened Stoke to London
Stadium on Monday, 16 April (20:00).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
#REFWATCH: KEVIN FRIEND - CHELSEA VS WEST HAM
AUTHOR: SAMTWHWREF. PUBLISHED: 8 APRIL 2018 AT 10:18PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @SamRoyden
For the first time in a while, the football gods were looking down in West
Ham's favour as teams around the Hammers dropped points leaving West Ham
five points above Southampton in 18th. After a convincing win against
Southampton last week, a point at Chelsea would have sufficed and the team
didn't let us down. A hard fought 95 minutes, which saw West Ham keep Hazard
and Willian at bay and Joe Hart pulling off some great saves, putting West
Ham on 34 points with six games to go.
Kevin Friend was the man in charge for the last derby of the season in an up
and down Premier League for both sides. Thus far this season, Friend has
officiated only 16 Premier League games, which may have been a concern going
into a London Derby but Friend and his officiating team performed well and
were in control throughout.
During the first half, Friend wasn't called into action much but it was his
assistant referee who was in a great position to see a disallowed Álvaro
Morata goal after the Spanish forward was a foot or so beyond Declan Rice -
who has been brilliant in the last two games. Friend played advantage very
well during the first half and with the introduction of The Advantage Rule
of Law 5 into the game, it's been great for referees to review whether there
is an advantage to be played and keep the game flowing.
Both teams dialled up their intensity in the second half with West Ham
chasing an equaliser and Chelsea piling on the pressure to see the game out.
Kevin Friend was a busier man in the second half with a couple of big
decisions. Again, it was his assistant referee who was in the right place to
see Álvaro Morata beyond the last West Ham defender, only to see assistant
referee's flag raised in the air ruling out another goal,
Apart from an undisputed caution for Mark Noble for pulling Eden Hazard's
shirt, there was also a shout for a penalty after Kolo Kante challenged
Marko Arnautović inside the Chelsea penalty area. During the live incident,
my gut instinct said it was a penalty, potentially could have been my West
Ham bias thoughts, but after video replay did confirm it but the decision
was very, very difficult in my opinion, we're talking split second decisions
and the slightest of movement.
When I reviewed the first video replay I couldn't tell you whether it was a
penalty straight away, I couldn't make up my mind in that split second. Did
Kante's toes catch the ball ever so slightly? Did Arnautović touch the ball
to make it change direction? After the 4th or 5th replay and 45 seconds
later, I finally came to the decision that there was contact by Kante on
Arnautović right foot and not the ball, Kevin Friend has a less than a
second to make his mind up taking into consideration the only angle that he
had. The last touch did come from Arnautović with his right foot, it changed
the direction of the ball and should have been a penalty - but, I understand
why Kevin Friend didn't award the penalty.
It's clear from the replays that the change in direction of the ball was the
deciding factor in Kevin Friend's decision. What Friend didn't and couldn't
see with the naked eye was that Kolo Kante strikes the West Ham man's right
foot and not clean contact with the ball.
I thought Kevin Friend wasn't in the best position to make the decision, he
could have been a little closer to the incident but I do think that Gary
Cahill blocked his view when Kante tackled Arnautović. This may have
compromised his view and as a referee you have to be 100% confident that
it's a foul to award the penalty.
I do sympathise with Kevin Friend because taking all of the above into
consideration, it was an extremely difficult decision and as a referee, you
can only make a decision on what you can see - I would suggest that the
assistant referee would have had a better view but being side on, it would
have been as difficult as where Friend was positioned. The change direction
of direction of the ball came within the split second of Kolo Kante making
contact with Arnautović, and the illusion was that Kante clearly made
contact with the ball. Was this a clear and obvious error? That is
subjective and if VAR was enabled during the game I think it may have been
under review, as the only angle that would have given you a definitive
answer was a front view, which neither Assistant or Referee have the luxury
of having without VAR.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea 1-1 West Ham: Javier Hernandez earns David Moyes' side valuable
point
By Oliver Yew
Last Updated: 08/04/18 7:20pm
SSN
Javier Hernandez's second-half strike cancelled out Cesar Azpilicueta's
opener as West Ham secure a valuable point with a 1-1 draw against Chelsea
at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea, who paid heartfelt tribute to their late
captain Ray Wilkins before and during the game, dominated the opening 45
minutes and were deservedly ahead when Azpilicueta tapped home from close
range in the 36th minute. Antonio Conte's side's dominance continued after
the break but the second goal never came as West Ham stayed in the game, and
they were rewarded when substitute Hernandez (73) snatched a point for the
visitors. The draw sees David Moyes' side move six points clear of the
relegation zone, while Chelsea are 10 points behind Tottenham in the race
for fourth with six games remaining. On what was an emotional afternoon at
Stamford Bridge, Wilkins was remembered ahead of kick-off with a minute of
applause as a seat in the dugout was draped in his No 8 shirt. Wilkins' name
rang around the ground once again in the eighth minute with both sets of
fans singing the Chelsea legend's name.
After a quiet opening, Chelsea had the ball in the back of the net in the
25th minute but Alvaro Morata was correctly flagged for offside after being
played in by Eden Hazard.
Morata's flick then drifted wide of the far post after yet more good work
from Hazard before Willian fired inches wide from the edge of the penalty
area, and the Brazil international was in again in the 35th minute after yet
more sensational passing from Chelsea but Joe Hart raced off his line to
make a brilliant block.
Chelsea' dominance eventually told from the resultant corner and West Ham
switched off as Morata headed Victor Moses' cross back into the danger area
where Azpilicueta was there tap home from inside the six-yard box. Chelsea
went in search for a second after the break and Willian had an immediate
chance to double the hosts' advantage but his shot fizzed past the far post.
Conte's side thought they had their second when Morata swept home Willian's
cross, but again the offside flag was up to deny the Spain striker before
Moses curled wide of the upright.
They were punished midway through the second-half as Gary Cahill's poor
defensive header fell to Marko Arnautovic and his cut back picked out
Hernandez, who produced a sweet strike from just inside the area to beat
Thibaut Courtois. In a frantic final 10 minutes, Hart had to be at his best
to produce two saves to deny Marcos Alonso and Olivier Giroud, while West
Ham thought they should have had a penalty as N'Golo Kante's last-ditch
tackle sent Arnautovic to the floor, but referee Kevin Friend remained
unmoved.
Opta stats
Chelsea failed to win a Premier League game at Stamford Bridge under Conte
in which they led at half-time for the first time, having won all 18 of
their previous games under the Italian when ahead at the interval.
West Ham avoided defeat in an away Premier League game against the reigning
champions for only the third time, beating Man Utd in 2001-02 and drawing
2-2 with Chelsea in 2015-16.
Azpilicueta scored his fifth Premier League goal for Chelsea in his 191st
appearance - all five of his goals have been against sides beginning with W
(two against Watford, two against West Brom and one against West Ham).
Morata assisted Azpilicueta's goal, the seventh time the two have combined
in the Premier League this season - no two players have combined for more
goals this campaign.
Hernandez has scored four of his 16 Premier League goals as a substitute
against Chelsea - only one player in Premier League history has scored more
sub goals against an opponent, with Julian Joachim scoring five against
Derby County. This was the fourth time Hernandez has appeared as a
substitute at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League and the Mexican has
found the net in all four of those games (four goals).
Man of the Match - Joe Hart
Hart put in a reminder to England manager Gareth Southgate's with a fine
performance at Stamford Bridge, which included some world-class saves. In
the first-half, the 30-year-old was quickly off his line to make a smart
block to deny Willian before two saves in the final minutes helped the
Hammers to what could be a crucial point in their bid to stay in the Premier
League. The first saw him show excellent reactions in tipping Alonso's
powerful drive over the crossbar before quick feet allowed him to tip
Giroud's goal-bound header around the post.
England Watch
Gareth Southgate's assistant Steve Holland was in the stands to see Joe Hart
produce a man-of-the-match display. It was a timely return to form for the
30-year-old as the battle to become England's No. 1 heats up. It wasn't such
good news for Gary Cahill, who played the full 90 minutes at the heart of
Chelsea's back three. It was his poor defensive header which led to Javier
Hernandez's equaliser. Meanwhile, there was an injury blow for Aaron
Cresswell. The left-back had to leave the field in the 63rd minute after
landing awkwardly challenging for a high ball with Willian.
Slaven Bilic, who was watching the game for Sky Sports, said: "It was his
best game I think. He kept West Ham in the game because in the second half,
it looked more like Chelsea were going to score the second goal rather than
West Ham would equalise.
Jamie Redknapp agreed, saying: "He's probably given Gareth Southgate a
problem he didn't want to a certain extent becaue he is maybe looking at
Jack Butland or Jordan Pickford and all of a sudden, Joe Hart has come into
the equation. A nice problem, but one he might not have wanted."
What's next?
Chelsea are back in Premier League action next Saturday when they travel to
St Mary's to face Southampton, live on Sky Sports Premier League from
11.30am.
West Ham are also live on Sky Sports Premier League next weekend when they
host Stoke City at the London Stadium on Monday Night Football (April 16 -
from 7pm).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham striker Javier Hernandez one of the best finishers in the game,
says Jamie Redknapp
Last Updated: 08/04/18 8:20pm
SSN
Javier Hernandez is "one of the best finishers in the game" according to
Jamie Redknapp, after the West Ham striker sealed a point against Chelsea.
The Mexican scored three minutes after coming on as a substitute in the 1-1
draw, scoring with a great sweeping strike from just inside the area. It was
the fourth time Hernandez has appeared as a substitute at Stamford Bridge in
the Premier League, and having found the net in all four of those games,
Redknapp was full of praise for his ability to finish. "He does a great job
holding the ball up for his team, being aggressive and holding off Gary
Cahill. It's a good piece of play. He's one of the best finishers in the
game," he said. "He is up there with the best and it's a brilliant finish,
it's unstoppable. Great forwards seem to have that extra bit of time. "He's
almost stumbled across it but playing Marko Arnautovic as the striker has
really helped West Ham. He's more mobile, he gets hold of the ball, he can
do something with it and even the penalty appeal, that's him at his best.
"But when you have 70 minutes and you need someone to come on - an assassin,
a goalscorer - that's what Hernandez brings. He's one of the best in the
business."
Former West Ham manager Slaven Bilic joined Redknapp in the Super Sunday
studio and after signing Hernandez for the club before his departure, he
agreed with the Sky Sports pundit about the striker. "He's a natural
goalscorer and he's there where he has to be. He's not dangerous outside the
box or around the box, but in the box, he's the best finisher. Everything he
thinks about is being in the box to come for a second ball," Bilic said. "He
had some difficult times in the beginning. I don't think he did all of
pre-season because of the Confederations Cup but he is a brilliant
goalscorer. "He's a brilliant guy, a good person to have in the dressing
room. He doesn't cause problems, he can be angry but for five or ten
minutes, no more than that. He is a good guy."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joe Hart needed big game to boost England chances, says David Moyes
By Oliver Yew
Last Updated: 08/04/18 8:26pm
SSN
West Ham boss David Moyes was full of praise for goalkeeper Joe Hart after
his man-of-the-match performance helped earn a 1-1 draw at Chelsea on
Sunday.
Hart, whose England World Cup spot is in jeopardy following his struggles
this season, kept Chelsea at bay with a string of fine saves as the Hammers
held on for another point to put towards their survival bid. Moyes insists
Hart's showing was a timely reminder to Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate,
who has until May 14 to give England's 35-man provisional squad to FIFA
before whittling it down to 23 by June 4.
When asked about Hart's England chances, Moyes told Sky Sports: "I think Joe
probably needed a game like that. "Joe showed today why he has so many caps
and so many medals, so that will be good for him. "When you do play the big
teams you need your goalkeeper to play well and our goalkeeper played very
well."
Substitute Javier Hernandez had only been on the field for three minutes
when he swept home the equaliser to cancel out Cesar Azpilicueta's
first-half opener, and Moyes was not surprised by the Mexican striker's
impact off the bench. "Everybody knows what Chicharito is capable of," the
Scot said. "He's a great penalty box striker, he's someone that finds
himself in space or gets in space in the box and he's had a great career
scoring goals in the box. "I think a lot of credit has to go to Mark Noble,
who plays a great ball in behind and Marko keeps the ball alive and pulls it
back, but it's a great finish by Chicho."
The point sees West Ham reach 34 points, six above Southampton who occupy
the final place in the relegation zone with six games to play. However,
Moyes insists he will not be happy until his side reach the 40-point mark.
He added: "With the teams we've got to play between now and the end of the
season, taking a point from any of the big teams is a good result. "I've
always said 40 (points) so until we get that then we won't be happy. It may
not end up needing as much as that but until you get that you can't feel as
though you are completely safe. "Our position is not comfortable enough yet.
From where we are I want to try and push us on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Chicharito's instant impact from the substitutes' bench helped West Ham
United hold Chelsea to a 1-1 London derby draw in the Premier League on
Sunday.
The Mexican was introduced with 20 minutes remaining at Stamford Bridge and
had the ball in the net three minutes later, coolly side-footing home Marko
Arnautovic's clever cut-back to level the score. The hosts had taken a first
half lead when Cesar Azpilicueta flicked in following a Chelsea corner, but
David Moyes' Hammers fought back with character in the second half to earn
themselves an important point. The hosts applied the pressure for the
majority of the first half and almost took the lead early on. Just three
minutes in, Eden Hazard charged into some space on the right-hand-side of
the box before firing across Joe Hart in goal but just wide of the far post.
A quarter-of-an-hour in, the Hammers created their best opening. Arthur
Masuaku picked out Marko Arnautovic in the penalty area - as he did so well
against Southampton last weekend - but the Austrian could not get the ball
out of his feet and his effort was eventually blocked. Ten minutes later,
Antonio Conte's men thought they had taken the lead - Alvaro Morata was
slipped in cleverly by the impressive Hazard, and though he slipped the ball
under Hart to find the back of the net, up went the assistant referee's flag
on the far side.
West Ham earn a point at Stamford BridgeJust before the half hour mark, the
same pair combined once again but Morata this time could not get his effort
on target. Hazard, jinking his way past Angelo Ogbonna, picked out the
Spaniard in the six-yard-box but the forward's flick dribbled wide. Next,
Willian curled an attempt wide shortly before Hart prevented him bagging
with a wonderful save, but from the resulting corner it was 1-0 Chelsea. The
short set-piece was eventually clipped into the box by Victor Moses, and
after Morata's knock-down, Azpilicueta was there to take one touch before
flicking in. The second half began in a similar fashion, with Chelsea going
close. Willian was again the man to have the shot, but he dragged the
12-yard attempt wide of the far post. The Hammers soon after charged up the
other end, and Joao Mario was able to lay-off for Arnautovic in the D on the
edge of the box, but Courtois held the No7's effort.
For the second time of the afternoon, a Blues goal was then ruled out for
offside. Willian was allowed space to cross low from the left, and there to
meet his centre was Morata again, but up went the flag once again as the
summer signing tapped in. Willian - most certainly in the mood at Stamford
Bridge - cut inside Masuaku with 25 minutes remaining, but lashed his
left-footed strike wide again. A pivotal moment in the London derby then
occurred - manager David Moyes replaced Edimilson Fernandes with Chicharito,
and his impact was immediate. A long ball was not dealt with at all well by
Gary Cahill, and Arnautovic was able to pick up in the box, spin, and cut
back for the sub. With plenty of blue bodies in front of him, the Mexican
kept his cool and finished expertly to get the Hammers back on level terms.
Looking for a goal to put them back in front, Chelsea charged forward soon
after and Hart was called into action. Flying to his right, the England
goalkeeper superbly tipped over Alonso's fierce drive. The stopper was again
the man gaining the plaudits minutes later as he this time dived the
opposite way to tip sub Giroud's goalbound header round the post. Despite
the late pressure though, the Hammers held on with steel and determination,
and collected what could be a very important point to put themselves six
points ahead of Southampton in 18thplace.
Chelsea: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Cahill, Rudiger, Moses (Pedro 78), Fabregas,
Kante, Alonso, Hazard, Willian, Morata (Giroud 78).
Subs not used: Caballero, Drinkwater, Bakayoko, Christensen, Emerson.
West Ham United: Hart, Zabaleta, Rice, Ogbonna, Cresswell (Evra 64),
Masuaku, Noble, Kouyate, Fernandes (Chicharito 70), Joao Mario (Cullen 85),
Arnautovic.
Subs not used: Adrian, Pask, Diangana, Hugill.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moyes: We hung in, stuck at it and got the point
WHUFC.com
David Moyes said his West Ham United team 'hung in, stuck at it and got the
point' at Chelsea on Sunday. The Hammers fell behind to Cesar Azpilicueta's
first-half opener and were indebted to a series of superb Joe Hart saves
before substitute Chicharito grabbed a deserved 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge
with a typically accurate first-time finish 17 minutes from time.
Manager Moyes was rightly proud if his team's resilience. Having seen them
concede eleven in their previous three away matches, the Scot could have
been forgiven for being concerned about how his team would react after
falling behind, but in the end he need not have worried. "We were playing
against a really good team," he observed. "They are quick, they have some
terrific attacking players and we had to deal with them well. We didn't
always deal with the well, but I think we did a really good job today. "Just
stay in the game, that was the key. The first goal was diabolical for us.
Chelsea can score goals in other ways, but to do it like that was really bad
from us. Then there was a five or ten-minute period before half time and we
couldn't afford to lose another goal then. They were very good at times, but
we hung in, stuck at it and got the point."
While Hart and his defenders stood firm at one end, Chicharito added
noticeable energy at the other as soon as he entered the fray with 20
minutes to go. After holding up play superbly, he made his way into the
penalty area and converted when Marko Arnautovic pulled the ball back into
his path. "Chicharito won't thank me for bringing him on as a sub, but look
at him over the years - he always gets goals and he's a great penalty box
striker," Moyes purred, before adding that West Ham could even have had a
late penalty when N'Golo Kante challenged him late on. "He finds space to
get goals and chances and he did it today. He gave us something else up
front but any time you open up against Chelsea, you're always liable and we
had to make sure we were concentrating too. "Marko had a great chance, and
we seem to think it was a penalty for us. It could have been better but I'm
delighted to get a point."
That is four points from six since West Ham had an enforced three-week break
from Premier League action in March, and with 34 now on the board, two more
wins from the final six matches should see the east Londoners safe. "We've
tried to pick things up in the last few weeks to get us ready [for the
run-in], but look, in the Premier League, you never know and you have to be
on it every game. "Small things; it could have gone away from us today but
Joe Hart made a couple of outstanding saves in the second half when we
needed it, and they're the small bits you need to make sure you pick up the
points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chicharito and Hart: We were clever and focused in Chelsea draw
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalscorer Chicharito and goalkeeper Joe Hart described the
Hammers' performance against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as clever and
focused after they picked up a point with Sunday's 1-1 draw. It took Mexican
forward Chicharito just three minutes after coming on as a second half
substitute to level the score in the London derby after Cesar Azpilicueta
had given the hosts a first period lead. And keeper Hart's influence on the
game was huge, with the No25 making a string of vital, flying saves to
frustrate the Blues who piled on the pressure after West Ham had equalised.
But the England international praised the way the Hammers stuck with the
match despite falling behind, and was delighted with the final outcome. He
said: 'It's nice to stay in the game. Chicha has come on - after being on
the other side of the world and being poorly - and we're so glad he was fit
and got that vital second goal. "We looked dangerous in the second half.
First half, I thought we were poor given the standards we are trying to set
at this Club, but it is important we were able to stay strong and fight back
in a really difficult venue. "They're the champions and they had a poor
result last week so we knew they would be at it today. They created a lot
and caused a lot of havoc but we stood strong, we believed in the process
and we got the result."
Chicharito continued an incredible scoring record against Chelsea with
Sunday's goal - he now has nine strikes in 14 matches against the side
throughout his career. When asked if he could explain his success against
the Hammers' London rivals, the forward laughed:"I'm just sorry to Chelsea
fans! Sometimes these things happen. It's difficult to explain. "The most
important thing is that we got the point, though. We have added another
point to try and stay away from [the threat of] relegation. "I think in
these games, you have to be clever and focused to stop a side like Chelsea.
We're glad we could do that today to get this point. Now we have our final
against Stoke next week."
With that crucial clash against the Potters now next on the horizon for
David Moyes' team, Hart also insisted the focus shifts instantly to the
London Stadium fixture. "We're moving in the right direction, but you've
seen this league; one day you've got a big smile on your face and the next
you don't," he continued.
"Next Monday against Stoke is our game of the season now, so maybe if we get
a result there our smile will be stronger. But that's the future - we are on
the present now and we have 34 points, six ahead of the relegation zone and
that's great for us. "I'm [personally] very focused on West Ham at the
moment - that's my job and that's what I'm here to do, to fight for this
team. "We are creating a really good spirit in the team, right the way
through, from the injured boys, the boys on the bench, we stick together on
and off the pitch and today was a good example of that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies score ten in win over QPR
WHUFC.com
An astonishing ten goals from West Ham United Ladies secured the team's
biggest league win of the campaign against QPR Ladies. Three goals in the
opening 20 minutes - from Amber Stobbs, Chantelle Mackie, and Kelly
Wealthall - put the Hammers well on their way to an impressive victory, with
Ellie Zoepfl adding a fourth with a header on 34 minutes. The American made
it five just ten minutes after the restart before Wealthall nabbed her
second, with Rosie Kmita making it seven less than a minute after her
teammate's goal. And Wealthall completed her hat-trick, and the rout, as
she showed off her striker's instinct, tapping in after Andria Georgiou
struck the cross-bar. There was still time for Stobbs to get her second,
before Georgiou netted another finish from distance to make it ten. An
impressive first period for the Hammers got started after just ten minutes.
Stobbs collected the ball around 25 yards from goal, turned her defender and
unleashed a wicked shot towards the net. Although QPR goalkeeper Dolbear got
a hand to the effort, the strike was too powerful, and found the top corner.
Four minutes later and West Ham had their second. Some good pressure earned
Karen Ray's side a corner, which Kmita whipped in. Mackie was the quickest
to react, deftly heading in at the near post to register her first goal of
the season for the side. Striker Wealthall got in on the act before a
quarter of the match had been played. Some excellent work from Kmita inside
the penalty area saw the ball end up with Stobbs. The No10 whipped in a
delicious cross which found Wealthall, who had made a well-timed run,
allowing the 17-year-old to coolly steer the ball into the net. West Ham
weren't done there though. The Irons had looked menacing from corners
throughout the first period, and Kmita once again made QPR pay with a
set-piece. This time, it was Zoepfl who rose highest, powerfully scoring
with a headed effort.
The second period followed a similar vein for the Irons, with Stobbs testing
the QPR shot-stopper with a low effort just after the restart. On 56
minutes West Ham added to their goal tally. Zoepfl found the net with her
second goal of the game, firing a low effort into the bottom corner from the
edge of the penalty area after a good spell of pressure. Mackie, motivated
by her earlier finish, also continued to push forward with the right-back
the closest to a Stobbs free-kick, before also seeing a high shot saved at
the near post by Dolbear. On 69 minutes the Hammers got their sixth goal.
Stobbs, out on the right, played in a lofted cross, which was met by Kmita.
The ball looked close to going over the line, with Wealthall in the right
place to make sure the Irons got the goal. If there was any debate about
the sixth, there was none about the seventh just a minute later. Another
Stobbs cross was again met by Kmita, but this time the No7's deft header was
definitely in the net, as it nestled into the bottom corner. With less than
ten minutes to play, Wealthall secured her hat-trick. Andria Georgiou
unleashed a powerful strike that ricocheted off the cross-bar, and the
striker was in the right place to tuck home the rebound.
West Ham United Ladies: Connatser; Mackie, Wheeler, Austin (Sampson 57'),
Auguste; Georgiou, Clark, Stobbs; Zoepfl (Chong 57'), Wealthall, Kmita
Substitutes: Chong, Sampson, Mabey
Goals: Stobbs 10' 90', Mackie 14', Wealthall 20' 69' 81', Zoepfl 34' 56',
Kmita 70', Georgiou 90+1'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wheeler: Ladies upped the intensity to put ten past QPR
WHUFC.com
Hannah Wheeler reckons West Ham United Ladies showed they could play at a
much higher level of intensity after the side completed an incredible 10-0
win over QPR Ladies. A hat-trick from Kelly Wealthall, Two goals apiece for
Amber Stobbs and Ellie Zoepfl, and finishes for Chantelle Mackie, Rosie
Kmita and Andria Georgiou saw the Ladies earn their biggest league win of
the season so far in Uxbridge. The Hammers impressed with their tenacity
and relentless attack in the huge win, and Wheeler feels the victory was
deserved given the level the Ladies hit during the match. The centre-back
told whufc.com: "Ten goals, three points, another clean-sheet. It's such a
good feeling to keep this winning menality going. Everyone is on a high and
we're playing really well. We've been working hard in training - we knew QPR
wouldn't make it easy for us - but I think we just upped our intensity and
absolutely got the result we deserved.
"Obviously there's parts that could have been better, and we'll look at
those this week, but we're really happy with how we've played." Sunday's
league fixture with Rangers came in the middle of two Cup finals for West
Ham United Ladies. Karen Ray's side beat Charlton Athletic Women 2-1 in the
Goodmove.co.uk Women's Cup final on Wednesday, and will contest the FA WPL
Plate final against Luton next Sunday. Although the match with QPR was
played in the centre of the 11 day period between the two finals, Wheeler is
adamant that the focus was fully on defeating the Hoops, something that has
been proven with the result. "Wednesday, winning the Cup, beating Charlton -
I don't think anything could have been better about that night," Wheeler
continued: "And we know we've got another final next week, but we also knew
that we had to put all that aside and fully concenrate on this match. "In
order to play at our best and win next week, we first had to do the same
today, and we deserved to win today. Everyone played really well."
The clean-sheet was West Ham's ninth in 11 matches since the start of 2018,
a run that Wheeler has been a vital aspect of. The defender is thrilled with
her own performances, but knows the competition is there if she doesn't
continue her form. She added: "I'm really happy with how I've been playing.
Obviously there's a lot of pressure and I think there's a lot of competition
as well. There are players on the bench who are working just as hard and
deserve to be out on the pitch playing, so it's on me as an individual to
keep lifting my game, bossing my performances. I'm happy with how I played
today."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea 1-1 West Ham United
By Steve Sutcliffe
BBC Sport
Javier Hernandez's second-half equaliser boosted West Ham's Premier League
survival prospects and damaged Chelsea's slim hopes of finishing in the top
four on an emotional day at Stamford Bridge. Cesar Azpilicueta had prodded
the hosts ahead following Alvaro Morata's knock down, and the Spaniard
dedicated his goal to the club's former England midfielder Ray Wilkins, who
died on Wednesday aged 61. There was also a minute's applause prior to
kick-off, with the Chelsea players wearing black armbands in memory of
Wilkins. However, Hernandez, on as a substitute, struck his ninth career
goal against the Blues to earn a point for the Hammers. The Mexican's
effort, driven into the corner after Marko Arnautovic's fine cut-back, moves
David Moyes' team six points clear of the relegation places.
It was only West Ham's third touch inside the Chelsea's penalty area. In
contrast, Antonio Conte's men - who are in fifth but 10 points behind
Tottenham and Liverpool above them - had 23 shots on goal and were good
value for their lead for long periods. And but for a combination of
profligate finishing and excellent goalkeeping from West Ham keeper Joe Hart
- on loan from league leaders Manchester City - the Blues would have
realised that aim.
Moyes' horrendous record at Stamford Bridge looked well on course to stretch
to a ninth defeat in a 15-game winless run. The Scot has still not managed a
victory from 30 outings against a 'big six' side since a 2-1 win for Everton
over Manchester City in December 2010 - but Hernandez's strike altered the
complexion of the game while delivering a precious point. The 29-year-old,
whose future and relationship with his manager has been questioned, once
again showed his predatory instincts to turn the ball beyond Thibaut
Courtois three minutes after coming on. Hernandez has now appeared four
times as a substitute at Stamford Bridge in the league - and scored on all
four occasions. This was the former Manchester United forward's ninth in 14
appearances against Chelsea, more than he has managed against any other
Premier League opponent.
Stamford Bridge pays tribute to Wilkins
After an earlier a pre-match tribute, the stadium rose in the eighth minute
to acclaim their former number eight Wilkins. A midfielder of grace and
vision, Wilkins, who also worked as assistant manager at Chelsea, was
revered at Stamford Bridge and would have enjoyed the performance of Eden
Hazard, a player exemplifies those qualities in Conte's modern-day team.
With West Ham in stifling mode, the Belgium forward cut loose after 20
minutes. Exploiting the space behind Cheikhou Kouyate, Hazard fashioned a
series of chances for the Blues to wrap things up before the break. As his
influence grew, Morata also came alive. The Spaniard had two goals
disallowed for offside and Hazard was unfortunate to be denied a late winner
by Hart's excellent positioning.
Man of the match - Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
Eden Hazard was at his elusive best for Chelsea, creating several chances
for the hosts to score before half-time.
'We can see our season in this game' - what they said Chelsea manager
Antonio Conte: "I think with this game we can see our season. We can create
a lot of chances but we cannot take them. "We are not clinical and then we
concede two shots and concede a goal. "When you don't score but create the
chances it's very difficult to win. This game explains our season." On
forwards potentially lacking confidence: "Morata scored two offside goals.
He does not lack confidence and we created enough chances for Hazard,
Willian and Morata to score. But I repeat, this game explains our season."
West Ham manager David Moyes: "It certainly is a prized point for us. We
were playing against a team who are quality and have some terrific attacking
players who played well. "The key was that we were never out of it, because
the way they got the first goal was diabolical. Chelsea can get a goal in
other ways but from a corner was really bad from our point of view." On
substitute Javier Hernandez scoring the equaliser: "Chicharito won't thank
me for bringing him on as a substitute, but he's a great penalty box striker
and he always gets goals. "Every time you open up against Chelsea it's a bit
dangerous, but we defended well on the whole."
Chelsea failed to win a league game at home under Conte in which they led at
half-time for the first time - ending an 18-match run.
West Ham avoided defeat in an away Premier League game against the reigning
champions for only the third time. They beat Manchester United in 2001-02
and drew 2-2 at Chelsea in 2015-16.
All five of Azpilicueta's league goals in 191 Chelsea appearances have come
against teams beginning with W (two against Watford, two against West Brom
and now one against West Ham).
Morata's assist for Azpilicueta was the seventh time the two have combined
in the Premier League this season - no two players have combined for more
goals this campaign.
Moyes has not won any of his 20 away matches at Stamford Bridge as a manager
with five clubs (Preston, Everton, Manchester United, Sunderland and West
Ham), losing 13.
What's next?
Chelsea travel to the south coast to face struggling Southampton on Saturday
(12:30 BST kick-off). West Ham welcome relegation-threatened Stoke to London
Stadium on Monday, 16 April (20:00).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
#REFWATCH: KEVIN FRIEND - CHELSEA VS WEST HAM
AUTHOR: SAMTWHWREF. PUBLISHED: 8 APRIL 2018 AT 10:18PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by @SamRoyden
For the first time in a while, the football gods were looking down in West
Ham's favour as teams around the Hammers dropped points leaving West Ham
five points above Southampton in 18th. After a convincing win against
Southampton last week, a point at Chelsea would have sufficed and the team
didn't let us down. A hard fought 95 minutes, which saw West Ham keep Hazard
and Willian at bay and Joe Hart pulling off some great saves, putting West
Ham on 34 points with six games to go.
Kevin Friend was the man in charge for the last derby of the season in an up
and down Premier League for both sides. Thus far this season, Friend has
officiated only 16 Premier League games, which may have been a concern going
into a London Derby but Friend and his officiating team performed well and
were in control throughout.
During the first half, Friend wasn't called into action much but it was his
assistant referee who was in a great position to see a disallowed Álvaro
Morata goal after the Spanish forward was a foot or so beyond Declan Rice -
who has been brilliant in the last two games. Friend played advantage very
well during the first half and with the introduction of The Advantage Rule
of Law 5 into the game, it's been great for referees to review whether there
is an advantage to be played and keep the game flowing.
Both teams dialled up their intensity in the second half with West Ham
chasing an equaliser and Chelsea piling on the pressure to see the game out.
Kevin Friend was a busier man in the second half with a couple of big
decisions. Again, it was his assistant referee who was in the right place to
see Álvaro Morata beyond the last West Ham defender, only to see assistant
referee's flag raised in the air ruling out another goal,
Apart from an undisputed caution for Mark Noble for pulling Eden Hazard's
shirt, there was also a shout for a penalty after Kolo Kante challenged
Marko Arnautović inside the Chelsea penalty area. During the live incident,
my gut instinct said it was a penalty, potentially could have been my West
Ham bias thoughts, but after video replay did confirm it but the decision
was very, very difficult in my opinion, we're talking split second decisions
and the slightest of movement.
When I reviewed the first video replay I couldn't tell you whether it was a
penalty straight away, I couldn't make up my mind in that split second. Did
Kante's toes catch the ball ever so slightly? Did Arnautović touch the ball
to make it change direction? After the 4th or 5th replay and 45 seconds
later, I finally came to the decision that there was contact by Kante on
Arnautović right foot and not the ball, Kevin Friend has a less than a
second to make his mind up taking into consideration the only angle that he
had. The last touch did come from Arnautović with his right foot, it changed
the direction of the ball and should have been a penalty - but, I understand
why Kevin Friend didn't award the penalty.
It's clear from the replays that the change in direction of the ball was the
deciding factor in Kevin Friend's decision. What Friend didn't and couldn't
see with the naked eye was that Kolo Kante strikes the West Ham man's right
foot and not clean contact with the ball.
I thought Kevin Friend wasn't in the best position to make the decision, he
could have been a little closer to the incident but I do think that Gary
Cahill blocked his view when Kante tackled Arnautović. This may have
compromised his view and as a referee you have to be 100% confident that
it's a foul to award the penalty.
I do sympathise with Kevin Friend because taking all of the above into
consideration, it was an extremely difficult decision and as a referee, you
can only make a decision on what you can see - I would suggest that the
assistant referee would have had a better view but being side on, it would
have been as difficult as where Friend was positioned. The change direction
of direction of the ball came within the split second of Kolo Kante making
contact with Arnautović, and the illusion was that Kante clearly made
contact with the ball. Was this a clear and obvious error? That is
subjective and if VAR was enabled during the game I think it may have been
under review, as the only angle that would have given you a definitive
answer was a front view, which neither Assistant or Referee have the luxury
of having without VAR.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea 1-1 West Ham: Javier Hernandez earns David Moyes' side valuable
point
By Oliver Yew
Last Updated: 08/04/18 7:20pm
SSN
Javier Hernandez's second-half strike cancelled out Cesar Azpilicueta's
opener as West Ham secure a valuable point with a 1-1 draw against Chelsea
at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea, who paid heartfelt tribute to their late
captain Ray Wilkins before and during the game, dominated the opening 45
minutes and were deservedly ahead when Azpilicueta tapped home from close
range in the 36th minute. Antonio Conte's side's dominance continued after
the break but the second goal never came as West Ham stayed in the game, and
they were rewarded when substitute Hernandez (73) snatched a point for the
visitors. The draw sees David Moyes' side move six points clear of the
relegation zone, while Chelsea are 10 points behind Tottenham in the race
for fourth with six games remaining. On what was an emotional afternoon at
Stamford Bridge, Wilkins was remembered ahead of kick-off with a minute of
applause as a seat in the dugout was draped in his No 8 shirt. Wilkins' name
rang around the ground once again in the eighth minute with both sets of
fans singing the Chelsea legend's name.
After a quiet opening, Chelsea had the ball in the back of the net in the
25th minute but Alvaro Morata was correctly flagged for offside after being
played in by Eden Hazard.
Morata's flick then drifted wide of the far post after yet more good work
from Hazard before Willian fired inches wide from the edge of the penalty
area, and the Brazil international was in again in the 35th minute after yet
more sensational passing from Chelsea but Joe Hart raced off his line to
make a brilliant block.
Chelsea' dominance eventually told from the resultant corner and West Ham
switched off as Morata headed Victor Moses' cross back into the danger area
where Azpilicueta was there tap home from inside the six-yard box. Chelsea
went in search for a second after the break and Willian had an immediate
chance to double the hosts' advantage but his shot fizzed past the far post.
Conte's side thought they had their second when Morata swept home Willian's
cross, but again the offside flag was up to deny the Spain striker before
Moses curled wide of the upright.
They were punished midway through the second-half as Gary Cahill's poor
defensive header fell to Marko Arnautovic and his cut back picked out
Hernandez, who produced a sweet strike from just inside the area to beat
Thibaut Courtois. In a frantic final 10 minutes, Hart had to be at his best
to produce two saves to deny Marcos Alonso and Olivier Giroud, while West
Ham thought they should have had a penalty as N'Golo Kante's last-ditch
tackle sent Arnautovic to the floor, but referee Kevin Friend remained
unmoved.
Opta stats
Chelsea failed to win a Premier League game at Stamford Bridge under Conte
in which they led at half-time for the first time, having won all 18 of
their previous games under the Italian when ahead at the interval.
West Ham avoided defeat in an away Premier League game against the reigning
champions for only the third time, beating Man Utd in 2001-02 and drawing
2-2 with Chelsea in 2015-16.
Azpilicueta scored his fifth Premier League goal for Chelsea in his 191st
appearance - all five of his goals have been against sides beginning with W
(two against Watford, two against West Brom and one against West Ham).
Morata assisted Azpilicueta's goal, the seventh time the two have combined
in the Premier League this season - no two players have combined for more
goals this campaign.
Hernandez has scored four of his 16 Premier League goals as a substitute
against Chelsea - only one player in Premier League history has scored more
sub goals against an opponent, with Julian Joachim scoring five against
Derby County. This was the fourth time Hernandez has appeared as a
substitute at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League and the Mexican has
found the net in all four of those games (four goals).
Man of the Match - Joe Hart
Hart put in a reminder to England manager Gareth Southgate's with a fine
performance at Stamford Bridge, which included some world-class saves. In
the first-half, the 30-year-old was quickly off his line to make a smart
block to deny Willian before two saves in the final minutes helped the
Hammers to what could be a crucial point in their bid to stay in the Premier
League. The first saw him show excellent reactions in tipping Alonso's
powerful drive over the crossbar before quick feet allowed him to tip
Giroud's goal-bound header around the post.
England Watch
Gareth Southgate's assistant Steve Holland was in the stands to see Joe Hart
produce a man-of-the-match display. It was a timely return to form for the
30-year-old as the battle to become England's No. 1 heats up. It wasn't such
good news for Gary Cahill, who played the full 90 minutes at the heart of
Chelsea's back three. It was his poor defensive header which led to Javier
Hernandez's equaliser. Meanwhile, there was an injury blow for Aaron
Cresswell. The left-back had to leave the field in the 63rd minute after
landing awkwardly challenging for a high ball with Willian.
Slaven Bilic, who was watching the game for Sky Sports, said: "It was his
best game I think. He kept West Ham in the game because in the second half,
it looked more like Chelsea were going to score the second goal rather than
West Ham would equalise.
Jamie Redknapp agreed, saying: "He's probably given Gareth Southgate a
problem he didn't want to a certain extent becaue he is maybe looking at
Jack Butland or Jordan Pickford and all of a sudden, Joe Hart has come into
the equation. A nice problem, but one he might not have wanted."
What's next?
Chelsea are back in Premier League action next Saturday when they travel to
St Mary's to face Southampton, live on Sky Sports Premier League from
11.30am.
West Ham are also live on Sky Sports Premier League next weekend when they
host Stoke City at the London Stadium on Monday Night Football (April 16 -
from 7pm).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham striker Javier Hernandez one of the best finishers in the game,
says Jamie Redknapp
Last Updated: 08/04/18 8:20pm
SSN
Javier Hernandez is "one of the best finishers in the game" according to
Jamie Redknapp, after the West Ham striker sealed a point against Chelsea.
The Mexican scored three minutes after coming on as a substitute in the 1-1
draw, scoring with a great sweeping strike from just inside the area. It was
the fourth time Hernandez has appeared as a substitute at Stamford Bridge in
the Premier League, and having found the net in all four of those games,
Redknapp was full of praise for his ability to finish. "He does a great job
holding the ball up for his team, being aggressive and holding off Gary
Cahill. It's a good piece of play. He's one of the best finishers in the
game," he said. "He is up there with the best and it's a brilliant finish,
it's unstoppable. Great forwards seem to have that extra bit of time. "He's
almost stumbled across it but playing Marko Arnautovic as the striker has
really helped West Ham. He's more mobile, he gets hold of the ball, he can
do something with it and even the penalty appeal, that's him at his best.
"But when you have 70 minutes and you need someone to come on - an assassin,
a goalscorer - that's what Hernandez brings. He's one of the best in the
business."
Former West Ham manager Slaven Bilic joined Redknapp in the Super Sunday
studio and after signing Hernandez for the club before his departure, he
agreed with the Sky Sports pundit about the striker. "He's a natural
goalscorer and he's there where he has to be. He's not dangerous outside the
box or around the box, but in the box, he's the best finisher. Everything he
thinks about is being in the box to come for a second ball," Bilic said. "He
had some difficult times in the beginning. I don't think he did all of
pre-season because of the Confederations Cup but he is a brilliant
goalscorer. "He's a brilliant guy, a good person to have in the dressing
room. He doesn't cause problems, he can be angry but for five or ten
minutes, no more than that. He is a good guy."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joe Hart needed big game to boost England chances, says David Moyes
By Oliver Yew
Last Updated: 08/04/18 8:26pm
SSN
West Ham boss David Moyes was full of praise for goalkeeper Joe Hart after
his man-of-the-match performance helped earn a 1-1 draw at Chelsea on
Sunday.
Hart, whose England World Cup spot is in jeopardy following his struggles
this season, kept Chelsea at bay with a string of fine saves as the Hammers
held on for another point to put towards their survival bid. Moyes insists
Hart's showing was a timely reminder to Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate,
who has until May 14 to give England's 35-man provisional squad to FIFA
before whittling it down to 23 by June 4.
When asked about Hart's England chances, Moyes told Sky Sports: "I think Joe
probably needed a game like that. "Joe showed today why he has so many caps
and so many medals, so that will be good for him. "When you do play the big
teams you need your goalkeeper to play well and our goalkeeper played very
well."
Substitute Javier Hernandez had only been on the field for three minutes
when he swept home the equaliser to cancel out Cesar Azpilicueta's
first-half opener, and Moyes was not surprised by the Mexican striker's
impact off the bench. "Everybody knows what Chicharito is capable of," the
Scot said. "He's a great penalty box striker, he's someone that finds
himself in space or gets in space in the box and he's had a great career
scoring goals in the box. "I think a lot of credit has to go to Mark Noble,
who plays a great ball in behind and Marko keeps the ball alive and pulls it
back, but it's a great finish by Chicho."
The point sees West Ham reach 34 points, six above Southampton who occupy
the final place in the relegation zone with six games to play. However,
Moyes insists he will not be happy until his side reach the 40-point mark.
He added: "With the teams we've got to play between now and the end of the
season, taking a point from any of the big teams is a good result. "I've
always said 40 (points) so until we get that then we won't be happy. It may
not end up needing as much as that but until you get that you can't feel as
though you are completely safe. "Our position is not comfortable enough yet.
From where we are I want to try and push us on."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, April 7
Daily WHUFC News - 8th April 2018
Chelsea v West Ham United: All you need to know
WHUFC.com
It's a London derby for the Hammers this Sunday as they make the short trip across town to take on the 2016/17 Premier League champions Chelsea. West Ham head into the game buoyed by last weekend's comprehensive victory against Southampton and will be hoping to complete a league double against the Blues.
Where and when?
Chelsea v West Ham United
Premier League
Sunday 8 April 2018, 4.30pm BST
Stamford Bridge
How to follow:
This match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and Main Event. If you are tuning in from overseas, click here for TV coverage details in your territory.
Live match updates will be provided through the official West Ham Twitter account.
You can also follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com.
You can also follow the match on our official Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat channels.
Live audio commentary will be available on whufc.com, the Club's Official Mobile App and BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio London 94.9FM.
Team news:
Chicharito returns to the Hammers squad after missing the Southampton victory with illness, but Manuel Lanzini remains a doubt with the knee injury he sustained while on international duty with Argentina.
Michail Antonio will undergo surgery and miss the rest of the season after suffering a hamstring tear against the Saints, while Andy Carroll, Sam Byram, Winston Reid and Pedro Obiang are all also out.
James Collins will return to full training next week following his hamstring injury and should be available to face Stoke City on 16 April.
For Chelsea, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and forward Pedro both missed their London derby defeat to Tottenham but could return for this match.
David Luiz, Davide Zappacosta and Ethan Ampadu are all absent with injuries.
What they say: I hope lightning can strike twice and we can beat Chelsea again. I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with some excellent players. David Moyes
Match Officials:
Referee: Kevin Friend
Assistant Referees: Harry Lennard & Matthew Wilkes
Fourth Official: Neil Swarbrick
How to get there:
Fulham Broadway station on the District Line is within walking distance of Stamford Bridge.
By Train
Fans are advised not to drive to Stamford Bridge due to resident parking restrictions in the area around the stadium, especially on matchdays.
By Car
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ray: 'We have more games to win and more history to make'
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies general manager Karen Ray has called on her side to put aside Wednesday's Women's Cup final win as they prepare for QPR this Sunday. The Ladies claimed an incredible comeback victory over Charlton Athletic Women this week to lift the Goodmove.co.uk Women's Cup, but have not have long to allow the win to settle win, with a return to league action against QPR Ladies this weekend. Ray is eager for her team to fondly recall the memories of Wednesday's result but is looking for the Ladies to be fully focused on this Sunday's contest. "My message to the girls will be that, of course I want them to cherish the memories of this week's victory, but we can't settle there," Ray told whufc.com: "We have more games to win and more history to make. Consistency and persistence will be required but we have that in abundance.
"We will have our pregame meeting where we look at areas of QPR's game that we need to nullify and exploit. Cav and Jackson will then take the girls for a session in the gym to get the blood flowing into their muscles to aid in the players speed of recovery. The best discussions for a team happen when the coach isn't in the room so it's a great chance for them to talk as a group."
Speaking for the first time since the Ladies won Wednesday's final, thanks to goals from Andria Georgiou and Molly Clark, Ray was eager to express her delight at the team's performance in the final. She continued: "This team is a family and I am delighted for everyone associated with this Club. We made history. Tonight we fought for each other, we were determined and resilient in all areas of the pitch. What else can I ask for?
"Winning is developed in the most difficult moments and being 1-0 down against a team tipped to win our league certainly isn't easy. We proved a lot of people wrong tonight and the girls deserve more respect for their achievements. "I have to say that both goals were wonderful and demonstrated how dangerous we can be from any area in the final third. Dre and Molly have proven to be great additions to the environment and I am enjoying working with them as they play in my position! Credit has to go to Ellie Zoepfl who was phenomenal tonight, she terrorised their defenders with her speed and tenacity. The game standout for me. "We showed that our winning mentality isn't limited, we can not only outplay strong teams like Charlton, we can beat them. That's something to hold on to as we head into Sunday's match."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Betway Insider's View of the Opposition: Chelsea
WHUFC.com
West Ham have not won at Stamford Bridge since September 2002. But, much like Tottenham discovered last weekend, now is the perfect time to end such hoodoos against the Blues. Chelsea's hopes of finishing in the top four now look forlorn, having won just three of 10 league games in 2018 and lost five of their last seven. They've only kept a single clean sheet during that run – against rock-bottom West Brom, who are also the league's joint-lowest scorers. So the Hammers, who took a huge stride towards safety with a thumping 3-0 win over Southampton last time out, should fancy their chances of claiming at least a point, particularly considering that they have scored in eight consecutive Premier League away games. If they are to find the net, then one player stands out as the most likely candidate. Marko Arnautovic got his first goal for West Ham in the reverse fixture back in December, beginning a run of nine in 13 league games. Having returned to form with a brace against the Saints – and with Michail Antonio ruled out for the rest of the season with a hamstring injury – he is sure to lead the line and find himself on the end of most chances the visitors create. Whatever the score, this is a derby that always proves to be feisty.
A total of seven bookings when these two sides played each other at the London Stadium means there have now been 43 yellows and one red in their last eight meetings. Over 5.5 on Sunday, then, shouldn't be too much to ask.
Recommended bets
West Ham double chance and BTTS – 19/4
Marko Arnautovic to score – 16/5
Over 5.5 cards – 11/8
Back this #BetYourWay at 25/1
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea v West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 7th April 2018
By: Preview Percy
Q: What connects a missing bass player, Father Dougal Maguire and Neil "Colin" Warnock? A: They all appear in Preview Percy's look at this weekend's visit to Chelsea. If you look hard enough there may be some stuff in there about Chelsea as well. But we wouldn't bank on it....
Next we face Chelsea away. For some odd reason kick-off is at 4:30pm. Usual stuff going on on trains into Liverpool Street if you're not making the journey on one of the boats that will be doing the trip. Tubes in and around the area are ok though. Well as ok as they get I suppose. Check before you leave. As ever.
Before I get on with the usual stuff one ought to pay one's respects with regards to the untimely demise of the late Ray Wilkins who passed away during the week. It seems that the chap was pretty much universally liked in the world of football though it was for one of his unguarded moments for which he will be remembered in these parts as an effects mic picked up his instruction to "give us the ****ing ball" barked at an unfortunate ball boy whilst on international duty. Tellingly it was a tale that made him smile as much as we all did whenever it was raised with him in conversation. No doubt the chap will be honoured in some manner or other at the match on Sunday. Have some respect if you're going.
So there they are in 5th spot with 56 points from the 31 played so far. That's 8 points behind Spurs to whom they went down 3-1 at home last weekend. That defeat means that they will almost certainly be vying with Arsenal for the coveted 5th spot for Thursday Night League qualification. They could, of course, also qualify for the same competition (otherwise known as "the having to play a lot of games on a Sunday League") through the FA Cup, where they have been drawn against Southampton in the semi-finals. Or "given a bye to the final" as it is otherwise known. As usual there are probably other permutations based on the league position of whoever wins the Cup but since the work-experience kid of as yet to be determined gender wearing a hoodie who seems only able to communicate with some strange grunting noises is using his or her laptop to keep track on Chelsea's loan stock we won't have enough computer memory to go through the possibilities for a few weeks.
They are, for the time being, managed by Antonio Conte who is in the odd position of having a year left on his contract but being less likely to be in position in 2 month's time than an opponent with only two months left on his contract. The spoils of the Aluminium Wars mean that they can throw money around during the window if they feel like it. Thus it was that they spent a combined total of £50m in January in an attempt to boost their so-called Champions League chances. As things stand it seems that the money has not been particularly well-spent.
£15m of that wedge went on Ross Barkley. Apparently. Since his arrival he's made just the three appearances, that tally being comprised of one each in the League, Cup and League Cup. His transfer prompted the mayor of Liverpool to whine to the police about suspected fraud. Plod looked at it for all of 5 minutes before deciding that they had better things to do, though it appears that arresting the mayor for wasting police time wasn't among them. Lovers of irony will, of course, be feasting on the concept of someone from Liverpool complaining about possible transfer fraud.
£17m give or take was enough to prise Emerson out of Roma. The midfielder is actually Brazilian by birth but, having got some Italian in the family he acquired Italian citizenship last year and is now on the fringes of selection for the Azzuri. So he has got the summer off then. The best thing about the player has got to be his name which the work experience kid of as yet to be determined gender wearing a hoodie who seems only able to communicate with some strange grunting noises assures me is Emerson Palmeri Dos Santos. You can't help but feeling that his parents ought to have thrown in a "Lago" in between the Emerson and the Palmeri just to complete the trio.
Olivier Giroud was the third arrival of the January window having been part of the "Will he wont he" conversations that dominated both players and manager at the library. He ha netted just the once in 9 league and cup matches since his arrival. Another test for our "sequence-buster" reputation then.
On the injury front there may be a return for Thibaut Courtois between the posts. He's been out for a while with a hamstring problem. If he's still not quite there Wally Caballero will continue in his stead. An extra test then in the unlikely event that the ref is brave enough to award us a penalty against a team owned by a Russian who is on Putin's favoured list.
They will be missing Sideshow Bob aka David Luiz. There were rumblings of a contretemps between Luiz and Conte at the turn of the year and it looked as if he might be on his way. However, he stayed put only to damage his ankle ligaments so we will never know if he would have been picked or not.
Elsewhere in the wild and whacky world of Association Football it was noted that supporters of Liverpool – in an apparently organised event – smashed up the Manchester City coach in the lead up to the so-called Champions League match the other night. Or, as the national press would have you believe "created a great atmosphere". The forthcoming fine from UEFA will be the fourth in two years that this odious club will have received for the actions of its supporters.
Maybe if the journos in our national press could stop crawling up their backsides for a minute and start reporting things as they are on Merseyside it might help matters somewhat. In the meantime, if I were one of those people described as a hooligan in the aftermath of the similar incident that occurred on the last night of the Boleyn a couple of years back I would seriously think of suing for libel on the grounds that I had just been creating a great atmosphere by lobbing a bottle at the Man Utd team.
Incidentally thanks to all who forwarded the "I haven't seen a scouser getting that excited over one leg since McCartney met Heather Mills" text over the last few days. Amusing though it is you can stop sending it now thanks.
And we had more Irony on Friday night as Neil Warnock accused Wolves manager Nuno Espirito of a lack of class after their match. Yes I did get that the right way round!
Meanwhile Accrington Stanley have been warned about their owner's habit of treating his players to a McDonalds when they win. Rumours that Lampard Junior might come out of retirement are, of course, scurrilous in the extreme.
And so (and for a change not reluctantly) we move to us. Now, yes, Southampton showed all the gumption of Donald Trump trying to tie his own shoelaces in presenting us with one of the worst visiting performances for a long time and, yes, I've seen more backbone in an earthworm but to focus on the shortcomings of our opponents for once does the team a real disservice.
I said, nay hoped, last week that the protests might act as a kick up the posterior of the team. Whether that was the case only the players will know but, whatever the reason they were most definitely up for it right from the start. Noticeably so. Sharp to the tackle and harrying at every point it was a total contrast to the fare we had been served up in recent weeks, much, no doubt to the relief of them in power who, as a result, didn't have to run the gauntlet of supporters "creating a great atmosphere" as the supporters were busy creating a great atmosphere.
Minor gripes? Well Antonio's hamstring was a bit of a downer and the fact that we declared at half time rather than really going for broke was also a tad disappointing from a goal difference point of view (though there is an element of churl in that comment given how good we were in the first half). But overall it was much, much better. Fernandes did well in replacing Antonio and that was young Rice's best performance in the shirt – in a week that followed his full Irish debut.
So let's have a look at the injury list then:
1) Andy Carroll (foot). Still looking at Arsenal away for his potential return.
2)James Collins (hamstring). Improved but rated 50-50 for this one.
3) Manual Lanzini (knee). Rated 50-50 but that's what they said last week.
4) Javier Hernandez (ill) Much better now and will be available for selection.
5) Michael Antonio (hamstring). Looks like he is out for the season. No wonder he was in tears on Saturday.
6)Sam Byram Out for the season.
7) Winston Reid Out for the season.
8) Pedro Obiang Out for the season.
So it's time for a prediction then. Well they will be on a bit of a downer having seen their chance of qualifying for the so-called Champions League go up the swannee at home to Spurs last weekend. So it's probably not a bad time to be playing them. However, this is another ground where the home side traditionally gets a helping hand from the officials. There's also the fact that we rarely string together two decent performances in a row at present.
The team is capable of proving me wrong so I will err on the side of pessimism in the hope that they will do just that. So the £2.50 I was going to put towards a dictionary to give to Warnock so he can look up the word "class" will this week be wagered at Winstones The Turf Accountants on a 2-1 home win.
Enjoy the game!
When Last We Met At Their Place: Lost 2-1 (Premier League August 2016)
A Hazard penalty gave them the lead early on. Collins's equaliser looked to have gained an unlikely point with 13 minutes to play only for Costa – who shouldn't have been on the pitch following a string of red and yellow card offences when already on a yellow – to net late on. Ref Taylor's inaction against the since-departed Costa went unpunished whilst PGMOL wonder why none of their membership will be in Russia this year.
Referee: Kevin Friend
Ironically-named official who wanders around with all the air of Father Dougal Maguire without quite ever having the same sense of reliability.
Danger Man: Edin Hazard
The combination of skill and unsteadiness often proves to be our downfall.
Percy's Poser:
Last time out we asked why people were likely to have more cause for complaint and refund than usual against the local bus company in Southampton. Congratulations to Mrs Annabel Above-Bar who was first out of the digital hat with the following response: "As if waiting an age for a bus that looks and sounds like it was made in the 1970's wasn't bad enough, some passengers found themselves being "serenaded" by someone called Craig David whose tuneless whimperings were briefly popular in the hit parade on the wireless a few years ago. David it seems has a new wax cylinder or somesuch to promote so he thought it a good idea to board an omnibus and strum his guitar at the occupants, who, in true bus driver stylie, were refused the opportunity to escape because the bus wasn't parked up at a proper stop. It is thought that the resulting compensation claims are likely to bankrupt the bus company. Well done Annabel!
For this week we give you the following list of clubs: Partizan, Woking, Vitesse. Swansea, Huddersfield, Groeningen, Rostov, Forest Green, Hull, Crystal Palace, PSV Eindhoven, Barnsley, Charlton Stoke, Chelsea, Chippenham Town, Birmingham City and Stevenage.
And our question is simply: Which is the odd one out? Answer next week!
Good luck everyone!
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be attributed to, KUMB.com.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
It's a London derby for the Hammers this Sunday as they make the short trip across town to take on the 2016/17 Premier League champions Chelsea. West Ham head into the game buoyed by last weekend's comprehensive victory against Southampton and will be hoping to complete a league double against the Blues.
Where and when?
Chelsea v West Ham United
Premier League
Sunday 8 April 2018, 4.30pm BST
Stamford Bridge
How to follow:
This match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and Main Event. If you are tuning in from overseas, click here for TV coverage details in your territory.
Live match updates will be provided through the official West Ham Twitter account.
You can also follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com.
You can also follow the match on our official Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat channels.
Live audio commentary will be available on whufc.com, the Club's Official Mobile App and BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio London 94.9FM.
Team news:
Chicharito returns to the Hammers squad after missing the Southampton victory with illness, but Manuel Lanzini remains a doubt with the knee injury he sustained while on international duty with Argentina.
Michail Antonio will undergo surgery and miss the rest of the season after suffering a hamstring tear against the Saints, while Andy Carroll, Sam Byram, Winston Reid and Pedro Obiang are all also out.
James Collins will return to full training next week following his hamstring injury and should be available to face Stoke City on 16 April.
For Chelsea, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and forward Pedro both missed their London derby defeat to Tottenham but could return for this match.
David Luiz, Davide Zappacosta and Ethan Ampadu are all absent with injuries.
What they say: I hope lightning can strike twice and we can beat Chelsea again. I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with some excellent players. David Moyes
Match Officials:
Referee: Kevin Friend
Assistant Referees: Harry Lennard & Matthew Wilkes
Fourth Official: Neil Swarbrick
How to get there:
Fulham Broadway station on the District Line is within walking distance of Stamford Bridge.
By Train
Fans are advised not to drive to Stamford Bridge due to resident parking restrictions in the area around the stadium, especially on matchdays.
By Car
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ray: 'We have more games to win and more history to make'
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies general manager Karen Ray has called on her side to put aside Wednesday's Women's Cup final win as they prepare for QPR this Sunday. The Ladies claimed an incredible comeback victory over Charlton Athletic Women this week to lift the Goodmove.co.uk Women's Cup, but have not have long to allow the win to settle win, with a return to league action against QPR Ladies this weekend. Ray is eager for her team to fondly recall the memories of Wednesday's result but is looking for the Ladies to be fully focused on this Sunday's contest. "My message to the girls will be that, of course I want them to cherish the memories of this week's victory, but we can't settle there," Ray told whufc.com: "We have more games to win and more history to make. Consistency and persistence will be required but we have that in abundance.
"We will have our pregame meeting where we look at areas of QPR's game that we need to nullify and exploit. Cav and Jackson will then take the girls for a session in the gym to get the blood flowing into their muscles to aid in the players speed of recovery. The best discussions for a team happen when the coach isn't in the room so it's a great chance for them to talk as a group."
Speaking for the first time since the Ladies won Wednesday's final, thanks to goals from Andria Georgiou and Molly Clark, Ray was eager to express her delight at the team's performance in the final. She continued: "This team is a family and I am delighted for everyone associated with this Club. We made history. Tonight we fought for each other, we were determined and resilient in all areas of the pitch. What else can I ask for?
"Winning is developed in the most difficult moments and being 1-0 down against a team tipped to win our league certainly isn't easy. We proved a lot of people wrong tonight and the girls deserve more respect for their achievements. "I have to say that both goals were wonderful and demonstrated how dangerous we can be from any area in the final third. Dre and Molly have proven to be great additions to the environment and I am enjoying working with them as they play in my position! Credit has to go to Ellie Zoepfl who was phenomenal tonight, she terrorised their defenders with her speed and tenacity. The game standout for me. "We showed that our winning mentality isn't limited, we can not only outplay strong teams like Charlton, we can beat them. That's something to hold on to as we head into Sunday's match."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Betway Insider's View of the Opposition: Chelsea
WHUFC.com
West Ham have not won at Stamford Bridge since September 2002. But, much like Tottenham discovered last weekend, now is the perfect time to end such hoodoos against the Blues. Chelsea's hopes of finishing in the top four now look forlorn, having won just three of 10 league games in 2018 and lost five of their last seven. They've only kept a single clean sheet during that run – against rock-bottom West Brom, who are also the league's joint-lowest scorers. So the Hammers, who took a huge stride towards safety with a thumping 3-0 win over Southampton last time out, should fancy their chances of claiming at least a point, particularly considering that they have scored in eight consecutive Premier League away games. If they are to find the net, then one player stands out as the most likely candidate. Marko Arnautovic got his first goal for West Ham in the reverse fixture back in December, beginning a run of nine in 13 league games. Having returned to form with a brace against the Saints – and with Michail Antonio ruled out for the rest of the season with a hamstring injury – he is sure to lead the line and find himself on the end of most chances the visitors create. Whatever the score, this is a derby that always proves to be feisty.
A total of seven bookings when these two sides played each other at the London Stadium means there have now been 43 yellows and one red in their last eight meetings. Over 5.5 on Sunday, then, shouldn't be too much to ask.
Recommended bets
West Ham double chance and BTTS – 19/4
Marko Arnautovic to score – 16/5
Over 5.5 cards – 11/8
Back this #BetYourWay at 25/1
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Chelsea v West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 7th April 2018
By: Preview Percy
Q: What connects a missing bass player, Father Dougal Maguire and Neil "Colin" Warnock? A: They all appear in Preview Percy's look at this weekend's visit to Chelsea. If you look hard enough there may be some stuff in there about Chelsea as well. But we wouldn't bank on it....
Next we face Chelsea away. For some odd reason kick-off is at 4:30pm. Usual stuff going on on trains into Liverpool Street if you're not making the journey on one of the boats that will be doing the trip. Tubes in and around the area are ok though. Well as ok as they get I suppose. Check before you leave. As ever.
Before I get on with the usual stuff one ought to pay one's respects with regards to the untimely demise of the late Ray Wilkins who passed away during the week. It seems that the chap was pretty much universally liked in the world of football though it was for one of his unguarded moments for which he will be remembered in these parts as an effects mic picked up his instruction to "give us the ****ing ball" barked at an unfortunate ball boy whilst on international duty. Tellingly it was a tale that made him smile as much as we all did whenever it was raised with him in conversation. No doubt the chap will be honoured in some manner or other at the match on Sunday. Have some respect if you're going.
So there they are in 5th spot with 56 points from the 31 played so far. That's 8 points behind Spurs to whom they went down 3-1 at home last weekend. That defeat means that they will almost certainly be vying with Arsenal for the coveted 5th spot for Thursday Night League qualification. They could, of course, also qualify for the same competition (otherwise known as "the having to play a lot of games on a Sunday League") through the FA Cup, where they have been drawn against Southampton in the semi-finals. Or "given a bye to the final" as it is otherwise known. As usual there are probably other permutations based on the league position of whoever wins the Cup but since the work-experience kid of as yet to be determined gender wearing a hoodie who seems only able to communicate with some strange grunting noises is using his or her laptop to keep track on Chelsea's loan stock we won't have enough computer memory to go through the possibilities for a few weeks.
They are, for the time being, managed by Antonio Conte who is in the odd position of having a year left on his contract but being less likely to be in position in 2 month's time than an opponent with only two months left on his contract. The spoils of the Aluminium Wars mean that they can throw money around during the window if they feel like it. Thus it was that they spent a combined total of £50m in January in an attempt to boost their so-called Champions League chances. As things stand it seems that the money has not been particularly well-spent.
£15m of that wedge went on Ross Barkley. Apparently. Since his arrival he's made just the three appearances, that tally being comprised of one each in the League, Cup and League Cup. His transfer prompted the mayor of Liverpool to whine to the police about suspected fraud. Plod looked at it for all of 5 minutes before deciding that they had better things to do, though it appears that arresting the mayor for wasting police time wasn't among them. Lovers of irony will, of course, be feasting on the concept of someone from Liverpool complaining about possible transfer fraud.
£17m give or take was enough to prise Emerson out of Roma. The midfielder is actually Brazilian by birth but, having got some Italian in the family he acquired Italian citizenship last year and is now on the fringes of selection for the Azzuri. So he has got the summer off then. The best thing about the player has got to be his name which the work experience kid of as yet to be determined gender wearing a hoodie who seems only able to communicate with some strange grunting noises assures me is Emerson Palmeri Dos Santos. You can't help but feeling that his parents ought to have thrown in a "Lago" in between the Emerson and the Palmeri just to complete the trio.
Olivier Giroud was the third arrival of the January window having been part of the "Will he wont he" conversations that dominated both players and manager at the library. He ha netted just the once in 9 league and cup matches since his arrival. Another test for our "sequence-buster" reputation then.
On the injury front there may be a return for Thibaut Courtois between the posts. He's been out for a while with a hamstring problem. If he's still not quite there Wally Caballero will continue in his stead. An extra test then in the unlikely event that the ref is brave enough to award us a penalty against a team owned by a Russian who is on Putin's favoured list.
They will be missing Sideshow Bob aka David Luiz. There were rumblings of a contretemps between Luiz and Conte at the turn of the year and it looked as if he might be on his way. However, he stayed put only to damage his ankle ligaments so we will never know if he would have been picked or not.
Elsewhere in the wild and whacky world of Association Football it was noted that supporters of Liverpool – in an apparently organised event – smashed up the Manchester City coach in the lead up to the so-called Champions League match the other night. Or, as the national press would have you believe "created a great atmosphere". The forthcoming fine from UEFA will be the fourth in two years that this odious club will have received for the actions of its supporters.
Maybe if the journos in our national press could stop crawling up their backsides for a minute and start reporting things as they are on Merseyside it might help matters somewhat. In the meantime, if I were one of those people described as a hooligan in the aftermath of the similar incident that occurred on the last night of the Boleyn a couple of years back I would seriously think of suing for libel on the grounds that I had just been creating a great atmosphere by lobbing a bottle at the Man Utd team.
Incidentally thanks to all who forwarded the "I haven't seen a scouser getting that excited over one leg since McCartney met Heather Mills" text over the last few days. Amusing though it is you can stop sending it now thanks.
And we had more Irony on Friday night as Neil Warnock accused Wolves manager Nuno Espirito of a lack of class after their match. Yes I did get that the right way round!
Meanwhile Accrington Stanley have been warned about their owner's habit of treating his players to a McDonalds when they win. Rumours that Lampard Junior might come out of retirement are, of course, scurrilous in the extreme.
And so (and for a change not reluctantly) we move to us. Now, yes, Southampton showed all the gumption of Donald Trump trying to tie his own shoelaces in presenting us with one of the worst visiting performances for a long time and, yes, I've seen more backbone in an earthworm but to focus on the shortcomings of our opponents for once does the team a real disservice.
I said, nay hoped, last week that the protests might act as a kick up the posterior of the team. Whether that was the case only the players will know but, whatever the reason they were most definitely up for it right from the start. Noticeably so. Sharp to the tackle and harrying at every point it was a total contrast to the fare we had been served up in recent weeks, much, no doubt to the relief of them in power who, as a result, didn't have to run the gauntlet of supporters "creating a great atmosphere" as the supporters were busy creating a great atmosphere.
Minor gripes? Well Antonio's hamstring was a bit of a downer and the fact that we declared at half time rather than really going for broke was also a tad disappointing from a goal difference point of view (though there is an element of churl in that comment given how good we were in the first half). But overall it was much, much better. Fernandes did well in replacing Antonio and that was young Rice's best performance in the shirt – in a week that followed his full Irish debut.
So let's have a look at the injury list then:
1) Andy Carroll (foot). Still looking at Arsenal away for his potential return.
2)James Collins (hamstring). Improved but rated 50-50 for this one.
3) Manual Lanzini (knee). Rated 50-50 but that's what they said last week.
4) Javier Hernandez (ill) Much better now and will be available for selection.
5) Michael Antonio (hamstring). Looks like he is out for the season. No wonder he was in tears on Saturday.
6)Sam Byram Out for the season.
7) Winston Reid Out for the season.
8) Pedro Obiang Out for the season.
So it's time for a prediction then. Well they will be on a bit of a downer having seen their chance of qualifying for the so-called Champions League go up the swannee at home to Spurs last weekend. So it's probably not a bad time to be playing them. However, this is another ground where the home side traditionally gets a helping hand from the officials. There's also the fact that we rarely string together two decent performances in a row at present.
The team is capable of proving me wrong so I will err on the side of pessimism in the hope that they will do just that. So the £2.50 I was going to put towards a dictionary to give to Warnock so he can look up the word "class" will this week be wagered at Winstones The Turf Accountants on a 2-1 home win.
Enjoy the game!
When Last We Met At Their Place: Lost 2-1 (Premier League August 2016)
A Hazard penalty gave them the lead early on. Collins's equaliser looked to have gained an unlikely point with 13 minutes to play only for Costa – who shouldn't have been on the pitch following a string of red and yellow card offences when already on a yellow – to net late on. Ref Taylor's inaction against the since-departed Costa went unpunished whilst PGMOL wonder why none of their membership will be in Russia this year.
Referee: Kevin Friend
Ironically-named official who wanders around with all the air of Father Dougal Maguire without quite ever having the same sense of reliability.
Danger Man: Edin Hazard
The combination of skill and unsteadiness often proves to be our downfall.
Percy's Poser:
Last time out we asked why people were likely to have more cause for complaint and refund than usual against the local bus company in Southampton. Congratulations to Mrs Annabel Above-Bar who was first out of the digital hat with the following response: "As if waiting an age for a bus that looks and sounds like it was made in the 1970's wasn't bad enough, some passengers found themselves being "serenaded" by someone called Craig David whose tuneless whimperings were briefly popular in the hit parade on the wireless a few years ago. David it seems has a new wax cylinder or somesuch to promote so he thought it a good idea to board an omnibus and strum his guitar at the occupants, who, in true bus driver stylie, were refused the opportunity to escape because the bus wasn't parked up at a proper stop. It is thought that the resulting compensation claims are likely to bankrupt the bus company. Well done Annabel!
For this week we give you the following list of clubs: Partizan, Woking, Vitesse. Swansea, Huddersfield, Groeningen, Rostov, Forest Green, Hull, Crystal Palace, PSV Eindhoven, Barnsley, Charlton Stoke, Chelsea, Chippenham Town, Birmingham City and Stevenage.
And our question is simply: Which is the odd one out? Answer next week!
Good luck everyone!
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be attributed to, KUMB.com.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Daily WHUFC News - 7th April 2018
Arnautovic: We must believe we can beat Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Marko Arnautovic has already done plenty to help West Ham United's quest to
preserve Premier League status. But the in-form centre forward's work is far
from done and the Hammers' battle for survival is far from over. The
Austrian has scored nine goals and assisted three more in his last 13
Premier League appearances. The first of those goals came in a 1-0 home win
over Chelsea in early December, and Arnautovic will take aim at the Blues
again in Sunday's reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge. "We are not safe yet
but since I scored my first goal against Chelsea my season started to be
great and I have tried to do everything to help the team and of course to
score some goals, that's the most important thing," observed the No7, who
scored two in a 3-0 victory over Southampton last time out.
"First of all [our aim is] to get a clean sheet and then it's up to us up
front to score goals and in some games we did it and some games we didn't,
but I'm not very happy where we are now. "After this win [over Southampton]
we are comfortable but we are not safe and I haven't yet saved West Ham, but
I will try to save us of course."
When West Ham welcomed Chelsea to London Stadium four months ago, Antonio
Conte's men had won six out of seven in the Premier League, while the
Hammers were yet to win under David Moyes and had lost five out of their own
previous seven top-flight matches. The odds were stacked against the hosts
but, thanks in large part to Arnautovic, they overcame them to secure a
landmark victory. The striker is eyeing a repeat performance on Sunday. "It
was a hard game at the time. Chelsea were in a good run when we beat them
but I think we did a good job all over the part of the pitch and that's why
I think we won the game, because we believed and we worked hard and we need
to do that again too. "It's never going to be an easy game as Chelsea is a
top side and we know there are world-class football players in this team,
but we are going there to try and take something out of this game and in the
Premier League you never know. You can win lots of games then you can lose a
lot of games. "Everybody is of course feeling that Chelsea are going to beat
us but we are going to try to take something out of the game, but it won't
be easy and we're aware of that."
Arnautovic's form and confidence have clearly taken a massive upturn since
that win over Chelsea, and since Moyes' appointment as manager. From the
very start, the Scot has publicly called on the talented forward to put in
the effort to enable him to get the most out of his ability. Arnautovic has
responded and is now reaping the considerable rewards. "The manager said
'You need to work hard and run hard otherwise you won't play' and, when he
said this to me, I was aware of that. "I'm a player who always wants to play
and I think I did the job that he wanted from me, but it's not over now. We
still have seven games and it's going to be hard and difficult as we still
have some top teams coming to us and we have to go to Chelsea and Arsenal so
it's not over. "We have to work hard, run hard, stay compact, stay as a team
and then when we believe in ourselves then we can win games."
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Moyes: 40 points, Arnautovic, Chelsea and the importance of home support
WHUFC.com
David Moyes was in positive mood as he sat down to talk to the media ahead
of Sunday's Premier League trip to Chelsea. The West Ham United manager was
asked how many points his team need to secure their safety, about Marko
Arnautovic's contribution, Chelsea's form and the importance of having four
home matches still to play.
Here is what he had to say…
Beating Southampton only got us three points and at the moment we're not
safe yet, so what I think it got us was three really important points, but
we're keeping our focus as we've not got enough points to be safe yet. We
have to pick up more. The next game is Chelsea and we need to try and do
something more against them and try to pick up some points against them. It
was a really big victory for us against Southampton, for the team, for the
Club, and I think for everybody it gave us all a boost. More importantly, it
was the type of performance we gave as well. It was an emphatic performance
in the first half which got us the goals and we went on and it gave us the
chance to go on and win the game quite well. I'm always basing myself on the
fact that 40 points is roughly where you need to get to. It's really
difficult to work out what the points tally will be this year, but hopefully
it won't take as much as that, but if I am thinking it's going to take 40
for me, it is a long way to go for the teams below us as well, if that's the
case. We need our minds focused on winning and picking up another seven or
eight points if we can between now and the end of the season.
Marko has been a big team player for us
Marko Arnautovic has become an important player for us, but I don't
necessarily think that down to anything I've done, but rather that Marko has
done. I think he's always had the ability, as people will tell you who
watched Stoke City for years and his career before that as well, which is
why he was at so many big clubs. We've just given him a licence to go and
show what he can do, but also with the instructions that he has got to be a
big team player as well and he has done that. He has shown individual
qualities with his goalscoring and his finishing but, when we've needed him
to work for the team and do the jobs required, he's been good at it and he's
helped us. He's a really important member of the team just now and he'll
feel good about that because he's the sort of player who needs that status.
Can lightning strike twice? I hope so!
We're playing the current Premier League champions on Sunday and I really
hope West Ham can pick up the points and move up the league. We beat Chelsea
at home in December and I hope lightning can strike twice and we can do it
again. I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with
some excellent players and, up until Manchester City win the league, they
are the champions. We'll go there and give them great respect but obviously
go there with a game-plan to get a result and bring some points back here to
West Ham. Chelsea might not win the title this season but, as a top club,
they have to win all their games. It's part of their job, they have to win,
so don't think for a minute that they will switch off. They won't. We have
to hope we catch them on an off-day and we perform well, like we did in our
home game against them. If we can do that again, I hope we can give them a
really good game.
The London Stadium crowd can inspire us to safety
Psychologically, it's massively important to be in control of our own
destiny because we want to be the ones winning our own games and not being
reliant on other results. Don't get me wrong, I think everyone in the bottom
ten wants the other results to go their way, and we're no different. But we
do know that if we win our games, especially our home games, where the crowd
have been fans have been fantastic and have helped us, we will stay up.
We've got Stoke City next weekend, then Manchester City, Manchester United
and Everton all at home and I'm hopeful the crowd and everyone associated
with the Club will play their part in getting us over the line.
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Team news: Surgery for Antonio, Lanzini a doubt and Chicharito returns
WHUFC.com
David Moyes has confirmed that Michail Antonio will undergo season-ending
surgery with the intention of ending his long-term hamstring problems. The
West Ham United winger initially suffered an injury in the vital home
victory over Swansea City in April 2017 but, after recovering in time for
the second game of the current Premier League season, Antonio has missed a
further nine matches with rib and calf issues. Last Saturday, he pulled up
after attempting a long-range shot and was forced off, clearly distraught,
and the manager as now revealed that his campaign is over. "Michail is out
for the season. He's going to have an operation sometime this week on his
hamstring, so the biggest thing now is to get him ready for the start of
next season and get him sorted if we can. "He's a big miss for us because
he's someone that we need. He's got great strength and pace and we'll miss
him between now and the end of the season. "They tell me last season he had
very few injuries, then he picked up an injury toward the end of last season
on his hamstring and he's never really recovered from that. In the short
time I've been here, he's had a few pretty bad injuries. "Look, it is what
it is and we have to get on with it. He's a miss for us, and we just have to
hope that we can get him back for the start of next year."
On a more positive note, Moyes confirmed Manuel Lanzini is back on the
training pitch after suffering a knee injury while on international duty
with Argentina and there is a chance he could be in the matchday squad for
Sunday's Premier League fixture at Chelsea. "Manu is back running, but he
was running last week. He's got a medial ligament injury which affects his
turning and twisting. He's able to run in straight lines at the moment. "I'm
hoping for an update on Saturday to see how he is, so I wouldn't completely
rule him out, but at the moment I'd say he's a doubt."
Meanwhile, Chicharito has recovered from the illness which ruled him out of
last Saturday's win over Southampton, while James Collins has overcome his
own hamstring injury and is set to return to full training next week and
should be available to face Stoke City on Monday 16 April. Andy Carroll
(foot), Sam Byram (ankle), Winston Reid and Pedro Obiang (both knee) are
unavailable for Sunday's trip to Stamford Bridge.
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Hart: We've got to stick together and play for each other at Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Joe Hart wants West Ham United give the Club's supporters another reason to
cheer when they take on Chelsea on Sunday. The Hammers head to Stamford
Bridge eager to build on their morale-boosting 3-0 win over Southampton last
weekend – a victory that was inspired by a vociferous London Stadium crowd.
And Hart is hoping the backing of a 3,000-strong Claret and Blue Army in
west London will give the players the boost needed to secure a positive
result against the reigning Premier League champions, who were beaten at
home by Tottenham Hotspur last time out. "We're really together as a group,"
said the England goalkeeper, who has kept six clean sheets in 17 career
appearances against the Blues. "We want to unite the fans as best we can. At
the same time, we've got to stick together and play for each other and that
will translate to the fans and I'm sure they'll appreciate that. "We've got
to concentrate on us on Sunday. If we perform to the best of our ability and
give a good account of themselves, you never know. Chelsea will play as they
do and prepare as they prepare, and they're a top-quality team who won the
league last year and a couple of results aren't going to affect them too
badly. "As I said, I think we've just got to look after us and give a good
account of ourselves."
Hart himself was part of a solid defensive performance against Southampton
last time out, helping the Hammers to keep a welcome clean sheet after the
team had conceded eleven goals in its previous three Premier League matches.
The experienced stopper did not have a save to make thanks to the
outstanding performances of the likes of Angelo Ogbonna and Declan Rice,
among others. At the other end of the pitch, Joao Mario and Marko Arnautovic
were clinical, putting West Ham into a two-goal lead and all but killing off
the Saints' challenge within 17 minutes. "We made a good start and we built
on it. It was nice to score the goals when we were on top because, for all
the situations we've been in, I think we've always been quite even in games
and the first goal has been key for us, so it was nice to get it. "That
first goal [against Southampton] was so important for both teams and, as it
happened, we felt Southampton's weakness and we built on it.
"The boys defended really well and it was nice to be behind. I've just got
to do my job for the team as best I can. It's not all about saving the ball,
you've got to be in the best position you can be in and it was down to all
the boys that we got the result."
While he was protected superbly, Hart was called into action to deal with a
number of set pieces, which he did calmly and effectively. With England
manager Gareth Southgate watching on, the No25 certainly did his 2018 FIFA
World Cup hopes no harm, and Hart himself is naturally desperate to be part
of the Three Lions squad in Russia. "I love being part of that England squad
and that'll never change. Being away with them, I enjoy all the time, but I
also enjoy working here with Woodsy, Adrian and the young 'keepers. "I enjoy
football, so having the opportunity to train and be part of things, whether
that be with West Ham or England, is something that makes me happy."
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Sir Trevor Brooking's one and only West Ham hat-trick 50 years on
WHUFC.com
Sir Trevor Brooking did not know it at the time, but Saturday 6 April 1968
was a unique day in his long and illustrious West Ham United career. Then
just 19, Brooking was in his first season as a member of Ron Greenwood's
senior squad, having made his First Division debut at Burnley the previous
August. Even at such a tender age, the young Brooking's versatile attacking
talents saw Greenwood deploy him in a variety of attacking roles, starting
out on the left side of midfield before moving into a central role in
support of striker Geoff Hurst. However, with the Hammers floundering in
18th place, without a win in five league matches and Hurst absent injured
for the visit of Newcastle United to the Boleyn Ground, Greenwood deployed
the teenager as his centre forward.
Rather than shrink under the massive pressure of leading his struggling team
to victory, Brooking did just that, scoring the only hat-trick of his
professional career as West Ham thrashed the Magpies 5-0. Brian Dear laid on
the first before half-time, which the youngster gleefully smashed into the
net from six yards after Martin Peters had challenged Newcastle goalkeeper
Gordon Marshall. And the home side, whose performance was described as
'stylish' and 'elegant' by The Observer's John Lindsay, would add four more
goals after the break, two from John Sissons and, of course, two more from
the irrepressible Brooking to complete a historic personal treble. "I wore
the No 9 shirt and played centre forward because Geoff Hurst was injured,"
recalled the hat-trick hero himself. "We won 5-0 and I scored a hat-trick.
It might have been one with each foot and a header. "All the players signed
the ball and I put it on top of my Mum and Dad's television set. It sat
there throughout my career. Gradually, all the names faded. "It was my first
season in the team and you think there will be a few more to come but I
never did score another hat-trick."
West Ham, whose starting XI that afternoon also included Billy Bonds, Frank
Lampard, Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Ron Boyce and Harry Redknapp, would
follow up this important win with victories over Nottingham Forest,
Liverpool and Sheffield United to finish the season in 12th place.
Amazingly, though, Brooking's hat-trick were his final goals of the 1967/68
season.
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2018/19 Season Ticket renewal prices frozen!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Season Ticket renewals are now open for the 2018/19 season!
As a reward for the outstanding loyalty and support from our most loyal
fans, Season Ticket Holders in Bands 1-4 – including Accessibility Seats –
and 1966 Seats have had their prices frozen for the second consecutive year.
Band 5 Season Ticket prices have also been frozen, subject to renewing on a
two-year term. Supporters in Band 5 have until 5pm on Friday 27 April to
secure a two-year Season Ticket.
Alternatively, Season Ticket Holders in Band 5 have the option to renew for
one season, but this will be subject to a small price increase. Adult prices
will increase from £289 to £320 and Over-65s and Under-21s will increase
from £145 to £160. Under-16 Band 5 Season Tickets will be frozen at £99 for
2018/19. For full pricing details, click here.
A Season Ticket remains by far the cheapest way to enjoy watching the
Hammers in action, with Adults saving over £400 per season compared to
purchasing match-by-match, while Under-16s can save more than £600 over the
course of the campaign.
Season Ticket Holders also enjoy exclusive benefits, including having the
first opportunity to buy tickets for away matches, discounts instore and
online and on coach travel, and invitations to exclusive events.
If you wish to relocate your seat, we advise that you renew your existing
seat at the earliest possible opportunity. Relocations will be prioritised
based on how early you renew, to enable relocation windows to be scheduled
accordingly.
Monthly Payment Plan
To help Season Ticket Holders pay for their seats, the Club has teamed up
with V12 Season Ticket Finance to offer four and ten-month payment plans*.
The deadline for payment plan applications is Friday 4 May. For full
details, click here.
The deadline to secure your seat for next season is 5pm on Friday 1 June.
After this date, any Season Ticket seat which has not been renewed will be
made available to supporters on the Waiting List from Monday 11 June.
Season Ticket Holders wishing to relocate to new seats will be able to do so
from Monday 4 June until Saturday 9 June, with relocations prioritised by
renewal date.
Home Cup Scheme
By joining you will automatically be allocated your Season Ticket seat for
all home cup games. Once you have renewed your Season Ticket, you can join
at any time online via your eTicketing account.
*West Ham United Football Club Limited is registered in England and Wales
00066516. Registered office: London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
London, E20 2ST. West Ham United Football Club Limited acts as a credit
broker and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as
V12 Retail Finance. West Ham United Football Club Limited is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our registration number is
728632. Credit provided subject to age and status.
Season Ticket Waiting List
If you are not a Season Ticket Holder, you can put yourself in the best
position to watch the Hammers live every week by joining the Season Ticket
Waiting List.
With Season Tickets sold out for the last two seasons, joining the Waiting
List is your only way to secure a Season Ticket. It costs just £10, which
will be redeemable against your future Season Ticket purchase.
You will get priority on any Season Tickets not renewed in order of the date
you joined - so the sooner you join, the better your priority.
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2018/19 Season Tickets - Frequently Asked Questions
WHUFC.com
When is the deadline for renewing Season Tickets for 2018/19?
All Season Ticket renewals must be processed by 5pm on Friday 1 June 2018 to
guarantee your seat for 2018/19.
What are the prices for renewal for 2018/19?
Season Ticket renewal prices have been frozen for 1966 Seats, Band 1, Band
2, Band 3 and Band 4. Band 5 Season Tickets have a price freeze option on a
two-year term (Two payments of £289 for 2018/19 and 2019/20). The rate for
any Adult Band 5 Season Ticket Holders wishing to renew for just one season
is £320. All Season Tickets are subject to a £2 Booking Fee.
What payment methods are taken?
Season Tickets can be renewed using Debit or Credit Card (including Amex),
Cash, Club Cash or four or ten-month payment plans*.
How and when can I pay?
You can pay online via eTicketing 24 hours a day. Alternatively, you can
renew by telephone on 0333 030 1966 or visit the London Stadium Ticket
Office in person between 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday. The Call Centre will
also be open until 7pm on Thursdays throughout May 2018 and will also be
open 9am-5pm on Bank Holiday Monday 28 May.
Can I split payments between different methods?
Payments can be split between Club Cash and Debit or Credit Card (including
Amex). Prior to Monday 7 May, to split payments, please call us on 0333 030
1966. From 11am on Monday 7 May, you will be able to split the payment
online via eTicketing.
What payment plan* options are available?
You can apply to pay by monthly instalments via our partner V12 Season
Ticket Finance*, with the following options available:
Ten-month plan – This plan offers a low 6% arrangement fee that will be
added to the first instalment.
Four-month plan – Season ticket renewal price will be divided into four
equal payments, with a £30 arrangement fee added to the first instalment.
The first instalment will be due on each option 30 days after acceptance.
To pay using a monthly payment plan, simply select Pay By Instalments at
checkout stage when renewing online at eticketing.co.uk/WHUFC
Applications can also be made in person or over the phone. Please have
details for Employment and Home addresses covering the last six years and
current bank details for a credit check. The deadline to apply for a payment
plan online is Friday 4 May.
What is Club Cash?
Club Cash can be generated by the listing and subsequent selling of your
Season Ticket seat on our Ticket Exchange system for matches you cannot
attend, subject to the match being sold out and Ticket Exchange being
activated. The seat must sell for you to receive Club Cash. Club Cash
balances can be used fully or partly against Season Ticket renewals or on
additional Home match tickets, upgrades and on retail items instore and
online.
When will my Club Cash expire?
Balances expire on 31 May of each year following that season, beginning on
31 May 2018.
What happens if I sell my seat from the Ticket Exchange and earn Club Cash
after I renew?
Any Club Cash balances accrued via tickets being sold on the Ticket Exchange
after renewal but before 31 May will have these transactions reinstated to
your Club Cash balances over the summer prior to the first match of the
2018/19 season. (e.g. If you renew your Season Ticket on 21 April using an
£80 Club Cash balance. Following this, at the beginning of May, you then
list and sell your seat for a Home match on the Ticket Exchange for £30.
This Club Cash should expire on 31 May, however, due to having already
renewed your Season Ticket, this £30 will be reinstated to your account
before the start of the 2018/19 season).
What is the Home Cup Scheme?
By joining the Home Cup Scheme, you will automatically be allocated your
Season Ticket seat for all Home cup games, subject to seat availability. You
can join at any time via the 'My Account' section on the eTicketing page, or
by calling the Club by telephone. Some Season Ticket Holders may be
requested to move to alternate seats if the visiting club take up their full
cup ticket allocation. For every home cup game purchase, you will also earn
a Priority Point. Your seat for home cup matches will be allocated and
payment made prior to the match going on sale to Season Ticket Holders.
Please ensure that the card details you supply are correct and you have
sufficient funds to process each cup ticket. An incentive and prize will be
awarded to Home Cup Scheme members at the time of each cup fixture.
How can Away Season Ticket Holders renew for 2018/19?
Supporters currently on the Away Season Ticket Scheme have the first option
to remain on this for the 2018/19 season subject to the renewal of their
Home Season Ticket and contacting the Club to confirm the wish to remain an
Away Season Ticket Holder by Friday 1 June 2018. For those wanting to join
the Away Scheme for the 2018/19 season, a reserve list shall be set up to
join, based on date of Home Season Ticket renewal. Upon renewal, you should
contact the Club and request to join. Those who are successful will be
contacted in June. Those not successful at this point shall remain on the
reserve list for the season and will replace any Season Ticket Holders who
drop out the Away Season Ticket scheme. Positions will be limited and can be
closed at any point by the Club due to volume and availability. The Away
Season Ticket Scheme will then be reviewed ahead of the 2019/20 season.
How will seat relocation requests be handled for 2018/19?
Relocations will be based on time of renewal, subject to availability, and
commence from Monday 4 June. You must have renewed your Season Ticket to
apply for relocation. Windows will be set by the club, giving the supporter
a period during which they can call the Ticket Office to relocate. These
shall be communicated on the website and by email. Due to the large volume
of people who relocated in summer 2017, it is anticipated that there will be
extremely limited availability in popular areas, including the Lower Tier.
Any change of Band and resulting price increase brought about by relocation
will be required to be paid by Debit or Credit Card (including Amex) or Cash
at the time of relocation.
Can I go up/down a price Band at the time of relocation?
Subject to availability you can look at alternate price Bands. Any extra
payments will be required at the time of moving seats. Any change of Band
and resulting price increase brought about by relocation will be required to
be paid by Debit or Credit Card (including Amex) or Cash.
What if I don't renew for 2018/19?
The deadline for renewal is 5pm on Friday 1 June. Unsold Season Ticket
Holder seats will immediately be available in the relocation stage and,
following this, be made available to those on the Waiting List.
Can I buy additional Season Ticket seats for 2018/19?
If you wish to buy additional Season Ticket seats for 2018/19, please join
the Waiting List under the name of the potential new Season Ticket Holder.
Which matches are included in the Season Ticket?
All Home league matches, plus first option on Home cup tickets. You also
have access to many exclusive benefits which can be viewed here. [Insert
hyperlink].
Do the Club require proof of age for Concession Season Tickets?
Subject to the Club's Terms and Conditions, the Club reserves the right to
investigate and request proof of eligibility at their discretion.
How do I access London Stadium next season?
For the 2018/19 season, if you are renewing the same seat, your current
Season Card will be reactivated. PLEASE DO NOT THROW YOUR CARD AWAY. New or
replacement Season Cards are subject to a £10 administration fee. If you
chose to relocate to new seats, a new Season Card will be sent prior to the
start of the 2018/19 season.
Will I have the same Season Card as the 2017/18 season?
YES. So please keep your current Season Card.
Can the name be changed on the Season Ticket?
Name change requests are at the discretion of the Club and should be put in
writing to the Club by emailing ticketoffice@westhamunited.co.uk. Seats
cannot be downgraded. All successful name changes are subject to a £10
administration fee.
Who qualifies for Concession Season Tickets?
Age-related concessions are available for Over-65s, Under-21s and Under-16s.
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
Over-65s – Date of birth on or before 1 August 1953
Under-21s – Date of birth on or after 1 September 1997
Under-16s – Date of birth on or after 1 September 2002
Accessibility concessions are available if you are able to provide one of
the following:
Disability Living Allowance – Higher Rate Mobility or Care
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Enhanced Rate Mobility or Daily
Living, CVI/BD8
What are the details regarding the Band 5 two-year term option?
The Band 5 two-year term offer is available until 5pm on Friday 27 April.
The Band 5 two-year term option will ensure that your seat is purchased at a
fixed price for the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, meaning nothing will be
required to be paid for at the renewal stage in summer 2019. On purchasing
these seats, you will not qualify for a seat relocation for the 2018/19
season. Details regarding renewal and potential relocation for the 2020/21
season will be shared when full details for that season are announced.
How do I take the Band 5 option on just a one-year term?
Season Ticket Holders currently in Band 5 do have the option of renewing for
a one-year term, with a small price increase to £320 for Adults and £160 for
Over-65s and Under-21s. To renew on a one-year term, please call the Ticket
Office on 0333 030 1966.
*West Ham United Football Club Limited is registered in England and Wales
00066516. Registered office: London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
London, E20 2ST. West Ham United Football Club Limited acts as a credit
broker and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as
V12 Retail Finance. West Ham United Football Club Limited is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our registration number is
728632. Credit provided subject to age and status.
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Season Ticket renewals: Payment plan information
WHUFC.com
Season Ticket renewals: Payment plan information
West Ham United are offering Season Ticket Holders the chance to pay for
their seat for 2018/19 by four or ten monthly instalments*.
Supporters renewing for next season can apply to pay by monthly instalments
via one of two simple payment plans delivered with the Club's partner V12
Season Ticket Finance.
The following options are available:
Ten-month plan – This plan offers a low 6% arrangement fee that will be
added to the first instalment.
Four-month plan – Season ticket renewal price will be divided into four
equal payments, with a £30 arrangement fee added to the first instalment.
Click here for full payment plan pricing information
Season Ticket Holders wishing to renew for 2018/19 using a monthly payment
plan should simply select that option at checkout stage when renewing online
at eticketing.co.uk/WHUFC. Please note that a minimum total cost of £250
applies on all payment plans.
The deadline to apply for a payment plan is Friday 4 May. Your first payment
will be taken 30 days after your application has been processed.
RENEW YOUR SEASON TICKET NOW!
2018/19 SEASON TICKETS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
*West Ham United Football Club Limited is registered in England and Wales
00066516. Registered office: London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
London, E20 2ST. West Ham United Football Club Limited acts as a credit
broker and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as
V12 Retail Finance. West Ham United Football Club Limited is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our registration number is
728632. Credit provided subject to age and status.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United recognised for commitment to equality
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's commitment to promoting diversity and equality across the
Club and in our wider community has been formally recognised by the Premier
League. The Club is pleased to announce that the Premier League has awarded
it the Intermediate Equality Standard in recognition of a range of
initiatives and campaigns. The Hammers recently submitted its evidence from
the past two years to a Premier League panel made up of experts and are
delighted that their efforts have been recognised by this award.
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "Equality and diversity are
at the heart of West Ham United's values. We are committed to eliminating
discrimination and creating an environment in which everyone is not only
respected but valued. "Since our move we've invested more than £6m into
Newham and the surrounding Olympic boroughs, which has allowed us to work
hand-in-hand with a number of local charities, while our brilliant Disabled
Supporters Advisory Board makes a real difference to the matchday experience
for supporters with accessibility needs. "Since consulting with them, we've
been able to provide more free shuttle buses than any other club in the
Premier League and are training staff in disability awareness and BSL to
communicate in sign language – in fact, I'm proud to say I passed my own BSL
module 101 this week! "West Ham United pays all full and part-time staff
the London Living Wage, helping to address social inequality and our -9.76%
gender pay gap shows we take equal pay seriously. "We passionately believe
in a culture that embraces equality and values diversity, so we are thrilled
that our important work in this area has been recognised by the Premier
League."
Premier League Executive Director Bill Bush said: "The Premier League is
committed to tackling discrimination and promoting equality, and through the
Premier League Equality Standard encourages clubs to develop partnerships,
activities, and projects targeted at under-represented communities and
individuals. "West Ham United's achievement in attaining the Intermediate
level is testament to the hard work undertaken by the club and its
foundation over the last two years, and we look forward to seeing their
continued efforts as they work towards achieving the Advanced level."
Roisin Wood, CEO of Kick It Out, which provides support and advice to clubs
regarding best equality practice, said: "We're pleased to see West Ham
making progress in developing their equality practices and sending a clear
message that the club is welcome to everyone who supports zero tolerance to
discrimination, abusive conduct and exclusion."
The Club's achievements – as part of a three-year Equality Action Plan which
covers all areas of the business - were recognised by the Premier League's
independent assessment panel. They include:
The formation of the Disabled Supporters Association (DSAB) alongside the
existing Supporter Advisory Board (SAB), with representation from all
protected groups on the SAB. Both groups meet three times a year.
Increased provision of shuttle buses for both home and away supporters with
accessibility needs.
Up to 40 Supporter Liaison Officers (SLOs) on hand on matchday to assist
supporters at London Stadium.
A 47 per cent increase in matchday staff from BAME backgrounds.
A 16 per cent increase in female matchday staff.
The launch of a diversity campaign (We Are West Ham. United) – which has
reached more than a million fans online and via our stadium screens.
Official partnerships with six unique and diverse charities including
Blesma, Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK, Richard House Children's
Hospice and others
Regular engagement and project delivery with external campaign organisations
like Stonewall, Show Racism the Red Card, Kick it Out and Holocaust Memorial
Fund
Award-winning Foundation that delivers life changing opportunities to more
than 20,000 residents over 35 projects across education, employment, health,
inclusion and football development.
A comprehensive programme of equality training which ensures that all staff
receive training and senior staff attend bespoke themed training. For
example, mental-health awareness, disability awareness and unconscious bias
training
Having achieved the Intermediate Level award, the Club can now work towards
the Premier League's Equality Standard Advanced goal.
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Westley: Man City win was as good as I've seen us play!
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Terry Westley has hailed West Ham United U23s' 1-0 victory
away to Manchester City as the side's best performance of the season. A
stunning free-kick from Marcus Browne from 25 yards out in the first period
of Thursday's contest put the Irons on the road to an impressive win in
Manchester against a City team that, prior to the match, had won their last
three games. The overall quality of the performance from the Hammers was
impressive, something Westley was keen to note, with the Academy Director
delighted with how his side performed across the park. "That was possibly
our best performance all season," Westley proudly told whufc.com: "That was
Manchester City's best team that they could put out. We spoke to their staff
before the game and they thought that was the best team they've fielded all
season, so we knew how good we were going to have to be to stay with them."
He continued: "I have to say to both teams that it was a high-quality game.
In and out of possession, you have to be at your very best throughout the
whole 90 minutes, and we matched them. We scored a great free-kick through
Marcus Browne and the sum of our football was scintillating. "Sometimes you
can be very good with the ball, and not do the job off the ball. You can get
wow moments, but the game is 90 minutes long and you have to play when you
haven't got the ball. We saw that tonight in all of our players. I think it
took that tonight to match this team. We needed everyone at their best and
that was as good as I have seen us play."
Browne's stunning strike was the difference between the two teams on the
evening, but Westley feels each and every one of his side played to the best
of their ability in Thursday's win. Westley was aware that City were just a
spark of quality away from getting in the game, but is ultimately pleased
with a strong showing from his side. Westley added: "We said in the team
meeting beforehand that everyone had to do their job, and do it at their
very best, and I think we saw that right across the team. "Nathan Holland
in the first half absolutely tortured their right centre-back, so much so
that in the end they were forced to make a change. Trott made big saves,
Pask was immense at the back, but Tunji beside him was very, very good. We
were brave because we went and marked man-for-man, leaving Tunji on his own
at the back at times, with Pask stepping right into midfield. 'We were
dangerous on the counter attack and could have been three up inside 20
minutes, but they were just one moment away from getting back in the game.
We showed real resilience tonight and it was a terrific advert for U23
football. We're delighted to come out on top."
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Browne: Man City free-kick is one of my best ever goals
WHUFC.com
Marcus Browne has named his winning free-kick against Manchester City for
the West Ham United U23s as one of his best ever goals. Browne was on hand
to power home a sensational free-kick from 25 yards in the first half of
Thursday's Premier League 2 contest, with the midfielder's moment of quality
the only difference between the Irons and the Citizens in his side's 1-0
victory. The 20-year-old has been practicing his set-pieces on the training
pitches and is now reaping the rewards for his extra effort, admitting the
goal is even more special for being the only finish of a close match between
two good sides. "Scoring a goal like that feels amazing," Browne told
whufc.com: "To be fair, every goal does, but the fact that this goal, and a
finish like that, was the only goal of the game made it super special. "It's
definitely up there as one of my best. It's not an easy strike to attempt
but I've been practicing them during training, anf thankfully that work has
paid off for me on this occasion."
The win for the Hammers ended a three-match winning run for City, and put
the Irons just a point behind Thursday's opponents, with Terry Westley's
side moving up to seventh in the league. Browne continued: "It was a
massive performance from the boys tonight. It wasn't easy at all because
City are a really good team, but everyone played their partt for us. We dug
in really deep and fought with everything we had to make sure we left with
the three points. "I spoke to the boys just before kick-off and told them
that the game wasn't going to be easy at all. We knew we were going to have
to work hard for each other and back each other up for 90 minutes. Everyone
played their part. We all stuck to the game plan really well and we got our
rewards because of it."
Having picked up a couple of disappointing results in 2018, and losing their
last match - a fixture against Chelsea at the beginning of March - Browne
admits the win away to City is a big boost to confidence for the Irons
heading into another tough game next Monday, away to Everton. "This is a
massive confidence booster for us as a team," Browne added: "We know we're a
good side and we're capable of beating anyone in the league, but the game on
Monday against Everton is going to be just as tough. "We need to recoup and
prepare as well as possible to give us the best chance of getting a good
result. We go into every match believing we can win so we'll be going to
Everton looking to come back with nothing other than the three points."
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Trott: I was really proud of my City performance
WHUFC.com
Nathan Trott expressed his pride after putting in a solid display between
the sticks to help West Ham United's U23 side to a 1-0 away victory against
Manchester City in Premier League 2. The Hammers travelled to City's
Football Academy on the back of three weeks without a fixture, but started
quickly in the north west and soon took the lead through Marcus Browne's
unstoppable free-kick from 25 yards. Trott denied the hosts on countless
occasions throughout the opening period before making a couple of crucial
stops in the second 45 too, holding onto a clean sheet and helping his team
achieve maximum points. The England U20 keeper was just one impressive
individual in a team full of terrific performances though, and he was
delighted for the whole squad at the final whistle. "I think everyone before
the game, we had a game plan that we stuck to and I think that everyone kind
of put 100 per cent effort into the game," he said. "It worked out at the
end.
"In that game you have to take your opportunities and we took our one
opportunity. We had more and we could have scored more, but we'll take the
goal and we defended really well throughout the whole game. "I was really
proud of my performance. This is what goalkeepers are supposed to do you
know; you're supposed to make these big saves in these big games and I think
in the season where we are now and where we want to be, three points was
really important so I was really pleased I could help the team out today."
Browne's free-kick – his second goal of the season – came ten minutes before
the break, and Trott revealed nobody was surprised to see the forward smash
the set-piece in off the inside of the post. "Browney works on his
free-kicks in training and I think that it game on the perfect day," the
stopper explained. "That's probably what got us the result today. "The whole
team are really close in training so when it comes in matches and we work
together like that, it's nothing strange and we know it's going to happen.
We have a game plan and it really worked out today. "It's another tough game
at Everton [on Monday]. We know that Everton are a really great team and I
think it will be another tough 90 minutes. Everyone needs to be prepared,
get rested and get ready to go again."
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Chelsea v West Ham United
SUN 08 APR 2018PREMIER LEAGUE
16:30
Venue: Stamford Bridge
TEAM NEWS
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois could make his comeback after recovering
from a hamstring injury. Pedro may also return from a minor problem but both
David Luiz and Ethan Ampadu are ruled out.
West Ham could again be without midfielder Manuel Lanzini, who is a major
doubt because of a knee injury. Defender James Collins may again miss out
with a hamstring problem, while a similar injury will keep winger Michail
Antonio out for the rest of the season. However, striker Javier Hernandez is
available after overcoming an illness.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Guy Mowbray: "There'll be a sombre mood before kick-off, as Stamford Bridge
mourns the passing of a favourite son. "For many of my generation, Ray
Wilkins was the first Chelsea player we ever heard of. For anyone who knew
him, their world has lost - to use one of his own expressions - a smashing
fella. "The best tribute the current Chelsea side could then pay would be to
lift themselves to a (currently) rare win as their title defence fizzles out
tamely. "West Ham's need is even more pressing though, and they must start
with the belief that they can follow last week's vital victory against
Southampton with a first away to Chelsea for over 15 years. It's still a big
ask."
Twitter: @Guymowbray
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte on Ray Wilkins: "We are talking about a
really good person. I was lucky to know him and speak with him many times.
He was a legend for this club, an ambassador for football. "I think on
Sunday we must be ready to make a great memory to Ray."
West Ham manager David Moyes: "We're not safe yet. We need more points. Next
up is Chelsea and we need some points there. "It gave us all a boost to win
last weekend. It was an emphatic performance in the first half and it gave
us the chance to go on and win the game quite well. "I'm always basing
myself on the fact that 40 points is what we need to get to. "Hopefully it
won't take as much as that, but to get to 40 is a long way to go for the
teams below us. We need to focus on picking up seven or eight points
ourselves."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
The Hammers will be buoyed by their win over Saints last time out, but do I
think they have got enough to go to Stamford Bridge and come away unbeaten?
No, I don't.
Prediction: 2-0
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Chelsea are unbeaten in their last 11 Premier League home matches against
West Ham (W8, D3).
Antonio Conte's first game in charge of Chelsea was a 2-1 home win against
West Ham in August 2016.
The Hammers last won at Stamford Bridge in September 2002 when Paolo Di
Canio's late goal clinched a 3-2 victory.
A win would see West Ham complete a league double against Chelsea for the
first time since 2002-03, a season in which the Hammers were relegated.
Chelsea
Chelsea have lost five of their last seven Premier League games - as many
defeats as they suffered in total last season.
They could suffer back-to-back league defeats at Stamford Bridge for the
first time since November 2011 (against Arsenal and then Liverpool).
The Blues are two short of becoming the third club to score 1,700 Premier
League goals, after Manchester United (1,916) and Arsenal (1,756).
Alvaro Morata has scored in his last two league and cup games for Chelsea,
and will be hoping to score in three successive matches for the first time
since joining the Blues.
Eden Hazard has failed to score in 12 of his last 13 appearances at Stamford
Bridge in all competitions, with the only exception his two-goal haul
against West Brom on 12 February.
N'Golo Kante and Danny Drinkwater could both make their 100th appearance in
the Premier League.
West Ham United
The Hammers have lost all three of their Premier League games played on a
Sunday this season, conceding eight times in total and scoring just once.
West Ham have lost their last three Premier League away games. They last
lost four in a row between May and September 2016, a sequence which includes
a 2-1 defeat at Chelsea.
Defeat would be West Ham's 1,000th loss in the top flight.
David Moyes has yet to win a Premier League game away to Chelsea, drawing
six and losing eight of 14 top-flight matches at Stamford Bridge.
Moyes is winless in his last 29 away league games against 'big six'
opposition (D9, L20).
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 2-0 Probability of draw: 15%
Probability of home win: 78% Probability of away win: 7%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Liverpool that is used to predict the outcome of
football matches.
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OUR SWISS WONDER KID
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 APRIL 2018 AT 5:27PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Jake McMullan @JakeMcMullan1
We come off the back of an excellent result against Southampton. I will go
on record by saying that I don't think I've seen a worse performance all
season that that of the Saints against us but that being said I thought we
were superb and had them on the ropes from minute one. The crowd was
spectacular throughout and Saturday was evidence that this new stadium can
become home provided the performances on the pitch merit our full support.
I was highly nervous going into the game and I think I speak for almost
everyone when I say that my nerves weren't eased when Antonio, possibly our
best asset on the counter attack, went off injured. Up stepped Edimilson
Fernandes and he simply put, was nothing short of brilliant. Despite his
long term injury he looked to have a real spring in his step, with pace and
determination to win every second ball. Arnautovic, Rice, Masuaku and the
likes took the plaudits and understandably so, but for me, Fernandes stood
out the most. He dominated the midfield, gave us width, wasn't afraid to put
in a challenge and played a big part in the second goal. Additionally, the
passion he showed for the second goal demonstrates his real commitment for
the club.
I think people forget he is just 21 years of age (soon to be turning 22), he
was our most used substitute last season and was even trusted by Bilic to
fill in at left-wing back when both Cresswell and Masuaku were out. We cry
for Cullen to be given game time and understandably so as he's 'one of our
own', but for me personally, Fernandes is the far superior player. He may
have some years to develop into the finished article yet but he certainly
has huge potential.
Whether or not Fernandes is good enough for us to think about building a
team around him I don't know, but what he showed against Southampton was
that he's much more than just a central midfielder, he can cover the entire
pitch. Players like him can be pivotal to how a side functions. I personally
feel once he develops his end product (which most young players do over
time) he could turn into a top class midfielder.
West Ham have a potential Swiss wonder kid on their hands, and it's time he
starts being given the license to realise that potential.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
2018-19 season ticket prices unveiled
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
Season ticket prices for supporters in Bands 1-4 and the 1966 zone have been
frozen for the 2018/19 season. And those fans with season tickets in Band 5
can also take advantage of the price freeze - on condition that they sign a
TWO-YEAR agreement, effectively doubling their commitment, by Friday 27
April. In order to enjoy the benefits of the price freeze, season ticket
holders have until 5pm on Friday 1 June to renew after which time any seats
not allocated with be offered to those on the waiting list. Even though the
club claim to have in the region of 50,000 supporters on the list, which
based upon last year's uptake would take TEN years to clear, the club are
still accepting fresh applications. The cost to join the waiting list is £10
per supporter, but offers no guarantee of a season ticket.
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West Ham linked with former Man U star
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are hoping to lure former Manchester United midfielder Shinji
Kagawa back to the Premier League this summer, according to the latest
transfer speculation. The 29-year-old, who is currently enjoying a second
spell with Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga spent two years at Old
Trafford between 2012 and 2014 during which he made 57 appearances. And
having worked with Kagawa in the second of his two years in England, current
West Ham manager David Moyes - formerly manager of Manchester Utd - knows
the player better than many. Everton are also reported to have expressed
interest in signing the Japanese international, who has scored six times
this season for Die Schwarzgelben.
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Champions statue to remain in Upton Park
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
The Champions statue at the junction of Barking Road and Green Street is to
remain in Upton Park - should Labour candidate Rokhsana Fiaz be elected as
the new Mayor of Newham. A local cabinet meeting at which the statue's
future was to be discussed has been cancelled after councillors agreed that
the statue would remain in situ for the foreseeable future - to the delight
of local campaigners, who have long argued that the sculpture should remain
at its original site. And Custom House councillor Fiaz - who is one of three
candidates and the hot favourite to replace outgoing Mayor Sir Robin Wales -
has pledged to keep the 16ft-high statue, created by Philip Jackson between
2001 and 2003 should she be placed in office. The election for the new Mayor
of Newham takes place on Thursday, 3 May. The Champions sculpture cost in
the region of £700,000 to build, more than half of which came from a
Government grant. The remaining costs were paid for by the Green Street
Single Regeneration Budget, the Arts Council for England, Arts & Business
and West Ham United. It was unveiled in April 2003 by the Duke of York,
Prince Andrew, who was joined at the opening ceremony by Geoff Hurst, Martin
Peters, Ray Wilson and Bobby Moore's widow Stephanie.
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Michail Antonio to have surgery as Manuel Lanzini doubtful for West Ham at
Chelsea
Last Updated: 06/04/18 8:15pm
SSN
West Ham manager David Moyes has confirmed that forward Michail Antonio is
to have surgery and will miss the rest of the season. The Hammers may also
be without Manuel Lanzini for Sunday's important Sky Live London derby at
Chelsea - although Moyes is not prepared to rule him out yet. Antonio left
the pitch in tears after he was injured early on during the defeat of
Southampton last weekend. Moyes said: "He is going to have an operation
sometime this week on his hamstring and the biggest thing now is to get him
ready for the start of next season. "He is a big miss to us. He is someone
that we need, he has got great strength and pace. "He picked up a hamstring
injury at the end of last season and has never really recovered from it. In
the short time I have been here, he has had a few pretty bad injuries. "It
is what it is, we just hope we can get him back quickly for the start of
next year."
Lanzini has been out since the loss to Burnley on March 10 but his return
may not be far away. Moyes said: "He is back running and he was running last
week as well. "He has got a medial ligament injury, which is affecting his
twisting and turning. He is able to run in straight lines at the moment. "I
wouldn't completely rule him out but at the moment I would think he is a
doubt."
One player almost certain to feature on Sunday is Marko Arnautovic, who
impressed during the vital win over the Saints last weekend. "Since I have
been here, he has been excellent," said Moyes. "His goals have made a big
difference. "He is a massively important player for the team and he will
feel good about that. "I think he is a player who needs that status and he
has got the ability to be that type of player."
West Ham are five points clear of the drop after last week's win but Moyes
says they need to build on their 33-point haul. We are not safe yet," he
said. "Next up is Chelsea and we need some points there. "I'm always basing
myself on the fact that 40 points is what we need to get to. Hopefully it
won't take as much as that, but 40 is a long way to go for the teams below
us. "I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with some
excellent players. We'll go there and give them great respect but with a
gameplan to bring points back here."
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Chelsea v West Ham preview: Blues looking to bounce back live on Sky Sports
Watch live on Sky Sports Premier League or Main Event from 4.15pm on Sunday
Last Updated: 06/04/18 10:21pm
SSN
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back from defeat and continue their home
run against West Ham when the two meet live on Sky Sports on Sunday
afternoon.
The Blues were beaten 3-1 by Tottenham last weekend to extend the gap
between Chelsea in fifth and the top four to eight points. However, they
have not lost in 11 home Premier League games against the Hammers (W8 D3).
Antonio Conte admits it will be tough to make a top four surge with just
seven games remaining but the Italian still wants to see his players
battling until the end. "We have to try to do everything to continue to have
the possibility to fight for a place in the Champions League," he said. "It
won't be easy, we have to be realistic, but at the same time we have to give
all of ourselves. We must show pride, desire, will to fight until the end of
the season - this must be our target now. "I think that everyone has to show
pride, desire and a will to fight until the end of the season. This is very
important for me, for my staff and for the players, also because the
supporters deserve at least this." West Ham have already beaten Chelsea this
season though, winning the reverse fixture 1-0 in December and handing David
Moyes his first victory as Hammers boss. When asked if his side could do the
double, he said: "I hope lightning can strike twice and we can do it again.
I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with some
excellent players. "We'll go there and give them great respect but with a
game-plan to bring points back here to West Ham. They have to win all their
games as a top club so don't think for a minute that they will switch off.
We have to hope we catch them on an off-day and we perform well. If we do, I
hope we can give them a really good game."
Team news
Chelsea could have both Thibaut Courtois and Pedro fit. The Belgian has been
missing with a hamstring injury, with the Spain forward absent due to an
unspecified knock, but the pair are in contention to return against the
Hammers.
West Ham's Michail Antonio will miss the game, as well as the rest of the
season, following his injury against Southampton last weekend. Moyes
confirmed Manuel Lanzini, who missed the game with the Saints, may feature.
Opta stats
Chelsea have lost five of their last seven Premier League games (W2). That's
as many as they lost in their entire title winning campaign of 2016-17 under
Antonio Conte.
The Blues haven't lost back-to-back home Premier League London derbies since
1999, when they lost 0-1 against West Ham in the March, before Kanu's
hat-trick saw Arsenal triumph 3-2 in the October.
David Moyes has won none of his 14 away Premier League games against
Chelsea, drawing six and losing eight.
Indeed, Moyes has won none of his last 29 away league games against 'big
six' sides (D9 L20), since a 2-1 win at Man City with Everton in December
2010.
Merson's prediction
It's a big game but I do fancy Chelsea. After last week, though West Ham had
a good result, it's a huge game for Chelsea. Chelsea have to put a show on
for their fans after last week against Tottenham. That was a disaster. Fair
play to West Ham last week, to turn up in major pressure. It's unbelievable.
For me, I just think this is a game too far for them. PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0
(5-1 with Sky Bet)
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MATCH PREVIEW: CHELSEA V WEST HAM
By Dan Coker 7 Apr 2018 at 08:00
WTID
Stamford Bridge, 28th September 2002 – West Ham United's last victory at the
home of Chelsea. The Blues went into the match unbeaten from their first
seven league games of the season. Atomic Kitten were number one with 'The
Tide Is High' and Mel Gibson topped the UK box office in Signs as the
Hammers arrived in west London rooted to the bottom of the Premier League
having picked up just two points from their opening six league games.
The beleaguered Hammers were dealt a blow after just four minutes when
striker Frederic Kanoute suffered a groin injury and had to be replaced by
Jermain Defoe – Kanoute would not play again until Boxing Day, his absence
playing a big part in the Hammers' struggles in 2002/03. Despite this
setback, the Hammers impressed in the opening 20 minutes in front of 38,929
before an irresponsible and unnecessary scissor challenge by Tomas Repka saw
Claudio Ranieri's Chelsea win a free-kick wide on the left and the Czech
defender go into the book. Bolo Zenden's delivery seemed innocuous enough
until referee Mike Dean adjudged former Blues left-back Scott Minto to have
held back Robert Huth and a penalty was awarded. Chelsea skipper Jimmy Floyd
Hasselbaink made no mistake, sending David James the wrong way from the spot
with 21 minutes played.
Glenn Roeder's Hammers equalised five minutes before half-time. Paolo Di
Canio's corner was knocked on by Trevor Sinclair into the path of Steve
Lomas, the Ulsterman's shot was parried by Carlo Cudicini but Defoe reacted
quickest to turn the ball into the net.
The second half saw Di Canio take centre stage – three minutes into the
second half, the Italian picked the ball up wide on the right from Sebastian
Schemmel's throw-in, cut inside, flicked the ball up with his right foot
before hammering an unstoppable left-foot volley beyond the despairing dive
of his countryman Cudicini. Chelsea's equaliser arrived on 74 minutes,
future Hammers manager Gianfranco Zola coming off the bench to curl a
trademark free-kick into the corner of James' goal after, this time, a clear
foul by Minto.
It was Di Canio who had the last word though, with six minutes remaining –
James' long free-kick was poorly defended by the Blues backline and the ball
broke for Di Canio at a tight angle to the left of Cudicini's goal, the
Hammers captain finding the tiniest of gaps at the near post to restore the
Irons' lead and claim West Ham's first win of the season. My video below
contains all the goals from this London derby, as well as interviews with
manager Roeder and midfielder Lomas.
The Hammers, of course, went on to be relegated in 18th place that season
while Chelsea ended up in fourth. Joe Cole was voted Hammer of the Year,
with Defoe runner-up. Defoe was also the Irons' top scorer that season with
11 goals in 42 appearances. Manchester United won the league and Arsenal won
the FA Cup.
Chelsea: Carlo Cudicini, Mario Melchiot, Robert Huth, William Gallas, Bolo
Zenden (Gianfranco Zola), Jesper Gronkjaer, Jody Morris, Frank Lampard,
Mario Stanic, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Eidur Gudjohnsen.
West Ham United: David James, Sebastian Schemmel, Tomas Repka, Gary Breen,
Scott Minto, Trevor Sinclair, Steve Lomas, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole,
Frederic Kanoute (Jermain Defoe), Paolo Di Canio (Edouard Cisse).
Club Connections
A decent number of players have represented both West Ham United and
Chelsea. Victor Moses spent the 2015/16 season on loan with the Hammers and
is now proving a key player for Antonio Conte's Blues. Others to have worn
the colours of both clubs include:
Goalkeepers: Craig Forrest and Harry Medhurst.
Defenders: Tal Ben Haim, Scott Minto, Wayne Bridge, Ian Pearce, Joe Kirkup,
Glen Johnson and Jon Harley.
Midfielders: Bill Jackson, Frank Lampard Junior, Andy Malcolm, Syd Bishop,
Peter Brabrook, Alan Dickens, George Horn, Eric Parsons, Robert Bush, Scott
Parker, Yossi Benayoun, Jim Frost and John Sissons.
Strikers: David Speedie, Len Goulden, Billy Bridgeman, Demba Ba, Joe Payne,
Clive Allen, George Hilsdon, Carlton Cole, Billy Brown, Jimmy Greaves, Pop
Robson, Billy Williams, Ron Tindall and Bob Deacon.
Bobby Gould played for West Ham and went on to be assistant and caretaker
manager of Chelsea. Ron Greenwood and Gianfranco Zola played for Chelsea and
managed West Ham, while Sir Geoff Hurst and Dave Sexton both played for the
Hammers and managed the Blues. Avram Grant has managed both clubs.
Today's focus though is on an Academy graduate who had two spells at Upton
Park and spent seven years at Stamford Bridge. Joe Cole was born in
Paddington on the 8th November 1981 and was a prodigious young talent who
was linked with a £10m move to Manchester United before he'd even made his
professional debut. Likened to Paul Gascoigne, Cole made his debut at the
age of 17 in January 1999 in a 1-1 FA Cup draw at home against Swansea; his
league debut arrived eight days later in a 4-1 defeat at Old Trafford. Cole
was a key figure in the Hammers' FA Youth Cup winning team in 1999 and also
played his part in the senior team's InterToto Cup success later that
summer. His first goal for the club came in a 3-2 League Cup win at
Birmingham in November 1999 while his first league strike came in the 5-4
win over Bradford in February 2000.
Cole scored five goals in 2000/01, including one in the 3-0 win at Coventry
and strikes in the 1-1 home draws with Bradford and Coventry. He also
notched crucial goals in the 3-1 home win over Derby and 3-0 home victory
over Southampton as the under-performing Hammers secured their survival in
the top flight the weekend before Harry Redknapp's departure.
Cole made his England debut in May 2001 and scored his first goal under new
Hammers manager Glenn Roeder in the 3-0 FA Cup third round win at
Macclesfield in January 2002. The skilful midfielder was part of England's
2002 World Cup squad and got his 2002/03 campaign off to a flyer, scoring
from distance to give the Irons the lead against champions Arsenal only for
the Gunners to eventually claim a 2-2 draw at Upton Park. The season was a
turbulent one, with Cole one of the few players to emerge with credit from a
campaign which would end in relegation. Joey also scored in the 2-1 home
defeat to Birmingham, the 2-2 draw at Middlesbrough, the 3-2 FA Cup third
round home win over Nottingham Forest and the 2-2 home draw with Newcastle.
He was named captain by Roeder in January 2003 and was voted Hammer of the
Year by the club's supporters at the season's end.
The 21-year-old Cole left West Ham United in the summer of 2003 to sign for
Chelsea in a £6.6m deal, having scored 13 goals in 150 appearances for the
Hammers. He made his debut for the Blues as a substitute a week after
signing for the club in a Champions League qualifier away to MSK Zilina and
scored his first goal in October 2003 in a League Cup tie against Notts
County. His first league strike in a Chelsea shirt came in a 2-1 defeat at
Aston Villa in December 2003. Cole became a regular in Jose Mourinho's
2004/05 Premier League title-winning team, scoring nine goals in all
competitions.
2005/06 saw Cole score a career-high 11 goals in a season in all
competitions, earning himself a place in the PFA Team of the Year as Chelsea
retained their Premier League title. The following campaign was an
injury-hit one for Cole but he was back to his best in 2007/08 – he reached
double figures in the scoring charts again, won the Chelsea Player of the
Year Award and played in the Champions League Final. Cole also scored home
and away against West Ham that season, refusing to celebrate his strike in
Chelsea's 4-0 win at Upton Park in March 2008. A knee injury kept Cole out
for the second half of the 2008/09 campaign and his final game for the Blues
was the FA Cup Final against Portsmouth in May 2010, Chelsea winning the
match 1-0. After seven years at Stamford Bridge in which he scored 40 goals
in 281 appearances and won three Premier League titles, three FA Cups, two
League Cups, two Community Shields and was a Champions League finalist, Cole
joined Roy Hodgson's Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer of 2010.
Earlier that summer, Cole had won the last of his 56 England caps at his
third World Cup – he had scored ten goals for his country.
After a difficult start to life on Merseyside, Cole spent the 2011/12 season
on loan at French side Lille but, after returning to Liverpool for the first
half of the following season, 31-year-old Joey returned to the Boleyn Ground
in early January 2013, signing for Sam Allardyce's Hammers on a free
transfer. He set up both goals on his second debut for the club as James
Collins scored twice in a 2-2 FA Cup third round draw with Manchester United
and scored himself in the 1-1 home draw with Q.P.R. and the 3-2 home defeat
to Tottenham.
Cole started the 2013/14 season with a bang, notching the Hammers' first
goal of the campaign in a 2-0 home win over Cardiff in August 2013 before
scoring in the 3-0 win over Fulham in November. His final goal for the
Hammers came in the 3-3 home draw with West Brom in late December 2013.
Cole's last appearance for West Ham came in the 2-0 defeat at Manchester
City in May 2014 and he left the club later that summer after his contract
expired, signing for Aston Villa. Cole had scored five goals in 37
appearances in his second spell in east London, taking his totals for the
Hammers to 18 goals in 187 matches.
Following a spell with Coventry, Cole, now 36, is currently playing for
Tampa Bay Rowdies in the USL, the second tier of the American soccer
pyramid.
Referee
Sunday's referee is Kevin Friend. The Leicester-based official has been
involved in top-flight matches since 2009 and took charge of the Hammers in
our historic 3-0 victory at Liverpool in August 2015. He sent off
Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho and West Ham's Mark Noble in that match at
Anfield, with the latter's dismissal rescinded on appeal.
Friend's Hammers appointments this season were in September for our 2-0 home
win over Huddersfield and, more recently, our 1-0 League Cup quarter-final
defeat at Arsenal in December. He also refereed our 1-0 home win over
Swansea last April. He is also remembered for the soft penalty he gifted
Hull in our 1-0 defeat at the KC Stadium in September 2013 when Joey O'Brien
was adjudged to have shoved Robbie Brady. Friend compounded the error by
later denying the Irons a clear penalty when Jake Livermore handled in the
area. Don't expect much from Friend in the way of handball decisions – he
also denied the Hammers a penalty in a match at Everton when Aaron
Cresswell's cross was handled by Seamus Coleman.
Possible line-ups
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is without David Luiz and Ethan Ampadu but
Thibaut Courtois, Davide Zappacosta, Ross Barkley and Pedro could all
return. The Blues could suffer back-to-back league defeats at Stamford
Bridge for the first time since November 2011.
David Moyes has yet to win a Premier League game away to Chelsea, drawing
six and losing eight of 14 top-flight matches at Stamford Bridge. The Scot
is without Sam Byram, Winston Reid, James Collins, Pedro Obiang, Michail
Antonio and Andy Carroll. Argentine midfielder Manuel Lanzini is a major
doubt but Chicharito should be available. A win would not just see West
Ham's first at Stamford Bridge since this preview's featured match in
September 2002 but would also complete the club's first league double over
Chelsea since that 2002/03 season.
Looking ahead to our next match against Stoke, Potters midfielder Joe Allen
is one yellow card away from missing the match in east London – Stoke host
Tottenham today.
Possible Chelsea XI: Courtois; Rudiger, Azpilicueta, Christensen; Moses,
Kante, Fabregas, Alonso; Willian, Hazard; Morata.
Possible West Ham United XI: Hart; Zabaleta, Rice, Ogbonna, Cresswell,
Masuaku; Fernandes, Kouyate, Noble, Mario; Arnautovic.
Enjoy the game – Up The Hammers!
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Jose Mourinho labelled Marko Arnautovic childish and Gary Neville said the
Austrian thinks he is Cristiano Ronaldo… but the £24m 'flop' has turned into
a West Ham talisman
Marko Arnautovic has become crucial for West Ham after a poor start in
London
He cost a club record £24million, but failed to score or assist under Slaven
Bilic
Under David Moyes, Arnautovic has nine goals and three assists in 16 starts
By Kieran Gill for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 08:06, 7 April 2018 | UPDATED: 08:06, 7 April 2018
In David Moyes' first week as West Ham manager, one of his first orders of
business was to schedule a meeting with floundering Marko Arnautovic at
their Rush Green training ground. The Austria international may have thought
it would be something of a get-to-you-know with the new gaffer but instead,
it came closer to a telling off. Moyes told him he has 'power', 'pace', all
the tools to frighten defenders and yet he had not been using them under
Slaven Bilic, and then came the warning. Arnautovic was told that, just
because he cost a club record £24million, he was not immune to being
benched. Five months on from that meeting, he is now the first name on the
team sheet. The statistics display the difference. Under Bilic, he failed to
score a single goal or achieve an assist. Under Moyes, he has now scored
nine and has set up three in 16 starts. The 28-year-old's start to life at
the London Stadium suggested it was not money well spent. Given the scrutiny
on West Ham, supporters did not want to wait for their star signing to come
good.
ARNAUTOVIC SPRINTS PER 90 MINUTES
Under Slaven Bilic: 50.5
Under David Moyes: 62.7
DISTANCE RUN PER 90 MINUTES
Under Slaven Bilic: 10.3km
Under David Moyes: 10.4km
A few quick-to-judge fans branded him a 'flop' while Gary Neville said in
October: 'That guy is [Cristiano] Ronaldo in his own mind. That's the
problem. He thinks he is better than he is.' His first few months in claret
and blue were no picnic but now, he is starting to perform like a player
worthy of his price tag. Maybe not Ronaldo-esque, but enough to keep West
Ham heads above water in the Premier League at least. Jose Mourinho once
described Arnautovic as having the 'attitude of a child' after their time
together at Inter Milan. He was even said to be more badly behaved than
Mario Balotelli. The West Ham attacker can still show signs of immaturity,
such as his reckless red card against Southampton at the start of this
season for a dangerous and deliberate elbow. Yet that was under Bilic. Under
Moyes, Arnautovic appears to have channelled his anger. Bilic was sacked on
November 6, having had almost four months to work with the Austrian. In that
time, the £24m signing from Stoke did not contribute in front of goal. Not
at all. Arnautovic's first strike for the club did not arrive until December
9 but it led to a 1-0 win over Chelsea at the London Stadium.
ARNAUTOVIC STATS
Under Slaven Bilic: 0 goals, 0 assists, 0% conversion rate
Under David Moyes: 9 goals, 3 assists, 19.57% conversion rate
SHOTS PER GAME
Under Slaven Bilic: 0.71 shots (0.14 on target)
Under David Moyes: 2.71 shots (1.47 on target)
Now on Sunday, he will travel to Stamford Bridge in the greatest form of his
career, hoping to repeat the trick and force Antonio Conte further against
the ropes.
When Moyes was appointed, he promised to take no prisoners. 'If you do not
run, you do not play,' the new West Ham manager warned at his very first
press conference. Arnautovic listened. Under Bilic, he averaged 51 sprints a
game and was constantly glued to the left wing. Under Moyes, he is averaging
63 and has license to drift inside. Naturally, it means he is now covering
more ground as he currently averages a distance of 10.4km and has gone from
attempting one dribble to at least three a game. Moyes took the leash off
Arnautovic, who may have started to feel like a caged animal under Bilic.
That is what West Ham's boss hinted on Friday. 'He didn't have much
confidence when I arrived in November,' Moyes said. 'He has a great ability,
is powerful, quick, got a level of arrogance and self-belief on the pitch.'
The Scot said he puts Arnautovic's turnaround down to 'tough love' and it
has worked. Under Bilic then Moyes, his shots per game have gone from 0.71
to 2.71, and those on target from 0.14 to 1.47. Arnautovic may have driven
Mourinho mad in Italy and did little to impress the likes of Neville at
first, but he is now West Ham's talisman and leading their fight for
survival.
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Marcus Browne can replace Michail Antonio to solve David Moyes' problems and
secure survival the West Ham way
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United still have some work to do to secure their Premier League
survival and losing Michail Antonio for the rest of the season is a big
blow. West Ham were dragged back into the thick of the relegation battle
after a string of woeful performances and results. That culminated in pitch
invasions and protests from fans against the board over the way the club is
run and what they feel are broken promises over transfer spending, ambition
and the controversial move to the London Stadium. But what a difference a
week has made for David Moyes after they turned in one of their best
performances for two seasons to see off relegation rivals Southampton 3-0
last time out. They say never change a winning team but Moyes has no choice
for the trip to wounded Chelsea on Sunday with key man Michail Antonio ruled
out for the season. Moyes has already bemoaned the lack of pace at his
disposal in the West Ham squad as one of his biggest issues when it comes to
grinding out the wins needed to secure survival. And now he will have to
make do without one of his quickest stars after Antonio's injury and with
some work still to do to get the points on the board to stay up. But the
answer to Moyes' problems could be right under his nose in the shape of
young star Marcus Browne. The winger impressed once again for the club's
Under 23s in Thursday night's win over Manchester City scoring a wonder
free-kick in a 1-0 win.
Browne has tasted first team action before in Europa League qualifying under
Slaven Bilic and is blessed with electric pace and skill but suffered a
setback in his progress due to injury. He has been in superb form since
returning to the fold this season, though, and his stunning free-kick and
all round man of the match display against City has Hammers fans purring and
calling for him to be given a first team chance. Antonio's injury could be
the perfect chance for Browne and given the club's proud history of
promoting young talent, Moyes should look to youth in line with the West Ham
way.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Marko Arnautovic has already done plenty to help West Ham United's quest to
preserve Premier League status. But the in-form centre forward's work is far
from done and the Hammers' battle for survival is far from over. The
Austrian has scored nine goals and assisted three more in his last 13
Premier League appearances. The first of those goals came in a 1-0 home win
over Chelsea in early December, and Arnautovic will take aim at the Blues
again in Sunday's reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge. "We are not safe yet
but since I scored my first goal against Chelsea my season started to be
great and I have tried to do everything to help the team and of course to
score some goals, that's the most important thing," observed the No7, who
scored two in a 3-0 victory over Southampton last time out.
"First of all [our aim is] to get a clean sheet and then it's up to us up
front to score goals and in some games we did it and some games we didn't,
but I'm not very happy where we are now. "After this win [over Southampton]
we are comfortable but we are not safe and I haven't yet saved West Ham, but
I will try to save us of course."
When West Ham welcomed Chelsea to London Stadium four months ago, Antonio
Conte's men had won six out of seven in the Premier League, while the
Hammers were yet to win under David Moyes and had lost five out of their own
previous seven top-flight matches. The odds were stacked against the hosts
but, thanks in large part to Arnautovic, they overcame them to secure a
landmark victory. The striker is eyeing a repeat performance on Sunday. "It
was a hard game at the time. Chelsea were in a good run when we beat them
but I think we did a good job all over the part of the pitch and that's why
I think we won the game, because we believed and we worked hard and we need
to do that again too. "It's never going to be an easy game as Chelsea is a
top side and we know there are world-class football players in this team,
but we are going there to try and take something out of this game and in the
Premier League you never know. You can win lots of games then you can lose a
lot of games. "Everybody is of course feeling that Chelsea are going to beat
us but we are going to try to take something out of the game, but it won't
be easy and we're aware of that."
Arnautovic's form and confidence have clearly taken a massive upturn since
that win over Chelsea, and since Moyes' appointment as manager. From the
very start, the Scot has publicly called on the talented forward to put in
the effort to enable him to get the most out of his ability. Arnautovic has
responded and is now reaping the considerable rewards. "The manager said
'You need to work hard and run hard otherwise you won't play' and, when he
said this to me, I was aware of that. "I'm a player who always wants to play
and I think I did the job that he wanted from me, but it's not over now. We
still have seven games and it's going to be hard and difficult as we still
have some top teams coming to us and we have to go to Chelsea and Arsenal so
it's not over. "We have to work hard, run hard, stay compact, stay as a team
and then when we believe in ourselves then we can win games."
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Moyes: 40 points, Arnautovic, Chelsea and the importance of home support
WHUFC.com
David Moyes was in positive mood as he sat down to talk to the media ahead
of Sunday's Premier League trip to Chelsea. The West Ham United manager was
asked how many points his team need to secure their safety, about Marko
Arnautovic's contribution, Chelsea's form and the importance of having four
home matches still to play.
Here is what he had to say…
Beating Southampton only got us three points and at the moment we're not
safe yet, so what I think it got us was three really important points, but
we're keeping our focus as we've not got enough points to be safe yet. We
have to pick up more. The next game is Chelsea and we need to try and do
something more against them and try to pick up some points against them. It
was a really big victory for us against Southampton, for the team, for the
Club, and I think for everybody it gave us all a boost. More importantly, it
was the type of performance we gave as well. It was an emphatic performance
in the first half which got us the goals and we went on and it gave us the
chance to go on and win the game quite well. I'm always basing myself on the
fact that 40 points is roughly where you need to get to. It's really
difficult to work out what the points tally will be this year, but hopefully
it won't take as much as that, but if I am thinking it's going to take 40
for me, it is a long way to go for the teams below us as well, if that's the
case. We need our minds focused on winning and picking up another seven or
eight points if we can between now and the end of the season.
Marko has been a big team player for us
Marko Arnautovic has become an important player for us, but I don't
necessarily think that down to anything I've done, but rather that Marko has
done. I think he's always had the ability, as people will tell you who
watched Stoke City for years and his career before that as well, which is
why he was at so many big clubs. We've just given him a licence to go and
show what he can do, but also with the instructions that he has got to be a
big team player as well and he has done that. He has shown individual
qualities with his goalscoring and his finishing but, when we've needed him
to work for the team and do the jobs required, he's been good at it and he's
helped us. He's a really important member of the team just now and he'll
feel good about that because he's the sort of player who needs that status.
Can lightning strike twice? I hope so!
We're playing the current Premier League champions on Sunday and I really
hope West Ham can pick up the points and move up the league. We beat Chelsea
at home in December and I hope lightning can strike twice and we can do it
again. I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with
some excellent players and, up until Manchester City win the league, they
are the champions. We'll go there and give them great respect but obviously
go there with a game-plan to get a result and bring some points back here to
West Ham. Chelsea might not win the title this season but, as a top club,
they have to win all their games. It's part of their job, they have to win,
so don't think for a minute that they will switch off. They won't. We have
to hope we catch them on an off-day and we perform well, like we did in our
home game against them. If we can do that again, I hope we can give them a
really good game.
The London Stadium crowd can inspire us to safety
Psychologically, it's massively important to be in control of our own
destiny because we want to be the ones winning our own games and not being
reliant on other results. Don't get me wrong, I think everyone in the bottom
ten wants the other results to go their way, and we're no different. But we
do know that if we win our games, especially our home games, where the crowd
have been fans have been fantastic and have helped us, we will stay up.
We've got Stoke City next weekend, then Manchester City, Manchester United
and Everton all at home and I'm hopeful the crowd and everyone associated
with the Club will play their part in getting us over the line.
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Team news: Surgery for Antonio, Lanzini a doubt and Chicharito returns
WHUFC.com
David Moyes has confirmed that Michail Antonio will undergo season-ending
surgery with the intention of ending his long-term hamstring problems. The
West Ham United winger initially suffered an injury in the vital home
victory over Swansea City in April 2017 but, after recovering in time for
the second game of the current Premier League season, Antonio has missed a
further nine matches with rib and calf issues. Last Saturday, he pulled up
after attempting a long-range shot and was forced off, clearly distraught,
and the manager as now revealed that his campaign is over. "Michail is out
for the season. He's going to have an operation sometime this week on his
hamstring, so the biggest thing now is to get him ready for the start of
next season and get him sorted if we can. "He's a big miss for us because
he's someone that we need. He's got great strength and pace and we'll miss
him between now and the end of the season. "They tell me last season he had
very few injuries, then he picked up an injury toward the end of last season
on his hamstring and he's never really recovered from that. In the short
time I've been here, he's had a few pretty bad injuries. "Look, it is what
it is and we have to get on with it. He's a miss for us, and we just have to
hope that we can get him back for the start of next year."
On a more positive note, Moyes confirmed Manuel Lanzini is back on the
training pitch after suffering a knee injury while on international duty
with Argentina and there is a chance he could be in the matchday squad for
Sunday's Premier League fixture at Chelsea. "Manu is back running, but he
was running last week. He's got a medial ligament injury which affects his
turning and twisting. He's able to run in straight lines at the moment. "I'm
hoping for an update on Saturday to see how he is, so I wouldn't completely
rule him out, but at the moment I'd say he's a doubt."
Meanwhile, Chicharito has recovered from the illness which ruled him out of
last Saturday's win over Southampton, while James Collins has overcome his
own hamstring injury and is set to return to full training next week and
should be available to face Stoke City on Monday 16 April. Andy Carroll
(foot), Sam Byram (ankle), Winston Reid and Pedro Obiang (both knee) are
unavailable for Sunday's trip to Stamford Bridge.
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Hart: We've got to stick together and play for each other at Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Joe Hart wants West Ham United give the Club's supporters another reason to
cheer when they take on Chelsea on Sunday. The Hammers head to Stamford
Bridge eager to build on their morale-boosting 3-0 win over Southampton last
weekend – a victory that was inspired by a vociferous London Stadium crowd.
And Hart is hoping the backing of a 3,000-strong Claret and Blue Army in
west London will give the players the boost needed to secure a positive
result against the reigning Premier League champions, who were beaten at
home by Tottenham Hotspur last time out. "We're really together as a group,"
said the England goalkeeper, who has kept six clean sheets in 17 career
appearances against the Blues. "We want to unite the fans as best we can. At
the same time, we've got to stick together and play for each other and that
will translate to the fans and I'm sure they'll appreciate that. "We've got
to concentrate on us on Sunday. If we perform to the best of our ability and
give a good account of themselves, you never know. Chelsea will play as they
do and prepare as they prepare, and they're a top-quality team who won the
league last year and a couple of results aren't going to affect them too
badly. "As I said, I think we've just got to look after us and give a good
account of ourselves."
Hart himself was part of a solid defensive performance against Southampton
last time out, helping the Hammers to keep a welcome clean sheet after the
team had conceded eleven goals in its previous three Premier League matches.
The experienced stopper did not have a save to make thanks to the
outstanding performances of the likes of Angelo Ogbonna and Declan Rice,
among others. At the other end of the pitch, Joao Mario and Marko Arnautovic
were clinical, putting West Ham into a two-goal lead and all but killing off
the Saints' challenge within 17 minutes. "We made a good start and we built
on it. It was nice to score the goals when we were on top because, for all
the situations we've been in, I think we've always been quite even in games
and the first goal has been key for us, so it was nice to get it. "That
first goal [against Southampton] was so important for both teams and, as it
happened, we felt Southampton's weakness and we built on it.
"The boys defended really well and it was nice to be behind. I've just got
to do my job for the team as best I can. It's not all about saving the ball,
you've got to be in the best position you can be in and it was down to all
the boys that we got the result."
While he was protected superbly, Hart was called into action to deal with a
number of set pieces, which he did calmly and effectively. With England
manager Gareth Southgate watching on, the No25 certainly did his 2018 FIFA
World Cup hopes no harm, and Hart himself is naturally desperate to be part
of the Three Lions squad in Russia. "I love being part of that England squad
and that'll never change. Being away with them, I enjoy all the time, but I
also enjoy working here with Woodsy, Adrian and the young 'keepers. "I enjoy
football, so having the opportunity to train and be part of things, whether
that be with West Ham or England, is something that makes me happy."
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Sir Trevor Brooking's one and only West Ham hat-trick 50 years on
WHUFC.com
Sir Trevor Brooking did not know it at the time, but Saturday 6 April 1968
was a unique day in his long and illustrious West Ham United career. Then
just 19, Brooking was in his first season as a member of Ron Greenwood's
senior squad, having made his First Division debut at Burnley the previous
August. Even at such a tender age, the young Brooking's versatile attacking
talents saw Greenwood deploy him in a variety of attacking roles, starting
out on the left side of midfield before moving into a central role in
support of striker Geoff Hurst. However, with the Hammers floundering in
18th place, without a win in five league matches and Hurst absent injured
for the visit of Newcastle United to the Boleyn Ground, Greenwood deployed
the teenager as his centre forward.
Rather than shrink under the massive pressure of leading his struggling team
to victory, Brooking did just that, scoring the only hat-trick of his
professional career as West Ham thrashed the Magpies 5-0. Brian Dear laid on
the first before half-time, which the youngster gleefully smashed into the
net from six yards after Martin Peters had challenged Newcastle goalkeeper
Gordon Marshall. And the home side, whose performance was described as
'stylish' and 'elegant' by The Observer's John Lindsay, would add four more
goals after the break, two from John Sissons and, of course, two more from
the irrepressible Brooking to complete a historic personal treble. "I wore
the No 9 shirt and played centre forward because Geoff Hurst was injured,"
recalled the hat-trick hero himself. "We won 5-0 and I scored a hat-trick.
It might have been one with each foot and a header. "All the players signed
the ball and I put it on top of my Mum and Dad's television set. It sat
there throughout my career. Gradually, all the names faded. "It was my first
season in the team and you think there will be a few more to come but I
never did score another hat-trick."
West Ham, whose starting XI that afternoon also included Billy Bonds, Frank
Lampard, Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Ron Boyce and Harry Redknapp, would
follow up this important win with victories over Nottingham Forest,
Liverpool and Sheffield United to finish the season in 12th place.
Amazingly, though, Brooking's hat-trick were his final goals of the 1967/68
season.
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2018/19 Season Ticket renewal prices frozen!
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Season Ticket renewals are now open for the 2018/19 season!
As a reward for the outstanding loyalty and support from our most loyal
fans, Season Ticket Holders in Bands 1-4 – including Accessibility Seats –
and 1966 Seats have had their prices frozen for the second consecutive year.
Band 5 Season Ticket prices have also been frozen, subject to renewing on a
two-year term. Supporters in Band 5 have until 5pm on Friday 27 April to
secure a two-year Season Ticket.
Alternatively, Season Ticket Holders in Band 5 have the option to renew for
one season, but this will be subject to a small price increase. Adult prices
will increase from £289 to £320 and Over-65s and Under-21s will increase
from £145 to £160. Under-16 Band 5 Season Tickets will be frozen at £99 for
2018/19. For full pricing details, click here.
A Season Ticket remains by far the cheapest way to enjoy watching the
Hammers in action, with Adults saving over £400 per season compared to
purchasing match-by-match, while Under-16s can save more than £600 over the
course of the campaign.
Season Ticket Holders also enjoy exclusive benefits, including having the
first opportunity to buy tickets for away matches, discounts instore and
online and on coach travel, and invitations to exclusive events.
If you wish to relocate your seat, we advise that you renew your existing
seat at the earliest possible opportunity. Relocations will be prioritised
based on how early you renew, to enable relocation windows to be scheduled
accordingly.
Monthly Payment Plan
To help Season Ticket Holders pay for their seats, the Club has teamed up
with V12 Season Ticket Finance to offer four and ten-month payment plans*.
The deadline for payment plan applications is Friday 4 May. For full
details, click here.
The deadline to secure your seat for next season is 5pm on Friday 1 June.
After this date, any Season Ticket seat which has not been renewed will be
made available to supporters on the Waiting List from Monday 11 June.
Season Ticket Holders wishing to relocate to new seats will be able to do so
from Monday 4 June until Saturday 9 June, with relocations prioritised by
renewal date.
Home Cup Scheme
By joining you will automatically be allocated your Season Ticket seat for
all home cup games. Once you have renewed your Season Ticket, you can join
at any time online via your eTicketing account.
*West Ham United Football Club Limited is registered in England and Wales
00066516. Registered office: London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
London, E20 2ST. West Ham United Football Club Limited acts as a credit
broker and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as
V12 Retail Finance. West Ham United Football Club Limited is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our registration number is
728632. Credit provided subject to age and status.
Season Ticket Waiting List
If you are not a Season Ticket Holder, you can put yourself in the best
position to watch the Hammers live every week by joining the Season Ticket
Waiting List.
With Season Tickets sold out for the last two seasons, joining the Waiting
List is your only way to secure a Season Ticket. It costs just £10, which
will be redeemable against your future Season Ticket purchase.
You will get priority on any Season Tickets not renewed in order of the date
you joined - so the sooner you join, the better your priority.
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2018/19 Season Tickets - Frequently Asked Questions
WHUFC.com
When is the deadline for renewing Season Tickets for 2018/19?
All Season Ticket renewals must be processed by 5pm on Friday 1 June 2018 to
guarantee your seat for 2018/19.
What are the prices for renewal for 2018/19?
Season Ticket renewal prices have been frozen for 1966 Seats, Band 1, Band
2, Band 3 and Band 4. Band 5 Season Tickets have a price freeze option on a
two-year term (Two payments of £289 for 2018/19 and 2019/20). The rate for
any Adult Band 5 Season Ticket Holders wishing to renew for just one season
is £320. All Season Tickets are subject to a £2 Booking Fee.
What payment methods are taken?
Season Tickets can be renewed using Debit or Credit Card (including Amex),
Cash, Club Cash or four or ten-month payment plans*.
How and when can I pay?
You can pay online via eTicketing 24 hours a day. Alternatively, you can
renew by telephone on 0333 030 1966 or visit the London Stadium Ticket
Office in person between 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday. The Call Centre will
also be open until 7pm on Thursdays throughout May 2018 and will also be
open 9am-5pm on Bank Holiday Monday 28 May.
Can I split payments between different methods?
Payments can be split between Club Cash and Debit or Credit Card (including
Amex). Prior to Monday 7 May, to split payments, please call us on 0333 030
1966. From 11am on Monday 7 May, you will be able to split the payment
online via eTicketing.
What payment plan* options are available?
You can apply to pay by monthly instalments via our partner V12 Season
Ticket Finance*, with the following options available:
Ten-month plan – This plan offers a low 6% arrangement fee that will be
added to the first instalment.
Four-month plan – Season ticket renewal price will be divided into four
equal payments, with a £30 arrangement fee added to the first instalment.
The first instalment will be due on each option 30 days after acceptance.
To pay using a monthly payment plan, simply select Pay By Instalments at
checkout stage when renewing online at eticketing.co.uk/WHUFC
Applications can also be made in person or over the phone. Please have
details for Employment and Home addresses covering the last six years and
current bank details for a credit check. The deadline to apply for a payment
plan online is Friday 4 May.
What is Club Cash?
Club Cash can be generated by the listing and subsequent selling of your
Season Ticket seat on our Ticket Exchange system for matches you cannot
attend, subject to the match being sold out and Ticket Exchange being
activated. The seat must sell for you to receive Club Cash. Club Cash
balances can be used fully or partly against Season Ticket renewals or on
additional Home match tickets, upgrades and on retail items instore and
online.
When will my Club Cash expire?
Balances expire on 31 May of each year following that season, beginning on
31 May 2018.
What happens if I sell my seat from the Ticket Exchange and earn Club Cash
after I renew?
Any Club Cash balances accrued via tickets being sold on the Ticket Exchange
after renewal but before 31 May will have these transactions reinstated to
your Club Cash balances over the summer prior to the first match of the
2018/19 season. (e.g. If you renew your Season Ticket on 21 April using an
£80 Club Cash balance. Following this, at the beginning of May, you then
list and sell your seat for a Home match on the Ticket Exchange for £30.
This Club Cash should expire on 31 May, however, due to having already
renewed your Season Ticket, this £30 will be reinstated to your account
before the start of the 2018/19 season).
What is the Home Cup Scheme?
By joining the Home Cup Scheme, you will automatically be allocated your
Season Ticket seat for all Home cup games, subject to seat availability. You
can join at any time via the 'My Account' section on the eTicketing page, or
by calling the Club by telephone. Some Season Ticket Holders may be
requested to move to alternate seats if the visiting club take up their full
cup ticket allocation. For every home cup game purchase, you will also earn
a Priority Point. Your seat for home cup matches will be allocated and
payment made prior to the match going on sale to Season Ticket Holders.
Please ensure that the card details you supply are correct and you have
sufficient funds to process each cup ticket. An incentive and prize will be
awarded to Home Cup Scheme members at the time of each cup fixture.
How can Away Season Ticket Holders renew for 2018/19?
Supporters currently on the Away Season Ticket Scheme have the first option
to remain on this for the 2018/19 season subject to the renewal of their
Home Season Ticket and contacting the Club to confirm the wish to remain an
Away Season Ticket Holder by Friday 1 June 2018. For those wanting to join
the Away Scheme for the 2018/19 season, a reserve list shall be set up to
join, based on date of Home Season Ticket renewal. Upon renewal, you should
contact the Club and request to join. Those who are successful will be
contacted in June. Those not successful at this point shall remain on the
reserve list for the season and will replace any Season Ticket Holders who
drop out the Away Season Ticket scheme. Positions will be limited and can be
closed at any point by the Club due to volume and availability. The Away
Season Ticket Scheme will then be reviewed ahead of the 2019/20 season.
How will seat relocation requests be handled for 2018/19?
Relocations will be based on time of renewal, subject to availability, and
commence from Monday 4 June. You must have renewed your Season Ticket to
apply for relocation. Windows will be set by the club, giving the supporter
a period during which they can call the Ticket Office to relocate. These
shall be communicated on the website and by email. Due to the large volume
of people who relocated in summer 2017, it is anticipated that there will be
extremely limited availability in popular areas, including the Lower Tier.
Any change of Band and resulting price increase brought about by relocation
will be required to be paid by Debit or Credit Card (including Amex) or Cash
at the time of relocation.
Can I go up/down a price Band at the time of relocation?
Subject to availability you can look at alternate price Bands. Any extra
payments will be required at the time of moving seats. Any change of Band
and resulting price increase brought about by relocation will be required to
be paid by Debit or Credit Card (including Amex) or Cash.
What if I don't renew for 2018/19?
The deadline for renewal is 5pm on Friday 1 June. Unsold Season Ticket
Holder seats will immediately be available in the relocation stage and,
following this, be made available to those on the Waiting List.
Can I buy additional Season Ticket seats for 2018/19?
If you wish to buy additional Season Ticket seats for 2018/19, please join
the Waiting List under the name of the potential new Season Ticket Holder.
Which matches are included in the Season Ticket?
All Home league matches, plus first option on Home cup tickets. You also
have access to many exclusive benefits which can be viewed here. [Insert
hyperlink].
Do the Club require proof of age for Concession Season Tickets?
Subject to the Club's Terms and Conditions, the Club reserves the right to
investigate and request proof of eligibility at their discretion.
How do I access London Stadium next season?
For the 2018/19 season, if you are renewing the same seat, your current
Season Card will be reactivated. PLEASE DO NOT THROW YOUR CARD AWAY. New or
replacement Season Cards are subject to a £10 administration fee. If you
chose to relocate to new seats, a new Season Card will be sent prior to the
start of the 2018/19 season.
Will I have the same Season Card as the 2017/18 season?
YES. So please keep your current Season Card.
Can the name be changed on the Season Ticket?
Name change requests are at the discretion of the Club and should be put in
writing to the Club by emailing ticketoffice@westhamunited.co.uk. Seats
cannot be downgraded. All successful name changes are subject to a £10
administration fee.
Who qualifies for Concession Season Tickets?
Age-related concessions are available for Over-65s, Under-21s and Under-16s.
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
Over-65s – Date of birth on or before 1 August 1953
Under-21s – Date of birth on or after 1 September 1997
Under-16s – Date of birth on or after 1 September 2002
Accessibility concessions are available if you are able to provide one of
the following:
Disability Living Allowance – Higher Rate Mobility or Care
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Enhanced Rate Mobility or Daily
Living, CVI/BD8
What are the details regarding the Band 5 two-year term option?
The Band 5 two-year term offer is available until 5pm on Friday 27 April.
The Band 5 two-year term option will ensure that your seat is purchased at a
fixed price for the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, meaning nothing will be
required to be paid for at the renewal stage in summer 2019. On purchasing
these seats, you will not qualify for a seat relocation for the 2018/19
season. Details regarding renewal and potential relocation for the 2020/21
season will be shared when full details for that season are announced.
How do I take the Band 5 option on just a one-year term?
Season Ticket Holders currently in Band 5 do have the option of renewing for
a one-year term, with a small price increase to £320 for Adults and £160 for
Over-65s and Under-21s. To renew on a one-year term, please call the Ticket
Office on 0333 030 1966.
*West Ham United Football Club Limited is registered in England and Wales
00066516. Registered office: London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
London, E20 2ST. West Ham United Football Club Limited acts as a credit
broker and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as
V12 Retail Finance. West Ham United Football Club Limited is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our registration number is
728632. Credit provided subject to age and status.
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Season Ticket renewals: Payment plan information
WHUFC.com
Season Ticket renewals: Payment plan information
West Ham United are offering Season Ticket Holders the chance to pay for
their seat for 2018/19 by four or ten monthly instalments*.
Supporters renewing for next season can apply to pay by monthly instalments
via one of two simple payment plans delivered with the Club's partner V12
Season Ticket Finance.
The following options are available:
Ten-month plan – This plan offers a low 6% arrangement fee that will be
added to the first instalment.
Four-month plan – Season ticket renewal price will be divided into four
equal payments, with a £30 arrangement fee added to the first instalment.
Click here for full payment plan pricing information
Season Ticket Holders wishing to renew for 2018/19 using a monthly payment
plan should simply select that option at checkout stage when renewing online
at eticketing.co.uk/WHUFC. Please note that a minimum total cost of £250
applies on all payment plans.
The deadline to apply for a payment plan is Friday 4 May. Your first payment
will be taken 30 days after your application has been processed.
RENEW YOUR SEASON TICKET NOW!
2018/19 SEASON TICKETS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
*West Ham United Football Club Limited is registered in England and Wales
00066516. Registered office: London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
London, E20 2ST. West Ham United Football Club Limited acts as a credit
broker and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as
V12 Retail Finance. West Ham United Football Club Limited is authorised and
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our registration number is
728632. Credit provided subject to age and status.
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West Ham United recognised for commitment to equality
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's commitment to promoting diversity and equality across the
Club and in our wider community has been formally recognised by the Premier
League. The Club is pleased to announce that the Premier League has awarded
it the Intermediate Equality Standard in recognition of a range of
initiatives and campaigns. The Hammers recently submitted its evidence from
the past two years to a Premier League panel made up of experts and are
delighted that their efforts have been recognised by this award.
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "Equality and diversity are
at the heart of West Ham United's values. We are committed to eliminating
discrimination and creating an environment in which everyone is not only
respected but valued. "Since our move we've invested more than £6m into
Newham and the surrounding Olympic boroughs, which has allowed us to work
hand-in-hand with a number of local charities, while our brilliant Disabled
Supporters Advisory Board makes a real difference to the matchday experience
for supporters with accessibility needs. "Since consulting with them, we've
been able to provide more free shuttle buses than any other club in the
Premier League and are training staff in disability awareness and BSL to
communicate in sign language – in fact, I'm proud to say I passed my own BSL
module 101 this week! "West Ham United pays all full and part-time staff
the London Living Wage, helping to address social inequality and our -9.76%
gender pay gap shows we take equal pay seriously. "We passionately believe
in a culture that embraces equality and values diversity, so we are thrilled
that our important work in this area has been recognised by the Premier
League."
Premier League Executive Director Bill Bush said: "The Premier League is
committed to tackling discrimination and promoting equality, and through the
Premier League Equality Standard encourages clubs to develop partnerships,
activities, and projects targeted at under-represented communities and
individuals. "West Ham United's achievement in attaining the Intermediate
level is testament to the hard work undertaken by the club and its
foundation over the last two years, and we look forward to seeing their
continued efforts as they work towards achieving the Advanced level."
Roisin Wood, CEO of Kick It Out, which provides support and advice to clubs
regarding best equality practice, said: "We're pleased to see West Ham
making progress in developing their equality practices and sending a clear
message that the club is welcome to everyone who supports zero tolerance to
discrimination, abusive conduct and exclusion."
The Club's achievements – as part of a three-year Equality Action Plan which
covers all areas of the business - were recognised by the Premier League's
independent assessment panel. They include:
The formation of the Disabled Supporters Association (DSAB) alongside the
existing Supporter Advisory Board (SAB), with representation from all
protected groups on the SAB. Both groups meet three times a year.
Increased provision of shuttle buses for both home and away supporters with
accessibility needs.
Up to 40 Supporter Liaison Officers (SLOs) on hand on matchday to assist
supporters at London Stadium.
A 47 per cent increase in matchday staff from BAME backgrounds.
A 16 per cent increase in female matchday staff.
The launch of a diversity campaign (We Are West Ham. United) – which has
reached more than a million fans online and via our stadium screens.
Official partnerships with six unique and diverse charities including
Blesma, Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK, Richard House Children's
Hospice and others
Regular engagement and project delivery with external campaign organisations
like Stonewall, Show Racism the Red Card, Kick it Out and Holocaust Memorial
Fund
Award-winning Foundation that delivers life changing opportunities to more
than 20,000 residents over 35 projects across education, employment, health,
inclusion and football development.
A comprehensive programme of equality training which ensures that all staff
receive training and senior staff attend bespoke themed training. For
example, mental-health awareness, disability awareness and unconscious bias
training
Having achieved the Intermediate Level award, the Club can now work towards
the Premier League's Equality Standard Advanced goal.
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Westley: Man City win was as good as I've seen us play!
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Terry Westley has hailed West Ham United U23s' 1-0 victory
away to Manchester City as the side's best performance of the season. A
stunning free-kick from Marcus Browne from 25 yards out in the first period
of Thursday's contest put the Irons on the road to an impressive win in
Manchester against a City team that, prior to the match, had won their last
three games. The overall quality of the performance from the Hammers was
impressive, something Westley was keen to note, with the Academy Director
delighted with how his side performed across the park. "That was possibly
our best performance all season," Westley proudly told whufc.com: "That was
Manchester City's best team that they could put out. We spoke to their staff
before the game and they thought that was the best team they've fielded all
season, so we knew how good we were going to have to be to stay with them."
He continued: "I have to say to both teams that it was a high-quality game.
In and out of possession, you have to be at your very best throughout the
whole 90 minutes, and we matched them. We scored a great free-kick through
Marcus Browne and the sum of our football was scintillating. "Sometimes you
can be very good with the ball, and not do the job off the ball. You can get
wow moments, but the game is 90 minutes long and you have to play when you
haven't got the ball. We saw that tonight in all of our players. I think it
took that tonight to match this team. We needed everyone at their best and
that was as good as I have seen us play."
Browne's stunning strike was the difference between the two teams on the
evening, but Westley feels each and every one of his side played to the best
of their ability in Thursday's win. Westley was aware that City were just a
spark of quality away from getting in the game, but is ultimately pleased
with a strong showing from his side. Westley added: "We said in the team
meeting beforehand that everyone had to do their job, and do it at their
very best, and I think we saw that right across the team. "Nathan Holland
in the first half absolutely tortured their right centre-back, so much so
that in the end they were forced to make a change. Trott made big saves,
Pask was immense at the back, but Tunji beside him was very, very good. We
were brave because we went and marked man-for-man, leaving Tunji on his own
at the back at times, with Pask stepping right into midfield. 'We were
dangerous on the counter attack and could have been three up inside 20
minutes, but they were just one moment away from getting back in the game.
We showed real resilience tonight and it was a terrific advert for U23
football. We're delighted to come out on top."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Browne: Man City free-kick is one of my best ever goals
WHUFC.com
Marcus Browne has named his winning free-kick against Manchester City for
the West Ham United U23s as one of his best ever goals. Browne was on hand
to power home a sensational free-kick from 25 yards in the first half of
Thursday's Premier League 2 contest, with the midfielder's moment of quality
the only difference between the Irons and the Citizens in his side's 1-0
victory. The 20-year-old has been practicing his set-pieces on the training
pitches and is now reaping the rewards for his extra effort, admitting the
goal is even more special for being the only finish of a close match between
two good sides. "Scoring a goal like that feels amazing," Browne told
whufc.com: "To be fair, every goal does, but the fact that this goal, and a
finish like that, was the only goal of the game made it super special. "It's
definitely up there as one of my best. It's not an easy strike to attempt
but I've been practicing them during training, anf thankfully that work has
paid off for me on this occasion."
The win for the Hammers ended a three-match winning run for City, and put
the Irons just a point behind Thursday's opponents, with Terry Westley's
side moving up to seventh in the league. Browne continued: "It was a
massive performance from the boys tonight. It wasn't easy at all because
City are a really good team, but everyone played their partt for us. We dug
in really deep and fought with everything we had to make sure we left with
the three points. "I spoke to the boys just before kick-off and told them
that the game wasn't going to be easy at all. We knew we were going to have
to work hard for each other and back each other up for 90 minutes. Everyone
played their part. We all stuck to the game plan really well and we got our
rewards because of it."
Having picked up a couple of disappointing results in 2018, and losing their
last match - a fixture against Chelsea at the beginning of March - Browne
admits the win away to City is a big boost to confidence for the Irons
heading into another tough game next Monday, away to Everton. "This is a
massive confidence booster for us as a team," Browne added: "We know we're a
good side and we're capable of beating anyone in the league, but the game on
Monday against Everton is going to be just as tough. "We need to recoup and
prepare as well as possible to give us the best chance of getting a good
result. We go into every match believing we can win so we'll be going to
Everton looking to come back with nothing other than the three points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Trott: I was really proud of my City performance
WHUFC.com
Nathan Trott expressed his pride after putting in a solid display between
the sticks to help West Ham United's U23 side to a 1-0 away victory against
Manchester City in Premier League 2. The Hammers travelled to City's
Football Academy on the back of three weeks without a fixture, but started
quickly in the north west and soon took the lead through Marcus Browne's
unstoppable free-kick from 25 yards. Trott denied the hosts on countless
occasions throughout the opening period before making a couple of crucial
stops in the second 45 too, holding onto a clean sheet and helping his team
achieve maximum points. The England U20 keeper was just one impressive
individual in a team full of terrific performances though, and he was
delighted for the whole squad at the final whistle. "I think everyone before
the game, we had a game plan that we stuck to and I think that everyone kind
of put 100 per cent effort into the game," he said. "It worked out at the
end.
"In that game you have to take your opportunities and we took our one
opportunity. We had more and we could have scored more, but we'll take the
goal and we defended really well throughout the whole game. "I was really
proud of my performance. This is what goalkeepers are supposed to do you
know; you're supposed to make these big saves in these big games and I think
in the season where we are now and where we want to be, three points was
really important so I was really pleased I could help the team out today."
Browne's free-kick – his second goal of the season – came ten minutes before
the break, and Trott revealed nobody was surprised to see the forward smash
the set-piece in off the inside of the post. "Browney works on his
free-kicks in training and I think that it game on the perfect day," the
stopper explained. "That's probably what got us the result today. "The whole
team are really close in training so when it comes in matches and we work
together like that, it's nothing strange and we know it's going to happen.
We have a game plan and it really worked out today. "It's another tough game
at Everton [on Monday]. We know that Everton are a really great team and I
think it will be another tough 90 minutes. Everyone needs to be prepared,
get rested and get ready to go again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea v West Ham United
SUN 08 APR 2018PREMIER LEAGUE
16:30
Venue: Stamford Bridge
TEAM NEWS
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois could make his comeback after recovering
from a hamstring injury. Pedro may also return from a minor problem but both
David Luiz and Ethan Ampadu are ruled out.
West Ham could again be without midfielder Manuel Lanzini, who is a major
doubt because of a knee injury. Defender James Collins may again miss out
with a hamstring problem, while a similar injury will keep winger Michail
Antonio out for the rest of the season. However, striker Javier Hernandez is
available after overcoming an illness.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
Guy Mowbray: "There'll be a sombre mood before kick-off, as Stamford Bridge
mourns the passing of a favourite son. "For many of my generation, Ray
Wilkins was the first Chelsea player we ever heard of. For anyone who knew
him, their world has lost - to use one of his own expressions - a smashing
fella. "The best tribute the current Chelsea side could then pay would be to
lift themselves to a (currently) rare win as their title defence fizzles out
tamely. "West Ham's need is even more pressing though, and they must start
with the belief that they can follow last week's vital victory against
Southampton with a first away to Chelsea for over 15 years. It's still a big
ask."
Twitter: @Guymowbray
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte on Ray Wilkins: "We are talking about a
really good person. I was lucky to know him and speak with him many times.
He was a legend for this club, an ambassador for football. "I think on
Sunday we must be ready to make a great memory to Ray."
West Ham manager David Moyes: "We're not safe yet. We need more points. Next
up is Chelsea and we need some points there. "It gave us all a boost to win
last weekend. It was an emphatic performance in the first half and it gave
us the chance to go on and win the game quite well. "I'm always basing
myself on the fact that 40 points is what we need to get to. "Hopefully it
won't take as much as that, but to get to 40 is a long way to go for the
teams below us. We need to focus on picking up seven or eight points
ourselves."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
The Hammers will be buoyed by their win over Saints last time out, but do I
think they have got enough to go to Stamford Bridge and come away unbeaten?
No, I don't.
Prediction: 2-0
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Chelsea are unbeaten in their last 11 Premier League home matches against
West Ham (W8, D3).
Antonio Conte's first game in charge of Chelsea was a 2-1 home win against
West Ham in August 2016.
The Hammers last won at Stamford Bridge in September 2002 when Paolo Di
Canio's late goal clinched a 3-2 victory.
A win would see West Ham complete a league double against Chelsea for the
first time since 2002-03, a season in which the Hammers were relegated.
Chelsea
Chelsea have lost five of their last seven Premier League games - as many
defeats as they suffered in total last season.
They could suffer back-to-back league defeats at Stamford Bridge for the
first time since November 2011 (against Arsenal and then Liverpool).
The Blues are two short of becoming the third club to score 1,700 Premier
League goals, after Manchester United (1,916) and Arsenal (1,756).
Alvaro Morata has scored in his last two league and cup games for Chelsea,
and will be hoping to score in three successive matches for the first time
since joining the Blues.
Eden Hazard has failed to score in 12 of his last 13 appearances at Stamford
Bridge in all competitions, with the only exception his two-goal haul
against West Brom on 12 February.
N'Golo Kante and Danny Drinkwater could both make their 100th appearance in
the Premier League.
West Ham United
The Hammers have lost all three of their Premier League games played on a
Sunday this season, conceding eight times in total and scoring just once.
West Ham have lost their last three Premier League away games. They last
lost four in a row between May and September 2016, a sequence which includes
a 2-1 defeat at Chelsea.
Defeat would be West Ham's 1,000th loss in the top flight.
David Moyes has yet to win a Premier League game away to Chelsea, drawing
six and losing eight of 14 top-flight matches at Stamford Bridge.
Moyes is winless in his last 29 away league games against 'big six'
opposition (D9, L20).
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 2-0 Probability of draw: 15%
Probability of home win: 78% Probability of away win: 7%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Liverpool that is used to predict the outcome of
football matches.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
OUR SWISS WONDER KID
AUTHOR: EXWHUEMPLOYEE. PUBLISHED: 6 APRIL 2018 AT 5:27PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
Written by Jake McMullan @JakeMcMullan1
We come off the back of an excellent result against Southampton. I will go
on record by saying that I don't think I've seen a worse performance all
season that that of the Saints against us but that being said I thought we
were superb and had them on the ropes from minute one. The crowd was
spectacular throughout and Saturday was evidence that this new stadium can
become home provided the performances on the pitch merit our full support.
I was highly nervous going into the game and I think I speak for almost
everyone when I say that my nerves weren't eased when Antonio, possibly our
best asset on the counter attack, went off injured. Up stepped Edimilson
Fernandes and he simply put, was nothing short of brilliant. Despite his
long term injury he looked to have a real spring in his step, with pace and
determination to win every second ball. Arnautovic, Rice, Masuaku and the
likes took the plaudits and understandably so, but for me, Fernandes stood
out the most. He dominated the midfield, gave us width, wasn't afraid to put
in a challenge and played a big part in the second goal. Additionally, the
passion he showed for the second goal demonstrates his real commitment for
the club.
I think people forget he is just 21 years of age (soon to be turning 22), he
was our most used substitute last season and was even trusted by Bilic to
fill in at left-wing back when both Cresswell and Masuaku were out. We cry
for Cullen to be given game time and understandably so as he's 'one of our
own', but for me personally, Fernandes is the far superior player. He may
have some years to develop into the finished article yet but he certainly
has huge potential.
Whether or not Fernandes is good enough for us to think about building a
team around him I don't know, but what he showed against Southampton was
that he's much more than just a central midfielder, he can cover the entire
pitch. Players like him can be pivotal to how a side functions. I personally
feel once he develops his end product (which most young players do over
time) he could turn into a top class midfielder.
West Ham have a potential Swiss wonder kid on their hands, and it's time he
starts being given the license to realise that potential.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
2018-19 season ticket prices unveiled
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
Season ticket prices for supporters in Bands 1-4 and the 1966 zone have been
frozen for the 2018/19 season. And those fans with season tickets in Band 5
can also take advantage of the price freeze - on condition that they sign a
TWO-YEAR agreement, effectively doubling their commitment, by Friday 27
April. In order to enjoy the benefits of the price freeze, season ticket
holders have until 5pm on Friday 1 June to renew after which time any seats
not allocated with be offered to those on the waiting list. Even though the
club claim to have in the region of 50,000 supporters on the list, which
based upon last year's uptake would take TEN years to clear, the club are
still accepting fresh applications. The cost to join the waiting list is £10
per supporter, but offers no guarantee of a season ticket.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham linked with former Man U star
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are hoping to lure former Manchester United midfielder Shinji
Kagawa back to the Premier League this summer, according to the latest
transfer speculation. The 29-year-old, who is currently enjoying a second
spell with Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga spent two years at Old
Trafford between 2012 and 2014 during which he made 57 appearances. And
having worked with Kagawa in the second of his two years in England, current
West Ham manager David Moyes - formerly manager of Manchester Utd - knows
the player better than many. Everton are also reported to have expressed
interest in signing the Japanese international, who has scored six times
this season for Die Schwarzgelben.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Champions statue to remain in Upton Park
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th April 2018
By: Staff Writer
The Champions statue at the junction of Barking Road and Green Street is to
remain in Upton Park - should Labour candidate Rokhsana Fiaz be elected as
the new Mayor of Newham. A local cabinet meeting at which the statue's
future was to be discussed has been cancelled after councillors agreed that
the statue would remain in situ for the foreseeable future - to the delight
of local campaigners, who have long argued that the sculpture should remain
at its original site. And Custom House councillor Fiaz - who is one of three
candidates and the hot favourite to replace outgoing Mayor Sir Robin Wales -
has pledged to keep the 16ft-high statue, created by Philip Jackson between
2001 and 2003 should she be placed in office. The election for the new Mayor
of Newham takes place on Thursday, 3 May. The Champions sculpture cost in
the region of £700,000 to build, more than half of which came from a
Government grant. The remaining costs were paid for by the Green Street
Single Regeneration Budget, the Arts Council for England, Arts & Business
and West Ham United. It was unveiled in April 2003 by the Duke of York,
Prince Andrew, who was joined at the opening ceremony by Geoff Hurst, Martin
Peters, Ray Wilson and Bobby Moore's widow Stephanie.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Michail Antonio to have surgery as Manuel Lanzini doubtful for West Ham at
Chelsea
Last Updated: 06/04/18 8:15pm
SSN
West Ham manager David Moyes has confirmed that forward Michail Antonio is
to have surgery and will miss the rest of the season. The Hammers may also
be without Manuel Lanzini for Sunday's important Sky Live London derby at
Chelsea - although Moyes is not prepared to rule him out yet. Antonio left
the pitch in tears after he was injured early on during the defeat of
Southampton last weekend. Moyes said: "He is going to have an operation
sometime this week on his hamstring and the biggest thing now is to get him
ready for the start of next season. "He is a big miss to us. He is someone
that we need, he has got great strength and pace. "He picked up a hamstring
injury at the end of last season and has never really recovered from it. In
the short time I have been here, he has had a few pretty bad injuries. "It
is what it is, we just hope we can get him back quickly for the start of
next year."
Lanzini has been out since the loss to Burnley on March 10 but his return
may not be far away. Moyes said: "He is back running and he was running last
week as well. "He has got a medial ligament injury, which is affecting his
twisting and turning. He is able to run in straight lines at the moment. "I
wouldn't completely rule him out but at the moment I would think he is a
doubt."
One player almost certain to feature on Sunday is Marko Arnautovic, who
impressed during the vital win over the Saints last weekend. "Since I have
been here, he has been excellent," said Moyes. "His goals have made a big
difference. "He is a massively important player for the team and he will
feel good about that. "I think he is a player who needs that status and he
has got the ability to be that type of player."
West Ham are five points clear of the drop after last week's win but Moyes
says they need to build on their 33-point haul. We are not safe yet," he
said. "Next up is Chelsea and we need some points there. "I'm always basing
myself on the fact that 40 points is what we need to get to. Hopefully it
won't take as much as that, but 40 is a long way to go for the teams below
us. "I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with some
excellent players. We'll go there and give them great respect but with a
gameplan to bring points back here."
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Chelsea v West Ham preview: Blues looking to bounce back live on Sky Sports
Watch live on Sky Sports Premier League or Main Event from 4.15pm on Sunday
Last Updated: 06/04/18 10:21pm
SSN
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back from defeat and continue their home
run against West Ham when the two meet live on Sky Sports on Sunday
afternoon.
The Blues were beaten 3-1 by Tottenham last weekend to extend the gap
between Chelsea in fifth and the top four to eight points. However, they
have not lost in 11 home Premier League games against the Hammers (W8 D3).
Antonio Conte admits it will be tough to make a top four surge with just
seven games remaining but the Italian still wants to see his players
battling until the end. "We have to try to do everything to continue to have
the possibility to fight for a place in the Champions League," he said. "It
won't be easy, we have to be realistic, but at the same time we have to give
all of ourselves. We must show pride, desire, will to fight until the end of
the season - this must be our target now. "I think that everyone has to show
pride, desire and a will to fight until the end of the season. This is very
important for me, for my staff and for the players, also because the
supporters deserve at least this." West Ham have already beaten Chelsea this
season though, winning the reverse fixture 1-0 in December and handing David
Moyes his first victory as Hammers boss. When asked if his side could do the
double, he said: "I hope lightning can strike twice and we can do it again.
I've seen Chelsea quite a lot and they're a really good team with some
excellent players. "We'll go there and give them great respect but with a
game-plan to bring points back here to West Ham. They have to win all their
games as a top club so don't think for a minute that they will switch off.
We have to hope we catch them on an off-day and we perform well. If we do, I
hope we can give them a really good game."
Team news
Chelsea could have both Thibaut Courtois and Pedro fit. The Belgian has been
missing with a hamstring injury, with the Spain forward absent due to an
unspecified knock, but the pair are in contention to return against the
Hammers.
West Ham's Michail Antonio will miss the game, as well as the rest of the
season, following his injury against Southampton last weekend. Moyes
confirmed Manuel Lanzini, who missed the game with the Saints, may feature.
Opta stats
Chelsea have lost five of their last seven Premier League games (W2). That's
as many as they lost in their entire title winning campaign of 2016-17 under
Antonio Conte.
The Blues haven't lost back-to-back home Premier League London derbies since
1999, when they lost 0-1 against West Ham in the March, before Kanu's
hat-trick saw Arsenal triumph 3-2 in the October.
David Moyes has won none of his 14 away Premier League games against
Chelsea, drawing six and losing eight.
Indeed, Moyes has won none of his last 29 away league games against 'big
six' sides (D9 L20), since a 2-1 win at Man City with Everton in December
2010.
Merson's prediction
It's a big game but I do fancy Chelsea. After last week, though West Ham had
a good result, it's a huge game for Chelsea. Chelsea have to put a show on
for their fans after last week against Tottenham. That was a disaster. Fair
play to West Ham last week, to turn up in major pressure. It's unbelievable.
For me, I just think this is a game too far for them. PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0
(5-1 with Sky Bet)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MATCH PREVIEW: CHELSEA V WEST HAM
By Dan Coker 7 Apr 2018 at 08:00
WTID
Stamford Bridge, 28th September 2002 – West Ham United's last victory at the
home of Chelsea. The Blues went into the match unbeaten from their first
seven league games of the season. Atomic Kitten were number one with 'The
Tide Is High' and Mel Gibson topped the UK box office in Signs as the
Hammers arrived in west London rooted to the bottom of the Premier League
having picked up just two points from their opening six league games.
The beleaguered Hammers were dealt a blow after just four minutes when
striker Frederic Kanoute suffered a groin injury and had to be replaced by
Jermain Defoe – Kanoute would not play again until Boxing Day, his absence
playing a big part in the Hammers' struggles in 2002/03. Despite this
setback, the Hammers impressed in the opening 20 minutes in front of 38,929
before an irresponsible and unnecessary scissor challenge by Tomas Repka saw
Claudio Ranieri's Chelsea win a free-kick wide on the left and the Czech
defender go into the book. Bolo Zenden's delivery seemed innocuous enough
until referee Mike Dean adjudged former Blues left-back Scott Minto to have
held back Robert Huth and a penalty was awarded. Chelsea skipper Jimmy Floyd
Hasselbaink made no mistake, sending David James the wrong way from the spot
with 21 minutes played.
Glenn Roeder's Hammers equalised five minutes before half-time. Paolo Di
Canio's corner was knocked on by Trevor Sinclair into the path of Steve
Lomas, the Ulsterman's shot was parried by Carlo Cudicini but Defoe reacted
quickest to turn the ball into the net.
The second half saw Di Canio take centre stage – three minutes into the
second half, the Italian picked the ball up wide on the right from Sebastian
Schemmel's throw-in, cut inside, flicked the ball up with his right foot
before hammering an unstoppable left-foot volley beyond the despairing dive
of his countryman Cudicini. Chelsea's equaliser arrived on 74 minutes,
future Hammers manager Gianfranco Zola coming off the bench to curl a
trademark free-kick into the corner of James' goal after, this time, a clear
foul by Minto.
It was Di Canio who had the last word though, with six minutes remaining –
James' long free-kick was poorly defended by the Blues backline and the ball
broke for Di Canio at a tight angle to the left of Cudicini's goal, the
Hammers captain finding the tiniest of gaps at the near post to restore the
Irons' lead and claim West Ham's first win of the season. My video below
contains all the goals from this London derby, as well as interviews with
manager Roeder and midfielder Lomas.
The Hammers, of course, went on to be relegated in 18th place that season
while Chelsea ended up in fourth. Joe Cole was voted Hammer of the Year,
with Defoe runner-up. Defoe was also the Irons' top scorer that season with
11 goals in 42 appearances. Manchester United won the league and Arsenal won
the FA Cup.
Chelsea: Carlo Cudicini, Mario Melchiot, Robert Huth, William Gallas, Bolo
Zenden (Gianfranco Zola), Jesper Gronkjaer, Jody Morris, Frank Lampard,
Mario Stanic, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Eidur Gudjohnsen.
West Ham United: David James, Sebastian Schemmel, Tomas Repka, Gary Breen,
Scott Minto, Trevor Sinclair, Steve Lomas, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole,
Frederic Kanoute (Jermain Defoe), Paolo Di Canio (Edouard Cisse).
Club Connections
A decent number of players have represented both West Ham United and
Chelsea. Victor Moses spent the 2015/16 season on loan with the Hammers and
is now proving a key player for Antonio Conte's Blues. Others to have worn
the colours of both clubs include:
Goalkeepers: Craig Forrest and Harry Medhurst.
Defenders: Tal Ben Haim, Scott Minto, Wayne Bridge, Ian Pearce, Joe Kirkup,
Glen Johnson and Jon Harley.
Midfielders: Bill Jackson, Frank Lampard Junior, Andy Malcolm, Syd Bishop,
Peter Brabrook, Alan Dickens, George Horn, Eric Parsons, Robert Bush, Scott
Parker, Yossi Benayoun, Jim Frost and John Sissons.
Strikers: David Speedie, Len Goulden, Billy Bridgeman, Demba Ba, Joe Payne,
Clive Allen, George Hilsdon, Carlton Cole, Billy Brown, Jimmy Greaves, Pop
Robson, Billy Williams, Ron Tindall and Bob Deacon.
Bobby Gould played for West Ham and went on to be assistant and caretaker
manager of Chelsea. Ron Greenwood and Gianfranco Zola played for Chelsea and
managed West Ham, while Sir Geoff Hurst and Dave Sexton both played for the
Hammers and managed the Blues. Avram Grant has managed both clubs.
Today's focus though is on an Academy graduate who had two spells at Upton
Park and spent seven years at Stamford Bridge. Joe Cole was born in
Paddington on the 8th November 1981 and was a prodigious young talent who
was linked with a £10m move to Manchester United before he'd even made his
professional debut. Likened to Paul Gascoigne, Cole made his debut at the
age of 17 in January 1999 in a 1-1 FA Cup draw at home against Swansea; his
league debut arrived eight days later in a 4-1 defeat at Old Trafford. Cole
was a key figure in the Hammers' FA Youth Cup winning team in 1999 and also
played his part in the senior team's InterToto Cup success later that
summer. His first goal for the club came in a 3-2 League Cup win at
Birmingham in November 1999 while his first league strike came in the 5-4
win over Bradford in February 2000.
Cole scored five goals in 2000/01, including one in the 3-0 win at Coventry
and strikes in the 1-1 home draws with Bradford and Coventry. He also
notched crucial goals in the 3-1 home win over Derby and 3-0 home victory
over Southampton as the under-performing Hammers secured their survival in
the top flight the weekend before Harry Redknapp's departure.
Cole made his England debut in May 2001 and scored his first goal under new
Hammers manager Glenn Roeder in the 3-0 FA Cup third round win at
Macclesfield in January 2002. The skilful midfielder was part of England's
2002 World Cup squad and got his 2002/03 campaign off to a flyer, scoring
from distance to give the Irons the lead against champions Arsenal only for
the Gunners to eventually claim a 2-2 draw at Upton Park. The season was a
turbulent one, with Cole one of the few players to emerge with credit from a
campaign which would end in relegation. Joey also scored in the 2-1 home
defeat to Birmingham, the 2-2 draw at Middlesbrough, the 3-2 FA Cup third
round home win over Nottingham Forest and the 2-2 home draw with Newcastle.
He was named captain by Roeder in January 2003 and was voted Hammer of the
Year by the club's supporters at the season's end.
The 21-year-old Cole left West Ham United in the summer of 2003 to sign for
Chelsea in a £6.6m deal, having scored 13 goals in 150 appearances for the
Hammers. He made his debut for the Blues as a substitute a week after
signing for the club in a Champions League qualifier away to MSK Zilina and
scored his first goal in October 2003 in a League Cup tie against Notts
County. His first league strike in a Chelsea shirt came in a 2-1 defeat at
Aston Villa in December 2003. Cole became a regular in Jose Mourinho's
2004/05 Premier League title-winning team, scoring nine goals in all
competitions.
2005/06 saw Cole score a career-high 11 goals in a season in all
competitions, earning himself a place in the PFA Team of the Year as Chelsea
retained their Premier League title. The following campaign was an
injury-hit one for Cole but he was back to his best in 2007/08 – he reached
double figures in the scoring charts again, won the Chelsea Player of the
Year Award and played in the Champions League Final. Cole also scored home
and away against West Ham that season, refusing to celebrate his strike in
Chelsea's 4-0 win at Upton Park in March 2008. A knee injury kept Cole out
for the second half of the 2008/09 campaign and his final game for the Blues
was the FA Cup Final against Portsmouth in May 2010, Chelsea winning the
match 1-0. After seven years at Stamford Bridge in which he scored 40 goals
in 281 appearances and won three Premier League titles, three FA Cups, two
League Cups, two Community Shields and was a Champions League finalist, Cole
joined Roy Hodgson's Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer of 2010.
Earlier that summer, Cole had won the last of his 56 England caps at his
third World Cup – he had scored ten goals for his country.
After a difficult start to life on Merseyside, Cole spent the 2011/12 season
on loan at French side Lille but, after returning to Liverpool for the first
half of the following season, 31-year-old Joey returned to the Boleyn Ground
in early January 2013, signing for Sam Allardyce's Hammers on a free
transfer. He set up both goals on his second debut for the club as James
Collins scored twice in a 2-2 FA Cup third round draw with Manchester United
and scored himself in the 1-1 home draw with Q.P.R. and the 3-2 home defeat
to Tottenham.
Cole started the 2013/14 season with a bang, notching the Hammers' first
goal of the campaign in a 2-0 home win over Cardiff in August 2013 before
scoring in the 3-0 win over Fulham in November. His final goal for the
Hammers came in the 3-3 home draw with West Brom in late December 2013.
Cole's last appearance for West Ham came in the 2-0 defeat at Manchester
City in May 2014 and he left the club later that summer after his contract
expired, signing for Aston Villa. Cole had scored five goals in 37
appearances in his second spell in east London, taking his totals for the
Hammers to 18 goals in 187 matches.
Following a spell with Coventry, Cole, now 36, is currently playing for
Tampa Bay Rowdies in the USL, the second tier of the American soccer
pyramid.
Referee
Sunday's referee is Kevin Friend. The Leicester-based official has been
involved in top-flight matches since 2009 and took charge of the Hammers in
our historic 3-0 victory at Liverpool in August 2015. He sent off
Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho and West Ham's Mark Noble in that match at
Anfield, with the latter's dismissal rescinded on appeal.
Friend's Hammers appointments this season were in September for our 2-0 home
win over Huddersfield and, more recently, our 1-0 League Cup quarter-final
defeat at Arsenal in December. He also refereed our 1-0 home win over
Swansea last April. He is also remembered for the soft penalty he gifted
Hull in our 1-0 defeat at the KC Stadium in September 2013 when Joey O'Brien
was adjudged to have shoved Robbie Brady. Friend compounded the error by
later denying the Irons a clear penalty when Jake Livermore handled in the
area. Don't expect much from Friend in the way of handball decisions – he
also denied the Hammers a penalty in a match at Everton when Aaron
Cresswell's cross was handled by Seamus Coleman.
Possible line-ups
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is without David Luiz and Ethan Ampadu but
Thibaut Courtois, Davide Zappacosta, Ross Barkley and Pedro could all
return. The Blues could suffer back-to-back league defeats at Stamford
Bridge for the first time since November 2011.
David Moyes has yet to win a Premier League game away to Chelsea, drawing
six and losing eight of 14 top-flight matches at Stamford Bridge. The Scot
is without Sam Byram, Winston Reid, James Collins, Pedro Obiang, Michail
Antonio and Andy Carroll. Argentine midfielder Manuel Lanzini is a major
doubt but Chicharito should be available. A win would not just see West
Ham's first at Stamford Bridge since this preview's featured match in
September 2002 but would also complete the club's first league double over
Chelsea since that 2002/03 season.
Looking ahead to our next match against Stoke, Potters midfielder Joe Allen
is one yellow card away from missing the match in east London – Stoke host
Tottenham today.
Possible Chelsea XI: Courtois; Rudiger, Azpilicueta, Christensen; Moses,
Kante, Fabregas, Alonso; Willian, Hazard; Morata.
Possible West Ham United XI: Hart; Zabaleta, Rice, Ogbonna, Cresswell,
Masuaku; Fernandes, Kouyate, Noble, Mario; Arnautovic.
Enjoy the game – Up The Hammers!
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Jose Mourinho labelled Marko Arnautovic childish and Gary Neville said the
Austrian thinks he is Cristiano Ronaldo… but the £24m 'flop' has turned into
a West Ham talisman
Marko Arnautovic has become crucial for West Ham after a poor start in
London
He cost a club record £24million, but failed to score or assist under Slaven
Bilic
Under David Moyes, Arnautovic has nine goals and three assists in 16 starts
By Kieran Gill for MailOnline
PUBLISHED: 08:06, 7 April 2018 | UPDATED: 08:06, 7 April 2018
In David Moyes' first week as West Ham manager, one of his first orders of
business was to schedule a meeting with floundering Marko Arnautovic at
their Rush Green training ground. The Austria international may have thought
it would be something of a get-to-you-know with the new gaffer but instead,
it came closer to a telling off. Moyes told him he has 'power', 'pace', all
the tools to frighten defenders and yet he had not been using them under
Slaven Bilic, and then came the warning. Arnautovic was told that, just
because he cost a club record £24million, he was not immune to being
benched. Five months on from that meeting, he is now the first name on the
team sheet. The statistics display the difference. Under Bilic, he failed to
score a single goal or achieve an assist. Under Moyes, he has now scored
nine and has set up three in 16 starts. The 28-year-old's start to life at
the London Stadium suggested it was not money well spent. Given the scrutiny
on West Ham, supporters did not want to wait for their star signing to come
good.
ARNAUTOVIC SPRINTS PER 90 MINUTES
Under Slaven Bilic: 50.5
Under David Moyes: 62.7
DISTANCE RUN PER 90 MINUTES
Under Slaven Bilic: 10.3km
Under David Moyes: 10.4km
A few quick-to-judge fans branded him a 'flop' while Gary Neville said in
October: 'That guy is [Cristiano] Ronaldo in his own mind. That's the
problem. He thinks he is better than he is.' His first few months in claret
and blue were no picnic but now, he is starting to perform like a player
worthy of his price tag. Maybe not Ronaldo-esque, but enough to keep West
Ham heads above water in the Premier League at least. Jose Mourinho once
described Arnautovic as having the 'attitude of a child' after their time
together at Inter Milan. He was even said to be more badly behaved than
Mario Balotelli. The West Ham attacker can still show signs of immaturity,
such as his reckless red card against Southampton at the start of this
season for a dangerous and deliberate elbow. Yet that was under Bilic. Under
Moyes, Arnautovic appears to have channelled his anger. Bilic was sacked on
November 6, having had almost four months to work with the Austrian. In that
time, the £24m signing from Stoke did not contribute in front of goal. Not
at all. Arnautovic's first strike for the club did not arrive until December
9 but it led to a 1-0 win over Chelsea at the London Stadium.
ARNAUTOVIC STATS
Under Slaven Bilic: 0 goals, 0 assists, 0% conversion rate
Under David Moyes: 9 goals, 3 assists, 19.57% conversion rate
SHOTS PER GAME
Under Slaven Bilic: 0.71 shots (0.14 on target)
Under David Moyes: 2.71 shots (1.47 on target)
Now on Sunday, he will travel to Stamford Bridge in the greatest form of his
career, hoping to repeat the trick and force Antonio Conte further against
the ropes.
When Moyes was appointed, he promised to take no prisoners. 'If you do not
run, you do not play,' the new West Ham manager warned at his very first
press conference. Arnautovic listened. Under Bilic, he averaged 51 sprints a
game and was constantly glued to the left wing. Under Moyes, he is averaging
63 and has license to drift inside. Naturally, it means he is now covering
more ground as he currently averages a distance of 10.4km and has gone from
attempting one dribble to at least three a game. Moyes took the leash off
Arnautovic, who may have started to feel like a caged animal under Bilic.
That is what West Ham's boss hinted on Friday. 'He didn't have much
confidence when I arrived in November,' Moyes said. 'He has a great ability,
is powerful, quick, got a level of arrogance and self-belief on the pitch.'
The Scot said he puts Arnautovic's turnaround down to 'tough love' and it
has worked. Under Bilic then Moyes, his shots per game have gone from 0.71
to 2.71, and those on target from 0.14 to 1.47. Arnautovic may have driven
Mourinho mad in Italy and did little to impress the likes of Neville at
first, but he is now West Ham's talisman and leading their fight for
survival.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Marcus Browne can replace Michail Antonio to solve David Moyes' problems and
secure survival the West Ham way
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United still have some work to do to secure their Premier League
survival and losing Michail Antonio for the rest of the season is a big
blow. West Ham were dragged back into the thick of the relegation battle
after a string of woeful performances and results. That culminated in pitch
invasions and protests from fans against the board over the way the club is
run and what they feel are broken promises over transfer spending, ambition
and the controversial move to the London Stadium. But what a difference a
week has made for David Moyes after they turned in one of their best
performances for two seasons to see off relegation rivals Southampton 3-0
last time out. They say never change a winning team but Moyes has no choice
for the trip to wounded Chelsea on Sunday with key man Michail Antonio ruled
out for the season. Moyes has already bemoaned the lack of pace at his
disposal in the West Ham squad as one of his biggest issues when it comes to
grinding out the wins needed to secure survival. And now he will have to
make do without one of his quickest stars after Antonio's injury and with
some work still to do to get the points on the board to stay up. But the
answer to Moyes' problems could be right under his nose in the shape of
young star Marcus Browne. The winger impressed once again for the club's
Under 23s in Thursday night's win over Manchester City scoring a wonder
free-kick in a 1-0 win.
Browne has tasted first team action before in Europa League qualifying under
Slaven Bilic and is blessed with electric pace and skill but suffered a
setback in his progress due to injury. He has been in superb form since
returning to the fold this season, though, and his stunning free-kick and
all round man of the match display against City has Hammers fans purring and
calling for him to be given a first team chance. Antonio's injury could be
the perfect chance for Browne and given the club's proud history of
promoting young talent, Moyes should look to youth in line with the West Ham
way.
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